The Legend of Futian - Chapter 375

Chapter 375: A Person Who Can Change the World

 

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

After Donghuang the Great and Emperor Yeqing united the Divine Prefecture, many people began to follow their trail. A lot of people knew that Donghuang the Great and Emperor Yeqing spent some time in the Eastern Barren Territory during their upbringing, which was why so many wanted to step into the Eastern Barren Territory. However, the two emperors put out a ban stating that non-native Sages were not allowed to enter the Eastern Barren Territory.

They had united the Divine Prefecture and were peerless existences. Who would dare to challenge the ban? Even to this day, there were many who didn’t quite understand the reason for the emperors’ ban. Despite this, there still many people who followed their footsteps in those days. Naturally, they all knew about Sky Mountain, but no one was ever able to reach the top, especially Nobles.

Last year, however, the people heard that bells rang out from Sky Mountain. Powerful cultivators from all over the Eastern Barren Territory gathered to climb the mountain, as there was a chance they might find relics left by the two emperors on the mountain. On the Responding Dragon, the two people leading the group were clad in silver. Looking at Sky Mountain, one of them spoke, “I heard that many people made attempts here. No one succeeded?”

“That’s correct. No one was successful and after time everyone simply gave up. The number of people coming to the Eastern Barren Territory also greatly decreased. I speculate that the emperors’ wills have assimilated into Sky Mountain and only Sages have a chance of withstanding the power, making it possible for them to make it onto the mountain. However, because of the ban, Sages can’t enter the territory and no one dares to sneak in. No one knows for sure whether or not the will of Donghuang the Great can oversee everything happening on the Sky Mountain,” explained a Noble standing beside the youth. He was more knowledgeable in events from all those years ago.

“Did the two emperors actually leave anything behind on Sky Mountain?” The youth was getting curious. Almost everyone in the world was curious about everything regarding the two emperors. They were true legends.

“Who knows. But since the bells rang, there might actually be something.”

“You guys came quick.” The voice came from afar. A flame-like red light was suddenly emitted from the skies, melting all the falling snow. A group of shining figures descended from above. The light was blinding, just like the sun.

It was a large Sun Bird, the Three-legged Golden Raven. Its body was engulfed in flames and its eyes filled with a wild look. On the raven’s back was what seemed like a sun carriage. On the two sides of the carriage stood many powerful cultivators, protecting the person seated in between. Just like the previous group, it was definitely a majestic sight.

All this commotion… Everyone standing at the foot of Sky Mountain were in shock. That was two powerful groups in a row. With such eye-catching entrances, they didn’t seem like any powers of the Eastern Barren Territory. They were much more dazzling. With a pounding in their chests, many speculated, could they be outsiders? How many years has it been since the last time an outsider set foot in the Eastern Barren Territory?

“Let me give it a try,” said the youth in the silver. Without sparing a glance at the person who had previously spoken, he headed straight for Sky Mountain. Many youths beside him also stepped up to join him. They were all cultivators in the Arcana Plane. Nobody above the Noble Plane was allowed on Sky Mountain. They were all very clear on this o rule.

Youths from the carriage pulled by the Three-legged Golden Raven also made their way toward Sky Mountain. The Responding Dragon and the Three-legged Golden Raven stopped in the skies, attracting a lot of attention. The happenings of the next few days had the audience at the foot of the mountain feeling unsettled.

In the next few days, people continued to arrive at Sky Mountain. Some people came in a flying battleship. This ship was quite intimidating. It flew in the skies and was carried by the winds. Obviously, it was an extremely powerful ritual implement used for flight. However, the people of the Eastern Barren Territory had never seen or even heard of anything like it. Same as the other groups, this ship carried many powerful cultivators. Among them, were a few beauties. They had long, slim legs, beautiful, pale skin, and exquisite features. They also made their way onto Sky Mountain. There were also cultivators that arrived mounting large demon beasts. Their demonic auras filled the skies and frightened those at the foot of the mountain.

More and more cultivators gathered. Even those from the Qianqiu Temple were feeling unsettled. The huge war of the Eastern Barren Territory could break out at any moment. Nobody would have expected for outside powers to arrive at Sky Mountain because of the bells at a time like this.

From what they knew, the Eastern Barren Territory hadn’t had these many outside visitors in many years now. After all, people aimed to reach high places. An extremely small percentage of those who left were ever willing to return. Had it not been from the relics of Sky Mountain left by the two emperors, the resource-lacking Eastern Barren

Territory really didn’t hold much appeal to the outside world. As the news of Sky Mountain spread, the Western Region was stirred up. Then, it continued to spread all throughout the Eastern Barren Territory.

On Book Mountain, at the Cottage, Ye Futian was the first to get the news, with the exception of those who set camp at the foot of Sky Mountain. As soon as those cultivators set foot on Sky Mountain, he knew. The Black Wind Eagle was still cultivating on the mountain.

“Teacher, outsiders of the Eastern Barren Territory have arrived at Sky Mountain.” In the back mountains, Ye Futian spoke to Mr. Du who was drinking while seated on a cliff.

“I know,” the elder answered as he stared into the distance. He never expected that the bells of Sky Mountain would not only stir-up the Eastern Barren Territory but also pique the interest of the outside world. Was this a good thing or a bad thing? He was very clear. Ever since the two emperors established the ban, there had been little to no contact between the Eastern Barren Territory and the outside world. Now, the territory had once again attracted the attention of the outside world. This was a big change.

“Come sit,” said Mr. Du. Ye Futian nodded and sat down beside him. Mr. Du didn’t seem like he was in the best mood.

“Do you know why there were only seven disciples in the Cottage before you?” Mr. Du asked suddenly. Ye Futian shook his head. Although this old man was unlikeable at times, there was no doubting his teaching abilities. It was evident based on his own thoughts after these days of cultivation and also through the abilities of First Senior Brother and Second Senior Sister.

“Because I’m lazy. Humans are the most complicated. Not even the disciples that you have taught yourself will agree with everything you teach them. Especially as time goes on, it is so easy to throw away things you used to feel so strongly about. I’m just one person, there’s only so much I can do. How can I influence many? All I can hope for is that the disciples I teach can influence even more people in the future.” As he spoke, he took another drink of wine. This is the first time Ye Futian had seen him like this and so he spoke, “I heard from First Senior Brother that you had your own dreams. That must be your reason for starting the Cottage. What are your dreams?”

“What dreams could a person like me possibly have?” Mr. Du shook his head and continued,

“Do you know why Donghuang the Great and Emperor Yeqing gave orders for martial arts schools to be set up all around the world?”

“To help martial arts thrive,” Ye Futian answered. This was what it said in the history books.

“300 some years ago, the Divine Prefecture was in complete chaos. There were countless strong powers and each of them controlled a different location. Or they started family clans, some tried to develop their own religion. These people were their own masters, but was the existence of these powers a good or bad thing for the people,” questioned Mr. Du.

Ye Futian didn’t reply. He simply sat and listened. “Of course, there was nothing wrong with families and clans. However, when you had something they wanted or if you became a threat to their interests, somethings became inevitable. For example, why did the Qin Dynasty want to take down the Cottage?”

Naturally, Ye Futian understood why. The Cottage was strong and powerful which the Qin Dynasty felt was a threat. That was why they were so set on destroying the Cottage.

Mr. Du continued, “In the vast lands of the Divine Prefecture, formidable beings that could greatly affect us were born. When they appear, you would be able to imagine things you’ve never been in contact with before. Take the many cultivators who arrived in the mountains today for example. What would happen if they knew that someone had made it to the top of Sky Mountain and received the relics of the two emperors?”

Ye Futian looked at his teacher. The elder still had his eyes focused ahead. He didn’t know if there was a hidden meaning behind what Mr. Du said, but Ye Futian understood.

When these formidable beings appeared, they would most certainly gain the support of the best of the best and be able to receive the best resources. Nobody would be able to restrict them from doing anything they wanted. This was something both the teacher and Second Senior Sister had reminded him twice of. It was the same logic as a person with a weapon will produce the killing thoughts. Wasn’t that exactly what Emperor Luo did to him all those years ago?

“The Divine Prefecture has always been run this way. It hasn’t changed in millions of years. It’s the same even today. Even so, there are always some who have remained untouched by the dirty ways of the world despite the hardships they have been through and instead; they dream of changing the world. And that is how the two emperors of the Divine Prefecture were born.” The elder looked serious. His tone was filled with admiration and respect. “How could someone become a leader of the world without having the people of the world at heart. That is why martial arts schools were established. It was to try to give everyone in the Divine Prefecture a fair chance.”

“However, it’s not that easy, changing the world. Even for the emperors. It would be difficult to simply change the Eastern Barren Territory, so forget about the Divine Prefecture.” The elder seemed to be laughing at himself. It was then that Ye Futian withdrew his playful attitude and became serious. He was now also filled with admiration and respect.

So, this was the teacher’s dream. Wanting to change the world. It sounded like a laughable thing, but at the same time, it was sad.

“So many people in history have wanted to change the world. However, when they reached a certain status, their mindset changes. If you were the College Chief, would you want the other powers of the Eastern Barren Territory to overpower the College?” The elder continued, “So, Futian, sooner or later, you’ll step out of the Eastern Barren Territory and you’ll witness crueler things. You’ll see the black and whites of the world. I hope that no matter what you experience, you’ll stay true to yourself and remember your beginnings. If one day, you can become a person who influences the world, even if it’s nothing bid, never forget your initial intentions. Never became the type of person you once despised.”

“I understand,” nodded Ye Futian.

“Alright, go cultivate,” said the elder.

Ye Futian lifted his head slightly to look at the older male with a smile. “Teacher, after all that, I see you in a whole new light.” “Scram,” the elder gave him a glare.

“And there goes your good image again.” Ye Futian sighed and turned to leave. He would place the elder’s words deep in his heart. Even if he couldn’t become a person who could affect the world in the future, he would most definitely not become a person who did bad things.

Chapter 376: Descend Upon Book Mountain

 

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

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At the foot of Sky Mountain, it was a beautiful sight with dragons, Golden Ravens, and floating warships. Many more people were attracted to Sky Mountain. They wanted to see the strong cultivators who’d come from beyond the Eastern Barren Territory.

The extraordinary youths descended from the mountain those days to return to their camps. They couldn’t climb Sky Mountain. Countless eyes focused on the beautiful figures in the sky. Even they couldn’t climb Sky Mountain?

“Has anyone climbed Sky Mountain since the bell rang last year?” a handsome youth on a dragon asked while looking down.

Many people below him met his eyes and shook their heads.

The Arhat’s eyes flashed. The pressure of Sky Mountain increased after the last year. It was normal to be unable to climb the mountain no matter how strong you were.

“Yes,” someone said at that time. A figure in a gold robe walked out of the robe. Seeing him, many people were confused. It was Qin Yu of the Qin Dynasty. Shouldn’t he be preparing the battle with the College? Why was he here?

“I am Qin Yu from the Eastern Barren Territory’s Qin Dynasty. Greetings,” he said, soaring into the sky.

“Who?” The youth did not greet him back. Qin Yu had extraordinary temperament and cultivation, but he didn’t care. He wanted to know who could reach the top of Sky Mountain.

The sharp gazes of people of other forces landed on Qin Yu. They wanted to know too.

“A junior of mine reached the peak last year,” Qin Yu said.

“Where is he? What’s at the peak of Sky Mountain?” a fiery youth from the Golden Raven asked. Fire intent burned in his eyes. This was because of the technique he cultivated. He was so powerful that it showed in his movements.

“She is in my clan. The wills of the two emperors are at the peak. They’d left a famous piece called Ukiyo,” Qin Yu. Hua Qingqing had admitted to stepping onto Sky Mountain. She wouldn’t lie.

“Ukiyo.” Everyone’s eyes flashed. Ukiyo was one of the top ten pieces. It was said that there would be no law with it. Apparently, when Donghuang the Great played it at his peak, he froze all the laws and time. Was it here again?

“If you dare lie, you will pay for the consequences. Where is she? I shall go now,” the fiery youth said.

“I would like to see as well,” a beautiful girl on a floating warship said.

All strong cultivators were intrigued. They wanted to go forward and fight for the chance for Ukiyo.

“Everyone, my junior has limited cultivation,” Qin Yu said, putting his hands together. “She heard Ukiyo, but only heard it. She couldn’t play it and wasn’t able to learn it. She can’t perform it.”

At this, everyone grew disappointed, but it was normal. As one of the top ten pieces, it couldn’t be easy to get. However, if she could reach the top of Sky Mountain, she must be impressive.

“In that case, bring her here,” the youth said. Qin Yu nodded. He came to Sky Mountain because he’d heard this news. If he could get connections with these people from outside the Eastern Barren Territory, the Cottage would be nothing. He guessed that these people who’d crossed such miles were probably at the Sage Plane.

The hearts of the people below trembled when they heard this. They couldn’t believe that someone had actually climbed Sky Mountain and heard Ukiyo.

The Arhat’s heart was clear. He knew who Qin Yu was talking about. When he was resting on Sky Mountain, Ye Futian’s group had come. Hua Qingqing of the Donghua Clan had been close behind Ye Futian and Yu Sheng. Qin Yu meant that Hua Qingqing had stepped onto the peak. If she reached it, then why did Ye Futian descend unharmed? This was interesting.

“Greetings, Crown Prince.” Thinking of this, the Arhat descended and greeted Qin Yu.

Qin Yu looked at him, confused. Why was the Qianqiu Temple talking to him?

“Are you speaking of Hua Qingqing of the Donghua Clan?” the Arhat asked.

“Yes.” Qin Yu nodded. Since he said it, he wouldn’t hide it. He hoped Hua Qingqing could take these people up.

The Arhat smiled. “If that’s true, I know someone else who also reached the peak. Perhaps Hua Qingqing never told you.”

Qin Yu furrowed his brow. “Speak.”

“When I climbed Sky Mountain, I had seen Hua Qingqing,” the Arhat said. “She was chasing after Ye Futian—perhaps because Ye Futian had killed the royal grandson of the Qin Dynasty.” Hearing this, Qin Yu’s expression turned ugly. This was a thorn in his heart.

“If Hua Qingqing reached the peak, she must have caught up to Ye Futian. Why are they both alive now? Ye Futian had been gravely injured at that time and couldn’t fight back,” the Arhat continued.

Hearing this, Qin Yu instantly understood what the Arhat was hinting at. His features twisted. Hua Qingqing hadn’t mentioned this. She only told her mother, Lady Yuxiao, that she reached the top but wouldn’t say anything else. Because of her status, no one asked further.

But now, he had to think more.

“Crown Prince, do you know about the bells after Ye Futian descended?” the Arhat asked. Qin Yu nodded. Someone had naturally reported this to him. The noble sent to kill Ye Futian had been killed instead. It was very ironic.

“If Ye Futian stepped onto Sky Mountain, do you think it would be a coincidence?” The Arhat was getting closer to the truth.

“You mean that Ye Futian received the relic on the mountain?” Qin Yu’s eyes were so sharp. The Arhat smiled without replying.

“Who is Ye Futian?” the strong cultivator on the dragon asked.

“The Cottage is the most powerful force in the Eastern Barren Territory,” the Arhat said, bowing. “Their disciples are extremely talented and no one in the Eastern Barren Territory can rival them. Ye Futian is the youngest disciple. He is monstrously talented. To him, the relic would be easy to take. If anyone of the younger generation can take it, it must be him.”

The Arhat praised Ye Futian generously. He knew the Buddhist law and understood a human’s heart. These people from outside the Eastern Barren Territory had come with such a spectacle. They must have a special status. With their arrogance and special identities, they wouldn’t think that they were below someone from the Eastern Barren Territory. Of course, he couldn’t say that. It would be like looking for death. He just bragged about Ye Futian to complement it.

“Really?” the youth on the three-foot Golden Raven replied coolly, as expected. His eyes seemed to have sacred fire. Was there somewhere like the Cottage in the Eastern Barren Territory?

“Where is the Cottage? Take us there,” the strong cultivator on the floating warship said.

“Of course,” the Arhat said with his hands in prayer.

“Please,” the person said. The Arhat’s body flashed and stepped onto the floating warship. The woman there was very tall. Her long legs seemed to take up more than half of her body. She was sexy and beautiful. The Arhat lowered his head, hands together. His Buddhist heart couldn’t be swayed. The other girls had extraordinary looks too. They were obviously above average figures.

Everyone turned around, ready to set off. Since Ye Futian could get the relic, they would go personally. Otherwise, he should come by himself.

“Take the Hua Qingqing that you spoke of before to Sky Mountain to wait here,” the strong cultivator on the dragon said to Qin Yu. His attitude was arrogant but Qin Yu didn’t lose his temper.

He nodded and said, “Yes.” As he spoke, he glanced at the Arhat. It seemed that the Qianqiu Temple could be an ally too. The Arhat’s actions weren’t too friendly to Ye Futian.

The floating warship shot forward like lightning. Dragons soared, spreading their wings and covering the sun. The sun god’s bird screamed… The many strong cultivators set off at once to the Book Mountain, the divine capital in the center of the Eastern Barren Territory.

“This…” Many people below were shocked. They’d thought that the Qin Dynasty and Cottage would erupt into battle. They didn’t expect that an outside force would arrive and didn’t know what would happen if they went to Book Mountain. And Ye Futian had reached the peak of Sky Mountain, receiving the two emperors’ relic? With the Cottage’s pride, they wouldn’t hand it over even if Ye Futian really had it.

The College, Cottage, and Moon Clan were all on Book Mountain. Every day was lively with all disciples working hard on cultivating in preparation for sudden changes.

Now, clouds rolled over the empty sky above Book Mountain. Many people looked up to see a horrible dragon rush down from the sky. At the same time, a huge beautiful warship appeared overhead.

Next, dazzling flames rose up in the sky. The Golden Raven had come with the sun chariot. Gradually, other strong cultivators arrived with demons and rushed down. Seeing this shocking scene, all hearts of the disciples trembled. What was happening?

This was such a powerful spectacle. They’d heard that foreign strong cultivators had arrived at Sky Mountain, but why were they here at Book Mountain?

May figures rose up. Countless mountain elders and strong cultivators of the Sword Saint Mountain and Moon Clan soared. They stared at the comers. Even the College’s headmaster looked up with furrowed brows.

They aren’t weak, the strong cultivators who went up to the sky thought. They didn’t mind though. If not for Donghuang the Great’s law, the entire Eastern Barren Territory would be ruled as one.

The Cottage also looked up. Zhuge Hui’s eyes flashed coldly. Where were these people from? They were so impolite.

“Where are you going?” Mr. Du called just as Zhuge Hui was about to soar into the air.

“Teacher, I want to go see,” she replied.

“Stay obediently,” Mr. Du said, giving her a look.

“Oh.” Zhuge Hui was sad, but she still obeyed. She naturally understood her teacher, but she didn’t care. After all, she had been young when she came out back then!

Chapter 377: Low-class Clan

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Zhu Qing stared at the newcomers and asked, “What are you here at the College for?”

The strong cultivator in the air looked at her. The three-footed Golden Raven pulled the sun chariot. The youth who seemed to be bathed in fire said, “Is this the most powerful sorcery paradise of the Eastern Barren Territory?”

He was from the center of the Barren State. The Eastern Barren Territory was only a small portion of the boundless Barren State. Because of Donghuang the Great’s law, it became isolated from the rest of the state. Without the arrival of Saint strong cultivators, it naturally fell from glory. Even if there were extraordinary figures, they would leave and never wish to return.

The Barren State was boundless and had countless strong forces. He was from one of them—the Sacred Fire Sect of the Barren State. The others with him had come from super forces as well. Otherwise, they wouldn’t cross the world to come here.

“This is the College of the Eastern Barren Territory,” Mountain Elder Zong Xu said, answering him.

“Is Ye Futian here?” the beautiful girl on the warship asked.

“Why are you looking for him?” A handsome and charismatic figure soared into the air. Clad in white, he looked like a scholar but had a sharp aura. It was Gu Dongliu.

“We heard that Ye Futian reached the peak of Sky Mountain last year and received the two emperors’ relic,” the girl said in a cool and gentle voice. “We wish to see him.”

“Who said that?” Gu Dongliu asked coolly. He knew that his junior had made it, but he didn’t know what he’d received. He didn’t ask either. It was easy to cause trouble about this. The fewer people who knew about it, the better. Now that these outsiders knew about it, it was clear that someone had told them.

No matter if Ye Futian really had the relic, the person who told them had ulterior motives. The woman didn’t reply. The Arhat stepped down the warship.

“Where is Ye Futian?” the strong cultivator on the dragon directed his question below him, ignoring Gu Dongliu’s interrogation. His voice shook the sky. They didn’t have time for this nonsense.

Many people were furious. They were so rude.

Another figure rose up from the Cottage. It was Ye Futian. He looked at them, confused. Did Hua Qingqing tell? If it was her, why would she jump down the mountain instead of attacking him?

“Why are you looking for me?” Ye Futian asked.

“Yes,” Ye Futian admitted. The College disciples stared. No one knew that Ye Futian had reached the peak last year.

“What did you receive?” the man asked again.

“The two emperors left a melody at the peak. I listened to it, cultivated for a bit, and then descended,” Ye Futian answered.

“Is it Ukiyo that they left behind?” As expected, Ye Futian’s words matched Qin Yu’s. The peak really did contain Ukiyo.

“I do not know the name. The melody is very difficult and impossible to see its mystery,” Ye Futian replied. Ukiyo indeed was very hard to cultivate. It was logical that he couldn’t see its mystery. It would be strange if he could.

The Cottage thought of the melody that had rung out at the end of last year. They knew that Ye Futian had learned it. Of course, they wouldn’t betray him.

“Are you done asking?” Gu Dongliu’s eyes were sharp. He glanced at the intruders. They’d landed directly on Book Mountain, looking down on them and interrogating Ye Futian. He was pissed.

Many people in the air looked at Gu Dongliu with arched eyebrows. Book Mountain was very proud and they seemed offended by them.

“If you’re done, please leave,” Gu Dongliu said. He was telling the guests to leave. Of course, these people weren’t guests.

“So arrogant.” Someone on a demon smiled thinly. “Come with us,” he said to Ye Futian.

The people on Book Mountain were angry. Arrogant? Who was the arrogant one? And they’d just told Ye Futian to go with them. That was so rude.

“You all came so impolitely and landed directly over Book Mountain. Now you are taking a disciple of the College away and you want me to be submissive? Aren’t you crossing the line?” Mountain Elder Zong Xu said coolly. Ye Futian was from the Cottage, but he also belonged to the College.

“Shouldn’t a low-class clan be like that?” a cold elder from a dragon said harshly. In the cultivation world, the strong cultivators were the highest class. Since they were here, the low-class clans should receive them submissively. This was the rule of their world. Did the Eastern Barren Territory not even know this because of their isolation?

All strong cultivators in the air thought this was natural. Why did they have to explain it?

The College disciples were furious. The words were so ugly, but they knew. Even in the Eastern Barren Territory, this implied rule existed. This was the cultivation world.

The people of the College were in an uproar. They were so insulted.

Ye Futian stood in the air with a calm expression. However, he was troubled inside. His teacher had been telling him a few days ago that it was logical for the malpractices of the most powerful clans. It was a lot to ask the strong to respect the weak. If these people wanted him to go, he had to go.

They were more respectful than Emperor Luo too. After all, he was just a small figure to these people now. If he was insignificant, their attitude would be like Emperor Luo.

“Low-class clan?” Gu Dongliu uttered coldly. He was from the Cottage. The Cottage couldn’t be insulted. He wouldn’t let them take his junior away.

Gu Dongliu walked forward, an invisible current flowing through him. “I am Gu Dongliu, first-tier Noble Plane. Please.”

The strong cultivators in the air were confused. Was he challenging them? It was interesting to be challenged by a low-class clan in the Eastern Barren Territory.

The handsome youth on the dragon looked to the elder who’d spoken. The elder stepped out immediately. He was the one who had called them a low-class clan. His aura abounded and was extremely powerful. When he stood in the air, the entire space seemed to become heavy. Everyone in the College felt horrible pressure fall upon them, almost flattening them.

A few mountain elders stepped out with their own currents. They blocked the might in the air so it wouldn’t reach the ground. The strong cultivators in the air watched calmly.

“Hmph,” the elder huffed. He reached out and clenched a fist before Gu Dongliu. Instantly, a terrible pressure was born. The Spiritual Qi in the world shook as if a huge palm was created and pushed to Gu Dongliu.

The current across Gu Dongliu turned more terrible. His eyes shone with sorcery light and flashed like lightning to the surroundings. The palm instantly scattered into Spiritual Qi.

“The haven of sorcery in the Eastern Barren Territory?” The elder walked forward. The sky and earth were so heavy. He raised a hand and there was thunder. Earth Spiritual Qi went wild in the air, pressing down to Gu Dongliu so he couldn’t move. He raised a hand and punched the air. Loud explosions sounded. Everyone could see a fist intent cut through the air, sweeping about as if it could destroy everything.

Wind whistled with this punch. It swept with powerful force towards Gu Dongliu.

Boom! Ancient words flowed around Gu Dongliu, forming nine words, meaning “may the presiders over warriors be my vanguard.”

Every ancient word transformed into a dazzling and powerful light. The boundless fist intent cut through the sky like a fist from heaven. It could probably destroy everything.

Under this, Gu Dongliu seemed so small and would be pulverized under the fist. However, he stood there without moving. When the fist intent came, the nine words shone brilliantly. They swept across, ripping everything. The fist intent kept pressing down but vanished when they collided against the words.

The strong cultivators in the air were shocked at this. They obviously felt that Gu Dongliu’s Noble Will had reached the pinnacle.

Gu Dongliu’s eyes were cold. He stared at the other and stepped forward. With this simple step, he transformed into lightning and disappeared.

Afterimages appeared in the air.

A shocking roar sounded through the air. The elder released his life spirit dharma. It was an armored stone ape. It was huge and loomed behind him. He clenched his right hand and seemed to be one with the aggressive stone ape.

Seeing the lightning, he roared angrily and punched. The stone ape roared, shaking the world. The terrifying fist was like a mountain, about to destroy everything blocking him. The fist intent kept building up too. It seemed endless and unshakeable.

The light streaked across and crashed into the huge and terrifying fist. An explosion sounded and the boulder flew. Heavy rumbles kept sounding. The crowd saw countless fist shadows get broken through. There seemed to be a beam of sharp light inside that couldn’t be blocked.

Boom!

With that loud boom, the aggressive elder arched backward. A handprint appeared on his chest. The next moment, he flew back as if struck by lightning to the dragon. Someone behind him stepped forward and used powerful strength to stop him.

The old man spat out blood, dying his collar red.

“High-class clan? You can’t take a hit!” Gu Dongliu said coldly, gazing at the elder from where he had stood earlier.

The elder spat out more blood, his face completely red!

Chapter 378: Win Over

 

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

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He’d been defeated instantly. The elder’s blood boiled within him. He felt so embarrassed. Low-class clan? He had been defeated so pathetically.

On the dragon’s back, the charismatic youth at the front looked at Gu Dongliu. “I am from the Nantian House of the Barren State. If you wish to join my house, I will not treat you badly.” He wanted to take Gu Dongliu in. This was a low-class clan in the Eastern Barren Territory but it wasn’t strange for there to be a powerful person. This place was known as the haven for cultivation in the Eastern Barren Territory. It was natural there should be some shining stars.

Thus, he wanted the other to join him in the Nantian House. If Gu Dongliu was willing to follow him, he would be a great help in the future. After all, he had many competitors in the house. Having his followers deal with powerful figures wasn’t embarrassing.

“The Nantian House is a familial clan. You can join the Taixuan Mountain for cultivation,” another strong cultivator on a mountain said. Gu Dongliu could summon the nine words and had a special life spirit. Someone so powerful deserved to be won over.

“Would you like to join the Mortal World?” the beautiful girl on the warship also asked. Her voice was very gentle and her benefits were obvious. Her force was called the Mortal World.

Below, the people of the College all had odd expressions at these words. They wanted to win over Gu Dongliu but who was Gu Dongliu?

He was the third disciple of the Cottage—someone who was known throughout the Eastern Barren Territory. So what if they were powerful forces from the outer Barren State? Was he supposed to submit to them?

The College disciples didn’t like the Cottage, but that didn’t mean they didn’t look up to Gu Dongliu and the others. Especially after that storm where the first three Cottage disciples displayed their brilliance, Gu Dongliu was like a legend to the younger disciples. So what if these intruders were outside forces?

The strong cultivator from the Nantian House had still been defeated with one hit.

“Where does the loser get the confidence?”

“How can the defeated still be so arrogant? Is this what a high-class clan is like?”

Many disciples started whispering on Book Mountain. They were upset by the tone of the youth from Nantian House. Perhaps the outsiders thought they were being polite to invite Gu Dongliu, but to the disciples of Book Mountain, it was insulting.

If you wish to join my house, I will not treat you badly.

What did they take Gu Dongliu as? They wanted him to become a personal guard? How laughable.

There was another 20-year-old youth behind the Nantian youth who spoke. Hearing the discussions, his eyebrow jumped up and coldness flashed past his eyes.

These low-class people of the Eastern Barren Territory didn’t respect the Nantian House at all. They were completely isolated from the outside world.

His body flashed and jumped down like a Roc. An Arcana aura bloomed from him as he announced, “I am in the lower Arcana Plane. I would like to see how the disciples of the cultivation haven are.” He didn’t report his name because the people here weren’t good enough. He was just coming out because he’d heard the comments and wanted to teach a lesson. Let them know what the Nantian House was. The man who’d fought Gu Dongliu couldn’t represent the Nantian House at all.

Dazzling light glittered on him with an extremely sharp silver glow. Seeming to be bathed in divine armor, he shot towards Book Mountain like lightning. The College disciples had sharp eyes. One stepped out and shot up quickly, straight towards the other. He wanted to see just how powerful the Nantian House was.

Brilliant golden light stole everyone’s attention. The College disciple waved his hand and cast his spell. Beams of golden light shot towards the outsider like swords. However, the Nantian House youth didn’t dodge. He walked in the sky. The countless golden spears that stabbed towards him snapped under his feet. They either passed by him or he stepped on them. He was so domineering.

After shattering the spell, he continued downward like lightning. Spiritual Qi resonated around the College disciple. Boundless gold Spiritual Qi gathered. However, before he could cast his spell, the other had arrived. He stepped down and the College disciple’s expression changed. The Spiritual Qi transformed into a golden spear that stabbed at the other in panic.

Crack. The foot landed, snapping the spear. The College disciple tried to retreat, but there was no time. The foot came down squarely on his chest. He fell through the sky, leaving an arc of blood.

“Cultivation haven of the Eastern Barren Territory?” The youth looked down. The silver light on his body was like true ritual implement armor. It was so eye-catching. He could shatter a spell with his feet. He was so powerful.

Boom. People rose up from Book Mountain continuously. They were extremely fast with their wind spells and charged at the other.

The youth gazed at them. Then he flashed and charged towards one. They separated at contact and the College disciple dropped down, covered in blood. After that, the Nantian House youth continued to flash, leaving behind silver afterimages. Those who shot up from Book Mountain kept falling down. No one in the lower Arcana Plane could defeat him.

“His technique is strange and has an extraordinary life spirit. It’s like a divine ritual implement,” a strong cultivator from the College said. This youth was most likely a core figure of the Nantian House. It was logical that he was powerful.

At this time, another figure shot up. It was Xiao Wuji. Of all current College disciples, he was the strongest in the lower Arcana Plane.

Bathed in full attribute Noble Will, Xiao Wuji created spells of every element, body dazzling. The two crashed against each other, battling in the air.

The battle was very intense. It finally wasn’t a one-sided fight.

The strong cultivators in the air watched patiently. This was the most powerful cultivation spot here. Seeing these cultivators, they realized it still had some talents. This man was quite good.

The youth below was the pride of the Nantian House. His name was Nan Yu and was in the top ten of his generation. As a disciple of the main lineage, his technique and life spirit all had an advantage. It was quite a feat for someone in the Eastern Barren Territory to fight him to this extent.

Nan Yu grew stronger and stronger. Endless silver light flowed through him, each beam extremely sharp. They pierced towards Xiao Wuji while a spear appeared in his hands. His spear technique was very precise and broad. He stirred the wind and clouds with his movements. Even when Xiao Wuji tried to dodge with a wind spell, the spear would follow, finally forcing Xiao Wuji back.

“Such precise techniques.” The people of the College had sharp eyes. They didn’t have such great spear techniques. Wind and clouds converged with the spear, forming a horrible force that took control of the air. The attacks went full out without restraint.

“Finally someone talented that can do this,” Nan Yu said coolly to Xiao Wuji.

Thud. As he spoke, the ground shook. Another figure shot into the air with aggression.

“Cottage.”

The College disciples looked up. The person who’d appeared was Yu Sheng from the Cottage. His eyes were cold as he went straight to Nan Yu. Nan Yu looked at him with interest. This man’s aura was very wild.

“Yu Sheng, come back,” Ye Futian called. In the air, Yu Sheng stopped abruptly. He looked back at Ye Futian with some frustration. He asked with his eyes why he couldn’t fight.

These guys were too rude and came to take Ye Futian away so brashly.

Ye Futian gave him a hard look. With Yu Sheng’s impulsiveness, anything could happen if he attacked. The youth had a high status. If he was badly hurt, it would cause troubles. He had to think about Yu Sheng.

“The cultivation level of the Nantian House can’t be matched by the Eastern Barren Territory. You saw the previous battle. Will you consider joining?” Nan Feng, the youth on the dragon, said. He was in the top three of the younger generation. Nobles couldn’t climb Sky Mountain, so they’d just sent the best of the youths.

The College disciples were uncomfortable. Earlier, Gu Dongliu had pressed back, but now, they were still humiliated.

“Not interested,” Gu Dongliu said coldly.

“Okay.” Nan Feng nodded and looked to Ye Futian. “I’m still going to take him. We only want him to take us up Sky Mountain. We won’t hurt him.”

Ye Futian and Qin Yu’s words matched; they didn’t lie. He believed that Ukiyo existed on Sky Mountain, but Ye Futian couldn’t learn it.

“No time,” Gu Dongliu said. The people beside Nan Feng furrowed their brows. This guy was taking their kindness for granted.

Coldness emanated from the strong cultivators in the sky. Weight pressed down. The low-class clans were so stubborn and disobedient.

“Third Senior Brother,” Ye Futian said, walking up. “I’ll go with them.”

Gu Dongliu looked at him. “Junior, no one is forcing you to do anything. Leave it to us.”

“I know, but I want to return to Sky Mountain,” Ye Futian insisted. The Cottage was surrounded by enemies and the Qin Dynasty watched like a predator. If they started a war with the Barren State because of this, it would be a disaster for both the College and Cottage.

Naturally, he didn’t want them to just care about him and not the others. Furthermore, nothing bad would happen if he went to Sky Mountain.

“Let him go.” A voice came out of the Cottage.

Gu Dongliu’s eyes flashed and he nodded. “Yes, Teacher.”

Mr. Du was the owner of that voice. Since their teacher said so, Gu Dongliu wouldn’t keep insisting.

The strong cultivators in the air retracted their auras. It seemed that someone was smart here. Sages couldn’t enter the Eastern Barren Territory, but they still couldn’t defeat the powerful forces from the Barren State!

Chapter 379: The Opportunity

Staring at those figures in the sky, the people of the College were not very happy. Even when confronting the Qin Dynasty’s alliance, the College and the Cottage had never flinched.

The Qin Dynasty had lost many talents because of the Cottage but still couldn’t handle them. But now they had to be subject to a foreign force. It was obvious to all that the College was anything but the match of the Barren State’s forces. That was why Ye Futian chose to compromise despite Gu Dongliu’s insistence.

“Let’s go,” Nan Feng said to Ye Futian.

Yu Sheng made a step forward. He was vexed.

“Calm down.” Ye Futian glanced at him and then looked up at the sky with a smile. He moved in the air, not heading for the dragon but that warship.

Nan Yu furrowed his brows. He glanced at Ye Futian with some discontentment.

“May I come in?” Ye Futian smiled at the lead woman on the ship.

This woman with long slender legs was Chu Shang, a rare beauty in the world. Seeing Ye Futian coming, she smiled gently and responded, “Please come in.”

“Thank you.” Ye Futian stepped up on the warship in the air. Seeing this, the College beneath was speechless. This guy really picked a good place, but they felt good because Nan Yu on the dragon’s back didn’t seem happy about that.

“Since it’s settled, it’s time to go.” Standing on the dragon’s back, Nan Feng chose not to bother since he had reached the goal.

The dragon rose into the sky and the warship also set off. All strong cultivators all left the Book Mountain.

Standing with the Cottage, Hua Jieyu looked a little anxious. She asked Mr. Du, “Sir?”

“Don’t worry!” Mr. Du said gently. When he waited at the Sky Mountain that day, he’d sensed something from the bell’s tolls. Then at the end of the year, he heard Ukiyo played in the Cottage. He knew what that meant.

That meant if Ye Futian went to the Sky Mountain, it would be very advantageous for him. Further, he was a very shrewd guy.

“Let me go to have a look.” Zhuge Hui was not very reassured.

Mr. Du didn’t stop her. Many people on the Book Mountain were ready to go, including Zhuge Hui, Gu Dongliu, and the Sword Saint. They rose up in the sky and moved toward Sky Mountain.

The clouds gathered and rolled on the way. The warship moved very fast. The dragon and three-footed Golden Raven guarded beside warship in case someone came to take Ye Futian away.

Standing on the warship’s deck, Ye Futian smiled at the woman and said, “I’m Ye Futian. What’s your name?”

“I’m Chu Shang,” the woman responded, looking at the distance.

Many other women stood behind the two. Some strong cultivators in Noble Plane were staring at Ye Futian too. This guy chose their warship just to flirt with Chu Shang? Did he have some inappropriate thoughts?

Chu Shang was indeed a charming woman with extraordinary appearance and temperament, but didn’t Ye Futian know Chu Shang’s status? How dare he flirt with her? Probably because the Eastern Barren Territory was isolated and he had no idea how big the gap was between them.

“I heard you talking to my third senior brother. You said you are from Mortal World. That is a pretty name. What kind of a force is your Mortal World in the Barren State? I guess it must be a very famous clan there,” Ye Futian said casually. Those people behind them thought too much. The reason he chose this warship was just because Chu Shang looked more pleasant than Nan Feng. Moreover, women were more willing to have conversations. He could tell that from their attitude toward his third senior brother.

“Of course, no clans here in the Eastern Barren Territory can be our match,” Chu Shang answered very frankly.

“It is so even if all your forces unite as one,” another woman behind them added indifferently.

Ye Futian grinned. Of course, he knew that the strongest governed all. The forces from the Barren State were so strong. Even their guards were already in the Noble Plane. There must be many sages in their clan. How could the forces in the Eastern Barren Territory be their match? He didn’t ask further. He knew they were disdainful about him. He began to observe the warship. It was very luxurious to make a warship. The Barren State must be a very rich place.

“I heard that you are the most talented youth among the young generation here?” Nan Yu asked, looking at Ye Futian from the dragon’s back at that moment.

On Sky Mountain, that monk had claimed that if somebody of the Eastern Barren Territory could get the emperors’ relics, it must be Ye Futian.

Ye Futian’s eyes flickered. Obviously, somebody imparted them things about him. That was why those guys came to the Cottage looking for him. Whether it be Hua Qingqing or not was not clear. But hearing what Nan Yu said about him, Ye Futian was wondering who hated him so much.

“I am not very talented. I just reached the Arcana Plane not too long ago. Who told you that? I’m really flattered.” Ye Futian laughed.

“You are not very talented? Then how can you reach the Sky Mountain’s top?” Nan Yu scorned. He wouldn’t believe that Ye Futian was just a normal guy. Since he could reach the mountaintop, there must be something special about him.

“It’s probably because I am lucky,” Ye Futian responded.

Nan Yu glanced at him coolly. If Ye Futian really was so talented, why didn’t he stand up when they defeated all challengers from the College? Why didn’t he dare to respond? Ye Futian seemed unworthy of his attention.

“Some people guessed you got the Sky Mountain’s relics. Is that true?” Chu Shang also asked him with a gentle smile. She looked gentle and mild, but Ye Futian could keenly feel the indifference under her smile.

“Sky Mountain is such a mysterious and profound place,” Ye Futian replied. “Just that song is abstruse enough. It’s very difficult for me to understand what it means. I could only roughly feel the artistic conception. How could I get the relics? Do you think it’s possible?” He would not admit it anyway.

Chu Shang looked at Ye Futian seriously and found that Ye Futian had a pair of beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance. She turned away and didn’t ask more.

This guy looked outstanding. She had no idea what kind of talent he had, but if possible, she would like to have Ye Futian work for her. It might be a good idea to bring him back to the Mortal World for further cultivation.

A line of figures descended upon Sky Mountain, including Qin Yu. He brought Hua Qingqing here. The head of Donghua Clan and Lady Yuxiao also came. They were displeased because of Qin Yu’s disclosure of Hua Qingqing’s story. But Qin Yu was thinking about the big picture. They could only hold their anger in check.

Hua Qingqing admitted that Ye Futian was on the mountaintop, but she didn’t say what exactly had happened. Lady Yuxiao was very curious about what happened between her daughter and Ye Futian. She didn’t tell Qin Yu this though.

Seeing Ye Futian appear again, a hint of murderous intent showed in Qin Yu’s eyes.

Ye Futian also noticed them. His eyes looked colder. He knew it must be them. What a group of nasty people! Then he saw Hua Qingqing, who also raised her head and looked at him with indescribable emotions. She was wondering whether she would fight with Ye Futian if all this could happen again.

“She is the one?” Nan Feng glanced at Hua Qingqing. This woman had a good-looking face too. She could be counted as a rare beauty even in the Barren State. A kind of innocence made her even prettier than Chu Shang.

“Yes, she is Hua Qingqing, a youth who has been to the mountaintop.” Qin Yu nodded.

“Good. You two lead us to the Sky Mountain’s top.” Nan Feng looked at Ye Futian and Hua Qingqing. Since the two had been to the mountaintop, there must be something unusual about them. They might know the method to climb Sky Mountain. It was the best to have them as the guide.

“But the pressure from the Sky Mountain is much stronger than before. I’m not very sure whether we can go up,” Hua Qingqing said lightly. Standing at the foot of the mountain, she could feel that pressure.

“How would you know if you don’t try? Just lead the way,” said the youth bathing in flaming light. He was from the Sacred Fire Sect, named Du Ao.

Hua Qingqing glanced at Du Ao and nodded. They moved toward the Sky Mountain.

“Be careful,” Lady Yu Xiao warned her daughter. She looked at Qin Yu coldly. Obviously, she was very unhappy about this.

Ye Futian, Hua Qingqing, and other youths from the top forces all headed for the mountain. Those in Noble Plane stayed at the foot and saw the youths go up.

In the distance, a few figures stood in the snow and stared at those youths too. They were Sword Saint’s group. They worried about Ye Futian. Though these forces from the Barren State came for the Sky Mountain and they wouldn’t hurt Ye Futian, they still needed to be on guard.

On the way to the mountaintop, Ye Futian and Hua Qingqing led the way. They didn’t talk to each other. A horde of strong cultivators followed behind them. Last time, these cultivators had tried but failed.

“Every snowflake here seems to be transformed from the Sky Mountain’s Spiritual Qi.” Chu Shang reached out her hand and looked at the snowflakes on her palm. Then she looked up at the endless snow on the mountain.

“Does it mean that the whole mountain is a just heap of Spiritual Qi?” Ye Futian laughed. But he knew that Chu Shang was right. The Sky Mountain was indeed full of Spiritual Qi. The two Emperors’ will melted in the whole mountain. Every snowflake was a share of their intent.

When stepping on the snow of the Sky Mountain, he felt so familiar with everything here. Every part of his body felt good. His little eagle was still cultivating on the mountain. He could see everything on the mountain.

“How did you get on top of the mountain last time?” Chu Shang asked.

“My level is quite low, so I didn’t suffer a lot from the pressure. I was lucky,” Ye Futian answered.

“The Sky Mountain is covered with two emperors’ deterrent force of will as well as strong demonic will. If you can resist that, then you can go up to the mountain. But this time, both powers became much stronger,” Hua Qingqing murmured. She didn’t expose Ye Futian. Even the Arhat could only infer. Only she knew that Ye Futian managed to learn the Ukiyo by the two emperors. When he went down the mountain, that bell tolled. It was not an accident. That bell rang just for him.

“Let’s speed up,” a strong cultivator from the Super Xuan Mountain urged. The deterrent force hadn’t threatened them so far. They could speed up.

…

At the foot of the mountain, Qin Yu informed the head of Donghua Clan, “The Sword Saint’s group is here.”

“What do you want to do?” the head of Donghua Clan asked. Of course, he knew that the Sword Saint’s group was here. The Sword Saint, Zhuge Hui, and Gu Dongliu were all here in the snow at the foot of Sky Mountain.

Qin Yu sneered, “Isn’t it the opportunity that we want?”

Chapter 380: General Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

 

Sky Mountain was still covered in boundless snow.

On the mountain path, a group of cultivators was walking upwards. It was Ye Futian and the rest. As they ascended, their speed gradually dropped because the pressure was becoming larger and larger.

Han Lan, the young man from Taixuan Mountain, asked Ye Futian, “How long do we need to reach there?”

They had already been walking on Sky Mountain for quite a long while, and yet they still could not see the end, just like the previous time. Since Ye Futian had been to Sky Mountain, he should know the answer.

“I can’t tell. If you want to reach the peak of Sky Mountain, you should not talk about how long you need. As we go higher, the pressure we experience will increase. The last bit will be the hardest,” Ye Futian replied.

“You look so relaxed.” Nan Yu from Nantian House glanced at Ye Futian.

“I have been here for many times, so clearly it’ll be easier for me.” Ye Futian smiled.

Nan Yu glanced coldly at Ye Futian, and some faint evilness could be seen in his eyes. He was affected by the evil thoughts on Sky Mountain and felt somewhat manic.

Apart from him, the rest felt the same as well. As the group continued their ascent, more and more people could no longer endure the pressure and chose to leave Sky Mountain.

Chu Shang also looked at Ye Futian who was walking with ease and looked calm. The influence Sky Mountain had on him was indeed minimal. Apart from him, Hua Qingqing also did not seem to have encountered any difficulty as she walked in the dancing snow. Although Hua Qingqing was advancing with the others, she appeared to be alone by herself, like a plum flower blooming in the snow.

This caused everyone from the Barren State to have a strange feeling. They would not think that they were weaker than the two, but why did Ye Futian and Hua Qingqing look so relaxed? If the two really had mastered the secrets of Sky Mountain, they would have discovered it long ago.

The group passed through regions after regions and had already been on Sky Mountain for a few days. It was extremely difficult to climb the mountain, so the number of cultivators in the group had been decreasing consistently. At the moment, there were only over ten people left and they no longer looked as imposing as they were at the start of the climb.

Their speed was also decreasing. Even the geniuses from the major forces in the Barren State were more and more affected by the evil thoughts.

Du Ao from Sacred Fire Sect was still covered in a holy radiance to resist the coldness and pressure on Sky Mountain. However, an evil flame seemed to be burning in his eyes. He felt an extremely evil power seeping into his mind continuously, influencing him.

Suddenly, Hua Qingqing turned around and said softly, “The pressure and evil thoughts are both becoming stronger. We should give up.” Everyone in the snow stared at her pure eyes which were still not affected by the evilness at all. Standing in the snow, she looked cold and ethereal.

“Since you can reach the peak last time, we can do it this time as well.” Du Ao from Sacred Fire Sect walked forward. He suddenly reached out his hands and put them on Hua Qingqing’s shoulders, and he stared at the flawless lady before him.

Hua Qingqing’s body trembled slightly. At the instant when his hands touched her shoulders, she stepped back immediately. Her look turned cold at once as she stared at Du Ao and a freezing aura erupted from her body.

Everyone around looked at them with a strange expression. Chu Shang also glanced coldly at Du Ao. Although the evil will on Sky Mountain could indeed magnify the evil thoughts in everyone’s minds, Du Ao was a genius from Sacred Fire Sect after all. He was bringing himself disgrace by doing such an act.

“Du Ao’s right. Let’s keep going,” Nan Feng said emotionlessly. They would naturally not give up so easily. Hua Qingqing looked coldly at Du Ao, after which she turned around and continued walking.

An evil flame was burning in Du Ao’s eyes as he gazed at Hua Qingqing’s back. He was not totally affected by the evil thoughts. Instead, Hua Qingqing was very attractive to him in the first place.

This lady was born with a pure, flawless temperament which protected her from the evil thoughts. Perhaps this was also the reason why she could reach the peak of Sky Mountain.

Hua Qingqing was not only very beautiful, but she also had an extraordinary physique. If she could become his partner, it would be very beneficial to his cultivation of certain fire-elemental techniques. Such an exquisite lady was rare even in the Barren State.

Du Ao walked up to Hua Qingqing and asked, “You have an extraordinary physique. Are you talented in fire-elemental abilities?”

“Nope,” Hua Qingqing replied coldly as she continued walking forward.

“Sacred Fire Sect had many unique techniques that are very suitable for you. Do you want to join us and cultivate?” Du Ao continued. The people around him all glanced at him.

“I guess he’s just too free,” Nan Yu sneered. Nevertheless, Hua Qingqing was indeed extremely pretty and attractive.

“Ye Futian!” Nan Yu shouted at the person in front of him. Ye Futian turned his head around and looked at him.

“Do you want to join Nantian House and become my subordinate? In the future, you’ll become a general in Nantian House.” As the group advanced on Sky Mountain, the impression Nan Yu had towards Ye Futian had also changed. It seemed to him that Ye Futian’s willpower was very outstanding, for otherwise, he would not be able to endure till the moment. He was willing to give Ye Futian a chance to let him join Nantian House.

A direct descendant of Nantian House such as him would certainly have a high position in the family in the future and own many powers. For example, the people who had followed him to the Eastern Barren Territory this time were all generals from Nantian House.

“No, that’s fine.” Ye Futian smiled. Subordinate? Nantian House general?

“The Eastern Barren Territory lacks cultivation resources. Even though you are talented, your cultivation will still be delayed if you stay here. Because your talents are not bad, we are willing to let you join Nantian House. Do you know how many people in the Barren State dream of joining us? Those top nobles below the mountain all joined us willingly,” Nan Feng also said as he stared at Ye Futian with a supercilious look. However, he felt that by saying this he was already giving Ye Futian much face.

He could not find a way to explain the position of Nantian House to the people in the Eastern Barren Territory. Perhaps Ye Futian would find out only after he went to the Barren State himself.

Ye Futian smiled and shook his head. “I am used to my own clan.”

How could Nantian House compare with the Cottage?

He had big brother, third brother, the kind and gentle second sister, the clever sixth sister, and fourth and fifth brothers in the Cottage. Although Yi Xiaoshi was somewhat abnormal recently, he was still quite cute. Only that old guy… but Ye Futian could still barely tolerate him.

They wanted him to give up such a nice place and become a general in Nantian House.

Idiot.

“Why does everyone from the holy land of the Eastern Barren Territory not know the appropriate things to do?” Nan Yu remarked emotionlessly. He was clearly referring to Gu Dongliu and Ye Futian. Both of them had rejected the invitation from Nantian House.

Ye Futian thought that he was an idiot, but he was thinking of the same thing as well. Ye Futian just gave up the opportunity to join Nantian House. In the future when he realized what Nantian House was, he would regret it.

As the group continued forward, eventually there were only seven people left.

They were Ye Futian, Hua Qingqing, Nan Feng and Nan Yu from Nantian House, Chu Shang from Mortal World, Du Ao from Sacred Fire Sect, and Han Lan from Taixuan Mountain.

At the moment, their footsteps seemed to be extremely heavy, including Ye Futian. A gust of wind blew down from the sky and onto everyone’s body. Even Nan Feng and the rest felt that they were almost reaching their extreme and could not hold on for much longer.

An extremely powerful aura was released from their bodies. Nan Feng and Nan Yu were covered in silver, dazzling armors, while Chu Shang’s body was showered in a brilliant radiance as if she was a fairy from the heavens. Du Ao’s body was covered with a fiery light, which at the moment seemed to have been corroded by the evil thoughts; only dark, evil flames were burning. Han Lan was releasing a wild aura as if he was a cold, fierce demon.

On the other hand, musical notes seemed to be dancing around Hua Qingqing’s pure body which was showered in sacred light.

“It’s not far away. If we persist for a while longer, we’ll reach the top. Last time, it was like this as well. If we can break through our limits, we can reach the summit.” Ye Futian’s face was completely red, and a terrifying light was burning in his eyes as if he was in great pain. However, he still gritted his teeth and continued walking.

Hua Qingqing glanced at Ye Futian. He could trick everyone else but not her.

Ye Futian was only pretending to be in pain, but of course, she would not tell everyone that.

Their current location was still quite far from the summit. Last time, the Arhat intercepted Ye Futian and the rest right here. She knew well that these people would not be able to reach the peak, especially when Ye Futian was present.

Everyone tried to endure the pressure and their speed slowed further. The evil thoughts were everywhere, and they could even feel a monstrous Demon Bird appear in their minds.

Nan Yu frowned and asked Ye Futian, “How long do we need exactly?”

“Soon,” Ye Futian replied with much difficulty.

After a while, the flames surrounding Du Ao turned into darkness. His look was filled with evilness, and his will could no longer take it.

“How long?” Du Ao also asked.

“Soon,” Ye Futian said.

“How many times have you repeated that word?” The evil light in Du Ao’s eyes blazed, and his tone was very threatening.

“We’re almost at the top. Every step that we take now is as difficult as climbing the sky. You’re the geniuses from the Barren State, so since I can endure it, I believe you can as well. If I can no longer take it, I’ll quit,” Ye Futian said. Du Ao gave a cold humph, and the others also did not know whether they should give up or not. Ye Futian and Hua Qingqing were both continuing.

Ye Futian sneered in his mind. Didn’t they want to climb Sky Mountain?

Since this was the case, he would accompany them to the end.

They were all geniuses from the Barren State and thought that they were extraordinary. Ye Futian really wanted to see how long they could hold.

He sneered and continued advancing, keeping to an extremely slow speed so that the rest could follow him.

Suddenly, in the minds of everyone, a terrifying illusory Demon Bird appeared. It was as if the Demon Bird could attack their wills, causing them to be in great pain.

Giving a muffled humph, Nan Yu stopped and could not lift his feet anymore.

Ye Futian turned around and asked, “What is it?”

“Are we there yet?” Nan Yu stared at Ye Futian.

“Soon…” It was still the same reply.

Nan Yu stared coldly at Ye Futian, and his eyes were filled with blood streaks. He could not even remember how many times Ye Futian had said that word.

“Can you no longer persist?” A strange expression appeared on Ye Futian’s face. “If you can’t, don’t force yourself as it will be dangerous. After all, you’re an important person from Nantian House. If something were to happen to you…”

Dong. Nan Yu’s eyes were filled with demonic red light, but he still took a step forward. An evil aura was flowing on his body, and even his look changed. Suddenly, he gave a muffled humph and blood flew from the corner of his mouth.

Nan Feng and Chu Shang looked at Ye Futian. Although they were affected by the evilness, they were still rational. They both felt that something was amiss. If they were to continue, they would eventually collapse!

Chapter 381: The Demon Bird on Sky Mountain Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

 

Is he acting like this deliberately? Nan Feng thought, gazing at Ye Futian. His words had indeed been very provocative and had lured them all the way here. However, even if Ye Futian did this on purpose, what could they do? They could give up anytime. Because Nan Yu was unwilling to give up, he had reached his extreme at the moment and was injured. It seemed likely that he would not be able to continue.

How about the rest? How long more could they endure? Could they reach the summit of the mountain?

Ye Futian had been claiming that they would reach soon, but nobody knew how far away the summit was exactly.

Suddenly, Du Ao from Sacred Fire Sect walked up to Hua Qingqing and asked, “Hua Qingqing, how long more do we need?”

Hua Qingqing felt somewhat disgusted—Du Ao had been following her all along.

However, Sky Mountain this time felt different from the last. She was also enduring a great amount of pressure. The willpower that had merged into the mountain seemed to have revived, as well as the evil thoughts. She was similarly reaching her extreme and could not keep her distance from him.

“We still have some distance to go. You should give up. Although I did manage to reach the peak the last time, I indeed walked up myself. This time, however, it seems to be tougher.” Hua Qingqing turned her head and glanced at everyone.

“Alright.” Du Ao’s body was covered in dark light, while his eyes were burning with an evil flame, in which some darkness could be seen. He took another step closer to Hua Qingqing. Then, he suddenly reached out his hands and grabbed towards Hua Qingqing’s arms.

Hua Qingqing’s expression changed; this was already the second time. With her body showered in sacred radiance, she released a strong wave of Spiritual Energy towards Du Ao while trying to avoid the grab. However, Du Ao’s arms became covered in terrifying flames as he struck his hands towards Hua Qingqing’s body. Under the pressure of Sky Mountain, she could not dodge the surprise attack at such a close range. Thus, Du Ao still grabbed the upper parts of her arms.

“Follow me down the mountain,” Du Ao said as he started to descend. It was challenging to climb Sky Mountain, but right the opposite for descent.

“Let me go!” Hua Qingqing’s Guqin Spirit appeared behind her, and the music immediately tried to attack Du Ao’s Spiritual Will.

Boom. Du Ao’s eyes were covered in dark flames, and a sacred fire-like radiance enveloped the two. He was in the Upper Arcana Plane, while Hua Qingqing only the Middle Arcana Plane. Clearly, she could not fight back.

“I’ll go down first.” Grabbing Hua Qingqing with his arms, Du Ao turned around and ran down the mountain. This unexpected event caused everyone to be momentarily stunned. Everything just happened in an instant. It was as if Du Ao had already planned long ago that if he could not make it to the top, then he would bring Hua Qingqing down with him.

Ye Futian took a step backward and wanted to chase them. He squinted, and coldness filled his eyes.

“It’s none of your business. We’ll continue forward.” Han Lan from Taixuan Mountain was releasing an extremely wild aura, as if he was a human-like demon, as he stared at Ye Futian with his monstrous eyes. Evil thoughts had entered his minds and activated the wildness in him. Therefore, he wanted to continue the ascent.

In this short moment, Du Ao had already brought Hua Qingqing down the path for quite a distance. Ye Futian could see Hua Qingqing staring at him like she was asking for help. She knew that Ye Futian could save her.

“Let’s try again. If we really cannot do it we’ll give up,” Nan Feng also said to Ye Futian. Although he despised Du Ao for his action, it was none of his business as well.

Ye Futian glanced at everyone and nodded. “Okay then.” After that, he turned around and continued the climb. His will, however, began to envelop Sky Mountain and he could see Du Ao bring Hua Qingqing all the way down. Their speed during the descent was unrestricted at all and extremely fast, while the evil thoughts were also weakening. However, the evil flames in Du Ao’s eyes were not extinguishing at all; instead, they were growing more intense. Looking at the pure and flawless lady before him, his eyes were filled with greed. If he could bring her to Sacred Fire Sect, she would be his in the future.

“B*stard!” Ye Futian’s heart was filled with coldness. At the moment, there was a monstrous dark figure inside Sky Mountain. The endless Demonic Will circling Sky Mountain turned into an illusory Demon Bird and engulfed the region of darkness.

Suddenly, however, a pair of eyes opened in the darkness. The pair of eyes looked unruly and unrestricted as if they were from the Demon Bird itself. At this instant, the endless willpower on Sky Mountain gushed towards the illusory Demon Bird that had just formed. The willpower from Sky Mountain and the Demonic Will turned into two forces that tried to eliminate one another. Then, some coldness flashed across the demonic pair of eyes.

Buzz! A figure charged out towards the sky like a dark bolt of lightning. It kept ascending and flew out of Sky Mountain directly, while an endless amount of Demonic Will circled around its body. At this instant, an enormous Demon Bird appeared on the summit of Sky Mountain.

The Demon Bird dived down from the summit with a striking speed, like a bolt of lightning.

At the moment, Ye Futian and the rest were still climbing the mountain with much difficulty.

“Why are the evil thoughts getting stronger?” Chu Shang said. Her wonderful body was covered with protective light, but suddenly she could feel the evil thoughts increasing rapidly.

Apart from her, the rest also felt it and were puzzled.

“Above us!” Suddenly, Nan Feng raised his head and saw a Demon Bird which had blotted out the sun and the skydiving down towards them. His face immediately turned very pale.

“Run!” Without any hesitation, Nan Feng turned around and ran down the path. Clearly, he did not want to climb Sky Mountain anymore. The Demon Bird which he saw was the one that had appeared in their minds. It actually existed!

Everyone did not hesitate and turned around to run directly. However, the Demon Bird was too fast and reached them in a flash. They could only take out powerful ritual implements to protect themselves.

The enormous Demon Bird swept past them, and it was as if the end of the world was coming. They were all blown off into the air directly as they coughed much blood. Then, they fell back onto the ground and still kept rolling downwards. However, the Demon Bird dived past them directly, as if it was not interested in them at all.

Cough!

Nan Feng spat out a mouthful of blood which colored the snow below him. The hit just now was too terrifying. Turning around, he saw Ye Futian also lying down on the ground and yelled coldly, “Bastard! Why didn’t you say that there is actually a Demon Bird on the mountain?”

“I didn’t see it the last time here,” Ye Futian replied.

“Idiot!” Nan Yu was even more severely injured. Just now, he was already reaching his extreme, and furthermore, the sharp claws of the Demon Bird landed on his chest directly. If he did not have a ritual implement, he would either be dead or disabled by now.

Chu Shang also looked at Ye Futian but did not say anything. Nobody had expected such an outcome, one that was even more miserable than the last. It seemed that they would never be able to make it to the summit.

Ye Futian sneered in his heart. Since these people wanted to climb Sky Mountain, he would accompany them and entertain them well.

Of course, he would not really kill them here.

Otherwise, if he and Hua Qingqing returned alive but the rest were dead, the top forces from the Barren State would certainly not let them off.

At the mountainside of Sky Mountain, Du Ao chose not to continue the descent. On the other hand, he brought Hua Qingqing to an isolated corner on the mountain and injured her. The resistance from her had caused him much trouble.

Lying in the snow, Hua Qingqing’s face turned miserably pale. Never had she expected such a thing to happen.

The evil flames in Du Ao’s eyes were still burning as he stared at Hua Qingqing on the ground. He walked up step by step and said, “Your body really suits me. Don’t worry. In the future, I’ll bring you back to Sacred Fire Sect. Perhaps one day you’ll become the wife of the Son of Sacred Fire Sect.”

“Scram!” Hua Qingqing’s eyes were filled with murderous intent as her Guqin Spirit appeared again. Obviously, she was unwilling to be humiliated like this.

“Why are you even resisting?” A flame god seemed to have appeared behind Du Ao, protecting him from the music. Then, a horrifying Flame Intent landed on Hua Qingqing’s body which caused her shirts to start burning in the dancing snow. Her white and smooth arms were displayed in his sight.

“You’ll not get what you want,” Hua Qingqing said with resolution.

“Even if you kill yourself, I’ll still not let you go.” The evil within Du Ao was ignited. Hearing his words, tears flew down from Hua Qingqing’s eyes.

Seeing Du Ao walk towards her step by step, she was desperate.

Du Ao produced evil laughter. Suddenly, he seemed to have felt something and shouted coldly, “Who’s there?”

Turning around, he saw wind whizzing wildly in the distance and snow sweeping towards him along with some dark light. Then, he saw a monstrous Demonic Bird.

“What’s that?” Du Ao’s expression changed instantly as the Demon Bird charged towards him at an astonishing speed. He grabbed Hua Qingqing and backed quickly.

The Demon Bird swept out its wings and slapped onto the two. At once, the two were separated and fell onto the ground.

Du Ao glanced at Hua Qingqing who had fallen to a place far from him and was unwilling to give up. However, he suddenly noticed the Demon Bird staring at him and charge towards him again.

“B*stard!”

Seeing the Demon Bird rushing towards him, Du Ao immediately took out a spell scroll and crushed it. His speed increased significantly, and he flew towards the side of the mountain like a gust of wind. He wanted to leave Sky Mountain.

The Demon Bird flapped its wings and neared Du Ao rapidly. His face turned pale as he took out another scroll. The scroll was crashed under fire and turned into a flame guardian.

Bang! The sharp claws of the Demon Bird struck out, and even the flame guardian was smashed into pieces. The frightening power caused Du Ao to be blown away and spit much blood in the air. Using this force, he retreated from the mountain hastily with the aid of wind.

The Demon Bird continued forward, but Du Ao was already at the edge of Sky Mountain. He immediately charged down, leaving the mountain.

Only then, the Demon Bird stopped and did not continue to chase. Its body made an arc in the sky as it made its way back. When it passed by Hua Qingqing, it glanced at her with its unruly eyes, after which it flew past her.

Hua Qingqing stared at the Demon Bird and shouted, “Thank you.” She had vaguely guessed a few things. Since the willpower on Sky Mountain had been controlled by Ye Futian, he would be able to control the Demon Bird as well.

Du Ao descended from the mountain, looking extremely injured, and soon he returned to the foot of Sky Mountain. Seeing Du Ao’s appearance, the people from Sacred Fire Sect asked, “What happened?”

“Nothing. There is a demon on Sky Mountain. I was assaulted by it,” Du Ao replied emotionlessly. The evil thoughts in his eyes slowly dissipated.

The cultivators from Mortal World walked up and asked, “Where’s the lady?” The people from Nantian House who were on the back of the dragon also asked a similar question.

“I don’t know. We were separated,” Du Ao replied as he glanced at the crowd. He seemed to be looking for Qin Yu and the family members of Hua Qingqing, but he realized that they were no longer here.

In the distance, however, a group of cultivators was heading towards Sky Mountain on the back of a dragon.

The composition of the group was astounding—Its members included Qin Yu, Donghua Clan leader and his wife, Lu Nantian, Fuyun Sword Clan leader, and the lords from Royal Xuan Temple!

Chapter 382: Game Between the Best Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

 

On the cloud-shrouded first mountain of the College, a pavilion was standing on the steep summit. Here, one could get a striking view of the entire Book Mountain.

At the moment, there were two old men in the pavilion playing a game of chess. They were clearly the College Chief and Mr. Du from the Cottage. Bai Lishu, who was standing beside them, was somewhat puzzled—such a scene was indeed extremely rare. It was the first time he saw his master and uncle playing chess.

What wind was blowing today? Why does it feel abnormal?

“It has been so long since we last played. Senior, your skills have improved significantly. You are less direct than you were in the past. Now, every move of yours seems natural and yet hidden with more moves. You are a master at it,” Mr. Du remarked, smiling.

“Your moves may seem mild, but you have secretly gained control of the entire game. Over these years, you’re becoming better at planning and calculation.” The long beard of the College Chief swang in the air, and he was sage-like. Although he was old, his voice was firm and stable.

“This is not planning. This is momentum.” Mr. Du shook his head.

“You made your moves in the whole Eastern Barren Territory in an attempt to fulfill your wish. So now, how’s the momentum?” the College Chief sneered, staring at Mr. Du.

“Senior, why do you have to be so unhappy?” Mr. Du smiled.

“How many years have both of us been cultivating? How long more do I have? Sooner or later I’ll pass away. I want to leave here to find a way to break through. Is it so difficult to give you this position?” the College Chief snarled, looking at Mr. Du. “Even if you don’t want it, what about your first disciple? Why did you ask him to leave that time? To fulfill your wish?”

Hearing the conversation between the two, Bai Lishu was shocked. Rumors outside claimed that that time, Mr. Du asked his first disciple to establish his own clan instead of staying at the College. The College Chief was extremely dissatisfied with this, and a conflict broke out between the two. The real reason was actually that the College Chief was looking for a person to take over his position, but Mr. Du rejected. Therefore, he thought of the Sword Saint.

This was indeed surprising.

“Senior, do you think I’ll be a good chief?” Mr. Du smiled with a lazy expression. “Moreover, I think you’re well aware of some other reasons.”

College Chief Xiao stared at Mr. Du. Eventually, he heaved a long sigh in his heart. He knew why Mr. Du would not take over his position, but he did not even allow Sword Saint to take over. The College Chief was extremely unhappy—he did not have much time left.

Although cultivators could live much longer, they were not immortal. He was not yet a sage and would still die eventually. Only after he made the breakthrough, his lifespan could be extended. Hence, he wanted to leave the Eastern Barren Territory and look for opportunities outside. With his talents, he would not be able to feel the Sage Plane and take the last step by secluding in the Eastern Barren Territory.

“Senior, I know that you have high hopes for me. I have also thought about how you can leave without worries after all these are finished. But…” Mr. Du gave a bitter smile and shook his head.

“If you wish to fulfill your ambition in the Eastern Barren Territory, you will go against the benefits of the others. It’s certainly not as easy as you have imagined,” College Chief Xiao said. He knew what his junior wanted to do.

“That’s true. It’s so difficult to change just the Eastern Barren Territory.” Mr. Du continued shaking his head. He gazed into the distance and added, “What’s coming will come.”

Hearing his words, College Chief Xiao similarly raised his head. In the sky, wind and clouds whizzed. Suddenly, the howl of dragon erupted, shocking the entire earth.

On Book Mountain, countless people looked up at the sky, where they saw a real dragon devouring clouds and descend from the height.

The enormous dragon was golden and majestic. Three people were standing on its back. The person who was in front had a crown on his head and was wearing the emperor’s robe; he looked all-powerful. He was the most powerful person in the Eastern Barren Territory, the king of Qin.

On each side of the king of Qin, there was also an elder. They looked unfathomable. Apart from them, many cultivators appeared in the sky around them as well. They were powerful nobles from the four major forces which had allied. Now, they had also come to Book Mountain.

Immediately, Book Mountain was shaken. Many people ascended into the air to face their common enemy.

Qin Dynasty finally sent their army to Book Mountain.

Standing on the back of the dragon, the king of Qin looked at the pavilion on the first mountain, as if his look had penetrated across space. He stared at the two elders playing chess and laughed. “Greetings, College Chief Xiao, Mr. Du.”

With a cold expression on his face, College Chief Xiao lifted his head and shouted, “Scram.” He wished that the king of Qin could scram as far as possible.

At the moment, he was somewhat anxious.

“Senior, since the guest is here, we don’t have a reason to chase him away.” Mr. Du, however, smiled casually. He looked at the king of Qin in the sky and said, “Please.”

“Alright,” the king of Qin nodded, smiling. He walked down from the sky, while the two elders followed him closely. On the other hand, the dragon remained hovering in the air.

The various mountain elders of Book Mountain, as well as the cultivators from Sword Saint Mountain and Moon Clan, ascended into the air one after another. They stared coldly at the people opposite them, creating a stalemate.

Goddess Wangyue came near the pavilion on the first mountain but kept her distance. Then, she looked at the two elders beside the king of Qin. Their eyes looked deep, and they were not releasing any aura, but everyone could feel that they were extremely dangerous. In addition, they looked ancient. If they still seemed old despite having cultivated to this level, they must have lived for many years.

The king of Qin landed on the ground, after which he saluted to Mr. Du by folding his hands and said, “I have heard your name for very long, but unfortunately have not met you in person. Today, I came here to visit you. Please do not blame me for disturbing.”

His tone was sincere, and he was not hypocritical. Instead, he meant what he said.

Mr. Du was indeed a respected figure in the Eastern Barren Territory.

There were eight disciples in the Cottage. The first three were already famous in the Eastern Barren Territory, and any one of them could establish their own clans and stand at the peak of the Eastern Barren Territory. The other disciples were still growing, but they had already displayed their remarkable talents. In the future, it seemed unlikely that they would be much weaker than the Sword Saint and the other two.

Even if Mr. Du did not know how to cultivate, he would still be considered as a legend by picking these disciples and teaching them to such a level.

Furthermore, the king of Qin did not believe that Mr. Du really could not cultivate.

The two people beside the king of Qin also stared at Mr. Du, as if they were trying to feel something from him.

“You’re too polite.” Mr. Du smiled casually. He had noticed that while the king of Qin had brought many cultivators here, the leader of Donghua Clan and his wife, as well as several other important figures, were not here.

Mr. Du smiled mildly; he knew what had happened.

“College Chief Xiao and Mr. Du, you have been enjoying yourselves. I am mediocre at playing chess. Mr. Du, are you interested in playing a game with me?” the king of Qin said, looking at Mr. Du.

“Please.” Mr. Du extended his arm. College Chief Xiao stared at him and his beard swang in the air.

“Senior,” Mr. Du shouted at College Chief Xiao.

College Chief Xiao was, however, still staring at him.

“Senior, our visitors are our guests,” Mr. Du added. Only then, College Chief stood up unwillingly. Then, he walked to the side the glanced coldly at the king of Qin.

“College Chief Xiao, I apologize for the trouble.” The king of Qin nodded at the College Chief. Then, he sat down opposite Mr. Du. The pieces returned from the board as they started a new game.

In the sky above Book Mountain, the people from both the College and Qin Dynasty and its allies all gazed at the situation in the pavilion, feeling somewhat emotional.

The most powerful person in the Eastern Barren Territory and the mysterious and low-key legend from the Cottage were playing a game of chess on Book Mountain.

They all knew clearly that in this game, the pieces would still fall onto the chessboard, but they would affect the whole Eastern Barren Territory.

“Mr. Du, I heard that you are College Chief Xiao’s junior, so you’re more senior than me. You should go first,” the king of Qin said politely.

Mr. Du nodded gently and landed his first move casually, as if it only depended on his mood.

The king of Qin smiled and similarly made his move.

Book Mountain seemed to be very quiet, but the atmosphere was somewhat tense. The sound of chess pieces landing on the chessboard was exceptionally clear.

“Mr. Du, you seem to be making your moves randomly, but without me realizing it you are already taking control of the whole game. Terrific.” The king of Qin smiled. Then, he made his next move. Seeing the scene, College Chief Xiao’s eyes sparkled.

Mr. Du wanted to take control of the game, while the king of Qin followed him closely. All his moves were direct and aggressive.

Mr. Du smiled and continued the game.

As the two played, slowly, an invisible aura actually spread out from the king of Qin and enveloped the space.

“Mr. Du, you’re a legendary figure, why are you confining yourself to such a small place?”

The king of Qin made his move. On the chessboard, there seemed to be a dragon charging out and devouring everything.

“I make my moves after careful consideration.” Mr. Du smiled and continued to make his move casually. Immediately, the region where his piece landed seemed to be rescued from the siege. Once they were rescued, they could respond to the whole game and form an unstoppable force.

The king of Qin held a piece in his hand, but his hand hovered in mid-air. The aura around him turned into the shape of a dragon. It was as if he was temporarily trapped.

Finally, his finger landed onto the board. The dragon charged out and wanted to kill its enemy at all costs.

“At all consequence?” Mr. Du shook his head, after which he made his next move. He never once spent time thinking before making his move, as if he had already known everything.

However, his move was still defensive.

“You take control of the whole game. If your plans work out, you will be unstoppable. We do not have much time left. We’ll either make or break it,” the king of Qin said emotionlessly. He looked at the chessboard, where he felt an invisible pressure. Then, he made his move, which charged into the enemy’s territory in an attempt to break the balance.

“You leave yourself with no paths of return. If you lose, you lose everything. Why?” Mr. Du said again and continued the game.

The people on Book Mountain listened to the conversation between the two. There were many hidden meanings which they could not understand fully.

The pieces of the king of Qin and Mr. Du landed on the chessboard, but the chessboard itself could be the entire Eastern Barren Territory.

The king of Qin froze as he stared at the chessboard. When Mr. Du made his last move, the situation changed drastically. He had always been in a defensive position, but after that move, it felt like he could clear all his enemies with one strike. The pieces which the king of Qin sent on the siege all seemed to be in a dangerous position now as if they would be killed immediately.

“Do you still want to continue?” Mr. Du asked.

The king of Qin was shocked in his heart. His fingers trembled gently as he stared at the chessboard, after which he made his move. The two ends of his pieces on the board worked together to form a siege as if they were two dragons. If any of them won, they would engulf their enemies together. “I have already made my move and cannot return. Qin Yu and the rest have gone to Sky Mountain. After the battle there ends, they’ll come here.”

“Unrepentant. Why?”

Mr. Du shook his head and put down his next move with his hand. Immediately, a region that was under the siege also changed drastically and cut the connection between the two dragons. It was as if this move could decide the game.

“It’ll be difficult for them to leave Sky Mountain in one piece,” Mr. Du remarked casually.

Chapter 383: Battle Between the Best

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

At the foot of Sky Mountain, the wind was blowing and snowflakes were dancing wildly in the air. In the distance, there was a group of cultivators. Many people looked in that direction and were astonished.

The group consisted of Qin Yu, the crown prince of Qin Dynasty, Donghua Clan leader and his wife, Lu Nantian, Fuyun Sword Clan leader, the lord from Royal Xuan Temple, as well as several elders from Qin Dynasty and Donghua Clan.

So many strong cultivators had appeared at Sky Mountain and they were heading directly towards the place where the three strongest disciples of the Cottage were at.

The Eastern Barren Territory was about to change drastically.

The long-awaited battle was about to erupt at the moment. Nobody had expected it to happen neither at the College nor at Qin Dynasty, but rather at Sky Mountain.

The only question was why the king of Qin was not present.

Sword Saint, Zhuge Hui, and Gu Dongliu also noticed the group. Standing proudly in the air, their eyes were only filled with coldness. It seemed like the group was aiming directly at them. At the other side, the cultivators from various top forces of the Barren State all seemed to be interested in the situation. It seemed to them that the Eastern Barren Territory was not in a peaceful state.

They would probably be able to see how strong the best cultivators of the Eastern Barren Territory were.

The crowd beside Sword Saint and the other two retreated as far as they could. Qin Yu and the rest had arrived and the final battle was imminent, so clearly they had to avoid it totally. Therefore, shortly afterward only three people remained quietly in that region as if they were isolated by the entire world.

The snow fell down continuously from the sky, onto the three who were standing straight at their spots. Sword Saint looked majestic, Zhuge Hui cold and proud, while Gu Dongliu extremely sharp.

This was the first time the three eldest disciples of the Cottage stood together to fight their enemies. Many people turned very emotional; these three were the legends of the Eastern Barren Territory. They were the models for countless many. However, this time, their enemies were way too strong—Donghua Clan leader and his wife, Fuyun Sword Clan leader, Royal Xuan Temple lord. All of them were very influential figures in the Eastern Barren Territory.

How would the Cottage disciples fight them?

“It seems like someone has a poor memory. Or perhaps, those hits from my whip that time simply aren’t painful enough.” Zhuge Hui smiled coldly as she glanced at Qin Yu. Immediately, Qin Yu’s face darkened. The battle at Sky Mountain last time was the biggest humiliation he had experienced in his life.

Looking down at Zhuge Hui who was wearing a white shirt and standing in the snow like a fairy, Qin Yu said, “The second disciple of the Cottage indeed looks elegant. I heard that you’re still single now. How about marrying into Qin Dynasty? Coincidentally, I need a concubine.” After that, he looked at the other people beside him and said, “Be gentle later and don’t injure her.” Qin Yu really wanted to clear himself of the humiliation he had experienced at Sky Mountain on that day. The only way was for Zhuge Hui to submit herself below him and be played by him. She would use her entire life to repent for that battle.

Lady Yuxiao glanced emotionlessly at Qin Yu and felt somewhat disgusted. Qin Yu was humiliated because he was weaker, and yet he wanted to humiliate Zhuge Hui in such a way, which was really distasteful.

That day at Sky Mountain, Qin Li was killed and Qin Yu lost badly in the battle, which totally shattered his confidence. His mentality, therefore, became somewhat distorted. This could also be seen from his act of using Hua Qingqing to get closer to the people from the Barren State.

At the moment, Qin Yu would achieve his goal at all costs. However, Lady Yuxiao did not say anything. Donghua Clan had also crossed the point of no return.

Just as Qin Yu finished speaking, an extremely sharp aura bloomed from Gu Dongliu and ascended into the air, charging towards Qin Yu. His murderous intent filled the sky.

Hearing Qin Yu’s words, Zhuge Hui suddenly laughed. Concubine? She then put her hand near her waist. Following a soft noise, her long whip appeared in her hand.

Zhuge Hui’s arm trembled slightly. The whip rotated and flew into the air, turning into a white bolt of lightning which penetrated across space. In the sky, thunder roared and lightning flashed. Immediately, countless lightning flew on the whip as it swept towards the sky. It was as if the whip had turned into a lightning storm that was attempting to engulf the entire region. Every lightning in the storm held a destructive power. Anyone who got trapped in the storm would almost certainly be destroyed.

“Back!” The people in the distance had already retreated a huge distance, but feeling the power of the storm, they ran back again as they still felt unsafe. Zhuge Hui’s casual action actually caused the whole region to be enveloped in such a devastating power.

Beside Sky Mountain, the people from the Barren State were all surprised by the scene. It seemed that they had indeed underestimated the power of the College. At least the lady before them was very strong. This lightning spell was definitely one that had exceeded the noble-level.

In the sky, the expressions of Qin Yu and the rest all turned dignified. Zhuge Hui had only cast one spell, and it already caused them to feel some pressure. This lightning spell was cast by the whip, a sage ritual implement. At the moment, all the lightning forces in the world had been brought together and the catastrophic storm was charging towards them, trying to engulf every person.

“Leader.” Qin Yu held his dragon spear in his hand, but he looked at Donghua Clan leader who was beside him. The previous battle already proved that he was no match against Zhuge Hui.

Donghua Clan was a force which was as famous as the Qin Dynasty and the College. Thus, the power of its leader was undoubtedly very strong.

Donghua Clan leader stared below him. He was holding a scepter in his hand, the Earthly Scepter.

Donghua Clan was well-known for its spells, and its leader cultivated both martial arts and sorcery. At the moment when he held the Earthly Scepter, an invisible gravity enveloped the region. Accompanying a violent rumbling, brown-colored radiance stared converging wildly around him. It actually turned into many enormous meteorites which were as huge as mountains. Then, they dropped down wildly towards the lightning storm.

Rumble! The sky cried and the battlefield turned into an actual doomsday. Bolts of lightning and meteorites collided into each other. Under the endless purple lightning, the meteorites were crushed continuously, but they seemed to be endless as well. They dropped down continuously, trying to fill the storm.

Zhuge Hui’s rotating arm suddenly pointed directly at the sky. At once, the lightning storm engulfed the sky and stopped gathering any powers.

The shirt of the Donghua Clan leader swang in the air and his long hair danced. He pointed his scepter downwards and immediately, a terrifying gravity stopped the storm from ascending. Suddenly, a whip struck out from the storm towards Donghua Clan leader.

The expression of Donghua Clan leader did not however change and a sacred, illusory figure appeared beside him. The figure looked huge and burly as if it was a divine being. He pointed his scepter out and immediately, many enormous palm prints appeared in the sky. They blotted out the sky and grabbed towards the whip, sealing the entire space. Like an agile snake, the whip suddenly changed its direction and charged towards Qin Yu.

Qin Yu’s body turned into a golden beam of light which dodged to the side. Then, the whip swept towards the dragon Qin Yu was on, causing it to howl ferociously. The whip wound around its huge body directly, after which the lightning storm appeared again. Zhuge Hui’s arm trembled suddenly. Right away, the radiance circling around the dragon in the lightning storm turned into many lightning swords and cut the dragon into countless pieces.

The dragon gave out cries of misery and roared continuously. Seeing the scene, the crowd in the distance was astounded. The dragon was a noble-level one, and its physical defense was extremely strong. However, it was cut into many pieces directly by Zhuge Hui’s whip. It was then easy to imagine what the lightning storm could do to a human.

All of a sudden, a wave of Sword Will bloomed in the sky as Fuyun Sword Clan leader stepped forward. Holding the famous sword the Alkaid, he turned into a blade of light and descended from the sky. The silvery light reflected from his sword lit the entire sky as he struck directly towards Zhuge Hui who was attacking Qin Yu.

Sizzle… An extremely appalling Broadsword Will also bloomed. Sword Saint turned into a bolt of lightning and his Broadsword Will penetrated across space. It cut through the silvery blade of light and ascended straight upwards, charging towards Fuyun Sword Clan leader Han Ruoshui.

That year, Sword Saint became famous after battling Han Ruoshui in Fuyun Sword Clan. At the moment, the two were fighting again. Sword Saint was actually more famous than Han Ruoshui now. However, Han Ruoshui had a famous sword, but the Sword Saint did not have any ritual implement.

At the instant when they started fighting, even the sky seemed to be split into pieces. Broadsword Will and Sword Will filled the entire sky. Even though the onlookers were very far from the battle, they could still feel how dangerous the situation was. Sword Saint did not have a ritual implement, but he chose to have a forceful close-ranged combat.

Gu Dongliu’s body flashed as he charged towards Qin Yu directly. His speed was extremely fast, like a mere illusion.

Clang! A violent sound erupted. The first lord of Royal Xuan Temple struck down with a golden bell, blocking Gu Dongliu. The golden bell flew in the sky and a frightening pressure was spreading from it.

“Another sage ritual implement. Does Royal Xuan Temple also have one?” Many people were shocked.

“Maybe it was from Qin Dynasty’s ancient tomb and somehow Royal Xuan Temple first lord got it. Perhaps the sword of Fuyun Sword Clan leader came in the same way.”

“All the three of them have ritual implements. In addition, Qin Yu, Lady Yuxiao, and Lu Nantian had not participated in the battle. It’s no wonder that they dare to come here directly with so much confidence.”

Many people discussed. Nevertheless, the three Cottage disciples were indeed very strong. To deal with them, Qin Dynasty needed so many powerful cultivators as well as the aid from sage ritual implements.

“Look at Sword Saint!” someone exclaimed. The melee combat between Sword Saint and Han Ruoshui even caused space to split apart. As they battled, they rose higher and higher into the sky and were hardly visible. The rest could only see blades of light, as well as the Broadsword Will and Sword Will that had filled the place.

However, Sword Saint’s actions suddenly became much slower, but the Broadsword Will from his body grew in intensity. A broadsword appeared in his hand and his every move looked all natural as he turned the forces in the world into Broadsword Will. When he struck out, a straight beam of light appeared, cutting the sky into two halves. Han Ruoshui struck out wildly with the Alkaid, but his attacks were crushed in the Broadsword Will. Hence, he could only retreat and his situation looked bleak.

“Go and help him,” Qin Yu shouted at the lord from Royal Xuan Temple. On the other hand, he tried to block Gu Dongliu with the dragon spear in his hand.

Gu Dongliu was as famous as him and that time Gu Dongliu even won Lu Nantian, but at the moment Qin Yu had a ritual implement.

“Alright.” The lord from Royal Xuan Temple flashed and struck out at Sword Saint with the golden bell.

Looking at the battle in the sky, many people were speechless. Fuyun Sword Clan leader and the lord from Royal Xuan Temple both had sage ritual implements, and yet they could only barely fight against Sword Saint!

Chapter 384: Off the Mountain Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

 

Qin Yu held the golden dragon spear in his hands as he radiated with a cool, golden light. With sharp, cold eyes, he looked down at Gu Dongliu.

The three senior disciples of the Cottage rattled the Eastern Barren Territory. Today, they would meet their end. With his father keeping everyone in check at the College, no one dared rush to their rescue. When the battle here was finished, they would head over to destroyed the College and the Cottage. It would be a cleansing of the Eastern Barren Territory.

Qin Yu moved and took the form of flashes of golden lightning, breaking into the skies. Before he could even reach Gu Dongliu, the dragon spear released lightning that filled the sky and charged at him like sharp blades.

Gu Dongliu lifted his head, gaze sharpened and his murderous intent filled eyes turned somewhat demonic. In the next moment, Qin Yu entered his line of vision and his opponent’s every move now seemed to be in his control.

All Qin Yu knew was that he could feel shadows appear in his spiritual will. They were like war gods that charged at him. This pissed him off and his heart cooled even more. Spiritual Sorcerers were so annoying. The only way to defend against this type of spiritual attack was with spiritual energy. There was no other way and it was no use trying to dodge out of the way.

HISS! Flashes of lightning emitted from the dragon spear ripped through skies. What followed was the image of the spear shooting forward. A light grew at Gu Dongliu’s feet and as if he had been teleported, he disappeared from where he stood. The spear pierced into a bed of snow, releasing a loud explosion. The ground had been broken and what was left was a terrifying dark hole.

Qin Yu waved the long spear and his body turned with the motion. The lightning seemed to have shifted with the wind and were carried over to a new location, the location where Gu Dongliu was standing.

BOOM! The lightning continued to crackle in the sky. However, each flash only managed to get his shadows as Gu Dongliu moved way too quickly to be caught. His white clothing danced in the wind and the light around his feet was still shining brightly. His hands were held in a mudra. The heavens and earth harmonized and ancient characters began to revolve around his body. It was the character ‘Xing’ of the Kuji-in Nine Seals of Spiritual Power. Each character of the Nine Seals correlated with one mudra, one spell.

Qin Yu’s face fell. He turned slowly and looked at the figure across from him in the sky. He spoke coldly, “Is dodging all you know to do?”

Gu Dongliu stared back at him and all Qin Yu could feel was his body go numb. His spiritual will seemed to be restricted while illusory figures of war gods charged into his mind.

Images of dragons appeared within Qin Yu with a roar. Nine dragons with bright eyes circled and along with these nine dragons, there was also a large, majestic golden dragon. This golden dragon was the Dharma of his Life Spirit.

With loud roars, the dragons, as well as the long spear in his grasp, were on the move. Qin Yu took a step forward and waved his spear once, splitting the skies. However, his attack was still unable to touch Gu Dongliu because he was just too quick.

WHOOSH! The Nine Seals continued to revolve around Gu Dongliu. A bright image of a figure appeared behind him basked in the light from the Nine Seals. Gu Dongliu looked like a deity at this moment.

The Xing character floated in the air and was imprinted on his body. When his environment harmonized, more lines of ancient characters appeared. Following that, Gu Dongliu’s body could be seen zipping through the air, only his shadow could be seen in the vast space. It was beginning to get hard to tell which image of him was real and which were fake. These images all came in front of Qin Yu and were destroyed by the spear in his hands. Then, the images continued to come at him. It was a wild scene to witness as there seemed to be no end to these images of Gu Dongliu.

Behind Qin Yu, the dragons rushed out only to realize that a powerful force of energy gathered which led to the release of war gods. The images of nine war gods graced the skies. They were majestic and formidable with ancient characters revolving around them. They were ready to take on the dragons.

So powerful, thought the crowd as they observed from afar with racing hearts.

They were too powerful. The three eldest disciples of the Cottage were ready to take on the top-dogs of various great forces. The second disciple, Zhuge Hui, a goddess-like beauty, was up against the clan leader of the Donghua Clan. The first disciple, the Sword Saint, fought two men while the third disciple, Gu Dongliu, fought Qin Yu who had a ritual implement.

However, the Qin Dynasty had people who had yet to make their move. Lady Yuxiao watched the battle between Clan Leader Hua and Zhuge Hui. She was ready to tag him out at any time. It was obvious the couple didn’t want to bully a junior cultivator by fighting together. After all, Zhuge Hui could only be considered a junior to them.

Lu Nantian did not make a move either. He observed the battle between Qin Yu and Gu Dongliu. He had fought Gu Dongliu all those years ago in Dongqin College, but Gu Dongliu was much more powerful now. He had already made his way into the grade one Noble Plane. At the same time, he was enlightenment with a sliver of Sage abilities. Although it was just the basics, he was on his way up.

As for the other cultivators, they were all gathered in the air around the battle of the Sword Saint. Better safe than sorry. If both Clan Leader Han Ruoshui of the Fuyun Sword Clan and the first lord of the Royal Xuan Temple couldn’t handle him, they would be ready to attack him as a group. They had their hearts set on coming out victorious in these battles. They could never allow these three eldest disciples of the Cottage to return to the College alive.

The cultivators from the Barren State watched the battles in shock. They were surprised at just how capable the College’s disciples were. They all had Sage abilities. If they were willing to go to the Barren State, it would only be a matter of time that they entered the Sage Plane. Never in a million years did they expect this.

Du Ao eyes were trained on the battlefields. He took notice of Clan Leader Hua and Lady Yuxiao’s abilities. They were extremely powerful indeed. He wondered what they would do if they knew about what he had done to their daughter.

He wasn’t worried though. He had brought quite a lot of powerful cultivators from the Holy Fire Clan. Besides, did they even have the guts to take him on even if they knew?

At the Qianqiu Temple’s campsite, the Arhat had already returned. He took a look at the battlefields and let out an emotionless smile. This was exactly the situation he talked about.

He had another thought: if this situation got even messier, would it be able to start a bigger storm that would drag in the top powers of the Barren State as well?

In the end, the Qin Dynasty and the College would both suffer great losses and may even have their names wiped from the Eastern Barren Territory. This way, the Qianqiu Temple, the Witch Clan, and the Ji Family would be the only top powers left in the Eastern Barren Territory.

“What are you thinking about?” asked a monk when he saw the little twinkle in the Arhat’s eyes.

“I was wondering when our temple would be able to spread throughout the Eastern Barren Territory and receive the respect of the people,” answered the Arhat.

“Buddhism reaches those who were fated for it. There is no need to be greedy for the respect of the people. Fate comes from Buddha. If it’s not fated to be, there is no need to force it,” explained the monk who now held his hands together. “Do you know why our temple is built in the Western Region of the Eastern Barren Territory, facing Sky Mountain and why we refuse to move elsewhere?”

“To use the evilness from Sky Mountain to strengthen our hearts for Buddhism. To be unaffected by the invasion of evils is the fruit of our labors,” said the Arhat.

“There is one more reason. With a clear heart, you will be able to see your true self. Knowing your true self will help rid yourself of all inner evils. Those cultivating in Buddhism have no need in the business of the material world,” said the monk. He held his Buddhist beads tightly and closed his eyes.

“Thank you for your advice, abbot.” The Arhat put his hands together and bowed his head lightly at the head monk. Naturally, he understood the meaning behind the abbot’s words.

…

On Sky Mountain, Ye Futian’s group made their way off the mountain at an unusual speed despite the ground being covered in snow. In no time, they were halfway there. This was when they noticed a figure seated quietly among the snow and boulders of the mountain. The person was covered in a thick layer of white snow. All that could be seen through the thick blanket of precipitation were a pair of beautiful eyes.

It was Hua Qingqing. She was waiting.

The Demon Bird was able to find him, so Ye Futian was able to see everything on Sky Mountain. He walked toward her and removed his long, white robe before draping it over the girl.

“It’s cold.” He smiled at her.

Her innocence-filled eyes met his. He has great eyes.

“Thank you.” Hua Qingqing spoke softly. Ye Futian smiled and turned away. He knew the true meaning behind her words of gratitude.

“What a gentleman,” teased Nan Yu. He looked over at Hua Qingqing and lowered his voice. “Such a pity.” In his opinion, she had already fallen to the wrath of Du Ao. It was truly a pity that this innocent, beautiful girl was taken advantage of by a guy like him. Nan Yu’s heart wavered for her, as beauties did to many.

Chu Shang also looked sympathetically at Hua Qingqing. The group then proceeded on their journey off the mountain.

After they left, Hua Qingqing shook the snow on her body before her thin arm, white as snow, reached out. Ye Futian obviously knew that her clothes were half ruined. She put on Ye Futian’s white robe, not caring how it might look to other people. She then followed the footsteps left behind by Ye Futian’s group and headed off the mountain.

At this point, the group reached the side of the mountain and with a giant leap, they were in the air, descending from Sky Mountain by flight. At the foot of the mountain, the camps set by the people seemed so orderly. Three different battles had broken out in the sky. There were the cultivators from the Barren State and the others who observed off to the side. When Ye Futian and the others leaped off the mountain, they landed in the middle of a battle.

“Big brother, second sister, third brother.” Ye Futian froze. He then saw Qin Yu and the others which cause his expression to turn cold. The people of the Qin Dynasty had actually picked a fight with his senior brothers and sister at Sky Mountain.

Du Ao turned his attention in one direction in confusion. That was when he saw Hua Qingqing and smiled in her direction. Hua Qingqing had also seen him but her expression was cold.

She’s actually okay? The Arhat was surprised. He looked at Hua Qingqing and saw the clothes she was wearing. He couldn’t help but let out an interested expression. Could there be a story on Sky Mountain?

Hua Qingqing was wearing Ye Futian’s clothes and she had also purposely lied about Ye Futian’s time on Sky Mountain. The Arhat was sharp at picking up these things and it felt strange. Could something truly interesting have happened at the top of Sky Mountain back then?

Qingqing. From afar, Lu Nantian saw her. Then, he saw the clothes she was wearing and the look on his face changed.

“Capture Ye Futian,” ordered Qin Yu who was in the middle of his battle with Gu Dongliu. Some cultivators who had been observing in the sidelines charged in Ye Futian’s direction.

They really have a death wish.

In the midst of her battle, Zhuge Hui struck down with her long whip, forcing Clan Leader Hua back. She then rushed over to Ye Futian, leaving behind only illusory images of herself.

Clan Leader Hua reached out and his large hand grabbed a figure only to have it disappear in front of his very eyes. Only then did he realize that the figure wasn’t really Zhuge Hui.

He seemed confused for a second, then screamed loudly at the cultivators headed for Ye Futian, “Watch out!” Just as his voice rang out, Zhuge Hui appeared and snapped her long whip in their direction!

Chapter 385: Exposed

 

Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio

Zhuge Hui’s whip swept through the air at the cultivators headed for Ye Futian. All their faces dropped before backing up quickly. The whip was extremely quick. The bright light illuminating the weapon seemed to have transformed into a sharp blade, cutting through the air.

SNAP! The whip landed directly on one of the cultivators. Along with a horrid scream, everyone froze as the witnessed the noble’s body split in half under the impact from the whip. The whip dancing in the sky now seemed like the sharpest, most powerful weapon in the world.

Zhuge Hui flung his body off to the side before she rushed over in Ye Futian’s direction, leaving only split images of herself. At the same time, the Sword Saint’s weapon came down with a terrifying force, giving the Fuyun Sword Clan’s leader and the first lord of the Royal Xuan Temple no choice but to move back. The Sword Saint distanced himself under the power of Sword Will as well. As for Gu Dongliu, Qin Yu had no ability to stop him from leaving the battle at all.

The battles halted abruptly as Zhuge Hui, the Sword Saint, and Gu Dongliu were now all standing in the air in front of Ye Futian. They weren’t going to allow the cultivators of the Qin Dynasty or the Donghua Clan to get close to him. No one from the Donghua Clan seemed to be in rush to continue the battle either.

Clan Leader Hua and Lady Yuxiao’s eyes drifted over to Hua Qingqing. “Qingqing, come here.” The young girl made her way over to Lady Yuxiao.

A look of confusion crossed the couple’s faces when they saw the white robe she was wearing. Lady Yuxiao voiced her confusion, “Qingqing?” Her curiosity on the subject was evident in her eyes. She had seen the same white robe on Ye Futian. He was no longer wearing it, making it obvious that his clothes were now on Hua Qingqing.

Nan Feng, Chu Shang, and the others all focused on Hua Qingqing. She probably didn’t know how to open up about the humiliating and hurtful things that were done to her. It was something that would be difficult for any female. As for Du Ao, he kept up his cold demeanor as he bathed in the light of the holy fire. The fire in his eyes seemed to be masking a hint of mockery.

“Father, Mother, let’s go home,” Hua Qingqing said suddenly. It was indeed something she couldn’t talk about. This wasn’t only a matter of her reputation, but also, how was she going to explain Ye Futian’s clothes? Was she supposed to tell everyone that he saved her? That would only hurt him because then the people of the Barren State would find out that Ye Futian was responsible for what happened with the Demon Bird. That was exactly why Hua Qingqing wished for the battles to end here and she would explain everything to her parents once they returned home.

“Go home?” Clan Leader Hua was confused. “Nantian, bring Qingqing over to the side.” Things with Hua Qingqing could wait until they got home. Finishing this battle was the important thing right now. The three Cottage disciples were much too capable. If they let them go, there would be unthinkable repercussions. Clan Leader Hua knew that if the disciples got a couple more years to cultivate, the three of them would be at the top of the Eastern Barren Territory. This was the reason why Emperor Qin was in such a rush.

Hua Qingqing looked at her father, not knowing what to do. If she confesses that Ye Futian saved her, it would put him in danger, but if she didn’t say anything, her parents would kill him. As for telling her parents the truth about what Du Ao did to her, what would happen if she did? Would her parents declare war on the powers of the Barren State? It may lead to the end of the Donghua Clan at the end.

From her eyes, one could tell that Hua Qingqing was extremely conflicted. She didn’t know what to do.

At this moment, Qin Yu was staring at her. She was actually wearing Ye Futian’s clothes. It seems this girl isn’t as pure and innocent as she lets on. Qin Yu’s younger sister Qin Mengruo married Qian Shanmu of the Donghua Clan and was killed. What did Hua Qingqing do? She hid the truth about what Ye Futian did on Sky Mountain. It looked as if something they weren’t aware of definitely happened on Sky Mountain last year. However, Qin Yu did not come out to point fingers at Hua Qingqing right now. It could be dealt with later. What he needed now was to use the abilities of Clan Leader Hua and his wife to defeat the Sword Saint and his juniors.

Just then, the Arhat noticed the stalemate they were in from where he stood at the Qianqiu Temple campsite. He looked up at the cultivators from the Barren State and asked, “Have you guys been on Sky Mountain?” Those from the Barren State turned to look at the Arhat, listening as he continued to speak. “With two people who have been on the mountain before leading the way, there’s no way you guys wouldn’t be able to make it up Sky Mountain.”

“We were attacked by a Demon Bird,” said Nan Feng.

“Demon Bird?” A look crossed the Arhat’s face before his eyes moved toward Ye Futian. That’s when he noticed that Ye Futian was also looking at himself with chilling eyes.

In this instant, Ye Futian suddenly realized who had tattled. He never thought it would be the Arhat of the Qianqiu Temple. He should have guessed.

“I get it now,” said the Arhat. His eyes moved away and folded his hands. He chanted the name of Buddha and said nothing else.

“What does that mean?” asked Nan Yu.

“I can’t say.” The Arhat shook his head.

Nan Yu’s brows knit together in confusion. Han Lan of the Taixuan Mountain spoke next, “If you know something, say it.”

“You wouldn’t believe it even if I were to tell you. Also, I wouldn’t be very well-liked after saying so. I am not yet a very experienced monk and can’t take the hatred that would result from telling,” the Arhat shook his head once more.

“Kongming,” the Qianqiu Temple’s abbot looked at the Arhat and called out for him. The Arhat’s monastic name was Kongming.

Du Ao moved toward the Qianqiu Temple group while the Three-legged Golden Raven and the cultivators of the Holy Fire Clan followed behind him. Looking down at the Arhat, Du Ao said, “Say it and I can guarantee that no one will be able to hurt you.”

“The abbot forbids me from speaking about it,” the Arhat shook his head yet again. “I’m afraid that the abbot would be held responsible for what I have to say. How would I continue to cultivate at the temple after that?”

“You can come with me to the Barren State and join our Holy Fire Clan for cultivation,” said Du Ao.

The Arhat looked around and saw that Nan Feng had also approached. “I can also guarantee not to let anyone hurt you.” The Arhat bowed his head slighting and then bowed deeply at the Qianqiu Temple’s abbot. “Abbot, monks don’t lie. I have to speak the truth.” After that, he turned back to Du Ao. “There is no Demon Bird on Sky Mountain.”

“Do you think we’re blind?” Nan Yu spoke coldly. He was attacked by the Demon Bird and also suffered injuries.

“The Qianqiu Temple has been in the Western Region, facing Sky Mountain, for years now. No one is more knowledgeable on the matters of Sky Mountain. There is only the will left by the Demon Bird, but it’s not actually here. If you guys don’t believe me, you can ask the abbot,” said the Arhat. Everyone’s attention shifted to the abbot immediately. All they saw was that he had his hands clasped tightly and that he was chanting the name of Buddha. He was greatly disappointed.

“Wise monk,” Nan Yu called to the abbot.

“Observing Sky Mountain can help you understand your heart and see who you really are. For the looks of it, Kongming, you already know your own heart,” said the abbot.

The Arhat nodded and replied, “I do.”

“If so, then you can go now,” said the abbot.

“Thank you for everything.” The Arhat bowed again. Of course, he understood his own heart. The more he cultivated in Buddhism, the clearer things became. Buddha says that all living creatures are equal but where was this equality? People only respected those of high status. Cultivating Buddhism was simply a pursuit of power for him.

Now that it was clear to him that the Qianqiu Temple had no ambitions, there was nothing left for him there. Plus, there were also the changes in the Eastern Barren Territory. Buddha talks about chance. His chance was here now.

“Let’s go,” said the abbot. He turned to leave, leading the others of the Qianqiu Temple with him. Many of them looked back at the Arhat. His comprehension of Buddhism was so great. The Arhat was able to comprehend the true meaning of scriptures easily and was even given the title of Arhat because of that. However, it seemed like he was also extremely capable in hiding who he really was. What a pity.

The people from the Barren State watched as all this unfolded and knew that what the Arhat said must be true. Du Ao spoke, “Continue what you were saying.”

“I already said that Hua Qingqing was not the only one who had made it onto Sky Mountain, so had Ye Futian. In reality, they weren’t the only ones.” He moved on to explain further, “When Ye Futian tried to kill the Qin Dynasty’s Qin Li on Sky Mountain, he was already at wit’s end. He couldn’t fight anymore and was being chased by Hua Qingqing. There to protect Ye Futian, was fellow Cottage disciple, Yu Sheng. In his group, was also a demon beast, the Black Wind Eagle. The beast turned into the Demon Bird in order to protect Ye Futian. It wounded Hua Qingqing and I before flying onto Sky Mountain. Then, Ye Futian and Yu Sheng continued onto the mountain as well. Hua Qingqing also resumed her chase, following behind them.”

The Arhat continued, “If you don’t believe me, you can ask Qin Li’s father, Qi Yu. It was him that told you guys Hua Qingqing made it onto Sky Mountain. Then again, you can also ask Hua Qingqing, but in my opinion, something must have happened between her and Ye Futian on the mountain. Otherwise, there is no way his clothes would end up on her.”

Abruptly, Du Ao’s face turned green. As did, Nan Feng and Nan Yu’s faces. After listening to the Arhat’s explanation, they believed a good half of what he said. So, there wasn’t a Demon Bird on Sky Mountain at all. Then where did the one they saw come from?

“That Demon Bird saved Hua Qingqing,” muttered Du Ao. Nan Feng and the others felt enlightened as everything suddenly seemed so clear.

The Demon Bird appeared suddenly on Sky Mountain and saved Hua Qingqing. Then, Ye Futian put his clothes on her. How funny. They had thought that Ye Futian was simply being a gentleman. It seemed as if they were too naïve. They had been played by a youngster from the Eastern Barren Territory.

Interesting. Nan Yu clapped and turned around slowly. His eyes stared in Ye Futian’s direction. Interesting indeed. He brought them onto Sky Mountain and had the Demon Bird attack them, wounding them. No wonder he kept trying to get them to keep climbing up.

Du Ao’s eyes were chilling and radiated with a murderous intent.

That Demon Bird almost killed him. Maybe Ye Futian wasn’t gutsy enough to kill everyone, but if just one person was killed, there was no way anyone would suspect it was his doing. Plus, there were others present. Who would have thought that he almost died in the Eastern Barren Territory?

Ye Futian didn’t look at them because his eyes were trained on the Arhat. After the Arhat spilled the beans, everything was now out in the open. Ye Futian could no longer hide anything. Why did he do this?

Zhuge Hui and Gu Dongliu were also staring at the Arhat with a cold demeanor. However, the Arhat had already hopped on the Three-legged Golden Raven along with Du Ao. He had betrayed the Qianqiu Temple. He saw this as his chance to leave the Eastern Barren Territory and was now heading to the Barren State for cultivation.

“You tricked me and got me on Sky Mountain. Then, the Demon Bird attacked. Did you want me dead?” Nan Yu asked Ye Futian. His smile was ingenuine.

“Are you serious?” Nan Yu’s eyes filled with a murderous intent.

Cultivators of various Barren State powers moved toward Ye Futian. That was when Nan Feng spoke up. “And we thought you didn’t get the relics of Sky Mountain. Looks like we underestimated you. What did you get from Sky Mountain?”