37- A Crack In The Dark

In the light of the recent controversy in the cultivation world, Master Cui had come out of seclusion to prepare for battle. Not even someone like him was able to predict that the young master of Taohua would be taken hostage by the Yin Dragon Sect that now has become the enemy of the whole continent.

However, it was to everyone's knowledge that the young master, Yin Fan, had not been a beloved figure among the most influential figures of the three Sects. He had a natural talent for getting under everyone's skin at just a few of his words. However, Yin Fan had always been more than capable on his own as a young master with his ruthless combat skill and see-through ambitions. No one in the continent could ever punish him severely for this abuse of power over his own people and others. His father who had always laid low in profile would come to his rescue and pardon him numerous times for his treachery.

When the news of the death of Yin Dragon's Sect leader spread, not one could seriously say they hadn't expected it in the worse case scenarios. Yin Fan was a criminal to most of the population and when a high profile criminal committed another high profile crime, only a headshake would be given. Cruel to say that the death of Yin Hui was nonetheless only a matter within the Sect as long as there was an heir. No one outside the Sect could take serious actions for Yin Fan's treachery when the Yin Dragon Sect already supported its new master.

Despite that Yin Fan taking the young master of Taohua as a hostage was another different story. The other two Sects would not sit still and a civil war was already inevitable at this point.

"Master." Ciu Ning turned to the handsome young man that took a seat across from him. The streaming teapot was the only thing his dark eyes were focusing while he spoke to his master, "I have ended the training early as you've commanded."

He observed Wu Huan's expression closely, "I see. It is only wise to let the bodies rejuvenate and store energy before a big fight. They have trained more than they have ever been. It's not their spirits that are lacking. It's the physical limits."

Wu Huan only nodded. The high ponytail that used to give him a permanent youthful look had been turned into a half-do. In a period of three months, Wu Huan had seemed to be more mature.

Ciu Ning noticed that his manner was becoming more similar to his first disciple but also was yet entirely different. He understood that the change wasn't just from the concern for the well-being of his senior brother. A foreboding feeling filled his chest and told him that it was nothing he could control.

He hesitated but his lips moved out of concern, "Wu Huan, is there something you haven't told master about? Bai Lei had told me you have been having nightmares as of recently."

Wu Huan had moved his eyes to the peach blossom behind Ciu Ning, "Autumn is coming. Master does not have to worry about such matters. I also have something to report. The disciples stationed in the North noticed continuous signs of movement from the demon king. Last night, Gao Li was spotted entering the mountain. If that man is not taken down as soon as possible, I'm afraid Mo City will be under his full command."

"He does control the West and the East. The demon king has thousands of bandit he has recruited while he bided his time recovering. The sect leaders haven't captured Gao Li in fear that he would threaten us with the lives of the citizen. It's the only best option we can think of pretending to believe his innocence."

"Gao Li already realized this, Master. He has issued strict rules on the borders and not many can travel out of the cities anymore. But if we strike him, he will also surely close down trade as well."

"The East is not a matter of importance compared to Mo City. Lately, they have also been cutting down on our food and good supplies. It may be a civil war on the surface, but there is no mistake that the second demon war is starting...Hua'er, have you heard anything from the South?"

Wu Huan took a moment to respond and he looked even more displeased, "Yin Fan continues to force normal citizens into training. He killed some of our spies and hung them over their front gates. The alive ones had fought to retrieve their dead bodies and they are currently being transported here. It would take another day to arrive."

Master Ciu closed his eyes in silent prayer. "In two days' time, there will be a small meeting in Lan Yan Sect. Sect leader has asked wanted you to attain in his place."

"Lan Yan?"

"I know your relationship with your uncle, however, the Sect leader is busy over the newly built warehouses in the city. He trusts you to handle the meeting for him. Huan'er, make sure to put your personal feeling aside."

There was not much reaction outwardly, but Wu Huan had become very quiet.

"As you have known, we will rescue Hua'er next month once we finish assembling the troops of the North and Central disciples. The meeting is to assign you as the head of the campaign."

His lips had moved in surprise but he had decided against it. Wu Huan cupped his hands, "Thank you, master. I will not let anyone down."