Chapter 401 - Bet
The red clothed man split the crowd apart and walked over. His steps were slow and leisurely, and his posture was filled with pride. A faint smile which contained a hint of disdain and ridicule hung on the corner of his lips, as though he was an emperor overlooking the many lives below him. His front chest slightly straightened, and that phoenix emblem glistened brilliantly, announcing his identity to everyone.
As practitioners who were able to make a long trip from the six nations to spectate the match, which one of them wouldn’t be high-leveled individuals with huge pride and arrogance? However, facing this disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect, what they felt was actually an incomparably huge sense of pressure… Although the six nations and the Divine Phoenix Empire were referred to as the seven nations, even if the six nations combined their forces, it would still be impossible for them to shake the Divine Phoenix Empire the least bit. Every year, they had to give a huge amount of tributes to the Divine Phoenix Empire, and they never dared to stop doing so. To make it sound uglier, when the six nations were in front of the Divine Phoenix Empire, they would be similar to affiliated states. In front of the overwhelming power of the Divine Phoenix Empire, no matter if they were individuals with great strength and authority in the political or profound realm, when they were in the Divine Phoenix Empire, they would all have to clench their buttocks and act courteously.
And the Divine Phoenix Sect, was the absolute overlord of the entire Divine Phoenix Empire! In the eyes of the continent’s profound practitioners, the Divine Phoenix Sect, was more similar to a group which consisted of people that came from another plane and world.
Moreover, this was even the Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory!
Hence, when they faced the incomparably presumptuous and ear-piercing mockery from this Divine Phoenix Sect disciple, these young practitioners who held a bundle of pride and arrogance in their own nations, dared to be furious, however, they did not dare to speak them out loud. In the eyes they were using to look towards the Phoenix disciple was thirty percent anger, and seventy percent fear.
These types of gazes, and the feeling of a tiger herding sheeps, made the Phoenix disciple feel even more prideful and complacent. His voice also became even more ear-piercing. “You little ones from these six nations, it’s best that you scram from here as soon as possible. The Black Moon Headquarters isn’t a place worthy for you low-class people to enter. By piling yourselves here, you’re only going to dirty the ground here, and taint the air here.”
Yun Che’s brows furrowed fiercely… He had seen many arrogant people, however, it was still the first time he had seen someone who would unhesitantly humiliate the ones present here, and all of the profound practitioners of the six nations, with such an arrogant tone. He really wondered if this Phoenix disciple was initially an arrogant prick himself, or if all of the Phoenix disciples would all act the same way in front of profound practitioners of other nations.
When these words of his fell, the profound practitioners of the six nations present, undoubtedly became even more furious, and in the end, a young profound practitioner who did not even look to be twenty years old, could no longer control himself as he said furiously. “You… What are you being so arrogant for!? Disciples of every sect have their own distinctions of the strong and the weak. Even if it’s the Divine Phoenix Sect, there’s no exception… Who knows what kind of status you actually have? Who doesn’t know how to talk big? If you have the capabilities… Then open the profound array and prove it to us!”
The moment his words fell, an astonished voice suddenly came from the back of the crowd. “I recall now! He’s Feng Zhaonan, the head disciple under the thirty ninth elder of Divine Phoenix Sect! I have once seen his name on the list of top hundred in the Divine Phoenix Ranking Tournament two years ago!”
When this piece of news came, the crowd instantly burst into an uproar. The eyes they were using to look towards the Phoenix disciple instantly underwent a grave change, as they became even more frightened… And as for that young profound practitioner who spoke up earlier, his expression instantly turned terribly pale.
Not only was he a disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect… He was even the head disciple of an elder-class figure! In the Divine Phoenix Nation’s Ranking Tournament, he was positioned in the top hundred!!
Feng Zhaonan burst out into wild laughter. “Hahahaha! I never expected that among you profound practitioners from these small nations, there’s actually someone who knows of my great name, Feng Zhaonan, as well… Heh, don’t you guys want to see if I’m capable of breaking open this Black Moon Headquarters’ profound array? Then, I shall have all of you open your eyes, and carefully look at the difference between the disciples of my Divine Phoenix Sect and the trash of your small nations!”
“Move away!”
Feng Zhaonan took three steps forward, and stood in front of a profound array. Putting out a posture very casually, he said lazily. “All of you had best open your eyes wide and look carefully now.”
When his words fell, phoenix flames speedily burnt on the top of his palm, and then, it fiercely collided towards the profound array in front.
Instantly, all of the phoenix profound energy was completely taken in by the profound array. Almost in an instant, the red, orange and yellow colors on the crystal pillar lighted together. The blinding light continued to rise, and it hurriedly lighted up the green color… Yet, it still did not stop, and instead, continued to rise at a decreasing rate. In the end, the blue colored glow was barely lighted up as well, and only after maintaining for about three seconds, did all of the glows fade away.
The profound array spun at high speed, and then, the shape of a transfer gate slowly formed. The color of the door was blue, and Feng Zhaonan’s body was being enveloped by a layer of blue glow as well, which meant that this blue-colored transfer gate, could only be entered by Feng Zhaonan.
Green, represented the right to enter the Black Moon Headquarters, and this color, also meant that the people of this color would all be absolute geniuses in the eyes of the Black Moon Merchant Guild! Not only did Feng Zhaonan have the qualification to enter the Black Moon headquarters, he was blue, a level higher than green. This judgment represented that in the standards judged by the Black Moon Merchant Guild, he was a genius among geniuses! All of the profound practitioners from the six nations were dumbfounded, and every single of their faces were turning red.
Feng Zhaonan retracted his hand, and a hint of complacency flashed past his eyes. However, his demeanor was as casual as before, and he then said very casually. “Mn, it was just a casual blow, but it’s still acceptable. You trash from the small nations, do you know what this blue color means? Tsk tsk, let’s forget about it. Because, let alone the third and fourth levels of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, all of you are only able to wish to enter the most basic first and second levels in your entire lifetimes. You all had best hurry and scram. Stop blocking this place and prevent anyone from walking over. You’re all really shameless.”
After saying that, with extremely belittling eyes, he swept a glance at the furious profound practitioners of the six nations, laughed out wildly, and walked to the transfer gate at the front. Just when his front foot was about to step into it, from behind him, an extremely disdainful voice sounded from the crowd behind. “And here I was thinking just how capable a head disciple of a Divine Phoenix Sect Elder was, it seems it’s not really much either. But, your arrogance, has surpassed your strength by countless times.”
When these words came, the entire crowd was instantly in an uproar, as they looked towards the one who spoke up, one after another. Feng Zhaonan’s steps stopped, and his entire body slowly turned back. His gaze landed on Yun Che, and after casually inspecting his profound strength, his face revealed an extremely disdainful expression. “The person who spoke earlier, was it you?”
The person who spoke earlier, was indeed Yun Che. Yun Che was not someone who was willing to cause much troubles for himself, but, more so than that, he was not someone who was willing to be ridiculed in silence. Feng Zhaonan’s earlier mockery was towards all of the profound practitioners of the six nations, and that naturally included him… But this was still secondary —— What Yun Che was definitely unable to bear, was when there was someone more arrogant than himself, standing right in front of him!
Like Feng Zhaonan.
Feng Zhaonan’s imposing aura was naturally astonishing, however, how could Yun Che be affected by his imposing aura? He coldly laughed, and said. “That’s right, it was me.”
“Hahahahahaha!” Feng Zhaonan laughed out wildly, as though he had just heard the funniest joke in the world. “And here I thought which big figure it was, so it’s just trash from a small nation… Oh, no, it’s something that can’t be even fit to be called trash. This level of profound strength, is but a pitiful Earth Profound Realm. In my eyes, it’s just trash, yet you dare to talk arrogantly in front of me? Your guts really aren’t small.”
He narrowed his eyes, and stretched out a finger with a smile. “Do you believe that if I want to kill you, I simply require a single finger? But, what a pity, this place is the territory of Black Moon Headquarters, and private battles are not allowed. After all, I have to give the Black Moon headquarters face, otherwise, just by those ridiculous words you said to me earlier, you would have already been a corpse by now! After dying in my hands, even if you’re a royal prince from some nation, or even the crown prince, I will still guarantee that your emperor will obediently dispatch men to collect your corpse. Other than that, he wouldn’t even dare to give another damn.”
Among the young profound practitioners present, those who had higher profound strength than Yun Che could be found anywhere. When Yun Che called out, they were initially pleasantly surprised, as they thought that someone, who could put down this Phoenix disciple’s prestige, had appeared. However, when they found out that Yun Che’s profound strength was merely at the Earth Profound Realm, all of them were extremely disappointed, and there were even someone who questioned if he was insane… With strength merely at the Earth Profound Realm, he actually dared to challenge a top-class disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect.
“However, if you were to kneel and give me three sounding kowtows now, then call me your grandfather three times, I can still consider sparing your life, and allow you to leave Divine Phoenix City safe and sound. After all, as my own grandson, how could I, your grandfather, bear to lay my hands on you? Hahahaha.” Feng Zhaonan belittling and arrogantly said.
All of the surrounding profound practitioners looked at Yun Che with pitiful faces… Even though he did not possess the strength to back himself, he still came out to act tough. How could the Divine Phoenix Sect’s iron plate be so easily kicked!? They could already predict the tragic end of this person.
“Kowtow?” The corner of Yun Che’s lips slightly tilted, his expression did not carry the slightest of fear, instead, he lightly smiled. “It seems to be a pretty good idea. Then, Feng Zhaonan, why don’t we make a bet? I hold a very big interest towards this Black Moon Headquarters, and my purpose here today, is to enter and take a look. If I don’t have the capabilities to enter the third and fourth floor like you, forget about kowtows, you can do whatever you want with this life of mine. If I’m able to have this crystal pillar’s light shine above the blue color, heh… Then you shall obediently kneel in front of me, give me three sounding kowtows, and call me your grandfather three times… This bet, do you dare accept it?”
When Yun Che’s words came out, everyone gasped out in shock. The profound practitioner from Black Fiend Empire that was deflected away by the profound array earlier, loudly reminded. “Are you crazy!? Hurry and take back the words you said earlier. Forget about blue, getting the green color to light up is even harder than stepping onto the heavens! I’m at the early stages of the Sky Profound Realm, a mere Earth Profound Realm like you, you’re basically… basically humiliating yourself.”
“Forget it, Senior brother Yin. Don’t bother him, he should be a lunatic.” His sect companions hurriedly said, as they feared that he would be targeted by Feng Zhaonan out of anger.
“You? Make a bet with me? Higher than blue?” The corner of Feng Zhaonan’s eyes twitched, his face spasmed. Then, he laughed out wildly, his body rocked back and forth, and he could barely catch his breath. “Haha… Haha… Hahahaha… This is basically the best joke I have ever heard in my entire lifetime… An Earth Profound Realm trash… actually has pipedream of hitting above blue… And even wish to make a bet with me… Hahaha… Hahahaha…”
The eyes the surrounding profound practitioners were directing at Yun Che, had already changed to as though they were looking at a pure idiot. Yun Che coldly looked at Feng Zhaonan’s wild laughter. When he finally managed to stop laughing, Yun Che lightly said. “Do you dare or not? If you don’t dare, then good, I’ll let you off. My time is extremely precious, and I don’t wish to waste it excessively on an arrogant trash.”
Feng Zhaonan’s wild laughter stopped, his expression instantly darkened. “You’re saying I don’t dare? Heh… Even till the end, you’re an idiotic trash who doesn’t know the difference between heaven and earth. With you alone, you’re not qualified to make a bet with me. But, my mood today suddenly became really good, so I shall play with you. If you’re able to strike higher than blue, forget about three sounding kowtows, and calling you grandfather three times, it’s not even a problem for me to give you ten thousand kowtows and call you grandfather ten thousand times at all. Come, come. Hurry and strike it, show me. Allow me to properly witness how you’re going to strike it above blue… Hahahaha…”
“Very good.” Yun Che nodded. He suddenly raised his head, and looked towards the far top in at the front. “Since this bet has already been made, and it’s even made on the territory of this Black Moon Headquarters, then, why don’t we have that senior on the seventh floor, who has been looking here all this while, bear witness to this?”
At the seventh floor of Black Moon Merchant Guild, an elderly dressed entirely in purple was standing by the window. Standing stationary like a statue, he had been silently watching the plaza below for a very long time. When Yun Che’s voice came sounding from afar, the elderly’s entire body shook for a moment, and his face revealed an astonished expression… He carefully looked at Yun Che’s gaze, and realized he was actually looking straight at his own position, there was not even a single difference in angle!
He’s actually able to discover me? Astonishment and disbelief filled the purple clothed elder’s heart…
The seventh floor of Black Moon Merchant Guild was more than a thousand and five hundred meters away from ground floor, and the horizontal distance from the crystal stage of the plaza to the Black Moon Main Hall was several hundreds of meters away as well. At the same time, the Black Moon Merchant Guild’s viewing window was sealed by an incomparably precious unique material, which could allow one to view the outside clearly, but prevent one to see inside even the slightest bit from the outside. Adding that the purple clothed elderly’s profound strength was incomparably powerful, even if a Throne was merely a few hundred meters away from him, it would be difficult to discover his aura.
…But this Yun Che, whose profound aura was clearly merely at the Earth Profound Realm, was actually able to discover my presence!? And he even knew that I had been looking at them all this while!
In actuality, the one who found out that the purple clothed elder had been looking at them from the seventh floor all this while, naturally, couldn’t possibly be Yun Che, instead, it was Jasmine.
Chapter 402 - Senior Zi
The purple clothed elder stood in place without moving, and did not say anything either, because he wasn’t sure if Yun Che was merely probing about to make it deliberately mystifying or had actually discovered him… If it was the latter, then that would be inconceivable.
At this moment, Yun Che actually spoke once more: “If senior isn’t going to reply, then I’m going to count that as silent approval. For the Black Moon Headquarters to be so successful even now, honesty is inevitably the number one criteria. I believe that senior would not allow a lowly person who would go back on his word to appear in his domain.”
Feng Zhaonan laughed loudly: “Seventh floor senior? Hahahaha! With such a far distance, and it even being the interior of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, let alone a trash like you, even I should not think about probing for any movements inside there. You putting on such an act like that seriously resembles an extremely ridiculous clown.”
Yun Che laughed coldly. Without saying another word, he walked toward the front of a profound array in the eyes of everyone present… He had already roughly understood that this crystal station’s standard for talent; the age of one’s bones, and degree of power… not simply the level of one’s profound strength. If it was in accordance to this standard, then no matter what, he ought to be stronger than this Feng Zhaonan.
Yun Che extended both hands and gathered his energy. “Purgatory” instantly opened as his hands smashed out with “Falling Moon Sinking Star”.
Divine Phoenix Empire had more than five thousand years of history, and the existence of this crystal stage was even older than the Divine Phoenix Empire, which was highly unusual. The might of Yun Che’s strike under the state of Purgatory was absolutely terrible beyond compare, but once it struck atop the profound array, it also did not make any noise as all its force was completely absorbed by the profound array in an instant, without the slightest bit of overflow.
Clang Clang Clang…
The silent crystal pillar suddenly lit up… from red, it almost instantly went straight to blue. The sound of five different colors simultaneous lighting up overlapped, directly shocking the ears of everyone present with a continuous droning noise.
All of the surrounding profound practitioners had a pitiful expression, and were already prepared to see a joke, but the scene before their eyes immediately left them completely dumbstruck, leaving them unable to dare believe their own eyes. The sneer on Feng Zhaonan’s face stiffened instantly, as he involuntarily cried out: “This… this is impossible!”
The ascension of the light on the crystal pillar slowed down, but it still did not stop as it continue upward through the blue pillar and broke through the blue colored boundary as the indigo crystal pillar then lit up.
“Waah!!” Almost all the profound practitioners present let out an involuntary cry… However, the crystal pillar’s light still did not cease, and instead continued to rise higher and higher. The indigo light quickly became an azure color. Then, there was only a “clang” sound…
A purple radiance was released from the highest pillar of light.
Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet… All colors lit up, and the entire crystal pillar brightened with the color of the rainbow. Slowly, the violet color spread downwards, gradually engulfing the other colors, making the entire crystal pillar purple. The purple color was preserved for a full ten breaths of time, then slowly scattered. The profound array in front of Yun Che spun at high speed, and then, the shape of a purple colored transfer gate slowly formed. Yun Che’s body, was also radiating a faint purple color.
On the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, the face of the purple clothed elder, who had been standing by the window from the start, fiercely moved. His gazed firmly locked on Yun Che, and it took a good while until he slowly spoke out a few words: “Earth Profound Realm… Inconceivable…”
This grade, was also beyond Yun Che’s expectations. In fact, the crystal stage’s standard judgement of talent did not merely use a person’s age and strength, at the same time, it also compared the power released of those at the same level as well. Yun Che’s profound strength was at the late stages of the Earth Profound Realm, yet he could release a strength comparable to a middle stage Emperor Profound. This was his current strongest, and it could be said that in the entire Profound Sky Continent, none could reach him.
The surrounding profound practitioners were all stupefied on the spot. A profound practitioner that placed in the top fiftieth of Black Fiend Nation’s ranking tournament could only strike out the yellow. Feng Zhaonan was the head disciple of an elder-rank person within the Divine Phoenix Sect, and his blue grade was one that they could never hope to reach for even in their entire lifetimes. Yet this person, who was obviously at the Earth Profound Realm, actually struck out… the illusory, unreal violet!!
This meant that based on the Black Moon Merchant Guild’s judgement, his aptitude was at the very top of the entire Profound Sky Continent! Although there was the level of indigo between violet and blue, this did not represent the disparity in the two levels, rather, the difference was two full planes, two whole worlds! In front of a yellow-colored grade, a blue-colored grade was a transcendent existence that one could not see the summit of. But in front of a purple-colored grade… it was trash, through and through.
“Impossible… Impossible… There must be… be a problem with the profound array… Impossible!” Staring at the purple colored radiance that had yet to disperse, Feng Zhaonan’s entire body shook… Born in Divine Phoenix City, he was even more clear than everyone present on what the purple-colored grade meant. Because within this generation of Divine Phoenix Sect’s profound practitioners, only one person had struck out a purple-colored grade. Even indigo, was a rarity. No matter what, he was unable to accept that a mere Earth Profound Realm from one of the other six nations, someone who was fundamentally not even worthy to be glanced at in his eyes… had actually struck out the violet of legends!
Even though he had lowly muttered out that there must be a problem with the profound array… he was even more clear than everyone present that it was absolutely impossible for there to be a problem with the profound array. It was rumored that these thirty-two profound arrays were made by a Monarch of the Sovereign Profound Realm, and it existed even longer than the Divine Phoenix Empire. How could a problem possible appear on it?
Yun Che turned around, faced Feng Zhaonan, and laughed faintly: “Feng Zhaonan, the results are now in. You ought to not have forgotten the bet we made previously, right? Then what are you standing there for? Why haven’t you kneeled down and kowtowed to your grandfather?!”
“You!” Feng Zhaonan’s complexion became pitch-black… Before now, even if he was beaten to death, he would never believe that a mere, insignificant Earth Profound Realm would strike out a level higher than blue… or even the legendary violet. Let alone a high ranking disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect, even if it were an ordinary person, it was impossible for one to accept the humiliation of going down on his knees to kowtow, and even calling out grandfather. Otherwise, he would always bear this humiliating mark for his entire life.
“You’re only a trash of only the Earth Profound Realm, how could you strike out the violet!” Feng Zhaonan said with gritted teeth: “There obviously is a problem with the profound array… or maybe you had used some sort of trick! To want me, Feng Zhaonan of the Divine Phoenix Sect to kneel for you… is simply a joke as big as the heavens!”
“Haha.” Yun Che sneered: “Divine Phoenix Sect is known as the number one sect in the world, its might and power is known to be impressive everywhere, and would make people wistful. Never did I expect that not only is this disciple condescending beyond belief and arrogant without scruples, he’s actually a lowly person who would go back on his word. That seriously leaves one greatly disappointed. However, you can’t renege on your bet, as every friend present here are all personal witnesses! If you really do not care about your pathetic face, you can just leave far away with your tail behind your legs. But I don’t know what would happen if this news were to spread throughout the city and pass through your sect’s ears, letting them know that you had lost all of your sect’s face in front of the presence of all the other six nation’s profound practitioners in Black Moon Merchant Guild’s territory. I wonder if they would expel you from Divine Phoenix Sect… Oh, no, Divine Phoenix Sect’s biggest taboo is their bloodline, so they would never drive away a disciple. I guess they would directly do some… house cleaning?”
When Feng Zhaonan had come earlier, the surrounding reverent gazes had made his entire body feel incredibly pleasurable. But now, the surrounding gazes were like daggers boring into his entire body… If he was alone with Yun Che, he would unhesitantly kill Yun Che, letting not a third person know of this. However, not only was this the territory of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, there were also more than ten thousand people here as witnesses. This was the first time in his life that he had been forced in such dire straits.
“In this one generation of my grand and mighty Divine Phoenix Sect, only one person has struck the violet! How could a trash of the Earth Profound Realm like you, be able to strike the violet! There’s obviously a problem with the profound array… What qualifications do you have to make me kneel?! Nobody would ever acknowledge this result! You’re actually even using the name of my sect to scare me? Haha… haha, simply ridiculous!”
Feng Zhaonan laughed loudly as he roared, but it was obvious that he was not confident in his last few words.
At this time, an aged voice suddenly came from above: “Little junior of Divine Phoenix Sect, your arrogance had first brought you trouble, yet you are not willing to admit that you lost your bet and is instead questioning my Black Moon’s profound array!? I’m afraid that if it was your Master, Feng Yunzhi himself, not even he would have that sort of courage!”
This sound was not at all resounding, but every word felt as if mountains were firmly striking at the soul. The level of cultivation that belonged to the owner of the voice was simply unimaginable. Feng Zhaonan raised his head toward the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, his face revealing a deep shock and fear. He said hurriedly: “It’s… it’s Senior Zi! Senior Zi, please calm your anger. This junior… this junior absolutely does not have the intention of questioning the Black Moon Merchant Guild.”
“No? Then is it that there was a problem with my hearing?” The aged voice asked loudly.
Feng Zhaonan’s face immediately became ashen, and he didn’t dare to speak for a long while…
A high ranking disciple from the Divine Phoenix Sect had actually been scared to this extent by the owner of this aged voice. Yun Che was slightly shocked in his heart, he raised his head and spoke: “Junior thanks senior for his fair words.”
“Honesty is the number one principle of my Black Moon Merchant Guild, and we can’t bear to look at despicable people who go back on their word. However, this junior is after all, a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple. If he goes down and kowtows, it would be of the utmost humiliation, which would be extremely inappropriate for the entire Divine Phoenix Sect. To you, it also brings not the least bit of benefit, so you ought to stand back in due course.”
“Senior’s teaching is right.” Yun Che said cheerfully: “Junior only could not take his gaze that looked down and insulted all of us six nation profound practitioners, which is why I wanted him to remember this a bit more.”
His expression became unsightly as he turned to face Feng Zhaonan and said with a beaming smile: “This Black Moon Merchant Guild senior has already plead for mercy in your stead, so of course I’ll have to honor this senior’s reputation… This head of yours, no longer needs to knock on the floor, grandfather, you also do not need to call. But if you just leave like that, then wasn’t this bet made for naught? We, profound practitioners of the other six nations, would also have been scolded by you free of charge! Thus, you had best leave behind a little something! Mn…” Yun Che supported his chin with a hand as his eyes narrowed into slits while he sized up Feng Zhaonan’s entire body: “The clothes you’re wearing is actually not bad, take it off and give it to me… Senior, this junior’s request is not too excessive, right?”
The aged voice transmitted over: “The Phoenix Robe is a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple’s identity. No one outside of the sect would dare copy it, and even more would not dare to wear it. Even though I don’t know what you would use the Phoenix Robe for, compared with your bet, this is merciful enough. Little junior of Divine Phoenix Sect, the other party has already given you a huge concession, do you have any other objections?”
The Phoenix Robe was a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple’s status symbol, taking it off was undoubtedly comparable to tearing one’s face off. However, this outcome was unquestionably a thousand hundred times better than kowtowing. Added with the suppressive might coming from the Black Moon Merchant Guild, how could he even say anything else? Gritting his teeth, he took off the Phoenix Robe, flung it at Yun Che, then quickly changed into another outer clothing. After eyeing Yun Che with a malicious gaze, he left without ever looking back.
“You deeming a person weaker than you as trash means that you would admit defeat in the face of someone stronger, this also means that you are trash, through and through! It was not easy for the Divine Phoenix Sect to use five thousand years to develop to its state today. Even if you do not have the ability to increase your sect’s reputation, you should never think of making a disgrace out of yourself by using your status as a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple, making others hold you in contempt!” Yun Che coldly stated toward Feng Zhaonan’s direction. Then, without caring about Feng Zhaonan’s reaction, he turned around and walked over to that profound array he had struck earlier.
At the moment, the surrounding profound practitioners were looking at Yun Che with gazes filled with deep reverence. None were underestimating him for having the profound strength of an Earth Profound Realm anymore. At the same time, they were deeply thankful, after all, he had helped every of the six nations’ profound practitioners let off some steam in front of that Divine Phoenix Sect disciple. It was just that the imposing manner he used to deal with Feng Zhaonan and also the violet that was struck on the crystal stage, made them lose the courage to approach him in the middle of their reverence and gratitude. As Yun Che walked toward the profound array, the surrounding profound practitioners quickly stepped aside. Their gazes continuously followed him as they watched him walk into the purple colored profound array, and completely disappear within.
The purple colored profound array sent Yun Che to the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild… a place that not many of the entire Profound Sky Continent had set foot in.
Chapter 403 - Black Moon’s Seventh Floor
Upon entering the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, before he had even seen it clearly, a current of extremely refreshing air assaulted his senses… Right! It was actually clean, refreshing air! For an enormous merchant guild, the strongest aroma it ought to have would be a simple and dignified odor, but Yun Che actually felt as if he had suddenly been placed within a completely clean and pure natural environment, without the least bit of feeling like he was within a merchant guild.
He opened his eyes and looked toward the front. Astonishingly, a garden as far as he could see appeared before his eyes. Various kinds of brightly colored rare and unusual botany sprinkled within the emerald green as a great tree towered above. The running stream criss-crossed inbetween, bringing along the unceasing murmurs of running water.
A dazzled thought instantly emerged within Yun Che’s consciousness… was this something built inside Black Moon’s seventh floor?
This was obviously an otherworldly utopia from the fairy realm!
Up ahead, three beautiful and graceful young maidens who wore different colored garments walked toward Yun Che. None of their looks were not one in ten thousand, and their bearing was even more luxuriously poised. Their profound strength aura was strong to at most the Sky Profound!
The three young women came to Yun Che’s front and saluted gracefully: “Esteemed customer, welcome to Black Moon Merchant Guild. If there is anything you need, please do not hesitate to tell us.”
The treatment within Black Moon’s seventh floor was sure enough, extraordinary. With these three young women’s shocking strength, any one of them would be a regional lord within the Blue Wind Nation, yet here, they were unexpectedly mere maids that waited upon customers.
Yun Che quickly swept a glance around, yet did not see any place that was selling an item, even the smallest trace of what a merchant guild ought to have was indiscernible. He thought for a moment, then said: “Three fairies, may I ask where the senior I was talking to earlier is currently?”
“Haha.” A gentle chuckle came from an unknown place: “Bring him here.”
“Yes… Esteemed customer, please come this way.” The three young women agreed crisply. With one at the front, left, and right, they respectfully led Yun Che forward.
After passing through the garden, through the flowerbeds, through a little group of hills and a little waterfall, a simple yet extraordinarily styled courtyard appeared in his line of sight. In the center of the courtyard was a pavilion, and in front of the pavilion stood a medium statured old man dressed entirely in purple who was currently sizing up Yun Che with a smile.
Yun Che took a step forward and said politely: “Junior Ling Yun greets senior.”
Yun Che obviously would not his real name, so he casually borrowed Ling Yun’s.
“Heh heh, please sit.” The purple clothed elder beckoned with a hand, then went on ahead to sit on the stone bench in the middle of the pavilion. Yun Che nodded slightly and sat opposite of the elderly man. One of the young women left gracefully, and the other two broke off to either side of him with their heads slightly lowered and a light smile on their lips. Their posture was solemnly respectful, as if they were at Yun Che’s disposal.
“May I ask what senior is called?” Yun Che asked.
“This old man is surnamed Zi, and simply named Ji.” The old man answered with a smile.
Zi? Yun Che was somewhat taken aback, this was the first time he had ever heard of this family name, but he nodded immediately: “Senior Zi, thank you so much for speaking out and helping me earlier.”
“The matter from before did not require this old man to say anything, as for helping you, it even more so cannot be considered as help. This old man merely prevented a small inconvenience for Black Moon, and nothing more.” Zi Ji raised his gaze, looked Yun Che straight in the eye, and said with a smile: “Young man, should this old man call you Yun Che, or Prince Consort Yun, or the name Ling Yun, that you wished to be called?”
“…” Yun Che’s expression stiffened slightly. Then, he laughed out loud and answered without the slightest of fluster: “As expected of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, your intelligence gathering ability is indeed unrivaled under heaven. Junior Yun Che trying to play tricks beneath Senior Zi’s all-seeing eye is truly laughable, I hope that Senior Zi will not take offense.”
“Haha,” Zi Ji laughed indifferently: “Black Moon’s intelligence gathering ability isn’t that exaggerated. It’s merely that your identity just so happens to be easy to recognize, that’s all. This old man has been in touch with members of the Divine Phoenix Sect all year round, and is extremely familiar with the phoenix flame ability. Even though you did your best to suppress it, this old man still could detect a bit of phoenix aura from your body. And the only person who possess the Phoenix bloodline outside of Divine Phoenix Sect is only Prince Consort Yun of Blue Wind Nation.”
The young woman who had left, returned, carrying already brewed tea. The tea’s fragrance permeated everywhere, making Yun Che’s state of mind relax as he smelled it. Even though he didn’t really understand much about tea, he knew that the value of this tea should be extremely high. He raised the tea cup, drank a small mouthful, and praised: “Good tea. After hearing senior’s words, it seems that this junior thinking about hiding his identity would be an impossibility.”
“You have concealed it with ice profound energy, unless they meticulously probed you, I’m afraid that even a Divine Phoenix Sect elder would not sense your phoenix flame ability.” Zi Ji smiled: “You had lit up the violet crystal on my Black Moon’s profound array, so it could even be said that your innate talent is universally shocking. Before, this old man had placed all his attention on you, otherwise, I would not detect your phoenix flame ability. However, to this old man, it doesn’t seem as though you are painstakingly hiding your own identity, or else you would not have paid any attention to that Divine Phoenix Sect junior, then also unrestrainedly revealed your innate talent on that crystal stage.”
“As expected of the master of Black Moon Merchant Guild’s seventh floor, your insight is perceptive.” Yun Che sincerely praised. On Black Moon’s seventh floor, the people that this Zi Ji made contact with were all kinds of peak level figures in the Profound Sky Continent. His ability to perceive and appraise someone was absolutely not one that an ordinary person could reach. He said lightly: “This junior had previously been hunted by others all year round, and is long weary of avoiding and hiding all over the place. After half a month, junior will be up against the Divine Phoenix Sect. Since that’s the case, there isn’t really a need for me to be trembling in fear and be overcautious within this half a month. Not being noticed by Divine Phoenix Sect is of course the best scenario, but even if I were to be noticed, it wouldn’t really matter anyway. If I was cautious about everything, wouldn’t it mean that I was afraid of the Divine Phoenix Sect?”
Yun Che drained the tea in the cup in one gulp. When talking about the Divine Phoenix Sect, there was not the least bit of fear in his expression.
This kind of courage made Zi Ji secretly praise him in his heart. He nodded, revealing his approval: “The reason why Divine Phoenix Sect did not really care enough to actively seek you out two years ago when you revealed your Phoenix bloodline and existence, is because in Divine Phoenix Sect’s eyes, every profound practitioner from the six nations outside of Divine Phoenix Empire are ants unfit for them to look at. However, after talking with you for a bit, this old man suddenly feels as if Divine Phoenix Sect may perhaps have to pay dearly due to them holding you in contempt… but that cannot be now. Even though you are not the least afraid, it does not mean that you are capable of opposing the Divine Phoenix Sect’s power. Your talent could be said to be extremely high, but it has not matured. You might be far stronger than what the Divine Phoenix Sect expected by many times, but it would still not be the least bit threatening.”
“Junior is well aware of this point.” Yun Che nodded, then proceeded to talk about the main reason why he had come here today: “The reason why this junior had come to the Black Moon Merchant Guild today is because this junior wishes to buy two things, and two intelligence, but…”
Yun Che’s gaze swept the surroundings… because this place truly did not seem like a place that sold things.
Understanding what Yun Che was puzzling over, Zi Ji laughed: “Don’t hesitate to just open your mouth and tell this old man whatever you need. The seventh floor is different from the first six floors. There is no difference between the first six floors and the Black Moon Merchant Guild you know of, while this place rarely has customers. Esteemed customers that come here are all personally received by this old man. Whatever an esteemed customer wants, as long as they say the word, no matter if Black Moon has it or not, as long as our esteemed customer asks for it and can afford to pay the price, Black Moon will do its utmost to fully satisfy it. If you want the little things, someone would still accompany our esteemed customer to the sixth floor.”
So it’s like that… Yun Che no longer hesitated as he said directly: “Of the two things this junior needs, one is a Heavenly Brahma Jade, the purer the better. The other is a completely preserved Phoenix Helianthus.”
Zi Ji closed his eyes, then opened them a few breaths later. He reached out his hand to lightly stroked the purple jade ring on his finger, took out a jade box that was releasing cold air, and showed it to Yun Che: “This is the biggest, and also the purest piece of all the Heavenly Brahma Jade that Black Moon possesses.”
A young woman walked forward and gently placed the ice jade case before Yun Che: “Esteemed customer, please have a look.”
Yun Che no longer hesitated, and directly opened the ice jade case. From within the cold pervading mist, Yun Che saw a light piece of stone shimmering with silvery light, which contained veins that look bloodshot. Yun Che extended his left hand; after an instant of feeling about, he sensed its purity with the Sky Poison Pearl’s perception… Things from Black Moon Headquarters would naturally not be fake. Yun Che immediately closed the ice jade case, and said: “Alright, may I ask senior to state a price?”
“Heavenly Brahma Jade is six hundred purple profound coins per fifty grams. This Heavenly Brahma Jade weighs six hundred fifty grams, and needs seven thousand eight hundred purple profound coins.” Zi Ji nonchalantly quoted a price.
The hell, so expensive! The corner of Yun Che’s mouth twitched, but he had a huge sum of ten million purple profound coins on him, so he certainly could afford it. Immediately after, he took out seven thousand eight hundred purple profound coins from his Purple Gold Card. Then, he put the Heavenly Brahma Jade inside the Sky Poison Pearl.
“As for the Phoenix Helianthus, the last thirteen Phoenix Helianthus Black Moon possessed had just been all bought by Divine Phoenix Sect six hours ago.” Zi Ji said: “If you urgently need them, outside of Black Moon, there is actually another place where you could buy it.”
“Where?”
Zi Ji said slowly: “One hundred fifty kilometers south of here is a merchant guild called the ‘Falling Flame Merchant Guild’. Tomorrow, at three in the afternoon, they ought to be auctioning out precious materials, among them is precisely the Phoenix Helianthus.”
Yun Che nodded “Junior has taken note of this, I thank senior for telling me this… Er, do I have to pay for this information?”
“Hoho, no need.” Zi Ji laughed faintly, then reminded: “However, even though the Falling Flame Merchant Guild is called a ‘merchant guild’, it is actually a black market. The things it sells are also unofficial public sales, once you get there, you’ll understand. But this old man believes that with your wisdom, you probably would not suffer a loss. Now, what are the two pieces of intelligence you wanted?”
“This junior hopes that Black Moon will help me look for the whereabouts of two individuals.” Yun Che stated grimly: “Of the two, one is named Chu Yuechan, formerly a disciple of Blue Wind Nation’s Frozen Cloud Asgard, head of the Frozen Cloud Seven Fairies. The other is Xia Yuanba…”
Yun Che described the two to Zi Ji in as much detail as he could. Zi Ji slightly closed his eyes, remembered everything, then said while nodding: “This old man will personally dispatch people for intelligence on these two people. Only, Black Moon’s relay network in Blue Wind Nation is thinly spread out, so it would be hard to guarantee swift news within the short term. Leave behind your sound transmission imprint. After possessing solid information, this old man will immediately contact you. Since you are an esteemed customer, there is no need for you to pay for the intelligence in advance. At the date of confirmation, we can settle the bill. Among the two, even though this old man does not know the whereabouts of Xia Yuanba, this old man does know a few matters concerning him, and can tell you a thing or two.”
Stunned, Yun Che immediately stood up: “You know Yuanba?”
“Not only do I know him, many people within Divine Phoenix City know of this name as well.” Zi Ji said slowly: “Back then, his name had actually resounded within half of Divine Phoenix City for a short period of time, he was a crazy madman. But shortly after, he suddenly disappeared without a trace. Not long after his disappearance, his father had also come rushing over to Divine Phoenix City, and actually stayed within this Black Moon Headquarters… Heh heh, if this old man has not remembered wrong, Xia Yuanba’s father, Xia Hongyi, should also be one of your father-in-laws, right?”
Chapter 404 - Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand
“Uncle Xia… in Black Moon Headquarters? Here?” Yun Che was stunned. Half a year ago, after he returned to Floating Cloud City, he had first went to Xia Manor, and found out that Xia Hongyi had left a long time ago to search for Xia Yuanba, who had not been sending any letters. The servant who had remained at Xia Clan told him that Xia Hongyi had taken out something shaped like a black crescent moon when he was tidying things up… At that time, he suspected it was a thing related to the Black Moon Merchant Guild, and if that was so, then he assumed that Xia Hongyi was probably searching for Xia Yuanba through the Black Moon Merchant Guild.
He never expected that he had actually remained within this Black Moon Merchant Guild.
And this was not just a Black Moon branch that could be found throughout the Profound Sky… it was the legendary Black Moon Headquarters!
Someone that was able to stay here was definitely not an ordinary figure. The relationship between Xia Hongyi and Black Moon Merchant Guild was in no way simple.
“If you wish to see him, this old man can personally bring you to him now. He’ll surely be delighted to see you.” Zi Ji said with a chuckle.
Yun Che’s expression became incomparably complex. After being silent for a long while, he slowly sat down and said: “Has Uncle Xia been doing well here?”
“Only he himself knows if he’s been doing well or not. But at least here, everything is stable, and he would not be bullied by anyone.” Zi Ji replied.
Yun Che nodded, and said half to himself: “Then that’s good. Knowing that Uncle Xia is safe and sound relieves me… I was the one who took Yuanba to Blue Wind Profound Palace, and it was also me, who took him to Heavenly Sword Villa. If he had remained in New Moon City, the things that happened afterwards would not have occurred. Without having found Yuanba yet, I don’t have the face to see him… Senior Zi, talk to me about Yuanba. This junior could not be any more clearer about his strength, so how could he have shocked half of Divine Phoenix City?”
“Two years ago, a youth from another nation arrived in Divine Phoenix City. After the first day he arrived, as well as every other day after that, he went to challenge those famous sects within the city.”
“He… challenged sects?”
“Yes. Unfortunately, his profound strength cultivation was too low, and was easily injured severely by the other party. But on the second day, he continued to challenge the sect with a body full of injuries. The outcome, was obviously injury upon injuries. On the third day, he still went to challenge that sect, and had actually been struck to the brink of death due to the other party’s impatience… Even though his profound strength was feeble, his physique was exceptionally abnormal. He was obviously near death with heavily injuries, but on the next day, he still was able to stand up, and dropped in once more to challenge them. There was even one time when the other party had beaten two enormous bloody holes on his body, yet he still didn’t die. At first, everyone thought that he was a lunatic, but as the days and months passed, no one considered him to be a madman anymore. It was not rarely to see someone who strongly pursued strength, but being strongly attached to that extent, even if it’s this old man, it was the first time ever.”
Yun Che: “…”
“In the three months he had stayed in Divine Phoenix City, his body was riddled with heavy injuries everyday. There was practically no place on his body that was left intact, but he still dragged his heavily injured body and went to seek out opponents that he simply could not defeat. Among the ones he had challenged, there were inevitably a few impatient ones, or perhaps malicious ones who wished to put him to death, but no matter what kind of heavy injury he received, he had actually never died. In those three months, the people’s view of him changed from ridicule to that of shock, until that day after three months when he suddenly disappeared from Divine Phoenix City. There was not the slightest trace of him even until today, so he has probably been forgotten already. However, this old man believes that he was not secretly harmed by another, otherwise, he would never have escaped Black Moon’s eye.”
Yun Che’s heart became incomparably complex. Even though Xia Yuanba was especially tall and appeared to make one feel oppressed, under Xia Hongyi’s nurture, he had an especially gentle temperament and a simple nature. Furthermore, he was always unwilling to fight against others. However, the Xia Yuanba described by Zi Ji was actually a lunatic, through and through. He was very clear on the reason why Xia Yuanba had suddenly changed…
“…Senior Zi, thank you for telling me all these. I’ll be troubling you with everything else.” Yun Che said while standing up.
Zi Ji also stood up right after, and said with a laugh: “No need to be polite, it is our Black Moon’s honor to have the privilege of servicing our esteemed customers.”
Yun Che understood why Zi Ji was so courteous to him. Since the Black Moon Merchant Guild had developed up to today, it naturally had an established reason for its existence. Toward those with extremely high innate talent that might possible rank within the Profound Sky’s peak experts, Black Moon naturally would show preferential treatment. Not only would their service be at its utmost respectful, they were even eager to make the other party owe them a debt of gratitude.
“Oh right,” Yun Che suddenly thought of another matter: “I don’t know if Senior Zi has heard of the ‘Netherworld Udumbara Flower’?”
The Netherworld Udumbara Flower was one of the three items Jasmine needed within thirty years. She needed a Netherworld Udumbara Flower, three Tyrant Profound Beast Cores, and thirty-five kilograms of Purple Veined Divine Crystals.
“Netherworld Udumbara Flower?” A pondering look emerged on Zi Ji’s face. After a short while, he said slowly: “This old man knows of this flower, it is an extremely yin, demonic, and evil item. It only grows within extremely wicked places, and would only bloom once every twenty four years, then wither three days later. This flower is frightening, let alone touch it, just being near it would allow the netherworld’s aura invade one’s body, and damage the soul. If the effect was light, it would make one lose consciousness, if heavy, it would make one a living dead person, even so much that one would lose their life. Apart from this, I have never heard of any positive value to this flower. Why are you looking for this flower?”
“Junior naturally has a special use for it, if senior knows where one is, I’d like it if you’ll inform me about that as well.”
Zi Ji thought for a while, then shook his head: “The last written record of a Netherworld Udumbara Flower was one thousand three hundred years ago. After that, there were no more written accounts nor rumors about it. The human race within the Profound Sky Continent is continuously increasing, nowadays, there are more than four times the number of people since a thousand years ago. As a result, the yang energy of the entire continent has greatly surpassed the yin, perhaps the Netherworld Udumbara Flower has thus become extinct in the Profound Sky Continent.”
“…I thank senior for telling me this, this junior shall take his leave.”
After unexpectedly learning about some news concerning Xia Yuanba, even if it made his mood a bit heavy, it had at least comforted him somewhat… No wonder he was never able to find any signs of Xia Yuanba within Blue Wind’s borders, it turned out that he had actually come to the Divine Phoenix Empire after leaving Heavenly Sword Villa.
In terms of profound strength level, Divine Phoenix Empire was after all, a place that was far higher than Blue Wind. Did he come here to seek strength in his extreme sorrow and self-blame…?
And Little Fairy, where exactly are you anyway…
——————————————————
Divine Phoenix Sect.
The date of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament grew closer and closer. Feng Xichen’s mood also became more and more impatient by the day. The scene of that day’s humiliation never stopped upsetting his mental state. After he had finally informed Feng Ximing about the Yun Che related matter yesterday, he had become even more restless.
Because what he had described to Feng Ximing was a world of difference from the truth that happened several months ago. Even though he was certain that Divine Phoenix Sect would absolutely not pardon Yun Che if he were to truly come to Divine Phoenix City, he was unable to worry about Yun Che possibly mentioning the events of that day during the ranking tournament. If the events of that day were to be made public in front of thousands of eyes, the brand of humiliation would not only be carved into his soul, it would be carved onto his face from then on.
The door was pushed open, and a tall figure, accompanied by a scorching heatwave, stepped in. The anxious Feng Xicheng quickly turned around. Just as he was about to get angry, when he saw who had come in, his surging fury was panicky taken back, and he hurriedly made a frontal salutation: “This son greets royal father.”
“You may rise.” Feng Hengkong lifted his hand, and got straight to the point: “Ximing has already told us in detail about what you had experienced in Blue Wind Nation a few months ago. Although you have concealed it till this day, it is still pardonable, we are not here to blame you.”
Feng Xicheng said hurriedly: “This son thanks royal father for his kindness… It’s just that, even though royal father does not blame me, this son nevertheless feels even more ashamed and unresigned.”
“Hmph!” Feng Hengkong’s face filled with rage: “We also never thought that a little Blue Wind Emperor would actually have such guts! Rest assured, in not even three years, we shall retrieve back ten million times the humiliation you received in Blue Wind for you! At that time, you will be handling the punishment of that Blue Wind Emperor. As for that Yun Che brat… Hmph, didn’t he say that he was participating in the ranking tournament? Very good, we just so happen to be waiting to see how he’ll tumble!”
Feng Xicheng was half delighted and half in panic: “This son thanks royal father for his deep generosity… This son’s humiliation is but a small matter, but the matter of our Divine Phoenix Sect’s bloodline is even larger than the sky. How about taking care of that Yun Che in secret before the ranking tournament?”
“No need!” Feng Hengkong swung his hand and said in extreme disdain: “How is a little profound practitioner from Blue Wind fit to be especially targeted by our Divine Phoenix Sect in secret? That’s simply lowering our Divine Phoenix Sect’s status! The Seven Nation Ranking Tournament has always been our Divine Phoenix Sect’s show, if there is no source of laughter and sense of balance, it would be quite dull! We actually hope that this Yun Che could display a little color when that time comes, and not let us down.”
“What royal father has said is extremely true.” Feng Xicheng said while lowering his head.
“Xicheng, what is the result of the theft in Phoenix Jade Hall we have told you to investigate?” As he mentioned this matter, Feng Hengkong’s complexion changed to become distinctively overcast.
“This son has discovered the person behind the theft…”
Just as Feng Xicheng was in the middle of speaking, Feng Hengkong fiercely turned around: “Who is it! Who exactly is this audacious, to dare steal from our Divine Phoenix Sect!”
The reason why he was furious, was not merely due to this person’s audacity, but rather due to his astonishment, because this thief could be said to have a terrifying ability. What kind of place was his Divine Phoenix Sect? Let alone an outsider, even if it was a mere winged insect, it would quickly be detected. But this thief, who was not sensed by anyone, stole into Phoenix Jade Hall, where all kinds of treasures were stored… If it weren’t for the fact that he had inattentively touched an invisible profound formation during his theft, it could even be said that no one would’ve known that someone had already infiltrated Phoenix Jade Hall.
What astonished him even more was that after the thief had activated the profound formation, which made all the experts in the sect become more vigilant, the thief had actually left with not the slightest of injuries under the heavy encirclement of innumerable phoenix experts… For this, even if it was a genuine Overlord, it was still nigh impossible to achieve…
“Royal father, please calm your anger… There is only person in the entire Divine Phoenix Empire who is able to accomplish this…” Feng Xichen raised his head, continuing with locked brows: “Hua Minghai.”
“Hua Minghai?” Feng Hengkong had on an overcast expression, but quickly reacted over: “‘Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’ Hua Minghai!?”
“Yes!” Feng Xichen nodded: “In this world, there is only one person who can accomplish that. Hua Minghai’s profound strength is not too great, but his speed and movement skills could be said to be peerless. Moreover, his ability to be extremely good at concealment, moving stealthily, changing his appearance, being soundless, and being good at escaping is unrivaled…”
“No need to speak any further.” Feng Hengkong waved a hand: “We have also heard of this name. Known as the ‘number one thief in the world’, Hua Minghai, who possesses a ‘ghost mirage sacred hand’! It has been said that no matter what he stole, he had never made a mistake, let alone be captured by anyone. Even his true appearance has never been seen by anyone. Hmph… but we never thought that this thief would actually be audacious enough to provoke our Divine Phoenix Sect! Does he truly think that no one in this world is able to deal with him?!”
Chapter 405 - Underground Auction
“Did you check what items the Phoenix Jade Hall have lost?” Feng Hengkong said with furrowed brows.
Feng Xicheng respectfully replied: “What Hua Minghai stole the most were usually Purple Veined Heaven Crystals and Purple Veined Divine Crystals, however, the Purple Veined Heaven Crystals and Purple Veined Divine Crystals within the Phoenix Jade Hall did not decrease in the slightest, but… we are missing a half used stalk of Phoenix Helianthus. I’m assuming that it’s because the thief was in a panicked state after touching the protective profound formation, and randomly took any item before hurriedly escaping.”
“Half a Phoenix Helianthus?” Even though Phoenix Helianthus were rare, to Divine Phoenix Sect, they were not considered that precious of an item. Feng Hengkong snorted coldly: “Even though nothing really went missing, just the fact that he dared to charge into our Divine Phoenix Sect has brought upon his own destruction. From this day forth, investigate all tracks of Hua Minghai within the entire empire. It’s best if he were to be brought back alive, but if it’s difficult to capture him alive, kill him on the spot!”
“Yes! This son shall immediately give out the order. Even if that Hua Minghai has a heaven high ability, he should still never think about escaping the palms of our Divine Phoenix Sect.” Feng Xichen promised.
“Then this matter shall be given to you to handle. Whether or not Hua Minghai is able to safely enter and leave our Divine Phoenix, is worthy of being your test! Don’t let us down.”
“Yes, royal father, this son will definitely not let you down.”
Just as Feng Hengkong turned around to leave, his footsteps stopped at the doorway, and he said casually: “Before the start of the ranking tournament, Xue’er will be cultivating in seclusion within Phoenix Perching Valley. No matter who it is, even if it’s for an enormous matter, they are not allowed to take half a step in the surrounding twenty five kilometers around Phoenix Perching Valley! However, we are still a bit worried. When you are investigating Hua Minghai, arrange a few guards around the east, west, and north directions of Phoenix Perching Valley. Don’t let anyone approach. If anyone dares to bother Xue’er, no matter who it is, kill them on sight!”
“Yes, this son will immediately carry out the order.”
After Feng Hengkon left, Feng Xichen heaved a slight breath of relief. After a long period of silence, he once again became agitated. He paced back and forth in the hall for several tens of times before finally speaking with a low voice while creasing his brows: “Chihuo, come in!”
A streak of flame flashed, and a middle aged man around fifty or so years old appeared in front of Feng Xichen as if he had teleported there. He bowed: “Your Highness, what are your instructions?”
“Leave the palace at once, and go secretly search for a person named ‘Yun Che’ in Divine Phoenix City! He’s here to participate in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, and he’ll definitely appear within half a month… in fact, he may already be here. If you find him, assassinate him immediately… Remember, the more secretly you do it, the better. After you kill him, immediately destroy his corpse, it’s best if you leave no traces behind!” Feng Xichen said with an extremely evil expression.
“Yes, Your Highness.” Feng Chihuo nodded in answer.
“Remember, aside from you and me, no one is to know about this! Including my royal father.” Feng Xichen’s expression became grave.
Shock flashed past Feng Chihuo’s face, then, he nodded without the slightest hesitation: “This old servant will not disappoint Your Highness… This old servant shall take his leave.”
When Fen Chihuo left, Feng Xichen clenched both his hands as a sinister light of hatred flickered in his eyes. He said in a low voice: “Yun Che… Not being able to personally kill you myself, truly would make it hard for me to dispel my hatred! But you must die before the ranking tournament! Once Blue Wind Nation is exterminated, that time’s humiliation shall also be eternally buried beneath my feet!”
——————————————
The next day, Yun Che arrived at Divine Phoenix City’s Falling Flame Merchant Guild as per Zi Ji’s directions.
Only after he had arrived did Yun Che discover that this place was indeed as Zi Ji had said it was. Even though the name hung up ahead said “Merchant Guild”, it was not at all an orthodox merchant guild. Truthfully speaking, it resembled an underground market! And it wasn’t that big either. This stretch of area contained many similar type underground markets, and they all hung up the word “Merchant Guild.”
However, as long as he could buy a Phoenix Helianthus, it wasn’t really important whether it was a merchant guild or a black market.
From a dark remote alley, Yun Che saw the signboard engraved with the words “Falling Flame Merchant Guild”. Beneath the signboard gracefully stood a young woman in the prime of her youth. Seeing Yun Che approach, she took the initiative to welcome him: “Sir, are you here to participate in Falling Flame’s auction?”
“Yes, I’d like to ask miss to lead the way.” Yun Che said naturally. Back in Azure Cloud Continent, he had attended many black markets before. These sort of black markets were all places that pulled people in to make transactions, at the same time, they required one to pay a high “admission fee”.
The escorting young women stated: “Today’s Falling Flame Auction will be selling many rare treasures, so the admission fee is a bit higher than usual. It costs twenty purple profound coins.”
Twenty didn’t sound that high… but it was twenty purple profound coins, a full two hundred thousand yellow profound coins! And it was even just the “admission fee”!
Yun Che didn’t say anything further as he happily handed over twenty purple profound coins… The young lady in front of him absolutely would never think that there were millions upon millions of yellow profound coins on Yun Che’s chest.
“Sir, please follow me.”
The young woman accepted the purple profound coins, then brought Yun Che into a dark alley. After taking several turns on multiple roads, they walked into a concealed underground area. It was not wide, and there were only a total of thirty to forty chairs. At this time, around twenty something people were seated in a scattered fashion. Even though this place was remote and concealed, none of the clothes these people wore were not extremely luxurious… Those who were willing pay the high admission fee of twenty purple profound coins were in no way from a simple family.
When Yun Che came in, everyone present gave him a glance, one after the other. After perceiving that he was only at the Earth Profound Realm, their faces all revealed expressions of disdain. Then, they all turned their heads without bothering to take another look. Earth Profound Realm at not even the age of twenty was a rarely seen genius in Blue Wind Nation, but in Divine Phoenix Empire, it could only be reduced to a low-class individual. In the eyes of these upper class boasters, it was simply not worth mentioning.
Yun Che obviously did not bother to take note of anyone here, as he randomly picked a place to sit.
After Yun Che, no one else came in. Not long after, a charming voice came over: “Sirs, we have made you wait for a long time.”
A hidden door opened, and a well-developed graceful woman slowly walked out. Following behind her, was a gray haired elderly man. The woman wore a close-fitting black garment that revealed every inch of her curves, her beautiful eyes were like peach blossoms, bright and limpid as she looked at everyone present, and nearly stole their souls.
“Yo… my little Qi Qi, you’re finally here. I’ve been anxiously waiting for you.” A blue clothed young man stood up. His eyes fixed at the young woman, casting amorous glances her way.
“Hehe, hehe…” The woman covered her lips and giggled, then said charmingly: “Sir Gongsun is always this impatient. This one promises everyone that today’s treasures would not let anyone down. Sirs, you all should widen your eyes and watch me properly. Once we start bidding, don’t ever show mercy! Oh, right, Sirs who have come for the first time, this humble one is Xiao Qi, Falling Flame Auction’s host. You’ll have to visit often in the future, and come see me, okay?”
This Xiao Qi woman’s words were flirtatious, and her posture was alluring. Even though the men present still wore a deadpan look, their fingers fidgeted, and they secretly salivated. If one were to speak about those who were truly as calm as before, it would only be Yun Che alone… because the difference between his two wives and this enchantress was just too wide. She didn’t even arouse his male instinct, nor did she pique any of his interest.
“Has this lord ever let little Qi Qi down before?” The young man called “Sir Gongsun” gazed lustfully at Xiao Qi: “I just don’t know if you, little Qi Qi, is one of the treasures up for auction today? If yes, even if this lord has to lose all his property, he’ll still gladly make the purchase.”
“Hehe, Sir Gongsun’s so bad.” Xiao Qi held out her hand to cover her mouth, and gave Sir Gongsun an extremely flirtatious glance which directly made his entire body go limp.
Ten thousand grass mud horses galloped through Yun Che’s heart.
(TL: Grass Mud Horse (草泥马) is a homophone of Motherf*cker (操你妈), thus used as a pun here. It has developed into a slang nowadays.)
The auction then finally got back on topic. Xiao Qi extended a dark green jade case from the elderly man behind her. With both hands clasped on the jade case, her charming eyes swept past everyone present. She said with a laugh: “In this jade case, are two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows which contain the purest essence of an enormous purple crystal mine. If you use one to drive a profound ark, one Purple Crystal Jade Marrow could fuel a fifty thousand kilogram profound ark for two hundred hours. If you meld it onto a weapon with spiritual conscious, it could raise the weapon’s intelligence by a lot, you know.”
Purple Crystal Jade Marrow… could increase a weapon’s spiritual conscious?
Yun Che’s heart suddenly stirred. His Dragon Fault was exactly an Emperor Profound Weapon with a spiritual conscious, but its intelligence was not that high. Currently, it could only automatically return if it left his hand, and release a dragon cry if it was angry. If it possessed a stronger spiritual conscious, he would undoubtedly gain a great benefit.
He had only come for the Phoenix Helianthus, and never expected that he would run into this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow. Even though this underground auction was small, the things it sold were extremely remarkable, no wonder the admission fee was that high.
“Oh! It’s actually the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow!” That young man with the surname Gongsun revealed an excited expression: “This lord has been looking for this item for quite a while, I’d never thought that little Qi Qi has it in hand, and it’s even two of them… As expected of my little Qi Qi! Quick, speak. What is the lowest price for these two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows?”
As Xiao Qi held onto the jade case her charming eyes narrowed into thin slits: “Six hundred purple profound coins. Sir Gongsun ought to understand the preciousness of the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, so this price shouldn’t be considered expensive, right?”
“Six hundred… Mn, this price is indeed generous.” The young man surnamed Gongsun beamed, then executed a half turn while cupping his fists toward his surroundings: “Friends, this humble one is Holy Sword Sect’s Gongsun Yu, I urgently need this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow to raise my beloved sword’s spiritual conscious, and wish that every friend here can be generous enough to allow this humble one to have it.”
Once the words “Holy Sword Sect’s Gongsun Yu” came out, the expressions of many at the scene immediately changed, and the thoughts of bidding against him were also immediately pushed down. Holy Sword Sect could not compare with Divine Phoenix Sect, but it was also one of the famous sects within Divine Phoenix Empire, and a lord that should not be provoked within Divine Phoenix City. And this Gongsun Yi was also the youngest son of the current Holy Sword Sect Master.
A lazy voice sounded at this time: “Lil’ bro Gongsun, since it’s an auction, obviously the highest bidder would win. If you play like that, how’s Miss Xiao Qi going to do business? Miss Xiao Qi isn’t saying anything, but I can’t bear to look on.”
Gongsun Yu was not at all angry upon hearing these words. Instead, he laughed heartily, and cupped a hand toward the person who had spoken: “Brother Nalan’s right, this little brother was only momentarily delighted, and was somewhat overexcited. This absolutely won’t happen again.”
Once the word Nalan was heard, the faces of everyone present changed once more… The Nalan Family was also one of the big shots within Divine Phoenix City, and were even thousand year old friends with Holy Sword Sect. The one who spoke was personally named Nalan Xiong, his status within the Nalan Family was also incomparable great. He seemed to be reprimanding Gongsun Yu, but in fact, they were using the fame of their two families to exert pressure on others present, firmly making them not dare to bid against Gongsun Yu.
“Two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows for six hundred purple profound coins, I’ll take it.” Gongsun Yu said with a face full of smiles.
And at this time, an extremely ordinary, yet inharmonious voice suddenly sounded from one corner: “Seven hundred purple profound coins.”
Gongsun Yu’s brows suddenly tightened. He turned his head around, and his gaze landed on Yun Che’s body. He swept a glance at Yun Che’s profound strength cultivation, then, his eyes flashed with deep disdain… but if the other party was brave enough to bid against him, they might be from an illustrious family, so he didn’t dare to rashly offend him as he said without sounding upset: “Friend, it seems that you are not going to give me, Gongsun Yu, this face?”
Yun Che laughed faintly: “What I want is the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, what does that have to do with your face?”
The corner of Gongsun Yu’s mouth twitched. His complexion distinctly darkened as he sneered: “What you’re saying is quite right, an auction’s fight relies on strength, not face. Since you also want to obtain this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, then we’ll have to see if you have that ability… One thousand purple profound coins!”
Chapter 406 - Phoenix Helianthus
Gongsun Yu raised the price to one thousand purple profound coins in a single breath, then glared at Yun Che. If this was an auction in the Black Moon Merchant Guild, he would never dare to have the slightest bit of arrogance, but in this underground auction, with his Holy Sword Sect’s fame, he felt supremely qualified to be arrogant and overbearing. He absolutely did not expect that a mere Earth Profound Realm would dare to challenge his bid after his warning.
With Holy Sword Sect’s fame added to his great wealth and sudden increase in bid price, he thought that Yun Che would definitely be deterred, and did not expect the other party’s expression to not change at all as he called out with incomparable calm: “Eleven hundred purple profound coins!”
Casually calling out a bid more than a thousand purple profound coins was definitely not something one could do without a deep and powerful background. As a son of the Sect Master of Holy Sword Sect, Gongsun Yu received about twenty thousand profound coins yearly, which was was necessary for an entire year’s worth of training needs. Taking out one thousand to buy the two pieces of Purple Crystal Jade Marrow was already his limit, and had furthermore significantly exceeded the value of the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow. But having acted arrogantly before, yet was now mercilessly counterbidded, wouldn’t all his face be thrown away if he allowed himself to be so easily suppressed?
Gongsun Yu gritted his teeth anxiously, but maintained a calm facade as he called out: “Twelve hundred purple profound coins.”
“Fifteen hundred! Without the slightest pause or hesitation, Yun Che called out right after Gongsun Yu’s bid.
The faces of everyone in the room changed slightly, and Xiao Qi beamed like a flowering crabapple blossom. Previously she did not place much attention on Yun Che, but now the gaze she used upon Yun Che was tender, and her beautiful eyes almost started tearing up.
Gongsun Yu’s face finally became unsightly. Fifteen hundred purple profound coins was his expenditure for an entire month. Using that money to purchase two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows would have far surpassed his bottom line. Purple Veined Heaven Crystals were the purest of essence bred by purple profound crystal mines, and Purple Crystal Jade Marrows were only secondary. Fifteen hundred purple profound coins was enough to buy fifty grams of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals, so buying this purple crystal stone marrow was simply throwing away money.
He turned around and said with a fake smile: “Friend, judging by how heroic you are, I assume that you your family must be quite illustrious. It’s not as if this one is saying that he knows of every prominent family within Divine Phoenix City, but I probably know most of them, yet you are very unfamiliar. Are you from outside the city? Oh, judging by your attire, could you be a friend from one of the six nations?”
Yun Che obviously knew what this Gongsun Yu was intending to do. He inwardly sneered, and did not avoid the question as he directly answered: “Your assumption is correct. I am not a Divine Phoenix citizen, and instead is from the east Blue Wind Nation. But me coming from there doesn’t really have anything to do with this auction, right?”
Blue Wind citizen?
Everyone in the room had originally been guessing at where Yun Che had come from. They thought that since he had been so liberal with his money and was not afraid of challenging Gongsun Yu, his family background ought to be extraordinary. Now that they had heard he was actually from Blue Wind Nation, there were none who did not reveal expressions of extreme disdain, even so much that some had expressions of mockery. As citizens of Divine Phoenix Nation, they had an instinctive contempt for those of other nations. Furthermore, of the six nations, Blue Wind was the weakest. In their eyes, a Blue Wind citizen would always be people of a lower class.
“Oh… Oh! Hahahaha, looks like it’s a friend from Blue Wind Nation.” Gongsun Yu immediately laughed wildly as his previous unpleasant feeling of being suppressed by Yun Che was instantaneously swept clean: “No wonder you’re so set on this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, I’m assuming you’ve never seen such a high quality treasure in your Blue Wind Nation, right? Since that’s the case, then this one is obviously willing to give way… only this one is a bit curious, what do you need Purple Crystal Jade Marrows for? Could it be that your reason is the same as mine, to raise the spiritual conscious of your weapon? Oh, no, in your Blue Wind Nation, a Sky Profound Weapon ought to be the most valuable of treasures, so you can’t really use these Purple Crystal Jade Marrows for that. Besides, your profound strength is only at the Earth Profound Realm, hehe, it seems unlikely that you can even control a Sky Profound Weapon… As for being the power source of a profound ark… Eh? Blue Wind Nation actually has someone who is able to afford to operate a profound ark?”
The room immediately filled with unrestrained roars of laughter. In front of a Blue Wind citizen, even those at the lowest position would involuntarily have a kind of superior feeling. Why would they need to conceal their contempt for a lower class person?
After announcing that he was a Blue Wind citizen, Yun Che obviously knew that this kind of scene would arise. There was not a single change in his expression, and without bothering to talk rubbish with these people, he took out fifteen hundred purple profound coins, then received the jade case that contained two pieces of Purple Crystal Jade Marrow from Xiao Qi’s hands. Purple Crystal Jade Marrows of good quality were only produced from large purple crystal mines, and possessed a fixed amount of natural spiritual nature, so they ought to be able to increase a weapon’s spiritual conscious. It was just unknown as to how much of an extent it could raise. If the effects were distinct, then he’ll try to get some more.
And the following item for auction was the reason why Yun Che had come!
Xiao Qi took a jade case from the elderly man behind her, and said with a face full of smiles: “The second treasure is a medicinal ingredient. Even though it isn’t as grand as the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, it’s actually more uncommon than the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, you know.”
As she said that, Xiao Qi had already opened the jade case, and a flame shaped plant appeared in their line of sight with a flickering red radiance. Right after, the jade case was immediately closed, to prevent its medicinal aura from leaking.
“Oh, it’s actually a Phoenix Helianthus!” Someone exclaimed.
Hearing the two words “Phoenix Helianthus”, Yun Che’s gaze landed atop that jade case.. Looks like he could leave early.
“Right, this is the Phoenix Helianthus, and it’s even one that has just matured, a Phoenix Helianthus without the slightest of damage, you know.” Xiao Qi said while beaming: “Everyone here should know that not only is the Phoenix Helianthus used in medicine, used to refine the meridians, and temporarily open profound entrances, it also greatly helps those who cultivate in fire attribute profound arts break any bottlenecks. It’s just that once a Phoenix Helianthus appears, they’re always immediately taken away by Divine Phoenix Sect. And this one that I’m holding is the only Phoenix Helianthus in Divine Phoenix Empire that’s not of the Divine Phoenix Sect. You wouldn’t even be able to buy one in the Black Moon Merchant Guild… So, sirs, you mustn’t miss this opportunity! Otherwise, you’ll have to wait until next year at around this time to have the chance to buy it again.”
Xiao Qi’s words sounds somewhat exaggerated, but Yun Che knew that it was not at all false, because he had went to Black Moon Merchant Guild yesterday, and the Phoenix Helianthus was indeed not there. After Xiao Qi finished speaking, he immediately called out: “What’s the minimum price?”
Xiao Qi’s liquid eyes slightly shifted in Yun Che’s direction, she said softly: “Looks like this sir from Blue Wind Nation is also very interested in this Phoenix Helianthus. The minimum price for this Phoenix Helianthus is one thousand purple profound coins.”
Even though Phoenix Helianthus were rare, they were absolutely not first-rate medicine. Furthermore, in terms of using it in medicine, it was extremely troublesome and had a high leakage rate. In regards to those who cultivate in fire attribute profound arts, it wasn’t exactly that useful, so the price of a thousand purple profound coins was indeed too high. It was evident that the sky high price was due to it being “the last Phoenix Helianthus”, so those in the room did not show the least bit interest. But as soon as Xiao Qi finished her sentence, Yun Che followed up: “Two thousand purple profound coins, I’ll take it!”
With ten million purple profound coins at his disposal, Yun Che’s confidence was incomparably ample. He only wanted to quickly take this Phoenix Helianthus, and didn’t want to waste any more time… the ranking tournament would start in half a month. To him, every minute and every second was extremely precious.
“The hell!” Many people at the scene muttered out.
Spent one thousand five hundred profound coins to buy two pieces of Purple Crystal Jade Marrow… and now readily buying one Phoenix Helianthus for two thousand purple profound coins…
Was this Blue Wind brat rich or was his brain messed up!?
After announcing that it was one thousand purple profound coins, Xiao Qi was extremely nervous at heart, because she knew that this price was indeed a bit too high. But she never expected that as soon as she finished speaking, the price would directly double! She instantly burst with joy, and even her face had become brighter. “To have immediately bid two thousand purple profound coins, this sir from Blue Wind Nation is indeed magnanimous. This one just so happens to like this type of gentleman… Is there anyone else who wishes to put forth a higher price? This is this year’s last Phoenix Helianthus, you know. If you miss this opportunity, even if you have even more money, you can’t buy anymore…”
The others were all quiet… What a joke, aside from a fire attribute profound art reaching a bottleneck or someone urgently needing to refine an important medicine, who would spend more than two thousand purple profound coins to buy a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus? Seeing that no one replied, Xiao Qi walked toward Yun Che while beaming: “Congratulations, Sir. This Phoenix Helianthus is yours, you’d better hold properly!”
Yun Che cleanly handed over two thousand purple profound coins, and then took the jade case containing the Phoenix Helianthus… With the Phoenix Helianthus in his possession, today’s objective had already been reached. What came next, was only him finding a place to refine the Universal Pellet with the Sky Poison Pearl. After that, he would use two or three days to refine it. His profound strength ought to reach the pinnacle of the Earth Profound Realm, which would greatly help when he faced off against the Divine Phoenix Sect.
As for the things being sold next, he was no longer interested. Just as Yun Che was preparing to leave, a loud laughter came from outside: “Hahahaha! Miss Xiao Qi, I’m so sorry, I met a few people who didn’t have their eyes opened on the road, so I taught them a little lesson, which is why I’m late. I hope Miss Xiao Qi doesn’t take offense.”
This sound was thick and heavy, and was clearly filled with might. Following the sound of this voice, a tall and sturdy figure wearing light armor strided in. This person appeared to be around thirty years old, even though his build could not compare with Xia Yuanba’s, it was still especially burly. Especially his exposed muscles, each and every one of them bulged up high, and they seemed to flicker with a luster similar to that of metal, making those who had only used their eyes to glance upon him feel an explosive strength.
His hair was red, and each of its strands stood erect towards the sky like an ignited flame. His body also emitted a thick aura of a fire attribute profound art.
As soon as this tall man appeared, the faces of everyone in the room distinctively changed, even the expression of the previously arrogant Gongsun Yu tightened, revealing a deep fear.
When Xiao Qi saw this person, it was as if she saw her biological father. All her facial features beamed with a smile as she gracefully moved up to welcome him: “Aiyo! Sir Zhi, what’re you saying? You coming here is an honor built by all of this one’s lifetime incarnations, how could I possible blame you… Come, Sir Zhi, quickly come up and have a seat. The auction has only just begun, the highlight of today has not come yet. I believe Sir Zhi would definitely be interested in today’s highlight, you definitely did not come here in vain!”
“Who’s this guy that’s so arrogant looking?” A person seated to Yun Che’s right asked his companion in a low voice.
“Didn’t you hear Miss Xiao Qi call him ‘Sir Zhi’!? He’s obviously someone from Roasting Sun Sect!”
“What! Roasting Sun Sect? Divine Phoenix Empire’s number two sect, second only to the Divine Phoenix Sect?”
“Right! This person is named Zhi Yan, seventh young master of Roasting Sun Sect! His innate talent is extremely monstrous. He’s only twenty eight this year, and is already half a step into the Emperor Profound Realm. It has even been said that he’s already going for the Emperor Profound Realm! In Divine Phoenix Empire, aside from the Divine Phoenix Sect, there is no one who would dare provoke him.”
“The highlight Miss Xiao Qi speaks of obviously needs to be seen, but the main reason why this young master came here today is for the Phoenix Helianthus in Miss Xiao Qi’s hands.” Zhi Yan said loftily: “This young master’s Emperor Profound bottleneck has already loosened, and breaking through is near at hand. I urgently need a Phoenix Helianthus to assist me, but that wretch Divine Phoenix Sect has already swept up all the Phoenix Helianthus. Fortunately, Miss Xiao Qi just happens to have one here. This Phoenix Helianthus, this young master here is taking it for sure. If anyone wants to fight over it with this young master… hehe.”
What kind of person Zhi Yan was had nothing to do with Yun Che. He had already gotten up from his seat and was about to turn around and leave, but once he heard the two words “Phoenix Helianthus” from Zhi Yan’s mouth, Yun Che’s steps immediately halted…
Son of a bitch!
Chapter 407 - Overbearing
Xiao Qi totally didn’t know that Zhi Yan came for the Phoenix Helianthus, otherwise, she definitely would not have sold it before his arrival. However, she was not the least bit panicked as she laughed: “Looks like Sir Zhi just happens to need a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus, you should’ve told me earlier, you know. As long as Sir Zhi opens his mouth, this one would’ve personally delivered it to you at your doorsteps. But unfortunately, the Phoenix Helianthus in this one’s hands has just been sold to another gentleman right before your arrival.”
“What! Sold!?” Zhi Yan’s expression changed as irritation filled his voice: “Sold to who! Who bought it?! It’s the last Phoenix Helianthus, I have to have it no matter what, even if I have to fight for it! Quick, tell me, who did you sell it to?!”
A delighted expression surfaced on the faces of everyone in the room, eyes of mockery all successively shifted towards Yun Che. Xiao Qi said with a smile: “Don’t worry Sir Zhi, the gentleman who just bought the Phoenix Helianthus is still here. Sir Zhi can still have a nice discussion with him. Why, maybe he would even be willing to transfer it to you.”
Xiao Qi slightly turned and swung a hand in Yun Che’s direction: “It’s this gentleman who purchased the last Phoenix Helianthus from this one’s hands for two thousand purple profound coins. Whether or not this gentleman wishes to transfer it to you will depend on Sir Zhi.”
Zhi Yan’s gaze instantly shifted toward Yun Che. After probing his profound strength cultivation, an incomparably clear disdain hug on his face. He came over with huge strides as his entire body released a mighty pressure that would even make a middle stage Sky Profound practitioner find it difficult to breathe: “You’re the one who bought the Phoenix Helianthus? Hmph, you have also heard what I just said earlier. Give the Phoenix Helianthus in your hands to me. Don’t worry, I won’t give you a coin less than the money you used to purchase the Phoenix Helianthus, or else people will say that my Roasting Sun Sect bullies the weak!”
From Zhi Yan’s manner of speaking, he was absolutely not discussing, rather, he was roughly commanding him in a typical tone of voice that came from a strong practitioner to a weak. Yun Che’s expression did not change as he said indifferently: “My apologies, this Phoenix Helianthus is extremely important to me, I won’t be transferring it to you.”
“Hm?” Zhi Yan clearly had never thought that a weak practitioner at merely the Earth Profound Realm would actually dare refuse him, even under the premise that he would not pay a coin less. He didn’t immediately explode, turning his head, he said to Xiao Qi: “Where’s this kid from? Seems like he’s not willing to give me face!”
Before Xiao Qi could reply, Gongsun Yu said delightfully: “Seventh Young Master Zhi, this kid’s obviously not from any ordinary background, or else how could he dare have the confidence to not yield to Seventh Young Master Zhi. Tsk tsk, he’s actually an esteemed guest from the eastern Blue Wind Nation. Hehe, against this esteemed guest from another nation, Seventh Young Master Zhi treat him a bit gentler, in the manner of our great nation, of course.”
“Blue Wind Nation? Hahahaha…”
Once he heard the name “Blue Wind Nation”, Zhi Yan started laughing right away… Previously, when Yun Che had revealed that he was from Blue Wind Nation, Gongsun Yu and company had all erupted in laughter as well, as if the name “Blue Wind Nation” was not a nation’s name, but rather synonymous with a joke.
Growing up in Blue Wind Nation, Yun Che never really felt it, but once he arrived in Divine Phoenix Empire, that was when he realized how much of a miserable existence Blue Wind Nation’s status was in the Profound Sky Continent. Only the words “lowly”, and even “ridiculous” could be used to describe it. He had finally understood why Cang Wanhe had such a deeply resigned, frustrated, and grieved expression on his face when he mentioned the “Seven Nation Ranking Tournament…
People usually had a protective instinct toward their native homeland, and Yun Che obviously was not an exception. The nation he had grown up in was being willfully sneered at and held in contempt by these people as a completely inferior nation… He was incapable of not being filled with rage. However, compared to Divine Phoenix Empire, Blue Wind Nation was indeed just too weak. The disparity between them was like a lamb and a male lion, this was an inevitable fact.
Zhi Yan originally was afraid that Yun Che’s background was extraordinary, which would cause him trouble, but now that he knew Yun Che was from Blue Wind Nation, why would he feel the least bit worried? He said overbearingly: “Kid! This young master’s patience is awfully limited, hurry up and give me the Phoenix Helianthus. If this young master loses all his patience, don’t even mention the Phoenix Helianthus, you won’t even be getting half a profound coin back.”
“Heh! Kid, what kind of status does Seventh Young Master Zhi have? Him agreeing to even speak to you is already a great honor, you’d better not fail to appreciate his kindness.” Gongsun Yu sarcastically said on the side.
Xiao Qi quickly faced Yun Che, and said softly: “Sir, Sir Zhi urgently needs this Phoenix Helianthus, so just give it to him. I believe that Sir Zhi will definitely be grateful, and maybe you two might even become friends!”
Yun Che narrowed his eyes, his voice was still extremely flat: “I said it before, I need this Phoenix Helianthus, not transferring.”
“Very well… Looks like you’re refusing a toast and want to drink some punishment wine instead! I’ll ask you one last time, are you going to give it to me or not?!” All the muscles on Zhi Yan’s body bunched up as his face filled with anger.
Yun Che said coldly: “I was the one who bought the Phoenix Helianthus, so it already belongs to me. I have the final say in what will be done to it! And it’s not you telling me to give, that I’ll give! If you want a Phoenix Helianthus, go look elsewhere, I don’t have time to keep you company.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che immediately turned around with the intent to leave.
“You have the final say? Hahahaha…” Zhi Yan laughed wildly: “Naive kid, your daddy here will properly give you a lesson today. No matter what, in this world, it’s always the one with the harder fist who has the final say!”
Zhi Yan extended a hand, grabbing toward Yun Che’s shoulder. His arm was much more thicker than Yun Che’s thigh. In comparison, Yun Che’s build was simply too frail, as if it was not able to withstand a single blow. He laughed evilly, and just as he was about to grab at Yun Che’s shoulder to lift him up, when he used force, Yun Che actually did not move one bit. Zhi Yan’s eyes widened. The muscles on his arms instantly bulged as his veins popped out and he fiercely lifted… yet Yun Che’s body still did not move one bit. Let alone being lifted, he didn’t even move a single step.
Zhi Yan was inwardly shocked. Even though he faintly sensed that this was unusual, he got even more angrier as he said in exasperation: “I’ll let you have a taste of how hard your daddy’s fists are!”
He released his hand from Yun Che’s shoulder, then formed his grip into a fist. His fist ignited with purple flame as he violently punched toward Yun Che. Beneath the faint agitation, he used no less than ninety nine percent of his strength in this fist, not caring at all if Yun Che died on the spot… The other party was only an inferior profound practitioner from Blue Wind Nation anyway, even if he died, there would be no repercussions.
“Sir Zhi!” Zhi Yan’s actions made Xiao Qi let out an alarmed cry. The others were also shocked. The entire room screeched with profound energy under Zhi Yan’s fist, and it was obvious that he had used all of his strength… No one present had the confidence that they could withstand this fist, and it was very likely that Yun Che would directly become meat paste after this strike.
Bang!!
Zhi Yan’s purple flame ignited fist firmly smashed onto Yun Che’s chest, and released an extremely dull thud. Under the dispersing profound energy, the entire room violently trembled and all the chairs that were not sat on all shattered without exception. A long crack had even appeared on the marble tiles beneath their feet.
How could the strength from someone half a step into the Emperor Profound Realm be minor? It made everyone present tremble with fear. In their apprehension, they were even more shocked that Zhi Yan would use such a heavy hand toward a mere Earth Profound practitioner from Blue Wind Nation. This seemed to be a bit too much, but once they glanced toward Yun Che, they were instantly dumbfounded and they did not dare to believe their own eyes.
Zhi Yan’s hand was still on Yun Che’s chest, but Yun Che wasn’t knocked flying at all. He didn’t even move back half a step, nor did his expression change at all. Instead, the face of Zhi Yan in front of him that was originally filled with arrogance, was unexpectedly covered with an extremely twisted expression… At this time, the light armor on his right arm was suddenly shattered into fragments. Streams and streams of blood rushed out like a flood released from a dam, instantly dyeing his entire arm red.
It was as if Zhi Yan had woken up from a nightmare. He stumbled backwards, and grasped at his perception that he had already lost as his right arm drooped down. He let out a painful moan that he tried his best to stifle as both his pupils enlarged, brimming with deep terror: “You… You…”
“This fist of yours doesn’t seem to be that great.” Yun Che extended a hand and patted the clothes on his chest with a revulsed face. Then, his expression suddenly turned cold as he smashed a fist at Zhi Yan.
Zhi Yan instinctively held out his left arm to block it, but with Yun Che’s Great Way of the Buddha, even if he didn’t use profound energy, his raw arm strength reached up to a terrifying ten thousand kilograms. How was Zhi Yan capable of blocking it? Only a “crack” was heard as Zhi Yan’s arm bones were broken into several pieces. He let out a miserable shriek like that of a dying pig as he was ferociously struck flying, and his entire body sunk deep into the stone wall in the back.
No matter what, they had never expected this kind of scene. Everyone were was stupefied on the spot… What kind of status did Zhi Yan have? What kind of monstrosity was he?! Seventh Young Master of Roasting Sun Sect, half a step into the Emperor Profound at twenty eight years of age! He instantly suffered a crushing defeat beneath Yun Che’s hand, and could not fight back at all!
It was absolutely not because Zhi Yan was weak, or that he had held back; the fist he smashed at Yun Che obviously contained all his strength… Instead, it was because the strength of this Blue Wind practitioner, that they had held in contempt and ridicule, was just too terrifying! Zhi Yan’s attack that contained all his strength had actually not harmed a single hair on his body! Yet his casual fist, had directly shattered the bones on Zhi Yan’s arm… What kind of terrifying body and strength was that?!
A chill rushed up their back… they had always been looking down and sneering at such a terrifying freak! Especially Gongsun Yu, his entire person sat glued to his seat, his complexion was deathly white, and under his shock, his body did not dare to move a single inch.
Yun Che’s figure swayed, and then had already arrived at Zhi Yan’s front. He extended his arm to grab at his throat; as though he was lifting a chick, Zhi Yan’s robust body was directly pulled out from the stone wall, then was fiercely smashed on the ground. He lowered his gaze to look at the bloody-faced Zhi Yan and said indifferently: “Do you still want the Phoenix Helianthus in my hands?”
Before Zhi Yan regained his senses, he had already been directly smashed into serious injuries by Yun Che. He laid on the ground, gasping for breath: “I am… Roasting Sun Sect’s Seventh Young Master… If… If you dare to touch me, Roasting Sun Sect… will never let you get away with it!”
Yun Che narrowed his eyes, and laughed coldly: “Your words are not bad, the one with the harder fist is the one who has the final say in all matters of this world. Yet someone who does not have enough power still dares to be arrogant, now that’s seeking death!!”
As Yun Che’s voice fell, he stomped a leg onto Zhi Yan’s chest. Zhi Yan’s eyes bulged out as he violently spurted out a spray of blood.
“Stop!!”
The gray haired elderly man who had always stood behind Xiao Qi yelled out, and suddenly took action. A streak of cold light launched toward Yun Che… immediately after, a Throne level might enveloped the entire room. Since the matter had grown to such a state, he definitely could not watch on without lifting a finger. Otherwise, if something permanent happened to Zhi Yan, it was extremely possible for Roasting Sun Sect to take out their anger on Falling Flame Merchant Guild.
“Get out of the way!”
Even though this gray haired old man was a genuine Throne, he was only at the first level of the Emperor Profound Realm, a low level Throne. To Yun Che, he was simply not a threat at all. Without even turning his head, he flung out his arm and a Phoenix Break broke through the air, colliding with that streak of cold light. The cold light completely dispersed instantly, yet Phoenix Break had not diminished at all as it directly smashed at the elderly man’s chest. Startled, the old man hurriedly blocked. After retreating seven or eight steps back, did he barely manage to withstand Phoenix Break’s might. However, both his sleeves had been burnt to a crisp.
“This is… phoenix flame!” The elderly man said in shock: “You’re from the Divine Phoenix Sect!”
Everyone clearly saw and felt the phoenix flame Yun Che had flung out. That was undoubtedly the phoenix flame, it was impossible to falsify, and phoenix flame was a profound flame that only the Divine Phoenix Sect possessed! Someone who was capable of releasing phoenix flames could only be a member of the Divine Phoenix Sect! A person at the pinnacle of the entire Divine Phoenix Empire!
“Hmph!” Yun Che snorted coldly. He didn’t reply, and obviously was not dumb enough to deny it.
Zhi Yao knew that he had kicked upon an iron plate. Under his remaining shock, all he thought was how he was going to dismember Yun Che’s body into ten thousand pieces someday. But once he personally saw Yun Che fling out that phoenix flame, his entire body trembled acutely… He would never be able to return this hatred. Divine Phoenix Sect was an existence that Roasting Sun Sect absolutely could not afford to provoke. His Roasting Sun Sect was known as the number two sect in Divine Phoenix, but the difference in strength between the two was as different as the sky and earth.
“So… So it’s a brother from the Divine Phoenix Sect… It was I, who had eyes but did not see. These injuries are not at all unjust…” Zhi Yan had on a begging attitude. How could he possibly be the least bit arrogant and forceful? “If I had known earlier that it was a brother from Divine Phoenix Sect… even if I had guts as large as the sky, I wouldn’t dare to offend you… If brother doesn’t feel satisfied, please leave me your sound transmission imprint. I… I will personally visit with a gift to apologize another day…”
Being beaten until his bones were shattered, organs receiving injuries, yet still needed to anxiously apologize. This was the huge deterrence and influence Divine Phoenix Sect had in Divine Phoenix Empire. Everyone else in the room had already stood up, and firmly stood in place. They did not even dare to breath in too deeply as they looked at Yun Che with eyes filled with reverence. As for Gongsun Yu, who had been continuously sneering at Yun Che, he was sweating profusely. Both his legs quaked and it seemed as if they would collapse at any time.
That elderly man stepped forward and said while trembling: “For an esteemed customer from Divine Phoenix Sect to be here, this old man had eyes but failed to recognize Mt. Tai, and even allowed esteemed customer to be disturbed. I truly… deserve death… Xiao Qi, what are you staring blankly for? Why haven’t you given him back his profound coins?”
“Ye… yes.” Xiao Qi was also somewhat pale with nervousness as she fumbled to get the purple profound coins.
“No need.” Yun Che moved his leg away from Zhi Yan’s chest, “You don’t need to be that nervous. I am not the type of trash near my feet that relies on force to bully another. As long as others don’t provoke me, I won’t bother to provoke others… You may continue.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che no longer paid any attention to anyone as he turned around and walked toward the exit. Everyone followed him with his eyes as he stepped out while secretly heaving a sigh of relief. No one dared to say anything, lest it catch his attention.
Once he arrived in front of Gongsun Yu, Yun Che suddenly tilted his head and coldly looked him in the eye. With a startled cry, both of Gongsun Yu’s legs went limp as he fell on the ground with his butt… Only until Yun Che had walked very far away did he recover his senses. He had nearly lost control of his bladder.
Divine Phoenix Sect ruled over Divine Phoenix Nation for five thousand years, its fame had long been well-established. It’s deterrent force was at a level that other nations were unable to understand… Yun Che couldn’t help but sigh in his heart. If the Blue Wind Emperor was also this strong, the previous turmoil in the imperial family wouldn’t have happened.
Just as he was about to exit the room, a peculiar sensation suddenly came from behind. Yun Che’s footsteps paused, and instantly turned around. Seeing every face filled with reverence, with a few terrified ones, his gaze briefly swept past each and every person. After slightly knitting his brows, he left with slow steps.
Chapter 408 - What Kind of a God
Upon exiting Falling Flame Merchant Guild, Yun Che’s figure quickly submerged into the stream of people within Divine Phoenix City’s streets. With the Phoenix Helianthus already in hand, what he had to do next was not complicated, which was finding a quiet place where he would not be disturbed.
At this time, the advancing Yun Che’s footsteps suddenly stopped as he turned around as fast as lightning. His sharp eyes sweep his rear, but his gaze didn’t find anything different, even that minute strand of sensation had also faded away without a trace.
Was he mistaken?
Impossible, how could he possible be mistaken when it came to things like this.
For example, he felt a peculiar gaze staring at him for an instant earlier. Before he left Falling Flame Merchant Guild, he had also felt the same sensation. This kind of sensation did not come from his perception, instead, it was “instinct”.
It was an acquired instinct born from after being hunted down to the brink of life and death!
If this sort of feeling came from his perception, it could perhaps be his misconception. But since it was a kind of “instinct”, it definitely could not be wrong, because it had saved Yun Che’s life many times before.
However, Yun Che’s lightning fast reaction that searched for the origin of this sensation had actually not gained any profit.
If he wasn’t mistaken, then that could only mean… that the other party was hiding his abilities, and was at a terrifying high level. In the Profound Sky Continent, this was the first time Yun Che could not sense his target’s existence after his detection.
Who exactly is it… why are they staring at me? In Divine Phoenix City, there shouldn’t be anyone who would recognize me.
“Jasmine, do you sense anyone following me?” Yun Che said in a low voice.
“Jasmine?”
“Sleeping… don’t bother me!”
“……”
Yun Che wrinkled his nose, withdrew his gaze, and directly advanced onward.
A barely noticeable figure not even sixty meters away behind Yun Che slowly raised his head from within the stream of people. His eyes flashed with amazement.
An hour later, Yun Che returned to the inn he had stayed in last night. In this already packed Divine Phoenix city, finding an inn to stay in was indeed extremely difficult, but as long as one was wealthy, even if the population were to double, there still wouldn’t be a problem. The guest room Yun Che stayed in was obtained by him paying thirty times the original price from someone who failed to show up.
“Dear guest, you’ve returned, do you want to go back in your room to take a rest or do you want to have a meal?”
As soon as Yun Che returned back to the inn, a handsome waiter diligently welcomed him. Those who were able stay at such a luxurious inn at this time were all wealth god-like figures, so he obviously had to do his utmost to thoroughly serve him.
“Make me dinner a bit later today, before it gets dark, deliver it directly to my room.” Yun Che replied.
“Alrightie, have a nice rest. Dear guest, if you have any requests, feel free to call out at anytime.” The waiter said politely.
After Yun Che returned to his room, he actually did not go according to his previous plan of immediately beginning to refine the Sky Profound Universal Pellet. Instead, he closed the door, and laid on the bed to sleep. He seemed to be quite exhausted, because not long after he laid down, the sound of snoring gradually surfaced as he entered dreamland.
Yun Che directly slept from the afternoon to evening. It was exactly at this time that a wisp of noiseless and odorless smoke that was unable to be seen with the naked eye slowly floated in from corner of the room’s rear window, and blended in with the air in the room. Yun Che was still sleeping and still snoring. His breathing was even, without the least bit reaction to everything happening.
The light smoke stopped after several tens of breaths. Everything was silent, without any indication that something had happened.
Half a quarter of an hour later, Yun Che’s door was struck.
“Dear guest, the dinner you wanted is here.”
Yun Che was still heavily sleeping, without the slightest of reaction.
“Dear guest… Dear guest? Are you in there?”
The waiter gave the door a soft push. The door had only been closed, not locked, so it opened with one push. The waiter hesitated for a bit, then carefully pushed open the room and came in carrying the dinner.
The sound of the waiter’s footsteps were rather heavy, and the porcelain on tray in his hand also made clashing noises, but the Yun Che laying on the bed continued to not respond. It was evident that he was dead asleep. The waiter put the tray on the table, and after his eyes swept past Yun Che for a while, he slowly walked in Yun Che’s direction. Only this time, his footsteps… were actually noiseless, and his cautious gaze from before changed to that of water’s tranquility.
Yun Che’s breathing was steady, and he was dead asleep. All the sense organs on his body showed not the the slightest sliver of movement. After confirming these, the waiter’s cautious expression loosened a bit. He came over to Yun Che’s bed and reached out his hand to grab at Yun Che’s spatial ring.
In the exact instant his fingers were about to touch Yun Che, Yun Che’s hand suddenly shot out like lightning and grabbed onto the waiter’s wrist. At the same time, his eyes that were closed for an entire afternoon also suddenly opened.
How large of a power did Yun Che’s grip possess? Even if it were a Throne that had been grabbed like this, they fundamentally should not think of easily struggling free. But when Yun Che was about to solidly grab him, he suddenly felt something slip from his palms, as if he had not grabbed onto an arm, but rather a fish! The arm that he had a solid grip on earlier suddenly slipped free from the palm of his hands. Immediately after, the inn’s water jumped up with incomparable nimbleness and dashed out the bamboo window, fleeing away flying.
Yun Che originally wanted to give chase, but as soon as he took a step forward, he stopped, and stared ahead in a daze… because this person’s speed was just too fast, fast to such a level that it was inconceivable. He only used the short time of an instant to escape from his grip, then nimbly flew out, and that was also something that only took an instant to happen. This person’s silhouette had already become a small dot within his line of sight…
His profound strength was not that strong, it was more or less at the middle stages of the Sky Profound Realm, but the speed he displayed completely surpassed Sky Profound level. It was even faster than the Snow Phoenix Beast by several times… the fastest person Yun Che had ever seen in the Profound Sky Continent.
A flurry of hurried footsteps sounded, and the inn’s waiter opened the door upon hearing the noise from earlier. He asked in alarm: “Dear guest, what happened?”
The waiter before him looked exactly the same as the waiter that had fled. Even his expressions and voice practically had no differences. Yun Che shook his head: “Nothing. Tell someone to help me fix the window. I will pay for the damaged window.”
After telling the inn’s waiter to leave, Yun Che stood by the window side, eyed the spatial ring in his hand, and pondered for a while. He wore the spatial ring to conceal the Sky Poison Pearl, nothing was actually in there. Looks like he was not mistaken about his previous feeling that someone had been tailing him. And this person’s tailing, concealment, ability to easily change appearance and voice, and even his ability to place a sleeping mist could be said to be in a top-notch realm. His ability to escape had given Yun Che a direct blow, and his speed was quick to the extreme…
What kind of person was he? Why was he targeting me?
The first time he felt like someone had been staring at him was back when he was about to leave Falling Flame Merchant Guild. Which meant that this person was also inside Falling Flame Merchant Guild, and was within the group of people present…
Yun Che’s brows sunk… The changing of appearance and voice, sleeping mist, ability to escape and speed… They were clearly all skills of an expert thief! And being targeted by such a frightening thief obviously was not a light matter. This thief had tailed him back the entire way, and had even schemed this hard, it was evident that he possessed something that this thief was extremely interested in. Then… he probably wouldn’t give up after failing once. He ought to be coming back again.
Not long after, the window repairmen arrived. Yun left the inn. After thinking for a while, he headed straight for the direction of Falling Flame Merchant Guild. Since that person had followed him, then he probably had left closely after his departure from Falling Flame Merchant Guild. This meant that he could only inquire about who had left after him and perhaps discover something.
Dusk had already fallen, yet the streets were still as clamorous as before. Upon reaching the Falling Flame Merchant Guild area, did it become secluded. Yun Che chose to walk on a few streets with few pedestrians, and at this time, the shriek of a young woman sounded: “Save me… Save me…”
“Hehehehe, you’ve fallen into this great lord’s hands, yet you’re thinking of escaping! Hahahaha…”
At a corner in front of him, a young woman was hurriedly running over. The young woman was dressed in blue. With a peach blossom face and a pair of clear eyes, she could be considered a beauty that would enchant a man instantly, and make him feel tenderness. Behind her was a middle aged man with a solid stature who was leisurely chasing after her. Lewd laughs came out from his mouth, as though he was currently playing a cat catch mouse game.
That young woman looked at Yun Che as if she had sudden found the last straw of hope from within her despair. She ran over as if her life depended on it, hid behind Yun Che, and pleaded: “Sir, please be merciful and save me, that evil bully, he… he was improper toward me… Sir, please save me…”
Yun Che held out a hand, hid the woman behind him, and then coldly looked at the man who chased over before his eyes. He said righteously: “Don’t be scared miss, with me here, that guy should not even think of touching a single strand on your hair… Sigh! In the peaceful broad moonlight where everything is clear, you actually dare to openly assault a woman of good family on the street, you’re audacious to the extreme, and simply unforgivable.”
“Hahahaha!” That middle aged man laughed heartily: “Kid, you haven’t even grown any hair, yet you even dare to copy other people’s ‘hero saving a beauty’? Hurry up and scram outta this daddy’s sight, otherwise, this daddy’ll take care of you first.”
“You’re seeking death!” Yun Che was furious. With just one step, he smashed his fist out. The sound of a deafening screech immediately followed his clenched fists that ruthlessly struck the middle age man’s chest. The middle aged man’s eyes abruptly widened as he smothered a groan and flew out into the distance, then fainted on the spot.
“Ah…” That young woman immediately let out a surprised cry.
“Hmph!” Yun Che withdrew his hand and said in disdain: “Just with this much of an ability, yet dares to come out to do evil, he’s truly bringing about his own doom.” He turned around and said in concern: “Miss, are you okay?”
That young lady saluted fully and said in a sobbing voice filled with fear and appreciation: “Sir, thank you for saving me… May I ask for sir’s great name? This little one will definitely pay back your great kindness.”
“Heh heh, it was barely any effort, don’t worry about it.” Yun Che said casually. His gaze fell downward, revealing an appreciative gaze for beautiful women: “May I ask for this miss’s name?”
The young woman said softly: “This little one is named Yan Xiaohua.”
“Yan Xiaohua…” Yun Che beamed: “Miss is so beautiful and doesn’t even cultivate in the profound. It’s too dangerous for you to be outside alone, you’d best be a bit more careful in the future.”
The young woman sighed as she revealed a grieved expression: “This little one usually stays inside her chambers and rarely goes out. But today, my father…”
Just as the young woman was in the middle of her narration, Yun Che, who had been quietly listening attentively, suddenly smashed a palm toward the young woman’s chest. The distance between the two was not even three feet and the palm Yun Che shot out was done without warning, so not only was the other party preoccupied in her narration, a young woman also should not have the ability to dodge this strike.
Bang!
However, even with such a suddenly strike, Yun Che actually hit thin air.
A deafening sound resounded, immediately jolting the surrounding space into trembling. The young woman before him had disappeared, only leaving an afterimage that had not faded. As for the true body, it had already shifted three meters away in that short instant, then fled far away as quick as lightning.
He had previously escaped from Yun Che’s hands before, but how could Yun Che possible allow himself to fail once again? In the very instant he felt that he had struck empty air, he had already reacted in a split second…
“Dragon Soul Domain!!”
A sky shaking dragon cry resounded as the surrounding one hundred fifteen meter of space around him was instantly enveloped in the mighty pressure of an undefiable dragon’s soul. The entire body of the escaping “young woman” quaked, as she revealed an expression of terror. She had powerlessly fallen from the air… and just as she was about to fall to the ground, Yun Che had already quickly launched a Phoenix Break at her chest.
Poof!!
The protective clothing worn by the “young woman” instantly shattered, as she spat out a long bloody arrow and heavily landed on the ground. Yun Che’s figure swayed, then he was already at her side. He stepped on the core of her profound veins, not allowing her to channel profound energy.
“Who exactly are you, why are you targeting me?!” Yun Che asked coldly, yet the waves in his heart could not be quieten down. Under that sort of situation, Yun Che believed that even if it was he himself, it was probably impossible for him to dodge his abrupt strike earlier, yet not a corner of this person’s clothes had been touched.
He could help but acknowledge that if it were not for the fact that he possessed the heaven defying Dragon Soul Domain, it would be impossible for him to capture this ghost-like person.
“Heh heh…”
The “young woman” opened her mouth, and what came out was clearly a man’s voice. He wasn’t resentful, nor was he angry, instead, he was laughing with a tranquil expression: “In all my life… I had never fallen… Even eight Overlords who have chased me for seven days and seven nights had ever touched a single hair on my head… Yet today… I had actually fallen at you… a mere Earth Profound kid’s hand… I can’t help but say one word… Impressive…”
Yun Che was inwardly startled… Escaping the pursuit of eight Overlords for seven days and seven nights without a single injury. In the entire Profound Sky Continent, how many people could do that? And to even make a full eight Overlords not hesitate to team up to kill him… What kind of a god was this person beneath his feet?!
Chapter 409 - One Kneel
“You don’t have bother saying all that to distract me.” Yun Che said coldly as he exerted more pressure on the body beneath his foot: “Give me the medicinal powder in your hands too. A mere illusion poison like Dream Butterfly is useless against me!”
The “young woman’s” pupils suddenly seemed to contract for a split second as she felt the danger of the situation. The person in front of her had eyes like ice mirrors, it was the first time in her life she had felt such a dreadful sensation of not being able to hide. What she said about being chased by Overlords was exactly for the purpose of distracting Yun Che, and there was indeed a poison powder between the gaps of her right hand fingers.
All these, had actually been seen through!
Especially the Dream Butterfly, which was an odorless and formless hallucinogen, that was between tightly gripped between her fingers without the slightest hint of being visible… it had actually been called out!
“Who… exactly are you?” The “young woman” asked: “You’re obviously not from the Divine Phoenix Sect, yet you can utilize phoenix flames… You ought to truly have come from Blue Wind Nation… But how can Blue Wind Nation have such a person like you…”
Yun Che’s gaze was crystal clear, and only gazed at him coldly. The person beneath his foot knew that she did not have the right to question him, and barely managed to gasp out: “My disguise had never been seen through by anyone… Can you tell me how exactly you saw me through?”
“I can’t compare to your ability to conceal your tracks, aura, and sound,” Yun Che said indifferently, “But in terms of appearance, you are only a bit worse. As long as it’s within six meters of me, if a person was disguising his looks, I can easily see through it with just a glance… Not only do I know that you had changed your appearance, I even know that you are using three layers. Even if you tear off this layer off, the one behind it, and the one behind that are still not your true face… Either you’re so ugly that you’re afraid to be truthfully seen by others, or it’s to conceal your true face for fear that people will know of your true identity…”
“Of course it’s the latter!!” The “young woman” roared emotionally while pulling at her throat: “Look at me disguised as a woman… even if I can’t be considered world-shakingly handsome, just looking at how refreshing and sweet I am would at least say that I’m extraordinarily handsome!! How could I possibly be related to the word ‘ugly’?! You’re ugly… Your entire family’s ugly!”
“Tch!” Yun Che’s mouth twitched, then suddenly released the foot on her body. He turned around and said: “Go.”
The “young man”… Mn, it should be said that the man hastily leapt up from the ground like a carp. He stared at Yun Che’s back with disbelief still visible on his face. Previously, in Falling Flame Merchant Guild, he had personally seen how vicious Yun Che was and originally thought that if he were to land in his hands, he would at least suffer greatly. Never did he expect that he would… release him?
“You’re… you’re releasing me just like that?” He said with wide eyes: “You’re not going to ask who I am? Don’t want to know why I was following you? Re… releasing me just like that?”
“Because you’re not an evil person.” Yun Che replied without turning his head around.
“…How do you know that I’m not an evil person?”
“Hmph, I have seen too many evil people in my lifetime, so I just need a single glance to know if someone is evil.” Yun Che said with half narrowed eyes: “Moreover, you used a sleeping mist instead of a poison mist in the inn. Even though you had been restrained beneath my foot, what you intended to scatter was only an illusion mist. Additionally, there is no killing intent in the gaze you use to look at me… if otherwise, do you really think you could’ve stayed alive til now?”
The man opened his mouth, yet did not seize the chance to escape… Since he had regained his freedom, he was fully confident that even ten Yun Che’s could not catch up to him if he wished to escape. Instead, he took a step forward and asked in puzzlement: “You’re not going to ask why I approached you?”
“I already know why.”
“You… do?”
Yun Che turned around, then looked at him: “You’re here to steal the Phoenix Helianthus on me!”
Yun Che said with firm assertion, not in a questioning way.
“How… How do you know?” The man immediately widened his eyes.
“Such a thing like scent, is usually even more harder to cover up than aura. Volcano Gall, Phoenix Tail Banana, Scorching Blood Fire Ginseng, Purple Yin Samgha, Dragon Reishi Grass, Thousand Insect Purple Asura Vine, Rainy Cloud Flower… These are the medicinal ingredients I smell on your body. Even though you’ve tried your best to eliminate these smells, you’ve touched them all of them within twenty four hours. No matter how you cover it up, there would still be a bit remaining that’s enough for me to distinguish.
The man was completely dumbstruck and stiffened in place as though petrified… All the names of the medicinal ingredients Yun Che had said… none were missing or in excess!!
“If these medicinal ingredients were stored in a spatial ring, not one smell would leak out. This is clearly evident that you had personally come in contact with them, and mixed them together. The results of combining them together would forcefully extend one’s lifespan. In order to prolong someone’s lifespan, it also needs a large amount of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals… It’s only that this forceful longevity would come with an immense pain. In order to keep this pain in check and not conflict with the other ingredients at the same time, only the Phoenix Helianthus that could obstruct all pain in the meridians is able to do that.”
Man: “~！#￥%……”
“You also just happened to start following me after I obtained the Phoenix Helianthus.” Yun Che said indifferently: “Since you approached me for the sake of saving someone’s life and never had any intention of killing me, I too, do not have any reason to make things difficult for you. Stepping on you a few times earlier is enough… You may leave. Stop deluding yourself into thinking that you can steal anything from me.”
After Yun Che finished speaking, he turned around and left.
Up until Yun Che walked more than ten steps, did the man suddenly awaken from his daze. He took a large stride forward and swooshed to Yun Che’s front. It was so fast that Yun Che didn’t even see any afterimages: “Wait, lil’ bro, no wait! Big bro, me offending such a high rank person like yourself was because I overestimated my own abilities, I had eyes but did not see. But… but the Phoenix Helianthus really is extremely important to me, I’m begging you to please give me that Phoenix Helianthus in your hands to me…”
He originally believed that with his abilities, he could’ve easily steal the Phoenix Helianthus from whoever obtained it. He never expected that he would bump into such an absolute monster like Yun Che, and now, he knew that it was impossible for him to steal it from him. Furthermore, Yun Che had magnanimously released him, so he did not have the face to try to play anymore tricks. However, he desperately needed that Phoenix Helianthus even if he had to risk his life to steal it. If stealing didn’t work, the only thing he could do… was beg.
“Don’t worry, I absolutely will not let you give it to me for nothing.” He said with absolute sincerity: “You used two thousand purple profound coins to buy the Phoenix Helianthus from Falling Flame Merchant Guild… I’ll use three thousand… no! Five thousand… no! Ten thousand… I’ll use ten thousand purple profound coins to buy it off you!”
He yelled out an incredibly crazy price, quickly took out a purple shining profound coin card, and looked at Yun Che with a beseeching face.
Yun Che remained unmoved, and slowly shook his head: “If it were any other time, I might’ve been able to transfer it to you. But as of right now, I urgently need this stalk of Phoenix Helianthus to increase my strength. Otherwise, after half a month, I might even lose my life in Divine Phoenix City. Thus, even if you put forth even more money, I would not give it to you.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che directly left.
“Big bro!!”
The man charged forward and firmly gripped his clothes with both hands trembling slightly: “The Phoenix Helianthus in your hands is the last stalk that could be found this year. Please, no matter what, you have to give it to me. If ten thousand purple profound coins is not enough… don’t hesitate to tell me how much you want. As long as I can take that out, I definitely won’t even bat an eye!”
Yun Che resolutely shook his head: “I’ve said it before, it’s not an issue of money. This Phoenix Helianthus concerns my fate. I definitely will not be giving it to anyone else no matter what. Go look elsewhere for one, perhaps you might find another one.”
“If it’s anywhere else that has it, I’ve already gone to all of them.” The man’s face revealed a deep implorement: “Big bro, you have amazing eyes. You even know the exact medicinal ingredients I have come in contact with, so you must know also know how great of a pain would follow after combining them all with Purple Veined Heaven Crystals to extend one’s life. She only has not even one year left to live, my biggest wish right now is to accompany her to pass the last year of her life in peace. How could I possibly have the heart to allow her to suffer through that kind of pain… I went through the greatest amount of efforts, but could only find half a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus. Not only has the other half a stalk of that Phoenix Helianthus been used, its medicinal energy has already substantially dispersed. Its results would be extremely miniscule. My only hope right now lies on that stalk in your hands… Please, I beg of you, give it to me. I swear to god that I’ll definitely repay you back one day.”
Yun Che cast a sidelong glance at him, yet he still shook his head: “Every sort of ability you possess all clearly indicate that you are a genuine thief, but it is evident that your heart is not bad at all. Each one of your words all contain genuine urgency but you, and the person you wish to save, both have nothing to do with me. I am not that generous and benevolent to use an item that is related to the safety of my life to save a total stranger… Just give up, don’t follow me anymore!”
With a swing of his hand, he Star God’s Broken Shadow’d more than thirty meters away.
“Bang!!”
The sound of knees heavily falling to the ground came from behind Yun Che. Yun Che’s footsteps paused, he turned around, and said with furrowed brows: “You…”
The man knelt on both knees. His face filled with a deep beseechment as his eyes swayed with tears: “Big bro, I have never begged anyone before in my entire life, nor have kneeled to anyone… Even when my parents were alive, I never had the time to kneel to them… I’m begging you… have mercy… She really… only has not even a year left… Please, I’m begging you… even if I have to slave for you…”
Yun Che’s heart was fiercely moved… Even though this was the first day he had met this ghost-like figure whom not even eight Overlords could deal with, he understood what his tears and kneeling signified…
That was all of his pride and dignity…
In his entire life, this was indeed the first time he had ever kneeled to anyone. Otherwise, his knees would not be trembling so acutely. He had on an utterly helpless expression, and if he rejected him again, that helplessness would turn into complete despair…
That expression looked extremely close to himself on that day, when he cried painfully toward the sky while embracing Ling’er’s beautiful corpse…
“Huu…” Yun Che inwardly sighed, but no longer took another step onward. He walked over and said: “The person you want to save, who is she to you?”
“…My wife.” Seeing Yun Che walking back toward him, his eyes brightened with a hopeful radiance: “Big bro, I’m begging you, as long as you give me the Phoenix Helianthus, I’ll agree to any condition you put forth.”
“Tell me, what kind of illness has your wife contracted.” Yun Che asked.
“She didn’t contract an illness.” The man shook his head as his expression grew pained: “Five years ago, our entire family was secretly ambushed by enemies. Both my parents were murdered. They used their lives so my wife and I could escape, but my wife was severely injured at that time, and had been infected by a strange incurable cold poison. All these years, I’ve been doing my utmost so she could continue living on, but this kind of life expansion still cannot persist for long. This year is already the limit…”
“Secretly ambushed?” Yun Che was slightly surprised: “You are an expert in stealth attacks so your parents ought to be even stronger than you. How could you possibly end up this way? Five years ago, your skills shouldn’t be that lower than what you possess right now, right?”
The man revealed a struggling expression, then still slowly said it out in the end: “It’s Sun Moon Divine Hall…”
Yun Che: “!!”
“My family have been thieves for many generations and we happily robbed the rich to help the poor. One of my ancestors had once infiltrated Sun Moon Divine Hall and stole a Tyrant Profound blade. As such, for the past several hundred years, Sun Moon Divine Hall had always been searching for our tracks. Afterwards, I don’t know what kind of searching method they used, but they found one of our bases, and thus calamity descended…”
“I understand. Get up.” Yun Che pulled him up… A special clan of people that were thieves for many generations, an ancestor, and even a Sacred Ground like Sun Moon Divine Hall had come in the picture with a Tyrant Profound blade. This kind of family inevitably possessed a great fame within the Profound Sky Continent.
“Bring me to see your wife.” Yun Che said seriously: “I believe that you wouldn’t let her stay anywhere too far, she ought to be within Divine Phoenix City, right?”
“Ah?” The man was stunned.
“I know a bit of medicine, I can perhaps cure your wife’s injuries and poison. Also, don’t worry, I won’t leak out any information concerning you and your wife. I won’t even bother to check to see what you truly look like.” Yun Che said indifferently.
The man gaped: “But… but… this…”
“No buts.” Yun Che interrupted: “Since you care about her that much, then you can only trust me. Even if the number one genius doctor told you that there is no cure, you still have to trust a person who claims that he might possibly cure her! Because if you miss this opportunity… you might miss the opportunity to save her life!”
“Okay!!”
Yun Che’s last words suddenly smashed all the hesitation the man possessed. He no longer thought of anything else as he nodded fiercely: “You can even differentiate what kind of medicine I had been in contact with in an instant, so I believe that your medical skills have reached perfection! I believe even more that you would not harm us, and you don’t even have a reason to harm us… If you can truly cure her, my life is yours!”
Chapter 410 - The Legendary Princess Snow
Night gradually fell, Yun Che followed the man toward a place at the edge of Divine Phoenix City’s southern region.
“Why… Why are you helping me?” The man asked cautiously after being silent for a long period of time. Like Yun Che, he was a person who had been in innumerable life and death situations before, his perceptiveness and wariness were no less inferior to Yun Che. Thus, he could tell with a single glance if someone possessed evil intentions or was conspiring against him. However, he couldn’t find any trace of malice or conspiracy on Yun Che.
“Just treat it as my doctor’s heart suddenly reawakening after a long period of silence.” Yun Che said as he secretly sighed in his heart… Having a doctor’s heart that loved everything under the heavens and helped the people, that had made up his entire soul back then, and was the core part of what his Master had taught him. But once his Master had been forced to death, his doctor’s heart had been replaced by endless hatred. After that, he had never used his medical expertise to save anyone.
“Err…” This answer confused the man.
“You said that you had obtained half a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus?” Yun Che casually asked.
“Yes.” The man nodded: “Every year, the quantity of Phoenix Helianthus that sprouts is already very few, and most are usually immediately seized by Divine Phoenix Sect, so I could only infiltrate one of Divine Phoenix Sect’s treasure halls. But many protective profound formations are littered everywhere there, just as soon as I went in, I accidentally touched one of them and had no choice but to escape… Luckily, before I escaped, I already had that half stalk of Phoenix Helianthus in hand. I believe the reason why I could so easily steal it, was because since that half stalk of Phoenix Helianthus had already lost too much of its medicinal force, it had been casually tossed on top of a jade cabinet.
Yun Che’s steps slowed as he said with shock: “You… infiltrated Divine Phoenix Sect?”
“Yeah.” Hearing the shock in Yun Che’s voice, the man slapped his chest while proudly nodding: “In this world, aside from the Four Great Sacred Grounds and Black Moon Merchant Guild, there has never been a place I have not snuck into. Even though they discovered me… Heh heh, they couldn’t even manage to touch my butt before I disappeared from their sights without leaving even a trace.”
Yun Che: “…”
This man said that one of his ancestors had infiltrated Sun Moon Divine Hall, which had also shocked him, and the man himself beside him… He was about to steal into Divine Phoenix Sect, yet had escaped without a single injury after being discovered…
Who… the heck…
The man’s voice lowered, as he said with a distressed face: “When I stole into Divine Phoenix Sect, I originally wanted to secretly check out the legendary Princess Snow, but she just had to happen to not be there. I heard a few people discussing… and it seems like she had went to some Perching Phoenix Valley.”
“Princess Snow?” Yun Che raised his brows: “One of Divine Phoenix Sect’s princesses, right?”
After Yun Che finished speaking, he saw the man’s eyes widen. That expression… was as if he was examining an alien.
“Could it be… that you don’t know Princess Snow?” The man said with wide eyes.
“Is this Princess Snow… really famous?” Yun Che asked back.
Yun Che’s unchanging expression did not have the least bit of falsehood. The man swept him up and down with his gaze, then used an extremely expression to once again size Yun Che up again. That gaze… was totally not a gaze that was looking at a living person: “Holy cow! You’re serious? You seriously don’t know Princess Snow? As expected, y-y-y-y-you’re not someone from Divine Phoenix Empire! Ah, no wait! Even if you’re not from Divine Phoenix Empire, even if you’re from a remote mountain region in another nation, it’s impossible for you to not know Princess Snow!”
Yun Che: “…”
This was indeed the first time he had ever heard of the name Princess Snow.
“Then… have you ever heard of the name ‘Hua Minghai’?” The man’s eyes flashed.
“Hua Minghao? Never heard of it before, is it another famous person?” Yun Che asked.
“Holy cow!!” The man hopped up and roared with bared teeth: “I-i-i-it’s whatever if you don’t know Princess Snow, but you actually have never heard of the great Hua Minghai! He’s the legendary ‘Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’, the most awesome person in all of Profound Sky Continent… Cough cough, one of them. Let alone humans, even a fish in mud would know of this great name, how could there exist a person who has never heard of that name!!”
“Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand? What a terrible nickname.” Yun Che curled his lips.
“~！#￥%……” The muscles on the man’s face twitched, and looked as if he wanted to fight to the death with Yun Che: “You couldn’t have come here from another world, could you?”
Yun Che turned around, and nodded seriously: “You can believe that.”
“F*ck!”
“You can’t be… that ‘Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’ Hua Minghai, could you?” Yun Che gave him a new measuring look.
“Right, that’s me!” Hua Minghai patted his chest, then the corner of his eyes twitched uncontrollably. Holy f*ck… this was the first time he had revealed his own name to someone… yet this person had actually never heard of him before!
“Oh, I understand.” Yun Che asked flatly: “Then should I call you Little Hua or Little Hai?”
“…Just call me Little Hai.” Hua Minghai was about to cry. No matter how you put it, I’m almost thirty years ago, and this kid’s obviously not even twenty years of age.
“Talk to me about Princess Snow, why is so so famous?” Yun Che asked with some curiosity.
“Cough cough, you don’t want to know about Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’s past achievements first?”
“Nope.”
“！#￥%……” Hua Minghai sucked in a death breath. Only after using all of his willpower to finally calm down did he answer: “Princess Snow is Divine Phoenix Empire’s treasure, the Divine Phoenix Spirit’s darling, and the miracle the heavens have bestowed upon Divine Phoenix. These were all her previous nicknames, and no one had seen her before. In the year Princess Snow turned thirteen, she had appeared on top of Divine Phoenix City’s tower because of some ceremony. That year, the Divine Phoenix City that had never seen even a bit of snow had unexpectedly seen snow descend from the sky; Princess Snow appeared, and the entire place had become a field of silence. Everyone who had gaze upon her had become dazed on the spot, as if they had seen a fairy descend to the mortal realm… On the very next day, she had been dubbed as Profound Sky’s number one beauty. It was unprecedented, and even those who were qualified to be mentioned in the same breath as her did not exist.”
“Thirteen years old? Profound Sky’s number one beauty?”
“Yes, back then, Princess Snow was only thirteen years old. She ought to be sixteen this year, so her beauty definitely should have increased. Unfortunately, aside from her surfacing three years ago, she had never come out in front of others. Nobody knows how Princess Snow looks like now.” Hua Minghai said with a face full of yearning.
“You’ve seen her three years ago?” Yun Che asked.
“No, I’ve only heard it from people…”
Yun Che smirked: “Then how do you know she’s beautiful to such an extent? For women, if you’re talking about thirteen years old, let alone mature, she hasn’t even blossomed yet. No matter how good-looking she is, how beautiful could she possibly be?” When he spoke till here, Yun Ch paused, because he thought about Jasmine… The first time he had met Jasmine, she was only thirteen as well, and the blow she gave Yun Che had even surpassed Xia Qingyue…
But Jasmine was a completely different kind of category that couldn’t be examined based on this world’s standards. How could that so called “Princess Snow” possibly be mentioned in the same breath as her?
As far as snow descending from the sky, that’s even more nonsensical. Divine Phoenix City is summer all year round, where would snow come from? I’d reckon that the title of number one beauty and snowfall stuff were all fabricated from Divine Phoenix Sect to strengthen its prestige.”
“But, everyone all says that…”
“I only believe things that I see with my own eyes, not what I hear.” Yun Che said slowly: “If you were to say the number one beauty in the world, I think that only my wife deserves this title… Who doesn’t know how to self-proclaim stuff like that?”
“Hmph…” Hua Minghai snorted softly, then said: “I heard that in this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, Princess Snow will appear. At that time, I’m definitely going to mix in with the crowd to check out how Princess Snow looks like, are you interested?”
“Not interested.”
“……”
In the very edge of one of Divine Phoenix City’s corners. Hua Minghai’s footsteps stopped in front of an abandoned looking little house. He stopped breathing, quickly surveyed the surroundings, and whispered: “It’s right here… follow me in.”
The door opened and a strong scent of medicine assaulted over. This place was obviously a temporary residence; its furnishing was very simple. Purple crystals were on top of the little bed on the side, flickering with purple light. These purple crystal lights were deep and illusory, and peacefully lying on top of the purple crystals was a thin woman. Once she heard the door open, the woman stirred, and let out a weak yet eager sound: “Husband… you’re… back…”
This voice made Hua Minghai tremble all over. He hastily rushed over, threw himself in front of the bed, and said emotionally: “Xiaoya, you’re awake… I’m so sorry that I wasn’t here by your side when you woke up, I must have scared you… How do you feel? Does it hurt a lot?”
Yun Che walked in with light steps and stood behind Hua Minghai as he looked at the woman’s face… She had been reduced to an extremely thin and weak state, her face was pale without color, her eyes were half opened, and exuded a misty gaze… This kind of gaze was one that could not see anything.
The most conspicuous thing on her face was on her forehead… there was an obvious deep dark blue seal there.
Seeing this dark blue color, Yun Che’s brows slightly wrinkled.
“No problem… I’ve only just woken up… I feel… a lot better…” The woman tried her best to smile. At this time, her eyes finally caught a vague human silhouette. She said softly: “Husband… do we have… a guest?”
Without waiting for Hua Minghai to speak, Yun Che had already answered: “Hello… My name is Ling Yun, I’m Hua Minghai’s friend.”
“Friend…”
Yun Che’s following words had actually made the woman’s eyes light up with a peculiar gleam. She said excitedly: “You’re really Husband’s friend? Husband… is he really… your friend?”
Yun Che was slightly stunned, but Hua Minghai knew why she was so moved. He nodded forcefully: “Mn! Xiaoya, he’s a friend I made outside… If he’s not a friend, how could he possible know that my name is Hua Minghai.”
“Friend… Husband’s friend…” She laughed, her smiling expression was pale yet blissful. She gently repeated: “Husband has a friend… Husband really has a friend…”
“…” Yun Che secretly heaved out a breath, and took a step forward: “Not only am I Little Hai’s friend, I’m also a doctor. The reason why I have come with Little Hai here is also to see if I can cure your illness… Little Hai, step aside first, let me see her condition.”
After hearing that, Hua Minghai quickly stepped aside, as both his eyes stared straight at Yun Che: “Big bro! Please, you have to use all your power to save Xiaoya. If you really can save her…”
In front of Xiaoya, Hua Minghai was unable to say the words that came next. Even though he knew that he was older than Yun Che by at least ten years, the word “big bro” came from his soul. If Yun Che truly could save her, let alone “big bro”, even if he had to call him “grandpa” his entire life, he would be perfectly willing. And he was already grateful that Yun Che was even willing to come here with him.
“Of course I’ll do all I can.” Yun Che said calmly. Then, he walked over to the front of the bed as his gaze fell upon her forehead… Manifested on the space between her brows was the terrifying dark blue cold poison that had infected her body. It was almost about to enter her brain.
All the purple colored crystals beneath her were priceless, because each one of them were the purest Purple Veined Heaven Crystals! Her body was extremely worn out, and the main reason why she had lived past so many years under the terrifying cold poison was because half her body was bundled with those Purple Veined Heaven Crystals.
“My name is… Ru Xiaoya, can I… also call you big bro?” As Yun Che gazed at her, she suddenly asked in a weak voice.
“…Mn.” Yun Che nodded in response.
“Thank you… Big bro…”
“Why are you thanking me?” Yun Che asked.
“Thank you… for becoming Little Hai’s friend.” Ru Xiaoya said with grateful sincerity: “These years… to extend my life… Husband did not hesitate to abandon the family doctrine of robbing the rich to help the poor… and went everywhere to steal many elixirs and Purple Veined Heaven Crystals… because of me… he doesn’t have any friends… and also could not… have any friends…”
“I don’t want to burden him anymore… but, I’m also scared of dying… because if I die… Husband will truly be alone… He finally… has… a… big brother… good…”
Ru Xiaoya’s voice grew increasingly softer, until she finally lost consciousness. She was too weak, and saying so many words had consumed an enormous amount of energy.
Chapter 411 - Great Kindness
“She fainted.” Yun Che stated.
Hua Minghai trembled all over and clenched his teeth, using all his might to suppress the tears that were about to burst forth. He turned around with both hands clutching his head and said painfully: “I know how painful it was for her these past few years. To her, dying is actually a kind of freedom… but… but how could I possibly watch her leave me without doing anything…”
“This is a cruel decision you have no choice in. No matter which one you pick, they would both be right and wrong… Without personally experiencing this kind of feeling, it would never be understood.” Yun Che sighed, then changed his tone: “However, because you met me, your choice and perseverance is right.”
“Ah!?” Hua Minghai suddenly lifted his head to look at him.
Yun Che turned around and looked him straight in the eye: “I’ve only very rarely seen your wife’s symptoms before, and I more or less understand them. Go stand guard outside, don’t let anyone in. Aside from me giving you permission, you cannot come in. You ought to know that the more dangerous of a state a patient is in, the more reason there is for the treatment to not be disturbed.”
Seeing Yun Che’s undisguised expression, Hua Minghai said excitedly: “Could… could it be, that you have a way… to save Xiaoya… You really have a method to save Xiaoya?!”
“I can’t say with complete certainty.” Yun Che glared at him: “If you can disappear from my sight right now, the chance of success can roughly go up to ninety nine percent.”
Swish! Bang!
A fierce wind was raised before Yun Che’s eyes, and Hua Minghai had already vanished from his sight as the sound of the door being hastily closed echoed.
This kind of speed was absolutely world shocking, would make ghosts weep, and stunned Yun Che for a long while before he recovered his senses.
This fellow, what kind of movement skill did he cultivate!?
His profound strength was more or less at the late stage Sky Profound, yet his movement skills were terrifying to such an extent!
The reason why Yun Che made Hua Minghai go out was obviously not because he was afraid to be disturbed, rather, he was afraid of him seeing the way he was going to treat Xiaoya. After all, if he were to expel the poison in the shortest time possible, he had to use the Sky Poison Pearl. If he didn’t use the Sky Poison Pearl, Yun Che had to use ten million times the effort to dispel the cold poison… because the cold poison had already existed for as long as five years, and had long fused with the blood and meridians in her entire body. Not only would it be extremely troublesome to completely dispel it, it would also be accompanied by an extremely high risk.
Aside from the poison, she also had very heavy internal injuries… due to the cold poison’s existence, not only did these internal injuries not heal, they had instead worsened day by day. To Yun Che, her internal failures were more problematic than the cold poison.
Yun Che extended out his left hand in front of Ru Xiaoya’s bed, placing it on her chest. Sky Poison Pearl’s green radiance slowly shined, then gradually spread through her entire body. Under the Sky Poison Pearl’s power, the cold poison that had been wreaking havoc in her body for a full five years was quickly being eliminated without any resistance.
Like ants on a hot pan, Hua Minghai paced back and forth outside, but did not dare to make any stepping sounds.
A burst of a slightly cold night wind blew over, somewhat instantly clearing Hua Minghai’s mind. He was usually an extremely careful person, otherwise, he would not have kept Ru Xiaoya up till now. Yet today, he had actually brought a person he had only met for the very first time into their present hiding place, and even let him approach Ru Xiaoya alone. Now that he thought about it, he felt that it was inconceivable… perhaps it was the mysterious aura on Yun Che’s body that allowed the bottom of his heart to give birth to an indescribable hope.
An entire hour passed by, and not a peep of noise came out from inside the house. This made Hua Minghai feel extremely uncertain, he wanted to pull open the door many times, but every time he felt that, he would do his utmost to hold himself back. At this time, Yun Che’s not light, yet not heavy voice came from inside: “Come in.”
Like lightning, Hua Minghai pulled open the door and dashed in. He saw that the medicinal ingredients in the room had not changed. Ru Xiaoya still laid in place, she had not even been moved. He quickly stepped forward and said with emotion: “How is Xiaoya…?”
As soon as he said that, his pupils suddenly enlarged… because he shockingly saw that the dark blue color on Ru Xiaoya’s forehead had already disappeared.
Hua Minghai’s entire body trembled with excitement. He held out a hand, pressed it on Ru Xiaoya’s chest, and carefully probed with his profound energy… He no longer felt the slightest trace of the cold poison anywhere… not even a remnant was found.
“The cold poison in her body has already been completely dispelled.” Yun Che said. How could it possibly take an hour for the Sky Poison Pearl to remove the cold poison in Ru Xiaoya’s body? However, if it were too quick, it was unavoidable that it would be too shocking, so Yun Che sat for a while, dragging the time to last an hour.
Hua Minghai was so moved that he couldn’t control himself. The two were tormented by this cold poison for an entire five years, it was their most terrifying nightmare, and they knew more than anyone how dreadful this cold poison was, even so much that they had given up long ago about having the extravagant hope of curing this poison. When Hua Minghai brought Yun Che along, he also did not have the excessive hope that a miracle would occur, it was just that he was unwilling to abandon this last strand of hope… He never expected that a miracle would truly and honestly appear before his eyes.
“Xiaoya… Xiaoya…” Hua Minghai clasped Ru Xiaoya’s hand and was so emotional that he spoke incoherently: “Did you hear that… your poison’s gone… completely gone… Xiaoya… did you hear that…”
“Alright, don’t bother her, let’s go outside.” Yun Che said: “Even though the cold poison has been removed, due to the cold poison’s five years of erosion, her profound strength has completely collapsed, her internal organs are severely exhausted. If not for the large amount of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals’ nourishment all these years, she would’ve inevitably died once the cold poison was removed. At present, she has not completely left the dangerous condition. In order to fully recuperate, she needs a really long time to do so. What she needs right now is proper rest.”
Hua Minghai immediately restrained himself from talking as he properly tended to Ru Xiaoya’s bedding and blankets. Then, he followed Yun Che out with light steps.
Yun Che took out a small bottle and gave it to Hua Minghai. Inside the bottle was a small amount of scarlet color liquid: “This is the blood of a fire attribute Emperor Profound True Dragon, it can disperse the cold energy that had filled her body during those years and also restore her vitality. There are a total of ten drops of dragon blood. You must drip one drop into three liters of water, then feed her three drops of that everyday starting tomorrow. Every time a month passes, you must add in an additional one drop… Remember, you must not add more drops, otherwise, her body would not be able to withstand it.”
Even though it laid inside the jade bottle, with Hua Minghai’s strong awareness, the pure dragon aura was completely perceived. He also knew that for a weak body like Ru Xiaoya’s that was filled with cold energy, a True Dragon’s blood, even a fire attribute Emperor Profound dragon blood, was no different than a heavenly pellet.
Hua Minghai took the dragon blood and was so moved that he couldn’t say a single word out.
“You have looked after her for five years, so you should be very clear on how to gradually cure her internal injuries and restore her vitality. You don’t need me to talk excessively. But I have one thing to remind you about, within a period of three months, you cannot remove her from the Purple Veined Heaven Crystals. Her vitality is at an all time low at the moment so if she were to leave from the Purple Veined Heaven Crystals, any sort of mistake could possibly end her life.” Yun Che said seriously. Saving the dying and healing the injured… was what he always did back then, and he had always been happy about it. But now, he no longer had that kind of mindset anymore, because compared to the number of people he had killed, the amount of people he had saved… was too far removed.
“Thank you… Benefactor!” Hua Minghai choked with emotion, then suddenly kneeled… This kneel, had more force than the previous kneel. The previous kneel was filled with endless unwillingness, but this kneel was filled with willingness: “I, Hua Minghai will remember your great kindness throughout my entire life. May I ask Benefactor for his great name? I, Hua Minghai will definitely use all my power to repay you.”
“No need, I only occasionally do a doctor’s duty.” Yun Che said with a little sigh: “As for my name… I’ve already told you this before, my name is Ling Yun.”
Toward this name, Hua Minghai was unmoved. Instead, he asked: “Could Benefactor’s true name be… Yun Che?”
“…” Yun Che’s brows violently twitched… Shit! What’s this? I’ve only announced my name twice, and I said that it was “Ling Yun” both times, yet the other party all call out my real name… Could it be that my name has already been spread to such an extent that everyone within Divine Phoenix Empire knows me?
Seeing that Yun Che had not said anything for a long time, Hua Minghai knew that his guess was right. He quickly continued: “When I infiltrated Divine Phoenix Sect, I just happened to hear the name ‘Yun Che’, and they mentioned that ‘Yun Che’ was from Blue Wind Nation. He wasn’t a part of Divine Phoenix Sect, yet he possessed the phoenix bloodline. Benefactor is from Blue Wind Nation and can use phoenix flames… so I always thought that Benefactor was this ‘Yun Che’.
So that’s why… Yun Che was finally relieved. It was evident that the name “Yun Che” wasn’t much, but people would pay attention to “someone outside of Divine Phoenix Sect who possesses the phoenix bloodline”.
“Yes, I am the Yun Che you speak of. I came to Divine Phoenix City this time to settle this matter with Divine Phoenix Sect. That is also why I wasn’t willing to give you the Phoenix Helianthus.” Yun Che glanced at the night sky, then helped Hua Minghai up: “Okay, go back to look after your wife. You don’t have to think about thanking me. After she recovers her strength, you should take her away from Divine Phoenix City and go to a safer place.”
Hua Minghai said unhesitatingly: “Even though I am a thief, I will never forget how to repay a debt of gratitude. I’ve said it before, as long as you are able to save my wife, my life is yours. From now on, if Benefactor needs me for anything, don’t hesitate to open your mouth. Even if it is extremely dangerous, I won’t even wrinkle my brows! Especially if Benefactor wants something… Even if it’s in the sacred grounds, I will still be willing to charge in for Benefactor.”
Hua Minghai’s last words stirred Yun Che’s heart. He opened his lips, but before he could speak, he swallowed them back… In Divine Phoenix City, the thing he wanted the most was undoubtedly Divine Phoenix Sect’s 《World Ode of the Phoenix》. If he could obtain the fundamental formula and the first four stages of the 《World Ode of the Phoenix》, he would completely master and comprehend his phoenix profound strength.
But 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 was Divine Phoenix Sect’s core art. It was also 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 that allowed Divine Phoenix Sect to become the number one sect in the Profound Sky. The protection Divine Phoenix Sect would have for 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 would certainly be extremely tight. If Hua Minghai goes in to steal it, it was extremely possible for him to lose his life… That was after all, Divine Phoenix Sect’s 《World Ode of the Phoenix》, normal things absolutely cannot compare to it.
He had just removed the cold poison from Ru Xiaoya. If Hua Minghai actually plants himself within Divine Phoenix Sect because of him, that would be the same as harming the two.
Seeing the distinct flash of hesitation in Yun Che’s face, as well as him withdrawing his words, Hua Minghai quickly said: “Benefactor, is there something you want? Don’t hesitate to ask, I’ll definitely help you get it… If I don’t repay this kindness, I won’t ever be at ease.”
Yun Che pondered for a while, then said: “Can you tell me what movement skill you use?”
Hua Minghai was somewhat stunned, then said after a slight hesitation: “It is my Hua Family’s hereditary movement skill —— ‘Extreme Mirage Lightning’.”
Chapter 412 - Hunted
“Extreme Mirage Lightning… This movement skill, can it be transferred to another person?” Yun Che asked earnestly.
“Ah…” Hua Minghai stilled his expression, then shook his head in fear and agony: “Sorry, Benefactor. I’ll never hesitate in whatever you want me to do, but only this… Extreme Mirage Lightning is my clan’s treasure bestowed upon us by heaven, and also our biggest taboo that can never be passed on to others. I…”
“I understand.” Yun Che nodded: “A clan’s profound techniques are originally not supposed to be spread out, I was being rude. Take proper care of your wife.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che turned, leaving with slow steps.
“Benefactor… I…” Hua Minghai looked at Yun Che’s departing back, gritting his teeth with a face full of shame… What Yun Che had given him was no doubt a favor as big as the sky. He could easily accomplish the only thing he wanted, yet he just couldn’t do it… He was a man who hated owing a debt of gratitude to another, let alone such a great kindness. This kind of feeling made his heart feel unbearable pain.
“Don’t take it to heart.” Yun Che executed a backward wave: “You should be using all your energy on your wife at the moment, don’t be distracted by something that doesn’t matter. Saving a life can also be considered to be for the purpose of redeeming a bit of my sins. If you really want to repay me, then work hard to help your wife recover faster, which would not make me saving her be in vain.”
As his voice fell, Yun Che’s figure had already disappeared into the dark of night. Hua Minghai looked up ahead, not uttering a single word for a long while, with a complicated, indescribable expression on his face, as though he was struggling intensely about something.
“I never thought that you, someone who treats human life like grass, who would annihilate an entire clan without blinking, would actually waste energy to save someone who has nothing to do with you.” Jasmine said with an extremely indifferent tone of voice.
“This proves that I am still inherently a good person, right?”
“…” Jasmine snorted.
By the time Yun Che returned to the inn, it was already the middle of the night. When he went back in his room, just as he was intending to push the door open while standing right at the doorway, his hands suddenly stiffened as both his brows sunk. All the nerves on his entire body had also instantly stretched taut.
Because he clearly felt that there was someone in his room!
The person hidden in his room was superb at concealment, if it was only by his profound strength and not spiritual sense, it would be impossible for him to discover his existence… Once he perceived this person’s existence, a kind of hair raising, chilling sensation came right after. This kind of sensation told him that not only was the person inside terrifyingly strong, this person was here to kill him.
“Quickly, leave! It’s someone at the eighth level of the Emperor Profound Realm! He has already detected you!”
Under Jasmine’s quick warning, Yun Che no longer had time to think as he Star God’s Broken Shadow’d out of the inn and quickly dashed out.
Crash!
The door and walls being completely smashed sounded behind him as a scorching wave of wind also screamed from behind… This kind of burning sensation was clearly… phoenix flame!
Someone from Divine Phoenix Sect!
Yun Che’s heart grew heavy… why was it someone from Divine Phoenix Sect? And this killing intent clearly wanted to put him to death. Could it be… Feng Xichen!?
Yun Che’s heart turned… Looks like it was due to the events back then, when he had revealed his phoenix flames in broad daylight in Falling Flame Merchant Guild and was mistaken as a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple, which allowed Divine Phoenix Sect to obtain news of him. They followed the clues to then find where he resided.
Seems like he had been too careless then. He was too preoccupied with noticing Hua Minghai that he had subconsciously forgotten this key fact… In Divine Phoenix City, Divine Phoenix Sect spies were everywhere!
Yun Che’s speed obviously could not match a strong practitioner at the later stages of the Emperor Profound. In less than ten breaths, he had already chased to the point where there was only sixty meters between them. A violent wave of phoenix flame broke through the air at him.
RIIIP!!
The phoenix flame that had been violently ignited in the air was especially luminous in the night sky. Yun Che quickly dodged, avoiding the phoenix flame. Then, his heart steeled as he stopped to turn around… The person chasing him also stopped without overtaking him, because before his eyes, was his pitiful prey that simply could not escape his grasp.
“Who are you?” Yun Che asked with sunken brows.
The other party’s gaze swept across his body, then laughed coldly: “You do indeed have the aura of phoenix profound strength. You are indeed the rumored bastard… Yun Che. I never thought that you would actually arrive so early.”
“Heh,” Yun Che coldly laughed in turn: “Look like your Divine Phoenix Sect is scared of me.”
“Scared of you?”
“Right!” Yun Che ridiculed: “I came to Divine Phoenix City with the intent to settle the bloodline dispute with your Divine Phoenix Sect openly and honorably at the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, but you Divine Phoenix Sect are actually using such an unpresentable method like assassination. Seems like the so called Divine Phoenix Sect is only this much.”
“Haha,” The middle aged man laughed disdainfully: “In our Divine Phoenix Sect’s eyes, you are merely a little reptile that had stolen our sect’s bloodline. My sect is scared of a pathetic little reptile? Truly a joke as large as the heavens. Today is just because Thirteenth Prince wants your life.”
“As expected…” Yun Che’s gaze became even colder.
“A mere reptile from Blue Wind actually dares to offend Thirteenth Prince. Even if the Blue Wind Emperor kneels to beg for forgiveness on your behalf, you should not even think of living past tonight… However, dying in my, Feng Chihuo’s hands, is enough to brag about when you go to the netherworld and enter the reincarnation cycle! Calmly meet your maker!”
Feng Chihuo’s figure swayed, then he suddenly charged at Yun Che with phoenix flames ignited on all five of his fingers, aiming for Yun Che’s chest. It was evident that he wanted to kill him in one strike… Eighth level of the Emperor Profound Realm, a genuine high level Throne, against one at merely the Earth Profound Realm. If an instant kill was impossible, even he would feel that it was funny.
Yun Che’s gaze flashed as he stepped a Star God’s Broken Shadow, instantly splitting out three false images, dooming Feng Chihuo’s grab to miss. Sucking in a deep breath, he gathered all the profound energy in his body and quickly fled toward the south.
The moment he grabbed empty air, Feng Chihuo was stunned. He was actually unable to clearly see how Yun Che had dodged with his eyesight, and the rate in which Yun Che had fled right after had shocked him even more… He clearly was only at the Earth Profound Realm, but his speed was no less inferior to that of a low level Throne!
“Hmph! As expected, he has some skill.” Feng Chihuo snorted coldly, as a trace of anger surfaced in his heart. Even though Yun Che’s speed was way faster than what he had expected, this kind of speed still could not escape the palm of his hands. Besides, Yun Che only had profound strength at the Earth Profound Realm. It was impossible for him to fly, so he had no other choice but to run on ground, which meant that he could never escape his line of sight, nor his perception.
“Brat, let’s see where you’ll run to!”
Feng Chihuo growled. His entire body flew after Yun Che like an arrow from a bow, the shocking speed brought along the exceptionally ear-piercing sound of air being broken. Under the distinct difference in speed, within several tens of breaths, Yun Che was once again chased to sixty meters of difference. Yun Che, who was on the run, suddenly turned around again and tossed a pitch-black thing at the Feng Chihuo in midair.
The waning moon in the sky was completely hidden from view by the Primordial Profound Ark, making the night as black as ink. Feng Chihuo heard a sharp whistling sound in front of him, yet couldn’t clearly see what it was. He didn’t dare to use his body to obstruct it, for fear that the other party had tossed out a toxic poison. He quickly dodged to the side, and once it had brushed past him, did he clearly see that it was only an ordinary stone… It was probably a random stone Yun Che had casually picked up during his escape.
“Whoosh!”
The sound of something breaking through the air resounded once more, and Feng Chihuo’s gaze grew disdainful. Casually slapping the stone into pieces, he sneered: “Truly a hilarious struggle, are you still dreaming about escaping the palms of your lord’s hands!?”
After a few breaths, Yun Che had already been chased to a distance of forty five meters apart. His expression was still, and he turned around again as a pitch-black object flew out of his hands once more.
Forty five meters of distance was already inside Feng Chihuo’s attack range. He began to condense profound energy in his hand, and directly met that object. Without even looking at what it was, he casually slapped it away…
BOOM!!!!
The sound of profound thunder from the nine heavens resounded within Divine Phoenix City’s quiet midnight. An enormous energy storm violently exploded in midair. From far away, it was as though an extremely magnificent firework had exploded in the sky.
The first two stones were merely a pretense tossed out by Yun Che.
But the third one, was the Heaven Decimating Orb Yun Che had obtained from the body of Xiao Wuyi!
Heaven Decimating Orb’s might was incomparably large, enough to severely injure a low level Throne. With Feng Chihuo’s abilities, if he had used all his strength to defend, it might actually be difficult for the Heaven Decimating Orb to bring about substantial injuries. However, in the cat chasing mouse game-like manner he used to pursue Yun Che, he simply did not defend at all. Inside the blaze brought about by the Heaven Decimating Orb, his entire left arm had been completely fried inside out, dripping with fresh blood. His entire phoenix robe had been burst into pieces, it was so powerful that even his chest, both arms, and face were littered with wounds all over. His hair had even been half bombed, changing into a field of rough disorder.
He looked miserable to the extreme.
As for Yun Che, he had fled long ago, not a trace of him could be found.
Even though there were many wounds, they were all just minor injuries, only the injury on his left arm was a bit severe. Compared to his external injuries, Feng Chihuo’s chest had nearly burst from rage. He looked at his arm with a vicious expression as his entire body shook… He, a grand, high level Throne of Divine Phoenix Sect had actually been reduced to such a miserable shape by a mere junior of the Earth Profound Realm… This was the biggest humiliation of his entire life!
“Yun Che… I’m going to rip you into ten thousand pieces!!” Feng Chihuo’s hair stood erect as his entire body combusted with a violent blaze. With a loud roar and a towering fury, he used his greatest speed to chase forward, his perception, had also been released to its maximum.
After running in his quickest speed possible for a distance, Yun Che had instead slowed down, then used all his power to control the fluctuation of his profound strength. To an escapee, night time was the best time for hiding, but at the same time, in the completely quiet night, even the most minute of movement would echo through the silence.
Feng Xichen had indeed ordered someone to kill him before the ranking tournament, and his mobilization was actually this fast… He had already been discovered, and Divine Phoenix City was also full of Divine Phoenix Sect’s spies. In that case, Divine Phoenix City was no longer a suitable place for him to stay before the ranking tournament. Before dawn, he had to stay hidden from Feng Chihuo’s pursuit and leave Divine Phoenix City at the same time.
As he was currently being hunted, Yun Che’s mind would find itself at its most clearest state. Inside the darkness, in Divine Phoenix City, a place he was not at all familiar with, he was displaying his concealing and evading abilities to their peaks. Going along a strange and unpredictable route, he quickly approached the southern part of Divine Phoenix City.
Time slowly passed by in the night, and the milky white color of twilight began to emerge from the eastern sky. Yun Che could already see Divine Phoenix City’s tall, majestic southern gate in his field of vision… And in this boundless night, Feng Chihuo, who was crazily searching for him overhead could not find any trace of him.
Yun Che took in a deep breath, made himself look completely natural, and then walked toward the city gate. Just as he approached, he was obstructed by two heavily armored city guards:
“Orders from the Imperial Palace! Before seven in the morning today, no one is allowed to exit the city! Violators will be arrested on the spot.”
Chapter 413 - Profound Handle Exposed
The Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was in more than ten days, and the influx of people coming in Divine Phoenix City could be said to be increasing day by day. At this time, how could the city gates suddenly be sealed off?
The greatest possibility was that Feng Chihuo was angry that he couldn’t find him through the entire night. Since he was angry to the point where he would have fainted and revived several times, he contacted Feng Xichen to pass down an order to temporarily seal off the city gates, allowing people to enter but not leave.
Yun Che moved two steps back. A few ideas quickly flashed through his mind, then, he suddenly accelerated, forcefully knocking the two city guards aside as he charged forward.
“Stop him!!”
Yun Che’s action was no different from poking a hornet’s nest. Several tens of city guards nearby immediately rushed over. Yun Che lifted Dragon Fault and swept across without even looking at his surroundings. The might of the berserk heavy sword was like a Doomsday windstorm that ruthlessly scattered the besieging city guards flying. They couldn’t get up for a long while, and even the weapons in their hands had been instantly destroyed.
The fact that the sky was only slightly bright, added to the fact that no one would dare be impetuous in Divine Phoenix City, meant that the city guards were relatively weak. Even though they had received the order to blockade the city, the city gates were still wide open, not shut. After Yun Che swept away the obstacles, without waiting for them to react, he had already rushed out of the city gates with an extremely fast speed. As he stepped outside the city, he summoned the Snow Phoenix, then flew off into the distance.
“Quick… notify Lord Chihuo.” A city guard yelled out with all his strength.
Fifteen minutes later, a current of heat hurtled above the city gates, directly chasing in the direction Yun Che had fled. It was precisely Feng Chihuo. The order Feng Xichen gave him was for him to assassinate Yun Che secretly. Not only was no one to know about it, he wasn’t suppose to leave behind any traces. But it was clear that Feng Chihuo was already muddled by his anger. In order to thoroughly kill Yun Che, he had even brought about such a commotion. After all, being played with by a mere Earth Profound junior to a battered and exhausted state was a humiliation he had never suffered before. If he didn’t kill Yun Che, it would be difficult for him to eliminate the hatred in his heart!
The Snow Phoenix Beast’s speed was naturally faster than Yun Che by several fold. Even if Feng Chihuo went searching in the right direction, it was impossible for him to catch up in a short while. However, Yun Che was completely unfamiliar with the terrain outside Divine Phoenix City. The map Cang Yue had prepared for him only contained the route from Blue Wind Imperial City to Divine Phoenix City, as well as Divine Phoenix City’s basic composition. There were no marks or anything about the topography outside Divine Phoenix City. Whether or not he was able to find a place to completely throw off Feng Chihuo was entirely left up to fate and luck.
And it was inevitable that Feng Chihuo, as a member of Divine Phoenix Sect, was extremely familiar with this region. At the same time, even though the Snow Phoenix’s speed was fast, wherever it went, it would leave behind a sliver of cold air that would very likely turn into a trail that could be followed.
Under Yun Che’s urging, the Snow Phoenix’s speed finally reached its peak. Like a streak of lightning, it rapidly flitted across the sky. In the blink of an eye, it was already several tens of kilometers away from Divine Phoenix City.
On the way forward, Yun Che’s expression was tranquil yet dark. Most of the space around Divine Phoenix City was spacious, it was hard to find somewhere to hide. After an hour, the feeling of being pursued still did not come from behind, but Yun Che did not relax at all. He was certain that Feng Chihuo would not give up in his chase. The reason why he had not been overtaken was because the Snow Phoenix was not slower than Feng Chihuo by much.
Yun Che couldn’t help but think of Hua Minghai… In terms of profound strength level, he could not amount to even one tenth of Feng Chihuo, however, in terms of speed, he was much more faster than Feng Chihuo. If he could cultivate that “Extreme Mirage Lightning”, he could effortlessly throw off Feng Chihuo.
The only profound movement skill he possessed was Star God’s Broken Shadow. Even though Star God’s Broken Shadow was incomparably mysterious, it was limited to combat. Its existence perfectly made up for the heavy sword’s largest flaw, allowing Yun Che to still wield a heavy sword that was several tens of thousands of kilograms in weight like a phantom. But Star God’s Broken Shadow’s activation was only an instantaneous short displacement, it was absolutely not used for normal high speed movements.
An endless range of mountains appeared on Yun Che’s southwest side. Inside the mountain range were innumerable mountain peaks, the highest mountain was at least three thousand meters high. His heart stirred as he changed direction, speeding toward the row of mountains. Soon enough, he charged into the mountain range like a shooting star.
Once he entered the mountain range, an abnormal scorching sensation blasted forward, startling a few birds, scattering them about… These birds were completely red in color, and their bodies released a fiery aura.
As soon as he entered the mountain range, what he should’ve seen was green grass everywhere while feeling a slightly cold mountain wind, but once Yun Che went deeper in, he’d actually sensed that the air had distinctively gotten hotter. Every sort of vegetation also grew everywhere, but most of the plants here were red in color. Furthermore, they all released the smell of ignited flame. Ninety percent of the profound beasts he encountered on the way, were also all fire attribute profound beasts.
Don’t tell me it’s because this place is close to Divine Phoenix City, and has something to do with the strong fire element within Divine Phoenix City?
After flying around for two hours, there still was no trace of Feng Chihuo coming from behind, as though he had completely thrown him off. Yun Che slowed down and the Snow Phoenix dropped from the sky, continuously descending until they were not even three hundred meters high, to hide in the many layers of mountains. Jasmine’s low voice suddenly resounded within Yun Che’s mind: “This place is somewhat different than usual.”
“Different from usual? Where are you talking about?” Yun Che immediately asked.
“I thought that this place’s heat came from the volcano nearby, or is from a high concentrated fire element zone. But when I probed earlier, I discovered that this place has exceptionally active fire elemental particles that actually come from an enormous, hidden profound formation that’s extremely deep underground… The entire mountain range is enveloped in this profound formation. If I’m not mistaken, this enormous profound formation ought to have been set up by Divine Phoenix Sect around eight thousand years ago. At the same time, it also means that this mountain range is Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory…”
“It seems like… you came to a place that you really shouldn’t have entered!”
“Brat, let’s see where you’ll run off to this time!”
Just as Jasmine’s voice fell, a loud angry roar resounded near Yun Che’s ears. This voice came from… up ahead.
Yun Che raised his head. Feng Chihuo stood on a low mountain top in front of him with both hands behind his back.. Even though there was a great difference between them, he could still sense the surging fury released from his body. At first, Feng Chihuo thought that sending him, a Throne at the eighth rank, to personally assassinate him was like killing chicken with a butcher knife for cows. It was simply an insult to his status and ability. If not for the fact that Feng Xichen had personally ordered him, he absolutely wouldn’t be willing to do so. However, once he found his target, such an extremely simple mission that insulted his rank had not gone smoothly at all. Instead, he had been dirtied by the other party’s Heaven Decimating Orb… Within these several hours, Feng Chihuo’s fury had not ceased. If not for the fact that his body was resilient, his chest would’ve burst open several tens of times due to his rage.
Yun Che was secretly shocked, if he had been overtaken by Feng Chihuo from behind, he would not be this shocked, because not only was Feng Chihuo’s speed faster than the Snow Phoenix’s, his familiarity with this Divine Phoenix region had far surpassed his. However, what shocked him was that Feng Chihuo appeared in front of him at such a close distance, but he had never detected him.
Jasmine knew what Yun Che was thinking, and said in a low voice: “Looks like there’s big trouble up ahead. This profound formation that’s at least eight thousand years old is not that simple.”
Yun Che’s brows sunk. Then, he clutched at the Snow Phoenix’s snowy feathers on its back and yelled: “Little Chan… Go!!”
The Snow Phoenix Beast rapidly turned around, changing into a streak of an extremely fast white silhouette as it wildly flew in the opposite direction. From behind, came Feng Chihuo’s loud roar: “You still want to flee! No matter where you go, even if you have a hundred lives, don’t even think about escaping!”
The Snow Phoenix’s speed reached its pinnacle as it quickly dove down, and the mountain range on the side quickly drew back, forming two long and narrow ravines.
Yun Che glanced backwards with clenched fists, urging the Snow Phoenix to suppress its aviation, to not fly higher than thirty meters. As they approached the ravine, he channeled Frozen End Divine Arts, instantly activating “Frozen End Illusory Mirror”. At the same time, it enveloped him and the Snow Phoenix within, isolating their auras to a great extent. Then, he extended an arm, and allowed the Profound Handle to fly off into the other ravine.
This was a trick he used to disorientate those who chased after him… it was well-tried and had never been defeated before.
Behind him, Feng Chihuo pursued with a speed that wasn’t too fast, and in front of him was a bizarre, slowly revolving, fire-red profound formation. A white dot slowly moved inside the profound formation. As he looked at this white dot, Feng Chihuo exposed a ridiculing sneer… Right at this moment, his brows suddenly moved, because he suddenly felt that the direction in which the white dot in the profound formation was moving, was not the direction that Yun Che’s aura went. A huge discrepancy had actually appeared…
“What happened? How could a discrepancy appear on the Great Phoenix Formation?”
Feng Chihuo stared blankly for a while. As he raised both his hands, the hovering red colored profound formation in front of him slowly enlarged. Along with the phoenix profound strength Feng Chihuo poured into the profound formation, it spun quickly. Then, two distinct scenes slowly appeared…
In one image was Yun Che flying really fast on a Snow Phoenix…
In the other, was shockingly… an extremely fast, flying orange yellow stream of light.
Yun Che’s aura Feng Chihuo sensed… had actually came from the stream of light. Its aura and Yun Che’s aura, were exactly the same!
Seeing the orange colored stream of light, Feng Chihuo was first stunned, then, his pupils slowly contracted as his face revealed an expression of deep shock and incredibility. After a while, two words containing deep astonishment came out of his mouth…
“Profound… Handle!!”
The Snow Phoenix quickly passed through the ravine. As he looked onward, the highest mountain peak was already before his eyes, it was no less than four thousand five hundred meters tall. Feng Chihuo did not chase over, but Yun Che still did not sigh in relief. Instead, he felt that something was fishy.
He felt as if a pair of eyes had continuously been staring at him all along… how could that be possible?
Was I wrong?
“Run, keep running, let me see how far you can run to.”
Feng Chihuo’s voice suddenly resounded, and it still came from up ahead. Yun Che’s complexion slightly changed as he raised his head… Not even ninety meters up ahead was a leisurely floating Feng Chihuo with an amused expression. However, Yun Che unexpectedly did not feel any killing intent from him, and even his anger had dissipated by a lot.
This time, Yun Che was completely certain that the feeling of being watched was not his misconception. The Feng Chihuo before him was obviously using some sort of method to lock onto his movements, and what helped him, was most likely the “profound formation” which covered the entire mountain range that Jasmine mentioned.
This time, Yun Che didn’t flee at once. He coldly stared at Feng Chihuo: “Are you using this place’s profound formation to track me?”
“Oh? You are actually able to sense the Great Phoenix Formation here? Oh… I almost forgot, you are also someone with the phoenix bloodline. Otherwise, you would not have been able to enter.” Feng Chihuo walked closer and laughed coldly: “Your concealment abilities were truly unexpected, to actually make me search for you without finding a single trace of your shadow until dawn. If you fled to some other place, you might have been able to escape me, but you just happened to rush here… I’ve lived for a hundred years, and have never seen such a perfect example of the saying ‘walking straight into a trap.’”
“Great Phoenix Formation? What exactly is this place?”
“This is Phoenix Mountain Range, a place Divine Phoenix Sect uses to evaluate disciples of the young generation.” Up till here, Feng Chihuo was no longer worried about Yun Che escaping the palms of his hand. He continued calmly: “And only those with the phoenix bloodline may enter. Other humans that approach would be repelled by the Great Phoenix Formation. Since it’s an appraisal ground, we obviously have to monitor each and every disciple’s movements. And I, just happen to be one of the supervisors of this Phoenix Mountain Range. With the help of the Great Phoenix Formation, I can control everything here, even so much that I can travel through the space here using the Great Phoenix Formation.”
Yun Che: “!!”
“I had already known where you were the exact instant you entered the Phoenix Mountain Range. It’s just that you were more crafty than I thought you were, so I didn’t immediately take action to avoid you fleeing the Phoenix Mountain Range. Instead, I allowed you to go deeper in… all the way to here.” Feng Chihuo gazed straight at Yun Che, then extended a palm: “You are now like a turtle in a jar, even if you dream about it, you should not think about escaping. But don’t you worry, I suddenly don’t feel like killing you anymore, because something that would greatly interest Sect Master, and even the Four Great Sacred Grounds has appeared on your body… I didn’t expect that not only are you a bastard of our phoenix bloodline, you’re also a demon from Illusory Demon Realm! I’ve clearly seen the profound handle you used earlier!”
“!!!” Yun Che’s expression immediately sunk as an extremely strong killing intent flashed through his eyes.
Yun Che’s overall strength had no doubt increased exponentially after awakening his profound handle, but he’d actually never used his profound handle in real combat before. Even when he had nearly been forced into a dire strait by Ling Tianni, he still did not think about using his profound handle. This was because while ordinary people might not recognize the profound handle, Heavenly Sword Villa, which was linked with Mighty Heavenly Sword Region in countless ways, might recognize it.
And the profound handle was a godly technique possessed only by Illusory Demon Realm’s Yun Family. As head of the Illusory Demon Royal Family’s Twelve Guardian Families, the Yun Family was no doubt one of the Four Great Sacred Grounds’ greatest enemies. And Illusory Demon Realm had long been made into demons by the Four Great Sacred Grounds. Once the profound handle was exposed, not only would the Four Great Sacred Grounds come at him, everyone within the Seven Nations would regard him as a “demon”.
If that happens, there would not be a single place in the entire Profound Sky Continent that he could seek shelter.
The consequences were ten million times more grave than exposing his phoenix flame.
Both of Yun Che’s hands tightened as his eyes became bone-piercingly cold. Previously, he’d used all his might to escape, but now, he absolutely could not run anymore! This person, who recognized his profound handle… he had to die!
No matter what, no matter how large of a cost he had to pay, he had to kill him!
Chapter 414 - Trading a Life for a Life
“Run, why aren’t you running? Have you resigned to your fate, or have you already been scared witless?” Feng Chihuo laughed wildly: “Forget it, I ought to end our game of cat chasing mouse by now. Even though I spent so much time on you, with such an unexpected harvest, I can’t say that I’ve suffered any losses. I’ve even heard that you’re the Blue Wind Emperor’s son-in-law… Tsk, tsk. If that damned emperor of Blue Wind Nation and the other inferior nations were to know that a mighty prince consort was a demon from Illusory Demon Realm, I’m not sure how marvelous of a reaction they would have… Haha…”
After laughing to his content, Feng Chihuo’s face suddenly became darkened: “Even though I’m not going to kill you, once I give you to Sect Master… I’ll make you live a life worse than death! The debts you incurred after playing tricks on me… I’ll properly calculate them now!”
Feng Chihuo suddenly swooped down from the sky. With a sudden wave of his arm, a six meter wide column of fire instantly shot downwards. Just as it was about to approach Yun Che, it changed into a fire phoenix that danced in midair. As the temperature boiled, it nearly melted the ground.
Yun Che was not the least bit afraid of phoenix fire, but the profound energy attack of a high level Throne was still within the flame. Yun Che’s complexion grew grim as he instantly raised Dragon Fault. With a loud roar, the heavy sword force swung upwards against the air, straight for the fire phoenix.
Whoosh!!
Phoenix flame and the heavy sword’s windstorm directly clashed head-on. Yun Che’s hair had been blown up by the chaos as a distorted expression appeared on his face. The heavy sword force only lasted for half a breath before it had been completely smashed apart. The fire phoenix crazily descended, charging at Yun Che and the Snow Phoenix.
The sound of phoenix fire exploding roiled like surging thunder, as the incomparably terrifying heat suddenly inflated the surrounding space. Yun Che’s groans and the Snow Phoenix’s mournful cries came from within the blaze. One was knocked to the east while the other was knocked to the west….
“Little Chan!”
The Snow Phoenix lost its balance, as though it was a dead leaf that was being swirled inside a gale, it fell several hundred meters away… Two stretches of ghastly blood red had quickly spread on the originally snow white pair of wings. After landing on the ground, it no longer made another sound. It was, after all, only a Sky Profound Beast, how could it withstand an attack from a high level Throne?
Bang!
Yun Che also heavily fell down, the fierce attack smashed two enormous holes on the ground. After he fell, the clothes on Yun Che’s entire body were broken into pieces, dyed all over with bloodstains. All four of his limbs twitched unceasingly, and it seemed as if he used all his strength to lift Dragon Fault. While struggling to finally stand, he panted with his mouth open in huge coarse breaths.
“Jasmine, with my current body, what is the maximum time I can maintain ‘Purgatory’?” Yun Che asked grimly.
Jasmine was also very clear that since Feng Chihuo recognized Yun Che’s profound handle, he had to die no matter what. If he wanted to kill Feng Chihuo, he had to forcibly open Purgatory’s gate. She said carefully: “Fifteen breaths… as for the most extreme limit, it cannot exceed twenty breaths. Otherwise, all the blood vessels in your body will rupture, even your Great Way of the Buddha won’t be able to save you!”
“Tsk tsk, not bad. No wonder our prince had specially sent me to kill you. You do have some ability, after receiving a move that contains thirty percent of my strength, you actually had not been beaten half dead, and can even stand up.”
Feng Chihuo casually dropped from midair toward Yun Che. The disdain in his eyes was as though he was looking at lamb about to be slaughtered. He moved his wrist, as malice flickered in his eyes: “You made quite a bit of blood flow from this arm of mine, there are even a few cracks that have appeared in my bones. In order to repay this favor of yours, tell me, should I snap every bone in your body, or pinch each and every one of them into pieces?”
Yun Che clenched his teeth and forcibly lifted the heavy sword as his entire body tottered on the verge of collapse: “Even if I die, even if I have to risk my life, I’m still going to… leave a few more injuries on your body!”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che roared. Swinging the heavy sword up, he smashed toward Feng Chihuo, who was only three steps away from him.
“Hahahaha!” The incoming heavy sword did not have the least bit of imposingness, rather, it seemed as if it was about to fall from Yun Che’s grasp any moment. Feng Chihuo laughed out loud as he extended a hand to grab at Dragon Fault: “You alone, can actually injure…”
Just as Feng Chihuo’s hand was about to touch Dragon Fault, Yun Che’s expression suddenly changed. “Purgatory” opened, and Yun Che, who was on the verge of collapse, seemed like a ferocious beast that had suddenly awakened from the abyss as his entire body bursted with a incredibly frightening strength.
“Falling Moon Sinking Star!!”
A sky tremoring dragon cry came from Dragon Fault as the ground beneath Yun Che’s feet suddenly shook. Cracks resembling spider webs crazily spread… this sudden variation greatly changed Feng Chihuo’s complexion. At such a close range, even if he was a deity, he would still not have time to react… That one strike brimming with all of Yun Che’s power ruthlessly smashed on his arm.
Boom!!
The cracking sound of bone disintegrating was drowned within a world-shaking explosion. The surrounding mountain stones were all twisted upwards by the heavy sword tornado, then, they were all crushed into the most minute of fragmented dust. Feng Chihuo’s left elbow bone had been directly smashed broken. Under the enormous attack, his entire person flew like a spinning top as he was smashed three hundred meters away, firmly ramming into a large mountain boulder, crushing it into smithereens.
With Yun Che’s strength, defeating Ling Tianni at the sixth level of the Emperor Profound Realm required the joint help of Xia Qingyue. In normal instances, prevailing over Feng Chihuo at the eighth level of the Emperor Profound Realm was something he had no chance of ever doing! If he was able to sustain Purgatory, he might be able to confront Feng Chihuo, but it was also near impossible… Besides, he could only maintain the Purgatory state for at most fifteen breaths. After fifteen breaths, he would be toying with fate, and after twenty breaths, he would be courting death.
And the only hope he had to kill Feng Chihuo… was to utilize all his strength and willpower, so much that he had to overdraft his life force! At the same time, he had to use any kind of tactics and tricks —— no matter how shameless and despicable they were.
With Yun Che’s current body strength, Feng Chihuo’s attack that contained thirty percent of his strength was still a fire attribute attack, it was impossible to place him in too miserable of a state. Even the utterly tattered clothes and those numerous little wounds were all devised by him… they were all for this one moment. And the results were even better than what he had anticipated… directly crippling one of Feng Chihuo’s arms!
Facing Feng Chihuo, who only had one arm left, his chances had naturally gotten better!
Feng Chihuo got up from the crushed rocks with an extremely angry snarl. His entire left arm dangled, its shape appearing to be hideously twisted. His right arm grabbed onto it as he felt intolerable pain. With most of the bones in his left arm broken, he howled, as if insane: “Yun Che… I’m going to tear you into ten thousand pieces!!”
Feng Chihuo had lived for over one hundred years, his combat experience was incomparably rich, so he was definitely not one of those who were arrogant and condescending. On the contrary, even when facing an opponent weaker than himself, he would still be very cautious… However, Yun Che was just too weak. Earth Profound Realm was two great realms weaker than him, how could he possibly be on guard? A fierce tiger going up against a wounded wolf might be on guard, but how could a tiger be on guard against a wounded young rabbit?
The acute pain in his arm was unbearable, yet far beneath the shock in his heart… The power Yun Che suddenly exploded out with just a while ago was only a strength a high level Throne could put forth, how could it appear from a profound practitioner at the Earth Profound Realm?
Just as he let out a howl, the figure before him swayed, and Yun Che had already attacked again, bringing along an imposing force not weaker than before. His eyes especially, flickered with a blood red radiance.
“Die!!” Instantly submerging in his anger and hatred, Feng Chihuo roared as his right arm shot out. The palm he poured his berserking profound energy in directly grabbed at Yun Che’s chest… with the intent to immediately tear Yun Che’s heart into pieces. Due to the arm that had been smashed broken, why would he care whether or not Yun Che was a demon from Illusory Demon Realm? Under his extreme fury, he only wanted to tear him into pieces.
RIIIP!!
Feng Chihuo’s palm struck empty air, as four Yun Ches appeared around him at the same time. Since Feng Chihuo had plenty of experience, even though he was shocked, his mind had not been thrown into disorder. Instead of locking onto Yun Che’s position, all the phoenix profound energy in his body rushed forth, launching out in all four directions.
Bang!!
Yun Che quickly dodged behind Feng Chihuo, then firmly smashed Dragon Fault on Feng Chihuo’s back. At the same time, Feng Chihuo instantly ignited his profound energy and also firmly struck Yun Che’s chest.
The two different forces exploded simultaneously, causing so much shaking that even the surrounding mountains violently trembled. A bloody flower burst out of Yun Che’s chest as he was ruthlessly knocked flying. Feng Chihuo was even more miserable, he had been fiercely smashed to the ground by Dragon Fault, and then rolled far away like a gourd. A groove half a finger deep was smashed out onto his back. He used a palm to pound the ground and suddenly jumped up. Before he had time to stand firm, he suddenly discovered that the Yun Che he had sent flying was actually floating in midair. Then, Yun Che’s entire body combusted with flame as he dove down like a shooting star.
Empyrean Dance of the Phoenix Wing!!
“Wha…What!?!”
Feng Chihuo widened his eyes, not daring to believe the fact that Yun Che was actually in midair, and was even borrowing the power that knocked him into the air. His gaze darkened as a ball of extremely powerful phoenix flame ignited on the palm of his right hand… Contained in this palm, was the unrestrained accumulation of all his strength, and he shot it at Yun Che within his raging roar.
Facing against Feng Chihuo’s attack, Yun Che’s descent had not diminished in the slightest, even the direction in which he was diving toward had not changed, as if he was willing to risk his life to receive Feng Chihuo’s attack in order to smash out a strike of his own… Once his all out attack had come out, it was too late to retrieve it even if Feng Chihuo wanted to. Facing Yun Che’s fighting style that was entirely trading a life for a life, Feng Chihuo’s eyes fixedly stared wide, and he explosively roared: “You’re courting death!!”
BOOOM!!!!!!
Yun Che’s Dragon Fault and Feng Chihuo’s palm heavily struck the other party’s body at the same time… Numerous blood vessels on Yun Che’s arm ruptured instantly as a huge expanse of blood burst from his chest. Several bones in his ribs and sternum broke apart, and several lines of gaps had even appeared on his internal organs. His entire person had been smashed over a height of three hundred meters.
While the sternum and ribs of Feng Chihuo’s left side were all jolted into pieces, the position of his heart directly shifted by an inch as streams of blood sprayed out of the wound like a geyser. He was unable to believe that he had actually been severely injured to such an extent by a strike from a junior at the Earth Profound Realm, while his own all out attack had not smashed the other party into pieces. In fact, his power had not even entered the opponent’s internal organs, and had actually been firmly resisted against.
That kind of power, that kind of body… how could it only be at the Earth Profound Realm… How was that possible!!
In this brief exchange, the two were both completely covered in blood and injuries. This was because what Yun Che wanted was not an exchange, the preservation of his own life, nor Feng Chihuo’s defeat, rather, he wanted his death! In order to kill Feng Chihuo, he had to throw out all his power into his attacks in these short dozen or so breaths instead of dispersing his power and time to defend or evade.
“Sky——Wolf——Slash!!”
Without attending to his internal and external injuries, the midair Yun Che didn’t wait for himself to regain his balance as he placed all his strength on his heavy sword once more. The silhouette of the Sky Wolf howled as it charged toward Feng Chihuo, furiously ramming onto his chest… Feng Chihuo conjured all the strength within his body to rigidly block the sky wolf silhouette, but due to the extremely fast propelling force of the attack, he was pushed backwards. It was only after both his legs instantly plowed two ditches over thirty meters long across the ground did he barely offset Sky Wolf Slash’s might. However, before he had time to gasp for breath, Yun Che had already fallen from the sky, blasting a strike over.
Feng Chihuo let out a loud cry as he condensed his flame into a sword. But this time, he didn’t attack Yun Che, rather, he put all his strength on the phoenix flame sword to suppress Yun Che’s heavy sword… Each one of Yun Che’s moves were executed without any concern to his own life, but how could Feng Chihuo willingly trade lives with Yun Che? Against such a terrifyingly large power and the lunatic Yun Che, who was trading injury for injury, his anger had already been rapidly replaced by dread and fear.
With every single sword strike Yun Che smashed out, several tens of blood vessels on his arm would burst open. Both his arms were instantly dyed with blood, as if they had just been submerged in a pool of blood. The wounds on his body endlessly spewed out blood, and the internal injuries in his body continually grew more severe as he attacked without reserve. But he didn’t mind it at all; every single sword strike was vicious to the extreme.
Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom…
Chapter 415 - Brutal
Each strike from Yun Che that Feng Chihuo blocked felt as though a mountain was ruthlessly ramming him, directly shaking him so hard that his internal organs felt like rupturing. Facing Yun Che’s blood red eyes and the terrifying impact that passed through his arms, he began to genuinely grow fearful… At this time, under the suppression of Yun Che’s heavy sword, let alone retreating to escape, he couldn’t even let out a single word.
Yun Che’s vision had already changed into a field of hazy red, and only Chihuo remained in this red colored world. The only thing in his heart was an abundant amount of killing intent. However, Feng Chihuo was still a high level Throne, even if it was Yun Che’s attack in his strongest state, they were still blocked one after the other. Yun Che’s expression grew more overcast as a streak of cyan suddenly emitted out of his left arm.
The lowest level profound handle was red, it became orange after possessing the Dragon God’s bloodline, then yellow under the Evil Soul state. Under the Burning Heart state, it became green, and now that he was in the “Purgatory” state…
It had shockingly become the same cyan Yun Canghai possessed! Cyan colored profound handle was equal to one half of the user’s strength!
Under the state where he pushed himself to the limit, utilizing the profound handle would undoubtedly accelerate his energy consumption by a substantial amount and cause an intense battering of impact which would lead to unpredictable consequences. However, in order to thoroughly suppress Feng Chihuo, Yun Che nevertheless decided to use the profound handle.
Bang!!
Feng Chihuo was already barely managing to withstand the heavy sword. Once the profound handle came out, he no longer had any energy left to obstruct that, and was firmly hit on the head with the profound handle… The sound of an explosion instantly came from his head as his entire person was knocking off flying. Then, he fell one hundred fifty meters away on the ground, he smashed out a large hole several meters deep with his head and upper body buried at the bottom of the large hole.
“AH!!! You bas…”
Feng Chihuo released an animal-like roar as he ferociously lept out of the large hole. His entire face was filled with blood, his complexion, an even brighter red. On his forehead was shockingly a bloody dent the size of a fist. He was discomforted to the point where he appeared insane but before had time to let out a flurry of curses, the figure before his eyes flashed. An ash colored heavy sword ignited with phoenix flame once more appeared within his pupils, along with the cyan profound hand that had changed into a heavy sword.
Feng Chihuo’s eyes became scarlet as both hands clutched his sword. He threw in all his power into the flame sword before greeting Yun Che’s heavy sword and profound hand.
BOOM!!!!
In that instant, three short mountains near the two had simultaneously crashed down from the shaking. The mountains that had been reduced to level ground was as if a blood moon had risen. Inside the blood moon, all the boulders and trees had all been demolished into fine powder. The two people were dead leaves that had been caught in two separate storms as they lightly fluttered down in two different directions.
Bang!!
Feng Chihuo’s body fiercely smashed onto an ancient tree. He fell flipped over on the ground and violently coughed. Every cough would bring along a large amount of blood clots as he nearly coughed out the smashed pieces of his internal organs out… However, even at such a state, he still didn’t have time to gasp for breath because Yun Che’s silhouette emerged before his eyes like a ghost once more.
Yun Che’s current condition looked even worse than his, his entire body was bloody, there wasn’t a single spot on his face nor limbs that had not been dyed blood red. Especially the heavy sword he was grabbing onto with both hands, streams and streams of blood flowed and dripped down. However, his imposing aura and demonic speed had not decreased in the slightest. Just as Feng Chihuo’s gaze captured him, in the next instant, Yun Che Star God’s Broken Shadow’d to his front.
“You… lunatic!!” Feng Chihuo’s eyeballs were shocked to the point they had nearly burst out. Even though he had received Yun Che’s heavy strike, Yun Che had obviously also received the strike that contained all his power. He also could see how gravely injured Yun Che was currently… but under such a conditions, he actually was not suppressing his wounds, rather, he was continuing his assault!
Feng Chihuo had lived for over one hundred years. It wasn’t as if he had never seen a lunatic before, but he had never seen a lunatic that had become crazed to this extent.
He tightly gritted his teeth. Just as he was about to gather up all the profound energy within his body, his eyes suddenly enlarged… reflected on his eyes was an azure blue dragon roaring up at the sky.
Dragon Soul Domain!
The soul shaking dragon cry resounded through the skies of the Phoenix Mountain Range, making numbers fire profound beasts all crouch on the ground while trembling in fear. Feng Chihuo’s entire body began shivering as deep fright continually condensed atop his face. The profound energy he had just conjured had quickly scattered under his fright…
Yun Che’s maintaining of the “Purgatory” state was also quickly approaching its utmost limit. If he could, he really wanted to use “Destroying Sky Decimating Earth” to obliterate Feng Chihuo, but due to the severeness of his internal injuries, his body was on the edge of collapse. If he used “Destroying Sky Decimating Earth” his body would perhaps explode instantly.
Using Dragon Soul Domain would overdraft his remaining power, making an enormous tear appear within his mental state. But under the circumstance of not being able to use Destroying Sky Decimating Earth, even if the price was huge, in order to put an end to this accident and completely eliminate Feng Chihuo, he opened Dragon Soul Domain without hesitation. Not only would Dragon Soul Domain allow him to hit his target, the most important thing it did was forcing all of the opponents profound energy defense to completely disintegrate.
If it was under normal circumstances, as a high level Throne, the effects of Dragon Soul Domain would lessen by a great amount to Feng Chihuo. But due to all the injuries on his body had greatly disorientated Feng Chihuo. With his mind mostly crushed, Yun Che suddenly charged in with the last of his gathered power condensed on top of both his hands.
“Falling Moon Sinking Star!!”
The heavy sword lifted, phoenix flame rose. Dragon Fault, which bore the last of Yun Che’s strength, brought along the aura of a death god as it smashed toward Feng Chihuo’s heart… Confronted with the fast approaching death, Feng Chihuo instinctively extended both his hands to protect his front within his trembling terror, barely managing to set up a profound energy defensive barrier.
Boom!!!!
The ground burst open. Under his crumbling state of mind, Feng Chihuo’s constructed defense popped like a weak soap bubble. In the midst of the world shaking sound, lines and lines of cracks rapidly spread beneath his feet, directly extending to more than three hundred meters. As for Feng Chihuo, he had completely disappeared from his line of sight… it was not known how deep his body had been sunk deep into the ground.
Pitter-patter…
Pitter-patter…
Fresh blood flowed from the webs of Yun Che’s fingers like pearls from a broken string, quickly trickling drip by drip onto the ruins underfoot. His previous all-out attack made countless cracks appear on his entire body. Blood dyed his body, making him resemble a bloody demon god, an Asura coming out of the battlefield. Even the wind brushing past his body carried the pungent smell of blood.
Finally… over…
Bang!!
Dragon Fault powerlessly dropped from Yun Che’s hands. In the midst of its heavy landing sound, the red light in Yun Che’s eyes disappeared. The profound handle had also return back in his arm as his eyes slowly closed. After his entire body swayed, he finally heavily fell onto the ground… When he had decided that he had to kill Feng Chihuo, he knew that this battle would be a terribly brutal one. Because with his current strength, wanting to kill a high level Throne required him to pay an extremely large cost. He had finally succeeded… An Earth Profound killing a late stage Emperor Profound, he could be said to have created a never before seen legend in the Profound Sky Continent.
This outcome’s crucial point stemmed from the very first time he had caught Feng Chihuo off guard and destroyed an arm. Otherwise, even in a state where he forced himself to the limit, it would be difficult for him to suppress Feng Chihuo.
“Have to… quickly… leave… this place…”
Yun Che struggled to stretch out an arm. Pressing the dirty before him, he had to exhaust almost all his strength to crawl a few inches forward. What he ought to do now should be tending to his wounds, but this place was Phoenix Mountain Rage, Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory! Below him, still existed the Great Phoenix Formation. The sounds of his battle with Feng Chihuo was extremely loud, it was quite possible that it had already alerted a few members of the Divine Phoenix Sect. If he didn’t leave right away, the consequences would be unthinkable. Forget about whether the person who came over was a Throne, even the lowest level disciple in Divine Phoenix Sect could take his life.
He looked at his left hand and continuously summoned for the Snow Phoenix. However, even though the profound seal had flashed a multiple number of times, The Snow Phoenix still had never appeared. The profound seal had not disappeared, proof that the Snow Phoenix had not died yet. However, Feng Chihuo’s attack was enough to make it seriously injured to the point of near death.
“Huff… Huff… Ugh…”
Heavy moans of pain suddenly came from the direction where Yun Che held out his hand. Furthermore, it sounded far, yet near. Yun Che’s complexion changed. Little by little, he turned his head around. A hand suddenly appeared from the very edge of the ravine carved out by a Sky Wolf Slash… Then, a completely bloody figure slowly crawled up.
Feng Chihuo!!
“Drats… he’s not dead yet!” Jasmine said in a low voice.
It could be said that the current Feng Chihuo was at his most miserable state. His entire body had been badly mutilated, not the least bit of a human’s appearance could be seen, but he was actually clearly alive. Moreover, judging by how quick he was climbing out of that ravine, it was clear that his condition was at least comparatively better than Yun Che’s.
Impossible… Under Dragon Soul Domain… He basically had no power to defend… How could he not have died…
Feng Chihuo, who had climbed up, swayed as he stood up. Seeing the bloody Yun Che sprawled on the ground, he continued to sway as he let out a coarse yet crazed laughter: “Ha… Haha… Hahahaha… How… could a little… bastard… like you… kill me…”
He advanced forward. As he stepped closer to Yun Che, a terrifying maliciousness surfaced on his face: “I’m going to… tear your entire body… bit by bit… thoroughly into shreds…”
Right at this time, an enormous silhouette suddenly swept over from overheard accompanied by a somewhat frail long cry. Yun Che struggled to lift his head. After that, wild joy rose within his eyes: “Little Chan!!”
Half of the snowy feathers on the Snow Phoenix had become the color of blood, but it still strongly flew over. As it flew above Yun Che, both its wings swatted and three streaks of gleaming cold icicles launched straight at Feng Chihuo.
Pew pew pew!!
If it was in normal circumstances, how could the Snow Phoenix’s attack possible harm Feng Chihuo? But Feng Chihuo’s body was currently utterly broken, even his steps were unstable, so it was simply impossible for him to defend against the Snow Phoenix’s attack. The three icicles easily pierced right through Feng Chihuo’s body. Included among them was one that struck a fist sized bloody hole through his throat.
Feng Chihuo’s eyes rounded. Under the icicle attack, he heavily fell backwards and moved no more. Beneath his body, was a quickly expanding large pool of blood… This time, he was dead to the point where he could no longer die. He had perhaps thought about how his life would end, but he never would have thought that he would die so tragically, nor would he have imagined that he would die under the hands of a profound practitioner of the Earth Profound Realm and his contracted Sky Profound Beast.
Yun Che let out a deep breath of relief. As his mind relaxed, the side effects of using Dragon Soul Domain violently surged up, making his greatly impacting his consciousness into a muddled state. He extended a hand at the Snow Phoenix and said in a hoarse voice: “Little Chan… Let’s… go… the higher the better… the farther the better…”
The Snow Phoenix conjured up a light breeze, lifting Yun Che up on its back. Then, it flapped his wings, flying high into the skies.
Yun Che’s heart was at long last settled somewhat, and it was just at this time that Jasmine’s cold voice suddenly sounded: “You’d best stay conscious…. You should know why it had not immediately arrived after you had called it so many times, it’s inevitable that its wounds are extremely severe, not only that, it had been injured in the wings. Even though it managed to fly now, I doubt that it could fly far.”
Yun Che “…”
Jasmine definitely didn’t say that just to scare him. Yun Che bit the tip of his tongue, allowing himself a brief period of consciousness. He immediately felt the Snow Phoenix’s entire body tremble acutely. Usually, when it encountered a large gale, it would still fly smoothly, but now, a casual mountain breeze blowing over would cause its body to violently sway.
“Little Chan… You can do it!” Yun Che yelled softly. If he could not fly out of Phoenix Mountain Range, he would definitely die.
However, he had obviously underestimated the Snow Phoenix Beast’s injuries. After struggling to fly over a few kilometers, a strong breeze came head-on. Under this strong breeze, the Snow Phoenix immediately let out a painful cry as both wings suddenly spasmed before it dropped down.
“Little Chan!!”
In front of Yun Che’s shout, the Snow Phoenix didn’t react at all because it had already fainted in midair. Yun Che possessed the Phoenix bloodline, the Dragon God’s bloodline, the protection of the True God’s profound arts, and a completely changed body, so no matter how serious of an injury he obtained, he could still endure. But the Snow Phoenix was different, it was only an ordinary Sky Profound Beast. Struggling to fly for so long with its grave injuries was already its limit.
Following the Snow Phoenix’s midair collapse, Yun Che didn’t even have the energy to clutch at its snowy wings and was slowly separated from the Snow Phoenix as they fell… Not long after they fell, Yun Che’s body heavily smashed into soil that wasn’t even that hard… It was apparently a huge slanted slope, because after he fell, he quickly rolled downwards with the Snow Phoenix Beast. As he rolled, his half conscious vision saw the place they were tumbling toward. It was actually… an extremely steep cliff!! He saw various mountain peaks over the cliff… and none were higher than the mountain peak he was currently rolling down from.
In that split second, he immediately understood that he and the Snow Phoenix had fallen on top of that highest mountain peak in Phoenix Mountain Range. They were currently tumbling down from highest summit… from an altitude of over four thousand five hundred meters…
His body had finally tumbled down the cliff, then, his tumbling changed into a sharp drop… With his head facing upwards, he couldn’t see the ground beneath him. He didn’t know if the upper part of the mountain or the middle of the mountain was beneath him… or if he would directly drop to the bottom of the mountain.
The whistling of the wild wind swept over, with his mind and body severely overspent along with his grave injuries, he was unable to control his body that was currently in midair, so much that he was unable to conjure up any profound energy defense… He wasn’t sure if the bloodline he obtained from gods and his powerful natural defense could withstand the force of impact he would receive from falling under a state in which he had no profound energy defense… Whether or not his body and bones would directly be torn and crushed…
The howling of the wind drowned out all other sounds. Aside from the whistling of the wind, there was nothing in Yun Che’s consciousness, he didn’t even have the strength to scream. After several tens of breaths passed, the sound of the wind beside his ears still screamed out. Until finally…
Bang!!!!
He heard the enormous sound of himself falling and the barely discernable fearful cry of a girl…
All the painful sensations in his entire body quickly faded away along with his fuzz consciousness… Half of the last scene he saw was the tall mountain cliff, and the other half was the blue sky… then, the face of a girl that was as beautiful as a dream appeared from the blue sky. Her wide eyes were even brighter than the stars gazed at him. These eyes were as pure as the bright moon, brimming with sincerity, horror, astonishment, and curiosity… Yun Che had seen many beautiful women, but this illusory beauty n front of him still caused his mind to uncontrollably shake…
So beautiful…
Is it a fairy… from the heavens…
This image of a beauty that should not belong in the mortal world became the last thing Yun Che was conscious of. After that, he completely lost consciousness.
Chapter 416 - Princess Snow
Not long after, Yun Che finally recovered some of his consciousness, and pain could be felt through every part of his body. In order to kill Feng Chihuo, he had paid a large price, one that was larger than he had expected. Nearly half of all his blood vessels had ruptured, seventy percent of his muscles received various levels of harm, and several tens of various sized gaps appeared inside his internal organs. If these injuries were on any ordinary profound practitioner’s body, they would long since been dead.
The painful sensation told Yun Che that he had not died, as his bodily functions also began to recover. He vaguely sensed a current of warm profound energy slowly flowing through his body… This was not his profound energy, rather, it was someone else’s. This stream of profound energy was gentle and careful, as if it wanted to heal his injuries, yet was also afraid of accidentally injuring him. This cautious and hesitant activity proved that the owner of this profound energy had never used profound energy to heal injuries.
Who could it be…
Who’s saving me…
At this moment, the scene he saw before he lost consciousness appeared inside Yun Che’s mind… That was a beautiful and pure face that should not exist in the mortal world. Even though he only had a glimpse of it in the extremely short instant before he lost consciousness, it still left a long lasting mark and had been engraved in the depths of his soul. No matter who saw it, that kind of beauty was impossible to forget for an entire lifetime.
Was it a dream… or a painting on a scroll? No… even in a dream, even if it was the best artist in the world, that kind of peerless beauty was impossible to portray.
That beautiful dream-like face made Yun Che’s consciousness that had just awakened feel an uncontrollable hazy intoxication, even the pain in his body had been forgotten. That current of warm profound energy slowly disappeared, and Yun Che’s consciousness went silent.
Not long after that, Yun Che’s consciousness awakened once more, and still felt that warm and gentle profound energy. The time after that, his consciousness continuously woke and slept. Every time it recovered, he would feel that stream of profound energy… or perhaps every time that stream of profound energy came over, his consciousness would awaken for a short period of time.
In the end, at some moment in time, the fingers on both of Yun Che’s hands twitched, as his incredibly heavy eyelids opened bit by bit under the urging of his willpower.
What entered his eyes was a bright light and the blue sky. Yun Che’s body had an astonishing recovery rate. As soon as he opened his eyes, he felt the existence of his body and four limbs. Even though they were heavy, he distinctly felt that he could control their movements. A bit of profound energy also had collected inside the originally empty profound veins. These profound energies also helped his body recover its bodily functions, so much that they allowed him to move in the simplest of actions… including standing up.
Yun Che grabbed the ground, gritted his teeth, and struggled to sit up…
“Ah, you’re awake!”
The sound of a girl’s voice came over to his ears, this voice was young and tender, a sound so ethereal that it seemed to not be from this world. When he heard this voice, an uncontrollable shudder came over Yun Che’s soul, as well as a kind of crazy, unsuppressable longing… a longing to know the owner of this voice, to know what kind of girl could let out such a pure, ethereal voice.
He turned his head to look at the girl who was standing beside him… It was a girl that seemed to have walked out of the fairy realm. Once he clearly saw her face, Yun Che’s consciousness suddenly blanked out for an instant, not daring to believe the image before his eyes… because he didn’t dare to believe that such an incomparably beautiful face existed in this world. Yun Che searched his own memories, yet still couldn’t come up with any words to describe how this face looked like.
The girl wore a luxurious red garment, embroidered on top was a flying phoenix. This was not the first time Yun Che had seen a phoenix robe, but her phoenix robe was even more gorgeous than the one Yun Che had seen before. No matter the red or the golden color, both glistened brightly, as though every thread and every decoration was made of the world’s most expensive material. However, this phoenix robe was like cosmetics on jade, overshadowed by her snowy creamy skin. If this extravagant outfit was seen someplace else, it would leave one dumbstruck, yet would never attract any of Yun Che’s attention. His eyes fixed on the girl’s face, incapable of moving away. Especially her beautiful eyes… they seemed to billow like blue ripples, condensed inside her dreamy, illusory pupils, becoming a illusory, poetic, fairy-like dream.
This was that fairy he saw before he lost consciousness… and not from his imagination, nor an illusion. She stood there quietly as her silky eyelashes fluttered, with not a single bit of impurity, her eyes had a joyous expression of clear mountains and springs. Then, she looked at him with somewhat nervousness. The gently wind lifted the corner of her skirts, bringing about a simple elegance, yet the most beautiful poem of this world could not describe it.
She looked to only be around fifteen or sixteen, her beautiful dreamy, liquid eyes were young. In terms of appearance, she couldn’t compare with Xia Qingyue, but in terms of how delicate and perfect her complexion was, even Xia Qingyue, number one fairy of Blue Wind, was inferior. In Yun Che’s two lifetimes, out of all the females he had encountered, in terms of complexion, only Jasmine could stand shoulder to shoulder with her. It was as if the heavens favored her, and gave her this fairy-like complexion before his eyes.
If he was an ordinary man, he believed that his heart would definitely be lost, but he wasn’t an ordinary man. In the entire Profound Sky Continent, it was perhaps impossible to find a second who could make him forget himself like that just with their complexion. He suddenly moved his gaze away, slightly bent his head as he calmed his heart. When he lifted his head to look at her fairy-like face again, it was still indescribably beautiful, but he was no longer distracted.
He opened his dried lips, speaking with a hoarse and rough voice: “Was it you… who saved me…”
“Um… It seems like it.” The girl slightly perked her flowerlike lips and spoke as though she was uncertain: “This is the first time I tried to save someone, so I’m not sure if I did it right. It’s been many days, and I wasn’t sure if I should tell royal father, but good thing you woke up. Oh right, what’s your name? Which elder are you under? Why did you fall down from Absolute Phoenix Cliff?
The girl’s casual “royal father” caused Yun Che’s heart to violently tremble.
Royal father…
Extremely luxurious phoenix robe…
Around fifteen to sixteen years old…
And a face so beautiful to the point of being illusory…
Was she actually the one Hua Minghai spoke of, the “Princess Snow” known as Profound Sky’s number one beauty!?
Originally, Hua Minghai had used an exaggerated tone of voice when mentioning “Princess Snow”, so he never believed it. But this girl in front of him, it was indeed adequate for her to be titled “Profound Sky’s number one beauty” because of her face.
However, if she really was Princess Snow, the most treasured pearl of Divine Phoenix Sect, the entire Divine Phoenix Empire’s treasure bestowed by the heavens… then why was she here? When she said “many days”, it meant that he had lost consciousness for several days. And in these past “many days”, she had always been here! What exactly was going on? What exactly was the current situation he was in?
Yun Che’s mind quickly spun as every kind of possibility rapidly flashed in his mind. He shifted his body, his cordial tone of voice containing a hint of terror: “My name is Feng Lingyun, under Nineteenth Elder. I was training alone inside Phoenix Mountain Range and encountered an extremely terrifying profound beast, then was forced to jump off Absolute Phoenix Cliff… I thank Princess Snow for saving my life.”
The girl’s eyes were clear, and as bright as early morning. In front of these beautiful eyes and this girl who had saved his life, it was no doubt an enormous sin to lie. But since he had not recovered from his grave injuries, what he had to do right now was to protect his own life, no matter what. He knew the reason why this girl had saved him, and the reason why she wasn’t on guard with him was because he possessed the same phoenix aura she did.
“Ohhh…” Princess Snow innocently tilted her delicate head. Then, her fine brows bent, as she started to laugh lightly: “As expected of what royal father said, you knew who I was in an instant. Royal father said that within the sect, even though there aren’t many who have seen me, as long as it’s someone within the clan, even if they’ve never seen me before, they would recognize me instantly.
The girl laughed with sincerity, it was as if her laughter was heavenly music that came from between the clouds which could rinse the most evil of thoughts from the world. Yun Che opened his mouth, and uttered: “Your Highness is the most beautiful girl in the world, no matter who it sees Princess Snow, they would never recognize falsely… This place, where is this? Have I… disturbed Your Highness’s secluded cultivation?”
“This is Phoenix Perching Valley, a place that I’ve played in since childhood.” Princess Snow was not on guard with Yun Che at all as she casually replied. Perhaps it was his phoenix bloodline, or perhaps it was because she had always been this pure, and never had contact with any sin, nor had to be on guard at all: “Royal father has been really busy lately and is afraid that I’ll be hurt by others, so he allowed me to come here to concentrate on cultivating World Ode of the Phoenix. Aside from me and royal father, usually no one is allowed to enter, you’re actually the first, you know.”
“…Your Highness, then why didn’t you tell… Sect Master about me? Your Highness is not afraid that I… could be a bad person?” Yun Che clasped his chest, checking the condition of his injuries.
“I did think about telling royal father.” The girl stuck out her white, graceful, jadelike nose: “But if I tell royal father, he’ll definitely kill you. You fell from such a high place, and is already this injured. If you’re killed by royal father, that would be too pitiful, and Little White would be sad. Bad person? …You’re the same as me, a descendant of the Phoenix, how could you be a bad person? Besides, Little White is so beautiful and docile, its owner would never be a bad person.”
What saved Yun Che was not only her profound energy, but her soft heart —— even though he used such an abrupt method to enter her territory. Only… Little White? What did that mean?
By his ears, a somewhat weak, yet still resonant cry of a bird sounded. This sound made Princess Snow softly “ah” as she turned around, then lithely ran like a sprite toward a magnificent, snow white silhouette: “Little White, your injuries have not recovered, you’re not allowed to move, otherwise, that means you’re not being obedient… even if you see that your owner is awake, you still can’t move rashly.”
On the ground not even thirty meters behind Yun Che was the Snow Phoenix Beast. Its wings were unfolded, and the bloodstains on its wings had been washed clean, without any trace of a bloody color. Princess Snow stood by its side and used her little snow white hands to lightly stroke its soft, ice-cold, snowy feather. From an agitated state, she made it obediently calm down as it carefully withdrew its wings.
Yun Che was shocked… it was the Snow Phoenix! It was actually okay! His own body could barely resist falling from such a high place, but the Snow Phoenix had already lost consciousness mid flight, unable to fully make itself float and use any defensive abilities. From such a height, it had sharply fallen down, so its bones and body ought to have been crushed. Why did it seem that its injuries were much more lighter than his own?
Could it be that this girl had saved the Snow Phoenix before it fell?
Then, the “White” she spoke of, was… Snow Phoenix Little Chan!
Chapter 417 - Snow Dance (1)
“You’re the one… who saved Little Chan?”
Seeing the Snow Phoenix safe and sound, with injuries already largely healed, Yun Che felt much more at ease.
“That’s right.” Princess Snow turned around and said happily: “It fell down after you and I had to support it with my strength. Otherwise, Little White would have fallen to death already. Eh? Little Chan? That’s her name? Ehhh… What a weird name. I think that Little White sounds so much better, isn’t that right, Little White?”
Scree… Snow Phoenix lowered its head and let out a clear low cry. From how it acted, it seemed as though… It agreed with Princess Snow.
Through the profound seal, Yun Che felt that the Snow Phoenix’s injuries had already healed to about seventy percent. Flying out of the Phoenix Mountain Range would not be a problem at all. Even though its conditions were still extremely poor, staying at such a place would be too dangerous. Now that he had regained consciousness, he would have to leave immediately.
Yun Che gathered all the strength within his body and stood up unsteadily. As he stood up, Princess Snow’s beautiful eyes stared wide as she exclaimed worriedly: “You… Why did you stand up. With such serious injuries, you shouldn’t move around.”
Yun Che shook his head gently and said: “I thank Princess Snow for saving me and Little Chan. I will forever remember your kindness towards us. However, this place is Princess Snow’s territory. Me dropping down here is already an unforgivable crime. I do not dare… to disturb Your Highness… Little Chan… Let’s go… Ugh!”
A sudden intense pain came from his chest and Yun Che face paled immediately as he spat out a mouth of blood mist with a “puu”. His body staggered and he half knelt to the ground.
“Ahhhh!” Princess Snow screamed in shock and rushed towards Yun Che, instinctively wanting to go forward to lend him a hand. However, as she neared him, she suddenly stopped and even retracted the hand that she had offered. She’d even retreated a few steps and said nervously: “You… How are you? I already said, with such serious injuries, you shouldn’t be moving around. Hurry up and rest. I… I will try my best to use my profound energy to help you recuperate your injuries.”
Yun Che supported himself by placing his hand on the ground. After a while, he finally calmed down. He shook his head and persisted: “It’s alright, I do not dare to continue to interrupt Your Highness. Furthermore, if Sect Master were to find out, I would definitely… Cough… Cough cough…”
Yun Che’s chest rose intensely and he continuously spat out several blood clots. Even though he had regained consciousness, his internal and external injuries were still extremely severe.
“No worries,” Princess Snow waved her snow white petite hand: “I won’t blame you, nor will I tell my royal father so you can just be at ease and stay here to recuperate your injuries. If you were to persist any more, you injuries will worsen. Also… Also, I like Little White a lot. She’s the most beautiful profound beast that I have ever seen. If you were to leave, Little White would have to leave with you… I really cannot bear it.”
“…” Yun Che finally understood why Princess Snow was unwilling to let him leave. She even promised not to tell her father about it. Half of the reason was due to her soft personality, and the other half was no doubt due to… the Snow Phoenix!
Princess Snow said previously that this was a place that only she and her father could enter. Now that she had promised not to tell her father, it would mean that this place was practically the safest place within the entire Divine Phoenix Empire. Furthermore, looking at Yun Che’s current situation, he was not suited to escape… Thinking about this, he instantly calmed down, calming his mind and blood. He sat down on the floor: “Then… Your Highness, pardon my intrusion…”
When he finished speaking, he closed his eyes and started to channel Great Way of the Buddha, using the vital energy of heaven and earth to help recuperate his body… The passive recovery of the Great Way of the Buddha could not compare to when he actively channeled it. Once his regained consciousness, the speed at which he recovered was largely increased.
Seeing Yun Che willing to stay made Princess Snow heave a small sigh of relief. She carefully looked at Yun Che for a while before hopping over beside the Snow Phoenix and pouncing on it. Her whole body was on its body as she happily said: “That’s great, Little White. We can play together now. Wahh~~~ Your feathers are so soft, so cooling… Why are you so pretty…”
Although Yun Che kept his eyes closed while treating his injuries, he could still hear what was happening. The fairy like voice drifted into his ears along with the wind, causing his mind to waver… Such good looks, such a great voice, so pure and flawless… Was she really a human child? Or was she someone born from gathering all of the world’s most beautiful objects…
——————————————
Phoenix Perching Valley was surrounded by mountains on three sides and the remaining south side, was the three thousand meter Absolute Phoenix Cliff. This place seemed to gather all the spiritual energy from the whole of Divine Phoenix Mountain and at one glance, it was all a pure clean green unlike other places which were dried and wilted crimson. Even the wind seem exceptionally clean and gentle. In the middle of Phoenix Perching Valley was a calm and clear lake. Beside the lake was a completely snow white and strikingly beautiful Snow Phoenix drinking from the clear lake water. Beside it was a girl that seemed as though she was a fairy from a painting.
The girl wore an elegant phoenix robe, but it was overshadowed by her glistening jadelike skin. Her back view, side view were all like a fairy from dream. Without even looking at her face and just by her back view, one could tell that her beauty was one only deities possessed.
The young girl breathed in the clean lake air for a while, and then let out a melodious laughter. She raised her jade fingers and gently released her hair tie, letting her shimmering long black hair scatter like a broken dam. Each strand of hair seemed as though it had its own life and danced in the air before falling onto her shoulder.
As her jade hand lowered, the straps on her robe were gently released as well. The golden colored phoenix robe embroidered with a golden phoenix gently slid off her shoulders… Without the clothes, she was so perfect that it was hypnotizing. Her soul shocking jade body was exposed within the accompaniment of the gentle mountain breeze, along with her flawlessly snow white back, her thin waist, and her slender and flawless legs… and all of these could only generate the word “perfection” in anyone’s mind. This view of just her back, was able to make a man lose control and go crazy.
She removed her golden shoes and revealed her snow lotus-like feet. She waved at the Snow Phoenix, and gently stepped into the lake with a flawless smile. Even without her jade feet in the pool water, they were already mesmerizingly glistening.
“Little White, do you want to bathe together? This is where where I bathe everyday.”
The entire Divine Phoenix Mountain Region was scorching hot except for this place, which was quiet and clear. Even the lake water was slightly cool. The young girl scooped up lake water, allowing it to flow from between her fingers. The edge of her lips twitched slightly as she silently looked at the water flowing from her jade arms to the snow humps in front of her chest.
The lake water was extremely clear, so clear that the smallest grains of sand underwater could be seen. Her beautiful figure was even more distinct, but unfortunately, no one was there to appreciate this great scenery. With her, was only a beautiful profound beast whose greatest interest was drinking in the sweet lake water.
“Little White, do you really not want to bathe together… Ugh, why do you already have an owner… I really like you… Because I like the color white, which is also the color of snow… When I was thirteen, Divine Phoenix City had a huge snowfall and that was the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. I felt that all of me was fused with the white snow… However, after that day, I have never seen snow again…”
The young girl supported her beautiful face with her hand as she looked at the Snow Phoenix. Within her beautiful eyes was a blurred light. As she muttered to herself, her jade shoulders were exposed on the water’s surface, its outline was pure beauty personified, the scene was extremely attractive.
“Ahhh…” The young girl suddenly shouted as she turned towards the south and gently said: “Little White, I think your owner has already woken up. Let’s go find him.”
She lightly flew out and put on the elegant phoenix robe back onto her mesmerizing jade body. She landed on the broad back of the Snow Phoenix as she shouted happily: “Let’s go.”
The Snow Phoenix cried happily as it stretched its wings and flew in Yun Che’s direction.
This time that Yun Che went into meditation, was another two whole days. By the time he regained consciousness, his internal and external injuries had already recovered by about thirty percent, his profound strength had also recovered by about twenty to thirty percent. In less than a week, he should more or less be completely healed as long as he does not engage against anyone in the meantime. Otherwise, his injuries would no doubt become worse… As such, this place, where he was never interrupted, was the best place to stay.
The prerequisite for him being here was to not let anyone know he was here, and this decision laid with Princess Snow, who thought that he was a Phoenix disciple.
A white figure flashed past the sky and circled above his head before slowly landing in front of him. Princess Snow jumped down from the back of the Snow Phoenix and looked at him with a blossoming smile: “You’re finally awake. Otherwise, Little White would be worried to death. Do you feel that your injuries are better?”
The girl’s smile was simply too mesmerizing. Yun Che lost concentration for a moment before frantically saying: “I’ve recovered a lot. I thank Princess Snow for her concern. Look.”
As he spoke, he stretched out his limbs which were already able to move freely.
“Wah! You actually recovered so quickly. I still thought you would take a long long time.” As she said this, she took a look at the Snow Phoenix, and her tone suddenly turned rather sheepish: “However, your injuries have not completely recovered. You shouldn’t move around too much. Stay here for more days, I won’t let royal father know.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.” Yun Che smiled. He now knew that the reason Princess Snow was willing to let him stay was because she really liked the Snow Phoenix. The Snow Phoenix was a pure white elegant beast. Furthermore, it was an ice type, which was rarely seen in Divine Phoenix Empire. Within the fire elemental Divine Phoenix City, it could be said to be extinct. Therefore, it would make her curious and envious. Or perhaps, it was because she was too lonely and its arrival meant that she now had a companion to play with.
Having not eaten for days with a body full of injuries, waves of hunger pangs attacked Yun Che as he sat down. He took out his dragon meat and cooked it using his phoenix fire. Despite the huge body that the Flame Dragon possessed, there was not much meat left due to Yun Che replacing it for his meals. At the moment, up to ninety nine percent of the meat had already been eaten by him. Within his Sky Poison Pearl, there was only a pathetic twenty five kilograms left. However, during this process, his skills at barbecuing the dragon meat increased by folds. Using what degree of fire, for how long, and using what seasonings to cook the most savoring of meat was now easy for him.
Chapter 418 - Snow Dance (2)
Dragon flesh was originally the world’s most delicious meat. This, added with his expert roasting technique, still made Yun Che, who had almost eaten all of the Flame Dragon’s flesh, secretly gulp.
“Waah… Smells good! Something smells good!”
The fragrant aroma of the dragon meat lured over Princess Snow, who had always been playing with the Snow Phoenix. She stood there, staring unblinkingly at the skewered dragon meat in Yun Che’s hands. Once she came closer, the intensity of the scent assaulted her nose, causing her to unconsciously gulp a few times.
“What is it? It smells so good… This is the first time I’ve smelled something this good.”
Princess Snow was Divine Phoenix Sect’s most precious pearl, the environment she grew up in was one an ordinary girl could never imagine. Accompanying her everyday was the most extravagant of meals. He never knew that the dragon meat he roasted due to his hunger would lure her over, and even made her secretly gulp cutely a few times. Yun Che’s heart throbbed uncontrollably. He stopped burning his phoenix flame, and lifted up the already roasted dragon meat: “This is dragon meat, has Your Highness never eaten it before?”
“Dragon meat? I think I ate it before.” Princess Snow was a bit uncertain: “But, I’ve never smelled such fragrant dragon meat… Can, can you let me have a bit of it? I really want to know how such a fragrant meat tastes.”
Even though she was currently talking with Yun Che, her clear eyes continuously stared at the dragon meat in his hands. That hungry expression caused Yun Che to have an urge to pounce over to kiss her. At the same time, he was a bit sad… In her eyes, it’s fine if I, the number one beautiful man in all of Blue Wind Nation, oh no, all of Profound Sky Continent cannot compare to the Snow Phoenix, but it seems like I can’t even compare to roasted meat…
Toward her hopeful, longing expression, even if Yun Che’s heart was ten times more firm, he still wouldn’t have the power to refuse. He handed over the already roasted dragon meat to Princess Snow, and said magnanimously: “Of course. If Your Highness likes it, you can eat all of these, I still have quite a lot leftover.”
“Really… Thank you.”
Princess Snow happily extended her white arm. Then, when she was a few seconds away from the dragon meat, she withdrew her hands back, and asked embarrassedly: “Can you… throw it over to me?”
“…Why?”
“Because royal father said this before, no one is allowed to touch my body, especially men. I can’t not listen to royal father’s words, so… so…”
Yun Che was slightly stunned… Hua Minghai said that during the time before and after Princess Snow turned thirteen, she had never appeared anywhere. This meant that Divine Phoenix Sect was extremely protective of Princess Snow. But he’d never expected that no one was allowed to even touch her body… The protectiveness Divine Phoenix Sect had for her was simply at an incomprehensible extent.
Then, him intruding into Princess Snow’s territory, talking to her at such a close range, being in contact with her for so many days… If Divine Phoenix Sect were to know of this…
Yun Che immediately realized that he had touched upon Divine Phoenix Sect’s huge… it’s greatest taboo yet, one that was several times more taboo than him possessing the Phoenix bloodline!
…………
…………
Since he had already committed such a huge taboo… Then, committing it a little longer is fine! Besides… his grievances with Divine Phoenix Sect was getting progressively harder to dispel!
Yun Che smiled. Without saying anything, he pushed out with his palm, and the dradon meat slowly floated toward Princess Snow. Princess Snow stretched out a hand to take it while shooting Yun Che a light smile: “Then I’m going to eat it.”
As her sweet voice fell, she gently sniffed it, then slightly opened her lips and bit into it with her pearly teeth. The deliciousness instantly made her eyes glow: “Waah~~ So good… too good! So there’s actually such tasty meat in this world…”
The first swallow made the girl react exaggeratedly. She began to take consecutive bites. Her eyes blurred with intoxication as she became completely absorbed in the deliciousness that she had never tasted before. Even though she ate quite impatiently, her table manners were still pleasing, each and every small bite was graceful. As he watched her not wolfing down the food, Yun Che’s gaze gradually became dumbstruck, even his stomach’s hunger was forgotten. On this girl, no matter where on her body, and no matter what she did, she possessed a dazzling, irresistible charm that no one was able to resist.
More than a large half of the dragon meat had quickly been eaten. At this time, the young girl suddenly thought of something. She looked at the remaining dragon meat, then jogged over to the Snow Phoenix: “Little White, I’ll give you something really yummy to eat, this is the best thing I’ve ever eaten, you know!”
Yun Che: “！#￥%……”
Princess Snow placed the dragon meat near the Snow Phoenix’s beak, yet the Snow Phoenix faced up, expressing its refusal. Yun Che walked over and said with a smile: “The Snow Phoenix Beast was born from an extremely cold place and only eats ice, snow, or rain. It doesn’t like eating meat.”
“Oh, so it’s like that.” Princess Snow took back the dragon meat, tilted her head, and then asked quite earnestly: “Snow Phoenix Beast? This name is even weirder sounding than Little Chan. Little White still sounds the best, right, Little White?”
“Then I’ll eat the rest all by myself!”
The young girl sat , leaning against the Snow Phoenix’s soft body and slowly enjoyed the delicacy in her hand. With each bite, an incomparably beautiful smile blossomed on her snowy face. Seeing her like this, Yun Che was once more dazzled. He couldn’t help but uncontrollably blurt out: “If you like it, I can roast it for you every day.”
The young girl blinked her beautiful eyes, then began to laugh happily. Her brows bent into two crescent moons as her eyelashes softly fluttered like butterflies: “Hehe, you’re so nice. I just knew that someone who’s able to become Little White’s owner must be a really good person.”
“…Your Highness, why do you like Little Chan so much?” Yun Che asked.
Without even bothering to think, Princess Snow smiled sweetly in reply: “Because Little White is so beautiful. The most beautiful profound beast I’ve ever seen. Look, Little White’s entire body of white is the same color as my favorite snow.”
“You like… snow?”
“Mn!” After the word “snow” was brought up, Princess Snow lowered the delicious food in her hands. Lifting up her face that was even more fair than snow, she said somewhat absent-mindedly: “I’ve only heard of ‘snow’ from my royal brothers, but I’ve never seen it before. Snow had also never fell upon Divine Phoenix City before, but when I was thirteen years old, a huge snow storm suddenly fell upon Divine Phoenix City… That was when I finally realized how beautiful snow was. The sky fluttered with white snowflakes, making me feel like I was in another world, and when snowflakes landed on my body, they were like beautiful fairies…”
“That day was the happiest day, most exciting day of my life, it was as though I had a beautiful dream. But very quickly, the snow melted. After that, I’ve always longed for snow, but have never seen it ever again. Royal father said that only the north of Divine Phoenix Empire has winter, where people can see snow. But royal father has told me many times that before I turn twenty, I’m not allowed to leave Divine Phoenix Sect… I really don’t know when I can see snow again.”
The young girl sat in a daze, her longing and thirst were distinctively printed in her eyes and expression. Yun Che didn’t know why she would like snow that much, perhaps, only the purest of snow could stir her pure spirit.
“Your Highness, please close your eyes.” Yun Che stood up, and suddenly said mysteriously.
“Ah? Why do I have to close my eyes?” Princess Snow looked at Yun Che in puzzlement.
Yun Che stretched out a hand, with the hollow of his palm facing upwards: “Your Highness doesn’t need to ask. When you open your eyes, you’ll understand.”
“Mn, okay.” Princess Snow apparently thought it was something fun as she closed her eyes with a smile.
Yun Che raised his head, then activated Frozen Cloud Arts… Even though he still had severe injuries on his person, his profound strength had recovered to about thirty percent, he still had enough energy to use Frozen Cloud Arts to make a little snow. Immediately after, a gust of cold wind rose as the surrounding water elements quickly assembled, fusing with the profound energy Yun Che released, transforming into snow that fluttered in the sky, and slowly fell down.
“Your Highness, you can open your eyes now.” Yun Che withdrew his hand and said softly before staring at her jade face, awaiting her reaction.
Princess Snow opened her eyes as a stretch of snowflakes also softly fluttered down on top of her nose. Then, even more snowflakes descended, brushing past her long hair, cheek, and hands… In that moment, Princess Snow went dumbstruck. Her lips opened and her expression grew misty as she stared blankly at everything, as though she had found herself inside a dream.
“It’s snow… snow!”
Princess Snow happily stood up, both her hands cupped the unceasingly falling snowflakes as she happily jumped about in the snow, as though she was a fairy that had found home. Her happiness even seemed to have infected the atmosphere as the breeze became even more gentle.
“It’s really snow… so cold, so beautiful.”
She happily exclaimed in excitement, each sound she made was like the sweetest music in the world. Immersed within the snowflakes and a thin layer of recently accumulated snow, she faced upwards as happiness blossomed on her smiling face, as if she had unrestrainedly released all her joy within the snow.
“Are you the one who made it snow? How did you do it?” Princess Snow tossed the snow cupped in her hands at her own face. She looked at Yun Che with an emotionally moved and thankfulness. But even more so, there was a kind of faint admiration in her gaze.
“Secret.” Yun Che smiled mysteriously. Seeing that she was this overjoyed, a sense of satisfaction rose in Yun Che’s heart.
“Thank you!” Princess Snow smiled in elation. Even though she was curious, she didn’t really want to know the answer that much because she was already submerged in happiness and contentment. She spread out both arms and lightly spun inside the flying snow. Then, she adorably yelled at Yun Che: “I’ll dance for you, okay?”
Without even waiting for Yun Che to response, or perhaps Yun Che had forgotten to reply, Princess Snow let out a heavenly laughter as she picked up the corner of her skirt. She tossed aside her small exquisite shoes and her flawless ankle and feet immediately appeared in Yun Che’s line of sight. The pair of delicate feet that were pure and translucent, snow white and tender, stepped onto the white snow that was unexpectedly less fair than her delicate skin. Each of her toes were like the world’s purest of pearls and jade, they were dainty, and glistened with the luster of gems.
Snowflakes still continued to float down. A small portion had also fallen onto Yun Che’s body. Inside the world of snowflakes, Princess Snow began to gracefully dance. The lower skirt portion of her beautiful phoenix robe fluttered with her elegant movements. Crystals of jade, one after another, let out an enchanting brilliance. Even the golden colored phoenix on her clothing seemed to be gracefully dancing… But, how could the dance of the phoenix even match Princess Snow’s beauty that made one breathless? Her delicate and tender body was like duckweed rippling on the surface of the water, like the willow branches swaying in the wind, and was so fantastical that it was like a dream… Even the dance of goddesses in the Heaven’s palace, perhaps wouldn’t be any greater than this.
Yun Che watched on dumbfoundedly, his gaze fixated without moving for a long time… Her laughter resounded beside his ears and inside his heart. The picture of her lithely dancing within the snow, every single moment was deeply imprinted inside his memories and soul.
He knew, that in his entire lifetime, he’ll never be able to forget this graceful dancing silhouette.
Chapter 419 - Changes in the Profound Ark
Unwittingly, the snowflakes had practically all floated down. The young girl also stopped dancing as she looked unbearingly at the quietly melting layer of snow beneath her feet. She looked at Yun Che, and said in a pitiful lovely voice: “My dancing, was it good?”
“Good…” Yun Che nodded with a hazy expression. He sounded as though he was sleep talking, his mind was still immersed within the dancing earlier.
Princess Snow had heard this sort of praise too many times in her life, but she still laughed happily: “Then… Make a little bit more snow, okay? I can continue dancing for you. When I watch the snowflakes fall, I can’t help but want to dance with them.”
“All right…” How could Yun Che possibly decline? She was like a celestial being, seeing her for even an instant would be an indescribable pleasure and luxury. It was a beautiful scene an ordinary person would never be able to see in their entire lifetime. He stretched out his hand toward the sky and condensed profound energy…
But as soon as Frozen Cloud Arts activated, a tearing pain immediately came from his chest. Yun Che groaned and quickly used his hand to press against his chest, forcibly swallowing the surging blood back down. However, his complexion was still deathly pale.
“Ah!!” Princess Snow exclaimed in surprise. Without even bothering to put her shoes back on, her delicate ice lotus-like feet left the layer of snow, stepping onto soft grass. She extended both hands, withdrew them once more, and then asked nervously: “Are… Are you all right? It’s all my fault, only focusing on letting myself see snow, and forgetting about your injuries… I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…”
The treasure of Divine Phoenix Empire was currently panickedly apologizing to him, an “ordinary disciple”. Her beautiful eyes trembled slightly, filled with worry and self-blame. A spot in the depths of Yun Che’s heart was touched, he did his best to smile: “Don’t worry, I’m okay. I just accidentally stirred my internal injuries, I’ll be better after a short rest.”
When he finished speaking, Yun Che had already carefully sat down. He closed his eyes, slowly calmed his breathing, and the uncomfortable sensation quickly disappeared.
Only after hearing Yun Che’s words and seeing his complexion gradually regain its color, did Princess Snow’s worry and self-blame quietly scatter. Then, without being completely reassured, she sat in front of him as her eyes stared at him unblinkingly. She also didn’t know why she wanted to have a proper look at this man, perhaps, it was because of some kind of hazy and mysterious feeling that came from him… This was the first time in her entire life that she had taken a meaningfully look at a single person.
When the stirred internal injuries were pacified, Yun Che opened his eyes, directly meeting with Princess Snow’s gaze. Being found out that she was peeping at him, Princess Snow blinked, and laughed sweetly, suddenly blossoming into a smiling expression that stirred Yun Che’s soul. He also laughed, and said regretfully: “Your Highness, this is my fault for being wounded. Not only can I not make it snow for you, I even made you worry… My injuries would be much better tomorrow, at that time, I’ll make it snow a lot for you.”
“Okay!” Princess Snow readily agreed, then slightly tilted her head: “But, can you not call me Your Highness? It feels kind of awkward.”
“Then… What should I call Your Highness?”
“My name is Feng Xue’er, you can call me Xuexue, or you can call me Xue’er. I really like those two names, ‘Your Highness’ doesn’t sound good at all.” Princess Snow said with a laugh.
If a Divine Phoenix Sect member swapped places with him, they would instantly be terrified. But Yun Che naturally did not care as he smiled: “Alright, then from now on, I’ll call you… Xue’er.”
“Mn!” Princess Snow smiled lightly as she nodded, her star-like pupils gazed at his face: “Then can I call you… Big brother Lingyun?”
“Of course you can… but I’ll like it even more if Xue’er calls me Big brother Yun. Because I feel like it’s even more intimate than “Big brother Lingyun.” Yun Che smiled… Even though they were missing one word, “Big brother Lingyun” and Big brother Yun” were two completely different concepts. Because the former… totally benefited that Ling Yun guy!
“Mn!” Princess Snow nodded in elation: “Big brother Yun… Big brother Yun… Big brother Yun… heh!”
Princess Snow called out three times in a row. That extremely sweet voice made all the bones in Yun Che’s body go soft.
————————————————
Divine Phoenix Imperial Palace, Phoenix Main Hall.
“This son and subject greets royal father.” Feng Ximing said deferentially as he stood in front of Feng Hengkong.
With the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament getting ever so closer, it was still only secondary. What was most important, was that the Primordial Profound Ark’s doorway was about to open. Even though no one had discovered the secrets of the Primordial Profound Ark in these several thousand years, there was no doubt that it contained a world-shaking treasure. Therefore, even after every failed attempt, the appearance of the Primordial Profound Ark was still be regarded as an enormous occasion for Divine Phoenix Sect. Everyone within the Divine Phoenix Sect believed that if they discovered the Primordial Profound Ark’s secret, and obtained its treasure, Divine Phoenix Sect’s strength would be on an equal footing with the Four Great Sacred Grounds in the true meaning… even surpassing them was a possibility.
When Feng Ximing arrived, he didn’t even lift his head, as he faintly said: “What is it.”
Feng Ximing’s head was slightly bent, his posture humble: “Reporting to royal father, we’ve just recently received news from Spirit Earth Hall, a change has occurred on the profound seal on the ark door of the Primordial Profound Ark this morning. According to our past written accounts, this kind of change signifies that the ark door will open twelve days from now, a full four days earlier than we expected.” Preparing for the Primordial Profound Ark was the reason why Feng Hengkong had very rarely appeared in public during this time frame.
Feng Hengkong raised his head, his face heavy: “Four days earlier?”
Feng Ximing nodded: “Yes. We have originally set the day after the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament as the profound ark’s opening, but now, the profound ark’s door is four days ahead of schedule, conflicting with the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. And even if we shift the ranking tournament to an earlier date now, we still won’t have enough time. Thus, in regards to how we’ll handle this matter, I ask royal father for judgment.”
Feng Hengkong stood up as his brows slowly pinched. The Primordial Profound Ark’s doorway would only open for twenty four hours, every minute and second was incomparably precious, and it definitely could not be wasted. However, when he sent the invitation letters to the six nations previously, he explicitly indicated that the top three of the ranking tournament would be entitled to board the Primordial Profound Ark. If the competition was unfinished, how could the top three even board the Primordial Profound Ark when they didn’t even exist? As for shifting the date of the ranking tournament to an earlier time, that was even more inappropriate.
Feng Hengkong muttered, his voice low and dignified: “The ranking tournament’s original schedule is for a time frame of five days. The Primordial Profound Ark’s matter cannot be delayed, and the competition also cannot be shifted ahead of time. Since the opening of the Primordial Profound Ark’s has been shifted four days ahead of time, then we can only compress the ranking tournament to last one day!”
“One day? This…” Feng Ximing’s face revealed shock. This was unprecedented in all of the history of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. Making the battle between seven nations last only one day, was indeed too tight, or perhaps it should be said that it was fundamentally impossible to accomplish.
“This is the only way. As to how to arrange that, the decision is yours.” Feng Hengkong’s gaze concentrated: “There must be no mishap in the exploration of the Primordial Profound Ark, and the ranking tournament matter is related to our Divine Phoenix Sect’s prestige, it also must not have any errors. Deciding how to set that up will depend on your ability, this can also be considered a test for you. Any questions?”
Even though Feng Ximing was nervous, he still obviously did not have the courage to refuse as he promptly lowered his head: “Yes, this son will properly handle this according to royal father’s wishes and will not disappoint royal father.”
“Mn.” Feng Hengkong nodded: “Since that’s the case, if you have no other matters, you may withdraw. Remember to inform every Great Elder and Pavilion Master about this, so they can make preparations earlier.”
“Yes… This son also has another matter to speak about, royal father. This matter is not big nor small, but this son and subject still thinks that it’s best if he tells royal father.”
“Speak.”
Feng Ximing said cautiously: “A few days ago, huge sounds of activity suddenly came from Phoenix Mountain Range. When we came over, we discovered Thirteenth Brother’s personal bodyguard Feng Chihuo there, and he died extremely miserably. The area around him had also been widely destroyed, evident of him going through a desperate battle.”
With regards to Feng Chihuo’s matter, Feng Hengkong was naturally aware of it, but he clearly didn’t put it to heart as he said indifferently: “Only our sect members can enter Phoenix Mountain Range. Since he died there, then he had been killed by someone in our sect. We’ll instantly know once we investigate it.”
“Royal father speaks thusly. After some investigation, Feng Chihuo was pursuing someone who charged out of the southern gate in the early morning of that day. Going by what the city guards have stated, the sky had not brightened yet, so they did not get a good look at the person’s face. They only vaguely distinguished that the person had not reached thirty yet, and…”
“No need to say anymore!” Feng Hengkong impatiently swung a hand: “We don’t have the time to pay attention to such small matters. Since Feng Chihuo was murdered by someone within the sect, then it means that he’s unskilled. Are you saying that we have to personally investigate who murdered that good-for-nothing trash?”
“Royal father, quell your anger… Feng Chihuo’s tragic death is but a small matter, but… but…” Feng Ximing sucked in a breath, as a distinct nervousness appeared on his face: “The place where Feng Chihuo died is not even five kilometers away from Absolute Phoenix Cliff, and the place just to the side of Absolute Phoenix Cliff is Phoenix Perching Valley, where Xue’er is. Royal father has ordered guards to defend twenty five kilometers east, west, and north of Phoenix Perching Valley, yet no one is guarding the south side. This son and subject is worried that Xue’er might be disturbed, and perhaps that person might dare to intrude Phoenix Perching Valley…”
Before he had even finished talking, his entire body suddenly felt a chill, and he didn’t continue his sentence. Feng Hengkong’s eyes narrowed as his glowering eyes released a thick, ice-cold raidance.
“So… are you saying that you want to go over to Phoenix Perching Valley to see if Xue’er is safe?”
“No, this son absolutely did not have that intention, it’s just… it’s just that this son is afraid someone might disturb Xue’er.” Feng Ximing said in terror. He had long anticipated that Feng Hengkong would react this way, but he still couldn’t help but say it… Feng Hengkong was currently just too busy at this time, so perhaps he really might allow him to go over there to have a look… Even if it was a one in a millionth chance, letting him have a look at Xue’er was enough. However, it was evident that this was still an extravagant hope. Feng Xue’er was Feng Hengkong’s biggest landmine… a landmine that absolutely could not be touched.
“Hmph! Absolute Phoenix Cliff is not the only thing south of Phoenix Perching Valley, there’s also the Great Phoenix Formation. Aside from my sect members, no one is able to enter. In our Divine Phoenix Sect, there’s still no one with enough guts to dare charge in Phoenix Perching Valley!! Xue’er can also immediately sound transmit to us as well. If she really has been disturbed, she would certainly notify us immediately. No need for you to worry… Scram!”
“Royal father, calm your anger, this… this son was worrying too much. This son and subject shall take his leave.”
Feng Ximing withdrew in a panic… Once he exited Phoenix Main Hall, he turned around with firmly clenched teeth as a cold, resentful light flashed through his eyes.
Chapter 420 - Promise
A scene of fluttering snow had shrunk down the distance between Yun Che and Feng Xue’er by an extremely great extent. Feng Xue’er’s mood had also become extraordinarily cheerful; because to her, the fluttering snow as far as one’s eye could see, had always been the most beautiful dream she had yearned for.
“Big Brother Yun, the snow you made, is a type of water attribute profound art, right?” Feng Xue’er cupped her charming cheeks with her hands, looking at him with a glimmering gaze. This pure and untainted sprite, all of her feelings were displayed on her snow-like face without any hesitation. At the same time she spoke these words, she also expressed her curiosity and yearning for this kind of profound art.
“Mhm, it’s called ‘Frozen Cloud Arts’. To be precise, it’s a type of ice attribute profound art.” Yun Che answered without concealment, because he believed that Feng Xue’er definitely had never heard of this profound art’s name before. But he still casually added on: “Xue’er, have you ever heard of this profound art?”
“No.” Feng Xue’er lightly shook her small head, and asked curiously: “But, why would you know ice attribute profound arts? Our Phoenix bloodline can burn the most ferocious phoenix flames, but wouldn’t the power of fire attribute and ice attribute profound art conflict with each other? I had never heard of anyone in the sect that actually practiced water attribute profound arts. Royal father seemed to have said that there isn’t even anyone in the entire Divine Phoenix City.”
Water and fire suppressed one another, and could not have common grounds. Even if one cultivates them, when one type of profound energy is used, the other type must be suppressed to the utmost, otherwise, the two types of profound energy would cancel out by themselves, or even become chaotic. This was the most fundamental common sense of the profound way. Thus, practicing profound arts opposite of one’s own attribute, other than wasting energy and fruitlessly increasing the risk that one might stir up just by mere carelessness, it could be said to be completely useless. Divine Phoenix Empire’s fire elements were extraordinarily lively, and was an extremely fitting place to practice fire attribute profound arts. The profound practitioners there all basically practiced fire attribute profound arts as well. Other than occasional foreigners, profound practitioners who practice water profound arts simply couldn’t be found at all. Even foreigners, because of the fire element’s activeness, their bodies and profound veins would feel discomfort of various degrees if water attribute profound arts were the only thing they practiced.
So, Feng Xue’er naturally had such a question.
Yun Che said calmly: “Xue’er, did you know that our Divine Phoenix Sect’s force isn’t merely limited to Divine Phoenix Empire? There are many clansmen who are sent to other nations since childhood, then conceal their phoenix bloodline and join the relatively powerful and prestigious local sect or force, thereby obtaining information and intel, making up our sect’s information network.”
Feng Xue’er’s charming lips slightly opened, then, she lightly nodded: “Mn, this I know. Father has told me about this before… Big Brother Yun, are you someone who was sent to the outside since childhood?”
Feng Xue’er naturally wouldn’t doubt Yun Che’s words. Because constructing information networks, was one of the things that every single powerful sect had to do, and information networks, were even one of the lifelines of a sect. Heavenly Sword Villa, Xiao Sect, and even Blue Wind Profound Palace all had disciples planted into other great sects, not to mention the colossal Divine Phoenix Sect.
“Yes, the place I was sent to, is called Blue Wind Nation, and I’ve only returned to the sect this year.” Yun Che nodded. He answered with extreme calmness without any undulation; it was almost impossible for even a person who was extremely experienced to notice the traces of a lie within his gaze and expression. But when these words left his mouth, his heart and soul was violently clutched and pulled.
In these years of two lifetimes, in order to achieve a certain purpose, or for survival, he had spoken concealing and misguiding words countless times, and had been long trained to the point that his heart wouldn’t change it’s rhythm and the expression on his face wouldn’t alter in the slightest. But this time, the person he was facing was a girl who was more pure than even the snow itself, and had moreover saved his life… Such a lie, was only for concealing and achieving his purpose, and absolutely didn’t have any intention to harm her; yet the sense of guilt and sin in his heart was record-breakingly intense.
“Blue Wind Nation…” Feng Xue’er knew this country, and also knew that it was the smallest nation of the continent. Her charming eyes blinked once, as she continued asking: “Then is Big Brother Yun’s Frozen Cloud Arts, learnt from there? Since there are ice attribute profound arts, then would there be a lot of snow?”
“Mhm.” Yun che nodded: “That is a place called the Snow Region of Extreme Ice. The entire five hundred kilometers over there, are all white snow.”
“Five hundred kilometers… White snow?” Feng Xue’er’s cherry lips opened up in surprise. She couldn’t imagine just what kind of marvelous scenery that would be.
“An entire five hundred kilometers, all covered by snow, moreover, very very thick snow. Even if one shatters a dozen feet of the snow layer, what’s beneath is still snow.” Yun Che said while smiling. He believed that the Snow Region of Extreme Ice must be a heaven-like place for Feng Xue’er who likes snow. He narrated earnestly: “Because that place is very cold, the ice and snow over there wouldn’t even melt in tens of milleniums… Look, all these surrounding mountains are all soil and stone, but at the Snow Region of Extreme Ice, even the ridges and peaks are covered by layers of snow and ice. The sky at where we are is blue, but over there, even the sky is projected to a pure white by the reflections of the endless snow. In that entire world, there is only a stretch of white without bounds. The sky and earth can’t be distinguished, it’s so pure and quiet that one could hear the sound of their own heartbeat.”
“Wah…” Fen Xue’er’s hands had unwittingly covered her lips, her gaze as misty as fog: “Is there… really such a place… Snow Region of Extreme Ice… Snow Region of Extreme Ice…”
“Not only that, even though it’s all snow, there are also many flower and plants. And the flowers there, are all ice flowers similar to crystals, and even the grass and trees are sparkling with the glimmer of ice. There are also very beautiful ice corals, and natural ice sculptures of various shapes. These, are all unable to be seen at other places. Because once these things leave the Snow Region of Extreme Ice, they would all very quickly melt. Also…” Yun Che pointed toward the Snow Phoenix: “Little Chan was also nurtured up at the Snow Region of Extreme Ice, so its feather is just like the white snow. In the entire Profound Sky Continent, Snow Phoenix Beasts only exist there. To have left that place with me, Little Chan has worked hard.”
Snow Phoenix Beast uttered a light cry.
Feng Xue’er’s entire person became stupefied there. She felt as if she had fallen into an illusory world that hadn’t ever appeared even in her dreams. The beauty of that place, surpassed the most beautiful heaven she had fantasized about… Even with all of her knowledge, she couldn’t draw how just how beautiful of a picture scroll that would be… Endless spanning snow, snow-white mountains, snow-white skies, sparkling and translucent trees and flowers, as flocks of birds as pretty as Little White fluttered and danced in the sky…
“Snow Region of Extreme Ice… Snow Region of Extreme Ice…” She muttered this name as if deliriously raving, feeling as though her heart and spirit had already melted.
“Does Xue’er want to go there?” Yun Che asked a question that he could completely be sure of the answer just by the look of her expression.
“Mhm!” Feng Xue’er very strongly nodded, her white and glossy cheeks were adorned with a bit of excited blush: “So in this world, there’s actually such a beautiful place. I really want to go, if I can arrived at that kind of world, and live over there… Wah~~ How blissful would that be.”
“But…” The light in Feng Xue’er’s eyes grew somewhat dim again: “Royal father has said that before I turn twenty, I can’t leave Divine Phoenix City. Royal father is always so busy too, and also haven’t left Divine Phoenix Sect in many many years. Even after I’m twenty, Royal father probably wouldn’t have the time to take me there…”
“Then I’ll take you there.” Yun Che didn’t even think, and uncontrollably blurted out.
“Ah…” Feng Xue’er let out a light cry, and at the same time revealed a deep surprise that made Yun Che feel unexpected: “Really? You’re really willing to take me there?”
Toward his words, she believed them so firmly without any doubts, and was so unguarded against him; instead, due to the snow he made, a scene he described, hints and threads of a young girl’s reverence was arisen toward him. A surge of complication emerged in Yun Che’s heart, yet there was also the feeling of warmth. He nodded with strength: “Of course I’m willing. If you are still willing to recognize this “Big Brother Yun” when you are able to leave the Divine Phoenix City, as long as you want to, I’ll definitely bring you to the Snow Region of Extreme Ice. I came to Divine Phoenix Empire from over there, and I very clearly know how to return. If we set off from the Divine Phoenix City, we’d arrive in half a month if we hurry.
“Hooray!” The girl uttered in high spirits. All of the slight disappointments from before vanished like smoke in thin air. Looking at Yun Che, she joyfully smiled like a most exquisite and beautiful doll: “Big Brother Yun, thank you, you are so nice… To be able to meet you, I am really very happy.”
“To be able to view snow with such a beautiful girl like Xue’er, I am the one that’s the luckiest.” Yun Che said heartfeltly. However, he didn’t know whether or not there would be a day that this promise could be realized… If, she was still willing at that time, then no matter the hinderance, he’d still use all his power to realize it… Perhaps it was to make up for the guilt in his heart, or perhaps, he wished to stand by her, shoulder to shoulder, in the depth of his heart.
“Heh, then it’s a deal. After I’m twenty, Big Brother Yun will take me to Snow Region of Extreme Ice to see the endless fluttering snow… You definitely can’t lie and take your word back, okay.” Feng Xue’er said with a happy smile.
“Mn!” Yun Che nodded, and extended his pinky toward Feng Xue’er: “Let’s pinky swear.”
“Ah?” Feng Xue’er looked at the pinky Yun Che reached out, then looked at her own finger, as a puzzling expression revealed on her face: “Pinky swear… what does that mean?”
Yun Che lightly shook his finger, and said: “It lets us buckle our pinky together in order to prove that the words we speak will definitely be kept. No matter how many years pass, they will never change.”
“Uu…” Feng Xue’er timidly extended her finger as lustrous as the fine jade, and said in a low voice: “As long as Big Brother Yun doesn’t forget, I’ll definitely keep my promise, but… but…”
But, her body, even if it was the pinky, had never made contact with men before. Because in Feng Hengkong’s eyes, every single inch of her skin was the most precious treasure of the Divine Phoenix Sect. Anyone’s touch, would all be an unforgivable tarnish. Even he, the father, couldn’t touch either. In fact, if he were to choose between Divine Phoenix Sect and Feng Xue’er, he would unhesitatingly choose Feng Xue’er.
And the reason within this, was not merely that type of a father’s radical love and protection toward his sole daughter; the even more important reason was only known by a few within the Divine Phoenix Empire… Other than Divine Phoenix Empire, even the Four Great Sacred Grounds had gotten information from who knew where, and also noticed Feng Xue’er a long time ago. This also made Feng Hengkong’s protection toward Feng Xue’er prudent to the point that made one unable to comprehend.
If he was to know that a man would actually sit so close to Feng Xue’er, and even engage in sweet talk… and even wanted to pinky swear with her, let alone that this person being the “bastard” he wanted to get rid of from the start, even if it was his own son, he’d unhesitatingly smash him into mincemeat with a palm under a flight of rage.
“Oh, I understand now.” Yun Che seemed to only have realized just now: “Your royal father doesn’t allow anyone to touch you, and you are afraid of your royal father’s scolding, right?”
“Mn…” Feng Xue’er lightly nodded: “I can’t disobey royal father’s words. I’m more afraid… that after royal father knows, he’ll be angry at you. Just last year, Twelfth Brother accidentally touched my shoulder, and was discovered by royal father. Royal father got so angry, and directly broke Twelfth Brother’s wrist, and even said that he’ll cripple him… I begged for mercy for Twelfth Brother, royal father usually complies with me a lot, but he really was very angry, and still confined Twelfth Brother for an entire half a year… It’s my fault that Twelfth Brother is harmed. I don’t want Big Brother Yun to be harmed because of me, too.”
Chapter 421 - Let Me Teach Big Brother Yun, Alright?
Just one touch on the shoulder… and even with phoenix robe in between… and it was even his son of flesh and blood… To actually break his wrist without any mercy, and confine him for half a year…
This Phoenix Emperor’s cherishment toward his daughter simply had reached an extent that shocked heaven and earth! In comparison, the things he did these few days were enough for him to be executed by a thousand cuts, eight hundred times over!
And growing up in this kind of extreme protection, not only Feng Xue’er’s heart, even her body was also pure to the extreme. And the purer the object, the easier it was to evoke the desire to taint and possess within the depth of men’s heart —— especially this kind of person like Yun Che, who never constrains himself.
Yun Che didn’t retract his pinky, and instead said smiling as he looked at her star-like eyes: “Xue’er, your royal father really cherishes you. Him not wanting for others to touch you, is because he’s worried that you will be harmed by others.”
“Mn, I know, royal father is the person who cares about me the most in this world.” Feng Xue’er said with a faint smile.
“However, if it’s someone you like and is intimate with, there naturally wouldn’t be any problems with physical contact, and can even make one another more intimate and fond of each other. Does Xue’er think that I am someone who would harm Xue’er, or someone who Xue’er is fond of?” Yun Che said with a pure and serious face.
Feng Xue’er unhesitatingly answered: “Big Brother Yun is so nice, of course I like Big Brother Yun. Being together with Big Brother Yun makes me really happy, Big Brother Yun has even realized the dream I had for many years.”
“Mhm.” Yun Che smiled, and extended his pinky before Feng Xue’er: “Then let us pinky swear.”
“Ah… but… but…” Feng Xue’er was still hesitating and timid.
“Relax, there’s only the two of us here, your royal father wouldn’t see, wouldn’t know, which means he wouldn’t get angry. Also, Xue’er is already sixteen this year. Sixteen, is an age where Xue’er has already grown up. Your royal father can’t protect you for a lifetime, so you need to start learning to be mature and independent. First of all, you need to make decisions while following the depths of your heart, using your own feelings and judgement, and not forever complying with words of other people.”
With the protection Feng Xue’er had received, naturally no one would have ever said these kind of words to her. Coming from Yun Che’s mouth, the impact brought about by these words to Feng Xue’er’s heart, that didn’t have a single speck of dust, could be well imagined. She had already gotten used to the way of life that had persisted for sixteen years. However, wanting to break through the world of self and restrainment from the past till present, was more so an innate instinct hidden within the depth of the human consciousness. Words that had never been heard before, made Feng Xue’er’s heart feel as if it had made contact with a whole different world, a world she had never experienced before. She listened to her heartbeat, and repeated Yun Che’s words once and once again in her mind… Follow her heart, make the decision she wanted to make…
Finally, with great effort, Feng Xue’er made a resolution that could be said as the greatest one ever from the time she was born. She imitated Yun Che’s actions, slowly extended her slender and fair pinky, and slowly touched toward Yun Che’s pinky… Her movements were very slow, nervous, at a loss, and helpless… along with a kind of faint anticipation…
Finally, her pinky made contact with Yun Che’s pinky on her own accord. Instantly, as if she had experienced an electric shock, she retracted her little hand back at once. But Yun Che did not give her such a chance, his finger quickly went forward, and fast yet gently buckled onto her pinky… Instantly, a tactile sensation soft and smooth to the point of unfathomable came, as though he had touched the most flawless and pure warm jade in the world.
“Ah…” Feng Xue’er let out a light cry, her entire body became stiff for a bit. Her pinky subconsciously wished to struggle free, yet was tightly buckled down by Yun Che. Amidst nervousness, her pinky tightly twined with Yun Che’s finger, her entire body more so didn’t move at all, as she didn’t even dare to open her eyes.
“Pinky swear, the words we spoke before will never be disavowed. After Xue’er is twenty, we’ll go together to Blue Wind Nation’s Snow Region of Extreme Ice to see the endless falling snow.” Yun Che lifted his wrist, pulled Feng Xue’er’s small hand, and said in dead earnest. Only, after his voice fell, he still didn’t loosen his finger. His voice, also drove away Feng Xue’er’s nervousness and helplessness to a great extent, and made her expression finally ease up somewhat.
Within the Sky Poison Pearl, Jasmine looked at Yun Che buckling Feng Xue’er’s pinky with cold eyes, her exquisite yet unnatural little face was full of scorn: “Hmph, he’s starting again. No matter where this damned fool goes, anytime he meets a somewhat pretty woman, he’ll immediately reveal his nature of a pervert and beast, and will never change!!”
“Xue’er, how do you feel right now? Do you feel sad, or find it difficult to accept it?” Seeing that even though Feng Xue’er became calm again, her eyes were still closed and unwilling to open, Yun Che asked while moving a little closer.
“Oh… it’s a very weird feeling.” Feng Xue’er’s eyelashes faintly trembled, as she answered softly.
“Weird?”
“It’s a kind of… indescribable feeling, but it’s not loathsome, nor is it sad… Uu… I never had felt this kind of weird feeling… Also my heart is suddenly beating so fast… Big Brother Yun, can you tell me what kind of feeling this is?”
“I can’t tell you this, rather that it need Xue’er herself to feel and understand.” Yun Che said with a faint smile. His expression at the moment, was exactly like a big bad wolf who was sneaking up on a little white rabbit. After a bit of hesitation, he suddenly grasped over her entire hand… Feng Xue’er’s hand was very small, and was completely grasped within his hands in one go, just like that.
“Ah…” Feng Xue’er uttered a faint cry, yet the reaction this time, wasn’t as acute as the time before. Even the struggling only happened in that one subconscious instant at the start.
“Then, how about this, what kind of feeling does Xue’er have?” Xue Che gently held Feng Xue’er’s tiny hand… There was a kind of softness and tenderness he couldn’t describe; just holding her hand in silence like that, he felt his entire body’s nervous system uncontrollably becoming lax, not willing to let go no matter what.
“Heartbeat… became faster…” Feng Xue’er lightly muttered: “So making contact with Big Brother Yun would actually be such a weird feeling… Big Brother Yun, can we stay like this a little longer… I really want to know what kind of feeling this is.”
This kind of request, how could Yun Che not agree; how he wished he could hold her hand forever.
With her eyes closed, Feng Xue’er sensed the feeling earnestly. After a while, she softly uttered: “I still don’t understand… I seemed to… have felt Big Brother Yun’s heart beat. Wah! Big Brother Yun’s Phoenix bloodline is so pure, even purer than that of my royal brothers… Eh?”
Feng Xue’er opened her eyes, and looked at Yun Che puzzled: “So weird, why hasn’t Big Brother Yun cultivated the 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 yet?”
Even though Yun Che possessed the 《World Ode of the Phoenix》’s fifth and sixth stage profound skills, these were only the profound skills carried on by these two stages. A profound skill’s activation required a profound art with corresponding power, while Yun Che jumped over this rule with the power of the Evil God’s seed and his own comprehensive ability, forcefully activating the Empyrean Dance of the Phoenix and Star Scorching Demon Lotus with the most basic of phoenix flames. But in terms of power, they naturally were much inferior to activating them with the genuine Phoenix profound art.
Therefore, just from the aspect of the World Ode of the Phoenix’s profound art, it could indeed be said that Yun Che hadn’t practiced it in the slightest. A person who cultivated World Ode of the Phoenix could tell just by casually probing his profound energy attribute.
Yun Che curbed his expression, and said: “Because in these earlier years, I had always been at Blue Wind Nation. For hiding my identity, not only does the Phoenix bloodline need to be concealed, I more so can’t cultivate the World Ode of the Phoenix. This year, I had just returned to the sect. Nineteenth Elder is busy every single day, and didn’t have the free time to teach me. And since I’ve been out for many years, there aren’t any fellow clansmen I’m very familiar with either, so naturally no one would be willing to teach me the World Ode of the Phoenix.”
“So that’s the case~, no wonder…” Feng Xue’er thought for a bit, then a glint suddenly flashed in her eyes, as her expression became excited: “Then does Big Brother Yun want to learn the World Ode of the Phoenix?”
“Of course I do.” Yun Che unhesitatingly nodded: “But…”
“Since you want to, then let me teach Big Brother Yun, alright?” Feng Xue’er said with a cheerily smiling expression, as if this was something that would make her very happy.
“You… teach me?” Yun Che’s heart and mind violently shook a bit.
When Feng Xue’er had mentioned “World Ode of the Phoenix”, the thought of making Feng Xue’er teach him World Ode of the Phoenix had flashed through his mind before, but was immediately extinguished by him. Because he had already deceived Feng Xue’er in regards to his identity, and he didn’t have the heart to scheme against her once more… even if the World Ode of the Phoenix was extremely important to him.
But he didn’t expect that Feng Xue’er would actually voluntarily propose to teach him World Ode of the Phoenix.
Yun Che’s mood instantly became incomparably complicated.
Seeing that Yun Che didn’t answer right away, his expression becoming hesitating and complicated, Feng Xue’er became somewhat anxious instead. She swayed Yun Che’s hands, and said as if she was acting spoiled: “Big Brother Yun, just agree to let me teach you, okay? Big Brother Yun lets me eat so many delicious things, and for beautiful snow, you’ve even agreed to take me to Snow Region of Extreme Ice… I haven’t been so happy in such a long time. I also really want to do something for Big Brother Yun. Even though I’ve never taught anyone before, I can definitely teach very very well… Big Brother Yun, just comply with me okay, okay?”
Yun Che looked at her, and said with a smile that was yet not a smile: “Xue’er, is it that you want me to stay here for a longer period of time, so you can play with Little Chan every single day?”
With a little than half of her intentions being easily exposed, Feng Xue’er began to smile shyly: “Not only Little White, I also really like Big Brother Yun right now, and want Big Brother Yun to accompany me for a while longer… Before, I’ve always been alone here, doing the same thing every day, it really is boring. But with Big Brother Yun and Little White here, I feel like I’m so happy that I’m about to go crazy. Just let me teach you World Ode of the Phoenix, Big Brother Yun can leave after he learns it, okay?
From Feng Xue’er’s perspective, teaching World Ode of the Phoenix to a Divine Phoenix Sect’s fellow clansman really wasn’t much, because it was a profound art that every single phoenix disciple knew how to use, and could be cultivated if one possessed the Phoenix bloodline. Ones who possessed the Phoenix bloodline, yet didn’t cultivate World Ode of the Phoenix was instead abnormal.
Seeing how Feng Xue’er was at the moment, if he were to refuse, she would instead feel at a loss. He originally didn’t have the intention to ‘steal’ World Ode of the Phoenix from Feng Xue’er, but…
“Okay.” Yun Che chose to gladly agree, and said half jokingly while half exclaiming to himself: “Letting Xue’er… Princess Snow to personally teach me World Ode of the Phoenix, it seems as though I’m dreaming.”
“Hehe!” Feng Xue’er cheerfully laughed: “This is the first thing I’m doing for Big Brother Yun, I’ll definitely take it very seriously. Then… how about we start right now?”
“…Okay.”
“Big Brother Yun is wounded right now, and just by chance can quietly comprehend the profound formula when recuperating. Then, I’ll teach Big Brother Yun the fundamental formula right now. Big Brother Yun needs to attentively comprehend it, okay?”
Amidst the soft voice, Feng Xue’er lifted her finger, and pointed at the center between Yun Che’s brows without touching him. A stroke of firelight faintly flickered… Instantly, World Ode of the Phoenix’s fundamental formula distinctively emerged within Yun Che’s sea of consciousness.
Chapter 422 - Complete Profound Formula
World Ode of the Phoenix’s fundamental formula flowed into Yun Che mind. What throbbed first was not Yun Che’s mind, but the Evil God’s fire seed. A flame also starting burning within Yun Che’s mind, gradually imprinting the drifting profound formula firmly into his soul.
The requisites to learning the World Ode of the Phoenix, required having the Phoenix bloodline. Even when possessing the Phoenix bloodline, it would still take a very long time to comprehend the fundamental formula of the World Ode of the Phoenix. This was because the World Ode of the Phoenix was essentially a profound art that belonged at the plane of gods, the flame laws it contained were far above that of ordinary profound flames. Even the weakest first to six stages required an immense difficulty for the user to perfectly comprehend, and was absolutely not something ordinary profound arts could compare to.
But towards Yun Che, this wasn’t at all a concern. That was because the existence of the Evil God’s fire seed allowed him to easily understand and comprehend laws of fire of any shape and form. With the Evil God’s fire seed, Yun Che’s current body was like an unpolished jade that could be sculpted at will. Even if it was this powerful World Ode of the Phoenix, the process of comprehension would be as simple as directly carving it into his body.
After reading the fundamental formula of the World Ode of the Phoenix once in his heart, Yun Che had already understood it clearly. Those profound formulas turmoiled in his soul, then suddenly combined together, creating a vast and boundless world… That was a dark sky of stars with countless heavenly bodies within, and in the next moment, scorching flames suddenly burned up, and entirely engulfed this colossal cosmos. In the sea of fire that could overturn the world, a loud and resonant phoenix cry suddenly sounded, as a golden colored phoenix spreaded out its wings, bathing in flames, born from the sea of fire..
A surge of scorching yet vast aura filled Yun Che’s mind to the brim, and also caused him to feel as if he had opened a gate to another world all of a sudden, as his body was also placed within a whole new world…
……………………
As the profound formula entered Yun Che’s body, he closed his eyes and became motionless. Princess Snow quietly sat in front of him, her beautiful eyes continuously watched Yun Che, in order to prevent unusual conditions such as soul damage and profound energy going into chaos during his comprehension mode. But as an hour passed, Yun Che was not only completely calm during this period, even his breathing had completely stabilized, and was steady to the point that it seemed as if he had fallen asleep.
Princess Snow showed a sign of relief, she once again looked at Yun Che for a while, and muttered to herself in a low voice: “It seems he has started to comprehend. There should be no problems if this was the case, but it should take a long time…”
“Little White, let’s go play!”
Feng Xue’er stood up, and just as she was about to go towards Little White’s side, a layer of mist-like flames suddenly flared up on Yun Che’s body.
Feng Xue’er stopped in her tracks and looked at Yun Che with a surprised expression. The spontaneously ignited misty layer of flames adhered onto Yun Che’s body, slowly flowed and shifted on the surface of his body, and gradually burned higher and higher. Right after, these flames again extinguished and an illusionary Phoenix’s image emerged behind Yun Che’s back. At the same time, the phoenix mark on Yun Che forehead appeared by itself, and released a dazzling golden light.
“Ah….”
Feng Xue’er uttered an astonished cry as she stared blankly at the phoenix mark on Yun Che forehead. That was a phoenix mark that anyone who carried the bloodline of the Phoenix would have. When igniting Phoenix flames, unless one deliberately conceals it, the phoenix mark will emerge by itself. Princess Snow still had her stupefied look, as she stared blankly at the golden phoenix mark on Yun Che’s forehead. The expression in her eyes was in unrest, as the emotions contained within her gaze suddenly became incomparably chaotic…
The Phoenix’s image lasted for a long time, before it finally slowly vanished, and the golden imprint on Yun Che’s forehead also faded along with it. Yun Che also opened his eyes at this time, and at the first glance, he saw Feng Xue’ers eyes that were filled with astonishment.
“Big Brother Yun, you actually… have already completely comprehended the fundamental formula, and thoroughly mastered the bloodline and World Ode of the Phoenix’s profound art?” Feng Xue’er stared her eyes wide, and said with a voice that carried a heavy tone of disbelief.
“That’s right.” Yun Che nodded: “Isn’t this very easy… Right, Xue’er, how long did it take me in total?”
“It only took… an hour.”
“An hour… is this considered very short?”
“Short to the point of unfathomable!” Feng Xue’er’s emotions turmoiled: “The fundamental formula is the foundation of World Ode of the Phoenix’s cultivation, only after thoroughly comprehending it, would one be able to harmonize their bloodline and profound art; it’s also the most most important, and the most most difficult step. Even under the help and guidance of the senior generation, and even if one’s comprehension ability is very great, it’ll still need to at least take over a year, and some would need several years… But Big Brother Yun, you only used… an hour!”
“Uh…” With the Evil God’s fire seed, no matter how difficult the fire attribute profound art, it was all just like the lift of a hand for him. Only after hearing Xue’er saying it like this, did he suddenly realize that mastering the fundamental formula just like that, was indeed a somewhat exaggerated speed. Just as he was pondering how he should explain, he then saw Feng Xue’er’s charming face already blooming with utmost reverence: “Wah! Big Brother Yun, you’re too amazing. You’re the most most most… most terrific genius that Xue’er has ever seen! Back then royal father had praised me for comprehending the fastest, but compared to Big Brother Yun, I’m way way inferior.”
“Um…” Yun Che somewhat embarrassedly pressed his forehead: “How could I be as amazing as Xue’er said? It’s clearly Xue’er who has taught me well, which is why I could comprehend it so fast.”
“Heh! Big Brother Yun only knows how to coax me. I only had given the profound formula to Big Brother Yun, and didn’t give any other help and guidance, and more so didn’t use profound energy to as a guide. As if it’s got anything to do with me at all, it’s Big Brother Yun himself who’s amazing.” Feng Xue’er said with a broad smile.
“No no, of course that isn’t the case.” Yun Che said with a serious face: “Xue’er is good looking, of noble status, with a kind nature. To be able to be taught the World Ode of the Phoenix personally by Xue’er, would be a blissful thing for anyone. Like this, any kind of miracle have a chance of happening. If it was a harsh old granny who taught me, I probably wouldn’t have comprehended it within ten years.”
“Hehe…” Even though she knew that Yun Che was coaxing her, she still laughed very cheerfully: “I had originally wanted to teach Big Brother Yun bit by bit, but since Big Brother Yun is so amazing… then I’ll just teach all of World Ode of the Phoenix’s profound arts to Big Brother Yun, maybe Big Brother Yun can similarly comprehend them very fast.”
As she spoke, Feng Xue’er extended her jade hands. A speck of dazzling red light congealed up between her fingers, then, she carefully touched it onto the center of Yun Che’s brows… Instantly, the complete profound formulas of the first to the fourth stage, all slowly and clearly entered Yun Che’s sea of consciousness.
The World Ode of the Phoenix, from the fundamental formula to the first four stages that belonged to Divine Phoenix Sect, was acquired just like this by Yun Che in such a complete and intact fashion.
Yun Che had already received the Phoenix’s blood for nearly three years. Even though he forcefully learned two phoenix profound skills, he never was able to cultivate the World Ode of the Phoenix. The World Ode of the Phoenix could be said as something he had always yearned for even in his dreams, and he knew how difficult and dangerous it would be to obtain this World Ode of the Phoenix from Divine Phoenix Sect. He didn’t expect that he would obtain Divine Phoenix Sect’s complete World Ode of the Phoenix precisely today.
If he went through layers upon layers of danger, schemes, gambles, or even blood and obtained the World Ode of the Phoenix, he would have no qualms about it, and let out three hearty laughters.
But at this moment, obtaining it without spending any effort at all, instead made him to be somewhat at a loss.
Because what Feng Xue’er had given him wasn’t merely World Ode of the Phoenix, but also a heart that completely trusted and was intimate with him, as well as feelings without the slightest speck of dust and impurity.
Yet the premise of everything, was his deceit toward her… Even if it was a deceit where he had no other choice.
As the first four stages of profound formula flooded in, the fifth and sixth stage profound formula that had long ago been engraved within Yun Che’s mind and soul was awakened at the same time. For a moment, the six stages of profound formulas combined and joined together by themselves, converging into the World Ode of the Phoenix’s complete first to sixth stages. Even though Yun Che’s mind was slightly in chaos, the Phoenix profound energy had already automatically channeled and fused following the profound formulas that entered Yun Che’s mind… So, he closed his eyes, ridded the distracting thoughts, and concentrated on comprehending the profound formulas.
————————————
As the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament neared, Divine Phoenix City also became more clamorous day by day. The profound practitioners of the six nations who were participating in Ranking Tournament, as well as their escorts, all one by one arrived at Divine Phoenix City. To be qualified to participate in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, they were no doubt the younger generation’s most tip-top prodigies of the six nations. And the people who accompanied them here, and also similarly beings at the pinnacle of the political and profound world within the six nations… Without exception, the emperors of the six nations all personally came.
However, these people who could all look down upon a nation, when arriving at the Divine Phoenix City, there was no choice but for them to lower their heads, and be cautious and prudent. At this time, there were only three days left until the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. In the six nations, other than the Blue Wind Nation, the other five nation’s participants had already all arrived, and were settled at the core encampment of Divine Phoenix Empire, Phoenix City.
“Hm? Blue Wind Nation’s people still aren’t here today?” Listening to his subordinate’s report, Feng Ximing pondered.
“Yes. I just especially asked the city gate people, there hasn’t been any Blue Wind participants entering the city. Should we immediately sound transmit to Blue Wind Imperial Family to inquire?”
“No need.” Feng Ximing lifted his hand: “Hmph! Tiny Blue Wind Nation is also merely a joke at this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. I had thought someone interesting would happen in this session, looks like, this prince has really overestimated that kid called Yun Che. This prince had actually really believed that he would personally come participate in this Ranking Tournament like he had yelled out. I reckon that he has already hid somewhere he’d believe we can’t find him with tails between his legs.”
“No need to hurry and prepare the Blue Wind Nation’s dwelling location. It’s better that they don’t come, not only will that help us cut down the Ranking Tournament’s schedule, it also just happens to give royal father… another exceptionally good excuse. Withdraw for now… Right, today’s welcome banquet, there’s no need to arrange Blue Wind Nation’s seats either.”
“Yes.”
—————————————
“…A long long time ago, there were two young profound practitioners, one of them was named Zu Kun, the other named Liu Ti. They were of ordinary aptitude, and were frequently bullied and mocked by others. So they worked hard for prosperity, and decided to assiduously train together. Every single day before the sun even came up, as long as they heard the crow of roosters, they would get up from the bed and practice swordsmanship. Day after day, year after year, finally… They both got hit with the bird flu.”
“What is bird flu?” Feng Xue’er asked very curiously.
“Mn, it’s a very terrifying virus.” Yun Che said in dead earnest: “This story, is called “Working hard at the first crow of the rooster”. The moral of the story is that we definitely have to keep away from the bird flu.”
“Uu… This story is so boring. I still want to hear the story of Snow White… After Snow White and the Frog Prince got together, what will happen then? I really want to know.”
“This…. Let me think about it properly.” Yun Che scratched his scalp.
“Think of it properly okay… Big Brother Yun, say ahh.” Leaning on Yun Che’s shoulder, Feng Xue’er put her half-eaten dragon meat skewer beside his mouth, and watched him take a big bite out of it with a grin.
Once the pandora’s box was opened, the former taboo would rip apart a gap ever increasing in size. The Feng Xue’er who would definitely not have any contact with anyone before, was very naturally leaning together with Yun Che, eating the same meat skewer with him under various leads by Yun Che.
If Feng Hengkong saw this scene at this moment, he’d definitely be angry to the point of hovering between life and death. Slapping Yun Che into mincemeat on the spot would even be considered letting him off light.
Chapter 423 - Leaving Phoenix Perching Valley
After a long while, Yun Che finally thought of the following storyline. He cleared his throat, and just as he was about to narrate, the Phoenix God Jade hung in front of her chest suddenly flickered with a scarlet-colored light.
Feng Xue’er took up the Phoenix God Jade, her expression, suddenly became somewhat sullen.
“Xue’er, what is it?” Yun Che immediately asked.
Feng Xue’er looked at Yun Che, and said with a pitiful expression in her eyes: “It’s royal father… He’s about to come here right now, then take me back to Phoenix City. Big Brother Yun…”
“…Why is he taking you back right now? Your royal father making you stay here alone, wasn’t it because he’ll be busy with the matter of the Ranking Tournament and Primordial Profound Ark. But right now should be the time he’s the busiest.” Yun Che said somewhat puzzled.
Feng Xue’er lightly shook her head: “Royal father had said, this is the first Seven Nation Ranking Tournament ever since my birth, and he’ll take me there on-site. If I’m willing, he can even take me onto the Primordial Profound Ark. Royal father taking me back now, should be because all of the affairs have been properly prepared.”
“You will go… to the site of the Ranking Tournament?” Yun Che’s heart slightly shook.
“Mn… Big Brother Yun, quickly leave this place. If royal father sees you here, it’ll be… it’ll be bad.” Feng Xue’er stood up, her expression somewhat panicky. She grabbed Yun Che’s arm, but didn’t push him away, rather, unwittingly gripped tighter.
There were three days left from the start of the Ranking Tournament; in fact, he should’ve left a long time ago. The reason as to why he hadn’t yet left, he knew very well in his heart… It was because he wasn’t willing to part with Feng Xue’er. Her features, voice, heart, every single look, every single expression in her eyes, were all firmly attracting him, making it as if he were sucked into an endlessly beautiful starry sky, sinking deeper and deeper within.
In this world, no one can withstand her charm… And Yun Che, due to an accident stemming from many causes, with extraordinary luck, became the first person who could make close range contact with her.
“It’s indeed time for me to leave.” Yun Che exclaimed in his heart. Attentively watching Feng Xue’er’s eyes flickering with light, he lifted his hand, put it atop Xue’er’s head, as his fingers slowly slid off along the contour of her hair… This unduly intimate action, caused Feng Xue’er’s eyes to only tremble a bit. But, she did not show any signs of rejection: “Xue’er, these days, I will always remember. Thank you, and thank the heavens for letting me meet you.”
“…Big Brother Yun’s words are so weird.” Feng Xur’er minted her charming lips: “Later, we will still meet again, isn’t that right?”
“Of course.” Yun Che smilingly nodded: “Because I’ve already promised to take Xue’er to see the endlessly flowing snow. My promise to Xue’er, will never be forgotten.”
“Mn!” Feng Xue’er nodded, her expression finally becoming somewhat cheerful. Her eyes carried unwillingness to part, yet her hands were gently pushing Yun Che: “Even though, I really hate to part with Big Brother Yun, it really is time for Big Brother Yun to leave… Royal father will arrive here in less than a quarter of an hour. If you still don’t leave, you’ll really be discovered by royal father.”
“…I’m going.” Yun Che’s hand moved away from Feng Xue’er’s shoulders. After glancing at her with incredible meticulousness, he finally turned around, then called over the Snow Phoenix Beast.
Snow Phoenix Beast flew up to him, and just as he was about to hop onto Snow Phoenix Beast’s back, Yun Che stopped in his steps. He turned around, his hands quietly clutched tight, and at last he still said in a small voice: “Xue’er, if… let’s say if one day, you found out… I have lied to you about some things, will you hate me? Will you still consider me your Big Brother Yun?”
“Ah?” Yun Che’s sudden words, made Feng Xue’er a little at a loss: “Why would Big Brother Yun say such a weird thing? How is it possible for Big Brother Yun to deceive me?”
“I’m saying, just if… if there are some things, I really have deceived you on, would you hate me?” Yun Che’s voice became even quieter; a sentence that wasn’t lengthy, yet was spoken with extraordinary difficulty.
“I… I don’t know.” Feng Xue’er shook her head, the expression in her eyes was somewhat stumped, as if she couldn’t understand the question Yun Che had put forward. She lightly spoke: “But, in these days together with Big Brother Yun, what I have felt are all Big Brother Yun’s kindness toward me. Snowing for me every day, teaching me how to build snowmen, cooking delicious food for me, telling me many interesting stories… Big Brother Yun’s smile is pretty, and his gaze is also very gentle. These days, I’ve been so happy every day, even the dreams I dream when sleeping, had become very blissful.”
Yun Che: “…”
“This kind of Big Brother Yun, I don’t believe he would be willing to deceive me. Even if… even if he really deceived me, then he must’ve had no other choice, and not in order to harm me.” Every single word of Feng Xue’er, was sincere and relaxed; this was the voice coming from her heart: “I will forever remember Big Brother Yun’s kindness, and the matter he promised me… In the future, no matter what happens, I believe that Big Brother Yun will never harm me, and I’ll never do anything that’ll harm Big Brother Yun either.”
The last sentence of Feng Xue’er, made Yun Che somewhat puzzled. But even more so, it fiercely stirred up his heart. He no longer spoke, because no matter what he said under Feng Xue’er’s gaze that was as pure as snow, it would be incomparably pale in comparison. He leapt onto the Snow Phoenix Beast’s back, took off into the air under Snow Phoenix Beast’s carriage, and directly flew toward Absolute Phoenix Cliff. Feng Xue’er had already told him, that the other three directions of Phoenix Perching Valley all should have people guarding there. If he were to safely leave without alarming anyone, he would still need to go through Absolute Phoenix Cliff.
“Big Brother Yun, I’ll come here often in the future… I will wait for Big Brother Yun to appear once again…”
“Big Brother Yun, you can’t forget the words said between us. After I’m twenty, you definitely have to take me to Snow Region of Extreme Ice…”
“Big Brother Yun, Little White, I’ll miss you guys very much…”
The sound of wind howled beside his ears. Feng Xue’er’s voice came from below against the wind; the voice at last, even carried a sobbing tone that was being repressed with effort.
A few thousand meters in height, wasn’t much for Snow Phoenix Beast. Very soon, Absolute Phoenix Cliff’s summit appeared before Yun Che’s eyes. Yun Che dismounted from Snow Phoenix Beast’s back, and stood beside the cliff. Within the dark green colored valley that was like an otherworldly utopia, he could faintly see that fairy-like beautiful silhouette.
She was the princess of Divine Phoenix Empire, the most brilliant jewel of the entire Profound Sky Continent. She had been protected to the utmost limit… But at the same time, she was also lonely… Which was why, in these days he had carelessly intruded into her world, she was so happy and excited.
“Little Chan, do you want to accompany her, by her side?” With his gaze looking down, Yun Che suddenly spoke.
“Screee…” Snow Phoenix Beast slapped her wings, and let out a quiet cry. Its majestic head continuously made a few… nodding movements!
Huh? Nodding!?
With an extremely bitter and unsatisfied expression in his eyes, Yun Che gave Snow Phoenix Beast a fierce stare… Even if Xue’er’s charm can’t be resisted, even if you really want to stay by her side, you are still my contracted profound beast right nowwwww!!! Can’t you be a little bit more reserved, even if you have to fake it a little!
…Forget it.
Yun Che’s mouth became askew. He extended his wrist, as the Snow Phoenix Beast’s profound imprint emerged on the back. With a thought, the profound energy connection with Snow Phoenix Beast was directly severed. The profound imprint on the back of his hand, also slowly vanished.
Snow Phoenix Beast completely recovered its freedom. It spread its wings and took off, and circled and danced above Yun Che’s head, letting out sharp cries that one couldn’t tell whether it was from excitement or unwillingness to part.
Seeing the Snow Phoenix Beast that regained freedom, what was more in Yun Che’s heart wasn’t sadness, but a sort of relaxed feeling. He said with a faint smile: “Little Chan, go ahead. Staying with me, you will only face hardships and danger everywhere. Accompanying Xue’er, she likes you so much, and will definitely treat you well. You no longer need to suffer laborious hardship with me anymore… Go.”
Scree~~~~
A long cry resonantly sliced through the skies. After Snow Phoenix Beast danced and fluttered for a while, it finally descended, and flew toward the Phoenix Perching Valley below. Very soon, those two snow-white colored silhouettes slowly assembled together.
Yun Che let out a faint laugh. After taking another deep glance in the end, he took two steps back, then put away all of his unwillingness to part, and walked toward the south.
“Why did you let Snow Phoenix Beast leave?” Jasmine couldn’t help but ask: “You still can’t fly right now. Without Snow Phoenix Beast, what will you do when you need to fly?”
Yun Che shook his head, and said: “Giving the Snow Phoenix Beast to Xue’er, isn’t just because Xue’er likes it. It is because that I don’t know whether or not I can successfully preserve my own life during this session of Ranking Tournament. If I am unlucky… At least Snow Phoenix Beast doesn’t need to die together with me. Not only can it be saved, it can be considered a tiny bit of repayment to Xue’er… Her heart was sincere toward me, yet I, still have deceived her after all that’s said and done.”
“Hmph…” Jasmine sneered: “Deceiving girls, isn’t that your habitual method of doing things! You had never been so conscious of your guilt before, isn’t that so.”
“That’s not the same.” Yun Che curled his lips: “Conquering and deception are two entirely different concepts, a little girl like you wouldn’t understand.”
“…” Jasmine was disdained to reply, and asked conversely: “On the matter of whether or not you can keep your life, I actually have good news to tell you.”
“Good news?”
Jasmine said indifferently: “If I’m guessing correctly, after your Phoenix bloodline was found out by Divine Phoenix Sect, what you dread the most isn’t Divine Phoenix Sect, but the true progenitor of Divine Phoenix Sect… the other Phoenix Spirit, just like the Phoenix Spirit you met at the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain Range back then.”
Yun Che’s footsteps stalled a little, then he slowly nodded: “You are entirely correct. Back then, when I left the Phoenix’s trial grounds, the Phoenix Spirit had also warned severely, that I must be cautious of the other Phoenix Spirit’s existence. Divine Phoenix Sect’s Phoenix Spirit had always thought the Phoenix Spirit who granted me heritage was killed by it a long time ago. If it found out that the Phoenix’s bloodline in me stems from another Phoenix’s legacy… Then, the one who will be harmed, will not only be myself. The Phoenix Spirit of the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain Range, as well as the Phoenix tribe who just recently broke away from their curse, may also encounter a great disaster.” Yun Che uttered a low sigh: “Yet with the bloodline’s exposure, there would be no other choice but to face Divine Phoenix Sect as soon as possible. Otherwise, the ones who will be implicated would be people at my side… So, on the way here from the Blue Wind Nation, I had always prayed for that phoenix beast to always be residing in the dark, and won’t have any interest to probe into affairs of the Ranking Tournament.
“About this Phoenix Spirit, there’s already no need for you to worry.” Jasmine said emotionlessly.
“Why?”
“Because… it’s already dead!”
“What? Dead?” Yun Che’s footsteps stopped at once: “Are you sure? Wait! How did you know it’s dead?”
“Heh…” Jasmine laughed insidiously: “You don’t need to mind how I found out. It shouldn’t be too long since its death, but I am certain that it has already died! However, even though it died, there’s a high chance that the bloodline and memories have been passed on. So, in this world, there are perhaps still people who can discern that your bloodline comes from another Phoenix’s legacy.”
Yun Che’s spirit was instantly roused up. Words spoken by Jasmine in such a confidence tone, naturally he wouldn’t doubt them: “Very well! If Divine Phoenix Sect’s Phoenix Spirit really has died, then, my greatest worry is also gone! Like this, during the Ranking Tournament, I will be able to perform without any worries of future consequences!”
“And so? How confident are you to make Divine Phoenix Sect no longer find trouble for you, and also survive?”
“Seventy percent!” Yun Che said with swelling confidence: “Perhaps, I’d even be able to go for a stroll on that mysterious Primordial Profound Ark!”
Chapter 424 - Phoenix City
Yun Che descended from Absolute Phoenix Cliff, left the Phoenix Mountain Range, pondered for a bit, and then directly returned to Divine Phoenix City, heading straight toward Phoenix City.
Phoenix City was located in the south-western area of Divine Phoenix City. While belonging to Divine Phoenix City, it also existed independently, and was a special city within a city. Just like the Divine Phoenix Imperial Palace, Phoenix City was also the core base of Divine Phoenix Sect. The difference being, one was the core of authority, and the other was the core of force. While the two, both possessed incomparably strong deterrence force.
Within Phoenix City, there was a place called Phoenix Realm, which was the place where the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament had always been conducted at.
Nearing Phoenix City, a sense of pressure that made one palpate, and a distinctly scorching air surged against one’s face. Above the gigantic city gate was a huge, majestic, awe-inspiring phoenix. Yun Che stopped in his steps, but didn’t walk inside. As a tournament participant, he ought to have dwelling places that were already arranged, but there would certainly be a great deal of uncertain factors if he moved in here, since his identity was special. Him coming this time, was only to scout out the location. After confirming the location of Phoenix City, he turned around and left, then quickly disguised himself and checked in at a remote and quiet inn.
From the start of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, three last days were left.
Three days, were enough for him to finish absorbing the Sky Profound Universal Pellet.
After entering the inn and properly surveying the surroundings before closing the room’s door, Yun Che took out the Phoenix Halianthus, Devil’s Flaming Blood Crystal and the other materials, then quickly refined them with the Sky Poison Pearl. Very soon, an entirely scarlet colored pellet that seemed as if it had just been soaked in fresh blood emerged within Yun Che’s palm. As the pellet took form, a surge of berserking aura also instantly discharged, violently pushing away the surrounding air.
Lifting up this newly refined Sky Profound Universal Pellet, Yun Che didn’t even think, and threw it in his mouth without hesitation.
The Sky Profound Universal Pellet melted the moment it entered his mouth, and instantly turned into a lava-like heatwave, flooding into the profound veins and meridians of his entire body. Instantly, a pain as if he was being stabbed by needles came from his entire body. Yun Che closed his eyes, his expression entirely tranquil, as if he felt nothing. This kind of pellet that could forcefully raise one’s profound strength in a short period of time would certainly have an extremely fierce medicinal property, and the risk would often be much greater than the reward. But Yun Che, after all, had the Phoenix Blood and Dragon’s Marrow, with the Great Way of the Buddha as protection; he could even consume and drink an Emperor Profound Dragon’s flesh and blood with the body of an Spirit Profound Realm back then. With a body of the Earth Profound Realm currently, consuming the Sky Profound Universal Pellet would be even less of a concern.
Even so, under the ferocious medicinal property of the Sky Profound Universal Pellet, it was still very unpleasant for Yun Che. As the medicinal power slowly dissolved outwards, the heat steam that flooded into his profound veins also became more and more ruthless and fierce. Even though his expression was calm on his face, his forehead was already quietly covered with fine, dense sweat.
………………………………
The time it took to absorb the Sky Profound Universal Pellet was around what Yun Che had expected. When he completely finished absorbing,and opened his eyes, it was already the early morning of the third day.
Yun Che stood up and extended his hands. In these three days, his clothes were soaked through once and once again by sweat, and was emitting a pungent smell of sweat. He opened up his palm, and a small profound energy whirlpool appeared in the center of his palm. And as he closed up his palm, the profound energy whirlpool immediately dispersed, letting out a resounding sound of popping air.
“The extent of the increase in power is about the same as I expected. From Sky Profound Realm, there is finally only one step away.” Yun Che clenched his fist, and muttered to himself: “Jasmine, how long did it take for me to absorb it.?”
“Three days.”
“Oh… What? Three days?!”
Yun Che quivered, and fiercely jumped up. He quickly took a look outside the window, judged the time a little, then scampered off toward the door: “Jasmine! Why didn’t you call me! Today is the date of the Ranking Tournament you know, there’s still quite a long distance from here to Phoenix City!”
“I don’t have the obligation to warn you.”
As he rushed to the doorstep, Yun Che stopped in his steps. He smelled his sleeves a little, and heavily shut the door he pulled open once again: “Oh well, let me take a bath first.”
Jasmine: “…”
——————————————————————
When Yun Che came rushing to the Phoenix City, it was already nearly nine in the morning. From the start of the Ranking Tournament, less than half an hour was left.
The front of the Phoenix City gate was surrounded by densely packed crowds. These people were all ones who weren’t qualified to enter, or didn’t manage to get an admission ticket, and could only unwillingly pace back and forth outside of the city, hoping they could receive the tournament feed at the first moment. Yun Che quickly pushed the crowd aside and rushed to the front of Phoenix City’s main city gate, then was stopped by two Phoenix disciples.
“Show your qualification for entrance.” One of the Phoenix disciples who stopped him said lazily. The same kind of words, he probably have repeated countless times today.
“I am the participant from Blue Wind Nation.” Yun Che said succinctly, and at the same time took out his participant emblem.
The moment the red participant emblem was taken out, the two Phoenix disciple’s gazes instantly concentrated in attention. As they made out the two words “Blue Wind” clearly, they looked at each other for a bit, and revealed the same kind of odd expression in their eyes. One of the Phoenix disciple shouted at the inside: “Senior Brother Zhanyun, Blue Wind Nation’s participant has arrived!”
“Hah? Blue Wind!?”
Very soon, a young person with a robust physique walked out. He saw the participant emblem in Yun Che’s hand at a glance, then gave him a stare and said softly: “We had thought that your Blue Wind Nation didn’t dare to come, you actually came at this time. You are treating this Ranking Tournament way too flippantly… Forget it, let me personally bring you guys in. Where are the people other than you?”
“None.” Yun Che shook his head: “Just me.”
“Hah? Just you alone?”
“That’s right, Blue Wind this time, only has me alone as the tournament participant. There aren’t any others, nor are there any escorts. I’ll trouble you to bring me in, the Ranking Tournament is about to start.” Yun Che said calmly.
Feng Zhanyun sized up Yun Che from head to toe, then probed his profound strength on a whim. The corner of his lips flattened, as he was too lazy to say anything else. He said heedlessly: “Oh well, since you’ve come, then come with me.”
“Senior Brother Zhanyun, should we report this to Great Elder?”
“No need.” Feng Zhanyun waved his hand: “The Ranking Tournament is about to start, there’s no need to distract him with such a trivial matter. After all, he’s only here to show a formality, just make the arrangements as you wish.”
Phoenix City was the core ground of Divine Phoenix Sect, and naturally wouldn’t let outsiders step in as they wish. The means to get through to Phoenix Realm’s core, was a somewhat long and narrow rigid passage. On both sides of the passage came the auras of fire profound formations. Clearly, anyone who dared to try to step into areas outside of the passageway would definitely encounter attacks by the profound formations.
Entering Phoenix Realm, before even nearing the Ranking Tournament’s arena, a wave of bustling and impassioned air had already blasted head on. When entering the arena, Yun Che’s entire person went stupefied for a bit.
Cang Wanhe had told him before, that to the Blue Wind’s profound practitioners, the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was a disgrace they were most unwilling to talk about. But to the other six nations, it was the most important and grand occasion for the profound practitioning world that came every twenty five years. When a session of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament approached, from emperors to commoners, none of them wouldn’t follow with all their heart. For this ranking tournament, they would even start preparing five years prior.
And at this moment, Yun Che finally began to understand what the “Seven Nation Ranking Tournament” seldomly mentioned by the Blue Wind Nation meant.
The enormous scale of the arena, far surpassed his expectations, and the overwhelming majority of the arena, was naturally the audience seats. At a glance, the crowds were bustling with activity, endless and boundless. From top to bottom, the entire arena was filled with people, and definitely was no less than several million in number. In the sky high above, numerous people were flying about like locusts.
Comparing the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament’s atmosphere and scale with this… It could be said that the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament wasn’t even qualified to be compared.
The incomparably enormous seating areas were divided into several sections, and every single section were filled with people, with no empty seats at all, but they still could be considered distinctively divided. At the frontmost area of the seating, Yun Che saw the respective insignias of five nations, and the five nation’s participants and escorts sat amongst these seats. Behind them, were all basically the supporters of their own country. Before the Ranking Tournament even began, the faces of each and every one of them were thoroughly flushed, their eyes glowed, and their expressions were filled with excitement and expectation. To them, being able to enter the ranking tournament’s scene to cheer for their own country and testify the tournament’s course, was already an honor that they could flaunt for their entire lives.
The main seating area of the arena naturally belonged to Divine Phoenix Sect. However, the Divine Phoenix Sect’s frontmost seats were empty, and Divine Phoenix Sect’s big shots haven’t arrived yet.
Yun Che’s gaze quickly swept around, yet he couldn’t find Blue Wind’s seating area at all.
“Heh, how is it? Are you startled, is it that you’ve never seen such a great spectacle since the day you were born?” Feng Zhanyun asked as he looked at Yun Che with the corner of his eyes.
“Why is there no seating area for Blue Wind Nation?” Yun Che asked with his brows knitted.
“Why should there be?” Feng Zhanyun curled his lips, and asked back: “Your Blue Wind Nation’s profound practitioner coming to this Seven Nation’s Ranking Tournament, isn’t it just for making up the number of ‘Seven Nation’, or perhaps… Heheh, adding a little laughing stock. Speaking of which, you guys ought to have seats, after all, you lot are at least an independent nation. But up until three days ago, we still haven’t received any news from the Blue Wind Nation, and thought that you guys aren’t even bothering to ‘make up’ a number, so we didn’t prepare anything regarding your Blue Wind Nation, including seating.”
Yun Che’s brows tightened up, and didn’t speak.
This wasn’t a problem of whether or not seating was prepared, even if Blue Wind Nation declared to not participate a few months ahead of time, there still should be Blue Wind Nation’s seating area here… Because this was the most basic recognition and respect for a genuinely existing nation.
But in the entire arena right now, the six nations were all present, only Blue Wind Nation’s seating area didn’t exist… This was simply already not putting Blue Wind Nation in their eyes without any intention to hide it! It could even be a deliberate act of contempt and humiliation.
He believed that there must be many spectators from the Blue Wind Nation in the arena. Every single person of the Blue Wind Nation seeing this kind of scene, would definitely become so angry that their lungs would explode.
“And it’s fortunate that we didn’t prepare. Only a kid like you came from Blue Wind. Tsk tsk, if a chunk of seating for Blue Wind was reserved, that’d really be too wasteful. As for you… Hm, there aren’t any other empty seats, you can only stand here I suppose. When you are required to enter the stage, you can just fly over from here, how convenient is that… Oh right, you seemed to only be at the Earth Profound Realm, and can’t use the Profound Floating Technique yet. Then just do as you fit, I guess. I, Feng Zhanyun personally bringing you here, and even arranging a place here for you to stand, is already gaining a lot of face for you, enough for you to go flaunting about it for a decade or so.”
The “here” Feng Zhanyun was talking about, was a corner at the utmost edge of the colossal arena. Not only was the location extremely bad, the center of the arena couldn’t be seen if one’s eyepower wasn’t enough, it couldn’t even be considered a seat! If one really had to find an advantage for this position, it could only be that this location could overlook a great half of the arena.
Chapter 425 - Arrival of the Sacred Grounds (1)
“Kid, I can’t help but say that I really admire your courage and cheek. If it was me, let’s not even talk about coming alone; just speaking of this Earth Profound Realm… Heh heh, I wouldn’t have the face to enter this arena.” Feng Zhanyun smiled mockingly. Suddenly, his complexion flickered, and his gaze turned towards the center of the main seats. His voice stirred excitedly: “Sect Master, Young Sect Master, and the Great Elders have arrived… Ah…”
At this time, Feng Zhanyun’s breathing suddenly became hurried and brief. His eyes stared forward rigidly, and his voice began trembling: “Ah… ah-ah-ah-ah… that’s… could it be… Princess Snow!?”
The incomparably enormous arena was capable of holding almost three million people; just the sound of everyone’s breathing amounted to rumbling thunder. But at this moment, the enormous arena instantly became incomparably silent, such that even a pin drop could have been heard, and it seemed like everything had frozen in motion. Everyone’s gazes were directed upward, attentively watching the phoenix flame that had been lit in the sky.
The flame in the air assumed the shape of a flying phoenix. Atop the phoenix flame, several silhouettes descended slowly. Among the Divine Phoenix Sect’s seats, all of the participants from the Divine Phoenix Sect were already seated; even the princes, elders, hall masters, pavilion masters, and city masters were already there. But the foremost fifteen seats of the Divine Phoenix Clan were still vacant. And the position of these fifteen seats were evidently higher than that of princes and elders!
Today, the owners of these fifteen center seats finally arrived.
The silhouettes in the air slowly descended as they stepped on the Phoenix flame. Included among these people were the Divine Phoenix Sect’s Feng Hengkong and Great Elder Feng Feiyan. Young Sect Master and Crown Prince, Feng Ximing, was also lined up grandly. The other ten people were all elder and city master-level existences that were at the peak of strength and prestige in Divine Phoenix Sect. Without the least exaggeration, any individual among these people was a super existence capable of showing disdain in the Profound Sky. They stood together, their enormous imposing manner enveloping the entire arena, making all three million people in the arena have a heavy suffocating feeling.
However, including the Divine Phoenix Sect Master Feng Hengkong, not one person became the focal point of everyone’s gazes. Everyone’s gazes, as if locked by some irresistible force, fell onto the delicate and tender figure of the young girl standing beside Feng Henkong. She was dressed in luxurious phoenix clothing and wore a Phoenix Jade Crown. The Phoenix Jade glass that hung down from her crown completely shrouded her visage, rendering one incapable of even getting the slightest glimpse of her skin and grace.
But when people looked at such a girl, whose complexion couldn’t even be seen, their souls would still suddenly surge intensely. They were unable to describe such a feeling, as if they had fallen into an illusory dreamland all of a sudden, watching a girl that had walked out of a dream… Although they couldn’t see her face, every person’s heart was filled with the incomparably firm belief that she must have the world’s most perfect appearance, no less than that of a heavenly fairy.
This seemed like some kind of magic, and also seemed like a dreamy temperament that shouldn’t belong to a young girl from the mortal world.
At this time, the Feng Hengkong and Feng Feiyan-level existences beside this young girl completely became decorative props, the many stars around the arched moon. In fact, while Feng Hengkong and the young girl stood in the middle, and the others stood evenly spread around them, the center of the region they encircled wasn’t Feng Hengkong… but that young girl.
“Princess Snow… it’s the fabled Princess Snow!” Within the arena, a man yelled with incomparable excitement.
“Besides Princess Snow, who can stand on equal footing with the Phoenix Sect Master… Besides Princess Snow, who can possess such celestial character… Heavens! I’m actually seeing the fabled Princess Snow…”
“Having spent a tenth of the family property in order to get ahold of this entrance ticket, I felt a little conned originally… But to be able to catch a glimpse of Princess Snow, even if I lost the entire family fortune, it would be completely worth it!”
“I couldn’t be dreaming, right? Princess Snow only appeared that one time when she was thirteen… Today, I’m actually witnessing her charm and grace with my own eyes…”
“It’s a pity, we can’t see Princess Snow’s face. The thirteen year old Princess Snow already possessed the beauty of a heavenly being; the sixteen year old Princess Snow right now… who knows to what extent her beauty has developed.”
“Know satisfaction already, you! Being able to witness Princess Snow’s figure with your own eyes, is already a fortune gained by your former incarnation! How could Princess Snow’s heavenly appearance be something that common folks like us are qualified to appreciate!”
…………
…………
The enormous arena once again became clamorous. The impassioned mood that had filled the entire arena, had all turned into the excitement and exclamation towards Princess Snow, making the people almost forget why they came here today. They felt that even if they were to leave the arena right now without being able to see the ranking tournament, being able to have a glance at Princess Snow’s beauty was already more than tens of millions times worth it.
In this entire world, to be able to instigate such a great shock with an entrance, moreover with covered features, Princess Snow would be the only one!
Feng Hengkong’s gaze was tranquil yet dignified. His eyes swept through the entire audience, and wasn’t slightly surprised at this abrupt commotion. His gaze turned, and when it fell onto the Feng Xue’er beside him, the dignified gaze instantly became incomparably gentle, so gentle as though he was afraid his gaze would bring her harm.
This number one hegemon of the Profound Sky Seven Nations, a supreme being like the Emperor of Heaven’s Palace, would also only reveal such an expression in his eyes when facing this sole daughter of his.
“Princess Snow… It’s really Princess Snow.”
Feng Zhanyun’s face became thoroughly flushed. His legs were trembling, he was excited and moved to the point of almost slacking down onto the ground. His hand pressed at the position of his heart with power, as if he didn’t do it, his heart would even jump out from his thoracic cavity. He had already planned to just throw Yun Che here and leave right away, but Princess Snow’s appearance made his footsteps unable to move any longer. His two eyes fixedly watched on, as his soul had almost flew outside of the world.
Yun Che was naturally aware of Feng Xue’er’s charm. Looking at the charming figure of Xue’er in the distance, and looking at Feng Zhanyun’s expression… As a man, he really wanted to flauntingly roar: Not only have I seen Xue’er’s true appearance, I’ve even touched her hand and hair, do you believe me!? Are you envious!?
Of course, he absolutely didn’t dare to speak these words. Watching everyone’s reactions, he was certain that if he really shouted out, Feng Hengkong wouldn’t need to tear him apart personally; everyone present would use their gazes to pierce him until he looked like a porcupine!
Yun Che tapped Feng Zhanyun, pretended to be puzzled, and asked: “Aren’t you from the Divine Phoenix Sect? Why are you still so excited to see Princess Snow? Could it be that the people inside your sect don’t ordinarily see her?”
“Of course! In this world, how many people have the qualifications to be near Princess Snow!” Feng Zhanyun said emotionally: “Princess Snow is usually kept beside the Ancestral Phoenix God; she’s the first person in the history of my Divine Phoenix Sect that the Ancestral Phoenix God has personally given guidance to. Other than Sect Master and the Great Elder-level people, meeting Princess Snow is simply impossible…”
Having spoken to this point, Feng Zhanyun suddenly snapped awake from his excitement: “F*ck! Why’d I just say all this to you! You’ve practically run through eight million years of good luck! Someone only at the Earth Profound Realm, representing Blue Wind Empire as a stopgap, was actually able to see Princess Snow on the spot… Your life can be considered worth it now!”
“…Yes, yes.” Yun Che nodded, then silently knit his eyebrows… Ancestral Phoenix God? Without a doubt, it should be that Phoenix Spirit! He asked probingly: “You just said… Ancestral Phoenix God? I’ve heard that your Divine Phoenix Sect has at least five thousand years of history. Your ancestor can live up to five thousand years old?”
Feng Zhanyun used a gaze as though he was looking at a retard and gave Yun Che a glance from the side: “In the end, you’re just a nobody from Blue Wind Empire; how could you understand my Divine Phoenix Sect’s inside information. Our Ancestral Phoenix God is the world’s most powerful spirit! What does an insignificant five thousand years mean; the Ancestral Phoenix God has an everlasting life! It will always protect my Divine Phoenix Sect, and will never wither away. Are you aware of the Four Great Sacred Grounds? The Four Great Sacred Grounds all have tens of thousands of years of history, but five thousand years ago, my Divine Phoenix Sect rose abruptly. In less than three hundred years’ time, it has become the number one sect in the Profound Sky Continent. The Four Great Sacred Grounds have never tried to suppress us; do you know why? Heh heh, it’s because of the existence of our Ancestral Phoenix God! Even if it was some Saint Emperor, Sovereign of the Seas, Heavenly Monarch or Sword Master, they still wouldn’t dare to act rashly in front of my Ancestral Phoenix God…”
Feng Zhanyun finished speaking loftily, then curled his lip disdainfully: “Forget it, speaking about this to you is useless. In your lifetime, I estimate your limit will be the late stages of the Sky Profound Realm. Even if you cultivated for ten thousand lives, you still wouldn’t be able to touch the Ancestral Phoenix God’s current strength.”
“Oh~~~” Yun Che answered without much thought, then sank deep into thought… From what Feng Zhanyun had said, not only did the Ancestral Phoenix God still exist, it had an unlimited lifespan, and it made even the Four Great Sacred Grounds cower in fear from its might.
Yet Jasmine had said with an extremely certain tone… that that Phoenix Spirit had already died.
Could it be, the Divine Phoenix Sect had concealed the fact that the Phoenix Spirit had died this entire time?
This was extremely probable! After all, the Phoenix Spirit’s existence was an enormous deterrence to the Four Great Sacred Grounds. If news of the Phoenix Spirit’s death spread out, then the greatest deterrence of the Divine Phoenix Sect would no longer exist. Furthermore, it would also no longer have the qualifications to challenge the Four Great Sacred Grounds anymore.
The Phoenix Flame beneath Feng Hengkong and company went out, and they landed on the ground, then sat down in their seats. Feng Xue’er sat besides Feng Hengkong, a position on the same level as that of Feng Hengkong! The other people all sat behind them. Yun Che silently watched Feng Xue’er’s silhouette, and his heart sighed lightly… Xue’er, the next time you see me, what will your feelings be? Will you be hurt and sad… If that’s the case, even I will be incapable of forgiving myself.
As for Feng Zhanyun, he already thoroughly didn’t have any desire to leave. He stared fixedly at Feng Xue’er’s dream-like silhouette, and his face filled with an expression of infatuation and devotion… Yun Che estimated that right now, even if he struck him with a rod, he wouldn’t leave.
Feng Hengkong just sat, took a glance at the time, swept his gaze across the distinguished seats reserved for those from the Four Great Sacred Grounds, and said: “Have the honored guests from the Sacred Grounds arrived yet?
“They are always conceited with their status, and would never arrive until the last moment, there is no need for Sect Master to mind. Their intentions are set on the Primordial Profound Ark, they will certainly come.” Feng Feiyan said expressionlessly. He was the directly related older brother of Feng Hengkong, and was only seven years older than him, yet he looked to be twenty or thirty years older. With his cultivation, at two hundred years old, he could totally look no different than twenty or thirty, but it was very clear that he did not choose to deliberately control the characteristics of age with profound strength.
“Mn.” Feng Hengkong slowly nodded: “Since they are honored guests, we’ll wait for fifteen minutes longer.”
“Hahahaha, no need for fifteen minutes. An honored invitation of the phoenix, how could I, this Ling, not come.”
An ear-splitting hearty laugh sounded from above, and instantly resounded through the entire arena as if a gale, jolting to the point of causing everyone’s eardrums to severely quiver. Right after, the enormous pressure belonging to an Overlord enveloped down, as a green colored figure quickly flashed through the air, then fell upon the “Mighty Heavenly Sword Region” seat like a ghost.
The moment the voice sounded, Yun Che’s thoughts flickered at once. Because he was extraordinarily familiar with this voice. And when that person descended, Yun Che’s brows also moved along with it…
Sure enough, it was Ling Kun!!
The person at the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament back then, who was invited as witness by the Heavenly Sword Villa! That time, he had even taken the initiative to throw out an olive branch at Yun Che, inviting him to join Mighty Heavenly Sword Region.
Who would’ve thought the person representing the Mighty Heavenly Sword Region at this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament would also be him!
Chapter 426 - Arrival of the Sacred Grounds (2)
“Haha,” Feng Hengkong stood up, and cupped his hands at Ling Kun: “Elder Ling, it has been twenty-five years; I trust you have been well.”
“As expected, the one coming from Mighty Heavenly Sword Region is this person again.” Feng Zhanyun murmured with a low voice.
“Again? Which means, it was him last time as well?” Yun Che asked.
“That’s right. The people of Mighty Heavenly Sword Region all reportedly practice their sword in tranquility, yet this Ling Kun instead travels the seven nations of Profound Sky for years on end, and is the person who stays outside of Mighty Heavenly Sword Region for the longest time. Even though his status at Mighty Heavenly Sword Region isn’t very high, it seems that he has received much of the Sword Master’s recognition.”
Ling Kun also gave Feng Hengkong a wave: “I naturally have been well. Rather than that, Sect Master Feng’s aura has become even more thick and profound, this Ling is already far, far behind.”
“Haha, Elder Ling is being modest.” Feng Hengkong laughed faintly, then his tone changed: “Elder Ling, would the one who has arrived together with you, be Young Hall Master Ye?”
Once Feng Hengkong’s question ended, the complexions of the Phoenix Elders behind immediately changed slightly as they raised their heads upwards in succession.
“Hahahaha!”
Another hearty laugh came from a distance overhead. This laughter was not as vast and powerful as Ling Kun’s but it was willful and flamboyant, and there were only a few in the Profound Sky Continent who would dare to laugh this unrestrainedly in Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory. Amidst the wild laughter, an illustrious white radiance akin to the blazing sun suddenly projected in the sky above. On the other side, an equally dazzling floating crescent moon appeared as well. This sun and moon instantly snatched away all the brilliance in this space.
A young man slowly walked out from within the radiance of the circular sun and crescent moon. Dressed in white, his brows were as sharp as swords and his eyes glistened like stars. His face was like white jade, the slanted and slender brows penetrated deeply into his hairline, as an aloof yet nefarious smile hung on his face… To be more precise, that was an obscene smile. While he himself, didn’t have any intentions of hiding this “Obsceneness”.
He opened his arms, and at once, two women bewitching in every way walked out from the radiance, swinging their water snake-like waist, and threw themselves into his embrace from both sides. The man bursted into a loud laughter, and under the light of the sun’s and moon’s brilliance, the sleeves of his robe fluttered as he slowly descended while holding two women. Moreover, he continuously moved his hands up and down on the two women’s bodies, as if this were a place with no people. Under his caressing and stroking, the two bewitching women moaned again and again with their waists wringing about.
“This person…” Yun Che’s brows greatly knitted, but it wasn’t because of his utterly unbearable conduct under the eyes of everyone. Rather, it was because from this person’s body, he felt an extremely dangerous kind of aura.
The more unbridled and pompous someone was on the surface, they would often be some useless person who only drinks and eats, and would be very easy to deal with… But on this person, this rule did not apply at all! The warning of danger Yun Che felt due to a certain aura on him, was incomparably intense.
“As expected of Phoenix Sect Master; these little gimmicks of mine, really are inadequate in front of Phoenix Sect Master.” As the young man landed, the brilliance of the sun and moon finally vanished as well. Yet he didn’t land on his seat, and instead landed in front of Divine Phoenix Sect’s seating area, less than a mere ten steps away from Feng Xue’er’s seat. He let go of the two women, took a step forward, as he slightly raised his hand, his eyes narrowed halfway: “Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Ye Xinghan, greets Phoenix Sect Master. I have already heard Phoenix Sect Master’s prestige for a long time, to be able to meet today is the blessing of my three lifetimes.”
“What? Ye Xinghan!?”
Hearing this youth reveal his name, the audience instantly cried out in surprise. Because, this was the name of Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master! The person from Sun Moon Divine Hall this time, was actually the Young Hall Master!!
Though Feng Hengkong had already learnt that Ye Xinghan was unbridled with women, he didn’t expect him to be so debauched. He faintly smiled, and said: “Young Hall Master’s words are too strong. Rather, Young Hall Master’s name is like a thunder which pierces the ear. Meeting you today, your excellence is superior than your reputation… Young Hall Master’s seat is to the right side of Elder Ling. Three honored guests, please enter your seats.”
“No need to hurry.” Yet Ye Xinghan leisurely rebuffed. His gaze shifted, and fell upon Feng Xue’er’s body. A pair of long and narrow eyes instantly squinted, as they radiated an extremely scorching light…
Up until now, it could be said that Ye Xinghan have had his way with countless women. And the women who he took a fancy to, their looks, physique were all one chosen from a thousand. It could be said that his immunity toward women’s looks and disposition was extremely high, yet at the moment he saw Feng Xue’er, he felt all of the blood in his entire body start to boil, as every single cell in his body throbbed madly.
For the first time in his life, Ye Xinghan had a feeling of not daring to believe that she actually exist, while she was clearly before his eyes. It was even to the point where he couldn’t imagine just what kind of celestial beauty was underneath this sort of air that transcended worldliness. The desire to possess crazily sprouted and grew within his chest cavity and soul… At the same time, her physique, was more so unparalleled under heaven…
She was simply the most flawless woman, the most flawless incubator!
“Could this Phoenix goddess be, the Princess Snow known as the number one beauty of Profound Sky?” Staring at Feng Xue’er, Ye Xinghai spoke with his eyes pursed up. Everyone in the world knew the name of Princess Snow, and everyone in the world also knew to what extent Divine Phoenix Sect protected Princess Snow. Therefore, even if one had millions of intentions toward Princess Snow, they definitely shouldn’t, and also wouldn’t dare to reveal such intentions in front of Feng Hengkong and Divine Phoenix Sect’s crowd. Yet this Ye Xinghan had the gaze of a wolf, his wrists rolling, not concealing his desire that was as scorching as a fiery inferno in the slightest… No one knew if it was because his desire had gotten to his self-control, or… he simply wasn’t afraid of Divine Phoenix Sect’s fury at all.
The various elders and disciples of Divine Phoenix Sect all revealed the expression of anger. A few core disciples were already on the verge of exploding into a flight of rage; their fists clenched tightly, as they wished they could immediately rush up and fight Ye Xinghan to the death. Princess Snow was their jewel of Divine Phoenix Empire, the sacred goddess in everyone’s hearts. They definitely would not allow anyone to taint or lay a finger on her… even if it were laying a finger in terms of gaze and words!
“This bastard… He’s courting death!!” Feng Ximing’s hands clenched tightly, his finger joints making “pop pop” sounds. The other princes were also gnashing their teeth in anger… However, the identity of “Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master” caused them to not dare to act rashly at all, even though they were extremely furious… That was the Young Hall Master of a Sacred Ground! The future ruler of a Sacred Ground!
If they shed all pretenses of cordiality with this Ye Xinghan, that would undoubtedly be having a fallout with the entire Sun Moon Divine Hall! Even though Divine Phoenix Sect was the number one great sect of Profound Sky, they still didn’t have the courage to shed all pretenses with a Sacred Ground yet… Unless they are forced till their last straw.
Contrary to one’s expectations, Feng Hengkong instead had a calm expression. He said to Feng Xue’er: “Xue’er, this one is Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master Ye Xinghan. Even though he is lustful by nature and unbridled with woman, he can still be considered a seldom outstanding youth. Say hello to him.”
Feng Hengkong’s words, made it hard for people to make out the negative connotation, but this tone of extreme dullness, was already faintly revealing the fury hidden behind his endurance.
Feng Xue’er stood up, and lightly bowed: “Xue’er greets Young Hall Master Ye.”
Feng Xue’er’s voice was gentle like water, and misty as the cloud, making Ye Xinghan’s heart and soul surge from listening to it. He started at Feng Xue’er, and said with a grinning face: “Young Sis Xue’er is being too unfamiliar. The address of Young Hall Master Ye is both vapid and foreign, just call me Big Brother Ye. Young Sis Xue’er’s voice is like the voice of a goddess, more beautiful than anything I can imagine. Being known as the number one beauty of the Profound Sky, your visage must be more so incomparably gorgeous. I wonder if I can have the honor, to witness Young Sis Xue’er’s otherworldly charming looks.”
“Crack!”
A deep crack instantly appeared on the chair under Feng Ximing. He clenched his teeth tightly, and was just about to stand, but was pulled back by a huge hand right away. Feng Feiyan pressed him down, and said with a low voice: “Do not fly into a rage. How could Sect Master allow him to lay his finger on Xue’er in the slightest.”
Feng Ximing’s chest moved up and down, his eyes bloodshot, but he still suppressed his anger with great effort, enduring with effort and didn’t act up again.
Feng Xue’er replied with a gentle and calm voice: “Please forgive Xue’er for refusing. Xue’er’s looks are crude, and difficult to enter by Young Hall Master’s eyes.”
Ye Xinghan bursted into a loud laughter: “If this number one beauty of the world could also be called ‘crude’, then there wouldn’t be any woman that could be viewed in this world. Since Young Sis Xue’er isn’t willing… then that’s fine. This place is under the gaze of the masses; how can Young Sis Xue’er’s otherworldly charms be tainted by the gazes of a bunch of common folks. Going face to face with Young Sis Xue’er some other day, and appreciate you alone, wouldn’t that be more pleasant… Hahahaha!”
Amidst the wanton laughter, Ye Xinghan turned around, drew the two women toward him, as he walked toward his seat with undisciplined steps. However, after having seen Feng Xue’er’s fantastical figure that was as illusory as a goddess, he felt the two women as charming as flowers beside him were simply vulgar to the extreme, causing him to no longer have the desire to feel them up.
“This bastard… If he dares to harm Princess Snow, even if he is whatever Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master, this daddy will still fight him to the death!!” Feng Zhanyun’s hands clenched into fists, his eyes bloodshot as he fixedly stared at Ye Xinghan. That gaze, was akin to looking at an enemy who could not coexist under the same sky with him.
“Jasmine, how strong is this Ye Xinghan?” Yun Che asked in a quiet voice.
“Tyrant Profound Realm middle stage. He’s a being you absolutely cannot afford to offend! Even the two women beside him, are high ranked Thrones! You’ll have to pay quite the price if you want to defeat either of one of them.” Jasmine warned coldly: “The level of the Four Great Sacred Grounds, is not something the current you is qualified to touch. By all means, you better not overestimate your ability and seek your own death.”
Yun Che didn’t speak, his expression overcast.
The moment Ye Xinghan entered the seats, Ling Kun immediately moved over to him, and said with an extremely quiet voice: “Young Hall Master, so it seems your purpose for coming personally, is as expectedly this Princess Snow.”
Ye Xinghan’s palm inserted into the bosom clothing of the woman on his right, kneading wantonly, his eyes queer and obscene: “At the first glance of her, I already knew this name of number one beauty of Profound Sky was indeed well-deserved. Only today did this young master find out, that there would actually be such a perfect woman in this world. Just her silhouette and presence, was already enough to subdue this young master… Heh!”
“Seems like, Young Hall Master is resolute on this.” Ling Kun smiled faintly: “But it seems that Young Hall Master was a bit too hasty. At this Divine Phoenix Sect, Princess Snow can be considered the greatest taboo!”
“Too hasty? HAHAHAHA!” Ye Xinghan laughed wildly: “In the world of I, Ye Xinghan, there had never been such a phrase of too hasty! The woman I took a fancy for, they think they can stop me with just their Divine Phoenix Sect!?”
Ye Xinghan extended his slender finger, and gently stroked along the waist of the woman on his leg, as a dangerous smile emerged on his face: “Elder Ling, do you believe me… In no more than three days, this Princess Snow, will completely become my, Ye Xinghan’s, woman. Her body, her bloodline… would all forever belong to me, Ye Xinghan. Even if their Divine Phoenix Sect does not admit it, they’ll have to admit!”
Ling Kun’s eyelids jumped… Words coming from Ye Xinghan’s mouth, definitely wouldn’t be baseless words. Since he dares to say so, then he possessed definite assurance. He once again lowered his voice, and laughed along with him: “Young Hall Master’s words, I naturally believe them ten thousand times. Then, I’ll congratulate Young Hall Master ahead of time.”
Turning his eyes to the side, Ye Xinghan looked at Ling Kun: “That woman with the ‘Nine Profound Exquisite body’… It can’t be that Elder Ling has forgotten, right?”
“Heh, how could this old man forgot about this matter. However… the one and half kilos of Purple Veined Divine Crystal, I wonder if Young Hall Master…”
“Don’t worry, the legendary Nine Profound Exquisite Body… Let alone one and half kilos of Purple Veined Divine Crystal, even fifteen kilos would be worth it! However, Elder Ling should also know, this Purple Veined Divine Crystal is too hard to find, and is also often consumed ordinarily. In these two years, bit by bit, this young master had also only saved up one kilogram.”
Ye Xinghan took out a spatial ring glinting with a purple light: “In here, is one kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystal. I wonder, how much information of that woman can I get with this kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals?”
Chapter 427 - Supreme Ocean Palace: Ji Qianrou
Ling Kun received the ring. After sweeping a glance at the things inside, his eyes flashed with an unconcealable hint of excitement. He didn’t return the spatial ring to Ye Xinghan and instead put it away with a smile: “Young Hall Master is indeed straightforward, looks like this old man calling Young Hall Master to do such a transaction was indeed a choice that couldn’t be more right.. That woman has just turned nineteen this year, and is in Blue Wind Nation.”
“Blue Wind?” Ye Xinghan revealed astonishment, then snorted faintly: “That tiny little place where one would feel as though they were lowering their status if they went there, is actually able to produce one who possess the godly body of legends, ‘Nine Profound Exquisite Body’? Elder Ling, are you certain that it was the ‘Nine Profound Exquisite Body’?”
Ye Xinghan’s last sentence had a distinct hint of a warning overtone. Blue Wind Nation was an inferior land that regarded the Emperor Profound as its summit, making him completely unable to believe that it could have any relationship with the “Nine Profound Exquisite Body” that was difficult to find even once every ten thousand years. Ling Kun’s expression didn’t change at all as he said lowly: “If I wasn’t certain, even if I had more courage, I wouldn’t dare do this transaction with Young Hall Master. If Young Hall Master uses this Nine Profound Exquisite Body as a incubator, it is inevitable that your cultivation would increase by bounds! In comparison, an insignificant one and a half kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals cannot be said to be anything.”
Ye Xinghan restrained his expression as he chuckled: “Having done so many deals with Elder Ling, I’m obviously extremely relieved by Elder Ling’s words. I will slowly gather the other half kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals. When that time comes, Elder Ling must not disappoint me.”
“Ha! When that time comes, Young Hall Master should just wait to get ahold of a great surprise!” Ling Kun said with narrowed eyes. He didn’t say that the woman who possessed the Nine Profound Exquisite Body was one whose beauty was no less inferior to that of Princess Snow. Even though it would greatly increase the cost of his bargaining chip, it would easily make Ye Xinghan immediately pay close attention to Blue Wind Nation’s number one beauty, Xia Qingyue. If that happened, he would lose half a kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals.
Seated near an unremarkable corner was an unremarkably dressed person who coldly gazed at Ye Xinghan’s back figure. Both of his hands slowly tightened as words brimming with deep-rooted hatred came out between his gritted teeth: “Sun… Moon… Divine… Hall…”
Heavenly Mighty Sword Region and Sun Moon Divine Hall had arrived, but Absolute Monarch Sanctuary and Supreme Ocean Palace still had yet to come. Feng Hengkong didn’t seem to have been affected by Ye Xinghan’s arrogance. He serenely sat down, and glanced at the time again. There were still several tens of breaths left until the start of the ranking tournament.
At the moment, a gently breeze suddenly blew over, bringing along the faint aroma of flowers that made anyone who scented it feel intoxicated. Suddenly, the fluttering of many flower petals that came from who knows where, suddenly appeared above the arena. Whether the petals were pure white, captivating red, or gloriously yellow… they danced, filling the sky with extreme beauty.
“It smells so good…”
“Did some goddess arrive?”
“It must be a goddess from the Sacred Grounds that have come… I’m too lucky today, not only have I seen Princess Snow, I even have the chance to see the grace of a fairy from the Sacred Grounds!”
Seeing the sky filled with dancing petals and the touching fragrance of flowers, every man in the audience became excited as their scorching gazes looked up above. The floating petals began to become more and more crowded together, as the fragrance also became more and more rich and intoxicating. Suddenly, a huge ball of petals extravagantly bursted open in mid air. Under the enormous rain of flower petals, an endlessly charming silhouette emerged.
This was a man handsome and pretty to an extreme degree. A suit of snow-white attire, his black hair was like ink, the color of his face fair like jade, his facial features was as if they had been carved out by an artist, delicate beyond compare. His brows were as slender as the new moon, slightly bent and raised on one end; his eyes were like the cherry blossom, and the fluid gaze like a young girl’s stirred within. Everyone below raised their head up high, and looked at this man who was slowly floating down with endless petals in a stupefied manner. No matter men or women, all of their hearts birthed an feeling of being ashamed of their inferiority.
“What an elegant and eminently handsome man!” Yun Che couldn’t help but to exclaim, and at the same time silently added in his heart: “Almost catching up to me.”
The moment Ye Xinghan and Ling Kun saw this man emerging, the expressions on their faces simultaneously changed… But it definitely was neither shock nor fear, and they were instead showing an expression of extreme distress. Ling Kun roared with a low voice: “F*ck! Why is it this guy!”
The moment Feng Hengkong saw the flower petal rain down as far as one’s eyes could see, he had already stared blankly for a bit. As the snow-white figure appeared amidst the flower petals, Feng Hengkong… this dignified Divine Phoenix Emperor, Sect Master of Divine Phoenix Sect, actually quivered from his entire body, as his pupils even contracted for a split second. He hastily roared: “Ximing… go… go welcome him in our stead.”
Before Feng Ximing had the chance to respond, the man’s gaze had already fell upon Feng Hengkong’s body. Instantly, his slender and curved brows stuck up on their ends even more. His fluid glance flowed, his hands covered his mouth, as he revealed an… overbearingly flirtatious smile. From his mouth, a tender and gentle voice came out: “Little Kongkong, this one has finally met you again. Not being able to meet you for a hundred years, this one has missed you to death, you know… Have you missed this one?”
………………
………………
The entire arena instantly became so quiet that a needle falling could be heard. Everyone without exception were flabbergasted, as their eyes and jaws fell to the ground.
This this this this… this person…
Just was he a man… or a woman… Or was he half man half woman… Or was he neither a man nor a woman…
This expression… this posture… these eyes and brows… this voice… and referring to themselves with third person… wait! The “Little Kongkong” he was saying… could it be…
Could it be he was calling… Phoenix Sect Master Feng Hengkong!?
Holy shit!!
Feng Hengkong was already about to find a place to hastily hide himself, but a “Little Kongkong” dropped out of the sky. This made the Phoenix Sect Master, who didn’t have a change of expression under Ye Xinghan’s insolence, shiver from his entire body, his expressions convulsing as he nearly sprayed out a mouthful of old blood on the spot.
Feng Ximing hastily greeted up with great anxiety, as he spoke in a respectful manner: “Junior Divine Phoenix Prince, Feng Ximing, greets… Senior Ji. Welcome to the Divine Phoenix Empire, Senior Ji, your seat has already been prepared. I respectfully ask Senior Ji to enter the seats.”
“Yah!” Ji Qianrou’s coquettish eyes as if waves of water, measuring up Feng Ximing from head to toe. That gaze as gentle as water, made Feng Ximing’s entire body feel numb. With his waist swinging, he walked toward Feng Zhiming with extreme amorousity, as he began to giggle tenderly: “So it was actually Little Mingming, no wonder you are so handsome, almost catching up to my Little Kongkong. When this one saw you last, you were still a two or three years old little baby. In the blink of an eye, you’ve actually grown so much. Come, let this one feel you up, and see if you’ve gotten more robust.”
As Ji Qianrou walked, his soft waist turned like a dancing water snake, the two halves of his hips swung left and right. If he was a woman, that definitely must be a scenery that made one unable to take their eyes away, and even sprout out blood…
But now, all the men only felt their stomach turning.
This was someone of the Sacred Grounds?
Was this really someone of the Sacred Grounds!?
Before Feng Ximing was even able to regain his senses, his hand was already taken up by Ji Qianrou and gently stroked in his palms: “Little Mingming’s skin really is so smooth, this one likes the feeling of smooth skin the most. Little Mingming needs to keep maintaining this, okay…”
As if just waking up from a dream, Feng Ximing retracted his hand like a lightning bolt. His body retreated non-stop, as he felt his heart cramping and a thick layer of goosebumps rose up on his entire body… Especially the hand that was touched by Ji Qianrou; it was simply like tens of millions of ants were crawling on it, causing him to wish dearly that he could immediately chop his entire hand off.
He finally understood why his royal father who did not dread heaven and earth would reveal a terrified expression the moment he heard the name “Ji Qianrou”, lest that he was unable to hide in time. Cold sweat drenched his forehead, as he said in an extremely sorry state: “S-S-Se-Senior Ji, the Ranking Tournament is a-a-a-about to start, I ask Senior Ji to e-enter the seats.”
Such a simple sentence, Feng Ximing couldn’t help but to speak it stutteringly and with incoherence. Ji Qianrou kneaded his fingers, as he said flirtatiously: “Little Mingming, what are you being so hurried for. This one hasn’t given Little Kongkong a deeply affectionate hug… Little Kongkong, this one has already come, why aren’t you rushing up yet? Could it be in these hundred years, you didn’t miss this one at all?”
Feng Hengkong’s entire body trembled, as his neck even grew thicker by two sizes from stifling himself. He finally couldn’t endure any longer, and roared angrily: “Ji Qianrou! If you dare to babble nonsense like this again, We… We… We will throw you out!”
To be able to make the dignified Phoenix Sect Master lose his control and act up under the eyes of everyone, Ji Qianrou was probably the only one in Profound Sky Continent who could.
Facing the berserk Feng Hengkong, not only did Ji Qianrou not panic at all, he instead laughed tenderly again: “Hehehehe, you are shy again. Little Kongkong really hasn’t changed from before. Alright alright, this one will just comply with you. After this Ranking Tournament is finished, you’ll have to properly treat this one to drink, okay… Little Mingming can also come too~.”
After he finished speaking, with a twist of his waist, Ji Qianrou walked toward his seat gracefully and delicately.
Feng Hengkong: “~!#$%…”
Feng Hengkong sat down at once, his forehead fully covered with cold sweat. At this time, he suddenly felt the Feng Xue’er on his side was currently looking at him with an extremely strange gaze. His eyes stared wide, his expression instantly became somewhat frantic, as hastily explained: “Xue’er, it’s definitely not what you think. That Ji Qianrou, he’s just a lunatic, Xue’er does not need to mind him.”
“I know, royal father.” Feng Xue’er nodded, then began to lightly laugh: “Little Kongkong… Hehe, so royal father’s name can actually be so cute too.”
Feng Hengkong: “￥x%$#(/^%$##$%〇+#…”
“So… this is the rumored witch… ah no, transvestite?” Feng Zhanyun almost fell onto his knees. Their Divine Phoenix Sect’s Sect Master, was actually teased by a man to the point of going mad on the spot… He felt that his outlook of the world was nearly crumbling.
“This person… isn’t simple.” Propping his chin, Yun Che muttered as if deep in thought.
“Jasmine, what is this person’s cultivation?”
“Late stage Tyrant Profound… A high level Tyrant to the letter! Also the kind of level that you absolutely cannot offend!” Jasmine said indifferently.
Supreme Ocean Palace’s seat was precisely to the right side of Sun Moon Divine Hall. After Ji Qianrou sat down, the Ye Xinghan and Ling Kun to the side were both sitting upright and still; let alone greeting with words, it was like they hadn’t seen him at all. Ji Qianrou voluntarily moved closer, and said full of tender feelings: “Little Hanhan, we haven’t met in so many years, this one has missed you to death, you know. Have you missed this one?”
Ye Qinghan’s face convulsed, his chest undulated, as he stiffly forced out two words from the gap between his teeth: “Shut up!”
“Hmph!” Facing Ye Xinghan’s rough manner, Ji Qianrou spat, and poutingly turned his head away: “So nasty, all of you stinky men are the same, each one more unfeeling and heartless than the previous. This one can’t be bothered with you, hmph!”
The muscle on Ye Qinghan’s face spasmed to a great extent, but he finally let out a big breath of relief. But right away, this Ji Qianrou who claimed that he “can’t be bother with you” once again moved closer with the tenderness of soft water.
“Little Hanhan, do you really not want to pay me attention anymore? In these years, this one really has missed you, y’know.”
“Look, the current Little Kongkong is much more mature than a hundred years ago, and has a more manly feeling… He really is too enchanting. Compared to this kind of little fresh meat like Little Hanhan, as expected, this one still likes Little Kongkong’s type the most.”
“Aya, Little Hanhan, why have the women beside you grown more and more lacking. Look at this skin, so rough, much more lackluster compared to this one’s.”
“Little Hanhan…”
That tender and sweet voice made Ye Xinghan’s heart spasm, his limbs convulse, his meridians twitch… His entire body was spasming, simply in a living hell. If not for the fact that he couldn’t beat Ji Qianrou, and was also unwilling to conflict with this monster who could dismember someone’s corpse with a sweet smile, he really wanted to rip his head off and stick it up his ass.
“Elder Ling…” Ye Xinghan said gnawing his teeth: “Three pieces of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals… switch seats with this Young Master!”
A row of cold sweat instantly dripped down Ling Kun’s forehead, as he said hastily: “This… this… cough cough, this isn’t a problem of Heaven Crystals or Divine Crystals. This old man is already old, can’t bear too much hardships, and still want to live a few years longer…””
Ye Xinghan: “…”
Author’s Note: 【After writing this chapter, my stomach suddenly felt inexplicably uncomfortable. Let this one go release and mediate a little…】
Chapter 428 - Change of Match Schedule
The starting time of the ranking tournament had already arrived, yet Absolute Monarch Sanctuary’s seat was still empty. Feng Hengkong did not declare the start of the Ranking Tournament here and now, and instead stared at the sky above… If the other three Sacred Grounds came late, he could choose to not wait, but for Absolute Monarch Sanctuary, he had to wait.
Without making Feng Hengkong wait for too long, an aged yet peaceful voice, distantly came from the skies above.
“Sigh… This Gu has come late due to affairs that had to be taken care of, and has made everyone wait for a long time. I’m ashamed, extremely ashamed.”
The voice was illusory and lingering, as if it came from the end of the horizon. At the same time, a gentle yet boundless aura descended from the sky, enveloping the entire arena. This aura that was rich and dense to the extreme, made one instantly think of the ocean, the cosmos, the abyss… Endlessly vast, majestic without limit.
“Monarch!” In Yun Che’s mind, Jasmine’s voice that carried a slight hint of surprise came.
Yun Che’s mind instantly shook.
Monarch!? The person who has come, was a Monarch!?
Sacred Ground letting a Young Hall Master come, was already extremely unusual… But why would they actually send a Monarch!
In the Profound Sky Continent, Divine Profound Realm was a myth-like existence, rumored to be an illusory realm that humans simply could not reach. Sovereign Profound Realm, was then the highest peak of this world; a Monarch, was fully deserving as the greatest sovereign ruler in the entire Profound Sky Continent! And Monarchs, also only exist within the Sacred Grounds and Divine Phoenix Empire. Even in the Sacred Grounds and Divine Phoenix Empire, they were exceedingly rare.
At this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, Yun Che could be considered as having finally widened his horizon at last. Even though they belonged to the same continent, Divine Phoenix Empire and Blue Wind Empire were like two entirely different worlds. At Blue Wind Nation, Thrones were already the limit that could not be surpassed. But here, Thrones were all over the place, Overlords ran amok, and now even a Monarch had actually appeared!
A silhouette also slowly floated down from above. This was an elderly man in a light yellow robe with a horsetail whisk in hand. With white hair and brows, the air and disposition of a celestial, his face gentle, as though a taoist celestial who was about to ascend to the heavens.
When the other three Sacred Ground’s people came, Feng Hengkong only stood up to greet. But this time, Feng Hengkong directly left his seat, and greeted forward with hurried steps. Behind him, Feng Feiyan and the crowd of elders also left their seats and followed in succession.
Feng Hengkong came before the elderly man with quick steps, and said as he saluted respectfully: “Junior Feng Hengkong of Divine Phoenix Sect, greets Spiritual Master Gu Cang.”
Of the Four Great Sacred Grounds, Absolute Monarch was head. While the elderly man before him, was a being of Grand Elder rank at Absolute Monarch Sanctuary. Even the Saint Emperor would need to pay him some respect. And since always, the interactions and communication between Divine Phoenix Sect and Absolute Monarch Sanctuary had been the closest. Even though it wasn’t apparent, Divine Phoenix Sect indeed always had the intention to huddle close with the Absolute Monarch Sanctuary,
Spiritual Master Gu Cang didn’t have the slightest imposing manner nor arrogance as a Grand Elder of a Sacred Ground. With a swing of his horsetail brush, he returned a salutations and said while laughing: “This Gu has arrived late for reasons, I have truly committed offense, and I hope Phoenix Sect Master is magnanimous in forgiveness.”
Feng Hengkong said: “What are you saying, Spiritual Master Gucang. Your elderly grace coming personally, is already the greatest honor of our Divine Phoenix Sect… Oh? Junior recalls that Spiritual Master Gu Cang ought to have brought a disciple along, why is it that…”
“Haha.” Spiritual Master Gu Cang laughed lightly: “This Gu indeed had come bringing a disciple, only for him to witness the Ranking Tournament and explore within the Primordial Profound Ark to learn through experience. I hadn’t expected, that he had a chance encounter with an acquainted person of olden days in this Divine Phoenix City, so he rushed this old man to come by myself, hahahaha.”
“So that’s how it was. To able to be taken in by Spiritual Master Gu Cang as the last disciple, your honored disciple must possess an extraordinary aptitude. Spiritual Master Gu Cang, please.” Feng Hengkong extended his hand, gesturing at Absolute Monarch Sanctuary’s seat.
As Gu Cang entered his seat, Ling Kun, Ye Xinghan and even Ji Qianrou all stood up, and respectfully conducted a rite for juniors toward seniors in dead seriousness. This action, invoked Yun Che’s thoughts. Spiritual Master Gu Cang’s status at Absolute Monarch Sanctuary, could be somewhat deduced from this.
Everyone of the Four Great Sacred Grounds were also all present now, as the site had also become entirely silent. It was finally time for this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament to begin.
Following a meaningful glance from Feng Hengkong, the Great Phoenix Elder Feng Feiyan took off into the air, and flew until he reached the arena’s center. An awe-inspiring and resonate phoenix cry exuded from his body. Following that, flames that surged to the skies explosively burned up, and shot up to until over one hundred meters in height, making everyone’s gaze fixedly focus onto him without exception.
Feng Feiyan looked in all four directions, as he spoke in a loud and clear voice: “This humble one is Divine Phoenix Sect’s Head Elder, Feng Feiyan, and it is an honor to meet heroes and young geniuses from all over the world. I represent Divine Phoenix Sect, and I thank all of the friends from faraway lands for visiting Phoenix City. This session, is the thirty-ninth session Ranking Tournament of our Profound Sky Seven Nations, and will be hosted in its entirety by I, Feng Feiyan, and witnessed by the honored guests of the Four Sacred Grounds! Held once every twenty five years, the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, is a battle for our Profound Sky Seven Nations’ young prodigies to contest in profound strength, spread their name through Profound Sky, and promote the prestige of their nations…”
“Wah! It’s actually personally hosted by the Great Elder. Hm? That’s odd! Why would it be hosted by Great Elder?” Feng Zhanyun said with a suprised expression. Clearly, he didn’t know that Great Elder would personally host this Ranking Tournament beforehand. Even if someone told him beforehand, he probably wouldn’t have believed it. Because in the past, the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was at most hosted by a low rank Elder.
“Could it be that there is something special about this Ranking Tournament?” Feng Zhanyun said in a low voice.
Other than the Grand Generations and Princess Snow, Feng Feiyan’s status in Divine Phoenix Sect, was almost second to only Feng Hengkong. Even Crown Prince Feng Ximing, would need to act very respectfully in front of him. Letting him personally be the host of this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, made even the few from the Sacred Grounds revealed slight surprise. The audiences in the seating area more so held their breaths, and looked at Feng Feiyan in an respectful and admiring manner. The voice resounding beside their ears, every word was thunderous.
The Great Elder personally as host, was an entirely different concept from normal elders or palace masters as host. Everyone had faintly noticed something odd from within. Sure enough, after Feng Feiyan finished reading the formal speech, hs suddenly looked up as his finger pointed toward the sky above: “Everyone please look up. That’s right, this enormous shadow blotting out the sky and sun, is precisely that Primordial Profound Ark which appears every three hundred years which harbors unknown mysteries!”
“The Primordial Profound Ark had always appeared at my Divine Phoenix City’s skies, and throughout history, only us Divine Phoenix Empire possessed the right of exploration as well. But this time, Sect Master’s heart is generous and broad, and is willing to scale the Primordial Profound Ark with friends of the six nations, and share the mysteries of Primordial Profound Ark. In this session’s Ranking Tournament, the top three in rankings may choose three people each to explore the Primordial Profound Ark together.
Even though it was top three in rankings, everyone knew that the first would unquestionably be Divine Phoenix Sect. Therefore, people of the six nations with the fortune to enter the Primordial Profound Ark, would at most be six people from two nations.
“However,” Feng Feiyan’s tone suddenly shifted, as he said: “Just a few days ago, my sect suddenly noticed that the profound seal at Primordial Profound Ark’s main doorway had actually loosened ahead of time, which also means that the Profound Ark’s main doorway would open four days earlier than expected!”
“Hm?” The brows of all of the people from Sacred Grounds shifted.
“Four days in advance? Which is to say, Primordial Profound Ark will open as soon as tomorrow?” Ye Xinghan said in a low voice.
“That should be so… No wonder this Feng Feiyan was made to personally host this Ranking Tournament. There was indeed unforeseen matter.” Ling Kun also spoke in a low voice: “If my guesses are correct, this Ranking Tournament, will be concluded as soon as possible.”
Feng Feiyan continued: “My sect had initially planned to start to explore the Primordial Profound Ark on the second day after Ranking Tournament’s conclusion, yet this time, the Primordial Profound Ark will open tomorrow in advance! The Primordial Profound Ark would only open for twenty four hours every single time. Twenty four hours in an entire three hundred years, naturally, no time can be wasted! But the words spoken by my Divine Phoenix Sect, are of enormous weight, and we will absolutely not go back on them. Therefore, in order to explore the Primordial Profound Ark tomorrow in collaboration, this session of Ranking Tournament’s match schedule, will also undoubtedly be compressed to a great degree… The top three, would need to be decided by today!”
Clamor~~~~
The moment Feng Feiyan’s words were spoken, the entire arena became turbulent. They all understood the words, the Primordial Profound Ark would open ahead of time… And at the same time, this session of Ranking Tournament would be compressed into a single day… Which meant that it was to be concluded today!
The match schedule would at least last for five days for every Ranking Tournament in the past, without any exception. Between the contending seventy tip-top young experts coming from the seven nations, every single round would need to be fought in round robin. Previously, even five days of matches would be scheduled fully, and situations of the tournament’s schedule extension would often happen. In the time as short as a day, it simply could not be done.
The expressions of those participants, as well as each nation’s Emperor and hegemons all changed greatly… Seven Nation Ranking tournament was a great matter of an entire country; the results of the rankings, were connected to the position and prestige of the next twenty five years of a nation. For this Ranking Tournament, every single nation could prepare with all their might several years ahead of time, and rare treasures accumulated for over twenty years would all be used without being stingy in the least… For those young participants, this Ranking Tournament was more so the highest stage for them to perform, the greatest chance to spread their name throughout the world! If the previously five days of match schedule were really to be condensed into a day… The time for them to perform, would unquestionably be compressed by an entire eighty percent!
This kind of discrepancy, how could they be willing and satisfied?
And the spectators numbering more than three million who obtained the qualification to enter the arena through great pain, they originally would have enjoyed an entire five days of the pinnacle’s battle, yet all of a sudden only one day was left, they naturally were extremely unthrilled as well.
“No wonder the Great Elder was needed to personally host.” Yun Che muttered to himself in a low voice: “So it was to suppress the situation that may possibly happen with the awe of the Great Elder. If the match schedule is shrunk down to one day…” As he muttered till here, his brows suddenly twitched as a feeling that was anything but reassuring emerged in his heart.
The clamor suddenly exploding in the arena was entirely within Divine Phoenix Sect’s expectations. Feng Feiyan’s expression did not change, as his voice abruptly became louder by some: “Even though the match schedule is forced to be compressed, there is no need for anyone to worry. This Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, would still be absolutely fair and square! So much that… it would be even more fair and square than the previous few dozen sessions! It will determine the ranking of strength of us Profound Sky Seven Nations in even less bias!”
Feng Feiyan’s words, made everyone reveal a stupefied expression… The match schedule being compressed from five days to one, yet it would be more fair?
Feng Feiyan continued: “The former sessions of Seven Nation Ranking Tournaments, seventy young prodigies battled in turns, contending against one another, and the end rankings were decided by the highest placement of each nation’s contenders. However, this kind of ranking style emphasizes the strength of apex profound practitioners. But in actuality, what could manifest a nation’s strength the most ought to be the overall strength of a nation’s participants. Thus, this session of Ranking Tournament, would cancel the individual matches, and change into team battles! In every single ranking match, every single profound practitioners of the two sides must all enter the stage!”
The arena was instantly filled with the sound of discussions, ceaselessly clamorous. Yun Che’s eyes stared wide, as he fixedly stared at Feng Feiyan whose expression was cold and stiff, and violently cursed:
F*ck!!
Chapter 429 - Seven Nation Ranking Tournament: Start
Feng Feiyan ignored the clamor and continued: “Even though it is a team battle, it would still similarly be able to display every single person’s strength! While also being able to fairly examine a nation’s young generation’s comprehensive level! At the same time, it would also adhere to the condition of compressing the competition schedule to a maximum degree, without missing any bit of fairness! If we do it thusly, do our friends from the six nations have any objections? If there are any objections, feel free to speak up.”
Feng Feiyan faced the six nations… Accurately speaking, he faced the seating area of the five nations with a blank face and calm voice.
If they were confronted with such a drastic change of schedule, if the one before their eyes was a mere ordinary elder from Divine Phoenix Sect, as emperor and hegemon level figures of the six nations, they might indeed object.
But currently, the person talking to them was actually Divine Phoenix Sect’s Great Elder! One whose rank was higher than a Divine Phoenix Prince! Even if all six nation’s emperors were added up together, his might, power, and name also did not fall short. Beneath Feng Feiyan’s gaze, the six nation’s emperors and hegemons all felt as though an iron plate was pressing down on their chest, even breathing was extremely difficult. How could they possible dare to say anything? About this matter, it was evident that Divine Phoenix Sect had already one-sidedly made the decision, so how could they dare not agree? They all quickly nodded, expressing their agreement.
“Very good!” Feng Feiyan nodded: “Since our friends from the six nations don’t have any objections, then this year’s ranking tournament competition shall be conducted thusly. The rules of the team battles are basically the same as individual battles, and are similarly round robin. Every nation will battle with everyone from another nation and will advance through the ranking tournament through wins! Then, the two victorious nations will then fight one another to advance, winner will be placed in front. In order to cut down the tournament schedule and lighten the consumption of every nation’s participating profound practitioners, our Divine Phoenix Sect will not be participating in the round robin matches. The final victor of the matches will then be able to fight our Divine Phoenix Sect’s profound practitioners. If they win, they will then be this year’s champion! In this way, within the round robin matches, every nation’s profound practitioners would only be required to fight five matches, for a total of sixteen matches! One day of time, is already enough.”
Feng Feiyan’s meaning was quite clear, Divine Phoenix Sect was not participating in the round robin, and would only fight with the strongest team of the six nations. For this point, Feng Feiyan didn’t ask whether or not the six nations had any objections, because it was basically not necessary. And no one from the six nations thought that this was not proper, or feel dissatisfied, because Divine Phoenix Sect’s level was one that the six other nations were fundamentally unable to contend against. With how terrifying Divine Phoenix Sect was, even if every profound practitioner from the six nations were added up, they would still be easily suppressed into a dog by a profound practitioner from Divine Phoenix Sect.
After so many Seven Nation Ranking Tournaments, in the other nations’ eyes, they were all in fact “Five Nation Ranking Tournaments”, because Divine Phoenix was too strong and Blue Wind was too weak. Every time they fought, it was always to determine the ranking of the five nations. If they placed second, it was equivalent to placing first. And if they placed sixth, it was the same as being a shameful dead last. They absolutely did not dare have the delusion that they could defeat Divine Phoenix Empire, but at the same time, they would never condescend themselves to being on par with Blue Wind Nation.
“As for the other rules of the match, I’m assuming that there is no need for me to waste time to say what’s more than necessary…” Feng Feiyan swept his gaze around as his tranquil gaze brought along a kind of intangible imposingness… The Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was the most distinguished event for Profound Sky Continent’s profound practitioning world. Every session was paid the greatest attention to. And such an unprecedented great change in schedule that hadn’t even been informed beforehand, had actually just been decided on the spot with a few words. No one dared to object, and no one dared to reveal any discontentment.
This was Divine Phoenix Sect’s completely overwhelming deterrence.
“Eyoyo~, this one had expected to see many days of matches, and now it only need a single day to be finished… This one’s mood suddenly became so cheerful mhmnn… Little Hanhan, is your mood the same as this one?” Ji Qianrou narrowed his cherry flower eyes, and sent a flirtatious glance toward Ye Xinghan.
Ye Xinghan’s face distorted, as he said with a downcast voice: “Ji Qianrou! If you dare to speak with this young master again, this young master will kill you!”
“Yoh…” As if frightened, Ji Qianrou shrunk his neck down, and then, the expression in his gaze became both innocent and grievant from being wronged: “Little Hanhan, why would you so suddenly frightened at this one; you almost scared me stiff. If you suddenly frighten this one again, this one will get angry okay~. Once this one becomes angry, maybe he would become a little devious, and cause you to no longer have any women to play with at night~.”
With a tender and soft tone that was about to weep, Ji Qianrou shot a slight glance with timid eyes at the two bewitching women glued by Ye Xinghan left and right side. Instantly, the two’s body trembled at the same time, their pupils expanded as they projected an immensely deep fear… Because the moment they were touched by his gaze, that kind of terrifying feeling… was as though their throats were being held within the poisonous fangs of a king cobra.
“You…” Ye Xinghan knew the terror of this monster better than anyone else. Sealing up his mouth, he didn’t speak anymore.
‘I declare that Profound Sky Continent’s thirty-ninth Seven Nation Ranking Tournament has officially begun!”
Feng Feiyan’s voice resounded through the arena, and also declared the start of this session’s Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. With a swing of his arm, a stroke of firelight flickered past. Instantly, an enormous flame profound stone was erected in the center of the arena. Looking at this profound stone, Yun Che who had the experience of Blue Wind Ranking Tournament, instantly understood what it was used for.
Yun Che extended his arms, and glanced at his palm. One after another of sceneries at Heavenly Sword Villa back then emerged in his mind. He muttered to himself in resentment: “Looks like, I’ll be mocked by the crowd again! God damn, my fate was decided to be mocked at by crowds again and again from the moment I was born!”
In every single session’s Blue Wind Ranking Tournament, the profound strength assessment would always be an essential process. Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was the same. Half of the Profound Strength Assessment was to show off every single participant’s profound strength level… After all, profound strength level basically divided one’s true strength. The other half, was to assess one’s age.
“In all previous sessions of Ranking Tournaments, the participating profound practitioner’s age cannot be more than twenty five years old. If there are cases of excess age, the right to participate will be immediately taken back.” Feng Feiyan slowly descended from the skies, landed by the Profound Assessment Stone’s side, and said in a loud voice: “Right now, I will be using the last session of Seven Nation Ranking Tournament’s ranking results as order, and read out the name of the Seven Nations. Every nation’s participants ought to enter the Phoenix Stage with the participant emblem, declare their names, then take the assessment on profound strength and age.
“Navy Tide Nation!”
Feng Feiyan said that the ranking of the last Seven Nation Ranking Tournament’s placements were to be announced as order, but the first name he called, was the second place nation in the last session. On the surface, this may seem to be modestly putting Divine Phoenix Sect as the last one to enter the stage appropriate of a host. But the unspoken words, how couldn’t it be that Divine Phoenix Empire was entirely disdainful in being mentioned on equal terms as the other six nations?
In the last Ranking Tournament, Navy Tide placed second, first of the six nations. The moment the three words ‘Navy Tide Nation’ fell, a ball of cold profound light suddenly shone at Navy Tide Nation’s seating area, and drew two enormous words of “Navy Tide” in the skies above. Seven young men and three young women simultaneously took off into the air, and landed onto the Phoenix Stage in the time the corner of their clothes fluttered. Instantly, a wave of cold energy undulated outwards like water ripples from above the Phoenix Stage.
Navy Tide Nation was located to the extreme north of Profound Sky, with cold skies and frozen lands all years round. And because of that, the profound practitioners over there basically all cultivate ice attribute profound arts. Of the ten youths, the oldest looked to be around twenty five, the youngest looked to have just reached twenty. The moment they entered the stage, the audiences behind the Navy Tide’s seating area instantly exploded like hot oil on a pan, roaring out waves of voices that shook the heaven and earth.
“Navy Tide! Navy Tide! Navy Tide!!”
“Go Navy Tide! Crush the five nations!!”
“Wah! That’s the ‘Flower Viewing Prince’, Han Ruyu! Number one of Navy Tide Ranking Tournament for two times… As expected, he came!”
“Waaaaaaah… It’s Flower Viewing Prince… my idol… Ah!! So handsome! I’m about to faint…” A few maniacally infatuated girls screams while covering their face.
The enormous waves of clamor were like the rolling thunder, quaking to the point of making Yun Che’s eardrums quiver. Jasmine’s voice came from the side of his ear: “Seven late stage Sky Profound, and two half-step Emperor Profound… And one early stage Emperor Profound. Similarly of the same younger generation and in the same piece of continent, in comparison, Blue Wind Nation really is much too inferior!”
“That’s something that can not be helped either.” Yun Che said with indifference: “Blue Wind Nation is the smallest, and also has the shortest history. Their accumulation is truly too shallow, so naturally there would be an enormous difference that cannot be filled up.”
“Feng Wuhui of Navy Tide Nation’s Snow Mountain Sect, has come forth to contend!”
The first young profound practitioner came forth, revealed his participant emblem while revealing his name and sect in a lofty manner. Then, he took a step forward, stood in front of Feng Feiyan, and pressed onto the Profound Assessment Stone with his palm.
The Profound Assessment Stone flashed with a radiance, and following after, his physical age and profound strength were clearly displayed.
Twenty three years old, Sky Profound Realm level eight.
The audiences of Navy Tide Nation instantly uttered out a cheer that jolted the skies. Being able to achieve such a profound strength level was above average even in the most apex domain of the six nations.
Navy Tide Nation’s profound practitioners came forth in succession, their profound strength level wasn’t in the slightest different than what Jasmine had said… Seven late stage Sky Profounds, and two half-step Emperor Profounds. And at this time, the last profound practitioner of Navy Tide finally came forward.
The other nine profound practitioners all had lofty faces, only this person had on a calm expression from beginning to end, with a smile faintly hidden within. He looked to be extraordinarily young; his face was like white jade, his lips like vermilion cinnabar, and was a to-the-letter handsome man. In between his brows, there even carried a hint of eccentric aura enough to make women easily drown within it. He walked forward slowly and leisurely as if wandering in a yard. As he took his first step, Navy Tide’s audience seats had already thoroughly exploded. Various kinds of exaggerated shouts… Especially the screams from women, nearly ripped apart the Phoenix Stage.
“Flower Viewing Prince? The hell is that?” Yun Che propped his chin as he heard such a title from the female’s screams… This title, was simply conventional and lame to the point of being unbearable.
“This person is called Han Ruyu, rumored to be the current number one of Navy Tide’s younger generation. Attending Navy Tide Ranking Tournament twice at age of seventeen and twenty, he got first in both times. His prestige at Navy Tide Nation could be said as the sun in the sky, and even Navy Tide Nation’s ruler receives him as guest of highest honor… Heh, even to the point where I had heard of his name.” Feng Zhanyun curled the corner of his lips, as he said with great disdain: “He’s quite awe-inspiring at Navy Tide Nation, but if he comes to my Divine Phoenix Sect, he’d only be so much, and probably can’t be considered as reaching the average.”
With a smile on his face, Han Ruyu extended his white jade like hand and pressed onto the Assessment Stone…
Twenty three years old, Emperor Profound Realm level two!
WHOAAA!!!
The audiences of Navy Tide Nation went completely mad as the sounds of cheers turned from raging waves into the profound thunder of the ninth heaven, while the faces of other five nation’s profound practitioners all slightly changed.
“What… This time, Navy Tide Nation actually had a Throne!?”
“I had thought that our Throne this time would certainly shock the entire arena, but I didn’t expect that one would actually also appear in Navy Tide Nation! Looks like, if we go against Navy Tide Nation this time, it will be a tough battle again. However, we don’t have any reason to lose either!” Black Fiend Nation’s Emperor spoke in a overcast tone.
“Not bad!” Feng Hengkong, who had always been silent, nodded at this time: “Seems like this time, Navy Tide Nation finally improved by a bit.”
“Holy shit! He’s actually a Throne… Moreover, Emperor Profound Realm level two!” Feng Zhanyun had astonishment all over his face: “Thrones under twenty five years old could actually also appear in the insignificant six nations, tsk tsk, amazing, how rare. This kid called Han Ruyu, not just Navy Tide this time, he has spread his name throughout the six nations. The second place of this Ranking Tournament, may perhaps end up in Navy Tide Nation’s hands yet again.”
“Black Fiend Nation!”
Navy Tide Nation’s profound practitioners were done, yet they didn’t return to their seats, and instead directly entered Phoenix Stage’s exclusive match preparation area. Feng Feiyan’s shout once again sounded, as ten young profound practitioners, all wearing black attire, jumped onto the Phoenix Stage… This time, Black Fiend Nation’s audiences instantly exploded; the sound of screams they exuded wasn’t any weaker than Blue Tide Nation’s in the slightest.
“Wu Huihong of Black Fiend Nation’s Yin Hell Sect has come forth to contend!”
“Lü Haoyan of Black Fiend Nation’s Purple Fiend Isle has come forth to contend!”
…………
Navy Tide Nation, Black Fiend Nation, Grand Asura Nation, Sunflower Dew Nation, Divine Incense Nation… The five nations of Profound Sky went up the Phoenix Stage in the order of the last Seven Nation Ranking Tournament’s placements. In fifteen minutes of time, all of the five nation’s profound practitioners were finished with their assessment, and entered the match preparation area. What was left, were only the two extremes… Divine Phoenix Empire and Blue Wind Nation.
————————————
Author’s Note:
【Memo： Elementary Profound Realm —→ Nascent Profound Realm —→ True Profound Realm —→ Spirit Profound Realm —→ Earth Profound Realm —→ Sky Profound Realm —→ Emperor Profound Realm (Throne) —→ Tyrant Profound Realm (Overlord) —→ Sovereign Profound Realm (Monarch) —→ Divine Profound Realm (Profound God) —→—→—→—→—→。】
Chapter 430 - Group Mockery
Yun Che carefully looked at the ages and profound strength of the five nations’ young generation’s profound practitioners, then sighed in his heart. At this time, he was increasingly more and more aware of how great of a matter the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was, and why no one in Blue Wind Nation ever bothered to mention, or even be interested in it. It was practically a disgraceful taboo. From beginning to end, even though the combined strength of Navy Tide, Black Fiend, Grand Asura, Sunflower Dew, and Divine Incense’s profound practitioners were somewhat varied, the difference wasn’t too large. The previous ranking tournament’s number two, Navy Tide, had come with an early stage Throne, two half step Emperor Profounds, and seven late stage Sky Profounds this time. As for Divine Incense Nation, which had been placed only above Blue Wind in the previous session’s ranking tournament, last place of the five nations, they had brought a half step Emperor Profound, eight late stage Sky Profounds, and a mid stage Sky Profound… That kind of disparity truly couldn’t be said to be large at all. As long as luck was on their side, there was a possibility for any nation to place second in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament.
In comparison, only Blue Wind Nation was tragic beyond words.
Aside from Xia Qingyue, within Blue Wind Nation’s profound practitioners that were under twenty five years of age, not even an early stage Sky Profound Realm could be found.
Half step Emperor Profound was merely the peak of the those below twenty five years of age within the five nations, yet it was the peak of Blue Wind Nation’s entire profound practitioning world.
In fact, Navy Tide Nation and Black Fiend Nation had even individually brought out a Throne below twenty five!
What remained after the five nations, were Blue Wind Nation and Divine Phoenix Nation. Feng Feiyan swept a glance past the seating area, then said indifferently: “As everyone can see, it is not known why, but Blue Wind Nation is absent from this session’s Ranking Tournament, with not even a single sound of activity. Hmph, Blue Wind isn’t great in the profound anyway, so whether or not they participate in this ranking tournament has absolutely no influence on the results of the rankings. Instead, this will cut down the matches, which is better than ever.”
The seating area immediately burst into roars of laughter, everyone knew what sort of pitifully low and miserable existence Blue Wind Nation was within this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. The other six nations came to battle for prestige and glory, yet Blue Wind Nation… only came every time to fill in the Seven Nation number. And to this session, it seemed as though they didn’t even have the courage and face to server as a stopgap anymore.
Inside the arena, there were few Blue Wind citizens, but it didn’t mean that there were none. The words that came from the Great Phoenix Elder completely humiliated them. But they could only tighten their fists, clench their teeth, and silently endure this humiliation with no face to speak out.
“Tsk tsk, Blue Wind kid, there’s still time for you to press your tail between your legs and run away. With just that measly strength of yours, if you really were to go up… and you’re even going up there alone, let alone losing face, you’ll even lose your butt… hey! Shit!”
Before Feng Zhanyun had even finished speaking, the Yun Che beside him had already leapt up. After a few leaps, he directly dashed toward the Phoenix Stage.
“Wait! Who said Blue Wind Nation had no participants!!”
A thunderclap-like shout resounded through the arena. When the shout ended, Yun Che had already executed his last jump. Within everyone’s astonished gaze, he heavily landed on the Phoenix Stage as the ground beneath him vibrated with noise. He looked at Feng Feiyan with a calm yet proud expression and lifted his right hand to reveal the participant emblem imprinted with the words “Blue Wind”: “Yun Che of Blue Wind Nation has come forth to contend!”
“Ah!”
Feng Xue’er involuntarily let out a soft cry.
“Xue’er, what’s wrong?” Feng Hengkong turned his head around lightning quick, as he asked in astonishment.
“N… nothing.” Feng Xue’er shook her head, her voice slightly quivering: “It’s just that I was thinking about something earlier, and was somewhat absent-minded, then suddenly saw someone jump onto the Phoenix Stage… I was a bit startled… It’s really nothing.”
Even though Feng Hengkong still had some doubts, he didn’t inquire any further. At this time, Feng Xichen, who sat in the rear suddenly stood up, and suddenly exclaimed: “Royal father, that’s him… he’s that Yun Che!”
“He actually came.” Feng Ximing said lowly: “Looks like he still is a bit knowledgeable, since he knows that no matter where he runs, he’ll never be able to escape the palms of our hands.”
“That’s him?” Feng Hengkong’s gaze slightly converged as he said faintly: “Him daring to come here today can be considered to be a bit courageous. Don’t mind him, or else it’ll affect the ranking tournament. Since he came, he shouldn’t have the delusion of ever escaping.”
Feng Xue’er quietly listened in on their conversation, her mind a field of chaos.
Feng Lingyun…
Yun Che…
Big brother Yun… is Yun Che…
Not Feng Lingyun…
How… could this… be…
“Crap! How could it be him!!”
In a corner of the spectator seats, an extremely unremarkable person quivered a little with a face full of surprise when he saw Yun Che hop onto the Phoenix Stage. As soon as he finished exclaiming in his heart, a youth sitting to his right who looked to be around seventeen stood up rapidly with a swoosh. He was so excited that his entire face was thoroughly red, both arms trembled as he shouted: “Boss! As expected, you came. I just knew that you’ll come!! I didn’t come here in vain… I just knew that you wouldn’t not come!”
Seeing how this youth acted, excited to the point that he almost stopped breathing, he nudged the youth’s clothes and asked: “Hey, lil’ bro, you know this person? Could it be that you’re someone from Blue Wind Nation?”
“If course I know him!” That youth said with a face full of excitement: “He’s my boss, you know! The reason why I came here from so far away is just to watch his match!”
“He’s your boss? Shit, such a coincidence! He’s also my sworn big brother! The reason why I came here… uh, uh. Oh oh, it’s also to come watch his match!”
“Is that true?” The youth asked as he looked at him with a face full of suspicion.
“What’s your name?”
“Ling Jie! Ling Jie of Blue Wind Nation’s Heavenly Sword Villa!” The youth said with pride.
“Ling Jie? Who’s Ling Yun to you?”
“That’s my big bro… How do you know my big bro’s name?”
“Of course it was mentioned to me by Boss Yun.”
“You really know my boss? What a coincidence! Right, what’s your name? Which nation are you from?”
“Oh, my name’s Yan Xiaohua, no home no country. I can tell at the first glance that I’m older than you. You can call me Big Bro Hua, Boss Hua, Old Hua… Any is fine!”
“Yan Xiaohua? Why do you have such a feminine name!”
“Of course it’s because I’m born handsome and elegant, so my name gotta be a bit elegant too. At least it’s much better than your name without any skill involved.”
“Tch!”
Yun Che’s appearance, undoubtedly became the entire arena’s focal point. When the five nation’s profound practitioners entered the stage previously, what had sounded were heaven shaking cheers. But this time, it was the entire arena’s discussions and laughter… Cheers were the only thing lacking.
“The other participants all came flying over, yet he actually came leaping over… it couldn’t be that he hasn’t even reached the Sky Profound Realm, right?”
“You dumbass! He’s from Blue Wind Nation. Tsk tsk, Blue Wind Nation, you know. Don’t tell me that you’ve heard of someone below twenty five in Blue Wind Nation above the Sky Profound? This kind is at most in the Earth Profound Realm… I remember in the previous Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, that the highest level within Blue Wind Nation’s participants was also Earth Profound Realm… In fact, they even had those in the Spirit Profound Realm, hahahaha. It makes me laugh whenever I recall that.”
“Wah! Someone from Blue Wind Nation actually came? Divine Phoenix Sect didn’t even prepare Blue Wind Nation’s seats. Clearly, they didn’t even think that someone from Blue Wind Nation would come, yet this guy actually went up there by himself… Tsk tsk, profound strength at only the Earth Profound Realm. He’s not even at my level, is he that desperate to lose all his face?!”
“You must not know this. In Blue Wind Nation, being at the Earth Profound Realm under twenty five in Blue Wind Nation is already the highest existence. I heard that the instructors in their imperial family’s profound palace is only Spirit Profound Realm. Earth Profound Realms could even be a Palace Chief at a branch Profound Palace.”
“Shit! You serious? Then wouldn’t I become a main branch Palace Chief if I go there? Hahahaha… eh? How come only one person came up? Don’t tell me that Blue Wind Nation only brought one person?”
“Hahahaha… It’s simply funny enough to make one’s head fall off from laughing. Even if Blue Wind Nation came here, they should at least bring ten people, after all, the matches this time just happen to be team battles… This daddy’s gonna die from laughter.”
“It’s still good if they’ve come. With Blue Wind Nation here, this last place can’t be snatched by anyone.”
………………
………………
Inside the incomparably large arena, every corner was filled with the sounds of wanton laughter and ridicule. In front of one that was only at the Earth Profound Realm, yet was able to represent Blue Wind Nation in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, a kind of intangible “higher” form of superiority birthed within the hearts of every profound practitioner of the six nations. One after another, they looked at him with a kind of amused, pitying, and mocking gaze… so much that it seemed as though Yun Che was on trial.
Yun Che was too familiar with this kind of scene. Back then, in the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament when he represented Blue Wind Profound Palace, he, who had the lowest profound strength level was looked at with contempt and mockery by nearly everyone present. All kinds of voices and gazes spun all around him. It seemed as though this time was a repeat performance of what happened two years ago. Only, two years ago, all the sounds of taunting didn’t affect him in the slightest, and this time, it didn’t affect him at all either.
Within the arena, although there were very few profound practitioners from Blue Wind Nation, it didn’t mean that there were none. The reason why they came today was to watch Yun Che’s might. A month ago, when Yun Che left Blue Wind Imperial City for Divine Phoenix Empire, Cang Wanhe spread the news of Yun Che going to represent Blue Wind Nation in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament by himself to the practitioning world the very next day. He had originally told Yun Che that if Blue Wind’s profound practitioners were to know that he was going to participate in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, it might even suddenly ignite hope… hope that would wipe away their previous disgrace! Because Yun Che had created miracle after impossible miracles in Blue Wind Nation! He had even become a legendary figure in the hearts of Blue Wind profound practitioners.
Because if he came represent Blue Wind Nation in this competition, he would definitely amaze the world and wipe away all their previous shame!
In this one month, many Blue Wind profound practitioners were filled with hope and zeal, coming to Divine Phoenix Empire from a great distance… Even though the difference between Blue Wind profound practitioners and the other six nations within the arena was large, it was not known how many more had come compared to the previous session.
Faced with the entire audience’s laughter and mockery, those sparse and scattered Blue Wind profound practitioners looked at Yun Che. Some clenched their fists, some gritted inwardly, and some sneered, waiting for Yun Che to beat them to a pulp. Some couldn’t endure it any longer as they roared in a loud voice: “Shut the hell up! Not only is our Blue Wind Nation’s Yun Che the number one of the young generation, he’s number one of the entire profound practitioning world… Even though he is only at the Earth Profound Realm, he could still fight against an Emperor Profound!”
“Earth Profound Realm… fight an Emperor Profound? BWAHAHAHA!!” It was as if the surrounding audience heard the funniest joke in the world as they all erupted in wild laughter: “Did this kid forget to take his medicine when he left home? Earth Profound fight an Emperor Profound? Hahahahaha…”
The Blue Wind profound practitioner who spoke was so mad that his face became thoroughly red. His companion pulled him in place and shook his head: “Don’t mind them! Wait until Yun Che reveals his might, they’ll naturally all shut their mouths… Yun Che! This time… you have to seize glory for our Blue Wind in front of the entire world’s outstanding warlords!!”
The red clothed man split the crowd apart and walked over. His steps were slow and leisurely, and his posture was filled with pride. A faint smile which contained a hint of disdain and ridicule hung on the corner of his lips, as though he was an emperor overlooking the many lives below him. His front chest slightly straightened, and that phoenix emblem glistened brilliantly, announcing his identity to everyone.
As practitioners who were able to make a long trip from the six nations to spectate the match, which one of them wouldn’t be high-leveled individuals with huge pride and arrogance? However, facing this disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect, what they felt was actually an incomparably huge sense of pressure… Although the six nations and the Divine Phoenix Empire were referred to as the seven nations, even if the six nations combined their forces, it would still be impossible for them to shake the Divine Phoenix Empire the least bit. Every year, they had to give a huge amount of tributes to the Divine Phoenix Empire, and they never dared to stop doing so. To make it sound uglier, when the six nations were in front of the Divine Phoenix Empire, they would be similar to affiliated states. In front of the overwhelming power of the Divine Phoenix Empire, no matter if they were individuals with great strength and authority in the political or profound realm, when they were in the Divine Phoenix Empire, they would all have to clench their buttocks and act courteously.
And the Divine Phoenix Sect, was the absolute overlord of the entire Divine Phoenix Empire! In the eyes of the continent’s profound practitioners, the Divine Phoenix Sect, was more similar to a group which consisted of people that came from another plane and world.
Moreover, this was even the Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory!
Hence, when they faced the incomparably presumptuous and ear-piercing mockery from this Divine Phoenix Sect disciple, these young practitioners who held a bundle of pride and arrogance in their own nations, dared to be furious, however, they did not dare to speak them out loud. In the eyes they were using to look towards the Phoenix disciple was thirty percent anger, and seventy percent fear.
These types of gazes, and the feeling of a tiger herding sheeps, made the Phoenix disciple feel even more prideful and complacent. His voice also became even more ear-piercing. “You little ones from these six nations, it’s best that you scram from here as soon as possible. The Black Moon Headquarters isn’t a place worthy for you low-class people to enter. By piling yourselves here, you’re only going to dirty the ground here, and taint the air here.”
Yun Che’s brows furrowed fiercely… He had seen many arrogant people, however, it was still the first time he had seen someone who would unhesitantly humiliate the ones present here, and all of the profound practitioners of the six nations, with such an arrogant tone. He really wondered if this Phoenix disciple was initially an arrogant prick himself, or if all of the Phoenix disciples would all act the same way in front of profound practitioners of other nations.
When these words of his fell, the profound practitioners of the six nations present, undoubtedly became even more furious, and in the end, a young profound practitioner who did not even look to be twenty years old, could no longer control himself as he said furiously. “You… What are you being so arrogant for!? Disciples of every sect have their own distinctions of the strong and the weak. Even if it’s the Divine Phoenix Sect, there’s no exception… Who knows what kind of status you actually have? Who doesn’t know how to talk big? If you have the capabilities… Then open the profound array and prove it to us!”
The moment his words fell, an astonished voice suddenly came from the back of the crowd. “I recall now! He’s Feng Zhaonan, the head disciple under the thirty ninth elder of Divine Phoenix Sect! I have once seen his name on the list of top hundred in the Divine Phoenix Ranking Tournament two years ago!”
When this piece of news came, the crowd instantly burst into an uproar. The eyes they were using to look towards the Phoenix disciple instantly underwent a grave change, as they became even more frightened… And as for that young profound practitioner who spoke up earlier, his expression instantly turned terribly pale.
Not only was he a disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect… He was even the head disciple of an elder-class figure! In the Divine Phoenix Nation’s Ranking Tournament, he was positioned in the top hundred!!
Feng Zhaonan burst out into wild laughter. “Hahahaha! I never expected that among you profound practitioners from these small nations, there’s actually someone who knows of my great name, Feng Zhaonan, as well… Heh, don’t you guys want to see if I’m capable of breaking open this Black Moon Headquarters’ profound array? Then, I shall have all of you open your eyes, and carefully look at the difference between the disciples of my Divine Phoenix Sect and the trash of your small nations!”
“Move away!”
Feng Zhaonan took three steps forward, and stood in front of a profound array. Putting out a posture very casually, he said lazily. “All of you had best open your eyes wide and look carefully now.”
When his words fell, phoenix flames speedily burnt on the top of his palm, and then, it fiercely collided towards the profound array in front.
Instantly, all of the phoenix profound energy was completely taken in by the profound array. Almost in an instant, the red, orange and yellow colors on the crystal pillar lighted together. The blinding light continued to rise, and it hurriedly lighted up the green color… Yet, it still did not stop, and instead, continued to rise at a decreasing rate. In the end, the blue colored glow was barely lighted up as well, and only after maintaining for about three seconds, did all of the glows fade away.
The profound array spun at high speed, and then, the shape of a transfer gate slowly formed. The color of the door was blue, and Feng Zhaonan’s body was being enveloped by a layer of blue glow as well, which meant that this blue-colored transfer gate, could only be entered by Feng Zhaonan.
Green, represented the right to enter the Black Moon Headquarters, and this color, also meant that the people of this color would all be absolute geniuses in the eyes of the Black Moon Merchant Guild! Not only did Feng Zhaonan have the qualification to enter the Black Moon headquarters, he was blue, a level higher than green. This judgment represented that in the standards judged by the Black Moon Merchant Guild, he was a genius among geniuses! All of the profound practitioners from the six nations were dumbfounded, and every single of their faces were turning red.
Feng Zhaonan retracted his hand, and a hint of complacency flashed past his eyes. However, his demeanor was as casual as before, and he then said very casually. “Mn, it was just a casual blow, but it’s still acceptable. You trash from the small nations, do you know what this blue color means? Tsk tsk, let’s forget about it. Because, let alone the third and fourth levels of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, all of you are only able to wish to enter the most basic first and second levels in your entire lifetimes. You all had best hurry and scram. Stop blocking this place and prevent anyone from walking over. You’re all really shameless.”
After saying that, with extremely belittling eyes, he swept a glance at the furious profound practitioners of the six nations, laughed out wildly, and walked to the transfer gate at the front. Just when his front foot was about to step into it, from behind him, an extremely disdainful voice sounded from the crowd behind. “And here I was thinking just how capable a head disciple of a Divine Phoenix Sect Elder was, it seems it’s not really much either. But, your arrogance, has surpassed your strength by countless times.”
When these words came, the entire crowd was instantly in an uproar, as they looked towards the one who spoke up, one after another. Feng Zhaonan’s steps stopped, and his entire body slowly turned back. His gaze landed on Yun Che, and after casually inspecting his profound strength, his face revealed an extremely disdainful expression. “The person who spoke earlier, was it you?”
The person who spoke earlier, was indeed Yun Che. Yun Che was not someone who was willing to cause much troubles for himself, but, more so than that, he was not someone who was willing to be ridiculed in silence. Feng Zhaonan’s earlier mockery was towards all of the profound practitioners of the six nations, and that naturally included him… But this was still secondary —— What Yun Che was definitely unable to bear, was when there was someone more arrogant than himself, standing right in front of him!
Like Feng Zhaonan.
Feng Zhaonan’s imposing aura was naturally astonishing, however, how could Yun Che be affected by his imposing aura? He coldly laughed, and said. “That’s right, it was me.”
“Hahahahahaha!” Feng Zhaonan laughed out wildly, as though he had just heard the funniest joke in the world. “And here I thought which big figure it was, so it’s just trash from a small nation… Oh, no, it’s something that can’t be even fit to be called trash. This level of profound strength, is but a pitiful Earth Profound Realm. In my eyes, it’s just trash, yet you dare to talk arrogantly in front of me? Your guts really aren’t small.”
He narrowed his eyes, and stretched out a finger with a smile. “Do you believe that if I want to kill you, I simply require a single finger? But, what a pity, this place is the territory of Black Moon Headquarters, and private battles are not allowed. After all, I have to give the Black Moon headquarters face, otherwise, just by those ridiculous words you said to me earlier, you would have already been a corpse by now! After dying in my hands, even if you’re a royal prince from some nation, or even the crown prince, I will still guarantee that your emperor will obediently dispatch men to collect your corpse. Other than that, he wouldn’t even dare to give another damn.”
Among the young profound practitioners present, those who had higher profound strength than Yun Che could be found anywhere. When Yun Che called out, they were initially pleasantly surprised, as they thought that someone, who could put down this Phoenix disciple’s prestige, had appeared. However, when they found out that Yun Che’s profound strength was merely at the Earth Profound Realm, all of them were extremely disappointed, and there were even someone who questioned if he was insane… With strength merely at the Earth Profound Realm, he actually dared to challenge a top-class disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect.
“However, if you were to kneel and give me three sounding kowtows now, then call me your grandfather three times, I can still consider sparing your life, and allow you to leave Divine Phoenix City safe and sound. After all, as my own grandson, how could I, your grandfather, bear to lay my hands on you? Hahahaha.” Feng Zhaonan belittling and arrogantly said.
All of the surrounding profound practitioners looked at Yun Che with pitiful faces… Even though he did not possess the strength to back himself, he still came out to act tough. How could the Divine Phoenix Sect’s iron plate be so easily kicked!? They could already predict the tragic end of this person.
“Kowtow?” The corner of Yun Che’s lips slightly tilted, his expression did not carry the slightest of fear, instead, he lightly smiled. “It seems to be a pretty good idea. Then, Feng Zhaonan, why don’t we make a bet? I hold a very big interest towards this Black Moon Headquarters, and my purpose here today, is to enter and take a look. If I don’t have the capabilities to enter the third and fourth floor like you, forget about kowtows, you can do whatever you want with this life of mine. If I’m able to have this crystal pillar’s light shine above the blue color, heh… Then you shall obediently kneel in front of me, give me three sounding kowtows, and call me your grandfather three times… This bet, do you dare accept it?”
When Yun Che’s words came out, everyone gasped out in shock. The profound practitioner from Black Fiend Empire that was deflected away by the profound array earlier, loudly reminded. “Are you crazy!? Hurry and take back the words you said earlier. Forget about blue, getting the green color to light up is even harder than stepping onto the heavens! I’m at the early stages of the Sky Profound Realm, a mere Earth Profound Realm like you, you’re basically… basically humiliating yourself.”
“Forget it, Senior brother Yin. Don’t bother him, he should be a lunatic.” His sect companions hurriedly said, as they feared that he would be targeted by Feng Zhaonan out of anger.
“You? Make a bet with me? Higher than blue?” The corner of Feng Zhaonan’s eyes twitched, his face spasmed. Then, he laughed out wildly, his body rocked back and forth, and he could barely catch his breath. “Haha… Haha… Hahahaha… This is basically the best joke I have ever heard in my entire lifetime… An Earth Profound Realm trash… actually has pipedream of hitting above blue… And even wish to make a bet with me… Hahaha… Hahahaha…”
The eyes the surrounding profound practitioners were directing at Yun Che, had already changed to as though they were looking at a pure idiot. Yun Che coldly looked at Feng Zhaonan’s wild laughter. When he finally managed to stop laughing, Yun Che lightly said. “Do you dare or not? If you don’t dare, then good, I’ll let you off. My time is extremely precious, and I don’t wish to waste it excessively on an arrogant trash.”
Feng Zhaonan’s wild laughter stopped, his expression instantly darkened. “You’re saying I don’t dare? Heh… Even till the end, you’re an idiotic trash who doesn’t know the difference between heaven and earth. With you alone, you’re not qualified to make a bet with me. But, my mood today suddenly became really good, so I shall play with you. If you’re able to strike higher than blue, forget about three sounding kowtows, and calling you grandfather three times, it’s not even a problem for me to give you ten thousand kowtows and call you grandfather ten thousand times at all. Come, come. Hurry and strike it, show me. Allow me to properly witness how you’re going to strike it above blue… Hahahaha…”
“Very good.” Yun Che nodded. He suddenly raised his head, and looked towards the far top in at the front. “Since this bet has already been made, and it’s even made on the territory of this Black Moon Headquarters, then, why don’t we have that senior on the seventh floor, who has been looking here all this while, bear witness to this?”
At the seventh floor of Black Moon Merchant Guild, an elderly dressed entirely in purple was standing by the window. Standing stationary like a statue, he had been silently watching the plaza below for a very long time. When Yun Che’s voice came sounding from afar, the elderly’s entire body shook for a moment, and his face revealed an astonished expression… He carefully looked at Yun Che’s gaze, and realized he was actually looking straight at his own position, there was not even a single difference in angle!
He’s actually able to discover me? Astonishment and disbelief filled the purple clothed elder’s heart…
The seventh floor of Black Moon Merchant Guild was more than a thousand and five hundred meters away from ground floor, and the horizontal distance from the crystal stage of the plaza to the Black Moon Main Hall was several hundreds of meters away as well. At the same time, the Black Moon Merchant Guild’s viewing window was sealed by an incomparably precious unique material, which could allow one to view the outside clearly, but prevent one to see inside even the slightest bit from the outside. Adding that the purple clothed elderly’s profound strength was incomparably powerful, even if a Throne was merely a few hundred meters away from him, it would be difficult to discover his aura.
…But this Yun Che, whose profound aura was clearly merely at the Earth Profound Realm, was actually able to discover my presence!? And he even knew that I had been looking at them all this while!
In actuality, the one who found out that the purple clothed elder had been looking at them from the seventh floor all this while, naturally, couldn’t possibly be Yun Che, instead, it was Jasmine.
Chapter 402 - Senior Zi
The purple clothed elder stood in place without moving, and did not say anything either, because he wasn’t sure if Yun Che was merely probing about to make it deliberately mystifying or had actually discovered him… If it was the latter, then that would be inconceivable.
At this moment, Yun Che actually spoke once more: “If senior isn’t going to reply, then I’m going to count that as silent approval. For the Black Moon Headquarters to be so successful even now, honesty is inevitably the number one criteria. I believe that senior would not allow a lowly person who would go back on his word to appear in his domain.”
Feng Zhaonan laughed loudly: “Seventh floor senior? Hahahaha! With such a far distance, and it even being the interior of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, let alone a trash like you, even I should not think about probing for any movements inside there. You putting on such an act like that seriously resembles an extremely ridiculous clown.”
Yun Che laughed coldly. Without saying another word, he walked toward the front of a profound array in the eyes of everyone present… He had already roughly understood that this crystal station’s standard for talent; the age of one’s bones, and degree of power… not simply the level of one’s profound strength. If it was in accordance to this standard, then no matter what, he ought to be stronger than this Feng Zhaonan.
Yun Che extended both hands and gathered his energy. “Purgatory” instantly opened as his hands smashed out with “Falling Moon Sinking Star”.
Divine Phoenix Empire had more than five thousand years of history, and the existence of this crystal stage was even older than the Divine Phoenix Empire, which was highly unusual. The might of Yun Che’s strike under the state of Purgatory was absolutely terrible beyond compare, but once it struck atop the profound array, it also did not make any noise as all its force was completely absorbed by the profound array in an instant, without the slightest bit of overflow.
Clang Clang Clang…
The silent crystal pillar suddenly lit up… from red, it almost instantly went straight to blue. The sound of five different colors simultaneous lighting up overlapped, directly shocking the ears of everyone present with a continuous droning noise.
All of the surrounding profound practitioners had a pitiful expression, and were already prepared to see a joke, but the scene before their eyes immediately left them completely dumbstruck, leaving them unable to dare believe their own eyes. The sneer on Feng Zhaonan’s face stiffened instantly, as he involuntarily cried out: “This… this is impossible!”
The ascension of the light on the crystal pillar slowed down, but it still did not stop as it continue upward through the blue pillar and broke through the blue colored boundary as the indigo crystal pillar then lit up.
“Waah!!” Almost all the profound practitioners present let out an involuntary cry… However, the crystal pillar’s light still did not cease, and instead continued to rise higher and higher. The indigo light quickly became an azure color. Then, there was only a “clang” sound…
A purple radiance was released from the highest pillar of light.
Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet… All colors lit up, and the entire crystal pillar brightened with the color of the rainbow. Slowly, the violet color spread downwards, gradually engulfing the other colors, making the entire crystal pillar purple. The purple color was preserved for a full ten breaths of time, then slowly scattered. The profound array in front of Yun Che spun at high speed, and then, the shape of a purple colored transfer gate slowly formed. Yun Che’s body, was also radiating a faint purple color.
On the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, the face of the purple clothed elder, who had been standing by the window from the start, fiercely moved. His gazed firmly locked on Yun Che, and it took a good while until he slowly spoke out a few words: “Earth Profound Realm… Inconceivable…”
This grade, was also beyond Yun Che’s expectations. In fact, the crystal stage’s standard judgement of talent did not merely use a person’s age and strength, at the same time, it also compared the power released of those at the same level as well. Yun Che’s profound strength was at the late stages of the Earth Profound Realm, yet he could release a strength comparable to a middle stage Emperor Profound. This was his current strongest, and it could be said that in the entire Profound Sky Continent, none could reach him.
The surrounding profound practitioners were all stupefied on the spot. A profound practitioner that placed in the top fiftieth of Black Fiend Nation’s ranking tournament could only strike out the yellow. Feng Zhaonan was the head disciple of an elder-rank person within the Divine Phoenix Sect, and his blue grade was one that they could never hope to reach for even in their entire lifetimes. Yet this person, who was obviously at the Earth Profound Realm, actually struck out… the illusory, unreal violet!!
This meant that based on the Black Moon Merchant Guild’s judgement, his aptitude was at the very top of the entire Profound Sky Continent! Although there was the level of indigo between violet and blue, this did not represent the disparity in the two levels, rather, the difference was two full planes, two whole worlds! In front of a yellow-colored grade, a blue-colored grade was a transcendent existence that one could not see the summit of. But in front of a purple-colored grade… it was trash, through and through.
“Impossible… Impossible… There must be… be a problem with the profound array… Impossible!” Staring at the purple colored radiance that had yet to disperse, Feng Zhaonan’s entire body shook… Born in Divine Phoenix City, he was even more clear than everyone present on what the purple-colored grade meant. Because within this generation of Divine Phoenix Sect’s profound practitioners, only one person had struck out a purple-colored grade. Even indigo, was a rarity. No matter what, he was unable to accept that a mere Earth Profound Realm from one of the other six nations, someone who was fundamentally not even worthy to be glanced at in his eyes… had actually struck out the violet of legends!
Even though he had lowly muttered out that there must be a problem with the profound array… he was even more clear than everyone present that it was absolutely impossible for there to be a problem with the profound array. It was rumored that these thirty-two profound arrays were made by a Monarch of the Sovereign Profound Realm, and it existed even longer than the Divine Phoenix Empire. How could a problem possible appear on it?
Yun Che turned around, faced Feng Zhaonan, and laughed faintly: “Feng Zhaonan, the results are now in. You ought to not have forgotten the bet we made previously, right? Then what are you standing there for? Why haven’t you kneeled down and kowtowed to your grandfather?!”
“You!” Feng Zhaonan’s complexion became pitch-black… Before now, even if he was beaten to death, he would never believe that a mere, insignificant Earth Profound Realm would strike out a level higher than blue… or even the legendary violet. Let alone a high ranking disciple of the Divine Phoenix Sect, even if it were an ordinary person, it was impossible for one to accept the humiliation of going down on his knees to kowtow, and even calling out grandfather. Otherwise, he would always bear this humiliating mark for his entire life.
“You’re only a trash of only the Earth Profound Realm, how could you strike out the violet!” Feng Zhaonan said with gritted teeth: “There obviously is a problem with the profound array… or maybe you had used some sort of trick! To want me, Feng Zhaonan of the Divine Phoenix Sect to kneel for you… is simply a joke as big as the heavens!”
“Haha.” Yun Che sneered: “Divine Phoenix Sect is known as the number one sect in the world, its might and power is known to be impressive everywhere, and would make people wistful. Never did I expect that not only is this disciple condescending beyond belief and arrogant without scruples, he’s actually a lowly person who would go back on his word. That seriously leaves one greatly disappointed. However, you can’t renege on your bet, as every friend present here are all personal witnesses! If you really do not care about your pathetic face, you can just leave far away with your tail behind your legs. But I don’t know what would happen if this news were to spread throughout the city and pass through your sect’s ears, letting them know that you had lost all of your sect’s face in front of the presence of all the other six nation’s profound practitioners in Black Moon Merchant Guild’s territory. I wonder if they would expel you from Divine Phoenix Sect… Oh, no, Divine Phoenix Sect’s biggest taboo is their bloodline, so they would never drive away a disciple. I guess they would directly do some… house cleaning?”
When Feng Zhaonan had come earlier, the surrounding reverent gazes had made his entire body feel incredibly pleasurable. But now, the surrounding gazes were like daggers boring into his entire body… If he was alone with Yun Che, he would unhesitantly kill Yun Che, letting not a third person know of this. However, not only was this the territory of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, there were also more than ten thousand people here as witnesses. This was the first time in his life that he had been forced in such dire straits.
“In this one generation of my grand and mighty Divine Phoenix Sect, only one person has struck the violet! How could a trash of the Earth Profound Realm like you, be able to strike the violet! There’s obviously a problem with the profound array… What qualifications do you have to make me kneel?! Nobody would ever acknowledge this result! You’re actually even using the name of my sect to scare me? Haha… haha, simply ridiculous!”
Feng Zhaonan laughed loudly as he roared, but it was obvious that he was not confident in his last few words.
At this time, an aged voice suddenly came from above: “Little junior of Divine Phoenix Sect, your arrogance had first brought you trouble, yet you are not willing to admit that you lost your bet and is instead questioning my Black Moon’s profound array!? I’m afraid that if it was your Master, Feng Yunzhi himself, not even he would have that sort of courage!”
This sound was not at all resounding, but every word felt as if mountains were firmly striking at the soul. The level of cultivation that belonged to the owner of the voice was simply unimaginable. Feng Zhaonan raised his head toward the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, his face revealing a deep shock and fear. He said hurriedly: “It’s… it’s Senior Zi! Senior Zi, please calm your anger. This junior… this junior absolutely does not have the intention of questioning the Black Moon Merchant Guild.”
“No? Then is it that there was a problem with my hearing?” The aged voice asked loudly.
Feng Zhaonan’s face immediately became ashen, and he didn’t dare to speak for a long while…
A high ranking disciple from the Divine Phoenix Sect had actually been scared to this extent by the owner of this aged voice. Yun Che was slightly shocked in his heart, he raised his head and spoke: “Junior thanks senior for his fair words.”
“Honesty is the number one principle of my Black Moon Merchant Guild, and we can’t bear to look at despicable people who go back on their word. However, this junior is after all, a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple. If he goes down and kowtows, it would be of the utmost humiliation, which would be extremely inappropriate for the entire Divine Phoenix Sect. To you, it also brings not the least bit of benefit, so you ought to stand back in due course.”
“Senior’s teaching is right.” Yun Che said cheerfully: “Junior only could not take his gaze that looked down and insulted all of us six nation profound practitioners, which is why I wanted him to remember this a bit more.”
His expression became unsightly as he turned to face Feng Zhaonan and said with a beaming smile: “This Black Moon Merchant Guild senior has already plead for mercy in your stead, so of course I’ll have to honor this senior’s reputation… This head of yours, no longer needs to knock on the floor, grandfather, you also do not need to call. But if you just leave like that, then wasn’t this bet made for naught? We, profound practitioners of the other six nations, would also have been scolded by you free of charge! Thus, you had best leave behind a little something! Mn…” Yun Che supported his chin with a hand as his eyes narrowed into slits while he sized up Feng Zhaonan’s entire body: “The clothes you’re wearing is actually not bad, take it off and give it to me… Senior, this junior’s request is not too excessive, right?”
The aged voice transmitted over: “The Phoenix Robe is a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple’s identity. No one outside of the sect would dare copy it, and even more would not dare to wear it. Even though I don’t know what you would use the Phoenix Robe for, compared with your bet, this is merciful enough. Little junior of Divine Phoenix Sect, the other party has already given you a huge concession, do you have any other objections?”
The Phoenix Robe was a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple’s status symbol, taking it off was undoubtedly comparable to tearing one’s face off. However, this outcome was unquestionably a thousand hundred times better than kowtowing. Added with the suppressive might coming from the Black Moon Merchant Guild, how could he even say anything else? Gritting his teeth, he took off the Phoenix Robe, flung it at Yun Che, then quickly changed into another outer clothing. After eyeing Yun Che with a malicious gaze, he left without ever looking back.
“You deeming a person weaker than you as trash means that you would admit defeat in the face of someone stronger, this also means that you are trash, through and through! It was not easy for the Divine Phoenix Sect to use five thousand years to develop to its state today. Even if you do not have the ability to increase your sect’s reputation, you should never think of making a disgrace out of yourself by using your status as a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple, making others hold you in contempt!” Yun Che coldly stated toward Feng Zhaonan’s direction. Then, without caring about Feng Zhaonan’s reaction, he turned around and walked over to that profound array he had struck earlier.
At the moment, the surrounding profound practitioners were looking at Yun Che with gazes filled with deep reverence. None were underestimating him for having the profound strength of an Earth Profound Realm anymore. At the same time, they were deeply thankful, after all, he had helped every of the six nations’ profound practitioners let off some steam in front of that Divine Phoenix Sect disciple. It was just that the imposing manner he used to deal with Feng Zhaonan and also the violet that was struck on the crystal stage, made them lose the courage to approach him in the middle of their reverence and gratitude. As Yun Che walked toward the profound array, the surrounding profound practitioners quickly stepped aside. Their gazes continuously followed him as they watched him walk into the purple colored profound array, and completely disappear within.
The purple colored profound array sent Yun Che to the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild… a place that not many of the entire Profound Sky Continent had set foot in.
Chapter 403 - Black Moon’s Seventh Floor
Upon entering the seventh floor of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, before he had even seen it clearly, a current of extremely refreshing air assaulted his senses… Right! It was actually clean, refreshing air! For an enormous merchant guild, the strongest aroma it ought to have would be a simple and dignified odor, but Yun Che actually felt as if he had suddenly been placed within a completely clean and pure natural environment, without the least bit of feeling like he was within a merchant guild.
He opened his eyes and looked toward the front. Astonishingly, a garden as far as he could see appeared before his eyes. Various kinds of brightly colored rare and unusual botany sprinkled within the emerald green as a great tree towered above. The running stream criss-crossed inbetween, bringing along the unceasing murmurs of running water.
A dazzled thought instantly emerged within Yun Che’s consciousness… was this something built inside Black Moon’s seventh floor?
This was obviously an otherworldly utopia from the fairy realm!
Up ahead, three beautiful and graceful young maidens who wore different colored garments walked toward Yun Che. None of their looks were not one in ten thousand, and their bearing was even more luxuriously poised. Their profound strength aura was strong to at most the Sky Profound!
The three young women came to Yun Che’s front and saluted gracefully: “Esteemed customer, welcome to Black Moon Merchant Guild. If there is anything you need, please do not hesitate to tell us.”
The treatment within Black Moon’s seventh floor was sure enough, extraordinary. With these three young women’s shocking strength, any one of them would be a regional lord within the Blue Wind Nation, yet here, they were unexpectedly mere maids that waited upon customers.
Yun Che quickly swept a glance around, yet did not see any place that was selling an item, even the smallest trace of what a merchant guild ought to have was indiscernible. He thought for a moment, then said: “Three fairies, may I ask where the senior I was talking to earlier is currently?”
“Haha.” A gentle chuckle came from an unknown place: “Bring him here.”
“Yes… Esteemed customer, please come this way.” The three young women agreed crisply. With one at the front, left, and right, they respectfully led Yun Che forward.
After passing through the garden, through the flowerbeds, through a little group of hills and a little waterfall, a simple yet extraordinarily styled courtyard appeared in his line of sight. In the center of the courtyard was a pavilion, and in front of the pavilion stood a medium statured old man dressed entirely in purple who was currently sizing up Yun Che with a smile.
Yun Che took a step forward and said politely: “Junior Ling Yun greets senior.”
Yun Che obviously would not his real name, so he casually borrowed Ling Yun’s.
“Heh heh, please sit.” The purple clothed elder beckoned with a hand, then went on ahead to sit on the stone bench in the middle of the pavilion. Yun Che nodded slightly and sat opposite of the elderly man. One of the young women left gracefully, and the other two broke off to either side of him with their heads slightly lowered and a light smile on their lips. Their posture was solemnly respectful, as if they were at Yun Che’s disposal.
“May I ask what senior is called?” Yun Che asked.
“This old man is surnamed Zi, and simply named Ji.” The old man answered with a smile.
Zi? Yun Che was somewhat taken aback, this was the first time he had ever heard of this family name, but he nodded immediately: “Senior Zi, thank you so much for speaking out and helping me earlier.”
“The matter from before did not require this old man to say anything, as for helping you, it even more so cannot be considered as help. This old man merely prevented a small inconvenience for Black Moon, and nothing more.” Zi Ji raised his gaze, looked Yun Che straight in the eye, and said with a smile: “Young man, should this old man call you Yun Che, or Prince Consort Yun, or the name Ling Yun, that you wished to be called?”
“…” Yun Che’s expression stiffened slightly. Then, he laughed out loud and answered without the slightest of fluster: “As expected of the Black Moon Merchant Guild, your intelligence gathering ability is indeed unrivaled under heaven. Junior Yun Che trying to play tricks beneath Senior Zi’s all-seeing eye is truly laughable, I hope that Senior Zi will not take offense.”
“Haha,” Zi Ji laughed indifferently: “Black Moon’s intelligence gathering ability isn’t that exaggerated. It’s merely that your identity just so happens to be easy to recognize, that’s all. This old man has been in touch with members of the Divine Phoenix Sect all year round, and is extremely familiar with the phoenix flame ability. Even though you did your best to suppress it, this old man still could detect a bit of phoenix aura from your body. And the only person who possess the Phoenix bloodline outside of Divine Phoenix Sect is only Prince Consort Yun of Blue Wind Nation.”
The young woman who had left, returned, carrying already brewed tea. The tea’s fragrance permeated everywhere, making Yun Che’s state of mind relax as he smelled it. Even though he didn’t really understand much about tea, he knew that the value of this tea should be extremely high. He raised the tea cup, drank a small mouthful, and praised: “Good tea. After hearing senior’s words, it seems that this junior thinking about hiding his identity would be an impossibility.”
“You have concealed it with ice profound energy, unless they meticulously probed you, I’m afraid that even a Divine Phoenix Sect elder would not sense your phoenix flame ability.” Zi Ji smiled: “You had lit up the violet crystal on my Black Moon’s profound array, so it could even be said that your innate talent is universally shocking. Before, this old man had placed all his attention on you, otherwise, I would not detect your phoenix flame ability. However, to this old man, it doesn’t seem as though you are painstakingly hiding your own identity, or else you would not have paid any attention to that Divine Phoenix Sect junior, then also unrestrainedly revealed your innate talent on that crystal stage.”
“As expected of the master of Black Moon Merchant Guild’s seventh floor, your insight is perceptive.” Yun Che sincerely praised. On Black Moon’s seventh floor, the people that this Zi Ji made contact with were all kinds of peak level figures in the Profound Sky Continent. His ability to perceive and appraise someone was absolutely not one that an ordinary person could reach. He said lightly: “This junior had previously been hunted by others all year round, and is long weary of avoiding and hiding all over the place. After half a month, junior will be up against the Divine Phoenix Sect. Since that’s the case, there isn’t really a need for me to be trembling in fear and be overcautious within this half a month. Not being noticed by Divine Phoenix Sect is of course the best scenario, but even if I were to be noticed, it wouldn’t really matter anyway. If I was cautious about everything, wouldn’t it mean that I was afraid of the Divine Phoenix Sect?”
Yun Che drained the tea in the cup in one gulp. When talking about the Divine Phoenix Sect, there was not the least bit of fear in his expression.
This kind of courage made Zi Ji secretly praise him in his heart. He nodded, revealing his approval: “The reason why Divine Phoenix Sect did not really care enough to actively seek you out two years ago when you revealed your Phoenix bloodline and existence, is because in Divine Phoenix Sect’s eyes, every profound practitioner from the six nations outside of Divine Phoenix Empire are ants unfit for them to look at. However, after talking with you for a bit, this old man suddenly feels as if Divine Phoenix Sect may perhaps have to pay dearly due to them holding you in contempt… but that cannot be now. Even though you are not the least afraid, it does not mean that you are capable of opposing the Divine Phoenix Sect’s power. Your talent could be said to be extremely high, but it has not matured. You might be far stronger than what the Divine Phoenix Sect expected by many times, but it would still not be the least bit threatening.”
“Junior is well aware of this point.” Yun Che nodded, then proceeded to talk about the main reason why he had come here today: “The reason why this junior had come to the Black Moon Merchant Guild today is because this junior wishes to buy two things, and two intelligence, but…”
Yun Che’s gaze swept the surroundings… because this place truly did not seem like a place that sold things.
Understanding what Yun Che was puzzling over, Zi Ji laughed: “Don’t hesitate to just open your mouth and tell this old man whatever you need. The seventh floor is different from the first six floors. There is no difference between the first six floors and the Black Moon Merchant Guild you know of, while this place rarely has customers. Esteemed customers that come here are all personally received by this old man. Whatever an esteemed customer wants, as long as they say the word, no matter if Black Moon has it or not, as long as our esteemed customer asks for it and can afford to pay the price, Black Moon will do its utmost to fully satisfy it. If you want the little things, someone would still accompany our esteemed customer to the sixth floor.”
So it’s like that… Yun Che no longer hesitated as he said directly: “Of the two things this junior needs, one is a Heavenly Brahma Jade, the purer the better. The other is a completely preserved Phoenix Helianthus.”
Zi Ji closed his eyes, then opened them a few breaths later. He reached out his hand to lightly stroked the purple jade ring on his finger, took out a jade box that was releasing cold air, and showed it to Yun Che: “This is the biggest, and also the purest piece of all the Heavenly Brahma Jade that Black Moon possesses.”
A young woman walked forward and gently placed the ice jade case before Yun Che: “Esteemed customer, please have a look.”
Yun Che no longer hesitated, and directly opened the ice jade case. From within the cold pervading mist, Yun Che saw a light piece of stone shimmering with silvery light, which contained veins that look bloodshot. Yun Che extended his left hand; after an instant of feeling about, he sensed its purity with the Sky Poison Pearl’s perception… Things from Black Moon Headquarters would naturally not be fake. Yun Che immediately closed the ice jade case, and said: “Alright, may I ask senior to state a price?”
“Heavenly Brahma Jade is six hundred purple profound coins per fifty grams. This Heavenly Brahma Jade weighs six hundred fifty grams, and needs seven thousand eight hundred purple profound coins.” Zi Ji nonchalantly quoted a price.
The hell, so expensive! The corner of Yun Che’s mouth twitched, but he had a huge sum of ten million purple profound coins on him, so he certainly could afford it. Immediately after, he took out seven thousand eight hundred purple profound coins from his Purple Gold Card. Then, he put the Heavenly Brahma Jade inside the Sky Poison Pearl.
“As for the Phoenix Helianthus, the last thirteen Phoenix Helianthus Black Moon possessed had just been all bought by Divine Phoenix Sect six hours ago.” Zi Ji said: “If you urgently need them, outside of Black Moon, there is actually another place where you could buy it.”
“Where?”
Zi Ji said slowly: “One hundred fifty kilometers south of here is a merchant guild called the ‘Falling Flame Merchant Guild’. Tomorrow, at three in the afternoon, they ought to be auctioning out precious materials, among them is precisely the Phoenix Helianthus.”
Yun Che nodded “Junior has taken note of this, I thank senior for telling me this… Er, do I have to pay for this information?”
“Hoho, no need.” Zi Ji laughed faintly, then reminded: “However, even though the Falling Flame Merchant Guild is called a ‘merchant guild’, it is actually a black market. The things it sells are also unofficial public sales, once you get there, you’ll understand. But this old man believes that with your wisdom, you probably would not suffer a loss. Now, what are the two pieces of intelligence you wanted?”
“This junior hopes that Black Moon will help me look for the whereabouts of two individuals.” Yun Che stated grimly: “Of the two, one is named Chu Yuechan, formerly a disciple of Blue Wind Nation’s Frozen Cloud Asgard, head of the Frozen Cloud Seven Fairies. The other is Xia Yuanba…”
Yun Che described the two to Zi Ji in as much detail as he could. Zi Ji slightly closed his eyes, remembered everything, then said while nodding: “This old man will personally dispatch people for intelligence on these two people. Only, Black Moon’s relay network in Blue Wind Nation is thinly spread out, so it would be hard to guarantee swift news within the short term. Leave behind your sound transmission imprint. After possessing solid information, this old man will immediately contact you. Since you are an esteemed customer, there is no need for you to pay for the intelligence in advance. At the date of confirmation, we can settle the bill. Among the two, even though this old man does not know the whereabouts of Xia Yuanba, this old man does know a few matters concerning him, and can tell you a thing or two.”
Stunned, Yun Che immediately stood up: “You know Yuanba?”
“Not only do I know him, many people within Divine Phoenix City know of this name as well.” Zi Ji said slowly: “Back then, his name had actually resounded within half of Divine Phoenix City for a short period of time, he was a crazy madman. But shortly after, he suddenly disappeared without a trace. Not long after his disappearance, his father had also come rushing over to Divine Phoenix City, and actually stayed within this Black Moon Headquarters… Heh heh, if this old man has not remembered wrong, Xia Yuanba’s father, Xia Hongyi, should also be one of your father-in-laws, right?”
Chapter 404 - Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand
“Uncle Xia… in Black Moon Headquarters? Here?” Yun Che was stunned. Half a year ago, after he returned to Floating Cloud City, he had first went to Xia Manor, and found out that Xia Hongyi had left a long time ago to search for Xia Yuanba, who had not been sending any letters. The servant who had remained at Xia Clan told him that Xia Hongyi had taken out something shaped like a black crescent moon when he was tidying things up… At that time, he suspected it was a thing related to the Black Moon Merchant Guild, and if that was so, then he assumed that Xia Hongyi was probably searching for Xia Yuanba through the Black Moon Merchant Guild.
He never expected that he had actually remained within this Black Moon Merchant Guild.
And this was not just a Black Moon branch that could be found throughout the Profound Sky… it was the legendary Black Moon Headquarters!
Someone that was able to stay here was definitely not an ordinary figure. The relationship between Xia Hongyi and Black Moon Merchant Guild was in no way simple.
“If you wish to see him, this old man can personally bring you to him now. He’ll surely be delighted to see you.” Zi Ji said with a chuckle.
Yun Che’s expression became incomparably complex. After being silent for a long while, he slowly sat down and said: “Has Uncle Xia been doing well here?”
“Only he himself knows if he’s been doing well or not. But at least here, everything is stable, and he would not be bullied by anyone.” Zi Ji replied.
Yun Che nodded, and said half to himself: “Then that’s good. Knowing that Uncle Xia is safe and sound relieves me… I was the one who took Yuanba to Blue Wind Profound Palace, and it was also me, who took him to Heavenly Sword Villa. If he had remained in New Moon City, the things that happened afterwards would not have occurred. Without having found Yuanba yet, I don’t have the face to see him… Senior Zi, talk to me about Yuanba. This junior could not be any more clearer about his strength, so how could he have shocked half of Divine Phoenix City?”
“Two years ago, a youth from another nation arrived in Divine Phoenix City. After the first day he arrived, as well as every other day after that, he went to challenge those famous sects within the city.”
“He… challenged sects?”
“Yes. Unfortunately, his profound strength cultivation was too low, and was easily injured severely by the other party. But on the second day, he continued to challenge the sect with a body full of injuries. The outcome, was obviously injury upon injuries. On the third day, he still went to challenge that sect, and had actually been struck to the brink of death due to the other party’s impatience… Even though his profound strength was feeble, his physique was exceptionally abnormal. He was obviously near death with heavily injuries, but on the next day, he still was able to stand up, and dropped in once more to challenge them. There was even one time when the other party had beaten two enormous bloody holes on his body, yet he still didn’t die. At first, everyone thought that he was a lunatic, but as the days and months passed, no one considered him to be a madman anymore. It was not rarely to see someone who strongly pursued strength, but being strongly attached to that extent, even if it’s this old man, it was the first time ever.”
Yun Che: “…”
“In the three months he had stayed in Divine Phoenix City, his body was riddled with heavy injuries everyday. There was practically no place on his body that was left intact, but he still dragged his heavily injured body and went to seek out opponents that he simply could not defeat. Among the ones he had challenged, there were inevitably a few impatient ones, or perhaps malicious ones who wished to put him to death, but no matter what kind of heavy injury he received, he had actually never died. In those three months, the people’s view of him changed from ridicule to that of shock, until that day after three months when he suddenly disappeared from Divine Phoenix City. There was not the slightest trace of him even until today, so he has probably been forgotten already. However, this old man believes that he was not secretly harmed by another, otherwise, he would never have escaped Black Moon’s eye.”
Yun Che’s heart became incomparably complex. Even though Xia Yuanba was especially tall and appeared to make one feel oppressed, under Xia Hongyi’s nurture, he had an especially gentle temperament and a simple nature. Furthermore, he was always unwilling to fight against others. However, the Xia Yuanba described by Zi Ji was actually a lunatic, through and through. He was very clear on the reason why Xia Yuanba had suddenly changed…
“…Senior Zi, thank you for telling me all these. I’ll be troubling you with everything else.” Yun Che said while standing up.
Zi Ji also stood up right after, and said with a laugh: “No need to be polite, it is our Black Moon’s honor to have the privilege of servicing our esteemed customers.”
Yun Che understood why Zi Ji was so courteous to him. Since the Black Moon Merchant Guild had developed up to today, it naturally had an established reason for its existence. Toward those with extremely high innate talent that might possible rank within the Profound Sky’s peak experts, Black Moon naturally would show preferential treatment. Not only would their service be at its utmost respectful, they were even eager to make the other party owe them a debt of gratitude.
“Oh right,” Yun Che suddenly thought of another matter: “I don’t know if Senior Zi has heard of the ‘Netherworld Udumbara Flower’?”
The Netherworld Udumbara Flower was one of the three items Jasmine needed within thirty years. She needed a Netherworld Udumbara Flower, three Tyrant Profound Beast Cores, and thirty-five kilograms of Purple Veined Divine Crystals.
“Netherworld Udumbara Flower?” A pondering look emerged on Zi Ji’s face. After a short while, he said slowly: “This old man knows of this flower, it is an extremely yin, demonic, and evil item. It only grows within extremely wicked places, and would only bloom once every twenty four years, then wither three days later. This flower is frightening, let alone touch it, just being near it would allow the netherworld’s aura invade one’s body, and damage the soul. If the effect was light, it would make one lose consciousness, if heavy, it would make one a living dead person, even so much that one would lose their life. Apart from this, I have never heard of any positive value to this flower. Why are you looking for this flower?”
“Junior naturally has a special use for it, if senior knows where one is, I’d like it if you’ll inform me about that as well.”
Zi Ji thought for a while, then shook his head: “The last written record of a Netherworld Udumbara Flower was one thousand three hundred years ago. After that, there were no more written accounts nor rumors about it. The human race within the Profound Sky Continent is continuously increasing, nowadays, there are more than four times the number of people since a thousand years ago. As a result, the yang energy of the entire continent has greatly surpassed the yin, perhaps the Netherworld Udumbara Flower has thus become extinct in the Profound Sky Continent.”
“…I thank senior for telling me this, this junior shall take his leave.”
After unexpectedly learning about some news concerning Xia Yuanba, even if it made his mood a bit heavy, it had at least comforted him somewhat… No wonder he was never able to find any signs of Xia Yuanba within Blue Wind’s borders, it turned out that he had actually come to the Divine Phoenix Empire after leaving Heavenly Sword Villa.
In terms of profound strength level, Divine Phoenix Empire was after all, a place that was far higher than Blue Wind. Did he come here to seek strength in his extreme sorrow and self-blame…?
And Little Fairy, where exactly are you anyway…
——————————————————
Divine Phoenix Sect.
The date of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament grew closer and closer. Feng Xichen’s mood also became more and more impatient by the day. The scene of that day’s humiliation never stopped upsetting his mental state. After he had finally informed Feng Ximing about the Yun Che related matter yesterday, he had become even more restless.
Because what he had described to Feng Ximing was a world of difference from the truth that happened several months ago. Even though he was certain that Divine Phoenix Sect would absolutely not pardon Yun Che if he were to truly come to Divine Phoenix City, he was unable to worry about Yun Che possibly mentioning the events of that day during the ranking tournament. If the events of that day were to be made public in front of thousands of eyes, the brand of humiliation would not only be carved into his soul, it would be carved onto his face from then on.
The door was pushed open, and a tall figure, accompanied by a scorching heatwave, stepped in. The anxious Feng Xicheng quickly turned around. Just as he was about to get angry, when he saw who had come in, his surging fury was panicky taken back, and he hurriedly made a frontal salutation: “This son greets royal father.”
“You may rise.” Feng Hengkong lifted his hand, and got straight to the point: “Ximing has already told us in detail about what you had experienced in Blue Wind Nation a few months ago. Although you have concealed it till this day, it is still pardonable, we are not here to blame you.”
Feng Xicheng said hurriedly: “This son thanks royal father for his kindness… It’s just that, even though royal father does not blame me, this son nevertheless feels even more ashamed and unresigned.”
“Hmph!” Feng Hengkong’s face filled with rage: “We also never thought that a little Blue Wind Emperor would actually have such guts! Rest assured, in not even three years, we shall retrieve back ten million times the humiliation you received in Blue Wind for you! At that time, you will be handling the punishment of that Blue Wind Emperor. As for that Yun Che brat… Hmph, didn’t he say that he was participating in the ranking tournament? Very good, we just so happen to be waiting to see how he’ll tumble!”
Feng Xicheng was half delighted and half in panic: “This son thanks royal father for his deep generosity… This son’s humiliation is but a small matter, but the matter of our Divine Phoenix Sect’s bloodline is even larger than the sky. How about taking care of that Yun Che in secret before the ranking tournament?”
“No need!” Feng Hengkong swung his hand and said in extreme disdain: “How is a little profound practitioner from Blue Wind fit to be especially targeted by our Divine Phoenix Sect in secret? That’s simply lowering our Divine Phoenix Sect’s status! The Seven Nation Ranking Tournament has always been our Divine Phoenix Sect’s show, if there is no source of laughter and sense of balance, it would be quite dull! We actually hope that this Yun Che could display a little color when that time comes, and not let us down.”
“What royal father has said is extremely true.” Feng Xicheng said while lowering his head.
“Xicheng, what is the result of the theft in Phoenix Jade Hall we have told you to investigate?” As he mentioned this matter, Feng Hengkong’s complexion changed to become distinctively overcast.
“This son has discovered the person behind the theft…”
Just as Feng Xicheng was in the middle of speaking, Feng Hengkong fiercely turned around: “Who is it! Who exactly is this audacious, to dare steal from our Divine Phoenix Sect!”
The reason why he was furious, was not merely due to this person’s audacity, but rather due to his astonishment, because this thief could be said to have a terrifying ability. What kind of place was his Divine Phoenix Sect? Let alone an outsider, even if it was a mere winged insect, it would quickly be detected. But this thief, who was not sensed by anyone, stole into Phoenix Jade Hall, where all kinds of treasures were stored… If it weren’t for the fact that he had inattentively touched an invisible profound formation during his theft, it could even be said that no one would’ve known that someone had already infiltrated Phoenix Jade Hall.
What astonished him even more was that after the thief had activated the profound formation, which made all the experts in the sect become more vigilant, the thief had actually left with not the slightest of injuries under the heavy encirclement of innumerable phoenix experts… For this, even if it was a genuine Overlord, it was still nigh impossible to achieve…
“Royal father, please calm your anger… There is only person in the entire Divine Phoenix Empire who is able to accomplish this…” Feng Xichen raised his head, continuing with locked brows: “Hua Minghai.”
“Hua Minghai?” Feng Hengkong had on an overcast expression, but quickly reacted over: “‘Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’ Hua Minghai!?”
“Yes!” Feng Xichen nodded: “In this world, there is only one person who can accomplish that. Hua Minghai’s profound strength is not too great, but his speed and movement skills could be said to be peerless. Moreover, his ability to be extremely good at concealment, moving stealthily, changing his appearance, being soundless, and being good at escaping is unrivaled…”
“No need to speak any further.” Feng Hengkong waved a hand: “We have also heard of this name. Known as the ‘number one thief in the world’, Hua Minghai, who possesses a ‘ghost mirage sacred hand’! It has been said that no matter what he stole, he had never made a mistake, let alone be captured by anyone. Even his true appearance has never been seen by anyone. Hmph… but we never thought that this thief would actually be audacious enough to provoke our Divine Phoenix Sect! Does he truly think that no one in this world is able to deal with him?!”
Chapter 405 - Underground Auction
“Did you check what items the Phoenix Jade Hall have lost?” Feng Hengkong said with furrowed brows.
Feng Xicheng respectfully replied: “What Hua Minghai stole the most were usually Purple Veined Heaven Crystals and Purple Veined Divine Crystals, however, the Purple Veined Heaven Crystals and Purple Veined Divine Crystals within the Phoenix Jade Hall did not decrease in the slightest, but… we are missing a half used stalk of Phoenix Helianthus. I’m assuming that it’s because the thief was in a panicked state after touching the protective profound formation, and randomly took any item before hurriedly escaping.”
“Half a Phoenix Helianthus?” Even though Phoenix Helianthus were rare, to Divine Phoenix Sect, they were not considered that precious of an item. Feng Hengkong snorted coldly: “Even though nothing really went missing, just the fact that he dared to charge into our Divine Phoenix Sect has brought upon his own destruction. From this day forth, investigate all tracks of Hua Minghai within the entire empire. It’s best if he were to be brought back alive, but if it’s difficult to capture him alive, kill him on the spot!”
“Yes! This son shall immediately give out the order. Even if that Hua Minghai has a heaven high ability, he should still never think about escaping the palms of our Divine Phoenix Sect.” Feng Xichen promised.
“Then this matter shall be given to you to handle. Whether or not Hua Minghai is able to safely enter and leave our Divine Phoenix, is worthy of being your test! Don’t let us down.”
“Yes, royal father, this son will definitely not let you down.”
Just as Feng Hengkong turned around to leave, his footsteps stopped at the doorway, and he said casually: “Before the start of the ranking tournament, Xue’er will be cultivating in seclusion within Phoenix Perching Valley. No matter who it is, even if it’s for an enormous matter, they are not allowed to take half a step in the surrounding twenty five kilometers around Phoenix Perching Valley! However, we are still a bit worried. When you are investigating Hua Minghai, arrange a few guards around the east, west, and north directions of Phoenix Perching Valley. Don’t let anyone approach. If anyone dares to bother Xue’er, no matter who it is, kill them on sight!”
“Yes, this son will immediately carry out the order.”
After Feng Hengkon left, Feng Xichen heaved a slight breath of relief. After a long period of silence, he once again became agitated. He paced back and forth in the hall for several tens of times before finally speaking with a low voice while creasing his brows: “Chihuo, come in!”
A streak of flame flashed, and a middle aged man around fifty or so years old appeared in front of Feng Xichen as if he had teleported there. He bowed: “Your Highness, what are your instructions?”
“Leave the palace at once, and go secretly search for a person named ‘Yun Che’ in Divine Phoenix City! He’s here to participate in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, and he’ll definitely appear within half a month… in fact, he may already be here. If you find him, assassinate him immediately… Remember, the more secretly you do it, the better. After you kill him, immediately destroy his corpse, it’s best if you leave no traces behind!” Feng Xichen said with an extremely evil expression.
“Yes, Your Highness.” Feng Chihuo nodded in answer.
“Remember, aside from you and me, no one is to know about this! Including my royal father.” Feng Xichen’s expression became grave.
Shock flashed past Feng Chihuo’s face, then, he nodded without the slightest hesitation: “This old servant will not disappoint Your Highness… This old servant shall take his leave.”
When Fen Chihuo left, Feng Xichen clenched both his hands as a sinister light of hatred flickered in his eyes. He said in a low voice: “Yun Che… Not being able to personally kill you myself, truly would make it hard for me to dispel my hatred! But you must die before the ranking tournament! Once Blue Wind Nation is exterminated, that time’s humiliation shall also be eternally buried beneath my feet!”
——————————————
The next day, Yun Che arrived at Divine Phoenix City’s Falling Flame Merchant Guild as per Zi Ji’s directions.
Only after he had arrived did Yun Che discover that this place was indeed as Zi Ji had said it was. Even though the name hung up ahead said “Merchant Guild”, it was not at all an orthodox merchant guild. Truthfully speaking, it resembled an underground market! And it wasn’t that big either. This stretch of area contained many similar type underground markets, and they all hung up the word “Merchant Guild.”
However, as long as he could buy a Phoenix Helianthus, it wasn’t really important whether it was a merchant guild or a black market.
From a dark remote alley, Yun Che saw the signboard engraved with the words “Falling Flame Merchant Guild”. Beneath the signboard gracefully stood a young woman in the prime of her youth. Seeing Yun Che approach, she took the initiative to welcome him: “Sir, are you here to participate in Falling Flame’s auction?”
“Yes, I’d like to ask miss to lead the way.” Yun Che said naturally. Back in Azure Cloud Continent, he had attended many black markets before. These sort of black markets were all places that pulled people in to make transactions, at the same time, they required one to pay a high “admission fee”.
The escorting young women stated: “Today’s Falling Flame Auction will be selling many rare treasures, so the admission fee is a bit higher than usual. It costs twenty purple profound coins.”
Twenty didn’t sound that high… but it was twenty purple profound coins, a full two hundred thousand yellow profound coins! And it was even just the “admission fee”!
Yun Che didn’t say anything further as he happily handed over twenty purple profound coins… The young lady in front of him absolutely would never think that there were millions upon millions of yellow profound coins on Yun Che’s chest.
“Sir, please follow me.”
The young woman accepted the purple profound coins, then brought Yun Che into a dark alley. After taking several turns on multiple roads, they walked into a concealed underground area. It was not wide, and there were only a total of thirty to forty chairs. At this time, around twenty something people were seated in a scattered fashion. Even though this place was remote and concealed, none of the clothes these people wore were not extremely luxurious… Those who were willing pay the high admission fee of twenty purple profound coins were in no way from a simple family.
When Yun Che came in, everyone present gave him a glance, one after the other. After perceiving that he was only at the Earth Profound Realm, their faces all revealed expressions of disdain. Then, they all turned their heads without bothering to take another look. Earth Profound Realm at not even the age of twenty was a rarely seen genius in Blue Wind Nation, but in Divine Phoenix Empire, it could only be reduced to a low-class individual. In the eyes of these upper class boasters, it was simply not worth mentioning.
Yun Che obviously did not bother to take note of anyone here, as he randomly picked a place to sit.
After Yun Che, no one else came in. Not long after, a charming voice came over: “Sirs, we have made you wait for a long time.”
A hidden door opened, and a well-developed graceful woman slowly walked out. Following behind her, was a gray haired elderly man. The woman wore a close-fitting black garment that revealed every inch of her curves, her beautiful eyes were like peach blossoms, bright and limpid as she looked at everyone present, and nearly stole their souls.
“Yo… my little Qi Qi, you’re finally here. I’ve been anxiously waiting for you.” A blue clothed young man stood up. His eyes fixed at the young woman, casting amorous glances her way.
“Hehe, hehe…” The woman covered her lips and giggled, then said charmingly: “Sir Gongsun is always this impatient. This one promises everyone that today’s treasures would not let anyone down. Sirs, you all should widen your eyes and watch me properly. Once we start bidding, don’t ever show mercy! Oh, right, Sirs who have come for the first time, this humble one is Xiao Qi, Falling Flame Auction’s host. You’ll have to visit often in the future, and come see me, okay?”
This Xiao Qi woman’s words were flirtatious, and her posture was alluring. Even though the men present still wore a deadpan look, their fingers fidgeted, and they secretly salivated. If one were to speak about those who were truly as calm as before, it would only be Yun Che alone… because the difference between his two wives and this enchantress was just too wide. She didn’t even arouse his male instinct, nor did she pique any of his interest.
“Has this lord ever let little Qi Qi down before?” The young man called “Sir Gongsun” gazed lustfully at Xiao Qi: “I just don’t know if you, little Qi Qi, is one of the treasures up for auction today? If yes, even if this lord has to lose all his property, he’ll still gladly make the purchase.”
“Hehe, Sir Gongsun’s so bad.” Xiao Qi held out her hand to cover her mouth, and gave Sir Gongsun an extremely flirtatious glance which directly made his entire body go limp.
Ten thousand grass mud horses galloped through Yun Che’s heart.
(TL: Grass Mud Horse (草泥马) is a homophone of Motherf*cker (操你妈), thus used as a pun here. It has developed into a slang nowadays.)
The auction then finally got back on topic. Xiao Qi extended a dark green jade case from the elderly man behind her. With both hands clasped on the jade case, her charming eyes swept past everyone present. She said with a laugh: “In this jade case, are two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows which contain the purest essence of an enormous purple crystal mine. If you use one to drive a profound ark, one Purple Crystal Jade Marrow could fuel a fifty thousand kilogram profound ark for two hundred hours. If you meld it onto a weapon with spiritual conscious, it could raise the weapon’s intelligence by a lot, you know.”
Purple Crystal Jade Marrow… could increase a weapon’s spiritual conscious?
Yun Che’s heart suddenly stirred. His Dragon Fault was exactly an Emperor Profound Weapon with a spiritual conscious, but its intelligence was not that high. Currently, it could only automatically return if it left his hand, and release a dragon cry if it was angry. If it possessed a stronger spiritual conscious, he would undoubtedly gain a great benefit.
He had only come for the Phoenix Helianthus, and never expected that he would run into this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow. Even though this underground auction was small, the things it sold were extremely remarkable, no wonder the admission fee was that high.
“Oh! It’s actually the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow!” That young man with the surname Gongsun revealed an excited expression: “This lord has been looking for this item for quite a while, I’d never thought that little Qi Qi has it in hand, and it’s even two of them… As expected of my little Qi Qi! Quick, speak. What is the lowest price for these two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows?”
As Xiao Qi held onto the jade case her charming eyes narrowed into thin slits: “Six hundred purple profound coins. Sir Gongsun ought to understand the preciousness of the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, so this price shouldn’t be considered expensive, right?”
“Six hundred… Mn, this price is indeed generous.” The young man surnamed Gongsun beamed, then executed a half turn while cupping his fists toward his surroundings: “Friends, this humble one is Holy Sword Sect’s Gongsun Yu, I urgently need this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow to raise my beloved sword’s spiritual conscious, and wish that every friend here can be generous enough to allow this humble one to have it.”
Once the words “Holy Sword Sect’s Gongsun Yu” came out, the expressions of many at the scene immediately changed, and the thoughts of bidding against him were also immediately pushed down. Holy Sword Sect could not compare with Divine Phoenix Sect, but it was also one of the famous sects within Divine Phoenix Empire, and a lord that should not be provoked within Divine Phoenix City. And this Gongsun Yi was also the youngest son of the current Holy Sword Sect Master.
A lazy voice sounded at this time: “Lil’ bro Gongsun, since it’s an auction, obviously the highest bidder would win. If you play like that, how’s Miss Xiao Qi going to do business? Miss Xiao Qi isn’t saying anything, but I can’t bear to look on.”
Gongsun Yu was not at all angry upon hearing these words. Instead, he laughed heartily, and cupped a hand toward the person who had spoken: “Brother Nalan’s right, this little brother was only momentarily delighted, and was somewhat overexcited. This absolutely won’t happen again.”
Once the word Nalan was heard, the faces of everyone present changed once more… The Nalan Family was also one of the big shots within Divine Phoenix City, and were even thousand year old friends with Holy Sword Sect. The one who spoke was personally named Nalan Xiong, his status within the Nalan Family was also incomparable great. He seemed to be reprimanding Gongsun Yu, but in fact, they were using the fame of their two families to exert pressure on others present, firmly making them not dare to bid against Gongsun Yu.
“Two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows for six hundred purple profound coins, I’ll take it.” Gongsun Yu said with a face full of smiles.
And at this time, an extremely ordinary, yet inharmonious voice suddenly sounded from one corner: “Seven hundred purple profound coins.”
Gongsun Yu’s brows suddenly tightened. He turned his head around, and his gaze landed on Yun Che’s body. He swept a glance at Yun Che’s profound strength cultivation, then, his eyes flashed with deep disdain… but if the other party was brave enough to bid against him, they might be from an illustrious family, so he didn’t dare to rashly offend him as he said without sounding upset: “Friend, it seems that you are not going to give me, Gongsun Yu, this face?”
Yun Che laughed faintly: “What I want is the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, what does that have to do with your face?”
The corner of Gongsun Yu’s mouth twitched. His complexion distinctly darkened as he sneered: “What you’re saying is quite right, an auction’s fight relies on strength, not face. Since you also want to obtain this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, then we’ll have to see if you have that ability… One thousand purple profound coins!”
Chapter 406 - Phoenix Helianthus
Gongsun Yu raised the price to one thousand purple profound coins in a single breath, then glared at Yun Che. If this was an auction in the Black Moon Merchant Guild, he would never dare to have the slightest bit of arrogance, but in this underground auction, with his Holy Sword Sect’s fame, he felt supremely qualified to be arrogant and overbearing. He absolutely did not expect that a mere Earth Profound Realm would dare to challenge his bid after his warning.
With Holy Sword Sect’s fame added to his great wealth and sudden increase in bid price, he thought that Yun Che would definitely be deterred, and did not expect the other party’s expression to not change at all as he called out with incomparable calm: “Eleven hundred purple profound coins!”
Casually calling out a bid more than a thousand purple profound coins was definitely not something one could do without a deep and powerful background. As a son of the Sect Master of Holy Sword Sect, Gongsun Yu received about twenty thousand profound coins yearly, which was was necessary for an entire year’s worth of training needs. Taking out one thousand to buy the two pieces of Purple Crystal Jade Marrow was already his limit, and had furthermore significantly exceeded the value of the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow. But having acted arrogantly before, yet was now mercilessly counterbidded, wouldn’t all his face be thrown away if he allowed himself to be so easily suppressed?
Gongsun Yu gritted his teeth anxiously, but maintained a calm facade as he called out: “Twelve hundred purple profound coins.”
“Fifteen hundred! Without the slightest pause or hesitation, Yun Che called out right after Gongsun Yu’s bid.
The faces of everyone in the room changed slightly, and Xiao Qi beamed like a flowering crabapple blossom. Previously she did not place much attention on Yun Che, but now the gaze she used upon Yun Che was tender, and her beautiful eyes almost started tearing up.
Gongsun Yu’s face finally became unsightly. Fifteen hundred purple profound coins was his expenditure for an entire month. Using that money to purchase two Purple Crystal Jade Marrows would have far surpassed his bottom line. Purple Veined Heaven Crystals were the purest of essence bred by purple profound crystal mines, and Purple Crystal Jade Marrows were only secondary. Fifteen hundred purple profound coins was enough to buy fifty grams of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals, so buying this purple crystal stone marrow was simply throwing away money.
He turned around and said with a fake smile: “Friend, judging by how heroic you are, I assume that you your family must be quite illustrious. It’s not as if this one is saying that he knows of every prominent family within Divine Phoenix City, but I probably know most of them, yet you are very unfamiliar. Are you from outside the city? Oh, judging by your attire, could you be a friend from one of the six nations?”
Yun Che obviously knew what this Gongsun Yu was intending to do. He inwardly sneered, and did not avoid the question as he directly answered: “Your assumption is correct. I am not a Divine Phoenix citizen, and instead is from the east Blue Wind Nation. But me coming from there doesn’t really have anything to do with this auction, right?”
Blue Wind citizen?
Everyone in the room had originally been guessing at where Yun Che had come from. They thought that since he had been so liberal with his money and was not afraid of challenging Gongsun Yu, his family background ought to be extraordinary. Now that they had heard he was actually from Blue Wind Nation, there were none who did not reveal expressions of extreme disdain, even so much that some had expressions of mockery. As citizens of Divine Phoenix Nation, they had an instinctive contempt for those of other nations. Furthermore, of the six nations, Blue Wind was the weakest. In their eyes, a Blue Wind citizen would always be people of a lower class.
“Oh… Oh! Hahahaha, looks like it’s a friend from Blue Wind Nation.” Gongsun Yu immediately laughed wildly as his previous unpleasant feeling of being suppressed by Yun Che was instantaneously swept clean: “No wonder you’re so set on this Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, I’m assuming you’ve never seen such a high quality treasure in your Blue Wind Nation, right? Since that’s the case, then this one is obviously willing to give way… only this one is a bit curious, what do you need Purple Crystal Jade Marrows for? Could it be that your reason is the same as mine, to raise the spiritual conscious of your weapon? Oh, no, in your Blue Wind Nation, a Sky Profound Weapon ought to be the most valuable of treasures, so you can’t really use these Purple Crystal Jade Marrows for that. Besides, your profound strength is only at the Earth Profound Realm, hehe, it seems unlikely that you can even control a Sky Profound Weapon… As for being the power source of a profound ark… Eh? Blue Wind Nation actually has someone who is able to afford to operate a profound ark?”
The room immediately filled with unrestrained roars of laughter. In front of a Blue Wind citizen, even those at the lowest position would involuntarily have a kind of superior feeling. Why would they need to conceal their contempt for a lower class person?
After announcing that he was a Blue Wind citizen, Yun Che obviously knew that this kind of scene would arise. There was not a single change in his expression, and without bothering to talk rubbish with these people, he took out fifteen hundred purple profound coins, then received the jade case that contained two pieces of Purple Crystal Jade Marrow from Xiao Qi’s hands. Purple Crystal Jade Marrows of good quality were only produced from large purple crystal mines, and possessed a fixed amount of natural spiritual nature, so they ought to be able to increase a weapon’s spiritual conscious. It was just unknown as to how much of an extent it could raise. If the effects were distinct, then he’ll try to get some more.
And the following item for auction was the reason why Yun Che had come!
Xiao Qi took a jade case from the elderly man behind her, and said with a face full of smiles: “The second treasure is a medicinal ingredient. Even though it isn’t as grand as the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, it’s actually more uncommon than the Purple Crystal Jade Marrow, you know.”
As she said that, Xiao Qi had already opened the jade case, and a flame shaped plant appeared in their line of sight with a flickering red radiance. Right after, the jade case was immediately closed, to prevent its medicinal aura from leaking.
“Oh, it’s actually a Phoenix Helianthus!” Someone exclaimed.
Hearing the two words “Phoenix Helianthus”, Yun Che’s gaze landed atop that jade case.. Looks like he could leave early.
“Right, this is the Phoenix Helianthus, and it’s even one that has just matured, a Phoenix Helianthus without the slightest of damage, you know.” Xiao Qi said while beaming: “Everyone here should know that not only is the Phoenix Helianthus used in medicine, used to refine the meridians, and temporarily open profound entrances, it also greatly helps those who cultivate in fire attribute profound arts break any bottlenecks. It’s just that once a Phoenix Helianthus appears, they’re always immediately taken away by Divine Phoenix Sect. And this one that I’m holding is the only Phoenix Helianthus in Divine Phoenix Empire that’s not of the Divine Phoenix Sect. You wouldn’t even be able to buy one in the Black Moon Merchant Guild… So, sirs, you mustn’t miss this opportunity! Otherwise, you’ll have to wait until next year at around this time to have the chance to buy it again.”
Xiao Qi’s words sounds somewhat exaggerated, but Yun Che knew that it was not at all false, because he had went to Black Moon Merchant Guild yesterday, and the Phoenix Helianthus was indeed not there. After Xiao Qi finished speaking, he immediately called out: “What’s the minimum price?”
Xiao Qi’s liquid eyes slightly shifted in Yun Che’s direction, she said softly: “Looks like this sir from Blue Wind Nation is also very interested in this Phoenix Helianthus. The minimum price for this Phoenix Helianthus is one thousand purple profound coins.”
Even though Phoenix Helianthus were rare, they were absolutely not first-rate medicine. Furthermore, in terms of using it in medicine, it was extremely troublesome and had a high leakage rate. In regards to those who cultivate in fire attribute profound arts, it wasn’t exactly that useful, so the price of a thousand purple profound coins was indeed too high. It was evident that the sky high price was due to it being “the last Phoenix Helianthus”, so those in the room did not show the least bit interest. But as soon as Xiao Qi finished her sentence, Yun Che followed up: “Two thousand purple profound coins, I’ll take it!”
With ten million purple profound coins at his disposal, Yun Che’s confidence was incomparably ample. He only wanted to quickly take this Phoenix Helianthus, and didn’t want to waste any more time… the ranking tournament would start in half a month. To him, every minute and every second was extremely precious.
“The hell!” Many people at the scene muttered out.
Spent one thousand five hundred profound coins to buy two pieces of Purple Crystal Jade Marrow… and now readily buying one Phoenix Helianthus for two thousand purple profound coins…
Was this Blue Wind brat rich or was his brain messed up!?
After announcing that it was one thousand purple profound coins, Xiao Qi was extremely nervous at heart, because she knew that this price was indeed a bit too high. But she never expected that as soon as she finished speaking, the price would directly double! She instantly burst with joy, and even her face had become brighter. “To have immediately bid two thousand purple profound coins, this sir from Blue Wind Nation is indeed magnanimous. This one just so happens to like this type of gentleman… Is there anyone else who wishes to put forth a higher price? This is this year’s last Phoenix Helianthus, you know. If you miss this opportunity, even if you have even more money, you can’t buy anymore…”
The others were all quiet… What a joke, aside from a fire attribute profound art reaching a bottleneck or someone urgently needing to refine an important medicine, who would spend more than two thousand purple profound coins to buy a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus? Seeing that no one replied, Xiao Qi walked toward Yun Che while beaming: “Congratulations, Sir. This Phoenix Helianthus is yours, you’d better hold properly!”
Yun Che cleanly handed over two thousand purple profound coins, and then took the jade case containing the Phoenix Helianthus… With the Phoenix Helianthus in his possession, today’s objective had already been reached. What came next, was only him finding a place to refine the Universal Pellet with the Sky Poison Pearl. After that, he would use two or three days to refine it. His profound strength ought to reach the pinnacle of the Earth Profound Realm, which would greatly help when he faced off against the Divine Phoenix Sect.
As for the things being sold next, he was no longer interested. Just as Yun Che was preparing to leave, a loud laughter came from outside: “Hahahaha! Miss Xiao Qi, I’m so sorry, I met a few people who didn’t have their eyes opened on the road, so I taught them a little lesson, which is why I’m late. I hope Miss Xiao Qi doesn’t take offense.”
This sound was thick and heavy, and was clearly filled with might. Following the sound of this voice, a tall and sturdy figure wearing light armor strided in. This person appeared to be around thirty years old, even though his build could not compare with Xia Yuanba’s, it was still especially burly. Especially his exposed muscles, each and every one of them bulged up high, and they seemed to flicker with a luster similar to that of metal, making those who had only used their eyes to glance upon him feel an explosive strength.
His hair was red, and each of its strands stood erect towards the sky like an ignited flame. His body also emitted a thick aura of a fire attribute profound art.
As soon as this tall man appeared, the faces of everyone in the room distinctively changed, even the expression of the previously arrogant Gongsun Yu tightened, revealing a deep fear.
When Xiao Qi saw this person, it was as if she saw her biological father. All her facial features beamed with a smile as she gracefully moved up to welcome him: “Aiyo! Sir Zhi, what’re you saying? You coming here is an honor built by all of this one’s lifetime incarnations, how could I possible blame you… Come, Sir Zhi, quickly come up and have a seat. The auction has only just begun, the highlight of today has not come yet. I believe Sir Zhi would definitely be interested in today’s highlight, you definitely did not come here in vain!”
“Who’s this guy that’s so arrogant looking?” A person seated to Yun Che’s right asked his companion in a low voice.
“Didn’t you hear Miss Xiao Qi call him ‘Sir Zhi’!? He’s obviously someone from Roasting Sun Sect!”
“What! Roasting Sun Sect? Divine Phoenix Empire’s number two sect, second only to the Divine Phoenix Sect?”
“Right! This person is named Zhi Yan, seventh young master of Roasting Sun Sect! His innate talent is extremely monstrous. He’s only twenty eight this year, and is already half a step into the Emperor Profound Realm. It has even been said that he’s already going for the Emperor Profound Realm! In Divine Phoenix Empire, aside from the Divine Phoenix Sect, there is no one who would dare provoke him.”
“The highlight Miss Xiao Qi speaks of obviously needs to be seen, but the main reason why this young master came here today is for the Phoenix Helianthus in Miss Xiao Qi’s hands.” Zhi Yan said loftily: “This young master’s Emperor Profound bottleneck has already loosened, and breaking through is near at hand. I urgently need a Phoenix Helianthus to assist me, but that wretch Divine Phoenix Sect has already swept up all the Phoenix Helianthus. Fortunately, Miss Xiao Qi just happens to have one here. This Phoenix Helianthus, this young master here is taking it for sure. If anyone wants to fight over it with this young master… hehe.”
What kind of person Zhi Yan was had nothing to do with Yun Che. He had already gotten up from his seat and was about to turn around and leave, but once he heard the two words “Phoenix Helianthus” from Zhi Yan’s mouth, Yun Che’s steps immediately halted…
Son of a bitch!
Chapter 407 - Overbearing
Xiao Qi totally didn’t know that Zhi Yan came for the Phoenix Helianthus, otherwise, she definitely would not have sold it before his arrival. However, she was not the least bit panicked as she laughed: “Looks like Sir Zhi just happens to need a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus, you should’ve told me earlier, you know. As long as Sir Zhi opens his mouth, this one would’ve personally delivered it to you at your doorsteps. But unfortunately, the Phoenix Helianthus in this one’s hands has just been sold to another gentleman right before your arrival.”
“What! Sold!?” Zhi Yan’s expression changed as irritation filled his voice: “Sold to who! Who bought it?! It’s the last Phoenix Helianthus, I have to have it no matter what, even if I have to fight for it! Quick, tell me, who did you sell it to?!”
A delighted expression surfaced on the faces of everyone in the room, eyes of mockery all successively shifted towards Yun Che. Xiao Qi said with a smile: “Don’t worry Sir Zhi, the gentleman who just bought the Phoenix Helianthus is still here. Sir Zhi can still have a nice discussion with him. Why, maybe he would even be willing to transfer it to you.”
Xiao Qi slightly turned and swung a hand in Yun Che’s direction: “It’s this gentleman who purchased the last Phoenix Helianthus from this one’s hands for two thousand purple profound coins. Whether or not this gentleman wishes to transfer it to you will depend on Sir Zhi.”
Zhi Yan’s gaze instantly shifted toward Yun Che. After probing his profound strength cultivation, an incomparably clear disdain hug on his face. He came over with huge strides as his entire body released a mighty pressure that would even make a middle stage Sky Profound practitioner find it difficult to breathe: “You’re the one who bought the Phoenix Helianthus? Hmph, you have also heard what I just said earlier. Give the Phoenix Helianthus in your hands to me. Don’t worry, I won’t give you a coin less than the money you used to purchase the Phoenix Helianthus, or else people will say that my Roasting Sun Sect bullies the weak!”
From Zhi Yan’s manner of speaking, he was absolutely not discussing, rather, he was roughly commanding him in a typical tone of voice that came from a strong practitioner to a weak. Yun Che’s expression did not change as he said indifferently: “My apologies, this Phoenix Helianthus is extremely important to me, I won’t be transferring it to you.”
“Hm?” Zhi Yan clearly had never thought that a weak practitioner at merely the Earth Profound Realm would actually dare refuse him, even under the premise that he would not pay a coin less. He didn’t immediately explode, turning his head, he said to Xiao Qi: “Where’s this kid from? Seems like he’s not willing to give me face!”
Before Xiao Qi could reply, Gongsun Yu said delightfully: “Seventh Young Master Zhi, this kid’s obviously not from any ordinary background, or else how could he dare have the confidence to not yield to Seventh Young Master Zhi. Tsk tsk, he’s actually an esteemed guest from the eastern Blue Wind Nation. Hehe, against this esteemed guest from another nation, Seventh Young Master Zhi treat him a bit gentler, in the manner of our great nation, of course.”
“Blue Wind Nation? Hahahaha…”
Once he heard the name “Blue Wind Nation”, Zhi Yan started laughing right away… Previously, when Yun Che had revealed that he was from Blue Wind Nation, Gongsun Yu and company had all erupted in laughter as well, as if the name “Blue Wind Nation” was not a nation’s name, but rather synonymous with a joke.
Growing up in Blue Wind Nation, Yun Che never really felt it, but once he arrived in Divine Phoenix Empire, that was when he realized how much of a miserable existence Blue Wind Nation’s status was in the Profound Sky Continent. Only the words “lowly”, and even “ridiculous” could be used to describe it. He had finally understood why Cang Wanhe had such a deeply resigned, frustrated, and grieved expression on his face when he mentioned the “Seven Nation Ranking Tournament…
People usually had a protective instinct toward their native homeland, and Yun Che obviously was not an exception. The nation he had grown up in was being willfully sneered at and held in contempt by these people as a completely inferior nation… He was incapable of not being filled with rage. However, compared to Divine Phoenix Empire, Blue Wind Nation was indeed just too weak. The disparity between them was like a lamb and a male lion, this was an inevitable fact.
Zhi Yan originally was afraid that Yun Che’s background was extraordinary, which would cause him trouble, but now that he knew Yun Che was from Blue Wind Nation, why would he feel the least bit worried? He said overbearingly: “Kid! This young master’s patience is awfully limited, hurry up and give me the Phoenix Helianthus. If this young master loses all his patience, don’t even mention the Phoenix Helianthus, you won’t even be getting half a profound coin back.”
“Heh! Kid, what kind of status does Seventh Young Master Zhi have? Him agreeing to even speak to you is already a great honor, you’d better not fail to appreciate his kindness.” Gongsun Yu sarcastically said on the side.
Xiao Qi quickly faced Yun Che, and said softly: “Sir, Sir Zhi urgently needs this Phoenix Helianthus, so just give it to him. I believe that Sir Zhi will definitely be grateful, and maybe you two might even become friends!”
Yun Che narrowed his eyes, his voice was still extremely flat: “I said it before, I need this Phoenix Helianthus, not transferring.”
“Very well… Looks like you’re refusing a toast and want to drink some punishment wine instead! I’ll ask you one last time, are you going to give it to me or not?!” All the muscles on Zhi Yan’s body bunched up as his face filled with anger.
Yun Che said coldly: “I was the one who bought the Phoenix Helianthus, so it already belongs to me. I have the final say in what will be done to it! And it’s not you telling me to give, that I’ll give! If you want a Phoenix Helianthus, go look elsewhere, I don’t have time to keep you company.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che immediately turned around with the intent to leave.
“You have the final say? Hahahaha…” Zhi Yan laughed wildly: “Naive kid, your daddy here will properly give you a lesson today. No matter what, in this world, it’s always the one with the harder fist who has the final say!”
Zhi Yan extended a hand, grabbing toward Yun Che’s shoulder. His arm was much more thicker than Yun Che’s thigh. In comparison, Yun Che’s build was simply too frail, as if it was not able to withstand a single blow. He laughed evilly, and just as he was about to grab at Yun Che’s shoulder to lift him up, when he used force, Yun Che actually did not move one bit. Zhi Yan’s eyes widened. The muscles on his arms instantly bulged as his veins popped out and he fiercely lifted… yet Yun Che’s body still did not move one bit. Let alone being lifted, he didn’t even move a single step.
Zhi Yan was inwardly shocked. Even though he faintly sensed that this was unusual, he got even more angrier as he said in exasperation: “I’ll let you have a taste of how hard your daddy’s fists are!”
He released his hand from Yun Che’s shoulder, then formed his grip into a fist. His fist ignited with purple flame as he violently punched toward Yun Che. Beneath the faint agitation, he used no less than ninety nine percent of his strength in this fist, not caring at all if Yun Che died on the spot… The other party was only an inferior profound practitioner from Blue Wind Nation anyway, even if he died, there would be no repercussions.
“Sir Zhi!” Zhi Yan’s actions made Xiao Qi let out an alarmed cry. The others were also shocked. The entire room screeched with profound energy under Zhi Yan’s fist, and it was obvious that he had used all of his strength… No one present had the confidence that they could withstand this fist, and it was very likely that Yun Che would directly become meat paste after this strike.
Bang!!
Zhi Yan’s purple flame ignited fist firmly smashed onto Yun Che’s chest, and released an extremely dull thud. Under the dispersing profound energy, the entire room violently trembled and all the chairs that were not sat on all shattered without exception. A long crack had even appeared on the marble tiles beneath their feet.
How could the strength from someone half a step into the Emperor Profound Realm be minor? It made everyone present tremble with fear. In their apprehension, they were even more shocked that Zhi Yan would use such a heavy hand toward a mere Earth Profound practitioner from Blue Wind Nation. This seemed to be a bit too much, but once they glanced toward Yun Che, they were instantly dumbfounded and they did not dare to believe their own eyes.
Zhi Yan’s hand was still on Yun Che’s chest, but Yun Che wasn’t knocked flying at all. He didn’t even move back half a step, nor did his expression change at all. Instead, the face of Zhi Yan in front of him that was originally filled with arrogance, was unexpectedly covered with an extremely twisted expression… At this time, the light armor on his right arm was suddenly shattered into fragments. Streams and streams of blood rushed out like a flood released from a dam, instantly dyeing his entire arm red.
It was as if Zhi Yan had woken up from a nightmare. He stumbled backwards, and grasped at his perception that he had already lost as his right arm drooped down. He let out a painful moan that he tried his best to stifle as both his pupils enlarged, brimming with deep terror: “You… You…”
“This fist of yours doesn’t seem to be that great.” Yun Che extended a hand and patted the clothes on his chest with a revulsed face. Then, his expression suddenly turned cold as he smashed a fist at Zhi Yan.
Zhi Yan instinctively held out his left arm to block it, but with Yun Che’s Great Way of the Buddha, even if he didn’t use profound energy, his raw arm strength reached up to a terrifying ten thousand kilograms. How was Zhi Yan capable of blocking it? Only a “crack” was heard as Zhi Yan’s arm bones were broken into several pieces. He let out a miserable shriek like that of a dying pig as he was ferociously struck flying, and his entire body sunk deep into the stone wall in the back.
No matter what, they had never expected this kind of scene. Everyone were was stupefied on the spot… What kind of status did Zhi Yan have? What kind of monstrosity was he?! Seventh Young Master of Roasting Sun Sect, half a step into the Emperor Profound at twenty eight years of age! He instantly suffered a crushing defeat beneath Yun Che’s hand, and could not fight back at all!
It was absolutely not because Zhi Yan was weak, or that he had held back; the fist he smashed at Yun Che obviously contained all his strength… Instead, it was because the strength of this Blue Wind practitioner, that they had held in contempt and ridicule, was just too terrifying! Zhi Yan’s attack that contained all his strength had actually not harmed a single hair on his body! Yet his casual fist, had directly shattered the bones on Zhi Yan’s arm… What kind of terrifying body and strength was that?!
A chill rushed up their back… they had always been looking down and sneering at such a terrifying freak! Especially Gongsun Yu, his entire person sat glued to his seat, his complexion was deathly white, and under his shock, his body did not dare to move a single inch.
Yun Che’s figure swayed, and then had already arrived at Zhi Yan’s front. He extended his arm to grab at his throat; as though he was lifting a chick, Zhi Yan’s robust body was directly pulled out from the stone wall, then was fiercely smashed on the ground. He lowered his gaze to look at the bloody-faced Zhi Yan and said indifferently: “Do you still want the Phoenix Helianthus in my hands?”
Before Zhi Yan regained his senses, he had already been directly smashed into serious injuries by Yun Che. He laid on the ground, gasping for breath: “I am… Roasting Sun Sect’s Seventh Young Master… If… If you dare to touch me, Roasting Sun Sect… will never let you get away with it!”
Yun Che narrowed his eyes, and laughed coldly: “Your words are not bad, the one with the harder fist is the one who has the final say in all matters of this world. Yet someone who does not have enough power still dares to be arrogant, now that’s seeking death!!”
As Yun Che’s voice fell, he stomped a leg onto Zhi Yan’s chest. Zhi Yan’s eyes bulged out as he violently spurted out a spray of blood.
“Stop!!”
The gray haired elderly man who had always stood behind Xiao Qi yelled out, and suddenly took action. A streak of cold light launched toward Yun Che… immediately after, a Throne level might enveloped the entire room. Since the matter had grown to such a state, he definitely could not watch on without lifting a finger. Otherwise, if something permanent happened to Zhi Yan, it was extremely possible for Roasting Sun Sect to take out their anger on Falling Flame Merchant Guild.
“Get out of the way!”
Even though this gray haired old man was a genuine Throne, he was only at the first level of the Emperor Profound Realm, a low level Throne. To Yun Che, he was simply not a threat at all. Without even turning his head, he flung out his arm and a Phoenix Break broke through the air, colliding with that streak of cold light. The cold light completely dispersed instantly, yet Phoenix Break had not diminished at all as it directly smashed at the elderly man’s chest. Startled, the old man hurriedly blocked. After retreating seven or eight steps back, did he barely manage to withstand Phoenix Break’s might. However, both his sleeves had been burnt to a crisp.
“This is… phoenix flame!” The elderly man said in shock: “You’re from the Divine Phoenix Sect!”
Everyone clearly saw and felt the phoenix flame Yun Che had flung out. That was undoubtedly the phoenix flame, it was impossible to falsify, and phoenix flame was a profound flame that only the Divine Phoenix Sect possessed! Someone who was capable of releasing phoenix flames could only be a member of the Divine Phoenix Sect! A person at the pinnacle of the entire Divine Phoenix Empire!
“Hmph!” Yun Che snorted coldly. He didn’t reply, and obviously was not dumb enough to deny it.
Zhi Yao knew that he had kicked upon an iron plate. Under his remaining shock, all he thought was how he was going to dismember Yun Che’s body into ten thousand pieces someday. But once he personally saw Yun Che fling out that phoenix flame, his entire body trembled acutely… He would never be able to return this hatred. Divine Phoenix Sect was an existence that Roasting Sun Sect absolutely could not afford to provoke. His Roasting Sun Sect was known as the number two sect in Divine Phoenix, but the difference in strength between the two was as different as the sky and earth.
“So… So it’s a brother from the Divine Phoenix Sect… It was I, who had eyes but did not see. These injuries are not at all unjust…” Zhi Yan had on a begging attitude. How could he possibly be the least bit arrogant and forceful? “If I had known earlier that it was a brother from Divine Phoenix Sect… even if I had guts as large as the sky, I wouldn’t dare to offend you… If brother doesn’t feel satisfied, please leave me your sound transmission imprint. I… I will personally visit with a gift to apologize another day…”
Being beaten until his bones were shattered, organs receiving injuries, yet still needed to anxiously apologize. This was the huge deterrence and influence Divine Phoenix Sect had in Divine Phoenix Empire. Everyone else in the room had already stood up, and firmly stood in place. They did not even dare to breath in too deeply as they looked at Yun Che with eyes filled with reverence. As for Gongsun Yu, who had been continuously sneering at Yun Che, he was sweating profusely. Both his legs quaked and it seemed as if they would collapse at any time.
That elderly man stepped forward and said while trembling: “For an esteemed customer from Divine Phoenix Sect to be here, this old man had eyes but failed to recognize Mt. Tai, and even allowed esteemed customer to be disturbed. I truly… deserve death… Xiao Qi, what are you staring blankly for? Why haven’t you given him back his profound coins?”
“Ye… yes.” Xiao Qi was also somewhat pale with nervousness as she fumbled to get the purple profound coins.
“No need.” Yun Che moved his leg away from Zhi Yan’s chest, “You don’t need to be that nervous. I am not the type of trash near my feet that relies on force to bully another. As long as others don’t provoke me, I won’t bother to provoke others… You may continue.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che no longer paid any attention to anyone as he turned around and walked toward the exit. Everyone followed him with his eyes as he stepped out while secretly heaving a sigh of relief. No one dared to say anything, lest it catch his attention.
Once he arrived in front of Gongsun Yu, Yun Che suddenly tilted his head and coldly looked him in the eye. With a startled cry, both of Gongsun Yu’s legs went limp as he fell on the ground with his butt… Only until Yun Che had walked very far away did he recover his senses. He had nearly lost control of his bladder.
Divine Phoenix Sect ruled over Divine Phoenix Nation for five thousand years, its fame had long been well-established. It’s deterrent force was at a level that other nations were unable to understand… Yun Che couldn’t help but sigh in his heart. If the Blue Wind Emperor was also this strong, the previous turmoil in the imperial family wouldn’t have happened.
Just as he was about to exit the room, a peculiar sensation suddenly came from behind. Yun Che’s footsteps paused, and instantly turned around. Seeing every face filled with reverence, with a few terrified ones, his gaze briefly swept past each and every person. After slightly knitting his brows, he left with slow steps.
Chapter 408 - What Kind of a God
Upon exiting Falling Flame Merchant Guild, Yun Che’s figure quickly submerged into the stream of people within Divine Phoenix City’s streets. With the Phoenix Helianthus already in hand, what he had to do next was not complicated, which was finding a quiet place where he would not be disturbed.
At this time, the advancing Yun Che’s footsteps suddenly stopped as he turned around as fast as lightning. His sharp eyes sweep his rear, but his gaze didn’t find anything different, even that minute strand of sensation had also faded away without a trace.
Was he mistaken?
Impossible, how could he possible be mistaken when it came to things like this.
For example, he felt a peculiar gaze staring at him for an instant earlier. Before he left Falling Flame Merchant Guild, he had also felt the same sensation. This kind of sensation did not come from his perception, instead, it was “instinct”.
It was an acquired instinct born from after being hunted down to the brink of life and death!
If this sort of feeling came from his perception, it could perhaps be his misconception. But since it was a kind of “instinct”, it definitely could not be wrong, because it had saved Yun Che’s life many times before.
However, Yun Che’s lightning fast reaction that searched for the origin of this sensation had actually not gained any profit.
If he wasn’t mistaken, then that could only mean… that the other party was hiding his abilities, and was at a terrifying high level. In the Profound Sky Continent, this was the first time Yun Che could not sense his target’s existence after his detection.
Who exactly is it… why are they staring at me? In Divine Phoenix City, there shouldn’t be anyone who would recognize me.
“Jasmine, do you sense anyone following me?” Yun Che said in a low voice.
“Jasmine?”
“Sleeping… don’t bother me!”
“……”
Yun Che wrinkled his nose, withdrew his gaze, and directly advanced onward.
A barely noticeable figure not even sixty meters away behind Yun Che slowly raised his head from within the stream of people. His eyes flashed with amazement.
An hour later, Yun Che returned to the inn he had stayed in last night. In this already packed Divine Phoenix city, finding an inn to stay in was indeed extremely difficult, but as long as one was wealthy, even if the population were to double, there still wouldn’t be a problem. The guest room Yun Che stayed in was obtained by him paying thirty times the original price from someone who failed to show up.
“Dear guest, you’ve returned, do you want to go back in your room to take a rest or do you want to have a meal?”
As soon as Yun Che returned back to the inn, a handsome waiter diligently welcomed him. Those who were able stay at such a luxurious inn at this time were all wealth god-like figures, so he obviously had to do his utmost to thoroughly serve him.
“Make me dinner a bit later today, before it gets dark, deliver it directly to my room.” Yun Che replied.
“Alrightie, have a nice rest. Dear guest, if you have any requests, feel free to call out at anytime.” The waiter said politely.
After Yun Che returned to his room, he actually did not go according to his previous plan of immediately beginning to refine the Sky Profound Universal Pellet. Instead, he closed the door, and laid on the bed to sleep. He seemed to be quite exhausted, because not long after he laid down, the sound of snoring gradually surfaced as he entered dreamland.
Yun Che directly slept from the afternoon to evening. It was exactly at this time that a wisp of noiseless and odorless smoke that was unable to be seen with the naked eye slowly floated in from corner of the room’s rear window, and blended in with the air in the room. Yun Che was still sleeping and still snoring. His breathing was even, without the least bit reaction to everything happening.
The light smoke stopped after several tens of breaths. Everything was silent, without any indication that something had happened.
Half a quarter of an hour later, Yun Che’s door was struck.
“Dear guest, the dinner you wanted is here.”
Yun Che was still heavily sleeping, without the slightest of reaction.
“Dear guest… Dear guest? Are you in there?”
The waiter gave the door a soft push. The door had only been closed, not locked, so it opened with one push. The waiter hesitated for a bit, then carefully pushed open the room and came in carrying the dinner.
The sound of the waiter’s footsteps were rather heavy, and the porcelain on tray in his hand also made clashing noises, but the Yun Che laying on the bed continued to not respond. It was evident that he was dead asleep. The waiter put the tray on the table, and after his eyes swept past Yun Che for a while, he slowly walked in Yun Che’s direction. Only this time, his footsteps… were actually noiseless, and his cautious gaze from before changed to that of water’s tranquility.
Yun Che’s breathing was steady, and he was dead asleep. All the sense organs on his body showed not the the slightest sliver of movement. After confirming these, the waiter’s cautious expression loosened a bit. He came over to Yun Che’s bed and reached out his hand to grab at Yun Che’s spatial ring.
In the exact instant his fingers were about to touch Yun Che, Yun Che’s hand suddenly shot out like lightning and grabbed onto the waiter’s wrist. At the same time, his eyes that were closed for an entire afternoon also suddenly opened.
How large of a power did Yun Che’s grip possess? Even if it were a Throne that had been grabbed like this, they fundamentally should not think of easily struggling free. But when Yun Che was about to solidly grab him, he suddenly felt something slip from his palms, as if he had not grabbed onto an arm, but rather a fish! The arm that he had a solid grip on earlier suddenly slipped free from the palm of his hands. Immediately after, the inn’s water jumped up with incomparable nimbleness and dashed out the bamboo window, fleeing away flying.
Yun Che originally wanted to give chase, but as soon as he took a step forward, he stopped, and stared ahead in a daze… because this person’s speed was just too fast, fast to such a level that it was inconceivable. He only used the short time of an instant to escape from his grip, then nimbly flew out, and that was also something that only took an instant to happen. This person’s silhouette had already become a small dot within his line of sight…
His profound strength was not that strong, it was more or less at the middle stages of the Sky Profound Realm, but the speed he displayed completely surpassed Sky Profound level. It was even faster than the Snow Phoenix Beast by several times… the fastest person Yun Che had ever seen in the Profound Sky Continent.
A flurry of hurried footsteps sounded, and the inn’s waiter opened the door upon hearing the noise from earlier. He asked in alarm: “Dear guest, what happened?”
The waiter before him looked exactly the same as the waiter that had fled. Even his expressions and voice practically had no differences. Yun Che shook his head: “Nothing. Tell someone to help me fix the window. I will pay for the damaged window.”
After telling the inn’s waiter to leave, Yun Che stood by the window side, eyed the spatial ring in his hand, and pondered for a while. He wore the spatial ring to conceal the Sky Poison Pearl, nothing was actually in there. Looks like he was not mistaken about his previous feeling that someone had been tailing him. And this person’s tailing, concealment, ability to easily change appearance and voice, and even his ability to place a sleeping mist could be said to be in a top-notch realm. His ability to escape had given Yun Che a direct blow, and his speed was quick to the extreme…
What kind of person was he? Why was he targeting me?
The first time he felt like someone had been staring at him was back when he was about to leave Falling Flame Merchant Guild. Which meant that this person was also inside Falling Flame Merchant Guild, and was within the group of people present…
Yun Che’s brows sunk… The changing of appearance and voice, sleeping mist, ability to escape and speed… They were clearly all skills of an expert thief! And being targeted by such a frightening thief obviously was not a light matter. This thief had tailed him back the entire way, and had even schemed this hard, it was evident that he possessed something that this thief was extremely interested in. Then… he probably wouldn’t give up after failing once. He ought to be coming back again.
Not long after, the window repairmen arrived. Yun left the inn. After thinking for a while, he headed straight for the direction of Falling Flame Merchant Guild. Since that person had followed him, then he probably had left closely after his departure from Falling Flame Merchant Guild. This meant that he could only inquire about who had left after him and perhaps discover something.
Dusk had already fallen, yet the streets were still as clamorous as before. Upon reaching the Falling Flame Merchant Guild area, did it become secluded. Yun Che chose to walk on a few streets with few pedestrians, and at this time, the shriek of a young woman sounded: “Save me… Save me…”
“Hehehehe, you’ve fallen into this great lord’s hands, yet you’re thinking of escaping! Hahahaha…”
At a corner in front of him, a young woman was hurriedly running over. The young woman was dressed in blue. With a peach blossom face and a pair of clear eyes, she could be considered a beauty that would enchant a man instantly, and make him feel tenderness. Behind her was a middle aged man with a solid stature who was leisurely chasing after her. Lewd laughs came out from his mouth, as though he was currently playing a cat catch mouse game.
That young woman looked at Yun Che as if she had sudden found the last straw of hope from within her despair. She ran over as if her life depended on it, hid behind Yun Che, and pleaded: “Sir, please be merciful and save me, that evil bully, he… he was improper toward me… Sir, please save me…”
Yun Che held out a hand, hid the woman behind him, and then coldly looked at the man who chased over before his eyes. He said righteously: “Don’t be scared miss, with me here, that guy should not even think of touching a single strand on your hair… Sigh! In the peaceful broad moonlight where everything is clear, you actually dare to openly assault a woman of good family on the street, you’re audacious to the extreme, and simply unforgivable.”
“Hahahaha!” That middle aged man laughed heartily: “Kid, you haven’t even grown any hair, yet you even dare to copy other people’s ‘hero saving a beauty’? Hurry up and scram outta this daddy’s sight, otherwise, this daddy’ll take care of you first.”
“You’re seeking death!” Yun Che was furious. With just one step, he smashed his fist out. The sound of a deafening screech immediately followed his clenched fists that ruthlessly struck the middle age man’s chest. The middle aged man’s eyes abruptly widened as he smothered a groan and flew out into the distance, then fainted on the spot.
“Ah…” That young woman immediately let out a surprised cry.
“Hmph!” Yun Che withdrew his hand and said in disdain: “Just with this much of an ability, yet dares to come out to do evil, he’s truly bringing about his own doom.” He turned around and said in concern: “Miss, are you okay?”
That young lady saluted fully and said in a sobbing voice filled with fear and appreciation: “Sir, thank you for saving me… May I ask for sir’s great name? This little one will definitely pay back your great kindness.”
“Heh heh, it was barely any effort, don’t worry about it.” Yun Che said casually. His gaze fell downward, revealing an appreciative gaze for beautiful women: “May I ask for this miss’s name?”
The young woman said softly: “This little one is named Yan Xiaohua.”
“Yan Xiaohua…” Yun Che beamed: “Miss is so beautiful and doesn’t even cultivate in the profound. It’s too dangerous for you to be outside alone, you’d best be a bit more careful in the future.”
The young woman sighed as she revealed a grieved expression: “This little one usually stays inside her chambers and rarely goes out. But today, my father…”
Just as the young woman was in the middle of her narration, Yun Che, who had been quietly listening attentively, suddenly smashed a palm toward the young woman’s chest. The distance between the two was not even three feet and the palm Yun Che shot out was done without warning, so not only was the other party preoccupied in her narration, a young woman also should not have the ability to dodge this strike.
Bang!
However, even with such a suddenly strike, Yun Che actually hit thin air.
A deafening sound resounded, immediately jolting the surrounding space into trembling. The young woman before him had disappeared, only leaving an afterimage that had not faded. As for the true body, it had already shifted three meters away in that short instant, then fled far away as quick as lightning.
He had previously escaped from Yun Che’s hands before, but how could Yun Che possible allow himself to fail once again? In the very instant he felt that he had struck empty air, he had already reacted in a split second…
“Dragon Soul Domain!!”
A sky shaking dragon cry resounded as the surrounding one hundred fifteen meter of space around him was instantly enveloped in the mighty pressure of an undefiable dragon’s soul. The entire body of the escaping “young woman” quaked, as she revealed an expression of terror. She had powerlessly fallen from the air… and just as she was about to fall to the ground, Yun Che had already quickly launched a Phoenix Break at her chest.
Poof!!
The protective clothing worn by the “young woman” instantly shattered, as she spat out a long bloody arrow and heavily landed on the ground. Yun Che’s figure swayed, then he was already at her side. He stepped on the core of her profound veins, not allowing her to channel profound energy.
“Who exactly are you, why are you targeting me?!” Yun Che asked coldly, yet the waves in his heart could not be quieten down. Under that sort of situation, Yun Che believed that even if it was he himself, it was probably impossible for him to dodge his abrupt strike earlier, yet not a corner of this person’s clothes had been touched.
He could help but acknowledge that if it were not for the fact that he possessed the heaven defying Dragon Soul Domain, it would be impossible for him to capture this ghost-like person.
“Heh heh…”
The “young woman” opened her mouth, and what came out was clearly a man’s voice. He wasn’t resentful, nor was he angry, instead, he was laughing with a tranquil expression: “In all my life… I had never fallen… Even eight Overlords who have chased me for seven days and seven nights had ever touched a single hair on my head… Yet today… I had actually fallen at you… a mere Earth Profound kid’s hand… I can’t help but say one word… Impressive…”
Yun Che was inwardly startled… Escaping the pursuit of eight Overlords for seven days and seven nights without a single injury. In the entire Profound Sky Continent, how many people could do that? And to even make a full eight Overlords not hesitate to team up to kill him… What kind of a god was this person beneath his feet?!
Chapter 409 - One Kneel
“You don’t have bother saying all that to distract me.” Yun Che said coldly as he exerted more pressure on the body beneath his foot: “Give me the medicinal powder in your hands too. A mere illusion poison like Dream Butterfly is useless against me!”
The “young woman’s” pupils suddenly seemed to contract for a split second as she felt the danger of the situation. The person in front of her had eyes like ice mirrors, it was the first time in her life she had felt such a dreadful sensation of not being able to hide. What she said about being chased by Overlords was exactly for the purpose of distracting Yun Che, and there was indeed a poison powder between the gaps of her right hand fingers.
All these, had actually been seen through!
Especially the Dream Butterfly, which was an odorless and formless hallucinogen, that was between tightly gripped between her fingers without the slightest hint of being visible… it had actually been called out!
“Who… exactly are you?” The “young woman” asked: “You’re obviously not from the Divine Phoenix Sect, yet you can utilize phoenix flames… You ought to truly have come from Blue Wind Nation… But how can Blue Wind Nation have such a person like you…”
Yun Che’s gaze was crystal clear, and only gazed at him coldly. The person beneath his foot knew that she did not have the right to question him, and barely managed to gasp out: “My disguise had never been seen through by anyone… Can you tell me how exactly you saw me through?”
“I can’t compare to your ability to conceal your tracks, aura, and sound,” Yun Che said indifferently, “But in terms of appearance, you are only a bit worse. As long as it’s within six meters of me, if a person was disguising his looks, I can easily see through it with just a glance… Not only do I know that you had changed your appearance, I even know that you are using three layers. Even if you tear off this layer off, the one behind it, and the one behind that are still not your true face… Either you’re so ugly that you’re afraid to be truthfully seen by others, or it’s to conceal your true face for fear that people will know of your true identity…”
“Of course it’s the latter!!” The “young woman” roared emotionally while pulling at her throat: “Look at me disguised as a woman… even if I can’t be considered world-shakingly handsome, just looking at how refreshing and sweet I am would at least say that I’m extraordinarily handsome!! How could I possibly be related to the word ‘ugly’?! You’re ugly… Your entire family’s ugly!”
“Tch!” Yun Che’s mouth twitched, then suddenly released the foot on her body. He turned around and said: “Go.”
The “young man”… Mn, it should be said that the man hastily leapt up from the ground like a carp. He stared at Yun Che’s back with disbelief still visible on his face. Previously, in Falling Flame Merchant Guild, he had personally seen how vicious Yun Che was and originally thought that if he were to land in his hands, he would at least suffer greatly. Never did he expect that he would… release him?
“You’re… you’re releasing me just like that?” He said with wide eyes: “You’re not going to ask who I am? Don’t want to know why I was following you? Re… releasing me just like that?”
“Because you’re not an evil person.” Yun Che replied without turning his head around.
“…How do you know that I’m not an evil person?”
“Hmph, I have seen too many evil people in my lifetime, so I just need a single glance to know if someone is evil.” Yun Che said with half narrowed eyes: “Moreover, you used a sleeping mist instead of a poison mist in the inn. Even though you had been restrained beneath my foot, what you intended to scatter was only an illusion mist. Additionally, there is no killing intent in the gaze you use to look at me… if otherwise, do you really think you could’ve stayed alive til now?”
The man opened his mouth, yet did not seize the chance to escape… Since he had regained his freedom, he was fully confident that even ten Yun Che’s could not catch up to him if he wished to escape. Instead, he took a step forward and asked in puzzlement: “You’re not going to ask why I approached you?”
“I already know why.”
“You… do?”
Yun Che turned around, then looked at him: “You’re here to steal the Phoenix Helianthus on me!”
Yun Che said with firm assertion, not in a questioning way.
“How… How do you know?” The man immediately widened his eyes.
“Such a thing like scent, is usually even more harder to cover up than aura. Volcano Gall, Phoenix Tail Banana, Scorching Blood Fire Ginseng, Purple Yin Samgha, Dragon Reishi Grass, Thousand Insect Purple Asura Vine, Rainy Cloud Flower… These are the medicinal ingredients I smell on your body. Even though you’ve tried your best to eliminate these smells, you’ve touched them all of them within twenty four hours. No matter how you cover it up, there would still be a bit remaining that’s enough for me to distinguish.
The man was completely dumbstruck and stiffened in place as though petrified… All the names of the medicinal ingredients Yun Che had said… none were missing or in excess!!
“If these medicinal ingredients were stored in a spatial ring, not one smell would leak out. This is clearly evident that you had personally come in contact with them, and mixed them together. The results of combining them together would forcefully extend one’s lifespan. In order to prolong someone’s lifespan, it also needs a large amount of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals… It’s only that this forceful longevity would come with an immense pain. In order to keep this pain in check and not conflict with the other ingredients at the same time, only the Phoenix Helianthus that could obstruct all pain in the meridians is able to do that.”
Man: “~！#￥%……”
“You also just happened to start following me after I obtained the Phoenix Helianthus.” Yun Che said indifferently: “Since you approached me for the sake of saving someone’s life and never had any intention of killing me, I too, do not have any reason to make things difficult for you. Stepping on you a few times earlier is enough… You may leave. Stop deluding yourself into thinking that you can steal anything from me.”
After Yun Che finished speaking, he turned around and left.
Up until Yun Che walked more than ten steps, did the man suddenly awaken from his daze. He took a large stride forward and swooshed to Yun Che’s front. It was so fast that Yun Che didn’t even see any afterimages: “Wait, lil’ bro, no wait! Big bro, me offending such a high rank person like yourself was because I overestimated my own abilities, I had eyes but did not see. But… but the Phoenix Helianthus really is extremely important to me, I’m begging you to please give me that Phoenix Helianthus in your hands to me…”
He originally believed that with his abilities, he could’ve easily steal the Phoenix Helianthus from whoever obtained it. He never expected that he would bump into such an absolute monster like Yun Che, and now, he knew that it was impossible for him to steal it from him. Furthermore, Yun Che had magnanimously released him, so he did not have the face to try to play anymore tricks. However, he desperately needed that Phoenix Helianthus even if he had to risk his life to steal it. If stealing didn’t work, the only thing he could do… was beg.
“Don’t worry, I absolutely will not let you give it to me for nothing.” He said with absolute sincerity: “You used two thousand purple profound coins to buy the Phoenix Helianthus from Falling Flame Merchant Guild… I’ll use three thousand… no! Five thousand… no! Ten thousand… I’ll use ten thousand purple profound coins to buy it off you!”
He yelled out an incredibly crazy price, quickly took out a purple shining profound coin card, and looked at Yun Che with a beseeching face.
Yun Che remained unmoved, and slowly shook his head: “If it were any other time, I might’ve been able to transfer it to you. But as of right now, I urgently need this stalk of Phoenix Helianthus to increase my strength. Otherwise, after half a month, I might even lose my life in Divine Phoenix City. Thus, even if you put forth even more money, I would not give it to you.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che directly left.
“Big bro!!”
The man charged forward and firmly gripped his clothes with both hands trembling slightly: “The Phoenix Helianthus in your hands is the last stalk that could be found this year. Please, no matter what, you have to give it to me. If ten thousand purple profound coins is not enough… don’t hesitate to tell me how much you want. As long as I can take that out, I definitely won’t even bat an eye!”
Yun Che resolutely shook his head: “I’ve said it before, it’s not an issue of money. This Phoenix Helianthus concerns my fate. I definitely will not be giving it to anyone else no matter what. Go look elsewhere for one, perhaps you might find another one.”
“If it’s anywhere else that has it, I’ve already gone to all of them.” The man’s face revealed a deep implorement: “Big bro, you have amazing eyes. You even know the exact medicinal ingredients I have come in contact with, so you must know also know how great of a pain would follow after combining them all with Purple Veined Heaven Crystals to extend one’s life. She only has not even one year left to live, my biggest wish right now is to accompany her to pass the last year of her life in peace. How could I possibly have the heart to allow her to suffer through that kind of pain… I went through the greatest amount of efforts, but could only find half a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus. Not only has the other half a stalk of that Phoenix Helianthus been used, its medicinal energy has already substantially dispersed. Its results would be extremely miniscule. My only hope right now lies on that stalk in your hands… Please, I beg of you, give it to me. I swear to god that I’ll definitely repay you back one day.”
Yun Che cast a sidelong glance at him, yet he still shook his head: “Every sort of ability you possess all clearly indicate that you are a genuine thief, but it is evident that your heart is not bad at all. Each one of your words all contain genuine urgency but you, and the person you wish to save, both have nothing to do with me. I am not that generous and benevolent to use an item that is related to the safety of my life to save a total stranger… Just give up, don’t follow me anymore!”
With a swing of his hand, he Star God’s Broken Shadow’d more than thirty meters away.
“Bang!!”
The sound of knees heavily falling to the ground came from behind Yun Che. Yun Che’s footsteps paused, he turned around, and said with furrowed brows: “You…”
The man knelt on both knees. His face filled with a deep beseechment as his eyes swayed with tears: “Big bro, I have never begged anyone before in my entire life, nor have kneeled to anyone… Even when my parents were alive, I never had the time to kneel to them… I’m begging you… have mercy… She really… only has not even a year left… Please, I’m begging you… even if I have to slave for you…”
Yun Che’s heart was fiercely moved… Even though this was the first day he had met this ghost-like figure whom not even eight Overlords could deal with, he understood what his tears and kneeling signified…
That was all of his pride and dignity…
In his entire life, this was indeed the first time he had ever kneeled to anyone. Otherwise, his knees would not be trembling so acutely. He had on an utterly helpless expression, and if he rejected him again, that helplessness would turn into complete despair…
That expression looked extremely close to himself on that day, when he cried painfully toward the sky while embracing Ling’er’s beautiful corpse…
“Huu…” Yun Che inwardly sighed, but no longer took another step onward. He walked over and said: “The person you want to save, who is she to you?”
“…My wife.” Seeing Yun Che walking back toward him, his eyes brightened with a hopeful radiance: “Big bro, I’m begging you, as long as you give me the Phoenix Helianthus, I’ll agree to any condition you put forth.”
“Tell me, what kind of illness has your wife contracted.” Yun Che asked.
“She didn’t contract an illness.” The man shook his head as his expression grew pained: “Five years ago, our entire family was secretly ambushed by enemies. Both my parents were murdered. They used their lives so my wife and I could escape, but my wife was severely injured at that time, and had been infected by a strange incurable cold poison. All these years, I’ve been doing my utmost so she could continue living on, but this kind of life expansion still cannot persist for long. This year is already the limit…”
“Secretly ambushed?” Yun Che was slightly surprised: “You are an expert in stealth attacks so your parents ought to be even stronger than you. How could you possibly end up this way? Five years ago, your skills shouldn’t be that lower than what you possess right now, right?”
The man revealed a struggling expression, then still slowly said it out in the end: “It’s Sun Moon Divine Hall…”
Yun Che: “!!”
“My family have been thieves for many generations and we happily robbed the rich to help the poor. One of my ancestors had once infiltrated Sun Moon Divine Hall and stole a Tyrant Profound blade. As such, for the past several hundred years, Sun Moon Divine Hall had always been searching for our tracks. Afterwards, I don’t know what kind of searching method they used, but they found one of our bases, and thus calamity descended…”
“I understand. Get up.” Yun Che pulled him up… A special clan of people that were thieves for many generations, an ancestor, and even a Sacred Ground like Sun Moon Divine Hall had come in the picture with a Tyrant Profound blade. This kind of family inevitably possessed a great fame within the Profound Sky Continent.
“Bring me to see your wife.” Yun Che said seriously: “I believe that you wouldn’t let her stay anywhere too far, she ought to be within Divine Phoenix City, right?”
“Ah?” The man was stunned.
“I know a bit of medicine, I can perhaps cure your wife’s injuries and poison. Also, don’t worry, I won’t leak out any information concerning you and your wife. I won’t even bother to check to see what you truly look like.” Yun Che said indifferently.
The man gaped: “But… but… this…”
“No buts.” Yun Che interrupted: “Since you care about her that much, then you can only trust me. Even if the number one genius doctor told you that there is no cure, you still have to trust a person who claims that he might possibly cure her! Because if you miss this opportunity… you might miss the opportunity to save her life!”
“Okay!!”
Yun Che’s last words suddenly smashed all the hesitation the man possessed. He no longer thought of anything else as he nodded fiercely: “You can even differentiate what kind of medicine I had been in contact with in an instant, so I believe that your medical skills have reached perfection! I believe even more that you would not harm us, and you don’t even have a reason to harm us… If you can truly cure her, my life is yours!”
Chapter 410 - The Legendary Princess Snow
Night gradually fell, Yun Che followed the man toward a place at the edge of Divine Phoenix City’s southern region.
“Why… Why are you helping me?” The man asked cautiously after being silent for a long period of time. Like Yun Che, he was a person who had been in innumerable life and death situations before, his perceptiveness and wariness were no less inferior to Yun Che. Thus, he could tell with a single glance if someone possessed evil intentions or was conspiring against him. However, he couldn’t find any trace of malice or conspiracy on Yun Che.
“Just treat it as my doctor’s heart suddenly reawakening after a long period of silence.” Yun Che said as he secretly sighed in his heart… Having a doctor’s heart that loved everything under the heavens and helped the people, that had made up his entire soul back then, and was the core part of what his Master had taught him. But once his Master had been forced to death, his doctor’s heart had been replaced by endless hatred. After that, he had never used his medical expertise to save anyone.
“Err…” This answer confused the man.
“You said that you had obtained half a stalk of Phoenix Helianthus?” Yun Che casually asked.
“Yes.” The man nodded: “Every year, the quantity of Phoenix Helianthus that sprouts is already very few, and most are usually immediately seized by Divine Phoenix Sect, so I could only infiltrate one of Divine Phoenix Sect’s treasure halls. But many protective profound formations are littered everywhere there, just as soon as I went in, I accidentally touched one of them and had no choice but to escape… Luckily, before I escaped, I already had that half stalk of Phoenix Helianthus in hand. I believe the reason why I could so easily steal it, was because since that half stalk of Phoenix Helianthus had already lost too much of its medicinal force, it had been casually tossed on top of a jade cabinet.
Yun Che’s steps slowed as he said with shock: “You… infiltrated Divine Phoenix Sect?”
“Yeah.” Hearing the shock in Yun Che’s voice, the man slapped his chest while proudly nodding: “In this world, aside from the Four Great Sacred Grounds and Black Moon Merchant Guild, there has never been a place I have not snuck into. Even though they discovered me… Heh heh, they couldn’t even manage to touch my butt before I disappeared from their sights without leaving even a trace.”
Yun Che: “…”
This man said that one of his ancestors had infiltrated Sun Moon Divine Hall, which had also shocked him, and the man himself beside him… He was about to steal into Divine Phoenix Sect, yet had escaped without a single injury after being discovered…
Who… the heck…
The man’s voice lowered, as he said with a distressed face: “When I stole into Divine Phoenix Sect, I originally wanted to secretly check out the legendary Princess Snow, but she just had to happen to not be there. I heard a few people discussing… and it seems like she had went to some Perching Phoenix Valley.”
“Princess Snow?” Yun Che raised his brows: “One of Divine Phoenix Sect’s princesses, right?”
After Yun Che finished speaking, he saw the man’s eyes widen. That expression… was as if he was examining an alien.
“Could it be… that you don’t know Princess Snow?” The man said with wide eyes.
“Is this Princess Snow… really famous?” Yun Che asked back.
Yun Che’s unchanging expression did not have the least bit of falsehood. The man swept him up and down with his gaze, then used an extremely expression to once again size Yun Che up again. That gaze… was totally not a gaze that was looking at a living person: “Holy cow! You’re serious? You seriously don’t know Princess Snow? As expected, y-y-y-y-you’re not someone from Divine Phoenix Empire! Ah, no wait! Even if you’re not from Divine Phoenix Empire, even if you’re from a remote mountain region in another nation, it’s impossible for you to not know Princess Snow!”
Yun Che: “…”
This was indeed the first time he had ever heard of the name Princess Snow.
“Then… have you ever heard of the name ‘Hua Minghai’?” The man’s eyes flashed.
“Hua Minghao? Never heard of it before, is it another famous person?” Yun Che asked.
“Holy cow!!” The man hopped up and roared with bared teeth: “I-i-i-it’s whatever if you don’t know Princess Snow, but you actually have never heard of the great Hua Minghai! He’s the legendary ‘Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’, the most awesome person in all of Profound Sky Continent… Cough cough, one of them. Let alone humans, even a fish in mud would know of this great name, how could there exist a person who has never heard of that name!!”
“Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand? What a terrible nickname.” Yun Che curled his lips.
“~！#￥%……” The muscles on the man’s face twitched, and looked as if he wanted to fight to the death with Yun Che: “You couldn’t have come here from another world, could you?”
Yun Che turned around, and nodded seriously: “You can believe that.”
“F*ck!”
“You can’t be… that ‘Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’ Hua Minghai, could you?” Yun Che gave him a new measuring look.
“Right, that’s me!” Hua Minghai patted his chest, then the corner of his eyes twitched uncontrollably. Holy f*ck… this was the first time he had revealed his own name to someone… yet this person had actually never heard of him before!
“Oh, I understand.” Yun Che asked flatly: “Then should I call you Little Hua or Little Hai?”
“…Just call me Little Hai.” Hua Minghai was about to cry. No matter how you put it, I’m almost thirty years ago, and this kid’s obviously not even twenty years of age.
“Talk to me about Princess Snow, why is so so famous?” Yun Che asked with some curiosity.
“Cough cough, you don’t want to know about Ghost Mirage Sacred Hand’s past achievements first?”
“Nope.”
“！#￥%……” Hua Minghai sucked in a death breath. Only after using all of his willpower to finally calm down did he answer: “Princess Snow is Divine Phoenix Empire’s treasure, the Divine Phoenix Spirit’s darling, and the miracle the heavens have bestowed upon Divine Phoenix. These were all her previous nicknames, and no one had seen her before. In the year Princess Snow turned thirteen, she had appeared on top of Divine Phoenix City’s tower because of some ceremony. That year, the Divine Phoenix City that had never seen even a bit of snow had unexpectedly seen snow descend from the sky; Princess Snow appeared, and the entire place had become a field of silence. Everyone who had gaze upon her had become dazed on the spot, as if they had seen a fairy descend to the mortal realm… On the very next day, she had been dubbed as Profound Sky’s number one beauty. It was unprecedented, and even those who were qualified to be mentioned in the same breath as her did not exist.”
“Thirteen years old? Profound Sky’s number one beauty?”
“Yes, back then, Princess Snow was only thirteen years old. She ought to be sixteen this year, so her beauty definitely should have increased. Unfortunately, aside from her surfacing three years ago, she had never come out in front of others. Nobody knows how Princess Snow looks like now.” Hua Minghai said with a face full of yearning.
“You’ve seen her three years ago?” Yun Che asked.
“No, I’ve only heard it from people…”
Yun Che smirked: “Then how do you know she’s beautiful to such an extent? For women, if you’re talking about thirteen years old, let alone mature, she hasn’t even blossomed yet. No matter how good-looking she is, how beautiful could she possibly be?” When he spoke till here, Yun Ch paused, because he thought about Jasmine… The first time he had met Jasmine, she was only thirteen as well, and the blow she gave Yun Che had even surpassed Xia Qingyue…
But Jasmine was a completely different kind of category that couldn’t be examined based on this world’s standards. How could that so called “Princess Snow” possibly be mentioned in the same breath as her?
As far as snow descending from the sky, that’s even more nonsensical. Divine Phoenix City is summer all year round, where would snow come from? I’d reckon that the title of number one beauty and snowfall stuff were all fabricated from Divine Phoenix Sect to strengthen its prestige.”
“But, everyone all says that…”
“I only believe things that I see with my own eyes, not what I hear.” Yun Che said slowly: “If you were to say the number one beauty in the world, I think that only my wife deserves this title… Who doesn’t know how to self-proclaim stuff like that?”
“Hmph…” Hua Minghai snorted softly, then said: “I heard that in this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, Princess Snow will appear. At that time, I’m definitely going to mix in with the crowd to check out how Princess Snow looks like, are you interested?”
“Not interested.”
“……”
In the very edge of one of Divine Phoenix City’s corners. Hua Minghai’s footsteps stopped in front of an abandoned looking little house. He stopped breathing, quickly surveyed the surroundings, and whispered: “It’s right here… follow me in.”
The door opened and a strong scent of medicine assaulted over. This place was obviously a temporary residence; its furnishing was very simple. Purple crystals were on top of the little bed on the side, flickering with purple light. These purple crystal lights were deep and illusory, and peacefully lying on top of the purple crystals was a thin woman. Once she heard the door open, the woman stirred, and let out a weak yet eager sound: “Husband… you’re… back…”
This voice made Hua Minghai tremble all over. He hastily rushed over, threw himself in front of the bed, and said emotionally: “Xiaoya, you’re awake… I’m so sorry that I wasn’t here by your side when you woke up, I must have scared you… How do you feel? Does it hurt a lot?”
Yun Che walked in with light steps and stood behind Hua Minghai as he looked at the woman’s face… She had been reduced to an extremely thin and weak state, her face was pale without color, her eyes were half opened, and exuded a misty gaze… This kind of gaze was one that could not see anything.
The most conspicuous thing on her face was on her forehead… there was an obvious deep dark blue seal there.
Seeing this dark blue color, Yun Che’s brows slightly wrinkled.
“No problem… I’ve only just woken up… I feel… a lot better…” The woman tried her best to smile. At this time, her eyes finally caught a vague human silhouette. She said softly: “Husband… do we have… a guest?”
Without waiting for Hua Minghai to speak, Yun Che had already answered: “Hello… My name is Ling Yun, I’m Hua Minghai’s friend.”
“Friend…”
Yun Che’s following words had actually made the woman’s eyes light up with a peculiar gleam. She said excitedly: “You’re really Husband’s friend? Husband… is he really… your friend?”
Yun Che was slightly stunned, but Hua Minghai knew why she was so moved. He nodded forcefully: “Mn! Xiaoya, he’s a friend I made outside… If he’s not a friend, how could he possible know that my name is Hua Minghai.”
“Friend… Husband’s friend…” She laughed, her smiling expression was pale yet blissful. She gently repeated: “Husband has a friend… Husband really has a friend…”
“…” Yun Che secretly heaved out a breath, and took a step forward: “Not only am I Little Hai’s friend, I’m also a doctor. The reason why I have come with Little Hai here is also to see if I can cure your illness… Little Hai, step aside first, let me see her condition.”
After hearing that, Hua Minghai quickly stepped aside, as both his eyes stared straight at Yun Che: “Big bro! Please, you have to use all your power to save Xiaoya. If you really can save her…”
In front of Xiaoya, Hua Minghai was unable to say the words that came next. Even though he knew that he was older than Yun Che by at least ten years, the word “big bro” came from his soul. If Yun Che truly could save her, let alone “big bro”, even if he had to call him “grandpa” his entire life, he would be perfectly willing. And he was already grateful that Yun Che was even willing to come here with him.
“Of course I’ll do all I can.” Yun Che said calmly. Then, he walked over to the front of the bed as his gaze fell upon her forehead… Manifested on the space between her brows was the terrifying dark blue cold poison that had infected her body. It was almost about to enter her brain.
All the purple colored crystals beneath her were priceless, because each one of them were the purest Purple Veined Heaven Crystals! Her body was extremely worn out, and the main reason why she had lived past so many years under the terrifying cold poison was because half her body was bundled with those Purple Veined Heaven Crystals.
“My name is… Ru Xiaoya, can I… also call you big bro?” As Yun Che gazed at her, she suddenly asked in a weak voice.
“…Mn.” Yun Che nodded in response.
“Thank you… Big bro…”
“Why are you thanking me?” Yun Che asked.
“Thank you… for becoming Little Hai’s friend.” Ru Xiaoya said with grateful sincerity: “These years… to extend my life… Husband did not hesitate to abandon the family doctrine of robbing the rich to help the poor… and went everywhere to steal many elixirs and Purple Veined Heaven Crystals… because of me… he doesn’t have any friends… and also could not… have any friends…”
“I don’t want to burden him anymore… but, I’m also scared of dying… because if I die… Husband will truly be alone… He finally… has… a… big brother… good…”
Ru Xiaoya’s voice grew increasingly softer, until she finally lost consciousness. She was too weak, and saying so many words had consumed an enormous amount of energy.
Chapter 411 - Great Kindness
“She fainted.” Yun Che stated.
Hua Minghai trembled all over and clenched his teeth, using all his might to suppress the tears that were about to burst forth. He turned around with both hands clutching his head and said painfully: “I know how painful it was for her these past few years. To her, dying is actually a kind of freedom… but… but how could I possibly watch her leave me without doing anything…”
“This is a cruel decision you have no choice in. No matter which one you pick, they would both be right and wrong… Without personally experiencing this kind of feeling, it would never be understood.” Yun Che sighed, then changed his tone: “However, because you met me, your choice and perseverance is right.”
“Ah!?” Hua Minghai suddenly lifted his head to look at him.
Yun Che turned around and looked him straight in the eye: “I’ve only very rarely seen your wife’s symptoms before, and I more or less understand them. Go stand guard outside, don’t let anyone in. Aside from me giving you permission, you cannot come in. You ought to know that the more dangerous of a state a patient is in, the more reason there is for the treatment to not be disturbed.”
Seeing Yun Che’s undisguised expression, Hua Minghai said excitedly: “Could… could it be, that you have a way… to save Xiaoya… You really have a method to save Xiaoya?!”
“I can’t say with complete certainty.” Yun Che glared at him: “If you can disappear from my sight right now, the chance of success can roughly go up to ninety nine percent.”
Swish! Bang!
A fierce wind was raised before Yun Che’s eyes, and Hua Minghai had already vanished from his sight as the sound of the door being hastily closed echoed.
This kind of speed was absolutely world shocking, would make ghosts weep, and stunned Yun Che for a long while before he recovered his senses.
This fellow, what kind of movement skill did he cultivate!?
His profound strength was more or less at the late stage Sky Profound, yet his movement skills were terrifying to such an extent!
The reason why Yun Che made Hua Minghai go out was obviously not because he was afraid to be disturbed, rather, he was afraid of him seeing the way he was going to treat Xiaoya. After all, if he were to expel the poison in the shortest time possible, he had to use the Sky Poison Pearl. If he didn’t use the Sky Poison Pearl, Yun Che had to use ten million times the effort to dispel the cold poison… because the cold poison had already existed for as long as five years, and had long fused with the blood and meridians in her entire body. Not only would it be extremely troublesome to completely dispel it, it would also be accompanied by an extremely high risk.
Aside from the poison, she also had very heavy internal injuries… due to the cold poison’s existence, not only did these internal injuries not heal, they had instead worsened day by day. To Yun Che, her internal failures were more problematic than the cold poison.
Yun Che extended out his left hand in front of Ru Xiaoya’s bed, placing it on her chest. Sky Poison Pearl’s green radiance slowly shined, then gradually spread through her entire body. Under the Sky Poison Pearl’s power, the cold poison that had been wreaking havoc in her body for a full five years was quickly being eliminated without any resistance.
Like ants on a hot pan, Hua Minghai paced back and forth outside, but did not dare to make any stepping sounds.
A burst of a slightly cold night wind blew over, somewhat instantly clearing Hua Minghai’s mind. He was usually an extremely careful person, otherwise, he would not have kept Ru Xiaoya up till now. Yet today, he had actually brought a person he had only met for the very first time into their present hiding place, and even let him approach Ru Xiaoya alone. Now that he thought about it, he felt that it was inconceivable… perhaps it was the mysterious aura on Yun Che’s body that allowed the bottom of his heart to give birth to an indescribable hope.
An entire hour passed by, and not a peep of noise came out from inside the house. This made Hua Minghai feel extremely uncertain, he wanted to pull open the door many times, but every time he felt that, he would do his utmost to hold himself back. At this time, Yun Che’s not light, yet not heavy voice came from inside: “Come in.”
Like lightning, Hua Minghai pulled open the door and dashed in. He saw that the medicinal ingredients in the room had not changed. Ru Xiaoya still laid in place, she had not even been moved. He quickly stepped forward and said with emotion: “How is Xiaoya…?”
As soon as he said that, his pupils suddenly enlarged… because he shockingly saw that the dark blue color on Ru Xiaoya’s forehead had already disappeared.
Hua Minghai’s entire body trembled with excitement. He held out a hand, pressed it on Ru Xiaoya’s chest, and carefully probed with his profound energy… He no longer felt the slightest trace of the cold poison anywhere… not even a remnant was found.
“The cold poison in her body has already been completely dispelled.” Yun Che said. How could it possibly take an hour for the Sky Poison Pearl to remove the cold poison in Ru Xiaoya’s body? However, if it were too quick, it was unavoidable that it would be too shocking, so Yun Che sat for a while, dragging the time to last an hour.
Hua Minghai was so moved that he couldn’t control himself. The two were tormented by this cold poison for an entire five years, it was their most terrifying nightmare, and they knew more than anyone how dreadful this cold poison was, even so much that they had given up long ago about having the extravagant hope of curing this poison. When Hua Minghai brought Yun Che along, he also did not have the excessive hope that a miracle would occur, it was just that he was unwilling to abandon this last strand of hope… He never expected that a miracle would truly and honestly appear before his eyes.
“Xiaoya… Xiaoya…” Hua Minghai clasped Ru Xiaoya’s hand and was so emotional that he spoke incoherently: “Did you hear that… your poison’s gone… completely gone… Xiaoya… did you hear that…”
“Alright, don’t bother her, let’s go outside.” Yun Che said: “Even though the cold poison has been removed, due to the cold poison’s five years of erosion, her profound strength has completely collapsed, her internal organs are severely exhausted. If not for the large amount of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals’ nourishment all these years, she would’ve inevitably died once the cold poison was removed. At present, she has not completely left the dangerous condition. In order to fully recuperate, she needs a really long time to do so. What she needs right now is proper rest.”
Hua Minghai immediately restrained himself from talking as he properly tended to Ru Xiaoya’s bedding and blankets. Then, he followed Yun Che out with light steps.
Yun Che took out a small bottle and gave it to Hua Minghai. Inside the bottle was a small amount of scarlet color liquid: “This is the blood of a fire attribute Emperor Profound True Dragon, it can disperse the cold energy that had filled her body during those years and also restore her vitality. There are a total of ten drops of dragon blood. You must drip one drop into three liters of water, then feed her three drops of that everyday starting tomorrow. Every time a month passes, you must add in an additional one drop… Remember, you must not add more drops, otherwise, her body would not be able to withstand it.”
Even though it laid inside the jade bottle, with Hua Minghai’s strong awareness, the pure dragon aura was completely perceived. He also knew that for a weak body like Ru Xiaoya’s that was filled with cold energy, a True Dragon’s blood, even a fire attribute Emperor Profound dragon blood, was no different than a heavenly pellet.
Hua Minghai took the dragon blood and was so moved that he couldn’t say a single word out.
“You have looked after her for five years, so you should be very clear on how to gradually cure her internal injuries and restore her vitality. You don’t need me to talk excessively. But I have one thing to remind you about, within a period of three months, you cannot remove her from the Purple Veined Heaven Crystals. Her vitality is at an all time low at the moment so if she were to leave from the Purple Veined Heaven Crystals, any sort of mistake could possibly end her life.” Yun Che said seriously. Saving the dying and healing the injured… was what he always did back then, and he had always been happy about it. But now, he no longer had that kind of mindset anymore, because compared to the number of people he had killed, the amount of people he had saved… was too far removed.
“Thank you… Benefactor!” Hua Minghai choked with emotion, then suddenly kneeled… This kneel, had more force than the previous kneel. The previous kneel was filled with endless unwillingness, but this kneel was filled with willingness: “I, Hua Minghai will remember your great kindness throughout my entire life. May I ask Benefactor for his great name? I, Hua Minghai will definitely use all my power to repay you.”
“No need, I only occasionally do a doctor’s duty.” Yun Che said with a little sigh: “As for my name… I’ve already told you this before, my name is Ling Yun.”
Toward this name, Hua Minghai was unmoved. Instead, he asked: “Could Benefactor’s true name be… Yun Che?”
“…” Yun Che’s brows violently twitched… Shit! What’s this? I’ve only announced my name twice, and I said that it was “Ling Yun” both times, yet the other party all call out my real name… Could it be that my name has already been spread to such an extent that everyone within Divine Phoenix Empire knows me?
Seeing that Yun Che had not said anything for a long time, Hua Minghai knew that his guess was right. He quickly continued: “When I infiltrated Divine Phoenix Sect, I just happened to hear the name ‘Yun Che’, and they mentioned that ‘Yun Che’ was from Blue Wind Nation. He wasn’t a part of Divine Phoenix Sect, yet he possessed the phoenix bloodline. Benefactor is from Blue Wind Nation and can use phoenix flames… so I always thought that Benefactor was this ‘Yun Che’.
So that’s why… Yun Che was finally relieved. It was evident that the name “Yun Che” wasn’t much, but people would pay attention to “someone outside of Divine Phoenix Sect who possesses the phoenix bloodline”.
“Yes, I am the Yun Che you speak of. I came to Divine Phoenix City this time to settle this matter with Divine Phoenix Sect. That is also why I wasn’t willing to give you the Phoenix Helianthus.” Yun Che glanced at the night sky, then helped Hua Minghai up: “Okay, go back to look after your wife. You don’t have to think about thanking me. After she recovers her strength, you should take her away from Divine Phoenix City and go to a safer place.”
Hua Minghai said unhesitatingly: “Even though I am a thief, I will never forget how to repay a debt of gratitude. I’ve said it before, as long as you are able to save my wife, my life is yours. From now on, if Benefactor needs me for anything, don’t hesitate to open your mouth. Even if it is extremely dangerous, I won’t even wrinkle my brows! Especially if Benefactor wants something… Even if it’s in the sacred grounds, I will still be willing to charge in for Benefactor.”
Hua Minghai’s last words stirred Yun Che’s heart. He opened his lips, but before he could speak, he swallowed them back… In Divine Phoenix City, the thing he wanted the most was undoubtedly Divine Phoenix Sect’s 《World Ode of the Phoenix》. If he could obtain the fundamental formula and the first four stages of the 《World Ode of the Phoenix》, he would completely master and comprehend his phoenix profound strength.
But 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 was Divine Phoenix Sect’s core art. It was also 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 that allowed Divine Phoenix Sect to become the number one sect in the Profound Sky. The protection Divine Phoenix Sect would have for 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 would certainly be extremely tight. If Hua Minghai goes in to steal it, it was extremely possible for him to lose his life… That was after all, Divine Phoenix Sect’s 《World Ode of the Phoenix》, normal things absolutely cannot compare to it.
He had just removed the cold poison from Ru Xiaoya. If Hua Minghai actually plants himself within Divine Phoenix Sect because of him, that would be the same as harming the two.
Seeing the distinct flash of hesitation in Yun Che’s face, as well as him withdrawing his words, Hua Minghai quickly said: “Benefactor, is there something you want? Don’t hesitate to ask, I’ll definitely help you get it… If I don’t repay this kindness, I won’t ever be at ease.”
Yun Che pondered for a while, then said: “Can you tell me what movement skill you use?”
Hua Minghai was somewhat stunned, then said after a slight hesitation: “It is my Hua Family’s hereditary movement skill —— ‘Extreme Mirage Lightning’.”
Chapter 412 - Hunted
“Extreme Mirage Lightning… This movement skill, can it be transferred to another person?” Yun Che asked earnestly.
“Ah…” Hua Minghai stilled his expression, then shook his head in fear and agony: “Sorry, Benefactor. I’ll never hesitate in whatever you want me to do, but only this… Extreme Mirage Lightning is my clan’s treasure bestowed upon us by heaven, and also our biggest taboo that can never be passed on to others. I…”
“I understand.” Yun Che nodded: “A clan’s profound techniques are originally not supposed to be spread out, I was being rude. Take proper care of your wife.”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che turned, leaving with slow steps.
“Benefactor… I…” Hua Minghai looked at Yun Che’s departing back, gritting his teeth with a face full of shame… What Yun Che had given him was no doubt a favor as big as the sky. He could easily accomplish the only thing he wanted, yet he just couldn’t do it… He was a man who hated owing a debt of gratitude to another, let alone such a great kindness. This kind of feeling made his heart feel unbearable pain.
“Don’t take it to heart.” Yun Che executed a backward wave: “You should be using all your energy on your wife at the moment, don’t be distracted by something that doesn’t matter. Saving a life can also be considered to be for the purpose of redeeming a bit of my sins. If you really want to repay me, then work hard to help your wife recover faster, which would not make me saving her be in vain.”
As his voice fell, Yun Che’s figure had already disappeared into the dark of night. Hua Minghai looked up ahead, not uttering a single word for a long while, with a complicated, indescribable expression on his face, as though he was struggling intensely about something.
“I never thought that you, someone who treats human life like grass, who would annihilate an entire clan without blinking, would actually waste energy to save someone who has nothing to do with you.” Jasmine said with an extremely indifferent tone of voice.
“This proves that I am still inherently a good person, right?”
“…” Jasmine snorted.
By the time Yun Che returned to the inn, it was already the middle of the night. When he went back in his room, just as he was intending to push the door open while standing right at the doorway, his hands suddenly stiffened as both his brows sunk. All the nerves on his entire body had also instantly stretched taut.
Because he clearly felt that there was someone in his room!
The person hidden in his room was superb at concealment, if it was only by his profound strength and not spiritual sense, it would be impossible for him to discover his existence… Once he perceived this person’s existence, a kind of hair raising, chilling sensation came right after. This kind of sensation told him that not only was the person inside terrifyingly strong, this person was here to kill him.
“Quickly, leave! It’s someone at the eighth level of the Emperor Profound Realm! He has already detected you!”
Under Jasmine’s quick warning, Yun Che no longer had time to think as he Star God’s Broken Shadow’d out of the inn and quickly dashed out.
Crash!
The door and walls being completely smashed sounded behind him as a scorching wave of wind also screamed from behind… This kind of burning sensation was clearly… phoenix flame!
Someone from Divine Phoenix Sect!
Yun Che’s heart grew heavy… why was it someone from Divine Phoenix Sect? And this killing intent clearly wanted to put him to death. Could it be… Feng Xichen!?
Yun Che’s heart turned… Looks like it was due to the events back then, when he had revealed his phoenix flames in broad daylight in Falling Flame Merchant Guild and was mistaken as a Divine Phoenix Sect disciple, which allowed Divine Phoenix Sect to obtain news of him. They followed the clues to then find where he resided.
Seems like he had been too careless then. He was too preoccupied with noticing Hua Minghai that he had subconsciously forgotten this key fact… In Divine Phoenix City, Divine Phoenix Sect spies were everywhere!
Yun Che’s speed obviously could not match a strong practitioner at the later stages of the Emperor Profound. In less than ten breaths, he had already chased to the point where there was only sixty meters between them. A violent wave of phoenix flame broke through the air at him.
RIIIP!!
The phoenix flame that had been violently ignited in the air was especially luminous in the night sky. Yun Che quickly dodged, avoiding the phoenix flame. Then, his heart steeled as he stopped to turn around… The person chasing him also stopped without overtaking him, because before his eyes, was his pitiful prey that simply could not escape his grasp.
“Who are you?” Yun Che asked with sunken brows.
The other party’s gaze swept across his body, then laughed coldly: “You do indeed have the aura of phoenix profound strength. You are indeed the rumored bastard… Yun Che. I never thought that you would actually arrive so early.”
“Heh,” Yun Che coldly laughed in turn: “Look like your Divine Phoenix Sect is scared of me.”
“Scared of you?”
“Right!” Yun Che ridiculed: “I came to Divine Phoenix City with the intent to settle the bloodline dispute with your Divine Phoenix Sect openly and honorably at the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, but you Divine Phoenix Sect are actually using such an unpresentable method like assassination. Seems like the so called Divine Phoenix Sect is only this much.”
“Haha,” The middle aged man laughed disdainfully: “In our Divine Phoenix Sect’s eyes, you are merely a little reptile that had stolen our sect’s bloodline. My sect is scared of a pathetic little reptile? Truly a joke as large as the heavens. Today is just because Thirteenth Prince wants your life.”
“As expected…” Yun Che’s gaze became even colder.
“A mere reptile from Blue Wind actually dares to offend Thirteenth Prince. Even if the Blue Wind Emperor kneels to beg for forgiveness on your behalf, you should not even think of living past tonight… However, dying in my, Feng Chihuo’s hands, is enough to brag about when you go to the netherworld and enter the reincarnation cycle! Calmly meet your maker!”
Feng Chihuo’s figure swayed, then he suddenly charged at Yun Che with phoenix flames ignited on all five of his fingers, aiming for Yun Che’s chest. It was evident that he wanted to kill him in one strike… Eighth level of the Emperor Profound Realm, a genuine high level Throne, against one at merely the Earth Profound Realm. If an instant kill was impossible, even he would feel that it was funny.
Yun Che’s gaze flashed as he stepped a Star God’s Broken Shadow, instantly splitting out three false images, dooming Feng Chihuo’s grab to miss. Sucking in a deep breath, he gathered all the profound energy in his body and quickly fled toward the south.
The moment he grabbed empty air, Feng Chihuo was stunned. He was actually unable to clearly see how Yun Che had dodged with his eyesight, and the rate in which Yun Che had fled right after had shocked him even more… He clearly was only at the Earth Profound Realm, but his speed was no less inferior to that of a low level Throne!
“Hmph! As expected, he has some skill.” Feng Chihuo snorted coldly, as a trace of anger surfaced in his heart. Even though Yun Che’s speed was way faster than what he had expected, this kind of speed still could not escape the palm of his hands. Besides, Yun Che only had profound strength at the Earth Profound Realm. It was impossible for him to fly, so he had no other choice but to run on ground, which meant that he could never escape his line of sight, nor his perception.
“Brat, let’s see where you’ll run to!”
Feng Chihuo growled. His entire body flew after Yun Che like an arrow from a bow, the shocking speed brought along the exceptionally ear-piercing sound of air being broken. Under the distinct difference in speed, within several tens of breaths, Yun Che was once again chased to sixty meters of difference. Yun Che, who was on the run, suddenly turned around again and tossed a pitch-black thing at the Feng Chihuo in midair.
The waning moon in the sky was completely hidden from view by the Primordial Profound Ark, making the night as black as ink. Feng Chihuo heard a sharp whistling sound in front of him, yet couldn’t clearly see what it was. He didn’t dare to use his body to obstruct it, for fear that the other party had tossed out a toxic poison. He quickly dodged to the side, and once it had brushed past him, did he clearly see that it was only an ordinary stone… It was probably a random stone Yun Che had casually picked up during his escape.
“Whoosh!”
The sound of something breaking through the air resounded once more, and Feng Chihuo’s gaze grew disdainful. Casually slapping the stone into pieces, he sneered: “Truly a hilarious struggle, are you still dreaming about escaping the palms of your lord’s hands!?”
After a few breaths, Yun Che had already been chased to a distance of forty five meters apart. His expression was still, and he turned around again as a pitch-black object flew out of his hands once more.
Forty five meters of distance was already inside Feng Chihuo’s attack range. He began to condense profound energy in his hand, and directly met that object. Without even looking at what it was, he casually slapped it away…
BOOM!!!!
The sound of profound thunder from the nine heavens resounded within Divine Phoenix City’s quiet midnight. An enormous energy storm violently exploded in midair. From far away, it was as though an extremely magnificent firework had exploded in the sky.
The first two stones were merely a pretense tossed out by Yun Che.
But the third one, was the Heaven Decimating Orb Yun Che had obtained from the body of Xiao Wuyi!
Heaven Decimating Orb’s might was incomparably large, enough to severely injure a low level Throne. With Feng Chihuo’s abilities, if he had used all his strength to defend, it might actually be difficult for the Heaven Decimating Orb to bring about substantial injuries. However, in the cat chasing mouse game-like manner he used to pursue Yun Che, he simply did not defend at all. Inside the blaze brought about by the Heaven Decimating Orb, his entire left arm had been completely fried inside out, dripping with fresh blood. His entire phoenix robe had been burst into pieces, it was so powerful that even his chest, both arms, and face were littered with wounds all over. His hair had even been half bombed, changing into a field of rough disorder.
He looked miserable to the extreme.
As for Yun Che, he had fled long ago, not a trace of him could be found.
Even though there were many wounds, they were all just minor injuries, only the injury on his left arm was a bit severe. Compared to his external injuries, Feng Chihuo’s chest had nearly burst from rage. He looked at his arm with a vicious expression as his entire body shook… He, a grand, high level Throne of Divine Phoenix Sect had actually been reduced to such a miserable shape by a mere junior of the Earth Profound Realm… This was the biggest humiliation of his entire life!
“Yun Che… I’m going to rip you into ten thousand pieces!!” Feng Chihuo’s hair stood erect as his entire body combusted with a violent blaze. With a loud roar and a towering fury, he used his greatest speed to chase forward, his perception, had also been released to its maximum.
After running in his quickest speed possible for a distance, Yun Che had instead slowed down, then used all his power to control the fluctuation of his profound strength. To an escapee, night time was the best time for hiding, but at the same time, in the completely quiet night, even the most minute of movement would echo through the silence.
Feng Xichen had indeed ordered someone to kill him before the ranking tournament, and his mobilization was actually this fast… He had already been discovered, and Divine Phoenix City was also full of Divine Phoenix Sect’s spies. In that case, Divine Phoenix City was no longer a suitable place for him to stay before the ranking tournament. Before dawn, he had to stay hidden from Feng Chihuo’s pursuit and leave Divine Phoenix City at the same time.
As he was currently being hunted, Yun Che’s mind would find itself at its most clearest state. Inside the darkness, in Divine Phoenix City, a place he was not at all familiar with, he was displaying his concealing and evading abilities to their peaks. Going along a strange and unpredictable route, he quickly approached the southern part of Divine Phoenix City.
Time slowly passed by in the night, and the milky white color of twilight began to emerge from the eastern sky. Yun Che could already see Divine Phoenix City’s tall, majestic southern gate in his field of vision… And in this boundless night, Feng Chihuo, who was crazily searching for him overhead could not find any trace of him.
Yun Che took in a deep breath, made himself look completely natural, and then walked toward the city gate. Just as he approached, he was obstructed by two heavily armored city guards:
“Orders from the Imperial Palace! Before seven in the morning today, no one is allowed to exit the city! Violators will be arrested on the spot.”
Chapter 413 - Profound Handle Exposed
The Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was in more than ten days, and the influx of people coming in Divine Phoenix City could be said to be increasing day by day. At this time, how could the city gates suddenly be sealed off?
The greatest possibility was that Feng Chihuo was angry that he couldn’t find him through the entire night. Since he was angry to the point where he would have fainted and revived several times, he contacted Feng Xichen to pass down an order to temporarily seal off the city gates, allowing people to enter but not leave.
Yun Che moved two steps back. A few ideas quickly flashed through his mind, then, he suddenly accelerated, forcefully knocking the two city guards aside as he charged forward.
“Stop him!!”
Yun Che’s action was no different from poking a hornet’s nest. Several tens of city guards nearby immediately rushed over. Yun Che lifted Dragon Fault and swept across without even looking at his surroundings. The might of the berserk heavy sword was like a Doomsday windstorm that ruthlessly scattered the besieging city guards flying. They couldn’t get up for a long while, and even the weapons in their hands had been instantly destroyed.
The fact that the sky was only slightly bright, added to the fact that no one would dare be impetuous in Divine Phoenix City, meant that the city guards were relatively weak. Even though they had received the order to blockade the city, the city gates were still wide open, not shut. After Yun Che swept away the obstacles, without waiting for them to react, he had already rushed out of the city gates with an extremely fast speed. As he stepped outside the city, he summoned the Snow Phoenix, then flew off into the distance.
“Quick… notify Lord Chihuo.” A city guard yelled out with all his strength.
Fifteen minutes later, a current of heat hurtled above the city gates, directly chasing in the direction Yun Che had fled. It was precisely Feng Chihuo. The order Feng Xichen gave him was for him to assassinate Yun Che secretly. Not only was no one to know about it, he wasn’t suppose to leave behind any traces. But it was clear that Feng Chihuo was already muddled by his anger. In order to thoroughly kill Yun Che, he had even brought about such a commotion. After all, being played with by a mere Earth Profound junior to a battered and exhausted state was a humiliation he had never suffered before. If he didn’t kill Yun Che, it would be difficult for him to eliminate the hatred in his heart!
The Snow Phoenix Beast’s speed was naturally faster than Yun Che by several fold. Even if Feng Chihuo went searching in the right direction, it was impossible for him to catch up in a short while. However, Yun Che was completely unfamiliar with the terrain outside Divine Phoenix City. The map Cang Yue had prepared for him only contained the route from Blue Wind Imperial City to Divine Phoenix City, as well as Divine Phoenix City’s basic composition. There were no marks or anything about the topography outside Divine Phoenix City. Whether or not he was able to find a place to completely throw off Feng Chihuo was entirely left up to fate and luck.
And it was inevitable that Feng Chihuo, as a member of Divine Phoenix Sect, was extremely familiar with this region. At the same time, even though the Snow Phoenix’s speed was fast, wherever it went, it would leave behind a sliver of cold air that would very likely turn into a trail that could be followed.
Under Yun Che’s urging, the Snow Phoenix’s speed finally reached its peak. Like a streak of lightning, it rapidly flitted across the sky. In the blink of an eye, it was already several tens of kilometers away from Divine Phoenix City.
On the way forward, Yun Che’s expression was tranquil yet dark. Most of the space around Divine Phoenix City was spacious, it was hard to find somewhere to hide. After an hour, the feeling of being pursued still did not come from behind, but Yun Che did not relax at all. He was certain that Feng Chihuo would not give up in his chase. The reason why he had not been overtaken was because the Snow Phoenix was not slower than Feng Chihuo by much.
Yun Che couldn’t help but think of Hua Minghai… In terms of profound strength level, he could not amount to even one tenth of Feng Chihuo, however, in terms of speed, he was much more faster than Feng Chihuo. If he could cultivate that “Extreme Mirage Lightning”, he could effortlessly throw off Feng Chihuo.
The only profound movement skill he possessed was Star God’s Broken Shadow. Even though Star God’s Broken Shadow was incomparably mysterious, it was limited to combat. Its existence perfectly made up for the heavy sword’s largest flaw, allowing Yun Che to still wield a heavy sword that was several tens of thousands of kilograms in weight like a phantom. But Star God’s Broken Shadow’s activation was only an instantaneous short displacement, it was absolutely not used for normal high speed movements.
An endless range of mountains appeared on Yun Che’s southwest side. Inside the mountain range were innumerable mountain peaks, the highest mountain was at least three thousand meters high. His heart stirred as he changed direction, speeding toward the row of mountains. Soon enough, he charged into the mountain range like a shooting star.
Once he entered the mountain range, an abnormal scorching sensation blasted forward, startling a few birds, scattering them about… These birds were completely red in color, and their bodies released a fiery aura.
As soon as he entered the mountain range, what he should’ve seen was green grass everywhere while feeling a slightly cold mountain wind, but once Yun Che went deeper in, he’d actually sensed that the air had distinctively gotten hotter. Every sort of vegetation also grew everywhere, but most of the plants here were red in color. Furthermore, they all released the smell of ignited flame. Ninety percent of the profound beasts he encountered on the way, were also all fire attribute profound beasts.
Don’t tell me it’s because this place is close to Divine Phoenix City, and has something to do with the strong fire element within Divine Phoenix City?
After flying around for two hours, there still was no trace of Feng Chihuo coming from behind, as though he had completely thrown him off. Yun Che slowed down and the Snow Phoenix dropped from the sky, continuously descending until they were not even three hundred meters high, to hide in the many layers of mountains. Jasmine’s low voice suddenly resounded within Yun Che’s mind: “This place is somewhat different than usual.”
“Different from usual? Where are you talking about?” Yun Che immediately asked.
“I thought that this place’s heat came from the volcano nearby, or is from a high concentrated fire element zone. But when I probed earlier, I discovered that this place has exceptionally active fire elemental particles that actually come from an enormous, hidden profound formation that’s extremely deep underground… The entire mountain range is enveloped in this profound formation. If I’m not mistaken, this enormous profound formation ought to have been set up by Divine Phoenix Sect around eight thousand years ago. At the same time, it also means that this mountain range is Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory…”
“It seems like… you came to a place that you really shouldn’t have entered!”
“Brat, let’s see where you’ll run off to this time!”
Just as Jasmine’s voice fell, a loud angry roar resounded near Yun Che’s ears. This voice came from… up ahead.
Yun Che raised his head. Feng Chihuo stood on a low mountain top in front of him with both hands behind his back.. Even though there was a great difference between them, he could still sense the surging fury released from his body. At first, Feng Chihuo thought that sending him, a Throne at the eighth rank, to personally assassinate him was like killing chicken with a butcher knife for cows. It was simply an insult to his status and ability. If not for the fact that Feng Xichen had personally ordered him, he absolutely wouldn’t be willing to do so. However, once he found his target, such an extremely simple mission that insulted his rank had not gone smoothly at all. Instead, he had been dirtied by the other party’s Heaven Decimating Orb… Within these several hours, Feng Chihuo’s fury had not ceased. If not for the fact that his body was resilient, his chest would’ve burst open several tens of times due to his rage.
Yun Che was secretly shocked, if he had been overtaken by Feng Chihuo from behind, he would not be this shocked, because not only was Feng Chihuo’s speed faster than the Snow Phoenix’s, his familiarity with this Divine Phoenix region had far surpassed his. However, what shocked him was that Feng Chihuo appeared in front of him at such a close distance, but he had never detected him.
Jasmine knew what Yun Che was thinking, and said in a low voice: “Looks like there’s big trouble up ahead. This profound formation that’s at least eight thousand years old is not that simple.”
Yun Che’s brows sunk. Then, he clutched at the Snow Phoenix’s snowy feathers on its back and yelled: “Little Chan… Go!!”
The Snow Phoenix Beast rapidly turned around, changing into a streak of an extremely fast white silhouette as it wildly flew in the opposite direction. From behind, came Feng Chihuo’s loud roar: “You still want to flee! No matter where you go, even if you have a hundred lives, don’t even think about escaping!”
The Snow Phoenix’s speed reached its pinnacle as it quickly dove down, and the mountain range on the side quickly drew back, forming two long and narrow ravines.
Yun Che glanced backwards with clenched fists, urging the Snow Phoenix to suppress its aviation, to not fly higher than thirty meters. As they approached the ravine, he channeled Frozen End Divine Arts, instantly activating “Frozen End Illusory Mirror”. At the same time, it enveloped him and the Snow Phoenix within, isolating their auras to a great extent. Then, he extended an arm, and allowed the Profound Handle to fly off into the other ravine.
This was a trick he used to disorientate those who chased after him… it was well-tried and had never been defeated before.
Behind him, Feng Chihuo pursued with a speed that wasn’t too fast, and in front of him was a bizarre, slowly revolving, fire-red profound formation. A white dot slowly moved inside the profound formation. As he looked at this white dot, Feng Chihuo exposed a ridiculing sneer… Right at this moment, his brows suddenly moved, because he suddenly felt that the direction in which the white dot in the profound formation was moving, was not the direction that Yun Che’s aura went. A huge discrepancy had actually appeared…
“What happened? How could a discrepancy appear on the Great Phoenix Formation?”
Feng Chihuo stared blankly for a while. As he raised both his hands, the hovering red colored profound formation in front of him slowly enlarged. Along with the phoenix profound strength Feng Chihuo poured into the profound formation, it spun quickly. Then, two distinct scenes slowly appeared…
In one image was Yun Che flying really fast on a Snow Phoenix…
In the other, was shockingly… an extremely fast, flying orange yellow stream of light.
Yun Che’s aura Feng Chihuo sensed… had actually came from the stream of light. Its aura and Yun Che’s aura, were exactly the same!
Seeing the orange colored stream of light, Feng Chihuo was first stunned, then, his pupils slowly contracted as his face revealed an expression of deep shock and incredibility. After a while, two words containing deep astonishment came out of his mouth…
“Profound… Handle!!”
The Snow Phoenix quickly passed through the ravine. As he looked onward, the highest mountain peak was already before his eyes, it was no less than four thousand five hundred meters tall. Feng Chihuo did not chase over, but Yun Che still did not sigh in relief. Instead, he felt that something was fishy.
He felt as if a pair of eyes had continuously been staring at him all along… how could that be possible?
Was I wrong?
“Run, keep running, let me see how far you can run to.”
Feng Chihuo’s voice suddenly resounded, and it still came from up ahead. Yun Che’s complexion slightly changed as he raised his head… Not even ninety meters up ahead was a leisurely floating Feng Chihuo with an amused expression. However, Yun Che unexpectedly did not feel any killing intent from him, and even his anger had dissipated by a lot.
This time, Yun Che was completely certain that the feeling of being watched was not his misconception. The Feng Chihuo before him was obviously using some sort of method to lock onto his movements, and what helped him, was most likely the “profound formation” which covered the entire mountain range that Jasmine mentioned.
This time, Yun Che didn’t flee at once. He coldly stared at Feng Chihuo: “Are you using this place’s profound formation to track me?”
“Oh? You are actually able to sense the Great Phoenix Formation here? Oh… I almost forgot, you are also someone with the phoenix bloodline. Otherwise, you would not have been able to enter.” Feng Chihuo walked closer and laughed coldly: “Your concealment abilities were truly unexpected, to actually make me search for you without finding a single trace of your shadow until dawn. If you fled to some other place, you might have been able to escape me, but you just happened to rush here… I’ve lived for a hundred years, and have never seen such a perfect example of the saying ‘walking straight into a trap.’”
“Great Phoenix Formation? What exactly is this place?”
“This is Phoenix Mountain Range, a place Divine Phoenix Sect uses to evaluate disciples of the young generation.” Up till here, Feng Chihuo was no longer worried about Yun Che escaping the palms of his hand. He continued calmly: “And only those with the phoenix bloodline may enter. Other humans that approach would be repelled by the Great Phoenix Formation. Since it’s an appraisal ground, we obviously have to monitor each and every disciple’s movements. And I, just happen to be one of the supervisors of this Phoenix Mountain Range. With the help of the Great Phoenix Formation, I can control everything here, even so much that I can travel through the space here using the Great Phoenix Formation.”
Yun Che: “!!”
“I had already known where you were the exact instant you entered the Phoenix Mountain Range. It’s just that you were more crafty than I thought you were, so I didn’t immediately take action to avoid you fleeing the Phoenix Mountain Range. Instead, I allowed you to go deeper in… all the way to here.” Feng Chihuo gazed straight at Yun Che, then extended a palm: “You are now like a turtle in a jar, even if you dream about it, you should not think about escaping. But don’t you worry, I suddenly don’t feel like killing you anymore, because something that would greatly interest Sect Master, and even the Four Great Sacred Grounds has appeared on your body… I didn’t expect that not only are you a bastard of our phoenix bloodline, you’re also a demon from Illusory Demon Realm! I’ve clearly seen the profound handle you used earlier!”
“!!!” Yun Che’s expression immediately sunk as an extremely strong killing intent flashed through his eyes.
Yun Che’s overall strength had no doubt increased exponentially after awakening his profound handle, but he’d actually never used his profound handle in real combat before. Even when he had nearly been forced into a dire strait by Ling Tianni, he still did not think about using his profound handle. This was because while ordinary people might not recognize the profound handle, Heavenly Sword Villa, which was linked with Mighty Heavenly Sword Region in countless ways, might recognize it.
And the profound handle was a godly technique possessed only by Illusory Demon Realm’s Yun Family. As head of the Illusory Demon Royal Family’s Twelve Guardian Families, the Yun Family was no doubt one of the Four Great Sacred Grounds’ greatest enemies. And Illusory Demon Realm had long been made into demons by the Four Great Sacred Grounds. Once the profound handle was exposed, not only would the Four Great Sacred Grounds come at him, everyone within the Seven Nations would regard him as a “demon”.
If that happens, there would not be a single place in the entire Profound Sky Continent that he could seek shelter.
The consequences were ten million times more grave than exposing his phoenix flame.
Both of Yun Che’s hands tightened as his eyes became bone-piercingly cold. Previously, he’d used all his might to escape, but now, he absolutely could not run anymore! This person, who recognized his profound handle… he had to die!
No matter what, no matter how large of a cost he had to pay, he had to kill him!
Chapter 414 - Trading a Life for a Life
“Run, why aren’t you running? Have you resigned to your fate, or have you already been scared witless?” Feng Chihuo laughed wildly: “Forget it, I ought to end our game of cat chasing mouse by now. Even though I spent so much time on you, with such an unexpected harvest, I can’t say that I’ve suffered any losses. I’ve even heard that you’re the Blue Wind Emperor’s son-in-law… Tsk, tsk. If that damned emperor of Blue Wind Nation and the other inferior nations were to know that a mighty prince consort was a demon from Illusory Demon Realm, I’m not sure how marvelous of a reaction they would have… Haha…”
After laughing to his content, Feng Chihuo’s face suddenly became darkened: “Even though I’m not going to kill you, once I give you to Sect Master… I’ll make you live a life worse than death! The debts you incurred after playing tricks on me… I’ll properly calculate them now!”
Feng Chihuo suddenly swooped down from the sky. With a sudden wave of his arm, a six meter wide column of fire instantly shot downwards. Just as it was about to approach Yun Che, it changed into a fire phoenix that danced in midair. As the temperature boiled, it nearly melted the ground.
Yun Che was not the least bit afraid of phoenix fire, but the profound energy attack of a high level Throne was still within the flame. Yun Che’s complexion grew grim as he instantly raised Dragon Fault. With a loud roar, the heavy sword force swung upwards against the air, straight for the fire phoenix.
Whoosh!!
Phoenix flame and the heavy sword’s windstorm directly clashed head-on. Yun Che’s hair had been blown up by the chaos as a distorted expression appeared on his face. The heavy sword force only lasted for half a breath before it had been completely smashed apart. The fire phoenix crazily descended, charging at Yun Che and the Snow Phoenix.
The sound of phoenix fire exploding roiled like surging thunder, as the incomparably terrifying heat suddenly inflated the surrounding space. Yun Che’s groans and the Snow Phoenix’s mournful cries came from within the blaze. One was knocked to the east while the other was knocked to the west….
“Little Chan!”
The Snow Phoenix lost its balance, as though it was a dead leaf that was being swirled inside a gale, it fell several hundred meters away… Two stretches of ghastly blood red had quickly spread on the originally snow white pair of wings. After landing on the ground, it no longer made another sound. It was, after all, only a Sky Profound Beast, how could it withstand an attack from a high level Throne?
Bang!
Yun Che also heavily fell down, the fierce attack smashed two enormous holes on the ground. After he fell, the clothes on Yun Che’s entire body were broken into pieces, dyed all over with bloodstains. All four of his limbs twitched unceasingly, and it seemed as if he used all his strength to lift Dragon Fault. While struggling to finally stand, he panted with his mouth open in huge coarse breaths.
“Jasmine, with my current body, what is the maximum time I can maintain ‘Purgatory’?” Yun Che asked grimly.
Jasmine was also very clear that since Feng Chihuo recognized Yun Che’s profound handle, he had to die no matter what. If he wanted to kill Feng Chihuo, he had to forcibly open Purgatory’s gate. She said carefully: “Fifteen breaths… as for the most extreme limit, it cannot exceed twenty breaths. Otherwise, all the blood vessels in your body will rupture, even your Great Way of the Buddha won’t be able to save you!”
“Tsk tsk, not bad. No wonder our prince had specially sent me to kill you. You do have some ability, after receiving a move that contains thirty percent of my strength, you actually had not been beaten half dead, and can even stand up.”
Feng Chihuo casually dropped from midair toward Yun Che. The disdain in his eyes was as though he was looking at lamb about to be slaughtered. He moved his wrist, as malice flickered in his eyes: “You made quite a bit of blood flow from this arm of mine, there are even a few cracks that have appeared in my bones. In order to repay this favor of yours, tell me, should I snap every bone in your body, or pinch each and every one of them into pieces?”
Yun Che clenched his teeth and forcibly lifted the heavy sword as his entire body tottered on the verge of collapse: “Even if I die, even if I have to risk my life, I’m still going to… leave a few more injuries on your body!”
After he finished speaking, Yun Che roared. Swinging the heavy sword up, he smashed toward Feng Chihuo, who was only three steps away from him.
“Hahahaha!” The incoming heavy sword did not have the least bit of imposingness, rather, it seemed as if it was about to fall from Yun Che’s grasp any moment. Feng Chihuo laughed out loud as he extended a hand to grab at Dragon Fault: “You alone, can actually injure…”
Just as Feng Chihuo’s hand was about to touch Dragon Fault, Yun Che’s expression suddenly changed. “Purgatory” opened, and Yun Che, who was on the verge of collapse, seemed like a ferocious beast that had suddenly awakened from the abyss as his entire body bursted with a incredibly frightening strength.
“Falling Moon Sinking Star!!”
A sky tremoring dragon cry came from Dragon Fault as the ground beneath Yun Che’s feet suddenly shook. Cracks resembling spider webs crazily spread… this sudden variation greatly changed Feng Chihuo’s complexion. At such a close range, even if he was a deity, he would still not have time to react… That one strike brimming with all of Yun Che’s power ruthlessly smashed on his arm.
Boom!!
The cracking sound of bone disintegrating was drowned within a world-shaking explosion. The surrounding mountain stones were all twisted upwards by the heavy sword tornado, then, they were all crushed into the most minute of fragmented dust. Feng Chihuo’s left elbow bone had been directly smashed broken. Under the enormous attack, his entire person flew like a spinning top as he was smashed three hundred meters away, firmly ramming into a large mountain boulder, crushing it into smithereens.
With Yun Che’s strength, defeating Ling Tianni at the sixth level of the Emperor Profound Realm required the joint help of Xia Qingyue. In normal instances, prevailing over Feng Chihuo at the eighth level of the Emperor Profound Realm was something he had no chance of ever doing! If he was able to sustain Purgatory, he might be able to confront Feng Chihuo, but it was also near impossible… Besides, he could only maintain the Purgatory state for at most fifteen breaths. After fifteen breaths, he would be toying with fate, and after twenty breaths, he would be courting death.
And the only hope he had to kill Feng Chihuo… was to utilize all his strength and willpower, so much that he had to overdraft his life force! At the same time, he had to use any kind of tactics and tricks —— no matter how shameless and despicable they were.
With Yun Che’s current body strength, Feng Chihuo’s attack that contained thirty percent of his strength was still a fire attribute attack, it was impossible to place him in too miserable of a state. Even the utterly tattered clothes and those numerous little wounds were all devised by him… they were all for this one moment. And the results were even better than what he had anticipated… directly crippling one of Feng Chihuo’s arms!
Facing Feng Chihuo, who only had one arm left, his chances had naturally gotten better!
Feng Chihuo got up from the crushed rocks with an extremely angry snarl. His entire left arm dangled, its shape appearing to be hideously twisted. His right arm grabbed onto it as he felt intolerable pain. With most of the bones in his left arm broken, he howled, as if insane: “Yun Che… I’m going to tear you into ten thousand pieces!!”
Feng Chihuo had lived for over one hundred years, his combat experience was incomparably rich, so he was definitely not one of those who were arrogant and condescending. On the contrary, even when facing an opponent weaker than himself, he would still be very cautious… However, Yun Che was just too weak. Earth Profound Realm was two great realms weaker than him, how could he possibly be on guard? A fierce tiger going up against a wounded wolf might be on guard, but how could a tiger be on guard against a wounded young rabbit?
The acute pain in his arm was unbearable, yet far beneath the shock in his heart… The power Yun Che suddenly exploded out with just a while ago was only a strength a high level Throne could put forth, how could it appear from a profound practitioner at the Earth Profound Realm?
Just as he let out a howl, the figure before him swayed, and Yun Che had already attacked again, bringing along an imposing force not weaker than before. His eyes especially, flickered with a blood red radiance.
“Die!!” Instantly submerging in his anger and hatred, Feng Chihuo roared as his right arm shot out. The palm he poured his berserking profound energy in directly grabbed at Yun Che’s chest… with the intent to immediately tear Yun Che’s heart into pieces. Due to the arm that had been smashed broken, why would he care whether or not Yun Che was a demon from Illusory Demon Realm? Under his extreme fury, he only wanted to tear him into pieces.
RIIIP!!
Feng Chihuo’s palm struck empty air, as four Yun Ches appeared around him at the same time. Since Feng Chihuo had plenty of experience, even though he was shocked, his mind had not been thrown into disorder. Instead of locking onto Yun Che’s position, all the phoenix profound energy in his body rushed forth, launching out in all four directions.
Bang!!
Yun Che quickly dodged behind Feng Chihuo, then firmly smashed Dragon Fault on Feng Chihuo’s back. At the same time, Feng Chihuo instantly ignited his profound energy and also firmly struck Yun Che’s chest.
The two different forces exploded simultaneously, causing so much shaking that even the surrounding mountains violently trembled. A bloody flower burst out of Yun Che’s chest as he was ruthlessly knocked flying. Feng Chihuo was even more miserable, he had been fiercely smashed to the ground by Dragon Fault, and then rolled far away like a gourd. A groove half a finger deep was smashed out onto his back. He used a palm to pound the ground and suddenly jumped up. Before he had time to stand firm, he suddenly discovered that the Yun Che he had sent flying was actually floating in midair. Then, Yun Che’s entire body combusted with flame as he dove down like a shooting star.
Empyrean Dance of the Phoenix Wing!!
“Wha…What!?!”
Feng Chihuo widened his eyes, not daring to believe the fact that Yun Che was actually in midair, and was even borrowing the power that knocked him into the air. His gaze darkened as a ball of extremely powerful phoenix flame ignited on the palm of his right hand… Contained in this palm, was the unrestrained accumulation of all his strength, and he shot it at Yun Che within his raging roar.
Facing against Feng Chihuo’s attack, Yun Che’s descent had not diminished in the slightest, even the direction in which he was diving toward had not changed, as if he was willing to risk his life to receive Feng Chihuo’s attack in order to smash out a strike of his own… Once his all out attack had come out, it was too late to retrieve it even if Feng Chihuo wanted to. Facing Yun Che’s fighting style that was entirely trading a life for a life, Feng Chihuo’s eyes fixedly stared wide, and he explosively roared: “You’re courting death!!”
BOOOM!!!!!!
Yun Che’s Dragon Fault and Feng Chihuo’s palm heavily struck the other party’s body at the same time… Numerous blood vessels on Yun Che’s arm ruptured instantly as a huge expanse of blood burst from his chest. Several bones in his ribs and sternum broke apart, and several lines of gaps had even appeared on his internal organs. His entire person had been smashed over a height of three hundred meters.
While the sternum and ribs of Feng Chihuo’s left side were all jolted into pieces, the position of his heart directly shifted by an inch as streams of blood sprayed out of the wound like a geyser. He was unable to believe that he had actually been severely injured to such an extent by a strike from a junior at the Earth Profound Realm, while his own all out attack had not smashed the other party into pieces. In fact, his power had not even entered the opponent’s internal organs, and had actually been firmly resisted against.
That kind of power, that kind of body… how could it only be at the Earth Profound Realm… How was that possible!!
In this brief exchange, the two were both completely covered in blood and injuries. This was because what Yun Che wanted was not an exchange, the preservation of his own life, nor Feng Chihuo’s defeat, rather, he wanted his death! In order to kill Feng Chihuo, he had to throw out all his power into his attacks in these short dozen or so breaths instead of dispersing his power and time to defend or evade.
“Sky——Wolf——Slash!!”
Without attending to his internal and external injuries, the midair Yun Che didn’t wait for himself to regain his balance as he placed all his strength on his heavy sword once more. The silhouette of the Sky Wolf howled as it charged toward Feng Chihuo, furiously ramming onto his chest… Feng Chihuo conjured all the strength within his body to rigidly block the sky wolf silhouette, but due to the extremely fast propelling force of the attack, he was pushed backwards. It was only after both his legs instantly plowed two ditches over thirty meters long across the ground did he barely offset Sky Wolf Slash’s might. However, before he had time to gasp for breath, Yun Che had already fallen from the sky, blasting a strike over.
Feng Chihuo let out a loud cry as he condensed his flame into a sword. But this time, he didn’t attack Yun Che, rather, he put all his strength on the phoenix flame sword to suppress Yun Che’s heavy sword… Each one of Yun Che’s moves were executed without any concern to his own life, but how could Feng Chihuo willingly trade lives with Yun Che? Against such a terrifyingly large power and the lunatic Yun Che, who was trading injury for injury, his anger had already been rapidly replaced by dread and fear.
With every single sword strike Yun Che smashed out, several tens of blood vessels on his arm would burst open. Both his arms were instantly dyed with blood, as if they had just been submerged in a pool of blood. The wounds on his body endlessly spewed out blood, and the internal injuries in his body continually grew more severe as he attacked without reserve. But he didn’t mind it at all; every single sword strike was vicious to the extreme.
Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom…
Chapter 415 - Brutal
Each strike from Yun Che that Feng Chihuo blocked felt as though a mountain was ruthlessly ramming him, directly shaking him so hard that his internal organs felt like rupturing. Facing Yun Che’s blood red eyes and the terrifying impact that passed through his arms, he began to genuinely grow fearful… At this time, under the suppression of Yun Che’s heavy sword, let alone retreating to escape, he couldn’t even let out a single word.
Yun Che’s vision had already changed into a field of hazy red, and only Chihuo remained in this red colored world. The only thing in his heart was an abundant amount of killing intent. However, Feng Chihuo was still a high level Throne, even if it was Yun Che’s attack in his strongest state, they were still blocked one after the other. Yun Che’s expression grew more overcast as a streak of cyan suddenly emitted out of his left arm.
The lowest level profound handle was red, it became orange after possessing the Dragon God’s bloodline, then yellow under the Evil Soul state. Under the Burning Heart state, it became green, and now that he was in the “Purgatory” state…
It had shockingly become the same cyan Yun Canghai possessed! Cyan colored profound handle was equal to one half of the user’s strength!
Under the state where he pushed himself to the limit, utilizing the profound handle would undoubtedly accelerate his energy consumption by a substantial amount and cause an intense battering of impact which would lead to unpredictable consequences. However, in order to thoroughly suppress Feng Chihuo, Yun Che nevertheless decided to use the profound handle.
Bang!!
Feng Chihuo was already barely managing to withstand the heavy sword. Once the profound handle came out, he no longer had any energy left to obstruct that, and was firmly hit on the head with the profound handle… The sound of an explosion instantly came from his head as his entire person was knocking off flying. Then, he fell one hundred fifty meters away on the ground, he smashed out a large hole several meters deep with his head and upper body buried at the bottom of the large hole.
“AH!!! You bas…”
Feng Chihuo released an animal-like roar as he ferociously lept out of the large hole. His entire face was filled with blood, his complexion, an even brighter red. On his forehead was shockingly a bloody dent the size of a fist. He was discomforted to the point where he appeared insane but before had time to let out a flurry of curses, the figure before his eyes flashed. An ash colored heavy sword ignited with phoenix flame once more appeared within his pupils, along with the cyan profound hand that had changed into a heavy sword.
Feng Chihuo’s eyes became scarlet as both hands clutched his sword. He threw in all his power into the flame sword before greeting Yun Che’s heavy sword and profound hand.
BOOM!!!!
In that instant, three short mountains near the two had simultaneously crashed down from the shaking. The mountains that had been reduced to level ground was as if a blood moon had risen. Inside the blood moon, all the boulders and trees had all been demolished into fine powder. The two people were dead leaves that had been caught in two separate storms as they lightly fluttered down in two different directions.
Bang!!
Feng Chihuo’s body fiercely smashed onto an ancient tree. He fell flipped over on the ground and violently coughed. Every cough would bring along a large amount of blood clots as he nearly coughed out the smashed pieces of his internal organs out… However, even at such a state, he still didn’t have time to gasp for breath because Yun Che’s silhouette emerged before his eyes like a ghost once more.
Yun Che’s current condition looked even worse than his, his entire body was bloody, there wasn’t a single spot on his face nor limbs that had not been dyed blood red. Especially the heavy sword he was grabbing onto with both hands, streams and streams of blood flowed and dripped down. However, his imposing aura and demonic speed had not decreased in the slightest. Just as Feng Chihuo’s gaze captured him, in the next instant, Yun Che Star God’s Broken Shadow’d to his front.
“You… lunatic!!” Feng Chihuo’s eyeballs were shocked to the point they had nearly burst out. Even though he had received Yun Che’s heavy strike, Yun Che had obviously also received the strike that contained all his power. He also could see how gravely injured Yun Che was currently… but under such a conditions, he actually was not suppressing his wounds, rather, he was continuing his assault!
Feng Chihuo had lived for over one hundred years. It wasn’t as if he had never seen a lunatic before, but he had never seen a lunatic that had become crazed to this extent.
He tightly gritted his teeth. Just as he was about to gather up all the profound energy within his body, his eyes suddenly enlarged… reflected on his eyes was an azure blue dragon roaring up at the sky.
Dragon Soul Domain!
The soul shaking dragon cry resounded through the skies of the Phoenix Mountain Range, making numbers fire profound beasts all crouch on the ground while trembling in fear. Feng Chihuo’s entire body began shivering as deep fright continually condensed atop his face. The profound energy he had just conjured had quickly scattered under his fright…
Yun Che’s maintaining of the “Purgatory” state was also quickly approaching its utmost limit. If he could, he really wanted to use “Destroying Sky Decimating Earth” to obliterate Feng Chihuo, but due to the severeness of his internal injuries, his body was on the edge of collapse. If he used “Destroying Sky Decimating Earth” his body would perhaps explode instantly.
Using Dragon Soul Domain would overdraft his remaining power, making an enormous tear appear within his mental state. But under the circumstance of not being able to use Destroying Sky Decimating Earth, even if the price was huge, in order to put an end to this accident and completely eliminate Feng Chihuo, he opened Dragon Soul Domain without hesitation. Not only would Dragon Soul Domain allow him to hit his target, the most important thing it did was forcing all of the opponents profound energy defense to completely disintegrate.
If it was under normal circumstances, as a high level Throne, the effects of Dragon Soul Domain would lessen by a great amount to Feng Chihuo. But due to all the injuries on his body had greatly disorientated Feng Chihuo. With his mind mostly crushed, Yun Che suddenly charged in with the last of his gathered power condensed on top of both his hands.
“Falling Moon Sinking Star!!”
The heavy sword lifted, phoenix flame rose. Dragon Fault, which bore the last of Yun Che’s strength, brought along the aura of a death god as it smashed toward Feng Chihuo’s heart… Confronted with the fast approaching death, Feng Chihuo instinctively extended both his hands to protect his front within his trembling terror, barely managing to set up a profound energy defensive barrier.
Boom!!!!
The ground burst open. Under his crumbling state of mind, Feng Chihuo’s constructed defense popped like a weak soap bubble. In the midst of the world shaking sound, lines and lines of cracks rapidly spread beneath his feet, directly extending to more than three hundred meters. As for Feng Chihuo, he had completely disappeared from his line of sight… it was not known how deep his body had been sunk deep into the ground.
Pitter-patter…
Pitter-patter…
Fresh blood flowed from the webs of Yun Che’s fingers like pearls from a broken string, quickly trickling drip by drip onto the ruins underfoot. His previous all-out attack made countless cracks appear on his entire body. Blood dyed his body, making him resemble a bloody demon god, an Asura coming out of the battlefield. Even the wind brushing past his body carried the pungent smell of blood.
Finally… over…
Bang!!
Dragon Fault powerlessly dropped from Yun Che’s hands. In the midst of its heavy landing sound, the red light in Yun Che’s eyes disappeared. The profound handle had also return back in his arm as his eyes slowly closed. After his entire body swayed, he finally heavily fell onto the ground… When he had decided that he had to kill Feng Chihuo, he knew that this battle would be a terribly brutal one. Because with his current strength, wanting to kill a high level Throne required him to pay an extremely large cost. He had finally succeeded… An Earth Profound killing a late stage Emperor Profound, he could be said to have created a never before seen legend in the Profound Sky Continent.
This outcome’s crucial point stemmed from the very first time he had caught Feng Chihuo off guard and destroyed an arm. Otherwise, even in a state where he forced himself to the limit, it would be difficult for him to suppress Feng Chihuo.
“Have to… quickly… leave… this place…”
Yun Che struggled to stretch out an arm. Pressing the dirty before him, he had to exhaust almost all his strength to crawl a few inches forward. What he ought to do now should be tending to his wounds, but this place was Phoenix Mountain Rage, Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory! Below him, still existed the Great Phoenix Formation. The sounds of his battle with Feng Chihuo was extremely loud, it was quite possible that it had already alerted a few members of the Divine Phoenix Sect. If he didn’t leave right away, the consequences would be unthinkable. Forget about whether the person who came over was a Throne, even the lowest level disciple in Divine Phoenix Sect could take his life.
He looked at his left hand and continuously summoned for the Snow Phoenix. However, even though the profound seal had flashed a multiple number of times, The Snow Phoenix still had never appeared. The profound seal had not disappeared, proof that the Snow Phoenix had not died yet. However, Feng Chihuo’s attack was enough to make it seriously injured to the point of near death.
“Huff… Huff… Ugh…”
Heavy moans of pain suddenly came from the direction where Yun Che held out his hand. Furthermore, it sounded far, yet near. Yun Che’s complexion changed. Little by little, he turned his head around. A hand suddenly appeared from the very edge of the ravine carved out by a Sky Wolf Slash… Then, a completely bloody figure slowly crawled up.
Feng Chihuo!!
“Drats… he’s not dead yet!” Jasmine said in a low voice.
It could be said that the current Feng Chihuo was at his most miserable state. His entire body had been badly mutilated, not the least bit of a human’s appearance could be seen, but he was actually clearly alive. Moreover, judging by how quick he was climbing out of that ravine, it was clear that his condition was at least comparatively better than Yun Che’s.
Impossible… Under Dragon Soul Domain… He basically had no power to defend… How could he not have died…
Feng Chihuo, who had climbed up, swayed as he stood up. Seeing the bloody Yun Che sprawled on the ground, he continued to sway as he let out a coarse yet crazed laughter: “Ha… Haha… Hahahaha… How… could a little… bastard… like you… kill me…”
He advanced forward. As he stepped closer to Yun Che, a terrifying maliciousness surfaced on his face: “I’m going to… tear your entire body… bit by bit… thoroughly into shreds…”
Right at this time, an enormous silhouette suddenly swept over from overheard accompanied by a somewhat frail long cry. Yun Che struggled to lift his head. After that, wild joy rose within his eyes: “Little Chan!!”
Half of the snowy feathers on the Snow Phoenix had become the color of blood, but it still strongly flew over. As it flew above Yun Che, both its wings swatted and three streaks of gleaming cold icicles launched straight at Feng Chihuo.
Pew pew pew!!
If it was in normal circumstances, how could the Snow Phoenix’s attack possible harm Feng Chihuo? But Feng Chihuo’s body was currently utterly broken, even his steps were unstable, so it was simply impossible for him to defend against the Snow Phoenix’s attack. The three icicles easily pierced right through Feng Chihuo’s body. Included among them was one that struck a fist sized bloody hole through his throat.
Feng Chihuo’s eyes rounded. Under the icicle attack, he heavily fell backwards and moved no more. Beneath his body, was a quickly expanding large pool of blood… This time, he was dead to the point where he could no longer die. He had perhaps thought about how his life would end, but he never would have thought that he would die so tragically, nor would he have imagined that he would die under the hands of a profound practitioner of the Earth Profound Realm and his contracted Sky Profound Beast.
Yun Che let out a deep breath of relief. As his mind relaxed, the side effects of using Dragon Soul Domain violently surged up, making his greatly impacting his consciousness into a muddled state. He extended a hand at the Snow Phoenix and said in a hoarse voice: “Little Chan… Let’s… go… the higher the better… the farther the better…”
The Snow Phoenix conjured up a light breeze, lifting Yun Che up on its back. Then, it flapped his wings, flying high into the skies.
Yun Che’s heart was at long last settled somewhat, and it was just at this time that Jasmine’s cold voice suddenly sounded: “You’d best stay conscious…. You should know why it had not immediately arrived after you had called it so many times, it’s inevitable that its wounds are extremely severe, not only that, it had been injured in the wings. Even though it managed to fly now, I doubt that it could fly far.”
Yun Che “…”
Jasmine definitely didn’t say that just to scare him. Yun Che bit the tip of his tongue, allowing himself a brief period of consciousness. He immediately felt the Snow Phoenix’s entire body tremble acutely. Usually, when it encountered a large gale, it would still fly smoothly, but now, a casual mountain breeze blowing over would cause its body to violently sway.
“Little Chan… You can do it!” Yun Che yelled softly. If he could not fly out of Phoenix Mountain Range, he would definitely die.
However, he had obviously underestimated the Snow Phoenix Beast’s injuries. After struggling to fly over a few kilometers, a strong breeze came head-on. Under this strong breeze, the Snow Phoenix immediately let out a painful cry as both wings suddenly spasmed before it dropped down.
“Little Chan!!”
In front of Yun Che’s shout, the Snow Phoenix didn’t react at all because it had already fainted in midair. Yun Che possessed the Phoenix bloodline, the Dragon God’s bloodline, the protection of the True God’s profound arts, and a completely changed body, so no matter how serious of an injury he obtained, he could still endure. But the Snow Phoenix was different, it was only an ordinary Sky Profound Beast. Struggling to fly for so long with its grave injuries was already its limit.
Following the Snow Phoenix’s midair collapse, Yun Che didn’t even have the energy to clutch at its snowy wings and was slowly separated from the Snow Phoenix as they fell… Not long after they fell, Yun Che’s body heavily smashed into soil that wasn’t even that hard… It was apparently a huge slanted slope, because after he fell, he quickly rolled downwards with the Snow Phoenix Beast. As he rolled, his half conscious vision saw the place they were tumbling toward. It was actually… an extremely steep cliff!! He saw various mountain peaks over the cliff… and none were higher than the mountain peak he was currently rolling down from.
In that split second, he immediately understood that he and the Snow Phoenix had fallen on top of that highest mountain peak in Phoenix Mountain Range. They were currently tumbling down from highest summit… from an altitude of over four thousand five hundred meters…
His body had finally tumbled down the cliff, then, his tumbling changed into a sharp drop… With his head facing upwards, he couldn’t see the ground beneath him. He didn’t know if the upper part of the mountain or the middle of the mountain was beneath him… or if he would directly drop to the bottom of the mountain.
The whistling of the wild wind swept over, with his mind and body severely overspent along with his grave injuries, he was unable to control his body that was currently in midair, so much that he was unable to conjure up any profound energy defense… He wasn’t sure if the bloodline he obtained from gods and his powerful natural defense could withstand the force of impact he would receive from falling under a state in which he had no profound energy defense… Whether or not his body and bones would directly be torn and crushed…
The howling of the wind drowned out all other sounds. Aside from the whistling of the wind, there was nothing in Yun Che’s consciousness, he didn’t even have the strength to scream. After several tens of breaths passed, the sound of the wind beside his ears still screamed out. Until finally…
Bang!!!!
He heard the enormous sound of himself falling and the barely discernable fearful cry of a girl…
All the painful sensations in his entire body quickly faded away along with his fuzz consciousness… Half of the last scene he saw was the tall mountain cliff, and the other half was the blue sky… then, the face of a girl that was as beautiful as a dream appeared from the blue sky. Her wide eyes were even brighter than the stars gazed at him. These eyes were as pure as the bright moon, brimming with sincerity, horror, astonishment, and curiosity… Yun Che had seen many beautiful women, but this illusory beauty n front of him still caused his mind to uncontrollably shake…
So beautiful…
Is it a fairy… from the heavens…
This image of a beauty that should not belong in the mortal world became the last thing Yun Che was conscious of. After that, he completely lost consciousness.
Chapter 416 - Princess Snow
Not long after, Yun Che finally recovered some of his consciousness, and pain could be felt through every part of his body. In order to kill Feng Chihuo, he had paid a large price, one that was larger than he had expected. Nearly half of all his blood vessels had ruptured, seventy percent of his muscles received various levels of harm, and several tens of various sized gaps appeared inside his internal organs. If these injuries were on any ordinary profound practitioner’s body, they would long since been dead.
The painful sensation told Yun Che that he had not died, as his bodily functions also began to recover. He vaguely sensed a current of warm profound energy slowly flowing through his body… This was not his profound energy, rather, it was someone else’s. This stream of profound energy was gentle and careful, as if it wanted to heal his injuries, yet was also afraid of accidentally injuring him. This cautious and hesitant activity proved that the owner of this profound energy had never used profound energy to heal injuries.
Who could it be…
Who’s saving me…
At this moment, the scene he saw before he lost consciousness appeared inside Yun Che’s mind… That was a beautiful and pure face that should not exist in the mortal world. Even though he only had a glimpse of it in the extremely short instant before he lost consciousness, it still left a long lasting mark and had been engraved in the depths of his soul. No matter who saw it, that kind of beauty was impossible to forget for an entire lifetime.
Was it a dream… or a painting on a scroll? No… even in a dream, even if it was the best artist in the world, that kind of peerless beauty was impossible to portray.
That beautiful dream-like face made Yun Che’s consciousness that had just awakened feel an uncontrollable hazy intoxication, even the pain in his body had been forgotten. That current of warm profound energy slowly disappeared, and Yun Che’s consciousness went silent.
Not long after that, Yun Che’s consciousness awakened once more, and still felt that warm and gentle profound energy. The time after that, his consciousness continuously woke and slept. Every time it recovered, he would feel that stream of profound energy… or perhaps every time that stream of profound energy came over, his consciousness would awaken for a short period of time.
In the end, at some moment in time, the fingers on both of Yun Che’s hands twitched, as his incredibly heavy eyelids opened bit by bit under the urging of his willpower.
What entered his eyes was a bright light and the blue sky. Yun Che’s body had an astonishing recovery rate. As soon as he opened his eyes, he felt the existence of his body and four limbs. Even though they were heavy, he distinctly felt that he could control their movements. A bit of profound energy also had collected inside the originally empty profound veins. These profound energies also helped his body recover its bodily functions, so much that they allowed him to move in the simplest of actions… including standing up.
Yun Che grabbed the ground, gritted his teeth, and struggled to sit up…
“Ah, you’re awake!”
The sound of a girl’s voice came over to his ears, this voice was young and tender, a sound so ethereal that it seemed to not be from this world. When he heard this voice, an uncontrollable shudder came over Yun Che’s soul, as well as a kind of crazy, unsuppressable longing… a longing to know the owner of this voice, to know what kind of girl could let out such a pure, ethereal voice.
He turned his head to look at the girl who was standing beside him… It was a girl that seemed to have walked out of the fairy realm. Once he clearly saw her face, Yun Che’s consciousness suddenly blanked out for an instant, not daring to believe the image before his eyes… because he didn’t dare to believe that such an incomparably beautiful face existed in this world. Yun Che searched his own memories, yet still couldn’t come up with any words to describe how this face looked like.
The girl wore a luxurious red garment, embroidered on top was a flying phoenix. This was not the first time Yun Che had seen a phoenix robe, but her phoenix robe was even more gorgeous than the one Yun Che had seen before. No matter the red or the golden color, both glistened brightly, as though every thread and every decoration was made of the world’s most expensive material. However, this phoenix robe was like cosmetics on jade, overshadowed by her snowy creamy skin. If this extravagant outfit was seen someplace else, it would leave one dumbstruck, yet would never attract any of Yun Che’s attention. His eyes fixed on the girl’s face, incapable of moving away. Especially her beautiful eyes… they seemed to billow like blue ripples, condensed inside her dreamy, illusory pupils, becoming a illusory, poetic, fairy-like dream.
This was that fairy he saw before he lost consciousness… and not from his imagination, nor an illusion. She stood there quietly as her silky eyelashes fluttered, with not a single bit of impurity, her eyes had a joyous expression of clear mountains and springs. Then, she looked at him with somewhat nervousness. The gently wind lifted the corner of her skirts, bringing about a simple elegance, yet the most beautiful poem of this world could not describe it.
She looked to only be around fifteen or sixteen, her beautiful dreamy, liquid eyes were young. In terms of appearance, she couldn’t compare with Xia Qingyue, but in terms of how delicate and perfect her complexion was, even Xia Qingyue, number one fairy of Blue Wind, was inferior. In Yun Che’s two lifetimes, out of all the females he had encountered, in terms of complexion, only Jasmine could stand shoulder to shoulder with her. It was as if the heavens favored her, and gave her this fairy-like complexion before his eyes.
If he was an ordinary man, he believed that his heart would definitely be lost, but he wasn’t an ordinary man. In the entire Profound Sky Continent, it was perhaps impossible to find a second who could make him forget himself like that just with their complexion. He suddenly moved his gaze away, slightly bent his head as he calmed his heart. When he lifted his head to look at her fairy-like face again, it was still indescribably beautiful, but he was no longer distracted.
He opened his dried lips, speaking with a hoarse and rough voice: “Was it you… who saved me…”
“Um… It seems like it.” The girl slightly perked her flowerlike lips and spoke as though she was uncertain: “This is the first time I tried to save someone, so I’m not sure if I did it right. It’s been many days, and I wasn’t sure if I should tell royal father, but good thing you woke up. Oh right, what’s your name? Which elder are you under? Why did you fall down from Absolute Phoenix Cliff?
The girl’s casual “royal father” caused Yun Che’s heart to violently tremble.
Royal father…
Extremely luxurious phoenix robe…
Around fifteen to sixteen years old…
And a face so beautiful to the point of being illusory…
Was she actually the one Hua Minghai spoke of, the “Princess Snow” known as Profound Sky’s number one beauty!?
Originally, Hua Minghai had used an exaggerated tone of voice when mentioning “Princess Snow”, so he never believed it. But this girl in front of him, it was indeed adequate for her to be titled “Profound Sky’s number one beauty” because of her face.
However, if she really was Princess Snow, the most treasured pearl of Divine Phoenix Sect, the entire Divine Phoenix Empire’s treasure bestowed by the heavens… then why was she here? When she said “many days”, it meant that he had lost consciousness for several days. And in these past “many days”, she had always been here! What exactly was going on? What exactly was the current situation he was in?
Yun Che’s mind quickly spun as every kind of possibility rapidly flashed in his mind. He shifted his body, his cordial tone of voice containing a hint of terror: “My name is Feng Lingyun, under Nineteenth Elder. I was training alone inside Phoenix Mountain Range and encountered an extremely terrifying profound beast, then was forced to jump off Absolute Phoenix Cliff… I thank Princess Snow for saving my life.”
The girl’s eyes were clear, and as bright as early morning. In front of these beautiful eyes and this girl who had saved his life, it was no doubt an enormous sin to lie. But since he had not recovered from his grave injuries, what he had to do right now was to protect his own life, no matter what. He knew the reason why this girl had saved him, and the reason why she wasn’t on guard with him was because he possessed the same phoenix aura she did.
“Ohhh…” Princess Snow innocently tilted her delicate head. Then, her fine brows bent, as she started to laugh lightly: “As expected of what royal father said, you knew who I was in an instant. Royal father said that within the sect, even though there aren’t many who have seen me, as long as it’s someone within the clan, even if they’ve never seen me before, they would recognize me instantly.
The girl laughed with sincerity, it was as if her laughter was heavenly music that came from between the clouds which could rinse the most evil of thoughts from the world. Yun Che opened his mouth, and uttered: “Your Highness is the most beautiful girl in the world, no matter who it sees Princess Snow, they would never recognize falsely… This place, where is this? Have I… disturbed Your Highness’s secluded cultivation?”
“This is Phoenix Perching Valley, a place that I’ve played in since childhood.” Princess Snow was not on guard with Yun Che at all as she casually replied. Perhaps it was his phoenix bloodline, or perhaps it was because she had always been this pure, and never had contact with any sin, nor had to be on guard at all: “Royal father has been really busy lately and is afraid that I’ll be hurt by others, so he allowed me to come here to concentrate on cultivating World Ode of the Phoenix. Aside from me and royal father, usually no one is allowed to enter, you’re actually the first, you know.”
“…Your Highness, then why didn’t you tell… Sect Master about me? Your Highness is not afraid that I… could be a bad person?” Yun Che clasped his chest, checking the condition of his injuries.
“I did think about telling royal father.” The girl stuck out her white, graceful, jadelike nose: “But if I tell royal father, he’ll definitely kill you. You fell from such a high place, and is already this injured. If you’re killed by royal father, that would be too pitiful, and Little White would be sad. Bad person? …You’re the same as me, a descendant of the Phoenix, how could you be a bad person? Besides, Little White is so beautiful and docile, its owner would never be a bad person.”
What saved Yun Che was not only her profound energy, but her soft heart —— even though he used such an abrupt method to enter her territory. Only… Little White? What did that mean?
By his ears, a somewhat weak, yet still resonant cry of a bird sounded. This sound made Princess Snow softly “ah” as she turned around, then lithely ran like a sprite toward a magnificent, snow white silhouette: “Little White, your injuries have not recovered, you’re not allowed to move, otherwise, that means you’re not being obedient… even if you see that your owner is awake, you still can’t move rashly.”
On the ground not even thirty meters behind Yun Che was the Snow Phoenix Beast. Its wings were unfolded, and the bloodstains on its wings had been washed clean, without any trace of a bloody color. Princess Snow stood by its side and used her little snow white hands to lightly stroke its soft, ice-cold, snowy feather. From an agitated state, she made it obediently calm down as it carefully withdrew its wings.
Yun Che was shocked… it was the Snow Phoenix! It was actually okay! His own body could barely resist falling from such a high place, but the Snow Phoenix had already lost consciousness mid flight, unable to fully make itself float and use any defensive abilities. From such a height, it had sharply fallen down, so its bones and body ought to have been crushed. Why did it seem that its injuries were much more lighter than his own?
Could it be that this girl had saved the Snow Phoenix before it fell?
Then, the “White” she spoke of, was… Snow Phoenix Little Chan!
Chapter 417 - Snow Dance (1)
“You’re the one… who saved Little Chan?”
Seeing the Snow Phoenix safe and sound, with injuries already largely healed, Yun Che felt much more at ease.
“That’s right.” Princess Snow turned around and said happily: “It fell down after you and I had to support it with my strength. Otherwise, Little White would have fallen to death already. Eh? Little Chan? That’s her name? Ehhh… What a weird name. I think that Little White sounds so much better, isn’t that right, Little White?”
Scree… Snow Phoenix lowered its head and let out a clear low cry. From how it acted, it seemed as though… It agreed with Princess Snow.
Through the profound seal, Yun Che felt that the Snow Phoenix’s injuries had already healed to about seventy percent. Flying out of the Phoenix Mountain Range would not be a problem at all. Even though its conditions were still extremely poor, staying at such a place would be too dangerous. Now that he had regained consciousness, he would have to leave immediately.
Yun Che gathered all the strength within his body and stood up unsteadily. As he stood up, Princess Snow’s beautiful eyes stared wide as she exclaimed worriedly: “You… Why did you stand up. With such serious injuries, you shouldn’t move around.”
Yun Che shook his head gently and said: “I thank Princess Snow for saving me and Little Chan. I will forever remember your kindness towards us. However, this place is Princess Snow’s territory. Me dropping down here is already an unforgivable crime. I do not dare… to disturb Your Highness… Little Chan… Let’s go… Ugh!”
A sudden intense pain came from his chest and Yun Che face paled immediately as he spat out a mouth of blood mist with a “puu”. His body staggered and he half knelt to the ground.
“Ahhhh!” Princess Snow screamed in shock and rushed towards Yun Che, instinctively wanting to go forward to lend him a hand. However, as she neared him, she suddenly stopped and even retracted the hand that she had offered. She’d even retreated a few steps and said nervously: “You… How are you? I already said, with such serious injuries, you shouldn’t be moving around. Hurry up and rest. I… I will try my best to use my profound energy to help you recuperate your injuries.”
Yun Che supported himself by placing his hand on the ground. After a while, he finally calmed down. He shook his head and persisted: “It’s alright, I do not dare to continue to interrupt Your Highness. Furthermore, if Sect Master were to find out, I would definitely… Cough… Cough cough…”
Yun Che’s chest rose intensely and he continuously spat out several blood clots. Even though he had regained consciousness, his internal and external injuries were still extremely severe.
“No worries,” Princess Snow waved her snow white petite hand: “I won’t blame you, nor will I tell my royal father so you can just be at ease and stay here to recuperate your injuries. If you were to persist any more, you injuries will worsen. Also… Also, I like Little White a lot. She’s the most beautiful profound beast that I have ever seen. If you were to leave, Little White would have to leave with you… I really cannot bear it.”
“…” Yun Che finally understood why Princess Snow was unwilling to let him leave. She even promised not to tell her father about it. Half of the reason was due to her soft personality, and the other half was no doubt due to… the Snow Phoenix!
Princess Snow said previously that this was a place that only she and her father could enter. Now that she had promised not to tell her father, it would mean that this place was practically the safest place within the entire Divine Phoenix Empire. Furthermore, looking at Yun Che’s current situation, he was not suited to escape… Thinking about this, he instantly calmed down, calming his mind and blood. He sat down on the floor: “Then… Your Highness, pardon my intrusion…”
When he finished speaking, he closed his eyes and started to channel Great Way of the Buddha, using the vital energy of heaven and earth to help recuperate his body… The passive recovery of the Great Way of the Buddha could not compare to when he actively channeled it. Once his regained consciousness, the speed at which he recovered was largely increased.
Seeing Yun Che willing to stay made Princess Snow heave a small sigh of relief. She carefully looked at Yun Che for a while before hopping over beside the Snow Phoenix and pouncing on it. Her whole body was on its body as she happily said: “That’s great, Little White. We can play together now. Wahh~~~ Your feathers are so soft, so cooling… Why are you so pretty…”
Although Yun Che kept his eyes closed while treating his injuries, he could still hear what was happening. The fairy like voice drifted into his ears along with the wind, causing his mind to waver… Such good looks, such a great voice, so pure and flawless… Was she really a human child? Or was she someone born from gathering all of the world’s most beautiful objects…
——————————————
Phoenix Perching Valley was surrounded by mountains on three sides and the remaining south side, was the three thousand meter Absolute Phoenix Cliff. This place seemed to gather all the spiritual energy from the whole of Divine Phoenix Mountain and at one glance, it was all a pure clean green unlike other places which were dried and wilted crimson. Even the wind seem exceptionally clean and gentle. In the middle of Phoenix Perching Valley was a calm and clear lake. Beside the lake was a completely snow white and strikingly beautiful Snow Phoenix drinking from the clear lake water. Beside it was a girl that seemed as though she was a fairy from a painting.
The girl wore an elegant phoenix robe, but it was overshadowed by her glistening jadelike skin. Her back view, side view were all like a fairy from dream. Without even looking at her face and just by her back view, one could tell that her beauty was one only deities possessed.
The young girl breathed in the clean lake air for a while, and then let out a melodious laughter. She raised her jade fingers and gently released her hair tie, letting her shimmering long black hair scatter like a broken dam. Each strand of hair seemed as though it had its own life and danced in the air before falling onto her shoulder.
As her jade hand lowered, the straps on her robe were gently released as well. The golden colored phoenix robe embroidered with a golden phoenix gently slid off her shoulders… Without the clothes, she was so perfect that it was hypnotizing. Her soul shocking jade body was exposed within the accompaniment of the gentle mountain breeze, along with her flawlessly snow white back, her thin waist, and her slender and flawless legs… and all of these could only generate the word “perfection” in anyone’s mind. This view of just her back, was able to make a man lose control and go crazy.
She removed her golden shoes and revealed her snow lotus-like feet. She waved at the Snow Phoenix, and gently stepped into the lake with a flawless smile. Even without her jade feet in the pool water, they were already mesmerizingly glistening.
“Little White, do you want to bathe together? This is where where I bathe everyday.”
The entire Divine Phoenix Mountain Region was scorching hot except for this place, which was quiet and clear. Even the lake water was slightly cool. The young girl scooped up lake water, allowing it to flow from between her fingers. The edge of her lips twitched slightly as she silently looked at the water flowing from her jade arms to the snow humps in front of her chest.
The lake water was extremely clear, so clear that the smallest grains of sand underwater could be seen. Her beautiful figure was even more distinct, but unfortunately, no one was there to appreciate this great scenery. With her, was only a beautiful profound beast whose greatest interest was drinking in the sweet lake water.
“Little White, do you really not want to bathe together… Ugh, why do you already have an owner… I really like you… Because I like the color white, which is also the color of snow… When I was thirteen, Divine Phoenix City had a huge snowfall and that was the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen. I felt that all of me was fused with the white snow… However, after that day, I have never seen snow again…”
The young girl supported her beautiful face with her hand as she looked at the Snow Phoenix. Within her beautiful eyes was a blurred light. As she muttered to herself, her jade shoulders were exposed on the water’s surface, its outline was pure beauty personified, the scene was extremely attractive.
“Ahhh…” The young girl suddenly shouted as she turned towards the south and gently said: “Little White, I think your owner has already woken up. Let’s go find him.”
She lightly flew out and put on the elegant phoenix robe back onto her mesmerizing jade body. She landed on the broad back of the Snow Phoenix as she shouted happily: “Let’s go.”
The Snow Phoenix cried happily as it stretched its wings and flew in Yun Che’s direction.
This time that Yun Che went into meditation, was another two whole days. By the time he regained consciousness, his internal and external injuries had already recovered by about thirty percent, his profound strength had also recovered by about twenty to thirty percent. In less than a week, he should more or less be completely healed as long as he does not engage against anyone in the meantime. Otherwise, his injuries would no doubt become worse… As such, this place, where he was never interrupted, was the best place to stay.
The prerequisite for him being here was to not let anyone know he was here, and this decision laid with Princess Snow, who thought that he was a Phoenix disciple.
A white figure flashed past the sky and circled above his head before slowly landing in front of him. Princess Snow jumped down from the back of the Snow Phoenix and looked at him with a blossoming smile: “You’re finally awake. Otherwise, Little White would be worried to death. Do you feel that your injuries are better?”
The girl’s smile was simply too mesmerizing. Yun Che lost concentration for a moment before frantically saying: “I’ve recovered a lot. I thank Princess Snow for her concern. Look.”
As he spoke, he stretched out his limbs which were already able to move freely.
“Wah! You actually recovered so quickly. I still thought you would take a long long time.” As she said this, she took a look at the Snow Phoenix, and her tone suddenly turned rather sheepish: “However, your injuries have not completely recovered. You shouldn’t move around too much. Stay here for more days, I won’t let royal father know.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.” Yun Che smiled. He now knew that the reason Princess Snow was willing to let him stay was because she really liked the Snow Phoenix. The Snow Phoenix was a pure white elegant beast. Furthermore, it was an ice type, which was rarely seen in Divine Phoenix Empire. Within the fire elemental Divine Phoenix City, it could be said to be extinct. Therefore, it would make her curious and envious. Or perhaps, it was because she was too lonely and its arrival meant that she now had a companion to play with.
Having not eaten for days with a body full of injuries, waves of hunger pangs attacked Yun Che as he sat down. He took out his dragon meat and cooked it using his phoenix fire. Despite the huge body that the Flame Dragon possessed, there was not much meat left due to Yun Che replacing it for his meals. At the moment, up to ninety nine percent of the meat had already been eaten by him. Within his Sky Poison Pearl, there was only a pathetic twenty five kilograms left. However, during this process, his skills at barbecuing the dragon meat increased by folds. Using what degree of fire, for how long, and using what seasonings to cook the most savoring of meat was now easy for him.
Chapter 418 - Snow Dance (2)
Dragon flesh was originally the world’s most delicious meat. This, added with his expert roasting technique, still made Yun Che, who had almost eaten all of the Flame Dragon’s flesh, secretly gulp.
“Waah… Smells good! Something smells good!”
The fragrant aroma of the dragon meat lured over Princess Snow, who had always been playing with the Snow Phoenix. She stood there, staring unblinkingly at the skewered dragon meat in Yun Che’s hands. Once she came closer, the intensity of the scent assaulted her nose, causing her to unconsciously gulp a few times.
“What is it? It smells so good… This is the first time I’ve smelled something this good.”
Princess Snow was Divine Phoenix Sect’s most precious pearl, the environment she grew up in was one an ordinary girl could never imagine. Accompanying her everyday was the most extravagant of meals. He never knew that the dragon meat he roasted due to his hunger would lure her over, and even made her secretly gulp cutely a few times. Yun Che’s heart throbbed uncontrollably. He stopped burning his phoenix flame, and lifted up the already roasted dragon meat: “This is dragon meat, has Your Highness never eaten it before?”
“Dragon meat? I think I ate it before.” Princess Snow was a bit uncertain: “But, I’ve never smelled such fragrant dragon meat… Can, can you let me have a bit of it? I really want to know how such a fragrant meat tastes.”
Even though she was currently talking with Yun Che, her clear eyes continuously stared at the dragon meat in his hands. That hungry expression caused Yun Che to have an urge to pounce over to kiss her. At the same time, he was a bit sad… In her eyes, it’s fine if I, the number one beautiful man in all of Blue Wind Nation, oh no, all of Profound Sky Continent cannot compare to the Snow Phoenix, but it seems like I can’t even compare to roasted meat…
Toward her hopeful, longing expression, even if Yun Che’s heart was ten times more firm, he still wouldn’t have the power to refuse. He handed over the already roasted dragon meat to Princess Snow, and said magnanimously: “Of course. If Your Highness likes it, you can eat all of these, I still have quite a lot leftover.”
“Really… Thank you.”
Princess Snow happily extended her white arm. Then, when she was a few seconds away from the dragon meat, she withdrew her hands back, and asked embarrassedly: “Can you… throw it over to me?”
“…Why?”
“Because royal father said this before, no one is allowed to touch my body, especially men. I can’t not listen to royal father’s words, so… so…”
Yun Che was slightly stunned… Hua Minghai said that during the time before and after Princess Snow turned thirteen, she had never appeared anywhere. This meant that Divine Phoenix Sect was extremely protective of Princess Snow. But he’d never expected that no one was allowed to even touch her body… The protectiveness Divine Phoenix Sect had for her was simply at an incomprehensible extent.
Then, him intruding into Princess Snow’s territory, talking to her at such a close range, being in contact with her for so many days… If Divine Phoenix Sect were to know of this…
Yun Che immediately realized that he had touched upon Divine Phoenix Sect’s huge… it’s greatest taboo yet, one that was several times more taboo than him possessing the Phoenix bloodline!
…………
…………
Since he had already committed such a huge taboo… Then, committing it a little longer is fine! Besides… his grievances with Divine Phoenix Sect was getting progressively harder to dispel!
Yun Che smiled. Without saying anything, he pushed out with his palm, and the dradon meat slowly floated toward Princess Snow. Princess Snow stretched out a hand to take it while shooting Yun Che a light smile: “Then I’m going to eat it.”
As her sweet voice fell, she gently sniffed it, then slightly opened her lips and bit into it with her pearly teeth. The deliciousness instantly made her eyes glow: “Waah~~ So good… too good! So there’s actually such tasty meat in this world…”
The first swallow made the girl react exaggeratedly. She began to take consecutive bites. Her eyes blurred with intoxication as she became completely absorbed in the deliciousness that she had never tasted before. Even though she ate quite impatiently, her table manners were still pleasing, each and every small bite was graceful. As he watched her not wolfing down the food, Yun Che’s gaze gradually became dumbstruck, even his stomach’s hunger was forgotten. On this girl, no matter where on her body, and no matter what she did, she possessed a dazzling, irresistible charm that no one was able to resist.
More than a large half of the dragon meat had quickly been eaten. At this time, the young girl suddenly thought of something. She looked at the remaining dragon meat, then jogged over to the Snow Phoenix: “Little White, I’ll give you something really yummy to eat, this is the best thing I’ve ever eaten, you know!”
Yun Che: “！#￥%……”
Princess Snow placed the dragon meat near the Snow Phoenix’s beak, yet the Snow Phoenix faced up, expressing its refusal. Yun Che walked over and said with a smile: “The Snow Phoenix Beast was born from an extremely cold place and only eats ice, snow, or rain. It doesn’t like eating meat.”
“Oh, so it’s like that.” Princess Snow took back the dragon meat, tilted her head, and then asked quite earnestly: “Snow Phoenix Beast? This name is even weirder sounding than Little Chan. Little White still sounds the best, right, Little White?”
“Then I’ll eat the rest all by myself!”
The young girl sat , leaning against the Snow Phoenix’s soft body and slowly enjoyed the delicacy in her hand. With each bite, an incomparably beautiful smile blossomed on her snowy face. Seeing her like this, Yun Che was once more dazzled. He couldn’t help but uncontrollably blurt out: “If you like it, I can roast it for you every day.”
The young girl blinked her beautiful eyes, then began to laugh happily. Her brows bent into two crescent moons as her eyelashes softly fluttered like butterflies: “Hehe, you’re so nice. I just knew that someone who’s able to become Little White’s owner must be a really good person.”
“…Your Highness, why do you like Little Chan so much?” Yun Che asked.
Without even bothering to think, Princess Snow smiled sweetly in reply: “Because Little White is so beautiful. The most beautiful profound beast I’ve ever seen. Look, Little White’s entire body of white is the same color as my favorite snow.”
“You like… snow?”
“Mn!” After the word “snow” was brought up, Princess Snow lowered the delicious food in her hands. Lifting up her face that was even more fair than snow, she said somewhat absent-mindedly: “I’ve only heard of ‘snow’ from my royal brothers, but I’ve never seen it before. Snow had also never fell upon Divine Phoenix City before, but when I was thirteen years old, a huge snow storm suddenly fell upon Divine Phoenix City… That was when I finally realized how beautiful snow was. The sky fluttered with white snowflakes, making me feel like I was in another world, and when snowflakes landed on my body, they were like beautiful fairies…”
“That day was the happiest day, most exciting day of my life, it was as though I had a beautiful dream. But very quickly, the snow melted. After that, I’ve always longed for snow, but have never seen it ever again. Royal father said that only the north of Divine Phoenix Empire has winter, where people can see snow. But royal father has told me many times that before I turn twenty, I’m not allowed to leave Divine Phoenix Sect… I really don’t know when I can see snow again.”
The young girl sat in a daze, her longing and thirst were distinctively printed in her eyes and expression. Yun Che didn’t know why she would like snow that much, perhaps, only the purest of snow could stir her pure spirit.
“Your Highness, please close your eyes.” Yun Che stood up, and suddenly said mysteriously.
“Ah? Why do I have to close my eyes?” Princess Snow looked at Yun Che in puzzlement.
Yun Che stretched out a hand, with the hollow of his palm facing upwards: “Your Highness doesn’t need to ask. When you open your eyes, you’ll understand.”
“Mn, okay.” Princess Snow apparently thought it was something fun as she closed her eyes with a smile.
Yun Che raised his head, then activated Frozen Cloud Arts… Even though he still had severe injuries on his person, his profound strength had recovered to about thirty percent, he still had enough energy to use Frozen Cloud Arts to make a little snow. Immediately after, a gust of cold wind rose as the surrounding water elements quickly assembled, fusing with the profound energy Yun Che released, transforming into snow that fluttered in the sky, and slowly fell down.
“Your Highness, you can open your eyes now.” Yun Che withdrew his hand and said softly before staring at her jade face, awaiting her reaction.
Princess Snow opened her eyes as a stretch of snowflakes also softly fluttered down on top of her nose. Then, even more snowflakes descended, brushing past her long hair, cheek, and hands… In that moment, Princess Snow went dumbstruck. Her lips opened and her expression grew misty as she stared blankly at everything, as though she had found herself inside a dream.
“It’s snow… snow!”
Princess Snow happily stood up, both her hands cupped the unceasingly falling snowflakes as she happily jumped about in the snow, as though she was a fairy that had found home. Her happiness even seemed to have infected the atmosphere as the breeze became even more gentle.
“It’s really snow… so cold, so beautiful.”
She happily exclaimed in excitement, each sound she made was like the sweetest music in the world. Immersed within the snowflakes and a thin layer of recently accumulated snow, she faced upwards as happiness blossomed on her smiling face, as if she had unrestrainedly released all her joy within the snow.
“Are you the one who made it snow? How did you do it?” Princess Snow tossed the snow cupped in her hands at her own face. She looked at Yun Che with an emotionally moved and thankfulness. But even more so, there was a kind of faint admiration in her gaze.
“Secret.” Yun Che smiled mysteriously. Seeing that she was this overjoyed, a sense of satisfaction rose in Yun Che’s heart.
“Thank you!” Princess Snow smiled in elation. Even though she was curious, she didn’t really want to know the answer that much because she was already submerged in happiness and contentment. She spread out both arms and lightly spun inside the flying snow. Then, she adorably yelled at Yun Che: “I’ll dance for you, okay?”
Without even waiting for Yun Che to response, or perhaps Yun Che had forgotten to reply, Princess Snow let out a heavenly laughter as she picked up the corner of her skirt. She tossed aside her small exquisite shoes and her flawless ankle and feet immediately appeared in Yun Che’s line of sight. The pair of delicate feet that were pure and translucent, snow white and tender, stepped onto the white snow that was unexpectedly less fair than her delicate skin. Each of her toes were like the world’s purest of pearls and jade, they were dainty, and glistened with the luster of gems.
Snowflakes still continued to float down. A small portion had also fallen onto Yun Che’s body. Inside the world of snowflakes, Princess Snow began to gracefully dance. The lower skirt portion of her beautiful phoenix robe fluttered with her elegant movements. Crystals of jade, one after another, let out an enchanting brilliance. Even the golden colored phoenix on her clothing seemed to be gracefully dancing… But, how could the dance of the phoenix even match Princess Snow’s beauty that made one breathless? Her delicate and tender body was like duckweed rippling on the surface of the water, like the willow branches swaying in the wind, and was so fantastical that it was like a dream… Even the dance of goddesses in the Heaven’s palace, perhaps wouldn’t be any greater than this.
Yun Che watched on dumbfoundedly, his gaze fixated without moving for a long time… Her laughter resounded beside his ears and inside his heart. The picture of her lithely dancing within the snow, every single moment was deeply imprinted inside his memories and soul.
He knew, that in his entire lifetime, he’ll never be able to forget this graceful dancing silhouette.
Chapter 419 - Changes in the Profound Ark
Unwittingly, the snowflakes had practically all floated down. The young girl also stopped dancing as she looked unbearingly at the quietly melting layer of snow beneath her feet. She looked at Yun Che, and said in a pitiful lovely voice: “My dancing, was it good?”
“Good…” Yun Che nodded with a hazy expression. He sounded as though he was sleep talking, his mind was still immersed within the dancing earlier.
Princess Snow had heard this sort of praise too many times in her life, but she still laughed happily: “Then… Make a little bit more snow, okay? I can continue dancing for you. When I watch the snowflakes fall, I can’t help but want to dance with them.”
“All right…” How could Yun Che possibly decline? She was like a celestial being, seeing her for even an instant would be an indescribable pleasure and luxury. It was a beautiful scene an ordinary person would never be able to see in their entire lifetime. He stretched out his hand toward the sky and condensed profound energy…
But as soon as Frozen Cloud Arts activated, a tearing pain immediately came from his chest. Yun Che groaned and quickly used his hand to press against his chest, forcibly swallowing the surging blood back down. However, his complexion was still deathly pale.
“Ah!!” Princess Snow exclaimed in surprise. Without even bothering to put her shoes back on, her delicate ice lotus-like feet left the layer of snow, stepping onto soft grass. She extended both hands, withdrew them once more, and then asked nervously: “Are… Are you all right? It’s all my fault, only focusing on letting myself see snow, and forgetting about your injuries… I’m sorry… I’m so sorry…”
The treasure of Divine Phoenix Empire was currently panickedly apologizing to him, an “ordinary disciple”. Her beautiful eyes trembled slightly, filled with worry and self-blame. A spot in the depths of Yun Che’s heart was touched, he did his best to smile: “Don’t worry, I’m okay. I just accidentally stirred my internal injuries, I’ll be better after a short rest.”
When he finished speaking, Yun Che had already carefully sat down. He closed his eyes, slowly calmed his breathing, and the uncomfortable sensation quickly disappeared.
Only after hearing Yun Che’s words and seeing his complexion gradually regain its color, did Princess Snow’s worry and self-blame quietly scatter. Then, without being completely reassured, she sat in front of him as her eyes stared at him unblinkingly. She also didn’t know why she wanted to have a proper look at this man, perhaps, it was because of some kind of hazy and mysterious feeling that came from him… This was the first time in her entire life that she had taken a meaningfully look at a single person.
When the stirred internal injuries were pacified, Yun Che opened his eyes, directly meeting with Princess Snow’s gaze. Being found out that she was peeping at him, Princess Snow blinked, and laughed sweetly, suddenly blossoming into a smiling expression that stirred Yun Che’s soul. He also laughed, and said regretfully: “Your Highness, this is my fault for being wounded. Not only can I not make it snow for you, I even made you worry… My injuries would be much better tomorrow, at that time, I’ll make it snow a lot for you.”
“Okay!” Princess Snow readily agreed, then slightly tilted her head: “But, can you not call me Your Highness? It feels kind of awkward.”
“Then… What should I call Your Highness?”
“My name is Feng Xue’er, you can call me Xuexue, or you can call me Xue’er. I really like those two names, ‘Your Highness’ doesn’t sound good at all.” Princess Snow said with a laugh.
If a Divine Phoenix Sect member swapped places with him, they would instantly be terrified. But Yun Che naturally did not care as he smiled: “Alright, then from now on, I’ll call you… Xue’er.”
“Mn!” Princess Snow smiled lightly as she nodded, her star-like pupils gazed at his face: “Then can I call you… Big brother Lingyun?”
“Of course you can… but I’ll like it even more if Xue’er calls me Big brother Yun. Because I feel like it’s even more intimate than “Big brother Lingyun.” Yun Che smiled… Even though they were missing one word, “Big brother Lingyun” and Big brother Yun” were two completely different concepts. Because the former… totally benefited that Ling Yun guy!
“Mn!” Princess Snow nodded in elation: “Big brother Yun… Big brother Yun… Big brother Yun… heh!”
Princess Snow called out three times in a row. That extremely sweet voice made all the bones in Yun Che’s body go soft.
————————————————
Divine Phoenix Imperial Palace, Phoenix Main Hall.
“This son and subject greets royal father.” Feng Ximing said deferentially as he stood in front of Feng Hengkong.
With the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament getting ever so closer, it was still only secondary. What was most important, was that the Primordial Profound Ark’s doorway was about to open. Even though no one had discovered the secrets of the Primordial Profound Ark in these several thousand years, there was no doubt that it contained a world-shaking treasure. Therefore, even after every failed attempt, the appearance of the Primordial Profound Ark was still be regarded as an enormous occasion for Divine Phoenix Sect. Everyone within the Divine Phoenix Sect believed that if they discovered the Primordial Profound Ark’s secret, and obtained its treasure, Divine Phoenix Sect’s strength would be on an equal footing with the Four Great Sacred Grounds in the true meaning… even surpassing them was a possibility.
When Feng Ximing arrived, he didn’t even lift his head, as he faintly said: “What is it.”
Feng Ximing’s head was slightly bent, his posture humble: “Reporting to royal father, we’ve just recently received news from Spirit Earth Hall, a change has occurred on the profound seal on the ark door of the Primordial Profound Ark this morning. According to our past written accounts, this kind of change signifies that the ark door will open twelve days from now, a full four days earlier than we expected.” Preparing for the Primordial Profound Ark was the reason why Feng Hengkong had very rarely appeared in public during this time frame.
Feng Hengkong raised his head, his face heavy: “Four days earlier?”
Feng Ximing nodded: “Yes. We have originally set the day after the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament as the profound ark’s opening, but now, the profound ark’s door is four days ahead of schedule, conflicting with the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. And even if we shift the ranking tournament to an earlier date now, we still won’t have enough time. Thus, in regards to how we’ll handle this matter, I ask royal father for judgment.”
Feng Hengkong stood up as his brows slowly pinched. The Primordial Profound Ark’s doorway would only open for twenty four hours, every minute and second was incomparably precious, and it definitely could not be wasted. However, when he sent the invitation letters to the six nations previously, he explicitly indicated that the top three of the ranking tournament would be entitled to board the Primordial Profound Ark. If the competition was unfinished, how could the top three even board the Primordial Profound Ark when they didn’t even exist? As for shifting the date of the ranking tournament to an earlier time, that was even more inappropriate.
Feng Hengkong muttered, his voice low and dignified: “The ranking tournament’s original schedule is for a time frame of five days. The Primordial Profound Ark’s matter cannot be delayed, and the competition also cannot be shifted ahead of time. Since the opening of the Primordial Profound Ark’s has been shifted four days ahead of time, then we can only compress the ranking tournament to last one day!”
“One day? This…” Feng Ximing’s face revealed shock. This was unprecedented in all of the history of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. Making the battle between seven nations last only one day, was indeed too tight, or perhaps it should be said that it was fundamentally impossible to accomplish.
“This is the only way. As to how to arrange that, the decision is yours.” Feng Hengkong’s gaze concentrated: “There must be no mishap in the exploration of the Primordial Profound Ark, and the ranking tournament matter is related to our Divine Phoenix Sect’s prestige, it also must not have any errors. Deciding how to set that up will depend on your ability, this can also be considered a test for you. Any questions?”
Even though Feng Ximing was nervous, he still obviously did not have the courage to refuse as he promptly lowered his head: “Yes, this son will properly handle this according to royal father’s wishes and will not disappoint royal father.”
“Mn.” Feng Hengkong nodded: “Since that’s the case, if you have no other matters, you may withdraw. Remember to inform every Great Elder and Pavilion Master about this, so they can make preparations earlier.”
“Yes… This son also has another matter to speak about, royal father. This matter is not big nor small, but this son and subject still thinks that it’s best if he tells royal father.”
“Speak.”
Feng Ximing said cautiously: “A few days ago, huge sounds of activity suddenly came from Phoenix Mountain Range. When we came over, we discovered Thirteenth Brother’s personal bodyguard Feng Chihuo there, and he died extremely miserably. The area around him had also been widely destroyed, evident of him going through a desperate battle.”
With regards to Feng Chihuo’s matter, Feng Hengkong was naturally aware of it, but he clearly didn’t put it to heart as he said indifferently: “Only our sect members can enter Phoenix Mountain Range. Since he died there, then he had been killed by someone in our sect. We’ll instantly know once we investigate it.”
“Royal father speaks thusly. After some investigation, Feng Chihuo was pursuing someone who charged out of the southern gate in the early morning of that day. Going by what the city guards have stated, the sky had not brightened yet, so they did not get a good look at the person’s face. They only vaguely distinguished that the person had not reached thirty yet, and…”
“No need to say anymore!” Feng Hengkong impatiently swung a hand: “We don’t have the time to pay attention to such small matters. Since Feng Chihuo was murdered by someone within the sect, then it means that he’s unskilled. Are you saying that we have to personally investigate who murdered that good-for-nothing trash?”
“Royal father, quell your anger… Feng Chihuo’s tragic death is but a small matter, but… but…” Feng Ximing sucked in a breath, as a distinct nervousness appeared on his face: “The place where Feng Chihuo died is not even five kilometers away from Absolute Phoenix Cliff, and the place just to the side of Absolute Phoenix Cliff is Phoenix Perching Valley, where Xue’er is. Royal father has ordered guards to defend twenty five kilometers east, west, and north of Phoenix Perching Valley, yet no one is guarding the south side. This son and subject is worried that Xue’er might be disturbed, and perhaps that person might dare to intrude Phoenix Perching Valley…”
Before he had even finished talking, his entire body suddenly felt a chill, and he didn’t continue his sentence. Feng Hengkong’s eyes narrowed as his glowering eyes released a thick, ice-cold raidance.
“So… are you saying that you want to go over to Phoenix Perching Valley to see if Xue’er is safe?”
“No, this son absolutely did not have that intention, it’s just… it’s just that this son is afraid someone might disturb Xue’er.” Feng Ximing said in terror. He had long anticipated that Feng Hengkong would react this way, but he still couldn’t help but say it… Feng Hengkong was currently just too busy at this time, so perhaps he really might allow him to go over there to have a look… Even if it was a one in a millionth chance, letting him have a look at Xue’er was enough. However, it was evident that this was still an extravagant hope. Feng Xue’er was Feng Hengkong’s biggest landmine… a landmine that absolutely could not be touched.
“Hmph! Absolute Phoenix Cliff is not the only thing south of Phoenix Perching Valley, there’s also the Great Phoenix Formation. Aside from my sect members, no one is able to enter. In our Divine Phoenix Sect, there’s still no one with enough guts to dare charge in Phoenix Perching Valley!! Xue’er can also immediately sound transmit to us as well. If she really has been disturbed, she would certainly notify us immediately. No need for you to worry… Scram!”
“Royal father, calm your anger, this… this son was worrying too much. This son and subject shall take his leave.”
Feng Ximing withdrew in a panic… Once he exited Phoenix Main Hall, he turned around with firmly clenched teeth as a cold, resentful light flashed through his eyes.
Chapter 420 - Promise
A scene of fluttering snow had shrunk down the distance between Yun Che and Feng Xue’er by an extremely great extent. Feng Xue’er’s mood had also become extraordinarily cheerful; because to her, the fluttering snow as far as one’s eye could see, had always been the most beautiful dream she had yearned for.
“Big Brother Yun, the snow you made, is a type of water attribute profound art, right?” Feng Xue’er cupped her charming cheeks with her hands, looking at him with a glimmering gaze. This pure and untainted sprite, all of her feelings were displayed on her snow-like face without any hesitation. At the same time she spoke these words, she also expressed her curiosity and yearning for this kind of profound art.
“Mhm, it’s called ‘Frozen Cloud Arts’. To be precise, it’s a type of ice attribute profound art.” Yun Che answered without concealment, because he believed that Feng Xue’er definitely had never heard of this profound art’s name before. But he still casually added on: “Xue’er, have you ever heard of this profound art?”
“No.” Feng Xue’er lightly shook her small head, and asked curiously: “But, why would you know ice attribute profound arts? Our Phoenix bloodline can burn the most ferocious phoenix flames, but wouldn’t the power of fire attribute and ice attribute profound art conflict with each other? I had never heard of anyone in the sect that actually practiced water attribute profound arts. Royal father seemed to have said that there isn’t even anyone in the entire Divine Phoenix City.”
Water and fire suppressed one another, and could not have common grounds. Even if one cultivates them, when one type of profound energy is used, the other type must be suppressed to the utmost, otherwise, the two types of profound energy would cancel out by themselves, or even become chaotic. This was the most fundamental common sense of the profound way. Thus, practicing profound arts opposite of one’s own attribute, other than wasting energy and fruitlessly increasing the risk that one might stir up just by mere carelessness, it could be said to be completely useless. Divine Phoenix Empire’s fire elements were extraordinarily lively, and was an extremely fitting place to practice fire attribute profound arts. The profound practitioners there all basically practiced fire attribute profound arts as well. Other than occasional foreigners, profound practitioners who practice water profound arts simply couldn’t be found at all. Even foreigners, because of the fire element’s activeness, their bodies and profound veins would feel discomfort of various degrees if water attribute profound arts were the only thing they practiced.
So, Feng Xue’er naturally had such a question.
Yun Che said calmly: “Xue’er, did you know that our Divine Phoenix Sect’s force isn’t merely limited to Divine Phoenix Empire? There are many clansmen who are sent to other nations since childhood, then conceal their phoenix bloodline and join the relatively powerful and prestigious local sect or force, thereby obtaining information and intel, making up our sect’s information network.”
Feng Xue’er’s charming lips slightly opened, then, she lightly nodded: “Mn, this I know. Father has told me about this before… Big Brother Yun, are you someone who was sent to the outside since childhood?”
Feng Xue’er naturally wouldn’t doubt Yun Che’s words. Because constructing information networks, was one of the things that every single powerful sect had to do, and information networks, were even one of the lifelines of a sect. Heavenly Sword Villa, Xiao Sect, and even Blue Wind Profound Palace all had disciples planted into other great sects, not to mention the colossal Divine Phoenix Sect.
“Yes, the place I was sent to, is called Blue Wind Nation, and I’ve only returned to the sect this year.” Yun Che nodded. He answered with extreme calmness without any undulation; it was almost impossible for even a person who was extremely experienced to notice the traces of a lie within his gaze and expression. But when these words left his mouth, his heart and soul was violently clutched and pulled.
In these years of two lifetimes, in order to achieve a certain purpose, or for survival, he had spoken concealing and misguiding words countless times, and had been long trained to the point that his heart wouldn’t change it’s rhythm and the expression on his face wouldn’t alter in the slightest. But this time, the person he was facing was a girl who was more pure than even the snow itself, and had moreover saved his life… Such a lie, was only for concealing and achieving his purpose, and absolutely didn’t have any intention to harm her; yet the sense of guilt and sin in his heart was record-breakingly intense.
“Blue Wind Nation…” Feng Xue’er knew this country, and also knew that it was the smallest nation of the continent. Her charming eyes blinked once, as she continued asking: “Then is Big Brother Yun’s Frozen Cloud Arts, learnt from there? Since there are ice attribute profound arts, then would there be a lot of snow?”
“Mhm.” Yun che nodded: “That is a place called the Snow Region of Extreme Ice. The entire five hundred kilometers over there, are all white snow.”
“Five hundred kilometers… White snow?” Feng Xue’er’s cherry lips opened up in surprise. She couldn’t imagine just what kind of marvelous scenery that would be.
“An entire five hundred kilometers, all covered by snow, moreover, very very thick snow. Even if one shatters a dozen feet of the snow layer, what’s beneath is still snow.” Yun Che said while smiling. He believed that the Snow Region of Extreme Ice must be a heaven-like place for Feng Xue’er who likes snow. He narrated earnestly: “Because that place is very cold, the ice and snow over there wouldn’t even melt in tens of milleniums… Look, all these surrounding mountains are all soil and stone, but at the Snow Region of Extreme Ice, even the ridges and peaks are covered by layers of snow and ice. The sky at where we are is blue, but over there, even the sky is projected to a pure white by the reflections of the endless snow. In that entire world, there is only a stretch of white without bounds. The sky and earth can’t be distinguished, it’s so pure and quiet that one could hear the sound of their own heartbeat.”
“Wah…” Fen Xue’er’s hands had unwittingly covered her lips, her gaze as misty as fog: “Is there… really such a place… Snow Region of Extreme Ice… Snow Region of Extreme Ice…”
“Not only that, even though it’s all snow, there are also many flower and plants. And the flowers there, are all ice flowers similar to crystals, and even the grass and trees are sparkling with the glimmer of ice. There are also very beautiful ice corals, and natural ice sculptures of various shapes. These, are all unable to be seen at other places. Because once these things leave the Snow Region of Extreme Ice, they would all very quickly melt. Also…” Yun Che pointed toward the Snow Phoenix: “Little Chan was also nurtured up at the Snow Region of Extreme Ice, so its feather is just like the white snow. In the entire Profound Sky Continent, Snow Phoenix Beasts only exist there. To have left that place with me, Little Chan has worked hard.”
Snow Phoenix Beast uttered a light cry.
Feng Xue’er’s entire person became stupefied there. She felt as if she had fallen into an illusory world that hadn’t ever appeared even in her dreams. The beauty of that place, surpassed the most beautiful heaven she had fantasized about… Even with all of her knowledge, she couldn’t draw how just how beautiful of a picture scroll that would be… Endless spanning snow, snow-white mountains, snow-white skies, sparkling and translucent trees and flowers, as flocks of birds as pretty as Little White fluttered and danced in the sky…
“Snow Region of Extreme Ice… Snow Region of Extreme Ice…” She muttered this name as if deliriously raving, feeling as though her heart and spirit had already melted.
“Does Xue’er want to go there?” Yun Che asked a question that he could completely be sure of the answer just by the look of her expression.
“Mhm!” Feng Xue’er very strongly nodded, her white and glossy cheeks were adorned with a bit of excited blush: “So in this world, there’s actually such a beautiful place. I really want to go, if I can arrived at that kind of world, and live over there… Wah~~ How blissful would that be.”
“But…” The light in Feng Xue’er’s eyes grew somewhat dim again: “Royal father has said that before I turn twenty, I can’t leave Divine Phoenix City. Royal father is always so busy too, and also haven’t left Divine Phoenix Sect in many many years. Even after I’m twenty, Royal father probably wouldn’t have the time to take me there…”
“Then I’ll take you there.” Yun Che didn’t even think, and uncontrollably blurted out.
“Ah…” Feng Xue’er let out a light cry, and at the same time revealed a deep surprise that made Yun Che feel unexpected: “Really? You’re really willing to take me there?”
Toward his words, she believed them so firmly without any doubts, and was so unguarded against him; instead, due to the snow he made, a scene he described, hints and threads of a young girl’s reverence was arisen toward him. A surge of complication emerged in Yun Che’s heart, yet there was also the feeling of warmth. He nodded with strength: “Of course I’m willing. If you are still willing to recognize this “Big Brother Yun” when you are able to leave the Divine Phoenix City, as long as you want to, I’ll definitely bring you to the Snow Region of Extreme Ice. I came to Divine Phoenix Empire from over there, and I very clearly know how to return. If we set off from the Divine Phoenix City, we’d arrive in half a month if we hurry.
“Hooray!” The girl uttered in high spirits. All of the slight disappointments from before vanished like smoke in thin air. Looking at Yun Che, she joyfully smiled like a most exquisite and beautiful doll: “Big Brother Yun, thank you, you are so nice… To be able to meet you, I am really very happy.”
“To be able to view snow with such a beautiful girl like Xue’er, I am the one that’s the luckiest.” Yun Che said heartfeltly. However, he didn’t know whether or not there would be a day that this promise could be realized… If, she was still willing at that time, then no matter the hinderance, he’d still use all his power to realize it… Perhaps it was to make up for the guilt in his heart, or perhaps, he wished to stand by her, shoulder to shoulder, in the depth of his heart.
“Heh, then it’s a deal. After I’m twenty, Big Brother Yun will take me to Snow Region of Extreme Ice to see the endless fluttering snow… You definitely can’t lie and take your word back, okay.” Feng Xue’er said with a happy smile.
“Mn!” Yun Che nodded, and extended his pinky toward Feng Xue’er: “Let’s pinky swear.”
“Ah?” Feng Xue’er looked at the pinky Yun Che reached out, then looked at her own finger, as a puzzling expression revealed on her face: “Pinky swear… what does that mean?”
Yun Che lightly shook his finger, and said: “It lets us buckle our pinky together in order to prove that the words we speak will definitely be kept. No matter how many years pass, they will never change.”
“Uu…” Feng Xue’er timidly extended her finger as lustrous as the fine jade, and said in a low voice: “As long as Big Brother Yun doesn’t forget, I’ll definitely keep my promise, but… but…”
But, her body, even if it was the pinky, had never made contact with men before. Because in Feng Hengkong’s eyes, every single inch of her skin was the most precious treasure of the Divine Phoenix Sect. Anyone’s touch, would all be an unforgivable tarnish. Even he, the father, couldn’t touch either. In fact, if he were to choose between Divine Phoenix Sect and Feng Xue’er, he would unhesitatingly choose Feng Xue’er.
And the reason within this, was not merely that type of a father’s radical love and protection toward his sole daughter; the even more important reason was only known by a few within the Divine Phoenix Empire… Other than Divine Phoenix Empire, even the Four Great Sacred Grounds had gotten information from who knew where, and also noticed Feng Xue’er a long time ago. This also made Feng Hengkong’s protection toward Feng Xue’er prudent to the point that made one unable to comprehend.
If he was to know that a man would actually sit so close to Feng Xue’er, and even engage in sweet talk… and even wanted to pinky swear with her, let alone that this person being the “bastard” he wanted to get rid of from the start, even if it was his own son, he’d unhesitatingly smash him into mincemeat with a palm under a flight of rage.
“Oh, I understand now.” Yun Che seemed to only have realized just now: “Your royal father doesn’t allow anyone to touch you, and you are afraid of your royal father’s scolding, right?”
“Mn…” Feng Xue’er lightly nodded: “I can’t disobey royal father’s words. I’m more afraid… that after royal father knows, he’ll be angry at you. Just last year, Twelfth Brother accidentally touched my shoulder, and was discovered by royal father. Royal father got so angry, and directly broke Twelfth Brother’s wrist, and even said that he’ll cripple him… I begged for mercy for Twelfth Brother, royal father usually complies with me a lot, but he really was very angry, and still confined Twelfth Brother for an entire half a year… It’s my fault that Twelfth Brother is harmed. I don’t want Big Brother Yun to be harmed because of me, too.”
Chapter 421 - Let Me Teach Big Brother Yun, Alright?
Just one touch on the shoulder… and even with phoenix robe in between… and it was even his son of flesh and blood… To actually break his wrist without any mercy, and confine him for half a year…
This Phoenix Emperor’s cherishment toward his daughter simply had reached an extent that shocked heaven and earth! In comparison, the things he did these few days were enough for him to be executed by a thousand cuts, eight hundred times over!
And growing up in this kind of extreme protection, not only Feng Xue’er’s heart, even her body was also pure to the extreme. And the purer the object, the easier it was to evoke the desire to taint and possess within the depth of men’s heart —— especially this kind of person like Yun Che, who never constrains himself.
Yun Che didn’t retract his pinky, and instead said smiling as he looked at her star-like eyes: “Xue’er, your royal father really cherishes you. Him not wanting for others to touch you, is because he’s worried that you will be harmed by others.”
“Mn, I know, royal father is the person who cares about me the most in this world.” Feng Xue’er said with a faint smile.
“However, if it’s someone you like and is intimate with, there naturally wouldn’t be any problems with physical contact, and can even make one another more intimate and fond of each other. Does Xue’er think that I am someone who would harm Xue’er, or someone who Xue’er is fond of?” Yun Che said with a pure and serious face.
Feng Xue’er unhesitatingly answered: “Big Brother Yun is so nice, of course I like Big Brother Yun. Being together with Big Brother Yun makes me really happy, Big Brother Yun has even realized the dream I had for many years.”
“Mhm.” Yun Che smiled, and extended his pinky before Feng Xue’er: “Then let us pinky swear.”
“Ah… but… but…” Feng Xue’er was still hesitating and timid.
“Relax, there’s only the two of us here, your royal father wouldn’t see, wouldn’t know, which means he wouldn’t get angry. Also, Xue’er is already sixteen this year. Sixteen, is an age where Xue’er has already grown up. Your royal father can’t protect you for a lifetime, so you need to start learning to be mature and independent. First of all, you need to make decisions while following the depths of your heart, using your own feelings and judgement, and not forever complying with words of other people.”
With the protection Feng Xue’er had received, naturally no one would have ever said these kind of words to her. Coming from Yun Che’s mouth, the impact brought about by these words to Feng Xue’er’s heart, that didn’t have a single speck of dust, could be well imagined. She had already gotten used to the way of life that had persisted for sixteen years. However, wanting to break through the world of self and restrainment from the past till present, was more so an innate instinct hidden within the depth of the human consciousness. Words that had never been heard before, made Feng Xue’er’s heart feel as if it had made contact with a whole different world, a world she had never experienced before. She listened to her heartbeat, and repeated Yun Che’s words once and once again in her mind… Follow her heart, make the decision she wanted to make…
Finally, with great effort, Feng Xue’er made a resolution that could be said as the greatest one ever from the time she was born. She imitated Yun Che’s actions, slowly extended her slender and fair pinky, and slowly touched toward Yun Che’s pinky… Her movements were very slow, nervous, at a loss, and helpless… along with a kind of faint anticipation…
Finally, her pinky made contact with Yun Che’s pinky on her own accord. Instantly, as if she had experienced an electric shock, she retracted her little hand back at once. But Yun Che did not give her such a chance, his finger quickly went forward, and fast yet gently buckled onto her pinky… Instantly, a tactile sensation soft and smooth to the point of unfathomable came, as though he had touched the most flawless and pure warm jade in the world.
“Ah…” Feng Xue’er let out a light cry, her entire body became stiff for a bit. Her pinky subconsciously wished to struggle free, yet was tightly buckled down by Yun Che. Amidst nervousness, her pinky tightly twined with Yun Che’s finger, her entire body more so didn’t move at all, as she didn’t even dare to open her eyes.
“Pinky swear, the words we spoke before will never be disavowed. After Xue’er is twenty, we’ll go together to Blue Wind Nation’s Snow Region of Extreme Ice to see the endless falling snow.” Yun Che lifted his wrist, pulled Feng Xue’er’s small hand, and said in dead earnest. Only, after his voice fell, he still didn’t loosen his finger. His voice, also drove away Feng Xue’er’s nervousness and helplessness to a great extent, and made her expression finally ease up somewhat.
Within the Sky Poison Pearl, Jasmine looked at Yun Che buckling Feng Xue’er’s pinky with cold eyes, her exquisite yet unnatural little face was full of scorn: “Hmph, he’s starting again. No matter where this damned fool goes, anytime he meets a somewhat pretty woman, he’ll immediately reveal his nature of a pervert and beast, and will never change!!”
“Xue’er, how do you feel right now? Do you feel sad, or find it difficult to accept it?” Seeing that even though Feng Xue’er became calm again, her eyes were still closed and unwilling to open, Yun Che asked while moving a little closer.
“Oh… it’s a very weird feeling.” Feng Xue’er’s eyelashes faintly trembled, as she answered softly.
“Weird?”
“It’s a kind of… indescribable feeling, but it’s not loathsome, nor is it sad… Uu… I never had felt this kind of weird feeling… Also my heart is suddenly beating so fast… Big Brother Yun, can you tell me what kind of feeling this is?”
“I can’t tell you this, rather that it need Xue’er herself to feel and understand.” Yun Che said with a faint smile. His expression at the moment, was exactly like a big bad wolf who was sneaking up on a little white rabbit. After a bit of hesitation, he suddenly grasped over her entire hand… Feng Xue’er’s hand was very small, and was completely grasped within his hands in one go, just like that.
“Ah…” Feng Xue’er uttered a faint cry, yet the reaction this time, wasn’t as acute as the time before. Even the struggling only happened in that one subconscious instant at the start.
“Then, how about this, what kind of feeling does Xue’er have?” Xue Che gently held Feng Xue’er’s tiny hand… There was a kind of softness and tenderness he couldn’t describe; just holding her hand in silence like that, he felt his entire body’s nervous system uncontrollably becoming lax, not willing to let go no matter what.
“Heartbeat… became faster…” Feng Xue’er lightly muttered: “So making contact with Big Brother Yun would actually be such a weird feeling… Big Brother Yun, can we stay like this a little longer… I really want to know what kind of feeling this is.”
This kind of request, how could Yun Che not agree; how he wished he could hold her hand forever.
With her eyes closed, Feng Xue’er sensed the feeling earnestly. After a while, she softly uttered: “I still don’t understand… I seemed to… have felt Big Brother Yun’s heart beat. Wah! Big Brother Yun’s Phoenix bloodline is so pure, even purer than that of my royal brothers… Eh?”
Feng Xue’er opened her eyes, and looked at Yun Che puzzled: “So weird, why hasn’t Big Brother Yun cultivated the 《World Ode of the Phoenix》 yet?”
Even though Yun Che possessed the 《World Ode of the Phoenix》’s fifth and sixth stage profound skills, these were only the profound skills carried on by these two stages. A profound skill’s activation required a profound art with corresponding power, while Yun Che jumped over this rule with the power of the Evil God’s seed and his own comprehensive ability, forcefully activating the Empyrean Dance of the Phoenix and Star Scorching Demon Lotus with the most basic of phoenix flames. But in terms of power, they naturally were much inferior to activating them with the genuine Phoenix profound art.
Therefore, just from the aspect of the World Ode of the Phoenix’s profound art, it could indeed be said that Yun Che hadn’t practiced it in the slightest. A person who cultivated World Ode of the Phoenix could tell just by casually probing his profound energy attribute.
Yun Che curbed his expression, and said: “Because in these earlier years, I had always been at Blue Wind Nation. For hiding my identity, not only does the Phoenix bloodline need to be concealed, I more so can’t cultivate the World Ode of the Phoenix. This year, I had just returned to the sect. Nineteenth Elder is busy every single day, and didn’t have the free time to teach me. And since I’ve been out for many years, there aren’t any fellow clansmen I’m very familiar with either, so naturally no one would be willing to teach me the World Ode of the Phoenix.”
“So that’s the case~, no wonder…” Feng Xue’er thought for a bit, then a glint suddenly flashed in her eyes, as her expression became excited: “Then does Big Brother Yun want to learn the World Ode of the Phoenix?”
“Of course I do.” Yun Che unhesitatingly nodded: “But…”
“Since you want to, then let me teach Big Brother Yun, alright?” Feng Xue’er said with a cheerily smiling expression, as if this was something that would make her very happy.
“You… teach me?” Yun Che’s heart and mind violently shook a bit.
When Feng Xue’er had mentioned “World Ode of the Phoenix”, the thought of making Feng Xue’er teach him World Ode of the Phoenix had flashed through his mind before, but was immediately extinguished by him. Because he had already deceived Feng Xue’er in regards to his identity, and he didn’t have the heart to scheme against her once more… even if the World Ode of the Phoenix was extremely important to him.
But he didn’t expect that Feng Xue’er would actually voluntarily propose to teach him World Ode of the Phoenix.
Yun Che’s mood instantly became incomparably complicated.
Seeing that Yun Che didn’t answer right away, his expression becoming hesitating and complicated, Feng Xue’er became somewhat anxious instead. She swayed Yun Che’s hands, and said as if she was acting spoiled: “Big Brother Yun, just agree to let me teach you, okay? Big Brother Yun lets me eat so many delicious things, and for beautiful snow, you’ve even agreed to take me to Snow Region of Extreme Ice… I haven’t been so happy in such a long time. I also really want to do something for Big Brother Yun. Even though I’ve never taught anyone before, I can definitely teach very very well… Big Brother Yun, just comply with me okay, okay?”
Yun Che looked at her, and said with a smile that was yet not a smile: “Xue’er, is it that you want me to stay here for a longer period of time, so you can play with Little Chan every single day?”
With a little than half of her intentions being easily exposed, Feng Xue’er began to smile shyly: “Not only Little White, I also really like Big Brother Yun right now, and want Big Brother Yun to accompany me for a while longer… Before, I’ve always been alone here, doing the same thing every day, it really is boring. But with Big Brother Yun and Little White here, I feel like I’m so happy that I’m about to go crazy. Just let me teach you World Ode of the Phoenix, Big Brother Yun can leave after he learns it, okay?
From Feng Xue’er’s perspective, teaching World Ode of the Phoenix to a Divine Phoenix Sect’s fellow clansman really wasn’t much, because it was a profound art that every single phoenix disciple knew how to use, and could be cultivated if one possessed the Phoenix bloodline. Ones who possessed the Phoenix bloodline, yet didn’t cultivate World Ode of the Phoenix was instead abnormal.
Seeing how Feng Xue’er was at the moment, if he were to refuse, she would instead feel at a loss. He originally didn’t have the intention to ‘steal’ World Ode of the Phoenix from Feng Xue’er, but…
“Okay.” Yun Che chose to gladly agree, and said half jokingly while half exclaiming to himself: “Letting Xue’er… Princess Snow to personally teach me World Ode of the Phoenix, it seems as though I’m dreaming.”
“Hehe!” Feng Xue’er cheerfully laughed: “This is the first thing I’m doing for Big Brother Yun, I’ll definitely take it very seriously. Then… how about we start right now?”
“…Okay.”
“Big Brother Yun is wounded right now, and just by chance can quietly comprehend the profound formula when recuperating. Then, I’ll teach Big Brother Yun the fundamental formula right now. Big Brother Yun needs to attentively comprehend it, okay?”
Amidst the soft voice, Feng Xue’er lifted her finger, and pointed at the center between Yun Che’s brows without touching him. A stroke of firelight faintly flickered… Instantly, World Ode of the Phoenix’s fundamental formula distinctively emerged within Yun Che’s sea of consciousness.
Chapter 422 - Complete Profound Formula
World Ode of the Phoenix’s fundamental formula flowed into Yun Che mind. What throbbed first was not Yun Che’s mind, but the Evil God’s fire seed. A flame also starting burning within Yun Che’s mind, gradually imprinting the drifting profound formula firmly into his soul.
The requisites to learning the World Ode of the Phoenix, required having the Phoenix bloodline. Even when possessing the Phoenix bloodline, it would still take a very long time to comprehend the fundamental formula of the World Ode of the Phoenix. This was because the World Ode of the Phoenix was essentially a profound art that belonged at the plane of gods, the flame laws it contained were far above that of ordinary profound flames. Even the weakest first to six stages required an immense difficulty for the user to perfectly comprehend, and was absolutely not something ordinary profound arts could compare to.
But towards Yun Che, this wasn’t at all a concern. That was because the existence of the Evil God’s fire seed allowed him to easily understand and comprehend laws of fire of any shape and form. With the Evil God’s fire seed, Yun Che’s current body was like an unpolished jade that could be sculpted at will. Even if it was this powerful World Ode of the Phoenix, the process of comprehension would be as simple as directly carving it into his body.
After reading the fundamental formula of the World Ode of the Phoenix once in his heart, Yun Che had already understood it clearly. Those profound formulas turmoiled in his soul, then suddenly combined together, creating a vast and boundless world… That was a dark sky of stars with countless heavenly bodies within, and in the next moment, scorching flames suddenly burned up, and entirely engulfed this colossal cosmos. In the sea of fire that could overturn the world, a loud and resonant phoenix cry suddenly sounded, as a golden colored phoenix spreaded out its wings, bathing in flames, born from the sea of fire..
A surge of scorching yet vast aura filled Yun Che’s mind to the brim, and also caused him to feel as if he had opened a gate to another world all of a sudden, as his body was also placed within a whole new world…
……………………
As the profound formula entered Yun Che’s body, he closed his eyes and became motionless. Princess Snow quietly sat in front of him, her beautiful eyes continuously watched Yun Che, in order to prevent unusual conditions such as soul damage and profound energy going into chaos during his comprehension mode. But as an hour passed, Yun Che was not only completely calm during this period, even his breathing had completely stabilized, and was steady to the point that it seemed as if he had fallen asleep.
Princess Snow showed a sign of relief, she once again looked at Yun Che for a while, and muttered to herself in a low voice: “It seems he has started to comprehend. There should be no problems if this was the case, but it should take a long time…”
“Little White, let’s go play!”
Feng Xue’er stood up, and just as she was about to go towards Little White’s side, a layer of mist-like flames suddenly flared up on Yun Che’s body.
Feng Xue’er stopped in her tracks and looked at Yun Che with a surprised expression. The spontaneously ignited misty layer of flames adhered onto Yun Che’s body, slowly flowed and shifted on the surface of his body, and gradually burned higher and higher. Right after, these flames again extinguished and an illusionary Phoenix’s image emerged behind Yun Che’s back. At the same time, the phoenix mark on Yun Che forehead appeared by itself, and released a dazzling golden light.
“Ah….”
Feng Xue’er uttered an astonished cry as she stared blankly at the phoenix mark on Yun Che forehead. That was a phoenix mark that anyone who carried the bloodline of the Phoenix would have. When igniting Phoenix flames, unless one deliberately conceals it, the phoenix mark will emerge by itself. Princess Snow still had her stupefied look, as she stared blankly at the golden phoenix mark on Yun Che’s forehead. The expression in her eyes was in unrest, as the emotions contained within her gaze suddenly became incomparably chaotic…
The Phoenix’s image lasted for a long time, before it finally slowly vanished, and the golden imprint on Yun Che’s forehead also faded along with it. Yun Che also opened his eyes at this time, and at the first glance, he saw Feng Xue’ers eyes that were filled with astonishment.
“Big Brother Yun, you actually… have already completely comprehended the fundamental formula, and thoroughly mastered the bloodline and World Ode of the Phoenix’s profound art?” Feng Xue’er stared her eyes wide, and said with a voice that carried a heavy tone of disbelief.
“That’s right.” Yun Che nodded: “Isn’t this very easy… Right, Xue’er, how long did it take me in total?”
“It only took… an hour.”
“An hour… is this considered very short?”
“Short to the point of unfathomable!” Feng Xue’er’s emotions turmoiled: “The fundamental formula is the foundation of World Ode of the Phoenix’s cultivation, only after thoroughly comprehending it, would one be able to harmonize their bloodline and profound art; it’s also the most most important, and the most most difficult step. Even under the help and guidance of the senior generation, and even if one’s comprehension ability is very great, it’ll still need to at least take over a year, and some would need several years… But Big Brother Yun, you only used… an hour!”
“Uh…” With the Evil God’s fire seed, no matter how difficult the fire attribute profound art, it was all just like the lift of a hand for him. Only after hearing Xue’er saying it like this, did he suddenly realize that mastering the fundamental formula just like that, was indeed a somewhat exaggerated speed. Just as he was pondering how he should explain, he then saw Feng Xue’er’s charming face already blooming with utmost reverence: “Wah! Big Brother Yun, you’re too amazing. You’re the most most most… most terrific genius that Xue’er has ever seen! Back then royal father had praised me for comprehending the fastest, but compared to Big Brother Yun, I’m way way inferior.”
“Um…” Yun Che somewhat embarrassedly pressed his forehead: “How could I be as amazing as Xue’er said? It’s clearly Xue’er who has taught me well, which is why I could comprehend it so fast.”
“Heh! Big Brother Yun only knows how to coax me. I only had given the profound formula to Big Brother Yun, and didn’t give any other help and guidance, and more so didn’t use profound energy to as a guide. As if it’s got anything to do with me at all, it’s Big Brother Yun himself who’s amazing.” Feng Xue’er said with a broad smile.
“No no, of course that isn’t the case.” Yun Che said with a serious face: “Xue’er is good looking, of noble status, with a kind nature. To be able to be taught the World Ode of the Phoenix personally by Xue’er, would be a blissful thing for anyone. Like this, any kind of miracle have a chance of happening. If it was a harsh old granny who taught me, I probably wouldn’t have comprehended it within ten years.”
“Hehe…” Even though she knew that Yun Che was coaxing her, she still laughed very cheerfully: “I had originally wanted to teach Big Brother Yun bit by bit, but since Big Brother Yun is so amazing… then I’ll just teach all of World Ode of the Phoenix’s profound arts to Big Brother Yun, maybe Big Brother Yun can similarly comprehend them very fast.”
As she spoke, Feng Xue’er extended her jade hands. A speck of dazzling red light congealed up between her fingers, then, she carefully touched it onto the center of Yun Che’s brows… Instantly, the complete profound formulas of the first to the fourth stage, all slowly and clearly entered Yun Che’s sea of consciousness.
The World Ode of the Phoenix, from the fundamental formula to the first four stages that belonged to Divine Phoenix Sect, was acquired just like this by Yun Che in such a complete and intact fashion.
Yun Che had already received the Phoenix’s blood for nearly three years. Even though he forcefully learned two phoenix profound skills, he never was able to cultivate the World Ode of the Phoenix. The World Ode of the Phoenix could be said as something he had always yearned for even in his dreams, and he knew how difficult and dangerous it would be to obtain this World Ode of the Phoenix from Divine Phoenix Sect. He didn’t expect that he would obtain Divine Phoenix Sect’s complete World Ode of the Phoenix precisely today.
If he went through layers upon layers of danger, schemes, gambles, or even blood and obtained the World Ode of the Phoenix, he would have no qualms about it, and let out three hearty laughters.
But at this moment, obtaining it without spending any effort at all, instead made him to be somewhat at a loss.
Because what Feng Xue’er had given him wasn’t merely World Ode of the Phoenix, but also a heart that completely trusted and was intimate with him, as well as feelings without the slightest speck of dust and impurity.
Yet the premise of everything, was his deceit toward her… Even if it was a deceit where he had no other choice.
As the first four stages of profound formula flooded in, the fifth and sixth stage profound formula that had long ago been engraved within Yun Che’s mind and soul was awakened at the same time. For a moment, the six stages of profound formulas combined and joined together by themselves, converging into the World Ode of the Phoenix’s complete first to sixth stages. Even though Yun Che’s mind was slightly in chaos, the Phoenix profound energy had already automatically channeled and fused following the profound formulas that entered Yun Che’s mind… So, he closed his eyes, ridded the distracting thoughts, and concentrated on comprehending the profound formulas.
————————————
As the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament neared, Divine Phoenix City also became more clamorous day by day. The profound practitioners of the six nations who were participating in Ranking Tournament, as well as their escorts, all one by one arrived at Divine Phoenix City. To be qualified to participate in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, they were no doubt the younger generation’s most tip-top prodigies of the six nations. And the people who accompanied them here, and also similarly beings at the pinnacle of the political and profound world within the six nations… Without exception, the emperors of the six nations all personally came.
However, these people who could all look down upon a nation, when arriving at the Divine Phoenix City, there was no choice but for them to lower their heads, and be cautious and prudent. At this time, there were only three days left until the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. In the six nations, other than the Blue Wind Nation, the other five nation’s participants had already all arrived, and were settled at the core encampment of Divine Phoenix Empire, Phoenix City.
“Hm? Blue Wind Nation’s people still aren’t here today?” Listening to his subordinate’s report, Feng Ximing pondered.
“Yes. I just especially asked the city gate people, there hasn’t been any Blue Wind participants entering the city. Should we immediately sound transmit to Blue Wind Imperial Family to inquire?”
“No need.” Feng Ximing lifted his hand: “Hmph! Tiny Blue Wind Nation is also merely a joke at this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. I had thought someone interesting would happen in this session, looks like, this prince has really overestimated that kid called Yun Che. This prince had actually really believed that he would personally come participate in this Ranking Tournament like he had yelled out. I reckon that he has already hid somewhere he’d believe we can’t find him with tails between his legs.”
“No need to hurry and prepare the Blue Wind Nation’s dwelling location. It’s better that they don’t come, not only will that help us cut down the Ranking Tournament’s schedule, it also just happens to give royal father… another exceptionally good excuse. Withdraw for now… Right, today’s welcome banquet, there’s no need to arrange Blue Wind Nation’s seats either.”
“Yes.”
—————————————
“…A long long time ago, there were two young profound practitioners, one of them was named Zu Kun, the other named Liu Ti. They were of ordinary aptitude, and were frequently bullied and mocked by others. So they worked hard for prosperity, and decided to assiduously train together. Every single day before the sun even came up, as long as they heard the crow of roosters, they would get up from the bed and practice swordsmanship. Day after day, year after year, finally… They both got hit with the bird flu.”
“What is bird flu?” Feng Xue’er asked very curiously.
“Mn, it’s a very terrifying virus.” Yun Che said in dead earnest: “This story, is called “Working hard at the first crow of the rooster”. The moral of the story is that we definitely have to keep away from the bird flu.”
“Uu… This story is so boring. I still want to hear the story of Snow White… After Snow White and the Frog Prince got together, what will happen then? I really want to know.”
“This…. Let me think about it properly.” Yun Che scratched his scalp.
“Think of it properly okay… Big Brother Yun, say ahh.” Leaning on Yun Che’s shoulder, Feng Xue’er put her half-eaten dragon meat skewer beside his mouth, and watched him take a big bite out of it with a grin.
Once the pandora’s box was opened, the former taboo would rip apart a gap ever increasing in size. The Feng Xue’er who would definitely not have any contact with anyone before, was very naturally leaning together with Yun Che, eating the same meat skewer with him under various leads by Yun Che.
If Feng Hengkong saw this scene at this moment, he’d definitely be angry to the point of hovering between life and death. Slapping Yun Che into mincemeat on the spot would even be considered letting him off light.
Chapter 423 - Leaving Phoenix Perching Valley
After a long while, Yun Che finally thought of the following storyline. He cleared his throat, and just as he was about to narrate, the Phoenix God Jade hung in front of her chest suddenly flickered with a scarlet-colored light.
Feng Xue’er took up the Phoenix God Jade, her expression, suddenly became somewhat sullen.
“Xue’er, what is it?” Yun Che immediately asked.
Feng Xue’er looked at Yun Che, and said with a pitiful expression in her eyes: “It’s royal father… He’s about to come here right now, then take me back to Phoenix City. Big Brother Yun…”
“…Why is he taking you back right now? Your royal father making you stay here alone, wasn’t it because he’ll be busy with the matter of the Ranking Tournament and Primordial Profound Ark. But right now should be the time he’s the busiest.” Yun Che said somewhat puzzled.
Feng Xue’er lightly shook her head: “Royal father had said, this is the first Seven Nation Ranking Tournament ever since my birth, and he’ll take me there on-site. If I’m willing, he can even take me onto the Primordial Profound Ark. Royal father taking me back now, should be because all of the affairs have been properly prepared.”
“You will go… to the site of the Ranking Tournament?” Yun Che’s heart slightly shook.
“Mn… Big Brother Yun, quickly leave this place. If royal father sees you here, it’ll be… it’ll be bad.” Feng Xue’er stood up, her expression somewhat panicky. She grabbed Yun Che’s arm, but didn’t push him away, rather, unwittingly gripped tighter.
There were three days left from the start of the Ranking Tournament; in fact, he should’ve left a long time ago. The reason as to why he hadn’t yet left, he knew very well in his heart… It was because he wasn’t willing to part with Feng Xue’er. Her features, voice, heart, every single look, every single expression in her eyes, were all firmly attracting him, making it as if he were sucked into an endlessly beautiful starry sky, sinking deeper and deeper within.
In this world, no one can withstand her charm… And Yun Che, due to an accident stemming from many causes, with extraordinary luck, became the first person who could make close range contact with her.
“It’s indeed time for me to leave.” Yun Che exclaimed in his heart. Attentively watching Feng Xue’er’s eyes flickering with light, he lifted his hand, put it atop Xue’er’s head, as his fingers slowly slid off along the contour of her hair… This unduly intimate action, caused Feng Xue’er’s eyes to only tremble a bit. But, she did not show any signs of rejection: “Xue’er, these days, I will always remember. Thank you, and thank the heavens for letting me meet you.”
“…Big Brother Yun’s words are so weird.” Feng Xur’er minted her charming lips: “Later, we will still meet again, isn’t that right?”
“Of course.” Yun Che smilingly nodded: “Because I’ve already promised to take Xue’er to see the endlessly flowing snow. My promise to Xue’er, will never be forgotten.”
“Mn!” Feng Xue’er nodded, her expression finally becoming somewhat cheerful. Her eyes carried unwillingness to part, yet her hands were gently pushing Yun Che: “Even though, I really hate to part with Big Brother Yun, it really is time for Big Brother Yun to leave… Royal father will arrive here in less than a quarter of an hour. If you still don’t leave, you’ll really be discovered by royal father.”
“…I’m going.” Yun Che’s hand moved away from Feng Xue’er’s shoulders. After glancing at her with incredible meticulousness, he finally turned around, then called over the Snow Phoenix Beast.
Snow Phoenix Beast flew up to him, and just as he was about to hop onto Snow Phoenix Beast’s back, Yun Che stopped in his steps. He turned around, his hands quietly clutched tight, and at last he still said in a small voice: “Xue’er, if… let’s say if one day, you found out… I have lied to you about some things, will you hate me? Will you still consider me your Big Brother Yun?”
“Ah?” Yun Che’s sudden words, made Feng Xue’er a little at a loss: “Why would Big Brother Yun say such a weird thing? How is it possible for Big Brother Yun to deceive me?”
“I’m saying, just if… if there are some things, I really have deceived you on, would you hate me?” Yun Che’s voice became even quieter; a sentence that wasn’t lengthy, yet was spoken with extraordinary difficulty.
“I… I don’t know.” Feng Xue’er shook her head, the expression in her eyes was somewhat stumped, as if she couldn’t understand the question Yun Che had put forward. She lightly spoke: “But, in these days together with Big Brother Yun, what I have felt are all Big Brother Yun’s kindness toward me. Snowing for me every day, teaching me how to build snowmen, cooking delicious food for me, telling me many interesting stories… Big Brother Yun’s smile is pretty, and his gaze is also very gentle. These days, I’ve been so happy every day, even the dreams I dream when sleeping, had become very blissful.”
Yun Che: “…”
“This kind of Big Brother Yun, I don’t believe he would be willing to deceive me. Even if… even if he really deceived me, then he must’ve had no other choice, and not in order to harm me.” Every single word of Feng Xue’er, was sincere and relaxed; this was the voice coming from her heart: “I will forever remember Big Brother Yun’s kindness, and the matter he promised me… In the future, no matter what happens, I believe that Big Brother Yun will never harm me, and I’ll never do anything that’ll harm Big Brother Yun either.”
The last sentence of Feng Xue’er, made Yun Che somewhat puzzled. But even more so, it fiercely stirred up his heart. He no longer spoke, because no matter what he said under Feng Xue’er’s gaze that was as pure as snow, it would be incomparably pale in comparison. He leapt onto the Snow Phoenix Beast’s back, took off into the air under Snow Phoenix Beast’s carriage, and directly flew toward Absolute Phoenix Cliff. Feng Xue’er had already told him, that the other three directions of Phoenix Perching Valley all should have people guarding there. If he were to safely leave without alarming anyone, he would still need to go through Absolute Phoenix Cliff.
“Big Brother Yun, I’ll come here often in the future… I will wait for Big Brother Yun to appear once again…”
“Big Brother Yun, you can’t forget the words said between us. After I’m twenty, you definitely have to take me to Snow Region of Extreme Ice…”
“Big Brother Yun, Little White, I’ll miss you guys very much…”
The sound of wind howled beside his ears. Feng Xue’er’s voice came from below against the wind; the voice at last, even carried a sobbing tone that was being repressed with effort.
A few thousand meters in height, wasn’t much for Snow Phoenix Beast. Very soon, Absolute Phoenix Cliff’s summit appeared before Yun Che’s eyes. Yun Che dismounted from Snow Phoenix Beast’s back, and stood beside the cliff. Within the dark green colored valley that was like an otherworldly utopia, he could faintly see that fairy-like beautiful silhouette.
She was the princess of Divine Phoenix Empire, the most brilliant jewel of the entire Profound Sky Continent. She had been protected to the utmost limit… But at the same time, she was also lonely… Which was why, in these days he had carelessly intruded into her world, she was so happy and excited.
“Little Chan, do you want to accompany her, by her side?” With his gaze looking down, Yun Che suddenly spoke.
“Screee…” Snow Phoenix Beast slapped her wings, and let out a quiet cry. Its majestic head continuously made a few… nodding movements!
Huh? Nodding!?
With an extremely bitter and unsatisfied expression in his eyes, Yun Che gave Snow Phoenix Beast a fierce stare… Even if Xue’er’s charm can’t be resisted, even if you really want to stay by her side, you are still my contracted profound beast right nowwwww!!! Can’t you be a little bit more reserved, even if you have to fake it a little!
…Forget it.
Yun Che’s mouth became askew. He extended his wrist, as the Snow Phoenix Beast’s profound imprint emerged on the back. With a thought, the profound energy connection with Snow Phoenix Beast was directly severed. The profound imprint on the back of his hand, also slowly vanished.
Snow Phoenix Beast completely recovered its freedom. It spread its wings and took off, and circled and danced above Yun Che’s head, letting out sharp cries that one couldn’t tell whether it was from excitement or unwillingness to part.
Seeing the Snow Phoenix Beast that regained freedom, what was more in Yun Che’s heart wasn’t sadness, but a sort of relaxed feeling. He said with a faint smile: “Little Chan, go ahead. Staying with me, you will only face hardships and danger everywhere. Accompanying Xue’er, she likes you so much, and will definitely treat you well. You no longer need to suffer laborious hardship with me anymore… Go.”
Scree~~~~
A long cry resonantly sliced through the skies. After Snow Phoenix Beast danced and fluttered for a while, it finally descended, and flew toward the Phoenix Perching Valley below. Very soon, those two snow-white colored silhouettes slowly assembled together.
Yun Che let out a faint laugh. After taking another deep glance in the end, he took two steps back, then put away all of his unwillingness to part, and walked toward the south.
“Why did you let Snow Phoenix Beast leave?” Jasmine couldn’t help but ask: “You still can’t fly right now. Without Snow Phoenix Beast, what will you do when you need to fly?”
Yun Che shook his head, and said: “Giving the Snow Phoenix Beast to Xue’er, isn’t just because Xue’er likes it. It is because that I don’t know whether or not I can successfully preserve my own life during this session of Ranking Tournament. If I am unlucky… At least Snow Phoenix Beast doesn’t need to die together with me. Not only can it be saved, it can be considered a tiny bit of repayment to Xue’er… Her heart was sincere toward me, yet I, still have deceived her after all that’s said and done.”
“Hmph…” Jasmine sneered: “Deceiving girls, isn’t that your habitual method of doing things! You had never been so conscious of your guilt before, isn’t that so.”
“That’s not the same.” Yun Che curled his lips: “Conquering and deception are two entirely different concepts, a little girl like you wouldn’t understand.”
“…” Jasmine was disdained to reply, and asked conversely: “On the matter of whether or not you can keep your life, I actually have good news to tell you.”
“Good news?”
Jasmine said indifferently: “If I’m guessing correctly, after your Phoenix bloodline was found out by Divine Phoenix Sect, what you dread the most isn’t Divine Phoenix Sect, but the true progenitor of Divine Phoenix Sect… the other Phoenix Spirit, just like the Phoenix Spirit you met at the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain Range back then.”
Yun Che’s footsteps stalled a little, then he slowly nodded: “You are entirely correct. Back then, when I left the Phoenix’s trial grounds, the Phoenix Spirit had also warned severely, that I must be cautious of the other Phoenix Spirit’s existence. Divine Phoenix Sect’s Phoenix Spirit had always thought the Phoenix Spirit who granted me heritage was killed by it a long time ago. If it found out that the Phoenix’s bloodline in me stems from another Phoenix’s legacy… Then, the one who will be harmed, will not only be myself. The Phoenix Spirit of the Ten Thousand Beast Mountain Range, as well as the Phoenix tribe who just recently broke away from their curse, may also encounter a great disaster.” Yun Che uttered a low sigh: “Yet with the bloodline’s exposure, there would be no other choice but to face Divine Phoenix Sect as soon as possible. Otherwise, the ones who will be implicated would be people at my side… So, on the way here from the Blue Wind Nation, I had always prayed for that phoenix beast to always be residing in the dark, and won’t have any interest to probe into affairs of the Ranking Tournament.
“About this Phoenix Spirit, there’s already no need for you to worry.” Jasmine said emotionlessly.
“Why?”
“Because… it’s already dead!”
“What? Dead?” Yun Che’s footsteps stopped at once: “Are you sure? Wait! How did you know it’s dead?”
“Heh…” Jasmine laughed insidiously: “You don’t need to mind how I found out. It shouldn’t be too long since its death, but I am certain that it has already died! However, even though it died, there’s a high chance that the bloodline and memories have been passed on. So, in this world, there are perhaps still people who can discern that your bloodline comes from another Phoenix’s legacy.”
Yun Che’s spirit was instantly roused up. Words spoken by Jasmine in such a confidence tone, naturally he wouldn’t doubt them: “Very well! If Divine Phoenix Sect’s Phoenix Spirit really has died, then, my greatest worry is also gone! Like this, during the Ranking Tournament, I will be able to perform without any worries of future consequences!”
“And so? How confident are you to make Divine Phoenix Sect no longer find trouble for you, and also survive?”
“Seventy percent!” Yun Che said with swelling confidence: “Perhaps, I’d even be able to go for a stroll on that mysterious Primordial Profound Ark!”
Chapter 424 - Phoenix City
Yun Che descended from Absolute Phoenix Cliff, left the Phoenix Mountain Range, pondered for a bit, and then directly returned to Divine Phoenix City, heading straight toward Phoenix City.
Phoenix City was located in the south-western area of Divine Phoenix City. While belonging to Divine Phoenix City, it also existed independently, and was a special city within a city. Just like the Divine Phoenix Imperial Palace, Phoenix City was also the core base of Divine Phoenix Sect. The difference being, one was the core of authority, and the other was the core of force. While the two, both possessed incomparably strong deterrence force.
Within Phoenix City, there was a place called Phoenix Realm, which was the place where the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament had always been conducted at.
Nearing Phoenix City, a sense of pressure that made one palpate, and a distinctly scorching air surged against one’s face. Above the gigantic city gate was a huge, majestic, awe-inspiring phoenix. Yun Che stopped in his steps, but didn’t walk inside. As a tournament participant, he ought to have dwelling places that were already arranged, but there would certainly be a great deal of uncertain factors if he moved in here, since his identity was special. Him coming this time, was only to scout out the location. After confirming the location of Phoenix City, he turned around and left, then quickly disguised himself and checked in at a remote and quiet inn.
From the start of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, three last days were left.
Three days, were enough for him to finish absorbing the Sky Profound Universal Pellet.
After entering the inn and properly surveying the surroundings before closing the room’s door, Yun Che took out the Phoenix Halianthus, Devil’s Flaming Blood Crystal and the other materials, then quickly refined them with the Sky Poison Pearl. Very soon, an entirely scarlet colored pellet that seemed as if it had just been soaked in fresh blood emerged within Yun Che’s palm. As the pellet took form, a surge of berserking aura also instantly discharged, violently pushing away the surrounding air.
Lifting up this newly refined Sky Profound Universal Pellet, Yun Che didn’t even think, and threw it in his mouth without hesitation.
The Sky Profound Universal Pellet melted the moment it entered his mouth, and instantly turned into a lava-like heatwave, flooding into the profound veins and meridians of his entire body. Instantly, a pain as if he was being stabbed by needles came from his entire body. Yun Che closed his eyes, his expression entirely tranquil, as if he felt nothing. This kind of pellet that could forcefully raise one’s profound strength in a short period of time would certainly have an extremely fierce medicinal property, and the risk would often be much greater than the reward. But Yun Che, after all, had the Phoenix Blood and Dragon’s Marrow, with the Great Way of the Buddha as protection; he could even consume and drink an Emperor Profound Dragon’s flesh and blood with the body of an Spirit Profound Realm back then. With a body of the Earth Profound Realm currently, consuming the Sky Profound Universal Pellet would be even less of a concern.
Even so, under the ferocious medicinal property of the Sky Profound Universal Pellet, it was still very unpleasant for Yun Che. As the medicinal power slowly dissolved outwards, the heat steam that flooded into his profound veins also became more and more ruthless and fierce. Even though his expression was calm on his face, his forehead was already quietly covered with fine, dense sweat.
………………………………
The time it took to absorb the Sky Profound Universal Pellet was around what Yun Che had expected. When he completely finished absorbing,and opened his eyes, it was already the early morning of the third day.
Yun Che stood up and extended his hands. In these three days, his clothes were soaked through once and once again by sweat, and was emitting a pungent smell of sweat. He opened up his palm, and a small profound energy whirlpool appeared in the center of his palm. And as he closed up his palm, the profound energy whirlpool immediately dispersed, letting out a resounding sound of popping air.
“The extent of the increase in power is about the same as I expected. From Sky Profound Realm, there is finally only one step away.” Yun Che clenched his fist, and muttered to himself: “Jasmine, how long did it take for me to absorb it.?”
“Three days.”
“Oh… What? Three days?!”
Yun Che quivered, and fiercely jumped up. He quickly took a look outside the window, judged the time a little, then scampered off toward the door: “Jasmine! Why didn’t you call me! Today is the date of the Ranking Tournament you know, there’s still quite a long distance from here to Phoenix City!”
“I don’t have the obligation to warn you.”
As he rushed to the doorstep, Yun Che stopped in his steps. He smelled his sleeves a little, and heavily shut the door he pulled open once again: “Oh well, let me take a bath first.”
Jasmine: “…”
——————————————————————
When Yun Che came rushing to the Phoenix City, it was already nearly nine in the morning. From the start of the Ranking Tournament, less than half an hour was left.
The front of the Phoenix City gate was surrounded by densely packed crowds. These people were all ones who weren’t qualified to enter, or didn’t manage to get an admission ticket, and could only unwillingly pace back and forth outside of the city, hoping they could receive the tournament feed at the first moment. Yun Che quickly pushed the crowd aside and rushed to the front of Phoenix City’s main city gate, then was stopped by two Phoenix disciples.
“Show your qualification for entrance.” One of the Phoenix disciples who stopped him said lazily. The same kind of words, he probably have repeated countless times today.
“I am the participant from Blue Wind Nation.” Yun Che said succinctly, and at the same time took out his participant emblem.
The moment the red participant emblem was taken out, the two Phoenix disciple’s gazes instantly concentrated in attention. As they made out the two words “Blue Wind” clearly, they looked at each other for a bit, and revealed the same kind of odd expression in their eyes. One of the Phoenix disciple shouted at the inside: “Senior Brother Zhanyun, Blue Wind Nation’s participant has arrived!”
“Hah? Blue Wind!?”
Very soon, a young person with a robust physique walked out. He saw the participant emblem in Yun Che’s hand at a glance, then gave him a stare and said softly: “We had thought that your Blue Wind Nation didn’t dare to come, you actually came at this time. You are treating this Ranking Tournament way too flippantly… Forget it, let me personally bring you guys in. Where are the people other than you?”
“None.” Yun Che shook his head: “Just me.”
“Hah? Just you alone?”
“That’s right, Blue Wind this time, only has me alone as the tournament participant. There aren’t any others, nor are there any escorts. I’ll trouble you to bring me in, the Ranking Tournament is about to start.” Yun Che said calmly.
Feng Zhanyun sized up Yun Che from head to toe, then probed his profound strength on a whim. The corner of his lips flattened, as he was too lazy to say anything else. He said heedlessly: “Oh well, since you’ve come, then come with me.”
“Senior Brother Zhanyun, should we report this to Great Elder?”
“No need.” Feng Zhanyun waved his hand: “The Ranking Tournament is about to start, there’s no need to distract him with such a trivial matter. After all, he’s only here to show a formality, just make the arrangements as you wish.”
Phoenix City was the core ground of Divine Phoenix Sect, and naturally wouldn’t let outsiders step in as they wish. The means to get through to Phoenix Realm’s core, was a somewhat long and narrow rigid passage. On both sides of the passage came the auras of fire profound formations. Clearly, anyone who dared to try to step into areas outside of the passageway would definitely encounter attacks by the profound formations.
Entering Phoenix Realm, before even nearing the Ranking Tournament’s arena, a wave of bustling and impassioned air had already blasted head on. When entering the arena, Yun Che’s entire person went stupefied for a bit.
Cang Wanhe had told him before, that to the Blue Wind’s profound practitioners, the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was a disgrace they were most unwilling to talk about. But to the other six nations, it was the most important and grand occasion for the profound practitioning world that came every twenty five years. When a session of the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament approached, from emperors to commoners, none of them wouldn’t follow with all their heart. For this ranking tournament, they would even start preparing five years prior.
And at this moment, Yun Che finally began to understand what the “Seven Nation Ranking Tournament” seldomly mentioned by the Blue Wind Nation meant.
The enormous scale of the arena, far surpassed his expectations, and the overwhelming majority of the arena, was naturally the audience seats. At a glance, the crowds were bustling with activity, endless and boundless. From top to bottom, the entire arena was filled with people, and definitely was no less than several million in number. In the sky high above, numerous people were flying about like locusts.
Comparing the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament’s atmosphere and scale with this… It could be said that the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament wasn’t even qualified to be compared.
The incomparably enormous seating areas were divided into several sections, and every single section were filled with people, with no empty seats at all, but they still could be considered distinctively divided. At the frontmost area of the seating, Yun Che saw the respective insignias of five nations, and the five nation’s participants and escorts sat amongst these seats. Behind them, were all basically the supporters of their own country. Before the Ranking Tournament even began, the faces of each and every one of them were thoroughly flushed, their eyes glowed, and their expressions were filled with excitement and expectation. To them, being able to enter the ranking tournament’s scene to cheer for their own country and testify the tournament’s course, was already an honor that they could flaunt for their entire lives.
The main seating area of the arena naturally belonged to Divine Phoenix Sect. However, the Divine Phoenix Sect’s frontmost seats were empty, and Divine Phoenix Sect’s big shots haven’t arrived yet.
Yun Che’s gaze quickly swept around, yet he couldn’t find Blue Wind’s seating area at all.
“Heh, how is it? Are you startled, is it that you’ve never seen such a great spectacle since the day you were born?” Feng Zhanyun asked as he looked at Yun Che with the corner of his eyes.
“Why is there no seating area for Blue Wind Nation?” Yun Che asked with his brows knitted.
“Why should there be?” Feng Zhanyun curled his lips, and asked back: “Your Blue Wind Nation’s profound practitioner coming to this Seven Nation’s Ranking Tournament, isn’t it just for making up the number of ‘Seven Nation’, or perhaps… Heheh, adding a little laughing stock. Speaking of which, you guys ought to have seats, after all, you lot are at least an independent nation. But up until three days ago, we still haven’t received any news from the Blue Wind Nation, and thought that you guys aren’t even bothering to ‘make up’ a number, so we didn’t prepare anything regarding your Blue Wind Nation, including seating.”
Yun Che’s brows tightened up, and didn’t speak.
This wasn’t a problem of whether or not seating was prepared, even if Blue Wind Nation declared to not participate a few months ahead of time, there still should be Blue Wind Nation’s seating area here… Because this was the most basic recognition and respect for a genuinely existing nation.
But in the entire arena right now, the six nations were all present, only Blue Wind Nation’s seating area didn’t exist… This was simply already not putting Blue Wind Nation in their eyes without any intention to hide it! It could even be a deliberate act of contempt and humiliation.
He believed that there must be many spectators from the Blue Wind Nation in the arena. Every single person of the Blue Wind Nation seeing this kind of scene, would definitely become so angry that their lungs would explode.
“And it’s fortunate that we didn’t prepare. Only a kid like you came from Blue Wind. Tsk tsk, if a chunk of seating for Blue Wind was reserved, that’d really be too wasteful. As for you… Hm, there aren’t any other empty seats, you can only stand here I suppose. When you are required to enter the stage, you can just fly over from here, how convenient is that… Oh right, you seemed to only be at the Earth Profound Realm, and can’t use the Profound Floating Technique yet. Then just do as you fit, I guess. I, Feng Zhanyun personally bringing you here, and even arranging a place here for you to stand, is already gaining a lot of face for you, enough for you to go flaunting about it for a decade or so.”
The “here” Feng Zhanyun was talking about, was a corner at the utmost edge of the colossal arena. Not only was the location extremely bad, the center of the arena couldn’t be seen if one’s eyepower wasn’t enough, it couldn’t even be considered a seat! If one really had to find an advantage for this position, it could only be that this location could overlook a great half of the arena.
Chapter 425 - Arrival of the Sacred Grounds (1)
“Kid, I can’t help but say that I really admire your courage and cheek. If it was me, let’s not even talk about coming alone; just speaking of this Earth Profound Realm… Heh heh, I wouldn’t have the face to enter this arena.” Feng Zhanyun smiled mockingly. Suddenly, his complexion flickered, and his gaze turned towards the center of the main seats. His voice stirred excitedly: “Sect Master, Young Sect Master, and the Great Elders have arrived… Ah…”
At this time, Feng Zhanyun’s breathing suddenly became hurried and brief. His eyes stared forward rigidly, and his voice began trembling: “Ah… ah-ah-ah-ah… that’s… could it be… Princess Snow!?”
The incomparably enormous arena was capable of holding almost three million people; just the sound of everyone’s breathing amounted to rumbling thunder. But at this moment, the enormous arena instantly became incomparably silent, such that even a pin drop could have been heard, and it seemed like everything had frozen in motion. Everyone’s gazes were directed upward, attentively watching the phoenix flame that had been lit in the sky.
The flame in the air assumed the shape of a flying phoenix. Atop the phoenix flame, several silhouettes descended slowly. Among the Divine Phoenix Sect’s seats, all of the participants from the Divine Phoenix Sect were already seated; even the princes, elders, hall masters, pavilion masters, and city masters were already there. But the foremost fifteen seats of the Divine Phoenix Clan were still vacant. And the position of these fifteen seats were evidently higher than that of princes and elders!
Today, the owners of these fifteen center seats finally arrived.
The silhouettes in the air slowly descended as they stepped on the Phoenix flame. Included among these people were the Divine Phoenix Sect’s Feng Hengkong and Great Elder Feng Feiyan. Young Sect Master and Crown Prince, Feng Ximing, was also lined up grandly. The other ten people were all elder and city master-level existences that were at the peak of strength and prestige in Divine Phoenix Sect. Without the least exaggeration, any individual among these people was a super existence capable of showing disdain in the Profound Sky. They stood together, their enormous imposing manner enveloping the entire arena, making all three million people in the arena have a heavy suffocating feeling.
However, including the Divine Phoenix Sect Master Feng Hengkong, not one person became the focal point of everyone’s gazes. Everyone’s gazes, as if locked by some irresistible force, fell onto the delicate and tender figure of the young girl standing beside Feng Henkong. She was dressed in luxurious phoenix clothing and wore a Phoenix Jade Crown. The Phoenix Jade glass that hung down from her crown completely shrouded her visage, rendering one incapable of even getting the slightest glimpse of her skin and grace.
But when people looked at such a girl, whose complexion couldn’t even be seen, their souls would still suddenly surge intensely. They were unable to describe such a feeling, as if they had fallen into an illusory dreamland all of a sudden, watching a girl that had walked out of a dream… Although they couldn’t see her face, every person’s heart was filled with the incomparably firm belief that she must have the world’s most perfect appearance, no less than that of a heavenly fairy.
This seemed like some kind of magic, and also seemed like a dreamy temperament that shouldn’t belong to a young girl from the mortal world.
At this time, the Feng Hengkong and Feng Feiyan-level existences beside this young girl completely became decorative props, the many stars around the arched moon. In fact, while Feng Hengkong and the young girl stood in the middle, and the others stood evenly spread around them, the center of the region they encircled wasn’t Feng Hengkong… but that young girl.
“Princess Snow… it’s the fabled Princess Snow!” Within the arena, a man yelled with incomparable excitement.
“Besides Princess Snow, who can stand on equal footing with the Phoenix Sect Master… Besides Princess Snow, who can possess such celestial character… Heavens! I’m actually seeing the fabled Princess Snow…”
“Having spent a tenth of the family property in order to get ahold of this entrance ticket, I felt a little conned originally… But to be able to catch a glimpse of Princess Snow, even if I lost the entire family fortune, it would be completely worth it!”
“I couldn’t be dreaming, right? Princess Snow only appeared that one time when she was thirteen… Today, I’m actually witnessing her charm and grace with my own eyes…”
“It’s a pity, we can’t see Princess Snow’s face. The thirteen year old Princess Snow already possessed the beauty of a heavenly being; the sixteen year old Princess Snow right now… who knows to what extent her beauty has developed.”
“Know satisfaction already, you! Being able to witness Princess Snow’s figure with your own eyes, is already a fortune gained by your former incarnation! How could Princess Snow’s heavenly appearance be something that common folks like us are qualified to appreciate!”
…………
…………
The enormous arena once again became clamorous. The impassioned mood that had filled the entire arena, had all turned into the excitement and exclamation towards Princess Snow, making the people almost forget why they came here today. They felt that even if they were to leave the arena right now without being able to see the ranking tournament, being able to have a glance at Princess Snow’s beauty was already more than tens of millions times worth it.
In this entire world, to be able to instigate such a great shock with an entrance, moreover with covered features, Princess Snow would be the only one!
Feng Hengkong’s gaze was tranquil yet dignified. His eyes swept through the entire audience, and wasn’t slightly surprised at this abrupt commotion. His gaze turned, and when it fell onto the Feng Xue’er beside him, the dignified gaze instantly became incomparably gentle, so gentle as though he was afraid his gaze would bring her harm.
This number one hegemon of the Profound Sky Seven Nations, a supreme being like the Emperor of Heaven’s Palace, would also only reveal such an expression in his eyes when facing this sole daughter of his.
“Princess Snow… It’s really Princess Snow.”
Feng Zhanyun’s face became thoroughly flushed. His legs were trembling, he was excited and moved to the point of almost slacking down onto the ground. His hand pressed at the position of his heart with power, as if he didn’t do it, his heart would even jump out from his thoracic cavity. He had already planned to just throw Yun Che here and leave right away, but Princess Snow’s appearance made his footsteps unable to move any longer. His two eyes fixedly watched on, as his soul had almost flew outside of the world.
Yun Che was naturally aware of Feng Xue’er’s charm. Looking at the charming figure of Xue’er in the distance, and looking at Feng Zhanyun’s expression… As a man, he really wanted to flauntingly roar: Not only have I seen Xue’er’s true appearance, I’ve even touched her hand and hair, do you believe me!? Are you envious!?
Of course, he absolutely didn’t dare to speak these words. Watching everyone’s reactions, he was certain that if he really shouted out, Feng Hengkong wouldn’t need to tear him apart personally; everyone present would use their gazes to pierce him until he looked like a porcupine!
Yun Che tapped Feng Zhanyun, pretended to be puzzled, and asked: “Aren’t you from the Divine Phoenix Sect? Why are you still so excited to see Princess Snow? Could it be that the people inside your sect don’t ordinarily see her?”
“Of course! In this world, how many people have the qualifications to be near Princess Snow!” Feng Zhanyun said emotionally: “Princess Snow is usually kept beside the Ancestral Phoenix God; she’s the first person in the history of my Divine Phoenix Sect that the Ancestral Phoenix God has personally given guidance to. Other than Sect Master and the Great Elder-level people, meeting Princess Snow is simply impossible…”
Having spoken to this point, Feng Zhanyun suddenly snapped awake from his excitement: “F*ck! Why’d I just say all this to you! You’ve practically run through eight million years of good luck! Someone only at the Earth Profound Realm, representing Blue Wind Empire as a stopgap, was actually able to see Princess Snow on the spot… Your life can be considered worth it now!”
“…Yes, yes.” Yun Che nodded, then silently knit his eyebrows… Ancestral Phoenix God? Without a doubt, it should be that Phoenix Spirit! He asked probingly: “You just said… Ancestral Phoenix God? I’ve heard that your Divine Phoenix Sect has at least five thousand years of history. Your ancestor can live up to five thousand years old?”
Feng Zhanyun used a gaze as though he was looking at a retard and gave Yun Che a glance from the side: “In the end, you’re just a nobody from Blue Wind Empire; how could you understand my Divine Phoenix Sect’s inside information. Our Ancestral Phoenix God is the world’s most powerful spirit! What does an insignificant five thousand years mean; the Ancestral Phoenix God has an everlasting life! It will always protect my Divine Phoenix Sect, and will never wither away. Are you aware of the Four Great Sacred Grounds? The Four Great Sacred Grounds all have tens of thousands of years of history, but five thousand years ago, my Divine Phoenix Sect rose abruptly. In less than three hundred years’ time, it has become the number one sect in the Profound Sky Continent. The Four Great Sacred Grounds have never tried to suppress us; do you know why? Heh heh, it’s because of the existence of our Ancestral Phoenix God! Even if it was some Saint Emperor, Sovereign of the Seas, Heavenly Monarch or Sword Master, they still wouldn’t dare to act rashly in front of my Ancestral Phoenix God…”
Feng Zhanyun finished speaking loftily, then curled his lip disdainfully: “Forget it, speaking about this to you is useless. In your lifetime, I estimate your limit will be the late stages of the Sky Profound Realm. Even if you cultivated for ten thousand lives, you still wouldn’t be able to touch the Ancestral Phoenix God’s current strength.”
“Oh~~~” Yun Che answered without much thought, then sank deep into thought… From what Feng Zhanyun had said, not only did the Ancestral Phoenix God still exist, it had an unlimited lifespan, and it made even the Four Great Sacred Grounds cower in fear from its might.
Yet Jasmine had said with an extremely certain tone… that that Phoenix Spirit had already died.
Could it be, the Divine Phoenix Sect had concealed the fact that the Phoenix Spirit had died this entire time?
This was extremely probable! After all, the Phoenix Spirit’s existence was an enormous deterrence to the Four Great Sacred Grounds. If news of the Phoenix Spirit’s death spread out, then the greatest deterrence of the Divine Phoenix Sect would no longer exist. Furthermore, it would also no longer have the qualifications to challenge the Four Great Sacred Grounds anymore.
The Phoenix Flame beneath Feng Hengkong and company went out, and they landed on the ground, then sat down in their seats. Feng Xue’er sat besides Feng Hengkong, a position on the same level as that of Feng Hengkong! The other people all sat behind them. Yun Che silently watched Feng Xue’er’s silhouette, and his heart sighed lightly… Xue’er, the next time you see me, what will your feelings be? Will you be hurt and sad… If that’s the case, even I will be incapable of forgiving myself.
As for Feng Zhanyun, he already thoroughly didn’t have any desire to leave. He stared fixedly at Feng Xue’er’s dream-like silhouette, and his face filled with an expression of infatuation and devotion… Yun Che estimated that right now, even if he struck him with a rod, he wouldn’t leave.
Feng Hengkong just sat, took a glance at the time, swept his gaze across the distinguished seats reserved for those from the Four Great Sacred Grounds, and said: “Have the honored guests from the Sacred Grounds arrived yet?
“They are always conceited with their status, and would never arrive until the last moment, there is no need for Sect Master to mind. Their intentions are set on the Primordial Profound Ark, they will certainly come.” Feng Feiyan said expressionlessly. He was the directly related older brother of Feng Hengkong, and was only seven years older than him, yet he looked to be twenty or thirty years older. With his cultivation, at two hundred years old, he could totally look no different than twenty or thirty, but it was very clear that he did not choose to deliberately control the characteristics of age with profound strength.
“Mn.” Feng Hengkong slowly nodded: “Since they are honored guests, we’ll wait for fifteen minutes longer.”
“Hahahaha, no need for fifteen minutes. An honored invitation of the phoenix, how could I, this Ling, not come.”
An ear-splitting hearty laugh sounded from above, and instantly resounded through the entire arena as if a gale, jolting to the point of causing everyone’s eardrums to severely quiver. Right after, the enormous pressure belonging to an Overlord enveloped down, as a green colored figure quickly flashed through the air, then fell upon the “Mighty Heavenly Sword Region” seat like a ghost.
The moment the voice sounded, Yun Che’s thoughts flickered at once. Because he was extraordinarily familiar with this voice. And when that person descended, Yun Che’s brows also moved along with it…
Sure enough, it was Ling Kun!!
The person at the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament back then, who was invited as witness by the Heavenly Sword Villa! That time, he had even taken the initiative to throw out an olive branch at Yun Che, inviting him to join Mighty Heavenly Sword Region.
Who would’ve thought the person representing the Mighty Heavenly Sword Region at this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament would also be him!
Chapter 426 - Arrival of the Sacred Grounds (2)
“Haha,” Feng Hengkong stood up, and cupped his hands at Ling Kun: “Elder Ling, it has been twenty-five years; I trust you have been well.”
“As expected, the one coming from Mighty Heavenly Sword Region is this person again.” Feng Zhanyun murmured with a low voice.
“Again? Which means, it was him last time as well?” Yun Che asked.
“That’s right. The people of Mighty Heavenly Sword Region all reportedly practice their sword in tranquility, yet this Ling Kun instead travels the seven nations of Profound Sky for years on end, and is the person who stays outside of Mighty Heavenly Sword Region for the longest time. Even though his status at Mighty Heavenly Sword Region isn’t very high, it seems that he has received much of the Sword Master’s recognition.”
Ling Kun also gave Feng Hengkong a wave: “I naturally have been well. Rather than that, Sect Master Feng’s aura has become even more thick and profound, this Ling is already far, far behind.”
“Haha, Elder Ling is being modest.” Feng Hengkong laughed faintly, then his tone changed: “Elder Ling, would the one who has arrived together with you, be Young Hall Master Ye?”
Once Feng Hengkong’s question ended, the complexions of the Phoenix Elders behind immediately changed slightly as they raised their heads upwards in succession.
“Hahahaha!”
Another hearty laugh came from a distance overhead. This laughter was not as vast and powerful as Ling Kun’s but it was willful and flamboyant, and there were only a few in the Profound Sky Continent who would dare to laugh this unrestrainedly in Divine Phoenix Sect’s territory. Amidst the wild laughter, an illustrious white radiance akin to the blazing sun suddenly projected in the sky above. On the other side, an equally dazzling floating crescent moon appeared as well. This sun and moon instantly snatched away all the brilliance in this space.
A young man slowly walked out from within the radiance of the circular sun and crescent moon. Dressed in white, his brows were as sharp as swords and his eyes glistened like stars. His face was like white jade, the slanted and slender brows penetrated deeply into his hairline, as an aloof yet nefarious smile hung on his face… To be more precise, that was an obscene smile. While he himself, didn’t have any intentions of hiding this “Obsceneness”.
He opened his arms, and at once, two women bewitching in every way walked out from the radiance, swinging their water snake-like waist, and threw themselves into his embrace from both sides. The man bursted into a loud laughter, and under the light of the sun’s and moon’s brilliance, the sleeves of his robe fluttered as he slowly descended while holding two women. Moreover, he continuously moved his hands up and down on the two women’s bodies, as if this were a place with no people. Under his caressing and stroking, the two bewitching women moaned again and again with their waists wringing about.
“This person…” Yun Che’s brows greatly knitted, but it wasn’t because of his utterly unbearable conduct under the eyes of everyone. Rather, it was because from this person’s body, he felt an extremely dangerous kind of aura.
The more unbridled and pompous someone was on the surface, they would often be some useless person who only drinks and eats, and would be very easy to deal with… But on this person, this rule did not apply at all! The warning of danger Yun Che felt due to a certain aura on him, was incomparably intense.
“As expected of Phoenix Sect Master; these little gimmicks of mine, really are inadequate in front of Phoenix Sect Master.” As the young man landed, the brilliance of the sun and moon finally vanished as well. Yet he didn’t land on his seat, and instead landed in front of Divine Phoenix Sect’s seating area, less than a mere ten steps away from Feng Xue’er’s seat. He let go of the two women, took a step forward, as he slightly raised his hand, his eyes narrowed halfway: “Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Ye Xinghan, greets Phoenix Sect Master. I have already heard Phoenix Sect Master’s prestige for a long time, to be able to meet today is the blessing of my three lifetimes.”
“What? Ye Xinghan!?”
Hearing this youth reveal his name, the audience instantly cried out in surprise. Because, this was the name of Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master! The person from Sun Moon Divine Hall this time, was actually the Young Hall Master!!
Though Feng Hengkong had already learnt that Ye Xinghan was unbridled with women, he didn’t expect him to be so debauched. He faintly smiled, and said: “Young Hall Master’s words are too strong. Rather, Young Hall Master’s name is like a thunder which pierces the ear. Meeting you today, your excellence is superior than your reputation… Young Hall Master’s seat is to the right side of Elder Ling. Three honored guests, please enter your seats.”
“No need to hurry.” Yet Ye Xinghan leisurely rebuffed. His gaze shifted, and fell upon Feng Xue’er’s body. A pair of long and narrow eyes instantly squinted, as they radiated an extremely scorching light…
Up until now, it could be said that Ye Xinghan have had his way with countless women. And the women who he took a fancy to, their looks, physique were all one chosen from a thousand. It could be said that his immunity toward women’s looks and disposition was extremely high, yet at the moment he saw Feng Xue’er, he felt all of the blood in his entire body start to boil, as every single cell in his body throbbed madly.
For the first time in his life, Ye Xinghan had a feeling of not daring to believe that she actually exist, while she was clearly before his eyes. It was even to the point where he couldn’t imagine just what kind of celestial beauty was underneath this sort of air that transcended worldliness. The desire to possess crazily sprouted and grew within his chest cavity and soul… At the same time, her physique, was more so unparalleled under heaven…
She was simply the most flawless woman, the most flawless incubator!
“Could this Phoenix goddess be, the Princess Snow known as the number one beauty of Profound Sky?” Staring at Feng Xue’er, Ye Xinghai spoke with his eyes pursed up. Everyone in the world knew the name of Princess Snow, and everyone in the world also knew to what extent Divine Phoenix Sect protected Princess Snow. Therefore, even if one had millions of intentions toward Princess Snow, they definitely shouldn’t, and also wouldn’t dare to reveal such intentions in front of Feng Hengkong and Divine Phoenix Sect’s crowd. Yet this Ye Xinghan had the gaze of a wolf, his wrists rolling, not concealing his desire that was as scorching as a fiery inferno in the slightest… No one knew if it was because his desire had gotten to his self-control, or… he simply wasn’t afraid of Divine Phoenix Sect’s fury at all.
The various elders and disciples of Divine Phoenix Sect all revealed the expression of anger. A few core disciples were already on the verge of exploding into a flight of rage; their fists clenched tightly, as they wished they could immediately rush up and fight Ye Xinghan to the death. Princess Snow was their jewel of Divine Phoenix Empire, the sacred goddess in everyone’s hearts. They definitely would not allow anyone to taint or lay a finger on her… even if it were laying a finger in terms of gaze and words!
“This bastard… He’s courting death!!” Feng Ximing’s hands clenched tightly, his finger joints making “pop pop” sounds. The other princes were also gnashing their teeth in anger… However, the identity of “Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master” caused them to not dare to act rashly at all, even though they were extremely furious… That was the Young Hall Master of a Sacred Ground! The future ruler of a Sacred Ground!
If they shed all pretenses of cordiality with this Ye Xinghan, that would undoubtedly be having a fallout with the entire Sun Moon Divine Hall! Even though Divine Phoenix Sect was the number one great sect of Profound Sky, they still didn’t have the courage to shed all pretenses with a Sacred Ground yet… Unless they are forced till their last straw.
Contrary to one’s expectations, Feng Hengkong instead had a calm expression. He said to Feng Xue’er: “Xue’er, this one is Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master Ye Xinghan. Even though he is lustful by nature and unbridled with woman, he can still be considered a seldom outstanding youth. Say hello to him.”
Feng Hengkong’s words, made it hard for people to make out the negative connotation, but this tone of extreme dullness, was already faintly revealing the fury hidden behind his endurance.
Feng Xue’er stood up, and lightly bowed: “Xue’er greets Young Hall Master Ye.”
Feng Xue’er’s voice was gentle like water, and misty as the cloud, making Ye Xinghan’s heart and soul surge from listening to it. He started at Feng Xue’er, and said with a grinning face: “Young Sis Xue’er is being too unfamiliar. The address of Young Hall Master Ye is both vapid and foreign, just call me Big Brother Ye. Young Sis Xue’er’s voice is like the voice of a goddess, more beautiful than anything I can imagine. Being known as the number one beauty of the Profound Sky, your visage must be more so incomparably gorgeous. I wonder if I can have the honor, to witness Young Sis Xue’er’s otherworldly charming looks.”
“Crack!”
A deep crack instantly appeared on the chair under Feng Ximing. He clenched his teeth tightly, and was just about to stand, but was pulled back by a huge hand right away. Feng Feiyan pressed him down, and said with a low voice: “Do not fly into a rage. How could Sect Master allow him to lay his finger on Xue’er in the slightest.”
Feng Ximing’s chest moved up and down, his eyes bloodshot, but he still suppressed his anger with great effort, enduring with effort and didn’t act up again.
Feng Xue’er replied with a gentle and calm voice: “Please forgive Xue’er for refusing. Xue’er’s looks are crude, and difficult to enter by Young Hall Master’s eyes.”
Ye Xinghan bursted into a loud laughter: “If this number one beauty of the world could also be called ‘crude’, then there wouldn’t be any woman that could be viewed in this world. Since Young Sis Xue’er isn’t willing… then that’s fine. This place is under the gaze of the masses; how can Young Sis Xue’er’s otherworldly charms be tainted by the gazes of a bunch of common folks. Going face to face with Young Sis Xue’er some other day, and appreciate you alone, wouldn’t that be more pleasant… Hahahaha!”
Amidst the wanton laughter, Ye Xinghan turned around, drew the two women toward him, as he walked toward his seat with undisciplined steps. However, after having seen Feng Xue’er’s fantastical figure that was as illusory as a goddess, he felt the two women as charming as flowers beside him were simply vulgar to the extreme, causing him to no longer have the desire to feel them up.
“This bastard… If he dares to harm Princess Snow, even if he is whatever Sun Moon Divine Hall’s Young Hall Master, this daddy will still fight him to the death!!” Feng Zhanyun’s hands clenched into fists, his eyes bloodshot as he fixedly stared at Ye Xinghan. That gaze, was akin to looking at an enemy who could not coexist under the same sky with him.
“Jasmine, how strong is this Ye Xinghan?” Yun Che asked in a quiet voice.
“Tyrant Profound Realm middle stage. He’s a being you absolutely cannot afford to offend! Even the two women beside him, are high ranked Thrones! You’ll have to pay quite the price if you want to defeat either of one of them.” Jasmine warned coldly: “The level of the Four Great Sacred Grounds, is not something the current you is qualified to touch. By all means, you better not overestimate your ability and seek your own death.”
Yun Che didn’t speak, his expression overcast.
The moment Ye Xinghan entered the seats, Ling Kun immediately moved over to him, and said with an extremely quiet voice: “Young Hall Master, so it seems your purpose for coming personally, is as expectedly this Princess Snow.”
Ye Xinghan’s palm inserted into the bosom clothing of the woman on his right, kneading wantonly, his eyes queer and obscene: “At the first glance of her, I already knew this name of number one beauty of Profound Sky was indeed well-deserved. Only today did this young master find out, that there would actually be such a perfect woman in this world. Just her silhouette and presence, was already enough to subdue this young master… Heh!”
“Seems like, Young Hall Master is resolute on this.” Ling Kun smiled faintly: “But it seems that Young Hall Master was a bit too hasty. At this Divine Phoenix Sect, Princess Snow can be considered the greatest taboo!”
“Too hasty? HAHAHAHA!” Ye Xinghan laughed wildly: “In the world of I, Ye Xinghan, there had never been such a phrase of too hasty! The woman I took a fancy for, they think they can stop me with just their Divine Phoenix Sect!?”
Ye Xinghan extended his slender finger, and gently stroked along the waist of the woman on his leg, as a dangerous smile emerged on his face: “Elder Ling, do you believe me… In no more than three days, this Princess Snow, will completely become my, Ye Xinghan’s, woman. Her body, her bloodline… would all forever belong to me, Ye Xinghan. Even if their Divine Phoenix Sect does not admit it, they’ll have to admit!”
Ling Kun’s eyelids jumped… Words coming from Ye Xinghan’s mouth, definitely wouldn’t be baseless words. Since he dares to say so, then he possessed definite assurance. He once again lowered his voice, and laughed along with him: “Young Hall Master’s words, I naturally believe them ten thousand times. Then, I’ll congratulate Young Hall Master ahead of time.”
Turning his eyes to the side, Ye Xinghan looked at Ling Kun: “That woman with the ‘Nine Profound Exquisite body’… It can’t be that Elder Ling has forgotten, right?”
“Heh, how could this old man forgot about this matter. However… the one and half kilos of Purple Veined Divine Crystal, I wonder if Young Hall Master…”
“Don’t worry, the legendary Nine Profound Exquisite Body… Let alone one and half kilos of Purple Veined Divine Crystal, even fifteen kilos would be worth it! However, Elder Ling should also know, this Purple Veined Divine Crystal is too hard to find, and is also often consumed ordinarily. In these two years, bit by bit, this young master had also only saved up one kilogram.”
Ye Xinghan took out a spatial ring glinting with a purple light: “In here, is one kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystal. I wonder, how much information of that woman can I get with this kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals?”
Chapter 427 - Supreme Ocean Palace: Ji Qianrou
Ling Kun received the ring. After sweeping a glance at the things inside, his eyes flashed with an unconcealable hint of excitement. He didn’t return the spatial ring to Ye Xinghan and instead put it away with a smile: “Young Hall Master is indeed straightforward, looks like this old man calling Young Hall Master to do such a transaction was indeed a choice that couldn’t be more right.. That woman has just turned nineteen this year, and is in Blue Wind Nation.”
“Blue Wind?” Ye Xinghan revealed astonishment, then snorted faintly: “That tiny little place where one would feel as though they were lowering their status if they went there, is actually able to produce one who possess the godly body of legends, ‘Nine Profound Exquisite Body’? Elder Ling, are you certain that it was the ‘Nine Profound Exquisite Body’?”
Ye Xinghan’s last sentence had a distinct hint of a warning overtone. Blue Wind Nation was an inferior land that regarded the Emperor Profound as its summit, making him completely unable to believe that it could have any relationship with the “Nine Profound Exquisite Body” that was difficult to find even once every ten thousand years. Ling Kun’s expression didn’t change at all as he said lowly: “If I wasn’t certain, even if I had more courage, I wouldn’t dare do this transaction with Young Hall Master. If Young Hall Master uses this Nine Profound Exquisite Body as a incubator, it is inevitable that your cultivation would increase by bounds! In comparison, an insignificant one and a half kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals cannot be said to be anything.”
Ye Xinghan restrained his expression as he chuckled: “Having done so many deals with Elder Ling, I’m obviously extremely relieved by Elder Ling’s words. I will slowly gather the other half kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals. When that time comes, Elder Ling must not disappoint me.”
“Ha! When that time comes, Young Hall Master should just wait to get ahold of a great surprise!” Ling Kun said with narrowed eyes. He didn’t say that the woman who possessed the Nine Profound Exquisite Body was one whose beauty was no less inferior to that of Princess Snow. Even though it would greatly increase the cost of his bargaining chip, it would easily make Ye Xinghan immediately pay close attention to Blue Wind Nation’s number one beauty, Xia Qingyue. If that happened, he would lose half a kilogram of Purple Veined Divine Crystals.
Seated near an unremarkable corner was an unremarkably dressed person who coldly gazed at Ye Xinghan’s back figure. Both of his hands slowly tightened as words brimming with deep-rooted hatred came out between his gritted teeth: “Sun… Moon… Divine… Hall…”
Heavenly Mighty Sword Region and Sun Moon Divine Hall had arrived, but Absolute Monarch Sanctuary and Supreme Ocean Palace still had yet to come. Feng Hengkong didn’t seem to have been affected by Ye Xinghan’s arrogance. He serenely sat down, and glanced at the time again. There were still several tens of breaths left until the start of the ranking tournament.
At the moment, a gently breeze suddenly blew over, bringing along the faint aroma of flowers that made anyone who scented it feel intoxicated. Suddenly, the fluttering of many flower petals that came from who knows where, suddenly appeared above the arena. Whether the petals were pure white, captivating red, or gloriously yellow… they danced, filling the sky with extreme beauty.
“It smells so good…”
“Did some goddess arrive?”
“It must be a goddess from the Sacred Grounds that have come… I’m too lucky today, not only have I seen Princess Snow, I even have the chance to see the grace of a fairy from the Sacred Grounds!”
Seeing the sky filled with dancing petals and the touching fragrance of flowers, every man in the audience became excited as their scorching gazes looked up above. The floating petals began to become more and more crowded together, as the fragrance also became more and more rich and intoxicating. Suddenly, a huge ball of petals extravagantly bursted open in mid air. Under the enormous rain of flower petals, an endlessly charming silhouette emerged.
This was a man handsome and pretty to an extreme degree. A suit of snow-white attire, his black hair was like ink, the color of his face fair like jade, his facial features was as if they had been carved out by an artist, delicate beyond compare. His brows were as slender as the new moon, slightly bent and raised on one end; his eyes were like the cherry blossom, and the fluid gaze like a young girl’s stirred within. Everyone below raised their head up high, and looked at this man who was slowly floating down with endless petals in a stupefied manner. No matter men or women, all of their hearts birthed an feeling of being ashamed of their inferiority.
“What an elegant and eminently handsome man!” Yun Che couldn’t help but to exclaim, and at the same time silently added in his heart: “Almost catching up to me.”
The moment Ye Xinghan and Ling Kun saw this man emerging, the expressions on their faces simultaneously changed… But it definitely was neither shock nor fear, and they were instead showing an expression of extreme distress. Ling Kun roared with a low voice: “F*ck! Why is it this guy!”
The moment Feng Hengkong saw the flower petal rain down as far as one’s eyes could see, he had already stared blankly for a bit. As the snow-white figure appeared amidst the flower petals, Feng Hengkong… this dignified Divine Phoenix Emperor, Sect Master of Divine Phoenix Sect, actually quivered from his entire body, as his pupils even contracted for a split second. He hastily roared: “Ximing… go… go welcome him in our stead.”
Before Feng Ximing had the chance to respond, the man’s gaze had already fell upon Feng Hengkong’s body. Instantly, his slender and curved brows stuck up on their ends even more. His fluid glance flowed, his hands covered his mouth, as he revealed an… overbearingly flirtatious smile. From his mouth, a tender and gentle voice came out: “Little Kongkong, this one has finally met you again. Not being able to meet you for a hundred years, this one has missed you to death, you know… Have you missed this one?”
………………
………………
The entire arena instantly became so quiet that a needle falling could be heard. Everyone without exception were flabbergasted, as their eyes and jaws fell to the ground.
This this this this… this person…
Just was he a man… or a woman… Or was he half man half woman… Or was he neither a man nor a woman…
This expression… this posture… these eyes and brows… this voice… and referring to themselves with third person… wait! The “Little Kongkong” he was saying… could it be…
Could it be he was calling… Phoenix Sect Master Feng Hengkong!?
Holy shit!!
Feng Hengkong was already about to find a place to hastily hide himself, but a “Little Kongkong” dropped out of the sky. This made the Phoenix Sect Master, who didn’t have a change of expression under Ye Xinghan’s insolence, shiver from his entire body, his expressions convulsing as he nearly sprayed out a mouthful of old blood on the spot.
Feng Ximing hastily greeted up with great anxiety, as he spoke in a respectful manner: “Junior Divine Phoenix Prince, Feng Ximing, greets… Senior Ji. Welcome to the Divine Phoenix Empire, Senior Ji, your seat has already been prepared. I respectfully ask Senior Ji to enter the seats.”
“Yah!” Ji Qianrou’s coquettish eyes as if waves of water, measuring up Feng Ximing from head to toe. That gaze as gentle as water, made Feng Ximing’s entire body feel numb. With his waist swinging, he walked toward Feng Zhiming with extreme amorousity, as he began to giggle tenderly: “So it was actually Little Mingming, no wonder you are so handsome, almost catching up to my Little Kongkong. When this one saw you last, you were still a two or three years old little baby. In the blink of an eye, you’ve actually grown so much. Come, let this one feel you up, and see if you’ve gotten more robust.”
As Ji Qianrou walked, his soft waist turned like a dancing water snake, the two halves of his hips swung left and right. If he was a woman, that definitely must be a scenery that made one unable to take their eyes away, and even sprout out blood…
But now, all the men only felt their stomach turning.
This was someone of the Sacred Grounds?
Was this really someone of the Sacred Grounds!?
Before Feng Ximing was even able to regain his senses, his hand was already taken up by Ji Qianrou and gently stroked in his palms: “Little Mingming’s skin really is so smooth, this one likes the feeling of smooth skin the most. Little Mingming needs to keep maintaining this, okay…”
As if just waking up from a dream, Feng Ximing retracted his hand like a lightning bolt. His body retreated non-stop, as he felt his heart cramping and a thick layer of goosebumps rose up on his entire body… Especially the hand that was touched by Ji Qianrou; it was simply like tens of millions of ants were crawling on it, causing him to wish dearly that he could immediately chop his entire hand off.
He finally understood why his royal father who did not dread heaven and earth would reveal a terrified expression the moment he heard the name “Ji Qianrou”, lest that he was unable to hide in time. Cold sweat drenched his forehead, as he said in an extremely sorry state: “S-S-Se-Senior Ji, the Ranking Tournament is a-a-a-about to start, I ask Senior Ji to e-enter the seats.”
Such a simple sentence, Feng Ximing couldn’t help but to speak it stutteringly and with incoherence. Ji Qianrou kneaded his fingers, as he said flirtatiously: “Little Mingming, what are you being so hurried for. This one hasn’t given Little Kongkong a deeply affectionate hug… Little Kongkong, this one has already come, why aren’t you rushing up yet? Could it be in these hundred years, you didn’t miss this one at all?”
Feng Hengkong’s entire body trembled, as his neck even grew thicker by two sizes from stifling himself. He finally couldn’t endure any longer, and roared angrily: “Ji Qianrou! If you dare to babble nonsense like this again, We… We… We will throw you out!”
To be able to make the dignified Phoenix Sect Master lose his control and act up under the eyes of everyone, Ji Qianrou was probably the only one in Profound Sky Continent who could.
Facing the berserk Feng Hengkong, not only did Ji Qianrou not panic at all, he instead laughed tenderly again: “Hehehehe, you are shy again. Little Kongkong really hasn’t changed from before. Alright alright, this one will just comply with you. After this Ranking Tournament is finished, you’ll have to properly treat this one to drink, okay… Little Mingming can also come too~.”
After he finished speaking, with a twist of his waist, Ji Qianrou walked toward his seat gracefully and delicately.
Feng Hengkong: “~!#$%…”
Feng Hengkong sat down at once, his forehead fully covered with cold sweat. At this time, he suddenly felt the Feng Xue’er on his side was currently looking at him with an extremely strange gaze. His eyes stared wide, his expression instantly became somewhat frantic, as hastily explained: “Xue’er, it’s definitely not what you think. That Ji Qianrou, he’s just a lunatic, Xue’er does not need to mind him.”
“I know, royal father.” Feng Xue’er nodded, then began to lightly laugh: “Little Kongkong… Hehe, so royal father’s name can actually be so cute too.”
Feng Hengkong: “￥x%$#(/^%$##$%〇+#…”
“So… this is the rumored witch… ah no, transvestite?” Feng Zhanyun almost fell onto his knees. Their Divine Phoenix Sect’s Sect Master, was actually teased by a man to the point of going mad on the spot… He felt that his outlook of the world was nearly crumbling.
“This person… isn’t simple.” Propping his chin, Yun Che muttered as if deep in thought.
“Jasmine, what is this person’s cultivation?”
“Late stage Tyrant Profound… A high level Tyrant to the letter! Also the kind of level that you absolutely cannot offend!” Jasmine said indifferently.
Supreme Ocean Palace’s seat was precisely to the right side of Sun Moon Divine Hall. After Ji Qianrou sat down, the Ye Xinghan and Ling Kun to the side were both sitting upright and still; let alone greeting with words, it was like they hadn’t seen him at all. Ji Qianrou voluntarily moved closer, and said full of tender feelings: “Little Hanhan, we haven’t met in so many years, this one has missed you to death, you know. Have you missed this one?”
Ye Qinghan’s face convulsed, his chest undulated, as he stiffly forced out two words from the gap between his teeth: “Shut up!”
“Hmph!” Facing Ye Xinghan’s rough manner, Ji Qianrou spat, and poutingly turned his head away: “So nasty, all of you stinky men are the same, each one more unfeeling and heartless than the previous. This one can’t be bothered with you, hmph!”
The muscle on Ye Qinghan’s face spasmed to a great extent, but he finally let out a big breath of relief. But right away, this Ji Qianrou who claimed that he “can’t be bother with you” once again moved closer with the tenderness of soft water.
“Little Hanhan, do you really not want to pay me attention anymore? In these years, this one really has missed you, y’know.”
“Look, the current Little Kongkong is much more mature than a hundred years ago, and has a more manly feeling… He really is too enchanting. Compared to this kind of little fresh meat like Little Hanhan, as expected, this one still likes Little Kongkong’s type the most.”
“Aya, Little Hanhan, why have the women beside you grown more and more lacking. Look at this skin, so rough, much more lackluster compared to this one’s.”
“Little Hanhan…”
That tender and sweet voice made Ye Xinghan’s heart spasm, his limbs convulse, his meridians twitch… His entire body was spasming, simply in a living hell. If not for the fact that he couldn’t beat Ji Qianrou, and was also unwilling to conflict with this monster who could dismember someone’s corpse with a sweet smile, he really wanted to rip his head off and stick it up his ass.
“Elder Ling…” Ye Xinghan said gnawing his teeth: “Three pieces of Purple Veined Heaven Crystals… switch seats with this Young Master!”
A row of cold sweat instantly dripped down Ling Kun’s forehead, as he said hastily: “This… this… cough cough, this isn’t a problem of Heaven Crystals or Divine Crystals. This old man is already old, can’t bear too much hardships, and still want to live a few years longer…””
Ye Xinghan: “…”
Author’s Note: 【After writing this chapter, my stomach suddenly felt inexplicably uncomfortable. Let this one go release and mediate a little…】
Chapter 428 - Change of Match Schedule
The starting time of the ranking tournament had already arrived, yet Absolute Monarch Sanctuary’s seat was still empty. Feng Hengkong did not declare the start of the Ranking Tournament here and now, and instead stared at the sky above… If the other three Sacred Grounds came late, he could choose to not wait, but for Absolute Monarch Sanctuary, he had to wait.
Without making Feng Hengkong wait for too long, an aged yet peaceful voice, distantly came from the skies above.
“Sigh… This Gu has come late due to affairs that had to be taken care of, and has made everyone wait for a long time. I’m ashamed, extremely ashamed.”
The voice was illusory and lingering, as if it came from the end of the horizon. At the same time, a gentle yet boundless aura descended from the sky, enveloping the entire arena. This aura that was rich and dense to the extreme, made one instantly think of the ocean, the cosmos, the abyss… Endlessly vast, majestic without limit.
“Monarch!” In Yun Che’s mind, Jasmine’s voice that carried a slight hint of surprise came.
Yun Che’s mind instantly shook.
Monarch!? The person who has come, was a Monarch!?
Sacred Ground letting a Young Hall Master come, was already extremely unusual… But why would they actually send a Monarch!
In the Profound Sky Continent, Divine Profound Realm was a myth-like existence, rumored to be an illusory realm that humans simply could not reach. Sovereign Profound Realm, was then the highest peak of this world; a Monarch, was fully deserving as the greatest sovereign ruler in the entire Profound Sky Continent! And Monarchs, also only exist within the Sacred Grounds and Divine Phoenix Empire. Even in the Sacred Grounds and Divine Phoenix Empire, they were exceedingly rare.
At this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, Yun Che could be considered as having finally widened his horizon at last. Even though they belonged to the same continent, Divine Phoenix Empire and Blue Wind Empire were like two entirely different worlds. At Blue Wind Nation, Thrones were already the limit that could not be surpassed. But here, Thrones were all over the place, Overlords ran amok, and now even a Monarch had actually appeared!
A silhouette also slowly floated down from above. This was an elderly man in a light yellow robe with a horsetail whisk in hand. With white hair and brows, the air and disposition of a celestial, his face gentle, as though a taoist celestial who was about to ascend to the heavens.
When the other three Sacred Ground’s people came, Feng Hengkong only stood up to greet. But this time, Feng Hengkong directly left his seat, and greeted forward with hurried steps. Behind him, Feng Feiyan and the crowd of elders also left their seats and followed in succession.
Feng Hengkong came before the elderly man with quick steps, and said as he saluted respectfully: “Junior Feng Hengkong of Divine Phoenix Sect, greets Spiritual Master Gu Cang.”
Of the Four Great Sacred Grounds, Absolute Monarch was head. While the elderly man before him, was a being of Grand Elder rank at Absolute Monarch Sanctuary. Even the Saint Emperor would need to pay him some respect. And since always, the interactions and communication between Divine Phoenix Sect and Absolute Monarch Sanctuary had been the closest. Even though it wasn’t apparent, Divine Phoenix Sect indeed always had the intention to huddle close with the Absolute Monarch Sanctuary,
Spiritual Master Gu Cang didn’t have the slightest imposing manner nor arrogance as a Grand Elder of a Sacred Ground. With a swing of his horsetail brush, he returned a salutations and said while laughing: “This Gu has arrived late for reasons, I have truly committed offense, and I hope Phoenix Sect Master is magnanimous in forgiveness.”
Feng Hengkong said: “What are you saying, Spiritual Master Gucang. Your elderly grace coming personally, is already the greatest honor of our Divine Phoenix Sect… Oh? Junior recalls that Spiritual Master Gu Cang ought to have brought a disciple along, why is it that…”
“Haha.” Spiritual Master Gu Cang laughed lightly: “This Gu indeed had come bringing a disciple, only for him to witness the Ranking Tournament and explore within the Primordial Profound Ark to learn through experience. I hadn’t expected, that he had a chance encounter with an acquainted person of olden days in this Divine Phoenix City, so he rushed this old man to come by myself, hahahaha.”
“So that’s how it was. To able to be taken in by Spiritual Master Gu Cang as the last disciple, your honored disciple must possess an extraordinary aptitude. Spiritual Master Gu Cang, please.” Feng Hengkong extended his hand, gesturing at Absolute Monarch Sanctuary’s seat.
As Gu Cang entered his seat, Ling Kun, Ye Xinghan and even Ji Qianrou all stood up, and respectfully conducted a rite for juniors toward seniors in dead seriousness. This action, invoked Yun Che’s thoughts. Spiritual Master Gu Cang’s status at Absolute Monarch Sanctuary, could be somewhat deduced from this.
Everyone of the Four Great Sacred Grounds were also all present now, as the site had also become entirely silent. It was finally time for this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament to begin.
Following a meaningful glance from Feng Hengkong, the Great Phoenix Elder Feng Feiyan took off into the air, and flew until he reached the arena’s center. An awe-inspiring and resonate phoenix cry exuded from his body. Following that, flames that surged to the skies explosively burned up, and shot up to until over one hundred meters in height, making everyone’s gaze fixedly focus onto him without exception.
Feng Feiyan looked in all four directions, as he spoke in a loud and clear voice: “This humble one is Divine Phoenix Sect’s Head Elder, Feng Feiyan, and it is an honor to meet heroes and young geniuses from all over the world. I represent Divine Phoenix Sect, and I thank all of the friends from faraway lands for visiting Phoenix City. This session, is the thirty-ninth session Ranking Tournament of our Profound Sky Seven Nations, and will be hosted in its entirety by I, Feng Feiyan, and witnessed by the honored guests of the Four Sacred Grounds! Held once every twenty five years, the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, is a battle for our Profound Sky Seven Nations’ young prodigies to contest in profound strength, spread their name through Profound Sky, and promote the prestige of their nations…”
“Wah! It’s actually personally hosted by the Great Elder. Hm? That’s odd! Why would it be hosted by Great Elder?” Feng Zhanyun said with a suprised expression. Clearly, he didn’t know that Great Elder would personally host this Ranking Tournament beforehand. Even if someone told him beforehand, he probably wouldn’t have believed it. Because in the past, the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was at most hosted by a low rank Elder.
“Could it be that there is something special about this Ranking Tournament?” Feng Zhanyun said in a low voice.
Other than the Grand Generations and Princess Snow, Feng Feiyan’s status in Divine Phoenix Sect, was almost second to only Feng Hengkong. Even Crown Prince Feng Ximing, would need to act very respectfully in front of him. Letting him personally be the host of this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, made even the few from the Sacred Grounds revealed slight surprise. The audiences in the seating area more so held their breaths, and looked at Feng Feiyan in an respectful and admiring manner. The voice resounding beside their ears, every word was thunderous.
The Great Elder personally as host, was an entirely different concept from normal elders or palace masters as host. Everyone had faintly noticed something odd from within. Sure enough, after Feng Feiyan finished reading the formal speech, hs suddenly looked up as his finger pointed toward the sky above: “Everyone please look up. That’s right, this enormous shadow blotting out the sky and sun, is precisely that Primordial Profound Ark which appears every three hundred years which harbors unknown mysteries!”
“The Primordial Profound Ark had always appeared at my Divine Phoenix City’s skies, and throughout history, only us Divine Phoenix Empire possessed the right of exploration as well. But this time, Sect Master’s heart is generous and broad, and is willing to scale the Primordial Profound Ark with friends of the six nations, and share the mysteries of Primordial Profound Ark. In this session’s Ranking Tournament, the top three in rankings may choose three people each to explore the Primordial Profound Ark together.
Even though it was top three in rankings, everyone knew that the first would unquestionably be Divine Phoenix Sect. Therefore, people of the six nations with the fortune to enter the Primordial Profound Ark, would at most be six people from two nations.
“However,” Feng Feiyan’s tone suddenly shifted, as he said: “Just a few days ago, my sect suddenly noticed that the profound seal at Primordial Profound Ark’s main doorway had actually loosened ahead of time, which also means that the Profound Ark’s main doorway would open four days earlier than expected!”
“Hm?” The brows of all of the people from Sacred Grounds shifted.
“Four days in advance? Which is to say, Primordial Profound Ark will open as soon as tomorrow?” Ye Xinghan said in a low voice.
“That should be so… No wonder this Feng Feiyan was made to personally host this Ranking Tournament. There was indeed unforeseen matter.” Ling Kun also spoke in a low voice: “If my guesses are correct, this Ranking Tournament, will be concluded as soon as possible.”
Feng Feiyan continued: “My sect had initially planned to start to explore the Primordial Profound Ark on the second day after Ranking Tournament’s conclusion, yet this time, the Primordial Profound Ark will open tomorrow in advance! The Primordial Profound Ark would only open for twenty four hours every single time. Twenty four hours in an entire three hundred years, naturally, no time can be wasted! But the words spoken by my Divine Phoenix Sect, are of enormous weight, and we will absolutely not go back on them. Therefore, in order to explore the Primordial Profound Ark tomorrow in collaboration, this session of Ranking Tournament’s match schedule, will also undoubtedly be compressed to a great degree… The top three, would need to be decided by today!”
Clamor~~~~
The moment Feng Feiyan’s words were spoken, the entire arena became turbulent. They all understood the words, the Primordial Profound Ark would open ahead of time… And at the same time, this session of Ranking Tournament would be compressed into a single day… Which meant that it was to be concluded today!
The match schedule would at least last for five days for every Ranking Tournament in the past, without any exception. Between the contending seventy tip-top young experts coming from the seven nations, every single round would need to be fought in round robin. Previously, even five days of matches would be scheduled fully, and situations of the tournament’s schedule extension would often happen. In the time as short as a day, it simply could not be done.
The expressions of those participants, as well as each nation’s Emperor and hegemons all changed greatly… Seven Nation Ranking tournament was a great matter of an entire country; the results of the rankings, were connected to the position and prestige of the next twenty five years of a nation. For this Ranking Tournament, every single nation could prepare with all their might several years ahead of time, and rare treasures accumulated for over twenty years would all be used without being stingy in the least… For those young participants, this Ranking Tournament was more so the highest stage for them to perform, the greatest chance to spread their name throughout the world! If the previously five days of match schedule were really to be condensed into a day… The time for them to perform, would unquestionably be compressed by an entire eighty percent!
This kind of discrepancy, how could they be willing and satisfied?
And the spectators numbering more than three million who obtained the qualification to enter the arena through great pain, they originally would have enjoyed an entire five days of the pinnacle’s battle, yet all of a sudden only one day was left, they naturally were extremely unthrilled as well.
“No wonder the Great Elder was needed to personally host.” Yun Che muttered to himself in a low voice: “So it was to suppress the situation that may possibly happen with the awe of the Great Elder. If the match schedule is shrunk down to one day…” As he muttered till here, his brows suddenly twitched as a feeling that was anything but reassuring emerged in his heart.
The clamor suddenly exploding in the arena was entirely within Divine Phoenix Sect’s expectations. Feng Feiyan’s expression did not change, as his voice abruptly became louder by some: “Even though the match schedule is forced to be compressed, there is no need for anyone to worry. This Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, would still be absolutely fair and square! So much that… it would be even more fair and square than the previous few dozen sessions! It will determine the ranking of strength of us Profound Sky Seven Nations in even less bias!”
Feng Feiyan’s words, made everyone reveal a stupefied expression… The match schedule being compressed from five days to one, yet it would be more fair?
Feng Feiyan continued: “The former sessions of Seven Nation Ranking Tournaments, seventy young prodigies battled in turns, contending against one another, and the end rankings were decided by the highest placement of each nation’s contenders. However, this kind of ranking style emphasizes the strength of apex profound practitioners. But in actuality, what could manifest a nation’s strength the most ought to be the overall strength of a nation’s participants. Thus, this session of Ranking Tournament, would cancel the individual matches, and change into team battles! In every single ranking match, every single profound practitioners of the two sides must all enter the stage!”
The arena was instantly filled with the sound of discussions, ceaselessly clamorous. Yun Che’s eyes stared wide, as he fixedly stared at Feng Feiyan whose expression was cold and stiff, and violently cursed:
F*ck!!
Chapter 429 - Seven Nation Ranking Tournament: Start
Feng Feiyan ignored the clamor and continued: “Even though it is a team battle, it would still similarly be able to display every single person’s strength! While also being able to fairly examine a nation’s young generation’s comprehensive level! At the same time, it would also adhere to the condition of compressing the competition schedule to a maximum degree, without missing any bit of fairness! If we do it thusly, do our friends from the six nations have any objections? If there are any objections, feel free to speak up.”
Feng Feiyan faced the six nations… Accurately speaking, he faced the seating area of the five nations with a blank face and calm voice.
If they were confronted with such a drastic change of schedule, if the one before their eyes was a mere ordinary elder from Divine Phoenix Sect, as emperor and hegemon level figures of the six nations, they might indeed object.
But currently, the person talking to them was actually Divine Phoenix Sect’s Great Elder! One whose rank was higher than a Divine Phoenix Prince! Even if all six nation’s emperors were added up together, his might, power, and name also did not fall short. Beneath Feng Feiyan’s gaze, the six nation’s emperors and hegemons all felt as though an iron plate was pressing down on their chest, even breathing was extremely difficult. How could they possible dare to say anything? About this matter, it was evident that Divine Phoenix Sect had already one-sidedly made the decision, so how could they dare not agree? They all quickly nodded, expressing their agreement.
“Very good!” Feng Feiyan nodded: “Since our friends from the six nations don’t have any objections, then this year’s ranking tournament competition shall be conducted thusly. The rules of the team battles are basically the same as individual battles, and are similarly round robin. Every nation will battle with everyone from another nation and will advance through the ranking tournament through wins! Then, the two victorious nations will then fight one another to advance, winner will be placed in front. In order to cut down the tournament schedule and lighten the consumption of every nation’s participating profound practitioners, our Divine Phoenix Sect will not be participating in the round robin matches. The final victor of the matches will then be able to fight our Divine Phoenix Sect’s profound practitioners. If they win, they will then be this year’s champion! In this way, within the round robin matches, every nation’s profound practitioners would only be required to fight five matches, for a total of sixteen matches! One day of time, is already enough.”
Feng Feiyan’s meaning was quite clear, Divine Phoenix Sect was not participating in the round robin, and would only fight with the strongest team of the six nations. For this point, Feng Feiyan didn’t ask whether or not the six nations had any objections, because it was basically not necessary. And no one from the six nations thought that this was not proper, or feel dissatisfied, because Divine Phoenix Sect’s level was one that the six other nations were fundamentally unable to contend against. With how terrifying Divine Phoenix Sect was, even if every profound practitioner from the six nations were added up, they would still be easily suppressed into a dog by a profound practitioner from Divine Phoenix Sect.
After so many Seven Nation Ranking Tournaments, in the other nations’ eyes, they were all in fact “Five Nation Ranking Tournaments”, because Divine Phoenix was too strong and Blue Wind was too weak. Every time they fought, it was always to determine the ranking of the five nations. If they placed second, it was equivalent to placing first. And if they placed sixth, it was the same as being a shameful dead last. They absolutely did not dare have the delusion that they could defeat Divine Phoenix Empire, but at the same time, they would never condescend themselves to being on par with Blue Wind Nation.
“As for the other rules of the match, I’m assuming that there is no need for me to waste time to say what’s more than necessary…” Feng Feiyan swept his gaze around as his tranquil gaze brought along a kind of intangible imposingness… The Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was the most distinguished event for Profound Sky Continent’s profound practitioning world. Every session was paid the greatest attention to. And such an unprecedented great change in schedule that hadn’t even been informed beforehand, had actually just been decided on the spot with a few words. No one dared to object, and no one dared to reveal any discontentment.
This was Divine Phoenix Sect’s completely overwhelming deterrence.
“Eyoyo~, this one had expected to see many days of matches, and now it only need a single day to be finished… This one’s mood suddenly became so cheerful mhmnn… Little Hanhan, is your mood the same as this one?” Ji Qianrou narrowed his cherry flower eyes, and sent a flirtatious glance toward Ye Xinghan.
Ye Xinghan’s face distorted, as he said with a downcast voice: “Ji Qianrou! If you dare to speak with this young master again, this young master will kill you!”
“Yoh…” As if frightened, Ji Qianrou shrunk his neck down, and then, the expression in his gaze became both innocent and grievant from being wronged: “Little Hanhan, why would you so suddenly frightened at this one; you almost scared me stiff. If you suddenly frighten this one again, this one will get angry okay~. Once this one becomes angry, maybe he would become a little devious, and cause you to no longer have any women to play with at night~.”
With a tender and soft tone that was about to weep, Ji Qianrou shot a slight glance with timid eyes at the two bewitching women glued by Ye Xinghan left and right side. Instantly, the two’s body trembled at the same time, their pupils expanded as they projected an immensely deep fear… Because the moment they were touched by his gaze, that kind of terrifying feeling… was as though their throats were being held within the poisonous fangs of a king cobra.
“You…” Ye Xinghan knew the terror of this monster better than anyone else. Sealing up his mouth, he didn’t speak anymore.
‘I declare that Profound Sky Continent’s thirty-ninth Seven Nation Ranking Tournament has officially begun!”
Feng Feiyan’s voice resounded through the arena, and also declared the start of this session’s Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. With a swing of his arm, a stroke of firelight flickered past. Instantly, an enormous flame profound stone was erected in the center of the arena. Looking at this profound stone, Yun Che who had the experience of Blue Wind Ranking Tournament, instantly understood what it was used for.
Yun Che extended his arms, and glanced at his palm. One after another of sceneries at Heavenly Sword Villa back then emerged in his mind. He muttered to himself in resentment: “Looks like, I’ll be mocked by the crowd again! God damn, my fate was decided to be mocked at by crowds again and again from the moment I was born!”
In every single session’s Blue Wind Ranking Tournament, the profound strength assessment would always be an essential process. Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was the same. Half of the Profound Strength Assessment was to show off every single participant’s profound strength level… After all, profound strength level basically divided one’s true strength. The other half, was to assess one’s age.
“In all previous sessions of Ranking Tournaments, the participating profound practitioner’s age cannot be more than twenty five years old. If there are cases of excess age, the right to participate will be immediately taken back.” Feng Feiyan slowly descended from the skies, landed by the Profound Assessment Stone’s side, and said in a loud voice: “Right now, I will be using the last session of Seven Nation Ranking Tournament’s ranking results as order, and read out the name of the Seven Nations. Every nation’s participants ought to enter the Phoenix Stage with the participant emblem, declare their names, then take the assessment on profound strength and age.
“Navy Tide Nation!”
Feng Feiyan said that the ranking of the last Seven Nation Ranking Tournament’s placements were to be announced as order, but the first name he called, was the second place nation in the last session. On the surface, this may seem to be modestly putting Divine Phoenix Sect as the last one to enter the stage appropriate of a host. But the unspoken words, how couldn’t it be that Divine Phoenix Empire was entirely disdainful in being mentioned on equal terms as the other six nations?
In the last Ranking Tournament, Navy Tide placed second, first of the six nations. The moment the three words ‘Navy Tide Nation’ fell, a ball of cold profound light suddenly shone at Navy Tide Nation’s seating area, and drew two enormous words of “Navy Tide” in the skies above. Seven young men and three young women simultaneously took off into the air, and landed onto the Phoenix Stage in the time the corner of their clothes fluttered. Instantly, a wave of cold energy undulated outwards like water ripples from above the Phoenix Stage.
Navy Tide Nation was located to the extreme north of Profound Sky, with cold skies and frozen lands all years round. And because of that, the profound practitioners over there basically all cultivate ice attribute profound arts. Of the ten youths, the oldest looked to be around twenty five, the youngest looked to have just reached twenty. The moment they entered the stage, the audiences behind the Navy Tide’s seating area instantly exploded like hot oil on a pan, roaring out waves of voices that shook the heaven and earth.
“Navy Tide! Navy Tide! Navy Tide!!”
“Go Navy Tide! Crush the five nations!!”
“Wah! That’s the ‘Flower Viewing Prince’, Han Ruyu! Number one of Navy Tide Ranking Tournament for two times… As expected, he came!”
“Waaaaaaah… It’s Flower Viewing Prince… my idol… Ah!! So handsome! I’m about to faint…” A few maniacally infatuated girls screams while covering their face.
The enormous waves of clamor were like the rolling thunder, quaking to the point of making Yun Che’s eardrums quiver. Jasmine’s voice came from the side of his ear: “Seven late stage Sky Profound, and two half-step Emperor Profound… And one early stage Emperor Profound. Similarly of the same younger generation and in the same piece of continent, in comparison, Blue Wind Nation really is much too inferior!”
“That’s something that can not be helped either.” Yun Che said with indifference: “Blue Wind Nation is the smallest, and also has the shortest history. Their accumulation is truly too shallow, so naturally there would be an enormous difference that cannot be filled up.”
“Feng Wuhui of Navy Tide Nation’s Snow Mountain Sect, has come forth to contend!”
The first young profound practitioner came forth, revealed his participant emblem while revealing his name and sect in a lofty manner. Then, he took a step forward, stood in front of Feng Feiyan, and pressed onto the Profound Assessment Stone with his palm.
The Profound Assessment Stone flashed with a radiance, and following after, his physical age and profound strength were clearly displayed.
Twenty three years old, Sky Profound Realm level eight.
The audiences of Navy Tide Nation instantly uttered out a cheer that jolted the skies. Being able to achieve such a profound strength level was above average even in the most apex domain of the six nations.
Navy Tide Nation’s profound practitioners came forth in succession, their profound strength level wasn’t in the slightest different than what Jasmine had said… Seven late stage Sky Profounds, and two half-step Emperor Profounds. And at this time, the last profound practitioner of Navy Tide finally came forward.
The other nine profound practitioners all had lofty faces, only this person had on a calm expression from beginning to end, with a smile faintly hidden within. He looked to be extraordinarily young; his face was like white jade, his lips like vermilion cinnabar, and was a to-the-letter handsome man. In between his brows, there even carried a hint of eccentric aura enough to make women easily drown within it. He walked forward slowly and leisurely as if wandering in a yard. As he took his first step, Navy Tide’s audience seats had already thoroughly exploded. Various kinds of exaggerated shouts… Especially the screams from women, nearly ripped apart the Phoenix Stage.
“Flower Viewing Prince? The hell is that?” Yun Che propped his chin as he heard such a title from the female’s screams… This title, was simply conventional and lame to the point of being unbearable.
“This person is called Han Ruyu, rumored to be the current number one of Navy Tide’s younger generation. Attending Navy Tide Ranking Tournament twice at age of seventeen and twenty, he got first in both times. His prestige at Navy Tide Nation could be said as the sun in the sky, and even Navy Tide Nation’s ruler receives him as guest of highest honor… Heh, even to the point where I had heard of his name.” Feng Zhanyun curled the corner of his lips, as he said with great disdain: “He’s quite awe-inspiring at Navy Tide Nation, but if he comes to my Divine Phoenix Sect, he’d only be so much, and probably can’t be considered as reaching the average.”
With a smile on his face, Han Ruyu extended his white jade like hand and pressed onto the Assessment Stone…
Twenty three years old, Emperor Profound Realm level two!
WHOAAA!!!
The audiences of Navy Tide Nation went completely mad as the sounds of cheers turned from raging waves into the profound thunder of the ninth heaven, while the faces of other five nation’s profound practitioners all slightly changed.
“What… This time, Navy Tide Nation actually had a Throne!?”
“I had thought that our Throne this time would certainly shock the entire arena, but I didn’t expect that one would actually also appear in Navy Tide Nation! Looks like, if we go against Navy Tide Nation this time, it will be a tough battle again. However, we don’t have any reason to lose either!” Black Fiend Nation’s Emperor spoke in a overcast tone.
“Not bad!” Feng Hengkong, who had always been silent, nodded at this time: “Seems like this time, Navy Tide Nation finally improved by a bit.”
“Holy shit! He’s actually a Throne… Moreover, Emperor Profound Realm level two!” Feng Zhanyun had astonishment all over his face: “Thrones under twenty five years old could actually also appear in the insignificant six nations, tsk tsk, amazing, how rare. This kid called Han Ruyu, not just Navy Tide this time, he has spread his name throughout the six nations. The second place of this Ranking Tournament, may perhaps end up in Navy Tide Nation’s hands yet again.”
“Black Fiend Nation!”
Navy Tide Nation’s profound practitioners were done, yet they didn’t return to their seats, and instead directly entered Phoenix Stage’s exclusive match preparation area. Feng Feiyan’s shout once again sounded, as ten young profound practitioners, all wearing black attire, jumped onto the Phoenix Stage… This time, Black Fiend Nation’s audiences instantly exploded; the sound of screams they exuded wasn’t any weaker than Blue Tide Nation’s in the slightest.
“Wu Huihong of Black Fiend Nation’s Yin Hell Sect has come forth to contend!”
“Lü Haoyan of Black Fiend Nation’s Purple Fiend Isle has come forth to contend!”
…………
Navy Tide Nation, Black Fiend Nation, Grand Asura Nation, Sunflower Dew Nation, Divine Incense Nation… The five nations of Profound Sky went up the Phoenix Stage in the order of the last Seven Nation Ranking Tournament’s placements. In fifteen minutes of time, all of the five nation’s profound practitioners were finished with their assessment, and entered the match preparation area. What was left, were only the two extremes… Divine Phoenix Empire and Blue Wind Nation.
————————————
Author’s Note:
【Memo： Elementary Profound Realm —→ Nascent Profound Realm —→ True Profound Realm —→ Spirit Profound Realm —→ Earth Profound Realm —→ Sky Profound Realm —→ Emperor Profound Realm (Throne) —→ Tyrant Profound Realm (Overlord) —→ Sovereign Profound Realm (Monarch) —→ Divine Profound Realm (Profound God) —→—→—→—→—→。】
Chapter 430 - Group Mockery
Yun Che carefully looked at the ages and profound strength of the five nations’ young generation’s profound practitioners, then sighed in his heart. At this time, he was increasingly more and more aware of how great of a matter the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament was, and why no one in Blue Wind Nation ever bothered to mention, or even be interested in it. It was practically a disgraceful taboo. From beginning to end, even though the combined strength of Navy Tide, Black Fiend, Grand Asura, Sunflower Dew, and Divine Incense’s profound practitioners were somewhat varied, the difference wasn’t too large. The previous ranking tournament’s number two, Navy Tide, had come with an early stage Throne, two half step Emperor Profounds, and seven late stage Sky Profounds this time. As for Divine Incense Nation, which had been placed only above Blue Wind in the previous session’s ranking tournament, last place of the five nations, they had brought a half step Emperor Profound, eight late stage Sky Profounds, and a mid stage Sky Profound… That kind of disparity truly couldn’t be said to be large at all. As long as luck was on their side, there was a possibility for any nation to place second in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament.
In comparison, only Blue Wind Nation was tragic beyond words.
Aside from Xia Qingyue, within Blue Wind Nation’s profound practitioners that were under twenty five years of age, not even an early stage Sky Profound Realm could be found.
Half step Emperor Profound was merely the peak of the those below twenty five years of age within the five nations, yet it was the peak of Blue Wind Nation’s entire profound practitioning world.
In fact, Navy Tide Nation and Black Fiend Nation had even individually brought out a Throne below twenty five!
What remained after the five nations, were Blue Wind Nation and Divine Phoenix Nation. Feng Feiyan swept a glance past the seating area, then said indifferently: “As everyone can see, it is not known why, but Blue Wind Nation is absent from this session’s Ranking Tournament, with not even a single sound of activity. Hmph, Blue Wind isn’t great in the profound anyway, so whether or not they participate in this ranking tournament has absolutely no influence on the results of the rankings. Instead, this will cut down the matches, which is better than ever.”
The seating area immediately burst into roars of laughter, everyone knew what sort of pitifully low and miserable existence Blue Wind Nation was within this Seven Nation Ranking Tournament. The other six nations came to battle for prestige and glory, yet Blue Wind Nation… only came every time to fill in the Seven Nation number. And to this session, it seemed as though they didn’t even have the courage and face to server as a stopgap anymore.
Inside the arena, there were few Blue Wind citizens, but it didn’t mean that there were none. The words that came from the Great Phoenix Elder completely humiliated them. But they could only tighten their fists, clench their teeth, and silently endure this humiliation with no face to speak out.
“Tsk tsk, Blue Wind kid, there’s still time for you to press your tail between your legs and run away. With just that measly strength of yours, if you really were to go up… and you’re even going up there alone, let alone losing face, you’ll even lose your butt… hey! Shit!”
Before Feng Zhanyun had even finished speaking, the Yun Che beside him had already leapt up. After a few leaps, he directly dashed toward the Phoenix Stage.
“Wait! Who said Blue Wind Nation had no participants!!”
A thunderclap-like shout resounded through the arena. When the shout ended, Yun Che had already executed his last jump. Within everyone’s astonished gaze, he heavily landed on the Phoenix Stage as the ground beneath him vibrated with noise. He looked at Feng Feiyan with a calm yet proud expression and lifted his right hand to reveal the participant emblem imprinted with the words “Blue Wind”: “Yun Che of Blue Wind Nation has come forth to contend!”
“Ah!”
Feng Xue’er involuntarily let out a soft cry.
“Xue’er, what’s wrong?” Feng Hengkong turned his head around lightning quick, as he asked in astonishment.
“N… nothing.” Feng Xue’er shook her head, her voice slightly quivering: “It’s just that I was thinking about something earlier, and was somewhat absent-minded, then suddenly saw someone jump onto the Phoenix Stage… I was a bit startled… It’s really nothing.”
Even though Feng Hengkong still had some doubts, he didn’t inquire any further. At this time, Feng Xichen, who sat in the rear suddenly stood up, and suddenly exclaimed: “Royal father, that’s him… he’s that Yun Che!”
“He actually came.” Feng Ximing said lowly: “Looks like he still is a bit knowledgeable, since he knows that no matter where he runs, he’ll never be able to escape the palms of our hands.”
“That’s him?” Feng Hengkong’s gaze slightly converged as he said faintly: “Him daring to come here today can be considered to be a bit courageous. Don’t mind him, or else it’ll affect the ranking tournament. Since he came, he shouldn’t have the delusion of ever escaping.”
Feng Xue’er quietly listened in on their conversation, her mind a field of chaos.
Feng Lingyun…
Yun Che…
Big brother Yun… is Yun Che…
Not Feng Lingyun…
How… could this… be…
“Crap! How could it be him!!”
In a corner of the spectator seats, an extremely unremarkable person quivered a little with a face full of surprise when he saw Yun Che hop onto the Phoenix Stage. As soon as he finished exclaiming in his heart, a youth sitting to his right who looked to be around seventeen stood up rapidly with a swoosh. He was so excited that his entire face was thoroughly red, both arms trembled as he shouted: “Boss! As expected, you came. I just knew that you’ll come!! I didn’t come here in vain… I just knew that you wouldn’t not come!”
Seeing how this youth acted, excited to the point that he almost stopped breathing, he nudged the youth’s clothes and asked: “Hey, lil’ bro, you know this person? Could it be that you’re someone from Blue Wind Nation?”
“If course I know him!” That youth said with a face full of excitement: “He’s my boss, you know! The reason why I came here from so far away is just to watch his match!”
“He’s your boss? Shit, such a coincidence! He’s also my sworn big brother! The reason why I came here… uh, uh. Oh oh, it’s also to come watch his match!”
“Is that true?” The youth asked as he looked at him with a face full of suspicion.
“What’s your name?”
“Ling Jie! Ling Jie of Blue Wind Nation’s Heavenly Sword Villa!” The youth said with pride.
“Ling Jie? Who’s Ling Yun to you?”
“That’s my big bro… How do you know my big bro’s name?”
“Of course it was mentioned to me by Boss Yun.”
“You really know my boss? What a coincidence! Right, what’s your name? Which nation are you from?”
“Oh, my name’s Yan Xiaohua, no home no country. I can tell at the first glance that I’m older than you. You can call me Big Bro Hua, Boss Hua, Old Hua… Any is fine!”
“Yan Xiaohua? Why do you have such a feminine name!”
“Of course it’s because I’m born handsome and elegant, so my name gotta be a bit elegant too. At least it’s much better than your name without any skill involved.”
“Tch!”
Yun Che’s appearance, undoubtedly became the entire arena’s focal point. When the five nation’s profound practitioners entered the stage previously, what had sounded were heaven shaking cheers. But this time, it was the entire arena’s discussions and laughter… Cheers were the only thing lacking.
“The other participants all came flying over, yet he actually came leaping over… it couldn’t be that he hasn’t even reached the Sky Profound Realm, right?”
“You dumbass! He’s from Blue Wind Nation. Tsk tsk, Blue Wind Nation, you know. Don’t tell me that you’ve heard of someone below twenty five in Blue Wind Nation above the Sky Profound? This kind is at most in the Earth Profound Realm… I remember in the previous Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, that the highest level within Blue Wind Nation’s participants was also Earth Profound Realm… In fact, they even had those in the Spirit Profound Realm, hahahaha. It makes me laugh whenever I recall that.”
“Wah! Someone from Blue Wind Nation actually came? Divine Phoenix Sect didn’t even prepare Blue Wind Nation’s seats. Clearly, they didn’t even think that someone from Blue Wind Nation would come, yet this guy actually went up there by himself… Tsk tsk, profound strength at only the Earth Profound Realm. He’s not even at my level, is he that desperate to lose all his face?!”
“You must not know this. In Blue Wind Nation, being at the Earth Profound Realm under twenty five in Blue Wind Nation is already the highest existence. I heard that the instructors in their imperial family’s profound palace is only Spirit Profound Realm. Earth Profound Realms could even be a Palace Chief at a branch Profound Palace.”
“Shit! You serious? Then wouldn’t I become a main branch Palace Chief if I go there? Hahahaha… eh? How come only one person came up? Don’t tell me that Blue Wind Nation only brought one person?”
“Hahahaha… It’s simply funny enough to make one’s head fall off from laughing. Even if Blue Wind Nation came here, they should at least bring ten people, after all, the matches this time just happen to be team battles… This daddy’s gonna die from laughter.”
“It’s still good if they’ve come. With Blue Wind Nation here, this last place can’t be snatched by anyone.”
………………
………………
Inside the incomparably large arena, every corner was filled with the sounds of wanton laughter and ridicule. In front of one that was only at the Earth Profound Realm, yet was able to represent Blue Wind Nation in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, a kind of intangible “higher” form of superiority birthed within the hearts of every profound practitioner of the six nations. One after another, they looked at him with a kind of amused, pitying, and mocking gaze… so much that it seemed as though Yun Che was on trial.
Yun Che was too familiar with this kind of scene. Back then, in the Blue Wind Ranking Tournament when he represented Blue Wind Profound Palace, he, who had the lowest profound strength level was looked at with contempt and mockery by nearly everyone present. All kinds of voices and gazes spun all around him. It seemed as though this time was a repeat performance of what happened two years ago. Only, two years ago, all the sounds of taunting didn’t affect him in the slightest, and this time, it didn’t affect him at all either.
Within the arena, although there were very few profound practitioners from Blue Wind Nation, it didn’t mean that there were none. The reason why they came today was to watch Yun Che’s might. A month ago, when Yun Che left Blue Wind Imperial City for Divine Phoenix Empire, Cang Wanhe spread the news of Yun Che going to represent Blue Wind Nation in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament by himself to the practitioning world the very next day. He had originally told Yun Che that if Blue Wind’s profound practitioners were to know that he was going to participate in the Seven Nation Ranking Tournament, it might even suddenly ignite hope… hope that would wipe away their previous disgrace! Because Yun Che had created miracle after impossible miracles in Blue Wind Nation! He had even become a legendary figure in the hearts of Blue Wind profound practitioners.
Because if he came represent Blue Wind Nation in this competition, he would definitely amaze the world and wipe away all their previous shame!
In this one month, many Blue Wind profound practitioners were filled with hope and zeal, coming to Divine Phoenix Empire from a great distance… Even though the difference between Blue Wind profound practitioners and the other six nations within the arena was large, it was not known how many more had come compared to the previous session.
Faced with the entire audience’s laughter and mockery, those sparse and scattered Blue Wind profound practitioners looked at Yun Che. Some clenched their fists, some gritted inwardly, and some sneered, waiting for Yun Che to beat them to a pulp. Some couldn’t endure it any longer as they roared in a loud voice: “Shut the hell up! Not only is our Blue Wind Nation’s Yun Che the number one of the young generation, he’s number one of the entire profound practitioning world… Even though he is only at the Earth Profound Realm, he could still fight against an Emperor Profound!”
“Earth Profound Realm… fight an Emperor Profound? BWAHAHAHA!!” It was as if the surrounding audience heard the funniest joke in the world as they all erupted in wild laughter: “Did this kid forget to take his medicine when he left home? Earth Profound fight an Emperor Profound? Hahahahaha…”
The Blue Wind profound practitioner who spoke was so mad that his face became thoroughly red. His companion pulled him in place and shook his head: “Don’t mind them! Wait until Yun Che reveals his might, they’ll naturally all shut their mouths… Yun Che! This time… you have to seize glory for our Blue Wind in front of the entire world’s outstanding warlords!!”
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