Book One — Winds of Change Blow Over Pine Mist City

Chapter 1 - Chen Xi

Dusk fell upon Pine Mist City in the southern territory as the fiery sun set in the west.

For the thousandth time, Chen Xi pushed upon the door and entered the Zhang General
Store.

The Zhang General Store was just an ordinary, medium-sized retail store within Pine Mist
City that sold self-manufactured talisman-related products to keep itself afloat.

The merchandise that sold the most were first-grade and second-grade talismans. These
were the foundation of the Zhang General Store’s survival. While its business wasn’t great,
it benefitted from the small but steady stream of income and was barely able to establish
itself within Pine Mist City.

“Talisman paper, talisman brush, and ink; it’s impossible to craft talismans without these
three materials. It seems simple, but in reality it’s extremely complex. From today onwards,
you will all learn how to differentiate between talisman papers, the utilization of the
talisman brush, and the composition of the ink. Once you have a solid foundation, I’ll then
instruct you in talisman crafting.”

Only now did Chen Xi realize that the store had once again recruited seven or eight
talisman crafting apprentices with immature faces. Boss Zhang Dayong’s shriveled voice
echoed within the general store.

“I’ll give the lot of you a month. If your skill doesn’t satisfy me after the month is over,
then go home and play in the mud. You lot must remember that if you want to become a
qualified talisman master, studying diligently and training hard is the only way to get there,
as no one is able to easily succeed!”

The newly recruited talisman crafting apprentices had gazes that were filled with
excitement and eagerness; they were itching to have a go at talisman crafting.

“Mmm, Chen Xi, you’re here.” Zhang Dayong looked over his shoulder to see Chen Xi and
greeted him with a smile on his face.

“Uncle Zhang, these are the 30 Flamecloud Talismans for today.” Chen Xi pulled out a
stack of azure talismans and passed them over.
Zhang Dayong waved his hand in dismissal. “There’s no rush. Since you’re here, then help
me teach these little kids. These wages will be calculated separately. Hmmm, how about I
pay you 3 spirit stones per hour?”

Chen Xi nodded after pondering for brief moment. “Alright!”

30 Flamecloud Talismans could be sold for 10 spirit stones but required five hours of his
time to craft, and thus, if calculated in this manner, three spirit stones per hour was indeed
generous.

Zhang Dayong smiled before turning to look at the newly recruited talisman crafting
apprentices and said in a low voice with a serious expression, “The Dao of talisman crafting
is broad and profound, and to better assist you lot in grasping the rudiments, your senior,
Chen Xi, will demonstrate how a first-grade Flamecloud Talisman is crafted. I don't dare
speak about anything else, but if I were to speak about the solidity of one’s foundation in
talisman crafting, then no one in the entire city is more extraordinary than Chen Xi. In this
aspect, even I feel ashamed of my inferiority. You lot should look carefully and learn
properly, and be sure to not miss out on this opportunity.”

Whoosh!

Seven or eight gazes descended upon Chen Xi in unison, but when they noticed that he was
only a youth with a haggardly pale expression and was not much older than them, doubt
arose within their eyes. Is this fellow really as formidable as Uncle Zhang says?

Chen Xi remained unfazed, seemingly unable to notice the subtle changes in the
atmosphere around him as he moved forward and arrived before the talisman crafting desk.
Here he picked up the light azure talisman paper from the side and placed it flat on the desk
before lifting his brush and gently dipping it into the ink. He waved the brush in his hand in
a fluid and skillful manner as if he was moving his hand without the need to reflect.

The youths hurriedly surrounded Chen Xi when they noticed this scene.

Talisman brush in hand, Chen Xi’s disposition seemed to change as his gaze became
focused and tranquil. His wrist swayed like a snake, moving the tip of his brush in an agile
and graceful manner, rustling as it moved… Fine and elegant blackish-red lines crept across
the Talisman Paper in a natural and smooth manner, seeming to be like wisps of smoke
naturally curling into existence.

The newly recruited talisman crafting apprentices didn’t blink; they stared wide-eyed at
Chen Xi’s wrist, the talisman brush, and the talisman markings slowly coming into form on
the light azure talisman paper. A sense of shock slowly arose within their hearts as they
watched.

Talismans were divided into nine grades. The first-grade Flamecloud Talisman was merely
one of the most basic talismans, and thus it naturally was also one of the lowest level
talismans. The youths originally didn’t take Chen Xi, who seemed not much older than
them, seriously. Chen Xi’s movements were limited and repetitive, but they were filled
with a graceful and lively aesthetic combined with precise control. Even though his
movements weren’t grand, when the youths witnessed Chen Xi craft a talisman with their
own eyes, their hearts were instantly conquered by him.

Chen Xi wore a concentrated expression and was completely oblivious to what was going
on around him, not noticing the changes in the gazes from the surrounding people. Once he
started crafting a talisman, Chen Xi would immerse himself in a profound and tranquil
state, and only the fine and intricate talisman markings would remain in his eyes.

Zhang Dayong couldn’t help but laugh heartily when he saw the shocked appearances of
the youths. Not to mention these newbies, even he himself couldn’t help but feel a sense of
shock within his heart whenever he saw it with his own two eyes. It was exactly as he had
said, Chen Xi had indeed achieved an extraordinary level of skill in terms of attainment in
basic talismans.

Chen Xi controlled the brush’s tip to dot, flick, hook, stroke, and whirl with sharp and
precise force. Following the movement of Chen Xi’s Talisman Brush, a delicate and
intricate pattern slowly formed on the thin, light azure pine grain talisman paper.

The time it would take for one incense stick to burn passed.

Whoosh!

The talisman paper shone abruptly, seeming to exhale and inhale before returning to
normal.

As he laid down the talisman, Chen Xi’s entire body felt sore and uncomfortable; it seemed
like it was about to fall apart, and that haggard and handsome face of his was so pale that it
almost seemed translucent.

Before coming to the general store, Chen Xi had already crafted 30 first-grade Flamecloud
Talismans, and thus not only was his True Essence on the verge of depletion, even his
mental energy was consumed greatly. Therefore, completing this talisman utterly drained
him of his True Essence, and his mental energy was emaciated.

The newly recruited talisman crafting apprentices didn’t take note of this, however. They
instantly burst into an uproar the moment they saw Chen Xi complete a talisman with such
fluidity.

“How formidable! The speed, nimbleness, and precision with which he wielded the brush is
really shocking!”

“Wah! Senior Chen Xi successfully crafted a talisman in one go! Such a success rate can
only be described as perfect!”
“I must properly ask Senior Chen Xi for advice in the future! I must become proficient in
that brush technique!”

...

However, at precisely this moment, a sarcastic voice abruptly echoed within the store.

“Hmph, what’s so great about crafting a first-grade basic talisman? If you lot are given five
years, you’ll be able to excel in basic talisman crafting like Deadpan Chen too. Why don’t
you lot ask Deadpan Chen when he’ll be able to craft second-grade talismans? With his
level of skill, all he can do is overawe newbies like you lot.”

The person who said this was a frivolous young man who stood at the general store’s
entrance. He had a long and narrow face, a pair of large eyes filled with a sense of disdain,
and his arms were crossed over his chest. It was unknown when he arrived.

The sounds of praise instantly vanished without a trace upon hearing what the young man
said, and the originally burning gazes of reverence of the youths now contained a trace of
doubt.

He took five years to master first-grade basic talismans? What shitty natural talent!      

Deadpan Chen, ha, what a vivid nickname…. Wait, so it’s him!

The new talisman crafting apprentices were finally able to recall who Chen Xi was, and
their gazes emitted a weird sense in unison.

The name “Deadpan Chen” was known to every household within Pine Mist City, and
Chen Xi was the worthy owner of the title “no.1 jinx.”

On the day of his birth, the Chen Clan, which was originally thought of as a first-rate clan,
was annihilated by their enemies in a night. Chen Xi’s grandfather, father, and mother were
the only survivors.

When he was one year old, his grandfather was bedridden with a severe illness, which
eventually led to his grandfather losing his entire cultivation and becoming a cripple. His
family was thus forced to move into Pine Mist City’s commoner district.

When he was two, his younger brother, Chen Hao, was born, but his mother, Zuo Qiuxue,
went missing. Rumor had it that she detested the fallen Chen Clan and couldn’t bear with
such an impoverished life, and thus eloped with a young and handsome son of a wealthy
family.

When he was three, his father, Chen Lingjun, left his family and had not returned since.
When he was four, the Su Clan from the southern territory, which had formed a betrothal
contract with him since before he was born, dispatched more than ten Golden Hall Realm
masters to Pine Mist City. When they arrived, they stood atop the sky and tore the marriage
contract to shreds before the eyes of everyone within Pine Mist City before flying off with a
swagger.

Misfortune after misfortune befell Chen Xi continuously for five years, each more stirring
than the previous. Pine Mist City wasn’t large at all, so before long, the name of Chen Xi
the jinx seemed to have grown wings and spread throughout the city, and it became known
to all.

Chen Xi had been reserved since he was young and had a cold and detached expression; no
one had seen him smile before. Combined with the dissemination by some busybodies, the
nickname “Deadpan Chen” resounded within Pine Mist City.

“Uncle Zhang, I’ll come again tomorrow.”

Chen Xi could feel the strange atmosphere around him. That is to say, he grew up under
such gazes in these past few years and had long since gotten used to them. He nodded
towards Uncle Zhang before turning around and leaving with a calm expression.

“Hmph!”

Not long after Chen Xi left, Zhang Dayong fiercely glared at the young man at the entrance
before scolding him. “Yun Hong, come with me!”

The youth jolted. “Uncle, I…” Before he could explain himself, the young man called Yun
Hong noticed that his uncle had long since entered the rear room. As he hurriedly ran to
follow, he resentfully muttered, “Incomprehensible. All I did was present some facts about
Deadpan Chen. What’s he getting so serious about?”

Right after the two of them left, the group of newly recruited talisman crafting apprentices
couldn’t help themselves from discussing what they had just witnessed.

“Heh, so that was Deadpan Chen. If I knew this earlier, I wouldn’t have come. I wonder if
I’ll be contaminated with misfortune if I learn talisman crafting from him.”

“Ah! Shit! I accidentally bumped into Deadpan Chen earlier when he was crafting the
talisman… This won’t do, I have to hurry home and take a bath.”

“Haha, look at how intimidated all of you are. My father said that Deadpan Chen only
brings disaster upon the Chen Clan and doesn’t affect us.”

The night sky was as dark as ink and studded with stars.
Under the piercingly cold gale, Chen Xi silently loosened his fist, which was clenched to
the point where his joints were pale, then tightened the thin clothes on his body as he
swiftly walked towards his home.

When he was about to reach his home, he spotted a thin figure sitting before the door.
Thanks to the starlight, he was able to vaguely discern that the figure was his younger
brother, Chen Hao.

“Big Brother, you’re home.” Chen Hao, who was only 12, stood up and shouted out in joy
before seeming to realize that something was wrong, making him hurriedly lower his head.

Chen Xi walked up and said with a voice that contained a trace of sternness, “Raise your
head.”

Chen Hao was like a child that had made a mistake, but he stubbornly refused to raise his
head as he spoke nervously. “Grandfather is waiting for you to have dinner. Let’s go
inside.”

After he spoke, Chen Hao turned around and wanted to enter the house, but he was grabbed
by Chen Xi from behind.

“Did you get into a fight again?” Chen Xi extended his hand to raise Chen Hao’s chin. He
frowned slightly when he saw blotches of red and swollen bruises on his younger brother’s
small face.

Chen Hao forcefully struggled free of Chen Xi and lifted his head, then he loudly said with
a gaze that contained as much stubbornness as before, “They called me a bastard, they
called Big Brother a jinx and cursed our family, saying we will all die sooner or later. Of
course I had to beat them.”

Chen Xi jolted, then he gazed at his stubborn younger brother, gazed at the sense of rage
and unwillingness on his immature and small face, and an indescribable pain suddenly
arose within his heart.
Chapter 2 - Departure

Chen Hao gazed at his older brother with an anxious and fearful expression and held his
breath in fear.

His older brother took care of his food, housing, and sent him to cultivate in the best martial
school within Pine Mist City. Even the spirit stones that Chen Xi obtained with great
difficulty were all spent on him, whereas Chen Xi had always been unwilling to spend even
a wee bit of spirit stones on himself.

Chen Hao knew that although his older brother seemed frosty, he actually had an extremely
good heart and was considerate right down to the most trivial details of himself and his
grandfather. But why does everyone make fun of him?

Deadpan Chen, Jinx…

Whenever he recalled these malicious nicknames, Chen Hao’s heart would be filled with
fury and he would wish for nothing more than to fiercely break the jaws of those people
that made fun of his older brother.

“Hmph. I’ll still beat them for as long as they continue to insult Big Brother!” Chen Hao
clenched his tiny fists tightly as he secretly made this decision in his heart.

“Let’s go home and have dinner.” Chen Xi came to from his silent state and took a deep
breath before patting Chen Hao on the shoulder. He then pushed the old and worn-out door
and walked into the house.

“Big Brother, you’re not going to scold me?” Chen Hao was stupefied for a moment before
joyfully grinning and yelling, “Alright, Big Brother, I was about to starve to death!”

A pine oil lamp flickered with dim rays of light that illuminated the narrow, cramped, and
worn-out wooden house.

An old man with aged and sparsely scattered hair sat silently at the dining table. His face
was full of wrinkles and he had bones that were thin like twigs, as well as a pair of murky
eyes that emitted a decaying aura.

The old man was Chen Tianli, a figure that once commanded the wind and the clouds
within Pine Mist City. Unfortunately, after the annihilation of the Chen Clan, his old illness
relapsed, causing his cultivation to be completely crippled and turning him into an ordinary
old man.

“Grandfather.” Chen Xi silently sat at the table. He couldn’t help but sigh inwardly when
he saw the bowl of pickled cabbage and three bowls of rice on the table. I’m still too stupid.
If I could earn a few more spirit stones each day, Grandfather and Little Brother wouldn’t
have to suffer anymore.   

“Eat.” Chen Tianli’s voice was deep and hoarse. “I have something to say after dinner.”

Chen Xi jolted before nodding. “Okay.”

The way the group ate was extremely amusing. Chen Xi and his grandfather only ate rice;
they gave the small bowl of pickled cabbage to Chen Hao. The little fellow seemed to know
that refusing would be of no use, so he immersed himself in eating as he repeated in his
heart the pledge that he made a long time ago. “Grandfather, Big Brother, once my
cultivation becomes strong, I’ll surely get all the best delicacies in the world for you two,
and we won’t eat this damned pickled cabbage anymore!”

After their meal, Chen Hao obediently cleared the dishes, then he picked up a wooden
sword and walked out of the house. He wanted to train with the sword; he wanted to use
every minute he had and make himself stronger!

“What level have you cultivated your Violet Sky Arts to?” Chen Tianli’s aged face revealed
a trace of gratification when he heard the swishing sounds of sword training from outside
the window.

The Violet Sky Arts was the Chen Clan’s qi refinement cultivation technique that was
handed down from their ancestors. It had a total of 18 levels which recorded in detail the
cultivation technique from the 9th level Postnatal Realm to the 9th level Congenital Realm.

“Still at the 13th level.” Even when speaking with his grandfather, Chen Xi’s face was as
icy-cold as always, and that sedated and stiff aura of his seemed as if it would never
change.

“Oh.” Chen Tianli nodded and made no comment, but in his heart, a trace of complicated
feelings poured out.

He both loved and hated this grandson of his, because ever since Chen Xi was born, the
entire Chen Clan was struck with grievous news non-stop. The clan was annihilated, Chen
Xi’s mother abandoned her family and left, Chen Xi’s father left full of hatred…

Most loathsome of all was that Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan actually tore apart the
previously agreed upon marriage contract before the eyes of everyone in Pine Mist City,
causing Chen Tianli to lose face. Were it not for him being concerned that there would be
no one to bring up his two young grandchildren, he would wish for nothing more than to
commit suicide and end his own life!

Sometimes, he would question if his grandson was really as the rumours portrayed, a jinx
with misfortune looming above his head. However, he would quickly get rid of this
thought, as he and his two grandchildren were the only remnants of the entire Chen Clan.
Coupled with his deteriorating body, they could only rely on Chen Xi crafting talismans to
barely bring home the bacon.

That is to say that it was precisely because of the presence of Chen Xi that their family
didn’t stoop to the extent of becoming associated with beggars all these years. Under Chen
Xi’s toilsome efforts, his young grandson, Chen Hao, was even able to enter and cultivate
in the Skystar Dojo, which was famous within Pine Mist City.

A jet of warmth gushed out from Chen Tianli’s heart when he thought up to this point. No
matter how misfortunate he was, Little Xi was still his grandson and the flesh and blood of
the Chen Clan.

“I’ve really made you suffer all these years.” Chen Tianli sighed. “I let Chen Hao eat and
wear the best we have, and I even let him enter the dojo to learn martial arts. But I made
you work hard to earn a living while not gaining the slightest bit of benefit. Grandfather…
has really been unfair to you!”

Chen Xi’s body stiffened as the grievances that were suppressed deep within his heart for
so many years stirred within him. He hurriedly took a deep breath, forcefully suppressing
these grievances, then he shook his head and said, “You’re aged and in poor health,
whereas Little Hao is young and ignorant. Thus, these things naturally ought to be done by
me.”

Chen Tianli laughed it off as he waved his hand and said, “Let’s not talk about all this.”

Chen Xi nodded and then fell silent.

His disposition was dull and unsociable, nor was he good with words. Combined with
being subjected to the mocking and ridicule of the people around him all these years, it had
caused him to grow reserved, and he would rather go about silently than speaking an extra
word.

After pondering for quite some time, Chen Tianli abruptly spoke. “Dragon Lake City’s
Thousand Sword Sect will open its doors to the public in half a month and recruit disciples.
I plan to take Little Hao there to try his luck.”

Chen Xi jolted before saying, “That’s good as well. Leaving Pine Mist City is more
beneficial to Little Hao’s growth.”

Chen Tianli couldn’t help himself from asking, “You… don’t hate Grandfather for showing
preference, right?”

Chen Xi shook his head. “I’ll obey Grandfather’s arrangements in everything.”

Chen Tianli carefully gazed at his grandson’s face, seeming to want to see something in it.
What made him disappointed after that was that from the beginning till the end, Chen Xi’s
appearance didn’t move in the slightest; it was as if he was a stiff log.

“He is dull when amongst people, and when others speak, he even becomes silent. I wonder
if it’s good or bad that he has such a firm and wilful disposition, alas!” Chen Tianli sighed
in his heart, then returned to the house.

Early in the morning of the next day, when Chen Xi had just awoken, the day had only just
dawned. He used cold water to wash his face and had only just walked out of his room
when he saw Chen Hao training with the sword.

Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

The wooden sword repeatedly emitted sounds of air being torn as it moved about
uninhibitedly. Chen Hao held the sword with his right hand, and his thin and weak figure
leaped about nimbly as he chopped, slashed, flicked, stabbed, and swept his sword as he
scrupulously practiced his swordsmanship.

His small face was filled with sweat, but between his immature brows was a sense of
staunchness, and the wooden sword in his hand didn’t tremble in the slightest as it moved
steadily and skillfully.

Chen Xi silently watched for a moment without disturbing his younger brother. After
hurriedly preparing breakfast, instead of crafting talismans as usual, he instead quickly
dashed towards the Zhang General Store.

“Ah, Deadpan Chen is here again!”

“Alas, I originally thought that I wouldn’t bump into him if I came to work in the morning,
but who knew that I would still run into him? Truly misfortunate.”

Within the Zhang General Store, the newly recruited talisman crafting apprentices moved
away in succession when they noticed Chen Xi walk in. Their faces were full of the fear of
being infected with misfortune.

“Uncle Zhang, is it alright for me to borrow 100 spirit stones from you?” How could Chen
Xi have the mood to pay attention to these fellows who taunted and jeered at him? He
directly arrived before the counter and raised his request to Zhang Dayong.

Zhang Dayong said, in a questioning manner, “Chen Xi, what happened? Tell me and
maybe I can be of some help.”
Chen Xi has helped craft talismans for his general store for more than five years, and he
had never once borrowed money from him, but today Chen Xi unexpectedly wanted to
borrow 100 spirit stones from him. He was naturally bewildered and thought that if it was
something within his ability, he would help the kid out.

Chen Xi perceived the sense of care within Zhang Dayong’s words, and his heart was
warmed as he said while shaking his head, “I haven’t encountered any trouble; I only want
to buy something.”

Zhang Dayong came to a sudden understanding. He then decisively took out a spirit jade
and said, “Here, is it enough? If it isn’t, I can still lend you a little more.”

“It’s enough. Thank you, Uncle Zhang. I’ll repay you quickly.” A spirit jade was roughly
comparable to 100 spirit stones, and the exchange rate was only higher, not lower. After
Chen Xi received the spirit jade, he turned around and left with hurried steps.

“Strange, this kid is usually extremely thrifty for the sake of maintaining the livelihood of
his family, so he has never once spent money recklessly. What’s going on today?” Zhang
Dayong gazed at Chen Xi’s figure that vanished outside the store and was extremely
bewildered.

The Hundred Refinement Hall was situated in a busy district at the center of Pine Mist City.
It exclusively sold weapons and equipment that were required by cultivators on a grand
scale, and it was rather famous within the city.

After Chen Xi dropped by, it wasn’t even 15 minutes before the spirit jade was spent, but
he didn’t feel pained at all; a sense of gratification arose within his heart instead.

When he returned home, it was already near midday. Chen Tianli was packing their bags,
whereas Chen Hao sat before the door with his hands cupping his face, pondering about
something.

“Brother, you’re back.” Chen Hao stood up with a ‘whoosh,’ and his small face was filled
with joy.

Chen Xi rubbed Chen Hao’s head as he asked, “Leaving soon?”

Chao Hao nodded, and his expression dimmed. He wasn’t willing to part with his older
brother, and when he thought of how he wouldn’t be able to frequently see his older brother
once he’d gone to Dragon Lake City, he felt extremely sad.

Chen Xi took out a rectangular, jade case and passed it over. “I bought this for you; you
have to work hard.”
“For me?” Chen Hao was stupefied. He looked at the exquisite, jade case, and for a
moment, he didn’t dare believe his eyes.

Ever since he was small, whenever he saw the kids of other families flaunting various gifts,
he would feel extremely envious, but he didn’t dare have any extravagant hopes of
possessing one. Because he knew that the life of his family relied on the toilsome efforts of
his older brother in order to maintain their livelihood, and under these circumstances, he
didn’t dare crave for it at all.

Now, at the moment before he departed, his older brother didn’t say a thing and bought him
a present. How could this not make him feel touched?

“Brother…” Chen Hao’s voice was slightly choked as he lowered his head. He spent a great
deal of effort to stop himself from crying, but his eyes were already red.

Chen Xi patted his young brother’s shoulder. “Take good care of Grandfather, and take
good care of yourself as well.”

“Mmm!” Chen Hao fiercely nodded.

“I’ll go see to Grandfather, and I’ll escort you two out of the city later.” Chen Xi’s face
revealed a rare trace of a faint smile as he turned around and walked into the house.

Chen Hao took a deep breath as he slowly opened the jade case. Within the case, a
longsword that emitted a piercingly cold sheen silently laid there.

Om!

After holding up the longsword and pouring his True Essence into it, the long sword
suddenly emitted a clear and melodious cry, and a trace of a dense, sharp qi gushed out.

“Brother, don’t worry, I won’t let you down!” Chen Hao gazed at the longsword in his hand
with a firm gaze. It was like he had grown up overnight and was no longer the ignorant
child from before.

Outside the city’s gate.

At midday, as the sun hung high in the sky, a carriage carried the pair of grandfather and
grandson as it slowly sped off.

Chen Xi stood atop the city wall. With his gaze focused on something in the distance, his
heart rose and fell like the waves.
Chapter 3 - Grievous News

Chen Xi thought about the matters in his heart as he silently made his way back home.

He didn’t let the departure of his grandfather and younger brother get him down. According
to his knowledge, the Thousand Sword Sect in Dragon Lake City was rather famous in the
southern territory and the various institutions that were established within Pine Mist City
were utterly incapable of comparing to it.

Over the past few thousand years, after the perfection of the cultivation system, various
novel things appeared on the path of cultivation, and institutions were one of them.

These institutions were established within towns and cities. They employed erudite
cultivators to instruct students on fundamental cultivation knowledge. These cultivators
earned great wealth in this manner.

These institutions didn’t reject people based on their social status. Regardless of whether
you were a mountain dweller, a slave, a wealthy merchant or a hawker, so long as you paid
sufficient spirit stones you would be able to enter the institutions to learn.

The types of institutions varied and were divided according to their names.

For example, the various institutions established within Pine Mist City included equipment
refinement, puppeteering, talisman crafting, alchemy, botany, taming, etc. Prior to this,
Chen Hao was learning the fundamentals of swordsmanship in the Skystar Institution.

However, the institutions had their own limitations as well, as the knowledge taught was
the most foundational and simple knowledge. If one wanted to take more advanced lessons,
then they needed to enter a sect.

A sect was commonly established within renowned mountains and near great rivers that
were rich in spirit energy. They often possessed great cultivators who took up positions in
the sect and its conditions for disciple selection were extremely harsh. A person who didn’t
possess superb natural talent and a solid foundation would be utterly incapable of passing
the sect’s recruitment exams, and thus was far from something those common institutions
could compare to.

Chen Xi was very clear about the amount of injustices Chen Hao had suffered over the
years. Because of him, Chen Hao was mocked as a little jinx by his peers. No one was
willing to come into contact with Chen Hao, nor did Chen Hao have even a single friend.
Thus, if his younger brother was able to formally enter the Thousand Sword Sect, it would
undoubtedly be a joyous occasion for Chen Hao, who was crazy about practicing his
swordsmanship. Not to mention, it would be extremely beneficial for his younger brother’s
growth.
Chen Hao was only 12 this year. Because he was endowed by nature with unusual
intelligence, he had cultivated to the level of perfection within the Postnatal Realm a long
time ago. Under the devoted guidance of his grandfather, his foundation was incomparably
solid. So passing the Thousand Sword Sect’s exam ought to not be a problem.

When approaching his house, Chen Xi saw from afar a five or six-year-old girl cupping her
chin as she sat before his door. The young girl had a headful of hair that was bundled up
into a vertical pigtail, a pair of jet-black glossy eyes and an extremely cute appearance.

The young girl ran over when she noticed Chen Xi and excitedly asked, “Big Brother Chen
Xi, where’s Little Hao? I brought his favorite lime candy, but he still hasn’t come.”

The young girl’s name was Xixi. She was lively and lovable, but didn’t have a father. She
lived with her mother, Bai Wanqing, who had moved to Pine Mist City a few years ago.
They were Chen Xi’s neighbors, so the relationship between their two families was
extremely good.

“He’s gone to a distant place to acknowledge a master and study under him. He probably
won’t be returning for the next few years.”

Chen Xi rubbed Xixi’s little head. He was extremely fond of Xixi in his heart. The little girl
was a few years younger than his brother, and whenever he returned from Skystar
Institution, she would be like a puppy that tagged along with Chen Hao to play,
occasionally sharing some candy. Thus, the two of them had an extremely good
relationship.

What was particularly important was that Xixi and her mother never gave Chen Xi’s family
the cold shoulder and never regarded Chen Xi as a jinx. This sort of trust that didn’t have
any other motives mixed in made Chen Xi value it exceptionally.

In a daze, Xixi looked upwards as she asked, “Distant place? Where’s the distant place?”

Chen Xi thought for a moment before saying, “A place you can’t go to is called a distant
place. But once Xixi grows up, you can go there.”

Xixi replied with an “Oh.” before becoming dispirited and putting on a depressed face.

Chen Xi comforted her, “Why don’t you come play at my place?”

Xixi’s gaze shone. “Okay. I want to watch Big Brother Chen Xi craft talismans.”

“Follow me.” A trace of a smile appeared on the corners of Chen Xi’s mouth when he saw
the little girl become happy, but in the blink of an eye he once again recovered that frosty
and stiff appearance.

Holding on to Xixi’s chubby little hand, Chen Xi walked into his house.
…

Placed on the table were a pile of light azure talisman papers, an ink tray of blackish-red
ink, and a dark talisman brush.

Chen Xi fixed his posture to sit up straight before the table. Xixi obediently sat on the small
stool at the side with a little face full of curiosity.

Chen Xi pointed to the pile of light azure talisman papers as he explained in a light voice,
“These are pine grain talisman papers, the most inexpensive type of talisman paper in the
market. It has a stiff texture and rough grain, and it is ordinarily used to craft the simplest
basic talismans.”

Xixi was like a student as she fiercely nodded and said, “Big Brother Chen Xi, I’ve
remembered it.”

Chen Xi chuckled and shook his head before pointing to the tray of blackish-red ink and
saying, “This tray of ink is derived from the blood of a Crimson Flame Deer. The Crimson
Flame Deer itself is the one of the lowest class of demon beasts in the world of cultivation.
Other than its blood, which can be used as ink for talisman crafting, the rest of its body
doesn’t have a shred of value. Even the merchants that specialize in raising and training
demon beasts for a living aren’t willing to raise and train this type of useless demon beast.”

Xixi nodded as she asked, “What about that brush?”

“That’s a talisman brush. There’s a difference in quality among talisman brushes. When
crafting a talisman, a superior quality talisman brush will not only draw out smoother
strokes and more symmetrical marks, it’s able to increase the success rate of talisman
crafting. This talisman brush is a mere ordinary talisman brush. However, it’s sufficient for
me.”

As he finished speaking, Chen Xi abruptly noticed that he had a lot more to say than usual
today. Could it be that it’s because grandfather and little brother left, I’ve taken Xixi as
someone to pour my heart out to?

As he thought up to this point, Chen Xi turned to look at Xixi, but noticed that the little girl
was resting her head on the table and had been asleep for an unknown amount of time. A
strand of glistening and translucent drool hung from the corner of her mouth.

Chen Xi randomly recalled how his younger brother had the exact same appearance when
he was younger. He couldn’t help but feel his heart warm as he carefully picked Xixi up
and placed her on his bed. He then tucked her in and returned to sit at the wooden table.

Without further ado, Chen Xi picked up the brush and stained it with sufficient ink, then he
waved it before swinging it to draw a talisman.
Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

As the tip of the brush, which was stained with blackish-red ink, lightly glided on the empty
talisman paper, a fine, red line gushed out from the end of the brush. It was like an
intelligent earthworm as it moved along a graceful and smooth trajectory to quickly creep
across the light azure pine grain talisman paper.

Chen Xi was always serious and concentrated when crafting talismans. His eyes were
staring fixedly at the talisman paper beneath his brush and his back was straight, seeming
like a spear that could pierce the heavens. His right arm hung in the air motionlessly like a
curled and strong section of a pine tree branch that grew wildly out from between the
cracks of a tombstone on a cliff. From the beginning till the end, it didn’t shift in the
slightest.

What moved was his right wrist!

His right wrist was extremely nimble as it controlled the talisman brush in his hand to
sketch on the paper, then he applied ink onto the talisman paper at a shocking speed. His
movements were skilled and smooth; not only did they not give off an unstable feeling in
the slightest, they instead seemed like a flowing stream, bringing along an agile and
harmonic rhythm.

When a complicated and profound pattern quietly bloomed like a flower atop the talisman
paper, the talisman paper abruptly shone before dimming down and returning to normal.

Without taking a second glance, Chen Xi casually placed the first-grade Flamecloud
Talisman aside, then took another blank piece of Pine Grain talisman paper and wielded his
brush onto it, unwilling to waste a shred of time.

Five years ago, Chen Xi’s grandfather took out the last bit of his savings to allow Chen Xi
to study at a talisman crafting institution. Once he successfully grasped the crafting of first-
grade basic talismans, talisman crafting became the sole source of income in their
household.

However, Chen Xi only knew how to craft first-grade basic talismans. This couldn’t be
helped because when learning the method of talisman crafting in an institution, merely the
first-grade was provided. If one wanted to learn crafting of higher grade talismans, then
they would have to sell an arm and a leg to buy the corresponding books. The price was too
high, so Chen Xi couldn’t afford it.

Even then, Chen Xi was still extremely satisfied.

When he just started crafting talismans, he was only capable of crafting five first-grade
talismans a day, but now he could craft 30. When converted into spirit stones, 30 talismans
were equal to as many as 10 spirit stones. In the past, it was enough to maintain the
livelihood of their household as well as pay for Chen Hao’s studies in swordsmanship at the
institution.

Now that his grandfather and younger brother had gone to the southern territory, only he
remained. So long as he lived frugally, it wouldn’t be long before he could collect a good
amount of spirit stones. If he did this, purchasing a higher grade talisman crafting book
wouldn’t be impossible.

Of course, before doing that he’d have to return the 100 spirit stones he owed Uncle Zhang.

Time trickled by. Within the cramped and dim room, Chen Xi had a concentrated and
focused expression as he bent over the table and wielded the brush with smooth and
familiar movements. He was entirely immersed in a type of completely oblivious state.
Under this state, that pile of blank Pine Grain talisman paper shifted as time passed, slowly
transforming into talismans with complicated and profound patterns.

Whoosh~

The sky was already dark when Chen Xi finished crafting the last talisman. He carefully
placed the talisman brush on the inkstone before heaving a long sigh of relief. Deep
exhaustion was revealed between his brows, causing his gaunt face to seem even paler.

With his cultivation at the intermediate stage of the Congenital Realm, the True Essence
within his body was barely able to sustain him crafting 30 first-grade talismans. If he
wanted to craft more, it would only be possible if his cultivation increased and his True
Essence rose explosively.

It was easy to say, but to Chen Xi, it was exceedingly difficult to increase his cultivation.

His natural talent wasn’t bad, and the Violet Sky Arts that was passed down in his family
wasn’t something ordinary cultivation methods could compare to. However, his cultivation
realm had stagnated at the intermediate-stage of the Congenital Realm for a whole five
years without a shred of progress.

It was precisely because of this that Chen Tianli placed all hope on Chen Hao, whereas he
was arranged to study talisman crafting….

Could it be that it’s really because I’m too stupid?

Chen Xi had questioned and was in denial more than once. The struggle, frustration, pain,
and sense of loss within were things that only he understood.

Knock! Knock! Knock!

He heard a burst of light and slow sounds of the door being knocked. Accompanying the
sound of door knocks was a woman’s voice that was gentle and pleasant to the ear. “Chen
Xi, is Xixi at your house?”

Chen Xi came to from his pondering before opening the door. A woman with an elegant
appearance stood outside the door. She was wearing a cloth gown and a hairpin made of
chaste tree branches, but it was difficult to hide her body’s graceful charm. It was precisely
Xixi’s mother, Bai Wanqing.

“Aunt Bai, Xixi’s fallen asleep.” Chen Xi said.

Bai Wanqing heaved a sigh of relief as she smiled and said, “The little one didn’t trouble
you, right? I’ll carry her back home now.”

Chen Xi shook his head.

Bai Wanqing knew that his disposition was reserved and that he was a man of few words.
She chuckled as she entered the house to carry the soundly asleep Xixi out, then she left.

However, not long after, the door sounded once again, and this time the sound of knocking
was rapid and concentrated like drumbeats.

Chen Xi frowned and went to open the door. It was Bai Wanqing, who’d returned with an
anxious expression.

What happened?

Right at the moment Chen Xi felt bewildered, Bai Wanqing had already cried out, “Hurry!
Hurry and go outside the city. It seems your grandfather met with an accident!”

What?

Grandfather met with an accident?

Chen Xi’s head buzzed as if he was struck by lightning.

Chapter 4 - Enemy

It hadn’t even been half a day and Grandfather and Little Brother already had an
accident?

Impossible!

Those people that hated me, those fellows that called me a jinx for all these years, they
didn’t even have enough time to avoid me, so why would they go harm Grandfather and
Little Brother?

Could it be an enemy?

Could it be the people that massacred over 1,000 Chen Clan members that year?

But so many years had passed; why didn’t they exterminate our family by the roots earlier?
Why would they wait until today?

Chen Xi felt the vital energy and blood in his entire body surge, his head was throbbing and
felt like it was about to explode!

He was like a cornered wild animal as he madly charged out of his house, out of the
residential district, and towards the outside of the city.

Grandfather and Little Brother will be fine... They will be….

Unbeknownst to him, he was yelling as he ran down the street.

Even though it was late at night, it was still bright as day in Pine Mist City. All kinds of
lamps that flowed with multi-colored rays of light hung everywhere in the city. The lamps
were brightly lit as if being occupied by fire dragons, clamorous and magnificent.

The streets were densely filled with pedestrians, and there was even a large and dense
crowd gathered outside the city gates.

An emaciated and bony geezer with bloodied clothes and a pair of tightly shut eyes was
lying on the ground. He’d obviously been dead for a long time.

Beside the body, a 12-year-old child knelt there without a word. There were no tears on his
immature face, but his gaze was pale and empty, as if he were a soulless puppet.

“I know him, he’s the Skystar Institution’s Chen Hao. We’re in the same school!”

“Ah! So it’s the jinx’s young brother. The geezer at the side couldn’t be his grandfather,
right?”
“Alas, it surely is. The Chen Clan’s patriarch that was extremely famous in our Pine Mist
City in those years has been killed in the wilderness outside the city. Pitiable! Lamentable!”

The crowd discussed animatedly, but no one was willing to lend a hand because one was
the jinx’s younger brother and the other was the jinx’s grandfather. They weren’t willing to
be stained with misfortune.

“Everyone, move aside. The jinx has come!” A sharp voice abruptly sounded. Upon
hearing the voice, the large crowd abruptly opened up a path like they were avoiding the
plague.

Under the strange gazes of the crowd, a gaunt figure charged over as if he had gone mad. It
was obviously Chen Xi.

“Grandfather!” Chen Xi thoroughly severed the hopes inside his heart when he saw the
familiar figure that quietly lay on the ground. His heart ached as if it had been pierced by
10,000 arrows and his body started trembling involuntarily.

As he walked step by step to arrive before his grandfather’s corpse, his stiff and frosty face
didn’t change, but his eyes were fully red.

“Brother…” An extremely hoarse and low but familiar voice sounded, causing Chen Xi’s
mind to shake. What he saw was his younger brother looking at him like a puppet with a
pair of empty and lackluster eyes.

Who was it?

Who exactly did it?

Chen Xi’s mind was in even more agony. His nails had deeply sunken into his palm and
blood was flowing out, but he wasn’t aware at all.

How he absolutely hated himself for being too incapable, hated himself for facing the
mocking and ridicule from the surrounding people but being powerless to change it…

Heavens!

If you want to punish someone, then punish me and me alone. Why didn’t you let my Chen
Clan or my parents or my grandfather go?

WHY!?

Chen Xi’s heart was roaring in a frenzy and he almost lost control.
Bang!

Chen Hao seemed to be unable to persist any longer. He weakly shut his eyes before
fainting in Chen Xi’s arms.

Chen Xi gazed at his younger brother in his arms, noticing the exhaustion and helplessness
on his younger brother’s immature face before he abruptly jolted awake from the infinite
rage within his heart. Grandfather is already dead. I can’t let anything happen to Little
Brother.

He carried his younger brother on his back and his grandfather’s corpse in his arms as he
staggered back into the city and made his way home.

“The jinx has finally left. Ha! Look at that, after so many years, he caused his grandfather’s
death. Tsk, sure enough, his misfortune is fully raging.”

“Talk softly. Do you have a death wish? Careful, you might get stained by misfortune and
throw away your life if you continue cursing the jinx!”

“Che, talking about me? Didn’t you call him jinx as well?”

“Humph, whatever.”

“Continue acting. Perhaps in your heart, you’re even thinking of when the jinx will cause
his younger brother’s death, right!?”

On the way home, the droning sounds of discussions that were accompanied by the
piercingly cold night breeze floated into Chen Xi’s ears. They were like sharp, silver
needles that deeply pierced into his heart.

Yet he still kept to himself and walked forward like a tombstone that had experienced years
of being slapped by the waves of the ocean. The pain went so deep that it pierced his bones,
but he was as unyielding as always.

Numbed?

No, I will always remember this moment.

If I don’t die, then one day I’ll surely step on the stairway to heaven, go high beyond the
clouds, and take the Milky Way and nine heavens within my arms! SUPREME!

All of you…

Wait for the day you mock yourselves.

…

The sky unceasingly rained upon the outskirts of the city.

Before a solitary grave mound, Chen Xi stood up and said, “Grandfather, rest in peace,” in
a low voice that was calm and dull, yet sonorous and persistent.

Chen Xi had knelt before the grave for three days without food or water. He remained
completely unmoved under the force of the sun and wind, and his face was ghastly pale and
utterly haggard.

Seeing Chen Xi return to normal, Bai Wanqing, who stood at the side, secretly heaved a
sigh of relief as she said, “Go home, Chen Hao woke up from his coma last night.”

Chen Xi nodded in agreement.

“Aunt Bai, thank you.” When they were near his house, Chen Xi stopped and thanked Bai
Wanqing with an earnest expression. For these three days, Bai Wanqing was like a relative
and was always at his home helping him take care of his younger brother, causing him to be
extremely touched.

When everyone only knew how to mock him, there was one person that silently rushed
about and exhausted themselves for him, and such a person was worthy of Chen Xi always
remembering and being grateful to for his entire life.

Bai Wanqing did not expect Chen Xi to thank her so earnestly, so she jolted before saying,
with a smile, “So long as you live on properly, and moreover, live better than anyone else,
then that’s the best thanks to me.”

Chen Xi earnestly nodded.

Bai Wanqing chuckled and didn’t stay any longer; she turned and left.

A trace of warmth couldn’t help but pour out of Chen Xi’s heart as he watched the gentle
and graceful figure vanish into the distance. Their talk caused his spirit to be refreshed and
the gloominess between his brows lessened considerably.

The door swung open, and Chen Hao gazed at Chen Xi as he lightly called out, “Brother.”

Chen Xi walked forward and firmly hugged his younger brother. “It doesn’t matter if your
right hand is crippled; as long as you’re alive, there’s still hope.”

That night, Chen Xi’s grandfather had fallen victim to an attack and passed away, whereas
Chen Hao paid the price of an arm. As the vitality within his right arm was crippled, even if
a supreme, miraculous cure that could bring back the dead were to be found for him, it
would be of no use.
Chen Xi was extremely clear about exactly how much pain the loss of his right hand
brought to his younger brother, as his younger brother has been obsessed with
swordsmanship since a young age and had once pledged to pioneer a path of his own in the
Dao of the sword. Now that his younger brother’s right hand was gone, it undoubtedly
thoroughly spelled the end to the dream that his younger brother had held for so many
years, and Chen Xi could imagine his pain.

“Brother, I’ve already decided to cultivate left-handed swordsmanship!” Chen Hao

straightened his back. With a deep and profound gaze, he seemed as if he’d been reborn as
he resolutely said, “Losing my right arm is a good thing as well. One arm, one sword. It’ll
allow me to be more devoted, and my swordsmanship will be even better.”

Chen Xi looked at his younger brother, who seemed to have matured overnight, and looked
at the renewed resolution that once again radiated on his face. For a moment, Chen Xi’s
heart rose and fell like the waves, and he could hardly restrain his emotions. “Good! Good!
Good!”

A string of saying good thrice had already fully expressed the joy in Chen Xi’s heart.

“Grandfather and I were ambushed at the Azure Wolf Gorge by three masked men. Before
his death, Grandfather said that they all possessed Violet Palace Realm cultivation.”

After their meal, Chen Xi started asking about what he and grandfather encountered after
leaving the city, as he wanted to figure out who exactly was the one that killed his
grandfather.

However, when he heard his younger brother mention three Violet Palace Realm
cultivators, Chen Xi’s heart jerked.

The path of cultivation was divided like this: Postnatal Realm, Congenital Realm, Violet
Palace Realm, Golden Hall Realm, Yin-Yang Golden Core Realm, Rebirth Realm, Nether
Transformation Realm, and the Earthly Immortal Realm.

The Postnatal Realm was divided into nine stages that cultivated True Essence within the
body to clear the arteries and the veins, and it provided an increase in one’s lifespan of 60
years. After arriving at this realm, one would be robust and strong with Blood Essence that
surges like a tide, and they will be devoid of disease.

The Congenital Realm was also divided into nine stages which practice breathing the
energy of the heavens and the earth to cultivate the heart and stabilize the mind, and it
provided an increase in one’s lifespan of 100 years. Upon arriving at this realm, one will
have cleared and slipped out of their mortal shell to allow the physique to contain spirit;
however, among the myriad people in the world, very few were able to step into the
Congenital Realm!
The Violet Palace Realm steals the energy of heaven and earth to develop a Violet Palace
within the Dantian. Every time one’s cultivation level increases, a True Essence star would
appear within their Violet Palace, and when nine stars were strung together, the Violet
Palace can be considered to have attained perfection.

This realm was also called the Realm of Touching Stars. Arriving at this realm provided an
increase in one’s lifespan of 500 years. Only after reaching this realm could it be said that a
cultivator had established the foundation of cultivating in the Dao and had truly stepped
onto the road to immortal cultivation.

According to Chen Xi’s knowledge, not even one in 10,000 Congenital Realm experts
succeed in establishing a Violet Palace. In Pine Mist City, a Violet Palace Realm cultivator
was absolutely the highest tier expert. When he heard that the assailants that killed his
grandfather were actually three Violet Palace Realm cultivators, the shock in Chen Xi’s
heart was unimaginable.

He had only cultivated to the 3rd level of the Congenital Realm, and even this was all
thanks to receiving his grandfather’s devoted guidance from a young age.

In those days, his Chen Clan was an extremely powerful, prosperous and large clan in Pine
Mist City. As the Patriarch of the Chen Clan, Chen Tianli himself was a 7th star Violet
Palace Realm cultivator. Even though his cultivation was crippled, the inheritance he
possessed wasn’t lost. No matter how ordinary Chen Xi’s natural talent was, with the
attentive imparting of knowledge from Chen Tianli, advancing into the Congenital Realm
was not worth mentioning.

However, his hope to become a Violet Palace Realm cultivator was extremely small. After
all, his cultivation had already stagnated at the 3rd level of the Congenital Realm for five
years, so it was difficult to say whether he was capable of making an advancement.

“Right, I have a Soundsaver Talisman here. It recorded a short conversation between those
three people!” Chen Hao abruptly slapped himself on the head as he spoke, then he pulled
out a deep blue colored talisman and passed it to Chen Xi.

The Soundsaver Talisman was a type of auxiliary talisman. Within the cultivation world,
when a cultivator went out, they often left behind a Soundsaver Talisman so they could
leave a message to avoid a visiting friend from being unable to find them.

This Soundsaver Talisman was something Chen Xi crafted for his younger brother to play
with, but he never imagined it would actually be put to such great use. Chen Xi’s heart felt
a burst of agitation when he thought about how in a few moments, he might be able to hear
the voice of the assailants who killed his grandfather.

After pouring True Essence into it, a deep blue colored bright light suddenly emerged from
the Soundsaver Talisman’s surface.
“The Young Master ordered that he wanted them to be trapped alive within Pine Mist City.
He wants to make them live with the rejection and mocking of the people until they drive
themselves to death…”

“Put down a tight encirclement and bring them back to the city if they ever go out! This
matter is related to the marriage between the young master and that person of Dragon
Lake City. If anyone dares be inattentive, they’ll be killed without pardon!”

A sharp and gloomy voice that seemed as if it was a venomous snake flicking its tongue
while being hidden in the shadows floated out from within the Soundsaver Talisman.

Pop!

The Soundsaver Talisman transformed into a wisp of ash that flew into the air and
vanished.

Chen Xi’s expression was already completely ashen.

Chapter 5 - Jade Pendant

Who’s the Young Master the voice spoke of?

Actually murdering my entire family, just for the sake of a marriage?

Who’s ‘that person of the Dragon Lake City?’

Chen Xi’s mind pondered crazily. The information the Soundsaver Talisman revealed was
too obscure, but there were still small hints; All that he needed to do was find a
breakthrough point and then everything else would fall into place!

Someone in the Dragon Lake City who was related to me, there was only the…

Su Clan!

Right, it was definitely the Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan!

Chen Xi experienced a flash of inspiration as he abruptly thought of a strong possibility.

He’d heard his grandfather speak of it before. When he was born, his mother, Zuoqiu Xue,
had agreed to a marriage contract with the Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan’s Patriarch. The
agreement stipulated that when he turned 18, Chen Xi would marry the daughter of the Su
Clan’s Patriarch, Su Jiao. However, along with the annihilation of the Chen Clan and the
disappearance of his mother when he was 4, the Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan had
dispatched more than 10 Golden Hall Realm experts to tear the marriage contract to shreds
in front of everyone within the Pine Mist City.

The Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan also undoubtedly possessed the strength to affect what
happened in Pine Mist City and to urge 3 Violet Palace Realm cultivators to abduct and kill
his grandfather and younger brother!

Right, that’s definitely what happened!

The more he thought about it, the clearer Chen Xi’s train of thought became, and he
determined that his inference couldn’t be far from the truth.

As for the identity of that ‘Young Master,’ it should be easy to figure out. Such massive
movements that spared no pains to tightly encircle Pine Mist City, for the sake of
preventing me and little brother from fleeing, is something only one of the great powers
within Pine Mist City are capable of.

The purpose of them doing this is surely for the sake of that ‘Young Master’s’ marriage.
Perhaps it was in order to unite with the Dragon Lake City Su Clan through marriage, and
the union through marriage hinges upon a term of exchange, which was to drive me and
little brother to death! 
Thinking up to this point, Chen Xi felt his entire body go frigid, as though he’d fallen into
an icy lake. Tearing up the marriage agreement had already gone over the line, but they
actually still wanted to completely extinguish his family. What vile means! What grim
hearts!

Chen Xi took a deep breath as he strove to remain calm. He began to ponder exactly which
power within Pine Mist City the ‘Young Master’ was from.

The southern territory belonged to the Darchu Dynasty, encompassing over 500,000 km of
land and containing numerous cities. Pine Mist City was merely an unremarkable little
town within the southern territory’s domain, only occupying an area of about 5,000 km.

Pine Mist City was also adjacent to the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range where demon
beasts ran wild. Furthermore, as it lacked a prosperous area that contained wondrous
amounts of spirit energy and ore veins, Pine Mist City was an existence akin to a barren
land. Thus, very few great powers occupied Pine Mist City.

According to Chen Xi’s knowledge, Pine Misty City was currently controlled by 3 great
powers, namely the General’s Estate, the Li Clan, and the Pine Mist Institution.

The General’s Estate was a highly disciplined military force that the Darchu Dynasty
garrisoned within Pine Mist City. It held the responsibility of upholding the order within
Pine Mist City, and thus detached itself from the affairs of the various other powers in the
city.

The Pine Mist Institution, on the other hand, provided a place of cultivation for the Pine
Mist City’s juniors. They accepted and instructed disciples by preaching and dispelling
their doubts in cultivation. There were no lack of Violet Palace Realm cultivators within the
institution. However, the Pine Mist Institution kept an extremely low-profile and never
participated in the struggles between the powers of Pine Mist City.

The Li Clan was the only powerful clan that occupied Pine Mist City, and they possessed
more than 10 Violet Palace Realm cultivators. After the annihilation of the Chen Clan, the
Li Clan’s strength was formidable, to the extent that it became the number 1 clan within
Pine Mist City and was extremely influential.

Chen Xi’s gaze firmly locked itself onto the Li Clan.

Among these three powers, if he were to speak of the power that hated his Chen Clan the
most, then it would be the Li Clan without a doubt. This was because before the Chen Clan
was annihilated, the two clans were mortal enemies that fought endlessly.

It was to the extent that his grandfather suspected that the Li Clan participated in
annihilation of the Chen Clan as well.
Possessing the strength to lay a tight encirclement outside Pine Mist City and having
enmity with my Chen Clan, that ‘Young Master’ should be a member of the Li Clan!

At this point, all of the clues were roughly organized and Chen Xi couldn’t help but heave a
deep sigh as he said in his heart, “Grandfather, weren’t you always in agony about not
knowing who was the sworn enemy that annihilated our Chen Clan? Don’t worry, your
grandson has already grasped an important clue. Once your grandson becomes stronger,
I’ll take revenge for you! I’ll take revenge for the 1,000 plus members of our Chen Clan!”

“Brother, have you guessed the identity of our enemy?” Chen Hao’s small face looked
upwards with eyes that were filled with the color of hatred.

Chen Xi shook his head, because telling Chen Hao about this matter before he possessed
the strength to annihilate the Li Clan would bring nothing but harm.

“Little Hao, since you’ve decided to cultivate left-handed swordsmanship, work hard! Once
you’ve become strong, big brother will take you to kill people, to kill our enemies!” Chen
Xi patted his younger brother’s shoulder. He had a tranquil expression on his face. “I’ll
work hard to become strong as well, and I’ll never let you suffer an injustice in the future!”

Chen Hao firmly nodded. “Brother, for the sake of Grandfather, for the sake of our Chen
Clan, let’s work hard together!”

“Okay!” The brothers looked at each other with firm expressions that seemed to be cut
from the same cloth.

In the following days, besides crafting talismans to earn spirit stones, Chen Xi devoted
practically all his time to cultivating. Although his cultivation had stagnated at the 3rd level
of the Congenital Realm for five years, he wasn’t dejected in the slightest and instead
cultivated diligently and strenuously like a madman. It was to the point of neglecting
sleeping and eating because he wasn’t willing to waste even the slightest bit of time.

Dripping water wears through stone. Only with persistence will one be able to see hope!

Chen Xi was silent and dull, and he’d always had a wilful and stubborn disposition. Thus,
this was how he thought and this was what he did.

Chen Hao changed as well. Because he had lost his right hand, the swordsmanship that he’d
practiced before was practically crippled. Training with his left hand was undoubtedly no
different from beginning anew.

He adapted to his left hand with great effort and worked on adjusting the rhythm of his
sword movements, consolidating the foundation of his left-handed swordsmanship bit by
bit.
Beneath the rising sun and beneath the curtain of night, his thin and small figure could be
seen spraying sweat as he trained in the sword with great effort!

Chen Hao’s natural talent was excellent to begin with, and his foundation was
incomparably dense from his grandfather’s teachings. Thus, not even 10 days passed before
he’d already completely familiarized himself with utilizing a sword with his left hand.
Also, due to his undivided attention on a single hand, he achieved an advancement in the
level of his swordsmanship.

Most worthy of mention was that during the eighth day of his bitter training, Chen Hao
broke through from the perfection stage of the Postnatal Realm and successfully advanced
to the Congenital Realm in one fell swoop!

The speed at which he advanced made it so that it wouldn’t be long before surpassing his
older brother became a possibility.

Chen Xi was pleasantly surprised by this, and at the same time he felt a formless pressure
envelop himself. What about him? When would he be able to break through the 3rd level of
the Congenital Realm?

Although his cultivation still stagnated, Chen Xi had other gains. In these past few days, he
had completely repaid the 100 spirit stones he owed Uncle Zhang by relying on the spirit
stones he earned from crafting talismans. Moreover, there was still a little left over, and this
made his mood much better.

He’d calculated that after deducting the day-to-day expenses, he would be able to save four
spirit stones each day from the spirit stones he earned from crafting talismans. Originally,
he planned on accumulating sufficient spirit stones to purchase a book on crafting  second-
grade talismans, but for the sake of advancing his cultivation more quickly he decided to
use the spirit stones on cultivating.

To Chen Xi, who was accustomed to living an impoverished life, using spirit stones to
cultivate was a luxury. After all, for the sake of maintaining their livelihood all these years,
he had racked his brains to strictly count and budgeted every spirit stone. He wished for
nothing more than to be able to multiply each spirit stone into two before using them.

However, for the sake of advancing his cultivation, he couldn’t consider that anymore.

The True Essence within Chen Xi’s body was only capable of sustaining the crafting of 30
talismans a day, which at most would earn him 10 spirit stones. Once his cultivation
advanced and his True Essence increased rapidly, he would be capable of crafting even
more talismans to earn even more spirit stones.

Thus, the advancement of his cultivation was all that mattered now!
The density of spirit energy in the outside environment was too low after all. Only by
earning more spirit stones and using them to cultivate would he be able to allow he and his
younger brother to become stronger.

With such plans, Chen Xi shared half of the four spirit stones he earned each day with his
young brother and used the other half for his own cultivation. However, what made Chen
Xi speechless was that after 10 days had passed, even though he used spirit stones to
cultivate, the True Essence within his body didn’t grow a shred.

Could it be that I’ll be like this my whole life?

Chen Xi silently sat cross-legged at the head of the bed at night. Even with his firm and
tenacious disposition, he couldn’t help but feel a shred of dejection.

Chen Xi was used to sitting in meditation and cultivating when his heart was troubled, as
only cultivating would allow him to forget everything.

Circulating the Violet Sky Arts, the spirit energy from the outside transformed into strands
of True Essence as it flowed into the meridians of his entire body and circulated 18
revolutions before being slowly poured into his Dantian.

In the Congenital Realm, a cloud made of True Essence would appear after every increase
in level. This was called the cloud stairway of foundation building. When nine clouds were
condensed, one could establish their violet palace and become a Violet Palace Realm
cultivator that possessed the Dao foundation to officially enter the realm of immortals.

The Violet Sky Arts contained 18 levels in total and was a cultivation technique that was
handed down in the Chen Clan. Chen Xi had cultivated it since he was a child, and he had
already cultivated up to the 13th level, meaning his cultivation was at the 3rd level of the
Congenital Realm. Three violet clouds had already been condensed within his Dantian and
floated within it as they drew upon the traces of True Essence within the meridians
throughout his body.

Kacha!

After a long time, when his body was full of True Essence, Chen Xi ceased cultivating and
was just about to go to bed when he abruptly heard an extremely fine cracking sound.
Although the sound was soft, in this silent night, it seemed extremely clear.

Seeking the source of the sound, his gaze quickly descended onto a longevity lock that was
hanging on his chest. This was something his mother had placed around his neck when he
was born. It was meant to help him grow up in peace without suffering and difficulties.

This longevity lock was also the one and only thing Chen Xi possessed that was related to
his mother, so he treasured it extraordinarily. However, at this moment, numerous cracks
silently appeared like a spider web atop the surface of the longevity lock, and he couldn’t
help but lament in his heart.

What’s going on? Why would cracks appear on the longevity lock for no reason at all?

Chen Xi extended his hand to touch the longevity lock, but to his surprise, his fingertip had
only just touched it when innumerable cracks abruptly covered the entire surface of the
lock. After a clear ding, the surface of the longevity lock shattered into innumerable
fragments that fell and scattered all over him, revealing a matte black jade pendant!

There was actually a jade pendant inside the longevity lock?

Chen Xi could only feel his mind flood with thoughts and was unable to think them through
as he sized up the jade pendant in a daze. The matte black jade pendant was roughly the
size of a longan[1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Longan.] with a perfectly round and
crystal-clear appearance; it seemed like an extremely high quality black pearl.

Could it be that this is a present Mother left for me? But if that’s really the case, why did
she have to conceal it within my longevity lock?

Om!

Right at the moment Chen Xi was bewildered, a burst of primitive and melodious chanting
faintly sounded, like spring water that was gurgling out of a brook, light and pleasing to the
ear. Following the sound was a trace of a dazzling, white light that suddenly surged out
from the surface of the jade pendant!

After a short moment, billions of dense white lights flew out of the pendant and completely
illuminated the entire room, the white light revolving and drifting like mist, seeming like a
scene in a dream.

Chen Xi felt like he was within a dream. Just when he was at a loss for what to do, the
white lights before him abruptly roiled violently. Gradually, a woman wearing a white
dress that was condensed from light appeared out of thin air!

The woman was wearing a fluttering white dress and had features that were as pretty as a
picture. She seemed refined and beautiful with a pair of large, sparkling, clear black eyes,
emitting an air of liveliness and mischievousness.

A  feeling that was both unfamiliar and familiar abruptly arose within Chen Xi’s heart
when he saw her, and he felt a trace of long lost intimacy. He couldn’t help but be curious
about who this woman was and why would she cause him to feel such a tricky feeling.

“Mmm, my darling son, we finally meet again!” The white-clothed woman had her hands
behind her back as she mischievously blinked her eyes at Chen Xi and spoke with a happy
smile. Her clear and melodious voice that was pleasing to the ears was like a tinkling
stream, vivacious and light-hearted.

Chen Xi’s eyes abruptly opened wide after hearing what she said as he gazed at the white-
clothed woman in horror. His face was full of disbelief, not having his usual sedated and
indifferent appearance.

She… Is she really my mother, Zuoqiu Xue?

Chapter 6 - The Manor

Chen Xi was muddled and his head went blank.

This refined and beautiful, mischievous and vivacious woman before my eyes actually said
she’s my mother, she… she…

Chen Xi felt a surge of emotion and was slightly at a loss for what to do. There was no
word that could accurately describe his current state of mind.

His mother vanished when he was two and thus there wasn’t a shred of an impression of
her within his mind. Coupled with him hearing some bad rumors and gossip about his
mother since a young age and his grandfather’s silence on the matter, even if he had a
greater yearning to understand his mother’s past, he still had no choice but to bury these
feelings deep within his heart.

That’s right, deep within his heart.

Because he was afraid that his mother was really like what the rumors described, that she
detested his Chen Clan, abandoned his father, himself, and his younger brother, and eloped
with a young and handsome son of a wealthy family.

He was afraid that if the truth was like that, he wouldn’t be able to control himself and
would completely go mad.

Throughout these years, he’d thought of his mother more than once and forced himself to
forget her afterwards. The suffering and bewilderment during this process was completely
unimaginable to others.

“My darling son, are you surprised to see your mother so young and beautiful? Is it difficult
to accept?” The white-dressed woman giggled and blinked her eyes. “Why, if it was me, I’d
definitely be unable to accept it as well. Can your mother help it that she’s skilled in
retaining her youth?”

“Okay, I don’t have much time left.” The white-dressed woman paused for a moment and
retracted her smile before continuing, “Listen well, my son. You must commit to heart what
I’m about to say next, or else we will probably never have a chance to meet.”

Chen Xi’s heart trembled when he heard her, so he calmed his numerous and disorderly
thoughts.

The white-dressed woman’s eyes revealed a sense of nostalgia, and her beautiful face kept
changing between rage, helplessness, bitterness, resentment…and so on and so forth.

She eventually said, “I was taken away by your uncle because my family didn’t agree to my
marriage with your father. Because of me, and for the sake of upholding the reputation of
their Zuoqiu Clan, they didn’t hesitate to annihilate the entire Chen Clan just for the sake of
expunging this humiliation.”

So mother didn’t elope with someone but instead was taken away by my uncle…

Chen Xi seemed to have freed himself of the shackles that he’d carried for over 10 years,
and his mood couldn’t help but ease up. However, the last part of what she said caused his
mood to fiercely fall into a bottomless chasm before it had time to wildly rejoice.

It was actually the Zuoqiu Clan that Mother’s from that annihilated my Chen Clan?

Chen Xi’s breathing was hurried and his chest felt like a 5,000 kg boulder was pressing
down upon it. Due to the violent change in his feelings, his eyes went black and he nearly
fainted.

He’d spent every waking moment over these past 10 plus years pondering the identity of
the perpetrator of his Chen Clan’s annihilation. He’d decided in his heart that no matter the
difficulties and dangers he would face, he’d definitely kill every single one of them. But
never in his wildest dreams did he imagine that the truth would actually be so unbelievable
and so atrocious!

“Son, you’re really furious, right? Mom’s furious as well! Mom had already broken off all
relations with the Zuoqiu Clan long ago and had even paid the price, but they just refused to
let Mom go.”

Zuoqiu Xue’s voice went lower and lower and gradually got more serious. “The reason is
extremely simple: it’s because Mom and your dad obtained an extraordinary treasure during
one of our travels to experience the vicissitudes of life.”

“Look, that’s precisely it.” She pointed with her delicate hand at the jade pendant that
revolved with white lights, and endless pain and hatred emerged within her eyes.

Chen Xi raised his head to look over and his gaze went dull. At this moment, his mind was
approaching numbness, and he relied on the last strand of intellect within him to listen to
Zuoqiu Xue.

“Have you heard of the River Diagram? It was the most mysterious diagram in the
primordial era. Numerous gods and devils of the primordial era used it to comprehend their
own path in the Dao. They peeked into the secrets of the heavens to master the profound
meaning of the Grand Dao and ascended to the highest summit of the Dao. It was precisely
because of this that every appearance of the River Diagram was accompanied by slaughter.
This slaughter caused upheaval within the three dimensions and disturbed the six paths of
reincarnation. That doomsday-like scene of various figures with remarkable ability fighting
over the River Diagram, just thinking about it sends a chill down one’s spine.”
“Luckily, the River Diagram vanished after the end of the primordial era, and that terrifying
scene of gods and devils entangled in battle never appeared again. It’s probably been
1,000,000 years since then. If it wasn’t for Mom having read the ancient books of the clan
when I was young, I would be completely unaware of the River Diagram’s name,” Zuoqiu
Xue tirelessly spoke with a low and serious voice that carried a trace of nostalgia with it.

However, when Chen Xi heard it, it was like listening to an ancient legend, so it couldn’t
cause a ripple within his heart. An incident from 1,000,000 years was too far away, so far
away that it was completely unable to arouse a shred of interest within him to understand it.

All he knew was that the River Diagram was a treasure, a treasure that could make
everyone slaughter each other madly.

“Concealed within this jade pendant is a rubbing of the River Diagram’s stone inscription,
and a trace of the River Diagram was branded onto it during the rubbing process. Don’t
look down on this brand, because with it, one is capable of locating where the River
Diagram is concealed. The reason mom was taken away and our Chen Clan was annihilated
is precisely because of this jade pendant!”

Zuoqiu Xue’s subsequent words were instead like a warhead detonating within his mind,
completely stunning Chen Xi. His eyes stared fixedly at the jade pendant in  astonishment.

If it was said that he took the River Diagram as an ancient story before, then at this
moment, he abruptly noticed that he’d actually been fortunate enough to be associated with
a trace of the River Diagram’s karma!

He didn’t know whether he should feel fortunate or begrieved, but he already understood
everything. The annihilation of the Chen Clan, his mother leaving and the disappearance of
his father…even the name of jinx, it was all thanks to the jade pendant. If it wasn’t for the
conflict over it, how else would such a tragedy occur to his entire family?

This is probably how a man’s wealth is his own ruin from inducing the greed within
another!

Chen Xi deeply sighed in his heart with endless frustration.

“Supposedly, there’s a cultivation manor that belonged to a primordial being within the
jade pendant. Its interior was made into a dimension of its own that contains various
profound places and items concealed inside, and the River Diagram’s rubbing is only one
of these items. Unfortunately, Mom has never entered it and merely knows of this.”

“I assume your cultivation is at the Congenital Realm since you’re capable of evoking the
spiritual brand Mom left within the jade pendant. Thus, you’re already capable of
establishing ownership of the jade pendant. Keep it! Work hard!”
The silhouette of the white-dressed woman gradually dimmed down and blurred. It seemed
as if it would shatter into pieces in the next moment. Even her voice became hurried. “Son,
you must remember that under no circumstances should you tell anyone about the jade
pendant until you’ve become formidable, including your younger brother. If you do, it will
destroy the hope of our Chen Clan!”

“Don’t worry about Mom’s safety. As long as your strength reaches the Heavenly Immortal
Realm, you’ll be able to meet Mom.”

Her voice lingered in the air as the silhouette of the white-dressed woman completely
shattered and vanished without a trace, the jade pendant that hung from his chest then
returning to normal.

The room once again sunk into darkness and Chen Xi only felt as if he’d had a dream. But
the voice still endlessly lingered at the bottom of his heart, and the jade pendant that hung
on his chest told him that this was no dream, but reality!

He silently sat there in the darkness, and only after a long time did his lips lightly tremble
as he muttered, in a soft voice, “Don’t worry, Mother, your son will definitely find you!”

Chen Xi lost all desire to sleep, so he went and washed his face with cold water. After he
became clear-headed once again, he directed his gaze onto the jade pendant on his chest.

After experiencing everything from before, he understood that his cultivation had stagnated
at the 3rd level of the Congenital Realm for these five years precisely because of this jade
pendant.

The jade pendant had silently siphoned away his True Essence until today, when the energy
within it finally reached saturation and was capable of awakening his mother’s spiritual
brand. From the silhouette of his mother that he saw today, he found out about the matters
that he’d been puzzled about all this time.

He finally found out that he wasn’t a jinx at all, that his natural talent wasn’t bad at all, and
most importantly, he found out that his mother was still alive. Chen Xi was filled with
inspiration because he knew that as long as he became stronger, he would be able to find
his mother!

Heavenly Immortal Realm?

So long as I’m alive, the day will come when I’m capable of establishing my Violet Palace,
charge into the Golden Hall, condense my Ying-Yang Golden Core, break through Rebirth,
become an Enlightened Nether Transformation Master, experience the heavenly
tribulations to become an Earthly Immortal, and comprehend the Grand Dao to ascend to
the Immortal Dimension to become a Heavenly Immortal!
So long as I’m alive, the sworn enemies that killed my grandfather and took away my
younger brother’s right arm, not one of you shall escape!

Chen Xi took a deep breath, and his gaze was steadfast and unwavering.

“A manor that a primordial being used to cultivate is actually within this jade pendant, and
even the River Diagram rubbing is within. I wonder what profound places and items are
inside it? According to what Mother said, the seal on the jade pendant has already been
released, and my Congenital Realm cultivation is already capable of establishing
ownership of the manor. I wonder if it’s true…?”

Chen Xi recalled his mother’s words and hesitated for a moment, then he resolutely gritted
his teeth, divided a portion of the True Essence within his body and poured it into the jade
pendant.

A trace of a gentle luster gushed out from the surface of the jade pendant and revolved, then
converged to form a deep and quiet black hole.

At almost the exact same time, a suction force that could not be resisted gushed out from
within the black hole. Chen Xi was caught off guard and it was too late to struggle, so his
entire body was drawn into the black hole.

Om!

The black hole broke apart bit by bit and vanished.

The entire room sunk into darkness once more and then returned to normal; however, Chen
Xi was nowhere to be found.

Chen Xi was standing on a vast and magnificent space. An array of stars flickered and
fluttered atop the sky above him like a group of fireflies that fluttered about in the air. A
chilly, silver light that was like a waterfall gracefully shone down, giving off an unreal
feeling.

Beneath his feet was a soft, dark green grassland that stretched out into the distance without
an end.

He was standing all alone under the night sky filled with an array of stars. The starlight
coiled around his body like fireflies; it was as if he was in the wilderness, and everything
seemed so unreal.

Could this be that primordial being’s cultivation manor?

Chen Xi scanned his surroundings, but he didn’t notice a single building that could be
considered a manor. On top of his bewilderment, he couldn’t help but secretly become
vigilant.

The unknown is the fundamental source of fear. It was precisely because of this that Chen
Xi didn’t dare to carelessly move about and gathered absolute concentration as he carefully
watched his surroundings.

After standing there for a long time, Chen Xi’s legs became sore, but the surroundings still
remained quiet without a single sound, as though there were no other living beings besides
him here.

“Could it be that this manor doesn’t exist at all?” Chen Xi lay on his back atop the thick
grass as he gazed at the dense array of stars in the sky that flickered and fluttered about. He
couldn’t wrap his head around it.

Something’s off!

Not everything within this space is inanimate, and those stars... Aren’t they revolving
endlessly as if they’re alive? The stars in the outside world don’t fly around like this!

Chen Xi’s eyes sprang wide when he realized this, and he gazed fixedly at the array of stars
that fluttered in the sky and carefully observed them.

The sky was like a veil with dazzling stars sprinkled all over. The stars were moving
around in an infinite variety of trajectories that were unique to themselves and with varying
speeds. They followed a complicated and profound trajectory as they whizzed and whirled
in the air.

If it was an ordinary person in his place, they would probably be dazzled the moment they
saw this scene, but Chen Xi was fascinated as he gazed upon it.

Using a myriad of stars as the tip of a brush, using the veil of the night sky as the talisman
paper, the drawing of the brush seems to be in a chaotic state, but it’s actually orderly. Not
only does it guarantee the individual stars’ continuous movement, they move about in
harmony, full of life and vitality. Truly extraordinary… Chen Xi, who was immersed in his
fascination, didn’t notice that the spots of chilly starlight that shone down from above were
slowly converging into a diagram…
Chapter 7 - Ji Yu

Chen Xi was immersed within a myriad of profound emotions.

He had forgotten his surroundings as well as his current location; only the trajectory of the
millions upon millions of stars that cycled endlessly could be seen within his eyes. The
length and thickness of these trajectories varied, perhaps intricately winding, perfectly
straight like a spear, bending in arcs, or even spiralling in circles. It seemed like talisman
markings with varied strokes.

Chen Xi seemed to be able to see an indistinct hand of giant proportions. It used the sky as
talisman paper, the millions upon millions of stars as a talisman brush, and a talisman
crafting technique beyond imagination to freely create extraordinary and profound talisman
markings that were difficult to comprehend.

He couldn’t help himself from wanting to exclaim in admiration, but was utterly
speechless. He wanted to commit the trajectories to memory, but noticed that those
trajectories seemed to possess traces that could be followed, only, he didn’t know how.
Hence, he didn’t fret about it nor pay any more attention to it. He purely observed and
admired. Following this, his mind became tranquil, his thoughts clear and peaceful.

Om!

The hum of strange chanting slowly increased in volume and gradually began to resound
through the entire heaven and earth.

The icy rays of light from the million upon millions of stars converged together,
transforming into a scroll painting which emanated with clear light. Accompanied by the
strange chanting, the scroll painting abruptly released infinite streams of light which
engulfed the entire sky, carrying away the stars that filled the sky and returning it to the
scroll painting!

Whoosh!

The scroll painting bundled up into a bind before transforming into a wisp of clear light
with a speed that was visible to the naked eye. Shockingly, as It burst forth, its direction
was precisely where Chen Xi stood.

A trace of fear abruptly arose within Chen Xi’s heart before he startled from his completely
oblivious state. However, before he could react, he only felt his head buzzing. In the next
moment, an enormous statue of a skinny old man appeared within his sea of consciousness.
The old man was barefooted and wore linen clothes; his white hair drooped down, and he
sat cross-legged in the air as he looked up into the distant sky with a gaze that was as deep
and profound as a star.
This enormous statue of the old man was entirely simple and unsophisticated, but emitted
traces of a vast and aged aura, causing one’s entire mind to involuntarily be drawn to it.

What happened? Who’s this old man?

Chen Xi gazed at the scene before him in shock before immediately closing his eyes and
pondering within his heart. I was unquestionably observing the trajectory of the stars, why
did such a change occur within my sea of consciousness without rhyme or reason?

“How many years has it been? A disciple that is capable of inheriting Master’s mantle has
finally appeared! Hahahaha!”

A low and hoarse voice abruptly resounded in his ears. Chen Xi’s body trembled and he
was unable to ponder anything else as he quickly opened his eyes. When he saw the
scenery around him clearly, he couldn’t help but be extremely startled.

The night sky that was studded in stars had disappeared and a large river that moved like a
great floor had appeared on the boundless delicate green grassland. The river surged with
waves, and water splashed in all directions. The long river stretched forward, its end
beyond  sight. In the centre of the large river stood a lone mountain that shot straight into
the sky, it’s exterior dark and surface barren.

Suddenly, a monster with a single horn walked out from within the large river. It had the
body of a lion and the head of a dragon.  Each giant cloven hoof was the size of a pillar and
stood on clouds. Its entire body was covered in dense scales that were jet-black, its eyes
were clear and gave off a sense of experience that had insight into all things on earth.

Qi…Qilin?[1. A Qilin is a mythical creature that’s thought to occasion prosperity and

serenity. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qilin ]

Chen Xi couldn’t help but let out a breath of cold air when he saw this monster and felt the
terrifying aura that was emitted from its body, his heart thumping wildly.

He’d only seen the description of a Qilin in books. Allegedly, a Qilin was one of the
famous divine beasts in the primordial era. Innately capable of manipulating the 5 elements
and possessing great wisdom, even within the primordial era where gods and devils moved
about freely, there were few that dared offend a Qilin, thus showing how terrifying its
strength was.

At this moment, a monster that was similar to a Qilin appeared before him, even Chen Xi
whose disposition had been tempered to be firm and tenacious like a rock since long ago,
still felt a burst of inexpressible nervousness.

“There’s no need to be afraid. I’m the spirit of the Manor, and my Master gave me the
name Ji Yu. I’ve been looking after the Manor for my Master for over 1 million years.” The
low and hoarse voice sounded once more, but resounded out from within the mouth of the
monster that seemed like a Qilin.

So he’s Ji Yu. Chen Xi slightly heaved a sigh of relief, before abruptly realizing that if the
monster before him had actually lived for 1,000,000 years, then wouldn’t that mean that
this Manor has existed for over a million years?

“Junior Chen Xi greets Senior. May I ask Senior, is this really the place of cultivation of the
primordial being?” Chen Xi respectfully asked. Even if it was really a monster before him,
it still wasn’t an existence he could be disrespectful to.

“Precisely, this is indeed my Master’s place of cultivation.” Ji Yu walked forward and sized
up Chen Xi for a moment, then spoke in surprise and bewilderment, “Congenital Realm?
Your strength is so weak. How is it possible that you’re able to obtain the true essence of
my Master’s inheritance?”

Chen Xi asked in puzzlement, “What true essence of inheritance?”

Ji Yu, however, paid no attention to him and bitterly pondered for a long time, then
abruptly said, “Kid, you’re a qi refiner that sought the Dao through use of talismans?”

Sought the Dao through use of talismans? Chen Xi was perplexed as he shook his head and
said, “I merely know how to craft some basic talismans.”

Ji Yu had an expression of sudden enlightenment as he sighed and said, “Right enough,

Master originally sought the Dao through deducing the secrets of heaven. Choosing you to
inherit his mantle is within reason.”

Chen Xi was even more bewildered and couldn’t stop himself from saying, “Senior, what’s
actually going on? When did I inherit his mantle?”

Ji Yu stared at Chen Xi with a bizarre gaze as he said, “You possess a strand of the True
Body Brand of my Master within your sea of consciousness. Could it be that you’re
unaware?”

Chen Xi recalled the statue of the old man that emitted a vast and aged aura within his sea
of consciousness, and couldn’t help but say in astonishment, “That grandpa is your
Master?”

Ji Yu was startled and shook his head as he sighed, “Looks like you indeed know nothing.”

Chen Xi was embarrassed in his heart, but respectfully said, “I hope Senior is able to
inform me.”

Ji Yu was silent for a long moment, then slowly opened his mouth to say, “A million years
ago, my Master once stipulated that when he left, that only one who was capable of
obtaining his True Body Brand within the Star Secret Realm’s test is qualified to inherit his
mantle. And you are the only one within all these years. In other words, you already
possess the qualification to become my Master’s disciple.”

Chen Xi suddenly realized that the entire sky filled with stars that he saw earlier was
probably the Star Secret Realm. However, even this is considered a test? I only observed
the trajectory cycle of the stars for some time, and I obtained the True Body Brand of the
Manor’s Master? Isn’t it a little too simple?

Seeming to have seen through Chen Xi’s thoughts, Ji Yu grunted coldly, “Do you know
how many experts have wanted to obtain my Master’s True Body Brand over the course of
a million years?”

“I can tell you precisely, an entire 6,983 people! Among these people are experts at the
Rebirth Realm, Nether Transformation Realm, Earthly Immortal Realm, and even peerless
experts at the Heavenly Immortal Realm weren’t a small number! Even the person with the
lowest cultivation was at the Yin-Yang Golden Core Realm. Now, do you think it’s
simple?”

Not waiting for Chen Xi to speak, Ji Yu arrogantly raised his head as he said coldly, “If it
wasn’t for you using the heart of one who possesses the Dao of talismans to comprehend
the Star Secret Realm, and also possessing pretty good comprehension, I’m afraid you’d
have been minced to death by the Star Universe!”

Chen Xi was struck with terror as he said in shock, “Minced to death by the Star
Universe?”

Ji Yu nodded, “Right, the Star Secret Realm is peerlessly profound, and covers all
phenomena of the universe. If one is unable to leave the Star Secret Realm within an hour,
then one would surely be buried within, and one’s soul and spirit will disperse.”

Speaking up to here, Ji Yu slightly sighed with emotion, “Those capable of entering the
Manor are all experts of that age that possessed extraordinary strength, however, more than
half of them still fell within the Star Secret Realm, and only a handful of people
successfully walked out of the Star Secret Realm. These people were similar to you, and
comprehended some of the truth of the Dao that Master left behind within the Star Secret
Realm. But unfortunately, there’s no one before you that was able to obtain the True Body
Brand that Master left behind, and naturally weren’t fated to possess the qualification to
become my Master’s disciple.”

Chen Xi asked wonderingly, “What happened to those people? How would they be willing
to leave?”

Ji Yu said coldly, “Of course they weren’t willing. Originally, the truth of the Dao they’d
comprehended from within the Star Secret Realm was already sufficient for them to study
throughout their life and obtain boundless benefits. But, there were still some among them
that were too obstinate, and attempted to obtain my Master’s inheritance. So they
stubbornly ascended the Heavenpeak of Trials, and in the end their body and spirit were
annihilated.”

Speaking up to here, Ji Yu faced the large river and pointed at the lone mountain at the
center of the large river, “Look, that’s the Heavenpeak of Trials, and is divided into 18
levels of trials. Only by passing through all the trials would one be able to obtain the
complete inheritance my Master left behind. Most of those people that stubbornly ascended
the Heavenpeak of Trials died in the first 3 trials, whereas the most formidable amongst
them, a peerless sword immortal from 100,000 years ago that had a cultivation that attained
the peak of the sword Dao, was only capable of arriving at the 13th level of the trials before
falling to his demise.”

Chen Xi shuddered with fear as he listened, and couldn’t help but asked as he gazed at the
lone mountain at the centre of the large river, “Then if I want to obtain the complete
inheritance, do I need to pass all the 18 trials of that Heavenpeak?”

“Of course. But you aren’t the same as them, as you’ve obtained my Master’s True Body
Brand. You will only be injured while ascending the trials of Heavenpeak, and will not face
a threat to your life.” Ji Yu casually said.

Chen Xi secretly heaved a sigh of relief, as he couldn’t help but be worried since even that
peerless sword immortal lost his life at the 13th level of the trials. He who only had a
cultivation at the 3rd level of the Congenital Realm would probably be unable to pass even
the 1st level.

Ji Yu reminded, “Even though there’s no threat to your life, I’ll still advise you against
trying to pass the trials now. Your strength is too weak after all, even to the extent you have
the weakest strength I’ve seen in my entire life. I’m not ridiculing you, but placed in the
primordial era, a fellow like you would merely be slightly stronger than a newborn infant.”

Only slightly stronger than a newborn infant?

Chen Xi was unwilling to accept it in his heart, but when he thought about how the being
before him was a monster that had lived for a million over years, he could only deeply bury
this unwillingness at the bottom of his heart and ask, “Senior, then when will I be able to
pass the 1st level of the Heavenpeak of Trials?”

Ji Yu was startled and asked wonderingly, “Tell me. Why are you so eager to pass the
trials?”

Chen Xi replied without a shred of hesitation, “I want to become strong, to take revenge for
my grandfather, to take revenge for my Chen Clan, and I want to become a Heavenly
Immortal to meet my mother!”
Ji Yu came to a sudden understanding and pondered for a moment, then said slowly, “Now
that you’ve obtained my Master’s True Body Brand, so long as nothing unexpected
happens, there will surely come a day that you’re able to fulfil your desire. But your body is
incomparably frail and your cultivation is pitiably weak. If you want to cultivate to the
Heavenly Immortal Realm, it will probably be a long journey.”

Chen Xi’s gaze was steadfast as he said calmly, “No matter how difficult, I’ll never give
up. I will absolutely not give up!”

Ji Yu’s eyes that had experienced the many vicissitudes of life flashed with a trace of
admiration, then lifted his head to gaze at the Heavenpeak before saying arrogantly,
“You’re the one and only person in a million years that obtained the True Body Brand my
Master left behind. So long as you cultivate diligently, not to mention revenge or becoming
a Heavenly Immortal, even going further is something that’s within reason. In those days,
my Master had mastered the Grand Dao, and walked upon the…”

The voice stopped abruptly as Ji Yu seemed to have realized something and held his
tongue.

Chen Xi however didn’t notice all this, as he was just pondering about what secrets were
actually held within the True Body Brand within his sea of consciousness that the Master of
the Manor left behind, and how it would help him become strong.

Besides that, the River Diagram rubbing that mother spoke about, where within the Manor
is it placed?
Chapter 8 - Fuxi Divine Statue

“This strand of his True Body Brand that my Master left behind is called the Fuxi Divine
Statue,[1. Fuxi is a hero in Chinese legend and mythology who’s credited with creating
humanity and inventing hunting, fishing and cooking. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuxi ]
and it contains my Master’s comprehension on the numerous secrets of the Grand Dao. By
constantly visualizing and comprehending it, not only would it allow your soul to
strengthen with each passing day, it’s also beneficial towards your comprehension of the
Grand Dao. Most importantly, since you possess this strand of True Body Brand, you’re
able to cultivate the supreme body refinement technique: Universe Starslayer Body Forging
Arts!”

Before Chen Xi could even speak, Ji Yu seemed to have already seen through Chen Xi’s
thoughts and slowly said, “Back in the primordial era, everyone thought that my Master had
observed the River Diagram to deduce the profound meaning behind the cycle of the secrets
of heaven in order to gain sudden comprehension of the Grand Dao and ascend to the peak
realm. No one knew that my Master’s entire body had already attained transcendence
before he had even started to observe the River Diagram. His body refining arts were even
sufficient to establish his own orthodoxy to last for generations.”

“Unfortunately, my Master left in too much of a hurry and only managed leave behind the
Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts.”

Ji Yu fell silent after he finished, seemingly immersed within an endless recollection of

memories as he sighed silently.

Chen Xi silently digested the information that Ji Yu had divulged moments ago, his heart
surging like the waves. He momentarily forgot how to speak, but eventually found the
nerves to ask : “Senior, I heard someone say that a River Diagram rubbing is concealed
within this Manor, I wonder if it’s true?”

Ji Yu was startled, and his gaze was fixed at Chen Xi as he said with a strange voice, “Even
now, you still don’t understand? The strand of True Body Brand was left behind by my
Master after observing the River Diagram to comprehend the secrets of heaven, and
originally contained a strand of the River Diagram’s True Essence. Now that you’ve
obtained the True Body Brand, it’s equal to having obtained a strand of the River
Diagram’s True Essence. What’re you thinking of the rubbing for?”

Chen Xi came to a sudden realization, so the River Diagram rubbing was just a snowball of
rumors. The genuine River Diagram’s True Essence was actually held within the True
Body Brand of the Master of the Manor.

I accidentally obtained it via a chance encounter, maybe I can rely on it to acquire the real
River Diagram in the future!
“Alright, I’ve told you all that I can. Do you have any other questions?” Ji Yu swayed his
head of a dragon and had a rather friendly bearing; obviously he’d taken Chen Xi as a
worthy successor to his Master’s mantle.

“I…” Chen Xi opened his mouth, but realized that he had just too many questions to ask,
and for a moment didn’t know which one he should ask first.

Ji Yu could not stop himself from guiding. “Your current strength is weak, and your
physique is extremely frail. I think there would be no harm if you started cultivating the
Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts first. When your cultivation in body refinement and
qi refinement have both attained the Violet Palace Realm of cultivation, you should be
capable of passing the 1st trial of the Heavenpeak when you enter the Manor again, and
thus obtain the corresponding rewards. As for other matters, there’s no use in thinking too
much about them.”

Chen Xi said in panic, “But, I still don’t know where the Universe Starslayer Body Forging
Arts are. How do I cultivate?”

Ji Yu made nothing of it, “I’ll naturally pass it down to you when you leave. Do you have
any other questions? If there are none, then I’ll pass down the technique to you and send
you on your way.”

“Senior, wait.” Chen Xi hurriedly said, “You said earlier that I’d obtain a corresponding
reward when I pass the 1st level of the Heavenspeak of Trials. Is that anything for me to
pay attention to?”

Ji Yu shook his head, “I’m only the spirit of the Manor, how would I know all this?
However I do know that when you’ve passed the 1st level of the trials, a mere day would
have passed in the outside world for every 3 days you cultivate within the Manor, thus it’s
extremely beneficial to your cultivation.”

Controlling the changes in time?

Chen Xi let out a deep breath of cold air, and was extremely shocked in his heart, such an
ability was practically heaven defying!

Thinking about it, if only a day passed in the outside world when I cultivate in the Manor
for 3 days, then wouldn’t I have cultivated an extra 2 days more than anyone else? If I
were to stay here every day, wouldn’t that mean…?

Then more he thought about it, the more excited Chen Xi became, to the extent that he was
slightly afraid he wouldn’t be able to bear such a pleasant surprise. He was only at the 3rd
level of the Congenital Realm now and had lived within Pine Mist City since he was young.
How would he have known that a heaven defying ability to control time existed in the
world?
“If you’re able to pass the 2nd trial of Heavenpeak, staying here for 9 days is comparable to
1 day in the outside world. Pass the 3rd level and it would be extended to 81 days, and
future trials and rewards would continue to be multiplied in this manner. Eventually when
you pass the 18th level, you can cultivate here at will because to the outside world, time
would be completely frozen.”

Ji Yu continued as if he was completely oblivious to Chen Xi’s  state of mind, “But don’t
get happy too early, the 1st level of the Heavenpeak of Trials isn’t that easy to pass. With
your current cultivation, entering the trial is no different than courting death. You’d best put
your mind on increasing your cultivation. Diligently cultivating is the most important thing
you have to do now.”

Chen Xi quickly calmed down. Yeah, the body refinement and qi refinement cultivation
must both attain the Violet Palace Realm to pass the 1st level of the trials. Then what about
the 2nd  level? What cultivation would be needed? Even the later 3rd level, 4th level…
Until the 18th level. How could it be something that I can casually pass?

One must work hard to gain a return. If I don’t bitterly cultivate with great effort, and only
think of borrowing the strength of external things, how would it be possible for me to
become a true expert?

Desires and distracting thoughts cause Inner Demons, if I were to keep thinking about
resorting to the easy way for everything, I’ll probably never possess the makings to step
onto the road of immortality!

At this point, Chen Xi completely awoke from his previous inexpressible shock and
excitement, noticing that his entire body was drenched in cold sweat. When he raised his
head to look at Ji Yu, he instead noted that this Qilin-like spirit was using that pair of eyes
that had experienced the vicissitudes in life to stare fixedly at him. It was as if he was able
to see through all the thoughts within his heart, causing Chen Xi to be unable to stop
himself from feeling a sense of shame.

“My Master once said that only one with a clear and firm heart is capable of
comprehending beyond the limits of  the comprehension of an ordinary person and
traversing to the peak of the Grand Dao. Chen Xi, don’t fail to live up to my Master’s
expectations.”

Ji Yu abruptly stepped on the clouds to rise, and howled loudly towards the sky with a
voice that was like rolling thunder, rumbling and exploding within the confines of both
heaven and earth. The single horn atop his head turned to point at Chen Xi before a 5
colored ray of light swiftly shot out towards Chen Xi and vanished upon entering his body.

Chen Xi only felt his vision go black, and in the next moment he’d already appeared within
his room.
“What mother said is really true. Now, not only have I obtained the acknowledgement of
the spirit of the Manor and the True Body Brand left behind by the Master of the Manor,
I’ve even indirectly managed to acquire a strand of the River Diagram’s True Essence. So
long as I remain diligent in my cultivation, I’ll surely be able to become strong!” Chen Xi
couldn’t help but let out a long breath as he looked at all the familiar things within his
room.

Pondering for a moment, he once again arrived within his sea of consciousness and
couldn’t help but once again sigh in amazement as he gazed upon the Fuxi Divine Statue
that emitted a vast and aged aura.

Observing the River Diagram to develop the Dao related to the cycle of the secrets of
heaven, then ascending the peak of the Grand Dao. Could it be that this senior’s name is
Fuxi? I wonder what realm of cultivation he attained?

After silently gazing at it for a long time, Chen Xi extended his hand to grab a wisp of the 5
colored lights that floated before him. The ball of lights was left within his sea of
consciousness by the spirit of the Manor, Ji Yu, before he left. It ought to be the supreme
body refinement technique the Master of the Manor left behind, the Universe Starslayer
Body Forging Arts!

Whoosh!

The moment the tip of his finger touched it, the 5 colored lights instantly transformed into a
countless amount of fluttering stars.If one were to look carefully, those stars were
impressively composed of ancient character seals that were the size of a palm. The seals
were suffused with beautiful and brilliant wavering lights, as if they were a living being
filled with vitality. fluttering lightly in the air and brimming with wonderful charm.

“Condense!” A melodious voice that was clear and light abruptly sounded. The single word
revealed a dignified aura of looking down and controlling the entire world, causing one to
involuntarily have the intention to submit and worship arise within their heart.

Not waiting for Chen Xi to discern the source of the voice, the fluttering and drifting string
of beautiful characters abruptly aligned, gathering into an orderly piece of writing. Each
character emitted millions upon millions of misty lights!

Chen Xi raised his head to look and only felt his mind buzz as the lines of profound
characters that were difficult to comprehend were like a gurgling stream as they poured into
his mind, unable to be dispersed like a brand.

“It really is the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts. What a peculiar body refinement
technique!”
After Chen Xi quickly ran over it, his heart gave birth to endless shock. It’s aim was to
draw upon the baleful energy of the star universe and temper the body! There’s actually
such a body refinement technique in the world?

Compared to qi refiners, the status of body refiners in Pine Mist City was extremely low.
People who chose the path of body refinement were ordinarily all people who were
penniless and dejected. They tempered their physiques for the sake of obtaining a job to
support their families, such as workers in the quarry and store errand runners; they were no
different from laborers.

The reason was that body refinement was too arduous and painful, and the conditions for
advancement were harsh to the point of being infuriating. Although the path of qi
refinement had extremely harsh requirements towards natural talent, as long as one were to
cultivate diligently, it was a far easier path to tread. Naturally, the amount of people who
took the path of body refinement was significantly reduced.

Most importantly, even if one’s natural talent was terrible, so long as one walked on the
path of qi refinement, one would be completely capable of obtaining a relaxed and
respectable job within Pine Mist City. The qi refiners such as botanists who raised spirit
crops and spirit medicine, tamers who raised spirit birds and demon beasts, spirit chefs who
cooked delicacies, and apprentices in workshops and retail shops specializing in talisman
crafting, weapons refinement, and pill refinement—they were  all way better off than body
refinement laborers, whether it was in treatment, status, or income.

Chen Xi had lived in the slums of Pine Mist City since he was young and frequently saw
many body refiners who were laborers, thus he was extremely clear of the circumstances
they lived in. It was precisely because of this that he’d never once considered the path of
body refinement.

However, after seeing the profundity of the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts with his
own eyes, Chen Xi completely changed his mind.

After all, he had learned that the Master of that spirit of the Manor, Senior Fuxi, had
attained the realm of being and was capable of establishing his own orthodoxy that would
last for generations solely by relying upon his body refinement technique. How would Chen
Xi dare look upon body refiners after that?

“From today onwards, besides talisman crafting and qi refinement, I also have to cultivate
the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts, thus the time available for me to use is
becoming more pressed. However, so long it can allow me to become strong, all of this will
be worth it.” Chen Xi silent pondered and planned, then abruptly recalled something.
According to what Senior Ji Yu said, constantly visualizing the True Body Brand that the
Master of the Manor left behind would temper my soul to become stronger with each
passing day. Most importantly, when my soul has reached a certain level, I can master the
River Diagram’s True Essence and then look for the true place the River Diagram is
concealed…
Thinking up to here, Chen Xi couldn’t help but shake his head. Senior Fuxi observed the
River Diagram to comprehend the Grand Dao, but that was because his strength had long
since attained a terrifying level, whereas my cultivation is merely at the Congenital Realm.
Even if I’m fortunate enough to obtain the River Diagram now, I’m afraid I wouldn’t be
able to discern anything, and it would bring me nothing but harm. The pressing matter at
hand is still for me to increase my cultivation.

Chen Xi only felt that his entire body had been filled with vigor once he had straightened
out his thoughts. Seeing that the sky was glimmering with daybreak, he wasn’t willing to
stay in bed any longer. After washing his face in a hurry, Chen Xi was just planning to
wake his younger brother up to train in the sword when he noticed the figure of his younger
brother had long since disappeared from the room, and he couldn’t help but be startled. It’s
so early, where’s little brother gone?

Chen Xi walked out of the house and didn’t notice Chen Hao’s figure training his
swordsmanship in the courtyard, so Chen Xi couldn’t help but be even more bewildered in
his heart. Ever since little brother’s right hand was crippled, he hardly left the house, and
every time he went out he would always notify me. What’s going on today?

Sure enough, right at this moment, Xixi ran all the way into the courtyard, and hurriedly
waved her small hand when she noticed Chen Xi. She cried out while panting for breath,
“Big Brother Chen Xi, Chen Hao fought with someone, hurry up and go take a look!”

Chen Xi’s heart tightened and asked, “Xixi, where did this happen?”

Xixi obediently replied, “Skystar Swordsmanship Institution. It’s my mother who asked me
to come notify you, my mom already went over.”

————

Skystar Swordsmanship Institution?

Chen Xi frowned as a bad premonition arose within his heart.

Chapter 9 - Skystar Institution

The eastern area of Pine Mist City had a quiet and well-ordered environment. It occupied a
quarter of the city that was also called the Institution District, as innumerable institutions of
various sizes stood within the district.

The Skystar Swordsmanship Institution was one of them.

Among the various institutions, the Skystar Swordsmanship Institution was rather famous,
as its ranking was second only to the Pine Mist Institution, and Mountain Mist Institution
was ranked third.

For parents in Pine Mist City, when they chose an institution for their children, the Pine
Mist Institution would naturally be their first chose. However, due to its disciple selection
conditions being exceedingly harsh, only a handful of lucky children were able to enter it.

The Mountain Mist Institution only recruited female students with superb natural talent,
causing most people to stop in their tracks.

Only the Skystar Institution wasn’t restricted by any conditions. So long as one paid an
extremely high price of spirit stones, one could enter the institution to learn. Thus, among
the institutions that were ranked in the top 3, the Skystar Institution would undoubtedly be
in the lead in terms of the amount of students.

Outside the gates of the Skystar Swordsmanship Institution.

Chen Hao’s expression was livid, and he remained silent with a puckered face.

Opposite of him stood a youth in fine clothes that was around 13 or 14 years old. His face
was beaten black and blue, but his triangular eyes revealed a sense of complacency.

“It’s Chen Hao who was in the wrong this time, and we’ve paid all the medicinal costs. I
hope Manager Wu can give him a way out and let him off this once.” At the side, Bai
Wanqing was negotiating with a gaunt middle aged man and had an apologetic expression.

The gaunt middle aged man leered at Bai Wanqing as he sized her up and only shook his
head after a while, “How is that ok? My Young Master is the youngest son the Patriarch
dotes on the most, when has he ever suffered such humiliation? We would rather not have
the medical costs, just to make that kid pay a heavy price. Humph! Bullying my Li Clan
disciple? How could I let him off so easily?”

Bai Wanqing forced a smiled and said, “Then what you mean is?”

Manager Wu rubbed his chin as he said with a grin, “Didn’t I already say it clearly?
However, I can let that kid off so long as he admits his fault by kneeling down and
kowtowing to my Young Master and hands over 300 spirit stones as compensation. Only
then will this matter be forgotten. How about it?”

Bai Wanqing forcefully endured the rage in her heart as she said in a low voice, “Manager
Wu, how about this? Let Chen Hao apologize, but can he not kneel?”

Manager Wu laughed out loud before restraining his smile and saying in disdain,
“Impossible!”

Bai Wanqing was at a loss on what to do and her expression was anxious, without a trace of
her refined and calm disposition anymore.

“Aunt Bai, why are you talking so much nonsense with him? Isn’t it just being expelled? I
don’t need to study at this institution anymore!”

Chen Hao had long since been angered to the point that he clenched his teeth and couldn’t
stand aside and watch any longer when he noticed Bai Wanqing was having a hard time and
on the brink of tears. He stood out and pointed at the youth in fine clothes, then said in a
cold voice, “Li Ming, I’ll still bash you when I see you the next time, you spineless thing!
Finding help when your skills are inferior to another, to think that you’re a member of the
Li Clan. You’re really thrown your old man’s face! Aunt Bai, let’s go.” Chen Hao pulled
Bai Wanqing’s hand and turned around to leave as soon as he finished speaking.

Li Ming burst out into a rage as he cried out in a sharp voice, “You dare insult me? You…
you…you… Manager Wu, what are you standing around for? Didn’t you see him insult
me? Bash that bastard for me!”

Motherfucker, if it wasn’t out of consideration for your father, I really couldn’t care less
about you!  

Manager Wu had been roared at until malicious flames leapt up within his heart, and he
was extremely furious. His body swayed and he was already blocking Chen Hao and Bai
Wanqing as he said in a gloomy voice, “The matter hasn’t been resolved and you two want
to leave?”

Chen Hao was still fearless as before and said in disdain, “I fought Li Ming, so the
institution expelled me, and I’ve resigned myself to it. So, according to what was provided
by the Dean Yu Ze, the score between me and Li Ming is settled once and for all. So, so
long as you dare to injure me and Aunt Bai now, you’ll surely regret it.”

Manager Wu smiled gloomily, “You’re just a kid who hasn’t even grown out the hairs on
your balls, but you’re spouting such lofty sentiments. The score was settled once and for
all? Is that possible? Now I want to know, how will you make me regret it?” As he spoke,
he spread out his hand and the imposing manner of his entire body abruptly changed to an
appearance that seemed like he would attack if he didn’t agree with a single word Chen
Hao said next.
“Manager Wu, bash him! This kid only knows to be stubborn!” Li Ming yelled out, and his
triangular eyes were filled with hatred and excitement.

Chen Hao’s expression was extremely calm as before and he said coldly, “It’s extremely
simple. I’ll tell the Skystar Institution that your Li Clan utterly pays no regard to the
decision of the Dean Yu Ze. I’ll also head to the General’s Estate and let the Grand General
know that your Li Clan challenged the authority of the General’s Estate by starting trouble
and initiating a fight within Pine Mist City! Unless you kill me right now, but do you
dare?”

Manager Wu’s expression froze and his complexion was unsettled. What Chen Hao said
had indeed stabbed his weak spot, and the only reason he hesitated so long and hadn’t
attacked was precisely out of consideration for this.

The General’s Estate ruled over the entire Pine Mist City and represented the will of the
Darchu Dynasty. It had already ordered the prohibition of cultivators battling within the
city.  Once a violation was discovered, the violator’s cultivation would be crippled before
being banished to the mining district to be enslaved. Not to mention a tiny little manager,
even the Li Clan patriarch wouldn’t dare take a step beyond the prohibition.

Although the Skystar Institutions strength wasn’t comparable to the Li Clan, Dean Yu Ze
was a 6th star Violet Palace Realm expert whose battle strength was ranked 3rd within Pine
Mist City.

What should I do?

Manage Wu’s struggled incomparably within his heart.

Bai Wanqing was extremely amazed as she looked at Chen Hao’s calm and immature small
face, truly unable to imagine how he was actually able to deliver his sonorous and forceful
speech with such a clear arrangement.

“Manager Wu, he’s from an impoverished family that lives in the commoner district and
his brother is a famous jinx. Even if we bash him, out of consideration for our Li Clan, the
General’s Estate and the Skystar Institution would surely choose to stand by idly. What are
you hesitating for?”

Li Ming couldn’t help himself from crying out anxiously when he saw Manager Wu
hesitating and indeterminate, “Even if something were to happen; don’t you still have me?”

Right, this little ancestor is there to help me take the heat, why would I still be afraid of the
Patriarch disregarding me?

Manager Wu finally made a decision, and coldly said, “Don’t worry Young Master, if I
don’t break the legs of that kid, I’ll be ashamed towards the care and upbringing the
Patriarch provided me!”
Manager Wu brazenly attacked right after he finished speaking. True Essence flowed out
from his hand to form a pair of sharp talons that fiercely clawed at Chen Hao.

Chen Hao had long since noticed it wasn’t going well. When Manager Wu had just finished
speaking, he pushed Bai Wanqing away and dodged swiftly at the same time, barely
avoiding the sharp talons that came at him.

A strong gust of wind swept at his face, scraping it Chen Hao’s face to the point of pain,
and he couldn’t help but be astonished in his heart. Could this old dog be a Violet Palace
Realm cultivator?

“Humph! Let me see how long you can dodge!” Seeing Chen Hao dodging his claw attack
caused Manager Wu to be slightly started, following which he snorted coldly and the True
Essence within his entire body surged. A pitch-black sheen appeared on his pair of palms
that were skinny like bamboo, and a shocking aura swept out.

Swoosh!

Manager Wu’s figure swayed to appear before Chen Hao like a ghost, his palms like
butterflies flitting through the flowers as they transformed into palm images that covered
the sky, instantly sealing all Chen Hao’s paths of escape.

Chen Hao was forced into a corner, and instead took a step forward, entirely disregarding
the palm images that covered the sky. His right fist was wrapped up in the True Essence
that madly poured out from his body and fiercely smashed his fist towards Manager Wu,
with an appearance that showed he would put his life on the line to injure Manager Wu.

This was also an action Chen Hao had no choice but to take, as even though he’d broken
through to the Congenital Realm, but is foundation was still shallow and was far from being
Manager Wu’s match. Only by putting his life on the line would he perhaps be able to
retrieve a trace of a chance at survival.

As expected, Manager Wu was completely unwilling to suffer an injury alongside Chen

Hao and quickly retreated two steps. He then changed his palm into a fist, and fiercely
knocked it into Chen Hao’s approaching fist.

Bang!

The colliding fists emitted a bang that was oppressive like thunder, and the dissipating True
Essence blew out currents of air that wrecked the surroundings, causing dust and dirt to
swirl in the air.

Chen Hao stomped hard on the ground as he continuously retreated 10 steps before spitting
out a large mouthful of blood. His small face instantly became white as a sheet as he’d
suffered internal injuries.
“Little Hao!” Bai Wanqing couldn’t help but exclaim lightly. She wasn’t skilled in battle
and was utterly unable to help. For a moment her heart was torn with anxiety and she was
at a loss of what to do.

After forcefully colliding fists with Chen Hao, Manager Wu didn’t move an inch and was
wasn’t injured in the slightest. He gazed at Chen Hao in disdain as he coldly said, “Only at
the 1st level of the Congenital Realm and you dare fight me? Let me cripple your legs
obediently!”

As soon as he finished speaking, his body swayed before once again appearing beside Chen
Hao. His right leg flew out like a ridged rod[1. 钢鞭, it’s an ancient weapon that’s like a
rod with a sword handle and ridges. Use the raw text to google search if you’re curious. ]
that brought with it a swift and fierce gust of wind that fiercely swept towards Chen Hao’s
legs!

Hmm?

Right at the moment when Manager Wu’s right legs was about to hit Chen Hao, a terrifying
sense of danger abruptly arose within his heart. He fiercely stomped the tips of his toes onto
the ground without the slightest bit of hesitation and his body swiftly retreated backwards.

Bang!

At the exact instant that Manager Wu retreated, an icicle that was sharp as a sword
appeared out of thin air to barely scrape past Manager Wu’s scalp as it pierced downwards,
going straight through the limestone floor, leaving behind a hole the size of a bowl.

Manager Wu touched his scalp that faintly ached and couldn’t help but gasp. Were it not
for him dodging swiftly, wouldn’t this icicle have taken his life?

It wasn’t only Manager Wu, the other people present were stunned by the sudden scene as
well, and entirely didn’t notice the trace of a black shadow silently appearing at the side of
the battlefield.

“Let’s go!” An extremely familiar voice abruptly sounded beside Chen Hao’s ears, and
before he could even react to the voice he was already carried in the arms of another,
swiftly flashing out into the distance.

“Brother!” Chen Hao was extremely happy, following which he realized something and
cried out, “Wait! Aunt Bai is still there!”

“I… I’m here.” A gentle voice that was pleasing to the ear sounded. Chen Hao looked up to
notice Bai Wanqing lay prone on his older brother’s back, and her refined face revealed a
slightly embarrassed expression.

…
“Trash! They were actually saved by someone from under your eyes! Manager Wu, what’s
the use of my father sending you?”

When Li Ming reacted, Chen Hao and Bai Wanqing’s figures had vanished long ago. He
was angered to the point he vented a belly full of rage at Manager Wu, unceasingly roaring
in rage.

Manager Wu turned a deaf ear to Li Ming as he silently squatted down to look at the hole in
the floor that the icicle pierced through and muttered, “It’s actually a first-grade Icicle
Talisman. This person’s strength definitely doesn’t exceed the Congenital Realm. But this
person is really adept at seizing an opportunity. Not only was the timing of his attack
precise and ruthless, moreover he was able take advantage of the moment we were panic-
stricken to carry them out and flee. This level of calculation and judgement can be
considered top-notch. This fellow couldn’t be that jinx, right?”

Li Ming got even more furious when he noticed Manager Wu paying absolutely no
attention to him and fiercely said, “Okay! You, Manager Wu are really capable! I’ll go tell
my father right now that not only did you release the enemy without permission, but you
even intentionally embarrassed me. If I don’t drive you out of the Li Clan, then this Young
Master will change his surname to Wu!”

Manager Wu stood up unhurriedly and said with an expressionless face, “Young Master, if
you really do that, then I’ll have no choice but to clearly give an account of all the evil
deeds you’ve committed all these years.”

Li Ming was stunned and had an unsettled expression. “Manager Wu, you…you… What
nonsense are you speaking!?” His imposing manner weakened.

Manger Wu patted his hands before saying indifferently, “Young Master, let’s go. Be sure
to not act impulsively in the future, or else it’ll be difficult to say if some unpleasant
remarks would enter the Patriarch’s ears. As for that Chen Hao, we’ll slowly deal with him
in the future. What do you think?”

Li Ming nodded in a daze, seeming to be preoccupied.

Manager Wu laughed disdainfully in his heart. “If you had a thousandth of the strength of
your older brother, you probably wouldn’t have been bullied to such an extent.”

A cold and arrogant figure involuntarily appeared within Manager Wu’s mind when he
recalled Li Ming’s older brother. A cold feeling arose within his heart without reason,
causing him to abruptly shudder as a cold shiver ran down his spine.

“The Eldest Young Master dotes extremely upon this younger brother of his. Once he
emerges from seclusion and finds out about this matter, that kid from the Chen family will
probably suffer a disaster…”   
Chapter 10 - Combat Tactics

Chen Xi heaved a sigh of relief upon arriving home.

During the battle earlier, although it was only for an instant, it  consumed an extreme
amount of his mental strength.

Combat was his weakness; since learning to craft talismans 5 years ago, he’d become too
busy to have time to cultivate combat techniques. However he was extremely clear about
his strong points: being skilled at talisman crafting and knowing the might of the various
basic talismans like the palm of his hand.

Nevertheless, this was his first time in combat, after all. He had no choice but to carefully
ponder and deliberate repetitively to ensure that every step from the entry point into the
battle to the route of escape would be free of errors before resolutely making a move.

Luckily, everything went as he expected and no mishaps occurred. This also allowed him to
deeply understand that a precise set of combat tactics would sometimes play a part of vital
importance during an operation.

Bai Wanqing’s beautiful eyebrows slightly frowned as she asked anxiously. “Chen Xi,
we’ve returned, but what if they pursue us here?”

“I made a trip to the General’s Estate before I went to save you two.” Chen Xi answered
calmly.

Bai Wanqing said in disappointment, “Didn’t they say that in consideration of the Li Clan,
the General’s Estate wouldn’t interfere in this matter?”

Chen Hao, who stood beside her, instead realized what had happened and said with a smile,
“Aunt Bai, if I took a thrashing earlier, then even if the General’s Estate found out
afterwards, out of consideration towards the Li Clan, they would naturally act as if they
didn’t know. However, now that this matter has been exposed by my big brother, the
General’s Estate can’t continue their act. Because if we were to be victimized, even if the
General’s Estate is unwilling to stand up for us, for the sake of upholding their reputation in
the heart of the Pine Mist City commoners, they have no choice but to interfere in this
matter. In this way, wouldn’t the Li Clan have to pay the proper price?”

“After all, the General’s Estate represents the will of the Darchu Dynasty. It would
absolutely not tolerate someone openly defying its authority! So, if the Li Clan is
intelligent, they would absolutely not dare make a move against us at this time.”

Bai Wanqing was startled and finally understood. As she looked at the two brothers before
her, her heart was filled with incomparable wonder for some time.
The older brother is sedate and reserved with a preeminent strategizing ability, and plans
very carefully by taking into account every conceivable possibility. The younger brother is
quick-witted and keen with preeminent abilities of insight. If the Chen Clan still existed,
these brothers would absolutely be ones the gods favoured!

Unfortunately, everything no longer exists, and it brought great suffering and hardship to
these two children…

Bai Wanqing couldn’t help but feel a burst of sadness as she thought up to this point.

“How’re your injuries?” Chen Xi suddenly asked.

“I’ll be fine after a few days of recuperation.” Chen Hao laughed as he asked, “Brother, that
old dog Wu’s strength ought to be at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm, how did
you accomplish that earlier?”

Chen Xi casually replied, “It was nothing more than taking him by surprise. If it was
fighting him head on, even you and I together wouldn’t be his match.”

Chen Hao pursued, “Taking him by surprise? I undoubtedly didn’t see you earlier, how did
you suddenly appear? What formidable cultivation technique is this?”

Bai Wanqing’s curiosity was evoked as well, as during the battle earlier, she similarly
didn’t see Chen Xi, and only felt her body go light before being carried on Chen Xi’s back.

“It’s extremely simple.” Chen Xi pondered for a moment before answering. “When you
two were in combat earlier, I used a Stealth Talisman and an Aura Restraining Talisman.
As for the surprise attack on Manager Wu, I used an Icicle Talisman.”

Chen Hao said in astonishment, “All these are first-grade basic talismans.”

Chen Xi nodded as he said, “The point isn’t the talismans, it’s the ability to grasp the
rhythm of the battle.”

Bai Wanqing was clearly confused, but Chen Hao instead came to a sudden understanding
as he said with a laugh, “Right, old dog Wu’s first mistake was underestimating the enemy.
His second mistake was neglecting the surrounding environment. His third mistake was
losing control of his state of mind. Utilizing these mistakes, you’re indeed able to do many
things. However, the precondition is you must have already calculated the occurrence of
these mistakes before making your move, only then would you be able to accomplish your
goal.”

As he spoke up to this point, Chen Hao raised his head and said with a face full of
admiration, “Brother, were all these within your predictions?”
Chen Xi avoided replying and said, “Tactics are only minor Dao’s, and can only be used
once and not twice. If that Manager Wu possessed a cultivation at the Violet Palace Realm,
any schemes would be ineffective.”

Chen Hao said with a smile, “Of course, all schemes and tricks will completely crumble
before absolute strength. Just like that Stealth Talisman and Aura Restraining Talisman.
They’d be completely useless before the formidable perception of a Violet Palace Realm
cultivator.”

After advancement into the Violet Palace Realm, a trace of one’s Soul Sense would leave
the sea of consciousness and allow one to attain the power of perception, which enables one
to easily discern the fluctuations in the surrounding airflow. Thus the Stealth Talisman and
Aura Restraining Talisman were indeed unable to avoid a Violet Palace Realm cultivator’s
power of perception.

“Right, how’d you get into a fight with a member of the Li Clan?” Chen Xi asked. He
originally didn’t plan on finding out the exact details, but since the matter was related to the
Li Clan, it instead made him exceedingly vigilant. Among the enemies that killed his
grandfather, the Li Clan was the target most worthy of suspect.

Chen Hao lowered his head and kept silent.

Bai Wanqing hurriedly explained, and only then did Chen Xi find out the sequence of
events.

It turned out to be that Chen Hao planned to return to the Skystar Institute to train his
swordsmanship this morning, but he’d only just entered the institute when he was
sarcastically ridiculed by Li Ming. Li Ming said that after Chen Xi caused his grandfather’s
death, the next would be he, Chen Hao. The words Li Ming spoke were extremely
malicious and despicable, completely enraging Chen Hao to the extent that he was willing
to violate the institute’s rules and bash Li Ming before the eyes of all the students and
teachers.

The Dean Yu Ze was furious and issued the punishment of being expelled to Chen Hao.
However, Yu Ze also indicated that so long as Li Ming forgave Chen Hao’s offense, Chen
Hao could still continue to train within the institute. Li Ming was naturally unwilling, so he
summoned Manager Wu over, and the following events were naturally something that
needn’t be mentioned.

Chen Xi gave it a thought, then frowned as he said, “In that case, you’ve already been
completely expelled?”

Chen Hao held up his immature small face, and the corners of his mouth lightly puckered,
but he was still stubborn as he said in a loud voice, “Brother, I don’t regret it.”
Chen Xi wanted to get angry, but didn’t have the heart to. He knew that every time his
younger brother fought, it was practically always for the sake of defending him. His
younger brother being unable to stand another insult him was just like him being unable to
stand another bullying his younger brother.

“Little Hao is only 12 this year and has already advanced into the Congenital Realm. I feel
that he can give the Pine Mist Institution a try.” The nearby Bai Wanqing suggested.

Chen Xi was started, and shook his head, “The Pine Mist Institute’s recruitment conditions
are extremely harsh, and with Little Hao’s right hand’s crippled, I’m afraid…”

Bai Wanqing interrupted, “How do you know if you don’t try? If Little Hao is willing, I can
help recommend him to an instructor from the Pine Mist Institution.”

Chen Hao said without hesitation, “Of course I’m willing. Aunt Bai, you’re really able to
help me?”

Bai Wanqing let out a laugh, “I can only help recommend you, you’ll have to rely on
yourself to fight for the rest.”

Chen Xi couldn’t help but size up Bai Wanqing once more when he heard what she said.

According to his knowledge, Bai Wanqing was only a kitchen assistant within a restaurant
in the city, and was barely able to maintain the livelihood of herself and Xixi by relying
upon this job. Her living conditions weren’t any better than him and his younger brother;
how would she know an instructor within the Pine Mist Institution?

Looks like Aunt Bai’s identity isn’t simple.

“Then let’s go now.” Chen Xi made his decision.

The Pine Mist Institution’s foundation was solid and possessed a strength that was
completely capable of keeping up with the General’s Estate and the Li Clan. If his younger
brother was able to enter the Pine Mist Institution to train, his younger brother completely
wouldn’t have to worry about the Li Clan’s revenge anymore, and he wouldn’t have to
worry so much.

Pine Mist Institution, Sword-Polishing Hall.

Each and every azure-clad youth had upright postures and were in high spirits.

Their expression were serious as they gazed upon the tall figure ahead with gazes that
revealed unending adoration.
This person was tall and gaunt, with brows that were distant from each other and a sturdy
figure. He seemed like an unshakeable towering lone mountain as he stood there, and his
entire body emitted a deep and concentrated dignified aura.

He was Meng Kong, the Sword-Polishing Hall’s instructor, a 6th star Violet Palace Realm
sword cultivator!

“Regardless of palm techniques, fist techniques, footwork, or perhaps sword technique,

sabre technique, spear technique — they’re all divided into the basic-stage, advanced-stage,
and unity-stage.

“When the sword technique is successfully cultivated, it’s considered to be at the basic-
stage. When the sword technique is successfully cultivated to mastery, it’s considered to be
at the advanced-stage. And when the sword technique is successfully cultivated to
perfection, it can be called the unity-stage. Arriving at this step, the spirit energy of heaven
and earth will be drawn for your use when the sword technique is executed, causing your
offensive power to rise rapidly and multiply. However, this can merely be called as starting
to pry into the Dao of the sword, and is taking the first step on the path to seeking the Dao
through use of the sword!”

“So, when you haven’t attained the unity-stage, all of you aren’t considered true sword
cultivators, and don’t have anything worthy of being arrogant about! Do all of you
understand?”

Meng Kong’s voice was cold and stern like ice, as it vibrated within the entire Sword-
Polishing Hall, unceasing for a long time.

The mass of azure-clad youth’s hearts shook when they heard what he said, then they stuck
out their chests with firm gazes and said in unison, “Understood!”

Meng Kong nodded and didn’t say anything more.

“Instructor Meng, someone is looking for you outside.” An institute guard jogged over and
said in a low voice.

Meng Kong frowned, “Didn’t you see that I’m in a class?”

The institution guard’s heart shook and he swallowed a mouthful of saliva with difficulty as
he gritted his teeth and said, “That women said that you’d definitely see her. However, if
you aren’t free, then I’ll go refuse her request right away.”

Woman?

Meng Kong was startled, and a refined and mature woman’s figure appeared in his mind. A
trace of excitement arose within his heart for no reason and he took a deep breath to
forcefully calm himself down, then said in a low voice, “Hold on, what’s her name?”
The institution guard scratched his head and said hesitatingly, “She’s surnamed Bai, and
seems to be called…called Wanqing. I’m not so sure, should I go ask again?”

Eh, where’d Instructor Meng go? The institution guard raised his head, but noticed to his
astonishment that Meng Kong had long since disappeared, and it was unknown where he’d
went.

Meng Kong’s eyes were wide open as he looked at the familiar figure before him in
disbelief. His firm and cold face was already covered in excitement.

“Wanqing, you’re finally willing to see me.” His spoke with a trembling voice that was
hoarse and deep.

Bai Wanqing’s expression was extremely complicated when she saw Meng Kong, and she
took a deep breath until her feelings steadied, then she turned her head to say to the nearby
Chen Xi, “You and Little Hao wait outside first, I have something to talk with Meng…the
instructor alone.”

Chen Xi nodded, then pulled Chen Hao to turn around and go out.

He’d already discerned that Bai Wanqing had an out of the ordinary relationship with this
man called Meng Kong, and the two of them ought to have not met for many years, or else
the scene from before would be an unlikely occurrence.

He couldn’t help but be curious in his heart; what was the relationship between Aunt Bai
and this man called Meng Kong after all?

“Brother, do you think I can succeed?” Chen Hao raised his small face and asked. He was
young after all, and was unable to make out the emotional association between men and
women.

Chen Xi pondered for a moment and then said, “There ought to be no problem.” Through
the scene from earlier, he was roughly able to be certain that his younger brother might
really be able to enter the Pine Mist Institution, with Aunt Bai as the most vital link in the
chain.

Before long, the door opened once again.

Bai Wanqing’s eyes were red and swollen, but it was difficult to conceal her relief. She
seemed to have opened a lock at the bottom of her heart and called out with a smile, “Come
in both of you, Instructor Meng wants to test Little Hao’s swordsmanship.”

Chen Hao’s spirit rose, and he rubbed his fists together, “Alright!”
A trace of a light smile that wasn’t easy to notice silently slipped over the corners of Chen
Xi’s lips. It’s finally beginning?
Chapter 11 - Clear Stream Restaurant

Swish! Swish!

Sword light flowed out like a stream, and the fierce and sharp sword qi flew out in a spray
that spattered towards the surroundings, emitting strands of sharp whistling sounds as it
rent the air.

Chen Hao held a sword in his left hand, his small face filled with a steadfast expression and
a gaze as calm as still water. His thin and small figure was enclosed within dense sword
silhouettes; the Minor Skystar Sword Technique that he’d learnt from the Skystar
Institution was executed by him with precise and skilful moves that fluttered about agilely.
His movements were smooth and natural as he dripped with sweat and executed the
technique to his heart’s content.

Chen Xi’s expression was in an endless trance as he looked at his younger brother, as if
he’d returned to 5 years ago.

At that time, he too was steadfast and persistent like this, infatuated with the cultivation of
his swordsmanship, as every move of the sword technique was repeatedly trained by him
millions upon millions of times without the slightest feeling of disinterest or exhaustion.

Every time this moment occurred, his grandfather would stand at the side without saying a
word and only looked at him with a smile, his wrinkled face filled with gratification.

Grandfather’s mood at that time was probably the same as mine now?

Chen Xi’s mood was complicated and difficult to put into words as he gazed at this younger
brother’s figure that practiced his swordsmanship under the sunlight.

“Good! Your sword technique has already reached the advanced-stage. What’s rare is
because he’s wielding the sword with the left hand, the sword moves have a trace of both
unpredictability and diversity. With a little bit of tempering, he’d definitely become an
outstanding talent!”

Meng Kong clapped as he praised highly, and a rare trace of admiration was revealed on his
firm expression.

If one were to say that Meng Kong only decided to test Chen Hao out of fear of hurting Bai
Wanqing’s feelings, then now his heart was in admiration of the thin and weak youth who
wielded a sword in his left hand.

He saw the staunchness and persistence towards the sword in Chen Hao, the most basic
quality to become a qualified sword cultivator. Especially since Chen Hao was only 12
now, and yet he was still able to attain the advanced-stage in his sword technique. With
time, such extraordinary talent was bound to journey further on the path of the Dao of the
sword!

Bai Wanqing secretly heaved a sigh of relief. As she gazed at Chen Hao, she felt a sense of
honour because of him. She knew how harsh Meng Kong’s conditions were for disciple
selections, and being able to receive generous praise from him was enough for Chen Hao to
be proud of!

Chen Xi kept silent as they walked out of the Pine Mist Institution.

He was naturally extremely happy that his younger brother had become the disciple of
Instructor Meng Kong and a member of the Pine Mist Institution as expected. However, he
felt a slight headache when he thought of how the Pine Mist Institutions yearly tuition fee
was 4,000 spirit stones.

Even if he were to not eat nor drink, he would probably be unable to pay the tuition by
merely relying upon talisman crafting. Looks like I must look for another path to earn spirit
stones.

“You should be happy. The Pine Mist Institution isn’t a place anyone can enter, and there
might not even be 1 in 1,000 that are able to become the disciple of Instructor Meng. Chen
Hao will be able to tap into even more latent potential when training his swordsmanship
with Instructor Meng, and it’s extremely beneficial for his future path as a sword
cultivator.”

Bai Wanqing seemed to have discerned Chen Xi’s thoughts and laughed, “As for spirit
stones, you don’t have to worry. I’ll lend you some first, just return it to me later on.”

Chen Xi shook his head, “That won’t do. Senior Meng agreeing to allow me to repay the
tuition fees at the end of the year has already been a great help to me. I plan to find another
job, and strive to gather the 4,000 by the end of the year.”

Bai Wanqing let out a laugh and didn’t force him, then said, “Besides talisman crafting,
what else do you plan to do?”

Chen Xi pondered before saying, “Naturally the more money it earns, the better.”

“Oh,” Bai Wanqing said. She pondered for some time, then her eyes abruptly lit up, “Why
don’t you come to Clear Stream Restaurant? Aren’t you skilled in talisman crafting? The
controlling of spirit flames ought to be easy for you to learn. I know a spirit chef that still
doesn’t have a disciple until today, why don’t you go give it a try? Once you become a
spirit chef apprentice, earning 30 spirit stones a day wouldn’t be difficult. If you’re able to
undertake cooking alone, you’d be completely able to earn even more spirit stones.”
Chen Xi said hesitatingly, “Chef?”

Bai Wanqing had a smile on her face as she stared angrily and said, “Don’t look down on
spirit chefs. The dishes that every spirit chef cooks are not only superb in flavour, but also
possess various wonderful effects. For example, stabilizing the Dao foundation,
strengthening True Essence, healing injuries… Every one of those wealthy clans possess
their own exclusive spirit chef to serve them, with a status that is no different in the
slightest to a talisman master.”

Chen Xi was startled, “Then, aren’t spirit chefs extremely similar to alchemists?”

Bai Wanqing let out a laugh, “Exactly, both require being able to understand the properties
of various medicinal materials by heart, and both require spirit flames to control the
process. But they both still have differences. the spirit chef attaches importance to the taste
and its effects are only supplementary; the alchemist attaches importance to effects, but
instead never considers taste. If one were to judge which is superior, then it would depend
on their standards.”

Chen Xi came to a sudden understanding and thought for a moment, then finally made a
decision, “Then I’ll go give it a try.”

Bai Wanqing smiled happily as she said, “You’ll definitely be fine. Wielding a brush to
craft talismans requires wrist strength, wielding the ladle and cutting up ingredients
requires wrist strength as well; the combination of ink requires balancing various materials
according to proportions and the cooking of dishes is similarly so. The only thing you have
to pay attention to is the control of spirit flames, but you draw talismans throughout the
year and are skilled in precise control. Thus, controlling the spirit flames wouldn’t be too
difficult for you.”

Chen Xi however never expected that Bai Wanqing would look so favourably upon him,
and couldn’t help but feel embarrassed. How was he skilled at crafting talismans when he’d
only mastered various first-grade basic talismans now?

“Let’s go, I’ll take you over right now,” Bai Wanqing said excitedly.

“Uh, now?” Chen Xi felt extremely conflicted, as he still hadn’t thanked Bai Wanqing for
the matter of his younger brother entering Pine Mist Institution earlier and now he had to
trouble her again. Even if his face was even thicker, he would still find it slightly
embarrassing.

Bai Wanqing was stupefied momentarily, and looked in amazement at the embarrassed and
uncomfortable youth before her. This was still the first time she’d seen such a rich change
in Chen Xi’s expression, and he completely lacked the sedate and stiff aura from before.

She couldn’t help but sigh emotionally in her heart, “If he wasn’t forced by life, Chen Xi
would probably be a cheerful and optimistic youth, right? How else could he possibly keep
a straight face as he rushed about all day for the sake of maintaining his family’s
livelihood?”   

The Clear Stream Restaurant was built at the riverside, and its construction was refined and
exquisite with superb style. Three 3 leaf spirit chefs personally attended to the cooking, and
it possessed the reputation of being the number 1 restaurant within Pine Mist City.

Bai Wanqing was a kitchen assistant within the Clear Stream Restaurant that specialized in
purchasing ingredients.

The rear kitchen of the Clear Stream Restaurant was situated at the back of the restaurant,
and row after row of bright and clean stoves were spread out in a range of around 330m.
Freshly purchased pieces of spirit birds and demon beast’s meat, produce and grains that
emitted traces of spirit energy, bottles and containers that contained exotic seasonings…
Various materials related to delicacies filled the entire kitchen in orderly placements.

Apprentices were busy at every corner, some were using spirit flames to cure and smoke
meat, some used knives to peel and cut produce and some were combining seasonings.
Before the stoves were strands of spirit flames in various colors that continuously gushed
out, and youth spirit chef apprentices wielded their ladles and lifted their woks as they
cooked semi-finished dishes one after the other.

Chen Xi, who followed behind Bai Wanqing, couldn’t help but be shocked in his heart the
moment he walked into the rear kitchen and saw such a magnificent scene. It was the first
time he’d seen a kitchen of such scale.

“Let’s go, we’re going to the 2nd floor.” Without wasting any time here, Bai Wanqing
brought Chen Xi along the nearby staircase to walk up the 2nd floor.

“The 1st floor is where the various ingredients are prepared and the 2nd floor is where the
three spirit chefs cook delicacies.” Bai Wanqing explained as they walked, “The spirit chef
I spoke of is surnamed Ma, and everyone calls him old man Ma. His character is slightly
strange, but he’s a very kind person. You better nicely show off your skills when you see
him later.”

Chen Xi silently nodded.

“Little Bai? Why’re you talking behind my back, little girl? Be careful or I might ask the
boss to fire you.” A hoarse voice that was unpleasant to hear sounded from within the room
in 2nd floor, seeming to be enraged and yet revealing a joking tone.

Little Bai…
Chen Xi shot a glance at the nearby Bai Wanqing, as a weird feeling emerged in his heart.
Aunt Bai’s daughter was already 6, but this old man Ma instead called her Little Bai; he
was practically an old man who didn’t know how to conduct himself.

Bai Wanqing noticed Chen Xi’s gaze and secretly was extremely embarrassed and angry. If
she’d known that this would happen earlier, she wouldn’t have brought Chen Xi here. But
when she thought about how old man Ma was a person who said everything on his mind,
she dropped it.

She led Chen Xi to push the door and enter, and what entered their eyes was actually a
scene that was like a paradise away from the world.

The blue sky was like silk, with white clouds like cotton and a path that twisted and turned
between the surrounding flowers, trees, and thick grass. At the end of the path stood an
impressive jade-green bamboo pavilion that was concealed within cedar trees and green
pine trees.

Illusion formation!

Chen Xi’s gaze lingered for a moment, practically instantly discerning that everything
before him were illusions formed by a formation.

A scene so picturesque that’s absolutely lifelike, such an illusion formation probably must
be placed by a Grand Talisman Formation Master that’s skilled in illusion formations,
right?

Infinite wonder couldn’t help but be aroused within Chen Xi’s heart as he breathed the
delicate fragrance of flowers and trees in the air. Only one that was above a ninth-grade
talisman master could be called a talisman formation master. Currently, he was only a first-
grade talisman master, and he couldn’t help but wonder when he’d be able to attain such
heights.

“This is a Jadesky Flower Formation, a low-grade illusion formation, and it contains life-
threatening dangers hidden within. Carefully follow behind me, don’t move about
arbitrarily.” Bai Wanqing instructed in a low voice before walking forward on the winding
path.

Chen Xi’s heart jumped and he followed behind Bai Wanqing step by step, not daring to be
careless in the slightest.

Talisman masters and the talismans they crafted were divided into 9 grades. Above the
ninth-grade talisman master was the talisman formation master, and the talisman formations
crafted by them were divided into the low-grade, intermediate-grade, and high-grade.

According to Chen Xi’s knowledge, a graded illusion formation was sufficient to cause a
Violet Palace Realm cultivator to not dare go one step beyond its boundaries. The Jadesky
Flower Formation before him undoubtedly possessed such a formidable lethality. How
would he dare act rashly?

The scene changed once again when he stepped into the jade-green bamboo pavilion. The
entire room was extremely simple, and only three stoves were placed within. There was
nothing else present within, and it was completely incomparable to a strand of that beautiful
kitchen from earlier.

At this moment, an old man, a man, and a woman stood before the three stoves as they
cooked with skilled movements. Behind the three, an almost lifelike puppet quietly stood
there holding a round tray in its hand, and placed on top of the tray were a great variety of
various ingredients.

Along with a resonant whistle, the man that stood behind a stove raised his head and
greeted Bai Wanqing while smiling broadly, “Hi, pretty lady Bai.”

This tall and handsome man was dressed like a gentleman and had a pair of sword shaped
eyebrows and starry eyes, the corners of his mouth lightly curled up and a trace of a
charming smile hung there.

“What a young and handsome youth! This big sister is drooling at the sight of him. Mmm,
little sister Wanqing, is this your lover?” Behind the other stove, the enchanting woman
clad in a fiery red dress raised her head. Her hot and graceful figure had a pair of soft
breasts that stood tall and erect, and her watery eyes were shaped like a petal of a peach
blossom while staring straight at Chen Xi as her charming and beautiful face revealed an
attractive smile.

Before the last stove, an old man who was skinny like a monkey glared as he struck the
ladle in his hand and shouted loudly, “Get back to work!”

The entire body of the handsome man and enchanting woman trembled as their bodies
swished in unison to devote themselves to cooking, looking like they were extremely
obedient…
Chapter 12 - Spirit Chef

“Oh, that’s Qiao Nan, and that’s Pei Pei.”

Bai Wanqing extended her hand to point at the man and woman, then turned to face the
skinny old man, and introduced to Chen Xi in a low voice, “This is old man Ma, the senior
brother of Qiao Nan and Pei Pei. The three of them are all 3 leaf spirit chefs.”

Chen Xi nodded and bowed. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, seniors.”

Slosh! Slosh!

No one paid any attention to Chen Xi, and only the sound of cooking delicacies within the
woks echoed out continuously.

Since he was born, Chen Xi had experienced countless occasions similar to this, and he’d
long since tempered his disposition to be exceedingly tenacious. Thus he didn’t feel
embarrassed.

Bai Wanqing, however, couldn’t take it. She directly walked over to old man Ma and
suddenly snatched away the iron ladle in his hand as she said fiercely, “Old man Ma, can’t
you see I’ve come to recommend a disciple to you?”

Old man Ma fiercely glared and was about to flare up when he noticed Bai Wanqing
glaring back at him without letting up in the slightest. He knew he couldn’t do anything
against this girl and could only say in grief, “Little Bai, stop causing trouble. This is a plate
of high-quality sliced chili spirit roe-deer meat!”

As he spoke, his palms that were skinny like bamboo held up the iron wok, then tilted the
wok to pour the entire dish that revealed a bright lustre of fresh chili onto the plate. The
broth was oil-red with meat cubes matched with seasoning of various colors that were
delicate like silk. An exquisite fragrance suffused the air from this dish that was both
pleasant to the eye and smelt good.

“Old man Ma, open your eyes wide and look! Chen Xi’s skilled in crafting talismans, and
possesses both nimble control of his wrist strength and acute perception. He’s at the
Congenital Realm as well. Could it be that even such natural talent isn’t worthy of being
your disciple?”

Bai Wanqing had long since lost her modest and calm demeanour, she pursed her cherry
lips as she said savage and unreasonably, “I don’t care, you must accept Chen Xi today!”

Old man Ma was startled and seemed to have recalled something as he let out a peculiar
laugh. “Chen Xi? It couldn’t be that jinx right?”
Qiao Nan and Pe Pei who were busy before the stoves stopped all their movements upon
hearing this and gazed at Chen Xi with strange expressions.

Bai Wanqing’s body trembled, as she was extremely furious. She truly wished for nothing
more than to strangle this damned old man to death for touching such a tender spot. “How
can you speak like that?”

Her heart was extremely perturbed as she looked over at Chen Xi. But what she noticed
was Chen Xi lightly pucker his lips and said calmly, “It isn’t important whether I’m a jinx
or not; what’s important is I never expected that Senior Ma turned out to be so
conventional. Aunt Bai, let’s go.”

“Oh.” Bai Wanqing said, feeling slightly ashamed for bringing Chen Xi here.

“Wait.” The two of them were just planning to leave when old man Ma yelled in rage.
“Who the fuck is conventional? Who cares if he’s villainous without any redeeming
features, or greatly merciful and compassionate? As far as I’m concerned, it’s all fucking
rubbish!”

The more he spoke, the louder his voice became until he was practically roaring. “What I’m
accepting is a disciple, so long as he can inherit all my culinary arts, who’s so free to care
about all that?”

Bai Wanqing said in pleasant surprise, “Then you plan to accept Chen Xi as your disciple?”

Old man Ma’s face froze, hesitant and indeterminate.

Qiao Nan secretly winked at Bai Wanqing and spoke with a serious expression. “Senior
brother, accept him. I believe in a person that pretty Lady Bai looks favourably upon!”

Pei Pei’s gaze lingered on Chen Xi for a moment as she covertly shot Chen Xi a seductive
glance. Only then did she plead to old man Ma with a pitiable expression. “Yeah, senior
brother. Chen Xi looks young and steady, and he’s skilled in crafting talismans. Accept
him.”

Chen Xi was startled and kept his silence, but a trace of hope arose within his heart.

He’d refused earlier because old man Ma mocked him to his face. If he were to humble
himself and plead the old man, then even if he’d successfully taken old man Ma as his
master; if he still had to constantly suffer old man Ma’s mocking, then he would rather not
have this opportunity.

Moreover, after hearing old man Ma’s roars, he’d understood that old man Ma wasn’t as
terrible as he’d thought, and that little bit of anger in his heart vanished without a trace.
It wasn’t terrifying when one was cast aside, mocked, or held in contempt. What was
terrifying was when one didn’t have self-esteem, dignity, and lacked persistence! What was
terrifying was when one was indiscriminate between good and evil, black and white, and
unable to discern between true and false!

This was something his grandfather said, and Chen Xi adhered to it firmly since he was
young until it was branded into his marrow.

Old man ma snorted coldly, then gazed at Chen Xi and said, “This being the case, I’ll give
you a chance. There’s an azure tassel bamboo shoot, cut it into slices.”

The entire azure tassel bamboo shoot was a verdant green like jade and contained within it
was strands of spirit energy, yet it was one of the ordinary fruits and vegetables.

Chen Xi moved to the stove. Placed before him was a shiny kitchen knife and a nearly 2/3m
long azure tassel bamboo shoot.

“Knife skill is one of the important methods to judge and evaluate the standard of a spirit
chef. 30% stove, 70% chopping board; a dish can’t be made without a knife. Old man Ma
want’s to test your knife skill, do your best.” Bai Wanqing explained in a low voice, her
clear eyes filled with an encouraging expression.

Chen Xi nodded. He picked up the azure tassel bamboo shoot and looked at it for a moment
before swiftly swinging his knife!

Chop! Chop! Chop!

Dense and closely woven sounds of the knife slicing on the chopping board echoed out like
a rhythmic drum. Chen Xi’s wrist was steady like a coiled pine tree, and the shiny and
sharp kitchen knife was precisely controlled by him to slice out snow white bamboo shoot
slices that were as thin as a cicada’s wing.

Five years ago, Chen Xi had replaced his grandfather to frequently cook at home, thus he
was naturally extremely familiar with using a kitchen knife. Couple that with crafting
talismans throughout the year, the strength of his wrist and his precision were both
outstanding. At this moment, when he put his heart and soul into it, not only were his
movements smooth and precise, even his speed was extremely fast.

In next to no time, an azure tassel bamboo shoot transformed into a row of neatly arranged
snow white bamboo shoot slices.

In the distance, old man Ma didn’t even spare a glance as he said indifferently, “Steady
wrist strength and precise knife skill, but unfortunately the thickness differs. Only half
achieved the state of being as thin as a cicada’s wing, barely slightly better than an average
person.”
“The slicing of ingredients stresses upon uniform thickness, to be as thin as a cicada’s
wing. Only in such a way would it allow the infusion of taste within the dish to be
balanced, the cooking time to be the same, and its shape to be pleasing to the eye. If the
size, thickness, and length weren’t equal, it would cause the same dish to have defects such
as varying taste, varying degrees of doneness and texture, and being unpleasant to the eye.”

Pei Pei’s beautiful eyes rippled with extraordinary splendour as she praised while smiling
happily, “Little brother Chen Xi, your knife skill isn’t bad.”

Old man Ma glared at Pei Pei, then raised a request with a stiff tone. “Slice it into threads!”

Chen Xi took a deep breath, then once again concentrated on the chopping board as he
sliced it into threads. Obviously, the demand towards the degree of precision was even
higher, thus he didn’t care be careless.

Chop, chop, chop…

The kitchen knife was like mercury spilling on the ground, as it descended down at a higher
frequency that was finer and closely woven, and bamboo shoot threads that were extremely
thin like hair flew out.

Chen Xi felt as if he was crafting a talisman. The kitchen knife had become the talisman
brush, the bamboo shoot slices had transformed into the talisman paper, and every bamboo
shoot thread had become a talisman marking that was perfectly straight like a sharp sword.

The drawing of talisman markings strives for the evenness of the ink marks, and every
single detail had to be accurate and detailed, as it represented the entire talisman as a whole.

Slicing the bamboo shoot slices into thread was similar as well, as it strived for similar
length and thicknesses, and the skill of one was obviously shown between the swift
movements of the knife.

Strictly speaking, the difficulty of slicing the pieces into threads was far lower than drawing
talisman markings, as the talisman markings drawings varied beyond a straight line and had
different levels of strength applied to each marking. The drawing of talisman markings
fully utilized the Dao of variation and shifting, and was far from being so singular like the
movement of slicing slices into threads.

Thus, after he’d completely grasped the degree of strength and precision, the speed Chen Xi
chopped abruptly increased, and the kitchen knife seemed as if it’d come alive, dancing a
joyous rhythm as it swiftly moved forward.

“His movements weren’t fluid in the beginning, but halfway through he completely grasped
the essence of it. Could this kid be the same as me, a genius in the culinary Dao?” Qiao
Nan held his chin and pretended to be pondering.
“Fuck off! You shameless fellow!” The nearby Pei Pei rolled her eyes, then gazed at Chen
Xi with an infatuated gaze and muttered. “An earnest man is the most handsome. Little
brother Chen Xi, big sister is waiting for you to come love me, I’ll love you more dearly
than little sister Wanqing…”

This time even Bai Wanqing couldn’t take it any longer, two rosy clouds appeared on her
refined and fair face as she got angry from embarrassment. “Pei! Delusional!”

Nevertheless, she was extremely happy in her heart, as Chen Xi being able to receive the
praise of both Qiao Nan and Pei Pei was already far beyond her imagination.

Old man Ma’s eyes flashed brightly, but his expression remained indifferent.

In Pine Mist City, so long as your living conditions weren’t bad, practically no one’s child
would cook in the kitchen, as cooking was considered to be engaging in irrelevant work and
wasting time that would be better used for cultivating. In truth it was exactly like that,
unless one attained the level of skill to be a spirit chef. Ordinary people who worked as
chefs were all servants, and as their master, one only needed to enjoy the fruits of their
labor.

Thus, after seeing Chen Xi’s skill in handling the knife, old man Ma’s heart was indeed
moved slightly.

But this was far from enough, as his culinary arts towered above all in the entire Pine Mist
City, and he himself was a 3 leaf spirit chef. Thus he would absolutely not be hasty when
deciding on the person to be his disciple.

Chen Xi put down the kitchen knife. On the chopping board was a pile of delicate azure
tassel bamboo shoot threads that were bright as snow. Each thread was fine like a cotton
fibre and crystal clear, and were extremely attractive.

“Chen Xi, well done!” Bai Wanqing took the lead in giving praising him.

“Not bad. You have half my ability from all those years ago, but you can already be
considered as extraordinarily skilled.” Qiao Nan said in all seriousness.

Pei Pei first rolled her eyes at the shamelessly boasting Qiao Nan, then used her fair and
slender arms to hold onto her delicate and beautiful face as she muttered infatuatedly,
“Little brother Chen Xi, I’ve already deeply fallen in love with your earnest appearance.
Oh, could this be a feeling I’m unable to free myself of?”

Although he felt slightly awkward when he heard the praises of the three, but Chen Xi still
felt much more at ease as he raised his head to gaze at old man Ma.
“Humph! Your knife skill still has a long way to go.” Old man Ma’s face tightened as he
walked forward. His left hand picked up an azure tassel bamboo shoot thread and his right
hand picked up the kitchen knife, then his wrist vibrated and a shocking scene appeared.

With the bamboo shoot thread in his left hand as the target, the nearly 30cm long kitchen
knife danced swiftly within his hand, as it dispersed out masses of knife afterimages that
seemed like snowflakes, his skilful movements both natural and smooth.

Chen Xi’s eyes sprang wide open, but was completely bewildered by what he saw.

“He’s carving a flower!”  Bai Wanqing explained in a low voice. “Carving patterns onto
ingredients it not only pleasing to the eye, but also allows the taste to more easily enter the
dish during cooking. Especially some types of meat that are full of spirit energy, the
carving of patterns on its surface allows spirit energy to be more easily absorbed.”

Chen Xi came to a sudden understand, and secretly said to himself, “This old man Ma
wouldn’t ask me to do this next right?”

He felt slightly vexed, as the kitchen knife seemed so enormous compared to a bamboo
shoot thread that was fine like a cotton fibre, and not to mention carving a flower atop it, he
would probably severe it the moment it came into contact with his knife.

Bai Wanqing grunted coldly. “Humph! It’s just a lousy bamboo shoot thread, what’s the
point of carving on it? Don’t worry, if old man Ma really asks you to carve a flower on the
bamboo shoot thread, then he’s intentionally making it difficult on you. I’ll absolutely not
approve of it!”

“I don’t approve as well.” Pei Pei interjected, and she intentionally shot a glance at Chen Xi
as she spoke, with an appearance that said ‘Big sister will stand up for you.’

Qiao Nan held his head high, and said solemnly, “Since pretty lady Bai doesn’t approve,
then as a gentleman, I express my disapproval as well.”

Old man Ma’s figure that was whirling the knife froze, then he swung his hand to fiercely
throw the kitchen knife away, and stomped his foot in rage as he howled. “Is it not enough
that I accept this disciple? All I did was call him a name and all of you gang up on me?”

“You said it yourself!” Bai Wanqing, Qiao Nan, and Pei Pei spoke in unison.

Chen Xi took all this to heart, and a warmth that he’d never felt in a long time flowed
within his heart. He knew that with just his level of knife skill, if it wasn’t out of
consideration for Aunt Bai, these fellows wouldn’t even bother to spare him a glance.

He couldn’t help but feel a burst of curiosity. Who exactly is Aunt Bai? Not only is she
acquainted with Instructor Meng Kong of Pine Mist Institution, but she’s also able to get
along with three spirit chefs. She’s entirely not like an ordinary kitchen assistant.
Chapter 13 - Body Refinement

“I’ll give you ten days, memorize the Collection of Spirit Flames and An Ultimate,
Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients by heart. After ten days, if you can’t even figure out
the properties of ingredients and spirit flames, then I’d rather not take this disciple!”

Old man Ma was still not resigned, and put forward a requirement.

Chen Xi didn’t mind, he just pondered for a moment and then said. “Ten days isn’t a
problem. I want to know how many spirit stones I’ll be able to obtain everyday once I
become your disciple.”

Old man Ma’s eyes abruptly sprang wide open, seeming to be unable to believe his ears,
and his chest violently rose and fell as he suddenly howled loudly. “You’re taking me as
your master for the sake of earning spirit stones? My fucking culinary arts can be measured
by spirit stones? You! You! You! Fuck off!”

Bai Wanqing hurriedly pulled Chen Xi along to speed off and flee when she saw Old man
Ma on the verge of going berserk.

“He has character, but unfortunately he isn’t as full of character as I was all those years
ago.” Qiao Nan rubbed his chin as he strictly evaluated.

“Oh! Little brother Chen Xi is out of the ordinary. Only such a man is worthy of being
cherished by me.” Pei Pei muttered to herself, her beautiful eyes rippling with radiant
splendour as she once again became delusional.

“Fucking get back to work!” Old man Ma’s sharp howl was filled with infinite rage as it
boomed out, and mixed within it was the sound of the iron ladle hitting the wok.

After walking out of Clear Stream Restaurant, Bai Wanqing couldn’t refrain from laughing
incessantly with a light voice when she recalled the appearance of old man Ma when he
was forced to submit by them.

Chen Xi felt it to be slightly amusing as well, and he said, “Old man Ma’s temper is strange
indeed.”

Bai Wanqing switched the topic of conversation and said, “You don’t have to worry about
being unable to earn spirit stones. So long as you officially become old man Ma’s disciple
ten days from now, the Clear Stream Restaurant will sign an agreement with you for a
suitable price.”

Chen Xi nodded, as they was what he thought as well. As the lead spirit chef of Clear
Stream Restaurant, old man Ma’s salary was incomparably liberal. And as the disciple of
old man Ma, the Clear Stream Restaurant would only be too anxious to make offerings of
spirit stones to him.

Bai Wanqing seemed to have recalled something, and a slightly strange look appeared on
her elegant and fair face. “If you are able to acknowledge old man Ma as your master in ten
days, then perhaps you’ll be able to meet the owner of Clear Stream Restaurant… A person
with an extremely high ability.”

Chen Xi was startled and in his heart as he figured that was the case. As the Clear Stream
Restaurant was reputed as the number one restaurant in Pine Mist City, its owner would
naturally have an extraordinary ability.

Just by looking at Chen Xi’s appearance, Bai Wanqing knew that he didn’t understand the
meaning behind her words, but she didn’t explain any further. She smiled as she said, “Are
you going to the Zhang general store today?”

Chen Xi shook his head. “No, I wasn’t able to craft talismans today. If I go to the general
store, Uncle Zhang would probably scold me.”

As he spoke of this, he recalled the matters that happened today. Chen Hao had
successfully entered the Pine Mist Institution, and he had obtained the recognition of old
man Ma. For a moment, he was even more grateful to Bai Wanqing.

He didn’t know why Bai Wanqing would go all out to help him, but he knew that the
weight of this kindness was sufficient to make him use his entire lifetime to return it!

“Aunt Bai, thank you! Truly! Thank you!” Chen Xi had a solemn expression and gazed at
Bai Wanqing with extremely serious gaze as he spoke word for word.

Bai Wanqing was stunned, she only recovered from her shock after some time and feelings
fluctuated within her heart. Suddenly, she extended out her slender and white hand to pinch
Chen Xi’s face, then smiled happily. “Smile more in the future. Don’t stiffen your face and
be insulted as a deadpan. The nickname Deadpan Chen is really too unpleasant to the ear.”

Chen Xi was muddled by Bai Wanqing’s unexpected actions, and when he recovered from
his shock after some time, a rare trace of a flushed face appeared on his pale and handsome
face.

“Ha! Your face has gone red!” Bai Wanqing blinked her eyes with a face full of a
mischievous smile.

Chen Xi couldn’t take it any longer, and didn’t pay any attention to Bai Wanqing anymore,
only concentrating on walking swiftly, but in his heart he instead extremely enjoyed this
warm feeling.

…
Within a large hall in the Li Clan.

“Useless son! Trash!” The wine cup in Li Yizhen’s hand transformed into a pile of dust
with a crash, his steadfast and dignified face was gloomy and his eyes almost spurted fire as
he shouted explosively. “Injuring another on the streets and defying the authority of the
General’s Estate. These are all great things you’ve done!”

“Father, your son took a beating. How can the General’s Estate be so indiscriminate?” Li
Ming summoned up courage to absolve himself from responsibility.

Li Yizhen’s face went even gloomier, and coldly stared at his youngest son. “You’re still
clamorous and domineering even when your skills are inferior to another. And you actually
used such a terrible humiliation like taking a beating as a reason to absolve yourself from
responsibility. If you weren’t my son, I would surely kill you with my own two hands!”

Li Ming’s face suddenly went pale, and his entire body trembled, not daring to speak
another word.

“Hmph!” Li Yizhen grunted coldly and his gaze descended on Manager Wu as he

questioned in a low voice. “Manager Wu, since you’ve made a move, why didn’t you kill
that Chen Hao? Do you know how much of a passive position your incompetence put me
in?”

Manager Wu sweated profusely, his heart thumping as he maintained dead silence.

He knew that for the sake of calming the rage of the General’s Estate, the Patriarch had
paid the painful price of a graded magic treasure. Under these circumstances, he didn’t dare
to justify himself at all and only said in a low voice. “I originally had 100% certainty to kill
Chen Hao, but I encountered the surprise attack of Chen Xi midway. I was caught off guard
and the two brothers snuck off. Patriarch, please impart your punishment upon me!”

Li Yizhen’s enraged expression slightly eased up. “Chen Xi? Could it be that he’s already
attained the level of perfection within the Congenital Realm?”

Manager Wu became even more ashamed. “No. The kid is skilled in crafting talismans and
is ruthlessly cunning. He first utilized a Stealth Talisman and Aura Restraining Talisman to
conceal himself at the side, then used an Icicle Talisman to launch a sneak attack on me.
Not one of the moments he chose didn’t hit this old servants vulnerabilities, so…”

Li Yizhen was startled and seemed lost in thought. “I’ve promised those over at the
southern territory that when these two brothers attain perfection within the Congenital
Realm, I’ll cripple their cultivations. I’ll cause them to have no fate with the path to
immortality, and make be overwhelmed with grief to the point they wished to die, then be
tormented to death. It’s precisely because of this that I’ve never once taken the two of them
seriously, but now it would seem that I should pay slight attention to them.”
Manager Wu said respectfully. “I wonder if Patriarch has any plans, this old servant is
willing to follow by Patriarch’s side and will not refuse an order under any circumstances!”

Li Yizhen shook his head and sighed. “I’ve just received news, that Chen Hao had already
entered the Pine Mist Institution to cultivate. The Pine Mist Institution had tremendous
strength that is on par with my Li Clan. So we’re temporarily unable to make a move
against him. That kid really got off lightly.”

Manager Wu seemed to have thought of something and his eyes lit up. “Patriarch, all the
institutions within Pine Mist City will be participating in the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain trials. Chen Hao has already cultivated to the Congenital Realm and will surely
participate. Furthermore, the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain is situated within the
Southern Barbaric Mountain Range, thus the General’s Estate is unable to interfere. At that
time, we will only have to send a few people to conceal themselves within, and they would
surely be able to kill that kid!”

Li Yizhen pondered then said, “This plan isn’t bad. But, you can’t kill him, and instead
must cripple his cultivation.”

A trace of viciousness flashed within Manager Wu’s eyes and he sneered. “Don’t worry
Patriarch, this old servant will surely be able to take out that kid at that time!”

“Fantastic! I’ll be going at that time as well!” Li Ming cried out in joy and his gaze was
filled with utmost hatred, obviously he already hated Chen Hao to the bones.

Li Yizhen coldly said, “Wanting to take revenge isn’t a bad thing. From today onwards,
you don’t have to go to the Skystar Institution, and instead will cultivate in closed doors
within the Ancestral House. When you’re able to attain perfection within the Congenital
Realm, then at that time you may come out!”

Closed door cultivation in the Ancestral House?

Li Ming’s legs abruptly started shaking and his face went pale.

“Iron Hand, take the Young Master. I’ll leave his cultivation up to you.” Li Yizhen
instructed indifferently.

“Understood.” A wisp of a shadow suddenly appeared behind Li Yizhen, and a gaunt and
tall black clothed man silently appeared.

His appearance was mediocre and ordinary, and no distinguishing characteristic could be
perceived. But when Li Ming saw him, it was as if he’d seen the devil and his mouth
trembled as he said, “Father, can…”

His voice abruptly stopped.

Iron Hand swiftly appeared by Li Ming’s side like a ghost, then swung his hand to knock Li
Ming out before grabbing Li Ming up like holding a chick, directly leaving the large hall.

A trace of unbearableness flashed within Li Yizhen’s eyes and was subsequently replaced
with a sense of firmness, then he muttered. “Spare the rod and spoil the child. If you can’t
even achieve perfection within the Congenital Realm, then what qualification do you have
to compete with your older brother for the position of Patriarch? The Li Clan doesn’t need
trash!”

Manager Wu was stunned by the scene that unfolded before him. Iron Hand? That Violet
Palace Realm expert that was always concealed within the shadows and considered himself
to be a shadow? That number one slaughterer of the Li Clan whose hands were stained
densely with blood?

Being watched by such a freak while cultivating, the following days of the Young Master
would probably only be able to be described as too horrible to look at, right?

Without any reason, a trace of pity arose within Manager Wu’s heart.

“Manager Wu, there’s still one more matter I want you to take care of.” Li Yizhen frowned
and pondered for a moment before making the decision.

Manager Wu was jolted back to reality, and he took a deep breath the said in a loud voice.
“Please give me you instructions, Patriarch!”

“It’s inadvisable for us to offend the General’s Estate in the near future, but we can’t let
that Chen Xi off so easily as well. Next month, I want you to cripple his cultivation first!”

After bidding his farewell to Bai Wanqing, Chen Xi directly returned home and had a
rushed meal before starting to comprehend the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts.

The things that took place these past few days were too numerous and caused a strong sense
of urgency to arise within him, thus he didn’t dare slack off in the slightest.

Most importantly, no matter it it was qi refinement, body refinement, visualizing the True
Body Brand, or earning money by crafting talismans, they would all occupy a large amount
of his time. Now that he had an extra culinary arts, his time seemed even tighter. So he
would absolutely not allow himself to waste a shred of time.

Chen Xi didn’t know how others treated their time, but he knew that if he wanted to
become strong, if he wanted to take revenge for his grandfather and the Chen Clan, and if
he wanted to meet his mother, then he couldn’t loosen the requirements he imposed on
himself.
On the contrary, for the sake of achieving these objectives, he would have to impose even
harsher requirements on himself, no matter how hard. Even if he had to sweat an extra drop
of sweat, in no event would he give himself a reason to slack off!

Holding this sort of thought, Chen Xi drew up a cultivation plan for himself. In the morning
he would craft talismans, then train in the culinary arts; at night, he would cultivate the
Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts, the Violet Sky Arts, and visualize the True Body
Brand.

As for how much time remained for him to sleep wasn’t within his consideration.

Of course, if Chen Xi was able to attain the Violet Palace Realm and become a Violet
Palace cultivator, sleeping or not was of no great importance.

“The body refiners in the world mostly use the energy of stone, gold, lightning, fire, and
water to temper their physique. But I’ve never heard of drawing upon the baleful qi of the
stars to temper the physique. This Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts is able to develop
a new method, and is indeed marvellous!”

As if he’d opened up a mysterious window, Chen Xi’s eyes were unusually bright. He
carefully savoured the lines of beautiful characters within his mind with dense curiosity.
Chapter 14- Cultivating

The Universe Starslayer Body Forging Technique was divided into seven levels.

The first level: Refining the skin with metal — The Seventh Goldstar baleful qi is drawn
upon to temper the skin.

The second level: Toughening the bones with fire — The Blazing Firestar baleful qi is
drawn upon to toughen the bone.

The third level: Kneading the tendons with water — The Flexible Waterstar baleful qi is
drawn upon to knead the tendons.

The fourth level: Tempering the muscles with earth — The Thick Earthstar baleful qi is
drawn upon to temper the flesh and blood.

The fifth level: Molding the body with wood — The Pure Woodstar baleful qi is drawn
upon to remold the physique.

Up until here, the body refinement for the Postnatal Realm had attained perfection.

“It’s formidable as expected. Able to cultivate to perfection within the Congenital Realm
just by tempering the entire body through the baleful qi of stars with the five elements. It’s
far more concise and explicit than a qi refinement technique.”

Chen Xi exclaimed in admiration, then frowned and muttered. “However, simple doesn’t
mean it’s easy. Body refining methods were originally extremely difficult, and one who
doesn’t have great perseverance and great willpower is utterly unable to endure the pain
brought about from body refinement. This Universe Starslayer Body Forging Technique
comes from the master of the Manor and can even be traced back to the Primordial Era of a
million years ago. Cultivating it will probably be even more difficult than an ordinary body
refinement technique.”

Chen Xi’s mind calmed down a great deal when he thought of this, and he continued to
read downwards.

The sixth level was the Congenital Realm of body refinement. Once one arrived at this
level, the vital energy and blood of the entire body would rise like steam, the qi and vital
energy would run through the body like a rainbow, and one would possess tremendous
strength capable of moving mountains.

The seventh level was the Violet Palace Realm of body refinement. Once one arrives at this
level, a terrifying mysterious energy would flow out from between the flesh, blood, and
periosteum — Shaman Energy! Relying on Shaman Energy, one could cultivate secret arts,
divine abilities, and techniques unique to body refiners. For example, the Mountain
Transforming Fist, Heavenly Transformation, Immovable Gold Body, etc.
“Shaman Energy? Could it be that it’s similar to the True Essence cultivated by qi refiners?
What are divine abilities and techniques? Unfortunately, I have very little knowledge in the
field of body refining. I must find a chance to figure all of this out, otherwise, there’ll
surely be some stagnation when cultivating it.”

Chen Xi silently pondered, then abruptly thought of another problem. “This Universe
Starslayer Body Forging Technique is from the master of the Manor, and would surely
exceed these. Could it be that the more profound stages are still within the grasps of Senior
Ji Yu?”

“Never mind, it’s useless to think any more, I should quickly attain the Violet Palace
Realm. Then when I enter the Manor again, so long as I’m able to pass the 1st level of the
Heavenpeak of Trials, Senior Ji Yu ought to pass down the later content of the Universe
Starslayer Body Forging Technique to me.”

Chen Xi stood up and went out of his house.

The night sky was pitch black, and stars that were like bright pearls flickered atop the
curtain of night, sprinkling down chilly starlight that was enchanting and profound.

Chen Xi raised his head and silently thought over the cultivation technique for the first
level of the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Technique as he gazed upon the myriad stars
in the sky. After a long time, his eyebrows knit into a frown as he muttered. “It’s so
difficult!”

The Universe Starslayer Body Forging Technique had a few great barriers, and initiation
was one of them.

If one wanted to draw upon the Seventh Goldstar baleful qi to refine one’s physique, the
first step would require sensing Venus, the star that was filled with Seventh Goldstar
baleful qi. The second step would be to form a connection with Venus, with one’s body as
the center. Only then could one successfully attract and draw up the Seventh Goldstar
baleful qi to temper the skin.

Among the myriad of stars, Venus was the brightest, and if one were to carefully identify it,
it wouldn’t take long to find it. As for using the Seventh Goldstar baleful qi to temper the
skin, it wasn’t considered to be too difficult, and only needed to cultivate according to the
cultivation technique.

The most difficult was the second step, sensing Venus and forming a connection with it.

Luckily, a detailed method of sensing Venus was record within the Universe Starslayer
Body Forging Technique, and even though the method was complicated, it resolved Chen
Xi’s urgent need.
“Success or not, it’s never wrong to try…” Chen Xi took a deep breath, and only until his
state of mind maintained utmost tranquillity did he slowly close his eyes. He sat cross-
legged on the courtyard floor, and lightly raised his head to face the brightest star in the
faraway horizon.

He then weakly supported his hands before his chest, his fingers twisted like vines to form
dense amounts of ancient seals which had a faint sense of mysteriousness and profundity.

One by one, hand seals were born and destroyed like the rising and falling of the tide,
seeming to have no end.

After seven minutes, Chen Xi suddenly stopped, his right palm held the heavens, and his
left palm took in the earth. He wasn’t moving anymore, like a silent stone carving that
emitted an unusual tranquillity.

Ding!

A noise like a camel bell faintly echoing out from the faraway desert, bringing along a trace
of tranquil energy that cleansed the soul, resounded throughout Chen Xi’s sea of
consciousness.

“He started cultivating?” Within the Manor, Ji Yu raised his head from the surging river,
seeming to be listening to something, His deep gaze filled with life experience revealed a
trace of an unusual expression, seeming excited, but also sentimental…

Chen Xi felt like he’d grown wings and flown up into the heavens, rushing towards the
deep reaches of the night sky, not knowing exhaustion nor knowing the end of the sky.

Flying past dazzling stars that fluttered and floated in the sky, one by one.

Flying past deep and quiet black holes that caused a lingering fear in one’s heart, one by
one.

Flying past groups of meteor showers that were like blooming fireworks, one by one.

In the end, he stopped in an expanse of boundless space, and there was only one star here,
an enormous star that emitted millions upon millions of gold lights.

The gold light was sharp like a sword, and the entire star seemed as if it was filled with
countless swords that emitted a sharp cold aura which surged strongly as it gushed out,
causing one to dare not look closely at it.

That dense gold light is the Seventh Goldstar baleful qi?

Chen Xi’s mind was enlightened at the moment fortune approached, and he sat cross-
legged in space with a tranquil expressions as he silently closed his eyes.
Right at this moment, a strand of chilly and fluid starlight poured down from above the star
filled night sky, like a silent drizzle that was continuous and dense, descending into the
courtyard and sprinkling all around Chen Xi’s body.

The scene was extremely novel, as if a bridge of light that was thin like a towline had been
built between the heavens and the earth, connecting Chen Xi with Venus!

Eh?

Seeming to have noticed something, thousands of extremely shocking and terrifying auras
emerged from the vast and boundless southern territory, and gaze after gaze shot faraway
into the south with expressions of bewilderment, shock, perplexion, etc.

Who exactly is it that’s actually able to communicate with the energy of the stars?

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

Within Pine Mist City, figures rose up from the ground in various places across the city and
stood in mid-air as their gazes shot towards the same place in unison — The commoners
district.

Starlight descending onto the ground? Why would such a strange phenomenon appear
here? What sort of omen was this?

However, when everyone desired to investigate to the end, they noticed in astonishment
that the night sky was ink black and everything had returned to normal. They weren’t able
to sense that strange energy that suddenly emerged, as if nothing had happened all along.

Could it have been an illusion?

No!

It surely occurred.

No one doubted what they sensed earlier. They searched over and over in reluctance, but
they didn’t have a shred of discovery anymore, and could only return with bewilderment
and without accomplishing anything.

“Haha, my Master awaited and finally obtained a disciple that’s able to inherit his mantle
with great difficulty, how could I allow all of you to make trouble?” Within the Manor, Ji
Yu looked up into the heavens as he burst into laughter, his mood unspeakably joyous.
After a long time, Ji Yu’s expression returned calm, and he muttered. “Kid, work hard. A
true expert doesn’t need the protection of anyone. I won’t make an exception and help you
anymore in the future. Unless… You can pass all the trials of the Heavenpeak!”

Chen Xi was entirely unaware of this.

Beside him, innumerable starlights fluttered, and the color of the starlight slowly changed
to a pure and eye piercing gold.

“Success!” Chen Xi opened his eyes and gazed at the specks of golden light that lightly
fluttered by his body like fireflies and muttered. “This is the Seventh Goldstar baleful qi?”

He was extremely excited in his heart, and circulated the first level of the Universe
Starslayer Body Forging Technique mental cultivation technique without the slightest
hesitation!

Hiss! Hiss!

Suddenly, the Seventh Goldstar baleful qi that fluttered in the surrounding abruptly stopped
for a moment, then transformed into sharp gold lights that were thin like hairs to suddenly
fuse into the skin on Chen Xi’s entire body.

Pain!

Pain that penetrated the bone!

Even though he’d already prepared himself, when the Seventh Goldstar baleful qi came into
contact with his body, it still hurt until Chen Xi was nearly unable to control his body. It
felt as if thousands of sharp silver needles were fiercely piercing his body simultaneously
and his entire body trembled ceaselessly.

The Seventh Goldstar baleful qi contained the sharp qi that the stars condensed as they
revolved, and it was incomparably pure, thus it naturally was extremely painful when used
to temper the skin of the body.

Persevere!

If I can’t even endure past the first barrier, how can I think of getting revenge?

The veins on Chen Xi’s forehead bulged explosively and he looked extraordinarily savage
as he clenched his teeth tightly, trying hard to maintain the last thread of consciousness in
his head as he slowly circulated his cultivation technique.

The pain was like a tide, each wave fiercer than the other. Strands of dark red blood spilt
out of the skin and pores on Chen Xi’s entire body and he quickly became covered in
blood.
After an unknown amount of time, Chen Xi slowly ceased circulating his cultivation
technique. His mind had been tortured by the pain, to the point that it was completely
without a shred of consciousness. He originally desired to stand up, but he felt his entire
body lacking even a shred of strength. Only boundless pain and exhaustion remained,
making him unable to even stand.

“Just the first barrier of initiation has already tortured me to this state. Looks like what
Senior Ji Yu said is true, my body is indeed too frail…”

Chen Xi didn’t become dejected, as this fact caused him to understand a lot, and also
allowed him to clearly recognize the condition of his body.

After meditating for a moment and waiting for his body to recover a sliver of strength, he
once again clenched his teeth tightly as he used his arms to slowly prop his body up. He
eventually stood, but he’d already sweated profusely from the pain.

He staggered step by step to walk into the house, then used cold water to wash off the blood
covering his body before sitting cross-legged on his bed while breathing heavily.

Even if he felt pain and exhaustion to the utmost limit, Chen Xi still didn’t waste a moment
before starting to cultivate the Violet Sky Arts.

His way of thinking was extremely simple, containing only two words: Become strong!

Without firm convictions and persistent actions, he would never know how strong he is in
the end, right?

Chen Xi was working hard silently and firmly.

Early in the morning the next day, Chen Xi woke up on time.

After he cultivated the Violet Sky Arts last night, he sat cross-legged in meditation within
his sea of consciousness and visualized the True Body Brand left behind by the master of
the Manor according to the instructions of Ji Yu. He only fell into a deep slumber right
before dawn.

So even though his complexion was unusually pale, his spirit was extremely well.

Huh?

Chen Xi suddenly noticed that his six senses[1. Six senses refers to the usual five senses
and the added sense of the consciousness.] seemed to have become unusually sensitive
overnight.
The leaves on the tree outside the courtyard gently swayed as they emitted strands of
sounds that were like a heavenly flute; Rows of ants marching in the crevices at the corner,
laboriously transporting food; Under the eaves of the house, a butterfly fluttered on the spot
as it bathed in the morning sun with a graceful and lively bearing…

Everything was so full of vigor, and it all caused Chen Xi to feel novel and wonder.

“It’s surely because of visualizing that Fuxi Divine Statue that my soul has become
stronger!”

In almost an instant, Chen Xi understood everything, and he couldn’t help but exclaim in
surprise. “It actually caused my soul to attain this state in a mere night, the True Body
Brand that Senior Fuxi left behind is indeed extraordinary!”
Chapter 15- Wondrous Effect of the Soul

These past five years, crafting talismans at dawn had already become a habit of Chen Xi’s,
no matter if it was rain or shine.

Today was no exception.

After Chen Xi washed up, he sat before the wooden table and started crafting talismans.

Different from before, due to the skin on his entire body faintly aching, his wrist that he
drew with obviously had a trace of jerkiness, and his speed had slowed down a great deal as
well. It would probably be impossible for him to complete 30 first-grade talisman within
five hours.

However, Chen Xi took no notice of this, and his gaze concentrated on the talisman paper
with a meticulously attentive expression.

According to the requirements of the Zhang general store, the first-grade basic talisman he
needed to craft today was the Earthshield Talisman.

The Earthshield Talisman was an earth attribute basic talisman that prioritized defence. One
would be able to condense a shield that was like solid rock before one’s self when utilizing
it. The structure of the talisman markings weren’t complicated, and had a similar difficulty
to the Flamecloud Talisman, but the attribute of the two were completely different.

However, this was completely unable to hinder Chen Xi, as during these five years,
although he was mocked as trash who could only craft basic talismans. But if one were to
speak of the number of basic talismans mastered, then no one was able to compare to him.

He had no choice, for the sake of earning spirit stones, he had to learn how to craft basic
talismans of various attributes, as only in this way would he be able to obtain spirit stones
from the Zhang general store.

Until today, the number of basic talismans that Chen Xi mastered proficiently was probably
over a thousand, and if this number were to be made public, it would surely cause everyone
to be flabbergasted and dare not believe it.

Normally speaking, most talisman masters choose a path of talisman crafting that was
suitable to them from the five elemental attributes, then studied and practised in it to swiftly
increase their cultivation in the Dao of talismans.

Whereas Chen Xi instead welcomed practising all the basic talismans of the five elements.
Even though he’d already skilfully mastered them by heart, he spent even more time than
other talisman masters. Only heaven knew if it was worth it.

Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

The tip of the brush that was stained sufficiently in ink floated atop the snow-white and soft
talisman paper, drawing line after line of smooth and winding talisman markings. Chen
Xi’s brush technique was precise and agile, seeming to not be affected by his wrist strength.

However, when he’d crafted this Earthshield Talisman halfway, an uncomfortable feeling
abruptly arose within his heart, as if there was a mistake on the talisman markings. But
when he looked carefully, he didn’t notice a trace of a careless mistake.

Chen Xi frowned and stopped drawing, then silently pondered. He’d crafted no less than a
hundred thousand Earthshield Talismans over these five years, and his brush technique had
already attained the state of being able to finish crafting it without stopping. Why would
such an uncomfortable feeling appear today?

Chen Xi took a deep breath then once again carefully inspected the talisman paper on the
table — the point he started drawing, the symmetry of the ink markings, the talisman
markings pathway… The more he looked at it, the more he felt uncomfortable in his heart,
as if his chest was filled with bricks, causing his breathing to become hurried.

Uncomfortable?

Why would I feel uncomfortable? There’s obviously not even a trace of careless mistake!

Could it be that it’s me who’s mistaken, but…

As if he was struck by a bolt of lightning, a trace of a strong urge arose abruptly within
Chen Xi’s heart, and as if he was possessed, he picked up the talisman brush then swung it
downwards!

The talisman marking pathways atop the talisman paper abruptly changed, the talisman
marking that originally ought to be fine and intricate were simply completed by Chen Xi
with a single stroke, and instead dense and complicated patterns were drawn by him at the
end.

Bang!

After drawing the last stroke, Chen Xi put down the talisman brush and breathed heavily
with his hand pressed upon the wooden table, but his eyes were instead shockingly bright.

“Sure enough, it looks much smoother now, but… Is this still an Earthshield Talisman?”

After a short moment, Chen Xi took up the talisman paper, and couldn’t help but frown as
he gazed upon the talisman markings that were only partially familiar.

“Forget it, I’ll test it first, if it’s wasted, then it’s wasted…” Chen Xi pondered for a
moment and was unable to understand it, so a strand of True Essence gushed out from the
tip of his finger and poured into the talisman paper.
Whoosh!

A dense earthen yellow stream suddenly emerged, and a turtle shaped shield that was as tall
as a person appeared within Chen Xi’s hand.

Success!

Chen Xi heaved a sigh of relief, and at the same time a wisp of shock suddenly surged
within his heart. The structure of talisman markings had experienced infinite years to
develop, and had long since formed a fixed structure. The Earthshield Talisman was one of
such talismans, as the structure of talisman markings within it had long since been
perfected by countless almighty wise men of the past. Not to mention modifying the
talisman markings, even a slight divergence on the pathway of the talisman markings would
possibly cause the entire talisman to fail.

Whereas at this moment, this Earthshield Talisman’s marking pathways had been altered by
nearly 50%, but it was still able to be successfully utilized. How could it not cause Chen Xi
to be shocked?

I… Actually altered the structure of the Earthshield Talisman’s markings?

The knowledge of talismans within Chen Xi’s mind nearly crumbled when he realized this,
he simple dared not believe that the Earthshield Talisman before him was made by his own
two hands.

Then, he was perplexed by a trace of uncertainty, how did he do it earlier?

After bitterly pondering for a long time, Chen Xi abruptly recalled a matter: Senior Fuxi
visualized the River Diagram to comprehend the Dao of deducing the secrets of the
heavens, and not only did he rely on his knowledge in the Dao of talismans to walk out of
the Star Secret Realm, he even obtained the True Body Brand left behind by Senior Fuxi.
Could it be that all this was because of that True Body Brand?

Senior Ji Yu had once said, the True Body Brand contained a trace of the River Diagram’s
true essence, and he’d visualized this True Body brand last night.

Couple with the strengthening of his six senses when he awoke earlier, Chen Xi almost
instantly understood that all this was surely related to him visualizing the True Body Brand
within his sea of consciousness that was left behind by the master of the Manor!

It looked like this method of visualizing wasn’t merely capable of allowing his soul to
become stronger, it was even able to silently benefit his comprehension in the Dao of
talismans.

When Chen Xi straightened out his thinking and was suddenly enlightened, he took up the
talisman brush and once again started crafting.
Time flowed by, in practically not even three hours, 30 Earthshield Talismans that were
completely different from those used in society had appeared into the world, and it was an
entire two hours faster than before!

Two hours! It was sufficient for Chen Xi to do many things!

What caused Chen Xi to be happy the most was that the True Essence within his Dantian
wasn’t completed depleted as usual, and instead more than half still remained. This also
meant that he was completely capable of crafting another 30 Earthshield Talismans, and
would we able to earn an extra 10 spirit stones daily!

I’d better pass these talismans to Uncle Zhang first.  I didn’t craft talismans yesterday, I
wonder if Uncle Zhang will blame me….

Chen Xi took a deep breath and forcefully restrained this pleasant surprise, then stood up
and walked out of his home.

Zhang general store.

Zhang Dayong stood behind the counter. The moment he saw Chen Xi enter, he feigned
rage as he said, “Kid, why were you absent without a reason yesterday? Do you think
you’ve grown up and become independent to the point you don’t intend to work for me?”

A wisp of warmth emerged from Chen Xi’s heart, as during these five years, if it wasn’t for
Uncle Zhang always taking care of him, his entire family would probably have lost its
source of livelihood long ago.

Five years ago, he’d only just learned how to craft basic talismans. He went everywhere to
sell them, but there was rarely anyone who showed interest, and no retailer was willing to
buy them. The consumption of basic talismans within Pine Mist City was extremely great
and retailers were much more willing to purchase in batches, whereas at that time, Chen Xi
was only capable of crafting five basic talismans a day, and was utterly unable to enter the
eyes of the retailers.

Luckily, he chanced upon Zhang Dayong, who expressed his willingness to purchase the
talismans Chen Xi crafted, with a price similar to the market price. It had been like this
throughout these five years, and Zhang Dayong had never once gone back on his words.
This caused Chen Xi to be incomparably grateful to Zhang Dayong, and thus he had always
taken Zhang Dayong as a senior that was most worthy of trust and respect.

“Uncle Zhang, these are the 30 Earthshield Talismans for today.” Chen Xi withdrew a pile
of talismans and passed them over.

Zhang Dayong scolded with a smile. “I knew you’d change the topic, kid.”
As he spoke, he received the pile of talismans and didn’t even glance at is as he casually
placed it on the counter, then withdrew 10 spirit stones and tossed it to Chen Xi as he joked.
“Kid, it’s already been five years, when do you plan to craft second-grade talismans?”

Chen Xi replied. “I already intend to craft them, I only lack the money to buy the books.”

Zhang Dayong was originally joking, but he never expected to receive a serious answer
from Chen Xi, and was slightly startled before bursting into laughter. “Then I’ll be waiting
for you to craft second-grade talismans. I’ll buy as many as you have with a price that
surely fair.”

Chen Xi’s heart was incomparably warm as he gazed at the undisguised encouragement in
Zhang Dayong’s smile, and he nodded solemnly. “Okay, I’ll master it as soon as possible.”

Chen Xi took the 10 spirit stones and a jade slip book, then turned around and left.

“The jinx has finally left…” A talisman crafting apprentice arrived before the counter and
picked up an Earthshield Talisman with a cheeky grin on his face. When he saw clearly the
structure of the talisman markings on it, he couldn’t help but be astonished. “Uncle Zhang,
is this an Earthshield Talisman?”

“Stinking kid, you’ve practiced for more than half a month and you can’t even recognize an
Earthshield Talisman. If you don’t work hard, then pack up and scram!” Zhang Dayong
frowned as he berated, but when his gaze descended onto the talisman paper, he couldn’t
help but be dumbstruck.

Since managing the general store for nearly 30 years, the various basic talismans that
passed through his hands were no less than a hundred, thus Zhang Dayong’s eyesight had
become incomparably sharp since long ago. In practically an instant, he’d discerned that the
structure of the talisman markings on this Earthshield Talisman had been completely
altered.

Could it be that this kid, Chen Xi, has learned to be shifty and started deceiving me?

A trace of an uncomfortable feeling surged from Zhang Dayong’s heart. In these years,
there were some talisman crafting apprentices got up to little tricks thinking they’d be able
to get away with it, but how could they get past Zhang Dayong’s eyes? Zhang Dayong
extremely detested these fellows that resorted to fraud, and would absolutely not show
mercy and send them packing.

Now, the kid that he trusted the most had very likely done this, Zhang Dayong was slightly
unable to accept this, and his face slowly went gloomy.

The unusual scene before the counter slowly drew the attention of the other people within
the store, and they crowded over.
“Oh! This is the Earthshield Talisman that Deadpan Chen crafted? Why does it look fake
the more I look at it?”

“Seems like it to me too. The Earthshield Talisman isn’t crafted like this, the structure of
the talisman markings on the top are completely wrong. This fellow Chen Xi has really
gone too far!”

“Exactly! Uncle Zhang had looked after him for so many years, but he doesn’t know to feel
grateful and repay the kindness, but instead used this shit to deceive others. It’s indeed
shameless.”

Humming sounds of discussions rose and fell, and more or less, there were traces of taking
pleasure in Zhang Dayong’s misfortune on their face.

Zhang Dayong’s face became even more unsightly as time passed, and his heart ached
extremely. He’d already decided, that if Chen Xi didn’t give him an answer that is
satisfactory tomorrow, he’d completely cut off the relationship and not buy the talismans
that Chen Xi crafted any longer!

“Let me see!” A voice that was like a twitter of an oriole in a clear valley abruptly sounded
out, and a young girl in a simple dress passed the crowd of people. She was comely, with
skin that was like snow, and had an appearance that was extremely sweet and beautiful.
She’d only just appeared and had instantly attracted the attention of everyone.
Chapter 16 - Little Princess

The young girl in a simple dress completely paid no attention to the surrounding gazes as
she stretched out her hand to pick up an Earthshield Talisman and studied it for a moment,
then a trace of bewilderment arose within her starry eyes. Obviously, she was unable to
recognize the structure of the talisman markings on the top of the talisman.

So strange! The markings on this talisman are smooth and natural, its ink marks are
symmetrical and lustrous, the brush technique is even precise and agile, and has arrived at
an extremely high standard. How could this possibly be a fraudulent work?”

Dense curiosity arose in the heart of the young girl in a simple dress, and she said in a clear
voice. “Boss, do you mind if I try the might of this talisman?”

Zhang Dayong was startled, then sighed. “Miss, you don’t have to try. I’ve managed this
small store for 30 years, and have handled countless talismans. How could I be unable to
identify the genuineness of an Earthshield Talisman? Even you’ve seen it. The structure of
the talisman markings on these Earthshield Talismans are completely wrong, there’s no use
in trying it.”

“Exactly! Exactly! Uncle Zhang is surely correct. The talismans this fellow Chen Xi crafted
today is absolutely a scam. There’s no point in trying it.”

The surrounding talisman crafting disciples agreed in unison. Their identities were lowly,
and they had never come into close contact with such a beautiful young girl, thus they
naturally firmly grasped all opportunities to please her.

“How would you know its genuineness without trying?” The young girl in a simple dress
lightly smiled, like a lotus bud blooming after the rain, beautiful and refined. As she spoke,
she’d already arrived at an empty space and with a swing of her white hand, a pure and
thick strand of True Essence poured into the talisman paper.

A shocking scene appeared, the talisman suddenly transformed into a dense earthen yellow
gentle light that ceaselessly roiled, then condensed into an enormous shield that was like
the shape of a turtle. Bright lights coiled around it as it emitted a thick and solid aura.

Whoosh!

The indifference in the gazes of everyone instantly transformed into disbelief, and their
appearances were as if they’d seen a ghost.

Zhang Dayong couldn’t help but be extremely astounded, it’s actually really an
Earthshield Talisman? Could it be that I was mistaken earlier?

As expected!
As if the guess in her heart obtained affirmation, the eyes of the young girl in a simple dress
abruptly shone, and without hesitation, her left hand was covered fully by thick True
Essence before fiercely slapping her hand onto the turtle shaped shield.

Bang!

A loud clunk sounded out and a burst of violent fluctuating ripples appeared on the surface
of the turtle shaped shield, and it quickly recovered to its previous state.

If it was an ordinary Earthshield Talisman, it would be utterly unable to withstand 10% of

my strength, this strange Earthshield Talisman was formidable, as expected!     

The eyes of the young girl in a simple dress grew brighter when she saw this, then once
again urged her True Essence before flipping her delicate hand to carry along an ear
piercing howl of the wind as it hit onto the surface of the shield.

Whoosh! Whoosh!

The turtle shaped shield violently fluctuated, and the spirit energy suffused within it
became exceedingly dim, it was already on the verge of collapse.

Actually able to withstand 20% of my strength? Such a basic talisman is already sufficient
to be on par with the might of a second-grade talisman!

The young girl in a simple dress was dumbstruck, then a wisp of excitement flowed out
from within her eyes. She casually shattered the turtle shaped shield that couldn’t withstand
another blow before arriving before the counter and saying, “Boss, I want all of these
Earthshield Talismans!”

Zhang Dayong had long since been shocked to the point he was stunned from the series of
unforeseen events before him, and he abruptly awoke from his shock when he heard her,
but he hesitated and kept silent.

Through the test of the young girl in a simple dress earlier, he’d already perceived that the
Earthshield Talisman’s Chen Xi crafted this time had a might that far surpassed the
ordinary, even to the extent it was able to compare with a second-grade talisman. The
price… Shouldn’t it be hiked up slightly?

The young girl in a simple dress frowned and said in an unhappy tone. “Boss, don’t lie
about the price. I’ll at most give you one spirit stone for an Earthshield Talisman.”

Zhang Dayong didn’t try to conceal it when his thoughts were seen through, and smiled
brilliantly. “Miss, I can sell this Earthshield Talisman to you, but I can’t sell them all to
you. Even you know that the structure of the talisman markings of the Earthshield Talisman
have experienced endless years of perfection, and the structure of the talisman markings
had long since arrived at the most perfect state. Wanting to alter it again is simply an
impossible matter. However the appearance of these Earthshield Talisman’s before our eyes
is no different from a miracle. Under these circumstances, I naturally have to keep some
and use them to completely boost the reputation of my store!

“Think about it. A new structure of talisman markings emerging into the world, what sort
of a sensational matter it would be to the entire talisman profession? And being able to
manage these new type of Earthshield Talisman’s at the first possible moment is the great
fortune of my Zhang general store!”

The more he spoke, the more Zhang Dayong got excited, and his eyes emitted boundless
hope, as if he’d already seen the glorious future.

The young girl in a simple dress scrunched up her nose, and she had no choice but to
compromise. In the end, she purchased 15 Earthshield Talismans for the price of 15 spirit
stones.

“Uncle Zhang, what you say couldn’t be… be true right?” A talisman crafting apprentice
walked up with a face full of astonishment.

“Yeah, the Earthshield Talisman Chen Xi crafted isn’t as formidable as you said. Isn’t it
only a basic talisman, how can it be called a miracle?”

The other talisman crafting apprentices spoke out as well. The talismans that were
originally equivalent to fraud had suddenly become a miraculous matter that could stir the
entire talisman profession. For a time, they felt unable to wrap their heads around the
matter.

Most importantly, these Earthshield Talismans were crafted by the Jinx, Chen Xi. In this
way, wouldn’t it mean that this fellow would rise in status as well?

Zhang Dayong swept everyone with his gaze then coldly said, “I know that all of you think
Chen Xi is a jinx, and it serves him right to be worse than all of you and be ridiculed by all
of you, right?”

“But I want to tell all of you that if you want to continue working here, then don’t let me
hear you mention even a bit of an unpleasant remark about Chen Xi. Otherwise, pack your
bags and leave!” Zhang Dayong’s voice abruptly went exceedingly cold and stern.

Everyone was silent like a cicada in cold weather.

Yet Zhang Dayong still felt furious and embarrassed, he wasn’t vexed towards these
apprentices, but instead resented himself for nearly misunderstanding Chen Xi.

Yes, when Chen Xi comes again tomorrow, I must give him a raise!
Zhang Dayong made a decision, then he recalled the young girl in a simple dress from
earlier, and he had the feeling as if he’d seen her somewhere.

Clap!

After silently pondering for a long while, Zhang Dayong suddenly slapped his forehead,
then muttered. “No wonder she seemed so familiar. The Jade-severing Palm she used
earlier is the profound skill that General Qin of the General’s Estate used to become
famous, she ought to be the little master of the Generals Estate — Qin Hongmian!”

“If you want to become a qualified spirit chef, then you must master the eight great sections
— the ingredients, knife skills, the stove, the spirit flames, the utensils, the seasoning, the
water, and the cooking method. Amongst them, the ingredients, knife skills, and the spirit
flames are of the utmost importance and the others doesn’t require much study.

“This An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients records tens of thousands of spirit
herbs, fruits and vegetables, grains, demon beasts, wild animals, etc. It can be said to be all-
encompassing and lacks nothing. What you need to do is become familiar with the various
different grades of ingredients. Then understand its attributes, taste, color, and the
substance that’s able to reinforce or counteract it. Only then would you be able to cook a
delicacy that’s abundant in spirit energy with varying effects.

“This Collection of Spirit Flames instead records various spirit flames of different attributes
from the first-grade to the fifth-grade. According to the different ingredients, the spirit
flames required during cooking are different. Only like this would you be able to allow
your dishes to attain the most superb effects.”

After Chen Xi returned home, he was called over by Bai Wanqing and she carefully
explained the skills a spirit chef had to master. Thus it could be seen how much she cared
about Chen Xi’s affairs.

Chen Xi naturally wouldn’t refuse Bai Wanqing’s good intentions, and he listened
respectfully with a meticulously attentive expression.

“As for knife skills, you’ve already passed old man Ma’s test, you’ll just have to follow
him and practice.” Bai Wanqing smiled happily as she finished speaking, then asked. “Do
you have any other questions?”

Chen Xi pondered for a moment then asked. “Yesterday at Clear Stream Restaurant, I heard
that old man Ma and the other two are all 3 leaf spirit chefs. Could it be that the profession
of spirit chefs is divided into different grades?”
Bai Wanqing replied. “Of course. After all is said and done, a spirit chef provides services
to cultivators, and the dishes that are cooked are according to the cultivators’ realm. The
dishes that a 1 leaf spirit chef cooks are extremely beneficial to a Postnatal Realm
cultivator. A 2 leaf spirit chef is instead able to cook dishes required by Congenital Realm
cultivators. It goes up successively until the 8 leaf spirit chef which is able to cook dishes
that are already capable of providing boundless benefits to an Earthly Immortal, and is
comparable to a heaven-rank spirit pill!”

Heaven-rank spirit pill?

A trace of shock was unable to be suppressed from emerging within Chen Xi’s heart,
according to his knowledge, spirit pills were divided into the heaven-rank, earth-rank,
profound-rank, and yellow-rank. Every rank is further divided into the low-grade,
intermediate-grade, high-grade, and top-grade. Heaven-rank spirit pills were the rarest, and
within the entire Darchu Dynasty, it could be called an existence that was like phoenix
feathers and qilin horns.

When he heard that an 8 leaf spirit chef was able to cook dishes that were comparable to a
heaven-rank spirit pill, how could it not cause Chen Xi to be shocked?

“But, the advancement for a spirit chef is much more difficult compared to an alchemist,
Don’t mention 8 leaf spirit chefs, in the entire Darchu Dynasty, there’re only a handful of 7
leaf spirit chefs.”

Bai Wanqing gazed at Chen Xi as she said with a smile. “Don’t be discouraged, so long as
you persist, then you’ll have hope. But a spirit chef is an auxiliary profession after all, so
only after you’ve earned sufficient spirit stones, don’t waste too much time on it so as to
avoid delaying your cultivation.”

Chen Xi nodded, he’d learned talisman crafting and the culinary arts all for the sake of
allowing his young brother and himself to continue to live. His final goal was still to
cultivate more and become even stronger.

In the next few days, Chen Xi continuously cultivated bitterly.

He crafted talismans and reviewed An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients and
Collection of Spirit Flames during the day; drew upon the Seventh Goldstar baleful qi to
temper his physique at night, then cultivated the Violet Sky Arts until falling asleep before
dawn. Only then would he use the little remaining time to enter his sea of consciousness
and visualize the Fuxi Divine Statue.

Days were passed quickly, to the extent that it could be described as intensely.
His nerves felt stiff all the time, as he didn’t dare slack for a moment. Since the day his
grandfather Chen Tianli was killed, his head was always filled with a dense sense of
danger, urging him to not dare waste even a bit of time.

What caused Chen Xi to be happy was that he’d once again crafted another seven or eight
types of basic talismans with different attributes. Even though the structure of the talisman
markings were completely different to before, its might was comparable to a second-grade
talisman. And when he took them to the Zhang general store, they were all sold for three
spirit stones each. Its price had hiked an entire nine fold, causing him to earn tremendously.

But his advanced in body refinement and qi refinement were still as extremely slow as
before, and the fundamental cause of this was the lack of large amounts of spirit energy.

The Dao of cultivation stressed upon four words — wealth, companions, techniques, and
location. Wealth was in the first place, but in this case, the wealth wasn’t gold nor silver,
but instead spirit stones, spirit pills, immortal herbs, etc. If one wanted to train, then one
needed to eat their fill; and if one wanted to cultivate, then one needed to absorb spirit
energy. Spirit pills, spirit stones, and similar treasures were an essential form of assistance.

Companions were in the second place, it could be a Dao companion,[1. A more advanced
form of girlfriend/wife, where they are partners on the journey of cultivation.] but mostly it
was the relationship between master and disciple. With the guidance of one’s master, one
could reduce the amount of detours taken during cultivation, and it was far more efficient
than fumbling by one’s self.

The so-called techniques were the Divine Abilities, Techniques, and cultivation methods.
First rate cultivation methods were not only able to shorten time cultivation time, but to a
great degree they were also able to prevent one from sinking into a bottleneck and suffering
from qi deviation.

Location instead pointed toward some so-called Blessed Immortal Grounds, and places
where sects were established were situated at places where spirit energy gathered.
Cultivation there was naturally much better than those mountains that had scarce spirit
energy.

Those that are really born in famous sects and great clans might have started cultivating
since they were young. They ate rare and treasured spirit pills, cultivated first-rate methods,
occupied blessed grounds where spirit veins gathered, and even had seniors from their sect
or clan to earnestly and tirelessly guide them. Their cultivation speed was absolutely not
something ordinary cultivators could compare to.

Chen Xi didn’t have spirit pills, nor did he have blessed grounds available for him to
cultivate in, nor a senior that was available to guide him. Among the four words of wealth,
companions, techniques, and location, he only occupied the word of techniques. Every day,
he still had to craft talismans to earn spirit stones to maintain his livelihood, so how could
his cultivation possibly advance by leaps and bounds?
“I must make old man Ma take me as his disciple today. After I become a spirit chef
apprentice at the Clear Stream Restaurant, I’ll surely be able to earn even more spirit
stones. If I calculate carefully and meticulously, I’ll be completely able to buy myself some
spirit pills that’re required for cultivating!”

Chen Xi silently recalled the An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients and
Collection of Spirit Flames in his mind, and he only stood up and walked out of the house
when he ensured that he didn’t have a trace of omission.

“Let’s go, future great spirit chef.” Outside the door, Bai Wanqing had a brilliant smile. She
had been waiting for quite some time.
Chapter 17 - Test

Clear Stream Restaurant, second floor of the rear kitchen.

When Chen Xi and Bai Wanqing walked in, old man Ma, Qiao Nan, and Pei Pei were all
present. The corners of Qiao Nan’s lips beamed as he grinned and whistled vibrantly.
“Pretty Lady Bai, not seeing you for 10 days is like 10 years. I missed you extremely. Have
you been well?”

Pei Pei instead held her coquettish face with her hands as she gazed at Chen Xi in
infatuation and muttered. “Mmm, Little Brother Chen Xi seems to have become even more
handsome, so manly. Oh!”

Old man Ma struck the iron ladle in his hand to make banging sounds, and his voice was
like thunder as he stomped his foot and roared. “As my fucking Junior Brother and Junior
Sister, you two are actually so shameless. Fucking shut your mouths!”

Qiao Nan and Pei Pei pursed their lips, incomparably resentful.

Chen Xi had experienced such a scene long ago, so he didn’t feel surprised and only was
slightly unable to endure the delicate and charming woman, Pei Pei. He said in his heart,
Once old man Ma becomes my master, you’ll become my Martial Aunt. Can’t you exercise
a little restraint when you speak?

“I presume you’ve already learned the An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients
and Collection of Spirit Flames like the back of your hands in this 10 days of time. I’ll give
you a question, and if you can answer it then I’ll take you as my disciple. If you’re unable
to answer it, then hurry up and leave so as to avoid wasting each other’s time.” Old man
Ma’s expression went serious and he started testing what Chen Xi learned in these 10 days.

Chen Xi nodded with a calm expression.

In these past ten days, his soul had become many time stronger than before from visualizing
the Fuxi Divine Statue. It was precisely because of this that he was able to learn by heart
the knowledge that was as vast as the sea within the An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food
Ingredients and Collection of Spirit Flames in such a short amount of time.

Chen Xi was confident that so long as the question was from within those two books, he
would surely not make a mistake in the slightest!

The question old man Ma produced only consisted of two words — Rainbow Spindrift!
This was the name of a dish that only a 5 leaf spirit chef was able to cook because the
ingredients and spirit flame used all contained extremely particular requirements and it had
an extremely high difficulty. This dish was also specially prepared for Golden Core Realm
cultivators.
However, within the An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients, the ranking of
Rainbow Spindrift amongst the myriad of dishes wasn’t high. When compared to the other
dishes that were available to Golden Core Realm cultivators for consumption, the Rainbow
Spindrift was undoubtedly one of the most troublesome dishes to be prepared. Solely the
various ingredients of different attributes that were used included more than 100 types, and
the steps to cook it even reached of a thousand. Unless it was of necessity, a 5 leaf spirit
chef would be unwilling to cook this dish. Thus naturally, very few people showed any
interest towards the name, Rainbow Spindrift.

As far as old man Ma was concerned, if Chen Xi truly completely mastered the An
Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients, then using Rainbow Spindrift to test him
was extremely suitable.

“In those days amongst the three of us, only I remembered this dish. Even if he’s any more
intelligent, it would still be impossible for him to compare to me, and he would only be
able to barely compare with you and Junior Sister. Senior Brother, aren’t you making things
too difficult for him?” Qiao Nan respectfully protested for Chen Xi, but his words were
filled with self-praise. Obviously, this fellow was extremely vain no matter what.

“Yeah, Senior Brother, you wouldn’t be envious of Little Brother Chen Xi’s appearance
being more handsome than yours right? And you’re not using a different method to send
him packing, right? I won’t agree to it.” Pei Pei rolled her eyes and started using her own
methods to protest for Chen Xi.

The veins on old man Ma’s forehead popped up as he gnashed his teeth and barked. “SHUT
UP! You’re a narcissist and you’re a boy crazy ditz! What qualifications do the two of you
have to fucking challenge me? I’m the fucking Senior Brother, my say is fucking final!”

Qiao Nan and Pei Pei went silent once again, with an appearance of helplessness from
surrendering to despotic power.

“It’s not a problem, right?” Although Bai Wanqing didn’t know the difficulty of the
Rainbow Spindrift, but from the behaviour of Qiao Nan and Pei Pei, she could roughly
guess its difficulty.

She couldn’t help but have a worried expression as she gazed at Chen Xi, and she was
extremely suspicious in her heart. Could it be that this old fart is really making things
difficult for Chen Xi?

Chen Xi nodded towards Bai Wanqing, he was perfectly composed and practically didn’t
hesitate before saying, “The Rainbow Spindrift is made from the Azure Spiral Root, Inky
Laurel Flower, Violet Vine Nine Leaf Fruit, Dragon Feeler Poria Branch…”

Chen Xi recited with a voice that brought along a trace of a unique serene force, as it
resounded out into the ears of everyone present in an orderly way.
“These 100 ingredients have attributes that include the five elements, Yin, and Yang. All of
them require being sliced into threads that attain the state of being fine like cotton fibres,
and this constitutes the first step. The second step is to use 10,000 Year Stalactite Milk as a
pool, then sort these ingredients into different attributes before soaking them and
cultivating them in the pool. Up to the point the threads are smooth as water and flexible
like tendons, then use Azurewood Spirit Flame, Tenthwater Spirit Flame, Crimsonfire
Spirit Flame…”

In next to no time, Chen Xi had already had spoken of nearly 100 ingredients of various
attributes, then started talking about the handling of the ingredients. Bai Wanqing didn’t
understand these, but she clearly saw that along with names of ingredients floating out of
Chen Xi’s mouth one by one, the expressions on old man Ma and the others gradually
became serious and their eyes vaguely revealed a trace of astonishment.

She couldn’t help but secretly heave a sigh of relief, and a strand of a sense of pride arose
within her heart as she anticipated Chen Xi’s performance even more.

“Oh, this kid’s memory isn’t bad. He’ll soon catch up with me during that year.” Qiao Nan
was startled as he spoke with a tone that had a trace of unnaturalness.

“It can’t be! You’re still vain even now? I remember that although you remembered all the
steps of the Rainbow Spindrift that year, you also had over ten omissions. Little Brother
Chen Xi hasn’t had a trace of mistake up until now.” Pei Pei exposed him relentlessly.

Embarrassment flashed on Qiao Nan’s face, then his face went sombre. “Actually, I could
have achieved perfection that time, but it’s all because I was too kind hearted and couldn’t
bear to cause you and Senior Brother to lose face. So, I intentionally…”

“SHUT UP!” Old man Ma’s suppressed his voice and interrupted. “I’m fucking taking a
disciple, not listening to you blow your own trumpet!”

Qiao Nan lightly sighed, then unhurriedly stroked his chin. He had a bleak and desolate
expression from not being understood, but in his heart he was instead burning with
impatience. He was flustered and exasperated as he nagged. “Kid, hurry up and make a
mistake. Otherwise, my stalwart and talented image will be completely destroyed. How
would I strike up a conversation with beauties in the future…?”

However, what caused Qiao Nan to despair was that fifteen minutes had passed, but Chen
Xi still didn’t have a single omission. On the contrary, his thoughts became clearer and
clearer, his speed of speaking faster and faster, simply able to be said that his mouth was
like a rushing river that was pouring out like a flood.

Qiao Nan was battered out of his senses. “It’s over, this genius’ record from that year has
been broken…”
Pei Pei muttered in infatuation. “A confident man is the most handsome. Mmm, Big Sister
has been captured and is stuck in the snares of love, and I’m unable to free myself.”

Bai Wanqing was radiant, and she ceaselessly repeated. “Not bad, not bad…”

Old man Ma’s shrivelled and stiff face had already bloomed into a smile, like a daisy that
bloomed vigorously after autumn.

“In conclusion, so long as these different ingredients are handled according to these steps
that I’ve mentioned, it’s completely able to form a unique exterior of spindrifts gathering to
make a rainbow manifest, after baking it with Spirit Gathering Yin Flame.”

After the time for an incense stick to burn, Chen Xi finally completely explained all the
steps of the Rainbow Spindrift. When raised his eyes to look, he instead noticed the
surrounding people were all dumbstruck with absent-minded appearances, and he couldn’t
help but be slightly startled as he thought to himself. Could it be that I made a mistake?

He didn’t know how great of a shock that these two hours of him explaining without the
slightest mistake brought to the others, but he was extremely clear that today was the time
he spoke the most, and it was practically worth the amount he spoke in a year.

“Cough. Mmm, being able to achieve such a degree in 10 days, your natural talent is
alright.” After a long time, old man Ma coughed dryly to break the silence.

Chen Xi let out a sigh of relief, it was alright as long as he passed the test. As for how his
natural talent was, he didn’t care to fuss about it.

“What do you mean by natural talent is alright?” Qiao Nan was as if been provoked, and he
didn’t have a trace of poise anymore. He waved his arms about like he was in a frenzy as he
roared. “How can a fellow that is a bigger genius than this genius be called as alright
natural talent? Then what about me? Trash with stupid natural talent?”

Pei Pei was unable to bear with old man Ma’s evaluation as well, and she spoke with
extremely sharp words. “Senior Brother, when you explained the Rainbow Spindrift to
Master all those years ago, you were oppressed to the point your face flushed red. You
hummed and hawed for more than half a day, and even got a more than half of it wrong,
you…”

Old man Ma was embarrassed to the point he become incomparably furious when his old
scars were exposed in his face, and he roared to interrupt Pei Pei at once. “Is it not enough
that I fucking admit he’s a genius? Would the two of you die if you shut your mouths and
be silent!?”
Old man Ma stopped for a moment, then said weakly, “Actually, I was afraid he would be
arrogant, so I merely struck a small blow to his confidence.”

Qiao Nan and Pei Pei rolled their eyes in unison.

Chen Xi was confused by this, he extremely lacked the awareness of the importance of
becoming a genius, and he only muttered in his heart. These three fellows are really
strange…

Bai Wanqing pulled on the corner of Chen Xi’s sleeve and said softly. “Did you know
earlier that old man Ma was going to test this Rainbow Spindrift?”

Chen Xi was startled then shook his head. “I didn’t know.”

Bai Wanqing said in amazement, “That is to say you’ve completely mastered the An
Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients and the Collection of Spirit Flames?”

Chen Xi was bewildered. “Is there a problem?”

He was indeed extremely bewildered, as far as he was concerned, wasn’t it just memorizing
some words, what was so worthy of being surprised of?

Bai Wanqing was finally convinced from Chen Xi’s tone. This fellow had indeed
completely memorized the two books, and she couldn’t help but have a trace of
inexplicable shock arise within her.

She’d once glanced through the An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients, and
there was a few tens of thousands of ingredients. Wanting to remember by heart all the
names, attributes, appearances, affects, growth environments, etc., of these tens of
thousands of ingredients wasn’t something that was able to be done in a short amount of
time. Whereas Chen Xi had instead memorized all of them within 10 days. How could it
not shock others?

But this wasn’t important, as if it was another fellow with shocking memory, so long as the
fellow was willing to spend the time, then the fellow would similarly be able to do this.
What was important was Chen Xi had not only remembered these ingredients, but was also
able to master in detail the dishes that could be cooked with these ingredients and every
step during the cooking process without mistake. This was what caused others to feel
shocked the most.

Of course, if Chen Xi was a Violet Palace Realm cultivator who had condensed Perception
Force, he would naturally be able to memorize everything within 10 days. But the facts
were that Chen Xi merely possessed the cultivation of the 3rd level of the Congenital
Realm and it had long since been seen through by old man Ma and the others. Thus, it was
completely impossible for them to regard him as a Violet Palace Realm cultivator.
It was precisely because of this reason that old man Ma and the others felt incomparably
shocked and regarded Chen Xi as an extraordinary and intelligent genius.

Bai Wanqing had figured out all this now, and besides being shocked, she couldn’t help but
feel proud and happy for Chen Xi.

She knew how much suffering the youth before her had suffered since a young age, and
what sort of painful hardships he’d experienced. Now that it was like he was reborn and
started to emit the radiance that belonged to him, how could it not cause her to be happy?

“Old man Ma, since you’ve recruited a disciple, then sign an agreement with me.” Right at
that moment, a voice that was as chilly as ice faintly sounded out from outside, and
accompanied by this voice, the door was pushed open. An extremely beautiful young girl
walked in with a proud and aloof, yet icy cold expression.
Chapter 18 - Du Qingxi

Along with the entrance of this young girl, the room suddenly went silent, and even
narcissistic Qiao Nan and the boy crazy Pei Pei self-consciously shut their mouths.

Chen Xi looked up and a woman in a black dress with a tall and well-proportioned figure
entered his eyes. The woman was as pretty as a picture; she had a fine nose and cherry lips
with skin that was white as snow. Looking from afar, she seemed like a proud and aloof
black peony that was in full bloom, revealing a unique icy cold feeling.

“She’s Du Qingxi[1. Her name (杜清溪) forms part of the name of the restaurant (清溪酒
楼), but I prefer translating her name when used in the restaurant than calling it Qingxi
Restaurant], the owner of Clear Stream Restaurant. She usually lives in seclusion and is
rarely seen, as she’s in closed door cultivation most of the time and extremely rarely comes
within the restaurant. Her origins are rather mysterious and no one knows of her strength.
Supposedly even General Qin of the General’s Estate has to be courteous to her.” Bai
Wanqing’s voice that was gentle and pleasing silently pierced into Chen Xi’s ears, and only
then did he understand the identity of the woman before him. Chen Xi couldn’t help but be
slightly astonished, the ability of this woman was indeed extremely astonishing, as she was
able to control the number one restaurant in Pine Mist City at such a young age.

After Du Qingxi walked in, she directly ignored everyone else and only covertly glanced at
Chen Xi before directing her gaze at old man Ma as she directly said, “The disciple you’ve
recruited will be provided with 100 spirit stones a day, and the materials needed for
practicing his culinary arts will be provided for free. But he must sign a three year
agreement with me and guarantee to only work in my Clear Stream Restaurant within the
next three years. How about it?” Her voice was frosty, and it revealed a sense of being
unquestionable.

Old man Ma shook his head. “I only pass down culinary arts, you have to discuss these
things with that kid.”

Du Qingxi’s beautiful brows frowned as she looked at Chen Xi and slowly said, “You’ve
heard my conditions clearly, to sign or not to sign the agreement is all up to you.”

Truthfully speaking, these conditions had already exceeded Chen Xi’s expectations, as he
originally thought that being able to earn a few tens of spirit stones would already be a
blessing. Never had he imagined that Du Qingxi would directly give him a remuneration of
100 spirit stones, and at the same moment that he was stunned, he couldn’t help but feel
extremely pleasantly surprised.

Chen Xi silently pondered for a moment before making his decision and replying. “I can
agree to only working at Clear Stream Restaurant, but I’m unable to guarantee the time.
However, what I can assure you is that as long as I’m within Pine Mist City, I will not work
in another restaurant.”
He did this to be prepared for any contingencies, as he was burdened with too many things
and was utterly unable to guarantee if he would be able to be a spirit chef apprentice for
three years in Clear Stream Restaurant.

Du Qingxi was startled, seeming to have never expected that Chen Xi would dare to
negotiate with her, and she coldly nodded after some time. “I hope you can abide by your
promise.”

She turned around and left after she finished. Her actions were decisive, without the
slightest hesitation.

It had only been a short while since the moment Du Qingxi entered and left the room, but
the grandness of her presence and the decisiveness of her words were expressed vividly.
Coupled with her extremely beautiful icy cold appearance that was proud and aloof, she
was like a queen that stood above the masses as she inspected her territory, causing one to
unconsciously feel reverence.

But all this had very little effect on Chen Xi, as he only knew that he’d already become a
spirit chef apprentice that had a remuneration of over 100 spirit stones a day. So, his mood
was extremely happy and he completely didn’t mind how dominating Du Qingxi’s attitude
was.

“Miss, we’ve already finished investigating, this is the detailed information on Chen Xi.”
Wu Feng had a respectful expression and passed over a piece of paper.

Wu Feng’s face was fair and clear, with a feminine disposition. When Du Qingxi was born,
he was arranged to be like a shadow guarding by her side.

“Chen Xi, originally the eldest grandson of the eldest son of Pine Mist City’s Chen Clan…”

The paper recorded everything about Chen Xi in detail; all the things that had happened
since he was born until now all appeared on the thin piece of paper.

After Du Qingxi finished reading, a trace of rare surprise appeared within her chilly starry
eyes. “Clan annihilated, parents separated, marriage contract torn to shreds, grandfather
killed… This fellow is really misfortunate, no wonder others call him a jinx.”

Wu Feng frowned. “Miss, you wouldn’t be feeling pity for him so you gave him such
generous conditions, right? Those ingredients are all things that are filled with spirit energy,
just allowing him to waste it like this, seems… slightly improper, right?”

Du Qingxi said indifferently, “So long as he’s able to learn 10% of old man Ma’s culinary
arts before the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials, so what if he wastes some
materials?”
Wu Feng seemed to have realized something as he exclaimed in shock. “Miss, could it be
that you really want to head to the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain?”

Du Qingxi said indifferently, “Exactly, I’ve already obtained an Essence Seal Pill, so
reducing my cultivation to the Congenital Realm isn’t a problem. But you know as well, the
spirit energy in the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain is exhausted, and baleful qi billows.
If I’m not accompanied by a spirit chef, then bitterly spending three years there will only
lead to death.”

Wu Feng was astounded. “How could it be three years? Normally when the Southern
Barbaric Nether Domain opens, it would close within three months. Could it be that there’s
some unforeseen event this time?”

Du Qingxi coldly glanced at Wu Feng, then said after a long time. “These thing were told
to me by my father. Are you sure you want to know?”

Wu Feng seemed to have thought of something terrifying as he fiercely shuddered, then

hurriedly shook his head. “This subordinate is only worried about Miss’ safety, and has
absolutely no intention of offence.”

Du Qingxi waved her hand and instructed. “You stand down first. Remember, don’t spread
the matter of Chen Xi practicing culinary arts in Clear Stream Restaurant. Although the Li
Clan is small, the shadow of the Su Clan lurks behind it. It’s better to not have a dispute
with them.”

Wu Feng respectfully complied, then his body swayed before transforming into a faintly
discernible black smoke that disappeared.

Not long after Du Qingxi left, Bai Wanqing bid her farewell and left as well. As for Qiao
Nan and Pei Pei, old man Ma directly waved the iron ladle about to drive them out of the
room, only leaving him and Chen Xi behind.

Old man Ma didn’t like talking nonsense, and he had utterly no intention of having a
conversation with Chen Xi as he started passing down his culinary arts right away.

Before he started teaching, wooden puppets held trays that were like flowing water and
placed them before Chen Xi. Within every tray was many types of various ingredients that
hadn’t been cleaned and cut, and spirit energy suffused out, causing it to be extremely
conspicuous.

Chen Xi roughly counted, and he couldn’t help be startled by the entire 100 plus trays that
contained over a thousand ingredients. What did old man Ma want to do?
“These 1308 types of ingredients contain fruits, vegetables, grains, demon beast flesh…
They’re the most basic ingredients, and are also called low-grade ingredients. So long as
you’re able to cook various different dishes with these ingredients and its effects are able to
be enjoyed by Postnatal Realm cultivators, then you’ll be considered as having learned the
basics.”

“I’ll demonstrate the method of cooking 13 dishes now. Within these 13 dishes, each of
them places particular emphasis on various things such as knife skill, spirit flames and
pairing of the five elements. Pay attention and learn.” Old man Ma was brimming with
energy and vitality as he explained a great many things while his spittle scattered about,
then he arrived before the stove and casually grabbed a few ingredients and started
personally instructing.

“This dish is called Fragrant Chili Braised Crimson-Horn Prawn. The Crimson-Horn
Prawns are 0.33m long and live on the bank of spirit lakes. They’re of cold-yin attribute
with a fresh and tender texture. It must be cooked with fiery-yang attribute shellfish with a
piercingly hot taste as supplementary ingredients. Then further supplement it with Kyllinga
Herb, Azure Haired Wild Boar Lard, Emerald Crystal Salt, etc. Then, use Blazing Yang
Flame…” As he spoke, old man Ma’s hands weren’t idle, as they first cleaned and cut the
materials, then controlled the spirit flame. Once the flames heated up, he put in the
seasonings, then held the ladle and lifted up the wok before swiftly stirring with smooth and
swift movements that seemed extremely free and easy.

Chen Xi devoted his heart and soul as he stared unblinkingly at old man Ma.

Five years spent doing talisman crafting caused him to develop an extremely good habit,
and that was no matter what he did, so long as he wanted to do it, he would be able to put
his heart and soul into it in an extremely short amount of time.

These 10 days, Chen Xi had visualized the Fuxi Divine Statue without slacking in the
slightest. The strength of his soul was advancing by leaps and bounds with a shocking
speed, and it had already faintly arrived at the verge of breakthrough.

At this moment, he had only just gathered his condition when his mind instantly entered a
clear and nimble state. The movements of old man Ma became slow in his eyes, every
movement and every step was seen by him perfectly, then memorized in his heart.

Sizzle!

Strands of striking fragrance that suffocated the nose with a pungent smell drifted out in the
entire room.

Not long after, a Crimson-Horn Prawn that was red as fire occupied the pure white jade
tray, and traces of glossy and boiling sauce hissed on the surface of the Crimson-Horn
Prawn as it emitted a pungent fragrance that caused one to drool.
“Try it, if you can’t prepare it to attain this taste in the future, then don’t tell anyone that
you’re my disciple!” Old man Ma was brimming with energy and vigor, and he revealed a
sense of proudness, as he was obviously extremely confident of his skill.

Chen Xi gulped down a mouthful of saliva with difficulty before picking up the chopsticks
and lightly touching the prawn’s shell. The Crimson-Horn Prawn split open neatly from the
middle, revealing the snow white and translucent flesh within, and the fragrance it emitted
became even more dense and enticing. The tip of his chopstick lightly flicked as he picked
up a piece of prawn flesh that emitted steam, then placed it into his mouth.

The moment the prawn flesh touched his tongue, a unique fresh and hot feeling instantly
covered his entire body. Chen Xi felt his tongue lightly tremble as if shocked by electricity,
and his mouth was filled with a numbing tender and smooth feeling, causing him to be
unable to help from lightly chewing. The prawn flesh was smooth and supple, with a
pungent and refreshing taste, and was extremely delicious.

“How do you feel?” Old man Ma crossed his arms before him, and had an appearance that
was brimming with confidence.

Chen Xi mumbled. “Let me eat another mouthful.”

As he spoke, he once again waved his chopsticks, and they swiftly swooped down like rain
drops. He didn’t have the usual sedate and calm appearance, and was instead like a
reincarnated hungry ghost as he gobbled down. In the blink of an eye, he’d already cleanly
annihilated the entire Crimson-Horn Prawn.

It wasn’t Chen Xi’s fault that he forgot himself like this, as this Crimson-Horn Prawn was
really too delicious. To him who had only eaten white rice and salted vegetables for the
past ten years, the Crimson-Horn Prawn was no different from a supreme delicacy that was
rare in the world, causing him to be unable to stop even though he wanted to.

Most importantly, after he ate the Crimson-Horn Prawn, he clearly perceived a burst of rich
spirit energy gush into his Dantian like a stream, actually causing his cultivation to instantly
explosively increase by a shred!

Chen Xi couldn’t help be sigh extremely emotionally, no wonder all the rich and powerful
sects and families had their own spirit chefs. Not only are they able to savor delicacies, but
they’re also able to absorb spirit energy. Who wouldn’t be willing to enjoy such dishes?

Old man Ma was extremely satisfied with Chen Xi’s behaviour, as actions always spoke
louder than words, and Chen Xi gulping down the dish earlier was undoubtedly the highest
praise to his culinary arts. But he still said in contempt. “Kid, this is only a dish prepared
for Postnatal Realm cultivators, can you be a little more mature?”

Chen Xi went silent, but he was incomparably ashamed in his heart, he had indeed
forgotten himself earlier…
“To a qualified spirit chef, delicious delicacies are a Great Dao that’s able to cause tongues
to be unbound, and allow life and cultivation to be rich and brilliant. It’s the final
destination that every spirit chef seeks and climbs towards their entire lifetime. Kid, it isn’t
such a simple matter to become a qualified spirit chef.” Old man Ma’s expression suddenly
became incomparably solemn, and his eyes revealed boundless fanaticism and staunchness.

Chen Xi was incomparably dazed, and he was unconsciously filled with anticipation
towards his future life!
Chapter 19 - Quiet Room

“Eight Treasures Fragrant Rice, Stewed Coiling Dragon in Brown Sauce, Dry-fried Inksoul
Scorpion, Mixed Stew Azure Silkie...”

Old man Ma’s culinary arts had indeed attained an extraordinary level; in less than an hour,
he had once again cooked another 13 extremely delicious delicacies.

Chen Xi felt extreme happiness, happiness that he had never felt since he was a child. Dish
after dish of delicious delicacies that he’d never tasted in his life; they not only caused his
six senses to obtain extreme satisfaction, but the pure and thick spirit energy that was
contained within the dishes were like rainfall after a drought as they gathered within his
Dantian, actually gradually condensing into the fourth True Essence violet cloud in an
extremely short amount of time!

With every increase in one’s level of the Congenital Realm, a cloud condensed from True
Essence would appear within the Dantian, and it was called the cloud stairway of
foundation building. It continued until nine clouds were formed, then one could develop the
Violet Palace to become a Violet Palace Realm cultivator that possessed the Dao
foundation to formally step into the palace of immortals.

Chen Xi had already stagnated at the 3rd level of the Congenital Realm for five years, and
it wasn’t because of his natural talent being too inferior, but instead because of that
longevity lock his mother left behind. During these five years, it had silently absorbed the
True Essence within his body, and only when the longevity lock shattered to reveal the jade
pendant within did he seem as if he had broken his shackles. From that day onwards, he
never worried about his cultivation being unable to advance.

However, even then, under the circumstances of lacking the support of spirit stones, spirit
pills, spirit medicine, and other external sources of support, the advancement of his
cultivation was extremely slow. He had never imagined that eating over 10 dishes actually
allowed his cultivation to be like an oil well blowout and break through a level once again.
This naturally caused him to be incomparably pleasantly surprised.

However, following the happiness, he also felt a type a torture. Every time old man Ma
cooked a delicious dish, that pungent enticing smell caused him to be unable to stop even
though he wanted to, and his original intention of having only a tiny bite turned completely
into disregarding his image as he gobbled down the dishes. This caused him to feel more
and more ashamed, and he felt himself to be a bigger and bigger glutton that was unable to
resist temptation.

Old man Ma was startled by Chen Xi’s appearance when eating as well, as he gazed at
those 14 empty jade plates, he simple didn’t dare believe his eyes, and only muttered in an
absent-minded state. “Freak! Could it be that this fellow’s stomach is a bottomless pit? The
disciple I fucking took is too…weird, right?”
Chen Xi felt even more ashamed in his heart when he heard this, and his deadpan face that
was ridiculed for being expressionless even revealed a rare trace of a blush.

He felt it to be extremely strange as well, after completely clearing 14 dishes, not only did
he not feel bloated, but instead he had the urge of wanting to eat a large pile of food.

“You freak, simply behaving exactly like those body refiner coolies[1.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coolie], a complete glutton!” Old man Ma muttered once
more.

However when these words entered Chen Xi’s ears, it instead caused a problem to cross his
mind, it seemed… Since he cultivated the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts, he’d
never felt full. Could this be the reason why?

Chen Xi carefully sensed the changes in his body. He felt as if his flesh, blood, and skin
were filled with boundless vigor. Even his bones seemed to have become 100g lighter, and
his entire body surged with copious amounts of thick strength.

At this moment, he completely understood that these dishes that were rich in spirit qi were
not only useful to qi refiners, but were able to give rise to extremely good nourishment
effects for the body of body refiners!

Old man Ma seemed to be moved by his conscience when he saw Chen Xi muddle-headed
and not speaking, and he didn’t mutter words that caused Chen Xi to be extremely
embarrassed anymore as he directly asked. “Among the 14 cooking methods, how many
have you remembered?”

Speaking of proper business caused Chen Xi’s expression to finally return to normal, then
he pondered and said, “I’ve almost memorized them all.”

“Really?” Old man Ma’s eyes abruptly sprang wide open.

Chen Xi thought for a moment, then seriously nodded.

Yet Old man Ma didn’t believe him and pointed towards the stove. “You go cook. Hmm,
cook the Dry-fried Inksoul Scorpion.”

“Okay!” Chen Xi replied straightforwardly, and his actions were extremely decisive. He
arrived before the stove, then followed according to the memories in his mind to start
cooking step by step.

Cleaning and cutting the Inksoul Scorpion, blending the seasonings, controlling spirit
flames…

Old man Ma gazed at Chen Xi’s methodical cooking method, and his expression that was
originally doubtful slowly became astonished and astounded.  Until he saw Chen Xi using
True Essence to absorb the iron ladle onto his hand, then controlling the iron ladle and iron
wok with precise and balanced strength, his gaze completely transformed into shock.

The steps weren’t different in the slightest!

Old man Ma couldn’t help but secretly say in his heart, when I fucking started to learn the
culinary arts, I failed over ten times before barely attaining the level that this fellow has
attained now. Could it be that I’ve really fucking taken a genius disciple with shocking
comprehension in the culinary Dao?

His heart suddenly became excited when he thought up to here. Perhaps, the target I
wasn’t able to attain can be realized by this fellow…

After the time for an incense stick to burn, a plate of Dry-fried Inksoul Scorpion with the
mouth-watering texture of crispy meat came out of the wok.

Old man Ma rushed forward impatiently, then picked up a mellow Inksoul Scorpion and
stuffed it into his mouth. He fell into a trance after slowly chewing for a moment, this taste
and degree of purity of spirit energy… It was equal to what he’d cooked!

Chen Xi couldn’t help but be slightly perturbed, when he was cooking earlier, there were
many occasions that he was nearly unable to control the rhythm of the spirit flame. Luckily,
his disposition was steady and firm, and he was neither flurried nor disturbed. This allowed
him to pull through without mishap and persist till the end.

“I intend to change the method of teaching you culinary arts.” After a short while, old man
Ma seemed to have given it careful consideration and he slowly said, “Sheer imitation
poses no difficulty to you. Since that’s the case, start cooking dishes of your own.”

Chen Xi was startled. “What should I do?”

“It’s extremely simple. Take the most basic 1,308 ingredients and cook dishes of your own
according to their attributes.”

Old man Ma said indifferently, “So long as you’re able to allow it to possess both fragrance
and taste, and at the same time allow the spirit energy of the dish to attain the optimum
degree, you’ll be considered as a true 1 leaf spirit chef!”

Chen Xi felt it to be slightly inappropriate.  He’d only just become a spirit chef apprentice
and had only memorized two books: An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food
Ingredients and Collection of Spirit Flames. As for culinary arts, he’d merely memorized
the steps of cooking 14 types of dishes from imitating another and didn’t have a shred of
foundation.

Under these circumstances, why would old man Ma put forward such a demand?
Chen Xi was extremely uncertain.

“Just like the understanding and comprehension of the Dao of the Heavens is different for
each cultivator, the culinary arts of each spirit chef is different.”

Old man Ma said indifferently, “Your natural talent in the culinary Dao is extremely
shocking, instead of following my path, why don’t you search for a path of culinary Dao of
your own!?”

Old man Ma’s eyes once again emitted a light of fanaticism and longing when he spoke up
to this point, then he suddenly turned around to stare fixedly at Chen Xi’s eyes and said in a
low voice. “However, I’ll test you every now and then, and if you’re unable to pass, then
don’t dream of obtaining your salary from Clear Stream Restaurant.”

Chen Xi was dumbstruck, he suddenly had a feeling of being abandoned, and attached to it
was bloody exploitation.

Within the Quiet Room.

Could it be that the Dry-fried Inksoul Scorpion I cooked tastes extremely bad? Is old man
Ma taking revenge on me?

Chen Xi looked at the various ingredients that were piled into mountains that surrounded
him, then looked at the brand-new stove and cooking utensils that were shiny. His gaze was
perplexed while his mind was filled with a myriad of thoughts.

Only he was here, as according to the intentions of old man Ma, unless he’s able to cook
dishes of his own and attain the level of a 1 leaf spirit chef, otherwise, don’t think of
walking out of the Quiet Room.

This old goat has such an eccentric temper, and he even acts so strangely! He’s simply a
crazy bastard!

Even with his tolerance, Chen Xi couldn’t help but feel a burst of annoyance when he
recalled what old man Ma said. I only want to earn some spirit stones to help pay for my
younger brother’s tuition, I have never thought of traversing the path of the culinary Dao
at all!

After feeling annoyed, Chen Xi quickly calmed down, then he looked at everything in his
surroundings. He knew that continuing to grumble would be of no use, instead it would be
better to think of how to use these ingredients to cook a dish that satisfied old man Ma, then
he could leave this damnable Quiet Room.
He walked up to the mountainous pile of ingredients and carefully examined them one by
one.

If I want to become a 1 leaf spirit chef, then I must cook a dish that’s suitable to nourish a
Postnatal Realm cultivator. Not only are these ingredients of various kinds, even their
tastes differ from one another. It’s particularly important to distinguish between their
attributes to complement each other, and I must absolutely not allow them to contradict…

When Chen Xi became serious, he undoubtedly possessed extremely shocking explosive

power. His thoughts revolved in a frenzy as he combined the knowledge he’d learned from
the An Ultimate, Illustrated Guide to Food Ingredients and started to reorganize the
mountainous pile of various ingredients.

After the time for an incense stick to burn.

All the ingredients were organized into two large piles, respectively representing the
attributes of Yin and Yang. Every large pile was further divided into five small portions
that represented the five elemental attributed of metal, wood, water, earth, and fire. Every
ingredient of similar elemental attributes were further divided into several parts that were
even smaller by their taste, growth environment, main material, supplementary material,
etc.

This process consumed nearly a day of his time, and for the sake of insuring there were no
errors, he didn’t even hesitate to taste demon beast blood that assailed his nose with a
bloody smell and ingredients in fluid form that had extremely disgusting colors.  His tongue
was nearly tortured to numbness from being stimulated by these various strange
ingredients, and there were even many times that he nearly vomited from disgust.

However, when he saw the various ingredients appear before him in order, Chen Xi felt a
trace of gratification, and he didn’t care to wipe the sweat off his forehead before starting to
compute a method of creating a new dish.

Time trickled by. Chen Xi stood up after a long time, then he picked over ten ingredients
before directly arriving at the stove.

Sizzle!

After preparing the ingredients and seasonings, Chen Xi didn’t hesitate in the slightest as he
started cooking, however it wasn’t even 15 minutes when a burnt smell was emitted from
the bottom of the wok.

He’d long since been prepared to fail, so he wasn’t surprised when he saw this. He placed
the dish onto the jade plate then ate it bite by bite.

The hot taste is too strong. The spirit energy of the Woad Flower and Wine Fragrance Fish
are unbalanced, seems that I ought to use a warm flame to slowly roast them…
The taste was extremely strange, but Chen Xi seemed to not notice in the slightest as he
chewed with an absent-minded expression, his mind was fully involved in analyzing the
reason for failure.

After finishing and clearing up, Chen Xi started cooking once again.

Five elements were uneven, FAILURE!

Mistake in seasoning, FAILURE!

Ingredients prepared improperly, FAILURE!

Overly excessive cooking technique, True Essence dissipating, FAILURE!

After successively failing over ten times, Chen Xi had already become completely
senseless, as he gulped down his failed dishes bite by bite, then calmly analysed the reason
for each failure before starting anew. That sedate and stiff face was expressionless, and he
was like a machine that knew no exhaustion as he monotonously repeated the same actions.

Chen Xi completely didn’t notice that not only did his spirit energy not get depleted, but
instead was like a pool of water beneath a rainstorm, growing at a noticeable speed.
Chapter 20 - The Wimp 

The sky had only just brightened when Imp yawned before waking up with a drowsy look.

He used to be a hooligan on the streets. Though he was young, he was extremely

intelligent. Boss Zhang of the Zhang general goods store took a fancy to him one month
ago, and he was fortunate to become a talisman crafting apprentice that received a salary.

However, for the past month, he instead helped Zhang Dayong do something else: he
served as a sales assistant.   

The store’s door swung open, revealing a dense crowd that had long since gathered outside
the door, to the point that even a drop of water couldn’t leak out.

“It’s open! Brother Imp, I want to order three Driller talismans, I want those new-version
talismans!”

“Wimp, I’m your neighbour, Uncle Li. Do you still have any more of those basic
Azurewood talismans that have a might comparable to a second-grade talisman?”

“Everyone, don’t vie for it with me. I’ve already lined up for three days just to buy a
Goldedge talisman for that brat of mine at home to defend himself. I’ll get furious with
anyone who vies against me!”

“I’m the instructor of Pine Mist City’s Heavenly Maple Talisman Crafting Institution. I’ve
come here this time to meet the Grandmaster that developed the new version of these basic
talismans. I wonder if Brother Imp can introduce us?”

Everyone clamored as they fought their way to crowd towards the door without a care for
their image, as if they were fighting for goods in the market.

Imp had become used to this, as since the new version Earthshield Talisman that Chen Xi
crafted circulated half a month ago, the reputation of the Zhang General Store boomed
overnight.

Boss Zhang Dayong seized this opportunity to put out an announcement that shocked one’s
eyeballs out of their sockets — 

Grandmaster Level Talisman Crafting Master’s Personal Works,

Our Store’s Grand Contribution This Year,

The Shocking Appearance of New Version Basic Talismans Made with Exquisite Skill.
You! Deserve to Own One!

The announcement was extremely shocking and did indeed attract much attention, but they
were basic talismans after all, and most people were still slightly doubtful of the
genuineness of the news.

But when Zhang Dayong revealed by accident that the Little Princess of the General’s
Estate had already purchased 15 new version Earthshield talismans, the door of the Zhang
General Store was instantly crowded explosively.

Who within Pine Mist City didn’t know that the Little Princess of the General’s Estate was
a little talisman addict? How could something that could arouse her fancy be mistaken?

Zhang Dayong was bursting with joy, he who had planned this beforehand had already
predicted this situation when he saw Chen Xi continuously crafting various basic talismans
that had entirely different structures. However, there were only a few types of new version
talismans that Chen Xi had crafted and their quantity was extremely limited. For the sake of
fully utilizing these precious resources, he resolutely decided to only sell 10 of these new-
version talismans daily.

Things are valued by rarity, the rarer it is, the more valuable it is!

Zhang Dayong, who’d been doing business for 30 years, naturally knew of this principle,
and for the sake of not receiving demands by acquaintances and influential people, he even
went to the extent of hiding early on and entrusting Imp to handle everything.

“Everyone, look at the plate number in your hands, numbers that I call upon may enter the
store, numbers that I don’t can return tomorrow.” Imp roared out loudly. “Number 155,
number 156…”

After successively calling out 10 numbers, those that were called upon had joyous and
complacent expressions, while those that weren’t called upon started clamoring in
indignation. Some begged, some tried to exploit their connections, some used threats…
Living examples showed up of all behaviours and expressions present in the world.

Imp stiffened his face and remained indifferent with an obstinate expression. In his heart
however, he still couldn’t help from feeling dense envy.

Imp used to be like the other apprentices, ridiculing Chen Xi as a jinx that had misfortune
looming above his head. When had he ever imagined that there would be a day that this jinx
would actually be able to cause such a stir?

If it wasn’t for Boss Zhang repeatedly making it clear to him that he wasn’t allowed to
reveal Chen Xi’s identity, he even thought that solely based on Chen Xi’s ability to craft
new version basic talismans, it would be able to cause the entire Pine Mist City to change
their impression of Chen Xi!
Could it be that this fellow is really going to wash away all his misfortune and leap up to
become a famous great figure?

Imp secretly decided that he must respect Chen Xi in the future, as if by any chance Chen
Xi really rose meteorically; if Chen Xi conveniently gave him some help, wouldn’t he
make a killing? However, Chen Xi hadn’t come to the store for over ten days, and if Chen
Xi still didn’t turn up, then these new-version basic talismans were going to be out of
stock…

Pine Mist City’s Commoners District, before Chen Xi’s home.

Luo Chong gazed at the young girl in a simple dress that sat on the stone steps while staring
blankly and couldn’t help but sigh in his heart. Was there any need for the Little Princess of
the General’s Estate to go so far as to wait before that jinx, Chen Xi’s, house for ten days
just for the sake of some talismans? No wonder she’s called the Little Talisman Addict.

Luo Chong was the number one expert under the command of Pine Mist City’s General’s
Estate. He had an unfathomable cultivation, his figure was gaunt with a pair of thin arms
and a pair of clear and bright eyes.

Yet he was concealed in the shadows now, like a vigilant cheetah, observing the
surrounding conditions at every moment.

Qin Hongmian was crazy about the Dao of talismans, but didn’t know the ways of the
world. She was naïve like an ignorant child, to the point that she came all alone to the
Commoners District where crooks were mixed with commoners. It was difficult to ensure
that no accidents would happen, so Luo Chong’s assignment was to guard from the
shadows and guarantee Qin Hongmian’s safety. 

I wonder where that jinx went, actually making me and Miss suffer bitterly for over ten
days. Truly an unpleasant bastard!

Luo Chong criticised endlessly.

Li Clan, Martial Practice Hall.

Manager Wu had a respectful expression as he said in a deep voice, “According to reliable

sources, it’s very likely for the target to leave Clear Stream Restaurant. Li Han, Li Feng, Li
Zhan, you three brothers are adept at the art of stealth and assassination. Tonight, the three
of you will be the main forces. Be sure to not leave any traces.

“Yes!” Three young men with deep and vicious expressions agreed in unison.
“Good! This battle is related to the honor of our Li Clan. I will personally head over as
well, and once you’ve succeeded I’ll suggest to the Patriarch that he allow you three
brothers to cultivate in the Ancestral House.” Manager Wu couldn’t help but nod in
satisfaction. The cultivations of the three brothers before him were at the 8th level of the
Congenital Realm. When they joined forces, they were fully capable of defeating a
cultivator who had achieved perfection in the Congenital Realm. Using them to deal with a
3rd level Congenital Realm kid was simply extremely easy!

Cultivate in the Ancestral House?

The three brothers were all shocked and inexplicable excitement appeared on their faces in
unison.

Manager Wu couldn’t help but laugh in joy when he saw this, exactly one month later, it
was truly like a god sent opportunity. He seemed as if he’d already seen his prey struggling
hysterically before his eyes, in a futile effort…

Clear Stream Restaurant.

The Quiet Room that was shut tightly for half a month was opened from outside. When old
man Ma, Qiao Nan, and Pei Pei saw the scene within clearly, they gasped in unison and
their expressions instantly froze.

The materials that were piled into a hill had disappeared, and only Chen Xi sat all alone
with his eyes closed in mediation within the empty room, seeming extremely conspicuous.

“Could it be that this fellow ate up all the ingredients?” Qiao Nan seemed as if he’d seen a
ghost, and he cried out, “Those ingredients are able to feed ordinary cultivators for 10
years!”

“Not only is Little Brother Chen Xi handsome, but even his appetite is so domineering and
fierce. Oh! Only such a man is worthy of me to willingly sink into the river of love.” The
charming and enchanting Pei Pei once again showed her boy crazy side.

Old man Ma had experienced Chen Xi’s gluttonous ability that far surpassed an ordinary
person earlier, but now when he saw this scene, he couldn’t help from feeling a chill run
down his spine, then he muttered. “I’ve fucking taken a disciple that can be called a rare
glutton, I wonder if it’s a blessing or misfortune, he… he… How can he eat so much?”

Pei Pei walked over to the stove and noticed the jade plates of assorted dishes that were
spread out in a row, and she hurriedly beckoned as she called out. “Senior Brother!
Quickly! Come take a look! These seem to be the dishes that Little Brother Chen Xi
cooked.”

Old man Ma and Qiao Nan arrived before the stove, their expressions turning serious and
solemn as they gazed at the row of dishes with various colors that were pleasant to the eye.
“This Deep-fried Black Eel isn’t bad, the combination of texture is first-rate, and the spirit
energy is pure and thick. Pass.”

“Mmm, this Jadeflame Stewed Crisp Meat’s texture isn’t bad, and every aspect has attained
a first-rate standard. Most shocking of all is that he actually thought of using the pure Yin
attribute Streamlet Herb to wrap up the White Willow Beef Shank to offset the earthen taste
of the Wood Cicada. Such an idea is truly ingenious, simply causing one to be lost in
astonishment.”

“Lilac, Red Cassia Fruit, Wild Hemp Seed… The porridge made from these 110 type of
spirit fruits is really tasty. It is sweet and refreshing, and also reveals a soft and sticky
feeling that’s difficult to explain. Oh! I wonder how Little Brother Chen Xi thought of it, it
seems to even contain a nourishing and beautifying function.”

The three 3 leaf spirit chefs tasted down the line in turn and they repeatedly praised as the
pleasant surprise in their eyes grew thicker.

“Senior Brother, you’ve proven yourself to be able to see what others cannot. With Chen Xi
as your disciple, why worry about having no one to inherit your mantle?” Qiao Nan said
emotionally. “Seeing Chen Xi makes me recall myself from all those years ago. I was
similarly so gloriously talented, similarly so…”

Old man Ma directly ignored this narcissistic fellow, and said arrogantly, “Now, this
disciple of mine has stepped into the level of a 1 leaf spirit chef. In the next step, I’ll adopt
even more severe training methods and make him…”

“Wait a moment. Give me my salary for these few days, I want to make a trip home.” At an
unknown time, Chen Xi had already stood up and he directly interrupted old man Ma with
an impolite tone.

It was impossible for him to be polite as old man Ma didn’t say a word before throwing
him in the Quiet Room, and it was even for over 10 days. Even if it was anyone else, their
mood wouldn’t be any better.

This kid’s grown a temper huh? Is there any disciple that speaks to their master like this?

Old man Ma glared and was just about to flare up when he instead noticed something and
exclaimed. “Your cultivation…”

As soon as he finished speaking, Qiao Nan and Pei Pei noticed the changes in Chen Xi.

Chen Xi’s figure was tall and gaunt before, and had a sedate and stiff temperament at a
young age, like a sharp sword that was sealed in dust within its sheath that was restrained
and hidden.
However at this moment, there was instead a trace of a unique sharp imposing manner on
him, and with every move he made, he seemed similar to before, yet he gave others a
faintly discernible pressure.

“I’ve advanced.” Chen Xi replied. During these few days, besides circulating his cultivation
technique in meditation, his remaining time was all spend on cooking dishes. He never
expected that his cultivation would surge successively to unknowingly break through to the
8th level of the Congenital Realm! 

“So that’s how it is.” Old man Ma gazed at the empty room and instantly understood
everything. Although those ingredients that were piled into a hill were only some materials
that were barely graded, but all of them contained threads of pure spirit energy. Chen Xi
was already at the Congenital Realm, and now that he swallowed so many ingredients in a
short amount of time, advancing in cultivation was justifiable.

Old man Ma didn’t know that Chen Xi didn’t only break through to the 8th level of the
Congenital Realm in qi refining, even his Universe Starslayer Body Forging Technique had
been cultivated to the third level, attaining the step of kneading the tendons with water. He
was already able to draw upon the baleful qi of the Flexible Waterstar to knead the tendons!

Chen Xi’s skin was currently like copper, his tendons and bones like iron, and his body had
been tempered to become flexible and tough. It was precisely because of this that his
temperament silently underwent a trace of change. He was full of spirit and no longer had
the frail appearance from before.

Old man Ma seemed to have realized something when he saw Chen Xi’s calm and firm
expression: purely forcing Chen Xi to put his heart into studying culinary arts wasn’t
realistic. So, he decided to give Chen Xi a few days of leave and raised his hand to throw a
Hundred Treasure Bag at Chen Xi. “The salary for these 15 days is within it. Since you
want to return home, then Master won’t stop you. But you still have to hurry back here,
don’t waste your natural talent in the culinary Dao.”

The irritation that has accumulated during these past few days dispersed substantially when
he obtained the spirit stones and it even came with a Hundred Treasure Bag. He nodded
before turning and leaving in a hurry.

After walking out of Clear Stream Restaurant and looking at the sun and blue sky that he
hadn’t seen for so long, Chen Xi slightly felt as if he was cut off from the outside world for
ages, and leaving the Quiet Room felt… Truly great!

Chen Xi didn’t sigh with emotion any more and walked towards his home in a rush.
However, he’d only walked halfway when he suddenly felt a trace of a terrifying feeling
surge into his heart, as if being targeted by a venomous snake from the shadows.

He didn’t hesitate in the slightest as he suddenly stopped his footsteps before turning his
head to gaze into the distance.
At this moment, Chen Xi was on guard as if being confronted by a formidable enemy and
the True Essence in his entire body burst forth. He was like a spear that pierced the sky,
with an imposing manner that was matchlessly swift and fierce!
Chapter 21 - Bizarre Battle

Night descended.

Luo Chong’s patience was slowly ground off bit by bit and the rage in his heart towards
Chen Xi grew as he gazed at the Little Princess who sat before Chen Xi’s home.

This unpleasant bastard, why hasn’t he returned yet?

Luo Chong lost his patience to wait when he saw the sky getting darker and darker, yet
there was still no sign of Chen Xi. He decided to take the Little Princess and leave first.

However, right at this moment, a strand of extremely concealed murderous air silently
came from afar.

“Hmm?” Luo Chong suddenly raised his head to look at the three figures that used the
night sky to shroud themselves as they silently snuck over from afar and dense killing
intent instantly surged in his heart.

Within Pine Mist City, the General’s Estate formally decreed the prohibition of violence. If
there were violators, then without exception their cultivation would be crippled before
being expelled from the city. As the number one expert under the command of the
General’s Estate, during these years, Luo Chong had always led the guards of the General’s
Estate to patrol day and night within the city, protecting the peace of this territory.

And yet at this moment, there were three assassins that had silently appeared within the
Commoners District. This was obviously challenging the honor and authority of the
General’s Estate!

What made Luo Chong the most furious was that the direction these three assassins snuck
towards was shockingly where he was, and the Little Princess Qin Hongmian was nearby.
If their target was the Little Princess, then… The life of the Little Princess would be
exposed to a great threat, and its consequences were absolutely unimaginable!

“Not only challenging the honor of my General’s Estate, but you still want to harm the
Little Princess. If I don’t kill all of you, what face would I, Luo Chong, have to face the
General?” Luo Chong took a deep breath, and the killing intent within his chest had boiled
to the limit.

Yet his eyes were extremely calm as he concealed himself in the shadows at the corner, his
figure had perfectly blended with the darkness, causing one to be unable to notice a shred
of his presence. Within his hand, a long and narrow saber that was pitch-black like ink had
suddenly appeared.

…
The Dao of stealth and assassination is truly the king of the night!

Manager Wu stood in the distance, gazing upon Li Han, Li Feng, and Li Zhan’s figures that
snuck in the darkness. When he was unable to locate them any longer, he couldn’t help but
exclaim with heartfelt admiration.

Mmm, once this mission is complete later, I must properly foster them for a time. They
might be of use to me in the future. Manager Wu briefly considered before shooting his
gaze at the extremely faraway old and shabby house.

Manage Wu had been endlessly depressed and at a loss for allowing Chen Xi to save Chen
Hao and that woman from within his grasp. Until this moment when he thought of how
Chen Xi’s cultivation would soon be crippled soundlessly, all the dissatisfaction in his heart
instantly vanished and he became excited.

A jinx that was already infamous within Pine Mist City also had his cultivation crippled
and became a piece of trash. What a beautiful scene this would be!

The more he thought about it, the more excited he became, and a trace of complacency and
viciousness appeared on Manager Wu’s emaciated face.

Om!

Extremely far away, a low and ear piercing sound that was like tearing silk resounded out,
and accompanying the sound was a beautiful black light like a waterfall as it suddenly tore
through the sky.

What’s going on?

Manager Wu was startled, then he leapt up a house to look over.

In the next moment, the complacent expression on his face froze.

A tall figure stood in mid-air, wearing violet clothes and holding a long and narrow saber in
hand. On the house where the tall figure stood, the three Li Clan brothers stood there
completely covered in black clothing that only revealed their eyes.

“Eradication Blade! Luo Chong!” At practically the moment he laid eyes upon the tall
figure, Manager Wu recognized who it was, and his triangular eyes were instantly filled
with astonishment and terror.

Luo Chong was the only cultivator in Pine Mist City that used a long and narrow saber, and
amongst the names of sabers that people were familiar with, the Eradication Blade in Luo
Chong’s hand would absolutely be ranked at the first.
Most importantly, not only was Luo Chong’s cultivation unfathomable, he was even the
number one expert under the command of General Qin, and he represented the supreme
honor of the General’s Estate!

“Bastard! I fucking asked you all to go cripple Chen Xi’s cultivation, how did this baleful
existence, Luo Chong, get attracted? What the fuck is going on?”

Manager Wu was already completely devoid of the earlier relaxed and complacent
expression. At this moment, his heart was filled with boundless bitterness and terror, and
his emaciated face was extremely gloomy and unsightly.

“This won’t do! I have to go forward and warn them. So long as they don’t attack, there’s
surely room for discussion. Otherwise, offending Luo Chong is equivalent to offending the
General’s Estate. How would my Li Clan continue living in Pine Mist City?” Manager Wu
took a deep breath as he forcefully restrained the terror in his heart. He was just intending
to head over and stop them, but before he could even head over, the confrontational
situation in the distance was completely brought to an end.

“Kill!” A low and deep explosive shout sounded out from afar, and Li Han’s group of three
unsheathed their weapons before dashing out towards Luo Chong who was in mid-air.

At this moment, the last trace of hope in Manager Wu’s heart collapsed with a loud crash,
and his eyes were empty and despondent as he muttered. “I’ve really never fucking noticed
anyone in this world that’s more idiotic than these three brothers. Motherfucker! That’s Luo
Chong! Are your eyes in your anus? Even if you don’t know Luo Chong, would it kill you
to greet him before attacking?”

“Ah!” At the moment that the sad and shrill cries resounded in the night, it also stopped
abruptly.

Manager Wu shivered in his heart as he raised his head, he saw three heads flying up mid-
air as they dripped blood. They flew in a beautiful arc in the sky before heavily mashing
onto the ground, completely shattering into a pool of muddy flesh that had bone fragments
mixed within.

“It’s over… The mission this time has been completely fucked by these three idiots…”
Manager Wu was frightened out of his wits as he muttered, utterly not daring to stop for
even a moment as he turned and fled madly. He appeared as if he wished for nothing more
than for his parents to have given him two more legs at birth.

Luo Chong stood mid-air in the distance, he didn’t even spare a glance at the three corpses
on the ground as he shot his gaze into the distance to follow the figure that was fleeing in
panic. The corners of his mouth couldn’t help but curl into a trace of a ridicule.
Since the instant he noticed Li Han’s group of three, he’d noticed that another person was
concealed in the distance. After slightly sizing up the person, he recognized the person as
the Li Clan’s Manager Wu and he finally made sense of everything.

One month ago, the Li Clan’s Young Master had fought with Chen Hao on the streets and
was reported to the General’s Estate. For the fear of hurting their relationship with Li Clan,
General Qin only ordered the Li Clan to pay a large sum to atone for their crimes.

Luo Chong knew from that moment onwards that the Li Clan would absolutely not be able
to stomach this loss. As expected, today, Manager Wu and three assassins had appeared
nearby Chen Xi’s home, exactly confirming this.

Thinking up to here, Luo Chong felt furious and amused at the same time. He originally
thought that these people were coming for the Little Princess, Qin Hongmian, but
unexpectedly they had come for Chen Xi and he just happened to encounter them. The god
of destiny really does make fools of people.

Luo Chong arrived before Chen Xi’s home, then looked at Qin Hongmian who squatted on
the stairs with her arms around her legs and said in a low voice, “Miss, let’s go. The
General will be worried if you continue staying here.”

“I want to wait for him. I won’t be able to sleep soundly if I can’t figure out the structure of
these talisman markings.” Qin Hongmian shook her head, and her clear and beautiful little
face had a staunch and persistent expression.

Luo Chong didn’t dare go against Qin Hongmian’s feelings and could only give up. In his
heart however, he was even more furious at Chen Xi, because he felt that he would soon
become the protector of Chen Xi’s home…

——

I stayed within the Clear Stream Restaurant during this entire half months’ time, and only
planned to make a trip home today. Who exactly found out of this news beforehand and set
up an ambush in the shadows?

Could it be members of the Li Clan?

As he felt the fierce and sharp aura that hovered around him, Chen Xi’s nerves strained as
he paid attention to the movement in his surroundings, and he swiftly pondered in his mind.

Whoosh!

An eye-piercing sword light shot out and tore through the sky, emitting a sharp howl.

Chen Xi’s strained nerves relaxed quite a bit when he saw this strand of sword light, as an
enemy that was concealed in the shadows was the most terrifying. Now, the enemy had
exposed himself, so he didn’t have to worry about being silently dealt with a sneak attack
anymore.

However, he still didn’t dare be careless, as this strand of sword light was condensed into a
solid form and all the strength on it seemed to have gather on a single point. Even if he’d
already advanced to the 8th level of the Congenital Realm and his body refinement
technique had already attained the step of using the baleful qi of the Flexible Waterstar to
knead the tendons, but the pure sharp aura on the sword light still caused him to feel a trace
of a great threat.

The enemy is extremely formidable, I’m afraid he isn’t much inferior to me!

Chen Xi didn’t dare hesitate as he fiercely stomped his left foot, then his figure rotated like
an axle, turning onto his side with an extremely unsightly movement before flashing
explosively towards the side, barely dodging past this strand of sword light.

Clang!

Along with the sound of a sword entering its sheath, that fierce and sharp sword light
seemed to vanish into thin air as it instantly vanished.

“Instructor Meng Kong, I told you right? I can’t defeat my brother even if it’s a sneak
attack.” Chen Xi’s heart shook as the familiar voice resounded in his ears, then he raised his
head to look and saw Chen Hao has suddenly appeared in the alley to the side.

By Chen Hao’s side, it was shockingly Meng Kong, the 6th star Violet Palace Realm expert
that was reputed as the number one sword cultivator in Pine Mist Institution!

“Brother, you won’t get angry with me right?” Chen Hao had an obedient expression as he
walked over to Chen Xi’s side and explained. “Instructor Meng Kong said that my progress
this month is unusually great and my sword technique has already broken through the
advanced-stage to attain the unity-stage. So, I would surely be able to defeat you. But
unexpectedly…”

Chen Xi patted his younger brother’s shoulder and interrupted with a gentle voice. “You
don’t have to explain, progress is a good thing. But don’t take me as practice again, do you
understand?”

Chen Hao fiercely nodded. “Okay.”

“Your cultivation has advanced?” Meng Kong suddenly spoke, his steadfast expression
revealing a sense of surprise and bewilderment.

Chen Hao’s actions earlier weren’t suggested by him. But, Meng Kong had said with
certainty earlier that with Chen Hao’s current strength, he would completely be able to
defeat Chen Xi.
There was a reason that Meng Kong made such a judgement. It was because Chen Xi still
had a cultivation at the 3rd level of the Congenital Realm one month ago and according to
his judgment, Chen Xi seemed to not be adept in battle.

Whereas Chen Hao was different, the little fellow was undoubtedly a rare sword cultivating
genius. In the month he was at Pine Mist Institution, he not only attained the unity-stage in
his sword technique, but even his cultivation has successively broke through two levels to
arrive at the 3rd level of the Congenital Realm. So, it ought to be more than sufficient to
defeat his older brother.

But unexpectedly, Chen Hao’s sword strike that was originally certain to be successful was
instead easily dodged by Chen Xi, and this naturally aroused Meng Kong’s curiosity and
wonder.

“My cultivation has indeed advanced to the 8th level of the Congenital Realm.” Chen Xi
replied. Instructor Meng Kong was Chen Hao’s master in sword cultivation and had a
special relationship with Bai Wanqing. There was completely no need to hide the
advancement of his cultivation to Meng Kong.

“8th level of the Congenital Realm? Brother! You’re too formidable!” Chen Hao gaped,
and his small face was filled with adoration.

“Successively breaking through five levels within a month?” Meng Kong was unable to
maintain his composure as well, and he stared at Chen Xi with a strange gaze, as if he was
staring at a freak.
Chapter 22 - Wandering Cloud Sword Sect

This pair of brothers are really dragons amongst men, the young brother revealed
unparalleled talent in the Dao of the sword, and the older brother advanced by leaps and
bounds in his cultivation. If the Chen Clan wasn’t annihilated, then it would absolutely be
able to forge supreme brilliance in the hands of these two brothers!

Meng Kong ceaselessly praised in his heart.

If the numerous disciples of Pine Mist Institution knew that Meng Kong who possessed the
reputation of Grim-face Instructor was able to praise others as well, their jaws would
absolutely drop from shock.

“Right, doesn’t the Pine Mist Institution prohibit disciples from going out?” Chen Xi asked,
as seeing Meng Kong beside Chen Hao, he vaguely felt that something should have
happened.

Chen Hao nodded. “Brother, Uncle Meng Kong wants to take me to leave Pine Mist
Institution and head towards Dragon Lake City to enter the Wandering Cloud Sword Sect to
train. I came out this time precisely to listen to your opinion.”

Wandering Cloud Sword Sect?

Chen Xi’s heart fiercely shook and he shot his gaze at Meng Kong.

If sects were divided into various grades and ranks, then the Wandering Cloud Sword Sect
that was situated within Dragon Lake City that was at the heart of the southern territory
would absolutely be a first-rate sect. Supposedly there were quite a few Earthly Immortal
Realm experts that lived in seclusion within the Wandering Cloud Sword Sect. Also, the
abundance of the Wandering Cloud Sword Sect’s hidden resources and reserves was
something that very few powers in the entire southern territory could compare to.

“Chen Hao’s comprehension in the Dao of the sword is superb, and what’s even harder to
come by is his Sword Heart which is solid. Thus, he’s extremely suitable for the path of a
sword cultivator. I feel we should allow him to go to the Wandering Cloud Sword Sect to
receive the most legitimate training in swordsmanship, and not learn in a small place like
Pine Mist City. Otherwise, it would delay his future.”

Meng Kong said in a deep voice, “Besides that, you don’t have to worry about his safety on
the way. I’ll send him all the way to Wandering Cloud Sword Sect.”

Chen Xi was only worried about this, because a month ago, his grandfather precisely lost
his life in the hands of their enemies while sending his younger brother to Dragon Lake
City to participate in the Thousand Sword Sect’s test.
Now when he heard that Meng Kong would accompany Chen Hao, Chen Xi completely let
go of his worries, then he looked at Chen Hao’s eyes as he said earnestly, “You’ve grown
up already, Big Brother respects your choice. The Wandering Cloud Sword Sect is stronger
than the Thousand Sword Sect. If you’ve really decided to go, then you must make sure to
take good care of yourself.”

“Okay!” Chen Hao had a staunch expression as he said, “Brother, don’t worry. Once I
finish learning and return, we’ll surely kill all the enemies of our Chen Clan!”

Hatred has been planted into his marrow?

A trace of worry couldn’t help but arise within Meng Kong’s heart, as the more one had a
staunch mentality, the more obstinate and stubborn one was. If Chen Hao’s Sword Heart
was blinded by hatred, then there was an extremely high likelihood that he might
experience qi deviation one day in the future.

Chen Xi frowned and berated. “Don’t mention the matter of taking revenge again in the
future! If I find out that you went looking for our enemies alone, then don’t call me brother
anymore!”

“Oh.” Chen Hao sulkily lowered his head when he saw Chen Xi getting angry, but the
obstinate expression in his eyes didn’t change in the slightest.

“How about this, once you attain the Golden Core Realm, you can do whatever you want,
and I won’t interfere.” How could Chen Xi not understand Chen Hao’s thoughts? He knew
he couldn’t use force but had to gradually persuade Chen Hao, so he instantly put forward a
suggestion of compromise.

“This suggestion is good!” Chen Hao raised his head in excitement then cried out. “Brother,
just you wait. I’ll quickly attain the Golden Core Realm, and at that time you better not stop
me anymore.”

“It’s a deal.”

“It’s a deal!”

The two brothers stretched out their fists and tightly grasped each other’s hand.

Meng Kong lightly smiled and was just about to say something when he suddenly turned
around to gaze into the distance.

Under the night sky, a silhouette swiftly flashed over like the wind, yet the figure emitted a
trace of a panicked and terrified aura.

“Chen Xi!” The silhouette that was running madly suddenly stopped and exclaimed in
surprise as he gazed at Chen Xi who stood in the distance.
At this moment, Chen Xi and Chen Hao finally recognized the person, it was shockingly
the Li Clan’s Manager Wu.

Manager Wu was in an extremely sorry state; his emaciated face was extremely pale and a
trace of bitterness and terror still remained in his expression. Chen Xi’s group of three
couldn’t help but be slightly curious when they saw this.

Why would this fellow appear in the Commoners District for no reason?

What did he encounter to cause the dignified Manager of the Li Clan to be in such a sorry
state?

Manager Wu’s gaze flashed past Meng Kong and he couldn’t help but be stunned. He
recalled Luo Chong who was before Chen Xi’s home and his face became even more
unsightly. Could it be that all this was a trap this fellow set?

The number one expert under the command of the General’s Estate, Luo Chong, guarding
at his home’s front door, and there’s the strongest expert in Pine Mist Institution, Meng
Kong, supporting from behind. If this isn’t an ambush, then what is?

“Chen Xi, you’re going too far! Having an ambush and support, what an atrocious plan!
Just you wait! My Li Clan will absolutely not let you off!” Manager Wu didn’t dare stop
for a moment after fiercely putting down a threat, he turned tail and fled.

What does he mean?

It wasn’t only Chen Xi, even Chen Hao and Meng Kong were clearly confused.

They didn’t know that in the heart of Manager Wu, he’d long since firmly believed that
everything that happened tonight was a trap that Chen Xi had placed after deliberate
planning for the sake of dealing with him and the three Li Clan brothers in one fell swoop.

“Hmph, it’s only an old dog of the Li Clan’s, there’s no need to pay any attention to him.”
Meng Kong grunted coldly with a voice that contained dense disdain.

“Brother, did that old dog look for trouble with you while I was training at Pine Mist
Institution?” Chen Hao gnashed his teeth,  his face filled with killing intent.

Chen Xi shook his head. “Let’s hurry up and go home. The reason old dog Wu was fleeing
in a flustered state tonight might be near our home.”

Meng Kong sighed with admiration in his heart. They’d only come into contact with
Manager Wu for a short moment and Chen Xi was already able to roughly determine the
reason Manager Wu was fleeing in a sorry state. Such wisdom and thinking could
practically be called close to demonic!
…

“Meng Kong!”

“Luo Chong!”

When they arrived before Chen Xi’s house and saw Qin Hongmian who sat on the stairs
and Luo Chong who stood respectfully by her side, Meng Kong was startled as he
exclaimed in surprise.

Right at the moment Meng Kong had just opened his mouth, a ball of cold light abruptly
shot out of Luo Chong’s eyes and he practically exclaimed in surprise at the same moment.

Obviously, the two of them ought to be quite familiar with each other. As for how their
relationship was, Chen Xi was unable to judge. However, he finally confirmed something,
the fleeing of Manager Wu surely had something to do with this number one expert under
the command of the General’s Estate, Luo Chong.

“Meng Kong, you’re finally willing to step out of Pine Mist Institution? Do you dare fight
me today?” Luo Chong was like a child that had seen its favorite toy, he stared at Meng
Kong with a burning gaze and his tall figure suddenly surged with billowing battle intent!

“I’m busy.” Meng Kong shook his head with an expressionless face. His tone was dull, as if
he wasn’t afraid of Luo Chong attacking him in the slightest.

In fact, Meng Kong had a slight headache when he saw Luo Chong.

In the eyes of others, perhaps Luo Chong is the Grand Commander of the General’s Estate
that could only be revered, but in the eyes of Meng Kong, this fellow was absolutely a
madman that was addicted to battle. So long as one was believed to be an opponent that
could be battled by this fellow, then he would stick to you like how traditional paste
medicine stuck to the body. Unless one fought him straight off, otherwise, one would
absolutely be unable to flee from this fellow’s harassment.

Meng Kong wasn’t afraid to battle Luo Chong, but as a prideful sword cultivator, his sword
was used to kill and not spar, and he was unwilling for his own sword to become a
whetstone for another, so he was absolutely unable to agree to this.

“That won’t do. You have to agree today even if you don’t want to. It was so difficult to
catch you, I can’t let you off so easily.” At this moment, Luo Chong was no different from
a madman, he unsheathed long and narrow, pitch-black Eradication Blade with a clang, and
a terrifying aura shot out to instantly firmly lock onto Meng Kong.

“If you dare attack, I’ll use the name of the Pine Mist Institution to notify the General’s
Estate. As the Grand Commander of the General’s Estate, actually stirring up trouble on the
street. I wonder how General Qin would think of it when he finds out?” Meng Kong’s
expression remained unfazed as he spoke unhurriedly.

“You… Shameless!” Luo Chong was hit in his soft spot and flew into a rage.

“Hmph.”

“You’re too shameless!”

“Hmph.”

“You’re simply shameless to an unreasonable extent!”

“Hmph.”

……

Seeing Luo Chong and Meng Kong who were like bickering children, Chen Xi and Chen
Hao looked at each other and were both speechless.

Is this still that number one expert under the command of the General’s Estate that’s
famous within Pine Mist City?

Is this still that person that’s reputed as the number one sword cultivator in the Pine Mist
Institution?

“You’re Chen Xi?” There was someone more composed than Chen Xi and Chen Hao, even
to the extent of completely ignoring Luo Chong and Meng Kong. She was naturally the
Little Princess of the General’s Estate that was madly addicted to the Dao of talismans, Qin
Hongmian.

“Oh, I am.” Chen Xi recovered from his shock and sized Qin Hongmian up. He couldn’t
help but be slightly curious when he saw that it was a young girl with a neat and beautiful
disposition. It’s already deep into the night, why was she on my house doorstep? And she
even has an expert like Luo Chong protecting here…

Wait!

Could it be that she’s the Little Princess of the General’s Estate that’s greatly doted upon,
Qin Hongmian?

“I’ve finally found you.” Qin Hongmian laughed happily, then she withdrew a pile of
talismans from a small and exquisite Hundred Treasure Bag and said quickly, “These are
all the talismans you crafted that I bought from the market. The structure of the talisman
markings had of style of its own that’s novel and mysterious, and its might has increased by
nearly double. I want to know the principle behind it, I wonder if you can help me
understand?”

Practically everyone in Pine Mist City knew that the Little Princess, Qin Hongmian, of the
General’s Estate was addicted to the Dao of talismans. At this moment, when he heard this
young girl speaking of talismans and the structure of talisman markings the moment she
opened her mouth, Chen Xi was finally able to confirm the identity of the neat and
beautiful young girl before him.

“I’m only a talisman crafting apprentice, it seems I’m unable to help you, right?”

Qin Hongmian’s eyes sprang wide open as she said in disappointment, “But all these
talismans were crafted by you, how are you be unable to help me?”

“I…” Chen Xi really didn’t know how to reply when faced with a young girl who was
addicted to the Dao of talismans and had pure thoughts that weren’t tainted with the ways
of the world. He thought for a moment then extended his hand to take a talisman from Qin
Hongmian’s hands, then slightly sized it up before recognizing that this was one of the
Earthshield talismans he crafted after comprehending the Fuxi Divine Statue.

“I’m indeed unable to explain the reason behind it. It isn’t that I don’t want to tell you, but
it’s that even I haven’t figured out why I can craft such a structure.”

“Really?” Qin Hongmian stared with her clear and innocent eyes with a confused and
puzzled appearance.

Chen Xi nodded, he was indeed not deceiving Qin Hongmian, those new version talismans
were purely a product of the uncomfortable feeling he felt while crafting talismans and he
still hadn’t figured out the specific reason. How would he dare agree to Qin Hongmian’s
request?

“How could it be like this?” Qin Hongmian pursed her small mouth and her eyes became
red as tears dripped down.

Chen Xi was extremely stunned.

“Kid! Do you know that the Young Miss of my General’s Estate had been waiting here for
you for an entire day?”

Luo Chong suddenly rushed over when he saw Qin Hongmian crying and berated  him with
a low voice. “To think that I even helped you kill the three assassins the Li Clan sent, but I
never imagined that you, kid, would be so heartless and ungrateful!”

“Uncle Luo, it isn’t your fault, it’s mine.” Qin Hongmian persuaded in a low voice as she
cried. Her appearance was tender and delicate and caused one to be unable to help from
feeling tender and protective towards her.
Luo Chong was even more furious when he saw this, then he stared at Chen Xi and said in
a deep voice, “If you don’t agree to the Young Miss’s request today, then I’ll fucking tie
you up and bring you into the General’s Estate!”

“You dare!” Chen Hao who hadn’t spoken all this time spoke out first, his small face was
filled with rage as he stared at Luo Chong and shouted. “My brother didn’t offend her, on
what basis are you tying up my brother and bringing him into the General’s Estate?”

Chen Xi stopped his brother and shook his head to stop Chen Hao from speaking any more,
then he shot his gaze onto Qin Hongmian and said in a light voice. “I indeed do not know
how I did it, but I’m instead able to give you a suggestion.”

Qin Hongmian’s eyes lit up as she wiped off her tears.

“I feel that cultivating a visualization technique to make your soul stronger ought to have
extremely great benefits to the Dao of talismans.” Chen Xi pondered for a moment then
slowly spoke.

“Visualization technique?” Chen Xi had only just finished speaking when Luo Chong and
Meng Kong both exclaimed in surprise at the same time, their faces filled with disbelief.
Chapter 23 - Exquisite Pavilion

Chen Xi couldn’t help but feel slightly curious when he saw the stupefaction on Meng
Kong and Luo Chong’s faces. Is there anything wrong with cultivating a visualization
technique?

“Brother, I’ve heard Instructor Meng Kong say that soul visualization techniques are
extremely rare. No more than three powers within Pine Mist City possess a visualization
technique.”

“The reason that visualization techniques are valuable is because they’re unable to be
passed down in the form of jade slips or physical writing and illustrations. Instead, it
requires being personally passed down by the original owner via a type of Secret
Technique, and is only able to be passed down to one person and not be passed on widely.
This is precisely also the reason why it’s so rare.”

Chen Hao noticed Chen Xi’s confusion and explained by his ears in a low voice.
“However, I’ve also heard that those ancient sects with abundant hidden resources and
reserves possesses different Visualization Secret Treasures that are forged by remarkable
figures using their own thoughts. One can comprehend a visualization method through
these Visualization Secret Treasures, like the Inscribed Swordstone of the Wandering
Sword Sect is a mysterious Visualization Secret Treasure.”

Chen Xi came to a suddenly understanding as he recalled the Fuxi Divine Statue within his
mind, and only now did he deeply feel it become valuable.

“I’ll learn a visualization technique as soon as possible. If I’m still unable to comprehend
the mystery of the structure of these talisman markings at that time, then I’ll come look for
you again.” Qin Hongmian clenched her small fists and her clear eyes emitted a light of
burning staunchness as she waved her hand at Chen Xi before turning and leaving.

“Meng Kong, forget it this time. I’ll surely battle you next time!” Luo Chong was unable to
care about asking Chen Xi about the visualization technique when he saw Qin Hongmian
leaving. He fiercely glared at Meng Kong before leaving rather unwillingly.

“The madman finally left.” Meng Kong smiled when he saw the two of them leaving, then
he turned around to look at Chen Xi with a strange gaze. “No wonder you advanced so
quickly. So it turns out that you’ve cultivated a visualization technique.”

“Probably.” Chen Xi casually replied and was unwilling to speak any more about it.

“A visualization technique is extremely marvellous, and extremely rare and valuable. Don’t
talk about this with anyone in the future, otherwise, your life might be in danger.”
Meng Kong smiled. “But don’t worry, although Luo Chong is a madman, he will surely not
reveal your secret.”

Chen Xi nodded, but he secretly thought in his heart, There isn’t a wall on this world that
doesn’t have a crack. I’ll surely not speak of this matter to another in the future. I nearly
planted a seed of misfortune for myself this time…

The next day, Meng Kong brought Chen Hao along to step foot on the path to Dragon Lake
City.

Chen Xi was already feeling sad and reluctant because of his younger brother’s departure,
so when he saw Bai Wanqing bringing Xixi along to leave with Meng Kong, his mood
became even more downcast.

“Brother, don’t worry. I’ll work extremely hard. You have to take good care of yourself as
well. Be sure to not be worried about me…”

“Chen Xi, since the day I brought Chen Hao to see Meng Kong, I’d already promised to
leave Pine Mist City and return to Dragon Lake City with him. You have to take good care
of yourself, and if you go to Dragon Lake City you must come see Aunt Bai.”

“Big Brother Chen Xi, Xixi is leaving. This is the green orange candy that Xixi love the
most, we’ll each eat half. After you’ve eaten it, then you’re Xixi’s best friend. BYE!”

The voices of Chen Hao, Aunt Bai, and Xixi still lingered in his ears as Chen Xi sat in his
room and stared blankly for a long time before slowly opening a beautiful note in his hand.

Chen Xi, death lurks everywhere in the word of cultivation. If you want to walk further,
then you must possess a formidable martial strength that matches your cultivation.
Whereas last night when we talked in detail, I noticed you seemed to have not practiced in
the martial arts for many years. Your cultivation in the Martial Dao is extremely plain and
simple, and this is the great taboo of a cultivator.

Be sure to remember that the cultivation in the Martial Dao is the foundation of combat.
Sword techniques, fist techniques, saber techniques… no matter what martial technique it
is, you must seek a path of combat of your own. Only in this way will you be able to be
called a true expert!

Take good care of yourself, and see you again — Meng Kong.

Hu~

Chen Xi heaved a long sigh after he finished reading the note.

Chen Xi had reaped great benefit from the long conversation last night with Meng Kong,
the sword cultivator that was the strongest in Pine Mist Institution. He understood that even
though his cultivation surged in advancement all the way, the strength that he was able to
exert was just barely satisfactory. Tracing it to its cause, it was still because of that he only
took consideration to his talisman crafting and culinary arts, and had neglected the
cultivation of martial techniques.

Now when he saw the note Meng Kong left especially for him, at the same time that Chen
Xi felt grateful, a heroic spirit couldn’t help but arise in his heart.

In the past, due to having to bring home the bacon and help his younger brother pay his
tuition, his time was all used on crafting talismans and learning culinary arts, and he
completely had no time to cultivate martial techniques. Now, after Chen Hao left, he only
needed to complete the payment for Pine Mist Institution's tuition and he could pull out
some time to properly cultivate martial techniques.

Unfortunately, my Chen Clan was annihilated, and over a thousand martial technique
ancient books were destroyed. Grandfather was merely able to retain a cultivation
technique, the Violet Sky Arts before being injured by our enemies. If I want to cultivate
martial techniques, I’m afraid I need to enter an Institution. Chen Xi silently pondered for
a long time before walking out of his room.

Zhang General Store.

Due to the new-version talismans being sold to exhaustion, the explosive scene of rushing
to purchase the talismans in a frenzy all these days had gradually calmed down.

But, compared to before, the reputation of the Zhang General Store has already resounded
in the entire Pine Mist City, and the daily flow of customers was a few times more than
before. Under these circumstances, Boss Zhang Dayong didn’t have to worry about being
unable to earn spirit stones.

“Uncle Zhang.” Chen Xi pushed open the door and entered.

The eyes of Zhang Dayong who was sleeping behind the counter suddenly sprang open
upon hearing Chen Xi and his face beamed with smiles. Moreover, the ten plus talisman
crafting apprentices that were busy at the side all stopped their actions, and their faces all
emitted a sense of admiration and envy.

Because of the appearance of the new version first-grade talismans, all of the talisman
crafting apprentices benefited from Chen Xi and obtained a great increase in their salary.
How could they still ridicule and mock Chen Xi as before?

So what if he’s a jinx?

So long as he’s able to bring benefits to everyone, even if he’s the reincarnation of the God
of Misfortune, it would still be worth it for everyone to greet him with a smile!

Chen Xi has been staying within the Clear Stream Restaurant’s Quiet Room all this time, so
he didn’t know the explosive degree that his new version talismans were welcomed in the
market, and he also didn’t know that he’d been crowned with the honorary title of
‘Mysterious Grand Talisman Master.’

So, he swept everyone with a slightly curious gaze and compared to the other people
present, his mood was much calmer.

Zhang Dayong had a smile on his face as he invited Chen Xi into an elegant room, then
Zhang Da Yong feigned anger as he said, “Kid! You disappeared for an entire 15 days and
you still have the face to see me?”

Chen Xi slightly blushed with shame. “Uncle, I had some other matters to attend to during
these past few days, and was unable to get away from it for some time, so…”

“Alright, you’ve already grown up, and you have your own matters to attend to. Uncle can
understand.” Zhang Dayong waved his hand as he seemed not to mind as he spoke, then he
smiled as he asked, “How many talismans have you crafted before coming this time?”

Chen Xi shook his head and deliberated before saying, “Uncle Zhang, I’m afraid I won’t be
able to craft talismans in the future, as I want to concentrate on cultivating martial
techniques to increase my strength.”

Zhang Dayong was stunned and only recovered from his shock after a long time, then he
sighed with emotion. “I knew this day would come, but I never thought it would be so fast.”

Chen Xi had a slightly complicated mood as he walked out of Zhang general goods store.

If it wasn’t for Zhang Dayong showing consideration for them during these past few years,
then he, his younger brother, and his grandfather would probably have been reduced to
beggars on the street since a long time ago. Now, for the sake of cultivating martial
techniques, he had no choice but to leave this work, and he couldn’t help but be slightly
ashamed.

“Uncle Zhang, I, Chen Xi, will never forget this kindness!” After standing before the Zhang
general store signboard for a long time, a trace of staunchness flashed within Chen Xi’s
eyes before he resolutely turned and left.

Exquisite Pavilion.
The Exquisite Pavilion was a rather famous place in Pine Mist City that specialized in the
sale of cultivation methods, from the low grade cultivation methods to high grade
cultivation methods, it had everything that one expected to find. It greatly satisfied the
needs of many independent cultivators and there was even no lack of powers like clans and
institutions who had cultivators come here to uncover treasures.

In the aspect of qi refinement, I’m cultivating the Violet Sky Arts that’s passed down in the
clan, and in the aspect of body refinement, I’m cultivating the Universe Starslayer Body
Forging Technique that Senior Ji Yu passed down to me. What type of martial technique
should I cultivate in order to fully exert my strength?” Chen Xi currently stood before the
counter and gazed at the superb collection of various martial technique ancient books, and
wasn’t sure where to start.

“Senior, do you want me to help you select some cultivation methods?” A beautiful female
attendant nearby spoke and suggested.

Chen Xi thought for a moment, then asked, “What body refinement martial techniques do
you have?”

The female attendant was startled and a trace of disdain flashed deep within her eyes. In
Pine Mist City, body refiners were mostly some coolies of lowly status who had no money
nor power and were extremely poor.

At this moment, when she heard Chen Xi wanted to purchase some body refinement
cultivation methods, the female attendant naturally took him for a pauper that struggled in
poverty.

“There’s very few cultivation methods for body refinement, only around ten methods.
Please look over here.” The female attendants attitude become extremely cold and she
didn’t even both to call him ‘Senior’ as she pointed towards a corner of the counter.

“Tiger Subduing Claw, Dragonform Footwork Technique, Great Demon Subduing Palm,
Golden Roc Movement Technique…” Chen Xi swept pass them one by one and couldn’t
help but say in amazement, “The price of every single one is more than 100 spirit stones,
and these are only basic body refinement martial skills. Doesn’t the price seems slightly
unreasonable?”

The female attendant was even more disdainful in her heart as she replied indifferently,
“These are all the valuable martial skills that my Exquisite Pavilion has gathered together,
even if it’s a basic martial skill, it’s much more formidable compared to those common
martial skills on the market. If you feel it’s expensive, then you can go look at other
places.”

As she spoke, the female attendant turned and left, and she muttered, “If you can’t afford it
then say you can’t, still complaining it’s expensive. Hmph! These body refiners are truly
poor to an unreasonable extent.”
Chen Xi shook his head and was lazy to fuss about it with the female attendant. He spent
100 spirit stones and purchased the Grand Collapsing Fist and has only just walked out of
the Exquisite Pavilion’s door when he was called from behind.

“Chen Xi!” The voice was deep and powerful.

Chen Xi turned around to see the tall and mighty Luo Chong walk out of Exquisite
Pavilion.

“These are 13 body refinement jade slips that the Young Miss bought for you. Take it,” said
Luo Chong as he threw a Hundred Treasure Bag to Chen Xi before turning around and once
again entering the Exquisite Pavilion.

What’s going on?

Chen Xi was extremely stunned, then his gaze swept towards the Exquisite Pavilion and he
surprisingly saw Qin Hongmian in a plain dress waving towards him.

Could it be that she saw everything from before?

It has to be like this, otherwise, why would Luo Chong throw some body refinement jade
slips to me for no reason?

But, Chen Xi was unable to accept this gift, as the saying goes, no gains without pains. He
didn’t want to owe this favour to her, so he once again walked into the Exquisite Pavilion,
however after looking around, he noticed that Qin Hongmian had long since vanished.

“Senior, I’m… I’m sorry.” The female attendant walked over, seeming to have taken an
extremely heavy blow, she apologized with a low voice that revealed a trace of dejection
and dense reverence, and didn’t have a trace of her earlier cold and cynical appearance.
Chapter 24 - Guidance

Chen Xi didn’t loiter around after exiting the Exquisite Pavilion and hurried on to the Clear
Stream Restaurant.

Old man Ma couldn’t help but feel slightly gratified when he saw Chen Xi who returned
just a day later. “The little fellow isn’t bad, he knows how to make the best use of his time
and advance his culinary arts…

“I want to do closed door cultivation within the Quiet Room.” Chen Xi put forward his
request.

Although Manager Wu’s assassination operation that targeted him was gotten rid of by Luo
Chong unintentionally, but Chen Xi didn’t feel at ease in the slightest as the feeling of
danger in his heart had increased rather than decreased.

For the sake of protecting himself, he had no choice but to leave his talisman crafting work,
and he planned to stay in the Clear Stream Restaurant from now on to practice his culinary
arts while cultivating martial skills.

Old man Ma felt even happier when he heard this, then he waved his hand. “Alright! I’ll
prepare all the ingredients for you. I’m really anticipating the day you advance to become a
2 leaf spirit chef.”

Chen Xi secretly heaved a sigh of relief and nodded. “I’ll work hard.”

In next to no time, Chen Xi had once again arrived within the Quiet Room, and he
pondered as he gazed at the surrounding ingredients that were piled into hills. With all
these ingredients, not only can I cultivate my culinary arts, I can also replenish my True
Essence and nourish my physique. Coupled with here being quiet and safe, I don’t have to
worry about being disturbed by the outside world; if I take some time out at night,
cultivating martial skills here is extremely good as well…

Chen Xi didn’t delay before starting to distinguish and sort ingredients according to their
differing attributes and taste.

With the experience from last time, Chen Xi seemed to be already able to accomplish this
with ease, and it wasn’t long before he’d already finished dividing the room full of
ingredients.

Afterwards, he came before the stove and started cooking.

Chen Xi had currently already attained the grade of 1 leaf spirit chef in his culinary arts.
Regardless of knife skill, control of the flames, or the combination of ingredient flavor, he
had a deep understanding of them all.
However, if he wanted to advance to become a 2 leaf spirit chef, then he must be able to
cook dishes that were able to greatly benefit Congenital Realm cultivators, and this posed
quite a degree of difficulty to Chen Xi.

He was lucky that he had the support of old man Ma, so Chen Xi didn’t have to worry
about facing a shortage of ingredients in the slightest. He wasn’t afraid even if he failed, as
he was completely capable of trying time after time to find a path of the culinary Dao that
belonged to him.

The kitchen knife fluttered like snow to finish preparing the ingredients, then Chen Xi
controlled the spirit flames as he poured the ingredients into the iron wok and started
cooking carefully.

His wrist was steady and numb,his expression focused. He successively vibrated the iron
wok and iron ladle according to a strange rhythm, and the various ingredients ceaselessly
rolled about within the burning hot wok like spindrifts that fluttered out layer upon layer
and was extremely pleasing to the eye.

Chen Xi clearly noticed that cooking this time seemed much smoother and easier than
before, and all the subtle changes that occurred on the various ingredients within the iron
work were understood and grasped in his heart.

“It ought to be because of me visualizing the Fuxi Divine Statue all the time, this feeling is
simply exactly similar to when I crafted those new version talismans!” Chen Xi exclaimed
ceaselessly, as he now fully understood the point that made visualization techniques
valuable.

Sizzle!

Right in his moment of absent-mindedness, the ingredients within the iron wok was
completely burnt.

Chen Xi hurriedly concentrated his mind and didn’t dare let his imagination run wild
anymore.

Even then, Chen Xi spent an entire afternoon in failure. It couldn’t be helped, under the
circumstances that he didn’t have anyone to guide him, and he could only rely on himself to
learn by trial and error. It was obviously an extremely difficult thing.

The failed dishes were all stuffed into his stomach one by one. It was firstly for the sake of
analysing the reason for failure, and secondly was that even though he failed to cook these
ingredients properly, they still contained a large amount of residual spirit energy that was
able to replenish the used True Essence within his Dantian.

Chen Xi only stopped cooking when night arrived, then sat cross-legged in meditation.
Practicing his culinary arts for the entire afternoon was extremely tiring for his mind. At the
moment, he’d just started meditating when his mind was quickly immersed in a gentle and
peaceful state.

Swoosh!

Surging True Essence was like a rolling great river that ceaselessly flowed within the
meridians in his entire body.

These True Essence were condensed from the spirit energy that was contained within the
ingredients Chen Xi had eaten during the entire afternoon and accumulated within his body.
They were like numerous spirit pills that swiftly transformed into pure True Essence that
surged into his Dantian the moment Chen Xi circulated his cultivation technique.

After two hours, Chen Xi awoke from his meditation, and he couldn’t help but be delighted
in his heart when he noticed that his cultivation had obviously advanced slightly. If he were
to continue cultivating at this impetus, he would probably be completely capable of
advancing to the 9th level of the Congenital Realm within a month!

After arriving at the 9th level of the Congenital Realm, Chen Xi only needed to accumulate
sufficient True Essence before being able to develop a Violet Palace within his Dantian,
and then establish his Dao foundation to become a true cultivator who has stepped onto the
road of immortal cultivation. At that time, not only would Chen Xi be able to fly in the sky,
but he would able to utilize Magic Treasures and his strength would obtain an enormous
qualitative change!

However, if I want to pass the first level of the Heavenpeak of Trials, I must similarly attain
the Violet Palace Realm in my body refinement technique. Right now, I’ve only attained the
third level of the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Technique, and I’m still another two
levels away from cultivating to perfection of the Postnatal Realm. I wonder when I’ll be
able to advance to the Congenital Realm, let alone the Violet Palace Realm…” Chen Xi
silently pondered for a moment and then withdrew a Hundred Treasure Bag from his
pocket.

The Hundred Treasure Bag was entrusted by Qin Hongmian to Luo Chong to gift to him,
and within it were 13 basic body refinement cultivation techniques. The Tiger Subduing
Claw, Dragonform Footwork Technique, Great Demon Subduing Palm, and Golden Roc
Movement Technique that Chen Xi saw in the Exquisite Pavilion were shockingly all
within it. Combined with the Grand Collapsing Fist he’d spent over 100 spirit stones to
purchase earlier, there was a total of 14 body refinement martial skills.

Chen Xi couldn’t help from being extremely elated at obtaining 14 body refinement martial
skills within a day, and he impatiently started to carefully read through them.
The Tiger Subduing Claw was a martial skill that specialized in tempering the fingers, its
moves were swift and vigorous. Its penetrating power was extremely strong, and shattering
stones and wood was as easy as breaking dry branches.

The Dragonform Footwork Technique was divided into the Sleepy Dragon’s Stroll,
Swimming Dragon’s Stride, Violent Dragon’s Stride, Flying Dragon’s Vigorous Stride,
White Dragon’s Bizarre Steps, Leaping Dragon’s Prance, Golden Dragon’s Eight Graceful
Steps. These divisions respectively aimed at forward steps, forward movements, jumping
movements, backwards steps, backwards movements, sideways movements, turning
movements, and winding movements. These eight most basic movements were also called
the Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps, and possessed both offensive and defensive footwork
with incomparably marvellous variations.

The Great Demon Subduing Palm used the hands to form seals. It possessed vigorous and
condensed force, and is even able to condense the force of the vital energy and blood. It
caused the hands to be bright red like blood, and was able to increase the might of the
palms to explode forth with shocking strength.

The Golden Roc Movement Technique was famous for its speed being swift like a bolt of
lightning. It was a widely spread lightness technique. When cultivated to a high level, one
was able to instantly dodge ten thousand arrows that are shot at one without suffering any
injuries.

After reading though a few martial skills in succession, Chen Xi didn’t know how to choose
the more he saw, as it seemed that every martial skill was something he needed, and there
were none that he disliked.

This type of feeling was extremely painful, as if faced with a table full of sumptuous dishes
but not knowing where to start.

“What’re you hesitating about? Let me ask you, what do you want to learn the most?” A
voice that contained experience on the vicissitudes of life resounded out within the room,
and accompanied by the voice, Ji Yu whose hooves were pitch-black like ink and had a
single horn on his head suddenly appeared within the room.

“You’re able to come out?” Chen Xi was extremely shocked.

“Who told you that I’m unable to come out? Anyway, this isn’t important. What’s
important is what exactly do you want to learn?” Ji Yu lazily shook his head, then a black
light flashed and he’d already transformed into a lean faced old man of graceful bearing
and a refined demeanour.

Chen Xi was stunned, then sunk into deep thought.

Ji Yu didn’t disturb him, as the choice of which martial skill to cultivate was related to the
level of one’s combat strength. Some people were adept in using swords, some were adept
in using sabers, and the crux of the matter was to see if this type of martial skill suited one’s
self.

After a long time, Chen Xi suddenly said, “I want to learn the martial skill with the
strongest offensive ability and the swiftest ability to flee.”

Ji Yu was startled, then smiled faintly. “You want to hear my opinion?”

Chen Xi nodded and openly admitted his thoughts. As far as he was concerned, with the
mysterious Ji Yu present, he only needed to mention what he wanted and it would
absolutely be not wrong to listen to Ji Yu for the specifics.

“You’re not bad.” Ji Yu gave a rare praise, then his expression went solemn as he said
seriously, “There’s no differentiation between strong and weak in martial skills. To
Fiendgod body refiners, offense is embodied within their Divine Ability and cultivation
techniques; to qi refiners, if solely in terms of the swiftness and power of offense, then
sword techniques are naturally number one.

“Divine Abilities are techniques unique to Fiendgod body refiners, like the Heavenly
Transformation and Mountain Transforming Fist, they’re all formidable Divine Abilities
that possess the might to burn mountains and bloody the seas. Normally, qi refiners are
unable to learn this, but this isn’t an absolute, as some experts that possess both the
techniques of a body refiner and qi refiner are naturally able to master Divine Abilities.

“Similarly, the techniques and profound arts qi refiners use that utilize True Essence to
master  also have their own terrifying might, and matched with a Magic Treasure or similar
weapons, their strengths are not to be taken lightly either.

“However, there’s one thing that’s used universally, and that’s that regardless of martial
skill or method of cultivation, they’re all unable to do without movement techniques.
Moreover the utilization of a movement technique’s greatest effect is the ability to easily
free yourself from the battlefield and be unlikely to fall into danger.

“Now, you know what martial skill you ought to cultivate, right?”

“Divine Ability, Sword Technique, Movement Technique!” Chen Xi replied without

hesitation. After hearing Ji Yu’s analysis, he was suddenly enlightened on the problem that
he’d been entangled with, as if he was filled with wisdom, causing him to instantly
understand what he wanted.

He was dual cultivating both body refinement and qi refinement, cultivating Divine
Abilities in the aspect of body refinement and mainly cultivating Sword Techniques in the
aspect of qi refinement, whereas Movement Techniques were instead for protecting his life.
Ji Yu nodded and said, “Not bad, but the most important thing for you now is to temper
your body’s force exertion skill, as this is the foundation of all cultivation techniques.”

As he spoke, Ji Yu walked over to before Chen Xi, then bent down to pick out the Grand
Collapsing Fist from the 14 jade slips.

“These cultivation techniques are really shit, only this cultivation technique is
comparatively comprehensive, but it still has quite a few flaws. I’ll help you improve it.” Ji
Yu frowned as he judged, then stretched out his finger to touch the jade slip. After a short
moment, he raised his hand to toss the jade slip to Chen Xi. “Once you’ve cultivated this
fist technique to the point you’re able to freely control everything, then it’s sufficient for
you to control the force exertion skill for every joint in your body.”

Chen Xi received the jade slip but didn’t hurry to read it, instead he pointed towards the
other jade slips on the ground and asked, “What about these cultivation techniques? I don’t
have to learn them?”

“They’re only of little value, it doesn’t matter if you don’t cultivate them.” Ji Yu replied
extremely decisively.

Chen Xi was slightly reluctant, as all these martial skills were gifted to him by Qin
Hongmian, and were all the martial skills he possessed up till now. Throwing them away
just like this was indeed a slight pity.

Most importantly, even though he’d determined the direction of his cultivation, he didn’t
have the proper cultivation technique books. When he thought that he still had to spend
spirit stones to purchase a Divine Ability, a Sword Technique, and a Movement Technique
cultivation technique, he felt a slight headache.

My pocket isn’t bulging, worry will kill me!

Wait!

Isn’t there an old monster that’s lived for a million years by my side, does my head still
have to ache over these problems?

Chen Xi’s eyes shone as he raised his head to look at Ji Yu.

Chapter 25 - Grand Collapsing Fist

Ji Yu paid no attention to Chen Xi’s burning gaze and instead casually waved his hand to
make an emerald green rattan chair appear beside him. Then, he gestured from his waist
and an azure skinned bottle gourd appeared in his hand. A dense wine fragrance floated
upwards to fill the room with a fragrant smell.

He lazy lay onto the rattan chair then put the bottle gourd to his mouth before gulping down
a few mouthfuls of wine and burped, then sighed in satisfaction. “After transforming into
human form, I’m indeed able to enjoy things I had never enjoyed in the past.”

“Senior, you like drinking wine?” Chen Xi asked.

“Wrong. I like drinking good wine.” Ji Yu corrected, then smiled faintly. “Not only do I
like drinking good wine, but I also like eating good food. If you want to bribe me, then do it
on these two aspects. The rate of success is extremely high.”

Chen Xi was extremely ashamed in his heart, yet in his mouth he said, “I just happened to
be training in the culinary arts. Even though my skill is inferior to those great spirit chefs,
but I dare guarantee I will make dishes that would satisfy you. As for good wine, there’s a
wine called Drunken Pine Wine in Pine Mist City, it has a mellow flavor that continuously
suffuses out into the mouth, and it’s presumably able to satisfy you as well.”

Ji Yu wasn’t surprised in the slightest and he nodded. “It’s precisely because I know your
culinary skill is good that I would appear here. It can’t be helped, I had no special addiction
while following Master to fight and conquer the world in my lifetime, and I’m only unable
to escape the desire for good food.”

So that’s how it is!

Chen Xi was finally enlightened, but when he thought of how Ji Yu had appeared for the
sake of drinking good wine and eating good food and not purely to guide him on martial
skills, Chen Xi couldn’t help but be slightly at a loss of whether to laugh or cry.

“Senior Ji Yu, what do you want to eat?”

“Roast meat!”

“Okay!” Chen Xi stood up and walked over to the various ingredients, then started picking
some demon beast meat with a delicious texture.

“The excellence of roast meat is completely contained within the word ‘freshness.’ The
texture of those dead things are not acceptable. I’ll take you to a place.” Ji Yu instantly
stood up from the rattan chair when roast meat was mentioned. His gaze was shining as he
muttered, then he casually waved his hand. Chen Xi’s vision blurred, and in the next
moment, he’d appeared in a dense forest.

Chen Xi looked around at his surroundings and said in surprise and bewilderment, “This is
within the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range?”

Under the deeply dark night, numerous large trees were like solemn warriors of ancient
times, with sturdy trunks, luxuriant foliages, and spreading branches. Dense creeping vines
that were as big as the mouth of a bowl were on the treetops, seeming to be bodies of
pythons that were hanging down by their tails. The faraway mountain range that rose and
fell could be vaguely seen through the gaps in the leaves and branches.

Roar!

A burst of beast roars sounded out from afar, adding an extremely dangerous aura to the
entire forest.

Bang!

Ji Yu appeared out of thin air, then casually swung his hand and an Azure Haired Wild
Boar that was an entire 500kg fell onto the ground, emitting a terrified and miserable howl
of grief.

“Hurry up and roast the meat.” As he spoke, Ji Yu once again lay on the rattan chair, then
he picked up the bottle gourd and drunk down a few mouthfuls of wine. He smacked his
lips in satisfaction and had a free and relaxed expression, as if he’d taken the entire
extremely dangerous forest that demon beasts wreaked havoc in to be his own backyard.

Chen Xi didn’t sigh with emotion anymore and picked up the kitchen knife before starting
to prepare the Azure Haired Wild Boar.

Hiss hiss!

Not long after, a campfire raged, and the oil flowed out from the meat pieces on the
roasting rack to drop into the campfire to emit a hissing sound. After that, an enticing meat
fragrance that made one’s mouth water suffused out.

“Mmm, after so many years, I finally get to taste the flavor of roast meat!” Ji Yu couldn’t
refrain himself any longer as he scurried off the rattan chair to grab a piece of burning hot
roast meat before chewing with large bites, and he still vaguely ceaselessly sighed with
emotion.

Chen Xi felt extremely happy as well when he saw this, as he didn’t care about the
problems of combination of spirit energy when he roasted the Azure Haired Wild Boar this
time. He had purely sought after the deliciousness of taste for the sake of satisfying Ji Yu’s
taste buds.
“Start cultivating your fist technique. Stand in the natural position, and conform your
essence, energy, and spirit to the heaven and earth. This is the most suitable way to
cultivate fist and kicking skills. Hiding within a room to cultivate is unable to attain this
sort of effect.” Ji Yu ate meat and drank wine in great satisfaction, and therefore he didn’t
stint in giving Chen Xi some advice.

What Chen Xi wanted was precisely this. He found an empty space and sat down cross-
legged before carefully learning the Grand Collapsing Fist.

Grand Collapsing Fist, basic martial skill, the fist force moves like a drawn bow and
explodes out like a thunderclap.

‘Moving like a drawn bow’ is the process of accumulating strength. The body is like a
drawn bow that’s fully accumulated with force that’s transmitted to every joint within the
body.

‘Exploding out like a thunderclap’ is the technique when exerting force, it stresses upon the
collapsing force exploding out in an instant and swiftly like thunder. This is also what is
called instant force and explosive force. When exerting force, the power is able to destroy
anything within its path, and using one’s body as the axis, the fist force is condensed and is
able to collapse mountains!

Furthermore, this Grand Collapsing Fist had been improved by Ji Yu, and the force exertion
technique of the fist force was even more superior. The might of the fist force underwent a
qualitative transformation as well and had completely broken away from the domain of
basic martial skills to attain the level of high-grade!

According to Chen Xi’s understanding, cultivation of martial skills were divided into the
basic-stage, advanced-stage, and unity-stage. They respectively corresponded to the low-
grade, the intermediate-grade, and the high-grade.

Taking the Grand Collapsing Fist for example, it was originally a basic martial skill, and if
cultivated to perfection, Chen Xi could merely be said to have mastered the basic-stage in
the Martial Dao. If Chen Xi wanted to attain the advanced-stage, then he had to choose an
intermediate-grade martial skill to cultivate.

However, there was also those people with shocking natural talent that relied on their own
comprehension and a basic martial skill to comprehend an even higher stage in the Martial
Dao, but these examples very extremely scarce. In the current cultivation world, so long as
one’s pocket was full, or perhaps one was within a sect that possesses deep hidden
resources and reserves, one was completely able to obtain martial skills of even high grade
with the slightest effort.

Bang!
Right at the moment Chen Xi intended to cultivate, Ji Yu called him over before a rock,
then he struck his fist onto the rock, and the hard rock instantly transformed into a lump of
small bits of rubble. The size of the rubble was like a longan, and their shapes were exactly
similar. As they scattered onto the ground, they seemed like a pile of beads.

“This is the first stage of the Grand Collapsing Fist, collapsing a rock into beads.”

Ji Yu once again arrived before a rock and struck out with his fist, the rock instantly
transformed into a pile of powder, then lightly blew at it and the powder drifted out
profusely and disorderly before naturally vanishing.

“This is the second stage of the Grand Collapsing Fist, collapsing a rock into powder.”

Ji Yu once again arrived before a rock and struck out with his fist, and with a bang, the rock
transformed into sharp rock needles that covered the sky, then he waved his sleeve and the
myriad of stone needles emitted an ear piercing whistle from tearing through the air, and hit
a nearby large tree, instantly penetrating through to cause countless small needle punctures!

“This is the third stage of the Grand Collapsing Fist, collapsing a rock into needles.”

“Now, your soul is growing stronger with each passing day, it ought to not be difficult to
cultivate this. If you’re able to cultivate the Grand Collapsing Fist to attain the third stage,
the nimbleness and force exertion technique of your body should be sufficient to cultivate
Divine Abilities, Sword Techniques, and Movement Techniques.” After he finished
speaking, Ji Yu once again lay on the rattan chair, eating meat and drinking wine in delight,
and didn’t even glance a Chen Xi again.

Whereas Chen Xi had long since been stimulated by the might of the three successive fist
strikes of Ji Yu to the point he was full of excitement, his entire body filled with fighting
spirit. When he heard Ji Yu, he didn’t hesitate in the slightest as he assumed a stance and
started cultivating from the beginning.

Just like Ji Yu had said, Chen Xi’s soul was strengthening and growing at a terrifying speed
from visualizing the Fuxi Divine Statue all day and night. Under these circumstances, the
changes within every move and every form of the Grand Collapsing Fist were like a
gurgling stream as it flowed into his mind vividly and without error.

It wasn’t long before Chen Xi was immersed within cultivating his fist technique, forgetting
himself and everything around him.

The sound of blood violently flowing within Chen Xi’s body faintly sounded out, like a
great river. But contrary to his blood, his heartbeat grew slower and slower, but was
extremely strong. The thumping sounds seemed like the sound of pounding on drums, and
it shook the flesh, blood, and skin throughout his body.

Swoosh!
Chen Xi didn’t notice that right when he was immersed within the fist technique, an azure
star amongst that myriad of stars in the sky above him poured down numerous chilly
Flexible Waterstar baleful qi that were like stream as it poured into his flesh, blood, and
skin to slowly knead the tendons in his entire body…

Chen Xi suddenly opened his eyes three hours later and his figure leaped out before striking
his fist onto a rock.

Bang!

The rock was hard like steel, only a few cracks split open on its surface, and a large amount
of rubble fell off.

“What a hard rock. But the force of my fist has obviously increased as well. According to
this speed, I ought to be able to attain the first stage, collapsing a rock into beads, within
seven days.”

Chen Xi withdrew his fist, and as he felt the roaring sounds of his blood that seemed to be
boiling throughout his body and the tendons in his body that were flexible and white like
jade, he felt another burst of pleasant surprise. “I never imagined that the Universe
Starslayer Body Forging Technique would actually break through the third level in such a
short amount of time to advance to the fourth level, tempering the muscles with earth!”

The slow advancement of his body refinement cultivation had always been a knot in Chen
Xi’s heart. Because he didn’t have a shred of experience before, he only purely cultivated
the Universe Starslayer Body Forging Technique, but utterly never thought of using other
methods to help his body speed up his advancement. The benefits that cultivating the Grand
Collapsing Fist brought to him at this moment had undoubtedly allowed him to have found
a way to quickly temper his body.

“The principle is extremely simple, this is the beauty of martial skills. It can both
strengthen the cultivation in the Martial Dao, nourish the body in return and use the
circulation of cultivation within the body to draw upon the baleful qi of the universe to
temper the physique.” Ji Yu raised his head and said indifferently.

Rumble!

Chen Xi’s stomach growled in hunger. Cultivating the fist technique earlier had already
completely spent all the excess energy in his body. There was a little less than a half of the
Azure Haired Wild Boar still remaining, and Chen Xi couldn’t care about anything else as
he sat cross-legged and started swallowing with large bites.

“Drink wine!” Ji Yu raised his hand and threw the azure skinned bottle gourd to Chen Xi.

Chen Xi didn’t treat Ji Yu as a stranger in the slightest as he held the azure skinned bottle
gourd and fiercely drank a few mouthfuls. The pungent wine transformed into a mellow
and refreshing hot stream the instant it entered his throat, then surged into every corner of
his body.

Bang!

It was as if a stone had exploded within his body, and vast pure energy roared out as it
collided within his entire body, like numerous steel brushes that washed his blood, flesh,
skin, and internal organs over and over again.

Chen Xi’s face instantly flushed red, and intense pain struck his entire body, causing his
features to become distorted and terrifying.

“I forgot that the energy within this wine is too terrifying, and isn’t suitable for him to
drink.” Ji Yu was slightly startled, then he slapped his forehead before shouting out
explosively. “Circulate your cultivation technique, keep your mind clear and maintain
consciousness!”

Chen Xi didn’t dare hesitate, and he gritted his teeth as he circulated his cultivation.

Bang! Bang!

It felt like there were countless raging bulls colliding within his blood, flesh, and skin. This
vast energy that the strong wine transformed into was extremely violent and hard to tame,
moreover it was scorching hot and difficult to endure. Chen Xi completely relied on his
supreme will to completely absorb all this energy many hours later.

At this moment, it was just before the crack of dawn.

When Chen Xi stood up, the first ray of dawn passed through the dense leaves and branches
to pour down.

He had a firm face that was very thin and a tall figure, and a layer of gentle lustre like jade
arose on the pieces of clearly angular muscles underneath his clothes.

Under the shower of morning light, Chen Xi seemed to have been reborn, and didn’t
possess his frail appearance from before anymore.

“Congenital Realm in body refinement?” Chen Xi felt the changes in his body and his heart
fiercely shook.
Chapter 26 - Redleaf Institution

One month later.

Deep in the night within the forest of the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range.

Chen Xi had a concentrated expression, and a white light suffused on his fist as he struck a
rock.

Bang!

The hard rock that was the size of a millstone burst open and sprayed out before dropping
all over the ground. It could be clearly seen that the rubble were each similarly the size of a
longan and were all like beads.

At this moment, Chen Xi had shockingly already attained the first level of the Grand
Collapsing Fist — collapsing a rock into beads!

“So it turns out that collapsing force exploding out in an instant is exerted through instantly
condensing the hidden force that’s accumulated from twisting, winding, and kneading the
muscles. The body is like a fully drawn bow and the fist is like an arrow that’s pulled
extremely tightly, and at the moment that force is exerted, it’s precisely what is called
‘collapse’!” Chen Xi muttered to himself, then once again assumed the stance and
cultivated every move and form.

During this half a month’s time, his life was monotonous yet substantial. During the day, he
explored his culinary arts in the Quiet Room; at night, he followed Ji Yu to this forest to
cultivate the Grand Collapsing Fist, while paying attention to meditation, tempering the
body, and visualizing the Fuxi Divine Statue. Every single moment of time was fully
utilized by him.

Under such a heavy load of bitter cultivation, changes silently occurred in Chen Xi’s
imposing manner. He was full of spirit between his brows and he was like a treasured
sword, concealing a sharp aura of slaughter within. The muscles of his entire body had line
by line and piece by piece become even more clearly angular, and a jade-like lustre was
suffused on the surface as if boundless energy was contained within.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

His fist tore through the sky and emitted a low and sharp sound of rending the air. This was
the sound of the vibration in the air caused by the strength within the muscles being
condensed to a certain degree.

When this type of vibration attained a certain degree, it would have already attainted the
second level of the Grand Collapsing Fist — collapsing a rock into powder. At that time,
with a fist strike onto the rock, the shattered bits would be like powder and would scatter
with the wind.

Sweat wound down his body and heavy gasps for breath were mixed with surges of
howling wind from striking out with the fist, and it resounded for a long time in the air
above the forest.

Six hours later.

Chen Xi fell flat on his back onto the ground, terribly fatigued. Every muscle in his body
was aching and weak, and he was unwilling to even move a finger.

“Senior Ji Yu, my qi refinement cultivation has attained the 8th level of the Congenital
Realm now, and my body refinement cultivation has already advanced to the Congenital
Realm. According to this momentum, when do you think I can attain the Violet Palace
Realm?” Chen Xi turned his head to gaze at Ji Yu who lay on the rattan chair and asked in a
light voice.

Ji Yu was same as always, eating meat and drinking wine as he answered, “At least a year.
Regardless of if it’s the school of fiendgod body refinement or the school of qi refinement,
developing the Violet Palace is an extremely difficult barrier. Your cultivation has already
advanced swiftly enough, you don’t have to cultivate so desperately.”

Chen Xi sighed. “I have too many enemies. If I don’t cultivate desperately, how would I
become strong?”

Ji Yu replied with an ‘oh,’ then raised the bottle gourd of wine in his hand and asked, “Do
you want to have a drink?”

Chen Xi repeatedly shook his head. “No. The energy contained within the wine is too
terrifying. Even if it’s able to be used by me, it caused me to be unable to cultivate my fist
technique for seven days. Moreover, the explosive increase in cultivation was of no benefit
towards my training, so it doesn’t matter if I don’t drink it.”

The facts were indeed like this, since drinking a few mouthfuls of the strong wine within
the bottle gourd half a month ago, although Chen Xi’s body refinement cultivation had
broken through to the Congenital Realm in one go, the side-effects were extremely obvious
as well. The explosive increase in his strength caused him to be unable to skilfully and
easily use his body. For the sake of avoiding the state of his foundation being unstable, he
spent another half a month worth of time to draw upon the Thick Earthstar baleful qi and
Pure Woodstar baleful qi to temper his body once again, and the arduousness of the process
caused Chen Xi to have a lingering fear in his heart.

Ji Yu said rather regretfully, “It’s indeed like you’ve said, drawing upon the assistance of
external forces to break through in your cultivation is the easiest way to cause the condition
of your foundation to be unstable. And this would cause you to easily suffer qi deviation
when charging towards a higher Realm in the future. However, once you’ve attained the
Violet Palace Realm and have established your Dao Foundation, then you don’t have to
worry about the appearance of these problems.”

Actually the principle was extremely simple and Chen Xi understood it as well. Before
developing the Violet Palace, regardless if it was the Postnatal Realm or the Congenital
Realm, they were both there for the sake of preparing for establishing the Dao Foundation.
Only when the Dao Foundation was strong and firm would he be able to go further on the
path of cultivation. Even though using the assistance of external forces would allow his
cultivation to advance swiftly, compared to the future journey towards the Dao, it was
obviously of more harm than benefit.

“Actually, if you want to increase your strength, live battle is undoubtedly the best choice.”
Ji Yu suddenly spoke, then slowly said, “The abundance of experience in live battle will be
of great important while facing an enemy. An expert that was tempered through life and
death battles would even be able to challenge an opponent of a higher cultivation than
himself.”

The attainment in cultivation didn’t represent that one was able to utilize this strength.

Possessing profound martial skills, but having never experienced the tempering of blood
and fire would only amount to fancy fighting.

Chen Xi deeply agreed.

“Numerous demon beasts walk about within this mountain range’s forest, and the deeper
you go, the stronger the demon beasts will be. There’s no lack of greater demons with
formidable strength within the forest, but with your current strength, it’s better for you to
look for some Congenital Realm demon beasts to train with.” Ji Yu pointed towards the
depths of the forest as he suggested.

After a wild beast possessed intelligence, it would be able to swallow and absorb the spirit
energy of heaven and earth to transform into a demon beast. After going through arduous
cultivation, it would be able to step into the Congenital Realm like humans and continue to
step onto the path to seek immortality.

According to the difference in bloodlines, demon beasts were normally divided into demon
beasts and divine beasts.

When ordinary demon beasts cultivated to the Congenital Realm, they were able to freely
take human form, whereas it was extremely difficult for divine beasts to take human form.
Some divine beasts needed to attain the Violet Palace Realm to be able to take human form,
some instead needed to attain the Golden Realm, and some even required an even higher…
However, divine beasts possessed the bloodline of primordial demons and they were born
possessing intelligence and extremely high natural talent. Their strength was much more
formidable than ordinary demon beasts.

“Fight and kill a Congenital Realm greater demon? I seem to have not seen one during all
these days?” Chen Xi couldn’t help but be startled. Battling a demon beast was no different
than battling a human, and on the contrary, the imposing manner of a demon beast usually
surpasses humans. Among demon beasts, a Congenital Realm greater demon that occupied
a territory of its own would surely have slowly risen up from killing and battles. With the
level and viciousness of its combat experience, it would usually be able to terrify its
opponent to the point that their scalp went numb with a single glance, causing its opponent
to be only able to exert 50% of their strength.

Ji Yu smiled then asked in response, “They dare come close to here?” His casual tone
revealed boundless contempt.

Chen Xi came to a sudden understanding, he’d nearly forgotten that Ji Yu was the spirit of
the manor that had lived for a million years, and his appearance is that of a Qilin with jet-
black hooves and a single horn on his head. If those demon beasts dared to come close, they
would simply be looking to be bashed!

Chen Xi didn’t say anything further and waited for his physical strength to recover before
tidying up his clothes and directly moving towards the depths of the forest.

Under the night sky, the forest was extremely dark and unusually silent. After moving
forward for the time it took an incense stick to burn, Chen Xi encountered a demon beast
with a strength that was barely at the initial-stage of the Postnatal Realm.

However, Chen Xi instead became cautious, as ordinary Congenital Realm cultivators

didn’t dare enter a dangerous place like this and a slight carelessness on his part might lead
to suffering a sneak attack and dying from these ferocious and cunning demon beats.

He gradually moved deeper and deeper, killing a few more demon beasts on the way.
Unfortunately, the strength of these demon beasts were weak and couldn’t arouse his
interest in the slightest.

He once again moved forward a few kilometres, then Chen Xi suddenly stopped in his
tracks and a trace of surprise flashed at the bottom of his eyes.

“There’s sounds of fighting!” Chen Xi’s soul was much stronger than an ordinary cultivator
with the same cultivation as him, and it was already faintly arriving at the verge of breaking
through. This also allowed him to be able to catch movements that ordinary people were
unable to notice.

At this moment, he’d precisely relied on the strength of his soul to hear the vague sounds of
battle that resounded out from far away.
He never imagined that there actually would still be people that dared to enter deep within
this mountain forest late at night… Chen Xi followed the sound and silently rushed over.

Up ahead was a seemingly empty pile of rocks. Borrowing the starlight from above, he was
vaguely able to see some figures flashing about, and besides this there were sounds of
frightening beast roars.

When he was still 100 steps away from the rock pile, Chen Xi took a breath then leapt up
onto a large tree before hiding himself within the crown of the tree to get a good vantage
point to clearly see the faraway scene.

In the empty space at the centre of the rock pile, it was a complete mess, and at this
moment, two men and a woman were waving about the weapons in their hands as they
jointly attacked an enormous demon beast.

This demon beast was shaped like a tiger or leopard with a body that was over 7 meters
long. Its fur was like silver and its limbs were thick and strong like poles. Sharp fangs that
were the shape of saws filled its entire bloody mouth, and its claws were 1 meter long and
sharp like knives.

This was an adult Silverwind Leopard with a strength comparable to the perfection stage in
the Postnatal Realm. Its sharp claws were like knives and its speed was extremely swift like
the wind, and it was extremely skilled in stealth and sneak attacks. What caused people to
feel terror the most was that the sharp claws of the Silverwind Leopard carried a toxic
poison, and if an infected person wasn’t treated in time the meridians in the person’s body
would burn into nothingness and the person would become a cripple.

Chen Xi noticed the red leaf design on the sleeves of the three people, and the name of an
inferior institution appeared within his mind — Redleaf Institution.

Redleaf Institution was situated within the institution district in Pine Mist City; it closely
neighbored Skystar Institution and had 300 plus disciples. Amongst the numerous
institutions, its strength was able to be ranked amongst the top ten.

What caused people to delight in talking about the most was the Redleaf Institution's Dean
Ye Qiu, who cultivated the Dao with a saber. The Redleaf Saber Technique he created was
straightforward and simple, and it used simple moves to defeat skilful moves. According to
the differentiation of grades, it could already be called a high-grade martial skill.
Supposedly, the strength of Ye Qiu was formidable enough to the extent he was even able
to battle the number one expert under the command of the General’s Estate, Luo Chong.

The strength of the three people that were jointly attacking the Silverwind Leopard wasn’t
high, but their cooperation was quite tacit, and they ought to have cultivated a type of
combination attack arts. The three sabers splashed out like the rain, seeming to weave an
impenetrable saber net that firmly trapped the Silverwind Leopard into a corner, to the
point it would only be able to struggle and wait for death.
“Courting death!” The blue clothed young man that stood in the middle suddenly shouted
out explosively when he saw the Silverwind Leopard wanting to strike regardless of if it
was injured, he quickly swung out three saber strikes that whistled in the air, and the swift
and fierce saber energy forced the Silverwind Leopard to retreat.

His companions by his side took advantage of this opportunity to suddenly launch an attack
without the slightest hesitation, and the shiny and sharp saber lights were like rain droplets
as they chopped towards the Silverwind Leopard.

Behind it was the hard rocks that stood tall and erect, thus it had no path of retreat.

Something’s not right!

When he saw the Silverwind Leopard about to be killed on the spot, Chen Xi who was
concealed atop the tree crown instead perceived that something was off.

That Silverwind Leopard is too calm, even if it was deeply caught in a hopeless situations,
its gaze is still calm and ferocious, and even emitting a trace of coldness and complacency
occasionally.

There’s an ambush!

How strong was Chen Xi’s soul? At the instant he perceived something was not right, he’d
quickly noticed that within the shadows surrounding the rocks, ten plus robust beast figures
were silently approaching…

Roar! Roar! Roar!

The sounds of 10 plus beast roars mixed together was like the horn of attack, resounding
out within the dense night sky.
Chapter 27 - Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area

“Oh shit! Junior Brother Qu, Junior Sister Duan, watch out around you!” The blue clothed
young man’s face went pale when he heard the continuous sounds of beast roars that rose
and fell, and he stopped attacking the Silverwind Leopard before assuming a defensive
posture with his saber before his chest as he carefully prepared himself.

At practically the moment the blue clothed young man finished speaking, the other man and
woman successively stopped their attacks before gathering by the blue clothed young man’s
side, and their faces were already horrified.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

Accompanied by the beast roars that resounded out, ten plus Silverwind Leopards appeared
around the rock pile, completely surrounding the three of them in a right ring.

Roar!

The Silverwind Leopard that was nearly forced to a corner and killed walked unhurriedly
with an even pace to stand within the group of beasts, then it faced the three of them as it
emitted a complacent roar.

“Dammit! I never expected we would fall into this dirty beast’s ambush!” The blue clothed
young man’s expression was exceedingly unsightly. When faced with this scene, how could
he not guess that the Silverwind Leopard from earlier was only bait, and it wanted to bait
the three of them to here?

The other man had a round face and small eyes, and immaturity was contained between his
brows, as he asked with a terrified and trembling voice, “Senior Brother Lu, what should…
What should we do?”

A single Silverwind Leopard’s strength was comparable to the perfection-stage in the

Postnatal Realm, and at this moment, there were over 10 Silverwind Leopards around them.
With their cultivations, they didn’t have the slightest chance at victory.

“What else can we do? We have already been completely surrounded by these dirty beasts.
It’s utterly impossible for us to flee.” Senior Brother Lu replied with a calm expression. He
was similarly extremely anxious in his heart, as they were within the forest of a southern
barbaric mountain and it was even deep within the night. Thus, it was impossible for them
to seek help.

“Senior Brother Lu, Senior Brother Qu, I’m sorry. It’s all because of me. If it wasn’t for the
sake of obtaining the skin, fur, and sharp claws of the Silverwind Leopard for me, the two
of you wouldn’t encounter such danger. I’ll draw them away later, and you two seize the
opportunity to flee.” The nearby young woman was delicate and pretty, yet thin and weak.
As she spoke, tears welled within her eyes, and her expression was extremely remorseful
and regretful.

“Junior Sister Duan, don’t talk nonsense!” Senior Brother Lu shouted out explosively, then
he raised the long saber in his hand and said coldly, “We’ll attack together. Killing one
beast is one beast. Even if we die, we will die together.”

“Right! The Dean always says that if you only think about fleeing when faced with danger,
then you won’t be able to become a true saber cultivator throughout your lifetime. I support
Senior Brother Lu!” Junior Brother Qu gnashed his teeth as he spoke, the terror on his face
disappeared, and his immature round face was filled with a firm and vicious expression.

“Senior Brother…”  Junior Sister Duan began to speak but stopped. She was moved to the
point she was unable to speak.

“Kill!” Senior Brother Lu lightly smiled, he glanced the Junior Brother and Junior Sister
beside him, and then his face revealed dense killing intent as he shouted out explosively
with the long saber in his hand, attacking the Silverwind Leopards first!

“Kill!” Junior Brother Qu and Junior Sister Duan followed right behind him, holding their
long sabers tightly with surging battle intent.

Roar!

The ten plus Silverwind Leopards moved out when they saw their prey still wanting to put
up a last struggle, and their robust figures flashed past the night sky as they brandished their
one meter long sharp claws to pounce towards the Senior Brother Lu’s group of three.

“These three people are in danger…” Chen Xi silently watched the faraway battle, and as
he watched the three Redleaf Institution disciples that were like straw as they struggled
bitterly within the group of beasts, he extremely admired the three of them for their courage
and camaraderie to not abandon one another.

Ah!

A shrill cry of pain sounded out, as a Silverwind Leopard had seized an opportunity during
the gaps in his defense, and its sharp claw fiercely tore open two deep wounds on Junior
Brother Qu’s chest.

“Junior Brother Qu!” Senior Brother Lu shouted out explosively. He wanted to save Junior
Brother Qu, but the three Silverwind Leopards before him were constantly harassing him,
causing him to be unable to free himself, and his face distorted from rage and gloominess.

“Senior Brother Qu, quickly leave with Senior Brother Lu!” Senior Brother Lu saw Junior
Brother Qu was about to be killed by the Silverwind Leopard, but he heard a delicate shout
and Junior Sister Duan disregarded the attack in front of her as she turned around to swing
her saber at the Silverwind Leopard beside Junior Brother Qu.

When Senior Brother Lu saw Junior Sister Duan disregarding her own safety to go save
Junior Brother Qu, his face couldn’t help but go pale and he cried out involuntarily in
alarm, “Junior Sister!”

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

Three Silverwind Leopards seized this chance to rush over, and their sharp claws fiercely
clawed towards Junior Sister Duan from behind.

“Senior Brothers, I still want to be your Junior Sister in my next life…” Junior Sister Duan
knew that death was at hand, and she slowly closed her eyes.

“Junior Sister!”

“Junior Sister!”

The furious roars of her two Senior Brothers entered her ears, it caused her to feel happy
yet sad, and she said in her heart, “I wonder when I can hear their voice again…”

Bang! Bang! Bang!

A burst of heavy and dull sounds suddenly echoed out, like a 500kg sandbag had fallen
from the sky to smash down onto the ground, and there were miserable beast howls mixed
within.

I’m not dead?

Junior Sister Duan opened her eyes in complete bewilderment, and when she saw the scene
before her, she instead felt that she was dreaming.

Suddenly, an unfamiliar youth stood before her. The youth had a thin and tall figure, and a
handsome and firm face. He silently stood there seeming like an immovable mountain,
causing one to be unable to help from feeling safe and at ease.

Three miserable Silverwind Leopards that were howling in grief were shockingly beneath
the youth’s feet.

The youth was precisely Chen Xi, and the reason he saved them was extremely simple.
While atop the three, when he saw that Junior Sister Duan willing to give up her life to save
her comrade, he was extremely moved by this camaraderie that was strong as metal and
stone. How could he watch on and see her die beneath the sharp claws of the Silverwind
Leopard?
“The Grand Collapsing Fist is formidable as expected. With my current strength, I’m
completely capable of killing this group of Silverwind Leopards by myself!”

Before he attacked, Chen Xi had never thought that he would only need three punches to
shatter all the bones in the three Silverwind Leopard’s bodies. At this moment, when he
gazed at the three Silverwind Leopards that had lost their ability to fight, strong confidence
couldn’t help but be aroused within his heart.

Roar!

Chen Xi’s sudden appearance caused the attacks of the Silverwind Leopard group to cease
for a short moment. When they saw their companions howling miserably while lying on the
floor and unable to stand up, the ferociousness of these Silverwind Leopard’s were
completely stirred, and they abandoned their opponents to howl as they dashed towards
Chen Xi.

Bring it!

Killing intent flashed within Chen Xi’s eyes, and his figure swayed before rushing straight
at them.

Bang!

Body like a bow, fist like an arrow, Chen Xi struck out with his fist and strong winds
howled out in all directions. A Silverwind Leopard was like a ball that was slapped flying
with a rod, fiercely smashing deep into a rock 30 over meters away and was unable to stand
up again.

Chen Xi didn’t stop for a moment after successfully using a single move to deal with a
Silverwind Leopard, then he leaned to the side and bent his waist to dodge the attack that
pounced at him from the front. His right elbow shot out like lightning to fiercely strike his
fist onto the abdomen of his attacker.

Pu!

His arm directly went through the stomach of the Silverwind Leopard, breaking upon a
bloody hole the size of a bowl, and internal organs that were covered in blood splashed and
flowed down.

Chen Xi waved his hand to toss the corpse away before once again pouncing at another
Silverwind Leopard.

At this moment, battle intent surged in Chen Xi’s chest. After his Grand Collapsing Fist
had attained the first level, collapsing a rock into beads, his two fists were contained the
twofold strength of both his body and True Essence, and were simply like two 150,000kg
axe hammers. So long as a Silverwind Leopard was struck, the bones in its entire body
would shattered and it would die on the spot.

The more Chen Xi fought, the more exhilarated he felt. Earlier, he’d always been
cultivating by himself and the method of testing his strength was to use his fist to shatter a
rock. How could it compare to being surrounded by dangerous attacks that could take his
life, allowing him to release all his strength without holding back in the slightest?

This sort of feeling was like meeting his match. His battle intent ceaselessly rose, the more
he fought, the more ferocious he became. He tempered the nimble and swift Grand
Collapsing Fist and became even more proficient and skilled with it.

The three Redleaf Institution disciples had gathered together, as with the addition of Chen
Xi, the pressure upon them instantly lowered greatly, even to the extent they were
completely unable to interfere and could only obediently stand aside. At this moment,
Junior Brother Qu couldn’t help but let out heartfelt praise as he gazed at Chen Xi who was
like a war god under the shroud of night, skilfully and easily killing the Silverwind
Leopards successively. “So formidable! Is that the Grand Collapsing Fist?”

“It’s indeed the Grand Collapsing Fist, but it seems to be even more simple and effective
than the moves of an ordinary Grand Collapsing Fist. Not only has the strength increased a
level, but even the might of it is extremely shocking.” Senior Brother Lu had extremely
sharp judgment, but with his cultivation, he was still unable to see through the profundity of
Chen Xi’s fist technique. Even so, he still couldn’t help admire in his heart and he vaguely
felt that Chen Xi’s fist technique ought to enter the advanced-stage very soon.

The advanced-stage, that’s a stage that only Violet Palace Realm cultivators were able to
master!

What caused Senior Brother Lu to be bewildered was that the youth’s cultivation seemed to
have not attained the level capable of developing the Violet Palace. What’s going on?
Could it be that this fellow is a disciple of a great sect?

“I wonder who this fellow is? Why have I never heard of a figure as formidable as him
within the younger generation of our Pine Mist City?” Junior Brother Qu exclaimed with
admiration as he cleaned the injuries on his chest.

“Hmph, what fellow? Mind your words Senior Brother Qu, this Senior saved our lives.”
Junior Sister Duan fiercely glared at Junior Brother Qu.

Senior?

Senior Brother Lu cracked a smile. It looks like in the heart of Junior Sister Duan, that
youth has already become an old monster with unfathomable cultivation.
Within the cultivation world, so long as one had developed the Violet Palace and
established the Dao Foundation, not only would one’s appearance not change anymore,
even their lifespan would attain a qualitative leap. Some great cultivators were able to live
for at least a few hundred years, and some were even able to live for thousands of years. So,
when faced with an unfamiliar cultivator that possessed a higher cultivations, people would
ordinarily call the unfamiliar cultivator as ‘Senior.’

Bang!

Chen Xi struck the last Silverwind Leopard flying, then he looked around and saw the
ground filled with corpses. He smacked his lips in dissatisfaction before turning around,
intending to leave.

The strongest amongst these Silverwind Leopards only possessed a strength at the
perfection-stage of the Postnatal Realm and were already unable to satisfy his combat
needs. Moreover, it was only six hours before dawn, and dawn would also mean that he
would once again return to the Quiet Room to train in the culinary arts. So he had to make
the best use of his time and seek out a true Congenital Realm greater demon to temper his
live combat experience.

“Fellow Daoist, please wait.” The lives of himself and his Junior Sister and Junior Brother
had been saved. Senior Brother Lu wouldn’t watch on as their savior left, so he hurriedly
chased him.

Lu Shaocong walked forward and said respectfully, “I’m the Redleaf Institution’s Lu
Shaocong, this is my Junior Brother Qu Cheng and Junior Sister Duan Ying. Thank you
Fellow Daoist for saving my life. May I ask for Fellow Daoist’s name, and where do you
live? I will surely return the favor with lavish gifts once we return to Pine Mist City.”

“There’s no need. I only lifted a finger. Demon beasts roam without restraint within this
southern barbaric mountain’s forest, all of you should leave as early as possible.” Chen Xi
shook his head, but was unwilling to reveal his identity, then he walked off.

Lu Shaocong’s group of three were dumbstruck, and seeing that Chen Xi was gradually
going further and was about to disappear on the shroud of the night sky, Duan Ying
suddenly said, “Senior, are you heading to the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area to hunt
some greater demons? I have a map here, perhaps it would be of use to you.”

Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area?

Map?

Chen Xi was stunned and abruptly stopped his footsteps.

Chapter 28 - Violet Rhino Greater Demon

Forbidden area meant that it was forbidden to enter!

In the cultivation world, an existence that’s able to be called a forbidden area was usually a
place that’s extremely dangerous.

The Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area was exactly so.

To the cultivators of Pine Mist City, not only were there various extremely terrifying
greater demons living within that entire 50,000 km area of the Southern Barbaric Mountain
Range, even the living environment was dangerous and complex. It was like a battlefield
that devils roamed about freely within, and was completely not a place that a cultivator
would step into with guts alone.

The Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area was situated deep within the 100,000 huge
mountains in the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range.

Chen Xi had been living in Pine Mist City since he was young and had once heard of the
rumors about the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area. At this moment, when he heard that
he would enter the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area if he headed a little deeper, he
naturally didn’t dare rashly move forward.

He was still able to guarantee the safety of his life if he hunted and killed demon beasts at
the outer area of the southern barbaric mountains, but if he were to enter the forbidden area
where greater demons roamed unrestrained, it would probably not be such a simple matter.

However, the map Duan Ying mentioned gave Chen Xi a reminder; if he possessed a map
of the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area, he would completely be capable of
circumnavigating those dangerous place to avoid the places those terrifying greater demons
stayed, and seek his intended target.

Duan Ying hurriedly chased up to Chen Xi when she saw him stop, then said respectfully,
“Senior, the only reason the three of us dared to venture here was because I have a map that
was handed down by my ancestors in my possession. It annotates in detail the geographical
environment and distribution of demon beasts within the Southern Barbaric Forbidden
Area. If you’re unfamiliar towards this place, I can help show you the way.”

Chen Xi was originally curious as to why these three people whose cultivation was only
around the perfection-stage of the Postnatal Realm would actually be so brave as to dare
hunt Silverwind Leopards within the southern barbaric mountain’s forest at night. Now, he
was suddenly enlightened when heard about the map Duan Ying spoke of.

“I want to hunt a Congenital Realm greater demon.” Chen Xi said truthfully, as he wanted
to hear Duan Ying’s opinion.
Congenital Realm greater demon?

Lu Shaocong, Qu Cheng, and Duan Ying all let out a breath of cold air and were extremely
shocked.

Compared to Congenital Realm cultivators, demon beasts that had experienced countless
years of tempering to advance to the Congenital Realm were not only able to take human
form, but also usually had cultivations that were much deeper and more solid than
cultivators. Coupled with the baptism of slaughter all through their lives, a Congenital
Realm greater demon was completely capable of dominating a cultivator of the same
cultivation, and were really extremely formidable.

And it was precisely because of this that when they heard Chen Xi wanted to hunt and kill a
Congenital Realm greater demon all by himself, the shock in their hearts was imaginable.

“Senior, there’s a place called Spiritcave Lake at the outer area of the forbidden area, and a
two-headed Violet Rhino greater demon that possesses a strength of around the initial-stage
of the Congenital Realm occupies that place. Its skin and bones are as if made from steel,
and it possesses boundless strength and shocking defense, but isn’t good at speed. If you
want to hunt and kill a Congenital Realm greater demon, then this two-headed Violet Rhino
greater demon is extremely suitable.”

Duan Yin withdrew a jade slip and looked through it a little, then a trace of excitement
appeared on her delicate and pretty face as she swiftly said, “Even if you’re unable to
defeat it, you can still safely flee.”

Spiritcave Lake? Two-headed Violet Rhino greater demon?

I currently possess a qi refinement strength at the 8th level of the Congenital Realm, and
my body refinement has already advanced to the Congenital Realm, dealing with this
initial-stage Congenital Realm Violet Rhino greater demon is extremely suitable.

Chen Xi pondered for a moment and directly asked, “Where’s the location?”

“I’ll take you!”

Duan Ying had a resolute expression as she said, “The three of us have all attained the
perfection-stage of the Postnatal Realm. On one hand, we came to the southern barbaric
mountain’s forest this time to collect the sharp claws, fur and skin of the Silverwind
Leopard; and on the other hand, we also hope to be able to temper our strength through
hunting and killing demon beasts, as we aspire to be able to break through to the Congenital
Realm.”

“Senior, don’t refuse straight away.” Duan Ying didn’t wait for Chen Xi to speak as she
continued. “Don’t worry, Senior. The three of us won’t interfere in Senior’s actions. On the
contrary, if Senior encounters some danger, we can help as well. We only ask that Senior is
able to allow us to witness a battle of the Congenital Realm.”

Chen Xi was in a difficult position, if he took the three of them, Chen Xi would still need to
take care of them in the event that they encountered danger, and it was very exhausting. If
he were to not agree, he didn’t know the location of Spiritcave Lake, and if he were to
blindly search for it, he might counter a terrifying greater demon and it was extremely not
worthwhile.

“Senior, take us along, leave life and death to fate. If we really encounter danger that we’re
unable to withstand, then Senior doesn’t have to trouble yourself for us.”

“Yeah, Senior, take us along.”

Lu Shaocong and Qu Cheng changed the way they addressed Chen Xi, and looked at Chen
Xi with eager eyes.

Madness!

I never expected that the disciples of Redleaf Institution were actually all so insane, they
only just escaped from danger and they want to risk their lives again? Could it be that
advancing in their cultivation is even more important than their lives?

Even though he thought like this, but a trace of enlightenment silently slipped through his
heart. If you haven’t gone insane, then you haven’t lived. Cultivators defy the heavens to
seek the Dao. Convictions like theirs were absolutely what was needed to seed the Dao!

In the end, Chen Xi agreed to the three of them joining him.

Lu Shaocong’s group of three were extremely excited, they intended to share with Chen Xi
some of the sharp claws, fur, and skin removed from the 10 plus Silverwind Leopard
corpses on the ground, but were refused by him with a shake of his head. The sharp claws,
fur, and skin were of no use to him, and bringing it along would only be a burden to him.

After the time for an incense stick to burn, Chen Xi’s group felt alarmed on the way but
still safely arrived at a low hill.

“Senior, please look.” Duan Ying pointed ahead. “Spiritcave Lake is over there.”

Chen Xi looked into the distance and saw a vast and boundless great lake that rippled
peacefully 5km in the distance. Under the rays of dazzling star light from the night sky, a
dreamlike hue appeared atop the lake.

The nighttime fog curled upwards where numerous demon beasts of various forms could be
vaguely seen swimming about the luxuriant aquatic plants, and a bird with wings that were
30 meters wide glided atop the lake. This was the world of demon beasts!
This is Spiritcave Lake? I never imagined that it would actually be so beautiful… Chen Xi
thought to himself.

“Senior, the two-headed Violet Rhino stays at the bottom of the lake, at the center.” Duan
Ying explained in a low voice and with an even more respectful manner.

On their way here, although she had a map in her possession, they still encountered
numerous attacks from demon beasts. The strength of these demon beasts weren’t strong,
but they were all adept in concealing themselves and launching sneak attacks. If it wasn’t
for Chen Xi consistently being able to notice them beforehand and killing these demon
beasts on the spot; if solely relying on the three of them, it would be absolutely impossible
for them to arrive here safely.

“It’s relatively safer here. You three wait here.” Chen Xi’s formidable soul swept the
surroundings, and he didn’t notice the tracks of any demon beasts.

“Okay.” Even though they were unwilling, Lu Shaocong’s group of three could only
respectfully comply. They knew that if they approached Spiritcave Lake with their
strengths, it was essentially courting death.

Whoosh!

The tip of Chen Xi’s foot touched the ground, his body was like an arrow that left the bow
as he swiftly flashed down the hill and dashed towards Spiritcave Lake that was 5 km
away.

The vast Spiritcave Lake seemed boundless and the abundant water vapor contained dense
spirit energy of the heaven and earth. If it wasn’t for the demon beasts that could be seen
everywhere, this place would simply be like a Blessed Immortal Ground.

After a short moment, Chen Xi arrived by the lake and stopped to gaze into the distance.

His formidable soul’s energy surged out like a large net to slowly search the surface of the
lake.

Splash! Splash! Splash!

The demon beasts and aquatic animals that swam nearby seemed to have noticed something
as they were alarmed to the point that they raised their heads to look around, then they
instantly fled in fright and vanished.

“The strength of my soul is only able to search an area of few tens of kilometers with
difficulty. This Spiritcave Lake just had to be so big, if I continue searching like this, I’m
afraid I wouldn’t be able to find that two-headed Violent Rhino even until dawn…
Hmmm?”
Chen Xi suddenly noticed a trace of an irregularity, and he vaguely heard sounds of
discussion coming from a hill that was extremely far from Spiritcave Lake.

Weird, it’s the middle of the night, why would there be people within the Southern Barbaric
Forbidden Area?

Chen Xi pondered slightly then silently snuck over towards the hill.

The hill was completely barren, exposing numerous smooth and sharp rocks. At this
moment, over 100 people were gathered there, but only a few tens of people were standing.
They all wore black clothes and carried various weapons, wearing frosty expressions. The
other people had their hands and legs tied, and they were all lay on the ground in kneeling
positions.

“When will Old Freak Violet Rhino arrive?”

“According to our information, it’s around one hour from now.”

“Hmph! What great airs this fellow puts on! If it wasn’t for the sake of… Hmph! Hmph!”

A familiar voice sounded out, causing Chen Xi who was concealed in the shadows to be
shocked inwardly, then he raised his head to look over, and the Li Clan’s Manager Wu
shockingly stood at the center of the group of people.

Why would this old dog be here?

Old Freak Violet Rhino… Could it be that he’s come for the sake of the two-headed Violet
Rhino greater demon as well?

“Old dog Wu! I never expected that our Pine Mist City would have such scum like you!
You actually have no scruples to take our lives as tribute for the sake of getting on friendly
terms with a greater demon! Truly throwing the face of your Li Clan!” A weak and small
youth that was bound on the ground suddenly cursed loudly in rage.

“Bah! Scum that’s willing to be the lackey of a demon beasts! Even if I’m killed by a
demon beast, I won’t fucking let you off even in death!”

“Your Li Clan is full of scum as expected! Fiends in human form! Worse than animals!”

Seeing the youth taking the lead in resisting, the other people that were bound on ground
followed to start cursing out in rage, and their voice contained dense resentment and fury.

“Courting death!” A fellow in black clothes walked forward and fiercely kicked the youth
then cursed. “So what if all you trash from the Commoners District die? What’s with all the
nonsense?”
Commoners District…. Could it be that these people are like me? They’re all the poverty
stricken people that occupy the lowest levels in Pine Mist City?

The killing intent in Chen Xi’s heart boiled when he heard this. Old dog Wu actually taking
the lives of others to curry favor with a demon beast and be the lackey of a demon beast.
This was utterly heartless, contemptible, and malicious to the utmost limit!

“Who? Come out!” Manager Wu suddenly looked towards the spot Chen Xi was concealed.
It was because of the fluctuation in Chen Xi’s mood that had caused his aura to leak out,
and it instantly drew Manager Wu’s attention.

“Old dog Wu! I’ll kill you today!” When he was exposed, Chen Xi knew he couldn’t hide
any longer, so he walked out from the shadows right away, then coldly stared at Manager
Wu with a gaze that contained dense killing intent that raged like fire.

“Hahaha! I was wondering who it was, but it turned out to be you, jinx! Falling to your
ambush a few days ago caused my Li Clan to lose three core disciples. I originally planned
to get even with you later, but I never imagined that you would obediently hand yourself
over. It’s truly the will of the heavens!”

Manager Wu was slightly startled when he saw Chen Xi, then he suddenly threw his head
back and roared in laughter before waving his hand while ordering. “Go! Break all the
limbs of this fellow and cripple his cultivation! I want to make him become absolute trash!”

“Yes!”  A black clothed guard impatiently leapt out of the group, he had a terrifying
expression on his face as he rubbed his hands together and walked towards Chen Xi.
Chapter 29 - Tribute

Chen Xi?

Jinx?

Everyone who was bound on the ground were from the Pine Mist City’s Commoners
District. Even though they hadn’t seen Chen Xi before, they’d heard of Chen Xi’s name
and nickname. At this moment, all of them couldn’t help but be stupefied when they heard
about the youth that had suddenly appeared before them.

“Chen Xi, flee quickly! You’re not a match for him!” Someone shouted out anxiously.

“Right! Flee quickly! Tell everyone about old dog Wu’s evil deeds!” The others recovered
from their shock and all suggested at once.

“Flee? Can he?” The black clothed guard that dashed over smiled even more terrifyingly,
and he took a stride forward before raising his hand to grab towards Chen Xi’s shoulder.

Chen Xi didn’t even spare a glance as he clenched his fist before it shot out like an arrow to
smash onto the black clothed guard’s chest.

Bang!

A low and deep sound echoed out, and the black clothed guard was directly blasted flying
over 30 meters by Chen Xi’s punch. The black clothed guard's terrifying smile instantly
froze, his eyes sprang wide open and his face flashed red. He spat out a mouthful of dark
red blood before falling limply on the ground and was completely unable to stand up again.

“You deserved death!” Chen Xi withdrew his fist and his expression was already extremely
icy cold.

The atmosphere instantly became deathly silent.

Killing his opponent with a single punch?

No matter if it was the people who were bound on the ground, or those black clothed
guards, they all looked at that tall and thin figure with disbelief.

“Idiot! All of you go together!” Manager Wu was the first to recover from his shock, and he
shouted out in explosive rage.

He was extremely shocked in his heart as well. All these black clothed people by his side
were core guards that the Li Clan had fostered and they all had strengths at the Congenital
Realm. Moreover, they carried out sanguinary missions all through the year, and their
martial skills and live combat experience had been tempered to become extremely abundant
since a long time ago. Yet, unexpectedly, the black clothed guard had only just made a
move when he was killed by a single punch from Chen Xi. If he didn’t see it with his own
two eyes, Manager Wu would almost not dare believe his eyes.

Didn’t this kid only know how to craft talismans? When did his cultivation in martial skills
become so formidable?

Could it be that he’s already attained the Violet Palace Realm?

Impossible!

It’s only been a few days. He only relies of crafting talismans to earn those meagre spirit
stones, and he hasn’t become a disciple of any great figure. It’s utterly impossible for him
to advance!

Perhaps, the attack from before was merely him seizing the opportunity to catch his
opponent off guard, and his surprise attack was successful…

Although he thought like this, Manager Wu still felt slightly ill at ease and his gaze
couldn’t help but once again descend onto Chen Xi.

Meanwhile, all those black clothed guards had already moved out.

“Kill!” The miserable death of their comrade and the furious roar of Manager Wu
completely caused these black clothed guards to be filled with rage, and they all
transformed into afterimages as they fiercely pounced towards Chen Xi.

Thump! Thump! Thump!

Chen Xi stepped forward with steady and forceful steps that were neither fast nor slow,
seeming to completely not notice the change in situation in his surroundings.

“Watch out!”

“Quickly flee! Do you not want to live?!”

Those people that were bound on the ground shouted out anxiously. Although Chen Xi
killed a black clothed guard with a single blow, he was still only one person after all. These
elite guards from the Li Clan were extremely skilled in group attacks, and the lone Chen Xi
would have a close to zero chance to win when jointly attacked by them.

Bang!

Chen Xi completely disregarded the saber that was smashing towards him, and directly
struck his fist towards the pit of his opponent’s stomach.
“Kacha!”

The attacking black clothed guard’s was full of smiles when he saw Chen Xi being so
careless and his saber struck onto Chen Xi’s shoulder. What caused him to be stunned was
that his full force saber strike only left a faint white mark on Chen Xi’s shoulder, whereas
his own abdomen was thoroughly penetrated by Chen Xi’s punch and he fell on the ground
and exclaimed miserably a few times before breathing his last breath.

On the other hand, Chen Xi relied on this strike to break free of his situation of being
surrounded. He was like a tiger that had escaped its cage, easily moving through the black
clothed guards that surrounded him, and his fist was like dense raindrops that splashed out.

Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

A string of heavy sounds of a fist smashing onto the body echoed out, and the 10 plus black
clothed guards were like kites that had their strings cut off as they flew out with deeply
sunken chests, and thick blood flowed out from their five orifices.

“How could this be possible?!”

“My god!”

“This… this… This isn’t real, right?”

Everyone present was shocked by the scene before them, and their pupils dilated as they
gazed in disbelief at the tall figure that stood between the blood and corpses.

“You… We’re the black clothed guards of the Li Clan!” The unsightly expressions of the
other black clothed guards revealed a trace of terror. They were furious, but didn’t dare
arbitrarily move forward.

“I precisely want to kill all of you!” Chen Xi said in a cold voice. The Li Clan and the Chen
Clan were originally mortal enemies, as the suspicion on the Li Clan was the biggest in the
matter of Chen Tianli being ambushed to death and Chen Hao having his right arm
crippled. So he naturally didn’t hold back in the slightest when killing them.

Whoosh!

Chen Xi’s body drew back like a bow before throwing himself forward once again, the
formidable Grand Collapsing Fist was exerted by him at full force, and it transformed into
layer upon layer of fist images that killed another eight black clothed guards in the blink of
an eye.

“This fellow’s body is utterly impenetrable by swords and sabers. He’s obviously cultivated
a profound body refinement technique. Flee quickly!”
“Flee!”

The remaining five black clothed guards shouted out in fright and they actually didn’t
bother about Manager Wu as they turned around, intending to flee.

How could Chen Xi allow his enemies to flee right before his eyes? His body swayed at
once and was last to move but first to arrive. Fist images flashed as his swift and fierce fist
shot out fist lights that were condensed from True Essence to tear through the air towards
the black clothed guards.

Instantly, a hole that was the size of a bowl appeared on the backs of the remaining five
black clothed guards and they fell down lifelessly.

“Huh?” Manager Wu wasn’t able to maintain his composure any longer and his face went
pale. Those fist lights of Chen Xi’s that tore through the sky caused him to notice a trace of
danger.

“So formidable!”

“So strong!”

“No wonder he’s so composed. So it turned out his strength is actually so terrifying!”

Those people that had long since lost all hope suddenly became excited, as when they saw
Chen Xi’s straightforward killing methods, a strand of hope once again lit ablaze in their
hearts.

“Hmph! I never imagined that you actually cultivated in body refinement to the Congenital
Realm. If I’m not wrong, it seems that your fist technique is soon to advance to the
advanced-stage. No wonder you dare be so arrogant. Unfortunately, I’m already halfway
into the Violet Palace Realm, and the strength I control is something you’re utterly
incapable of imagining.” Manager Wu’s triangular eyes slightly narrowed.

Although he spoke like this, he didn’t dare be careless in the slightest. He didn’t care about
the miserable deaths of the black clothed guards, but Chen Xi’s strength instead caused him
have no choice but to be cautious.

It was common knowledge that the school of body refinement was the most difficult
cultivation pathway. The slowness of cultivation and the difficulty of advancing wasn’t
inferior to climbing a towering mountain on foot. But the strength of a body refiner was
extremely shocking, as a body refiner completely dominated all qi refiners of the same
cultivation. This was indisputable!

What Manager Wu said wasn’t wrong, Chen Xi precisely relied on the strength of his body
that was extremely strong and the Grand Collapsing Fist that was soon to break through to
the second level to successively kill over 20 black clothed guards in a short amount of time.
Otherwise, solely based on his cultivation, facing the attacks of a group of initial-stage
Congenital Realm black clothed guards with his qi refinement cultivation that was at the
8th level of the Congenital Realm was only courting death.

“Cut the crap! I’ll be taking your fucking life today!” Chen Xi said coldly. The battle with
the black clothed guards couldn’t be considered dangerous, but it instead allowed him to
further confirm his strength. Under the combination of his 8th level Congenital Realm qi
refinement cultivation and his initial-stage Congenital Realm body refinement cultivation,
he completely didn’t fear any Congenital Realm cultivators.

So what if he’s halfway to the Violet Palace Realm?

He’s still at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm in the end, and is nothing to be
feared!

“Hmph! Since you’re courting death, I’ll fulfill your wish!” Manager Wu grunted coldly.
His large hands that were like bamboo were covered in a layer of thick black mist, then he
fiercely slapped his hands onto the ground.

Kacha!

The ground suddenly split open, and a pitch-black windy fissure swiftly spread out to the
surroundings like a bolt of lightning.

Huh? He wants to…

Not giving time to Chen Xi to recover from his shock, a loud bang echoed out, and
countless amounts of sharp rubble shot out of the fissures on the ground that spread out like
a spider’s web, like hidden weapons that whizzed as they shot out like a storm. The target
of the rubble was shockingly those people that were bound on the ground!

“Shameless!” Chen Xi finally got his head around the matter, and he shouted out
explosively at once. His figure then flashed to stand before the group of people and his fists
were swift like lightning as the struck towards the approaching rubble that blotted out the
sky.

However, the amount of rubble was in the tens of thousands and were dense like a swarm
of locusts. Chen Xi went all out and was only barely able to protect the people in an area of
3 meters around him, whereas due to being bound on the ground and unable to move, the
other people who were slightly further from him were instantly robbed of their lives by the
sharp rubble.

“Hahaha! These tributes are the food of Old Freak Violet Rhino! Now that so many have
died, you just wait to suffer his fury! I’m sorry, but I can’t keep you company!” Manager
Wu laughed loudly in complacency from afar, then his figure leapt up and he’d vanished
after a few leaps.
Watching helplessly as Manager Wu fled off caused Chen Xi to have no place to vent his
bellyful of rage, and his expression became even more icy cold.

Bang!

After smashing the last piece of rubble, Chen Xi turned to look but he noticed that more
than half of the bound people were dead, and only 30 over people remained.

Old dog Wu! I’ll fucking skin you alive one day!

Chen Xi took a deep breath and forcefully controlled the urge to give chase. The pressing
matter of the moment was how to send all these people back to Pine Mist City from the
extremely dangerous Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area.

Chen Xi pondered for a moment, then called over Lu Shaocong’s group of three that was
concealed 5 km away and instructed the three of them to send these people back, whereas
he instead chose to stay on the spot.

Lu Shaocong’s group of three had vaguely seen the earlier battle from the low hill, but their
strengths were too weak so they didn’t dare arbitrarily take action and could only inwardly
pray for Chen Xi to be victorious.

At this moment, when they saw the corpses and blood that covered the ground, and heard
that all these people were tributes the Li Clan brought here to satisfy the belly of a greater
demon, their hearts were filled with shock, fury, and indignation. Immediately, they didn’t
hesitate to protect the mere 30 plus people that remained and carefully left.

This is the place old dog Wu and the Violet Rhino greater demon were going to meet. For
the sake of those so-called tributes, that Violet Rhino greater demon will surely turn up. I
only have to wait here. After sending Lu Shaocong and others off with his gaze, Chen Xi
sat cross-legged on the ground right away. The dense smell of blood caused his mood to be
in an extremely stifling state and he urgently wanted to vent his feelings. So that Violet
Rhino greater demon became his target.

Boom!

It wasn’t even 15 minutes when the faraway Spiritcave Lake suddenly shot out sprays of
water that flooded the sky. A large fellow that was 3 meters tall stepped on the sprays as he
dashed over while booms echoed out.

The large fellow was bald with a single eye, his 3 meter tall figure had muscles that seemed
hard like a rock, and the muscles on his body all bulged largely, seeming to contain
terrifying explosive force.
Even though he’s taken human form, the demonic qi on his body is unable to be
concealed… It’s surely him! Chen Xi abruptly stood up and a trace of icy cold killing intent
appeared on the corners of his mouth.
Chapter 30 - Collapsing a Rock Into Powder

“Hmm?” In practically an instant, the single-eyed large fellow appeared on the hill and his
gaze swept the surroundings. As he gazed at the Li Clan black clothed guards that had died
miserably, his expression suddenly became unsightly.

“You killed all these people?” The single-eyed large fellow turned to gaze fiercely at Chen
Xi who stood alone in the distance and his expression kept shifting irregularly.

Chen Xi didn’t answer him, instead he coldly asked, “You’re that Violet Horned animal?”

Animal?

The single-eyed large fellow was stunned, then he burst into a rage and shouted out
explosively. “Human kid! You dare insult me?”

“Not only did I insult you, I also want to kill you today!”

After confirming the identity of the single-eyed large fellow, Chen Xi didn’t hesitate any
longer and his figure flashed out. His fist contained a terrifying strength as it fiercely struck
at the Violet Rhino greater demon.

“A Congenital Realm kid actually dares to be conceited before me? Truly courting death!”
The Violet Rhino greater demon was completely enraged when he saw Chen Xi being more
unreasonable than himself and he extended out his hand that was like a fan to fierce grab
towards Chen Xi’s fist.

A stupid cow, as expected!

Since the moment Manager Wu fled, Chen Xi had a ball of rage suppressed within his heart
that he had no place to vent. When he saw the Violet Rhino greater demon at this moment,
he wouldn’t let himself suffer any longer and decided to attack right away with full force.
At this moment, when Chen Xi saw the Violet Rhino greater demon being conceited to the
point he wanted to use his hand to grab onto Chen Xi’s fist, Chen Xi couldn’t help but
sneer in his heart.

Bang!

The fist and palm collided and emitted a terrifying loud bang. A stream of air rolled out and
the air emitted buzzing sounds of vibrating, and numerous trenches instantly split open due
to the ground beneath their feet being unable to endure the terrifying pressure from their
attacks.

This fist strike contained Chen Xi’s formidable strength of his body mixed with the
terrifying strength of his 8th level Congenital Realm cultivation, and were shot out through
the instant force exertion of the Grand Collapsing Fist to directly blast the Violet Rhino
greater demon flying 10 over meters!

What caused Chen Xi to be surprised was that the Violet Rhino greater demon stood firmly
the moment he dropped onto the ground and he was actually without the slightest injury.

“Your strength isn’t bad, but it’s still too weak to me!” The Violet Rhino greater demon’s
single-eye emitted a vicious and fierce expression and he had a face full of resentment as he
said, “Next, I’ll let you experience what is a true Congenital Realm greater demon!”

As he spoke, billowing demonic qi abruptly surged out from the Violet Rhino greater
demon’s body, and his entire body instantly transformed into an enormous rhino that was
30 meters tall. His brownish violet colored thick skin was suffused with demonic qi and his
entire enormous body was like a small mountain. Chen Xi was like an ant before him, as
Chen Xi’s height wasn’t even up to his knees. Most shocking of all was that atop its thick
and strong neck was an astonishing two enormous heads.

Roar!

The Violet Rhino greater demon that had resumed his beast form roared towards the sky
with a thunderous voice that caused booms to echo out in an area of tens of kilometers
around him. The various demon beasts that cultivated underwater in Spiritcave Lake all
raised their heads in fear and started to shiver.

Towering demonic qi?

There was no fear in Chen Xi’s heart, and instead battle intent that was boiling like lava
surged through his entire body. Only by killing such an opponent would I be able to allow
my cultivation in the Martial Dao to improve!

“Kid! If you only know how to swing those two laughable fists, then you can wait to
become my side dish for wine today!”

As he laughed wildly without restraint, the Violet Rhino greater demon abruptly lifted his
hooves that were enormous like a center column of a house to fiercely descend down from
above and directly trample towards Chen Xi.

Bang!

An ear piercing explosion sounded out from a stream of air shattering, seeming as if this
stomp had stomped a hole through the sky. It hadn’t even touched Chen Xi, when Chen Xi
had already understood its might.

Bang!
Chen Xi leapt up, his fist that spewed an eye piercing shine of True Essence was like a
whistling shooting star as it smashed onto the enormous hoof of the Violet Rhino greater
demon with a loud bang. Yet, it only left a sunken fist print and caused very little injury.

Chen Xi instantly retreated.

Bang! Bang!

The fierce battle on the ground caused the ground to split into countless cracks, and an
enormous chasm appeared at the heart of the cracks.

“It’s no use. My Violet Rhino race possesses peerless defense by nature, and I’ve
experienced thousands of years of tempering. My body has attained an extremely high level
since long ago. If you were a Violet Palace Realm sword cultivator, I might still fear you.
But unfortunately, you aren’t. At most you’re only a little kid who knows little fist
technique. Hahaha…” The Violet Rhino greater demon couldn’t refrain from roaring with
laughter when he saw Chen Xi dodging in a sorry state, and his hooves stomped on the
ground as he once again trampled towards Chen Xi’s small body that was like an ant to
him.

This stupid cow’s strength is extraordinarily great, whereas I don’t have a weapon in hand.
If I want to kill him, it looks like I have to climb onto his body and concentrate my fist on a
single spot on his head. I only need to break his skin and I might be able to kill
him…”  Chen Xi flashed backwards once again, and he madly pondered in his mind as he
dashed violently.

“Afraid? Want to run? Hmph! You can’t escape!” The Violet Rhino greater demon roared
as he followed close behind Chen Xi. He moved swiftly with his thick and strong enormous
hooves, completely disregarding everything in his path as he forced his way forward.

Kacha! Kacha!

Numerous large trees that required many people to encircle, seemed like straw that was
extremely weak under the trampling of the Violet Rhino greater demon’s enormous hooves
and they collapsed onto the ground with a bang.

Swoosh!

Chen Xi reached the peak of a large tree with a leap, then he turned around to face the
Violet Rhino greater demon that was dashing over in attack.

“Waiting for death?” The Violet Rhino greater demon roared with complacent laughter,
then fiercely stomped towards the large tree.

Right at this moment, the top of Chen Xi’s leg suddenly hit the tree trunk and using the
rebound force from the tree trunk, his body was like an arrow that left the bow as he
swished swiftly up high into the sky, then his waist twisted and he moved into a windy arc
to firmly descend onto the Violet Rhino greater demons back.

“Get the fuck down!” The Violet Rhino greater demon burst into rage when Chen Xi leapt
onto his back, and his enormous body started to sway violently.

Chen Xi had seized this opportunity with great difficulty, how could he allow himself to
drop off? His legs instantly exerted strength and his body was like an ancient tree that was
rooted deep within the ground, no matter how the Violet Rhino swayed, he didn’t move in
the slightest.

His two fists instead were like raindrops as they descended onto the head of the Violet
Rhino greater demon with an extremely high frequency.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

The strength of Chen Xi’s body was tempered by the baleful qi of five different stars, and
couple with his condensed and dense True Essence, every fist strike of Chen Xi’s was like a
150,000 kg iron hammer smashing down. Instantly, a mark that sunk extremely deeply was
smashed out on the Violet Rhino greater demons thick skinned and strong head, but
unfortunately, it was still unable to break open his skin.

“I’ll eat you!” Suddenly, wind that smelt of dense blood came straight at Chen Xi’s face,
the Violet Rhino greater demons other enormous head had turned around, and he opened up
his bloody mouth that had crisscrossing fangs that were sharp like swords to fiercely bite
towards Chen Xi.

Come at me!

Chen Xi had expected most of this since long ago, and he suddenly dashed out wildly,
stepping onto the Violet Rhino greater demons neck right until the end, and like a small
nimble monkey, his body leapt up to barely dodge the Violet Rhino greater demons bloody
mouth. After this, an eye piercing fist light appeared on his right hand that had been
accumulating force since long ago, and his fist was swift like a bolt of lightning as he
fiercely smashed it towards the Violet Rhino greater demons eyeball.

Bang!

The skin and flesh on the Violet Rhino greater demons entire body was thick and rough,
and his defensive ability was shocking, but that eyeball of his that was the size of a
millstone was still extremely frail. Under Chen Xi’s fist that had been accumulating force
for a long time, a large hole was instantly blasted out on his eyeball, and a ball of disgusting
green fluid sprayed out.

Roar!
The Violet Rhino greater demon ceaselessly howled at the sky, and his enormous head
swung about madly.

And Chen Xi seized this opportunity to swoop down like a hawk from mid-air, and firmly
descend on the spot he was at earlier, then he once again fiercely smashed his fist towards
the sunken spot at the middle of the Violet Rhino’s head.

The Violet Rhino greater demon had already been completely enraged, and if he didn’t
make the best use of his time to break open the defense on the Violet Rhino’s head, then an
unforeseen event might again if he were to be slow.

A strong sense of urgency caused Chen Xi’s mind to highly concentrate, he only had a
single thought in his heart, and that was to break open the skin and flesh before him, break
open… He’d forgotten everything in his surroundings, forgotten the Grand Collapsing Fist
that he’d already become skilled in, and he sunk into a type of obsessed yet chaotic state.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Chen Xi’s fist sounded oppressive like thunder, within the chaotic sound of the fist strikes
was a trace of a strange rhythm, and his fist strikes became rhythmic. Every time his fist
descended, the force of his fist would slowly increase. Within Chen Xi’s mind, the scenes
of him cultivating the Grand Collapsing Fist during the past month appeared clearly, and
traces of enlightenment silently accumulated…

“I’ll kill you! I’ll kill you!” The Violet Rhino greater demon was completely enraged from
having one of his eyes injured and Chen Xi sticking onto him like sticky candy. He seemed
to be in a frenzied state as his body that was enormous like a mountain lifted off the
ground, then fiercely smashed himself towards the ground with his back facing downwards.
Judging by his actions, he seemed to want to smash Chen Xi to death on the ground.

Om!

Right at the instant the Violet Rhino greater demon lifted himself off the ground, Chen Xi
awoke from that strange state, and a trace of a radiant splendor suddenly flashed within his
eyes. He lifted his right hand and the surrounding air was instantly shaken to the point
circles of ripples could be seen with the eye, then it emitted a buzzing sharp whistle as he
fiercely smashed his fist down!

Crack! Crack!

Countless cracks suddenly appeared on the enormous head of the Violet Rhino greater
demon, then a cracking sound echoed out, and the enormous head transformed into
countless pieces of flesh and bone bits that rustled as they fell onto the ground, seeming to
be like it was raining bits of blood, flesh, and bones.
And at this moment, the enormous body of the Violet Rhino greater demon crashed onto
the ground with a bang.

“AH!” The Violet Rhino greater demon lost a head and an eye of his other head was
injured, and he lay on the ground as he emitted low and miserable howls of pain.

The vitality of demon beasts were extremely strong, and they were able to recover to their
previous state even if their limbs were severed off, but their heads and hearts were their true
weak points. And at this moment, having one of his heads blasted into pieces caused the
Violet Rhino greater demon to be heavily injured.

“Tell me, why did the Li Clan want to offer tributes to you? I can let you die a swift death.”
Chen Xi stood in the distance as he said coldly.

“Don’t I still have to die even if I tell you? Be forthright and kill me!” The Violet Rhino
greater demon said resentfully. The large amounts of blood that surged out of where his
head was severed caused his vitality to become weaker and weaker.

“It doesn’t matter if you don’t tell me.” Chen Xi walked forward and mercilessly smashed
out with his fist, and the remaining head of the Violet Rhino greater demon instantly
transformed into a pool of blood and flesh mud.

A Congenital realm greater demon that had cultivated bitterly for thousands of years had
died just like this.

As expected of the second level of the Grand Collapsing Fist, collapsing a rock into
powder. Although it’s unable to cause the head of this stupid cow to transform into powder,
but its might still exceeds my expectations. 

Chen Xi silently felt the changes in the Grand Collapsing Fist’s might and he couldn’t help
but slightly sigh with emotion in his heart. “Senior Ji Yu wasn’t mistaken. Sure enough,
martial skills are only able to be tempered to achieve an even stronger might in life and
death battles. I wonder what sort of might the third level of the Grand Collapsing Fist
would have…?”

Killing the two-headed Violet Rhino greater demon caused the killing intent and rage
within Chen Xi’s heart to be fully vented, and the most gratifying thing was that he’d
attained the second level of his fist technique. Combined with his own cultivation, he’d
already become fearless of anyone with a similar cultivation as him!

“This stupid cow had cultivated for thousands of years. I wonder what valuable things he
has…?”

Swoosh!
Chen Xi instantly arrived beside the enormous corpse of the Violet Rhino greater demon,
then his hands grabbed out to swiftly tear the thick skin of the Violet Rhino starting along
the spot the head was severed.

After a short while, an inconspicuous storage ring fell onto the ground.
Chapter 31 - Li Huai

What abundant wealth!

Chen Xi picked up the inconspicuous storage ring and briefly searched through it, and he
couldn’t help but inwardly exclaim in surprise.

This storage ring only had a space of an area of 33m and was obviously not of high grade.
However, it contained a pile of 3,000 spirit crystals that contained dense spirit energy, and
it was exchangeable for an entire 300,000 spirit stones!

“This stupid cow actually stored so many spirit crystals. Perhaps it’s for the sake of
breaking through to the Violet Palace Realm in the future? Unfortunately, it’s instead
benefitted me.” Chen Xi was extremely excited in his heart. Perhaps 3,000 spirit crystals
were nothing to some of the great clans and institution in Pine Mist City, but to Chen Xi
who was poverty stricken since young, this sum of spirit crystals was an absolutely
astronomical figure. With these spirit crystal in his possession, he was completely capable
of buying numerous magic treasures, spirit pills, martial skills, and even pay for all his
expenses. He didn’t need to laboriously rush about to bring home the bacon.

However, Chen Xi still didn’t intend to leave his work as a spirit chef apprentice, because
he’d promised the owner of Clear Stream Restaurant, Du Qingxi, long ago that within these
three years, so long as he didn’t leave Pine Mist City, he would absolutely not quit his job.

A man is nothing without his word!

To cultivators, destroying one’s own promise for the sake of the small gain before one’s
eyes was no different from destroying one’s Dao Heart.

Chen Xi still remembered that when he was four, the Su Clan who had a daughter betrothed
to him since before he was born had sent more than 10 Golden Hall Realm experts to stand
atop the sky as they tore his marriage contract to shreds before the eyes of everyone within
Pine Mist City, then flew off after going back on their promise. Whereas his grandfather
suffered endless mocking and ridicule. That humiliation and shame that was impossible to
forget caused his young heart to suffer great harm and he was unable to forget it for his
entire life.

And it was because of this that he cared and valued promises much more than others.

“Eh! What’s this?” Chen Xi’s thoughtlessly glanced at a corner of the storage ring, and he
suddenly noticed a strange thing that was palm-sized. When he picked it up to take a look,
he noticed that this was a black colored jade token that was the shape of a key, and three
ancient words were written atop it — Nether Enlightenment Token.
Chen Xi could only give up after trying various methods and didn’t noticed any peculiarity
about this Nether Enlightenment Token, then he hid the storage ring in his pocket before
looking at the color of the sky for time. He didn’t dare stay here any longer, and he turned
and left.

After 15 minutes.

Chen Xi had finally walked out of the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area and returned to
the dense forest.

Ji Yu who was dozing on the rattan chair slowly opened his eyes, his gaze swept Chen Xi
and seemed to have already seen through all the secrets on Chen Xi, and he lightly laughed.
“Your gains aren’t bad.”

Chen Xi thought about the various encounters of tonight, and he deeply agreed. “Only
through a true life and death battle did I realize that I actually had so many inadequacies. If
it wasn’t for my good luck of encountering a stupid Violet Rhino greater demon, I’m afraid
I would have been in danger tonight.”

Ji Yu lightly smiled then picked up the azure skinned bottle gourd and drank too mouthfuls
of the strong wine before smacking his lips. “This is the benefit of actual combat. It’s able
to allow you to clearly recognize your own inadequacies. Let’s go. The sky is about to get
light and we have to return.”

As he spoke, Ji Yu casually waved his hand, and at the next moment, the two of them
vanished on the spot, only leaving a strand of faint wine fragrance in the air.

Li Clan Main Hall.

Numerous elders that stayed in closed doors had gathered together here today.

“Manager Wu, 30 of our Li Clan’s elite guards with cultivations at the initial-stage of the
Congenital Realm all died at the hand of trash that only knows how to craft talismans?
Truly absurd!”

The one who spoke was a black bearded old man. Although he had an aged face, his skin
was like jade and had a pair of clear eyes. His body emitted a dignified aura that was frosty
and stern. He was Grand Elder, Li Fengtu, who had the most profound cultivation in the Li
Clan.

Manager Wu knelt down with a ‘thump,’ and his emaciated face sweated profusely as he
ceaselessly repeated with a trembling voice. “This old servant is useless, this old servant is
useless…”
“One month ago, because the General’s Estate’s Luo Chong and the Pine Mist Institute’s
Meng Kong butted in, Li Han and his brothers died tragically in the Commoners District,
and Chen Tianli’s young grandson, Chen Hao, was about to leave Pine Mist City. I can
forgive all of this.”

“But, I’ll absolutely not let today’s matter go. For the sake of obtaining the Nether
Enlightenment Token in the possession of Old Freak Violet Rhino, my Li Clan has spent
too much! I can’t bear such a failure, and the entire Li Clan can’t bear it!”

Grand Elder Li Fengtu’s voice was low, frosty, and stern; it contained boundless rage
within. The atmosphere in the main hall became even more silent and oppressive, and no
one dared make a single sound.

“It’s all my fault, I’ve always neglected monitoring Chen Xi…” Li Yizhen felt as if sitting
on a bed of nails, his forehead dripped with sweat and his expression was guilty and
uneasy. He was without even a shred of a patriarch’s dignified manner.

“Hmph.” The Grand Elder snorted coldly, and his expression eased up quite a bit. “The
blame for this matter isn’t on you. For the sake of our current plans, we must seize the
Nether Enlightenment Token as soon as possible, before the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain trials that’s three months from now. Otherwise, once this matter is known by the
Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan…”

Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan!

Even though it was just a mere five words, but it was like a heavy hammer that fiercely
smashed onto Li Yizhen’s heart, and his expression abruptly went unsightly, then he took a
deep breath and gritted his teeth. “Don’t worry Grand Elder, I’ll reclaim the Nether
Enlightenment Token even if I have to use all the strength of the Li Clan!”

Crack!

Right at this moment, the tightly closed door of the main hall was opened. All the elders
present were enraged in their hearts. Who was so audacious as to dare enter arbitrarily?

Bang!

An enormous black silhouette crashed onto the ground, it was shockingly the corpse of the
Violet Rhino that Chen Xi had killed.

“Old Freak Violet Rhino has been killed, that Nether Enlightenment Token ought to have
fallen into Chen Xi’s possession.”

A tall figure accompanied by an icy cold voice that was indifferent, slowly walked in. He
had sword shaped eyebrows and starry eyes, with hair that touched the shoulder, and he
emitted a shocking killing intent as he walked with even steps.
Eldest Young Master!

He… When did he emerge from closed door cultivation in the Ancestral House?

The heart of Manager Wu that knelt on the floor couldn’t help but go cold, and was even
more afraid of raising his head as he knelt there.

This person was precisely the person reputed to be the Li Clan’s genius figure that was
rarely seen in a thousand years — Li Huai!

He started cultivating at the age of three, then advanced to the Congenital Realm at the age
of nine, and attained the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm at the age of 13. After
that, he went into closed door cultivation in the Ancestral House for four years. At this
moment, since he’d emerged from his closed door cultivation, he’d surely had already
established his Dao Foundation in one go to step into the Violet Palace Realm!

The rage in the hearts of the people present instantly vanished when they saw the person
was Li Huai, and the elders all revealed slight smiles. In their hearts, Li Huai who was like
a favored genius of the gods had already possessed the qualification to participate in the
clan’s discussions in the main hall.

“Father.” Li Huai lightly nodded to Li Yizhen, then he sat down at the side, seeming
completely indifferent.

A burst of gratification and pride arose within Li Yizhen’s heart. With such a son, the Li
Clan’s glorious future was not far off from being realized!

“Old Freak Violet Rhino was killed by that Chen Clan trash as well? Looks like this kid has
grown!” Li Fengtu glanced at the corpse on the ground and his voice revealed a trace of
astonishment.

Manager Wu who knelt on the ground said hurriedly, “Grand Elder really has eyes filled
with wisdom. According to this old servant’s observation, not only has the qi refinement
cultivation of that kid attained an extremely high level, but he’s also cultivated a profound
body refinement technique that has already advanced to the Congenital Realm. If he isn’t
killed as soon as possible, this kid will surely become a great calamity to our Li Clan.”

Congenital Realm in body refinement?

As soon as this was spoken, everyone present revealed a trace of astonishment. Among
cultivators of the same cultivation, the school of body refinement crushed all the cultivators
of the school of qi refinement, whereas within Pine Mist City, although it was rare to see
body refiners advancing to the Congenital Realm, their might was something no one dared
look down upon.
“I’ll go kill him right now!” Li Huai who sat there without moving suddenly spoke out, and
heavy killing intent was contained between his handsome brows, seeming to be extremely
repulsed and disgusted by Chen Xi’s growth.

Li Huai’s reaction seemed to have been within the expectations of everyone since a long
time ago, and Li Yizhen hurriedly said when he heard this, “Huai, calm down. Chen Xi’s
marriage contract with the Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan has already been destroyed. No
matter how he improves, it would still be absolutely impossible for him to marry Miss Su
Jiao.”

“Father, the Su Clan had once promised us that the Su Clan’s Patriarch would agree to
marry Su Jiao to me on the condition that Chen Xi’s cultivation is crippled and we pay the
price of humiliating Chen Xi to death. Now that this kid has grown successfully, if we still
don’t take any action, I’m afraid it will be too late.” Li Huai who had an icy cold and
indifferent disposition seemed to have become a normal person when he spoke about this
marriage that hadn’t been concluded.

“Huai is right, now that we can already be sure that the Nether Enlightenment Token has
fallen into Chen Xi’s possession, since it’s like this, we should take action as soon as
possible.”

Grand Elder Li Fengtu pondered slightly then slowly said, “Manager Wu, where does this
kid live now?”

“Clear Stream Restaurant.”

Manager Wu hurriedly replied, “Since the assassination failed last month, that kid seemed
to have noticed it was not safe and has stayed in the Clear Stream Restaurant ever since.”

“Clear Stream Restaurant? Hmph! It’s only a lousy restaurant that has good relations with
the General’s Estate. Yizhen, arrange for some people to capture that kid and bring him
back here tonight. Kill anyone that dares obstruct you!”

Li Fengtu coldly snorted, then slowly said, “I want to let everyone within Pine Mist City
know that death is the only end for someone who offends my Li Clan.”

“Don’t worry Grand Elder, I guarantee to complete this mission!” Li Yizhen respectfully
accepted the orders.

“Du Qingxi isn’t so easily bullied.” Right at this moment, a voice that was pleasing to the
ear the chime of a bell which was accompanied by a delicate fragrance floated in from
outside the main hall, seeming to give one an image of a delicate and graceful woman, and
this caused the expression of everyone within the entire main hall to go grim.

Although the expression of the Grand Elder, Li Fengtu, didn’t change, but shock had arisen
within his heart. Who? There was actually someone who was able to conceal themselves
while eavesdropping from outside the main hall under my nose? What sort of level has this
person’s cultivation attained? 

Chapter 32 - Su Jiao

The answer was quickly known.

Under the gazes of everyone present, a young girl clad in an azure dress had a calm
expression as she walked in with even steps.

She was comely with lovely hair that was fluffy like clouds, her sweet and charming oval
shaped face was slightly raised, and her indifferent expression revealed a trace of arrogance
that was unable to be concealed.

Li Huai was the first to recover from his shock when he saw this young girl clad in an azure
dress, and abruptly stood up as he said in pleasant surprise, “Miss Su!”

At this moment, the other people present all recognized the identity of this young girl clad
in an azure dress. Some of them were excited, some surprised, and some instead lightly
frowned.

“Dragon Lake City’s Su Jiao pays her respect to all the uncles present here.” The young girl
clad in an azure dress slightly bowed as she spoke in a pleasant voice.

The Li Clan elders recovered from their shock and all held smiles on their faces as they
greeted her. After Su Jiao took her seat, the Grand Elder, Li Fengtu, suddenly asked, “Little
Jiao, who’s this Du Qingxi you mentioned earlier?”

“It’s naturally the owner of Clear Stream Restaurant.” Su Jiao lightly smiled then sighed,
“She’s a favored genius of the gods that’s famous within Dragon Lake City and the
precious daughter of the Du Clan’s Patriarch. Even I don’t dare offend her lightly.”

What!?

The owner behind the scenes of the Clear Stream Restaurant is actually the Eldest Young
Miss of the Dragon Lake City’s Du Clan?

Everyone present was shocked.

Dragon Lake City was the heart of the southern territory that covered an area of 500,000
km, and was akin to a capital city. Practically all the great clans and great sects that could
be considered to possess terrifying strength within the entire southern territory were all
situated there.
Among the numerous great powers, the eight great sects, the three great institutions, and the
six great clans stood out exceptionally. The strengths of these great powers, and the
abundance of their hidden resources and reserves were something that ordinary people were
completely unable to imagine.

The Su Clan that Su Jiao was born in, and the Du Clan that Du Qingxi was born in, were
both one of the six great clans in Dragon Lake City. Although the Li Clan domineered in
Pine Mist City, when faced with this little girl, Su Jiao, that came from one of the six great
clans of Dragon Lake City, they still had to maintain sufficient respect. This was the
disparity of strength and hidden resources and reserves between their clans!

Dammit!

If it wasn’t for the arrival of Su Jiao, my Li Clan nearly incurred a monstrous

calamity… Li Fengtu felt a burst of extreme fear when he thought of the terrifying
background of Du Qingxi.

“Uncles, all of you don’t have to worry, and you don’t have to make a move against a piece
of trash from a shattered family anymore. According to my knowledge, Du Qingxi seems to
want to foster him into a spirit chef and take him into the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain
trials. At that time, I’ll go in and seize the Nether Enlightenment Token from him.”

Su Jiao’s expression was calm and indifferent, as if she was speaking of an insignificant
matter, then she lightly smiled and said, “I want to see what ability this fellow who was
betrothed to me since childhood actually has.”

“Miss Su, since you’ve come to Pine Mist City, then as the host, I’ll accompany you to
there.” Li Huai said in a clear voice, and his eyes emitted undisguised and dense passion.

“Then I’ll be troubling you.” Su Jiao smiled as she nodded with an expression that was
indifferent as before, and what she actually thought in her heart was unable to be perceived.

Three months rushed by.

Chen Xi sat on the floor and slowly opened a book.

The book recorded his cultivation experience and the changes in his state of mind over the
past three months. He’d started writing down his gains in cultivation every day since that
day he killed the two-headed Violet Rhino greater demon.

The reason he did so was something that Chen Xi couldn’t explain. It seemed to be because
leaving his job of talisman crafting that he’d devoted himself to for four years had caused
him to feel difficulty to adapt to it, so he kept wanting to pick up his talisman brush and
arbitrarily draw and write for some time.
Actually, Chen Xi knew himself, that he still loved crafting talismans extremely. He loved
the patterns of the talisman markings that he drew himself; and he loved the path of the
talisman markings that were fine and profound, and were filled with beauty.

Now, all this instead appeared in the form of words in the book, and it recorded every little
bit of the things on his mind that he wasn’t willing to pour out to another.

I’m extremely happy! Senior Ji Yu commended me for my marvelously swift advancement.

Actually, I know, if it wasn’t for Senior Ji Yu’s guidance, it would be absolutely impossible
for me to attain the advanced-stage in the Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps.

Tonight, when I cultivated the Chaotic Windsplit Sword Technique, I failed to grasp its
essence and was unable to breakthrough to the advanced-stage after a long time. I felt
extremely vexed and sat at the river bank as I stared on blankly. I recalled Chen Hao still
being steadfast and relentless as he practiced his swordsmanship with his left hand. What
qualification do I have to flinch and be vexed?

I’ve finally become a 2 leaf spirit chef. Qiao Nan and Pei Pei both commended me as a
genius of the Culinary Dao. Old man Ma instead expressed strong disagreement. He said
he’s afraid he’d spoil me, and it was harmful to my growth… Haha! Actually, even though
old man Ma’s temper is strange, but his disposition is still quite cute.

Deep in the night, as I roamed in the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area, I encountered a
Congenital Realm Divine Beast, Herculean Yellow Ape. Its skin was like steel that was
difficult to be injured by swords and sabers; its speed was like lightning, and its strength
was boundless. Seeing myself unable to flee, I resolutely rose to battle. I was only able to
penetrate its throat with my sword technique when my True Essence was exhausted and my
body was heavily injured, and killed it on the spot. After experiencing this desperate life
and death battle, the Grand Collapsing Fist finally advanced to the third level ‘collapsing
a rock into needles’ and my sword technique advanced to the advanced-stage together with
it. Truly worthy of congratulations. Senior Ji Yu joked that we should toast to it!

As he flipped through the pages, he seemed to be able to see his emotion at that time, and
the corners of Chen Xi’s mouth couldn’t help but curl into a slight smile.

Old man Ma pushed upon the door and entered, and said in surprise, “Eh, you’re actually
able to smile, kid?”

In his impression, Chen Xi was indeed like his nickname, Deadpan Chen, as his expression
always remained without change. At this moment, when he saw the smile flash in the
corners of Chen Xi’s mouth, he couldn’t help but be extremely surprised.

Chen Xi closed the book and asked, “I have to start training in the 3 leaf spirit chef culinary
arts?”
“You haven’t advanced to the Violet Palace Realm. You won’t improve much if you learn
it now.” Old man Ma shook his head, then said, “I came here this time to let you know that
Boss Du had something to discuss with you later.”

As he spoke, old man Ma noticed the jade slip by Chen Xi’s side with a glance, then picked
it up to look, and he couldn’t help but be astonished. “Chaotic Windsplit Sword
Technique?”

“Yes.” Chen Xi nodded.

There were 3,000 spirit crystals stored within the storage ring he obtain from killing the
Violet Rhino greater demon. Two months ago, he’d taken out 500 spirit crystals and
entrusted it to Pei Pei to buy this Chaotic Windsplit Sword Technique in the market.

The Chaotic Windsplit Sword Technique was considered to be a treasure amongst the
intermediate-grade martial skill. The sword moves were famous for being swift and fierce
like an agile venomous serpent and fluttering like the wind. After being personally
improved by the spirit of the Manor, Ji Yu, the mere six sword moves had been completely
changed, and its grade had become even better, causing Chen Xi to be extremely fond of it.

“Not bad, cultivating some sword techniques can be used to protect yourself.”

Old man Ma coughed dryly. “But Chen, I think your mind ought to be placed on the
Culinary Dao. A youth who possess natural talent in the Culinary Dao like you is
completely capable of attaining the highest level of a spirit chef, and shocking the entire
Darchu Dynasty with his name. At that time, even King Chu would invite you to be his
personal spirit chef.”

Old man Ma drew an attractive pie that was sufficient to excite any spirit chef, but Chen Xi
was instead indifferent to it, because he had too many things he wanted to do and it was
completely impossible for him to be a spirit chef forever.

“Alas, you properly think it over by yourself, I won’t force you. But if you have the chance,
go participate in the spirit chef ranking competition that’s held in the Darchu Dynasty once
every 10 years. Take it as fulfilling a wish of mine, how about it?”

Old man Ma patted Chen Xi on the shoulder as his face revealed a rare trace of nervousness
and anticipation.

Perhaps, this is the long-cherished wish of old man Ma in his lifetime? This caused Chen
Xi to recall his own grandfather. Even before his death, the old man yearned to be able to
rebuild the Chen Clan, but unfortunately, he was killed before he could realize his wish…

Chen Xi’s felt sad in his heart when he thought of this, and he said with a staunch
expression, “I promise you!”
Old man Ma was stunned, and after a while, he silently turned around and left. Only when
he walked out of the room did he roar out in laughter, and his low and hoarse voice
revealed boundless gratification and happiness.

If grandfather was still alive and he saw my cultivation advancing by leaps and bounds, he
would happily roar in laughter like old man Ma right?

Chen Xi shook his head and tried hard to disperse the unrealistic thoughts in his mind, then
he picked up the talisman brush and started writing something on a piece of blank paper.

Gulp gulp~

Ji Yu suddenly appeared within the Quiet Room, and he picked up the bottle gourd before
sipping a few mouthfuls of wine, then he asked, “Finished writing?”

“Yes,” said Chen Xi, and he passed over the paper that was filled with lines of rough
writing.

The words on the paper were divided into 4 categories.

The first category, cultivation section, Perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm in qi

refining and 5th level of the Congenital Realm in body refining.

The second category, martial skills section. Grand Collapsing Fist has attained perfection
in the unity-stage. Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps has attained the advanced-stage.
Chaotic Windsplit Sword Technique has attained the advanced stage.

The third category, weapons section. Azurebolt Sword, an ungraded Magic Treasure.

The fourth category, self-assessment of combat strength: Unmatched below the Violet
Palace realm, however, the probability of winning when challenging an opponent with a
cultivation that exceeds mine isn’t great.

From the day he started cultivating in his movement technique and sword technique, Ji Yu
had requested that he take a day’s worth of time out for self-reflection by comprehending
the changes in his strength and summarizing his combat experience.

According to Ji Yu: It’s insufficient to talk about advancement without bitter cultivation;
and without self-reflection, how could he achieve great things?

Chen Xi was extremely fond of this practice, as only by being adept in summarizing
combat experience and conducting self-reflection could he be able to rectify his flaws and
tread more steadily and swiftly on the path of cultivation. Moreover, these papers that he’d
written his self-reflection on were kept by him like treasures and were compiled into a book
that was named the Self-Reflection Diary.
Ji Yu ceased reading and made no comment, then he picked up the brush and added on a
line of words on the upper side of the paper. “Soul, Perception Force stage.”

Chen Xi took the paper in his hands and read it, and he couldn’t help but be stunned.

According to his knowledge, the soul could be considered as the most mysterious existence
in a person’s body. The energy of the soul was profound and difficult to comprehend, and it
could be roughly divided into 5 stages, namely the Perception, Perception Force, Spiritual
Perception, Divine Perception, and Divine Sense stages.

However, the differentiation of soul energy wasn’t strict. Some people were born with
strong souls and were able to condense Perception Force when they stepped into the
Congenital Realm, whereas the energy of the souls of some people had only formed into
Perception when they stepped into the Violet Palace Realm.

At the heart of the matter, this disparity was mostly because of the lack of a soul
visualization technique.

Without a visualization technique, one was unable to cultivate the soul and could only
allow the soul to advance as their own cultivation advanced. It was precisely because of this
that within the cultivation world, there was a centralized understanding that said Congenital
Realm cultivators possessed Perception, Violet Palace Realm cultivators possessed
Perception Force, Golden Hall Realm cultivators possessed Spiritual Perception, Golden
Core Realm cultivators possessed Divine Perception, and cultivators at the Rebirth Realm
or above possessed Divine Sense.

“The wonders of the soul is far from being as simple as you think. You have been
visualizing the True Body Brand that my Master left behind and perhaps you’ve already
noticed, the strength of the soul is not only able to ceaselessly strengthen your
comprehension ability, but it’s similarly able to be reflected in your cultivation and martial
skills.”

Ji Yu lazily lay on the rattan chair as he explained in a light voice. “If it wasn’t for your
strong soul, it would be absolutely impossible for you to cultivate the Grand Collapsing Fist
to the unity-stage. Similarly, besides diligent and bitter cultivating, your strong soul played
an immeasurable role in your movement technique and sword technique’s swift
improvement.”

Actually, Chen Xi had already vaguely become aware of the greatness of the soul’s strength
from talisman crafting and from his culinary arts. At this moment, when he heard Ji Yu’s
explanation, he instantly felt enlightened.

“Looks like I have to pay even more attention to the cultivation of the soul in the future…”
Chen Xi muttered, then raised his head, but noticed that Ji Yu’s figure had vanished, and he
was still stunned by this when he heard sounds of the door-knocking coming from outside
the room.
“Chen Xi, the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials is beginning three days from now.
Come out, I have something to discuss with you.”
Chapter 33 - Disciple of Dragon Lake City

It was Du Qingxi who’d come. She seemed gentle and graceful in the black dress she wore
that revealed the outline and curves of her body. She stood there beautifully outside the
door with black hair that was worn in a bun, and wore no makeup, seeming to carry a type
of icy cold and pure sense of beauty.

“Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials?” Chen Xi was extremely bewildered as he gazed
at Du Qingxi who was outside the door. He’d grown up in Pine Mist City and he naturally
knew everything about the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials.

Every three years, a bizarre space with an extremely unfavorable environment would
appear within the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range.

Baleful qi billowed within the space that was devoid of any plants; a type of ash-grey gale
blew within it all year long, and whether it was night and day couldn’t be discerned within
the space. Most importantly, the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain’s spirit energy of
heaven and earth had dried up, it was like an abandoned land that was devoid of life. This
space was simply an existence that was like hell to cultivators who breathed the spirit
energy of the heaven and earth!

However, after a thousand years of research and searching, people had a new understanding
of the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.

This space did indeed have no living creature, yet there existed a type of ferocious and
bloodthirsty baleful beast with a strength that had roughly attained the perfection-stage of
the Congenital Realm. Moreover, there was a type of treasure called a baleful pearl that was
concealed within the body of a baleful beast. Even though its usage was unknown, its value
was extremely shocking.

There was once a cultivator who took a baleful pearl and headed to the capital of Darchu
Dynasty, Silken City, that was 5 million km away, and a baleful pearl actually sold for a
whopping price of 100 spirit crystals!

This incident instantly caused a stir in Pine Mist City when the news spread back. So when
the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain appeared once again, practically all the cultivators in
Pine Mist City swarmed over. The weird thing was that only Postnatal Realm and
Congenital Realm cultivators could safely enter, and other cultivators would be obstructed
by a shapeless force the moment they entered the borders of the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain.

It was precisely because of this that the various institutions and clans within Pine Mist City
jointly launched the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials activity with the General’s
Estate. They encouraged the younger generation of Pine Mist City who possessed a
cultivation at the Congenital Realm to participate in the trials.
On one hand they can obtain baleful pearls, and on the other hand the cultivators could
temper their survival ability and live combat skills in the unfavorable environment of the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.

Most importantly, numerous clans and institution used the number of baleful pearls
obtained as a standard to test their disciples. Not only would those who obtained a high
amount of baleful pearls be able to become a core disciple and enjoy resources that
ordinary disciples were unable to hope for, they would also be able to obtain a considerable
amount of wealth to help with their expenses.

Moreover, the General’s Estate would send out an invitation to the top three people who
obtained the most baleful pearls during the trial and invite them to enter the southern
territory’s Dragon Lake City’s Darchu Soulguard’s branch!

The Darchu Soulguard was an organization under the command of the Darchu Dynasty. In
terms of how terrifying its strength was, there were rarely any organizations that could
compare to it within the entire territory of the Darchu Dynasty. Of course, an invitation was
only an invitation, and if one wanted to join the Darchu Soulguard branch in Dragon Lake
City, one would still have to pass numerous tests that were extremely harsh. The difficulty
of the test was not much different from the test to enter an extremely large sect.

“Baleful qi billows within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain and its spirit energy is
exhausted. Moreover there are numerous baleful beasts there, so staying within the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain would be accompanied by continuous combat. Besides
bringing along large amounts of spirit stones and medicinal pills, there’s no other way for
cultivators to survive within.”

Du Qingxi’s words were succinct and chilly, like her disposition that was icy cold like
snow, and it carried with it a trace of being beyond question as she slowly said, “I came
looking for you for the sake of entering the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain to cook for
me. I’ve already prepared the cooking utensils and ingredients for you. Now I’ll take you to
see two people.”

“Wait! When did I agree to go to the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain?” Chen Xi frowned
as he asked. He extremely disliked the feeling of being ordered around.

Du Qingxi said as a matter of course, “You’re a spirit chef apprentice employed by Clear
Stream Restaurant, this is one of your duties.”

“But, why me?” Chen Xi continued to question.

“You’re the disciple of old man Ma, and your cultivation is already sufficient to enter the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. Who else can satisfy this condition besides you?”
Du Qingxi seemed to be slightly displeased from being questioned and her beautiful brows
frowned. “Stop talking nonsense. I won’t treat you unfairly after we return from the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.”

As she spoke, she turned around and walked off, seeming to be disinclined to explain
another word to Chen Xi.

“Forget it, I’ll just make the trip. I’ve wanted to experience how the Southern Barbaric
Nether Domain is like since a long time ago as well.” Chen Xi thought for a moment and
followed her.

Du Qingxi was correct, before he left Pine Mist City, he was still a member of Clear Stream
Restaurant. Since he’d taken a wage from her, he naturally ought to undertake the
corresponding duties.

Most importantly, practically every day during these past few months, he’d trained his
culinary arts behind closed doors within the Quiet Room, and the value of the ingredients
he’d wasted was sufficient to be described as an astronomical figure. Whereas Du Qingxi
had never once asked for repayment from him, and this caused Chen Xi to feel slightly
embarrassed. This was probably how it felt to be helpless against someone who you’d
accepted and received something from.

The rear courtyard of Clear Stream Restaurant had always been the place Du Qingxi
cultivated behind closed doors, and its environment was quiet and refined. Ordinarily,
besides some close servants, there was rarely anyone who was able to step foot here.

When Du Qingxi brought Chen Xi into the courtyard, there were precisely two young men
waiting there.

“He’s Duanmu Ze from the Dragon Lake City’s Duanmu Clan.” Du Qingxi pointed at the
white clothed man as she introduced him briefly and to the point.

Chen Xi raised his eyes to gaze over and he couldn’t help but be stunned.

Duanmu Ze was absolutely a man that was handsome, noble, elegant, and had a tall figure.
He wore clothes that were whiter than snow and had a graceful bearing. His thin lips lightly
puckered and his serious face carried a trace of a smile that was sufficient to cause war
among millions of young women.

However, Chen Xi didn’t care about this, as what he cared about was the clan behind
Duanmu Ze.
Even though Du Qingxi introduced him in an extremely casual manner, how could Chen Xi
not have heard of the names of the eight great sects, three great institutions, and six great
clans that’s discussed animatedly everywhere in the city?

All these powers had deep hidden resources and reserves, and the level of their ancientness
could be traced back to over 10,000 years ago. They were far from something a newly
developing clan in Pine Mist City like the Li Clan could compare to.

The Duanmu Clan was one of the six great clans, so Chen Xi naturally felt slightly
surprised when facing a Duanmu Clan disciple like Duanmu Ze. He’s handsome and
energetic and is of good birth, this fellow is presumably extremely famous in Dragon Lake
City, right?

“Qingxi, doesn’t this person you found seems to be slightly unreliable?” Duanmu Ze raised
his eyes and glanced at Chen Xi, and his brows couldn’t help but slightly frown as he spoke
with a flat tone that carried a slight oppressive tone with it. He truly couldn’t understand
why Du Qingxi would find a spirit chef apprentice to join their ranks.

In the eyes of Duanmu Ze who was born in a wealthy and influential great clan, even
though the culinary arts of spirit chefs were great, chefs were only chefs in the end. Their
status was essentially still of the same class as lowly servants, how could Chen Xi mix with
himself and the others?

It was precisely because of this that even though Du Qingxi had instructed him about this
matter earlier, and he’d agreed to not fuss about it. But when he really saw Chen Xi,
Duanmu Ze still felt extremely displeased in his heart, as if Chen Xi’s appearance brought
disgrace to his status.

A mere few words caused Chen Xi’s impression of Duanmu Ze to become extremely
terrible, and he didn’t care to greet and chat with Duanmu Ze. On the contrary, he instead
hoped that Du Qingxi would say that he’s unreliable as well. In this way, he could just
leave and he wouldn’t have to stay with this guy who was proud as a peacock.

However regrettably, Du Qingxi didn’t act in this way, and she even didn’t pay any
attention to Duanmu Ze. Instead, her gaze moved and she pointed at the other young man
before continuing to introduce. “Song Lin, from the Dragon Lake City’s Song Clan.”

Song Lin actually had a rather handsome appearance, but he obviously was an extremely
indolent fellow. He had puffy hair and was slovenly dressed, and his eyes were slightly
narrowed. His entire body seemed as if it had fallen apart as he lazily leaned on a large tree
within the courtyard with a drowsy look.

Song Lin weakly waved his hand towards Chen Xi when he heard Du Qingxi introducing
him, then muttered, “Oh, I’ve heard Qingxi talk about you, but wait for me to finish
sleeping, then we can chat properly…” As he spoke, his head kept drooping and he once
again entered dreamland.
As expected, the clan behind this Song Lin is similarly one of the six great clans.

As he thought about this, Chen Xi’s heart jerked as he suddenly realized something, there
was also a Du Clan amongst the six great clans, and Du Qingxi wouldn’t be a Du Clan
disciple as well, right?

There was an extremely high probability for this.

Birds of a feather flock together. Looking at the attitude Du Qingxi had when facing
Duanmu Ze and Song Lin, they were obviously people of the same kind, but only their
characters were different.

It’s only an extremely ordinary Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials, yet it attracted
the participation of three disciples of the Dragon Lake City’s great clans. Could it be that
there’s some secret concealed within?

Chen Xi wondered in his heart and he suddenly felt that his trip to the Southern Barbaric
Nether Domain this time seemed to not be as simple as he had imagined.

“Qingxi, you really want to take him along?”

Duanmu Ze couldn’t help but be infuriated in his heart when he saw Du Qingxi ignore him,
but his face still had a magnanimous appearance as he frowned and said, “I heard demon
beasts roam freely within the Southern Barbaric Mountain range, and it’s full of danger. If
by any chance we encounter some unforeseen event, then wouldn’t it be a harm to his life?”

Chen Xi kept silent, but he couldn’t help but sigh in his heart. If you want to drive me out,
then speak directly. Why do you have to find such a forced and laughable reason? These
disciples of great clans are really so hypocritical.

“Are you finished?” Du Qingxi said with an expressionless face.

Duanmu Ze’s expression froze, then he had a serious expression as he said, “Qingxi, I’m
thinking for him.”

“If you’re finished, then let’s go.” Du Qingxi was still completely indifferent as she turned
and left.

Chen Xi followed her when he saw this, as he wasn’t willing to stay together with Duanmu
Ze. Who knew what sort of displeasing words this fellow would say in his anger?

The light smile that hung on the corners of Duanmu Ze’s mouth instantly vanished when he
saw the two of them leave the courtyard successively, and his expression became unusually
unsightly.

“Oh, let’s go as well.” Song Lin rubbed his sleepy eyes as he weakly yawned.
I won’t let that kid off just like this. Duanmu Ze’s face sank and forced out a line of words
from the cracks in his teeth. “Let me see if Du Qingxi will turn against me for the sake of a
lowly servant!”
Chapter 34 - Icetail Bee

Every three years, the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain would appear within the Southern
Barbaric Forbidden Area.

If one wanted to the find the entrance to the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, then one
must traverse through vast expanses of forests that demon beasts roamed in and enter the
forbidden area. There was even a high probability that one would encounter a greater
demon that stayed within, thus it could be said that killing intent was concealed at every
corner and it was extremely dangerous.

Now, along with the upcoming appearance of the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, the
pedestrian traffic on the bustling streets of Pine Mist City was obviously a few times busier
than before, and they crowded and bustled like a tide that seemed incomparably clamorous.

“Laurel City, Jade City, Sandrop City… It seems that the cultivators from all the cities in
the southern territory have appeared. The Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials this time
is simply an unprecedentedly grand occasion!”

“Well, who said it wasn’t? I wonder what the General’s Estate was thinking, actually tacitly
consenting to cultivators from outside the city being able to participate. Not to mention
anything else, but solely for the sake of fighting for the shockingly valuable baleful pearls,
the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials this time will absolutely not be peaceful.”

“That’s true. But I heard people saying that most people seem to not have come solely for
the sake of the baleful pearls. They seem to want to seek some sort of sword immortal’s
abode within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. I wonder if it’s true or not?”

“Sword immortal’s abode? Pfft! Stop joking! The spirit energy in the Southern Barbaric
Nether Domain is exhausted and baleful qi billows in the sky. Which sword immortal
would be so bored as to build his abode there?”

All along the way, various discussions filled the streets, extremely alike to the strange
atmosphere when a storm is brewing.

“The Southern Barbaric Nether Domain will appear tomorrow, and the entrance will only
be open for six hours. So, we must hurry there overnight.”

Du Qingxi took out a jade-slip map when they walked up before the Southern Barbaric
Mountain Range, then she briefly looked through it before saying with a serious expression,
“Everyone, be careful. Demon beasts roam about within the Southern Barbaric Mountain
Range at night and it’s extremely dangerous. Don’t let your guard down.”
“Don’t worry, Qingxi. Even if we encounter a Violet Palace Realm greater demon, the
strength of the three of us would be sufficient to kill it.” Duanmu Ze lightly smiled as he
spoke with a casual tone as if he was speaking of an extremely simple matter.

Kill a Violet Palace Realm greater demon?

Chen Xi’s heart shook, since this fellow dared speak so highly, his strength should have
surely already advanced to the Violet Palace Realm, and Du Qingxi and Song Lin would
presumably be no different.

But, aren’t Violet Palace Realm cultivators unable to enter the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain? Perhaps, they have a method to enter within their possession…

This question related to certain secrets and Chen Xi wasn’t familiar with the three of them.
So, it wasn’t good for him to inquire further and he could only conceal it within his heart.

Darkness enveloped the sky and scattered stars studded the sky.

Looking down from the sky, countless streams of people were like rows upon rows of ants
as they poured towards the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range, and a rough estimate put
them at not less than 10,000 people.

“Eh, I’m not seeing things right? Duanmu Ze who’s reputed to be a genius level figure in
the Dragon Lake City’s younger generation had actually come as well?”

“You aren’t mistaken, that person is definitely Duanmu Ze. He supposedly already
possesses a cultivation at the 4th star Violet Palace Realm, and he might become the next
successor of the Duanmu Clan.”

“Wow! So he’s the Duanmu Ze of my dreams. Sure enough, he’s as handsome and
extraordinary as the rumors say, simply too handsome!”

Right when Chen Xi’s group of four intended to enter the mountain, someone nearby
recognized Duanmu Ze and it instantly caused a wave of praise and surprised exclamations.

Duanmu Ze’s handsome face revealed a slight smile with a trace of complacency. He’d
been accustomed to seeing such a scene in Dragon Lake City since long ago, so he didn’t
think anything of it and smiled to Du Qingxi who was beside him. “I never expected to be
recognized so quickly, these people really have nothing better to do.”

“Since they have nothing better to do, then let’s leave quickly,” said Du Qingxi with her
regular expression that was frosty like snow, as if everything in the surroundings were
unable to arouse her interest.
Duanmu Ze was stunned, then he shook his head and smiled, yet in his heart he was
secretly extremely furious. This Du Clan little girl is too difficult to capture, could it be
that she must drive me to use force?

He’d been chasing afar Du Qingxi all along, but Du Qingxi’s disposition was too cold, and
he’d tried many different methods that all ended in failure.

To a disciple of a well-known clan like him, he could obtain numerous beautiful women if
he wanted, but in the eyes of Duanmu Ze, those women were all just ordinary women.
Within the entire Dragon Lake City, only a few people were worthy of him, and Du Qingxi
who was born of the Du Clan was undoubtedly one of them.

Du Qingxi’s appearance was extremely beautiful and she was exceedingly intelligent. Most
importantly, she was the only daughter of the Du Clan’s Patriarch. If he were to marry her,
then not only would he obtain a beauty, but he would also be able to obtain the support of
the Du Clan, and to Duanmu Ze, this was the result he wanted the most.

Because becoming the son-in-law of the Du Clan was equivalent to obtaining the support of
the entire Du Clan, and relying on this assistance, Duanmu Ze had complete confidence in
being able to ascend the position of Patriarch of the Duanmu Clan.

So, although he took a blow from Du Qingxi’s cold attitude now, Duanmu Ze would
absolutely not put out his thoughts of going after Du Qingxi because of this.

But he was still slightly displeased in his heart, especially because Chen Xi was watching
nearby.

This kid is probably laughing to himself that I think too highly of myself right?

Duanmu Ze glanced at Chen Xi but noticed that this fellow was absent-minded, with an
appearance that he was daydreaming, and completely gave Duanmu Ze no opportunity to
find fault with him. For a time, Duanmu Ze gnashed his teeth in hatred and thought
inwardly, Once we enter the mountain forest, I’ll fucking find an opportunity to properly
deal with you, lowly servant!

The night grew darker and darker, like black ink had enveloped the entire Southern
Barbaric Mountain Range. Waves of terrifying beast roars sounded from afar, adding an
aura of slaughter that caused one’s heart to palpitate.

When faced with this scene, even Song Lin whose eyes were heavy with sleep all the way
couldn’t help but open, and his gaze was shining with unusual brightness.

“Let me warn you. If you dare be a hindrance to us, then no matter what Du Qingxi thinks,
I’ll surely properly teach you a lesson first.” A strand of a voice transmission entered into
his ears, and Chen Xi raised his eyes to look over. Chen Xi saw Duanmu Ze looking over
with a light smile on his face as if the words from before didn’t originate from him at all.
When faced with this sort of disdainful and threatening provocation, Chen Xi chose to
directly disregard it.

A hindrance?

At that time, I wonder who will be the hindrance.

When he recalled the scene of him hunting those ferocious and crafty demon beasts every
night for the past three months, Chen Xi was instead filled with pity towards Duanmu Ze.
So what if you’re a Violet Palace Realm cultivator? Those demon beasts aren’t weak, and
they’re all sinister and ruthless with a myriad of methods of attack…

After they entered the mountain, Duanmu Ze led the group for the sake of showing his
gentlemanliness. His white clothes fluttered as he walked forward with a sword in his
grasp, and coupled with that handsome and refined smile of his, he indeed was able to
arouse adoration in most girls.

Du Qingxi didn’t object to it, Song Lin had always sleepily and wearily followed at the
back of the group, and it was impossible that Chen Xi would seize the limelight from this
attention seeking Young Master.

So, all along the way, Duanmu Ze seemed to take himself to be the leading figure of the
group. Chen Xi had suggested he change the path many times but was flatly refused by
him, as according to the way he said it. “Even if there’s no path, sword cultivators must still
use the sword in their hand to carve out a path, and taking a detour isn’t the way a sword
cultivator does things…”

Chen Xi didn’t say anything further, as since someone wanted to suffer misfortune, then no
one would be able to stop the person.

After that, at a place in the forest that was luxuriant with flowers and trees, a swarm of
Icetail Wasps surged out as Chen Xi expected.

As a 4th star Violet Palace Realm sword cultivator, Duanmu Ze was naturally unafraid of
these little things, and he drew his sword right away. As sword lights splashed out, swift
and fierce sword qi seemed as if they were shot out from bows, and within a blink of an
eye, more than 100 Icetail Bees were instantly annihilated.

“So it’s a swarm of little bees, truly a disappointing opponent.” Duanmu Ze had a
complacent expression as he sighed with emotion. At the moment he intended to put away
his sword, his expression suddenly froze and his eyes revealed a sense of astonishment.

Numerous red and swollen lumps appeared on the skin of his face and hands, and his
handsome face even became like roasted pig head. It was so horrible that one could hardly
bear to look at it.
“Ah!” Duanmu Ze emitted a miserable shrill cry, as the severe itchiness on his skin that
was difficult to endure caused him to be unable to take care of his bearing, and his hands
fiercely scratched his face.

“What’s going on?” Du Qingxi was shocked inwardly, and she was extremely bewildered
in her heart when she saw Duanmu Ze scratching his itch in an unsightly manner.

“Oh, Brother Duanmu, are you utilizing monkey boxing?” Song Lin opened up his drowsy
eyes and muttered, “I remember that you hate monkey boxing the most. You said that its
posture is too ugly and it affects aesthetics and bearing.”

“Even though he killed the Icetail Bees, his face and hands were stung by the stingers of the
Icetail Bees. That’s why it’s so itchy and unbearable.” Chen Xi frowned as he spoke, yet in
his heart, he was instead extremely pleased.

These Icetail Bees were the size of a thumb and were fully black. Their stingers were fine
like the hair of a cow and crystal clear. When the stinger plunged into the skin of a person,
it was like ice merging into water and was impossible to guard against. Moreover, the
poison would instantly invade the blood and cause red swellings that were itchy and
unbearable to appear on the skin.

“Since you knew, then why didn’t you say so earlier?” Du Qingxi coldly glanced over and
spoke with a slight blaming tone.

“I advised him, but he said that as a sword cultivator, he must use the sword in his hand…”

Not waiting for Chen Xi to finish, the far away Duanmu Ze who was scratching his itch
suddenly roared. "Kid, shut up!”

“Let’s go, I’m alright.” Duanmu Ze breathed heavily for a while, then forcefully endured
the itchiness on his body as he stood up, and his body trembled as he walked forward.

“Alas, Brother Duanmu cares about bearing the most. In Dragon Lake City, Brother
Duanmu would undoubtedly be number one in terms of bearing. Now that his appearance
has become like this, he surely doesn’t feel well in his heart, right?” Song Lin lazily sighed,
and his gaze wittingly or unwittingly glanced at Chen Xi, then his eyes drooped as he once
again fell into a sleepy state.

“Oh, if I knew earlier that he was so afraid of itchiness, I ought to have advised him once
more, and all this wouldn’t have happened,” said Chen Xi with an innocent expression.

When this entered Duanmu Ze’s ears, it caused the malicious flames in his heart to rise
explosively. Especially when he thought of his unsightly manner fully entering Du Qingxi’s
eyes, he was angered to the point he spat out a mouthful of blood, and he roared in his
heart. Motherfucker! This fellow is surely doing it on purpose! He didn’t warn me properly
but is deliberately giving sarcastic remarks now! You just wait! I’ll surely fucking teach
you a lesson!

“Young Master Duanmu, there are still some demon beasts that can’t be considered to be
formidable ahead, should we take a detour?” Chen Xi seemed as if he’d been moved by
conscience and asked in concern.

Duanmu Ze’s body froze, then he replied fiercely, “Thank you, but there’s no need!”

As he spoke, seemingly for the sake of venting the rage in his heart, Duanmu Ze quickened
his pace. The sword in his hand ceaselessly waved about, and the vines and grass that
obstructed his way were instantly transformed into ash.

“You seem to be extremely familiar with this place?” Du Qingxi frowned as she asked.

Chen Xi nodded. “I’ve previously come here for a period of time.”

“Then why don’t you lead the way?” Du Qingxi questioned closely.

Chen Xi gazed at the far away Duanmu Ze and didn’t say anything, but what he meant was
thoroughly revealed.

“You lead the way after this.” Du Qingxi said with an irrebuttable tone.

“Okay!” Chen Xi nodded.

AH~

Right at this moment, Duanmu Ze’s sad and shrill scream once again sounded out from
afar, and his voice revealed boundless rage and terror, seeming to have encountered some
sort of terrifying thing.
Chapter 35 - Gather

This fellow has surely encountered the Bubble Rat swarm.

Chen Xi wasn’t surprised in the slightest when he heard Duanmu Ze’s shrill cry because
there was a soft bog just 33m ahead, and a swarm of rat type demon beasts that were the
size of a fist lived underground.

Bubble Rats moved beneath the ground with speeds that were swift like the wind, their
bodies were like blown up bubbles and which were filled with rotten smelling dark-green
poison. Although the toxicity wasn’t high, when spurted onto a person’s body, that rotten
stench was absolutely able to cause one to go mad.

Most importantly, Bubble Rats were extremely short tempered, and when they encountered
an enemy, these disgusting and ugly little things would collectively choose to self-explode.
The dark-green colored liquid that exploded out from their bellies was virtually like a
rainstorm that blotted out the sky and was impossible to avoid.

“This…” Du Qingxi simply couldn’t believe her eyes when she saw Duanmu Ze, he
seemed as if he’d been thrown into and soaked in a dye vat. His hair, skin, clothes that were
white like snow… they were all fully smeared with dark-green liquid, and he looked like an
extremely ugly toad demon.

If they hadn’t seen it with their own eyes, it was absolutely difficult to imagine how the
person before them was the handsome and refined Duanmu Ze who wore white clothes that
fluttered in the wind.

A gust of wind blew over, and a nauseating rotten stench instantly filled every corner of the
area.

“So disgusting.” Song Lin was suffocated by the rotten stench in the air to the point he was
completely devoid of sleepiness, and he covered his nose as he repeatedly moved back.

“He isn’t in danger, right?” Du Qingxi frowned and asked.

Chen Xi shook his head. “He’s fine, just a little smelly.”

Blargh~

Du Qingxiwas suffocated to the extent she nearly vomited, she didn’t hesitate as she moved
far off right away, then said, “Duanmu, quickly change your clothes and leave this place.”

“You all… How can you all be like this!?”

Duanmu Ze’s eyes opened wide as he looked at Du Qingxi and Song Lin who stayed far
away from him in dejection, and his voice revealed dense patheticness that made him seem
like an abandoned widow.

“Young Master Duanmu, I already warned you earlier, but you didn’t listen to me… Alas,
you should hurry up and change your clothes, it’s really extremely smelly.” Chen Xi shook
his head then turned around and left.

Duanmu Ze seemed as if he was struck by lightning, and he was stunned for a short
moment before he let out an exceedingly furious low howl.

Chen Xi, you absolutely did it on purpose, on purpose!

I’ll fucking kill you!

Duanmu Ze was angered to the point he started breathing heavily, but he nearly fainted at
the instant he smelt the stench on his body, and a wave of explosive rage once again broke
out in his heart as he completely hated Chen Xi to the bones.

When Duanmu Ze appeared once again, he’d already recovered his handsome appearance,
but his expression was extremely gloomy as he stared at Chen Xi with a murderous gaze.

It looks like I’ve already seriously offended this fellow, but so long as Du Qingxi is here, I
presume he wouldn’t dare secretly make a move against me. Chen Xi shook his head and
directly disregarded Duanmu Ze’s gaze as he walked forward.

Duanmu Ze was silent all along the way, and under Chen Xi’s lead, no other accidents
occurred again.

Du Qingxi followed from behind and the surprise in her heart grew deeper and deeper.
Along the way, they’d encountered some formidable demon beasts more than once, but
Chen Xi seemed as if he had foresight and would bring their group to carefully
circumnavigate around it to safely get by every time.

She had to admit that she’d indeed look down upon Chen Xi because it was occasionally
even difficult for her to notice those demon beasts that were adept in concealment.

Whereas in the heart of Duamu Ze, Chen Xi’s display of understanding the surrounding
environment like the back of his hand caused Duanmu Ze to deem that everything that
happened earlier was something Chen Xi intentionally did to cause him to make a fool of
himself. For a time, the hatred Duanmu Ze had towards Chen Xi was simply to the extent it
was like a deep ravine, and if it wasn’t for Du Qingxi being present, he would absolutely
kill Chen Xi at the first possible moment.
When daybreak was at hand, Chen Xi’s group had finally passed through the forest that was
like a screen of nature and entered into the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area to appear
before an enormous lake.

Chen Xi naturally recognized that this vast and boundless lake was called Spiritcave Lake,
as the first Congenital Realm greater demon he’d killed with his own two hands was
precisely the two-headed Violet Rhino that had cultivated for thousands of years and stayed
at the center of the lake.

At this moment, no less than tens of thousands of cultivators had already gathered by
Spiritcave Lake, and wherever his gaze went, it was dense with people. Noisy sounds of
discussion rose and fell, and it seemed to be extremely bustling.

“The entrance to the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain wouldn’t be atop Spiritcave Lake
right?” Chen Xi looked at the far away crowd and felt slightly surprised.

“You don’t know?” Du Qingxi seemed to be even more surprised than Chen Xi.

Chen Xi shook his head. “I’ve never participated in the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain
trials and I’ve never paid attention to the information about this.”

“Ha! As a disciple of Pine Mist City, you’ve actually never even participated in the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials. You’re really pitiable.” Duanmu Ze cut in with a
tone that revealed intense disdain.

Chen Zi glanced at the fellow then said indifferently, “Although I haven't entered the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain before, I understand how to traverse the southern
barbaric mountain forest.”

Understand how to traverse the southern barbaric mountain forest…

Duanmu Ze was stunned then he recalled his encounter with the Icetail Bees and Bubble
Rats. It was as if a scar in his heart was torn open, and his expression instantly became
extremely gloomy as he said word for word, “I hope your cultivation is as formidable as
your mouth, you’d better not die in the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.”

These words were equivalent to thoroughly and openly breaking the relations between him
and Chen Xi.

Du Qingxi frowned as she glanced at the two of them before saying coldly, “Enough! If the
two of you are still going to be like this when we enter the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain, then please leave now!”

Duanmu Ze curled his lips but said no more, he was obviously afraid Du Qingxi would
send him packing.
Chen Xi wished for nothing more than to leave, but when he saw Du Qingxi’s extremely
icy cold expression and recalled the three-year agreement he’d signed with her, he instead
hesitated to speak.

Their group hastened their pace and after tens of minutes, they’d appeared in the empty
space by Spiritcave Lake.

Only after they approached did Chen Xi notice that all these cultivators were mostly
gathered in groups of three or five, and they all held weapons in their embrace as they stood
there with vigilant expressions. Obviously, within the extremely dangerous Southern
Barbaric Nether Domain, although they were all competitors, for the sake preventing those
formidable demon beasts from rushing out, everyone took the same decision to gather
together.

After all, the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain hadn’t appeared yet, and it wasn’t the time
to openly offend each other to seize the baleful pearls.

The appearance of Chen Xi’s group attracted the attention of most of the people in the
surroundings. The reason was extremely simple, the handsome Duanmu Ze standing there
was like a flag. So long as it was a cultivator that had lived in Dragon Lake City, how
would they be unable to recognize that this young man of extraordinary bearing was the
outstanding figure from the Duanmu Clan’s younger generation, Duanmu Ze?

“So it’s Young Master Duanmu!”

“AH! Young Master Duanmu has come as well!”

“Young Master Duanmu, I never expected I would be able to see you here!”

All along the way, the sounds of greeting Duanmu Ze ceaselessly lingered in their ears, and
the gazes that originally held slight hostility to Chen Xi’s group had been withdrawn. The
name of the Duanmu Clan was so great that it could be considered as a colossus in the
entire southern territory, and ordinary cultivators didn’t have to courage to offend the
Duanmu Clan.

At this moment, Duanmu Ze’s face revealed a wisp of his usual slight smile that revealed
sufficient pride within his complacency, and relying on the blinding halo above his head,
their group of four smoothly picked an extremely good spot.

Chen Xi couldn’t help but sigh with emotion in his heart when he saw this. Just the name
of the clan is able to make such an effect. Those clans with ancient hidden resources and
reserves do indeed deserve their reputation for being able to survive until now.
Duanmu Ze’s mood seemed to be much better after being flattered by the surrounding
people, then he glanced at Chen Xi who sat cross-legged and said with a frown, “Hey!
You’re a spirit chef that’s really not up to standard, can’t you see that everyone’s walked
for an entire night?”

Chen Xi directly disregarded the fellow and looked at Du Qingxi. “Do you need to eat
something?”

Du Qingxi thought for a moment then nodded. When she walked out of the forest, she wore
a black veil on her head that was able to cut off being observed by the energy of the soul,
and it covered her appearance, causing others to be unable to see her expression.

Only now did Chen Xi stand up, he withdrew some ingredients from his storage ring before
igniting a spirit flame and started cooking.

This storage ring was given to him by Du Qingxi when they left Clear Stream Restaurant,
within it was an entire 330m of space that was piled with hills of ingredients. If they ate
sparingly, it would be sufficient for a few people to eat for two to three years.

Duanmu Ze didn’t mind in the slightest when being ignored by Chen Xi, as being able to
make Chen Xi cook under the gazes of everyone present had already achieved his goal.

He wanted everyone to know that Chen Xi was only a spirit chef of low status that followed
by his side, and wasn’t like how it seemed on the surface, a friend that could be conversed
with.

At this moment, when he saw Chen Xi starting to cook, Duanmu Ze couldn’t help but start
anticipating. This mood of this fellow at this time is surely extremely unpleasant, right?

However, what disappointed Duanmu Ze was that although the surrounding people
frequently shot over gazes of surprise, bewilderment, enlightenment, and disdain, Chen
Xi’s expression remained the same from the beginning until the end.

Not long after, a pot of Hundred Treasures Porridge that was cooked from over 100 types
of spirit fruits mixed with five cereal spirit grains[1. The five cereals represents rice, beans,
wheat, and two types of millet.] was ready, and an enticing fragrance of porridge brought
along traces of fresh fruity smell as it curled upwards and drifted to the surroundings.

Grrr~ Grrr~

Sounds of stomachs growling echoed out from the surroundings. Most of the cultivators
here were all around the Congenital Realm and were still unable to survive on spirit energy
like Violet Palace Realm cultivators, so they brought along dried rations when they came
here. But when they smelt the delicious fragrance of the porridge that was fresh out of the
pot, who wouldn’t covet it? Even their stomachs wouldn’t agree if they did!
“Young Master Duanmu is really someone that ordinary people can’t compare to, he even
brought a spirit chef when he came out for a trip. This quality of living is truly enviable!”

“Of course! Just by smelling the fragrance of that porridge, you can absolutely know that
youth is at least at the standard of a 2 leaf spirit chef!”

Duanmu Ze felt even happier in his heart when he heard this, and he picked up a white
napkin and covered his leg with a complacent expression, then he instructed. “Fill a bowl of
porridge for me.”

Chen Xi was holding a bowl of porridge and eating, and he muttered in reply, “There’s no
more.”

There was indeed no more, after giving Du Qingxi and himself a bowl each, a large bowl
was taken by Song Lin who was like the reincarnation of a hungry ghost, and the bottom of
the pot had already been scraped clean.

Duanmu Ze lowered his head and gazed at the napkin that he’d prepared on his leg, then
looked at the empty pot, and his expression constantly changed and was incomparably
brilliant.

“Oh, this porridge is good. What’s rare is it has an entirely different taste and is not one bit
inferior to the head spirit chef at my home.” Song Lin gulped down large mouthfuls of
porridge with a face of intoxication and satisfaction, and would occasionally emit a slurping
sound.

“This porridge is surely something he developed himself. It has a sweet taste and glutinous
texture that’s different from normal, and it contains pure spirit energy that is condensed and
doesn’t dissipate until it’s been eaten. It’s indeed not bad.” Du Qingxi nodded as she
judged.

Duanmu Ze’s expression went even more unsightly when he saw the two of them didn’t
have any intention of supporting him and were instead evaluating the taste of the Hundred
Treasures Porridge with great interest.

“Eh! That’s…”

Right at this moment, a commotion arose in the crowd and the gazes of everyone shot
towards the distance.

Du Qingxi raised her head and glanced over before withdrawing her gaze, and she said with
a calm expression, “So it’s that girl from the Su Clan. I knew she wouldn’t miss the
opportunity this time.”
Su Clan?

Chen Xi’s heart abruptly shook tremendously, and he quickly raised his head.
Chapter 36 - Numerous Experts

Su Clan!

A mere two words caused the hatred and rage that had accumulated within Chen Xi’s heart
for many years to be instantly lit ablaze.

The scene from he was four years old was still vivid in his mind. 13 Su Clan Golden Hall
Realm cultivators tore apart the marriage contract between him and the Su Clan’s Young
Miss before the eyes of everyone in Pine Mist City.

He still remembered the emotionless and icy cold mocking and ridicule of those Su Clan
Golden Hall Realm cultivators.

He still remembered that when his grandfather saw the marriage contract being torn in
pieces that flew about in the sky, his grandfather's aged face revealed an expression of pain
and despair.

Furthermore, his grandfather had died miserably outside the city gate three months ago, and
the Soundsaver Talisman Chen Hao gave him even allowed Chen Xi to deduce that perhaps
the one responsible for assassinating his grandfather might be the Li Clan, but the one
behind the scenes that were truly responsible was absolutely the Su Clan.

Chen Xi didn’t know the reason behind it, but he knew that his grandfather had died in the
hands of the Su Clan, and this was already sufficient!

“What’s wrong with you?” Du Qingxi perceptively noticed that Chen Xi’s aura seemed to
become restless.

Chen Xi took a deep breath and awoke from his monstrous hatred, then shook his head.

Shriek!

It was the crack of dawn and rows of clouds that were like fish scales floated atop the sky.
Extremely far in the distance, accompanied by a long and clear cry of a crane, the clouds
and mist seemed to have been dispersed by an awl. An extraordinary and robust white crane
flapped its wings, and as it broke through the clouds and approached with an extremely
swift speed.

Whoosh!

In practically the blink of an eye, a white crane that was fully snow white like jade
appeared in the sky above everyone, and it fluttered its wings as it let out a clear cry.
The gazes of everyone gathered onto the white crane at the first possible moment, and a
young girl in a black dress that had an incomparably delicate and charming appearance
stood there with her hands behind her back. She had lovely hair that was fluffy like clouds
and an elegant figure, and that disposition of hers that seemed like she would be blown
away by the wind caused many people to be secretly enchanted.

Song Lin laid on the floor and lazily opened his eyes, and he glanced at the young girl that
rode atop the white crane before lightly muttering, “Oh, Duanmu, your Miss Su has
arrived.”

Duanmu Ze glanced at Du Qingxi who was beside him and the corners of his mouth
twitched, and he furiously howled in a low voice. “What do you mean by my Miss Su?
What relationship does she, Su Jiao, have with me?”

Song Lin curled his lips in contempt, and Song Lin was just about to say something when
Duanmu Ze extended his hand to cover Song Lin’s mouth, then Duanmu Ze smiled
embarrassedly to the nearby Du Qingxi. “This fellow is sleep talking again.”

Du Qingxi paid no attention to Duanmu Ze’s explanation. On her beautiful face that was
covered beneath her veil, her pair of deep and starry eyes continuously looked at Chen Xi,
and her beautiful brows slightly frowned and seemed to have thought of something.

At this moment, Chen Xi had his head lowered, causing others to be unable to see his
expression. But under Du Qingxi’s close gaze, she still noticed the slight trembling of his
body, and he seemed to be forcefully suppressing the violently fluctuating feelings in his
heart.

“At the moment Su Jiao appeared, his mind became unusually disordered, could it be…
Right! The girl Chen Xi was betrothed to that year is surely Su Jiao without a doubt!”

A flash of wisdom appeared within Du Qingxi’s mind, she recalled the various rumors
about Chen Xi in Pine Mist City, and finally understood what was going on. She couldn’t
help but faintly sigh in her heart. His marriage contract was torn to shreds by the Su Clan
before the eyes of everyone. Perhaps, until today, he hasn’t released such a blow from his
heart?

“It’s the Eldest Young Miss of the Dragon Lake City’s Su Clan!”

“Ah! So she’s the Miss Su that’s one of the twin prides of Dragon Lake City? No wonder
she’s so beautiful!”

“Hmph! She’s more than beautiful! Miss Su’s cultivation is extremely extraordinary,
otherwise, how could she become eminent within Dragon Lake City where experts are as
numerous as the clouds and obtain the distinction of being one of the twin prides of Dragon
Lake City in one go?”
…

At this moment, everyone by Spiritcave Lake recognized Su Jiao’s identity, and the
discussion didn’t lack exclamations of shock, admiration, and adoration.

In mid-air, Su Jiao had an indifferent expression, as if she didn’t feel the ferventness of
everyone below, and she shot her gaze towards the distance.

Gradually, everyone was attracted by her actions, and their gazes shot towards the same
direction in succession.

“Hahaha! I’ve kept Miss Su waiting!” After a short moment, accompanied by a loud
laughter that was like a thunderclap, a blood red light whistled out from deep within the
cloudy sky, and a ferocious imposing manner instantly filled the heaven and the earth.

The hearts of everyone shook as they felt this formidable imposing manner that was
arrogant and unruly, and their expressions fluctuated between surprize and bewilderment.

The blood red light swiftly came to a stop and only now did everyone clearly see the
appearance of the person. This person wore a black robe with gold embroidery, he had a
wide chest and broad nose, and thick long hair hung down to his shoulders. He stood atop a
sword that was dark red like fresh blood, and a fierce and unruly imposing manner shot into
the sky as he openly declared his strength to everyone.

“Redlotus Bloodsoul Sword! He’s the Little Sword Devil, Cang Bin! The sword cultivating
genius of the Dragon Lake City’s Cang Clan!”

Someone exclaimed in surprize, and it instantly caused an uproar.  As they looked at the
black robed figure that stood atop the blood red sword in mid-air, their gazes were filled
with fear and reverence.

The killing intent on this person is so dense, he’s obviously experienced countless bloody
slaughters!

Chen Xi who was lost in thought was jolted awake as well. He raised his head to glance at
the black robed figure that stood mid-air and his formidable soul allowed him to see more
things than what others could.

“Oh, Duanmu, your old rival has come as well. Your Miss Su will be seized away by him if
you still don’t make a move.”

Song Lin’s lazy voice once again vaguely came out from his mouth, and the veins on
Duanmu Ze’s forehead thumped as he gnashed his teeth and said, “I’ll say it one more time,
she isn’t my Miss Su, the one I like is…”
The two words ‘Qingxi’ hadn’t even left his mouth when Duanmu Ze suddenly saw Du
Qingxi coldly glaring at him. His heart trembled as he forcefully swallowed back what he
was about to say, and he had an extremely embarrassed expression.

Chen Xi paid no attention to all this, as his attention had already been drawn by the
discussions that sounded out from afar.

“Strange, why have so many Violet Palace Realm cultivators come today? Only Congenital
Realm cultivators and below are able to enter the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.”

“It is extremely strange. Not only are there numerous Violet Palace Realm cultivators here
for the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials this year, even cultivators from outside of
Pine Mist City occupy half the amount of people. Such a spectacular scene is simply
unprecedented in the past!”

“Pfft! What’s there to feel strange about? Violet Palace Realm cultivators only require an
Essenceseal Pill and they’d be able to lower their cultivation by a realm to maintain it at the
perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm. Entering the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain is
a piece of cake.”

“It can’t be? If they were to participate then wouldn’t we Congenital Realm cultivators be
unable to obtain even a single baleful pearl?”

“Don’t worry, the backgrounds of these Violet Palace Realm cultivators are extremely
great. Would they care about these baleful pearls with their statuses? Their objective is
surely that sword immortals abode that’s given rise to much discussion. Even if it isn’t,
they’re surely here for something else. Anyhow, they’re surely not here for baleful pearls.”

No wonder Du Qingxi’s group of three would come here. So they possess something like
the Essenceseal Pill, and are able to lower their cultivations to the Congenital Realm. Chen
Xi was originally still wondering about this matter. Now, when he heard the surrounding
discussion, he couldn’t help but come to a sudden understanding, then he frowned. But,
what’s that sword immortal’s abode?

What made Chen Xi feel shocked inwardly the most was that just currently, he’d seen Du
Qingxi, Duanmu Ze, Song Lin, Su Jiao, and Cang Bin; five leading figures of the younger
generation of Dragon Lake City, and their backgrounds were all formidable like the others.
Then how many other experts with terrifying strengths were concealed in the shadows?

“Brother Cang, let’s go down and wait as well. The Southern Barbaric Nether Domain will
appear in approximately 15 minutes.” Su Jiao lightly nodded to Cang Bin in mid-air and her
gaze that was calm and emotionless like water swept downwards. She quickly found her
target, then she lightly descended.
“If you insist.” Cang Bin laughed as he put away his Redlotus Bloodsoul sword and
followed her to flash downwards.

Amongst the two of them, one had an indifferent disposition, the other was arrogant and
unruly, and their cultivation and identity were extremely shocking. The moment they hit the
ground, the crowd consciously opened a path for the two of them to pass.

Su Jiao paid no attention to the gazes of ardent adoration that were shot at her from the
surroundings and she directly walked to the location of Chen Xi’s group of four before
stopping and smiling sweetly. “Brother Duanmu, Brother Song, I never expected that the
two of you would be here as well.”

“Miss Su, aren’t you here as well?” Duanmu Ze stood up and lightly smiled as he said. He
wore his usual white clothes and was handsome. When he spoke at this moment, his elegant
demeanor did indeed attain a level that caused others to be unable to find fault with it.

Compared to Cang Bin who was by Su Jiao’s side, their temperament and appearances
were different, but they both emitted an imposing manner of strong confidence that was
evenly matched.

“Oh, I’m so sleepy. All of you chat.” Song Lin was completely indifferent instead, and he
still laid there like a pug as he muttered before his eyelids drooped down once again and he
slept soundly while snoring loudly.

Compared to Duanmu Ze and Cang Bin, the tired and sloppy Song Lin was simply not like
a person that had come from one of the six great clans of Dragon Lake City’s, the Song
Clan!

Su Jiao lightly smiled then turned to look at Du Qingxi whose face was covered by a black
veil. “Big Sister Qingxi, you’ve come for the sword immortal’s abode as well?”

“What do you think?” While her voice that was frosty like ice sounded out, Du Qingxi
stretched out her hand to remove the black veil that covered her head to reveal that chilly
and extremely beautiful face of hers. Her starry eyes were clear like water and her cherry
lips were rosy, and her pure white face was like a fully bloomed lotus that was exceedingly
beautiful.

At the moment the surrounding people saw Du Qingxi’s appearance, they were all
dumbstruck and were fiercely surprised by her beauty.

“Of course it is, otherwise, why would Big Sister Qingxi come and stay at this little Pine
Mist City for so long?” Su Jiao lightly smiled. “But, there’s only one sword immortal’s
abode, and for the sake of obtaining it, I won’t make any compromises.”
“Since it’s like that, then we’ll use that to decide on the winner in the Southern Barbaric
Nether Domain.” Du Qingxi replied in an extremely straightforward manner, her voice was
chilly as usual and carried a sense of having made a decision to kill.

“That’s what I intended as well.” Su Jiao grinned as she replied, then she shot her gaze
towards the side. There, Chen Xi sat cross-legged.

Along with the appearance of Su Jiao and Cang Bin, the people in the surroundings had
shot their gazes over already. Duanmu Ze had arrived early on, and everyone already knew
his identity. Moreover, along with Su Jiao calling out Du Qingxi’s name, then seeing that
beautiful and refined appearance of Du Qingxi, most people were able to guess that this
woman was surely the favored genius from the Dragon Lake City’s Du Clan. Du Qingxi
that was called one of the twin prides of Dragon Lake City with Su Jiao!

As for Song Lin, just by hearing his name, they knew. This tired and drowsy fellow was
surely from the Song Clan of the six great clans of Dragon Lake City.

Su Clan, Cang Clan, Duanmu Clan, Du Clan, Song Clan… Five young men and women
who were all respectively from one of the six great clans of Dragon Lake City. Moreover,
they were all the most outstanding figures in the younger generation who were flourishing
in the limelight. How could the people present normally see such a grand line-up?

So at this moment, when they saw Su Jiao casting her gaze at Chen Xi, the people present
couldn’t help but guess in their hearts. Who is this fellow? He’s able to mix together with
five youths that have deep backgrounds and superb cultivations. Could it be that he’s a
disciple from the last one of the six great clans, the Fang Clan?

At this moment, Chen Xi who sat cross-legged on the ground had undoubtedly become the
center of attention for everyone.
Chapter 37 - Southern Barbaric Nether Domain

Su Jiao’s gaze was indifferent and tranquil as she quietly sized up the youth before her. Her
expression was similarly calm, and caused others to be unable to perceive what she thought
in her heart.

“You’re Chen Xi?” After a short while, Su Jiao slowly spoke with a voice that carried a
trace of condescending arrogance.

Chen Xi?

At the moment her words echoed out, the surrounding people were all confused and only
those people that came from Pine Mist City revealed a trace of astonishment when they
heard this name.

Who in Pine Mist City didn’t know the great name of Chen Xi the jinx?

It was precisely because they knew this that they felt astonished when they saw Chen Xi
actually being together with the disciples from the great clans of Dragon Lake City.

“Fuck! Why’s the jinx here? Isn’t he a loser that only knows how to craft talismans? Why’s
he participating in the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials as well?” Someone felt that
it was difficult to believe.

“AH! I’ve finally recalled it. He hid behind Young Master Duanmu earlier and all of us
were drawn by Young Master Duanmu’s elegant demeanor, so we overlooked this fellow.”
Someone seized this opportunity to flatter Duanmu Ze.

“It can’t be! How could someone that’s able to be called out by name by a figure like Miss
Su be an ordinary person? Hey, buddy, who exactly is this Chen Xi?” The cultivators from
outside Pine Mist City were extremely curious and they all started to inquire about Chen
Xi’s identity.

“Haha! All of you are too young, and you’re all talking fucking rubbish! Let me tell all of
you, that Miss Su was betrothed to Chen Xi all those years ago. It was approximately when
he was four…” Someone started brazenly talking about the scene of Chen Xi’s marriage
contract being torn apart all those years ago.

Chen Xi kept silent as he heard the bustling sounds of discussion from the surroundings,
and his expression was extremely calm as if everything in the surroundings wasn't related
to him.

“Eh, jinx? This isn’t real right?” Duanmu Ze feigned astonishment, and the pleasure and
ridicule in his eyes were something that was clear for all to see.
“I never imagined that Miss Su had such a past with him.” Cang Bin who had his hands
crossed before him glanced at Chen Xi in surprize and his eyes emitted dense disdain and
contempt. “But if it was me, I would surely not marry trash like this.”

Under the mocking and ridicule from the surroundings, Chen Xi stood up and stared at Su
Jiao as he abruptly asked, “You’re related to my grandfather’s death, right?”

“I…” Su Jiao was stunned then her expression went cold and she said with a frown, “Does
the death of your grandfather have anything to do with me?”

“Dare to do the deed, but not admit it?” Chen Xi continued to pursue in question.

Su Jiao was extremely furious in her heart from being interrogated by Chen Xi, and she
said word by word, “Do you think I would explain myself to trash from an impoverished
family? You need to understand that the marriage contract between our clans doesn’t exist
anymore. Now, even if I kill you, I don’t have to worry about facing any trouble. Do you
understand?”

A trace of contempt flashed at bottom of Su Jiao’s eyes when she saw Chen Xi keeping
silent, and her tone was even more unbridled. “In any case, even if I killed your
grandfather, what can you do with your little strength?”

“Remember, the weak will never have the right to speak. Being in an impoverished family
is an inherent shortcoming and mediocre ability is an acquired shortcoming. You have both
of them! But you still dare speak to me in this way? Truly laughable and stupid!”

“If you still dare speak to me in this way when I see you again, then I’ll surely kill you!”

After she finished speaking, Su Jiao turned around and left with Cang Bin, and when she
left, a slight indifferent smile still hung on her delicate and charming face like a triumphant
queen.

“Miss Su, leave Chen Xi to me, I’ll surely teach him a good lesson until you’re satisfied.”
A clear voice vaguely sounded out in the distance.

“Thank you for your concern, Young Master Li Huai. But the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain is more important, just temporarily leave other things be.”

Li Huai?

Chen Xi suddenly raised his head and looked at the handsome young man in the far away
crowd, and he muttered in his heart. The Eldest Young Master of the Li Clan? You two are
together as expected…

“Are you ok?” This was the second time that Du Qingxi had asked Chen Xi the same
question.
Chen Xi shook his head and his expression returned to normal. Since he was young, he’d
encountered innumerable amounts of ridicule and mocking. This little blow from Su Jiao
didn’t cause him to feel wronged or furious.

On the contrary, because he saw Li Huai and Su Jiao together, it caused him to be even
more certain that the death of his grandfather was absolutely related to the powers that
backed these two people!

Du Qingxi didn’t say anything further because the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain was
about to appear.

Om!

After a short moment, a strange fluctuation suddenly sounded out in the surroundings of
Spiritcave Lake. The originally calm surface of the lake seemed as if thousands of bombs
were thrown into it, and enormous waves that were 30 over meters high surged out with a
bang.

The enormous waves billowed like numerous 30 plus meter long water dragons that swam
about and roared, and the spirit energy of heaven and earth was thrown into chaos by these
violent fluctuations. Currents of air whistled as they blew out as if a gale had risen.

Whoosh!

The gazes of everyone present was attracted by this scene.

“The Southern Barbaric Nether Domain is about to appear. Everyone, stand back!”

Right when this voice finished sounding out, the hundred plus water dragons formed from
waves had coiled together above Spiritcave Lake and formed an enormous vortex that
revolved crazily.

At practically the same time, a monstrous suction force surged out from the vortex, and the
spirit energy within a domain of 50km from Spiritcave Lake was instantly swallowed up.
The dark-green grass and trees withered with a speed that was visible to the eye, and a
cultivator nearby to Spiritcave Lake that didn’t retreat in time was instantly sucked into the
vortex. His body transformed into a clump of blood that instantly vanished.

“Watch out! Once you’re sucked in by the vortex, you’ll be instantly minced into scraps
even if you’re a Golden Core Realm cultivator.”

Actually, there was no need for a warning. When everyone present watched the earlier
scene, they’d long since retreated more than 100m, and only when they felt the vortex was
of no threat did they stand still with a lingering fear in their hearts.

Crackle!
The violent sounds of thunderclaps abruptly sounded within the sky, and an astonishing
scene appeared. The sky behind the enormous vortex seemed to have been crushed by the
hands of a god, it crumbled inch by inch and a large ‘door’ that black lights rolled about on
had gradually condensed into form.

Along with the appearance of this ‘door,’ the terrifying suction force disappeared and the
heaven and earth returned to normal.

“Let’s go!” A figure took the lead to flash explosively towards the ‘door.’

When the others saw this, how could they be willing to fall behind? So they transformed
into numerous black silhouettes that swarmed towards that ‘door.’

“Big Sister Qingxi, little sister will be going first.” Su Jiao turned around and laughed with
a crisp voice. The white crane beneath her feet flapped its wings and they disappeared
within the ‘door’ with a whoosh. Cang Bin and Li Huai stood on flying swords as they
followed her to enter the ‘door.’

“Let’s go in as well. This door that leads to the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain will only
remain for 15 minutes, and the next time it appears will be after a month.” Not long after Su
Jiao’s group left, Du Qingxi brought Chen Xi and the others to enter the ‘door.’

Om!

After 15 minutes, the vicinity of Spiritcave Lake was completely devoid of people, and the
large ‘door’ above the lake suddenly vanished and the shattered sky returned to normal.

Crackle!

Not long after the large ‘door’ that headed to the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain
disappeared, the sky above the bank of Spiritcave Lake was torn open like cloth, and a two
slender and white hands extended out.

Subsequently, a tall violet robed young man walked out of the crack in the sky with even
steps, and he rubbed his chin as he gazed above Spiritcave Lake, seeming to have thought
of something.

The sun shone onto his face, and his features that were well-defined seemed to have been
carefully carved by a sculptor. He was unusually handsome with a fierce gaze, and there
seemed to be two balls of violet lightning revolving within his pupils, adding a peculiar and
mysterious aura to him.

“Dammit! So it’s just a wasteland that exists within a spatial tear. I fucking thought it’s a
minor world that hadn’t been explored. Now I’m doomed! If I’m caught by that unruly
little girl I’ll…”
The violet robed handsome young man’s face revealed a trace of an annoyed expression,
then he noticed something and his sword shaped eyebrows fiercely knit. His figure
vanished on the spot with a whoosh, as if he’d vanished into thin air.

“He’s fled again! This damn bastard!”

The sky shattered with a bang to reveal a deep and gloomy passage, and a young woman
with a delicate appearance and a graceful figure walked out in fury. She swept her gaze
towards the surroundings and seemed to have not found what she wanted, then she fiercely
stomped the ground before turning around and without hesitation, she returned into the
passage in space once again.

The middle of the 5,000 km domain of the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range, was
precisely the publically acknowledged depths of the Southern Barbaric Forbidden Area.
Circles of ripples abruptly appeared in the sky before a cliff waterfall, and a tall figure
walked out from within the ripples. It was shockingly the violet robed young man from
before.

“Oh, there are actually so many greater demons… Hmm, not bad, not bad indeed. Hiding
here for some time seems to be a good choice.”

As he spoke, the violet robed young man stroked his chin and looked around his
surroundings, then he extended out his slender and white right hand to lightly grab towards
the sky, and a large black python that was thick like a bucket suddenly appeared in his
originally empty hand.

There was a small blood red horn on this large python, its entire body was densely covered
with layer upon layer of scales that were like cloud markings, and four golden little claws
even grew out beneath its abdomen.

“Oh, soon to transform into a flood dragon? Unfortunately, you’ve cultivated for over 5,000
years for nothing, and in the end, you can only obediently become the meal in my
stomach…” The violet robed young man smiled evilly. He paid no regard to the begging
expression emitted from the enormous python’s eyes as he exerted force with his fingers
and they were like sharp edges as they deeply sunk into the enormous pythons head.

Boom!

The head of the enormous python instantly transformed into a bloody rain that covered the
sky and showered downwards.

The eyes of the violet clothed young man that were like two violet vortexes slightly
narrowed, and the corners of his mouth curled into a slight blade-like angle. He raised his
head and extended out a scarlet tongue, then he allowed the blood to splash on his body as
he freely enjoyed this type of bloody and wild banquet.
…

Bang!

Chen Xi had just stood stably and hadn’t even had the chance to see the scene in his
surroundings clearly when a black figure pounced towards him. He didn’t hesitate in the
slightest as he struck out with his fist, directly smashing the black figure flying over to the
ground 30 over meters away.

Roar!

The black figure lay prone on the ground and howled in reluctance to leave this world.

Only now did Chen Xi see clearly that this black figure was actually a wild beast the size of
a calf that had a hideous appearance. Its entire body was jet-black like graphite, its eyes
dark red like brass bells, and it emitted a brutal and ferocious aura.

Baleful beast? This is the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain?

Chen Xi gazed at his surroundings, and he only saw that the sky here was suffused with a
thick layer of lead gray clouds that vaguely revealed a dark red color. The ground was filled
with rocks and sand, and when the piercingly cold wind whistled past, sand and dust would
flutter in the air to suffuse out like a mist, causing one to be unable to see where exactly in
the distance was the end.
Chapter 38 - Netherezim Baleful Qi

Bang!

A sword light that was cold like snow flashed past, and the head of the baleful beast that
Chen Xi struck down was instantly penetrated with a thumb-size hole.

The baleful beast let out a miserable howl before crashing onto the ground.

“These baleful beasts are all condensed from baleful qi, and one may say that they’re
immortal. A baleful beast will only lose its combat ability when its head is shattered and the
baleful pearl contained within is removed. Then, it will transform into baleful qi and
dissipate.” Du Qingxi walked forward from the side, and she explained as she extracted a
pigeon egg sized black colored pearl from the head of the baleful beast’s corpse.

“Oh, look. This thing is of no use to me, you keep it. You can exchange them for some
spirit stones once we go out of here.” Du Qingxi casually tossed the baleful pearl in her
hand to Chen Xi.

Chen Xi received the baleful pearl and couldn’t help but be stunned. He noticed that Du
Qingxi attitude towards him seemed to have changed greatly, and it had an extra trace of
faintly discernible care.

“Let’s go. We can’t fly within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. Our destination is
still extremely far. If we can’t reach there within a month, then we would have wasted this
opportunity that was difficult to come by.”

Du Qingxi didn’t wait for Chen Xi to carefully appreciate the reason for this care and
walked towards the distance.

“Jinx, follow us well. Be sure not to lag behind.” Duanmu Ze glanced at Chen Xi as if he
was gazing at a clown, then laughed in ridicule before leaping forward, and his sleeves
moved gracefully as he flashed forward in an elegant manner.

“Oh, we have to hurry on with our journey.” Song Lin was still in a drowsy state, and his
figure fluttered like a drunken monkey, seeming to be slow but he miraculously followed
closely behind the group.

Chen Xi didn’t dare hesitate and he executed his Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps that had
attained the advanced-stage. The point of his foot lightly touched the ground, and before the
dirt splashed up, his body had already flashed out 30 over meters like a willow seed that
rode the air. His movements couldn’t be said to be pleasing to the eye, but they were simple
and agile and saved extremely on True Essence and physical strength.
The sky of the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain was always lead gray in color, combined
with the dirt that suffused in the air; when a violent wind whistled past, the entire heaven
and earth was covered in a layer of mist that was impossible to remove, and it was
extremely easy to get lost while travelling here.

However, Du Qingxi had a small and exquisite silver colored compass in her possession
and the four of them swiftly moved forward according to the direction the compass pointed
at, saving the time for them to identify the direction.

Travelling in a hurry was extremely dull and dry, and baleful beasts would scurry out from
the dense mist from time to time. Although they were unable to harm Chen Xi’s group of
four, they still affected the pace of their journey.

For the sake of making the best use of their time, everyone besides Chen Xi had all drawn
their weapons.

Du Qingxi had a forked-tail dagger that was suffused with a dim-green luster in her hand,
and on the upper part of the dagger was a lifelike azure lotus. The lotus petals bloomed
gracefully and gloriously. Its name was Unity Azurelotus Dagger, and it was a graded
Magic Treasure.

The sword in Duanmu Ze’s hand was 0.3m long and two fingers wide; the blade was like
an expanse of autumn water. There were seven stars that were suffused with rainbow
colored lights carved on the sword, and spots of chilly starlight flickered gracefully, making
it seem full of spirit. Its name was Sevenstar Rainbow Sword, and it was similarly a graded
Magic Treasure.

As for Song Lin, he held an umbrella shaped weapon. The frame of the umbrella was a
glossy black color and was inscribed with countless dense runes; the umbrellas surface was
instead made up of 1,008 sharp hooks that were connected together, and it was suffused
with a ghastly and murderous aura. Its name was Skynet Thousandhook Umbrella and it
was undoubtedly a graded Magic Treasure as well.

Moreover, for the sake of protecting themselves well, besides the weapons in their hands,
the three of them all wore various equipment that flickered with bright lights, such as
armor, shoulder guards, bracers, and a belt… Even the shoes on their feet were of
extraordinary quality with profound functions. It caused Chen Xi eyes to be dazzled by all
this and he was full of yearning. He had to admit that just the various Magic Treasures in
the possession of these disciples from great clans weren’t something that any ordinary
person was able to possess.

Although because of the Essenceseal pill, the strength of Du Qingxi’s group of three that
was fully equipped was maintained at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm, the
formidability of their battle strength far surpassed an ordinary cultivator with the same
cultivation. At the instant they noticed a baleful beast approaching, one of the three of them
would beat the others to attack it, and they were all one hit kills that absolutely didn’t allow
a chance of survival.
Chen Xi held a sword in his hand, this sword was fully light azure with a sharp edge, and
its name was Azurebolt Sword. It was the sword he entrusted to Pei Pei to buy while he was
in close door training within the Quiet Room and coupled with that Chaotic Windsplit
Sword Technique, it cost him an entire 2,000 plus spirit crystals. If it wasn’t for him killing
that two-headed Violet Rhino greater demon and unexpectedly obtaining 3,000 spirit
crystals, he would have been unable to afford this Azurebolt Sword that had attained the
standard of a high-grade mortal weapon.

Comparisons were indeed odious!

However, Chen Xi was already content with being able to possess his Azurebolt Sword.
After all, his circumstances and resources were utterly incapable of comparing with those
disciples from great clans that were born with a golden spoon. Rather than being envious
and jealous, it was better to think of how to obtain these things in the future through his
own effort. That was the matter that was truly important.

All along the way, Chen Xi practically didn’t have the opportunity to fight because of the
presence of Du Qingxi’s group of three. He would only run up when the baleful beasts were
killed to dig out the baleful pearl within its head. In a short time of not even two hours, he
actually collected an entire 300 over baleful pearls which could be considered as an
unexpected sum of wealth.

I wonder how many spirit stones these baleful pearls can sell for. I heard that there are
people purchasing it only at the capital of Darchu Dynasty, Silken City. If it’s like this, it’s
going to be slightly difficult for me to exchange the baleful pearls into spirit stones. Chen
Xi thought inwardly.

The capital of Darchu Dynasty, Silken City, was an entire 500,000 km away from the
southern territory. He would only be able to control a Magic Treasure and fly over when he
advanced into the Violet Palace Realm. But even then, it was difficult to travel there
without spending 10 to 15 days.

“Why sell them? According to my observation, this tiny pearl contains a tiny bit of an
extremely rare Netherezim Baleful Qi. When your cultivation attains the Rebirth Realm, the
marvelousness of its effect when used to condense a Rebirth Wheel would absolutely
exceed your imagination.” Ji Yu’s voice suddenly sounded out within Chen Xi’s heart,
causing his body to freeze for a moment before returning to normal. He’d long since
become used to the various unfathomable abilities of this unconventional spirit of the
Manor.

Nevertheless, this was the first time he was communicating with Ji Yu via his soul after all,
and he couldn’t help but ask curiously, “You’re able to perceive my thoughts?”

“No, but I saw you holding the baleful pearl and thinking hard with a frown. It was easy to
guess,” replied Ji Yu.
Chen Xi came to a sudden understanding, and he unconsciously heaved a sigh of relief in
his heart. The secrets and thoughts of one’s own heart being easily spied on and understood
by another was something that anyone would be absolutely unable to tolerate.

“Right, you said this baleful pearl contains a tiny bit of Netherezim Baleful Qi?” After
putting down the worries in his heart, Chen Xi suddenly realized the meaning of Ji Yu’s
words, and his heart couldn’t help but tremble.

Various unimaginable baleful qis were contained within the heaven and the earth, and they
were divided into three ranks. These ranks were the heaven-rank, earth-rank, and mortal-
rank; these ranks were further divided into three grades, namely high-grade, intermediate-
grade, and low-grade. In short, there were three ranks and nine grades.

The common Soulsmelt Baleful Qi and Icesoul Baleful Qi both belonged to the lowest low-
grade mortal-rank baleful qi. Whereas baleful qis that had attained the earth-rank belonged
to the ranks of rare baleful qis. Baleful qi that had attained the heaven-rank were rare
treasures that could only be encountered by luck and not sought after.

Netherezim Baleful Qi was a type of heaven-rank baleful qi, as for which grade within the
heaven-rank it pertained to, even Chen Xi didn’t know, clearly due paying very little
attention to information in this aspect.

But even then, just by the two words, heaven-rank, Chen Xi dared to affirm that so long as
he dared say that he had Netherezim Baleful Qi in his possession, it would absolutely
attract the coveting of countless great cultivators!

The reason for this was that when a cultivator wanted to break through to the Rebirth
Realm, the cultivator must use baleful qi to condense a Rebirth Wheel within the Dantian.

There were seven temperings in the Rebirth Realm, one Rebirth Wheel per tempering.
Moreover, besides sufficient True Essence, when one wanted to condense a Rebirth Wheel,
baleful qi was the crux of the process!

The formidability of a Rebirth Realm cultivator’s strength was closely related to the rank
and grade of the baleful qi used to condense the Rebirth Wheel. The cultivation of a
cultivator that used mortal-rank baleful qi to condense his Rebirth Wheel would inherently
lose tremendously to a cultivator that used heaven-rank baleful qi to condense his Rebirth
Wheel.

It was easily imaginable how excited Chen Xi was now when he found out that this tiny
baleful pearl actually contained a type of heaven-rank baleful qi.

“Exactly. However, the Netherezim Baleful Qi within the baleful pearl is extremely scarce.
You’ll have to gather over 10,000 baleful pearls, you’ll more or less be able to extract a
palm-sized ball of Netherezim Baleful Qi.” Ji Yu sighed and said, “If you’re willing to take
the trouble, I can pass on the extraction technique to you.”
Although the Rebirth Realm was an extremely distant goal to Chen Xi, being able to gather
Netherezim Baleful Qi now was much better than spending the time to gather it in the
future, after all.

Most importantly, Netherezim Baleful Qi was a heaven-rank baleful qi that could only be
encountered by luck and not sought after. How could Chen Xi miss this extremely great
opportunity? So, he agreed right away without the slightest hesitation.

Ji Yu was forthright, and at the moment before Chen Xi could even react, a piece of concise
technique appeared within his mind.

The technique’s name was Extraction Arts and it was a technique that specialized in
extracting baleful qi. Its concept was extremely ingenious and wasn’t difficult to cultivate.

In next to no time, Chen Xi had already mastered this technique, but due to pushing on their
journey currently, he wasn’t able to take a baleful pearl and try the technique.

Chen Xi wasn’t anxious as he knew that the cultivation of any technique was absolutely not
something that could be done in a short amount of time. Just like talisman crafting and
culinary arts, unless one cultivated diligently and bitterly, it was absolutely impossible to
attain the level of being skilled in it.

Because of finding out of the secret of the Netherezim Baleful Qi, Chen Xi gathered the
baleful pearls along the way even more diligently. This change instantly attracted contempt
from Duanmu Ze, and he even generously directed ridicule and cutting remarks at Chen Xi.

Like ‘a bumpkin that hasn’t seen the world,’ ‘insatiably greedy and shameless person,’
‘jinx that’s greedily gathering wealth like a madman’… These cutting remarks ceaselessly
flew out of Duanmu Ze’s mouth with varying tones. Compared to Chen Xi who was
concentrated on gathering baleful pearls, the current Duanmu Ze was akin to a widow that
had been lonely for a long time, forever possessing things to nag about.

In the end, Du Qingxi was truly unable to stand by and watch any longer, so she turned
around and glanced coldly. Only then did Duanmu Ze reluctantly shut his mouth.

Song Lin didn’t let the opportunity slip by and muttered, “Oh, Little Zeze that doesn’t care
about poise is actually quite cute…”

Little Zeze?

Duanmu Ze’s pupils abruptly went wide, his feet staggered and he nearly fell down.

Dammit! So disgusting!
Duanmu Ze’s mouth gaped but he didn’t know where to begin talking from because he
woefully noticed that before that damnable fellow, Chen Xi, he seemed to have never been
his normal self…
Chapter 39 - Bloody Mountain

Exactly how large is the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain?

After walking for nearly 12 hours, Chen Xi still had a feeling as if he was walking in mist,
and besides the baleful beasts that pounced out one after the other, he never saw a single
other thing.

There were an entire 10,000 plus people that had entered the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain this time, but up until now, Chen Xi hadn’t seen anyone besides Du Qingxi,
Duanmu Ze, and Song Lin who were by his side.

Obviously, everyone was transported to a different location upon entering the Southern
Barbaric Nether Domain.

Du Qingxi suddenly stopped moving, then she looked at the sky before looking at the map
in her hand, and she turned around and suggested. “Let’s rest for a while. We’ll be leaving
this Dusty Nightmare Area in another 15 minutes and enter Bloody Mountain.”

“Innumerable amounts of baleful beast packs wreak havoc within Bloody Mountain.
Moreover, when we arrive there, we’ll encounter other cultivators. For the sake of survival
and baleful pearls, or perhaps for the sake of that sword immortal’s abode, the true
competition and slaughter will be arriving really soon.” Her voice that was chilly like ice
had a trace of rare seriousness, and this was extremely rarely seen on Du Qingxi. Thus, it
was noticeable how dangerous Bloody Mountain was that it caused even her to feel
troublesome.

“Exactly. Baleful beast leaders accompany the baleful beast packs sometimes, these baleful
beast leaders have cultivations equivalent to the initial-stage of the Violet Palace realm and
are extremely terrifying. However, these baleful beast leaders would never actively attack
people, but so long as someone enrages it, it would absolutely be a disaster to us who have
our strengths limited to the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm.” Duanmu Ze had a
solemn expression as he pondered for a moment before saying, and he didn’t boast
shamelessly and confidently like he usually did.

Chen Xi who sat cross-legged as he counted the number of baleful pearls started paying
attention when he saw the expression of both of them carrying a trace of seriousness. Violet
Palace Realm baleful beast leader? The true slaughter is about to arrive? Is Bloody
Mountain really so terrifying?

“Actually, I think the most dangerous thing is still the other cultivators that came here with
us.” Song Lin rubbed his sleepy eyes as he interrupted.

Could he be speaking of Su Jiao and her group? Chen Xi pondered inwardly.

Du Qingxi and Duanmu Ze seemed to have become aware of something and both shot their
gazes at Song Lin. Both of them knew that in spite of this fellow being slovenly, indolent,
and was addicted to sleeping like it was his life; but his heart was like a clear mirror, and
any signs of trouble in the surroundings would be unable to escape his notice. Now that he
said this, could it be that he’d noticed something?

Song Lin spread out his hands and said helplessly, “Don’t look at me like that. In any case,
I had a jittery feeling before we entered the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. It was as if a
formidable fellow that we don’t know of is concealed amongst those cultivators.”

Du Qingxi’s face was already completely serious when she heard Song Lin say this.

“Qingxi, you don’t have to be too worried. No matter how formidable these concealed
fellows are, so long as they’ve entered the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, then their
strengths would be restricted to the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm just like us.
The three of us joining forces are sufficient to deal with everything.” Duanmu Ze consoled
in a light voice.

Du Qingxi was instead unable to accept this, and she casually found a place to sit cross-
legged before closing her eyes and pondering.

Unfamiliar cultivators that came from outside Pine Mist City occupied more than half of a
number of people that participated in the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials this time.
For the sake of seizing even more baleful pearls, or perhaps for the sake of that sword
immortal’s abode, these fellows would surely stop at nothing.

All of this was within Du Qingxi’s expectations, but when she heard what Song Lin said
and recalled that there were still formidable figures concealed amongst these cultivators,
how would she dare let her guard down?

Song Lin’s cultivation equally matched hers, but the cultivation technique he cultivated was
extremely marvelous, and it was able to acutely perceive the dangers that could exist in the
surroundings. Moreover, how terrifying would the cultivation of the person be that he’s
able to cause Song Lin to feel danger?

I never imagined that the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain this time would cause such a
stir. Just Su Jiao’s group is already enough of a headache, but now there’s another
concealed expert. I wonder who will be the biggest winner…?

Du Qingxi lightly sighed in her heart, and her confident heart couldn’t help but slightly
sway.

“What’re you daydreaming for? Get cooking!”

Duanmu Ze glared at Chen Xi before turning around and going nearby Du Qingxi before
saying in a gentle voice, “Qingxi, we’ve traveled for so long, I presume you’re extremely
exhausted right? What do you want to eat? Ask that kid to make it for you.”

Chen Xi had learned how to disregard this Young Master that provoked him for time to
time, and he very naturally shot his gaze towards Du Qingxi.

Du Qingxi opened her eyes and pondered for a moment before instructing. “It isn’t a bad
idea. Chen Xi, do as you see fit.”

The spirit energy within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain had dried up and was
instead filled with baleful qi. If one didn’t have medicinal pills and spirit stones to replenish
one’s True Essence, then not to mention killing baleful beasts to gather baleful pearls, even
surviving was an extremely difficult thing. The reason she brought Chen Xi along was
precisely because Chen Xi was able to cook delicious delicacies that were full of spirit
energy.

“Then I’ll make some exhaustion relieving dishes, and let you replenish some of your
physical strength.” Chen Xi nodded.

“I want to eat as well!” Song Lin shouted out loudly. When eating was mentioned, this
slovenly fellow that was always sleeping was virtually as if on drugs, and he was full of
spirit.

“Don’t forget to make a portion for me. If you dare be shifty then I’ll surely teach you a
lesson!” Duanmu Ze seemed to have recalled something when he saw Chen Xi take out
some ingredients and began preparing to cook, and he warned in a cold voice.

“Hey, why’re you so fierce to our spirit chef? Isn’t it only not getting to eat some Hundred
Treasures Porridge in the morning? Brother Duanmu, think about it, what if he puts a little
poison into your bowl? Haha!” Song Lin smiled broadly as he teased.

Duanmu Ze was stunned. Right, I’ve been ridiculing and verbally abusing him all this time.
If he harbors hatred in his heart then it’s really possible that he will do so.

“Oh, he doesn’t have to poison your food. He just has to spit a little bit or toss in some piss
or shit…” The extremely slovenly Song Lin seemed to be extremely interested in hardcore
things, and the more he said, the more excited he became.

It’s too disgusting!

The corners of Duanmu Ze’s mouth fiercely twitched, then he looked at the faraway Chen
Xi, and he could only grit his teeth as he decided inwardly. If you dare let this Young
Master notice a trace of an unusual taste while eating later, GODDAMMIT, I’ll surely tear
this fellow to shreds!
Chen Xi wasn’t so senseless nor did he have such hardcore tastes like Song Lin. They were
about to enter the fiendish Bloody Mountain, even if he wanted to disgust Duanmu Ze, he
would have to decide based on the circumstances.

Duanmu Ze was currently in the same group as Chen Xi, after all. Even if they were an
eyesore to each other, but under the current circumstance, he had no choice but to
temporarily put down this resentment and face the approaching dangers together.

Grilled Mandarin Fish, Shallow-fried Croton Fruit, Deep-fried Mandarin Fishballs, Stir-
fried Mantis Shrimp with Raw Scallions, Pork Braised in Emerald Mushroom Oil… In next
to no time, plate after plate of lustrous and tempting dishes came fresh out of the wok.

A string of music that melodious and pleasant to the ear like gurgling stream sounded out
from within a screen that was coiled around by spirit energy. Within the screen that was
painted with flowers, birds, insects, and fish; Duanmu Ze, Du Qingxi, and Song Lin sat
around a sapphire roundtable. As they gazed at the various delicious delicacies that were
served continuously like flowing water and smelled the various tempting fragrances that
floated in the air, their moods were instantly elated.

Being able to eat such a sumptuous banquet that was filled with spirit energy within the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain that was desolate like a wasteland and covered in layers
of haze caused by the wind and sand that covered the sky, was undoubtedly something that
made one extremely happy.

“I never expected that Qingxi would prepare so thoroughly, and even screens, tables, and
chairs have been sufficiently prepared. When sitting here, the sounds of wind and sand
whistling can’t be heard, the gloomy and hazy scene can’t be seen; the eyes and nose are
filled with feasts to the eye and graceful sounds of music. Truly knowing how to enjoy
life.” Duanmu Ze held up the small wine cup made from carved jade and drained the cup in
one gulp, then he emitted a satisfied sigh.

“Enjoying?” Du Qingxi was dazed and a trace of sorrow surged out from deep within her
eyes.

“Eat food, eat food. Why are all of you chatting for? Oh, this Floss Candied Dragon Banana
is too tasty…” Song Lin was like the reincarnation of a hungry ghost, his hands got to work
and his chopsticks descended like rain drops as he gobbled down his food.

Chen Xi pushed the screen open and walked in, then he put down a pot of fresh and
fragrant Treasurefruit Soup before turning around and leaving.

“You’re not eating with us?” Du Qingxi raised her head and asked.

“I’m roasting some meat, all of you eat first.” Chen Xi replied without turning back. He
didn’t want to sit at the same table as Duanmu Ze.
“Qingxi, he likes to stay outside. Moreover, there’s no reason for a servant like him to eat
with us.” Duanmu Ze hurriedly mediated when he saw Du Qingxi still wanting to say
something.

Du Qingxi said coldly, “He’s a spirit chef, we have an employment relationship!”

Duanmu Ze curled his lips in contempt, then said indifferently. “Oh, is that so.”

Chen Xi didn’t have the time to be envious of the luxurious life of Du Qingxi’s group of
three, he sat on an area covered in gravel that was extremely far away as he voraciously
annihilated a roasted hind leg of a roe deer. After he filled his stomach, Chen Xi dashed
towards that area covered in layers of haze in the distance.

He wanted to gather baleful pearls!

Although he’d already gathered nearly 3,000 baleful pearls all along the way here, this was
still far from enough. According to Ji Yu, he would need to extract the Netherezim Baleful
Qi from at least 10,000 baleful pearls to be able to condense a Rebirth Wheel.

10,000 baleful pearls would also mean that he must kill 10,000 baleful beasts, and this was
a number that would absolutely cause someone to feel it was hopeless. But, Chen Xi had
only entered the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain this time with great difficulty, how
would he be willing to leave without gathering sufficient Netherezim Baleful Qi?

However, right when Chen Xi had dashed out for not even 1.5km, a shrill cry suddenly
sounded out from within the far away layers of haze.

“Flee quickly, a baleful beast pack is coming!” The voice revealed boundless terror, and it
wasn’t long before numerous cultivators dashed out of the far away haze in panic. Their
hair was in disorder, clothes torn and stained with blood, and they were in an extremely
sorry state.

Baleful beast pack? Could it be that these people had encountered an attack?

Chen Xi stopped moving, and his formidable soul’s Perception Force spread out.

“Flee quickly! A baleful beast pack is coming!” Under the waves of shrill cries, those
people had already come close, but an expected event suddenly happened.

When the burly middle-aged man in the lead was about to pass Chen Xi by, he suddenly
twisted his waist and his fingers slightly opened up as his hand stretched out to grab at
Chen Xi’s neck!
When they saw this, the others changed from their sorry states to have vicious expressions
on their faces as they moved to surround Chen Xi.

These were not pitiable people that were fleeing in a sorry state after encountered the attack
of a baleful beast pack, these were obviously a gang of cunning and crafty bandits!

Chen Xi stood still on the spot, and he seemed as if he’d been shocked stiff from the sudden
turn of events.

A trace of a savage and complacent smile appeared on the blood covered face of the
middle-aged man when he saw this scene. What a stupid little fat sheep, he looks like a
fledgling at first glance.

Hmm? Something seems to be slightly off…

At the moment the middle-aged burly man’s eyes met with Chen Xi’s eyes that were calm
like ice, he felt an inexplicable horror surge out from his spine to swiftly cover his entire
body.
Chapter 40 - Killing Bandits

The middle aged burly man was called Liang Hu, and he was an infamous leader of a gang
of bandits in Pine Mist City. His cultivation was only at the perfection-stage of the
Congenital Realm, but relying on his cunning and cautious disposition, he’d always moved
about freely until today, and he lived an extremely comfortable life.

The key of it was that he’d never once offended a disciple from a famous sect or great clan,
and he only robbed and killed those independent cultivators at the bottom of society that
didn’t have status or position.

Three years ago, Liang Hu had participated in the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials,
and he knew everything within it like the back of his hand. He knew that at this place where
Bloody Mountain and the Dusty Nightmare Area were connected, he would normally be
able to obtain extremely generous returns when he used the layers of haze to conceal his
group and conduct raids. He entirely didn’t have to waste both physical and mental effort to
hunt baleful beasts to obtain baleful pearls.

Most importantly, so long as he was slightly careful, Liang Hu completely didn’t have to
worry that his identity would be leaked out when he conducted raids here. Even if the
disciples of those sects were to die, their sects would mostly think that they’d died under
the fangs of baleful beasts and wouldn’t place any suspicions onto him.

With such thoughts in his heart, Liang Hu had brought over 10 Congenital Realm
subordinates to participate in the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials this time for the
sake of conducting wanton raids.

Reality was indeed like what Liang Hu thought, in a mere few hours, he’d already robbed
and killed tens of cultivators that were traveling alone, and obtain a great number of baleful
pearls.

Nevertheless, Liang Hu wasn’t blinded by his victories, and he still carefully selected
cultivators that traveled alone as the target for his raids.

However, at this moment, he suddenly realized that those fellows that travel alone aren’t
always weak, and a youth that had a young appearance might not always be a fledgling that
was at his mercy.

Just like… Chen Xi who was before him.

Only an instant had passed since he attacked to the moment he noticed the calm killing
intent that Chen Xi’s eyes emitted, however in this instant, Liang Hu instead had a strong
feeling of extreme danger. He didn’t dare hesitate and fiercely stomped his right foot on the
ground, then used the repulsive force from the stomp to twist his body and swiftly leap
towards the side.
However, it was already too late.

Whoosh!

A breathtaking sword light appeared out of thin air and pierced out with an inconceivable
speed that was swift like lightning.

Liang Hu’s body was still in mid-air when a sword hole suddenly appeared on the right side
of his abdomen and passed straight through his back, causing thick blood to suddenly shoot
out.

“How… How could this be possible? I’d already attained the perfection-stage of the
Congenital Realm eight years ago, how could it be that I’m unable to block even a single
strike?” Liang Hu fell onto the ground and lowered his head to gaze at the injury on his
right abdomen that blood surged out from, and his face was filled with disbelief.

“Boss!”

“Boss is injured?”

“How could this be possible!?”

Liang Hu’s subordinates were stunned when they saw their Boss’s attack failed and instead
was pierced by the sword of their enemy, and only now did they jolt awake from their
shock and exclaim out in surprise.

Liang Hu was their leader, and a cultivation at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm
already stood at the peak ranks within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, but he was
instead injured and fell to the ground within a single move. This…this was simply an
inconceivable matter!

Immediately, within the eyes of these bandits that lived a bloody life at the tip of their
blade, that youth that stood there holding a sword seemed to instantly transform from a
little fat sheep into a cold-hearted expert, and it caused their hearts to palpitate in fear.

Actually, with Chen Xi’s current cultivation, if he were to really battle Liang Hu, he didn’t
dare guarantee being able to heavily injure Liang Hu with a single move. The only reason
he was able to achieve it so easily this time was a result of his formidable Perception Force.

Early on when he heard the shouts of Liang Hu’s group, he’d used his Perception Force to
sweep through the surroundings. His Perception Force that was comparable to that of a
Violet Palace Realm cultivator was able to clearly search through an area of 50 kilometers,
and he’d utterly not found a shadow of a baleful beast pack. How could he possibly fall for
Liang Hu’s trap?
Whereas Liang Hu was completely unaware of this and only took Chen Xi to be an
inexperienced fledgling. Under his carelessness and lowered guard, he was naturally
injured within a single move by Chen Xi who’d already gained insight into the matter.

Step! Step! Step!

Steady and rhythmic footsteps sounded about, and Chen Xi had an icy cold expression as
he held his sword in hand and walked forward with a heart filled with surging killing intent.

He didn’t have the slightest bit of a favorable impression towards these bandits that raided
and killed people. If it wasn’t for his formidable Perception Force that had noticed
something was not right, he’d nearly fallen for their trap and lost his life on the spot. At this
moment, how could he possibly let these fellows off so easily?

Liang Hu forcefully endured the violent pain as he crawled up from the ground and shouted
out explosively. “Brothers, attack! No matter how formidable he is, he’s only a single
person. Kill him and the baleful pearls in his possession will be ours!”

“Boss is right, he’s only a single person, what’re we afraid of?”

“Right! This kid might have a large number of baleful pearls in his possession!”

“Kill!”

The ferociousness of the bandits was successfully aroused, and they all had gazes of
insanity as they besieged Chen Xi.

Chen Xi’s was emotionless as always. Having cultivated bitterly within the southern
barbaric mountain forests every night for the past three months while fighting life and death
battles with numerous Congenital Realm greater demons had caused him to already forget
how many injuries he’d received, and how much fresh blood he’d sprayed.

The live combat experience that Chen Xi tempered through slaughter and bloodshed had
caused Chen Xi to enter combat status the instant he decided to get into combat.

No hesitation, delay, or spouting any nonsense, all of his concentration was locked onto the
slaughter that was approaching, and his mind was calm and filled with killing intent.

“Die!”

Chen Xi’s wrist nimbly revolved as he stepped using the Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps,
and the Azurebolt sword in his hand transformed into innumerable sword silhouettes that
were like a squally shower, and it sprayed down swiftly and fiercely like a hurricane.
The bandits noticed in terror that within their field of vision, innumerable sword silhouettes
were like a large net made of sharp blades that arrived before them in an instant, causing
them to be unable to dodge.

Pu! Pu! Pu!

In the air, a string of thick blood was like spraying lava as it shot out violently wherever he
passed.

The diligent and bitter training during these past three months caused Chen Xi’s Chaotic
Windsplit Sword Technique to have attained the advanced-stage since a long time ago. In
terms of the profundity of his sword technique, it was comparable to that of a Violet Palace
Realm cultivator, and it was far from something these useless bandits could compare to.

When Chen Xi had assessed his combat strength within the Self-Reflection Diary he wrote
every day, he’d labeled himself as being invincible under the Violet Palace Realm. Even
the spirit of the Manor, Ji Yu, who’d lived for nearly one million years and possessed a
hypercritical eye didn’t raise any doubts towards this. Thus it could be seen to what degree
Chen Xi’s combat strength had transformed to.

Cough… Cough…

The pupils of the six bandits before him abruptly dilated, and their expressions were stiff
and savage. A bloody hole was pierced through all their throats, and they emitted a hoarse
and horrifying shrill cry before crashing onto the ground.

Even until death, they’d never imagined that Chen Xi’s sword technique would actually be
so swift, swift to the point they hadn’t even attacked when they fell lifeless on the ground.

The weapons held up by the remaining five bandits froze mid-air, and they stared blankly at
their companions whose corpses lay scattered on the ground. An inexplicably large fear that
felt like two shapeless hands choking their throats surged throughout their bodies, and they
actually forgot to breathe!

Even though they were bandits, not all of them had cultivations at the Congenital realm. It
wasn’t that they’d never encountered a ferocious person that was difficult to handle within
the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, but they were usually able to obtain the final victory
by relying on their numbers. However, at this moment, when they were faced with Chen Xi
who had killing intent filled between his brows, only now did they notice that such a wide
gap actually existed between two Congenital Realm cultivators!

Dead!

In the blink of an eye, six of our Congenital realm companions have all died…
Their fighting spirit fell like an avalanche as they gazed at Chen Xi who was like a devil,
and the five bandits all emitted a sharp cry of terror before desiring to flee.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

The Azurebolt Sword was like fluttering mist as the blurred sword light brought along a
sharp howl, and it easily pierced through the backs of the five bandits, causing blood to
shoot out wherever it passed.

During these past three months of carrying out life and death battles with those ferocious
and cunning Congenital Realm greater demons had allowed Chen Xi to understand an
extremely important principle: Refraining from holding back in the slightest when dealing
with enemies and making sure to kill his enemies as swiftly as possible was always the
safest method.

He didn’t hold back. Within his eyes, these extremely violent and wicked bandits were a
group of animals, and their deaths were nothing to be regretted!

Liang Hu had long since been muddled by everything that had happened before him, and
when he saw Chen Xi holding the Azurebolt Sword that still dripped blood droplets and
walked over, his legs shivered before falling to kneel on the ground with a thump, then he
emitted an extremely frightened shout. “I’ll hand over all the baleful pearls. Please don’t
kill me, Young Hero!”

Chen Xi remained completely indifferent, and his expression was extremely cold and
indifferent.

“I’ll fight you with my life!” Liang Hu couldn’t help but laugh grievously when he saw
Chen Xi was so resolute. Under the stimulation of fear from his approaching demise, he
suddenly leaped up and a pitch-black dagger suddenly appeared within his hand, then he
pounced forward before fiercely stabbing his dagger towards Chen Xi’s Dantian.

Whoosh!

A sword light flew out and Liang Hu’s head separated from his body and flew high up into
the air. A pillar of blood that was as thick as a baby’s arm rushed out from his severed neck
and splattered all over the ground.

Up to this point, Liang Hu’s group of bandits had all been killed on the spot!

If someone saw this scene, they would surely be shocked by Chen Xi’s viciousness and
decisiveness.

“They actually have over 10,000 baleful pearls. These fellows have most probably robbed
and killed quite a number of cultivators here. Truly a heinous crime! They deserved death!”
Chen Xi found a Hundred Treasure Bag from Liang Hu’s corpse and briefly sized it up. At
the same time that he was surprised at the large number of baleful pearls within, he was
even more disgusted in his heart of these bandits that were full of sin.

“Within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, no matter how a person’s cultivation was,
their strength would surely be restricted at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm. I
presume Su Jiao and Li Huai are the same as well. But the two of them are Violet Palace
Realm cultivators after all, and are even core disciples of great clans. They presumably
have various formidable trump cards. If I were to encounter these two people, I wonder
who would be the victor…?”

After tossing all the baleful pearls he obtained into his storage ring, Chen Xi silently
pondered for a moment before shaking his head, then turned around and left.

When he returned to their campsite, Du Qingxi’s group of three just happened to have
finished eating. When they saw Chen Xi return, they utterly never imagined that he’d just
experienced a bloody battle, and they greeted him before departing.

Chen Xi naturally would not speak out about what had happened, and he followed closely
behind them. After walking for the time an incense stick to burn, the surrounding scenery
abruptly changed.

The originally lead gray sky suddenly turned dark red, and an oppressive and irritable aura
brought along a burning hot stream of air as it assaulted their faces.

There weren’t any layers of haze here anymore, and their field of vision was extremely
vast. Chen Xi was able to see the faraway mountains that towered into the sky and the
enormous rocks that were of bizarre shapes, sand still fluttering about on the ground that
was devoid of life.

Terrifying roars vaguely sounded out from far away, and when interlaced together with the
dark red sky, it caused one to feel extremely stifled.

“We will be entering Bloody Mountain from now onwards. True danger and slaughter is
about to begin. Watch out everyone.” A voice that was chilly as ice echoed out. Du Qingxi
gazed at everything in the distance that was like a blood colored world, and her expression
was filled with seriousness.
Chapter 41 - Bloodbath City

Bloody Mountain, before a gorge.

Ten plus cultivators crowded around them, and the skinny middle aged man in the lead
suggested. “Fellow Daoists, please wait. There’s an entire pack of over 100 baleful beasts
concealed within this Bloodbath Gorge.  How about we team up to hunt them and share the
baleful pearls we obtain?”

Du Qingxi didn’t have any intention of stopping as she said coldly, “I’m sorry, we still have
matters to attend to.”

“Haha, Miss, don’t refuse so quickly. What matters could be more important than earning
money? After all, with our strength, hunting that pack of baleful beasts is nothing difficult.
Fellow Daoists, all of you seem heroic and extraordinary. If you join us, you’ll surely be
able to obtain considerable returns.” The skinny middle aged man continued to guide them
patiently.

Pity couldn’t help but arise within Chen Xi’s heart as he gazed at the cultivators that
crowded over.

Du Qingxi didn’t say anything else; Duanmu Ze who wore white clothes and had a smile on
his face walked forward, then beamed as he said, “Everyone, unfortunately, I have to tell all
of you that you’ve chosen the wrong target to raid this time.”

“Bah! What the hell? Comply or die!” The skinny middle aged man’s face went grim, then
he sneered as he snapped his fingers. The expression of those cultivators that had crowded
over all suddenly went vicious and their eyes emitted a fierce light.

“I’ll give all of you one last chance, hand over all your baleful pearls and scram! Right,
leave that woman, she’s just nice for us to vent some steam.” The skinny middle aged man
let out a strange laugh as he gave the last ultimatum.

“You actually dare insult Qingxi? Truly courting death!” Duanmu Ze’s face went cold
when he saw the skinny middle aged man actually coveting Du Qingxi, and a rainbow
colored sword appeared out of thin air within his hand.

Om!

The Sevenstar Rainbow Sword that contained oppressive spirit energy emitted an
unparalleled fierce aura, and it lightly vibrated in Duanmu Ze’s hand; it seemed to
desperately want to fly out and drink the blood of its enemies.
In an instant, the disposition of Duanmu Ze who held a sword changed. The slight smile at
the corners of his mouth transformed into a wisp of an icy cold sneer, and he seemed to
become an unsheathed sharp sword that leaped forward!

“Go! Let’s kill this kid first!” The pupils of the skinny middle aged man constricted when
he felt that change in Duanmu Ze’s aura, and he knew he’d encountered a formidable foe.
He didn’t dare hesitate and shouted out explosively, then he held his dual sabers in his
hands to whip out balls of sword ripples that enveloped right towards Duanmu Ze’s head.

“Kill!” The other cultivators brandished their weapons as well and crowded over towards
Duanmu Ze.

When faced with such a situation, Du Qingxi’s expression was calm and Song Lin looked
dazed and sleepy. Chen Xi instead gazed at those raiding cultivators with pity.

Aren’t these kids companions? They actually allowed him to give away his life alone? The
skinny middle aged man glanced over at them with the corners of his vision, and when he
saw Du Qingxi and the others looking on unconcerned, he couldn’t help but be slightly
stunned.

“Alkaid!” The moment when the skinny middle aged man was briefly dazed, a low chant
abruptly sounded within his ears. When he recovered from his shock, he saw 100,000
unparalleled fierce sword lights had enveloped his surroundings and billowing baleful qi
assaulted his face.

Clang! Clonk! Clink! Crack!

A string of dense sounds of metal breaking like popcorn sounded out abruptly, and all the
weapons within the hands of the cultivators that had surrounded to besiege Duanmu Ze had
snapped at the hilt.

Could it be that the sword in this fellow’s hand is a graded Magic Treasure?

All the cultivators that had surrounded him, including the skinny middle aged man, all
revealed astonishment, then their entire bodies were filled with boundless coldness and
terror. He was at such a young age and possesses a graded Magic Treasure. Could it be that
he’s a core disciple from those great sects or great clans?

“Die!” Duanmu Ze swept the group of stunned cultivators in disdain, then his wrist lightly
trembled and instantly pierced out ten plus sword lights that flowed out like water and shot
out.

Pu! Pu! Pu! Pu!

A string of blood shot out into the air, the skinny middle aged man and his companions
hadn’t even made sense of Duanmu Ze’s identity when they felt pain in their chest and
there was already a bloody hole at the location of their hearts, then their pupils dilated
before crashing onto the ground.

“Learning to rob others with just this little cultivation, truly extremely laughable!” Duanmu
Ze shook his head in disdain, then he elegantly turned around and didn’t take another
glance at the corpses on the ground and instructed, “You, clean up the scene.”

Chen Xi swiftly walked up and started to skillfully gather the baleful pearls in the
possession of these cultivators.

Since they’d entered Bloody Mountain, they’d encountered the raiding of group after group
of cultivators that lacked a discerning eye. These cultivators weaved together various
reasons with an objective of none other than to seize the baleful pearls in the possession of
others.

When faced with such a situation, Duanmu Ze naturally couldn’t stand idly by and watch.

Of course, it was mainly for the sake of showing off his graceful bearing and formidable
strength in front of Du Qingxi, and all those enemies were taken on by him, utterly not
allowing Chen Xi and the others a chance to make a move. He single handedly went into
battle, relying on the high-grade martial technique, Big Dipper Sword Scripture, that was
passed down within his clan and the graded Magic Treasure, Sevenstar Rainbow Sword, in
his possession, to easily wipe out all the enemies and bask in the limelight.

As for those people that were extremely formidable, their group of four never encountered
a single one and could be considered to be extremely lucky.

Young Master Duanmu felt himself to be above gathering wealth from the corpses of his
enemies, and he passed the battle clean-up duty to Chen Xi. For the sake of baleful pearls
and the Netherezim Baleful Qi within, Chen Xi didn’t have any reason to refuse, and after
experiencing it a few times, his technique in extracting wealth from the dead became even
more proficient…

“This gorge is named bloodbath, and there’s a simple city behind this gorge that we can rest
in. We have to speed up and hurry over there. Otherwise, once night falls, all the baleful
beast packs that are concealed in the shadows will move out to wreak havoc upon every
inch of these lands. Even if our cultivation was any higher, we would still be drowned in
the extremely terrifying sea of baleful beasts.” Du Qingxi looked at the jade slip map in her
hand, and when she saw Chen Xi having finished cleaning up the scene, she didn’t delay in
the slightest and walked towards the depths of the gorge right away.

“There’s a city here?” Chen Xi couldn’t help but ask on the way.

“Exactly, there’s already been nearly 10,000 years of history since the Southern Barbaric
Nether Domain appeared. For the sake of getting through the terrifying night within Bloody
Mountain, numerous cultivators gathered together 1,000 years ago to jointly build
numerous defensive campsites. After experiencing the renovation, reinforcement, and
expansion of cultivators of the later generations, the current cities were formed.”

“So that’s how it is.” Chen Xi nodded. True Essence would surely be expended when
hunting baleful beasts, and the spirit energy within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain
was exhausted, not to mention the baleful qi that billowed to the sky. Not only did
replenishing True Essence require bringing along spirit stones and medicinal pills, it also
required a safe environment and time to absorb the spirit energy within and cultivate. The
appearance of a city undoubtedly solved this problem extremely well.

The following journey was carried out in silence. Chen Xi’s group of four passed through
the gorge that was 500 km long and arrived at a vast plain.

On the way here, Chen Xi’s group had encountered a few other cultivators. Before Chen
Xi’s group could react to them, they would move far away to avoid Chen Xi’s group as
soon as they met, like birds that were startled by the mere twang of a bowstring. Their eyes
emitted dense vigilance and alertness.

Cultivators that are able to arrive here have undoubtedly experienced numerous raids and
desperate battles for a while now. I presume their strength would be extremely
extraordinary as well, and looking at the direction they’re heading towards, they’re also
moving to enter that city as soon as possible… So many cultivators gathered together, I
wonder if murders and slaughters still occur there…? Chen Xi silently thought about the
things weighing his mind, but his feet weren’t slow in the slightest. Under the lead of Du
Qingxi, they dashed forward for nearly two hours before finally seeing the outline of the
city that appeared extremely far away.

As she gazed at the city that emitted an ancient and historical charm, Du Qingxi’s footsteps
slightly slowed down, and her chilly voice entered into the ears of Chen Xi and the others.
“This is the first city in Bloody Mountain, Bloodbath City. According to my calculations,
there are at least 5,000 cultivators that have gathered there this time. These cultivators have
come from different places and there are both strong and weak people mixed within. We
must be cautious once we enter.”

Chen Xi lightly nodded. Fights existed wherever people were. Everyone was here for the
sake of obtaining baleful pearls, and once a conflict broke out, it would absolutely be a
situation where it would not stop until one party died.

However, Chen Xi wasn’t afraid of all this. With his current strength, he could safely
retreat even when facing a Violet Palace Realm cultivator, not to mention this was the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain that restricted cultivations and the highest cultivations
were only at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm.

In next to no time, the four of them arrived before Bloodbath City.

Unlike the cities in the outside world, although Bloodbath City carried the word ‘city’ in its
name, its size was no different to a village. Solid walls that were nearly 33m high
surrounded the city in all directions and there was only a single heavy iron gate in the
center that allowed passage in and out of the city.

But at this moment, the city gate was completely congested as a dispute seemed to have
broken out ahead and it caused the numerous cultivators to stand and watch here.

“Li Huai, what do you want to do? Kill us to keep our mouths shut?” An enraged voice
sounded out from within the crowd, and Chen Xi couldn’t help but be stunned. Li Huai?
This fellow actually came to Bloodbath City as well…

Chen Xi walked forward and briefly sized up the scene, and he really did see Li Huai.
Moreover, in the space opposite of Li Huai, he even saw three familiar faces — The
Redleaf Institution’s Lu Shaocong, Qu Cheng, and Duan Ying.

At this moment, these three people’s faces were filled with rage, but their gazes upon Li
Huai were also filled with fear.

When Chen Xi met the three of them the first time, they only had cultivations at the
perfection-stage of the Postnatal Realm. Merely three months had passed. Even if they’d
advanced into the Congenital Realm, they still were absolutely not a match for Li Huai
who’d advanced to the Violet Palace Realm.

“Hmph! Could it be that all of you have forgotten the incident from three months ago? Not
only did all of you spoil an important matter of my Li Clan, you even caused my Li Clan to
painfully lose a precious treasure. Tell me, would I let all of you off?” Li Huai smiled
coldly.

Spoil an important matter of the Li Clan? Could he be speaking of the matter of me forcing
Manager Wu to retreat from Spiritcave Lake and saving the ‘tributes’ the Li Clan wanted
to sacrifice? At that time, I arranged for Lu Shaocong’s group of three to escort those
people back to Pine Mist City. I presume that the Li Clan noticed them after they entered
Pine Mist City… A flash of insight abruptly flashed within Chen Xi’s mind, and he finally
understood what had happened, then flames of rage arose within his heart. This matter was
caused by me, but it caused Lu Shaocong’s group of three to be implicated. The methods of
the Li Clan are really too shameless and despicable!

“Since all of you have nothing to say…” At the moment that Chen Xi was pondering, Li
Huai suddenly took a step forward, his right hand lightly grasped onto his sword as a sharp
killing intent surged out from his body.

“Then die!” Accompanied by his voice, Li Huai drew his sword and moved forward. The
tip of his sword whistled with a cold gleam as it casually transformed into fine bright lights
that covered the sky; it seemed to have transformed into a myriad of green and luxuriant
pine needles that cut open the sky as it headed straight towards Lu Shaocong’s group of
three.

True Essence condensed into sword lights that were as thin as needles, Li Huai’s sword
technique had obviously attained the advanced-stage. He only lightly pierced with his
sword, but it was grand, majestic, and extremely orderly. It also instantly locked onto all
the paths of retreat of Lu Shaocong’s group of three.

Lu Shaocong’s group of three obviously never expected that Li Huai would be so vicious
and resolute, and would attack arbitrarily. They were instantly caught off guard, they stared
blankly at the sword lights that covered the sky as it flew towards them, and they actually
forgot to dodge…

Could it be that we’re going to die like this?

At the moment between life and death, the same thought arose in unison within the minds
of the three.
Chapter 42 - Chen Xi’s Rage

Bloodbath City was the first city after entering Bloody Mountain.

On this first day that the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain was opened, so long as it was a
cultivator that survived through the Dusty Nightmare Area, then they would mostly head
towards Bloodbath City.

As the only gate to Bloodbath City, there were already a large number of cultivators
gathered here.

Li Huai choosing to fight here had undoubtedly obstructed the paths of everyone. But at
this moment, no one cared, as liking to watch a scene was a common character of humans,
and cultivators were no exception. At this moment, they all stood in the distance and
watched on with their arms crossed before their chests.

The moment Li Huai drew his sword, the grand and majestic imposing manner of his sword
drew numerous gazes of surprise, as everyone felt that beneath this sword, those three
Redleaf Institution disciples that had obviously been scared stiff would surely die on the
spot.

Some people had already revealed expression of being unable to bear to watch what was
about to happen.

Om!

Right at this moment, a sound that was like the roar of a dragon abruptly sounded out, and a
wisp of a black shadow suddenly leaped into the battle. The sword in the hand of the black
figure was like the Milky Way in the nine heavens as it swept out with a loud bang.

Clank! Clank! Clank! Clank!

A string of dense, ear piercing sounds shook up the surrounding, after which everyone saw
the myriad of sword lights that were like raindrops in the sky had all shattered and
vanished. Whereas before Lu Shaocong’s group of three, there shockingly stood a tall
youth.

“Fuck! That sure kill sword strike was actually fully blocked. There’s a good show to see
now!”

“Eh, why is it the jinx, Chen Xi? When did he become so formidable?”

“Formidable? Jinx is courting death! That Li Huai is the eldest son from the number one
great clan of Pine Mist City, the Li Clan. Since he came out of closed door cultivation three
months ago, he’d already attained the Violet Palace Realm. I presume he’s consumed
something similar to an Essenceseal Pill to enter the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. But
even then, he’s still able to annihilate most perfection-stage Congenital Realm cultivators.
Tell me, if Jinx isn’t courting death, then what’s he doing?”

“What’s he doing?” Hearing the discussions from the surroundings, Duanmu Ze frowned as
he gazed at Chen Xi, then said with a ridiculing tone, “Stupidly charging forward to rescue
others. Could it be that he’s thinking that he has our protection, so he can act willfully?”

Du Qingxi didn’t say anything as she was bewildered in her heart as well.

Song Lin who’d always been in a drowsy state was now in high spirits and his eyes were
bright as they gazed at Chen Xi while he spoke out in heartfelt admiration. “The people of
ancient times were compassionate and warm hearted; they were full of virtue and a sense of
justice. The food Chen Xi makes is tasty and his heart is extremely good as well, I can be
happy throughout my lifetime with such a friend.”

Du Qingxi and Duanmu Ze were both stunned when they heard this and they fell into
silence.

Is he overestimating himself? But, I ask myself, why is he doing this?

When everyone differentiates their interpersonal relationship based on benefits and

strength, isn’t it a lucky thing to be able to have such a person that flings caution in the
wind for the sake of his friends?

Chen Xi was utterly clueless that his actions had moved Du Qingxi and Duanmu Ze so
greatly.

He was currently on the alert and combat ready, and he had no time to pay attention to the
surroundings.

Lu Shaocong’s group of three had already retreated from the battlefield. They felt gratitude
from the bottom of their hearts towards Chen Xi who’d saved them once again, and they
knew that if they continued to stay within the battlefield at this moment, they would only be
a distraction to Chen Xi and were of no benefit to the battle.

However, they’d already decided since long ago, that if misfortune were to befall Chen Xi,
then even if the three of them had to lay down their lives, they would still put their bodies
before Chen Xi, and make sure to win a slight opportunity for Chen Xi to survive. Because
Chen Xi was worthy of them doing so!

“I was originally still thinking how to capture you and help Miss Su vent her anger. But
now, you’ve come over on your own accord. You’ve truly given me a pleasant surprise.”
Li Huai’s long hair was scattered on his shoulder and he had a cold and indifferent
expression as he gazed at Chen Xi as if gazing at something dead. Then he raised the sword
in his hand before slowly pointing it at Chen Xi. “This sword is called Pine Ripple, and it’s
a graded Magic Treasure. Do you dare fight me?”

A mere sentence fully expressed the arrogance and conceit of Li Huai, and it brought about
cheers from everyone in the surroundings.

“Fight!”

Someone within the crowd cried out in a loud voice.

“Fight! Fight! Fight!”

The fervor of the surrounding crowd was instantly lit ablaze, and they all shouted out
loudly with voices that shot into the sky, causing all the far away cultivators to look over.
In the end, the other cultivators were unable to suppress the curiosity in their hearts and
they all rushed over.

“Why would I not dare?” Chen Xi took a deep breath and said coldly.

Along with Chen Xi finishing his words, the surrounding voices instantly vanished and
only the whistling of the wind remained. An oppressive and strained atmosphere silent
suffused out into the surroundings, everyone was set for a showdown!

The two parties that were confronting each other had gazes filled with intense hostility, and
this caused everyone to be even more excited. Their gazes shot out in unison towards the
two people that were in conflict, and they stared unblinkingly, seeming to be extremely
afraid of missing even a slight detail.

Li Huai was the eldest son of the Li Clan who possessed extraordinary natural talent and
possessed both a good foundation and a good constitution. He’d already advanced to the
Violet Palace Realm at a young age and was absolutely one of the leading figures amongst
the younger generation of Pine Mist City. Whereas, although everyone unanimously didn’t
look favorably on Chen Xi, it was of no importance, as what everyone anticipated the most
was actually Li Huai’s show.

It’s the Violet Palace Realm!

Most of the people present had a strength that was around the Congenital Realm, and they
were undoubtedly filled with curiosity towards the combat ability of a Violet Palace Realm
cultivator. They knew that this was a superb opportunity to learn as they would completely
have no chance at any other time.

“Wait.” But, right at the instant the battle was on the verge of breaking out, a tranquil voice
sounded out from atop the city wall and it caused a wave of displeasure in the crowd.
What the fuck? Coming out to disturb the battle at this time, isn’t that too brainless?

However, when they raised their heads and glanced over, the displeasure in their hearts
instantly vanished.

They saw a young woman in black clothes standing on the city wall, her sweet and
charming appearance seemed to be covered in a layer of an enchanting and alluring sheen
under the dark red sky, and it was shockingly the genius from the Dragon Lake City’s Su
Clan, Su Jiao.

Cang Bin was beside Su Jiao. This young man that was reputed as the Little Sword Devil
stood atop the city wall with eyes and brows that contained fiendishness. Although he
hadn’t said a word, the domineering and ferocious aura on his body instead caused others to
be unable to overlook him.

These two people were core disciples from the six great clans of Dragon Lake City.
Compared to them, Li Huai wasn’t able to compare with them, regardless of if it was status,
identity, or his level of cultivation. At this moment when Su Jiao came forward to interrupt
the battle, even though everyone wanted to get angry, they were helpless.

However, what Su Jiao said next instead once again lit up the fervor within the hearts of
everyone present.

“Fellow Daoist Li Huai’s strength isn’t bad, but Fellow Daoist Chen Xi’s strength isn’t bad
either. If a battle that’s the focus of attention of everyone isn’t set off by a wager, then
wouldn’t it be too tasteless?”

Su Jiao’s fine eyes held a smile as she glanced fluidly around the crowd, and after she
finished speaking, she didn’t ask Chen Xi if he agreed before speaking loudly to the
surrounding people. “What does everyone think of my suggestion?”

It was normal for her to say that Li Huai’s strength wasn’t bad, but saying Chen Xi’s
strength wasn’t bad caused most people to be astonished. Earlier, although Chen Xi
successfully saved Lu Shaocong’s group of three from Li Huai, that was obtaining success
by seizing the opportunity of Li Huai being unprepared and taking him by surprise. How
could he be a match for Li Huai in a true battle?

Under these circumstances where the outcome of the battle could be roughly determined,
putting in an extra wager was obviously an unnecessary action and it exceeded the
expectations of everyone.

But when Su Jiao suddenly asked all of them, these fellows that craved for nothing more
than to stir up trouble all shouted at the top of their voices. “It’s good!”
Wager? Duanmu Ze couldn’t help but be amused. This was no battle, it was virtually like
fighting in the ring for the bride. But Du Qingxi who was staring at the battle didn’t feel
amused in the slightest.

A few simple words from Su Jiao and Chen Xi had fallen into the state of having no way to
back down. If he were to shrink back now, then he would surely be crowned with the
reputation of being cowardly. Moreover, all the people here would probably not agree to it.

Most importantly, practically everyone knew that when Chen Xi was born, he was
betrothed to Su Jiao. Although the marriage contract had already been destroyed, when
faced with the suggestion of Su Jiao who was his former ‘fiancée’ in name, If Chen Xi were
to shrink back, it would undoubtedly be telling everyone — Look, how could a pussy like
this be worthy of the Eldest Young Miss of the Su Clan? His marriage contract being
destroyed was only an action the Su Clan had no choice but to do.

“What’s the wager?” Chen Xi stared at Su Jiao who was atop the city wall with an
emotionless gaze, and his voice was indifferently like an icy cold machine.

“It’s very simple. If you lose, then hand over the Nether Enlightenment Token, cripple your
own cultivation and apologize to me in acknowledgment that the marriage contract between
you and me being destroyed was completely your fault.” Right after Chen Xi finished
speaking, Su Jiao said in a straightforward manner, seeming as if she’d thought of these
conditions since a long time ago.

Nether Enlightenment Token!

There were several tens of people whose expressions focused when they heard these words,
Their gazes all shot at Chen Xi and a wisp of indescribable greed arose within their eyes.

Nether Enlightenment Token? I never expected that Chen Xi actually had one in his
possession… But these conditions are too venomous. She’s obviously doing these because
she wants to ruthlessly humiliate Chen Xi in front of everyone!

Du Qingxi’s beautiful brows frowned, then she looked at Chen Xi, but she instead saw his
expression was indifferent as before and she was unable to discern what he thought in his
heart.

Chen Xi did indeed possess a Nether Enlightenment Token, he’d obtained it from the two-
headed Violet Rhino greater demon and he’d not understood its effects all along. But at this
moment, his attention wasn’t on this.

His entire mind was as if struck by thunder when he heard the last condition that Su Jiao
put forward.

The scenes of his marriage contract being destroyed surged into his mind — the disdainful
gazes of the Su Clan cultivators, the pained and miserable appearance of his grandfather,
the loud laughter of the surrounding people, the shreds of the marriage contract that drifted
gracefully through the air…

She instead took this as a condition, having no scruples about it being in front of everyone,
and she wants me to acknowledge that all this was my fault?

Every word of what Su Jiao said entered ever so clearly into Chen Xi’s ears and fiercely
hammered onto his heart. He felt his mind explode with a bang, and a burst of courage
surged up from within him. There was anger held within his chest, and this anger
accumulated to become stronger and stronger, to the point that the pores in his entire body
were filled to the point they grew rapidly and were on the verge of splitting.

At this moment, as he gazed at the sweet and charming young girl that stood atop the city
wall, Chen Xi had a strong urge to blast her to pieces!

But, his expression was unusually calm, calm to the point there wasn’t even a slight ripple
or fluctuation, like a pool of stagnant water. His pair of eyes were empty and gray like ash,
and not a trace of emotion could be discerned from him.

If Chen Hao was here, he would surely understand that his brother was enraged!
Completely enraged! Because no one knew how strong the rage and killing intent hidden
behind his brother’s pair of empty eyes were!

Everyone that had waited silently for a long time finally heard Chen Xi speak.

His low and deep voice surged with a force that caused one’s heart to palpitate. “I’ll agree
to your conditions, but I similarly have conditions of my own.”

“Speak. Although the marriage contract between the two of us has been destroyed, so long
as your conditions don’t go too far, I can agree to all of them.” Su Jiao lightly smiled, and
her sweet and charming face was dyed in boundless flirtation, teasing to the point that the
minds of everyone became unsettled.

“Establish a vow of the heart under the Dao of the Heavens before everyone. Truthfully
answer three questions of mine. If there’s any deception, then face the wrath of the
heavens!” Chen Xi spoke word by word and his expression became even calmer, as if he
was stating something that was not related to him in the slightest.
Chapter 43 - Fight!

Three questions?

Most of the people present were clearly confused when they heard Chen Xi’s conditions,
and those people who had dirty minds guessed. Could it be that this kid wasn’t to ask Miss
Su some private questions?

“Audacious! Establish a vow of the heart under the Dao of the Heaven isn’t a trifling
matter! How respected is Miss Su’s identity! Could it be that she must answer anything you
ask? This condition of yours is going too far!” On the city wall, Cang Bin burst in rage and
he shouted out explosively, as an extremely terrifying imposing manner filled the entire
scene, seeming as if the most piercingly cold wave of winter air had suddenly arrived.

Under this domineering and fierce might, the expressions of everyone present went pale,
the legs of some cultivators with comparatively inferior strength went soft and they directly
fell on their butts. The entire scene was in chaos.

Cang Bin’s eyes stared at Chen Xi with overflowing killing intent.

“What? Don’t dare?” Chen Xi who was in the eye of the storm still stayed calm as usual,
his voice was calm and indifferent, without a shred of emotion.

A few words that brought along no emotion instead caused Su Jiao to feel Chen Xi’s
incomparably strong ridicule.

Su Jiao waved her hand to stop Cang Bin that had nearly gone berserk, and said with an icy
cold voice, “Okay, I’ll agree to it. But as far as I’m concerned, this condition is bound to
not be realized.”

After she finished speaking, she shot her gaze at Li Huai and said coldly, “Brother Li, I’ll
leave this battle to you, you’d better not disappoint me.”

“He will surely lose.” Li Huai smiled confidently and the space between his brows was
filled with fierce killing intent. To him, if he were to be victorious in this battle, then he
would undoubtedly be able to win over Su Jiao’s heart. So, he’d already decided that even
if he had to put his life on the line, he would still fiercely trample upon Chen Xi!

“Qingxi, how’s Chen Xi’s cultivation?” Within the crowd, Duanmu Ze frowned as he
asked. There was no disdain within his words any longer, because what Song Lin said
earlier allowed him to have a whole new understanding of Chen Xi.

Du Qingxi was stunned then shook her head. “I only know that he merely has a cultivation
at the Congenital Realm. As for how is his strength, I do not know clearly.”
“Congenital Realm? Then isn’t he utterly finished?” Duanmu Ze himself had a cultivation
at the Violet Palace Realm, thus he was naturally extremely familiar with the ability of a
Violet Palace Realm cultivator. As far as he was concerned, even if Li Huai’s cultivation
was restrained at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm, he was absolutely not
someone Chen Xi could go against. The gap between Realms was something that was
impossible to make up.

“That may not be so. Chen Xi is no ordinary Congenital Realm cultivator, let’s wait and
see.” Song Lin lightly smiled, and his gaze upon Chen Xi had a trace of a strange color.

Du Qingxi and Duanmu Ze both glanced at Song Lin in bewilderment, seeming to have
never expected that Song Lin would have such a high evaluation of Chen Xi.

At this moment, no one present said another word and they all held their breaths. Everyone
knew that the meaning of the battle that was about to begin had already become completely
different.

Chen Xi was expressionless as he silently stood there without moving.

If it wasn’t for him speaking earlier, people might even suspect that he wasn’t alive.

Chen Xi was doing his best to suppress the flames of rage within his body, yet his mind
was surprisingly calm at this moment and this was an extremely strange state. Within his
formidable physique that was tempered to the Congenital Realm by the Universe Starslayer
Body Forging Arts, the blood, bones, and even nerves within his entire body seemed to be
about to burn as they carried along dense yearning.

Yearning to vent the battle intent that caused him to tremble!

He could clearly feel that within his sea of consciousness, the energy of his soul seemed as
if it had become excited and was raging madly. His brain was like ice that was covered by a
ball of flames, and everything including the smallest detail within 50km was completely
reflected within his eyes.

Du Qingxi abruptly noticed that a wisp of color suddenly lit up within Chen Xi’s empty and
indifferent eyes, like a strand of sunlight that had passed through the dense darkness before
dawn. Subsequently, it brightened bit by bit and in almost an instant, these bits of light
gathered within Chen Xi’s eyes to become a raging sea of flames.

Bang!

The grievance and hatred that was suppressed within his heart for 10 over year transformed
into terrifying battle intent that was released without reservation, and with Chen Xi as the
center, a shockingly imposing manner swept out to cover the entire heaven and earth!
At this moment, Chen Xi seemed like a treasured sword whose edge had been completely
revealed; a treasured sword that stood there ramrod straight and even wanted to pierce a
hole through the heavens.

The expression of Li Huai who stood facing Chen Xi went serious, he was able to clearly
feel the incomparably frenzied battle intent of Chen Xi’s and that fierce imposing manner
that was fearless of death!

This fellow wants to fight with his life? Unfortunately, he’s still too green…

Li Huai firmly grasped the Pine Ripple Sword in his hand as cold lights abruptly appeared
within his eyes and the True Essence within his entire body revolved. The air within 10m of
his surroundings was instantly thrown into disorder by the terrifyingly imposing manner
that surged out from his body.

Battle intent billowed and killing intent raged, even the air became incomparably heavy
from the confrontation between Chen Xi and Li Huai. The onlookers were shocked in their
hearts, and they forcefully held their eyes wide open, fearing they would miss a tiny detail
of the battle.

Li Huai took the initiative to attack, the tip of his foot lightly tapped the ground. In the next
moment, his entire body suddenly appeared in mid-air without the slightest sign, and the
Pine Ripple Sword in his hand created a myriad of sword images that swiftly shot straight
downwards like a sharp arrow!

Hiss!

The fierce and swift sword light flashed past and tore open the sky; it emitted an ear
piercing and unpleasantly sharp howl that grew louder by the moment and was like a clear
cry of a white crane.

“Pinecloud Thousand Crane Awl!” A surprised exclamation sounded out from within the
crowd.

Pinecloud Thousand Crane Awl was one of the killer-moves of the intermediate-grade
martial technique, Pinecrane Sword Scripture. This move had already transcended basic-
stage martial techniques to attain the level of advanced-stage. The moment it was executed,
the myriad of sword lights would condense into one, the whistling it emitted as it tore
through the sky sounded out like a tide and seemed like the cries of a group of cranes. The
speed of this move and the greatness of its might was beyond imagination as well.

Normally speaking, only Violet Palace Realm cultivators that were able to fly in the sky
were able to master its essence!

No one had expected that Li Huai would use such a killer-move right off the bat, and at the
same time that they felt shocked, they couldn’t help but start worrying for Chen Xi.
Is this kid able to dodge an advanced-stage sword technique?

Chen Xi didn’t dodge. He raised his head and that pair of eyes of his that was filled with
burning battle intent instantly became crystal-clear and reflected the entire battlefield.

Chen Xi’s enormous Perception Force was like the countless tentacles of an octopus as it
clearly caught all the changes between Li Huai’s sword skill, and in practically an instant
he’d observed a trace of a flaw, and his eyes abruptly lit up.

Chaotic Windsplit Sword Vortex!

Om!

The Azurebolt Sword waved about at a shocking frequency as it drew out countless
perfectly round sword arcs in the air before finally transforming into a vortex of sword
lights.

The vortex revolved madly, and it minced the air to emit dense explosive booms from the
fine shattering of the air.

It was at this moment that Li Huai’s sword strike that was condensed from a myriad of
sword lights tore through the sky to arrive before Chen Xi.

This sword strike was one of Li Huai’s killer-moves. He was confident that even if it was a
cultivator that was similarly at the Violet Palace Realm as him, the cultivator wouldn’t dare
take this sword strike of his head on. In his eyes, Chen Xi who didn’t evade was
undoubtedly courting death!

Crackle! Crackle! Crackle!

However, what Li Huai had never imagined was that the sword strike he condensed from a
myriad of sword light wasn’t able to move forward once it came into contact with the
sword vortex before Chen Xi. Then, he saw the sword vortex before Chen Xi suddenly start
revolving madly like a millstone that was set into motion and ceaselessly weakened the
impulsive force on his sword. The tip of the sword that was covered in a myriad of sword
lights was actually like a candle that melted at a visible speed!

Sword qi vortex? What sword technique is this? Li Huai was shocked inwardly and he
hurriedly withdrew his sword and retreated.

His offensive had fallen apart and if he still didn’t retreat, then he would only be giving his
opponent an opportunity to take advantage of.

Bang!
However, right at the instant Li Huai withdrew his sword and retreated, the sword vortex
before Chen Xi that revolved madly stopped suddenly and exploded with a bang.

The airflow within the entire battlefield shattered with a bang and it emitted a wave of
oppressive booms. The sword qi that was formed from countless perfectly round sword arcs
was like a meteor as it violently shot out, flashing explosively towards Li Huai who was
retreating!

Clang! Clang! Clang! Clang!

The Pine Ripple Sword in Li Huai’s hands was utilized by him to form an impenetrable
barrier before him that even a splash of water could not pass through, and it barely blocked
the swift and fierce sword qi that blotted out the sky and covered the earth as it approached
him. Even though he wasn’t injured, his body was affected by the continuous impulsive
force of the sword qi and he embarrassingly retreated over 30m away.

“How can this be possible, Li Huai’s Pinecloud Thousand Crane Awl was actually taken
head on by this kid!?”

“When did the Jinx become so formidable? That’s a killer-move that’s at the advanced-
stage! Could it be that this kid has always been concealing his strength?”

“Splendid! Li Huai originally planned to put a show of force to Chen Xi with a single
move. But he never expected that he would instead be forced to retreat for over 30m by
Chen Xi. This is truly a great loss of face!”

Within a single move, Chen Xi’s combat strength that was beyond imagination caused
everyone present to feel disbelief. The gazes they shot at Chen Xi carried bewilderment,
surprise, astonishment, disappointment… They seemed to have never expected that the
fellow who they thought  would lose without a doubt would actually explode forth with
such a ferocious combat strength.

“It seems to be… The Chaotic Windsplit Sword Technique?” Duanmu Ze was slightly
unsure as the move that Chen Xi executed had a form similar to the Chaotic Windsplit
Sword Technique, but its style and might had become even better, seeming to already start
taking the shape of a high-grade martial technique.

“I think it’s similar too.” Du Qingxi recalled the scene from before and felt extremely
bewildered as well.

The two of them didn’t know that after Chen Xi purchased the Chaotic Windsplit Sword
Technique’s jade slip, it was improved by Ji Yu, which was as good as being reborn. The
moves had become even more simple and direct, yet its might instead multiplied
explosively.
“The Chaotic Windsplit Sword Technique he cultivated is different from the one sold
commercially, and it ought to have been personally improved by an expert. Even though the
moves are different, its style is even more profound and succinct. It’s extremely
extraordinary.”

Song Lin had a burning gaze as he exclaimed in surprise. “I wonder who that expert is?
This level of ability to transform the normal into extraordinary is probably something only
an almighty expert whose comprehension in the Martial Dao has transcended the mundane
is able to perform.”

Du Qingxi and Duanmu Ze glanced at each other when they heard this, and they both felt it
to be beyond belief. Could it be that there was an extraordinary expert backing Chen Xi?

“Li Huai’s sword technique has already attained the advanced-stage, yet he was forced into
such a sorry state by that trash, Chen Xi. Brother Cang, are you able to perceive the secret
behind it?” Atop the city wall, Su Jiao’s expression was like frost. She was inwardly
astonished by Chen Xi’s combat strength and felt a trace of rage towards Li Huai’s failure.

“Li Huai was careless, the sword technique of that kid has already attained the advanced-
stage and isn't inferior to Li Huai in the slightest. Li Huai was forced into such a sorry state
because of being caught off-guard.”

Cang Bin briefly pondered before continuing. “But we don’t have to worry. Although Li
Huai in unable to utilize the advantage of his Violet Palace Realm cultivation within the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, his True Essence, Magic Treasures, and his other
equipment are absolutely not something that kid is able to go against.”

Su Jiao nodded and didn’t say anything further.

“Looks like I’ve underestimated you.” Li Huai stabilized himself and coldly stared at Chen
Xi who was over 30m away. Being forced to retreat within a single move by trash from an
impoverished family caused Li Huai, who was arrogant and conceited, to feel extreme
humiliation.

At this moment, when he heard the whispers of discussion coming from the surroundings,
his expression became even more icy cold and gloomy; flames of rage suddenly surged up
into his chest and the imposing manner on his body rose explosively!

A sword cry that was like a roar exploded out!

Li Huai openly released his killing intent as the True Essence within his entire body surged.
“After this, I’ll use the sword in my hand to prove how large the gap between us actually
is!”
Chapter 44 - Broken Sword

Whoosh!

As soon as he finished speaking, Li Huai’s figure continuously leaped a few times and
transformed into numerous afterimages. That was the visual error caused from speed
attaining a certain level.

Extremely swift!

Li Huai was like a ghost as he moved about cautiously in an erratic manner. Tiny bits of
sword lights covered his entire body as they fluctuated unsteadily; they were like numerous
sharp arrows that were accumulating force while waiting to be shot.

He appeared to be like the wind as his figure was swift like lightning. He was shockingly
using the ultimate technique passed down by the ancestors of the Li Clan, the Windflash
Illusory Steps!

Within the cultivation world, although cultivation techniques of various grades could be
purchased on the market, there were still some valuable cultivation techniques that were
extremely difficult to purchase by spending spirit stones.

Within those great sects and great clans, the various cultivation techniques and ultimate
techniques that were passed down from ancient times could only be seen and cultivated by
core disciples. Moreover, these great clans and great sects had extremely strict rules. If
anyone were to leak out an ultimate technique without authorization, then a light offense
would warrant the crippling of the offender's cultivation, whereas a heavy offense would
warrant death.

The principle was actually extremely simple: towards any clan or sect, the inheritance of
cultivation techniques was its foundation and the leaking of cultivation techniques or other
inheritances was undoubtedly self-destruction of its foundation.

At this moment, the move Li Huai executed was precisely the ultimate technique of his own
clan, an extraordinarily valuable high-grade footwork technique that recorded in detail the
three stages of basic-stage, advanced-stage, and unity-stage.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

Li Huai’s figure was covered in layers of sword lights as he moved using his Windflash
Illusory Steps. He was like a hedgehog covered in spikes, and the numerous sword lights
that glowed with a cold light shot out violently.

Due to his movement technique being too swift and him moving around Chen Xi’s
surroundings, these sword lights tore through the sky with extremely crafty and vicious
trajectories, seeming to approach Chen Xi from every direction. These sword lights locked
onto Chen Xi’s throat, eyes, heart, abdomen, back, and the back of Chen Xi’s head,
seeming to have already taken Chen Xi to be a target board.

Want to fucking suppress me with your movement technique?

A trace of bright light bloomed with Chen Xi’s indifferent and empty pupils, then his body
abruptly leaped out, and at the same time his limbs were like twisting and swaying branches
of a willow when blown upon by violent winds, and he charged towards the far away Li
Huai with a strange posture.

“Faced with an attack of sword lights that cover the heaven and earth, and left no openings.
This fellow doesn’t know to defend, but wants to charge forward. Could it be that he has a
death wish?” Someone within the crowd couldn’t help but cry out in a sharp voice.

However, the person had only just finished speaking when he suddenly noticed that while
Chen Xi charged forward, although Chen Xi’s posture was strange and hideous, Chen Xi
was always able to precisely dodge the sword lights that had locked onto him. Chen Xi was
like a slippery and hideous loach, moving and leaping within the smallest of gaps. Even
though his clothes were torn to shreds, his entire body didn’t receive a single injury. He was
completely unharmed!

“This is… Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps?” Duanmu Ze asked in shock, and at the
moment he spoke, he felt a burst of embarrassment within his heart. What’s wrong with me
today? I’m constantly losing my composure. I’m virtually like an idiot that hasn’t seen the
world…

Duanmu Ze wouldn’t have lost his composure like this if what Chen Xi executed was a
type of rare cultivation technique. After all, there were nearly 100 billion cultivators and
over 10 million sects or institutions within the entire territory of Darchu Dynasty.
Cultivation techniques were naturally numerous like a river of stars and were uncountable.
Even those almighty cultivators weren’t able to recognize all the cultivation techniques in
the world.

Whereas the reason Duanmu Ze lost his composure was due to the Chaotic Windsplit
Sword Technique and Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps that Chen Xi had executed. These
cultivation methods were all ordinary and could be bought on the market, but after they
were executed by Chen Xi, not only did their style and essence completely change, even
their might had risen explosively. They seemed to not be inferior to some valuable high-
grade martial techniques. Under these circumstance, Duanmu Ze was nearly unable to
believe his own eyes, and thus the loss of composure was unavoidable.

Du Qingxi was similarly bewildered, but she was able to maintain her composure because
she knew that the nearby Song Lin would surely give her a satisfying answer.
As expected, after he saw the Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps Chen Xi executed that was
beyond recognition, Song Lin’s eyes grew even brighter as he muttered in excitement,
“There’s surely an expert with exceedingly high comprehension in the Martial Dao behind
this kid. The expert is actually able to improve the Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps by one
grade, truly too formidable!”

Rip!

The clothes on his body were torn off once again, but Chen Xi’s expression remained
unfazed as he executed the advanced-stage Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps to the limit,
outdoing Li Huai’s Windflash Illusory Steps.

This fellow’s footwork is so formidable as well?

Li Huai was once again shocked inwardly, then he secretly gritted his teeth and the sword
lights that shot out violently from his Pine Ripple Sword grew denser, like a dense
torrential rain that enveloped the ceaselessly approaching Chen Xi.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Chen Xi’s pressure abruptly skyrocketed when faced with the practically insane sword light
attacks of Li Huai. When faced with some sword lights that he was unable to dodge, the
Azurebolt Sword in his right hand seemed as if it had eyes, and it stabbed, slashed, flicked,
chopped, swept… to precisely crush the sword lights that came close to him.

30 steps!

20 steps!

10 steps!

Everyone present couldn’t help but sweat at every step closer Chen Xi came to Li Huai as
the shock in their hearts grew even more intense. Their gazes towards Chen Xi gradually
developed a trace of respect and admiration.

Still moving towards the attack even when knowing full well that the sword lights ahead
were coming down like the rain was indeed extremely idiotic and stupid, because there
were too many methods to ward off this move. There was no need to place oneself into
such a dangerous situation. However, when this practically idiotic action came closer and
closer to the target, that fearless and tenacious imposing manner was something that
everyone felt heartfelt admiration towards.

“Li Huai is in danger. Do you want me to help out?” Cang Bin frowned and asked.
“No. It isn’t the last moment yet.” Su Jiao bit her lips as she said in a light voice. Although
she said this, her gaze when looking at Li Huai revealed dense disappointment, coldness,
and indifference.

Chen Xi’s posture when dodging the sword lights was extremely hideous, yet his footsteps
were extremely firm. He who was besieged by sword lights that covered the sky was like an
ascetic monk that walked against a rainstorm to head forward, and his face remained
expressionless with eyes that were indifferent without the slightest ripple.

How can this be possible? He’s only trash from an impoverished family, a talisman
crafting apprentice that only knows how to craft talismans. How could his strength become
so formidable?

Li Huai’s state of mind became even more restless with anxiety as he watched Chen Xi
ceaselessly pressing forward. Although victory hadn’t been decided yet, such a situation
had already completely exceeded Li Huai’s expectations.

A piece of trash is actually locked in combat with me?

How would Miss Su think of me? How would everyone present think of me?

Damnable Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, why does it restrict my cultivation? If it

wasn’t for this, I would have fucking killed this piece of trash a long time ago!!

A vicious feeling instantly surged in his chest and Li Huai was on the verge of going mad
with grievance.

However, right at this moment, a feeling of extreme danger surged into his heart and caused
a chill to run down his spine. Li Huai suddenly jolted awake from that vicious feeling, but
he saw the tip of a sword that had sharp cold lights condensed on it swiftly enlarging within
his pupils, and the piercingly cold winds from the sword seemed to carry along an aura of
death as it assaulted his face!

No!

Li Huai emitted a hysterical and explosive shout within his heart as his figure abruptly
flashed in explosive retreat,

However, he was still a step too slow.

The Azurebolt Sword in Chen Xi’s hand was like a cancerous tumor on the bones, and at
the instant that Li Huai retreated, it moved straight to stab towards the center of his chest.

Bang!
At the instant the tip of the sword hit Li Huai’s chest, it seemed as if to have stabbed on a
plate of steel and emitted a clear ringing of metal.

Inner armor Magic Treasure?

Chen Xi was slightly stunned.

It was at this moment that Li Huai abruptly swung the Pine Ripple Sword in his hand to
fiercely chop down, and the Azurebolt Sword in Chen Xi’s hand was instantly severed in
two.

However, although Chen Xi’s sword strike hadn’t injured Li Huai, the terrifying impulsive
force that had condensed atop the sword directly blasted Li Huai flying over 30m away to
fall onto the ground in a sorry state, and Li Huai was barely able to stabilize himself from
not dropping flat on the ground,

This turn of events practically happened within the blink of an eye.

Although the process was short, the breathtaking turn of events still caused waves to rise
and fall within the hearts of everyone present and they nearly forgot to breathe.

Clang!

The broken sword emitted a clear clang when it fell onto the ground, and only now did
everyone jolt awake as if awakening from a dream and they let out a long breath, but their
expressions were already covered in shock.

If Li Huai didn’t wear an inner armor Magic Treasure, then wouldn’t he have died beneath
Chen Xi sword earlier?

“So formidable!”

“Jin… No, Chen Xi is actually so formidable. His sword technique and movement
technique seem to have surpassed Li Huai. This level of combat strength is simply beyond
belief!”

“Is he transcending a cultivation Realm to do battle? No, this is the Southern Barbaric
Nether Domain. At the very most, Li Huai is at the perfection-stage of the Congenital
Realm at this moment. Even then, Chen Xi being able to defeat him truly too beyond
belief.”

The crowd went into an uproar as everyone present expressed their feelings at the same
time, and their discussions all held Chen Xi in high esteem. Those cultivators that came
from Pine Mist City even silently changed the way they addressed Chen Xi.
“Unfortunately… That sword is only a high-grade mortal weapon. If it was a graded Magic
Treasure, then even if Li Huai didn’t die, he would still suffer a heavy injury.” Duanmu Ze
smacked his lips as he shook his head and sighed.

“Chen Xi has already surpassed our expectations. I originally only took him to be a spirit
chef, but who would have known that he would attain the advanced-stage in both his sword
technique and movement technique with a Congenital Realm cultivation? Even within the
younger generation of Dragon Lake City, this level of comprehension is considered to be
outstanding as well.”

Du Qingxi praised with a sigh, then her beautiful brows frowned as she said, “But if Chen
Xi only possesses this sword, then he will be in an unfavorable situation after this…”

Song Lin didn’t speak, he wore his fluffy and disheveled hair that was like a birds nest as
he stared fixedly at Chen Xi and a trace of anticipation was vaguely revealed within his
bright eyes.

“Your strength has indeed exceeded my expectations. But if this was the outside world, do
you think you’d be able to come close to me?” Li Huai said coldly.

It was indeed so. If it was in the outside world, Li Huai was completely capable of relying
on the abilities of his Violet Palace Realm cultivation to fly up into the sky. Unless Chen Xi
advanced to the Violet Palace Realm as well, otherwise, he wouldn’t be able to touch even
the corners of Li Huai’s clothes.

“Even if it’s here, you’re still not a match for me, because… I possess True Essence that’s
more abundant than you, and Magic Treasures that are more formidable than yours,
whereas you…”

Li Huai glanced at the broken sword in Chen Xi’s hand, and his eyes were filled with
disdain. “This sword was probably your only weapon, right? Now that it’s destroyed, how
will you execute sword techniques?”

The spectators that were discussing animatedly shut their mouths when they heard this and
they fell into silence.

Right, a battle is a battle, it doesn’t merely require the competing of cultivation, but it also
takes into account martial techniques, weapons, courage, strategy, and many other factors.

Even if Chen Xi, who was impoverished since a young age, is able to be on par with Li
Huai in terms of cultivation, but what about weapons? Li Huai is the eldest son of the Li
Clan Patriarch. How could Chen Xi compare with the excellence of weapons and the
completeness of his equipment?

Clang!
Chen Xi casually tossed away the broken sword, then gazed indifferently at Li Huai who
was over 30m away and said slowly, “A pair of fists is enough to kill you!”
Chapter 45 - Answer

Bare-handed?

Li Huai suddenly felt slightly amused. The battle had already come to this, but that trash
before him was actually still so arrogant, seeming to not take him seriously at all!

“Hey, did you hear it clearly? Chen Xi wants to use a pair of fists to defeat Li Huai?”

“Er… It seems that he did indeed say that.”

“The last struggle before defeat? But I keep having the feeling that Chen Xi isn’t the type
of person who likes to boast.”

Everyone present felt speechless when they saw Chen Xi tossing away the broken sword in
his hand and wanting to defeat Li Huai with his pair of fists. Regardless of how hard a fist
was, would it be able to withstand the might of a Magic Treasure?

Unless….

Some people with nimble minds suddenly thought of a possibility, and their eyes rapidly
shot at Chen Xi.

When resisting Li Huai’s sword light attack earlier, Chen Xi’s clothes had already been
torn to pieces and were scattered on the ground and his bare upper body was completely
revealed in the air. With a careful observation, one could notice that piece after piece of
clearly defined muscles were distributed on his thin and tall body, he was like a chiseled
statue with well-defined lines that glowed with a jade-like luster, as if explosive strength
was concealed within.

His thin and handsome face, formidable physique with muscles that were interconnected,
and his cold and determinate expression, these three combined together, it brought about a
strong visual impact.

School of Fiendgod Body Refinement?

Whoosh!

Before everyone could wrap their heads around it, Chen Xi vanished on the spot in the next
moment. Li Huai only felt something flash before his eyes and a fist that brought along a
dazzling light tore through his vision as it suddenly appeared before him.

Huh?
Li Huai’s pupils abruptly dilated. Chen Xi’s fist was like a thunder strike and it tore
through the sky and caused circle upon circles of ripples in the air. This was a formidable
force that could only be formed from strength being condensed to a terrifying degree!

Li Huai didn’t dare delay and he practically instinctively raised his right arm, and at the
critical moment, his Pine Ripple sword stabbed towards the fist that was approaching right
towards him.

Bang!

The sword and fist fiercely collided together, the expected scene of blood and flesh
spattering didn’t occur, as Chen Xi’s fist was like cast iron and emitted a clanging sound of
metal colliding.

Step! Step! Step!

Li Huai successively took three steps back, and his expression fluctuated between a pale
and grim expression.

School of Fiendgod Body Refinement!

Earlier, Li Huai was forced to retreat for over 30m by Chen Xi’s sword strike; now, he was
once again forced to retreat for three steps by Chen Xi’s punch!

When they saw this scene, besides containing shock within the gazes staring at Chen Xi,
their gazes abruptly became complicated. This fellow really concealed his strength so
deeply. His sword technique and movement technique have both attained the advanced-
stage, and not only is his qi refinement cultivation extraordinary, he has even attained such
a level of body refinement, he… Is he still that Jinx that everyone ridiculed? How many
trump cards are actually concealed within his possession?

This fellow is actually able to use his body to defend against my Pine Ripple Sword, The
body refinement cultivation of this fellow is even higher than I expected… But, let me see if
your fists are harder or if my sword sharper! Li Huai secretly gritted his teeth, then his
figure shot out like lightning. The force of his sword was like a great river and it carried
along an outrageously fierce aura as it slashed towards Chen Xi.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Ear piercing and heavy sounds of clashing continuously echoed out, fist and sword collided
with each other and cold lights suffused into the surroundings. The sword lights that
splashed out tore open the ground and tore numerous shocking fissures, but they were
unable to leave even a trace of a scar on Chen Xi’s formidable physique that was like jade.
At this moment, Chen Xi was like a madman, and his two fists were like a surging current
that poured down from a precipice. He practically had a violently fierce bearing that
seemed to be fearless of death as he willfully attacked, attacked, and attacked!

That formidable physique that was comparable to a Magic Treasure, the billowing battle
intent that was raging violently and that fist technique that was like a raging storm caused
everyone present to be dumbstruck as their minds shook violently.

This fellow’s fist technique is so formidable as well? He’s fucking bare-handed! Even body
refiners don’t have bodies that can’t even be injured by Magic Treasures like this fellow!

As he gazed at the punches that whistled towards him like a surging wave with no end, Li
Huai was aggrieved and enraged the more he fought. When faced with Chen Xi’s endless
punches, he was only able to block the blows, and even if he tried to retaliate, his attacks
would be taken head on by Chen Xi and smashed right back where they came from.

“Dammit! Looks like if I don’t resort to my trump card, you’d still think that I’m helpless
against you!”

A short moment later, after he’d once again blocked Chen Xi’s fist, Li Huai was unable to
endure this situation of being in a passive position and taking a beating anymore. His
powerful arms spread out with a whoosh, like a red-crowned crane spreading open its
wings, and his body became light as a feather and moved along with the wind from Chen
Xi’s punch to glide backward.

Finally going to resort to his trump card? The hearts of everyone shook as they looked
towards Li Huai with burning gazes.

“It’s too late!”

However, right at this moment a cold light streaked like lightning within Chen Xi’s
indifferent eyes. Chen Xi’s figure charged forward with a boom, the fluctuations of the
muscles within his entire body surged and echoed out with a string of sounds like rolling
waves, and his body was like a flying dragon as the distance of tens of steps was actually
traversed by him with a single step to directly arrive before Li Huai, utterly not giving Li
Huai a slight chance to react.

Hiss!

Li Huai felt the surrounding air being forcefully squeezed out, then a fist that glowed with a
jade-like luster was like a fired cannonball as it brought along a grand and irresistible
raging roar as it suddenly and slowly enlarged within his pupils!

Cough! Cough!
In the eyes of the spectators, Li Huai’s throat seemed to have been choked by a shapeless
hand, causing his expression to become dark purple from being suffocated. Li Huai’s chest
rose and fell, seeming to be on the verge of exploding open, even breathing actually
became extremely difficult for him and he didn’t even have the chance to open his mouth
and admit defeat.

Kacha!

Chen Xi changed his fist into a claw to choke Li Huai’s throat, then Chen Xi held Li Huai
up mid-air. Li Huai’s fragile neck bones emitted a wave of minute breaking sounds, causing
Li Huai’s already dark purple face to suddenly become warped and vile from pain.

Li Huai is finished!

As they gazed upon Li Huai who was powerless to struggle within Chen Xi’s hand,
everyone present was shocked speechless.

A piece of trash that no one looked favorably on since the beginning, a jinx that most
people in Pine Mist City ridiculed. Yet at this moment, that very same trash and jinx had
brought a string of surprise and shock to everyone. If they didn’t see it with their own two
eyes, no one would believe that this artifice that was similar to a counteroffensive was real.

“He… He actually defeated Li Huai?” Atop the city gate, the smile on Su Jiao’s face had
vanished and her eyes were filled with surprise and bewilderment, but even more of her
feelings were that of disappointment and rage towards Li Huai.

She’d confidently wanted to humiliate Chen Xi before everyone, wanting him to cripple his
own cultivation and wanting him to apologize to her… However, at this moment, as she
gazed at Li Huai who was held in Chen Xi’s hand like a sheep waiting to be slaughtered, it
was like a resounding slap was fiercely swung onto her face, and she’d lost all face!

“Impatient and short tempered with poor combat experience. This Li Huai only has the
name of a genius but his strength is actually extremely weak!” Cang Bin shook his head
with a face full of disdain and he didn’t sympathize with Li Huai’s situation in the slightest.

“Did you see it clearly? That’s the Grand Collapsing Fist at the unity-stage!” Song Lin was
instead not as excited as before when he saw Chen Xi obtaining victory, and he once again
returned to his lazy appearance.

“I think I ought to properly improve my relationship with him. Such a cultivation in the
Martial Dao is rare even in Dragon Lake City.” The gaze Duanmu Ze shot at Chen Xi
already carried along a trace of admiration.

Du Qingxi didn’t say anything, but a trace of an inexplicable smile had appeared on her
glittering cherry lips. Obviously, she was extremely happy as well that Chen Xi was able to
obtain the final victory.
“He won!”

“Senior Chen Xi has won!”

“I knew Senior Chen Xi could do it!”

Lu Shaocong and the others from Redleaf Institution couldn’t help but be excited, and they
cheered in unison.

Chen Xi paid no attention to the surrounding discussions and cheers. His right hand still
tightly held Li Huai’s throat as he carefully took precautions against any accidents. Only
now did he raise his eyes to gaze at the city wall and say indifferently, “I won.”

Exactly! Under the gazes of everyone present, no one was able to deny this fact. Even if Su
Jiao’s identity was any more respected, she still would absolutely not dare go against her
word at this moment.

However, when she heard the indifferent words that came out of Chen Xi’s mouth, Su Jiao
still felt a burst of speechlessness and embarrassment. She only recovered to her normal
state after a short while and coldly said, “Yes, your strength has indeed exceeded my
expectations.  I originally thought that after the annihilation of your clan, a piece of trash
like that only knew how to craft talismans would have no chance of holding your head high
in your lifetime. I never imagined that you would give me such a ‘pleasant surprise’ today!”

The words ‘pleasant surprise’ were spoken in a much heavier tone by her, as if the words
were forced out of the cracks between her teeth, and it revealed dense reluctance and threat.
Obviously, this ‘pleasant surprise’ had caused her to be enraged to the limit.

Chen Xi didn’t say anything further, and his pair of eyes were still as icy cold and
indifferent as before.

Since the moment he’d fought Li Huai, he’d already openly offended the Li Clan and the
Su Clan, and there was no room for compromise or redemption anymore. Moreover, Chen
Hao had already followed Meng Kong to the southern territory, and if everything went as
planned, Chen Hao would have already entered Wandering Cloud Sword Sect by now. At
this moment, he was all alone and had nothing to worry about anymore. Why would he be
afraid of the threatening intent that Su Jiao revealed?

Su Jiao felt a burst of rage in her heart from Chen Xi’s silent attitude and said coldly,
“Quickly speak your three questions. I’m afraid I’ll be unable to endure it and kill you!”

Everyone present shut their mouths and pricked up their ears when they heard this, even Du
Qingxi’s group of three looked at Chen Xi, as they wanted to hear what question Chen Xi
would ask.
“Was the death of my grandfather incited by your Su Clan?” Chen Xi spoke word for word
as if asking this question was incomparably strenuous.

It’s started!

Su Jiao sighed inwardly, she’d guessed long ago that Chen Xi would ask this, but she had
to answer it truthfully, and the reason was the vow of the heart she’d established under the
Dao of the Heavens.

Even if it was a cultivator who’d transcended to become a Heavenly Immortal, if the

cultivator were to dare go against the vow of the heart that was established under the Dao
of the Heavens, they would still encounter the harsh punishment of the Heavens Dao. A
light offense would warrant their cultivation being crippled, and a heavy offense would
warrant death.

Su Jiao naturally didn’t have the courage to challenge the authority of the Heaven’s Dao,
she went silent for a moment before replying with an expressionless face. “Exactly.”

Badum!

The hearts of everyone present trembled. As one of the six great clans of Dragon Lake City,
there was nothing to be said against the Su Clan for destroying the marriage contract with
Chen Xi. But continuously pressing on at Chen Xi and killing his relatives. Isn't that a bit
too atrocious and ruthless?

Even though Chen Xi had guessed the answer since a long time ago, when he heard Su Jiao
admit it herself, it still caused the hatred and rage that was suppressed within his heart for a
long time to ceaselessly seethe.

“Did your Su Clan promise the Li Clan that so long as they trap me, my young brother, and
my grandfather to death within Pine Mist City, and make our family live painfully with
disdain and ridicule to the point we kill ourselves, then your Su Clan would agree upon
your marriage with Li Huai?” Chen Xi took a deep breath and voiced his second question.

This question had always been like a poisonous thorn that pierced his heart. On the day his
grandfather was ambushed, Chen Hao had used a Soundsaver Talisman to record the voices
of the assailants. If it wasn’t for this, it would be impossible for Chen Xi to place all his
suspicion onto the Li Clan and Su Clan.

The crowd instantly burst into an uproar!

Everyone present almost didn’t believe their ears when they heard this question. If the truth
was as Chen Xi said, then wouldn’t the name ‘Jinx’ be something that the Su Clan and Li
Clan joined forces to cook up?
“Exactly!” Su Jiao’s expression became colder and colder. Personally admitting the things
her clan had done under the gazes of everyone caused her to feel incomparably
embarrassed.

It’s actually true!

When those cultivators from Pine Mist City recalled the ridicule and mocking that Chen Xi
had suffered all these years, they felt a burst of coldness in their hearts. Killing someone
was just an order away, but to use such a method to torture someone until death, these
methods were truly too despicable!

Su Jiao’s expression grew even icier and unsightly as she gazed upon the disdain and
surprise on the faces of the surrounding crowd.

Hu~

Chen Xi was on the verge of being unable to restrain the seething hatred within his heart, he
took a deep breath and forcefully restrained this urge to go berserk, then he asked once
again, “Why did you do this?”

“This was the unanimous decision of my Su Clan’s elders. As for the reason, even I don’t
know.”

Su Jiao forcefully endured the embarrassment within her heart as she finished answering
the three questions, then her gaze abruptly descended onto Chen Xi as she said in an icy
voice, “I’ve finished answering the three questions. I presume you’re satisfied, right? But
I’ll still give you a piece of advice, watch out! Don’t die in the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain!”

After she finished speaking, Su Jiao wasn’t willing to stay here for a moment longer, so she
turned around and vanished atop the city wall. Cang Bin followed Su Jiao to leave, and the
two of them seemed to have forgotten Li Huai who was in Chen Xi’s hand.

“Fuck off!” Chen Xi threw Li Huai out as if he was throwing away trash, and Li Huai fell
to the ground around 30m away.

“You… You just wait!” Li Huai was in a sorry state as he crawled up from the floor, then
he glanced at Chen Xi with a resentful gaze before rushing into Bloodbath City.

Duanmu Ze walked over to Chen Xi and he shook his head and sighed. “Slaving around for
someone else, yet came to such an end, truly pitiable and lamentable.”

Du Qingxi raised her head to look at this handsome youth before her that caused her to
have a completely new opinion of him, and said slowly, “Why didn’t you kill him?”

“Killing him now is letting him off too lightly.”

Chen Xi withdrew clothes from his storage ring and wore it as he casually answered, but in
his heart, he added. One day, I’ll annihilate his entire Li Clan before him and take revenge
for grandfather!

“Oh, then let’s go into the city and rest first.” Du Qingxi didn’t inquire any further, only
raising her head to look at the color of the sky before leading the way to enter the city gates
of Bloodbath City.

The sky that was like blood gradually dimmed down as the veil of night was about to
descend, and within Bloody Mountain, the most dangerous time was about to descend.

No one dared stay within Bloody Mountain during the night, and the cultivators outside the
city gate all quickened their steps to crowd into Bloodbath City.

Crank! Crank! Crank!

When the veil of night covered the sky and the earth as it approached from the horizon, the
thick and solid metal gate of Bloodbath City closed with a bang. From this moment
onwards, until daybreak, this city would not open its doors again.

Howl! Howl! Howl!

Far away, numerous sad and shrill howls echoed out within the vast heaven and earth,
seeming to be extremely terrifying under the veil of night.
Chapter 46 - Nether Enlightenment Token

Bloodbath City occupied an area of 5,000 km and row upon row of countless limestone
houses could be found all over the city. Tens of thousands of people could be
accommodated here.

Presently, there were no more than 10,000 cultivators within the entire Bloodbath City;
coupled with these houses all being unowned, everyone was able to choose a house to stay
in.

However, reality wasn’t so simple. Although they were able to avoid the boundless baleful
beast packs outside the city by hiding in Bloodbath City, the fighting between cultivators
was instead unavoidable.

Nothing could be done about it, as the value of baleful pearls were too high and a man’s
wealth was his own ruin. Within this Bloody Mountain that was cut off from the outside
world, anything could happen.

So, for the sake of their own safety, most people choose to gather together nearby the
houses of some experts. On one hand, when a fight broke out, more people would equal
being easier to be noticed, and it would be even better if an acquaintance were to come to
their help; on the other hand, no one dared to guarantee that someone wouldn’t take
advantage of the fight to gain the final reward by lying in wait for the dust to settle.

All along the way after entering Bloodbath City, Chen Xi’s group had seen many such
scenes and they became accustomed to it.

The Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials were different this time, and a cultivator that
was able to be publically acknowledged as an expert was surely a Violet Palace Realm
cultivator without a doubt. Although their cultivations were restricted to the Congenital
Realm, comparatively speaking, this level of cultivation was undoubtedly already in the top
ranks.

As they walked past a house with over 100 cultivators gathered around it, Du Qingxi
explained to Chen Xi in a light voice, “Look, there are four Violet Palace Realm cultivators
here and they ought to be from the southern territory’s Phoenixcloud Sect. They all have
formidable auras, and their strengths are only stronger than Li Huai.”

Chen Xi glanced over, he saw that before the center stone house were four cultivators in
luxurious clothing that had stopped to chat. A stalwart middle aged man, a gaunt old man, a
young man and a young woman. They all wore crimson-purple robes with exquisite
patterns of a fire phoenix dancing in the air while surrounded by clouds.

“They’ve come for the sword immortal’s abode as well?” Chen Xi couldn’t help but be
surprised. Only at this moment did he understand that besides Li Huai and Su Jiao’s group,
there were actually so many Violet Palace Realm cultivators that had come here, and it
fully showed how great of an attractive force the sword immortal’s abode possessed.

“Of course, but the Phoenixcloud Sect is nothing to be feared. Compared to the Dragon
Lake City’s eight great sects, three great institutions, and our six great clans, the
Phoenixcloud Sect is only a small power.”

Duanmu Ze spoke confidently with words that revealed a dense feeling of superiority. The
arrogant nature this young master gained through birth was extremely difficult to change.

The faraway group of Phoenixcloud Sect cultivators instantly stopped their chat and gazed
over at Chen Xi’s group with gloomy expressions. However, they seemed to recognize the
identity of Duanmu Ze and the others, and although they were enraged, they didn’t have
any intention of starting a fight.

“Let’s hurry on.” Du Qingxi glared at Duanmu Ze then turned around to walk towards the
center of the city.

At the center of Bloodbath City stood five stone towers that shot straight into the sky.
Compared to the surrounding low rise houses, they were like giants amongst dwarves,
seeming to be unusually conspicuous.

What caused Chen Xi to be surprised was that all five towers emitted numerous
overbearing auras from within. All these auras weren’t inferior to Du Qingxi, Duanmu Ze,
and Song Lin; some even surpassed them!

At this moment, 3,000 plus cultivators were gathered nearby the stone tower, and all that
could be seen was a dark and dense mass of people. Thus, the formidable aura of the
cultivators that resided within the five towers could be seen from this, and they’d surely
obtained the acknowledgment from everyone present. Otherwise, it would absolutely be
unlikely to form such an explosive scene here.

Chen Xi’s group went around the city before casually finding an enormous stone house that
was near the center of the city. Although its conditions were shabby, it had an extremely
large space and was more than sufficient to accommodate the four of them.

After they sat within the house and rested for a short moment, Du Qingxi instructed.
“Everyone, although we don’t have to worry about being harassed by baleful beast packs
tonight, we still have to be slightly cautious. Especially Chen Xi, you’ve utterly offended
Su Jiao today and it is best if you don’t stray too far from us.”

Chen Xi was in the process of cooking and he nodded when he heard this.

Although he’d defeated Li Huai in the battle today, his physical strength and True Essence
were greatly depleted. If he didn’t recover to his optimum condition, then he wouldn’t dare
make a move arbitrarily. With Du Qingxi’s group of three here, at least he would be
slightly safe.

Duanmu Ze sat over and looked at Chen Xi as he asked, “Right, how did you come to
possess a Nether Enlightenment Token?”

“I obtained it from a Violet Rhino greater demon…” Chen Xi explained in detail about how
he’d encountered Manager Wu, how he’d rescued those pitiable people that were taken to
be ‘tributes,’ up to the point he killed the Violet Rhino greater demon in the end.

If it was before, Chen Xi wouldn’t say so much to Duanmu Ze at all, but all the way here,
Duanmu Ze had repeatedly shown goodwill to him, and the way Duanmu Ze spoke now
didn’t contain that trace of disdain and contempt from someone of a higher position.
Besides feeling surprised from this, he couldn’t help but feel proud. Being able to make an
arrogant and conceited young master of noble birth like Duanmu Ze lower his head and
show goodwill was indeed something that caused Chen Xi to feel happy. Chen Xi
understood the reason behind this, as it was none other than because he’d defeated Li Huai
earlier and directly proved his strength.

When all was said and done, formidable strength was the guarantee to change everything!

“No wonder the Li Clan took the so-called ‘tributes’ to befriend the Violet Rhino greater
demon, it was surely for the sake of this Nether Enlightenment Token.” Duanmu Ze came
to a sudden understanding, then he burst into laughter. “It just so happened that this Nether
Enlightenment Token was unexpectedly obtained by you. The Li Clan can be considered to
have drawn water with a sieve and wasted their time for nothing.”

“Could it be that there’s something marvelous about the Nether Enlightenment Token?”
Chen Xi asked.

This time it was instead Du Qingxi who replied. She glanced at Chen Xi with a slightly
astonished expression, then explained. “I presume you know now that the numerous Violet
Palace Realm cultivators that have entered the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain this time
have a different objective than the objective of hunting baleful pearls like the others, and
their objective is the sword immortal’s abode. The Nether Enlightenment Token is the key
to opening the sword immortal’s abode, and without it, regardless of how formidable your
cultivation is, you wouldn’t be able to take a single step closer to the sword immortal’s
abode.”

“The sword immortal’s abode really exists?” Chen Xi asked in surprise. He’d always taken
the so-called sword immortal’s abode as a rumor that was extremely vague. At this
moment, when he heard that Nether Enlightenment Token in his possession was actually
the key to open the sword immortal’s abode, he couldn’t help but feel excited in his heart.

Sword Immortal!
An existence that was able to be called an ‘immortal’ would have a cultivation that had at
least overcome the heavenly tribulation to attain the level of Earthly Immortal, and if even
higher, it would be to have overcome the nine levels of heavenly tribulation to ascend to
become a Heavenly Immortal!

But regardless of if it was an Earthly Immortal or a Heavenly Immortal, they were both
terrifying existences that Chen Xi could only look up to now. How could the abode left
behind by an immortal not cause Chen Xi’s heart to be moved?

“It surely exists. One month from now, a Tri-Factor Teleportation Formation will appear at
the end of the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, and we can be sent to the sword
immortal’s abode through it.”

Du Qingxi replied in an extremely firm manner, then she turned the direction of the
conversation and said, “But you don’t have to be worried, there are more Nether
Enlightenment Tokens besides the one in your possession. Those Violet Palace Realm
cultivators that have come to the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain all more or less possess
a Nether Enlightenment Token. Moreover, one token is able to allow three cultivators to
enter the sword immortal’s abode at the same time. Coupled with the three of us being here,
so long as you aren’t a perverse person, then no one would dare come seize your Nether
Enlightenment Token.”

Chen Xi secretly heaved a sigh of relief. He was indeed worried about this earlier. But now
that he was seen through by Du Qingxi, he was instead slightly embarrassed and he
diverted the topic of conversation and asked, “The sword immortal’s abode is so valuable,
but why have only Violet Palace Realm cultivators entered here? Aren’t those great
cultivators at the Golden Hall Realm and Golden Core Realm tempted?”

“They are tempted, but helpless. This space the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain resides
in is unable to withstand the strength of a cultivator above the Violet Palace Realm. Even if
they use Essenceseal Pills to lower their cultivation to the Congenital Realm, so long as
they attack, the level of the Martial Dao they utilize would surely destroy the laws that
operate this space. In the end, they would destroy this space.” Du Qingxi replied in an
extremely detailed manner, and her chilly and musical voice was extremely pleasant to the
ear.

So that’s how it is!

An explanation like this confirmed everything Chen Xi had seen, but he still had a question.
“Since a sword immortal’s abode exists within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain, then
why hasn’t it been discovered in the previous years and has only appeared during the
current trials?”

According to Chen Xi’s knowledge, the history of the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain
could even be traced back to over 10,000 years ago, yet during this extremely long time, it
was rather strange that there weren’t any rumors of a sword immortal’s abode.
“Because this sword immortal’s abode only appears once every 10,000 years, and this year
just happens to be the 10,000th year!” Du Qingxi slowly replied.

Appears once every 10,000 years?

Chen Xi couldn’t help but gasp, the time for this sword immortal’s abode to be inherited
was truly too long, and was simply beyond belief!

I wonder who that sword immortal is, and why would he want to leave an abode within the
Southern Barbaric Nether Domain?

After eating the dishes Chen Xi had cooked, Du Qingxi’s group of three started to meditate
and rest, whereas Chen Xi instead sat at the side as he silently thought about everything
he’d seen today.

“Nether Enlightenment Token… Sword immortal’s abode… I never imagined I’d have the
qualification to enter it. But if I want to obtain benefits from there, I’ll surely get into
conflict with those Violet Palace Realm fellows. Looks like during this month’s time, I
have to advance my cultivation properly!” Chen Xi pondered for a long time, then he
dismissed it as he withdrew a few spirit crystals from his storage ring before starting to
meditate in cultivation.

Swoosh!

Surging pure True Essence poured into the meridians around his body, then circulated 18
revolutions before transforming into tiny streams that poured into his Dantian.

Traveling an entire day and fighting a difficult battle with Li Huai caused Chen Xi’s body
and mind to already be exhausted to the limit. At this moment, at the instant he started
cultivating, he felt his entire body became warm and comfortable like he was soaking in a
spring, and his physical strength and mental strength were both recovering at a shocking
pace.

Kacha! Kacha!

Two spirit crystals transformed into powder. Although the True Essence within his Dantian
was already saturated, yet Chen Xi had an unsatisfied feeling. He pondered for a moment,
then once again took out another two spirit crystals.

In the past, Chen Xi only obtained a few tens of spirit stones from crafting talismans every
day, but he had to bring home the bacon and help Chen Hao pay for his tuition fees, so
taking even a single spirit stone to cultivate was something he felt was extravagant. He’d
frequently have to worry about the spirit energy needed to cultivate, thus it was impossible
for his cultivation to advance substantially.
However, it was different now. During the time he trained in the culinary arts at Clear
Stream Restaurant, not only did he earn a large number of spirit stones, he also ate dishes
that were abundant in spirit energy on a daily basis and his cultivation improved along with
this improvement in his situation. He’d also obtained 3,000 spirit crystals from the Violet
Rhino greater demon, and besides the spirit stones used to purchase martial techniques and
the Azurebolt Sword, nearly 400 spirit crystals still remained. Thus, he entirely didn’t need
to worry about the problems that came with cultivating anymore.

Kacha! Kacha!

Spirit crystal after spirit crystal shattered into powder. If Chen Xi was aware, he would
surely feel pained by this, but he didn’t have the time to think about it now as he vaguely
had a feeling that his qi refinement cultivation was about to break through and advance to
the 9th level of the Congenital Realm!
Chapter 47 - Crimsonflame Mountain Range

Hu!

Chen Xi awoke from his meditation and let out a small breath of air. A strand of white
smoke surged out like a flood dragon and stretched longer as his breath continued.

“I’ve broken through. After a night of bitter cultivation, I’ve already attained the 9th level
of the Congenital Realm and I’m only a step away from the Violet Palace Realm!”

Chen Xi stood up and exercised his limbs. As he felt the copious amounts of strength that
circulated throughout his body, he thought inwardly. The previous me was able to dominate
cultivators of the same realm while relying on my cultivation that was at the 8th level of the
Congenital Realm, and I even defeated Li Huai. Now that I’ve already attained the
perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm, I ought to have the strength to protect myself
even if I’m facing those Violet Palace Realm experts.

However, Chen Xi also understood that he was able to slightly challenge a Violet Palace
Realm cultivator due to the strength of Violet Palace Realm cultivators being restrained
within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. If they were to get rid of this restraint, then
the outcome of the battle was impossible to predict when facing a Violet Palace Realm
cultivator’s true strength.

The sky had already turned bright and once again returned to that dark red colored state.
Chen Xi saw Du Qingxi’s group of three were already fully equipped and ready when he
walked out of the stone house.

“Your cultivation has advanced?” Du Qingxi couldn’t help but speak in surprise when she
saw Chen Xi who had a glowing look hidden between his brows.

“Looks like the battle yesterday was a pretty great help to you.” A trace of surprise flashed
within Duanmu Ze’s eyes as well.

“Oh, I think it’s within reason.” Song Lin glanced at Chen Xi with a profound gaze that
contained a meaning that was difficult to figure out.

Chen Xi didn’t know that during the battle with Li Huai yesterday, no matter whether it
was the advanced-stage sword technique and movement technique or the unity-stage Grand
Collapsing Fist he’d executed, they all caused Song Lin to firmly believe that there was
surely an expert guiding Chen Xi.

At the first light of dawn, most of the cultivators that stayed within Bloodbath City had left
to start hunting baleful beasts. Only a few people were like Chen Xi’s group, moving along
in a fixed group to head deeper into Bloody Mountain, or in other words, towards the
direction of the end of the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.
When they left Bloodbath City, Chen Xi finally saw that 30 plus cultivators that emitted
formidable auras were heading out of the city. According to Du Qingxi, these cultivators
were all at the Violet Palace Realm. They not only came from the Dragon Lake City’s eight
great sects, three great institutions, and six great clans, there were still some other Violet
Palace Realm experts that came from other cities in the southern territory. The experts here
could be considered to be as numerous as the clouds.

Su Jiao and Cang Bin were within the group as well and beside the two of them were a few
extremely conspicuous young men and young women with formidable auras and indifferent
gazes.

Grouping up already?

Before Chen Xi could even react from his shock, a sound of hearty laughter echoed out and
a few young men and girls that were in high spirits and wore different clothes walked over
from the far away group of people.

“Brother Duanmu, Brother Song, Miss Du, you’ve all come as well.” The black clothed
young man in the lead smiled happily.

After a brief exchange, Chen Xi found out that this black clothed young man was called
Chai Letian, and was from one of the eight great sects of Dragon Lake City, Starnet Palace.
This person was tall and handsome, with a scar on his left cheek; however, not only was it
not hideous, it instead added a masculine and rough disposition to him.

The three men and one woman beside Chai Letian were instead from the three great
institutions of Dragon Lake City, and their status wasn’t inferior to Chai Letian in the
slightest. They were respectively Yu Haobai of Myriadcloud Institution, Du Quan and Du
Kui of Windsoar Institution, and Murong Wei of Azurewood Institution.

Yu Haobai was a handsome youth that was rather delicate, being both refined and
outstanding.

Du Quan and Du Kui were a pair of twins, both of them tall and stalwart with extremely
stiff and reserved dispositions.

Murong Wei was the only female amongst them. She had a beautiful and gentle disposition,
like a valley orchid that was delicate and attractive, causing one to be unable to help but
want to protect her.

These five people had obviously achieved some sort of understanding and they all followed
the lead of Chai Letian.

Chai Letian seemed to have a good relationship with Du Qingxi, and when faced with Chai
Letian’s small talk, Du Qingxi who had a disposition that was chilly like snow couldn’t
help but reveal a trace of a rare smile.
Chen Xi noticed that the slight smile that hung on the corners of Duanmu Ze’s mouth
vanished when he saw Chai Letian and Du Qingxi happily chatting, and Duanmu Ze’s eyes
vaguely revealed a trace of vigilance.

“Oh, Little Zeze is actually really pitiable. Chasing after Su Jiao, yet there’s a formidable
rival like Cang Bin; chasing after Du Qingxi, yet Chai Letian has appeared again. Truly a
helpless situation.”

A strand of fine voice transmission drilled into his ears. Chen Xi glanced over to see the
indolent and slovenly Song Lin had suddenly appeared to stand by his side. He still had a
drowsy look on his face, as if there was never a moment that he was wide awake.

“What do these people want to do?” Chen Xi sent a voice transmission as well.

“Form an alliance, of course. Actually, if you were to carefully observe, you would be able
to notice that even though Chai Letian’s group of five are from different powers of Dragon
Lake City compared to Su Jiao, but they are from two completely different camps…”

Along with Song Lin’s explanation, Chen Xi finally understood what was going on.

The so-called eight great sects, three great institutions, and six great clans of Dragon Lake
City had extremely complicated relationships amongst each other and were divided into
two camps.

Chai Letian represented the Starnet Palace, Yu Haobai and the others represented the three
great institutions and Du Qingxi, Duanmu Ze, and Song Lin represented the Du Clan, Duan
Clan, and Song Clan that all belonged to the same camp.

The powers that Su Jiao, Cang Bin, and the few young men and women represented all
belonged to the other camp.

This time, both camps had members who’d entered the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain,
and for the sake of protecting their members from the other camp, moving in groups was
undoubtedly the best choice.

“Actually, the relationship between these powers are still complicated. They are all colossi
that have been inherited for nearly 10,000 years, after all. There are contentions and
communications between them, and just thinking about their relationship would cause one’s
scalp to go numb from the complicated nature of their relationships.”

Song Lin yawned and said weakly, “But you only have to remember that Su Jiao and those
people are our enemies.”

Chen Xi was speechless, unknowingly, he’d actually been divided into a camp and he
wondered if this was a good thing or a bad thing.
Chai Letian suddenly turned around and smiled as he gazed at Chen Xi and said, “Could it
be that this Fellow Daoist is the Chen Xi that defeated Li Huai yesterday?”

Du Qingxi nodded. “Exactly.”

“Not bad, not bad.” Chai Letian laughed heartily, yet he turned around and continued
chatting with Du Qingxi. From start to finish, he didn’t give Chen Xi a chance to talk.

Obviously, Chen Xi was only a dispensable existence in Chai Letian’s heart, and it was
enough to just greet Chen Xi and was not worth any further attention.

Chen Xi didn’t think anything of this, but Duanmu Ze was instead displeased and said with
voice transmission, “You’re able to stomach being disregarded by someone?”

“It seems… to not be so serious, right?” Chen Xi said in surprise.

Duanmu Ze said with utter detest when he saw Chen Xi remaining completely indifferent,
“When a man lives in this world, bearing and honor are ranked first. If a man has no honor?
What difference would living be to death? As the old saying goes, men rest on their face
just as trees rest on their bark…”

Chen Xi was able to endure being disregarded, but he was truly unable to endure Duanmu
Ze’s chatter and he interrupted. “You have enmity with Chai Letian?”

“Absolutely irreconcilable!” Duanmu Ze replied with rage.

“Why don’t we join forces and kill him?”

Duanmu Ze’s face froze and he suddenly jolted awake from that inexplicable manic state,
then his expression fluctuated between gloominess and indecision before finally saying in
dejection, “That won’t do. If I did this then Du Qingxi will look down on me forever.”

As he spoke, he patted Chen Xi on the shoulder. “Brother, thank you! When are you
coming to Dragon Lake City? We brothers must surely have a good drink.”

Chen Xi was flabbergasted and he suddenly recalled what Song Lin had said earlier.
Duanmu Ze was indeed helpless when faced with this rival in love, Chai Letian.

“Let’s go!” In the distance, Su Jiao waved her hand, then led the group of people by her
side to flash towards the distance.

Chen Xi suddenly noticed that Li Huai was following behind Su Jiao’s group. That fellow
seemed to have been hiding within the crowd earlier. Now he’d turned around to look in
this direction, and when he saw Chen Xi’s gaze, his expression instantly went extremely
gloomy.
“Let’s go too.” It was Chai Letian who spoke, and looking at Du Qingxi’s expression, it
was obvious that she’d tacitly approved of his status as the leader.

“Hmph! I won’t listen to the orders of anyone besides Qingxi. How about you, Chen Xi?”
Duanmu Ze asked with a voice transmission.

“Me?” Chen Xi was stunned, then replied. “It doesn’t matter.”

Duanmu Ze patted Chen Xi on the shoulder right away, then said, “Alright! We’ll act
together from now on, as for Chai Letian… Bah! Isn’t it just because he has an ancestor at
the Nether Transformation Realm? If it wasn’t for this, he wouldn’t even have a chance to
lead the group.”

Chen Xi rubbed his nose in helplessness towards Duanmu Ze’s sudden actions that seemed
as if they were old friends, but he wasn’t opposed to it either.

Crimsonflame Mountain Range was extremely vast, with numerous perilous peaks that
seemed like sharp swords that stood there holding up the sky and towering into the clouds.
Numerous low and violent beast roars could be vaguely heard sounding out in the distance.

Crimsonflame Mountain Range was situated 5,000 km from Bloodbath City and stood on a
vast and sandy wasteland. It was a place that must be passed in order to head to the end of
the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.

Not only was the number of baleful beasts here enormous, there were even numerous
baleful beast leaders roaming about the depths of Crimsonflame Mountain Range. Within
the innumerable years of the past, the disciples that participated in the Southern Barbaric
Nether Domain trials were all warned by their seniors that they must absolutely not get
close to Crimsonflame Mountain Range, so it became just like a dangerous forbidden area.

If it was an ordinary trial, there would absolutely be no one that would enter here, but today
was obviously not an ordinary time. Numerous figures suddenly appeared at the foot of the
mountain, then they instructed in a loud voice before leaping up successively as they made
their way into the depths of the mountain range.

Their speed could be said to be swift, but they still encountered wave after wave of baleful
beast attacks. These baleful beasts came from all around the Crimsonflame Mountain
Range with a fierce and savage imposing manner, seeming to want to protect their own
territory as they fearlessly charged towards these cultivators.

Numerous shrill cries and howls rose and fell, covering Crimsonflame Mountain Range
with a terrifying atmosphere that caused one’s heart to shake.

That group of people quickly vanished deep within the mountain range.
“This is Crimsonflame Mountain Range?”

Not long after, Chen Xi’s group appeared at the foot of the mountain as well. As they raised
their eyes to gaze at this incomparably enormous mountain range, the expression of
everyone present was extremely serious.

“This is the last barrier to head to the end of the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. Baleful
beasts wreak havoc within and are unavoidable. We can only forcefully charge through.”

Chai Letian frowned and said, “We have to hasten our pace, Su Jiao’s group have already
gone before us. Moreover, only three days remain to the end of the one month period. We
must make it there before that.”

Whoosh!

As soon as he finished, Chai Letian was the first to leap out to head deep into the mountain
range.

When the others saw this, they all hurried to follow him. Du Qingxi was just intending to
go as well when she suddenly noticed Chen Xi staring blankly on the spot and remaining
unmoved, and she couldn’t help but ask, “Chen Xi, what’s wrong?”

Duanmu Ze was extremely shocked as well, he then shook his head and casually patted
Chen Xi’s shoulder. “Brother Chen, it’s time to go.”

Chen Xi’s figure went stiff for a moment, then he spoke vaguely as if he’d just awoken
from a dream. “Oh, okay.”

No one noticed that a trace of a bright light silently slipped past Chen Xi’s gaze as he
looked at the tall and imposing Crimsonflame Mountain Range.

[1. I've changed the previous entries of Darsong Dynasty to Darchu Dynasty. The author
was probably unsure of his naming at the beginning and forgot to change the first few
entries to Darchu. Anyway, it's a mistake I overlooked, and it has been rectified. Enjoy!]
Chapter 48 - Unexpected Event

The Crimsonflame Mountain Range occupied an area of 5,000 km, but who would have
imagined that it was actually a grand formation?

As they swiftly dashed within the Crimsonflame Mountain Range, Chen Xi recalled what Ji
Yu had said earlier and couldn’t help but exclaim in surprise.

Earlier at the foot of the mountain, the reason he was staring blankly was that he was
communicating with Ji Yu. According to Ji Yu’s inference, the Crimsonflame Mountain
Range before his eyes was a terrifying formation that gathered the baleful qi of heaven and
earth, and only a grandmaster of talisman formations would be able to set-up such a
formation!

Chen Xi’s attainments in the Dao of Talismans wasn’t bad, but he was merely able to craft
talismans. Moreover, he was only able to craft first-grade basic talismans. Whereas only
when his talisman crafting attained a standard above the ninth-grade talisman master could
he be called a talisman formation master.

Talisman formation masters were divided into three levels: namely the high-level,
intermediate-level, and low level. Above those was the grand talisman formation master.
Further above that was the talisman formation grandmaster, and one who was able to
become eminent amongst talisman formation grandmasters was able to be called as a
supreme talisman formation grandmaster!

Furthermore, a figure that was able to become a supreme talisman formation grandmaster
had surely attained an unbelievable level in the Dao of Talisman Formations. Within the
cultivation world, only immortal figures around the Earthly Immortal Realm were able to
attain this level in the Dao of Talismans Formations.

Moreover, the Dao of Talisman Formations was practically the most obscure and profound
existence amongst all Daos, and also the Dao that expended the most amount of time.
Unless it was some cultivators with heaven-defying natural talent, otherwise, it was
absolutely difficult for someone to tread to the end of this path.

Thus it could be seen how terrifying of an existence a supreme talisman crafting

grandmaster was!

“This grand formation ought to have fallen into disuse due to having no one to preside over
it for years, otherwise, the baleful qi it gathered would absolutely not have leaked out. Like
the boundless sea of baleful beasts you saw all this way are probably formed after a long
time of accumulation of the baleful qi that’s leaked from the grand formation.”
Ji Yu’s voice unhurriedly sounded out within Chen Xi’s mind once again. “Kid, didn’t you
want to gather Netherezim Baleful Qi? Why don’t you head to the core of this formation
and search there? You might be able to collect some treasures used to set-up formations.”

“The treasure to collect baleful qi?”

“Exactly, it’s utterly impossible to set-up a grand formation like this one without a
formidable treasures as the foundation of the formation. Moreover, it’s precisely because of
the existence of these treasures that there are innumerable baleful beasts wreaking havoc
everywhere within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.”

Chen Xi pondered for a moment. It was exactly as Ji Yu had said, baleful beasts were
formed from baleful qi. If there wasn’t the boundless baleful qi to sustain it, those baleful
beasts would have been annihilated a long time ago. How could they possibly be
inexhaustible as they were now?

Should I go explore the foundation of the formation?

Chen Xi was palpitating with excitement when he heard Ji Yu’s descriptions, but when he
thought of how he was still following Du Qingxi’s group and he still had to head to the
sword immortal’s abode, he couldn’t help but be slightly hesitant.

“Chen Xi? What are you doing!?” A stern shout exploded by his ear.

At this moment, their group was heading forward on a precipitous and windy ledge within
the Crimsonflame Mountain Range, on one side was a chilly precipice and on the other was
a bottomless chasm.

Mountain wind whistled by, seeming to want to blow them away, and below the chasm was
crimson-red fog that ceaseless roiled. Numerous bloody beasts seemed to stay within the
bottomless chasm, and sharp and terrifying beast roars would frequently echo out, causing
chills to run down one’s spine.

Due to their cultivation being restrained, Du Qingxi and the other Violet Palace Realm
cultivators were unable to fly, and thus as they walked between this precipitous cliffs, they
were all extremely cautious, as they were deeply afraid that an accident would occur.

Whereas Chen Xi instead walked at the front of the group. This was Chai Letian’s
arrangement and the purpose was self-evident. If a mishap was to appear ahead, Chen Xi
would be the first to bear the brunt of it. It didn’t matter if Chen Xi died or not, what was
important was that he would be able to buy some time for the people behind him to react.

Chen Xi turned his head back and he saw Chai Letian staring coldly at him with rage
vaguely visible within his gaze, and Chen Xi couldn’t help but be slightly stunned. This
fellow wants to look for trouble with me again?
It wasn’t Chen Xi’s fault that he would guess like this. Since the day they’d departed from
Bloodbath City, an intense competition unfolded between the pair of love rivals, Duanmu
Ze and Chai Letian. As the leader, Chai Letian arrogantly ordered Duanmu Ze about at
every chance, like he’d already taken Duanmu Ze to be a servant. Duanmu Ze was naturally
inwardly extremely hateful of this and went against Chai Letian in all respects. So long as it
was an order of Chai Letian’s, he wouldn’t comply with a word of it, moreover, he would
also drag Chen Xi along to go against Chai Letian, causing him to be extremely infuriated.

It was precisely because of this that Chao Letian was not only infuriated with Duanmu Ze,
but also hated the ‘accomplice,’ Chen Xi. Along the way, he’d constantly reprimanded
Chen Xi for seemingly nothing, as if is he didn’t do so it would be insufficient to prove his
identity as the leader.

Even a weakling had a temper, and no matter how great Chen Xi’s endurance was, he still
couldn’t help himself from feeling a trace of disgust and detest towards this Starnet Palace
disciple.

“Chen Xi, what’s wrong? Is someone finding fault with you?” Duanmu Ze shouted out
from behind. As a good brother that acted together, he naturally had to express his
displeasure when he saw Chai Letian looking for trouble with Chen Xi.

“I’m finding fault with him?” Chai Letian sneered. “We only have a day’s time left. If we
aren’t able to leave the Crimsonflame Mountain Range in time, then we’ll surely miss the
opportunity to enter the sword immortal’s abode and benefit Su Jiao’s group for nothing.
Are you willing to see this outcome?”

“But what does this have to do with Chen Xi?” Duanmu Ze asked rhetorically.

The nearby Du Qingxi frowned as well. During the journey here, she’d noticed the secret
struggle between Duanmu Ze and Chai Letian. But as the person concerned, it wasn’t
proper for her to butt in and stop the fight between two rivals in love. However, at this
moment, when she saw Chai Letian targeting Chen Xi for no reason caused her to be
unable to restrain herself from getting enraged.

“Could it be that everyone hasn’t noticed that since Chen Xi led the group, our speed has
obviously slowed down significantly? This fellow is obviously delaying us intentionally!”

Chai Letian said coldly, “I even suspect now that he might be a spy sent over from Su
Jiao’s side to delay our pace, in order to hold us up and miss the opportunity to enter the
sword immortal’s abode!”

I’m delaying?

I’m a spy?
It’s truly as the saying, if you wish to incriminate someone, you’ll meet no difficulty in
finding pretext!

Chen Xi was stunned, and the detest he had towards Chai Letian’s behavior in his heart had
reached the utmost limit.

“Haha! You said Chen Xi’s a spy from Su Jiao’s side? Do you know what sort of
relationship Chen Xi has with Su Jiao? Truly fucking absurd!” When he heard this
explanation, Duanmu Ze who’d always been extremely caring about his bearing couldn’t
help but swear.

“The one who asked Chen Xi to lead was you, the one who said Chen Xi’s delaying the
group is also you. Brother Chai, have you got something wrong?” Du Qingxi’s voice was
chilly, and her words made no attempt to conceal her displeasure.

“Oh, looking for trouble with Chen Xi again? Truly causing one to be unable to continue
watching by.” Song Lin opened his drowsy eyes, and a strand of cold light appeared within
his pupils.

“You can’t put it like that. Brother Chai is only thinking for the sake of everyone, as our
target is the sword immortal’s abode after all. If others enter it before us, I’m afraid it
wouldn’t be good for anyone, right?”

“Hmph! I and my brother support Brother Chai. According to my observation, that kid is
obviously delaying!”

“Yes, my brother is right.”

“Everyone, stop quarreling. Actually, Brother Chai is doing this for all our sakes.”

The Myriadcloud Institution’s Yu Haobai, the Windsoar Institution’s Du Quan and Du Kui,
and the Azurewood Institution’s Murong Wei all spoke out, but leaned towards Chai
Letian’s side and supported him.

Chai Letian never expected that only reprimanding Chen Xi would actually cause such a
situation to appear, and he couldn’t help but think inwardly. Isn’t this kid, Chen Xi, an
abject disciple from an impoverished family? Why would Du Qingxi’s group of three be so
protective of him?

What should I do?

If I compromise, then wouldn’t it mean that I’m admitting that I was looking for trouble
with Chen Xi?

That won’t do!

I absolutely can’t compromise. All along the way here, this kid has gone against me with
Duanmu Ze in all respects. I should use this opportunity. It would be better to eradicate
this kid, and in no event will I let him off!

As he thought up to here, Chai Letian rubbed the scar on his left cheek as killing intent
flashed within his eyes, then his right hand stretched out like lightning to suddenly grab
onto the back of Chen Xi’s clothes, then he swung his arm, directly tossing Chen Xi into
the nearby chasm!

Chen Xi completely never expected that Chai Letian would actually do this, and when he
reacted to Chai Letian’s actions, his entire body had already been tossed out tens of meters
away to be atop the chasm. His body was in mid-air and he had no place to push himself
against, and could only watch on as he drifted down like a rag, falling down towards the
chasm.

Chen Xi didn’t exclaim in shock, nor did he shout. He only tightly closed his lips and stared
fixedly at the figure that became further and further away. His rage was like burning and
boiling lava that flowed throughout his body, causing his eyes to instantly go red from
being filled with blood, and numerous blue veins popped out on his handsome face,
revealing billowing hatred within his savage appearance!

Chai! Le! Tian! So long as I don’t die, I’ll surely extract your soul and torture it with
flames, then I’ll burn your bones and scatter your ashes! I’ll cause you to be unable to
achieve rebirth forever!

At the side of the precipice beside the chasm, the mountain winds were like howling
dragons.

It was deathly silent and only the howls of the bitter mountain wind resounded in the air.

No one had expected that Chai Letian would take Chen Xi by surprise and attack him, and
they furthermore never expected that Chai Letian would not even say anything before
directly tossing Chen Xi into the chasm!

This unexpected event arrived too swiftly and practically occurred in an instant. At the
moment everyone hadn’t even reacted to it, Chen Xi had already fallen into the chasm that
was filled with roiling crimson-red fog and disappeared.

“Dirty dog! Fuck your mother! I’ll fucking kill you!” Duanmu Ze was the first to recover
from his shock, and he roared furiously as he leaped out wanting to fight Chai Letian to the
death.

The nearby Song Lin hurriedly stopped him, then shouted explosively. “Calm down! The
chasm is just to our side, could it be that you want to fall in as well?”
“Why did you do that!?” Du Qingxi’s expression was like ice, and flames of rage burned
brilliantly within her clear eyes.

“It’s only an ant, his death makes no difference. Why make such a big deal of it?” Chai
Letian smiled as he patted his hands as if he’d done something of little importance.

“You… So ruthless!” Chai Letian’s attitude of not caring in the least caused Du Qingxi to
be angered to the point her body lightly trembled. “If I had known earlier, I wouldn’t have
agreed to form an alliance with you.”

Chai Letian frowned and said, “Qingxi, I’ve already tolerated him all the way here. You
want to have a falling out with me for the sake of an annoying little ant?” His voice was
low and vaguely carried a trace intimidation.

Du Qingxi’s expression froze and a wisp of powerlessness and dejection poured out from
her eyes. She could have a falling out with Chai Letian, but the Du Clan behind her would
absolutely not allow it, causing her to be unable to do so.

“Let me go! I’ll fucking kill this dirty dog!” Duanmu Ze was still shouting in rage.

Song Lin tightly held onto him and shouted explosively via voice transmission. “Wake up!
Do you want to bring a disaster to your Duanmu Clan? That Chai Letian is nothing to
worry about, but the Nether Transformation Realm ancestor behind him is someone that our
clans are absolutely unable to go against!”

“Could it be that we’re going to just let it go at that?” Duanmu Ze muttered in dejection.

A wisp of inexplicable bitterness surged at the corners of Song Lin’s mouth. “What else can
we do? We can only hope that Chen Xi can survive. Don’t forget that he’s also a
formidable body refiner. Even if he has nowhere to push himself against and save himself,
but falling down the chasm might not be lethal…” His voice grew weaker and weaker,
lower and lower. Obviously, he himself wasn’t confident of what he said.
Chapter 49 - Cavern

Bang!

A black silhouette was like an enormous falling meteor as it fiercely smashed onto the jet-
black rocks that were covered in dust and emitted a stifling bang.

After an unknown amount of time, Chen Xi was stimulated awake by severe pain. The
incomparable pain that was like his heart was pierced by ten thousand swords and bitten by
a myriad of ants, caused him to slightly recover a trace of consciousness and open his eyes.
What greeted his eyes was dense miasma and fog that was impossible to dissipate, and he
was unable to clearly see his surroundings.

The only thing Chen Xi could confirm was that he didn’t die and this place was obviously
the bottom of the chasm in the Crimsonflame Mountain Range.

“You’re awake?” Accompanied by this voice, the surrounding bewitching blood red fog
suddenly scattered away to reveal Ji Yu’s thin face.

Chen Xi stretched his body for a moment, and besides the fiery pain in his body, he didn’t
feel any other discomfort. He then gritted his teeth as he crawled up to a stand, and he was
already sweating profusely from pain when he achieved this.

“Experiencing this incident is a good thing for you.” Ji Yu’s expression seemed extremely
solemn, and he said in a low voice, “You must always remember that unless it’s a
friendship sword for life and death, otherwise, leaving your back to another is disrespect to
your own life!”

Chen Xi silently nodded. If he was slightly vigilant at that time, it would be unlikely that
Chai Letian would have been successful in his surprise attack.

“Let’s go.” Ji Yu seemed to understand as well that this incident was a huge blow to Chen
Xi, so when he saw Chen Xi acknowledging his view, he didn’t speak any further. His
figure swayed and the tip of his foot didn’t touch the ground as he floated towards the
depths of the fog like a little boat.

Chen Xi glanced around at the surroundings, then asked in a daze. “Go where?”

“50 km forward from here is the location of the foundation of this formation. If you want to
walk out of here then destroy its foundation.” Ji Yu’s voice floated out from within the fog.

Baleful qi and fog billowed in the air and howls of baleful beasts resounded.
Chen Xi followed behind Ji Yu. As he gazed upon the crimson-red fog that was dense like
lava and the packs of baleful beasts that rampaged within the fog, his nerves were strained
to the limit.

He’d even once seen a baleful beast that was the size of an entire hill slowly walking out of
the fog, and the ferocious and terrifying aura that it emitted caused him to feel suffocated.

However, surprisingly, so long as he followed behind Ji Yu, not only would the dense fog
automatically scatter, but even those baleful beasts wouldn’t dare approach. All along the
way, they actually never encountered a single attack!

After the time for an incense stick to burn.

Ji Yu stopped before a jet-black rock wall within the chasm.

Chen Xi raised his eyes to look and he saw that various dense patterns that were like
decorative patterns were inscribed on the jet-black rock wall. The patterns were rough as if
formed naturally, some places were already blurred and indistinct, and they carried an aged
and desolate ancient aura.

“Looks like my inference is correct. Sure enough, this mountain range is a Baleful
Condensation Formation.”

Ji Yu sized up the patterns on the rock wall for a moment before walking forward, then he
swished his sleeve and a wisp of dense azure fog swept out and struck against the rock wall.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

The jet-black rock wall with innumerable patterns inscribed on it opened up from the center
to reveal a pitch-black cavern. At the same time, an extremely icy cold aura whistled out.
Everywhere it passed, a layer of thick black ice was instantly condensed on the ground!

So cold!

Chen Xi couldn’t help but shudder when this icy cold aura blew upon him and his teeth
chattered. He hurriedly circulated his True Essence, and only then was he able to dissolve
the icy cold aura that invaded his body.

After following behind Ji Yu to enter the cavern, Chen Xi saw clearly the environment
within.

This place seemed to be an extremely ancient cavern with dark-azure rock walls that were
craggy and mottled surrounding the cavern. The natural marbling seemed crude and dull,
without a trace of artificial polishing.
Furthermore, at the center of the cavern was a pool in the shape of an octagonal prism.
Eight swords with oppressively cold gleams were inserted within the eight corners of the
pool. Circles of ripples appeared atop the pure black colored milky liquid that was slowly
flowing within the pool, and a bone piercing icy coldness diffused out from it.

The most eye-catching of it all was a fully bloomed black lotus in the center of the pool.
The lotus had 36 petals that were like black jade and glowed with a trace of a calming
energy.

Ji Yu walked around the side of the pool then shook his head and sighed. “There are baleful
qi drawing swords, a baleful qi condensing lotus, and and eight containment bottle to hold
the baleful qi. The person who set-up this formation prepared fully, but unfortunately, the
quality of these are all too inferior. Moreover, it lacks a Spirit Drawing Pearl. Without
someone to control the formation, it could only lay waste until now.”

Chen Xi was completely muddled and said inwardly, They are treasures used by a supreme
talisman formation grandmaster to set-up the formation, but why have they become
treasures of inferior quality to Senior Ji Yu?

“However, these things are still usable to you.” Ji Yu pondered for a moment then flicked
his sleeve. The eight swords at the side of the pool cried out in unison, then lifted off the
ground and transformed into eight dazzlingly bright flowing lights as they descended onto
Ji Yu’s palm.

“These eight swords were originally heaven-rank Magic Treasures, but unfortunately
they’ve been sealed here for too long and have experienced the corrosion of Netherezim
Baleful Qi for countless years. Now, they are at most have the might of a top-grade yellow-
rank Magic Treasures.”

Ji Yu evaluated before tossing the eight swords to Chen Xi, then he once again flicked his
sleeve and the black lotus at the center of the pool was pulled out by the roots and
descended onto his palm.

“This lotus isn’t bad. It’s an Icesoul Heartlotus that’s born from the heaven and the earth.
Placing it by your side while cultivating will provide the marvelous effect of wiping out
your inner demons and cleansing your mind.”

As he spoke, Ji Yu extended his hand to lightly stroke the black lotus and strands of baleful
qi dissipated out from the lotus, instantly transforming it into a snow white lotus that
emitted a cool and refreshing aura. “I’ve already helped you get rid of the baleful qi
contained within this lotus, take it!”

Chen Xi glanced at the row of tiny flying swords in his right palm, then glanced at the
Icesoul Heartlotus he’d just obtained, and his heart was filled with excitement.
In the cultivation world, weapons were divided into two main categories according to their
quality, namely mortal weapons and Magic Treasures.

Postnatal Realm cultivators and Congenital Realm cultivators were only able to utilize
mortal weapons, and the Azurebolt Sword that Chen Xi used before was a high-grade
mortal weapon.

Only after developing his Violet Palace and establishing his Dao Foundation would he be
able to control a Magic Treasure.

Magic Treasures were divided into four ranks, namely the yellow-rank, profound-rank,
earth-rank and heaven-rank. Every rank was further divided into four grades, namely the
low-grade, intermediate-grade, high-grade and top-grade.

Furthermore, above Magic Treasures were Immortal Artifacts!

However, to Chen Xi, an Immortal Artifact was too far away after all, as it was practically
an existence that could only be chanced upon by luck and not sought after. At this moment,
possessing eight top-grade yellow-rank flying swords had already caused him to be
uncontrollably happy.

Moreover, the Icesoul Heartlotus was marvelous and extraordinary. With it in his
possession, not only would he be able to repel his inner demons to prevent qi deviation, it
was even able to provide great benefits to his cultivation speed.

“These eight swords experienced the corrosion of Netherezim Baleful Qi for 10,000 years,
but have fallen into my hands in the end. It’s a type of fate as well, why don’t I call them
Netherezim Swords?”

Chen Xi had already rushed to start naming his Magic Treasures, then he frowned as he
said inwardly, I’m only at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm now, I’m afraid I’m
temporarily unable to control these Netherezim Swords.

“Chen Xi, the baleful qi within this pool is dense to the point it has turned liquid. It’s
extremely suitable for you to temper your physique.” Ji Yu’s voice sounded out from
beside the pool.

Chen Xi hurriedly tossed the Netherezim Swords and Icesoul Heartlotus into his storage
ring, then walked over and asked, “What should I do?”

Ji Yu pointed at the pool. “Jump in and circulate the Universe Starslayer Body Forging
Arts. But you must be careful, even though this baleful qi can’t compare to the baleful qi
from the stars, it’s still the renowned Netherezim Baleful Qi that’s incomparably cold. If
you feel you’re unable to persist, then quickly come out.”
Chen Xi didn’t hesitate as he removed his clothes right away, then walked towards the
pool.

The instant his skin came into contact with the layer of pure black colored liquid within the
pool, a bone piercing icy coldness was like an awl as it fiercely pierced into his skin before
flowing throughout his body. Chen Xi’s face instantly became a bluish violet color and his
body shivered violently and uncontrollably.

Hu!

Chen Xi didn’t dare delay and sat in the pool with a splash. The instant he did this, he
concentrated his mind and abandoned all distracting thoughts before swiftly circulating the
Universe Starslayer Body Forging Arts.

The liquid form Netherezim Baleful qi within the pool was just enough to cover Chen Xi’s
neck to only reveal his head. He tightly shut his eyes as a layer of thick black ice was
instantly condensed over his face. From far away, Chen Xi was like a wax sealed stone
carving.

“This kid is so obedient, he actually didn’t ask me why I wanted him to do that…”

Ji Yu took out his wine gourd and took a few gulps, then shook his head and sighed.
“Looks like I’ve taken too good care of him. Too much dependence will cause him to
forever be unable to become a true expert.”

“However, once he advances to the Violet Palace Realm and passes the first level of the
Heavenpeak of Trials, I’ll probably be unable to come out any longer. Mmm, I’ll just
continue taking care of him. All those years ago, Master took good care like this as well…”

His voice grew lower and lower before gradually fading away. Ji Yu seemed to have
recalled some past event that he couldn’t bear to look back onto, and a wisp of sorrow that
was dense to the point it couldn’t be dispelled appeared within his eyes that had
experienced many vicissitudes of life.

Cold!

Bone piercing icy coldness!

Chen Xi felt an icy river flowing between the flesh, blood, and bones of his entire body,
and that icy coldness that suffused out from within his body caused him to gradually lose
all consciousness.

However, his soul still maintained extreme lucidity and calmness as he systematically
circulated his mental cultivation method to slowly absorb drop after drop of the terrifying
Netherezim Baleful Qi, using this to temper the skin, bones, flesh and muscles.
Compared to the pain that the baleful qi of the stars brought to him, the icy cold feeling
caused by this Netherezim Baleful Qi was instead much less of a burden to Chen Xi.

Currently, Chen Xi’s cultivation in body refinement had already broken through to the
Congenital Realm a long time ago. At this moment, continuing to cultivate intently with the
help of the Netherezim Baleful Qi caused his cultivation to advance at a noticeable speed.

Three days later.

A wave of cracking sounds from something shattering into tiny pieces suddenly sounded
out within the quiet cavern.

Chen Xi stood up within the pool as the thick layer of black ice that had condensed atop his
skin shattered piece by piece and trickled down like powder. Revealing a formidable
physique with perfect and masculine lines, like a masterpiece that was chiseled out by the
hand of a god and was full of an enchanting luster.

Swoosh!

Chen Xi stretched his muscles and felt the vital energy within his entire body was boiling,
seeming as if he could lift a mountain with a raise of his hand.

Moreover, numerous faint black patterns were vaguely visible on his backbone and seemed
to be extremely mysterious.

Ji Yu lay on the rattan chair as his gaze swept Chen Xi’s back and he said indifferently,
“Veins of shaman markings have appeared on his back. Looks like his body refinement
cultivation has advanced to the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm.”

Perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm in body refinement!

Chen Xi was stunned speechless. I’ve attained the perfection-stage of the Congenital
Realm in body refinement within three days?
Chapter 50 - Note Within the Immortal’s Abode

Chen Xi had never considered himself to be a cultivation genius, but this body refinement
cultivation speed still startled him. If he were to carefully count it, he’d only refined his
body for not even half a year and he’d already advanced to the perfection-stage of the
Congenital Realm from the Postnatal Realm in one go. This speed was something even he
was nearly unable to believe.

“Are you extremely shocked? You’re cultivating the Universe Starslayer Body Forging
Arts my Master passed down, and further possessed an enormous amount of Netherezim
Baleful Qi to support your cultivating. A speed like this can only be considered as normal.”

Ji Yu said indifferently, “Work hard. Compared to those true geniuses, this cultivation
speed of your is extremely terrible. Most importantly, you’ve already wasted 16 years of
time.”

Chen Xi’s excited mood calmed down significantly as the facts were exactly like Ji Yu had
said. Since he was young, although he’d always received the teachings of his grandfather
and cultivated the Violet Sky Arts qi refinement cultivation technique passed down in his
clan, he lacked the support of spirit pills and spirit stones, causing the advancement of his
cultivation to be extremely slow. Moreover, four years ago, due to needing to bring home
the bacon, he even took on the heavy responsibility of becoming the breadwinner of the
family and became a talisman crafting apprentice, causing the time he spent on cultivating
to become even less. Compared to the disciples of clans that concentrated on cultivating
since a young age, he was extremely far behind.

Just like Li Huai who was of similar age to Chen Xi, but had now already attained a Violet
Palace Realm cultivation. The reason lay at Li Huai possessing countless resources of every
type. He utterly didn’t have to labor for the sake of survival.

“Thank you Senior, for your timely warning.” Chen Xi’s expression was solemn, and
staunchness and seriousness filled the space between his brows.

Ji Yu laughed as he stood up from the rattan chair, then swept the pool with his gaze and
said, “There’s still nearly 250 kg of liquid condensed from Netherezim Baleful Qi. I’ll help
you collect it.”

He stuck out his palm as he spoke, and the entire octagonal prism shaped pool fiercely
roiled, then a black light flashed, and the pool had already transformed into an octagonal
containment bottle that seemed to be made of black jade.

“Actually, this pool is an octagonal containment bottle. The cultivator who set up this
formation first used the baleful qi drawing swords to connect with the baleful qi of heaven
and earth, then used the Icesoul Heartlotus to cultivate the baleful qi, and in the end, they
were gathered within the octagonal containment bottle. This pool of Netherezim Baleful Qi
was only formed after 10,000 years of time.”

Ji Yu spoke in a calm and unhurried manner, seeming to be extremely patient as he

continued. “But due to this Baleful Condensation Formation having no one to control it for
nearly 10,000 years, most of the Netherezim Baleful Qi within has dissipated. If it wasn’t
for this, this pool would at least be able to gather no less than 5,000 kg of Netherezim
Baleful Qi.”

“So that’s how it is.” Chen Xi nodded.

Ji Yu tossed to octagonal containment bottle to Chen Xi and said, “Even though this thing
has no other use, it isn’t bad to store some spirit liquids or wine. Once you advance to the
Rebirth Realm, you can use the Netherezim Baleful Qi within to condense a Rebirth
Wheel.”

Chen Xi carefully put away the octagonal containment bottle within his storage ring and his
gaze inadvertently glanced around. He noticed that there was shockingly a bizarre
formation pattern at the location where the pool was once.

“This is?” Chen Xi walked forward to take a look. There was a depressed slot at the center
of the formation patterns. A flash of inspiration flashed through his mind, and he withdrew
the Nether Enlightenment Token from his storage ring right away. With a slight
comparison, he noticed they just happened to perfectly embed seamlessly within the
depression!

“Hahaha!”

Ji Yu lifted his head and laughed. “Exactly. It’s precisely the teleportation formation that
heads to the sword immortal’s abode. I noticed something was fishy when I entered here
earlier. According to my deduction, this formation was surely set-up by that sword
immortal for the sake of gathering the Netherezim Baleful Qi!”

Chen Xi did indeed slightly dare not believe this. He’d originally thought that once he’d
fallen down the chasm, he’d completely lost all fate with the sword immortal’s abode. He
never imagined that he’d actually find an unexpected way here. It’s truly as the saying
goes, every cloud has a silver lining.

“Let’s go. I’ve already seen many peerless sword immortals during these millions of years,
but all of them died with deep regret within my Master’s Manor. Let me see who exactly
this sword immortal is, and what marvels the abode he left behind contains.” Ji Yu spoke
unhurriedly, his casual tone revealed arrogance that looked down on everything.

…
Waves of explosive shouts frequently echoed out from within the long and narrow
passageway that was pitch-black, and along with the shouts was the terrifying sound of
metal clashing.

Whoosh!

The Unity Azurelotus Dagger transformed into a dim azure rainbow as it fiercely slashed a
baleful qi puppet into pieces. Du Qingxi was in a slightly sorry state and was breathing
heavily as she gazed upon Duanmu Ze and the others who still gritted their teeth in battle,
her beautiful face filled with anxiousness.

Is this still a sword immortal’s abode? It’s virtually a sea of baleful qi puppets!

Under the leadership of Chai Letian, they’d finally passed through the Crimsonflame
Mountain Range while encountering terrifying situations, but coming out unscathed. At the
last day of the one month time period, they’d relied on the Nether Enlightenment Token to
be sent to the sword immortal’s abode via the teleportation formation.

They’d initially thought that various Magic Treasures and secret techniques were within
reach, but they never imagined that at the instant they entered the long and narrow
passageway, they’d encounter wave after wave of baleful qi puppets.

These baleful qi puppets were incomparably tall and big with hideous and stiff faces. Black
colored baleful qi coiled around their entire bodies and each of their hands held a sharp,
enormous sword. Their sword technique was simple and crude, but they relied on their
fearless imposing aura, coupled with their enormous physiques that were hard like rocks.
They were virtually like a mighty torrent of iron and steel that pushed right through the
long and narrow passageway, sweeping away everything in their path.

“Dammit! These stupid things simply are simply unending no matter how many we kill.
We’ve already been trapped here for two days. If this were to go on, sooner or later we’ll
die from exhaustion.”

Duanmu Ze kicked a baleful qi puppet flying then leaped up to dodge the pincer attack of
two baleful qi puppets to arrive by Du Qingxi’s side in a sorry state.

At this moment, Duanmu Ze’s white clothes were tainted with blood and his hair was
disheveled. His handsome face was covered in a layer of sickly white and his brows
revealed extreme exhaustion.

“Why did it turn out like this? Since we entered this place, our strengths have recovered to
the Violet Palace Realm and aren’t restricted by the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain any
longer. But we’re utterly unable to finish off all these baleful qi puppets. Why don’t…we
charge through?”
Du Qingxi was at a loss for what to do as well, although she suggested charging through,
when she saw the dense mass of baleful qi puppets that were surging over from far away,
she herself felt that their hope of charging through was extremely slim.

“Charge? I think we don’t have much hope.” Duanmu Ze smiled bitterly, then gnashed his
teeth and said, “We originally had eight passageways to choose from, but Chai Letian just
had to lead us on this passageway. If it wasn’t for this, would we have come to such a sorry
state?”

Du Qingxi frowned and said, “Is what you’re saying any different from how Chai Letian
treated Chen Xi that day? Don’t push everything onto someone else.”

She stopped for a moment and felt she’d spoken too harshly, then she said helplessly,
“Fortune, Misfortune, Compliment, Slander, Praise, Ridicule, Pain, and Joy, eight different
passageways. We chose the passageway of Joy and have already been trapped to such an
extent. If we were to have chosen the passageway of Pain, wouldn’t it mean that we would
have died long ago?”

Duanmu Ze sneered. “I just feel that Chai Letian was extremely ridiculous. He thought that
since his name had the word ‘Joy’[1. The Le in Chai Letian means joy.] in it, so he led us
on this path. Isn’t this rubbish?”

Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

Three enormous swords contained a violent aura as they fiercely cleaved towards Du
Qingxi and Duanmu Ze. The two of them didn’t dare continue chatting and gritted their
teeth as they moved over to meet the baleful qi puppet in battle.

At this moment, they could only bitterly hang on like this.

“These goddamn pieces of scrap, I’ve fucking had enough!” Not long after, Chai Letian
roared in explosive rage, then he abruptly leaped up as a wisp of a dazzling and resplendent
light suddenly appeared within his palm before being fiercely swung out by him.

“Heavenblaze Yin-Yang Talisman! Fucking explode! Explode! Explode!”

Bang! Bang! Bang!

An eye piercing white light suddenly lit up the surroundings and waves of explosions that
were like thunderclaps resounded out within the narrow and long passageway. The violent
streams of air were like a gale as they pressed forward through the passageway, and
everywhere it passed, the numerous baleful qi puppets were like ice melting into water
before being blazed to nothingness!

Duanmu Ze stared blankly at the empty passageway and gnashed his teeth after a short
moment. “Damn asshole! He possessed a Heavenblaze Yin-Yang Talisman, a treasure
that’s fully capable of being on par with a full strength attack of a Golden Hall Realm
cultivator, but he only used it now! He truly has vicious intentions!”

“Let’s hurry up and leave. Once we’re late then Su Jiao’s group might beat us to the
punch!” Du Qingxi heaved a long sigh of relief and wiped off the sweat on her forehead
before leaping forward.

“Oh!” Duanmu Ze didn’t dare dally when he thought of the treasures within the sword
immortal’s abode and rushed over.

“I never expected that this ‘Praise’ passageway would actually be filled with various booby
traps, it’s easy to dodge a spear in the open, but difficult to dodge an arrow shot from the
shadows. If it wasn’t for the surrounding defense of Brother Cang’s Foursoul Blackturtle
Shield at this moment, I’m afraid all of us would be trapped here this time.”

Within another passageway, Su Jiao gazed at the far away exit and secretly heaved a sigh of
relief, then she smiled sweetly to Cang Bin who was beside her.

“Haha! Miss Su, you’re too kind.” Cang Bin felt pained due to more than half of the spirit
properties of the Foursoul Blackturtle Shield being destroyed. When he heard this, he
couldn’t help but squeeze out a smile.

Su Jiao seemed to have seen through Cang Bin’s thoughts and smiled as she suggested. “If
we’re able to obtain the secret stash within the sword immortal’s abode this time, then we
must first let Brother Cang pick an item in repayment for Brother Cang saving our lives.
Everyone doesn’t have any objections, right?”

“Naturally.”

“This is indeed what Fellow Daoist Cang ought to get.” The other people nodded and
voiced their agreement at once.

Cang Bin’s mood was instantly elated and a trace of admiration was revealed within the
burning gaze he shot at Su Jiao.

“We have no time to lose, let’s quickly head out. We mustn’t let the others beat us to the
punch.” Su Jiao lightly smiled then turned around and moved towards the passage exit.

Whoosh!

When Chen Xi opened his eyes, he was already within an empty and spacious room.
Besides a jade bed, a work table, and a meditation cushion, there was nothing else within
the room.

Could this be the sword immortal’s abode? Isn't it a little too simple and crude, as if
there’s nothing at all?

Chen Xi was extremely bewildered.

Ji Yu stood before the work table and seemed to have nothing something, and he exclaimed
in surprise. “Eh?”

Chen Xi hurriedly moved closer and he saw that there actually was a yellowish note on the
work table filled with words.

These words were written freely in both vertical and horizontal lines, and every stroke was
like a peerlessly swift and fierce sword. The instant Chen Xi gazed upon it, Sword Insight
that was like a wave carried along a dense aura of slaughter as it assaulted his face, causing
his entire body to instantly go stiff and cold sweat to stream down from his forehead. Chen
Xi hurriedly turned away and closed his eyes before taking a deep breath, only then did he
open his eyes to continue looking at it.

“I debated about the sword with Huai Yazi and attained sudden insight into the truth behind
the eight things that can move a person’s heart[1. The eight things refers to Fortune,
Misfortune, Compliment, Slander, Praise, Ridicule, Pain, and Joy; which just happen to be
the names of the eight passageways from before.]. I severed my fate with the mortal world
and broke through the cage that bound me. I felt that I’d obtained the true essence of the
Sword Dao, however, I was obsessed with the sword, and my obsession eventually turned
into an inner demon. Just like the saying, my success came from the sword, and so did my
downfall…”

Chen Xi had only read a few rows of words when he felt a feeling of detest and agitation
surge within his chest, and his Dao Heart shook and faltered. He couldn’t endure it and
once again closed his eyes.

“This note was written by a sword immortal who’d comprehended a Grand Dao of the
sword. Your cultivation isn’t high enough. Forcefully reading it will cause your soul to be
injured or even cause your Dao Heart to be vulnerable to inner demons. You shouldn’t read
it again.”

Ji Yu’s voice sounded out by his ear, and it raised a violent storm in Chen Xi’s heart. Just a
note he left behind is able to cause the reader’s Dao Heart to be vulnerable to inner
demons?
Chapter 51 - Treasure Hall

“This fellow whose Dao name is Nether Enlightenment is indeed an extremely formidable
sword immortal, since he was able to attain a Grand Dao of the sword.” Ji Yu picked up the
note and viewed it for a short moment, then he shook his head and sighed. “Unfortunately,
he only overcame eight of the nine levels of heavenly tribulation. He was only a step away
from ascending into the ranks of Heavenly Immortals. If you carefully consider it, this
fellow, Nether Enlightenment, can only be considered to be a formidable fallen sword
immortal.”

Fallen immortal?

Chen Xi extremely shocked inwardly. Even a fallen immortal was a terrifying existence
that was currently difficult for him to reach.

Poof!

The yellowish note that was written with blood-red cinnabar suddenly lit ablaze within Ji
Yu’s hand and transformed into ash that scattered into the air.

“Why did you destroy it?” Chen Xi asked in astonishment. Every word on this note was
filled with dense and mighty Sword Insight; observing and understanding it would be
extremely beneficial to cultivating sword techniques.

Ji Yu had his hands behind his back as he said indifferently, “A Sword Dao that can’t even
withstand the heavenly tribulation is not worth learning.”

Chen Xi still felt it was a pity and said in a daze, “But, I can learn from his strong points to
overcome my own weak points.”

“You have to remember that the most important thing on the path of sword cultivation is to
possess a pure heart towards the sword that’s firm and tenacious. This note was left behind
by him when he was obsessed to the point it became an inner demon. His aura is irritable
and in disorder, and the Sword Dao atop the note is extremely disorderly. Using it to learn
and train would only destroy the path of your Sword Dao.”

Ji Yu said emotionally, “One day, if you’re able to pass the 13th level of the Heavenpeak of
Trials, and see the unparalleled Sword Insight left behind by that peerless sword immortal
when he tried to get through the Heavenpeak of Trials, you’ll understand what the true path
of a sword cultivator is.”

“No matter how formidable he was, didn’t he still die there?”

When he first met Ji Yu, Chen Xi had once heard Ji Yu mention that during this 1 million
years, for the sake of obtaining the inheritance left by Ji Yu’s master, countless formidable
cultivators had once challenged the Heavenpeak of Trials. Moreover, amongst them, the
most formidable was a peerless sword immortal from hundreds of thousands of years ago.
But, the sword immortal had merely passed the 13th level of the Heavenpeak of Trials
before meeting his end.

Ji Yu shook his head, then sighed. “It isn’t the same, it isn’t the same.”

The note had already turned to ash, so saying any more was of no use. Chen Xi quickly
placed his attention onto the surroundings, and as he looked at the empty room, he couldn’t
help but ask, “Senior Ji Yu, this is really the sword immortal’s abode?”

“If my inference isn’t mistaken, then this is the main hall that the immortal, Nether
Enlightenment, stayed in.” Ji Yu’s gaze swept the surroundings, and he suddenly stretched
out his hand to point at the jade bed. “Sit on it and circulate your True Essence.”

A flash of wisdom appeared in Chen Xi’s mind when he heard this, and said, “This jade
bed wouldn’t be the control center of the entire sword immortal’s abode, right?”

“Exactly. But with your current strength, you’re still unable to bind this immortal estate.
You can only rely on it to observe the entire immortal estate.”

As the spirit of the Manor that had lived for a million years, Ji Yu obviously knew all of
this like the back of his hand, and casually said, “If you want to obtain some valuable
treasures, then you should quickly figure out the distribution of this immortal estate. Take
action swiftly. You’re already later than those people by three days after all.”

Chen Xi naturally didn’t dare dally. When he sat on the jade bed, he felt a cool and
refreshing stream of air suffuse into his entire body, causing his mind to be unable to
refrain from becoming calm. Obviously, this jade bed had a marvelous effect towards
cultivating as well.

Om!

As soon as he circulated his True Essence, Chen Xi felt his mind chime, and a lifelike
image suddenly appeared before his eyes. On the top of the image were labels that said
Book Reserve Hall, Treasure Hall, etc. Shockingly, it was the layout map of this immortal
estate!

Chen Xi viewed them one by one and couldn’t help but exclaim in shock.

It turned out that this sword immortal’s estate was extremely enormous, covering an area of
about 500 km. The outer area of the estate was eight winding passageways that were long
and narrow, and they were respectively named as Fortune, Misfortune, Compliment,
Slander, Praise, Ridicule, Pain, and Joy; implying the truth behind the eight things that can
move a person’s heart.
A terrifying Triple Goldenarc Sword Formation was concealed within the ‘Fortune’
passageway, countless demonic souls roamed about the ‘Misfortune’ passageway,
Blackflame Lava from the core of the land flowed like a large river within the ‘Slander’
passageway…

Regardless of which passageway, terrifying killing intent was concealed within all of them!

Chen Xi shuddered with fear as he saw this and said inwardly, “If I were to enter the estate
through these eight passageways with my current cultivation, I’m afraid it would basically
be courting death.”

The end of the eight passageways was the core area of the estate, and it was once again
divided into four areas which were respectively the Book Reserve Hall, Treasure Hall,
Hundred Herb Hall, and Martial Dao Hall. At the center of these four great halls was the
main hall that Chen Xi currently resided in, and it was also the control center of the entire
estate.

Within these four secondary halls, various chambers were densely distributed like an ant
hill, and what treasure was stored within was unknown.

However, Chen Xi was elated that the main hall he resided in just happened to be able to
lead directly to these four secondary halls, and the way was without booby traps.

“Senior Ji Yu, do you think I should go to the Treasure Hall or Book Reserve Hall first?”

Chen Xi was slightly hesitant. Just as its name implied, the Treasure Hall surely contained
the various Magic Treasures and weapons left behind by the immortal, Nether
Enlightenment. Whereas the Book Reserve Hall naturally contained various cultivation
techniques. These two categories of things obviously possessed equally great temptation to
a cultivator.

As for the Hundred Herb Hall that cultivated treasures of heaven and earth, its temptation
was equally great. But to Chen Xi, its attractiveness was far inferior to the Treasure Hall
and Book Reserve Hall.

Whereas the Martial Dao Hall would presumably be the place the immortal, Nether
Enlightenment, trained his martial techniques, and its attractiveness to Chen Xi wasn’t
great.

“Hmm?” Before Ji Yu could even speak, Chen Xi suddenly noticed that there were
shockingly ten plus white halos moving on the map and had already left the ‘Praise’
passageway.

“The white halos ought to represent the cultivators that have entered the estate so that the
immortal, Nether Enlightenment, would be able to control everything from here.”
Chen Xi pondered inwardly for a short moment before his heart shook as he realized a trace
of something wrong. “There are only eight people in Chai Letian’s group, so these white
halos ought to be Su Jiao’s group, and looking at the direction they are heading, it’s
precisely the Treasure Hall… This won’t do! I absolutely can’t allow them to benefit!”

Whoosh!

Chen Xi stood up and charged out without hesitation.

“What have you found?” Ji Yu floated in the air as he followed Chen Xi. He didn’t look at
the map but was able to discern that Chen Xi’s expression was off.

“Someone is entering the Treasure Hall soon.” Chen Xi replied as he dashed rapidly.

“That little Su Clan girl?”

“Yes.”

“Oh, we’ll completely clean out the Treasure Hall and cause her to be unable to obtain a
single treasure. It’s indeed an extremely happy thing. Chen Xi, I support you in doing this.”

“…” Chen Xi was stunned, I never imagined that such a cool figure like Senior Ji Yu would
have the lofty sentiments of hating injustice like poison.

In next to no time, the two of them went along the side door to rush into the Treasure Hall.

“So many secret chambers?”

Chen Xi’s head couldn’t help but ache at the moment he entered the Treasure Hall and
gazed at the zigzag corridor that was filled with chambers. If he were to search them one by
one, he didn’t know how long it would take before he was able to find the true location that
the treasures were hidden in.

“Follow me!” Ji Yu’s gaze swept the surroundings, and he was silent for a moment before
floating along the corridor to head deep into the Treasure Hall.

Looks like I got worried for nothing. With Senior Ji Yu here, why should I worry about
being unable to find those treasures? Chen Xi was extremely elated in his heart as he
followed Ji Yu.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Not long after Chen Xi’s figure had vanished deep within the corridor, the main door of the
Treasure Hall that had been sealed for 10,000 years was opened.
“This is the Treasure Hall?” As she felt the pure and thick spirit energy that flowed in the
air and gazed at the numerous chambers that densely covered and extended into the depths
of the Treasure Hall, Su Jiao couldn’t help but exclaim in surprise and her eyes were filled
with burning desire.

“Haha! Our luck is too good indeed!” Cang Bin laughed loudly with an expression that was
extremely elated. “I heard that immortal estates are divided into various great halls, but in
terms of the most valuable, it was undoubtedly the Treasure Hall that stored various
treasures.”

“Everyone, we have no time to lose. Since so many chambers exist here, we can only split
up. As for whether we’re able to find any treasures, it will be up to our own fate.” Su Jiao
said with an excited tone.

“Haha! Precisely! If your luck has arrived, then you might be able to obtain an immortal
treasure!” Cang Bin was extremely excited as well.

“Then let’s split up!”

“OK! This suggestion isn’t bad. There are so many treasures and if we rely on our own fate,
then the problem of dividing the treasures wouldn’t exist. It couldn’t be better.”

The other people spoke out in approval.

Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

All of them swiftly dispersed and dashed towards the chambers in various places within
Treasure Hall.

They dashed forward for the time an incense stick took to burn before Ji Yu abruptly
stopped, his gaze shooting towards the nearby chamber that seemed ordinary.

“No wonder. So the door is actually suffused with a trace of the aura of Chaotic Lifesoil[1.
Chaos here refers to the scene when the world was created].” A rare trace of surprise was
emitted from Ji Yu’s ancient eyes.

Whereas when Chen Xi heard the word ‘Chaotic Lifesoil’ his entire body went still and he
almost didn’t dare believe his ears.

The Chaotic Lifesoil was a rare item that wasn’t within the five elements. According to
legend, at the chaotic times during the absolute beginning of the world, numerous beings of
the chaotic era were born from Chaotic Lifesoil. Once the heaven and earth were separated
from each other and the three dimensions were established, Chaotic Lifesoil was buried
within boundless time and had never appeared ever again.
Of course, this was merely a legend Chen Xi had heard and its truth couldn’t be verified.
But when he found out that a trace of the aura of Chaotic Lifesoil was actually suffused on
the chamber door before him, Chen Xi couldn’t help but be shocked fiercely.

“This trace of Chaotic Lifesoil aura has already become extremely faint, and it can’t be
gathered at all.” Ji Yu’s eyes faintly gazed at the chamber door and muttered to himself.
“But, this chamber door actually has a trace of Chaotic Lifesoil aura, the thing stored within
is surely extraordinary.”

As he spoke, Ji Yu casually pushed open the chamber door.

Whoosh!

The door had only just been slightly opened when a black silhouettes shot out swiftly like
lightning.

“I knew long ago that this would happen… Want to run? It isn’t that easy!”

Ji Yu smiled indifferently, and he flicked his sleeve as he spoke. A misty azure fog flowed
like a waterfall as it swept out to instantly envelop that black silhouette before dropping
onto Ji Yu’s palm.

The Azure fog dispersed to reveal the appearance of the black silhouette, and to Chen Xi’s
astonishment, the black silhouette was actually a fist-sized infant beast!

Roar!

The infant beast was entirely white as snow and furry, like a mini white lion. When it saw
Chen Xi gazing over, it glared with its pitch black and clear little eyes, then bared its fangs
as it emitted a roar, but its roar was extremely tender and didn’t possess the slightest bit of
deterrent force.

“It’s actually an infant Pixiu[1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pixiu.]!”

When he saw this infant beast, Ji Yu who’d always been indifferent as if he’d see through
all worldly matters emitted a rare and involuntary exclaim of shock.
Chapter 52 - Pixiu

Pixiu!

Chen Xi couldn’t help but gasp when he heard that this little fist-sized and snow white
infant beast was actually a Pixiu!

A Pixiu was a primordial divine beast, and it was an existence amongst divine beasts with
the most unique status. It devoured and collected the myriad of treasures of the world, and
was looked up to as a symbol of auspiciousness since ancient times, as it possessed the
bizarre ability to turn misfortune into luck.

“I never expected that a fallen sword immortal would actually be able to draw a Pixiu over
to accumulate karmic luck for him, it’s truly heaven defying good fortune.” Ji Yu gazed at
the Pixiu in his palm and repeatedly praised.

“Accumulate karmic luck?” Chen Xi was slightly muddled. According to his knowledge,
karmic luck was unreal and difficult to understand. It was absolutely not something that
could be seen with the naked eye, and it seemed extremely rare for there to be a method to
change one’s karmic luck.

However, there was a publically acknowledged saying in the cultivation world, a person
with exuberant karmic luck would usually receive providence from the Dao of the Heavens.
The person’s cultivation would be ever successful and achieved without effort, moreover,
the person would possess great fortune and obtain various enviable lucky encounters.
Whereas a person with insufficient karmic luck would have a life full of misfortune.
Although this misfortune wasn’t terrible to the extent of attracting an unexpected calamity,
the person would have no chance of having any great luck during the person’s lifetime.

Of course, due to karmic luck being unreal and impossible to be noticed with the naked eye,
the karmic luck of everyone would change according to various things that occurred.

At this moment, when he heard the Pixiu was actually able to accumulate the unreal karmic
luck, it was obvious how shocked Chen Xi’s mind was.

Ji Yu nodded. “Exactly. Towards ordinary people in the world, a Pixiu is an auspicious

beast that brings in wealth and treasure. But to cultivators, possessing a Pixiu at their side,
they would be completely capable of turning a person’s life around, or even the karmic luck
of an entire sect!”

As he spoke up to here, Ji Yu’s expression was complicated and he went silent for a long
time, then he sighed. “In short, you’ll understand the use of karmic luck once your
cultivation attains the Heavenly Immortal Realm.”

Heavenly Immortal Realm again?

Chen Xi couldn’t help but recall the instructions of his mother, Zuoqiu Xue. She’d said that
only when he’d attained the Heavenly Immortal Realm would he be able to see her,
otherwise, it would only be a disaster and not fortune.

Whereas at this moment, because of a fist-sized infant Pixiu and the divine ability it
possesses to accumulate karmic luck once again involved attaining the Heavenly Immortal
Realm, causing Chen Xi to faintly feel that it seemed that he would only have the
qualifications to do anything he wanted to do once he attained the Heavenly Immortal
Realm.

“Hmm?” Ji Yu’s expression slightly twitched as he seemed to have noticed something, and
he said, “Someone has entered the Treasure Hall, we have to take action quickly.”

Chen Xi’s heart constricted and he hurriedly pushed open the chamber door and walked in.

At the moment he entered, six incomparably enormous white jade racks entered his eyes,
and they were labeled at the top in order of yellow-rank, profound-rank, earth-rank, heaven-
rank, immortal artifact, and rare items. Obviously, these six enormous white jade racks
were precisely the place the immortal, Nether Enlightenment, used to store his treasures.

However…

At this moment, the six white jade racks were instead completely empty!

“Why is it like this?” Chen Xi hurriedly walked forward and his gaze swept past the white
jade racks. Not to mention Magic Treasures, there wasn’t even a hair on the racks, as it was
squeaky clean.

“Oh, now I remember. The treasures here ought to have been eaten by this Pixiu.” Ji Yu
was stunned as well, then he quickly recovered from his shock, then shook his head as he
laughed. “How could I have forgotten? This little fellow loves to eat treasures and rare
items. So long as it carried spirit energy with it, then no matter what it was, it would all be a
delicacy in its mouth.”

Chen Xi was instead unable to laugh and his gaze stared right at the Pixiu in Ji Yu’s palm.
He was truly unable to imagine how a body that was the size of a fist was actually able to
eat treasures that filled an entire room! How could this be possible?

Roar!

The furry and snow white infant Pixiu that was like a little lion bared its fangs at Chen Xi
as it roared twice, and it seemed to be demonstrating its might. But when coupled with its
tender roar and pair of clear pitch black little eyes, it didn’t seem ferocious but instead was
extremely cute. If a girl were to see it, the girl would surely knead it into a ball in her arms.
“Then haven’t we come here for nothing?” Chen Xi muttered, and as he gazed at the empty
white jade rack that was labeled with ‘immortal artifact.’ He really wished for nothing more
than to choke the Pixiu to death.

Immortal Artifacts!

Just these two words caused his blood to boil, but it just so happened that he’d missed the
opportunity to possess one…

“How could this be considered as coming here for nothing? I think your gains are already
great enough. Look properly, this is a Pixiu!” Ji Yu was extremely puzzled, and he said,
“Even if you have over 10,000 immortal artifacts, it would still be unable to compare with a
Pixiu!”

Chen Xi looked at Ji Yu’s serious and solemn expression and gaped, and he could only
forcefully swallow his belly full of grievance.

“Senior Ji Yu, let’s go to the Book Reserve.”

Chen Xi turned around to walk out of the chamber, and he still felt extreme regret in his
heart as he said inwardly, If it’s eaten then it’s eaten, there shouldn’t be any divine beast
that likes to eat those cultivation techniques, right?

Step! Step! Step!

A wave of constant footsteps resounded.

Not long after Chen Xi left, a young man in royal blue clothing excitedly pushed open the
chamber door and walked in.

“Eh!” When he saw the ‘immortal artifact’ and other labels on the six white jade racks, his
expression suddenly became excited, and his breathing became hurried as well. However,
when his gaze descended onto the completely empty racks, his face instantly froze, and his
body started to tremble involuntarily as a mouthful of fresh blood surged out of his throat.

“Ah! Ah! Ah! God dammit! Everything from yellow-rank Magic Treasures to Immortal
Artifacts were here, yet someone beat me to the punch and wiped it squeaky clean…
Motherfucker! It’s fine if you take the larger portion, but you don’t even leave scraps for
others?”

The lips of the blue clothed young man trembled as he emitted a sharp howl full of grief,
and his voice was so loud that it spread throughout the entire Treasure Hall’s corridors.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh!

In next to no time, numerous figures appeared within this chamber, and as they gazed at the
six completely empty white jade racks, they knew that someone had beaten them to the
punch. Their expressions became extremely unsightly.

“Bloody hell! If I find out who did this, I’ll definitely skin him alive!”

“Look at the words, Immortal Artifacts were stored on that white jade rack! It was actually
swept clean by someone, he… he… We’re all fellow daoists, how could he have been so
selfish?”

“Truly going too far. He doesn’t even know the rules of the cultivation world. He’s too god
damn virtueless!”

These young men and women were the young geniuses from the great powers of Dragon
Lake City and were existences like favored geniuses of the gods. Normally, they were
extremely arrogant and haughty, and they’d entered the sword immortal’s abode this time
while carrying extremely large hopes.

However, at this moment, as they gazed upon the completely empty surroundings, they
recalled how they’d been exhausted to death all the way here and took such a huge risk
coming here, yet didn’t get anything. They didn’t care about bearing any longer as they
burst out all at once, insulting that fellow who greedily emptied out the entire room and left
nothing behind.

“Did all of you not find any treasures within the other chambers?” Su Jiao expression was
extremely unsightly, as she’d searched over 100 chambers earlier but actually didn’t find a
single treasure.

“Yeah!”

“Exactly!”

The others were stunned, then they repeatedly nodded as they agreed with what the others
said before them.

Su Jiao was extremely furious as she stared fixedly at the six completely empty white jade
racks and said, “Looks like this is the true place that treasures are stored within the
Treasure Hall, but it just so happened that someone has beat us to the punch. Truly
detestable!”

“Is it Du Qingxi’s group?” Cang Bin said suddenly, his face was pitch black like the bottom
of a pan. Obviously, he was extremely aggrieved as well.

“Impossible, we arrived before them.” Su Jiao shook her head in denial.

“Then… Is it those Violet Palace Realm cultivators that came from others places in the
southern territory?” Cang Bin still clearly remembered that when they left Bloodbath City,
his group wasn’t the first to have left.

“Never mind, let's not think about it for now. This place is only the Treasure Hall and we
haven’t gone to the other halls. Now that the Treasure Hall has already been completely
robbed of everything it had, we can’t allow others to take the treasures within the other
halls.”

Su Jiao took a deep breath and forcefully restrained the rage in her heart before slowly
saying, “If we’re able to hurry over in time, we even might be able to find that fellow that
robbed the Treasure Hall of everything!”

The others awoke from their rage when they heard this, and they understood that what Su
Jiao said was indeed the most important matter right now. Immediately, all of them carried
their bellyful of grievance as they dashed out of the Treasure Hall under Su Jiao’s lead.

They desperately urged their True Essence and didn’t stop a moment on the way at all.

Just you wait, kid. This Young Master’s things aren't so easily taken!

God damn it! If I catch this kid, I’ll surely skin him alive, inch by inch!

This fellow is too cruel! I wonder if this fellow is a man or a woman. If he’s a man, then if
the Dao Companion this Young Miss has in the future is of similar virtue to him, I’ll
fucking kill him!

After a quarter of an hour.

Su Jiao led the others out of a hall with a gloomy expression.

“What a rubbish Martial Dao Hall! There were just a few rocks in there, it was even inferior
to my Azuresun Sect’s training grounds…” One of them couldn’t refrain from saying
angrily.

Su Jiao couldn’t endure it any longer and snapped. “Shut up!”

At this moment, she was truly unable to control her feelings any longer. They went to the
Treasure Hall, but someone had beaten them to the punch and cleaned it out. They’d come
to the Martial Dao Hall, but there were only some lousy rocks used for cultivating sword
techniques. Not mentioning having gone these places for nothing, they’d also wasted a
huge amount of time. How could she be able to endure the rage in her heart when she
thought of the possibility that others might be dividing up the treasures within the other
halls right now?
“Let’s go! We’ll go to the other hall. Even if all the treasures have been obtained by others,
we’ll seize it from them!” Killing intent openly raged within Su Jiao’s voice.

The others all revealed fierce gazes when they saw this and they followed behind Su Jiao to
violently dash forward. The strengths of these people were fairly outstanding in the first
place, coupled with the flames of rage that broke out within their chests, it was only a short
moment before they’d already arrived before another hall.

“Book Reserve Hall? Dammit, someone has gone in!” Su Jiao’s eyes lit up, but her face
couldn’t help but go cold when she saw the half open door, and she said word for word,
“Looks like we really have to kill others and seize the treasures.”

“God damn it! I’ve been wanting to kill someone since a long time ago!”

“I was waiting for you to say this, this Young Master is about to die from grievance.”

“Let’s go!”

Everyone had a bellyful of grievance and practically didn’t need to be notified as they
impatiently charged into the hall with raging killing intent, and their appearances seemed
like bandits that wished for nothing more than to kill people and rob them.
Chapter 53 - Forces Gather

Book Reserve Hall

Contrary to the layout of the Treasure Hall, there weren’t any chambers, and at the instant
one entered the hall, it was an enormous space that covered an area of 3,000 meters.

Rows upon rows of 30m tall bookshelves could be found all over. They stood layer upon
layer to occupy every space within the entire hall. If one were to look down from a high
vantage point, one would be able to see that these rows of bookshelves formed an octagonal
shape, and were like orderly layers of a blossoming flower bud.

Walking within it was like walking into a winding maze. Everywhere one’s gaze passed
was filled bookshelves that were densely piled with jade slips, and one was unable to
discern any direction.

At this moment, Chen Xi had stopped before a bookshelf, as he’d walked along the hall and
gone around all the bookshelves.

“Talisman crafting, puppeteering, taming, botany, divine abilities, techniques… This Book
Reserve Hall actually covers and contains everything!” Chen Xi couldn’t help but exclaim
in surprise.

Nearby, Ji Yu put down a jade slip in his hand and shook his head. “A huge number doesn’t
mean it’s rare and valuable. According to what I’ve seen, most of the jade slips are all
ordinary.”

Chen Xi didn’t argue, as he knew that Ji Yu was extremely picky, and Ji Yu holding these
jade slips in contempt was within reason. Moreover, these jade slips were extremely
precious to Chen Xi.

He was impoverished since a young age. When he’d gone to Pine Mist City’s Exquisite
Pavilion to purchase the martial techniques he’d required, he was actually ridiculed by the
female attendant. If it wasn’t for the Little Princess of the General’s Estate, Qin Hongmian,
stepping forward, he could only swallow the insult and humiliation silently, then leave in
dejection.

So, at this moment, he’d already decided inwardly that even if he didn’t cultivate it, he
would still take away these jade slips that were practically as vast as the ocean. Exchanging
them for spirit stones would still be an enormous sum of wealth!

However, right at this moment, a wave of footsteps suddenly sounded out from outside the
hall.

Someone has come so quickly!

Chen Xi was shocked inwardly. At this moment, it was already impossible for him to
plunder all these jade slips, but he was extremely reluctant to miss the opportunity to obtain
so many jade slips.

What should I do?

I came back empty handed from the Treasure Hall, could it be that I’m going to meet the
same fate at the Book Reserve Hall now?

“I’ve helped you picked sword techniques, divine abilities, and movement techniques.
What else do you lack?” As he spoke, Ji Yu extended his hand out and successively swept
it through the air, and numerous jade slips flew over to him as if they’d grown wings.

Chen Xi was stunned, then asked. “Can we take them all?”

Ji Yu’s face sank and he stopped what he was doing.

Chen Xi cursed inwardly. He’d been together with Ji Yu for a long time and understood Ji
Yu’s character extremely well. Ji Yu could devote himself to guide Chen Xi’s cultivation,
but if Chen Xi were to ask him to do something he wasn’t willing to do, then it would
absolutely not be possible.

According to what Ji Yu said, only when Chen Xi had passed all the trials within the
Heavenpeak of Trials to become the personal disciple of the Master of the Manner would
Chen Xi be able to order him around.

At this moment, when he saw Ji Yu was displeased, Chen Xi apologized right away.
“Senior Ji Yu I’m sorry, it was junior that was too greedy. If I’m able to choose, then I hope
to obtain some talisman crafting jade slips.”

Chen Xi knew that so long as he spoke of things related to talisman crafting, Ji Yu would
surely be extremely happy. Because his Master, Senior Fuxi, had precisely observed the
River Diagram to deduce the profound meaning behind the cycle of the secrets of the
heavens to gain sudden comprehension the Grand Dao and ascend to the peak of the Dao.

Whereas it was precisely because he himself had comprehension in the Dao of Talismans
that he was able to walk out of the Star Secret Realm and obtain Ji Yu’s acknowledgment.

As expected, Ji Yu’s expression instantly eased up significantly when he heard that Chen
Xi was still constantly thinking of the Dao of Talismans. Ji Yu snorted coldly before
extending his hand out to sweep through the air, and 10 plus jade slips once again shot out
towards him.

13 talisman crafting jade slips, coupled with the jade slips related to sword techniques,
movement techniques, and divine abilities, I already possess 20 jade slips. Although it’s
only a speck in the vast ocean that is the Book Reserve Hall, jade slips that were able to be
picked by Senior Ji Yu ought to be gems within this sea.

Chen Xi casually stored the jade slips within his storage ring, then followed behind Ji Yu to
dash off the way he came in.

The sound of footsteps grew closer and closer, and it was vaguely mixed with the
clamorous sounds of people. All the cultivators that were able to enter the hall were at the
Violet Palace Realm and had formed groups before coming; the large gap in their strengths
and numbers caused Chen Xi to not dare stay on any longer. Moreover, for the sake of
preventing his tracks from being noticed, he didn’t even touch the numerous jade slips on
the nearby bookshelves as he was afraid others would notice something from the traces left
behind.

Different to how the others entered the hall via the main door, Chen Xi had entered through
a concealed little passageway from the Main Hall. If one didn’t search carefully, it would
be extremely difficult to notice this passageway, so, he didn’t encounter a single cultivator
all through his return journey.

“Hahaha! Book Reserve Hall! The Book Reserve Hall the immortal, Nether Enlightenment,
left behind!” Hoarse and shrill laughter suddenly resounded out within the hall. “The jade
slips on these rows of bookshelves are probably at least a few tens of thousands and have
been covered in dust for 10,000 years. Now it will instead benefit us. It’s truly an extremely
great good fortune.”

This fellow really doesn’t disguise his excitement, huh? Chen Xi stood before a far away
concealed door and couldn’t help but shake his head when he heard this voice, and he was
just about to step into the concealed door and leave when he suddenly heard a familiar
voice sound out, causing him to stop dead in his tracks.

“Fellow Daoists of the Phoenixcloud Sect, aren’t you getting excited too soon?” The voice
was hearty and warm, but when it entered Chen Xi’s ears, it instead caused killing intent to
surge within his heart.

Chai Letian!

Even if he’d turned to ash, Chen Xi would still recognize the owner of this voice.

As he recalled being stabbed in the back by this fellow in the Crimsonflame Mountain
Range which caused him to fall down the deep chasm, the hatred in Chen Xi’s heart
uncontrollably surged, and his expression went extremely icy cold.

“Senior Ji Yu, I’ve decided to stay back.” Chen Xi took a deep breath and sent a voice
transmission with a deep voice.
Ji Yu glanced at Chen Xi and said indifferently, “Take care of your enemy yourself. I won't
help you even if you’re killed by him.”

Chen Xi nodded, only by killing his enemy with his own two hands would he be able to
vent the roiling hatred in his heart.

Whoosh!

Chen Xi glanced at the surroundings, then his body arched as the tip of his feet lightly
tapped the floor and he nimbly scurried up the stone beam in the corner like a silent leopard
cat. This stone beam was three meters wide and was arranged in a crisscross pattern with
tens of stone beams, like a large net that ran through the top of the entire hall, and he didn’t
have to worry about being discovered when hiding here.

Moreover, he was able to see the scene within the entire hall from this position. According
to Chen Xi’s conjecture, those Phoenixcloud Sect cultivators would surely initiate a battle
with Chai Letian’s group for the sake of competing for the jade slips within the hall. In this
way, he would be completely able to hide here and pick the best opportunity to launch a
sneak attack on Chai Letian!

Violet Palace Realm cultivators already possessed Perception Force, moreover, their six
senses were acute and were extremely sensitive to their surroundings. Chen Xi didn’t dare
utilize his Perception Force. He restrained the aura on his entire body then lay flat on the
stone beam, like a wisp of a black silhouette. At the same time, his eyes narrowed into slits
as he carefully gazed at the hall below.

At this moment, two groups of cultivators had already gathered within the hall.

One group was the group of cultivators led by Chai Letian, with Chen Xi’s acquaintances
like Du Qingxi, Duanmu Ze, Song Lin…

Whereas, on the opposite side was a few unfamiliar cultivators who wore varied clothing
and were of various ages. The four people in the lead were extremely conspicuous, a gaunt
old man, a stalwart middle aged man, a young man and a young woman. The four of them
wore similar crimson-purple robes with exquisite patterns of a fire phoenix dancing in the
air while surrounded by clouds. They were shockingly those Phoenixcloud Sect cultivators
that Chen Xi had seen within Bloodbath City.

At the moment, the two groups had already taken out their Magic Treasures and weapons
and were in confrontation on the space in the middle of the bookshelves, ready to fight.

The gaunt old man from Phoenixcloud Sect said coldly, “Hmph! Even though all of you are
disciples that are from the various great powers of Dragon Lake City and have
extraordinary status, but I’m sorry, for the sake of the jade slips here, asking us to leave is
absolutely impossible. Not only would I, Fu Heng, not agree, the fellow daoists behind me
would absolutely not agree as well!”
“Right, we’ll absolutely not agree.”

“Want us to leave on our own? No chance!”

All the other cultivators behind the gaunt old man echoed his views, yet their expressions
weren’t relaxed. Obviously, Chai Letian’s group brought quite an amount of pressure to
them.

“Why torture yourselves? If you offend us, then would your small sects be able to live on
happily after this?” Chai Letian said unhurriedly, “Could it be that all of you aren’t worried
that the sects all of you represent will be pulled up from the roots and completely
annihilated?”

“I advise all of you to leave quickly. Brother Chai’s ancestor is one of the great Nether
Transformation Realm cultivators of the southern territory. Dealing with all of you would
only be a matter of giving the order.” The Myriadcloud Institution’s Yu Haobai shook his
head and sighed. He seemed elegant and refined, yet his tone was filled with the intent to
curry favor with Chai Letian.

The gaunt Fu Heng’s expression flickered between a pale and grim expression, and he was
violently struggling within his heart. Whereas behind him, the expressions of those
cultivators from various cities in the southern territory had mostly become quite gloomy.

The deterrent force of a Nether Transformation Realm cultivator is so great?

Chen Xi couldn’t help but become anxious when he saw Fu Heng and the other’s will to
fight was fading. If Fu Heng’s group fled before a battle, then his plans to sneak attack
Chen Letian would come to naught.

“Hmph! According to my knowledge, the great Nether Transformation Realm cultivator,

Senior Chai Shao, isn’t a person that’s unreasonable. Not to mention that this sword
immortal’s abode is derelict and the jade slips here belong to whomever who gets it. Aren’t
you going too far by asking us to leave with just a word?”

Fu Heng gritted his teeth. “In my opinion, why don’t we do it like this? If Fellow Daoist
Chai agrees, then my group will take 40% of the jade slips here, and the remaining 60%
belongs to your group, how about it?”

“Absolutely impossible!” Chai Letian refused right away and sneered coldly. “Want to take
things from me? You aren’t worthy! I’ll give you another ten breaths of time, hurry up and
fuck off from this hall. Otherwise, don’t blame us for being merciless!”

“You…” Fu Heng’s eyes were wide open with exasperation, and he was actually angered to
the point he was unable to speak.
“Hmph! You dare come here and try taking things from me with this level of courage?
Hurry up! Five breaths of time have already passed.” Chai Letian shook his head in disdain.

These fellows have the intentions but not the courage!

Chen Xi couldn’t help but be speechless as he gazed at Fu Heng’s group who didn’t dare do
anything and were silently swallowing the insult and humiliation.

“Hmph! I was wondering who it was, so it turned out to be Fellow Daoist Chai from
Starnet Palace!” It was at this moment that a delicate voice of a woman slowly echoed out
within the hall.

Chen Xi gazed over and couldn’t refrain from saying inwardly,   Shit! Su Jiao’s group has
actually come here as well!
Chapter 54 - Playing Tricks

Along with the entrance of Su Jiao’s group into the Book Reserve Hall, the confrontational
atmosphere became even more strained.

As they gazed at the two groups of people who were in conflict, Su Jiao and the group
behind her had incomparably gloomy expressions with gazes filled with undisguised killing
intent.

Another 13 people have come! Moreover, they’re all disciples of the various large powers
of Dragon Lake City!

The Pheonixcloud Sect’s Fu Heng gasped inwardly. At this moment, the development of
the situation had already exceeded his expectations, but the only thing that made him feel
relieved was that due to the entrance of Su Jiao’s group, even if Chai Letian’s group wanted
to make a move against him, they would surely have scruples.

The expressions of Chai Letian and the people behind him all went serious when they saw
Su Jiao’s group and they lost their earlier expressions of having victory within their grasps.

At this moment, a shocking three way had formed within the hall, three powers each taking
a corner and restraining each other, and a slight movement may affect the situation as a
whole. Under these circumstances, no one dared make a rash move.

“Miss Su, the Book Reserve Hall has already been occupied by us now. All of you better
not interfere here and harm the good relationship between each other, that wouldn’t be a
good sight to behold.” Chai Letian said coldly.

Su Jiao who had a bellyful of rage from coming out empty handed from the Treasure Hall
and Martial Dao Hall couldn’t help but sneer when she saw Chai Letian wanting to drive
her off the moment he spoke. “Cut the crap, that old freak from your clan can’t scare me.”

“Audacious!” Yu Haobai behind Chai Letian shouted out explosively. “Senior Chai Shao is
one of the few remaining Nether Transformation Realm cultivators within the southern
territory, and you actually dare insult him as an old freak? You really have no idea of death
or danger!”

“Hmph! Cut the crap! Isn’t it just comparing ancestors?”

Cang Bin who was beside Su Jiao sneered silently, then said, “Chai Letian has a Nether
Transformation Realm ancestor backing him, but Miss Su’s elder brother Su Chan has
already become the only closed door disciple of the Wanderingcloud Sword Sect’s Rebirth
Realm sword cultivator, Ancestor Ling Du in a thousand years. Do you think that what you
said has any meaning now?”
Ancestor Ling Du!

All the people present including Chai Letian seemed as if they’d heard an extremely
terrifying thing, and their faces went pale in unison.

Su Jiao’s elder brother has actually become a disciple of Ancestor Ling Du?

Atop a concealed corner on the far away stone beams that were extremely high up, Chen Xi
couldn’t help but be shocked. If one were to speak in terms of the most formidable, then
amongst the powers of Dragon Lake City, the Wanderingcloud Sword Sect would take the
top without a doubt.

Allegedly, there were quite many formidable Earthly Immortal Realm sword cultivators
living in seclusion within Wanderingcloud Sword Sect!

Ancestor Ling Du was precisely a well-renowned Rebirth Realm sword cultivator within
Wanderingcloud Sword Sect. His temper was explosive and slaughtered cruelly, and his
reputation was extremely resounding within the entire southern territory’s cultivation world
and could be said to be known by all.

“Hmph! No wonder you’re so confident. So it turned out lucky bastard, Su Chan, has
become a disciple of Ancestor Ling Du.” Chai Letian’s expression quickly returned to
normal, then he shook his head and said in disdain, “Su Chan is Su Chan, you Su Jiao are
Su Jiao. Do you think Ancestor Ling Du would offend the ancestor of my clan for your
sake?”

Su Jiao’s expression remained unfazed, yet she sighed inwardly, Chai Letian was correct
indeed. She wasn’t directly related to Ancestor Ling Du after all and it was merely able to
allow her to put on some tiger skin. It was absolutely impossible for her to get Ancestor
Ling Du to offend a Nether Transformation Realm cultivator which was a Realm higher
than himself for her sake.

However, Su Jiao was absolutely not a simple person, and her eyes balls revolved and she’d
already thought of a plan. She paid no attention to Chai Letian and instead shot her gaze as
Fu Heng and the others before saying with a smile, “I presume all of you are unwilling to
enter the Book Reserve Hall but leave empty handed, right? How about we join forces and
kill all of them? We’ll share all the jade slips within this hall equally, how about it?”

Fu Heng had never expected that Su Jiao would put forward such a suggestion, and he was
stunned briefly before saying, “But…”

Su Jiao interrupted. “You don’t have to worry about anything else. This is the Southern
Barbaric Nether Domain after all. So long as we don’t speak of it, then no one will know
who’d killed anyone within this place.”
Right! So long as we annihilate Chai Letian’s group and share the jade slips amongst our
two groups, who would be stupid enough to reveal this incident to another?

Fu Heng’s gaze burned with desire as he’d obviously been moved by Su Jiao’s words.

Su Jiao’s suggestion was indeed vicious and effective. Chai Letian’s group only consisted
of eight Violet Palace Realm cultivators and weren’t able to compare with any of the other
two groups. If they were to be attacked by the joint forces of these two groups, the two
groups were indeed capable of completely annihilating Chai Letian’s group.

“Fellow Daoist Fu, if you dare do this, then you’ll surely regret it!” Chai Letian was
eventually unable to maintain his composure, and his face abruptly went grim as he
shouted, “Could it be that you’re not afraid that Su Jiao would burn the bridge after
crossing it and kill all of you, then take possession of all the jade slips within this hall?”

Fu Heng was stunned and his expression once again became indecisive. Obviously, he was
worried that Su Jiao would do this as well.

“How about all of you work together with me, we’ll annihilate Su Jiao’s groups. We’ll split
these jade slips according to what you said earlier, how about a four to six split?” Chai
Letian inwardly heaved a sigh of relief and struck while the iron was hot.

Fu Heng was in an extremely difficult position.

He’d completely never imagined that his group which was originally the weakest had
become a hot cake that both of the other two groups had to fight for. It just so happened that
for the sake of guarding against the others burning the bridge after crossing it, he couldn’t
agree to either of the two groups.

What should I do?

When faced with such a situation, Fu Heng and the others behind him were all in a difficult
situation between the two groups.

Dammit! If they continue discussing like this, they’ll figure something out sooner or later.
In this way, how am I to take advantage of the commotion to sneak attack Chai Letian?

Chen Xi couldn’t help but become inwardly anxious when he saw the three groups of
people not getting into battle for a long time, then a flash of inspiration flashed within his
mind as he suddenly thought of an excellent plan.

——

Time trickled by, yet the atmosphere was more and more oppressive. The groups were
unable to start a fight, nor were they able to split up the jade slips within the hall, and they
could only stand by anxiously and waste time.
“In my opinion, our three groups shouldn’t contend with each other any longer. How about
we discuss a way to share all these jade slips?” Chai Letian was finally impatient from
waiting and he put forward his suggestion with reluctance in his heart.

“Alright, we agree if this is possible.” Su Jiao inwardly heaved a sigh of relief. She was
afraid they’d continue wasting time like and another person would interfere into the matter,
then the situation would be even more chaotic.

“The suggestion of Fellow Daoist Chai is indeed what we’re anxiously looking forward to.”
Fu Heng let out a long sigh as well. Comparatively speaking, his group of was the weakest
and possessed the strongest pressure, so he was naturally unwilling to get into a fight with
the other two groups.

However, right at this moment, an unexpected voice abruptly resounded within the hall.

“Brother Chai, things aren’t going well. Those people from the Phoenixcloud Sect are
actually gathering precious jade slips as well!”

Phoenixcloud Sect?

Gathering precious jade slips?

Everyone present was stunned when they heard this.

Chen Xi?

He’s actually still alive?

When this voice entered the ears of Du Qingxi, Duanmu Ze, and Song Lin, their hearts
suddenly shook and their faces were filled with disbelief.

That trash is actually still alive? But what does he mean by what he just said? Chai Letian
was stunned, then he figured it out and his face instantly went black like the bottom of a
pan. God damn it! What atrocious methods!

Su Jiao had discerned who the owner of the voice was and her gaze swept towards behind
Chai Letian. As expected, she didn’t notice a trace of Chen Xi. When she recalled the
information revealed from what Chen Xi said, her face instantly when extremely icy cold
and she started laughing out of extreme rage, then said word for word. “You, Chai Letian,
deserve to be called scheming and calculating. You first send people to gather the precious
jade slips, then put forward the suggestion to share the jade slips within the hall equally,
leaving those trash jade slips to us… You’re truly going too far!”

“Miss Su, listen to me. Chen Xi is deceiving all of you, he hasn’t been one of us for a long
time now…” Chai Letian hurriedly explained.
“It has already come to this and you still want to give excuses? Did you think I didn’t
notice Chen Xi following all of you since he left Bloodbath City?”

Clang!

As she spoke, a flying sword that was fiery red as if it was ablaze suddenly appeared in Su
Jiao’s hand, and her expression was livid. “Looks like we can only resolve this through
battle. Everyone, we’ve been played by these damnable bastards! Kill these two faced
despicable people!”

Clang! Clang! Clang!

Cang Bin and the others recovered from their shock and the grievances accumulated from
the Treasure Hall and Martial Dao Hall mixed with the rage from being deceived exploded
out now with a bang. They all drew their weapons and gritted their teeth as they charged to
attack Chai Letian’s group.

“I…” Chai Letian was enraged to the point his body trembled. He wanted to explain but
before he could even finish what he wanted to say, he saw various Magic Treasures with
threatening glows of spirit energy covering the entire heaven and earth as they smashed
towards him. He didn’t dare hesitate as he drew out a Magic Treasure with a flick of his
hand and moved to intercept the attacks.

God damn it! We’re innocent!

The others behind Chai Letian were incomparably aggrieved as well, but when they saw Su
Jiao’s group attacking without distinguishing between black and white, they became
enraged as well. Instantly, their faces went gloomy as they drew their personal Magic
Treasures and entered the fray.

“Kill!”

“Kill them!”

“Dammit!”

Su Jiao’s group of 13 and Chai Letian’s group of 8 were all Violet Palace Realm
cultivators. At this moment, when they each executed the skills they were adept in, True
Essence shook and roared within the hall. A terrifying stream of air was like a sharp saber
as it swept through the surroundings, leaving behind shocking cracks on the walls of the
hall.

There was an enormous blood-red sword that transformed into a flood dragon as it soared
in the sky, biting and roaring.
There were over 100 flying swords with dense cold lights that were weaved together to
form a sword formation which emitted billowing killing intent.

There were roiling black torrents that surged out from within a spirit streamer, rumbling as
it charged towards its enemies.

All sorts of Magic Treasures, absolutely ingenious combat measures, and various lights that
were disorderly and gorgeous yet filled with a terrifying aura… The destruction caused by
all of these colliding with each other seemed to tear space into pieces.

The terrifying stream of air caused by the chaotic battle surged towards the surroundings
and instantly blasted all the bookshelves in the hall onto the ground, destroying them into
pieces. Whereas those jade slips that rolled all over the floor like mercury were pulverized
into powder before transforming into ash that disappeared with the wind.

The wages for avarice was death!

It just so happened that at this moment, no one cared about the jade slips within the hall as
they’d all gone berserk from the slaughter. They exerted all the might within their bodies as
they roared and shouted, wishing for nothing more than to make their opponent die a
miserable death in their hands. For a time, the scene seemed to be incomparably horrifying,
like a living hell.
Chapter 55 - Hundred Herb Hall

“Hey! Old dog, want to flee after you sent people to gather all the precious jade slips?
Don’t you dare move!”

Cang Bin shouted out explosively, and the Redlotus Bloodsoul sword in his hand danced
about, transforming into an enormous blood colored waterfall that cleaved straight towards
Fu Heng.

Dammit! I was entrapped as well, okay?

Fu Heng was already angered to the point that his gaunt face trembled after he swung his
hand to draw out a glowing glazed colored shield made of feathers to block the enormous
blood colored sword that was heading towards him.

He didn’t know Chen Xi, but when Chen Xi said the words Phoenixcloud Sect earlier, it
caused him to instantly become like a rat on the streets, chased by all with the intent to kill.
Regardless of whether it was Su Jiao’s or Chai Letian’s groups, they’d all taken him to be a
despicable person who’d stolen the precious jade slips and they attacked him viciously and
mercilessly, forcing him to the point he was nearly unable to withstand the attacks.

Clang! Clang! Clang!

The Redlotus Bloodsoul Sword was like a sledgehammer under the control of Cang Bin’s
fierce and raging energy as it repeatedly smashed onto the Glazed Feather Shield. The
terrifying force from the sword smashed onto Fu Heng to the point his entire body trembled
unceasingly. Then his face went pale; he couldn’t restrain it any longer and spat out a
mouthful of fresh blood.

I’m fucking innocent! INNOCENT!

Fu Heng yelled and roared within his heart. Although he had never met Chen Xi before, he
already hated Chen Xi to the bones for throwing him into such a trap.

It wasn’t just Fu Heng, all the people in his group suffered the same treatment, being
chased around by Su Jiao and Chai Letian’s group with an intent to kill. Whereas when
they intended to counterattack, they instead noticed that Su Jiao’s group and Chai Letian’s
group had already lumped together in battle. This sort of utterly chaotic situation almost
caused them to be unable to figure out who exactly was the enemy!

Could it be that we must stand still and receive their attacks before we can counterattack

Tears covered the faces of Fu Heng’s group who suffered an undeserved calamity.

…
Outside the Book Reserve Hall.

After yelling out earlier, Chen Xi didn’t hesitate in the slightest and dashed out of the Book
Reserve Hall from the concealed passageway. At this moment, a trace of guilt couldn’t help
but rise in his heart as he heard the waves of terrifying sounds of battle echoing out from
within the hall, as he felt he’d wronged Du Qingxi, Duanmu Ze, and Song Lin.

Since entering the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain and up to the point they entered the
Crimsonflame Mountain Range, the three of them had taken good care of him and had
taken him to be a friend. Whereas now, because of something he’d said, they’d fallen into
chaotic battle, and this caused Chen Xi to feel slightly sorry.

It’s an undeserved calamity!

I only hope they can survive, please don’t let anything happen to them…

Chen Xi shook his head after silently pondering for a short moment, then he put away his
thoughts before leaping out to dash towards the concealed little passageway that headed to
the Hundred Herb Hall.

According to his deduction, the battle within the Book Reserve Hall would surely continue
for some time before a victor could be decided. He was completely capable of seizing the
opportunity when the three groups were in a chaotic battle to clean out the Hundred Herb
Hall.

Not long after, Chen Xi stepped foot into the Hundred Herb Hall.

The moment he stepped into the Hundred Herb Hall, the spirit energy that was suffused in
the air had actually condensed into numerous masses of mist, and when breathed in, the
pure and copious amounts of spirit energy flowed through his entire body, causing Chen
Xi’s spirit to be refreshed.

What a great place!

This estate has already existed for 10,000 years and the spirit energy here is still so dense,
it’s simply unbelievable! Under the nurturing of such dense spirit energy, the quality of the
precious plants and herbs within here would surely be extraordinary!

As Chen Xi breathed in the copious spirit energy in the air that contained traces of the
delicate fragrances of grass and trees, his eyes were extremely bright.

Chen Xi didn’t hesitate and started searching through the entire Hundred Herb Hall.

The Hundred Herb Hall covered an area of an 500 km and was a hundred times larger than
the Treasure Hall and Book Reserve Hall. After spending nearly an eighth of an hour, Chen
Xi finally found the location of the spirit farmland, and he couldn’t help but secretly heave
a sigh of relief.

This was a spirit farmland that was an entire 7 plus hectares large, and numerous mist
clouds drifted above it. The mist clouds were like cotton and emitted an enchanting luster.
Chen Xi shockingly noticed after sizing it up, that these mist clouds were actually all
condensed from spirit energy!

However, when his gaze descended onto the spirit farmland, he couldn’t help but be
stunned.

Atop the jet-black and glossy soil was a barren land. Some spirit plants could be vaguely
seen atop the spirit farmland, but they were dead and had withered for god knew how long.
As he gazed from afar, there was actually not a single spirit plant that was alive.

Strange… The spirit energy here is so copious, why have all these spirit plants withered
and died?

Chen Xi frowned and walked into the spirit farmland, and he swiftly flashed all the way to
dash to the depths of the spirit farmland.

Gush! Gush!

After dashing for nearly 50km, Chen Xi suddenly heard an extremely faint sound of water
flowing, and he’d noticed at this moment as well that along with him going deeper into the
spirit farmland, the nearby spirit energy had become even more copious.

Chen Xi dashed another tens of kilometers towards the sound of water before seeing a
spring gurgling out. The spring water was pure and flawless like milk, and it emitted a
shocking amount of spirit energy.

It’s actually a spirit spring!

Chen Xi practically recognized what the spring was with a single glance, and he couldn’t
help but gasp. Could it be that a top-grade spirit vein was concealed here?

Most of the great powers in the world possessed their own prosperous grounds that
accumulated spirit energy, and they were superb locations for cultivating. The reason the
spirit energy within these prosperous grounds was abundant was the existence of spirit
veins.

Spirit veins were divided into various grades according to their quality, but a spirit spring
that was covered by countless cultivators would only appear nearby a top-grade spirit vein!

This was because the springs that flowed out from a spirit spring were all spirit liquids that
were condensed from spirit energy. After cultivators advanced to the Violet Palace Realm,
spirit stones and spirit crystals were useless to them and they had to use spirit liquids to
cultivate.

However, for an ordinary cultivator, it wasn’t such an easy thing to obtain spirit liquids.
Unless one became a disciple of a great sect or clan, otherwise, one could only produce an
enormous amount of spirit stones and spirit crystals to purchase spirit liquids or use
treasures to exchange for spirit liquids. This was also precisely the reason why spirit liquids
were precious.

Chen Xi took a deep breath and moved his gaze away from the spirit spring with great
difficulty, and only now did he see clearly that a delicate and beautiful lotus that glowed in
a misty golden light was shockingly growing on the spirit farmland nearby the spirit spring.
Under the cover of the dense mist of spirit energy, it was truly difficult to notice if he didn’t
look carefully.

This lotus wasn’t large and was only 65cm tall. Its stem was dazzling like gold with dense
striations on its upper portion and glowed with a metallic luster. Every layer of the delicate
and beautiful golden lotus petals were fully bloomed, and it contained a myriad of stamens
and pistils that were like strands of golden needles linked together, a feast for the eyes. The
entire lotus didn’t have a trace of anything out of place. It was entirely perfect, causing one
to have to praise the miracles of the god of creation.

Chen Xi’s gaze was attracted by a golden fruit that was covered at the center of the layers
upon layers of flower petals, and strands of stamens and pistils. It was only the size of a
goose egg and was completely round. Its surface was coiled by a layer of spirit energy
flames, and a strand of sharp aura that seemed material surged out from it, causing it to
seem extremely mystical.

This is…

Chen Xi wracked his brains but couldn’t figure out what this golden lotus actually was. But
just from its outwards appearance, Chen Xi was able to determine that this thing was surely
a spirit plant that was a precious treasure of the heavens and the earth!

“Goldsoul Divine Lotus!” Ji Yu appeared out of thin air and cried out involuntarily when
he gazed at the lotus.

Howl!

The infant Pixiu in Ji Yu’s arms sniffed for a moment and its eyes lit up instantly, then it
struggled, wanting to pounce towards the lotus but was pressed down by Ji Yu’s large
hands, causing the little fellow to bare his fangs and howl unceasingly.

“Senior, what’s a Goldsoul Divine Lotus?”

Chen Xi hurriedly stood before the lotus as he spoke, then gazed at the infant Pixiu
vigilantly. As soon as he recalled that all the treasures within the Treasure Hall were eaten
clean by this little fellow, he felt extremely pained.

“This lotus is a goldsoul treasure that was born from the five elements of nature and
innately possesses a pure goldsoul body. Even in the primordial era, it’s an extremely rare
treasure. This Goldsoul Divine Lotus was born from the metal element of nature and based
on its condition, it’s obviously already in the phase of maturity.”

Ji Yu had a burning gaze, and he couldn’t help but reveal a slightly envious and astonished
expression as he said, “The Goldsoul Divine Lotus sprouts after 10 years, becomes a lotus
in 100 years, blooms in 1,000 years, and would only bear a lotus fruit after being nurtured
for 5,000 years. After that, it would grow larger by a circle every 1,000 years until it’s like
the size of an infant’s fist. If it isn’t picked in time, it would fall to the ground and
transform back into spirit energy, vanishing within the five elements of the three
dimensions.”

Chen Xi lowered his head and measured it for a moment. The Goldsoul Divine Lotus
before him just happened to be the size of an infant’s fist, and it was precisely just about to
reach maturity!

“This is too much of a coincidence, right?” Chen Xi was astonished to the point he didn’t
know how to express himself, he felt the joyous feeling of something falling into his lap.

Ji Yu felt it was unbelievable as well, but when he saw the Pixiu in his arms, he
experienced a flash of enlightenment in his heart and said with a weird expression, “When
fortune has arrived, it can’t be stopped.”

“Who said it can’t be stopped?” It was at this moment that an icy voice suddenly sounded
out, then the dense mist far away behind Chen Xi abruptly started roiling, and four or five
figures could be vaguely seen to be flashing over here explosively.

“Shit! All my attention was actually caught by a single Goldsoul Divine Lotus, it really
shouldn’t have happened. I’ll leave the rest to you. I can only tell you that if the Goldsoul
Divine Lotus is seized away by another, then you’ll regret it for your entire lifetime.” Ji Yu
was stunned, then shook his head as he instructed Chen Xi before vanishing into thin air.

“Chen Xi, long time no see.” Within the roiling mist, a tall figure appeared before Chen Xi.
He had sword shaped eyebrows and starry eyes, with shoulder length long hair, and he
looked at Chen Xi with a gaze filled with boundless hatred.

Li Huai!

Chen Xi was startled, he never imagined that he would encounter this fellow here, but he
still heaved a sigh of relief inwardly when he found out he was facing an opponent he’d
already defeated before.
Three young men with respectful expressions followed behind Li Huai, they all had large
foreheads and cold lights within their eyes, but when Chen Xi saw them, he instantly
determined that these three people hadn’t advanced to the Violet Palace Realm and at most
had a cultivation at the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm.

“This is the Goldsoul Divine Lotus you spoke of? It’s extraordinary as expected.” Li Huai’s
gaze descended onto the Goldsoul Divine Lotus on the spirit farmland, and he emitted and
undisguisable burning desire and greed.

Looks like this fellow heard everything between me and Senior Ji Yu earlier. I originally
intended to let him live for a few more days, but for the sake of not letting this secret leak
out, I can only kill him this time… Chen Xi swiftly contemplated within his mind, and he’d
made his decision in an instant and killing intent immediately appeared within his eyes.

“Want to kill me? Haha! My cultivation isn’t restrained anymore within this sword
immortal’s abode. Do you have any chance of winning when facing me at the Violet Palace
Realm?”

Li Huai roared with laughter, and his voice revealed boundless resentment. Obviously, he’d
recalled the scene of being defeated by Chen Xi at Bloodbath City. “Once I kill you, I’ll
dedicate this Goldsoul Divine Lotus to Miss Su and using this as an opportunity, she’ll
surely agree to the marriage with me!”

“You’re about to die and you still have so much crap to spout.” Chen Xi shook his head,
and he gazed straight at Li Huai as billowing battle intent surged out from his chest.
Chapter 56 - Kill!

“Li Song, Li Kuo, Li Hong, you three just watch from the side. I’ll smash this kid into a
pulp today!” Li Huai waved his hand as he instructed the three nearby Li Clan disciples,
then he held his Pine Ripple Sword in his hand, and his gaze was like lightning as his
formidable aura locked onto Chen Xi.

Chen Xi didn’t continue speaking, the tip of his foot tapped the ground as his entire body
was like an arrow that left the bow, flashing explosively towards Li Huai.

Hiss! Hiss!

As he dashed, his body actually tore numerous long waves of air in the surrounding air.
These waves of air surged out and crackled like surging river water with extremely
shocking force.

After using the Netherezim Baleful Qi at the foundation of the formation in the bottom of
the chasm to attain the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm in body refinement, Chen
Xi’s body was like a treasured sword that was tempered within a furnace for millions of
times. His vital energy and blood shot into the sky like a rainbow, the bones and tendons
within his body were refined like jade, and there wasn’t a shred of impurities within his
entire body. When he dashed out, his body was light like a swallow and combined with the
Heavenly Dragon’s Eight Steps, his speed was at least 20% faster than before!

Bang!

The sky shook as a fist that was covered in terrifying force smashed straight at Li Huai’s
face, it was exactly the same move that he used when fighting Li Huai outside Bloodbath
City.

“This move again… Hmph! You’re underestimating me, Li Huai, too much!” As he
shouted, thick True Essence abruptly surged out from Li Huai’s body, and his body lifted
off the ground with a swish to fly up mid-air.

Bang!

His fist missed and the powerful True Essence blasted onto the spirit farmland like a plow
as it smashed out numerous deep trenches, and dirt flew out into the surroundings.

“Haha! Violet Palace Realm cultivators can fly in the air, idiot!” Li Huai laughed
arrogantly in mid-air.

Whereas seizing the opportunity when Li Huai was talking, Chen Xi didn’t stop and instead
charged towards the three nearby young men.
Bang! Bang! Bang!

One of the Li Clan disciples was caught off guard, his skull was directly shattered by a
single punch, and he died on the spot. The other two of them crossed their arms in defense,
but they were still unable to flee from this calamity, it was as if a 150,000kg sledgehammer
had fiercely smashed onto their arms, causing their bones to be shattered into bits. The
terrifying force that surged out from Chen Xi’s fist shook the two of them to the point they
fiercely spat out a mouthful of blood before flying out over 30m and were unable to get up
anymore.

The school of fiendgod body refinement had always been a terrifying existence that
annihilated all qi refiners of the same cultivation. Now that Chen Xi’s physique was refined
to the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm, it was completely capable of being on par
against an ordinary graded Magic Treasure, allowing him to possess a strength that was
mighty and bones and tendons that were formidable. By just relying on the strength of his
body, it was more than sufficient for him to slaughter these three Li Clan disciples that
were only at the Congenital Realm.

“You’re courting death!” Li Huai’s face suddenly went grim, he was in mid-air, yet the
Pine Ripple Sword in his hand transformed into an azure light that fiercely slashed at Chen
Xi, and it was precisely the ability to control Magic Treasures that only Violet Palace
Realm cultivators were able to master.

Whoosh!

The Pine Ripple Sword was extremely swift like lightning, and the terrifying force of the
sword even tore through the air, shaking the surrounding spirit energy to disperse with a
bang.

Chen Xi was shocked inwardly, unable to dodge in time, he swung out his fist to smash the
flying sword that shot violently towards him. Unexpectedly, the flying sword suddenly
changed directions mid-air and swept past an arc as it swiftly glided past his ribs.

Psst!

His clothes tore open and a faint bruise appeared on his body that was hard like cast iron,
but even then, Chen Xi still couldn’t help from sweating out cold sweat from shock.

“How could it be possible!? This Pine Ripple Sword is a low-grade yellow-rank Magic
Treasure, how could it be unable to injure this fellow?” In mid-air, Li Huai was stunned,
and his expression became unsightly.

“Come the fuck down!” Even though he wasn’t injured, but it still infuriated Chen Xi. His
vast True Essence poured into his arms and they instantly smashed out a myriad of times,
and transparent fists that seemed to be material shot out from his hands!
These transparent fists seemed like they were carved from crystal and were glittering and
translucent. They were condensed and compressed from True Essence then smashed out by
Chen Xi’s third level of the Grand Collapsing Fist — collapsing rocks into powder, and
were like a meteor rain that whistled in the sky, emitting extremely shocking sounds and
might.

“Hmph! It’s only True Essence discharge, it’s unable to do anything to me!” Li Huai
sneered. A myriad of sharp sword lights suddenly slashed out from the Pine Ripple Sword
that coiled around his body, slashing towards those fists that whistled towards him like the
rain.

Bang!

A transparent fist directly smashed a sword light into pieces, and its momentum didn’t
reduce in the slightest as it continued to smash towards Li Huai.

“Not good! How could I have forgotten that this kid’s fist technique has already attained
the unity-stage, and is able to draw support from the energy of the heaven and earth to
increase its might explosively…?”

Li Huai was stunned, then suddenly recalled the scene of when he was battle Chen Xi
outside Bloodbath City, and his face instantly went gloomy!

Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang! Bang!

Countless transparent fists were like a large fisherman’s net as it shattered all the myriad of
sword lights that stood in its way to encircle and siege Li Huai who stood in the center!

“Dammit!”

One wrong move caused him to lose the initiative of the battle. Li Huai could only grit his
teeth and circulate the True Essence within his entire body, then grab ahold of his Pine
Ripple Sword to swing out sword shadows that were like billowing spindrifts as they
flashed out, forming a watertight defense around his surroundings. At the same time, he
instead flashed explosively towards the distance, attempting to rush out of the encirclement
of the transparent fists that came from all around him.

Bang!

A transparent fist smashed on the sword shadow around Li Huai’s body, the terrifying True
Essence contained within it surged out, and it directly smashed Li Huai flying.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Before Li Huai could even catch his breath, another few more fists exploded in around his
body, once again blasting him out over 30m away, and his body was staggering and almost
dropped to the ground.

At this moment, Li Huai’s hair was disheveled and hung down loosely, and his clothes
were in rags. His exposed skin was completely charred, and his appearance was in an
extremely sorry state. He didn’t dare continue trying to flaunt his superiority any longer and
leaped to the ground, only then did he escape the encirclement of those transparent fists.

This… This is absolutely not real. This kid’s cultivation is only at the Congenital Realm,
and he’s even bare-handed. How could he possibly be so formidable?

Li Huai gazed at Chen Xi in disbelief. It was truly difficult for him to imagine that
everything from earlier was caused by this fellow that he’d always insulted as trash.

He’d always thought that he lost to Chen Xi outside of Bloodbath City because his
cultivation was restrained and it provided Chen Xi with an opportunity to exploit. However,
now, when he utilized the cultivation of the Violet Palace Realm, yet was still forced down
from mid-air by Chen Xi. This situation caused him to be utterly unable to accept this
reality!

Why is it like this?

Could it be that this kid is an expert that concealed himself, and has always been a wolf in
sheep’s clothing?

At the instant that Li Huai’s mind pondered swiftly, Chen Xi couldn’t help but once again
get a clear understand of his strength. Only now did he realize. Relying on my perfection-
stage of the Congenital Realm cultivation in both body refinement and qi refinement, and
my Grand Collapsing Fist that’s at the unity-stage, I’m completely able to battle a Violet
Palace Realm cultivator!

However, Li Huai has obviously only advanced to the Violet Palace Realm not long ago,
and his live combat experience is even inferior to me. That’s why I was able to seize the
initiative in the battle and force him to descend from the sky… It would seem that I’m only
able to battle some fellows who are at the initial-stage of the Violet Palace Realm and have
bad live combat experience.

As for those slightly formidable Violet Palace Realm cultivators, I still have to carefully
deal with them if I encounter them in the future.

After he thought all this through, Chen Xi didn’t hesitate anymore and launched an attack
once again, and his fists were like descended droplets of rain as they completely didn’t give
Li Huai any chance to fly up once again.

The situation started to become disadvantageous to Li Huai.

A portion of his will to fight was taken away by Chen Xi’s attacks earlier, and now that he
was devastated by Chen Xi from being forcefully suppressed to battle on the ground, he’d
completely fallen into a situation of passive defense.

However, it was also impossible for Chen Xi to finish Li Huai off in a short amount of
time, as this fellow swung his Pine Ripple Sword about to the point even a drop of water
couldn’t pass through, and as it defended the surroundings of his body, he was virtually like
a tortoise that had cowered within its shell.

Gurgle! Gurgle!

The muscles that glowed with a jade-like luster on his entire body expanded and popped
out, then fluctuated ceaselessly like a tide with an extremely rhythmic motion, and the vital
qi and blood in his body was as if lit ablaze, and emitted waves of thunderous roars.

The appearance of Li Huai while passively taking a beating was extremely similar to a
sparring dummy, and this caused Chen Xi to think of a good plan. He’d decided to use Li
Huai to test how formidable exactly was his body, and he didn’t utilize his True Essence
any longer and started to use the pure strength of his body.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

He’d already confirmed earlier that the Pine Ripple Sword in Li Huai’s hand wasn’t able to
injure his tendons and bones, so, Chen Xi didn’t have the slightest worries as he executed
his fist techniques now, and coupled with the combat expertise he’s honed from fighting
life and death battles, he was able to force his opponent to the point his opponent only had
the strength to ward off his blows and nothing more. This feeling was simply captivating
and addictive.

Li Huai completely didn’t notice that he’d already become the sparring dummy for Chen Xi
to test the strength of his body, but at this moment he was utterly unable to notice all this.

His mind had already completely fallen into an inexplicably great terror, and as he
continued to withstand Chen Xi who got even more courageous as the battle progresses, he
bitterly pondered on a way to flee.

Up to this point of the battle, his fighting spirit had already been completely depleted, and
he wasn’t willing to continue tangling with this freak, Chen Xi, any longer. Even to the
extent that he suspected that if it were to continue like this, he would be exhausted to death
by Chen Xi.

What should I do?

Should I lower my head and admit defeat to him?

It’s of no use. Even if I admit defeat, I’m afraid this fellow wouldn’t let me off. His
grandfather died in the hands of my Li Clan’s cultivators after all. This enmity is absolutely
irreconcilable, and he would absolutely not forgive me…

But, besides admitting defeat, what other method is able to allow me to survive?

Li Huai felt the True Essence that had reduced within his Dantian, and he seemed to see the
footsteps of the god of death silently approaching. For a moment, his heart burned with
anxiety, and an extremely short absent-mindedness appeared in his expression.

It was right at this moment that Chen Xi’s eyes lit up, he grabbed onto this chance that was
difficult to come by and took a step forward, then his right fist swung out like a whip,
passing through the cracks between the sword shadows before directly smashing onto Li
Huai’s chest with a bang.

Kacha! Kacha!

A wave of sounds of bones breaking that caused one’s scalp to go numb echoed out, and Li
Huai’s chest abruptly sunk to become a cavity. The terrifying strength that surged out from
the fist had instantly shattered the bones in his chest, and his internal organs were shattered
into countless pieces as well.

Pu!

Li Huai spat out a mouthful of dense and dark red blood, and his face instantly went white
as a sheet. He gazed at Chen Xi with a look that carried along a trace of shock, resentment,
frustrations… and was extremely complicated.

“I… never imagined… that a jinx like you… actually… actually had become so
formidable. It’s truly… ironic!” Li Huai spoke disjointedly, and as soon as he finished
speaking, his head turned sideways and he died on the spot.

“I originally intended to kill everyone in your Li Clan before your eyes. But now it seems
that I’ve let you off lightly.” Chen Xi muttered, then he picked up the Pine Ripple Sword
that was still held in Li Huai’s hand. He couldn’t care less to give this fellow’s corpse
another glance, and he turned around to walk towards the Goldsoul Divine Lotus.
Chapter 57 - Li Ming

Pine Mist City, Li Clan, Ancestral House.

Allegedly, the Ancestral House contained the most superb cultivation techniques that had
been passed down by the Li Clan’s ancestors until the current day and the various spirit
pills used for cultivation.

At the same time, the Ancestral House contained various training sessions that were
extremely brutal and were able to torture one to the point they were covered in bruises, and
living was worse off than death.

However, in the heart of all the Li Clan disciples, the Ancestral House was still the sacred
grounds of cultivation that they desired the most in their hearts. So long as they were able
to become stronger, what was suffering little hardships and enduring a little pain?

Unfortunately, the Ancestral House was the vital center of the Li Clan. Besides direct
disciples or disciples with extremely outstanding natural talent, others had no hope of
taking a step into the Ancestral House within their lifetimes.

Today, the door of the Ancestral House that had been tightly closed for many months,
slowly opened.

Step! Step! Step!

A wave of steady and forceful footsteps resounded out on the deep and quiet walkway of
the Ancestral House, and after a short moment, a young man walked out from the darkness.
It was shockingly Li Ming, the youngest son of the Li Clan patriarch Li Yizhen!

However, he was a completely different person when compared to before, his clothes were
slovenly, his hair was disheveled hair and he had an unkempt appearance, seeming to have
not bathed for a few months. His white skin was rough and dark, and his originally puffy
and frivolous triangular eyes had already become gloomy and sharp like a hawk now,
shining brightly.

“So it turns out that the feeling of possessing strength is actually so wonderful.”

He clenched his fist. His palms that used to be white were now completely filled with
callouses and the bones in his hand had become big and thick. When he clenched his fist
tightly, a vicious and fierce aura abruptly surged out from his body.

“Second Young Master, the Patriarch has asked to see you.” Iron Hand, who was enveloped
in a ball of dark shadows walked out from the darkness, and his sharp and gloomy voice
was like a venomous snake flicking its tongue while concealed in the shadows.
“Uncle Iron Hand, please lead the way,” Li Ming said respectfully. At this moment, when
he possessed strength, he finally understood how terrifying the cultivation of Iron Hand,
who was willing to be a shadow and follow by his father’s side all the time, was.

Li Clan Main Hall.

Li Yizhen sat up straight in the center position and on both of his sides were the numerous
elders of the Li Clan. Everyone’s gazes descended onto Li Ming in unison when they saw
him enter.

Li Ming was able to feel the shock and disbelief within these gazes, and this feeling was
extremely wonderful. It felt extremely enjoyable to him, yet his expression was composed
and his pace was unhurried. After cupping his hands in greetings, he silently sat on the seat
that belonged to him.

“Three months of time, attaining the perfection-stage of the Congenital Realm from the
Postnatal Realm, not bad, not bad.”

The Grand Elder, Li Fengtu, spoke first, his expression revealed happiness as he said with a
smile, “Now, Li Huai has already followed Miss Su to enter the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain for a month, he’s probably already found the sword immortal’s abode at this
moment. It couldn’t be any better if he’s able to obtain some of the good luck within.
Yizhen, you’ve brought two good sons into the world!”

“Grand Elder, you’re too kind.” Li Yizhen was extremely happy from obtaining the praise
of the Grand Elder.

Li Fengtu smiled, then his expression went serious as he said in a serious tone, “I’ve
actually gathered everyone here today for an extremely simple matter, that is to decide on
the person that will inherit our Li Clan. Although Li Ming isn’t bad, he’s slightly young
after all, and there’s quite a gap with Li Huai. I suggest Li Huai inherits the position of our
Li Clan’s Patriarch, what does everyone think?”

“Grand Elder your discerning eyes are like torches in the dark, Li Huai is indeed not bad as
his natural talent and mentality are outstanding amongst his peers as well.”

“Yes, I agree to Li Huai inheriting the position of Patriarch.”

“Haha! Of course, it should be Li Huai. After he returns from the Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain this time, he might have already captured Miss Su’s heart and helped to bring
about the connection between our Li Clan and the Su Clan through marriage. In this way,
wouldn’t the status of our Li Clan rise as well?”

All the elders agreed to Li Fengtu’s opinion.

Li Ming who quietly sat at the side felt extreme discomfort in his heart when he saw this.

If it was in the past, he wouldn’t fuss about all this at all. Because he was too weak and was
utterly unable to compare to Li Huai who was like a favored genius of the gods.

But it was different now, he already possessed formidable strength. Although he was still
inferior to Li Huai, who could be sure that he wouldn’t surpass Li Huai in the future?

“Since everyone has agreed on Li Huai, then… Huh?” Grand Elder Li Fengtu hadn’t
finished speaking when the door of the Main Hall was suddenly pushed open rudely.

Manager Wu had an expression of terror as he dashed in with a stagger, then knelt on the
ground before shouting out loudly. “Patriarch, Elders, it’s a disaster! Young Master Li
Huai’s Soul Vitality Lamp… has extinguished!”

Kacha!

The teacup in Li Yizhen’s hand dropped onto the ground and shattered into a pile of
powder.

Li Huai is actually dead?

Everyone’s face went extremely gloomy, and for a time, the atmosphere within the Main
Hall became extremely dreary.

They’d convened a clan meeting this time to confirm Li Huai’s status as the next Patriarch,
however, the results weren’t even announced yet when they were notified of the news of Li
Huai’s death. Who could accept this sort of sudden change?

“Could it be that an accident occurred within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain?”

“How could it be possible? Li Huai was following along with Miss Su. Allegedly, there are
still a few more disciples from the great powers of Dragon Lake City with them. How could
he encounter a disaster?”

“God damn it! If I find out who killed my son, Huai, I’ll surely annihilate his entire clan!”

After a short period of silence, enraged cries blasted out to resound within the Main Hall.

“Shut up!”

Li Fengtu shouted out explosively, and when he saw everyone had shut their mouths, he
said coldly, “Everyone knows that the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain trials are only for
a month’s time. After one month, all the cultivators within it would be teleported out, and
only the people that have entered the sword immortal’s abode will be able to continue
staying with the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain.”

“The next time the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain opens is three years from now, so,
even if we’re filled with even more resentment, we won’t be able to see the culprit for
another three years. Then, is there any meaning in discussing this matter now?”

“Grand Elder, what you mean is?” Li Yizhen forcefully endured the sorrow from losing his
son, and his voice was low and hoarse.

“The pressing matter at the moment is to choose the person who’ll inherit the position of
Patriarch in the clan. Since Li Huai is gone, then it’ll be changed to be assumed by Li
Ming.” Li Fengtu took a deep breath and said word for word. “Everyone, losing a clan
member is nothing. What’s important is that all of us can’t only be drowned in grief, and
aggrieve those near to us and gladden the enemy!”

“Yes!” Everyone’s faces went solemn as they agreed in unison.

Li Ming was in slight disbelief as he gazed at everything that happened before his eyes,
I’ve so easily become the one to inherit the place of Patriarch?

He was far from being sad or happy about the death of Li Huai because he’d lived beneath
Li Huai’s shadow since he was young, so the relationship between the two brothers wasn’t
that good.

But when he thought of how he’d become the one to inherit the place of Patriarch because
of Li Huai’s death, he felt as if he’d eaten a fly in his heart. He felt awfully disgusted.

This isn’t what I wanted!

Li Ming roared in his heart, I already possess strength and I’m not inferior to Li Huai. The
day will come when I prove it to all of you!

“Li Ming!”

The Grand Elder’s voice sounded out by his ears, and Li Ming awoke from his chaotic
thoughts, then he stood up and cupped his hands. “Grand Elder.”

“Don’t think that just because you’ve been chosen to inherit the place of the Patriarch that
you’ll surely be able to obtain it. You have to use your strength to prove yourself for all the
members of the clan to see. Only by obtaining the acknowledgment of everyone would you
be able to become a qualified Patriarch!” The Grand Elder said in a deep voice.

Li Ming’s gaze swept past his father and the numerous elders, and lofty sentiments surged
within his head as he said clearly. “Father, Elders, I will surely live up to your
expectations!”
As he spoke up to here, Li Ming pondered for a short moment, then gritted his teeth and
continued. “Brother is gone. Then from today onwards, I’ve decided to replace him in not
only the place of Patriarch, but I also want to get married to Miss Su of the Dragon Lake
City’s Su Clan!”

“Oh, what do you plan to do?” A trace of a curious light flashed within Li Fengtu’s eyes.

“Since the Su Clan has agreed that so long as we humiliate Chen Xi’s family to death, they
would betroth Miss Su to my Li Clan. I’ll start from here.”

Li Ming replied without hesitation. “Of course, Li Huai has always been conducting this
plan. But please be at ease Grand Elder, I’ll be even crueler and better than my brother. So
long as they’re related to Chen Xi’s family, then I won’t let any of them off!”

“Do you have a target?” Li Fengtu continued to question.

“Yes! The boss of the Pine Mist City’s Zhang General Store, all the talisman crafting
apprentices under him, and all the neighbors within an area of 300m from Chen Xi’s
house.”

A trace of madness flashed within Li Ming’s eyes. “I want them all dead, annihilated! I
want to tell everyone in Pine Mist City that they died because of Chen Xi! I want everyone
to know that even if they have the slightest bit of relationship with Chen Xi, then they’re
bound to face death and destruction!”

What an atrocious and extreme disposition!

The numerous elders present gasped inwardly, and their gazes when they looked at Li Ming
couldn’t help but carry along a trace of worry. Is such temper suitable to inherit the place
of Patriarch?

“Good!”

Grand Elder Li Fengtu was silent for a long time, yet he unexpectedly clapped and praised.
“Losers are always in the wrong, and only the strong are respected. So long as it’s
beneficial to my Li Clan, it’s still worth it even if your methods are a hundred times more
atrocious!”

Li Ming was anxious and fearful after he finished speaking of his plan. At this moment, he
couldn’t help but be extremely happy from suddenly obtaining the acknowledgement of the
Grand Elder, and he cupped his hands and said, “Please don’t worry Grand Elder, it isn’t
merely for the sake of the marriage with Su Jiao, it’s also for the sake of our Li Clan’s
strengthening and expansion in the future. I’ll surely deal with Chen Xi until the Su Clan is
satisfied!”
As he spoke, a trace of regret couldn’t help but arise in Li Ming’s heart. Unfortunately, that
kid, Chen Hao, has already left Pine Mist City. Otherwise, I’d let him see his brother, Chen
Xi, slowly get tortured and humiliated by me until death. Only that would be enjoyable…

“According to my knowledge, Chen Xi has followed Du Qingxi to enter the sword

immortal’s abode, and he probably won’t appear within the next three years. This period of
time is sufficient to do anything. Li Ming, do you understand what I mean?” Li Fengtu
asked.

Li Ming nodded.

Li Fengtu said in a deep voice, “Go! If you’re able to take care of this matter beautifully
and make the Su Clan satisfied. Then with my status as Grand Elder, I’ll guarantee that the
Patriarch of our Li Clan will surely be you!”

“Yes!”

Li Ming took a deep breath, then turned around and left. He knew that this was a test to
him, and at the same time, it was the best opportunity for him to change his destiny.

Author’s Note: This chapter is transitional plot and required foreshadowing. It might have
been slightly dull, but the future chapters will only be even more exciting!
Chapter 58 - Goldsoul Lotus Fruit

Hundred Herb Hall

“It isn’t time yet, wait a while. It ought to take another incense stick’s worth of time more
before this Goldsoul Lotus Fruit will mature and drop. You have to use your True Essence
and absorb it into your Dantian before it touches the ground.”

After annihilating Li Huai, Ji Yu had appeared once again and he pointed at the Goldsoul
Divine Lotus as he spoke confidently. “You’ll be able to use this Goldsoul Lotus Fruit once
you’ve cultivated your soul to the stage of Divine Sense.

Divine Sense?

According to Chen Xi’s knowledge, not mentioning those heaven defying geniuses,
ordinary Violet Palace Realm cultivators possessed Perception Force, Golden Hall Realm
cultivators possessed Spiritual Perception, Golden Core Realm cultivators possessed Divine
Perception, and only Rebirth Realm cultivators possessed Divine Sense.

Because of possessing the Fuxi Divine Status within his sea of consciousness, Chen Xi was
naturally not within the ordinary ranks. Although he was only at the perfection-stage of the
Congenital Realm, his soul had already condensed Perception Force, and it was completely
capable of matching ordinary Violet Palace Realm cultivators!

Chen Xi said curiously, “What miraculous effect does the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit actually
possess? Could it be that it’s a treasure that benefits the strength of the soul?”

Ji Yu instead avoided the question and didn’t answer and only said, “It’s of no use if you
know now. It’s better if you keep your mind on cultivating. Advancing the strength of your
soul is what you need to do now.”

Chen Xi was helpless, I know too little, who can I resent for that?

“Oh, you can’t waste this spirit spring as well. Seize this opportunity to gather some spirit
liquid. According to my estimation, at the instant the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit matures, it will
completely absorb all the nearby spirit energy. At that time, you’ll be unable to obtain
anything.” Ji Yu glanced at the spirit spring and reminded.

At this moment, Chen Xi suddenly realized that having the spirit of the Manor that has
existed for a million years by his side was truly a joyful thing.

If Ji Yu wasn’t here, he might have pulled out the Goldsoul Divine Lotus by the roots and
taken it away by now, and it would be completely impossible for him to know that when
the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit matured, it would actually completely absorb all the nearby spirit
energy…
Chen Xi took out the octagonal containment bottle from his storage ring and started to
squat beside the spirit spring to gather the spirit liquid.

The insides of this octagonal containment bottle was divided into eight enormous spaces,
one of them contained the nearly 250kg of liquid condensed from Netherezim Baleful Qi.
Another seven empty space still remained within, and in total it was sufficient to contain
more than 500,000 kg of liquids.

Unfortunately, I only have the time of one incense stick. Once this Goldsoul Lotus Fruit
matures, this spirit spring will dry up with it. If I knew this earlier, I would’ve started
gathering the spirit liquid since the beginning… Chen Xi said regretfully in his heart.
According to the speed the spirit liquid poured out from the spirit spring, it would be quite
good if he was able to gather 5,000 kg of spirit liquid before the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit
matured.

“Infant Pixiu, Goldsoul Divine Lotus… Although this immortal, Nether Enlightenment, is
only a fallen immortal, his ability is extremely shocking. He was actually able to find such
divine items. In his time, he was probably someone with great karmic luck.”

Ji Yu looked at the Goldsoul Divine Lotus and seemed to speak from feelings as he sighed
with emotion. “Unfortunately, it’s all benefitted you now. In terms of the strength of karmic
luck, then this immortal, Nether Enlightenment, is still inferior to you.”

Chen Xi was stunned, then shook his head and said, “How could that be possible?
Everyone calls me Jinx in Pine Mist City.”

“A man cannot be without arrogance, there’s no need to look down on yourself.”

Ji Yu said in disdain, “The people who said you’re a jinx are a group of idiots. If you’re a
jinx, then would you be able to obtain the True Body Brand of my Master? Would you be
able to walk out of the Star Secret Realm? In the future, so long as you unceasingly work
hard in your cultivations, then so long as no accidents happen, you’re completely able to
pass through all the trials in the Heavenpeak of Trials and inherit the mantle of my Master
to become an unequaled expert in your time.”

As he spoke up to here, Ji Yu stared fixedly at Chen Xi and asked, “Now, do you still think
you’re a jinx?”

“No.” Chen Xi shook his head decisively. What Ji Yu said was indeed the truth. If he still
denied it, then he would be acting.

Ji Yu said in praise, “Of course not. Moreover, you possess an infant Pixiu by your side
now, you karmic luck will only become better.”
Chen Xi was praised to the point he blushed slightly, and he was just intending to change
the topic when he suddenly thought of something. Half an hour had already passed, and the
chaotic battle between Chai Letian and Su Jiao had probably already finished.

Chen Xi’s heart couldn’t help but constrict at the instant this thought emerged in his mind.
At this moment, he didn’t think about how to sneak attack Chai Letian anymore. So long as
Chai Letian didn’t die, he could go kill Chai Letian at any time, but the time the Goldsoul
Lotus Fruit drops to the ground was only an instant. Comparatively speaking, the Goldsoul
Lotus Fruit before him was still more important.

“Get ready, it’s about to mature!”

Ji Yu’s voice abruptly exploded out by his ears. Chen Xi didn’t dare let his mind wander
anymore and he poured his True Essence into his palms as he stared fixedly at the Goldsoul
Divine Lotus without batting an eyelid.

Under the cover of the strands and threads of pistils and stamens, the infant fist-sized
golden fruit seemed to be breathing, and circles of dense golden ripples appeared on its
surface.

Splash! Splash!

A pillar of water that was like a waterfall suddenly shot out from within the nearby spirit
spring and surged straight towards the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit. All the spirit energy within the
Hundred Herb Hall was like sharks that had smelt blood and madly surged towards the
Goldsoul Lotus Fruit.

Whereas the golden fruit was like a bottomless pit, accepting all the spirit energy that was
nearby. As the amount of spirit energy it had absorbed increased, the golden light on its
surface grew denser and more eye piercing, seeming to be like a small sun.

Bang! Bang! Bang!

Seeming to have activated something, the entire Hundred herb Hall abruptly started to sway
violently, and layers of transparent waves rippled out in the air surrounding the Goldsoul
Divine Lotus and the air seemed as if it would shatter in the next moment.

At the same time, an inexplicable terrifying oppressive force invaded the hall from every
direction, and Chen Xi who was beside the Goldsoul Divine Lotus felt it even more
strongly. It felt as if his throat was choked, causing him to feel suffocated and nearly be
unable to control the True Essence that was restless within his body!

What a terrifying strange phenomenon. I heard that as long as a spirit treasure emerged
into the world, it would surely be accompanied by various strange phenomenon. Although I
don’t know what miraculous effect this Goldsoul Divine Lotus possesses, it’s obviously an
extremely mystical existence!
Even though the boundless oppressive force suppressed him to the point it was difficult to
breathe, but Chen Xi’s eyes grew brighter and brighter, and his nerves were strained to the
limit.

Roar!

A clear and melodious sound that was like the roar of a dragon sounded out, from a low
sound that was inaudible, it gradually became loud and resonant, and in the end, it
transformed into a billowing wave of music that vibrated in every corner of the Hundred
Herb Hall.

Right at this moment, the stem, branches, and petals of Goldsoul Divine Lotus burnt into
nothingness at a noticeable speed, and the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit covered within the pistil
and stamens lightly shook, then it fell!

Whoosh!

Practically the instant the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit dropped, the True Essence that Chen Xi had
kept ready in his palm since a long time ago transformed into a ray of light that was like a
waterfall, and it instantly enveloped the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit before being swallowed by
Chen Xi into his Dantian. His actions were so swift that is was almost completely in an
instant, as if he’d practiced it countless times earlier.

Success!

Chen Xi was slightly unable to believe it, but when he felt the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit that
quietly floated within his Dantian, he finally believed that he’d indeed succeeded.

At this moment, within his Dantian, nine clouds that were condensed from True Essence
formed a ladder that went upwards layer by layer. Whereas at the bottommost area of his
Dantian, the Goldsoul Lotus Fruit quietly floated there. The surface of the lotus fruit
ceaselessly emitted strands and threads of golden light, and the entire scene of it within his
Dantian seemed extremely harmonious, without any abnormalities.

This also allowed Chen Xi to be much more at ease.

Thump! Thump! Thump!

The Hundred Herb Hall swayed more furiously by the moment, and piece after piece of
enormous rocks that were an entire 300m long collapsed from above. It seemed as if spider
webs had formed on the surrounding walls as they fell off and shattered, causing ash and
dust to billow in the air, and countless deep trenches that were continuous and had no end
had split open on the ground.

“It’s as expected. The Goldsoul Divine Lotus was the point the spirit energy within this
entire hall gathered, and at the same time, it maintained the balance in the entire hall. At
this moment, the Goldsoul Divine Lotus has withered away and the spirit energy has
completely dried up as well. So, the entire hall has lost its support and will surely collapse.”

Ji Yu swept his gaze at the surroundings then said swiftly, “Leave! Quickly!”

At the same time that Ji Yu spoke, Chen Xi had already perceived a hint of trouble. At this
moment, he didn’t dare hesitate and picked up the octagonal containment bottle on the floor
before violently dashing out of the hall.

Bang!

At the instant he exited the hall, the Hundred Herb Hall behind Chen Xi that covered an
area of 500km collapsed with a bang. For a moment, enormous rocks flew into the air and
dust soared into the sky, the stream of air that was emitted from the collapse was like a
whistling hurricane, and it scraped Chen Xi’s face to the point it hurt.

“Chen Xi!” A voice that was chilly like ice suddenly sounded out.

Chen Xi looked over and saw to his surprise that Chai Letian’s group, including Du Qingxi,
Duanmu Ze, and Song Lin, stood 300m in the distance. The only people that were missing
from the group were the pair of twins, Du Quan and Du Kui, of Windsoar Institution.

Moreover, exhaustion that was difficult to disguise filled the space between their brows,
and their clothes were stained with patches of blood. It was a wonder if the blood was their
own or their enemies.

When he saw this scene, Chen Xi understood that the chaotic battle within the Book
Reserve Hall had already ended. If he wasn’t wrong, Du Kui and Du Quan would have
surely lost their lives in the chaotic battle.

However, Chen Xi didn’t pay any attention to all this, as the fact that Du Qingxi, Duanmu
Ze, and Song Lin were still alive caused his mood to be much more cheerful.

“It’s good that you’re fine.” At this moment, Du Qingxi was looking over here with a
complicated gaze that seemed furious, disappointed, and so on and so forth.

Chen Xi couldn’t help but be stunned. Is she silently blaming me?

Duanmu Ze was unable to refrain himself in the end, and he said harshly, “Chen Xi, why
did you do that to us? To think that I took you to be a brother, yet I never expected that
you’d be so cold and heartless!”

The nearby Song Lin shook his head as well, yet didn’t say anything.

I’m cold and heartless?

A wisp of rage surged out from the bottom of Chen Xi’s heart, and he pointed at Chai
Letian as he asked, “Since you took me to be a brother, then why didn’t you stand up for
me when he threw me down the chasm that day? Not only that, you’re still following by his
side all this time. Let me ask you, what right do you have to say this?”

Duanmu Ze’s expression froze and was speechless.

Whereas when Du Qingxi and Song Lin heard what Chen Xi said, their expression became
unnatural as well.

“I know that there’s a Nether Transformation Realm ancestor behind this Chai fellow, and
you don’t dare offend him due to consideration for your clans. I can understand all this.”

“But, who will understand me? Could it be that just because my identity is inferior to
everyone else, you don’t have to care about my feelings at all?

“Besides that, I only spoke a single sentence and was utterly unsure if it would be able to
cause a chaotic battle, and the reason I did so was extremely simple as well; it was for the
sake of seizing the opportunity to kill Chai Letian. You call me cold and heartless just
because of this?”

At this moment, Chen Xi seemed unusually agitated and was virtually a different person
compared to his usually reserved self.

But, this also showed one thing. No matter if Chen Xi admitted it or not, in his heart, he’d
already taken Du Qingxi’s group of three as his friends.

He was insulted as a jinx since a young age, and practically no one of the same age took
him to be a friend. Du Qingxi’s group was the first group of friends he’d obtained in his 16
years of life. Even though they were only ordinary friends and weren’t to the extent of
being able to bare open their hearts to each other, he still cherished this piece of friendship
extremely.

It was precisely because of this that Chen Xi would become so agitated.

Du Qingxi’s group of three were silent and speechless as what Chen Xi said caused them to
be unable to arouse the desire to provide any explanation. This was the truth and they were
unable to deny it.
Chapter 59 - Taking Every Possibility Into Account

Chen Xi and Duanmu Ze didn’t hide anything as they spoke and used an almost
straightforward way to vent the dissatisfaction within their hearts. Thus, this attitude of
facing each other straightforwardly seemed rare and precious.

But, when their conversation entered the ears of the others, it was instead as if they’d heard
an extremely great joke.

On one side was a disciple from an impoverished family who’d been poverty-stricken and
in very poor circumstances since a young age, and was even the jinx of Pine Mist City that
was well known in every household. On the other side was the favored genius from one of
the six great clans of Dragon Lake City who possessed a lofty and respected status.

Regardless of status or identity, and even cultivation, there was an insurmountable gap
between these two people. How could they become friends?

In the cultivation world where status was ranked by endowment, if this wasn’t a joke, then
what was?

In the eyes of Chai Letian and the others, the current Chen Xi was undoubtedly talking
nonsense like a pitiable idiot.

“He’s truly like an idiot. Fortunately, my father tore apart our marriage contract that
year…” It was at this moment that Su Jiao’s voice slowly sounded out from the other side.

Chen Xi’s mood was agitated and he actually only noticed at this moment that Su Jiao’s
group stood 300m in the distance on the other side.

Similar to Chai Letian’s group, Su Jiao’s group all had clothes tainted with blood and
exhausted expressions. Moreover, only 9 people remained within their group that originally
consisted of 13 people. Their losses were actually more disastrous than Chai Letian’s
group.

Chen Xi felt a chilly sensation in his heart, and the flames of rage in his chest instantly
subsided. His gaze scanned the surroundings but he didn’t notice any traces of the people
from Phoenixcloud Sect.

Could it be… they all died in the chaotic battle?

Chen Xi was slightly unable to believe it, but when he pondered about it for a moment, this
was also the inference that was the closest to the truth.

After all, the Phoenixcloud Sect’s group was formed from disciples of small powers in the
southern territory. Although they had Violet Palace Realm cultivations, they were
obviously unable to compare to Su Jiao and Chai Letian’s groups that were from the
ancient and great powers of Dragon Lake City.

“Miss Su, the culprit that caused our groups to suffer disastrous losses is standing before us.
Are you going to do it, or should I?”

Chai Letian said in an unhurried manner, “The chaotic battle in the Book Reserve Hall was
caused by this kid. Now the complete collapse of the Hundred Herb Hall seems to be
caused by this kid as well. Not only might there be numerous jade slips stored in his
possession, moreover, there would also be the treasures of nature he’d obtained from the
Hundred Herb Hall. If you don’t make a move, then I’ll strike first and reap the benefits
from him.”

“Hmph! As if you’d be so kind?” Su Jiao grunted coldly, yet she thought in her heart. The
treasures within the Treasure Hall wouldn’t have been cleaned out by this fellow as well,
right? If it’s like this, then I really can’t allow Chai Letian to seize the initiative.

Chai Letian roared with laughter. “Haha! A straightforward person doesn’t resort to beating
around the bush, I have conditions of course.”

“I’m all ears.” Su Jiao frowned.

Chai Letian said without hesitation, “My conditions are the things in this kid’s possession,
we’ll split it fifty-fifty.”

It could be said that this condition couldn’t be better. After they’d experienced the chaotic
battle from before, they had an even deeper understanding of each other’s strengths after
all. If they were to get into battle because of the things in Chen Xi’s possession, then the
price they paid would be too high, and it was extremely not worthwhile.

Whereas at this moment, Chai Letian had obviously understood this, so he put forward this
suggestion.

However, Su Jiao still felt slightly uneasy. According to her knowledge, Chai Letian’s
possessive desires were extremely strong and wasn’t someone so easy to deal with. It was
rather unbelievable that he was able to put forward such a suggestion.

“Alright, I agree.” After thinking it over, again and again, Su Jiao still decided to give it a
try.

It was at this moment that Chen Xi who was watching on coldly all long spoke out
abruptly. “If I’m not wrong, then after the chaotic battle earlier, all of you are surely injured
as well. Even if all of you aren’t injured, your physical strength and True Essence would
surely have been almost completely exhausted.”
Minute changes appeared on the expressions of everyone behind Chai Letian and Su Jiao
when they heard this.

Chen Xi noticed this and was even surer of the deduction in his heart, and he spoke once
again. “I killed Li Huai in the Hundred Herb Hall earlier. If all of you think that you’re able
to defeat me in your current conditions, then feel free to come at me!”

Killed Li Huai?

Su Jiao’s expression suddenly sank. When they entered the Book Reserve Hall, Li Huai had
silently left according to her wishes and headed to the Hundred Herb Hall. So he wasn’t
swept into the chaotic battle earlier, and his strength was in peak condition and would only
surpass her current condition.

If it was really like Chen Xi had said, and Li Huai had died miserably at his hands. Then
wouldn’t it mean that it would be impossible for everyone present to be a match for Chen
Xi?

Clang!

Chen Xi casually tossed Li Huai’s Pine Ripple Sword on the floor, yet didn’t explain any
further. Because the truth was always more convincing than words.

As expected, when she saw the Pine Ripple Sword on the floor, Su Jiao was unable to
maintain her composure any longer and cried out involuntarily. “How can this be possible?
After entering the sword immortal’s abode, Li Huai’s strength wasn’t restricted any longer.
With his Violet Palace Realm cultivation, how could he have been killed by Chen Xi?”

It’s actually true!

In the distance, Chai Letian’s pupils constricted and various thoughts arose within his heart.

With my current strength, I’m completely capable of taking Chen Xi down if I go all out,
but doing this is too dangerous. Not to mention Su Jiao’s group are still glaring covetously
from nearby. What should I do if they seize the opportunity to attack my mercilessly while
I’m fighting Chen Xi?

Grouping up and attacking him is impossible as well. If we force Chen Xi into a corner, he
would surely cause a certain amount of injury to my group while struggling desperately.
Whereas Su Jiao’s group were completely capable of waiting to reap the benefits.

Most worrying of all, Du Qingxi’s group of three obviously have an extraordinary

relationship with Chen Xi. If they were to jump out and fight together with Chen Xi now,
wouldn’t I only be left with three people? Then we would become the weakest group and in
a precarious situation…
Numerous thoughts flashed past Chai Letian’s mind, and Chai Letian’s expression had
already become incomparably gloomy. Up to this point, Chai Letian had to admit that Chen
Xi was an extremely formidable opponent. The resoluteness and viciousness of Chen Xi’s
mind, Chen Xi’s grasp of the situation that was meticulous in every possible way, and Chen
Xi’s careful scheming that took every conceivable possibility into account, caused Chai
Letian to be extremely fearful of Chen Xi.

If this kid wasn’t taken care off as soon as possible, then he will surely become a great
calamity in the future!

Without any reason or rhyme, an extremely preposterous thought arose within Chai
Letian’s heart.

This won’t do!

I can’t act rashly at this moment, otherwise, I’ll surely fall into a situation that is
unfavorable to me.

Chai Letian had to helplessly accept reality. Because, besides looking on and doing
nothing, he’d already lost all ability to deal with Chen Xi!

Su Jiao’s feelings were almost similar to Chai Letian, and the reason she was afraid was no
different from Chai Letian. Even to the extent that she understood Chen Xi’s strength even
better than Chai Letian.

She'd once seen the battle between Chen Xi and Li Huai outside Bloodbath City with her
own two eyes. Despite Chen Xi only possessing a cultivation at the Congenital Realm, his
cultivation in the Martial Dao wasn’t inferior to a Violet Palace Realm cultivation, and
even surpassed a Violet Palace Realm cultivator. After all, within their current group of
people, only Cang Bin was able to cultivate a martial technique to the extent of the unity-
stage, and even she was unable to accomplish this.

Whereas not only did Chen Xi’s fist technique attain the unity-stage, even his sword
technique faintly possessed traces of breaking through to the unity-stage. A freak like this
couldn’t be measured with common sense, and Chen Xi killing Li Huai was sufficient to
explain everything.

Du Qingxi’s group of three were naturally able to notice the subtle changes that were
occurring in the atmosphere, and enormous changes occurred in the gazes they shot at Chen
Xi.

Astonishment, shock, bewilderment… They seemed as if it was the first time they’d known
Chen Xi.

Because, it was impossible for them to imagine even if they wracked their brains, just
relying on a string of words and a sword, Chen Xi was able to turn the entire situation
around. This level of ability had already exceeded their imagination, and only producing
clouds with a turn of the hand and producing rain with another could describe this.

Within this silent atmosphere, Chen Xi lifted his feet and walked towards the distance. His
expression was as normal, without the slightest awareness of being under tight
encirclement, and he walked in an extremely firm and balanced manner.

“Brother Chai, why don’t we first kill this fellow together?”

Su Jiao’s voice was as if forced out from the cracks in her teeth, and the gaze she looked at
Chen Xi almost spouted fire. Too arrogant, could it be that this fellow thinks I can’t do
anything to him?

When he heard her, Chai Letian looked at Du Qingxi’s group of three and didn’t say
anymore. But the meaning in his gaze couldn’t be any clearer.

Su Jiao was stunned, then came to an understanding. At this moment, if those three people
were to jump out and help Chen Xi, it would truly be a cause for a headache.

What should I do?

Could it be that I have to look on helplessly as this fellow swaggers off?

Su Jiao’s conflicted mood had already reached an extreme state.

In the Book Reserve Hall, the chaotic battle of three groups was caused because of a single
sentence from Chen Xi. At this moment, it was again what he said and the sword he tossed
on the floor that caused the two groups of people that wished for nothing more than to kill
him and rob him, dare not act rashly…

Exactly what sort of freak is this fellow!?

A trace of complicated feelings that were beyond expression couldn’t help but arise within
the hearts of everyone.

————

Authors Note: This chapter was really mind wracking, and I’m not going to play with
things like scheming and strategy in the future. A pure and nice person like me is really
unable to mess around with things like that…
Chapter 60 - 10,000 Year Wait

Hu!

Chen Xi heaved a long sigh of relief when he confirmed that he’d broken away from the
range everyone’s Perception Force could lock onto him, and only now did he realize that
the clothes on his body had already become completely drenched with cold sweat.

Chen Xi could be said to have been caught in a hopeless situation when he was surrounded
by Chai Letian and Su Jiao’s group earlier, and it was pure luck that he was able to get
away safely.

There were roughly two reasons for this.

The first — After experiencing the tragic chaotic battle within the Book Reserve Hall, Chai
Letian and Su Jiao’s groups were already in a state of exhaustion, whereas the fact that
Chen Xi was able to easily kill Li Huai who was at the Violet Palace Realm had
undoubtedly caused them to be extremely fearful.

The second — Chai Letian’s group and Su Jiao’s groups were both suspicious and fearful
of each other, and they were worried that the other group would reap the final reward once
they made a move against Chen Xi.

Of course, there were also various other factors, but comparatively speaking, if it wasn’t for
Chen Xi acutely perceiving the two points above and taking action on them, it would be
absolutely impossible for him to leave so easily.

Even to the extent that once a minute mistake was to appear in this process, it was possible
to cause Chen Xi to fall into eternal doom.

Chen Xi didn’t ponder over it anymore, nor did he hesitate in the slightest as he started to
dash off violently.

Along with the passage of time, the strength of Chai Letian and Su Jiao’s groups would
surely recover gradually. If he was unable to find a safe place to conceal himself during this
period of time, then everything would go back to square one.

The Southern Barbaric Nether Domain was isolated from the rest of the world and they had
to wait for it to open three years from now before they would be able to leave.

It could be said that if Chen Xi wanted to avoid the pursuit of Chai Letian and the others for
these three years, then he must find a concealed location that no one was able to discover.

However, Chen Xi felt helpless, as not only was he unable to find a place to conceal
himself, he even had no way to leave this sword immortal’s abode.
When we entered the sword immortal’s abode, we relied on the Nether Enlightenment
Tokens to use the Tri-Factor Teleportation Platform and be teleported in. But what about
leaving?

There was no path from the sword immortal’s abode that led to the outside world!

Chen Xi had already looked through the map of the entire sword immortal’s abode in the
main hall’s core area earlier, and he was extremely sure of this.

If the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain was said to be a small space that was isolated from
the rest of the world, then the sword immortal’s abode was an even smaller space that was
established within the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain. Besides the Tri-Factor
Teleportation Formation used to enter here, there wasn’t a single other path of access.

Troubles truly do not come singly!

Chen Xi pondered and pondered, and his footsteps had unconsciously dashed towards the
main hall.

When he was teleported in, he’d appeared within the main hall, and he subconsciously took
this place to be his lair.

Not long after, Chen Xi once again returned to the main hall.

As he gazed at the jade bed and the work table within the simple room, Chen Xi felt much
more at ease, and then he sat cross-legged on the bed and started to rest with closed eyes.

Not even half a day had passed since entering the sword immortal’s abode, but to Chen Xi,
every moment was extremely breathtaking.

Seeking treasures, stirring up a chaotic battle, killing Li Huai, collecting the Goldsoul
Divine Lotus, getting away from the tight encirclement… Incident after incident, each more
dangerous than before. It was like dancing on the edge of a blade and one wrong move
would cause the whole game to be lost. Although Chen Xi’s physique had already been
tempered to be extremely formidable, he still felt the exertion too great to endure.

Gradually…

The strands of cool and refreshing cold qi that was emitted from the jade bed caused Chen
Xi’s mind to become tranquil and devoid of any distracting thoughts.

Within his sea of consciousness, the Fuxi Divine Statue that emitted an ancient and vast
aura was still glowing with a myriad of misty fine lights, and Chen Xi’s soul sat cross-
legged before the divine status with a serene expression.
His strained nerves calmed down and his mind and physical strength recovered bit by bit.
He completely didn’t notice that a black figure that was like mist had suddenly appeared
within the jade bed under his butt.

Whoosh!

Chen Xi’s body froze and he felt as if there was something else within his body, and it was
surging towards his sea of consciousness at an extremely swift pace.

What’s going on?

Chen Xi quickly opened his eyes, however, before he could wrap his head around the
matter, he felt a loud ‘Om’ echo out in his mind, then a sharp and hoarse voice resounded
out with a rumble.

“Huehuehue… I’ve waited for 10,000 years, and I, Nether Enlightenment, have finally
awaited for a superb body! The heavens didn’t disappoint me after all!”

Along with the voice, a black figure swiftly appeared within Chen Xi’s sea of
consciousness. The black figure’s face was gaunt and pale with sunken eye sockets, yet his
eyes were long and thin like the edge of a sword, and they were extremely bright.

“Hahaha! So long as I possess this body, I’ll be able to cultivate once again. With the infant
Pixiu and Goldsoul Divine Lotus in my possession, why should I worry about being unable
to overcome the damned ninth level of the heavenly tribulation?”

Within his sea of consciousness, Chen Xi swiftly stood up and gazed at the black clothed
person that seemed as if he’d appeared out of thin air, then shouted loudly, “Nether
Enlightenment?”

“Exactly! Kid, I presume you coveted the treasures stored within my abode, so you relied
on the Nether Enlightenment Token to enter, right? Hahaha! Too bad! Your soul is about to
be devoured by me, and your body will become mine!”

As expected, the figure that was like black mist was shockingly the soul of the immortal,
Nether Enlightenment.

Chen Xi’s expression remained unfazed as he asked coldly, “All this was a trap you’d
devised beforehand?”

“Of course! Did you think I left this immortal estate behind and sent my Nether
Enlightenment Tokens into the outside world for the sake of allowing all of you to divide
up my treasures?”

Nether Enlightenment gazed at Chen Xi with a gaze of pity, and a wisp of burning greed
surged out from his eyes that were long and thin like a blade. “Kid, obediently allow me to
devour your soul. Your body being able to be used by me is an extremely great fortune you
can’t obtain in your entire lifetime.”

“Hmph! Even if you devour my soul, your cultivation would only be at the Congenital
Realm. How would you be able to leave this place? Numerous enemies that wish for
nothing more than to kill me are concealed outside.” Chen Xi said loudly.

“Kid, put away your little tricks. Don’t you just want to know how to leave this immortal
estate?”

Nether Enlightenment glanced at Chen Xi in disdain, then he sneered. “I can tell you since
you’re about to die, but…”

As he spoke up to here, killing intent flashed within Nether Enlightenment’s eyes, then he
abruptly flashed out explosively, transforming into a ball of billowing black mist as he
enveloped towards Chen Xi.

“But, I’ll only tell you after I devour your soul! Hahaha!” As he gazed at Chen Xi who was
obviously frightened by him to the point he dared not move, Nether Enlightenments
complacent roars of laughter echoed out from within the billowing black mist.

“Since you’re unwilling to tell me, then die!” When the black mist Nether Enlightenment
had transformed to was about to envelop Chen Xi, Chen Xi who stared blankly on the spot
without moving suddenly shot out a strand of a cold light that was dazzling and bright from
his eyes.

Om!

A cold sound of chanting that seemed to have come from ancient times resounded within
his sea of consciousness, then an enormous figure of a thin old man appeared out of thin air
within his sea of consciousness. The old man was barefooted and wore linen clothes, with
and sat cross-legged in the air just like that, seeming like a towering mountain that couldn’t
be worn away even after experiencing countless years of time. His gaze was deep and vast,
and myriads of divine lights enveloped his body. At the instant he appeared, he’d lit up
Chen Xi’s entire sea of consciousness.

Hiss! Hiss! Hiss!

The black mist that the immortal, Nether Enlightenment, transformed to melted like ice in
water at the instant it was enveloped by the myriad of fine lights from the Fuxi Divine
Statue, and he slowly withered away bit by bit at a speed that was noticeable by the eye.

“Ah! How could this be possible! It’s actually a True Body Brand left behind by an
almighty figure from the primordial era.” Nether Enlightenments voice revealed boundless
terror as he screamed miserably. “No!!”
In practically an instant, the black mist was burnt into nothingness within the myriad of fine
lights, and the voice of Nether Enlightenment before his death still lingered within Chen
Xi’s sea of consciousness.

Chen Xi started gasping for breath after he was sure that the immortal, Nether
Enlightenment, was completely dead.

Even though what he face earlier was merely a strand of Nether Enlightenment’s soul,
Chen Xi still felt boundless pressure. That was the gap in Realms, and it caused him to be
nearly unable to arouse the desire to resist.

“Fortunately, I possess the True Body Brand left behind by Senior Fuxi. I obviously made
the right gamble this time. If it wasn’t for this, I’m afraid it would be absolutely difficult for
me to escape this disaster.”

Chen Xi had a lingering fear in his heart as he thought about everything that had happened
earlier, and boundless gratitude arose in his heart as he gazed upon the ancient divine status
in his sea of consciousness that remained the same eternally.

Rumble!

It was at this moment that an enormous bang that was like muffled thunder from the highest
reaches of the heavens echoed out, and the entire main hall shook violently as if there was
an earthquake.

Could it be that this main hall is about to collapse like the Hundred Herb Hall?

Chen Xi hurriedly stood up and swiftly dashed out, however, to his astonishment,
regardless of where he went, the violent shaking like an earthquake remained.

Treasure Hall, Book Reserve Hall… All the buildings within the sword immortal’s abode
were like volcanos that were in deep sleep for a thousand years, and at this moment, they’d
awoken and erupted!

“What’s going on?”

“Flee quickly! This sword immortal’s abode is about to be destroyed!”

“Let’s go!”

At this moment, no matter was it Chai Letian’s group or Su Jiao’s group, their faces all
went pale. They didn’t dare hesitate any longer, swiftly flying back and forth between the
numerous buildings that were crashing down with a bang as they desperately fled for their
lives in panic.
Outside the sword immortal’s abode, the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain’s Dusty
Nightmare Area, Sanguinary Mountain, Crimsonflame Mountain Range… They were as if
being slapped wantonly by the hands of gods, and numerous enormous rifts that were
frightening had split open on the ground and spread throughout the entire Southern
Barbaric Nether Domain.

The baleful beasts were fleeing, they who didn’t possess a shred of intelligence were under
the influence of their instinct to live, and they fled disorderly in terror and panic. However,
no matter where they ran, in the end, they would be devoured by the enormous rifts in the
ground.

Kacha! Kacha!

The surrounding space seemed to be unable to endure this sort of pressure and shattered
into numerous pitch-black rifts. At the instant the bits and pieces of rocks and stone
dropped into the pitch-black rifts, they silently vanished.

At this moment, it was as if doomsday had arrived in the entire Southern Barbaric Nether
Domain. The ground quaked and space shattered as if everything would be completely
destroyed in the next moment!

“Eh!” Deep within the Southern Barbaric Mountain Range, a violet robed handsome young
man stood atop a cliff and he raised his eyes to gaze at the space where the Southern
Barbaric Nether Domain resided.

He had a tall figure and an unusually handsome face. His gaze was deep like a lake and two
balls of violet lightning seemed to be revolving within his pupils. The afterglow of the
setting sun that was like blood shone on his face and added on a strange and mysterious
aura to him.

“Interesting, the wasteland within the spatial tear is about to be destroyed?”

The gaze of the violet robed handsome young man seemed to be able to pass through all the
barriers in space and allow him to see some scenes that ordinary people were unable to see.

“Oh, there are actually people who haven’t come out? Hmm, I’ve killed too much these few
days, even though they’re only some animals, but the old man will surely scold me to death
if he finds out. Alright, I’ll just take it as doing some good deeds to accumulate some
virtue…”

The violet robed young man stroked his chin and pondered for a short moment, then he
stretched out his hand to grab towards the space that the Southern Barbaric Nether Domain
resided in.
 — End of Book One —