Ancient Godly Monarch - Chapter 218

Chapter 218: Leaving the Safety Area

The vast majority living in the Royal Capital had their eyes on this battle, except for the Mo Clan.

The Mo Clan only focused their attention on Mo Qingcheng. The Pill Emperor’s daughter Luo He had taken an immense liking to Mo Qingcheng and had urged Bai Fei as well as the others to hurry up and bring her back to their Pill Emperor Hall.

Currently, Hua Xiaoyun had many thoughts running through his head. This was because yesterday, his elder brother told him to try and form a good relationship with Mo Qingcheng. The reason for this was because the Pill Emperor’s daughter Luo He, highly regarded her talent, and if Mo Qingcheng were to perform well in the Pill Emperor Hall, Luo He would introduce her into the tutelage of her own father – the Pill Emperor.

If she really became the disciple of the Pill Emperor, Mo Qingcheng’s status in the Pill Emperor Hall would soar all the way to the top. By then, no matter where in the Grand Xia Empire she chose to go, there would always be a place for her.

Forget how ‘great’ or ‘distinguished’ Hua Xiaoyun was when at the Mo Residence. When the time came, someone with his level of talent would have already long been shunted to the side.

Thus, during the times where Hua Xiaoyun and old man Mo conversed, he would praise Mo Qingcheng’s beauty and hinted that he had a liking for her. Leaving aside the level of his talent, using his status as a basis, as well as the fact that he introduced an amazing teacher to Mo Qingcheng, how could old man Mo object? However this was not the time to force things on Mo Qingcheng. The only thing he could do now was to create more chances for Hua Xiaoyun to hang out with his granddaughter.

Mo Qingcheng only felt utter vexation. She was exceedingly irritated in her heart, but still had to feign civility. She was extremely worried about the state of affairs in the Royal Capital, wondering if that dumbo was still doing okay. She didn’t want anything to happen to him.

“Miss, the battle will soon reach its conclusion. Those from the Nine Mystical Palace have finally appeared. Luo Qianqiu is also present and he wants to kill Qin Wentian.” At this moment, a subordinate relayed the latest news to Mo Qingcheng.

Mo Qingcheng abruptly stood up, feeling something squeezing her heart as she clenched her little fist.
Upon seeing this scenario, an imperceptible cold intent flashed past Hua Xiaoyun’s eyes. Why was Mo Qingcheng so agitated and nervous the moment Qin Wentian’s name was mentioned? To the point where she even treated him, Hua Xiaoyun, like thin air. How could he lose out to this country bumpkin from Chu? How important was he in Mo Qingcheng’s heart? The feeling of being given the cold shoulder because of that oaf really sucked, he felt extremely uncomfortable in his heart.

“Junior Sister, it’s impossible for you two. Just forget him,” Bai Fei faintly stated, and she frowned.

“Qingcheng, your future will be incomparably glorious. Why are you behaving like this? Qin Wentian? He has no qualifications to fall in love with you,” Hua Xiaoyun added.

“What has this got to do with you?” Mo Qingcheng snapped as she coldly swept a glance at Hua Xiaoyun. She was already in a bad mood, how could she not be infuriated when these people were shooting sarcastic remarks one after another. At this moment, Mo Qingcheng reverted back to the cold and indifferent personality she had before she met Qin Wentian. This was the image she portrayed to the world. Only in front of Qin Wentian would she show her mischievous and adorable side.
The tone of Mo Qingcheng caused Hua Xiaoyun to stiffen as a terrifying glint of cold light flickered in his eyes.

“Hehehe.” Hua Xiaoyun laughed sinisterly in his heart. Mo Qingcheng had the gall to treat him like this? If it were not for him, would the Mo Clan have this opportunity? How could the Mo Clan have today? How could Mo Qingcheng be accepted as a disciple of the Pill Emperor Hall?

“I gave you face but you chose to ignore it. I shall soon let you know my prowess.” Hua Xiaoyun stared at the beautiful countenance of Mo Qingcheng as he fantasized in his heart. He wanted to see how cold would she still be when in the throes of passion.

Hua Xiaoyun flicked his sleeves and left, his actions causing Jing Yu and and Yan Qi to burst out into laughter. This silk-pants young master truly had a temper. They only felt joy seeing Hua Xiaoyun’s hopes of wooing Mo Qingcheng get smashed into pieces.
Mo Qingcheng naturally didn’t notice Hua Xiaoyun’s attitude, and didn’t know that she had offended him. In her heart, there was only Qin Wentian.

…………
Qin Wentian calmly stared at Luo Qianqiu and Chu Tianjiao. The intensity of their glares clearly portrayed how much they wanted his death.

The Nine Mystical Palace was the power supporting Chu’s Royal Clan from the shadows. They were the ones that instigated the hunt for the Emperor Star Academy’s students, unwilling to relent despite the dissolution of the academy. Not only that, through their machinations, even Diyi was grievously injured and then captured by the Nine Mystical Palace.

It filled Qin Wentian’s heart with pain just thinking of the chains penetrated through Diyi’s body as he was brought away. The old man’s final mission to pave Qin Wentian’s future path for him. His actions had been done all for the sake of Qin Wentian, to the extent where he didn’t even care about his life.

The Nine Mystical Palace, must be destroyed.

This wasn’t the first time Luo Qianqiu wanted to kill him. Back then he was still a weakling at the Arterial Circulation Realm, he had no choice but to spare Luo Qianqiu and was even humiliated by Luo Tianya. Yet, Luo Qianqiu deserved to die for his many attempts on Qin Wentian’s life.

Chu Tianjiao had treated the lives of his citizens like weeds, personally ordering for the young females of his country to be abducted, to be used as nutrients for nurturing the four blood puppets. With this kind of person as the Emperor, how could the country not be in dire straits?

Chu Tianjiao, similarly also deserved death.

“Wow wow wow, how awe-inspiring, mighty and imposing the Nine Mystical Palace is.” From afar, a voice tinged with heavy arrogance rang out, as two rows of silhouettes flew through the air.

Ouyang Kuangsheng brought over several of his followers from the Ouyang Clan, as well as those from the Jiang Clan (transcendent power). While his arrival wasn’t unexpected, what caused Qin Wentian’s gaze to freeze in slight astonishment was that the second row of silhouettes, were actually people from the Greencloud Pavilion.

“Qian Mengyu?” Luo Qianqiu’s countenance turned unsightly. “Does your Greencloud Pavilion want a piece of the action as well?”

“Luo Qianqiu, to avenge your defeat from back then, you brought people from the Nine Mystical Palace to help you now? Do you have no shame at all? Can’t you defeat him by yourself?” Qian Mengyu coldly sneered.

“Hmph, to kill him? Do I look like I need to enlist the aid of my Nine Mystical Palace’s members? It’s just that he only knows how to hide in there, so I’m merely bringing more people to pressure him into coming out,” Luo Qianqiu’s voice was ice-cold as he pointed in Qin Wentian’s direction. His loss to Qin Wentian at the Jun Lin Banquet back then was a black stain on his heart.

“Nicely said.” Ouyang Kuangsheng’s arms were crossed in front of his chest. He smiled, “Since the Nine Mystical Palace wants to come here and play, then we shall play. But let me say something first, after today’s matter is concluded, Chu shall no longer be under the administration of the Nine Mystical Palace. Since you’re all already here, if you win, you will be the victors. But if you lose, you shall die. DON’T BE A P*SSY AND CALL EVEN MORE OF YOUR MEMBERS OVER!”

“What an impudent speech. Who are you?” Behind Luo Qianqiu, a supreme expert unleashed an extremely tyrannical aura, his eyes locking onto Ouyang Kuangsheng.

“Don’t look at me like that. So what if you’re a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign? When your father me, stands in front of you, I don’t believe you would even dare touch a single hair on my head.” Ouyang Kuangsheng gave no pretence of cordiality as he stared at the old man. “Azure Continent, Ouyang Kuangsheng from the Ouyang Clan. Since your Nine Mystical Palace wants to play, my Ouyang Aristocrat Clan shall accompany you in this game.”

That Heavenly Dipper Sovereign stiffened, as shock widened his eyes. The Ouyang Clan? Why would those from the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan appear in Chu?

“This is what my Greencloud Pavilion feels as well. Since the Nine Mystical Palace wants to conclude matters, let’s let everything end here today. If Luo Qianqiu dies, so be it. If the Nine Mystical Palace still wants to continue playing their tricks in the future, likewise, my Greencloud Pavilion shall accompany you all in the game as well.”

Qian Mengyu’s attitude bewildered Qin Wentian, while the countenances of those from the Nine Mystical Palace turned ashen.

Never would they have predicted that both the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan and Greencloud Pavilion would have such an attitude.

Chu Tianjiao furrowed his brows, feeling that his plans were falling apart. This Ouyang Kuangsheng’s character was too rampant, he even dared to behave in such a manner when talking to a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign. This caused Chu Tianjiao to feel that the Ouyang Clan was an existence that even the Nine Mystical Palace dared not offend.

“Qianqiu, matters are getting troublesome, we don’t have absolute odds of success,” the Heavenly Dipper Sovereign from the Nine Mystical Palace intoned in a low voice.

Luo Qianqiu went silent for a moment before drawing in a deep breath. Since he came back to Chu today, how could he run back to the Nine Mystical Palace with his tails between his legs? If he didn’t take the chance to kill Qin Wentian today, where would he find him in the future?

“I, concur. Old Yan, go destroy the thirty-six drums,” Luo Qianqiu indifferently commanded. The Heavenly Dipper Sovereign named Old Yan sighed as he nodded his head. Now, Luo Qianqiu’s status within the Nine Mystical Palace was no longer the same as before. Since he wished to battle, Old Yan could only accompany him in this madness. It should be fine as long as he didn’t cross the young master of the Ouyang Clan.

Old Yan acted. As a thunderous sound blasted out, the manifestation of a gigantic leg slammed down from the Heavens, right onto the thunder dragon.

Sounds of booming rang out, as the thunder dragon exploded from the impact. The manifestation of the Leg-type Astral Nova, continued sweeping downwards, the pressure emanated from it caused the white-robed men behind the thirty-six drums to spit out fresh blood as their countenance turned incomparably pale.

At this moment, a graceful figure floated upwards. Her appearance was just as mysterious and abrupt as before.

Raising her jade hands, Qing`er’s entire body glimmered with Astral Light. Folding hand seals, a pure and vibrant lotus containing killing energy of such menacing quality, blasted towards the gigantic leg. The lotus expanded unceasingly, the power contained within it forcing the leg-type Astral Nova to be forcefully pushed back.

Two opposing silhouettes simultaneously dashed out. Old Yan as well as Qing`er soared towards the skies as the two Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns began their battle.

“Is this Qinger’s true strength?” Qin Wentian mumbled, his gaze on Qinger. Even during such a ferocious fight, her countenance still remained as otherworldly as before, like a faerie from the celestial realms.

“What a beautiful girl. Damn that Qin Wentian,” Ouyang Kuangsheng exclaimed somewhat jealously, “Wait, isn’t that the peerless beauty from the Celestial Lake Palace?”

“Ouyang, help me in settling the four blood puppets below.” Qin Wentian pointed to the four figures clad in blood-colored robes.

“Got it. You guys, go kill them,” Ouyang commanded, and behind him several experts flew out. At the same time, a few other vice-headmaster level experts from the Emperor Star Academy also pooled their efforts together, entrapping the four blood puppets.

Chu Tianjiao signalled with his hands, and momentarily, several Yuanfu experts on his side flew towards the balcony Chu Wuwei and Qin Wentian were on. That entire space instantly erupted into chaos. Towering killing intents and overflowing auras of destruction enveloped the Heavens and Earth, and even those spectators looking from afar felt stifled by the presences they felt.
Utter pandemonium, these were the only words that could describe what was happening on the battlefield now. As the experts from the Nine Mystical Palace clashed against those from the Ouyang and Greencloud Pavilion, the Qin Troops slaughtered their way towards Chu Tianjiao. As for the balcony Chu Wuwei and Qin Wentian were on, they were the only two that remained as relaxed as before, while they surveyed the battlefield.

Luo Qianqiu and Chu Tianjiao hadn’t made their moves as well. Luo Qianqiu was glaring at Qin Wentian as he icily stated, “I truly don’t understand why so many people are willing to be meat-shields for you. Are you only capable of acting like a coward, hiding behind them?”

Obviously, Luo Qianqiu was trying to agitate Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian merely smiled at Luo Qianqiu, his response causing Luo Qianqiu to frown.

“During the Jun Lin Banquet, if it were not for your father being there to protect you, you would long be a dead man. What’s ludicrous is that you are still foolishly trying to ridicule me, wanting to seek your own death.” After speaking, Qin Wentian rose into the air. His actions caused the expressions of many to tighten. Qin Wentian was too important, those that cared about him would rather he remain on the balcony, with no risk of danger befalling him.

Qin Wentian naturally understood their intentions. However, with so many people supporting him, he had to show them unquestionably that he, Qin Wentian, was worth it for those that placed their hopes in him. He, Qin Wentian, wouldn’t disappoint them.

So, he chose to leave the balcony, bereft of the protection of Chu Mang, and stood amidst the countless gazes of the crowd.

Qin Wentian stared at Luo Qianqiu. When had he ever been afraid to battle? In the Jun Lin Banquet, all odds were against him, with every step taken filled with incredible difficulty. Yet, had he not managed to persevere all the way and eventually become the champion? Today, he wanted to tell those that had supported him that he, Qin Wentian, was worthy of their support!

“You will die within ten breaths of time,” Qin Wentian spoke indifferently, like stating a fact, causing the hearts of many to tremble. How arrogant were his words?

Ten breaths, he wanted Luo Qianqiu, the genius of the Nine Mystical Palace to perish within ten breaths of time!

Chapter 219: Power of a single grab

Luo Qianqiu stood dumbly upon hearing Qin Wentian’s words. As their meaning kicked in, Luo Qianqiu began to howl with maniacal laughter. Taking a step forward, lightning flashed as his Astral Souls were released, evoking streams of violet lightning to shroud his body. The endless streams of lightning contained a highly fearsome energy within.

For Stellar Martial Cultivators, the characteristic of lightning bestowed a piercing attribute to their attacks, causing them to be extremely domineering. After he broke through to Yuanfu, for his 3rd Astral Soul, Luo Qianqiu similarly condensed a lightning-type Astral Soul.

“I’ve never heard a joke this funny in my entire life.” The streams of lightning weaved about his body, as he glowed with a resplendent violet light. The aura Luo Qianqiu exuded, was at the second level of Yuanfu.

“First breath,” Qin Wentian serenely stated, he even stretched his fingers out, taking note of the passing time. Meanwhile, the Astral Energy within his body began to surge.

His long robes fluttered, his hair turned an inky black, as his eyes became increasingly fiend-like. His whole aura was tinged heavily with a demonic Qi, as his bloodline limit activated.

Within his body, the Yuanfu that corresponded with the Heavenly Hammer Astral Soul, as well as the Yuanfu that corresponded with his Demon Sovereign Astral Soul rumbled. Terrifying amounts of Divine Energy was converted from the Astral Energy within these two Yuanfus. An instant later, the overbearing Divine Energy circulated throughout his entire body.

With three Yuanfus, Qin Wentian naturally had three times more energy reserves to ‘waste’ as compared to ordinary Yuanfu cultivators.

Luo Qianqiu’s countenance turned wrathful as he heard Qin Wentian keeping note of the time. Drawing in a deep breath, an illusory form of a Lightning Revenant manifested behind him, further augmenting his strength.

“You truly don’t know what death is. I shall let you taste the power of my Mandate,” Luo Qianqiu spat out. Abruptly, Qin Wentian felt terrifying streams of energy slamming into his body, causing biting stabs of pain within his sea of consciousness. This attack was similar to what Xiao Lan had used back then.

These incredible streams of energy, were akin to countless arcs of lightning. Luo Qianqiu stood there motionlessly, while Qin Wentian felt his entire body growing numb from the thunder shocks.

“How are you feeling now?” Crazed laughter could be seen in the eyes of Luo Qianqiu as he stared at Qin Wentian.

“Third breath.” Just as indifferent as before, Qin Wentian replied. He was still taking note of the passing time, his response caused Luo Qianqiu’s countenance to turn incredibly ugly.

Doesn’t he know how terrifyingly powerful a Mandate was? Even if he didn’t know, why was he acting like he felt nothing?

Qin Wentian continued to stand calmly, every single bit of his actions were overwhelmingly arrogant. It was as though the arrogance had seeped into his bones and blood. This was his natural bearing, that of a regal monarch looking down from the Heavens. As the Divine Yuan Energy fully circulated around his body, a forcefield of absolute obedience blasted outwards.
“Fourth breath,” Qin Wentian continued, as Luo Qianqiu’s smile froze. The stare he directed at Qin Wentian, was bone-chillingly cold. Qin Wentian’s attitude felt like slaps raining on his face. What was Qin Wentian treating him, Luo Qianqiu, as?

Chu Wuwei serenely stood on the balcony. It was as though no matter what might happen, he would still be able to keep his composure.

In truth, he wasn’t that confident in his chances of success for the dispute over the Emperor’s throne. After all, the forces he could control were limited. His source of confidence came from Qin Wentian, there was no way his judgement would be wrong. Since he had already recognised Qin Wentian’s talent, he had absolute trust in him. Thus, he unwaveringly believed that today’s victor would surely be Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian being victorious, would also mean that he, Chu Wuwei, would be victorious.

“Chu Mang, go protect Qin Wentian from sneak attacks. I’m worried that our third brother might do something against him,” Chu Wuwei commanded.

“Right.” Chu Mang soared out, standing stationary in the air at a place not far from Qin Wentian. His gaze was directed at Chu Tianjiao, taking note of his every movement. He would do anything his elder brother asked him to do.

“Fifth breath.”

As the sound of his words rang out, Luo Qianqiu’s countenance turned malevolent. Qin Wentian was humiliating him.

Drawing in deep breaths, Luo Qianqiu forcibly calmed himself. He knew that rage and anger were the greatest taboo when it came to combat. Yet he involuntarily felt this way because Qin Wentian was a tangled knot in his heart.

The seemingly inexhaustible amounts of violet lightning crackled, as they formed an incomparably immense sword of lightning. The illusory form of the Lightning Revenant behind Luo Qianqiu stretched its hands out, as it wielded the immense sword. The terrifying might the apparition exuded caused the hearts of those witnessing it to tremble.

Boom. Luo Qianqiu advanced forwards as the power from his Mandate of Lightning infused the gigantic sword, the pressure bearing down on Qin Wentian.

“Ten breaths?” This must be the greatest joke ever in the Nine Heavens. He wanted to show all the spectators how pitiful Qin Wentian would look when the ten breaths of time was up, dodging his own attacks like a dog running away with its tail between its legs.

Just as Qin Wentian stated the six breath, Luo Qianqiu begun his attack. The dazzling sword of lightning slashed out with might, the tearing sound of the void akin to a god howling in anger, his attack was incomparably tyrannical.

“Thunder Beheading Slash!” Luo Qianqiu roared in anger, the gigantic sword of lightning slashed down with terrifying speed. The insights of the Mandate of Lightning were also incorporated into this attack.

First level of the Mandate of Lightning – Eruption. The cultivators’ speed or attack would be enhanced tremendously. Luo Qianqiu’s strike contained the insight of Eruption within it.

Qin Wentian inclines his head, the threatening force of the lightning sword felt as though it would penetrate his body. He could obviously sense how strong Luo Qianqiu’s strike really was. However, the conclusion of the battle today would put a punctuation mark on this war of Chu. Thus, to butcher Luo Qianqiu, he decided he would use the most overwhelming and dominant method at his disposal.

That fiendishly handsome countenance reflected cold arrogance. Qin Wentian stepped forwards and actually moved towards Luo Qianqiu, towards the direction of that terrifying gigantic sword.

The crowd only saw Qin Wentian thrusting his left hand up in the air in a grabbing motion. This scene caused the hearts of everyone to shudder, as incredulous expressions of disbelief and stupefied amazement appeared on their faces.

“Wentian.” Qin Chuan’s heart palpitated with fear. Many people had thought that Qin Wentian had gone crazy from the incredible pressure. He was only at the first level of Yuanfu, yet he dared to use his bare hands to catch that? The scenario of Qin Wentian getting sliced in half was already playing in their minds.

Those from the Nine Mystical Palace all had mocking expressions on their faces. How laughable that they had felt some fear for Luo Qianqiu earlier. After all, the pressure exuded from Qin Wentian didn’t lose out to a cultivator at the second level of Yuanfu. Yet in the blink of an eye, Qin Wentian seemed to have turned into a clown. How utterly ridiculous. Luo Qianqiu’s already terrifying sword-slash innate technique was further enhanced by lightning-type Astral Energy, as well as incorporated with his insights in the Mandate of Lightning. A technique of this power could effortlessly slay even a cultivator at the third level of Yuanfu, let alone a Qin Wentian.

This ignorant fellow actually wanted to catch it with his bare hands?

The blood seal within Qin Wentian’s body thrummed, as a demonic will could be felt gathering in spirals within his palm. An almost endless amount of ‘Mountain’ type Divine Energy was being converted from the Astral Energy of the Demon Sovereign Astral Soul, and then channelled unceasingly to his palm. Suddenly, a fearsome demonic Qi emanated; his palm was akin to a towering demon the size of a mountain, possessing heaven-shattering might.

Chi! Ruthlessness flashed in Luo Qianqiu’s eyes, as the gigantic lightning sword descended.

Qin Wentian remained motionless and under the thunderstruck gazes of the crowd, his left palm grabbed hold of the monstrously sharp, terrifying gigantic lightning sword.

The pounding hearts of the crowd threatened to leap out of their chests, no words were sufficient to describe what they felt. Was that still the hand of a human? Even the hand of a demon wouldn’t be so terrifying, right?

“He.. he grabbed it! He really managed to grab it!” The inky black hair of the youth fluttered in the wind, his bare palms were akin to defensive-type divine weapons. While held in Quo Wentian’s grasp, the sword was as immovable as the great mountains, and Luo Qianqiu was unable to maneuver it.

“Monster,” Ouyang Kuangsheng breathed in stupefaction. F*** his grandmother, was this an illusion? He was also at the first level of Yuanfu and all three of his Astral Souls originated from the 4th Heavenly Layer, yet that strike of Luo Qianqiu still sent shivers down his spine.

But Qin Wentian used his bare hands to grab it? And he succeeded? F*** his grandmother. Could he, Ouyang Kuangsheng, still be considered a genius?

He could faintly sense that as long as Qin Wentian wasn’t killed by those in the Grand Xia Empire, he would definitely mature into a character that could summon the rains and hail the winds.

No one knew of the profound mysteries hidden within that grab of Qin Wentian’s. With the domineering Astral Energy absorbed from the 5th Heaven Layer’s Demon Sovereign Constellation; in addition to the fact that such a tyrannical energy was converted into ‘Mountain-type’ Divine Energy; as well as the augmentation of his bloodline limit, along with the enhancement of his physique thanks to the Fiend Transformation Art; and lastly… the first level of the Mandate of Force, Strength, boosting his strength by two folds. The combination of these factors was the reason why he could appear to ‘casually’ grab it with a single hand.

Only he knew of the factors that enabled him to do so. In the eyes of others, his casual movements were incredibly profound and caused great waves of extreme shock to rock their hearts. This was especially so for Luo Qianqiu, he didn’t dare to believe his eyes. How could this be real?

Qin Wentian transformed into a blurry shadow as he dashed forwards, punching out with his right hand towards Luo Qianqiu.

How could Luo Qianqiu, who was still in shock, react in time? How could his hastily prepared defense defend against Qin Wentian’s attack? With the insights of the Mandate of Force incorporated within, how could Qin Wentian’s attack be weak? His strike instantly broke apart Luo Qianqiu’s pathetic attempt at defense, slamming into his throat as he held Luo Qianqiu in a chokehold. Luo Qianqiu had to struggle just to breathe.

“Nine breaths,” stated Qin Wentian, just as calm as before.

“If you dare to kill me, the Nine Mystical Palace will never let you go,” Luo Qianqiu threatened. However, Qin Wentian only shook his head in disappointment. Luo Qianqiu said he was a coward hiding behind meat-shields, yet now that he was going to die, he actually still wanted to use the Nine Mystical Palace to intimidate him. Qin Wentian was truly disappointed.

“How many times have you attempted to kill me now? You still want to live on after you’ve lost? Ridiculous. Also, don’t worry, I will definitely pay a personal visit to the Nine Mystical Palace and get back everything they owe me.” The calm expression of Qin Wentian’s face turned ice-cold as he abruptly tightened his fingers with a burst of strength. Luo Qianqiu howled in madness, but a moment later, his neck was snapped as his eyes turned lifeless.

“Ten breaths, whew just nice.” Qin Wentian slowly released his chokehold, allowing Luo Qianqiu’s body to fall unceremoniously onto the ground. Like he predicted, he only needed ten breaths of time to kill Luo Qianqiu, a genius who was at the second level of Yuanfu!

“This fellow.” Qian Mengyu was dumbstruck as she witnessed the domineering way in which Qin Wentian slaughtered Luo Qianqiu. This level of combat prowess was beyond terrifying. He was immeasurably stronger compared to back when he was facing against the three Swallow swordsmen. He was a true demon. Not only that, he had yet to join any of the transcendent powers. To be able to reach such a level of attainment now, how unimaginable would his prospects be in the future?

“Senior Gongyang’s judgement is truly admirable. It’s such a pity, but I don’t think it’ll be easy to recruit him into our Greencloud Pavilion.” With regret, Qian Mengyu sighed silently in her heart.

Chapter 220: Total Suppression

It had been far too long since Qin Wentian fought against someone. At this moment, just as many doubted his strength, the radiance of Luo Qianqiu’s supposed talent could only serve as a backdrop for Qin Wentian’s.

The death of that once dazzling number one in the Emperor Star Academy, a genius that was widely worshipped by many, could only serve the purpose of paving the pathway for Qin Wentian’s glory.

The clenching feeling in Qin Chuan’s heart finally dissipated. A gentle smile flickered in his eyes, as he stared at the silhouette of his son standing in the air.

“Wentian,” Qin Chuan emotionally mumbled, he was truly happy. He had adopted Qin Wentian at a very young age, taking care of him until he turned 16. He was one of the select few that understood how much effort Qin Wentian put in, how much sarcasm he had to put up with when it was discovered that Qin Wentian’s meridians were crippled. This lasted all the way till he was 16, but even before they could celebrate the fact that Qin Wentian was no longer crippled, the Qin Clan was flipped into chaos by the machinations of the Royal Clan. Luckily, all that had already passed. Qin Wentian was finally basking in the radiance he deserved.

A strange glow flashed in Qin Wu’s eyes, but no one knew what he was thinking.
Yet, unexpectedly, Qin Wentian felt the premonition of extreme danger assailing his senses. Several of Chu Tianjiao’s Yuanfu experts already in battle abruptly withdrew from their fights, shifted direction and flew explosively towards Qin Wentian. Their movements were adjusted to uniformity, as though all of it was already pre-planned.

“BE CAREFUL!” Ouyang Kuangsheng hollered. Chu Mang immediately reacted as a gigantic axe appeared in his hands. As he wielded it, terrifying undulations of the will of a Mandate could be felt gushing forth in waves.
The Great Axe Astral Soul was the 3rd Astral Soul condensed by Chu Mang. Back then, after he comprehended the Mandate of Arrows, Chu Wuwei instructed him to chop trees. Chu Mang naturally followed the instructions of his elder brother to the letter, staying a period of time within the Dark Forest, doing nothing but chopping trees day after day. At last, he felt that as long as he willed it, the tree would be split apart right through the middle. If he infused this will into his Axe, its might increased explosively.

After which, his elder brother Chu Wuwei informed him that ‘the will’ he gained, was the first level insight into the Mandate of Axe – Beheader.
His elder brother was widely read, and extremely knowledgable. Not only would he guide Chu Mang, Chu Wuwei would also spend his time guiding other talented orphans with pitiful fates, helping them to achieve the goals they wanted but couldn’t because of a lack of strength. He taught them cultivation, guided them through each and every step. Eventually, this group of people became the trusted aides of Chu Wuwei, and followed him willingly, not hesitating even if they had to die for him.
Naturally, Chu Mang knew that his elder brother truly cared for this group of people from the bottom of his heart. If not, Chu Wuwei wouldn’t have such an esteemed position in their hearts.

Chu Mang stared at the incoming attackers, and directly chopped down with his axe, just like before, when he chopped down the trees. A mysterious energy slashed down as a golden light trailed behind. The Yuanfu cultivator he targetted didn’t even have the time to scream before his body was split apart from the middle, as his blood sprayed out like bloody rain.

“WHO DARES TOUCH HIM?” Chu Mang roared in rage, as he dashed towards the other Yuanfu attackers. However at this moment, Chu Tianjiao pointed towards Chu Wuwei, as he laughed, “Chu Mang, don’t you care about the life of your elder brother anymore?”
Chu Mang turned his head only to see another group of Yuanfu attackers flying towards Chu Wuwei, with killing intent apparent in their eyes. Chu Mang howled in madness as he turned and flew towards Chu Wuwei with explosive speed.

Chu Tianjiao coldly smiled, he knew too well Chu Mang’s weakness. As long as Chu Wuwei was in the slightest bit of danger, he wouldn’t care about anyone else. Currently, the majority of powerful experts of Chu Tianjiao were all engaged in battle. With Chu Mang in the way, how could he kill Qin Wentian?
After witnessing how tyrannically Qin Wentian butchered Luo Qianqiu, the intention to kill him didn’t fade away from his heart. On the contrary, it strengthened his resolution that Qin Wentian had to die. He had to destroy Qin Wentian at all costs today, nipping this future problem in the bud.

Back when Chu Mang made his move, there were already several experts appearing beside Qin Wentian. This group of people had been concealing their auras from the start; they only had a single purpose today – to assassinate Qin Wentian.
“GO HELP QIN WENTIAN.” His other protectors was already rushing there, Chu Wuwei involuntarily scolded, “Ignore me, pay attention to third brother instead.”
At this moment, Chu Tianjiao walked towards Qin Wentian with a lantern held in his hands.

With a toss, that lantern was flung up into the air as Chu Tianjiao sent out a palm strike, shattering it into fragments. The lantern light illuminated the space between them, manifesting a sphere of light that enveloped Chu Tianjiao, Qin Wentian, as well as the assassins within it.

As the protectors of Chu Wuwei rushed over, the sphere of light had already fully formed. Summoning their strength and joining their attacks in unison, it was as though the energy of their attacks were sinking into a blackhole. There were no signs of damage on the sphere of light at all.

“This is the Liuli Lantern, a one-time use, 3rd grade top-tier divine weapon. Although this sphere of light can only last for the time an incense stick takes to burn, but because it’s a one-time use item, its sealing effects are even stronger than other similar 3rd grade sealing items. It’s impossible for Yuanfu cultivators to break this, only Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns have the power to do so.

Chu Tianjiao serenely stated, “Qin Wentian, your performance was indeed outside of my expectations, to think that you could even kill Luo Qianqiu. I have no choice but to waste this Liuli Lantern on you. Even if you die, you should be proud of this fact.”

Chu Tianjiao’s voice could be clearly heard by those outside the sphere of light. Their countenances were incredibly unsightly, as they put in even more effort into breaking apart the light sphere. However, their attempts were pointless. Just as Chu Tianjiao had said, it was impossible for Yuanfu cultivators to break this.

“Chu Tianjiao is working together with those other Yuanfu level experts, and now Qin Wentian is in danger. Chu Mang, you were too reckless.” Chu Wuwei frowned. The gazes of others in the vicinity were all directed at that location. It was as though, at least for this moment, the majority of cultivators had already lost their will to battle and would rather witness what would happen next instead.

“Wentian…” Ren Qianxing, Mustang and others from the Emperor Star Academy all had expressions of deep worry on their faces.

Although Qin Wentian’s talent was strong and his combat prowess terrifying, Chu Tianjiao was the second ranked of the ten prodigies of Chu. Furthermore, who could be certain that other than the Liuli Lantern, he didn’t have other powerful divine weapons in his arsenal?

They were all now gritting their teeth in frustration. They had been too careless, too engrossed in the battle between Qin Wentian and Luo Qianqiu, to the point where they had forgotten about Chu Tianjiao.

“Qin Wentian, what a pity you chose the wrong path. No matter how talented you are, you are fated to die here today,” Chu Tianjiao calmly stated. In his heart, there was truly a hint of admiration for Qin Wentian. Sadly, no matter who it was, as long as they were his enemies, all of them had to die.

Qin Wentian didn’t bother to reply. Walking forward, the demonic Qi he exuded grew stronger and stronger, as the coldness of his fiend-like eyes became even more pronounced.

At the same time, a heavy pressure bore heavily onto everyone in this entire space. The existence of the two sources of energy caused those within the sphere to feel unrest in their hearts.
The first level of insight of the Mandate of Force, Strength, granted a two-fold enhancement of strength to the cultivator at the initial boundary.

The first level of insight of the Mandate of Demon, Demonification, allowed one’s physique to be akin to a demon, causing the basic essence of the human body to demonify. Afterwards, they would enter into a berserk state, allowing one’s attack power to be multiplied by several-fold at the initial boundary.

A pair of demonic Garuda Wings manifested on Qin Wentian’s back. However, they were no longer illusory like before but appeared to be corporeal instead.

“KILL HIM NOW!” Chu Tianjiao’s countenance sank. He could sense that Qin Wentian had just underwent a terrifying transformation.

Bzzz~ In that instant, the assassins moved. They were equipped with sharp swords and daggers, with a speed so fast they resembled phantoms, able to assassinate their targets within the space of a single breath.

However, in the instant when they moved, Qin Wentian also began his own movements. The gusting sounds of a galewind rose up as Qin Wentian’s silhouette flickered, before vanishing from sight in the blink of an eye.

Boom! A terrifying sound rang out, Qin Wentian had grabbed hold of the head of one of the attackers and slammed him head first into the sphere of light’s walls. Blood-colored crimson light sparkled ominously within his palms. The other attackers who now stood at Qin Wentian’s original location, turned their heads as their eyes widened, revealing an expression of inconceivable disbelief on their faces.

“How fast!”

Earlier, they only saw a shadow flash past them. Qin Wentian’s speed was even faster when compared to flying-type demonic beasts and his strength… his strength was simply monstrous.

Qin Wentian smiled at the attackers, his cold eyes regarding them. After which, he sent out a palm strike shattering the cranium of the poor victim held in his grasp.

With another flap of his wings, he disappeared from sight. In fact, a small confined area like this sphere of light had given him an advantage instead. He was able to unleash his terrifying speed to their utmost limits.

“Nine Heavenly Garuda Movement Technique – Yuanfu Manual,” Ren Qianxing breathed, as his heart pounded. Qin Wentian actually managed to cultivate the Garuda Movement Technique of the Yuanfu level to such an unimaginable extent. His movements resembled an actual garuda, it was as though he was born to cultivate this innate technique.

This was the first time Ren Qianxing witnessed someone that could execute the Nine Heavenly Garuda Movement Technique at this level.

Chi! Yet another head from one of the attackers tumbled down to the ground.

Terrified screams rang out as yet another attacker’s head exploded into pieces.

The assassins died one after another. Originally, they were supposed to be the experts in killing others, yet today they became Qin Wentian’s prey instead. The sphere of light that was supposed to trap Qin Wentian, ended up trapping them instead.

Naturally the combat prowess of these assassins weren’t that high, they were only proficient in sneak attacks and ambushes, using the element of surprise. Now that they had met such a freak like Qin Wentian, they could only wait to be slaughtered.

Chu Tianjiao’s countenance turned green as he witnessed the assassins dying one after another. What was going on? Even if the combat prowess of the assassins weren’t that high, how could they be so weak to the point where they could not even be able to withstand a single blow from Qin Wentian?

A raging wind billowed, Chu Tianjiao stepped forth as the mark of a dragon appeared on his palms. The roar of an angered dragon rang out as he blasted his palms forward.

Qin Wentian’s answering palms were like the roiling waves of a tsunami, and only at the moment when their palms collided did Chu Tianjiao understand how terrifying Qin Wentian’s strength was. He was at the third level of Yuanfu and had cultivated an extremely powerful innate technique named Seal of the True Dragon, yet Qin Wentian was able to match palms effortlessly against him.

“DIE!” Qin Wentian shouted, as the blood-colored seal within his body manifested on his palms. As Chu Tianjiao was blasted into retreat, a golden ancient symbol appeared in front of him. It emanated a majestic air that caused the dragon roars of his Seal of the True Dragon to intensify in volume by several times.

“Seems like your Majesty was too busy scheming and plotting to the point that you’ve neglected your cultivation,” Qin Wentian coldly remarked. He stood there like an overlord, resembling a supreme demon from the ancient times, with an incomparably overbearing demeanor.

“Shut your trap!” Chu Tianjiao coldly hollered, as he activated the golden symbol. However at that moment, a blood-colored stone monument flew up as it hovered above the head of Qin Wentian. At the very next instant, BOOM. Chu Tianjiao felt the blood within his body circulating at an explosive speed, as his heart pounded in tandem.

“Do you think you are the only one that has divine artifacts?” Qin Wentian waved his hands causing the Yellow Springs Monuments to fly towards Chu Tianjiao. Panic could be seen in Chu Tianjiao’s eyes, he didn’t understand what was happening. Green veins protruded from his face, as he felt his blood vessels expanding. The intensity of the pounding of his heart almost drove him to madness. Be it in cultivation or competing in divine artifacts, Chu Tianjiao was still the loser.

“It’s time to conclude this farce.” Qin Wentian pointed at the monument, whose crimson glow brightened as he channelled his will into it. Chu Tianjiao groaned, spitting out fresh blood as he stood there in defeat.

Qin Wentian soared upwards, standing in the space above Chu Tianjiao.

Endless regret flooded Chu Tianjiao as he glanced upwards, seeing how imperious Qin Wentian was as he looked down at him. Why didn’t he snuff out Qin Wentian’s life earlier back then when he had the chance? Now, there was no more time for regrets, it was already too late.

Would everything really end today?

Chapter 221: Last Words of a Fallen Genius.

 

Qin Wentian stared downwards at Chu Tianjiao. Ranked second of the ten prodigies of Chu, there was no need to doubt Chu Tianjiao’s talent and strength, and yet, the disparity between him, and his brother Chu Mang, the first ranked of the ten prodigies, was actually so far apart. For the dispute of power and authority, Chu Tianjiao had neglected his cultivation. And as for Chu Mang, although he was simple-minded, his elder brother Chu Wuwei told him to put in more effort in his cultivation. Thus, he didn’t bother with anything else and just frenziedly cultivated.

This turn of events left the crowd thunderstruck. When they saw Chu Tianjiao employing the effects of the Liuli Lantern, they thought Qin Wentian was finished for sure. Even when taking into consideration that Qin Wentian could defeat Luo Qianqiu, apparently Chu Tianjiao still underestimated him.

Maybe, during the fight with Luo Qianqiu, what Qin Wentian revealed was merely the tip of the iceberg. The demonised Qin Wentian from earlier was too terrifying, how deep was the extent of Qin Wentian’s true capabilities? Not only that, the crowd couldn’t even tell which Heavenly Layer his Astral Souls were condensed from.

“Chu Tianjiao, you wanted to seal me within, yet you yourself fell into a trap of your own making. With all your cleverness, did you ever imagine this day would come?” Qin Wentian stated as he looked at Chu Tianjiao.

Chu Tianjiao wiped the traces of blood from the corner of his mouth, as a crazed look of amusement could be seen flickering in his eyes.

“I’ve underestimated you. Not just me, I think the whole of Chu, including your grandpa Qin, have underestimated your true capabilities,” Chu Tianjiao slowly continued, “No one would have thought that in the short span of two years, you would actually reach such a level. I admit that back then when I could still kill you, not regarding you highly enough was a mistake on my part. A mistake that led to this situation today.”

“Chu Tianjiao, even now do you not regret your actions? Framing loyal citizens and even offering the blood of innocent females as a sacrifice to the blood puppets. Your actions are too inhumane,” Qin Wentian coldly stated as he stared at Chu Tianjiao.

“You are too naïve,” Chu Tianjiao coldly retorted, “Ever since the beginning of time, the winners will be the victors, while the losers will be vilified. The seats of Emperors and Monarchs were always made from mountains of bones from corpses. As for framing loyal citizens? Are you referring to your grandfather, Qin Wu? From your impression of him, he’s a kindly old man. What a joke, if he was just an ordinary peace-loving old man, would he command a character like Icehawk to be undercover for so many years? If he was an ordinary old man, how would he be able to escape from the Black Stronghold?”

Chu Tianjiao stared mockingly at Qin Wentian, “How much do you understand about your grandfather, Qin Wu? Do you know why he was so certain I wouldn’t dare kill him? Why did he recklessly allow himself to be captured by me? Do you know how many spies he had under his control? And as for my father’s illness, ever since the Wu King’s death, why did my father contract that illness with such incredible timing? Do you think this was all merely coincidence? My father was a Yuanfu expert, how can he succumb so easily to an illness?”

Chu Tianjiao’s words caused Qin Wentian’s brows to furrow. The death of the previous Chu Emperor had something to do with Qin Wu? Qin Wentian shifted his glance to Qin Wu, only to see his grandfather clad in a suit of armor sitting on horseback, looking as though he was never as calm as this before.

“If you’re talking about informant networks, I’m afraid that even my Royal Clan would lose out to Qin Wu.” Chu Tianjiao laughed sarcastically.

“The blood debt you owe shall be repaid in full, regardless of what you say today,” Qin Wentian calmly replied. Even if he discounted the Qin Clan, what about the Emperor Star Academy? The death of Mountain and Zi Jun? To avenge them, Chu Tianjiao had to die.

Chu Tianjiao laughed, “Since I’ve lost, why should I fear death? I’m saying all this not because I want to beg for my life. I, Chu Tianjiao, have never truly admired anyone before in my life. I respected my elder brother, Chu Wuwei, for his intelligence, I respected, Qin Wu, for his ruthless methods. As for the Wu King, I didn’t have the chance to witness his glory before he departed from this world. But today, I admire you Qin Wentian, I admire you completely.”

“You are not as intelligent as Chu Wuwei, nor are your methods as ruthless as Qin Wu. What you have is an undying resoluteness and a heart that never fears defeat. No matter how powerful an obstacle is blocking your way before you, your determination never wavers. This is something that I admired you for, and also something I lacked. Your talent for cultivation is truly monstrous, and I hope you can advance further on the path you’ve chosen. As for the Emperor’s throne, grant it to my elder brother, Chu Wuwei. There’s no one more suitable compared to him.”

Chu Tianjiao spoke slowly. After which, he slammed a palm strike right onto his heart. Blood splattering sounds rang out as his heart was crushed into a pulp, yet there was still a smile on his face. After which, his eyes closed forever as he descended into death.

A talented proud son of Heaven, had chosen to die by suicide.

He lost to the current circumstances and lost to Qin Wentian. To a person like him, defeat was worse than death. He had his own pride and wasn’t willing to beg for his life, nor live by being tortured by others. By committing suicide, at least he would die on his own terms.

The surrounding battles paused. Countless people raised their heads, staring at Chu Tianjiao, involuntarily feeling sadness in their hearts. Was he wrong or was he right? Yet as time had proven, the only ones who were right were the winners that could write history.

Everything ended, Chu Tianjiao had fallen.

Yet the words before his death were extremely thought provoking.

Chu Tianjiao’s death didn’t really cause Qin Wentian to feel pleasure. He only felt slightly more relaxed. After all, he had given Mountain an answer, given the Emperor Star Academy an answer.

The curtains on this war of Chu could finally close as a new chapter began.

Now, Qin Wentian was having a headache. So, who to assume the rulership of Chu? Qin Wu or Chu Wuwei?

And just like what Chu Wuwei had told him before, the one in control of Chu’s future wasn’t Chu Tianjiao, Chu Wuwei nor Qin Wu. It was him, Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian’s position was also the Emperor Star Academy’s position. If he supported Chu Wuwei, the experts of the Emperor Star Academy would naturally forsake Qin Wu. His position, was also the position of the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan and Greencloud Pavilion. These two transcendent powers would settle any backlash from the Nine Mystical Palace.

His position was also Qing`er’s position, the position of a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign.

As the sphere of light dissipated, Chu Tianjiao’s body fell to the ground. Chu Mang flew upwards as he caught hold of his second brother, before bringing the corpse to Chu Wuwei.

Chu Wuwei hugged the body of his brother, as he closed his eyes and sighed. Power was unfeeling. Being born in a royal family was not as luxurious as what others might think.

BOOM!

A body hurled downwards from the skies, slamming ruthlessly onto the ground. This was none other than the Heavenly Dipper Sovereign from the Nine Mystical Palace that fought against Qing`er.

“Cough cough.” Qin Wentian coughed as he inclined his head only to see the graceful figure of Qing`er descending.

Qing`er’s beautiful eyes stared at Qin Wentian, as though asking what she should do next.

“This matter is already concluded. Those from the Nine Mystical Palace can now leave. Go and tell the Nine Mystical Palace’s three factions of power that they are not allowed to step within the boundaries of Chu ever again. If they dare to defy the agreement made earlier, be prepared to face the consequences and suffer the flames of fury of my Ouyang Clan,” Ouyang Kuangsheng icily commanded. He seized the chance to speak before Qin Wentian, he didn’t want Qin Wentian to be too overbearing.

Ouyang knew that with his status, nothing would happen to him. But as for Qin Wentian, who wanted to roam the Grand Xia Empire in the future, and considering Qin Wentian’s current level of power, it wouldn’t be good if he pushed the Nine Mystical Palace too much. Only when he became strong enough in future should Qin Wentian storm the Nine Mystical Palace to get back what he was owned.

If a transcendent power was determined to deal with someone, Qin Wentian’s life in the future would be unbearably tough. At the very least, with him acting the role of the overbearing bully, he would be able to buy some time for Qin Wentian to grow.

“This goes for Greencloud Pavilion, as well. From today onwards, we will terminate all forms of relationship with the Nine Mystical Palace. Tell your leaders if they want to barge into Chu, my Greencloud Pavilion will be the first to take action,” Qian Mengyu’s position was the same as Ouyang Kuangsheng’s, with her words causing those from the Nine Mystical Palace to turn incomparably unsightly.

That earlier Heavenly Dipper Sovereign who was defeated by Qing`er said nothing. He merely waved his hands as he brought the remnants of those from the Nine Mystical Palace away.

Today, the Nine Mystical Palace had truly lost on all grounds. They no longer had the face to come back to Chu.

With the protection of both the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan and the Greencloud Pavilion, the leaders of the Nine Mystical Palace wouldn’t rashly take action for the sake of a deceased Luo Qianqiu. But, with Luo Tianya’s personality, he would surely make a move against Qin Wentian, the murderer of his son.

Soon after the departure of the Nine Mystical Palace, the four blood puppets were beheaded. By then, the situation was fully under control.

Now, the only question was whom should the authority to rule belong to? As well as the matter of future settlement of the grievances and grudges created here today.

“Wentian,” Qin Wu called out. Qin Wentian shifted his glance over to Qin Wu, yet he no longer felt the same emotions as he used to. Looking upon his adopted grandfather, the past feelings for that kindly old man no longer stirred up warm memories in his heart. On the contrary, he felt as though he was looking at a stranger.

“All thanks to you, our Qin Clan was finally avenged. Now, only the Ye Clan is remaining, we should finish them swiftly. Why don’t I take charge first?” Qin Wu smiled, his countenance serene.

However, Qin Wentian lightly shook his head. “Grandpa Qin, it’s already chaotic enough. According to the agreement, I think it’s a better idea for you to pull back your troops outside of the Royal Capital.”

Qin Wentian’s words caused Qin Wu to be stunned, as well as expressions of bewilderment and astonishment to appear on the face of many. Was Qin Wentian hinting to Qin Wu that he should give up on his attempts of securing the rulership?

“Wentian, I’m still worried,” Qin Wu continued, “I, Qin Wu, do not hanker after power or riches. I’m already so old, I don’t ever want my descendants to suffer what I went through again. How about after I stabilise Chu, your father Qin Chuan shall be the one to ascend the throne?”

Qin Wentian froze, as he glanced towards Qin Chuan.

Qin Chuan cast a glance to his father Qin Wu, and then towards Qin Wentian, and his eyes made clear his internal conflict. He then drew in a deep breath, as a gentle smile appeared on his face. “Wentian, I will respect your wishes, just make the decision according to what your heart tells you.”

Qin Wentian nodded, as a radiant smile blossomed on his face. “Thank you, father.”

“May I request to speak privately with general Qin Wu?” At this moment Chu Mang escorted Chu Wuwei towards Qin Wu. Chu Wuwei made a gesture of invitation, signalling to an area not far from there.

Qin Wu frowned, but he still followed Chu Wuwei to the side.

“General Qin Wu, everything should have already been concluded. After I become the Emperor, I will grant several cities to the Qin Clan, as well as bestow upon you a Kingship. As for those that threw in their lot to support you, I vow I will not touch them in revenge. I only hope that they will be able to defend Chu from external threats,” Chu Wuwei stated.

Qin Wu gazed at him, before calmly replying, “What if I disagree?”

“There are some things I don’t wish to make too transparent,” Chu Wuwei just as calmly replied, “I also don’t wish to influence the relationship between you and Qin Wentian. In the Royal Capital, exactly how many people were capable of killing Xiao Lan? Gu He was precisely one of the few that could. Gu He was a protector of my third brother, Chu Tianjiao and was once a follower of the former Emperor, my father. Yet when Xiao Lan had died, Gu He wasn’t by the side of my brother.”

“Not only that, I also knew that Gu He, before he changed his name, was a follower of the Wu King back in his days of glory,” Chu Wuwei slowly continued, leaving the rest unsaid, as his words caused the pupils of Qin Wu to narrow.

Chapter 222: Time is like a Dream

Qin Wu naturally understood what Chu Wuwei was hinting at.

The fury of the Nine Mystical Palace had descended onto the Royal Clan of Chu and the Emperor Star Academy all because of Xiao Lan’s death, and thereby diminished the powers of both parties, getting rid of the Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns from both sides. The only one that stood to profit the most, was undoubtedly Qin Wu.

“General Qin, pull your forces out of the Royal Capital according to our agreement. I have no wish to pursue the grudges and grievances of the past. Just let the hatred of the past generation dissipate like the wind,” Chu Wuwei calmly spoke. Qin Wu stared at Chu Wuwei silently, as a murderous glint flashed in his eyes.

“General Qin, Qin Wentian isn’t that simple-minded. He has already deduced many things, it’s just that he didn’t want to say too much. If you insist on stubbornly clinging to your course, you have to be prepared that he may sever his ties with your Qin Clan. Killing me here now equates to you admitting that back then, the masked man who stabbed Qin Wentian through his heart, was sent there on your orders.”

Chu Wuwei’s gaze sharpened, staring at Qin Wu. That day during the clash between the Royal Clan and Emperor Star Academy, Qin Wentian was almost assassinated. Because of that assassination attempt, the relationship between the Royal Clan and the Emperor Star Academy became like fire and ice. And that was already considering the fact that Qin Wentian didn’t die. If Qin Wentian had died back then, the Emperor Star Academy would definitely have gone mad and stormed the Royal Clan, leading to heavy casualties to the point of almost total annihilation on both sides.

Qin Wu stared back at Chu Wuwei in silence, his countenance ice-cold. After a long time, he smiled and stated, “Fine, fine. I’ve never treated Chu Tianjiao as my opponent, yet I didn’t expect that despite all my plans and preparations, I would still lose to the inconspicuous elder prince that didn’t want to join the fight for power. Chu Wuwei, you’ve won.”

After speaking, Qin Wu turned and walked away.
Qin Wentian followed after Qin Wu, seeing that the private conversation between Qin Wu and Chu Wuwei had ended.

Everything, was finally concluded.
“Relay my orders, prepare to retreat outside the Royal Capital.” Qin Wu returned to where he originally stood, as he commanded in a loud voice. The surrounding troops were all stunned by his decision. Turning their heads to glance at Qin Wentian, they couldn’t help sighing in their hearts before obeying Qin Wu’s orders.

Had Qin Wentian come to a decision?

“Wentian.” Qin Chuan hadn’t departed, staring at the silhouette of his son up in the air.
Qin Wentian descended, landing beside Qin Chuan as he smiled apologetically, “Father, your son is unfilial.”

“Silly child.” Qin Chuan rubbed Qin Wentian on his head. In his eyes, no matter how Qin Wentian acted, he would always be a little kid to him. Qin Wentian was his son, and his pride.

“After our paths separate, I will no longer be able to help you. You have to take care of yourself.” Qin Chuan sighed.

“Don’t worry father, I will frequently return to Sky Harmony to visit you.” Qin Wentian held the hand of his father, giving it a tight squeeze. Regardless of what Qin Wu’s personality might be, Qin Chuan would always be his father.

“Hey little fellow, you’ve grown up.” Qin He and Qin Ye grinned, as they walked over.

Seeing the broken arm of Qin He, Qin Wentian felt an indescribable feeling in his heart. This was the price one had to pay for the vying of power. He wondered if Qin Wu would feel shame for his own actions.
Drawing in a deep breath, Qin Wentian walked forwards to embrace his second and third uncle into a hug. “Second Uncle and Third Uncle, take care of yourselves in the future.”

“Don’t worry about us.” Qin He carefreely smiled, as though the fact that he had a broken arm didn’t bother him.

“When you are roaming the world, remember to keep a lower profile. Be cautious in all things you do,” Qin He instructed.

“Smelly kid, when you have great accomplishments in the future, don’t you dare forget about this third uncle of yours.” Qin Ye laughed loudly, as he heavily patted Qin Wentian on his shoulder.
They had seen Qin Wentian climbing up from a cripple up to the point where his talent had awakened. Now that Qin Wentian reached this step today, they truly felt gratified in their hearts. Qin Wentian was of their Qin Clan, and even though he didn’t give the rulership to them, it wouldn’t affect their feelings of kinship towards him.

The men of Qin Clan, were all men of character.

“Mhm.” Qin Wentian heavily nodded his head.

“Haha, enough from us, there’s still a brat that wishes to talk to you.” Qin He and Qin Ye stepped aside, and following which, Qin Wentian saw a beautiful young woman walking over to him. This person, was none other than his sister, Qin Yao.
“Sister, you are still so enchanting, even when clad in armor.” Qin Wentian grinned.
“Flowery words don’t work on me.” Qin Yao rolled her eyes as she smiled, “What are your plans in the future?”

“I plan to roam the Grand Xia Empire in the near future,” Qin Wentian replied.

“Mhm, considering your talent, your decision is right. Chu is too small for you.” Qin Yao nodded in agreement. “However, doesn’t that mean it would be very difficult for us to see you in the future?”

Thinking of this, a vague hint of sadness could be seen in Qin Yao’s eyes. The two of them had grown up together and were exceptionally close.
“How can this be? How would I bear to stay away from seeing my beautiful sister for long periods of time,” Qin Wentian joked, trying to cover her sadness. Qin Yao understood his intention. Stepping forwards, moving even closer, Qin Yao tiptoed and gave a light kiss on Qin Wentian’s forehead.

After which, Qin Yao ran off, turning her head while giggling, “Smelly brat, remember to come back and visit your sister often in the future.”

Looking at the departing back view of Qin Yao walking away, Qin Wentian heavily nodded his head.

The troops of the Qin Clan gradually all departed. Qin Wu didn’t even say a word of farewell or interacted with Qin Wentian. Maybe he was blaming Qin Wentian, or maybe he was ashamed of all the things he had done. But no matter what, Qin Wentian knew that Qin Chuan, Qin He, Qin Ye and Qin Yao would always be his family.

In order to not affect their familial ties, it would be better to let bygones be bygones.

Just like what Chu Wuwei had said to Qin Wu, Qin Wentian wasn’t that simple-minded. He had already deduced the truth of many things, but choosing to let go of these matters would be better for everyone.
The departure of the Qin Troops, the fall of Chu Tianjiao; Qin Wentian believed that with the capabilities of Chu Wuwei, he would easily be able to control any ensuing consequences. No one was more familiar than Chu Wuwei regarding the various power factions of Chu.
Chu Wuwei walked to the side of Qin Wentian, smiling at him. “Give me some time to settle the aftermath of this war. I’ll treat you to wine when I’m done.”

“Right.” Qin Wentian smiled, as he too, walked away.

Those from the Ouyang Clan and Greencloud Pavilion accompanied Qin Wentian as they left. And as for that ephemeral beauty Qing`er, she had long disappeared from sight. The storm that had been brewing in Chu, was finally over.

Qin Wentian chose to disappear from the public eye, yet pieces of rumors and news regarding him spread like wildfire all around Chu.

Not two years had passed since this young man stepped into the Royal Capital, yet he was capable enough to re-write the history of Chu.

There was no one in Chu that did not know of his name. It was said that he slayed Luo Qianqiu, a genius of the Nine Mystical Palace at the second level of Yuanfu in only ten breaths of time.

It was said that he overwhelmingly destroyed Chu Tianjiao with absolute strength.

It was also said that Qin Wentian, who had the authority of rulership in his hands, had chosen Chu Wuwei rather than the Qin Clan.

Naturally these pieces of rumors and news became more and more exaggerated as time passed, but one thing was for certain; Qin Wentian was the person who decided the rulership of Chu.

A cool breeze of wind gusted over the vast expanse of land that was the Royal Capital. After Chu Wuwei was ordained as the Emperor, he immediately issued an imperial decree stating that because of the actions his father, the previous emperor, had committed, the Qin Clan was wronged and suppressed to the extent that they were forced to rebel. The reasons behind their actions were understandable, no punishment or blame shall be allocated to those that had supported the Qin Clan. Not only that, Qin Wu was bestowed Kingship, taking over the position of the Wu King and granted the administration rights of Sky Harmony City and over ten other cities. The troops under Qin’s command were to return and guard the borders, not to leave without permission ever again.

At the same time, the rebuilding of the Emperor Star Academy commenced, re-establishing their position as the number one cultivation academy in Chu. Chu Wuwei himself was granted the position of a honorary elder by Ren Qianxing and would instruct and guide students from time to time. This caused many to speculate, wasn’t Chu Wuwei a cultivation cripple? How would he be able to guide the students?

After the imperial decree was passed, the Wu King, Qin Wu, swept his gaze over the Royal Capital before leading his troops away. That glance contained a myriad of emotions, too complicated to decipher.

Life and death are determined by destiny, wealth and riches are decreed by the Heavens!

If he knew Qin Wentian would turn out to be so powerful today, he would surely have planned things differently.

Sadly, everything had ended. Chu Wuwei wasn’t Chu Tianjiao and wouldn’t give him another opportunity to mobilise his forces again. In the gamble this time round, he could clearly sense how formidable Chu Wuwei was. In terms of intelligence and strategy, Chu Wuwei was unequalled in Chu.

Qin Wu missed the chance he had to become the Emperor; he would never have the opportunity ever again.

Qin Wu’s heart was filled with regrets, similar to the hearts of those in the Bai Clan.

Bai Qingsong and Autumn Snow, stood outside a luxurious mansion. The once illustrious Ye Clan’s Mansion was now deserted, emanating a cold and cheerless aura.

“The Ye Clan is finished.” After Bai Qingsong destroyed his cultivation, he aged tremendously. With a head filled with white hair, he gazed calmly at the Ye Clan’s Mansion with an indescribable feeling in his heart.

Autumn Snow nodded in agreement. The Ye Clan was finished.

In this gambling bet, the Ye Clan had chosen to side with Chu Tianjiao. Their forces were utterly decimated in the war and after everything was concluded, Chu Wuwei restructured the authority and power in the Royal Capital, causing the Ye Clan to fall from nobility and into destitution.

They had lost everything.

“The affairs of the world are unpredictable,” Bai Qingsong deeply lamented. Who would have thought that the illustrious Ye Clan, second only to the Royal Clan in the past, would have fallen so swiftly? And who would have imagined that the Qin Clan that was in imminent peril back then, would actually become a force that had the power to sweep past everything in Chu?

Also, who would have ever guessed that the young cultivation cripple back then, wouldn’t even require two years to become someone that could determine the fate of Chu.

If he could predict the future, how would he, Bai Qingsong, make the choice he did back then?
“Time, is like a dream…” Bai Qingsong turned as he departed. His countenance turned wizened, his back stooped with age.

Witnessing how drastically her father’s appearance had changed into that of a feeble, old man, Autumn Snow silently wept, tears streaking down her face.

Chapter 223: The Useless Second Young Master

Chu Wuwei quickly settled the remaining aftermath and prioritised the rebuilding of the Emperor Star Academy.

The ultimate winner of this fight for royal authority actually landed in the hands of Chu Wuwei, the weakest out of all the forces that contended for power. From this, one could see how capable Chu Wuwei was, his remarkable achievements causing the citizens of Chu to feel gratified in their hearts.

Over at the Emperor Star Academy, Qin Wentian looked upon the various buildings that were being rebuilt, rising from the ground. The Emperor Star Academy restarted their recruitment for new students, as the previous batch of students returned, gradually regaining their glory of the past.
“I thought I would never see this day come again in my lifetime. Who would have thought that day would come so fast.” Ren Qianxing stood beside Qin Wentian, as hints of happiness could be seen in his eyes. Naturally, he was exceptionally happy to witness the revival of the Emperor Star Academy.

“The Emperor Star Academy will be just like what we were in the past, the number one academy in Chu.” Qin Wentian smiled, as he stared at the prospective new students, their still childish faces reminded him of himself from back then.

“I’ve never doubted Chu Wuwei. He is different from Chu Tianjiao, and so Chu will definitely have a more prosperous future in his hands,” Ren Qianxing mumbled as he continued in a low voice, “Sadly, my adopted father won’t have the chance to witness this. The Nine Mystical Palace… I don’t even know whether my father is alive or dead now. I, Ren Qianxing, am too useless.”

The adopted father in his speech, was naturally referring to the Headmaster of the Emperor Star Academy, Diyi.

“Nothing will happen to the Headmaster. One day, I will storm the Nine Mystical Palace.” Qin Wentian’s gaze turned sharp. If it were not for the support from the Ouyang Clan and Greencloud Pavilion, Qin Wentian knew that with his current power, he would still be helpless to stop the Nine Mystical Palace from doing what they wanted.

“I believe you.” Ren Qianxing smiled. Qin Wentian’s talent was monstrous, yet his character was just.

He once misjudged Luo Tianya, but this time around, he knew his judgement was right.
“Wentian.” A voice drifted over from behind. Mustang, Luo Huan and Fan Le had arrived.

“Teacher, Sister Luo Huan.” Qin Wentian smiled.

“What are your plans in the future?” Mustang looked at Qin Wentian as he asked.

“I’m planning to roam the Grand Xia Empire.” After the storm in Chu had concluded, he wanted to roam the vast world, tempering himself with the experience gained.

“Do you want to bring me along, your lovely sister Luo Huan?” Luo Huan giggled, her personality was as though it had reverted back to how it was in the past, before Mountain’s death.
“Why not? I couldn’t ask for anything more if I had a great beauty like Senior Sister accompanying me on my journey.” Qin Wentian grinned.

“You are getting better and better at sweet-talking.” Luo Huan rolled her eyes, “I’m kidding, even if I tagged along with you, I would only be a burden. I plan to stay here first, and only leave after a period of time.”

“Okay. What about you, Fatty?” Qin Wentian turned to Fan Le.

“Me?” Fan Le squinted his eyes and stated somewhat depressedly, “Initially I wanted to roam the world with you, but the distance between our talents are too far apart. Forget it, I think I’ll stick with our beautiful Senior Sister.”

“…” Qin Wentian stared at the ‘serious’ expression on Fan Le’s face as he went speechless. Even if he wanted to tag along with beautiful girls, he could at least find a better excuse right…?

“Did I say you are welcome to stick to me?” Luo Huan laughed, causing Fan Le’s straight face to turn crestfallen.

“Forget it, I can only suffer and follow him instead.” Fan Le cast a glance at Qin Wentian, as he sighed helplessly, and Qin Wentian didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at Fatty’s antics.
In reality, Fan Le’s talent wasn’t bad at all. Following the events where Qin Wentian saved Mustang and Luo Huan from their imprisonment, he realised that Fan Le had already broken through to Yuanfu. Luo Huan teased Fan Le, asking him whether the reason behind his breakthrough was due to her? Fan Le honestly replied with his customary sweet tongue, saying that even in his dreams, he wanted to save Luo Huan, and thus he ‘accidentally’ broke through to Yuanfu.
Fan Le was the first friend Qin Wentian had made when he stepped into the Royal Capital. Without a doubt, both of them would give their lives for each other. He naturally hoped that Fan Le would be able to roam the world with him. To be honest, other than being a little horny and extremely shameless, Fan Le had no other flaws.

“Would you be interested in practicing cultivation with the Greencloud Pavilion?” At this moment, a silhouette walked over. A slender looking woman with a beautiful countenance and dignified demeanor appeared; this was none other than Qian Mengyu.

Qian Mengyu smiled at Qin Wentian, extending an invitation to him.

Qin Wentian was grateful for all the support he received from the Greencloud Pavilion this time around. He had already forgotten about the unhappy matters that had occurred in the refinement grounds. However, he had no wish to join any transcendent powers this soon and thus, he couldn’t possibly agree and accept Qian Mengyu’s invitation.
“I want to travel on my own for now, roaming the Grand Xia Empire, seeing the world outside. I will decide again in the future as to which of the transcendent powers I want to join.” Qin Wentian smiled.

“Haha, fine. When you wish to join any transcendent powers, you have to remember to consider my Greencloud Pavilion, okay? After all, I’m the first to extend the invitation to you.” Qian Mengyu smiled back. There was no longer any hints of superiority in her tone or actions. She had already considered Qin Wentian as someone who had the same status as her.

“I definitely will.” Qin Wentian laughed as he nodded.

“Since this is the case, I shall bid farewell first. Let’s meet if we have the chance to, in the future.” Qian Mengyu smiled gently, it was time for her to leave as well.

“There will certainly be a chance in the future. At that time don’t pretend you don’t know me, the stray wandering cultivator,” Qin Wentian joked as he laughed.

Qian Mengyu departed, and gazing at her back view, Fan Le lamented, “Why is it always you that has such amazing luck with women?”

Fatty shook his head dispiritedly, leaving the area as though he suffered from some psychological impact, causing Qin Wentian to be speechless.

Some time after the departure of those from the Greencloud Pavilion, Ouyang Kuangsheng also bade his farewell. After all, the reason he came to Chu was to look for Qin Wentian, and now that the matter in the Dark Forest was soon coming to an end, it was about time that he left.
However, he believed that he was definitely fated to meet with Qin Wentian in the future.

……………….

Mo Clan.

Mo Qingcheng had always been monitoring the news from the Royal Capital, and only upon knowing the conclusion did her heart calm down.

She felt really happy in her heart, happy for Qin Wentian. She heard that he easily defeated Luo Qianqiu, who was at the second level of Yuanfu, and also tyrannically suppressed Chu Tianjiao in an overwhelming manner. Such impressive combat prowess caused Mo Qingcheng to be filled with anticipation regarding Qin Wentian’s future.

As Mo Qingcheng was filled with her own worries in monitoring the situation of Chu, old man Mo was worrying about when she would leave to join the Pill Emperor Hall. As for matters regarding Chu, he had no interest in them at all. He had seen too many things when roaming the world, how could he put matters of a small Chu Country in his heart. So what if Qin Wentian was victorious in everything? So what if he his talent was above average? In the end, he achieved what he had achieved due to the efforts of others. What could he accomplish on his own?

Old Mo sat frowning in a pavilion, feeling extremely depressed in his heart. Earlier, Bai Fei came over and told him that if Mo Qingcheng continued delaying her decision, and refused to return with them, she would definitely report this to her teacher.

“Old Mo, you don’t need to be too worried. I think Qingcheng is waiting for Qin Wentian to leave Chu before she would bear to leave. Why not just give her a few more days?” Hua Xiaoyun sat opposite to Old Mo, smiling at him.
“This lass is too outrageous.” Old Mo felt even more infuriated upon hearing Hua Xiaoyun’s words. “Why the hell is she so obsessed with Qin Wentian?”
“Well, Qingcheng is still young after all, and she didn’t really have the opportunity to interact with many people. I’m sure her thinking will change after her stint in the Grand Xia Empire,” Hua Xiaoyun consoled.

“Maybe.” Old man Mo sighed, “Xiaoyun, you should interact more with Qingcheng. Although her personality is a little stubborn, her character is really good. You shouldn’t be too bothered about what happened previously.”

“No problem, how would I be bothered about such a small thing?” Hua Xiaoyun shook his head and laughed. “Old Mo, why don’t I try persuading Qingcheng?”
Old Mo muttered to himself irresolutely, he knew that Hua Xiaoyun was trying to woo Mo Qingcheng. He also hoped that the two of them would end up together but yet, his grand daughter seemed to dislike Hua Xiaoyun.
“Right, you should talk more to her.” Old Mo nodded in agreement.

“I shall leave first, then.” Hua Xiaoyun bid farewell as he turned and walked in the direction of Mo Qingcheng’s courtyard. A cold light flickered in his eyes, unseen.

He received news from his elder brother that the matter in the Dark Forest would soon have a conclusion. This meant that the Pill Emperor’s daughter, Luo He, would soon lead her disciples away. Mo Qingcheng would leave at that time too, this meant that now was the best opportunity for him to make his move.

The attitude of Mo Qingcheng towards him had always been ice-cold, and she even dared to snap at him. That b*tch, if it were not for him, how would she have today? How ridiculous. Acting all high and mighty in front of him? Well, he wanted to see how she could continue acting like this later.

Mo Qingcheng’s courtyard was elegantly designed and located within a quiet area inside the Mo Residence. Upon seeing Hua Xiaoyun approaching, she coldly inquired, “What are you doing here?”

Seeing Mo Qingcheng’s ice-cold attitude, Hua Xiaoyun’s grin grew even wider.
“Miss Mo, no matter what, I’m still the person who recommended you to join the Pill Emperor Hall. And as an esteemed guest of your Mo Clan, even if you don’t like me, is it necessary to treat me like this?” Hua Xiaoyun slowly approached, causing Mo Qingcheng to frown.
Abruptly, Hua Xiaoyun’s silhouette flickered as he appeared in front of Mo Qingcheng. A grayish-colored smoke came out of nowhere, taking Mo Qingcheng by surprise as she involuntarily breathed the smoke in. Her countenance instantly turned ice-cold as she exclaimed, “What are you trying to do?”
As the sound of her voice faded, her expression underwent a change. She felt her whole body turning numb, as her strength faded away. It was a struggle even to stand straight.
She turned pale-white. Staring at Hua Xiaoyun, her eyes cold to the extreme, she asked again. “What are you trying to do?”

Mo Qingcheng realised that her voice was growing weaker and weaker, so faint to the point that she could barely hear herself.

“Hehe.” Hua Xiaoyun’s countenance turned extremely sinister, as he stared lustily at Mo Qingcheng. “You are so gorgeous, what do you think I want to do?”

“You dare?” Mo Qingcheng’s voice became even fainter, as she retreated backwards, each step taking tremendous effort.
“Don’t I dare? Why don’t I dare? What status do I, Hua Xiaoyun, have? Even if I made you mine, in order to preserve your reputation, how would your Mo Clan even dare to object? Hahaha, even if they did object, what can they do to me? And as for the Pill Emperor Hall, so what if they are angered? They wouldn’t dare kill me. I have nothing to lose. On the contrary, I would have gained your sweet chastity.” Hua Xiaoyun smirked evilly. “Since you love to act pure and virtuous, I want to see how good your acting is later on when you’re underneath me. Maybe after the deed is done, you’ll turn into a slut, serving I, this young master, unswervingly.”
The expression on Hua Xiaoyun’s face was extremely wretched. He had torn off his ‘gentleman’ mask completely, revealing his true colors.
“You are so beautiful, babe, how can my heart not be moved? Tsk tsk.” Hua Xiaoyun advanced, his eyes gleamed with an insatiable lust as he stared at the lithe figure of Mo Qingcheng.

Mo Qingcheng had an expression of extreme distress on her face as she whipped out a dagger, staring at Hua Xiaoyun with eyes filled with incomparable rage.

“You want to kill me? Do you have the capability to?” Hua Xiaoyun snickered.

“Father, Mother, Wentian, I’m sorry.” A teardrop fell from Mo Qingcheng’s eye, and with her final words, she plunged the dagger straight into her own heart. Even though she didn’t have sufficient strength, that dagger was a divine weapon and as such, was extremely sharp. A piercing sound rang out, as fresh blood dyed her clean robes red. Tears glimmered in her eyes, causing those who saw her to feel sorrow.

She would never have thought that Hua Xiaoyun would be so despicable. Since that was the case, she could only choose death to protect her chastity.
“ARE YOU CRAZY?” Hua Xiaoyun shrieked, as his countenance turned incomparably ugly. Even he was frightened by Mo Qingcheng’s resoluteness. Mo Qingcheng would rather choose to commit suicide than to be tainted by him. This crazy woman!

Chapter 224: Wrath

As Hua Xiaoyun witnessed the unceasing flow of blood from the area surrounding Mo Qingcheng’s heart, he was truly frightened. This ending was way worse compared to all the other endings he had previously envisioned.

Not only did he not obtain Mo Qingcheng’s body, he had also become her murderer. If that was the case, even though the Mo Clan wouldn’t dare do anything to him, the Pill Emperor Palace would remember this for sure. Especially for the Pill Emperor’s daughter, Luo He, as she was someone that treasured her disciples. If she knew that Mo Qingcheng died because of him, no one could tell what she would do under a pique of anger.

“STOP. Don’t pierce the dagger in any further. I’ll give up, I’ll give up!” Hua Xiaoyun shouted in dread. Mo Qingcheng’s body gently collapsed onto the floor, she had no more strength left. Yet her eyes remained wide open, locked onto Hua Xiaoyun.

“What happened?” A few others heard the commotion and came running over. Upon seeing Mo Qingcheng lying on the blood-soaked floor, their countenances turned as white as a sheet of paper.

“Something happened to little Miss,” a voice called out in panic, akin to a thunder-shaking alarm that resounded throughout the Mo Residence.

An instant later, several figures rushed over. As Mo Tianlin saw what happened to his daughter, his face instantly turned bloodlessly pale.

“Qingcheng.” Mo Tianlin rushed forward, supporting his daughter in his arms. Seeing her father, only now did a hint of a smile appear on Mo Qingcheng’s face. Her lips trembled slightly, as though she was trying to say something, but no words came out.

“WHO DID THIS?” Mo Tianlin’s eyes flickered with a cold and terrifying light, looking in the direction of Hua Xiaoyun.

“What’s going on?” Bai Fei and the disciples from the Pill Emperor Hall had just arrived.

“This was not done by me. I was only joking with Miss Mo, but she thought I was serious.” Hua Xiaoyun tried to sidestep. There was no way he could possibly admit that he had evil designs on Mo Qingcheng.

Bai Fei shot a cold glance at Hua Xiaoyun, before walking over to Mo Qingcheng’s side. Retrieving a bottle of medicinal pills from her robes, she placed a few pills into Mo Qingcheng’s mouth. One of her hands rested on Mo Qingcheng’s chest area, while the other took her pulse.

“Hua Xiaoyun, you despicable asshole.” Bai Fei glared at Hua Xiaoyun in rage, it was as though she knew what Hua Xiaoyun had done. “You were joking with her? Why do you need to use the Energy Dissipating Powder on her if it was a joke? You are worse than a beast.”

Although Bai Fei didn’t really like Mo Qingcheng, she was still a woman after all. How could she not be repulsed and angered when Hua Xiaoyun resorted to this method to deal with Mo Qingcheng?

“How dare you?” Hua Xiaoyun’s countenance turned threatening, as his scheme was exposed by Bai Fei. After a moment, he regained control and stated with icy calm, “Do you know who you are talking to?”

“You incompetent degenerate. Who do you think you are? If not for your elder brother, you wouldn’t even have the qualifications to talk to me.” Bai Fei was triggered. As a disciple of Luo He, she had a pretty high standing. How could she tolerate Hua Xiaoyun’s arrogance.

Hua Xiaoyun turned red from anger as his countenance became increasingly malevolent. Glaring at Bai Fei, he silently exclaimed in his heart, “Filthy bitch, I’ll make you taste what hell is like if you ever end up in my hands.”

Yet, he didn’t dare to speak out any of his thoughts. Bai Fei wasn’t a good character to make an enemy out of.

“Yan Qi, immediately go and inform master. I’m afraid Mo Qingcheng’s situation is critical,” Bai Fei instructed. Yan Qi nodded as he quickly dashed away.

A gentle glow emanated from Bai Fei, and she directed the glow to envelop Mo Qingcheng. After which, warm currents of healing were channelled into Mo Qingcheng, trying to minimise her pain and stop the bleeding. Yet, Bai Fei didn’t dare to move the dagger embedded in her chest.

Mo Tianlin stood at the side, shaking with nervousness. The hatred in his eyes when he stared at Hua Xiaoyun was a testament of how he wanted nothing more than to dismember his corpse into a million pieces.

Old Mo also arrived, his countenance extremely ugly to behold. He already knew of what had happened.

“Old Mo, I apologise. I was just joking with Qingcheng, I’ll compensate your Mo Clan for this.” Hua Xiaoyun hurriedly explained, his countenance wavering as he saw how angry Old Mo was.

He had already seen how insane Mo Qingcheng could be. What if this old man really went crazy and killed him here and now? It would be too late for Hua Xiaoyun, even if his elder brother annihilated the entire Mo Clan to accompany him with their deaths. He could only try to mitigate the anger of Old Mo for now.

“I hope young master Hua will stay here in our Mo Clan for now,” Old Mo icily stated, suppressing the flames of fury boiling in his heart. It was obvious that he made the wrong judgement. Yet after considering Hua Xiaoyun’s background, he could only tolerate this for now.

“Don’t worry, I will stay here till this matter is concluded.” Hua Xiaoyun swallowed his words and replied, it was unknown what he was thinking about.

“FATHER, KILL HIM!” Mo Tianlin roared in rage, causing Hua Xiaoyun to stiffen. His countenance turned sinister as he replied, “It was merely a joke. I believe nothing will happen to Miss Mo, you better think clearly before you speak.”

“Shut your mouth.” Old Mo glowered at Mo Tianlin.

Kill? If Hua Xiaoyun died in the Mo Clan, everyone in the clan would be annihilated and die with him.

Now he could only pray for Mo Qingcheng’s safety.

The tranquil atmosphere of Mo Qingcheng’s courtyard was disrupted, as an intense feeling of nervousness permeated the air. News of what happened to Mo Qingcheng was soon discovered by those close to the Mo Clan.

Bai Fei tried her best to preserve Mo Qingcheng’s life. After all, Mo Qingcheng was the disciple that her Master had favored above all others. If she didn’t give it her all now, she would surely be blamed by her Master later on. Fortunately, after her efforts, Mo Qingcheng’s condition finally stabilised.

Now, all that was left to do, was to wait for the arrival of her Master.

…………
At this moment, Qin Wentian was at the Bamboo Lodge, standing in front of the flowing creek. A tender smile involuntarily appeared on his face whenever he thought of Mo Qingcheng.

He wondered, what was she doing now?

Thinking back to that night when Mo Qingcheng wanted to stay over, Qin Wentian felt warmth blossoming in his heart. This silly girl had already decided to give her heart to him. He heard that she hadn’t left for the Pill Emperor Hall yet, it must be because she was waiting for him, to meet him one last time before she could bear to depart.

“Pill Emperor Hall,” Qin Wentian murmured.

At this moment, sounds of movement could be heard behind him. Turning, a bewildered expression appeared on his face as he realised that it was Nolan. Why would she be here to look for him?

Not only that, her countenance was extremely unsightly, as though something terrible had just occurred.

“Qin Wentian, something happened to Qingcheng,” Nolan cried, causing Qin Wentian to feel as though a rock had dropped inside his heart. He instantly dashed over.

“What happened to Qingcheng?” Qin Wentian urgently questioned.

“That beast, Hua Xiaoyun, I heard that he had evil designs on Qingcheng. That silly girl tried to commit suicide after that and is still currently unconscious. I tried to go to her, but the Mo Clan is currently forbidding all outsiders from entering the Mo Residence.” Nolan’s eyes were red with tears, her relationship with Mo Qingcheng was as close as real sisters, yet now she didn’t know if Qingcheng would live or die. Naturally, she would be upset.

Buzz. Qin Wentian’s mind shook from the impact of Nolan’s words, his countenance became exceedingly terrifying to behold. An overwhelming intent of coldness exuded from him, causing Nolan to be so frightened that she involuntarily retreated backwards without pause.

“Qingcheng.” Qin Wentian’s mind was in turmoil. He soared up through the skies as a pair of demonic Garuda Wings appeared on his back. The demonic Qi that emanated forth from his body was so thick that Nolan couldn’t even breath. With the speed of a raging hurricane, Qin Wentian transformed into a black ray of light as he shot off into the distance.

“Hua Xiaoyun.” A voice filled with a terrible, terrible wrath and killing intent could be heard echoing in the air. No words were sufficient to describe the ice-cold rage Qin Wentian was feeling now, along with his fear and worry.

This feeling was akin to back then, when Mo Qingcheng blocked a blow on his behalf. He had never felt this afraid before.

Qin Wentian’s speed reached an unprecedented level as he zoomed like lightning towards the Mo Clan. Every moment that passed felt like agony to him, each second felt as long as an eternity. Finally, he saw the Mo Residence in the distance.

Not far away from Qin Wentian, there was also someone flying over. However, the speed of that person was even faster compared to the crazed Qin Wentian. Her eyes were filled with endless depths as she swept a glance at him, as though with just a single look, she would be able to uncover all of Qin Wentian’s secrets.

She had an elegant bearing, exuding the aura of nobility and a terrifying presence. She was shrouded in a bright glow as she transformed into a beam of light, shooting straight into the Mo Residence. The guards outside didn’t block her because… her speed was so quick to the extent that no one could even see her shadow.
As the guards of the Mo Clan saw Qin Wentian descending from the skies, several of them soared up into the air to stop him. “Outsiders are all forbidden entr…”

“Scram.” Even before they completed their sentence, the Demonic Astral Energy in Qin Wentian’s body surged as it exploded forth, manifesting into countless demonic swords as they slashed towards the guards. Those guards instantly dodged to the side, but in that split second lapse in their attention, Qin Wentian vanished from view, and had already entered into the Mo Residence.

Qin Wentian soon located Qingcheng’s courtyard. Flying over, his body involuntarily trembling as he saw the white robes of Qingcheng dyed red in her blood. Seeing her wan countenance, he felt as though countless knives were stabbing his heart.

“Don’t disturb my master,” Bai Fei coldly stated. Only now did Qin Wentian realise that the woman he saw earlier was planning to administer medical treatment to Mo Qingcheng.

“Bai Fei, we are going in.” A gentle glow shrouded Mo Qingcheng’s body as that woman from earlier carried her, entering the Mo Qingcheng’s room alongside with Bai Fei and the rest of the Emperor Pill Hall’s disciples.

Qin Wentian dared not go in, for fear of causing a disturbance. He could only pray that Mo Qingcheng would be okay.

“What are you doing here?” Old Mo frowned when he saw the sudden appearance of Qin Wentian. However, Qin Wentian didn’t reply. Instead, his glance shifted towards Hua Xiaoyun, who was standing behind Old Mo. A sky-high killing intent erupted forth as the coldness in his eyes grew in intensity.

Boom. Qin Wentian moved, advancing forwards with measured steps towards Hua Xiaoyun. Old Mo’s frown deepened as he moved to block Qin Wentian’s path.

Qin Wentian stared at Old Mo, his finger shaking with incredulous disbelief as he pointed it towards Hua Xiaoyun. “This beast caused Qingcheng to end up in this state. You didn’t kill him, but choose to block me instead?”

“What do the matters of my Mo Clan got to do with you?” Old Mo snorted. Qin Wentian’s behaviour was way too impudent.

“Well spoken. Indeed, what do the matters of the Mo Clan have to do with me? I couldn’t give a damn. But now, Qingcheng is the one who was injured.” The coldness in Qin Wentian’s voice intensified to its limits. Taking another step forwards, he growled. “Old bastard, get the fuck out of my way.”