Chapter 351 - Teasing The Goddess
“Boom!” With a deafening noise, the ancient rune immediately became stretched as the runes on the Pillar of Life entered it in order to solve the profound mysteries contained within. This scene resembled that of the opening of an ancient treasure.
With this, the pillar became even brighter, and it even underwent an incredible change. Not long later, due to being channeled by the pillar, the rune became a profound truth and disappeared inside the pillar as all of its mystical meanings were absorbed.
After the successful absorption, Li Qiye’s body suddenly vibrated as he felt an inexpressibly wonderful feeling!
Eventually, he took a deep breath and smiled. This feeling was great since he understood the Void Gate even more at this moment!
Mei Suyao watched as Li Qiye sucked the ancient rune into his Fate Palace. She could only gently sigh; one wrong move lost her the entire match.
However, Mei Suyao was still a peerless individual so she smiled and congratulated Li Qiye: “Congratulation, Brother Li. You are the first to obtain the three young leaves from the World Tree, and you even obtained the ancient rune from the Void Gate. This time, you have gotten creations far beyond that of what Immortal Emperor Hao Hai found.”
Li Qiye laughed and then stared at Mei Suyao in an imposing manner: “Now, how should I deal with you? Ruthlessly pluck the flower?”
At this point, his eyes narrowed as he said in a serious manner: “But to you, dying is not the worst fate. How about I strip off your clothes? Or maybe I should eat you, then imprison your True Fate and confine your body? Maybe this would be the most terrible thing for you.”
Mei Suyao’s expression slightly changed, but her sacred and noble grace remained. An immortal light encompassed Mei Suyao as if she was a transcendent goddess from the heavens; no one would dare to taint her.
She then slowly said: “Brother Li is a hero of the contemporary times, the exemplar of our generation. I’m sure you would be opposed to doing something so vulgar?”
The calm voice carried a mysterious rhythm. Although she was confined by Li Qiye at this moment, her aura prevented others from having dirty and disrespectful thoughts towards her. Only thoughts of reverence would remain.
“Little Girl, you really don’t know life from death!” Li Qiye focused his gaze as it became extremely frightening. In the blink of an eye, Li Qiye’s True Fate floated up and down as if it was about to open an ancient portal that would extend to everlastingness.
He had completely changed. He now showed a pair of eyes that gave the impression that he would devour the nine heavens and ten earths. Before his eyes, all in this world became trivial; the heaven and earth was meaningless and all existences were mere dogs!
Before his eyes, everything changed. There was no longer a distinction between beautiful and ugly nor rich and poor. What was considered sacred and pure all became smoke dissipating in the sky.
Mei Suyao was horrified. She was not only smart but also someone amazing in this generation. In this instant, she understood what was considered to be real danger, ferocity, arrogance, and cruelty. All the prodigies, geniuses, brutes — all were trivial before Li Qiye’s sudden change of persona.
She felt that she was stripped naked to her bare jade-like body. And it was not just her body, she even felt that her True Fate and soul were laid bare before his eyes.
Right now, a goddess, a heaven’s proud daughter like Mei Suyao became a lamb that was helpless in the face of slaughter, and Li Qiye was the most terrifying butcher this world had seen across the ages.
His gaze could devour all things in this domain. Right now, he was the heavens. He indifferently and emotionlessly said: “Girl, you are still so naive. You still want to use the Alaya Dao to influence me at this moment?”
“You want to become sacred so that others would not dare to taint you, but you cannot affect me. Instead, you are simply asking for trouble.”
“Today, I’ll let you have a taste of fear!” Li Qiye spoke like a ruler from the heavens above as his hands reached into her dress.
“Don’t—” Mei Suyao shouted out in shock. Despite all of her peerless qualities, she was unable to stop Li Qiye’s approach.
Li Qiye’s large hands grabbed her twin peaks and carefully played with them as Mei Suyao quivered. She closed off her mind and tried to retain her firm heart, but Li Qiye’s devilish eyes seemed to be imprisoning her soul and mind!
Under the caress of his untiring hands, the beautiful pair of breasts felt as supreme as Mei Suyao’s appearance. A bit more was too large, but a bit less was too small. The breasts that were being caressed by Li Qiye’s hands were the most perfect masterpiece in this world; they would garner countless gasps of admiration!
At this moment, Mei Suyao was frightened with a strange feeling. As a venerated goddess, no one had dared to even come close to her, let alone touch her in such a licentious manner.
As the representative of the Eternal River School, her dao heart was as firm as a stone. Worldly feelings, such as the seven emotions and six desires, could not affect Mei Suyao. The mundane world was like a river flowing by a talc stone; her heart would not be tainted in the slightest.
But at this time, her heart was filled with turbulent waves; her True Fate was imprisoned and her heart had fallen. In this moment, the seven emotions and six desires were affecting her dao heart.
After playing with them carefully, Li Qiye’s hands slid further down which made Mei Suyao’s heart quiver with ripples. A strange and numbing feeling caused her mind to flutter.
“No!” Mei Suyao screamed in a panic. This was the biggest crisis she had ever faced in her life. Death was nothing to her; instead, having her dao heart struck down by Li Qiye would be the worst possible outcome!
The always sacred and transcending Mei Suyao, at this moment, appeared to be quite delicate and pitifully lovable.
While she was lost in horror, Li Qiye withdrew his hands. He then patted his hands together with a disinterested expression. Then, he fixed Mei Suyao’s dress together for her and casually released her from the imprisonment.
The horrified Mei Suyao suddenly became lost in a daze for a long time. Li Qiye imprisoned her True Fate so if he kept on attacking, her dao heart would not be able to hold out as she descended into debauchery. However, Li Qiye’s sudden retreat left her confused for she couldn’t see through him.
“Don’t stand there in a trance. I am not someone who shows mercy to women, especially enemies.” Li Qiye casually spoke: “I’m not taking you because I was just bored of the dry task. If I wanted women, then even if they were the fairies of the nine heavens, I could still make them submit and hurl their bodies into my embrace! Even though I don’t mind forcefully taking someone, but you? You are not at the level that would force me to do so. If I take you forcefully, then that would drop my fine taste by several grades…”
Li Qiye’s words almost caused Mei Suyao to vomit blood. She didn’t know whether this anger stemmed from embarrassment or shame because there were countless overwhelming feelings running rampant in her heart.
“Little Girl, I have a lot of different methods to employ if I wanted to take you in. I can make you willingly stay by my side as a maid so there is no need for force.” Li Qiye leisurely said: “However, I don’t have such a twisted hobby. Instead, I am someone with fine taste. Forcefully taking you would only be a smear on my record. Then, in this case, wouldn’t I be the victim here?”
In the end, Mei Suyao could only bitterly smile. No matter how pure and transcendent she was, it was impossible for her to remain calm. She didn’t care about external appearances, but she was still extremely confident in her beauty and charm.
With her rare features and temperament, she was absolutely an unparalleled genius in the contemporary times. It was not a stretch to call her the number one beauty in the Eastern Hundred Cities.
Countless people adored her, and countless geniuses did not mind traversing millions of miles just to follow her.
To them, just to see her smile would be the biggest harvest of their lives.
However, Li Qiye’s words had twisted it all around. After taking advantage of her, he actually said that he was the victim. Was there any justice in this world?
“Don’t feel so indignant.” Li Qiye glanced at her and said: “It is not easy for the Eternal River School to train an inheritor like you, so out of consideration for your ancestor, I will give you a little warning. If you make a move on me again, I will strip you and sell you to a far away place, understand?”
The urge to vomit blood rose inside Mei Suyao. When did she want to make a move against Li Qiye? It sounded as if she was the perverted woman who wanted to take advantage of him!
“Bang—bang—bang—” At this time, the Void Gate suddenly rocked back and forth. Its light became faint as cracks began to form.
“So in the end, it is still going to collapse.” Li Qiye looked at the gate and murmured.
“Boom!” The Void Gate suddenly cracked and instantly broke apart. At this time, no matter if they were in the timeless portal or on the World Tree, or even in the strange space inside the Void Gate, all were blown away.
The timeless portal was the next to collapse as everything disappeared.
Chapter 352 - Saving the Realm God
Everyone was stunned; they didn’t know what was going on so they could only stand still. The moment they regained their minds, they were already standing inside the Heavenly Dao Academy.
Many of them had been digging in full swing while others were in other dimensions to study the mysterious grand dao on the World Tree, yet they were suddenly ejected from their respective locations inside the timeless portal! No one was exempt from this sudden and confusing ejection.
“What happened?” Many people looked at each other and couldn’t help but ask. However, no one could give a definite answer.
At this point, many people turned crazy from indignation. Just a moment ago, they were excitedly digging to see if they could find a supreme treasure, so how could they not become enraged from this sudden eviction?
However, whether it was anger and craziness, it was meaningless at this time because the timeless portal had already collapsed.
Sudden roars and unwilling howls resounded inside the academy. One student angrily shouted: “Oh Heaven, give me back my jade pond! I only saw it and didn’t get to bathe in it!”
“Motherf*cker, my heavenly compass! I only got to dig halfway and didn’t get it out in time!” Another crazily screamed.
“Good Heavens! Are you messing with me? I finally managed to get in and had only just started to climb the World Tree, yet you already kicked me out? I’m going to die from anger!” A descendant from a great power blurted out his unwillingness.
In just a short moment, countless cries that were capable of garnering sympathy resounded in the academy. Some were in tears, and a few people were truly too pitiful!
Li Qiye and Mei Suyao landed at the top of a peak since they were also ejected. Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and spoke without any surprise: “Void Gate, I shall await the day when you open again.”
Mei Suyao simply stood to the side without saying anything. Although she was still outside of the mundane boundary with her holiness, she now wore a tint of unnaturalness.
“Cultivate more diligently.” Li Qiye glanced at her and said: “Don’t waste your time with these kinds of things all day. Although your starting point is not wrong, being a saintess is not suitable for you, and it is especially not suitable for the Alaya Heavenly Fragrant Dao. Immortal Emperor Xiu Shui didn’t leave behind this divine technique so that her descendants could run around to be saintesses! If you don’t change your ways, you will one day find that you have already ruined your chance at reaching the apex!”
Mei Suyao looked back at him. Her lips trembled as if she wanted to say something, but at this time, a thunderous explosion suddenly emerged as the Heavenly Dao Academy shook while the earth began to crack.
“Not good.” Li Qiye became serious and said. He ignored Mei Suyao and disappeared into the depths of the academy.
Mei Suyao could only silently gaze at Li Qiye’s back as he departed. Eventually, she sighed softly and floated away.
“Rumble!” The academy quaked here and there with cracks appearing all over the earth. The mountains were collapsing the rivers began to dry.
Not only did those who were expelled from the portal become alarmed, many experts of the great powers outside were also startled.
“Could it be that the collapse of the timeless portal destabilized the academy?” A person jumped from being frightened and immediately fled from the academy. What if the academy also broke down like the timeless portal? Then all of them would have to die a miserable death here.
However, some great characters also thought about a different matter.
“Could it be that the divine protector of the academy can no longer hold on?” One of them spoke as a glimmer appeared in his eyes.
Before this, there was a rumor that the divine protector of the academy had succumbed to its inner demon and was about to destroy the academy. This news created huge waves, resulting in many people scheming against the academy.
What happened afterward was known to everyone. The academy destroyed the alliance’s plan and killed all of their troops. Along with the loss of three Immortal Emperor Life Treasures, eleven old undyings died inside the academy.
The plotting alliance suffered heavy losses from this battle. They gave away a bride and also lost their army on top of it. 1
Later on, many people speculated that the news claiming that the Realm God’s inner demon going berserk was just a huge trap to bait the snakes to leave their nests. It was so that those with malicious intents would jump down.
This sudden occurrence made people think about what happened last year. Could it be that the Realm God really couldn’t make it?
Some were quite suspicious, but no one dared to make a move, such as entering the academy for espionage. The alliance’s fate was an unforgettable example!
With such a painful lesson constantly reminding them, none of the lineages wished to cross the academy’s boundary at this moment.
“Thank the heavens, you are finally back. Just in time. If you arrived several days later, we definitely wouldn’t be able to hold on any longer. The ancestor has personally taken action.” Old Daoist Peng heaved a sigh of relief after seeing Li Qiye.
Li Qiye looked up above and saw a jade-like hand holding an immortal lotus flower above the enormous dwelling of the Realm God. The immortal lotus poured down countless drops of holy dew that were capable of calming the minds of people. The vegetation became lush once more as if spring had arrived. Everything was thriving!
“Magu came into being?” Seeing the hand holding the lotus, Li Qiye said while being visibly moved.
Old Daoist Peng shook his head and answered: “The ancestor has not left the Everlasting Courtyard. Venerable Ancestor woke up because the Realm God’s situation had become worse despite us using secret weapons to suppress it. We were no longer able to bear it these last few days, but the ancestor suddenly came to the rescue.”
At this time, the old men from the academy firmly remained in their posts, but they were dispirited and fatigued. There was no doubt that calming down the Realm God took a lot of their strength.
“Was it a success?” Old Daoist Peng’s heart was hanging on a thread as he asked Li Qiye. He didn’t want to hear bad news because if Li Qiye was unsuccessful, then the matter regarding the Realm God would become completely hopeless.
“Indeed, we shall go in.” Li Qiye answered and then immediately rushed in.
Old Daoist Peng was overjoyed as he followed right behind Li Qiye while exhaling breath of relief. This could be the best news for the academy that he had heard within the last two years.
Once Li Qiye entered the Realm God’s dwelling, he found that this place had become even more desolate. The entire earth was scorched with lava everywhere like the end of the world has come.
“If we can’t make it, then I’m afraid the billions of miles of our academy will turn into ruins.” Old Daoist Peng bitterly said.
Li Qiye calmly said: “Frankly speaking, your academy brought this upon itself. You should have made a choice earlier; either find the right time for the Realm God to die or let it go back. Unfortunately, your academy used all of its heavenly treasures and immortal essence to prolong its life.”
“The Realm God has been rooted in your ancestral vein, but one day, it will no longer be able to bear it! If it cannot maintain control of itself, then the result would be an explosion. All of you can imagine the consequences at that time!”
Old Daoist Peng could only awkwardly smile at Li Qiye’s scolding. The academy understood this very well. The Realm God shouldn’t have lived until now. Because of the academy’s efforts in prolonging its lifespan, it caused the Realm God to be embedded within the academy’s vein.
The Realm God once said that it will be problematic in the future if it was rooted in the vein, but how could the academy let its invincible divine protector die from old age? With its protection, it meant that no one could touch the academy. Even a living Immortal Emperor would find it difficult.
The Realm God, in its pine tree form, was dying when Li Qiye arrived to its rooted location. Its condition was much more serious than what it had been during their last meeting. Its entire body was now burnt to a black crisp as if it was struck by thunder; the flames were still blazing!
“Begin.” Li Qiye took a deep breath and said.
Old Daoist Peng didn’t dare to be careless as he quickly took out a treasure bowl. Li Qiye poured the already-prepared medicine into the bowl and carefully took out a box to take out a young leaf from the World Tree.
The moment he took it out, a majestic and endless vitality appeared. This leaf was filled with youth that would cause others to feel as if they were a thousand years younger just be breathing in this fresh scent.
“A young leaf from the World Tree! Legends state that only three of them would come into being every time the World Tree appears. It is a priceless and unique treasure.”
Li Qiye carefully placed this young leaf into the medicine bowl. Then, he took out a drop of Myriad Star Water from inside a bottle.
In the past, Li Qiye turned an Immortal Writ into a cup capable of storing the Myriad Star Water. Later on, he went to the War God Temple to take away an actual bottle capable of storing the water.
“Myriad Star Water!” Old Daoist Peng became breathless after seeing this drop of water. Even one drop would be craved by Immortal Emperors; it was something rarely seen in this world. He wanted to see just how much Li Qiye had, but unfortunately, Li Qiye already put it away before he had the chance to find out.
Chapter 353 - Realm God’s Recovery
Once the Myriad Star droplet fell onto the World Tree’s young leaf, the leaf began to slowly melt into medicine.
“Rumble!” At this time, the old daoist raised the treasure bowl up high as it spewed out immortal water — like a spring — onto the pine tree body of the Realm God.
At this time, the blackened pine tree emitted sounds that resonated with the dao. The initially dead branches began to send down orderly divine chains — like little waterfalls — that began to siphon the medicine very quickly.
As this siphoning process continued, the blackened layer of bark began to slowly change. It was peeling like a snake shedding its skin.
The pine tree drank more and more medicine, and the changes became even greater. Eventually, all of its blackened bark fell down as new leaves appeared while the old branches emitted a renewed vitality.
Finally, all of the medicine was absorbed by the Realm God. Now, a lush, verdant pine tree appeared before Li Qiye and the old daoist. No one would ever think that this old pine tree was the invincible Realm God.
“Boom!” With a blast, the pine tree shot out endless green lights into the sky. The green lights were filled with life, just like the ocean, as it encompassed the entire academy.
Many people were amazed at the green brilliance up in the sky. They were enveloped in this feeling as if they were just a drop of water amidst the vast sea.
Outside of the academy, even amongst the vast territories of the Eastern Hundred Cities, countless people felt this boundless vitality at this moment.
Underground, countless pairs of eyes opened as sealed old undyings awakened from their slumbers.
In this moment, many powerful existences felt this endless vitality that was capable of covering the entire domain emanate from the academy.
“The Realm God!!” At this moment, numerous people were shaken with fear. They all had shocked expressions no matter how strong they were.
The invincible Realm God — these were not just empty words. The Realm God and the Calamity God were the two great gods of the Mortal Emperor World. They did not need to be bestowed titles because they deserved the titles of True Gods!
“Is this a ritual to renew one’s vitality?” An old undying who was buried underground murmured as he felt the inexhaustible vitality.
If the Realm God obtained a renewed life, then who in this world could touch the academy? Even Immortal Emperors would not be successful.
“Rumble!” At this time, a heaven-changing development occurred at the academy as the cracked earth began to come together. The broken rivers began to flow again, and the collapsed mountains rose once more…
It was as if the earth itself was being rebuilt. Such an invincible power horrified others, and experts felt their legs giving out before this unraveling scene.
Destroying mountains and rivers was not difficult for great characters. However, changing the earth or rebuilding the world was something only Godkings, True Gods, and the legendary Immortal Emperors were capable of!
The Realm God’s dwelling changed its appearance completely. The scorched earth that spanned thousands of miles had now been rebuilt along with the other geographical features and vegetation.
Seeing this scene, Li Qiye stated with some feelings: “This is not only due to the great power of the Realm God, the peerless ancestral vein found underground also played a huge role. This ancestral vein is the origin of a huge amount of heavenly essences. Who would not want such a vein?”
It was not just mere words when people said that the Realm God could defend the academy against Immortal Emperors. However, it was not due to just its own power. The magicalness of the ancestral vein greatly contributed to this!
As long the Realm God’s real body did not leave the ancestral vein, even Immortal Emperors personally taking action wouldn’t be enough to destroy the academy.
This was the reason why so many different people since time immemorial lusted after the academy’s ancestral vein. It was because this vein accumulated so much heavenly essence in the Mortal Emperor World. Anyone who established their sect above this vein would allow for future generations to enjoy this benefit for countless generations!
“Okay, we shall leave so that the Realm God can rest.” After seeing the satisfactory end of his business, Li Qiye told the old daoist.
“Umm… Hehe, maybe it is time for you to return the Karmic Flame Scissors to our academy?” The old daoist rubbed his hands together and gleefully smiled.
Li Qiye looked at him with one eye and nonchalantly said: “Oh? Why are you so alarmed? One can say that this time, your academy has greatly benefited. The Realm God absorbed so much vitality from the World Tree! If the Realm God cannot personally absorb all of it, then it will be channeled back to the ancestral vein. Not to mention, the Realm God was also saved.”
Old Daoist Peng rubbed his hands as he smilingly said: “Hehe, of course… Our academy is very grateful towards Young Noble Li.” Then he awkwardly continued on: “But that is a different matter, right? This old daoist had patted my chest confidently before my brothers and guaranteed that…”
After seeing the old daoist’s appearance, Li Qiye laughed and threw the treasure box that contained the Karmic Flame Scissors to him.
“Take it, I was just joking with you. If I wanted the academy’s treasures, I would not have picked the scissors. To me, if I wanted to take something, then it has to be something on the level of the Chaos Cauldron or something from the Emperor Era Hall. In fact, I would take all of them. Such an ordinary pair of Karmic Flame Scissors is not worth it for me to act unreasonably. That would be an affront to my character.” Having said that, Li Qiye rubbed his chin while revealing a contemplative look.
This remark froze the old daoist’s expression. Eventually, he responded with a mirthless smile: “Hahaha! Young Noble’s jokes are too funny. My academy is only a small place, so how could we get into the sight of Young Noble?”
Li Qiye glanced at the old daoist and said in a relaxed manner: “Not necessarily. Maybe when the Void Gate opens again, I will have to borrow a few secret weapons of the academy to use.”
This made the old daoist’s scalp tingle. Although the academy was indeed powerful, Li Qiye gave him a strange feeling as if the academy could not suppress him!
“Don’t worry, if I borrow your treasures, then I will return them in a timely manner so that it wouldn’t be difficult to borrow more in the future.” Li Qiye said with a laugh.
The old daoist busily smiled back to meet Li Qiye’s banter: “Yes, yes, giving them back after borrowing them will make future transactions easier. My academy will definitely try our best to help you. Young Noble Li, since the Void Gate was brought up, I have a question that I have been wanting to ask you. I hope you will dispel my confusion.” With that, the old daoist assumed an appearance that was thirsty for knowledge.
Li Qiye shook his head and smilingly answered: “You really know how to push the matter. Wait until that day, then we can talk about it again. Right now, I don’t know anything.” Finished speaking, Li Qiye turned around and left.
The old daoist couldn’t do anything about it, so he could only smile. He knew that Li Qiye knew something about the Void Gate, but Li Qiye didn’t want to tell anyone.
Old Daoist Peng and the academy did not know a lot about the Void Gate. How could the academy not be tempted by one of the Nine Grand Heavenly Treasures? Many wise sages from the academy researched it, but they all came back defeated without any results.
The party ended after the timeless portal’s collapse. The calamity of the academy was over, so it began to welcome back the students who were previously evacuated.
Many young cultivators from all over the world left with their seniors and sects, and many students also left since they only came for the timeless portal and not to beseech the dao. Now that the party was over, they made their way back home.
However, there were also a large number of disciples from the great sects that decided to stay at the academy.
Some were happy and some were sad now that the timeless portal event was over. Some were successful while others lamented with grief. Nevertheless, this event had changed many people, especially those young cultivators with humble beginnings. After obtaining their own fortune, their fate had changed and some would tread on the long and unending path of the dao.
Of course, this sort of thing was not uncommon. The timeless portal of the academy had opened many times across the numerous generations and had changed the fate of many people!
However, some matters were far from over, such as the unknown Void Gate. Although the younger crowd did not know about it, they told the story to the big characters and ancestors in their sects after they returned. Those who knew bits and scraps about the gate were shocked and started to inquire about this matter.
Something from the legends actually appeared, so how could these big shots not be moved?
Only four people made it to the space of the Void Gate, and they were Li Qiye, Mei Suyao, Jikong Wudi, and Zi Cuining. However, Zi Cuining and Jikong Wudi fought right outside of the gate.
Chapter 354 - Everyone’s Creations
At this time, many people speculated that the creations inside the Void Gate were obtained by either Mei Suyao or Li Qiye, and it most likely had something to do with the timeless portal’s collapse.
After the timeless portal event was over, Mei Suyao left the academy and went back, alone, to the Eternal River School. Her actions incited even more suspicion and guesses from the great powers.
Many assumed that Mei Suyao obtained a great creation that had a great connection to the Void Gate.
The majority did not dare to ask due to fear from the Eternal River School’s strength. However, there were those who did not give up and used different methods in order to obtain more information, especially the old undyings.
Li Shuangyan and the other girls also returned safely along with many Cleansing Incense disciples who were kicked out from the timeless portal.
After the event was over, Li Qiye didn’t let the Cleansing Incense disciples nor the Nine Saint disciples stay behind in the Eastern Hundred Cities. This was not the territory of their sects, so Li Qiye told the academy to open a dao portal so that the disciples could return. Only Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao stayed behind by his side.
This trip to the World Tree left all of them with creations; the most excited was Little Autumn. It came back and immediately chattered the moment it saw Li Qiye: “Holy shit, I can’t take it anymore. I will go back to my realm to hibernate.” Having said that, it immediately faded away into nothingness.
Its entire body was golden as if it was wearing a suit of armor. Others couldn’t tell that it was a worm at all!
Li Qiye nodded his head and understood that Little Autumn had obtained a great creation. It was like a carp leaping over the dragon gate. It was a qualitative leap forward in its quintessential essence.
Sikong Toutian did not come back to see Li Qiye. Rumor has it that after being blown out of the timeless portal, he didn’t have time to put on a disguise so others recognized him. A group of experts from the Eastern Hundred Cities chased him out of the academy.
Li Qiye could only shake his head after hearing this message. This little brat stole and swindled from everyone all over the place, and he even dug up the ancestral graves of others. One day, Sikong Toutian would definitely fall into the hands of others.
Bing Yuxia also came back to say goodbye along with Ye Chuyun from the Pure Lotus School.
Bing Yuxia looked at Li Qiye and arrogantly declared: “Little Demon, I found a great creation so I will go into secluded meditation now. Wait until I come out. Then, I will definitely put you down so bad that you would not be able to enter the reincarnation cycle!”
“Pat!” Li Qiye slapped her fragrant butt in place of an answer. Then, he said with a smile: “You want to put me down? In your lifetime, it is out of the question. Next time when you meet me, you better be wearing female clothing, or else I will strip you!”
After being teased by Li Qiye, Bing Yuxia angrily glared and left in annoyance. Compared to Bing Yuxia’s arrogance, Ye Chuyun was much more gentle and considerate. Before leaving, she especially invited Li Qiye to the Pure Lotus School as a guest.
Another notable thing was that the Lion’s Roar Gate left overnight, so it was too late to say goodbye. Chi Xiaodie never met her grandfather, she only got a message from another disciple.
Li Qiye planned to meet with Chi Xiaodie’s grandfather, but he lost the chance due to their sudden evacuation. It turned out that Chi Xiaodao also obtained a sizable creation inside the timeless portal. The Lion’s Roar Royal Lord was afraid of being followed so he took Chi Xiaodao and a group of disciples to secretly leave overnight.
After all, in the royal lord’s eyes, the gate was still very weak. If anyone wished to steal Chi Xiaodao’s creation, the gate would not be able to protect him, so this triggered the secret overnight evacuation.
Li Shuangyan, Chen Baojiao, and Chi Xiaodie stayed behind along with Li Qiye in the academy. They had no immediate plans to leave.
This trip granted the three of them quite a harvest; each of them found a creation.
Li Shuangyan obtained a treasure crown cast from a mysterious ice, so she gave it to Li Qiye for a look.
After a careful observation, Li Qiye commented: “Amazing. Rather than calling it a crown, it is more of a supreme offensive ice dao. It is not a treasure, and it would be more accurate to call it an accumulation formed by the grand dao. This thing is very appropriate for you, but it will depend on you to extract its future potential.”
Li Shuangyan smiled like an apricot in full bloom. She was not excited and maintained a calm posture that was very lovable. Since she had followed Li Qiye for so long, she became infected with his style and seemed to never be surprised no matter the situation — always calm and composed.
Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao were different regarding this matter. Chen Baojiao was a strong and competitive girl. During her time at the Jewel Pillar Sacred School, she was quite unhappy despite being a noble and supreme beauty. However, after following Li Qiye, she became a lot more spirited. To her, even if the sky were to fall down, Li Qiye would shoulder it. Thus, she became a lot more vivacious.
Chen Baojiao obtained a great creation from the World Tree in the form of a technique. After checking it out, Li Qiye spoke words of praise: “This thing will pave your future path; whether you want to follow the path of the heavens or the path of the grand era, it will be up to you.”
“Can I really pick either one?” Chen Baojiao emotionally asked. She desperately and earnestly trained more than anyone else, but her talents were weaker compared to Li Shuangyan, so after hearing Li Qiye’s words, how could she not become emotional? 1
Li Qiye laughed and gently tapped her head: “Do you not believe in yourself and your Young Noble? With the grand dao I have taught you along with your Tyrannical Immortal Spring Physique, as long as your dao heart remains firm and you practice hard, it would not be difficult for you to walk on either path. This technique will only assist your future foundation to become more stable. Even without it, you could still reach the peak.”
“Of course I trust Young Noble.” Chen Baojiao chuckled and said with an alluring charm. She was the sole reason for the phrase — a beauty is just like a disastrous flood for the kingdom and its citizens! 2
Chi Xiaodie obtained a grand dao inside the World Tree after she was transported to a place where an immortal voice was preaching the grand dao. After listening, a scripture formed within her mind.
After coming back, she quickly copied it down and consulted with Li Qiye so that he could help her. Compared to Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao, she clearly lacked self-confidence.
She was not to blame since she was extremely confident before in both her beauty and talents. But after following Li Qiye and broadening her horizons, she found that the world was vast and unimaginable; this mysterious place had left her in marvel. Before, she was only a royal canary in the Lion’s Roar Gate.
Despite having been subjected to this realization, she did not become discouraged and yearned for change. She put in even more effort to study the dao in order to follow Li Qiye’s footsteps. Her aspiration was to catch up to Li Qiye one day. Even if she could not walk with him shoulder to shoulder, she didn’t hope that she would stay in the same place as he trod further forward.
“This is not an ordinary dao, it is a divine dao! You’ve have found a great creation. As long as you push on forward, you will one day be bestowed the title of Godking just like your ancestor — someone comparable to True Gods! When that day comes, your achievement will be much greater than those fake gods.” Li Qiye perused Chi Xiaodie’s copy of her grand dao and praised.
Chi Xiaodie was extremely excited after hearing his praise. To her, nothing was comparable to praises from Li Qiye.
Finally, he corrected a thing or two for her along with explaining a few mysticisms, resulting in great benefits for her.
A divine dao as wonderful as this was nothing to Li Qiye. Throughout the ages, Li Qiye had seen too many grand dao; whether it was dao of Immortal Emperors, dao of the True Gods, or even mysterious grand dao from the Legendary Era, all had been read by him!
However, Chi Xiaodie’s visible effort and progress earned Li Qiye’s favor. If she still acted as a golden canary like before, then Li Qiye would not waste so much effort to teach her.
One tried her best to progress while the other happily taught her in hopes that she could reach the peak just like her ancestor, the Hundred Battles Godking.
Eventually, Zi Cuining also visited and met Li Qiye in a room with just the two of them.
She took a deep breath and solemnly took out a box. This box was locked up with a black dragon that occupied the space above.
Zi Cuining knew that this box was personally sealed by her ancestor, the Black Dragon King. Logically speaking, in this world, only her ancestor could unseal this box.
Li Qiye accepted the box and opened his Fate Palace to reveal his True Fate. Within his sea of memories, a ripple suddenly appeared. His eyes shot out two immortal lights onto the box. After this, the black dragon on the box suddenly came to life and coiled around Li Qiye’s arm.
“Zhang—zhang—zhang!” The black dragon turned into mantras, and all of the mantras wove together into a page of immortal scripture. Suddenly, this page entered Li Qiye’s sea of memories.
An immortal scripture emerged in his sea of memories, and a previously erased memory surfaced in its entirety.
Next, this scripture entered the depths of his mind. After absorbing this completed memory, Li Qiye’s mind held an incomparable tinge of emotion, causing him to softly sigh.
Chapter 355 - One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques
This heavenly immortal scripture was created after Li Qiye put in a countless amount of effort. It could be said that throughout the countless ages, after he obtained the Physique Scripture, he had always been trying to create an unprecedented miracle!
After millions of years of numerous attempts and research, he was finally successful with the Black Dragon King. He had created a miracle never-before-seen by anyone else.
“One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques!” Li Qiye gently sighed in his mind. Through years of arduous undertakings, he had finally created the most peerless immortal scripture in this world.
Seeing this scene, Zi Cuining couldn’t help but become stunned. She took out this box from the Little Sea Village and was quite surprised because it was personally sealed by her ancestor. The preciousness of the item inside could only be imagined.
But at this moment, the true value of this box was not with the item inside, it was within the black dragon seal. The box itself was only a ruse to fool others.
“Correct, this is the essential part.” Li Qiye noticed Zi Cuining’s thoughts and nodded his head: “Moreover, outside of your ancestor, only I can unseal this lock.”
“What is it?” Zi Cuining couldn’t help but ask.
Li Qiye didn’t directly answer her. He only smiled: “Throughout his life, what was your ancestor’s most powerful art?”
“The Heaven Protector Dao!” Zi Cuining immediately answered without any hesitation. In fact, her ancestor’s Heaven Protector Dao was feared by even Immortal Emperors!
“Wrong.” Li Qiye shook his head and said: “The Heaven Protector Dao is something your ancestor researched later on in order to leave behind something for his descendants. Your ancestor was invincible not because of his Heaven Protector Dao, but because of his dual Immortal Physiques!”
“Dual Immortal Physiques?” Upon hearing this, she became stunned for a moment. At this time, she suddenly realized something, but she did not dare to give it any more thought.
“That’s right, one body with two Immortal Physiques, two grand completion Immortal Physiques!” Li Qiye nodded his head and stated. One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques — this was the immortal scripture created by Li Qiye after he spent an eternity of research, and he used this scripture on the Black Dragon King.
“Impossible—” Zi Cuining uttered her thought. At the moment, she was aghast despite the fact that she had seen many miracles before!
Li Qiye revealed a wide smile and said: “But your ancestor made it possible! He was the only one across the ages to have dual grand completion Immortal Physiques — this was his pride!”
“This… How was it possible?” Zi Cuining was frozen for a while. One grand completion Immortal Physique was already unreachable. Legend states that a powerful Virtuous Paragon with a grand completion Immortal Physique could already oppose an Immortal Emperor.
What kind of existence was someone with dual Immortal Physiques? Since time immemorial, no one had ever heard of someone cultivating two different Immortal Physiques because it was an impossible matter due to having only one body!
“Your ancestor was a tyrant for three generations. Immortal Emperor Qian Li, Immortal Emperor Yin Tian, and later on, even Immortal Emperor Ta Kong’s Heaven’s Will was torn apart by your ancestor! Did you think your Heaven Protector Dao was enough to instill fear upon Immortal Emperors?” Li Qiye smilingly said.
The dazed Zi Cuining couldn’t say anything. Everyone knew that the Heaven’s Will was torn apart in that ultimate battle. It didn’t matter who won or lost because tearing apart the Heaven’s Will was already a marvel for the ages! Ask the heavens, who could actually accomplish such a deed?”
“Very few people know about this secret. Even only Gu Zun and a few others in your Heaven Protector City know about this!” Li Qiye nonchalantly said. 1
Zi Cuining calmed down and couldn’t help but gaze intensely at Li Qiye, then she asked: “How are you related to my ancestor?”
“I am not an illegitimate son of your ancestor nor am I a descendant sealed by him to come into being at this time.” Li Qiye smiled and knew that Zi Cuining would think that this was the case. He shook his head to say: “Your ancestor only loved one person throughout his entire life!”
Zi Cuining took a deep breath and was reluctant to ask about this mysterious matter that couldn’t be solved by anyone.
“Take out the Black Dragon Spear.” Li Qiye commanded.
Zi Cuining gave the Black Dragon Spear to Li Qiye without too much thought.
“Clankkk—” The Black Dragon Spear in Li Qiye’s hand turned into the Immortal’s Blood Spear.
Li Qiye stared at her and said: “You should understand something. You did not follow your ancestor’s Heaven Protector Dao at a young age because, on your path, the Heaven Protector Dao is but a leaf on a branch. Do you know why?”
“I heard that it was the will of the ancestor!” In fact, she didn’t understand why her ancestor declared her as the inheritor even though they were thirty thousand years apart. Could it be that the ancestor could divine the future?
Li Qiye simply smiled and didn’t reveal the truth. At this time, a ripple appeared in his mind as a universal law appeared on his forehead and shot out onto the Immortal’s Blood Spear.
A sanguine brilliance suddenly appeared on the spear. This brilliance and Li Qiye’s universal law came together and turned into an immortal rune that was engraved onto the spear’s body.
“Clank!” Li Qiye clapped his hands together, and the Immortal’s Blood Spear turned into the Black Dragon Spear once more. He returned it to Zi Cuining and then said: “The grand dao of the Immortal’s Blood Spear is the correct future path for you. One day, you will stand at the apex and be able to kill gods and devils! Carefully study it ah! When the day comes where you grow to such a level, if there are immortals in this world, then you shall be able to slay them!”
Having heard this, Zi Cuining couldn’t prevent herself from showing her astonishment. Killing immortals! These words were not just from the legends nor was it an exaggeration! After taking a deep breath, she asked with curiosity: “Why don’t you cultivate it?”
The Immortal’s Blood Spear was an unbeatable weapon and the path of immortal killing was the ultimate ferocious dao, but Li Qiye returned it to her! If it was someone else, surely they would have kept it for themselves.
Li Qiye stayed silent for a moment before he finally uttered: “I’ve grown weary!” One answer with multiple meanings, but it was not important whether Zi Cuining understood the implicit meanings or not.
This spear was stained with immortal blood throughout numerous massacres. The past was too heavy and Li Qiye didn’t want to remember it, thus he didn’t like keeping the spear by his side.
Zi Cuining put away the spear and silently left.
However, before she departed, Li Qiye asked: “How was your battle with Jikong Wudi.”
“He is indeed worthy of being Immortal Emperor Ta Kong’s descendant.” Zi Cuining answered: “It was a shame that before the victor could be determined, we were expelled from the space. He had already left when I landed outside. If we fight again, I will surely defeat him.”
“That is a matter of course.” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Your Immortal’s Blood Spear can even pierce the throat of an Immortal Emperor, so a mere descendant is nothing. Next time, use the Immortal’s Blood Spear instead of the Black Dragon Spear!”
Zi Cuining nodded her head and left. However, she was still staying at the Heavenly Dao Academy.
When it came to attracting attention, she was right behind Mei Suyao and Jikong Wudi. And after the two of them left the academy, Zi Cuining became the center of the limelight.
However, contrary to Mei Suyao and Jikong Wudi, Zi Cuining was a person who trod on a solitary path with a terrorizing aura, so no one dared to go near her.
Mei Suyao came into this world to cultivate and preach the dao. It could be said that wherever she went, such places became lively.
Jikong Wudi had the will to rule this world so he purposefully recruited many followers. His path always had the presence of a great force.
However, Zi Cuining trod alone. Anyone who wanted to get close would become breathless from her aura. Her title suited her very well. 2
Outside of meeting with Li Qiye, she rarely showed herself during her stay at the academy.
Although she was arrogant, no one dared to mess with her. Not to mention the younger generation, even the great lineages wouldn’t want to mess with the Heaven Protector City.
After Zi Cuining left, Li Qiye stayed in his room to meditate. His six palaces appeared to form a domain led by the master palace.
His True fate inside the master palace was like the tyrant of this domain — noble and unreachable as it encompassed these nine heavens. It could be said that within his domain, this True Fate was the pinnacle of all existences, and its one thought was capable of deciding life and death.
The dao foundation built by the Kun Peng’s Six Variants was majestic and boundless. Sometimes, it would turn into an immortal citadel, a divine palace, or a gigantic Kun Peng. It flew around and protected the True Fate.
This was different from the previous dao foundation. Universal laws became divine orders that were able to create a divine world and channel the ultimate profundity of myriad dao.
The more shocking matter was that this dao foundation was filled with primordial energy as if it was created before the formation of the heaven and earth. This dao foundation was much more perfect and mystical. It showed the signs of becoming one; it was as if Li Qiye’s grand dao was also turning into one solitary truth that was without any flaws or defects.
This dao foundation did not look like it was created after the heavens, but more like it was naturally formed. Anyone would be shocked after seeing such a dao foundation.
No matter how great a genius was, they would have certain flaws when cultivating on the path to the grand dao. In the end, the grand dao was long and arduous, and no one could guarantee that a problem would not occur.
The teaser tonight is the title along with one phrase.
Li Qiye remained silent for a moment before answering: “I’ve grown weary.”
Chapter 356 - One Body Two Physiques
However, Li Qiye’s dao foundation strived for perfection. No one was more experienced than him regarding cultivation since he had trained numerous invincible characters, including Immortal Emperors.
Right from the beginning, he aimed for a defect-free dao foundation. After basking in the Worldly Prime Liquid, his dao foundation was refined even further, causing it to head towards a natural dao foundation that was formed by the world itself.
Without this liquid, his dao foundation would still have blemishes despite being near perfect. Maybe one day, it would become one with the grand dao through a natural process!
Not to mention that it was also filled with the primordial chaos that only existed before the creation of the heaven and earth. This primordial force tore apart all things to create a new six dao and three thousand worlds.
The Kun Peng that was formed by this dao foundation was flying around as the primordial force cascaded downward like a waterfall. The endless primordial chaos was like an ocean that drowned the True Fate.
This was no longer the Kun Peng’s Six Variants since the Kun Peng had undergone a qualitative change. It should be called a Primordial Kun Peng, something much stronger than what it was previously.
An immortal scripture appeared in his sea of memories. This was the One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques created by him, the embodiment of all of his past efforts.
At this moment, the immortal scripture turned into mantras that hovered around the dazzling True Fate that was swallowing an endless amount of worldly energy. The Life Wheel also appeared and started to rotate as Longevity Blood in the shape of dragons began to flow.
All of these things combined into one as the True Fate began to communicate with the four images within the palace.
At this very second, the four images resonated together in a response. The Tree of Life fluttered as countless leaves that were filled with vitality radiated green lights that eventually entered the Longevity Blood and the worldly energy in order to give it the power of life.
The Spring of Life shot out a stream of water more than three thousand miles long that flooded the Longevity Blood and worldly energy as if it was nourishing a new source of life.
Grand dao runes appeared on top of the Pillar of Life. Countless runes soared forward to embed the meaning of the heavens and myriad signs of life into this new source of life in order to form a new universal law.
Finally, the Cauldron of Life poured down fire endowed with vitality. It was not meant to burn, it was meant to grow. At this moment, the combination of the Longevity Blood and worldly energy came together like a newly crafted piece of ceramic with the help of the fire solidifying it.
“Clank—clank—clank!” During this whole refining process, Li Qiye’s Inner Physique by his chest emitted a brilliance that was created by universal laws. These universal laws locked the new creation together and connected it to his Inner Physique. In just a brief moment, these laws allowed for the Inner Physique, the True Fate, and the body to link together to become one. At this moment, Li Qiye’s body emitted a blinding light that illuminated the whole room.
One could see that his bones, muscles, and even his blood were all engraved with complex and enormous heavenly dao runes. It was as if these runes were the true origin of his flesh.
“Clank!”
The endless light came crashing down as the Inner Physique, the True Fate, and the body became one. The Longevity Blood and the worldly energy condensed into one as it devoured the endless lights. These lights that carried the mark of his body were swallowed and engraved into this new essence.
After a long time, this new essence escaped from his Fate Palace and was also pulled by the universal laws into Li Qiye’s chest. Li Qiye’s Hell Suppressing Inner Physique was no longer situated in his entire chest; instead, it moved to the side to make some room.
Next, an unbelievable thing happened. The newly crafted essence began to take the form of a new Inner Physique. It and the Hell Suppressing Inner Physique were both placed in Li Qiye’s chest!
This process was very long, but Li Qiye patiently waited and nurtured the new Inner Physique. He could only sigh in relief after this new Inner Physique was formed.
One body with two Inner Physiques — this was something the world could not imagine. However, Li Qiye’s ambition far exceeded this!
Since the beginning of time, the Fate Palace’s four images were a mystery to cultivators. Many tried to reveal their true profundities and discover their true use.
In this regard, Li Qiye had traveled very far. After so much research, he eventually founded the foundation for him to create an invincible existence like the Black Dragon King with two Immortal Physiques.
Other cultivators only had one Inner Physique, but Li Qiye could create another! After researching the truths of the four images and spending countless years to create his immortal scripture, he was finally able to create the “One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques”. It used the four images to craft a second Inner Physique, maybe even a third!
Longevity Blood and worldly energy from the True Fate would be the base. Then, use the Tree of Life to give it life. Following that, utilize the Spring of Life to nurture it before letting the Pillar of Life provide laws for it. Then, he would use his original Inner Physique to combine the body, the True Fate, and the original engravings onto this new creation. After countless refinements and thorough nurturing, it would result in a new Inner Physique!
This process was extremely difficult and required the support from a great life energy. This meant that in order to create a new Inner Physique, there was a strict requirement regarding the Physique and the four images of one’s Fate Palace.
Before this, Li Qiye had a Mortal Physique and Mortal Fate. Although he was confident that he could craft a second Inner Physique, he knew that with his original body and talents, it would need a very long time alongside painful training. However, he absolutely believed that he could endure this arduous process.
Now, after obtaining a creation in the form of the Worldly Prime Liquid, it was no longer difficult for him to create a new Inner Physique. However, his aspiration did not stop here.
In the past, the Black Dragon King’s talents were quite amazing at a young age. Later on, Li Qiye used countless heavenly treasures to change the Black Dragon King, but he couldn’t find the Worldly Prime Liquid. Despite this, the Black Dragon King was still able to create a second Inner Physique.
Now, with this liquid, it caused Li Qiye to not want to stop at a second Inner Physique. He wanted to craft a third one in order to, one day, surpass the Black Dragon King’s miracle.
“One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques…” In the end, after watching the second Inner Physique reach its initial stage of gestating in his chest, Li Qiye sighed with emotion.
The only thing that would never let one down was sheer effort, so the success of the Black Dragon King was one of the proudest things Li Qiye had accomplished during his millions of years.
Of course, such a thing was too impossible to imagine. Not to mention Heavenly Kings, but even giants across the ages would be startled after finding out such a thing.
One grand completion Immortal Physique was already amazing enough, but what if one person possessed two of them?
The answer was very obvious. The Black Dragon King was revered for three generations and was even avoided by Immortal Emperors because they didn’t want to become enemies with him!
What if one person possessed three Immortal Physiques? This sort of thing might never be answered. However, if it was actually successful, it would break the Black Dragon King’s record. As for how powerful it would be… People simply could not imagine such a thing.
Only Li Qiye knew that this shocking matter was possible, and he was eagerly waiting in anticipation. When that day comes, Li Qiye would — once again — break his record and create a new miracle.
He took out an old box that he got from the Heavenly Dao Academy. Since he crushed the alliance’s scheme against the academy, the academy agreed to give him this box.
After opening it and looking at the thing inside, he became silent for a long time before he closed the box with another sigh.
He then gazed towards the far horizon in contemplation. This trip to the Eastern Hundred Cities was now over, it was time for him to leave. There were things that he must do and things that he had to find out!
Amongst these things were secrets forever unknown to outsiders because they affected too many things, and one was even related to the origin of a race!
Li Qiye silently stood there. Millions of years passed by like flowing water. He once had countless loyal generals and many supreme women by his side to sweep the nine heavens and ten earths.
But today, he trod on this grand path alone.
“All will come to an end!” Li Qiye looked at the far distance and slowly said: “Immortality, eternality, the heavens or the endless time… One day, everything will end by my hands!” This was Li Qiye’s promise to himself and those who once followed him. 1
Chapter 357 - Meeting the Realm God
A few days later, Old Daoist Peng wanted to meet Li Qiye, so Chi Xiaodie went to inform Li Qiye.
The atmosphere inside the room was peaceful. Chen Baojiao was sitting on a chair that was meant for imperial consorts. Although she was charming and seductive, her appearance at this moment also carried an air of divine nobility. This air, combined with her alluring face, painted quite an enticing picture.
Li Qiye was resting his head upon Chen Baojiao’s thighs while she gently caressed his head. Her plump breasts were almost covering his face.
Li Shuangyan, who was standing to the side, was holding a scripture. She was chanting true mantras and slowly reading the profound words from it. Her voice was clear with a hint of coldness. As she was reading, flowers of ice were born alongside blooming snow lotuses.
Chen Baojiao’s entire body was misty like a flowing spring. A dense divine breath filled the room as if Chen Baojiao was a surging sweet drop of dew, nourishing the resting Li Qiye.
Primordial chaos was surrounding Li Qiye’s body and it completely hid his face. In this world, the essence of a primordial breath was the richest in vitality, so anyone who felt Li Qiye’s primordial breath would feel their own blood energy brimming with life.
Chi Xiaodie, who was standing at the door, was very envious of this scene. Such tranquility caused her heart to flutter at this indescribable mood. It was as if an immortal monarch was explaining the mysteries of this world.
After Li Shuangyan finished reading a section from the immortal scripture, Chi Xiaodie quietly spoke: “Senior Peng from the academy wants to see Young Noble.”
If it wasn’t for Old Daoist Peng wanting to meet Li Qiye, Chi Xiaodie wouldn’t have broken this wonderful and peaceful atmosphere.
Eventually, Li Qiye opened his eyes and absorbed all the primordial chaos back into his body as he sat up. He then smiled and said: “Baojiao’s Tyrannical Immortal Spring Physique is indeed extraordinary — very helpful.”
Chen Baojiao’s lips pursed as she replied: “I am also affected by Young Noble’s primordial energy, so I am the one who benefited.” Her sultry grace left others breathless.
Li Shuangyan put away the immortal scripture and revealed a rare smile: “There are three tribulations for a physique, so being exposed to Young Noble’s primordial energy along with the Worldly Prime Liquid’s essence will be very helpful for the future tribulations.”
“The truth is that there are really only two tribulations, but between the minor tribulation and the grand tribulation, the road is so long that some people cannot hold on. They would eventually succumb to their inner demons from impatience. As long as one’s dao heart is firm, how could one lose to the inner demon?” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Although Baojiao’s Tyrannical Immortal Spring Physique is not an Immortal Physique, its future potential is limitless. Of course, Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique is also the same. You two are cultivating the best physique laws in this world so reaching grand completion in the future is already a matter of fact. Although it will take a long time, those who cultivate the dao will all have to experience it. There is no need to be impatient.”
“You two need to have more confidence in yourselves as well as myself. Then, you will reach grand completion in the future. There is no need to rush for success! The level of Immortal Emperor cannot be reached in one day, and neither would Godkings be bestowed their titles in one night!”
Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao nodded their heads. Chi Xiaodie, who was standing nearby, also carved his words into her heart. Following Li Qiye would benefit her for the rest of her life.
Li Qiye turned around and left: “Okay, I will go see the old daoist.”
In another room, Li Qiye met the old daoist. He was still dirty like before, but there was a lively smile alongside his cheerful demeanor.
Seeing his happy mug, Li Qiye understood: “The disaster has passed, and it is time for your academy to reap the rewards.”
“The Realm God is doing just fine. It could be said that it obtained a great fortune out of this disaster. His Reverence will survive in this generation without any problems.”
“I understand your academy’s wish. Of course you want the Realm God to continue living, but what’s the need?” Li Qiye shook his head and smiled.
Old Daoist Peng could not answer Li Qiye. This was a knot with no solution. The Realm God once wanted to leave, but the elders beseeched it to stay. Since it grew up in the academy, in the end, it couldn’t forget the great kindness and decided to stay here to guard the academy.
Li Qiye didn’t harp about this matter any longer. This was an impassable matter of the academy, and they had discussed this for many generations.
“What did you want to see me for?” Li Qiye glanced at the old daoist and asked.
“The Realm God has completely recovered, and His Reverence agreed to your condition. It will carry out the promise at any time.” Old Daoist Peng said with a smile.
“The day will come.” Li Qiye smiled and said: “However, I want to meet the Realm God right now. I have a small matter that I need to trouble it with.”
“How small…?” The old daoist’s heart started to beat faster. He felt that this small matter that Li Qiye mentioned would not be small at all! It would surely be a heaven-piercing matter.
“Oh? Since when did you become such a miser? The Realm God might not say yes, so why are you so alarmed? Not to mention, your Everlasting Courtyard usually does not interfere with anything, so why are you worrying about so many things?”
“Haha, I’m not worry about anything, I am just very enthusiastic about Young Noble Li’s matters. You are an esteemed guest of our academy, so how could we dare to neglect your well-being?”
Li Qiye gave him a cold glance and said: “Enthusiastic? In my eyes, you are simply guarding against thieves. Old Daoist, I am not aiming for your academy!”
Old Daoist Peng immediately solemnly swore: “This is absolutely not the case. Young Noble Li is overthinking things. May the heaven and earth be my witness! This old daoist, no, our Heavenly Dao Academy respects you as an esteemed guest!”
“Fine, don’t blabber on and on. Lead the way, I want to meet the Realm God.”
“This… Umm…” Old Daoist Peng rubbed his palms continuously and didn’t know how to say it.
“What? Is a simple meeting with the Realm God so difficult? Old Man, just say it if you have something in mind, don’t walk around in circles with me.”
“Meeting the Realm God is definitely no problem, it is just that someone else wants to meet Young Noble as well.” Old Daoist Peng let out a wry smile.
“Who?” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and said. He then noticed the old daoist’s facial expression change greatly; after all, not too many things could escape Li Qiye’s eyes.
He took a deep breath and then sent a chilling gaze towards the old daoist as he asked: “Is it Magu?”
“Yes.” Old Daoist Peng rubbed his palms together and said: “The Matriarch wants to meet you.”
“You told her?” Li Qiye glared at him and spoke.
The old daoist’s heart shivered as if a fierce beast was stalking him. After becoming an ancestor, he had not felt this sensation for a very long time.
“Of course not, how could I dare to do so against your wishes? The truth is that I didn’t meet the Matriarch, but today, a message suddenly flew out from the Everlasting Courtyard and said that she wanted to meet Young Noble. In my opinion, the Matriarch saw you when you saved the Realm God.”
Li Qiye paused for a moment. Magu… The passage of time has eroded many matters, there were so many memories that should have just faded into the dust.
“If you refuse to go, it would be very awkward for me seeing as how I’m her grand-disciple.” Old Daoist Peng awkwardly smiled: “Heh, even if you go and meet Her Reverence, you won’t lose anything. Just go and meet her. Our academy’s disciples would dream for a meeting, but we are not allowed.”
Li Qiye softly sighed and said: “Fine, I shall meet her.” Inevitable matters couldn’t be avoided.
“Good! Excellent!” Old Daoist Peng happily exclaimed: “Then I will show you the way and finish my mission.”
“No, we will go meet the Realm God first.” Li Qiye spoke: “I will speak with the Realm God, then meet Magu later.”
“That is fine too.” Old Daoist Peng would agree with anything Li Qiye said as long as he was willing to meet Magu. The smiling old daoist stood up and quickly led the way in case Li Qiye suddenly changed his mind.
Deep in the academy, Li Qiye met the Realm God once more. Today, it was very vigorous and vibrant. Although the pine tree was not very tall, it seemed to be able to pierce the heavens. The Realm God towered like a monstrous giant, causing others to look up at him.
The Realm God could assume a human form, but since it took root in the academy, it preferred to maintain its original form and spoke with its divine will.
An ancient voice appeared: “The younger generation will surpass us in time… You dealt with my calamity and saved the Heavenly Dao Academy in exchange for a single favor — this is too advantageous for the academy.”
Li Qiye smiled and said: “It was just the natural order of things since both sides benefited. There was no reason for me not to do it.”
The pine tree seemingly nodded as if it was a person and said: “I can fulfill the promise whenever you wish.”
“The day will come.” Li Qiye smilingly replied: “But first, I have a small matter that requires your assistance.”
“Go ahead. If it is within my capability, I shall lend you a hand.” This was the Realm God, an unrivaled existence in the current world! It was surely capable of many things. Things deemed impossible by others could easily be dealt with by it.
“I want to visit the Sacred Nether World.” Li Qiye spoke: “Realm God can reach myriad domains, so I’m sure this matter will not be difficult?”
“To the Sacred Nether World?” The Realm God answered with surprise: “It is possible to take you to the Sacred Nether World, but I cannot guarantee the specific location of arrival.”
Chapter 358 - A Difficult Meeting
At this point, the Realm God paused for a bit before continuing: “The Black Dragon King’s battle against Immortal Emperor Ta Kong from back then destroyed the paths that connected the Nine Worlds. Now, the Difficult Dao Era has ended, and the Heaven’s Will will be aggregating in this world once more. However, the paths between the Nine Worlds still haven’t recovered, so these walls are impregnable. I can take you to the Sacred Nether World, but I cannot guarantee where you will land. The only thing I’m certain of will be that you will arrive somewhere in that world.”
“This is not a problem, as long as you can send me to the Sacred Nether World.” Li Qiye nodded his head and said.
“Then all is fine. But first, I have to let you know something. I can take you to the Sacred Nether World, but I cannot bring you back. In order to do so, my true body also needs to go to the Sacred Nether World, but that means I would have to leave the ancestral vein and the academy. Even if I agreed to this, the academy would want you to change the conditions.” The Realm God elaborated.
“You don’t have to personally come, I can solve this issue myself.” Li Qiye smiled then shook his head to say: “These old men from the academy would naturally be unwilling. Leaving the ancestral vein is an extremely difficult matter, not to mention that those old men are treating you as their treasured baby.”
The Realm God burst out in laughter and said: “Don’t blame them, it is I who is unwilling to leave this place. They are my little children that I have watched grow up.” At this point, it finished with a gentle sigh.
Li Qiye was silent. The longer the Realm God lived, the heavier its burden would become. It once wanted to leave, but in the end, it couldn’t let it all go.
To the Realm God, the academy was its home, and its disciples were his children; some of them were even taught by it. Just like it said, many ancestors were watched over by it, so it couldn’t bear to leave the academy.
A long time ago, Li Qiye once said that the Realm God’s success was due to the academy, but its undoing was also because of the academy.
Ultimately, the academy was its burden. Otherwise, it would have become an Immortal Emperor a long time ago, something that would shoulder the Heaven’s Will!
“How is the Void Gate?” The Realm God inquired.
Rumor has it that the Realm God and the Void Gate had a lot to do with each other. A high ancestor of the academy brought the mysterious Realm God back from the timeless portal, so some believed that it came from the Void Gate!
“One day, it will open again.” Li Qiye spoke with confidence: “Nine Grand Heavenly Treasures — who on earth could actually control them? However, the gate shall open once more in this generation, just wait and see.”
The Realm God nodded and finally lamented: “Nine Grand Heavenly Treasures… Oh how many people have yearned for them since the beginning of time, and how many Immortal Emperors dreamed for them to no avail. Maybe I will one day go and see it for it shall be my final destination.”
Li Qiye was not surprised to hear these words. To the Realm God, perhaps this was its best ending — returning to its roots!
“When do you want to go to the Sacred Nether World?” The Realm God finally asked.
“Very soon. When I am prepared, I will let you know.” Li Qiye answered.
This trip to the Sacred Nether World was not on a whim since there were a few things he wanted to make clear!
“Well, when you are ready, let me know any time.” The Realm God was a straightforward being and instantly agreed.
Li Qiye then left the Realm God’s dwelling. The moment Old Daoist Peng saw him, he said: “I will take you to the Matriarch.” His attitude indicated that he was afraid Li Qiye would change his mind.
Li Qiye gently sighed and nodded his head. Certain things were just inevitable, so the two of them headed to the Elegant Peak.
This peak was solitary amongst the vast territory of the academy. It was not the most grand or majestic mountain, but it was indeed beautiful, giving others the sensation that it was separated from the rest of the world.
A waterfall descended from the sky as if it was a path to the nine heavens. Above the peak and the waterfall, an ancient pavilion was floating without a care for the mundane world.
Its doors were closed and sealed by the grand dao. No one would dare to approach the doors that were locked with such a grand seal; they could only watch from afar in fear that they would disturb the tranquility.
Even the academy itself respected this tranquility. Within a radius of one hundred miles around this peak, all was very quiet. All the ancestors from the academy cultivated far away from this place since they didn’t want to bother the slumbering Matriarch. Other people definitely wouldn’t even come close to this horizon.
Standing below the Elegant Peak, Li Qiye told the old daoist: “I will go alone. There are some matters, some conversations that need to be resolved in private.”
The old daoist was startled and his heart rate started to rise. He didn’t know Li Qiye’s true origin, but he hoped that it had nothing to do with grudges or resentment. The academy did not wish to become enemies with someone like Li Qiye!
“Don’t worry, my ancestor is not antagonistic towards Magu.” Li Qiye saw through this thought and smilingly shook his head.
“Please send the Matriarch my best regards.” Old Daoist Peng sighed in relief and said as he quietly left.
Glancing at the peak with a heavy heart, Li Qiye began his ascent.
After reaching the top and standing before the old pavilion, he became a bit overwhelmed with memories. Many years had passed, but this place still contained those memories!
There was no physical lock on the door. It was, instead, sealed by the grand dao. Time, worldly affairs, and the heaven and earth were all sealed! All steps were paused, only an eternity of persistence remained. Perhaps this grand dao seal locked Magu’s dao heart so that it would forever remain peaceful and firm!
“You saved the Realm God. I have seen your methods.” In the end, a voice came from inside the ancient pavilion. It was an extremely transcendent voice, like the tone of a fairy who had successfully ascended from the mortal world. This voice was capable of soothing the hearts of all listeners.
“It was merely luck. There are a plethora of techniques in this world, so one of them would surely be the right one.” Li Qiye paused in silence for a bit before answering.
“The Kun Peng around your body with its countless dao… It is very rare.” The immortal voice emanated from the ancient pavilion again.
Li Qiye was speechless for he didn’t know how to properly respond. After a long silence, he put on an unfearful expression and answered: “I am a disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, and I cultivate the Kun Peng’s Six Variants with the blessing of my ancestor. The countless dao surrounding my Kun Peng is my ancestor’s will.”
“So that is the case.” The ethereal voice spoke once more: “But your mastery of the Perimeter of the Wise Sages was quite amazing and worthy of admiration. The elders of the academy had never seen someone so adept.”
This made Li Qiye’s heart jump. He could only sigh helplessly before finally answering: “I have read about it once from the wise sages’ records. I did a lot of research, thus I was proficient at it.”
The ancient pavilion became silent for a long time. Eventually, Li Qiye took a deep breath and said with a bow: “If Predecessor has no other questions, then this young one shall leave.” With that, he turned away and began to depart.
“Teacher—” However, before he could take two steps, a gentle voice called from inside.
Li Qiye, who intended to leave, became frozen. This word “teacher” was too familiar; it caused him to think about the young girl of that year.
Li Qiye took a deep breath before slowly turning around and saying: “Maybe Predecessor has the wrong person.”
“Teacher, I know it is you.” The ethereal voice appeared: “I cultivate the Eternal Physique that was taught to me by Teacher. Teacher’s Immortal Physique has reached minor completion, so the moment you stood here, I knew this Immortal Physique came from the Physique Scripture. You also once used a myriad of dao to seal your memories in the deepest parts of your mind. When I followed you back then, I felt the power of this seal; I know that besides you, no one else in this world could use the dao of Immortal Emperors to seal your sea of memories.”
Li Qiye stayed silent. Although he could hide his identity from others, he couldn’t hide it from this foolish Magu, someone who had always followed his teachings in an exemplary manner!
“That year when the Black Dragon King tore apart the heavens, I immediately knew something happened to Teacher. Unfortunately, my Eternal Physique cultivation was at a key moment and I couldn’t come into being from my hibernation to help the Black Dragon King sweep through all of Teacher’s hindrances!” A voice filled with emotions rang from inside.
“Meeting Teacher today shows me that the Black Dragon King was successful.” The clear voice continued on: “I am foolish and know that I cannot compare to the Black Dragon King, the other emperors, or many of your heavenly-blessed students. I understand and do not blame you for not wanting to meet me.”
Emotions ran rampant in Li Qiye’s heart. After so many years, this little girl still remembered such matters.
“You are mistaken.” Li Qiye gently shook his head and said: “I have always been proud of you from the depths of my heart. It is true that you are not comparable to that group like the Black Dragon King, who were capable of suppressing all eras, but you have an unrivaled dao heart that is capable of enduring the endless passage of time. This is something that they could not hope to have.”
“I should be thanking you.” Li Qiye softly sighed and said: “I had trained many Eternal Physiques, but you are the only one who was successful. A grand completion Eternal Physique is even harder to train than an Immortal Emperor.”
“Teacher, it really is you!” The ethereal voice exclaimed with excitement and surprise.
“So you tricked me.” Li Qiye let out a wry smile and shook his head to say: “So you were not certain.”
“I believed that it was Teacher.” The ethereal voice inside said with joy: “But I didn’t know whether you still had memories of me or not.”
Chapter 359 - Immortal Xu Chong
Overwhelmed with emotions, Li Qiye had no choice but to admit: “Time might be heartless, but there are things and some people that will never be forgotten. You were able to reach where you are today… To say the least, it is already very amazing. I am proud of you.”
“I want to meet Teacher.” Magu’s ethereal voice came from the ancient pavilion and was full of desire.
Li Qiye remained silent since he felt that it was better to not meet. He couldn’t help but force a smile as he spoke: “Maybe my arrival to the academy was a mistake. This is becoming a detriment to you.”
“No, it is a good thing for me.” The ethereal voice excitedly said: “At the very least, it will give me the desire to carry on! Teacher can shoulder eons, but after I had some success, you no longer came back to see me. However, I always knew that you were alive somewhere in the world! Then, the Black Dragon King suddenly seized the Heaven’s Will so I was worried that you would not be able to come back. I do not blame you for not wanting to see me, but I must see you.”
“No.” Li Qiye couldn’t help but let out a long sigh and said: “It would be better if you do not come into being. I will go meet you, instead. You still have a long way to go before reaching the apex of the Eternal Physique. Your grand dao has locked the world for a long time, so if you leave the seal now, it will require a lot of effort before you can lock it again. Don’t leave this pavilion and the seal. The heaven and earth might be outside, but your dao heart sealed the path; I will come to see you!”
“I knew that Teacher would want to see me!” Magu’s happy and surprised voice rang out. It was then followed by a clanking noise as the grand dao that locked the pavilion was unlocked. And so, the door quietly opened.
“Little Girl.” Li Qiye shook his head and smiled: “Everyone used to call you dumb, but I think that you are becoming more and more crafty.” Li Qiye stepped inside and the grand dao sealed the door once more.
Stepping inside resulted in a scene that drastically differed from the pavilion’s external appearance. The indistinct immortal air was everywhere as the heaven and earth formed its own world in this place.
Once one entered this domain, they would be immersed in this immortal energy that permeated their bodies, giving them a pleasant, floating sensation. At this moment, this immortal energy washed away all traces of the mortal world.
In this immortal land, a jade bed was situated in the middle. It was supported by an endless amount of immortal energy and was shrouded in innumerable auspicious lights.
A girl in her twenties laid atop the jade bed with her eyes closed in tranquility. She was adorned with a white silk robe and had ordinary facial features. However, others could stare at her forever without being tired; this ordinary face was the most beautiful masterpiece of the creator. There were no discernable flaws no matter what angle they viewed her from, nor could one get enough from gazing at this impeccable face.
It was the most ordinary type of beauty. It wasn’t a beauty that would steal one’s breath away, but the type that would garner even more love and adoration as time passed.
The immortal air that surrounded this girl was completely transcendent and was without any blemishes. It appeared as if the immortal land was strengthening her, but it was the opposite since she was the sole reason for this immortal scenery to exist.
Goddess Mei Suyao was also transcendent, but in the end, she lacked a certain something… Perhaps, calmness. However, this girl that was laying in front of him was truly untouched by mundanity. Her dao heart was as calm as this immortal scene, as serene as water at the bottom of a well, as if this would always remain unchanged.
Li Qiye gently sat by the bed and gazed at her ordinary yet beautiful features with a sigh. Regarding this matter, he was not comparable to Magu, who didn’t care about competing in this world. Her dao heart was eternal.
Li Qiye quietly sat and watched over Magu without speaking for a long time. Eventually, Magu gently opened her eyes. It was just like the beginning of the heaven and earth and the formation of the immortal land.
People once used this phrase to describe Immortal Emperors: when they open their eyes, a new world emerges; when they close their eyes, even eternity becomes extinguished! These words were not an exaggeration to describe Magu at this time.
“Teacher—” Seeing Li Qiye, Magu still couldn’t contain her emotions and said: “Teacher, I can finally see your original form!” Having said that, she reached out as immortal energy surrounded her pure hand.
She gently caressed Li Qiye’s face and whispered: “This is reality… It is not just a dream. Teacher, you really did escape from the Immortal Demon Grotto!” Unconsciously, tears began to drip from the corners of her eyes. These tears glistened like the nectar of immortals.
“Silly Girl, this is a happy occasion.” Li Qiye gently wiped away her tears and said: “You have sealed away worldly desires so you shouldn’t be joyous or sorrowful.”
“Since Teacher is still alive, it is all worth it.” Magu stopped crying and revealed the most beautiful and sincere smile in this world.
“Don’t be like this, you should return to tranquility. Having an eternal life is to let things take their own course of action, there is no need to be so emotional.”
“I will listen to you, Teacher.” Magu slowly closed her eyes with her brows fluttering like the wings of an elf.
She slowly calmed down. It seemed that, at this moment, she once again sealed the world and returned to an eternally unchanging state. However, her hands still tightly clutched Li Qiye’s hands with a sweet and peaceful smile on her face.
“Teacher, I have many things that I want to tell you.” Magu slowly spoke as she went back to her sweet, dreamlike state. At this moment, her dao became eternal and was full of life like shining sunlight. It was no longer desolate and instead became vibrant with fascinating and colorful tints.
“Silly Girl, I will reach the high heavens and become the eternal ruler in this generation, so we will have plenty of time later.” Li Qiye gently stroked her hair with a smile.
“Teacher, are you about to leave?” The peaceful Magu gripped Li Qiye’s hands tightly as if she was afraid that he would disappear if she were to let go.
“Yes.” Li Qiye said softly: “I am going to the Sacred Nether World soon. There are a few things that I need to deal with. But before that, I have some time to listen to you.”
“I want Teacher to teach me like before.” Magu revealed an ordinary yet sweet and beautiful smile that bloomed straight from the heart.
“No.” Li Qiye shook his head and replied: “I really do not have anything else to teach you because you have traversed on this path much further than I. You have a better grasp on the Eternal Physique than me; you are the unparalleled master on this matter. You are my pride! Geniuses and heaven’s proud children cannot reach the apex compared to you for none of them were able to persevere for so long.”
“But there are still many things I have yet to learn from Teacher.” Magu held onto Li Qiye’s hand like a child with a joyous smile.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but laugh before he finally spoke: “To me, what you have achieved is already enough. No one is more remarkable than you.”
Magu happily smiled, and the immortal land suddenly became jubilant as if myriad words finally obtained serenity. An elated atmosphere pervaded the entire space!
For the next while, Magu spoke about many things with Li Qiye. Immortal Xu Chong was the most mysterious and powerful existence in the present world. She was one of the two ancestors upholding the Heavenly Dao Academy, but she was still the little girl of the past in front of Li Qiye!
The joyous atmosphere lingered for a long time inside the ancient pavilion as the earth became happy. A myriad of existences became rejuvenated.
A long time later, Li Qiye knew that it was time to leave so he gently kissed Magu’s forehead and said: “You are only a little bit away from succeeding with your grand dao to lock the world. Keep on persevering and I shall wait for the day you come into being. I am certain that you will be successful.”
Magu eventually entered her slumber once again with a sweet smile. At this time, the immortal energy soared with dazzling immortal brilliances that shone onto this land. In this moment, Magu was eternal.
Deep down inside, Li Qiye was glad to see that Magu quickly entered the Eternal Physique state, and he slowly departed. After he left, the grand dao locked the pavilion again. Magu had now entered a deep slumber again. Perhaps the next time she woke up, her physique would reach grand completion, granting her eternal life!
Li Qiye left the Elegant Peak and went back to the academy. Actually seeing Magu was a good resolution to one of his main concerns, so this trip to the Heavenly Dao Academy could be considered complete.
He was always worried that meeting her would have an adverse effect on her, but he became relieved after seeing her state. She had reached a very far destination, and no one could compare to her even throughout the ages.
As the load on his mind became relieved, Li Qiye intended to leave. He was not going back to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, but to the Sacred Nether World instead to deal with a few matters.
As he was preparing for the trip, Chi Xiaodie suddenly rushed in one day while panicking. The moment she saw him, she quickly shouted: “Young Noble, please save my grandfather and little brother!”
“What happened?” Li Qiye grimaced and said.
“Xiaodao was captured and my grandfather is trapped right now. Only you can save them!”
“Don’t worry, just calmly tell me everything.” Li Qiye consoled her: “As long as I am here, it is not a big deal even if the gods and devils arrive.”
The flustered Chi Xiaodie finally managed to calm down and said: “This is because of Princess Bao Yun. My brother went to propose, but he didn’t expect to see the Tiger Howl’s School there…”
Chapter 360 - Chi Xiaodao In Trouble
So it was because Chi Xiaodao and Princess Bao Yun stuck together like glue. He intended to marry her!
As his grandfather, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King naturally supported his grandson.
Not to mention that Chi Xiaodao obtained a great creation in the timeless portal, so his future was quite bright. This gave him even more confidence in the success of this marriage proposal.
Before this, there had been a great development. The Bao Yun Clan was happy to form an alliance with the Tiger’s Howl School since Hu Yue’s future was quite bright due to being a contemporary genius.
Unfortunately, Hu Yue picked the wrong opponent this time and died miserably in Li Qiye’s hands, resulting in the failure of the marriage alliance.
Also, the Bao Yun Clan’s attitude towards Chi Xiaodao became better as well. First, it was because the two young ones were each other’s sunshine and they were completely unaffected by the clan’s influence. Second, Chi Xiaodao’s talents were not bad at all; he was not a heavenly genius like Hu Yue, but he still had a lot of potential.
The third reason was due to the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King coming out from his isolated cultivation. Rumor has it that his Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique had reached minor completion, and some even believed that he found a complete physique law from his ancestor.
He would become invincible the day he reached grand completion, so the Bao Yun Clan thought more highly of the Lion’s Roar Gate.
This was why the clan agreed to Chi Xiaodao’s proposal. Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King personally came to propose for his grandson!
However, the Tiger’s Howl School also came to propose. Although Hu Yue was dead, they still had other promising disciples.
No one knew whether this incident was a coincidence or a premeditated attack against the Lion’s Roar Gate.
They were both guests at the Bao Yun Clan, but Chi Xiaodao and another outstanding disciple of the Tiger’s Howl School got into a conflict. Chi Xiaodao killed that disciple out of anger, so the Tiger’s Howl experts took him captive.
The outraged Heavenly King killed his way into the Tiger’s Howl School in order to save Chi Xiaodao, but unexpectedly, not only was he unable to save Chi Xiaodao, he was also trapped inside the school’s secret ground.
Once Chi Xiaodie got the news from the other disciples, she immediately ran to Li Qiye for help. Since even her grandfather was trapped, only Li Qiye would be able to save her grandfather and brother.
“Young Noble, please save Grandfather and Chi Xiaodao.” Chi Xiaodie was on the verge of crying. Their Lion’s Roar Gate was completely powerless in these circumstances.
“Tiger’s Howl School…” Li Qiye rubbed his chin and said: “A bit interesting. If I am not mistaken, that place has a grand vein. Since they do not know life from death, I will have to make a trip.”
“No, you cannot.” At this time, Sikong Toutian, who previously disappeared, rushed out. He looked at Li Qiye and shook his head: “This is a trap.”
“What trap?” At this moment, Chen Baojiao, who was standing next to Li Qiye, asked in surprise.
Sikong Toutian immediately answered: “The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King is a powerful hero.” Having said this, he gave a thumbs up to Chi Xiaodie and continued on: “Think about it, the enraged Heavenly King entered the school. He should be unstoppable with his Immortal Physique so saving Chi Xiaodao should have been easy. However, he was actually trapped there as well! This is clearly something they had planned from the start.”
“A conspiracy aimed at Young Noble.” Sikong Toutian conversed with Li Qiye: “The enemy is prepared to bait us into a trap. Young Noble will have a hard time invading the Tiger’s Howl School.”
“This is true, but that only makes me want to go even more.” Li Qiye laughed without any fear.
Sikong Toutian busily said in a serious tone: “It is indeed true. Not only the Tiger’s Howl School, but other sects in the Eastern Hundred Cities are involved as well. Since they are not happy about Young Noble stealing emperor weapons from others, they might even summon an Immortal Emperor True Treasure.”
“Immortal Emperor True Treasure?” Li Qiye furrowed his brows and cheerfully said: “They want to gift me an Immortal Emperor True Treasure?”
When Li Qiye squinted his eyes, it frightened Sikong Toutian considerably, but he still reminded Li Qiye: “Young Noble, don’t go to the Tiger’s Howl School. Maybe it is not strong enough in your eyes, but their ancestral ground is very formidable. It is a White Tiger vein — extremely powerful. I have snuck into that place once, it is a ferocious vein!”
At this time, he continued on with a changed expression: “But this is not the worst part about the school. I snuck there to the place where the Tiger God started everything. There were four graves there, and the Tiger God’s grave was not one of them. They were extremely ancient and had fierce auras that pierced the sky. I believe that the school can borrow the invincible power of the four ominous graves! If these graves were to be opened, they could probably even kill a Virtuous Paragon! I think their intention is clear; they want to lead Young Noble to this place.”
“Then what should we do?” Chen Baojiao and Li Shuangyan were a bit alarmed. The Tiger’s Howl School had the home ground advantage so this was quite disadvantageous for them.
Chi Xiaodie was also worried: “Is there nothing we can do? Should we ask for assistance from others?” She was worried about her grandfather and brother, but she also cared for Li Qiye.
“Little Tou is wrong about this.” Li Qiye smilingly said: “I have been to the White Tiger vein before, and I also saw the four ominous graves. There is nothing to worry about. If this is all the Tiger’s Howl School has up their sleeves, then it is too disappointing.” 1
At this point, he pondered again. To be more specific, he had not only been to this ancestral ground, he also knew its true secret!
“Young Noble truly wants to go?” Sikong Toutian asked: “How about we find more experts to come with us, like the Ice Feather Palace?”
“No need.” Li Qiye smiled and looked at Sikong Toutian: “Do you think the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is involved, or would it be the Azure Mysterious Ancient Kingdom?”
“Haha, the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is in it for sure because the Tiger’s Howl School cannot handle this situation alone. Young Noble possesses two emperor weapons! Without their own emperor weapon, how could the school dare to do this? Although they are trying to be secretive, there is nothing that can be hidden forever in this world.”
“I heard the divine beast protector of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is still alive.” Li Qiye then calmly said while stroking his chin: “I wonder if it will come or not.”
These words frightened the group of Sikong Toutian. Chi Xiaodie turned pale and uttered in astonishment: “Is… Is that true? What if the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector actually comes? I heard that it was comparable to the divine protector of the Heavenly Dao Academy. They are both invincible!”
“If it actually comes, then this matter will escalate out of control.” Sikong Toutian’s scalp was tingling as if it was pricked by pins and needles: “That old thing is definitely not an undying, nor is it a legendary master. In my opinion, it is absolutely an existence of the eternal level! Existences of this level are extremely powerful. If it does come, then this this venture might be doomed from the start!”
Chi Xiaodie was aghast. Although she wanted to save her family, she also didn’t want Li Qiye to fall into danger.
“Who says it is doomed? I’m more worry about…” Li Qiye nonchalantly smiled and said.
“Worry about what?” Chen Baojiao interjected in a rush.
“I’m more worried that the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector does not come. It would be so boring if such an invincible existence does not come. Things would be much more exciting with its presence. Although that old man is called a divine beast, his bloodline really doesn’t belong to real divine beasts. Nevertheless, there is still a little bit of divine beast blood in him. This substance is extremely nourishing. He is a little bit old so his Longevity Blood might be lacking, but if he does come, I actually want to taste the blood of a divine beast!” Li Qiye licked his lips as he finished this sentence.
Sikong Toutian felt a chill running through his spine. He was already frightened by the possible appearance of the divine beast protector, but Li Qiye’s gaze was even more terrifying. It was as if he was the hunter and the Tiger’s Howl School was the prey.
“We’ll pay them a visit.” Li Qiye said with a broad smile: “It has been a while since I’ve seen a real grand event. I hope it is not like the sneak attack on the academy with only boring old undyings. Surely, some eternal existences buried underground might want to crawl out this time.” 2
Sikong Toutian took a deep breath and felt that not opposing Li Qiye was the most sensible decision of his life. As for Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao, they were already used to this.
Before leaving for the Tiger’s Howl School, Li Qiye called for Zi Cuining and said: “Let me borrow the Immortal’s Blood Spear for a few days.”
Zi Cuining handed over the strongest weapon that symbolized the Heaven Protector City to Li Qiye without any hesitation.
“Do you need me to pave the way for you?” Zi Cuining asked.
“No need.” Li Qiye gave off a sinister smile and said: “Without massacring a sect, a few people would think that I am made out of mud for them to mold however they wish. If someone wants to test my real capabilities, then I’ll fulfill their desire.”
Zi Cuining couldn’t help but give a smile with an irresistible charm.
Many people in the Eastern Hundred Cities paid attention to this event where the Tiger’s Howl School captured Chi Xiaodao and the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King. It was as if the conflict between the two sects had begun once more.
Great characters with deep insight knew that this was not just an incidental conflict, it was a premeditated plan!
“A fierce storm is coming, right?” A Mortal King couldn’t help but murmur: “It seems like, this time, blood will fill the rivers. I’m afraid a sect will disappear after this storm.”
But as for which sect will fall, no one could say for certain!
Chapter 361 - Tiger’s Howl School
Many people secretly talked about this conflict that was ignited by the imprisonment of Chi Xiaodao and the Heavenly King…
“The Tiger’s Howl School is really courageous. Do they not know that the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King has a really good relationship with many hall masters from the academy!?” An older cultivator couldn’t help but murmur after hearing such news.
Having heard that, another older cultivator shook his head in disagreement: “I’m afraid those ties will be useless. After the battle last year, many hall masters are either wounded or crippled, and some even died! I’m afraid no one will come and save the Heavenly King.”
“But the Heavenly King might not necessarily be trapped, I heard that his Immortal Physique had reached some level of success.” Another skeptic spoke.
In the Eastern Hundred Cities, the Heavenly King was considered a top level character, especially during the Difficult Dao Era. He was one of the renowned experts from the previous generation.
“Even a dragon cannot suppress a snake in its own nest; the Heavenly King entering the Tiger’s Howl School was not a wise move.” A sacred lord explained: “The school has a grand vein with a powerful ancestral foundation. The Heavenly King rushing in was the same as walking into a trap.”
“A murder must be paid with one’s life!” At this time, after capturing Chi Xiaodao and his grandfather, a representative from the Tiger’s Howl School announced.
A person from the school appeared. This was an old man that appeared to be around seventy years old. Although he looked to be nearing his end, his vitality still covered the sky. This was made especially apparent with the forty-nine divine rings circling his body; it was as if he was a venerable saint!
His presence caused the forty-nine divine rings to shoulder the sky like a giant standing between the heaven and earth. His Heavenly Sovereign aura was as powerful as a tsunami, causing the surrounding earth to shake as countless Named Heroes shivered in fear.
“Forty-nine divine rings, a Jewel Sovereign!”
A Named Hero felt the earth-rending pressure and murmured with dread in his heart.
Seeing this old man, a royal lord recognized his identity and exclaimed in astonishment: “The Tiger’s Howl School’s Prime Imperial Sire, he is still alive! Rumor has it that he had died during the Difficult Dao Era!” 1
“A monster that lived during the Difficult Dao Era and a once-incomparable genius… He still proudly swept over the eight desolaces even during that arduous time! Then, he was the Regent for six dynasties! And it seems that his cultivation is only one ring away from grand achievement Jewel Sovereign. What if he actually reaches the World Sovereign level?” Seeing this old man, those who knew his identity were quite shocked.
“It is already heaven-defying to be just one ring away from grand achievement, but he still shouldn’t be able to trap the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King, right?” Despite this, people were still suspicious of the event.
Heavenly Sovereigns also had their own classifications. From weakest to strongest, they are Little Sovereign, Grand Sovereign, Jewel Sovereign, World Sovereign, and Era Sovereign!
The distinction between these levels was very simple. When one reached the Heavenly Sovereign realm, they would have a divine ring. The greater the amount, the stronger the cultivation would be.
Nine was the number that represented the grand dao, so a Little Sovereign at grand achievement had nine rings. Thirty was the respective number for a heavenly revolution, so a Grand Sovereign at grand achievement had thirty rings. Fifty was the number of the grand change, so a Jewel Sovereign at grand achievement had fifty rings. Eighty-one rings were the number of a grand achievement World Sovereign, and ninety-nine rings were the number of a grand achievement Era Sovereign. 2
The Prime Imperial Sire of the Tiger’s Howl School was once a devilish genius during the Difficult Dao Era and the de-facto leader of six dynasties. Even though he was old, his blood energy was still as ferocious as before since he could reach the World Sovereign level at any time!
His appearance greatly changed the faces of many people, but the news he announced set off even more waves!
“Little Brat Li Qiye, you ordered the kid from the Chi Clan to kill my school’s disciple so today, a life shall be paid with a life! It will either be your life, or the life of Chi Xiaodao! The day of the full moon will be the day of the execution. You can decide it for yourself!”
The Prime Imperial Sire aimed straight for Li Qiye with a proclamation to the rest of the world! The school even invited all the sects to come watch the date for the sentence to be carried out!
This bold gesture confused many people, especially those who were not privy to all the information.
“Is this the Tiger’s Howl School killing the chicken to warn the monkey? Is this an attempt at taking revenge for Hu Yue?”
“The Prime Imperial Sire had no choice but to become involved since the Lion’s Roar Gate broke the marriage alliance between the Bao Yun Clan and the Tiger’s Howl School. It makes sense that the school would become angry. Its previous generation could not just be idle and take it!” A person analyzed the school’s action.
The feud between Li Qiye and the school was a commonly known matter since Li Qiye was the main culprit in breaking off this marriage alliance and killing Hu Yue.
“Could the Tiger’s Howl School actually deal with Li Qiye? This Li Qiye is a brutal monster!” A Demon Monarch valued Li Qiye greatly and said: “Brutal Li Qiye isn’t afraid of anything since he even dared to kill Heavenly Prince Qing Xuan and Great Child Yao Guang! The Tiger’s Howl School must be nothing in his eyes. Even if the Prime Imperial Sire wants to get involved, it would still not be enough because Brutal Li Qiye has two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures that would allow him to sweep through anything. Now, the school wants to provoke Li Qiye — they are just looking for trouble, right?”
Many scalps tingled as people thought about the two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures in the hands of a vicious person like Li Qiye. If he could actually unleash an Imperial Massacre, then the consequences would be too terrible for the imagination. 3
This was the reason why many sects did not want to come and observe the date of the sentence despite receiving invitations.
Think about it for a second, this was Brutal Li Qiye who didn’t even care for the Ancient Kingdoms, let alone a little Tiger’s Howl School. This was definitely a guy who would start massacring anywhere! Who would be willing to become enemies with him?
“Although Li Qiye’s fierce fame is soaring at the moment, it is hard to tell who the winner would be right now.” A truly powerful person with some information spoke: “The death of a few disciples is nothing. The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom hasn’t come out, and neither did the Azure Mysterious Ancient Kingdom. Not even did the Furious Immortal Saint Country make a move, but the Tiger’s Howl School is the one to start? This whole thing doesn’t make any sense! This is clearly baiting the enemy into a trap; if Li Qiye actually thinks that the Tiger’s Howl School is so weak to the point of being easily bullied, then he will die a miserable death.”
Disputes and conflicts were common occurrences. In fact, the Lion’s Roar School was much weaker than the TIger’s Howl School, so it was normal that it would be bullied by the school.
However, once the Prime Imperial Sire called out Li Qiye by name, many experienced cultivators sensed an abnormal atmosphere within this great subtleness.
In a short period of time, countless people looked towards the school and also at Li Qiye. They all want to see what Li Qiye would do to defuse this crisis.
“This is a trap.” An intelligence master of a great sect deduced: “Li Qiye, right now, is like the sun at high noon. His great fame is comparable to that of Goddess Mei Suyao’s; he is basically without anyone to oppose him! The school’s actions clearly reek of a planned trap for Li Qiye. If he actually jumps in, then he would be a fish in a jar, but if he doesn’t move against the provocation, then it would have an adverse effect on his prestige. Being afraid without battling — this would become a shadow in his heart, and it would be detrimental to his future road of cultivation.”
On the second day after the declaration made by the Prime Imperial Sire, Li Qiye immediately appeared right outside the Tiger’s Howl School. As one stared at it from afar, it seemed to be a giant tiger waiting to ferociously pounce at any time!
The current school was a powerful sect and controlled an entire country in the Eastern Hundred Cities. Legends state that its progenitor was a Tiger God — a True God blessed by the high heavens. No one knew whether this was the truth or not.
Regardless, anyone who stood outside the school would feel this powerful and fierce atmosphere as if a great tiger was swooping by, something capable of tearing apart any cultivator limb from limb.
A person who had visited the school before said with emotion after feeling this atmosphere once more: “No wonder why Hu Yue was as fierce as a tiger. A vein like this would surely groom such a genius!”
Many great sects lusted after the school because of one very simple reason — there was a grand vein beneath the school’s ground, a White Tiger Great Vein, a vein of one of the four divine beasts!
Another rumor one heard would say that the Tiger God was born in this place. Eventually, he was bestowed the title of True God, then he established the million-year-old school at this place!
It continued on to mention that the Tiger God was strengthened by this White Tiger Great Vein to build his supreme True God body. This great vein also became a hard-to-shake foundation for the school.
Also, many people could only come back empty-handed despite their desire for the White Tiger Great Vein because of another reason — the four ominous graves. These four graves had always protected the school; they created a defensive line that was unbreachable for even a Virtuous Paragon.
“This mountain has such a fierce atmosphere!” Chen Baojiao couldn’t help but exclaim after gazing at it with Li Shuangyan.
Li Qiye glanced at the school and smiled: “Of course it is fierce. This place used to have an ominous vein, so its propensity for violence is beyond your imagination.”
Many people secretly talked about this conflict that was ignited by the imprisonment of Chi Xiaodao and the Heavenly King…
“The Tiger’s Howl School is really courageous. Do they not know that the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King has a really good relationship with many hall masters from the academy!?” An older cultivator couldn’t help but murmur after hearing such news.
Having heard that, another older cultivator shook his head in disagreement: “I’m afraid those ties will be useless. After the battle last year, many hall masters are either wounded or crippled, and some even died! I’m afraid no one will come and save the Heavenly King.”
Chapter 362 - Charging into the Tiger’s Howl School Alone
“Do we just kill our way in like this?” Chi Xiaodie couldn’t refrain from being concerned and said: “I heard that the four ominous graves of the school are amazing and could kill even Virtuous Paragons!”
“No, we won’t make our way in at this moment. Go inform them!” Li Qiye glanced at the school and smiled.
“Inform them?” Hearing these words, the group of girls couldn’t help but become surprised. They came in order to save Chi Xiaodao and his grandfather, so the best method was to attack before the enemy could prepare. Thus, Li Qiye’s order left them in disbelief.
Li Qiye said with a smile: “I am a merciful man, someone who doesn’t like to kill others, right? Since they are near their demise, I have to give the poor Tiger’s Howl School a chance to let their young ones escape. After all, I can’t just go in and madly massacre them all with an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure, others would think that I’m a heartless butcher!”
Chen Baojiao couldn’t help but roll her pretty eyes; of course she didn’t believe him. With regards to aggressiveness, who could compare to him?
“Crash!” All of a sudden, with a loud bang, the Tiger’s Howl School started to violently shake. With rumbling noises everywhere, the earth itself was being rended apart.
“What happened!?” Due to the sudden ruptures, many people became shocked. Especially those who were right outside and gazing at the school, they were completely aghast!
“Who is it!?” Many of the Tiger’s Howl School disciples were terrified. When they calmed down, they found that the gate was completed demolished! No, it would be more accurate to say that someone smashed it apart.
At this time, the entrance was completely destroyed, and the golden plaque with the three words “Tiger’s Howl School” was under the feet of a young man.
“You ignorant fool!” The Tiger’s Howl disciples went mad. In the blink of an eye, more than ten of them rushed forward with all of their might.
“Bang—bang—bang—” The ground shook as mountains were blown apart. This young man not only blew away the disciples that rushed at him, but he also broke through all obstacles in his way like a raging dragon.
“Kill!” More Tiger’s Howl disciples rushed forward with loud battle cries. They were without any fear of death.
However, this youth was unstoppable and kept on rushing forward; no one could block his path. Both weapons and treasures were meaningless before him since they instantly shattered at the moment of collision.
“Rumble!” With violent quakes due to the mountains collapsing, the young man crazily rushed forward and crashed into the peaks, causing dust to scatter everywhere. All of a sudden, blood painted the sky as miserable screams resounded throughout the atmosphere. Countless mangled bodies flew everywhere.
“It is Li Qiye!” Many cultivators right outside the school spoke in astonishment when they saw this young man raging like a wild dragon.
“Little Animal, accept your death!” At this time, a maddened roar arrived alongside the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster. The moment he saw Li Qiye destroying everything in his unstoppable rampage, he cried out in rage and used a divine sword to create a thousand miles slash in order to kill Li Qiye.
With a loud bang, the sound of a sword breaking appeared as the schoolmaster spewed out blood nonstop. With a deafening crash, he was slammed into a mound with a hand gripping him by the neck.
He was beaten by just one move! Being heavily wounded by the opponent and having his neck clasped without even being able to move, the schoolmaster was horrified to the point where his face was as pale as paper.
“This is too devilish!” Seeing this scene, many spectators outside took a deep breath. In just a second, Li Qiye killed his way in and annihilated everything in his path.
“Even though the current schoolmaster cannot compare to the Tiger King, he is still an amazing Ancient Saint! How could he be defeated in the blink of an eye?” A person nervously exclaimed right outside of the school.
Li Qiye tightly gripped the school master’s neck and nonchalantly smiled: “Your Tiger’s Howl School wants to challenge me on the day of the full moon… Fine, I will accept this invitation. However, I will remind you out of goodwill — send the weak and the old to another location because, on the day of the full moon, there will be no more Tiger’s Howl School within the Eastern Hundred Cities for this place shall cease to exist!”
“You are spouting nonsense—!” The schoolmaster angrily shouted, but before he could finish, Li Qiye threw him forward through many mountains, creating loud explosions. As the schoolmaster stood up from the ground that was now stained with his blood, not even a trace of Li Qiye’s shadow remained.
“Little Animal, hand over your life!” At this time, a scream came from the deepest place of the school. A person soared up high as divine rings rotated around his body. His torrential blood energy could cause even the earth to tremble!
The Prime Imperial Sire came in just a flash and let out an enraged cry, but Li Qiye had already left. The moment he saw the debris and remnants of the gate, he started to shiver from rage.
“Little Animal, if I don’t hack you into a thousand pieces, I swear that I will no longer be human!” In the end, the Prime Imperial Sire uttered a harsh oath that reverberated throughout the entire school.
“He is indeed a brute possessed by a mad dragon. He’s capable of destroying the geography despite only being a Royal Noble. He can even kill Ancient Saints as if they are mere dogs.” Many people were filled with dread after seeing this scene.
“An Immortal Physique is indeed amazing. Hell Suppressing Godly Physique — this is indeed a good technique, something that is capable of driving people crazy from jealousy!” A person couldn’t help but sigh in an envious lamentation.
In many people’s opinions, a Royal Noble fighting against an Ancient Saint was akin to courting death. But at this moment, an Ancient Saint could not block a single one of Li Qiye’s blows! And this was only a prelude; if being at minor completion was already this powerful, then wouldn’t he be able to sweep through the world once he reached grand completion!?
After leaving the school, Li Qiye ordered Sikong Toutian to keep a close eye on the Tiger’s Howl School. Then, he brought the girls to a different location.
“Will anything happen to my grandfather and Xiaodao?” Chi Xiaodie worriedly asked.
Li Qiye answered with a smile: “Xiaodao is definitely going to be okay. Without Xiaodao, what will they use to lure me into the trap? As for your grandfather, I don’t think there is anything to worry about either. He is being suppressed inside an ancient treasure, but it might turn out to be a good opportunity for him. It is possible that the ancient treasure that’s trapping him is the Evil Devouring Energy. If your grandfather could withstand this, then there will be a big chance for him to surpass his physique’s minor tribulation! This is a test for him; if he cannot pass this test, then he would not be able to go any further in the future regarding his Immortal Physique.”
After hearing Li Qiye’s answer, Chi Xiaodie sighed with relief and stopped worrying.
Li Qiye had his reasons for not saving the Heavenly King. Although the king was the descendant of the Lion Monarch and had a natural Saint Physique with great talents, he didn’t cultivate the Immortal Physique Law at a young age. Despite him managing to find the Immortal Physique Law of the Lion Monarch in the academy later on, it still was not enough to improve his grand completion Furious Saint Physique.
Even after his isolated cultivation session, he still couldn’t break through his personal limit. However, this suppression from the Tiger’s Howl School just might be able to stimulate his true potential.
With just one glance from a distance, Li Qiye immediately knew the Heavenly King’s situation. If he could break through his own limit, then his Immortal Physique cultivation would be as smooth as a flowering river! And so, Li Qiye purposefully left him suppressed in order to spur his untapped potential.
“Where are we going?” Li Qiye brought them around the Tiger’s Howl School, so Chen Baojiao became quite curious.
Li Qiye answered with a wide smile: “To a certain place. If the Tiger’s Howl School wishes to die, then I shall lend them a hand. However, if they know when to give up, then I will leave them with a place to live instead of refining this entire region. At that time, there will be no Tiger’s Howl School or White Tiger Grand Vein.”
“Refine this entire region?” Hearing these words, Li Shuangyan became quite astonished. Legends state that only Virtuous Paragons from kingdoms that could bestow divine titles were capable of such a feat.
“You will understand in due time.” Li Qiye revealed a mysterious grin.
***
“There will be no more Tiger’s Howl School within the Eastern Hundred Cities for this place shall cease to exist?” The fierce words that Li Qiye left behind for the schoolmaster had spread to the outside, and it caused many people to glance at those next to them.
“Let him come!” A gloomy voice came from the darkness of the Tiger’s Howl School. It continued on: “Even if his divine arts are invincible, as long as he sets foot inside our domain, there will be no way out. At that point, the invincible Immortal Physique Law and a Heaven’s Will Secret Law will belong to the Tiger’s Howl School!”
“I’m afraid the Heavenly Dao Academy will also involve itself…” In the darkness, the Tiger’s Howl Prime Imperial Sire spoke with deference.
“Hmph! Even if the academy comes, it will still be a path of no return!” The voice in the dark coldly rang again: “At that time, there will naturally be someone to deal with them.”
“Good, at that time, that little demon Li will be a fish stuck in our jar. Even if he is a reincarnated Virtuous Paragon, only death awaits him!” The Prime Imperial Sire excitedly declared.
“As long as we obtain these immortal laws, with our White Tiger Great Vein, we shall be prosperous in the future!” This gloomy voice was so emotionless that it instilled chills in the listeners.
After hearing these words, the Prime Imperial Sire couldn’t help but become emotional. Despite many geniuses appearing in their school, they still couldn’t compare to other Immortal Emperor lineages since they lacked merit laws of the emperor level.
If they could capture Li Qiye alive, his emperor laws would be within their grasps; the mere thought left them in ecstasy.
“Do we just kill our way in like this?” Chi Xiaodie couldn’t refrain from being concerned and said: “I heard that the four ominous graves of the school are amazing and could kill even Virtuous Paragons!”
“No, we won’t make our way in at this moment. Go inform them!” Li Qiye glanced at the school and smiled.
“Inform them?” Hearing these words, the group of girls couldn’t help but become surprised. They came in order to save Chi Xiaodao and his grandfather, so the best method was to attack before the enemy could prepare. Thus, Li Qiye’s order left them in disbelief.
Chapter 363 - Underground Secret
The announcement of Li Qiye rampaging throughout the Tiger’s Howl School set off waves across the Hundred Eastern Cities.
“He wants to destroy the Tiger’s Howl School?” Many people became dumbfounded after hearing such arrogance. One of them couldn’t help but speak sincere words: “The Tiger’s Howl School is a first rate sect with a powerful ancestral foundation. The lowest requirement for destroying this school has to be the appearance of a Virtuous Paragon, and this is under the condition that the ancestor of the school is not there!”
“That’s right. Although Li Qiye is indeed fierce, saying that he will destroy the school is a bit too crazy!” Many people continued to speculate that this matter was impossible while others believed that Li Qiye had reinforcements.
In the eyes of many others, without reinforcements, Li Qiye alone would not be able to destroy the school.
This was not without reason. Since the school was able to stand strong for so long, they naturally had some heaven-defying means. Plus, rumors indicated that they had four ominous graves that were erected after the deaths of the four divine beasts.
Legends state that the progenitor of the Tiger’s Howl School used his divine blood to refine these four ominous graves, turning them into the school’s foundation and firmly placing them under the school’s control. Some old tales claim that these graves once annihilated a Virtuous Paragon and even trapped an existence worthy of the investiture of a god.
“They’re just big words from a calf that doesn’t fear a tiger!” After hearing such boisterous words, a person coldly sneered: “He will surely die after entering the Tiger’s Howl School with no way out.”
“Just wait until the day of the full moon. Then, everything will become clear.” There were also those who adopted a wait-and-see attitude.
In fact, after Li Qiye’s departure, the school ordered a group to follow him, but they failed to catch up and returned empty-handed.
However, unbeknownst to many, Li Qiye did not go very far. He simply took a trip around the Tiger’s Howl earth vein to another location.
If the great vein of the TIger’s Howl School resembled a gigantic White Tiger, then the school’s gate was the tiger’s mouth! The entire vein spanned from south to north, resulting in a scene where the south was the mouth and the north was the tail.
Although the great vein was as fierce as a White Tiger, the mouth was the key location of this ancestral ground where the worldly essence filled the earth, creating a treasure ground. This was why they used this place to build their dao foundation along with the temples and halls!
However, at its tail was a barren land that ran for a thousand miles. This large area was empty without any vegetation or inhabitants; not even birds chose to fly above this land of death.
The worldly essence had dried out in this place without any signs of life. Even if this place was part of the Tiger’s Howl great vein, no one lived here so the school did not establish a branch at this place.
Li Qiye brought the girls to enter this empty and treeless landscape.
“What did we come here to do?” After entering this barren land, even Chi Xiaodie couldn’t help but ask. Right now, since they were facing a powerful enemy, they should be calculating and planning some strategies, but Li Qiye decided to come to this place that even birds had abandoned.
“To find coffins.” Li Qiye cheerfully said: “Since we want people to die, it won’t do if we don’t have any coffins.”
Needless to say, the girls did not believe his words. In fact, even Chi Xiaodie was skeptical. Nevertheless, they were curious so they could only follow him despite his secrecy.
“Millions of miles along with the endless vicissitudes of life… There are some things that will not change.” Stepping into this place, Li Qiye emotionally said as he stood before a huge, dry lake.
“Open!” Once Li Qiye circled around the dry lake, a divine light eventually surfaced in his sea of memories. A strand of universal light shot up and rushed into the ground in a split second.
“Rumble!” At this moment, the earth roared as the dry lake split apart like the opening of a door.
The group suddenly fell down, causing them to be startled. The moment they regained their wits, they found that the entrance on the lake had closed.
At this point, they took a look around to examine the ground that they were standing on and found countless broken walls and temples!
They now understood that they were standing within an underground city. This huge underground city was already destroyed; most likely, it was ravaged by a terrible war.
“What is this place?” Ruins were the only things within their horizons so the group of Chi Xiaodie was quite astonished.
“Tiger Emperor Citadel — an ancient and once-powerful existence.” Li Qiye took a quick glance around this place and answered.
“Tiger Emperor Citadel? Which lineage is this?” Li Shuangyan and the others glanced at each other in confusion since they had never heard of this lineage before.
In fact, it was not strange that they had not heard of this place because millions of years had passed and countless great powers had come and gone amidst the winding river of time.
Li Qiye brought them along through this ruined city and stopped at a broken ravine. Before them was a large lake. Even though it was smaller than the one at the surface, it was filled with rippling waves!
The group was quite amazed as they stood before this huge river since the rippling waves were not the only thing present, immortal energy was also drifting about.
This was not a lake, it was a heavenly accumulation formed by the condensation of worldly energy! A heavenly accumulation the size of a river — how could others not be shocked by this? This was enough to fuel an entire great power to become an everlasting pillar for an unshakable dynasty!
“What is it!?” Seeing this huge heavenly lake, all were dumbfounded. If they could cultivate and absorb the worldly essence in this place for one year, then it would be equivalent to cultivating outside for a hundred years.
“Thunk, thunk, thunk!” However, Li Qiye didn’t answer them. A thick, iron chain appeared in his grasp out of nowhere. Li Qiye then began to pull on it, emitting clanking sounds.
“This is the legendary Phoenix Treasure Iron!” Li Shuangyan immediately recognized the origin of this iron chain along with its scintillating divine glow.
She couldn’t help but take a deep breath. Using such a precious treasure iron to make chains — what kind of extravagant spending was this?
While the rest of the group was still lost in a daze, Li Qiye pulled a gigantic coffin out from the lake. This monstrous coffin was also made from Phoenix Treasure Iron, but the most terrifying thing was that there were many layers of seals above it. These seals were extremely powerful; they contained the suppression of True Gods, and it made people’s hair stand on end.
What could be in this coffin that warranted so many layers of powerful seals? It was as if they wished to refine the thing inside.
“I command you to open!” At this time, Li Qiye’s hands formed a seal as he chanted a mantra. A universal law with the appearance of a key rushed out from his sea of memories and into the coffin in just an instant.
A clicking sound appeared as if a lock had just been opened. At this time, the seals that locked this coffin appeared to come to life as they started to move. One layer after another, everything slowly became unlocked.
“Xsh—xshh—xshh!” Amidst the sounds of the coffin opening, under the careful gaze of the girls, the coffin was finally opened, but the item inside left them in a stupor.
Inside the coffin, one could only find a simple boulder. To be exact, it appeared to be a stone pillar, but it was completely flat. With runes coming together, it was as if the runes were trying to weave together to form words of the grand dao! The entire boulder appeared to be pristine and without any flaws.
“After millions of years of refinement, the evil finally disappeared so it went back to its original form!” Li Qiye gently tapped on the boulder and said: “If it wasn’t for the Tiger’s Howl School’s refusal to learn, I wouldn’t have decided to break their roots today!”
“What is this?” The perplexed Chi Xiaodie asked after seeing this boulder. Using a powerful seal that was comparable to the suppression of True Gods to trap a simple boulder — no one would believe such a tale.
“The Terra’s Root!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “The only reason why the school has this White Tiger Grand Vein is due to this root.”
“The Terra’s Root?” Li Shuangyan and the others had a hard time believing it after seeing such a boulder. However, after a careful look, this boulder did give off an extraordinary feeling since it was naturally formed and was without even the slightest flaw. It was not a precious stone, but those with keen eyes knew that it was even better than one.
“This land had once taken part in creation.” Li Qiye movingly said: “During the Ancient Ming Era, this land gave birth to five existences; one of them became the master and the others became the four servants. Since they were created by the heavens, these five existences became invincible rulers and created the Tiger Emperor Citadel. This was a giant monster that had reigned over a period of time in the Eastern Hundred Cities! Unfortunately, they did not cherish their futures and chose to embrace the evil path; they helped the tyrant and joined the Ancient Ming!”
Chapter 364 - Tiger Emperor Citadel
Just as Li Qiye said, this place gave birth to five extremely powerful spirits, and the master among them was formed from this Terra’s Root. The other four spirits were formed from the rivers and mountains with the images of a True Dragon, a White Tiger, a Vermilion Bird, and a Black Tortoise.
Unfortunately, although the leading spirit could be described to be unparalleled, it failed to cherish its fortunate creation from the heavens and allied itself with the tyrannical Ancient Ming.
That era belonged to the Ancient Ming, so after the Tiger Emperor Citadel joined the Ancient Ming, they swept through the world and suppressed the human race under their new banner.
At that time, as the Dark Crow, Li Qiye became infuriated and led numerous sages and generals of the human race to sweep through the Tiger Emperor Citadel. This was a thrilling grand battle and the killing shattered even the heaven and earth as blood flowed like rivers.
In the end, they managed to destroy the citadel, and from then on, it sank into the ground where the world would no longer know of its existence.
Li Qiye slayed the leading spirit and destroyed its body to ultimately sever the Terra’s Root. Then, he ordered his sages and True Gods to use a heaven-defying method to suppress this root underground in order to refine it for millions of years.
Since the leading spirit was created from this land, Li Qiye’s goal when he sealed the Terra’s Root underground was to allow it to — once again — nurture this land so that a miracle would manifest again.
As per Li Qiye’s expectations, this land finally had another creation. Following the refinement of the Terra’s Root, the endless worldly essence finally nurtured this entire place, allowing it to transform into a White Tiger Grand Vein.
Later on, the progenitor of the Tiger’s Howl School obtained this creation. He started out as a regular white tiger that eventually cultivated into a Tiger God and erected this timeless school.
“The Mortal Emperor World is the sanctuary of the human race, so how could anyone allow for an external race to disturb this peace!?” Li Qiye calmly told the tale: “The Tiger Emperor Citadel joining the Ancient Ming was akin to seeking their own death, so it was eventually destroyed by the human wise sages and sank into the earth. After many years, this place finally turned into a White Tiger Grand Vein; the Tiger’s Howl School came later.”
After hearing the tale, Chi Xiaodie and the others couldn’t help but become surprised. They didn’t expect that the school was founded on top of another monstrous heritage.
“How did you know that the Tiger Emperor Citadel was under this earth?” Chen Baojiao just had to ask.
“This is why I told you to read more; read more to know more!” Li Qiye smiled and gently knocked on Chen Baojiao’s forehead.
She then angrily glared at him in response. She knew that this would be his response, and she didn’t trust it one bit! However, even though she knew that it was not going to work, she still wanted to hear a different answer!
“It is time for this earth to change owners!” Li Qiye smiled and then shook his head to say: “Establishing a timeless sect is not easy. In consideration of their ancestors being able to surpass all tribulations, I initially didn’t want to take away their grand creation and the vein. Alas, it is quite a pity… Time after time, they are without eyes, thinking that the tiger could actually eat me. They’re merely seeking their own death.”
Li Shuangyan’s crowd remained silent. The school was now doomed to a tragedy that consisted of a severed grand vein. Even if it was lucky enough to survive, its future would certainly be on the decline.
Eventually, Li Qiye took out a piece of dao bone; this was Little Silly’s dao bone. Li Qiye was quite unwilling, but he ultimately said: “Go. Whether or not you can obtain this place’s new creation will be up to your own fate. I hope that in another hundred thousand years, you will be able to rise again from this land!” Having said that, he then threw the dao bone into the depths of the great lake.
“Boom!” With an explosion, the earth itself trembled as if a dragon had dove into a river. As a dragon roar resounded, the dao bone disappeared into the river’s depths!
Li Qiye gently sighed as he watched the dao bone disappear into the river made out of worldly essence. This place was a supreme treasure earth; if it wasn’t, then he wouldn’t have ordered the wise sages and True Gods to seal this place.
However, whether Little Silly could rise and defy the heavens would be up to its own fate. And even if it could, it might not possess its former memories.
Despite that, this would still be a good thing for Little Silly. At the very least, it was a rare opportunity since it would be reborn if it could seize the creation from this land!
Li Qiye calmed his thoughts and looked at the Terra’s Root within the coffin, then he told the girls: “Keep watch for me, I want to refine this place into a domain!”
After hearing his words, the girls felt a chill. Then, each of them, very carefully, went to surround Li Qiye in order to protect him.
Li Qiye took a deep breath and, with a boom, his master palace appeared. In the blink of an eye, the other Fate Palaces also emerged in an orderly fashion.
Li Qiye channeled his dao foundation as a primordial Kun Peng soared to the sky. Within the chaos, the six Fate Palaces arranged themselves in a mysterious order and instantly formed a world. With a loud bang, his six Fate Palaces appeared to be six pillars that shouldered this newly formed world!
Six palaces to form a domain, eight palaces to form a kingdom. At this time, with six Fate Palaces, Li Qiye could refine this world to shape it into his very own absolute domain!
As Li Qiye’s Fate Palaces were shouldering this vast domain, with a whistle, the Kun Peng flew into this area. As the primordial chaos ran rampant like a raging thunderstorm, it flapped its wings, wings that flooded this entire world.
This chaotic energy descended as if it was nourishing this vast space, as if it wanted to give birth to countless existences in the future.
“Go!” With a loud shout from Li Qiye, the sealed Terra’s Root was sucked in by Li Qiye’s domain.
“Let me give you life!” Li Qiye screamed out. The master palace opened up as the four images inside the palace appeared. At this time, the endless green brilliance of the Tree of Life poured down; the water of life flowed endlessly, and the fire of life burned brightly, giving this land a new hope.
The most powerful thing was the Pillar of Life. It had underwent a great change after absorbing the mysterious and ancient runes from the Void Gate. With strange hums, the pillar directly shot out orderly divine chains to form supreme universal laws on this earth. All existences and universal laws were derived from Li Qiye’s will!
At this time, Li Qiye’s Pillar of Life was simply too powerful; it could directly create supreme orders. Li Qiye’s will was the ruler of all things — this was an incomparable dominance!
With the assistance of the four images and the supreme refinement of the universal laws, the Terra’s Root was embedded into Li Qiye’s absolute domain. It furiously spewed out worldly essence to nourish this land as if it would start to erect kingdoms and capitals after new living beings were born.
However, inside Li Qiye’s endless territory, even the Terra’s Root’s powerful worldly essence was far from enough. At least, it was not enough for this short period of time.
“Go!” Li Qiye uttered a cry once more. His absolute domain appeared in front of the lake before him. With nonstop deafening booms, this domain began to swallow the worldly essence in the lake!
In this short moment, it was as if the mountains and rivers were reversed as countless worldly essences were siphoned by Li Qiye’s absolute domain. In an instant, his domain was filled with dense and pervasive worldly essence.
While the unstoppable devouring continued, his Kun Peng dao foundation turned into strands of supreme universal laws that descended and coiled themselves around the Terra’s Root. These strands then engraved themselves into the root’s body and started the refinement process.
“Buzz!” Li Qiye’s True Fate came out of his master palace. Although the sound was very quiet, like a thin pair of wings flapping in the vast heaven and earth, the True Fate appeared inside this absolute domain in just a flash.
“Poof—Poof—Poof—!” Refined flames spewed out everywhere. Li Qiye’s True Fate carved his divine will onto this Terra’s Root and turned it into the root’s new heart. This way, the root and Li Qiye’s Fate Palace would forever be connected. Now, Li Qiye’s will could control the root from this point on. Although the root was granted its own consciousness by Li Qiye, it was in the form of Li Qiye’s will!
At the same time, with the Pillar of Life continuously carving orderly laws onto the root along with the burning flame of life’s refinement, the root became even more primordial as if it was returning to the true origin. All of its flaws were incinerated by the powerful flame of life into dissipating green smoke…
The day of the full moon was ten more days away, but it passed by in just an instant.
In the last ten days, a huge storm was set off in the Eastern Hundred Cities, and many secret channels began to act; each began their own preparations.
Numerous powerful experts maintained a great distance from the school despite the school inviting all the sects in the region to come and watch the execution. The vast majority of the sects were not willing to become involved in these muddled waters, so even those who came to spectate did not become the school’s guests, they merely stayed far away to watch.
There were even those who came with hidden intentions. They concealed themselves in the dark to watch the development, hoping that they could take advantage of the situation!
Chapter 365 - The Start Of The Battle
The day of the full moon arrived very quickly as countless experts gathered outside of the Tiger’s Howl School. Some came from the great powers while others from the smaller ones, and don’t forget about the vagabonds as well.
At this time, the Tiger’s Howl School’s gate was wide open. The important defensive locations and grand formations were relaxed to give a hospitable appearance. Although there were sounds of explosions and moving treasures, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King still could not escape from the ancient treasure.
Seeing this situation of carelessness, many people were startled and murmured to themselves: “The Tiger’s Howl School is too confident. It looks like they are more afraid that Li Qiye wouldn’t come!”
The experts from all over the world held their breaths and gazed towards the school, eagerly awaiting for Li Qiye’s arrival.
Meanwhile, the inside of the school was quiet. Although its disciples were still there, it was frighteningly calm as if respiration was the only sound to be heard.
Time began to pass, but Li Qiye still hadn’t appeared. At this time, a spectator outside the school became impatient and grunted: “Why is Li Qiye not here yet!?”
Compared to the spectators outside, the school was able to remain patient. They were not in a rush to start the execution; it was as if they would not start until Li Qiye arrived.
In fact, to the school, executing Chi Xiaodao was meaningless. Chi Xiaodao and the Heavenly King were just bait for Li Qiye. If both of them died, what would they use to force Li Qiye to take the bait?
However, time continued to go on as the sun rose higher and higher. The observers outside of the school began an uproar: “It has been half a day, don’t tell me that Li Qiye is too scared to come?”
“That is impossible, a fierce brute like Li Qiye wouldn’t be afraid of anything.” An expert who had watched the battle at the Heavenly Dao Academy shook his head and said: “The word ‘fear’ is not part of this Little Demon’s vocabulary. He even slew people from the Ancient Kingdoms, so how could just a little Tiger’s Howl School frighten him?”
“Hey, this is not necessarily the case. Inside the academy, there were those from the academy protecting him; naturally, he would be more courageous. Now, this place is the home ground of the Tiger’s Howl School — the fierce beast’s lair. I’m afraid he doesn’t have the courage to seek his death here.” A disciple from an Eastern Hundred great power sneered.
After the battle at the academy, Li Qiye could be said to have offended a lot of great powers, so many of them considered him as an eyesore — a thorn in one’s side!
“Heh, this Li guy is not coming!” Another disciple from a great power said with an offensive attitude: “Maybe this guy is hiding at some turtle’s cave right now, not daring to come out. Maybe he is already pissing his pants and shivering in fear!”
A few powerful experts furrowed their brows to these offensive comments, especially those who were from the minor sects or walked on the vagrant way that supported Li Qiye.
“Wow, you are so amazing! To be able to say these words… But where were you when Li Qiye was massacring everything on the battlefield? Are you courageous enough to say these words in front of Li Qiye? Hah, I’m afraid you would be the one pissing your pants while standing before him. Who the hell do you think you are? Li Qiye killed Hu Yue, slew Ba Xia, and ended Heavenly Prince Qing Xuan; all of these geniuses were decimated by him, and all of them were renowned throughout the Eastern Hundred Cities! Which great character have you killed?” A cultivator was annoyed with the comments from the great power’s disciple so they ironically replied.
“You!” The great power’s disciple glared with his eyes, but the cultivator who retorted sarcastically also had some background, so he glared back without showing any signs of weakness.
Such minor conflicts could only be considered the interlude. The great characters who were actually waiting for this battle managed to stay patient.
“This is a death trap!” A wise master carefully observed the school from afar and eventually said: “Regardless of whether Li Qiye comes or not, he will not be able to change the outcome. If he comes, his death is all but certain; same with the grandfather and grandson. If he doesn’t, then those two will still die!”
After hearing these words, the wisdom master’s junior couldn’t help but say: “But Li Qiye is a powerful brute! He cultivates an Immortal Physique and possesses two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures. The school does not have anything that can stop these weapons, not even the Prime Imperial Sire is capable of doing so. I feel like Li Qiye’s chances of victory is a lot higher.”
The wisdom master shook his head and said: “If it was only the Tiger’s Howl School, then Li Qiye indeed has the greater chance of victory. Even though the four ominous graves are extremely powerful, with two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures, as long as he does not become enamored by the love of battle and strikes quickly before leaving, then he could still escape under the weapons’ protection. But now, the situation has completely changed. Even if he has emperor weapons along with powerful allies, it would still be going head-first into a net if he enters.”
Without a doubt, this wisdom master knew information that others were not privy to, along with a few surprising secrets.
“The Tiger’s Howl School has backup?” After hearing the words of his senior, the junior became quite disturbed. In the end, Li Qiye had many enemies in the Eastern Hundred Cities. Many would find great joy in exterminating him.
“Not only backup!” The wisdom master sighed and said: “This is something that would slay god and devils if they stand in its way. This is a dead end, there is only death awaiting him!”
The group of juniors all became aghast. They quickly asked: “What kind of character did the Tiger’s Howl School invite?”
“An extremely frightening existence, extremely frightening!” The wisdom master looked at the school and sighed softly.
Now, the sun finally reached the apex in the sky, and the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster sneeringly said: “Hmph, that Little Demon Li doesn’t dare to come. Take them out and execute them; the younger one first, then the old!” The crowd’s furor resounded as the execution order was given out. Those who had a vendetta against Li Qiye were delighted and one even laughed: “Li Qiye is really a turtle hiding in his shell!”
“Yep. What is this about a fierce brute? In my eyes, he is only a weak, cowardly dog. He only knows how to bully the weak and fear the strong. At the critical moment when facing a powerful sect, what is he now doing besides hiding in fear…” Another disciple from a great power became very elated. It was as if Li Qiye not daring to show up was an extremely satisfying event in his mind.
“Pa!” Before he could finish speaking, a violent slap sent all of his teeth to the ground, causing him to lose all sense of direction.
“Who, who sneak-attacked your father!?” This cultivator struggled to stand up and finally screamed out.
“Who do you think it is?” At this point, a lazy voice spoke. Li Qiye slowly arrived with Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao at his sides.
In an instant, Li Qiye stood right outside of the Tiger’s Howl School. He then took a glance at all the heroes from all over the world and calmly said: “There are those who are annoyed with me, and I personally hope that they will step up. I am a very fair person; those who wish to get even with me can step out so that I can deal with you along with the Tiger’s Howl School today!”
However, no one dared to step out as everyone held their breaths. The badgering disciples from earlier went pale and hid at the back. Not to mention stepping out, they didn’t even dare to meet Li Qiye’s eyes; their legs wouldn’t stop trembling.
Who did not know about Li Qiye’s notoriety? Even the descendants from the Ancient Kingdoms were slain like dogs, so how could these ordinary disciples possibly compare to them? They were simply mouthing off at Li Qiye since he did not appear.
Li Qiye was too lazy to care about these insignificant characters. He stood right outside the school and stared at the recently rebuilt gate; he couldn’t help but reveal a smirk. He then stomped down with his foot and, with a “boom”, the recently rebuilt gate immediately collapsed again under this blow. Li Qiye then entered the school as if he was taking a leisurely stroll.
“Little Animal, you’re seeking your death!” This enraged countless Tiger’s Howl disciples. They furiously screamed and several hundred disciples who were guarding key locations suddenly rushed forward.
To a great power, the gate was their face and honor. Li Qiye stomping on their gate was equivalent to stomping on the Tiger’s Howl School’s face.
However, even when facing the murderous onslaught of several hundred disciples, Li Qiye didn’t even bat an eye. He still gracefully sauntered into the school.
“Zhang!” Suddenly, the sounds of a sword and saber appeared. Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao immediately took action. One turned her sword into Yin and Yang as a grand formation came down murderously with the resonation of myriad swords. The other’s saber could even sweep through the heavens with its invincible momentum. This saber could annihilate all in its domineering path.
One with the Six Dao Sword and the other with the Tyrannical Immortal Saber. Both of them attacking at the same time painted the sky with a sanguineous picture. In just a short amount of time, several hundred disciples died before they could even scream.
This scene left many in horror. Li Qiye’s ferocity was something known by many people, but they didn’t expect that the flower-like beauties, Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao, would also be so crazily powerful. They both had auras capable of sweeping through the world.
“This is what a real man looks like!” Countless people were envious of Li Qiye’s maids for being so heaven-defying. However, Li Qiye was even more heaven-defying to have such heaven’s proud daughters as his maids in the first place!
Chapter 366 - Dual Dominating Beauties
“Kill them!” The Tiger’s Howl disciples roared and suddenly, a few thousand disciples rushed out with a surging murderous momentum like a grand army. The school being able to survive until this day was not without reason.
“Get back!” At this time, the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster yelled out and recalled all the disciples who were ready to kill. He knew that ordinary disciples — no matter the number — were only mere fodder.
“Zhang!” However, before the several thousand disciples could retreat, a sword hymn soared through the nine heavens and the saber swept through the eight desolaces. The Six Dao Yin Yang Sword Formation flew out from Li Shuangyan’s hand. This extremely monstrous sword formation created thousands of blades of wind that acted like a meat grinder; in just a split second, a rain of blood appeared inside the formation as scraps of flesh flew everywhere.
The Tyrannical Immortal Saber in the sky swept through all by cutting down mountains as if they were leaves. This invincible saber caused blood to spurt like a spring, creating flowers of blood.
At this moment, Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao paved the path for Li Qiye with their domineering might. This was a path to enter the ancestral ground of the Tiger’s Howl School, leaving rivers of blood and mountains of carnage behind them.
Such a murderous momentum caused countless spectators to become breathless. Even Ancient Saints would surely die if they tried to stop this unstoppable force!
“Too domineering!” Seeing such a scene, no matter who they were, chills would spread throughout their shivering bodies.
The Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster’s expression became extremely unsightly. He didn’t even have time to respond, so he almost vomited blood from anger. These several thousand disciples, that were the pillar of the school, were massacred in just a blink.
He wanted to invoke the grand formations due to wrath, but the deep voice of the Prime Imperial Sire appeared behind him: “Let them enter!”
A moment later, no one dared to stop the group of three as they quickly entered the heartland of the school!
When Li Qiye stepped into the ambush range of the school, all of those who were inside took a sigh of relief. He had entered the trap and there was no chance for him to leave!
At this point, numerous people right outside of the school were also eagerly watching the scene unfolding before them.
“You choose to not walk on the paved path towards heaven and instead barged into hell without an entrance; Little Animal, today will be your demise!” The Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster clenched his teeth and declared with all of his hatred towards Li Qiye.
Li Qiye looked at him and lazily waved his sleeve to say: “Heaven and hell are of no difference to me; when I want to enter, I shall do so and none can stop me!”
“Such audacity!” A cold voice appeared, signaling the arrival of the Tiger’s Howl Prime Imperial Sire. The forty-nine divine rings on his body slowly emerged like forty-nine grand dao, suppressing this location and rendering others out of breath.
With a chilling pair of eyes that were capable of piercing all things like lightning, he glared at Li Qiye’s group of three and emotionlessly uttered: “Since you are here, don’t even dream about leaving!”
“You are mistaken. I haven’t thought about escaping at all!” Li Qiye calmly smiled: “I have to crush this place before leaving!”
“Still blustering right before your doom!” The Prime Imperial Sire’s gaze became frightening as he chillingly declared: “If you surrender now, I can grant you a painless death as long as you hand over your Immortal Emperor Life Treasures and your Immortal Physique Law. If not, then I will let all of you experience a fate worse than death!”
Li Qiye leisurely gave him a look and shook his head: “If you have any methods, then go ahead and use them. However, before I take action, I will give you a piece of merciful advice: evacuate your young and old. Then, at least you will have some blooming seeds for the future. Otherwise, when this location collapses and they start to scream for help… The heaven and earth will not answer their prayers.”
“Hahaha…” The Prime Imperial Sire gave a crazed laughter. Many of the elders and protectors of the Tiger’s Howl School also roared with laughter as if this was the funniest thing they had ever heard.
The Prime Imperial Sire replied with a sneer: “Foolish thing, I’ll show you that fate today! Kill the Chi brat!”
Suddenly, the experts from the school immediately pushed Chi Xiaodao outside while the Prime Imperial Sire blocked Li Qiye’s path.
The Prime Imperial Sire continued with a cold grin: “Just like you said, your prayers today will be unanswered by both the heaven and earth! I will first execute the Chi brat, then I’ll slowly kill those by your side!”
The cultivators who were watching in the distance became drawn in. Killing Chi Xiaodao before Li Qiye’s very eyes would be a psychological attack in order to undermine his morale.
However, Li Qiye was not flustered and replied with a calm smile instead: “Go ahead, what are you waiting for?”
Li Qiye’s attitude of not caring if Chi Xiaodao was executed right before him surprised the big shots of the Tiger’s Howl School, including the Prime Imperial Sire.
“Pluff!” While the upper echelon of the school was still a bit taken aback, a light suddenly flashed as the heads of the experts that were marching Chi Xiaodao fell to the ground before they could even react, resulting in blood spraying everywhere.
The killer was Chi Xiaodao’s executioner. A swing of his blade meant beheading another victim! He rescued Chi Xiaodao with an astonishing speed. In a brief moment, this executioner brought Chi Xiaodao right to Li Qiye’s side.
This sudden development happened too quickly, and no one could react. All of the school’s upper echelon was in a stupor; the executioner was their own disciple, so why did he suddenly betray the school and save Chi Xiaodao at the very last minute?
Even the spectators outside were stunned by this sudden change of events with the betrayal of the school’s own disciple.
“Who are you, how dare you betray your own sect!” The Prime Imperial Sire was shaking with anger. Such a prime opportunity was ruined by a traitor.
However, the executioner suddenly transformed into someone else in an instant and cheerfully laughed: “Who said your father was a disciple from your school!?”
Who else could this person be besides Sikong Toutian? He had already accepted Li Qiye’s order to infiltrate the school, and it was from his information that Li Qiye was able to plan all of this!
“Boy, you owe me your life now!” Sikong Toutian said with a grin towards Chi Xiaodao.
“Good, you guys can leave!” After saving Chi Xiaodao, Li Qiye told the group.
“You want to go!?” The Prime Imperial Sire was furious. Such an eventful play was ruined, so he ruthlessly exclaimed: “You have entered an inescapable net. You cannot fly even if you had wings, so just accept your death!” Finished speaking, he stepped forward while sending out all of the oppressive might of his forty-nine rings.
“You alone wish to stop me? Li Qiye laughed as he glanced at the Prime Imperial Sire and leisurely continued: “If this is all there is to your plan, then it is a pity.”
“Taking care of a little demon like you is not a difficult matter!” At this time, another dreadful voice appeared.
“Boom!” An old man stepped out and quickly blocked the path of retreat of Li Qiye’s group. The earth itself shook upon his arrival.
The old man did not have an imposing stature, but he still had an extremely overbearing presence as if his hidden power could erupt at any time.
“The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Furious Immortal Saint Country!” After seeing this old man, a sect master from the previous generation — right outside of the Tiger’s Howl School — emotionally uttered a cry: “I thought he had already decided to live in seclusion? He is coming into being once more!”
“The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country is rumored to be an incredible Heavenly Sovereign; he has a grand completion Tyrannical Saint Physique!”
Many people had heard of this legendary character since he was still renowned during the Difficult Dao Era.
“He might have already entered the Heavenly King realm at the start of his retirement. When his Tyrannical Saint Physique was completed, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King had only just started his rise to prominence!” A person movingly stated.
The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country was said to be unfathomable, and his grand completion physique was even more dreadful. It was one of the eighteen Saint Physiques, and it contained an unrivaled power at grand completion. This was something capable of instilling fear in all existences.
Li Qiye glanced at the Prime Imperial Sire then the ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country before he leisurely smiled: “Only a minor character that’s not worthy for me to take action.”
Such arrogant words made people glance at each other. This was at least a Heavenly Sovereign, and he also had a grand completion Saint Physique!
However, after remembering how Li Qiye had managed to kill everything in his path, they felt that he indeed had the capability to boast like this.
“Take care of the Prime Imperial Sire first.” Li Qiye withdrew his gaze and commanded Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao.
Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao stepped forward without saying anything. One with the Six Dao Sword and the other with the Tyrannical Immortal Saber… With these invincible weapons in their hands, both of their auras surged.
“Ignorant fools, mere mayflies wanting to shake the great tree!” The Prime Imperial Sire angrily rebuked for being looked down upon by Li Qiye. With a dark expression, the forty-nine divine rings opened completely as a Heavenly Sovereign’s power quickly came crashing down towards Chen Baojiao and Li Shuangyan.
In this instant, Li Shuangyan seemed to turn into a blooming sacred lotus. With immortal light everywhere, she quickly passed through the suppressing rings of the Prime Imperial Sire.
With the sacred light protecting her, Li Shuangyan remained untouched by myriad laws and the heavenly dao! This was her Void Imperfection Physique!
Shoutout to Winirka for the updated link!
Chapter 367 - Battle Against The Tiger’s Howl School
In a split second, Li Shuangyan moved at an incredible speed to pass through the Prime Imperial Sire’s divine rings. Her half white half black Six Dao Sword pierced through everything straight to the middle of the Imperial Sire’s eyebrows.
The Prime Imperial Sire became aghast and quickly flipped his palm over. With that, a myriad of pulsing laws came down like a furious dragon.
“Plufff—” The sword went straight through the Prime Imperial Sire’s palm seal, instantly spilling blood. The Six Dao Sword showed no mercy as it penetrated his hand.
Amidst all of this, the heavenly palm seal and myriad suppression laws still couldn’t touch Li Shuangyan. Under countless laws and the power of the grand dao, Li Shuangyan was still like a fish in water — free to come and go!
“Impossible!” Seeing such a scene, countless people uttered a cry in shock. How could she actually be impervious to myriad dao!?
The Prime Imperial Sire was at a disadvantage after the first exchange, and this left him with a shocked expression. He stared at Li Shuangyan in disbelief and shouted: “The Void Imperfection Physique! And it’s at minor completion!”
In this world, only the Void Imperfection Immortal Physique was untouchable by a myriad of dao. This physique was indeed the nemesis of many dao laws since they were useless before it.
“Void Imperfection Physique!” Many became dumbfounded when they heard this. It was already frightening that Li Qiye cultivated the Hell Suppressing Physique, but his maid right now was cultivating one of the twelve Immortal Physiques as well!
“Well, with your cultivation, even the Void Imperfection Physique won’t save you!” The Prime Imperial Sire let out a cold smile. With a rumbling explosion, a divine sword appeared above his head, spewing and devouring essences at the same time. This soul-stealing sword caused others to shiver without being cold.
“This is the Virtuous Paragon True Treasure of a great paragon that had been bestowed a title!” Seeing this divine sword with its own consciousness hovering about the Prime Imperial Sire, someone couldn’t help but emotionally exclaim.
“Boom!” At the same time, six Fate Palaces appeared above Li Shuangyan’s head to immediately form a domain. The hymn of a sword formation rang as the Six Dao Sword turned into a gigantic Six Dao Yin Yang Sword Formation that entered this absolute domain.
“Zhang—zhang—zhang!” In the blink of an eye, each sword beam became even larger than the heavenly pillars inside Li Shuangyan’s domain. The sword beams utilized its supreme array to trap the Prime Imperial Sire right away.
“Six palaces! She already has six palaces at the Enlightened Being realm… This means that she was once a Supreme Noble!” It was indeterminable whether the spectators were envious or jealous at this scene.
The Void Imperfection Physique alone warranted envy, but now they found out that she opened six palaces! The eyes of the spectators quickly reddened from greed; how could other geniuses get by in this world if she was here?
“Even an absolute sword formation domain cannot stop me!” The Prime Imperial Sire uttered a loud roar as his forty-nine divine rings turned into a world; he wanted to tear apart the sword formation. At the same time, his divine sword also unleashed a slash that was capable of slicing the stars and severing the grand dao!
“Don’t you even think about escaping!” Chen Baojiao cried out in response. Her Ancient Saint aura suddenly and fiercely erupted. However, the most ferocious thing was the Tyrannical Immortal Saber in her hand. One saber to punish the heavens with its Heaven Traversing Eight Saber technique. This explosive power was too terrifying.
“Zhang!” The saber broke through the plethora of worlds as it shot through the sky like the blade of a True God annihilating all of the worlds. An endless divine power rested in the bright glint of the saber as if it had already once annihilated the gods of this world.
The Tyrannical Immortal Saber and the Heaven Traversing Eight Saber technique — these were items passed down from the Legendary Era. The moment these two things combined their might, the resulting power could only cause others to shudder!
“Bang!” This heaven traversing blade actually fought against the Virtuous Paragon divine blade of the Prime Imperial Sire. However, Chen Baojiao was still only of the Ancient Saint realm, so she had to take several steps back from the blow.
“Get lost!” But at this time, Chen Baojiao’s stubborn temper erupted as she yelled. Her body suddenly became bright and, at this moment, she crazily absorbed the worldly essence along with myriad dao. The power of the dao around her body created an extremely terrifying storm that eventually aggregated in her blade in just one second.
“Zhang!” Another technique from the eight saber arts was unleashed from her rage. It severed the horizon and firmly knocked back the Prime Imperial Sire’s divine sword. Even the divine rings around his body were pushed back from the powerful storm!
At this moment, Chen Baojiao was surrounded by a terrifying storm that consisted of the grand dao and worldly essence. Its power could crush all things, and it accumulating on the blade increased her strike’s effectiveness by several dozen times.
“What physique is this?” Many people sucked in through their teeth in confusion after seeing this explosive grand dao storm on her body.
The Tyrannical Sacred Spring Physique not only increased her cultivation by leaps and bounds, but it also allowed for her to absorb the worldly essence to create this terrifying storm!
Even though Chen Baojiao did not open six palaces like Li Shuangyan, her physique allowed for her cultivation to quickly catch up to Li Shuangyan in just a few short years, allowing her to reach the Ancient Saint realm.
At this moment, Li Shuangyan was a seven celestials Enlightened Being and was one step away from Ancient Saint. Chen Baojiao had to restart her cultivation from the beginning after destroying her foundation, but she still managed to catch up. This was the strength of the Tyrannical Sacred Spring Physique!
This physique was not necessarily stronger than the Void Imperfection Physique, but it was also not likely to be any weaker than the Immortal Physiques. This was an ultimate and supreme physique!
“Kill!” Li Shuangyan let out a cry as her hand moved the formation arrays. The moment it opened, cries of dragons and tigers emerged as if millions of prehistoric beasts were rushing out. This was the Six Beasts Formation; it had an extraordinary origin. The moment these beasts rushed out, they used their crushing momentum to hunt down all enemies!
At the same time, her True Fate also jumped out of her master palace and used an unparalleled momentum to attack.
Chen Baojiao also uttered a battle cry and unleashed a horizontal slash, that carried the overbearing grand dao storm, like a storm goddess.
Even as a Jewel Sovereign, the Prime Imperial Sire was startled by these strikes. He quickly grabbed the divine sword and took out a shield for his other hand. His shield was also a Virtuous Paragon True Treasure.
“Boom!” With a deafening explosion, the Prime Imperial Sire used the shield to slam straight towards Li Shuangyan and sliced his sword towards Chen Baojiao. He understood that the Tiger’s Howl Merit Laws were useless before Li Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique. Even his Jewel Sovereign cultivation wouldn’t do unless he had a Heaven’s Will Secret Law! Thus, he used the shield to meet the enemy, using his powerful brute strength.
“There is no justice in this world!” The actions taken by Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao astonished even the spectators outside.
A once Supreme Noble who was now a seven celestials Enlightened Being actually had a minor completion Immortal Physique. This allowed for her to even surpass the confinements of levels and directly fight against a Heavenly Sovereign!
The other person was an Ancient Saint with an unknown physique. However, with just a glance, one could tell that this physique was only stronger than Saint Physiques, no weaker. And not to mention the divine saber in her hand that was capable of sweeping through the eight desolaces.
Even though the Prime Imperial Sire was a Jewel Sovereign that could easily kill Enlightened Beings and Ancient Saints under ordinary situations, he was not able to kill them because of the combined efforts of Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao.
“I can forgive Li Qiye for cultivating an Immortal Physique, but his two maids… One person has an Immortal Physique while the other has an unknown powerful physique! Is there any justice in this world? Does he want to use physiques to bully the rest of the world?” A person murmured right outside of the school.
Countless covetous glimmers appeared in people’s gazes. The appearance of these physiques meant that Li Qiye had at least two Immortal Physique Laws. Even Immortal Emperor lineages craved for these laws, so who could be exempt from such desires?
The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Furious Immortal Saint Country was also alerted. Even though the Saint Country boasted of having an Immortal Physique Law, its Lower Tyrannical Immortal Law had flaws despite being complete! How could he not be stimulated when two Immortal Physique Laws appeared right before him?
“Little Brat, be smart and surrender. This Imperial Advisor can grant you a peaceful death!” At this time, the ex-Imperial Advisor stepped forward with a domineering momentum, attempted to suppress everything in Li Qiye’s direction.
His own cultivation was very powerful, and his Tyrannical Saint Physique had already reached grand completion. This allowed for him to challenge even Heavenly Kings despite only being a Heavenly Sovereign!
“With only you?” Li Qiye responded with a carefree laugh without batting an eye.
“Ba—ba!” But before Li Qiye and the ex-Imperial Advisor could begin their fight, an extremely terrifying lightning tribulation descended from the sky. In just a second, it became an ocean of torrential lightning followed by an evil energy that soared to the sky.
“Bang!” The earth cracked after a loud explosion. Everyone then heard a cracking sound; the old treasure that was suppressing the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King suddenly blew apart into several pieces and flew out everywhere.
“Open!” After a sound that was akin to a dragon’s roar, one could make out a golden lion capable of devouring the heaven and earth suddenly turn into a huge mystical form. It powerfully pierced through the sea of lightning.
“No way!” Such a sudden change left the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster in shock. This ancient treasure was something passed down throughout the school’s history and was extremely powerful. However, it was actually crushed by someone today!
“Hahahaha! I have finally shattered this last tribulation!” An imposing voice resonated as a lion-like old man appeared in front of everyone.
“The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King! He actually succeeded!” Seeing this old man fight his way out of the ancient treasure’s suppression, many people were moved and murmured: “Is this a minor completion Immortal Physique? It seems that the rumors were true; the heavenly king had actually found his ancestor’s unbeatable Immortal Physique Law!”
In a split second, Li Shuangyan moved at an incredible speed to pass through the Grand Imperial Sire’s divine rings. Her half white half black Six Dao Sword pierced through everything straight to the middle of the Imperial Sire’s eyebrows.
The Grand Imperial Sire became aghast and quickly flipped his palm over. With that, a myriad of pulsing laws came down like a furious dragon.
“Plufff—” The sword went straight through the Grand Imperial Sire’s palm seal, instantly spilling blood. The Six Dao Sword showed no mercy as it penetrated his hand.
Amidst all of this, the heavenly palm seal and myriad suppression laws still couldn’t touch Li Shuangyan. Under countless laws and the power of the grand dao, Li Shuangyan was still like a fish in the waters — free to come and go!
Chapter 368 - Tiger’s Howl Ancestor
“Grandpa!” Seeing this old man that resembled a lion, Chi Xiaodao was both surprised and glad as he immediately shouted.
At this time, the pair of lion-like eyes of the old man hovered upon the ex-Imperial Advisor from the Saint Country, then he loudly laughed: “So it turns out to be the ex-Imperial Advisor; you actually got involved in these muddy waters!”
“Amazing, it seems that you have truly found your ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law. Nothing can be better since this is the thing our Saint Country requires!” The ex-Imperial Advisor was not intimidated and instead was rather ecstatic.
In fact, they suppressed the Heavenly King in order to test whether or not he actually had the Immortal Physique Law. To find out that this was the answer, it was actually good news to them. No matter what, they wished to capture him alive and seize his physique law!
“Enough talking, it’s time to fight!” The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King laughed wildly like a lion. In just a second, the Inner Physique before his chest suddenly became bright and was brimming with immortal power, causing his blood energy to surge, promoting him into an invincible tyrannical lion.
“The minor completion Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique!” Seeing the frightening immortal power on the Heavenly King’s body after his physique erupted, many people were shocked with envy!
“Just in time. I’d like to see your ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law!” The ex-Imperial Advisor also roared. An immortal power surged from his body as well; it was dauntingly similar to the Heavenly King. At this time, universal laws began to resonate. These laws frantically increased the advisor’s battle power and blood energy for a short period of time.
“This is also the Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique, but it is from the Lower Immortal Tyrannical Physique Law!” A person emotionally exclaimed after seeing the old advisor’s state.
The Lower Immortal Tyrannical Physique Law was the defining art of the Furious Immortal Saint Country. This art could be cultivated into the Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique, but not just anyone in the Saint Country would be able to cultivate this law. Unless they were from the main branch, one would need to greatly contribute to the country and have their loyalty tested.
Without a doubt, the ex-Imperial Advisor satisfied all of the conditions to cultivate this immortal law!
“Is the fate of this world going to be decided by Immortal Physiques now?” A dumbfounded person murmured. Earlier, Li Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique and Chen Baojiao’s invincible nameless physique were already amazing enough, but now two Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physiques came out of nowhere.
Seeing Immortal Physiques would normally be a rare sight, but now, one appeared after another — this was too ridiculous.
“Slay!” The Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique’s essence was in its hegemonic nature of ruling by force. It could instantly increase the user’s cultivation, battle power, and blood energy to an insane level, allowing the user to easily fight against a much more powerful existence! Not to mention, there were no negative side-effects!
At this time, the Heavenly King and the ex-Imperial Advisor were like two crazed lions. The two of them wildly cried out and fought in the sky, fiercely exchanging blows. Their extremely ferocious fight caused others to lose their minds.
“Do you guys only have these kinds of means?” Li Qiye was without an enemy, so he glanced at the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster and said with a smile: “If this is all there is to it, then you have left me very disappointed.” Finish speaking, his Hell Suppressing Godly Physique suddenly erupted.
“Bang!” Li Qiye’s foot heavily stomped down, tearing the heaven and earth asunder.
“Rumble!” Even though the surrounding area completely collapsed, Li Qiye did not stop; one stomp after another, his feet rained down upon this land.
“Bang—bang—bang!” The blasts resounded across the world. In just a short moment, the Tiger’s Howl School was facing a cataclysm as an extremely powerful force tore apart the earth. Li Qiye was the center of all of this! He used a crushing momentum to break mountains and temples one after another. This caused all the Tiger’s Howl experts to turn pale as if the end was approaching.
“The Hell Suppressing Godly Physique — another minor completion Immortal Physique!” Even the cultivators in the distance felt their strength sapped from their bodies under the domineering might of this Immortal Physique.
“How can any of us live in this world? Today, so many minor completion Immortal Physiques have appeared. Right now, Li Qiye and Li Shuangyan have minor completion Immortal Physiques; if they become Virtuous Paragons in the future and obtain grand completion Immortal Physiques, then even an Immortal Emperor would have a hard time suppressing them!” A great character lamented with pain.
“Open the ancestral foundation!” The schoolmaster was deathly pale as he crazily shouted. At this time, the school wanted to start up their ancestral foundation no matter the cost.
After his command, wave after wave of universal laws — as big as stars — rushed out from the school’s ancestral ground. Under the support of a massive sum of refined jades, the school was able to open its ancestral foundation. A long universal law then locked this earth and sealed the firmaments; it finally managed to stop Li Qiye from using his Immortal Physique to destroy the school’s ancestral ground.
“Little Animal, if we don’t mince you into pieces today, we will never let this go until we cease to exist!” The schoolmaster couldn’t help but scream in rage. How could he not be hurt after seeing their ancestral ground become so damaged?
“I’m afraid that using just your ancestral foundation won’t do. It won’t be me who will be minced, it shall be I who will stomp your Tiger’s Howl School into nothingness!” Li Qiye calmly declared with a smile.
“Ignorant brat, our immemorial ancestral foundation shall never fall. Hmph, a mere mayfly like you dares to even dream about shaking us!?” At this time, a cold voice appeared as if a dead person was crawling up from the ground.
At this time, four Ancient Saints carried a palanquin outside. The old man who was laying on top of it only had a few strands of white hair left, plus his entire body appeared to be a dried up skeleton; only his skin remained. This was someone who appeared to have only one breath left, someone that would find it difficult to even walk, someone who was just awaiting their inevitable demise.
However, such an old man instilled a sense of fear in all the spectators. His corpse-like body was tiredly situated on the palanquin like a coiling dragon. When his eyes opened, a terrifying divine light flashed; it felt as if this divine light was capable of destroying everything.
Anyone who saw this old man would not dismiss him just because he was lying on a palanquin. On the contrary, all of them shivered with creeps the moment they laid their eyes on this old man.
“Is this the ancestor of the Tiger’s Howl School?” Seeing this old man and feeling the shiver-inducing aura, someone couldn’t help but murmur.
“I, I have heard of this old man before!” Finally, a decrepit old Demon Monarch took a deep breath and said in horror: “Legends state that he is the eighth generation great-grandson of the Tiger God. He had always been sealed in the deepest parts of the school with an Era Blood Stone to resist the erosion of time.”
Many were horrified after hearing this. The eighth great-grandson of the Tiger God… Just how long had this person lived for!? Even if he had been gathering dust underground, it was still enough to scare other people.
When this old man was carried out, everyone from the Tiger’s Howl School quickly prostrated and chanted: “Oh great divine ancestor!”
The dying old man that was lying on the palanquin spoke without any strength: “Junior, you were able to force me to come into being. Even if you die today, you have done enough to warrant a lifetime of arrogance and pride. Be reasonable and hand over the Immortal Physique Laws.”
“An old undying!” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and peered at the ancestor before he cheerfully smiled: “I’m afraid today is the last time you will ever come into being. An existence only of the old undying level is not enough to protect the Tiger’s Howl School.” With that, Li Qiye stomped down towards the old man with an unrivaled domineering attitude.
Such a domineering style astonished everyone. This was an existence of the ancestor level! An old undying capable of petrifying anyone! Many great sects sealed one or two of these old undyings, but when these characters came into being, it could easily result in their death. This was why they would not easily come out unless their sects were facing certain destruction.
Heavenly Sovereigns and even Heavenly Kings were filled with dread when they saw this old undying ancestor, but Li Qiye still stomped his foot towards him with an overbearing attitude.
The ancestor on the palanquin didn’t even move one bit. He simply flicked his finger and, with a “pop”, Li Qiye was blown away, crashing heavily into a peak.
“So powerful!” A finger easily knocked away Li Qiye with a minor completion Immortal Physique! Many spectators felt their scalps tingle since they all knew about Li Qiye’s ferocity, yet the ancestor blew him away with just one finger!
“Crash!” Li Qiye rushed out from the rubble with some bloodstains on his robes. However, they were merely external wounds and were insignificant to Li Qiye.
“It is a pity. You are far from enough. An existence that has yet to enter the Path of the Grand Era — not enough to reach the apex!” Li Qiye burst out in laughter and didn’t pay the ancestor any mind.
“Too arrogant!” Many people sucked in air through their teeth and exclaimed after hearing Li Qiye’s words.
The ancestor still sat on the palanquin, appearing to look down on all existences as he weakly spoke: “You do not know the immensity of the heaven and earth. Even though I haven’t step onto the Path of the Grand Era, it is still more than enough to kill a little brat like you!”
Above Heavenly Kings were Virtuous Paragons. There was a saying in this world — if Immortal Emperors do not come into being, then Virtuous Paragons were unbeatable.
In fact, this phrase was very vague. Virtuous Paragons were divided into many types, so even though the cultivators of this world considered any existence right below Immortal Emperor to be of the Virtuous Paragon realm, for millions of years, Virtuous Paragons that did not enter the Path of the Heavens or the Path of the Grand Era were called ordinary Virtuous Paragons.
For these ordinary Virtuous Paragons, their levels — in ascending order are Early Era Virtuous Paragon, Rising Era Virtuous Paragon, Peaceful Era Virtuous Paragon, Prosperous Era Virtuous Paragon, and Golden Era Virtuous Paragon.
It could be said that a Golden Era Virtuous Paragon was at the peak of ordinary Virtuous Paragons, but this was not the ultimate end of this realm.
Chapter 369 - Eight-Winged Divine Tiger
Once a cultivator reached Golden Era Virtuous Paragon, there would be two paths available to those who could continue onward; one was the Path of the Heavens and the other was the Path of the Grand Era.
These two paths were very easily classified. The Path of the Heavens was to reach the supreme heavenly dao of oneself. People who traveled on this path had the chance to obtain the Heaven’s Will and become an Immortal Emperor. However, the Path of the Heavens had always been very cruel and heartless throughout each generation since those who walked on this path had to compete against countless others. Throughout the ages, countless heaven-defying existences all died miserable deaths on this path towards the heavens.
In contrast, those who trod on the Path of the Grand Era were more likely to die of old age. This was the dao of the grand era that didn’t compete for the Heaven’s Will; this was a path that simply aimed for the apex of the Virtuous Paragon realm.
Those who trod on the grand era’s path could build a country to gather resources. Once they gained a certain degree of power, they would be able to open the divine investiture list! This meant that Virtuous Ancestors that reached the apex of the grand era’s path were comparable to the mysterious True Gods and could not be looked down upon by even Immortal Emperors!
Future generations began to divide these two paths; they called the Virtuous Paragons that walked towards the heavens “Heavenly Paragons” and those that strode towards the grand era “Divine Paragons”!
Without a doubt, the ancestor of the Tiger’s Howl School was a Virtuous Paragon, but he had not entered either of these paths! He was only an ordinary Virtuous Paragon. However, as an old undying that had been sealed for countless years and the ancestor of a great sect, he was still an existence worthy of awe and fear.
“Is that so?” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Then come out and show me the power of a Virtuous Paragon like yourself!” Having said that, Immortal Emperor auras flooded the sky. At this moment, Li Qiye’s left hand wielded the Violet Imperial Hammer and his right hand held the Black Tortoise Rod.
“Immortal Emperor Life Treasures!” The moment he took out these weapons, surging flame-like imperial auras appeared, causing everyone to shiver and nervously swallow their saliva!
“The Violet Imperial Hammer of the Azure Mysterious Ancient Kingdom and the Black Tortoise Rod of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!” Countless people were in awe before these two weapons.
Some big shots couldn’t help but to show their unsuppressible greed despite their legs growing weak. One of them even murmured: “This kid is too scary. To be able to actually unlock the emperor seal of the Ancient Kingdoms — this is truly unbelievable.” Many were driven mad from jealousy, seeing two emperor weapons in the possession of Li Qiye. Outside of Immortal Emperor lineages, who would have two emperor weapons? But this kid did, so how could they not go crazy from jealousy? And the even more astonishing part was that this kid could actually unlock the legendary emperor seals to take others’ emperor weapons for his own use!
Since he was facing emperor weapons, even the ancestor of the Tiger’s Howl School did not dare to act recklessly. In the end, the school was not an Immortal Emperor lineage; they did not have emperor merit laws, so before the might of an emperor weapon, great sects like them were at a huge disadvantage!
The ancestor solemnly stood up and opened his eyes. Suddenly, an endless net of lightning encompassed the entire school. At this moment, he was no longer an old undying nearing his end and was more like an awakened divine tiger. Before his piercing gaze, even Heavenly Kings would find that their legs would give in.
“Boom!” The ancestor’s powerful Virtuous Paragon aura destroyed the earth. At this time, eight tiger wings appeared behind his back, turning him into a divine tiger with eight wings. Even though his vitality had withered, his ferocious might still remained.
“I know who he is now!” Someone saw the eight wings behind his back and exclaimed in horror: “He is the Eight-Winged Divine Tiger! During the generation of Immortal Emperor Yin Tian, he was a Virtuous Paragon that once ruled over an entire territory!” 1
At this particular juncture, who the Tigers Howl School Ancestor was became unimportant to many people. Seeing his aura, they all understood that this was a real Virtuous Paragon and not someone an ancestor from a minor sect could compare to!
The ancestor’s True Fate Weapon now appeared above his head. This was a silver hook capable of hanging an entire galaxy; its chilling radiance rushed towards all directions. This was a Galaxy Hook created by a Heaven’s Will True Stone with seven heavenly accumulations!
“Kid, to be able to make me use my True Fate Weapon… You should feel honored!” At this time, the ancestor stood above the world and looked down on all existences.
“Hah, that is not up for you to decide. How could you possibly block two emperor weapons if you don’t take out your True Fate Weapon?” Li Qiye laughed loudly and said.
The ancestor’s expression turned cold as he spoke in an awe-inspiring manner: “Ignorant kid, do you really think you are unbeatable with emperor weapons? There are many people in this world who can stop such Life Treasures. If you can only unleash ten to twenty percent of an emperor weapon’s power, I’m afraid you are merely courting death even with two of them!”
The ancestor’s words were actually correct. A Heavenly Sovereign or a Heavenly King would be at a disastrous disadvantage if they were to face an emperor weapon without having one of their own, but it was different for Virtuous Paragons. Virtuous Paragons were existences capable of communicating with the heaven and earth as well as reaching for the sun and moon, so they could withstand a certain level of offense from an emperor weapon. If one couldn’t unleash a powerful attack with an emperor weapon, then Virtuous Paragons were still able to kill them.
“Just watch me!” Li Qiye laughed and, with a long battle cry, his six palaces appeared. At this time, they did not form a domain and instead only lined up in a regular formation.
Despite this, his Life Wheel began to turn and, with loud noises like the roaring waves, the Yin Yang Sea of Blood spewed out an endless amount of blood energy.
“Another six palaces Supreme Noble!” Even though Li Qiye’s six palaces did not turn into an absolute domain, it was still enough to drive others wild. One couldn’t help but to bitterly say: “Two Supreme Nobles appearing in one day! This is too unreal!”
A Royal Noble with six palaces was the sign of a great genius. Very few people at this realm were able to open six palaces because it would be the pinnacle of this level. By accomplishing such a task, one could absolutely be referred to as a genius amongst devilish geniuses!
Li Shuangyan had six palaces, and now Li Qiye also had six. Becoming dumbstruck in horror was the only appropriate reaction.
“Motherfucker!” A big character from the previous generation couldn’t help but let out some vulgarity: “With these two great geniuses appearing in one day, what are our juniors going to do!?”
It was not their fault for being lost in despair since both Li Shuangyan and Li Qiye stole the radiance from all other geniuses! Before them, no one else would dare to call themselves a genius.
“This is simply mocking everyone else’s futures. How are we going to live from now on?” A young prodigy unwillingly spoke in a daze: “Not to mention their Immortal Physiques, now they also have six palaces! Can’t they leave some space for little shrimps like us to catch up?”
At this moment, the eyes of many were reddened from jealousy as they stared at Li Qiye; many of those wished to peel off his skin and tear apart his tendons. Even a descendant of an Ancient Kingdom would not have as many luxurious things as he does!
“We’re changing the battlefield. Come up!” Seeing the eruption of Li Qiye’s Yin Yang Sea of Blood, even the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor couldn’t keep his calm demeanor. He suddenly traversed through the air upward and shouted.
“So be it!” Li Qiye laughed and also soared up to the sky. In an extremely short amount of time, Li Qiye’s Revolving Crescent Sun frantically urged the sea of blood to let out an endless sanguine tide. At this moment, Li Qiye’s blood energy flooded the sky.
“Feel the rage of the emperor weapons!” Li Qiye screamed and used his endless blood energy to activate the two emperor weapons. The moment these words came out, the two weapons directly attacked the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor!
There were no merit laws nor techniques involved, it was only the direct attack of the invincible emperor weapons. The moment these two weapons shot out, many strange images and phenomena appeared. A Black Tortoise caused the heaven and earth to molder while a Violet Hammer struck down the moon and sun! At this time, the entire Tiger’s Howl School shivered in fear as countless people fell onto the ground, not being able to breathe from the pressure.
“Galaxy Parting Hook!” The ancestor knew that there was no path of retreat, so he also uttered a loud cry like a divine god coming into being. The divine hook struck down as each galaxy was turned upside down into a faint sea of stars in order to block the incoming emperor weapons.
“Bang!” After a loud explosion, countless stars fell down as the firmament was shattered. The people on the ground suffered from the aftermath. Their blood energy went out of control, and those with a weaker cultivation directly vomited blood.
Under this blow, the sea of stars was destroyed while the ancestor had to take several steps back, revealing a shocked countenance.
“How could this be!” Even a Virtuous Paragon was not able to block the attack! This suddenly changed the demeanor of countless people.
“This is too heaven-defying; Li Qiye was able to unleash thirty percent of the Immortal Emperor Life Treasures! His Longevity Treasure is way too powerful. I think it must be an Immortal Emperor Longevity Treasure!” A big character looked at Li Qiye’s Yin Yang Sea of Blood that was hovering in the sky. Even though he had just unleashed an emperor level attack, there was no sign of his blood energy drying up. This Longevity Treasure was way too formidable, rendering others absolutely horrified.
One must understand that in order to unleash a strike from an emperor weapon, one required the support and sacrifice of a large amount of blood energy. Not everyone could pay this price!
Li Qiye also took a deep breath. His sea of blood was indeed extremely powerful, but by attacking with two emperor weapons in this manner, he was still unable to bear it despite the support of his sea of blood. He felt out of breath and struggled to regain his composure after using a monstrous amount of blood energy.
The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor was going insane. A junior like Li Qiye having two emperor weapons was one thing, but he also had an Immortal Emperor Longevity Treasure! An Immortal Emperor Longevity Treasure working together with Immortal Emperor Life Treasures — this was a perfect synergy!
Bao - Li Qiye versus the first ‘official’ Virtuous Paragon. I wonder how many Virtuous Paragons we have seen so far?
Once a cultivator reached Golden Era Virtuous Paragon, if they could still continue onward, then there were two available paths; one was the Path of the Heavens and the other was the Path of the Grand Era.
These two paths were very easily classified. The Path of the Heavens was to reach the supreme heavenly dao of the self. People who traveled on this path had the chance to obtain the Heaven’s Will and reach Immortal Emperor. However, the Path of the Heavens had always been very cruel and heartless throughout each generation since those who walked on this path had to compete against countless others. Throughout the ages, countless heaven-defying existences all died miserable deaths on this path towards the heavens.
In contrast, those who trod on the Path of the Grand Era were more likely to die of old age. This was the dao of the grand era that didn’t compete for the Heaven’s Will; this was a path that simply aimed for the apex of the Virtuous Paragon realm.
Chapter 370 - Battle Against the Divine Tiger
“Damn it! One person with two emperor weapons and an emperor longevity treasure — this is a rich young master, no, an imperial young master! Only the direct children of Immortal Emperors would be able to enjoy such privileges!” A person exclaimed with indignation. 1
“Good, good, good…” The Tiger’s Howl School’s Ancestor was laughing from anger. He, a terrifying ancestor had been sealed for so many years underground, had to come into being today just for a little junior. He thought that he could deal with this as easily as flipping his palm, but he didn’t think that he couldn’t garner even the least bit of advantage. 2
As a powerful ancestor who failed to kill a junior even after using his True Fate Weapon, it was extremely humiliating for him.
“Take this!” In a wrathful outrage, the ancestor took out a treasure that stole the colors from the moon and sun while the stars lost their luminosity.
“The True Fate Weapon of the Tiger God!” A person was amazed after seeing the treasure in the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor’s hand.
Sacred universal laws encircled this treasure that exuded countless divine lights as if an embryo of a True God was being nourished inside. The divine power that was spewing out was boundless, causing others to quiver as if a True God was suppressing them.
The Progenitor of the Tiger’s Howl School was a Virtuous Paragon that had opened the legendary divine investiture. This was a supreme existence, an eternal Progenitor that ordinary Virtuous Paragons could never compare to!
“Junior, die—!” The enraged ancestor madly shouted as he dripped a drop of Longevity Blood onto the Tiger God’s True Treasure. Suddenly, a bloody light pierced the sky as a tiger’s roar shattered the grand dao, causing all the other gods to tremble.
“Really?” Li Qiye laughed as his Yin Yang Sea of Blood kept on transferring blood energy nonstop. The endless blood energy lifted a massive tidal wave of Longevity Blood that spun inside his Life Wheel to power his emperor weapons!
“Die!” The ancestor unleashed the Tiger God’s True Treasure. A white tiger crossed the sky — this was a real Tiger God. The moment it stepped out, the fabric of space and time shattered. Its stride did not have any physical limitations; its claws could incinerate oceans and destroy all lands. Such a powerful divine aura caused countless existences to shiver.
“Thousand Hands Against the Nine Worlds!” Li Qiye did not retreat and instead trod forward. With a cry, the nine worlds were lifted along with three thousand minor worlds. The two emperor weapons were already powerful enough under the support of the endless blood energy, but now they exuded an even more powerful presence.
The Violet Imperial Hammer’s emperor aura filled the sky. Inside the swirling violet energy was a vast territory as if an emperor was sitting on his throne, creating a new dao and changing the profundity of this world. Meanwhile, a monstrous Black Tortoise stepped out from the Black Tortoise Rod. This tortoise crushed the land as it shouldered the blue sky. It derived and created numerous grand dao and laws with a totem capable of freezing eternity itself!
This time, the two emperor weapons were no longer on the offensive. They suddenly became an impregnable gate as if two Immortal Emperors were guarding Li Qiye!
“Boom!” A loud explosion rang as the white tiger — with an invincible momentum — slammed into the gate created by the two emperor weapons. The endless void shattered like glass falling down in the sky!
“Thud, thud, thud!” Li Qiye continuously took several steps back. A Virtuous Paragon used all of his might to unleash a true treasure attack that belonged to an existence that had opened the investiture list, so one could only imagine the power of this strike! However, it was still unable to slay Li Qiye!
“No way, even the Tiger God’s True Treasure could not kill him!” Witnessing this scene, countless people were in disbelief.
A great character softly sighed and said: “This kid is too heaven-defying. He unleashed fifty to sixty percent of the Immortal Emperor Life Treasures’ power; even a descendant of an Ancient Kingdom could not do such a thing!”
“You cannot escape death even with two emperor weapons. Emperor weapons are not omnipotent!” The ancestor coldly spoke after he gained some advantage with that last exchange.
Li Qiye revealed a smile and said: “If you were still young or if your blood energy was still strong, then I would accept these words. Virtuous Paragons are indeed great, and even an ordinary one could defeat an emperor weapon in the hands of a junior! However, you won’t do! You are old with a depleted lifespan and dried up blood energy. Yes, with the Tiger God’s True Treasure, you can muster some ground, but I have two emperor weapons. Under my resilience, I can block five to ten moves from you, but how long can your blood energy support the Tiger God’s True Treasure?”
Li Qiye’s words moved many spectators in the distance. Even though using emperor weapons required a huge amount of blood energy, Li Qiye’s advantage was due to his young age and vigorous blood energy, not to mention that his Longevity Treasure belonged to the emperor grade. This was enough for him to persevere for a short time!
“It’s enough for me to kill you!” The ancestor’s eyes were filled with rage. In fact, Li Qiye’s words rang true to the ancestor’s ears. His lifespan was indeed depleted. Even if he could kill Li Qiye with the Tiger God’s True Treasure, his blood energy would be emptied as a result. This meant that he could no longer seal himself; his death was assured even if he killed Li Qiye.
“Ah!” At this time, a miserable scream appeared along with a rain of blood. With a crazed laughter, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King tore the ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country into two halves while he was still alive!
“Time to end this!” At the same time, Li Shuangyan also cried out. The Heavenly Sky Plate appeared in her hand. The moment it started to turn, the stars were destroyed. Its powerful force directly hit the body of the Tiger’s Howl Prime Imperial Sire, blowing him away as he let out a shrill scream. In this short period of time, before he had the chance to counterattack, Chen Baojiao slashed with her Tyrannical Immortal Saber like a storm goddess, creating a surging sea of blades!
“No!” The Prime Imperial Sire took out many treasures and wanted to stop these blades, but they were insufficient. After a sad bellow, he was also killed by this attack.
In just the blink of an eye, two experts from the Tiger’s Howl School were killed. The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor was stunned. He couldn’t help even if he wanted to since Li Qiye’s two emperor weapons had been fixated on him!
Seeing such a scene, not only the Tiger’s Howl disciples, but even the spectators outside were astonished. Li Qiye’s camp was way too powerful!
“If this is the limit of your capabilities, then there is no chance of stopping me today.” Li Qiye glanced at the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor whose face had become cold to the extreme.
Angered to the point of vomiting blood, the ancestor angrily laughed and then coldly declared: “Good, good… Junior, do you think you are the only one with Immortal Emperor Life Treasures? Please come out, Ancient Kingdom’s emperor weapons!”
“Bang—bang—bang—” The moment the ancestor finished his words, an Immortal Emperor’s aura suddenly ravaged the nearby land with a force even more powerful than Li Qiye’s two emperor weapons!
In just a split second, four emperor weapons appeared on the side of the Tiger’s Howl School with a terrifying pressure that shook the entire Eastern Hundred Cities!
“An Immortal Emperor True Treasure!” At this time, people felt a presence as if an Immortal Emperor had personally come. They couldn’t help but become pale from fear!
At this time, three Immortal Emperor Life Treasures and one Immortal Emperor True Treasure descended to the school and sealed this entire location! Even the spectators right outside had to lie limp on the ground.
“Is this the prelude to the eventual sinking of the Tiger’s Howl School?” At this moment, countless old undyings of the great sects at the Eastern Hundred Cities became alarmed after feeling the Immortal Emperor True Treasure’s presence!
“The Evil Subduing Rod, Immortal Emperor Fu Mo’s True Treasure! And also the Water Dragon Rod, the Fire Phoenix Rod, and the Wood Tiger Rod!” Seeing the four weapons, someone became overwhelmed with shock and murmured: “All of Immortal Emperor Fu Mo’s weapons have gathered here today!” 3
Immortal Emperor Fu Mo of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom had left behind an arsenal of weapons, including the Evil Subduing Rod and his rods crafted after the four images! It was said that this arsenal could turn into an invincible emperor formation!
Including the Black Tortoise Rod in Li Qiye’s hands, all of Immortal Emperor Fu Mo’s weapons had appeared at the Tiger’s Howl ancestral ground.
But outside of these three Life Treasures, even an Immortal Emperor True Treasure arrived. Everyone couldn’t help but take a deep breath after seeing such a scene. Today was a battle between Immortal Emperor weapons!
“Such a grand performance! All the emperor weapons of an Immortal Emperor have arrived. Only an Ancient Kingdom would be able to put on such a play!” Seeing the four weapons suppressing the four directions of the school, many were awestruck.
“This is the Tiger’s Howl School working together with the Furious Immortal Saint Country and the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, it’s not just the school alone. Maybe the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is the real mastermind behind all this!” A sect master figured it out and emotionally spoke.
The Tiger’s Howl School was merely the battlefield, the real player was the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!
“The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom finally came.” Li Qiye became serious and commanded the group of Li Shuangyan: “All of you leave first, I shall deal with them!”
“It is too late to leave!” At this time, a terrifying voice resonated. A faint shadow appeared in the sky. The emergence of this shadow made the world seem insignificant. Wherever he stood was his personal domain; he was a god that controlled the heaven and earth.
Countless people felt the impulse to kneel down in worship before this faint shadow as if an almost primal, instinctive fear emanated from the depths of their minds.
“The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom’s Divine Beast Protector!” Li Qiye’s eyes narrowed as he stared at the fuzzy shadow in the sky and said.
“The Divine Beast Protector from the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!” After hearing this name, someone screamed. Even old undyings that hid in the darkness became shocked and murmured: “Is this an eternal existence?”
The title of eternal existence would not be granted to just anyone. Even an old undying like the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor was not qualified to be called an eternal existence. Even legendary masters lacked this privilege.
It was said that only people who opened the divine investiture list could be called eternal existences. Although there were no clear standards to this title, eternal existences were far beyond ordinary Virtuous Paragons! This was something known to everyone!
“Damn it! One person with two emperor weapons and an emperor longevity treasure — this is a rich young master, no, an imperial young master! Only the direct children of Immortal Emperors would be able to enjoy such privileges!” A person exclaimed with indignation.
“Good, good, good…” The Tiger’s Howl School’s Ancestor was laughing from anger. He, a terrifying ancestor had been sealed for so many years underground, had to come into being today just for a little junior. He thought that he could deal with this as easily as flipping his palm, but he didn’t think that he couldn’t garner even the least bit of advantage.
As a powerful ancestor who failed to kill a junior even after using his True Fate Weapon, it was extremely humiliating for him.
“Take this!” In a wrathful outrage, the ancestor took out a treasure that stole the colors from the moon and sun while the stars lost their luminosity.
Chapter 371 - Realm God Coming Into Being
The Brilliance Divine Beast Protector had always been resting at the capital of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, utilizing its great resources and an Era Blood Stone to resist the withering of time.
After tens of millions of years, no one dared to provoke the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. Even powerful Virtuous Paragons wouldn’t cause trouble inside the kingdom’s territory, let alone oppose it.
Many people knew that outside of the kingdom’s own great resources and secrets, its Divine Beast Protector had always been alive!
Today, it personally came here and shook everyone’s hearts; who knew how many people lost all of their courage after hearing this name!
“Now this is the real death trap!” A knowledgeable master murmured: “No matter how heaven-defying Li Qiye is, he will not be able to escape this inevitable doom!”
Besides those at the Tiger’s Howl School, many revealed a gloating grin. Li Qiye was too heaven-defying and devilish; as long as he existed, he would forever be an unreachable mountain for the rest of the younger generation!
“My dao clone has to personally arrive just for a junior — this is valuing you too much.” The faint figure in the sky looked down at Li Qiye and said: “However, it will all be worth it!”
“It is a dao clone!” People glanced at each other, but they were still astonished. Even if it was only the dao clone of the Divine Beast Protector of the Ancient Kingdom, it was still enough to suppress many Virtuous Paragons, not to mention it also brought along four emperor weapons — this was unbeatable!
These spectators took deep breaths. They all understood that with the appearance of the Divine Beast Protector, this battle was about to reach the climax!
“Junior, even the gods would not be able to save you today!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor coldly spoke. Their school had suffered heavily after this battle, but for the emperor laws and physique laws, it was all worth it.
“Don’t meaninglessly struggle!” The overbearing shadow looked down at Li Qiye and said: “You should meekly hand over your emperor weapons and physique laws. Then, I shall grant you a swift death!”
An existence like the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector would not easily come into being due to having to pay an extremely high price. Even if it was only its dao clone, the price would be astounding. These types of eternal existences did not have much lifespan left, they were just barely holding on. Unless it was a disaster, they would absolutely not come out.
However, in order to regain the emperor weapons and physique laws in the hands of Li Qiye, the dao clone of the Divine Beast Protector had no other choice.
This was all worth it in its eyes. At the moment, there were three great Immortal Physique Laws: Li Qiye’s Hell Suppressing Godly Physique, Li Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique, and the Heavenly King’s Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique!
If their Brilliance Ancient Kingdom could obtain these three physique laws, then its potential would become unimaginable. Perhaps they could even catch up to lineages like the Eternal River School or even far exceed them.
At this point, all the spectators held their breaths. Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King was as pale as a sheet. This was a dead end; if it was someone like the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor, then they still had a chance of surviving. However, when an existence like the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector appeared, even if it was only a dao clone, there would be no way out for them!
“Li Qiye is finished. Not even two emperor weapons can save him.” A person couldn’t help but say after seeing the current situation.
There was also a disciple from a great power who sneered: “He was seeking his own death. Coming from a small sect, no matter how heaven-defying he may be, he still would not be able to overturn the grand tide. Opposing an Ancient Kingdom was a foolish endeavor! Hah, the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom had two Immortal Emperors and stood strong for millions of years. How could a junior like him be able to affect them!?”
“Let us watch to see how this genius will pathetically die!” Another great power’s disciple excitedly spoke. To those who had grievances with Li Qiye, this kind of development was their greatest wish.
“What a pity!” Li Qiye glanced at the faint shadow in the sky and said: “Only a dao clone — truly a disappointment.”
“Why would I personally come for an insect!?” The shadow looked down and said: “Hand over the Immortal Physique Laws!”
Li Qiye laughed and said: “If your real body came, then I might have let you see my Immortal Physique Law. What a shame, I was waiting for your real body to come so that I could refine it. Even if an old guy like you, someone who had lived for generation after generation, is really hard to chew, I really wanted to refine you and turn your beast blood into treasure blood… This is a really nutritious thing!”
These words surprised everyone, and they all felt that Li Qiye had become crazy. This was an eternal existence, someone even stronger than legendary masters. One could not compare it to the likes of an old undying like the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor!
An existence like the Divine Beast Protector could easily kill ordinary Virtuous Paragons. As for Heavenly Sovereigns and Heavenly Kings, they were nothing but ants in their eyes!
Li Qiye blustering about refining an eternal existence of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom was simply too audacious.
“Haha, don’t tell me this brat has gone crazy from being too scared?” Someone couldn’t help but laugh: “He wants to refine an eternal existence? It could crush him with just one finger!”
“My patience is limited!” At this moment, the faint shadow in the sky coldly declared: “Hand your Immortal Physique Laws over!” If it wasn’t for the laws, he would have killed Li Qiye already.
“Forget it, I have no interest in a dao clone. However, your Immortal Emperor Life Treasures might not be too bad!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “You can go now, but leave behind the four emperor weapons!”
Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King’s mouth was wide open after hearing Li Qiye trying to chase away the divine beast protector’s dao clone as if it was a fly.
“Haha, the Divine Beast Senior could kill you just by lifting its finger. The four emperor weapons aren’t here for you. You think way too highly of yourself; they were meant for the Heavenly Dao Academy. It is a shame that they didn’t come; otherwise, they would suffer the same fate as you!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor chillingly said.
This was a grand plan! The Tiger’s Howl School didn’t only want to kill the group of Li Qiye! If the ancestors of the Heavenly Dao Academy came to help him, they would also be killed.
“It is time to end this.” Li Qiye didn’t look at the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor, but rather, at the faint figure in the sky as he smiled: “Today, your Brilliance Ancient Kingdom will surely fall. My only regret is that I couldn’t wait for your real body so that I could use it to strengthen my own.”
“You deserve death!” The glare of the faint figure in the sky became extremely fierce. It was as if this figure could pierce through the endless river of time. When it became angry, even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King knelt down on the ground, sweating profusely.
“Boom!” The heaven and earth shook along with the entire Tiger’s Howl School. No, the entire Eastern Hundred Cities was shaking as if an Immortal Emperor was going on a journey to flip the entire region.
And it wasn’t just the Tiger’s Howl School, everyone in the Eastern Hundred Cities felt the appearance of an invincible existence. One step of his immediately trod across the entire world!
“Who came into being just now?” In this split second, countless old undyings opened their eyes from fear. Some even crawled out from the earth in shock. Even the souls of eternal existences fluttered away from fear.
“Boom!” Another loud explosion detonated. At this time, the entire Eastern Hundred Cities was like a little boat made out of a single leaf in a torrential storm. At the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, countless immortal lights and emperor auras were exuded, flooding the world as supreme formations were formed.
But all of this was for naught. Many people saw an astonishing scene; each and every defensive formation inside the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom was annihilated. A gigantic hand descended from the sky, shattering them one by one.
“The Realm God!” At the Ancient Kingdom’s deepest parts, a crazy scream emanated with a hint of unwillingness: “You are not supposed to be able to leave your ancestral vein!”
“That is a thing of the past!” A majestic and solemn voice came from the sky as a person landed. As something unable to be hindered by anything, it immediately walked into the deepest parts of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom.
“Rumble!” At this second, Immortal Emperor True Treasures soared to the sky along with many Immortal Emperor Life Treasures in order to engage the enemy!
“Break!” The Realm God was unbeatable. Its hand was holding onto a giant cauldron that poured divine flames in order to directly refine its enemies!
“The Chaos Cauldron!” Within the depths of the Ancient Kingdom, a person roared: “Realm God, do you wish for an irreconcilable blood feud with my Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!”
“Correct!” The Realm God rushed inside as the Chaos Cauldron kept on attacking. With rumbling explosions, the ancestral ground of the kingdom was annihilated. Then, the voice of the Realm God spanned across the earth: “The day when all of you attacked my Heavenly Dao Academy was the day that you should have known this would happen!”
“Die!” At this time, an extremely monstrous shadow from the depths soared up high and personally controlled all the emperor weapons!
Chapter 372 - Realm God Sweeping Through The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom
“The invincible Divine Beast Protector!” Countless old undyings saw this large shadow and movingly stated.
“You alone… won’t do!” The unbeatable Realm God directly slammed down with its Chaos Cauldron and blew the opponent away. Such a display of power terrified all the spectators!
“Realm God!” At this time, the faint figure above the Tiger’s Howl School madly shouted and then instantly broke into pieces without leaving behind a single remnant.
This scene surprised many people. The sudden destruction of a dao clone meant that the real body had suffered a grave wound and therefore couldn’t support the distant dao clone.
Many would have nightmares after today. At this second, an invincible aura swept through the entire Eastern Hundred Cities as all existences began to tremble in fear.
“No… How could this be… Shouldn’t the Realm God be rooted in the ancestral vein? How could it leave the Heavenly Dao Academy?” At this time, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor became haggard and said.
Many currently dumbstruck spectators, including the great powers’ ancestors, knew that the Realm God had lived for a very long time and was on the verge of dying. Unless the academy was facing certain destruction, it would not come into being. Moreover, it was rooted within the ancestral vein, and its inability to leave was also common knowledge. It would never leave the vein unless it was tired of living and wished to die from old age. However, the Realm God right now had no qualms with leaving the academy; it went by itself to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. What was the meaning of this?
“How could this be? Has the Realm God been reborn for another generation?” At this time, countless outsiders felt their hair standing on end as cold chills traveled through their spines.
Many became regretful for attacking the academy in the past. Back then, they assumed that the Realm God was no longer going to make it after having lived for so long, not to mention that it had become crazy. In their eyes, its death was all but assured.
Especially when the disaster fell upon the academy that year. The Realm God still didn’t appear, and this only further fortified their disposition regarding the Realm God’s inability to come into being.
At the moment, there was no sign of it weakening as it left the academy and killed its way into the ancient kingdom. This was not good news to those who once teamed up to siege the academy.
“Rumble!” The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom’s land began to sunder as the battle reached a new height with countless divine lights encompassing the entire area. Countless existences inside were suppressed to a state of prostration on the ground; they were unable to move one bit.
“Activate the emperor foundation!” The terrified voice of the Divine Beast Protector resounded across the earth. At this time, those who could hear this were shaking with fear. Without a doubt, even the Divine Beast Protector was not able to withstand the onslaught.
As an imperial light covered the ancient kingdom, it was as if an Immortal Emperor had come back to life. An invincible aura swept through the world and trapped the Realm God inside.
“Realm God, my Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is eternal. You can’t do anything before the emperor foundation of two emperors!” The Divine Beast Protector uttered in a craze.
“If your Immortal Emperors were still alive, then I might retreat. Alas, your emperors are no longer of this world, so your emperor foundation cannot trap me!” The extremely domineering Realm God, with its giant hand holding the Chaos Cauldron, tore the sky apart and rushed in without any hesitation.
Such a grand battle startled the entire Eastern Hundred Cities. Immortal Emperor True Treasures soared to the sky with Life Treasures everywhere; however, the Realm God was invincible. The Chaos Cauldron in its grasp was unstoppable even when facing True Treasures.
This was a battle that shook even the heavens. With the Realm God taking action, all contemporary great powers were aghast.
It was an extremely ancient being. Even though legends stated that it was unbeatable for a generation as the protector of the academy, something that could not be defeated even by Immortal Emperors, not everyone deemed this as trustworthy, especially when it had not fought in a very long time. And so, everyone who knew of its existence assumed that its lifespan and blood energy were completely dried up.
However, its attack today against the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom was of an unparalleled magnitude. At this time, everyone felt sweat forming on their bodies and understood that the phrase, “the Heavenly Dao Academy — unshakable for millions of years,” was not just mere empty words!
“It is our turn now!” At the Tiger’s Howl School, although no one could see the battle at the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, all the experts were astonished when they felt the invincible momentum. It was as if the Realm God was the sole ruler of this world. Many people finally calmed down while Li Qiye slowly looked at the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor and spoke.
In a state of panic, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor initially thought that this battle was already won with the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector’s dao clone personally arriving with four emperor weapons. They not only wanted to catch Li Qiye, but also all of the seven Ancient Ancestors if they decided to help Li Qiye.
However, in contrast to their expectations, only Li Qiye came; none of the seven Ancient Ancestors showed up. And the worst part was that the Realm God came into being and swept through the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom! Now, the dao clone of the beast didn’t even have the chance to attack before it disappeared. One could only imagine how terrifying this battle was if the true body of the divine beast protector became gravely wounded right from the start.
The guaranteed victory had been completely reversed, causing the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor to become pale. However, in the end, he was still a Virtuous Paragon capable of calling for the wind and summoning rain; he took a deep breath and made a decision before speaking in a cold tone: “The victor has yet to be decided!” At this point, his eyes fell onto the four emperor weapons.
The four emperor weapons were meant for the seven Ancient Ancestors so they were part of a sure-kill formation.
“You plan to control four emperor weapons with your withered blood energy?” Looking at the four emperor weapons, Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and then smilingly spoke: “Fine, I still need four suitable weapons! Make your move!”
At this time, he was fixated on the weapons from the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. He already had the Black Tortoise Rod, so these other four weapons were a perfect match for it.
“Go!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor suddenly disappeared from the horizon and emerged at the top of a peak. This was the focal point of the sure-kill formation. At this time, all of his blood energy gathered into this place to activate the four emperor weapons as they exuded an endless amount of emperor power!
“Ommm—” A buzzing sound resonated. The ancestor wanted to use this formation to kill Li Qiye, but the four weapons suddenly quivered and tore apart the void!
“Not good!” With an unexpected look on his face, Li Qiye wanted to take action, but he was too late. In a split second, the four emperor weapons tore apart the void and suddenly disappeared.
“Boom!” At this time, the sky at the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom became damaged to the point where a black hole was formed. At this moment, the immortal hymns of Immortal Emperors preaching the dao resounded in the air.
“So fast! I didn’t think the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom would have to utilize their true strength in such a short period of time!” Li Qiye suddenly felt regret. He didn’t think the kingdom had to use all of their might; they even summoned back their four emperor weapons at the Tiger’s Howl School!
“If I had known this, I would have taken action earlier!” Li Qiye knew that he should have unleashed his secret move earlier and seized the four emperor weapons before doing anything else. Now, it was all too late; the succulent duck before his mouth had flown away!
At this moment, many in the Eastern Hundred Cities were alarmed. They didn’t think that the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom would be on the verge of faltering due to the attack of the Realm God. They actually had to use their hidden strength after such a brief moment!
The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor’s face was now deathly pale. His biggest sure-kill method was suddenly gone. It was as if the heaven and earth no longer answered his prayers.
“Let us end this battle. This is your last chance to use whatever means you have. Otherwise, I shall refine this earth.” Li Qiye was in a bad mood after the four emperor weapons flew away. He no longer wanted to waste time and wished to end this battle so that he could run to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom and steal their creations.
With a livid look, the ancestor finally ground his teeth and harshly spoke after stomping on the ground: “Little Animal, we shall die together! Open the ominous graves!”
As his words fell, all of his remaining Longevity Blood spewed out onto the four ominous graves at the depths of the Tiger’s Howl ancestral ground. In an instant, the four graves became quite demonic.
“Rumble!” At this time, the entire school shook as if everything was affected by this sudden development.
A burst of grave-opening sounds rang loudly as an underworldly energy suddenly filled the sky, turning the school itself into hell.
The four ominous graves were finally opened with rumbling explosions appearing everywhere. Four monstrous images came out from the graves like four gods of death!
A towering gloom and ghastly aura surged throughout the school with the four great images standing above it as if they wanted to turn this place into a land of death.
“The legendary ominous graves of the four images!” Many people right outside of the school suddenly shivered since these images were extremely daunting.
The White Tiger, the Azure Dragon, the Vermillion Bird, and the Black Tortoise — these huge shadows stood there like four mythical beasts. Their empty eyes caused others to feel the creeps.
“These are extremely legendary existences that were refined into the ancestral foundation of the school by its Progenitor, the Tiger God!”
Chapter 373 - Four Ominous Images
“Slay!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor uttered a loud cry as all of his blood energy was consumed by the four ominous graves. Regardless of the outcome of this battle, his death was assured. Even if Li Qiye didn’t kill him, he was doomed to die of old age.
“Rumble!” The four great images came pressing forward with an endless amount of dark energy.
“Bang!” Li Qiye met this attack with the emperor weapons, but he was still blown away. Nevertheless, he roared as the sky became bright due to his hovering grand dao. At this time, Li Qiye revealed all of his strongest techniques: Thousand Hands Against the Nine Worlds, Daylight Immortal Secret, and Nine Sun Locking Heaven Law.
With the hands lifting up three thousand minor worlds, their combined power aggregated on the two emperor weapons. The Heaven’s Will Secret Law descended like a heavenly path with all of the forces in the world focused on Li Qiye’s body. The nine suns began to rise as an endless amount of refined flames became the most powerful catalyst for the two emperor weapons…
“Boom!” After a loud blast, the two emperor weapons in Li Qiye’s hands exuded an immemorial emperor power to stop the suppression from the four great images.
However, like before, Li Qiye was still unable to withstand this force. At this time, the grand dao shattered as the earth beneath his feet fractured. Rivers and ancient pavilions all fell apart as the universal laws under the Tiger’s Howl School could no longer protect this area. Thick strands of laws began to burst.
In a short period of time, miserable screams emanated throughout the school. Many disciples brought along the young and old to escape from this place that was facing its impending doom.
“Poof! Poof! Poof!” At the worst possible time, a problem appeared on Li Qiye’s body. His True Fate appeared to be affected by the four images as an evil aura emerged and spewed out countless flames. These evil flames towered over Li Qiye like a tide and turned into a terrifying vortex that wanted to engulf him!
“Fate Calamity!” Seeing this evil ocean-like vortex appearing above his head, even the group of Li Shuangyan was shocked. His Fate Calamity picked the worst time to appear.
“Not good, Li Qiye’s Fate Calamity appeared!” Many people outside of the Tiger’s Howl School were astonished when they saw this torrential vortex.
“Even the heavens wish to destroy you!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor let out a crazed laughter and ordered the remaining elders and protectors: “Use all of our refined jades and open all the ancestral foundations. Today, if our enemies do not die, then we shall perish!”
A loud sound exploded after his command. The light of refined jades came forth from the deepest part of the school, followed by the surging evil aura of the four ominous graves as if the entrance to hell had been opened. This dark energy was immediately devoured by the four giant images. They became much stronger as they came down on Li Qiye. Li Qiye spewed out spurts of blood while retreating. Each of his steps carried a force so great that it shattered mountains and peaks.
At this time, the school let go of all caution and unleashed all of their ancestral foundations. In a short amount of time, the earth shattered and only the elders and protectors remained. All of the weak disciples carried the old and young to the outside!
“Om—!” An even more terrifying thing happened after a buzzing sound. An extremely huge evil gate opened in the horizon with billowing dark energy like a raging ocean. It was as if this gate wanted to turn this location into a land of evil.
“The Fate Calamity’s tribulation is here!” Countless people outside of the school looked up to see the evil gate opening its doors in the sky, creating many ominous phenomena. All of the spectators were stricken with horror.
“This heart demon is so powerful. Only a six palace Royal Noble would have such a powerful Fate Calamity.” Some in the distance were startled while others were gloating at Li Qiye’s misfortune.
“Hahaha, Little Animal, the heavens surely shall end you!” After seeing so many evil images descending from the sky, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor wildly laughed.
“Time to end this. Take a look at my trump card!” Li Qiye was not afraid and laughed contrary to expectations. With a boom, his six palaces turned into an endless domain that was filled with primordial energy.
“Boom!” The tiger vein of the Tiger’s Howl School was torn apart as the earth itself cracked.
Inside Li Qiye’s absolute domain was a huge lake filled with worldly essence; the Terra’s Root was growing inside this lake.
An incredible thing happened at this time. The endless worldly energy from the crack in the tiger vein suddenly spewed out a huge pillar that was crazily absorbed by Li Qiye’s domain!
“No!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor bellowed and didn’t dare to believe his eyes. This was an impossible matter since even he couldn’t control the worldly essence from the White Tiger Vein. Even their Progenitor, the Tiger God, could barely control it. Yet, at this moment, its worldly essence was suddenly devoured by Li Qiye. He was completely reluctant to believe such a thing was happening!
“How is this possible!?” Even the spectators outside were stunned at Li Qiye’s domain suddenly swallowing the worldly essence of the White Tiger Vein. One shouldn’t be able to control this grand vein, let alone swallow its energy.
However, no one knew that the Terra’s Root of this place had already been refined by Li Qiye and was now firmly planted in his domain. With its help, devouring the energy of this entire White Tiger Vein was a trivial matter.
“Bang!” After he finished the devouring process, his absolute domain suddenly turned into his third eye, immediately bringing forth the hottest and brightest radiance. At this time, his absolute domain seemed to be the origin of the grand dao as it burst with its power; this was the strongest orderly dao that could crush all things!
Before the countless evil images that were being released from the evil sea above Li Qiye’s head could descend to the ground, they were all rendered into ashes before this invincible and destructive blow from the brightest radiance.
“I was waiting for this moment!” Li Qiye, in the most elegant manner, destroyed his Fate Calamity — easy and absolutely perfect.
All of this happened in the mere blink of an eye. From devouring the worldly essence of the tiger vein and using one blow to destroy the Fate Calamity’s Tribulation, barely any time had elapsed.
Everyone stared with their mouths wide open since they had never seen such a shocking scene before. One blow to surpass the Fate Calamity and completely destroy it!
“It is over!” Li Qiye’s expression darkened. With the Immortal’s Blood Spear in his hand, he threw it down. This was a strike to punish the gods and devils! A spear that sent fear into the hearts of myriad worlds! Something that was capable of causing the downfall of gods and warranting retreat from Immortal Emperors! When this spear was thrown, it left an indelible mark in the horizon!
In a great battle, tearing apart the sky was a common thing. Even if the sky was split, it would easily recover since very few people could destroy the fabric of time and space forever. However, this spear left behind an everlasting mark that was unlikely to go away for a very long time!
Regardless of whether they were outside the Tiger’s Howl School or simply within the Eastern Hundred Cities, countless people were forced to prostrate on the ground. At this moment, many ancestors from the great powers lost their minds from fear.
“Someone is unleashing an Imperial Massacre or a Heavenly Annihilation!?” An old ancestor let out a loud scream.
An Imperial Massacre was the ultimate blow of an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure. Outside of Immortal Emperors, very few descendants could unleash such an attack. A Heavenly Annihilation, on the other hand, was the ultimate attack of an Immortal Emperor True Treasure!
These attacks were just like their names: the massacre committed by Immortal Emperors or the annihilation carried out by the high heavens! These were the most terrifying attacks this world would face, and even Virtuous Paragons would lose their colors when they heard about them!
“No!” In the end, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor let out an indignant scream. With a loud explosion, the ancestral ground of the school was suddenly wiped out, leaving only a bottomless black crater!
At this time, Li Qiye carried the Immortal’s Blood Spear with a frightening murderous intent that filled the entire horizon. Even the old undyings that hid in the darkness to watch the fight felt their legs give out. As for existences like the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King, they lay flat on the floor after being completely horrified.
Some of the stunned spectators had their mouths open so wide that one could fit an egg inside. Some would find that their jaws became dislocated from this shock!
Under this one spear, the ancestral ground of the school became ashes. This place that once resembled a giant tiger had fragmented as countless mountains and rivers collapsed while the main area became a horrifying crater.
“What a shame.” Li Qiye put away the Immortal’s Blood Spear and murmured: “One step too late from seizing the Immortal Emperor True Treasure!”
He borrowed the spear from Zi Cuining in order to suppress the true treasure, but he took action way too late!
“We’re going!” In the end, while the group of Li Shuangyan was still in a daze, Li Qiye commanded. They all woke up immediately and followed him right away.
“Even the heavens wish to destroy you!”
“Hahaha, Little Animal, the heavens surely shall end you!”
Chapter 374 - Intimidating The Eastern Hundred Cities
Sikong Toutian and the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King would have nightmares from this event. This was too domineering; they had never seen a Fate Calamity get destroyed in one blow without even having the chance to fight back! Under this one spear, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor, four ominous graves, and even the school’s ancestral ground became nothing in an instant.
“An Imperial Massacre! No, it had to be a Heavenly Annihilation!” A long time after Li Qiye’s group left, the people who were in a daze finally calmed down and exclaimed in shock.
“Heavenly Annihilation — the ultimate attack in this world!” Many looked at the ancestral ground that was now a dark crater, then they looked at the unerasable remnant in the sky. They felt their entire bodies become slowly drenched in cold sweat.
Even the spectating ancestors from the great powers were shivering since even they would die under such a blow!
However, they didn’t know that it was not a Heavenly Annihilation nor an Imperial Massacre. Li Qiye’s Immortal’s Blood Spear was neither a Life treasure nor True Treasure! It was just that this spear had once tasted the blood of an Immortal Emperor as it pierced through his throat!
Li Qiye took the group of Li Shuangyan on a journey to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. He was not willing to accept the escape of the Evil Subduing Rod; he wanted to seize it as the Realm God was attacking the ancient kingdom.
However, before he could reach it, a thunderous message spread across the Eastern Hundred Cities that left everyone aghast. “The Brilliance Divine Beast Protector has been slain by the Realm God! The ancient kingdom has surrendered!”
The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom — one sect with two emperors. This unshakable monster within the Eastern Hundred Cities had to surrender before the murderous might of the Realm God!
“The Realm God has shown mercy to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. The kingdom will pay ten times the losses the academy suffered last year and will declare a state of containment. They will never come into being again!” While everyone was still dumbfounded from shock due to the first piece of news, the second piece of news that was even more shocking arrived.
Everyone became paralyzed for a long time; an Ancient Kingdom had been defeated!
“The Realm God is too fast!” Li Qiye heard the news before they arrived and couldn’t help but smile awkwardly. Since the Realm God forgave the ancient kingdom, there was no chance for him to get the Evil Subduing Rod.
“The Realm God is too merciful.” Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King couldn’t help but say.
Sikong Toutian shook his head in response: “The Heavenly Dao Academy had always been like this. Also, destroying the Brilliance emperor foundation must not be so easy. It was very likely that the Realm God didn’t want to leave the academy for so long, so it spared the ancient kingdom.”
“Damn! Let us go, I have lost an Immortal Emperor True Treasure!” Li Qiye was quite annoyed and regretted delaying his first move. If he knew this was going to happen, he would have suppressed the True Treasure first before doing anything else.
The terrifying news regarding the ancient kingdom’s defeat and the destruction of the Tiger’s Howl School swept through the Eastern Hundred Cities overnight, startling countless people.
“This generation is over for the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. Even though the merciful Realm God spared the kingdom, its Divine Beast Protector, all of its ancestors, and even the elders and protectors died in the battle! After just one fight, the elites of the kingdom were basically wiped out. Even if they sealed their kingdom for a generation, they would not be able to recover and will be on the decline from now on.” An ancestor who witnessed the battle with his own eyes spoke with his back still drenched in cold sweat.
The Realm God’s domination could even take down a monstrous existence with two emperors, so what other lineages dared to oppose the academy now?
During the time when people were still trying to cope with this news, on the second day, right outside of the Heavenly Dao Academy, a group of gray-haired old men all prostrated right outside of the academy. These were all famed existences, the ancestors of the great powers that were involved in the alliance that sieged the academy that year!
“The great powers’ ancestors who participated in that battle are kneeling right outside of the academy’s entrance. They’re ready to accept their punishment and are willing to commit suicide to make amends!” This shocking news quickly got out.
Even many students from the academy were unable to remain calm. These gray-haired old men prostrating before their gate were all apex existences that could look down with disdain towards Heavenly Kings. But today, they were all kneeling for forgiveness!
The fate of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom scared everyone shitless. The great powers who participated in that alliance couldn’t do anything except admit their crimes; their ancestors were willing to kneel down before the academy and pay for all the damage the academy suffered last year. They were even willing to commit suicide as long as the Realm God agreed to spare their sects just like how it spared the ancient kingdom!
The other great powers were not comparable to a duel emperor sect like the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, so opposing the academy was like throwing an egg at a stone. Ultimately, these ancestors didn’t dare to waste time on thinking. They all ran here overnight to kneel before the academy and beg the Realm God to forgive their sects!
The sheer amount of ancestors kneeling right outside the academy created a scenery that would render spectators speechless.
“This is how a man should be!” After seeing this scene, Chi Xiaodao, who managed to barely escape with his life, felt his blood boil.
Li Qiye smiled and said: “There will come a day when myriad races in the Nine Worlds come to pay tribute to me, and all the gods and devils shall prostrate before me.”
These overbearing words astonished the group of Sikong Toutian. It sounded so arrogant that it was almost to the point of being ignorant, but at this second, it was as if they could envision the scene foretold by Li Qiye!
After this heaven-shaking battle, the entire Eastern Hundred Cities was in a state of panic, especially those great powers who participated in the battle that year. It was as if a calamity was looming over their heads.
The Realm God sweeping over the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom in one night had scared many people witless; if an Immortal Emperor did not come out, there might not be anyone who was capable of fighting the Realm God.
On the third day, after paying a substantial price to earn the Realm God’s forgiveness, many great powers were finally able to breathe a sigh of relief since they were finally able to avert this disaster!
Ever since the Black Dragon King fought against Immortal Emperor Ta Kong, there had not been an event as great as the decline of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. Even a dual emperor monster could fall before the might of an invincible existence, so no other great powers were safe.
Compared to the defeat of the ancient kingdom, the destruction of the Tiger’s Howl School was not a hot topic. This was not anything strange. Since the school and the ancient kingdom were not even close to the same level, its destruction was not as impressive.
It was not until four or five day later when everyone recovered from the shock of the ancient kingdom’s defeat did the destruction of the Tiger’s Howl School come into the view of many great powers.
“One wrong move from the Tiger’s Howl School costed them everything. They lost the inheritance that was accumulated bit by bit by their past ancestors.” After hearing the news, a person lamented with emotion.
Another person added: “The Tiger’s Howl School is finished. It is just like what Li Qiye said, there will no longer be a Tiger’s Howl School at the Eastern Hundred Cities from now on!”
At that time, Li Qiye had announced that the school’s name would be erased from the Eastern Hundred Cities. Countless people then sneered at his overestimation of his own abilities. However, those people were now regretting everything. Why did they feel the need to mouth off Li Qiye in such a manner? What if Li Qiye retaliated? Wouldn’t they become the second Tiger’s Howl School!?
In the eyes of many, the Tiger’s Howl School was finished, but there was still a chance for the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom in the far future. This generation was finished for them since they had to seal themselves, but their emperor foundation still remained. This was not the case for the Tiger’s Howl School. It lost its ancestral foundation, and moreover, even its White Tiger Great Vein had been sucked dry of its worldly essence by Li Qiye, so only ruins remained.
Although many disciples managed to escape, the loss of the ancestral foundation and the great vein had completely cut off all hope for the school.
A great power could come back from losing its elites in battle and also endure the loss of weapons and merit laws. After all, any great power could find all of these things in the future and train new personnel.
However, the destruction of the ancestral foundation was irrecoverable. The ancestral foundations of these great powers were all paved by extremely powerful existences. If one was not a Virtuous Paragon, then they would not even be qualified to talk about erecting a kingdom or a sect.
The ancestral foundation of a power was the embodiment of the effort of the past sages. It was the result of their blood and sweat of countless generations.
Fixing a destroyed ancestral foundation was even more difficult than reaching for the heavens.
However, what was even more disastrous was the destruction of the great vein. This was the real cause for despair.
Chapter 375 - Preparing For The Journey
Take a step back and look at the overarching situation. Even if a great power’s ancestral foundation was destroyed, it would still have the chance to be rebuilt in the future. However, if a great vein was destroyed, then it would truly be over. Great veins were created by the heaven and earth after millions of years of accumulation.
A destroyed ancestral foundation meant that it could not be recovered for a generation, but a destroyed great vein meant that it could never be rebuilt!
After both were destroyed, even when their young and old managed to escape along with some disciples, there was no chance for them to rebuild the Tiger’s Howl School.
Regarding this topic, a sect master emotionally said: “Destroying a sect just like he said… This Li Qiye is really too heaven-defying and devilish. As long as he is alive, all of the other descendants from both the great powers and ancient kingdoms will be completely eclipsed. This isn’t the work of a human!”
To single-handedly destroy a great power… Forget about the younger generation, even predecessors at the Heavenly King realm didn’t have this kind of power. Even the legendary four ominous graves of the Tiger’s Howl School couldn’t stop him, so how could people not become horrified?
At this point, whenever the conversation was about Li Qiye, the other geniuses from many lineages turned sour as they could only stay silent.
Back in those days when Li Qiye had just arrived at the Eastern Hundred Cities, many geniuses and descendants paid him no mind. However, after sweeping through everything and destroying the Tiger’s Howl School, all of those geniuses who once looked down on him were frightened and found themselves lacking when compared to him.
“With the current situation, I’m afraid even Goddess Mei Suyao and Deity Jikong Wudi have been overshadowed by Li Qiye. With a fierce monster like him, would any other young person have a chance to shine?” A great character from the last generation exasperatedly said.
A prosperous age arrived with the end of the Difficult Dao Era, so many great powers hoped that their disciples could compete for the apex against all the other heroes of this generation. Before this, geniuses like Hu Yue, Ba Xia, Zu Huangwu, and Heavenly Prince Qing Xuan were already running the other young prodigies out of breath.
As for Mei Suyao and Jikong Wudi, these two were at an unreachable height. Like divine mountains, they blocked the path of the entire younger generation.
However, the Li Qiye of today sent countless peers into despair. As long as he remained in the Eastern Hundred Cities, they would only feel fear. Every young cultivator had to retreat before his sight. Since he could destroy a grand sect, who could manage to oppose him?
This storm of a discussion lasted for a long time; some were happy and some were sad regarding such a great event.
When many were bustling and busy with small talk, Li Qiye had returned to the Heavenly Dao Academy. However, before his return, he summoned the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King.
The Heavenly King was a famous character even amongst the previous generation’s experts. But today, he didn’t dare to put on a show before Li Qiye.
Li Qiye took out the ancient box that Lion Monarch Ba Xia gave him. This box was meant for the Heavenly King. After opening the box, he was completely taken aback.
“This… This is my ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law! How is this possible?” The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King stuttered in astonishment: “E-even my clan did not have this!”
Chi Xiaodao, Chi Xiaodie, and their father — who were beside him — were also shocked. An Immortal Physique Law was something that even Immortal Emperor lineages coveted.
The Heavenly King stared at Li Qiye in disbelief, since this item that was not even in their clan’s possession was in his hands.
In their clan, there was a rumor that the lost Immortal Physique Law was taken away by their ancestor. In exchange, their ancestor left behind a copy, but later on, even the copy was lost. From that point on, their clan no longer had an Immortal Physique Law.
“It is nothing.” Li Qiye nonchalantly said: “I have met your ancestor back at the Heavenly Corpse Burial Ground and sowed a karmic fruit with him. I promised him to let his descendants reap the benefits of the fruit, so I am here to give you back your ancestor’s belonging.”
“The Heavenly Corpse Burial Ground!” The Heavenly King was too dumbfounded to speak. After a while, he managed to calm down. He took a deep breath before speaking: “So our ancestor truly is staying at the burial ground! I have also tried to go there, but unfortunately, I couldn’t go in very deep!”
The Heavenly King had heard of their ancestor being buried at the heavenly ground. After their Immortal Physique Law was lost, he wanted to go inside to find their ancestor, but what kind of place was the burial ground? Even a Heavenly King would find it difficult to enter the burial ground, let alone reach the legendary dragon vein where the ancestor was buried.
So even though he tried to explore the location, it was an unsuccessful endeavor. In the end, he couldn’t do anything and had to give up, so he shifted his gaze towards the Heavenly Dao Academy.
After a long struggle, he managed to calm down and bowed to Li Qiye: “Your kindness to our Lion’s Roar Gate cannot be described with mere words. From now on, if you ever find yourself in need of our assistance, we shall do our best without any hesitation no matter how arduous the task may be!”
The excitement in the Heavenly King’s mind was unspeakable. This was an item craved by all, yet Li Qiye gave it to him so easily!
For him, this was too important. He was missing the complete version of his ancestor’s law, so Li Qiye giving this back was akin to giving him coal during the cold, wintry days!
One has to keep in mind that the Heavenly King was a natural born Saint Physique, so his aptitude was very high. However, despite his great circumstances, he spent his whole life to barely reach the minor completion of his Immortal Physique, and this was with the help of the hall masters of the academy that found an Immortal Physique Law of his ancestor.
Today, Li Qiye bringing back their ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law was of great significance to both the Heavenly King and his sect.
Regarding the Heavenly King’s pledge of allegiance, Li Qiye only smiled and didn’t say anything else. He then immediately left with the group of Li Shuangyan.
Before his departure, the Heavenly King spoke privately to Chi Xiaodie. In his opinion, his granddaughter’s future was boundless if she followed Li Qiye, so that was his hope.
Li Qiye went back to the Heavenly Dao Academy where all the geniuses from both the Zenith Era Hall and Sacred Era Hall lost their colors before him. Especially those who were antagonistic towards him in the past, they quickly took the scenic route whenever they caught a glimpse of him. How could they mess with someone who easily destroyed the Tiger’s Howl School? Wouldn’t that be courting death?
As for the disciples of the Grand Era Hall, its students were ecstatic to hear of his return and they even put on a very warm welcoming ceremony. There were so many enthusiastic sisters that it became a bit unbearable for Li Qiye, so he left this trifling matter to Chi Xiaodie. He was too lazy to show himself afterward.
He no longer intended to stay here any longer; instead, he planned to go to the Sacred Nether World!
After appointing a time with the Realm God, Li Qiye prepared to leave. But before the decided time, Li Qiye spoke to Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao: “The two of you should go back. I will come back after dealing with my business at the Sacred Nether World.”
“How about we go with you to the Sacred Nether World?” Chen Baojiao didn’t dare to ask, but Li Shuangyan wanted to tag along.
Li Qiye smiled and shook his head to say: “Under normal circumstances, I would surely take you two along, but right now, it is not possible. The world path connecting the nine worlds had been destroyed, so the spatial wall is very hard to crack. Although the Realm God has the power to open the spatial wall, it is still very dangerous. Having more people go would only add to the Realm God’s burden. And what’s even more crucial is that my destination is a bit problematic, so you guys following me will only add to the mess. Next time, I will take you guys along to the other worlds.”
Relative to others, Li Qiye favored and thought highly of Chen Baojiao and Li Shuangyan.
The two indeed wanted to go to the Sacred Nether World to broaden their horizons, but after hearing what Li Qiye said, they had to give up on this thought. In the end, nothing was more important to them than Li Qiye’s safety.
Eventually, Li Qiye took out the Black Tortoise Rod and the Imperial Violet Hammer. He wanted to let the two take them back to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, so he reminded them: “Try your best not to use these items unless there is no other choice. Let them be the secret treasures of the sect.”
Immortal Emperor Life Treasures were definitely things that could incite the greedy hearts of others; any sect would desire this kind of powerful item. Not to mention that his weapons were also taken by force, thus giving others a justifiable reason to steal them. Li Qiye hoped for the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect to use them carefully in order to avoid trouble in the future.
“What about you?” Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao were startled by this, and Chen Baojiao had to ask. Regardless of who it was, having two emperor weapons as protection was better than anything else.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but reveal a smile to say: “Your Young Noble has many protective treasures. These are only Life Treasures — not anything, really. Next time, I will seize a few Immortal Emperor True Treasures.”
Chen Baojiao couldn’t help but chuckle upon hearing this, and Li Shuangyan also smiled. To others, emperor weapons were something that they could only come upon with luck and fate, but their Young Noble made it sound as if they were easily obtainable.
Chapter 376 - Past Grievances
Before leaving for the Sacred Nether World, Li Qiye returned the Immortal’s Blood Spear to Zi Cuining. She then asked after accepting the spear: “I have to go back to the Heaven Protector City, do you have anything that you want me to do?”
Li Qiye gave her a look and smiled: “Even if I have something for you to do, I’m afraid you wouldn’t believe me. Forget it, I’ll personally visit your Heaven Protector City later.”
In fact, he would have gone to the Heaven Protector City sooner or later anyway. However, he was not in a rush at the moment. Although he didn’t mind starting a massacre at the Heaven Protector City, out of love for the Black Dragon King, he didn’t hope that it would escalate to such a state.
“Tell me. If I am capable, then I will surely lend you a hand!” Zi Cuining pondered for a moment before speaking.
Li Qiye was all smiles as he said: “If you really want my advice, then I’ll give you one: keep an eye out for Gu Zun.”
Zi Cuining’s mind trembled after she heard Li Qiye’s words. Keep in mind that Gu Zun was an elder of their Heaven Protector City, the one who was truly in power. One could even describe him as their high ancestor.
And now, an outsider wants her, the descendant, to watch out for her own ancestor! If it was anyone else, they would surely think that Li Qiye was crazy.
“See, you do not believe me at all.” Li Qiye waved his hand and smiled: “Just let it be up to fate. Do whatever you want as long as you maintain a hint of caution.”
Zi Cuining became silent for a moment. However, she wasn’t able to hold back her question: “Do you have some sort of grievance with our Ancestor Gu?”
“Grievance?” Li Qiye squinted his eyes and gently shook his head as he smiled: “Frankly, your Gu Zun is still not worthy of having a feud with me!”
If it wasn’t because of the Black Dragon King’s plea, Li Qiye would have already killed Gu Zun in a past era instead of letting him do as he pleased at the Heaven Protector City.
However, he chose not to bring this up.
Zi Cuining’s gaze became serious. Any other listener would think that Li Qiye’s tone was too boastful because Gu Zun of the Heaven Protector City was one of the strongest existences. Perhaps, he was only a little bit weaker than the Realm God!
She became quite perplexed because their Ancestor Gu had not come into being for a very long time. Logically speaking, he should have never met Li Qiye, so there should not have been a chance for grievances to form between the two of them. However, Li Qiye was clearly antagonistic towards him.
“All right, Little Girl, I know you have a lot of questions on your mind, but I cannot reveal many things to you. In short, you came from the Little Sea Village, so you will not be on the same side as Old Man Gu Zun. Regarding this, you can go talk to the old men in the village.”
“As for Gu Zun ah… If you really want to know, then I can tell you one thing.” Li Qiye greatly valued Zi Cuining, so he revealed one thing to her: “Your Heaven Protector City has a certain treasury, a real treasure trove that is vastly superior to your city’s treasury!”
“A treasury…” Zi Cuining was stunned for a moment with a shocked expression! She was then reminded of a few things that were not talked about back at the city. Its disciples did not know about this, and she only sometimes heard a few ancestors talk about it in secrecy, so she didn’t know the exact details regarding this particular treasury.
Now, Li Qiye raised this issue that was unbeknown to her, the official descendant of the city, as if he knew everything.
“It seems that you don’t know about this matter!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “It does not belong to your Heaven Protector City, but Gu Zun had coveted it for a very long time!”
This was Li Qiye’s treasury! But of course, he could not say these words.
“What kind of treasury is it?” Zi Cuining took a deep breath and asked after failing to hold onto her curiosity.
“Well, how should I say this…” Li Qiye smiled and leisurely said: “If Immortal Emperors knew about this treasury, they would start to salivate uncontrollably. There are things in there that even they do not possess!”
Zi Cuining couldn’t help but become astounded. A treasury coveted even by Immortal Emperors! Just what kind of treasury was this?
“Gu Zun had been after this treasury for a very long time, but unfortunately for him, he would not be able to open it even if he had ten generations of time.” Li Qiye shook his head and said: “Your so-called ancestor is only an ungrateful wretch. Too much time has passed, and your city’s ancestors have nearly all passed away. That year, if it wasn’t for the intercession of your Patriarch, the Black Dragon King, an ingrate like Gu Zun would have been thrown into the Blue Abyss a long time ago!”
“You are besmirching our ancestor’s name!” Zi Cuining could no longer bear it and had to protest. In the end, she was still the Heaven Protector descendant.
Li Qiye gently shook his head and replied with a smile: “It is fine if you don’t believe me. If there is still an old man from the same generation as Gu Zun, you can go back and ask about it to see whether or not Gu Zun was nearly thrown into the Blue Abyss that year. If it wasn’t for your Black Dragon King… Hah! Even if he had ten more lives, it still wouldn’t be enough!”
The stunned Zi Cuining had to think about this for a moment. When their Patriarch, the Black Dragon King, was still of this world, their city’s prestige towered over the Nine Worlds. Who would dare to oppose them? Who would actually dare to capture their Ancestor Gu and attempt to throw him into the Blue Abyss only to have their Patriarch intervene?
A very long time ago, Li Qiye wanted to kill Gu Zun. However, the Black Dragon King had promised a certain somebody to take care of her descendants. During that era, Li Qiye ordered his followers to capture Gu Zun and throw him into the Blue Abyss, but he was let go on account of the Black Dragon King.
Zi Cuining was in a daze since she had never heard of this tale before. She couldn’t even imagine it. Who would dare to capture Ancestor Zu while their Patriarch was still alive?
This was definitely a tale that could pierce the heavens, but there were no rumors about it at the Heaven Protector City. Zi Cuining became quite curious about what type of person was it that warranted their Patriarch’s personal plea!?
“No need to think too much, just do a good job at cultivating. The matter of Old Man Gu cannot be inquired with your current cultivation!” Li Qiye shook his head and continued on: “Wait until you are powerful enough to be in charge of the Heaven Protector City. Then, I will let you know. Right now, all you need to do is cultivate well. Do not disappoint me.”
After hearing this, Zi Cuining paused for a moment, especially because of the implications of his last sentence.
Zi Cuining didn’t understand why Li Qiye knew so much about their Heaven Protector City at all, but she felt that there was a great relationship between Li Qiye and the city. It was just that she was not privy to the exact details.
After meeting Li Qiye, she felt that there were many secrets behind the city that she did not know.
Sometimes, she even suspected that the reason behind her becoming the descendant of the city was not so simple. A long time ago, an ancestor once told her that she had unparalleled talents and was chosen as the new descendant by the other elders. Later on, there was another rumor saying that she was the heir chosen by the Patriarch many generations ago.
To this day, she herself was in doubt about whether becoming the descendant was due to her own talents, or if it was due to the Black Dragon King choosing her since she came from the Little Sea Village.
She had absolute confidence in her talents, but after experiencing a few things, she felt that the selection for her to become the successor was more than what it appeared to be on the surface.
Especially after meeting Li Qiye, she became suspicious of both of these possibilities. Perhaps it was not the Black Dragon King’s choice, and perhaps it wasn’t even because of her unparalleled talents. It could be an unknown reason that stemmed from behind the scenes.
“All right, Little Girl, don’t think too much!” Seeing her in a daze, Li Qiye shook his head and said with a smile: “There are certain things that you would be better off not knowing right now. The only thing you need to do is to train in peace!”
Zi Cuining finally took a deep breath and said: “Very well, I will wait for you to come to my Heaven Protector City in the future!”
Li Qiye smiled and said: “I certainly must go to the Heaven Protector City, but you shouldn’t look forward to it too much. My trip to the city will not necessarily be a good thing. If it does not bode well, then rivers will run with blood!”
With a shaken heart, Zi Cuining quietly left. She immediately departed from the academy on that very day to run back to the Heaven Protector City.
After she left, Li Qiye couldn’t help but sigh softly.
Before Li Qiye’s trip to the Sacred Nether World could begin, Old Daoist Peng came to see him. Of course, he didn’t come to see Li Qiye off.
“Hehe, I heard from the Realm God that Young Noble Li wants to go to the Sacred Nether World!” The old daoist said with a grin.
Li Qiye gave him a look and said: “If you have something to say, then say it. Don’t walk in circles with me!” 1
The old daoist let out an awkward laugh and replied: “Heh, I heard that the Sacred Nether World’s Islet Ghost Eyes is a delicacy known throughout the Nine Worlds. This old daoist wants to have a taste, and since Young Noble Li is going to the Sacred Nether World, do you mind taking me along?”
Li Qiye glared at him and said: “You should be asking the Realm God, not me. So? Did it refuse you?”
The old daoist was very embarrassed and tried to hide it with a smile. Li Qiye shook his head and said: “Forget it, this is an impossible matter. My destination is a bit problematic, and the Realm God cannot guarantee an accurate landing. Not to mention, rather than bringing an old man like you to the Sacred Nether World, I would rather bring a beauty as my companion. At least she would be more pleasing to the eyes than you.”
Before leaving for the Sacred Nether World, Li Qiye returned the Immortal’s Blood Spear to Zi Cuining. She then asked after accepting the spear: “I have to go back to the Heaven Protector City, do you have anything that you want me to do?”
Li Qiye gave her a look and smiled: “Even if I have something for you to do, I’m afraid you still wouldn’t believe me. Forget it, I’ll personally visit your Heaven Protector City later.”
In fact, he would go to the Heaven Protector City sooner or later anyway. However, he was not in a rush at the moment. Although he didn’t mind starting a massacre at the Heaven Protector City, out of love for the Black Dragon King, he didn’t hope that it would escalate to such a state.
“Tell me. If I am capable, then I will surely lend you a hand!” Zi Cuining pondered for a moment before speaking.
Chapter 377 - Departure
Li Qiye’s words left the old daoist with a sad face. Then, Li Qiye looked at him and continued on: “It might seem that you are firm, but your heart has been wavering. If you continue on like this, when will you ever finish cultivating the Eternal Physique?”
The old face of the daoist became hot as he forced a wry smile: “Hehehe, it is only a little trip to the outside. Cultivating day after day is very boring. Taking in some fresh air will help my cultivation.”
“If that is the case, then you should take a trip to the Grand Middle Territory.” Li Qiye became serious and said: “There are a few secret realms in that region. I can tell you some of the locations, so you can try to find some supreme delicacies. And since you will already be in the region, you can just stay at the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect for around ten years as a guest elder. It would not be a bad choice.”
“Hah, you want to drag me into a pit of fire!” Old Daoist Peng was not willing to do so and replied: “This would be a laborious trip…” The old daoist was as cunning as a devil.
Li Qiye glanced at him and leisurely said with a smile: “If you don’t want to go, then I won’t force you. However, I think there really are ruins from the Legendary Era that had not been visited by anyone for a long long time. The divine carp in that sacred lake might have become a god… Buzhou Mountain’s Snapper… This must be the most delicious thing in this world, something that only belongs in the land of fairies…” 1
Li Qiye then swayed his head around as if he was imagining this unique and extremely delicious fish.
“Buzhou Mountain’s Snapper…” After hearing these words, the old daoist couldn’t help but swallow his saliva several times before asking: “Where are these ruins located?”
“Oh?” Li Qiye stretched his words a lot and said: “Such a good location… I could only let the guest elders of my sect know. How could I possibly tell an outsider about it?”
“Hehehe, I will go discuss it with my little brothers. If they give me permission, then I will go to the Grand Middle Territory!” The old daoist quickly rubbed his hands together and eagerly spoke.
Li Qiye laughed and told him the location of several places. After listening, the old daoist crazily gulped several times as if the delicacies were right before his eyes. He then loudly exclaimed before disappearing like a bolt of lightning: “I will go and discuss it with my little brothers!”
Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile as he watched the speeding figure of the old daoist. If the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had an expert like the old daoist as a guest, then it would become even more powerful!
Before leaving, Li Qiye went to see Chi Xiaodie and said: “Return to the Lion’s Roar Gate. And if you want to stay at the academy, then just stay for one to two more years. Staying any longer would be unnecessary.”
Chi Xiaodie looked at him with rampant and indescribable emotions. She wanted to say something, but the words wouldn’t come out. In the end, she could only put on a dejected look.
“Silly girl.” Li Qiye gently stroked her hair and said: “I will one day come back to the Eastern Hundred Cities. Of course, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect will always welcome you as well.”
She finally relaxed with a smile after hearing this, but she still didn’t say anything in the end.
The day of the trip had finally arrived, and Li Qiye was well prepared. He immediately went to the Realm God’s dwelling with Li Shuangyan and the other girls sending him off; Old Daoist Peng tagged along as well.
As they passed by the Elegant Peak, Li Qiye couldn’t help but look at it from the distance. Being aware of this, the old daoist quietly whispered: “Do you want to say goodbye to the Matriarch?”
Li Qiye shook his head while gazing at the peak and replied: “No need, there will be another meeting eventually!” Having said that, he withdrew his gaze and left!
In the depths of the Heavenly Dao Academy, there was an ancient pine tree as majestic as a dragon. This was the first time Li Shuangyan and the others saw the Realm God. After realizing that the Realm God was only a pine tree, they couldn’t help but become astonished. An invincible existence was a mere pine tree, how could anyone believe this?
“Are you ready?” The Realm God’s old voice appeared.
Li Qiye took in a deep breath and said: “I’m ready, take me to that place!”
“I want to check the spatial walls. I’m not quite sure if I can take you to your desired location, but regardless of whether the spatial turbulence will happen or not, I can still take you to the Sacred Nether World.” The Realm God said.
Li Qiye solemnly nodded and said: “This is not an issue. Even if it is another location, I have other means of entering.”
“Begin!” The Realm God didn’t say anything else as a branch slowly reached forward. This branch had the thickness of a thumb, but its bark was like the scales of dragons; it was seemingly very tough like the spear of a god. Li Qiye waved goodbye to the group of Li Shuangyan, then he jumped on top of this branch and said with a serious tone: “Take me there!”
“Go!” The Realm God lightly shouted as the pine branch raised Li Qiye and then disappeared in the horizon in just a mere second. This pine branch from the depths of the academy stretched all the way to the firmament.
The pine branch used an unimaginable speed to take Li Qiye, who was standing on top of it, all the way out to space as it headed towards a certain location. Its speed was comparable to traveling via dao portals.
Before the branch of the Realm God, even the void and stars were quickly retreating from its path.
“The Sacred Nether World has an ominous land. Maybe that devilish thing will come into being in this generation.” During the trip, the Realm God’s voice rang by Li Qiye’s ear.
Li Qiye laughed and said: “Speaking of ominous lands, they are all over the Nine Worlds. They are only things of the ancient past; even the Mortal Emperor World has such a place, but it is simply in a dormant state.”
“Right.” The Realm God agreed with some careful thought.
“As for that devilish thing at the Sacred Nether World… I really hope that this thing will crawl out from that ghastly place. Hah, that thing has been hiding for so long that a few mysteries of the Sacred Nether World have something to do with it. As long as it climbs out, then there would be a chance to learn the answers about all of them.” Li Qiye said with a serious expression.
The Realm God did not respond to Li Qiye. This issue had something to do with a big secret of this world; it even involved an old divination from previous generations!
In the blink of an eye, the Realm God finally took Li Qiye to a certain place in space. Those who had never seen this scene before would surely be shocked.
In the depths of the endless space, a towering ancient city could be seen. However, there were no inhabitants and no sign of life as if it had been deserted for a long time.
“Stargate ah, something capable of reaching all the other worlds. Not long from now, this place will become very prosperous; a place where all the major heritages will stay together.” Li Qiye said with emotion after seeing this abandoned ancient city.
“Back then, during that day when the Black Dragon King fought against Immortal Emperor Ta Kong, they didn’t dare to stay in the Nine Worlds and had to enter space, the battlefield of the Legendary Era, but they still destroyed everything.” The Realm God continued on: “The Black Dragon King tore apart the Heaven’s Will and eventually broke the channels that connected the Nine Worlds, so the spatial walls became sealed. From that day on, the Nine Worlds were separated and cultivators could no longer travel from one world to another. Even people capable of opening the divine investiture list could not do it carelessly.” 2
Over thirty thousand years ago, the Nine Worlds were connected. As long as one had enough refined jades or was powerful enough, they could use stargates. Each world had a stargate capable of traveling to another world as long as one could pay the fee.
Unfortunately, the fight between the two great ones destroyed the paths to the Nine Worlds, so the connections were completely severed.
In fact, within the last thirty thousand years, many people tried to open the path to the other worlds. Unfortunately, since the spatial walls were closed, it was impossibly difficult.
Even if one could open a channel, the path itself would be extremely unstable. Even Virtuous Paragons would not recklessly attempt to use such a channel since the collapse of the path would result in unimaginable consequences. Even death was not out of the question.
When the Realm God took Li Qiye into space, many people were alarmed when they saw a pine branch stretching out into the sky.
“What is the Realm God doing?” After the Realm God’s heaven-shaking battle, at this moment, even a whiff of the wind from the academy would garner the focus of all others. So this sudden move from the Realm God instantly startled many old undyings within the Eastern Hundred Cities. In a short period of time, many looked up towards the horizon while the more powerful cultivators opened their heavenly gazes to look all the way out into space.
These ancestors saw a branch of the Realm God carrying Li Qiye into space, and they all became quite surprised. A heavenly gaze of an ancestor noticed their destination and murmured: “That is the place with the stargate!”
Many ancestors and legendary masters were touched by this scene. Ever since the paths that connected the Nine Worlds were destroyed, all of the lineages in this world deserted the stargate, so it became an empty city in the last thirty thousand years.
Very few people traveled to the stargate in recent years, since traveling in space necessitated a great flying treasure with a powerful master at the helm.
In the present times, there was no point in going to the stargate, so no masters were willing to waste their time doing such a thing.
Today, the Realm God suddenly carrying Li Qiye to the stargate shocked many people. An ancestor from a great sect took a deep breath and muttered: “Is this Li Qiye trying to go to another world!?”
Many shivered as they came up with such a thought. Li Qiye, at the Mortal Emperor World, was able to do as he pleased. Why did he suddenly want to go to another world?
“So bold! He wants to go to another world in the present times. He has to forcefully open the spatial wall; it is hard to imagine the consequences of failure.” Even a legendary master felt a chill in his heart.
Li Qiye’s words left the old daoist with a sad face. Then, Li Qiye looked at him and continued on: “It might seem that you look to be firm, but your heart has been wavering. If you continue on like this, when will you ever finish cultivating the Eternal Physique?”
The old face of the daoist became hot as he forced a wry smile: “Hehehe, it is only a little trip to the outside. Cultivating day after day is very boring. Taking in some fresh air will help my cultivation.”
“If that is the case, then you should take a trip to the Grand Middle Territory.” Li Qiye became serious and said: “There are a few secret realms in that region. I can tell you some of the locations, you can try to find some supreme delicacies. And since you will already be in the region, you can just stay at the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect for around ten years as a guest elder. It would not be a bad choice.”
“Hah, you want to drag me into the pit of fire!” Old Daoist Peng was not willing to do so and replied: “This would a laborious trip…” The old daoist was as cunning as a devil.
Chapter 378 - Entering The Sacred Nether World
In fact, after the paths collapsed, there were legendary masters who wanted to forcefully penetrate the spatial wall to enter another world, but alas, no one had heard of a successful attempt. Later on, even when a Divine Investiture Expert came into being to open a path, they still did not dare to enter the channel.
This type of channel was extremely unstable and could collapse at any moment. Even a more powerful existence would die under such a force.
“In the current Mortal Emperor World, I’m afraid that only the Realm God can safely go to another world.” An ancestor from a great sect had to admit this fact amidst the astonished spectators.
The reason why the Realm God had this title was because of the rumors of it being an existence that was most adept in spatial techniques. Some said that the Realm God’s achievement in spatial techniques shamed even Immortal Emperors…
In a short amount of time, countless gazes were fixated towards the sky. Of course, all of them wanted to see if the Realm God could actually take Li Qiye to another world. Then, there were those who were both celebrating and lamenting: “Nothing could be better than Li Qiye going to another world. Let a devil like him bully the geniuses of the other worlds. A monster like him staying at the Mortal Emperor World would only overshadow all the other geniuses.”
Even though this thought was a bit depressing for many people, they looked forward to Li Qiye’s departure from the Mortal Emperor World. A supreme existence like Li Qiye was a form of cruel emotional torture to all the other geniuses since he loomed over them like a huge shadow.
A monster like this going to another world to bully other people was worthy of celebration.
At the area where the stargate was situated, an ancient dao platform had been silenced for more than thirty thousand years. At this time, the Realm God used a great technique to create an extremely large dao gate that shone brightly. Anyone who stood before this dao gate would feel as if one could traverse across space and time.
“Ready?” Eventually, the Realm God asked Li Qiye with a serious tone. Even an invincible existence like the Realm God became solemn. If it was personally traveling, then it could absolutely make it to the Sacred Nether World unscathed, but at this moment, it was Li Qiye who was going.
The Yin Yang Refining Immortal Mirror appeared over Li Qiye’s head. This supreme treasure of the Middle Continent Ancient Kingdom poured an endless immortal spatial void to protect Li Qiye’s body. At the same time, the Yin Yang fishes jumped out and swam around him.
“Go, I am ready. You can lock onto the coordinates now!” Li Qiye took a deep breath and, with a serious expression, he then nodded his head towards the Realm God.
The pine branch raised Li Qiye up along with a shout from the Realm God: “Open!”
The moment this word came out, a buzzing sound could be heard. In this instant, the pine tree was like the sharpest divine spear in this world, something that could be stopped by nothing.
In just a second, the pine tree that carried Li Qiye entered the dao gate. His body was suddenly trapped in a giant crystal.
With a loud “pop,” the unstoppable pine branch pierced through this unbelievably thick crystal barricade.
It seemed like such an easy matter, but all the cultivators back at the Eastern Hundred Cities felt a powerful wave that emanated from the Heavenly Dao Academy when this blow hit. An invincible aura swept through the cities; this sudden eruption sent chills down the spines of many people.
At this moment, everyone understood that the Realm God’s blood energy had exploded in order to unleash a heaven-destroying strike.
“This blow might have penetrated the spatial wall!” A legendary master murmured after calculating the power of this attack from sensing the invincible aura that swept through the region.
With a “pop,” the pine tree punctured the crystal wall and quickly sent Li Qiye into a pathway. In this split second, Li Qiye witnessed an extremely magnificent world that was filled with life and endless vitality. Anyone would be astonished by such a scene since the landscape of an entire world was before their very eyes.
In this instant, the Realm God locked onto a certain coordinate. Then, the pathway sent Li Qiye off like a storm, using the Realm God’s utmost speed.
The endless storm within the pathway chaotically destroyed everything. The turbulence of time and space was something to be feared; even Virtuous Paragons were no exceptions. In this place, carelessness would only result in death.
However, the Realm God was indeed a divine existence. At this time, it used an unbelievable speed to send Li Qiye through the majority of the turbulence. Time itself was not a match for his speed, so spatial gaps were no longer a concern.
Li Qiye was sent to a certain chaotic sphere. It was as if this sphere had naturally formed itself and was then filled with great sects of the heaven and earth.
“Boom!” With a deafening explosion, the pine branch also penetrated this chaotic sphere. Keep in mind that this strike of the Realm God could easily kill a large group of Virtuous Paragons, but it still couldn’t pierce through this chaotic sphere.
“Open!” The Realm God crazily roared. At this second, the pine branch became extremely bright and sharp as if it could even pierce through the body of a celestial existence.
“Xhhhshh!” Primordial chaos gushed everywhere after the Realm God finally managed to pierce through this chaotic sphere. Then, it immediately threw Li Qiye inside.
“Bang!” A loud destructive sound resonated right when this chaotic sphere was pierced. Suddenly, an endless wave of emperor aura emerged. This emperor aura instantly annihilated the pathway as if an Immortal Emperor came to life.
“Immortal Emperor Fei Yang, truly amazing!” Li Qiye screamed. With one hand holding the Fragmented Realm Spatial Disk, he slammed it into the chaotic sphere. At the same time, the Yin Yang Refining Immortal Mirror also shot out an immortal light to block the power of this chaotic place!
“Buzzz—” The Yin Yang fishes jumped up and carried Li Qiye as they soared towards the chaos. But during Li Qiye’s advance, the vast emperor aura crazily erupted once again as if it wanted to crush him. At this critical juncture, the Fragmented Realm Spatial Disk spewed out a brilliance and immediately sucked Li Qiye inside.
“Rumble!” The emperor aura failed to crush Li Qiye, resulting in the pathway getting ravaged from the enraged emperor aura. At this time, the Realm God used an unbelievable speed to retreat as the emperor aura wildly pursued it.
“Boom!” In the end, under the devastation of the emperor aura, the entire pathway collapsed. At the most critical moment, the pine branch of the Realm God managed to escape to the outside.
The collapse of the pathway emitted a terrifying power that alarmed even the legendary masters within the Eastern Hundred Cities. Many looked up to the sky and saw the retreating pine branch. An ancestor with keen eyes noticed that there were burn marks on the pine branch, and this astounded many people.
“Did the pathway actually collapse?” Seeing the burns on the pine branch, an ancestor took in a deep breath and murmured: “Where did Li Qiye want to go? Even a pathway opened by the Realm God was destroyed. Just what kind of powerful suppressive force was present at his destination?”
“This is terrible.” The hearts of many legendary masters sank when they saw the wounds on the branch of the Realm God. Even a pathway created by it was destroyed…
The Difficult Dao Era was over, and a new Heaven’s Will was being created to signal the start of a new grand era. Many hidden existences had begun to take action; some even planned to go to different worlds, but after seeing the Realm God’s situation, they quickly dispelled this thought. Despite it personally escorting Li Qiye, the pathway was still destroyed. If it was them who met such an event instead, death would be assured.
The group of Li Shuangyan was shocked to see the wounds on the pine branch back at the academy. They all felt that something terrible had happened.
“He is fine and had arrived safely.” The Realm God spoke. The group of Li Shuangyan finally felt relieved to know that Li Qiye had made it safely. They then bowed to the Realm God before they left.
The Realm God then stared at the horizon and, after a long silence, it finally lamented with a sigh and uttered: “It really is that legendary existence, the most mysterious existence. Tens of millions of long years… This generation will be constantly troubled with restless times. It is truly a pitiable fate for those who live in the same era as him. Who in this world could possibly compete for the Heaven’s Will against him!?”
Eventually, the Realm God no longer spoke and quietly went into a deep slumber.
However, on the second day after Li Qiye’s departure, many pieces of news began to leak.
“Have you heard? People said that Li Qiye wanted to go to another world and, in the end, the pathway collapsed and he died in there.” A person said while acting mysteriously. Despite his attempt at being secretive, there was still a hint of gloating and delight.
Many people naturally became elated after they learned of Li Qiye’s death. A disciple from a great power sneered: “Someone who commits many bad deeds will naturally be punished one day, and that day had finally come.”
“That’s right, the heavens is not blind. It will not forgive anyone!” A personally cheerfully laughed. To people like them, this was the best pieces of news they heard this year.
But there were also those who pitied him. A great character from the previous generation lamented: “Why did he have to seek his own death? He would be alive and kicking if he stayed in the Mortal Emperor World. Why the need to do this!”
“Li Qiye’s might would allow him to tread on the path of the heavens with no problem ah. It could even be said that he had a great chance to reach the Heaven’s Will. But now… he already buried himself before becoming invincible.” A cultivator couldn’t help but say.
“The path of the heavens is arduous, so it is better to be careful. No matter how stunning a genius may be, they could still die an early death on this path.” Someone finally ended with these words.
Tonight’s teaser is from Nahct! Immortal Emperor Bao is busy pumping out Spirit Vessel chapters so I’ve taken over, bwahaha.
There is no going back…
Chapter 379 - Soaring Remembrance Village
The Sacred Nether World and the Mortal Emperor World are two of the Nine Worlds. If the Mortal Emperor World was the ancestral home of the human race, then the Sacred Nether World was the origin of the ghost race.
In fact, whether or not humans originated from the Mortal Emperor World was still up for debate, but since the beginning of the Desolate Era, humans had been at that world and began their explorations. After countless efforts of many sages, they finally took root in that world as the strongest race.
Today, whether or not the Mortal Emperor World was the origin of the human race no longer mattered to its inhabitants. The only pertinent matter was that it had become the ancestral ground for human generations from that point forth.
However, the Sacred Nether World was different, since its ghostly inhabitants were certain that this place was their origin. Of course, certain ghost tribes called this world the Ghost Immortal World because they preferred to call themselves Ghost Immortals, but outsiders kept on calling them the ghost race!
Since this world was the origin of the ghost race, perhaps people would think of it as a place infested with nether energy. However, the reality was that this was completely false. The Sacred Nether World was a place with beautiful scenery, just like the Mortal Emperor World. There were was an endless amount of mountains and rivers worth exploring.
Even the members of the ghost tribes didn’t all have nether energy. In fact, there were many different ghost races with unique characteristics, but outsiders all generalized them together as a unified ghost race to distinguish them with the human race, the blood race, and others.
Only a handful of tribes had a relatively thicker nether aura while others were not that different from ordinary humans. Then, there were also some who had physical bodies and were not actually ghosts. The majority of the ghost tribes were just like humans — their future generations were comprised of their offspring.
The two worlds were similar in that they were extremely vast. There were four domains at the Sacred Nether World; to the east was the Nether Border, the south was the Distant Cloud, the west was the Green River, and the north was the Misty Field. These four locations were called the four desolaces. 1
Even though the ghost race’s origin was located at the Sacred Nether World, they were not unified in this place. This was just like the Mortal Emperor World, where humans were the majority while there were still other races.
It was the same for the Sacred Nether World. The ghost race was the majority, but other races also lived here, such as humans, demons, the blood race, and stone golems…
However, the Nether Border, the Green River, and the Misty Field were the places where ghosts gathered. The few forces from the other races were very weak at these three desolaces.
However, it was different at the Distant Cloud. Humans, demons, stone golems, and others were extremely powerful in this desolace so the ghost race could not rule over this part of the world.
As one of the four desolaces, the Distant Cloud was quite immense with countless inhabitants of varying races living together. It was also filled with numerous cultivators and lineages like carps in rivers.
Weaker sects were too abundant to count, and great powers were also everything in this domain.
However, one must talk about a certain lineage at the Distant Cloud, and it was the Thousand Carp River. It was not a river, it was a sect that ruled over a very powerful country that spanned for tens of millions of miles.
At this place, the Thousand Carp River was absolutely a great and terrifying lineage. It was created by Immortal Emperor Qian Li and had stood strong since its inception. 2 Even in a location where the ghost race reigned supreme, it was still difficult for someone to shake an existence like the Thousand Carp River.
The Thousand Carp River followed the demonic dao because legends state that its progenitor, Immortal Emperor Qian Li, was a demon that was successful in the path of cultivation. Despite this belief, the emperor had always been a mystery, even during their own era.
Some believed that the emperor was a carp, others thought that the emperor was a dragonfish… Some even believed that the emperor was a fish capable of jumping over the dragon gate to finally become an Immortal Emperor.
All in all, there were a variety of theories about Immortal Emperor Qian Li. But of course, they were limited to mere rumors and legends, because the emperor was one of the most mysterious Immortal Emperors even during their own generation. No one knew of the emperor’s origin, home, or even if the emperor was male or female! 3
After tens of millions of years, many people tried to solve this elusive mystery, but the most important one was whether the emperor was male or female!
Even the answer to the simplest question of the emperor’s sex remained unknown. It was as if Immortal Emperor Qian Li was shrouded in mist and was incapable of being seen by other worldly inhabitants. The emperor disappeared in the river of time along with all of their secrets.
Perhaps only the emperor knew the answers to all of these questions, and only the emperor knew their true sex!
No matter what, despite being shrouded in a myriad of mysteries, one thing was for certain, and this was that the emperor cultivated the demonic dao before finally becoming an Immortal Emperor. As for what kind of demon they were, the descendants could only guess.
The Soaring Remembrance Village, also known as the Soaring Remembrance Manor, was a quiet place. It was neither big nor small and had several hundred villagers. However, many great characters came from this village. Some had great fame and some were generals in the mortal world. Some were even cultivational immortals in the eyes of ordinary people. Even amongst these cultivators, some turned out to be amazing characters.
However, no matter how many great characters came from this village, it remained itself without changing as an eternally tranquil village. The appearance of these characters failed to break the peace of this small village.
Just like the Eternal River School, no matter who came and went, they could not affect the Soaring Remembrance Village. This was a good place for those who sought for peace and quiet, a place just like the Garden of the Peaches of Immortality. 4
It was as if there was an invisible force protecting this village, a force that didn’t allow anyone to disturb its peace.
This small village presided within the Thousand Carp River with its particularly ordinary appearance.
However, the old village head’s home had been very rowdy because a haunting phenomenon had been occurring inside his house. At the Sacred Nether World, the domain of the ghost race, it would be silly to make a fuss about ghosts.
In this world, not to mention cultivators, even ordinary mortals didn’t believe that there were ghosts in this world. If there were actually supernatural ghosts, and if they were just like the ghost race, then they were not that much different compared to humans, so mortals would never be afraid of such a thing.
However, strange things had been happening in backyard of the old village head. A ghastly shadow would drift back and forth regularly regardless of whether it was night or day. The ones who were more timid were easily scared out of their mind at such a sight.
It seemed that a young ghost was haunting the old village head’s backyard, but their group couldn’t describe its exact figure. In summary, it was a young shadow, but this shadow had no true substance. It flew like an ethereal existence in the backyard of the old village head.
This haunting ghost was quite a sight for the husband and wife pair. They had lived for very long so, to them, humans and ghosts were the same, but this actually made their house become more lively. At the very least, the villagers would visit their house to look at this ghost.
Nevertheless, the other villagers still tried to convince the couple to perform a passing rite for this ghost. Regarding such advice, the old village elder said with a smile: “This ghost is just wandering in our backyard and isn’t committing any bad deeds. One day, it will naturally become bored and leave.”
“Old Man Yang, this isn’t the case. Who truly understands these ghosts? Maybe one day, it will hurt someone, what are we going to do then?” A person in the village tried to persuade him with good intentions.
“Oh right, isn’t your little girl studying at the Thousand Carp River? Why not have her come back and take a look. With her skills, giving a little ghost a peaceful passing shouldn’t be difficult.” Another villager came up with an idea.
At last, the old village head couldn’t handle all the counsel from the villagers, so he could only go to the Great Wisdom Temple right outside of the village to invite the temple’s presiding abbot, Monk Dazhi. 5
According to the villagers, Monk Dazhi was a monk with boundless buddhist wisdom, but one would be gravely mistaken if they were to imagine him as a monk with long eyebrows and a white beard.
He was a very young monk — only around the age of twenty. His head was smooth and reflective and had two crooked rows of three ordainment markings. Seeing just how crooked they were left people wondering whether his markings were real or not.
Monk Dazhi’s eyes were very bright, and he always had a smile on his face. When standing before the public, this smile appeared to be kind and compassionate, but when no one was paying attention, the smile became a bit villainous. It would give others the impression that he was a thief!
Chapter 380 - The Village’s Secret
A series of large round buddhist beads hung around Monk Dazhi’s neck. If he didn’t look like an accomplished monk before, then just by wearing these beads, others would be convinced that he was one.
Buddhist lights flashed inside these beads as if there was a Buddha inside each of them, sitting in a solemn pose. Sometimes, loud chants could be heard.
Whether he was an accomplished monk or not, these buddhist beads alone commanded respect from others.
Monk Dazhi was the abbot of the Great Wisdom Temple, but the reality was that he was the only one that was part of this temple. The abbot was him, the monk was him, and the servant was him as well. 1
Although the temple was built right outside of the village, Monk Dazhi was not from this part of the world. Rumor has it that Monk Dazhi came from the northern Misty Field, undergoing a harsh pilgrimage all the way to the village. In the end, he said that this village had a fateful connection with him, so he immediately built the Great Wisdom Temple right outside and became its abbot and sole monk.
It was said that his dharma was unlimited. A villager once saw him subdue a white tiger that was turned into his mount.
After the village head invited Monk Dazhi to the backyard, he said: “Wise Monk, this is the spot. The shadow would sometimes appear here at random times; sometimes during the day and sometimes at night.”
After hearing the village head’s story, Monk Dazhi used his fingers to calculate. Then, he placed his palms together while giving the appearance of a high monk: “Amitabha, oh merciful Buddha. Benefactor, this monk has calculated something with regards to this ghost for you. It is a hungry ghost. This hungry ghost died from starvation. How about this, Benefactor should host a great feast so that this monk can lead it out to see if I can help it move on.”
Having heard this, the old village head did not prolong the conversation and went with his wife to prepare a feast. They immediately prepared it at the backyard.
“Amitabha, merciful Buddha!” After seeing this large feast laid out in front of him, he placed his palms together again and started to speak: “Benefactor, a hungry ghost is not easy to deal with. When I lead him out and perform my ceremony, I hope that there will not be another person present, lest the ghost attack. It is not good if someone else becomes wounded!” With this, he took out a ceremonial sword while chanting incantations as if he wanted to communicate with the ghost.
“Then I will leave everything to Wise Monk!” The old village head quickly left with his wife after listening to the monk.
After the couple left, Monk Dazhi put away his ceremonial sword and quickly rubbed his palms together. After seeing that no one else was around, he cheerfully laughed: “Amitabha, amitabha, the Buddhist path is merciful, meat and wine are poison, but this monk had always been aiming for the Buddhist path with only love in my heart. I will temporarily take all of the poison in the ghost’s stead!” With this, he rolled up his sleeves and grabbed a big fat duck to take a big bite.
Not too long after, the feast on the table was completely devoured by Monk Dazhi. His mouth was covered with grease so any resemblance of a high monk quickly disappeared.
However, the village head’s backyard becoming “haunted” was not due to a ghost, it was because of Li Qiye. He was in a heavenly grotto trying to refine the primordial chaos that wanted to break out from the inside. Because of this, others were able to see a floating image of a ghost as the primordial chaos was about to escape outside.
Li Qiye chose this place as his stopping point for a reason; there was a secret at this location. The Soaring Remembrance Village had an amazing heavenly grotto; it was an independent space — an absolute domain.
This place was related to a particular secret that had something to do with Immortal Emperor Fei Yang during the Desolate Era.
Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was one of the oldest Immortal Emperors of the human race. Coming from the Nantian Clan of the Grand Middle Territory, he achieved his dao during the Desolate Era. But despite this, he had never acknowledged that he was one of its disciples.
What was even more interesting was that after he left the clan, he never returned even after he became an Immortal Emperor.
The Nantian Clan’s attitude was also very strange. During the emperor’s generation and many long ones after it, they never announced that Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was one of the clan’s disciples to outsiders.
It was not until much later that they dared to tell others that the emperor was their disciple and their pride.
Nevertheless, the clan did not receive any inheritance from the emperor, and his lineage did not go back to the Nantian Clan.
The matter between the emperor and the Nantian Clan, along with some of the emperor’s later tales, became unknown riddles.
However, even though outsiders were ignorant, Li Qiye was not. He also knew some secrets about Immortal Emperor Fei Yang.
Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was just like his title — an unbridled and free individual. 2 During his youth, he did many controversial things that became hot topics of discussion in future generations, including stealing and swindling.
Rumor has it that the young Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s mouth could even spew out lotus flowers capable of changing black to white and amazing rhetorics. Even the stone buddha from the Buddhist Funeral Plateau was swindled by him, so one could easily imagine his articulate speech. 3
Moreover, his luck with women was also great. Before becoming an Immortal Emperor, countless women’s hearts swayed because of him; among them, there was no shortage of princesses, saintesses, fairies, and even those with great backgrounds, including descendants from Immortal Emperor lineages.
But despite having many women throughout his life, the strange part was that he did not marry anyone throughout his life even after becoming an Immortal Emperor.
Since time immemorial, there were not that many emperors who didn’t have descendants, and Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was one of them. He was the type who had a lot of women but did not marry.
A person who loves too much would end up being loveless. This issue was the source of a lot of turmoil and gossip for future generations. 4
Soon after becoming an emperor, a certain matter occurred unbeknownst to the rest of the world. Among his women, there were many with supreme intelligence, and one of them used an unimaginable method to steal the seed of Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. After bearing his child, this woman did not ask for an official title from the emperor and instead disappeared from this world. From that point forth, no one saw her again.
This peerlessly intelligent woman was very much in love with Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. She bore his child not to become the empress nor his wife. She quickly left the emperor and went into hiding in order to raise his child to continue his bloodline.
This woman disappeared for many years in this world. No one knew that she was living in seclusion in the mortal world and had turned into an ordinary mortal.
Eventually, this woman passed away. Her offspring with Immortal Emperor Fei Yang also did not become a cultivator, but rather thrived as a mortal.
The village built by her was named the Soaring Remembrance Village. Its name signified her memories and longing for Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. However, this old tale did not just end here. Very few things in this world could escape the gaze of an Immortal Emperor, and this also applied to Immortal Emperor Fei Yang.
He knew about this matter and also knew where this woman was living, but he chose to do nothing.
It was not until much later, after the lady had passed away and his descendants — as mortals — had prospered at the village for generations that he acted. It could have been because this woman’s persistent love for him moved him, it could also be that the descendants carried his bloodline… Regardless of the reason, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang laid out a supreme spell at the village.
An Immortal Emperor exerted countless efforts to perform a spell at this location and left behind many things. This supreme spell remained active for millions of years at this location and had always been quietly protecting this village.
Because of this, the village had produced many geniuses. Many great characters came to visit the village as well.
However, despite all of this, they were all just fleeting passengers to the village. No matter who came and went, nothing could break the tranquility of the village under the spell’s protection; nothing could stop the village from being a paradise in this world.
Tens of millions of years went by again. Generation after generation in the village, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s descendants had multiplied, but the village remained peaceful and unknown.
This whole thing was odd because, despite the supreme spell and the presence of many treasures, the emperor did not pass on any cultivation methods to his descendants.
Later on, the village did produce some cultivators, and some great ones at that. However, they did not come from Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s dao lineage. Instead, they were recruited by other great powers from the outside world, and they had no relationship with the emperor.
An eternity had passed, perhaps no one else knew the secret of the Soaring Remembrance Village. Even those who knew of this secret during the emperor’s generation were no longer of this world.
However, Li Qiye was one of those who knew this secret, and he was also someone who had survived to the present era!
A series of large round buddhist beads hung around Monk Dazhi’s neck. If he didn’t look like an accomplished monk before, then just by wearing these beads, others would be convinced that he was one.
Buddhist lights flashed inside these beads as if there was a Buddha inside each of them, sitting in a solemn pose. Sometimes, loud chants could be heard.
Whether he was an accomplished monk or not, these buddhist beads alone commanded respect from others.
Monk Dazhi was the abbot of the Great Wisdom Temple, but the reality was that he was the only one that was part of this temple. The abbot was him, the monk was him, and the servant was him as well.
Chapter 381 - Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s Inheritance
The place that Li Qiye occupied was a self-contained space, and it was tightly linked together with the Soaring Remembrance Village. If the village was one side of a coin, then this space that contained Li Qiye was the other; the two of them were one and the same.
Li Qiye visited this place for a very specific reason; it was created by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang, and the emperor had left a lot of things behind.
That year, that woman gave birth to Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s offspring in a secluded part of the mortal world, then the village was created from this. From then on, his future descendants lived on in prosperity, but they didn’t know that their ancestor was the famed Immortal Emperor Fei Yang of the Desolate Era.
A powerful spell was created by the emperor to protect his descendants, and it encompassed the entire village. However, the origin of this spell was on the other face of the village, the spatial realm.
Because of this, many people came to the village throughout many eras, but they couldn’t understand the true profoundness of the village.
This spatial realm was a chaotic place that was unable to be clearly discerned by anyone. There were ancient temples, jade pavilions, and jeweled palaces amidst the chaos as if this location was hiding countless secrets.
Li Qiye sat upright at this location with the Fragmented Spatial Disk in front of him while the Yin Yang Refining Immortal Mirror poured down an endless amount of immortal radiance as the Yin Yang fishes protected him.
At this time, the disk in front of Li Qiye became an illuminating mirror, but the reflection was not Li Qiye. Instead, it showed many strange runes. Under the control of Li Qiye’s will, these runes intertwined together to form universal laws; he wanted to create a sacred chapter.
This was the reason for Li Qiye’s visit to this place. This was an ancient technique from the Legendary Era that was obtained by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang before his ascension.
This technique was named Resplendent Break, the emperor’s technique that paved the way towards his imperial domination. It was an amazing secret technique!
Immortal Emperor Fei Yang traveled to the corners of the world without a fixed abode. Although he became an emperor, no one had heard of a lineage left behind by him. Even though his tales were memorized by members of the future generations, there were many things that were related to him that were unknown to the rest of the world.
For example, why didn’t the emperor want to return to the Nantian Clan? Why didn’t the emperor pass down his imperial lineage? And where were his emperor weapons?
As the Dark Crow, Li Qiye had researched for a very long time regarding the emperor’s deeds. In the end, he was certain that the emperor left many things behind at the spatial realm of the Soaring Remembrance Village.
Inside this space was a grand creation that was left behind by an Immortal Emperor that used his invincible means. Outsiders essentially could not come in; otherwise, others would have already exposed this secret.
After Li Qiye entered, even the Realm God’s pine branch was thrown outside. If Li Qiye didn’t have the Fragmented Spatial Disk, then he wouldn’t have been able to enter either.
This disk had a lot to do with the emperor. The world believed that this treasure was refined by the emperor using the Space Scripture’s mantra.
However, Li Qiye knew for a fact that this disk was not created by the emperor, but it definitely had something to do with the Space Scripture.
As one of the strongest Immortal Emperors, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang left behind many of his secrets behind a frightening barrier.
In order to get here, Li Qiye used an amazing scheme. As he was entering the Sacred Nether World from the Mortal Emperor World, just before he reached the Sacred Nether World, he jumped directly into the chaotic space that the emperor created. Of course, this was with the help of the Fragmented Spatial Disk. Otherwise, he would not have even been able to make it from the worldly pathway.
Despite the numerous secrets and treasures, Li Qiye only wanted one secret technique instead of being too greedy.
Under the absolute suppression of an emperor, Li Qiye still had methods to take the other treasures from this chaotic space. However, he chose not to do so and only wanted the Resplendent Break that was left behind at this place.
Li Qiye’s location inside this chaotic space was coincidentally the village head’s backyard. At this time, Li Qiye could only use the mirror and the disk to stay at this place since he could not harmonize with it. Because of this, his image would sometimes faintly appear in the backyard.
This was the famed ghost that haunted at the village head’s place. Inside this chaotic space, Li Qiye and the backyard was only separated by a thin wall, so he could clearly see what was happening in the village head’s backyard.
He noticed Monk Dazhi using the excuse of exorcising the ghost to eat, and he couldn’t help but become amused.
Nonetheless, Li Qiye was too lazy to care about this trickster of a monk eating and drinking. He looked at the mirror-like disk and repeatedly calculated the runes inside in order to turn it into a law that would eventually become a complete immortal chapter.
In reality, a long time ago, Li Qiye already had the Resplendent Break. But at that time, it was only an incomplete version with many defects. In spite of this, he still chose to spend a long time to research this particular move.
Today, within this chaotic space, Li Qiye used the mirror to find the runes that were left behind by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. Although the emperor purposely mystified the order of the runes, Li Qiye could still manipulate their countless transformations into the complete Resplendent Break. Of course, it was not an easy task to come up with a perfected version of an ancient and mystical technique like this without taking a long time.
While Li Qiye was preoccupied in the chaotic space, Monk Dazhi was putting on a show and created quite a commotion. Sometimes, there were ghastly yells and howls that eventually culminated into the sounds of a battle…
This scene actually caused those who were outside to think that something was happening. The husband and wife truly thought that the monk was fighting against a ferocious ghost.
It was not until the next day did the village head enter his own backyard. He no longer saw any more shadows since Li Qiye was coincidentally being blocked by the chaos right at this time. This caused the backyard to seem fine as it was without the intrusion of any ghosts. Once the old man saw the remaining scraps of the feasts, he couldn’t help but suck on his teeth in surprise. Was it really a hungry ghost messing around?
“Amitabha, oh merciful Buddha!” After seeing the old village head, Monk Dazhi — once again — became a dignified monk. Who could possibly connect his current appearance to that of him eating like a storm from earlier? If anything, he was the real hungry ghost!
The monk placed his hands together once more and spoke in an upright manner: “Do not worry, Benefactor. The hungry ghost was finally driven away by me. It won’t come back again!”
“Thank the heavens, Sir Monk is truly great. I didn’t expect you to chase the hungry ghost away so easily!” The village head happily exclaimed.
Inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when he witnessed this scene. He watched Monk Dazhi pretending to be a wise sage and chuckled with the intention of destroying the monk’s play. At this time, he reached forward with his hand. In the blink of an eye, a gigantic hand came out from the chaotic space as a powerful breeze blew by.
At this time, a dust storm swept through the backyard as a ghastly gigantic hand faintly appeared as if it wanted to capture humans.
“The hungry ghost is here again!” Seeing this scene, the old village head was completely startled.
“Sinful creature, you dare!?” Monk Dazhi shouted as the buddhist beads around his neck flew forward. In an instant, these beads enlarged to the size of mountains, blocking the sky in order to stop Li Qiye’s hand.
Inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye was taken by surprise at the sight of the mountainous buddhist beads. This treasure was indeed unfathomable, but Li Qiye simply wanted to tease him a bit and didn’t actually unleash a move. He smiled and quickly withdrew his hand.
After Li Qiye canceled his maneuver, the backyard became peaceful again. The village head frightenedly exclaimed with some amazement: “Sir Monk is so formidable, you can scare the hungry ghost away so fast!”
Monk Dazhi placed his palms together again without any sign of arrogance. There was only the countenance of an accomplished sage as he said: “Amitabha, oh merciful Buddha. This hungry ghost is indeed fierce. I shall stay behind for several days to fight against this evil spirit. This time, it successfully escaped and I believe it won’t come back anytime soon. Could Benefactor prepare another feast so that I can lead it here again?”
The village head did not question this request at all and immediately went to prepare another feast. As for Li Qiye, he was dumbfounded and couldn’t help but shake his head.
Not too many things in this world could escape Li Qiye’s sight. In his opinion, although Monk Dazhi appeared to be a swindler, he actually had real abilities. And yet, he still chose to run around in the mortal world to play pretend as a trickster for food!
Several days passed, and the monk continued to stay behind in the backyard of the village head. The rowdy sounds of battle continued on, causing the couple to be frightened out of their minds since they really thought that the monk was fighting against the hungry ghost inside.
How could the ones outside possibly know that Monk Dazhi was only hiding there, spending all of his energy stuffing his greasy face? Where was the respectable appearance of a high monk? This was only a monk that was completely enamored with meat and wine!
The place that Li Qiye occupied was a self-contained space, and it was tightly linked together to the Soaring Remembrance Village. If the village was one side of a coin, then this space that contained Li Qiye was the other side; the two of them were one and the same.
Li Qiye visited this place for a very specific reason; it was created by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang, and the emperor had left a lot of things behind.
That year, that woman gave birth to Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s offspring in a secluded part of the mortal world, then the village was created from this. From then on, his future descendants lived on in prosperity, but they didn’t know that their ancestor was the famed Immortal Emperor Fei Yang of the Desolate Era.
Chapter 382 - Ghost-expelling Monk
The battle sounds were created by Monk Dazhi’s illusion spell so that those who were outside would think that he was fighting against the hungry ghost!
For the next few days, Monk Dazhi stayed in the backyard only to eat and drink. Meanwhile, inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye was about to finish deriving the Resplendent Break. Eventually, he managed to obtain the full version of the attack. He then couldn’t help but take another look at this chaotic space as he murmured: “The suppression of an Immortal Emperor True Treasure is indeed amazing!”
He didn’t continue to stay in this space and used the Fragmented Spatial Disk to open an entrance to instantly go outside to the backyard.
At this time, many luminous stars were hanging amidst the skylight above the quiet, small village. The gentle breeze from the mountains caused the villagers to take deep breaths on their strolls.
In the meantime, Monk Dazhi seemed unable to ever be satiated. Even after all the meals, it was as if he was the reincarnation of a hungry ghost.
“Are you here to chase away a ghost, or are you here to eat and drink?” Li Qiye slowly said while standing right behind Monk Dazhi.
Right now, they were in the middle of the night. If someone suddenly appeared behind one’s back, they would have been scared to death. However, that would only be the case if it was someone else; Monk Dazhi was not startled at all. His two hands held onto a fat pig’s leg as he crazily devoured it with his greasy mouth. He saw Li Qiye and cheerfully smiled: “Fellow Daoist, sit down and have a taste. Old Lin is really skillful.”
“So you are just a thief.” Li Qiye smiled and sat down as he gazed at the monk before continuing: “You came here to chase away a ghost, but are you not afraid that a hungry ghost will possess you while you are acting like this?”
These words only induced a smile on the monk’s face as he cheerfully replied: “These words might scare people somewhere else, but this is the Sacred Nether World. There are more ghosts running around on the surface than there are in hell. Even if there were ghosts here, it wouldn’t scare anyone.”
Li Qiye smiled as the monk told him to sit down and eat. However, despite his courteous proposal, he didn’t wait for Li Qiye as he instantly consumed a roasted chicken and a big fish just like a hungry ghost.
Compared to Monk Dazhi’s table manners, Li Qiye was countless times more refined since he was only trying out a few things.
“Hehe, which treasures did Fellow Daoist manage to grab in there?” The monk asked with a grin while eating.
Li Qiye gave him a look and asked: “Oh? Are you also here because of the Soaring Remembrance Village?”
Monk Dazhi put his palms together and laughed: “Amitabha, this village contains treasures — this is not a big secret at all. Many people in the past came here, but no one could pinpoint the treasures. There is a great spell here so all the people who arrive do not dare to act presumptuously. Even Virtuous Paragons would die a pitiful death here!”
Li Qiye only chuckled and didn’t say anything else. It was just as the monk said, the protection of the village was crafted by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s supreme grand dao, so even a Virtuous Paragon would suffer a miserable end if they messed around here.
“This monk travels around the four oceans. My current trip took me to the Soaring Remembrance Village. I noticed that there was a great creation here, but unfortunately, I could not see through this place.” Monk Dazhi cheerfully explained.
Li Qiye smiled and shook his head with an answer: “It is all meaningless even if you could see through it. This place is reserved for the fateful ones; those who weren’t meant for it will never be able to obtain the great creations in this place. If one wished to seize them by force, then that would be the beginning of their demise!”
“Amitabha, amitabha.” Although he was reciting buddhist chants, the food never stopped going into his mouth.
On the second day’s sunrise, the village head quickly came to the backyard and was surprised to see another person.
“Amitabha, merciful Buddha!” Monk Dazhi chanted, then he explained to the village head: “Don’t be alarmed, Benefactor. This person is a friend I’ve invited. Luckily, with his great skills and our combined efforts, we were finally able to slay the hungry ghost last night. Benefactor can finally be at ease, there will be no more ghastly things intruding your residence now that the hungry ghost is gone.”
After hearing the explanation, the village head took a sigh of relief and quickly praised: “Sir Immortals have amazing magics. To be able to vanquish the hungry ghost… Amazing, simply amazing!”
Seeing the monk acting again, Li Qiye was at a loss, but he didn’t expose the monk’s trickery. Despite him running here for free meals, he was without malicious intentions. With his abilities, he didn’t need to swindle in order to eat in front of mortals like this.
Even though the hungry ghost had been eradicated, the village head and his wife still tried to keep the monk and Li Qiye around. The monk agreed to stay at the village for several days, and Li Qiye also stayed behind since he wished to check out the village a bit longer.
Many villagers visited them after hearing about how Monk Dazhi eradicated the hungry ghost. In a short period of time, Li Qiye and the monk were like monkeys at the circus; they were constantly being pointed at by all the enthusiastic and curious villagers.
A powerful cultivator disguised as a swindler — this left Li Qiye with an unexplainable feeling while Monk Dazhi very much enjoyed this situation. His interactions with the villagers were very natural and free, just like a real revered monk, to the unsuspecting crowd.
Li Qiye and Monk Dazhi stayed behind at the village head’s house while the couple treated them with unparalleled hospitality.
They were especially enthusiastic about Li Qiye. Sometimes, they would even ask him: “Where is your immortal grotto located? Do you have your marriage planned out yet?”
Li Qiye felt a bit strange in the face of these questions while Monk Dazhi, who was standing to the side, cheerfully replied: “Since Benefactors are asking so many questions, could it be that you want to betroth your daughter to my fellow daoist friend?”
The village head smiled and then shook his head: “We aren’t in charge of that little girl’s matters. However, if Immortal is interested, you two can get to know each other first.”
Monk Dazhi laughed and said: “Amitabha, Benefactor’s idea is actually not bad. Your daughter is as pretty as a fairy, my friend will definitely like her after they meet.”
Li Qiye didn’t know whether to laugh or cry after hearing the monk speak. He only shook his head and politely smiled without saying anything. He then left the house and took a stroll outside.
Right after Monk Dazhi courteously said goodbye to the village head with a smile, he then chased after Li Qiye and spoke: “You don’t know how many people want to marry the village head’s daughter.”
“If you keep sticking your tongue out, do you think I won’t pull it out?” Li Qiye looked at him with one eye and lightly said.
Monk Dazhi immediately shut up and chanted: “Amitabha, how sinful. I just won’t speak then!”
The Soaring Remembrance Village was neither overly large nor small. It had many great characters coming and going, including cultivators, but none of them managed to leave their personal marks on this village.
The unwitting would find this quite strange, but those who were keener and knew the secrets would not find it strange at all. Who could actually withstand the protecting will of an Immortal Emperor? The paradisiacal village had small bridges and flowing water, natural mountains and verdant forests; the entire village was immersed in tranquility.
Li Qiye and Monk Dazhi did a circle around the village. In fact, it was not Li Qiye’s first time here since he had visited a long time ago as the Dark Crow.
After so many long years and countless generations, despite people coming and going, the beautiful scenery remained due to the protection of the emperor!
“Truly a wonderful spell!” Walking inside the village, Monk Dazhi was also looking at the situation of this place and couldn’t help but praise with admiration: “What kind of heaven-defying being would be able to break the tranquility of this place?”
Li Qiye simply smiled without adding to the conversation. Of course an Immortal Emperor’s means were marvelous. He had once gone against the heavens and calculated a taboo matter. Perhaps, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was buried in this ordinary village.
Of course, this was only a possibility and its authenticity was hard to prove. Throughout the ages, many Immortal Emperors left behind lineages and continued their bloodlines, but no one heard of an Immortal Emperor burying themselves in this world! 1
So whether Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was buried at the village or not was a mystery. Unless someone was able to release the emperor’s powerful seal, none would be able to find the answer.
In fact, the path of all the previous Immortal Emperors had been a riddle. Many believed that even Immortal Emperors were not true immortals and that they could not stay in this world forever. One day, they would have to meet their impending doom.
Despite this belief, the burials of Immortal Emperors were mysteries as well.
There had been Immortal Emperor lineages who swore to the world that their progenitors were buried in their ancestral lands, but even now, not everyone believed this.
The battle sounds were created by Monk Dazhi’s illusion spell so that those who were outside would think that he was fighting against the hungry ghost!
For the next few days, Monk Dazhi stayed in the backyard only to eat and drink. Meanwhile, inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye was about to finish deriving the Resplendent Break. Eventually, he managed to obtain the full version of the attack. He then couldn’t help but take another look at this chaotic space as he murmured: “The suppression of an Immortal Emperor True Treasure is indeed amazing!”
He didn’t continue to stay in this space and used the Fragmented Spatial Disk to open an entrance to instantly go outside to the backyard.
Chapter 383 - Dream Wishing Tree
Li Qiye and the monk inadvertently walked to the entrance of the village during their stroll. There was an old tree that was basked in countless streaks of moonlight. It required several people to hug the tree completely as its branches emanated outward like one big umbrella.
Because this tree had existed for so many years, a lot of moss was growing on its trunk.
Although it appeared to be very ordinary, even Li Qiye couldn’t help but to emotionally sigh as he looked at it: “Dream Wishing Tree, a rare sight in this world ah!”
“Only an Immortal Emperor would be able to do such a thing!” Monk Dazhi also muttered: “Such a small village having a great divine tree protector at its entrance — how grand is this sight!? With this Dream Wishing Tree protecting it, even Virtuous Paragons have to behave well when they come here!”
Li Qiye had nothing to say as he stared at this divine tree. Even though it was only an ordinary village in the mortal world, it had the secret backing of an Immortal Emperor. Not to mention, it was something never used before. Wasting the resources of an Immortal Emperor on a regular village might have never been done before in this world!
While the two of them were standing underneath the tree, the village head came by and saw them. He quickly greeted them, then stood in front of the tree and put his palms together as if he was praying.
After he whispered a prayer, he then prostrated before the tree.
“Legends state that a Dream Wishing Tree could grant the wishes of other people, could it be that Benefactor is also wishing on a dream before the tree?” Monk Dazhi said with a smile after the village head stood up.
The village head shook his head and replied: “No, I am praying for my little girl. Back then, she stood here and made a vow, so I come here every day to pray for her!”
“Your little girl made a vow?” Monk Dazhi exclaimed in astonishment: “This can’t be… Your girl is quite surprising!”
The village head wryly smiled and said: “This is all because us old people have been pressuring her nonstop. She is not young anymore, so my wife and I had been hoping that she could find a suitable husband to pass down our lineage. However, this girl would not listen. After all of us constantly tried to convince her, she undertook a vow beneath the Dream Wishing Tree; that is, if the tree picked a suitable husband for her, then she would marry right away. But if not, then she would remain single!”
Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile after hearing this. The Dream Wishing Tree was indeed rumored to have wish-granting abilities, but this Dream Wishing Tree in front of them had formed its own consciousness and was not just a regular Dreaming Wishing Tree! It seems that the little girl had been pressured too much by her parents, so she had to make a vow in front of the tree!
“Crash!” An item from the Dream Wishing Tree fell down and suddenly hit Li Qiye in the head. He then conveniently took it down from his head.
With a glance, he found that it was a piece of jade. This jade ornament was very warm and had the word “Zhu” carved on it. It was easy to tell that it belonged to a girl. 1
“This is my little girl’s jade ornament!” As Li Qiye was still wondering about it, the village head happily shouted and told him: “This is the jade ornament left behind by my little girl. After she made her vow, it was taken by the divine tree. And today, today… it appears once more!” He was very excited at this point.
“Haha, the divine tree has answered and finally found the perfect groom for my little girl!” The village head tightly grabbed Li Qiye’s hands and exclaimed: “Haha, I will go and tell all of my old friends!” With that, he turned around and ran back to the village.
“Old friends, old friends, it is a day to rejoice!” The old man screamed while he ran back to the village.
Looking at the jade piece in his hand, Li Qiye felt a bit dumbfounded. He looked at the Dream Wishing Tree and suddenly had the urge to uproot it! Earlier when the village head was talking about his daughter, the tree suddenly hit his head with this jade piece. He believed that the tree must have done this on purpose because it had its own awareness!
“Hehe, congratulations, congratulations, you are about to become a groom!” Seeing Li Qiye standing there in a daze with the jade piece in his hand, Monk Dazhi happily laughed.
Li Qiye glared at him and said: “Congratulations my ass, who said that I wanted to be a groom!?”
“Heh, I’m afraid it is no longer up to you to decide. Even though Old Benefactor Yang is only a mere mortal, his daughter is quite a character. Moreover, a lot of amazing people came from this village. Hah, now that you are carrying her jade piece, if you don’t want to be a groom, then I’m afraid you will have to die.” Monk Dazhi happily laughed and said.
Having said this, the monk turned around, wanting to leave. Li Qiye noticed this and curiously asked him: “Why do you want to run? You aren’t the one who will be the new groom here!”
“Heh, you don’t know this, but Old Man Yang’s little girl is a great character. If she finds out that she suddenly has a fiance, maybe she will go crazy and flip the sky upside down. Hah, the even more pertinent thing is that if she finds out that I was also here, then I wouldn’t be able to wash my crime clean even if I jumped into the Yellow River! It is better for me to leave first!” Having said this, the monk quickly fled.
Li Qiye became speechless again. He wasn’t clear on just how great the village head’s daughter was, but seeing the fleeing monk, he could imagine that this girl was indeed extraordinary.
However, Li Qiye had never been afraid of anyone in his entire life. This matter was indeed very strange; he suddenly became someone else’s fiance and he couldn’t explain this even if he tried.
Around this time, he noticed the village head and his wife coming from afar along with a group of villagers. There were both the young and the old in this crowd, and it was clear that they were ecstatic.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but become afraid after seeing such a battalion. When would I run if not now? Having thought to this point, he quickly turned around to run.
When the group of villagers came to the Dream Wishing Tree and didn’t see anyone, the village head’s wife became angry and complained: “Look, this is all because of your old self. You’re so excited that it scared away our new groom.”
“No, definitely not!” The village head jumped up and said: “Quick, quickly send news to the girl and tell her to quickly come back, her fiance has run away!”
Li Qiye escaped from the village and saw a little temple that was built right outside. At this time, Monk Dazhi came out from the temple while carrying a big bag of stuff.
“The little girl of Old Man Yang is about to return home. Take care of yourself, I’m gonna run now. Heh, you better deal with it well because if you want to escape this marriage, maybe an army will chase after you at that time.” The old monk swiftly fled all the way to the horizon. Although he was reminding Li Qiye, his words carried a gloating tone.
Li Qiye could only helplessly shake his head. Although he ran away from the village, compared to the monk running for his life, he had an unhurried appearance.
After Li Qiye calculated the right direction, he also shifted his body and quickly disappeared from sight.
This time, Li Qiye came to the Sacred Nether World with a goal, so he jumped to the south and took out the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key and murmured: “I want to unravel a few mysteries in this generation!”
He was searching for a particular thing, so he kept on going south towards a familiar location. Nevertheless, he was still inside the Thousand Carp River’s territory.
Speaking of this name, it was a sect as well as the name of a river. In the Sacred Nether World, cultivators would certainly first think of the demonic gate that was passed down by Immortal Emperor Qian Li! In fact, the Thousand Carp River was a huge body of water not just in the Distant Cloud region, but the entire Sacred Nether World. It spanned for millions of miles like a coiling dragon around the region before streaming off straight into the ocean.
The Thousand Carp River’s territory encompassed the millions of miles on the two banks of this river. There were many sects and countries that were tributaries to an Immortal Emperor lineage like the Thousand Carp River!
The monstrous river, perhaps the biggest river of the Sacred Nether World, originated from an extremely high mountain. Some people tried to trace it all the way back to the Prime Ominous Grave.
And so, there was a theory in the Sacred Nether World: the Thousand Carp River starts from the Prime Ominous Grave and ends at the Thousand Islands! Because of its relationship with the Prime Ominous Grave, this huge river was filled with colorful legends and tales!
For millions of years, the river had always been shrouded in a fog of mystery as if there were many secrets in this river that wished to remain hidden from outsiders.
Many had tried to find out the river’s secrets, but very few were successful. Even so, people believed that if there was someone who was privy to the secrets, then it had to be Immortal Emperor Qian Li.
This phrase was not an arrow shot without aim since the mysterious Immortal Emperor Qian Li was rumored to also come from this river!
Li Qiye went south along the river. He was not in a hurry to reach his goal, so he took his time and indulged in his memories as he trod on this land.
Li Qiye had come to the Sacred Nether World many times in the last few hundreds of millions of years. He had also come to this river several times, especially during the generation of Immortal Emperor Qian Li. Li Qiye’s footprints were left all over the banks of the Thousand Carp River!
Li Qiye and the monk inadvertently walked to the entrance of the village during their stroll. There was an old tree that had been basked in countless streaks of moonlight. It required several people to hug the tree completely as its branches emanated outward like one big umbrella.
Because this tree had existed for so many years, a lot of moss was growing on its trunk.
Although it appeared to look very ordinary, even Li Qiye couldn’t help but to emotionally sigh as he looked at it: “Dream Wishing Tree, a rare sight in this world ah!”
Chapter 384 - Lu Baiqiu
For many eras, if a group of people claimed to know the secret of the Thousand Carp River, then Li Qiye would definitely be a part of this assembly. Moreover, within the current generation, Li Qiye might be the person who understood this river the best.
He would sometimes see ancient cities and declined clans along the river while he headed south, and he could only respond with a sigh. He saw the ruins of the magnificent and prosperous sceneries of the past. He gazed into the misty river for a long time in silence. O how many heroes, glories, and beauties passed away… None were able to withstand the test of time!
However, as the mulberry fields turned into blue seas, this surging river still remained the same as if nothing in this world could affect its torrential flow. It was like a dragon entrenched in this land.
Li Qiye’s southward journey had almost reached the estuary of the Thousand Carp River as he entered the territory of the Static Stream Country. Li Qiye became emotional after recalling such a familiar name as he gently bemoaned: “Static Stream Estuary — it is still the same after so many years!”
The Static Stream Country at the Distant Cloud region was an average-sized nation and its power could only be considered second-rate.
Moreover, it was a tribute to the Thousand Carp River for the millions of years till now. There was a reason for this; the progenitor of this country was a general under Immortal Emperor Qian Li. Legends state that after becoming the emperor and ruling over the Nine Worlds, he erected the sect next to the Thousand Carp River.
And as his general, the Static Stream Progenitor had always followed after the emperor. Eventually, the emperor bestowed the southern region of the river to the general so that he could form his own country!
This was why the Static Stream Country had always been attached to the Thousand Carp River. The truth was that the country used to be very powerful in the past; it was classified as a first-rate power. Unfortunately, after so many years, the country had fallen and lost its previous prestige. Despite this, because of its attachment to the Thousand Carp River, no other lineages dared to seize its territory in spite of its contemporary weakness.
As long as the Thousand Carp River remained standing, a lineage like the Static Stream Country could live in peace even if it was not as strong as before. 1
Stepping into the Static Stream Country and seeing that his destination was close, Li Qiye remained unhurried on his journey down south along the grand river.
As he leisurely strolled downstream, a thunderous rumble suddenly came from above. Li Qiye looked up and saw a flying ship in the sky that was also heading south!
Li Qiye did not find this matter strange at all and paid it no mind while the giant ship kept on flying south. However, not much time passed before it suddenly turned around and hovered above Li Qiye, only to slowly land beside him.
“Where are you going?” A girl who stood on the ship’s deck asked Li Qiye.
Suddenly being approached by a girl slightly took Li Qiye by surprise. Of course, he wasn’t narcissistic enough to think that he was handsome to the point where it caused girls to hit on him.
“Me?” Li Qiye pointed at himself and then said: “I’m going to the Thousand Islands!”
“Come up.” The girl said: “We are also going to the Thousand Islands, so we can give you a ride.”
Li Qiye was quite amused about his first time hitching a ride. He laughed and jumped on this gigantic ship. After he boarded, the ship made a loud bang and flew towards the south.
The moment he boarded, he found that there were more than ten cultivators already sitting on the deck. Some were young and some were old. All of them wore the same colored clothing. It was easy to tell that they were all from the same sect.
The cultivators onboard nodded their heads at him as a friendly greeting.
The girl who called for him to board said: “Just sit anywhere. The Thousand Islands is already very close so we’ll be there in a flash.”
Li Qiye sat down and couldn’t help but to take another look at this girl. She was around the age of twenty, the spring of her youth — beautiful and alluring.
Li Qiye had seen so many beauties that it was too many to count, but this girl ahead of him was still enough to brighten people’s eyes.
Her short hair was down to her shoulders — this was quite an eye-catching sight. It gave her the appearance of a straightforward and decisive woman.
Although her beauty was not overly supreme, her bright eyes and full lips gave others the impression of purity. The armor she wore also accentuated her air of valor.
Despite being young, she carried the aura of a big sister. It was apparent that she was the leader of this group.
“My name is Li Qiye, how should I address you, Miss?” After looking at her, Li Qiye introduced himself with a smile.
“Lu Baiqiu.” The girl was also very straightforward and said: “Region Lord of the Static Stream Country’s Thousand Islands!”
Li Qiye had not seen this type of girl in a long time and couldn’t help but smile: “I am truly grateful to Miss for giving me a ride.”
“Heh, our Region Lord fancies you, Little Fella, and wants to take you as her husband!” A middle-aged man on the ship joked.
The other disciples on the ship, both young and old, couldn’t help but explode in laughter after hearing this.
“Dazhu, you feeling itchy?” Lu Baiqiu rubbed her fists and gazed at this man with her pretty eyes as if she intended to beat him up.
“Oh, Region Lord, I was just joking, just joking!” Seeing those fists, the man thought about how his Region Lord would ruthlessly beat people up and quickly forced a smile.
The other disciples were all just loudly laughing with gloating expressions. Despite their difference in age, they were very close to each other.
Lu Baiqiu ignored the other disciples and spoke to Li Qiye: “At the Sacred Nether World, we humans should unite and help each other.”
Li Qiye smiled and thought that her ideal was not bad. Alas, reality was cruel. No matter which world it was and no matter what race one was from, killing would always exist.
“What are you going to the Thousand Islands for?” Lu Baiqiu was the Region Lord of the islands. The area was under her jurisdiction so her curiosity was piqued.
“To pick up some medicinal herbs.” Li Qiye answered with a smile: “I heard that the Ghost Locust Tree grows at the Thousand Islands. Recently, I have been crafting a new medicinal paste so I need the resin from these trees. This is the reason for my trip.”
“Ghost Locust Tree?” Lu Baiqiu immediately replied: “There really are a lot of Ghost Locust Trees at the Thousand Islands. It is an indigenous tree at our islands.”
Although many lineages did not allow outsiders to harvest the resources of their territories, Lu Baiqiu didn’t mind after hearing Li Qiye’s goal of taking some tree resin.
At the Thousand Islands, the estuary of the great river, the torrential current started to flow into the ocean.
Gazing ahead, one could see a misty scene with surging ocean water while little islands emerged one after another. Some were big, some were small; the large ones were the size of a continent while the small ones were only akin to a small hill. Above them were bustling cities with tens of thousands of mortals!
Although this place was called the Thousand Islands, someone had calculated that there were only ninety-nine islands here. There was also speculation where there used to be one hundred islands, but one of them sunk into the sea.
This was the limit of the Thousand Carp River’s jurisdiction; if one went any further beyond this place, they would find the endless southern sea. The Thousand Islands was also the southernmost territory of the Static Stream Country. The Azure City was on the largest island, thus the island was also named as such.
The Azure City’s isle spanned for one thousand miles and had more than one hundred thousand inhabitants!
The main establishment of the Static Stream Country presided on this island, and Lu Baiqiu, being the Thousand Islands’ Region Lord, meant that she was the person with the most authority! Being a Region Lord at such a young age meant that her own abilities were not shabby.
Once the ship flew above the islands, Li Qiye told her: “I’ll get off the ship here.”
Lu Baiqiu ordered for the ship to halt. After Li Qiye got off, she told him: “If there is any trouble, you can come find us! We will help you to the best of our abilities!”
“Young Man, try a bit harder!” An older cultivator on the ship winked at Li Qiye and said with a smile: “Our Region Lord has been single for a very long time now. Maybe you have a chance, we are very optimistic about you!”
These misleading words only left Li Qiye silent while Lu Baiqiu glared at the laughing disciples.
As the giant ship flew into the Azure City, Li Qiye took a look around. He went to a high peak that overlooked the Thousand Islands in the far distance.
“The Static Stream protects the Thousand Islands… What a shame, he didn’t build the capital at this place.” Li Qiye lamented as he looked at the scenery ahead.
During the era of Immortal Emperor Qian Li, the Static Stream Progenitor established his country after listening to Li Qiye’s advice. Unfortunately, he only founded the country and didn’t build its capital right on this spot!
For many eras, if a group of people claimed to know the secret of the Thousand Carp River, then Li Qiye definitely would be a part of this assembly. Moreover, within the current generation, Li Qiye might be the person who understood this river the best.
He would sometimes see ancient cities and declined clans along the river while he headed south, so he could only respond with a sigh. He saw the ruins of the magnificent and prosperous sceneries of the past. He gazed into the misty river for a long time in silence. How many heroes, glories, beauties passed away… They all could not withstand the test of time!
However, as the mulberry fields turned into blue seas, this surging river still remained the same as if nothing in the world could affect its torrential flow. It was like a dragon entrenched in this land.
Li Qiye’s southward journey had almost reached the estuary of the Thousand Carp River as he entered the territory of the Static Stream Country. Li Qiye became emotional after recalling such a familiar name as he gently bemoaned: “Static Stream Estuary — it is still the same after so many years!”
Chapter 385 - Collecting Tree Resin
Thousand Islands’ location was not strategically important to the Static Stream Country nor the Thousand Carp River. This was the estuary that connected the vast ocean with the great river.
Although there were sea demons that inhabited the ocean, neither the sea tribes nor the sea demons were a threat to the country, the Thousand Carp River, or the Distant Cloud Region.
In the past, Li Qiye had recommended for the Static Stream Progenitor to establish the capital at the Thousand Islands, but unfortunately, he abandoned this idea and erected his capital in a more fertile land, thus letting go of a great fortune for many generations.
Standing on the hills that overlooked the ninety-nine islands, one would find that some were big and some were small, and none of them appeared to be special from a quick glance.
However, Li Qiye knew that there was a big secret hidden in this place. The research that he did in the past had not been fruitful until he obtained the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key from the Eastern Hundred Cities. It was then that he understood the key’s mysteries, leading him to solve the secret of the Thousand Islands.
This was also why he wanted to go to the Sacred Nether Realm, and why the Thousand Islands was one of his goals.
He explored one island after another before stopping on the one farthest to the south. This particular island didn’t have many good points compared to the others, but if one had to name a particularly unique characteristic, then it would be that this island looked like a palm from a bird’s eye view.
Li Qiye looked down from the highest point of the island and murmured: “So it is indeed this place. One of the things that remained incalculable for eras!”
There was a withered tree at the highest point of this island. To be more exact, this withered tree had already died. Its body was burnt to a crisp black; it seemed to have incited the heavenly wrath and got struck by lightning till death. In the end, only a three-foot stump remained above the ground.
This stump was also hollow, the hole reaching deep into the ground. It was pitch black as one looked down into this tree hole.
This stump that was killed by lightning seemed to be a black hand reaching out from the ground, inviting unsuspecting visitors.
“Thunk, thunk, thunk.” As Li Qiye tapped on the stump, it issued a clear metallic sound as if it was not made of wood, but divine iron.
“So this really is it!” After carefully observing it and comparing it to the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key in his hand, Li Qiye couldn’t help but mutter. He finally revealed a smile and said: “Let me see if the legend is real or not. Allow me to solve this eternal mystery!”
Since his arrival, Li Qiye conveniently built a hut and began to live his life as a mortal. During his stay on the island, he started to harvest the resin of the Ghost Locust Trees as if he had become a resin farmer.
However, he did not limit himself to the Ghost Locust Trees on this island, he wanted to harvest resin from all of the islands.
Not only did he require a large amount of resin, he also needed to leave behind a unique mark on all of the trees on the islands.
If it was something as simple as harvesting, then he could have just hired some mortals to do so to save himself the trouble. It was obvious that Li Qiye required more than just the resin alone.
Ever since his stay at the islands, day after day passed by as he performed farming duties, cutting the tree bark, then harvesting the resin! He did so over and over again from sunrise all the way until sunset.
Despite being so close to the sea, there were still hundreds of thousands of mortals that lived on the islands with cities that were no less grand than the inland ones.
It could be said that the Thousand Islands was quite a bustling place. The mortals here mainly fished for a living; there were not too many farmers because the resin of the Ghost Locust Tree essentially had no use.
The mortal inhabitants found it quite strange to see Li Qiye going around the islands to harvest the resin from the trees. Nevertheless, the islands belonged to the Static Stream Country, and the highest authority of the islands was the Region Lord, Lu Baiqiu.
Since Lu Baiqiu allowed for Li Qiye to harvest resin on the islands, other people didn’t bother to interfere with him.
Later on, Lu Baiqiu also came to see Li Qiye. It had to be said that Lu Baiqiu was indeed a good lady. As long as human cultivators who came to the islands didn’t cause any trouble, they would receive help from the islands’ authority.
Of course, Lu Baiqiu was also surprised to see Li Qiye collect so much resin: “What are you going to do after harvesting so much?”
Keep in mind that the resin of these trees had always been useless, so despite there being a lot scattered across the islands, it was not very valuable.
“I am mixing together a particular medicinal paste that requires a large amount of tree resin, so I plan to take a lot now in order to avoid running back here in the future.” Li Qiye answered with a smile.
His answer was quite reasonable, so Lu Baiqiu didn’t probe any further. She had already allowed for him to do so, so as long as he didn’t cause any trouble, he would remain under her protection.
In the beginning, some people felt that a farmer like Li Qiye was indeed a bit different, but after a while, they got used to it and no one paid attention to such a farmer.
Li Qiye spent his time on the island by following a very strict schedule. During the day, he would harvest the resin, during the night, he would cultivate. Despite doing such an important job, he was not in a rush at all. He aimed to carve gigantic runic outlines on the islands; these markings were part of the rune arrays!
But as all the residents on the islands got used to Li Qiye, someone began to notice him.
An invited guest came to his hut; it was a lady, a very beautiful lady. She wore a blue dress and had a transcendent aura. Her beauty could shame the moon and flowers and cause the birds to fall while the fishes would dive since they found themselves unworthy. Her figure was amorous and had a charming style. All of her gestures were filled with a transcendental air as if she did not belong in this mortal world.
With a spirited pair of eyes, her body seemed to be filled with worldly essence. At the same time, her breath was as refreshing as a pure bamboo forest.
After she came to the Thousand Islands, she immediately took note of Li Qiye and watched him for two to three days as if she wanted to find a clue.
Two days later, as Li Qiye was harvesting the resin, he lightly said to this lady: “Little Girl, don’t stand behind me and watch all day long. My temper is not very good, so you better watch it, lest I throw you into the sea to feed the sharks.”
It was quite strange to see someone younger than her speak as if he was an experienced old man. However, the lady did not become angry and slightly chuckled instead: “Uncle, I just wanted to warn you.”
“Uncle?” Li Qiye gave her a look and said: “If you wish to get close to me, calling me uncle won’t do. If you call me Young Master or Young Noble, then I can consider taking you in.”
The lady in blue didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. This guy in front of her was a little too much. Who in the entire Distant Cloud would dare to boast about taking her in?
“Uncle, watch out or you might bite your tongue!” The lady in blue said with a wide smile. Her spirited smile was like the blooming of a hundred flowers or the singing of an oriole — warming the heart and delighting the eyes.
She continued to say: “If you want to brag, then make sure you can back it up. Otherwise, it won’t do.”
Li Qiye glared at her and said: “What does a little girl like you know? Don’t interfere with my business, or I’ll really throw you into the sea no matter how great your origin may be.” Having said that, he started to ignore her and kept on harvesting the resin.
The lady in blue was astounded. She had met many arrogant people, but not one this outrageous.
However, she did not give up and continued to follow Li Qiye as he harvested and said: “Uncle, I’m giving you a warning out of kindness!”
“What warning?” Li Qiye said as he was collecting the resin.
The lady in blue also put on a demeanor similar to Li Qiye’s and nonchalantly smiled: “Do you know the origin of the Thousand Islands?”
“The Thousand Islands’ origin?” Upon hearing this, Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile, then he looked at her to say: “I actually want to hear about the origin of these islands.”
The lady in blue said: “Legends say that during a very ancient time, ninety-nine fierce ghosts once caused chaos at the Sacred Nether World and turned it into a ghastly world. The high heavens was enraged by the actions of these ninety-nine ghosts and unleashed their supreme wrath to kill the ninety-nine ghosts. In the end, the bodies of these ghosts drifted down the Thousand Carp River and eventually reached the estuary before sinking into the ocean. In the end, their bodies turned into the islands that you see here.”
Chapter 386 - Mysterious Lady In Blue
“The Sacred Nether World is essentially a ghastly realm. Perhaps there are monstrous ghosts buried beneath the ground, so even if the Thousand Islands are made from the ninety-nine ghosts, it is nothing too special.” Li Qiye replied with a smile.
There weren’t many in this world that knew more about the Thousand Islands’ origin than Li Qiye; of course, the existence lying below the earth did not count!
“This is not the scariest part!” The lady in blue blinked her spirited eyes and softly said: “Their bodies became the islands, and their hair turned into the Ghost Locust Trees. The resin of the Ghost Locust Trees is actually the cursed blood of these ghosts, so anyone who is infected with this blood will have to suffer the curse.”
“Uncle, you have to be careful because if you get cursed, the legend says that you will turn into stone.” The lady gently smiled and said.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but chuckle at the lady’s story.
The lady in blue couldn’t restrain herself: “Uncle, why are you laughing? This is a real legend, not just some made-up tale that I thought up on the spot.”
Li Qiye looked at her and leisurely said: “Curse… Do you know what the most terrifying curse in this world is?”
“What is it?” The lady in blue curiously shifted her head and looked at Li Qiye.
Li Qiye pointed at his face and cheerfully said: “The most terrifying curse in this world… is me! The curse of the ghosts is nothing. Even the curse from the high heavens — to me — is just like the drifting clouds, nothing more.”
“Uncle, you really can’t deviate from your main profession. Just a few words and you have started boasting again.” The lady in blue couldn’t help but reveal a very beautiful chuckle as she narrowed her pretty eyes. 1
Li Qiye smilingly shook his head in response and stopped paying attention to her again. How could she know the secret regarding this matter?
“Uncle, what are you harvesting so much resin for?” The lady did not give up and kept on following Li Qiye. She was clearly older than him, but she wanted to tease him, so she kept on referring to him as “uncle” over and over.
Li Qiye stopped and looked at her: “Do you really want to know what I want to do?”
“I’m all ears!” The lady in blue took a dignified pose, causing her to look very elegant. Others would not dare to bear impure thoughts in her sight.
Li Qiye narrowed his eyes to glare at her. This caused the lady’s heart to jump since she felt a dangerous aura. Right now, her intuition was warning her about the danger that emanated from Li Qiye. It was as if he was a wild prehistoric beast and she was only a helpless lamb being preyed upon by him!
“It is not too difficult to find out the secret!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “I am a very benevolent individual that will happily share secrets with others. How about this, I am in need of a faded old wife to cook for me. You can stay behind as a cook, then you might be able to find the mysteries within.” 2
Upon hearing this, the lady couldn’t help but touch her face a bit. Girls were always sensitive about appearances, so she coquettishly said: “I am not a faded old woman!”
“There’s not much difference.” Li Qiye casually said: “Even if you aren’t one now, your age isn’t too far off. Stay behind and be a nice housewife. Cooking for me is not unbecoming of you.”
The lady in blue suddenly became speechless and also felt an impulse to become crazy! Even though a heaven’s proud daughter like her didn’t care for her appearance too much, she was nearly driven mad by Li Qiye’s words today.
With her face and her figure, even if she was not number one in the Distant Cloud region, she was still among the top ranks. She was absolutely a great beauty that was capable of toppling kingdoms and cities, but now, she was only a faded old woman in Li Qiye’s eyes.
The more enraging matter was that Li Qiye essentially didn’t think anything of her. With her talents and background, she was definitely the most famous heaven’s proud daughter right now.
At the Distant Cloud, she was absolutely number one amongst the younger generation; it didn’t matter what characteristic people would rank the young ones with. Normally, countless young prodigies would wish to accompany her during a trip. Many of them desperately tried their best just to have a chance to see her face.
Today, Li Qiye spoke as if she was nothing and even wanted her to cook like a mortal. And the worst part was that he made it sound as if cooking for him was an honorable deed!
“It is fine if you don’t want to.” Li Qiye then continued his business without giving her any consideration.
“Fine, I’ll just stay then!” The lady in blue took a deep breath and finally managed to endure her anger.
Li Qiye gently waved his sleeve and said: “It is getting late, so you should go back first. Make a good lunch for me so that I can eat once I’m back.”
The lady in blue was shivering with anger; a heaven’s proud daughter like her was now his servant! But she still managed to contain her impulse to go mad.
‘Have to endure, must endure… It won’t be too late to slowly teach this brat a lesson later on. Then, we’ll see if he can still be so arrogant!’ In the end, she went back to cook for Li Qiye. If outsiders knew of this matter, eyes would definitely roll on the floor.
At noon, Li Qiye went back to his island and immediately smelled something burning. After noticing that there were a few burnt dishes on the table, he shook his head and said: “Oh my, your cooking skills are much worse than a faded old woman’s.”
The lady almost vomited blood from anger. A proud girl like her actually had to cook for someone. Doing such a lowly thing was not something she wanted to do.
Nevertheless, the food might be a little burnt, but at least it was still made with her effort! Not to mention that she couldn’t be blamed. Ever since she started cultivating in her sect, she never had to participate in such trivial duties. It was already excellent that she could make something like this.
“Little Brat, if you don’t want to eat, then throw it away!” She could no longer bear it and shouted.
Li Qiye looked at her. He calmly tapped on the table and said with a leisurely smile: “Pay attention to your image, your image. What kind of girl screams like a tigress all of a sudden when something goes wrong? Maintain the appearance and attitude of a lady… Do you even know what a lady is? I hope I don’t have to teach you this!”
The lady in blue almost died from exploding as she angrily glared at Li Qiye.
“Well, it seems that you did put in some effort, so I will have a taste of your dishes. Get the rice.” With this, Li Qiye handed his bowl over to the lady in blue.
The lady in blue felt like beating this brat who thought way too highly of himself.
Meanwhile, Li Qiye looked at her and smiled: “So? You are the one who’s willing to stay behind and be a housewife; a cultivator should have a firm will, don’t give up halfway.”
The lady in blue angrily fetched some rice for Li Qiye. If outsiders saw this scene, they would be in a state of disbelief. This was the fairy in the dreams of countless handsome young men who would fight each other just to earn her favor. However, their fairy, right now, had to cook for someone else and do all the tasks a housewife had to perform. She was even being bullied!
As Li Qiye was carefully chewing, the lady in blue had some expectations as she looked at Li Qiye. In the end, it was her first time cooking so she felt quite accomplished and wanted to ask Li Qiye about the taste.
“It is okay, it’s not hard to eat!” Eventually, Li Qiye smilingly evaluated her meal.
“Throw it away if you don’t want to eat it!” The lady’s temper flared up again as she gave him a stern glare. She then ignored Li Qiye as she sat to the side with the appearance of a wronged daughter-in-law. 3
Li Qiye couldn’t help but chuckle. Then, he shook his head: “Little Girl, don’t think you are being treated unfairly. I’m only keeping you around because I think highly of you! If I wished to recruit maids, then forget about the great powers in the Distant Cloud, even the goddesses and fairies of your Ancestral Domain would have to be my maids.”
The lady in blue lifted her head and glared at Li Qiye before she snappily retorted: “Hey, Uncle, your boasting is becoming even more outrageous. Do you even know what the Ancestral Domain represents in the Sacred Nether World?”
“What does it represent?” Li Qiye lazily said: “It’s only a bunch of things that are neither human nor ghost hiding underground, not daring to come out. If their real great ghost could come out, then it might be a bit amazing. If not, then they are no big deal in my eyes!”
“Less bragging please!” The lady in blue angrily said.
Li Qiye only smiled and didn’t say anything else as he continued to eat in a carefree manner.
The lady looked at Li Qiye and didn’t know what to say for a while. Now, she was completely lost. Her initial intention of judging his identity was now completely muddled with confusion.
There was nothing strange or special about this brat. Regarding geniuses, talents, and prodigies, she had seen many of them.
However, this brat before her simply could not compare to geniuses. His arrogant tone was just out of this world! It was as if nothing could get into his sight despite this world being so vast.
Right now, she didn’t understand where this guy’s confidence was coming from at all.
He didn’t seem to be ignorant to the point of being arrogant, but if he wasn’t ignorant, then he should know better and not have so much self-confidence.
Chapter 387 - Nine Celestials Enlightened Being
The lady in blue became a housewife and cooked for Li Qiye. She never revealed her name and background, and Li Qiye never asked.
She didn’t ask for his origin as well, not even his name. It was as if the two of them preferred to keep it mysterious.
In this way, the two of them stayed together in a strange and mysterious atmosphere. Others would actually think that they were husband and wife. The male was hard at work while the girl maintained the house; a talented groom and a beautiful wife — a match made in heaven that was living in seclusion on this small island.
The lady in blue staying with him didn’t affect Li Qiye at all. He still harvested the resin in the day and cultivated at night.
The lady in blue acted like a virtuous young wife. The meals were always ready for her husband when he came back home.
This peaceful lifestyle continued for a short time. The two had a tacit understanding to maintain this harmonious and mysterious situation.
During one night, the lady in blue was deep in her meditation, but she suddenly heard loud explosions. In this instant, energy crazily surged as if a monster in the shape of a man was devouring the worldly essence in this area.
With a shocked expression, she immediately dashed outside and saw an astonishing sight. Li Qiye was sitting in the meditative pose on a hill with his Fate Palaces out in the open. The Kun Peng True Fate had its wings opened and covered the entire island as it frantically swallowed worldly essence.
Moreover, Li Qiye’s True Fate was not the only thing sucking up worldly essence. His six Fate Palaces turned into a vast domain that was filled with primordial chaos and, like a god opening its mouth, they sucked in all the energy of this world.
“A six palaces Royal Noble!” Seeing Li Qiye’s six Fate Palaces, the lady in blue was quite amazed. Having six palaces at this realm meant that he was a genius amongst geniuses.
“Ommm—” Amidst her daze, the nine heavens suddenly became bright. The starry sky promptly ushered forth countless celestial lights in the form of a magnificent galaxy onto Li Qiye.
However, these lights were not absorbed into his body. Instead, a supreme universal law chained them down. The surging tide-like lights were locked by Li Qiye’s dao foundation in the sky as his True Fate used an unparalleled technique to craft them into stars.
After some crisp sounds, nine dazzling stars were suddenly created and hovered around Li Qiye.
At this time, Li Qiye carried a majestic air like the ruler of the universe as he emitted a peerless aura.
“Nine celestials!” Seeing the nine stars, the lady in blue lost her colors. She then took in a deep breath and murmured: “Impossible! Nine celestials Enlightened Being — someone like this has not appeared for a long time!”
Above Royal Noble was the Star Plucking realm, and cultivators of this realm were called Enlightened Beings. This realm directed the stars from the nine heavens in order to craft one’s own stars. Only when one could seize the stars would one be able to also seize the universe!
For ordinary cultivators, seven stars were the limit.
If one could create eight stars, then it didn’t matter if this person only opened three Fate Palaces in the Royal Noble realm. A Royal Noble with only three palaces had a very limited potential and couldn’t reach Ancient Saint, let alone Heavenly Sovereign and Heavenly King. The more palaces, the greater the potential.
Of course, if one couldn’t open the fourth palace in the Royal Noble realm, then there was still a chance to surpass this limitation if they could create the eighth star in the Enlightened Being realm!
This eighth star was the key to unlocking the door to Heavenly Sovereign, Heavenly King, and even Virtuous Paragon. Thus, Enlightened Beings with eight stars were also called Heaven Riders.
In fact, crafting the eighth star was far more difficult than opening the fourth palace. Many people with four palaces could not create this eighth star. As for those who couldn’t even open the fourth palace, don’t even dream about creating the eighth star.
Naturally, through the endless ages, there would be exceptions. Some lost their chance in the Royal Noble realm, but they suddenly showed their talents in the Enlightened Being realm.
An eight celestials Heaven Rider was an amazing miracle; they had a key to unlock their path towards Virtuous Paragon.
One shouldn’t even think about nine stars. Very few since time immemorial were able to create the ninth star.
Nine stars meant Eternal Prestige! Having nine stars was a very terrifying thing. Legends say that those with nine stars could easily pick either the Path of the Heavens or the Path of the Grand Era and would have a high chance of becoming a tyrannical Immortal Emperor or an invincible God!
Currently, Li Qiye had six palaces and also created nine stars. Thus, this suddenly shook the lady in blue. She was an incredible genius that was matchless in the younger generation, and she was very confident in her gifts and cultivation. However, with Li Qiye reaching six palaces and nine stars, she suddenly became eclipsed since there was an uncrossable gap between them!
“Even if I am too handsome, don’t swoon over me so much like this!” While she was still in a daze, she suddenly heard a nonchalant voice ringing by her ears.
With a shiver, she immediately calmed down and saw Li Qiye standing before her. He revealed his white-as-snow teeth and smiled: “I know that I am unreasonably handsome, but it is wrong for you to be so obsessed with me like this.”
The angry lady suddenly had the urge to stomp this egomaniac to death as she bitterly said: “Bah, your face makes me want to die. Who would ever want to look at you!” Finished speaking, she stormed back into the hut.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but laugh after seeing the lady’s attitude, and the lady who had just gone inside ground her teeth after hearing this laugh. There would be a day when she teaches this brat a good lesson!
This kind of life lasted for half a year. At this time, Li Qiye finished collecting resin, so he laid out his runic arrays across the islands. His supreme formation was finally created.
At this time, he began to refine the harvested resin. Collecting this resin was not just an excuse, he actually needed it. It had a magical effect unbeknownst to others besides Li Qiye.
Although the old tale from the lady in blue seemed a little ridiculous, it indeed had some secrets that were purposely hidden to outsiders. These secrets had something to do with both the Thousand Islands and the Ghost Locust Trees.
At the time of refinement, Li Qiye took out the Myriad Heavenly Cauldron and shouted, causing the cauldron’s flame to furiously burn as it turned into a gigantic cauldron. This giant fire seemed to be able to melt everything in an instant.
“Pour all the resin inside.” Li Qiye commanded his assistant, the lady in blue, who was standing to the side.
She immediately poured all of the resin in. After such a long time of harvesting, the resin weighed more than ten thousand pounds.
The lady who was assisting him felt a bit confused. She had never heard of any effects that this resin may have, so she was full of curiosity.
“Zzzz—” A melting sound appeared. All of the resin instantly melted away after it was poured in.
Right after everything was melted, Li Qiye activated the cauldron and, in just a split second, the powerful fiery contraption suddenly turned into a tornado of flames, causing the wind to fiercely howl. All of the resin was spun up high as the fiery dragon-like tornado crazily flung them about, resulting in a spectacular scene.
The lady in blue had seen many alchemists, including Legendary Alchemists, but she was stunned when she saw Li Qiye’s technique. This alchemy style was a bit too violent.
However, such a brutal technique instantly separated the impurities from the resin. These impurities were instantly brought to the primal flame and became incinerated in just a moment.
The separated resin was now clear with a faint smell of wood. At this time, they seemed to be condensing into a jewel-like stone.
Li Qiye had a serious expression as he took out a box. He very carefully took out a leaf that was surrounded by golden lightning.
“What is that?” Seeing this young leaf that resembled a jewel surrounded by golden lightning, the lady in blue emotionally asked.
“This… this is the legendary young leaf of the World Tree!” After a long time, she finally managed to identify the origin of this young leaf and was instantly rendered breathless. Even her sect would not be able to come up with such an item.
In fact, it wasn’t just her sect. Any other faction in this world would not be able to take out such an item because the young leaf of the World Tree only belonged in the legends. Essentially, people had never seen it before.
Chapter 388 - Thousand Islands’ Mystery
The lady in blue was very knowledgeable since she came from a renowned sect. She had only seen this young leaf from an ancient scroll. Moreover, it didn’t have a picture of the leaf, there was only a description stating that there was golden lightning circulating through it. It was definitely rare, and rumors say that only Immortal Emperor Hao Hai had gotten ahold of one.
Even in her wildest dreams, she wouldn’t expect for such a mythical young leaf to appear in Li Qiye’s hands, let alone to be able to see it on such an ordinary island.
Meanwhile, Li Qiye carefully placed the young leaf into the refined resin as he controlled the cauldron to refine the leaf as well.
The flame appeared to have its own sentience as plumes of flame tenderly encompassed the leaf. In just the blink of an eye, the leaf turned into a liquid. The golden lightning entered the resin like calligraphy ink spilling onto a piece of paper inside the cauldron.
The entire process was quite time consuming. After a long period of time, the resin slowly boiled as the cauldron created different universal laws that were as thin as silk strings to surround the resin.
Slowly, the initially transparent resin suddenly transformed into a golden liquid concoction.
Meanwhile, the lady in blue became a bit speechless as she watched this scene. A young leaf of the World Tree was an invaluable item that could reverse life and death. However, Li Qiye actually used such a priceless item to refine this resin — truly too extravagant and irrational.
“This is too wasteful!” She couldn’t help but utter.
“A good item has to be used correctly; if utilized incorrectly, then no matter how great the item is, it would still be worthless.” Li Qiye looked at the golden liquid concoction in the cauldron and couldn’t help but smile.
Next, he also threw the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key inside the contraption. Once it was inside, Li Qiye kept on fueling the flames, causing the medicinal concoction to boil even more!
As the medicinal concoction started to bubble, the key was like a piece of dried ink releasing a black substance. Not long after, the entire golden concoction took on a pitch-black color like ink.
“You, you are being too wasteful!” The lady in blue had the urge to stop Li Qiye. Such a peerless young leaf from the World Tree was wasted in such a manner, could there be an even more prodigal son than he in this world? None of them were worth mentioning in his presence!
However, something very weird happened at this time. Waves of ghostly screams started to emanate from inside the cauldron, followed by countless ghosts rushing out.
All of these ghosts started to bear their fangs and claws, instilling fear in all spectators.
“Omm—” While the lady in blue was being creeped out, the key that was immersed in the medicinal contraption emitted a light that was filled with an immortal presence as if it was everlasting.
“Success!” Seeing this scene, Li Qiye became excited and murmured: “So it really was like this!”
At this time, the contraption became calm again, and the scary ghosts from earlier all disappeared. The happy Li Qiye then took the key from the medicinal contraption and poured the liquid into a jar.
Seeing Li Qiye finishing the refinement process, the lady in blue couldn’t help but ask: “What, what medicinal paste are you refining?”
In her eyes, Li Qiye wasn’t simply refining any ordinary immortal or divine pill. But despite this, he actually used an eternally rare young leaf of the World Tree. This was too irrational! With such a leaf as the leading ingredient, one could probably concoct the rarest kind of immortal elixir in this world. And yet, Li Qiye just used this rare leaf on a black concoction with an unknown use. Such wastefulness deserved criticism from everyone.
“Ghost Attracting Medicine!” Li Qiye cheerfully smiled and said: “Little Girl, because you have been acting as my housewife for so long, I will give you a chance to broaden your horizons. Follow me!”
Finished speaking, he carried the medicine jar and walked away.
Full of curiosity, the lady in blue immediately chased after him. Li Qiye didn’t go very far. He went to the highest location on this island and stopped three feet before the previously mentioned tree stump.
This already-dead tree stump no longer had any signs of life. The center was just a palm-shaped void.
A wooden stump like this in the middle of a forest was something that didn’t warrant attention from anyone. However, at this time, Li Qiye carefully opened the medicine jar and poured the concoction that he just refined onto the stump one layer after another. In just a moment, the stump was filled with layers of medicine, and the moment it dried, it was as if a layer of black residue was covering the stump.
Seeing this scene, the lady in blue felt like murdering someone. This was the medicine that was created with the World Tree’s young leaf, yet Li Qiye was pouring it over a dead stump. Who in this world was more wasteful than him?
At this time, Li Qiye suddenly became nervous as he held the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key and gazed at the dead stump that was covered in medicine. Just for this dead stump, he already invested a young leaf from the World Tree. If this didn’t work, then it would truly be a waste.
A while later, the entire estuary suddenly shook. Many cultivators on the island felt this change in the earth, including Region Lord Lu Baiqiu. There was no follow up to the initial tremor.
Many cultivators felt that it was an illusion, that it was only a small tremor, thus no one paid it any mind. However, real masters like the lady in blue didn’t have the same opinion.
At this moment, she felt that something popped at the deepest parts beneath the Thousand Islands. It was as if a heart had just jumped, followed by a calm heartbeat that suddenly vanished without a trace.
Despite the disappearance of this sound, she still felt that something was awakening in the depths of the earth. Maybe the strongest creature since the start of time had been sleeping beneath these grounds.
In this instant, anyone that could see the blade marks left by Li Qiye on the Ghost Locust Trees around the islands would find that these cuts were coming alive. The runes began to move, and they suddenly shifted underground.
This was the great spell that Li Qiye crafted! Keep in mind that his research regarding the islands was not something he recently started. He had already researched these islands a long time ago, and despite having menial returns, he still found a thing or two regarding the secrets of this place. Alas, he had been missing two key things — the young leaf of the World Tree and the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key!
Especially during his sudden revelation when he looked at the key. At that time, he immediately answered a few questions that had been haunting his mind, a few secrets that were unsolved in the Sacred Nether World!
He stood there with bated breath as he watched the dead stump. An unknown amount of time passed by before a slight popping sound gently rang. At this time, the withered stump suddenly gave birth to a young green leaf! This young leaf had a magnificent green color and sprouted from the thick layer of medicinal paste, signifying that it was healthy and growing.
“Yes!” Li Qiye rejoiced after seeing this faint green leaf! Amidst this moment of jubilation, the dried stump suddenly spewed out a thick mist as black as ink. This mist was like a cloud of nether energy that caused others to shiver with their hair standing on end.
Li Qiye immediately threw the key in his hand into the mist. With a buzzing sound, the key actually hovered in the mist and emitted many waves of light that carried an everlasting energy.
These strands of light suddenly penetrated the stump and drilled into the ground from that spot.
Next, the lady in blue heard a series of sounds that resembled cheers, but she also felt as if this was merely an illusion and couldn’t tell whether they were real or not.
Amidst her confusion, little ghosts — one after another — suddenly jumped out from the empty tree stump. These little ghosts were all shrouded in mist, and all of them had different figures and expressions.
One of the little ghosts wore a golden robe as if he was the king of the ghosts, another had two fangs while a third had two wings…
These ghosts suddenly rushed into the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key. The three foot long key initially had ninety-nine little ghosts carved on it, so the ghosts that jumped out from the tree stump found their corresponding carvings and became one with the key.
The lady in blue was speechless and in a daze, but she still managed to count the little ghosts that came out from the ground. After the last one emerged, a total of ninety-nine little ghosts could be seen on the key.
The ninety-nine little ghosts all successfully found the carving that corresponded to them on the key and became one with it.
It was as if the ninety-nine engravings on the key were crafted from the figures of these ninety-nine little ghosts from underground.
After all the little ghosts entered the carvings, the key seemed to have a life of its own and emitted a divine mist-like aura. In a short period of time, a ghastly energy covered the key, but it was no longer ominous. Instead, it was filled with a divine aura as if it was the breath of a Ghost Immortal!
The lady in blue was very knowledgeable since she came from a renowned sect. She had only seen this young leaf from an ancient scroll. Moreover, it didn’t have a picture of the leaf, there was only a description stating that there was golden lightning circulating through it. It was definitely rare, and rumors say that only Immortal Emperor Hao Hai had gotten a hold of one.
Even in her wildest dreams, she didn’t expect for such a mythical young leaf to appear in Li Qiye’s hands, let alone see it on such an ordinary island.
Meanwhile, Li Qiye carefully placed the young leaf into the refined resin as he controlled the cauldron to refine the leaf as well.
The flame appeared to have its own sentience as plumes of fire tenderly entered the leaf. In just the blink of an eye, the leaf turned into a liquid. The golden lightning entered the resin like calligraphy ink spilling onto a piece of paper inside the cauldron.
Chapter 389 - Lady in Blue’s Departure
This ghastly scene astounded the lady in blue. She didn’t know what the ninety-nine little ghosts represented nor did she know what the key that resembled a ruler was!
However, her intuition was telling her that both of these things were extraordinary. Otherwise, they would not have been worthy of Li Qiye spending a young leaf from the World Tree.
Seeing the ghosts entering the key, Li Qiye couldn’t help but become happy as he took a deep breath. He held up the key and carefully looked at it before finally confirming that his theory was correct: “It is indeed so… My efforts were not in vain.”
This wasn’t something he had planned overnight; instead, it was set in motion a very long time ago. The Thousand Carp River, as an emperor lineage, and the Static Stream Country that ruled one direction both contained his shadow.
After putting away the key, he looked at the dead stump and the little green leaf that sprouted from it. He focused and then “boom,” his Fate Palaces opened as he uttered: “Today, I bestow a new life upon you. Follow me!”
The moment these words came out, a buzzing sound came about as the Pillar of Life inside his Fate Palace suddenly turned bright. Runes emerged on the pillar and turned into universal laws. Then, a series of orderly chains appeared and locked this dead stump.
Seeing these universal chains from Li Qiye’s Pillar of Life, the lady in blue was taken by surprise. These chains seemed to be able to build myriad worlds as if they were the basic laws of the three thousand worlds, as if they were able to turn into anything. She had never heard nor seen anything like this before.
In fact, not seeing something like this before wasn’t anything strange because these chains from Li Qiye’s Pillar of Life were refined from the Void Gate’s ancient runes, thus they had an unbelievable origin.
“Go!” With a loud cry, the dead stump was suddenly lifted up high by the universal chains. Its underground roots went far beyond anyone’s imagination. All of these old roots were so lush and long that it would make people think that they took root all over the Thousand Islands.
As this process was occurring, these roots didn’t seem to be dragged out by the chains. Instead, it was as if they were serpents emerging from the ground.
The universal chains carried a root into one of Li Qiye’s Fate Palaces. At this time, the four images of life inside his palace welcomed the arrival of this root as they bestowed their blessings on its body…
In a short period of time, the young green leaf that was growing on the dead stump became even more verdant as if it had obtained nourishment from the Tree of Life and Spring of Life.
“Not a bad harvest.” Li Qiye happily murmured after closing his Fate Palace and returning it to his Neigong meridian.
Even a knowledgeable person like the lady in blue was sent into a daze. She had seen many things before, but the events of today exceeded her comprehension.
Despite her great background, she didn’t know what any of these things were, let alone Li Qiye’s goal.
A critical step had finally been accomplished within his grand plan, so Li Qiye joyously patted his palms clean. This step meant that all of his previous foundations weren’t for naught.
“Little Girl, are you still interested in being my faded old woman for a bit longer?” Li Qiye glanced at the dazed lady in blue and said with a smile.
The lady came back to her senses and couldn’t help but ask: “Where do you want to go?”
Li Qiye narrowed his eyes as he looked at the vast ocean in the distance and replied: “Hard to say. Maybe I will go out to sea, or maybe I will make my way back to the mainland, but I will most likely go out to sea first. Do you want to broaden your horizons?”
Li Qiye rarely invited others, so this act was indicative of how he appreciated the lady in blue. Not everyone was qualified to stay by his side.
The lady in blue hesitated for a moment before finally shaking her head as she replied with a gentle smile: “Uncle, you go by yourself. I don’t want to cook for you anymore, I have to go back and cultivate!”
Li Qiye didn’t force her and nodded his head: “Very well. You have trained your Heaven’s Will Secret Law correctly. Keep trying and you will make great progress. After the current Heaven’s Will becomes stronger, you will have great achievements compared to others.”
While horrified, the lady in blue instinctively took a step back and gazed at Li Qiye with caution. She believed that Li Qiye didn’t recognize her, but he actually just disclosed her main cultivation method!
“Don’t be shocked!” Li Qiye shrugged and said: “There are very few laws in this world that I haven’t seen before. Even though a little girl like you hasn’t told me who you are, I can tell what you are cultivating with a single glance.”
Not to mention, her secret law was far too familiar to him. How could something that he knew so clearly escape his sight?
The lady thought that she hid her identity very well, but it was still not enough to elude Li Qiye’s eyes. Under his gaze, she felt the sensation of being completely exposed!
“Don’t look at me like that.” Li Qiye nonchalantly said: “If I bore ill intent towards you, you would have died countless times already. Of course, those who are malicious towards me will suffer an ugly death.” He finished with a serious countenance.
His narrowed eyes caused the lady in blue to feel the creeps. Although his appearance at this moment seemed to be harmless, her intuition told her that Li Qiye was filled with danger! It was as if he was a terrifying black hole, and none of his enemies could escape his grasp.
“Well then, let this be goodbye!” Li Qiye gently patted the lady’s cheek and smiled: “Don’t miss me too much, I am only a legend!”
The lady in blue stared at Li Qiye’s smile that invited a beating from others, so she felt like beating him up. This brat that didn’t know life from death actually dared to flirt with her!
In the end, she held back her anger and left without a care for Li Qiye.
However, at this time, Li Qiye’s teasing laughter rang: “Little Girl, even though you didn’t grow up to be extremely pretty, this Young Noble is very benevolent. If you miss me in the future, you can come back to my side. I can consider taking in a faded old woman like you any time.”
The lady in blue almost stumbled from rage as her chest intensely swayed up and down due to her uncontrollable anger.
She was not pretty enough?! This was too much; even though she didn’t care about her appearance, she was definitely on the forefront of the beauties list in the Sacred Nether World. How could this brat use these words to describe her without inciting her anger?
“Bah, egomaniac!” Eventually, she expelled some of her anger as she gritted her teeth and used her fastest speed to leave. If she stayed here any longer, maybe this brat would say some even more unflattering things.
After she left, Li Qiye couldn’t help but grin. He didn’t pay too much mind to the matters of the lady in blue.
He looked towards the far sea and pondered for a moment before deciding to leave. But first, he wanted to say goodbye to Lu Baiqiu.
In fact, he had a high evaluation of her. Although her talents were not peerless, they were not bad. The important part was that he enjoyed her attitude!
Although he didn’t need her assistance, after living at the Thousand Islands for so long, she did make it convenient for him.
He left his island and went to the Azure City.
The Azure City was built on the largest island, and it was also the largest city in the Thousand Islands as the main portal city of the Static Stream Country.
It was very bustling as many merchants would come to the Azure City for business. Although it was a bit lacking compared to the large inland cities, anything could be found here.
Humans made up the majority in this city, but there were quite a few demons, members of the blood race, and others entering the Azure City. Even some of the sea demons from the far oceans would come to the Azure City to trade.
The Region Lord held the greatest authority in this place, so her mansion had many guards. However, the reality was that, as the Region Lord, Lu Baiqiu was very popular in the Thousand Islands because she was very approachable. Not only did she take care of the human race, but also the other races. It could be said that her leadership skills were quite amazing.
She came from an ordinary background as a regular disciple of the Static Stream Country, but step by step and through putting in great efforts, she eventually became a Region Lord. It was a great feat that displayed her abilities.
She was not a genius, but her personal aptitudes were not bad. Not to mention, she trained very hard, which was why she became a lord at such a young age.
Chapter 390 - Corner of Mourning
This achievement was quite amazing for a disciple from an ordinary background in a regular country.
When Li Qiye went out to the edge of the Thousand Islands to see if Lu Baiqiu was there, a sea guard said: “Regional Lord Lu brought experts to fight out at sea!”
“Battle?” Li Qiye couldn’t help but grimace. The Thousand Islands faced the vast ocean, and although there were a few demons and sea demons out there, they all lived in the far sea and would not start a war against inlanders.
“Recently, the Mollusk Tribe has started a war!” The guard knew about Li Qiye, so he immediately explained: “They recently appeared in the waters right outside of the islands and stole our sea farms. In the last two to three months, a large amount of our sea jewels have been taken by them.”
There were many industries for the Thousand Islands since they were so near the sea, and the largest of them were the sea farms at the bottom of the ocean.
Sea jewels were a type of refined jade; although they could not completely replace refined jades, there were instances where it served as an acceptable substitute, especially in the Static Stream Country. The spirit energy contained inside these sea jewels was still a part of the worldly essence.
“Regional Lord Lu and many experts had forced the Mollusk Tribe back many times, but they appeared again yesterday, so the lord wanted to catch them all in one fell swoop.” This guard explained.
Right at this moment, Lu Baiqiu returned along with many wounded people that had to be carried back.
“Lord Lu?” Seeing her injury, the guard was alarmed and quickly went to greet her.
“I’m fine… go treat the others.” Lu Baiqiu was very decisive and ordered for the guards to bring the wounded back inside for treatment. Li Qiye looked at their wounds and also followed them inside.
After returning, Lu Baiqiu fortified the defensive perimeter and sent disciples to treat the injured with resolution befitting a general.
After dealing with everything, she finally found Li Qiye sitting silently in the main hall, so she immediately asked: “What prompted Dao Brother Li’s presence here?”
“Nothing.” Li Qiye said with a smile: “I planned to go out to sea so I’m here to say goodbye.”
“The sea?” Lu Baiqiu slightly furrowed her brows. Among all the girls Li Qiye knew, she was not the prettiest, but her short hair and valiant air had a remarkably cool charm.
Lu Baiqiu gently shook her head in response: “Dao Brother Li, I’m afraid the outer sea is not very stable right now due to the constant disruption of the Mollusk Tribe. Recently, it has gotten to the point of robberies. I think that it is better for you to wait until the storm passes before going out.”
Lu Baiqiu and Li Qiye didn’t have a deep connection, but she still looked out for him because he was part of the human race.
“Mollusk Tribe?” Li Qiye replied: “I know of them, the Mollusk Tribe is not a warmongering tribe among the sea demons. Plus, they are also very territorial and normally wouldn’t leave their ancestral ground, let alone come to the shore to plunder others.”
“That is the strange part!” Lu Baiqiu let out a wry smile and said: “It is too strange. We originally planned to ambush them at the Corner of Mourning, but I don’t know how they suddenly appeared right behind us. They even ambushed us instead.”
“Inside the Corner of Mourning is our Thousand Islands’ waters where a defensive perimeter has been set up. If they used a dao gate to teleport their warriors inside, then we would have found out right away. However, there were no signs of an ambush!” Lu Baiqiu continued on with a slightly bitter grimace: “I might have to report this to the capital since it is a bit odd!”
“Corner of Mourning?” Li Qiye squinted and then revealed a smile to say: “Where is the Mollusk Tribe right now?”
“After the ambush, they took the sea jewels from our farms and retreated. If Dao Brother Li doesn’t have anything else to say, then I have to take my leave for now.”
Li Qiye then answered with a smile: “I have a method for you to repel the Mollusk Tribe. But as for why they suddenly appeared inside the Corner of Mourning, you will understand when the time comes.”
“You have a way?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but to take another look at Li Qiye. In her eyes, Li Qiye was very normal, but this did not mean that she looked down on him. He had to be an ordinary disciple of some sect that came out to pick medicine, so his cultivation must be limited.
However, this sudden revelation of a method to defeat the Mollusk Tribe left Lu Baiqiu with some hesitation.
“The reason why the Mollusk Tribe appeared inside the corner without any warning is very simple. Your corner has a certain pathway.” Li Qiye explained.
“Pathway, what kind of pathway?” Lu Baiqiu expressed with some surprise.
Li Qiye continued on with a smile: “To the left of the corner, about one hundred meters down, is a trench with a lot of seagrass. If you pull the seagrass out, you will find a pathway underneath. Although it is only a hundred meters long, it can reach thousands of miles to other places in the ocean. If my hypothesis is correct, they must have come from this place. It is not difficult for you to defeat them if you set up an ambush right at this particular trench.”
“A one hundred meter pathway capable of extending a thousand miles to sea?” After hearing this, Lu Baiqiu was quite skeptical. How could she not be privy to this when it was part of the Thousand Islands’ territory?
“Just go and see for yourself!” Li Qiye noticed her skepticism and said with a smile.
She then looked at him again and couldn’t help but ask: “How do you know about this pathway?”
“That is a secret.” Li Qiye simpered while speaking: “If you don’t believe me, you can take people to check.”
How could he not know about this particular pathway? It was he who opened it in the past! He aimed to find another island undersea, so he opened many pathways in this region.
Later on, the search was unfruitful, so many pathways became destroyed and some were abandoned.
Lu Baiqiu remained wary as she looked at him. It was not because she didn’t believe him, but rather, this matter was a bit too sudden. If it was anyone else, they would be wondering if he was a spy sent by the enemy right now.
“Very well, I will stay at your port for a few days. Come tell me once you find something.” How could Li Qiye not see through her, thus prompting his response.
“Since Brother Li puts it this way, we’ll have to give it a try.” Lu Baiqiu nodded her head and said: “If Brother Li is willing to stay as a guest in our port, we will sincerely welcome you.” Having said that, she arranged for Li Qiye’s accommodation.
She didn’t make things difficult for Li Qiye and treated him like an esteemed guest.
And Li Qiye, on the other hand, didn’t pay it any mind as he leisurely strolled around in the port. He was not in a hurry to go out to sea.
Three days later, Lu Baiqiu excitedly came back. The moment she saw Li Qiye, she couldn’t help but to say with delight: “Brother Li is indeed magical and your prophecies are godlike. The Mollusk Tribe truly came from that pathway, so we had an ambush set up in the trench and completely defeated them in one blow. They might not be able to recover in a short period of time so they won’t dare to come and plunder us again.”
This was within Li Qiye’s expectations, so he simply smiled a bit and said: “Congratulations, Region Lord Lu. You have achieved a great merit for the Static Stream Country. Maybe you could even be promoted to a protector. With your future potential, maybe you could even take charge of the country in the future.”
“Brother Li is too kind!” Lu Baiqiu revealed a fresh and beautiful smile as she shook her head: “Talents are plentiful in our Static Stream Country, so it won’t be my turn to take charge!”
The hegemony of the Static Stream Country was not passed down from father to son. Instead, it was for those who were capable. Even till now, the throne of the country was handed to the disciple with the most contributions and the best cultivation.
“Now that Region Lord Lu has driven away the enemy, I must be going!” Li Qiye told Lu Baiqiu with a smile.
His assistance was simply to return her hospitality in the past.
“Brother Li is going out to sea…” Lu Baiqiu pondered for a moment before asking: “We discovered a few things during this battle. Brother Li is a very well-informed person, so maybe you can go take a look and dispel our confusion?”
“A discovery?” Li Qiye was a bit surprised.
Lu Baiqiu quickly added: “We captured a group of experts from the Mollusk Tribe alive and found out that they have found some old ruins. They were stealing our sea jewels because of these ruins. I have checked it out once, but I didn’t understand its mysteries.”
“Old ruins?” Li Qiye stroked his chin and cheerfully continued: “If this is the case, then I don’t mind going to check it out.”
Lu Baiqiu’s mind suddenly rang with excitement and immediately dealt with some administrative duties before leaving with Li Qiye to the sea.
She controlled a flying ship in the sky, heading for the ocean. In fact, these ruins found by the Mollusk Tribe were not far away from the Thousand Islands; they were only about one thousand miles apart.
With the flying ship, it was not long before they arrived.
The ruins were under the sea and inside a marina trench that had an architectural style that resembled an ancient temple.
This ancient temple had been under this sea for who knew how many generations; it remained eternal in this place.
It was once covered with a countless amount of seagrass, but now, it had been cleaned up.
“This place!” Li Qiye couldn’t help but stroke his chin after seeing this ancient temple because he had been to this place a long time ago.
Chapter 391 - Undersea Shrine
Back when Li Qiye was looking for another island and had no results despite having searched everywhere, he also found this ancient shrine under the sea. He once looked through it and thought that this shrine and the other island had something to do with each other, but he also felt that this shrine was lacking a certain something, so he gave up on researching it.
“A master from the Mollusk Tribe was passing through this area some time ago. A light suddenly shot upward so he went down to look and found this ancient shrine. Then, they found a gateway hidden below this area.” Lu Baiqiu reported.
“A gateway?” Having heard this, Li Qiye suddenly became serious and rushed into the ancient shrine like the wind.
Sure enough, there was a gateway floating inside the ancient shrine. However, during his investigations in the past, this gateway had not been there.
Li Qiye carefully observed this gateway. The other side contained a miniature continent that was as black as ink.
Li Qiye gently reached out to feel this gateway. He felt a fluctuation of space and murmured: “So this is the case, a dimensional banishment!”
His previous speculation of this shrine missing a certain key item was correct. This gateway was banished in the past.
“I learned from the Mollusk experts that there has always been a legend in their ocean, that there was a mythical island that was lost through time. It had been hidden in a divine shrine, and only when one could solve the secrets of this shrine would one be able to reach this island.” Lu Baiqiu said: “After the Mollusk Tribe found this ancient shrine, they immediately tried using refined jades to open this gateway to reach the lost mythical island. Unfortunately, they weren’t even close to having enough refined jades, so they had to plunder the sea jewels that we produced.”
She continued on: “When I came here, refined jades and sea jewels were abundant at this place, but it was still not enough to open the gateway.”
“How could it be so easy?” Li Qiye carefully looked at the gateway and responded: “The legend isn’t necessarily accurate. To be more specific, this is not a lost mythical island, but the hundredth island!”
“The hundredth island?” Lu Baiqiu was a bit perplexed as she asked: “What is this hundredth island?”
“The hundredth island of the Thousand Islands!” Li Qiye meticulously rubbed the gateway and felt the fluctuations of space as he continued: “Your Thousand Islands has a total of one hundred islands. Moreover, this hundredth island is far bigger than the other ninety-nine combined!”
“But, but this is only a legend!” The astounded Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but utter: “I have also heard of this legend, but no one had ever been able to find this island. Not to mention that if it was actually bigger than all the other ones combined, someone would have found it already.”
“There are a few things beyond one’s imagination!” Li Qiye asserted with a smile: “There are a few mysteries that one can never touch!”
With a changed expression, Lu Baiqiu looked at Li Qiye who was studying the gateway and hurriedly asked: “Can this gateway be opened?”
“That would depend on who is operating it!” Li Qiye withdrew his hand and chuckled: “In order to open this gateway, first, one must have Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades, and second, they must understand this gateway.”
“Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades!” Lu Baiqiu had to take in a calming breath. An item of this caliber was a huge sum even for the Static Stream Country, let alone her!
Li Qiye smiled and said: “This is only the beginning.” Then, piece after piece, he took out Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades and slowly inserted them into the gateway.
“Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades!” Lu Baiqiu was stunned with her mouth wide open after seeing Li Qiye take out multiple pieces. Even her country didn’t have that many, but now, Li Qiye freely took out so many!
Before, she assumed that he was an ordinary disciple of some sect, but even someone from a great power would not be able to take out so many Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades!
She felt a bit stupefied while looking at Li Qiye. At this moment, she understood that he was hiding his abilities like a murky mist, completely undetected by her.
“Open!” Li Qiye activated the refined jades that were embedded in a particular manner on the gateway. From his cry, the gateway emitted a bright radiance.
“Ka—ka—ka!” At this time, an amazing thing happened as the initially large gateway shrunk down to the size of a fist and fell into Li Qiye’s palm.
“Bang—bang—bang—” Suddenly, the entire area started to shake as the ancient shrine that stood strong for countless years began to crack.
“What happened!?” Lu Baiqiu became startled by the commotion and drew in a deep breath.
“Go!” Li Qiye shouted as he dragged Lu Baiqiu away. They immediately soared to the sky and escaped from the current in just the blink of an eye. The moment they got out, an unceasing mist covered the initially blue sky.
“What is going on?” The shrouding mist that covered the sea caused others to be disoriented. The moment Lu Baiqiu looked all around, she became quite shocked and pointed up ahead.
On the other side of the shrouding mist, there were majestic towering peaks that one would find on a continent.
“It is so!” Seeing the huge mountain range shrouded in mist, Li Qiye’s eyes narrowed as he murmured: “Truly unable to find the destination after wearing out iron soles, then inadvertently finding it without any effort.”
“Could this be the mythical lost island?” Lu Baiqiu uttered with emotion: “People say that this island buried all the treasures from immemorial deities. We need to go take a look!” Having said this, she intended to rush through the mist in order to reach this island!
“Don’t go!” Li Qiye quickly caught her and shook his head to say: “It is not so easy to get there. Take another look if you don’t believe me!” With that, he casually threw a rock with the speed of a meteor towards the island where it pierced through the mist.
However, the moment when it approached its destination, this huge rock suddenly disappeared.
Lu Baiqiu’s expression greatly changed after seeing the sudden disappearance of the rock. It was as if the rock was swallowed by a giant monster. At this time, the vast rolling mountains inside the mist were like a monster silently waiting with its maw open for wandering prey.
“What is this place!?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but utter.
Li Qiye smiled a bit and said with squinted eyes: “This is the hundredth island and also what you guys call the lost mythical island!”
After calming down, Lu Baiqiu gravely said: “I must return to the capital and report this to His Highness. What is your opinion on this matter?”
Li Qiye gazed towards the mountains in the mist and casually said: “You go, I will stay behind to think for a bit.”
Lu Baiqiu bade a fond goodbye to Li Qiye and then immediately returned while Li Qiye stayed behind to think about this mist. He knew that as long as he could pass through this misty layer, he would be able to get into the one hundredth island.
This place had many secrets that were purposely hidden from others. It dated back to a very old age, so it was not an easy matter to board this lost mythical island.
Li Qiye tried to get closer, but the result left him with a chilling sensation. The all-encompassing mist was like a ferocious beast; anyone who went close would suffer a horrific fate no matter how strong they were.
After pondering for several days, he understood that one must cross this layer in order to reach the island, but it was also a suicidal endeavor. This went on for a long time before he eventually smiled and left the sea to go back to the island where he used to live.
At this moment, he was not in a rush to reach the lost island. He was waiting for the right moment, waiting for other people to court their deaths. The layer of mist was a bloodthirsty monster. Only when it became satiated would one be able to reach the island; otherwise, it was an endeavor harder than reaching the heavens.
Thus, he was waiting for others to come. When the time was ripe, he would easily set foot on the lost island. He was also not afraid of the items that he wanted being taken by others since he was certain of victory. After all, he was the one holding the real key of the lost island. With this settled, Li Qiye leisurely stayed on his island and cultivated in peace.
A short time ago, Li Qiye created nine stars so he had reached the peak of Enlightened Beings.
In fact, creating seven stars already signified grand accomplishment Enlightened Being, but Li Qiye was able to create nine stars. This was a challenge to the limits of cultivators — to reach the apex of the Enlightened Being realm.
Back when Li Qiye was looking for another island and had no results despite having searched everywhere, he also found this ancient temple under the sea. He once looked through it and thought that this temple and the other island had something to do with each other, but he also felt that this temple was lacking a certain something, so he gave up on researching this temple.
“A master from the Mollusk Tribe was passing through this area some time ago. A light suddenly shot upward so he came down to look and found this ancient temple. Then, they found a gateway hidden below this sea.” Lu Baiqiu reported.
“A gateway?” Having heard this, Li Qiye suddenly became serious and rushed into the ancient temple like the wind.
Chapter 392 - Ancient Saint
In fact, to Li Qiye, creating nine stars at this realm was a matter of course. His dao foundation was firm; especially after the Worldly Prime Liquid tempered Li Qiye, his foundation became unshakable right after he opened the sixth palace.
For a Royal Noble, having six palaces carried great significance. It meant that their future path was paved for success.
This was Li Qiye’s attempt at challenging the limits — to reach the peak by using his solid foundation. During the battle at the Tiger’s Howl School, Li Qiye devoured all the worldly essence of the White Tiger Great Vein in order to accumulate enough energy to create the nine stars in an even more favorable condition.
Thus, after he reached Enlightened Being, creating nine stars was only a matter of time and determination. Li Qiye’s stalwart dao heart allowed him to tread forward no matter how arduous the path was. Even if other people thought that it was impossible to create nine stars, he remained with the most relaxed frame of mind as he challenged the limits, allowing him to complete this task with ease!
At the same time, there was only one chance to pluck the stars, so creating nine stars was especially important to Li Qiye. There were three chances to open Fate Palaces, but only one chance for plucking stars, thus this single opportunity became even more valuable.
In fact, for tens of millions of years, creating the eighth star was more difficult than opening the sixth Fate Palace.
The phrase “Nine Stars allowing for Eternal Prestige” was not just empty words. Since time immemorial, those with the title of Eternal Prestige were fewer than few. Nine stars did not just mean that the person had obtained a key to the Path of the Grand Era or the Path of the Heavens, it also meant they had created their own sky!
Having one’s own sky was a marvelous and unfathomable feat because the Ancient Saint realm was the last chance for any cultivator to open another palace.
If a Royal Noble stopped at the third palace, then once they reached Ancient Saint, they had the chance to open the fourth, the fifth, and so on and so forth…
Four palaces to form a domain, eight palaces to form a kingdom, twelve palaces to form the heavens! Since the start of time, every cultivator believed that having twelve palaces was the limit of cultivation.
In fact, this was not an unreasonable statement because those who had twelve palaces could be counted on one’s fingers. Even the majority of those who eventually became Immortal Emperors did not open twelve palaces.
The reality was that opening eight palaces was already quite amazing. Once one obtained eight palaces, it meant that the person would have the power of a kingdom. This meant that there was a large possibility for them to found a country and eventually be bestowed the title of a god! 1
As for nine palaces… This was a great restriction. Countless geniuses in the previous millions of years stopped at eight palaces, unable to open the ninth.
Because of this, there was a remark passed down from generation to generation: Nine deserves utmost veneration, ten strives for extreme perfection, eleven creates an immemorial miracle, and twelve decides the Immortal Emperor’s throne!
Achieving twelve Fate Palaces was essentially an impossible matter. There might be a sliver of hope for historical devilish geniuses to open eleven palaces, but any genius would have to give up on opening the twelfth.
However, being able to create nine stars at the Enlightened Being realm would indeed qualify one as a historical devilish genius, so there was still some hope of opening the twelfth.
Nine stars Eternal Prestige meant that one would have their own sky, and twelve palaces forming the heavens meant that having nine stars was a requirement to reach twelve Fate Palaces in the future! 2
Without a doubt, Li Qiye held the ambition of reaching twelve Fate Palaces; thus, after creating nine stars and reaching the Ancient Saint realm, he kept on solidifying his foundation one step at a time.
With his past achievements of six palaces and nine stars in their respective realms, he would be able to fiercely soar forward and create a miracle by becoming a Heavenly Sovereign — a true expert in a short amount of time. However, upon becoming an Ancient Saint, he slowed down again since his ambition was not limited to just becoming a sovereign.
His real goal was having twelve Fate Palaces, or even the mythical thirteen palaces! If he could succeed, then in the future, he could actually reach the real apex of the grand dao.
As he sat in the room, his blood energy circulated after being channeled by his Life Wheel. The newly refined Longevity Blood then flowed back into the Life Wheel with a surging radiance.
At this time, the six palaces above Li Qiye’s head floated up and down and turned into a domain. The worldly essence caused the domain to be filled with primordial chaos and vitality as if it was gestating millions of existences!
The nine stars surrounding Li Qiye created a sky that loomed above Li Qiye as if he had been removed from the outside world and isolated in a different one.
A heavenly beam shot up into the sky as if it wanted to communicate with the heavens and inquire about the heavenly dao. From another perspective, this beam seemed to be talking to the gods of this world. Nevertheless, this beam caused Li Qiye to appear sacred; it was as if he was the high heaven’s favored child or the son of the earth.
This heavenly beam of light was formed from Li Qiye’s cultivation of the Daylight Sky Immortal Secret. The moment it connected to the heaven and earth, it allowed for Li Qiye to become one with the grand dao as his body was immersed inside the path.
These secret laws were powerful and mysterious, but their power was not just limited to the battlefield. Compared to other powerful techniques, Heaven’s Will Secret Laws didn’t seem to be worthy of their fame while the Heaven’s Will was still in its infancy stages.
However, once the Heaven’s Will of a generation slowly manifested to its grand stage, the advantages of these secret laws would finally show themselves.
In this instant, Li Qiye’s Neigong meridian continuously rumbled as if something wanted to climb out from the earth.
This was Li Qiye trying to open his seventh palace. Of course, opening a palace was a long and arduous process.
There were three stages in the Ancient Saint realm. From beginning to end, the stages are Palace Opening, Domain Formation, and City Creation!
To an ordinary cultivator with only three palaces, they just needed to open the fourth to reach the Ancient Saint realm.
Four palaces form a domain, so in the Ancient Saint realm, one would need to turn these four palaces into a domain, then turn this domain into a city.
For Li Qiye who had six palaces that had turned into cities capable of supporting existences, he could directly surpass grand accomplishment Ancient Saint and reach Heavenly Sovereign right away!
However, Li Qiye did not do so. He stopped at the Ancient Saint realm in order to fortify his foundation and absorb worldly essence to continuously strengthen his True Fate to open the seventh palace…
Ancient Saints also had three levels: Little Saint, Young Saint, and Grand Saint. However, Li Qiye was not part of this classification because opening the fourth palace was the beginning of this realm.
A five palace saint is a Heaven Restoration Saint because a Royal Noble with four palaces is called a Heavenly Noble, so an Ancient Saint with five palaces was only making up for what they were lacking back in the Royal Noble realm.
A six palace saint is called a Dao Restoration Saint due to the same principle of catching-up as the previous title.
The moment one opened the seventh palace, they would be called a Heavenly Saint. This was the real starting point of Ancient Saints, just like the fourth palace of the Royal Noble realm.
Those who opened the eighth palace were called Grand Dao Saints, and those with nine were called Pinnacle Saints.
Having nine palaces was the limit of Ancient Saints, just like how having six palaces was the limit of Royal Nobles.
Within this realm, a person with nine palaces could directly suppress others of the same level. It did not matter how strong the opponent’s cultivation was, as long as they didn’t have nine Fate Palaces, they would suffer a direct suppression.
This was the reason why Bing Yuxia could be so proud with her nine palaces. Even Deity Jikong Wudi and Goddess Mei Suyao had to be wary of her.
As a Pinnacle Saint, she was a tyrant amongst all saints. It didn’t matter which merit laws other saints cultivated since they were directly pressured by her palaces!
At this time, Li Qiye’s blood energy soared like a magnificent rainbow as his Neigong meridian resounded with thunderous explosions, signaling the opening of the seventh palace. Li Qiye had absolute confidence that obtaining nine palaces was not a challenge to him, and even opening twelve palaces was not a test. His real ordeal was the mythical thirteenth palace!
With a thunderous rumble, Li Qiye’s Hell Suppressing Inner Physique suddenly disappeared while the second Inner Physique was also quivering.
The trembling second Inner Physique was shaking as if an immortal existence was gently shaking its wings, stagnating the flow of time so that one flap of these wings would allow for Li Qiye to escape the temporal restriction!
The Soaring Immortal Physique was the second Inner Physique that Li Qiye wished to cultivate.
For others, cultivating two Immortal Physiques was impossible, but not for Li Qiye. At this moment, his Hell Suppressing Godly Physique was at minor completion and was still a long ways off from grand completion.
So at this time, he slowed down the cultivation of the Hell Suppressing Godly Physique and spent more energy and time on the second physique instead.
In fact, to Li Qiye, creating nine stars at this realm was a matter of course. His dao foundation was firm; especially after the Worldly Prime Liquid tempered himself, his foundation became unshakable right after Li Qiye opened the sixth palace.
For a Royal Noble, six palaces carried great significance. It meant that their future path was paved for success.
This was Li Qiye’s attempt at challenging the limits to reach the peak by using his solid foundation. During the battle at the Tiger’s Howl School, Li Qiye devoured all the worldly essence of the White Tiger Great Vein in order to accumulate enough energy to create the nine stars in an even more favorable condition.
Thus, after he reached Enlightened Being, creating nine stars was only a matter of time and determination. Li Qiye’s stalwart dao heart allowed him to tread forward no matter how arduous the path was. Even if other people thought that it was impossible to create nine stars, he remained with the most relaxed frame of mind as he challenged the limits, allowing him to complete this task with ease!
Chapter 393 - Don’t Provoke Me
The Soaring Immortal Physique was no worse than any other Immortal Physique! Once successfully cultivated, it allowed its user to have unmatched speed.
Once one’s speed was invincible, treasures and techniques would no longer be important because if the opponent could never catch up to their speed, then the enemy would be killed before even having the chance to make a move.
Once this physique reached grand completion, it could pass through any spatial fabric or even stop time itself! Imagine how frightening a person with unparalleled speed would be, then imagine how much more terrifying a time-stopper would be!
This was why once a person reached grand completion with the Soaring Immortal Physique, essentially, no one in this world would be able to kill him. Someone once commented that only time would be able to kill a grand completion Soaring Immortal Physique user.
Li Qiye had his own reasons for picking the Soaring Immortal Physique. The Hell Suppressing Godly Physique could destroy all things, but it had one weakness — its lack of speed.
Currently, his Hell Suppressing Godly Physique’s speed relied on the Kun Peng’s Six Variants. Although this allowed him to reach sufficient speeds, it was far from enough for Li Qiye since he desired an unbeatable speed.
Imagine the heaviest body plus the fastest speed, what would be the result? This meant that Li Qiye’s body would become the most powerful weapon, which was why he chose the Soaring Immortal Physique!
The Soaring Immortal Inner Physique shook once more as time seemed to become slower around Li Qiye’s body. With gentle waves of buzzing sounds creating a melody that came from Li Qiye’s Neigong meridian, Li Qiye was immersed inside…
“The lost island!” In the capital, the Static Stream Lord sat on his draconic throne and pondered after hearing the report from Lu Baiqiu, who had just rushed here from the Thousand Islands.
“Your Majesty, the lost mythical island is but a legend!” At this time, a young man inside the imperial court spoke. With high spirits, he spoke in a dignified manner without attempting to hide his Royal Noble cultivation. It was as if his cultivation realm was a reason for pride.
He quickly added: “Our Static Stream Country is a great nation, so how could we randomly take action just because of a baseless legend?”
“Xuan Shaojun, the mythical island is out there right now so how could it be baseless!” Lu Baiqiu immediately retorted with a grave voice.
The young man snorted and said: “That is not for certain. Fog on the sea is a common occurrence, so maybe Region Lord Lu had blurry vision. If His Majesty takes a trip for this matter and it turned out to only be ordinary fog, then wouldn’t this be a waste of effort? Hah, then wouldn’t some say that Region Lord Lu exaggerated the matter just to gain some contributory merits?”
This young man’s name was Xuan Shaojun, a rare genius of the Static Stream Country. He had reached Royal Noble one year ago and became one of the few potential king candidates among the younger generation.
He had always viewed Lu Baiqiu as a powerful opponent. Although Lu Baiqiu had been at grand accomplishment Named Hero for the last two years and was very close to Royal Noble, she had contributed a lot more despite her weaker cultivation. Moreover, Lu Baiqiu’s fame in the country was great, and its elders all believed that she could handle the great responsibility.
Because of this, Xuan Shaojun had always viewed her as his strongest rival and opposed her every opportunity he could.
“You!” Lu Baiqiu’s expression sank after hearing his words.
At this time, the Static Stream Lord gently waved his hand to interrupt their quarrel and said: “It is better to believe this as opposed to ignoring it. Although the lost island had always been a legend, it is said to be left behind by True Gods of an ancient era, hiding great secrets! If there is even a sliver of a chance, then we should let the Imperial Advisor go take a look.”
“Understood!” An old man stood up and accepted the order.
***
Li Qiye did nothing except train while he stayed on his small island. However, there was a guest today — Lu Baiqiu.
“Dao Brother Li, this is our Static Stream Imperial Advisor.” Lu Baiqiu introduced the old man standing next to her. Besides the advisor, there were other masters from the country.
“Our Imperial Advisor wants to know about the lost mythical island.” Lu Baiqiu hurriedly explained.
The advisor took a quick look at Li Qiye and found that he was completely ordinary without any outstanding characteristics. Although Lu Baiqiu had told him that Li Qiye was special, in his eyes, this was only due to Lu Baiqiu’s lack of knowledge.
In reality, after the Worldly Prime Liquid refined Li Qiye’s body, how could a mere Imperial Advisor from the Static Stream Country see through him?
In the advisor’s mind, Li Qiye was only a common cultivator while he was the Imperial Advisor of the Static Stream Country — a Grand Saint with a powerful cultivation. Someone like Li Qiye really had no chance of entering his sight.
“I heard from Baiqiu that you were the first one to find the lost island. Tell me what you saw!” The Imperial Advisor spoke with a deep tone.
Li Qiye looked at him and flatly replied: “The lost mythical island isn’t something your Static Stream Country can venture into. It is better for all of you to go back and pretend as if you didn’t see it.”
“How presumptuous!” Before the advisor could say anything, the young man right next to him darted out and contemptuously yelled at Li Qiye: “Ignorant junior! Daring to look down on my Static Stream Country… Are you tired of living!?”
The young man who darted out was Xuan Shaojun. He came along with the Imperial Advisor to find an opportunity to make a great contribution, and Li Qiye’s words just now created an opportunity that he immediately latched onto.
Lu Baiqiu’s expression quickly changed. Li Qiye was her friend and Xuan Shaojun’s words were too out of line!
“Boom!” Li Qiye didn’t bother to look at Xuan Shaojun. He simply flicked his finger and immediately blew Xuan Shaojun away. With a flop, Xuan Shaojun suddenly fell into the ocean. Completely enraged, he wanted to rush back up, but a giant hand suddenly slammed down on him. It pressed him all the way down to the ocean floor, not allowing him to climb back up.
“Don’t hurt him!” All of the other experts who came along with the Imperial Advisor shouted and suddenly pounced on Li Qiye.
Li Qiye remained motionless. With a bang, all the attacking experts were knocked flying by Li Qiye as they spewed out blood.
“Little Friend, the Static Stream Country isn’t a place where you can act as you please!” With some shock, the Imperial Advisor’s Grand Saint aura suddenly surged as he took out his fate weapon to attack.
Li Qiye’s body suddenly shifted with a flash. “Bang!” Before the Imperial Advisor could figure out what was going on, blood had already sprayed everywhere as he was also blown away. Before his body could fall to the ground, Li Qiye gripped him by the neck in the air.
“You…” Suddenly aghast, the Imperial Advisor wanted to speak, but Li Qiye clamped down. The sound of broken bones rang. The Imperial Advisor couldn’t breathe anymore as his body became immobilized. He now had a complexion as pale as snow.
“Dao Brother Li, please show mercy!” Lu Baiqiu was also deathly pale after the sudden turn of events. When she heard the noise of bones breaking, she quickly pleaded.
Although the group of Xuan Shaojun acted out of line, in the end, they were still part of the Static Stream Country, so Lu Baiqiu couldn’t idly stand by.
Li Qiye casually threw the Imperial Advisor to the ground. Like a dead snake lying on the floor, the pale advisor struggled to finally take a single breath.
Li Qiye didn’t bother to look at him and said: “Because of Region Lord Lu, I will spare your lives today! Next time, if you dare to clown around in front of me, do not blame me for not being considerate towards Region Lord Lu.”
The Imperial Advisor was an experienced person. As a Grand Saint, he couldn’t even withstand one blow before being subdued by the enemy. Just how frightening was this person!? If it wasn’t for Lu Baiqiu’s pleading, ten lives still wouldn’t have been enough for him.
After thinking about the consequences, the Imperial Advisor felt a chill as cold chills ran through his palms. He took a deep breath and didn’t dare to linger for a second longer. He carried the other wounded disciples and left. They also struggled to dig up Xuan Shaojun, who was suppressed on the ocean floor.
“Dao Brother Li, I didn’t expect for this to happen!” Before leaving, Lu Baiqiu awkwardly smiled and apologized.
“It is fine, this had nothing to do with you.” Li Qiye gently motioned with his hand and said: “Go back and tell your Royal Lord that it is better not to provoke me, lest I destroy your Static Stream Country!”
These words astounded Lu Baiqiu, sending a shiver down her spine. His first warning was a threat about destroying a country, how tyrannical and arrogant was this!
But after thinking about how their Imperial Advisor was quelled after just a single move by Li Qiye, she didn’t think that Li Qiye was simply blustering! It seemed that Li Qiye was even more terrifying than she had imagined.
In the end, Lu Baiqiu deeply bowed to Li Qiye and then turned around to leave.
“What—?” After the Imperial Advisor’s group came back, the Royal Lord couldn’t help but become enraged after hearing the report as he emotionally said: “Even the Imperial Advisor is not his match!”
“Your Majesty, it is truly shameful, but I have to admit that I couldn’t withstand a single blow. I couldn’t even recognize his background!” The Imperial Advisor quickly responded.
Despite being defeated by just one blow, the Imperial Advisor didn’t dare to bear any resentment. He had experienced many waves and storms, so he knew that there were a few existences in this world that he could not provoke!
“Region Lord Lu, just what is this Li Qiye’s identity?” The Imperial Advisor asked with severity.
Lu Baiqiu shook her head and said: “Your Majesty, I don’t know anything about his background. I only met him by chance, and it was with his advice that I was able to defeat the Mollusk Tribe.”
“Hah, Region Lord Lu, you are so close with that Li fella but you actually don’t know his identity? Who would actually trust your words?” The injured Xuan Shaojun spoke with a strange undertone.
Chapter 394 - Suppressing A King With One Hand
He was quite resentful after being put down at the bottom of the sea by Li Qiye. A genius like him being suppressed by an unknown junior was an extremely shameful matter!
“Such a master… I actually want to personally witness his strength!” The Static Stream Royal Lord’s gaze became fierce as he spoke with austerity. Having said that, divine rings emanated from his body. Without a doubt, the Royal Lord was a powerful Heavenly Sovereign.
“Your Majesty, you shouldn’t!” Lu Baiqiu became aghast after hearing this and quickly spoke: “Brother Li is only here for the mythical island and not to oppose our Static Stream Country…”
“Ah, Region Lord Lu, what do you mean by that?” Xuan Shaojun sneered: “Hurting our disciples and shaming our Imperial Advisor — how is this not opposing our Static Stream Country? His Majesty is invincible, so what can a little junior do? Could it be that Region Lord Lu is on the same side as that Li guy and wants to collude with the enemy…?”
“You—” Lu Baiqiu was angered, but she endured it and tried to persuade the Royal Lord: “Your Majesty, in my opinion, Brother Li is not here to harm our Static Stream Country. Why don’t we take a step back and all shall be well.” Lu Baiqiu trusted that Li Qiye was not joking around. If the country actually provoked him, then he might kill his way into the Static Stream Country.
“Your Majesty, I also feel that Region Lord Lu’s words make a lot of sense. This conflict was due to my rash conduct!” The Imperial Advisor quickly said: “If he was really antagonistic towards us, then he wouldn’t have let us go. In my opinion, he must have a heaven-frightening origin, so there is no need to compete with him and court a powerful enemy!”
“No matter what, I still want to go and see for myself.” The Royal Lord gravely spoke: “A powerful master like this appearing in our country… How could anyone be at ease if we don’t know his identity?”
Lu Baiqiu became quite anxious after hearing the Royal Lord’s words. She didn’t wish to see the country in conflict with Li Qiye because she trusted that Li Qiye was not a person who liked to joke around!
“Bang—bang—” Countless people were alarmed as a battle chariot flew over the Thousand Islands. When the young cultivators of the Thousand Islands saw the several thousand armored soldiers in the sky, they couldn’t help but become wary.
“What happened? The Royal Lord himself is venturing out!” Seeing the Royal Lord riding his dragon chariot, many cultivators turned pale. The Royal Lord was a great Heavenly Sovereign and rarely showed himself outside of huge events.
Thus, it was a big deal for the Royal Lord to travel in person, and it alarmed many spectating cultivators.
In the blink of an eye, thousands of Static Stream experts quickly surrounded the island inhabited by Li Qiye.
Lu Baiqiu’s heart was quite heavy, but she still wanted for her country to negotiate with Li Qiye so she quickly said to the Royal Lord: “Your Majesty, could this disciple invite Brother Li here for a talk?”
“Hah, Region Lord Lu, you are friends with that Li person, so who knows if you will be informing him or not? If that Li person escapes, then will you be able to bear the responsibility? Region Lord Lu, I only want what’s best for you, treason is not a small crime!” Xuan Shaojun alleged.
Lu Baiqiu’s expression greatly changed with anger after being accused by Xuan Shaojun like this; she couldn’t help but coldly say: “You would indeed say just about anything to frame someone!”
“I only want what’s best for Region Lord Lu. If you are devoted to our country, then you should step aside to avoid arousing suspicion.” Xuan Shaojun commented: “Royal Lord, let me go tell that Li guy to come out!”
“Go, ask him to come and see me.” The Royal Lord sat on his dragon carriage with an overbearing sense of nobility. This was not an act of disdain; after all, as an expert who had basked in prestige for a long time, he was indeed qualified to act like this.
Lu Baiqiu gently sighed. It seemed that this storm would not pass by very easily. She did not wish for this feud, but alas, she had absolutely no say in this matter.
After Xuan Shaojun received the order, he appeared above Li Qiye’s island and shouted: “Li, quickly come and greet His Majesty!”
Li Qiye, who was sitting on the small island, only gave a passing glance and, with a poof, Xuan Shaojun didn’t even have the chance to scream before being rendered into a bloody mist under one flick of a finger.
This sudden development jolted the accompanying Static Stream experts. Xuan Shaojun, who was the most promising genius of their Static Stream Country, was killed by someone in this manner.
“Junior, you are insane!” The Royal Lord was appalled as he stood up with his divine rings expanding from his body; there was a total of seven rings!
Amidst his rage, a shadow suddenly flashed as Li Qiye stood right before him. He moved with an extreme speed that could not be followed by anyone else.
“Protect our king!” The Imperial Advisor screamed out in shock.
In an instant, the experts around the Royal Lord all cried out at the same time and many weapons aimed for Li Qiye’s head. There were pagodas, divine blades, and swords crafted from sacrificing one’s blood. They all continuously emitted explosive detonations.
Such an offensive didn’t even make Li Qiye bat his eyelid a single time. He swung his arm downward and, with a loud bang, none of the attacking treasures could stop Li Qiye’s invincible physique and were immediately shattered. The incoming experts’ blood was spilled as they were blown away.
“Watch yourself!” The Static Stream Royal Lord became angry as each divine ring opened up a wave of grand dao, carrying a majestic force that rushed forward.
“You’re just a Little Sovereign without a complete nine rings, yet you still dare to attack me!” Li Qiye was as calm as ever as he exuded an emperor’s power. A Kun Peng flew to the sky and followed Li Qiye step by step. This Primordial Kun Peng leaped and created an enormous tidal wave that was sent towards the Royal Lord.
Kun Peng’s Six Variants — Sea Transformation! When this Primordial Kun Peng flapped its wings, all of the skies became an ocean with gigantic surging waves that were capable of drowning the stars.
“Bang!” Even though the Royal Lord was a Little Sovereign, he couldn’t help but take several thumping steps back under such a sweeping emperor law. The lights in his divine rings suddenly became dim; his blood energy was unstable after this strike from Li Qiye, causing him to turn pale.
Li Qiye was an Ancient Saint with six palaces and nine stars and he also cultivated emperor laws. How could a Little Sovereign like the Static Stream Royal Lord compete with him?
Li Qiye’s gaze turned cold as he emotionlessly spoke: “Continuing to provoke me time and time again… Your ancestors’ face is no longer enough! If I don’t kill you all, then people would really think that I am easily bullied.” 1
Having said this, his five fingers stretched outward as they encompassed the Royal Lord like the heavens itself.
“Brother Li, please wait!” The frightened Lu Baiqiu quickly rushed forward and stood in front of the Royal Lord as she urgently begged: “Brother Li, our Static Stream Country doesn’t have any animosity towards you, it was only a misunderstanding.”
When Lu Baiqiu stood and blocked the front, Li Qiye paused for a moment and looked at Lu Baiqiu. Then, he withdrew his heaven-like fingers before dismissively speaking: “Region Lord Lu, there are times when your face alone is insufficient!”
Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but wryly smile. As a disciple of the Static Stream Country, she couldn’t just stand there and watch Li Qiye massacre its people. She then quickly spoke: “Our Royal Lord only wanted to speak to Brother Li about the lost island. There was a misunderstanding; I hope that Brother Li can forgive us.”
At this time, the Royal Lord had a shocked countenance. He saw the Kun Peng above Li Qiye’s head and took in a deep breath. The emperor aura soaring in the sky caused him to realize that he had kicked a steel wall. Since the person cultivated an emperor law, without a doubt, he was from an Immortal Emperor lineage. Their Static Stream Country could not afford to provoke such a lineage.
“Which emperor’s sect is Fellow Daoist from?” The Royal Lord inquired while shivering inside. He couldn’t do anything but bend down. A Grand Sovereign was far from enough to mess with an Immortal Emperor lineage, let alone a Little Sovereign like him.
Li Qiye glanced at the Royal Lord and said: “Out of respect for Region Lord Lu, I shall let go of this matter this time! You can go and meet me on the island with Region Lord Lu alone!” With that, he turned around and quickly disappeared as he headed towards his island.
Many of the accompanying experts were shocked at Li Qiye’s tone when he addressed the ruler of a country.
“Region Lord Lu, follow me to the island!” The Royal Lord took a deep breath. As a Royal Lord, he couldn’t help but consider himself superior at times. However, he was also an experienced man and knew when to back down!
“Your Majesty!” Many experts were alarmed when they heard that the Royal Lord wanted to go to the island by himself and wished to become the vanguard, but the Royal Lord stopped them with a wave of his hand: “Even if all of you come along, it would only end in even more meaningless deaths. Wait here!”
When a Little Sovereign like him was insufficient, other experts would just be giving up their lives trying to oppose Li Qiye.
After the Royal Lord entered the island, the other experts went into a battle-ready formation. As long as there was any sign from within, they would immediately rush in for the rescue.
Li Qiye was sitting directly on the island. The moment the Royal Lord saw him, he calmed himself and bowed down towards Li Qiye with a slightly submissive attitude and said: “This time, my Static Stream Country only wanted to ask about the matter of the lost island. I didn’t expect for such a misunderstanding to occur, truly unfortunate.”
The Royal Lord was a smart man. All the old cultivators like him were as wily as devils and knew the right time for small sects like them to acquiesce.
In his eyes, Li Qiye came from an Immortal Emperor lineage, a monstrous existence that his country could not afford to deal with. Moreover, Li Qiye’s strength was clearly enough to defeat a Heavenly Sovereign.
This why was the Royal Lord first chose to admit his faults in order to ease the atmosphere between them.
He was quite resentful after being put down at the bottom of the sea by Li Qiye. A genius like him being suppressed by an unknown junior was an extremely shameful matter!
“Such a master… I actually want to personally witness his strength!” The Static Stream Royal Lord’s gaze became fierce as he spoke with austerity. Having said that, divine rings emanated from his body. Without a doubt, the Royal Lord was a powerful Heavenly Sovereign.
“Your Majesty, you shouldn’t!” Lu Baiqiu became aghast after hearing this and quickly spoke: “Brother Li is only here for the mythical island and not to oppose our Static Stream Country…”
“Ah, Region Lord Lu, what do you mean by that?” Xuan Shaojun sneered: “Hurting our disciples and shaming our Imperial Advisor — how is this not opposing our Static Stream Country? His Majesty is invincible, so what can a little junior do? Could it be that Region Lord Lu is on the same side as that Li guy and wants to collude with the enemy…?”
Chapter 395 - Beginning Of The Storm
In fact, the Static Stream Royal Lord did not mean to start a feud with Li Qiye in the beginning; however, as a Royal Lord, he couldn’t help but act a bit imperiously. He didn’t expect for Li Qiye to be so ruthless as to immediately kill someone at the first sign of discord.
The Royal Lord became even more wary towards such a ruthless man since when a person of this type took action, they held no reservations!
Li Qiye looked at the lord and said: “Forget it. You seem like a reasonable person with a sense of propriety, so I won’t make it difficult for you.”
The Royal Lord sighed in relief after hearing these words. He was a bit regretful of listening to Xuan Shaojun’s urging instead of Lu Baiqiu’s advice; otherwise, this troublesome matter wouldn’t have happened.
“This time, I came to inquire about the lost island. I heard Region Lord Lu say that the lost island was found by you, I wonder if you can tell me a thing or two about it?” The Royal Lord quickly said. 1
Li Qiye gently shook his head in response: “The lost island isn’t something your Static Stream Country can handle. Without caution, it will attract a sect-destroying calamity.”
Having heard Li Qiye, the Royal Lord became disappointed, but he didn’t dare to force the issue.
“However…” Li Qiye gave him a look and suddenly had an idea, so he added: “Very well, you can help me with something. Your Static Stream Country does not need to get involved in this affair, and if there is something good in the future, I will give you a bit of the spoils.”
“What kind of something?” The Royal Lord’s mind shook a bit after hearing this. It was naturally a good thing if the Static Stream Country could have a good relationship with an Immortal Emperor lineage.
Although the Static Stream Country was attached to the Thousand Carp River, there were many tributary sects like them in the Distant Cloud region. Moreover, their country was far to the south of the Thousand Carp River, so the sect did not value their country very much. Now, if they could befriend another emperor’s lineage, it would be a beneficial endeavor.
“What you need to do is very simple; spread the news about the lost island, and that an immortal medicine of the island had been unearthed. The miracle of the Legendary Era will come!” Li Qiye said with a smile.
“Unearthed an immortal medicine?” The Royal Lord was astounded after hearing such words.
“Go, there will be benefits for you in the future!” Li Qiye gently motioned with his hand.
The Royal Lord stood up and bowed his head towards Li Qiye, then he turned to leave with Lu Baiqiu. But at this time, Li Qiye spoke: “Region Lord Lu, stay here.”
“Me?” Region Lord Lu was a bit startled as she looked at Li Qiye, then the Royal Lord.
Li Qiye nodded and said: “You are worthy of my grooming. If you are willing to stay, I shall grant you a new fortune in the future.”
Hearing this, the Royal Lord was ecstatic and quickly told Lu Baiqiu: “Region Lord Lu, you can stay behind and be in charge of communications!”
He wanted to befriend Li Qiye. If Lu Baiqiu could join an Immortal Emperor lineage in the future, then it would be absolutely amazing for their Static Stream Country.
Lu Baiqiu looked at the two of them again, then she finally nodded her head to say: “Since Your Majesty says so, I shall stay behind.”
Immediately after, the Royal Lord said a few words to Lu Baiqiu and then left with the others.
After he left, Lu Baiqiu sat to the side of Li Qiye. She took another look at him and couldn’t help but ask: “Which Immortal Emperor lineage is Brother Li from?”
During their first encounter, she thought that Li Qiye was either a vagrant cultivator or someone who came from a small sect, but this was certainly not the case now.
Regarding the speculations of the Royal Lord and Lu Baiqiu, Li Qiye couldn’t refrain from smiling and shook his head: “Is which Immortal Emperor lineage I come from really that important?”
Lu Baiqiu was still curious and started to guess: “There are only two Immortal Emperor lineages that take in humans at the Distant Cloud — the Thousand Carp River and the Simple Mountain Immortal Kingdom. If Brother Li came from the river, then we should have heard of your famous name, so Brother Li must have come from the Simple Mountain Immortal Kingdom…?”
“No to both.” Li Qiye gently shook his head and said: “These things are not important to you. The most pertinent matter is to let go of your restrictions and focus on cultivation; this is the thing that you should do.”
“Brother Li wants to teach me cultivation?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but jokingly ask: “I wonder what creation you will be able to grant me?”
Although Lu Baiqiu was usually stoic, she sometimes couldn’t help but brim with vivacity as a girl.
“That will depend on what you choose.” Li Qiye looked at her and said with a smile: “If you choose to stay by my side, then I will give you quite an excellent creation. If you choose to stay at the Static Stream Country, then I will point you to a particular dao path.”
Li Qiye indeed had thoughts of training Lu Baiqiu. Compared to the girls by his side, Lu Baiqiu’s talents were indeed too ordinary. She could not compare to Li Shuangyan and was even weaker than Chi Xiaodie.
However, Li Qiye fancied her attitude; she was someone with an open mind, someone who was capable, sensible, and a true cultivator.
“Could it be that Brother Li will introduce me to your sect?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but reply with a smile: “Even if I enter your sect, I’m afraid my future accomplishments will not be any better than in the Static Stream Country.”
Coming from an ordinary background, Lu Baiqiu knew herself very well. Her talents could not compare to the other geniuses. If she entered a different sect, then she would have to start from the beginning. Moreover, she would not be greatly valued in a new sect with her aptitude.
Rankings were extremely strict in an Immortal Emperor lineage. If a disciple was not valued, they would not be able to cultivate emperor laws or have access to more resources.
“There is no need for that.” Li Qiye smilingly said: “Right now, I am missing a driver. If you are willing to stay, then you can control my carriage for me.”
“Brother Li, this joke isn’t funny.” Lu Baiqiu was taken aback, then she shook her head to say. Although Lu Baiqiu was someone with a broad mind, such words still made her feel uncomfortable.
Although she knew that she was not a genius, her future in the Static Stream Country was not bad, so she still had confidence in herself. But now, Li Qiye wanted her to be a driver, something no one would want to do. If Lu Baiqiu wasn’t so tolerant, then she would have been stricken with anger thinking that Li Qiye wanted to humiliate her.
Li Qiye looked at her and calmly spoke: “Don’t think that controlling my carriage for me is dishonorable. Not too many people in the Nine Worlds are qualified to control my carriage! If it is someone I don’t like, then even if their talents were better or they came from an amazing background, they still wouldn’t be eligible to be my driver.”
Li Qiye was not bragging. Since ancient times, the moment his carriage appeared, all gods retreated and Immortal Emperors had to welcome him! And his drivers were Virtuous Paragons capable of forming their own countries!
Lu Baiqiu became astounded. Such nonchalant words from Li Qiye carried an indescribable confidence as if it was part of the natural order. If these words came from someone else, then she would have thought that they were nonsensically blustering, but Li Qiye’s speech seemed to dictate that this was how it should be.
After calming down, Lu Baiqiu’s pretty eyes blinked as she smiled: “Even if I am willing to drive for you, do you have a carriage?” Finished speaking, she intentionally looked at Li Qiye as if asking where his carriage was.
Lu Baiqiu was a valiant and straightforward girl. Her slight smile was a refreshing scene and it was indeed a bit charming.
“There will be a carriage.” Li Qiye leisurely said: “Think about it carefully, this opportunity is quite rare.”
Li Qiye’s tone left Lu Baiqiu in deep thought. If other people offered her a driving position and then told her to think about it carefully, she would have thought that they were insane, but Li Qiye’s words caused her to really think it through in silence.
Due to the Static Stream Country deliberately spreading the news, the information about the lost islands quickly traversed the Distant Cloud and then to all the other three regions.
“Lost mythical island? Isn’t it only a legend?” After hearing about the island’s appearance, many cultivators from the great powers were skeptical.
However, the great powers who were close to the Static Stream Country quickly sent scouts and really found the divine island lost inside the mist in the ocean.
Not long later, many great powers confirmed its appearance, and the skeptics began to believe this matter.
In a short amount of time, internal discussions were rampant inside these great powers. Some sects especially convened meetings to discuss the lost island.
“The mythical island is only a legend and no one had ever found it since the start of time, but it suddenly appeared now without any prior indication… This is a bit too strange.” Many great characters wished to wait and see.
A different sect master said: “Rumor has it that this lost island has existed since the Legendary Era, but no one knows what the place actually contains.”
Especially when masters who wanted to cross the sea mist to enter the islands were devoured, many sects adopted a wait-and-see attitude instead.
However, the next message made many people unable to sit still in their chairs. A message with unknown origin suddenly declared that immortal medicines had appeared on the lost island.
Chapter 396 - A Fiance Out Of Nowhere
“Immortal medicines appeared—?” Having heard this news, even great characters could no longer sit still as they immediately inquired about this matter.
In the beginning, many remained skeptical. But later on, someone vowed seeing an immortal light piercing down onto the lost island, and that they heard the cries of dragons and phoenixes.
“The miracle of the Legendary Age is about to appear!” Afterwards, many smaller reports came from all around the Distant Cloud region, and they were getting more and more outrageous.
Some said that a true immortal was about to come into being while others stated that true dragons and immortal phoenixes were descending. There were a few statements regarding the appearance of an immortal potion as well…
These messages were everywhere, including people who swore on their lives that they saw all kinds of strange phenomena out at sea including dragons and immortals…
As these bits of gossip were flying around, many great powers sent their own to watch the lost island.
Just like the rumors, in a short amount of time, many changes happened to the lost island shrouded in mist. Sometimes, strange images would appear, or a golden light would rush out as if an immortal was visiting the mortal realm. Wondrous hymns emanated from the island, but screams were even more common; it was as if the island was a prison of devils from the ancient ages.
“Could it be that this is the sign of the immortal medicine?” Many experts wondered after seeing all these strange images.
All of a sudden, many great powers who initially intended to wait became impatient and planned on entering the lost island, but the experts who attempted to do so were swallowed by the mist and turned into blood. This scene was extremely frightening, causing people’s hair to stand on end.
Although the mist lingered like a beast wanting to devour trespassing cultivators, human hearts remained greedy for the immortal medicine.
Even Lu Baiqiu, who was staying with Li Qiye, had heard all of these things. These were all messages intentionally spread by Li Qiye, but now they had travelled far and people actually confirmed that immortal medicines were there on the lost island.
Since these two were the first to find the lost island and knowing that Li Qiye had intentionally spread these messages, Lu Baiqiu did not believe any of it. But now, these rumors had escalated to the point of becoming truths. This caused Lu Baiqiu to be surprised as she asked Li Qiye: “What is there on the lost island? Are immortal medicines and miracles really descending?”
“What is there on the island you say?” Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile at her question: “There could be immortal medicines, and there could also be miracles.”
“Really?” Lu Baiqiu had to take a calming breath. She assumed that Li Qiye only wished to spread false rumors when he asked their lord to propagate them.
“On this lost island, immortal medicines and miracles are not worth anything compared to the true existence there!” Li Qiye said with a relaxed smile.
Lu Baiqiu shivered after hearing such words. Just what were immortal medicines? These were priceless treasures even for Virtuous Paragons!
To cultivators, although physique pastes could strengthen the flesh, longevity medicines could prolong life, and fate pills could solidify one’s foundation, all of these pills had a limit. For example, once the lifespan of great characters dried up, they could only use a certain amount of longevity medicine before it stopped being effective.
At this time, they must use different divine treasures to prolong their life, and among these things, immortal medicines were the best option. Moreover, these medicines were all-purpose panaceas that were capable of growing new bones and flesh, prolonging life by a thousand years, and solidifying one’s foundation…
Real immortal medicines were priceless treasures craved by all no matter who they were.
After calming down, Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but ask: “Then what is this item that exists on the lost island?” What in the world could make immortal medicines seem like nothing?
“Well…” Li Qiye cheerfully smiled with narrowed eyes and continued: “I’m afraid no one in this world knows. Only after coming onto the lost island will you know just what kinds of things you will find.”
Who would actually be privy to the truth about an immemorial legend? And who could be so sure of what exists there?
Intuition told Lu Baiqiu that Li Qiye must know what it was, but Li Qiye didn’t want to tell her, so she didn’t dare to pry further.
Meanwhile, many people were clamoring about the lost island outside. While they wanted to reach the island, Li Qiye continued staying on his small island without a care for the outside world. He didn’t do anything outside of cultivating.
However, the Static Stream Royal Lord brought someone to see Li Qiye one day. Before they could come, Lu Baiqiu had already informed him: “A protector from the Thousand Carp River wants to see you!”
“A Thousand Carp River’s protector?” Li Qiye opened his eyes after hearing this, but he didn’t pay it any mind. Not long after, the Royal Lord brought an old man onto the small island. The old man was also a Little Sovereign.
“Young Noble Li, this person is Protector Xiao of the Thousand Carp River.” The Royal Lord quickly made introductions. Although this Protector Xiao might not be that much stronger than the Royal Lord, even he who was the ruler of a country was very respectful towards this protector.
It was not unreasonable for the Royal Lord to show this level of respect. Despite being the ruler of a country, there was no good reason for him to put on airs before a Thousand Carp River’s protector.
The Thousand Carp River was one of the two most powerful Immortal Emperor lineages, and it was the only emperor lineage built by the demon race at the hands of Immortal Emperor Qian Li.
Remember that Immortal Emperor Qian Li was one of the last three emperors during the Emperors Era. Immortal Emperor Ta Kong, Immortal Emperor Yin Tian, and Immortal Emperor Qian Li were the last three emperors.
It could be said that in the Sacred Nether World, Immortal Emperor Qian Li was the one closest to the present, thus the Thousand Carp River that was erected by him had plenty of frightening emperor’s power remaining.
The sect’s influence was still great due to having the most recent emperor, so in spite of there being other Ancient Kingdoms more powerful within the Sacred Nether World, even dual emperor kingdoms were quite wary of the Thousand Carp River.
The Static Stream Country was nothing compared to a huge monster like the river sect, not to mention that the country had always been a tributary state. Thus, the Royal Lord being respectful to Protector Xiao was understandable.
“You are that Li Qiye!” Although Protector Xiao was not an ostentatious person, he was still arrogant before Li Qiye. He simply gave him a glance and said slowly.
“That Li Qiye?” Li Qiye lightly smiled. He would remain nonchalant even before a more unfathomable character, let alone a mere protector. He looked at the protector and said: “I’m the only Li Qiye that I know of among the people I’ve met.”
Protector Xiao slowly spoke: “Today, I came here on the orders of the elders in the sect to break up this engagement with you!” At this time, Protector Xiao purposely acted in a very amiable manner, at least, in his eyes. 1
“Engagement? What engagement?” Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile.
As for the Royal Lord and Lu Baiqiu, they naturally became a bit astounded, especially the Royal Lord. When the protector said that he wished to see Li Qiye, he believed that it was about the matter of the lost island, and he was living in anxiety due to this. However, after listening to the contents of this conversation, he couldn’t resist being surprised.
“You obtained a piece of jade at the Soaring Remembrance Village, correct?” Protector Xiao deepened his tone: “This was only caused due to a moment of anger from a little girl. As long as you and Yunzhu dissolve this marriage, our Thousand Carp River will not mistreat you.”
“What—?” Having heard this, the Royal Lord and Lu Baiqiu were instantly shocked, but they immediately shut their mouths.
“Oh, you are talking about that little girl from the Soaring Remembrance Village.” Li Qiye suddenly understood and looked at Protector Xiao, then he replied with a smile: “What does my fiancee, whom I have never met before, have to do with the Thousand Carp River?” Li Qiye initially didn’t care about this marriage arrangement back at the Soaring Remembrance Village. In fact, it was not so easy to become his fiancee.
“Yunzhu is our Thousand Carp River’s descendant!” Protector Xiao said in a serious manner: “Not just anyone can be her match!”
Protector Xiao’s words were obvious enough. Today, he came to end this arrangement. Otherwise, which unknown junior would be worthy of his presence?
Lu Baiqiu and the Royal Lord were astonished as well since Lan Yunzhu, the descendant of the Thousand Carp River, was a legend among the younger generation.
She was a person with dual saint talents! Despite so many geniuses appearing at the Thousand Carp River, she was soon chosen as their descendant. Keep in mind that an Immortal Emperor lineage like the Thousand Carp River would never lack potential candidates for this position, yet someone with a humble background like Lan Yunzhu was chosen as the descendant by the elders at such a young age. This was telling of her talents.
One had to know that not only was Lan Yunzhu talented, she also had an indescribable beauty. Even if she was not the prettiest girl in the Distant Cloud, she was definitely amongst the top five.
Countless young geniuses in the Distant Cloud fell in love with her at first sight and lost their minds for her. Many geniuses from other emperor lineages came to propose, but all were refused.
“Immortal medicines appeared—?” Having heard the news, even great characters could no longer sit still as they immediately inquired about this matter.
In the beginning, many remained skeptical. But later on, someone made a vow about seeing an immortal light piercing down onto the lost island, and that they heard the cries of dragons and phoenixes.
“The miracle of the Legendary Age is about to appear!” Afterward, many smaller reports came from all around the Distant Cloud region, and they were getting more and more outrageous.
Chapter 397 - Breaking The Marriage Arrangement
Lan Yunzhu — the descendant of the Thousand Carp River, a famous genius of the Distant Cloud, and a beauty that captivated the hearts of many young men.
The Static Stream Royal Lord and Liu Baiqiu were dumbfounded since they didn’t expect that Li Qiye was actually Lan Yunzhu’s fiance despite her having so many suitors.
This news was really shocking to the two of them. A girl like Lan Yunzhu was a high and above existence, but now it turns out that she was actually betrothed to a nameless person.
“So what if she is the Thousand Carp River’s descendant?” LI Qiye responded in a lazy manner: “Even fairies from the nine heavens are nothing special.”
Protector Xiao almost vomited blood from anger, but he calmed down in order to successfully cancel this marriage: “Young Friend, today, our Thousand Carp River came with sincerity.” He even lowered his prideful attitude even more: “As long as Young Friend is willing to cancel this marriage, everything will be easily negotiable… Treasures, immortal gifts, the finest of items — our Thousand Carp River can discuss giving you all of these things. And if you want to, you can even join our sect and become a disciple.”
The recruitment for an emperor’s lineage disciple was extremely stringent. Protector Xiao’s rhetoric did show that their sect came with good will.
“Yes, that does indeed show some good faith.” Li Qiye sometimes had a really bad temperament. He was the type who liked soft attitudes, not hard ones. If the opponent was arrogant, then he would be even more aggressive!
Li Qiye then said with a smile: “But to me, sincerity is not just about treasures or immortal gifts. If you really want to cancel this marriage, let her come and tell me in person, then I might think about it. It isn’t a bunch of old men from your Thousand Carp River getting married, so why are you all taking charge of this?”
Of course, this marriage was just an accident to Li Qiye. If the girl really wanted to cancel this engagement, he personally didn’t mind it at all. However, if the Thousand Carp River wished to forcefully cancel it, then he wanted to torture them a bit.
Protector Xiao was very exasperated and really wanted to teach this stinky brat a lesson, but he was still able to hold back.
Li Qiye began losing interest in an old man like Protector Xiao and no longer wished to debate any further. Protector Xiao became angrier and angrier, but he still managed to maintain a friendly tone as he said with seriousness: “You can think about it. This is a great opportunity for you. Let the Static Stream Royal Lord pass on your response once you have figured it out.”
After Protector Xiao left, Li Qiye smiled and murmured: “Immortal Emperor Qian Li’s future generations are actually not bad!”
Despite Protector Xiao still acting arrogantly, in the end, he still didn’t use his background to bully people and forcefully dissolve this marriage. Otherwise, Li Qiye would have been happy to teach these old men a lesson in Immortal Emperor Qian Li’s stead.
“You… Since when did you become Fairy Zhu’s fiance?” After the protector left, Lu Baiqiu asked; she was no longer able to bear her curiosity.
Rumor has it that many people had proposed to Lan Yunzhu, but all of them were rejected, so this fiance appearing out of nowhere was really too sudden.
“I picked up this marriage arrangement on the road.” Li Qiye smiled and said.
Lu Baiqiu was out of words. Lan Yunzhu was one of the prettiest and most powerful goddesses in the Distant Cloud, so how could becoming her fiance be so easy? If one could pick up such a thing by just walking on the road, then countless people would have been walking nonstop!
If Liu Baiqiu knew that this marriage arrangement really was picked up by accident, then she definitely would be even more aghast.
The Thousand Carp River coming to cancel the marriage was only a small matter to Li Qiye. He still stayed on the small island and waited for the right opportunity to enter the lost mythical island.
And during this period of time, the Thousand Islands became busier and busier as more experts from the great powers rushed here. The sky of the islands was filled with flying treasures and huge beasts heading towards the ocean.
Moreover, everyday, the sky of the islands was filled with blood energy. The auras of Heavenly Sovereigns and Heavenly Kings towered in the sky since countless great characters from the big powers had personally come.
Such a grand scene caused the islands’ cultivators to feel nervous for the inevitable storm.
In order to avoid being caught up in this trouble, after the Royal Lord received Li Qiye’s order, he immediately evacuated his disciples and even the residents of the islands.
Especially when one great power after another appeared, the Static Stream Royal Lord became even more cognizant of the eventual storm, so he hurried the evacuation process.
Of course, this evacuation was only temporary. They would come back after the trouble was over.
During this period, constant explosions could be found each day out in the sea. Sometimes, the earth would even shake as huge tidal waves reached the sky itself. At the lost island’s location, dazzling radiance was a common sight. Some emanated from treasures, and some were immortal lights that came from inside the lost island.
“It is not just the Distant Cloud anymore, even great characters from the Misty Field, Nether Border, and Green River have arrived.”
Lu Baiqiu had been keeping contact with the outside and constantly informed Li Qiye. She couldn’t help herself from worrying: “In the last few days, some Jewel Sovereigns have arrived and almost flipped the ocean over. Should we leave this place first?”
“No.” Li Qiye shook his head and then said with a cheerful countenance: “If Jewel Sovereigns have come, then we can go take a look.”
Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu went to the sea once more. Compared to the last visit, the island was a lot more chaotic this time. Many flying treasures were stopped above the ocean with gigantic vessels hovering in the sky along with pavilions and divine mountains…
There were many cultivators, including great characters, who wished to reach the lost mythical island, but some of them were also here just to watch the fun. Some rode strange looking beasts while others were on flying treasures. Some were situated above the sea while there were also those who chose to just stay in the water.
And there were many great changes within the fog-shrouded lost island itself. Its dome had seven-colored rays beaming outward with continuous transformations. Sometimes, they took the form of majestic sceneries, divine beasts, or just disappeared altogether. Magnificent cries emanated from the island along with beastly howls as if there was a fierce creature imprisoned on the island!
Even the mist surrounding the island had changed and turned into a faint crimson mist.
This bloody color was from the remnants of those cultivators who wished to cross the mist. They intended to forcefully enter the island, but were devoured and turned into a bloody mist in just a second, becoming part of this never-dissipating layer.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but narrow his eyes as he gazed at the great changes taking place on the lost island and didn’t speak for a long time.
Now, right outside of the fog, the great powers had started to divide the ocean into their own camps and built small territories on the surface to house their armies.
What was even more impressive was that above the mists, there were great characters with divine rings around them in all cardinal directions. The auras emitted by their bodies caused all the great demonic beasts in the sea to run; they were surely unfathomable characters. Some were Heavenly Sovereigns, some were Heavenly Kings. They were all mighty rulers of their own countries or sects who rarely showed themselves, but all of them appeared right here in the present.
“Nightwalker Sect, Coiling Dragon Country, Sky-Towering Gate…” Looking at the camps from all of these powers, Lu Baiqiu could recognize their insignias and murmured: “So many top level sects are here!”
“Not just great powers, even a few old undyings who didn’t want to come into being are also here right now along with a few ancestors.” At this time, a person suddenly appeared right next to Li Qiye and continued on: “Yesterday, the Ironstone Valley’s ancestor also came. He wanted to force his way into the lost island, but alas, he was instantly rendered into a bloody mist.”
Lan Yunzhu — the descendant of the Thousand Carp River, a famous genius of the Distant Cloud, and a beauty that captivated the hearts of many young men.
The Static Stream Royal Lord and Liu Baiqiu were dumbfounded since they didn’t expect that Li Qiye was actually Lan Yunzhu’s fiance despite her having so many suitors.
This news was really shocking to the two of them. A girl like Lan Yunzhu was a high and above existence, but now it turns out that she was actually betrothed to a nameless person.
“So what if she is the Thousand Carp River’s descendant?” LI Qiye responded in a lazy manner: “Even fairies from the nine heavens are nothing special compared to others.”
Chapter 398 - Daoist Heaven Calculating
The person that appeared out of nowhere was a young man around the age of twenty. He wore a daoist robe while holding a fan with the word “Calculate” on it.
He was adorned with a daoist crown and showed an experienced demeanor. Moreover, his face wore a mysterious smile as if he was hiding many secrets.
This man suddenly coming around with a very familiar expression caused Lu Baiqiu to look at Li Qiye. She thought that this young man was his friend.
“I am Daoist Heaven Calculating, my words of steel can end life and predict the future!”
This young daoist smiled to greet Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu, then he continued on with a seasoned look: “I am here because of fate and meeting Fellow Daoists is its working. Do you two want to have your fortune read?”
Although Daoist Heaven Calculating assumed a veteran and proper appearance, his age betrayed him. Especially when he asked if Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu wanted their fortune read, he gave off the air of a charlatan.
“We don’t need any divination.” Lu Baiqiu shook her head and said: “A cultivator aims to defy the heavens and change their own fate, so why the need for divination?”
Lu Baiqiu’s words were already quite polite. For others, upon seeing a trickster like this, they would have chased him away much earlier.
“Miss is a bit mistaken. I can see through the past, present, and the future. If you can see your future fate, then all the dangers in your future cultivation path will become harmless.” Daoist Heaven Calculating quickly solicited his business: “I can calculate the heavens above and the gods below, see through the past across the ages…”
In order to drum up his business, this daoist spewed out a deluge of heavenly flowers as if he could actually back up his words. 1
Lu Baiqiu didn’t say anything and ignored the daoist. Only Li Qiye smiled at him and said: “Are you really so amazing? Someone capable of calculating even the heavens and the gods?”
“If you don’t believe me, then let me read your fortune. If you think it is not accurate, then I won’t take any payment.” Daoist Heaven Calculating quickly answered.
Li Qiye put on a very interested appearance which confused Lu Baiqiu. A glance was sufficient to tell that this Daoist Heaven Calculating was a charlatan, so why would Li Qiye suddenly believe him?
“Okay, then go ahead and read my fortune.” Li Qiye spread out his palm with a wide smile while looking at Daoist Heaven Calculating.
“Very well!” The daoist was ecstatic to see a customer and immediately looked at Li Qiye’s palm. At the start, the daoist was pretty relaxed, but as time went on, he became more serious as he stared at Li Qiye’s palm lines with a focused glimmer in his eyes as if he wanted to see through everything.
“Oh mother!” Right when he utilized his magical technique, he suddenly turned pale as if he was bitten by a poisonous serpent and had to take several steps back!
After retreating, the pale daoist stared at Li Qiye as if he was seeing a ghost. Lu Baiqiu did not expect his reaction; it was only palm reading, must he exaggerate so much?
“Gods, ancestors, please protect me!” The frightened daoist regained his sanity and quickly turned around to escape. However, he only managed several steps before Li Qiye grabbed him by his collar and pulled him back.
“Big Boss, I am only a little nobody trying to survive in this world.” The daoist quickly begged: “Big Boss is a great and benevolent character, so you shouldn’t bother with a little guy like me.”
The daoist suddenly begging for mercy caught Lu Baiqiu off guard. She was good-hearted so she appealed in a low tone: “He didn’t mean much harm, just let him go.”
In her eyes, Daoist Heaven Calculating was only a common charlatan that fooled common folks. Even though these swindlers were annoying, she was too lazy to make it difficult for such characters.
Li Qiye shook his head and cheerfully spoke to Daoist Heaven Calculating: “What are you in a rush for? I won’t eat you. Look at your panicked appearance, do I look like a beast to you or something?”
However, Li Qiye was even scarier than a beast in the eyes of Daoist Heaven Calculating. With a blanched expression, he shook his head as if he was beating a drum and quickly begged for mercy: “This insignificant me displayed my slight skill before an expert; I’m only trying to get by and did not know the immensity of the heaven and earth. Please be benevolent and forgive this pitiful one.”
“Well, stop talking!” Li Qiye let the daoist go and laughed: “I actually have something for you to calculate.”
Li Qiye’s demand left the daoist aghast as he quickly dodged: “Boss, I am a nobody without any skills. I only eat and sleep, so how could I calculate Boss’ great matters?”
“Is that so?” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes to gaze at the daoist before saying: “If you can’t calculate it, then I shall destroy your bones. What do you think about that?”
Having heard this, the daoist became despondent like a deflated ball as he patted his head and helplessly said: “I will try my best if Boss wishes so.”
Lu Baiqiu found the whole thing quite strange with Li Qiye wanting to make it difficult for a trickster.
Li Qiye drew something down on a piece of paper and handed it to Daoist Heaven Calculating as he cheerfully said: “Divine this and tell me the answer. And don’t even think about running or I’ll destroy your nest!”
The daoist looked at the item on the paper and had a bitter look on his face. His appearance was even more bitter than eating yellow lotuses as he dejectedly hung his head downward.
“Well, Boss, since you believe in this little one so much, then I will calculate and tell you once I have some results!” The daoist then put the piece of paper away and quickly answered Li Qiye.
“Go.” Li Qiye gently waved his hand. This word was like the sound of salvation to the daoist as he quickly escaped, not daring to linger for a half second longer. It was as if Li Qiye was a plague.
After the daoist left, Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but look strangely at Li Qiye.
“He is not a charlatan.” Li Qiye leisurely answered her curiosity: “He is a natural diviner from the Heart-ghost Tribe.”
“Heart-ghost Tribe!” Lu Baiqiu murmured in shock: “A fabled ghost diviner from the legends!”
It was said that the Heart-ghost Tribe was a very mysterious tribe. They were born with a heart mirror that could read the mind; they were capable of calculating disasters and the future, so countless great characters in the Sacred Nether World searched for them.
“Why does he not have a heart mirror?” After regaining her wits, Lu Baiqiu asked.
Li Qiye replied with a smile: “Not all Heart-ghosts have a heart mirror from the moment they were born. And having one doesn’t necessarily mean that they can predict the future.”
She also wanted to ask why the daoist ran away in fear as if he had seen a ghost after reading Li Qiye’s palm.
“Oooo!” At this time, a dragon’s roar radiated throughout the vast sea. A golden dragon soared above the mythical island and disappeared in its deepest location.
“Is that the mythical Golden Dragon?” Even though it was just a passing scene, this shocked many people in this part of the ocean.
A real mythical beast had always been part of legends — no one had actually seen them. Today, all of them saw a Golden Dragon flying in the sky, and this was too astonishing.
“Could there really be immortal medicines? It is said that immortal medicines are naturally guarded by mythical beasts!” At this time, even a few great characters waiting right outside the mist became quite impatient.
In just a short moment, there was an upheaval above the ocean as many people wished that they could reach the island in order to find these mythical immortal medicines.
“Open!” Finally, a great character standing right outside of the mist became impatient and exuded a divine light. He roared with a vigor capable of destroying a star.
“Boom!” After his attack, a clear pathway penetrated the fog, revealing a visible vacuum. This great character was indeed amazing and was absolutely of the ancestor level. He could easily pluck the stars and moon in the sky.
At this moment, unrivalled treasures emerged all around this ancestor’s body. He then turned into a Flood Dragon and used an incalculable speed to rush into the vacuum space he created in order to reach the lost island.
Many held their breath while watching this ancestor. Earlier, an ancestor had already died in the mist, so everyone wanted to see someone capable of creating a miracle right now.
“Pfuff!” However, the moment the ancestor stepped into the vacuous space in the mist, no matter how many treasures were protecting his body or how strong his own power was, he was instantly annihilated as his body turned into a bloody mist without being given even a chance to scream.
Such a terrible scene sent terror through all the spectators and stopped all of those who wanted to reach the island on the spot!
Lu Baiqiu lost her mind from fear as cold sweat drenched her palms. She also wanted to rush into the island during the initial discovery, but fortunately, Li Qiye stopped her. Otherwise, her result would have been the same as this ancestor just now.
Even a powerful ancestor like this was instantly turned into a bloody mist, so her fate would be needless to say.
The bloody mist that was once the ancestor slowly integrated itself into the mist, causing the whole entity to become even more crimson. The current crimson mist in the sea became even more demonic, causing people’s hair to stand on end.
“We shall go back now, the time is not yet ripe.” Li Qiye gently shook his head and turned around. He must wait even longer before crossing this mist!
Chapter 399 - Pressure From The Thousand Carp River
After Li Qiye returned to his small island, the Static Stream Royal Lord was already waiting there.
“Young Noble Li, the Thousand Carp River asked me to inquire about whether you have thought about it or not.” The Royal Lord was in a bit of a dilemma after being sandwiched by Li Qiye and the Thousand Carp River. Needless to say, the burden of this hard work fell on his shoulders.
“It seems that the Thousand Carp River is very worried.” Li Qiye said with a smile.
The Static Stream Country felt quite helpless inside. How could the Thousand Carp River not be in a rush? Lan Yunzhu was their descendant that had been groomed with countless efforts. It would be strange if the sect didn’t go insane at the prospect of her marrying an outsider.
The Royal Lord then quickly took out a tray with many different pills laid on top that exuded a pleasing medicinal fragrance, causing others to relax.
“Young Noble Li, this is a small token from the Thousand Carp River. The sect hopes that you can quickly make a decision.” The Royal Lord placed the small tray in front of Li Qiye.
“Five Transformation Fate Pills!” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Oh? The Thousand Carp River wants to serenade me first? But these are only Five Transformation Fate Pills, they are still a bit lacking.”
“The Thousand Carp River didn’t say that these pills would be enough, they only wished for both sides to have a good start. This is only a small token.” The Royal Lord quickly tried to smooth things over.
Li Qiye didn’t care to look any further and casually handed the pills to Lu Baiqiu on the side and lightly said: “You can keep them for your own use.”
Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but become lost in a daze. Five Transformation Fate Pills were not something a Region Lord and someone who had only stepped into the Royal Noble realm like her could enjoy. They were extremely precious since they were pills for Ancient Saints; obviously, they also had great benefits for Royal Nobles.
Even the elders inside the Static Stream Country that wanted a Five Transformation Fate Pill would not find it easy to obtain one. However, these pills were akin to garbage in Li Qiye’s mind. As he gave them to her, he didn’t even bother to look at them. Such a style was not something a small country like the Static Stream could compare to.
The Static Stream Royal Lord wryly smiled and thought that people from emperor’s lineages were indeed not the same as the disciples from ordinary great powers. Such extravagance of not even caring for Five Transformation Fate Pills!
“When does Young Noble Li plan on going to the Thousand Carp River?” The Royal Lord quickly asked. It was not easy for him being in the middle of Li Qiye and the sect.
“If the river truly wants to cancel this marriage, then let Lan Yunzhu personally tell me. A bunch of old men does not need to worry about this!” Li Qiye didn’t pay it any mind as he said with a smile.
The Royal Lord wanted to cry, but no tears would come out. He had no way of reporting such an answer. Li Qiye was really a bit too overbearing. The elders from the river were all great characters who could shake a domain with a single stomp of their foot. Very few people of the younger generation dared to disrespect them, but Li Qiye didn’t care for the elders at all. Maybe this was the boldness of a disciple from an emperor’s lineage.
The Royal Lord wanted to leave, but he hesitated a few times as if he wanted to say something. He ended up stopping two or three times.
“If Royal Lord has something to say, go ahead and say it.” Li Qiye noticed this and saved him from this difficult state.
After some hesitation, the Royal Lord still spoke in the end: “Young Noble should really give them an answer soon. I heard people over there say that although the river wants to resolve this matter in a friendly manner, there are also those who wish to use a more high-handed approach.”
“A high-handed approach?” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and grinned, revealing his teeth that were as white as snow.
The Static Stream Royal Lord said with a wry smile: “Young Noble already knows, but it is not easy for the river sect to train a descendant. Its inner power has quite a few people who wish for Fairy Zhu to find a companion from the sect itself instead of an outsider.”
“Don’t let one’s own fertile water flow into others’ fields.” Li Qiye could understand this matter. In fact, this was the traditional practice of many great powers.
“I heard several high elders from the sect were very adamant about this.” The Royal Lord reminded Li Qiye.
To the Royal Lord, regardless of the result of this marriage between Li Qiye and Lan Yunzhu, he was just hoping that this would end soon. Being stuck between the two of them was a very painful thing. If this went on any longer, it would be even more difficult for him.
“Adamant?” Li Qiye rubbed his chin and smiled: “I actually like the rough ways of doing things. Very well, if the river wants me to end this soon, then I’ll go visit them.”
“Visit the Thousand Carp River?” Having heard this, the Royal Lord was startled with a changed expression.
Li Qiye’s words were not very friendly at all in the ears of the listeners. It was as if he wished to release his anger upon the sect.
“Don’t worry, I have always been a peace-loving person. If the sect is willing to negotiate, then I’ll go and speak to them in a nice manner.” Li Qiye gave a devilish smile.
Lu Baiqiu and the Royal Lord couldn’t help but glance at each other. The sky would fall before they trusted his words. Just one unfriendly exchange of words and he immediately killed someone… If he was a peace-loving person, then everyone in this world would be accomplished monks.
“Does Young Noble actually want to go to the Thousand Carp River?” The Royal Lord said with a bitter expression: “If you choose not to have a friendly settlement, then it would be the same as walking into a tiger’s den.”
Of course, he was not actually worried about Li Qiye’s safety. However, he didn’t want this thing to escalate beyond control. If his Static Stream Country became involved, then he wouldn’t be able to escape unscathed!
“Tiger’s den?” Li Qiye responded with a smile: “I am one without too many hobbies, but one of them is that when I know there is a tiger on the mountain, I love to go towards it.”
The Royal Lord’s pain could be seen from his expression. If he knew that Li Qiye would do such a thing, he wouldn’t have said anything even if he was beaten to death. Look at the situation now! Not only did he fail to persuade Li Qiye, he actually caused Li Qiye to go to the Thousand Carp River.
But then he thought about it more carefully. If Li Qiye actually went to the river sect, it might not be a bad thing for their country. In the end, their country being stuck between the two truly was an awkward state.
“Baiqiu, do you want to go with me?” Li Qiye was the type who immediately took action after making a decision, so he spoke to Lu Baiqiu. “Of course, if you don’t want to, I won’t force you.”
Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but look at the Royal Lord. After some hesitation, the Royal Lord finally gave up with a wry smile and sighed: “Region Lord Lu can decide for yourself.”
No one would know whether the trip would end in good fortune or a disaster, so the Royal Lord let Lu Baiqiu decide her own fate.
After pausing for a bit, Lu Baiqiu finally answered Li Qiye: “I’ll go with you!”
The Royal Lord gently sighed and left without saying anything.
After he left, Lu Baiqiu immediately asked: “Are we going to the river sect right now?”
Although she was not mentally prepared to face the storm since the result of this trip was unknown, this might be a good chance to broaden her horizons. In the end, the Thousand Islands was too small.
“If you don’t have any arrangements to make, then we will go now.” Li Qiye said: “I’m actually looking forward to this trip!” He couldn’t help but smile at this point. The Thousand Carp River was a location worth remembering.
“What about the lost mythical island?” Lu Baiqiu asked since she knew that Li Qiye came here for the island.
Li Qiye gently shook his head and said: “It is not so easy to land on the island. We can take our time and wait until there are enough people here. That will be when an opportunity arises!”
As long as enough blood was shed and enough lives were taken, there would be a chance to go to the lost island.
Of course, Li Qiye wouldn’t say these words out loud.
Lu Baiqiu didn’t have to make any arrangements, so she went with him to the Thousand Carp River.
In fact, the Static Stream Country was very far from the Thousand Carp River. Of course, it was not an issue for Li Qiye; it didn’t take long before he got there.
The Thousand Carp River was an emperor’s lineage erected by Immortal Emperor Qian Li, and he used the river as its name. As an emperor’s lineage, they had control of the majority of the land on the two banks of the river.
And even if they didn’t have direct control, many countries and sects on the two banks were subordinated to the sect.
Its power and influence were both great. As the most recent Immortal Emperor of the Sacred Nether World, Immortal Emperor Qian Li’s prestige remained strong.
Despite being named after the river, the sect’s ancestral ground was not built at the source of the river. Instead, it was built at the largest lake at the center of the river, the Thousand Carp Lake.
When standing on top of the Thousand Carp Lake, no one would think that it was a lake since it looked more like an ocean! It was not strange to have such a feeling since, as the largest lake of the Sacred Nether World, it was extremely vast. The lake’s surface had majestic waves, just like a mighty ocean.
There were many legends about the Thousand Carp Lake along with many hidden secrets. The Distant Cloud to the south had tales about how Immortal Emperor Qian Li came from this lake! Because of this origin, the emperor had the title Qian Li; he even created the sect and placing the sect’s emperor foundation right below this river. 1
Of course, these were just anecdotes and no one knew the truth. The secrets hidden within the lake were just like the emperor — shrouded in mysteries.
While standing above the lake, anyone could feel the moisture and spirit energy combine together to rush to their faces. It was as if the lake was a cornucopia of gathered worldly energy.
After Li Qiye returned to his small island, the Static Stream Royal Lord was already waiting there.
“Young Noble Li, the Thousand Carp River asked me to inquire about whether you have thought about it or not.” The Royal Lord was in a bit of a dilemma after being sandwiched by Li Qiye and the Thousand Carp River. Needless to say, the burden of this hard work fell on his shoulders.
“It seems that the Thousand Carp River is very worried.” Li Qiye said with a smile.
The Static Stream Country felt quite helpless inside. How could the Thousand Carp River not be in a rush? Lan Yunzhu was their descendant that had been groomed with countless efforts. It would be strange if the sect didn’t go insane at the prospect of her marrying an outsider.
Chapter 400 - Finding The Fiancee
Li Qiye brought Lu Baiqiu next to the lake and could see the blue surging waves smashing into the bank. Looking around further, one could see many islands in the lake, creating a beautiful green scenery that had many magnificent buildings and mighty bridges…
Many pavilions stood close to each other on these islands with ancient temples floating above the sky. There were even pagodas down below the surface of the lake, emanating formation array beams. Then, there were ships as big as islands entering the sky above the river. Amazing bridges connected these islands along with ancient tree trunks…
The center of the lake was even more auspicious with a faint shrouding energy as if it was covered by a veil. It was extremely mysterious and caused others to want to go inside to see everything.
However, the even more eye-opening aspect was not the landscape, but the demons entering and leaving this area. Many great demons were on patrol across the lake. Some had a human’s head with a snake’s body, then there were fish-men and turtle demons carrying thick shells.
There were many demons living in the Thousand Carp River. It was the sect made of humans and demons, the most powerful symbol of these two races in the Sacred Nether World!
Inside the river and amidst the deep grooves, sometimes there were dragon-like hymns as a Flood Dragon would appear in the lake, creating terrifying tidal waves.
“Is that a True Dragon?” The sound of the splashing water as a Flood Dragon jumped up then immediately dove back down to the lake incited Lu Baiqiu’s question.
“It is only a Flood Dragon. Its bloodline is not even close to that of a True Dragon.” Li Qiye answered with a smile.
Further in the horizon, one could see a type of phoenix-fish swimming in schools together. The moment they jumped out from the lake’s surface, they were like a group of phoenixes flying in the sky with immortal lights covering the atmosphere, illuminating the lake.
On each of the boulders beneath the lake, there were turtles sleeping and absorbing worldly energy with an origin core in their mouth. Although these turtles had not reached the dao, they had already obtained an amazing creation from this world.
There were also monstrous crabs who were blowing out bubbles. Once these bubbles fell to the ground, they turned into jewels that some disciples immediately collected.
Divine birds were nesting on the cliffs of these islands. They used precious grasses to build their nests, so despite lying in their nests, they still lit up the whole island with a five-colored radiance.
Lu Baiqiu was astonished as she took in all of these rich scenes from the Thousand Carp Lake. She was just like an older wet nurse, visiting the house of a great official for the first time. Despite regularly seeing the ocean at the Thousand Islands, it was not as beautiful as the Thousand Carp Lake since it didn’t have so many miraculous scenes!
There were also demons in the Thousand Islands, but they were far from being as amazing as those found here.
In fact, this was not strange at all. Many powerful experts of the river sect all came from the lake. This lake was a treasure ground, so many existences that grew here could eventually reach attainment and become a demon.
After these creatures obtained their own sentience, they had the chance to join the Thousand Carp River and become a disciple. Moreover, these demons had a great advantage because they grew up inside the lake and accepted the grooming from this treasure ground, so their future path was very optimistic. One could say that more than half of the upper echelon of the Thousand Carp River were creatures from the lake that had turned into demons.
Because of this, many people in the Sacred Nether World believed that the Thousand Carp Lake was an unfathomable treasure ground. There were even amazing characters who believed that there was a supreme treasure hidden beneath the lake.
Standing above the lake caused Li Qiye to have many feelings. Such a familiar feeling… This boundless spirit energy from the river caused him to drown in memories.
Before such a wondrous scene, who would know that in the past, this lake did not have such an appearance? Who would know that before the river sect was established here, no one would have thought that this place was a treasure ground!
While the two of them spectated the area by the lake, a small patrol boat came by. Standing on the small boat was a shrimp demon with a human head and a shrimp body, wielding a pitchfork. He came closer and asked Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu: “Do Fellow Daoists only wish to sightsee, or do you want to enter the sect?”
To the sect, the lake produced many wondrous treasures and this would lead to countless cultivators’ greed. Thus, once outsiders came close to the lake, it would immediately lead to questioning from the patrolling disciples.
“Go tell your elders that your sect’s son-in-law is here to visit his maternal family.” Li Qiye said with a wide smile.
His words caused this shrimp demon’s expression to greatly change as it spoke with a grave tone: “Fellow Daoist, one can eat many things carelessly, but one cannot say careless words or else they might cause trouble for themselves.”
Lu Baiqiu was very kind, so she told the demon in a low voice: “This person is the fiance of Fairy Zhu. He came here to see the elders of the sect.” She indeed had good intentions and didn’t want to see this shrimp demon offend Li Qiye; that would lead to a disaster!
This shrimp demon was distraught as he stared at Li Qiye in disbelief. There was only one person referred as Fairy Zhu in their sect, and it was their young lord, Lan Yunzhu!
It gazed at this ordinary-looking fella before it. Their princess was the prettiest in the southern Distant Cloud, someone who was adored and courted by countless descendants from the great powers. Even just within their sect, many geniuses had a crush on her, but no matter how amazing these geniuses were, none of them had earned their princess’ favor.
Now, a fiance suddenly appeared. Moreover, no matter from which angle one looked at it, this person looked ordinary! Ordinary appearance, ordinary temperament, and ordinary cultivation!
The shrimp demon didn’t dare to make a decision on its own regarding such a matter. It took a big breath and immediately said: “Wait here, I will immediately go and report this!” Having said that, it galloped away and quickly disappeared in the mist.
After it left, Li Qiye looked at Lu Baiqiu and revealed a gentle smile: “It seems that you really have a kind heart ah!”
Lu Baiqiu wryly smiled and said in a low voice: “We don’t necessarily have to mess with the river sect till the point of an irreconcilable feud, right? If everyone just takes a step back, then we can all enjoy the boundless open vistas.”
Of course, Lu Baiqiu was different from Li Qiye. She ultimately had a humble background, plus the Static Stream Country was only a second-rate sect. She didn’t have the power to oppose a huge monster like the Thousand Carp River.
“Take a step back?” Li Qiye softly smiled and shook his head to say: “That is not up to me, but up to them. If they wish to oppose me, then there is no need to take a step back!”
Lu Baiqiu could only secretly sigh. Although she hadn’t followed Li Qiye for a long time, she had a little understanding of Li Qiye’s personality. He only liked soft and not-hard attitudes.
The shrimp demon didn’t dare to hide the matter and immediately reported Li Qiye’s arrival. This very quickly came to the elders’ attention.
In fact, through the course of the report, many hall masters and protectors were also surprised at this news. Lan Yunzhu’s fiance? Their first impression was that this was impossible!
Lan Yunzhu was their Thousand Carp River’s proud daughter — their princess. Even descendants from emperor’s lineages were not worthy of her, so how could there be a fiance out of nowhere?
Nevertheless, this was a serious matter. Although some hall masters didn’t believe this news, they still reported it to their superiors.
“A bit courageous ah, actually coming to our door in person.” After hearing this news, an elder immediately convened a meeting, resulting in another elder’s resentment.
An optimistic elder who wanted to resolve this marriage in a friendly manner said: “Maybe this Li Qiye came to break off the engagement. If he is a cultivator of the southern Distant Cloud, then he should know better and know the immensity of the heaven and earth.”
“Nothing would be better than him willingly canceling this marriage. I hope he knows what’s best for him. Hmph, if he came here to bargain, then all of his plans would be for naught.” Another elder stated.
An even more emotional elder declared: “Why must our Thousand Carp River negotiate with a nobody like this little brat? No matter if he is willing or not, we have to cancel this marriage! Give him something good and chase him away. Hmph, if he doesn’t know any better, then just capture him!”
“We shouldn’t break the friendly discourse so quickly.” The Thousand Carp River’s sect master, Daoist Bao Gui, shook his head and slowly said while sitting in his chair: “We have to discuss this with Yunzhu first, to see what she thinks about this.” 1
“Sect Master, Yunzhu is our Thousand Carp River’s seed and descendant, we cannot marry her off to an outsider!” An elder immediately expressed.
Another elder added: “Yes, Senior Brother, Yunzhu is our sect’s hope of reaching the Heaven’s Will in this generation. She has a big chance of becoming our sect’s second Immortal Emperor ah! Plus, even if Yunzhu has to start a family, it cannot be with a nobody. At the very least, it has to be a descendant of an emperor’s lineage!”
Daoist Bao Gui gently shook his head with a smile and said: “No matter what, we have to hear Yunzhu’s opinion first. It is not like you guys don’t know this girl’s personality. Moreover, maybe the fella came with good intentions so there is no need to start with force from the outset.”
“Hmph, to a nobody like this, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a carp crossing the dragon gate, how could he give up such an opportunity!” An elder who was already antagonistic towards Li Qiye exclaimed! In the end, Lan Yunzhu was their sect’s biggest chance of grooming an Immortal Emperor in this generation!
“First, we must accommodate our guest and ask Lan Yunzhu before making any decisions.” Daoist Bao Gui smiled: “Our sect is an honorable sect, not one that would go back on its words. He is a guest, so let the disciples treat him like an honored guest without any delay!”
Although some elders disagreed with this, since the sect master had decided, the other members didn’t say anything else.
“Boom!” With a deafening noise, the ancient rune immediately became stretched as the runes on the Pillar of Life entered it in order to solve the profound mysteries contained within. This scene resembled that of the opening of an ancient treasure.
With this, the pillar became even brighter, and it even underwent an incredible change. Not long later, due to being channeled by the pillar, the rune became a profound truth and disappeared inside the pillar as all of its mystical meanings were absorbed.
After the successful absorption, Li Qiye’s body suddenly vibrated as he felt an inexpressibly wonderful feeling!
Eventually, he took a deep breath and smiled. This feeling was great since he understood the Void Gate even more at this moment!
Mei Suyao watched as Li Qiye sucked the ancient rune into his Fate Palace. She could only gently sigh; one wrong move lost her the entire match.
However, Mei Suyao was still a peerless individual so she smiled and congratulated Li Qiye: “Congratulation, Brother Li. You are the first to obtain the three young leaves from the World Tree, and you even obtained the ancient rune from the Void Gate. This time, you have gotten creations far beyond that of what Immortal Emperor Hao Hai found.”
Li Qiye laughed and then stared at Mei Suyao in an imposing manner: “Now, how should I deal with you? Ruthlessly pluck the flower?”
At this point, his eyes narrowed as he said in a serious manner: “But to you, dying is not the worst fate. How about I strip off your clothes? Or maybe I should eat you, then imprison your True Fate and confine your body? Maybe this would be the most terrible thing for you.”
Mei Suyao’s expression slightly changed, but her sacred and noble grace remained. An immortal light encompassed Mei Suyao as if she was a transcendent goddess from the heavens; no one would dare to taint her.
She then slowly said: “Brother Li is a hero of the contemporary times, the exemplar of our generation. I’m sure you would be opposed to doing something so vulgar?”
The calm voice carried a mysterious rhythm. Although she was confined by Li Qiye at this moment, her aura prevented others from having dirty and disrespectful thoughts towards her. Only thoughts of reverence would remain.
“Little Girl, you really don’t know life from death!” Li Qiye focused his gaze as it became extremely frightening. In the blink of an eye, Li Qiye’s True Fate floated up and down as if it was about to open an ancient portal that would extend to everlastingness.
He had completely changed. He now showed a pair of eyes that gave the impression that he would devour the nine heavens and ten earths. Before his eyes, all in this world became trivial; the heaven and earth was meaningless and all existences were mere dogs!
Before his eyes, everything changed. There was no longer a distinction between beautiful and ugly nor rich and poor. What was considered sacred and pure all became smoke dissipating in the sky.
Mei Suyao was horrified. She was not only smart but also someone amazing in this generation. In this instant, she understood what was considered to be real danger, ferocity, arrogance, and cruelty. All the prodigies, geniuses, brutes — all were trivial before Li Qiye’s sudden change of persona.
She felt that she was stripped naked to her bare jade-like body. And it was not just her body, she even felt that her True Fate and soul were laid bare before his eyes.
Right now, a goddess, a heaven’s proud daughter like Mei Suyao became a lamb that was helpless in the face of slaughter, and Li Qiye was the most terrifying butcher this world had seen across the ages.
His gaze could devour all things in this domain. Right now, he was the heavens. He indifferently and emotionlessly said: “Girl, you are still so naive. You still want to use the Alaya Dao to influence me at this moment?”
“You want to become sacred so that others would not dare to taint you, but you cannot affect me. Instead, you are simply asking for trouble.”
“Today, I’ll let you have a taste of fear!” Li Qiye spoke like a ruler from the heavens above as his hands reached into her dress.
“Don’t—” Mei Suyao shouted out in shock. Despite all of her peerless qualities, she was unable to stop Li Qiye’s approach.
Li Qiye’s large hands grabbed her twin peaks and carefully played with them as Mei Suyao quivered. She closed off her mind and tried to retain her firm heart, but Li Qiye’s devilish eyes seemed to be imprisoning her soul and mind!
Under the caress of his untiring hands, the beautiful pair of breasts felt as supreme as Mei Suyao’s appearance. A bit more was too large, but a bit less was too small. The breasts that were being caressed by Li Qiye’s hands were the most perfect masterpiece in this world; they would garner countless gasps of admiration!
At this moment, Mei Suyao was frightened with a strange feeling. As a venerated goddess, no one had dared to even come close to her, let alone touch her in such a licentious manner.
As the representative of the Eternal River School, her dao heart was as firm as a stone. Worldly feelings, such as the seven emotions and six desires, could not affect Mei Suyao. The mundane world was like a river flowing by a talc stone; her heart would not be tainted in the slightest.
But at this time, her heart was filled with turbulent waves; her True Fate was imprisoned and her heart had fallen. In this moment, the seven emotions and six desires were affecting her dao heart.
After playing with them carefully, Li Qiye’s hands slid further down which made Mei Suyao’s heart quiver with ripples. A strange and numbing feeling caused her mind to flutter.
“No!” Mei Suyao screamed in a panic. This was the biggest crisis she had ever faced in her life. Death was nothing to her; instead, having her dao heart struck down by Li Qiye would be the worst possible outcome!
The always sacred and transcending Mei Suyao, at this moment, appeared to be quite delicate and pitifully lovable.
While she was lost in horror, Li Qiye withdrew his hands. He then patted his hands together with a disinterested expression. Then, he fixed Mei Suyao’s dress together for her and casually released her from the imprisonment.
The horrified Mei Suyao suddenly became lost in a daze for a long time. Li Qiye imprisoned her True Fate so if he kept on attacking, her dao heart would not be able to hold out as she descended into debauchery. However, Li Qiye’s sudden retreat left her confused for she couldn’t see through him.
“Don’t stand there in a trance. I am not someone who shows mercy to women, especially enemies.” Li Qiye casually spoke: “I’m not taking you because I was just bored of the dry task. If I wanted women, then even if they were the fairies of the nine heavens, I could still make them submit and hurl their bodies into my embrace! Even though I don’t mind forcefully taking someone, but you? You are not at the level that would force me to do so. If I take you forcefully, then that would drop my fine taste by several grades…”
Li Qiye’s words almost caused Mei Suyao to vomit blood. She didn’t know whether this anger stemmed from embarrassment or shame because there were countless overwhelming feelings running rampant in her heart.
“Little Girl, I have a lot of different methods to employ if I wanted to take you in. I can make you willingly stay by my side as a maid so there is no need for force.” Li Qiye leisurely said: “However, I don’t have such a twisted hobby. Instead, I am someone with fine taste. Forcefully taking you would only be a smear on my record. Then, in this case, wouldn’t I be the victim here?”
In the end, Mei Suyao could only bitterly smile. No matter how pure and transcendent she was, it was impossible for her to remain calm. She didn’t care about external appearances, but she was still extremely confident in her beauty and charm.
With her rare features and temperament, she was absolutely an unparalleled genius in the contemporary times. It was not a stretch to call her the number one beauty in the Eastern Hundred Cities.
Countless people adored her, and countless geniuses did not mind traversing millions of miles just to follow her.
To them, just to see her smile would be the biggest harvest of their lives.
However, Li Qiye’s words had twisted it all around. After taking advantage of her, he actually said that he was the victim. Was there any justice in this world?
“Don’t feel so indignant.” Li Qiye glanced at her and said: “It is not easy for the Eternal River School to train an inheritor like you, so out of consideration for your ancestor, I will give you a little warning. If you make a move on me again, I will strip you and sell you to a far away place, understand?”
The urge to vomit blood rose inside Mei Suyao. When did she want to make a move against Li Qiye? It sounded as if she was the perverted woman who wanted to take advantage of him!
“Bang—bang—bang—” At this time, the Void Gate suddenly rocked back and forth. Its light became faint as cracks began to form.
“So in the end, it is still going to collapse.” Li Qiye looked at the gate and murmured.
“Boom!” The Void Gate suddenly cracked and instantly broke apart. At this time, no matter if they were in the timeless portal or on the World Tree, or even in the strange space inside the Void Gate, all were blown away.
The timeless portal was the next to collapse as everything disappeared.
Chapter 352 - Saving the Realm God
Everyone was stunned; they didn’t know what was going on so they could only stand still. The moment they regained their minds, they were already standing inside the Heavenly Dao Academy.
Many of them had been digging in full swing while others were in other dimensions to study the mysterious grand dao on the World Tree, yet they were suddenly ejected from their respective locations inside the timeless portal! No one was exempt from this sudden and confusing ejection.
“What happened?” Many people looked at each other and couldn’t help but ask. However, no one could give a definite answer.
At this point, many people turned crazy from indignation. Just a moment ago, they were excitedly digging to see if they could find a supreme treasure, so how could they not become enraged from this sudden eviction?
However, whether it was anger and craziness, it was meaningless at this time because the timeless portal had already collapsed.
Sudden roars and unwilling howls resounded inside the academy. One student angrily shouted: “Oh Heaven, give me back my jade pond! I only saw it and didn’t get to bathe in it!”
“Motherf*cker, my heavenly compass! I only got to dig halfway and didn’t get it out in time!” Another crazily screamed.
“Good Heavens! Are you messing with me? I finally managed to get in and had only just started to climb the World Tree, yet you already kicked me out? I’m going to die from anger!” A descendant from a great power blurted out his unwillingness.
In just a short moment, countless cries that were capable of garnering sympathy resounded in the academy. Some were in tears, and a few people were truly too pitiful!
Li Qiye and Mei Suyao landed at the top of a peak since they were also ejected. Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and spoke without any surprise: “Void Gate, I shall await the day when you open again.”
Mei Suyao simply stood to the side without saying anything. Although she was still outside of the mundane boundary with her holiness, she now wore a tint of unnaturalness.
“Cultivate more diligently.” Li Qiye glanced at her and said: “Don’t waste your time with these kinds of things all day. Although your starting point is not wrong, being a saintess is not suitable for you, and it is especially not suitable for the Alaya Heavenly Fragrant Dao. Immortal Emperor Xiu Shui didn’t leave behind this divine technique so that her descendants could run around to be saintesses! If you don’t change your ways, you will one day find that you have already ruined your chance at reaching the apex!”
Mei Suyao looked back at him. Her lips trembled as if she wanted to say something, but at this time, a thunderous explosion suddenly emerged as the Heavenly Dao Academy shook while the earth began to crack.
“Not good.” Li Qiye became serious and said. He ignored Mei Suyao and disappeared into the depths of the academy.
Mei Suyao could only silently gaze at Li Qiye’s back as he departed. Eventually, she sighed softly and floated away.
“Rumble!” The academy quaked here and there with cracks appearing all over the earth. The mountains were collapsing the rivers began to dry.
Not only did those who were expelled from the portal become alarmed, many experts of the great powers outside were also startled.
“Could it be that the collapse of the timeless portal destabilized the academy?” A person jumped from being frightened and immediately fled from the academy. What if the academy also broke down like the timeless portal? Then all of them would have to die a miserable death here.
However, some great characters also thought about a different matter.
“Could it be that the divine protector of the academy can no longer hold on?” One of them spoke as a glimmer appeared in his eyes.
Before this, there was a rumor that the divine protector of the academy had succumbed to its inner demon and was about to destroy the academy. This news created huge waves, resulting in many people scheming against the academy.
What happened afterward was known to everyone. The academy destroyed the alliance’s plan and killed all of their troops. Along with the loss of three Immortal Emperor Life Treasures, eleven old undyings died inside the academy.
The plotting alliance suffered heavy losses from this battle. They gave away a bride and also lost their army on top of it. 1
Later on, many people speculated that the news claiming that the Realm God’s inner demon going berserk was just a huge trap to bait the snakes to leave their nests. It was so that those with malicious intents would jump down.
This sudden occurrence made people think about what happened last year. Could it be that the Realm God really couldn’t make it?
Some were quite suspicious, but no one dared to make a move, such as entering the academy for espionage. The alliance’s fate was an unforgettable example!
With such a painful lesson constantly reminding them, none of the lineages wished to cross the academy’s boundary at this moment.
“Thank the heavens, you are finally back. Just in time. If you arrived several days later, we definitely wouldn’t be able to hold on any longer. The ancestor has personally taken action.” Old Daoist Peng heaved a sigh of relief after seeing Li Qiye.
Li Qiye looked up above and saw a jade-like hand holding an immortal lotus flower above the enormous dwelling of the Realm God. The immortal lotus poured down countless drops of holy dew that were capable of calming the minds of people. The vegetation became lush once more as if spring had arrived. Everything was thriving!
“Magu came into being?” Seeing the hand holding the lotus, Li Qiye said while being visibly moved.
Old Daoist Peng shook his head and answered: “The ancestor has not left the Everlasting Courtyard. Venerable Ancestor woke up because the Realm God’s situation had become worse despite us using secret weapons to suppress it. We were no longer able to bear it these last few days, but the ancestor suddenly came to the rescue.”
At this time, the old men from the academy firmly remained in their posts, but they were dispirited and fatigued. There was no doubt that calming down the Realm God took a lot of their strength.
“Was it a success?” Old Daoist Peng’s heart was hanging on a thread as he asked Li Qiye. He didn’t want to hear bad news because if Li Qiye was unsuccessful, then the matter regarding the Realm God would become completely hopeless.
“Indeed, we shall go in.” Li Qiye answered and then immediately rushed in.
Old Daoist Peng was overjoyed as he followed right behind Li Qiye while exhaling breath of relief. This could be the best news for the academy that he had heard within the last two years.
Once Li Qiye entered the Realm God’s dwelling, he found that this place had become even more desolate. The entire earth was scorched with lava everywhere like the end of the world has come.
“If we can’t make it, then I’m afraid the billions of miles of our academy will turn into ruins.” Old Daoist Peng bitterly said.
Li Qiye calmly said: “Frankly speaking, your academy brought this upon itself. You should have made a choice earlier; either find the right time for the Realm God to die or let it go back. Unfortunately, your academy used all of its heavenly treasures and immortal essence to prolong its life.”
“The Realm God has been rooted in your ancestral vein, but one day, it will no longer be able to bear it! If it cannot maintain control of itself, then the result would be an explosion. All of you can imagine the consequences at that time!”
Old Daoist Peng could only awkwardly smile at Li Qiye’s scolding. The academy understood this very well. The Realm God shouldn’t have lived until now. Because of the academy’s efforts in prolonging its lifespan, it caused the Realm God to be embedded within the academy’s vein.
The Realm God once said that it will be problematic in the future if it was rooted in the vein, but how could the academy let its invincible divine protector die from old age? With its protection, it meant that no one could touch the academy. Even a living Immortal Emperor would find it difficult.
The Realm God, in its pine tree form, was dying when Li Qiye arrived to its rooted location. Its condition was much more serious than what it had been during their last meeting. Its entire body was now burnt to a black crisp as if it was struck by thunder; the flames were still blazing!
“Begin.” Li Qiye took a deep breath and said.
Old Daoist Peng didn’t dare to be careless as he quickly took out a treasure bowl. Li Qiye poured the already-prepared medicine into the bowl and carefully took out a box to take out a young leaf from the World Tree.
The moment he took it out, a majestic and endless vitality appeared. This leaf was filled with youth that would cause others to feel as if they were a thousand years younger just be breathing in this fresh scent.
“A young leaf from the World Tree! Legends state that only three of them would come into being every time the World Tree appears. It is a priceless and unique treasure.”
Li Qiye carefully placed this young leaf into the medicine bowl. Then, he took out a drop of Myriad Star Water from inside a bottle.
In the past, Li Qiye turned an Immortal Writ into a cup capable of storing the Myriad Star Water. Later on, he went to the War God Temple to take away an actual bottle capable of storing the water.
“Myriad Star Water!” Old Daoist Peng became breathless after seeing this drop of water. Even one drop would be craved by Immortal Emperors; it was something rarely seen in this world. He wanted to see just how much Li Qiye had, but unfortunately, Li Qiye already put it away before he had the chance to find out.
Chapter 353 - Realm God’s Recovery
Once the Myriad Star droplet fell onto the World Tree’s young leaf, the leaf began to slowly melt into medicine.
“Rumble!” At this time, the old daoist raised the treasure bowl up high as it spewed out immortal water — like a spring — onto the pine tree body of the Realm God.
At this time, the blackened pine tree emitted sounds that resonated with the dao. The initially dead branches began to send down orderly divine chains — like little waterfalls — that began to siphon the medicine very quickly.
As this siphoning process continued, the blackened layer of bark began to slowly change. It was peeling like a snake shedding its skin.
The pine tree drank more and more medicine, and the changes became even greater. Eventually, all of its blackened bark fell down as new leaves appeared while the old branches emitted a renewed vitality.
Finally, all of the medicine was absorbed by the Realm God. Now, a lush, verdant pine tree appeared before Li Qiye and the old daoist. No one would ever think that this old pine tree was the invincible Realm God.
“Boom!” With a blast, the pine tree shot out endless green lights into the sky. The green lights were filled with life, just like the ocean, as it encompassed the entire academy.
Many people were amazed at the green brilliance up in the sky. They were enveloped in this feeling as if they were just a drop of water amidst the vast sea.
Outside of the academy, even amongst the vast territories of the Eastern Hundred Cities, countless people felt this boundless vitality at this moment.
Underground, countless pairs of eyes opened as sealed old undyings awakened from their slumbers.
In this moment, many powerful existences felt this endless vitality that was capable of covering the entire domain emanate from the academy.
“The Realm God!!” At this moment, numerous people were shaken with fear. They all had shocked expressions no matter how strong they were.
The invincible Realm God — these were not just empty words. The Realm God and the Calamity God were the two great gods of the Mortal Emperor World. They did not need to be bestowed titles because they deserved the titles of True Gods!
“Is this a ritual to renew one’s vitality?” An old undying who was buried underground murmured as he felt the inexhaustible vitality.
If the Realm God obtained a renewed life, then who in this world could touch the academy? Even Immortal Emperors would not be successful.
“Rumble!” At this time, a heaven-changing development occurred at the academy as the cracked earth began to come together. The broken rivers began to flow again, and the collapsed mountains rose once more…
It was as if the earth itself was being rebuilt. Such an invincible power horrified others, and experts felt their legs giving out before this unraveling scene.
Destroying mountains and rivers was not difficult for great characters. However, changing the earth or rebuilding the world was something only Godkings, True Gods, and the legendary Immortal Emperors were capable of!
The Realm God’s dwelling changed its appearance completely. The scorched earth that spanned thousands of miles had now been rebuilt along with the other geographical features and vegetation.
Seeing this scene, Li Qiye stated with some feelings: “This is not only due to the great power of the Realm God, the peerless ancestral vein found underground also played a huge role. This ancestral vein is the origin of a huge amount of heavenly essences. Who would not want such a vein?”
It was not just mere words when people said that the Realm God could defend the academy against Immortal Emperors. However, it was not due to just its own power. The magicalness of the ancestral vein greatly contributed to this!
As long the Realm God’s real body did not leave the ancestral vein, even Immortal Emperors personally taking action wouldn’t be enough to destroy the academy.
This was the reason why so many different people since time immemorial lusted after the academy’s ancestral vein. It was because this vein accumulated so much heavenly essence in the Mortal Emperor World. Anyone who established their sect above this vein would allow for future generations to enjoy this benefit for countless generations!
“Okay, we shall leave so that the Realm God can rest.” After seeing the satisfactory end of his business, Li Qiye told the old daoist.
“Umm… Hehe, maybe it is time for you to return the Karmic Flame Scissors to our academy?” The old daoist rubbed his hands together and gleefully smiled.
Li Qiye looked at him with one eye and nonchalantly said: “Oh? Why are you so alarmed? One can say that this time, your academy has greatly benefited. The Realm God absorbed so much vitality from the World Tree! If the Realm God cannot personally absorb all of it, then it will be channeled back to the ancestral vein. Not to mention, the Realm God was also saved.”
Old Daoist Peng rubbed his hands as he smilingly said: “Hehe, of course… Our academy is very grateful towards Young Noble Li.” Then he awkwardly continued on: “But that is a different matter, right? This old daoist had patted my chest confidently before my brothers and guaranteed that…”
After seeing the old daoist’s appearance, Li Qiye laughed and threw the treasure box that contained the Karmic Flame Scissors to him.
“Take it, I was just joking with you. If I wanted the academy’s treasures, I would not have picked the scissors. To me, if I wanted to take something, then it has to be something on the level of the Chaos Cauldron or something from the Emperor Era Hall. In fact, I would take all of them. Such an ordinary pair of Karmic Flame Scissors is not worth it for me to act unreasonably. That would be an affront to my character.” Having said that, Li Qiye rubbed his chin while revealing a contemplative look.
This remark froze the old daoist’s expression. Eventually, he responded with a mirthless smile: “Hahaha! Young Noble’s jokes are too funny. My academy is only a small place, so how could we get into the sight of Young Noble?”
Li Qiye glanced at the old daoist and said in a relaxed manner: “Not necessarily. Maybe when the Void Gate opens again, I will have to borrow a few secret weapons of the academy to use.”
This made the old daoist’s scalp tingle. Although the academy was indeed powerful, Li Qiye gave him a strange feeling as if the academy could not suppress him!
“Don’t worry, if I borrow your treasures, then I will return them in a timely manner so that it wouldn’t be difficult to borrow more in the future.” Li Qiye said with a laugh.
The old daoist busily smiled back to meet Li Qiye’s banter: “Yes, yes, giving them back after borrowing them will make future transactions easier. My academy will definitely try our best to help you. Young Noble Li, since the Void Gate was brought up, I have a question that I have been wanting to ask you. I hope you will dispel my confusion.” With that, the old daoist assumed an appearance that was thirsty for knowledge.
Li Qiye shook his head and smilingly answered: “You really know how to push the matter. Wait until that day, then we can talk about it again. Right now, I don’t know anything.” Finished speaking, Li Qiye turned around and left.
The old daoist couldn’t do anything about it, so he could only smile. He knew that Li Qiye knew something about the Void Gate, but Li Qiye didn’t want to tell anyone.
Old Daoist Peng and the academy did not know a lot about the Void Gate. How could the academy not be tempted by one of the Nine Grand Heavenly Treasures? Many wise sages from the academy researched it, but they all came back defeated without any results.
The party ended after the timeless portal’s collapse. The calamity of the academy was over, so it began to welcome back the students who were previously evacuated.
Many young cultivators from all over the world left with their seniors and sects, and many students also left since they only came for the timeless portal and not to beseech the dao. Now that the party was over, they made their way back home.
However, there were also a large number of disciples from the great sects that decided to stay at the academy.
Some were happy and some were sad now that the timeless portal event was over. Some were successful while others lamented with grief. Nevertheless, this event had changed many people, especially those young cultivators with humble beginnings. After obtaining their own fortune, their fate had changed and some would tread on the long and unending path of the dao.
Of course, this sort of thing was not uncommon. The timeless portal of the academy had opened many times across the numerous generations and had changed the fate of many people!
However, some matters were far from over, such as the unknown Void Gate. Although the younger crowd did not know about it, they told the story to the big characters and ancestors in their sects after they returned. Those who knew bits and scraps about the gate were shocked and started to inquire about this matter.
Something from the legends actually appeared, so how could these big shots not be moved?
Only four people made it to the space of the Void Gate, and they were Li Qiye, Mei Suyao, Jikong Wudi, and Zi Cuining. However, Zi Cuining and Jikong Wudi fought right outside of the gate.
Chapter 354 - Everyone’s Creations
At this time, many people speculated that the creations inside the Void Gate were obtained by either Mei Suyao or Li Qiye, and it most likely had something to do with the timeless portal’s collapse.
After the timeless portal event was over, Mei Suyao left the academy and went back, alone, to the Eternal River School. Her actions incited even more suspicion and guesses from the great powers.
Many assumed that Mei Suyao obtained a great creation that had a great connection to the Void Gate.
The majority did not dare to ask due to fear from the Eternal River School’s strength. However, there were those who did not give up and used different methods in order to obtain more information, especially the old undyings.
Li Shuangyan and the other girls also returned safely along with many Cleansing Incense disciples who were kicked out from the timeless portal.
After the event was over, Li Qiye didn’t let the Cleansing Incense disciples nor the Nine Saint disciples stay behind in the Eastern Hundred Cities. This was not the territory of their sects, so Li Qiye told the academy to open a dao portal so that the disciples could return. Only Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao stayed behind by his side.
This trip to the World Tree left all of them with creations; the most excited was Little Autumn. It came back and immediately chattered the moment it saw Li Qiye: “Holy shit, I can’t take it anymore. I will go back to my realm to hibernate.” Having said that, it immediately faded away into nothingness.
Its entire body was golden as if it was wearing a suit of armor. Others couldn’t tell that it was a worm at all!
Li Qiye nodded his head and understood that Little Autumn had obtained a great creation. It was like a carp leaping over the dragon gate. It was a qualitative leap forward in its quintessential essence.
Sikong Toutian did not come back to see Li Qiye. Rumor has it that after being blown out of the timeless portal, he didn’t have time to put on a disguise so others recognized him. A group of experts from the Eastern Hundred Cities chased him out of the academy.
Li Qiye could only shake his head after hearing this message. This little brat stole and swindled from everyone all over the place, and he even dug up the ancestral graves of others. One day, Sikong Toutian would definitely fall into the hands of others.
Bing Yuxia also came back to say goodbye along with Ye Chuyun from the Pure Lotus School.
Bing Yuxia looked at Li Qiye and arrogantly declared: “Little Demon, I found a great creation so I will go into secluded meditation now. Wait until I come out. Then, I will definitely put you down so bad that you would not be able to enter the reincarnation cycle!”
“Pat!” Li Qiye slapped her fragrant butt in place of an answer. Then, he said with a smile: “You want to put me down? In your lifetime, it is out of the question. Next time when you meet me, you better be wearing female clothing, or else I will strip you!”
After being teased by Li Qiye, Bing Yuxia angrily glared and left in annoyance. Compared to Bing Yuxia’s arrogance, Ye Chuyun was much more gentle and considerate. Before leaving, she especially invited Li Qiye to the Pure Lotus School as a guest.
Another notable thing was that the Lion’s Roar Gate left overnight, so it was too late to say goodbye. Chi Xiaodie never met her grandfather, she only got a message from another disciple.
Li Qiye planned to meet with Chi Xiaodie’s grandfather, but he lost the chance due to their sudden evacuation. It turned out that Chi Xiaodao also obtained a sizable creation inside the timeless portal. The Lion’s Roar Royal Lord was afraid of being followed so he took Chi Xiaodao and a group of disciples to secretly leave overnight.
After all, in the royal lord’s eyes, the gate was still very weak. If anyone wished to steal Chi Xiaodao’s creation, the gate would not be able to protect him, so this triggered the secret overnight evacuation.
Li Shuangyan, Chen Baojiao, and Chi Xiaodie stayed behind along with Li Qiye in the academy. They had no immediate plans to leave.
This trip granted the three of them quite a harvest; each of them found a creation.
Li Shuangyan obtained a treasure crown cast from a mysterious ice, so she gave it to Li Qiye for a look.
After a careful observation, Li Qiye commented: “Amazing. Rather than calling it a crown, it is more of a supreme offensive ice dao. It is not a treasure, and it would be more accurate to call it an accumulation formed by the grand dao. This thing is very appropriate for you, but it will depend on you to extract its future potential.”
Li Shuangyan smiled like an apricot in full bloom. She was not excited and maintained a calm posture that was very lovable. Since she had followed Li Qiye for so long, she became infected with his style and seemed to never be surprised no matter the situation — always calm and composed.
Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao were different regarding this matter. Chen Baojiao was a strong and competitive girl. During her time at the Jewel Pillar Sacred School, she was quite unhappy despite being a noble and supreme beauty. However, after following Li Qiye, she became a lot more spirited. To her, even if the sky were to fall down, Li Qiye would shoulder it. Thus, she became a lot more vivacious.
Chen Baojiao obtained a great creation from the World Tree in the form of a technique. After checking it out, Li Qiye spoke words of praise: “This thing will pave your future path; whether you want to follow the path of the heavens or the path of the grand era, it will be up to you.”
“Can I really pick either one?” Chen Baojiao emotionally asked. She desperately and earnestly trained more than anyone else, but her talents were weaker compared to Li Shuangyan, so after hearing Li Qiye’s words, how could she not become emotional? 1
Li Qiye laughed and gently tapped her head: “Do you not believe in yourself and your Young Noble? With the grand dao I have taught you along with your Tyrannical Immortal Spring Physique, as long as your dao heart remains firm and you practice hard, it would not be difficult for you to walk on either path. This technique will only assist your future foundation to become more stable. Even without it, you could still reach the peak.”
“Of course I trust Young Noble.” Chen Baojiao chuckled and said with an alluring charm. She was the sole reason for the phrase — a beauty is just like a disastrous flood for the kingdom and its citizens! 2
Chi Xiaodie obtained a grand dao inside the World Tree after she was transported to a place where an immortal voice was preaching the grand dao. After listening, a scripture formed within her mind.
After coming back, she quickly copied it down and consulted with Li Qiye so that he could help her. Compared to Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao, she clearly lacked self-confidence.
She was not to blame since she was extremely confident before in both her beauty and talents. But after following Li Qiye and broadening her horizons, she found that the world was vast and unimaginable; this mysterious place had left her in marvel. Before, she was only a royal canary in the Lion’s Roar Gate.
Despite having been subjected to this realization, she did not become discouraged and yearned for change. She put in even more effort to study the dao in order to follow Li Qiye’s footsteps. Her aspiration was to catch up to Li Qiye one day. Even if she could not walk with him shoulder to shoulder, she didn’t hope that she would stay in the same place as he trod further forward.
“This is not an ordinary dao, it is a divine dao! You’ve have found a great creation. As long as you push on forward, you will one day be bestowed the title of Godking just like your ancestor — someone comparable to True Gods! When that day comes, your achievement will be much greater than those fake gods.” Li Qiye perused Chi Xiaodie’s copy of her grand dao and praised.
Chi Xiaodie was extremely excited after hearing his praise. To her, nothing was comparable to praises from Li Qiye.
Finally, he corrected a thing or two for her along with explaining a few mysticisms, resulting in great benefits for her.
A divine dao as wonderful as this was nothing to Li Qiye. Throughout the ages, Li Qiye had seen too many grand dao; whether it was dao of Immortal Emperors, dao of the True Gods, or even mysterious grand dao from the Legendary Era, all had been read by him!
However, Chi Xiaodie’s visible effort and progress earned Li Qiye’s favor. If she still acted as a golden canary like before, then Li Qiye would not waste so much effort to teach her.
One tried her best to progress while the other happily taught her in hopes that she could reach the peak just like her ancestor, the Hundred Battles Godking.
Eventually, Zi Cuining also visited and met Li Qiye in a room with just the two of them.
She took a deep breath and solemnly took out a box. This box was locked up with a black dragon that occupied the space above.
Zi Cuining knew that this box was personally sealed by her ancestor, the Black Dragon King. Logically speaking, in this world, only her ancestor could unseal this box.
Li Qiye accepted the box and opened his Fate Palace to reveal his True Fate. Within his sea of memories, a ripple suddenly appeared. His eyes shot out two immortal lights onto the box. After this, the black dragon on the box suddenly came to life and coiled around Li Qiye’s arm.
“Zhang—zhang—zhang!” The black dragon turned into mantras, and all of the mantras wove together into a page of immortal scripture. Suddenly, this page entered Li Qiye’s sea of memories.
An immortal scripture emerged in his sea of memories, and a previously erased memory surfaced in its entirety.
Next, this scripture entered the depths of his mind. After absorbing this completed memory, Li Qiye’s mind held an incomparable tinge of emotion, causing him to softly sigh.
Chapter 355 - One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques
This heavenly immortal scripture was created after Li Qiye put in a countless amount of effort. It could be said that throughout the countless ages, after he obtained the Physique Scripture, he had always been trying to create an unprecedented miracle!
After millions of years of numerous attempts and research, he was finally successful with the Black Dragon King. He had created a miracle never-before-seen by anyone else.
“One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques!” Li Qiye gently sighed in his mind. Through years of arduous undertakings, he had finally created the most peerless immortal scripture in this world.
Seeing this scene, Zi Cuining couldn’t help but become stunned. She took out this box from the Little Sea Village and was quite surprised because it was personally sealed by her ancestor. The preciousness of the item inside could only be imagined.
But at this moment, the true value of this box was not with the item inside, it was within the black dragon seal. The box itself was only a ruse to fool others.
“Correct, this is the essential part.” Li Qiye noticed Zi Cuining’s thoughts and nodded his head: “Moreover, outside of your ancestor, only I can unseal this lock.”
“What is it?” Zi Cuining couldn’t help but ask.
Li Qiye didn’t directly answer her. He only smiled: “Throughout his life, what was your ancestor’s most powerful art?”
“The Heaven Protector Dao!” Zi Cuining immediately answered without any hesitation. In fact, her ancestor’s Heaven Protector Dao was feared by even Immortal Emperors!
“Wrong.” Li Qiye shook his head and said: “The Heaven Protector Dao is something your ancestor researched later on in order to leave behind something for his descendants. Your ancestor was invincible not because of his Heaven Protector Dao, but because of his dual Immortal Physiques!”
“Dual Immortal Physiques?” Upon hearing this, she became stunned for a moment. At this time, she suddenly realized something, but she did not dare to give it any more thought.
“That’s right, one body with two Immortal Physiques, two grand completion Immortal Physiques!” Li Qiye nodded his head and stated. One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques — this was the immortal scripture created by Li Qiye after he spent an eternity of research, and he used this scripture on the Black Dragon King.
“Impossible—” Zi Cuining uttered her thought. At the moment, she was aghast despite the fact that she had seen many miracles before!
Li Qiye revealed a wide smile and said: “But your ancestor made it possible! He was the only one across the ages to have dual grand completion Immortal Physiques — this was his pride!”
“This… How was it possible?” Zi Cuining was frozen for a while. One grand completion Immortal Physique was already unreachable. Legend states that a powerful Virtuous Paragon with a grand completion Immortal Physique could already oppose an Immortal Emperor.
What kind of existence was someone with dual Immortal Physiques? Since time immemorial, no one had ever heard of someone cultivating two different Immortal Physiques because it was an impossible matter due to having only one body!
“Your ancestor was a tyrant for three generations. Immortal Emperor Qian Li, Immortal Emperor Yin Tian, and later on, even Immortal Emperor Ta Kong’s Heaven’s Will was torn apart by your ancestor! Did you think your Heaven Protector Dao was enough to instill fear upon Immortal Emperors?” Li Qiye smilingly said.
The dazed Zi Cuining couldn’t say anything. Everyone knew that the Heaven’s Will was torn apart in that ultimate battle. It didn’t matter who won or lost because tearing apart the Heaven’s Will was already a marvel for the ages! Ask the heavens, who could actually accomplish such a deed?”
“Very few people know about this secret. Even only Gu Zun and a few others in your Heaven Protector City know about this!” Li Qiye nonchalantly said. 1
Zi Cuining calmed down and couldn’t help but gaze intensely at Li Qiye, then she asked: “How are you related to my ancestor?”
“I am not an illegitimate son of your ancestor nor am I a descendant sealed by him to come into being at this time.” Li Qiye smiled and knew that Zi Cuining would think that this was the case. He shook his head to say: “Your ancestor only loved one person throughout his entire life!”
Zi Cuining took a deep breath and was reluctant to ask about this mysterious matter that couldn’t be solved by anyone.
“Take out the Black Dragon Spear.” Li Qiye commanded.
Zi Cuining gave the Black Dragon Spear to Li Qiye without too much thought.
“Clankkk—” The Black Dragon Spear in Li Qiye’s hand turned into the Immortal’s Blood Spear.
Li Qiye stared at her and said: “You should understand something. You did not follow your ancestor’s Heaven Protector Dao at a young age because, on your path, the Heaven Protector Dao is but a leaf on a branch. Do you know why?”
“I heard that it was the will of the ancestor!” In fact, she didn’t understand why her ancestor declared her as the inheritor even though they were thirty thousand years apart. Could it be that the ancestor could divine the future?
Li Qiye simply smiled and didn’t reveal the truth. At this time, a ripple appeared in his mind as a universal law appeared on his forehead and shot out onto the Immortal’s Blood Spear.
A sanguine brilliance suddenly appeared on the spear. This brilliance and Li Qiye’s universal law came together and turned into an immortal rune that was engraved onto the spear’s body.
“Clank!” Li Qiye clapped his hands together, and the Immortal’s Blood Spear turned into the Black Dragon Spear once more. He returned it to Zi Cuining and then said: “The grand dao of the Immortal’s Blood Spear is the correct future path for you. One day, you will stand at the apex and be able to kill gods and devils! Carefully study it ah! When the day comes where you grow to such a level, if there are immortals in this world, then you shall be able to slay them!”
Having heard this, Zi Cuining couldn’t prevent herself from showing her astonishment. Killing immortals! These words were not just from the legends nor was it an exaggeration! After taking a deep breath, she asked with curiosity: “Why don’t you cultivate it?”
The Immortal’s Blood Spear was an unbeatable weapon and the path of immortal killing was the ultimate ferocious dao, but Li Qiye returned it to her! If it was someone else, surely they would have kept it for themselves.
Li Qiye stayed silent for a moment before he finally uttered: “I’ve grown weary!” One answer with multiple meanings, but it was not important whether Zi Cuining understood the implicit meanings or not.
This spear was stained with immortal blood throughout numerous massacres. The past was too heavy and Li Qiye didn’t want to remember it, thus he didn’t like keeping the spear by his side.
Zi Cuining put away the spear and silently left.
However, before she departed, Li Qiye asked: “How was your battle with Jikong Wudi.”
“He is indeed worthy of being Immortal Emperor Ta Kong’s descendant.” Zi Cuining answered: “It was a shame that before the victor could be determined, we were expelled from the space. He had already left when I landed outside. If we fight again, I will surely defeat him.”
“That is a matter of course.” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Your Immortal’s Blood Spear can even pierce the throat of an Immortal Emperor, so a mere descendant is nothing. Next time, use the Immortal’s Blood Spear instead of the Black Dragon Spear!”
Zi Cuining nodded her head and left. However, she was still staying at the Heavenly Dao Academy.
When it came to attracting attention, she was right behind Mei Suyao and Jikong Wudi. And after the two of them left the academy, Zi Cuining became the center of the limelight.
However, contrary to Mei Suyao and Jikong Wudi, Zi Cuining was a person who trod on a solitary path with a terrorizing aura, so no one dared to go near her.
Mei Suyao came into this world to cultivate and preach the dao. It could be said that wherever she went, such places became lively.
Jikong Wudi had the will to rule this world so he purposefully recruited many followers. His path always had the presence of a great force.
However, Zi Cuining trod alone. Anyone who wanted to get close would become breathless from her aura. Her title suited her very well. 2
Outside of meeting with Li Qiye, she rarely showed herself during her stay at the academy.
Although she was arrogant, no one dared to mess with her. Not to mention the younger generation, even the great lineages wouldn’t want to mess with the Heaven Protector City.
After Zi Cuining left, Li Qiye stayed in his room to meditate. His six palaces appeared to form a domain led by the master palace.
His True fate inside the master palace was like the tyrant of this domain — noble and unreachable as it encompassed these nine heavens. It could be said that within his domain, this True Fate was the pinnacle of all existences, and its one thought was capable of deciding life and death.
The dao foundation built by the Kun Peng’s Six Variants was majestic and boundless. Sometimes, it would turn into an immortal citadel, a divine palace, or a gigantic Kun Peng. It flew around and protected the True Fate.
This was different from the previous dao foundation. Universal laws became divine orders that were able to create a divine world and channel the ultimate profundity of myriad dao.
The more shocking matter was that this dao foundation was filled with primordial energy as if it was created before the formation of the heaven and earth. This dao foundation was much more perfect and mystical. It showed the signs of becoming one; it was as if Li Qiye’s grand dao was also turning into one solitary truth that was without any flaws or defects.
This dao foundation did not look like it was created after the heavens, but more like it was naturally formed. Anyone would be shocked after seeing such a dao foundation.
No matter how great a genius was, they would have certain flaws when cultivating on the path to the grand dao. In the end, the grand dao was long and arduous, and no one could guarantee that a problem would not occur.
The teaser tonight is the title along with one phrase.
Li Qiye remained silent for a moment before answering: “I’ve grown weary.”
Chapter 356 - One Body Two Physiques
However, Li Qiye’s dao foundation strived for perfection. No one was more experienced than him regarding cultivation since he had trained numerous invincible characters, including Immortal Emperors.
Right from the beginning, he aimed for a defect-free dao foundation. After basking in the Worldly Prime Liquid, his dao foundation was refined even further, causing it to head towards a natural dao foundation that was formed by the world itself.
Without this liquid, his dao foundation would still have blemishes despite being near perfect. Maybe one day, it would become one with the grand dao through a natural process!
Not to mention that it was also filled with the primordial chaos that only existed before the creation of the heaven and earth. This primordial force tore apart all things to create a new six dao and three thousand worlds.
The Kun Peng that was formed by this dao foundation was flying around as the primordial force cascaded downward like a waterfall. The endless primordial chaos was like an ocean that drowned the True Fate.
This was no longer the Kun Peng’s Six Variants since the Kun Peng had undergone a qualitative change. It should be called a Primordial Kun Peng, something much stronger than what it was previously.
An immortal scripture appeared in his sea of memories. This was the One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques created by him, the embodiment of all of his past efforts.
At this moment, the immortal scripture turned into mantras that hovered around the dazzling True Fate that was swallowing an endless amount of worldly energy. The Life Wheel also appeared and started to rotate as Longevity Blood in the shape of dragons began to flow.
All of these things combined into one as the True Fate began to communicate with the four images within the palace.
At this very second, the four images resonated together in a response. The Tree of Life fluttered as countless leaves that were filled with vitality radiated green lights that eventually entered the Longevity Blood and the worldly energy in order to give it the power of life.
The Spring of Life shot out a stream of water more than three thousand miles long that flooded the Longevity Blood and worldly energy as if it was nourishing a new source of life.
Grand dao runes appeared on top of the Pillar of Life. Countless runes soared forward to embed the meaning of the heavens and myriad signs of life into this new source of life in order to form a new universal law.
Finally, the Cauldron of Life poured down fire endowed with vitality. It was not meant to burn, it was meant to grow. At this moment, the combination of the Longevity Blood and worldly energy came together like a newly crafted piece of ceramic with the help of the fire solidifying it.
“Clank—clank—clank!” During this whole refining process, Li Qiye’s Inner Physique by his chest emitted a brilliance that was created by universal laws. These universal laws locked the new creation together and connected it to his Inner Physique. In just a brief moment, these laws allowed for the Inner Physique, the True Fate, and the body to link together to become one. At this moment, Li Qiye’s body emitted a blinding light that illuminated the whole room.
One could see that his bones, muscles, and even his blood were all engraved with complex and enormous heavenly dao runes. It was as if these runes were the true origin of his flesh.
“Clank!”
The endless light came crashing down as the Inner Physique, the True Fate, and the body became one. The Longevity Blood and the worldly energy condensed into one as it devoured the endless lights. These lights that carried the mark of his body were swallowed and engraved into this new essence.
After a long time, this new essence escaped from his Fate Palace and was also pulled by the universal laws into Li Qiye’s chest. Li Qiye’s Hell Suppressing Inner Physique was no longer situated in his entire chest; instead, it moved to the side to make some room.
Next, an unbelievable thing happened. The newly crafted essence began to take the form of a new Inner Physique. It and the Hell Suppressing Inner Physique were both placed in Li Qiye’s chest!
This process was very long, but Li Qiye patiently waited and nurtured the new Inner Physique. He could only sigh in relief after this new Inner Physique was formed.
One body with two Inner Physiques — this was something the world could not imagine. However, Li Qiye’s ambition far exceeded this!
Since the beginning of time, the Fate Palace’s four images were a mystery to cultivators. Many tried to reveal their true profundities and discover their true use.
In this regard, Li Qiye had traveled very far. After so much research, he eventually founded the foundation for him to create an invincible existence like the Black Dragon King with two Immortal Physiques.
Other cultivators only had one Inner Physique, but Li Qiye could create another! After researching the truths of the four images and spending countless years to create his immortal scripture, he was finally able to create the “One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques”. It used the four images to craft a second Inner Physique, maybe even a third!
Longevity Blood and worldly energy from the True Fate would be the base. Then, use the Tree of Life to give it life. Following that, utilize the Spring of Life to nurture it before letting the Pillar of Life provide laws for it. Then, he would use his original Inner Physique to combine the body, the True Fate, and the original engravings onto this new creation. After countless refinements and thorough nurturing, it would result in a new Inner Physique!
This process was extremely difficult and required the support from a great life energy. This meant that in order to create a new Inner Physique, there was a strict requirement regarding the Physique and the four images of one’s Fate Palace.
Before this, Li Qiye had a Mortal Physique and Mortal Fate. Although he was confident that he could craft a second Inner Physique, he knew that with his original body and talents, it would need a very long time alongside painful training. However, he absolutely believed that he could endure this arduous process.
Now, after obtaining a creation in the form of the Worldly Prime Liquid, it was no longer difficult for him to create a new Inner Physique. However, his aspiration did not stop here.
In the past, the Black Dragon King’s talents were quite amazing at a young age. Later on, Li Qiye used countless heavenly treasures to change the Black Dragon King, but he couldn’t find the Worldly Prime Liquid. Despite this, the Black Dragon King was still able to create a second Inner Physique.
Now, with this liquid, it caused Li Qiye to not want to stop at a second Inner Physique. He wanted to craft a third one in order to, one day, surpass the Black Dragon King’s miracle.
“One Thought Creating Myriad Physiques…” In the end, after watching the second Inner Physique reach its initial stage of gestating in his chest, Li Qiye sighed with emotion.
The only thing that would never let one down was sheer effort, so the success of the Black Dragon King was one of the proudest things Li Qiye had accomplished during his millions of years.
Of course, such a thing was too impossible to imagine. Not to mention Heavenly Kings, but even giants across the ages would be startled after finding out such a thing.
One grand completion Immortal Physique was already amazing enough, but what if one person possessed two of them?
The answer was very obvious. The Black Dragon King was revered for three generations and was even avoided by Immortal Emperors because they didn’t want to become enemies with him!
What if one person possessed three Immortal Physiques? This sort of thing might never be answered. However, if it was actually successful, it would break the Black Dragon King’s record. As for how powerful it would be… People simply could not imagine such a thing.
Only Li Qiye knew that this shocking matter was possible, and he was eagerly waiting in anticipation. When that day comes, Li Qiye would — once again — break his record and create a new miracle.
He took out an old box that he got from the Heavenly Dao Academy. Since he crushed the alliance’s scheme against the academy, the academy agreed to give him this box.
After opening it and looking at the thing inside, he became silent for a long time before he closed the box with another sigh.
He then gazed towards the far horizon in contemplation. This trip to the Eastern Hundred Cities was now over, it was time for him to leave. There were things that he must do and things that he had to find out!
Amongst these things were secrets forever unknown to outsiders because they affected too many things, and one was even related to the origin of a race!
Li Qiye silently stood there. Millions of years passed by like flowing water. He once had countless loyal generals and many supreme women by his side to sweep the nine heavens and ten earths.
But today, he trod on this grand path alone.
“All will come to an end!” Li Qiye looked at the far distance and slowly said: “Immortality, eternality, the heavens or the endless time… One day, everything will end by my hands!” This was Li Qiye’s promise to himself and those who once followed him. 1
Chapter 357 - Meeting the Realm God
A few days later, Old Daoist Peng wanted to meet Li Qiye, so Chi Xiaodie went to inform Li Qiye.
The atmosphere inside the room was peaceful. Chen Baojiao was sitting on a chair that was meant for imperial consorts. Although she was charming and seductive, her appearance at this moment also carried an air of divine nobility. This air, combined with her alluring face, painted quite an enticing picture.
Li Qiye was resting his head upon Chen Baojiao’s thighs while she gently caressed his head. Her plump breasts were almost covering his face.
Li Shuangyan, who was standing to the side, was holding a scripture. She was chanting true mantras and slowly reading the profound words from it. Her voice was clear with a hint of coldness. As she was reading, flowers of ice were born alongside blooming snow lotuses.
Chen Baojiao’s entire body was misty like a flowing spring. A dense divine breath filled the room as if Chen Baojiao was a surging sweet drop of dew, nourishing the resting Li Qiye.
Primordial chaos was surrounding Li Qiye’s body and it completely hid his face. In this world, the essence of a primordial breath was the richest in vitality, so anyone who felt Li Qiye’s primordial breath would feel their own blood energy brimming with life.
Chi Xiaodie, who was standing at the door, was very envious of this scene. Such tranquility caused her heart to flutter at this indescribable mood. It was as if an immortal monarch was explaining the mysteries of this world.
After Li Shuangyan finished reading a section from the immortal scripture, Chi Xiaodie quietly spoke: “Senior Peng from the academy wants to see Young Noble.”
If it wasn’t for Old Daoist Peng wanting to meet Li Qiye, Chi Xiaodie wouldn’t have broken this wonderful and peaceful atmosphere.
Eventually, Li Qiye opened his eyes and absorbed all the primordial chaos back into his body as he sat up. He then smiled and said: “Baojiao’s Tyrannical Immortal Spring Physique is indeed extraordinary — very helpful.”
Chen Baojiao’s lips pursed as she replied: “I am also affected by Young Noble’s primordial energy, so I am the one who benefited.” Her sultry grace left others breathless.
Li Shuangyan put away the immortal scripture and revealed a rare smile: “There are three tribulations for a physique, so being exposed to Young Noble’s primordial energy along with the Worldly Prime Liquid’s essence will be very helpful for the future tribulations.”
“The truth is that there are really only two tribulations, but between the minor tribulation and the grand tribulation, the road is so long that some people cannot hold on. They would eventually succumb to their inner demons from impatience. As long as one’s dao heart is firm, how could one lose to the inner demon?” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Although Baojiao’s Tyrannical Immortal Spring Physique is not an Immortal Physique, its future potential is limitless. Of course, Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique is also the same. You two are cultivating the best physique laws in this world so reaching grand completion in the future is already a matter of fact. Although it will take a long time, those who cultivate the dao will all have to experience it. There is no need to be impatient.”
“You two need to have more confidence in yourselves as well as myself. Then, you will reach grand completion in the future. There is no need to rush for success! The level of Immortal Emperor cannot be reached in one day, and neither would Godkings be bestowed their titles in one night!”
Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao nodded their heads. Chi Xiaodie, who was standing nearby, also carved his words into her heart. Following Li Qiye would benefit her for the rest of her life.
Li Qiye turned around and left: “Okay, I will go see the old daoist.”
In another room, Li Qiye met the old daoist. He was still dirty like before, but there was a lively smile alongside his cheerful demeanor.
Seeing his happy mug, Li Qiye understood: “The disaster has passed, and it is time for your academy to reap the rewards.”
“The Realm God is doing just fine. It could be said that it obtained a great fortune out of this disaster. His Reverence will survive in this generation without any problems.”
“I understand your academy’s wish. Of course you want the Realm God to continue living, but what’s the need?” Li Qiye shook his head and smiled.
Old Daoist Peng could not answer Li Qiye. This was a knot with no solution. The Realm God once wanted to leave, but the elders beseeched it to stay. Since it grew up in the academy, in the end, it couldn’t forget the great kindness and decided to stay here to guard the academy.
Li Qiye didn’t harp about this matter any longer. This was an impassable matter of the academy, and they had discussed this for many generations.
“What did you want to see me for?” Li Qiye glanced at the old daoist and asked.
“The Realm God has completely recovered, and His Reverence agreed to your condition. It will carry out the promise at any time.” Old Daoist Peng said with a smile.
“The day will come.” Li Qiye smiled and said: “However, I want to meet the Realm God right now. I have a small matter that I need to trouble it with.”
“How small…?” The old daoist’s heart started to beat faster. He felt that this small matter that Li Qiye mentioned would not be small at all! It would surely be a heaven-piercing matter.
“Oh? Since when did you become such a miser? The Realm God might not say yes, so why are you so alarmed? Not to mention, your Everlasting Courtyard usually does not interfere with anything, so why are you worrying about so many things?”
“Haha, I’m not worry about anything, I am just very enthusiastic about Young Noble Li’s matters. You are an esteemed guest of our academy, so how could we dare to neglect your well-being?”
Li Qiye gave him a cold glance and said: “Enthusiastic? In my eyes, you are simply guarding against thieves. Old Daoist, I am not aiming for your academy!”
Old Daoist Peng immediately solemnly swore: “This is absolutely not the case. Young Noble Li is overthinking things. May the heaven and earth be my witness! This old daoist, no, our Heavenly Dao Academy respects you as an esteemed guest!”
“Fine, don’t blabber on and on. Lead the way, I want to meet the Realm God.”
“This… Umm…” Old Daoist Peng rubbed his palms continuously and didn’t know how to say it.
“What? Is a simple meeting with the Realm God so difficult? Old Man, just say it if you have something in mind, don’t walk around in circles with me.”
“Meeting the Realm God is definitely no problem, it is just that someone else wants to meet Young Noble as well.” Old Daoist Peng let out a wry smile.
“Who?” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and said. He then noticed the old daoist’s facial expression change greatly; after all, not too many things could escape Li Qiye’s eyes.
He took a deep breath and then sent a chilling gaze towards the old daoist as he asked: “Is it Magu?”
“Yes.” Old Daoist Peng rubbed his palms together and said: “The Matriarch wants to meet you.”
“You told her?” Li Qiye glared at him and spoke.
The old daoist’s heart shivered as if a fierce beast was stalking him. After becoming an ancestor, he had not felt this sensation for a very long time.
“Of course not, how could I dare to do so against your wishes? The truth is that I didn’t meet the Matriarch, but today, a message suddenly flew out from the Everlasting Courtyard and said that she wanted to meet Young Noble. In my opinion, the Matriarch saw you when you saved the Realm God.”
Li Qiye paused for a moment. Magu… The passage of time has eroded many matters, there were so many memories that should have just faded into the dust.
“If you refuse to go, it would be very awkward for me seeing as how I’m her grand-disciple.” Old Daoist Peng awkwardly smiled: “Heh, even if you go and meet Her Reverence, you won’t lose anything. Just go and meet her. Our academy’s disciples would dream for a meeting, but we are not allowed.”
Li Qiye softly sighed and said: “Fine, I shall meet her.” Inevitable matters couldn’t be avoided.
“Good! Excellent!” Old Daoist Peng happily exclaimed: “Then I will show you the way and finish my mission.”
“No, we will go meet the Realm God first.” Li Qiye spoke: “I will speak with the Realm God, then meet Magu later.”
“That is fine too.” Old Daoist Peng would agree with anything Li Qiye said as long as he was willing to meet Magu. The smiling old daoist stood up and quickly led the way in case Li Qiye suddenly changed his mind.
Deep in the academy, Li Qiye met the Realm God once more. Today, it was very vigorous and vibrant. Although the pine tree was not very tall, it seemed to be able to pierce the heavens. The Realm God towered like a monstrous giant, causing others to look up at him.
The Realm God could assume a human form, but since it took root in the academy, it preferred to maintain its original form and spoke with its divine will.
An ancient voice appeared: “The younger generation will surpass us in time… You dealt with my calamity and saved the Heavenly Dao Academy in exchange for a single favor — this is too advantageous for the academy.”
Li Qiye smiled and said: “It was just the natural order of things since both sides benefited. There was no reason for me not to do it.”
The pine tree seemingly nodded as if it was a person and said: “I can fulfill the promise whenever you wish.”
“The day will come.” Li Qiye smilingly replied: “But first, I have a small matter that requires your assistance.”
“Go ahead. If it is within my capability, I shall lend you a hand.” This was the Realm God, an unrivaled existence in the current world! It was surely capable of many things. Things deemed impossible by others could easily be dealt with by it.
“I want to visit the Sacred Nether World.” Li Qiye spoke: “Realm God can reach myriad domains, so I’m sure this matter will not be difficult?”
“To the Sacred Nether World?” The Realm God answered with surprise: “It is possible to take you to the Sacred Nether World, but I cannot guarantee the specific location of arrival.”
Chapter 358 - A Difficult Meeting
At this point, the Realm God paused for a bit before continuing: “The Black Dragon King’s battle against Immortal Emperor Ta Kong from back then destroyed the paths that connected the Nine Worlds. Now, the Difficult Dao Era has ended, and the Heaven’s Will will be aggregating in this world once more. However, the paths between the Nine Worlds still haven’t recovered, so these walls are impregnable. I can take you to the Sacred Nether World, but I cannot guarantee where you will land. The only thing I’m certain of will be that you will arrive somewhere in that world.”
“This is not a problem, as long as you can send me to the Sacred Nether World.” Li Qiye nodded his head and said.
“Then all is fine. But first, I have to let you know something. I can take you to the Sacred Nether World, but I cannot bring you back. In order to do so, my true body also needs to go to the Sacred Nether World, but that means I would have to leave the ancestral vein and the academy. Even if I agreed to this, the academy would want you to change the conditions.” The Realm God elaborated.
“You don’t have to personally come, I can solve this issue myself.” Li Qiye smiled then shook his head to say: “These old men from the academy would naturally be unwilling. Leaving the ancestral vein is an extremely difficult matter, not to mention that those old men are treating you as their treasured baby.”
The Realm God burst out in laughter and said: “Don’t blame them, it is I who is unwilling to leave this place. They are my little children that I have watched grow up.” At this point, it finished with a gentle sigh.
Li Qiye was silent. The longer the Realm God lived, the heavier its burden would become. It once wanted to leave, but in the end, it couldn’t let it all go.
To the Realm God, the academy was its home, and its disciples were his children; some of them were even taught by it. Just like it said, many ancestors were watched over by it, so it couldn’t bear to leave the academy.
A long time ago, Li Qiye once said that the Realm God’s success was due to the academy, but its undoing was also because of the academy.
Ultimately, the academy was its burden. Otherwise, it would have become an Immortal Emperor a long time ago, something that would shoulder the Heaven’s Will!
“How is the Void Gate?” The Realm God inquired.
Rumor has it that the Realm God and the Void Gate had a lot to do with each other. A high ancestor of the academy brought the mysterious Realm God back from the timeless portal, so some believed that it came from the Void Gate!
“One day, it will open again.” Li Qiye spoke with confidence: “Nine Grand Heavenly Treasures — who on earth could actually control them? However, the gate shall open once more in this generation, just wait and see.”
The Realm God nodded and finally lamented: “Nine Grand Heavenly Treasures… Oh how many people have yearned for them since the beginning of time, and how many Immortal Emperors dreamed for them to no avail. Maybe I will one day go and see it for it shall be my final destination.”
Li Qiye was not surprised to hear these words. To the Realm God, perhaps this was its best ending — returning to its roots!
“When do you want to go to the Sacred Nether World?” The Realm God finally asked.
“Very soon. When I am prepared, I will let you know.” Li Qiye answered.
This trip to the Sacred Nether World was not on a whim since there were a few things he wanted to make clear!
“Well, when you are ready, let me know any time.” The Realm God was a straightforward being and instantly agreed.
Li Qiye then left the Realm God’s dwelling. The moment Old Daoist Peng saw him, he said: “I will take you to the Matriarch.” His attitude indicated that he was afraid Li Qiye would change his mind.
Li Qiye gently sighed and nodded his head. Certain things were just inevitable, so the two of them headed to the Elegant Peak.
This peak was solitary amongst the vast territory of the academy. It was not the most grand or majestic mountain, but it was indeed beautiful, giving others the sensation that it was separated from the rest of the world.
A waterfall descended from the sky as if it was a path to the nine heavens. Above the peak and the waterfall, an ancient pavilion was floating without a care for the mundane world.
Its doors were closed and sealed by the grand dao. No one would dare to approach the doors that were locked with such a grand seal; they could only watch from afar in fear that they would disturb the tranquility.
Even the academy itself respected this tranquility. Within a radius of one hundred miles around this peak, all was very quiet. All the ancestors from the academy cultivated far away from this place since they didn’t want to bother the slumbering Matriarch. Other people definitely wouldn’t even come close to this horizon.
Standing below the Elegant Peak, Li Qiye told the old daoist: “I will go alone. There are some matters, some conversations that need to be resolved in private.”
The old daoist was startled and his heart rate started to rise. He didn’t know Li Qiye’s true origin, but he hoped that it had nothing to do with grudges or resentment. The academy did not wish to become enemies with someone like Li Qiye!
“Don’t worry, my ancestor is not antagonistic towards Magu.” Li Qiye saw through this thought and smilingly shook his head.
“Please send the Matriarch my best regards.” Old Daoist Peng sighed in relief and said as he quietly left.
Glancing at the peak with a heavy heart, Li Qiye began his ascent.
After reaching the top and standing before the old pavilion, he became a bit overwhelmed with memories. Many years had passed, but this place still contained those memories!
There was no physical lock on the door. It was, instead, sealed by the grand dao. Time, worldly affairs, and the heaven and earth were all sealed! All steps were paused, only an eternity of persistence remained. Perhaps this grand dao seal locked Magu’s dao heart so that it would forever remain peaceful and firm!
“You saved the Realm God. I have seen your methods.” In the end, a voice came from inside the ancient pavilion. It was an extremely transcendent voice, like the tone of a fairy who had successfully ascended from the mortal world. This voice was capable of soothing the hearts of all listeners.
“It was merely luck. There are a plethora of techniques in this world, so one of them would surely be the right one.” Li Qiye paused in silence for a bit before answering.
“The Kun Peng around your body with its countless dao… It is very rare.” The immortal voice emanated from the ancient pavilion again.
Li Qiye was speechless for he didn’t know how to properly respond. After a long silence, he put on an unfearful expression and answered: “I am a disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, and I cultivate the Kun Peng’s Six Variants with the blessing of my ancestor. The countless dao surrounding my Kun Peng is my ancestor’s will.”
“So that is the case.” The ethereal voice spoke once more: “But your mastery of the Perimeter of the Wise Sages was quite amazing and worthy of admiration. The elders of the academy had never seen someone so adept.”
This made Li Qiye’s heart jump. He could only sigh helplessly before finally answering: “I have read about it once from the wise sages’ records. I did a lot of research, thus I was proficient at it.”
The ancient pavilion became silent for a long time. Eventually, Li Qiye took a deep breath and said with a bow: “If Predecessor has no other questions, then this young one shall leave.” With that, he turned away and began to depart.
“Teacher—” However, before he could take two steps, a gentle voice called from inside.
Li Qiye, who intended to leave, became frozen. This word “teacher” was too familiar; it caused him to think about the young girl of that year.
Li Qiye took a deep breath before slowly turning around and saying: “Maybe Predecessor has the wrong person.”
“Teacher, I know it is you.” The ethereal voice appeared: “I cultivate the Eternal Physique that was taught to me by Teacher. Teacher’s Immortal Physique has reached minor completion, so the moment you stood here, I knew this Immortal Physique came from the Physique Scripture. You also once used a myriad of dao to seal your memories in the deepest parts of your mind. When I followed you back then, I felt the power of this seal; I know that besides you, no one else in this world could use the dao of Immortal Emperors to seal your sea of memories.”
Li Qiye stayed silent. Although he could hide his identity from others, he couldn’t hide it from this foolish Magu, someone who had always followed his teachings in an exemplary manner!
“That year when the Black Dragon King tore apart the heavens, I immediately knew something happened to Teacher. Unfortunately, my Eternal Physique cultivation was at a key moment and I couldn’t come into being from my hibernation to help the Black Dragon King sweep through all of Teacher’s hindrances!” A voice filled with emotions rang from inside.
“Meeting Teacher today shows me that the Black Dragon King was successful.” The clear voice continued on: “I am foolish and know that I cannot compare to the Black Dragon King, the other emperors, or many of your heavenly-blessed students. I understand and do not blame you for not wanting to meet me.”
Emotions ran rampant in Li Qiye’s heart. After so many years, this little girl still remembered such matters.
“You are mistaken.” Li Qiye gently shook his head and said: “I have always been proud of you from the depths of my heart. It is true that you are not comparable to that group like the Black Dragon King, who were capable of suppressing all eras, but you have an unrivaled dao heart that is capable of enduring the endless passage of time. This is something that they could not hope to have.”
“I should be thanking you.” Li Qiye softly sighed and said: “I had trained many Eternal Physiques, but you are the only one who was successful. A grand completion Eternal Physique is even harder to train than an Immortal Emperor.”
“Teacher, it really is you!” The ethereal voice exclaimed with excitement and surprise.
“So you tricked me.” Li Qiye let out a wry smile and shook his head to say: “So you were not certain.”
“I believed that it was Teacher.” The ethereal voice inside said with joy: “But I didn’t know whether you still had memories of me or not.”
Chapter 359 - Immortal Xu Chong
Overwhelmed with emotions, Li Qiye had no choice but to admit: “Time might be heartless, but there are things and some people that will never be forgotten. You were able to reach where you are today… To say the least, it is already very amazing. I am proud of you.”
“I want to meet Teacher.” Magu’s ethereal voice came from the ancient pavilion and was full of desire.
Li Qiye remained silent since he felt that it was better to not meet. He couldn’t help but force a smile as he spoke: “Maybe my arrival to the academy was a mistake. This is becoming a detriment to you.”
“No, it is a good thing for me.” The ethereal voice excitedly said: “At the very least, it will give me the desire to carry on! Teacher can shoulder eons, but after I had some success, you no longer came back to see me. However, I always knew that you were alive somewhere in the world! Then, the Black Dragon King suddenly seized the Heaven’s Will so I was worried that you would not be able to come back. I do not blame you for not wanting to see me, but I must see you.”
“No.” Li Qiye couldn’t help but let out a long sigh and said: “It would be better if you do not come into being. I will go meet you, instead. You still have a long way to go before reaching the apex of the Eternal Physique. Your grand dao has locked the world for a long time, so if you leave the seal now, it will require a lot of effort before you can lock it again. Don’t leave this pavilion and the seal. The heaven and earth might be outside, but your dao heart sealed the path; I will come to see you!”
“I knew that Teacher would want to see me!” Magu’s happy and surprised voice rang out. It was then followed by a clanking noise as the grand dao that locked the pavilion was unlocked. And so, the door quietly opened.
“Little Girl.” Li Qiye shook his head and smiled: “Everyone used to call you dumb, but I think that you are becoming more and more crafty.” Li Qiye stepped inside and the grand dao sealed the door once more.
Stepping inside resulted in a scene that drastically differed from the pavilion’s external appearance. The indistinct immortal air was everywhere as the heaven and earth formed its own world in this place.
Once one entered this domain, they would be immersed in this immortal energy that permeated their bodies, giving them a pleasant, floating sensation. At this moment, this immortal energy washed away all traces of the mortal world.
In this immortal land, a jade bed was situated in the middle. It was supported by an endless amount of immortal energy and was shrouded in innumerable auspicious lights.
A girl in her twenties laid atop the jade bed with her eyes closed in tranquility. She was adorned with a white silk robe and had ordinary facial features. However, others could stare at her forever without being tired; this ordinary face was the most beautiful masterpiece of the creator. There were no discernable flaws no matter what angle they viewed her from, nor could one get enough from gazing at this impeccable face.
It was the most ordinary type of beauty. It wasn’t a beauty that would steal one’s breath away, but the type that would garner even more love and adoration as time passed.
The immortal air that surrounded this girl was completely transcendent and was without any blemishes. It appeared as if the immortal land was strengthening her, but it was the opposite since she was the sole reason for this immortal scenery to exist.
Goddess Mei Suyao was also transcendent, but in the end, she lacked a certain something… Perhaps, calmness. However, this girl that was laying in front of him was truly untouched by mundanity. Her dao heart was as calm as this immortal scene, as serene as water at the bottom of a well, as if this would always remain unchanged.
Li Qiye gently sat by the bed and gazed at her ordinary yet beautiful features with a sigh. Regarding this matter, he was not comparable to Magu, who didn’t care about competing in this world. Her dao heart was eternal.
Li Qiye quietly sat and watched over Magu without speaking for a long time. Eventually, Magu gently opened her eyes. It was just like the beginning of the heaven and earth and the formation of the immortal land.
People once used this phrase to describe Immortal Emperors: when they open their eyes, a new world emerges; when they close their eyes, even eternity becomes extinguished! These words were not an exaggeration to describe Magu at this time.
“Teacher—” Seeing Li Qiye, Magu still couldn’t contain her emotions and said: “Teacher, I can finally see your original form!” Having said that, she reached out as immortal energy surrounded her pure hand.
She gently caressed Li Qiye’s face and whispered: “This is reality… It is not just a dream. Teacher, you really did escape from the Immortal Demon Grotto!” Unconsciously, tears began to drip from the corners of her eyes. These tears glistened like the nectar of immortals.
“Silly Girl, this is a happy occasion.” Li Qiye gently wiped away her tears and said: “You have sealed away worldly desires so you shouldn’t be joyous or sorrowful.”
“Since Teacher is still alive, it is all worth it.” Magu stopped crying and revealed the most beautiful and sincere smile in this world.
“Don’t be like this, you should return to tranquility. Having an eternal life is to let things take their own course of action, there is no need to be so emotional.”
“I will listen to you, Teacher.” Magu slowly closed her eyes with her brows fluttering like the wings of an elf.
She slowly calmed down. It seemed that, at this moment, she once again sealed the world and returned to an eternally unchanging state. However, her hands still tightly clutched Li Qiye’s hands with a sweet and peaceful smile on her face.
“Teacher, I have many things that I want to tell you.” Magu slowly spoke as she went back to her sweet, dreamlike state. At this moment, her dao became eternal and was full of life like shining sunlight. It was no longer desolate and instead became vibrant with fascinating and colorful tints.
“Silly Girl, I will reach the high heavens and become the eternal ruler in this generation, so we will have plenty of time later.” Li Qiye gently stroked her hair with a smile.
“Teacher, are you about to leave?” The peaceful Magu gripped Li Qiye’s hands tightly as if she was afraid that he would disappear if she were to let go.
“Yes.” Li Qiye said softly: “I am going to the Sacred Nether World soon. There are a few things that I need to deal with. But before that, I have some time to listen to you.”
“I want Teacher to teach me like before.” Magu revealed an ordinary yet sweet and beautiful smile that bloomed straight from the heart.
“No.” Li Qiye shook his head and replied: “I really do not have anything else to teach you because you have traversed on this path much further than I. You have a better grasp on the Eternal Physique than me; you are the unparalleled master on this matter. You are my pride! Geniuses and heaven’s proud children cannot reach the apex compared to you for none of them were able to persevere for so long.”
“But there are still many things I have yet to learn from Teacher.” Magu held onto Li Qiye’s hand like a child with a joyous smile.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but laugh before he finally spoke: “To me, what you have achieved is already enough. No one is more remarkable than you.”
Magu happily smiled, and the immortal land suddenly became jubilant as if myriad words finally obtained serenity. An elated atmosphere pervaded the entire space!
For the next while, Magu spoke about many things with Li Qiye. Immortal Xu Chong was the most mysterious and powerful existence in the present world. She was one of the two ancestors upholding the Heavenly Dao Academy, but she was still the little girl of the past in front of Li Qiye!
The joyous atmosphere lingered for a long time inside the ancient pavilion as the earth became happy. A myriad of existences became rejuvenated.
A long time later, Li Qiye knew that it was time to leave so he gently kissed Magu’s forehead and said: “You are only a little bit away from succeeding with your grand dao to lock the world. Keep on persevering and I shall wait for the day you come into being. I am certain that you will be successful.”
Magu eventually entered her slumber once again with a sweet smile. At this time, the immortal energy soared with dazzling immortal brilliances that shone onto this land. In this moment, Magu was eternal.
Deep down inside, Li Qiye was glad to see that Magu quickly entered the Eternal Physique state, and he slowly departed. After he left, the grand dao locked the pavilion again. Magu had now entered a deep slumber again. Perhaps the next time she woke up, her physique would reach grand completion, granting her eternal life!
Li Qiye left the Elegant Peak and went back to the academy. Actually seeing Magu was a good resolution to one of his main concerns, so this trip to the Heavenly Dao Academy could be considered complete.
He was always worried that meeting her would have an adverse effect on her, but he became relieved after seeing her state. She had reached a very far destination, and no one could compare to her even throughout the ages.
As the load on his mind became relieved, Li Qiye intended to leave. He was not going back to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, but to the Sacred Nether World instead to deal with a few matters.
As he was preparing for the trip, Chi Xiaodie suddenly rushed in one day while panicking. The moment she saw him, she quickly shouted: “Young Noble, please save my grandfather and little brother!”
“What happened?” Li Qiye grimaced and said.
“Xiaodao was captured and my grandfather is trapped right now. Only you can save them!”
“Don’t worry, just calmly tell me everything.” Li Qiye consoled her: “As long as I am here, it is not a big deal even if the gods and devils arrive.”
The flustered Chi Xiaodie finally managed to calm down and said: “This is because of Princess Bao Yun. My brother went to propose, but he didn’t expect to see the Tiger Howl’s School there…”
Chapter 360 - Chi Xiaodao In Trouble
So it was because Chi Xiaodao and Princess Bao Yun stuck together like glue. He intended to marry her!
As his grandfather, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King naturally supported his grandson.
Not to mention that Chi Xiaodao obtained a great creation in the timeless portal, so his future was quite bright. This gave him even more confidence in the success of this marriage proposal.
Before this, there had been a great development. The Bao Yun Clan was happy to form an alliance with the Tiger’s Howl School since Hu Yue’s future was quite bright due to being a contemporary genius.
Unfortunately, Hu Yue picked the wrong opponent this time and died miserably in Li Qiye’s hands, resulting in the failure of the marriage alliance.
Also, the Bao Yun Clan’s attitude towards Chi Xiaodao became better as well. First, it was because the two young ones were each other’s sunshine and they were completely unaffected by the clan’s influence. Second, Chi Xiaodao’s talents were not bad at all; he was not a heavenly genius like Hu Yue, but he still had a lot of potential.
The third reason was due to the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King coming out from his isolated cultivation. Rumor has it that his Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique had reached minor completion, and some even believed that he found a complete physique law from his ancestor.
He would become invincible the day he reached grand completion, so the Bao Yun Clan thought more highly of the Lion’s Roar Gate.
This was why the clan agreed to Chi Xiaodao’s proposal. Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King personally came to propose for his grandson!
However, the Tiger’s Howl School also came to propose. Although Hu Yue was dead, they still had other promising disciples.
No one knew whether this incident was a coincidence or a premeditated attack against the Lion’s Roar Gate.
They were both guests at the Bao Yun Clan, but Chi Xiaodao and another outstanding disciple of the Tiger’s Howl School got into a conflict. Chi Xiaodao killed that disciple out of anger, so the Tiger’s Howl experts took him captive.
The outraged Heavenly King killed his way into the Tiger’s Howl School in order to save Chi Xiaodao, but unexpectedly, not only was he unable to save Chi Xiaodao, he was also trapped inside the school’s secret ground.
Once Chi Xiaodie got the news from the other disciples, she immediately ran to Li Qiye for help. Since even her grandfather was trapped, only Li Qiye would be able to save her grandfather and brother.
“Young Noble, please save Grandfather and Chi Xiaodao.” Chi Xiaodie was on the verge of crying. Their Lion’s Roar Gate was completely powerless in these circumstances.
“Tiger’s Howl School…” Li Qiye rubbed his chin and said: “A bit interesting. If I am not mistaken, that place has a grand vein. Since they do not know life from death, I will have to make a trip.”
“No, you cannot.” At this time, Sikong Toutian, who previously disappeared, rushed out. He looked at Li Qiye and shook his head: “This is a trap.”
“What trap?” At this moment, Chen Baojiao, who was standing next to Li Qiye, asked in surprise.
Sikong Toutian immediately answered: “The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King is a powerful hero.” Having said this, he gave a thumbs up to Chi Xiaodie and continued on: “Think about it, the enraged Heavenly King entered the school. He should be unstoppable with his Immortal Physique so saving Chi Xiaodao should have been easy. However, he was actually trapped there as well! This is clearly something they had planned from the start.”
“A conspiracy aimed at Young Noble.” Sikong Toutian conversed with Li Qiye: “The enemy is prepared to bait us into a trap. Young Noble will have a hard time invading the Tiger’s Howl School.”
“This is true, but that only makes me want to go even more.” Li Qiye laughed without any fear.
Sikong Toutian busily said in a serious tone: “It is indeed true. Not only the Tiger’s Howl School, but other sects in the Eastern Hundred Cities are involved as well. Since they are not happy about Young Noble stealing emperor weapons from others, they might even summon an Immortal Emperor True Treasure.”
“Immortal Emperor True Treasure?” Li Qiye furrowed his brows and cheerfully said: “They want to gift me an Immortal Emperor True Treasure?”
When Li Qiye squinted his eyes, it frightened Sikong Toutian considerably, but he still reminded Li Qiye: “Young Noble, don’t go to the Tiger’s Howl School. Maybe it is not strong enough in your eyes, but their ancestral ground is very formidable. It is a White Tiger vein — extremely powerful. I have snuck into that place once, it is a ferocious vein!”
At this time, he continued on with a changed expression: “But this is not the worst part about the school. I snuck there to the place where the Tiger God started everything. There were four graves there, and the Tiger God’s grave was not one of them. They were extremely ancient and had fierce auras that pierced the sky. I believe that the school can borrow the invincible power of the four ominous graves! If these graves were to be opened, they could probably even kill a Virtuous Paragon! I think their intention is clear; they want to lead Young Noble to this place.”
“Then what should we do?” Chen Baojiao and Li Shuangyan were a bit alarmed. The Tiger’s Howl School had the home ground advantage so this was quite disadvantageous for them.
Chi Xiaodie was also worried: “Is there nothing we can do? Should we ask for assistance from others?” She was worried about her grandfather and brother, but she also cared for Li Qiye.
“Little Tou is wrong about this.” Li Qiye smilingly said: “I have been to the White Tiger vein before, and I also saw the four ominous graves. There is nothing to worry about. If this is all the Tiger’s Howl School has up their sleeves, then it is too disappointing.” 1
At this point, he pondered again. To be more specific, he had not only been to this ancestral ground, he also knew its true secret!
“Young Noble truly wants to go?” Sikong Toutian asked: “How about we find more experts to come with us, like the Ice Feather Palace?”
“No need.” Li Qiye smiled and looked at Sikong Toutian: “Do you think the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is involved, or would it be the Azure Mysterious Ancient Kingdom?”
“Haha, the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is in it for sure because the Tiger’s Howl School cannot handle this situation alone. Young Noble possesses two emperor weapons! Without their own emperor weapon, how could the school dare to do this? Although they are trying to be secretive, there is nothing that can be hidden forever in this world.”
“I heard the divine beast protector of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is still alive.” Li Qiye then calmly said while stroking his chin: “I wonder if it will come or not.”
These words frightened the group of Sikong Toutian. Chi Xiaodie turned pale and uttered in astonishment: “Is… Is that true? What if the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector actually comes? I heard that it was comparable to the divine protector of the Heavenly Dao Academy. They are both invincible!”
“If it actually comes, then this matter will escalate out of control.” Sikong Toutian’s scalp was tingling as if it was pricked by pins and needles: “That old thing is definitely not an undying, nor is it a legendary master. In my opinion, it is absolutely an existence of the eternal level! Existences of this level are extremely powerful. If it does come, then this this venture might be doomed from the start!”
Chi Xiaodie was aghast. Although she wanted to save her family, she also didn’t want Li Qiye to fall into danger.
“Who says it is doomed? I’m more worry about…” Li Qiye nonchalantly smiled and said.
“Worry about what?” Chen Baojiao interjected in a rush.
“I’m more worried that the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector does not come. It would be so boring if such an invincible existence does not come. Things would be much more exciting with its presence. Although that old man is called a divine beast, his bloodline really doesn’t belong to real divine beasts. Nevertheless, there is still a little bit of divine beast blood in him. This substance is extremely nourishing. He is a little bit old so his Longevity Blood might be lacking, but if he does come, I actually want to taste the blood of a divine beast!” Li Qiye licked his lips as he finished this sentence.
Sikong Toutian felt a chill running through his spine. He was already frightened by the possible appearance of the divine beast protector, but Li Qiye’s gaze was even more terrifying. It was as if he was the hunter and the Tiger’s Howl School was the prey.
“We’ll pay them a visit.” Li Qiye said with a broad smile: “It has been a while since I’ve seen a real grand event. I hope it is not like the sneak attack on the academy with only boring old undyings. Surely, some eternal existences buried underground might want to crawl out this time.” 2
Sikong Toutian took a deep breath and felt that not opposing Li Qiye was the most sensible decision of his life. As for Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao, they were already used to this.
Before leaving for the Tiger’s Howl School, Li Qiye called for Zi Cuining and said: “Let me borrow the Immortal’s Blood Spear for a few days.”
Zi Cuining handed over the strongest weapon that symbolized the Heaven Protector City to Li Qiye without any hesitation.
“Do you need me to pave the way for you?” Zi Cuining asked.
“No need.” Li Qiye gave off a sinister smile and said: “Without massacring a sect, a few people would think that I am made out of mud for them to mold however they wish. If someone wants to test my real capabilities, then I’ll fulfill their desire.”
Zi Cuining couldn’t help but give a smile with an irresistible charm.
Many people in the Eastern Hundred Cities paid attention to this event where the Tiger’s Howl School captured Chi Xiaodao and the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King. It was as if the conflict between the two sects had begun once more.
Great characters with deep insight knew that this was not just an incidental conflict, it was a premeditated plan!
“A fierce storm is coming, right?” A Mortal King couldn’t help but murmur: “It seems like, this time, blood will fill the rivers. I’m afraid a sect will disappear after this storm.”
But as for which sect will fall, no one could say for certain!
Chapter 361 - Tiger’s Howl School
Many people secretly talked about this conflict that was ignited by the imprisonment of Chi Xiaodao and the Heavenly King…
“The Tiger’s Howl School is really courageous. Do they not know that the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King has a really good relationship with many hall masters from the academy!?” An older cultivator couldn’t help but murmur after hearing such news.
Having heard that, another older cultivator shook his head in disagreement: “I’m afraid those ties will be useless. After the battle last year, many hall masters are either wounded or crippled, and some even died! I’m afraid no one will come and save the Heavenly King.”
“But the Heavenly King might not necessarily be trapped, I heard that his Immortal Physique had reached some level of success.” Another skeptic spoke.
In the Eastern Hundred Cities, the Heavenly King was considered a top level character, especially during the Difficult Dao Era. He was one of the renowned experts from the previous generation.
“Even a dragon cannot suppress a snake in its own nest; the Heavenly King entering the Tiger’s Howl School was not a wise move.” A sacred lord explained: “The school has a grand vein with a powerful ancestral foundation. The Heavenly King rushing in was the same as walking into a trap.”
“A murder must be paid with one’s life!” At this time, after capturing Chi Xiaodao and his grandfather, a representative from the Tiger’s Howl School announced.
A person from the school appeared. This was an old man that appeared to be around seventy years old. Although he looked to be nearing his end, his vitality still covered the sky. This was made especially apparent with the forty-nine divine rings circling his body; it was as if he was a venerable saint!
His presence caused the forty-nine divine rings to shoulder the sky like a giant standing between the heaven and earth. His Heavenly Sovereign aura was as powerful as a tsunami, causing the surrounding earth to shake as countless Named Heroes shivered in fear.
“Forty-nine divine rings, a Jewel Sovereign!”
A Named Hero felt the earth-rending pressure and murmured with dread in his heart.
Seeing this old man, a royal lord recognized his identity and exclaimed in astonishment: “The Tiger’s Howl School’s Prime Imperial Sire, he is still alive! Rumor has it that he had died during the Difficult Dao Era!” 1
“A monster that lived during the Difficult Dao Era and a once-incomparable genius… He still proudly swept over the eight desolaces even during that arduous time! Then, he was the Regent for six dynasties! And it seems that his cultivation is only one ring away from grand achievement Jewel Sovereign. What if he actually reaches the World Sovereign level?” Seeing this old man, those who knew his identity were quite shocked.
“It is already heaven-defying to be just one ring away from grand achievement, but he still shouldn’t be able to trap the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King, right?” Despite this, people were still suspicious of the event.
Heavenly Sovereigns also had their own classifications. From weakest to strongest, they are Little Sovereign, Grand Sovereign, Jewel Sovereign, World Sovereign, and Era Sovereign!
The distinction between these levels was very simple. When one reached the Heavenly Sovereign realm, they would have a divine ring. The greater the amount, the stronger the cultivation would be.
Nine was the number that represented the grand dao, so a Little Sovereign at grand achievement had nine rings. Thirty was the respective number for a heavenly revolution, so a Grand Sovereign at grand achievement had thirty rings. Fifty was the number of the grand change, so a Jewel Sovereign at grand achievement had fifty rings. Eighty-one rings were the number of a grand achievement World Sovereign, and ninety-nine rings were the number of a grand achievement Era Sovereign. 2
The Prime Imperial Sire of the Tiger’s Howl School was once a devilish genius during the Difficult Dao Era and the de-facto leader of six dynasties. Even though he was old, his blood energy was still as ferocious as before since he could reach the World Sovereign level at any time!
His appearance greatly changed the faces of many people, but the news he announced set off even more waves!
“Little Brat Li Qiye, you ordered the kid from the Chi Clan to kill my school’s disciple so today, a life shall be paid with a life! It will either be your life, or the life of Chi Xiaodao! The day of the full moon will be the day of the execution. You can decide it for yourself!”
The Prime Imperial Sire aimed straight for Li Qiye with a proclamation to the rest of the world! The school even invited all the sects to come watch the date for the sentence to be carried out!
This bold gesture confused many people, especially those who were not privy to all the information.
“Is this the Tiger’s Howl School killing the chicken to warn the monkey? Is this an attempt at taking revenge for Hu Yue?”
“The Prime Imperial Sire had no choice but to become involved since the Lion’s Roar Gate broke the marriage alliance between the Bao Yun Clan and the Tiger’s Howl School. It makes sense that the school would become angry. Its previous generation could not just be idle and take it!” A person analyzed the school’s action.
The feud between Li Qiye and the school was a commonly known matter since Li Qiye was the main culprit in breaking off this marriage alliance and killing Hu Yue.
“Could the Tiger’s Howl School actually deal with Li Qiye? This Li Qiye is a brutal monster!” A Demon Monarch valued Li Qiye greatly and said: “Brutal Li Qiye isn’t afraid of anything since he even dared to kill Heavenly Prince Qing Xuan and Great Child Yao Guang! The Tiger’s Howl School must be nothing in his eyes. Even if the Prime Imperial Sire wants to get involved, it would still not be enough because Brutal Li Qiye has two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures that would allow him to sweep through anything. Now, the school wants to provoke Li Qiye — they are just looking for trouble, right?”
Many scalps tingled as people thought about the two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures in the hands of a vicious person like Li Qiye. If he could actually unleash an Imperial Massacre, then the consequences would be too terrible for the imagination. 3
This was the reason why many sects did not want to come and observe the date of the sentence despite receiving invitations.
Think about it for a second, this was Brutal Li Qiye who didn’t even care for the Ancient Kingdoms, let alone a little Tiger’s Howl School. This was definitely a guy who would start massacring anywhere! Who would be willing to become enemies with him?
“Although Li Qiye’s fierce fame is soaring at the moment, it is hard to tell who the winner would be right now.” A truly powerful person with some information spoke: “The death of a few disciples is nothing. The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom hasn’t come out, and neither did the Azure Mysterious Ancient Kingdom. Not even did the Furious Immortal Saint Country make a move, but the Tiger’s Howl School is the one to start? This whole thing doesn’t make any sense! This is clearly baiting the enemy into a trap; if Li Qiye actually thinks that the Tiger’s Howl School is so weak to the point of being easily bullied, then he will die a miserable death.”
Disputes and conflicts were common occurrences. In fact, the Lion’s Roar School was much weaker than the TIger’s Howl School, so it was normal that it would be bullied by the school.
However, once the Prime Imperial Sire called out Li Qiye by name, many experienced cultivators sensed an abnormal atmosphere within this great subtleness.
In a short period of time, countless people looked towards the school and also at Li Qiye. They all want to see what Li Qiye would do to defuse this crisis.
“This is a trap.” An intelligence master of a great sect deduced: “Li Qiye, right now, is like the sun at high noon. His great fame is comparable to that of Goddess Mei Suyao’s; he is basically without anyone to oppose him! The school’s actions clearly reek of a planned trap for Li Qiye. If he actually jumps in, then he would be a fish in a jar, but if he doesn’t move against the provocation, then it would have an adverse effect on his prestige. Being afraid without battling — this would become a shadow in his heart, and it would be detrimental to his future road of cultivation.”
On the second day after the declaration made by the Prime Imperial Sire, Li Qiye immediately appeared right outside the Tiger’s Howl School. As one stared at it from afar, it seemed to be a giant tiger waiting to ferociously pounce at any time!
The current school was a powerful sect and controlled an entire country in the Eastern Hundred Cities. Legends state that its progenitor was a Tiger God — a True God blessed by the high heavens. No one knew whether this was the truth or not.
Regardless, anyone who stood outside the school would feel this powerful and fierce atmosphere as if a great tiger was swooping by, something capable of tearing apart any cultivator limb from limb.
A person who had visited the school before said with emotion after feeling this atmosphere once more: “No wonder why Hu Yue was as fierce as a tiger. A vein like this would surely groom such a genius!”
Many great sects lusted after the school because of one very simple reason — there was a grand vein beneath the school’s ground, a White Tiger Great Vein, a vein of one of the four divine beasts!
Another rumor one heard would say that the Tiger God was born in this place. Eventually, he was bestowed the title of True God, then he established the million-year-old school at this place!
It continued on to mention that the Tiger God was strengthened by this White Tiger Great Vein to build his supreme True God body. This great vein also became a hard-to-shake foundation for the school.
Also, many people could only come back empty-handed despite their desire for the White Tiger Great Vein because of another reason — the four ominous graves. These four graves had always protected the school; they created a defensive line that was unbreachable for even a Virtuous Paragon.
“This mountain has such a fierce atmosphere!” Chen Baojiao couldn’t help but exclaim after gazing at it with Li Shuangyan.
Li Qiye glanced at the school and smiled: “Of course it is fierce. This place used to have an ominous vein, so its propensity for violence is beyond your imagination.”
Many people secretly talked about this conflict that was ignited by the imprisonment of Chi Xiaodao and the Heavenly King…
“The Tiger’s Howl School is really courageous. Do they not know that the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King has a really good relationship with many hall masters from the academy!?” An older cultivator couldn’t help but murmur after hearing such news.
Having heard that, another older cultivator shook his head in disagreement: “I’m afraid those ties will be useless. After the battle last year, many hall masters are either wounded or crippled, and some even died! I’m afraid no one will come and save the Heavenly King.”
Chapter 362 - Charging into the Tiger’s Howl School Alone
“Do we just kill our way in like this?” Chi Xiaodie couldn’t refrain from being concerned and said: “I heard that the four ominous graves of the school are amazing and could kill even Virtuous Paragons!”
“No, we won’t make our way in at this moment. Go inform them!” Li Qiye glanced at the school and smiled.
“Inform them?” Hearing these words, the group of girls couldn’t help but become surprised. They came in order to save Chi Xiaodao and his grandfather, so the best method was to attack before the enemy could prepare. Thus, Li Qiye’s order left them in disbelief.
Li Qiye said with a smile: “I am a merciful man, someone who doesn’t like to kill others, right? Since they are near their demise, I have to give the poor Tiger’s Howl School a chance to let their young ones escape. After all, I can’t just go in and madly massacre them all with an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure, others would think that I’m a heartless butcher!”
Chen Baojiao couldn’t help but roll her pretty eyes; of course she didn’t believe him. With regards to aggressiveness, who could compare to him?
“Crash!” All of a sudden, with a loud bang, the Tiger’s Howl School started to violently shake. With rumbling noises everywhere, the earth itself was being rended apart.
“What happened!?” Due to the sudden ruptures, many people became shocked. Especially those who were right outside and gazing at the school, they were completely aghast!
“Who is it!?” Many of the Tiger’s Howl School disciples were terrified. When they calmed down, they found that the gate was completed demolished! No, it would be more accurate to say that someone smashed it apart.
At this time, the entrance was completely destroyed, and the golden plaque with the three words “Tiger’s Howl School” was under the feet of a young man.
“You ignorant fool!” The Tiger’s Howl disciples went mad. In the blink of an eye, more than ten of them rushed forward with all of their might.
“Bang—bang—bang—” The ground shook as mountains were blown apart. This young man not only blew away the disciples that rushed at him, but he also broke through all obstacles in his way like a raging dragon.
“Kill!” More Tiger’s Howl disciples rushed forward with loud battle cries. They were without any fear of death.
However, this youth was unstoppable and kept on rushing forward; no one could block his path. Both weapons and treasures were meaningless before him since they instantly shattered at the moment of collision.
“Rumble!” With violent quakes due to the mountains collapsing, the young man crazily rushed forward and crashed into the peaks, causing dust to scatter everywhere. All of a sudden, blood painted the sky as miserable screams resounded throughout the atmosphere. Countless mangled bodies flew everywhere.
“It is Li Qiye!” Many cultivators right outside the school spoke in astonishment when they saw this young man raging like a wild dragon.
“Little Animal, accept your death!” At this time, a maddened roar arrived alongside the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster. The moment he saw Li Qiye destroying everything in his unstoppable rampage, he cried out in rage and used a divine sword to create a thousand miles slash in order to kill Li Qiye.
With a loud bang, the sound of a sword breaking appeared as the schoolmaster spewed out blood nonstop. With a deafening crash, he was slammed into a mound with a hand gripping him by the neck.
He was beaten by just one move! Being heavily wounded by the opponent and having his neck clasped without even being able to move, the schoolmaster was horrified to the point where his face was as pale as paper.
“This is too devilish!” Seeing this scene, many spectators outside took a deep breath. In just a second, Li Qiye killed his way in and annihilated everything in his path.
“Even though the current schoolmaster cannot compare to the Tiger King, he is still an amazing Ancient Saint! How could he be defeated in the blink of an eye?” A person nervously exclaimed right outside of the school.
Li Qiye tightly gripped the school master’s neck and nonchalantly smiled: “Your Tiger’s Howl School wants to challenge me on the day of the full moon… Fine, I will accept this invitation. However, I will remind you out of goodwill — send the weak and the old to another location because, on the day of the full moon, there will be no more Tiger’s Howl School within the Eastern Hundred Cities for this place shall cease to exist!”
“You are spouting nonsense—!” The schoolmaster angrily shouted, but before he could finish, Li Qiye threw him forward through many mountains, creating loud explosions. As the schoolmaster stood up from the ground that was now stained with his blood, not even a trace of Li Qiye’s shadow remained.
“Little Animal, hand over your life!” At this time, a scream came from the deepest place of the school. A person soared up high as divine rings rotated around his body. His torrential blood energy could cause even the earth to tremble!
The Prime Imperial Sire came in just a flash and let out an enraged cry, but Li Qiye had already left. The moment he saw the debris and remnants of the gate, he started to shiver from rage.
“Little Animal, if I don’t hack you into a thousand pieces, I swear that I will no longer be human!” In the end, the Prime Imperial Sire uttered a harsh oath that reverberated throughout the entire school.
“He is indeed a brute possessed by a mad dragon. He’s capable of destroying the geography despite only being a Royal Noble. He can even kill Ancient Saints as if they are mere dogs.” Many people were filled with dread after seeing this scene.
“An Immortal Physique is indeed amazing. Hell Suppressing Godly Physique — this is indeed a good technique, something that is capable of driving people crazy from jealousy!” A person couldn’t help but sigh in an envious lamentation.
In many people’s opinions, a Royal Noble fighting against an Ancient Saint was akin to courting death. But at this moment, an Ancient Saint could not block a single one of Li Qiye’s blows! And this was only a prelude; if being at minor completion was already this powerful, then wouldn’t he be able to sweep through the world once he reached grand completion!?
After leaving the school, Li Qiye ordered Sikong Toutian to keep a close eye on the Tiger’s Howl School. Then, he brought the girls to a different location.
“Will anything happen to my grandfather and Xiaodao?” Chi Xiaodie worriedly asked.
Li Qiye answered with a smile: “Xiaodao is definitely going to be okay. Without Xiaodao, what will they use to lure me into the trap? As for your grandfather, I don’t think there is anything to worry about either. He is being suppressed inside an ancient treasure, but it might turn out to be a good opportunity for him. It is possible that the ancient treasure that’s trapping him is the Evil Devouring Energy. If your grandfather could withstand this, then there will be a big chance for him to surpass his physique’s minor tribulation! This is a test for him; if he cannot pass this test, then he would not be able to go any further in the future regarding his Immortal Physique.”
After hearing Li Qiye’s answer, Chi Xiaodie sighed with relief and stopped worrying.
Li Qiye had his reasons for not saving the Heavenly King. Although the king was the descendant of the Lion Monarch and had a natural Saint Physique with great talents, he didn’t cultivate the Immortal Physique Law at a young age. Despite him managing to find the Immortal Physique Law of the Lion Monarch in the academy later on, it still was not enough to improve his grand completion Furious Saint Physique.
Even after his isolated cultivation session, he still couldn’t break through his personal limit. However, this suppression from the Tiger’s Howl School just might be able to stimulate his true potential.
With just one glance from a distance, Li Qiye immediately knew the Heavenly King’s situation. If he could break through his own limit, then his Immortal Physique cultivation would be as smooth as a flowering river! And so, Li Qiye purposefully left him suppressed in order to spur his untapped potential.
“Where are we going?” Li Qiye brought them around the Tiger’s Howl School, so Chen Baojiao became quite curious.
Li Qiye answered with a wide smile: “To a certain place. If the Tiger’s Howl School wishes to die, then I shall lend them a hand. However, if they know when to give up, then I will leave them with a place to live instead of refining this entire region. At that time, there will be no Tiger’s Howl School or White Tiger Grand Vein.”
“Refine this entire region?” Hearing these words, Li Shuangyan became quite astonished. Legends state that only Virtuous Paragons from kingdoms that could bestow divine titles were capable of such a feat.
“You will understand in due time.” Li Qiye revealed a mysterious grin.
***
“There will be no more Tiger’s Howl School within the Eastern Hundred Cities for this place shall cease to exist?” The fierce words that Li Qiye left behind for the schoolmaster had spread to the outside, and it caused many people to glance at those next to them.
“Let him come!” A gloomy voice came from the darkness of the Tiger’s Howl School. It continued on: “Even if his divine arts are invincible, as long as he sets foot inside our domain, there will be no way out. At that point, the invincible Immortal Physique Law and a Heaven’s Will Secret Law will belong to the Tiger’s Howl School!”
“I’m afraid the Heavenly Dao Academy will also involve itself…” In the darkness, the Tiger’s Howl Prime Imperial Sire spoke with deference.
“Hmph! Even if the academy comes, it will still be a path of no return!” The voice in the dark coldly rang again: “At that time, there will naturally be someone to deal with them.”
“Good, at that time, that little demon Li will be a fish stuck in our jar. Even if he is a reincarnated Virtuous Paragon, only death awaits him!” The Prime Imperial Sire excitedly declared.
“As long as we obtain these immortal laws, with our White Tiger Great Vein, we shall be prosperous in the future!” This gloomy voice was so emotionless that it instilled chills in the listeners.
After hearing these words, the Prime Imperial Sire couldn’t help but become emotional. Despite many geniuses appearing in their school, they still couldn’t compare to other Immortal Emperor lineages since they lacked merit laws of the emperor level.
If they could capture Li Qiye alive, his emperor laws would be within their grasps; the mere thought left them in ecstasy.
“Do we just kill our way in like this?” Chi Xiaodie couldn’t refrain from being concerned and said: “I heard that the four ominous graves of the school are amazing and could kill even Virtuous Paragons!”
“No, we won’t make our way in at this moment. Go inform them!” Li Qiye glanced at the school and smiled.
“Inform them?” Hearing these words, the group of girls couldn’t help but become surprised. They came in order to save Chi Xiaodao and his grandfather, so the best method was to attack before the enemy could prepare. Thus, Li Qiye’s order left them in disbelief.
Chapter 363 - Underground Secret
The announcement of Li Qiye rampaging throughout the Tiger’s Howl School set off waves across the Hundred Eastern Cities.
“He wants to destroy the Tiger’s Howl School?” Many people became dumbfounded after hearing such arrogance. One of them couldn’t help but speak sincere words: “The Tiger’s Howl School is a first rate sect with a powerful ancestral foundation. The lowest requirement for destroying this school has to be the appearance of a Virtuous Paragon, and this is under the condition that the ancestor of the school is not there!”
“That’s right. Although Li Qiye is indeed fierce, saying that he will destroy the school is a bit too crazy!” Many people continued to speculate that this matter was impossible while others believed that Li Qiye had reinforcements.
In the eyes of many others, without reinforcements, Li Qiye alone would not be able to destroy the school.
This was not without reason. Since the school was able to stand strong for so long, they naturally had some heaven-defying means. Plus, rumors indicated that they had four ominous graves that were erected after the deaths of the four divine beasts.
Legends state that the progenitor of the Tiger’s Howl School used his divine blood to refine these four ominous graves, turning them into the school’s foundation and firmly placing them under the school’s control. Some old tales claim that these graves once annihilated a Virtuous Paragon and even trapped an existence worthy of the investiture of a god.
“They’re just big words from a calf that doesn’t fear a tiger!” After hearing such boisterous words, a person coldly sneered: “He will surely die after entering the Tiger’s Howl School with no way out.”
“Just wait until the day of the full moon. Then, everything will become clear.” There were also those who adopted a wait-and-see attitude.
In fact, after Li Qiye’s departure, the school ordered a group to follow him, but they failed to catch up and returned empty-handed.
However, unbeknownst to many, Li Qiye did not go very far. He simply took a trip around the Tiger’s Howl earth vein to another location.
If the great vein of the TIger’s Howl School resembled a gigantic White Tiger, then the school’s gate was the tiger’s mouth! The entire vein spanned from south to north, resulting in a scene where the south was the mouth and the north was the tail.
Although the great vein was as fierce as a White Tiger, the mouth was the key location of this ancestral ground where the worldly essence filled the earth, creating a treasure ground. This was why they used this place to build their dao foundation along with the temples and halls!
However, at its tail was a barren land that ran for a thousand miles. This large area was empty without any vegetation or inhabitants; not even birds chose to fly above this land of death.
The worldly essence had dried out in this place without any signs of life. Even if this place was part of the Tiger’s Howl great vein, no one lived here so the school did not establish a branch at this place.
Li Qiye brought the girls to enter this empty and treeless landscape.
“What did we come here to do?” After entering this barren land, even Chi Xiaodie couldn’t help but ask. Right now, since they were facing a powerful enemy, they should be calculating and planning some strategies, but Li Qiye decided to come to this place that even birds had abandoned.
“To find coffins.” Li Qiye cheerfully said: “Since we want people to die, it won’t do if we don’t have any coffins.”
Needless to say, the girls did not believe his words. In fact, even Chi Xiaodie was skeptical. Nevertheless, they were curious so they could only follow him despite his secrecy.
“Millions of miles along with the endless vicissitudes of life… There are some things that will not change.” Stepping into this place, Li Qiye emotionally said as he stood before a huge, dry lake.
“Open!” Once Li Qiye circled around the dry lake, a divine light eventually surfaced in his sea of memories. A strand of universal light shot up and rushed into the ground in a split second.
“Rumble!” At this moment, the earth roared as the dry lake split apart like the opening of a door.
The group suddenly fell down, causing them to be startled. The moment they regained their wits, they found that the entrance on the lake had closed.
At this point, they took a look around to examine the ground that they were standing on and found countless broken walls and temples!
They now understood that they were standing within an underground city. This huge underground city was already destroyed; most likely, it was ravaged by a terrible war.
“What is this place?” Ruins were the only things within their horizons so the group of Chi Xiaodie was quite astonished.
“Tiger Emperor Citadel — an ancient and once-powerful existence.” Li Qiye took a quick glance around this place and answered.
“Tiger Emperor Citadel? Which lineage is this?” Li Shuangyan and the others glanced at each other in confusion since they had never heard of this lineage before.
In fact, it was not strange that they had not heard of this place because millions of years had passed and countless great powers had come and gone amidst the winding river of time.
Li Qiye brought them along through this ruined city and stopped at a broken ravine. Before them was a large lake. Even though it was smaller than the one at the surface, it was filled with rippling waves!
The group was quite amazed as they stood before this huge river since the rippling waves were not the only thing present, immortal energy was also drifting about.
This was not a lake, it was a heavenly accumulation formed by the condensation of worldly energy! A heavenly accumulation the size of a river — how could others not be shocked by this? This was enough to fuel an entire great power to become an everlasting pillar for an unshakable dynasty!
“What is it!?” Seeing this huge heavenly lake, all were dumbfounded. If they could cultivate and absorb the worldly essence in this place for one year, then it would be equivalent to cultivating outside for a hundred years.
“Thunk, thunk, thunk!” However, Li Qiye didn’t answer them. A thick, iron chain appeared in his grasp out of nowhere. Li Qiye then began to pull on it, emitting clanking sounds.
“This is the legendary Phoenix Treasure Iron!” Li Shuangyan immediately recognized the origin of this iron chain along with its scintillating divine glow.
She couldn’t help but take a deep breath. Using such a precious treasure iron to make chains — what kind of extravagant spending was this?
While the rest of the group was still lost in a daze, Li Qiye pulled a gigantic coffin out from the lake. This monstrous coffin was also made from Phoenix Treasure Iron, but the most terrifying thing was that there were many layers of seals above it. These seals were extremely powerful; they contained the suppression of True Gods, and it made people’s hair stand on end.
What could be in this coffin that warranted so many layers of powerful seals? It was as if they wished to refine the thing inside.
“I command you to open!” At this time, Li Qiye’s hands formed a seal as he chanted a mantra. A universal law with the appearance of a key rushed out from his sea of memories and into the coffin in just an instant.
A clicking sound appeared as if a lock had just been opened. At this time, the seals that locked this coffin appeared to come to life as they started to move. One layer after another, everything slowly became unlocked.
“Xsh—xshh—xshh!” Amidst the sounds of the coffin opening, under the careful gaze of the girls, the coffin was finally opened, but the item inside left them in a stupor.
Inside the coffin, one could only find a simple boulder. To be exact, it appeared to be a stone pillar, but it was completely flat. With runes coming together, it was as if the runes were trying to weave together to form words of the grand dao! The entire boulder appeared to be pristine and without any flaws.
“After millions of years of refinement, the evil finally disappeared so it went back to its original form!” Li Qiye gently tapped on the boulder and said: “If it wasn’t for the Tiger’s Howl School’s refusal to learn, I wouldn’t have decided to break their roots today!”
“What is this?” The perplexed Chi Xiaodie asked after seeing this boulder. Using a powerful seal that was comparable to the suppression of True Gods to trap a simple boulder — no one would believe such a tale.
“The Terra’s Root!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “The only reason why the school has this White Tiger Grand Vein is due to this root.”
“The Terra’s Root?” Li Shuangyan and the others had a hard time believing it after seeing such a boulder. However, after a careful look, this boulder did give off an extraordinary feeling since it was naturally formed and was without even the slightest flaw. It was not a precious stone, but those with keen eyes knew that it was even better than one.
“This land had once taken part in creation.” Li Qiye movingly said: “During the Ancient Ming Era, this land gave birth to five existences; one of them became the master and the others became the four servants. Since they were created by the heavens, these five existences became invincible rulers and created the Tiger Emperor Citadel. This was a giant monster that had reigned over a period of time in the Eastern Hundred Cities! Unfortunately, they did not cherish their futures and chose to embrace the evil path; they helped the tyrant and joined the Ancient Ming!”
Chapter 364 - Tiger Emperor Citadel
Just as Li Qiye said, this place gave birth to five extremely powerful spirits, and the master among them was formed from this Terra’s Root. The other four spirits were formed from the rivers and mountains with the images of a True Dragon, a White Tiger, a Vermilion Bird, and a Black Tortoise.
Unfortunately, although the leading spirit could be described to be unparalleled, it failed to cherish its fortunate creation from the heavens and allied itself with the tyrannical Ancient Ming.
That era belonged to the Ancient Ming, so after the Tiger Emperor Citadel joined the Ancient Ming, they swept through the world and suppressed the human race under their new banner.
At that time, as the Dark Crow, Li Qiye became infuriated and led numerous sages and generals of the human race to sweep through the Tiger Emperor Citadel. This was a thrilling grand battle and the killing shattered even the heaven and earth as blood flowed like rivers.
In the end, they managed to destroy the citadel, and from then on, it sank into the ground where the world would no longer know of its existence.
Li Qiye slayed the leading spirit and destroyed its body to ultimately sever the Terra’s Root. Then, he ordered his sages and True Gods to use a heaven-defying method to suppress this root underground in order to refine it for millions of years.
Since the leading spirit was created from this land, Li Qiye’s goal when he sealed the Terra’s Root underground was to allow it to — once again — nurture this land so that a miracle would manifest again.
As per Li Qiye’s expectations, this land finally had another creation. Following the refinement of the Terra’s Root, the endless worldly essence finally nurtured this entire place, allowing it to transform into a White Tiger Grand Vein.
Later on, the progenitor of the Tiger’s Howl School obtained this creation. He started out as a regular white tiger that eventually cultivated into a Tiger God and erected this timeless school.
“The Mortal Emperor World is the sanctuary of the human race, so how could anyone allow for an external race to disturb this peace!?” Li Qiye calmly told the tale: “The Tiger Emperor Citadel joining the Ancient Ming was akin to seeking their own death, so it was eventually destroyed by the human wise sages and sank into the earth. After many years, this place finally turned into a White Tiger Grand Vein; the Tiger’s Howl School came later.”
After hearing the tale, Chi Xiaodie and the others couldn’t help but become surprised. They didn’t expect that the school was founded on top of another monstrous heritage.
“How did you know that the Tiger Emperor Citadel was under this earth?” Chen Baojiao just had to ask.
“This is why I told you to read more; read more to know more!” Li Qiye smiled and gently knocked on Chen Baojiao’s forehead.
She then angrily glared at him in response. She knew that this would be his response, and she didn’t trust it one bit! However, even though she knew that it was not going to work, she still wanted to hear a different answer!
“It is time for this earth to change owners!” Li Qiye smiled and then shook his head to say: “Establishing a timeless sect is not easy. In consideration of their ancestors being able to surpass all tribulations, I initially didn’t want to take away their grand creation and the vein. Alas, it is quite a pity… Time after time, they are without eyes, thinking that the tiger could actually eat me. They’re merely seeking their own death.”
Li Shuangyan’s crowd remained silent. The school was now doomed to a tragedy that consisted of a severed grand vein. Even if it was lucky enough to survive, its future would certainly be on the decline.
Eventually, Li Qiye took out a piece of dao bone; this was Little Silly’s dao bone. Li Qiye was quite unwilling, but he ultimately said: “Go. Whether or not you can obtain this place’s new creation will be up to your own fate. I hope that in another hundred thousand years, you will be able to rise again from this land!” Having said that, he then threw the dao bone into the depths of the great lake.
“Boom!” With an explosion, the earth itself trembled as if a dragon had dove into a river. As a dragon roar resounded, the dao bone disappeared into the river’s depths!
Li Qiye gently sighed as he watched the dao bone disappear into the river made out of worldly essence. This place was a supreme treasure earth; if it wasn’t, then he wouldn’t have ordered the wise sages and True Gods to seal this place.
However, whether Little Silly could rise and defy the heavens would be up to its own fate. And even if it could, it might not possess its former memories.
Despite that, this would still be a good thing for Little Silly. At the very least, it was a rare opportunity since it would be reborn if it could seize the creation from this land!
Li Qiye calmed his thoughts and looked at the Terra’s Root within the coffin, then he told the girls: “Keep watch for me, I want to refine this place into a domain!”
After hearing his words, the girls felt a chill. Then, each of them, very carefully, went to surround Li Qiye in order to protect him.
Li Qiye took a deep breath and, with a boom, his master palace appeared. In the blink of an eye, the other Fate Palaces also emerged in an orderly fashion.
Li Qiye channeled his dao foundation as a primordial Kun Peng soared to the sky. Within the chaos, the six Fate Palaces arranged themselves in a mysterious order and instantly formed a world. With a loud bang, his six Fate Palaces appeared to be six pillars that shouldered this newly formed world!
Six palaces to form a domain, eight palaces to form a kingdom. At this time, with six Fate Palaces, Li Qiye could refine this world to shape it into his very own absolute domain!
As Li Qiye’s Fate Palaces were shouldering this vast domain, with a whistle, the Kun Peng flew into this area. As the primordial chaos ran rampant like a raging thunderstorm, it flapped its wings, wings that flooded this entire world.
This chaotic energy descended as if it was nourishing this vast space, as if it wanted to give birth to countless existences in the future.
“Go!” With a loud shout from Li Qiye, the sealed Terra’s Root was sucked in by Li Qiye’s domain.
“Let me give you life!” Li Qiye screamed out. The master palace opened up as the four images inside the palace appeared. At this time, the endless green brilliance of the Tree of Life poured down; the water of life flowed endlessly, and the fire of life burned brightly, giving this land a new hope.
The most powerful thing was the Pillar of Life. It had underwent a great change after absorbing the mysterious and ancient runes from the Void Gate. With strange hums, the pillar directly shot out orderly divine chains to form supreme universal laws on this earth. All existences and universal laws were derived from Li Qiye’s will!
At this time, Li Qiye’s Pillar of Life was simply too powerful; it could directly create supreme orders. Li Qiye’s will was the ruler of all things — this was an incomparable dominance!
With the assistance of the four images and the supreme refinement of the universal laws, the Terra’s Root was embedded into Li Qiye’s absolute domain. It furiously spewed out worldly essence to nourish this land as if it would start to erect kingdoms and capitals after new living beings were born.
However, inside Li Qiye’s endless territory, even the Terra’s Root’s powerful worldly essence was far from enough. At least, it was not enough for this short period of time.
“Go!” Li Qiye uttered a cry once more. His absolute domain appeared in front of the lake before him. With nonstop deafening booms, this domain began to swallow the worldly essence in the lake!
In this short moment, it was as if the mountains and rivers were reversed as countless worldly essences were siphoned by Li Qiye’s absolute domain. In an instant, his domain was filled with dense and pervasive worldly essence.
While the unstoppable devouring continued, his Kun Peng dao foundation turned into strands of supreme universal laws that descended and coiled themselves around the Terra’s Root. These strands then engraved themselves into the root’s body and started the refinement process.
“Buzz!” Li Qiye’s True Fate came out of his master palace. Although the sound was very quiet, like a thin pair of wings flapping in the vast heaven and earth, the True Fate appeared inside this absolute domain in just a flash.
“Poof—Poof—Poof—!” Refined flames spewed out everywhere. Li Qiye’s True Fate carved his divine will onto this Terra’s Root and turned it into the root’s new heart. This way, the root and Li Qiye’s Fate Palace would forever be connected. Now, Li Qiye’s will could control the root from this point on. Although the root was granted its own consciousness by Li Qiye, it was in the form of Li Qiye’s will!
At the same time, with the Pillar of Life continuously carving orderly laws onto the root along with the burning flame of life’s refinement, the root became even more primordial as if it was returning to the true origin. All of its flaws were incinerated by the powerful flame of life into dissipating green smoke…
The day of the full moon was ten more days away, but it passed by in just an instant.
In the last ten days, a huge storm was set off in the Eastern Hundred Cities, and many secret channels began to act; each began their own preparations.
Numerous powerful experts maintained a great distance from the school despite the school inviting all the sects in the region to come and watch the execution. The vast majority of the sects were not willing to become involved in these muddled waters, so even those who came to spectate did not become the school’s guests, they merely stayed far away to watch.
There were even those who came with hidden intentions. They concealed themselves in the dark to watch the development, hoping that they could take advantage of the situation!
Chapter 365 - The Start Of The Battle
The day of the full moon arrived very quickly as countless experts gathered outside of the Tiger’s Howl School. Some came from the great powers while others from the smaller ones, and don’t forget about the vagabonds as well.
At this time, the Tiger’s Howl School’s gate was wide open. The important defensive locations and grand formations were relaxed to give a hospitable appearance. Although there were sounds of explosions and moving treasures, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King still could not escape from the ancient treasure.
Seeing this situation of carelessness, many people were startled and murmured to themselves: “The Tiger’s Howl School is too confident. It looks like they are more afraid that Li Qiye wouldn’t come!”
The experts from all over the world held their breaths and gazed towards the school, eagerly awaiting for Li Qiye’s arrival.
Meanwhile, the inside of the school was quiet. Although its disciples were still there, it was frighteningly calm as if respiration was the only sound to be heard.
Time began to pass, but Li Qiye still hadn’t appeared. At this time, a spectator outside the school became impatient and grunted: “Why is Li Qiye not here yet!?”
Compared to the spectators outside, the school was able to remain patient. They were not in a rush to start the execution; it was as if they would not start until Li Qiye arrived.
In fact, to the school, executing Chi Xiaodao was meaningless. Chi Xiaodao and the Heavenly King were just bait for Li Qiye. If both of them died, what would they use to force Li Qiye to take the bait?
However, time continued to go on as the sun rose higher and higher. The observers outside of the school began an uproar: “It has been half a day, don’t tell me that Li Qiye is too scared to come?”
“That is impossible, a fierce brute like Li Qiye wouldn’t be afraid of anything.” An expert who had watched the battle at the Heavenly Dao Academy shook his head and said: “The word ‘fear’ is not part of this Little Demon’s vocabulary. He even slew people from the Ancient Kingdoms, so how could just a little Tiger’s Howl School frighten him?”
“Hey, this is not necessarily the case. Inside the academy, there were those from the academy protecting him; naturally, he would be more courageous. Now, this place is the home ground of the Tiger’s Howl School — the fierce beast’s lair. I’m afraid he doesn’t have the courage to seek his death here.” A disciple from an Eastern Hundred great power sneered.
After the battle at the academy, Li Qiye could be said to have offended a lot of great powers, so many of them considered him as an eyesore — a thorn in one’s side!
“Heh, this Li guy is not coming!” Another disciple from a great power said with an offensive attitude: “Maybe this guy is hiding at some turtle’s cave right now, not daring to come out. Maybe he is already pissing his pants and shivering in fear!”
A few powerful experts furrowed their brows to these offensive comments, especially those who were from the minor sects or walked on the vagrant way that supported Li Qiye.
“Wow, you are so amazing! To be able to say these words… But where were you when Li Qiye was massacring everything on the battlefield? Are you courageous enough to say these words in front of Li Qiye? Hah, I’m afraid you would be the one pissing your pants while standing before him. Who the hell do you think you are? Li Qiye killed Hu Yue, slew Ba Xia, and ended Heavenly Prince Qing Xuan; all of these geniuses were decimated by him, and all of them were renowned throughout the Eastern Hundred Cities! Which great character have you killed?” A cultivator was annoyed with the comments from the great power’s disciple so they ironically replied.
“You!” The great power’s disciple glared with his eyes, but the cultivator who retorted sarcastically also had some background, so he glared back without showing any signs of weakness.
Such minor conflicts could only be considered the interlude. The great characters who were actually waiting for this battle managed to stay patient.
“This is a death trap!” A wise master carefully observed the school from afar and eventually said: “Regardless of whether Li Qiye comes or not, he will not be able to change the outcome. If he comes, his death is all but certain; same with the grandfather and grandson. If he doesn’t, then those two will still die!”
After hearing these words, the wisdom master’s junior couldn’t help but say: “But Li Qiye is a powerful brute! He cultivates an Immortal Physique and possesses two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures. The school does not have anything that can stop these weapons, not even the Prime Imperial Sire is capable of doing so. I feel like Li Qiye’s chances of victory is a lot higher.”
The wisdom master shook his head and said: “If it was only the Tiger’s Howl School, then Li Qiye indeed has the greater chance of victory. Even though the four ominous graves are extremely powerful, with two Immortal Emperor Life Treasures, as long as he does not become enamored by the love of battle and strikes quickly before leaving, then he could still escape under the weapons’ protection. But now, the situation has completely changed. Even if he has emperor weapons along with powerful allies, it would still be going head-first into a net if he enters.”
Without a doubt, this wisdom master knew information that others were not privy to, along with a few surprising secrets.
“The Tiger’s Howl School has backup?” After hearing the words of his senior, the junior became quite disturbed. In the end, Li Qiye had many enemies in the Eastern Hundred Cities. Many would find great joy in exterminating him.
“Not only backup!” The wisdom master sighed and said: “This is something that would slay god and devils if they stand in its way. This is a dead end, there is only death awaiting him!”
The group of juniors all became aghast. They quickly asked: “What kind of character did the Tiger’s Howl School invite?”
“An extremely frightening existence, extremely frightening!” The wisdom master looked at the school and sighed softly.
Now, the sun finally reached the apex in the sky, and the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster sneeringly said: “Hmph, that Little Demon Li doesn’t dare to come. Take them out and execute them; the younger one first, then the old!” The crowd’s furor resounded as the execution order was given out. Those who had a vendetta against Li Qiye were delighted and one even laughed: “Li Qiye is really a turtle hiding in his shell!”
“Yep. What is this about a fierce brute? In my eyes, he is only a weak, cowardly dog. He only knows how to bully the weak and fear the strong. At the critical moment when facing a powerful sect, what is he now doing besides hiding in fear…” Another disciple from a great power became very elated. It was as if Li Qiye not daring to show up was an extremely satisfying event in his mind.
“Pa!” Before he could finish speaking, a violent slap sent all of his teeth to the ground, causing him to lose all sense of direction.
“Who, who sneak-attacked your father!?” This cultivator struggled to stand up and finally screamed out.
“Who do you think it is?” At this point, a lazy voice spoke. Li Qiye slowly arrived with Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao at his sides.
In an instant, Li Qiye stood right outside of the Tiger’s Howl School. He then took a glance at all the heroes from all over the world and calmly said: “There are those who are annoyed with me, and I personally hope that they will step up. I am a very fair person; those who wish to get even with me can step out so that I can deal with you along with the Tiger’s Howl School today!”
However, no one dared to step out as everyone held their breaths. The badgering disciples from earlier went pale and hid at the back. Not to mention stepping out, they didn’t even dare to meet Li Qiye’s eyes; their legs wouldn’t stop trembling.
Who did not know about Li Qiye’s notoriety? Even the descendants from the Ancient Kingdoms were slain like dogs, so how could these ordinary disciples possibly compare to them? They were simply mouthing off at Li Qiye since he did not appear.
Li Qiye was too lazy to care about these insignificant characters. He stood right outside the school and stared at the recently rebuilt gate; he couldn’t help but reveal a smirk. He then stomped down with his foot and, with a “boom”, the recently rebuilt gate immediately collapsed again under this blow. Li Qiye then entered the school as if he was taking a leisurely stroll.
“Little Animal, you’re seeking your death!” This enraged countless Tiger’s Howl disciples. They furiously screamed and several hundred disciples who were guarding key locations suddenly rushed forward.
To a great power, the gate was their face and honor. Li Qiye stomping on their gate was equivalent to stomping on the Tiger’s Howl School’s face.
However, even when facing the murderous onslaught of several hundred disciples, Li Qiye didn’t even bat an eye. He still gracefully sauntered into the school.
“Zhang!” Suddenly, the sounds of a sword and saber appeared. Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao immediately took action. One turned her sword into Yin and Yang as a grand formation came down murderously with the resonation of myriad swords. The other’s saber could even sweep through the heavens with its invincible momentum. This saber could annihilate all in its domineering path.
One with the Six Dao Sword and the other with the Tyrannical Immortal Saber. Both of them attacking at the same time painted the sky with a sanguineous picture. In just a short amount of time, several hundred disciples died before they could even scream.
This scene left many in horror. Li Qiye’s ferocity was something known by many people, but they didn’t expect that the flower-like beauties, Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao, would also be so crazily powerful. They both had auras capable of sweeping through the world.
“This is what a real man looks like!” Countless people were envious of Li Qiye’s maids for being so heaven-defying. However, Li Qiye was even more heaven-defying to have such heaven’s proud daughters as his maids in the first place!
Chapter 366 - Dual Dominating Beauties
“Kill them!” The Tiger’s Howl disciples roared and suddenly, a few thousand disciples rushed out with a surging murderous momentum like a grand army. The school being able to survive until this day was not without reason.
“Get back!” At this time, the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster yelled out and recalled all the disciples who were ready to kill. He knew that ordinary disciples — no matter the number — were only mere fodder.
“Zhang!” However, before the several thousand disciples could retreat, a sword hymn soared through the nine heavens and the saber swept through the eight desolaces. The Six Dao Yin Yang Sword Formation flew out from Li Shuangyan’s hand. This extremely monstrous sword formation created thousands of blades of wind that acted like a meat grinder; in just a split second, a rain of blood appeared inside the formation as scraps of flesh flew everywhere.
The Tyrannical Immortal Saber in the sky swept through all by cutting down mountains as if they were leaves. This invincible saber caused blood to spurt like a spring, creating flowers of blood.
At this moment, Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao paved the path for Li Qiye with their domineering might. This was a path to enter the ancestral ground of the Tiger’s Howl School, leaving rivers of blood and mountains of carnage behind them.
Such a murderous momentum caused countless spectators to become breathless. Even Ancient Saints would surely die if they tried to stop this unstoppable force!
“Too domineering!” Seeing such a scene, no matter who they were, chills would spread throughout their shivering bodies.
The Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster’s expression became extremely unsightly. He didn’t even have time to respond, so he almost vomited blood from anger. These several thousand disciples, that were the pillar of the school, were massacred in just a blink.
He wanted to invoke the grand formations due to wrath, but the deep voice of the Prime Imperial Sire appeared behind him: “Let them enter!”
A moment later, no one dared to stop the group of three as they quickly entered the heartland of the school!
When Li Qiye stepped into the ambush range of the school, all of those who were inside took a sigh of relief. He had entered the trap and there was no chance for him to leave!
At this point, numerous people right outside of the school were also eagerly watching the scene unfolding before them.
“You choose to not walk on the paved path towards heaven and instead barged into hell without an entrance; Little Animal, today will be your demise!” The Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster clenched his teeth and declared with all of his hatred towards Li Qiye.
Li Qiye looked at him and lazily waved his sleeve to say: “Heaven and hell are of no difference to me; when I want to enter, I shall do so and none can stop me!”
“Such audacity!” A cold voice appeared, signaling the arrival of the Tiger’s Howl Prime Imperial Sire. The forty-nine divine rings on his body slowly emerged like forty-nine grand dao, suppressing this location and rendering others out of breath.
With a chilling pair of eyes that were capable of piercing all things like lightning, he glared at Li Qiye’s group of three and emotionlessly uttered: “Since you are here, don’t even dream about leaving!”
“You are mistaken. I haven’t thought about escaping at all!” Li Qiye calmly smiled: “I have to crush this place before leaving!”
“Still blustering right before your doom!” The Prime Imperial Sire’s gaze became frightening as he chillingly declared: “If you surrender now, I can grant you a painless death as long as you hand over your Immortal Emperor Life Treasures and your Immortal Physique Law. If not, then I will let all of you experience a fate worse than death!”
Li Qiye leisurely gave him a look and shook his head: “If you have any methods, then go ahead and use them. However, before I take action, I will give you a piece of merciful advice: evacuate your young and old. Then, at least you will have some blooming seeds for the future. Otherwise, when this location collapses and they start to scream for help… The heaven and earth will not answer their prayers.”
“Hahaha…” The Prime Imperial Sire gave a crazed laughter. Many of the elders and protectors of the Tiger’s Howl School also roared with laughter as if this was the funniest thing they had ever heard.
The Prime Imperial Sire replied with a sneer: “Foolish thing, I’ll show you that fate today! Kill the Chi brat!”
Suddenly, the experts from the school immediately pushed Chi Xiaodao outside while the Prime Imperial Sire blocked Li Qiye’s path.
The Prime Imperial Sire continued with a cold grin: “Just like you said, your prayers today will be unanswered by both the heaven and earth! I will first execute the Chi brat, then I’ll slowly kill those by your side!”
The cultivators who were watching in the distance became drawn in. Killing Chi Xiaodao before Li Qiye’s very eyes would be a psychological attack in order to undermine his morale.
However, Li Qiye was not flustered and replied with a calm smile instead: “Go ahead, what are you waiting for?”
Li Qiye’s attitude of not caring if Chi Xiaodao was executed right before him surprised the big shots of the Tiger’s Howl School, including the Prime Imperial Sire.
“Pluff!” While the upper echelon of the school was still a bit taken aback, a light suddenly flashed as the heads of the experts that were marching Chi Xiaodao fell to the ground before they could even react, resulting in blood spraying everywhere.
The killer was Chi Xiaodao’s executioner. A swing of his blade meant beheading another victim! He rescued Chi Xiaodao with an astonishing speed. In a brief moment, this executioner brought Chi Xiaodao right to Li Qiye’s side.
This sudden development happened too quickly, and no one could react. All of the school’s upper echelon was in a stupor; the executioner was their own disciple, so why did he suddenly betray the school and save Chi Xiaodao at the very last minute?
Even the spectators outside were stunned by this sudden change of events with the betrayal of the school’s own disciple.
“Who are you, how dare you betray your own sect!” The Prime Imperial Sire was shaking with anger. Such a prime opportunity was ruined by a traitor.
However, the executioner suddenly transformed into someone else in an instant and cheerfully laughed: “Who said your father was a disciple from your school!?”
Who else could this person be besides Sikong Toutian? He had already accepted Li Qiye’s order to infiltrate the school, and it was from his information that Li Qiye was able to plan all of this!
“Boy, you owe me your life now!” Sikong Toutian said with a grin towards Chi Xiaodao.
“Good, you guys can leave!” After saving Chi Xiaodao, Li Qiye told the group.
“You want to go!?” The Prime Imperial Sire was furious. Such an eventful play was ruined, so he ruthlessly exclaimed: “You have entered an inescapable net. You cannot fly even if you had wings, so just accept your death!” Finished speaking, he stepped forward while sending out all of the oppressive might of his forty-nine rings.
“You alone wish to stop me? Li Qiye laughed as he glanced at the Prime Imperial Sire and leisurely continued: “If this is all there is to your plan, then it is a pity.”
“Taking care of a little demon like you is not a difficult matter!” At this time, another dreadful voice appeared.
“Boom!” An old man stepped out and quickly blocked the path of retreat of Li Qiye’s group. The earth itself shook upon his arrival.
The old man did not have an imposing stature, but he still had an extremely overbearing presence as if his hidden power could erupt at any time.
“The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Furious Immortal Saint Country!” After seeing this old man, a sect master from the previous generation — right outside of the Tiger’s Howl School — emotionally uttered a cry: “I thought he had already decided to live in seclusion? He is coming into being once more!”
“The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country is rumored to be an incredible Heavenly Sovereign; he has a grand completion Tyrannical Saint Physique!”
Many people had heard of this legendary character since he was still renowned during the Difficult Dao Era.
“He might have already entered the Heavenly King realm at the start of his retirement. When his Tyrannical Saint Physique was completed, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King had only just started his rise to prominence!” A person movingly stated.
The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country was said to be unfathomable, and his grand completion physique was even more dreadful. It was one of the eighteen Saint Physiques, and it contained an unrivaled power at grand completion. This was something capable of instilling fear in all existences.
Li Qiye glanced at the Prime Imperial Sire then the ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country before he leisurely smiled: “Only a minor character that’s not worthy for me to take action.”
Such arrogant words made people glance at each other. This was at least a Heavenly Sovereign, and he also had a grand completion Saint Physique!
However, after remembering how Li Qiye had managed to kill everything in his path, they felt that he indeed had the capability to boast like this.
“Take care of the Prime Imperial Sire first.” Li Qiye withdrew his gaze and commanded Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao.
Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao stepped forward without saying anything. One with the Six Dao Sword and the other with the Tyrannical Immortal Saber… With these invincible weapons in their hands, both of their auras surged.
“Ignorant fools, mere mayflies wanting to shake the great tree!” The Prime Imperial Sire angrily rebuked for being looked down upon by Li Qiye. With a dark expression, the forty-nine divine rings opened completely as a Heavenly Sovereign’s power quickly came crashing down towards Chen Baojiao and Li Shuangyan.
In this instant, Li Shuangyan seemed to turn into a blooming sacred lotus. With immortal light everywhere, she quickly passed through the suppressing rings of the Prime Imperial Sire.
With the sacred light protecting her, Li Shuangyan remained untouched by myriad laws and the heavenly dao! This was her Void Imperfection Physique!
Shoutout to Winirka for the updated link!
Chapter 367 - Battle Against The Tiger’s Howl School
In a split second, Li Shuangyan moved at an incredible speed to pass through the Prime Imperial Sire’s divine rings. Her half white half black Six Dao Sword pierced through everything straight to the middle of the Imperial Sire’s eyebrows.
The Prime Imperial Sire became aghast and quickly flipped his palm over. With that, a myriad of pulsing laws came down like a furious dragon.
“Plufff—” The sword went straight through the Prime Imperial Sire’s palm seal, instantly spilling blood. The Six Dao Sword showed no mercy as it penetrated his hand.
Amidst all of this, the heavenly palm seal and myriad suppression laws still couldn’t touch Li Shuangyan. Under countless laws and the power of the grand dao, Li Shuangyan was still like a fish in water — free to come and go!
“Impossible!” Seeing such a scene, countless people uttered a cry in shock. How could she actually be impervious to myriad dao!?
The Prime Imperial Sire was at a disadvantage after the first exchange, and this left him with a shocked expression. He stared at Li Shuangyan in disbelief and shouted: “The Void Imperfection Physique! And it’s at minor completion!”
In this world, only the Void Imperfection Immortal Physique was untouchable by a myriad of dao. This physique was indeed the nemesis of many dao laws since they were useless before it.
“Void Imperfection Physique!” Many became dumbfounded when they heard this. It was already frightening that Li Qiye cultivated the Hell Suppressing Physique, but his maid right now was cultivating one of the twelve Immortal Physiques as well!
“Well, with your cultivation, even the Void Imperfection Physique won’t save you!” The Prime Imperial Sire let out a cold smile. With a rumbling explosion, a divine sword appeared above his head, spewing and devouring essences at the same time. This soul-stealing sword caused others to shiver without being cold.
“This is the Virtuous Paragon True Treasure of a great paragon that had been bestowed a title!” Seeing this divine sword with its own consciousness hovering about the Prime Imperial Sire, someone couldn’t help but emotionally exclaim.
“Boom!” At the same time, six Fate Palaces appeared above Li Shuangyan’s head to immediately form a domain. The hymn of a sword formation rang as the Six Dao Sword turned into a gigantic Six Dao Yin Yang Sword Formation that entered this absolute domain.
“Zhang—zhang—zhang!” In the blink of an eye, each sword beam became even larger than the heavenly pillars inside Li Shuangyan’s domain. The sword beams utilized its supreme array to trap the Prime Imperial Sire right away.
“Six palaces! She already has six palaces at the Enlightened Being realm… This means that she was once a Supreme Noble!” It was indeterminable whether the spectators were envious or jealous at this scene.
The Void Imperfection Physique alone warranted envy, but now they found out that she opened six palaces! The eyes of the spectators quickly reddened from greed; how could other geniuses get by in this world if she was here?
“Even an absolute sword formation domain cannot stop me!” The Prime Imperial Sire uttered a loud roar as his forty-nine divine rings turned into a world; he wanted to tear apart the sword formation. At the same time, his divine sword also unleashed a slash that was capable of slicing the stars and severing the grand dao!
“Don’t you even think about escaping!” Chen Baojiao cried out in response. Her Ancient Saint aura suddenly and fiercely erupted. However, the most ferocious thing was the Tyrannical Immortal Saber in her hand. One saber to punish the heavens with its Heaven Traversing Eight Saber technique. This explosive power was too terrifying.
“Zhang!” The saber broke through the plethora of worlds as it shot through the sky like the blade of a True God annihilating all of the worlds. An endless divine power rested in the bright glint of the saber as if it had already once annihilated the gods of this world.
The Tyrannical Immortal Saber and the Heaven Traversing Eight Saber technique — these were items passed down from the Legendary Era. The moment these two things combined their might, the resulting power could only cause others to shudder!
“Bang!” This heaven traversing blade actually fought against the Virtuous Paragon divine blade of the Prime Imperial Sire. However, Chen Baojiao was still only of the Ancient Saint realm, so she had to take several steps back from the blow.
“Get lost!” But at this time, Chen Baojiao’s stubborn temper erupted as she yelled. Her body suddenly became bright and, at this moment, she crazily absorbed the worldly essence along with myriad dao. The power of the dao around her body created an extremely terrifying storm that eventually aggregated in her blade in just one second.
“Zhang!” Another technique from the eight saber arts was unleashed from her rage. It severed the horizon and firmly knocked back the Prime Imperial Sire’s divine sword. Even the divine rings around his body were pushed back from the powerful storm!
At this moment, Chen Baojiao was surrounded by a terrifying storm that consisted of the grand dao and worldly essence. Its power could crush all things, and it accumulating on the blade increased her strike’s effectiveness by several dozen times.
“What physique is this?” Many people sucked in through their teeth in confusion after seeing this explosive grand dao storm on her body.
The Tyrannical Sacred Spring Physique not only increased her cultivation by leaps and bounds, but it also allowed for her to absorb the worldly essence to create this terrifying storm!
Even though Chen Baojiao did not open six palaces like Li Shuangyan, her physique allowed for her cultivation to quickly catch up to Li Shuangyan in just a few short years, allowing her to reach the Ancient Saint realm.
At this moment, Li Shuangyan was a seven celestials Enlightened Being and was one step away from Ancient Saint. Chen Baojiao had to restart her cultivation from the beginning after destroying her foundation, but she still managed to catch up. This was the strength of the Tyrannical Sacred Spring Physique!
This physique was not necessarily stronger than the Void Imperfection Physique, but it was also not likely to be any weaker than the Immortal Physiques. This was an ultimate and supreme physique!
“Kill!” Li Shuangyan let out a cry as her hand moved the formation arrays. The moment it opened, cries of dragons and tigers emerged as if millions of prehistoric beasts were rushing out. This was the Six Beasts Formation; it had an extraordinary origin. The moment these beasts rushed out, they used their crushing momentum to hunt down all enemies!
At the same time, her True Fate also jumped out of her master palace and used an unparalleled momentum to attack.
Chen Baojiao also uttered a battle cry and unleashed a horizontal slash, that carried the overbearing grand dao storm, like a storm goddess.
Even as a Jewel Sovereign, the Prime Imperial Sire was startled by these strikes. He quickly grabbed the divine sword and took out a shield for his other hand. His shield was also a Virtuous Paragon True Treasure.
“Boom!” With a deafening explosion, the Prime Imperial Sire used the shield to slam straight towards Li Shuangyan and sliced his sword towards Chen Baojiao. He understood that the Tiger’s Howl Merit Laws were useless before Li Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique. Even his Jewel Sovereign cultivation wouldn’t do unless he had a Heaven’s Will Secret Law! Thus, he used the shield to meet the enemy, using his powerful brute strength.
“There is no justice in this world!” The actions taken by Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao astonished even the spectators outside.
A once Supreme Noble who was now a seven celestials Enlightened Being actually had a minor completion Immortal Physique. This allowed for her to even surpass the confinements of levels and directly fight against a Heavenly Sovereign!
The other person was an Ancient Saint with an unknown physique. However, with just a glance, one could tell that this physique was only stronger than Saint Physiques, no weaker. And not to mention the divine saber in her hand that was capable of sweeping through the eight desolaces.
Even though the Prime Imperial Sire was a Jewel Sovereign that could easily kill Enlightened Beings and Ancient Saints under ordinary situations, he was not able to kill them because of the combined efforts of Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao.
“I can forgive Li Qiye for cultivating an Immortal Physique, but his two maids… One person has an Immortal Physique while the other has an unknown powerful physique! Is there any justice in this world? Does he want to use physiques to bully the rest of the world?” A person murmured right outside of the school.
Countless covetous glimmers appeared in people’s gazes. The appearance of these physiques meant that Li Qiye had at least two Immortal Physique Laws. Even Immortal Emperor lineages craved for these laws, so who could be exempt from such desires?
The ex-Imperial Advisor of the Furious Immortal Saint Country was also alerted. Even though the Saint Country boasted of having an Immortal Physique Law, its Lower Tyrannical Immortal Law had flaws despite being complete! How could he not be stimulated when two Immortal Physique Laws appeared right before him?
“Little Brat, be smart and surrender. This Imperial Advisor can grant you a peaceful death!” At this time, the ex-Imperial Advisor stepped forward with a domineering momentum, attempted to suppress everything in Li Qiye’s direction.
His own cultivation was very powerful, and his Tyrannical Saint Physique had already reached grand completion. This allowed for him to challenge even Heavenly Kings despite only being a Heavenly Sovereign!
“With only you?” Li Qiye responded with a carefree laugh without batting an eye.
“Ba—ba!” But before Li Qiye and the ex-Imperial Advisor could begin their fight, an extremely terrifying lightning tribulation descended from the sky. In just a second, it became an ocean of torrential lightning followed by an evil energy that soared to the sky.
“Bang!” The earth cracked after a loud explosion. Everyone then heard a cracking sound; the old treasure that was suppressing the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King suddenly blew apart into several pieces and flew out everywhere.
“Open!” After a sound that was akin to a dragon’s roar, one could make out a golden lion capable of devouring the heaven and earth suddenly turn into a huge mystical form. It powerfully pierced through the sea of lightning.
“No way!” Such a sudden change left the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster in shock. This ancient treasure was something passed down throughout the school’s history and was extremely powerful. However, it was actually crushed by someone today!
“Hahahaha! I have finally shattered this last tribulation!” An imposing voice resonated as a lion-like old man appeared in front of everyone.
“The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King! He actually succeeded!” Seeing this old man fight his way out of the ancient treasure’s suppression, many people were moved and murmured: “Is this a minor completion Immortal Physique? It seems that the rumors were true; the heavenly king had actually found his ancestor’s unbeatable Immortal Physique Law!”
In a split second, Li Shuangyan moved at an incredible speed to pass through the Grand Imperial Sire’s divine rings. Her half white half black Six Dao Sword pierced through everything straight to the middle of the Imperial Sire’s eyebrows.
The Grand Imperial Sire became aghast and quickly flipped his palm over. With that, a myriad of pulsing laws came down like a furious dragon.
“Plufff—” The sword went straight through the Grand Imperial Sire’s palm seal, instantly spilling blood. The Six Dao Sword showed no mercy as it penetrated his hand.
Amidst all of this, the heavenly palm seal and myriad suppression laws still couldn’t touch Li Shuangyan. Under countless laws and the power of the grand dao, Li Shuangyan was still like a fish in the waters — free to come and go!
Chapter 368 - Tiger’s Howl Ancestor
“Grandpa!” Seeing this old man that resembled a lion, Chi Xiaodao was both surprised and glad as he immediately shouted.
At this time, the pair of lion-like eyes of the old man hovered upon the ex-Imperial Advisor from the Saint Country, then he loudly laughed: “So it turns out to be the ex-Imperial Advisor; you actually got involved in these muddy waters!”
“Amazing, it seems that you have truly found your ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law. Nothing can be better since this is the thing our Saint Country requires!” The ex-Imperial Advisor was not intimidated and instead was rather ecstatic.
In fact, they suppressed the Heavenly King in order to test whether or not he actually had the Immortal Physique Law. To find out that this was the answer, it was actually good news to them. No matter what, they wished to capture him alive and seize his physique law!
“Enough talking, it’s time to fight!” The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King laughed wildly like a lion. In just a second, the Inner Physique before his chest suddenly became bright and was brimming with immortal power, causing his blood energy to surge, promoting him into an invincible tyrannical lion.
“The minor completion Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique!” Seeing the frightening immortal power on the Heavenly King’s body after his physique erupted, many people were shocked with envy!
“Just in time. I’d like to see your ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law!” The ex-Imperial Advisor also roared. An immortal power surged from his body as well; it was dauntingly similar to the Heavenly King. At this time, universal laws began to resonate. These laws frantically increased the advisor’s battle power and blood energy for a short period of time.
“This is also the Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique, but it is from the Lower Immortal Tyrannical Physique Law!” A person emotionally exclaimed after seeing the old advisor’s state.
The Lower Immortal Tyrannical Physique Law was the defining art of the Furious Immortal Saint Country. This art could be cultivated into the Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique, but not just anyone in the Saint Country would be able to cultivate this law. Unless they were from the main branch, one would need to greatly contribute to the country and have their loyalty tested.
Without a doubt, the ex-Imperial Advisor satisfied all of the conditions to cultivate this immortal law!
“Is the fate of this world going to be decided by Immortal Physiques now?” A dumbfounded person murmured. Earlier, Li Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique and Chen Baojiao’s invincible nameless physique were already amazing enough, but now two Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physiques came out of nowhere.
Seeing Immortal Physiques would normally be a rare sight, but now, one appeared after another — this was too ridiculous.
“Slay!” The Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique’s essence was in its hegemonic nature of ruling by force. It could instantly increase the user’s cultivation, battle power, and blood energy to an insane level, allowing the user to easily fight against a much more powerful existence! Not to mention, there were no negative side-effects!
At this time, the Heavenly King and the ex-Imperial Advisor were like two crazed lions. The two of them wildly cried out and fought in the sky, fiercely exchanging blows. Their extremely ferocious fight caused others to lose their minds.
“Do you guys only have these kinds of means?” Li Qiye was without an enemy, so he glanced at the Tiger’s Howl schoolmaster and said with a smile: “If this is all there is to it, then you have left me very disappointed.” Finish speaking, his Hell Suppressing Godly Physique suddenly erupted.
“Bang!” Li Qiye’s foot heavily stomped down, tearing the heaven and earth asunder.
“Rumble!” Even though the surrounding area completely collapsed, Li Qiye did not stop; one stomp after another, his feet rained down upon this land.
“Bang—bang—bang!” The blasts resounded across the world. In just a short moment, the Tiger’s Howl School was facing a cataclysm as an extremely powerful force tore apart the earth. Li Qiye was the center of all of this! He used a crushing momentum to break mountains and temples one after another. This caused all the Tiger’s Howl experts to turn pale as if the end was approaching.
“The Hell Suppressing Godly Physique — another minor completion Immortal Physique!” Even the cultivators in the distance felt their strength sapped from their bodies under the domineering might of this Immortal Physique.
“How can any of us live in this world? Today, so many minor completion Immortal Physiques have appeared. Right now, Li Qiye and Li Shuangyan have minor completion Immortal Physiques; if they become Virtuous Paragons in the future and obtain grand completion Immortal Physiques, then even an Immortal Emperor would have a hard time suppressing them!” A great character lamented with pain.
“Open the ancestral foundation!” The schoolmaster was deathly pale as he crazily shouted. At this time, the school wanted to start up their ancestral foundation no matter the cost.
After his command, wave after wave of universal laws — as big as stars — rushed out from the school’s ancestral ground. Under the support of a massive sum of refined jades, the school was able to open its ancestral foundation. A long universal law then locked this earth and sealed the firmaments; it finally managed to stop Li Qiye from using his Immortal Physique to destroy the school’s ancestral ground.
“Little Animal, if we don’t mince you into pieces today, we will never let this go until we cease to exist!” The schoolmaster couldn’t help but scream in rage. How could he not be hurt after seeing their ancestral ground become so damaged?
“I’m afraid that using just your ancestral foundation won’t do. It won’t be me who will be minced, it shall be I who will stomp your Tiger’s Howl School into nothingness!” Li Qiye calmly declared with a smile.
“Ignorant brat, our immemorial ancestral foundation shall never fall. Hmph, a mere mayfly like you dares to even dream about shaking us!?” At this time, a cold voice appeared as if a dead person was crawling up from the ground.
At this time, four Ancient Saints carried a palanquin outside. The old man who was laying on top of it only had a few strands of white hair left, plus his entire body appeared to be a dried up skeleton; only his skin remained. This was someone who appeared to have only one breath left, someone that would find it difficult to even walk, someone who was just awaiting their inevitable demise.
However, such an old man instilled a sense of fear in all the spectators. His corpse-like body was tiredly situated on the palanquin like a coiling dragon. When his eyes opened, a terrifying divine light flashed; it felt as if this divine light was capable of destroying everything.
Anyone who saw this old man would not dismiss him just because he was lying on a palanquin. On the contrary, all of them shivered with creeps the moment they laid their eyes on this old man.
“Is this the ancestor of the Tiger’s Howl School?” Seeing this old man and feeling the shiver-inducing aura, someone couldn’t help but murmur.
“I, I have heard of this old man before!” Finally, a decrepit old Demon Monarch took a deep breath and said in horror: “Legends state that he is the eighth generation great-grandson of the Tiger God. He had always been sealed in the deepest parts of the school with an Era Blood Stone to resist the erosion of time.”
Many were horrified after hearing this. The eighth great-grandson of the Tiger God… Just how long had this person lived for!? Even if he had been gathering dust underground, it was still enough to scare other people.
When this old man was carried out, everyone from the Tiger’s Howl School quickly prostrated and chanted: “Oh great divine ancestor!”
The dying old man that was lying on the palanquin spoke without any strength: “Junior, you were able to force me to come into being. Even if you die today, you have done enough to warrant a lifetime of arrogance and pride. Be reasonable and hand over the Immortal Physique Laws.”
“An old undying!” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and peered at the ancestor before he cheerfully smiled: “I’m afraid today is the last time you will ever come into being. An existence only of the old undying level is not enough to protect the Tiger’s Howl School.” With that, Li Qiye stomped down towards the old man with an unrivaled domineering attitude.
Such a domineering style astonished everyone. This was an existence of the ancestor level! An old undying capable of petrifying anyone! Many great sects sealed one or two of these old undyings, but when these characters came into being, it could easily result in their death. This was why they would not easily come out unless their sects were facing certain destruction.
Heavenly Sovereigns and even Heavenly Kings were filled with dread when they saw this old undying ancestor, but Li Qiye still stomped his foot towards him with an overbearing attitude.
The ancestor on the palanquin didn’t even move one bit. He simply flicked his finger and, with a “pop”, Li Qiye was blown away, crashing heavily into a peak.
“So powerful!” A finger easily knocked away Li Qiye with a minor completion Immortal Physique! Many spectators felt their scalps tingle since they all knew about Li Qiye’s ferocity, yet the ancestor blew him away with just one finger!
“Crash!” Li Qiye rushed out from the rubble with some bloodstains on his robes. However, they were merely external wounds and were insignificant to Li Qiye.
“It is a pity. You are far from enough. An existence that has yet to enter the Path of the Grand Era — not enough to reach the apex!” Li Qiye burst out in laughter and didn’t pay the ancestor any mind.
“Too arrogant!” Many people sucked in air through their teeth and exclaimed after hearing Li Qiye’s words.
The ancestor still sat on the palanquin, appearing to look down on all existences as he weakly spoke: “You do not know the immensity of the heaven and earth. Even though I haven’t step onto the Path of the Grand Era, it is still more than enough to kill a little brat like you!”
Above Heavenly Kings were Virtuous Paragons. There was a saying in this world — if Immortal Emperors do not come into being, then Virtuous Paragons were unbeatable.
In fact, this phrase was very vague. Virtuous Paragons were divided into many types, so even though the cultivators of this world considered any existence right below Immortal Emperor to be of the Virtuous Paragon realm, for millions of years, Virtuous Paragons that did not enter the Path of the Heavens or the Path of the Grand Era were called ordinary Virtuous Paragons.
For these ordinary Virtuous Paragons, their levels — in ascending order are Early Era Virtuous Paragon, Rising Era Virtuous Paragon, Peaceful Era Virtuous Paragon, Prosperous Era Virtuous Paragon, and Golden Era Virtuous Paragon.
It could be said that a Golden Era Virtuous Paragon was at the peak of ordinary Virtuous Paragons, but this was not the ultimate end of this realm.
Chapter 369 - Eight-Winged Divine Tiger
Once a cultivator reached Golden Era Virtuous Paragon, there would be two paths available to those who could continue onward; one was the Path of the Heavens and the other was the Path of the Grand Era.
These two paths were very easily classified. The Path of the Heavens was to reach the supreme heavenly dao of oneself. People who traveled on this path had the chance to obtain the Heaven’s Will and become an Immortal Emperor. However, the Path of the Heavens had always been very cruel and heartless throughout each generation since those who walked on this path had to compete against countless others. Throughout the ages, countless heaven-defying existences all died miserable deaths on this path towards the heavens.
In contrast, those who trod on the Path of the Grand Era were more likely to die of old age. This was the dao of the grand era that didn’t compete for the Heaven’s Will; this was a path that simply aimed for the apex of the Virtuous Paragon realm.
Those who trod on the grand era’s path could build a country to gather resources. Once they gained a certain degree of power, they would be able to open the divine investiture list! This meant that Virtuous Ancestors that reached the apex of the grand era’s path were comparable to the mysterious True Gods and could not be looked down upon by even Immortal Emperors!
Future generations began to divide these two paths; they called the Virtuous Paragons that walked towards the heavens “Heavenly Paragons” and those that strode towards the grand era “Divine Paragons”!
Without a doubt, the ancestor of the Tiger’s Howl School was a Virtuous Paragon, but he had not entered either of these paths! He was only an ordinary Virtuous Paragon. However, as an old undying that had been sealed for countless years and the ancestor of a great sect, he was still an existence worthy of awe and fear.
“Is that so?” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Then come out and show me the power of a Virtuous Paragon like yourself!” Having said that, Immortal Emperor auras flooded the sky. At this moment, Li Qiye’s left hand wielded the Violet Imperial Hammer and his right hand held the Black Tortoise Rod.
“Immortal Emperor Life Treasures!” The moment he took out these weapons, surging flame-like imperial auras appeared, causing everyone to shiver and nervously swallow their saliva!
“The Violet Imperial Hammer of the Azure Mysterious Ancient Kingdom and the Black Tortoise Rod of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!” Countless people were in awe before these two weapons.
Some big shots couldn’t help but to show their unsuppressible greed despite their legs growing weak. One of them even murmured: “This kid is too scary. To be able to actually unlock the emperor seal of the Ancient Kingdoms — this is truly unbelievable.” Many were driven mad from jealousy, seeing two emperor weapons in the possession of Li Qiye. Outside of Immortal Emperor lineages, who would have two emperor weapons? But this kid did, so how could they not go crazy from jealousy? And the even more astonishing part was that this kid could actually unlock the legendary emperor seals to take others’ emperor weapons for his own use!
Since he was facing emperor weapons, even the ancestor of the Tiger’s Howl School did not dare to act recklessly. In the end, the school was not an Immortal Emperor lineage; they did not have emperor merit laws, so before the might of an emperor weapon, great sects like them were at a huge disadvantage!
The ancestor solemnly stood up and opened his eyes. Suddenly, an endless net of lightning encompassed the entire school. At this moment, he was no longer an old undying nearing his end and was more like an awakened divine tiger. Before his piercing gaze, even Heavenly Kings would find that their legs would give in.
“Boom!” The ancestor’s powerful Virtuous Paragon aura destroyed the earth. At this time, eight tiger wings appeared behind his back, turning him into a divine tiger with eight wings. Even though his vitality had withered, his ferocious might still remained.
“I know who he is now!” Someone saw the eight wings behind his back and exclaimed in horror: “He is the Eight-Winged Divine Tiger! During the generation of Immortal Emperor Yin Tian, he was a Virtuous Paragon that once ruled over an entire territory!” 1
At this particular juncture, who the Tigers Howl School Ancestor was became unimportant to many people. Seeing his aura, they all understood that this was a real Virtuous Paragon and not someone an ancestor from a minor sect could compare to!
The ancestor’s True Fate Weapon now appeared above his head. This was a silver hook capable of hanging an entire galaxy; its chilling radiance rushed towards all directions. This was a Galaxy Hook created by a Heaven’s Will True Stone with seven heavenly accumulations!
“Kid, to be able to make me use my True Fate Weapon… You should feel honored!” At this time, the ancestor stood above the world and looked down on all existences.
“Hah, that is not up for you to decide. How could you possibly block two emperor weapons if you don’t take out your True Fate Weapon?” Li Qiye laughed loudly and said.
The ancestor’s expression turned cold as he spoke in an awe-inspiring manner: “Ignorant kid, do you really think you are unbeatable with emperor weapons? There are many people in this world who can stop such Life Treasures. If you can only unleash ten to twenty percent of an emperor weapon’s power, I’m afraid you are merely courting death even with two of them!”
The ancestor’s words were actually correct. A Heavenly Sovereign or a Heavenly King would be at a disastrous disadvantage if they were to face an emperor weapon without having one of their own, but it was different for Virtuous Paragons. Virtuous Paragons were existences capable of communicating with the heaven and earth as well as reaching for the sun and moon, so they could withstand a certain level of offense from an emperor weapon. If one couldn’t unleash a powerful attack with an emperor weapon, then Virtuous Paragons were still able to kill them.
“Just watch me!” Li Qiye laughed and, with a long battle cry, his six palaces appeared. At this time, they did not form a domain and instead only lined up in a regular formation.
Despite this, his Life Wheel began to turn and, with loud noises like the roaring waves, the Yin Yang Sea of Blood spewed out an endless amount of blood energy.
“Another six palaces Supreme Noble!” Even though Li Qiye’s six palaces did not turn into an absolute domain, it was still enough to drive others wild. One couldn’t help but to bitterly say: “Two Supreme Nobles appearing in one day! This is too unreal!”
A Royal Noble with six palaces was the sign of a great genius. Very few people at this realm were able to open six palaces because it would be the pinnacle of this level. By accomplishing such a task, one could absolutely be referred to as a genius amongst devilish geniuses!
Li Shuangyan had six palaces, and now Li Qiye also had six. Becoming dumbstruck in horror was the only appropriate reaction.
“Motherfucker!” A big character from the previous generation couldn’t help but let out some vulgarity: “With these two great geniuses appearing in one day, what are our juniors going to do!?”
It was not their fault for being lost in despair since both Li Shuangyan and Li Qiye stole the radiance from all other geniuses! Before them, no one else would dare to call themselves a genius.
“This is simply mocking everyone else’s futures. How are we going to live from now on?” A young prodigy unwillingly spoke in a daze: “Not to mention their Immortal Physiques, now they also have six palaces! Can’t they leave some space for little shrimps like us to catch up?”
At this moment, the eyes of many were reddened from jealousy as they stared at Li Qiye; many of those wished to peel off his skin and tear apart his tendons. Even a descendant of an Ancient Kingdom would not have as many luxurious things as he does!
“We’re changing the battlefield. Come up!” Seeing the eruption of Li Qiye’s Yin Yang Sea of Blood, even the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor couldn’t keep his calm demeanor. He suddenly traversed through the air upward and shouted.
“So be it!” Li Qiye laughed and also soared up to the sky. In an extremely short amount of time, Li Qiye’s Revolving Crescent Sun frantically urged the sea of blood to let out an endless sanguine tide. At this moment, Li Qiye’s blood energy flooded the sky.
“Feel the rage of the emperor weapons!” Li Qiye screamed and used his endless blood energy to activate the two emperor weapons. The moment these words came out, the two weapons directly attacked the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor!
There were no merit laws nor techniques involved, it was only the direct attack of the invincible emperor weapons. The moment these two weapons shot out, many strange images and phenomena appeared. A Black Tortoise caused the heaven and earth to molder while a Violet Hammer struck down the moon and sun! At this time, the entire Tiger’s Howl School shivered in fear as countless people fell onto the ground, not being able to breathe from the pressure.
“Galaxy Parting Hook!” The ancestor knew that there was no path of retreat, so he also uttered a loud cry like a divine god coming into being. The divine hook struck down as each galaxy was turned upside down into a faint sea of stars in order to block the incoming emperor weapons.
“Bang!” After a loud explosion, countless stars fell down as the firmament was shattered. The people on the ground suffered from the aftermath. Their blood energy went out of control, and those with a weaker cultivation directly vomited blood.
Under this blow, the sea of stars was destroyed while the ancestor had to take several steps back, revealing a shocked countenance.
“How could this be!” Even a Virtuous Paragon was not able to block the attack! This suddenly changed the demeanor of countless people.
“This is too heaven-defying; Li Qiye was able to unleash thirty percent of the Immortal Emperor Life Treasures! His Longevity Treasure is way too powerful. I think it must be an Immortal Emperor Longevity Treasure!” A big character looked at Li Qiye’s Yin Yang Sea of Blood that was hovering in the sky. Even though he had just unleashed an emperor level attack, there was no sign of his blood energy drying up. This Longevity Treasure was way too formidable, rendering others absolutely horrified.
One must understand that in order to unleash a strike from an emperor weapon, one required the support and sacrifice of a large amount of blood energy. Not everyone could pay this price!
Li Qiye also took a deep breath. His sea of blood was indeed extremely powerful, but by attacking with two emperor weapons in this manner, he was still unable to bear it despite the support of his sea of blood. He felt out of breath and struggled to regain his composure after using a monstrous amount of blood energy.
The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor was going insane. A junior like Li Qiye having two emperor weapons was one thing, but he also had an Immortal Emperor Longevity Treasure! An Immortal Emperor Longevity Treasure working together with Immortal Emperor Life Treasures — this was a perfect synergy!
Bao - Li Qiye versus the first ‘official’ Virtuous Paragon. I wonder how many Virtuous Paragons we have seen so far?
Once a cultivator reached Golden Era Virtuous Paragon, if they could still continue onward, then there were two available paths; one was the Path of the Heavens and the other was the Path of the Grand Era.
These two paths were very easily classified. The Path of the Heavens was to reach the supreme heavenly dao of the self. People who traveled on this path had the chance to obtain the Heaven’s Will and reach Immortal Emperor. However, the Path of the Heavens had always been very cruel and heartless throughout each generation since those who walked on this path had to compete against countless others. Throughout the ages, countless heaven-defying existences all died miserable deaths on this path towards the heavens.
In contrast, those who trod on the Path of the Grand Era were more likely to die of old age. This was the dao of the grand era that didn’t compete for the Heaven’s Will; this was a path that simply aimed for the apex of the Virtuous Paragon realm.
Chapter 370 - Battle Against the Divine Tiger
“Damn it! One person with two emperor weapons and an emperor longevity treasure — this is a rich young master, no, an imperial young master! Only the direct children of Immortal Emperors would be able to enjoy such privileges!” A person exclaimed with indignation. 1
“Good, good, good…” The Tiger’s Howl School’s Ancestor was laughing from anger. He, a terrifying ancestor had been sealed for so many years underground, had to come into being today just for a little junior. He thought that he could deal with this as easily as flipping his palm, but he didn’t think that he couldn’t garner even the least bit of advantage. 2
As a powerful ancestor who failed to kill a junior even after using his True Fate Weapon, it was extremely humiliating for him.
“Take this!” In a wrathful outrage, the ancestor took out a treasure that stole the colors from the moon and sun while the stars lost their luminosity.
“The True Fate Weapon of the Tiger God!” A person was amazed after seeing the treasure in the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor’s hand.
Sacred universal laws encircled this treasure that exuded countless divine lights as if an embryo of a True God was being nourished inside. The divine power that was spewing out was boundless, causing others to quiver as if a True God was suppressing them.
The Progenitor of the Tiger’s Howl School was a Virtuous Paragon that had opened the legendary divine investiture. This was a supreme existence, an eternal Progenitor that ordinary Virtuous Paragons could never compare to!
“Junior, die—!” The enraged ancestor madly shouted as he dripped a drop of Longevity Blood onto the Tiger God’s True Treasure. Suddenly, a bloody light pierced the sky as a tiger’s roar shattered the grand dao, causing all the other gods to tremble.
“Really?” Li Qiye laughed as his Yin Yang Sea of Blood kept on transferring blood energy nonstop. The endless blood energy lifted a massive tidal wave of Longevity Blood that spun inside his Life Wheel to power his emperor weapons!
“Die!” The ancestor unleashed the Tiger God’s True Treasure. A white tiger crossed the sky — this was a real Tiger God. The moment it stepped out, the fabric of space and time shattered. Its stride did not have any physical limitations; its claws could incinerate oceans and destroy all lands. Such a powerful divine aura caused countless existences to shiver.
“Thousand Hands Against the Nine Worlds!” Li Qiye did not retreat and instead trod forward. With a cry, the nine worlds were lifted along with three thousand minor worlds. The two emperor weapons were already powerful enough under the support of the endless blood energy, but now they exuded an even more powerful presence.
The Violet Imperial Hammer’s emperor aura filled the sky. Inside the swirling violet energy was a vast territory as if an emperor was sitting on his throne, creating a new dao and changing the profundity of this world. Meanwhile, a monstrous Black Tortoise stepped out from the Black Tortoise Rod. This tortoise crushed the land as it shouldered the blue sky. It derived and created numerous grand dao and laws with a totem capable of freezing eternity itself!
This time, the two emperor weapons were no longer on the offensive. They suddenly became an impregnable gate as if two Immortal Emperors were guarding Li Qiye!
“Boom!” A loud explosion rang as the white tiger — with an invincible momentum — slammed into the gate created by the two emperor weapons. The endless void shattered like glass falling down in the sky!
“Thud, thud, thud!” Li Qiye continuously took several steps back. A Virtuous Paragon used all of his might to unleash a true treasure attack that belonged to an existence that had opened the investiture list, so one could only imagine the power of this strike! However, it was still unable to slay Li Qiye!
“No way, even the Tiger God’s True Treasure could not kill him!” Witnessing this scene, countless people were in disbelief.
A great character softly sighed and said: “This kid is too heaven-defying. He unleashed fifty to sixty percent of the Immortal Emperor Life Treasures’ power; even a descendant of an Ancient Kingdom could not do such a thing!”
“You cannot escape death even with two emperor weapons. Emperor weapons are not omnipotent!” The ancestor coldly spoke after he gained some advantage with that last exchange.
Li Qiye revealed a smile and said: “If you were still young or if your blood energy was still strong, then I would accept these words. Virtuous Paragons are indeed great, and even an ordinary one could defeat an emperor weapon in the hands of a junior! However, you won’t do! You are old with a depleted lifespan and dried up blood energy. Yes, with the Tiger God’s True Treasure, you can muster some ground, but I have two emperor weapons. Under my resilience, I can block five to ten moves from you, but how long can your blood energy support the Tiger God’s True Treasure?”
Li Qiye’s words moved many spectators in the distance. Even though using emperor weapons required a huge amount of blood energy, Li Qiye’s advantage was due to his young age and vigorous blood energy, not to mention that his Longevity Treasure belonged to the emperor grade. This was enough for him to persevere for a short time!
“It’s enough for me to kill you!” The ancestor’s eyes were filled with rage. In fact, Li Qiye’s words rang true to the ancestor’s ears. His lifespan was indeed depleted. Even if he could kill Li Qiye with the Tiger God’s True Treasure, his blood energy would be emptied as a result. This meant that he could no longer seal himself; his death was assured even if he killed Li Qiye.
“Ah!” At this time, a miserable scream appeared along with a rain of blood. With a crazed laughter, the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King tore the ex-Imperial Advisor of the Saint Country into two halves while he was still alive!
“Time to end this!” At the same time, Li Shuangyan also cried out. The Heavenly Sky Plate appeared in her hand. The moment it started to turn, the stars were destroyed. Its powerful force directly hit the body of the Tiger’s Howl Prime Imperial Sire, blowing him away as he let out a shrill scream. In this short period of time, before he had the chance to counterattack, Chen Baojiao slashed with her Tyrannical Immortal Saber like a storm goddess, creating a surging sea of blades!
“No!” The Prime Imperial Sire took out many treasures and wanted to stop these blades, but they were insufficient. After a sad bellow, he was also killed by this attack.
In just the blink of an eye, two experts from the Tiger’s Howl School were killed. The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor was stunned. He couldn’t help even if he wanted to since Li Qiye’s two emperor weapons had been fixated on him!
Seeing such a scene, not only the Tiger’s Howl disciples, but even the spectators outside were astonished. Li Qiye’s camp was way too powerful!
“If this is the limit of your capabilities, then there is no chance of stopping me today.” Li Qiye glanced at the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor whose face had become cold to the extreme.
Angered to the point of vomiting blood, the ancestor angrily laughed and then coldly declared: “Good, good… Junior, do you think you are the only one with Immortal Emperor Life Treasures? Please come out, Ancient Kingdom’s emperor weapons!”
“Bang—bang—bang—” The moment the ancestor finished his words, an Immortal Emperor’s aura suddenly ravaged the nearby land with a force even more powerful than Li Qiye’s two emperor weapons!
In just a split second, four emperor weapons appeared on the side of the Tiger’s Howl School with a terrifying pressure that shook the entire Eastern Hundred Cities!
“An Immortal Emperor True Treasure!” At this time, people felt a presence as if an Immortal Emperor had personally come. They couldn’t help but become pale from fear!
At this time, three Immortal Emperor Life Treasures and one Immortal Emperor True Treasure descended to the school and sealed this entire location! Even the spectators right outside had to lie limp on the ground.
“Is this the prelude to the eventual sinking of the Tiger’s Howl School?” At this moment, countless old undyings of the great sects at the Eastern Hundred Cities became alarmed after feeling the Immortal Emperor True Treasure’s presence!
“The Evil Subduing Rod, Immortal Emperor Fu Mo’s True Treasure! And also the Water Dragon Rod, the Fire Phoenix Rod, and the Wood Tiger Rod!” Seeing the four weapons, someone became overwhelmed with shock and murmured: “All of Immortal Emperor Fu Mo’s weapons have gathered here today!” 3
Immortal Emperor Fu Mo of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom had left behind an arsenal of weapons, including the Evil Subduing Rod and his rods crafted after the four images! It was said that this arsenal could turn into an invincible emperor formation!
Including the Black Tortoise Rod in Li Qiye’s hands, all of Immortal Emperor Fu Mo’s weapons had appeared at the Tiger’s Howl ancestral ground.
But outside of these three Life Treasures, even an Immortal Emperor True Treasure arrived. Everyone couldn’t help but take a deep breath after seeing such a scene. Today was a battle between Immortal Emperor weapons!
“Such a grand performance! All the emperor weapons of an Immortal Emperor have arrived. Only an Ancient Kingdom would be able to put on such a play!” Seeing the four weapons suppressing the four directions of the school, many were awestruck.
“This is the Tiger’s Howl School working together with the Furious Immortal Saint Country and the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, it’s not just the school alone. Maybe the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is the real mastermind behind all this!” A sect master figured it out and emotionally spoke.
The Tiger’s Howl School was merely the battlefield, the real player was the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!
“The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom finally came.” Li Qiye became serious and commanded the group of Li Shuangyan: “All of you leave first, I shall deal with them!”
“It is too late to leave!” At this time, a terrifying voice resonated. A faint shadow appeared in the sky. The emergence of this shadow made the world seem insignificant. Wherever he stood was his personal domain; he was a god that controlled the heaven and earth.
Countless people felt the impulse to kneel down in worship before this faint shadow as if an almost primal, instinctive fear emanated from the depths of their minds.
“The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom’s Divine Beast Protector!” Li Qiye’s eyes narrowed as he stared at the fuzzy shadow in the sky and said.
“The Divine Beast Protector from the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!” After hearing this name, someone screamed. Even old undyings that hid in the darkness became shocked and murmured: “Is this an eternal existence?”
The title of eternal existence would not be granted to just anyone. Even an old undying like the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor was not qualified to be called an eternal existence. Even legendary masters lacked this privilege.
It was said that only people who opened the divine investiture list could be called eternal existences. Although there were no clear standards to this title, eternal existences were far beyond ordinary Virtuous Paragons! This was something known to everyone!
“Damn it! One person with two emperor weapons and an emperor longevity treasure — this is a rich young master, no, an imperial young master! Only the direct children of Immortal Emperors would be able to enjoy such privileges!” A person exclaimed with indignation.
“Good, good, good…” The Tiger’s Howl School’s Ancestor was laughing from anger. He, a terrifying ancestor had been sealed for so many years underground, had to come into being today just for a little junior. He thought that he could deal with this as easily as flipping his palm, but he didn’t think that he couldn’t garner even the least bit of advantage.
As a powerful ancestor who failed to kill a junior even after using his True Fate Weapon, it was extremely humiliating for him.
“Take this!” In a wrathful outrage, the ancestor took out a treasure that stole the colors from the moon and sun while the stars lost their luminosity.
Chapter 371 - Realm God Coming Into Being
The Brilliance Divine Beast Protector had always been resting at the capital of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, utilizing its great resources and an Era Blood Stone to resist the withering of time.
After tens of millions of years, no one dared to provoke the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. Even powerful Virtuous Paragons wouldn’t cause trouble inside the kingdom’s territory, let alone oppose it.
Many people knew that outside of the kingdom’s own great resources and secrets, its Divine Beast Protector had always been alive!
Today, it personally came here and shook everyone’s hearts; who knew how many people lost all of their courage after hearing this name!
“Now this is the real death trap!” A knowledgeable master murmured: “No matter how heaven-defying Li Qiye is, he will not be able to escape this inevitable doom!”
Besides those at the Tiger’s Howl School, many revealed a gloating grin. Li Qiye was too heaven-defying and devilish; as long as he existed, he would forever be an unreachable mountain for the rest of the younger generation!
“My dao clone has to personally arrive just for a junior — this is valuing you too much.” The faint figure in the sky looked down at Li Qiye and said: “However, it will all be worth it!”
“It is a dao clone!” People glanced at each other, but they were still astonished. Even if it was only the dao clone of the Divine Beast Protector of the Ancient Kingdom, it was still enough to suppress many Virtuous Paragons, not to mention it also brought along four emperor weapons — this was unbeatable!
These spectators took deep breaths. They all understood that with the appearance of the Divine Beast Protector, this battle was about to reach the climax!
“Junior, even the gods would not be able to save you today!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor coldly spoke. Their school had suffered heavily after this battle, but for the emperor laws and physique laws, it was all worth it.
“Don’t meaninglessly struggle!” The overbearing shadow looked down at Li Qiye and said: “You should meekly hand over your emperor weapons and physique laws. Then, I shall grant you a swift death!”
An existence like the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector would not easily come into being due to having to pay an extremely high price. Even if it was only its dao clone, the price would be astounding. These types of eternal existences did not have much lifespan left, they were just barely holding on. Unless it was a disaster, they would absolutely not come out.
However, in order to regain the emperor weapons and physique laws in the hands of Li Qiye, the dao clone of the Divine Beast Protector had no other choice.
This was all worth it in its eyes. At the moment, there were three great Immortal Physique Laws: Li Qiye’s Hell Suppressing Godly Physique, Li Shuangyan’s Void Imperfection Physique, and the Heavenly King’s Furious Immortal Tyrannical Physique!
If their Brilliance Ancient Kingdom could obtain these three physique laws, then its potential would become unimaginable. Perhaps they could even catch up to lineages like the Eternal River School or even far exceed them.
At this point, all the spectators held their breaths. Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King was as pale as a sheet. This was a dead end; if it was someone like the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor, then they still had a chance of surviving. However, when an existence like the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector appeared, even if it was only a dao clone, there would be no way out for them!
“Li Qiye is finished. Not even two emperor weapons can save him.” A person couldn’t help but say after seeing the current situation.
There was also a disciple from a great power who sneered: “He was seeking his own death. Coming from a small sect, no matter how heaven-defying he may be, he still would not be able to overturn the grand tide. Opposing an Ancient Kingdom was a foolish endeavor! Hah, the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom had two Immortal Emperors and stood strong for millions of years. How could a junior like him be able to affect them!?”
“Let us watch to see how this genius will pathetically die!” Another great power’s disciple excitedly spoke. To those who had grievances with Li Qiye, this kind of development was their greatest wish.
“What a pity!” Li Qiye glanced at the faint shadow in the sky and said: “Only a dao clone — truly a disappointment.”
“Why would I personally come for an insect!?” The shadow looked down and said: “Hand over the Immortal Physique Laws!”
Li Qiye laughed and said: “If your real body came, then I might have let you see my Immortal Physique Law. What a shame, I was waiting for your real body to come so that I could refine it. Even if an old guy like you, someone who had lived for generation after generation, is really hard to chew, I really wanted to refine you and turn your beast blood into treasure blood… This is a really nutritious thing!”
These words surprised everyone, and they all felt that Li Qiye had become crazy. This was an eternal existence, someone even stronger than legendary masters. One could not compare it to the likes of an old undying like the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor!
An existence like the Divine Beast Protector could easily kill ordinary Virtuous Paragons. As for Heavenly Sovereigns and Heavenly Kings, they were nothing but ants in their eyes!
Li Qiye blustering about refining an eternal existence of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom was simply too audacious.
“Haha, don’t tell me this brat has gone crazy from being too scared?” Someone couldn’t help but laugh: “He wants to refine an eternal existence? It could crush him with just one finger!”
“My patience is limited!” At this moment, the faint shadow in the sky coldly declared: “Hand your Immortal Physique Laws over!” If it wasn’t for the laws, he would have killed Li Qiye already.
“Forget it, I have no interest in a dao clone. However, your Immortal Emperor Life Treasures might not be too bad!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “You can go now, but leave behind the four emperor weapons!”
Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King’s mouth was wide open after hearing Li Qiye trying to chase away the divine beast protector’s dao clone as if it was a fly.
“Haha, the Divine Beast Senior could kill you just by lifting its finger. The four emperor weapons aren’t here for you. You think way too highly of yourself; they were meant for the Heavenly Dao Academy. It is a shame that they didn’t come; otherwise, they would suffer the same fate as you!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor chillingly said.
This was a grand plan! The Tiger’s Howl School didn’t only want to kill the group of Li Qiye! If the ancestors of the Heavenly Dao Academy came to help him, they would also be killed.
“It is time to end this.” Li Qiye didn’t look at the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor, but rather, at the faint figure in the sky as he smiled: “Today, your Brilliance Ancient Kingdom will surely fall. My only regret is that I couldn’t wait for your real body so that I could use it to strengthen my own.”
“You deserve death!” The glare of the faint figure in the sky became extremely fierce. It was as if this figure could pierce through the endless river of time. When it became angry, even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King knelt down on the ground, sweating profusely.
“Boom!” The heaven and earth shook along with the entire Tiger’s Howl School. No, the entire Eastern Hundred Cities was shaking as if an Immortal Emperor was going on a journey to flip the entire region.
And it wasn’t just the Tiger’s Howl School, everyone in the Eastern Hundred Cities felt the appearance of an invincible existence. One step of his immediately trod across the entire world!
“Who came into being just now?” In this split second, countless old undyings opened their eyes from fear. Some even crawled out from the earth in shock. Even the souls of eternal existences fluttered away from fear.
“Boom!” Another loud explosion detonated. At this time, the entire Eastern Hundred Cities was like a little boat made out of a single leaf in a torrential storm. At the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, countless immortal lights and emperor auras were exuded, flooding the world as supreme formations were formed.
But all of this was for naught. Many people saw an astonishing scene; each and every defensive formation inside the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom was annihilated. A gigantic hand descended from the sky, shattering them one by one.
“The Realm God!” At the Ancient Kingdom’s deepest parts, a crazy scream emanated with a hint of unwillingness: “You are not supposed to be able to leave your ancestral vein!”
“That is a thing of the past!” A majestic and solemn voice came from the sky as a person landed. As something unable to be hindered by anything, it immediately walked into the deepest parts of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom.
“Rumble!” At this second, Immortal Emperor True Treasures soared to the sky along with many Immortal Emperor Life Treasures in order to engage the enemy!
“Break!” The Realm God was unbeatable. Its hand was holding onto a giant cauldron that poured divine flames in order to directly refine its enemies!
“The Chaos Cauldron!” Within the depths of the Ancient Kingdom, a person roared: “Realm God, do you wish for an irreconcilable blood feud with my Brilliance Ancient Kingdom!”
“Correct!” The Realm God rushed inside as the Chaos Cauldron kept on attacking. With rumbling explosions, the ancestral ground of the kingdom was annihilated. Then, the voice of the Realm God spanned across the earth: “The day when all of you attacked my Heavenly Dao Academy was the day that you should have known this would happen!”
“Die!” At this time, an extremely monstrous shadow from the depths soared up high and personally controlled all the emperor weapons!
Chapter 372 - Realm God Sweeping Through The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom
“The invincible Divine Beast Protector!” Countless old undyings saw this large shadow and movingly stated.
“You alone… won’t do!” The unbeatable Realm God directly slammed down with its Chaos Cauldron and blew the opponent away. Such a display of power terrified all the spectators!
“Realm God!” At this time, the faint figure above the Tiger’s Howl School madly shouted and then instantly broke into pieces without leaving behind a single remnant.
This scene surprised many people. The sudden destruction of a dao clone meant that the real body had suffered a grave wound and therefore couldn’t support the distant dao clone.
Many would have nightmares after today. At this second, an invincible aura swept through the entire Eastern Hundred Cities as all existences began to tremble in fear.
“No… How could this be… Shouldn’t the Realm God be rooted in the ancestral vein? How could it leave the Heavenly Dao Academy?” At this time, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor became haggard and said.
Many currently dumbstruck spectators, including the great powers’ ancestors, knew that the Realm God had lived for a very long time and was on the verge of dying. Unless the academy was facing certain destruction, it would not come into being. Moreover, it was rooted within the ancestral vein, and its inability to leave was also common knowledge. It would never leave the vein unless it was tired of living and wished to die from old age. However, the Realm God right now had no qualms with leaving the academy; it went by itself to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. What was the meaning of this?
“How could this be? Has the Realm God been reborn for another generation?” At this time, countless outsiders felt their hair standing on end as cold chills traveled through their spines.
Many became regretful for attacking the academy in the past. Back then, they assumed that the Realm God was no longer going to make it after having lived for so long, not to mention that it had become crazy. In their eyes, its death was all but assured.
Especially when the disaster fell upon the academy that year. The Realm God still didn’t appear, and this only further fortified their disposition regarding the Realm God’s inability to come into being.
At the moment, there was no sign of it weakening as it left the academy and killed its way into the ancient kingdom. This was not good news to those who once teamed up to siege the academy.
“Rumble!” The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom’s land began to sunder as the battle reached a new height with countless divine lights encompassing the entire area. Countless existences inside were suppressed to a state of prostration on the ground; they were unable to move one bit.
“Activate the emperor foundation!” The terrified voice of the Divine Beast Protector resounded across the earth. At this time, those who could hear this were shaking with fear. Without a doubt, even the Divine Beast Protector was not able to withstand the onslaught.
As an imperial light covered the ancient kingdom, it was as if an Immortal Emperor had come back to life. An invincible aura swept through the world and trapped the Realm God inside.
“Realm God, my Brilliance Ancient Kingdom is eternal. You can’t do anything before the emperor foundation of two emperors!” The Divine Beast Protector uttered in a craze.
“If your Immortal Emperors were still alive, then I might retreat. Alas, your emperors are no longer of this world, so your emperor foundation cannot trap me!” The extremely domineering Realm God, with its giant hand holding the Chaos Cauldron, tore the sky apart and rushed in without any hesitation.
Such a grand battle startled the entire Eastern Hundred Cities. Immortal Emperor True Treasures soared to the sky with Life Treasures everywhere; however, the Realm God was invincible. The Chaos Cauldron in its grasp was unstoppable even when facing True Treasures.
This was a battle that shook even the heavens. With the Realm God taking action, all contemporary great powers were aghast.
It was an extremely ancient being. Even though legends stated that it was unbeatable for a generation as the protector of the academy, something that could not be defeated even by Immortal Emperors, not everyone deemed this as trustworthy, especially when it had not fought in a very long time. And so, everyone who knew of its existence assumed that its lifespan and blood energy were completely dried up.
However, its attack today against the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom was of an unparalleled magnitude. At this time, everyone felt sweat forming on their bodies and understood that the phrase, “the Heavenly Dao Academy — unshakable for millions of years,” was not just mere empty words!
“It is our turn now!” At the Tiger’s Howl School, although no one could see the battle at the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, all the experts were astonished when they felt the invincible momentum. It was as if the Realm God was the sole ruler of this world. Many people finally calmed down while Li Qiye slowly looked at the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor and spoke.
In a state of panic, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor initially thought that this battle was already won with the Brilliance Divine Beast Protector’s dao clone personally arriving with four emperor weapons. They not only wanted to catch Li Qiye, but also all of the seven Ancient Ancestors if they decided to help Li Qiye.
However, in contrast to their expectations, only Li Qiye came; none of the seven Ancient Ancestors showed up. And the worst part was that the Realm God came into being and swept through the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom! Now, the dao clone of the beast didn’t even have the chance to attack before it disappeared. One could only imagine how terrifying this battle was if the true body of the divine beast protector became gravely wounded right from the start.
The guaranteed victory had been completely reversed, causing the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor to become pale. However, in the end, he was still a Virtuous Paragon capable of calling for the wind and summoning rain; he took a deep breath and made a decision before speaking in a cold tone: “The victor has yet to be decided!” At this point, his eyes fell onto the four emperor weapons.
The four emperor weapons were meant for the seven Ancient Ancestors so they were part of a sure-kill formation.
“You plan to control four emperor weapons with your withered blood energy?” Looking at the four emperor weapons, Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and then smilingly spoke: “Fine, I still need four suitable weapons! Make your move!”
At this time, he was fixated on the weapons from the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. He already had the Black Tortoise Rod, so these other four weapons were a perfect match for it.
“Go!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor suddenly disappeared from the horizon and emerged at the top of a peak. This was the focal point of the sure-kill formation. At this time, all of his blood energy gathered into this place to activate the four emperor weapons as they exuded an endless amount of emperor power!
“Ommm—” A buzzing sound resonated. The ancestor wanted to use this formation to kill Li Qiye, but the four weapons suddenly quivered and tore apart the void!
“Not good!” With an unexpected look on his face, Li Qiye wanted to take action, but he was too late. In a split second, the four emperor weapons tore apart the void and suddenly disappeared.
“Boom!” At this time, the sky at the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom became damaged to the point where a black hole was formed. At this moment, the immortal hymns of Immortal Emperors preaching the dao resounded in the air.
“So fast! I didn’t think the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom would have to utilize their true strength in such a short period of time!” Li Qiye suddenly felt regret. He didn’t think the kingdom had to use all of their might; they even summoned back their four emperor weapons at the Tiger’s Howl School!
“If I had known this, I would have taken action earlier!” Li Qiye knew that he should have unleashed his secret move earlier and seized the four emperor weapons before doing anything else. Now, it was all too late; the succulent duck before his mouth had flown away!
At this moment, many in the Eastern Hundred Cities were alarmed. They didn’t think that the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom would be on the verge of faltering due to the attack of the Realm God. They actually had to use their hidden strength after such a brief moment!
The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor’s face was now deathly pale. His biggest sure-kill method was suddenly gone. It was as if the heaven and earth no longer answered his prayers.
“Let us end this battle. This is your last chance to use whatever means you have. Otherwise, I shall refine this earth.” Li Qiye was in a bad mood after the four emperor weapons flew away. He no longer wanted to waste time and wished to end this battle so that he could run to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom and steal their creations.
With a livid look, the ancestor finally ground his teeth and harshly spoke after stomping on the ground: “Little Animal, we shall die together! Open the ominous graves!”
As his words fell, all of his remaining Longevity Blood spewed out onto the four ominous graves at the depths of the Tiger’s Howl ancestral ground. In an instant, the four graves became quite demonic.
“Rumble!” At this time, the entire school shook as if everything was affected by this sudden development.
A burst of grave-opening sounds rang loudly as an underworldly energy suddenly filled the sky, turning the school itself into hell.
The four ominous graves were finally opened with rumbling explosions appearing everywhere. Four monstrous images came out from the graves like four gods of death!
A towering gloom and ghastly aura surged throughout the school with the four great images standing above it as if they wanted to turn this place into a land of death.
“The legendary ominous graves of the four images!” Many people right outside of the school suddenly shivered since these images were extremely daunting.
The White Tiger, the Azure Dragon, the Vermillion Bird, and the Black Tortoise — these huge shadows stood there like four mythical beasts. Their empty eyes caused others to feel the creeps.
“These are extremely legendary existences that were refined into the ancestral foundation of the school by its Progenitor, the Tiger God!”
Chapter 373 - Four Ominous Images
“Slay!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor uttered a loud cry as all of his blood energy was consumed by the four ominous graves. Regardless of the outcome of this battle, his death was assured. Even if Li Qiye didn’t kill him, he was doomed to die of old age.
“Rumble!” The four great images came pressing forward with an endless amount of dark energy.
“Bang!” Li Qiye met this attack with the emperor weapons, but he was still blown away. Nevertheless, he roared as the sky became bright due to his hovering grand dao. At this time, Li Qiye revealed all of his strongest techniques: Thousand Hands Against the Nine Worlds, Daylight Immortal Secret, and Nine Sun Locking Heaven Law.
With the hands lifting up three thousand minor worlds, their combined power aggregated on the two emperor weapons. The Heaven’s Will Secret Law descended like a heavenly path with all of the forces in the world focused on Li Qiye’s body. The nine suns began to rise as an endless amount of refined flames became the most powerful catalyst for the two emperor weapons…
“Boom!” After a loud blast, the two emperor weapons in Li Qiye’s hands exuded an immemorial emperor power to stop the suppression from the four great images.
However, like before, Li Qiye was still unable to withstand this force. At this time, the grand dao shattered as the earth beneath his feet fractured. Rivers and ancient pavilions all fell apart as the universal laws under the Tiger’s Howl School could no longer protect this area. Thick strands of laws began to burst.
In a short period of time, miserable screams emanated throughout the school. Many disciples brought along the young and old to escape from this place that was facing its impending doom.
“Poof! Poof! Poof!” At the worst possible time, a problem appeared on Li Qiye’s body. His True Fate appeared to be affected by the four images as an evil aura emerged and spewed out countless flames. These evil flames towered over Li Qiye like a tide and turned into a terrifying vortex that wanted to engulf him!
“Fate Calamity!” Seeing this evil ocean-like vortex appearing above his head, even the group of Li Shuangyan was shocked. His Fate Calamity picked the worst time to appear.
“Not good, Li Qiye’s Fate Calamity appeared!” Many people outside of the Tiger’s Howl School were astonished when they saw this torrential vortex.
“Even the heavens wish to destroy you!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor let out a crazed laughter and ordered the remaining elders and protectors: “Use all of our refined jades and open all the ancestral foundations. Today, if our enemies do not die, then we shall perish!”
A loud sound exploded after his command. The light of refined jades came forth from the deepest part of the school, followed by the surging evil aura of the four ominous graves as if the entrance to hell had been opened. This dark energy was immediately devoured by the four giant images. They became much stronger as they came down on Li Qiye. Li Qiye spewed out spurts of blood while retreating. Each of his steps carried a force so great that it shattered mountains and peaks.
At this time, the school let go of all caution and unleashed all of their ancestral foundations. In a short amount of time, the earth shattered and only the elders and protectors remained. All of the weak disciples carried the old and young to the outside!
“Om—!” An even more terrifying thing happened after a buzzing sound. An extremely huge evil gate opened in the horizon with billowing dark energy like a raging ocean. It was as if this gate wanted to turn this location into a land of evil.
“The Fate Calamity’s tribulation is here!” Countless people outside of the school looked up to see the evil gate opening its doors in the sky, creating many ominous phenomena. All of the spectators were stricken with horror.
“This heart demon is so powerful. Only a six palace Royal Noble would have such a powerful Fate Calamity.” Some in the distance were startled while others were gloating at Li Qiye’s misfortune.
“Hahaha, Little Animal, the heavens surely shall end you!” After seeing so many evil images descending from the sky, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor wildly laughed.
“Time to end this. Take a look at my trump card!” Li Qiye was not afraid and laughed contrary to expectations. With a boom, his six palaces turned into an endless domain that was filled with primordial energy.
“Boom!” The tiger vein of the Tiger’s Howl School was torn apart as the earth itself cracked.
Inside Li Qiye’s absolute domain was a huge lake filled with worldly essence; the Terra’s Root was growing inside this lake.
An incredible thing happened at this time. The endless worldly energy from the crack in the tiger vein suddenly spewed out a huge pillar that was crazily absorbed by Li Qiye’s domain!
“No!” The Tiger’s Howl Ancestor bellowed and didn’t dare to believe his eyes. This was an impossible matter since even he couldn’t control the worldly essence from the White Tiger Vein. Even their Progenitor, the Tiger God, could barely control it. Yet, at this moment, its worldly essence was suddenly devoured by Li Qiye. He was completely reluctant to believe such a thing was happening!
“How is this possible!?” Even the spectators outside were stunned at Li Qiye’s domain suddenly swallowing the worldly essence of the White Tiger Vein. One shouldn’t be able to control this grand vein, let alone swallow its energy.
However, no one knew that the Terra’s Root of this place had already been refined by Li Qiye and was now firmly planted in his domain. With its help, devouring the energy of this entire White Tiger Vein was a trivial matter.
“Bang!” After he finished the devouring process, his absolute domain suddenly turned into his third eye, immediately bringing forth the hottest and brightest radiance. At this time, his absolute domain seemed to be the origin of the grand dao as it burst with its power; this was the strongest orderly dao that could crush all things!
Before the countless evil images that were being released from the evil sea above Li Qiye’s head could descend to the ground, they were all rendered into ashes before this invincible and destructive blow from the brightest radiance.
“I was waiting for this moment!” Li Qiye, in the most elegant manner, destroyed his Fate Calamity — easy and absolutely perfect.
All of this happened in the mere blink of an eye. From devouring the worldly essence of the tiger vein and using one blow to destroy the Fate Calamity’s Tribulation, barely any time had elapsed.
Everyone stared with their mouths wide open since they had never seen such a shocking scene before. One blow to surpass the Fate Calamity and completely destroy it!
“It is over!” Li Qiye’s expression darkened. With the Immortal’s Blood Spear in his hand, he threw it down. This was a strike to punish the gods and devils! A spear that sent fear into the hearts of myriad worlds! Something that was capable of causing the downfall of gods and warranting retreat from Immortal Emperors! When this spear was thrown, it left an indelible mark in the horizon!
In a great battle, tearing apart the sky was a common thing. Even if the sky was split, it would easily recover since very few people could destroy the fabric of time and space forever. However, this spear left behind an everlasting mark that was unlikely to go away for a very long time!
Regardless of whether they were outside the Tiger’s Howl School or simply within the Eastern Hundred Cities, countless people were forced to prostrate on the ground. At this moment, many ancestors from the great powers lost their minds from fear.
“Someone is unleashing an Imperial Massacre or a Heavenly Annihilation!?” An old ancestor let out a loud scream.
An Imperial Massacre was the ultimate blow of an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure. Outside of Immortal Emperors, very few descendants could unleash such an attack. A Heavenly Annihilation, on the other hand, was the ultimate attack of an Immortal Emperor True Treasure!
These attacks were just like their names: the massacre committed by Immortal Emperors or the annihilation carried out by the high heavens! These were the most terrifying attacks this world would face, and even Virtuous Paragons would lose their colors when they heard about them!
“No!” In the end, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor let out an indignant scream. With a loud explosion, the ancestral ground of the school was suddenly wiped out, leaving only a bottomless black crater!
At this time, Li Qiye carried the Immortal’s Blood Spear with a frightening murderous intent that filled the entire horizon. Even the old undyings that hid in the darkness to watch the fight felt their legs give out. As for existences like the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King, they lay flat on the floor after being completely horrified.
Some of the stunned spectators had their mouths open so wide that one could fit an egg inside. Some would find that their jaws became dislocated from this shock!
Under this one spear, the ancestral ground of the school became ashes. This place that once resembled a giant tiger had fragmented as countless mountains and rivers collapsed while the main area became a horrifying crater.
“What a shame.” Li Qiye put away the Immortal’s Blood Spear and murmured: “One step too late from seizing the Immortal Emperor True Treasure!”
He borrowed the spear from Zi Cuining in order to suppress the true treasure, but he took action way too late!
“We’re going!” In the end, while the group of Li Shuangyan was still in a daze, Li Qiye commanded. They all woke up immediately and followed him right away.
“Even the heavens wish to destroy you!”
“Hahaha, Little Animal, the heavens surely shall end you!”
Chapter 374 - Intimidating The Eastern Hundred Cities
Sikong Toutian and the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King would have nightmares from this event. This was too domineering; they had never seen a Fate Calamity get destroyed in one blow without even having the chance to fight back! Under this one spear, the Tiger’s Howl Ancestor, four ominous graves, and even the school’s ancestral ground became nothing in an instant.
“An Imperial Massacre! No, it had to be a Heavenly Annihilation!” A long time after Li Qiye’s group left, the people who were in a daze finally calmed down and exclaimed in shock.
“Heavenly Annihilation — the ultimate attack in this world!” Many looked at the ancestral ground that was now a dark crater, then they looked at the unerasable remnant in the sky. They felt their entire bodies become slowly drenched in cold sweat.
Even the spectating ancestors from the great powers were shivering since even they would die under such a blow!
However, they didn’t know that it was not a Heavenly Annihilation nor an Imperial Massacre. Li Qiye’s Immortal’s Blood Spear was neither a Life treasure nor True Treasure! It was just that this spear had once tasted the blood of an Immortal Emperor as it pierced through his throat!
Li Qiye took the group of Li Shuangyan on a journey to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. He was not willing to accept the escape of the Evil Subduing Rod; he wanted to seize it as the Realm God was attacking the ancient kingdom.
However, before he could reach it, a thunderous message spread across the Eastern Hundred Cities that left everyone aghast. “The Brilliance Divine Beast Protector has been slain by the Realm God! The ancient kingdom has surrendered!”
The Brilliance Ancient Kingdom — one sect with two emperors. This unshakable monster within the Eastern Hundred Cities had to surrender before the murderous might of the Realm God!
“The Realm God has shown mercy to the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. The kingdom will pay ten times the losses the academy suffered last year and will declare a state of containment. They will never come into being again!” While everyone was still dumbfounded from shock due to the first piece of news, the second piece of news that was even more shocking arrived.
Everyone became paralyzed for a long time; an Ancient Kingdom had been defeated!
“The Realm God is too fast!” Li Qiye heard the news before they arrived and couldn’t help but smile awkwardly. Since the Realm God forgave the ancient kingdom, there was no chance for him to get the Evil Subduing Rod.
“The Realm God is too merciful.” Even the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King couldn’t help but say.
Sikong Toutian shook his head in response: “The Heavenly Dao Academy had always been like this. Also, destroying the Brilliance emperor foundation must not be so easy. It was very likely that the Realm God didn’t want to leave the academy for so long, so it spared the ancient kingdom.”
“Damn! Let us go, I have lost an Immortal Emperor True Treasure!” Li Qiye was quite annoyed and regretted delaying his first move. If he knew this was going to happen, he would have suppressed the True Treasure first before doing anything else.
The terrifying news regarding the ancient kingdom’s defeat and the destruction of the Tiger’s Howl School swept through the Eastern Hundred Cities overnight, startling countless people.
“This generation is over for the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. Even though the merciful Realm God spared the kingdom, its Divine Beast Protector, all of its ancestors, and even the elders and protectors died in the battle! After just one fight, the elites of the kingdom were basically wiped out. Even if they sealed their kingdom for a generation, they would not be able to recover and will be on the decline from now on.” An ancestor who witnessed the battle with his own eyes spoke with his back still drenched in cold sweat.
The Realm God’s domination could even take down a monstrous existence with two emperors, so what other lineages dared to oppose the academy now?
During the time when people were still trying to cope with this news, on the second day, right outside of the Heavenly Dao Academy, a group of gray-haired old men all prostrated right outside of the academy. These were all famed existences, the ancestors of the great powers that were involved in the alliance that sieged the academy that year!
“The great powers’ ancestors who participated in that battle are kneeling right outside of the academy’s entrance. They’re ready to accept their punishment and are willing to commit suicide to make amends!” This shocking news quickly got out.
Even many students from the academy were unable to remain calm. These gray-haired old men prostrating before their gate were all apex existences that could look down with disdain towards Heavenly Kings. But today, they were all kneeling for forgiveness!
The fate of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom scared everyone shitless. The great powers who participated in that alliance couldn’t do anything except admit their crimes; their ancestors were willing to kneel down before the academy and pay for all the damage the academy suffered last year. They were even willing to commit suicide as long as the Realm God agreed to spare their sects just like how it spared the ancient kingdom!
The other great powers were not comparable to a duel emperor sect like the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom, so opposing the academy was like throwing an egg at a stone. Ultimately, these ancestors didn’t dare to waste time on thinking. They all ran here overnight to kneel before the academy and beg the Realm God to forgive their sects!
The sheer amount of ancestors kneeling right outside the academy created a scenery that would render spectators speechless.
“This is how a man should be!” After seeing this scene, Chi Xiaodao, who managed to barely escape with his life, felt his blood boil.
Li Qiye smiled and said: “There will come a day when myriad races in the Nine Worlds come to pay tribute to me, and all the gods and devils shall prostrate before me.”
These overbearing words astonished the group of Sikong Toutian. It sounded so arrogant that it was almost to the point of being ignorant, but at this second, it was as if they could envision the scene foretold by Li Qiye!
After this heaven-shaking battle, the entire Eastern Hundred Cities was in a state of panic, especially those great powers who participated in the battle that year. It was as if a calamity was looming over their heads.
The Realm God sweeping over the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom in one night had scared many people witless; if an Immortal Emperor did not come out, there might not be anyone who was capable of fighting the Realm God.
On the third day, after paying a substantial price to earn the Realm God’s forgiveness, many great powers were finally able to breathe a sigh of relief since they were finally able to avert this disaster!
Ever since the Black Dragon King fought against Immortal Emperor Ta Kong, there had not been an event as great as the decline of the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom. Even a dual emperor monster could fall before the might of an invincible existence, so no other great powers were safe.
Compared to the defeat of the ancient kingdom, the destruction of the Tiger’s Howl School was not a hot topic. This was not anything strange. Since the school and the ancient kingdom were not even close to the same level, its destruction was not as impressive.
It was not until four or five day later when everyone recovered from the shock of the ancient kingdom’s defeat did the destruction of the Tiger’s Howl School come into the view of many great powers.
“One wrong move from the Tiger’s Howl School costed them everything. They lost the inheritance that was accumulated bit by bit by their past ancestors.” After hearing the news, a person lamented with emotion.
Another person added: “The Tiger’s Howl School is finished. It is just like what Li Qiye said, there will no longer be a Tiger’s Howl School at the Eastern Hundred Cities from now on!”
At that time, Li Qiye had announced that the school’s name would be erased from the Eastern Hundred Cities. Countless people then sneered at his overestimation of his own abilities. However, those people were now regretting everything. Why did they feel the need to mouth off Li Qiye in such a manner? What if Li Qiye retaliated? Wouldn’t they become the second Tiger’s Howl School!?
In the eyes of many, the Tiger’s Howl School was finished, but there was still a chance for the Brilliance Ancient Kingdom in the far future. This generation was finished for them since they had to seal themselves, but their emperor foundation still remained. This was not the case for the Tiger’s Howl School. It lost its ancestral foundation, and moreover, even its White Tiger Great Vein had been sucked dry of its worldly essence by Li Qiye, so only ruins remained.
Although many disciples managed to escape, the loss of the ancestral foundation and the great vein had completely cut off all hope for the school.
A great power could come back from losing its elites in battle and also endure the loss of weapons and merit laws. After all, any great power could find all of these things in the future and train new personnel.
However, the destruction of the ancestral foundation was irrecoverable. The ancestral foundations of these great powers were all paved by extremely powerful existences. If one was not a Virtuous Paragon, then they would not even be qualified to talk about erecting a kingdom or a sect.
The ancestral foundation of a power was the embodiment of the effort of the past sages. It was the result of their blood and sweat of countless generations.
Fixing a destroyed ancestral foundation was even more difficult than reaching for the heavens.
However, what was even more disastrous was the destruction of the great vein. This was the real cause for despair.
Chapter 375 - Preparing For The Journey
Take a step back and look at the overarching situation. Even if a great power’s ancestral foundation was destroyed, it would still have the chance to be rebuilt in the future. However, if a great vein was destroyed, then it would truly be over. Great veins were created by the heaven and earth after millions of years of accumulation.
A destroyed ancestral foundation meant that it could not be recovered for a generation, but a destroyed great vein meant that it could never be rebuilt!
After both were destroyed, even when their young and old managed to escape along with some disciples, there was no chance for them to rebuild the Tiger’s Howl School.
Regarding this topic, a sect master emotionally said: “Destroying a sect just like he said… This Li Qiye is really too heaven-defying and devilish. As long as he is alive, all of the other descendants from both the great powers and ancient kingdoms will be completely eclipsed. This isn’t the work of a human!”
To single-handedly destroy a great power… Forget about the younger generation, even predecessors at the Heavenly King realm didn’t have this kind of power. Even the legendary four ominous graves of the Tiger’s Howl School couldn’t stop him, so how could people not become horrified?
At this point, whenever the conversation was about Li Qiye, the other geniuses from many lineages turned sour as they could only stay silent.
Back in those days when Li Qiye had just arrived at the Eastern Hundred Cities, many geniuses and descendants paid him no mind. However, after sweeping through everything and destroying the Tiger’s Howl School, all of those geniuses who once looked down on him were frightened and found themselves lacking when compared to him.
“With the current situation, I’m afraid even Goddess Mei Suyao and Deity Jikong Wudi have been overshadowed by Li Qiye. With a fierce monster like him, would any other young person have a chance to shine?” A great character from the last generation exasperatedly said.
A prosperous age arrived with the end of the Difficult Dao Era, so many great powers hoped that their disciples could compete for the apex against all the other heroes of this generation. Before this, geniuses like Hu Yue, Ba Xia, Zu Huangwu, and Heavenly Prince Qing Xuan were already running the other young prodigies out of breath.
As for Mei Suyao and Jikong Wudi, these two were at an unreachable height. Like divine mountains, they blocked the path of the entire younger generation.
However, the Li Qiye of today sent countless peers into despair. As long as he remained in the Eastern Hundred Cities, they would only feel fear. Every young cultivator had to retreat before his sight. Since he could destroy a grand sect, who could manage to oppose him?
This storm of a discussion lasted for a long time; some were happy and some were sad regarding such a great event.
When many were bustling and busy with small talk, Li Qiye had returned to the Heavenly Dao Academy. However, before his return, he summoned the Lion’s Roar Heavenly King.
The Heavenly King was a famous character even amongst the previous generation’s experts. But today, he didn’t dare to put on a show before Li Qiye.
Li Qiye took out the ancient box that Lion Monarch Ba Xia gave him. This box was meant for the Heavenly King. After opening the box, he was completely taken aback.
“This… This is my ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law! How is this possible?” The Lion’s Roar Heavenly King stuttered in astonishment: “E-even my clan did not have this!”
Chi Xiaodao, Chi Xiaodie, and their father — who were beside him — were also shocked. An Immortal Physique Law was something that even Immortal Emperor lineages coveted.
The Heavenly King stared at Li Qiye in disbelief, since this item that was not even in their clan’s possession was in his hands.
In their clan, there was a rumor that the lost Immortal Physique Law was taken away by their ancestor. In exchange, their ancestor left behind a copy, but later on, even the copy was lost. From that point on, their clan no longer had an Immortal Physique Law.
“It is nothing.” Li Qiye nonchalantly said: “I have met your ancestor back at the Heavenly Corpse Burial Ground and sowed a karmic fruit with him. I promised him to let his descendants reap the benefits of the fruit, so I am here to give you back your ancestor’s belonging.”
“The Heavenly Corpse Burial Ground!” The Heavenly King was too dumbfounded to speak. After a while, he managed to calm down. He took a deep breath before speaking: “So our ancestor truly is staying at the burial ground! I have also tried to go there, but unfortunately, I couldn’t go in very deep!”
The Heavenly King had heard of their ancestor being buried at the heavenly ground. After their Immortal Physique Law was lost, he wanted to go inside to find their ancestor, but what kind of place was the burial ground? Even a Heavenly King would find it difficult to enter the burial ground, let alone reach the legendary dragon vein where the ancestor was buried.
So even though he tried to explore the location, it was an unsuccessful endeavor. In the end, he couldn’t do anything and had to give up, so he shifted his gaze towards the Heavenly Dao Academy.
After a long struggle, he managed to calm down and bowed to Li Qiye: “Your kindness to our Lion’s Roar Gate cannot be described with mere words. From now on, if you ever find yourself in need of our assistance, we shall do our best without any hesitation no matter how arduous the task may be!”
The excitement in the Heavenly King’s mind was unspeakable. This was an item craved by all, yet Li Qiye gave it to him so easily!
For him, this was too important. He was missing the complete version of his ancestor’s law, so Li Qiye giving this back was akin to giving him coal during the cold, wintry days!
One has to keep in mind that the Heavenly King was a natural born Saint Physique, so his aptitude was very high. However, despite his great circumstances, he spent his whole life to barely reach the minor completion of his Immortal Physique, and this was with the help of the hall masters of the academy that found an Immortal Physique Law of his ancestor.
Today, Li Qiye bringing back their ancestor’s Immortal Physique Law was of great significance to both the Heavenly King and his sect.
Regarding the Heavenly King’s pledge of allegiance, Li Qiye only smiled and didn’t say anything else. He then immediately left with the group of Li Shuangyan.
Before his departure, the Heavenly King spoke privately to Chi Xiaodie. In his opinion, his granddaughter’s future was boundless if she followed Li Qiye, so that was his hope.
Li Qiye went back to the Heavenly Dao Academy where all the geniuses from both the Zenith Era Hall and Sacred Era Hall lost their colors before him. Especially those who were antagonistic towards him in the past, they quickly took the scenic route whenever they caught a glimpse of him. How could they mess with someone who easily destroyed the Tiger’s Howl School? Wouldn’t that be courting death?
As for the disciples of the Grand Era Hall, its students were ecstatic to hear of his return and they even put on a very warm welcoming ceremony. There were so many enthusiastic sisters that it became a bit unbearable for Li Qiye, so he left this trifling matter to Chi Xiaodie. He was too lazy to show himself afterward.
He no longer intended to stay here any longer; instead, he planned to go to the Sacred Nether World!
After appointing a time with the Realm God, Li Qiye prepared to leave. But before the decided time, Li Qiye spoke to Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao: “The two of you should go back. I will come back after dealing with my business at the Sacred Nether World.”
“How about we go with you to the Sacred Nether World?” Chen Baojiao didn’t dare to ask, but Li Shuangyan wanted to tag along.
Li Qiye smiled and shook his head to say: “Under normal circumstances, I would surely take you two along, but right now, it is not possible. The world path connecting the nine worlds had been destroyed, so the spatial wall is very hard to crack. Although the Realm God has the power to open the spatial wall, it is still very dangerous. Having more people go would only add to the Realm God’s burden. And what’s even more crucial is that my destination is a bit problematic, so you guys following me will only add to the mess. Next time, I will take you guys along to the other worlds.”
Relative to others, Li Qiye favored and thought highly of Chen Baojiao and Li Shuangyan.
The two indeed wanted to go to the Sacred Nether World to broaden their horizons, but after hearing what Li Qiye said, they had to give up on this thought. In the end, nothing was more important to them than Li Qiye’s safety.
Eventually, Li Qiye took out the Black Tortoise Rod and the Imperial Violet Hammer. He wanted to let the two take them back to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, so he reminded them: “Try your best not to use these items unless there is no other choice. Let them be the secret treasures of the sect.”
Immortal Emperor Life Treasures were definitely things that could incite the greedy hearts of others; any sect would desire this kind of powerful item. Not to mention that his weapons were also taken by force, thus giving others a justifiable reason to steal them. Li Qiye hoped for the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect to use them carefully in order to avoid trouble in the future.
“What about you?” Li Shuangyan and Chen Baojiao were startled by this, and Chen Baojiao had to ask. Regardless of who it was, having two emperor weapons as protection was better than anything else.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but reveal a smile to say: “Your Young Noble has many protective treasures. These are only Life Treasures — not anything, really. Next time, I will seize a few Immortal Emperor True Treasures.”
Chen Baojiao couldn’t help but chuckle upon hearing this, and Li Shuangyan also smiled. To others, emperor weapons were something that they could only come upon with luck and fate, but their Young Noble made it sound as if they were easily obtainable.
Chapter 376 - Past Grievances
Before leaving for the Sacred Nether World, Li Qiye returned the Immortal’s Blood Spear to Zi Cuining. She then asked after accepting the spear: “I have to go back to the Heaven Protector City, do you have anything that you want me to do?”
Li Qiye gave her a look and smiled: “Even if I have something for you to do, I’m afraid you wouldn’t believe me. Forget it, I’ll personally visit your Heaven Protector City later.”
In fact, he would have gone to the Heaven Protector City sooner or later anyway. However, he was not in a rush at the moment. Although he didn’t mind starting a massacre at the Heaven Protector City, out of love for the Black Dragon King, he didn’t hope that it would escalate to such a state.
“Tell me. If I am capable, then I will surely lend you a hand!” Zi Cuining pondered for a moment before speaking.
Li Qiye was all smiles as he said: “If you really want my advice, then I’ll give you one: keep an eye out for Gu Zun.”
Zi Cuining’s mind trembled after she heard Li Qiye’s words. Keep in mind that Gu Zun was an elder of their Heaven Protector City, the one who was truly in power. One could even describe him as their high ancestor.
And now, an outsider wants her, the descendant, to watch out for her own ancestor! If it was anyone else, they would surely think that Li Qiye was crazy.
“See, you do not believe me at all.” Li Qiye waved his hand and smiled: “Just let it be up to fate. Do whatever you want as long as you maintain a hint of caution.”
Zi Cuining became silent for a moment. However, she wasn’t able to hold back her question: “Do you have some sort of grievance with our Ancestor Gu?”
“Grievance?” Li Qiye squinted his eyes and gently shook his head as he smiled: “Frankly, your Gu Zun is still not worthy of having a feud with me!”
If it wasn’t because of the Black Dragon King’s plea, Li Qiye would have already killed Gu Zun in a past era instead of letting him do as he pleased at the Heaven Protector City.
However, he chose not to bring this up.
Zi Cuining’s gaze became serious. Any other listener would think that Li Qiye’s tone was too boastful because Gu Zun of the Heaven Protector City was one of the strongest existences. Perhaps, he was only a little bit weaker than the Realm God!
She became quite perplexed because their Ancestor Gu had not come into being for a very long time. Logically speaking, he should have never met Li Qiye, so there should not have been a chance for grievances to form between the two of them. However, Li Qiye was clearly antagonistic towards him.
“All right, Little Girl, I know you have a lot of questions on your mind, but I cannot reveal many things to you. In short, you came from the Little Sea Village, so you will not be on the same side as Old Man Gu Zun. Regarding this, you can go talk to the old men in the village.”
“As for Gu Zun ah… If you really want to know, then I can tell you one thing.” Li Qiye greatly valued Zi Cuining, so he revealed one thing to her: “Your Heaven Protector City has a certain treasury, a real treasure trove that is vastly superior to your city’s treasury!”
“A treasury…” Zi Cuining was stunned for a moment with a shocked expression! She was then reminded of a few things that were not talked about back at the city. Its disciples did not know about this, and she only sometimes heard a few ancestors talk about it in secrecy, so she didn’t know the exact details regarding this particular treasury.
Now, Li Qiye raised this issue that was unbeknown to her, the official descendant of the city, as if he knew everything.
“It seems that you don’t know about this matter!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “It does not belong to your Heaven Protector City, but Gu Zun had coveted it for a very long time!”
This was Li Qiye’s treasury! But of course, he could not say these words.
“What kind of treasury is it?” Zi Cuining took a deep breath and asked after failing to hold onto her curiosity.
“Well, how should I say this…” Li Qiye smiled and leisurely said: “If Immortal Emperors knew about this treasury, they would start to salivate uncontrollably. There are things in there that even they do not possess!”
Zi Cuining couldn’t help but become astounded. A treasury coveted even by Immortal Emperors! Just what kind of treasury was this?
“Gu Zun had been after this treasury for a very long time, but unfortunately for him, he would not be able to open it even if he had ten generations of time.” Li Qiye shook his head and said: “Your so-called ancestor is only an ungrateful wretch. Too much time has passed, and your city’s ancestors have nearly all passed away. That year, if it wasn’t for the intercession of your Patriarch, the Black Dragon King, an ingrate like Gu Zun would have been thrown into the Blue Abyss a long time ago!”
“You are besmirching our ancestor’s name!” Zi Cuining could no longer bear it and had to protest. In the end, she was still the Heaven Protector descendant.
Li Qiye gently shook his head and replied with a smile: “It is fine if you don’t believe me. If there is still an old man from the same generation as Gu Zun, you can go back and ask about it to see whether or not Gu Zun was nearly thrown into the Blue Abyss that year. If it wasn’t for your Black Dragon King… Hah! Even if he had ten more lives, it still wouldn’t be enough!”
The stunned Zi Cuining had to think about this for a moment. When their Patriarch, the Black Dragon King, was still of this world, their city’s prestige towered over the Nine Worlds. Who would dare to oppose them? Who would actually dare to capture their Ancestor Gu and attempt to throw him into the Blue Abyss only to have their Patriarch intervene?
A very long time ago, Li Qiye wanted to kill Gu Zun. However, the Black Dragon King had promised a certain somebody to take care of her descendants. During that era, Li Qiye ordered his followers to capture Gu Zun and throw him into the Blue Abyss, but he was let go on account of the Black Dragon King.
Zi Cuining was in a daze since she had never heard of this tale before. She couldn’t even imagine it. Who would dare to capture Ancestor Zu while their Patriarch was still alive?
This was definitely a tale that could pierce the heavens, but there were no rumors about it at the Heaven Protector City. Zi Cuining became quite curious about what type of person was it that warranted their Patriarch’s personal plea!?
“No need to think too much, just do a good job at cultivating. The matter of Old Man Gu cannot be inquired with your current cultivation!” Li Qiye shook his head and continued on: “Wait until you are powerful enough to be in charge of the Heaven Protector City. Then, I will let you know. Right now, all you need to do is cultivate well. Do not disappoint me.”
After hearing this, Zi Cuining paused for a moment, especially because of the implications of his last sentence.
Zi Cuining didn’t understand why Li Qiye knew so much about their Heaven Protector City at all, but she felt that there was a great relationship between Li Qiye and the city. It was just that she was not privy to the exact details.
After meeting Li Qiye, she felt that there were many secrets behind the city that she did not know.
Sometimes, she even suspected that the reason behind her becoming the descendant of the city was not so simple. A long time ago, an ancestor once told her that she had unparalleled talents and was chosen as the new descendant by the other elders. Later on, there was another rumor saying that she was the heir chosen by the Patriarch many generations ago.
To this day, she herself was in doubt about whether becoming the descendant was due to her own talents, or if it was due to the Black Dragon King choosing her since she came from the Little Sea Village.
She had absolute confidence in her talents, but after experiencing a few things, she felt that the selection for her to become the successor was more than what it appeared to be on the surface.
Especially after meeting Li Qiye, she became suspicious of both of these possibilities. Perhaps it was not the Black Dragon King’s choice, and perhaps it wasn’t even because of her unparalleled talents. It could be an unknown reason that stemmed from behind the scenes.
“All right, Little Girl, don’t think too much!” Seeing her in a daze, Li Qiye shook his head and said with a smile: “There are certain things that you would be better off not knowing right now. The only thing you need to do is to train in peace!”
Zi Cuining finally took a deep breath and said: “Very well, I will wait for you to come to my Heaven Protector City in the future!”
Li Qiye smiled and said: “I certainly must go to the Heaven Protector City, but you shouldn’t look forward to it too much. My trip to the city will not necessarily be a good thing. If it does not bode well, then rivers will run with blood!”
With a shaken heart, Zi Cuining quietly left. She immediately departed from the academy on that very day to run back to the Heaven Protector City.
After she left, Li Qiye couldn’t help but sigh softly.
Before Li Qiye’s trip to the Sacred Nether World could begin, Old Daoist Peng came to see him. Of course, he didn’t come to see Li Qiye off.
“Hehe, I heard from the Realm God that Young Noble Li wants to go to the Sacred Nether World!” The old daoist said with a grin.
Li Qiye gave him a look and said: “If you have something to say, then say it. Don’t walk in circles with me!” 1
The old daoist let out an awkward laugh and replied: “Heh, I heard that the Sacred Nether World’s Islet Ghost Eyes is a delicacy known throughout the Nine Worlds. This old daoist wants to have a taste, and since Young Noble Li is going to the Sacred Nether World, do you mind taking me along?”
Li Qiye glared at him and said: “You should be asking the Realm God, not me. So? Did it refuse you?”
The old daoist was very embarrassed and tried to hide it with a smile. Li Qiye shook his head and said: “Forget it, this is an impossible matter. My destination is a bit problematic, and the Realm God cannot guarantee an accurate landing. Not to mention, rather than bringing an old man like you to the Sacred Nether World, I would rather bring a beauty as my companion. At least she would be more pleasing to the eyes than you.”
Before leaving for the Sacred Nether World, Li Qiye returned the Immortal’s Blood Spear to Zi Cuining. She then asked after accepting the spear: “I have to go back to the Heaven Protector City, do you have anything that you want me to do?”
Li Qiye gave her a look and smiled: “Even if I have something for you to do, I’m afraid you still wouldn’t believe me. Forget it, I’ll personally visit your Heaven Protector City later.”
In fact, he would go to the Heaven Protector City sooner or later anyway. However, he was not in a rush at the moment. Although he didn’t mind starting a massacre at the Heaven Protector City, out of love for the Black Dragon King, he didn’t hope that it would escalate to such a state.
“Tell me. If I am capable, then I will surely lend you a hand!” Zi Cuining pondered for a moment before speaking.
Chapter 377 - Departure
Li Qiye’s words left the old daoist with a sad face. Then, Li Qiye looked at him and continued on: “It might seem that you are firm, but your heart has been wavering. If you continue on like this, when will you ever finish cultivating the Eternal Physique?”
The old face of the daoist became hot as he forced a wry smile: “Hehehe, it is only a little trip to the outside. Cultivating day after day is very boring. Taking in some fresh air will help my cultivation.”
“If that is the case, then you should take a trip to the Grand Middle Territory.” Li Qiye became serious and said: “There are a few secret realms in that region. I can tell you some of the locations, so you can try to find some supreme delicacies. And since you will already be in the region, you can just stay at the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect for around ten years as a guest elder. It would not be a bad choice.”
“Hah, you want to drag me into a pit of fire!” Old Daoist Peng was not willing to do so and replied: “This would be a laborious trip…” The old daoist was as cunning as a devil.
Li Qiye glanced at him and leisurely said with a smile: “If you don’t want to go, then I won’t force you. However, I think there really are ruins from the Legendary Era that had not been visited by anyone for a long long time. The divine carp in that sacred lake might have become a god… Buzhou Mountain’s Snapper… This must be the most delicious thing in this world, something that only belongs in the land of fairies…” 1
Li Qiye then swayed his head around as if he was imagining this unique and extremely delicious fish.
“Buzhou Mountain’s Snapper…” After hearing these words, the old daoist couldn’t help but swallow his saliva several times before asking: “Where are these ruins located?”
“Oh?” Li Qiye stretched his words a lot and said: “Such a good location… I could only let the guest elders of my sect know. How could I possibly tell an outsider about it?”
“Hehehe, I will go discuss it with my little brothers. If they give me permission, then I will go to the Grand Middle Territory!” The old daoist quickly rubbed his hands together and eagerly spoke.
Li Qiye laughed and told him the location of several places. After listening, the old daoist crazily gulped several times as if the delicacies were right before his eyes. He then loudly exclaimed before disappearing like a bolt of lightning: “I will go and discuss it with my little brothers!”
Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile as he watched the speeding figure of the old daoist. If the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had an expert like the old daoist as a guest, then it would become even more powerful!
Before leaving, Li Qiye went to see Chi Xiaodie and said: “Return to the Lion’s Roar Gate. And if you want to stay at the academy, then just stay for one to two more years. Staying any longer would be unnecessary.”
Chi Xiaodie looked at him with rampant and indescribable emotions. She wanted to say something, but the words wouldn’t come out. In the end, she could only put on a dejected look.
“Silly girl.” Li Qiye gently stroked her hair and said: “I will one day come back to the Eastern Hundred Cities. Of course, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect will always welcome you as well.”
She finally relaxed with a smile after hearing this, but she still didn’t say anything in the end.
The day of the trip had finally arrived, and Li Qiye was well prepared. He immediately went to the Realm God’s dwelling with Li Shuangyan and the other girls sending him off; Old Daoist Peng tagged along as well.
As they passed by the Elegant Peak, Li Qiye couldn’t help but look at it from the distance. Being aware of this, the old daoist quietly whispered: “Do you want to say goodbye to the Matriarch?”
Li Qiye shook his head while gazing at the peak and replied: “No need, there will be another meeting eventually!” Having said that, he withdrew his gaze and left!
In the depths of the Heavenly Dao Academy, there was an ancient pine tree as majestic as a dragon. This was the first time Li Shuangyan and the others saw the Realm God. After realizing that the Realm God was only a pine tree, they couldn’t help but become astonished. An invincible existence was a mere pine tree, how could anyone believe this?
“Are you ready?” The Realm God’s old voice appeared.
Li Qiye took in a deep breath and said: “I’m ready, take me to that place!”
“I want to check the spatial walls. I’m not quite sure if I can take you to your desired location, but regardless of whether the spatial turbulence will happen or not, I can still take you to the Sacred Nether World.” The Realm God said.
Li Qiye solemnly nodded and said: “This is not an issue. Even if it is another location, I have other means of entering.”
“Begin!” The Realm God didn’t say anything else as a branch slowly reached forward. This branch had the thickness of a thumb, but its bark was like the scales of dragons; it was seemingly very tough like the spear of a god. Li Qiye waved goodbye to the group of Li Shuangyan, then he jumped on top of this branch and said with a serious tone: “Take me there!”
“Go!” The Realm God lightly shouted as the pine branch raised Li Qiye and then disappeared in the horizon in just a mere second. This pine branch from the depths of the academy stretched all the way to the firmament.
The pine branch used an unimaginable speed to take Li Qiye, who was standing on top of it, all the way out to space as it headed towards a certain location. Its speed was comparable to traveling via dao portals.
Before the branch of the Realm God, even the void and stars were quickly retreating from its path.
“The Sacred Nether World has an ominous land. Maybe that devilish thing will come into being in this generation.” During the trip, the Realm God’s voice rang by Li Qiye’s ear.
Li Qiye laughed and said: “Speaking of ominous lands, they are all over the Nine Worlds. They are only things of the ancient past; even the Mortal Emperor World has such a place, but it is simply in a dormant state.”
“Right.” The Realm God agreed with some careful thought.
“As for that devilish thing at the Sacred Nether World… I really hope that this thing will crawl out from that ghastly place. Hah, that thing has been hiding for so long that a few mysteries of the Sacred Nether World have something to do with it. As long as it climbs out, then there would be a chance to learn the answers about all of them.” Li Qiye said with a serious expression.
The Realm God did not respond to Li Qiye. This issue had something to do with a big secret of this world; it even involved an old divination from previous generations!
In the blink of an eye, the Realm God finally took Li Qiye to a certain place in space. Those who had never seen this scene before would surely be shocked.
In the depths of the endless space, a towering ancient city could be seen. However, there were no inhabitants and no sign of life as if it had been deserted for a long time.
“Stargate ah, something capable of reaching all the other worlds. Not long from now, this place will become very prosperous; a place where all the major heritages will stay together.” Li Qiye said with emotion after seeing this abandoned ancient city.
“Back then, during that day when the Black Dragon King fought against Immortal Emperor Ta Kong, they didn’t dare to stay in the Nine Worlds and had to enter space, the battlefield of the Legendary Era, but they still destroyed everything.” The Realm God continued on: “The Black Dragon King tore apart the Heaven’s Will and eventually broke the channels that connected the Nine Worlds, so the spatial walls became sealed. From that day on, the Nine Worlds were separated and cultivators could no longer travel from one world to another. Even people capable of opening the divine investiture list could not do it carelessly.” 2
Over thirty thousand years ago, the Nine Worlds were connected. As long as one had enough refined jades or was powerful enough, they could use stargates. Each world had a stargate capable of traveling to another world as long as one could pay the fee.
Unfortunately, the fight between the two great ones destroyed the paths to the Nine Worlds, so the connections were completely severed.
In fact, within the last thirty thousand years, many people tried to open the path to the other worlds. Unfortunately, since the spatial walls were closed, it was impossibly difficult.
Even if one could open a channel, the path itself would be extremely unstable. Even Virtuous Paragons would not recklessly attempt to use such a channel since the collapse of the path would result in unimaginable consequences. Even death was not out of the question.
When the Realm God took Li Qiye into space, many people were alarmed when they saw a pine branch stretching out into the sky.
“What is the Realm God doing?” After the Realm God’s heaven-shaking battle, at this moment, even a whiff of the wind from the academy would garner the focus of all others. So this sudden move from the Realm God instantly startled many old undyings within the Eastern Hundred Cities. In a short period of time, many looked up towards the horizon while the more powerful cultivators opened their heavenly gazes to look all the way out into space.
These ancestors saw a branch of the Realm God carrying Li Qiye into space, and they all became quite surprised. A heavenly gaze of an ancestor noticed their destination and murmured: “That is the place with the stargate!”
Many ancestors and legendary masters were touched by this scene. Ever since the paths that connected the Nine Worlds were destroyed, all of the lineages in this world deserted the stargate, so it became an empty city in the last thirty thousand years.
Very few people traveled to the stargate in recent years, since traveling in space necessitated a great flying treasure with a powerful master at the helm.
In the present times, there was no point in going to the stargate, so no masters were willing to waste their time doing such a thing.
Today, the Realm God suddenly carrying Li Qiye to the stargate shocked many people. An ancestor from a great sect took a deep breath and muttered: “Is this Li Qiye trying to go to another world!?”
Many shivered as they came up with such a thought. Li Qiye, at the Mortal Emperor World, was able to do as he pleased. Why did he suddenly want to go to another world?
“So bold! He wants to go to another world in the present times. He has to forcefully open the spatial wall; it is hard to imagine the consequences of failure.” Even a legendary master felt a chill in his heart.
Li Qiye’s words left the old daoist with a sad face. Then, Li Qiye looked at him and continued on: “It might seem that you look to be firm, but your heart has been wavering. If you continue on like this, when will you ever finish cultivating the Eternal Physique?”
The old face of the daoist became hot as he forced a wry smile: “Hehehe, it is only a little trip to the outside. Cultivating day after day is very boring. Taking in some fresh air will help my cultivation.”
“If that is the case, then you should take a trip to the Grand Middle Territory.” Li Qiye became serious and said: “There are a few secret realms in that region. I can tell you some of the locations, you can try to find some supreme delicacies. And since you will already be in the region, you can just stay at the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect for around ten years as a guest elder. It would not be a bad choice.”
“Hah, you want to drag me into the pit of fire!” Old Daoist Peng was not willing to do so and replied: “This would a laborious trip…” The old daoist was as cunning as a devil.
Chapter 378 - Entering The Sacred Nether World
In fact, after the paths collapsed, there were legendary masters who wanted to forcefully penetrate the spatial wall to enter another world, but alas, no one had heard of a successful attempt. Later on, even when a Divine Investiture Expert came into being to open a path, they still did not dare to enter the channel.
This type of channel was extremely unstable and could collapse at any moment. Even a more powerful existence would die under such a force.
“In the current Mortal Emperor World, I’m afraid that only the Realm God can safely go to another world.” An ancestor from a great sect had to admit this fact amidst the astonished spectators.
The reason why the Realm God had this title was because of the rumors of it being an existence that was most adept in spatial techniques. Some said that the Realm God’s achievement in spatial techniques shamed even Immortal Emperors…
In a short amount of time, countless gazes were fixated towards the sky. Of course, all of them wanted to see if the Realm God could actually take Li Qiye to another world. Then, there were those who were both celebrating and lamenting: “Nothing could be better than Li Qiye going to another world. Let a devil like him bully the geniuses of the other worlds. A monster like him staying at the Mortal Emperor World would only overshadow all the other geniuses.”
Even though this thought was a bit depressing for many people, they looked forward to Li Qiye’s departure from the Mortal Emperor World. A supreme existence like Li Qiye was a form of cruel emotional torture to all the other geniuses since he loomed over them like a huge shadow.
A monster like this going to another world to bully other people was worthy of celebration.
At the area where the stargate was situated, an ancient dao platform had been silenced for more than thirty thousand years. At this time, the Realm God used a great technique to create an extremely large dao gate that shone brightly. Anyone who stood before this dao gate would feel as if one could traverse across space and time.
“Ready?” Eventually, the Realm God asked Li Qiye with a serious tone. Even an invincible existence like the Realm God became solemn. If it was personally traveling, then it could absolutely make it to the Sacred Nether World unscathed, but at this moment, it was Li Qiye who was going.
The Yin Yang Refining Immortal Mirror appeared over Li Qiye’s head. This supreme treasure of the Middle Continent Ancient Kingdom poured an endless immortal spatial void to protect Li Qiye’s body. At the same time, the Yin Yang fishes jumped out and swam around him.
“Go, I am ready. You can lock onto the coordinates now!” Li Qiye took a deep breath and, with a serious expression, he then nodded his head towards the Realm God.
The pine branch raised Li Qiye up along with a shout from the Realm God: “Open!”
The moment this word came out, a buzzing sound could be heard. In this instant, the pine tree was like the sharpest divine spear in this world, something that could be stopped by nothing.
In just a second, the pine tree that carried Li Qiye entered the dao gate. His body was suddenly trapped in a giant crystal.
With a loud “pop,” the unstoppable pine branch pierced through this unbelievably thick crystal barricade.
It seemed like such an easy matter, but all the cultivators back at the Eastern Hundred Cities felt a powerful wave that emanated from the Heavenly Dao Academy when this blow hit. An invincible aura swept through the cities; this sudden eruption sent chills down the spines of many people.
At this moment, everyone understood that the Realm God’s blood energy had exploded in order to unleash a heaven-destroying strike.
“This blow might have penetrated the spatial wall!” A legendary master murmured after calculating the power of this attack from sensing the invincible aura that swept through the region.
With a “pop,” the pine tree punctured the crystal wall and quickly sent Li Qiye into a pathway. In this split second, Li Qiye witnessed an extremely magnificent world that was filled with life and endless vitality. Anyone would be astonished by such a scene since the landscape of an entire world was before their very eyes.
In this instant, the Realm God locked onto a certain coordinate. Then, the pathway sent Li Qiye off like a storm, using the Realm God’s utmost speed.
The endless storm within the pathway chaotically destroyed everything. The turbulence of time and space was something to be feared; even Virtuous Paragons were no exceptions. In this place, carelessness would only result in death.
However, the Realm God was indeed a divine existence. At this time, it used an unbelievable speed to send Li Qiye through the majority of the turbulence. Time itself was not a match for his speed, so spatial gaps were no longer a concern.
Li Qiye was sent to a certain chaotic sphere. It was as if this sphere had naturally formed itself and was then filled with great sects of the heaven and earth.
“Boom!” With a deafening explosion, the pine branch also penetrated this chaotic sphere. Keep in mind that this strike of the Realm God could easily kill a large group of Virtuous Paragons, but it still couldn’t pierce through this chaotic sphere.
“Open!” The Realm God crazily roared. At this second, the pine branch became extremely bright and sharp as if it could even pierce through the body of a celestial existence.
“Xhhhshh!” Primordial chaos gushed everywhere after the Realm God finally managed to pierce through this chaotic sphere. Then, it immediately threw Li Qiye inside.
“Bang!” A loud destructive sound resonated right when this chaotic sphere was pierced. Suddenly, an endless wave of emperor aura emerged. This emperor aura instantly annihilated the pathway as if an Immortal Emperor came to life.
“Immortal Emperor Fei Yang, truly amazing!” Li Qiye screamed. With one hand holding the Fragmented Realm Spatial Disk, he slammed it into the chaotic sphere. At the same time, the Yin Yang Refining Immortal Mirror also shot out an immortal light to block the power of this chaotic place!
“Buzzz—” The Yin Yang fishes jumped up and carried Li Qiye as they soared towards the chaos. But during Li Qiye’s advance, the vast emperor aura crazily erupted once again as if it wanted to crush him. At this critical juncture, the Fragmented Realm Spatial Disk spewed out a brilliance and immediately sucked Li Qiye inside.
“Rumble!” The emperor aura failed to crush Li Qiye, resulting in the pathway getting ravaged from the enraged emperor aura. At this time, the Realm God used an unbelievable speed to retreat as the emperor aura wildly pursued it.
“Boom!” In the end, under the devastation of the emperor aura, the entire pathway collapsed. At the most critical moment, the pine branch of the Realm God managed to escape to the outside.
The collapse of the pathway emitted a terrifying power that alarmed even the legendary masters within the Eastern Hundred Cities. Many looked up to the sky and saw the retreating pine branch. An ancestor with keen eyes noticed that there were burn marks on the pine branch, and this astounded many people.
“Did the pathway actually collapse?” Seeing the burns on the pine branch, an ancestor took in a deep breath and murmured: “Where did Li Qiye want to go? Even a pathway opened by the Realm God was destroyed. Just what kind of powerful suppressive force was present at his destination?”
“This is terrible.” The hearts of many legendary masters sank when they saw the wounds on the branch of the Realm God. Even a pathway created by it was destroyed…
The Difficult Dao Era was over, and a new Heaven’s Will was being created to signal the start of a new grand era. Many hidden existences had begun to take action; some even planned to go to different worlds, but after seeing the Realm God’s situation, they quickly dispelled this thought. Despite it personally escorting Li Qiye, the pathway was still destroyed. If it was them who met such an event instead, death would be assured.
The group of Li Shuangyan was shocked to see the wounds on the pine branch back at the academy. They all felt that something terrible had happened.
“He is fine and had arrived safely.” The Realm God spoke. The group of Li Shuangyan finally felt relieved to know that Li Qiye had made it safely. They then bowed to the Realm God before they left.
The Realm God then stared at the horizon and, after a long silence, it finally lamented with a sigh and uttered: “It really is that legendary existence, the most mysterious existence. Tens of millions of long years… This generation will be constantly troubled with restless times. It is truly a pitiable fate for those who live in the same era as him. Who in this world could possibly compete for the Heaven’s Will against him!?”
Eventually, the Realm God no longer spoke and quietly went into a deep slumber.
However, on the second day after Li Qiye’s departure, many pieces of news began to leak.
“Have you heard? People said that Li Qiye wanted to go to another world and, in the end, the pathway collapsed and he died in there.” A person said while acting mysteriously. Despite his attempt at being secretive, there was still a hint of gloating and delight.
Many people naturally became elated after they learned of Li Qiye’s death. A disciple from a great power sneered: “Someone who commits many bad deeds will naturally be punished one day, and that day had finally come.”
“That’s right, the heavens is not blind. It will not forgive anyone!” A personally cheerfully laughed. To people like them, this was the best pieces of news they heard this year.
But there were also those who pitied him. A great character from the previous generation lamented: “Why did he have to seek his own death? He would be alive and kicking if he stayed in the Mortal Emperor World. Why the need to do this!”
“Li Qiye’s might would allow him to tread on the path of the heavens with no problem ah. It could even be said that he had a great chance to reach the Heaven’s Will. But now… he already buried himself before becoming invincible.” A cultivator couldn’t help but say.
“The path of the heavens is arduous, so it is better to be careful. No matter how stunning a genius may be, they could still die an early death on this path.” Someone finally ended with these words.
Tonight’s teaser is from Nahct! Immortal Emperor Bao is busy pumping out Spirit Vessel chapters so I’ve taken over, bwahaha.
There is no going back…
Chapter 379 - Soaring Remembrance Village
The Sacred Nether World and the Mortal Emperor World are two of the Nine Worlds. If the Mortal Emperor World was the ancestral home of the human race, then the Sacred Nether World was the origin of the ghost race.
In fact, whether or not humans originated from the Mortal Emperor World was still up for debate, but since the beginning of the Desolate Era, humans had been at that world and began their explorations. After countless efforts of many sages, they finally took root in that world as the strongest race.
Today, whether or not the Mortal Emperor World was the origin of the human race no longer mattered to its inhabitants. The only pertinent matter was that it had become the ancestral ground for human generations from that point forth.
However, the Sacred Nether World was different, since its ghostly inhabitants were certain that this place was their origin. Of course, certain ghost tribes called this world the Ghost Immortal World because they preferred to call themselves Ghost Immortals, but outsiders kept on calling them the ghost race!
Since this world was the origin of the ghost race, perhaps people would think of it as a place infested with nether energy. However, the reality was that this was completely false. The Sacred Nether World was a place with beautiful scenery, just like the Mortal Emperor World. There were was an endless amount of mountains and rivers worth exploring.
Even the members of the ghost tribes didn’t all have nether energy. In fact, there were many different ghost races with unique characteristics, but outsiders all generalized them together as a unified ghost race to distinguish them with the human race, the blood race, and others.
Only a handful of tribes had a relatively thicker nether aura while others were not that different from ordinary humans. Then, there were also some who had physical bodies and were not actually ghosts. The majority of the ghost tribes were just like humans — their future generations were comprised of their offspring.
The two worlds were similar in that they were extremely vast. There were four domains at the Sacred Nether World; to the east was the Nether Border, the south was the Distant Cloud, the west was the Green River, and the north was the Misty Field. These four locations were called the four desolaces. 1
Even though the ghost race’s origin was located at the Sacred Nether World, they were not unified in this place. This was just like the Mortal Emperor World, where humans were the majority while there were still other races.
It was the same for the Sacred Nether World. The ghost race was the majority, but other races also lived here, such as humans, demons, the blood race, and stone golems…
However, the Nether Border, the Green River, and the Misty Field were the places where ghosts gathered. The few forces from the other races were very weak at these three desolaces.
However, it was different at the Distant Cloud. Humans, demons, stone golems, and others were extremely powerful in this desolace so the ghost race could not rule over this part of the world.
As one of the four desolaces, the Distant Cloud was quite immense with countless inhabitants of varying races living together. It was also filled with numerous cultivators and lineages like carps in rivers.
Weaker sects were too abundant to count, and great powers were also everything in this domain.
However, one must talk about a certain lineage at the Distant Cloud, and it was the Thousand Carp River. It was not a river, it was a sect that ruled over a very powerful country that spanned for tens of millions of miles.
At this place, the Thousand Carp River was absolutely a great and terrifying lineage. It was created by Immortal Emperor Qian Li and had stood strong since its inception. 2 Even in a location where the ghost race reigned supreme, it was still difficult for someone to shake an existence like the Thousand Carp River.
The Thousand Carp River followed the demonic dao because legends state that its progenitor, Immortal Emperor Qian Li, was a demon that was successful in the path of cultivation. Despite this belief, the emperor had always been a mystery, even during their own era.
Some believed that the emperor was a carp, others thought that the emperor was a dragonfish… Some even believed that the emperor was a fish capable of jumping over the dragon gate to finally become an Immortal Emperor.
All in all, there were a variety of theories about Immortal Emperor Qian Li. But of course, they were limited to mere rumors and legends, because the emperor was one of the most mysterious Immortal Emperors even during their own generation. No one knew of the emperor’s origin, home, or even if the emperor was male or female! 3
After tens of millions of years, many people tried to solve this elusive mystery, but the most important one was whether the emperor was male or female!
Even the answer to the simplest question of the emperor’s sex remained unknown. It was as if Immortal Emperor Qian Li was shrouded in mist and was incapable of being seen by other worldly inhabitants. The emperor disappeared in the river of time along with all of their secrets.
Perhaps only the emperor knew the answers to all of these questions, and only the emperor knew their true sex!
No matter what, despite being shrouded in a myriad of mysteries, one thing was for certain, and this was that the emperor cultivated the demonic dao before finally becoming an Immortal Emperor. As for what kind of demon they were, the descendants could only guess.
The Soaring Remembrance Village, also known as the Soaring Remembrance Manor, was a quiet place. It was neither big nor small and had several hundred villagers. However, many great characters came from this village. Some had great fame and some were generals in the mortal world. Some were even cultivational immortals in the eyes of ordinary people. Even amongst these cultivators, some turned out to be amazing characters.
However, no matter how many great characters came from this village, it remained itself without changing as an eternally tranquil village. The appearance of these characters failed to break the peace of this small village.
Just like the Eternal River School, no matter who came and went, they could not affect the Soaring Remembrance Village. This was a good place for those who sought for peace and quiet, a place just like the Garden of the Peaches of Immortality. 4
It was as if there was an invisible force protecting this village, a force that didn’t allow anyone to disturb its peace.
This small village presided within the Thousand Carp River with its particularly ordinary appearance.
However, the old village head’s home had been very rowdy because a haunting phenomenon had been occurring inside his house. At the Sacred Nether World, the domain of the ghost race, it would be silly to make a fuss about ghosts.
In this world, not to mention cultivators, even ordinary mortals didn’t believe that there were ghosts in this world. If there were actually supernatural ghosts, and if they were just like the ghost race, then they were not that much different compared to humans, so mortals would never be afraid of such a thing.
However, strange things had been happening in backyard of the old village head. A ghastly shadow would drift back and forth regularly regardless of whether it was night or day. The ones who were more timid were easily scared out of their mind at such a sight.
It seemed that a young ghost was haunting the old village head’s backyard, but their group couldn’t describe its exact figure. In summary, it was a young shadow, but this shadow had no true substance. It flew like an ethereal existence in the backyard of the old village head.
This haunting ghost was quite a sight for the husband and wife pair. They had lived for very long so, to them, humans and ghosts were the same, but this actually made their house become more lively. At the very least, the villagers would visit their house to look at this ghost.
Nevertheless, the other villagers still tried to convince the couple to perform a passing rite for this ghost. Regarding such advice, the old village elder said with a smile: “This ghost is just wandering in our backyard and isn’t committing any bad deeds. One day, it will naturally become bored and leave.”
“Old Man Yang, this isn’t the case. Who truly understands these ghosts? Maybe one day, it will hurt someone, what are we going to do then?” A person in the village tried to persuade him with good intentions.
“Oh right, isn’t your little girl studying at the Thousand Carp River? Why not have her come back and take a look. With her skills, giving a little ghost a peaceful passing shouldn’t be difficult.” Another villager came up with an idea.
At last, the old village head couldn’t handle all the counsel from the villagers, so he could only go to the Great Wisdom Temple right outside of the village to invite the temple’s presiding abbot, Monk Dazhi. 5
According to the villagers, Monk Dazhi was a monk with boundless buddhist wisdom, but one would be gravely mistaken if they were to imagine him as a monk with long eyebrows and a white beard.
He was a very young monk — only around the age of twenty. His head was smooth and reflective and had two crooked rows of three ordainment markings. Seeing just how crooked they were left people wondering whether his markings were real or not.
Monk Dazhi’s eyes were very bright, and he always had a smile on his face. When standing before the public, this smile appeared to be kind and compassionate, but when no one was paying attention, the smile became a bit villainous. It would give others the impression that he was a thief!
Chapter 380 - The Village’s Secret
A series of large round buddhist beads hung around Monk Dazhi’s neck. If he didn’t look like an accomplished monk before, then just by wearing these beads, others would be convinced that he was one.
Buddhist lights flashed inside these beads as if there was a Buddha inside each of them, sitting in a solemn pose. Sometimes, loud chants could be heard.
Whether he was an accomplished monk or not, these buddhist beads alone commanded respect from others.
Monk Dazhi was the abbot of the Great Wisdom Temple, but the reality was that he was the only one that was part of this temple. The abbot was him, the monk was him, and the servant was him as well. 1
Although the temple was built right outside of the village, Monk Dazhi was not from this part of the world. Rumor has it that Monk Dazhi came from the northern Misty Field, undergoing a harsh pilgrimage all the way to the village. In the end, he said that this village had a fateful connection with him, so he immediately built the Great Wisdom Temple right outside and became its abbot and sole monk.
It was said that his dharma was unlimited. A villager once saw him subdue a white tiger that was turned into his mount.
After the village head invited Monk Dazhi to the backyard, he said: “Wise Monk, this is the spot. The shadow would sometimes appear here at random times; sometimes during the day and sometimes at night.”
After hearing the village head’s story, Monk Dazhi used his fingers to calculate. Then, he placed his palms together while giving the appearance of a high monk: “Amitabha, oh merciful Buddha. Benefactor, this monk has calculated something with regards to this ghost for you. It is a hungry ghost. This hungry ghost died from starvation. How about this, Benefactor should host a great feast so that this monk can lead it out to see if I can help it move on.”
Having heard this, the old village head did not prolong the conversation and went with his wife to prepare a feast. They immediately prepared it at the backyard.
“Amitabha, merciful Buddha!” After seeing this large feast laid out in front of him, he placed his palms together again and started to speak: “Benefactor, a hungry ghost is not easy to deal with. When I lead him out and perform my ceremony, I hope that there will not be another person present, lest the ghost attack. It is not good if someone else becomes wounded!” With this, he took out a ceremonial sword while chanting incantations as if he wanted to communicate with the ghost.
“Then I will leave everything to Wise Monk!” The old village head quickly left with his wife after listening to the monk.
After the couple left, Monk Dazhi put away his ceremonial sword and quickly rubbed his palms together. After seeing that no one else was around, he cheerfully laughed: “Amitabha, amitabha, the Buddhist path is merciful, meat and wine are poison, but this monk had always been aiming for the Buddhist path with only love in my heart. I will temporarily take all of the poison in the ghost’s stead!” With this, he rolled up his sleeves and grabbed a big fat duck to take a big bite.
Not too long after, the feast on the table was completely devoured by Monk Dazhi. His mouth was covered with grease so any resemblance of a high monk quickly disappeared.
However, the village head’s backyard becoming “haunted” was not due to a ghost, it was because of Li Qiye. He was in a heavenly grotto trying to refine the primordial chaos that wanted to break out from the inside. Because of this, others were able to see a floating image of a ghost as the primordial chaos was about to escape outside.
Li Qiye chose this place as his stopping point for a reason; there was a secret at this location. The Soaring Remembrance Village had an amazing heavenly grotto; it was an independent space — an absolute domain.
This place was related to a particular secret that had something to do with Immortal Emperor Fei Yang during the Desolate Era.
Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was one of the oldest Immortal Emperors of the human race. Coming from the Nantian Clan of the Grand Middle Territory, he achieved his dao during the Desolate Era. But despite this, he had never acknowledged that he was one of its disciples.
What was even more interesting was that after he left the clan, he never returned even after he became an Immortal Emperor.
The Nantian Clan’s attitude was also very strange. During the emperor’s generation and many long ones after it, they never announced that Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was one of the clan’s disciples to outsiders.
It was not until much later that they dared to tell others that the emperor was their disciple and their pride.
Nevertheless, the clan did not receive any inheritance from the emperor, and his lineage did not go back to the Nantian Clan.
The matter between the emperor and the Nantian Clan, along with some of the emperor’s later tales, became unknown riddles.
However, even though outsiders were ignorant, Li Qiye was not. He also knew some secrets about Immortal Emperor Fei Yang.
Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was just like his title — an unbridled and free individual. 2 During his youth, he did many controversial things that became hot topics of discussion in future generations, including stealing and swindling.
Rumor has it that the young Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s mouth could even spew out lotus flowers capable of changing black to white and amazing rhetorics. Even the stone buddha from the Buddhist Funeral Plateau was swindled by him, so one could easily imagine his articulate speech. 3
Moreover, his luck with women was also great. Before becoming an Immortal Emperor, countless women’s hearts swayed because of him; among them, there was no shortage of princesses, saintesses, fairies, and even those with great backgrounds, including descendants from Immortal Emperor lineages.
But despite having many women throughout his life, the strange part was that he did not marry anyone throughout his life even after becoming an Immortal Emperor.
Since time immemorial, there were not that many emperors who didn’t have descendants, and Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was one of them. He was the type who had a lot of women but did not marry.
A person who loves too much would end up being loveless. This issue was the source of a lot of turmoil and gossip for future generations. 4
Soon after becoming an emperor, a certain matter occurred unbeknownst to the rest of the world. Among his women, there were many with supreme intelligence, and one of them used an unimaginable method to steal the seed of Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. After bearing his child, this woman did not ask for an official title from the emperor and instead disappeared from this world. From that point forth, no one saw her again.
This peerlessly intelligent woman was very much in love with Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. She bore his child not to become the empress nor his wife. She quickly left the emperor and went into hiding in order to raise his child to continue his bloodline.
This woman disappeared for many years in this world. No one knew that she was living in seclusion in the mortal world and had turned into an ordinary mortal.
Eventually, this woman passed away. Her offspring with Immortal Emperor Fei Yang also did not become a cultivator, but rather thrived as a mortal.
The village built by her was named the Soaring Remembrance Village. Its name signified her memories and longing for Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. However, this old tale did not just end here. Very few things in this world could escape the gaze of an Immortal Emperor, and this also applied to Immortal Emperor Fei Yang.
He knew about this matter and also knew where this woman was living, but he chose to do nothing.
It was not until much later, after the lady had passed away and his descendants — as mortals — had prospered at the village for generations that he acted. It could have been because this woman’s persistent love for him moved him, it could also be that the descendants carried his bloodline… Regardless of the reason, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang laid out a supreme spell at the village.
An Immortal Emperor exerted countless efforts to perform a spell at this location and left behind many things. This supreme spell remained active for millions of years at this location and had always been quietly protecting this village.
Because of this, the village had produced many geniuses. Many great characters came to visit the village as well.
However, despite all of this, they were all just fleeting passengers to the village. No matter who came and went, nothing could break the tranquility of the village under the spell’s protection; nothing could stop the village from being a paradise in this world.
Tens of millions of years went by again. Generation after generation in the village, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s descendants had multiplied, but the village remained peaceful and unknown.
This whole thing was odd because, despite the supreme spell and the presence of many treasures, the emperor did not pass on any cultivation methods to his descendants.
Later on, the village did produce some cultivators, and some great ones at that. However, they did not come from Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s dao lineage. Instead, they were recruited by other great powers from the outside world, and they had no relationship with the emperor.
An eternity had passed, perhaps no one else knew the secret of the Soaring Remembrance Village. Even those who knew of this secret during the emperor’s generation were no longer of this world.
However, Li Qiye was one of those who knew this secret, and he was also someone who had survived to the present era!
A series of large round buddhist beads hung around Monk Dazhi’s neck. If he didn’t look like an accomplished monk before, then just by wearing these beads, others would be convinced that he was one.
Buddhist lights flashed inside these beads as if there was a Buddha inside each of them, sitting in a solemn pose. Sometimes, loud chants could be heard.
Whether he was an accomplished monk or not, these buddhist beads alone commanded respect from others.
Monk Dazhi was the abbot of the Great Wisdom Temple, but the reality was that he was the only one that was part of this temple. The abbot was him, the monk was him, and the servant was him as well.
Chapter 381 - Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s Inheritance
The place that Li Qiye occupied was a self-contained space, and it was tightly linked together with the Soaring Remembrance Village. If the village was one side of a coin, then this space that contained Li Qiye was the other; the two of them were one and the same.
Li Qiye visited this place for a very specific reason; it was created by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang, and the emperor had left a lot of things behind.
That year, that woman gave birth to Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s offspring in a secluded part of the mortal world, then the village was created from this. From then on, his future descendants lived on in prosperity, but they didn’t know that their ancestor was the famed Immortal Emperor Fei Yang of the Desolate Era.
A powerful spell was created by the emperor to protect his descendants, and it encompassed the entire village. However, the origin of this spell was on the other face of the village, the spatial realm.
Because of this, many people came to the village throughout many eras, but they couldn’t understand the true profoundness of the village.
This spatial realm was a chaotic place that was unable to be clearly discerned by anyone. There were ancient temples, jade pavilions, and jeweled palaces amidst the chaos as if this location was hiding countless secrets.
Li Qiye sat upright at this location with the Fragmented Spatial Disk in front of him while the Yin Yang Refining Immortal Mirror poured down an endless amount of immortal radiance as the Yin Yang fishes protected him.
At this time, the disk in front of Li Qiye became an illuminating mirror, but the reflection was not Li Qiye. Instead, it showed many strange runes. Under the control of Li Qiye’s will, these runes intertwined together to form universal laws; he wanted to create a sacred chapter.
This was the reason for Li Qiye’s visit to this place. This was an ancient technique from the Legendary Era that was obtained by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang before his ascension.
This technique was named Resplendent Break, the emperor’s technique that paved the way towards his imperial domination. It was an amazing secret technique!
Immortal Emperor Fei Yang traveled to the corners of the world without a fixed abode. Although he became an emperor, no one had heard of a lineage left behind by him. Even though his tales were memorized by members of the future generations, there were many things that were related to him that were unknown to the rest of the world.
For example, why didn’t the emperor want to return to the Nantian Clan? Why didn’t the emperor pass down his imperial lineage? And where were his emperor weapons?
As the Dark Crow, Li Qiye had researched for a very long time regarding the emperor’s deeds. In the end, he was certain that the emperor left many things behind at the spatial realm of the Soaring Remembrance Village.
Inside this space was a grand creation that was left behind by an Immortal Emperor that used his invincible means. Outsiders essentially could not come in; otherwise, others would have already exposed this secret.
After Li Qiye entered, even the Realm God’s pine branch was thrown outside. If Li Qiye didn’t have the Fragmented Spatial Disk, then he wouldn’t have been able to enter either.
This disk had a lot to do with the emperor. The world believed that this treasure was refined by the emperor using the Space Scripture’s mantra.
However, Li Qiye knew for a fact that this disk was not created by the emperor, but it definitely had something to do with the Space Scripture.
As one of the strongest Immortal Emperors, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang left behind many of his secrets behind a frightening barrier.
In order to get here, Li Qiye used an amazing scheme. As he was entering the Sacred Nether World from the Mortal Emperor World, just before he reached the Sacred Nether World, he jumped directly into the chaotic space that the emperor created. Of course, this was with the help of the Fragmented Spatial Disk. Otherwise, he would not have even been able to make it from the worldly pathway.
Despite the numerous secrets and treasures, Li Qiye only wanted one secret technique instead of being too greedy.
Under the absolute suppression of an emperor, Li Qiye still had methods to take the other treasures from this chaotic space. However, he chose not to do so and only wanted the Resplendent Break that was left behind at this place.
Li Qiye’s location inside this chaotic space was coincidentally the village head’s backyard. At this time, Li Qiye could only use the mirror and the disk to stay at this place since he could not harmonize with it. Because of this, his image would sometimes faintly appear in the backyard.
This was the famed ghost that haunted at the village head’s place. Inside this chaotic space, Li Qiye and the backyard was only separated by a thin wall, so he could clearly see what was happening in the village head’s backyard.
He noticed Monk Dazhi using the excuse of exorcising the ghost to eat, and he couldn’t help but become amused.
Nonetheless, Li Qiye was too lazy to care about this trickster of a monk eating and drinking. He looked at the mirror-like disk and repeatedly calculated the runes inside in order to turn it into a law that would eventually become a complete immortal chapter.
In reality, a long time ago, Li Qiye already had the Resplendent Break. But at that time, it was only an incomplete version with many defects. In spite of this, he still chose to spend a long time to research this particular move.
Today, within this chaotic space, Li Qiye used the mirror to find the runes that were left behind by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang. Although the emperor purposely mystified the order of the runes, Li Qiye could still manipulate their countless transformations into the complete Resplendent Break. Of course, it was not an easy task to come up with a perfected version of an ancient and mystical technique like this without taking a long time.
While Li Qiye was preoccupied in the chaotic space, Monk Dazhi was putting on a show and created quite a commotion. Sometimes, there were ghastly yells and howls that eventually culminated into the sounds of a battle…
This scene actually caused those who were outside to think that something was happening. The husband and wife truly thought that the monk was fighting against a ferocious ghost.
It was not until the next day did the village head enter his own backyard. He no longer saw any more shadows since Li Qiye was coincidentally being blocked by the chaos right at this time. This caused the backyard to seem fine as it was without the intrusion of any ghosts. Once the old man saw the remaining scraps of the feasts, he couldn’t help but suck on his teeth in surprise. Was it really a hungry ghost messing around?
“Amitabha, oh merciful Buddha!” After seeing the old village head, Monk Dazhi — once again — became a dignified monk. Who could possibly connect his current appearance to that of him eating like a storm from earlier? If anything, he was the real hungry ghost!
The monk placed his hands together once more and spoke in an upright manner: “Do not worry, Benefactor. The hungry ghost was finally driven away by me. It won’t come back again!”
“Thank the heavens, Sir Monk is truly great. I didn’t expect you to chase the hungry ghost away so easily!” The village head happily exclaimed.
Inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye didn’t know whether to laugh or cry when he witnessed this scene. He watched Monk Dazhi pretending to be a wise sage and chuckled with the intention of destroying the monk’s play. At this time, he reached forward with his hand. In the blink of an eye, a gigantic hand came out from the chaotic space as a powerful breeze blew by.
At this time, a dust storm swept through the backyard as a ghastly gigantic hand faintly appeared as if it wanted to capture humans.
“The hungry ghost is here again!” Seeing this scene, the old village head was completely startled.
“Sinful creature, you dare!?” Monk Dazhi shouted as the buddhist beads around his neck flew forward. In an instant, these beads enlarged to the size of mountains, blocking the sky in order to stop Li Qiye’s hand.
Inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye was taken by surprise at the sight of the mountainous buddhist beads. This treasure was indeed unfathomable, but Li Qiye simply wanted to tease him a bit and didn’t actually unleash a move. He smiled and quickly withdrew his hand.
After Li Qiye canceled his maneuver, the backyard became peaceful again. The village head frightenedly exclaimed with some amazement: “Sir Monk is so formidable, you can scare the hungry ghost away so fast!”
Monk Dazhi placed his palms together again without any sign of arrogance. There was only the countenance of an accomplished sage as he said: “Amitabha, oh merciful Buddha. This hungry ghost is indeed fierce. I shall stay behind for several days to fight against this evil spirit. This time, it successfully escaped and I believe it won’t come back anytime soon. Could Benefactor prepare another feast so that I can lead it here again?”
The village head did not question this request at all and immediately went to prepare another feast. As for Li Qiye, he was dumbfounded and couldn’t help but shake his head.
Not too many things in this world could escape Li Qiye’s sight. In his opinion, although Monk Dazhi appeared to be a swindler, he actually had real abilities. And yet, he still chose to run around in the mortal world to play pretend as a trickster for food!
Several days passed, and the monk continued to stay behind in the backyard of the village head. The rowdy sounds of battle continued on, causing the couple to be frightened out of their minds since they really thought that the monk was fighting against the hungry ghost inside.
How could the ones outside possibly know that Monk Dazhi was only hiding there, spending all of his energy stuffing his greasy face? Where was the respectable appearance of a high monk? This was only a monk that was completely enamored with meat and wine!
The place that Li Qiye occupied was a self-contained space, and it was tightly linked together to the Soaring Remembrance Village. If the village was one side of a coin, then this space that contained Li Qiye was the other side; the two of them were one and the same.
Li Qiye visited this place for a very specific reason; it was created by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang, and the emperor had left a lot of things behind.
That year, that woman gave birth to Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s offspring in a secluded part of the mortal world, then the village was created from this. From then on, his future descendants lived on in prosperity, but they didn’t know that their ancestor was the famed Immortal Emperor Fei Yang of the Desolate Era.
Chapter 382 - Ghost-expelling Monk
The battle sounds were created by Monk Dazhi’s illusion spell so that those who were outside would think that he was fighting against the hungry ghost!
For the next few days, Monk Dazhi stayed in the backyard only to eat and drink. Meanwhile, inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye was about to finish deriving the Resplendent Break. Eventually, he managed to obtain the full version of the attack. He then couldn’t help but take another look at this chaotic space as he murmured: “The suppression of an Immortal Emperor True Treasure is indeed amazing!”
He didn’t continue to stay in this space and used the Fragmented Spatial Disk to open an entrance to instantly go outside to the backyard.
At this time, many luminous stars were hanging amidst the skylight above the quiet, small village. The gentle breeze from the mountains caused the villagers to take deep breaths on their strolls.
In the meantime, Monk Dazhi seemed unable to ever be satiated. Even after all the meals, it was as if he was the reincarnation of a hungry ghost.
“Are you here to chase away a ghost, or are you here to eat and drink?” Li Qiye slowly said while standing right behind Monk Dazhi.
Right now, they were in the middle of the night. If someone suddenly appeared behind one’s back, they would have been scared to death. However, that would only be the case if it was someone else; Monk Dazhi was not startled at all. His two hands held onto a fat pig’s leg as he crazily devoured it with his greasy mouth. He saw Li Qiye and cheerfully smiled: “Fellow Daoist, sit down and have a taste. Old Lin is really skillful.”
“So you are just a thief.” Li Qiye smiled and sat down as he gazed at the monk before continuing: “You came here to chase away a ghost, but are you not afraid that a hungry ghost will possess you while you are acting like this?”
These words only induced a smile on the monk’s face as he cheerfully replied: “These words might scare people somewhere else, but this is the Sacred Nether World. There are more ghosts running around on the surface than there are in hell. Even if there were ghosts here, it wouldn’t scare anyone.”
Li Qiye smiled as the monk told him to sit down and eat. However, despite his courteous proposal, he didn’t wait for Li Qiye as he instantly consumed a roasted chicken and a big fish just like a hungry ghost.
Compared to Monk Dazhi’s table manners, Li Qiye was countless times more refined since he was only trying out a few things.
“Hehe, which treasures did Fellow Daoist manage to grab in there?” The monk asked with a grin while eating.
Li Qiye gave him a look and asked: “Oh? Are you also here because of the Soaring Remembrance Village?”
Monk Dazhi put his palms together and laughed: “Amitabha, this village contains treasures — this is not a big secret at all. Many people in the past came here, but no one could pinpoint the treasures. There is a great spell here so all the people who arrive do not dare to act presumptuously. Even Virtuous Paragons would die a pitiful death here!”
Li Qiye only chuckled and didn’t say anything else. It was just as the monk said, the protection of the village was crafted by Immortal Emperor Fei Yang’s supreme grand dao, so even a Virtuous Paragon would suffer a miserable end if they messed around here.
“This monk travels around the four oceans. My current trip took me to the Soaring Remembrance Village. I noticed that there was a great creation here, but unfortunately, I could not see through this place.” Monk Dazhi cheerfully explained.
Li Qiye smiled and shook his head with an answer: “It is all meaningless even if you could see through it. This place is reserved for the fateful ones; those who weren’t meant for it will never be able to obtain the great creations in this place. If one wished to seize them by force, then that would be the beginning of their demise!”
“Amitabha, amitabha.” Although he was reciting buddhist chants, the food never stopped going into his mouth.
On the second day’s sunrise, the village head quickly came to the backyard and was surprised to see another person.
“Amitabha, merciful Buddha!” Monk Dazhi chanted, then he explained to the village head: “Don’t be alarmed, Benefactor. This person is a friend I’ve invited. Luckily, with his great skills and our combined efforts, we were finally able to slay the hungry ghost last night. Benefactor can finally be at ease, there will be no more ghastly things intruding your residence now that the hungry ghost is gone.”
After hearing the explanation, the village head took a sigh of relief and quickly praised: “Sir Immortals have amazing magics. To be able to vanquish the hungry ghost… Amazing, simply amazing!”
Seeing the monk acting again, Li Qiye was at a loss, but he didn’t expose the monk’s trickery. Despite him running here for free meals, he was without malicious intentions. With his abilities, he didn’t need to swindle in order to eat in front of mortals like this.
Even though the hungry ghost had been eradicated, the village head and his wife still tried to keep the monk and Li Qiye around. The monk agreed to stay at the village for several days, and Li Qiye also stayed behind since he wished to check out the village a bit longer.
Many villagers visited them after hearing about how Monk Dazhi eradicated the hungry ghost. In a short period of time, Li Qiye and the monk were like monkeys at the circus; they were constantly being pointed at by all the enthusiastic and curious villagers.
A powerful cultivator disguised as a swindler — this left Li Qiye with an unexplainable feeling while Monk Dazhi very much enjoyed this situation. His interactions with the villagers were very natural and free, just like a real revered monk, to the unsuspecting crowd.
Li Qiye and Monk Dazhi stayed behind at the village head’s house while the couple treated them with unparalleled hospitality.
They were especially enthusiastic about Li Qiye. Sometimes, they would even ask him: “Where is your immortal grotto located? Do you have your marriage planned out yet?”
Li Qiye felt a bit strange in the face of these questions while Monk Dazhi, who was standing to the side, cheerfully replied: “Since Benefactors are asking so many questions, could it be that you want to betroth your daughter to my fellow daoist friend?”
The village head smiled and then shook his head: “We aren’t in charge of that little girl’s matters. However, if Immortal is interested, you two can get to know each other first.”
Monk Dazhi laughed and said: “Amitabha, Benefactor’s idea is actually not bad. Your daughter is as pretty as a fairy, my friend will definitely like her after they meet.”
Li Qiye didn’t know whether to laugh or cry after hearing the monk speak. He only shook his head and politely smiled without saying anything. He then left the house and took a stroll outside.
Right after Monk Dazhi courteously said goodbye to the village head with a smile, he then chased after Li Qiye and spoke: “You don’t know how many people want to marry the village head’s daughter.”
“If you keep sticking your tongue out, do you think I won’t pull it out?” Li Qiye looked at him with one eye and lightly said.
Monk Dazhi immediately shut up and chanted: “Amitabha, how sinful. I just won’t speak then!”
The Soaring Remembrance Village was neither overly large nor small. It had many great characters coming and going, including cultivators, but none of them managed to leave their personal marks on this village.
The unwitting would find this quite strange, but those who were keener and knew the secrets would not find it strange at all. Who could actually withstand the protecting will of an Immortal Emperor? The paradisiacal village had small bridges and flowing water, natural mountains and verdant forests; the entire village was immersed in tranquility.
Li Qiye and Monk Dazhi did a circle around the village. In fact, it was not Li Qiye’s first time here since he had visited a long time ago as the Dark Crow.
After so many long years and countless generations, despite people coming and going, the beautiful scenery remained due to the protection of the emperor!
“Truly a wonderful spell!” Walking inside the village, Monk Dazhi was also looking at the situation of this place and couldn’t help but praise with admiration: “What kind of heaven-defying being would be able to break the tranquility of this place?”
Li Qiye simply smiled without adding to the conversation. Of course an Immortal Emperor’s means were marvelous. He had once gone against the heavens and calculated a taboo matter. Perhaps, Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was buried in this ordinary village.
Of course, this was only a possibility and its authenticity was hard to prove. Throughout the ages, many Immortal Emperors left behind lineages and continued their bloodlines, but no one heard of an Immortal Emperor burying themselves in this world! 1
So whether Immortal Emperor Fei Yang was buried at the village or not was a mystery. Unless someone was able to release the emperor’s powerful seal, none would be able to find the answer.
In fact, the path of all the previous Immortal Emperors had been a riddle. Many believed that even Immortal Emperors were not true immortals and that they could not stay in this world forever. One day, they would have to meet their impending doom.
Despite this belief, the burials of Immortal Emperors were mysteries as well.
There had been Immortal Emperor lineages who swore to the world that their progenitors were buried in their ancestral lands, but even now, not everyone believed this.
The battle sounds were created by Monk Dazhi’s illusion spell so that those who were outside would think that he was fighting against the hungry ghost!
For the next few days, Monk Dazhi stayed in the backyard only to eat and drink. Meanwhile, inside the chaotic space, Li Qiye was about to finish deriving the Resplendent Break. Eventually, he managed to obtain the full version of the attack. He then couldn’t help but take another look at this chaotic space as he murmured: “The suppression of an Immortal Emperor True Treasure is indeed amazing!”
He didn’t continue to stay in this space and used the Fragmented Spatial Disk to open an entrance to instantly go outside to the backyard.
Chapter 383 - Dream Wishing Tree
Li Qiye and the monk inadvertently walked to the entrance of the village during their stroll. There was an old tree that was basked in countless streaks of moonlight. It required several people to hug the tree completely as its branches emanated outward like one big umbrella.
Because this tree had existed for so many years, a lot of moss was growing on its trunk.
Although it appeared to be very ordinary, even Li Qiye couldn’t help but to emotionally sigh as he looked at it: “Dream Wishing Tree, a rare sight in this world ah!”
“Only an Immortal Emperor would be able to do such a thing!” Monk Dazhi also muttered: “Such a small village having a great divine tree protector at its entrance — how grand is this sight!? With this Dream Wishing Tree protecting it, even Virtuous Paragons have to behave well when they come here!”
Li Qiye had nothing to say as he stared at this divine tree. Even though it was only an ordinary village in the mortal world, it had the secret backing of an Immortal Emperor. Not to mention, it was something never used before. Wasting the resources of an Immortal Emperor on a regular village might have never been done before in this world!
While the two of them were standing underneath the tree, the village head came by and saw them. He quickly greeted them, then stood in front of the tree and put his palms together as if he was praying.
After he whispered a prayer, he then prostrated before the tree.
“Legends state that a Dream Wishing Tree could grant the wishes of other people, could it be that Benefactor is also wishing on a dream before the tree?” Monk Dazhi said with a smile after the village head stood up.
The village head shook his head and replied: “No, I am praying for my little girl. Back then, she stood here and made a vow, so I come here every day to pray for her!”
“Your little girl made a vow?” Monk Dazhi exclaimed in astonishment: “This can’t be… Your girl is quite surprising!”
The village head wryly smiled and said: “This is all because us old people have been pressuring her nonstop. She is not young anymore, so my wife and I had been hoping that she could find a suitable husband to pass down our lineage. However, this girl would not listen. After all of us constantly tried to convince her, she undertook a vow beneath the Dream Wishing Tree; that is, if the tree picked a suitable husband for her, then she would marry right away. But if not, then she would remain single!”
Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile after hearing this. The Dream Wishing Tree was indeed rumored to have wish-granting abilities, but this Dream Wishing Tree in front of them had formed its own consciousness and was not just a regular Dreaming Wishing Tree! It seems that the little girl had been pressured too much by her parents, so she had to make a vow in front of the tree!
“Crash!” An item from the Dream Wishing Tree fell down and suddenly hit Li Qiye in the head. He then conveniently took it down from his head.
With a glance, he found that it was a piece of jade. This jade ornament was very warm and had the word “Zhu” carved on it. It was easy to tell that it belonged to a girl. 1
“This is my little girl’s jade ornament!” As Li Qiye was still wondering about it, the village head happily shouted and told him: “This is the jade ornament left behind by my little girl. After she made her vow, it was taken by the divine tree. And today, today… it appears once more!” He was very excited at this point.
“Haha, the divine tree has answered and finally found the perfect groom for my little girl!” The village head tightly grabbed Li Qiye’s hands and exclaimed: “Haha, I will go and tell all of my old friends!” With that, he turned around and ran back to the village.
“Old friends, old friends, it is a day to rejoice!” The old man screamed while he ran back to the village.
Looking at the jade piece in his hand, Li Qiye felt a bit dumbfounded. He looked at the Dream Wishing Tree and suddenly had the urge to uproot it! Earlier when the village head was talking about his daughter, the tree suddenly hit his head with this jade piece. He believed that the tree must have done this on purpose because it had its own awareness!
“Hehe, congratulations, congratulations, you are about to become a groom!” Seeing Li Qiye standing there in a daze with the jade piece in his hand, Monk Dazhi happily laughed.
Li Qiye glared at him and said: “Congratulations my ass, who said that I wanted to be a groom!?”
“Heh, I’m afraid it is no longer up to you to decide. Even though Old Benefactor Yang is only a mere mortal, his daughter is quite a character. Moreover, a lot of amazing people came from this village. Hah, now that you are carrying her jade piece, if you don’t want to be a groom, then I’m afraid you will have to die.” Monk Dazhi happily laughed and said.
Having said this, the monk turned around, wanting to leave. Li Qiye noticed this and curiously asked him: “Why do you want to run? You aren’t the one who will be the new groom here!”
“Heh, you don’t know this, but Old Man Yang’s little girl is a great character. If she finds out that she suddenly has a fiance, maybe she will go crazy and flip the sky upside down. Hah, the even more pertinent thing is that if she finds out that I was also here, then I wouldn’t be able to wash my crime clean even if I jumped into the Yellow River! It is better for me to leave first!” Having said this, the monk quickly fled.
Li Qiye became speechless again. He wasn’t clear on just how great the village head’s daughter was, but seeing the fleeing monk, he could imagine that this girl was indeed extraordinary.
However, Li Qiye had never been afraid of anyone in his entire life. This matter was indeed very strange; he suddenly became someone else’s fiance and he couldn’t explain this even if he tried.
Around this time, he noticed the village head and his wife coming from afar along with a group of villagers. There were both the young and the old in this crowd, and it was clear that they were ecstatic.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but become afraid after seeing such a battalion. When would I run if not now? Having thought to this point, he quickly turned around to run.
When the group of villagers came to the Dream Wishing Tree and didn’t see anyone, the village head’s wife became angry and complained: “Look, this is all because of your old self. You’re so excited that it scared away our new groom.”
“No, definitely not!” The village head jumped up and said: “Quick, quickly send news to the girl and tell her to quickly come back, her fiance has run away!”
Li Qiye escaped from the village and saw a little temple that was built right outside. At this time, Monk Dazhi came out from the temple while carrying a big bag of stuff.
“The little girl of Old Man Yang is about to return home. Take care of yourself, I’m gonna run now. Heh, you better deal with it well because if you want to escape this marriage, maybe an army will chase after you at that time.” The old monk swiftly fled all the way to the horizon. Although he was reminding Li Qiye, his words carried a gloating tone.
Li Qiye could only helplessly shake his head. Although he ran away from the village, compared to the monk running for his life, he had an unhurried appearance.
After Li Qiye calculated the right direction, he also shifted his body and quickly disappeared from sight.
This time, Li Qiye came to the Sacred Nether World with a goal, so he jumped to the south and took out the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key and murmured: “I want to unravel a few mysteries in this generation!”
He was searching for a particular thing, so he kept on going south towards a familiar location. Nevertheless, he was still inside the Thousand Carp River’s territory.
Speaking of this name, it was a sect as well as the name of a river. In the Sacred Nether World, cultivators would certainly first think of the demonic gate that was passed down by Immortal Emperor Qian Li! In fact, the Thousand Carp River was a huge body of water not just in the Distant Cloud region, but the entire Sacred Nether World. It spanned for millions of miles like a coiling dragon around the region before streaming off straight into the ocean.
The Thousand Carp River’s territory encompassed the millions of miles on the two banks of this river. There were many sects and countries that were tributaries to an Immortal Emperor lineage like the Thousand Carp River!
The monstrous river, perhaps the biggest river of the Sacred Nether World, originated from an extremely high mountain. Some people tried to trace it all the way back to the Prime Ominous Grave.
And so, there was a theory in the Sacred Nether World: the Thousand Carp River starts from the Prime Ominous Grave and ends at the Thousand Islands! Because of its relationship with the Prime Ominous Grave, this huge river was filled with colorful legends and tales!
For millions of years, the river had always been shrouded in a fog of mystery as if there were many secrets in this river that wished to remain hidden from outsiders.
Many had tried to find out the river’s secrets, but very few were successful. Even so, people believed that if there was someone who was privy to the secrets, then it had to be Immortal Emperor Qian Li.
This phrase was not an arrow shot without aim since the mysterious Immortal Emperor Qian Li was rumored to also come from this river!
Li Qiye went south along the river. He was not in a hurry to reach his goal, so he took his time and indulged in his memories as he trod on this land.
Li Qiye had come to the Sacred Nether World many times in the last few hundreds of millions of years. He had also come to this river several times, especially during the generation of Immortal Emperor Qian Li. Li Qiye’s footprints were left all over the banks of the Thousand Carp River!
Li Qiye and the monk inadvertently walked to the entrance of the village during their stroll. There was an old tree that had been basked in countless streaks of moonlight. It required several people to hug the tree completely as its branches emanated outward like one big umbrella.
Because this tree had existed for so many years, a lot of moss was growing on its trunk.
Although it appeared to look very ordinary, even Li Qiye couldn’t help but to emotionally sigh as he looked at it: “Dream Wishing Tree, a rare sight in this world ah!”
Chapter 384 - Lu Baiqiu
For many eras, if a group of people claimed to know the secret of the Thousand Carp River, then Li Qiye would definitely be a part of this assembly. Moreover, within the current generation, Li Qiye might be the person who understood this river the best.
He would sometimes see ancient cities and declined clans along the river while he headed south, and he could only respond with a sigh. He saw the ruins of the magnificent and prosperous sceneries of the past. He gazed into the misty river for a long time in silence. O how many heroes, glories, and beauties passed away… None were able to withstand the test of time!
However, as the mulberry fields turned into blue seas, this surging river still remained the same as if nothing in this world could affect its torrential flow. It was like a dragon entrenched in this land.
Li Qiye’s southward journey had almost reached the estuary of the Thousand Carp River as he entered the territory of the Static Stream Country. Li Qiye became emotional after recalling such a familiar name as he gently bemoaned: “Static Stream Estuary — it is still the same after so many years!”
The Static Stream Country at the Distant Cloud region was an average-sized nation and its power could only be considered second-rate.
Moreover, it was a tribute to the Thousand Carp River for the millions of years till now. There was a reason for this; the progenitor of this country was a general under Immortal Emperor Qian Li. Legends state that after becoming the emperor and ruling over the Nine Worlds, he erected the sect next to the Thousand Carp River.
And as his general, the Static Stream Progenitor had always followed after the emperor. Eventually, the emperor bestowed the southern region of the river to the general so that he could form his own country!
This was why the Static Stream Country had always been attached to the Thousand Carp River. The truth was that the country used to be very powerful in the past; it was classified as a first-rate power. Unfortunately, after so many years, the country had fallen and lost its previous prestige. Despite this, because of its attachment to the Thousand Carp River, no other lineages dared to seize its territory in spite of its contemporary weakness.
As long as the Thousand Carp River remained standing, a lineage like the Static Stream Country could live in peace even if it was not as strong as before. 1
Stepping into the Static Stream Country and seeing that his destination was close, Li Qiye remained unhurried on his journey down south along the grand river.
As he leisurely strolled downstream, a thunderous rumble suddenly came from above. Li Qiye looked up and saw a flying ship in the sky that was also heading south!
Li Qiye did not find this matter strange at all and paid it no mind while the giant ship kept on flying south. However, not much time passed before it suddenly turned around and hovered above Li Qiye, only to slowly land beside him.
“Where are you going?” A girl who stood on the ship’s deck asked Li Qiye.
Suddenly being approached by a girl slightly took Li Qiye by surprise. Of course, he wasn’t narcissistic enough to think that he was handsome to the point where it caused girls to hit on him.
“Me?” Li Qiye pointed at himself and then said: “I’m going to the Thousand Islands!”
“Come up.” The girl said: “We are also going to the Thousand Islands, so we can give you a ride.”
Li Qiye was quite amused about his first time hitching a ride. He laughed and jumped on this gigantic ship. After he boarded, the ship made a loud bang and flew towards the south.
The moment he boarded, he found that there were more than ten cultivators already sitting on the deck. Some were young and some were old. All of them wore the same colored clothing. It was easy to tell that they were all from the same sect.
The cultivators onboard nodded their heads at him as a friendly greeting.
The girl who called for him to board said: “Just sit anywhere. The Thousand Islands is already very close so we’ll be there in a flash.”
Li Qiye sat down and couldn’t help but to take another look at this girl. She was around the age of twenty, the spring of her youth — beautiful and alluring.
Li Qiye had seen so many beauties that it was too many to count, but this girl ahead of him was still enough to brighten people’s eyes.
Her short hair was down to her shoulders — this was quite an eye-catching sight. It gave her the appearance of a straightforward and decisive woman.
Although her beauty was not overly supreme, her bright eyes and full lips gave others the impression of purity. The armor she wore also accentuated her air of valor.
Despite being young, she carried the aura of a big sister. It was apparent that she was the leader of this group.
“My name is Li Qiye, how should I address you, Miss?” After looking at her, Li Qiye introduced himself with a smile.
“Lu Baiqiu.” The girl was also very straightforward and said: “Region Lord of the Static Stream Country’s Thousand Islands!”
Li Qiye had not seen this type of girl in a long time and couldn’t help but smile: “I am truly grateful to Miss for giving me a ride.”
“Heh, our Region Lord fancies you, Little Fella, and wants to take you as her husband!” A middle-aged man on the ship joked.
The other disciples on the ship, both young and old, couldn’t help but explode in laughter after hearing this.
“Dazhu, you feeling itchy?” Lu Baiqiu rubbed her fists and gazed at this man with her pretty eyes as if she intended to beat him up.
“Oh, Region Lord, I was just joking, just joking!” Seeing those fists, the man thought about how his Region Lord would ruthlessly beat people up and quickly forced a smile.
The other disciples were all just loudly laughing with gloating expressions. Despite their difference in age, they were very close to each other.
Lu Baiqiu ignored the other disciples and spoke to Li Qiye: “At the Sacred Nether World, we humans should unite and help each other.”
Li Qiye smiled and thought that her ideal was not bad. Alas, reality was cruel. No matter which world it was and no matter what race one was from, killing would always exist.
“What are you going to the Thousand Islands for?” Lu Baiqiu was the Region Lord of the islands. The area was under her jurisdiction so her curiosity was piqued.
“To pick up some medicinal herbs.” Li Qiye answered with a smile: “I heard that the Ghost Locust Tree grows at the Thousand Islands. Recently, I have been crafting a new medicinal paste so I need the resin from these trees. This is the reason for my trip.”
“Ghost Locust Tree?” Lu Baiqiu immediately replied: “There really are a lot of Ghost Locust Trees at the Thousand Islands. It is an indigenous tree at our islands.”
Although many lineages did not allow outsiders to harvest the resources of their territories, Lu Baiqiu didn’t mind after hearing Li Qiye’s goal of taking some tree resin.
At the Thousand Islands, the estuary of the great river, the torrential current started to flow into the ocean.
Gazing ahead, one could see a misty scene with surging ocean water while little islands emerged one after another. Some were big, some were small; the large ones were the size of a continent while the small ones were only akin to a small hill. Above them were bustling cities with tens of thousands of mortals!
Although this place was called the Thousand Islands, someone had calculated that there were only ninety-nine islands here. There was also speculation where there used to be one hundred islands, but one of them sunk into the sea.
This was the limit of the Thousand Carp River’s jurisdiction; if one went any further beyond this place, they would find the endless southern sea. The Thousand Islands was also the southernmost territory of the Static Stream Country. The Azure City was on the largest island, thus the island was also named as such.
The Azure City’s isle spanned for one thousand miles and had more than one hundred thousand inhabitants!
The main establishment of the Static Stream Country presided on this island, and Lu Baiqiu, being the Thousand Islands’ Region Lord, meant that she was the person with the most authority! Being a Region Lord at such a young age meant that her own abilities were not shabby.
Once the ship flew above the islands, Li Qiye told her: “I’ll get off the ship here.”
Lu Baiqiu ordered for the ship to halt. After Li Qiye got off, she told him: “If there is any trouble, you can come find us! We will help you to the best of our abilities!”
“Young Man, try a bit harder!” An older cultivator on the ship winked at Li Qiye and said with a smile: “Our Region Lord has been single for a very long time now. Maybe you have a chance, we are very optimistic about you!”
These misleading words only left Li Qiye silent while Lu Baiqiu glared at the laughing disciples.
As the giant ship flew into the Azure City, Li Qiye took a look around. He went to a high peak that overlooked the Thousand Islands in the far distance.
“The Static Stream protects the Thousand Islands… What a shame, he didn’t build the capital at this place.” Li Qiye lamented as he looked at the scenery ahead.
During the era of Immortal Emperor Qian Li, the Static Stream Progenitor established his country after listening to Li Qiye’s advice. Unfortunately, he only founded the country and didn’t build its capital right on this spot!
For many eras, if a group of people claimed to know the secret of the Thousand Carp River, then Li Qiye definitely would be a part of this assembly. Moreover, within the current generation, Li Qiye might be the person who understood this river the best.
He would sometimes see ancient cities and declined clans along the river while he headed south, so he could only respond with a sigh. He saw the ruins of the magnificent and prosperous sceneries of the past. He gazed into the misty river for a long time in silence. How many heroes, glories, beauties passed away… They all could not withstand the test of time!
However, as the mulberry fields turned into blue seas, this surging river still remained the same as if nothing in the world could affect its torrential flow. It was like a dragon entrenched in this land.
Li Qiye’s southward journey had almost reached the estuary of the Thousand Carp River as he entered the territory of the Static Stream Country. Li Qiye became emotional after recalling such a familiar name as he gently bemoaned: “Static Stream Estuary — it is still the same after so many years!”
Chapter 385 - Collecting Tree Resin
Thousand Islands’ location was not strategically important to the Static Stream Country nor the Thousand Carp River. This was the estuary that connected the vast ocean with the great river.
Although there were sea demons that inhabited the ocean, neither the sea tribes nor the sea demons were a threat to the country, the Thousand Carp River, or the Distant Cloud Region.
In the past, Li Qiye had recommended for the Static Stream Progenitor to establish the capital at the Thousand Islands, but unfortunately, he abandoned this idea and erected his capital in a more fertile land, thus letting go of a great fortune for many generations.
Standing on the hills that overlooked the ninety-nine islands, one would find that some were big and some were small, and none of them appeared to be special from a quick glance.
However, Li Qiye knew that there was a big secret hidden in this place. The research that he did in the past had not been fruitful until he obtained the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key from the Eastern Hundred Cities. It was then that he understood the key’s mysteries, leading him to solve the secret of the Thousand Islands.
This was also why he wanted to go to the Sacred Nether Realm, and why the Thousand Islands was one of his goals.
He explored one island after another before stopping on the one farthest to the south. This particular island didn’t have many good points compared to the others, but if one had to name a particularly unique characteristic, then it would be that this island looked like a palm from a bird’s eye view.
Li Qiye looked down from the highest point of the island and murmured: “So it is indeed this place. One of the things that remained incalculable for eras!”
There was a withered tree at the highest point of this island. To be more exact, this withered tree had already died. Its body was burnt to a crisp black; it seemed to have incited the heavenly wrath and got struck by lightning till death. In the end, only a three-foot stump remained above the ground.
This stump was also hollow, the hole reaching deep into the ground. It was pitch black as one looked down into this tree hole.
This stump that was killed by lightning seemed to be a black hand reaching out from the ground, inviting unsuspecting visitors.
“Thunk, thunk, thunk.” As Li Qiye tapped on the stump, it issued a clear metallic sound as if it was not made of wood, but divine iron.
“So this really is it!” After carefully observing it and comparing it to the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key in his hand, Li Qiye couldn’t help but mutter. He finally revealed a smile and said: “Let me see if the legend is real or not. Allow me to solve this eternal mystery!”
Since his arrival, Li Qiye conveniently built a hut and began to live his life as a mortal. During his stay on the island, he started to harvest the resin of the Ghost Locust Trees as if he had become a resin farmer.
However, he did not limit himself to the Ghost Locust Trees on this island, he wanted to harvest resin from all of the islands.
Not only did he require a large amount of resin, he also needed to leave behind a unique mark on all of the trees on the islands.
If it was something as simple as harvesting, then he could have just hired some mortals to do so to save himself the trouble. It was obvious that Li Qiye required more than just the resin alone.
Ever since his stay at the islands, day after day passed by as he performed farming duties, cutting the tree bark, then harvesting the resin! He did so over and over again from sunrise all the way until sunset.
Despite being so close to the sea, there were still hundreds of thousands of mortals that lived on the islands with cities that were no less grand than the inland ones.
It could be said that the Thousand Islands was quite a bustling place. The mortals here mainly fished for a living; there were not too many farmers because the resin of the Ghost Locust Tree essentially had no use.
The mortal inhabitants found it quite strange to see Li Qiye going around the islands to harvest the resin from the trees. Nevertheless, the islands belonged to the Static Stream Country, and the highest authority of the islands was the Region Lord, Lu Baiqiu.
Since Lu Baiqiu allowed for Li Qiye to harvest resin on the islands, other people didn’t bother to interfere with him.
Later on, Lu Baiqiu also came to see Li Qiye. It had to be said that Lu Baiqiu was indeed a good lady. As long as human cultivators who came to the islands didn’t cause any trouble, they would receive help from the islands’ authority.
Of course, Lu Baiqiu was also surprised to see Li Qiye collect so much resin: “What are you going to do after harvesting so much?”
Keep in mind that the resin of these trees had always been useless, so despite there being a lot scattered across the islands, it was not very valuable.
“I am mixing together a particular medicinal paste that requires a large amount of tree resin, so I plan to take a lot now in order to avoid running back here in the future.” Li Qiye answered with a smile.
His answer was quite reasonable, so Lu Baiqiu didn’t probe any further. She had already allowed for him to do so, so as long as he didn’t cause any trouble, he would remain under her protection.
In the beginning, some people felt that a farmer like Li Qiye was indeed a bit different, but after a while, they got used to it and no one paid attention to such a farmer.
Li Qiye spent his time on the island by following a very strict schedule. During the day, he would harvest the resin, during the night, he would cultivate. Despite doing such an important job, he was not in a rush at all. He aimed to carve gigantic runic outlines on the islands; these markings were part of the rune arrays!
But as all the residents on the islands got used to Li Qiye, someone began to notice him.
An invited guest came to his hut; it was a lady, a very beautiful lady. She wore a blue dress and had a transcendent aura. Her beauty could shame the moon and flowers and cause the birds to fall while the fishes would dive since they found themselves unworthy. Her figure was amorous and had a charming style. All of her gestures were filled with a transcendental air as if she did not belong in this mortal world.
With a spirited pair of eyes, her body seemed to be filled with worldly essence. At the same time, her breath was as refreshing as a pure bamboo forest.
After she came to the Thousand Islands, she immediately took note of Li Qiye and watched him for two to three days as if she wanted to find a clue.
Two days later, as Li Qiye was harvesting the resin, he lightly said to this lady: “Little Girl, don’t stand behind me and watch all day long. My temper is not very good, so you better watch it, lest I throw you into the sea to feed the sharks.”
It was quite strange to see someone younger than her speak as if he was an experienced old man. However, the lady did not become angry and slightly chuckled instead: “Uncle, I just wanted to warn you.”
“Uncle?” Li Qiye gave her a look and said: “If you wish to get close to me, calling me uncle won’t do. If you call me Young Master or Young Noble, then I can consider taking you in.”
The lady in blue didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. This guy in front of her was a little too much. Who in the entire Distant Cloud would dare to boast about taking her in?
“Uncle, watch out or you might bite your tongue!” The lady in blue said with a wide smile. Her spirited smile was like the blooming of a hundred flowers or the singing of an oriole — warming the heart and delighting the eyes.
She continued to say: “If you want to brag, then make sure you can back it up. Otherwise, it won’t do.”
Li Qiye glared at her and said: “What does a little girl like you know? Don’t interfere with my business, or I’ll really throw you into the sea no matter how great your origin may be.” Having said that, he started to ignore her and kept on harvesting the resin.
The lady in blue was astounded. She had met many arrogant people, but not one this outrageous.
However, she did not give up and continued to follow Li Qiye as he harvested and said: “Uncle, I’m giving you a warning out of kindness!”
“What warning?” Li Qiye said as he was collecting the resin.
The lady in blue also put on a demeanor similar to Li Qiye’s and nonchalantly smiled: “Do you know the origin of the Thousand Islands?”
“The Thousand Islands’ origin?” Upon hearing this, Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile, then he looked at her to say: “I actually want to hear about the origin of these islands.”
The lady in blue said: “Legends say that during a very ancient time, ninety-nine fierce ghosts once caused chaos at the Sacred Nether World and turned it into a ghastly world. The high heavens was enraged by the actions of these ninety-nine ghosts and unleashed their supreme wrath to kill the ninety-nine ghosts. In the end, the bodies of these ghosts drifted down the Thousand Carp River and eventually reached the estuary before sinking into the ocean. In the end, their bodies turned into the islands that you see here.”
Chapter 386 - Mysterious Lady In Blue
“The Sacred Nether World is essentially a ghastly realm. Perhaps there are monstrous ghosts buried beneath the ground, so even if the Thousand Islands are made from the ninety-nine ghosts, it is nothing too special.” Li Qiye replied with a smile.
There weren’t many in this world that knew more about the Thousand Islands’ origin than Li Qiye; of course, the existence lying below the earth did not count!
“This is not the scariest part!” The lady in blue blinked her spirited eyes and softly said: “Their bodies became the islands, and their hair turned into the Ghost Locust Trees. The resin of the Ghost Locust Trees is actually the cursed blood of these ghosts, so anyone who is infected with this blood will have to suffer the curse.”
“Uncle, you have to be careful because if you get cursed, the legend says that you will turn into stone.” The lady gently smiled and said.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but chuckle at the lady’s story.
The lady in blue couldn’t restrain herself: “Uncle, why are you laughing? This is a real legend, not just some made-up tale that I thought up on the spot.”
Li Qiye looked at her and leisurely said: “Curse… Do you know what the most terrifying curse in this world is?”
“What is it?” The lady in blue curiously shifted her head and looked at Li Qiye.
Li Qiye pointed at his face and cheerfully said: “The most terrifying curse in this world… is me! The curse of the ghosts is nothing. Even the curse from the high heavens — to me — is just like the drifting clouds, nothing more.”
“Uncle, you really can’t deviate from your main profession. Just a few words and you have started boasting again.” The lady in blue couldn’t help but reveal a very beautiful chuckle as she narrowed her pretty eyes. 1
Li Qiye smilingly shook his head in response and stopped paying attention to her again. How could she know the secret regarding this matter?
“Uncle, what are you harvesting so much resin for?” The lady did not give up and kept on following Li Qiye. She was clearly older than him, but she wanted to tease him, so she kept on referring to him as “uncle” over and over.
Li Qiye stopped and looked at her: “Do you really want to know what I want to do?”
“I’m all ears!” The lady in blue took a dignified pose, causing her to look very elegant. Others would not dare to bear impure thoughts in her sight.
Li Qiye narrowed his eyes to glare at her. This caused the lady’s heart to jump since she felt a dangerous aura. Right now, her intuition was warning her about the danger that emanated from Li Qiye. It was as if he was a wild prehistoric beast and she was only a helpless lamb being preyed upon by him!
“It is not too difficult to find out the secret!” Li Qiye said with a smile: “I am a very benevolent individual that will happily share secrets with others. How about this, I am in need of a faded old wife to cook for me. You can stay behind as a cook, then you might be able to find the mysteries within.” 2
Upon hearing this, the lady couldn’t help but touch her face a bit. Girls were always sensitive about appearances, so she coquettishly said: “I am not a faded old woman!”
“There’s not much difference.” Li Qiye casually said: “Even if you aren’t one now, your age isn’t too far off. Stay behind and be a nice housewife. Cooking for me is not unbecoming of you.”
The lady in blue suddenly became speechless and also felt an impulse to become crazy! Even though a heaven’s proud daughter like her didn’t care for her appearance too much, she was nearly driven mad by Li Qiye’s words today.
With her face and her figure, even if she was not number one in the Distant Cloud region, she was still among the top ranks. She was absolutely a great beauty that was capable of toppling kingdoms and cities, but now, she was only a faded old woman in Li Qiye’s eyes.
The more enraging matter was that Li Qiye essentially didn’t think anything of her. With her talents and background, she was definitely the most famous heaven’s proud daughter right now.
At the Distant Cloud, she was absolutely number one amongst the younger generation; it didn’t matter what characteristic people would rank the young ones with. Normally, countless young prodigies would wish to accompany her during a trip. Many of them desperately tried their best just to have a chance to see her face.
Today, Li Qiye spoke as if she was nothing and even wanted her to cook like a mortal. And the worst part was that he made it sound as if cooking for him was an honorable deed!
“It is fine if you don’t want to.” Li Qiye then continued his business without giving her any consideration.
“Fine, I’ll just stay then!” The lady in blue took a deep breath and finally managed to endure her anger.
Li Qiye gently waved his sleeve and said: “It is getting late, so you should go back first. Make a good lunch for me so that I can eat once I’m back.”
The lady in blue was shivering with anger; a heaven’s proud daughter like her was now his servant! But she still managed to contain her impulse to go mad.
‘Have to endure, must endure… It won’t be too late to slowly teach this brat a lesson later on. Then, we’ll see if he can still be so arrogant!’ In the end, she went back to cook for Li Qiye. If outsiders knew of this matter, eyes would definitely roll on the floor.
At noon, Li Qiye went back to his island and immediately smelled something burning. After noticing that there were a few burnt dishes on the table, he shook his head and said: “Oh my, your cooking skills are much worse than a faded old woman’s.”
The lady almost vomited blood from anger. A proud girl like her actually had to cook for someone. Doing such a lowly thing was not something she wanted to do.
Nevertheless, the food might be a little burnt, but at least it was still made with her effort! Not to mention that she couldn’t be blamed. Ever since she started cultivating in her sect, she never had to participate in such trivial duties. It was already excellent that she could make something like this.
“Little Brat, if you don’t want to eat, then throw it away!” She could no longer bear it and shouted.
Li Qiye looked at her. He calmly tapped on the table and said with a leisurely smile: “Pay attention to your image, your image. What kind of girl screams like a tigress all of a sudden when something goes wrong? Maintain the appearance and attitude of a lady… Do you even know what a lady is? I hope I don’t have to teach you this!”
The lady in blue almost died from exploding as she angrily glared at Li Qiye.
“Well, it seems that you did put in some effort, so I will have a taste of your dishes. Get the rice.” With this, Li Qiye handed his bowl over to the lady in blue.
The lady in blue felt like beating this brat who thought way too highly of himself.
Meanwhile, Li Qiye looked at her and smiled: “So? You are the one who’s willing to stay behind and be a housewife; a cultivator should have a firm will, don’t give up halfway.”
The lady in blue angrily fetched some rice for Li Qiye. If outsiders saw this scene, they would be in a state of disbelief. This was the fairy in the dreams of countless handsome young men who would fight each other just to earn her favor. However, their fairy, right now, had to cook for someone else and do all the tasks a housewife had to perform. She was even being bullied!
As Li Qiye was carefully chewing, the lady in blue had some expectations as she looked at Li Qiye. In the end, it was her first time cooking so she felt quite accomplished and wanted to ask Li Qiye about the taste.
“It is okay, it’s not hard to eat!” Eventually, Li Qiye smilingly evaluated her meal.
“Throw it away if you don’t want to eat it!” The lady’s temper flared up again as she gave him a stern glare. She then ignored Li Qiye as she sat to the side with the appearance of a wronged daughter-in-law. 3
Li Qiye couldn’t help but chuckle. Then, he shook his head: “Little Girl, don’t think you are being treated unfairly. I’m only keeping you around because I think highly of you! If I wished to recruit maids, then forget about the great powers in the Distant Cloud, even the goddesses and fairies of your Ancestral Domain would have to be my maids.”
The lady in blue lifted her head and glared at Li Qiye before she snappily retorted: “Hey, Uncle, your boasting is becoming even more outrageous. Do you even know what the Ancestral Domain represents in the Sacred Nether World?”
“What does it represent?” Li Qiye lazily said: “It’s only a bunch of things that are neither human nor ghost hiding underground, not daring to come out. If their real great ghost could come out, then it might be a bit amazing. If not, then they are no big deal in my eyes!”
“Less bragging please!” The lady in blue angrily said.
Li Qiye only smiled and didn’t say anything else as he continued to eat in a carefree manner.
The lady looked at Li Qiye and didn’t know what to say for a while. Now, she was completely lost. Her initial intention of judging his identity was now completely muddled with confusion.
There was nothing strange or special about this brat. Regarding geniuses, talents, and prodigies, she had seen many of them.
However, this brat before her simply could not compare to geniuses. His arrogant tone was just out of this world! It was as if nothing could get into his sight despite this world being so vast.
Right now, she didn’t understand where this guy’s confidence was coming from at all.
He didn’t seem to be ignorant to the point of being arrogant, but if he wasn’t ignorant, then he should know better and not have so much self-confidence.
Chapter 387 - Nine Celestials Enlightened Being
The lady in blue became a housewife and cooked for Li Qiye. She never revealed her name and background, and Li Qiye never asked.
She didn’t ask for his origin as well, not even his name. It was as if the two of them preferred to keep it mysterious.
In this way, the two of them stayed together in a strange and mysterious atmosphere. Others would actually think that they were husband and wife. The male was hard at work while the girl maintained the house; a talented groom and a beautiful wife — a match made in heaven that was living in seclusion on this small island.
The lady in blue staying with him didn’t affect Li Qiye at all. He still harvested the resin in the day and cultivated at night.
The lady in blue acted like a virtuous young wife. The meals were always ready for her husband when he came back home.
This peaceful lifestyle continued for a short time. The two had a tacit understanding to maintain this harmonious and mysterious situation.
During one night, the lady in blue was deep in her meditation, but she suddenly heard loud explosions. In this instant, energy crazily surged as if a monster in the shape of a man was devouring the worldly essence in this area.
With a shocked expression, she immediately dashed outside and saw an astonishing sight. Li Qiye was sitting in the meditative pose on a hill with his Fate Palaces out in the open. The Kun Peng True Fate had its wings opened and covered the entire island as it frantically swallowed worldly essence.
Moreover, Li Qiye’s True Fate was not the only thing sucking up worldly essence. His six Fate Palaces turned into a vast domain that was filled with primordial chaos and, like a god opening its mouth, they sucked in all the energy of this world.
“A six palaces Royal Noble!” Seeing Li Qiye’s six Fate Palaces, the lady in blue was quite amazed. Having six palaces at this realm meant that he was a genius amongst geniuses.
“Ommm—” Amidst her daze, the nine heavens suddenly became bright. The starry sky promptly ushered forth countless celestial lights in the form of a magnificent galaxy onto Li Qiye.
However, these lights were not absorbed into his body. Instead, a supreme universal law chained them down. The surging tide-like lights were locked by Li Qiye’s dao foundation in the sky as his True Fate used an unparalleled technique to craft them into stars.
After some crisp sounds, nine dazzling stars were suddenly created and hovered around Li Qiye.
At this time, Li Qiye carried a majestic air like the ruler of the universe as he emitted a peerless aura.
“Nine celestials!” Seeing the nine stars, the lady in blue lost her colors. She then took in a deep breath and murmured: “Impossible! Nine celestials Enlightened Being — someone like this has not appeared for a long time!”
Above Royal Noble was the Star Plucking realm, and cultivators of this realm were called Enlightened Beings. This realm directed the stars from the nine heavens in order to craft one’s own stars. Only when one could seize the stars would one be able to also seize the universe!
For ordinary cultivators, seven stars were the limit.
If one could create eight stars, then it didn’t matter if this person only opened three Fate Palaces in the Royal Noble realm. A Royal Noble with only three palaces had a very limited potential and couldn’t reach Ancient Saint, let alone Heavenly Sovereign and Heavenly King. The more palaces, the greater the potential.
Of course, if one couldn’t open the fourth palace in the Royal Noble realm, then there was still a chance to surpass this limitation if they could create the eighth star in the Enlightened Being realm!
This eighth star was the key to unlocking the door to Heavenly Sovereign, Heavenly King, and even Virtuous Paragon. Thus, Enlightened Beings with eight stars were also called Heaven Riders.
In fact, crafting the eighth star was far more difficult than opening the fourth palace. Many people with four palaces could not create this eighth star. As for those who couldn’t even open the fourth palace, don’t even dream about creating the eighth star.
Naturally, through the endless ages, there would be exceptions. Some lost their chance in the Royal Noble realm, but they suddenly showed their talents in the Enlightened Being realm.
An eight celestials Heaven Rider was an amazing miracle; they had a key to unlock their path towards Virtuous Paragon.
One shouldn’t even think about nine stars. Very few since time immemorial were able to create the ninth star.
Nine stars meant Eternal Prestige! Having nine stars was a very terrifying thing. Legends say that those with nine stars could easily pick either the Path of the Heavens or the Path of the Grand Era and would have a high chance of becoming a tyrannical Immortal Emperor or an invincible God!
Currently, Li Qiye had six palaces and also created nine stars. Thus, this suddenly shook the lady in blue. She was an incredible genius that was matchless in the younger generation, and she was very confident in her gifts and cultivation. However, with Li Qiye reaching six palaces and nine stars, she suddenly became eclipsed since there was an uncrossable gap between them!
“Even if I am too handsome, don’t swoon over me so much like this!” While she was still in a daze, she suddenly heard a nonchalant voice ringing by her ears.
With a shiver, she immediately calmed down and saw Li Qiye standing before her. He revealed his white-as-snow teeth and smiled: “I know that I am unreasonably handsome, but it is wrong for you to be so obsessed with me like this.”
The angry lady suddenly had the urge to stomp this egomaniac to death as she bitterly said: “Bah, your face makes me want to die. Who would ever want to look at you!” Finished speaking, she stormed back into the hut.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but laugh after seeing the lady’s attitude, and the lady who had just gone inside ground her teeth after hearing this laugh. There would be a day when she teaches this brat a good lesson!
This kind of life lasted for half a year. At this time, Li Qiye finished collecting resin, so he laid out his runic arrays across the islands. His supreme formation was finally created.
At this time, he began to refine the harvested resin. Collecting this resin was not just an excuse, he actually needed it. It had a magical effect unbeknownst to others besides Li Qiye.
Although the old tale from the lady in blue seemed a little ridiculous, it indeed had some secrets that were purposely hidden to outsiders. These secrets had something to do with both the Thousand Islands and the Ghost Locust Trees.
At the time of refinement, Li Qiye took out the Myriad Heavenly Cauldron and shouted, causing the cauldron’s flame to furiously burn as it turned into a gigantic cauldron. This giant fire seemed to be able to melt everything in an instant.
“Pour all the resin inside.” Li Qiye commanded his assistant, the lady in blue, who was standing to the side.
She immediately poured all of the resin in. After such a long time of harvesting, the resin weighed more than ten thousand pounds.
The lady who was assisting him felt a bit confused. She had never heard of any effects that this resin may have, so she was full of curiosity.
“Zzzz—” A melting sound appeared. All of the resin instantly melted away after it was poured in.
Right after everything was melted, Li Qiye activated the cauldron and, in just a split second, the powerful fiery contraption suddenly turned into a tornado of flames, causing the wind to fiercely howl. All of the resin was spun up high as the fiery dragon-like tornado crazily flung them about, resulting in a spectacular scene.
The lady in blue had seen many alchemists, including Legendary Alchemists, but she was stunned when she saw Li Qiye’s technique. This alchemy style was a bit too violent.
However, such a brutal technique instantly separated the impurities from the resin. These impurities were instantly brought to the primal flame and became incinerated in just a moment.
The separated resin was now clear with a faint smell of wood. At this time, they seemed to be condensing into a jewel-like stone.
Li Qiye had a serious expression as he took out a box. He very carefully took out a leaf that was surrounded by golden lightning.
“What is that?” Seeing this young leaf that resembled a jewel surrounded by golden lightning, the lady in blue emotionally asked.
“This… this is the legendary young leaf of the World Tree!” After a long time, she finally managed to identify the origin of this young leaf and was instantly rendered breathless. Even her sect would not be able to come up with such an item.
In fact, it wasn’t just her sect. Any other faction in this world would not be able to take out such an item because the young leaf of the World Tree only belonged in the legends. Essentially, people had never seen it before.
Chapter 388 - Thousand Islands’ Mystery
The lady in blue was very knowledgeable since she came from a renowned sect. She had only seen this young leaf from an ancient scroll. Moreover, it didn’t have a picture of the leaf, there was only a description stating that there was golden lightning circulating through it. It was definitely rare, and rumors say that only Immortal Emperor Hao Hai had gotten ahold of one.
Even in her wildest dreams, she wouldn’t expect for such a mythical young leaf to appear in Li Qiye’s hands, let alone to be able to see it on such an ordinary island.
Meanwhile, Li Qiye carefully placed the young leaf into the refined resin as he controlled the cauldron to refine the leaf as well.
The flame appeared to have its own sentience as plumes of flame tenderly encompassed the leaf. In just the blink of an eye, the leaf turned into a liquid. The golden lightning entered the resin like calligraphy ink spilling onto a piece of paper inside the cauldron.
The entire process was quite time consuming. After a long period of time, the resin slowly boiled as the cauldron created different universal laws that were as thin as silk strings to surround the resin.
Slowly, the initially transparent resin suddenly transformed into a golden liquid concoction.
Meanwhile, the lady in blue became a bit speechless as she watched this scene. A young leaf of the World Tree was an invaluable item that could reverse life and death. However, Li Qiye actually used such a priceless item to refine this resin — truly too extravagant and irrational.
“This is too wasteful!” She couldn’t help but utter.
“A good item has to be used correctly; if utilized incorrectly, then no matter how great the item is, it would still be worthless.” Li Qiye looked at the golden liquid concoction in the cauldron and couldn’t help but smile.
Next, he also threw the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key inside the contraption. Once it was inside, Li Qiye kept on fueling the flames, causing the medicinal concoction to boil even more!
As the medicinal concoction started to bubble, the key was like a piece of dried ink releasing a black substance. Not long after, the entire golden concoction took on a pitch-black color like ink.
“You, you are being too wasteful!” The lady in blue had the urge to stop Li Qiye. Such a peerless young leaf from the World Tree was wasted in such a manner, could there be an even more prodigal son than he in this world? None of them were worth mentioning in his presence!
However, something very weird happened at this time. Waves of ghostly screams started to emanate from inside the cauldron, followed by countless ghosts rushing out.
All of these ghosts started to bear their fangs and claws, instilling fear in all spectators.
“Omm—” While the lady in blue was being creeped out, the key that was immersed in the medicinal contraption emitted a light that was filled with an immortal presence as if it was everlasting.
“Success!” Seeing this scene, Li Qiye became excited and murmured: “So it really was like this!”
At this time, the contraption became calm again, and the scary ghosts from earlier all disappeared. The happy Li Qiye then took the key from the medicinal contraption and poured the liquid into a jar.
Seeing Li Qiye finishing the refinement process, the lady in blue couldn’t help but ask: “What, what medicinal paste are you refining?”
In her eyes, Li Qiye wasn’t simply refining any ordinary immortal or divine pill. But despite this, he actually used an eternally rare young leaf of the World Tree. This was too irrational! With such a leaf as the leading ingredient, one could probably concoct the rarest kind of immortal elixir in this world. And yet, Li Qiye just used this rare leaf on a black concoction with an unknown use. Such wastefulness deserved criticism from everyone.
“Ghost Attracting Medicine!” Li Qiye cheerfully smiled and said: “Little Girl, because you have been acting as my housewife for so long, I will give you a chance to broaden your horizons. Follow me!”
Finished speaking, he carried the medicine jar and walked away.
Full of curiosity, the lady in blue immediately chased after him. Li Qiye didn’t go very far. He went to the highest location on this island and stopped three feet before the previously mentioned tree stump.
This already-dead tree stump no longer had any signs of life. The center was just a palm-shaped void.
A wooden stump like this in the middle of a forest was something that didn’t warrant attention from anyone. However, at this time, Li Qiye carefully opened the medicine jar and poured the concoction that he just refined onto the stump one layer after another. In just a moment, the stump was filled with layers of medicine, and the moment it dried, it was as if a layer of black residue was covering the stump.
Seeing this scene, the lady in blue felt like murdering someone. This was the medicine that was created with the World Tree’s young leaf, yet Li Qiye was pouring it over a dead stump. Who in this world was more wasteful than him?
At this time, Li Qiye suddenly became nervous as he held the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key and gazed at the dead stump that was covered in medicine. Just for this dead stump, he already invested a young leaf from the World Tree. If this didn’t work, then it would truly be a waste.
A while later, the entire estuary suddenly shook. Many cultivators on the island felt this change in the earth, including Region Lord Lu Baiqiu. There was no follow up to the initial tremor.
Many cultivators felt that it was an illusion, that it was only a small tremor, thus no one paid it any mind. However, real masters like the lady in blue didn’t have the same opinion.
At this moment, she felt that something popped at the deepest parts beneath the Thousand Islands. It was as if a heart had just jumped, followed by a calm heartbeat that suddenly vanished without a trace.
Despite the disappearance of this sound, she still felt that something was awakening in the depths of the earth. Maybe the strongest creature since the start of time had been sleeping beneath these grounds.
In this instant, anyone that could see the blade marks left by Li Qiye on the Ghost Locust Trees around the islands would find that these cuts were coming alive. The runes began to move, and they suddenly shifted underground.
This was the great spell that Li Qiye crafted! Keep in mind that his research regarding the islands was not something he recently started. He had already researched these islands a long time ago, and despite having menial returns, he still found a thing or two regarding the secrets of this place. Alas, he had been missing two key things — the young leaf of the World Tree and the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key!
Especially during his sudden revelation when he looked at the key. At that time, he immediately answered a few questions that had been haunting his mind, a few secrets that were unsolved in the Sacred Nether World!
He stood there with bated breath as he watched the dead stump. An unknown amount of time passed by before a slight popping sound gently rang. At this time, the withered stump suddenly gave birth to a young green leaf! This young leaf had a magnificent green color and sprouted from the thick layer of medicinal paste, signifying that it was healthy and growing.
“Yes!” Li Qiye rejoiced after seeing this faint green leaf! Amidst this moment of jubilation, the dried stump suddenly spewed out a thick mist as black as ink. This mist was like a cloud of nether energy that caused others to shiver with their hair standing on end.
Li Qiye immediately threw the key in his hand into the mist. With a buzzing sound, the key actually hovered in the mist and emitted many waves of light that carried an everlasting energy.
These strands of light suddenly penetrated the stump and drilled into the ground from that spot.
Next, the lady in blue heard a series of sounds that resembled cheers, but she also felt as if this was merely an illusion and couldn’t tell whether they were real or not.
Amidst her confusion, little ghosts — one after another — suddenly jumped out from the empty tree stump. These little ghosts were all shrouded in mist, and all of them had different figures and expressions.
One of the little ghosts wore a golden robe as if he was the king of the ghosts, another had two fangs while a third had two wings…
These ghosts suddenly rushed into the Ghost’s Origin Ancestral Key. The three foot long key initially had ninety-nine little ghosts carved on it, so the ghosts that jumped out from the tree stump found their corresponding carvings and became one with the key.
The lady in blue was speechless and in a daze, but she still managed to count the little ghosts that came out from the ground. After the last one emerged, a total of ninety-nine little ghosts could be seen on the key.
The ninety-nine little ghosts all successfully found the carving that corresponded to them on the key and became one with it.
It was as if the ninety-nine engravings on the key were crafted from the figures of these ninety-nine little ghosts from underground.
After all the little ghosts entered the carvings, the key seemed to have a life of its own and emitted a divine mist-like aura. In a short period of time, a ghastly energy covered the key, but it was no longer ominous. Instead, it was filled with a divine aura as if it was the breath of a Ghost Immortal!
The lady in blue was very knowledgeable since she came from a renowned sect. She had only seen this young leaf from an ancient scroll. Moreover, it didn’t have a picture of the leaf, there was only a description stating that there was golden lightning circulating through it. It was definitely rare, and rumors say that only Immortal Emperor Hao Hai had gotten a hold of one.
Even in her wildest dreams, she didn’t expect for such a mythical young leaf to appear in Li Qiye’s hands, let alone see it on such an ordinary island.
Meanwhile, Li Qiye carefully placed the young leaf into the refined resin as he controlled the cauldron to refine the leaf as well.
The flame appeared to have its own sentience as plumes of fire tenderly entered the leaf. In just the blink of an eye, the leaf turned into a liquid. The golden lightning entered the resin like calligraphy ink spilling onto a piece of paper inside the cauldron.
Chapter 389 - Lady in Blue’s Departure
This ghastly scene astounded the lady in blue. She didn’t know what the ninety-nine little ghosts represented nor did she know what the key that resembled a ruler was!
However, her intuition was telling her that both of these things were extraordinary. Otherwise, they would not have been worthy of Li Qiye spending a young leaf from the World Tree.
Seeing the ghosts entering the key, Li Qiye couldn’t help but become happy as he took a deep breath. He held up the key and carefully looked at it before finally confirming that his theory was correct: “It is indeed so… My efforts were not in vain.”
This wasn’t something he had planned overnight; instead, it was set in motion a very long time ago. The Thousand Carp River, as an emperor lineage, and the Static Stream Country that ruled one direction both contained his shadow.
After putting away the key, he looked at the dead stump and the little green leaf that sprouted from it. He focused and then “boom,” his Fate Palaces opened as he uttered: “Today, I bestow a new life upon you. Follow me!”
The moment these words came out, a buzzing sound came about as the Pillar of Life inside his Fate Palace suddenly turned bright. Runes emerged on the pillar and turned into universal laws. Then, a series of orderly chains appeared and locked this dead stump.
Seeing these universal chains from Li Qiye’s Pillar of Life, the lady in blue was taken by surprise. These chains seemed to be able to build myriad worlds as if they were the basic laws of the three thousand worlds, as if they were able to turn into anything. She had never heard nor seen anything like this before.
In fact, not seeing something like this before wasn’t anything strange because these chains from Li Qiye’s Pillar of Life were refined from the Void Gate’s ancient runes, thus they had an unbelievable origin.
“Go!” With a loud cry, the dead stump was suddenly lifted up high by the universal chains. Its underground roots went far beyond anyone’s imagination. All of these old roots were so lush and long that it would make people think that they took root all over the Thousand Islands.
As this process was occurring, these roots didn’t seem to be dragged out by the chains. Instead, it was as if they were serpents emerging from the ground.
The universal chains carried a root into one of Li Qiye’s Fate Palaces. At this time, the four images of life inside his palace welcomed the arrival of this root as they bestowed their blessings on its body…
In a short period of time, the young green leaf that was growing on the dead stump became even more verdant as if it had obtained nourishment from the Tree of Life and Spring of Life.
“Not a bad harvest.” Li Qiye happily murmured after closing his Fate Palace and returning it to his Neigong meridian.
Even a knowledgeable person like the lady in blue was sent into a daze. She had seen many things before, but the events of today exceeded her comprehension.
Despite her great background, she didn’t know what any of these things were, let alone Li Qiye’s goal.
A critical step had finally been accomplished within his grand plan, so Li Qiye joyously patted his palms clean. This step meant that all of his previous foundations weren’t for naught.
“Little Girl, are you still interested in being my faded old woman for a bit longer?” Li Qiye glanced at the dazed lady in blue and said with a smile.
The lady came back to her senses and couldn’t help but ask: “Where do you want to go?”
Li Qiye narrowed his eyes as he looked at the vast ocean in the distance and replied: “Hard to say. Maybe I will go out to sea, or maybe I will make my way back to the mainland, but I will most likely go out to sea first. Do you want to broaden your horizons?”
Li Qiye rarely invited others, so this act was indicative of how he appreciated the lady in blue. Not everyone was qualified to stay by his side.
The lady in blue hesitated for a moment before finally shaking her head as she replied with a gentle smile: “Uncle, you go by yourself. I don’t want to cook for you anymore, I have to go back and cultivate!”
Li Qiye didn’t force her and nodded his head: “Very well. You have trained your Heaven’s Will Secret Law correctly. Keep trying and you will make great progress. After the current Heaven’s Will becomes stronger, you will have great achievements compared to others.”
While horrified, the lady in blue instinctively took a step back and gazed at Li Qiye with caution. She believed that Li Qiye didn’t recognize her, but he actually just disclosed her main cultivation method!
“Don’t be shocked!” Li Qiye shrugged and said: “There are very few laws in this world that I haven’t seen before. Even though a little girl like you hasn’t told me who you are, I can tell what you are cultivating with a single glance.”
Not to mention, her secret law was far too familiar to him. How could something that he knew so clearly escape his sight?
The lady thought that she hid her identity very well, but it was still not enough to elude Li Qiye’s eyes. Under his gaze, she felt the sensation of being completely exposed!
“Don’t look at me like that.” Li Qiye nonchalantly said: “If I bore ill intent towards you, you would have died countless times already. Of course, those who are malicious towards me will suffer an ugly death.” He finished with a serious countenance.
His narrowed eyes caused the lady in blue to feel the creeps. Although his appearance at this moment seemed to be harmless, her intuition told her that Li Qiye was filled with danger! It was as if he was a terrifying black hole, and none of his enemies could escape his grasp.
“Well then, let this be goodbye!” Li Qiye gently patted the lady’s cheek and smiled: “Don’t miss me too much, I am only a legend!”
The lady in blue stared at Li Qiye’s smile that invited a beating from others, so she felt like beating him up. This brat that didn’t know life from death actually dared to flirt with her!
In the end, she held back her anger and left without a care for Li Qiye.
However, at this time, Li Qiye’s teasing laughter rang: “Little Girl, even though you didn’t grow up to be extremely pretty, this Young Noble is very benevolent. If you miss me in the future, you can come back to my side. I can consider taking in a faded old woman like you any time.”
The lady in blue almost stumbled from rage as her chest intensely swayed up and down due to her uncontrollable anger.
She was not pretty enough?! This was too much; even though she didn’t care about her appearance, she was definitely on the forefront of the beauties list in the Sacred Nether World. How could this brat use these words to describe her without inciting her anger?
“Bah, egomaniac!” Eventually, she expelled some of her anger as she gritted her teeth and used her fastest speed to leave. If she stayed here any longer, maybe this brat would say some even more unflattering things.
After she left, Li Qiye couldn’t help but grin. He didn’t pay too much mind to the matters of the lady in blue.
He looked towards the far sea and pondered for a moment before deciding to leave. But first, he wanted to say goodbye to Lu Baiqiu.
In fact, he had a high evaluation of her. Although her talents were not peerless, they were not bad. The important part was that he enjoyed her attitude!
Although he didn’t need her assistance, after living at the Thousand Islands for so long, she did make it convenient for him.
He left his island and went to the Azure City.
The Azure City was built on the largest island, and it was also the largest city in the Thousand Islands as the main portal city of the Static Stream Country.
It was very bustling as many merchants would come to the Azure City for business. Although it was a bit lacking compared to the large inland cities, anything could be found here.
Humans made up the majority in this city, but there were quite a few demons, members of the blood race, and others entering the Azure City. Even some of the sea demons from the far oceans would come to the Azure City to trade.
The Region Lord held the greatest authority in this place, so her mansion had many guards. However, the reality was that, as the Region Lord, Lu Baiqiu was very popular in the Thousand Islands because she was very approachable. Not only did she take care of the human race, but also the other races. It could be said that her leadership skills were quite amazing.
She came from an ordinary background as a regular disciple of the Static Stream Country, but step by step and through putting in great efforts, she eventually became a Region Lord. It was a great feat that displayed her abilities.
She was not a genius, but her personal aptitudes were not bad. Not to mention, she trained very hard, which was why she became a lord at such a young age.
Chapter 390 - Corner of Mourning
This achievement was quite amazing for a disciple from an ordinary background in a regular country.
When Li Qiye went out to the edge of the Thousand Islands to see if Lu Baiqiu was there, a sea guard said: “Regional Lord Lu brought experts to fight out at sea!”
“Battle?” Li Qiye couldn’t help but grimace. The Thousand Islands faced the vast ocean, and although there were a few demons and sea demons out there, they all lived in the far sea and would not start a war against inlanders.
“Recently, the Mollusk Tribe has started a war!” The guard knew about Li Qiye, so he immediately explained: “They recently appeared in the waters right outside of the islands and stole our sea farms. In the last two to three months, a large amount of our sea jewels have been taken by them.”
There were many industries for the Thousand Islands since they were so near the sea, and the largest of them were the sea farms at the bottom of the ocean.
Sea jewels were a type of refined jade; although they could not completely replace refined jades, there were instances where it served as an acceptable substitute, especially in the Static Stream Country. The spirit energy contained inside these sea jewels was still a part of the worldly essence.
“Regional Lord Lu and many experts had forced the Mollusk Tribe back many times, but they appeared again yesterday, so the lord wanted to catch them all in one fell swoop.” This guard explained.
Right at this moment, Lu Baiqiu returned along with many wounded people that had to be carried back.
“Lord Lu?” Seeing her injury, the guard was alarmed and quickly went to greet her.
“I’m fine… go treat the others.” Lu Baiqiu was very decisive and ordered for the guards to bring the wounded back inside for treatment. Li Qiye looked at their wounds and also followed them inside.
After returning, Lu Baiqiu fortified the defensive perimeter and sent disciples to treat the injured with resolution befitting a general.
After dealing with everything, she finally found Li Qiye sitting silently in the main hall, so she immediately asked: “What prompted Dao Brother Li’s presence here?”
“Nothing.” Li Qiye said with a smile: “I planned to go out to sea so I’m here to say goodbye.”
“The sea?” Lu Baiqiu slightly furrowed her brows. Among all the girls Li Qiye knew, she was not the prettiest, but her short hair and valiant air had a remarkably cool charm.
Lu Baiqiu gently shook her head in response: “Dao Brother Li, I’m afraid the outer sea is not very stable right now due to the constant disruption of the Mollusk Tribe. Recently, it has gotten to the point of robberies. I think that it is better for you to wait until the storm passes before going out.”
Lu Baiqiu and Li Qiye didn’t have a deep connection, but she still looked out for him because he was part of the human race.
“Mollusk Tribe?” Li Qiye replied: “I know of them, the Mollusk Tribe is not a warmongering tribe among the sea demons. Plus, they are also very territorial and normally wouldn’t leave their ancestral ground, let alone come to the shore to plunder others.”
“That is the strange part!” Lu Baiqiu let out a wry smile and said: “It is too strange. We originally planned to ambush them at the Corner of Mourning, but I don’t know how they suddenly appeared right behind us. They even ambushed us instead.”
“Inside the Corner of Mourning is our Thousand Islands’ waters where a defensive perimeter has been set up. If they used a dao gate to teleport their warriors inside, then we would have found out right away. However, there were no signs of an ambush!” Lu Baiqiu continued on with a slightly bitter grimace: “I might have to report this to the capital since it is a bit odd!”
“Corner of Mourning?” Li Qiye squinted and then revealed a smile to say: “Where is the Mollusk Tribe right now?”
“After the ambush, they took the sea jewels from our farms and retreated. If Dao Brother Li doesn’t have anything else to say, then I have to take my leave for now.”
Li Qiye then answered with a smile: “I have a method for you to repel the Mollusk Tribe. But as for why they suddenly appeared inside the Corner of Mourning, you will understand when the time comes.”
“You have a way?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but to take another look at Li Qiye. In her eyes, Li Qiye was very normal, but this did not mean that she looked down on him. He had to be an ordinary disciple of some sect that came out to pick medicine, so his cultivation must be limited.
However, this sudden revelation of a method to defeat the Mollusk Tribe left Lu Baiqiu with some hesitation.
“The reason why the Mollusk Tribe appeared inside the corner without any warning is very simple. Your corner has a certain pathway.” Li Qiye explained.
“Pathway, what kind of pathway?” Lu Baiqiu expressed with some surprise.
Li Qiye continued on with a smile: “To the left of the corner, about one hundred meters down, is a trench with a lot of seagrass. If you pull the seagrass out, you will find a pathway underneath. Although it is only a hundred meters long, it can reach thousands of miles to other places in the ocean. If my hypothesis is correct, they must have come from this place. It is not difficult for you to defeat them if you set up an ambush right at this particular trench.”
“A one hundred meter pathway capable of extending a thousand miles to sea?” After hearing this, Lu Baiqiu was quite skeptical. How could she not be privy to this when it was part of the Thousand Islands’ territory?
“Just go and see for yourself!” Li Qiye noticed her skepticism and said with a smile.
She then looked at him again and couldn’t help but ask: “How do you know about this pathway?”
“That is a secret.” Li Qiye simpered while speaking: “If you don’t believe me, you can take people to check.”
How could he not know about this particular pathway? It was he who opened it in the past! He aimed to find another island undersea, so he opened many pathways in this region.
Later on, the search was unfruitful, so many pathways became destroyed and some were abandoned.
Lu Baiqiu remained wary as she looked at him. It was not because she didn’t believe him, but rather, this matter was a bit too sudden. If it was anyone else, they would be wondering if he was a spy sent by the enemy right now.
“Very well, I will stay at your port for a few days. Come tell me once you find something.” How could Li Qiye not see through her, thus prompting his response.
“Since Brother Li puts it this way, we’ll have to give it a try.” Lu Baiqiu nodded her head and said: “If Brother Li is willing to stay as a guest in our port, we will sincerely welcome you.” Having said that, she arranged for Li Qiye’s accommodation.
She didn’t make things difficult for Li Qiye and treated him like an esteemed guest.
And Li Qiye, on the other hand, didn’t pay it any mind as he leisurely strolled around in the port. He was not in a hurry to go out to sea.
Three days later, Lu Baiqiu excitedly came back. The moment she saw Li Qiye, she couldn’t help but to say with delight: “Brother Li is indeed magical and your prophecies are godlike. The Mollusk Tribe truly came from that pathway, so we had an ambush set up in the trench and completely defeated them in one blow. They might not be able to recover in a short period of time so they won’t dare to come and plunder us again.”
This was within Li Qiye’s expectations, so he simply smiled a bit and said: “Congratulations, Region Lord Lu. You have achieved a great merit for the Static Stream Country. Maybe you could even be promoted to a protector. With your future potential, maybe you could even take charge of the country in the future.”
“Brother Li is too kind!” Lu Baiqiu revealed a fresh and beautiful smile as she shook her head: “Talents are plentiful in our Static Stream Country, so it won’t be my turn to take charge!”
The hegemony of the Static Stream Country was not passed down from father to son. Instead, it was for those who were capable. Even till now, the throne of the country was handed to the disciple with the most contributions and the best cultivation.
“Now that Region Lord Lu has driven away the enemy, I must be going!” Li Qiye told Lu Baiqiu with a smile.
His assistance was simply to return her hospitality in the past.
“Brother Li is going out to sea…” Lu Baiqiu pondered for a moment before asking: “We discovered a few things during this battle. Brother Li is a very well-informed person, so maybe you can go take a look and dispel our confusion?”
“A discovery?” Li Qiye was a bit surprised.
Lu Baiqiu quickly added: “We captured a group of experts from the Mollusk Tribe alive and found out that they have found some old ruins. They were stealing our sea jewels because of these ruins. I have checked it out once, but I didn’t understand its mysteries.”
“Old ruins?” Li Qiye stroked his chin and cheerfully continued: “If this is the case, then I don’t mind going to check it out.”
Lu Baiqiu’s mind suddenly rang with excitement and immediately dealt with some administrative duties before leaving with Li Qiye to the sea.
She controlled a flying ship in the sky, heading for the ocean. In fact, these ruins found by the Mollusk Tribe were not far away from the Thousand Islands; they were only about one thousand miles apart.
With the flying ship, it was not long before they arrived.
The ruins were under the sea and inside a marina trench that had an architectural style that resembled an ancient temple.
This ancient temple had been under this sea for who knew how many generations; it remained eternal in this place.
It was once covered with a countless amount of seagrass, but now, it had been cleaned up.
“This place!” Li Qiye couldn’t help but stroke his chin after seeing this ancient temple because he had been to this place a long time ago.
Chapter 391 - Undersea Shrine
Back when Li Qiye was looking for another island and had no results despite having searched everywhere, he also found this ancient shrine under the sea. He once looked through it and thought that this shrine and the other island had something to do with each other, but he also felt that this shrine was lacking a certain something, so he gave up on researching it.
“A master from the Mollusk Tribe was passing through this area some time ago. A light suddenly shot upward so he went down to look and found this ancient shrine. Then, they found a gateway hidden below this area.” Lu Baiqiu reported.
“A gateway?” Having heard this, Li Qiye suddenly became serious and rushed into the ancient shrine like the wind.
Sure enough, there was a gateway floating inside the ancient shrine. However, during his investigations in the past, this gateway had not been there.
Li Qiye carefully observed this gateway. The other side contained a miniature continent that was as black as ink.
Li Qiye gently reached out to feel this gateway. He felt a fluctuation of space and murmured: “So this is the case, a dimensional banishment!”
His previous speculation of this shrine missing a certain key item was correct. This gateway was banished in the past.
“I learned from the Mollusk experts that there has always been a legend in their ocean, that there was a mythical island that was lost through time. It had been hidden in a divine shrine, and only when one could solve the secrets of this shrine would one be able to reach this island.” Lu Baiqiu said: “After the Mollusk Tribe found this ancient shrine, they immediately tried using refined jades to open this gateway to reach the lost mythical island. Unfortunately, they weren’t even close to having enough refined jades, so they had to plunder the sea jewels that we produced.”
She continued on: “When I came here, refined jades and sea jewels were abundant at this place, but it was still not enough to open the gateway.”
“How could it be so easy?” Li Qiye carefully looked at the gateway and responded: “The legend isn’t necessarily accurate. To be more specific, this is not a lost mythical island, but the hundredth island!”
“The hundredth island?” Lu Baiqiu was a bit perplexed as she asked: “What is this hundredth island?”
“The hundredth island of the Thousand Islands!” Li Qiye meticulously rubbed the gateway and felt the fluctuations of space as he continued: “Your Thousand Islands has a total of one hundred islands. Moreover, this hundredth island is far bigger than the other ninety-nine combined!”
“But, but this is only a legend!” The astounded Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but utter: “I have also heard of this legend, but no one had ever been able to find this island. Not to mention that if it was actually bigger than all the other ones combined, someone would have found it already.”
“There are a few things beyond one’s imagination!” Li Qiye asserted with a smile: “There are a few mysteries that one can never touch!”
With a changed expression, Lu Baiqiu looked at Li Qiye who was studying the gateway and hurriedly asked: “Can this gateway be opened?”
“That would depend on who is operating it!” Li Qiye withdrew his hand and chuckled: “In order to open this gateway, first, one must have Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades, and second, they must understand this gateway.”
“Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades!” Lu Baiqiu had to take in a calming breath. An item of this caliber was a huge sum even for the Static Stream Country, let alone her!
Li Qiye smiled and said: “This is only the beginning.” Then, piece after piece, he took out Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades and slowly inserted them into the gateway.
“Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades!” Lu Baiqiu was stunned with her mouth wide open after seeing Li Qiye take out multiple pieces. Even her country didn’t have that many, but now, Li Qiye freely took out so many!
Before, she assumed that he was an ordinary disciple of some sect, but even someone from a great power would not be able to take out so many Virtuous Paragon Refined Jades!
She felt a bit stupefied while looking at Li Qiye. At this moment, she understood that he was hiding his abilities like a murky mist, completely undetected by her.
“Open!” Li Qiye activated the refined jades that were embedded in a particular manner on the gateway. From his cry, the gateway emitted a bright radiance.
“Ka—ka—ka!” At this time, an amazing thing happened as the initially large gateway shrunk down to the size of a fist and fell into Li Qiye’s palm.
“Bang—bang—bang—” Suddenly, the entire area started to shake as the ancient shrine that stood strong for countless years began to crack.
“What happened!?” Lu Baiqiu became startled by the commotion and drew in a deep breath.
“Go!” Li Qiye shouted as he dragged Lu Baiqiu away. They immediately soared to the sky and escaped from the current in just the blink of an eye. The moment they got out, an unceasing mist covered the initially blue sky.
“What is going on?” The shrouding mist that covered the sea caused others to be disoriented. The moment Lu Baiqiu looked all around, she became quite shocked and pointed up ahead.
On the other side of the shrouding mist, there were majestic towering peaks that one would find on a continent.
“It is so!” Seeing the huge mountain range shrouded in mist, Li Qiye’s eyes narrowed as he murmured: “Truly unable to find the destination after wearing out iron soles, then inadvertently finding it without any effort.”
“Could this be the mythical lost island?” Lu Baiqiu uttered with emotion: “People say that this island buried all the treasures from immemorial deities. We need to go take a look!” Having said this, she intended to rush through the mist in order to reach this island!
“Don’t go!” Li Qiye quickly caught her and shook his head to say: “It is not so easy to get there. Take another look if you don’t believe me!” With that, he casually threw a rock with the speed of a meteor towards the island where it pierced through the mist.
However, the moment when it approached its destination, this huge rock suddenly disappeared.
Lu Baiqiu’s expression greatly changed after seeing the sudden disappearance of the rock. It was as if the rock was swallowed by a giant monster. At this time, the vast rolling mountains inside the mist were like a monster silently waiting with its maw open for wandering prey.
“What is this place!?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but utter.
Li Qiye smiled a bit and said with squinted eyes: “This is the hundredth island and also what you guys call the lost mythical island!”
After calming down, Lu Baiqiu gravely said: “I must return to the capital and report this to His Highness. What is your opinion on this matter?”
Li Qiye gazed towards the mountains in the mist and casually said: “You go, I will stay behind to think for a bit.”
Lu Baiqiu bade a fond goodbye to Li Qiye and then immediately returned while Li Qiye stayed behind to think about this mist. He knew that as long as he could pass through this misty layer, he would be able to get into the one hundredth island.
This place had many secrets that were purposely hidden from others. It dated back to a very old age, so it was not an easy matter to board this lost mythical island.
Li Qiye tried to get closer, but the result left him with a chilling sensation. The all-encompassing mist was like a ferocious beast; anyone who went close would suffer a horrific fate no matter how strong they were.
After pondering for several days, he understood that one must cross this layer in order to reach the island, but it was also a suicidal endeavor. This went on for a long time before he eventually smiled and left the sea to go back to the island where he used to live.
At this moment, he was not in a rush to reach the lost island. He was waiting for the right moment, waiting for other people to court their deaths. The layer of mist was a bloodthirsty monster. Only when it became satiated would one be able to reach the island; otherwise, it was an endeavor harder than reaching the heavens.
Thus, he was waiting for others to come. When the time was ripe, he would easily set foot on the lost island. He was also not afraid of the items that he wanted being taken by others since he was certain of victory. After all, he was the one holding the real key of the lost island. With this settled, Li Qiye leisurely stayed on his island and cultivated in peace.
A short time ago, Li Qiye created nine stars so he had reached the peak of Enlightened Beings.
In fact, creating seven stars already signified grand accomplishment Enlightened Being, but Li Qiye was able to create nine stars. This was a challenge to the limits of cultivators — to reach the apex of the Enlightened Being realm.
Back when Li Qiye was looking for another island and had no results despite having searched everywhere, he also found this ancient temple under the sea. He once looked through it and thought that this temple and the other island had something to do with each other, but he also felt that this temple was lacking a certain something, so he gave up on researching this temple.
“A master from the Mollusk Tribe was passing through this area some time ago. A light suddenly shot upward so he came down to look and found this ancient temple. Then, they found a gateway hidden below this sea.” Lu Baiqiu reported.
“A gateway?” Having heard this, Li Qiye suddenly became serious and rushed into the ancient temple like the wind.
Chapter 392 - Ancient Saint
In fact, to Li Qiye, creating nine stars at this realm was a matter of course. His dao foundation was firm; especially after the Worldly Prime Liquid tempered Li Qiye, his foundation became unshakable right after he opened the sixth palace.
For a Royal Noble, having six palaces carried great significance. It meant that their future path was paved for success.
This was Li Qiye’s attempt at challenging the limits — to reach the peak by using his solid foundation. During the battle at the Tiger’s Howl School, Li Qiye devoured all the worldly essence of the White Tiger Great Vein in order to accumulate enough energy to create the nine stars in an even more favorable condition.
Thus, after he reached Enlightened Being, creating nine stars was only a matter of time and determination. Li Qiye’s stalwart dao heart allowed him to tread forward no matter how arduous the path was. Even if other people thought that it was impossible to create nine stars, he remained with the most relaxed frame of mind as he challenged the limits, allowing him to complete this task with ease!
At the same time, there was only one chance to pluck the stars, so creating nine stars was especially important to Li Qiye. There were three chances to open Fate Palaces, but only one chance for plucking stars, thus this single opportunity became even more valuable.
In fact, for tens of millions of years, creating the eighth star was more difficult than opening the sixth Fate Palace.
The phrase “Nine Stars allowing for Eternal Prestige” was not just empty words. Since time immemorial, those with the title of Eternal Prestige were fewer than few. Nine stars did not just mean that the person had obtained a key to the Path of the Grand Era or the Path of the Heavens, it also meant they had created their own sky!
Having one’s own sky was a marvelous and unfathomable feat because the Ancient Saint realm was the last chance for any cultivator to open another palace.
If a Royal Noble stopped at the third palace, then once they reached Ancient Saint, they had the chance to open the fourth, the fifth, and so on and so forth…
Four palaces to form a domain, eight palaces to form a kingdom, twelve palaces to form the heavens! Since the start of time, every cultivator believed that having twelve palaces was the limit of cultivation.
In fact, this was not an unreasonable statement because those who had twelve palaces could be counted on one’s fingers. Even the majority of those who eventually became Immortal Emperors did not open twelve palaces.
The reality was that opening eight palaces was already quite amazing. Once one obtained eight palaces, it meant that the person would have the power of a kingdom. This meant that there was a large possibility for them to found a country and eventually be bestowed the title of a god! 1
As for nine palaces… This was a great restriction. Countless geniuses in the previous millions of years stopped at eight palaces, unable to open the ninth.
Because of this, there was a remark passed down from generation to generation: Nine deserves utmost veneration, ten strives for extreme perfection, eleven creates an immemorial miracle, and twelve decides the Immortal Emperor’s throne!
Achieving twelve Fate Palaces was essentially an impossible matter. There might be a sliver of hope for historical devilish geniuses to open eleven palaces, but any genius would have to give up on opening the twelfth.
However, being able to create nine stars at the Enlightened Being realm would indeed qualify one as a historical devilish genius, so there was still some hope of opening the twelfth.
Nine stars Eternal Prestige meant that one would have their own sky, and twelve palaces forming the heavens meant that having nine stars was a requirement to reach twelve Fate Palaces in the future! 2
Without a doubt, Li Qiye held the ambition of reaching twelve Fate Palaces; thus, after creating nine stars and reaching the Ancient Saint realm, he kept on solidifying his foundation one step at a time.
With his past achievements of six palaces and nine stars in their respective realms, he would be able to fiercely soar forward and create a miracle by becoming a Heavenly Sovereign — a true expert in a short amount of time. However, upon becoming an Ancient Saint, he slowed down again since his ambition was not limited to just becoming a sovereign.
His real goal was having twelve Fate Palaces, or even the mythical thirteen palaces! If he could succeed, then in the future, he could actually reach the real apex of the grand dao.
As he sat in the room, his blood energy circulated after being channeled by his Life Wheel. The newly refined Longevity Blood then flowed back into the Life Wheel with a surging radiance.
At this time, the six palaces above Li Qiye’s head floated up and down and turned into a domain. The worldly essence caused the domain to be filled with primordial chaos and vitality as if it was gestating millions of existences!
The nine stars surrounding Li Qiye created a sky that loomed above Li Qiye as if he had been removed from the outside world and isolated in a different one.
A heavenly beam shot up into the sky as if it wanted to communicate with the heavens and inquire about the heavenly dao. From another perspective, this beam seemed to be talking to the gods of this world. Nevertheless, this beam caused Li Qiye to appear sacred; it was as if he was the high heaven’s favored child or the son of the earth.
This heavenly beam of light was formed from Li Qiye’s cultivation of the Daylight Sky Immortal Secret. The moment it connected to the heaven and earth, it allowed for Li Qiye to become one with the grand dao as his body was immersed inside the path.
These secret laws were powerful and mysterious, but their power was not just limited to the battlefield. Compared to other powerful techniques, Heaven’s Will Secret Laws didn’t seem to be worthy of their fame while the Heaven’s Will was still in its infancy stages.
However, once the Heaven’s Will of a generation slowly manifested to its grand stage, the advantages of these secret laws would finally show themselves.
In this instant, Li Qiye’s Neigong meridian continuously rumbled as if something wanted to climb out from the earth.
This was Li Qiye trying to open his seventh palace. Of course, opening a palace was a long and arduous process.
There were three stages in the Ancient Saint realm. From beginning to end, the stages are Palace Opening, Domain Formation, and City Creation!
To an ordinary cultivator with only three palaces, they just needed to open the fourth to reach the Ancient Saint realm.
Four palaces form a domain, so in the Ancient Saint realm, one would need to turn these four palaces into a domain, then turn this domain into a city.
For Li Qiye who had six palaces that had turned into cities capable of supporting existences, he could directly surpass grand accomplishment Ancient Saint and reach Heavenly Sovereign right away!
However, Li Qiye did not do so. He stopped at the Ancient Saint realm in order to fortify his foundation and absorb worldly essence to continuously strengthen his True Fate to open the seventh palace…
Ancient Saints also had three levels: Little Saint, Young Saint, and Grand Saint. However, Li Qiye was not part of this classification because opening the fourth palace was the beginning of this realm.
A five palace saint is a Heaven Restoration Saint because a Royal Noble with four palaces is called a Heavenly Noble, so an Ancient Saint with five palaces was only making up for what they were lacking back in the Royal Noble realm.
A six palace saint is called a Dao Restoration Saint due to the same principle of catching-up as the previous title.
The moment one opened the seventh palace, they would be called a Heavenly Saint. This was the real starting point of Ancient Saints, just like the fourth palace of the Royal Noble realm.
Those who opened the eighth palace were called Grand Dao Saints, and those with nine were called Pinnacle Saints.
Having nine palaces was the limit of Ancient Saints, just like how having six palaces was the limit of Royal Nobles.
Within this realm, a person with nine palaces could directly suppress others of the same level. It did not matter how strong the opponent’s cultivation was, as long as they didn’t have nine Fate Palaces, they would suffer a direct suppression.
This was the reason why Bing Yuxia could be so proud with her nine palaces. Even Deity Jikong Wudi and Goddess Mei Suyao had to be wary of her.
As a Pinnacle Saint, she was a tyrant amongst all saints. It didn’t matter which merit laws other saints cultivated since they were directly pressured by her palaces!
At this time, Li Qiye’s blood energy soared like a magnificent rainbow as his Neigong meridian resounded with thunderous explosions, signaling the opening of the seventh palace. Li Qiye had absolute confidence that obtaining nine palaces was not a challenge to him, and even opening twelve palaces was not a test. His real ordeal was the mythical thirteenth palace!
With a thunderous rumble, Li Qiye’s Hell Suppressing Inner Physique suddenly disappeared while the second Inner Physique was also quivering.
The trembling second Inner Physique was shaking as if an immortal existence was gently shaking its wings, stagnating the flow of time so that one flap of these wings would allow for Li Qiye to escape the temporal restriction!
The Soaring Immortal Physique was the second Inner Physique that Li Qiye wished to cultivate.
For others, cultivating two Immortal Physiques was impossible, but not for Li Qiye. At this moment, his Hell Suppressing Godly Physique was at minor completion and was still a long ways off from grand completion.
So at this time, he slowed down the cultivation of the Hell Suppressing Godly Physique and spent more energy and time on the second physique instead.
In fact, to Li Qiye, creating nine stars at this realm was a matter of course. His dao foundation was firm; especially after the Worldly Prime Liquid tempered himself, his foundation became unshakable right after Li Qiye opened the sixth palace.
For a Royal Noble, six palaces carried great significance. It meant that their future path was paved for success.
This was Li Qiye’s attempt at challenging the limits to reach the peak by using his solid foundation. During the battle at the Tiger’s Howl School, Li Qiye devoured all the worldly essence of the White Tiger Great Vein in order to accumulate enough energy to create the nine stars in an even more favorable condition.
Thus, after he reached Enlightened Being, creating nine stars was only a matter of time and determination. Li Qiye’s stalwart dao heart allowed him to tread forward no matter how arduous the path was. Even if other people thought that it was impossible to create nine stars, he remained with the most relaxed frame of mind as he challenged the limits, allowing him to complete this task with ease!
Chapter 393 - Don’t Provoke Me
The Soaring Immortal Physique was no worse than any other Immortal Physique! Once successfully cultivated, it allowed its user to have unmatched speed.
Once one’s speed was invincible, treasures and techniques would no longer be important because if the opponent could never catch up to their speed, then the enemy would be killed before even having the chance to make a move.
Once this physique reached grand completion, it could pass through any spatial fabric or even stop time itself! Imagine how frightening a person with unparalleled speed would be, then imagine how much more terrifying a time-stopper would be!
This was why once a person reached grand completion with the Soaring Immortal Physique, essentially, no one in this world would be able to kill him. Someone once commented that only time would be able to kill a grand completion Soaring Immortal Physique user.
Li Qiye had his own reasons for picking the Soaring Immortal Physique. The Hell Suppressing Godly Physique could destroy all things, but it had one weakness — its lack of speed.
Currently, his Hell Suppressing Godly Physique’s speed relied on the Kun Peng’s Six Variants. Although this allowed him to reach sufficient speeds, it was far from enough for Li Qiye since he desired an unbeatable speed.
Imagine the heaviest body plus the fastest speed, what would be the result? This meant that Li Qiye’s body would become the most powerful weapon, which was why he chose the Soaring Immortal Physique!
The Soaring Immortal Inner Physique shook once more as time seemed to become slower around Li Qiye’s body. With gentle waves of buzzing sounds creating a melody that came from Li Qiye’s Neigong meridian, Li Qiye was immersed inside…
“The lost island!” In the capital, the Static Stream Lord sat on his draconic throne and pondered after hearing the report from Lu Baiqiu, who had just rushed here from the Thousand Islands.
“Your Majesty, the lost mythical island is but a legend!” At this time, a young man inside the imperial court spoke. With high spirits, he spoke in a dignified manner without attempting to hide his Royal Noble cultivation. It was as if his cultivation realm was a reason for pride.
He quickly added: “Our Static Stream Country is a great nation, so how could we randomly take action just because of a baseless legend?”
“Xuan Shaojun, the mythical island is out there right now so how could it be baseless!” Lu Baiqiu immediately retorted with a grave voice.
The young man snorted and said: “That is not for certain. Fog on the sea is a common occurrence, so maybe Region Lord Lu had blurry vision. If His Majesty takes a trip for this matter and it turned out to only be ordinary fog, then wouldn’t this be a waste of effort? Hah, then wouldn’t some say that Region Lord Lu exaggerated the matter just to gain some contributory merits?”
This young man’s name was Xuan Shaojun, a rare genius of the Static Stream Country. He had reached Royal Noble one year ago and became one of the few potential king candidates among the younger generation.
He had always viewed Lu Baiqiu as a powerful opponent. Although Lu Baiqiu had been at grand accomplishment Named Hero for the last two years and was very close to Royal Noble, she had contributed a lot more despite her weaker cultivation. Moreover, Lu Baiqiu’s fame in the country was great, and its elders all believed that she could handle the great responsibility.
Because of this, Xuan Shaojun had always viewed her as his strongest rival and opposed her every opportunity he could.
“You!” Lu Baiqiu’s expression sank after hearing his words.
At this time, the Static Stream Lord gently waved his hand to interrupt their quarrel and said: “It is better to believe this as opposed to ignoring it. Although the lost island had always been a legend, it is said to be left behind by True Gods of an ancient era, hiding great secrets! If there is even a sliver of a chance, then we should let the Imperial Advisor go take a look.”
“Understood!” An old man stood up and accepted the order.
***
Li Qiye did nothing except train while he stayed on his small island. However, there was a guest today — Lu Baiqiu.
“Dao Brother Li, this is our Static Stream Imperial Advisor.” Lu Baiqiu introduced the old man standing next to her. Besides the advisor, there were other masters from the country.
“Our Imperial Advisor wants to know about the lost mythical island.” Lu Baiqiu hurriedly explained.
The advisor took a quick look at Li Qiye and found that he was completely ordinary without any outstanding characteristics. Although Lu Baiqiu had told him that Li Qiye was special, in his eyes, this was only due to Lu Baiqiu’s lack of knowledge.
In reality, after the Worldly Prime Liquid refined Li Qiye’s body, how could a mere Imperial Advisor from the Static Stream Country see through him?
In the advisor’s mind, Li Qiye was only a common cultivator while he was the Imperial Advisor of the Static Stream Country — a Grand Saint with a powerful cultivation. Someone like Li Qiye really had no chance of entering his sight.
“I heard from Baiqiu that you were the first one to find the lost island. Tell me what you saw!” The Imperial Advisor spoke with a deep tone.
Li Qiye looked at him and flatly replied: “The lost mythical island isn’t something your Static Stream Country can venture into. It is better for all of you to go back and pretend as if you didn’t see it.”
“How presumptuous!” Before the advisor could say anything, the young man right next to him darted out and contemptuously yelled at Li Qiye: “Ignorant junior! Daring to look down on my Static Stream Country… Are you tired of living!?”
The young man who darted out was Xuan Shaojun. He came along with the Imperial Advisor to find an opportunity to make a great contribution, and Li Qiye’s words just now created an opportunity that he immediately latched onto.
Lu Baiqiu’s expression quickly changed. Li Qiye was her friend and Xuan Shaojun’s words were too out of line!
“Boom!” Li Qiye didn’t bother to look at Xuan Shaojun. He simply flicked his finger and immediately blew Xuan Shaojun away. With a flop, Xuan Shaojun suddenly fell into the ocean. Completely enraged, he wanted to rush back up, but a giant hand suddenly slammed down on him. It pressed him all the way down to the ocean floor, not allowing him to climb back up.
“Don’t hurt him!” All of the other experts who came along with the Imperial Advisor shouted and suddenly pounced on Li Qiye.
Li Qiye remained motionless. With a bang, all the attacking experts were knocked flying by Li Qiye as they spewed out blood.
“Little Friend, the Static Stream Country isn’t a place where you can act as you please!” With some shock, the Imperial Advisor’s Grand Saint aura suddenly surged as he took out his fate weapon to attack.
Li Qiye’s body suddenly shifted with a flash. “Bang!” Before the Imperial Advisor could figure out what was going on, blood had already sprayed everywhere as he was also blown away. Before his body could fall to the ground, Li Qiye gripped him by the neck in the air.
“You…” Suddenly aghast, the Imperial Advisor wanted to speak, but Li Qiye clamped down. The sound of broken bones rang. The Imperial Advisor couldn’t breathe anymore as his body became immobilized. He now had a complexion as pale as snow.
“Dao Brother Li, please show mercy!” Lu Baiqiu was also deathly pale after the sudden turn of events. When she heard the noise of bones breaking, she quickly pleaded.
Although the group of Xuan Shaojun acted out of line, in the end, they were still part of the Static Stream Country, so Lu Baiqiu couldn’t idly stand by.
Li Qiye casually threw the Imperial Advisor to the ground. Like a dead snake lying on the floor, the pale advisor struggled to finally take a single breath.
Li Qiye didn’t bother to look at him and said: “Because of Region Lord Lu, I will spare your lives today! Next time, if you dare to clown around in front of me, do not blame me for not being considerate towards Region Lord Lu.”
The Imperial Advisor was an experienced person. As a Grand Saint, he couldn’t even withstand one blow before being subdued by the enemy. Just how frightening was this person!? If it wasn’t for Lu Baiqiu’s pleading, ten lives still wouldn’t have been enough for him.
After thinking about the consequences, the Imperial Advisor felt a chill as cold chills ran through his palms. He took a deep breath and didn’t dare to linger for a second longer. He carried the other wounded disciples and left. They also struggled to dig up Xuan Shaojun, who was suppressed on the ocean floor.
“Dao Brother Li, I didn’t expect for this to happen!” Before leaving, Lu Baiqiu awkwardly smiled and apologized.
“It is fine, this had nothing to do with you.” Li Qiye gently motioned with his hand and said: “Go back and tell your Royal Lord that it is better not to provoke me, lest I destroy your Static Stream Country!”
These words astounded Lu Baiqiu, sending a shiver down her spine. His first warning was a threat about destroying a country, how tyrannical and arrogant was this!
But after thinking about how their Imperial Advisor was quelled after just a single move by Li Qiye, she didn’t think that Li Qiye was simply blustering! It seemed that Li Qiye was even more terrifying than she had imagined.
In the end, Lu Baiqiu deeply bowed to Li Qiye and then turned around to leave.
“What—?” After the Imperial Advisor’s group came back, the Royal Lord couldn’t help but become enraged after hearing the report as he emotionally said: “Even the Imperial Advisor is not his match!”
“Your Majesty, it is truly shameful, but I have to admit that I couldn’t withstand a single blow. I couldn’t even recognize his background!” The Imperial Advisor quickly responded.
Despite being defeated by just one blow, the Imperial Advisor didn’t dare to bear any resentment. He had experienced many waves and storms, so he knew that there were a few existences in this world that he could not provoke!
“Region Lord Lu, just what is this Li Qiye’s identity?” The Imperial Advisor asked with severity.
Lu Baiqiu shook her head and said: “Your Majesty, I don’t know anything about his background. I only met him by chance, and it was with his advice that I was able to defeat the Mollusk Tribe.”
“Hah, Region Lord Lu, you are so close with that Li fella but you actually don’t know his identity? Who would actually trust your words?” The injured Xuan Shaojun spoke with a strange undertone.
Chapter 394 - Suppressing A King With One Hand
He was quite resentful after being put down at the bottom of the sea by Li Qiye. A genius like him being suppressed by an unknown junior was an extremely shameful matter!
“Such a master… I actually want to personally witness his strength!” The Static Stream Royal Lord’s gaze became fierce as he spoke with austerity. Having said that, divine rings emanated from his body. Without a doubt, the Royal Lord was a powerful Heavenly Sovereign.
“Your Majesty, you shouldn’t!” Lu Baiqiu became aghast after hearing this and quickly spoke: “Brother Li is only here for the mythical island and not to oppose our Static Stream Country…”
“Ah, Region Lord Lu, what do you mean by that?” Xuan Shaojun sneered: “Hurting our disciples and shaming our Imperial Advisor — how is this not opposing our Static Stream Country? His Majesty is invincible, so what can a little junior do? Could it be that Region Lord Lu is on the same side as that Li guy and wants to collude with the enemy…?”
“You—” Lu Baiqiu was angered, but she endured it and tried to persuade the Royal Lord: “Your Majesty, in my opinion, Brother Li is not here to harm our Static Stream Country. Why don’t we take a step back and all shall be well.” Lu Baiqiu trusted that Li Qiye was not joking around. If the country actually provoked him, then he might kill his way into the Static Stream Country.
“Your Majesty, I also feel that Region Lord Lu’s words make a lot of sense. This conflict was due to my rash conduct!” The Imperial Advisor quickly said: “If he was really antagonistic towards us, then he wouldn’t have let us go. In my opinion, he must have a heaven-frightening origin, so there is no need to compete with him and court a powerful enemy!”
“No matter what, I still want to go and see for myself.” The Royal Lord gravely spoke: “A powerful master like this appearing in our country… How could anyone be at ease if we don’t know his identity?”
Lu Baiqiu became quite anxious after hearing the Royal Lord’s words. She didn’t wish to see the country in conflict with Li Qiye because she trusted that Li Qiye was not a person who liked to joke around!
“Bang—bang—” Countless people were alarmed as a battle chariot flew over the Thousand Islands. When the young cultivators of the Thousand Islands saw the several thousand armored soldiers in the sky, they couldn’t help but become wary.
“What happened? The Royal Lord himself is venturing out!” Seeing the Royal Lord riding his dragon chariot, many cultivators turned pale. The Royal Lord was a great Heavenly Sovereign and rarely showed himself outside of huge events.
Thus, it was a big deal for the Royal Lord to travel in person, and it alarmed many spectating cultivators.
In the blink of an eye, thousands of Static Stream experts quickly surrounded the island inhabited by Li Qiye.
Lu Baiqiu’s heart was quite heavy, but she still wanted for her country to negotiate with Li Qiye so she quickly said to the Royal Lord: “Your Majesty, could this disciple invite Brother Li here for a talk?”
“Hah, Region Lord Lu, you are friends with that Li person, so who knows if you will be informing him or not? If that Li person escapes, then will you be able to bear the responsibility? Region Lord Lu, I only want what’s best for you, treason is not a small crime!” Xuan Shaojun alleged.
Lu Baiqiu’s expression greatly changed with anger after being accused by Xuan Shaojun like this; she couldn’t help but coldly say: “You would indeed say just about anything to frame someone!”
“I only want what’s best for Region Lord Lu. If you are devoted to our country, then you should step aside to avoid arousing suspicion.” Xuan Shaojun commented: “Royal Lord, let me go tell that Li guy to come out!”
“Go, ask him to come and see me.” The Royal Lord sat on his dragon carriage with an overbearing sense of nobility. This was not an act of disdain; after all, as an expert who had basked in prestige for a long time, he was indeed qualified to act like this.
Lu Baiqiu gently sighed. It seemed that this storm would not pass by very easily. She did not wish for this feud, but alas, she had absolutely no say in this matter.
After Xuan Shaojun received the order, he appeared above Li Qiye’s island and shouted: “Li, quickly come and greet His Majesty!”
Li Qiye, who was sitting on the small island, only gave a passing glance and, with a poof, Xuan Shaojun didn’t even have the chance to scream before being rendered into a bloody mist under one flick of a finger.
This sudden development jolted the accompanying Static Stream experts. Xuan Shaojun, who was the most promising genius of their Static Stream Country, was killed by someone in this manner.
“Junior, you are insane!” The Royal Lord was appalled as he stood up with his divine rings expanding from his body; there was a total of seven rings!
Amidst his rage, a shadow suddenly flashed as Li Qiye stood right before him. He moved with an extreme speed that could not be followed by anyone else.
“Protect our king!” The Imperial Advisor screamed out in shock.
In an instant, the experts around the Royal Lord all cried out at the same time and many weapons aimed for Li Qiye’s head. There were pagodas, divine blades, and swords crafted from sacrificing one’s blood. They all continuously emitted explosive detonations.
Such an offensive didn’t even make Li Qiye bat his eyelid a single time. He swung his arm downward and, with a loud bang, none of the attacking treasures could stop Li Qiye’s invincible physique and were immediately shattered. The incoming experts’ blood was spilled as they were blown away.
“Watch yourself!” The Static Stream Royal Lord became angry as each divine ring opened up a wave of grand dao, carrying a majestic force that rushed forward.
“You’re just a Little Sovereign without a complete nine rings, yet you still dare to attack me!” Li Qiye was as calm as ever as he exuded an emperor’s power. A Kun Peng flew to the sky and followed Li Qiye step by step. This Primordial Kun Peng leaped and created an enormous tidal wave that was sent towards the Royal Lord.
Kun Peng’s Six Variants — Sea Transformation! When this Primordial Kun Peng flapped its wings, all of the skies became an ocean with gigantic surging waves that were capable of drowning the stars.
“Bang!” Even though the Royal Lord was a Little Sovereign, he couldn’t help but take several thumping steps back under such a sweeping emperor law. The lights in his divine rings suddenly became dim; his blood energy was unstable after this strike from Li Qiye, causing him to turn pale.
Li Qiye was an Ancient Saint with six palaces and nine stars and he also cultivated emperor laws. How could a Little Sovereign like the Static Stream Royal Lord compete with him?
Li Qiye’s gaze turned cold as he emotionlessly spoke: “Continuing to provoke me time and time again… Your ancestors’ face is no longer enough! If I don’t kill you all, then people would really think that I am easily bullied.” 1
Having said this, his five fingers stretched outward as they encompassed the Royal Lord like the heavens itself.
“Brother Li, please wait!” The frightened Lu Baiqiu quickly rushed forward and stood in front of the Royal Lord as she urgently begged: “Brother Li, our Static Stream Country doesn’t have any animosity towards you, it was only a misunderstanding.”
When Lu Baiqiu stood and blocked the front, Li Qiye paused for a moment and looked at Lu Baiqiu. Then, he withdrew his heaven-like fingers before dismissively speaking: “Region Lord Lu, there are times when your face alone is insufficient!”
Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but wryly smile. As a disciple of the Static Stream Country, she couldn’t just stand there and watch Li Qiye massacre its people. She then quickly spoke: “Our Royal Lord only wanted to speak to Brother Li about the lost island. There was a misunderstanding; I hope that Brother Li can forgive us.”
At this time, the Royal Lord had a shocked countenance. He saw the Kun Peng above Li Qiye’s head and took in a deep breath. The emperor aura soaring in the sky caused him to realize that he had kicked a steel wall. Since the person cultivated an emperor law, without a doubt, he was from an Immortal Emperor lineage. Their Static Stream Country could not afford to provoke such a lineage.
“Which emperor’s sect is Fellow Daoist from?” The Royal Lord inquired while shivering inside. He couldn’t do anything but bend down. A Grand Sovereign was far from enough to mess with an Immortal Emperor lineage, let alone a Little Sovereign like him.
Li Qiye glanced at the Royal Lord and said: “Out of respect for Region Lord Lu, I shall let go of this matter this time! You can go and meet me on the island with Region Lord Lu alone!” With that, he turned around and quickly disappeared as he headed towards his island.
Many of the accompanying experts were shocked at Li Qiye’s tone when he addressed the ruler of a country.
“Region Lord Lu, follow me to the island!” The Royal Lord took a deep breath. As a Royal Lord, he couldn’t help but consider himself superior at times. However, he was also an experienced man and knew when to back down!
“Your Majesty!” Many experts were alarmed when they heard that the Royal Lord wanted to go to the island by himself and wished to become the vanguard, but the Royal Lord stopped them with a wave of his hand: “Even if all of you come along, it would only end in even more meaningless deaths. Wait here!”
When a Little Sovereign like him was insufficient, other experts would just be giving up their lives trying to oppose Li Qiye.
After the Royal Lord entered the island, the other experts went into a battle-ready formation. As long as there was any sign from within, they would immediately rush in for the rescue.
Li Qiye was sitting directly on the island. The moment the Royal Lord saw him, he calmed himself and bowed down towards Li Qiye with a slightly submissive attitude and said: “This time, my Static Stream Country only wanted to ask about the matter of the lost island. I didn’t expect for such a misunderstanding to occur, truly unfortunate.”
The Royal Lord was a smart man. All the old cultivators like him were as wily as devils and knew the right time for small sects like them to acquiesce.
In his eyes, Li Qiye came from an Immortal Emperor lineage, a monstrous existence that his country could not afford to deal with. Moreover, Li Qiye’s strength was clearly enough to defeat a Heavenly Sovereign.
This why was the Royal Lord first chose to admit his faults in order to ease the atmosphere between them.
He was quite resentful after being put down at the bottom of the sea by Li Qiye. A genius like him being suppressed by an unknown junior was an extremely shameful matter!
“Such a master… I actually want to personally witness his strength!” The Static Stream Royal Lord’s gaze became fierce as he spoke with austerity. Having said that, divine rings emanated from his body. Without a doubt, the Royal Lord was a powerful Heavenly Sovereign.
“Your Majesty, you shouldn’t!” Lu Baiqiu became aghast after hearing this and quickly spoke: “Brother Li is only here for the mythical island and not to oppose our Static Stream Country…”
“Ah, Region Lord Lu, what do you mean by that?” Xuan Shaojun sneered: “Hurting our disciples and shaming our Imperial Advisor — how is this not opposing our Static Stream Country? His Majesty is invincible, so what can a little junior do? Could it be that Region Lord Lu is on the same side as that Li guy and wants to collude with the enemy…?”
Chapter 395 - Beginning Of The Storm
In fact, the Static Stream Royal Lord did not mean to start a feud with Li Qiye in the beginning; however, as a Royal Lord, he couldn’t help but act a bit imperiously. He didn’t expect for Li Qiye to be so ruthless as to immediately kill someone at the first sign of discord.
The Royal Lord became even more wary towards such a ruthless man since when a person of this type took action, they held no reservations!
Li Qiye looked at the lord and said: “Forget it. You seem like a reasonable person with a sense of propriety, so I won’t make it difficult for you.”
The Royal Lord sighed in relief after hearing these words. He was a bit regretful of listening to Xuan Shaojun’s urging instead of Lu Baiqiu’s advice; otherwise, this troublesome matter wouldn’t have happened.
“This time, I came to inquire about the lost island. I heard Region Lord Lu say that the lost island was found by you, I wonder if you can tell me a thing or two about it?” The Royal Lord quickly said. 1
Li Qiye gently shook his head in response: “The lost island isn’t something your Static Stream Country can handle. Without caution, it will attract a sect-destroying calamity.”
Having heard Li Qiye, the Royal Lord became disappointed, but he didn’t dare to force the issue.
“However…” Li Qiye gave him a look and suddenly had an idea, so he added: “Very well, you can help me with something. Your Static Stream Country does not need to get involved in this affair, and if there is something good in the future, I will give you a bit of the spoils.”
“What kind of something?” The Royal Lord’s mind shook a bit after hearing this. It was naturally a good thing if the Static Stream Country could have a good relationship with an Immortal Emperor lineage.
Although the Static Stream Country was attached to the Thousand Carp River, there were many tributary sects like them in the Distant Cloud region. Moreover, their country was far to the south of the Thousand Carp River, so the sect did not value their country very much. Now, if they could befriend another emperor’s lineage, it would be a beneficial endeavor.
“What you need to do is very simple; spread the news about the lost island, and that an immortal medicine of the island had been unearthed. The miracle of the Legendary Era will come!” Li Qiye said with a smile.
“Unearthed an immortal medicine?” The Royal Lord was astounded after hearing such words.
“Go, there will be benefits for you in the future!” Li Qiye gently motioned with his hand.
The Royal Lord stood up and bowed his head towards Li Qiye, then he turned to leave with Lu Baiqiu. But at this time, Li Qiye spoke: “Region Lord Lu, stay here.”
“Me?” Region Lord Lu was a bit startled as she looked at Li Qiye, then the Royal Lord.
Li Qiye nodded and said: “You are worthy of my grooming. If you are willing to stay, I shall grant you a new fortune in the future.”
Hearing this, the Royal Lord was ecstatic and quickly told Lu Baiqiu: “Region Lord Lu, you can stay behind and be in charge of communications!”
He wanted to befriend Li Qiye. If Lu Baiqiu could join an Immortal Emperor lineage in the future, then it would be absolutely amazing for their Static Stream Country.
Lu Baiqiu looked at the two of them again, then she finally nodded her head to say: “Since Your Majesty says so, I shall stay behind.”
Immediately after, the Royal Lord said a few words to Lu Baiqiu and then left with the others.
After he left, Lu Baiqiu sat to the side of Li Qiye. She took another look at him and couldn’t help but ask: “Which Immortal Emperor lineage is Brother Li from?”
During their first encounter, she thought that Li Qiye was either a vagrant cultivator or someone who came from a small sect, but this was certainly not the case now.
Regarding the speculations of the Royal Lord and Lu Baiqiu, Li Qiye couldn’t refrain from smiling and shook his head: “Is which Immortal Emperor lineage I come from really that important?”
Lu Baiqiu was still curious and started to guess: “There are only two Immortal Emperor lineages that take in humans at the Distant Cloud — the Thousand Carp River and the Simple Mountain Immortal Kingdom. If Brother Li came from the river, then we should have heard of your famous name, so Brother Li must have come from the Simple Mountain Immortal Kingdom…?”
“No to both.” Li Qiye gently shook his head and said: “These things are not important to you. The most pertinent matter is to let go of your restrictions and focus on cultivation; this is the thing that you should do.”
“Brother Li wants to teach me cultivation?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but jokingly ask: “I wonder what creation you will be able to grant me?”
Although Lu Baiqiu was usually stoic, she sometimes couldn’t help but brim with vivacity as a girl.
“That will depend on what you choose.” Li Qiye looked at her and said with a smile: “If you choose to stay by my side, then I will give you quite an excellent creation. If you choose to stay at the Static Stream Country, then I will point you to a particular dao path.”
Li Qiye indeed had thoughts of training Lu Baiqiu. Compared to the girls by his side, Lu Baiqiu’s talents were indeed too ordinary. She could not compare to Li Shuangyan and was even weaker than Chi Xiaodie.
However, Li Qiye fancied her attitude; she was someone with an open mind, someone who was capable, sensible, and a true cultivator.
“Could it be that Brother Li will introduce me to your sect?” Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but reply with a smile: “Even if I enter your sect, I’m afraid my future accomplishments will not be any better than in the Static Stream Country.”
Coming from an ordinary background, Lu Baiqiu knew herself very well. Her talents could not compare to the other geniuses. If she entered a different sect, then she would have to start from the beginning. Moreover, she would not be greatly valued in a new sect with her aptitude.
Rankings were extremely strict in an Immortal Emperor lineage. If a disciple was not valued, they would not be able to cultivate emperor laws or have access to more resources.
“There is no need for that.” Li Qiye smilingly said: “Right now, I am missing a driver. If you are willing to stay, then you can control my carriage for me.”
“Brother Li, this joke isn’t funny.” Lu Baiqiu was taken aback, then she shook her head to say. Although Lu Baiqiu was someone with a broad mind, such words still made her feel uncomfortable.
Although she knew that she was not a genius, her future in the Static Stream Country was not bad, so she still had confidence in herself. But now, Li Qiye wanted her to be a driver, something no one would want to do. If Lu Baiqiu wasn’t so tolerant, then she would have been stricken with anger thinking that Li Qiye wanted to humiliate her.
Li Qiye looked at her and calmly spoke: “Don’t think that controlling my carriage for me is dishonorable. Not too many people in the Nine Worlds are qualified to control my carriage! If it is someone I don’t like, then even if their talents were better or they came from an amazing background, they still wouldn’t be eligible to be my driver.”
Li Qiye was not bragging. Since ancient times, the moment his carriage appeared, all gods retreated and Immortal Emperors had to welcome him! And his drivers were Virtuous Paragons capable of forming their own countries!
Lu Baiqiu became astounded. Such nonchalant words from Li Qiye carried an indescribable confidence as if it was part of the natural order. If these words came from someone else, then she would have thought that they were nonsensically blustering, but Li Qiye’s speech seemed to dictate that this was how it should be.
After calming down, Lu Baiqiu’s pretty eyes blinked as she smiled: “Even if I am willing to drive for you, do you have a carriage?” Finished speaking, she intentionally looked at Li Qiye as if asking where his carriage was.
Lu Baiqiu was a valiant and straightforward girl. Her slight smile was a refreshing scene and it was indeed a bit charming.
“There will be a carriage.” Li Qiye leisurely said: “Think about it carefully, this opportunity is quite rare.”
Li Qiye’s tone left Lu Baiqiu in deep thought. If other people offered her a driving position and then told her to think about it carefully, she would have thought that they were insane, but Li Qiye’s words caused her to really think it through in silence.
Due to the Static Stream Country deliberately spreading the news, the information about the lost islands quickly traversed the Distant Cloud and then to all the other three regions.
“Lost mythical island? Isn’t it only a legend?” After hearing about the island’s appearance, many cultivators from the great powers were skeptical.
However, the great powers who were close to the Static Stream Country quickly sent scouts and really found the divine island lost inside the mist in the ocean.
Not long later, many great powers confirmed its appearance, and the skeptics began to believe this matter.
In a short amount of time, internal discussions were rampant inside these great powers. Some sects especially convened meetings to discuss the lost island.
“The mythical island is only a legend and no one had ever found it since the start of time, but it suddenly appeared now without any prior indication… This is a bit too strange.” Many great characters wished to wait and see.
A different sect master said: “Rumor has it that this lost island has existed since the Legendary Era, but no one knows what the place actually contains.”
Especially when masters who wanted to cross the sea mist to enter the islands were devoured, many sects adopted a wait-and-see attitude instead.
However, the next message made many people unable to sit still in their chairs. A message with unknown origin suddenly declared that immortal medicines had appeared on the lost island.
Chapter 396 - A Fiance Out Of Nowhere
“Immortal medicines appeared—?” Having heard this news, even great characters could no longer sit still as they immediately inquired about this matter.
In the beginning, many remained skeptical. But later on, someone vowed seeing an immortal light piercing down onto the lost island, and that they heard the cries of dragons and phoenixes.
“The miracle of the Legendary Age is about to appear!” Afterwards, many smaller reports came from all around the Distant Cloud region, and they were getting more and more outrageous.
Some said that a true immortal was about to come into being while others stated that true dragons and immortal phoenixes were descending. There were a few statements regarding the appearance of an immortal potion as well…
These messages were everywhere, including people who swore on their lives that they saw all kinds of strange phenomena out at sea including dragons and immortals…
As these bits of gossip were flying around, many great powers sent their own to watch the lost island.
Just like the rumors, in a short amount of time, many changes happened to the lost island shrouded in mist. Sometimes, strange images would appear, or a golden light would rush out as if an immortal was visiting the mortal realm. Wondrous hymns emanated from the island, but screams were even more common; it was as if the island was a prison of devils from the ancient ages.
“Could it be that this is the sign of the immortal medicine?” Many experts wondered after seeing all these strange images.
All of a sudden, many great powers who initially intended to wait became impatient and planned on entering the lost island, but the experts who attempted to do so were swallowed by the mist and turned into blood. This scene was extremely frightening, causing people’s hair to stand on end.
Although the mist lingered like a beast wanting to devour trespassing cultivators, human hearts remained greedy for the immortal medicine.
Even Lu Baiqiu, who was staying with Li Qiye, had heard all of these things. These were all messages intentionally spread by Li Qiye, but now they had travelled far and people actually confirmed that immortal medicines were there on the lost island.
Since these two were the first to find the lost island and knowing that Li Qiye had intentionally spread these messages, Lu Baiqiu did not believe any of it. But now, these rumors had escalated to the point of becoming truths. This caused Lu Baiqiu to be surprised as she asked Li Qiye: “What is there on the lost island? Are immortal medicines and miracles really descending?”
“What is there on the island you say?” Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile at her question: “There could be immortal medicines, and there could also be miracles.”
“Really?” Lu Baiqiu had to take a calming breath. She assumed that Li Qiye only wished to spread false rumors when he asked their lord to propagate them.
“On this lost island, immortal medicines and miracles are not worth anything compared to the true existence there!” Li Qiye said with a relaxed smile.
Lu Baiqiu shivered after hearing such words. Just what were immortal medicines? These were priceless treasures even for Virtuous Paragons!
To cultivators, although physique pastes could strengthen the flesh, longevity medicines could prolong life, and fate pills could solidify one’s foundation, all of these pills had a limit. For example, once the lifespan of great characters dried up, they could only use a certain amount of longevity medicine before it stopped being effective.
At this time, they must use different divine treasures to prolong their life, and among these things, immortal medicines were the best option. Moreover, these medicines were all-purpose panaceas that were capable of growing new bones and flesh, prolonging life by a thousand years, and solidifying one’s foundation…
Real immortal medicines were priceless treasures craved by all no matter who they were.
After calming down, Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but ask: “Then what is this item that exists on the lost island?” What in the world could make immortal medicines seem like nothing?
“Well…” Li Qiye cheerfully smiled with narrowed eyes and continued: “I’m afraid no one in this world knows. Only after coming onto the lost island will you know just what kinds of things you will find.”
Who would actually be privy to the truth about an immemorial legend? And who could be so sure of what exists there?
Intuition told Lu Baiqiu that Li Qiye must know what it was, but Li Qiye didn’t want to tell her, so she didn’t dare to pry further.
Meanwhile, many people were clamoring about the lost island outside. While they wanted to reach the island, Li Qiye continued staying on his small island without a care for the outside world. He didn’t do anything outside of cultivating.
However, the Static Stream Royal Lord brought someone to see Li Qiye one day. Before they could come, Lu Baiqiu had already informed him: “A protector from the Thousand Carp River wants to see you!”
“A Thousand Carp River’s protector?” Li Qiye opened his eyes after hearing this, but he didn’t pay it any mind. Not long after, the Royal Lord brought an old man onto the small island. The old man was also a Little Sovereign.
“Young Noble Li, this person is Protector Xiao of the Thousand Carp River.” The Royal Lord quickly made introductions. Although this Protector Xiao might not be that much stronger than the Royal Lord, even he who was the ruler of a country was very respectful towards this protector.
It was not unreasonable for the Royal Lord to show this level of respect. Despite being the ruler of a country, there was no good reason for him to put on airs before a Thousand Carp River’s protector.
The Thousand Carp River was one of the two most powerful Immortal Emperor lineages, and it was the only emperor lineage built by the demon race at the hands of Immortal Emperor Qian Li.
Remember that Immortal Emperor Qian Li was one of the last three emperors during the Emperors Era. Immortal Emperor Ta Kong, Immortal Emperor Yin Tian, and Immortal Emperor Qian Li were the last three emperors.
It could be said that in the Sacred Nether World, Immortal Emperor Qian Li was the one closest to the present, thus the Thousand Carp River that was erected by him had plenty of frightening emperor’s power remaining.
The sect’s influence was still great due to having the most recent emperor, so in spite of there being other Ancient Kingdoms more powerful within the Sacred Nether World, even dual emperor kingdoms were quite wary of the Thousand Carp River.
The Static Stream Country was nothing compared to a huge monster like the river sect, not to mention that the country had always been a tributary state. Thus, the Royal Lord being respectful to Protector Xiao was understandable.
“You are that Li Qiye!” Although Protector Xiao was not an ostentatious person, he was still arrogant before Li Qiye. He simply gave him a glance and said slowly.
“That Li Qiye?” Li Qiye lightly smiled. He would remain nonchalant even before a more unfathomable character, let alone a mere protector. He looked at the protector and said: “I’m the only Li Qiye that I know of among the people I’ve met.”
Protector Xiao slowly spoke: “Today, I came here on the orders of the elders in the sect to break up this engagement with you!” At this time, Protector Xiao purposely acted in a very amiable manner, at least, in his eyes. 1
“Engagement? What engagement?” Li Qiye couldn’t help but smile.
As for the Royal Lord and Lu Baiqiu, they naturally became a bit astounded, especially the Royal Lord. When the protector said that he wished to see Li Qiye, he believed that it was about the matter of the lost island, and he was living in anxiety due to this. However, after listening to the contents of this conversation, he couldn’t resist being surprised.
“You obtained a piece of jade at the Soaring Remembrance Village, correct?” Protector Xiao deepened his tone: “This was only caused due to a moment of anger from a little girl. As long as you and Yunzhu dissolve this marriage, our Thousand Carp River will not mistreat you.”
“What—?” Having heard this, the Royal Lord and Lu Baiqiu were instantly shocked, but they immediately shut their mouths.
“Oh, you are talking about that little girl from the Soaring Remembrance Village.” Li Qiye suddenly understood and looked at Protector Xiao, then he replied with a smile: “What does my fiancee, whom I have never met before, have to do with the Thousand Carp River?” Li Qiye initially didn’t care about this marriage arrangement back at the Soaring Remembrance Village. In fact, it was not so easy to become his fiancee.
“Yunzhu is our Thousand Carp River’s descendant!” Protector Xiao said in a serious manner: “Not just anyone can be her match!”
Protector Xiao’s words were obvious enough. Today, he came to end this arrangement. Otherwise, which unknown junior would be worthy of his presence?
Lu Baiqiu and the Royal Lord were astonished as well since Lan Yunzhu, the descendant of the Thousand Carp River, was a legend among the younger generation.
She was a person with dual saint talents! Despite so many geniuses appearing at the Thousand Carp River, she was soon chosen as their descendant. Keep in mind that an Immortal Emperor lineage like the Thousand Carp River would never lack potential candidates for this position, yet someone with a humble background like Lan Yunzhu was chosen as the descendant by the elders at such a young age. This was telling of her talents.
One had to know that not only was Lan Yunzhu talented, she also had an indescribable beauty. Even if she was not the prettiest girl in the Distant Cloud, she was definitely amongst the top five.
Countless young geniuses in the Distant Cloud fell in love with her at first sight and lost their minds for her. Many geniuses from other emperor lineages came to propose, but all were refused.
“Immortal medicines appeared—?” Having heard the news, even great characters could no longer sit still as they immediately inquired about this matter.
In the beginning, many remained skeptical. But later on, someone made a vow about seeing an immortal light piercing down onto the lost island, and that they heard the cries of dragons and phoenixes.
“The miracle of the Legendary Age is about to appear!” Afterward, many smaller reports came from all around the Distant Cloud region, and they were getting more and more outrageous.
Chapter 397 - Breaking The Marriage Arrangement
Lan Yunzhu — the descendant of the Thousand Carp River, a famous genius of the Distant Cloud, and a beauty that captivated the hearts of many young men.
The Static Stream Royal Lord and Liu Baiqiu were dumbfounded since they didn’t expect that Li Qiye was actually Lan Yunzhu’s fiance despite her having so many suitors.
This news was really shocking to the two of them. A girl like Lan Yunzhu was a high and above existence, but now it turns out that she was actually betrothed to a nameless person.
“So what if she is the Thousand Carp River’s descendant?” LI Qiye responded in a lazy manner: “Even fairies from the nine heavens are nothing special.”
Protector Xiao almost vomited blood from anger, but he calmed down in order to successfully cancel this marriage: “Young Friend, today, our Thousand Carp River came with sincerity.” He even lowered his prideful attitude even more: “As long as Young Friend is willing to cancel this marriage, everything will be easily negotiable… Treasures, immortal gifts, the finest of items — our Thousand Carp River can discuss giving you all of these things. And if you want to, you can even join our sect and become a disciple.”
The recruitment for an emperor’s lineage disciple was extremely stringent. Protector Xiao’s rhetoric did show that their sect came with good will.
“Yes, that does indeed show some good faith.” Li Qiye sometimes had a really bad temperament. He was the type who liked soft attitudes, not hard ones. If the opponent was arrogant, then he would be even more aggressive!
Li Qiye then said with a smile: “But to me, sincerity is not just about treasures or immortal gifts. If you really want to cancel this marriage, let her come and tell me in person, then I might think about it. It isn’t a bunch of old men from your Thousand Carp River getting married, so why are you all taking charge of this?”
Of course, this marriage was just an accident to Li Qiye. If the girl really wanted to cancel this engagement, he personally didn’t mind it at all. However, if the Thousand Carp River wished to forcefully cancel it, then he wanted to torture them a bit.
Protector Xiao was very exasperated and really wanted to teach this stinky brat a lesson, but he was still able to hold back.
Li Qiye began losing interest in an old man like Protector Xiao and no longer wished to debate any further. Protector Xiao became angrier and angrier, but he still managed to maintain a friendly tone as he said with seriousness: “You can think about it. This is a great opportunity for you. Let the Static Stream Royal Lord pass on your response once you have figured it out.”
After Protector Xiao left, Li Qiye smiled and murmured: “Immortal Emperor Qian Li’s future generations are actually not bad!”
Despite Protector Xiao still acting arrogantly, in the end, he still didn’t use his background to bully people and forcefully dissolve this marriage. Otherwise, Li Qiye would have been happy to teach these old men a lesson in Immortal Emperor Qian Li’s stead.
“You… Since when did you become Fairy Zhu’s fiance?” After the protector left, Lu Baiqiu asked; she was no longer able to bear her curiosity.
Rumor has it that many people had proposed to Lan Yunzhu, but all of them were rejected, so this fiance appearing out of nowhere was really too sudden.
“I picked up this marriage arrangement on the road.” Li Qiye smiled and said.
Lu Baiqiu was out of words. Lan Yunzhu was one of the prettiest and most powerful goddesses in the Distant Cloud, so how could becoming her fiance be so easy? If one could pick up such a thing by just walking on the road, then countless people would have been walking nonstop!
If Liu Baiqiu knew that this marriage arrangement really was picked up by accident, then she definitely would be even more aghast.
The Thousand Carp River coming to cancel the marriage was only a small matter to Li Qiye. He still stayed on the small island and waited for the right opportunity to enter the lost mythical island.
And during this period of time, the Thousand Islands became busier and busier as more experts from the great powers rushed here. The sky of the islands was filled with flying treasures and huge beasts heading towards the ocean.
Moreover, everyday, the sky of the islands was filled with blood energy. The auras of Heavenly Sovereigns and Heavenly Kings towered in the sky since countless great characters from the big powers had personally come.
Such a grand scene caused the islands’ cultivators to feel nervous for the inevitable storm.
In order to avoid being caught up in this trouble, after the Royal Lord received Li Qiye’s order, he immediately evacuated his disciples and even the residents of the islands.
Especially when one great power after another appeared, the Static Stream Royal Lord became even more cognizant of the eventual storm, so he hurried the evacuation process.
Of course, this evacuation was only temporary. They would come back after the trouble was over.
During this period, constant explosions could be found each day out in the sea. Sometimes, the earth would even shake as huge tidal waves reached the sky itself. At the lost island’s location, dazzling radiance was a common sight. Some emanated from treasures, and some were immortal lights that came from inside the lost island.
“It is not just the Distant Cloud anymore, even great characters from the Misty Field, Nether Border, and Green River have arrived.”
Lu Baiqiu had been keeping contact with the outside and constantly informed Li Qiye. She couldn’t help herself from worrying: “In the last few days, some Jewel Sovereigns have arrived and almost flipped the ocean over. Should we leave this place first?”
“No.” Li Qiye shook his head and then said with a cheerful countenance: “If Jewel Sovereigns have come, then we can go take a look.”
Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu went to the sea once more. Compared to the last visit, the island was a lot more chaotic this time. Many flying treasures were stopped above the ocean with gigantic vessels hovering in the sky along with pavilions and divine mountains…
There were many cultivators, including great characters, who wished to reach the lost mythical island, but some of them were also here just to watch the fun. Some rode strange looking beasts while others were on flying treasures. Some were situated above the sea while there were also those who chose to just stay in the water.
And there were many great changes within the fog-shrouded lost island itself. Its dome had seven-colored rays beaming outward with continuous transformations. Sometimes, they took the form of majestic sceneries, divine beasts, or just disappeared altogether. Magnificent cries emanated from the island along with beastly howls as if there was a fierce creature imprisoned on the island!
Even the mist surrounding the island had changed and turned into a faint crimson mist.
This bloody color was from the remnants of those cultivators who wished to cross the mist. They intended to forcefully enter the island, but were devoured and turned into a bloody mist in just a second, becoming part of this never-dissipating layer.
Li Qiye couldn’t help but narrow his eyes as he gazed at the great changes taking place on the lost island and didn’t speak for a long time.
Now, right outside of the fog, the great powers had started to divide the ocean into their own camps and built small territories on the surface to house their armies.
What was even more impressive was that above the mists, there were great characters with divine rings around them in all cardinal directions. The auras emitted by their bodies caused all the great demonic beasts in the sea to run; they were surely unfathomable characters. Some were Heavenly Sovereigns, some were Heavenly Kings. They were all mighty rulers of their own countries or sects who rarely showed themselves, but all of them appeared right here in the present.
“Nightwalker Sect, Coiling Dragon Country, Sky-Towering Gate…” Looking at the camps from all of these powers, Lu Baiqiu could recognize their insignias and murmured: “So many top level sects are here!”
“Not just great powers, even a few old undyings who didn’t want to come into being are also here right now along with a few ancestors.” At this time, a person suddenly appeared right next to Li Qiye and continued on: “Yesterday, the Ironstone Valley’s ancestor also came. He wanted to force his way into the lost island, but alas, he was instantly rendered into a bloody mist.”
Lan Yunzhu — the descendant of the Thousand Carp River, a famous genius of the Distant Cloud, and a beauty that captivated the hearts of many young men.
The Static Stream Royal Lord and Liu Baiqiu were dumbfounded since they didn’t expect that Li Qiye was actually Lan Yunzhu’s fiance despite her having so many suitors.
This news was really shocking to the two of them. A girl like Lan Yunzhu was a high and above existence, but now it turns out that she was actually betrothed to a nameless person.
“So what if she is the Thousand Carp River’s descendant?” LI Qiye responded in a lazy manner: “Even fairies from the nine heavens are nothing special compared to others.”
Chapter 398 - Daoist Heaven Calculating
The person that appeared out of nowhere was a young man around the age of twenty. He wore a daoist robe while holding a fan with the word “Calculate” on it.
He was adorned with a daoist crown and showed an experienced demeanor. Moreover, his face wore a mysterious smile as if he was hiding many secrets.
This man suddenly coming around with a very familiar expression caused Lu Baiqiu to look at Li Qiye. She thought that this young man was his friend.
“I am Daoist Heaven Calculating, my words of steel can end life and predict the future!”
This young daoist smiled to greet Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu, then he continued on with a seasoned look: “I am here because of fate and meeting Fellow Daoists is its working. Do you two want to have your fortune read?”
Although Daoist Heaven Calculating assumed a veteran and proper appearance, his age betrayed him. Especially when he asked if Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu wanted their fortune read, he gave off the air of a charlatan.
“We don’t need any divination.” Lu Baiqiu shook her head and said: “A cultivator aims to defy the heavens and change their own fate, so why the need for divination?”
Lu Baiqiu’s words were already quite polite. For others, upon seeing a trickster like this, they would have chased him away much earlier.
“Miss is a bit mistaken. I can see through the past, present, and the future. If you can see your future fate, then all the dangers in your future cultivation path will become harmless.” Daoist Heaven Calculating quickly solicited his business: “I can calculate the heavens above and the gods below, see through the past across the ages…”
In order to drum up his business, this daoist spewed out a deluge of heavenly flowers as if he could actually back up his words. 1
Lu Baiqiu didn’t say anything and ignored the daoist. Only Li Qiye smiled at him and said: “Are you really so amazing? Someone capable of calculating even the heavens and the gods?”
“If you don’t believe me, then let me read your fortune. If you think it is not accurate, then I won’t take any payment.” Daoist Heaven Calculating quickly answered.
Li Qiye put on a very interested appearance which confused Lu Baiqiu. A glance was sufficient to tell that this Daoist Heaven Calculating was a charlatan, so why would Li Qiye suddenly believe him?
“Okay, then go ahead and read my fortune.” Li Qiye spread out his palm with a wide smile while looking at Daoist Heaven Calculating.
“Very well!” The daoist was ecstatic to see a customer and immediately looked at Li Qiye’s palm. At the start, the daoist was pretty relaxed, but as time went on, he became more serious as he stared at Li Qiye’s palm lines with a focused glimmer in his eyes as if he wanted to see through everything.
“Oh mother!” Right when he utilized his magical technique, he suddenly turned pale as if he was bitten by a poisonous serpent and had to take several steps back!
After retreating, the pale daoist stared at Li Qiye as if he was seeing a ghost. Lu Baiqiu did not expect his reaction; it was only palm reading, must he exaggerate so much?
“Gods, ancestors, please protect me!” The frightened daoist regained his sanity and quickly turned around to escape. However, he only managed several steps before Li Qiye grabbed him by his collar and pulled him back.
“Big Boss, I am only a little nobody trying to survive in this world.” The daoist quickly begged: “Big Boss is a great and benevolent character, so you shouldn’t bother with a little guy like me.”
The daoist suddenly begging for mercy caught Lu Baiqiu off guard. She was good-hearted so she appealed in a low tone: “He didn’t mean much harm, just let him go.”
In her eyes, Daoist Heaven Calculating was only a common charlatan that fooled common folks. Even though these swindlers were annoying, she was too lazy to make it difficult for such characters.
Li Qiye shook his head and cheerfully spoke to Daoist Heaven Calculating: “What are you in a rush for? I won’t eat you. Look at your panicked appearance, do I look like a beast to you or something?”
However, Li Qiye was even scarier than a beast in the eyes of Daoist Heaven Calculating. With a blanched expression, he shook his head as if he was beating a drum and quickly begged for mercy: “This insignificant me displayed my slight skill before an expert; I’m only trying to get by and did not know the immensity of the heaven and earth. Please be benevolent and forgive this pitiful one.”
“Well, stop talking!” Li Qiye let the daoist go and laughed: “I actually have something for you to calculate.”
Li Qiye’s demand left the daoist aghast as he quickly dodged: “Boss, I am a nobody without any skills. I only eat and sleep, so how could I calculate Boss’ great matters?”
“Is that so?” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes to gaze at the daoist before saying: “If you can’t calculate it, then I shall destroy your bones. What do you think about that?”
Having heard this, the daoist became despondent like a deflated ball as he patted his head and helplessly said: “I will try my best if Boss wishes so.”
Lu Baiqiu found the whole thing quite strange with Li Qiye wanting to make it difficult for a trickster.
Li Qiye drew something down on a piece of paper and handed it to Daoist Heaven Calculating as he cheerfully said: “Divine this and tell me the answer. And don’t even think about running or I’ll destroy your nest!”
The daoist looked at the item on the paper and had a bitter look on his face. His appearance was even more bitter than eating yellow lotuses as he dejectedly hung his head downward.
“Well, Boss, since you believe in this little one so much, then I will calculate and tell you once I have some results!” The daoist then put the piece of paper away and quickly answered Li Qiye.
“Go.” Li Qiye gently waved his hand. This word was like the sound of salvation to the daoist as he quickly escaped, not daring to linger for a half second longer. It was as if Li Qiye was a plague.
After the daoist left, Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but look strangely at Li Qiye.
“He is not a charlatan.” Li Qiye leisurely answered her curiosity: “He is a natural diviner from the Heart-ghost Tribe.”
“Heart-ghost Tribe!” Lu Baiqiu murmured in shock: “A fabled ghost diviner from the legends!”
It was said that the Heart-ghost Tribe was a very mysterious tribe. They were born with a heart mirror that could read the mind; they were capable of calculating disasters and the future, so countless great characters in the Sacred Nether World searched for them.
“Why does he not have a heart mirror?” After regaining her wits, Lu Baiqiu asked.
Li Qiye replied with a smile: “Not all Heart-ghosts have a heart mirror from the moment they were born. And having one doesn’t necessarily mean that they can predict the future.”
She also wanted to ask why the daoist ran away in fear as if he had seen a ghost after reading Li Qiye’s palm.
“Oooo!” At this time, a dragon’s roar radiated throughout the vast sea. A golden dragon soared above the mythical island and disappeared in its deepest location.
“Is that the mythical Golden Dragon?” Even though it was just a passing scene, this shocked many people in this part of the ocean.
A real mythical beast had always been part of legends — no one had actually seen them. Today, all of them saw a Golden Dragon flying in the sky, and this was too astonishing.
“Could there really be immortal medicines? It is said that immortal medicines are naturally guarded by mythical beasts!” At this time, even a few great characters waiting right outside the mist became quite impatient.
In just a short moment, there was an upheaval above the ocean as many people wished that they could reach the island in order to find these mythical immortal medicines.
“Open!” Finally, a great character standing right outside of the mist became impatient and exuded a divine light. He roared with a vigor capable of destroying a star.
“Boom!” After his attack, a clear pathway penetrated the fog, revealing a visible vacuum. This great character was indeed amazing and was absolutely of the ancestor level. He could easily pluck the stars and moon in the sky.
At this moment, unrivalled treasures emerged all around this ancestor’s body. He then turned into a Flood Dragon and used an incalculable speed to rush into the vacuum space he created in order to reach the lost island.
Many held their breath while watching this ancestor. Earlier, an ancestor had already died in the mist, so everyone wanted to see someone capable of creating a miracle right now.
“Pfuff!” However, the moment the ancestor stepped into the vacuous space in the mist, no matter how many treasures were protecting his body or how strong his own power was, he was instantly annihilated as his body turned into a bloody mist without being given even a chance to scream.
Such a terrible scene sent terror through all the spectators and stopped all of those who wanted to reach the island on the spot!
Lu Baiqiu lost her mind from fear as cold sweat drenched her palms. She also wanted to rush into the island during the initial discovery, but fortunately, Li Qiye stopped her. Otherwise, her result would have been the same as this ancestor just now.
Even a powerful ancestor like this was instantly turned into a bloody mist, so her fate would be needless to say.
The bloody mist that was once the ancestor slowly integrated itself into the mist, causing the whole entity to become even more crimson. The current crimson mist in the sea became even more demonic, causing people’s hair to stand on end.
“We shall go back now, the time is not yet ripe.” Li Qiye gently shook his head and turned around. He must wait even longer before crossing this mist!
Chapter 399 - Pressure From The Thousand Carp River
After Li Qiye returned to his small island, the Static Stream Royal Lord was already waiting there.
“Young Noble Li, the Thousand Carp River asked me to inquire about whether you have thought about it or not.” The Royal Lord was in a bit of a dilemma after being sandwiched by Li Qiye and the Thousand Carp River. Needless to say, the burden of this hard work fell on his shoulders.
“It seems that the Thousand Carp River is very worried.” Li Qiye said with a smile.
The Static Stream Country felt quite helpless inside. How could the Thousand Carp River not be in a rush? Lan Yunzhu was their descendant that had been groomed with countless efforts. It would be strange if the sect didn’t go insane at the prospect of her marrying an outsider.
The Royal Lord then quickly took out a tray with many different pills laid on top that exuded a pleasing medicinal fragrance, causing others to relax.
“Young Noble Li, this is a small token from the Thousand Carp River. The sect hopes that you can quickly make a decision.” The Royal Lord placed the small tray in front of Li Qiye.
“Five Transformation Fate Pills!” Li Qiye smiled and said: “Oh? The Thousand Carp River wants to serenade me first? But these are only Five Transformation Fate Pills, they are still a bit lacking.”
“The Thousand Carp River didn’t say that these pills would be enough, they only wished for both sides to have a good start. This is only a small token.” The Royal Lord quickly tried to smooth things over.
Li Qiye didn’t care to look any further and casually handed the pills to Lu Baiqiu on the side and lightly said: “You can keep them for your own use.”
Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but become lost in a daze. Five Transformation Fate Pills were not something a Region Lord and someone who had only stepped into the Royal Noble realm like her could enjoy. They were extremely precious since they were pills for Ancient Saints; obviously, they also had great benefits for Royal Nobles.
Even the elders inside the Static Stream Country that wanted a Five Transformation Fate Pill would not find it easy to obtain one. However, these pills were akin to garbage in Li Qiye’s mind. As he gave them to her, he didn’t even bother to look at them. Such a style was not something a small country like the Static Stream could compare to.
The Static Stream Royal Lord wryly smiled and thought that people from emperor’s lineages were indeed not the same as the disciples from ordinary great powers. Such extravagance of not even caring for Five Transformation Fate Pills!
“When does Young Noble Li plan on going to the Thousand Carp River?” The Royal Lord quickly asked. It was not easy for him being in the middle of Li Qiye and the sect.
“If the river truly wants to cancel this marriage, then let Lan Yunzhu personally tell me. A bunch of old men does not need to worry about this!” Li Qiye didn’t pay it any mind as he said with a smile.
The Royal Lord wanted to cry, but no tears would come out. He had no way of reporting such an answer. Li Qiye was really a bit too overbearing. The elders from the river were all great characters who could shake a domain with a single stomp of their foot. Very few people of the younger generation dared to disrespect them, but Li Qiye didn’t care for the elders at all. Maybe this was the boldness of a disciple from an emperor’s lineage.
The Royal Lord wanted to leave, but he hesitated a few times as if he wanted to say something. He ended up stopping two or three times.
“If Royal Lord has something to say, go ahead and say it.” Li Qiye noticed this and saved him from this difficult state.
After some hesitation, the Royal Lord still spoke in the end: “Young Noble should really give them an answer soon. I heard people over there say that although the river wants to resolve this matter in a friendly manner, there are also those who wish to use a more high-handed approach.”
“A high-handed approach?” Li Qiye narrowed his eyes and grinned, revealing his teeth that were as white as snow.
The Static Stream Royal Lord said with a wry smile: “Young Noble already knows, but it is not easy for the river sect to train a descendant. Its inner power has quite a few people who wish for Fairy Zhu to find a companion from the sect itself instead of an outsider.”
“Don’t let one’s own fertile water flow into others’ fields.” Li Qiye could understand this matter. In fact, this was the traditional practice of many great powers.
“I heard several high elders from the sect were very adamant about this.” The Royal Lord reminded Li Qiye.
To the Royal Lord, regardless of the result of this marriage between Li Qiye and Lan Yunzhu, he was just hoping that this would end soon. Being stuck between the two of them was a very painful thing. If this went on any longer, it would be even more difficult for him.
“Adamant?” Li Qiye rubbed his chin and smiled: “I actually like the rough ways of doing things. Very well, if the river wants me to end this soon, then I’ll go visit them.”
“Visit the Thousand Carp River?” Having heard this, the Royal Lord was startled with a changed expression.
Li Qiye’s words were not very friendly at all in the ears of the listeners. It was as if he wished to release his anger upon the sect.
“Don’t worry, I have always been a peace-loving person. If the sect is willing to negotiate, then I’ll go and speak to them in a nice manner.” Li Qiye gave a devilish smile.
Lu Baiqiu and the Royal Lord couldn’t help but glance at each other. The sky would fall before they trusted his words. Just one unfriendly exchange of words and he immediately killed someone… If he was a peace-loving person, then everyone in this world would be accomplished monks.
“Does Young Noble actually want to go to the Thousand Carp River?” The Royal Lord said with a bitter expression: “If you choose not to have a friendly settlement, then it would be the same as walking into a tiger’s den.”
Of course, he was not actually worried about Li Qiye’s safety. However, he didn’t want this thing to escalate beyond control. If his Static Stream Country became involved, then he wouldn’t be able to escape unscathed!
“Tiger’s den?” Li Qiye responded with a smile: “I am one without too many hobbies, but one of them is that when I know there is a tiger on the mountain, I love to go towards it.”
The Royal Lord’s pain could be seen from his expression. If he knew that Li Qiye would do such a thing, he wouldn’t have said anything even if he was beaten to death. Look at the situation now! Not only did he fail to persuade Li Qiye, he actually caused Li Qiye to go to the Thousand Carp River.
But then he thought about it more carefully. If Li Qiye actually went to the river sect, it might not be a bad thing for their country. In the end, their country being stuck between the two truly was an awkward state.
“Baiqiu, do you want to go with me?” Li Qiye was the type who immediately took action after making a decision, so he spoke to Lu Baiqiu. “Of course, if you don’t want to, I won’t force you.”
Lu Baiqiu couldn’t help but look at the Royal Lord. After some hesitation, the Royal Lord finally gave up with a wry smile and sighed: “Region Lord Lu can decide for yourself.”
No one would know whether the trip would end in good fortune or a disaster, so the Royal Lord let Lu Baiqiu decide her own fate.
After pausing for a bit, Lu Baiqiu finally answered Li Qiye: “I’ll go with you!”
The Royal Lord gently sighed and left without saying anything.
After he left, Lu Baiqiu immediately asked: “Are we going to the river sect right now?”
Although she was not mentally prepared to face the storm since the result of this trip was unknown, this might be a good chance to broaden her horizons. In the end, the Thousand Islands was too small.
“If you don’t have any arrangements to make, then we will go now.” Li Qiye said: “I’m actually looking forward to this trip!” He couldn’t help but smile at this point. The Thousand Carp River was a location worth remembering.
“What about the lost mythical island?” Lu Baiqiu asked since she knew that Li Qiye came here for the island.
Li Qiye gently shook his head and said: “It is not so easy to land on the island. We can take our time and wait until there are enough people here. That will be when an opportunity arises!”
As long as enough blood was shed and enough lives were taken, there would be a chance to go to the lost island.
Of course, Li Qiye wouldn’t say these words out loud.
Lu Baiqiu didn’t have to make any arrangements, so she went with him to the Thousand Carp River.
In fact, the Static Stream Country was very far from the Thousand Carp River. Of course, it was not an issue for Li Qiye; it didn’t take long before he got there.
The Thousand Carp River was an emperor’s lineage erected by Immortal Emperor Qian Li, and he used the river as its name. As an emperor’s lineage, they had control of the majority of the land on the two banks of the river.
And even if they didn’t have direct control, many countries and sects on the two banks were subordinated to the sect.
Its power and influence were both great. As the most recent Immortal Emperor of the Sacred Nether World, Immortal Emperor Qian Li’s prestige remained strong.
Despite being named after the river, the sect’s ancestral ground was not built at the source of the river. Instead, it was built at the largest lake at the center of the river, the Thousand Carp Lake.
When standing on top of the Thousand Carp Lake, no one would think that it was a lake since it looked more like an ocean! It was not strange to have such a feeling since, as the largest lake of the Sacred Nether World, it was extremely vast. The lake’s surface had majestic waves, just like a mighty ocean.
There were many legends about the Thousand Carp Lake along with many hidden secrets. The Distant Cloud to the south had tales about how Immortal Emperor Qian Li came from this lake! Because of this origin, the emperor had the title Qian Li; he even created the sect and placing the sect’s emperor foundation right below this river. 1
Of course, these were just anecdotes and no one knew the truth. The secrets hidden within the lake were just like the emperor — shrouded in mysteries.
While standing above the lake, anyone could feel the moisture and spirit energy combine together to rush to their faces. It was as if the lake was a cornucopia of gathered worldly energy.
After Li Qiye returned to his small island, the Static Stream Royal Lord was already waiting there.
“Young Noble Li, the Thousand Carp River asked me to inquire about whether you have thought about it or not.” The Royal Lord was in a bit of a dilemma after being sandwiched by Li Qiye and the Thousand Carp River. Needless to say, the burden of this hard work fell on his shoulders.
“It seems that the Thousand Carp River is very worried.” Li Qiye said with a smile.
The Static Stream Country felt quite helpless inside. How could the Thousand Carp River not be in a rush? Lan Yunzhu was their descendant that had been groomed with countless efforts. It would be strange if the sect didn’t go insane at the prospect of her marrying an outsider.
Chapter 400 - Finding The Fiancee
Li Qiye brought Lu Baiqiu next to the lake and could see the blue surging waves smashing into the bank. Looking around further, one could see many islands in the lake, creating a beautiful green scenery that had many magnificent buildings and mighty bridges…
Many pavilions stood close to each other on these islands with ancient temples floating above the sky. There were even pagodas down below the surface of the lake, emanating formation array beams. Then, there were ships as big as islands entering the sky above the river. Amazing bridges connected these islands along with ancient tree trunks…
The center of the lake was even more auspicious with a faint shrouding energy as if it was covered by a veil. It was extremely mysterious and caused others to want to go inside to see everything.
However, the even more eye-opening aspect was not the landscape, but the demons entering and leaving this area. Many great demons were on patrol across the lake. Some had a human’s head with a snake’s body, then there were fish-men and turtle demons carrying thick shells.
There were many demons living in the Thousand Carp River. It was the sect made of humans and demons, the most powerful symbol of these two races in the Sacred Nether World!
Inside the river and amidst the deep grooves, sometimes there were dragon-like hymns as a Flood Dragon would appear in the lake, creating terrifying tidal waves.
“Is that a True Dragon?” The sound of the splashing water as a Flood Dragon jumped up then immediately dove back down to the lake incited Lu Baiqiu’s question.
“It is only a Flood Dragon. Its bloodline is not even close to that of a True Dragon.” Li Qiye answered with a smile.
Further in the horizon, one could see a type of phoenix-fish swimming in schools together. The moment they jumped out from the lake’s surface, they were like a group of phoenixes flying in the sky with immortal lights covering the atmosphere, illuminating the lake.
On each of the boulders beneath the lake, there were turtles sleeping and absorbing worldly energy with an origin core in their mouth. Although these turtles had not reached the dao, they had already obtained an amazing creation from this world.
There were also monstrous crabs who were blowing out bubbles. Once these bubbles fell to the ground, they turned into jewels that some disciples immediately collected.
Divine birds were nesting on the cliffs of these islands. They used precious grasses to build their nests, so despite lying in their nests, they still lit up the whole island with a five-colored radiance.
Lu Baiqiu was astonished as she took in all of these rich scenes from the Thousand Carp Lake. She was just like an older wet nurse, visiting the house of a great official for the first time. Despite regularly seeing the ocean at the Thousand Islands, it was not as beautiful as the Thousand Carp Lake since it didn’t have so many miraculous scenes!
There were also demons in the Thousand Islands, but they were far from being as amazing as those found here.
In fact, this was not strange at all. Many powerful experts of the river sect all came from the lake. This lake was a treasure ground, so many existences that grew here could eventually reach attainment and become a demon.
After these creatures obtained their own sentience, they had the chance to join the Thousand Carp River and become a disciple. Moreover, these demons had a great advantage because they grew up inside the lake and accepted the grooming from this treasure ground, so their future path was very optimistic. One could say that more than half of the upper echelon of the Thousand Carp River were creatures from the lake that had turned into demons.
Because of this, many people in the Sacred Nether World believed that the Thousand Carp Lake was an unfathomable treasure ground. There were even amazing characters who believed that there was a supreme treasure hidden beneath the lake.
Standing above the lake caused Li Qiye to have many feelings. Such a familiar feeling… This boundless spirit energy from the river caused him to drown in memories.
Before such a wondrous scene, who would know that in the past, this lake did not have such an appearance? Who would know that before the river sect was established here, no one would have thought that this place was a treasure ground!
While the two of them spectated the area by the lake, a small patrol boat came by. Standing on the small boat was a shrimp demon with a human head and a shrimp body, wielding a pitchfork. He came closer and asked Li Qiye and Lu Baiqiu: “Do Fellow Daoists only wish to sightsee, or do you want to enter the sect?”
To the sect, the lake produced many wondrous treasures and this would lead to countless cultivators’ greed. Thus, once outsiders came close to the lake, it would immediately lead to questioning from the patrolling disciples.
“Go tell your elders that your sect’s son-in-law is here to visit his maternal family.” Li Qiye said with a wide smile.
His words caused this shrimp demon’s expression to greatly change as it spoke with a grave tone: “Fellow Daoist, one can eat many things carelessly, but one cannot say careless words or else they might cause trouble for themselves.”
Lu Baiqiu was very kind, so she told the demon in a low voice: “This person is the fiance of Fairy Zhu. He came here to see the elders of the sect.” She indeed had good intentions and didn’t want to see this shrimp demon offend Li Qiye; that would lead to a disaster!
This shrimp demon was distraught as he stared at Li Qiye in disbelief. There was only one person referred as Fairy Zhu in their sect, and it was their young lord, Lan Yunzhu!
It gazed at this ordinary-looking fella before it. Their princess was the prettiest in the southern Distant Cloud, someone who was adored and courted by countless descendants from the great powers. Even just within their sect, many geniuses had a crush on her, but no matter how amazing these geniuses were, none of them had earned their princess’ favor.
Now, a fiance suddenly appeared. Moreover, no matter from which angle one looked at it, this person looked ordinary! Ordinary appearance, ordinary temperament, and ordinary cultivation!
The shrimp demon didn’t dare to make a decision on its own regarding such a matter. It took a big breath and immediately said: “Wait here, I will immediately go and report this!” Having said that, it galloped away and quickly disappeared in the mist.
After it left, Li Qiye looked at Lu Baiqiu and revealed a gentle smile: “It seems that you really have a kind heart ah!”
Lu Baiqiu wryly smiled and said in a low voice: “We don’t necessarily have to mess with the river sect till the point of an irreconcilable feud, right? If everyone just takes a step back, then we can all enjoy the boundless open vistas.”
Of course, Lu Baiqiu was different from Li Qiye. She ultimately had a humble background, plus the Static Stream Country was only a second-rate sect. She didn’t have the power to oppose a huge monster like the Thousand Carp River.
“Take a step back?” Li Qiye softly smiled and shook his head to say: “That is not up to me, but up to them. If they wish to oppose me, then there is no need to take a step back!”
Lu Baiqiu could only secretly sigh. Although she hadn’t followed Li Qiye for a long time, she had a little understanding of Li Qiye’s personality. He only liked soft and not-hard attitudes.
The shrimp demon didn’t dare to hide the matter and immediately reported Li Qiye’s arrival. This very quickly came to the elders’ attention.
In fact, through the course of the report, many hall masters and protectors were also surprised at this news. Lan Yunzhu’s fiance? Their first impression was that this was impossible!
Lan Yunzhu was their Thousand Carp River’s proud daughter — their princess. Even descendants from emperor’s lineages were not worthy of her, so how could there be a fiance out of nowhere?
Nevertheless, this was a serious matter. Although some hall masters didn’t believe this news, they still reported it to their superiors.
“A bit courageous ah, actually coming to our door in person.” After hearing this news, an elder immediately convened a meeting, resulting in another elder’s resentment.
An optimistic elder who wanted to resolve this marriage in a friendly manner said: “Maybe this Li Qiye came to break off the engagement. If he is a cultivator of the southern Distant Cloud, then he should know better and know the immensity of the heaven and earth.”
“Nothing would be better than him willingly canceling this marriage. I hope he knows what’s best for him. Hmph, if he came here to bargain, then all of his plans would be for naught.” Another elder stated.
An even more emotional elder declared: “Why must our Thousand Carp River negotiate with a nobody like this little brat? No matter if he is willing or not, we have to cancel this marriage! Give him something good and chase him away. Hmph, if he doesn’t know any better, then just capture him!”
“We shouldn’t break the friendly discourse so quickly.” The Thousand Carp River’s sect master, Daoist Bao Gui, shook his head and slowly said while sitting in his chair: “We have to discuss this with Yunzhu first, to see what she thinks about this.” 1
“Sect Master, Yunzhu is our Thousand Carp River’s seed and descendant, we cannot marry her off to an outsider!” An elder immediately expressed.
Another elder added: “Yes, Senior Brother, Yunzhu is our sect’s hope of reaching the Heaven’s Will in this generation. She has a big chance of becoming our sect’s second Immortal Emperor ah! Plus, even if Yunzhu has to start a family, it cannot be with a nobody. At the very least, it has to be a descendant of an emperor’s lineage!”
Daoist Bao Gui gently shook his head with a smile and said: “No matter what, we have to hear Yunzhu’s opinion first. It is not like you guys don’t know this girl’s personality. Moreover, maybe the fella came with good intentions so there is no need to start with force from the outset.”
“Hmph, to a nobody like this, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a carp crossing the dragon gate, how could he give up such an opportunity!” An elder who was already antagonistic towards Li Qiye exclaimed! In the end, Lan Yunzhu was their sect’s biggest chance of grooming an Immortal Emperor in this generation!
“First, we must accommodate our guest and ask Lan Yunzhu before making any decisions.” Daoist Bao Gui smiled: “Our sect is an honorable sect, not one that would go back on its words. He is a guest, so let the disciples treat him like an honored guest without any delay!”
Although some elders disagreed with this, since the sect master had decided, the other members didn’t say anything else.
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