The young girl had only brought Yang Kai to the central courtyard when they were surrounded by a dozen members of the Zhang Family.
“Who goes there!” Someone shouted, looking wary.
“It’s Senior Yang, Senior Yang!” The young girl was extremely excited and wouldn’t let go of Yang Kai’s arm, constantly repeating his name aloud.
“It’s highly improper for a young woman to be shouting like that!” A familiar voice emerged, followed by the appearance of the voluptuous figure of a beautiful woman. The woman resembled Ruo Xi greatly.
“Mother, Senior Yang came to visit!” The young girl quickly shouted.
“What Senior Yang?” The beautiful woman frowned, but coming closer and taking a good look at him, she covered her lips and exclaimed in surprise, “Senior Yang!”
“Madam Zhang, I trust you’ve been well since we last met!” Yang Kai smiled. This beautiful woman was none other than Ruo Xi’s mother, Ning Su Wan.
Ning Su Wan was out of it for a long while before she smiled happily, “Senior Yang still looks as youthful as ever!” After a pause, she suddenly remembered to tell the young girl holding Yang Kai’s arm, “Ruo Yu, go and ask your Grandmother to come out.”
“Yes!” The young girl called Ruo Yu quickly rushed inside.
Ning Su Wan looked behind Yang Kai, but didn’t see the figure she was hoping to see, her pretty face changing as she asked with a tremor in her voice, “Senior Yang… is Ruo Xi…”
Yang Kai smiled, “Don’t worry, everything is fine with Ruo Xi, there were just some things she had to attend to so she couldn’t come this time.”
Only after hearing Yang Kai’s answer did Ning Su Wan pat her chest in relief. She was truly afraid she would hear some bad news from Yang Kai. When the Zhang Family was being bullied last time, it was Yang Kai who stepped in to save them. After that, Zhang Ruo Xi left with Yang Kai, and it had been a decade since she’d last seen her daughter or heard any news about her. Naturally, Ning Su Wan missed her very much. Things had not been as peaceful outside as things within the Zhang Family. In the past, Yang Kai may have performed quite well, but as they broadened their horizons over the years, the Zhang Family also got to know that the Yang Kai of back then wasn’t actually that powerful.
If he really did provoke a powerful opponent outside, then he may have ended up dragging Ruo Xi into trouble.
Fortunately, Yang Kai came and assured her that Ruo Xi was safe and sound.
“Senior Yang, please come inside!” With her mind at ease, Ning Su Wan gestured politely with her hand. Even though she had a bellyful of questions, years of polishing had taught her to remain calm, and she naturally knew that this was not the best time for questions.
At this time, many of the Zhang Family members who came over realized who Yang Kai was. Many of them had also met Yang Kai back then, and even if they’d never met him personally, they’d heard about him and knew that he was the one who took Ruo Xi away.
All the hostility and vigilance disappeared instantly and was replaced by kindness and smiles.
Ning Su Wan led Yang Kai into the Zhang Family parlour where he was seated, and someone immediately came over to serve tea.
Before they could say more than a few words, an old voice suddenly came from the outside, “Senior Yang has come?”
Yang Kai quickly got up to see an old woman walk out step by step with Zhang Ruo Yu’s support, her clouded eyes immediately lighting up with a bright light. The old woman looked over and said in pleasant surprise, “It really is Senior Yang! This old woman greets Senior Yang!”
Yang Kai was shocked and immediately reached out to lift her up and exclaimed in panic, “Old Madam, please, you mustn’t. This Junior is undeserving of such honours.”
Old Lady Zhang, however, insisted, “No, I should. If not for you, then the Zhang Family would have ceased to be at that time.”
“I was merely entrusted by someone else to help, there’s no need to mention what happened back then,” Yang Kai shook his head slowly and helped Old Lady Zhang up to the main seat and settled her down before returning to his own seat.
Ning Su Wan watched this scene quietly, the corners of her mouth curving up into a smile of relief.
Even though the Zhang Family agreed to Yang Kai taking Ruo Xi away, everyone knew something would definitely happen if a young and talented man like Yang Kai were to bring along a beautiful young woman with him. It was just a matter of time before Ruo Xi was taken in as Yang Kai’s wife.
In other words, Ning Su Wan had long considered Yang Kai as the Zhang Family’s son-in-law.
Only, this son-in-law was stronger than the Zhang Family, so even though she was certain of this reality, she couldn’t just go around talking about it lest she make things difficult for Ruo Xi.
But seeing that Yang Kai didn’t have the least bit of arrogance in him, and was showing proper respect to the elderly and kindness to the young, Ning Su Wan knew he had a good heart.
“Senior Yang…” Old Lady Zhang sat down and had just opened her mouth when Yang Kai waved his hand and said, “Old Madam can just call me by my name, no need to address me as Senior.”
Old Lady Zhang said, “But how could this…”
Ning Su Wan smiled, “Mother, since Yang Kai insists, then why make him sound like a stranger?”
Upon hearing this, Old Lady Zhang seemed to understand something and smiled, “Then this old woman will be taking advantage of her age!”
“Of course,” Yang Kai nodded.
“How… has Ruo Xi been?”
Ning Su Wan answered, “Yang Kai told us earlier that Ruo Xi is fine, so there’s no need to worry about her, Mother.”
“Truly?” Old Lady Zhang looked earnestly at Yang Kai.
“It’s true,” Yang Kai smiled, “It’s just that Ruo Xi entered retreat some time ago, so she couldn’t come with me this time.”
“All is well if she is well!” Old Lady Zhang looked relieved, “By the way, what realm has Ruo Xi reached?”
The Zhang Family suffered in the past due to their lack of Masters, so they had also been paying special attention to nurturing the next generation. Several disciples with good aptitude had also appeared, but since their family was lacking in resources, their improvement had been slow and their cultivations were quite low. Ning Su Wan, however, was strongly affected by what happened back then and managed to improve her cultivation greatly. However, she was still just a First-Order Dao Source Realm.
Other than her, there were no other Dao Source Realm cultivators in the entire Zhang Family. Old Lady Zhang had an Origin King Realm cultivation, but she was too old and her vitality was in decline, so she simply could not fight at full strength anymore.
In other words, Ning Su Wan had been the one holding up the Zhang Family all these years.
“Ruo Xi is… already a Third-Order Dao Source Realm!” After some thought, Yang Kai didn’t dare to reveal the full truth.
Ruo Xi’s current cultivation really wasn’t easy to judge. Before that event, she was indeed a Third-Order Dao Source Realm, but an average First-Order Emperor Realm Master likely wouldn’t be her opponent. Now that she was inheriting the power of the mysterious Heavens Order inside the Blood Gate, there was no telling what sort of growth she would achieve once she came out.
The entire Zhang Family parlour instantly went quiet after Yang Kai said this. All of them were staring at him dumbfoundedly. There should have been joy and excitement, but instead, they seemed to be in disbelief.
It wasn’t that they didn’t trust Yang Kai, but his statement was just… a little too shocking.
It had to be known that Zhang Ruo Xi was only an Origin Returning Realm Junior when Yang Kai took her away back then. After that realm was the Origin King Realm, then the Dao Source Realm…
There was a great gap between the Origin King Realm and Dao Source Realm that not just anyone could cross. If not for this, Dao Source Realm cultivators in the Zhang Family wouldn’t be so scarce. Even if Ruo Xi’s aptitude was good and she really managed to break through to the Dao Source Realm, it should have been impossible for her to advance to the Third-Order in a mere ten years.
It had been only a decade since she left, so how could she possibly have grown from the Origin Returning Realm to the Third-Order Dao Source Realm in that amount of time?
Subconsciously, both Ning Su Wan and Old Lady Zhang felt that Yang Kai was just saying things to reassure them.
“Ruo Xi really is a Third-Order Dao Source Realm now,” Yang Kai asserted when he saw that they didn’t believe him.
Ning Su Wan and Old Lady Zhang looked at each other blankly for a moment before they hesitantly asked, “Then, Yang Kai, what is your current realm?”
Yang Kai did not answer directly and instead just released a little of his Emperor Pressure.
“Emperor Realm!” Ning Su Wan exclaimed in shock while the eyes of the rest of the Zhang Family Juniors went wide.
An Emperor, a real, living, breathing Emperor! Even though there were plenty of Emperor Realm Masters in Maplewood City and Spirit Lake City now, these Senior Experts were not people a small Zhang Family could ever come into contact with, but now, a genuine Emperor Realm Master was sitting in their parlour.
“Now you all believe me, right?” Yang Kai was a little speechless. Fortunately, he didn’t tell them the truth, otherwise, the Zhang Family would probably start to question whether there was something wrong with his head.
“Ruo Xi… She’s really reached the Third-Order Dao Source Realm already?” Ning Su Wan trembled in response to the evidence laid out in front of her.
If Yang Kai’s cultivation had reached the Emperor Realm, then it would not be impossible for Zhang Ruo Xi to be in the Third-Order Dao Source Realm.
“It’s absolutely true!” Yang Kai nodded.
“Good, good, good. The Heavens have blessed my Zhang Family. My Zhang Family has finally produced a Third-Order Dao Source Realm cultivator!” Ning Su Wan’s excitement overwhelmed her, and even the silver-haired Old Lady Zhang had a look of joy on her face. As for the rest of the Zhang Family’s Juniors, they were unable to contain their glee.
A Third-Order Dao Source Realm cultivator, in their eyes, was an unattainable existence, but the Zhang Family had actually produced one, and it was even in the same generation as them.
The young girl called Zhang Ruo Yu had a particularly strong reaction as a burning light flashed past her eyes that seemed able to melt solid ice.
“I came to visit the Zhang Family this time mainly because there is something I wish to discuss with you,” Yang Kai waited for them to calm down a little before continuing.
“Please speak. As long as it is something possible for us, the Zhang Family will surely agree to it,” Ning Su Wan quickly answered. It wasn’t like they could refuse either. How could the requests of an Emperor Realm Master be refused at will?
Yang Kai said, “I wish to bring you all to a place.”
“A place? Where?” Ning Su Wan was taken aback.
“My Sect!” Yang Kai went on, “It’s safe there and the conditions are not at all worse than Spirit Lake Palace. If you were to go there, then there would be no need for you to worry about having a quality cultivation environment. There are people there who can teach the Zhang Family’s disciples to cultivate, and there is also no need to worry about resources.”
Every word Yang Kai spoke made the eyes of the Zhang Family’s Juniors brighten just a little more, filling each of them with anticipation. Yang Kai’s words were like a picture scroll unfolding in front of their eyes, showing them their bright future ahead.
“Such a place exists…?” Ning Su Wan was slightly lost in thought.
“Is Ruo Xi… also there?” Old Lady Zhang asked.
“Currently no, but she will be there in the future,” Yang Kai answered.
“Good, this old woman agrees. Yang Kai, how could the Zhang Family not appreciate your kindness?”
Ning Su Wan also nodded lightly after a moment of silence. If things were truly as good as how Yang Kai described it, then going would naturally bring many benefits. The Zhang Family may have peace now, but there are too many Masters passing through Maplewood City and Spirit Lake City, and any one of them had the ability to destroy the Zhang Family. If they continued staying here without the protection of a Master, then there was no telling when they would be wiped out for some random reason.
“Take care, Brother-in-Law. Come back soon to pick us up!”
Zhang Ruo Yu’s voice sounded from behind, causing Yang Kai who was flying towards Maplewood City to almost dive headfirst into the ground when he heard.
The Zhang Family seemed to have decided that something was going on between Ruo Xi and him.
Yang Kai didn’t bother to argue with them either, so after discussing with the Old Madam of the Zhang Family, he told them to pack their bags and be ready to leave. However, Yang Kai still had some business to settle, and he naturally couldn’t leave right away, so he asked the Zhang Family to wait for him to finish up before he brought them back to his Sect.
Before leaving, Yang Kai left eight Blood Beasts at the Zhang Family just in case anything happened.
These Blood Beasts were refined when he wasn’t that strong, and with the improvement of his strength, he basically had no use for them anymore, but they still had Dao Source Realm-level strength, so they would be a big help when placed in the Zhang Family.
As long as no Emperor Realm Masters came to start trouble with the Zhang Family, these Blood Beasts could protect them for now. But of course, Yang Kai also left the Zhang Family a way to contact him in case of any accidents and also so he could contact them when he was finished with his business.
After being gone a few years from Maplewood City and coming back, things really had changed.
Take, for example, Spirit Lake City. Dao Source Realm cultivators were already a common sight now, while Emperor Realm Masters flew to and fro through the sky, the law enforcement teams not even daring to meddle with them.
Yang Kai headed towards where the Qin Family resided.
A young servant wearing a round cap stood at the entrance, and when he saw Yang Kai walk over, he asked respectfully, “Sir, may this little one ask whom you are seeking?”
“Qin Yao Zhang, Patriarch of the Qin Family. Please pass on the message for me,” Yang Kai responded.
“You’re here to see the Patriarch?” The servant was a little stunned and asked carefully, “May I ask for your name?”
“Just tell him that someone surnamed Yang has come to visit.”
The servant nodded his head, excused himself, and headed into the residence.
Yang Kai stood outside with both hands behind his back, but seeing no movements for a long while, he frowned and probed into the Qin Family with his Divine Sense.
From what he could see with his Divine Sense, things were not much different from when he left back then. The Qin Family did not seem to have gained much from Maplewood City’s rise, but that was not hard to understand. The Qin Family was just a small family to begin with, so although Maplewood City had expanded rapidly, it was too difficult for the Qin Family to reap any significant benefits.
But overall, the cultivators in the Qin Family had improved in strength, likely due to the now rich World Energy in Maplewood City.
[Qin Yu!]
Suddenly, Yang Kai noticed Qin Yu’s figure inside one of the secret rooms. After not seeing her for a few years, this little girl had actually reached the Second-Order Dao Source Realm. Her weak self in the past had been cast off, and her figure had matured quite a lot, with a rosy complexion now adorning her face instead of a pale one. From the looks of it, she was currently in retreat inside a cultivation room.
As expected of the World Tribulation Body, even though she had been facing a fatal disaster, after overcoming it she had received a giant opportunity.
Qin Yu, who was cultivating, suddenly opened her eyes as if she had sensed something, and her beautiful gaze suddenly looked towards Yang Kai’s direction through the many layers of obstructions. A mysterious light flashed across her eyes as if they could pierce through space to see into the very essence of things.
Fated Fortune Heavenly Pupil!
Yang Kai was stunned and quickly used his Divine Sense to isolate himself and conceal his presence as he stood there awkwardly, scratching his nose.
If Qin Yu, who was only a Second-Order Dao Source Realm, really found out that he was spying on her, he would have no face left at all.
But Qin Yu’s changes still shocked Yang Kai. Not to mention her cultivation shooting up, that Fated Fortune Heavenly Pupil also seemed to have become far stronger and more profound. He was an Emperor Realm Master with extremely strong Soul cultivation, but he was still discovered by Qin Yu when he secretly probed the residence. If Qin Yu were to fully mature, one could imagine how powerful she could become.
Divine Sense shifting away, Yang Kai continued looking around other places in the Qin Family.
Inside the secret room, Qin Yu frowned a little, a suspicious look on her face.
She clearly felt a spying gaze just now, but when she chased after it, it suddenly disappeared. There were two possibilities in this situation. Either it was just a misconception, or the cultivation of the person probing around was far higher than her own.
Qin Yu figured that it was the latter. Masters often come and go from Maplewood City, and it was normal for them to inadvertently sweep across this place with their senses. The main point was that Qin Yu didn’t feel any malice from that probe, and since that was the case, there was no problem.
“Sir Luo, this Qin really can’t help it. Please, could you please be lenient for another few days?”
When Yang Kai’s Divine Sense swept over a certain room, he suddenly found Qin Zhao Yang’s trail, but at this moment, the latter had a bitter look on his face and was pleading about something to a luxuriously-dressed man.
Next to him, two maidservants stood there, pale-faced and trembling.
“Can’t help it?” The young man surnamed Luo sneered at Qin Zhao Yang, “Even if you can’t, find a way to get it done! It doesn’t matter if you have to steal or rob to get it done! I don’t need to teach you something as simple as that, do I?”
Qin Yao Zhang’s face changed, and he exclaimed, “How could I possibly do such a thing!”
“You can’t?” The man surnamed Luo grunted before suddenly pointing at the two maidservants to the side and shouting, “Open your dog eyes wide and take a look at these two harlots you sent over today! You think these lowly whores are worthy of serving this Young Lord?”
The two maidservants with low cultivation paled instantly when they were pointed at by this man and kneeled down instantly, bodies trembling all over, seemingly very afraid of him.
Qin Yao Zhang had a bitter face. For a man as old as him to have spittle sprayed over his face by someone who could be his grandson made him furious, and yet he could not vent that anger. In fact, the two maidservants he brought over were by no means bad in appearance. They looked quite delicate actually, but the requirements of this young man surnamed Luo were simply too high and he would accept nothing short of excellent. What’s more, he demanded a different woman each day.
All the prettier maidservants of the Qin Family had already been ravished by him, and Qin Zhao Yang had also brought a number of outside maidservants into the Qin Family, but he still could not meet the needs of this youth.
“It seems like your Qin Family doesn’t need to be sheltered by this Young Lord anymore. Fine, this Young Lord also can’t be bothered, but I’m sure Patriarch Qin knows what the end of the Du Family was better than I,” saying that, the young man surnamed Luo began to walk out.
Qin Zhao Yang’s face changed and he hurried to stop him, “Sir Luo, please wait!”
The young man coldly snorted, “What else do you have to say?”
Qin Zhao Yang said with a look of difficulty, “Please, Sir Luo. Give me two days… No, one day! This Qin will definitely think of a way to satisfy Sir Luo!”
Upon hearing this, the young man surnamed Luo sighed, “Patriarch Qin, it has not been a short time since this Young Lord came to your Qin Family, and since this Young Lord took up residence here, what sort of people dared to find trouble with you or your family?”
“Not a one!” Qin Zhao Yang quickly answered. This young man was not easy to serve, and his lust was simply bottomless. He would not be pleased without a woman every day. Even though the Qin Family was not one of those big families, they still had the ability to find some beautiful maidservants, but the main issue was the fact that this guy changed women too quickly. They could send over two beautiful maidservants, but he would ask for new ones in just a few days. Just like a breeding horse, this young man seemed to only live for enjoying himself.
But what he said was undoubtedly true. No one had come to find trouble with the Qin Family since he arrived. On the other hand, the Du Family offended a Master some days ago, and they were completely uprooted. A family of over a hundred people were exterminated overnight, from their Patriarch right down to their servants.
The rules in Maplewood City were not as strict as Spirit Lake City, and even though there existed a City Lord’s Mansion to maintain order, how could a few weaklings deter the gathered masses? Many Masters had no regard for the City Lord’s Mansion and acted however they pleased in the dark despite seemingly obeying the law on the surface.
And it was for that reason that the large families in Maplewood City had all invited someone with strength and status to protect the peace of their family. But of course, the price they had to pay wouldn’t be small. What the Qin Family had to pay was still on the light side. All they had to do was send a few beautiful maidservants to take care of the young man surnamed Luo every few days. On the other hand, some families had to surrender seventy percent of their annual earnings to their protectors, which was simply a nightmare.
“ Patriarch Qin is also an understanding man,” the young man surnamed Luo smiled and patted Qin Zhao Yang’s shoulder. “This Young Lord has a proposal, I wonder if the Qin Family Patriarch is willing to accept it.”
Qin Zhao Yang’s heart jumped as he couldn’t help but have a bad feeling in his gut hearing this; however, he could only grit his teeth and say, “This Qin is willing to listen.”
The cultivator surnamed Luo grinned meaningfully and whispered, “Doesn’t Patriarch Qin have an outstanding granddaughter? As long as…”
“Absolutely not!” Qin Zhao Yang was shocked and quickly refused. The extreme lust of this cultivator surnamed Luo was precisely the reason why he had Qin Yu enter retreat in that secret room, telling her not to come out for any reason. He didn’t expect that this incarnation of lust would still have his eyes on her even after that.
Ever since Yang Kai returned from the Four Seasons Realm and brought back the Tribulation Fruit, resolving the danger of Qin Yu’s World Tribulation Body, Qin Yu had shown extraordinary aptitude for cultivation. In just a few short years, she had already reached the Second-Order Dao Source Realm, and in time, there may even be the possibility of her ascending to the Emperor Realm.
The Qin Family’s future rested on Qin Yu’s shoulders. Not to mention his most precious granddaughter, Qin Zhao Yang couldn’t use any of his descendants as a bargaining chip.
As for the maidservants he bought in order to serve that cultivator surnamed Luo, Qin Zhao Yang explained the situation to them and only took them back to the Qin Family after they themselves agreed.
Qin Yu would never agree to such a thing, and Qin Zhao Yang would never consider it either.
“Why not?” The young man’s face turned dark as if his majesty was being challenged.
“This won’t do. Anything but this…” Qin Zhao Yang waved his hands repeatedly.
His staunch refusal angered the young man instantly and he shouted, “You say no, but this Young Lord doesn’t see any problem with it! Rest assured, as long as your granddaughter can commit her body to this Young Lord, anything is negotiable with the Qin Family! I will go and look for her now, you need not get involved!”
While speaking, he began to walk out as if he had long known where Qin Yu was.
Qin Zhao Yang was shocked and appalled. He wanted to stop that cultivator surnamed Luo, but he ended up grabbing empty air as the latter slipped away like a loach.
When the cultivator surnamed Luo opened the door to leave though, he was stunned to find someone blocking his path.
“Make way!” The young man surnamed Luo was in a hurry to look for Qin Yu, so how could he still have any mind to stay here? As such, without hesitation, he thrust his palm out.
The man blocking his path, however, didn’t even try to dodge, instead lifting his hand lightly and poking out with the tip of his finger towards the cultivator surnamed Luo’s palm.
A piercing pain suddenly filled the young man surnamed Luo’s body, and as if he had been struck by lightning, he shivered and leapt back, finally looking up in shock and horror and shouting, “Who?!”
Qin Zhao Yang was also stunned at the sudden situation, and it wasn’t until the smell of blood reached the tip of his nose that he came back to his senses. Looking up, he was dumbfounded as he called out, “Little Brother Yang!”
Qin Zhao Yang was staring blankly at the figure blocking the doorway. He didn’t think that Yang Kai would actually appear at this critical moment, and even managed to injure Luo Ping with a single finger! But then Qin Zhao Yang began to panic. Yang Kai may not know who Luo Ping was, but he did. He was simply not someone that they could afford to provoke. If that wasn’t the case, Luo Ping wouldn’t have been qualified to protect the Qin Family.
“Patriarch Qin, I trust you’ve been well since we last met!” Yang Kai smiled.
At this time, the young servant with the round cap appeared behind Yang Kai with a bitter look on his face as he said, “Patriarch, this man said he wanted to see you. This little one came to report, but didn’t dare to enter when he heard the commotion inside.”
Qin Zhao Yang waved his hand, “You may excuse yourself.”
The boy with the cap quickly ran off as if he’d been pardoned.
“Who is Your Excellency? And why have you acted so viciously towards this Young Lord!” Luo Ping gritted his teeth and shouted. Yang Kai’s finger had pierced through his palm just now, digging a bloody hole into it.
“You call this vicious?” Yang Kai grinned, “Compared to what you were about to do, this is nothing much.”
He then turned to Qin Zhao Yang and asked, “Who is this guy?”
After listening for so long, Yang Kai still hadn’t figured out who this young man was, but Qin Zhao Yang seemed quite afraid of him.
Qin Zhao Yang had a troubled look on his face, but before he could speak, Luo Ping shouted, “This Young Lord is a disciple of Star Soul Palace! You dare hurt me? You’re dead!”
“Star Soul Palace?” Yang Kai frowned.
Luo Ping sneered, “What’s wrong? Scared? If you’re scared then get down on your knees and kowtow to this Young Lord! Perhaps I could even spare your life!”
“Is he really a Star Soul Palace disciple?” Yang Kai looked solemnly at Qin Zhao Yang.
Qin Zhao Yang smiled bitterly, “It’s true.”
Yang Kai nodded. One could not impersonate a Star Soul Palace casually. One may not necessarily find themselves in any trouble if they impersonated the disciples of one of the three top Sects in the Southern Territory as long as they weren’t caught, but if anyone tried to impersonate a Star Soul Palace disciple, they would surely invite disaster upon themselves.
This young man in front of him had a Third-Order Dao Source Realm cultivation, which was not considered bad, and he also had a firm aura. He wasn’t too old, so he was probably from a big Sect, and since Qin Zhao Yang confirmed it, he must have verified his identity beforehand.
In other words, this Luo Ping really was a disciple of Star Soul Palace.
No wonder his tone of speech was so arrogant, not even showing any fear in front of an Emperor Realm Master like Yang Kai. It turned out it was because of his identity as a Star Soul Palace disciple.
“Kneel!” Holding his bleeding hand, Luo Ping shouted at Yang Kai once more through gritted teeth.
Yang Kai slowly raised his palm, Emperor Qi condensing on it as he said indifferently, “I’ll give you three breaths to scram from here. If you’re still here after three breaths, then I’ll help Star Soul Palace clean up its Sect by disposing of you!”
Luo Ping was stunned and he couldn’t help but be dumbfounded.
He thought that this man would surely panic when he heard of his identity, but he didn’t expect to be completely disregarded and for the other party to even boast so shamelessly! Dispose of him on behalf of Star Soul Palace? Was there something wrong with this man’s head? He was a Star Soul Palace disciple!
“Don’t be rash, Yang Kai!” Qin Zhao Yang’s face went pale with shock. If Luo Ping really died here in their Qin Family, then the Qin Family would be done for.
“Yang Kai?” Upon hearing how Qin Zhao Yang called this man though, Luo Ping’s eyes bulged. Finally, he carefully observed Yang Kai before his face began to fill with terror.
He suddenly remembered the notice he had received from the Sect some time ago, and the name and description of a certain individual that matched greatly with this man in front of him.
[Is he the same Yang Kai?] If the one who stood before him really was Yang Kai, then his identity as a Star Soul Palace disciple naturally wouldn’t be able to deter him. When he saw the power condensing even more on Yang Kai’s palm, how could Luo Ping dare to remain any longer? In a flash, he scurried outside, fleeing the Qin Family as swift as the wind, without a single word of complaint.
Qin Zhao Yang was stunned and looked in the direction where Luo Ping disappeared, confused.
What was going on?
A Star Soul Palace disciple actually fled like a panicked stray dog! Was he seeing things? Even if Yang Kai revealed his Emperor Realm cultivation, it shouldn’t have scared him like this. Regardless of anything else, Luo Ping was still a Star Soul Palace disciple, right? Qin Zhao Yang was even beginning to doubt the authenticity of Luo Ping’s identity now.
In a small alley in Maplewood City, Luo Ping stopped with a pale face. Releasing his Divine Sense and not finding Yang Kai’s aura anywhere nearby, he finally let out a gasp of relief and collapsed to the ground without any care for his image, all his arrogance and pride thrown to the wayside.
He still felt palpitations and fear even now, and he couldn’t stop his hands from shaking.
His identity as a Star Soul Palace disciple was not false, and he was even an Inner Disciple who had some status in the Sect.
For a disciple like him, he could show no regard to most Emperor Realm cultivators he passed in the Southern Territory, but that man called Yang Kai was different. He was different from all the other Emperors out there.
Luo Ping received a notice from the Sect some time ago, informing all the disciples outside to keep an eye out for the whereabouts of a certain person, and that person was Yang Kai. Luo Ping previously had no idea why the Sect would need to keep track of this person, and it wasn’t until he bumped into a Senior Brother in Spirit Lake City and probed around a little that he discovered why.
This Yang Kai was actually related to the murder of Elder Tan Jun Hao and Deacon Wu Ming. What’s more, all signs indicated that the two of them were killed at Yang Kai’s hand.
This matter was confirmed by more than twenty Emperor Realm Masters from various Sects in the Southern Territory, so there was no doubt about its authenticity.
Elder Tan was one of the only four Third-Order Emperor Realm masters in Star Soul Palace. He had profound knowledge in cultivation and was a shrewd man, yet he was actually killed by Yang Kai. When he heard this news, Luo Ping couldn’t believe it at all.
Even a Third-Order Emperor Realm Master could be killed, so in comparison, Wu Ming’s death didn’t seem so shocking.
The deaths of an Elder and a Deacon of Star Soul Palace were a big deal, and the entire Sect took it very seriously. Countless people were searching for this man called Yang Kai.
“You dare hurt me? You’re dead! Dead!” Luo Ping gritted his teeth in anger and quickly took out a communication artifact before checking his surroundings sneakily. Only then did he send his Divine Sense into the artifact and send out a message.
After receiving a response, Luo Ping grinned sinisterly.
[Reinforcements will be arriving in Maplewood City in a few days. Let’s see how you die then!]
Back at the Qin Family, Yang Kai, who had learned the truth, was silent for a long time.
After hearing Qin Zhao Yang’s explanation that that Star Soul Palace disciple called Luo Ping was someone that the Qin Family had actively invited to protect them, and that Maplewood City had become somewhat turbulent recently. The rise of Maplewood City attracted many Masters, and the major families who had occupied favourable conditions and had an advantageous position in the past could now only eke out a living in the cracks due to their lack of strength. Two great families had already even been destroyed.
It was thanks to Luo Ping’s protection that the Qin Family survived. Though Luo Ping didn’t ask for cultivation resources, he had quite an interest in women, and he could even be described as insatiable. This made it impossible for Qin Zhao Yang to satisfy him, leading to today’s events.
“Yang Kai, you should hurry and leave. Luo Ping will surely contact Star Soul Palace, so it won’t be wise for you to remain here long,” Qin Zhao Yang warned him, worried.
Yang Kai simply waved his hand though and commented lightly, “No matter. Those people from Star Soul Palace may not even come, but if they do, it will allow me to settle a grudge I have with them.”
He had killed Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming, so Star Soul Palace definitely wouldn’t let the matter rest. No matter what, they would want an explanation from Yang Kai; otherwise, it would be a challenge to the status of Star Soul Palace.
Yang Kai never thought of hiding either. If it were in the past, then Yang Kai would only be able to look up to a Great Emperor Sect, but now, he had the capital to negotiate with Star Soul Palace.
And, since the Bright Moon Great Emperor had the ability to ascend to the peak of the Star Boundary, he was surely someone who could be reasoned with. The twenty or so pawns Yang Kai had set up in Flowing Shadow City would now also play their role.
“You…” Qin Zhao Yang was at a loss. The one Yang Kai provoked was a Star Soul Palace disciple, not some run-of-the-mill disciple from a somewhat important Sect, so how could Yang Kai still be so calm and relaxed?
Yang Kai smiled and swiftly changed the subject, “Forget about me, where will the Qin Family go now?”
As soon as these words came out, Qin Zhao Yang was stunned, unable to speak for a long time. Finally, he just heaved a long sigh. Not only did the Qin Family lose Luo Ping’s protection, they even offended him. Life was likely going to be difficult for them from now on, and Qin Zhao Yang feared there was no longer any place for them in Maplewood City.
“I don’t know, but we definitely have to leave Maplewood City,” Qin Zhao Yang seemed to have aged a lot in an instant.
“Where will you go if you leave Maplewood City? The entire Southern Territory is Star Soul Palace’s domain.”
Qin Zhao Yang could not answer. Indeed, even if they left Maplewood City, they would still have to face retaliation. That was unless they left the Southern Territory and escaped Star Soul Palace’s jurisdiction, but how could it be so easy to execute such a plan?
Yang Kai said, “Why don’t I arrange a place for you to stay?”
Qin Zhao Yang looked up, “Where?”
“The Northern Territory!” Yang Kai revealed.
Qin Zhao Yang’s mouth widened, but then he smiled bitterly, “The journey is too long, and the cultivations of my Qin Family’s disciples aren’t very high. We can’t travel that far.”
“It’s not as far as you think. As long as the Patriarch Qin agrees, I can send you to the Northern Territory within ten days!”
“Ten days!” Qin Zhao Yang was shocked. His first thought was that this was impossible, but after more consideration, there was still a hint of possibility. Of course, that would require the use of things available only in the legends.
“Can we really reach the Northern Territory in just ten days?” Qin Zhao Yang asked in a trembling voice. If that truly was possible, then the Qin Family could definitely escape this disaster. The Northern Territory and the Southern Territory were worlds apart, and Star Soul Palace’s reach didn’t extend that far.
“Absolutely!” Yang Kai nodded sincerely, “If Patriarch Qin trusts me, then I can arrange it immediately. We can set off in two days.”
There was a look of struggle in Qin Zhao Yang’s eyes for a moment. He would like to believe Yang Kai, but this matter was related to the future of his entire family, so he had to be cautious.
Yang Kai smiled, “I will definitely not disappoint Patriarch Qin.”
In fact, Yang Kai had not intended to bring the Qin Family to High Heaven Palace, he had just come over to take a look at how they were doing, but since the Qin Family was in a desperate situation now, it didn’t matter for him to bring them along as well.
Whether a shepherd had to herd one sheep or a flock of them, it was still herding in the end. It didn’t make much difference to Yang Kai.
And, in this way, he could also come out with a harvest of Qin Yu! With the cultivation aptitude that Qin Yu had now, it was very likely she would reach the Emperor Realm in the future, which would also be another source of power for High Heaven Palace. This could only bring good to a Sect and no harm.
Maplewood City, Violet Source Chamber of Commerce Branch.
Maplewood City was not like the past. It had risen quickly in recent years and as one of the two major chambers of commerce in the Southern Territory, Violet Source Chamber of Commerce naturally set up a large branch here, one that had an Emperor Realm Master managing it. The constant flow of cultivators coming and going from Maplewood City and Spirit Lake City nearby brought a lot of commerce to the region, which was naturally a matter of great importance to Violet Source Chamber of Commerce.
With fifty stores of all sorts under the name of this branch, as well as a sizable auction house, Violet Source Chamber of Commerce had been making a lot of money in Maplewood City during these years.
When he walked into Violet Source Chamber of Commerce, Yang Kai looked around and found many cultivators inside, most of them discussing quietly with each other while some browsed through the goods on display here.
The hall was very big, and the construction was also impressive. The financial strength of the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce was quite clear to see from this.
At the corner, several pretty young girls who were whispering to each other immediately sent one of them over when Yang Kai walked in. This young girl stood in front of Yang Kai and bowed elegantly, “Greetings, Sir. May I know if there’s anything Sir needs?”
Yang Kai could tell at a glance that this was one of the attendants specially trained to receive customers. This was a common sight in many chambers of commerce. The young girl was not very old, only about thirty or so. She was good-looking and had a sweet smile while her voice was gentle and soothing, enough so to give any customers a pleasant impression.
Yang Kai smiled, “I have some business that I wish to discuss with your chamber of commerce.”
The pretty young girl’s eyes lit up. Attendants like her loved hearing words like these the most because every successful deal would grant them a commission. Even though the commission wasn’t great, if they managed to pull in a big deal, they wouldn’t have to worry about cultivation resources for the next few years.
She could see that Yang Kai had an extraordinary bearing, so she was even more excited. In an instant, the young girl became very enthusiastic and spoke with a charming smile, “May I know what sort of business Sir is interested in discussing? This maidservant can settle anything under ten million Source Crystals directly.”
“Low-Rank Source Crystals?” Yang Kai asked.
“Yes!” The girl nodded.
Yang Kai smiled, “Then please ask your manager to come out.”
The girl was stunned, but she quickly realized that the business this man was interested in was beyond her ability to handle. Ten million Low-Rank Source Crystals was a huge number for her, but it may not be much for some people, especially those in the Emperor Realm.
It seemed like that was the kind of business this Sir was interested in.
The girl responded seriously, “Sir, please accompany me to a private room while I facilitate your request.”
Yang Kai nodded lightly and followed the girl.
Soon, they arrived at a private room where the young girl settled Yang Kai down and served tea, “Sir, please wait for a moment. This maidservant will go ask Sir Manager to come over.”
Yang Kai remained as still as a mountain, but just as the girl was about to leave, he suddenly asked, “By the way, have you heard of a man called Kang Si Ran?”
Shopkeeper Kang was the first friend he made in Maplewood City, and it was all thanks to his lead that Yang Kai was able to obtain Gong Sun Mu’s inheritance. Only, Maplewood City was too small back then and Kang Si Ran had been transferred away by Violet Source Chamber of Commerce after he broke through to the Dao Source Realm, and Yang Kai had no idea where he had been transferred to.
It had been more than a decade since they last saw each other.
Now that Yang Kai was back here, he naturally thought about Kang Si Ran again. He had only asked this question casually, but he didn’t expect to receive a surprising response from the girl, “Sir knows Manager Kang?”
“Ah?” Yang Kai was stunned.
The girl smiled, “If Sir knows Manager Kang, then should this maidservant invite him over to discuss with you?”
Yang Kai raised a brow, “Kang Si Ran is here?”
“That’s right, Manager Kang is also in this branch.”
This was an unexpected surprise for Yang Kai. He didn’t think that he would get this answer from just a casual question and nodded, “Good, ask him to come.”
“Yes!” The girl answered, bowed, and withdrew, closing the door behind her.
Inside the private room, Yang Kai sipped on his tea and waited quietly.
A short while later, a knock came from the door, to which Yang Kai smiled and called out, “Please come in!”
The door was pushed open, and Kang Si Ran’s figure came into Yang Kai’s view. Four eyes meeting, Kang Si Ran was amazed and exclaimed, “Brother… Brother Yang!”
“We meet again, Brother Kang!” Yang Kai cupped his fists with a smile.
Kang Si Ran was both surprised and delighted, shutting the door behind him before saying, “I was wondering which old acquaintance had come to see me, but it turns out to be Brother Yang! It must have been more than ten years since we last met, hasn’t it?”
“Indeed. Brother Kang, come sit down so we can talk.”
Kang Si Ran was quite excited to see Yang Kai again after so long; after all, it was all thanks to the Dao Source Pill Yang Kai gave him that he was able to reach the Dao Source Realm. If not for that favour, Kang Si Ran would still be stuck at the peak of the Origin King Realm, unable to advance, missing out on all the strength and status he held today.
Over the past ten years or so, Kang Si Ran’s cultivation had reached the Second-Order Dao Source Realm, so it seemed like he had been working hard this past decade and had been properly cultivating.
After sitting down, Kang Si Ran couldn’t help but sigh. Thinking that back in the day, he and Yang Kai were both mere Origin Kings, and they had also gone through fire and water together. It almost felt like a lifetime ago when he last saw him.
“Brother Kang, weren’t you transferred away? How did you end up back in Maplewood City?” Yang Kai asked curiously.
Kang Si Ran laughed, “Maplewood City is different now, and the headquarters naturally pays more attention to this place as well. Though this Kang’s cultivation is not considered high, I had still lived here for half my life and am quite familiar with the situation here in Maplewood City, so I was sent back here.”
Maplewood City was a good place now, and there were many people from the headquarters hoping to come to this place. If it weren’t for Kang Si Ran’s natural advantages, he wouldn’t have even been considered for his current position with his low cultivation.
But even so, Kang Si Ran was likely going to be transferred again soon, because the branch had already established a firm foothold here, and they were gradually growing familiar with Maplewood City. They didn’t need his guidance that much anymore, so when the time came, someone with higher cultivation and stronger connections would come to take his place.
“So, that’s how it is… This is good news.” Yang Kai nodded, unaware of the intricacies inside the chamber of commerce.
Kang Si Ran just smiled and did not try to explain; after all, the goings-on inside the chamber of commerce were a ‘family matter’. Even though he and Yang Kai had a good relationship, there was no need to mention such things.
*Du du du…*
There was a sudden knock at the door.
As soon as the knocking stopped, the door was opened before Yang Kai and Kang Si Ran could even respond. Following that, a well-dressed young man walked in with a smile.
Upon seeing this man, Kang Si Ran’s face sank instantly and he frowned, “Gu Hong, what are you doing? Can’t you see that I’m talking business with a customer?”
This Gu Hong was too impudent, entering the private room without even receiving permission. It was fortunate that Yang Kai was the one sitting here and not anyone else, otherwise, Kang Si Ran wouldn’t know how to explain the situation to them. In the worst-case scenario, this may even make customers think that Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to confidentiality wasn’t sincere, resulting in a failed business deal.
Faced with Kang Si Ran’s questioning, Gu Hong completely ignored him and instead smiled at Yang Kai, “Welcome, this one is Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s Branch Manager Gu Hong. May I know what to call you, friend?”
Yang Kai glanced at Kang Si Ran, then at Gu Hong, a light flickering in his eyes as he smirked, but did not speak.
Not receiving a response, Gu Hong’s expression turned a little awkward, but he still persisted, “Please forgive this humble one for interrupting, but Manager Kang’s abilities are somewhat… lacking, so this Gu was worried that business would have been lost if entrusted to his hands. That is why this Gu came uninvited. Please forgive my forwardness.”
Yang Kai narrowed his eyes, “Manager Kang isn’t competent? Why do you say that?”
Gu Hong smiled, “He has managed to settle only three deals in the last year, what would this be if not incompetence?”
Kang Si Ran’s face turned dark as he said coldly, “If no one tried to interfere, then this Kang would have accomplished more deals.”
Gu Hong responded, “Manager Kang need not be angry. This Gu interfered in your business for your own good. You are going to be transferred in a few days, so settling business will be troublesome when the time comes. As such, why not hand things over for this Gu to manage now?”
Kang Si Ran grunted, “Is this Kang supposed to thank you?”
Gu Hong smiled, “We are all members from the same chamber of commerce, there’s no need for thanks.” Then, he turned back to Yang Kai, “This friend, if you truly wish to do business, this Gu is willing to be of assistance. I will be open and tell you now that Manager Kang will indeed be transferred from here soon, so if you have any business, why not discuss it with this Gu instead? This Gu guarantees your satisfaction.”
Yang Kai turned to look at Kang Si Ran, “You’re being transferred again?”
Kang Si Ran let out a sigh.
It was by his own will to be transferred out of Maplewood City back then because the city was too small and poor. There was no future for him staying here at the time, but things were different now. Maplewood City was just like a fragrant meat bun that everyone wanted a bite of, so how could he be willing to transfer? But he was powerless in this matter.
Yang Kai nodded in understanding before saying, “This Yang appreciates Manager Gu’s kindness, but I am old acquaintances with Manager Kang, and we share a life-and-death friendship. That is why I wish to discuss this deal with Manager Kang.”
“Is that so…” Gu Hong was stunned before quickly smiling, “In that case, this Gu will not stay and be a pest. Please excuse me!”
Yang Kai’s words told him that he most likely wouldn’t be able to snatch this deal, so he did not waste any more time and quickly withdrew.
Soon, the only ones left in the room were Yang Kai and Kang Si Ran.
Yang Kai asked, “Brother Kang, do you not wish to leave Maplewood City?”
Kang Si Ran nodded, “The Southern Territory may have a few branches comparable to the one in Maplewood City, but I won’t be able to enter them. If I get transferred away this time, then coming back will be difficult.”
“I understand,” Yang Kai nodded.
Kang Si Ran smiled, “If it’s fate, let it be. Let’s not talk about me anymore. What sort of deal are you here to make this time around, Brother Yang?”
Yang Kai looked serious, “I want to purchase Space Spirit Crystals and Space Spirit Jade.”
Kang Si Ran stroked the beard on his chin as he mused, “These two are the main materials used to produce Space Rings. They aren’t hard to find, and we have some in stock here in the branch. How much does Brother Yang need?”
“How much does your branch have?” Yang Kai asked.
Kang Si Ran answered, “Let me see.”
While saying that, he took out a jade slip to check. After a while, he looked up and told him, “Around thirty million Mid-Rank Source Crystals worth, but since it is Brother Yang, I can offer you a ten percent discount on however much you wish to purchase. Unfortunately, that is my limit.”
“Good, I’ll want it all.”
“All… All of it?” Kang Si Ran was shocked. That was thirty million Mid-Rank Source Crystals worth, not thirty million Low-Rank Source Crystals. Even if it was exchanged for High-Rank Source Crystals, it would still be worth 300,000 pieces.
“All of it!” Yang Kai nodded sincerely.
Kang Si Ran immediately realized that this may be the biggest deal he had ever made. With this, even if he was transferred, he wouldn’t be transferred to the middle of nowhere.
Before his pleasant surprise could fade though, Yang Kai continued, “In addition, I also wish to entrust Brother Kang to continue acquiring Space Spirit Crystals and Space Spirit Jade for me. I’ll take as much as you can gather.”
Kang Si Ran drew a breath of cold air.
Space Spirit Crystal and Space Spirit Jade were the basic materials used to refine Space Rings, but they were not considered very valuable items in the Star Boundary. Many cultivators kept a dozen or more Space Rings on them at all times, but this couldn’t be helped as it was far easier to toss over a Space Ring directly during a trade.
As such, demand for these two materials wasn’t too big or too small. Since Yang Kai decided to take all the thirty million Mid-Rank Source Crystals worth of their stock in one breath, and even wanted to continue gathering more, just how many Space Rings was he intending to refine?
Kang Si Ran calmed himself down before answering, “This branch only has thirty million Mid-Rank Source Crystals worth, but we should have more in stock at headquarters. We can also send more over from the other branches. Brother Yang, are you sure you want all of them? It’s not going to be a small amount of money.”
If each branch had thirty million Mid-Rank Source Crystals worth of materials, then ten branches would be three hundred million, and a hundred would become three billion. Violet Source Chamber of Commerce has hundreds of branches in the Southern Territory, so if he really intended to take everything, then it would definitely cost upwards of tens of millions of High-Rank Source Crystals.
Tens of millions of High-Rank Source Crystals! This was definitely going to be a gigantic deal.
If this deal was successful, then this merit alone would be enough for Kang Si Ran to be promoted to a Branch President! Only his cultivation was a little poor and was not enough to convince the public. After all, the chamber of commerce had its rules. Only Emperor Realm Masters could assume the role of Branch President.
If someone else had come to Kang Si Ran with a deal like this, then he wouldn’t have tried to persuade them against it and would just agree to it, but the one bringing in this business was Yang Kai, so how could Kang Si Ran not be concerned for his sake?
Worried that Yang Kai didn’t know the weight of the numbers, Kang Si Ran even made a point to highlight the figures for him.
“I’m sure,” Yang Kai smiled, “Unless Brother Kang is unable to facilitate such a deal?”
Kang Si Ran was frank, “For a deal of this size, a small Manager like me really can’t make the final decision.”
Yang Kai was just casually making a joke, but he didn’t expect it to be true and he couldn’t help but be surprised.
Kang Si Ran said, “Brother Yang, if you’re really interested in this deal, then this Kang will go and ask the President to come and talk to you personally.”
Yang Kai responded, “Good!”
“Please wait a moment,” After saying that, Kang Si Ran immediately headed out of the room.
Outside the door, Gu Hong smiled when he saw Kang Si Ran walk out, “Manager Kang, how is the discussion going? Do you need this Gu’s help?”
Kang Si Ran grunted, “I won’t trouble you, Manager Gu.”
Gu Hong sneered lightly and flicked his sleeve, “Can’t appreciate kindness.” He had to maintain the image of the chamber of commerce in front of Yang Kai and naturally couldn’t be impolite, but there was no need for him to be patient with Kang Si Ran.
Seeing Kang Si Ran head straight upstairs though, Gu Hong frowned.
It was almost as if Kang Si Ran was intending to go see the Branch President. Could it be that the business was big enough that even a Manager was unable to make the call? Gu Hong suddenly panicked. If that were the case, then Kang Si Ran would receive a huge merit from this transaction, and might even be able to secure his position in the branch.
Worry began to show on Gu Hong’s face.
A short time from now, someone with a strong background would be transferred from the headquarters in order to take on the Manager position, but the number of Managers in each branch was set, so if someone came down from above, then one of the current Managers here would have to give up their position.
Originally, according to performance and cultivation, the person who would have to give up his position was definitely Kang Si Ran, but if he managed to secure his position with a big deal, it may become Gu Hong’s turn to be transferred.
Regardless of who it was, someone had to go.
Maplewood City was a good place with many cultivators and plenty of business opportunities, so how could Gu Hong bear to leave? A year of hard work here was worth two or three years of hard work in other branches, which was why he was constantly making things hard for Kang Si Ran and snatching away his business. Everything was in order to cut off all hope of Kang Si Ran staying here and forcing him to be transferred away.
But now, he could possibly lose everything! This made Gu Hong both shocked and angry.
While his thoughts were in turmoil, he saw the President walking down with Kang Si Ran as he had expected. Gu Hong’s face sank as he realized this business was truly large enough to move even the President himself. Just how big a deal could this be?
Gu Hong felt disgruntled as he wondered how Kang Si Ran could have such good luck.
In front of the private room, Kang Si Ran knocked gently on the door and only opened it after receiving Yang Kai’s response. He then stood aside and said respectfully, “President, please!”
A short, elderly man stepped in and looked at Yang Kai with a sharp gaze.
Yang Kai raised his brows and got up, cupping his fists, “Greetings, President Luo!”
The Branch President in charge here in Maplewood City actually turned out to be Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President Lou Chi! It could be seen from this how important the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce regarded Maplewood City.
Yang Kai had seen this man before in his early years, and naturally wouldn’t have forgotten him so quickly.
“You know this Old Master?” Lou Chi was a bit surprised. Even though he was the Vice President of Violet Source Chamber of Commerce, and also the Branch President of Maplewood City, he usually kept to himself, so barely anyone saw him nowadays. As such, he was naturally surprised that Yang Kai was able to recognize him at first glance. But upon closer inspection, Yang Kai seemed vaguely familiar, as if he’d met him somewhere before.
Lou Chi was even more surprised when he released his Divine Sense as he discovered that the cultivation of this young man in front of him was actually no worse than his. They were both First-Order Emperors.
When he heard Kang Si Ran’s report that a friend of his had come to discuss a large deal, Lou Chi didn’t think much about it; after all, what sort of friend could a man with Kang Si Ran’s cultivation have?
But now he realized that he was wrong. This young man was an Emperor Realm Master!
Immediately putting away his contempt, Luo Chi smiled, “This Old Master seems to have met this little friend somewhere!”
Yang Kai smiled back, “This Junior was there when Star Soul Palace’s Five Coloured Treasure Pagoda was opened in Maplewood City. I was also there when the Four Seasons Realm opened.”
Lou Chi thought for a moment before his eyes lit flashed, “You are…”
“Yang Kai!”
Lou Chi’s face sank as he shouted, “Your courage isn’t small! How dare you show yourself so openly!”
His attitude changed so quickly that Kang Si Ran was taken aback. He had no idea what Yang Kai had done to offend Lou Chi.
Yang Kai was also stunned, but quickly, he understood Luo Chi’s reaction. It must have something to do with Star Soul Palace. There were certain things that Kang Si Ran may not be able to come across, but Lou Chi certainly wasn’t uninformed.
Smiling, Yang Kai commented, “If my conscience is clear, why wouldn’t I dare to show myself?”
Lou Chi eyed him, “Indeed, you have the courage, but I’m not sure how your fate will be.”
Yang Kai said, “President Luo, are you interested in discussing business, or are we going to leave things at this? If you’re not interested, I can look for Seven Glories Chamber of Commerce. I assume that they would be very interested in this deal.”
“Of course we can discuss business! Why wouldn’t we be able to?” Lou Chi grunted. Yang Kai had deliberately used the old rival of Violet Source Chamber of Commerce to provoke him. It was clearly bait, but business was still business, and Lou Chi wouldn’t let any opportunity slip past him.
With a gesture from Yang Kai, Lou Chi sat down, “Little friend, please sit as well!”
Yang Kai glanced at Kang Si Ran who was standing beside Lou Chi.
Lou Chi instantly saw this and motioned, “Manager Kang, please sit as well.”
At that same time, he was thinking to himself, [Does this Yang Kai think so highly of Kang Si Ran? The two of them seem to share a good relationship.]
Kang Si Ran was a little intimidated, but since Lou Chi had spoken, he could only sit with them, looking slightly cautious.
Lou Chi cut straight to the point, “I heard Manager Kang say that the business that this little friend wants to talk about is worth tens of millions of High-Rank Source Crystals?”
“Exactly so! I just don’t know if President Luo can swallow such a meal or not,” Yang Kai nodded.
Lou Chi laughed, “There is no business that my Violet Source Chamber of Commerce can’t handle! But may I ask what little friend needs so many Space Spirit Crystals and Space Spirit Jade for?”
Yang Kai smiled, “That is not President Luo’s concern, is it?”
Lou Chi was stunned, but then he smiled, “It was this Old Master who asked too much.” After a brief silence, he went on, “The amount of goods needed by little friend is too high. It is not that this Old Master doesn’t trust little friend, but shouldn’t little friend also show some sincerity?”
As soon as he said that, Yang Kai tossed a Space Ring over to him, “Here is the deposit. President Luo, please see if it’s to your satisfaction.”
Lou Chi took it and swept the contents with his Divine Sense. Immediately, he could see High-Rank Source Crystals piled up like a mountain, at least ten million pieces.
He instantly became serious as he realized that Yang Kai really did have the capital for this transaction and nodded, “Good, little friend is a man of integrity, so this Old Master will be direct as well. Within two months, this Old Master can transfer forty million High-Rank Source Crystals worth of materials for you. At that time, this Old Master also hopes that little friend can bring enough Source Crystals to my chamber of commerce for the exchange.”
“Of course!” Yang Kai nodded, “But I have one condition.”
Lou Chi urged, “Please!”
Yang Kai looked at Kang Si Ran, “I will only hand this matter over to Manager Kang. No one else.”
Lou Chi frowned, “Why is that so? Is it because little friend does not trust my Violet Source Chamber of Commerce?”
Yang Kai shook his head, “How could I not trust your noble chamber’s name? It’s just that I have a close relationship with Manager Kang, so I feel more comfortable dealing with him.”
Lou Chi couldn’t help but look a little troubled. The reason for that was because Kang Si Ran was definitely going to be transferred in two months. When that time came, how was he going to deal with Yang Kai if he wasn’t even in Maplewood City? But this business could bring huge profits to the chamber of commerce, so Lou Chi couldn’t help but consider it carefully.
Realizing the situation, Luo Chi looked up and asked, “Does little friend perhaps intend to help Manager Kang by doing this?”
He could vaguely guess that Yang Kai intended to keep Kang Si Ran in the affluent Maplewood City, so he shook his head, “Little friend’s proposal is meaningless. Even though little friend may help Manager Kang stay in Maplewood City for two more months, he will still have to be transferred after the materials are delivered.”
Yang Kai frowned, “President Luo really can’t do anything about it?”
Lou Chi explained, “This was a decision made by the headquarters. This Old Master is powerless to interfere.”
Kang Si Ran was already extremely grateful just for this gesture and was just about to speak when Yang Kai stopped him with a raised hand, “What if I say that there is more business I can do with Manager Kang? A long term cooperation!”
Luo Chi narrowed his eyes, “That will depend on what kind of business it is.”
Yang Kai casually brushed his hand on the table and a bright, round, and full longan-sized Monster Beast Core immediately appeared, one that pulsed with rich Monster Qi.
“Twelfth-Order Monster Core!” Lou Chi was stunned. With a burning gaze, he took the Monster Core placed on the table and carefully studied it, nodding repeatedly, “It’s truly a Twelfth-Order Monster Core.”
Twelfth-Order Monster Cores! They were cores only produced in the bodies of Twelfth-Order Monster Beasts, and Twelfth-Order Monster Beasts were equivalent to Emperor Realm existences.
Even he, Lou Chi, was merely a First-Order Emperor Realm cultivator. If he really encountered a Twelfth-Order Monster Beast, then there was no saying who may win in that fight. If things went wrong, he may even die under the bloody claws of the Monster Beast.
It can be said that Twelfth-Order Monster Cores were rare materials throughout the Star Boundary. Weak cultivators couldn’t get them, and even if a Master were to obtain one, they wouldn’t sell it easily; after all, Monster Beast Cores have a wide range of uses, and its use in Alchemy alone was enough to get countless people fighting for them.
“But it’s a pity…” Lou Chi sighed.
Kang Si Ran asked, “What’s a pity?”
He was also shocked. Meeting Yang Kai again, he found that he suddenly didn’t recognize him that well anymore. Yang Kai came in, bringing such a large business deal, and now he even took out a Twelfth-Order Monster Core so casually. Fortunately, Yang Kai was still his same old self personality-wise.
Kang Si Ran still remembered the time when Yang Kai had just arrived in Maplewood City. Not to say that he was destitute, but poor was not an inaccurate description. How did he become so rich all of a sudden? Compared to Yang Kai, Kang Si Ran felt like he had simply been living the past decade in vain.
“Unfortunately, this is only the Monster Core of a Twelfth-Order Low-Rank Monster Beast, equivalent to a First-Order Emperor.” Lou Chi shook his head while stroking his beard.
The same Twelfth-Order Monster Core could have a world of difference in value and price depending on the rank of beast it came from. Just as the Emperor Realm has three Minor Realms, Monster Beast Cores had three different ranks in a single order, their value increasing dramatically with each rise in rank.
“So, how much is a Monster Core like this worth?” Yang Kai asked.
Lou Chi declared openly, “If sold to our chamber of commerce, the reserve price is two million High-Rank Source Crystals!”
“A fair price!” Yang Kai nodded lightly. For a Twelfth-Order Low-Rank Monster Core, this price really was about right.
“Of course, if you take it to our auction house, it’s possible to get as much as three million High-Rank Source Crystals.” Lou Chi smiled, “The business that little friend talked about before couldn’t be referring to this, right?”
This was indeed good business. Monster Cores of Twelfth-Order Monster Beasts were always in short supply, but a Low-Rank Monster Core wasn’t anything to marvel about. They may not be common, but they could still be encountered occasionally at auction houses.
“Then, what about this?” Yang Kai tossed something over.
Lou Chi caught it by instinct and studied it, his eyes turning wide at once, “This… This is…”
“Twelfth-Order High-Rank?” Kang Si Ran was also shocked.
If a Low-Rank Monster Core wasn’t here as a comparison, Kang Si Ran may not have the eyes to tell the difference, but when this Monster Core was compared with the previous one, just the aura it emitted alone was several times stronger than the previous.
This was definitely a Twelfth-Order High-Rank Monster Core!
That was equivalent to a core only producible by a Master in the Third-Order Emperor Realm.
“Little friend, where did you get this?” Lou Chi was completely roused and he stood up abruptly.
Yang Kai looked at him with a meaningful smile on his face.
The corners of Lou Chi’s mouth twitched awkwardly, “This Old Master has spoken out of turn.”
It was not his place to pry, and they also had clear rules in the chamber of commerce. If he were to break any of the rules, then he would be punished and may even be expelled even if he was a Vice President. Luo Chi was merely too shocked as he had never in his life had the opportunity to encounter a Twelfth-Order High-Rank Monster Core before.
His hand was clutching hard on that Monster Core at that moment, unwilling to let go.
“How much is this Monster Core worth?” Yang Kai asked.
“Ten million!” Lou Chi quickly answered, “At least ten million that is. If you put it up for auction, it could possibly fetch fifteen million!”
Yang Kai raised a brow. That was because the price difference between the High-Rank and Low-Rank Twelfth-Order Monster Cores was really quite large.
“So, what do you think about this business?” Yang Kai asked with a grin.
“A big deal indeed!” Lou Chi nodded earnestly. Both of the deals Yang Kai came here for totalled over ten million High-Rank Source Crystals in worth, which was enough for him to meet him personally. This was not a deal that he could casually come across. With these two deals under his name, Kang Si Ran’s reputation would definitely rise, leaving the rest of the Managers in this branch far behind him.
“But… How could this kind of business be a long-term collaboration?” Lou Chi frowned.
He would like to be able to work with Yang Kai for an extended period of time, but Twelfth-Order Monster Cores weren’t easy to obtain. Luo Chi had no idea where Yang Kai was able to get these two Monster Cores, but he may not be so lucky next time.
“From now on, I will trade two Twelfth-Order Monster Cores with Brother Kang each year with no limits on the grade, until Brother Kang leaves Maplewood City.”
Lou Chi smiled bitterly, “In the end, little friend still wants to keep Manager Kang in Maplewood City. It’s not that this Old Master is unwilling to help, and not that this Old Master doesn’t trust little friend either, but these are Twelfth-Order Monster Cores, how will little friend…”
Speaking up to this point, Lou Chi’s eyes suddenly went wide as he stared forward dumbfoundedly at the Monster Cores held between Yang Kai’s right-hand fingers. Each one of them, regardless of their size, colour, or aura, were exactly the same as the one that he took out in the beginning.
Then, when he looked at his left hand and saw a similar scene.
*Gudong…*
Even Lou Chi, who was used to the strong winds and big waves, couldn’t help but gulp at this moment.
He was about to take a closer look when Yang Kai flipped both his hands over, and the Monster Cores suddenly disappeared again.
“Are they all Twelfth-Order?” Lou Chi asked, head buzzing.
Yang Kai smiled, “Word of mouth is just a rumour, but seeing is believing. Hasn’t President Luo seen it himself?”
Lou Chi grew excited as he asked, “Little friend, is it possible for you to sell all the Monster Cores…”
“Absolutely not!” Yang Kai refused. Even though he had more Monster Cores than he could ever possibly use, he wouldn’t just sell them off all at once.
Lou Chi felt a burst of bitterness, but the Monster Cores belonged to someone else after all, and it was up to them whether they were willing to sell or not. He couldn’t just go up and snatch them from him.
After a long sigh, Lou Chi tried to make one last effort, “Little friend, if you can sell all of your Monster Cores to my chamber of commerce, then this Old Master will offer you a very good price.”
“Not selling!” Yang Kai waved his hand repeatedly.
Lou Chi was dismayed, but he suddenly collected himself, “Very well. Little friend does have the capital to cooperate in a long term exchange with my chamber of commerce.” From the Monster Cores that he had seen alone, there were eight pieces. Which was to say that this deal could last for at least four years.
“I will report this matter to the headquarters. As for what decisions they make, this Old Master is powerless to interfere.”
Yang Kai smiled, “President Luo is too modest. You are at least a Vice President and have some say in internal matters. What do you mean you can’t interfere? How about this, if I can collaborate long term with Brother Kang, then I can sell you two Twelfth-Order Monster Cores every half year. How does that sound?”
“Half a year, two pieces!” Lou Chi was stunned before his eyes narrowed and a big smile appeared on his face, “Good, please rest assured, little friend, this Old Master will make every effort to negotiate a favourable outcome regarding this matter.”
Yang Kai cupped his fists, “Then I shall trouble President Luo.”
“Happy to oblige. Please, continue your talk. This Old Master will go and settle the Space Spirit Crystals and Space Spirit Jade for little friend so as not to delay your business.” After saying that, he stood up and put the Twelfth-Order Monster Core he was holding into Kang Si Ran’s hand, transmitting a few words to him using his Divine Sense before leaving the room.
The doors were shut again, and holding the two Monster Cores, Kang Si Ran had a grateful expression on his face, “Brother Yang, thanks are not enough for this kindness. If there is anything this Kang can help you with in the future, please just say the word.”
Yang Kai waved his hand, “Don’t worry about it, Brother Kang. I am not doing this only for you, but also myself.”
Naturally, Kang Si Ran did not believe him and thought he was just being modest.
Yang Kai said, “I’ve recently founded a Sect, and it is still in its infancy, but I will have a high demand for various materials and resources in the future when it grows, so Violet Source Chamber of Commerce is going to be a very important partner for us. With Brother Kang here, I will definitely not suffer any losses when dealing with the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce.”
Kang Si Ran was astonished, “Brother Yang, you actually founded a Sect?”
This really astonished him. Even though Yang Kai was an Emperor Realm Master, not every Emperor had the capabilities to found a Sect. Firstly, they had to pick out a good spot, and they also needed a wide range of contacts and sufficient strength. They also had to recruit disciples and whatnot. It was a lot of difficult work.
“It’s nothing big!” Yang Kai smiled.
Kang Si Ran told him earnestly, “Rest assured, Brother Yang, if your noble Sect has any business you wish to conduct with the chamber of commerce in the future, then this Kang will certainly do his best for your sake.”
Yang Kai smiled, “I can rest assured with Brother Kang’s help. If at any time you find yourself unhappy with your current position, Brother Kang is always welcome in my Sect.”
Kang Si Ran grinned, “If your noble Sect was not going to collaborate with the chamber of commerce in the future, then I would go over right now!”
But if Yang Kai’s Sect was going to establish a channel of cooperation with Violet Source Chamber of Commerce in the future, it would naturally be better for Yang Kai if Kang Si Ran stayed where he was.
After chatting for a while, Kang Si Ran said, “Before the President left just now, he told me that if Brother Yang is willing to sell these two Monster Cores now, we will offer a price of thirteen million Source Crystals for them.”
Yang Kai told him, “Naturally, I brought these Monster Cores out to sell. Could there be any other way to sell them?”
Kang Si Ran answered, “Since this is our first collaboration, the President told me that he will make things simple for you. You can either sell them directly to us, or you can have us auction them for you, but you won’t have that option again in the future.”
Yang Kai responded without hesitation, “Then I’ll just sell it to you directly.”
Even though he may lose a bit this way compared to them being auctioned off, he would still have to shell out some amount in fees if he entrusts the matter to the chamber of commerce. In that case, the amount he gained from selling the Monster Cores wouldn’t be that different.
Since he wanted to help Kang Si Ran, Yang Kai naturally wouldn’t be greedy for those small benefits.
“Good!” Kang Si Ran nodded, “It just so happens that there’s an auction happening tomorrow night. These two Monster Cores should fetch a good price. As for the Source Crystals for the sale, Brother Yang…”
Yang Kai told him, “Just count it towards the purchase of the Space Spirit Crystal and Space Spirit Jade.”
“Very well!” Kang Si Ran nodded. The way Yang Kai agreed so quickly to the matter made him realize that Yang Kai’s wealth may be even more terrifying than he originally thought. If that wasn’t the case, he wouldn’t be so casual when handling tens of millions of High-Rank Source Crystals.
“By the way, Brother Kang. There’s something I wish to ask.”
Kang Si Ran answered, “Please, Brother Yang!”
“Will there be any Artifact Armors for sale in tomorrow’s auction?”
“Will an Emperor Grade Mid-Rank Artifact Armor satisfy Brother Yang’s needs?” Kang Si Ran smiled.
“Emperor Grade Mid-Rank!” Yang Kai’s expression lifted, “There’s an Emperor Grade Mid-Rank Artifact Armor for sale in the auction?”
Kang Si Ran nodded, “That’s right. The finale of the auction tomorrow is going to be this Emperor Grade Mid-Rank Artifact Armor!”
“Truly!” Yang Kai was pleasantly surprised. This time, he had primarily come to Violet Source Chamber of Commerce in order to buy Space Spirit Crystals and Space Spirit Jade, so that he could make preparations for arranging Space Arrays in the future, but his second reason was to find an appropriate Artifact Armor.
Yang Kai’s requirements were not that high, but he was still an Emperor after all. He was only thinking of looking for an Emperor Grade Artifact Armor, but he didn’t think an Emperor Grade Mid-Rank one would be available, which was much better than what he expected.
He didn’t want to end up with shredded clothes, or even winding up naked when he used his Dragon Transformation Secret Technique in the future.
“Is a private transaction possible?” Yang Kai asked.
Most of the items sold in an auction were brought in for sale by cultivators, but many were also found by the auction house itself. No matter which type it was, with the current long term cooperation that Yang Kai established with Violet Source Chamber of Commerce, he should be eligible to make a private transaction.
Kang Si Ran answered with regret, “Not this time, I’m afraid. It may be fine if it were any other item in the auction, but this Emperor Grade Mid-Rank Artifact Armor is the highlight of the auction, and it was advertised three months ago. There is no way President Luo would agree to sell it to you privately.”
“Is that so…” Yang Kai wasn’t too disappointed. Since it was already announced to be the finale of the auction, they definitely couldn’t sell it off privately, the reason being that it would be a huge blow to Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s credibility, “No matter, I will just bid for it when the time comes.”
Kang Si Ran told him, “Please wait here for a moment, Brother Yang. I’ll go and prepare an invitation for you!”
With that said, he headed outside.
After a short wait, Kang Si Ran returned with a gold-stamped invitation, handing it to Yang Kai, “The auction will start at seven tomorrow evening. You should come early, Brother Yang. You may be able to find something you like at the auction.”
“Good,” Yang Kai accepted the invitation and stuffed it into his Space Ring.
An incense stick of time later, Yang Kai stepped out from the private room, leaving the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce branch.
Only after taking a casual stroll around Maplewood City, purchasing some supplies, and spending away Source Crystals like water, did Yang Kai return to the Qin Family.
The Qin Family was currently extremely busy as everyone was packing up their things. Even though they were a small family, they had lived and thrived in these lands for a few thousand years already. The Qin Family members were a little reluctant to leave this place so suddenly.
But under Qin Zhao Yang’s orders, they could only obey despite their reluctance, bringing away whatever they could.
Yang Kai went around the Qin Family, but he didn’t see Qin Zhao Yang at all.
On the other hand, Qin Yu had already exited her retreat, and when she saw Yang Kai, she walked over to him with a beaming smile, “Big Brother Yang!”
Yang Kai smiled and nodded, “It’s been a few years since we last saw each other. Your cultivation has improved a lot.”
He had discovered last time that Qin Yu was already a Second-Order Dao Source Realm. Her cultivation speed was extremely fast. It may have something to do with her World Tribulation Body. For a cultivator with this sort of aptitude, she would definitely be able to grow strong as long as she was given enough time and resources.
“It’s all thanks to Big Brother Yang.” With her hands clasped together, Qin Yu stood in front of Yang Kai, speaking gratefully, “Without Big Brother Yang, I would have died at eighteen. Big Brother Yang is my life’s saviour.”
“This is just your destiny. There’s no need to thank me.” Yang Kai smiled, “Where’s your grandfather?”
Qin Yu brushed her hair behind her ear as she answered, “Since we’re leaving soon, Grandpa is thinking of selling the deed for the Qin Family Residence. He should be on his way to the City Lord’s Mansion.” After a pause, she asked, “Big Brother Yang, are we really going to the Northern Territory?”
“That’s right.”
“I heard it’s perpetually cold in the Northern Territory, and that wind and snow cover the sky every day.”
Yang Kai smiled, “The rumours are greatly exaggerated. Though there are indeed places in the Northern Territory that are covered in snow and ice year-round, there are still many places that are beautiful and refreshing like a spring day. The place I will be bringing you all to is the latter kind. Once you’re there, you and the Qin Family will be able to develop better.”
Qin Yu’s beautiful eyes lit up and she couldn’t help but reveal a look of anticipation.
“You should go back to what you were doing. I’m going to rest for a while.” After saying that, Yang Kai headed towards the back hall.
Looking at his back, Qin Yu’s mouth opened, but ultimately, she just sighed.
Time passed quickly, and it wasn’t until dusk the next day that Yang Kai left his room.
Qin Yu was walking back and forth in front of his door, seeming preoccupied with something, but when she heard the noise, she looked over. Seeing Yang Kai, she quickly said, “Big Brother Yang, everyone is prepared!”
Qin Zhao Yang also came over from the distance and said solemnly, “Brother Yang, the Qin Family is ready. When are we leaving?”
Yang Kai said, “Leave at midnight and wait five hundred kilometres southeast of the city for another group of people who will be joining us!”
“Who?” Qin Zhao Yang was stunned.
“The Zhang Family,” Yang Kai replied.
Qin Zhao Yang nodded, “So, it is them.”
The Zhang Family seemed to have a good relationship with Yang Kai, a fact that Qin Zhao Yang knew about. When Yang Kai left back then, the Qin Family also took care of the Zhang Family for a time. Unfortunately, as time went on, the Qin Family found itself unable to even take care of themselves, so they naturally lost the ability to take care of others. Now, when he heard that the Zhang Family was leaving with them, Qin Zhao Yang couldn’t help but feel like they were brothers in adversity.
“Big Brother Yang, where are you going?” Qin Yu suddenly asked.
“To Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s auction. There’s something that I wish to buy,” Yang Kai responded before he kicked the ground and flew off, only to suddenly reappear several tens of meters away as he turned back to Qin Yu, “Do you want to come along?”
Qin Yu’s look of anticipation turned into one of joy as her tender body flickered and she quickly caught up with him.
“Let’s go!” Yang Kai called out, using his Emperor Qi to wrap up Qin Yu before disappearing in a stream of light above the Qin Family.
The entrance to Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s auction house was decorated with colourful lanterns and a big red carpet was rolled out on the ground as a bustling crowd gathered around.
Kang Si Ran and Gu Hong, the two Managers, were standing on either side of the entrance, welcoming guests with smiles on their faces, cupping their fists and exchanging pleasantries with them.
“Sect Master Le, I trust you’ve been well since we last met!”
An elderly man proudly walked over, and Gu Hong immediately went up to greet him.
Le Dong Zheng smiled and returned the greeting, “Manager Gu is too courteous. I heard many good things will be showing up in this auction, so I came to join in on the fun.”
Gu Hong said, “Sect Master Le jests. If you really decided to join in on the fun, then I’m afraid no one else will be able to buy anything.”
Le Dong Zheng chuckled before nodding, “This Old Master won’t hold you up, I’ll make myself comfortable.”
“Please forgive me for the lack of hospitality, Sect Master Le.” Gu Hong smiled and made a gesture with his hand. Immediately, a beautiful maidservant came over and led Le Dong Zheng towards the auction hall.
Whenever those with status and position arrived, there would be maidservants to lead the way for them, to show that they were different from the common folk.
“Brother Yang,” Kang Si Ran on the other side also cupped his fists to Yang Kai. Looking over, he glanced at Qin Yu and smiled, “Young Lady Qin is also here!”
Qin Yu naturally recognized him; after all, Kang Si Ran had been based in Maplewood City for half his lifetime.
Qin Yu smiled back, “Manager Kang!”
“No need to bother with me. I can just go in by myself.”
As soon as he finished that, Yang Kai suddenly felt a hateful gaze ahead of him. Looking over, Yang Kai saw that Le Dong Zheng was currently glaring coldly at him, his eyes extremely dark, as if Yang Kai had killed his father and taken his wife.
Yang Kai smiled back happily, not giving it a second thought.
Le Dong Zheng coldly snorted and turned away.
Even though their encounter was short, Kang Si Ran and Gu Hong saw the scene bright and clear. Eyes flickering, no one knew what thoughts came to Gu Hong’s mind, but he snickered quietly to himself.
Kang Si Ran on the other hand was worried and he quietly whispered, “Brother Yang, do you have some sort of grudge with Sect Master Le?”
“It’s just a little something,” Yang Kai touched his nose. He had killed three of his Third-Order Dao Source Realm Disciples, so this was by no means just a small grudge.
Kang Si Ran urged, “Then you should watch out around him. Le Dong Zheng is the Sect Master of Broken Mountain Sect and reached the Emperor Realm over a hundred years ago. There are even rumours that he is about to break through to the Second-Order Emperor Realm, so he shouldn’t be underestimated.”
Yang Kai cast him a reassuring smile, “No matter. I’ll be going in first.”
Kang Si Ran nodded and gestured to the maidservants behind him. Immediately, one of them came over, took the invitation from Yang Kai’s hand, and led him into the auction hall.
After walking through a bright and spacious corridor, they soon came to a private room.
When the door was opened, a spacious room appeared in front of Yang Kai. This room was decorated with utmost luxury, and at least twenty people could be accommodated without it feeling crowded. There was a huge transparent crystal window at the front of the room through which everything in the auction hall could be seen at a glance.
Only esteemed guests had the right to use one of these private rooms, and the maidservant clearly knew this, so her attitude was extremely humble and respectful.
“Sir, if there’s anything you need, just ask this maidservant.” The maidservant introduced some rules of the auction to Yang Kai before saying in a warm voice.
“There’s nothing we need. You can go out now. It’s enough with me here,” Qin Yu suddenly spoke up, driving out the maidservant like a fly.
The maidservant’s smile did not diminish, a sign of her good training, as she bowed politely, “Then this maidservant will go out first. This maidservant will be waiting outside the door.”
After saying that, she retreated and gently closed the door of the room behind her.
Qin Yu glanced at Yang Kai and found him looking at her with a light smile. Seeing this, she couldn’t help but blush and began evading his gaze.
“Let’s have a seat,” Yang Kai told her. Then, he found himself a seat and sat down, facing the auction stage outside, “If you see anything you like later, don’t hesitate to speak up.”
“I’ll just be watching for fun…” Qin Yu said quietly, but she saw that Yang Kai had already shut his eyes. She couldn’t help but pout as she found herself a chair to sit down on.
The room was silent for a while, which made Qin Yu feel a little uneasy. She had wanted to ask Yang Kai where he’d been these past few years, and what he’d been doing, but seeing Yang Kai have no interest in talking right now, she also couldn’t bring herself to disturb him.
Fortunately, the two did not have to wait long before the auction began.
A beautiful woman walked onto the stage, dressed in revealing clothes. A deep valley between two grand peaks was exposed to the outside air, while her long beautiful legs were only faintly hidden beneath a thin fabric dress. There was a charming look in her eyes, and before saying anything, she smiled, instantly rousing the atmosphere in the auction hall. Seeing this caused Qin Yu’s face to blush while she secretly scorned this woman.
Sneaking a peek at Yang Kai though, she found that his eyes were still closed, which made her feel a little better.
The auction hall was very lively. Due to the high standards of the auction hosted by Violet Source Chamber of Commerce, many Emperor Realm Masters attended. Each item sold at the auction was able to fetch a good price, which the beautiful female auctioneer on the stage smiled unceasingly at.
Elixirs and exotic treasures were brought out like a flowing stream, then in all directions, the sounds of bids being shouted rose and fell.
“The next item is the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin,” the beautiful woman on the stage suddenly raised her voice considerably, sweeping across the room with her beautiful eyes, “My dear friends who came with female companions, or those intending to prepare a gift for their female partners, please pay special attention here. This Mistress guarantees that this will definitely be the best gift for them.”
No matter how the beautiful woman was dressed, she naturally knew how to attract a higher price as a qualified auctioneer. As soon as she finished speaking, the faces of many attendees filled with interest; after all, they could tell from the name alone that this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin was a piece of jewellery.
Generally, it was impossible for jewellery to appear at an auction. Only some valuable artifacts were qualified to appear. Many people were curious what sort of accessory this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin was, and what sort of qualifications it had to become an auction item.
In front of everyone’s eyes, a maidservant with a tray walked out from backstage, stopping next to the beautiful auctioneer. The tray was covered by a red cloth, so nobody could see what the auctioned item looked like.
Having whetted everyone’s appetite enough, the beautiful woman smiled and uncovered the tray. In an instant, an orchid-coloured light began to dance up, illuminating the auction stage in an exquisite and beautiful glow.
Cries of surprise rang out as many women stared wide-eyed at the stage. Beautiful things had always been very attractive to womenfolk.
Once they had a clear look at the item, the women in the audience exclaimed in amazement again. That was because the orchid glow was none other than a dancing butterfly, setting off a beautiful glow each time it flapped its wings, which dazzled all its viewers.
After a short while, the butterfly landed on top of a jade-like hairpin, wings still fluttering gently as if it were a living thing.
But everyone knew that this butterfly was not a living thing. Instead, it was a specially-shaped ornament that existed on the hairpin.
The crowd watched in amazement. It wasn’t only the women who had longing eyes for the hairpin as even some men showed their interest in it.
If they could buy a piece of jewellery like this and give it to a woman they fancied, it would surely please them. There was even a chance they may be able to achieve something significant with such a gift.
“This artifact is not just for decoration, right? May I ask what its functions are, if any?” A magnetic voice came from inside a private room.
This question resounded in everyone’s hearts. Even though this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin was indeed not bad in terms of appearance, being quite beautiful, the price would definitely be greatly reduced if it was just a normal accessory.
Pretty things without much use may be liked by some women, but the ones paying out of their pockets were the men.
The beautiful woman on the stage smiled, “This is an artifact refined by Grandmaster Hou. How could it possibly be a mere accessory?”
“What?”
“This hairpin is an artifact refined by Grandmaster Hou?”
“Truly?”
The beautiful woman’s words caused everyone to burst into discussion. Exclamations rang through the entire hall, as if this Grandmaster Hou was some amazing character.
Yang Kai also opened his eyes and asked curiously, “Who is this Grandmaster Hou?”
After getting no reply to his question, he turned his head only to see Qin Yu pursing her red lips tightly, her beautiful eyes staring fixedly at the stage. The fervent expression on her face clearly showed that she was extremely interested in the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin.
Yang Kai asked again, and only then did Qin Yu come back to her senses and blushed, “Grandmaster Hou is an Artifact Refining Grandmaster that has recently risen up in the past decade. No artifact crafted by his hands is not a high-quality artifact, but…”
“But what?”
“But Grandmaster Hou keeps a very low profile. No one has ever met him in person, and nobody even knows whether Grandmaster Hou is a man or a woman.”
“So mysterious?” Yang Kai raised a brow.
Qin Yu smiled, “En, many good artifacts have appeared in the Southern Territory in the past ten years that were refined by Grandmaster Hou. Moreover, it seems like he is proficient in refining all kinds of artifacts, whether it be defensive, offensive, or even auxiliary artifacts. Regardless, this Grandmaster Hou is a highly skilled Artifact Refining Grandmaster recognized by the general public.”
Yang Kai asked, “Since no one has ever met him, how do they know that he’s the one who refined these artifacts?”
Qin Yu explained, “All the artifacts he refines come with a special mark, a small hidden monkey head.”
At this moment, the beautiful woman on the stage proclaimed, “If you do not believe me, you can check the jade hairpin in this Mistress’s hand and see whether it stems from Grandmaster Hou’s hand.”
As soon as she said that, countless Divine Senses swept over from all directions, all of them stopping on the jade hairpin. Yang Kai’s Divine Sense was also part of this wave, and after carefully studying it, he discovered that just as Qin Yu said, there really was a vivid monkey head on the side of the jade hairpin. At a glance, the monkey seemed to look alive, scratching its ears and cheeks.
“It really is Grandmaster Hou’s work!”
“There’s no doubt about it, it’s even a Dao Source Grade High-Rank artifact!”
“Very good, this Old Master will take this artifact!”
“Old Zhou, you’re already so advanced in age! What use do you have for this hairpin? Why don’t you leave an opportunity to the younger ones?”
“This Old Master has recently taken a new concubine and would like to give this artifact to her. Do you have any complaints about that?”
…..
Atop the stage, the beautiful woman ignored the chattering below and spoke, “Grandmaster Hou has not refined many artifacts, but each one of them is of superb quality. Even the Emperor Artifact Refiners in our chamber of commerce hold nothing but the highest praise for Grandmaster Hou, and they believe he has already reached the level of an Emperor Artifact Refiner! I believe that everyone is also very interested to know what kind of artifact this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin is!”
There are only a few types of artifacts, but the accessory artifacts that women generally used were defensive types. There were also offensive types, but there were more of the former than the latter.
This Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin had a beautiful appearance, and if it were a defensive type, then the price would naturally be higher.
The beautiful woman did not keep everyone in suspense and smiled lightly as she explained, “This jade hairpin is actually neither a defensive nor offensive type. Instead, it is…”
As she spoke, she pushed her Source Qi lightly and the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin in her hands suddenly grew bigger, instantly becoming ten meters across. It looked just like a butterfly that had been enlarged many times over, its giant wings gently fluttering, stirring up an enshrouding glow.
Forming seals with her hands, the beautiful woman pushed her Source Qi again and the giant butterfly turned into a flowing orchid light that flew a few circles around the auction hall before returning to the stage.
“A flight type artifact!”
The crowd gasped.
Everyone was trying to guess what type of artifact this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin was, but nobody ever expected it to be a flight type artifact. If that were true, then its value would be immense. What’s more, the speed that it displayed just now was also quite amazing.
The beautiful woman continued, “Without refining it, this Mistress can only show off half of this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin’s speed, but through the appraisal of our chamber of commerce, while its peak speed may not be able to match an Emperor Realm Master, it is definitely not far behind. It can definitely be used as an escape tool, and of course, the orchid glow of the artifact can also be hidden, so there is no worry about exposing your location.”
Through all that praise, the beautiful woman’s intentions were nothing more than to express that this was a good treasure!
And it was indeed a good treasure. Whether it be in appearance or practicality, it was enough to catch the attention of many cultivators.
Seeing that she had sufficiently built up everyone’s appetite, the female auctioneer finally shouted, “The Dao Source Grade High-Rank flight type artifact, Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin, the reserve price is fifty million Mid-Rank Source Crystals, each increase must be at least one million. Now please!”
As soon as the beautiful woman’s voice sounded, sounds of bids being called rang out.
In the blink of an eye, the starting price of fifty Mid-Rank Source Crystals rose to sixty and showed no signs of slowing down.
In another ten breaths, the price had already risen to seventy million, then eighty million in twenty breaths…
Qin Yu’s expression changed. All the joy she had on her face before was swept away, replaced by a look of dismay.
She also knew that she was simply unable to compete for such a good thing with her meagre financial resources, feeling somewhat powerless when she heard the terrifying price.
Eighty million Mid-Rank Source Crystals! With that many Source Crystals, one could even afford four Sapphire Entry Tokens to Spirit Lake Palace.
But compared to the value of this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin, eighty million was far from the bottom line. The appearance of this jade hairpin instantly set off a flurry of bidding, but after reaching eighty million, most of the cultivators in the lower hall could no longer participate in the bidding. Only the guests in the private rooms continued to compete.
In particular, the old man who announced that he had recently taken a new concubine was extremely quick to bid, and it seemed like he was certain to win.
When the price climbed to a shocking 130 million, only two competitors continued to call bids, and each bid seemed to be done after much deliberation, not nearly as quickly as before.
“141 million! Old Zhou, if you can bid higher than this price, then you can have this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin!” A voice came from one of the private rooms.
The old man surnamed Zhou laughed and said, “Since Brother Zhang has such a heart, this Old Master will naturally accept it. 142 million!”
“You win,” The previous Emperor Realm Master sighed faintly and relented.
142 million Mid-Rank Source Crystals translated to 1.42 million High-Rank Source Crystals. An Emperor Realm Master could definitely afford such an amount of wealth, but it would also depend on what they were buying. Most would naturally not spend so much on an accessory for a woman. What’s more, they were only halfway into the auction, and there were still many good things to come later. If they spent too much now, how could they bid after this?
“My respects to you!” The old man surnamed Zhou laughed and urged towards the stage, “Quickly start the countdown! No one else is bidding!”
The beautiful woman on the stage smiled and looked around, “Is anyone else going to raise the bid? If not…”
“150 million!” Yang Kai’s voice suddenly sounded.
Inside the room, Qin Yu stared dumbfounded at Yang Kai. He had been silent the whole time, so she didn’t expect him to speak up at this moment. Who was he planning to buy it for? There was no way he would buy something so expensive for her, so who was it that took up such an important position in his heart?
The old man surnamed Zhou’s laughter stopped abruptly. Instead, his voice turned furious as he shouted, “160 million!”
He could originally have taken the hairpin for 142 million, but Yang Kai just had to step in and raise the price, so he was naturally not in a good mood.
“170 million!” Yang Kai raised the price without even a change in his expression, amazing Qin Yu at the very sight.
“180 million!” The old man surnamed Zhou shouted.
“2 million!”
As soon as those words came out, the crowd was stunned and the old man surnamed Zhou let out a laugh, “Boy, is your mind muddled? 2 million…”
“High-Rank Source Crystals!” Yang Kai added.
The old man surnamed Zhou instantly choked on his mockery.
2 million High-Rank Source Crystals were equivalent in terms of pure energy to 200 million Mid-Rank Source Crystals, but in auctions like these, 200 million Mid-Rank Source Crystals couldn’t be used as a substitute for 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals. In other words, even though there was no theoretical difference between these 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals and 200 million Mid-Rank Source Crystals, the former had a far greater value than the latter.
The old man surnamed Zhou would have to pay in High-Rank Source Crystals if he wanted to raise the price again.
As such, he instantly fell silent.
With a charming smile on her face, the beautiful auctioneer gazed towards Yang Kai’s room and said, “2 million High-Rank Source Crystals from our friend in Room A3. Is there any higher bid?”
Naturally, no one raised the price.
It had to be known that the Twelfth-Order Low-Rank Monster Core that Yang Kai sold to Violet Source Chamber of Commerce was only worth 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals, so the worth of this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin was more or less the same as that of a Twelfth-Order Low-Rank Monster Core.
But this was not something that just anyone could get their hands on.
“Congratulations to our friend from Room A3!” The beautiful woman smiled. Though, she was filled with suspicion when she heard Yang Kai’s rather unfamiliar voice. She had no idea when such an important customer had arrived at their chamber of commerce. The A-Block Private Rooms were not available to ordinary cultivators, and from the fact that this unknown man could occupy a room as high up as Room A3, it was not hard to imagine that he must be a very distinguished guest.
Just after Yang Kai opened his mouth to bid, in another of the A Block Rooms, Le Dong Zheng’s eyes went cold.
He naturally recognized Yang Kai’s voice thanks to their previous interactions, so he was currently directing a hostile gaze towards the direction of Room A3, feeling a burst of anger welling up in his heart. He was already considered a big customer of Violet Source Chamber of Commerce, but even with his status, he could only sit in Room A9. What skill or ability did this youngster have in order to occupy Room A3?
After pondering for a short time, he spoke to the maidservant kneeling nearby, “Tell Manager Gu to come see me.”
“Yes!” The maidservant rose and walked out of the room.
A few moments later, Gu Hong knocked on the door and entered, cupping his fists, “Sect Master Le, what can this little one help your distinguished self with?”
Le Dong Zheng said, “The man from Room A3… What kind of person is he?”
Gu Hong was stunned and answered with some difficulty, “Why does Sect Master Le ask? Sect Master Le should also know about the chamber of commerce’s rules. Even though this Gu is a Manager, he is in no way allowed to disclose information about our customers.”
Le Dong Zheng smiled, “There are always exceptions, are there not?”
Gu Hong answered, “That is somewhat difficult, Sect Master Le.”
Le Dong Zheng frowned. He had been doing business with Gu Hong for so many years, and they knew of each other’s natures, so he knew that this Gu Hong was no honourable man. Sighing, he spoke, “I’ll be frank with you. This Old Master has a grudge with that little brat.”
Gu Hong was curious, “What has he done to offend Sect Master Le?”
Le Dong Zheng coldly snorted, “It would be fine if he had just offended me, but three of my Third-Order Dao Source Realm disciples died at his hands. One of them even happened to be a descendant of this Old Master!”
“What?!” Gu Hong was shocked, thinking to himself it only made sense for Le Dong Zheng to inquire about this man’s information. It turned out there was a deep grudge between them.
Le Dong Zheng continued, “Manager Gu, you saw it yourself. That boy didn’t hesitate to make such an astonishing bid, so he must be extremely wealthy. If I can take him down, then I’m sure to get a handsome profit out of it. How about a thirty percent share for Manager Gu when the time comes?”
Gu Hong wore a bitter look on his face, “Sect Master Le, it’s not that this Gu is unwilling to help…”
“Fifty percent!”
“This, this…” Gu Hong pretended to think for a while before striking his thigh, “Sect Master Le, this Gu is not too clear about his origins, but he suddenly appeared yesterday in the branch. Prior to this, this Gu had never seen him…”
“It seems like Manager Gu is unwilling to help this Old Master with this favour. Fine. This Old Master won’t come to the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce to do business anymore in the future,” Le Dong Zheng coldly snorted.
Gu Hong smiled bitterly, “Sect Master Le, although I don’t know his origins, this Gu can inform Sect Master Le about his whereabouts and when he leaves the auction later.”
Le Dong Zheng’s eyes flickered as he nodded, “In that case, this Old Master will offer his gratitude to Manager Gu.”
Rubbing his hands, Gu Hong asked, “About the fifty percent that Sect Master Le mentioned before…”
“It will definitely be yours,” Le Dong Zheng waved his hand.
“Then many thanks to Sect Master Le. This Gu will wish for Sect Master Le’s absolute victory in battle!”
After leaving the room, a cold glint appeared in Gu Hong’s eyes, [Don’t blame me for this, boy, but you need to disappear for my future.]
After Yang Kai appeared yesterday, he clearly noticed that Branch President Lou Chi’s attitude towards him had grown much colder, and he had become more enthusiastic with Kang Si Ran. After remembering what happened when Yang Kai came to the branch, how could Gu Hong not realize that he must have negotiated a big deal with Kang Si Ran? What’s more, this deal most likely totalled to an unimaginable sum for such a dramatic shift in attitude to occur.
Only with that would he be able to help Kang Si Ran overturn his luck. If Kang Si Ran managed to turn his fortunes around, then Gu Hong would become the unfortunate one.
Someone had to be transferred away from this branch, and if Kang Si Ran remained, Gu Hong would definitely be transferred.
But if Yang Kai died, Kang Si Ran would lose his support, and then he naturally would have nothing more to fear.
In Room A3, a maidservant brought over the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin, and Yang Kai paid 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals before taking the jade hairpin in his hands and fiddling with it. Even though he hadn’t refined it, and could not appreciate the full capabilities of this Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin, Yang Kai could tell that this jade hairpin had been crafted with utmost care and was a rare artifact.
On closer inspection, the monkey face on the side seemed even more vivid and lifelike.
After taking a careful look at it, Yang Kai tossed the jade hairpin towards Qin Yu.
Qin Yu was still recovering from her shock and caught it in a flustered manner, only to stare back at Yang Kai in astonishment.
“A small gift for you,” Yang Kai said. Then, he shut his eyes and continued to meditate.
“For me…?” Holding the jade hairpin in her hand, Qin Yu’s heart froze as if it had been struck by lightning and her cheeks burned up.
She was wondering just a moment ago which woman occupied such an important position in Yang Kai’s heart that he was willing to spend 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals to buy a mere hairpin for them, but now that hairpin suddenly landed in her hands.
[Did Big Brother Yang buy this for me?]
[Do I really occupy such an important position in his heart?]
Qin Yu couldn’t help but let her thoughts run wild as she looked timidly at Yang Kai, only to have the flames in her heart instantly doused with cold water. She could see that Yang Kai’s eyes were closed, as if what he just gave her was not a flight type artifact worth 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals, but a trinket he found in a street stall somewhere.
“Big Brother Yang, this is far too expensive…” Qin Yu calmed herself and quickly refused.
This hairpin was purchased for 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals, an enormous sum for her Qin Family. She and Yang Kai were neither kin nor lovers, so how could she accept such a heavy gift from him?
While saying that, she handed the jade hairpin back to him.
Yang Kai opened his eyes, “You really don’t want it?”
Qin Yu bit her lip and shook her head. This hairpin cost too much, she simply couldn’t accept it.
Yang Kai laughed, “If you don’t want it, there’s no use for me even if I take it back.”
Qin Yu lowered her head and muttered, “Big Brother Yang can give it to… a woman he likes. No matter who it is, I’m sure they’ll be happy.”
“But I’ve already given it to you first,” Yang Kai said.
“But I’m not…” Qin Yu’s voice grew even quieter.
Yang Kai told her, “I’ve been using your Qin Family’s Myriads Sword for so long, and it has aided me in many great battles. Just take this hairpin as my thank you gift to the Qin Family. You don’t have to let it trouble you.”
“It’s not the same,” Qin Yu shook her head. Why would someone gift a piece of jewellery to someone they were not close with? And a piece that was so valuable at that.
“Then I can only return the Myriads Sword to your Qin Family,” Yang Kai said with a serious face.
“Don’t!” Qin Yu quickly shook her head. Even though the Myriads Sword belonged to the Qin Family, it was a genuine Emperor Artifact, and there was no way the Qin Family would be capable of guarding it. It was fortunate that Qin Zhao Yang let Yang Kai take away the Myriads Sword back then, for if it really had remained in the Qin Family, it would have already brought them incredible danger.
Qin Yu was stunned, but somehow, she felt much more relaxed.
It seemed that the 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals, which was an enormous amount to the Qin Family, was nothing to Yang Kai. In other words, what he gave her was not considered something particularly valuable to him, but just a simple thank-you gift.
Thinking about it that way, Qin Yu felt a little relieved.
“Then… Thank you, Big Brother Yang.” Holding the jade hairpin in the palm of her hands, Qin Yu thanked him.
[This may just be a simple thank-you gift in your eyes, but to me, this is the most valuable gift I have ever received, and it has nothing to do with the price…]
The auction continued. After the shocking price the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin was able to sell for, the atmosphere had grown even more fervent. It seemed like everyone’s competitive spirit was stirred up, and the price of each item steadily climbed.
An hour later, the auction was drawing to a close.
After a short break, the beautiful auctioneer came back onto the stage and said with great enthusiasm, “The next item on the auction will be the finale of tonight… The Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor!”
As soon as she said that, she made a gesture with her hand and at once, two strong men walked out from backstage carrying a fine metal box, trudging step by step towards the auction stage, seemingly requiring arduous effort just to walk steadily.
In an instant, thousands of eyes were focused on the stage and the breaths of many suddenly quickened in the dark.
This Great Souring Black Dragon Armor had been announced by Violet Source Chamber of Commerce for this auction three months ago. It was also for that reason that many Emperor Realm Masters who had their eyes on this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor attended the auction today. It was safe to say that this one piece of Artifact Armor was worth more than all the previous auction items added together.
*Hong…*
When the two strong men put the box on the ground, it issued a dull thud as it landed on the stage, as if this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor was extremely heavy. Many people were astonished, but they all knew that as long as they were able to refine it, then even the heaviest of Artifact Armors would become as light as air. Otherwise, the weight alone would be enough to greatly diminish the value of the Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor.
In the auction hall, many people were waiting with bated breath. Countless Divine Senses swept in from all directions towards the stage, clamouring to get the first look of the finale item.
An Emperor Artifact in itself was already extremely valuable, let alone a defensive type Emperor Artifact. What’s more, this was actually an Emperor Grade Mid-Rank Artifact Armor.
But to everyone’s regret, the box that seemed to be made of heavy metal actually blocked the probing of Divine Sense, so the efforts of the crowd were met with no results.
On the stage, the beautiful woman looked around with a smile for a moment before speaking, “This Artifact Armor was not refined by a contemporary Artifact Refining Grandmaster, but was actually found in an ancient cave mansion. It is a very old item, and was chanced upon by a friend who sent it to our chamber of commerce for auction.”
When the crowd heard this, many of them had looks of envy on their faces.
It wasn’t uncommon to find ancient cave mansions in the Star Boundary, but not everyone could encounter them. Even if somebody were to find one, there was a chance the Spirit Arrays inside would trap or even kill them, so obtaining treasures from such a place was always a risky prospect.
To be able to find an ancient cave mansion and leave unharmed, even obtaining a treasure of this level from within, one could imagine how great that person’s luck was.
[Why aren’t I as lucky as that?] Everyone was asking themselves with gritted teeth. If they could have such a fortuitous encounter, then they probably wouldn’t have to worry about cultivation resources for several lifetimes.
“Due to its age, though this Artifact Armor may be Mid-Rank, it has some flaws!”
The auction hall instantly fell silent at the beautiful woman’s words.
After a while, a voice came from one of the A Block rooms, “May I ask what sort of flaws it has?”
Many Emperor Realm Masters came specifically for this set of Artifact Armor. Previously, Violet Source Chamber of Commerce advertised that they will have an Emperor Grade Mid-Rank Artifact Armor for auction, but now, this beautiful woman was telling them that this Artifact Armor had some kind of defect.
Yang Kai was also stunned as Kang Si Ran had never told him about this.
But with his relationship with Kang Si Ran, Yang Kai was certain the former would not have hidden such a fact from him if he had known about it beforehand. In other words, even Kang Si Ran did not know about this secret.
After some thought, however, Yang Kai relaxed. Even though it may have some flaws, it was still an Emperor Grade Mid-Rank Artifact Armor. There was no need for them to be too specific while they were promoting their auction. They just had to attract visitors.
At this moment, the beautiful woman smiled, “You will all know in a moment. Now, let us invite Vice President Luo over to test the might of this Artifact Armor!”
As she gestured to her back, a somewhat short figure quickly walked out from backstage. It was Lou Chi who had been keeping watch over the auction the whole time.
Lou Chi walked over to the beautiful woman’s side and cupped his fists to the guests in the hall. Then, without a word, he condensed his Emperor Qi and pointed a finger towards the metal case. Following a noise breaking through the air, thumbnail-sized pieces of armor began flying out of the iron box, moving towards Lou Chi’s body in a chain like a black dragon.
In a clatter, the thumbnail-sized pieces of armour covered Lou Chi in a very orderly manner. Stitching together in a strict pattern, the pieces formed a black Artifact Armor that covered from his neck down to his feet.
With the armour on, Lou Chi’s aura suddenly became extremely fierce and awe-inspiring like a god of war. His First-Order Emperor Realm cultivation even seemed to have been enhanced by the armour, which dumbfounded the auction attendees.
From its appearance, the Artifact Armor did not look too heavy. Rather, it looked quite light. Lou Chi was also moving nimbly on the stage without the joints affecting him in any way. But the crowd could see very clearly that even though the Artifact Armor basically covered his entire body, there was a certain plate-sized gap on his abdomen.
It didn’t look like the Artifact Armor had been designed like this. Rather, it seemed to be missing a piece, as if this Artifact Armor had suffered a serious blow at some point, causing the piece which protected one’s lower abdomen to be lost.
“This Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor used to be a complete set, but unfortunately, part of it is missing for reasons unknown,” the beautiful woman explained.
“Is this armour even useful with such a large piece missing?” Someone asked.
The beautiful woman smiled, “The techniques of the ancient Artifact Refining Grandmasters are too foreign to us, so repairing this Artifact Armor is not possible. However, although the armour looks quite damaged, it still retains most of its defensive power. Of course, though the Artifact Armor is technically Emperor Grade Mid-Rank, the defensive power it can offer is only a bit higher than Emperor Grade Low-Rank.
While the woman spoke, Lou Chi suddenly let out a quick shout and the black armour on his body made a clinking noise before flying off from his body. Piece by piece, it hovered in mid-air, reuniting and reforming in its completed shape.
Lou Chi then lifted his hand, and a heavy and yellowed ancient book appeared in his palm.
“Unified Ceremonial Record!” Someone exclaimed.
This object that resembled an ancient book in appearance was Lou Chi’s Emperor Artifact, the Unified Ceremonial Record.
Luo Chi pushed his Emperor Qi into the Unified Ceremonial Record and caused two rays of light to shoot out, one black, one white. These yin and yang beams of light shot towards the Artifact Armor in the air. The immense power fluctuations caused everyone to pale. Nobody had any doubts that if these two rays of light were to be shot towards an unprepared Emperor Realm Master, they may kill instantly.
With a rumble, the rays of light struck the black armour, but only a spark came of it. The surface of the black armour was still glistening with a dark sheen, completely unharmed.
The beautiful woman spoke at that time, raising her voice considerably, “Through the joint appraisal of our chamber of commerce’s Grandmasters, we have determined that this set of armour is refined from the scales of an adult Black Flood Dragon. Even though Flood Dragons are common in the Star Boundary, Black Flood Dragons are extremely rare creatures known for their amazing defensive strength. This Great Soaring Black Dragon Armour is made from the scales of such a Black Flood Dragon, and its defence cannot be compared to any ordinary Emperor Artifact. This artifact can definitely save one’s life at critical moments!”
“It’s made from the scales of a Black Flood Dragon?!”
“Flood Dragons have the bloodline of the Dragon Clan. Doesn’t that mean that the scales of an adult Black Flood Dragon would also have some Draconic Nature? Sure enough, this is a good thing!”
“It may be good, but the price…”
There was a bustle under the stage for a while. The beautiful woman’s smile deepened as she waited a while before announcing, “Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor, reserve price, 10 million High-Rank Source Crystals. There are no limits on the increase. Please feel free to bid!”
As soon as those words came out, everyone drew a sharp breath.
Previously the most expensive item sold in the auction was a bottle of Emperor Grade Spirit Pills that went for 6 million High-Rank Source Crystals.
But now, the starting price of this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor actually turned out to be 10 million High-Rank Source Crystals. It was not hard to imagine how terrifying its final price would be. The starting price alone was enough to deter ninety-nine percent of people from bidding.
Only the well-prepared Emperor Realm Masters were itching with excitement. Even though 10 million High-Rank Source Crystals was a lot, Lou Chi’s demonstration earlier showed everyone that this armour did not even scratch under the attack of a First-Order Emperor Realm Master. With an Artifact Armor like this, one could become almost invincible in front of a First-Order Emperor Realm Master. They may even be able to hold out against a Second-Order Emperor Realm Master for a short time.
Nobody wanted to miss out on something as good as this, but they also worried about the fierce competition that was waiting ahead of them.
Nobody wanted to be the one to poke their head out and make the first bid. Everyone wanted to get a feel for the competition before making their move, so for a while, the auction hall fell silent.
The beautiful woman who stood on the stage simply smiled as brightly as before, not at all in a hurry. After hosting so many auctions, she knew what these people were thinking. Even though the Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor had defects, it was still a rare treasure that would certainly be sold for a great sum.
The silence only persisted for ten breaths before someone’s voice finally rang out, “20 million!”
The Emperor Realm Masters who were still waiting to see what would happen were all startled and looked towards the source of the voice.
The voice came from Room A3, from the same man who won the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin earlier.
In an instant, the faces of many people went dark while some even cursed the person in Room A3 in their hearts.
What was he trying to do by raising the price of something from 10 million to 20 million all at once? Even if he was rich, he shouldn’t be so uncouth! Or perhaps, he was hired by the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce?
People like him were common in many auctions, their task to inflate the price of auction items and to stir up the competitive emotions of the bidders in order to squeeze more profit out of them.
With that thought in mind, some people immediately believed that the man in Room A3 was a plant.
Inside Room A3, Qin Yu was covering her red lips with both hands as she stared in shock at Yang Kai, “Big Brother Yang, those are High-Rank Source Crystals…”
She was worried that Yang Kai did not understand the starting price and mistook it for Mid-Rank or Low-Rank Source Crystals, so she quickly tried to remind him in case he would not be able to take back his bid later.
“I know,” Yang Kai nodded and smiled lightly at her.
Qin Yu was stunned for a time before she remembered what he said to her when he gifted her the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin. It turned out that 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals really was nothing in his eyes!
“That little bastard!”
“Boy, you should mind your manners!”
“Brat, do you dare tell us your name? This Old Master would like to see whose disciple you are!”
The Emperor Realm Masters in the private rooms were also riled up at this moment and began to curse and shout.
Inside Room A9, Le Dong Zheng’s eyes almost popped out in shock as well. He already had the idea that Yang Kai was rich when he spent 2 million High-Rank Source Crystals on the Flowing Clouds Butterfly Hairpin earlier, and if he really managed to kill him, then he would definitely gain a lot. Still, he never thought that Yang Kai was rich to this extent.
He had called a price of 20 million High-Rank Source Crystals so casually, so what was his bottom line? 30 million? 40 million?
Regardless, he definitely had a lot of High-Rank Source Crystals on hand.
“Good, good, good, what a blessing for my Broken Mountain Sect!” Le Dong Zheng suddenly laughed. The richer Yang Kai was, the happier he was. As long as he could kill Yang Kai, then all that wealth would belong to him.
As for Gu Hong, he could just toss him some spare change. What fifty percent? That was simply a fool’s dream.
“You old ghosts, you still dare come to an auction even without the means to compete? Miss, I suggest disqualifying them from the auction and driving them out, lest they tarnish the reputation of the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce.” Yang Kai was also not pleased with the scolding and shouted to the beautiful woman on the stage.
The beautiful woman heard this and frowned, “Please, are you here for the auction or to quarrel? If you are here to curse at others, then this Mistress must ask you to stop interfering with the progress of our auction.”
As soon as she said that, the Emperor Realm Masters went silent, not daring to start any more trouble.
The Violet Source Chamber of Commerce was one of the two top chambers of commerce in the Southern Territory, and they were in cooperation with many Sects in the territory when it came to business. If they really offended them, then it would not have any benefits to their Sects.
“This Old Master offers 21 million! Boy, up the bid if you have the guts!” The old man in one of the private rooms coldly snorted, seemingly convinced that Yang Kai was a hired troublemaker.
“30 million!”
The old man almost spat out a mouthful of blood when he heard this, and his face turned extremely ugly.
He originally thought that, since Yang Kai was hired to raise the price during the auction, then his task would have been completed after raising the price by 10 million. Even though it aggravated him so much that it made his teeth itch, being able to buy the Artifact Armor for 21 million was still a good bargain.
But he didn’t expect that little brat from Room A3 to raise the price to 30 million in one breath.
He wasn’t working for them! There was no way he was a hired plant as no one would be hired to make such ridiculous bids, and it was also impossible for them to make such irrational bids. If they were to hike up the price as madly as this, it would most likely scare most of the prospective bidders away.
That was to say, this little brat really intended to get his hands on the Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor.
This old man was not the only one who realized this; most of the Emperor Realm Masters at the auction realized this as well.
That person in Room A3 was definitely a man with a lot of money.
“31 million!” Only ten breaths later did someone make a bid with much difficulty.
“35 million!” Yang Kai immediately followed.
A sigh soon came from one of the private rooms, followed by many others soon after, but nobody raised the bid.
A normal Emperor Artifact could basically sell for around 15 to 20 million High-Rank Source Crystals. If it was a defensive Emperor Artifact, that number could go even higher, to around 20 to 30 million. Even though this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor was an Emperor Grade Mid-Rank defensive artifact, it was damaged, so its price hovered between Emperor Grade Low-Rank and Emperor Grade Mid-Rank defensive artifacts.
35 million was already the bottom line for most.
Moreover, such an enormous amount of Source Crystals could not be taken out by just anyone.
At the auction in Flowing Shadow City a few months ago, most of the Emperor Realm Masters who attended only had a net worth of around 10 to 20 million. Rarely would any of them have 30 million High-Rank Source Crystals or more.
That was why Yang Kai was almost certain that this 35 million bid was going to be enough to seal the deal.
And so it was.
The beautiful auctioneer looked around for a moment, and once she was certain nobody would bid anymore, so she shouted at once, “Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor, 35 million High-Rank Source Crystals! Are there any higher bids? If not, then this armour will belong to our friend in Room A3.”
After counting to three, the beautiful woman smiled in Yang Kai’s direction, “Congratulations to our friend in Room A3!”
She couldn’t help but get a strange feeling welling up inside of her. This finale should have been a hard-fought battle between the Emperor Realm Masters, with many competing bids called one after another until ultimately the dust settled and one victor emerged. She never anticipated that this man from Room A3 would settle things so decisively, winning the auction in just a few rounds.
Most of the attendees who were thinking of bidding didn’t even manage to make a single offer. The only thing they got out of it was the show.
Even after hosting so many auctions, it was the first time she had encountered a situation like this. The man from Room A3 was truly a big patron. If she had the chance, she wanted to get to know him and perhaps even secure an opportunity to work with him.
With the dust of the final item settled, the auction came to an end. The cultivators in the hall all got up and headed out, still feeling a little dazzled. The Emperor Realm Masters in the private rooms were also led out of the rooms by the maidservants, leaving through secret passages.
In Room A3, Yang Kai waited quietly for a moment before a knock sounded at the door.
Yang Kai responded to the knock, and the door was immediately pushed open. A maidservant entered with two strong men who were carrying that metal storage box inside. A short while later, after the goods and payment were exchanged, someone else guided Yang Kai towards his private secret exit.
This was one way in which the auction house protected their customers in order to prevent any auctioned goods from being targeted by others. The Violet Source Chamber of Commerce built hundreds of secret passages leading in all directions out of Maplewood City. Without knowing the direction beforehand, no one could track a particular patron.
Even though Yang Kai wasn’t afraid in the first place, he didn’t refuse this arrangement.
Very soon, under the guide of the maidservant, they entered an underground tunnel.
Outside Room A9, Gu Hong knocked on the door and was allowed inside.
Le Dong Zheng, who was resting in the room, opened his eyes. A flicker passed across his eyes as his lips opened and closed, silently transmitting a question to Gu Hong.
Gu Hong couldn’t hide the excitement on his face and quickly responded.
Le Dong Zheng then got up, and with a flick of his sleeves, left quickly.
Gu Hong stood in place and pondered for a moment, but he still decided to sneakily follow him out. He knew Le Dong Zheng’s nature too well. For that Yang Kai guy to actually be so rich was something he did not expect before. If Le Dong Zheng really succeeded, then he did not believe that he would keep his promise to share fifty percent of the profit with him.
That was why it would be better for him to keep an eye on them himself. Once Le Dong Zheng succeeded, he would go over and catch him. He believed then that it would be difficult for him to deny him anything on the spot.
This was a matter concerning tens of millions of High-Rank Source Crystals, so how could Gu Hong not be careful? If this deal went well, then he wouldn’t have to compete with Kang Si Ran for anything anymore. He could just go wherever he pleased, living out the rest of his life without worries.
It was a cup of tea’s time later that Yang Kai and Qin Yu finally came out from the side of a small hill.
When they looked up, they could see the bright moon and the stars.
After finding his bearings, Yang Kai released his Emperor Qi, wrapping it around Qin Yu, before leaving in a certain direction.
In just a few moments, the two arrived above a small knoll. Looking down, they could see many people gathered below. Seemingly having sensed them approaching, those people looked up, wary expressions forming on their faces when they saw a stream of light shooting towards them.
“Grandpa!” Qin Yu shouted.
When Qin Zhao Yang heard her, he let out a relaxed laugh and shouted, “No need to worry, it’s just Little Brother Yang and Yu’er.”
The stream of light landed in front of the crowd, revealing the figures of Yang Kai and Qin Yu.
Looking over the crowd, Yang Kai asked, “Is everyone here?”
Before going to the auction, he sent a message to the Zhang Family, telling them to meet up with the Qin Family here. Looking at them now, no one seemed to be missing.
Old Lady Zhang said, “Everyone from the Zhang Family is here.”
The Zhang Family did not have many people to begin with, and they had also just about gotten everything prepared in the days before, so when they received Yang Kai’s message, they were able to move at once. The Qin Family was also in the same situation. Qin Zhao Yang had even managed to sell off the land deed. Now, both families were all gathered here.
Together, the two small families numbered around a hundred and fifty people with a wide variety of cultivations. The strongest one here was Qin Yu at the mere Second-Order Dao Source Realm. The others were either Origin King Realm, Origin Returning Realm, or even Saint King Realm and Saint Realm.
“Brother-in-law, are we really going to the Northern Territory?” Zhang Ruo Yu jumped out, her small face filled with tension and anticipation.
She hadn’t even travelled outside Maplewood City’s boundaries, despite how old she was, but now she would be going to the extremely far Northern Territory. As a native of the Southern Territory, she was extremely unfamiliar with the Northern Territory.
“Brother-in-law?” Qin Yu was stunned, feeling both confusion and anxiety.
“Who’s your brother-in-law? Don’t just shout randomly, little girl!” Yang Kai’s face went black.
Ning Su Wan also shouted, “Ruo Yu! Come back.”
“Oh,” Zhang Ruo Yu pouted and stood sullenly to the side. When she looked up, she suddenly met Qin Yu’s eyes. She grinned at her, revealing a bright, happy smile as she called out, “Elder Sister Qin!”
Qin Yu squeezed out a smile at her, “Little Sister Ruo Yu.”
“Since you’re all here, let’s go,” Yang Kai called out to them. If he were going alone, then he would be able to reach Thousand Leaves Sect in just two days, but since he had to bring along such a large group of people with varied strengths, he estimated that it would take them at least half a month to arrive.
As soon as he said that though, Yang Kai frowned. Sensing something coming from behind, he turned around just to see a stream of light speeding through the sky, and it seemed to be moving towards them.
Qin Zhao Yang, Ning Su Wan, and the others clearly noticed it as well, and they all instantly became nervous, especially Qin Zhao Yang. After all, Yang Kai had just offended one of Star Soul Palace’s disciples the other day, so if one of their Masters were to come after them, then the Qin Family would be done for.
“You should all go on ahead. I’ll be right behind you.” Yang Kai had already recognized who was coming when he released his Divine Sense, so after telling the Qin and Zhang Family to leave first, he turned around and waited.
“Which way do we go?” Qin Zhao Yang asked.
Yang Kai pointed in a direction.
“Be careful, Little Brother Yang,” Qin Zhao Yang said out of concern, and after a nod to Ning Su Wan, the two immediately led their clansmen forward.
If they stayed here, then they would only become a drag on Yang Kai, so the two of them made a quick decision to leave.
In the blink of an eye, the hundred and fifty people gradually moved further and further away.
A few moments later, the stream of light landed. Light fading away, an elderly man’s figure was revealed.
“Sect Master Le, where are you going in such a hurry?” Yang Kai smiled at Le Dong Zheng who had come chasing after him.
A cold glint flashed past Le Dong Zheng’s eyes and he snorted, “You already know the answer.”
Looking towards the two clans walking away in the distance, Le Dong Zheng asked, “Are those all your people?”
“Indeed!” Yang Kai nodded.
Le Dong Zheng sneered, “Very good. None of them will be able to escape. This Old Master will slaughter them all!”
Yang Kai smiled in response, “That will depend on whether you can live that long.”
Le Dong Zheng narrowed his eyes, “You talk big, little brat. You think you can win against this Old Master?”
Even if Yang Kai’s cultivation level was similar to his, Le Dong Zheng still didn’t put him in his eyes. They were both First-Order Emperors, but he had been immersed in this realm for a long time, so how could some insignificant unknown person be able to compare to him?
“You really are a frog in a well, aren’t you!” Yang Kai snickered.
“Impudence!” Le Dong Zheng fumed at his words.
But as he spoke, Yang Kai who was originally several dozen metres away suddenly appeared in front of him, his face almost sticking to his. The distance between them had instantaneously shrunk to an arm’s length!
Le Dong Zheng gasped, so shocked that all his hairs stood on end.
He didn’t even notice how Yang Kai moved before this young man was already in front of him.
Those eyes that were right in front of him were filled with disdain and mockery, causing Le Dong Zheng’s heart to sink straight down into the abyss.
He pushed his Emperor Qi out of instinct and moved his feet, trying to open some distance between him and Yang Kai, but Le Dong Zheng was shocked to find that no matter how he moved, Yang Kai would stick to him like maggots on rotting bones, not allowing him to get away.
Casually throwing out his palm towards Le Dong Zheng’s chest, the mocking look in Yang Kai’s eyes morphed into coldness as he snorted, “Die!”
Gu Hong chased Le Dong Zheng all the way over without rest, and was so tired he was gasping for breath.
He only had a Third-Order Dao Source Realm cultivation, which was vastly inferior to Le Dong Zheng’s own cultivation, so his speed was naturally worse. If Gu Hong had not known which passage Yang Kai was coming out of, then he likely wouldn’t have known where to find them.
After arriving at the scene, Gu Hong immediately found a bush to hide in and concealed his aura before looking around.
He didn’t hear any fighting nor feel any energy fluctuations though, so could it be that Le Dong Zheng had already dealt with that little brat?
But that shouldn’t be the case. He was right on their tail, so even if Le Dong Zheng was strong, that boy was still an Emperor Realm Master and should at least be able to hold on for a while.
Unless the battlefield shifted.
Gu Hong felt that the possibility of that was quite high. Perhaps their strength was almost the same with each other and they were still locked in a desperate struggle, but he had no idea where they were fighting now. It would be best if they were both in a lose-lose situation, then he would be able to pick them both off for a tidy profit. If the chance arose, Gu Hong didn’t mind double crossing Le Dong Zheng and tossing him into the same pot as Yang Kai.
While Gu Hong was fantasizing about such possibilities, a faint smell of blood suddenly wafted over in the wind.
When he smelled it, Gu Hong’s face changed.
When he looked over, he could see what seemed to be a man lying a thousand metres away from him, under the moonlight.
“This…” Gu Hong’s expression froze as he focused his sight.
The man lying on the ground had his face slightly tilted to the side, which just happened to be in his direction, allowing him to see his expression clearly.
“Le Dong Zheng!” Gu Hong jumped in fright while at the same time a chill ran down his spine.
Broken Mountain Sect’s Sect Master, who had left Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s auction house just before him, was currently lying there, motionless and covered in blood. Gu Hong had no idea whether Le Dong Zheng was dead or alive, but there was a big chance that he may be dead, because Gu Hong was unable to detect any vitality from this figure.
The blood in Gu Hong’s body almost froze as he stood stiff for a long time, not daring to move.
Le Dong Zheng was a veteran First-Order Emperor, and there were many rumours that he could break through to the Second-Order at any moment, so how could a Master of this calibre actually fall to such a state? Who had done this?
Even though he was clearly alive and well just a moment ago, intent on seeking revenge on that little brat from Room A3, how did he end up here like a dead fish?
Gu Hong did not dare to move for a long time, for fear that a strong enemy may be lying in wait nearby. He was worried that he would only lure disaster upon himself if he were to move recklessly.
Only after waiting for a full hour and seeing no changes did Gu Hong find the courage to stand up and approach Le Dong Zheng vigilantly.
In just a moment, he arrived before Le Dong Zheng. Looking at how tragically he died, Gu Hong was astonished.
One move!
Le Dong Zheng had been killed in one move. There was a clear palm print on his chest, which had completely collapsed, and there were still traces of blood around his mouth and nose which had not dried completely. His wide eyes were filled with a look of disbelief, as if he had seen something unbelievable before he died.
*Gudong…*
Gu Hong gulped. For a Master like Le Dong Zheng who was such a towering existence in his eyes to be killed off in one move, how powerful would his killer have to be?
Whether it was that boy from Room A3 who was responsible for his death or not, there could be no doubt he was involved in this matter somehow. There was no way Gu Hong could stay in Maplewood City any longer. If that little brat were to find out that he was the one who revealed his location, then his own fate would not be any better.
Shivering, Gu Hong glanced at Le Dong Zheng’s hand and did not find any trace of his Space Ring. Clearly, it was taken away by the killer.
He didn’t dare to stay any longer, pushing his Source Qi to quickly flee from this place.
The speed of over a hundred people travelling was much slower than Yang Kai had expected, and there was a need to stop regularly. Only after ten days did they barely cover half of the distance.
Fortunately, they didn’t encounter any dangers. If this was any other time, then it would be easy for a group like them to be targeted by some unsavoury cultivators while wandering the Star Boundary, but with Yang Kai watching over them, anyone daring enough to trouble them would just die miserably.
Whether it be the Zhang Family or the Qin Family, they were a little sad to be leaving the place they had been living in for generations so abruptly, and the feeling was only magnified for the older members.
The young people, on the other hand, were filled with curiosity and anticipation about the outside world, especially Zhang Ruo Yu. She would constantly ask Yang Kai questions when there was time. Any strange fact she could learn was enough to keep her amused for a long time.
This girl’s personality was very different from Ruo Xi’s. She was lively and active, as if she had an endless supply of energy. Even her barrage of questions seemed to go on forever.
Yang Kai did not show any impatience with her behaviour though. He had to introduce the Northern Territory and the situation in his own Sect to the two families to begin with, so he would answer any questions Zhang Ruo Yu had for him, gradually filling the hundreds of people with longing for the Northern Territory and High Heaven Palace.
After more than twenty days of walking, the group finally arrived at the former Thousand Leaves Sect.
Bringing the two families into Emperor Heaven Valley, Yang Kai activated the Space Array and divided the group into several batches, teleporting them to High Heaven Palace.
Yang Kai brought up the rear, and as soon as he arrived with the last dozen people in High Heaven Palace, Hua Qing Si immediately came up to greet him, “Palace Master!”
When the first batch of cultivators was teleported over, the two Thousand Leaves Sect disciples who were on guard immediately transmitted a message to Head Manager Hua Qing Si. Hua Qing Si had no idea what was going on either, so she rushed over to investigate.
After some inquiries, she found out that it was Yang Kai who arranged for them to come here, so she naturally did not dare to be rude to them.
Yang Kai nodded and looked at the two families, smiling.
At this moment, each and every one of them had an amazed look on their face, and their eyes were filled with joy and surprise. Zhang Ruo Yu had even opened her arms wide, her face filled with joy as if she wanted to embrace this world.
High Heaven Palace was built on the foundation of the original Seeking Passion Sect, a paradise covered in spiritual mountains and great rivers. The World Energy here was so dense that it was not something that Maplewood City could compare to. All of them felt as if they’d been reborn to suddenly come to such a wonderland. If they were not actively restraining themselves, some of them would even be cheering and crying in happiness at this moment.
“Zhu Qing didn’t come back yet, did she?” Yang Kai asked Hua Qing Si in a quiet voice as he scanned the area warily.
“No,” Hua Qing Si shook her head.
“Good,” Yang Kai let out a sigh of relief even though he knew it was impossible for Zhu Qing to return so quickly. She was going to a famous Forbidden Zone, the Frozen Earth, and had to track down the Source left behind by her clansmen after their death, not an easy task. Still, it was best to be careful. If Zhu Qing really did return, then she would probably stick to him like a leech again, impossible to get rid of.
“Palace Master, what arrangements should be made for these two families?” Hua Qing Si asked.
Yang Kai responded, “Why are you asking me, aren’t you the Head Manager? Just settle them down wherever suitable, no need for preferential treatment or whatnot. Pick out some cultivators with good aptitude as well so they can become the first batch of disciples of High Heaven Palace, then focus on training them for a little.”
“Understood,” Hua Qing Si nodded.
After hearing what Yang Kai had to say, she knew what to do.
“You go make the arrangements, I still have something to talk to you about later.” Yang Kai waved his hand.
“Yes!” Hua Qing Si answered. Then, she flew into the sky and shouted, “Everyone, since you have entered our High Heaven Palace, you are all now one of us! Come with me.”
She was still an Emperor Realm Master after all, so as soon as she spoke, the two families immediately became serious and followed her.
In the blink of an eye, more than a hundred people left the plaza.
Body shifting, Yang Kai arrived at his own chambers.
Half a day later, Hua Qing Si came to report the situation to him. The two families were arranged to stay on a mountain peak with a decent World Energy density. There were ready-made buildings there that were enough for them to settle into. Hua Qing Si had also left them some cultivation materials, and told them that their cultivation situation would be checked on in a year. After that, they would be given different statuses depending on their progress.
There was nothing to criticize about her arrangements and Yang Kai believed that the two families would have nothing to complain about. The two families were barely eking out a living in Maplewood City and were constantly on edge against outside threats. Now, not only had High Heaven Palace provided them with a safe and secure place to live, they were even provided with an outstanding cultivation environment and resources, so they were naturally happy and excited.
“Palace Master, you said you had something to speak to me about earlier. What is it?” Hua Qing Si asked after she finished reporting on the situation of the two families.
“En, it’s like this. When I went to the Southern Territory, I made a deal with the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce,” Yang Kai briefly explained the details to her.
Hua Qing Si urged him on, “And?”
Yang Kai continued, “And then I suddenly wondered whether our High Heaven Palace could achieve a long-term business relationship with the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce. We’re in the Northern Territory, while they’re in the Southern Territory. The products of both regions are different. Some things may be cheap and abundant in the Northern Territory, but once you arrive in the Southern Territory, it becomes expensive and rare. The same is also true the other way around.”
“So, we buy low, sell high!” Hua Qing Si understood instantly.
Many merchants did the same in the Star Boundary, but they had to trek through countless mountains and across countless rivers, passing through many dangerous obstacles in order to move between the two territories. The slightest mistake could cost them all their wealth, or even their lives.
But it was different for High Heaven Palace. With the Cross-Territory Space Array, they could casually move between two territories. With this natural advantage, they were sure to make money with this deal.
Hua Qing Si smiled, “Even if Palace Master didn’t mention it, I’ve also thought of this point before.”
“Oh? Then, if you have any thoughts, let’s hear them,” Yang Kai looked at her with interest.
Hua Qing Si said solemnly, “It is a very good idea, and will definitely be profitable, but there is one difficulty that I’m not sure Palace Master has considered.”
“Please explain,” Yang Kai accepted advice with an open mind.
“Whether there is enough manpower or not is a problem. As Palace Master knows, our High Heaven Palace does not have many proper disciples. If we were truly to do this, then we would definitely require a large amount of manpower, but compared to this, sourcing materials is an even bigger problem. Unless…”
“Unless what?”
Hua Qing Si smiled, “Unless Palace Master can find someone to help gather supplies for us.”
Yang Kai narrowed his eyes, “Like Fire Dragon Palace and the Full Sky Sect, for example! Sister Hua, you’re quite wicked!”
Hua Qing Si pouted, “They owe us so many Source Crystals anyway. It’s gracious of us to even let them pay for it in materials.”
“That’s not a bad idea,” Yang Kai smiled and nodded, “By the way, why don’t we ask Ice Heart Valley as well? Unlike us, Ice Heart Valley has deep and vast roots, so it should be easy for them to gather resources in the Northern Territory.”
“Good!”
“We also have to carefully consider what we have to buy and sell. If not, not only might we fail to make a profit, we might even suffer a loss.”
Hua Qing Si replied, “I will personally go to the Southern Territory to conduct an investigation.”
If this matter was handled properly, it would be a huge deal for High Heaven Palace’s future! Despite Yang Kai’s currently extreme level of wealth, and having both Fire Dragon Palace and Full Sky Sect owing a huge debt to the High Heaven Palace, the Sect would still need a way to support itself if he wanted it to grow in the future.
Not staying in the High Heaven Palace for long, Yang Kai returned to the Southern Territory the next day.
After a number of days, Yang Kai looked towards the continuous undulating mountain range in the distance as he travelled swiftly over.
That mountain range was Azure Sun Mountain Range where Azure Sun Temple’s headquarters was located. Although he only held an in-name disciple title within Azure Sun Temple, with Azure Sun Golden Token in his hand, Gao Xue Ting and even Wen Zi Shan treated him with importance. Having come back to the Southern Territory, it made sense to visit Azure Sun Temple.
Furthermore, Yang Kai also wanted to take a trip into the Divine Ascension Mirror to inform Tian Yan about the good news of having found the Flesh Incarnation Fruit.
Originally, he had planned to refine the Flesh Incarnation Pill personally; however, with a helper like Ji Ying working under him, Yang Kai would naturally hand this task over to him. Before leaving, Yang Kai had already left the necessary herbs behind in the High Heavens Palace, and he believed that he would be able to obtain the Flesh Incarnation Pill the next time he went back.
With the Flesh Incarnation Pill, Tian Yan would be able to mould a physical body for himself, and thus extricate himself from the fetters of the Divine Ascension Mirror. He would be able to enter the Star Boundary and become a strong ally for High Heaven Palace.
With a Great Emperor-level Master as his patron, High Heaven Palace would eventually become a Great Emperor Sect despite not being one at the moment. When that happened, its status absolutely wouldn’t be inferior to Star Soul Palace or Serene Soul Palace.
All of a sudden, Yang Kai came to a halt. Turning towards a certain direction, he furrowed his brow and called out, “Which friend is being so sneaky? Why not show yourself?”
As his voice rang out, a glow of light suddenly blossomed from the void in that direction. The dazzling brilliance forced Yang Kai to narrow his eyes, and by the time the light had dimmed down, two extraordinary silhouettes had appeared.
One of them was a middle-aged male, his face pale with no traces of facial hair. A look that was brimming with might, yet devoid of anger was present on his face. The other person was a youth who appeared to be close to Yang Kai’s age. Cutting a suave and elegant demeanour, his brow appeared like slanted swords, positioned above his twinkling star-like eyes. Standing beside each other, those two people seemed to share similar physical features, as though they were a father-son pair.
Compared to the latter, the middle-aged male had an indifferent look on his face. On the contrary, an eager, competitive spirit rose within the youth’s eyes when he looked over towards Yang Kai.
“Senior Xiao!” Yang Kai’s brow rose.
Xiao Yu Yang replied, “So it’s you, Yang Kai?”
“Indeed,” Yang Kai nodded his head before looking over to the youth and giving a faint smile, “Brother Xiao, I trust you’ve been well since the trip to the Shattered Star Sea?”
These two were members of Star Soul Palace, whom Yang Kai had recognized in a single glance.
There was no need to talk about the youth Xiao Chen, whom Yang Kai had had quite a few exchanges with and would always be by the side of Princess Lan Xu, playing the role of the protector. As for his father, Xiao Yu Yang, he was the first Emperor Realm Master Yang Kai had met after his entry into the Star Boundary. At that time, he was a Star Soul Palace Silver Star Envoy with a Second-Order Emperor Realm cultivation that made him an existence that Yang Kai needed to look up to.
After these years though, Xiao Yu Yang’s aura seemed to have grown increasingly vibrant and extraordinary, which meant that he had impressively reached the Third-Order Emperor Realm! As for Xiao Chen, his cultivation was not weak either, being at the First-Order Emperor Realm. From the look of it, Xiao Chen had benefited quite a bit since his trip to the Shattered Star Sea.
These two people had suddenly popped up here. Furthermore, they had just so happened to block Yang Kai’s path, so it was easy to see what their intentions were.
The deaths of Star Soul Palace Elder Tan Jun Hao and Deacon Wu Ming had left Star Soul Palace investigating ever since. As they continued to investigate, they had naturally ended up focusing on Yang Kai; however, the latter had been elusive in his recent movements, to the point where even a Great Emperor Sect like Star Soul Palace, with its long reach and extensive network, was still unable to get a good grasp of his location.
Suddenly, a month or so ago, they had received a message from a disciple of theirs by the name of Luo Ping, saying he spotted Yang Kai in Maplewood City.
Xiao Yu Yang proceeded to rush over without stopping. Being one of Star Soul Palace’s Elders and possessing extraordinarily high cultivation, him being dragged into this matter wasn’t because of them giving respect to Yang Kai, but rather, it was because of the information Star Soul Palace had collected about both Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming meeting their deaths at Yang Kai’s hands. This terrifying result meant that anyone lacking in cultivation would be useless against Yang Kai. Only a Third-Order Emperor Realm Master would be able to accomplish this task.
For the sake of Tan Jun Hao, the few Third-Order Emperor Realm Elders of Star Soul Palace had all been mobilized, searching for Yang Kai’s whereabouts in all directions.
Knowing that Yang Kai was a disciple of Azure Sun Temple, Xiao Yu Yang had faintly suspected that there was a possibility of Yang Kai returning to Azure Sun Temple after his sudden appearance in Maplewood City, which led him to lay in ambush here. Yang Kai’s appearance proved his decision to be correct, as he had finally managed to come face-to-face with Yang Kai after painstakingly waiting here for half a month.
After hearing Yang Kai’s words, Xia Chen grinned, “Who are you? Do I know you?”
His haughty and lofty stance gave him the appearance of having an exceedingly overwhelming superiority complex.
Having crossed paths with him several times, Yang Kai was well aware of this irksome trait of Xiao Chen’s; therefore, he did not get angry. On the contrary, he gave a faint smile and looked towards Xiao Yu Yang, “May I know why Senior Xiao had obstructed this Junior’s path?”
“You still dare to ask about the obvious?” In a fit of anger, Xiao Chen pointed his finger at Yang Kai, “Are you not clear about what you’ve done? You dare put on such a shameless act!?”
With a faint smile, Yang Kai replied, “I don’t understand what Brother Xiao is talking about.”
Xiao Chen’s expression instantly turned gloomy, “Are you really unaware, or are you just feigning ignorance?”
Not giving a damn about him anymore, Yang Kai proceeded to turn and look at Xiao Yu Yang, letting Xiao Chen continue fuming in anger.
Xiao Yu Yang stood with his hands behind his back, a calm expression present on his face. Nevertheless, he was sighing in admiration and astonishment within his heart. Before this matter had occurred, he did not know much about Yang Kai. The only thing he faintly remembered was that a Dao Source Realm Junior had refined a furnace of Extraordinary Treasure Pills in the Four Seasons Realm. That brought the person into the spotlight, and that person was precisely Yang Kai.
Other than that, Xiao Yu Yang did not know anything else about him. Therefore, he had talked about it in detail with Xiao Chen over the last few days on this matter. Only then did he discover how outstanding this youth was. From what he could tell, every matter that Yang Kai had done was exceedingly hard to accomplish. Although his son was a dragon among men, he still somewhat paled in comparison to Yang Kai.
At this moment, Xiao Yu Yang’s appraisal of Yang Kai rose another notch.
In front of an Elder of Star Soul Palace possessing a Third-Order Emperor Realm cultivation, this First-Order Emperor Realm Junior showed not even a trace of intimidation or fear. On the contrary, he continued to chat in a calm and relaxed manner.
Did he really kill Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming? Deep feelings of doubt surged within Xiao Yu Yang’s heart. With Yang Kai’s current level of strength, and with the fact that both Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming weren’t just ordinary Masters, how could that be possible? How could they have died at this Junior’s hand?
However, during the investigations conducted by Star Soul Palace, there were over twenty Emperor Realm Masters that testified to this effect. Even if Tan Jun Han and Wu Ming’s deaths were not caused by Yang Kai, it was absolutely related to him.
“Tan Jun Hao, Wu Ming!” Xiao Yu Yang only spoke those two names as he shot a deep gaze right at Yang Kai’s eyes, seemingly wanting to bore right to the depths of his soul to see any shift or sliver of fluctuation present within.
Raising his brow, Yang Kai replied, “So, it’s about that matter… Yes, if Senior Xiao is investigating the matter of those two people, this Junior can inform Senior Xiao that I was the one who killed them.”
He admitted this in an exceedingly frank manner, with not a single trace of wanting to conceal this fact.
“Bullshit!” Xiao Chen snapped back with a look of contempt and ridicule, an obvious indication of his disbelief.
“It’s said that you had an impressively strong Monster King by your side at the time, yes?” Xiao Yu Yang deliberately pointed out, “Where is that Monster King who acted?”
Yang Kai shook his head, “The Monster King wasn’t there at the time.”
Xiao Yu Yang said in a deep tone, “Yang Kai, you’re a talented youth, and this King doesn’t wish to cause difficulties for you. Tell this King the location of that Monster King, before following me back to Star Soul Palace.”
Yang Kai narrowed his eyes, “Does Senior Xiao believe that Tan Jun Han and Wu Ming met their deaths at the hands of that Monster King?”
“Is there any other possibility?”
Yang Kai burst into laughter and shook his head incessantly. Never did he imagine that no one would believe the truth that he had just stated. After mumbling to himself, his expression turned solemn before he replied, “Being an Elder of Star Soul Palace, Tan Jun Han represented Star Soul Palace and the Bright Moon Great Emperor. It was his solemn duty to protect and guide us Southern Territory cultivators; however, in Flowing Shadow City, he engaged in a plethora of perverse actions and used despicable methods to control various Emperor Realm Masters present at the time, before inciting them to attack this Junior all in order to kill me and pilfer my treasures. This Junior responded in kind and killed him, which can only be considered helping Star Soul Palace clean up their trash. This Junior doesn’t need the gratitude of the Great Emperor or Star Soul Palace and is fine with you all not trying to find trouble for me. Yet, Senior Xiao has obstructed my path today! If this is Star Soul Palace’s attitude, this Junior… feels extremely disappointed!”
“It’s not your place to decide about the matters of our Star Soul Palace!” Xiao Chen snorted coldly.
Xiao Yu Yang nodded and added, “Our Star Soul Palace has done a thorough investigation into the details of the matter. Tan Jun Hao was inhumane, oppressive, and tyrannical, damaging the reputation of our Star Soul Palace with his actions. There isn’t anything worth pitying about his death. If he was really killed by you, the matter would be confined between you and our Star Soul Palace; however, if he was killed at the hands of a Monster King… it would be a different story, do you understand?”
Yang Kai gave an impatient reply, “The Monster King did not take action. Didn’t those Emperors inform you of this?”
Xiao Yu Yang replied, “They’ve mentioned it. However, it is really hard to believe their words. Therefore, I need you to follow me back to Star Soul Palace. This Xiao will guarantee that no one will treat you unfairly. The only thing you need to tell this Xiao is the location of the Monster King.”
Yang Kai’s eyes narrowed, “I’m unable to agree with your request, Senior Xiao.”
“You don’t believe me…” Xiao Yu Yang’s forehead started to wrinkle up slightly.
Yang Kai replied, “I’m not close at all to Senior Xiao, so how can I trust you?”
“It’s a waste of breath to continue this discussion. Father, there’s no need to continue this nonsense with him. Let me take action and take him down.” Filled with eagerness, Xiao Chen could no longer contain himself. Drawing his sword, a metallic hum accompanied the blossoming of Sword Qi as he hurtled towards Yang Kai with a cold snort, “You think you’re extraordinary after being breaking through to the Emperor Realm, huh? Let me show you today the disparity between you and me!”
Emperor Pressure radiated out as Sword Intent filled the skies. The humming sounds continued to ring out as Xiao Chen’s expression turned solemn, before he growled, “The fragrance of plum blossoms wafts out from the snow, and the crescent moon reflects in the mirror to shine across the skies!”
His first action was to unleash an exceedingly powerful killing move. Furthermore, his Sword Intent had a beautiful appearance, causing people to be dazzled by it.
Yang Kai chuckled in response, “I was thinking something similar!”
Assuming a casual stance, Yang Kai sent a light palm towards the incoming Sword Wave.
Xiao Yu Yang felt a sense of satisfaction within his heart after seeing his son unleash his sword move; however, his expression changed drastically upon seeing Yang Kai’s palm.
Being a Third-Order Emperor Realm Master, Xiao Yu Yang’s vision was far higher than a greenhouse flower like Xiao Chen’s, so with a single look, he was able to tell that Xiao Chen was completely outmatched by Yang Kai.
Shock filled his heart as he knew that their respective breakthroughs to the Emperor Realm after their trip to the Shattered Sea had occurred within a short period from the other. Yet, the gulf between their strength was akin to night and day.
“Retreat, Chen’er!” Xiao Yu Yang roared out.
Nevertheless, it was a pity that he had spoken too late. A palm came extending through the flurry of sword lights, smashing through them as if they were rotten twigs. The screen of swords instantly withered, turning Xiao Chen’s Sword Intent uncontrollably chaotic in the process.
Shock bloomed across Xiao Chen’s face as he hastily pulled back in retreat. Nevertheless, like a shadow, the incoming palm travelled along his path of retreat, moving threateningly close to his body.
Right at that instant, a gale came whipping from the side as Xiao Yu Yang was forced to take action to save his son.
With a tap of his foot, Yang Kai’s body came to an instant stop, right as a gale whipped past his fingertip.
Moving swiftly, Xiao Yu Yang had a solemn look on his face as he stood between Yang Kai and Xiao Chen, “Yang Kai, this King doesn’t want to be oppressive to the young, and doesn’t wish to take action against you. Would it be possible for you to cooperate?”
Yang Kai smirked, “That’s not possible!”
Xiao Yu Yang gave a soft sigh, “Since that is the case, pardon my offence.”
As his voice rang out, he extended his hand and made a grasping motion towards Yang Kai. Immediately, it appeared as though the entire surrounding space had been locked, as a buzzing sound started to ring out from the void.
Nevertheless, Yang Kai did not evade or dodge Xiao Yu Yang’s grab; instead, he replied indifferently, “Senior Xiao, it isn’t because this Junior looks down on you, but I’m afraid that you’re unable to keep this Junior here. The mountains and rivers always come together in the end, so let’s meet in the future.”
Space Principles started to ripple out, before Yang Kai’s body suddenly flickered, leaving behind only an afterimage in its place.
Upon grasping through the afterimage, Xiao Yu Yang’s face changed slightly as he growled, “A Spatial Ability!”
He turned and looked around; however, Yang Kai’s presence had totally disappeared, and no one could tell where he had run off to. Despite releasing his powerful Divine Sense, Xiao Yu Yang was unexpectedly unable to grasp Yang Kai’s aura, causing his expression to sink.
Originally, he believed that Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming’s deaths were due to the Monster King taking action; however, with what had just happened, the possibility of Yang Kai being the culprit had just become slightly higher. Being able to freely teleport was by itself an extraordinary skill that could overturn the most dangerous of situations, and it was also mentioned in the reports that this boy was in possession of the Yuan Ding Great Emperor’s Mountains and Rivers Bell.
That was an Ancient Exotic Artifact! No one knew exactly how powerful that Mountains and Rivers Bell was, but it was not to be underestimated.
Turning around, he noticed Xiao Chen standing slumped over there. The hand that held the sword was trembling incessantly, while an ashen and ugly expression was present on his face.
Losing to Yang Kai’s move was a huge blow for Xiao Chen. Earlier, despite having just broken through to the Emperor Realm, he had always assumed that no one could rival him in this realm. He was a Core Disciple of Star Soul Palace, and moreover, he was Xiao Yu Yang’s son! Having been nurtured since young, he was the best of the best within Star Soul Palace. In fact, he was well known to be an invincible existence among cultivators in the same realm.
However, at this moment, this sense of superiority that had accompanied him since young had been shattered apart by Yang Kai’s palm, something that was impossible for him to endure.
“Victory and defeat are commonplace in battle. Rather than dwelling in this moment of defeat, why not think of how to increase your strength.” Xiao Yu Yang said in an indifferent tone.
A tremor shook through Xiao Chen’s body. Finally coming back to his senses, he quickly replied, “Many thanks for your guidance, Father.”
“Let’s go.” Xiao Yu Yang waved his hand.
“Where to?” Xiao Chen asked.
“Azure Sun Temple,” Xiao Yu Yang replied, before taking the lead and flying off.
Having laid an ambush here, they had managed to run into Yang Kai. This was a clear indication of Yang Kai’s motives; he was headed to Azure Sun Temple. Since they weren’t able to hold him here, they would have to head to Azure Sun Temple to find him.
Regardless of the circumstances, they still needed to settle this matter.
…
“Halt!”
Not long after escaping, Yang Kai came face-to-face with two new figures. The lead figure shouted out loudly as he obstructed Yang Kai’s path of travel.
Having entered Azure Sun Temple many times before, Yang Kai naturally knew its rules. Immediately, he retrieved his Azure Sun Golden Token and tossed it to the two disciples on guard.
Catching the token, the lead figure’s face changed, “Azure Sun Golden Token?”
Only the few Core Disciples of Azure Sun Temple had the qualifications to hold this golden token. Although they were all disciples of Azure Sun Temple, there was a great disparity in their status compared to those Core Disciples.
They took another look at Yang Kai, whose face was extremely foreign to them, and did not recognise him as his profile looked nothing like one of the few Core Disciples they had seen among the Sect.
The lead disciple proceeded to shout out in anger, “How deceitful of you, daring to pose as a disciple of our temple! Where did you get this golden token from!?”
After those words rang out, the two disciples immediately summoned their artifacts and locked their auras onto Yang Kai, appearing to be ready to take action at any moment. Yang Kai was an in-name disciple of Azure Sun Temple, while this golden token was given to him by Gao Xue Ting back in Maplewood City many years ago, so it was not a widely known fact among the temple. Therefore, many disciples didn’t know about Yang Kai at all. At this moment, after seeing a foreign person holding a Core Disciple token in his hand, it was natural for them to raise their guard.
Yang Kai replied, “Elder Gao gave me this token. You two can ask Elder Gao or the other Elders about this. Just tell them that Yang Kai has arrived, and they will naturally give you an explanation.”
“Yang Kai!” The lead disciple frowned, shooting a look to his Junior Brother by his side before nodding his head and replying, “Wait a moment.”
He proceeded to retrieve a communication artifact, and from the looks of it, was contacting his higher-ups to report this matter.
A moment later, the communication artifact shook, and sending his Divine Sense into it, a strange look immediately appeared on the face of the lead disciple.
The Elders had replied that the token was genuine, and the person by the name of Yang Kai was an actual disciple of their temple.
“I apologize for the earlier offence. Please, Senior Brother!” Receiving the Elder’s command, the disciple on guard duty naturally didn’t dare to obstruct Yang Kai anymore. Moving his body to the side, he said, “Elder Gao said to find her on Myriad Saints Peak.”
Yang Kai nodded his head and retrieved his golden token. As he moved past the two disciples on guard duty, he suddenly thought of something and said, “That’s right. There will be two fellows coming here later. Think of a way to obstruct them for a while.”
“Yes!” Despite not knowing any details, the two disciples immediately acknowledged his command.
Myriad Saints Peak was the main peak within Azure Sun Temple. With routine ease, Yang Kai travelled towards it, and as he did so, he noticed a white figure standing in front of a distant palace, looking right in his direction.
The figure appeared just like a white lotus, pure and unstained. Her accompanying dress accentuated her elegant figure. Furthermore, there was another small and unassuming figure standing by her side.
From a distance away, Yang Kai revealed a faint smile and shot over.
As he approached, the pure white figure suddenly raised her hand, before a circular mirror with a sun-like appearance rose from behind her head. Just like a rising radiant sun, the temperature of the surrounding air proceeded to shoot up.
Emperor Artifact, Radiant Sun Mirror!
Incomparably hot beams of light shot out from the mirror, drawing beautiful arcs in the air before appearing right before Yang Kai in the blink of an eye.
Yang Kai gasped in shock before summoning his Myriads Sword. Unleashing a defensive move, a protective sword barrier appeared before him.
*Chi chi chi chi…*
The scorching rays of light were blocked by the sword barrier, unable to hit their mark, though Yang Kai was forced to retreat as a result.
After dispelling those rays of light, the figures before him flickered, before Gao Xue Ting suddenly appeared right before him. Extending a slender, jade white hand, she formed a fist, exposing her middle finger slightly, before giving a knock towards Yang Kai’s head.
Not daring to evade, Yang Kai had no choice but to take the hit. With a dull thud ringing from his head, he felt as though his entire being had grown shorter by a head.
“Elder Gao…” Yang Kai revealed a look of injustice as he rubbed the place where he had been struck.
Gao Xue Ting gave a cold snort, before casting a sidelong gaze at him, “So, now your wings have grown hard, you dare take action against me?”
“When did that happen?” Yang Kai gave a wronged look, “Just now it was an instinctual reaction…”
“Do you know why I hit you?” Questioned Gao Xue Ting.
Yang Kai grinned, “Because I’ve not come back for quite some time, causing you to miss me.”
Gao Xue Ting snorted, “I don’t care whether you’ve come back or not. However, after causing such a big ruckus and encountering such great danger, why did you not seek help from the temple? Do you feel no sense of belonging with the temple, or do you see yourself as an outsider?”
Yang Kai immediately knew she was referring to the matter with Star Soul Palace, causing a burst of warmth to fill his heart and a smile to form on his lips.
“Stop grinning and get down for me!” Gao Xue Ting extended her hand, grabbed onto Yang Kai’s ear, and pulled him down towards Myriad Saint Peak.
“Pain, pain, pain, pain…” With his head twisted while still holding on to the Myriads Sword in his hand, Yang Kai was led about by Gao Xue Ting. Even though he was able to stand up against Great Emperors and Divine Spirits, he didn’t dare to muster any resistance at all. Nevertheless, he felt as though his ear was about to detach from his head, causing him to scream and plead, although his protests fell on deaf ears.
Only after arriving at Myriad Saints Peak did Gao Xue Ting release her grip, though she followed up with a slap towards the back of Yang Kai’s head.
Yang Kai staggered forward, though he did not dare to utter any complaints.
Raising his head, he spotted Wen Zi Shen, leading him to hastily move forward, “You’re looking well, Temple Master Wen!”
The corners of Wen Zi Shan’s mouth twitched as he looked towards the Heavens, appearing as though he did not hear anything at all. Nevertheless, he proceeded to send a Divine Sense transmission towards Yang Kai stealthily, “Little Xue Ting is very angry. You better quell her anger before talking. If not, this Temple Master doesn’t dare to talk to you.”
Yang Kai’s face turned black while a look of contempt flashed across his eyes.
Turning his head around, he looked towards the few people standing to the side. Vice Temple Master Qiu Ran, Elders Chen Qian, Di Rong, and You Kun; all of them evaded his gaze, as though they had not seen him looking over at all.
Gao Xue Ting was the only exception as she continued to stare coldly at him. Her gaze was sharp and penetrating as a sword, seemingly wanting to turn him into a pincushion.
Yang Kai obediently walked towards Gao Xue Ting and lowered his head, “Elder Gao, this disciple has made a mistake. Please mete out your punishment, Elder Gao.”
Gao Xue Ting replied in an indifferent tone, “You made no mistake, so why does this Elder have to punish you? That’s right, I still have to thank you. If not for you saving me that time, this Elder might not have been able to extricate herself from that situation.”
After saying that, she proceeded to bow towards Yang Kai.
Yang Kai was scared stiff by her actions, leading him to leap aside.
Turning towards his direction, Gao Xue Ting gave another bow.
A crying expression appeared on Yang Kai’s face as he said, “What do you want, Elder Gao? Whatever it is, I’ll accept it, okay!”
Gao Xue Ting immediately raised her head and shot a scorching gaze at Yang Kai, “You better keep to your word! En, this Elder will not put you in a difficult spot. As long as you agree to this matter, this Elder will forgive you this time.”
“Please speak.” Yang Kai’s eyes lit up.
“Become an Elder of the temple.”
Yang Kai’s face immediately turned serious as he spoke out in a solemn tone, “Elder Gao, this…”
“You dare refuse?” With a flick of her hand, Gao Xue Ting aimed her sword towards Yang Kai’s throat and growled, “Let this Elder see if you dare to reject this Elder’s personal request!”
Yang Kai’s entire body turned stiff, not daring to move a muscle. A drop of cold sweat rolled down his forehead as he replied with a serious expression, “This Disciple was just about to say that he… accepts this request.”
“En, a promising young man!” A smile curled up from the corner of Gao Xue Ting’s mouth as she sheathed her sword.
Only after all of these antics had finished did Vice Temple Master Qiu Ran and the various other Elders present step forward with grins on their faces, cupping their fists as they proceeded to greet the future Elder Yang.
With a beaming smile, Wen Zi Shan said, “Good, good. Our temple has a new Elder! That’s something worthy to be celebrated! This Temple Master has made the decision to organize a Grand Canonization Ceremony to commence in five days. We will quickly make an announcement to the world.”
A tremor shook through Yang Kai’s body as he hastily interjected, “There’s really no need for this, Temple Master. As of now, this Disciple…”
Before he could finish his sentence, a grinning Wen Zi Shan had already patted his shoulders, “There’s no need to say anymore. I know.”
Yang Kai opened his mouth, though all of the words he was about to say turned into a sigh. He had killed Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming, and although there was a justifiable reason behind his actions, he had gone against a mighty power which was Star Soul Palace. Once he became an Elder of Azure Sun Temple, it would surely bring them trouble.
It was alright for him to hide and evade this matter, but why would Wen Zi Shan want to organize a Grand Canonization Ceremony about his appointment to the position of Elder? Wasn’t this a clear indication of wanting to redirect fire towards the temple?
Yang Kai felt touched, and uneasy at the same time. If he really brought a disaster to the temple, he would feel horrible. Nevertheless, despite clearly knowing the repercussions of his actions, Wen Zi Shan obviously wanted to use the might of the temple to protect Yang Kai.
Gao Xue Ting chimed in from the side, “Once any of the temple’s Disciples is promoted to the Emperor Realm, they will become an Elder of the sect, and thereby obtain the authority of an Elder. That was the case with Xia Sheng, so there’s no need to feel any burden over it.”
Yang Kai scratched his head and replied, “There’s a matter that I’ve to inform all of you. Recently, this Disciple founded a Sect of his own…”
“Huh?” Wen Zi Shan exchanged glances with Gao Xue Ting, both of them noticing the look of surprise within each other’s eyes. The various Elders present also gawked in response.
“As of now, this Disciple can technically be considered a Sect Master; therefore, I’m afraid that there will be some conflict with me becoming an Elder of the temple.”
Wen Zi Shan nodded his head in agreement, though Gao Xue Ting had a look of suspicion on her face as she asked, “You’re not lying to us, right? Just to avoid taking up this Elder position?”
Yang Kai hastily replied, “How would I dare to do so? This is really the truth.”
Gao Xue Ting frowned, “Although you’re an Emperor now, and possess the qualifications to establish a Sect, you’re still quite young. Diving into such matters will not be beneficial to your future. As of now, your main priority should be to increase your cultivation.”
“Many thanks, Elder Gao, for your concern. This Disciple also understands my priorities; however, there is a reason behind the need for this Disciple to establish an independent Sect,” Yang Kai replied while nodding his head.
Gao Xue Ting sighed, “Since you’ve already founded your Sect, you can’t dissolve it. How about this? Let your sect ally with the temple. If there’s anything you need help with, the temple will be able to extend a helping hand. In fact, the temple can send some people over to help you and relieve your burden in some of the routine affairs.”
Yang Kai smiled faintly, “There are already people assigned to take care of Sect matters, so there’s no need for me to worry about them.”
“That’s good. You’re a smart person, so you should know that one’s own strength is the foundation of everything,” Gao Xue Ting turned silent for an instant, before continuing, “However, since you’re now a Sect Master, it is indeed not as suitable for you to become an Elder of the temple. How about this? We shall confer you the title of High-Rank Guest Elder. What do you think of that, Temple Master?”
Wen Zhi Shan smiled, “Whatever you say, Little Xue Ting.”
Although a High-Rank Guest Elder was also an Elder position, there was much more freedom in that role, including freedom of movement. It was somewhat similar to Yang Kai’s previous position as an in-name disciple, just higher in rank.
“That’s right. What’s the name of your Sect, and where is it located?” Gao Xue Ting asked.
Qiu Ran, Cheng Qian and the others looked over towards Yang Kai with curious looks on their faces.
“High Heaven Palace, and it is situated in the Northern Territory,” Yang Kai replied with a grin.
“The Northern Territory, so far away…” Gao Xue Ting frowned. Azure Sun Temple was located in the Southern Territory, meaning that there was a distance of over a billion kilometres between them and High Heaven Palace. This meant that even an alliance would not be of much use as Azure Sun Temple was too far to provide any aid should anything serious happen to High Heaven Palace.
“How’s the strength of your Sect, and how many disciples do you have?”
An embarrassed look appeared on Yang Kai’s face as he looked at Gao Xue Ting, before speaking out in a meek tone, “Does Elder Gao want to hear the truth… or…?”
“I’d like to see if you dare say anything false!” Gao Xue Ting’s beautiful eyes shot a glare back at him.
The corners of Yang Kai’s mouth twitched, before replying, “We don’t have many disciples as of now, only about a hundred so far.”
“A hundred people…” Gao Xue Ting nodded lightly. It was not an indication of her looking down on Yang Kai’s Sect, as after all, having just broken through to the Emperor Realm, the Sect Yang Kai established would definitely be a small one at best. Being able to gather over a hundred disciples was already extremely good. A Sect was somewhat similar to a rolling snowball, where it would take a lot of time to become big and strong.
“As for strength… the cultivations of the disciples are quite varied. For Emperors… there are six excluding me.”
“What?” The various Elders present gasped in shock.
“There are six others? Doesn’t that mean that there are seven Emperors in total?”
“Are you sure that there’s only over a hundred people in your Sect?”
Some of the Elders were immediately unable to remain calm, with even Wen Zi Shan’s eyes snapping wide in response.
A Sect with only a few more than a hundred people actually had seven Emperor Realm Masters among its ranks? What kind of Sect was this? Wasn’t that a bit too terrifying? Even with its ten thousand or so disciples, Azure Sun Temple only had about a dozen Emperors among its ranks.
Gao Xue Ting was filled with shock, as she had originally assumed that Yang Kai’s newly established Sect would be small and weak at best. However, from the looks of it, his Sect already appeared to be somewhat extraordinary.
“Of those six… what are their cultivation realms?”
Yang Kai scratched his head and replied, “There’s a First-Order Emperor Realm Head Manager that helps me handle the Sect’s affairs. There’s also a First-Order Emperor Array Master, a Second-Order Emperor Realm Emperor Alchemist…”
Sii…
A wave of successive hisses rang out, as everyone present on Myriad Saints Peak shot a look at Yang Kai as though they had just seen a ghost.
A small Sect with only around a hundred disciples being overseen by seven Emperors was more than enough to shock the hearts of people; however, after hearing Yang Kai say that there was actually an Emperor Array Master and an Emperor Alchemist among them…
How was that possible? Even Azure Sun Temple did not have their own Emperor Array Master and Emperor Alchemist! Only those Great Emperor Sects were capable of matching the lineup of a Sect like that.
“What about the other three?” Gao Xue Ting continued probing, though shock had already filled her eyes.
Yang Kai lowered his head and replied in a somewhat apologetic tone, “The other three… are Monster Kings.”
Dumbstruck looks immediately appeared on everyone’s faces.
Monster Kings… furthermore, three of them!
Only members of the Monster Race with strength capable of rivalling that of Third-Order Emperors possessed the qualifications to be hailed as Monster Kings. In other words, the might of any Monster King was not one bit inferior to that of Azure Sun Temple’s Temple Master, Wen Zi Shan.
It was precisely due to Wen Zi Shan’s presence that Azure Sun Temple was capable of being ranked as a top Sect in the Southern Territory, rivalling Orthodoxy Temple and Heavenly Martial Holy Land, as both of them were led by Third-Order Emperors as well.
Yet, there were three such existences in High Heaven Palace which was established by Yang Kai not long ago.
Other than the lack of a Great Emperor to assume command and a slightly inferior number of Emperors, how was this Sect inferior to any of the Great Emperor Sects? If such a Sect was to develop and grow stronger, its power and influence might eclipse all of the other great forces within the Star Boundary, with the exception of those Great Emperor Sects.
Finally recovering from her shock, Gao Xue Ting suddenly spoke out in a solemn tone, “You have to be vigilant when dealing with races other than our own. Yang Kai, how are you able to control those three Monster Kings? How are they willing to listen to your commands?”
Wen Zi Shan chimed in with a serious look on his face, “That’s right, you have to be careful about this.”
Yang Kai nodded his head and replied, “Disciple naturally understands this.”
“You’re not a reckless person, so as you have already made this decision, there is no need for us to discuss it further.” Wen Zi Shan gave a gentle nod, before giving a sudden grin, “However, from the looks of it, your High Heaven Palace does actually possess the qualifications to form an alliance with our temple. The only issue would be the long distance separating us. Such a pity, such a pity. That’s right, since your High Heavens Palace has such a strong background, you must have chosen a good place to establish your foundation. The speed of development of a Sect is tied tightly with its location, so make sure to not make an impulsive decision when doing so.”
“Disciple actually occupied other people’s territory when founding his Sect, so there isn’t much to worry about this matter,” Yang Kai replied with a meaningful smile.
“Oh?” Wen Zi Shan raised his brow in response and asked, “Which Sect did you steal from? Although this Sect Master doesn’t know much about the Sects in the Northern Territory, I’ve heard of a few.”
“Seeking Passion Sect!”
Wen Zi Shan’s expression instantly turned into one that was a sight to behold as he gawked blankly at Yang Kai. This was accompanied by the slack jaws present on many of the Elders’ faces.
All of them naturally knew about Seeking Passion Sect, as it was one of the top Sects of the Northern Territory. In terms of status, it was on the same level as their Azure Sun Temple within the Southern Territory.
Yang Kai had actually snatched away the domain of Seeking Passion Sect and established his own Sect there! In other words, Seeking Passion Sect had definitely been wiped out.
Nevertheless, looking from another perspective, with the strength of force behind Yang Kai, it was not impossible for High Heaven Palace to wipe out the Seeking Passion Sect.
“Not bad, not bad, the Seeking Passion Sect’s domain definitely won’t be lacking…” Cold sweat formed on Wen Zi Shan’s forehead as he discovered that he had greatly underestimated Yang Kai. In the past, he had only assumed that the latter was brimming with potential and therefore used various methods to get Yang Kai to join Azure Sun Temple, leading to the latter’s status as an in-name disciple.
However, after just a few years of separation, this in-name disciple had actually managed to accomplish such a world-shaking matter. If not for the exceedingly far distance between the two territories, news of this matter might have already propagated across the Southern Territory, shocking the entire Star Boundary.
“Okay, enough casual talk. The Grand Canonization Ceremony will be held in five days, so there are still many things to do.” Gao Xue Ting changed the topic.
She did not dare to continue asking, as she was afraid she might hear even more shocking news if she did so.
Right at this moment, a frown suddenly appeared on Gao Xue Ting’s forehead. Retrieving her communication artifact out, she sent her Divine Sense into it, before raising her head to say, “Temple Master, Xiao Yu Yang is here.”
Wen Zi Shan’s eyes narrowed, “He’s quite quick!”
Yang Kai coughed and spoke up at this moment, “I actually bumped into him along the way here, though I shook him off. He might be here from chasing after me.”
Wen Zi Shan nodded his head and said, “I understand. Little Xue Ting, bring him away for a while.”
“En,” Gao Xue Ting nodded, before ordering Yang Kai. “Follow me.”
Yang Kai cupped his hands towards the other Elders present before flying away with Gao Xue Ting.
Although he was not afraid of Xiao Yu Yang, it definitely wouldn’t do any good if he were to meet with the latter. Therefore, Yang Kai decided to simply disappear for a while. Nevertheless, Yang Kai felt somewhat apologetic dragging Azure Sun Temple into this mess.
After a short while, Gao Xue Ting brought Yang Kai to her Purple Bamboo Peak. A vast forest of purple bamboo stretched across this peak, shaking lightly in the wind.
Present on the large and majestic Purple Bamboo Peak was a lone structure, appearing exceedingly desolate within this environment. This seemed to coincide with Gao Xue Ting’s stoic character.
Within Azure Sun Temple, every single Elder was granted their own Spirit Peak; Purple Bamboo Peak was Gao Xue Ting’s domain.
If Yang Kai were to be conferred the title of Elder in Azure Sun Temple, he would also be bestowed with the same level of treatment; however, since the Grand Canonization Ceremony would only be held after a few days, Yang Kai could only live on Purple Bamboo Peak in the interim.
The peak was peaceful and quiet, without a single servant present. Gao Xue Ting arranged for Yang Kai to reside in the guest residence, advising him to not run about recklessly, before turning around to leave.
“Elder Gao!” All of a sudden, Yang Kai suddenly shouted out to stop her.
Gao Xue Ting turned back.
“Disciple needs to request Elder Gao’s assistance for a matter,” Yang Kai said in a serious tone.
“What’s the matter?”
“I wish to take a trip into the Divine Ascension Mirror!”
“You want to enter the Divine Ascension Mirror?” A frown appeared on Gao Xue Ting’s face, “Why?”
The Divine Ascension Mirror was Azure Sun Temple’s greatest secret. Previously, Yang Kai was able to enter the Divine Ascension Mirror world only due to the numerous Star Seals he had brought back to the temple, a great merit that warranted his entry. Now, however, despite being a quasi-Elder of Azure Sun Temple, with the qualifications to enter the Divine Ascension Mirror, he still couldn’t simply go in there as he wished. Therefore, it was natural for Gao Xue Ting to want a thorough explanation for his request.
After a moment of silence, Yang Kai did not conceal anything and proceeded to tell her about his agreement with Tian Yan.
Gao Xue Ting gasped in shock, “You actually managed to make such an agreement with that Senior during your last trip to the Divine Ascension Mirror?”
“Yes,” Yang Kai nodded his head. “I agreed to it without much thought back then; however, after so many years, I should give him a proper reply.”
Gao Xue Ting replied in a slightly absent-minded manner, “I never expected you to have such great fortune… since you’ve made such an agreement, you should honour it. However, the Fleshly Body Pill isn’t easy to obtain.”
“I’ve already obtained the Fleshly Body Pill,” Yang Kai replied with a faint smile.
Gao Xue Ting’s expression shook, “You have?”
Yang Kai smiled in response, “I’ve already acquired the required materials and in a few days, my High Heaven Palace’s Emperor Alchemist should finish refining the Fleshly Body Pill.”
“What are the chances of success?” Gao Xue Ting asked in a somewhat impatient voice. Although this was the first time she had heard about the Fleshly Body Pill, she knew that such a pill would definitely not be easy to refine. Even an Emperor Alchemist might not be able to guarantee a one hundred percent refining success rate.
Yang Kai replied, “I forgot to inform Elder Gao, my High Heaven Palace’s Emperor Alchemist is the Fifth Disciple of the Wondrous Pill Great Emperor.”
Gao Xue Ting was instantly dumbstruck, taking quite a while before pushing out a shocked reply, “You managed to poach the Wondrous Pill Great Emperor’s Legacy Disciple to be your Sect’s Chief Alchemist?”
Such boldness! Originally, it was already shocking that Yang Kai’s High Heaven Palace had an Emperor Alchemist amongst their ranks; however, Gao Xue Ting had never expected that this Emperor Alchemist would actually have such an illustrious background. That was the Fifth Legacy Disciple of the Wondrous Pill Great Emperor! Even Third-Order Emperor Realm Masters would have to show great respect to such a person.
The matter that puzzled Gao Xue Ting the most was, why would the Wondrous Pill Great Emperor consent to this?
Nevertheless, with the Wondrous Pill Great Emperor’s Disciple personally taking action, the possibility of a refining failure was quite minimized.
“It isn’t too difficult if you wish to enter the Divine Ascension Mirror today; however, at this moment…” All of a sudden, a frown appeared on Gao Xue Ting’s face.
“What happened?” Yang Kai asked.
Gao Xue Ting replied, “Since you’re not an outsider, it’s alright for you to know about this. Right now, there are people currently using the Divine Ascension Mirror, and it is imperative to not disturb them unless absolutely necessary. Therefore, it is somewhat difficult if you wish to enter the Divine Ascension Mirror at this moment.”
A look of surprise appeared on Yang Kai’s face.
Earlier, the people he had met on top of Myriad Saints Peak included all of Azure Sun Temple’s higher-ups, so who could be using the Divine Ascension Mirror right now? Furthermore, they weren’t to be disturbed? It seemed as though the person using the Divine Ascension Mirror had an extraordinary status.
Even thinking along these lines though, Yang Kai was not able to identify this person.
“I’ll talk to Temple Master about this, to see if we are able to devise a win-win solution to this. If it really isn’t possible… you should just wait here for a while. In any case, it has been so many years since your agreement with that Senior and you don’t have the Fleshly Body Pill on you right now anyways.”
“Okay,” Yang Kai nodded. With the situation as it was at the moment, he had no choice but to agree.
He proceeded to ask about Xiao Bai Yi and Murong Xiao Xiao’s current situations, and found out that they had both entered retreat after returning from the Shattered Star Sea. Currently, they had yet to show any signs of coming out, so Yang Kai had to cancel his plan of catching up with them.
Those two were Core Disciples of Azure Sun Temple, future pillars of the Sect. Nevertheless, they were just a little lacking when compared to Xia Sheng, as the latter was able to break through to the Emperor Realm inside the Shattered Star Sea. In comparison, Xiao Bai Yi and Murong Xiao Xiao were unable to do so. Nevertheless, they had still reaped substantial benefits there, making them develop a will to not leave their closed-door cultivation until they broke through to the Emperor Realm.
After Gao Xue Ting departed, Yang Kai proceeded to sit down. Extending his hand, a large chest made of exquisitely crafted metal appeared before him.
The Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor!
Since he had purchased this Mid-Rank Emperor Grade Artifact Armor from Violet Source Auction, Yang Kai hadn’t had the time for a detailed inspection of it until this moment.
Extending his hand, Yang Kai opened the case and began gently brushing the Artifact Armor. In an instant, a furious roar suddenly rang out from within, before black Qi started to rapidly gush out from the pieces that made up the Artifact Armour. Coalescing together into a black mass, the light formed into a black flood dragon that stared sharply towards Yang Kai.
“Ah…” Raising his head to look at the illusionary phantom, a grin spread across Yang Kai’s face.
According to the descriptions from Violet Source Chamber of Commerce, this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor was created from the scales of a Black Flood Dragon. Black Flood Dragons were extremely rare existences, and were renowned for their formidable defensive strength. During this armour’s refinement, the Black Flood Dragon’s Monster Core should have been fused into it, resulting in a wisp of the Black Flood Dragon’s Soul being sealed into the Artifact Armor.
In other words, this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor seemed to possess an Artifact Spirit.
An artifact like this that was refined from the body parts of a powerful Monster Beast was capable of fusing perfectly with the Monster Core of its origin Monster Beast.
This wasn’t mentioned by the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce. Yang Kai guessed that they were afraid that this fact would affect their customers’ valuation of this item. Although an Artifact with an Artifact Spirit would generally fetch a much higher price, it would also depend on what type of Artifact Spirit it possessed.
The Artifact Spirit of this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor was the Soul of a Black Flood Dragon. Despite only being a Flood Dragon, it still possessed the bloodline of the Dragon Clan. Therefore, most people would not be able to subdue an Artifact Spirit like this.
A good example would be the sudden appearance of the Black Flood Dragon’s Soul the instant Yang Kai made contact with the Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor. If the user didn’t refine this Artifact Spirit, making it recognise them as its owner, it would be utterly impossible for them to access the full might of this Artifact Armor.
The gigantic Black Flood Dragon Artifact Spirit appeared almost corporeal as it shot a disdainful look at Yang Kai, just like how one would look at an ant.
However, in the next instant, a suppressive dragon roar rang out from the ant-like figure before it. Golden light blossomed, before the Source Strength of the Golden Divine Dragon erupted mightily from Yang Kai, manifesting in a giant golden dragon far larger than the Black Flood Dragon Artifact Spirit behind Yang Kai’s head.
At this moment, the Black Flood Dragon, a dead object that didn’t possess any consciousness, unexpectedly revealed a sense of dread on its face, while its raised head drooped a little.
As the aura of the Golden Divine Dragon erupted, the Black Flood Dragon subconsciously shrank back into the chest.
The strength of bloodline suppression within the Dragon Clan was a strange and mysterious sight to behold; it was a terrifying oppression that no other race could fathom.
A good example would be when Li Jiao, a Third-Order Emperor Realm Master, was unable to muster even an ounce of resistance against Zhu Qing. No matter how powerful they became, any existence with the bloodline of the Dragon Clan would have no choice but to be shackled by this unbreakable fetter.
Against any other ordinary Third-Order Emperor, Zhu Qing would still be able to obtain victory in a fight, though it would not be an easy fight. However, she would be able to reap Li Jiao’s life with ease.
“Afraid?” Yang Kai revealed a villainous grin, shooting a sinister look at the Artifact Spirit as he said, “If you’re afraid, scram back and let me use you at will. If not, I’ll erase your Soul!”
No one knew if the Black Flood Dragon Artifact Spirit actually understood words or not; however, right as Yang Kai’s words rang out, it retreated and fused back into the Artifact Armor.
As this was happening, with Wen Zi Shan in the lead, the group of Azure Sun Temple Elders had solemn expressions on their faces as they stood on top of Myriad Saints Peaks.
Two streaks of light flew over rapidly, descending before the group, revealing the figures of Xiao Yu Yang and Xiao Chen a moment later.
“Xiao Chen greets Temple Master Wen and various Seniors!” Xiao Chen cupped his hands in respect. Despite his pride and high self-esteem, as well as his unbridled arrogance against his peers, he still maintained proper etiquette, not forgetting to greet the Seniors present before him.
Wen Zi Shan smiled and nodded, “Young Master Xiao is thoughtful.” Cupping his fists to Xiao Yu Yang, he continued, “It has been a while, Brother Xiao.”
“Temple Master Wen!” Xiao Yu Yang replied in a serious tone.
Although he was a member of Star Soul Palace, and similarly a Third-Order Emperor, he did not dare to show any ounce of overbearingness before the Temple Master of Azure Sun Temple, Wen Zi Shan.
Without waiting for Xiao Yu Yang to speak, Wen Zi Shan cut in, “You’ve come just in time for a joyous occasion for my temple, Brother Xiao. You certainly have to be a guest here for a few days.”
“Joyous occasion?” A frown appeared on Xiao Yu Yang’s face as he replied, “What joyous occasion?”
Wen Zi Shan replied, “It’s like this. In five days, our temple will be canonizing a new Elder. If Brother Xiao isn’t in a hurry, please stay behind to drink some celebratory wine.”
Hearing those words, Xiao Yu Yang’s eyes narrowed before he gave a reply in a cold tone, “Temple Master Wen, from what this King knows, among your noble sect’s Core Disciples, Xiao Sheng already broke through to the Emperor Realm quite some time ago, and already holds the position of Elder, while the others are in closed-door cultivation and won’t be coming out in short order. The person you are able to confer this position to couldn’t be the person I am looking for, right?”
A confused look appeared on Wen Zi Shan’s face, “Huh? Who is Brother Xiao looking for?”
Xiao Yu Yang proceeded to speak while emphasizing every word he said, “Yang… Kai!”
Wen Zi Shan responded with a surprised look, “Brother Xiao, what a genuine surprise, you’re actually able to guess that! Admirable! Admirable!”
Xiao Yu Yang roared out in fury, “Temple Master Wen!”
Seeing Wen Zi Shan still playing dumb, Xiao Yu Yang’s anger erupted.
With a chuckle, Wen Zi Shan replied, “Did Brother Xiao predict such a matter beforehand and come earlier to offer your congratulations? You really are too thoughtful.”
The veins on Xiao Yu Yang’s temples bulged and throbbed as he quickly snapped back, “Having known you for so many years, this Xiao will give you advice to not attract disaster onto yourself, Brother Wen.”
Wen Zi Shan could not help but narrow his eyes as he replied, “I don’t understand what you’re saying, Brother Xiao. Our temple is only inducting a new Elder. How would that invite disaster onto ourselves?”
Xiao Yu Yang stared intently at Wen Zi Shan, “That boy killed Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming. I don’t think Temple Master Wen is unaware of this matter.”
Wen Zi Shan gasped in shock, “That’s impossible, right? Tan Jun Han is a Third-Order Emperor, while Wu Ming is a Second-Order Emperor. Compared to them, Yang Kai is just a First-Order Emperor. How could he have killed them? That’s absolutely impossible! Could there be some mistake?”
Xiao Yu Yang sneered in response, “Over twenty Emperor Realm Masters hailing from as many Sects of the Southern Territory bore witness to this matter, so how could it be a mistake?”
Wen Zi Shan quickly followed up, “Did those twenty-plus Emperors really bear witness to what happened? What did they say happened?”
A wrinkle appeared on Xiao Yu Yang’s forehead as he turned silent for a moment before muttering, “Tan Jun Hao used parasites to control them to fight against Yang Kai. Nevertheless, he underestimated his enemy and was killed by Yang Kai in the end. Wu Ming helped a tyrant to oppress the innocent, and was also killed at the scene.”
“Tan Jun Hao actually carried out such despicable actions and smeared the honour of Star Soul Palace! His death really isn’t worth pitying!” A solemn expression appeared on Wen Zi Shan’s face as he stared intently at Xiao Yu Yang and pressed, “From what you’ve said, Yang Kai can be considered to have helped your Star Soul Palace clean its house, so you should feel gratitude towards him, yes? Is Brother Xiao here to express Star Soul Palace’s thanks to Yang Kai? If that is the case, you really don’t need to, as Elder Yang’s heroic actions were to purge evil. Your Star Soul Palace is too polite.”
Xiao Yu Yang exhaled slightly, before quickly replying, “Temple Master Wen, Tan Jun Hao was a Soul Palace Elder. Furthermore, he was a Third-Order Emperor, so his death isn’t a small matter. This also concerns the face of my Star Soul Palace!”
Wen Zi Shan gave a faint smile in response, “It’s naturally a big matter. However, didn’t the statements given by those twenty or so Emperors already provide plenty of explanation?”
Xiao Yu Yang shook his head, “I’m afraid there’s no other choice but for Yang Kai to follow me back to Star Soul Palace.”
An awkward look surfaced on Wen Zi Shan’s face, “I’m afraid that that’s not possible. Currently, Yang Kai can be considered to be an Elder of our temple. In a few days, we will be holding our Grand Canonization Ceremony. If he goes with you, won’t our temple become the laughingstock in the Southern Territory? Although Star Soul Palace wants to keep their face, so does our temple.”
Xiao Yu Yang replied, “Just as Temple Master Wen had said, the Grand Canonization Ceremony will happen in a few days. At this moment, Yang Kai still isn’t considered an Elder of Azure Sun Temple.”
“Who said that?” Wen Zi Shan grinned, before turning his head around, “Little Qian Qian!”
Without any pause, Chen Qian raised her hand and hundreds of invitations in the form of streaking lights shot out in all directions, before disappearing in the blink of an eye. She then proceeded to cup her fists and reply, “Temple Master, this subordinate has just sent out the invitations for the Grand Canonization Ceremony to the various Sects and Families throughout the Southern Territory!”
“Good,” Wen Zi Shan nodded slightly.
By this time, Xiao Yu Yang’s expression had already turned gloomy, “Wen Zi Shan, do you know the repercussions of your actions?”
Wen Zi Shan’s face instantly turned solemn as he said in a calm voice, “Yang Kai is a member of my temple. Even if your Star Soul Palace wants to take him away, you have to obtain the agreement from our temple before doing so.”
Letting out a sigh, Xiao Yu Yang took out a communication artifact before speaking in an indifferent tone, “I’ve already reported this matter to the Great Emperor, so the Great Emperor will be the one to decide how to handle this affair.”
Wen Zi Shan had shown his hand, clearly wanting to use the weight of his Sect to protect Yang Kai. Therefore, even if he were to confront Wen Zi Shan for this matter, he might not be able to snatch Yang Kai away. This left Xiao Yu Yang no other choice but to report this matter and quietly wait for a reply.
Wen Zi Shan’s expression finally changed. Nevertheless, he still proceeded to give a faint smile, “With his wisdom, the Great Emperor will naturally make a fair and just decision. Since you’re a guest, why not stay in our temple for a few days, Brother Xiao?”
“Good. Pardon my intrusion.” Xiao Yu Yang nodded slightly.
“Please!”
…..
Within the guest residence on top of Purple Bamboo Peak, a series of clashing sounds rang out, before an additional layer of majesty radiated from Yang Kai as the black dragon armour covered his body.
After unleashing his Golden Divine Dragon Source in a show of might, Yang Kai discovered that it was extraordinarily easy to refine this Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor, so much so that it was in fact even easier than most Dao Source Grade Artifacts. Wearing the Artifact Armor, he found it fit him exceedingly well, and was also extremely flexible, to the point where he was not even afraid of damaging it when he used his Dragon Transformation Secret Technique.
The only small gripe he had was that there was substantial damage present on the abdomen section of this Artifact Armor, causing this Mid-Rank Emperor Grade Artifact to only be able to display the might of a Low-Rank Emperor Grade Artifact.
However, this was more than enough.
Yang Kai had not bought this armour for its defensive strength; he simply wanted something that was capable of covering his body up after he had displayed his Dragon Transformation. Regardless of whether it was now a Mid-Rank or a Low-Rank Emperor Grade Artifact, it wasn’t too much of a difference to him.
Nevertheless, what Yang Kai fancied most about this Artifact Armor was how light it felt, as though he wasn’t wearing it at all. After putting on some standard robes, it was basically impossible to even notice this armour beneath them.
After inspecting himself for a while, Yang Kai proceeded to sit down again and continued to refine the Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor.
Gao Xue Ting came back a few times, though she did not disturb Yang Kai after seeing that he had been in retreat ever since.
Five days went by in a flash.
As morning dawned, Gao Xue Ting pushed open the door, shocking Yang Kai awake.
Raising his head, he noticed five young women walking over per the instructions of Gao Xue Ting. Seeing the outfits they wore, he guessed that they were disciples of Azure Sun Temple.
“Stand up.” Gao Xue Ting said to Yang Kai.
Standing up, Yang Kai asked suspiciously, “What is this about?”
Gao Xue Ting continued to signal to those few female disciples while giving Yang Kai an explanation, “They’re here to help you clean up. Today’s your big day.”
Yang Kai grinned, “You sound as if I’m about to get married.” However, seeing the icy expression on Gao Xue Ting’s face, Yang Kai withdrew his smile and obediently followed her arrangements.
He sat down on a chair to the side and immediately, one of the female disciples walked behind him and started to brush his hair, her movements soft and gentle. Another disciple proceeded to half kneel before him and started to clean his face.
Standing to the side, Gao Xue Ting started to brief Yang Kai about the flow of the Grand Canonization Ceremony, as well as the things he needed to take note of.
This left Yang Kai in surprise as he asked, “I’m just going to become a High-Rank Guest Elder. Is there really a need to make this event into such a large one?”
He had assumed that this was just a ceremony for formality; however, the proceedings don’t seem to fit with what he had envisioned.
“Don’t worry about that. You just need to follow along obediently,” Gao Xue Ting said in a commanding tone.
Yang Kai snorted back a reply before obediently remaining seated and not moving. He closed his eyes and rested, while etching Gao Xue Ting’s words into his heart.
The few female disciples surrounded Yang Kai as they groomed him, all while occasionally sneaking a few peeks to size him up before sighing in amazement. The sudden canonization of a new Elder had caught all of them in surprise. This was especially so after hearing that this new Elder was around the same age as their Eldest Senior Brother Xia Sheng, leaving them even more intrigued.
After all, Xia Sheng possessed extraordinary fame within the temple. Who knew how many female disciples had ideas about him? Now, having seen Yang Kai, they discovered that he appeared to be not inferior when compared to their Eldest Senior Brother. In fact, his heroic air trumped Xia Sheng’s. The close-distance service left the hearts of the few disciples beating somewhat rapidly as daydreams filled their heads.
After about an hour or so, Gao Xue Ting sent those female disciples back and proceeded to make Yang Kai stand and spin around a few times, sweeping her eyes over him for a while before nodding lightly.
Dressed in a set of long purple robes, Yang Kai had managed to get rid of a sliver of his youthful looks, replacing it with an air of stability that fit the appearance of an Elder.
“Let’s go.” Gao Xue Ting waved her hand and took the lead to fly off, with Yang Kai following close behind.
Originally, she wanted to remind Yang Kai to not be overly nervous; however, through the surveillance of her Divine Sense, she discovered the calm and relaxed look hanging on Yang Kai’s face, appearing as though he was utterly not worried at all. Seeing this, Gao Xue Ting was disinclined to remind him anymore.
She knew that Yang Kai had come face to face with quite a few great storms in his travels, so although this Grand Canonization Ceremony was a big event, it was not sufficient to shake his mind and spirit.
On top of Myriad Saints Peak, huge streams of people were present as guests hailing from various places were arranged on the sides of the plaza in accordance to their status and cultivation. There weren’t many people in the crowd, just over two hundred or so. Nevertheless, these people represented nearly all of the great Sects and powers in the Southern Territory.
Many disciples of Azure Sun Temple shuttled back and forth busily, continuing to walk up and down the various rows of seats. There was an incessant flow of fine wine and fragrant delicacies as the Emperor Realm Masters who were familiar with each other continued to toast, turning the environment exceedingly lively and bustling.
It was a rare sight to see so many Masters present in a single space. Even the Canonization Ceremony of Xia Sheng as an Elder was not of this magnitude. For the latter, the various great forces were informed after the matter had happened. However, for Yang Kai, the buzz he had created was known throughout the entire Southern Territory. If not for the tight time constraints, there might be even more guests arriving than those present.
Xiao Yu Yang and Xiao Chen shared a table. With their high statuses, the former being a Star Soul Palace Elder, and moreover a Third-Order Emperor Realm Masters, there were naturally people coming forward to toast with them. However, after Xiao Yu Yang casually dealt with a few people, he proceeded to close his eyes, making the rest of the people not dare to head over to disturb him.
No one even dared to have any criticism of his actions.
All of a sudden, drums rang out before the entire plaza turned silent and the bustling guests hastily headed back to their seats.
All eyes then turned and looked over towards the same direction.
Over there, two groups of cultivators were flying over, one group of males, and one group of females. All of the males wore smart appearances, brimming with bravery and heroic spirit. On the other side, all of the females appeared as though they were beauties that had come out of paintings, brimming with an elegance that was paired with their pure white dresses. Every single one of them possessed a Dao Source Realm cultivation, with strong and vibrant auras radiating from them.
The group of males and females split apart to reveal an exquisite ship floating behind. Yang Kai stood at the bow, meeting the wind head-on. As his long hair blew along with the wind, he gave people a feeling as though he was flying leisurely through the air. Standing not far behind him was Gao Xue Ting, who wore a solemn and respectful expression on her face.
Landing on the top of Myriad Saints Peak, the two groups of males and females immediately moved to the sides. As the ship came to a halt, Yang Kai and Gao Xue Ting flew and descended from it.
In an instant, countless gazes turned towards Yang Kai as people started to size him up in curiosity.
This fellow by the name of Yang Kai had killed an Elder and Deacon of Star Soul Palace. News of this matter had sent the entire Southern Territory into a buzz as of late. At this moment, even people who didn’t know about this matter instantly knew that this person was the main focus of Azure Sun Temple’s Grand Canonization Ceremony.
Those who did not know Yang Kai were naturally curious about him, wondering exactly what kind of fearless fellow he was to dare to take action against an Elder of Star Soul Palace.
From their first look, they discovered that Yang Kai only possessed a First-Order Emperor Realm cultivation, causing looks of disappointment to appear on their faces. All of them secretly felt that there might be some kind of problem with the information they received, as how would a youth like Yang Kai be capable of killing Tan Jun Hao with that level of cultivation?
He might not even be able to resist a single move from Tan Jun Hao.
There were even more people carefully looking over towards Xiao Yu Yang. At this moment, being an Elder of Star Soul Palace, everyone was naturally very curious as to how he would react after seeing Yang Kai. However, the result left people disappointed, as the former continued to keep his eyes closed and not say a single word.
What was Azure Sun Temple thinking? They were actually conferring the title of Elder to a fellow who killed a Star Soul Palace Elder! Were they looking for trouble? Many people were unable to understand the current situation.
The flow of events for this Grand Canonization Ceremony was truthfully not complicated; after all, with everyone being a cultivator, the process was straightforward and not overly convoluted. Under Gao Xue Ting’s guidance, Yang Kai walked forward, ignoring the curious and examining gazes coming from the sides, all the way to before Wen Zi Shan.
With a faint smile hanging on his face, Wen Zi Shan extended a finger out and tapped on Yang Kai’s head before proceeding to speak sentence after sentence, spelling out the benefits, as well as the duties, that Yang Kai would have after becoming an Elder of Azure Sun Temple.
It took a whole half hour before Wen Zi Shan finished his speech. Looking at Yang Kai, he said, “Have you memorized this King’s words?”
Yang Kai replied in a solemn and respectful tone, “I have committed them to memory.”
“Good,” nodding in satisfaction, Wen Zi Shan extended his hand behind him. Immediately, Chen Qian, who was standing beside him, placed an object into his hand.
“Receive this Jade Elder Token. Yang Kai, from this day onwards, you will be an Elder of our Azure Sun Temple, advancing and living alongside our temple!”
“I will comply with the Temple Master’s orders!” Yang Kai cupped his fists and accepted the Jade Elder Token before returning his Azure Sun Golden Token to Wen Zi Shan.
From this moment on, Yang Kai was an Elder of Azure Sun Temple. The jade token was exceedingly light, and wasn’t large in size; however, it felt heavy when Yang Kai held it in his hands. This sense of heaviness came from the care and support he had received from the various Seniors of Azure Sun Temple.
“Sacrifice to the Heavens!” Wen Zi Shan roared out in a deep voice as he waved his hand.
“Huo…”
A beastial roar pierced through the skies. Looking over towards the source of the sound, Yang Kai saw Qiu Yan flying while carrying a cage with his Emperor Qi. Inside the cage was a mighty and impressive ape-type Monster Beast that radiated a golden light from its back which made its fur seem as if it had been cast from a golden metal. Despite being trapped within the cage, which restricted its strength, a violent aura that blotted the skies still radiated from it. It continued to smash its body against the cage, though its attempts to escape were futile, leaving it roaring incessantly in fury.
“Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape!” Someone exclaimed in shock.
The expressions of a number of Emperor Realm guests present at the ceremony changed.
This Sacrifice to the Heavens was the final event in the Grand Canonization Ceremony. This was also a chance for the new Elder to display his strength before the audience.
Generally speaking, the Monster Beast used in such ceremonies would be of average strength, neither strong nor weak. If it was too strong, it would result in the new Elder becoming a laughingstock if they were unable to kill it. If it was too weak, the new Elder wouldn’t have the chance to properly display his or her ability.
Although the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape was a Low-Rank Twelfth-Order Monster Beast, which was on par with a First-Order Emperor, an average First-Order Emperor could only hope to flee safely if they encountered this Monster Beast in the wild. That was because the defensive capabilities of this Monster Beast were astonishing, along with its strong restorative capabilities. Any First-Order Emperor would need to risk their lives in order to kill it, and even that wouldn’t guarantee success.
No matter how they looked at him, Yang Kai was just a First-Order Emperor. Could he successfully finish this sacrificial ceremony and deal with that Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape?
Apprehension rose in the hearts of quite a few people among the audience, afraid that a mistake made by Yang Kai would turn Azure Sun Temple into the butt of all jokes, with no way to wipe it clean.
Some were secretly guessing that the Monster Beast’s strength might have been restricted, to allow Yang Kai to kill it more easily.
Just as doubts and suspicions rose within the audience, Wen Zi Shan nodded slightly towards Qiu Ran. The latter made a few seals with his hands, and in the next instant, the cage imprisoning the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape opened. With a flash, even the restrictions on its strength were lifted.
“HOU…”
A violent aura exploded forth and as it left its cage, the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape seemed just like a tiger that had entered the plains, or a dragon that swam in the seas. Beating its fists against its chest, powerful thumping sounds rang out as it swept its scarlet red eyes towards its surroundings.
Shocked expressions appeared on the faces of quite a few people as massive waves of fear surged within their hearts.
All of the restrictions placed on this Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape had been completely removed. Furthermore, being enraged, it would probably react more aggressively than usual. Just this alone was enough for basically any First-Order Emperor to become insufficient to deal with it. Only a Second-Order Emperor Realm would be able to defeat such a beast.
What was Azure Sun Temple thinking? Being known to be astute throughout his life, how could Wen Zi Shan turn muddled at this moment? If a setback occurred in this ceremony, wouldn’t he become a laughingstock?
A sword glow flashed as Yang Kai took to the air.
Earlier, on Purple Bamboo Peak, Gao Xue Ting had already briefed him clearly about the sequence of today’s events. Therefore, he knew what he had to do during this Sacrificial Ceremony. Naturally, he did not regard this trivial Twelfth-Order Low-Rank Monster Beast as a threat.
Summoning his Myriads Sword, he pointed it towards the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape as he locked his murderous intent onto it.
Appearing to have sensed this, the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape immediately looked over right when Yang Kai’s murderous intent surged. Monster Qi gushed out from its body, and with a ferocious roar, it lunged towards him, wanting to tear him into shreds.
Right at this instant, an unexpected occurrence happened; a streak of light suddenly shot over from afar. Travelling like a bolt of lightning, it pierced through the body of the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape, before continuing unimpeded towards Yang Kai.
“Who!” Wen Zi Shan roared out as he attempted to save Yang Kai, though he was too late to do so.
A clear metallic sound rang out as the Myriads Sword in Yang Kai’s hand flashed. He was thrown back a whole thousand metres before being able to stabilize himself. His face abruptly turned pale, before he vomited out a mouthful of blood.
It was only at this moment that Wen Zi Shan arrived between him and the streak of light. In the next instant, Gao Xue Ting appeared by Yang Kai’s side. Standing before him, she turned her beautiful eyes vigilantly towards the newcomer.
*Peng…*
A dull bang rang out, as the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape, which had been raging about as mightly as a dragon and as fiercely as a tiger just now, exploded into a cloud of blood mist, dispersing in the air, not even leaving bones behind.
The audience was dumbstruck by what they had just witnessed, as all of them proceeded to stand up. No one had expected someone to actually come and cause trouble during the last event of this ceremony. Furthermore, that person had killed the sacrificial beast in a single move! Not only that, that person had dealt a blow to the lead figure of today’s Grand Canonization Ceremony!
This action was basically a slap towards Azure Sun Temple’s face! Who could endure it?
However, being able to smash the Twelfth-Order Monster Beast, the Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape into a blood mist was evidence of the astonishing strength this intruder possessed. There were absolutely no more than three people among the many Emperors present who could achieve such a feat.
Exactly who was this rampant in their actions?
Looking over, the audience could not help but to be dumbstruck once again, though looks of understanding soon surfaced on their faces as they started to slowly sense that this Grand Canonization Ceremony might not be able to proceed smoothly anymore.
“Elder Xue!” Wen Zi Shan’s eyes narrowed as he stared at the intruder, the tone of his voice deep, with an ugly expression appearing on his face.
The intruder was impressively Elder Xue Zheng Mao of Star Soul Palace! This was something that he did not expect at all. After all, Xiao Yu Yang was already present, which should have been sufficient for a delegation from the Great Emperor Sect of the Southern Territory. Why did Xue Zheng Mao run all the way here? Furthermore, he had caused trouble right as he arrived, not giving Azure Sun Temple any face at all.
As he roared out, he simultaneously shot a glance towards Xiao Yu Yang, only to discover that there was a slight frown on the latter’s face. It seemed as though Xiao Yu Yang wasn’t informed about this matter at all.
“Temple Master Wen!” Xue Zheng Mao replied indifferently before sweeping his gaze past Wen Zi Shan and landing on Yang Kai before he opened his mouth, “So, you are Yang Kai? You’re actually able to remain alright after receiving this Old Master’s strike. You can be considered outstanding for that, however… you must now come with this Old Master.”
As he said those words, he extended his hand to grab at Yang Kai.
Wen Zi Shan’s expression turned into one of fury as he raised his hand to send a palm right towards Xue Zheng Mao.
“Impudence!” As he roared out, Xue Zheng Mao turned his grab into a palm and smashed it against Wen Zi Shan’s incoming palm strike. A shock wave propagated out as space collapsed. Both parties retreated three steps back, appearing to be evenly matched from the exchange.
“Elder Xue, this King respects you as a guest! However, you’ve attacked my temple’s Elder right upon your arrival! Aren’t you going overboard with your actions?” Wen Zi Shan snorted coldly.
Xue Zheng Mao replied, “Your temple’s Elder? Wen Zi Shan, you’re really getting more muddled the older you get. Don’t tell me that you don’t know how big of a mess this little brat has created? And yet you still dare to protect him? Are you trying to uproot your Azure Sun Temple’s foundations?”
“May I know what mess Elder Yang had created that caused Elder Xue to be this angry? This King really wishes to know about it,” Wen Zi Shan did not back down in the slightest.
“I will not argue with you about this. Today, I will take Yang Kai from here.” Xue Zheng Mao snorted coldly, stubborn and headstrong in his ways. Turning his head to Xiao Yu Yang, he asked, “Elder Xiao, what do you think?”
Wen Zi Shan’s face changed slightly upon hearing those words.
Although he was a Third-Order Emperor, he was only able to deal with a single person of the same cultivation realm as him. If Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao were to collaborate, it would be hard for Yang Kai to escape from here. Even if all of Azure Sun Temple’s Emperors were to take action, they might not be able to save the situation.
Xiao Yu Yang frowned, “Five days ago, I reported this matter to the Great Emperor. I’m now waiting for the Great Emperor to give his verdict!”
Wen Zi Shan immediately breathed a sigh of relief. Xiao Yu Yang not taking action was a good thing for him, as he was not afraid of Xue Zheng Mao alone.
“Hmph!” Not getting the answer he was looking for, Xue Zheng Mao appeared to be unsatisfied with Xiao Yu Yang. Nevertheless, with both of them being Elders of Star Soul Palace and having the same status, he did not say anything more despite the dissatisfaction that surfaced within his heart. Turning his head around, he looked at Wen Zi Shan, “Temple Master Wen, the ceremony has not been completed, so Yang Kai cannot be considered an Elder of your temple. Hand him over to this Old Master. This will benefit your temple, without any disadvantages at all.”
Wen Zi Shan shook his head and replied, “Although the ceremony has yet to be completed, Yang Kai has already received the Jade Elder Token. Who would dare to claim that he is not an Elder of our temple?”
“Are you going to be that obstinate and insist on making the Great Emperor furious before being willing to lower your head?” Xue Zheng Mao roared out in anger.
With a faint smile, Wen Zi Shan replied, “The Great Emperor’s wisdom and judgment are beyond question, so how could he be infuriated by such a matter? He might even reward Elder Yang for helping Star Soul Palace clean up its mess.”
“Impudence!” Xue Zhen Mao’s face turned ashen with rage.
Wen Zi Shan replied coldly, “If you want to take Elder Yang away, you have to go past this King before doing so.”
“Do you really think that I don’t dare to take action?” Xue Zheng Mao growled between his clenched teeth.
“Didn’t you already take action earlier?” Wen Zi Shan retorted.
These two Third-Order Emperors traded barbs back and forth, neither willing to back down. The flames of anger in their eyes grew stronger by the moment, as though they were about to viciously attack one another. Seeing this, the hearts of the guests started to pound in fear as cold sweat drenching their backs.
If these two started to fight, regardless of how amazing a sight it would be to see, being caught up in the fallout would be a disaster.
No one was willing for that to happen.
“Seniors, please calm yourselves. You two are pillars of our Southern Territory, and cross paths regularly, so there’s no need for this, right?” Orthodoxy Temple’s Feng Ming stood up in an attempt to mediate.
“That’s right. Please don’t let anger blind your judgment. Come have a seat and have some tea.” Seven Glories Chamber of Commerce’s Vice President Cheng Yang stood up and chimed in.
Chen Wen Hao from Heavenly Martial Holy Land quickly added, “Didn’t Elder Xiao say that he was waiting for the Great Emperor’s verdict? It has already been five days, so it won’t take long before the Great Emperor’s decision is sent out. Therefore, there’s no need to be in such a rush, right, Elder Xue?”
Xue Zheng Mao frowned, turning silent for a short moment before replying, “Good. This King will wait here for the Great Emperor’s judgment. When that happens, I want to see how you, Wen Zi Shan, will protect that little brat.”
After saying that, he shot a glare at Xiao Yu Yang. Today’s matter had caused a great deal of frustration for him. Originally, he had believed that Yang Kai would surrender without a fight when he personally made an appearance. Never did he expect Wen Zi Shan to actually not give him any face at all. More importantly, he was utterly blindsided by the presence of Xiao Yu Yang, as well as the latter having already reported this matter to the Great Emperor. If he had known about these details, he would have never made an appearance today. In any case, the Great Emperor’s verdict would arrive soon, and when it did, how would Wen Zi Shan dare to resist?
“Someone, please find this guest a seat!” Wen Zi Shan waved his hand as he took a breath of relief in his heart and mind. Regardless of the situation, it was enough as long as Xue Zheng Mao didn’t cause more trouble.
“There’s no rush!” Yang Kai, who had remained silent throughout the whole intrusion, suddenly spoke out.
Wen Zi Shan shot a stunned look at him.
Wiping the fresh blood from the corner of his mouth, Yang Kai continued, “May I ask Temple Master, is there a backup for the Sacrificial Beast?”
Wen Zi Shan laughed bitterly as he shook his head.
That Twelfth-Order Monster Beast was not easy to find and capture. If not, it wouldn’t be valuable at all. That was especially so with such tight time constraints. Where would they go to find another one? The Golden-Backed Heavenly Ape that was just killed had been personally caught by Wen Zi Shan in a desolate mountain range tens of thousands of kilometres away.
It was a pity that it was killed by Xue Zheng Mao before Yang Kai could take action. This had caused this Grand Canonization Ceremony to turn into an exceedingly awkward situation.
Yang Kai lowered his head, “Since there’s no backup, I have no choice but to commit this offense.”
Wen Zi Shan’s heart jumped as he subconsciously blurted out a question, “What are you thinking?”
Before he could finish saying those words, he suddenly saw Yang Kai’s body flicker, before disappearing from its original position. Wen Zi Shan’s expression changed greatly as he could faintly guess Yang Kai’s intentions. Turning his head, he looked towards Xue Zheng Mao and indeed saw Yang Kai’s silhouette suddenly appear before him, sweeping his sword down towards the latter. A terrifying hundred-metre long sword wave coated the edge of the sword, appearing as though it wanted to tear the world apart.
Xue Zheng Mao was also shocked by Yang Kai’s actions. Raising his hand, he sent out a palm. Vigorous Emperor Qi gushed forth, whipping up howling winds, shattering the sword wave while Xue Zheng Mao’s figure shook slightly.
“Boy, you dare ambush this Old Master!” Xue Zheng Mao roared out, his nose askew in fury. He was a Third-Order Emperor Realm Master, and furthermore, an Elder of Star Soul Palace! Yet, this youth dared to ambush him without saying even a single word?
Fortunately, he was able to react quickly enough to block the attack. If not, he might have really suffered from it. Regardless, he had been ambushed in full view of this vast audience, which was a huge blow to Xue Zheng Mao’s dignity, resulting in his anger bursting through the roof.
“Pay a man back with his own coin!” Yang Kai grinned, allowing the sword to leave his grip from the recoil of Xue Zheng Mao’s palm while he rapidly formed a set of profound hand seals. Time Principles surged around Yang Kai and as that happened, everyone present instantly felt as though time had stopped flowing, to the point where their thoughts froze for a moment.
While unleashing the Time Flies Seal, golden light blossomed from Yang Kai’s right eye as a lotus bud flashed within.
The enraged Xue Zheng Mao’s body turned rigid while a sharp pain surfaced in his head. Right before his eyes, a gigantic lotus flower started to bloom, causing waves of shock to surge in his heart. How could he have known that he would be struck by Yang Kai’s move the instant he relaxed his guard?
What’s more, this Soul Secret Technique seemed to be exceptionally powerful, not something a mere First-Order Emperor Realm should be able to unleash.
Biting the tip of his tongue, Xue Zheng Mao used the spike in pain to snap awake. Unleashing the full might of his Spiritual Energy, he resisted against the influence of the Blossoming Lotus Secret Technique. As he regained his clarity, the gigantic blossoming lotus had disappeared from his sight.
As he raised his head, cold sweat erupted throughout his body; in that instant that he was hampered, Yang Kai’s seal was on the brink of smashing against his chest.
Although he did not know how powerful this technique was, it gave him an exceedingly strong feeling of unease. He attempted to muster up his defence, only to discover that his thoughts had slowed immensely, to the point that his actions turned sluggish and uncoordinated.
With an explosive roar, the might of his Third-Order Emperor Realm cultivation erupted in full force as he threw out his palm. Nevertheless, before he could make any move, that seal had already pressed onto his chest.
He, who had just regained control over his body and mind, was frozen once more…
At the same time, Xue Zheng Mao’s retaliatory strike also smashed against Yang Kai. Everyone present could see a visible depression appearing in Yang Kai’s chest as clear sounds of bones cracking rang out, followed by Yang Kai’s face losing all colour.
Nevertheless, Yang Kai forcefully kept his silence while grabbing his Myriads Sword again and slashing towards Xue Zheng Mao’s chest.
*Chi…*
With a flash of his sword, Yang Kai’s body flickered before he reappeared at his earlier position. His body trembled slightly as his face turned into a pale shade of white.
With a grunt, Yang Kai’s face flushed red as he forcefully swallowed the blood that had surged up from within his chest.
This series of actions was simply too shocking for the crowd to keep up with. Furthermore, due to the interference as a result of Yang Kai’s Time Flies Seal, the audience only managed to come back to their senses after Yang Kai had retreated. Looks of shock and doubt covered their faces as they stared at this youth as if they had just seen a ghost.
Even Wen Zi Shan had a look of shock on his face, while Xiao Yu Yang had stood up abruptly, a light of disbelief filling his eyes.
“I sacrifice the blood of my enemy to the Heavens!” As Yang Kai roared, he waved his Myriads Sword, causing a streak of blood mist to erupt from the sword, filling a large stretch of the surroundings. “The ceremony is complete!”
*Chii…*
At this same time, blood abruptly spurted out from Xue Zheng Mao’s chest. As that audience raised their heads to look over, all of them sucked in a mouthful of cold air as they noticed the existence of a half metre long bloody wound on Xue Zheng Mao’s chest….
Xue Zheng Mao also appeared to be unable to believe what had happened, that he had actually been injured by a First-Order Emperor! His entire being seemed to freeze at that point in space and time as he stared blankly at the wound in his chest, where blood continued to spew out from.
An instant later, his entire body trembled as he extended his hand towards his chest. Suppressing the flow of blood from his wound, Xu Zheng Mao’s eyes turned scarlet with fury as he glared towards Yang Kai and roared, “Boy, you court death!”
He had suffered unfathomable humiliation by actually being injured by a series of moves from a First-Order Emperor Realm Junior! This was an utter embarrassment! Admittedly, he had underestimated his opponent; however, that did nothing to diminish the fact that this boy surnamed Kai was extraordinary. If it was any other First-Order Emperor, it would have been impossible for Xue Zheng Mao to suffer any injury at all, no matter how much he underestimated his foe.
Nevertheless, how could Xue Zheng Mao endure losing so much face before so many of the Southern Territory’s Emperors?
Murderous intent surged up and exploded forth as Xue Zheng Mao was truly engulfed with rage.
Right at this moment, Wen Zi Shan had appeared right before Xue Zheng Mao.
Although he was also shocked to see that Yang Kai was actually able to injure Xue Zheng Mao in that instant, he knew that Yang Kai had paid quite a high price to do so. Xue Zheng Mao’s retaliatory strike had definitely caused damage to Yang Kai’s organs. Furthermore, Yang Kai seemed to have used a few extraordinarily powerful Secret Techniques in succession just to injure Xue Zheng Mao. If Yang Kai were to engage in a head-on fight against Xue Zheng Mao, Wen Zi Shan did not favour Yang Kai’s chance of victory.
“Move!” Xue Zheng Mao roared out as he descended completely into madness.
Wen Zi Shan replied, “Elder Xue, you were the one who ambushed first. This forced Elder Yang into such circumstances. Being the Senior, you aren’t that small-minded and petty, are you?”
Xue Zheng Mao’s face turned black as he immediately thought back about the words ‘pay a man back with his own coin’ that Yang Kai had said earlier. That was indeed the case. When he had arrived, he had ambushed Yang Kai without any warning at all. Therefore, he was in no position to stop people from ambushing him back, right?
Nevertheless, he would absolutely not let this matter end here. Otherwise, he would not be able to soothe the anger that was erupting in his chest.
Turning his head around, he looked to his side and shouted, “Elder Xiao!”
Xiao Yu Yang let off a sigh before taking a few steps forward and appearing by Xue Zheng Mao’s side.
The situation had reached the point where Xiao Yu Yang was no longer able to watch from the sidelines. This was no longer just about Xue Zheng Mao’s face; it was now a matter of Star Soul Palace’s face. Therefore, he needed to stand by Xue Zheng Mao’s side.
“Hold Wen Zi Shan back. This Old Master will end that little brat’s life!” Xue Zheng Mao transmitted.
Xiao Yu Yang replied, “It won’t be a problem to hold Wen Zi Shan back. However… you won’t be able to kill that boy.”
“Are you looking down on this Old Master?” Anger flared once again within Xue Zheng Mao’s chest, akin to a boiling volcano that could erupt at any moment, “The earlier matter only occurred due to this Old Master’s carelessness.”
“I’m not looking down on you, but that boy is proficient in the Dao of Space. Without a way to seal the surrounding space, no one can capture him!”
“The Dao of Space!” Xue Zheng Mao’s pupils contracted as a feeling of helplessness gushed out uncontrollably from the depths of his heart.
Being an Elder of Star Soul Palace, he was abundantly clear what kind of abilities a cultivator proficient in the Dao of Space possessed. In the past, that fellow Li Wu Yi had offended the Flower Shadow Great Emperor, resulting in him being chased down by the Great Emperor personally. In the end, he still managed to escape, all due to his mastery of the Dao of Space!
Later, due to the intervention of the Martial Beast Great Emperor, Flower Shadow Great Emperor eventually pardoned him. To this day, Li Wu Yi was still living a good life, moving around without fetters on Spirit Beast Island.
If Yang Kai was truly proficient in the Dao of Space, Xue Zheng Mao would really be unable to capture the former.
The frown on Xue Zheng Mao’s face grew deeper, as he felt stuck between a rock and a hard place.
Two Star Soul Palace Elders stood side by side, causing the audience’s expression to change. Wen Zi Shan’s expression regained its earlier solemn look, while the many Emperors from Azure Sun Temple came up to surround Yang Kai, vigilant looks present on their faces.
No one had expected the Grand Canonization Ceremony to devolve into such a mess.
“Elder Xue, Elder Xiao, what are you two planning on doing?” Wen Zi Shan said in a deep voice, “Although our Azure Sun Temple cannot rival your Star Soul Palace, we will not be casually bullied.”
Xiao Yu Yang did not reply and neither did Xue Zheng Mao, who continued to glare angrily at Yang Kai.
The guests present for the ceremony were feeling extremely nervous, afraid that both parties would really start a grand battle. Once a conflict arose between Star Soul Palace and Azure Sun Temple, it would shake the entire Southern Territory, with no advantage for any party present.
A suffocating atmosphere engulfed the entire scene, with sweat drenching the backs of all of present, from Juniors to Elders.
“Stop!”
At that moment, a gentle voice suddenly rang out from the horizon, bringing along with it a mysterious power that immediately caused everyone’s tense nerves to relax.
Right at the instant when the voice rang out, Xiao Chen snapped out of the complicated gaze he was using to look at Yang Kai as he looked over with gleaming eyes.
A streak of pure light came shooting over before a young woman so beautiful that she seemed as though she did not belong to the mundane world appeared. With her long black hair tied up in a neat bun, leaving a few strands that draped down before her chest and a yellow dress that accentuated her exquisite appearance, this young beauty slowly floated down towards Myriad Saints Peak.
“Princess!” Xiao Chen shouted out in pleasant surprise.
Who would be unsure of her identity after hearing Xiao Chen’s words? Shock filled the hearts of the guests as they all stood up in succession, cupping their fists respectfully, “Greetings, Princess Lan Xun!”
The older Emperors were still able to remain calm due to the long years they spent tempering their wills, toning down their reactions to a shocked gasp upon spotting Lan Xun’s exquisite beauty. On the contrary, the youths that had followed their Elder here, be it male or female, proceeded to gawk at Lan Xun in a daze. This was especially obvious among the males, as obvious looks of infatuation covered their faces. This was not something they could prevent, as Lan Xun’s dazzling brilliance had enraptured their souls.
This person was the daughter of the Great Emperor. Without mentioning her extraordinary beauty that was sufficient to enrapture the soul of any man, even if she were horribly ugly, just her status was more than enough to curry favour with her.
This resulting scene caused Xiao Chen’s expression to sink. With a soft snort, he took the initiative to welcome Lan Xun.
Upon approaching, he revealed a gentle smile and said in a soft voice, “What are you doing here, Princess?”
Lan Xun nodded gently towards him to return his greeting, before her expression turned serious, “By order of the Great Emperor, I am here to deliver his judgment!”
The audience’s expressions were filled with reverence upon hearing her words.
There were ten Great Emperors under the Heavens. However, the Great Emperor that was mentioned by Lan Xun was without a doubt the Master of Star Soul Palace, the Bright Moon Great Emperor, the pillar of the entire Southern Territory. Just like how the Wondrous Pill Great Emperor would be respected by anyone in the Northern Territory, the Bright Moon Great Emperor was the existence that was respected by everyone within the Southern Territory.
“We respectfully receive the Great Emperor’s command!” Wen Zi Shan shouted back with a solemn expression on his face.
Solemn expressions were also present on the faces of the various guests present as they awaited the order.
Lan Xun nodded before commenting, “This is not the place to speak. May I trouble Uncle Wen to prepare a secure room?”
Clearly, she was indicating that this place was crowded and prone to induce gossip. Nevertheless, the guests present here did not dare to show even the slightest bit of dissatisfaction. From a certain point of view, Lan Xun was now representing the Bright Moon Great Emperor, so who would dare to not show due respect?
“This way, please!” Wen Zi Shan turned to give way.
Lan Xun nodded her head slightly, taking the lead to move towards the palace in front. As she moved past Yang Kai, she came to a halt and turned her head, “Please come too, Senior Brother Yang.”
Yang Kai remained silent for an instant, before moving and following behind. Lan Xun coming here was definitely something that was tied to him. Therefore, being involved in this matter, he definitely had to follow along.
Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao exchanged glances before they too appeared behind Lan Xun with a flicker. Being interested in what was about to transpire for many reasons, Xiao Chen was not willing to stay behind.
It did not take long for the group of people to appear within the palace. Wen Zi Shan waved his hand, and the large doors immediately closed shut.
Walking up to the platform within the palace hall, Lan Xun turned around and looked down. Present were three Third-Order Emperors, with Yang Kai and Xiao Chen standing by their sides.
A smile appeared on Lan Xun’s face as she looked over towards Yang Kai and spoke, “I have to first congratulate Senior Brother Yang for becoming an Elder of Azure Sun Temple from this day onwards!”
Wrinkles appeared on the foreheads of Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao upon hearing her words, as they were able to faintly gleam the underlying message behind her words.
Yang Kai replied, “You’re too courteous, Princess.”
Lan Xun replied in a displeased tone, “What’s with the overly formal tone, Senior Brother Yang? Little Sister Xiao Qi and I are as close as sisters, and with you being just like her Big Brother, just call me Lan Xun, alright?”
“He dares!” Xiao Chen’s eyes immediately turned red and round upon hearing those words. How could any man enjoy such a privilege to call her with such intimacy? He had grown up with Lan Xun since young, and till this day, was only able to address her as such in private settings while still maintaining formal etiquette in accordance with their social statuses in public.
“Since Sister Lan Xun has said so, I will not be polite. Congratulations to you as well for breaking through to the Emperor Realm,” Yang Kai replied while shooting a glance over at Xiao Chen, causing the latter to boil with such anger it appeared he was on the verge of exploding.
On the other hand, the three Third-Order Emperors present were filled with shock, firstly due to Lan Xun’s attitude towards Yang Kai, and secondly because of the words Lan Xun had spoke. A person that could be treated as a sister by Lan Xun was definitely no ordinary existence.
“Xiao Qi?” Xiao Yu Yang muttered, “Could it be that lass from Spirit Beast Island?”
Xue Zheng Mao and Wen Zi Shan snapped abruptly back to their senses before shooting astonished looks at Yang Kai. Both of them appeared to not have imagined that Yang Kai was actually able to form a relationship with the princess of Spirit Beast Island. Furthermore, the implied meaning behind Lan Xun’s words showed that this relationship was not just one of acquaintances.
“It’s precisely that girl from Spirit Beast Island,” Lan Xun covered her grin with her hand, “The few of you don’t know, but Little Sister Xiao Qi has a very intimate relationship with Senior Brother Yang. Earlier, when I followed my father to visit Spirit Beast Island, Little Sister Xiao Qi was constantly asking me for news about Senior Brother Yang. It’s a pity that Senior Brother Yang is like a hidden dragon who shows his tail but never his face, so I was unable to tell her much, leaving her disappointed for quite a while.”
With their relationship, Lan Xun might not have informed Mo Xiao Qi even if she was privy to news of Yang Kai.
Although Lan Xun did not place any emphasis on her words, huge shockwaves had swelled up in the hearts of the three Third-Order Emperors present.
Although Mo Xiao Qi didn’t count for much on her own, none of them were able to ignore the person standing behind her. That was an existence that stood shoulder to shoulder with the Bright Moon Great Emperor. Yang Kai’s close relationship with Mo Xiao Qi meant that he was being sheltered by the towering tree that was Spirit Beast Island. One would need to weigh the pros and cons carefully before daring to touch him…
The Bright Moon Great Emperor doted on Lan Xun greatly, but the same could be said of the Martial Beast Great Emperor towards Mo Xiao Qi. Any tantrum whipped up by the latter was more than sufficient to turn the Great Emperor’s knees weak.
At this moment, Xue Zheng Mao couldn’t help but feel relieved that he hadn’t done anything serious towards Yang Kai. If not, he would have no way of extricating himself. The matter of Tan Jun Hao could now only be handled by the Great Emperor.
With his brow twitching, Xue Zheng Mao asked, “Princess, what are the orders of the Great Emperor?”
Wen Zi Shan and Xiao Yu Yang both turned their heads towards Lan Xun in anticipation.
Lan Xun’s expression turned serious as she replied, “Despite being an Elder of Star Soul Palace, not only did Tan Jun Han not set a proper example for the billions of Southern Territory cultivators, he went on to commit disgraceful acts and harmed numerous Emperors of the Southern Territory. Wu Ming acted complicit in these heinous acts, helping a tyrant to oppress the innocent. These matters have already been investigated by the Great Emperor thoroughly and he has judged their deaths not worth pitying. By the order of the Great Emperor, the matter regarding Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming is hence resolved, and no one is allowed to raise any objections.’’
As soon as she finished giving the order, Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao both cupped their fists and bowed, “We heed the Great Emperor’s order!”
Wen Zi Shan grinned and cupped his fists too, “The Great Emperor is both wise and fair! Praise the Great Emperor!”
Yang Kai also added, “Many thanks to the Great Emperor!”
Yang Kai finally breathed a deep sigh of relief in his heart. A person that was able to become a Great Emperor was indeed wise and magnanimous. With the Great Emperor’s order, Yang Kai would no longer need to worry about this matter.
Nevertheless, generally speaking, Star Soul Palace should be grateful towards him for cleaning up their trash in the form of killing Tan Jun Hao and Wu Ming; however, these were just trivial matters, as being the overlord of the Southern Territory, it was already magnanimous for Star Soul Palace to not pursue the matter of the deaths of their Elder and Deacon, much less showing gratitude.
“There is another matter that father has entrusted to me that I have to discuss with Senior Brother Yang,” Lan Xun turned her eyes around and landed them on Yang Kai.
The people present did not miss the subtle change in the way she addressed the Bright Moon Great Emperor. Ever since her arrival, Lan Xun had always used the title ‘Great Emperor’ in her speech; however, it had just changed to ‘father’. In other words, the following discussion did not involve the status of the Great Emperor.
“Would it be possible for me to ask about the details?” Yang Kai asked.
Lan Xun replied, “My father wished to know the whereabouts of Tan Jun Han’s Golden Armor Heavenly Book.”
Right as her words rang out, everyone within the palace focused their gazes towards Yang Kai. Clearly, the three Third-Order Emperors knew about the famed Golden Armor Heavenly Book.
Although there were quite a few Emperor Artifacts present within the Star Boundary, there were only a handful of famous ones out there. An example would be the Mountain and Rivers Bell in Yang Kai’s possession, which was an Ancient Exotic Artifact that was precious enough for even Great Emperors to covet.
Although Tan Jun Han’s Golden Armor Heavenly Book was inferior to the Mountain and Rivers Bell, it was no ordinary Emperor Artifact. In fact, it was among the highest grades of Emperor Artifacts.
A frown appeared on Yang Kai’s face, while a sliver of unease surfaced from the depths of his heart. Nevertheless, he replied, “The Golden Armor Heavenly Book is with me.”
As he replied, he retrieved the Golden Armor Heavenly Book and placed it in his hand.
The golden light radiating from it instantly drew everyone’s eyes over.
Nodding her head, Lan Xun continued in a soft voice, “It’s like this, Senior Brother Yang. Father hopes that you are able to hand the Golden Armor Heavenly Book to me to bring back…”
Yang Kai’s expression immediately sank as he heard those words, as he understood that his prediction had come true.
He was all too clear of the might the Golden Armor Heavenly Book could unleash. During his fight against Tan Jun Hao, if not for the latter’s carelessness of underestimating him, Yang Kai might have needed to pay a huge price to kill Tan Jun Hao after the latter unleashed the full might of the Golden Armor Heavenly Book. In fact, it was possible that Yang Kai wouldn’t have been able to kill him even if he were to go all out once that happened.
Therefore, he naturally did not wish to hand such a good treasure over to other people. Furthermore, he had been refining the Golden Armor Heavenly Book for a while. Being able to use this artifact alongside his own abilities was something he was greatly looking forward to.
At this moment, Lan Xun’s single sentence of wanting him to return it was something that he truly could not accept. Yet, there would definitely be no happy ending if he did not return it. Nevertheless, Yang Kai knew that if it was a trade, Soul Star Palace would absolutely not resort to brutish tactics.
Raising his head, he looked at Lan Xun, wanting to hear what else she had to say.
“The Golden Armor Heavenly Book can be considered to be Senior Brother Yang’s spoils of war. By that logic, our Star Soul Palace doesn’t have the authority to ask you to return it. Therefore, we have no choice but to inform Senior Brother Yang that the Golden Armor Heavenly Book is not only an Emperor Artifact, but also a key that opens a Sealed World within our Star Soul Palace.”
“A key to open a Sealed World?” Yang Kai gawked in surprise.
“Indeed,” Lan Xun nodded lightly, “Our Star Soul Palace has a Sealed World that is known as the Grand Illusion Realm. It is naturally an Independent Small World, and can only be opened using the Golden Armour Heavenly Book. Both Elder Xiao and Elder Xue know about this too.”
Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao both nodded their heads in confirmation of Lan Xue’s words.
“En, the Grand Illusion Realm is something I too know of,” Wen Zi Shan chimed in from the side, “However, I never imagined that Sealed World would need the Golden Armor Heavenly Book to be accessed.”
“Access to that Sealed World was controlled by Tan Jun Hao. Therefore, the Golden Armor Heavenly Book was assigned to him. With the loss of that key, the Sealed World can no longer be accessed. This is a huge loss for our Star Soul Palace, as that is a place where many of our Star Soul Palace disciples go to train. Even now, there are a few dozen disciples trapped inside, unable to leave.” Lan Xun shot a sincere look at Yang Kai, “Therefore, regardless of anything, Lan Xun hopes that Senior Brother Yang can return the Golden Armor Heavenly Book. Before coming here, Father had informed me that if Senior Brother Yang is willing to return the Golden Armor Heavenly Book, he can choose one of three forms of compensation.”
Yang Kai’s eyes lit up, “What three compensations?”
If Star Soul Palace insisted on taking back the Golden Armor Heavenly Book, Yang Kai would have had no way of keeping it from them. Therefore, he would have no choice but to hand it over regardless. However, Lan Xun mentioning three forms of compensation caused the turmoil in his heart to subside substantially.
“First would be Star Soul Palace will compensate Brother Yang with two hundred million High-Rank Source Crystals!” Lan Xun replied.
Wen Zi Shan’s expression changed immediately.
200 million High-Rank Source Crystals! That was not a small amount.
Most Emperor Artifacts were not worth more than ten or twenty million, with those better grade ones worth around thirty or forty million. 200 million was a very extravagant price to pay for one. Although the Golden Armor Heavenly Book’s worth as an Emperor Artifact definitely did not amount to that, being the key to a Sealed World would definitely drive its value up immensely.
200 million High-Rank Source Crystals was a gargantuan amount that not just anyone could possess. This amount was comparable to the total income of Azure Sun Temple for a number of years.
Even Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao’s expressions lit up upon hearing that amount.
On the contrary, Yang Kai continued to wear a calm expression on his face, as though he had not heard 200 million, but 2 million, or 200 thousand…
The few people present could not help silently nodding their heads in appreciation. In the end, Yang Kai had just broken through to the Emperor Realm, so no matter how many assets he possessed, he couldn’t be overly wealthy in their opinion. Yet, how was it possible for him to remain that unmoved in the face of such enormous wealth?
How could they know that Yang Kai was now in possession of such astonishing wealth that 200 million High-Rank Source Crystals truly did not amount to much for him.
“What about the second compensation?” Yang Kai asked in a calm tone.
The strange glint in Lan Xun’s eyes faded as she replied, “The second compensation… is that you can ask my father three questions. Anything, regardless of what type of question, is allowed.”
Right as those words rang out, Xue Zheng Mao and Xiao Yu Yang’s breathing both turned rapid as a fervent shade blossomed on their faces.
Despite being Elders of Star Soul Palace and possessing great authority that was second only to the Great Emperor, it was still not an easy matter for them to meet the Great Emperor. The Great Emperor was often in retreat, just like a hidden dragon who showed its tail but never its face. Basically, dozens of years might go by before there might be a possibility to meet the Great Emperor, much less being able to personally ask the Great Emperor some questions.
The two of them would definitely be ecstatic if they were able to obtain the opportunity that was now presented to Yang Kai. That was because any cultivator would definitely have many unanswered questions on their Martial Dao. Questions that Masters like them could ask could only be answered by the Great Emperors, so any advice or answer might allow their strength to soar.
Although the second compensation was not as direct as 200 million Source Crystals, it could be said that it was worth much more than the first. Source Crystals could be obtained through time, but an opportunity as good as being able to ask a Great Emperor three questions could only be gifted, not sought.
Even Wen Zi Shan wasn’t able to control his emotions as he turned his head to look at Yang Kai, really hoping the latter would accept this offer right away.
Who would have known that Yang Kai’s expression would still remain calm? After a moment of silence, he continued, “What is the third?”
Lan Xun replied, “The third form of compensation we can offer is allowing you to enter Star Soul Palace’s Five Coloured Treasure Pagoda and cultivate in there for one month.”
Yang Kai nodded his head at these three choices before him. Truthfully speaking, Star Soul Palace had shown much sincerity through this gesture, as any one of those compensations was sufficient for Yang Kai to return the Golden Armor Heavenly Book to them.
“Do I really have to return this Emperor Artifact?” Raising his head, Yang Kai held on to the Golden Armor Heavenly Book as he asked Lan Xun.
An apologetic look appeared on Lan Xun’s face, “Senior Brother Yang, I hope that you can empathize with the several dozen disciples of our Star Soul Palace that are trapped within that Sealed World.”
Without the Golden Armor Heavenly Book, there was no way to open the Grand Illusion Realm, meaning that those several dozen disciples would be forever trapped within.
Yang Kai sighed, before replying, “Then I’ll choose the third option.”
Elation appeared on Lan Xun’s face, though she proceeded to gawk and say, “Why don’t you take a while longer to consider?”
Wen Zi Shan chimed in to advise him too, “That’s right, Yang Kai. There’s no harm in thinking over your decision in detail. Since the Great Emperor has offered you three forms of compensation, he definitely would not force you to make your choice immediately. There is time for you to consider before making your decision.”
Yang Kai shook his head and replied, “There’s no need. I choose the third option.”
Wen Zi Shan’s jaw hung loosely, as though he was unable to say anything in the end.
He thought, if he was in Yang Kai’s position, he would have definitely chosen the second option. Although a trip into the Five Coloured Treasure Pagoda was an extraordinary opportunity, one had to rely on luck to be able to gain within it. If one wasn’t lucky, they wouldn’t be able to harvest anything even if they cultivated for ten years, much less one month. This made it very lacking when compared to being able to ask three questions to the Great Emperor. He also didn’t know what plan Yang Kai had. The only counterargument to his thoughts was that Yang Kai was the final and only decision-maker in this matter. Since the latter had made his choice, it naturally left him in a spot where it was better to not say anything.
Lan Xun was also very surprised by Yang Kai’s choice, as she had obviously assumed that there was over a ninety percent chance of him choosing the second offer. Yet, the development of this matter was moving out of her expectations. Nevertheless, she finally nodded her head and replied, “Then our Star Soul Palace will look forward to your arrival, Senior Brother Yang.”
Yang Kai nodded his head, and with a flick of his Divine Sense, wiped away the Soul Imprint he had engraved within the Golden Armor Heavenly Book in his hand. He then handed the Emperor Artifact to Lan Xun, who proceeded to store it into her Space Ring.
With this matter settled, Wen Zi Shan warmly invited Lan Xun and the others to stay in Azure Sun Temple for a few more days. Nevertheless, both Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao were utterly not in the mood, as they subsequently bade their farewells.
Having completed her mission, Lan Xun wanted to leave as well.
Before she left though, Yang Kai suddenly called out, “Junior Sister Lan, would you mind staying back for a bit? I still have a small personal matter to ask you.”
Lan Xun turned around and let Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao wait outside for her. The two naturally didn’t have any qualms about it while on the contrary, Xiao Chen was adamant on staying behind, a look of hostility covering his face as he did not feel assured leaving Yang Kai alone with Lan Xun.
“Senior Brother Xiao, you can go out first,” Lan Xun shot a commanding look at Xiao Chen.
Xiao Chen opened his mouth, but was unable to say anything when he noticed Lan Xun’s beautiful eyes staring at him firmly. Immediately, his mood deflated while the words he was about to say became stuck in his throat. In the end, he shot an angry glare at Yang Kai before turning around to leave.
After a short while, Lan Xun and Yang Kai were the only ones left within the large palace hall.
Lan Xun smiled lightly and said, “There’s no one here now. What does Senior Brother Yang want to ask?”
Yang Kai replied, “Junior Sister Lan mentioned earlier that you visited Spirit Beast Island not long ago, yes?”
Lan Xun nodded her head, “That’s right. I visited there approximately three months ago when my father brought me to the Eastern Territory after being invited by Senior Martial Beast.”
“Then, did Junior Sister Lan meet Senior Jiu Feng on Spirit Beast Island?” Yang Kai’s expression changed.
“Aunt Jiu Feng?” Lan Xun was surprised by Yang Kai’s question, as she had assumed he had requested a private conversation to ask about Mo Xiao Qi. Who would have known that he wanted to ask about Jiu Feng. According to what she knew, there seemed to be no lines of communication between Yang Kai and Jiu Feng. Shaking her head, she replied, “I did not see her.”
After a short pause, she continued to speak, “However, I’ve heard from Little Sister Xiao Qi that Aunt Jiu Feng has been in a retreat recently, and was not to be disturbed unless absolutely necessary.”
Yang Kai frowned, a pensive look appearing on his face.
Jiu Feng being in retreat undoubtedly had something to do Liu Yan. After coming out of the Shattered Star Sea, Liu Yan had fused with the Phoenix True Fire, transforming into a Phoenix Egg before being brought back to Spirit Beast Island by Jiu Feng. As of now, there was still no news of them. At that time, Jiu Feng had mentioned that it would take at least one year at best, and five years at worst before the results could be seen.
Although there was Jiu Feng standing guard for her, Liu Yan was bearing substantial risk as she received the Fire Phoenix Inheritance, leaving Yang Kai feeling unassured and uneasy about her safety.
Originally, he hoped to be able to glean some news for Lan Xun, though he did not expect for her to have no information on this at all.
Seeing him reveal a disappointed look left Lan Xun with a face full of doubts and confusion, as she did not know what Yang Kai’s relationship with Jiu Feng was.
After turning silent for a while, Yang Kai said, “That’s right, I have another matter that I would like to ask Junior Sister Lan for help with.”
Lan Xun smiled faintly, “Of course, Senior Brother Yang.”
Yang Kai said, “Do you know a person by the name of Hua Qing Si, Junior Sister Lan? She is also a disciple of your Star Soul Palace, and her Master was that Tan Jun Hao…”
…
Half an hour had elapsed before Lan Xun walked out of the palace. The nervously waiting Xiao Chen immediately went forward to greet her, all while sizing her up in anxiousness, afraid that she might have suffered a mishap. After noticing that she was fine, as well as noticing the frustrated look on Yang Kai’s face, his mood instantly turned for the better.
“Senior Brother Yang, you can head to our Star Soul Palace whenever you have the time, and this Junior Sister will warmly welcome your arrival!” Lan Xun turned around to say to Yang Kai.
“Take care, Junior Sister Lan,” Yang Kai nodded his head absentmindedly.
Lan Xun signalled to Xiao Yu Yang and Xue Zheng Mao, before the few of them transformed into streaks of lights that proceeded to shoot across the horizon.
The various guests on Myriads Saint Peak quietly observed the situation.
With the Grand Canonization Ceremony complete and Yang Kai receiving Azure Sun Temple’s Jade Elder Token, from this point onwards, he was an official Elder of Azure Sun Temple. The appointment of an Elder should have been an ordinary matter, but Yang Kai’s display of strength before everyone’s eyes, exchanging a move with Xue Zheng Mao, brought him much fame. Although Yang Kai seemed to have suffered quite a serious injury as a result, that did not take away from the fact that he managed to wound the latter. Regardless of his courage or his strength, either one was enough for people to treat Yang Kai with high regard.
Furthermore, Lan Xun’s arrival had caused a strange atmosphere that hung over the guests, even after the members of Star Soul Palace had left.
Therefore, at this moment, quite a few of the gazes sent towards Yang Kai’s way had changed from before. No longer were they using the gaze a Senior would use towards a Junior. On the contrary, it was one of equals.
After a momentary bout of silence, the atmosphere returned back to its original liveliness through the efforts of the various Azure Sun Temple Elders.
Despite the completion of the Grand Canonization Ceremony, having so many Emperor Realms gathered at one place was a very rare occasion to come by. Furthermore, this happened in the territory of Azure Sun Temple, so they did not dare to neglect their guests.
Wen Zi Shan walked Yang Kai around the tables to exchange toasts, introduce himself, and get to know the various Emperors of the Southern Territory, which might prove useful to him in the future.
As he walked along, Yang Kai recognised quite a few familiar faces in the crowd.
Heavenly Martial Holy Land’s Wu Chang, Orthodoxy Temple’s Zhuang Bu Fan, and Eight Paths Sect’s Luo Yuan were people with whom Yang Kai had crossed paths before.
These rising stars that had radiated with extraordinary brilliance while in the Dao Source Realm had all broken through to the Emperor Realm now.
It was not surprising for Wu Chang and Zhuang Bu Fan, as they were already famous rising stars of the Southern Territory. Both of them possessed considerable status in their respective Sects, just like Xia Sheng in Azure Sun Temple, and had access to cultivation resources and opportunities that far exceeded those of ordinary people.
On the contrary, the Sect that Luo Yuan hailed from, Eight Paths Sect, was just a small force. In fact, it was not even able to rival the Blue Feather Sect that Yang Kai had previously joined. Nevertheless, with his outstanding aptitude and perseverance, Luo Yuan had broken through to the Emperor Realm! He had even assumed command of Eight Paths Sect, becoming its Sect Master!
This fellow’s face was brimming with an intent to fight as he stared at Yang Kai, appearing as though he wanted to duel with Yang Kai the first chance possible.
If not for it being Yang Kai’s celebratory day, Luo Yuan might have already issued a challenge.
After three rounds of drinks and five rounds of food, everyone moved about, exchanging cheers, forming groups and cliques, alongside greetings and pleasantries.
The majority of the Emperors present had brought along their disciples and Juniors to this place, which just so happened to be a good place to open their eyes to the world.
“We meet again, Young Master Yang.” A waft of delicate fragrance blew over, as a curvaceous figure squeezed her way to Yang Kai’s side, before letting out a laugh, “Forgive me, it should be Elder Yang now.”
Yang Kai turned his head over to find a beautiful woman standing elegantly with a wine cup in her hand. Her pretty face was of a ruddy pink shade, a presumed result of alcohol. Even her fair neck had a pink hue to it, creating an exceedingly alluring sight to behold.
“Palace Master Hua!” Recognizing this woman immediately, Yang Kai gave a faint smile and raised his cup in recognition.
“This Mistress offers this toast in gratitude for you saving my life,” Hua Yu Lu raised her cup and drained it in a single gulp.
Although this Hundred Flowers Palace Palace Master appeared delicate and fragile to the point where a gust of wind would cause her to topple over, she displayed a boldness that did not pale in comparison to any man. Having drained the cup in a single gulp, the shade of her face grew even more flushed than before.
“You’re too courteous, Palace Master Hua. On the contrary, the matter with Tan Jun Hao caused Palace Master Hua to be questioned by Star Soul Palace.” Yang Kai smiled lightly and drank some of the wine in his cup.
Hua Yu Lu shook her head and replied, “That wasn’t much trouble, as it was just a few questions. This Mistress simply told them the truth. Did it cause any trouble for Elder Yang?”
Yang Kai laughed and said, “Palace Master Hua’s truthful words helped me, so how could it bring trouble to me?”
Hua Yu Lu revealed a look of relief, before turning her head to glance at her surroundings before asking in a soft voice, “Why is there no sign of Xia Sheng here?”
Previously, when they had met in Flowing Shadow City, Hua Yu Lu mentioned that she was a friend of Xia Sheng’s, and from the looks of it now, these two seemed to be old acquaintances indeed. If not, she wouldn’t care this much about his presence, or lack thereof.
“Senior Brother Xia is currently stationed at Spirit Lake Palace. I’m afraid that he might be unable to come back in the near future,” Yang Kai replied. “If Palace Master Hua wishes to find Senior Brother Xia, you can take a trip to Spirit Lake Palace to pay him a visit.”
“Is that so…” A look of disappointment appeared on Hua Yu Lu’s face.
Right as she was about to say something, Gao Xue Ting suddenly walked over with a cold look on her face.
Hua Yu Lu immediately said, “Elder Yang still has other matters to attend to, so this Mistress will not disturb you further,” before turning around and leaving.
“How are your injuries?” Gao Xue Ting moved to Yang Kai’s side and asked in a soft voice, though her eyes remained fixed at Hua Yu Lu’s retreating figure.
“They’re fine,” Yang Kai replied.
If any other First-Order Emperor Realm Masters took Xue Zheng Mao’s palm to their chest, they would have to lie in bed for at least a few days. It might even be possible that they would be killed on the spot; however, with his exceedingly strong and sturdy body, coupled with the Great Soaring Black Dragon Armor he had worn, Yang Kai only suffered a few broken bones as a result of the blow, with not much damage done to his organs. He would recover from such an injury within a day or two even if he didn’t do anything about it at all.
“How do you know that woman?” Gao Xue Ting shot a question out abruptly, a look of disdain present on her face.
Yang Kai replied, “I exchanged greetings with her once in Flowing Shadow City. What about her?”
“Nothing. If you’re still injured, you should go and recuperate rather than mingle with a dubious and shady figure like her.”
Dubious and shady figure…
Gao Xue Ting seemed to have a very big issue with Hua Yu Lu. After realizing this, Yang Kai did not dare to ask her more about the details.
With a flicker, Gao Xue Ting snatched away the wine cup in his hand, before saying, “There will be an exchange meeting between Emperors in the evening. Good things can appear there, so you should take a look if you’re interested.”
“Exchange meeting?” Yang Kai was indeed interested in it.
Gao Xue Ting nodded and replied, “It is rare for so many Emperor Realms to be gathered in a single place, so everyone naturally wants to take this opportunity to make connections, regardless of it being useful or not. This is also something that the Temple Master wishes to see, so the exchange meeting will be hosted by our Azure Sun Temple. That’s right, you can take anything you do not need to exchange as well.”
“Good, call me when it’s time,” Yang Kai nodded his head.
“Go on,” Gao Xue Ting waved her hand in response.
With the end of the Grand Canonization, Yang Kai was now a full-fledged Elder of Azure Sun Temple. However, due to the time constraints brought about by the whole series of events, he still did not have his own residence, so he naturally could only return to Purple Bamboo Peak.
Yang Kai took the next half a day to adjust his breathing to recover from his injuries. By the time night had fallen, his injuries were almost fully healed.
The communication artifact beside him vibrated slightly at that point. Extending his hand out to grab it, Yang Kai swept it with his Divine Sense before standing up.
The location of the exchange meeting was still Myriad Saints Peak, though this time the event was held inside the main palace. The various attendees should have already received the news of this exchange meeting, so only a few of the guests from earlier had left Azure Sun Temple. If not for urgent matters that required their attention, even those who left absolutely wouldn’t have missed an exchange meeting like this.
A few Azure Sun Temple disciples were standing at the doors to welcome the guests, and upon seeing Yang Kai, respectful looks appeared on their faces as they bowed their heads and shouted, “Greetings, Elder Yang.”
Yang Kai nodded his head in response, before walking in with huge strides.
Sweeping his eyes across the room, Yang Kai noticed that the palace was already filled with people. The guests that were here for the Grand Canonization Ceremony during the day were basically all present, with over a hundred Emperors accompanied by their Disciples or descendants they had brought along.
Although there were many people present here, everything was neat and orderly, devoid of the usual bustle from a crowd. Although conversations were occurring throughout the place, everyone was doing so privately with whispered voices.
The interior of the palace was brightly lit, making it seem as though it was daytime.
“Over here!”
As Yang Kai was looking around to find a place to sit, Gao Xue Ting’s voice suddenly rang in his ears. Looking over to the source of the sound, Yang Kai noticed Gao Xue Ting seated at the left side of the palace, beckoning to him.
With a faint smile, Yang Kai walked over to her.
That place seemed to be the area where the Azure Sun Temple Elders were seated, as other than Gao Xue Ting, there was also Chen Qian, Di Rong, and You Kun present. Seeing Yang Kai walk over, all of them revealed kind smiles on their faces.
Yang Kai exchanged greetings with everyone before sitting down at Gao Xue Ting’s side.
“Junior Brother, have you participated in such an exchange meeting before?” Gao Xue Ting suddenly turned her head over to him and asked.
Yang Kai stared blankly at her for a while, before looking to his other side. Noticing that there was no one there, he snapped back to his senses and looked back towards Gao Xue Ting, “Elder Gao, are you talking to me?”
Gao Xue Ting laughed and replied, “Who other than you do you think I’m talking to? Ghosts?”
Chen Qian, who sat by Gao Xue Ting’s side, covered her mouth to let off a soft laugh before explaining, “Yang Kai, you’ve broken through to the Emperor Realm and are now an official Elder of the temple, so you naturally have to be treated as an equal. This is the rule of our temple.”
An awkward look appeared on Yang Kai’s face as he scratched his head in response, “It may take me a while to adapt.”
Earlier today, he had placed himself in the status of a disciple before Gao Xue Ting, but now he had suddenly become her Junior Brother, which was a huge jump in position. This jump was a little too sudden and significant for him to wrap his head around.
Nevertheless, as he thought about it, everything made sense. At this moment, be it his cultivation or status, he was not one bit inferior to Gao Xue Ting and the other Elders, so he indeed possessed the qualifications to be considered an equal.
“Let me hear you call me Senior Sister!” Gao Xue Ting wore a serious expression on her face as she looked at Yang Kai.
“Senior Sister Gao!” Yang Kai said with a grin, showing his exceedingly strong adaptability.
“So obedient. It’s a pity there’s no reward.” The corners of Gao Xue Ting’s mouth curled up in response, before she followed up with another question, “So, have you participated in an exchange meeting before?’
“No,” Yang Kai shook his head. Although he had participated in quite a few auctions, he had only heard rumours of such exchange meetings. “Nevertheless, I know the basic rules, which is a barter trade.”
“That’s correct.” Gao Xue Ting nodded her head. “When one’s cultivation reaches the Emperor Realm, Source Crystals become less important and valuable. There are many good things that cannot be bought with Source Crystals; therefore, everyone generally prefers to conduct direct barter trading. Naturally, this does not mean that people would not take out Source Crystals to trade, though everything depends on the conditions set by the owner of the treasure.”
Yang Kai committed every one of Gao Xue Ting’s words to heart as he continued to nod his head, his humble stance causing Gao Xue Ting to be exceedingly satisfied with him.
After a moment, the great doors of the Myriad Saints Palace creaked, before closing shut with a bang.
Yang Kai knew that this exchange meeting was about to start.
Indeed, as soon as the palace doors closed shut, an elderly man flew up to the stage. This was not an outsider, but Azure Sun Temple’s Vice Temple Master, Qiu Ran.
Being the organizer and host, Azure Sun Temple naturally needed to be the first one to grace the stage and stir the crowd up.
After a soft cough, Qiu Ran spoke, “Many thanks to all the friends gathered here to attend tonight’s exchange meeting. This Old Master wishes for everyone to be able to obtain what they want and return from a rewarding journey. There’s not much more to say about the rules, so let the exchange meet begin. Our Azure Sun Temple will start things off and hopes for everyone to be able to offer up good items here.”
With a wave of his hand, a jade bottle appeared. Raising it slightly, Qiu Ran said, “This is an Extreme Soul Tempering Pill, a Low-Rank Emperor Grade Spirit Pill. This pill is for Emperors to consume, and upon refining its efficacies, it will allow a huge surge in one’s Spiritual Energy, enabling one to display one’s Soul Techniques with greater effectiveness. There are three pills within the bottle and only Source Crystals are accepted. Everyone, please make your bids.”
Right as his words rang out, the faces of the greater majority of the Emperors present changed.
This could not be helped, as those were Emperor Pills!
Emperor Pills were absolutely not easy to be chanced upon. Only Emperor Alchemists were capable of refining Emperor Pills, yet how many Emperor Alchemists were there in the entire Star Boundary? Even a great Sect like the Azure Sun Temple did not have their own personal Emperor Alchemist.
The Violet Source Chamber of Commerce had an Emperor Alchemist amongst its ranks; however, Grandmaster Huang Fu’s Alchemy schedule was already packed full to the brim. Even if someone wanted him to refine a pill, they would need to wait in line for a few years at least before getting their chance.
Among the Star Boundary, Spirit Pills beneath the Emperor Grade were still a common sight as there was still a substantial number of Dao Source Grade Alchemists out there. Nevertheless, things like Emperor Pills were basically rarities.
Yet now, Azure Sun Temple actually took out three Extreme Soul Tempering Pills, which was more than sufficient to show their sincerity.
Furthermore, only allowing Source Crystals as bids allowed all of the Emperors present to participate.
Therefore, right as Qiu Ran finished with his words, bids were announced in rapid succession, with the old bid being outbid immediately after being called. In a moment, an extremely lively atmosphere akin to a flea market appeared inside Myriad Saint Palace, as every Emperor present shouted until their faces and necks turned red, a display of their exertion in the bidding process.
Nevertheless, those pills seemed to have not much of a use for the Emperors from Azure Sun Temple.
That was because Azure Sun Temple possessed the Divine Ascension Mirror!
When he had first arrived at Azure Sun Temple, Wen Zi Shan had told Yang Kai that the cultivators of their Azure Sun Temple possessed Soul cultivations superior to their fellow cultivators in the same realm. The reason for this was the Divine Ascension Mirror.
The Divine Ascension was a Sealed World used for the improvement of one’s Spiritual Energy. As long as the Emperor Realms of the temple could go in once to cultivate, the result would be countless times more effective compared to this Extreme Soul Tempering Pill.
If they wanted to increase their Spiritual Energy, they would just need to enter the Divine Ascension Mirror, without the need to consume any Emperor Pills at all.
In other words, the Extreme Soul Tempering Pill might really not be of much value to the Emperor Realms of Azure Sun Temple. One could immediately realize this just by seeing the indifferent expressions present on the faces of Chen Qian and the others.
After realizing this, Yang Kai laughed quietly in his heart.
“5 million!” A person’s voice rang out before the entire place turned silent.
The bid of 5 million High-Rank Source Crystals immediately halted all of the other Emperor Realms in their tracks, as this price was basically the extreme limit that one would pay for those pills. People who were capable of cultivating all the way to the Emperor Realm were not stupid, and thus would naturally not recklessly toss away their Source Crystals; after all, this was just the beginning of the exchange meet, and who knew what good things might come up later.
In the end, the three Extreme Soul Tempering Pills were sold to a red-robed old man who bid five million High-Rank Source Crystals.
The red-robed old man seemed to be the Sect Master of a third class Sect and was surnamed Yu, though Yang Kai was unable to remember his given name. Earlier, he had exchanged greetings with this red-robed old man after being dragged around by Wen Zi Shan for a round of celebratory toasting. Nevertheless, despite his outstanding memory, Yang Kai was unable to remember the names of faces of over a hundred Emperors while slightly intoxicated.
It also could be attributed to his lack of motivation to remember.
Following up, Qiu Ran pulled out another two treasures, and just like the Extreme Soul Tempering Pills earlier, they were sold off for only Source Crystals. This created a wave of loud hustling among the Emperor Realm participants before the bids were won by a man and a woman at high prices.
After those three treasures, the atmosphere within this exchange meet had been ignited.
When Qiu Ran left the stage, the red-robed old man that had won the bid for the Extreme Soul Tempering Pills earlier took the lead and scuttled up onto the stage. Raising his hands, he greeted the people present with a grin, “This old man greets fellow friends.”
As he said that, with a wave of his hand, a scarlet red fruit appeared on his palm, “This is a 3,000-year-old Blue Blood Scarlet Dragon Fruit, and I am looking to trade this for Water Attribute Spirit Herb or Emperor Pill of equal value.”
Right as the Blue Blood Scarlet Dragon Fruit was brought out, a unique fragrance wafted across the interior of the palace, with anyone who smelled it feeling as though they were filled with life and vitality, causing a shock to their minds.
All of the Emperors present here were people with acute senses and mental faculties, so they knew that this Blue Blood Scarlet Dragon Fruit was an exceedingly rare treasure. This obviously moved the hearts of quite a few people, especially those who cultivated a Fire Attribute Secret Art or Technique, who now had flushed looks on their faces.
Five Space Rings were immediately tossed out silently from below the stage.
Receiving them, the red-robed old man examined their contents. A pensive look appeared on his face before he finally chose one of the rings. Returning the other rings, he walked off the stage and handed the Blue Blood Scarlet Dragon Fruit to the owner of the ring he had chosen.
With the red-robed old man giving a good example, the exchanges that followed suit grew increasingly lively, moving along at a rapid pace.
As one Emperor stepped down, he or she would immediately be replaced by another Emperor, retrieving the item they wanted to exchange, and listing out their exchange criteria.
Other than the rare person who was too greedy or had overly demanding requests, the rest of the Emperors were all able to obtain the items that they wanted.
Yang Kai remained seated all the while, with no intention of participating in the exchanges for the time being. However, he was enjoying the meeting with relish. As he was now, despite his great wealth with ordinary treasures not catching his eye at all, being able to watch the various kinds of strange and exotic treasures brought out in this exchange meeting, with every one of them being the precious gems of these Emperor Realms, widened his perspective greatly. This experience greatly expanded his knowledge, allowing him to recognize these treasures should they appear before him in the future.
Even Chen Qian and Di Rong, Elders of Azure Sun Temple, had personally taken to the stage and exchanged their treasures for things that they wanted from the participating Emperor Realms.
Although some people might be at a slight disadvantage in such an exchange, it was truthfully harmless; after all, if the disparity in value between the exchanged treasures was too great, it could just be balanced out using Source Crystals. Since everyone present here were sharp-eyed, no one would let themselves suffer too much of a loss in an exchange, so it was naturally impossible to pick up a bargain here.
“Is there anything that catches your eye?” Gao Xue Ting suddenly asked.
Yang Kai shook his head, “Let’s continue watching.”
“If there’s anything you’re interested in, go and inform your Senior Sister Chen. Your Senior Sister Chen controls our temple’s storehouse so she should be able to exchange a thing or two for you. This can be considered a little gift for your conferment as an Elder of our temple.”
As the two were chatting, a peculiar fluctuation suddenly rippled from the stage.
Everyone turned their eyes over swiftly, only to see a middle-aged man on the stage with a transparent bottle in his hand. Some liquid seemed to be sloshing slightly within the bottle, with the strange energy fluctuation that rippled out earlier precisely coming from the contents of that bottle.
“That’s…”
Yang Kai’s eyes lit up, as he was faintly able to guess what that thing was. Right as he was dwelling in his thoughts, a surprised gasp rang out by the side of his ear, “Supreme Divine Water!”
A commotion rose within the Emperor Realms present as everyone’s eyes glowed brighter by a few degrees as they stared at the liquid within the bottle.
Indeed, it was Supreme Divine Water. Yang Kai had also managed to recognize the item.
He had indeed bumped into this treasure before. Back then, he had managed to see a drop of Supreme Divine Water while in the Flowing Time Temple within the Four Seasons Realm. Nevertheless, that drop had ended up in Murong Xiao Xiao’s hands, and he did not know if it had been used up or not.
In the Star Boundary, there were Three Great Divine Waters; the Soul Cleansing Divine Water, the Life Revitalizing Jade Cream, and the Immortal Source Liquid. Each one of these was a naturally formed product and possessed immense benefits to cultivators.
Yang Kai had obtained all of the Three Great Divine Waters at one point or another in the past; however, there was another kind of Divine Water out there. Although it was not considered to be part of the Three Great Divine Waters, its value and efficacy were not inferior to theirs.
It was precisely the Supreme Divine Water!
Its use was in the maturation of Spirit Herbs, but wasn’t useful if consumed directly by a cultivator. This resulted in its exclusion from the Great Divine Waters, though no one could dispute its preciousness.
If a Spirit Herb was nourished by a drop of Supreme Divine Water, it would undergo a rapid maturation, increasing its medicinal age drastically. A single year’s worth of growth would be sufficient to reach a medicinal age of thousands of years compared to other Spirit Medicines. Furthermore, it posed absolutely no harm to the Spirit Herb, as though it had simply grown naturally.
The Supreme Divine Water was also the Divine Water that Alchemists would most hope to obtain. Imagine, if a precious Spirit Medicine needed a thousand years to reach maturity but could be instantly cultivated to its full potential next year if it were fed with a drop of the Supreme Divine Water, readying it for use in Alchemy.
The medicine garden in Yang Kai’s Small Sealed World had a large amount of Heavy Earth as well as quite a few Earth Vein Crystals, which aided in promoting the growth of Spirit Herbs. There were many Spirit Herbs that were being grown within the Sealed World Bead’s medicine garden, with a year of growth there being able to match a hundred years in the outside world, making it have a similar effect to the Supreme Divine Water. Nevertheless, Yang Kai was still incomparably attracted to the Supreme Divine Water.
That was because the Firmament Tree needed the Supreme Divine Water to expedite the development of its sealing capabilities.
The sealing strength present within the gold and silver Firmament Tree was able to seal the Ancient Demon Qi within Yang Kai’s body; however, if Yang Kai were to display his Demon Transformation technique, the seal would be broken. When that happened, he would need to rely on the strength of the Firmament Tree to reseal the Demon Qi. If not, he would be destined to devolve into a Demon.
The amount of Supreme Divine Water present in the man’s hand was not much, three to five drops at most. In other people’s hands, this was capable of only promoting the growth of a few stalks of precious Spirit Herbs. However, it might be able to save Yang Kai’s life during critical moments.
As he weighed those thoughts in his head, Yang Kai reached a decision.
The man on the stage took a look around before giving a faint smile, “I think there’s no need for this one to describe the benefits of this Supreme Divine Water, as everyone should already understand its value. However, I don’t need Source Crystals, just a suitable exchange.”
Those words sounded somewhat overly crafty, as he did not set any conditions for the exchange. Yet, it gave people a feeling as though he was trying to take advantage of this exchange meeting, causing many of the Emperors present to feel displeasure at his actions. Nevertheless, that was his property, and he was the only person that could decide whether he would want to exchange it or not. Therefore, despite the displeasure they felt in their hearts, they had no other choice but to suck it up and bid.
After a moment of silence, Space Ring after Space Ring flew towards the stage. Clearly, those rings were filled with items people wanted to exchange for this man’s Supreme Divine Water.
Yang Kai had also filled his Space Ring with some items, which he felt would absolutely be enough to show his sincerity! He had too many items in his hands, so he did not mind taking a slight loss in the exchange. As long as he was able to obtain the Supreme Divine Water, it would be worth the price.
The middle-aged man proceeded to observe the items present in each one of the Space Rings, before returning them to their owners below the stage. This caused quite a few Emperor Realms to reveal looks of disappointment as they clenched their teeth in silence, all while thinking how utterly greedy the fellow on the stage was.
All of them had assumed that the items they had placed in their Space Ring were more than sufficient to be exchanged for those drops of Supreme Divine Water, yet their Space Rings had been promptly returned.
When it came time for Yang Kai’s Space Ring, the middle-aged man shot a look at it, though he did not return it immediately after doing so. Instead, he muttered to himself, held it in his hand, before continuing to search through the other Space Rings.
His actions caused Yang Kai’s brow to twitch as he knew that the items he had placed in his Space Ring were sufficient to fulfil the middle-aged man’s demands, though the latter had yet to make his decision.
After a short while, the middle-aged man’s eye lit up upon searching through another Space Ring. Without any hesitation at all, he proceeded to throw Yang Kai’s Space Ring back.
Yang Kai’s face turned black as he gloomily grabbed his Space Ring.
He felt that he had already offered a very good deal for the exchange, as it was impossible for other people to offer anything higher than the price of the items he had placed in the Space Ring. Yet, the owner of the Supreme Divine Water had declined his offer.
Since that had happened, there could only be two reasons. The first one was that another person had offered a trade of greater value than what Yang Kai had offered. Nevertheless, the possibility of this was not high, as no one present here was wealthier than Yang Kai! This only left the second possibility, which was that the other person had offered items that the middle-aged man needed urgently, leading to this result.
“Many thanks for everyone’s participation. This one has decided to proceed with the exchange with this friend.” After finishing his inspection of all the Space Rings, the middle-aged man gave a faint smile before tossing the bottle of Supreme Divine Water down from the stage.
A person extended his hand and grabbed it, before storing it in his Space Ring.
Yang Kai shot a look at that person, silently committing his appearance to memory.
The exchange meeting continued on, with good items popping up from time to time, attracting fervent reactions from everyone present. Nevertheless, with everyone present being an Emperor Realm Master, they couldn’t lose their heads over those treasures. Therefore, regardless of how fiery the atmosphere and the bidding became, the exchange meeting continued on in an organized and orderly fashion.
Basically everyone was able to obtain the items they were interested in, with only a small minority leaving empty-handed in disappointment.
After an hour, a short old man walked up to the stage. Present on his face was an amicable smile, giving people a good impression of him. Opening his mouth, he spoke, “This old man doesn’t have anything too good to exchange. Nevertheless, having come here, I can’t just return empty-handed, so I wish to share a little something with everyone.”
As he said those words, he retrieved an item that looked like a cosmetics box from his Space Ring.
The item was not large, approximately the size of one’s palm. It was exquisitely and beautifully crafted, its exterior gleaming and sparkling with soft light. This caused the eyes of quite a few of the women present here to light up.
However, the people present knew that this box was definitely not a cosmetics box, as an Emperor Realm Master would not take out an ordinary item in such a situation.
Divine Senses came sweeping over as people inspected the interior of the box, but after a short instant, weird looks appeared on the faces of quite a few Emperors.
“Everyone, please take a look!” The old man gave a faint smile and cracked open the lid of the box.
In the next instant, a soft and gentle ringing sound rang out from the box, forming a simple, yet mysterious song. The sounds seemed to contain a peculiar strength that caressed the soul like an invisible jade white hand, calming everyone’s flustered and impatient hearts and allowing their moods to become calm and tranquil.
The Emperors were still alright when the music began to play, but the descendants and disciples that they had brought here reacted differently. The weaker their cultivation realms were, the greater the reaction. An Origin King Realm Junior was actually unable to control himself and let out a soft groan, while a look of satisfaction appeared on his face. Furthermore, a glorious light sparkled within his eyes, as though he had comprehended something.
As the ringing sounds continued, the box started to extend upwards. When this happened, the audience was able to see that the box was not some cosmetics container, but an item that appeared just like a pagoda. After extending upwards, a pagoda-like shape took form, extending roughly three hands into the air, with nine distinct levels to it.
Every level was rotating independently; some of them were turning to the left, and others to the right, some of them rotating quickly, while the others did so slowly. Following their revolutions, the music gradually started to change, though it still sounded as beautiful as before.
By the time the pagoda had completely formed, a hazy mist started to develop around it. An azure blue shade tinted the haze before it quickly spread through the interior of the hall.
As people raised their heads to look up and noticed a starry sky with a million twinkling points of light had replaced the ceiling of the palace.
The place the audience was in now did not seem to be within the Myriad Saints Palace, but among the incomparably vast starry sky. Extending their hands, they felt as though they could make contact with the stars, giving people an exceedingly strange and miraculous feeling.
The faces of the Emperors present grew serious as they gradually sensed how miraculous this treasure box was. Each of them started to ponder on what kind of price they would pay to obtain it.
*Huala…*
As a soft sound rang out and the starry skies shattered before dissipating away. The incomparably beautiful scenery returned back to a blank ceiling, disappearing alongside the melodious music as the treasure box slowly closed up, turning back into its original box shape, looking all too ordinary as it had before.
Those Dao Source Realm and Origin King Realm Juniors instantly snapped back to their senses. As they did so, starving looks appeared on their faces as flames erupted within their eyes as they stared fervently at the treasure box.
Holding on to the treasure box, the old man gave a faint smile and spoke, “This is the Heavenly Music Treasure Box. The heavenly melody it produces alongside its illusionary projection has great benefits to cultivators at or below the Dao Source Realm, allowing them to achieve twice the result in their cultivation with half the effort. Furthermore, there are absolutely no negative side effects to it. This treasure box was obtained by this Old Master by chance during my youth and has been accompanying me since the Saint Realm. Over the past thousand years, it played a huge role in forging this Old Master’s present accomplishments.”
After hearing the old man’s explanation, the audience was able to reaffirm their guesses. Although the Emperor Realm Masters present were not able to sense the miraculous effects of this Heavenly Music Treasure Box, they were able to deduce it from the reactions of their descendants and disciples, that this treasure was indeed extremely beneficial for cultivators with lower cultivations. By providing strange and miraculous music as well as a beautiful illusionary realm, it brought significant gains to all those cultivators who cultivated under its influence.
This was not something that Spirit Pills could substitute, as every Spirit Pill would contain some traces of impurities within it. Although it would not have any effect when consumed sparingly, it would not be advantageous to a cultivator’s growth if consumed in large quantities. However, the Heavenly Music Treasure Box was different, as every benefit it offered was completely pure.
This audience was now even more interested in the creator of such a treasure.
Furthermore, from the words of the old man, they knew that this Heavenly Music Treasure Box had accompanied him for the past thousand years. From this, they knew that this treasure was not something that current Artifact Refiners could refine. It was extremely likely that this item was refined a long time ago, and might even have been refined in ancient antiquity.
The old man continued to speak, “Truthfully speaking, this old man was not willing to take this treasure out to exchange. However… this old man is single, has no descendants, and has no disciples; therefore, this Heavenly Music Treasure Box will be just like a pearl covered in dust if it continues to accompany this Old Master. Thus, this Old Master hopes that it can display its strength once again, as a form of gratitude for the many years it has helped him.”
This old man’s words sounded somewhat depressing, though it caused a shock to ripple in the hearts of the audience upon hearing his words.
Generally speaking, the path of a cultivator like this old man, without a Sect or any strong background would definitely be filled with challenges, difficulties, and hurdles. This would limit one’s accomplishments in the grand scheme of things, making it even more difficult to reach the Emperor Realm compared to other people.
However, as of now, this old man was an Emperor Realm Master, and it was highly likely that this Heavenly Music Treasure Box played a large role in that.
“Nevertheless, there is a matter that this Old Master has to let all of you know. Although this Heavenly Music Treasure Box is a miraculous treasure, it is absolutely ineffective towards Emperors. In fact, its effectiveness is greatly reduced even for those in the Dao Source Realm. Only those below the Dao Source Realm will be able to fully enjoy the benefits of this Heavenly Music Treasure Box.”
Appearing to be an honest person, the old man did not conceal any information and explained the quirks and features of the Heavenly Music Treasure Box.
Nevertheless, what was there to be wary of?
The Emperor Realms present here were not solitary existences like this old man, almost all of them belonging to great forces that had innumerable members below the Dao Source Realm.
Take Azure Sun Temple for example. This top Sect had cultivators of all cultivation realms, with one able to find a bunch of Dao Source Realms at any given moment. These people would greatly benefit from the Heavenly Music Treasure Box.
If Azure Sun Temple was able to obtain the Heavenly Music Treasure Box, their disciples in the Dao Source Realm and below would have one more advantage in their cultivation path.
This treasure had incomparably massive appeal for Sects and Families.
Therefore, some people could not help but to ask right after the old man finished his explanation, “Old Lu, can we know what you want in exchange for this Heavenly Music Treasure Box?”
“That’s right, Old Lu. Give a price!”
There were even some Sect Masters that were secretly sending transmissions to Old Lu. In fact, some Elders and even Vice Sect Masters were hoping that he could join their Sect. Nevertheless, they were bound to be disappointed as people like Old Lu were innumerable throughout the Star Boundary. Some of them would never chance upon any opportunities, and might be lacking in aptitude, which left them unable to join any Sect. However, some of them preferred to be wild and free like the cranes flying through the clouds, not willing to be fettered or bound by any force.
Without a doubt, Old Lu was the latter sort of person. If not, with his Emperor Realm cultivation, he would definitely be welcomed by any Sect should he wish to join. In fact, even Azure Sun Temple would give him a position should he request for it.
After a while, Old Lu finally replied, “A few years ago, this Old Master started to cultivate a certain Secret Technique that requires Monster Cores. Therefore, this Old Master hopes to exchange this Heavenly Music Treasure Box for Monster Beast Cores.”
“Monster Beast Cores!” Both looks of happiness and looks of worry appeared across the audience upon hearing his reply.
“This Old Master needs Monster Cores, and they need to be Monster Cores from Twelfth-Order Monster Beasts. Furthermore, this Old Master wishes to exchange for two sets of Five Elements Monster Cores!”
“Five Elements Monster Cores?”
“Moreover, two sets?”
Shocked cries rang out, as frowns appeared on the faces of many Emperors, as they felt that this Old Lu was trying to take the lion’s share from this exchange.
Twelfth-Order Monster Beast Cores! Even if they were Low-Rank ones, each one of them was worth at least two or three million High-Rank Source Crystals. A full set of Five Elements Monster Cores would have to be comprised of Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth Attributes, with prices ranging from ten to fifteen million Source Crystals. Furthermore, the price would be higher if they were to come in a complete set, pushing the price up to around twenty million.
A full set of Five Elements Monster Cores would be twenty million, while two sets would reach forty million in price!
Although the Heavenly Music Treasure Box was extraordinary, it was only useful for cultivators at or below the Dao Source Realm. Who would be willing to spend a few tens of millions of High-Rank Source Crystals to buy this? It wasn’t to say that they didn’t have that many High-Rank Source Crystals, but even if they did, this was not economical.
Therefore, the Emperor Realm Masters that were originally interested in the Heavenly Music Treasure Box immediately proceeded to curse under their breaths after hearing Old Lu’s reply.
Nevertheless, there were quite a few people that proceeded to cast their gazes towards Qiu Ran and the few Azure Sun Temple Elders present.
The Emperors present definitely could not take two sets of Five Elements Monster Cores. Therefore, the only people that could pay such a price would be the hosts of this exchange meet, Azure Sun Temple.
The audience immediately realized that Old Lu had taken out his Heavenly Music Treasure Box in this exchange meeting solely to deal with Azure Sun Temple. If even Azure Sun Temple wasn’t able to satisfy his request, there was no choice but for this exchange to fall through.
Indeed, Spiritual Energy started to surge between the Elders of Azure Sun Temple, a clear indication of them communicating amongst themselves.
After a short moment, Qiu Ran shook his head slowly.
A disappointed look instantly appeared on Old Lu’s face.
“The temple doesn’t want this treasure box?” Yang Kai asked Gao Xue Ting.
Being a High-Rank Guest Elder of the temple, he did not possess any authority or decision-making power on matters that concerned the benefits of the temple. That was why Qiu Ran and the others did not include him in their discussion on this matter.
“The price is too high. Furthermore, our temple does not have a full set of Five Elements Monster Cores,” Gao Xue Ting replied.
It wasn’t common to come across a Twelfth-Order Monster Beast Core, much less a full set. Although Azure Sun Temple had a few dozen Twelfth-Order Monster Beast Cores in their storehouses with rather good grades, they were lacking Earth Attribute ones. Therefore, they naturally were not able to satisfy Old Lu’s requirements.
“If the temple doesn’t want it, I’ll take it,” Yang Kai grinned.
Gao Xue Ting looked at him strangely, “You have two sets of Five Elements Monster Cores?”
“I have to discuss with him whether I have them or not,” Yang Kai smiled faintly in response before looking towards the stage and saying, “Old Lu, take a look and see if this meets your request.”
After saying that, he raised his hand and tossed a Space Ring out.
Receiving it, Old Lu swept his Divine Sense over it. A look of happiness quickly appeared on his face, before being followed up with a frown as he replied, “Elder Yang, this seems to be slightly lacking.”
The Space Ring contained a set of Five Elements Twelfth-Order Monster Cores; however, there was only one such set. As the remaining two sets, they were made up of Eleventh-Order High-Rank cores.
Yang Kai shook his head and replied, “Twelfth-Order Monster Beast Cores, and moreover a full set? How could that be easy to obtain? Even these cores were something I obtained by chance. Old Lu, would you be willing to compromise and accept them? If not, we can only end things here.”
As they heard his reply, everyone immediately understood that the items Yang Kai had sent might not have reached Old Lu’s requirements; however, it should have also met some of them, which explained the latter’s hesitation.
Old Lu turned silent, not giving an immediate reply.
As he was hesitating though, Yang Kai sent him a Divine Sense Message, “However, I have some news that I can relay to Old Lu that concerns Twelfth-Order Monster Beast Cores.”
“What?”
“Every half a year from now, there will be two Twelfth-Order Monster Cores that will appear at the Violet Source Chamber of Commerce in Maplewood City. There will even be High-Rank ones. If you pay close attention, Old Lu, you might even be able to obtain another set there in time.”
“How do you know about this news?” Old Lu was surprised.
[Those Monster Cores are going to be provided by me, so how would I not know about them?] Yang Kai quipped to himself.
Keeping such information to himself though, he replied, “I have an intimate friendship with one of the Managers of that branch of Violet Source Chamber of Commerce. This is something that he informed me about.”
“Good, good, good.” Old Lu smiled happily. If the matter was as Yang Kai had mentioned, he would not need to be in a rush to obtain the two sets of Five Elements Monster Cores he required. Instead, he could cultivate using the first set first, before obtaining the second set, piece by piece.
“We can go ahead with the exchange. However, this Old Master wishes for Elder Yang to supplement me with a million High-Rank Source Crystals. After all, there is still a large disparity between the value of these items and this Old Master’s price.”
This old fellow seemed simple and honest, yet had such a black heart! Yang Kai cursed silently, before replying with much thought at all, “Five hundred thousand.”
Old Lu turned silent for a while, appearing to be deliberating over this matter, before finally nodding his head, “Good.”
Yang Kai proceeded to send five hundred thousand High-Rank Source Crystals over before obtaining the Heavenly Music Treasure Box from Old Lu, which he shoved into his Space Ring.
“Junior Brother, you’re willing to spend so much for the temple even though you had just become an Elder! Senior Sister really has to thank you on behalf of the many disciples of our temple. When they cultivate in the future, they will definitely remember your benevolence,” Gao Xue Ting’s voice suddenly drilled into Yang Kai’s ear.
Yang Kai’s face turned black upon hearing her words. Turning his head around, he noticed that Gao Xue Ting was focused on the stage, not appearing to be talking to him at all.
“This… Senior Sister Gao, this treasure box is mine…”
Turning her head over, Gao Xue Ting’s gaze turned chilly, “Hmm?”
Yang Kai immediately corrected his words, “It’s naturally not an issue if the temple’s disciples need it.”
Only now did Gao Xue Ting nod her head, “You’re too thoughtful, Junior Brother.”
Yang Kai let off a dry laugh, feeling as though his mouth had been stuffed with bitter medicine, with him pondering silently how to reach a compromise…
There were still quite a few treasures that graced the stage in the exchange meet, with many Emperor Realms taking turns to walk up and present the treasures they had kept for many years, whipping the audience into a frenzy time and time again. However, being in the territory of Azure Sun Temple, everyone still maintained order, keeping their manners when exchanges failed, with no one daring to incite any trouble.
Yang Kai took action a few times and obtained a few precious items, including an ancient pill recipe.
This continued all the way to the morning of the second day before the exchange meeting finally finished. Everyone then proceeded to stand up before the host, Qiu Ran represented the higher-ups of Azure Sun Temple and cordially invited everyone to remain as a guest. Nevertheless, no one really wanted to remain and everyone proceeded to say their goodbyes.
Not long after, the hundred or so Emperors brought along their descendants and disciples and departed.
“Junior Brother Yang, please come and visit this Old Master’s Spirit Jade Peak. It should be time for you to choose your residence,” Qiu Ran suddenly said.
Yang Kai nodded and replied, “Good. Please wait a moment, Senior Brother Qiu, as I still have a small matter to handle.”
After replying, he immediately rushed out of the palace, transforming into a streak of light as he flew away.
Qiu Ran frowned, before sighing, “He certainly is energetic… Ah, youth…”
He did not know what Yang Kai was running off to do, to the point that he had pushed an important matter like choosing his residence aside. From the looks of it, it seemed to be something urgent.
After an instant, Yang Kai suddenly appeared at a place three hundred kilometres away from Azure Sun Temple. Looking around, he immediately focused his sights on a certain location. Cupping his fists, he called out, “Sect Master Zhang, it has been a while.”
The void rippled before a whirlpool appeared. In the next instant, an ordinary-looking middle-aged man suddenly appeared from the centre. Stepping out, a sliver of a surprised look was present on his face as he replied, “What good eyesight you have, Elder Yang.”
He had concealed himself at that location and had put up his guard, yet he did not expect Yang Kai to see through his concealment with a single glance. Indeed, he really possessed the ability to back up his conferment as an Elder of Azure Sun Temple. The crucial point was that the latter was still young, which made Zhang Dao Shan feel as though he had aged past his prime.
“May I know what the matter is, for Elder Yang to ask this Zhang to meet at this place?”
Earlier, Zhang Da Shan was about to leave after the end of the exchange meet when he received Yang Kai’s transmission. Thus, he had waited specifically at this place. If not, he would already have headed back to his Sect.
If it was any other person, he would most likely not pay attention to such a brusque request; however, with Yang Kai’s status as an Elder of Azure Sun Temple, Zhang Da Shan had no choice but to treat the latter with high regard, leaving him no other option but to wait here.
Yang Kai chuckled, “My apologies if this offends you, Sect Master Zhang; I would like to request for an item from Sect Master Zhang.”
A frown appeared on Zhang Da Shan’s face as he immediately understood the situation, “The Supreme Divine Water?”
Earlier, when the previous owner of the Supreme Divine Water had taken it out during the exchange meet, Yang Kai had also made an offer, though the trade was not successful. In the end, the Supreme Divine Water ended up in Zhang Da Shan’s hands. There were no previous interactions between the two of them; therefore, if Yang Kai wanted to find him for any matter, the only possibility would be due to the Supreme Divine Water.
“Indeed,” Yang Kai nodded his head.
A guarded look immediately appeared on Zhang Da Shan’s face while he sent his Divine Sense to scan in all directions, appearing as though he was preparing to fight his way out of an ambush at any given moment.
Yang Kai immediately let out a dry laugh, “There’s no need to worry, Sect Master Zheng. This Yang has come here alone and is genuinely interested in trading with Sect Master Zhang for that Supreme Divine Water.”
Zhang Da Shan frowned as he replied, “If that is the case, I would really have to apologize. This Supreme Divine Water is very important to this Zhang, so I would have to disappoint Elder Yang.”
Yang Kai raised his hand and continued, “There’s no hurry to reject me, Sect Master Zhang. Would you allow me to guess your use for the Supreme Divine Water?”
Zhang Da Shan’s frown grew deeper, as he felt increasingly impatient towards Yang Kai’s obstruction. He had already rejected the latter’s request, so what more did Yang Kai want to say?
Yang Kai pretended to not see this as he continued, “The use of the Supreme Divine Water is without a doubt for the cultivation of Spirit Herbs, and is one of the greatest treasures an Alchemist can ask for. Sect Master Zhang should want the Supreme Divine Water for this reason, right?”
“That’s right,” Zhang Dao Shan nodded his head in agreement. This was not hard to guess, so it didn’t prove the latter’s brilliance at all.
Yang Kai smiled and continued, “However, from what I can see of Sect Master Zhang’s talented capabilities, you are lacking any kind of Fire Attribute Qi or traces of Spirit Medicines. Therefore, Sect Master Zhang should not be proficient in the Alchemic Dao.”
Zhang Da Shan shook his head, “The Martial Dao is broad and boundless. This Zhang does not have the patience nor the capability to explore the Alchemic Dao as well.”
Yang Kai revealed a calm expression and smiled faintly, “In other words, Sect Master Zhang is planning on gifting this Supreme Divine Water to another, right? Furthermore, it must be to an Alchemy Grandmaster that would let Sect Master Zhang gift such a precious treasure. From the looks of it, Sect Master Zhang seems to have some kind of request for the other party, most probably refining a specific pill?” Yang Kai paused for an instant before continuing, “Perhaps Violet Source Chamber of Commerce’s Grandmaster Huang Fu?”
A look of surprise finally appeared on Zhang Da Shan’s face, “Elder Yang is even able to guess this?”
Yang Kai laughed and replied, “There are not many well-known Alchemists in the Southern Territory. Furthermore, only those few Emperor Alchemists are worthy enough for Sect Master Zhang to offer such a precious treasure like the Supreme Divine Water. There is no need to consider other Emperor Alchemists, however, as every one of them belongs to a great Sect and are extremely difficult to meet, much less request to concoct pills too. On the contrary, Violet Chamber of Commerce is focused on business, with Grandmaster Huang Fu frequently offering Alchemy services to the public. Generally speaking, only he would entertain requests for pill concoction.”
Having arrived at this point, Zhang Da Shan did not conceal any further as he nodded his head, “That’s right. This Supreme Divine Water is indeed a gift I’ve prepared for Grandmaster Huang Fu.”
Yang Kai replied, “Sect Master Zhang is planning on using this treasure to request Grandmaster Huang Fu to concoct a Spirit Pill for you?”
“Is there anything wrong about that?”
“Of course there isn’t anything wrong with that; however, with Grandmaster Huang Fu’s fame, there are innumerable people that are requesting for his Alchemy services, so who wouldn’t offer precious gifts to him? Although Sect Master Zhang’s Supreme Divine Water is very precious, you might not be able to gain any priority in the queue for his services. In fact, you might have to wait for a period of time even if Grandmaster Huang Fu accepts your gift.”
Zhang Da Shan frowned, “This Zhang naturally knows this; however, as long as Grandmaster Huang Fu accepts this gift, there should be results within three months. It is still better than those who have to wait bitterly for a few years.”
“Three months…” Yang Kai laughed, before raising a finger and saying, “What if I could let Sect Master Zang obtain the Spirit Pill he desires in one day?”
“What?” Zhang Da Shan’s entire being shook, “One day? Impossible!”
Doubt and suspicion immediately filled Zhang Da Shan’s expression. If Yang Kai had said those words to him yesterday, he would have snorted and scoffed in disdain; however, it was a different matter now. Right now, Yang Kai was an Elder of Azure Sun Temple. With such a golden signboard attached to his name, everything that Yang Kai said contained a certain level of credibility.
After hesitating for quite a while, Zhang Da Shan finally replied, “Which Emperor Alchemist does Elder Yang know?”
“Has Sect Master Zhang heard of the name Ji Ying?” Yang Kai asked back.
“Ji Ying…” Zhang Da Shan muttered as he fell into deep thought, but very quickly, his expression shook as light burst forth from his eyes, “Grandmaster Ji Ying? The Disciple of the Wondrous Pill Great Emperor?”
“Other than him, who else could it be?”
“You can’t be serious, right?” Zhang Da Shan was exceedingly shocked, “That Grandmaster is in the Northern Territory, and Elder Yang mentioned that within a day…”
Yang Kai interjected, “At this moment, Ji Ying is in Azure Sun Temple. I have a friendly relationship with him, so it isn’t a problem for me to request him to concoct a furnace of pills.”
Zhang Da Shan was instantly dumbstruck.
Requesting a furnace of pills from an Emperor Alchemist? Furthermore, from the Disciple of Wondrous Pill Great Emperor! How can a mere friendly relationship work like this? The point that made it extremely hard to believe was that Grandmaster Ji Ying was supposedly in Azure Sun Temple right now!
Just as Zhang Da Shan was lost in his confusion and tumultuous emotions, Yang Kai’s voice rang out once again, “Is Sect Master Zhang willing to gift that precious treasure and wait for three months or more to be able to obtain your desired Spirit Pills, or is Sect Master Zhang willing to try to obtain those Spirit Pills by tomorrow? However, truthfully speaking, even if Sect Master Zhang is able to request Grandmaster Huang Fu to perform Alchemy for you within three months’ time, I’m afraid that the fee for his work would be sky-high. However, if I use my connections, this fee can be waived.”
“Waiver of fees?” Zhang Da Shan’s eyes lit up.
When one requested an Emperor Alchemist to perform alchemy for them, not only would they need to prepare all of the required materials, they would also have to pay a rather high commission. If not, how would those Alchemists become filthy rich?
“Only this time!” Yang Kai replied with a straight face.
Zhang Da Shan immediately sensed something from Yang Kai’s reply as his face lit up with excitement, “Then the next time, this Zhang can also…”
“You naturally have to pay appropriate remuneration next time,” Yang Kai chuckled.
Zhang Da Shan was simply ecstatic. If he was able to form a connection with Grandmaster Ji Ying through this, he would no longer need to be at the beck and call of other people and wait bitterly when he needed pills in the future. As for commission fees, that was something that he was naturally willing to pay.
Seeing the change in his expression, Yang Kai struck again while the iron was still hot, “To tell you the truth, Sect Master Zhang, I need that Supreme Divine Water as well as I was planning to give some to Grandmaster Ji Ying. Set a price, Sect Master Zhang, and I’ll pay it.”
“There’s no need for that,” Being a decisive person, Zhang Da Shan had already made up his mind, and thus did not plan on hesitating further. After some organizing, he tossed a Space Ring to Yang Kai, “The Supreme Divine Water and the alchemy materials are inside. I’ll have to trouble Elder Yang then.”
Yang Kai extended his hand out to grab it. Sweeping the contents with his Divine Sense, he smiled faintly and replied, “Just wait here for a day, Sect Master Zhang, and I will come find you tomorrow.”
“Many thanks!”