The Black Rock Cliff faction were staunch, unwavering supporters of the Flowing Cloud Sea Peak. Under any other circumstance, the Mighty Sea Peak faction would have stepped forward to wholeheartedly defend the Black Rock Cliff. However, this was the Grand Assembly of the Blood Rain Sect!

The moment the antidote appeared on Dan Bo, the fact that he had used poison during the duel became undeniable. In this situation, Dan Bo could offer no defense; not only would he suffer the consequences, but the entire Black Rock Cliff faction would be implicated by his actions.

Under the watchful eyes of everyone present, even the Flowing Cloud Sea Peak, with all its immense power within the Blood Rain Alliance, could not protect him!

If the Flowing Cloud Sea Peak dared to voice any objection at this critical juncture, it would be seen as challenging the rules of the Blood Rain Alliance and making enemies of all the sectarian forces on Blood Rain Mountain!

The Flowing Cloud Sea Peak dared not… Taking a deep breath, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak deliberately avoided looking at He Hao-ran, who was practically ecstatic, or Bai Li-xiu. His eyes were fixed solely on Ji Chang-kong, whose face had darkened and contorted in apparent agony. “The younger wave pushes the older wave… Young man, ruthless! Vicious!” After a long pause, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak managed to squeeze out these words from between his teeth. He then turned and walked away without sparing a glance for Dan Bo, who was still loudly proclaiming his innocence.

As Sun Yan’s backer, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak was naturally aware of the poisoning methods employed by Sun Yan and his group. If any evidence could have been found, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak would have stopped them long ago. In fact, as late as last night, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak had personally tested the poison that Ji Chang-kong had been afflicted with, and even he had nodded in approval!

Clearly, the obvious signs of poisoning on Ji Chang-kong’s person could not have originated from Dan Bo.

Flowing Cloud Sea Peak understood in his heart that from the very beginning, the one surnamed Chang-kong had planned to frame Dan Bo and, by extension, the Black Rock Cliff faction! The only difference was that the method he used was exceptionally ruthless—testing the poison on himself! Moreover, the poison he deployed was quite potent, and he must have ingested it before even entering the Chasm Valley!

In the vast Blood Rain Mountain, many people had suffered losses at the hands of the Black Rock Cliff group, and many were familiar with their tactics. Some had even considered trying such a gambit, but no one had dared to test the poison on their own body?

Ingesting the poison before entering the Chasm Valley, utterly fearless of death, and then subtly slipping the antidote into Dan Bo’s chest amidst the swirling dust during the fight—such methods, such sheer ruthlessness—who would dare to play such a game?

He dared!

Thus, he had utterly destroyed the Black Rock Cliff faction!

“The antidote…” Ji Chang-kong, lying on the ground in feigned agony, looked pitifully toward the ecstatic He Hao-ran, blinking rapidly to signal him.

Suppressing the restless surge of his bloodline using his internal elemental energy was an agonizing task. If the bloodline power erupted before he could swallow the antidote, wouldn't all his efforts be for naught?

He Hao-ran finally snapped back to reality, quickly crouching down and handing over the ‘antidote’ he held. “You little devil, you are too ruthless, too poisonous! Damn it, how did you pull this off? Everyone knows the Black Rock Cliff harms people, but we could never catch them in the act. You, boy, ha! Taught by Elder He, you truly are formidable!” He Hao-ran praised him in a low voice.

Bringing the ‘antidote’ close to his lips and making a show of taking it, Ji Chang-kong finally no longer needed to desperately suppress the blood surging within him. Miraculously, in just a short while, the black tinge on his face gradually shifted back to a dusky color, and soon after, his complexion returned to normal, showing no trace of his previous weakness.

“The younger generation is awe-inspiring, truly awe-inspiring!” Bai Li-ke chuckled, praising in a voice audible only to the three of them: “Chang-kong, that move was beautifully executed! You’ve just slapped Flowing Cloud Sea Peak across the face. Coupled with forcing the Yao family out yesterday, ha, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak must be weeping over this loss…” “If someone forces my hand, I will be utterly decisive!” Ji Chang-kong stated with a calm expression and an indifferent tone.

Bai Li-ke gasped inwardly. Looking at those unmoving, indifferent eyes, he knew that the rise of the Ji family within Blood Rain Mountain would be unstoppable by anyone.

“Too vicious; this fellow is practically a jinx. Whoever crosses him is doomed. Yesterday it was the Yao family, today it’s Black Rock Cliff. Who will it be tomorrow?”

“Ha, that was satisfying! Scum like the Black Rock Cliff deserve a severe lesson. Last time, I suffered a hidden loss and had to accept it as fate. They finally ran into someone even more cunning!”

“Damn it, I hope we don’t run into the Ji family tomorrow. With this kid stirring things up, who would dare contend with his Ji family? Whoever touches them dies!”

“…” The surrounding murmurs were full of excitement and praise… everyone except those aligned with Flowing Cloud Sea Peak.

“Brother Sun, the situation has come to this; I can do nothing more to salvage it. I apologize…” Flowing Cloud Sea Peak looked helpless as he personally escorted Sun Yan and the rest of the Black Rock Cliff group outside the Chasm Valley. Meanwhile, the battles continued inside the Chasm Valley, drawing little attention to their departure.

Losers rarely receive much focus, especially a faction about to be purged from the Blood Rain Alliance.

“It is an honor that Brother Flowing Cloud comes to see me off at this juncture. My presence in the Blood Rain Alliance was entirely due to Flowing Cloud’s assistance, and I feel quite ashamed for not being able to offer Brother Flowing Cloud sufficient support in the Alliance,” Sun Yan shook his head, then his face hardened. “Even if our brothers are not thriving on Blood Rain Mountain, we will still have a foothold elsewhere. As long as we dare to kill and fight, we won’t starve anywhere. Damn Ji Chang-kong, damn the Ji family, I swear I will have my revenge!”

“Before leaving Blood Rain Mountain, Brother Sun, take a detour to Profound Origin Valley and flatten it for me,” Flowing Cloud Sea Peak smiled gently. “Consider it collecting some preliminary interest. As for those Ji family members in the Chasm Valley, rest assured, Brother Sun, I will give you an explanation sooner or later!” “That is precisely what I intended!” Sun Yan sneered.

“Farewell, Brother Sun. Even if you are no longer on Blood Rain Mountain, you can come to me anytime you run into trouble in the future. If I can help, I will certainly not refuse!” Flowing Cloud Sea Peak clapped Sun Yan’s shoulder, maintaining an air of unchanged camaraderie.

“Brother Sun is a man who seeks great things; I admire that!” Sun Yan cupped his hands and departed without delay with the rest of the Black Rock Cliff members.

“Head back to Black Rock Cliff first and prepare. Before leaving Blood Rain Mountain, we will wash the Ji family in blood!” Sun Yan commanded coldly after leaving Flowing Cloud Sea Peak.

“Big Brother, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak is setting us up! If we seize this chance to eliminate Profound Origin Valley, we will certainly become mortal enemies of the Blood Rain Alliance,” Ba Jun said, his eyes darting as he tried to persuade him. “Big Brother, if we wipe out the Ji family, it’s uncertain if we can even leave this part of Blood Rain Mountain.” “Rest assured, you underestimate Flowing Cloud Sea Peak. With him in the Blood Rain Alliance, we can destroy the Ji family without fear. Damn it, I cannot swallow this insult! We’ve drifted for so many years and finally found a place to settle down, only to be driven out by a mere child barely out of his teens!”

Sun Yan clapped Ba Jun’s shoulder, comforting him. “Don’t be so agitated. We will return someday. In this vast Yu Clan territory, only Flowing Cloud Sea Peak has enough scheming depth and ruthlessness in his methods! He Hao-ran is too sanctimonious; he’s weighed down by scruples in his actions and can never achieve true greatness! Bai Li-ke, though full of bad intentions, lacks the necessary ruthlessness in his execution; he messes around but can never achieve anything significant!”

“Just watch. Flowing Cloud Sea Peak is nearly ready. I believe it won’t be long before Flowing Cloud Sea Peak truly calls the shots in the Blood Rain Alliance. Once he gains complete control, our chances of returning are not zero. At that time, we will follow his instructions; we won’t be wrong.” “Big Brother, on Blood Rain Mountain, there is one other person who is ruthless and possesses extraordinary courage…” Ba Jun hesitated, sighing softly.

“Who?” Sun Yan’s expression shifted slightly.

“Ji Chang-kong,” Ba Jun’s voice dropped even lower.

“Him?” Sun Yan looked disdainful and shook his head. “The kid is indeed capable, but he’s still too young. The Ji family lacks the foundation to support his rise! He won’t even have time to truly make a mark before Flowing Cloud Sea Peak plays him out. Ultimately, their Ji family’s power is too weak! Heh heh, if you can see his potential, how could Flowing Cloud Sea Peak not see it? Isn’t our trip to Profound Origin Valley precisely intended to follow Flowing Cloud Sea Peak’s lead and lop off the Ji family’s roots?” Ba Jun was momentarily stunned, then broke into a wry smile. That was true; if Profound Origin Valley was destroyed, with just a few of them left, they truly couldn't cause much of a stir.

“Let’s go, back to Black Rock Cliff. Gather our brothers, and then we will cleanse Profound Origin Valley with blood!” Sun Yan roared coldly.

The first day of the duels finally drew to a close. Although the Black Rock Cliff faction was forced out of the Blood Rain Alliance by Ji Chang-kong, the sects allied with Flowing Cloud Sea Peak secured more victories, while the Ji family and the Star Stone Sect lagged behind.

“I didn’t realize Flowing Cloud Sha had accumulated so much power. Without this Sect Assembly, I would never have believed Flowing Cloud Sea Peak could reach this level!” Bai Li-ke exclaimed at the Ji family gathering point.

He Hao-ran frowned deeply, also troubled. “This time, it was all thanks to Chang-kong. If Chang-kong hadn’t forcefully driven the Black Rock Cliff out of Blood Rain Mountain, the arrogance of the Flowing Cloud Sha faction would likely be even more rampant. Without Chang-kong, after today’s battle, more sects would probably lean toward Flowing Cloud Sha, right?”

“Young man, how did you manage that? Ingesting the poison before entering the Chasm Valley, defeating Dan Bo, and then placing the antidote on his chest amidst the flying dust—how did you accomplish all that?” Bai Li-ke also looked amazed when mentioning Ji Chang-kong.

“That fellow is full of tricks; he excels at these kinds of insidious schemes…” Bai Li-xiu wrinkled her nose with a look of disdain.

As soon as today’s duels concluded, He Hao-ran, bringing He Zhi-zhang and He Li-pan, and Bai Li-ke, bringing his daughter Bai Li-xiu, came to visit the Ji family’s gathering area. As if by prior arrangement, the two sides greeted each other with smiles and nods, appearing to have reached a tacit agreement.

“That is called wisdom!” Bai Li-ke glared at his daughter and sighed. “Alas, why doesn't my Star Stone Sect have such a daring and capable young man? Xiuer, you must learn more from people in the future, instead of idling around all day!”

“Nephew Chang-kong, Xiuer is slow-witted; please instruct her more in the future.” Bai Li-ke looked at Ji Chang-kong with sparkling eyes and a smiling face.

“Uh… It was sheer luck, just luck,” Ji Chang-kong waved his hands with a wry smile under the furious gaze of Bai Li-xiu. “Uncle Bai Li flatters me too much.”

“Hmph, I don’t want to learn bad habits!” Bai Li-xiu tossed her head proudly. After a moment’s hesitation, she added, “But that dark face Sun Yan had when he left, hehe, that was truly satisfying! Good job, bad guy!”

“Speaking of which…” He Hao-ran’s expression turned serious. “Chang-kong, Sun Yan is a petty and vengeful man. I fear he will cause trouble for your Ji family.”

“Indeed, Sun Yan will never give up easily. Chang-kong, while you are in the Chasm Valley, Sun Yan is very likely to target Profound Origin Valley!” Bai Li-ke also grew grave. “We came over precisely to discuss this with you. We plan to send people to your Profound Origin Valley, but you must arrange for someone to return there to prevent any misunderstandings if something happens and your Ji family members don't understand our position.”

“You are all in the Chasm Valley; Profound Origin Valley certainly lacks the strength to cope with the Black Rock Cliff’s retaliation! I know Sun Yan well; he won’t leave Blood Rain Mountain this easily,” He Hao-ran frowned deeply. “I’m afraid Flowing Cloud Sea Peak might intervene again. The power Flowing Cloud Sea Peak commands is not as simple as what we see. Over the years, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak has taken in many vicious and wicked men; we are aware of this. If he seizes this chance to send people over, the situation will become extremely troublesome.”

“I appreciate the good intentions of you both, but please do not trouble yourselves over this matter, nor send anyone to Profound Origin Valley. My Ji family is not so easily destroyed,” Ji Chang-kong shook his head, his expression gradually turning cold. “If Sun Yan wants to go to Profound Origin Valley, let him go. Once he goes to Profound Origin Valley, he will never leave Blood Rain Mountain!”

At these words, He Hao-ran and Bai Li-ke looked astonished, as did He Li-pan, He Zhi-zhang, and Bai Li-xiu. Even Ji Yu-xing, Ji Yu-sheng, and other Ji family members, who didn't know Mu Luo’s true strength, were momentarily stunned, staring at him strangely. Only Mo Yun-yi and Han Hai, who had some grasp of Mu Luo’s real power, showed no surprise, though their expressions held some worry.

“This… this, Chang-kong, be honest with Uncle He, do you really—really have the confidence to handle the people from the Black Rock Cliff?” He Hao-ran asked after a long period of thought.

“Uncle He, just watch. If Sun Yan and his group go to Profound Origin Valley, not a single one will return alive!” Ji Chang-kong stated with finality.

He Hao-ran, Bai Li-ke, and their entourage left full of doubt. As soon as they were gone, Ji Yu-xing, Ji Yu-sheng, and the others hurried to question Ji Chang-kong about the source of his confidence, eager to understand Mu Luo’s true capabilities.

“An Eight Trigram Heaven Master, plus thirty-seven Star Heaven Masters—is that not enough weight?” Ji Chang-kong grinned, the smile holding a sharp edge.

Ji Yu-xing and Ji Yu-sheng were instantly speechless. While they knew Mu Luo and the others were extraordinary, they hadn't realized their strength was this immense!

“Chang-kong, those people are foreigners from the Western Regions. If they show themselves, won’t that be problematic?” Mo Yun-yi frowned, looking deeply concerned.

“Rest assured, I have instructed Mu Luo and the others not to reveal their true faces. As long as no one has seen their real appearance, there will be no issues. Once we secure the new cultivation paradise, Mu Luo will dissipate completely, and no one will ever know that foreigners were the ones who acted,” Ji Chang-kong was fully confident. “But what if Flowing Cloud Sea Peak presses hard and insists on discovering the identity of those outsiders?” Mo Yun-yi remained uneasy. “Flowing Cloud Sea Peak is absolutely not someone to trifle with. He will certainly find ways to seize any leverage against us. If he persists, how can Mu Luo remain hidden?”

“In a short time, Heaven Masters of the Seven Star realm whose faces are not foreign will come to pledge allegiance to our Ji family as retainers. Then, whatever Mu Luo and the others do can be attributed to them,” he said with a smile, glancing at the rest of the Ji family. “As for the appearance of the Eight Trigram Heaven Master—if someone insists on pursuing the matter, I will pin it on another person. On Blood Rain Mountain, no one dares to cause trouble for him. If Flowing Cloud Sea Peak dares to pursue it to the end, well, that would be for the best…” After he finished speaking, all the Ji family members were dumbfounded. They didn't know why Seven Star Heaven Masters would come to pledge allegiance, nor did they know who the person Ji Chang-kong referred to was. They stared at him, filled with confusion. Only Mo Yun-yi vaguely grasped the situation. After pondering for a moment, she said, “Since you already have a plan in mind, I won't say more. It seems you have truly matured… No need for this old woman to worry about replacing your heart anymore. Very good, this old woman increasingly believes the Ji family has a future in rising up!”

The next day, the Sect Assembly proceeded as scheduled.

Following Ji Chang-kong’s display yesterday, no one dared to underestimate the Ji family again. Moreover, before the Ji family’s next match, a representative from their opponent even came over with an extremely cordial attitude, stating that the duel was merely sparring and they should avoid harming any harmony.

This small sect, called the Cloud Gathering Sect, remained neutral, not aligning with any of the three major powers. The Cloud Gathering Sect had discerned the Ji family’s soaring status from the attitudes of He Hao-ran and Bai Li-ke, and they recognized how difficult the Ji family was to provoke from Ji Chang-kong’s ruthless demeanor. To avoid angering the Ji family and to ensure the Cloud Gathering Sect could secure a place on Blood Rain Mountain in the future, they certainly knew how to conduct themselves.

This battle involved no intricate conspiracies or tricks; both sides showed restraint during the combat.

Only three matches—just three—and the Ji family concluded their fight.

Ji Chang-xiao won, Ji Lan-yun won, and in the third match, Ji Wan-yun competed and also won!

After three victories, the Ji family naturally won the battle once more. Ji Yu-xing, who had been nervous, didn't get a chance to fight, allowing him another day of rest.

“Ji Family versus Moon Shadow Sect!” After the Sect Assembly concluded, He Hao-ran announced the Ji family’s next opponent. The Moon Shadow Sect was another renowned sect on Blood Rain Mountain, immensely powerful, second only to the He family, the Star Stone Sect, and the Flowing Cloud Sha faction, advancing and retreating in close concert with the Flowing Cloud Sha.

Once He Hao-ran finished speaking, all participating families keenly focused on tomorrow’s battle. The Moon Shadow Sect, considered Flowing Cloud Sea Peak’s sharpest weapon, was widely regarded in secret as the strongest contender for one of the three cultivation paradises among all the participating forces.

“Rest well tonight. Tomorrow’s battle will be very difficult,” He Hao-ran approached the Ji family, patted Ji Chang-kong’s shoulder, and murmured, “It’s best not to drag the fight to the final match. The Sect Master of Moon Shadow, Tong Qian, has profound cultivation—even stronger than Sun Yan. He can achieve Spirit Travel to the Fifth Star!”

“Understood…” Ji Chang-kong glanced at Mo Yun-yi and secretly resolved to secure the victory within four matches.

That night, He Zhi-zhang, acting on He Hao-ran’s orders, again came to the Ji family residence to explain the situation regarding the Moon Shadow Sect.

The Moon Shadow Sect, an established sect of the Blood Rain Alliance, possessed formidable strength, with experts anchoring every generation. Apart from not having an Eight Trigram Heaven Master among their ranks, their overall strength was not far inferior to the He family’s. Flowing Cloud Sea Peak dared to challenge the He family and the Star Stone Sect precisely because he had the Moon Shadow Sect’s covert support.

This battle might very well determine whether the Ji family could obtain a cultivation paradise and which one they would secure! The Ji family members all looked grave, treating tomorrow’s fight as critically important!

At the Moon Shadow Sect assembly grounds.

The Moon Shadow Sect Master, Tong Qian, and the sect’s experts sat solemnly facing the Flowing Cloud Sha Sect Master, Flowing Cloud Sea Peak.

“If possible, cripple Ji Chang-kong,” Flowing Cloud Sea Peak frowned deeply as he looked at Tong Qian opposite him.

“I will certainly do my utmost!” Tong Qian replied with a grave expression. “This child is cunning and acts unpredictably, often achieving astonishing results. That’s not the most worrying part… Because of this child’s emergence, the He family and the Star Stone Sect are growing closer. If we let him continue his reckless actions, it will greatly impact our grand plan.”

“Only Brother Tong truly understands the intentions of Sea Peak…” Flowing Cloud Sea Peak expressed his satisfaction.

“Yuwen Mengjian, tomorrow’s duel, commit all your strength. Exert every effort to cripple that boy!” Tong Qian glanced sharply at a giant sitting rigidly beside him and commanded decisively.

“Sect Master, rest assured. After tomorrow, Ji Chang-kong will be a useless wreck!” Yuwen Mengjian declared with resolute conviction.

Yuwen Mengjian sat there, a head taller than most men, his clothes stretched tautly by his muscles almost to bursting, conveying a sense of stony steadfastness. However, his eyes were like those of a starving wolf, gleaming fiercely!

“Peak of the Five Elements Heaven realm, his great sword has no edge, his strength can split mountains. Tomorrow’s fight rests on you!” Flowing Cloud Sea Peak clapped his hands and whistled softly, smiling broadly.

The members of the Moon Shadow Sect on this side all looked confident, appearing entirely assured in Yuwen Mengjian.

“Go all out. If you truly cannot hold back, just kill him—don’t worry about the consequences; I will handle it,” Flowing Cloud Sea Peak patted Yuwen Mengjian’s shoulder and instructed softly before departing leisurely.

“Kill him? Can he be killed? That boy and that other person…” After Flowing Cloud Sea Peak left, a middle-aged man resembling a scholar quietly asked Tong Qian for his opinion.

"No need to worry about him; he's currently struggling to manage his own affairs and has no energy left to concern himself with what's happening on our side." "The Guiyuan Sect is hunting him everywhere; we shouldn't be afraid!" Tong Gan hesitated for a moment before making up his mind.

The next day, the Earth Split Chasm.

The rounds of matches proceeded as scheduled. Liu Yunhaifeng sat perched on the rocks lining the valley sides, looking down upon the chasm, observing the ongoing bouts, and frequently glancing toward the Ji family positioned outside the valley. His eyes passed over Ji Changkong multiple times.

For every victory secured by a sect affiliated with Liu Yunhaifeng, his expression eased by a degree.

"Chang Kong, be careful. I noticed Liu Yunhaifeng keeps looking over here, his gaze lingering on you repeatedly. Could he be plotting some trick again?" Xing Kaiyi expressed her concern, her tone heavy.

"Granny Mo, you can rest assured. After the Black Rock Cliff incident, I believe Liu Yunhaifeng ought to be more subdued. Even if he intends to use stratagems, he will likely act openly now. Petty tricks are useless when everyone is watching," Ji Changkong chuckled. "I hope so..." Mo Yunyi nodded gravely.

"The Ji Family versus the Blood Moon Sect!" Finally, He Haoran called out the names of the two sects the crowd had long awaited.

The crowd stirred with renewed energy, their gazes simultaneously locking onto the Blood Moon Sect and the Ji family members. Everyone watched these two factions closely. Some individuals with ulterior motives hoped that the outcome of this particular sect grand gathering would dictate their future course: whether to align with Liu Yunsha, or pledge allegiance to the He family—it all depended on the specifics of this match.

"First match: Ji Changxiao versus Chu Xiang!" He Haoran announced again.

Ji Changxiao stood up abruptly, leading the charge toward the Earth Split Chasm. His face was resolute. After the battles of the past two days, Ji Changxiao’s confidence had grown immensely. Having diligently cultivated the "Limit Body Tempering Great Law" for several months, he deeply comprehended the profound essence of the Law and truly felt its benefits.

When he was previously within the Ji family, he had never truly acknowledged this younger brother. However, through recent interactions, there were only two words to describe his feeling toward this brother: submission!

Whether in terms of strength, temperament, comprehension, or capability, this younger brother’s performance far surpassed his own! Deep down, he recognized the vital role Ji Changkong played for the Ji family. After cultivating the Great Law for a period, he admired Ji Changkong to the point of prostration, realizing this brother had long surpassed the Si Ling generation.

"Big Brother, go for it!" As he was about to enter the Earth Split Chasm, Ji Changkong called out softly.

"I will. I will win! At the Three Talents Heaven Realm, I fear no one anymore!" Ji Changxiao’s face was full of self-assurance. He suddenly flashed a dashing smile, as if the heavy burden that had weighed upon him for so many years in the Ji family had suddenly lifted.

Chu Xiang was at the peak of the Three Talents Heaven Realm. Chu Xiang had won every single match for the Blood Moon Sect leading up to this point! This was a terrifying opponent whose strength was absolutely no less than Ji Changxiao’s!

The battle commenced the very instant Ji Changxiao stepped into the Earth Split Chasm!

Unlike the dozens of opponents Ji Changxiao had faced before, Chu Xiang specialized in offense, launching a relentless assault right from the start—a continuous tempest of attacks. All around, blade lights materialized, each blade manifesting as a willow leaf shape, purely condensed from sharp Primordial Energy, sweeping down like a deluge, enveloping Ji Changxiao from all directions.

Chu Xiang possessed exquisite secret techniques and profound Primordial Energy, being at the peak of the Three Talents Heaven Realm, and his combat experience was exceptionally rich. As soon as Chu Xiang attacked, Ji Yuxing and Ji Yusheng immediately looked grim, and Ji Haohong and Ji Haoguang also changed expression. Both could perceive how formidable Chu Xiang was; not only was his raw power astounding at such a young age, but he also possessed a fierce momentum of charging forward without looking back—definitely a ruthless character.

"Changxiao's battle will be arduous..." Ji Yuxing sighed quietly.

"Second Elder, please have faith in Changxiao. He will surely triumph!" Bietou smiled at Ji Yuxing. Among all these people, he was the only one who remained completely confident. From the moment Ji Changxiao awoke from the 'hell' of the "Limit Body Tempering Great Law" and asked him for the Black Jade Primal Crystal, he knew that when it came to being ruthless and unforgiving toward oneself, very few could surpass his elder brother!

What unfolded in the Earth Split Chasm surprised everyone. Ji Changxiao, surrounded by waves of willow-leaf blade lights, suddenly dropped his defense and burst violently through the array of attacks!

Puff! Puff!

In an instant, Ji Changxiao’s sleeves were shredded, blood erupted from his arms and lower abdomen, and even his neck was grazed by a blade light, weeping a chilling crimson.

The stinging pain seemed entirely detached from him. At the moment the blade lights struck, Ji Changxiao’s expression remained placid, not revealing a shred of agony; his movements were completely unaffected. His resolute eyes remained fixed on Chu Xiang. Overcoming the cascade of blade lights, paying the price of physical injury, he finally burst through the array, drenched in his own blood.

Ji Changxiao, who had maintained a defensive posture, closed the distance to Chu Xiang with sudden, almost frantic speed. A faint green light erupted violently, causing massive stones near them to fly up and collide, shattering into a cloud of debris. Amidst this flying detritus, Ji Changxiao rammed his head into another net meticulously woven by Chu Xiang's blade lights, accumulating yet more wounds across his body.

Chu Xiang specialized in offense, but not in close-quarters combat! Judging by the previous matches, Chu Xiang was profoundly unfamiliar with brutal, hand-to-hand fighting. He always relied on condensing his deep reserves of Primordial Energy into blade lights to meet his foes. In prior bouts, no one had managed to breach the ring formed by his energy blades, and all opponents eventually collapsed from exhaustion.

Blood sprayed as Ji Changxiao advanced fearlessly through the barrage of blade lights. Less refined in his control of Primordial Energy than Chu Xiang, his protective green light could only deflect a portion of the incoming strikes. By the time he neared Chu Xiang, he was already covered in blood, almost transformed into a living crimson figure.

Yet, even at this moment, Ji Changxiao’s face betrayed no hint of pain, as if the wounds were inflicted upon someone else.

All spectators were stunned by Ji Changxiao’s condition. At this moment, Ji Changxiao was undoubtedly the most dazzling figure. The masters gathered on Blood Rain Mountain realized for the first time that besides Ji Changkong, the Ji family possessed another terrifying young talent!

It was not just the onlookers who were shocked; even Chu Xiang showed a flicker of alarm. Staring at the attacker who charged forward heedless of death, Chu Xiang displayed panic for the first time. His precise control over his Primordial Energy began to slip below its usual standard, and the meticulously woven defensive circle revealed flaws!

Ji Changxiao’s pupils contracted, and he darted in fiercely. Disregarding two new wounds inflicted during the entry, he finally broke through all obstacles!

Chu Xiang panicked further and hastily retreated. Unfortunately for him, Ji Changxiao, who had been waiting precisely for this opening, gave him no chance to create distance. Clinging to him like a shadow, he relentlessly pressed the attack, unleashing the power of his close-combat mastery upon the flustered Chu Xiang.

"Chu Xiang has lost..." Ji Changkong said, his expression heavy. He could see Chu Xiang was terrified, but Ji Changxiao had also sustained grievous injuries—the sheer amount of blood loss alone was more than a normal person could endure.

Chu Xiang had indeed lost. Once Ji Changxiao closed the distance, he was immediately at a disadvantage. After scrambling desperately to defend himself for a short while, new wounds appeared on his body. He was always ruthless and savage toward others, but toward himself, Chu Xiang was excessively merciful... As wounds manifested and blood trickled out, Chu Xiang’s internal power visibly plummeted, and fear began to surface across his entire demeanor. With fear present, the outcome of the battle was sealed. Soon, without needing a final strike from Ji Changxiao, Chu Xiang voluntarily surrendered his weapon.

"Changxiao!" Ji Yuxing and Ji Yusheng rushed to drag him out of the Earth Split Chasm as soon as He Haoran announced the result.

"Besides Ji Changkong, the Ji family has another ruthless player! We underestimated this person in the earlier rounds..."

"Only those with such great willpower can endure until the end. Those who can face their injuries without fear, those who can disregard their own survival, are the most terrifying people in this world! How can this fellow treat his own injuries with such indifference? How... how exactly did he cultivate?"

"Terrifying, truly a terrifying person! Although he is only at the peak of the Three Talents Heaven Realm, if he can maintain this level of frenzied battle intent, he will undoubtedly become a formidable figure in the future!"

The surrounding spectators looked on with expressions of utter astonishment and confusion.

It is easy to be cruel to others, but difficult to be cruel to oneself. A person capable of such self-inflicted harshness is either a madman or an extraordinary talent! Ji Changxiao was clearly the latter!

"Big Brother, are you alright?" After Ji Yuxing and Ji Yusheng dragged Ji Changxiao over, Ji Changkong rushed to meet them, urgently grasping his brother’s hand and channeling his own Primordial Energy toward him.

"You still have a match to fight. Don't worry about me; I'll be fine!" Feeling the energy flowing from Ji Changkong, Ji Changxiao flung his arm away. "The 'Limit Body Tempering Great Law' is about seeking breakthroughs in extremity—it applies not just to cultivation but also to combat. Don't worry; having cultivated such a miraculous law, if I lost this fight, I would truly be the most useless mediocrity under heaven."

"Changkong, don't worry, it's just excessive blood loss; he'll be fine after resting," Mo Yunyi patted Ji Changkong’s shoulder, offering a gentle consolation, advising him not to waste his Primordial Energy on Ji Changxiao but to prepare for his own upcoming battles.

"Aunt Lanyun," I said, "Be careful, but losing is not the end of the world; we are still here behind you!" Ji Changkong stopped channeling energy into Ji Changxiao, glanced with a smile at the slightly nervous Ji Lanyun. "No matter what, our Ji family has proven itself at the Blood Rain Mountain Sect Gathering. Even if we don't secure those three precious cultivation spots today, I believe the He family and the Star Stone Sect will work together to arrange a place for us. Besides, weren't we driven out of Black Rock Cliff? That location is inherently a treasure trove suited for cultivation! So, don't worry too much..."

He needed to ensure Ji Lanyun had no psychological burden.

"Mmm, I understand." Hearing Ji Changkong’s words, the frantic pounding in Ji Lanyun’s heart gradually subsided.

"Ji Lanyun versus Miao Yancheng!" He Haoran’s voice rose again.

This match also began quickly and ended just as rapidly. Miao Bingcheng was a Four Manifestations Heaven Scholar who had communicated with the Sacred Beast White Tiger, reaching the peak of the Four Manifestations Heaven Realm—only one final step separated him from true ascension. In terms of experience, realm, and depth of Primordial Energy, this man clearly held a slight advantage over Ji Lanyun. During the exchange, the gap in their strengths was evident.

From the beginning, Miao Bingcheng relentlessly pressed Ji Lanyun, constantly utilizing his advantages to erode her confidence. However, perhaps because Ji Changkong's words had taken effect, Ji Lanyun did not panic during the battle; instead, she dealt with Miao Bingcheng's attacks with sincere focus.

Seeking no merit, but ensuring no error—with her mindset properly aligned—Ji Lanyun resembled a small boat valiantly enduring a storm. No matter how Miao Bingcheng attacked, Ji Lanyun maintained a serious composure, firmly defending her small territory without revealing any major vulnerability.

Although Ji Lanyun ultimately lost this fight, she earned the respect of everyone present.

Sweating profusely, Ji Lanyun lost because she had exhausted her Primordial Energy. Her face was pale and devoid of strength as she finally collapsed onto the ground. Before she fell, Miao Bingcheng, superior to her in all aspects, had failed to breach her defense and never truly threatened her.

When she collapsed, Miao Bingcheng’s face was also pale, having nearly exhausted his power. As he returned from the Earth Split Chasm to the Blood Moon Sect area, Miao Bingcheng was also being supported. "I... I did my best..." Ji Lanyun managed to say weakly upon reaching the Ji family side before her body suddenly went limp.

"I know. Leave the rest to me," Ji Changkong said, supporting Ji Lanyun with a gentle smile.

"Aunt Lanyun, though you lost this battle, you won honor! Everyone could see you only fell short due to insufficient Primordial Energy. Although that man’s realm was higher, he lacks your tenacity and resolve. After this fight, you will break through, whereas he might develop an inner demon. Therefore, we are the true victors."

"No..." Ji Lanyun shook her head, appearing bewildered. "I don't quite understand..."

"Rest well now, don't dwell on it too much. We will win." Standing up, after He Haoran called out his name, Ji Changkong walked towards the Earth Split Chasm with a slight smile on his lips.

"Yuwen Mengjian! How can it be Yuwen Mengjian! Didn't this guy suffer a Qi deviation?"

"Didn't they say Yuwen Mengjian had broken through? Why is he still only a Five Elements Heaven Scholar? What in the world is going on?" This is a mad wolf released! I didn't expect the Blood Moon Sect to deploy such a vicious wolf to bite us!"

As soon as Yuwen Mengjian’s name was mentioned, the surrounding crowd erupted in discussion. Even He Haoran, who was announcing the pairings, looked utterly surprised and stared at the Blood Moon Sect Master. "Is Yuwen Mengjian truly still in the Five Elements Heaven Realm? Didn't we hear he broke through?"

"A genuine Five Elements Heaven Scholar!" The Blood Moon Sect Master, Tong Qian, stood up and smiled faintly, explaining, "However, Yuwen Mengjian did take a trip into the Six Harmonies Heaven Realm, but after suffering the Qi deviation, he retreated back to the Five Elements Heaven Realm. If you don't believe me, you can verify it?"

"Brother He, if someone suffers Qi deviation and retreats to the Five Elements Heaven Realm, does he still count as a Five Elements Heaven Scholar?" Liu Yunhaifeng smiled, his grin slightly unsettling.

"I suppose so..." He Haoran’s face darkened.

"Does the rule of Blood Rain Mountain prohibit participants who have suffered Qi deviation? Are there any rules preventing a scholar who has regressed to the Five Elements Heaven Realm from participating?" Liu Yunhaifeng pressed further.

"..." "No," He Haoran huffed.

"That settles it then. Yuwen Mengjian versus Ji Changkong! Fight!" Liu Yunhaifeng roared loudly. Brother Tong Qian, this move with Yuwen Mengjian is truly brilliant, he sneered inwardly.

"This... this..." He Haoran stammered, unable to articulate a response.

"Come on, come on, you big clumsy bear! Stop wasting my time. Let me see what marvels you possess after taking that detour through the Six Harmonies Heaven Realm!" Ji Changkong shouted impatiently from inside the Earth Split Chasm, ensuring everyone knew how eager he was to start.