270 - 277

Chapter 270: The Xiao Family's Auction

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

Ling Xiao roared in laughter, in high spirits, and with an even higher attitude. He waved his hands and said, "You bunch of brats, don't scare off my daughter-in-law! Next time when one of your sons gets married, then you bunch of unrepentant brats can go and make a mess! Now, as Marshal, I command: Set off!"

Amidst the laughter, Ling Xiao was the first to ride out of the military drill ground, and closely following behind were the various flag bearers and drummers, followed by platoon after platoon of smartly fitted soldiers in neat rows. Their presence was overbearing, and their killing intent rose straight towards the heavens!"

Ling Tian waved his hands as he shouted, "Return victorious and triumphant!"

All of the soldiers immediately raised up their weapons, shouting, "Return victorious and triumphant!" Their voices were like thunder, shaking the mountains and seas!

Nobody noticed that at this moment, Ling Tian's finger twitched, and a tiny ball of paper flew into the bosom of a young soldier standing behind Ling Xiao. The soldier in question almost imperceptibly nodded his head as he followed the army out.

Upon returning to the Ling Residence, Ling Chen abandoned Ling Tian as she flew like a hurricane into the little courtyard, likely about to wallow in embarrassment and shyness. Ling Tian couldn't help but laugh.

Old Madam Ling also helplessly let out a laugh as she shook her head, saying, "Tian'er, your actions today were completely out of this grandma's expectations. But it really suits your reckless nature, indeed…"

Ling Tian laughed once more, replying, "Chen'er has already followed me for so many years, who can replace her? I should have given her a title long ago, and having given her a title only now I think that it's a little late."

Old Madam Ling could only sigh helplessly, "His Majesty has just bestowed a marriage to you, and you actually went in front of all the officials as well as soldiers, brazenly proclaiming another girl to be your woman. That isn't too good, right? Even if you aren't afraid of the Emperor, what about your aunt and Jiao Yue's side, how will you answer to them? Aren't you afraid that Jiao Yue would feel jealous?"

A cold light shone in Ling Tian's eyes as he retorted, "How the imperial court wishes to deal with it, that's their problem. I haven't even settled the matter of aunt's poison with them yet! The fact that I haven't dealt with them already speaks volumes of my generosity, and as for how Jiao Yue thinks, that's her own problem. If you want to be a woman of the Ling Family, then you have to follow the rules of our Ling Family! Even if the Jade Emperor's daughter marries into our family, her identity would be that of a daughter-in-law of the Ling Family and not the Princess of Heaven! As for jealousy, hehe… she just needs time to get used to it!" Ling Tian smirked.

"Tian'er, this way of thinking isn't quite correct," On the side, Chu Ting'er frowned as she interjected, "As a man, if you can't even placate your women, aren't you no better than a wimp?"

Ling Tian grimaced, "Mother, cousin now still isn't considered my woman, at least in my eyes! Everything hasn't been set in stone anyways, so saying such things is still too early."

"Still not set in stone?" As Chu Ting'er carefully pondered over Ling Tian's sentence, she began to fluster. "His Majesty has already bestowed the marriage upon you, so how could it still not be set in stone? Don't tell me…!!" At this point, Chu Ting'er was completely horrified at what she wanted to say next!

Ling Tian laughed and turned to walk away while saying, "All these are still indeterminate."

"Mother…" Chu Ting'er stared at Old Madam Ling, tongue-tied and at a loss for words. Old Madam Ling could only give a helpless smile as she replied, "Ting'er, you still don't understand your son at all... and here I still thought that you were smart." With this cliffhanger, Old Madam Ling also walked back to her room, leaving Chu Ting'er mutely frozen in shock, her face alternating between happiness and anxiety.

***

As with Ling Tian's expectations, it was announced that the Xiao Family's auction was also going to be held in Smoky Thea Tower! Indeed, the fact that Gu XiYan's twelve chambers could be linked together to form a huge arena for activities made it very suitable for such events!

The only difference was that for the scholarly meet, Gu XiYan had put forth all her effort without asking for any compensation. But for this auction, Gu XiYan had ruthlessly fleeced the Xiao Family, asking for fifty thousand taels of silver just for the first day! Just the price alone would scare most people that heard of it!

This made the Xiao Family incomparably depressed. Why did the other party not require any compensation but we ended up being devoured? However, since they had already chosen this location, they couldn't change it for fear of losing face. If word was to get out that the number one financial magnate changed venues because they couldn't afford to pay that paltry sum of cash, then they would end up as the number one laughingstock! As such, while Xiao FengYang was furious in his heart, he could only grit his teeth and swallow this injustice. Since he had already coughed up the fifty thousand taels of silver, he became unusually generous and immediately rewarded Smoky Thea Tower with another ten thousand taels for good performance in order to shame them. You want money? I'll drown you in it!

But never in his dreams did he expect Gu XiYan's face to not change, instead laughing happily as she accepted the money, constantly thanking him for it. "This old woman is running a business, so of course I'll take the money! If I don't fleece the Xiao Family, then how could I answer to my ancestors? But I never thought that the younger generation of the Xiao Family could be so different, immediately coming out with a dazzling ten thousand as a reward. If he was thirty years younger, I would actually consider becoming part of his family! Ai, why did he give ten thousand taels of silver? Might as well hand over ten thousand taels of gold! Could it be that he has taken a fancy to me? Hmm, if that's the case, then if he hands over ten thousand taels of gold, this woman will definitely consider it!"

Gu XiYan's monologue was somehow heard by Xiao FengYang, immediately causing him to have an urge to vomit blood! He almost wanted to rush up to Gu XiYan and rebuke her, thinking, This old man here forged a bloody path on my own, but in your eyes I'm actually a younger generation? And you even want to enter my harem, but I have to be thirty years younger??! This daddy here is only forty-five, I'm in my prime! Pui! Even if you were twenty years younger, you still wouldn't have the qualifications to be my concubine! Am I interested in you? Sure, assuming that my head has been kicked by a mule!

Of course, with Second Master Xiao's upbringing, there was no way he would spew out such garbage. However, he choked on those words so badly he looked like he was ill!

Ling Tian was completely aware as to why Gu XiYan was doing this, and couldn't help but shake his head and laugh wryly. Women, oh women, it's best not to provoke them!

Ling Tian was definitely aware of the feud between her and the Xiao Family, but he didn't expect that Gu XiYan would use such an evil approach to torture them. However, it was precisely such a rotten idea that hit the exact sore spot of the Xiao Family! Everyone knew that the Xiao Family would never lack silver, but Gu XiYan made use of their own silver to make them lose face!

What a bold move, indeed an ingenious move! Ling Tian couldn't help but praise Gu XiYan. In this area, she could really be considered a genius.

This time, the Xiao Family was extremely secretive when conducting the auction. The advertisements they sent out said that there were only seven items for sale, but all seven of them were incomparably precious treasures. While they didn't even specify what the seven items were, everyone was aware that in order to be recognized as precious by the number one financial magnate, what sort of items would they be?

On the day of the auction, the scene was extraordinarily lively. The various nobility and aristocratic families from all the empires came over, including some wealthy merchant families. The crowd was actually larger than the scholarly meet! Smoky Thea Tower could only purchase ten thousand extra chairs, placing them to allow the customers to sit. Of course, all of these were billed to the Xiao Family, furthermore inflated quite a few times. Based on Gu XiYan's words, "Your Xiao Family definitely doesn't just have these paltry few thousands of taels!"

Under the expectant gaze of tens of thousands of people, the Xiao Family auction finally opened their curtains.

In the great hall of the Smoky Thea Tower, another small wooden stage was erected, with a table on top of it. A simple auctioneer's mallet lay on top of the table. The difference was that this mallet was shiny and dazzling as it was actually made out of gold! How overbearingly rich! Just the price of this simple mallet was something that ordinary people couldn't afford.

Under the gaze of countless people, the little princess of the Xiao Family, Xiao YanXue, ascended the wooden stage. She was dressed in pale yellow robes, her bearing elegant, her figure and looks like carved jade, her temperament refined, and exuding a sense of nobility. This lit up the eyes of all those present, and just her beauty had already made many people feel that this trip wasn't in vain.

Even a few of the large merchant conglomerates who had lost in the merchant wars against Xiao YanXue were actually seeing this Goddess of Wealth for the first time in their lives, and couldn't believe their eyes. They actually lost to such a young lass in the merchant wars?

Xiao YanXue didn't waste her time on superfluous words, merely giving two sentences of greetings before starting the auction.

Such a simple manner made Ling Tian inwardly sigh in praise. Xiao YanXue opened the auction with the words, "Today's auction has seven treasures up for bid. As for which seven they are, I believe everyone will find out in a short while, and this lass can guarantee that no one will be disappointed. I feel that each successive treasure will outstrip the last, and I invite all seniors and fellow students to analyze them."

As the audience smiled, she continued, "Three years ago, four of my Xiao Family's herb pickers went to the Northern Snow Mountains on our orders. When they reached the summit, who would have thought that there would suddenly be an avalanche, and the entire mountain started to break apart. Our four workers were fortunate to have survived by the skin of their teeth. When the avalanche passed and they were warming themselves up on the cliff, they accidentally discovered three treasures!" At this point, Xiao YanXue paused, heightening the suspense.

Someone couldn't take the suspense, and urgently asked, "What treasures? Which three treasures?"

Ling Tian laughed softly to himself. This person not only cut in at the right time, but he also asked what was on everyone's minds at this time. Probably someone planted by the Xiao Family? With how prestigious the auction was this time, how could it be that everyone would be able to take the suspense? However, if everyone were to be like Ling Tian and ride through the suspense, then it would be slightly embarrassing for Xiao YanXue who was on stage trying to heighten it. As such, Ling Tian suspected that this person had been planted there, also called a 'shill'.

Chapter 271: Adding a Single Tael

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

Xiao YanXue let out a smile and said, "This is the first treasure. It is a ten-foot long Soul Freezing Sandalwood. This Soul Freezing Sandalwood grows on the top of snow-capped artic mountains, and it takes several years for just a small section of it to grow. With just a small piece of it in a room, summer will no longer be scorching but cool and refreshing. If a small piece of Soul Freezing Sandalwood is added to a container, an item placed in the container won't rot even after a hundred years! Furthermore, as long as a small piece of it is placed on one's body, the smell emanated by it will chase away any poisonous insects! It wouldn't be too much to call it a treasure!"

"May I know what the starting bid of this item will be?" an anxious voice sounded. As everyone turned around to take a look, they saw NanGong TianHu from the NanGong Family.

"So it is Second Master NanGong," Xiao YanXue smiled, "the starting bid of the Soul Freezing Sandalwood is 200,000 taels of silver."

NanGong TianHu then shouted out, "Our NanGong Family wants this Soul Freezing Sandalwood! We offer 400,000 taels of silver!" Everyone knew that the body of NanGong Le was presently in the hands of their enemy. The reason why they were unable to return him to his hometown was due to the warm weather. Even with the best wood and best preservation methods, it was impossible to prevent the body from rotting. If they could have this section of Soul Freezing Sandalwood, they could place a few pieces of it into the coffin and NanGong Le's body can be transported back to their hometown without decomposing. After seeing NanGong TianHu offer a price, those who knew the backstory didn't compete with him. As for the merchants who didn't know the backstory, they all gave up due to the sudden spike in price and the determination displayed by NanGong TianHu to get it.

After calling out three times, the hammer handed and the deal went through.

Just when NanGong TianHu wanted to make payment, Xiao YanXue said, "Second Master NanGong, wait a moment." NanGong TianHu then lifted his head up with a questioning gaze.

Xiao YanXue then said, "Young noble NanGong was a young talent and a dragon among his peers. It was a pity that the heavens were jealous of this talent, and he passed away prematurely. The Xiao Family empathizes with your NanGong Family as well. Since the NanGong Family has already successfully bid for this item, this little lady here will make a bold decision and waive the price of the item. You can just take it as a small token from our Xiao Family. Please don't stand on ceremony, Second Master NanGong."

NanGong TianHu couldn't help but be stunned. He was a straightforward individual and immediately felt a wave of gratitude in his heart. The Xiao Family could have just sent the item straight to them instead of going through an auction. But if they chose to do that, there would definitely be rumors spreading about how the Xiao Family was trying to rope in the NanGong Family or that the NanGong Family didn't have the money to buy the Soul Freezing Sandalwood. Furthermore, their NanGong Family would not accept such a huge favor for no reason either. Now that NanGong TianHu managed to obtain the Soul Freezing Sandalwood in the auction openly, it would be completely different for Xiao YanXue to give it to him now. The NanGong Family had already displayed their financial capabilities and no one would have anything to say if the item was given to them.

A thunderous applause sounded from under the stage. Everyone felt that Xiao YanXue's actions were indeed wise. Not only did she take care of the NanGong Family's face, she made them owe her a favor as well! Furthermore, she didn't harm the image of her Xiao Family and instead displayed the generosity of her Xiao Family.

After giving a respectful bow, NanGong TianHu no longer stood on ceremony and walked off the stage with the Soul Freezing Sandalwood. At the same time, he immediately sent someone to bring it back to the place where their NanGong Family was presently residing.

After Xiao YanXue witnessed NanGong TianHu walk off the stage, she displayed the proper etiquette before turning back and continuing the auction with a smile, "The second item which we are going to auction off was also found in the artic. It is a Millennium Warm Jade. This jade has a mystical function. As long as one wears it, they would not be afraid of the cold even if they were to only wear a thin shirt in the winter. If a martial arts practitioner were to wear it, it would also calm his mind and benefit the cultivation of his inner strength. The starting bid of the Millennium Warm Jade is 500,000 taels of silver."

As Ling Chen who was sitting by Ling Tian's side heard the words, 'Millennium Warm Jade', her body stiffened as she clenched her fists subconsciously. She had heard Ling Tian say that this Millennium Warm Jade was definitely beneficial to her cultivation. While she knew that Ling Tian would definitely ensure that the jade landed in her hands, she was still overly anxious from concern.

Apart from Ling Tian, the eyes of two other individuals lit up as well. One of them was Qian ShuiRou whom Ling Tian had been observing. The second one was someone out of Ling Tian's expectations, DongFang JingLei.

According to what Ling Tian knew, the World Defying Hidden Dragon Manual of the DongFang Family was a mystical cultivation method in the present world. It far surpassed ordinary cultivation methods and the speed of one's improvement would also be shocking. As such, DongFang JingLei shouldn't require this Millennium Warm Jade. But why did he reveal such excitement upon hearing about it?

A voice then sounded, "600,000 taels of silver!" Ling Tian felt that the voice was familiar and turned to look. It turns out the one making the bid was the young master of the Yang Family, Yang Wei. For this rare commodity to come out at such a moment, Ling Tian would be letting himself down if he didn't toy with Yang Wei.

Ling Tian lifted up his board lazily and said in a weak voice, "600,001 taels of silver." Ling Chen almost burst out laughing by the side.

The crowd immediately broke out in commotion.

Qian ShuiRou and DongFang JingLei were about to raise their boards up to make a bid. But after hearing Ling Tian's bid, their faces changed and the hand which was holding onto the board also landed back down.

Xiao YanXue only mentioned the minimum bid but she never specified the minimum increase between bids. She originally thought that the famous Great Families present here definitely wouldn't resort to such childish pranks. Who would have thought that Ling Tian would actually give such a bid? However, he didn't go against any rules of the auction and it was Xiao YanXue's fault for not giving a minimum increase. As such, Ling Tian could offer a single tael above what the Yang Family offered which made everyone present extremely uncomfortable!

Both Qian ShuiRou and DongFang JingLei knew that the Ling and Yang families were definitely about to argue. As such, they both fell into a dilemma. This was obviously a fight between both the families and where would they stand if they were to involve themselves in this fight. However, the Millennium Warm Jade was something which they couldn't let go of. At the same time, they would definitely be embarrassed if Ling Tian were to increase their bids by a single tael of silver again. If they chose to give up after making a bid, not to mention their unwillingness, wouldn't they end up becoming laughingstocks if they were to lose by a single tael of silver? But if they were to choose to fight to the bitter end, how would they have the confidence of beating this local snake who had the bulk of their wealth present in Sky Bearing? Just the methods which young noble Ling had used made a chill run down their spine. With the wealth of the Ling Family, he could definitely raise the price up to a point where either of them couldn't bear it and then suddenly choose to give up. If they were then unable to take out the silver after making a bid, wouldn't they become a joke? If that was the case, they probably wouldn't be much better than XiMen Qing!

Considering what he did to a great family like the XiMen Family, it wouldn't be a surprise for him to do something like that again. While Ling Tian had the wealth to support himself, they may not be able to play so crazily with him.

For the first time in her life, Qian ShuiRou felt a sense of caution towards someone.

Yang Wei was furious as he glared at Ling Tian with steam rising out of his head. Gritting his teeth, he shouted out, "1,000,000 taels of silver!" In fact, Yang Wei didn't know the true use of this jade. He only wanted to buy it to make winter more bearable. Who would have thought that Ling Tian would make a fool out of him? Thus, he no longer had a route of retreat.

Ling Tian calmly grabbed the teacup which Ling Chen was handing to him and said with a smile, "1,000,001 taels of silver."

At that moment, many people present couldn't help but burst out laughing. Yang Wei's face turned ashen as he said, "Is young noble Ling so stingy? Are you only able to add a single tael of silver each time? Aren't you insulting the name of your Ling Family?"

Ling Tian then replied with a chuckle, "Even if I am insulting the name of my Ling Family, it is still a tael more than your Yang Family. Isn't a single tael more still more than your bid? This young noble is already being very generous, I originally only intended to increase the bid by a copper coin. If your Yang Family were to be overwhelmed by a single copper coin, I would be really going too far."

Yang Wei snorted in anger and shouted out again, "I bid 2,000,000 taels of silver!" Behind him, his father had already covered his mouth but was a step too late. Yang Lei's head was already filled with perspiration as he thought, My little ancestor, the Yang Family is already facing many troubles. Besides, how is the present Ling Tian someone who our Yang Family can offend? Even the XiMen Family which has hundreds of years of lineage was reduced to such a pathetic state by him. Do you really want to have a knife plunged into your chest? You aren't even sure about the use of this piece of jade, and you want to spend millions of silver to buy it back just because of anger. If Ling Tian were to find trouble with us because of this matter, wouldn't we have to hand it over obediently? Now that we are already facing so much trouble, why do you still have to provoke him? Even if he doesn't seek trouble with us, would your grandfather allow you to spend millions on a piece of jade?

Ling Tian let out a chuckle and said, "2,000,001 taels of silver." Yang Wei was already angry to the point that his face was bright red in color. Just when he wanted to shout out another price, a tight slap landed on his face. Yang Wei then stood up with a face full of anger, "What a mischievous lad! Have you played enough yet? What kind of a place is this? Do you even have the rights to speak up here? A few million taels of silver for a piece of jade? To think you can even act so spoiled!"

After Yang Lei taught his son a good lesson, they had also withdrawn from the competition of the Millennium Warm Jade. However, this had made Ling Tian depressed instead, especially the words spoken by Yang Lei as they also implied that Ling Tian was a spoiled brat!

After Ling Tian saw that Qian ShuiRou and DongFang JingLei were attracted by the appearance of the Millennium Warm Jade, he had already predicted it to be an intense competition. However, Ling Tian didn't want to spend too many taels of silver. After all, wouldn't the silver go to support the Xiao Family's army? Seeing Yang Wei jump out to make a bid, Ling Tian wanted to make use of Yang Wei's stupidity to completely enrage him. After bringing the price up sky-high, he would be able to scare both Qian ShuiRou and DongFang JingLei away. Then, he would allow Yang Wei to purchase the jade and he would just snatch it away at a later date.

Chapter 272: Sky-High Auction Price

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT , Rock

Who knew that while Ling Tian had planned his actions so meticulously, and with the start going in his favor, that things would take such a sharp turn? He had almost achieved his objective, but that old fellow Yang Lei had actually blocked him! In this case, the price temporarily paused at 2,000,001 taels of silver. However, to those who knew of the true function of Millennium Warm Jade, this price tag was nothing.

Since when did the Yang family become so astute? This young noble here actually got played by you! Ling Tian glared at Yang Lei for a moment, but actually received a smile close to ingratiation in return! He couldn't help but start in shock, suddenly realizing that this fellow did so because he was scared of Ling Tian!

The moment he understood, Ling Tian could only sigh under his breath. This was also called reaping what you sow, right?

On the stage, Xiao YanXue eyed Ling Tian, before announcing, "The price now is 2,000,001 taels of silver, any other bidders?"

She had barely finished the sentence when a clear voice sounded, "3,000,000 taels." That was Qian ShuiRou. DongFang JingLei had actually wanted to say something, but when he cast a look at Ling Tian, he hesitated quite a few times, finally deciding to stay out.

Qian ShuiRou's opening price was as good as giving Yang Lei a slap on the face. While the bidding war just now could be considered a competition between two spendthrifts, Qian ShuiRou's opening price could be considered the actual price of the jade!

All present cast their gazes on Ling Tian. They knew that this young master would definitely not let it go, but they were curious as to whether he would increase it by a tael or by a coin? Even Qian ShuiRou's heart started to race, this fellow wouldn't try anything funny, right? If so, what should she do?

Ling Tian only smiled and replied, "Since Brother Qian has already given the price, then this young noble will also bid…" He seemed to pause for a while as though considering. Everyone held their breath, preparing for the legendary 1 tael outbid, and Qian ShuiRou's tiny hands were balled up into fists.

"4,000,000 taels then. Since the clown has already left, the real bidding should start now." Ling Tian winked at Qian ShuiRou and laughed.

Qian ShuiRou couldn't help but sigh a breath of relief, her previous worries fading away. While she suddenly seemed to have glared at Ling Tian fiercely for his bid, but in truth, she was thankful deep in her heart. This made her question her own contradiction, why was it that she was thankful for him fighting with her? Could it be because he didn't call out 3,000,001 taels?

Qian ShuiRou kept her emotions before calling out again, "6,000,000 taels!" Once this price was spoken, everyone stared in shock!

Everyone was aware of the rarity of such a warm jade, but it was in the end only a palm-sized piece of jade, so how could it be worth 6 million taels? This was taels of silver, not 6 million pieces of stone! Was this bidder crazy?

Xiao YanXue was also stunned silly by the bid, because in her estimation while the warm jade had an extraordinary effect, it was probably only worth around 3 million taels. But now it had doubled! Could there actually be some unknown miraculous effect that she was unaware of?

Ling Chen gently tugged on Ling Tian's sleeve, lowly whispering to him, "Young noble, forget about it. Chen'er doesn't need it."

Ling Tian laughed at her care for him, but resolutely shook his head. He had already determined in his heart that Qian ShuiRou would definitely be aware of the true function of this warm jade and that her cultivation should be something similar to Ling Chen's, or else she definitely would not fork out 6 million taels for a piece of jade. This was a full 2 million higher in price! This alone already showed off her determination to obtain it.

But similarly, he couldn't let go of this jade, as Ling Chen's Divine Ice Formula required this warm jade in order to proceed to the realm of large success or else she would likely suffer from cultivation deviation! Furthermore, this was also related to the matter of Yu BingYan's Divine Black Negative Meridians. Thus, this jade was a treasure among treasures to Ling Tian! Whatever the price, he would make sure he got it!

Ling Tian smiled as he stood up fully, lightly calling out, "Ten million taels!!"

Qian ShuiRou slumped back down in disappointment. While she had the intention to continue the bidding war, her finances didn't allow her to do so! The whole arena was thrown into chaos. A palm-sized jade, as rare and strange as it might be, couldn't be worth the sky-high auction price of ten million taels! Was this young noble Ling insane?

DongFang JingLei secretly wiped off the cold sweat on his forehead. Luckily he didn't participate in this bidding, or else he would really have no way out of this farce. Looking at Ling Tian's attitude, it seemed like he would be willing to pay no matter the price. After all, with the current earnings from the Ling Family, this could be considered merely the hair on an ox, and would definitely not harm their finances in any way!

After asking thrice, there was no higher price, and thus the mallet fell. The Millennium Warm Jade now belonged to the Ling Family!

When Ling Tian went over to make payment, Xiao YanXue spoke in a low tone, "This Millennium Warm Jade is not worth that much, why did you bid such a large amount? Just to maintain your image, is it even worth it?" In her tone was the slight hint of a reprimand.

Ling Tian looked at her strangely, when did this lass actually become so concerned for him? Didn't she hate him from the start? But he still obliged by whispering back, "This is because I have no other place to spend my money, haiz, who asked my Ling Family to only have money and nothing else?" Xiao YanXue pursed her lips at him, furious to the point where she couldn't get any words out.

When Ling Tian took the warm jade from Xiao YanXue, he received a pleasant surprise. The moment it came into contact with his hands, he felt a sense of warmth, followed by his heart suddenly settling down and becoming extremely peaceful, as well as a sense of enlightenment. The longer he held it in his hands, the stronger this feeling became, which made him exclaim in praise. Spiritual treasures of heaven and earth were indeed different! This ten million was well spent, even if he were to add another ten million to it, it would still be worth it!

The moment he returned to his seat, he passed the warm jade over to Ling Chen's hands. Ling Chen was ecstatic and gingerly placed it inside her bosom. In her happiness, she couldn't resist giving a peck on Ling Tian's face. Then she recovered her wits, and realizing what she had just done in the middle of an audience, she immediately buried her face into Ling Tian's chest in embarrassment.

Qian ShuiRou, however, was filled with heartache. To think that this fellow actually spent such a sky-high price to buy the warm jade that was of paramount importance to her, just to get a smile from his lover. But this d*mnable playboy attitude of his actually cost her a precious cultivation opportunity! How hateful!

Xiao YanXue gazed at Ling Chen who was nestled in Ling Tian's bosom, and a weird expression flashed on her face but was quickly hidden away. After coughing twice, she continued, "The third item that our auction is showing today was also discovered by our three herb pickers, and it is native to the artic, two Ice Fire Lotus! These two are also spiritual treasures of heaven and earth, and if dealt with properly, can revive a person on his last breath of life. This is indeed a lifesaver that is worth the price needed to obtain it. The price starts from 600,000 taels, and every increment must be at least 10,000 taels!"

Ling Tian laughed to himself, Women are really petty, I only teased you just now but you're already turning back to take revenge! However, it is a pity that you missed out on one other function. These Ice Fire Lotus can also be used to produce the Great Cyclic Pellet, which can allow all my brothers to experience an increase in cultivation for their Divine Shocking Dragon Formula! This will allow for an increase in strength for my Ling Family and furthermore can cure Yu BingYan's ailment! There was no need to think further! Ling Tian immediately placed a bid of 2,000,000 taels.

While the original price of the Ice Fire Lotuses could probably reach up to 4,000,000 taels, nobody dared to make a sound after Ling Tian had bid. Everybody could tell at a glance that this guy had the look of someone who had nowhere else to spend their money, and if they were to compete with him, wouldn't that just be asking for trouble? Not only would they benefit the seller, but they would also offend the Ling Family, and the Xiao Family wouldn't even bother to thank them for their contribution! Furthermore, such a thing was abstruse and mysterious, with the actual methods of use still unknown, and thus no one dared to compete. Xiao YanXue called out thrice, and could only bang the mallet, scolding furiously in her heart, What a malignant star this jerk is! However, the profit he brought through the Millennium Warm Jade was far above their original estimations, so losing a bit with their Ice Fire Lotus was still acceptable.

Seeing how Ling Tian bought the two treasures as though he was possessed, everyone developed some fear towards him. If this guy continues at this rate, wouldn't all the treasures end up in his hands? Chances were that they couldn't fight him, they couldn't afford to antagonize him, and they also couldn't outbid the family that was termed as 'Sky Bearing Fortune Deity'. Then wouldn't this auction turn into a personal auction for the Ling Family?

The fourth item that was carried up on stage left everyone dazzled. Sky Blue Serene Gem, this was not just miraculous in name, but in reality! Just placing it on the table, it gave off the colors of the rainbow, and following the change in light source, the gem would brighten and extinguish itself. While it was inanimate, it gave people the impression that it was constantly moving, constantly shifting angles to provide the brightest glow. Even a person who wasn't well versed could tell that this was an invaluable gem!

The base price started at 800,000 taels of silver.

However, when this price was reported, nobody made a sound even after a long while, as all of them assumed that Ling Tian would definitely not let this go as well!

Contrary to everyone's expectations, Ling Tian didn't seem to have the intention, instead engaging in conversation with Ling Chen, as though he didn't care about this Sky Blue Serene Gem. Even Ling Chen's attitude was surprising, as such a jewel was usually a fatal attraction to women, even to Qian ShuiRou, but Ling Chen acted as though she didn't even see it! Could she be a freak?

Seeing this scene, everyone sighed in relief. A wealthy merchant started the bid with a million taels of silver, followed by all the aristocratic families joining in. The prices soared higher and higher, with Yang Wei finally buying it for a sky-high price of 12,000,000 taels of silver. He couldn't help but suggestively glance over at Ling Tian.

Chapter 273: Life-Saving, Life-Destroying

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

Ling Tian let out a sigh and revealed a disinterested expression. While the Sky Blue Serene Gem was indeed a precious treasure or perhaps even a priceless one, it was no more than a shiny rock in Ling Tian's eyes. Or perhaps a more accurate description would be a shiny gem. However, regardless of whether it was a gem or rock, Ling Tian had no interest in it at all. In Ling Tian's heart, this Sky Blue Serene Gem couldn't even be compared to a bun in his hands. At the very least, the bun could be used to satisfy his hunger. As for this Sky Blue Serene Gem, apart from keeping it at home to attract the robbers, there wasn't another use for it! To think that Yang Wei would still treat it like a treasure. However, he didn't realize that he was only bringing a pile of dynamite back home. As for Ling Chen, she had been influenced by Ling Tian since she was young and would naturally not place any importance on such an item.

"The fifth treasure is a fist-sized Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl!" From Xiao YanXue's bright smile, it was obvious that she was extremely satisfied with the price of the Sky Blue Serene Gem.

"500,000 taels of silver!" Before Xiao YanXue could even give the starting bid, a calm voice sounded and a green-dressed man stood up slowly. With an expressionless look on his face, he said, "I am sorry but I only have 500,000 taels of silver on me. However, I will get this Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl for sure."

The appearance of this green-dressed man was just too ordinary. He was neither tall nor short, neither fat nor skinny and didn't even have a distinctive feature on his face. He was an individual who would definitely be overlooked if he were to be placed in a crowd. Upon a closer look, one would realize that it was difficult to estimate his true age. From the way this green-dressed man looked, it wouldn't be odd to say that he was 20 or 30 years old. But at the same time, it also seemed likely that he was 40 or 50 years old.

Ling Tian took in a breath of cold air! Ling Tian who originally intended to bid for this item also changed his mind. Ling Tian could already recognize the green-dressed man; he was the mysterious martial arts expert outside the Smoky Thea Tower. So it turns out that he is also here!

To think that such an otherworldly expert would also want to obtain this Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl! If that's the case, he must definitely have his own use for the pearl. Furthermore, he had already displayed the determination he had to obtain the pearl. Ling Tian predicted that regardless of who obtained the pearl in the end, that person would definitely not be able to keep it. The green-dressed man's words were akin to informing the others that he only had 500,000 taels of silver but wanted the exorbitantly priced Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl. In other words, this green-dressed man had no choice but to resort to snatching it.

How would Ling Tian be foolish enough to offend this expert for a pearl? Thus, Ling Tian remained silent.

"Hahaha… where did this pauper come from? He actually thinks that he can purchase the Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl for a mere 500,000 taels of silver? Is he daydreaming?" A sound of ridicule could be heard, "I offer 1,000,000 taels of silver!"

Without looking, Ling Tian was able to guess that no one else apart from the idiotic Yang Wei would say something so insulting. At the same time, he thought to himself, This fellow is really the calamity of the Yang Family! As long as there is trouble, he will definitely be there to stir it. This fellow is someone that even this young noble can't afford to provoke at this moment, and your Yang Family actually dares to ridicule him!

Xiao YanXue suddenly said in a cold tone, "The starting bid for the Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl is 1,500,000 taels of silver! May young noble Yang watch his words. Everyone present here is a guest of my Xiao Family and should not be casually humiliated. But… this customer, there are rules to an auction. If you really needed this item and are short of silver, you could have mentioned this before the auction. However, YanXue is not able to help you at the present moment, and I can only apologize!"

The green-dressed man looked at Xiao YanXue with a surprised expression and glanced at Yang Wei before responding with a 'Mmm'. He then sat down quietly and didn't say another word.

Ling Tian then lamented Xiao YanXue's lack of vision. If she was able to sell the pearl to this green-dressed man for 500,000 taels of silver, the green-dressed man would definitely have a good impression of her. Gaining a good impression from such an individual was definitely a rare chance! What a pity!

He then looked at Yang Wei pitifully and had already given Yang Wei a flower wreath in his heart.

The matter of the green-dressed man was an insignificant one in the whole auction and no one gave it a second thought. Qian ShuiRou quickly made a bid of 2,000,000 taels of silver and DongFang JingLei quickly made a bid of 3,000,000 taels of silver when he saw that Ling Tian didn't open his mouth.

Ling Tian then looked at Qian ShuiRou and smiled thoughtfully. This lass can also be considered to be someone knowledgeable. No matter what this young noble likes, this lass will definitely participate in the bid as well. Just this insight alone was sufficient for Ling Tian to see her in a different light.

As the price soared, the Yang Family was the first to give up bidding on the pearl. Only DongFang JingLei and Qian ShuiRou were left in this price war. As Ling Tian observed them from the side, he was certain that they were definitely aware of the true value of the Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl. After all, having this kind of item was akin to having another life-saving treasure. Furthermore, it was one which could be reused. Curing grave illnesses, injuries or internal injuries, this Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl did indeed have many uses.

However, how would they know that the life-saving treasure that they were fighting for had already turned into a life-destroying talisman! Regardless of who obtained it, that person would definitely be paying a visit to King Yama! 1 How could someone who was at the peak of martial arts be a friendly character?

Ever since the green-dressed man opened his mouth, the Southern Seas Sandalwood Pearl was no more than a life-destroying talisman in Ling Tian's eyes. As he looked at Qian ShuiRou and DongFang JingLei fighting for the item excitedly, Ling Tian shook his head and let out a sigh.

Finally, Qian ShuiRou obtained the pearl at a sky-high price of 18,000,000 taels of silver. She then heaved a sigh of relief and revealed a smile on her face. Ling Tian then shook his head and thought to himself, Is there really a need for you to be so happy? You just spent 18,000,000 taels of silver to buy yourself a trip to hell.

"The sixth treasure is a piece of Black Iron that weighs 175 catties." Xiao YanXue then smiled radiantly and said, "The starting bid will be 1,000,000 taels of silver. Everyone should know that Black Iron is a treasure in forging weapons. As long as three taels of it are added into a weapon, an ordinary weapon would turn into a divine weapon immediately, slicing through metal like it was clay."

As Xiao YanXue said that, the whole hall fell silent and not a single person made a bid! All of their faces also turned strange.

Everyone knew that while Black Iron was a good material and that Xiao YanXue didn't exaggerate in the slightest, it was impossible to melt this piece of top-grade Black Iron. With the method of melting it being lost hundreds of years ago, how could a divine weapon be made out of it? If it couldn't be used, what was the point of buying a useless chunk of Black Iron? Should they be buying it to use it as a pillow?

A long while later, everyone was still silent and Xiao YanXue began to reveal traces on anxiousness. As the host of this auction, if they had any items which couldn't be auctioned, it was a huge embarrassment to the host and they would definitely become a laughingstock. For them to take out something that they thought was precious but that no one wanted to bid for was no more than a joke!

Xiao YanXue's gaze then landed on Ling Tian. She was extremely clear that this Black Iron was here to test Ling Tian. However, Xiao YanXue only saw Ling Tian peeling the skin of a grape and sending it into Ling Chen's mouth. From the start to the end, Ling Tian had never looked at Xiao YanXue before, and it was obvious that young noble Ling had no interest in the Black Iron at all.

Xiao YanXue's heart sunk completely. How embarrassing! She then couldn't help but blame her grandfather, Xiao FengHan, in her heart. Why did he have to make me bring this item to Sky Bearing? How could that brat Ling Tian have the ability to use it? See? We are now a joke!

Letting out a long sigh and seeing that no one was willing to make a bid, Xiao YanXue wanted to declare the item unsold. However, she heard a soft voice at this moment, "How can such a good item be ignored like that? This lowly concubine here offers 1,100,000 taels of silver."

Xiao YanXue felt relieved as though a weight was taken off her shoulders. Someone finally made a bid.

As everyone turned to look at the owner of the voice, they were all shocked. The owner of the voice was a middle-aged lady who still retained her charm and elegance. She was the owner of the Smoky Thea Tower, Gu XiYan. Gu XiYan then said with a smile, "What a coincidence, our Smoky Thea Tower is missing a treasure to be the symbol of our tower. Since sister Xiao is sending this Black Iron to us, I will really have to thank you for that. This lowly concubine here has limited funds and I hope that all the noblemen present will give this lowly concubine a chance. I hope that all of you will not fight with me for this item and this lowly concubine will thank all of you in advance."

Xiao YanXue looked at Gu XiYan with gratitude in her eyes. Gu XiYan was only the owner of a restaurant and this chunk of Black Iron was obviously useless to her. However, she was willing to spend more than a million taels of silver to help her out of this situation. As such, Xiao YanXue was extremely touched in her heart and wished that she could just give this chunk of Black Iron to Gu XiYan for free. Furthermore, as the boss of a restaurant, she had a poised bearing and was able to show face to everyone present here today. It was indeed something rare!

"The last item will start at one tael of silver with no minimum increase." Seeing that Gu XiYan had sent someone to carry the chunk of Black Iron off the stage, Xiao YanXue made a shocking statement.

"One tael of silver? No minimum increase? What kind of an item would that be?" someone asked curiously.

As Ling Tian turned around, he immediately realized that the person who was speaking was the same individual who was playing along with Xiao YanXue at the start of the auction. Ling Tian then smiled and thought, It was indeed as I thought, he is playing along with her!

Xiao YanXue then smiled, "This treasure is the sword of the sect master of Above Heaven from a thousand years ago, Heavenly Splitter! For the past thousand years, there has always been a legend that a heaven-shaking secret is hidden within this 'Heavenly Splitter'! The one who is able to obtain this sword will be able to grasp this secret and become the ruler of the world!"

As though Xiao YanXue's voice was like thunder, everyone present was shocked silly by her words! There were many who even stood up instinctively upon hearing the words 'Heavenly Splitter'!

Heavenly Splitter! To think that the Heavenly Splitter was here!

Chapter 274: Sky-Splitting War

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT , Rock

For a long time after the initial clamor, the hall was plunged into absolute silence! Everyone held their breaths, and even though there were over ten thousand people on the scene, a pin could probably be heard if it was dropped!

This silence was completely different from previous scenarios; this was out of pure shock and urgency!

Everyone there was aware that for this final item the starting bid was just a number. For an object of fame such as the Heaven Splitter, how could money be used as a gauge for it? Whoever got their hands on it would become the ruler of all under the heavens! How great of a temptation was that?

But who could get it in their hands?!

Under the gaze of everyone, four experts of the Xiao Family accompanied a middle-aged man as they solemnly walked up the stage. The middle-aged man was no ordinary person, but the number two figure of the Xiao Family, the highest decision maker in Sky Bearing, Xiao FengYang! To convey his sincerity to this 'divine sword' he had even crafted a case purely out of white jade to house the sword. Xiao YanXue carefully took it over, and opened the box, drawing out a longsword still in its sheath. The design of the sword was ancient and clumsy, but it exuded an overbearing atmosphere, and anyone who looked at it would know that it wasn't ordinary.

"I bid 12,000,000 taels!" The silence reigned for a while more before someone gave a bid, a sky-high bid of twelve million! But everyone knew that this was only the beginning.

Even if they were able to obtain it, they had to consider if they had the power to continue holding on to it. At this time, the most important factor would be one's capabilities, and only then could wealth be considered. For this auction, the various people thought that the Xiao Family had only brought a few valuable treasures to auction off, and little did they expect them to actually take out the Heaven Splitter sword! While treasures were precious for a reason, if they were too precious, then chaos would ensue as everyone attempted to get their hands on it. Even after this landed in someone's hands, could they actually manage to bring it back home?

This was the country of Sky Bearing Empire. The core people of the eight great aristocratic families had converged here in a swarm, and experts were as plentiful as clouds. A slight negligence would probably result in death without a recognizable body left! Just the Imperial Family of Sky Bearing would do all that they could to ensure that the Heaven Splitter wasn't allowed to leave the capital, let alone the Ling and Yang families who were also looking at it from the sidelines.

"Being ignorant is not a crime, but hoarding a jade ring is a crime." This ideology was something that everybody present understood!

Even the best item, if it wasn't able to be put to good use, would be useless!

Ling Tian observed the entire scene with drooping eyelids. He had already discovered the person who had bid first, but he didn't go over to greet him. It was the internal affairs head of the Imperial Court, Long QianXing! Ling Tian laughed coldly to himself, Is even the Imperial Court contemplating the idea of possessing the Heaven Splitter? Sadly, even if they are able to lay their hands on it, this country would be reduced to ruins in less than two months! How presumptuous of them! This is a treasure capable of reaping lives, and with your current strength, you also want to dip a finger into the pie?

Other than one person there, Ling Tian completely didn't consider the rest as worthy of any concern. That person was actually not Qian ShuiRou, and it wasn't that her strength wasn't enough, but that her strength wasn't even enough to make him apprehensive. The real person that Ling Tian was afraid of was actually the green-robed man! He could confirm for certain that this person was a peerless expert hailing from Beyond Heavens, and him coming here at this time would only be for the Heaven Splitter. If that was the case, then not only would Ling Tian not obstruct him, but he would happily welcome him.

Ye QingChen had once mentioned in passing that in every generation, there would be a peerless expert in Beyond Heavens who could shake the continent! But when Ling Tian asked him about it, Ye QingChen merely smiled and didn't answer. Seeing that particular green-robed man right now, Ling Tian seemed to have the answer to his questions, and he couldn't help but laugh bitterly to himself.

Indeed, the bidding didn't stop there, and in an instant, it had already risen to close to 60,000,000 taels! Everyone's emotions were getting more and more worked up by the minute. Even the level-headed DongFag JingLei was starting to get worked up, and the BeiMing Family that hadn't made a sound until now also joined in.

Beside Qian ShuiRou there were eight experts standing there with solemn expressions. Among the crowd, people were busy screaming out bids, but everyone knew that the bids were no more real than reflections on a lake. There would definitely be no commitment behind those bids. The presence of the Heaven Splitter had already set in motion the fires of war.

Maybe this was the actual motive for the Xiao Family to sell the Heaven Splitter in the auction!

Ling Tian suddenly spotted someone missing and immediately turned anxious!

Where was the female who was always beside Qian ShuiRou?

As Ling Tian thought of this point, a disturbance suddenly appeared in the crowd. The moment everyone turned to look, a few dozen shiny black pearls fell like falling petals onto the crowd, and with soft 'pu pu' sounds the entirety of Smoky Thea Tower was filled with a thick black smoke.

At this point, an unforeseen event happened!

Berating and cursing were continuously heard as the noise generated from moving blades, fists, and legs grew in volume. The sounds of groaning rang out and a thick stench of blood began to rise up.

Ling Tian's eyes darted left and right and gently tugging on Ling Chen's hand the two of them immediately floated up into the air, silently returning to the Heavenly Fragrance Chamber based on their memories. With their expertise in movement techniques, it was a piece of cake to escape with none the wiser.

Just after the two of them had left, a sudden gust of wind enveloped their seats, and with a series of chopping sounds their respective seats were broken to bits.

Ling Tian coldly smiled to himself. It was lucky that he had acted upon his instincts, as it seemed like there was someone who had wanted to take advantage of this mess to deal with him. However, other than Qian ShuiRou, there didn't seem to be anyone else who could be that prepared. But if it was her then that was too unwise!

Followed by two loud explosions, two large holes simultaneously appeared in Smoky Thea Tower, allowing two bright rays of sunlight to penetrate into the building. Two silhouettes flew in like gods descending from heaven and lept past the fifty feet of distance in a flash, both of their hands stretching towards a certain direction. Ling Tian was certain that both their hands were stretching to where the Heaven Splitter had been placed.

Everyone else had the same line of thought, and simultaneously a dozen shadowy figures leaped towards the same place like lightning.

'Peng peng' came two loud noises, as those two silhouettes that were in front were thoroughly rebuffed! This was immediately followed by a multitude of noises as all those experts who also rushed forward were immediately sent staggering backward. A loud crash was heard as the rooftop of the tower splintered and a blurred shadow immediately flashed and disappeared. This was followed by many of the audience, who leaped towards the roof in order to pursue the person. Suddenly, the splinters that were created from the smashing of the roof were infused with energy and shot down like rain into the pursuers. Without a way to change directions in midair, they could only allow themselves to get hit, smashing back down and being heavily injured!

The two mysterious shadows that initially came also jumped up to the roof and disappeared. In the end, no one managed to properly see the face of either man!

A heart-wrenching cry that sounded precisely like Yang Wei's voice could suddenly be heard. At this time the smoke in the great hall had already begun to clear, and then everyone could see the reason why. Standing about fifty feet away, the eldest young master of the Yang Family swayed unsteadily before vomiting out a gout of blood and falling down. Yang Lei immediately sprang over to hold his son in his bosom. To think that his son had been killed in just this short amount of time!

The fog completely faded, revealing a scene of complete disorder in Smoky Thea Tower. DongFang JingLei, Qian ShuiRou, BeiMing Kong, NanGong TianHu and the other experts had horrific expressions. A few of them were even bleeding from the corner of their mouths as evidently they had received injuries of some significance.

Yet another scream sounded, and everyone turned to see Xiao YanXue trembling with a pale face, pointing towards a direction. The four experts from the Xiao Family lay where she pointed at, with the Heaven Splitter already missing! Nobody doubted the fact that if Xiao FengYang was on the scene he would also be lying there!

"Good martial skills!" A strange gleam could be seen in Ling Tian's face as he eagerly nodded and said, "Chen'er, did you see it clearly?"

With a face full of guilt, Ling Chen shook her head, saying, "I properly observed the two experts that came in and the experts that flocked up. But the most important parts, which were who took the Heaven Splitter as well as how the eldest young master of the Yang family died, those I failed to observe."

A smile appeared on Ling Tian's face as he replied, "You don't need to feel reproach as I didn't see it clearly either and only saw a broad outline. But other than me, I believe no one would be clearer about what happened inside. The person who took the Heaven Splitter is likely to be the green-robed man, for nobody else would have the capability to do so!" Ling Tian sighed before continuing, "This person's martial skills are really out of this world, and I believe that he should be undefeatable under heaven!"

Ling Chen hesitated a while before asking, "Not even young noble? I believe he's only on par with young noble!"

Ling Tian laughed, "Chen'er, you and I are both martial artists, why is there a need to lie? If I can reach the eleventh layer of the Divine Shocking Dragon Formula, I might stand a chance. Right now, definitely not!"

Ling Chen took in a breath of cold air.

As it turned out, when the situation changed, and the two men dropped down from above, the dim light allowed Ling Tian to properly see exactly what happened.

In that instant when the two men rushed for the Heaven Splitter, the green-robed man was a step ahead and had silenced the Xiao Family's bodyguards, grabbing the Heaven Splitter. He then repelled the two experts easily with two palm strikes, as well as giving a flurry of strikes towards each of the nobility that had lept up! He had then jumped up, and as he was midair, he struck down towards Yang Wei once, before destroying the ceiling and using the wood shards as hidden weapons! This was how he made his getaway!

Just a simple wave of his hand had caused Yang Wei who was 150 feet away from him to have his heart shattered, killing him instantly!

Chapter 275: I Killed Him

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

The depth of his martial arts was just too frightening!

Ling Tian was certain that this was something that he wouldn't be able to do now.

The two people who landed from the roof were definitely experts of the XianTian realm and probably equal to Yu ManTian. At the very least, they would be elders of a Great Family. However, the green-dressed man was able to easily force them back, and Ling Tian personally suspected that the green-dressed man could probably seriously injure both of them with ease! It was just that he wasn't being too serious back then!

Furthermore, Qian ShuiRou, DongFang JingLei, and BeiMing Kong could all be said to be super experts with their subordinates being top-notch experts in the world today. However, the almost 20 of them were easily defeated by the green-dressed man alone!

Furthermore, that was after he forced the two mysterious experts back! Finally, he even had the time to wave his hands and kill Yang Wei who was 150 feet away from him!

This was almost legendary!

Ling Tian tried to place himself in the shoes of the green-dressed man. If he were to face so many experts at the same time, he wouldn't dare to face them head on and would definitely have to retreat. If not, he would have to use some hidden weapon techniques that this world had never seen before. Even if he could handle the experts by ambushing them with his hidden weapons, he definitely couldn't do it as easily as the green-dressed man. As for forcing the crowd back with his inner strength, that was something impossible for him to do presently. Ling Tian didn't believe that he could do it!

As for killing Yang Wei after forcing the experts back, Ling Tian estimated that he would only be able to kill from a distance of 80 feet. But if it was 150 feet…

Such strength was just too frightening!

Of course, the green-dressed man was still human after all. After exchanging blows with the many top-notch experts, things weren't that easy for him either. Especially the moment where he dashed into the sky, his face was obviously a shade of dark red. But to a top-notch expert like himself, he would easily recover from such a small internal injury in a few days!

Ling Tian thought to himself, Perhaps I can only fight him after I breakthrough into the 12th stage of the Divine Shocking Dragon Formula. Now, I am far from being his match.

A mournful cry suddenly sounded and Yang Lei hugged his son's corpse with tears rolling down his cheeks.

"Where is young noble Ling?" Qian ShuiRou snapped out of her daze and realized that only Ling Tian was not present. Thus, she couldn't help but cry out as she thought in her heart, Could that mysterious expert be Ling Tian? If it was really him, Ling Tian's strength is far too frightening! In shock, she forgot to disguise her voice and a gentle voice could be heard from her. However, everyone was still in shock, and they only looked around for Ling Tian without noticing her odd voice.

"Thank you, brother Qian for your concern. This little brother is over here." In the Heavenly Fragrance Chamber, Ling Tian's chuckle could be heard and his relaxed figure nonchalantly walked out from the chamber. Standing outside the door, he said, "Brother Qian must really be concerned about me, asking about this little brother at the very first moment. Ling Tian is extremely grateful in my heart. Why don't we have a good conversation tonight? We can join our beds and talk through the night!"

Qian ShuiRou's face turned red as she said with a chilly tone, "It isn't much. As long as young noble Ling is alright, I can be at rest. I thought that young noble Ling met with a mishap and I was feeling regret in my heart."

Ling Tian laughed and said, "Brother Qian really cares greatly for this little brother. Brother Qian, with your concern towards me, I would definitely marry you if you were a lady."

Qian ShuiRou glared at Ling Tian and said with a snort, "I am sorry but I will have to disappoint brother Ling."

Ling Tian chuckled and said in a meaningful tone, "Disappointed? Hehehe." Qian ShuiRou grunted and turned her head around. However, her fair neck was already dyed bright red.

"Who? Who killed my son?" Yang Lei's hoarse roar sounded. His gaze of despair swept past everyone present and finally landed on Ling Tian as he said hatefully, "Ling Tian! How sinister!"

Ling Tian was completely speechless. This young noble is a good 300 feet away from your son. How is his death my doing? If I had that ability, I certainly wouldn't let that green-dressed man kill your son. He is my plaything after all! While I do want to have such abilities, it is a pity that I really don't have them!

Everyone present couldn't help but look at Yang Lei with disdain. With a single gaze, the experts present could tell that Yang Wei died from the palm strike of an expert and it was impossible for Ling Tian to be the culprit. However, Yang Lei couldn't find the true culprit and decided to vent his anger on Ling Tian. Thus, everyone couldn't help but look at Ling Tian, wondering how he would handle this issue.

Ling Tian then said with a snort, "That's right, I am the one who killed your son. What are you going to do about it?"

As Ling Tian said those words, everyone present was dumbfounded. Who would have thought that Ling Tian would take the initiative to dump this pile of sh*t on his head! To think that Ling Tian was arrogant to the point he couldn't even be bothered to explain himself and admitted the matter directly! At the same time, Qian ShuiRou couldn't help but glare fiercely at Yang Lei after thinking about the matter.

The only reason why Ling Tian would admit it was because he had a thought: It is time for the Yang Family to disappear. Why don't I make use of this opportunity to create havoc!

Ever since he knew that the Imperial Family had relations to Qian ShuiRou, Ling Tian already had such a thought. While the situation of the Imperial Family seemed grave, the Imperial Family was the legitimate power of Sky Bearing after all and had a powerful influence. Furthermore, the Yang Family couldn't be too weak after accumulating their strength for so many years. With the appearance of Qian ShuiRou's mysterious party, Ling Tian could already feel a huge pressure. If the three parties were to drop all pretense and deal with the Ling Family together, it would definitely be troublesome for him. While the Ling Family would emerge victorious, they would definitely have to pay a heavy price. This was something which Ling Tian didn't want to see.

Among these three parties, the Yang Family was the most robust party. After all, Yang KongQun had been in Sky Bearing for a few decades and had laid a powerful foundation. While Qian ShuiRou's personal strength was powerful, she still had to rely on the Yang Family. If Ling Tian could eradicate the Yang Family, it would be akin to removing an important source of information for her! From then on, Sky Bearing would also belong to the Ling Family. No matter how powerful Qian ShuiRou was, she would be deaf and blind if she didn't have any sources of information. A deaf and blind expert definitely wasn't such a huge threat!

Furthermore, the NanGong Family who had deep enmity with the Yang Family was also present. It would be foolish for Ling Tian to not make use of such a force! Let them fight it out first so the strength of the NanGong Family could be reduced as well. This was akin to killing four birds with a single stone.

Yang Lei was also taken aback. For his son to die in front of him, Yang Lei was agitated to the point he almost went crazy. In that crazed state, he subconsciously pointed the spearhead to his son's greatest enemy, Ling Tian. He couldn't help but want to vent his stomach full of anger and hate on Ling Tian. However, who would have thought that Ling Tian would have admitted to Yang Wei's death without bothering to defend himself. In that instant, Yang Lei was also at a loss.

A soft cough could then be heard, "General Yang, young noble Ling is definitely not related to the death of your son. There is probably a misunderstanding behind this, and the matter should be handled carefully. If not, you would only be harming yourself and leave your enemies gloating." As Ling Tian had expected, the one who spoke was Qian ShuiRou.

A crisp voice could then be heard, "Young noble Qian isn't right. Just like the saying, 'one should admit to his doings'. Young noble Ling is an upright individual and would definitely dare to admit that he killed Yang Wei. Furthermore, the father of the victim had already pinpointed young noble Ling as the culprit and young noble Ling had admitted it as well. What kind of a misunderstanding can there be?"

Ling Tian smiled. The one who spoke was a young lady dressed in yellow, NanGong Yu of the NanGong Family. Thinking that the NanGong Family was the murderer of her older brother, she hated the Yang Family to the bone. So, why would she not take this chance to suppress the Yang Family? Besides, regardless of what the truth was, the NanGong Family treated Ling Tian's admittance to a signal for them to deal with the Yang Family. What was the purpose for their NanGong Family to come to Sky Bearing? Afraid that NanGong TianHu didn't know what to say and would cause them to lose this opportunity, NanGong Yu took the initiative to step out and aid Ling Tian.

Her motive was simple: the Ling and Yang families must fight today. It would be even better if Ling Tian could kill Yang Lei on the spot. At that time, there would be no turning back for both their families and it would be extremely beneficial for their NanGong Family's revenge!

"Everyone here knows that young noble Ling was at least 400 feet away from young noble Yang when the murder happened. Furthermore, young noble Yang died from the methods of a top-notch martial arts expert. How could young noble Ling be the culprit? If young noble Ling had this ability, wouldn't he be the number one expert in the world?! Miss, please don't be unreasonable and turn right into wrong. Is Miss trying to instigate a war between the Ling and Yang families? Miss NanGong Yu of the NanGong Family!" Qian ShuiRou said coldly.

"Can young noble Ling be irrational to the point he would admit to killing someone if he wasn't the culprit? How would you know that young noble Ling does not have such abilities? After all, you are not young noble Ling himself! Sir, you are the one who is trying to turn right into wrong!" NanGong Yu didn't back off in the slightest and proclaimed loudly, "Can I ask the heroes present here today a question! Would any of you be willing to admit to something you never did?"

Everyone present looked at each other and shook their heads together. Looking at the both of them quarreling, everyone else was completely bewildered. Before the two parties who were involved in this incident said anything, these two fellows had actually jumped out to argue with each other.

The present scenario is truly odd. One party was trying to help defend Ling Tian while the other was trying to justify that Ling Tian was the murderer. However, the one trying to defend Ling Tian was Qian ShuiRou who was obviously Ling Tian's enemy! Furthermore, the one trying to justify that Ling Tian was the murderer was NanGong Yu who was in alliance with Ling Tian!

Everyone present couldn't help but find this matter to be truly strange.

"Cough cough." DongFang JingLei let out two dry coughs and said, "At this present moment, it is difficult to determine who is in the right and wrong. The most important thing to do now would be to let young noble Yang return to his roots and enter the soil in peace." As he said that, DongFang JingLei's face turned red as he felt that his words were almost completely nonsensical.

Yang Wei was from Sky Bearing and now that he passed on in Sky Bearing, why was there a need for him to return to his roots. As for entering the soil in peace, that was completely nonsensical. How could the burial of the successor to a Great Family be handled so casually?

Chapter 276: Thousand Year Blood Ginseng

Translator: chuchutrain Editor: DavidT , Rock

Once DongFang JingLei spoke, everyone nodded their heads fervently like chickens pecking corn, and BeiMing Kong added in, "That's right, General Yang, you should return to your residence as soon as possible. I believe that once the Yang Family Head receives the news, he can make a more informed decision. Young noble Yang's death has to be avenged, but not by blaming an innocent party and letting the evildoer go scot-free." As he spoke, he coughed twice hoarsely. Apparently, he had also been injured internally from the clash just now.

Everyone on the scene twitched, what another load of bullsh*t, this was as good as not saying anything! But everyone on the scene still nodded, praising the idea.

Yang Lei took advantage of the situation to retreat without losing his face, coldly remarking, "This Yang will go back and inform my father. This murder in blood, I'll definitely repay it with blood. No matter who the murderer is, our Yang family won't let him go!"

NanGong Yu sniggered as she continued to provoke him, "The person in question has already happily stood up to acknowledge his wrongdoing, but as his father, you actually don't dare to accuse him! You want to revenge his blood? How laughable! I've never seen someone as despicable, yet so shameless and cowardly as you. Don't tell me you're going to only wait for all of your sons to die before you take revenge?"

Yang Lei's face turned purple, but he treated her words like empty air and commanded all the Yang family members to leave.

The Heaven Splitter had already been missing for the past millennium, and now it had appeared once again, only to be stolen by a mysterious person. This was no small matter! Be it an aristocratic family in this current age, or the imperial families of every empire would definitely have allocated manpower to deal with this matter. If someone were to really use the fame of Heaven Splitter to rally troops to his cause, then this would be a source of panic for all the various countries!

Besides, the matters of most of the families were coming to an end here in Sky Bearing, whether they had obtained any benefits or not!

The DongFang Family could be said to have obtained quite a considerable harvest this time. Not only did they obtain a common consensus with the BeiMing Family in securing some funds under wraps, they also improved his relations with Ling Tian. DongFang JingLei was very conscious of allowing Ling Tian to have his way, believing that with his efforts, Ling Tian would definitely be able to take notice of it. However, as the saying goes, 'A sage might have a thousand considerations, but he would definitely make a mistake'. Through this auction, Ling Tian had discovered that DongFang JingLei possessed strength comparable to Qian ShuiRou, given that when he suffered the least when he exchanged blows with the green-robed man.

Talking about benefits, the originally obstructed NanGong Family had become an ally of the Ling Family and was extremely happy!

Naturally, there were people who had suffered, with the XiMen and Yang Families within that group.

The XiMen Family believed their plan to be infallible, but in the end, they were met with an iron wall and had their entire troop routed!

The Yang Family had lost considerably earlier on and had intended to use this chance to form new alliances so as to borrow some strength to get past this difficult stage. Sadly, the younger generation didn't live up to expectations and they not only lost a descendant, but also provoked the Ling family. After learning of the capabilities of Ling Tian, the BeiMing Family suddenly pulled out of their alliance with the Yang Family and prepared to return to their empire. The Yang Family was once again thrown deep into the storm surrounding Sky Bearing.

However, the greatest benefits were gained by the Xiao Family. Not only did they succeed in earning a huge sum of money through this auction, they also managed to successfully let go of the 'hot potato' that was the Heaven Splitter. In their eyes, all their objectives had been clearly achieved. The skies were sure to rage with war because of the Heaven Splitter, and the only regret they had was that they were unable to tell which family took the Heaven Splitter in the end. However, the most important thing now was actually to recruit and build their own troops and wait for an opportunity.

Thus, Xiao FengYang also had the intention to leave.

After going through another round of talks with NanGong TianLong, Ling Tian left the Smoky Thea Tower that night, returning to his residence. Of course, he didn't forget to get some men to shift the piece of Black Iron to the armory. Ling Tian laid down a stern order, that in a week he had to see the Black Iron transformed into the weapons that he had briefed!

Indeed, the methods to refine Black Iron had already been lost here, but in Ling Tian's world, even diamonds could be smelted and reforged, let alone mere Black Iron. How could he not be able to smelt them into weapons? While seven days might be a little too short a time to forge the Black Iron, but given the characteristics of Black Iron, as long as one knew the formula to forge it, there was no need to repeatedly hammer and smelt it.

Ling Tian had just reached home, and barely sat down when he received a report saying that the DongFang Family was here for a visit.

"Honored brother Ling," DongFang JingLei appeared extremely warm and friendly, immediately addressing him as honored brother the moment they met, "to be so familiar with each other at first sight, that must be fate! I believe this honored brother is now aware of why I've tarried so long at Sky Bearing. The appearance of the Heaven Splitter has caused huge waves that stretches across the entire continent. Now, this foolish one has to return to my country to come up with a countermeasure with my liege. I've come today especially to bid farewell!"

"Oh… hehe, Brother DongFang is being too polite!" Ling Tian instructed some servants to bring over some Smoky Thea tea, before courteously replying, "To be able to chance upon brother DongFang here in Sky Bearing, as well as to have a good time together should be my pleasure; this is a joy in life. Unfortunately, brother DongFang is about to return, and we can't chat and debate together side by side, what a pity."

Staring at DongFang JingLei, even more questions appeared in Ling Tian's heart. Why did this person continuously shield him in Smoky Thea? In order to prevent himself from being maligned, he even spoke up against the Yang Family! On the surface, it seemed as though he was doing this to help Ling Tian, but if NanGong Yu could get his meaning, why did DongFang JingLei still act that way, given his intellect? He should have fanned the flames instead!

Could it be that his goal was to prevent Ling Tian from dominating the whole of Sky Bearing?

DongFang JingLei gave a free and unrestrained smile as he spoke, "Everybody comes and goes, and it doesn't mean that if I leave today that there won't be any more meetings. Maybe in the future, we'll still get to ride side by side, admiring the mountains and rivers."

A glow lit up in Ling Tian's eyes as he laughed out loudly, "Brother DongFang's words make sense, just that I'm afraid by then I'll probably be burdened with children. I wish you a good voyage!"

DongFang JingLei let out a smile and said, "Much thanks for the kind words, brother, this foolish person here will pay attention to my journey, with respect to you. While I know this honored brother does not care for worldly gifts, I still have to show you some small appreciation. Please accept this." Saying this, he drew out a small, slim jade box from his bosom and placed it on the table. "Inside this jade box is a treasure I obtained in the cold, a Blood Ginseng. I saw just now how you unhesitatingly bid for the Ice Fire Lotuses. I came to the conclusion that you must be searching for related spiritual treasures, thus I'm gifting this to you. I hope you won't reject it!"

A fully formed Blood Ginseng! Ling Tian's heart leaped. This was an interesting plaything here. Most people didn't know that the Blood Ginseng would only take shape after a millennium, and its effectiveness vastly outstripped that of normal millennium-old ginseng. However, this was an extreme Yang-related herb. If a person were to consume it without the proper preparations, even a small slice would cause the body to implode from the immense Yang flame in their body. Thus, another name was given to this Blood Ginseng, which was 'Fiery Heartburn'! It was the extremity of healing panaceas, as well as the most violent!

While there might exist detriment in using excessive amounts, if Ling Tian were to use this Blood Ginseng in his Great Cyclic Pellet production, the result would have a doubled effectiveness! Furthermore, the Ice Fire Lotuses he was putting inside were mainly still Yin related in nature, and if these two were used together, they would balance out and complement each other, Yin and Yang intertwined, the best of both worlds.

Ling Tian thought fast, and leisurely raised his head, saying with a poker face, "Such a treasure, how could I easily just accept it? I beg brother DongFang to take it back. It is not that I'm being unreasonable, but that such a precious gift is not for me to accept lightly." As he finished, he gently nudged the box back. It was as though Ling Tian was not even moved by such a rare treasure of heaven and earth.

Seeing the indifferent look on Ling Tian's face, DongFang JingLei couldn't help but feel astonished.

In order to rope in Ling Tian, the DongFang Family had debated long on what to offer him. It was only upon seeing Ling Tian bidding for those items during the auction that JingLei realized Ling Tian had an interest towards such medicine, and actually had academic inclinations in this field. While the DongFang Family had got their hands on this Blood Ginseng a long time ago, they weren't able to utilize it, which was as good as seeing a treasure hill but being unable to touch it, depressing beyond words! If they were to attempt to sell something of this caliber, it would definitely attract unwanted attention. In the end, they decided to gift this to Ling Tian, in the event that he would know how to utilize it, and then he would owe a huge favor to their family! With the rumors going around that he was a successor of Beyond Heavens, and with the top notch medicinal skills of the Beyond Heavens, if they could receive a favor from Ling Tian, they would have a trump card in their hands to use in the future!

In the thoughts of the DongFang Family members, as long as they gifted this Blood Ginseng, they would definitely receive the goodwill of Ling Tian. However, to DongFang JingLei right now, Ling Tian looked just like a zombie, with neither joy nor ecstasy seen on his face, and instead a general lack of enthusiasm.

Chapter 277: Battle of the Tians

Translator: DavidT Editor: DavidT , Rock

Just what should he do? Since he had taken the item out, how could he take the gift back?

DongFang JingLei then awkwardly chuckled and said, "This foolish brother had said it already, while this is a rare treasure, it may not necessarily be to your liking. However, I hope that this little brother will accept this gift on account of my sincerity. Just like the saying, "goose feather sent from afar, a small gift with a large meaning". While this brother didn't come from afar, this… ah ah ah…" As DongFang JingLei said that, he felt as though he had just eaten a fly. For such a treasure to receive such cold treatment was something completely out of his expectations. Thus, he couldn't help but feel indignance on behalf of this Blood Ginseng.

Ling Tian smiled and muttered under his breath for a moment before saying, "Since brother DongFang says so, this little brother shall not stand on ceremony. Facing brother DongFang's sincerity, it wouldn't be good for this little brother to continue concealing something. This item is indeed useful to this little brother."

Hearing what Ling Tian said, DongFang JingLei was immediately energized. However, he quickly saw Ling Tian's worrisome expression as he said softly, "My father goes out to war very often and guards the borders of our empire. He has practically spent more than half his life on the battlefield and has been through countless battles suffering numerous injuries. Recently, he has been suffering from rheumatism and such an illness is indeed bothersome. As a son, I am extremely worried about this matter. The Blood Ginseng that brother DongFang had sent over is an object brimming with Yang energy. While it can't be consumed directly, it should be beneficial to my father's illness if I were to brew it into a jug of good wine. This little brother has another secret formula as well; if I can sun-dry the Blood Ginseng and grind it into powder before using it to form a medicinal paste, it would definitely be effective to shield off wind and moisture for my father. Ling Tian thanks you on behalf of my father!" Ling Tian said earnestly and full of gratitude. After which, Ling Tian actually stood up to give a bow to DongFang JingLei!

However, DongFang JingLei almost spit out a mouthful of blood!

You are actually going to brew wine with this heavenly treasure?! You want to make a medicinal paste out of it?! After what you had just said, the heavenly treasure which I have given to you has been completely transformed into an ordinary herb to cure rheumatism! Is that bow of yours supposed to conclude this matter?! DongFang JingLei's originally amiable expression couldn't help but turn ashen. If not for Ling Tian's status, DongFang JingLei would probably give Ling Tian a good beating! After exchanging a few more pleasantries, DongFang JingLei quickly took his leave and left pitifully.

Ling Tian then elegantly sent his guest out and witnessed DongFang JingLei's men leave with a polite posture. After DongFang JingLei's men were no longer in sight, not a trace of calm could be seen on his face as he excitedly sprinted back to his courtyard. The two guards who were standing by the entrance then looked at each other in bewilderment. Just what was wrong with their young noble? A look of bitterness filled with joy? Was he happy or was he sad?!

As he was walking back, he saw Ling Chen and Yu BingYan giggling as they walked towards his courtyard. In excitement, Ling Tian laughed mischievously and pounced onto the two ladies, pulling them into his embrace. Feeling their soft bodies and smelling their fragrance, Ling Tian was without a doubt enjoying himself. With some force, he hugged the both of them and jumped right into his courtyard.

Being caught off guard, both the ladies let out a shriek as they pummeled Ling Tian with their fists.

"You brat over there, put my niece down! In broad daylight and witnessed by everyone present, a man and woman hugging each other without any restraint. How preposterous! Don't you know that my Yu Family is an elegant Great Family? How impudent!" Yu ManTian's loud roar could be heard as his face was flushed with anger as though he had suffered some huge grievance.

Ling Tian then didn't have a choice but to place the two ladies down as he rubbed his head in confusion. Since when did Yu ManTian turn into an old-fashioned man who bothered about such things? Did those words really come out from his mouth? With some remnant fragrance on his hands, he suddenly realized that the smell on both his hands was different.

Ling Chen smelled like natural lilies and a fresh orchid smell belonged to Yu BingYan. At this moment, both their fragrances were so distinct. With a face full of intoxication, Ling Tian couldn't help but put his palms by his nose as he took in two deep breaths. Then, he looked towards the two ladies with a lecherous look.

Ling Chen smiled like a blooming flower as she revealed a trace of embarrassment with sweetness in her heart. However, Yu BingYan was not able to be so composed. She was still a young virgin and was actually hugged by a man in the presence of her third uncle. In that instant, her face was completely red as she was at a loss for what to do. Looking at Ling Tian with her head slightly lowered, she saw him smelling the hands which he used to hug the both of them with a face full of intoxication. She then couldn't help but turn her body around as she lowered her head and stomped her feet on the ground with her ears bright red.

Yu ManTian then walked over aggressively with a look of hatred on his face as he rubbed his fists, "Ling Tian! You little gigolo! This Third Master will not let you off today! You actually dare to harass my niece?! This Third Master will definitely teach you a lesson!"

During the auction, the 'scholarly' Third Master Yu had no interest in the so-called heavenly treasures and went out of the city early in the morning. However, who would have thought that he wouldn't see Ling Jian and the five other brats after waiting for a full afternoon! After he arrived back at the Smoky Thea Tower in frustration, he found out that he had missed a huge show and was completely depressed in his heart.

After that, Yu BingYan said that she wanted to go over to the Ling residence which was exactly what Yu ManTian wanted. Thus, he sent his niece to the Ling Family as he thought about how he could make Ling Tian have a fight with him. Even if he couldn't fight Ling Tian, he would definitely be able to get some good wine for sure. Who would have thought that after arriving at the Ling residence for a short while, Yu ManTian got the chance that he was waiting for!

Regardless of whether or not both of you are mutually in love, this Third Master can't be bothered with that. Since this Third Master has found my reason, I must have a good fight first before we talk about anything else.

Ling Tian shook his head as laughed bitterly. How could he not understand Yu ManTian's thoughts? However, this was not a good time for him to fight. There was still a Blood Ginseng in the room waiting to be tested, and a pile of precious herbs and Ice Fire Lotus waiting for him to refine into the Great Cyclic Pellet. The strength of Ling Chen, Ling Jian, the other brats, and himself was waiting to be increased, and Yu BingYan's Divine Black Negative Meridians were waiting to be cured! However, Yu ManTian just had to appear at such a time!

"Third Master just wants to have a fight right? You just have to say it." Ling Tian said impatiently.

Yu ManTian's eyes lit up, "Smart! Little gigolo, this Third Master has that intention!"

"Then come at me quickly, what are you still dawdling around for?" Out of Yu ManTian's expectations, Ling Tian was even more enthusiastic than him! Before Ling Tian finished his sentence, he had already adjusted his body into a posture ready for a fight. At that moment, Yu ManTian couldn't help but regret, If I had known that this brat was also a martial arts maniac, this Third Master would have come ten or twenty times already! Why did I have to fight the bunch of brats?

With a loud roar, Yu ManTian's fighting intent exploded as he took great strides over. With every step he took, everyone present could feel the ground shake slightly. As though he was a mountain, Yu ManTian walked over with an imposing pressure.

With the heart to quickly finish the battle to tend to more important things, how would Ling Tian have the interest to drag this battle out with Yu ManTian? A loud whistle could then be heard as Ling Tian's body lifted into the sky and flew towards Yu ManTian like a feather.

Yu ManTian's aura had already been condensed to the point where he only needed one more step to reach the peak of his aura. At that moment, it would be the best time for him to make his move! The attack launched would definitely be earth shaking! He was extremely clear about Ling Tian's abilities and understood that Ling Tian was no weaker than himself. Ling Tian definitely couldn't be compared to the five brats, and Yu ManTian naturally wouldn't show any mercy like how he did to the five brats!

Who would have thought that right before he took the last step, which was also the most important moment, his opponent would disappear from his sight? His originally towering aura suddenly seemed to have disappeared! At the same time, a powerful attack descended from above!

Ling Tian's feet seemed to have formed a spiral as he descended from the sky. His palm strike landed with an earth-shattering grandeur! When he was still 30 feet above Yu ManTian's head, the strong force generated from the palm strike had already made Yu ManTian's clothes flutter. The dust and sand below Yu ManTian also began to gather together as though there was a whirlpool.

Take the initiative to attack!

This move had completely destroyed Yu ManTian's aura and blocked all paths of escape. Yu ManTian could only face it head on!

As a XianTian expert, Yu ManTian was not flustered at all. Fighting with someone head-on also had its relevant techniques. Yu ManTian then let out a loud shout, which sounded like thunder in the bright sky, "Good move!" He then circulated his inner Qi to his palms as his burly body didn't bother avoiding the attack in the slightest. Springing off from the ground, his palms curved at an odd angle and he received Ling Tian's palms head on!

This was a secret art of the Yu Family: Three Palms Supporting the Heavens!

With a loud bang, a gigantic dust cloud could be seen and Yu BingYan felt the whole Ling residence tremble slightly. At the same time, she felt a stabbing pain in her ears as they began to ring. On top of that, the strong force of the collision also caused her to feel a strong wave of dizziness. Upon noticing that, Ling Chen quickly held onto Yu BingYan's palm and sent a wave of gentle inner qi over. Yu BingYan then felt a warmth in her heart as she shook off her dizziness and gave a smile to Ling Chen.

After the collision of their palms, Yu ManTian's body landed back on the ground and the tiles surrounding him began to shoot out in all directions! Furthermore, Yu ManTian's legs could be seen diving deeper and deeper into the soil until the point it reached his knees. With a loud roar, Yu ManTian circulated his inner Qi and jumped out of the ground. The black soil then spewed out like a fountain and two new craters appeared on the ground.

Being filled with inner qi, Yu ManTian's body was as firm as steel. After receiving Ling Tian's palm strike, he was like a nail that was hammered right into the ground!

With just a single move, it was enough to display the magnificence of both their skills. At the start, Ling Tian cleverly took the initiative to destroy Yu ManTian's built up aura and sealed all routes of his escape. At that time, Ling Tian could be said to have the upper hand and if Yu ManTian were to receive the attack head-on he would lose without a doubt. However, Yu ManTian was indeed an experienced individual, jumping up into the air and colliding with Ling Tian before he could fully accumulate his momentum. At the same time, he gave himself some leeway for retreat. Thus, while he did lose out a little, he didn't win or lose this exchange.