Demonic Cultivator(280-286)

Chapter 280: Too Ruthless, I Love It!

In the blink of an eye, three years had passed on Mystic Azure.

As it turned out, Northern Cold truly did not have the demonic beast meat that Chu Xuan needed.

During these three years, Myriad Souls Elder and Wan Wuying had both been diligent and loyal, bringing him numerous demonic beast meats brimming with powerful life force.

However, with just a glance, Chu Xuan could tell that none of them could compare to the Nether Crocodile. Since that was the case, they naturally could not meet his requirements, nor push his body refinement realm further.

Fortunately, thirty years had elapsed in the Soul Star.

The Ice Soul Formation had accumulated a hundred years' worth of energy, completely transforming the environment. Every ghost within the formation now carried an Ice Soul Crystal in their body. The higher the ghost's level, the larger the crystal.

With this, Chu Xuan's cultivation speed for the Mysterious Heavenly Ice Soul Scroll could accelerate once more.

"Luckily, I've been cultivating both Qi and body in tandem. When one path reaches a bottleneck, I switch to the other. In this way, my strength has steadily increased, unlike others who remain stuck at the same level for years, struggling to progress."

Looking at the entire basket of Ice Soul Crystals radiating a chilling aura before him, Chu Xuan nodded in satisfaction. He estimated that if he refined all the Ice Soul Crystals in front of him, in roughly twelve years, he could cultivate the Mysterious Heavenly Ice Soul Scroll to the fifth level.

His own cultivation realm would then reach the fifth level of Nascent Soul.

However, before sitting down to focus on cultivation, Chu Xuan decided to return to Mystic Azure to check on the recent developments in Northern Cold through the transmissions from Myriad Souls Elder and Wan Wuying.

But just as he was about to review their messages, Myriad Souls Elder arrived in person.

Myriad Souls Elder's face was brimming with joy. "Master, the Poison Gu Sect is no more. My Myriad Souls Sect and the Corpse Yin Sect have divided the treasures of the Poison Gu Sect. I've specially brought some to present to you."

Chu Xuan raised an eyebrow at this.

The Poison Gu Sect is gone? So quickly?

Myriad Souls Elder handed over a storage bag and began reporting the recent events one by one.

As expected, that Poison Gu Sect Nascent Soul ancestor, Guan Tong, had been far too greedy. He had long harbored ambitions to seize lands in the Central Continent. At first, when he took over one or two cities, the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace did not respond, which emboldened Guan Tong even further.

But when he made his move again, planning to swallow up five cities in one go—The Feather Transformation Heaven Palace finally reacted.

Two Nascent Soul mid-stage cultivators descended in a storm of thunderous might. Guan Tong revealed all his hidden cards, but he still failed to escape alive. His physical body was shattered, and his Nascent Soul was obliterated.

A dignified Nascent Soul cultivator perished just like that, his path of cultivation severed in an instant.

The Poison Gu Sect, like the Myriad Souls Sect, only had a single Nascent Soul cultivator. Unlike the Corpse Yin Sect, which still had Nascent Soul cultivators honing their skills on the outer battlefield, the Poison Gu Sect had no other such resources.

Thus, with Guan Tong's death, the Poison Gu Sect instantly became an empty shell. Its territory, cultivators, and treasures were swiftly taken over by the Corpse Yin Sect and the Myriad Souls Sect.

Myriad Souls Elder dared not delay. After acquiring the spoils, he immediately brought them to Chu Xuan, fearing he might be accused of hoarding treasures in secret.

Chu Xuan was very pleased with Myriad Souls Elder's behavior.

The Poison Gu Sect specialized in poison arts and the path of Gu insects. Its downfall and the outflow of its inheritance and treasures provided him with the perfect opportunity to enhance his poison techniques and Gu insect cultivation.

"Master, please examine everything carefully. I shall take my leave," Myriad Souls Elder said respectfully.

Chu Xuan nodded. "Go ahead."

He then returned to Blue Star and carefully examined the contents of the storage bag.

"A Corrupted Infant Incense, capable of harming Nascent Soul cultivators… A Corpse God Powder that controls the mind…"

"And this complementary Nascent Soul-level technique, White Jade Poison Repelling Art, which prevents accidental poisoning while deploying toxins."

"Too ruthless—I love it!" Chu Xuan nodded in satisfaction and then continued to review the items related to Gu insects.

"These Gu techniques are all mediocre; nothing particularly impressive. It seems even Guan Tong himself only cultivated Golden Core-level Gu techniques. However, this drop of Mountain Steel Worm's essence blood is truly a surprise."

Chu Xuan retrieved a piece of amber and scrutinized it closely. Encased within the amber was a droplet of grayish blood—the essence blood of a Mountain Steel Worm. The Mountain Steel Worm was one of the powerful descendants of the Gold-Devouring Blood Mother.

The Gold-Devouring Blood Mother, on the other hand, was a formidable ancient insect. It was said to have a body length of over a thousand zhang, with countless tendrils hanging from its form. These tendrils would scour the earth, devouring every trace of metal ore in their path until nothing was left behind.

The first Gu insect Chu Xuan cultivated, the Blood Steel Wire, was a distant descendant of the Gold-Devouring Blood Mother, several generations removed. Its inherited bloodline from the Gold-Devouring Blood Mother was diluted to the point of being nearly imperceptible.

Without the assistance of a powerful bloodline, it was nearly impossible for it to undergo atavistic transformations.

Previously, the Blood Steel Wire had ingested the essence blood of a powerful Gu insect, which elevated it to the second-rank Gu category, while also raising its potential.

Later, when Chu Xuan advanced to the Nascent Soul stage, both the Blood Steel Wire and the Blood Bee Queen, being his life-bound Gu insects, received another boost, reaching the late stage of the second transformation.

Now, if he could feed it this essence blood of the Mountain Steel Worm, the Blood Steel Wire would undoubtedly break through to the third-rank Gu category.

Moreover, its potential would be further enhanced, equivalent to the level of a Golden Core cultivator.

"Gangsi, come forth. This blood essence is yours," Chu Xuan commanded with a thought.

The skin on his palm split open, and Gangsi emerged, its gaze fixated on the amber with intense desire.

With a casual squeeze, Chu Xuan crushed the amber.

Gangsi lunged forward and swallowed the droplet of essence blood in an instant. It immediately retreated back into the Blood Insect Pouch.

Chu Xuan directed his spiritual sense inward and saw that Gangsi had begun forming a cocoon. Once the blood cocoon breaks, it will undergo an atavistic transformation into a Mountain Steel Worm, advancing firmly into the third-transformation Gu category.

"It's time for me to cultivate as well."

Chu Xuan sat cross-legged and began refining the Ice Soul Crystals to strengthen himself.

The Feather Transformation Heaven Palace had made a decisive move to discipline the Poison Gu Sect of Northern Cold. In the future, they would surely target the unruly sects in Western Land, Eastern Border, and Southern Wilderness.

For now, this period would likely be a rare time of peace. Perfect for quietly cultivating and amassing power.

...

Mystic Azure, Central Continent, Feather Transformation Heaven Palace.

Two figures departed from Feather Transformation Island under the cover of night, heading straight for Northern Cold.

One was a middle-aged cultivator—Wei Ji. The other was a beautiful woman with traces of age on her face.

Wei Ji showed no sign of lingering as he turned and continued on his way. The woman, however, paused in midair, standing on a cloud and casting a longing gaze back toward Feather Transformation Island, her eyes filled with sorrow and reluctance.

She murmured softly, "Elder Wei, if we leave now, it will be difficult for us to ever return."

Wei Ji replied coldly, "If we don't leave now, we will be imprisoned by Zhao Kai and his followers, or worse, assassinated. I've received word that Zhao Kai has already invited two Nascent Soul cultivators from Western Land and Southern Wilderness specifically to counter us. You can stay if you want, but I won't."

The woman smiled bitterly. Her name was Liu Ruoshui, one of the Nascent Soul cultivators of the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace. However, she was different from Zhao Kai and the others in the loyalist faction.

Zhao Kai was the chief disciple of the Spirit Feather True Master, personally groomed by the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace from a young age into a Nascent Soul cultivator.

But she and Wei Ji had both joined the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace only after achieving the Nascent Soul realm.

Liu Ruoshui hesitated and asked again, "Elder Wei, why are we heading to Northern Cold? The Eastern Border is still not unified. If we go there, we can at least preserve our lives."

Wei Ji sneered, "Preserve our lives? That's not enough! Have you forgotten how Zhao Kai and his lackeys humiliated us? All because they hold the power of the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace, all because they have the numbers on their side! I want to fight my way back. I want to kill Zhao Kai with my own hands!"

A trace of ruthless resolve flashed in his eyes. When Zhao Kai seized control of the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace, he carried out numerous actions to suppress and marginalize, the Nascent Soul cultivators who weren't part of his faction.

Chapter 281: Such is the Confidence Bestowed by Merit

Liu Ruoshui fell silent upon hearing these words.

Wei Ji sneered, "Northern Cold is now controlled by the demonic path, and it is inevitable that it will be infiltrated by the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect. It is likely that the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect has already begun making contact with the Northern Cold Demonic Sects. Although survival is possible on the Eastern Border, there is no way to return and conquer the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace. Only in Northern Cold can we reconnect with the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect and aid them in overtaking the Mystic Azure Realm."

Liu Ruoshui had a sudden realization. "I see, Elder Wei has indeed considered this more thoroughly than I have. Then, if the two of us go to Northern Cold, which sect shall we join? Has Elder Wei already decided?"

Wei Ji shook his head, "Join? No, once we control that artifact, we ourselves will become a force to be reckoned with. Others will come to us, not the other way around."

Liu Ruoshui looked bewildered.

Wei Ji massaged his forehead, "The Mystic Azure Realm's protective formation was laid down by the Reincarnation Divine Church, featuring a central core and sixty-four support points. The core is located in the Central Continent, and the support points are spread across various locations. Among these sixty-four supports, there are ten major and fifty-four minor points. Two of these major points are located in Northern Cold."

Liu Ruoshui pondered, "So, you mean to say that we need to take control of these two major points in Northern Cold?"

Wei Ji nodded, "Exactly. Once we control those two points, the people from Heaven Shaking Divine Sect will naturally seek us out to collaborate. Enough talk, let's hurry. Some things can be discussed once we arrive in Northern Cold."

The two utilized their evasion techniques to speed up their journey. Wherever they passed, only the howling wind could be heard, leaving no trace behind.

At the rise of the sun over the eastern mountains. Zhao Kai and the other Nascent Soul cultivators finally caught up to a high mountain.

"These two are truly cowardly, fleeing under cover of night!" the burly male cultivator frowned deeply.

"Hmph, merely cowards who flee without a fight," scoffed the voluptuous female cultivator.

Zhao Kai merely furrowed his brow slightly.

"I think they likely fled towards the Eastern Border. Senior brother, shall we pursue?" asked the burly male cultivator.

Zhao Kai waved his hand dismissively, "Forget it, chasing them is just a waste of time. They are determined to flee; we can't stop them. Let's head back. The battle in the Eastern Border hasn't been decided yet; we need to reinforce immediately and unify the Eastern Border."

The voluptuous female cultivator smiled, "Once the Eastern Border is unified, we will control most of the protective formation's supports. Then, all we need to do is concentrate our forces to attack Northern Cold. With the protective formation in place, the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect cannot possibly breach Mystic Azure."

Zhao Kai nodded slightly.

Formations are the ultimate means of turning weakness into strength. And he, Zhao Kai, was a formidable formation master.

Though only a Nascent Soul period formation master capable of activating just ten percent of the protective formation's power.

Even so, with him guarding the formation, it could at least withstand the combined assault of twenty Nascent Soul cultivators!

The protective formation was their greatest reliance.

Blue Star.

Chu Xuan watched intently as the fire bee egg before him was about to hatch. His expression was one of eager anticipation. Having derived the fire bee cultivation method from the fire ant cultivation technique, he had already conducted thirty-two experiments.

This was the thirty-third attempt. Each previous experiment had failed without exception. Either the fire bee would die within the egg before birth, develop deformities, or perish shortly after emerging.

However, this time, Chu Xuan felt a serendipitous assurance wash over him. "This time, it must succeed—such is the confidence bestowed upon me by virtue."

Crack!

A fissure abruptly appeared. Then came a second and a third. In the blink of an eye, the cracks spread across the shell of the fire bee egg like a spiderweb.

After a while, the little creature finally emerged from the egg. It shook its shriveled wing cases and antennae, which quickly dried out in the air. With a buzz, it took flight, skillfully soaring through the air and circling Chu Xuan several times.

Chu Xuan extended his palm. The little creature obediently landed in the center of his hand and even stretched out its little legs to brush off its own down. Chu Xuan then sliced off a piece of meat from a nether crocodile.

The little creature's eyes lit up, and it immediately pounced on it. Surprisingly, it spewed purplish-black flames from its mouth, quickly roasting the meat until it was golden and dripping with fat. Only then did it open its mandibles wide to feast, producing crisp, crunching sounds.

A look of joy spread across Chu Xuan's face. It was a success! The new fire bee was successfully nurtured! This fire bee exhaled Blood Evil Yin Fire from its mouth and exhibited impressive abilities in flying and feeding. Clearly, it was exceedingly healthy and robust!

"Moreover, it was born with the strength of a second-stage early-phase Gu insect. With some nurturing, it might even reach the third stage."

Chu Xuan was profoundly moved. A third-stage Gu could match a Golden Core cultivator. Given enough of them, fearless and relentless, they could even overwhelm a Nascent Soul cultivator. Especially since these little ones could produce and spew Blood Evil Yin Fire!

"This cave world truly is a splendid place," Chu Xuan mused. "Now that I have obtained the fire ant cultivation method, I can look forward to acquiring the thunder ant cultivation method and even the queen ant cultivation method in the future. Still, it's too slow. If only I could obtain the queen ant cultivation method in one go."

Amidst his elation, Chu Xuan felt a pang of regret. With the queen ant cultivation method, he could modify it to develop a queen bee cultivation method. The enhancement of a Blood Bee Queen would be far more significant than that of a mere fire bee!

However, considering the societal structure of the cave world, the tribal hierarchy was evidently rigid. A small tribe that produced a Gold Insect Master would inevitably be absorbed into a mid-sized tribe. And the strong figures from these mid-sized tribes would likely be taken by the larger tribes.

If that were the case, obtaining the queen ant cultivation method would necessitate access to a large tribe. How long would that take? Must he wait until Xiao Huo ascended to the ranks of a Platinum or Diamond Insect Master?

That would be far too long. He couldn't wait that long. Yet currently, he lacked any means to forcibly change hosts. He could only watch and wait.

...

Mystic Azure Star.

Upon returning, Chu Xuan immediately received a psychic message from Wan Hun.

"Two unfamiliar Nascent Soul cultivators have arrived in Northern Cold?"

"After they conquered two small sects, they entrenched themselves, making no further moves."

"Zheng Ji has already paid them a visit. The two sides got along well and conversed amicably, with no conflicts arising."

"Wan Hun is also preparing to visit, planning to bring several Golden Core cultivators along. He asked if I would join..."

Chu Xuan raised an eyebrow. At a time when the situation was tense, the sudden appearance of foreign Nascent Soul cultivators in Northern Cold was intriguing. He definitely needed to ascertain their capabilities.

After all, on this trip, he was merely an early-stage Golden Core cultivator. Even if the visitors were to start trouble, any hostility would be directed at Wan Hun, not him. As an outsider, he could observe more clearly and thoroughly.

Chapter 282: Neither Speaks a Single Truth

In Northern Cold, at Golden Thunder Mountain, once the stronghold of the Golden Thunder Sect of the Jin Kingdom, the landscape had changed dramatically. After the collapse of the Northern Cold Righteous Alliance, the Golden Thunder Sect had been swept away by the demonic sects.

As for the mortal realm of the Jin Kingdom, it had been annexed by the Wu Kingdom. Now, the mortal world of Northern Cold was under the rule of the Wu Kingdom, while the cultivation world was dominated by the Corpse Yin Sect and the Myriad Souls Sect.

However, the sudden appearance of two Nascent Soul cultivators in Northern Cold disrupted this clear structure. This time, Wan Hun brought Chu Xuan, Bai Jinkun, and Wan Wuying to Golden Thunder Mountain.

A figure had been waiting in the air above Golden Thunder Mountain. Seeing them, he saluted from afar, calling out, "Ji Wei greets fellow daoist Wan Hun."

Myriad Souls Elder laughed heartily, "I've heard from fellow daoist Zheng that fellow daoist Ji Wei is a sight to behold—truly, seeing is believing."

The man chuckled lightly, "You flatter me, let us speak inside. Fellow daoist Zheng also mentioned your expertise in the art of ghost cultivation, a subject I find quite intriguing. I must seek your advice on another day."

Wan Hun's expression remained unchanged, "That would be most welcome."

Chu Xuan watched the two and smirked internally. In just a few sentences, they had already engaged in a verbal probe.

"This man's skill in disguise is quite good, half as good as mine," thought Chu Xuan. His gaze casually swept over Ji Wei. He had seen through Ji Wei's disguise and recognized his true identity. It was Wei Ji, a Nascent Soul cultivator from the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace.

"How has Wei Ji come to Northern Cold?" Chu Xuan wondered. "And could the other Nascent Soul cultivator also be from the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace?" Chu Xuan's mind was abuzz with thoughts, but he revealed nothing.

...

Atop Golden Thunder Mountain, within the grand hall, Wei Ji and Wan Hun sat facing each other. Chu Xuan, Bai Jinkun, and Wan Wuying sat below them. Wei Ji clapped his hands, and a wooden puppet immediately came forward to serve tea.

Wan Hun exclaimed, "Fellow daoist Ji's puppetry is truly remarkable. I've seen others' puppets that move awkwardly, but your puppet moves as if it were alive, showing no sign of inconvenience."

Wei Ji smiled, "Naturally, for it contains the soul of a cultivator."

Wan Hun was startled, then burst into laughter, "Excellent! Fellow daoist Ji is truly a kindred spirit."

Wei Ji merely smiled lightly. The two conversed for a long time. During the conversation, Wan Hun introduced his three Golden Core disciples to Wei Ji. Wei Ji's gaze swept over Chu Xuan and the others but noticed nothing amiss, paying them little mind.

After a while, Myriad Souls Elder suddenly asked, "From whence do you hail, fellow daoist Ji? What brings you to Northern Cold?"

Wei Ji sighed deeply, "Who would choose to come to a land of strangers if they had other options? I am but a mere first-level Nascent Soul cultivator, and my coming to Northern Cold was out of sheer necessity. I implore fellow daoists Wan and Zheng not to ostracize me..."

Then he spun a convoluted tale. Essentially, he claimed to have fled from the Eastern Border due to betrayal by his sect mates and had chosen Golden Thunder Mountain as his refuge due to its favorable location. His story was so tortuous and heart-wrenching that it seemed designed to pull at the heartstrings.

After listening, Wan Hun sighed deeply, "Your senior brother is truly despicable! I, too, have endured such tragedies in the past." He then recounted his own tumultuous and tear-jerking story.

Chu Xuan, Bai Jinkun, and Wan Wuying struggled to stay awake through the exchange. All being centuries-old foxes, they found these ghost stories tedious.

Much later, Wan Hun asked, "Would you be willing to join our Northern Cold Demonic Sect, fellow daoist Ji?"

Wei Ji shook his head, "Absolutely not. I carry a deep-seated vendetta and am bound to be hunted by enemies. How could I possibly involve your sect in my troubles?"

Wan Hun nodded, then suddenly asked, "Do you know the fellow daoist Shui who has taken over Flying Thunder Valley?"

Wei Ji frowned, "Fellow daoist Shui? I do not know. Since arriving in Northern Cold, I have stayed here at Golden Thunder Mountain. My visitors have only been fellow daoist Zheng and you, fellow daoist Wan. I know nothing of the outside world."

Wan Hun studied his eyes and expression intently but could detect nothing unusual, so he did not press further.

Soon after, Wan Hun led Chu Xuan and the others away. Wei Ji, accompanied by two wooden puppets, saw them off. "Farewell until next time, fellow daoist Wan!" he called out cheerfully.

Only after Wan Hun and his party had disappeared did Wei Ji's smile slowly fade. "This Wan Hun appears to be at the fourth layer of Nascent Soul but is likely only at the second due to severe injuries that have never fully healed," he mused. "As for Zheng Ji, though he presents as the third layer, he is actually at the fourth!"

Wei Ji sneered, "I must find an opportunity to lure them out together and control them with a soul-restraining spell. Then, Northern Cold will be completely under my control, providing me with more leverage in dealings with the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect."

After leaving Golden Thunder Mountain, Wan Hun led Chu Xuan and the others to Flying Thunder Valley, where they met a beautiful woman named Shui Ruoliu. She told them a complicated story about coming from the Western Land after being expelled from her sect, with no intentions of competing for supremacy.

She simply wished to live and cultivate peacefully in her small corner of Flying Thunder Valley. Wan Hun repeated the questions he had asked at Wei Ji's, but he gained no useful information from the beautiful woman either.

...

On the return journey to the Yin Soul Mountain Range, Wan Hun stood at the forefront, his brow furrowed in deep thought. Wan Wuying rested with closed eyes. Unable to contain his curiosity, Bai Jinkun asked, "Master, have you discerned anything?"

Wan Hun shook his head, "I can't see through them; not a single word they said was truthful."

Bai Jinkun was taken aback, "Then why did you exchange stories with them?"

Wan Hun scoffed, "Speak human words to humans, ghost words to ghosts; isn't that a necessary tactic for us demon cultivators? Kun'er, you still have much to learn."

Bai Jinkun gave a wry smile and fell silent.

"Master, have you noticed anything?"

Wan Hun secretly transmitted his voice to Chu Xuan, ensuring Bai Jinkun and Wan Wuying couldn't hear.

Chu Xuan pondered for a moment before replying, "Both of their strengths are formidable, not merely at the first layer of the Nascent Soul stage as they appear. You must be cautious when dealing with them."

Wan Hun was shocked. He hadn't noticed their concealed strength. Fortunately, Chu Xuan's warning might save him from a disaster in the future. "Thank you, Master," Wan Hun replied respectfully.

"Think nothing of it. Let's return to the Yin Soul Mountain Range; no need to dwell on this," Chu Xuan replied casually.

...

At Black Devil Peak, Chu Xuan continued his cultivation, waiting. He was waiting for Wei Ji and the others to make their move. Sure enough, less than a month later, Wan Hun sent him a message.

"Master, Ji Wei, and Shui Ruoliu just met and started fighting immediately. Ji Wei even severed one of Shui Ruoliu's arms! It turns out these two were mortal enemies from the past. Had Zheng Ji not intervened, they might have fought to the death, once again destabilizing Northern Cold's situation. Zheng Ji and I have decided to invite them to the Myriad Souls Sect and mediate their conflict under the guise of reconciliation, planning to control their minds while they are off guard. What are your thoughts, Master?"

Chapter 283: Do Not Rashly Commit Slaughter!

Chu Xuan couldn't help but chuckle after hearing Wan Hun's message. It seemed likely that these two were in cahoots, and their sudden bout of life-and-death combat was clearly staged.

Wan Hun and Zheng Ji couldn't see through this, which was not surprising to Chu Xuan. Only someone with his high proficiency in disguise techniques could discern that the so-called Ji Wei and Shui Ruoliu were using false identities. Beneath their disguises were their true faces.

Wan Hun and Zheng Ji's thinking was straightforward. These two unfamiliar Nascent Soul cultivators were difficult to grasp and control, so they decided to directly manipulate their minds. This would ensure real stability.

"Wei Ji and his accomplice are clearly putting on a show with a significant plot in mind… They probably won't come to the Myriad Souls Sect…"

Chu Xuan pondered for a moment before sending a message back to Wan Hun, "When the time comes, both you and Zheng Ji should bring along your respective sect's Golden Core cultivators. I will go with you."

"Understood."

...

A few days later, Wan Hun relayed new information. Ji Wei and Shui Ruoliu were blinded by rage and would not heed any advice. The two had fought from the eastern edge of Northern Cold to the west, accumulating numerous injuries, yet they showed no signs of wanting to cease their battle.

Zheng Ji and Wan Hun, feeling helpless, decided to intervene directly.

Chu Xuan laughed upon hearing this. As he had guessed. Moments later, Chu Xuan, Bai Jinkun, and Wan Wuying boarded Wan Hun's flying magic treasure and departed from the Yin Soul Mountain Range.

Several hours later, they hovered outside Flying Thunder Valley. Zheng Ji and his Golden Core disciples were already there, at a loss for what to do.

Peering into the valley, Chu Xuan saw two distinctly different types of spiritual qi clashing continuously. However, the water spiritual qi was consistently suppressed by the metal spiritual qi, indicating that Wei Ji was dominating the female cultivator in their battle.

Wan Hun and Zheng Ji exchanged glances, instantly understanding each other's thoughts. Wei Ji and Shui Ruoliu had been fighting for a long time and must be running low on spiritual qi and riddled with injuries. Now was the perfect opportunity to exploit their weakness and forcefully take control of their minds!

Zheng Ji cleared his throat, "Fellow daoist Ji, leave some leeway; we may meet again in the future! There's room to talk things out, stop for a moment!"

As Wei Ji's resentful roar echoed through Flying Thunder Valley, Wan Hun loudly called out, "Indeed, fellow daoist Ji, even mortal enemies can sit down and discuss matters! Besides, you might have mistaken her identity; I see nothing in fellow daoist Shui that resembles the heinous villain you describe!"

A harrowing cry of desperation then followed from Shui Ruoliu. "I've never done such a thing, fellow daoist Ji must be mistaken! Fellow daoists, save me!"

Wan Hun and Zheng Ji continued their half-hearted shouts without entering the valley. It was better to wait a bit longer. Once both parties were depleted of their spiritual qi, it would be a good time to intervene.

Suddenly, another scream resonated from the valley. A figure plummeted from the sky and crashed heavily onto the ground. Shui Ruoliu immediately wailed in agony.

"Don't kill me! Don't kill me! I really didn't kill your family! Fellow daoists, save me! Quick!"

Wan Hun and Zheng Ji exchanged a glance and then dashed into Flying Thunder Valley, knowing the time was ripe. Chu Xuan and the other Golden Core cultivators followed closely, rushing into the valley and blocking the entrances and exits.

Inside, the valley was a scene of devastation, with ruins and signs of fierce combat everywhere. At the center, Shui Ruoliu lay in a pool of blood, now missing another arm. Ji Wei, covered in blood, violently drew his sword to behead her.

Chu Xuan observed the surrounding chaos with a slight, almost imperceptible smile on his lips.

Zheng Ji urgently yelled, "Fellow daoist Ji, spare a life! Do not recklessly commit slaughter!"

Wan Hun also shouted, "What fellow daoist Zheng said is right! It's never too late to confirm whether she truly is your mortal enemy before you strike!"

Wei Ji roared skyward, his spiritual qi surging wildly. He furiously swallowed a pill and glared at them both. "I've said it—anyone who tries to stop me from killing her is my enemy! Stay back!"

With that, he fiercely brought his sword down. Zheng Ji and Wan Hun reacted instantly, their spells flying through the air to knock the sword from Wei Ji's grasp.

Zheng Ji swiftly moved to restrain Wei Ji, while Wan Hun rushed to Shui Ruoliu's side, aiming to support the armless woman and seize control of her mind in her vulnerable state.

Wei Ji's eyes bulged with rage. "Zheng Ji! You really dare to stop me?"

He furiously slapped his storage bag, and five wooden puppets charged straight at Zheng Ji.

Zheng Ji, realizing that Wei Ji was making a desperate last stand, calmly brought out his Corpse Tower. Five corpse puppets swept out to entangle with Wei Ji's five wooden puppets, binding them in a fierce skirmish.

Meanwhile, he approached Wei Ji, speaking soothingly, "Fellow daoist Ji, we're all here for your benefit. Calm your spirit. Just restrain her for now, and once we verify that she truly is your mortal enemy, we'll help you deal with her, alright?"

Wei Ji hesitated, suspicion flickering across his face, "Really? You're not trying to help her kill me?"

Zheng Ji pleaded earnestly, "We've only just met Shui Ruoliu; why would we help her against you? Fellow daoist Ji, why would you think so poorly of us?" He sighed, his frustration evident as if trying to do good was being misconstrued as malicious intent.

A look of guilt crossed Wei Ji's face. "I was blinded by rage, my apologies..."

Zheng Ji shook his head, moving closer, "No harm done. Anyone whose family has been destroyed and encounters their enemy would understandably be overwhelmed with emotion. I've been through similar experiences and can empathize."

As he drew nearer, his right hand covertly clutched a handful of poison powder, ready to use it when the moment was right.

"Enough," Wei Ji suddenly declared.

Zheng Ji paused, "What's enough?"

"I mean you're close enough," Wei Ji grinned.

In the next instant, a long-accumulated surge of sword qi roared to life. The relentless, piercing sword qi impaled Zheng Ji!

Zheng Ji's eyes widened as he hastily activated his defensive spells and magical treasures. He even summoned a Corpse King to shield himself, but it was too late. The opponent had been charging up for too long.

In a blink, he was riddled with holes like a sponge, blood pooling around him. His once-prized Corpse King was now sliced into countless fragments.

"You..." Zheng Ji staggered, his gaze filled with disbelief as he looked at Wei Ji.

Wei Ji gave a slight smile as his Nascent Soul Stage Four aura exploded forth, overwhelming Zheng Ji, who struggled to breathe.

Wei Ji spoke softly, "Zheng Ji, I don't want to kill you. If you submit, I can spare your life."

Zheng Ji turned pale.

Meanwhile, a cry of horror came from Wan Hun nearby. The armless female cultivator in his arms suddenly regrew her limbs. He had intended to control her mind, but her spirit proved far stronger than he had anticipated. The technique to control minds backfired on him!

Chapter 284: Old Sly Fox

Wei Ji's eerie laugh broke the tense silence. "Don't bother looking; he's too preoccupied to help you."

Zheng Ji managed a bitter smile. "You two... had planned this all along, hadn't you?"

He couldn't believe it. They had been fighting for so long, and it was all an act—a trap set for him and Wan Hun. The tragic scenes within Flying Thunder Valley probably were nothing more than illusions.

Wei Ji remained silent, his smile wide but noncommittal.

At this moment, the Golden Core cultivators brought by Zheng Ji and Wan Hun heard the commotion and hurried towards the valley. Upon seeing the situation unfold, they were stunned, completely unprepared for such a turn of events.

The Golden Core cultivators hesitated, looking at each other, unsure of what to do next. They were just low-level cultivators; how could they possibly intervene in a battle between Nascent Soul cultivators?

Seeing Zheng Ji's reluctance to speak, Wei Ji scoffed, "You didn't actually expect those Golden Core cultivators to save you, did you? Mere low-level cultivators, as if they could turn the tide."

Zheng Ji naturally had no such expectations. He was about to respond when he noticed a faint chill rising from the ground. He blinked but concealed his surprise well, masking his reaction.

Suddenly, Wan Hun's voice boomed, "Master, save me!"

Zheng Ji, Wei Ji, and Liu Ruoshui were all taken aback. Master? You old sly fox, still playing so crafty at your age?

While the three were momentarily distracted, a massive column of frost erupted suddenly from beneath Wei Ji. His pupils shrank, and without hesitation, he summoned a giant sword to block it.

Boom!

A terrifying explosion echoed as the Ice God Pillar slammed into Wei Ji, sending him flying back a great distance. Before he could touch the ground, the pillar exploded into countless ice shards, pelting Wei Ji with bone-chilling cold.

Wei Ji hastily attempted to block with his giant sword again. However, the magic treasure had already been cracked by the initial impact of the Ice God Pillar. It could no longer withstand the relentless barrage of ice shards.

Before even half of the shards had struck, the sword shattered with a crack, scattering into numerous metal fragments. The remaining shards swept past, striking at Wei Ji's vital points with ruthless precision.

Wei Ji, in a fit of rage, spat out a mouthful of his Nascent Soul essence, and immediately, eight golden giant swords began to whirl around him. This was his ultimate defensive spell, which had blocked countless attacks in numerous battles.

Boom, boom, boom! The ice shards continued to fall relentlessly. To Wei Ji's shock, his eight golden swords, just after manifesting, began to wobble as if on the verge of collapse. Looking around, he realized that the ground was now covered with a layer of unmelting frost, enhancing the power of ice-based spells significantly.

Crack, crack!

Cracks quickly formed on the eight golden swords. Before Wei Ji could react, they shattered into pieces in the blink of an eye. His body was blown away by the force, tumbling through the air.

As he tried to rise, he noticed a figure approaching, stepping through the cold air. A fearsome ghost, grim and ghastly, floated beside the figure, holding a black, blood-streaked chain that was chilling to behold. The chain had not yet struck, but Wei Ji could feel it binding him completely, ready to smash him into a pulp if he made any sudden move.

Suddenly, a scream pierced the air. Wei Ji instinctively looked toward Liu Ruoshui, who was being brutally assaulted by a massive dark figure. On closer inspection, it was a high-level Corpse King! Liu Ruoshui, covered in injuries, was clearly no match for it.

In less than two breaths, the situation had dramatically reversed. From victors, they had become trapped beasts. The Golden Core disciples of the Corpse Yin Sect were utterly shocked by the scene.

Bai Jinkun and Wan Wuying, however, remained composed. After all, this "Lin Fan" was a formidable Nascent Soul cultivator. While Wei Ji and his companion had set their own trap, this Nascent Soul cultivator had also been waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

Wei Ji managed a bitter smile as he looked toward the Golden Core cultivator he had never truly noticed before. He had some recollection of this person. The last time Wan Hun visited Gold Thunder Mountain, he had brought three Golden Core disciples. Wei Ji had merely glanced at them without much interest.

Who could have imagined that this seemingly insignificant Golden Core cultivator had been controlling Wan Hun from the shadows and possessed such overwhelming strength? He was completely outmatched.

Wan Hun stood respectfully next to Chu Xuan, expressing his gratitude, "Thank you for your assistance, Master."

Zheng Ji stared at Chu Xuan for a long time, utterly dumbfounded by the turn of events.

Thud.

Two Arms and Four Arms escorted Liu Ruoshui to Chu Xuan's side. "Both of you, eat this," Chu Xuan casually handed out two bee eggs.

Wei Ji and Liu Ruoshui exchanged a glance, each giving a wry smile before consuming the bee eggs. Given the current circumstances, they had no choice but to submit to control if they wanted to survive.

"Master..." Wei Ji and Liu Ruoshui sighed deeply, bowing their heads in resignation.

"Dispel the illusion," Chu Xuan commanded nonchalantly.

"Yes," Wei Ji replied, retrieving the illusionary array disc and gently tapping it. The scenery of ruined buildings and desolation in Flying Thunder Valley instantly reverted back to its former picturesque state of clear mountains and waters.

Chu Xuan then turned to Zheng Ji, who managed a bitter smile, "I suppose I'll take one as well..."

Wan Hun swept his gaze over the three subdued cultivators, feeling a peculiar sense of satisfaction. Finally, others had fallen into the same predicament as him. For some reason, this even brought him a bit of joy.

"Today's events must not be disclosed. Anyone who disobeys will face death," Chu Xuan stated calmly. "Zheng Ji, make sure you keep your disciples in line."

Zheng Ji nodded vigorously, "Master, rest assured, they have already taken the Heart-Eating Powder; they wouldn't dare to defy my orders."

Chu Xuan's smile was tinged with irony, "That's good to hear."

Those disciples from the Corpse Yin Sect promptly knelt down, "Please be assured, senior, we swear never to reveal what happened today."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly. He waved his hand, drawing Hu back into the Corpse Tower, then said with a slight smile, "From now on, we are all one family. There is no need to be formal."

Wei Ji, Liu Ruoshui, and the others, nursing their wounds, slowly got to their feet. Upon hearing Chu Xuan's words, they couldn't help but smirk internally.

One family? Trust that if you will, but they certainly didn't.

Wei Ji's gaze lingered on Hu. The Corpse King seemed familiar, yet he couldn't quite place where he had seen it before. "Corpse puppets all look similar, big and ugly... Maybe I'm just mistaken," he thought to himself.

Chu Xuan spoke casually, "We are near the Corpse Yin Sect. Let's go there to discuss further matters."

Zheng Ji responded with respect, "Yes, I will arrange for it immediately."

Chapter 285: Someone from the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect

At dusk, within the grand hall of the Corpse Yin Sect, the massive doors thunderously closed, leaving only Chu Xuan and his four companions inside.

Outside the grand hall, the Golden Core disciples of the Corpse Yin Sect looked at each other in confusion.

"Hey? Why can that Golden Core cultivator enter the grand hall while we can't?"

"Yeah, is he special or something?"

"I remember that person is Lin Fan from the Myriad Souls Sect, he's only at the second layer of Golden Core."

"I don't know, I don't dare to ask…"

The three Corpse Yin Sect Golden Core disciples who had witnessed Chu Xuan's terrifying abilities just listened to their fellow brothers' discussions, practicing the art of keeping one's peace. They acted as if they heard nothing.

Inside the hall, Chu Xuan cut straight to the point, "Wei Ji, explain how you came from Central Continent to Northern Cold."

Wei Ji was taken aback by how easily Chu Xuan called out his name. All the explanations he had prepared along the way were stuck in his throat, unable to emerge.

Wei Ji?

Zheng Ji and Wan Hun murmured the name, pondering over it. It took them a moment to realize.

Isn't this a Nascent Soul cultivator from the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace? What's he doing in Northern Cold?

Wei Ji managed a wry smile, "So, you knew my identity all along."

Liu Ruoshui spoke up in a low voice, "I am Liu Ruoshui, also a Nascent Soul cultivator from Feather Transformation Heaven Palace."

"Tell me how you ended up in Northern Cold," Chu Xuan said calmly, his voice firm, "and don't think about lying. Your lives are in my hands."

With a resigned sigh, Wei Ji had no choice but to recount the persecution they faced from Zhao Kai and their subsequent decision to flee to Northern Cold.

Chu Xuan raised an eyebrow after hearing the explanation.

The Realm Protection Array!

Such a thing indeed existed. However, Chu Xuan hadn't expected that Mystic Azure Realm would have a Realm Protection Array. It seemed the Reincarnation Divine Church placed great importance on Mystic Azure Star.

Like a sect's grand protective array, the Realm Protection Array was immense, meant to cover an entire world. Its creation required vast resources, including at least two Deity Transformation stage array masters and eight Nascent Soul stage array masters to set up properly.

Moreover, setting up the array was time-consuming and laborious—it was meant to encompass the whole cultivation star, and any flaw could lead to its failure.

Chu Xuan recalled a conversation he had with Ximen Qing at an outpost battlefront; not every cultivation star had a Realm Protection Array. Only those stars deemed crucial by the Reincarnation Divine Church were equipped with one.

For instance, the Majestic Sword Sect's Dawn Star did not have one because it was located in the core area of the Reincarnation Divine Church's territory, and there was no immediate need to establish such an array.

Considering this, it made sense that the Reincarnation Divine Church had invested heavily in setting up the Realm Protection Array on Mystic Azure Star, a resource-rich location that was also at the frontline of their conflict with the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect. Naturally, they couldn't allow the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect to capture it easily.

"…So, the locations you two occupied, Gold Thunder Mountain and Flying Thunder Valley, are where two of the major nodes of the Realm Protection Array are situated?" Chu Xuan narrowed his eyes.

Wei Ji nodded affirmatively. "Exactly. The Realm Protection Array is rarely activated; it is reserved for times of dire peril. Therefore, only the upper echelons of the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace are aware of the locations of these nodes. I only learned of them after I stole some classified information before leaving the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly. Wei Ji and Liu Ruoshui's lives were in his hands, and he doubted they would dare to lie to him. Considering everything, it indeed seemed plausible.

For now, all that was left was to wait for the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect to make their move.

"You may all return to your previous duties. Everything remains as it was," Chu Xuan instructed with a wave of his hand. "When people from the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect arrive, just send me a message."

Wei Ji and the others stood up and bowed. "Yes."

Moments later, Chu Xuan was on Wan Hun's flying magic treasure, heading back to the Yin Soul Mountain Range. As he looked down at the rivers and mountains below, a smile crept across his face. With this, he had Northern Cold—one-fifth of Mystic Azure Star—under his control.

...

Blue Star.

During the days waiting for the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect's cultivators to arrive, Chu Xuan was far from idle. The Ice Soul Crystals were now in place, and he couldn't afford to waste a single moment. Advancing to the fifth level of the Nascent Soul stage was urgent. Only with sufficient strength could he command from a position of authority.

Twelve years passed in the blink of an eye. The basket of Ice Soul Crystals before Chu Xuan, which had once been full, was now depleted, leaving only dull, shattered remnants on the ground. Around him, a vast expanse of frost had formed, turning the surrounding high-rise buildings into sculptures of ice.

Sunlight reflected off the ice, casting a spectrum of colors, yet it could not melt the frost by even a fraction. This was a local phenomenon created by cultivating the "Mysterious Heavenly Ice Soul Scroll."

Suddenly, a chilling cold burst forth from within Chu Xuan, spreading in all directions with unprecedented intensity. Birds flying overhead, already burdened by the local cold, now fell heavily to the ground, turning into lifelike ice sculptures upon impact.

As Chu Xuan's aura surged to a new level, he opened his eyes, which had taken on an icy blue hue.

"Nascent Soul Fifth Layer!" he exclaimed joyfully. The augmentation from the Ice Soul Crystals had accelerated his cultivation rate significantly, making him realize that his treatment might even surpass that of a Holy Son of the Reincarnation Divine Church.

"It's time to return to Mystic Azure Star," Chu Xuan mused, "The Heaven Shaking Divine Sect has been biding its time for long enough; they must be ready to make their move by now."

Connecting his mind with the Mirror, Chu Xuan stepped back into his cultivation chamber at Black Devil Peak. Given the clear situation in Northern Cold, if the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect didn't approach him soon, he would consider them fools, unworthy of contending with the Reincarnation Divine Church. He might as well pledge allegiance to the Reincarnation Divine Church directly.

"Hmm? There's actually a message." Chu Xuan infused his spiritual qi into the transmission jade. Wan Hun's voice immediately emerged from it.

"Master, messages have come in from Wei Ji, Liu Ruoshui, and Zheng Ji. A black-robed cultivator claiming to be Shi Juntian from the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect has visited, inviting them to join under the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect's banner. He bestowed numerous treasures upon them and promised divine items for transcending to the Deity Transformation phase."

"Shi Juntian has also approached the Myriad Souls Sect with the same request. However, he expressed a desire to meet the person behind me before discussing further about the treasures."

"Master, I think this person is rather formidable. Do you plan to meet him?"

After listening to Wan Hun's message, Chu Xuan frowned slightly but soon relaxed. This Shi Juntian was no ordinary figure. He had discerned that Wan Hun was under his control, though he surely hadn't guessed that Wei Ji, Liu Ruoshui, and Zheng Ji were also under Chu Xuan's influence.

"Arrange a meeting with him at the Corpse Yin Sect. I'll accompany you," Chu Xuan instructed calmly. "If he is apprehensive, let him bring Wei Ji and Liu Ruoshui along."

"Yes, I will relay the message right away," Wan Hun responded respectfully.

Chapter 286: Better I Come and Take It Myself

In the grand hall of the Corpse Yin Sect, Chu Xuan and Wan Hun once again found themselves entering the familiar setting. This time, several individuals were already waiting inside.

Sitting at the head of the gathering was the black-robed cultivator from the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect, Shi Juntian. Accompanying him were Wei Ji, Zheng Ji, and Liu Ruoshui, who all displayed smiles and acted with utmost respect towards Shi Juntian.

Upon noticing the arrival of Wan Hun and another, Shi Juntian's gaze shifted. His eyes moved past Wan Hun and settled on Chu Xuan with a curious expression. "And this is…?" he inquired, his tone filled with intrigue.

Shi Juntian had already conducted a thorough investigation of the sects in Northern Cold. He was well aware of who Lin Fan was—supposedly just a minor cultivator at the second layer of Golden Core.

Yet, here he was, the puppet master behind Wan Hun, a fact Shi Juntian had never managed to discern, a revelation that he found truly unsettling.

Shi Juntian stood up, greeting them with a smile, "Greetings, fellow daoist Wan. And how should I address this distinguished person beside him?"

Chu Xuan responded calmly, "A name is but a code; knowing my identity is sufficient for you, fellow daoist Shi."

Laughing heartily, Shi Juntian replied, "Very well! Then I shall address you as fellow daoist Lin Fan, if that is acceptable?"

"That will do," Chu Xuan nodded slightly.

Zheng Ji rose and offered his seat at the head, "Please, fellow daoist Lin, take this seat here."

Chu Xuan took the offered seat opposite Shi Juntian. As the grand hall doors slowly closed, the room's atmosphere tensed subtly.

Shi Juntian then began, smiling, "Fellow daoist Lin, you are surely aware of the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect?"

"Of course."

"And, you must also be aware of the longstanding grudge between the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect and the Reincarnation Divine Church?"

"Indeed, I am."

Continuing, Shi Juntian added, "Then you must understand that the Reincarnation Divine Church is no longer as powerful as it once was. Joining the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect now would be a wise decision for you. Once Mystic Azure Star falls under our control, those who have switched allegiances early will certainly receive the Sect's favor."

Chu Xuan responded with a light chuckle, "And what sort of favor are you suggesting?"

Shi Juntian leaned forward slightly, his voice lowering as he unveiled the incentives, "The finest magic treasures! Secret spiritual sense techniques! And even… items for Deity Transformation!"

Chu Xuan smiled faintly. "Ma Feiyue once told me the same thing, but unlike fellow Daoist Shi, they didn’t speak in vague promises. They were much more concrete in their words."

Upon hearing this, Wei Ji and the others exchanged curious glances, especially Wan Hun, who wore an expression that suggested he was trying to avoid notice, focusing solely on his own breathing.

Feather Transformation Heaven Palace’s Ma Feiyue? Wasn’t that person killed by you? How could she have possibly said such a thing to you?

Shi Juntian sneered, "Oh? What do you mean by 'concrete'? Please, enlighten me."

Chu Xuan spoke calmly, "They promised that if I helped the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace and ultimately assisted in repelling the forces of the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect, they would grant me the position of an Elder, two top-tier magic treasures, two Nascent Soul-level secret techniques for spiritual sense, and five top-tier Nascent Soul-level talismans. A century’s worth of offerings in the form of Spirit Nourishing Essence was also promised."

He turned his gaze to Shi Juntian, whose lips twitched in displeasure. "Fellow Daoist Shi, compared to the vague promises you’ve made, doesn’t the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace’s commitment seem far more grounded in reality?"

Wei Ji and Liu Ruoshui, both unconsciously touched their noses.

Ma Feiyue was a bloodthirsty, battle-hungry maniac. Her mind was filled with the craving for power, not promises like that!

Wan Hun and Zheng Ji exchanged looks. They were utterly bewildered by their master’s audacity in fabricating such tales—without so much as a blush.

Shi Juntian’s face darkened. He had never interacted with the loyal faction of the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace. He had no way of knowing whether Chu Xuan’s words were true.

However, with the current turbulence, it seemed plausible that the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace, having made contact with the Northern Cold demon cultivators, might indeed be trying to draw them into their fold.

Shi Juntian pondered for a moment, shaking his head. "Fellow Daoist Lin, your words are misguided. The Reincarnation Divine Sect is already in decline. When the two sects clash for supremacy, they will surely fall."

Chu Xuan’s voice remained indifferent. "I don’t believe that."

Shi Juntian’s face twisted with irritation.

"You don’t believe it? Then what am I even saying?!" he thought, his mind racing.

Shi Juntian’s face turned stormy. "Fellow Daoist Lin, do not be so reckless. I represent the Heavenly Shattering Sect! A sixth-tier cultivation sect!"

He slammed his palm onto the table. His aura surged explosively.

The sect hall was filled with the intense presence of a Nascent Soul cultivator, the air charged with tension as decorative vases shattered under the weight of the powerful aura.

Zheng Ji watched with dismay as his hall was being unintentionally vandalized during the heated exchange. He thought to himself, somewhat helplessly, Can't we have a civilized conversation without breaking things?

Shi Juntian, now standing and slamming his hand on the table to emphasize his point, declared boldly, "If you do not wish to join the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect under my banner, then I have no choice but to send you to the underworld today!" His aura surged, an implicit threat in the powerful wave of energy that filled the hall.

Chu Xuan scoffed dismissively. "Fellow daoist Shi, for a cultivator of your stature, such a lack of composure is unbecoming."

Shi Juntian sneered, "Those who refuse to abandon the darkness and come into the light are nothing but dogs of the Reincarnation Divine Church. Seize him! Let's capture this traitor!"

"Yes!"

Wei Ji, Liu Ruoshui, and Zheng Ji let out a low roar and pounced at the same time.

Then, Shi Juntian was captured.

Shi Juntian,"???"

Shi Juntian's eyes widened in disbelief. "What are you doing?! Not me!"

Wei Ji's face was expressionless as he confirmed, "Yes, it's you."

Following his declaration, Wei Ji and the others turned to Chu Xuan and bowed deeply, "We pay our respects, Master."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly, "We're all family here; there's no need for such formalities."

The four stood back up, their allegiance unmistakably clear. Shi Juntian was dumbfounded. He couldn't comprehend the reality that not only had Wan Hun been under Chu Xuan's control, but Wei Ji, Liu Ruoshui, and Zheng Ji were too.

"When did this happen?" Shi Juntian thought, his mind racing through the possibilities.

Chu Xuan, smiling warmly, suggested, "Now that things are clear, can we have a proper discussion, fellow daoist Shi?"

Shi Juntian managed a wry smile, "Yes, of course."

"Release him," Chu Xuan waved dismissively. Swiftly, the ropes, gauze, and blood cords retracted into the hands of Wei Ji and the others, who then casually returned to their seats and resumed their tea, as if the dramatic confrontation had never occurred.

Shi Juntian sat down again, his earlier arrogance washed away, replaced by a wariness of Chu Xuan.

Chu Xuan continued calmly, "Which side I join is irrelevant to me."

Shi Juntian chuckled bitterly, "I understand. I assure you, fellow daoist Lin, that should you decide to join our Heaven Shaking Divine Sect, whatever the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace promised, we will double it once Mystic Azure Star is integrated into our territory. However... Deity Transformation materials are exceedingly rare; I can only promise one. But I will ensure delivery within fifty years. If it takes longer, I, Shi Juntian, will present my head to you."

Chu Xuan dismissed the offer with a gesture, "No need for that. You shouldn't have to present your head; I'll come and collect it myself."

Shi Juntian, momentarily speechless, soon recovered as they continued to discuss various matters. After thoroughly understanding the Heaven Shaking Divine Sect's plans, Chu Xuan finally bid Shi Juntian farewell.

"Today's conversation with fellow daoist Shi was most enlightening; I consider you a kindred spirit," Chu Xuan said with a smile.

Shi Juntian's lips twitched—a forced smile hiding his discomfort, "Indeed... In my heart, fellow daoist Lin is certainly a kindred spirit."

"This is a transmission jade; please keep it well," Shi Juntian added, presenting a small, enchanted stone.

"We shall meet again," he concluded, then swiftly boarded his flying magic treasure, leaving without looking back.

Chu Xuan watched him go, the corners of his mouth tilting up slightly in amusement.