The five-colored halo drifted toward the leader of the Ram Cult. Before the halo could descend, the Ram Cult leader’s spirit suddenly faltered; his soul seemed ensnared within the five-colored light, circling endlessly with the five elemental rays.

With his spirit thus disturbed, the attacking force of the Ram Cult leader was drastically weakened, exposing a critical flaw. Gui Hai seized the opening, charging forward without hesitation to unleash a relentless barrage upon him.

At that precise moment, the five-colored halo, which had been descending upon him, suddenly contracted. The powers of Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth surged within the sphere, coalescing into a strange, potent force that even the Ram Cult leader dared not underestimate.

The Five Elements, complementing and fusing with one another, often unleashed astonishing might.

Correspondingly, the Ram Cult leader’s soul seemed to shrink as well, suffering under the inexplicable influence of the five-hued halo. His expression shifted subtly. With a sudden, strange roar, the Ram Cult leader’s entire body erupted in blazing starlight. Pinpricks of stellar light shot forth, instantly forming an arcane and unfathomable Bagua Star Chart. This chart manifested behind him from coalesced starlight, seemingly establishing a wondrous resonance with the celestial bodies above.

The distant stars in the void were like glittering grains of sand. Just then, starlight connected the stars across an entire celestial domain, weaving lines of light like silver thread. In a mere instant, the stars of that domain were linked into the immense pattern of a scorpion.

The Heavenly Scorpion gave a mighty lash of its tail, and a surging power burst forth from the Ram Cult leader, wildly erupting in all directions—a terrifyingly immense force.

The slowly descending and contracting five-hued halo could not withstand the impact of this surging power. The multicolored points of light scattered like hundreds or thousands of fireflies, shimmering with dazzling, enchanting colors in the void, adding a dreamlike, beautiful spectacle to the night sky above Xuanyuan Valley.

Before the dazzling array of colors could fade, dozens of fierce ghosts wailed as they rushed in, their grim, terrifying, grayish forms instantly crashing into the brightly colored area, adding a darker hue to the ethereal night scene.

A massive, bat-like shadow flashed among the fierce ghosts. When it reappeared, the shadow was already behind the Ram Cult leader. A mourning staff, as thick as an arm, lightly tapped the Bagua Star Chart located just above the Ram Cult leader's neck.

Bang!

The Bagua Star Chart, formed purely from condensed starlight, shattered like porcelain, scattering flecks of starlight everywhere.

The Ram Cult leader cried out in pain and violently turned his head, two streams of hot blood puffing from his nostrils. Gui Hai’s surprise attack had clearly wounded him.

Both being masters of the Eighth Level of the Bagua Heaven Realm, Gui Hai naturally held a significant advantage with the external aid of Ji Changkong. Under the influence of Ji Changkong’s five-colored halo, the Ram Cult leader’s spirit was severely affected, allowing him to deploy only sixty to seventy percent of his full strength. Naturally, he was no match for Gui Hai.

After being wounded, the Ram Cult leader did not lose his composure to fight Gui Hai head-on. Instead, he suddenly evaded Gui Hai and silently slipped into the crowd of Manichaeists. Simultaneously, the Heavenly Scorpion formed from the stars high above him dimmed, seeming to vanish deep within the star field.

Swish!

Only then did Ji Changkong land beside Gui Hai. He glanced at the Ram Cult leader, who was concealed among the Manichaeists, and quietly said to Gui Hai, “He’s wounded and doesn’t dare face us at full strength. Ignore him; let’s join forces and kill the Dark King.”

“Good!” Gui Hai agreed readily.

“We truly did not anticipate that the Ji family was so full of hidden talents and such formidable strength. We misjudged the Ji family today, so we won't waste any more time…” The Dark King of the Manichaeists’ cold, merciless voice echoed faintly over Xuanyuan Valley. “The destruction of Blood Rain Mountain is imminent. Muluo, flee as far as you can from the Ji family. Otherwise, the next time we visit Xuanyuan Valley, no one will be left alive.”

Endless darkness suddenly descended upon Xuanyuan Valley. In an instant, the night sky seemed smeared with ink, obscuring the light of the moon and stars completely. The combat awareness of those inside the valley was greatly affected; it became a place where one truly could not see one’s hand before one’s face.

Absolute Darkness! The Dark King of the Manichaeists, having thoroughly cultivated this profound mystery, could obscure even the light of the blazing sun when unleashed. At night, the darkness became even heavier.

Shush, shush, shush!

Under the absolute darkness, sounds of movement could be heard within the valley. Clearly, the Manichaeists were taking advantage of the blackout to withdraw from Xuanyuan Valley.

“Don’t pursue!” Ji Changkong was the one who spoke.

The Ji family members, who had been preparing to chase them out of the valley, simultaneously halted. When the star-filled light returned to the ink-black night sky, they discovered that the Manichaeists had already vanished without a trace from Xuanyuan Valley.

On the ground, only a few corpses of dead Manichaeists remained; apart from that, nothing else was left. The Ram Cult leader and that elder woman from Lanyuan Garden had also disappeared, using the chaos to slip away.

Mo Yunyi, Ji Yuxing, Ji Yuxing, along with Gui Die and Gui Hai, the two decision-makers of the Ghost Sect, stood with Ji Changkong and Muluo, their expressions solemn.

“The rain of blood has stopped! Suddenly, there’s a huge change, and not a single person can be seen on the mountain…” Ji Changkong recounted what he had witnessed on Blood Rain Mountain, his expression grave. He spoke in a deep voice, “The change of fate on Blood Rain Mountain is likely not that simple. The Ten Thousand Poisons Sect of Southern Yi, Sunset Isle of the East Sea, Lanyuan Garden, the Blood Pool Branch, Flowing Cloud Sand—these Celestial Master forces are not to be trifled with. The recent appearance of the Dark King indicates that the Manichaeist Cult is also involved. This upheaval on Blood Rain Mountain might be even more ferocious than the massive invasion by the Southern Yi Celestial Masters of yesteryear!”

Mo Yunyi, Ji Yuxing, Gui Die, and the others turned pale upon hearing Ji Changkong’s words. They had guessed that something had changed on Blood Rain Mountain, but they had not anticipated it would be this severe.

“How dare they?” Ji Yuxing ground his teeth in hatred. The Ji family had finally managed to stabilize themselves on Blood Rain Mountain, seeing the hope of reviving their former glory. Such a major upheaval now might destroy all the efforts the Ji family had made previously!

“Yes, how dare they?” Ji Haoguang arrived, his face filled with disbelief. “Is the record of the Nine Division Celestial Master King Chixiao a century ago not profound enough? Are those people from the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect of Southern Yi insane? A hundred years ago, the Southern Yi Celestial Masters on Blood Rain Mountain were slaughtered until the ground flowed with blood by Li Hentian and the others. Are these people unaware of the Heavenly Mountain’s attitude towards external enemies?”

Everyone’s expression grew solemn, and there was a degree of incomprehension in their eyes. The Qiankun Sect of the Heavenly Mountain was located just north of Blood Rain Mountain, not far away. When the Southern Yi Celestial Masters launched their massive invasion of Blood Rain Mountain back then, the Qiankun Sect immediately took action. The Qiankun Sect Master, a cultivator of the Ninth Level of the Bagua Heaven Realm, traveled alone to Southern Yi and slew Chimèi on Heavenly Wolf Mountain, the sacred ground of the Southern Yi Celestial Masters.

Li Hentian, as the Grand Elder of the Qiankun Sect, led the Heavenly Mountain experts into Blood Rain Mountain and, together with the Celestial Masters already there, slaughtered the Southern Yi Celestial Masters until the blood flowed like rivers. The reason Blood Rain Mountain was called such was because of that battle where the top experts of the heavens gathered, and scarlet blood rained down like water.

Ninth Level Bagua Celestial Masters were formidable existences feared by all under heaven. The ancient prestige of the Qiankun Sect stood like a towering mountain, inspiring awe. How could the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect or Sunset Isle dare oppose the Heavenly Mountain? “There are few Ninth Level Bagua Heaven Realm experts in the world. Without a Ninth Level Bagua Celestial Master backing them, the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect and Sunset Isle should not dare move against Blood Rain Mountain. Judging by the current situation, I fear… I fear there must be a Ninth Level Bagua Heaven Realm expert backing them from the shadows!” Mo Yunyi murmured thoughtfully after a long silence, suddenly letting out a soft sigh.

“Ninth Level Bagua Celestial Master!” Ji Yuxing’s face changed drastically.

“The Manichaeist Cult, Holy Mother Youlan!” Muluo’s expression turned extremely grim. “Youlan is also a Ninth Level Bagua Heaven Realm master. She has long wanted to stir up trouble in the Central Lands. If the person behind these sects is her, then these sects have no need to fear the terrifying existence of Gu Yu!”

The Manichaeist Cult of the Western Regions, Holy Mother Youlan—she was a Ninth Level Bagua Celestial Master comparable to Gu Yu. If Youlan backed these sects, then indeed, they would not fear the Qiankun Sect. Otherwise, even if they could rampage across Blood Rain Mountain temporarily, once Gu Yu made a move, they would still suffer a crushing defeat.

“If it truly is Holy Mother Youlan, then even if Gu Yu steps forward, it might not be enough to drive this group out of Blood Rain Mountain…” Mo Yunyi frowned deeply. He glanced at Gui Die and Gui Hai, forcing a wry smile.

“You traveled thousands of miles from the Gray Mountain Range only to encounter such a disaster right away. I truly don't know what to say.”

“It’s alright. My Ghost Sect has been contending with the Ghost Demon King in the Gray Mountain Range for years; it was much harder than being outside. Stepping out of the Gray Mountain Range, we at least have a chance at survival. But if we had remained in the Gray Mountain Range… my Ghost Sect would truly have been doomed,” Gui Die lamented bleakly. “Brother Changkong, I think the three of us should leave this place early. Now that Blood Rain Mountain is overrun by outsiders like the Ten Thousand Poisons Sect, Sunset Isle of the East Sea, and the Manichaeist Cult, this matter is far from simple. After we return to the Duan family, we can offer some assistance and deliver this news to the Celestial Master forces in Shuiyun Garden.” Duan Xiaoshan quietly poked her head out, requesting to go home. “At a time like this, when outsiders are rampant on Blood Rain Mountain, if you leave now, you risk great peril if you encounter any of them! Absolutely not. Stay with us temporarily. Once I confirm you are safe, I will let the three of you go,” Ji Changkong said with a serious expression.

“Oh.” Duan Xiaoshan did not insist, nodding obediently.

“Should we remain in Xuanyuan Valley, or temporarily seek refuge elsewhere?” Gui Hai pondered, his gaze falling on Ji Changkong.

“We’ve only just settled down. If we leave Xuanyuan Valley now, where else can we go?” Ji Changkong sighed helplessly. “With so many of us, rushing towards the Heavenly Mountain right now is not appropriate…”

“Changkong, you all stay in Xuanyuan Valley. I will make a trip to the Heavenly Mountain. As long as the news reaches the Heavenly Mountain, they will certainly send people over!” Mo Yunyi suddenly said after a moment of thought.

“There’s no need to go to the Heavenly Mountain. I think… Gu Yu probably already knows what has happened here,” Muluo said, his eyes flashing brilliantly. “The sensory perception of a Ninth Level Bagua Celestial Master is far beyond your imagination. The Heavenly Mountain and Blood Rain Mountain are not too far apart. With Gu Yu’s level, he should be able to sense the changes on Blood Rain Mountain!”

“You mean? The Celestial Masters of the Heavenly Mountain will arrive quickly?” Ji Changkong paused, suddenly asking.

“I don't know. If the Manichaeist Holy Mother Youlan is leading her guardians to visit Gu Yu at the Heavenly Mountain, then Gu Yu will be preoccupied,” Muluo sighed.

At these words, everyone’s expression moved.

Heavenly Mountain.

Shrouded in mist, the peaks stood majestic and towering, exuding an overwhelmingly rich spiritual energy of heaven and earth. It was a place abundant in all sorts of rare heavenly materials and exotic beasts, favored by Celestial Masters for cultivation.

There were quite a few sects on the Heavenly Mountain, but the most renowned was the Qiankun Sect perched atop the highest peak. There were countless Celestial Master sects in the Central Lands, but for centuries, the pinnacle of the pyramid belonged to the two supreme sects: Guiyuan and Qiankun.

Gu Yu of the Qiankun Sect was one of the few Ninth Level Bagua Celestial Masters in the world, able to roam the boundless void with profound magical power. For many years, he had been cultivating diligently at the summit of the Heavenly Mountain, rarely leaving.

The Qiankun Sect, always revered by Celestial Masters throughout the world, was experiencing a rare moment of disarray today. High atop the Heavenly Mountain, a group of Celestial Masters dressed in Western attire had suddenly descended. On the bone-chillingly cold summit, four Seven-Star Celestial Masters, bare-chested and bearing strange symbols tattooed on their skin, were carrying a massive sedan chair.

The sedan chair appeared to be constructed from some unknown material, seamlessly molded into one piece, showing no visible seams or signs of being joined with nails. On the curtain hanging at the front of the chair was embroidered a golden, dazzling sun pattern. This sun pattern did not look like embroidery; instead, a dazzling golden light radiated from it.

The four solemn-faced Western Celestial Masters stood before the sedan chair, all looking benevolent and smiling. “The Holy Mother of the Manichaeist Cult has arrived in person, hoping to exchange skills with the Sect Master of the Qiankun Sect, Gu Yu, to jointly pursue the ultimate path of the Ten Directions!” The Wisdom Dharma King, wearing a broad smile, saluted those before him using Central Lands etiquette.

The towering structures of the Qiankun Sect looked as if they were carved from solid ice. At a glance, the summit of the Heavenly Mountain resembled a magnificent, beautifully sculpted ice palace garden. Stones, buildings, flowers, exotic beasts were scattered throughout the ice garden, preventing the world of ice from appearing desolate and lifeless.

In front of a training ground lined with sharp ice cones, Xue Biandao, the chief disciple of Gu Yu, stood with solemnity, adhering strictly to all courtesies to receive this group of outsiders from the Manichaeist Cult—not daring to show the slightest disrespect.

“Please wait a moment; our sect’s elders will go invite the Sect Master out of seclusion.” Xue Biandao’s expression remained unchanged. He acted as if he were unaware that the group opposite him represented the foremost Celestial Master religion of the Western Regions, maintaining his composure and dignity.

The Wisdom Dharma King smiled and nodded, waiting there patiently.

Deep within the belly of the Heavenly Mountain, in the center of an immense cavern, stood a thick block of ice rock, ten zhang high. In the heart of this ice rock sat an old man completely enveloped in snow-white robes, cross-legged. His expression was detached, like a living fossil trapped for thousands of years, devoid of any vitality.

A man and a woman stood silently beside the ice rock. At first glance, they appeared to be only in their early thirties, but a closer look at their eyes would reveal depths that suggested a worldliness and cunning usually found only in the elderly.

Liu Qing and Wang Xuelan, the two grand elders of the Qiankun Sect on the Heavenly Mountain.

Liu Qing and Wang Xuelan stood silently beside the ice rock, their gazes fixed intently on the ice rock, saying nothing, simply watching.

The ice rock suddenly flashed briefly. Gu Yu, inside the rock, stepped directly out without any apparent physical impediment from the ice—as if the ice rock were an illusory object that didn't exist. The thick layer of ice was like air to him.

“Sect Master, the Manichaeist Cult leader, Youlan, has come to the Heavenly Mountain in person,” Liu Qing bowed slightly, his voice calm as water.

Gu Yu’s eyes were vacant. He nodded lightly and commanded, “I will fight Youlan. Do not make any rash moves until this battle is concluded.”

“Yes,” Liu Qing and Wang Xuelan replied in unison.

“Liu Qing, I know you are still in contact with Hentian. Pass a message to him, telling him there has been a change on Blood Rain Mountain,” Gu Yu said, his vacant gaze falling upon Liu Qing.

Liu Qing’s brow twitched slightly, and he lowered his head, saying again, “Understood.”

“While I am fighting Youlan, all of you remain here on the Heavenly Mountain for the time being. Do not engage the Manichaeist Dharma Kings. The matter of Blood Rain Mountain will be handled by others; do not worry,” Gu Yu instructed. His figure gradually blurred, and he slowly vanished before the eyes of Liu Qing and Wang Xuelan.

Above the summit of the Heavenly Mountain, amidst clouds tens of thousands of feet high, a light cry suddenly rang out from Gu Yu.

A graceful figure abruptly shot out of the massive sedan chair atop the Heavenly Mountain peak and soared towards the clouds tens of thousands of feet high, disappearing in an instant.

The four Dharma Kings of the Manichaeist Cult and the numerous Celestial Masters smiled faintly when they saw Holy Mother Youlan take flight. They all sat down in the icy snow, closing their eyes motionless.

Liu Qing, Wang Xuelan, and the others from the Qiankun Sect watched the four Manichaeist Dharma Kings gathered on the summit with vigilance, not daring to let down their guard.

Southeast of Dachu Garden, deep within the desolate wilderness, lay the Xiao family, one of the Seven Great Families.

Among the Seven Great Families, only the Xiao and Yi families were not situated within the boundaries of the three great gardens. The Xiao family had kept a low profile in recent years, rarely interacting with outsiders, and had stopped participating in many major world events.

Xiao Shu, who had met Ji Changkong several times previously, was currently listening to the teachings of his elders in the Xiao family ancestral home.

“The Ji family and our Xiao family have a deep connection. Before Xuanyuan appeared, and since Ji Haotian offended the Guiyuan Sect, we kept our distance from the Ji family to avoid suspicion. Now that you are certain Ji Changkong is the new Xuanyuan of the Ji family, we no longer need to be so cautious,” Xiao Xing said solemnly.

“I met Ji Changkong at the Spirit Treasure Assembly. His perception is exceptionally sharp. After the assembly, I intentionally leaked the news that he would travel to the Heavenly Martial Garden, wanting to see if he truly had the ability to survive that trial. To my surprise, he vanished as if into thin air. When he reappeared, he was already at the Du family,” Xiao Shu reported. “This generation of Xuanyuan is no less capable than previous ones. Our Xiao family should prepare early.”

“Elder Li sent word, hoping our Xiao family would discern the situation under heaven and make a judgment soon,” Xiao Xing frowned, instructing Xiao Shu, “When you next meet Ji Changkong, explain the relationship between the Xiao family and the Ji family, and also frankly confess everything you’ve done secretly. Do not hide anything, lest it backfire.”

“I understand,” Xiao Shu nodded. “Go to Xuanyuan Valley.” Xiao Xing waved his hand in dismissal.

Shuiyun Garden, Tianshui City—the Chen family.

Chen Yicong was handling affairs at the Spirit Treasure Pavilion when a figure silently materialized before her, gazing at her with a cold expression.

Chen Yihui’s heart sank, and she looked up sharply. Upon clearly seeing the person who had arrived, Chen Yihui patted her chest and laughed, “Elder Li, you startle me every time you come.”

“The Ten Thousand Poisons Sect of Southern Yi, Sunset Isle of the East Sea, the Manichaeist Cult, Lanyuan Garden—these sects have arrived at Blood Rain Mountain, and Holy Mother Youlan has personally visited the Qiankun Sect. Blood Rain Mountain has changed. You know what you need to do,” Li Hentian said, his brow deeply furrowed, his tone flat.

Chen Yihui’s hand trembled, dropping her brush and ink. She shot to her feet, and Chen Yicong shouted, “What… what did you say?”

“This upheaval on Blood Rain Mountain is even fiercer than the invasion by the Southern Yi Celestial Masters of the past. Holy Mother Youlan has reached the Heavenly Mountain. Blood Rain Mountain has likely changed hands,” Li Hentian stated before turning and walking straight out. “I will go to Blood Rain Mountain first. Since the Heavenly Mountain cannot spare any personnel this time, you all deliberate and hurry to Blood Rain Mountain.”

“I will immediately notify all the Celestial Master sects I can reach! An external enemy invasion—they simply do not respect our Shuiyun Garden!” Chen Yicong’s face turned ashen with shock. After Li Hentian left, Chen Yihui, without a second thought, found Chen Yirong and quickly explained the situation. Then she rushed out, saying, “I am immediately going to the Imperial Palace. The change on Blood Rain Mountain targets the Celestial Master world of our entire Shuiyun Garden. The Heavenly Mountain is being blockaded by the Manichaeist Cult, so the Huangfu family must step forward to preside over the overall situation and command the major forces of Shuiyun Garden to rush to Blood Rain Mountain to offer emergency aid.” After finishing her speech, Chen Yirong quickly departed.

Blood Rain Mountain, Xuanyuan Valley.

The Ji family did not leave the valley as the Dark King had commanded. Instead, they strengthened their defenses, remaining within the valley to await the next wave of attacks from the Dark King and his forces.

The Ji family possessed three experts at the Eighth Level of the Bagua Heaven Realm, and there were around ten Seven-Star Celestial Masters like Old Ghost Qi and Old Ghost Liu, including the three Ji brothers. This strength was by no means inferior to the Six Great Celestial Master Sects and the Seven Great Families, which is why they dared to remain in Xuanyuan Valley.

One day, a group of strangers gathered outside Xuanyuan Valley.

The Ji family members, who were cautiously maintaining their defenses, suddenly faced a grave threat. Several experts emerged from the valley, standing guard outside the entrance with tense expressions.

“Ji Changkong!” A voice suddenly rang out from within the crowd. He Lixuan walked out from the throng. Months had passed, and He Lixuan looked haggard, her face etched with worry, her spirit in a far worse state than before.

Gui Mei was the first to arrive, blocking these people with a cold expression, demanding sternly:

“What do you people want?”

"Halt, Changkong! Let Ji Changkong out!" He Lixuan called out softly.

"He Lixuan, is that you? What are you doing back in Xuanyuan Valley?" Ji Changkong appeared, his expression astonished. He waved a hand at Gui Die, signaling her not to worry too much. "How did you get here?" Ji Changkong was genuinely puzzled; he had assumed all the He family members had met with misfortune.

"Brother Changkong, you must leave Blood Rain Mountain quickly, or things will change for the worse," Huang Kun emerged from the crowd, forcing a wry smile. "Miss He came to our Huang family to discuss an alliance, which is how she escaped disaster. Blood Rain Mountain... something huge has happened on Blood Rain Mountain..." Huang Kun swiftly explained what Ji Changkong already knew, adding, "A few other sects associated with our Huang family were farther away and happened to learn of the situation. Before those sects could arrive, we immediately withdrew from our ancestral grounds. We were already preparing to evacuate Blood Rain Mountain, and as we passed your Ji family territory, we decided to stop by and check on you."

A few sects connected to the Huang family, being in more remote locations, received timely warnings. They banded together and left early. The Ji family’s territory was also rather secluded, so these travelers made a stop to exchange greetings.

"You can leave if you wish. We are not leaving Blood Rain Mountain. The Dark King of the Mani Sect, the Cult Master of the Ram Sect, and a Gossip Celestial Master from Lan Rou Garden, along with high-level experts from the Great Pull Mani Sect, came to Xuanyuan Valley before. However, the Ji family drove them out. At this moment, hiding anywhere is unsafe; the road is even more dangerous. It's better to pool our strength and hold one location," Ji Changkong shook his head, having no intention of leaving with them.

Hearing this, Huang Kun and He Lixuan’s expressions shifted, and the experts from those few sects simultaneously gasped.

"Wh-what?" He Lixuan seemed momentarily stunned, staring blankly at Ji Changkong. "Three... three Gossip Celestial Masters came to your Ji family, and you actually, actually drove them out of Xuanyuan Valley? Ji Changkong, you... you aren't joking, are you?" He Lixuan could hardly believe the truth of what she had heard.

"I am aware of what you are discussing. The Ten Thousand Poisons Gate of the Southern Yi, Sunset Isle of the East Sea, the Mani Sect of the Western Regions... the combined forces of these factions are indeed terrifying. I know you hope for aid from Mount Tian, but rushing there now is not a good idea. Perhaps experts from these sects are lying in wait on the roads, preventing you from reaching Tian Shan." Ji Changkong sighed deeply.

"The Dark King of the Mani Sect mobilized and dares to act so openly and recklessly on Blood Rain Mountain, surely they have a foundation. Perhaps the Holy Mother Youlan has also arrived at Shuiyun Garden. If she is here, even Gu Zhan would have reservations. The situation on Blood Rain Mountain cannot be concealed; the Celestial Masters from Shuiyun Garden must already be on their way. As long as we hold out for a while within our territory, these outsiders won't cause trouble for long..." Ji Changkong reasoned.

Five or six older elders, who had been listening quietly to Ji Changkong speak, now looked moved, their eyes filled with contemplation as they surveyed Xuanyuan Valley.

He Lixuan was dumbfounded. After a long pause, she finally reacted, crying out, "Heavens! How is this possible? Even my He family, even the Star Stone Sect, doesn't have the power to deal with three Gossip Celestial Masters! Ji Changkong, how did you manage it?"

"As it happens, Xuanyuan Valley currently has three Gossip Celestial Masters," Ji Changkong stated frankly, not concealing the Ji family's strength at this moment.

The moment these words were spoken, the entire group was stunned, their expressions filled with terror.

"I think... we should seriously consider his proposal!" Huang Xuejiang, the Lord of the Huang family, looked solemn, clearly tempted by Ji Changkong's suggestion.

"Three Gossip Celestial Masters, indeed, their strength is extraordinary. But, but the last time they could send three Gossip Celestial Masters, the next time they come, they might have absolute certainty. Staying in Xuanyuan Valley is also a dead end," sighed the leader of a sect called Sanyue Sect, shaking his head, apparently disagreeing with remaining in Xuanyuan Valley.

"Discuss amongst yourselves. In any case, our Ji family will not leave Xuanyuan Valley. If you are willing, you can temporarily reside here until the crisis on Blood Rain Mountain passes, then leave and return to your families," Ji Changkong knew this matter was too grave; their decision concerned the very survival of their sects, so he offered no further advice.

Huang Xuejiang and his group launched into a heated discussion about whether to stay or leave. Huang Kun couldn't interject, merely gazing in astonishment toward the depths of Xuanyuan Valley.

This recently excavated treasure trove for cultivation had suddenly become mysterious due to the Ji family's presence.

"Why not go to Black Rock Cliff to rescue them? Members of the He family, the Star Stone Sect, and some other sects have been poisoned with 'Heavenly God's Drunkenness' and are imprisoned in Black Rock Cliff. Since you know this and possess such power, why don't you go rescue them?" He Lixuan pressed Ji Changkong.

Ji Changkong shook his head with a wry smile. "I can barely protect myself; saving others is out of the question." He Lixuan stared deeply at Ji Changkong for a long time, then turned to Huang Xuejiang and said, "You all should leave. I am staying in Xuanyuan Valley. I am a member of the Blood Rain Alliance; I cannot just think of escaping at a time like this!"

"This... this isn't because we lack loyalty, but rather, the disparity in strength is just too great!" the leader of the Sanyue Sect said helplessly.

"There’s no need to say more. I understand your difficulties, but even if I must die, I want to die on Blood Rain Mountain; I don't want to die outside," He Liying declared with resolute fervor. Although her cultivation realm might not be exceptionally high, her bearing was undeniably heroic, possessing a tragic aura of facing death without flinching.

However, the members of these sects had been thoroughly terrified by the state of Blood Rain Mountain. No matter what He Liying said, they would not make a decision easily.

Huang Xuejiang and the leaders of these factions resumed their fervent debate.

"There are experts here!" Gui Rong's expression suddenly changed, and he hissed to Ji Changkong, "The opponent's strength is exceptionally formidable, perhaps possessing the cultivation level of the peak of the Gossip Heaven Realm! Even more terrifying than the three Gossip Celestial Masters who came last time!" Gui Rong's voice was not loud, but he didn't deliberately suppress it either. The group currently discussing things instantly quieted down, everyone's face growing exceptionally grim.

Although Ji Changkong had reached the Six Harmony Heaven Realm and could vaguely sense the life signatures within a ten-mile radius, he still lacked the sensitivity to detect such supreme experts whose cultivation reached the Gossip Heaven Realm. Only figures of the same caliber could truly perceive their presence.

Gui Hai and Mu Luo quietly flew over from the depths of Xuanyuan Valley, landing beside Ji Changkong, standing with Gui Die.

The leaders from Blood Rain Mountain, like Huang Xuejiang, saw Gui Hai and Mu Luo arrive in an instant. These individuals, who possessed the Seven Star Heaven Realm cultivation, felt a surge of joy. Unable to gauge the realm of Gui Hai and Mu Luo, they immediately realized these two, like Gui Die, were also Gossip Heaven Realm Celestial Masters.

With three Gossip Celestial Masters present, the few felt somewhat reassured.

Gradually, a slender figure emerged from the distance, walking toward Xuanyuan Valley. The members of the various forces gathered there faced him like they were confronting an enemy, proactively moving closer to the Ji family valley without needing orders from Huang Xuejiang.

His face alight with pleasant surprise, Ji Changkong rushed out, instantly arriving in front of the figure. "Why have you come? You learned about the situation on Blood Rain Mountain?" Ji Changkong looked at him, suddenly feeling a sense of security. Even with three Gossip Heaven Realm masters already in the valley, he felt uneasy, but this person’s arrival, though only one Gossip Celestial Master, instantly made him relax.

In his subconscious, it seemed only this person was the true anchor who could help him solve difficult problems.

"Mmm," Li Hentian nodded coldly, as if the collapse of heaven and earth held no relation to him—he never displayed nervousness.

"Just you alone?" Ji Changkong asked with a smile.

"Mmm," Li Hentian replied.

"Why didn't you come with others, rushing over so urgently?" Ji Changkong asked again.

Li Hentian looked deeply at Ji Changkong this time but offered no verbal reply.

Ji Changkong smiled. From Li Hentian’s gaze, he already knew the answer: the reason he rushed over alone so frantically was to ensure Ji Changkong’s safety!

"Li... Old Li..." "Old Li!" "Old Li!" Huang Xuejiang and the others suddenly became excited, their voices trembling. Seeing Li Hentian, they were more thrilled than if they had seen their own parents. This was somewhat unexpected for Ji Changkong; looking at the expressions of Huang Xuejiang and the others, an outsider might think they had an incredibly close relationship with Li Hentian.

Frowning slightly, Li Hentian shot an impatient glance at Huang Xuejiang and the others, saying coldly, "If you want to run, then go. Blood Rain Mountain won't miss you, nor will it be short of you!" The leaders of those major factions who had been clamoring to leave just moments before forced awkward laughs after being so sharply rebuked by Li Hentian, yet none showed anger. Instead, they wore smiles, saying ingratiatingly, "Now that Old Li is here, who would dare run? Wherever you go, we follow!"

The previously divided opinions suddenly unified; not a single person objected. In their minds, the notorious Fiend Li Hentian was far more effective than Gui Die, Gui Hai, and Mu Luo combined. Although they were all Gossip Heaven Realm experts, their trust in Li Hentian far surpassed what they felt for the trio from Gui Die.

Years ago, Blood Rain Mountain experienced a similar massive upheaval. At that time, Li Hentian initiated a bloody massacre, carving a bloody path for the sects on Blood Rain Mountain, causing the Celestial Masters of the Southern Yi to bleed rivers and not dare set foot on Blood Rain Mountain for a century. To the sects on Blood Rain Mountain, Li Hentian was a legend.

"If you're staying, stop the nonsense and work properly!" Li Hentian snorted, walking straight into Xuanyuan Valley with Ji Changkong. Seeing Gui Die and Gui Hai, Li Hentian frowned and looked towards Ji Changkong.

"They are from Ghost Valley in the Gray Dark Mountain Range..." Ji Changkong understood and smiled, introducing them.

Li Hentian nodded. "Ghost Sect, right? I know you. You have always been fighting the Three Ghost Demon Kings of the Nether Ghost Domain. Why did you leave the Gray Dark Mountain Range?" Gui Rong and Gui Hai were stunned. Few people in this world knew about the Ghost Sect and the Three Ghost Demon Kings; only a few sects within the Gray Dark Mountain Range had some inkling. Li Hentian, however, seemed extremely familiar with matters in the Gray Dark Mountain Range.

"H-how do you know about the Ghost Demon Kings?" Gui Die exclaimed in shock. "Besides the sects inside the Gray Dark Mountain Range, very few should know about this. Have you been to the Gray Dark Mountain Range?"

"I stayed there for a period; I trained some people in the Gray Dark Mountain Range..." Li Hentian nodded, apparently unwilling to discuss this aspect further. He glanced at Mu Luo and gave a slight nod. Mu Luo was similar to Li Hentian in some ways; the brief look he gave was equally expressionless, and he nodded gently.

"Li Hentian pays his respects to a few," Li Hentian greeted Ji Yuxing, Ji Yusheng, and Mo Yunyi. These three felt unexpectedly honored, not expecting the world-renowned Fiend to proactively pay his respects. They became flustered and hastily returned the salute, saying repeatedly, "We dare not, we dare not!"

"Hey, isn't this that strange old man who brews wine in Qingyan City?" Ji Changle called out from a distance, sounding quite surprised.

Ji Yuxing and Ji Yusheng blinked, suddenly realizing that Li Hentian had been connected to Ji Changkong long ago. They rarely visited Qingyan City and had never met Li Hentian, but they knew Ji Changkong often obtained "cheap" low-grade wine from a strange old man in Qingyan City.

"Thank you for taking care of Changkong all these years," Mo Yunyi, who knew some of the backstory, expressed her sincere gratitude.

"Not at all; I should thank you for teaching Changkong," Li Hentian returned the courtesy, then glanced at Huang Xuejiang and the others, frowning. "Arrange your subordinates. In a moment, the few of you will come to the Ji Family Council Hall; I have something to discuss with you."

"Yes, yes, yes!" They all nodded in unison, cheerfully arranging for their subordinates to quickly settle into Xuanyuan Valley, instructing them strictly not to disturb the Ji family members and to maintain good relations with them, never causing offense.

Inside the Ji Family Council Hall:

"The Holy Mother Youlan of the Mani Sect has gone to Mount Tian, accompanied by the Four Great Protectors..." Li Hentian said grimly, detailing the events unknown to them. After his explanation, Huang Xuejiang and the others looked extremely distressed.

"Youlan is at Mount Tian, so Tian Shan cannot spare attention for the trivial matters of Blood Rain Mountain. Don't expect Tian Shan to launch a swift, thunderous attack like they did against the Southern Yi Celestial Masters in the past. Also, it’s a good thing you, Huang Xuejiang and the others, didn't rush to Tian Shan; otherwise, you definitely wouldn't have made it," Li Hentian snorted, clearly dissatisfied with Huang Xuejiang and his group.

"Old Li? What... what should we do now?" Huang Xuejiang asked, his face withered with worry.

"The matter of Blood Rain Mountain has already spread. It won't be long before the experts from Shuiyun Garden gather at Mount Tian. Once they arrive from various locations, those people from the Ten Thousand Poisons Gate and Sunset Isle will never leave Blood Rain Mountain alive," Li Hentian scoffed.

"Ah, that's wonderful!" Huang Xuejiang and the others grew excited again.

"Grandpa Li, please, please save the He family! My He family, and the members of the Star Stone Sect, are all poisoned with Heavenly God's Drunkenness and imprisoned in Black Rock Cliff. Please save them!" He Liying suddenly knelt down with a thump, begging Li Hentian to act.

"Get up!" Li Hentian raised a hand, and He Lixuan involuntarily stood up.

"Changkong, you, me, Mu Luo, and these two others—we'll go check the situation at Black Rock Cliff first," Li Hentian directed Gui Die and Gui Hai.

"If none of us are here, will the Valley be safe?" Ji Changkong asked anxiously, slightly worried.

"It will be safe for now. Those people cannot spare the strength to deal with Xuanyuan Valley currently. The round trip won't take us long," Li Hentian replied.

"Very well, let’s depart immediately," Ji Changkong had no doubt about his words. He told Gui Die and Gui Hai, "Let's take a trip to Black Rock Cliff." The two nodded, and then they departed Xuanyuan Valley directly with Li Hentian, Ji Changkong, and Mu Luo.

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