The news that the masters from the Guiyuan Sect were about to arrive had already spread throughout the valley. Now, Xuanyuan Valley was far from its former liveliness. Not only were many people gone, but those who remained were all with furrowed brows and anxious expressions. For a time, a cloud of sorrow enveloped the entire valley. The smiles were gone from the faces of young and old alike from the Ji Family, the Ghost Sect, and the Xiao Family, all waiting in silence.

The miraculous power of the Star Sea enveloped the entire Xuanyuan Valley. During these days, Xinghai was constantly in a state of full defense, gathering stellar power and underground vital energy to provide the valley with formidable containment forces.

Those remaining in Xuanyuan Valley, besides the Ji, Ghost, and Xiao families, also included the He Family, the Star Stone Sect, and the sects from the original Blood Rain Mountain.

At this critical juncture, who could be trusted and relied upon was crystal clear.

One-third of the rogue cultivators who had gathered in Xuanyuan Valley from all corners of the realm had left. These rogue cultivators, compared to some of the sects and families who had come seeking refuge, showed considerable loyalty.

The reason was that they had grown accustomed to the atmosphere in Xuanyuan Valley. Here, there was no concealment regarding the various levels of attainment on the Path of the Celestial Master; discussions were frequent and open. These solitary cultivators found unparalleled convenience here that they could never obtain elsewhere.

And respect.

In Xuanyuan Valley, the Ji, Ghost, and Xiao families never intentionally demanded anything of these rogue cultivators, nor did they treat them as mere retainers; they were always treated with fairness and impartiality, without condescension.

Perhaps for this very reason, many of these rogue cultivators, who should have dispersed at the first sign of trouble, instead remained behind at this crucial time, much to the surprise of the three major families in the valley.

The He Family and the Star Stone Sect also did not disappoint this time. At the most critical moment, the two most powerful sects of Blood Rain Mountain chose not to abandon Xuanyuan Valley but to stand with it against the enemy.

The people of Xuanyuan Valley, initially worried about the power of the Guiyuan Sect, felt a slight warmth in their hearts because of this unwavering support.

In the newly opened central plaza of Xuanyuan Valley.

Xiao Poshan, Mo Yunyi, Mu Luo, and their group stood quietly, discussing details regarding the matter of the Guiyuan Sect.

“Cao Xuanqi’s chief disciple, Lan Xishu, has already departed from the Earth Fissure Valley. According to the schedule, they should arrive at Xuanyuan Valley today,” Mo Yunyi said, frowning at the group. “Should we offer courtesy first, or refuse them entry?”

“What is there to discuss? Their mobilization clearly indicates ill intent. The Star Sea Grand Array must absolutely not be deactivated; we are relying on it to hold them back,” Han Feng stated with a stern face, speaking first.

“Not only must the Star Sea Grand Array remain closed, but all containment forces must be activated. When the Guiyuan Sect people arrive, a few of us can wait inside the valley. Let’s first hear what they have to say. If they prepare for battle right away, then we have no choice but to comply, immediately retreat into the valley, and prepare for a fight,” Xiao Xing, always the calmer one, suggested.

He paused, then continued, “If the envoys from Guiyuan Sect are friendly in demeanor, we can open one corner of the Star Sea Grand Array and find a place within the valley to talk with them first. However, the location must be carefully chosen. The place we let them enter must also be a spot where the Star Sea Grand Array is potent. That way, if they harbor any other intentions, we can react sooner and avoid being caught off guard. Elder Mu Luo, I am not well-versed in the matters of the Star Sea Grand Array. Can you find a suitable location?”

Mu Luo’s expression stiffened, and he nodded slowly. “Rest assured, I will prepare a proper place for them. The moment they show any ill will, I will immediately exert the power of the Star Sea Grand Array.”

“That’s good,” Xiao Xing smiled. “I think this is the only arrangement we can make for now. Of course, we must inform the He Family and the others. Their decision to stay proves they have decided to oppose the Guiyuan Sect alongside us. They have the right to know.”

“Changxiao, send someone to deliver the message. Tell them… tell them the people from Guiyuan Sect are arriving soon, and they still have a final chance to leave. Our Ji Family will absolutely not stop them!” Mo Yunyi, in crucial moments, was the spokesperson for the Ji Family.

Ji Changxiao’s expression was cold. Without a word, he turned and left to notify the remaining personnel in the valley.

“The Guiyuan Sect has specially come to pay respects to the esteemed masters within Xuanyuan Valley.” A gentle and pleasant voice suddenly echoed throughout Xuanyuan Valley.

Xiao Poshan and the others, who were in the middle of serious discussion, were startled by the voice echoing in the valley, thinking inwardly how fast they had arrived.

“Let’s go out and see first. No need to rush into action,” Xiao Xing glanced at Mo Yunyi, then at Ji Yuxing. “No rush to fight; let’s see the attitude of the Guiyuan people first.”

“I’ll go!” Han Feng volunteered, slightly excited. “They say the people of Guiyuan Sect are formidable. Heh heh, I need a good look.”

“You can’t!” Xiao Xing hurriedly stopped him with a wry smile. “You have a bad temper. Our purpose out there now isn’t to immediately tear faces and start a brawl. We’re just assessing the situation. If you go, you might stir up trouble even if there wasn't any initially.”

Mo Yunyi and the others also offered wry words of dissuasion. They knew Han Feng was eccentric, solitary, and exceptionally strange in temper—the type who feared nothing. Before the situation stabilized, he could not be allowed to disrupt things.

Xiao Poshan, Gui Rong, and other similarly temperamental figures prone to ruining plans were forcibly detained by the group. After a brief consultation, it was decided that Gui Hai, Xiao Xing, Mo Yunyi, and Ji Yuxing would go out first to observe. These four were either mild-mannered or possessed unique statuses; none of them were the type to lose their temper and resort to fighting immediately.

Soon, with Mu Luo’s assent, Xiao Xing, Mo Yunyi, and the other two walked along the newly opened channel of the Star Sea Grand Array, circling several times before proceeding outside Xuanyuan Valley.

Outside the valley.

Lan Xishu, Shi Qianjie, Yang Qian, Jiang Jianxi, and the rest of the Guiyuan Sect group looked relaxed, each sporting a slight smile, pointing at Xuanyuan Valley and making comments, showing no sign of preparing for combat.

“The Star Sea Grand Array of the Aoluo Divine Cult!” The fat man, Hu Hao, had a sharp glint in his eyes as his gaze fixed on the sky above Xuanyuan Valley.

Above Xuanyuan Valley, extremely dense Heavenly Yuan Qi gathered, forming a miniature galaxy. Specks of starlight shone down, illuminating Xuanyuan Valley. The concentrated, almost palpable Heavenly and Earthly Yuan Qi was astonishing, even more vital than that of Kunlun Mountain where they were currently standing.

There were few truly prime cultivation sites in the world, and Kunlun was one of the most famous. Those in Guiyuan who cultivated in Kunlun deeply understood how dense its Heavenly and Earthly Yuan Qi was.

For generations like Lan Xishu, Yang Qian, and Jiang Jianxi, it had been a given that no other sect in the world could surpass Kunlun in terms of cultivation benefits.

Yet, merely standing outside Xuanyuan Valley, observing it, they could clearly perceive that the Heavenly and Earthly Yuan Qi within Xuanyuan Valley surpassed even that of their Kunlun.

“What a grand undertaking!” The fat man, Hu Hao, couldn't help but exclaim. “The Star River Array of the Aoluo Divine Cult has always been called the ultimate Spirit-Gathering Ancient Array of Heaven and Earth. I used to be skeptical, but seeing it today, I realize the rumors are true! The previously unremarkable Xuanyuan Valley, precisely because of the power of the Star Sea Grand Array, has gathered so much Heavenly and Earthly Yuan Qi, becoming the sect with the supreme spiritual energy in the world!”

“Such a treasure trove for cultivation can certainly lead to an abundance of masters in Xuanyuan Valley. Given time, Xuanyuan Valley will become another sacred land in the world,” Lan Xishu sighed.

Hu Hao nodded lightly. “Indeed. The density of Heavenly and Earthly Yuan Qi has a massive impact on us cultivators. Cultivating in such a place accelerates progress significantly compared to other locations. A child who cultivates in Xuanyuan Valley from birth, with the same temperament and resilience, will be at least one full realm, perhaps even two, stronger than their peers.”

“It seems Xuanyuan Valley truly is a troublesome headache. If we cannot shock them now, they genuinely might stop fearing us in the future,” Hu Hao mused, stroking his chin. “Everyone, do not be complacent on this trip. We must uphold the reputation of the Guiyuan Sect. Let the Old Ghost do as he pleases, but we cannot allow the thousand-year fame of the Guiyuan Sect to be tarnished in our hands!”

Upon hearing Hu Hao’s words, the expressions of Lan Xishu, Shi Qianjie, and the younger generation turned serious. Even the usually nonchalant Jiang Jianxi wore a solemn look.

Mo Yunyi, Xiao Xing, Gui Hai, and Ji Yuxing, following Mu Luo’s instructions, circled several times before finally emerging from Xuanyuan Valley.

As the mist dissipated, they were met by Lan Xishu and his group. Lan Xishu and the others now wore grave expressions, their previous ease vanished. This immediately alerted Mo Yunyi and the others that the Guiyuan Sect people indeed came with bad intentions.

Mo Yunyi’s gaze swept over the Guiyuan Sect members. She paused slightly upon seeing the fat man, Hu Hao, as she could not discern his true cultivation level.

When she noticed that even Lan Xishu and the others stood before the fat man with cautious demeanors, Mo Yunyi, adept at reading subtle signs, instantly realized that the fat man Hu Hao was no ordinary person. Recalling Xiao Xing’s earlier words, Mo Yunyi’s heart sank; she knew that fat man Hu Hao must be the Nine Palaces Celestial Master.

Xiao Xing greeted the opposing group with a calm smile but deferred the right to speak to Ji Yuxing.

Ji Yuxing, being the weakest among the group, barely having reached the Seven-Star Celestial Realm, was nevertheless the official head of the Ji Family. In such a setting, it was appropriate for him to speak first.

Under everyone’s gaze, Ji Yuxing cleared his throat nervously, feigning composure, and stated solemnly, “May I ask why you esteemed guests have graced our Xuanyuan Valley?”

Lan Xishu glanced at the fat man Hu Hao, and at his silent signal, stepped forward with a smile. “No need for subtlety among clear-minded people. I will speak plainly. We have come to Xuanyuan Valley this time concerning the matter of our Guiyuan Sect’s Three Grand Elders.”

“The unfortunate fate of your Three Grand Elders in the East Sea has certainly been widely rumored throughout the realm. However, these are merely rumors, and the East Sea is so far from our Central Plains. It’s not certain that it involves our Changkong. But since matters have come to this, pretending ignorance is impossible,” Ji Yuxing thought, needing to make a token gesture, to stall as long as possible.

“Heh heh, we know rumors may not be entirely true, which is why we have come to Xuanyuan Valley to seek verification.”

Unexpectedly, Lan Xishu’s attitude was very amiable. He smiled and said, “We merely wish to meet Ji Changkong and hear his account of the situation. Since our three elders are gone, we currently only have the primary party to question. We hope you will allow us to see him.”

“This…” Ji Yuxing frowned, looking troubled. “I apologize, my grandson has not yet returned.”

“I understand,” Lan Xishu remained unfazed. “Fortunately, we have the time. If it is permissible, we plan to wait here in Xuanyuan Valley. Heh heh, we also heard some news that Ji Changkong left East Heaven Peak a few days ago. Based on the travel time, he should be returning in the next day or two.”

“This…” Ji Yuxing looked increasingly conflicted, casting glances towards Xiao Xing and Mo Yunyi.

Mo Yunyi nodded gently.

“Very well, if you do not mind, you may rest briefly in the outer perimeter of my Xuanyuan Valley. Due to the matter of the Ghost Demon King, we have gathered quite a few people inside, and it is less convenient inside,” Ji Yuxing delivered the prepared explanation.

“The Star Sea Grand Array is impressive!” At this moment, the fat man Hu Hao suddenly spoke up. He frowned as he looked toward the sky above Xuanyuan Valley. “However, as far as I know, this Star Sea Grand Array originated from the Aoluo Divine Cult, correct? How does Xuanyuan Valley know how to utilize it? Could it be that Xuanyuan Valley has connections with that heretical cult in the Western Regions?”

The trouble has arrived!

Mo Yunyi, Xiao Xing, and the others inwardly gasped, simultaneously shifting their gaze toward Hu Hao.

“The status of the Aoluo Divine Cult in the Western Regions is akin to that of your Guiyuan Sect in the Tianwu Nation. How can they be considered a heretical cult? Moreover, it is precisely because of the Aoluo Divine Cult’s existence that the Manichaean Cult cannot launch a major invasion against the Tianwu Nation. In this regard, the Aoluo Divine Cult is somewhat beneficial to our Central Plains. Our relationship with the Aoluo Divine Cult is merely one of friendship. The path of Celestial Master cultivation should be about learning from others, not being so constrained by sectarian disputes,” Xiao Xing smiled faintly, helping the tongue-tied Ji Yuxing reply.

“Patriarch Xiao is indeed extraordinary. Although the Xiao Family’s power is not overtly displayed among the Seven Great Families, they are the least to be underestimated. Seeing you today, your reputation is well-deserved. For the master of the Xiao Family to willingly be subservient in Xuanyuan Valley is surprising to me,” the fat man Hu Hao said, the fat on his face wobbling slightly as he nodded. He did not dwell on the Star Sea Grand Array matter. “Very well. We will enter the valley for a visit. As soon as that brat Ji Changkong returns and states he had nothing to do with our Three Grand Elders, we will turn around and leave immediately, lingering no longer in the valley.”

Everyone knew the situation would not be that simple.

Led by Mo Yunyi, the Guiyuan Sect group was guided to a massive circular platform outside Xuanyuan Valley. Cushions, snacks, and fruits were arranged on the platform; some people from the valley had already made preparations.

With these dozen or so 'Great Bodhisattvas' seated there, everyone in the valley felt uneasy, secretly maintaining their vigilance. Mo Yunyi and Ji Yuxing kept them company for a while before excusing themselves with a pretext, telling them to make themselves comfortable.

‘Make themselves comfortable’ meant they could not go anywhere. The area around this circular platform was surrounded by restrictions set by Mu Luo. Without Mu Luo’s authorization, any unauthorized movement would immediately trigger the prohibitions, potentially leading to unknown consequences.

“This Star Sea Grand Array is truly exceptional. Rushing through it rashly will certainly lead to a lot of trouble,” Lan Xishu observed while looking around. After Mo Yunyi and the others departed, Lan Xishu surveyed the surroundings, then subtly released his divine sense to probe carefully, sighing with emotion.

Yang Qian, Jiang Jianxi, and the others also nodded silently, all finding the ancient array of the Aoluo Divine Cult quite troublesome.

Only Hu Hao remained composed, sitting there without a word. After a while, he suddenly narrowed his eyes and said, “I’m going to take a short nap. Just wake me up when that brat returns.”

With that, he ignored whether others agreed or not, lowered his head, and his loud snores soon echoed out.

In the center of Xuanyuan Valley.

Mu Luo suddenly grew tense!

At that precise moment, he faintly realized he was losing control of the Star Sea Grand Array. Many of the array's restrictions were suddenly breached by some mysterious power, causing them to simultaneously lose their intended defensive strength.

“What’s happening?” Han Feng asked in surprise. Being close to Mu Luo, he immediately noticed Mu Luo’s expression was wrong.

Mu Luo didn't speak, sweat beading on his brow as he desperately tried to regain control over the forces within the restrictions.

However, no matter how hard Mu Luo struggled, the power in those restrictions was rapidly dissipating. The Heavenly and Earthly Yuan Qi within the Star Sea Grand Array also lost its connection with those restrictions. The power of the stars and the earth could no longer be infused into the mechanisms. Without this power, the containment force within the Star Sea Grand Array was almost completely defunct.

The thick mist covering Xuanyuan Valley, for unknown reasons, began to slowly thin out.

Even the miniature galaxy cloud mass above Xuanyuan Valley was gradually fading. If it weren't for the Yuan Qi that had accumulated there for a long time, the stellar cloud mass would have thinned to invisibility in an instant.

Everyone in Xuanyuan Valley sensed the abnormal change in the valley. Those who had chosen to stay suddenly grew tense, staring blankly at the changes overhead.

“The Nine Palaces Celestial Master! Only the power of a Nine Palaces Celestial Master could alter the flow of Heavenly and Earthly Yuan Qi within Xuanyuan Valley. It must be that fat man! Only he can achieve this feat.”

Xiao Xing frowned deeply. “Let's hope he isn't preparing to strike now. Otherwise, so many people in Xuanyuan Valley might not withstand such oppressive force.”

Tension gripped everyone in Xuanyuan Valley.

Beside Hu Hao, Lan Xishu and the other Guiyuan Sect members wore smiles at the corners of their mouths, looking at the fat man with strange expressions.

Lan Xishu and the other Guiyuan experts clearly knew their Martial Uncle had already acted in secret, using his cultivation in the Nine Palaces Celestial Realm to intimidate everyone in Xuanyuan Valley, showing them that although the power within the valley was formidable, it was far from being a match for the Guiyuan Sect!

Watching the restrictions in Xuanyuan Valley fail one after another, Mu Luo was at a loss, trying every method but failing to reverse the change.

Mo Yunyi and the others watched Mu Luo anxiously, hoping he could salvage some dignity for Xuanyuan Valley, preventing the valley residents from feeling too humiliated.

Members of the He Family and the Star Stone Sect also emerged from their temporary resting spots and approached Mo Yunyi and Xiao Poshan, inquiring about the intentions of the Guiyuan envoys. When Xiao Xing explained with a wry smile that a Nine Palaces Celestial Master had come from the Guiyuan Sect, many younger members of the He Family and Star Stone Sect began to panic.

It wasn't just them; everyone who remained in Xuanyuan Valley, upon hearing that a Nine Palaces Celestial Master had arrived, looked ashen, as if already defeated.

The mist, which was nearly completely dissipated, suddenly began to thicken again!

The panicked people of Xuanyuan Valley froze, looking up at the sky, then their gazes converged on Mu Luo.

Mu Luo, who had his eyes tightly shut with a worried expression, suddenly relaxed his brow, but his face showed confusion. He opened his eyes and looked strangely at the increasingly dense clouds, appearing as bewildered as everyone else about what was happening.

“Elder Mu Luo, this… what is going on?” Mo Yunyi asked.

Mu Luo shook his head, appearing utterly perplexed. “I don’t know either. It has nothing to do with me. Suddenly, the restrictions that had lost their power were refilled by some kind of force.”

Everyone was astonished, exchanging glances; no one knew what had transpired.

“Could it be… could it be Old Monster Li has returned? I heard Old Monster Li cultivated to the Nine Palaces Celestial Realm. If he were to step in and obstruct that fat man, it’s possible he could restore the Star Sea Grand Array to its proper function,” Han Feng speculated.

“It couldn't be him. Cutting off the Yuan Qi of the Star Sea Grand Array is easy, but refilling it is not. Furthermore, those who do not understand the profound principles of the Star Sea Grand Array would find it difficult to restore power to those restrictions,” Mu Luo explained to the group in simpler terms. “It’s like building a house—destruction is easy, anyone can do it. But construction is not something everyone is capable of.”

Hearing this explanation, everyone nodded in understanding.

“Could it be Changkong has returned? This Star Sea Grand Array was essentially his creation. Only he could possibly set the Star Sea Grand Array right again!” Ji Yuxing suddenly exclaimed with excitement.

“No, after the restrictions of the Star Sea Grand Array became active again, they are not quite the same as before… they seem to be… somewhat detached from the pattern of our Aoluo Divine Cult’s array,” Mu Luo shook his head again.

The guesswork was over for everyone now; their faces registered nothing but confusion, utterly failing to grasp what had just transpired. Hu Hao, who had been snoring loudly with his eyes squinted shut, suddenly awoke!

Shi Qianjie and his companions, equally bewildered, simultaneously fixed their gaze upon Hu Hao. “Martial Uncle, what is happening?” Lan Xishu asked.

Hu Hao’s eyes were wide with astonishment, as if he hadn't heard Lan Xishu’s query. After a considerable pause, Hu Hao slowly lowered his head to look at the ground beneath his feet, muttering...

The contingent from the Guiyuan Sect were one by one more perplexed than the last, all staring blankly at Hu Hao. Jiang Jianxi questioned, “Martial Uncle, what exactly is going on?

Please explain clearly.” “The Azure Dragon, the Sacred Beast!” Hu Hao roared, his expression grave. “Ji Family’s Xuanyuan is truly favored by the Four Divine Beasts; it’s no mere rumor!” “The power of the Sacred Beast Azure Dragon?” Lan Xishu cried out in alarm, his face draining of color.

“How is that possible? Haven’t the Four Divine Beasts always remained aloof from mortal affairs?

Besides, aren’t all Four Divine Beasts deep in slumber? Why, why would it involve itself in the affairs of Xuanyuan Valley?” “The Ji Family’s Xuanyuan are the guardians of worldly order chosen by the Four Divine Beasts.

It’s only natural they receive some special attention,” Hu Hao frowned, murmuring, “but I never anticipated that deep beneath Xuanyuan Valley, the Sacred Beast Azure Dragon was actually latent...” Hu Hao snorted, growing indignant. “That old devil must have known about the Azure Dragon in Xuanyuan Valley, yet he never told me!

What is that old coot trying to achieve?” “Master knew?” Shi Qianjie asked. “Very much so,” Hu Hao was deeply vexed.

“That old monster has been around the vicinity of Tianshan several times, looking for a fight with Gu Bang. Xuanyuan Valley is so close to Tianshan; how could he have visited the area and not sensed the location of the Sacred Beast Azure Dragon?” Shi Qianjie and the others froze, their faces blank with confusion as to what their master was truly planning.

“Could it be that…” Hu Hao’s expression didn't change, and he suddenly cut himself off. Xuanyuan Valley was once again shrouded in swirling mists, but after just fifteen minutes, the clouds dispersed once more.

Both the people of Xuanyuan Valley and those from the Guiyuan Sect stood stunned, baffled as to why the fog and the restrictions within Xuanyuan Valley had inexplicably vanished again. Mulu’s face suddenly lit up.

“The Master is back.” “Ah!” Ji Yuxing gasped. “Are you certain?” Mulu nodded.

“The current restrictions within the valley have been lifted using conventional methods. No outsider would know how to do this!

It must be the Master who did it!” The people inside the valley rejoiced. Indeed, after a short while, the smoke enveloping Xuanyuan Valley slowly retreated, seeping into the crevices of the surrounding rock walls, and soon, the light inside the valley was restored.

In the center of Xuanyuan Valley, directly beneath the feet of Mo Yunyi and his group, a figure slowly emerged from the stone. Simultaneously, outside the gradually clearing valley, a lean figure walked into Xuanyuan Valley with a cold expression, unhurried and unperturbed.

His eyes were fixed firmly on Hu Hao, his intent to fight glaringly obvious. “Changkong!

Changkong!” Mo Yunyi and the others cried out in delighted surprise, collectively letting out a sigh of relief. Unconsciously, they had come to view Ji Changkong as the backbone of the Ji Family.

Among them were men much older than Ji Changkong, and several whose cultivation realms were deeper than his. Yet, when facing critical moments, they would always think of Ji Changkong, feeling that he alone could handle the crisis they faced with composure.

This was because, in previous major battles, Ji Changkong had always demonstrated a strength capable of turning the tide in unexpected ways, managing to resolve every crisis without apparent danger. “Bagua Heaven Realm!” Xiao Poshan suddenly exclaimed, his voice laced with disbelief.

The moment the five words, Bagua Heaven Realm, left his mouth, everyone in Xuanyuan Valley was dumbfounded, staring at Ji Changkong as if he were a monster. He had only left Xuanyuan Valley a few months prior.

Previously, at the Seven Star Heaven Realm, he could only achieve spiritual travel to the Tianheng Star. In such a short time, he had broken through multiple barriers to reach the Bagua Heaven Realm—what kind of terrifying speed of progress was this?

If they hadn't witnessed it firsthand, they would never have believed it. Although there was only a single character difference between a Seven Star Heaven master and a Bagua Heaven master, the implications were vastly different.

When Ji Changkong was at the Seven Star Heaven Realm, he could fight evenly with Bagua Heaven masters. Now that he had broken through to the Bagua Heaven Realm, just how powerful was his true strength?

The crowd thought this over, and the panic caused by the pressure from the Guiyuan Sect strangely began to subside. Hu Hao narrowed his eyes, gazing deeply at Li Hentian, and nodded gently.

Ji Changkong moved away from the group, pacing to stand before the arrivals from Guiyuan Sect, positioning himself shoulder-to-shoulder with Li Hentian, meeting the gaze of the Guiyuan visitors. “Heh heh,” Lan Xishu smiled before speaking, looking kindly at Ji Changkong.

“You must be Ji Changkong?” “Yes. What business do you have?” Ji Changkong asked, feigning ignorance.

“Our sect’s Zhuang Bufeng did not die in vain. Is this related to you?” Lan Xishu maintained his smile, maintaining his polite demeanor.

“We trust the word of the Ji Family’s Xuanyuan. If you say it has nothing to do with you, we will leave immediately and not linger in Xuanyuan Valley for another moment.” “I killed them,” Ji Changkong looked at Lan Xishu, stating plainly.

“On White Bone Island in the Sea Demon Forbidden Ground, they were first injured by me, then besieged by our combined forces, and finally devoured by the Three-Headed Sky-Winged Dragon’s physical body! Of course, their divine souls couldn't escape either; I conveniently followed up with Heavenly Lightning to help them achieve transcendence.” Lan Xishu smiled.

“Courageous and forthright; Young Master Ji truly does not disappoint.” Turning slightly to glance at Hu Hao, and upon receiving a slight nod from Hu Hao, Lan Xishu continued, “Zhuang Bufeng was a member of our Guiyuan Sect. We have come to Xuanyuan Valley to seek justice.” “They intended to kill my kin, so I killed them.

It is only natural. What justice is there to speak of?” Ji Changkong frowned, his expression slowly darkening.

“Li Hentian committed numerous heinous crimes in our Tianwu Nation in those years, murdering countless people and slaughtering several Heaven Master Sects. His deeds were appalling, deserving execution by all.

Our three esteemed elders from Guiyuan Sect were acting righteously on behalf of Heaven. Even if you didn’t show filial piety by executing him, you actually killed them.

You were in the wrong here,” Lan Xishu stated with utter seriousness and righteous indignation. “Nonsense,” Ji Changkong sneered, refusing to yield an inch.

He retorted sharply, “If someone killed your friends and relatives, would you help them?” “Naturally not,” Lan Xishu replied casually, sounding slightly awkward. “Those are two different matters.” Yang Qian, Jiang Jianxi, and the other Guiyuan visitors smirked, appearing relaxed.

“Forget it; talking further is pointless. State clearly what you want.

I’m tired of wasting words with you,” Ji Changkong found the man annoying. “Ahem, ahem,” Lan Xishu coughed, preparing to launch into the righteous speech he had long prepared.

Just then, Shi Qianjie, who had remained silent, stepped forward carrying his sword, barefoot. He suddenly blocked Lan Xishu, looking at Ji Changkong with an expression that implied utter decisiveness, a grin splitting his face.

“It’s simple! You and I will settle it!

Fight me! If you lose, you must personally go to our Guiyuan Sect to erect a memorial stele for the three elders of Zhuang Bufeng and apologize!

If you win, then you were right to kill them, and you killed well! Those three deserved their fate, and everything else can be dropped!” “Ahem, ahem,” Lan Xishu hastily grabbed Shi Qianjie’s arm, chuckling dryly.

“That’s not what we agreed on earlier.” Shoving Lan Xishu aside, Shi Qianjie looked utterly unconcerned with propriety. “Master Senior Brother, I’ve already spoken; my words can’t be taken back.

Everything before this is void! From this moment on, anyone who blocks my path, I count as an enemy!” “Damn it!

He’s exactly like that old coot!” Hu Hao muttered with a low laugh, swiftly intervening to stop Lan Xishu. He smiled broadly.

“Let him mess around. That’s how it will be!” “Martial Uncle, but you previously said—” Lan Xishu looked utterly crestfallen.

“Plans change, don’t they? It’s settled then,” Hu Hao roared with laughter.

Truly living up to his name! Lan Xishu glared resentfully at Hu Hao, thinking furiously to himself.

The people of Xuanyuan Valley were all stunned. They stared at the opposing Guiyuan Sect members with peculiar expressions, listening to their haphazard discussions that resulted in such a strategy.

Mo Yunyi, Gui Hai, and the others exchanged glances, their looks incredibly odd. The so-called number one sect in the world—are these the most outstanding members they send out?

These people are bizarre beyond measure! What kind of age is this?

The conduct of the Guiyuan Sect disciples was completely beyond the expectations of the Xuanyuan Valley group. They had never imagined that the aloof and lofty Guiyuan Sect would dispatch core experts who were so utterly interesting, seemingly all a little abnormal.

“What do you say?” Shi Qianjie stepped forward again, his long sword scraping a deep groove into the stone slabs, his eyes locked onto Ji Changkong with a look of wild intensity. “No problem,” Ji Changkong smiled freely.

“It benefits us all if this matter doesn’t spread. This is indeed a good method.” With that, he glanced disdainfully at Lan Xishu.

“Everything that man said before was utter nonsense. This is how it should have been settled from the start.” “Yes, definitely nonsense,” Shi Qianjie agreed, ignoring Lan Xishu’s sour face.

He then looked toward the outside of Xuanyuan Valley. “I’ll wait for you outside.” Saying that, Shi Qianjie immediately turned, dragging his massive long sword, and strode out with a bold, self-assured air, as if the world, though vast, belonged only to him.

“So cool! He’s absolutely mesmerizing!” “So stylish!” “That guy is such a show-off, but I like it!” Inside Xuanyuan Valley, some of the third-generation young women from the various powers of the Original Blood Rain Alliance watched Shi Qianjie’s receding figure with sparkling eyes, murmuring softly with smiles.

“Changkong, be careful!” Ji Wanyun moved closer to Ji Changkong and cautioned him in a low voice. “Be careful!” Baili Xiu shouted loudly from behind Baili Ke.

Zhou Qiangwei, who had remained in Xuanyuan Valley, watched Ji Changkong silently, her eyes filled with worry as well. He Liying’s expression was complex; she looked at Ji Changkong without speaking, pursing her lips and murmuring quietly, “It should be fine.” Ji Changkong smiled, composed as ever.

“Don't laugh, but right now, my self-confidence has swelled to its absolute peak. I fear no one at the moment.” “Be wary of that kid… he’s not simple,” Xiao Xing patted Ji Changkong’s shoulder with significant meaning.

The fact that the Guiyuan Sect, after learning Ji Changkong killed the three Bagua Heaven masters of Zhuang Bufeng, was still willing to let Shi Qianjie act recklessly was proof enough of how terrifying Shi Qianjie must be. What puzzled Xiao Xing most was that he had never even known about the existence of such a figure in the Guiyuan Sect.

He couldn’t fathom where Shi Qianjie had suddenly appeared from, as even the Xiao Family’s intelligence network, which spanned the entire world, hadn’t registered Shi Qianjie’s presence. This gave Xiao Xing a faint sense of unease.

Just as Ji Changkong prepared to walk outside, Li Hentian suddenly stepped forward, looking at the stout Hu Hao. “That year, on Kunlun Mountain, was it you who warned me?” “It was,” Hu Hao’s expression darkened slightly.

When he looked at others, he was always smiling, but his face was never pleasant when dealing with Li Hentian. Nodding lightly, Li Hentian stated, “Good.

I understand your purpose now. Let’s go.” Li Hentian twisted his shoulders and vanished into thin air.

Hu Hao gave a slight snort and stretched languidly. Under everyone’s gaze, he, too, disappeared without a trace.

Everyone released their divine senses but could not detect the aura of either man, as if they had never appeared there at all. Staring deeply at the spot where Li Hentian had vanished, Ji Changkong frowned slightly but said nothing more.

He sank into the stone beneath his feet, disappearing from view until the rock closed over his head. In the back mountains of Xuanyuan Valley, the ground was littered with variegated stones.

Shi Qianjie leaned against a large boulder, holding his sword, his expression calm as he waited silently. On a flat stretch of ground before him, Ji Changkong’s figure slowly materialized.

With a slight movement of his mind, the Dragon Blaze Saber was already grasped tightly in his hand. Shi Qianjie suddenly erupted, his presence like a mountain, releasing a vast and heavy power.

Simultaneously, Shi Qianjie’s soul power continuously intensified; his soul magnetic field was as boundless and vast as an ocean, threatening to drown everything. Frowning slightly, Ji Changkong focused his attention to the extreme, looking at Shi Qianjie with profound astonishment.

Shi Qianjie was in the Bagua Heaven Realm, yet the strength of his soul power surpassed the combined total of the three elders of Zhuang Bufeng! Not only was the Yuan Force within his body immense, but it was also incomparably pure!

Like liquid mercury, that Yuan Force flowed slowly within him, terrifying power gathering, gathering, and gathering relentlessly! In just this single instant, Shi Qianjie’s soul, as well as the Yuan Force within his body, had increased by more than threefold!

Far exceeding Ji Changkong’s initial estimation. And this was before the actual battle even began.

“Before we fight, I must thank you. Thank you for helping me kill those three, Zhuang Bufeng and the others.

If you hadn't done it, I would have dealt with them myself recently,” Shi Qianjie stated. Ji Changkong was surprised, his expression momentarily stunned.

At that very moment, Shi Qianjie suddenly struck. (To be continued)