It was too sudden. The old man created from the smoke didn't have enough time to react as the other party had already moved his hand towards him. But he had remained shocked only for a moment since it wasn't his real body and was just made of incense smoke. Even if he received an attack, there wouldn't be any real danger. It was his turn to reveal a smile full of ridicule this time.
Ignorant human.
However, when Jiang Xiu's hand grabbed him, he felt as if his soul got caught. An acute pain surged through him, causing his expression to turn paler, immediately after which he screamed like a rat caught by a human.
"God Controlling Art!"
Jiang Xiu's pupils expanded, his eyes turned completely black, exposing a very awful glint. He chanted spell words from his mouth.
"You… aren't human!"
The old man's avatar tried to struggle with all his strength while an intense light appeared from the incense smoke. Jiang Xiu had forcefully pulled his divine soul from inside, causing the old man to feel frightened. He had never heard of someone possessing such extraordinary methods which can grab the soul of a person through an avatar made of smoke.
"Hahaha…"
Jiang Xiu laughed with an excited expression and opened his mouth under the alarmed gaze of the old man. He breathed in suddenly, causing the surrounding light to enter his mouth.
He was planning to devour the live soul.
This was something really unbelievable to the old man.
"AAAAAHHHHHHHH!"
The old man was terror-stricken and cried out in fear with a huge voice. The attractive force from Jiang Xiu's mouth only kept increasing at a frightening rate. The light gathering at his mouth shined upon the entire tea room, making it seem like it was daytime.
Then in the next second, Jiang Xiu's expression turned strange, and that light turned dimmer before turning pitch-black. The divine soul seized this opportunity to run away. That smoke avatar entered the mask and disappeared without a trace.
"Damn it!"
Fury filled Jiang Xiu's eyes. At that moment, his divine force couldn't keep up. God Devouring Art was an extremely high-level Divine Art. It was possible to devour the divine soul and nourish the Godhead greatly. It could've allowed him to step into the 3rd Mythical Realm and bring about the 3rd Divine Regalia, but Deity Xiu had forgotten that he wasn't the same Deity Xiu as before. His current divine force was insufficient in using the art until he had devoured the divine soul.
As a result, the art was only half-executed, and without any divine force to continue, the other party had gotten away.
Crack!
A noise resounded in the room as the mask cracked and broken into two pieces.
This movement was naturally dubious. There was no doubt that the old man got extremely frightened as anyone would've been if their soul was caught by someone who wished to eat it. It was nearly a nightmare.
"Humph!"
Jiang Xiu felt irritated because he had lost an opportunity to raise his cultivation.
"The prey which this Deity set his eyes on has never escaped."
He picked up the mask, the divine faith which was barely there before had already disappeared. It was just scrap piece of metal now, made of bronze and centuries old. Perhaps Tang Zhenshan could sell it as an ancient artifact and cheat over a million or two.
After throwing the mask aside, he returned to his room and started cultivating.
After some time, he had absorbed the remaining spectral energy from the pearl and then began to refine the divine force. He chose the most orthodox Divinity Cultivation Art, Dao Heart Seed Divinity Art.
Dao Heart Seed Divinity, it was the most primordial style to refine divine force. It's just like planting a seed and then nurturing it as it germinates. After it matures completely, everything would pour into the seed, and then this seed will be planted again, followed by germination and until it matures yet again. This process repeats, and through this, the divine force purified unceasingly.
Bubbubbub!
The blood within Jiang Xiu's body began to simmer like boiling water.
"Hmm?"
Jiang Xiu felt slightly surprised. According to his judgment, the time it'd take to condense a seed using the divine force in his body and place the seed on the divinity source should've taken at least an hour or two. However, the speed had exceeded his expectations as it only took a few minutes. Even the rate with which the divine force was maturing after he placed the Divinity Seed had surpassed his previous calculations.
"This matter really startled this Deity."
Jiang Xiu's body was unexpectedly quite suited to this purification art. Deity Xiu revealed a pleased smile when he sensed the quick cultivation speed.
Cultivation speed was related to the innate talent. A faster cultivation speed meant that the grade of the Godhead which Jiang Xiu would awaken would also be higher. Although it was difficult to gauge the potential during the early stages of Divinity Cultivation and hard to guess what it'll mature into, this was definitely a good sign.
This only piqued the interest of Jiang Xiu even more as he was a cultivation fanatic.
By the time he had finished a grand circulation, the divine force's purity had achieved a qualitative leap. The minutest particles in his blood began to tremble as if they were about to break free from some kind of shackles.
"It's evolving?"
Deity Xiu's mood turned anxious.
Before he even had the chance to react, it seemed as if his Divine race's bloodline, as well as genes, were filled with an explosive and significant amount of power.
The divine force in his strength also increased by a large margin.
If someone could look at Jiang Xiu right now, they'd notice a flame-like light emitting from the outer layer of his body's surface.
"It seems like this Godhead is pretty good."
Jiang Xiu was quite experienced and knowledgeable, but he never heard of someone awakening while purifying divine force. That'd only happen when someone breaks through a bottleneck after a long time. However, the time he took to make his first breakthrough was just after single circulation.
"Did this Deity make a mistake?"
This speed was quicker than Immortality Cultivation. Even the rate with which Jiang Xiu had cultivated on the Immortal Martial Continent and caused those chosen individuals to bow their heads wasn't this fast.
"This… what's happening?"
Another new Divine Regalia had appeared on Jiang Xiu's arm. There were already three of them now and placed randomly. This was another good omen.
There would be lesser Divine Regalia if the Godhead was weak and the pattern would also be smaller. Usually, the pattern was already a bit discernable by the 3rd regalia, but it wasn't apparent for his. This meant that his Godhead had more regalia and that it'd be something extraordinary.
"The Divine race bloodline of Earthlings is so powerful?"
According to what Jiang Xiu knew, the spiritual force on Earth had depleted, there were no more Immortality Cultivators, and all of them were ordinary men. Even if the ancestors were from the Divine race, it didn't mean that they were powerful ones. It was due to this reason that Jiang Xiu had felt helpless when he chose Divinity Cultivation, but it seems like he was wrong about this.
"It doesn't make sense!"
Jiang Xiu was sure about one thing. It was that Earth had existed for a long time and human history alone dated back several ten thousand years. It is said that the destruction of human beings has occurred twice on Earth. Of course, it was something those bored scientists had inferred.
"Those scientists didn't guess it correctly, right?"
Before he realized it, the sky had already brightened outside. He looked at the time, and it was already 9 AM. He was already late to class, but Deity Xiu wasn't planning to act like a goody-shoes. He got ready at his own pace and then left the villa.
After heading out, Jiang Xiu entered a five-star hotel to eat a deluxe breakfast and then went to school. The morning subjects had already ended by then.
After he entered, Ye Bing closed in on him seamlessly, "Humph! What? Did you get scared by this Lady and didn't dare to come to school?"
As some students beat up another student, it wasn't uncommon to hear that someone got scared to come to school because of fear.
Early morning, when Ye Bing saw that Jiang Xiu hadn't come to school, a scene flashed in her mind - She had become a bad student who caused all the students to avoid coming to class - and this filled her heart with guilt.
She finally relaxed when she saw Jiang Xiu appear and decided to forget what she had said before about hitting him every time he appeared in front of her.
Jiang Xiu looked at this unreasonable beauty before him, who was a girl so stupid that it made people's liver hurt, "This Deity is very afraid!"
I'm really afraid!
Afraid that I'll die due to your stupidity!
"That's good, let's see if you dare to provoke this Lady again. I'll let you go this time, but you mustn't come near my house again. Just text me if there's something."
After saying this, she flipped her jet-black hair and walked away feeling joyfully satisfied.
"Ignorant girl, you're foolish!"
The days passed by as usual without any events. The classes proceeded customarily, it was just that the time for the college entrance exam was nearing, so the mood in the classroom became increasingly tenser.
Under the influence of this atmosphere, Jiang Xiu picked up a book for the first time ever to take a look.
The memory and understanding of the Divine race were quite high. It was possible for the Divine race to comprehend even the Heavenly Dao, let alone remembering a few words and equations. That was easy-peasy.
Today, Jiang Xiu had gone to class as usual, but Tang Wenchong had called him then.
The Heavenly Dao Religion's Dao Soldier Grand Ceremony was going to begin.
Dongzhou district was to the south of Jiang City and closer to the sea area. It comprised of 70% mountains and 30% fields. Several hundred years ago, a devastating natural disaster had caused the Heavenly Dao Religion to emerge, and they left behind a quite profound mark in the local history.
Located halfway along the slopes of several mountains were the temples of Heavenly Dao Religion, its vestiges. Each village's temple had the three words 'Heavenly Dao Religion' written on it with huge letters.
As for this day, when the Heavenly Dao Religion held the Dao Soldier Grand Ceremony, it was called as the Myriad Dao Festival by the locals.
Tang Zhenshan hadn't come this time as he was already old. His arm was also crippled, so he couldn't endure the arduous journey and therefore left it to Tang Wenchong to accompany Jiang Xiu.
Mountains roads appeared once the car passed into Dongzhou. This place was 10 years backward compared to Jiang City. Some of the movies and television shows which had an 80's or 90's setting were actually filmed at this location.
Today was not only the Myriad Dao Festival but also the day several of the underworld powers of Jiangnan arrived here, and the time when the underworld powers of Jiang City vied for the top position.
"Young Master Tang, you've finally arrived."
The Tang family had already made arrangements before they arrived. The car drove till a rural temple-like memorial hall.
Before the car could stop, a middle-aged man came running over. It was Big Lei. A beautiful woman who appeared to be in her thirties was beside him, who seemed like a native that had come to receive them.
"Young Master Tang!"
When he saw Jiang Xiu alight, he called out in an even more respectful manner, "Mr. Jiang!"
Seeing this, a glint flashed in the gaze of the quick-witted woman as she looked towards Jiang Xiu. She assumed that Jiang Xiu must be some big shot. She even noticed that Tang Wenchong stood a little behind Jiang Xiu and the manner with how he looked from behind revealed that he held Jiang Xiu above himself.
"Grandpa Lei, this is?"
"Jiang Luoxia, Mr. Jiang…" Big Lei wasn't willing to introduce Jiang Xiu to this woman as he believed she didn't have the qualifications, but as he was in front of Jiang Xiu, he couldn't act rashly and could only give the name.
"So it's Mr. Jiang, welcome to our place. It's an honor to welcome you."
"You're too polite!"
Jiang Xiu replied. These words of courtesy were common. However, Tang Wenchong and Big Lei looked at each other with astonishment after hearing Jiang Xiu, who held disdain for everything, say them.
As they went inside, Big Lei said in a quiet voice, "Young Master, something's wrong. Mr. Jiang has never paid attention to anyone, but he acted politely towards this woman. Does Mr. Jiang fancy her? I noticed that Mr. Jiang checked her body out a moment ago."
Tang Wenchong replied, "Maybe Mr. Jiang likes this type?"
That woman was in-and-around her thirties, it was the age when women matured fully. She wore a tight-fitting cheongsam which emphasized her curves. Her snowy thighs were revealed outside through the cheongsam's slits, and she wore black low-heeled shoes, which all-together brought out her charm.
The two of them revealed an understanding smile.
They schemed in their minds about how to deal with this matter appropriately.
"Mr. Jiang, over here…"
"I'm familiar with the roads here."
"So Mr. Jiang has been here before!"
Jiang Xiu knew this place quite well as he had spent more than half of his childhood here.
Actually, his fate with Dongzhou was quite profound.
The origin for all this was his childhood. His home was still well-off then. Jiang Yi was busy, and so was Lin Yueling, no one was available to take care of Little Jiang Xiu, so they had hired a nanny who had come from Dongzhou.
After the Jiang family had fallen, Lin Yueling was too busy to attend to her own matter. This nanny had remembered the kindness the Jiang family had shown in the past and raised Jiang Xiu instead of them for free. Jiang Xiu had studied from elementary school to 8th grade here, right until Jiang Yi was released from prison. He had returned back to Jiang City during his 9th grade and to prepare for the high school entrance exams.
Jiang Xiu had never heard about this Myriad Dao Festival when he was here, but he thought that it might've been so because he was too young back then and that it was kept in secrecy.
Entering between the mountains revealed a pleasant country scene with creeks passing by.
After three millenniums, though Jiang Xiu felt as if all of it happened a lifetime ago, this place hadn't changed even a bit.
"No need to follow me, I'll go alone!"
A smile rose up on his face. He naturally wanted to find his best friends during his childhood.
Tang Wenchong called out in worry, "Mr. Jiang…"
Jiang Xiu had already left by then.
"I wonder how Mama Xiang is?"
"Chu Qiancheng and the rest, are you all well?"
….
When Chu Qiancheng looked at him, he came dashing over and delivered a punch to Jiang Xiu's torso, saying in a rage, "Brat, you finally returned? It's already been 3 years since you left."
Jiang Xiu laughed, "Didn't I come back now?" He thought, Who could've guessed that this Deity would return to his region after three millenniums.
"Okay, okay. It's not like you didn't know the reason Young Master Jiang went to Jiang City is to study, that too in Jiang City's best Second High. It's almost time for the college entrance exam now." The youngster to the side was the same age as Jiang Xiu, called as Da Nian.
"You brat!" Chu Qiancheng felt unreconciled and gave another punch before dropping the matter. He had grown up together with Jiang Xiu and was Sister A'Xiang 's son. Before Jiang Yi had gone to prison, he also lived at the Jiang family's home. The two of them played together a lot in their childhood.
Looking at these fellows, a thought flashed through Deity Xiu's mind.
It's good that I've experienced a rebirth.
In the previous timeline, after the Jiang family had fallen, Jiang Xiu was in dire straits and felt ashamed to return. Afterward, he had lost connection with Chu Qiancheng. Many people were like this, they'd drift apart from their childhood playmates once they grow up and busy themselves in their own world. However, the happiness from that growth period is forever hidden in the bottom of their hearts.
Da Niang patted his sedan, "How is it?"
Jiang Xiu revealed an amazed expression, "Pretty good. You're even driving a car now, Young Master Nian. Looks like you've finally become a car owner."
Da Nian's father was the village head, so the amount of profit he made wasn't small.
Another important source of money was the Myriad Dao Festival.
"It's around 20k. It drives better on these mountain roads than other cars." Da Nian could be considered as one of the wealthy young masters of Dongzhou, although a third-rate one, it was still something amazing.
"Get on. I'll call some of the girls we used to play with before. Let's go to a restaurant."
Chu Qiancheng was also excited after hearing that, "Hey, I was just waiting for Young Master Nian to say this. Let's go eat barbecue today. The flavor of the countryside barbecue of A'Min's home is delicious."
"Let's go!"
Da Nian drove the car and began to chat, "Young Master Xiu, you've come at the perfect time. Do you remember that during some days, the adults didn't allow us to go outside?"
"We're allowed to do that now. It'll really broaden your horizons."
Jiang Xiu smiled faintly as he already knew what he was talking about.
Chu Qiancheng also agreed, "Right, Young Master Xiu, I was stunned when I saw it for the first time. Many big shots had come here and the amount they consider as chump change is enough to support us for a year. It's possible to make several ten thousands if the luck is good."
The car stopped outside a barbecue shop. Two beauties were already waiting at the doorway.
One was tall girl with a height which really stood out. She had perfectly straight legs, was around 170 cms tall, and wore tight jeans which fit her buttocks quite firmly. The other girl wasn't that tall, with a height around 155 cms. She had snow white skin, and pure, elegant features, seeming just like a lily.
The tall was Little Min, and the pretty one was called Chen Xue.
Dongzhou's water was quite good for the people, it was a place which produced many beautiful women.
"Two ladies, look who has come."
Little Min shouted as soon as she saw Jiang Xiu, "Jiang Xiu! You little baby. You still dare to return? Look at how this old woman lessons you!"
When Deity Xiu had left, he was in his 8th grade and wasn't that tall. As for girls, they matured faster. Little Min was initially tall and was a half a head taller than Jiang Xiu then.
Chen Xue acted in a more refined manner, giggling while covering her mouth.
Slap!
Little Min chased after Jiang Xiu, and Chu Qiancheng took this opportunity to daringly slap her perky butt when he saw it, causing Little Min to scream. "You're looking for trouble if you want to bully my brother."
"Damn Qiancheng. You dare to take advantage of this old mother?"
Little Min changed her target and started chasing Chu Qiancheng. Da Nian hinted to Jiang Xiu wretchedly, telling him to use this chance to slap Little Min's buttocks. Jiang Xiu quickly shook his head, thinking, Is it worth anything for this Deity to take advantage of a girl?
Da Nian saw him remain motionless and delivered a slap at Little Min's bootylicious butt himself, causing her to scream again.
Naturally, girls must not be hit in such a way after they grow up. But the countryside children were all quite wild in nature and took pleasure in such activities.
Youth… was really poisonous.
"Chen Xue, help!" Little Min gnashed her teeth in anger.
Chen Xue shook her head in a flurry.
At this moment, a party passed by the mountain road and arrived over here. Each one of them possessed an extraordinary presence and appeared to be someone with significant influence. The people leading the group was none other than Ye Bing's father, Ye Yiliang, as well as the old man.
Ye Yiliang was startled after seeing Jiang Xiu. He frowned when he saw Jiang Xiu look at him, "Why are you here?"
Jiang Xiu withdrew the friendly smile he showed to his childhood friends and didn't have any intentions to reply. Ye Yiliang felt quite furious seeing Jiang Xiu act so arrogantly, he wanted to teach him a lesson but also had to consider his identity when taking action in public. "This isn't a place for you to fool around. Take care not to lose your life."
On this day, many underworld powers contended for supremacy in Dongzhou during the Myriad Dao Festival. It was common for someone to die. This was the reason the village's elders didn't allow the children to watch the festival.
Old Lin stood behind Ye Yiliang along with several experts. All of them possessed a frightening murderous aura. Their gazes alone were enough to make people feel shivers all over the body.
Seeing these big shots, Chu Qiancheng and the rest became as quiet as a cicada in winter, not daring to utter a word.
"Take care!"
Ye Yiliang didn't even take a look back at Jiang Xiu as he passed by them, his manners filled with arrogance. The others could only look at with propriety.
"Director Ye, is he a member of the Ye family?"
Ye Yiliang sneered with disdain, "Him? You think there's a chance?"
"He doesn't even have the qualifications to look at my Ye family's doors!"
Everyone realized the situation and followed after Ye Yiliang. As they were relying on the Ye family as their patron, they had to clearly make out the relation between Jiang Xiu and the Ye family. Since Ye Yiliang had already declared it, they understood how to act.
He was an insignificant nobody. Someone who wasn't even worthy of Director Ye's attention.
Only after they went far away did Chu Qiancheng and the rest recover from their shock. Da Niang asked, "Young Master Xiu, do you know him?"
"I've met him before once."
"It's a pity…"
Da Nian sighed while pointing towards a person following behind Ye Yiliang, "Do you see that person at the end? He's Ao Fei, from Dongzhou's Li family, the top crime lord of Dongzhou."
Everyone's faces morphed when he mentioned this.
"He's that Ao Fei?"
Jiang Xiu had an impression of him from when he was still studying here as Ao Fei was a famous criminal. During that age, youngsters were often scared as well as curious about this kind of person.
Da Nian nodded solemnly, "That's him. When I had seen him previously, he always had someone at his beck and call to do all kinds of things for him, But now, he's following behind that man like a thug!"
"Is that man so powerful?"
All of them were shocked.
Da Nian shook his head regretfully, "That's why I said it's a pity. If Young Master Xiu had become that man's friend, your road to success was naught but guaranteed, filled with countless achievements."
Jiang Xiu smiled, declining to comment.
Chu Qiancheng also agreed, "Young Master Nian is right. Nowadays, it's quite important to have a patron."
"Are you ready to get rich?"
Jiang Xiu looked back in astonishment while Chu Qiancheng just winked mysteriously in response to that, which only confused Jiang Xiu even more. The other three also made strange expressions, "Only, you better prepare your heart for it."
"What do you mean?"
Da Nian acted as if he hadn't heard that and minded his own work. As for Little Min and Chen Xue, their faces went pale. Little Min said, "Let's not take Baby there, not everyone can stomach that."
Little Min looked towards Jiang Xiu and earnestly sized him up. She discovered that he was half-a-head taller than her unlike in the past. Jiang Xiu was even taller than Chu Qiancheng as well as Da Niang and had become more handsome. His face shined like polished marble, and that gaze of his deeper like the abyss. He had become a lady-killer. Though she had a strange feeling in her heart, she couldn't help sneak a glance at him.
Jiang Xiu asked, "How are we going to get rich?"
Chu Qiancheng looked around and made sure no one was present, saying in a quiet voice, "Have you ever witnessed a murder?"
Crash!
The cup of water in Chen Xue's hand fell to the ground and broke into pieces.
Her face turned paler as she hurried to pick up the glass pieces. Little Min also went to help her.
"What do you mean by murder?"
Chu Qiancheng replied, "Myriad Dao Festival is a contest to vie for the supremacy of the criminal world, regardless of life or death on the stage. The betting amount reaches a frightening sum, ranging from millions to over a hundred million. You can bet on people with a little bit of capital and make a 100-fold turnover by the end of the day."
Jiang Xiu thought, So this is what he meant.
"You saw Young Master Nian's car, right? You must've thought his father bought it for him but actually, he bought it himself." Chu Qiancheng's eyes gleamed when he said this.
Jiang Xiu said, "Let's go take a look then."
From the reaction of the girls, he had already guessed that the scene would be very blood reeking and cruel. The money people bet had already made them insane, so they were ready to bet their own lives.
"Young Master Nian, you won't be coming this time?"
Da Nian shook his head, "No, it's already time for the Myriad Dao Festival. The old man will surely try to find me to handle the matter of booths, so you go together with Jiang Xiu and come to my home for drinks when you're done."
Little Min also didn't plan to go together with them, saying she had something to do at home.
"Fudge!"
Jiang Xiu looked at Chen Xue with a gaze full of astonishment. She had grown prettier over the past three years, transforming from a firmly secured lily into an alluring full-bloom lily. Only, her face was quite pale now.
"I need money!"
After having lunch, the party of 2 men and women set off. The contest was being held inside the village temple. It was a sacred ground but had now become a land of slaughter.
"Hey, you at the front!"
While they were walking on the read, Jiang Xiu's party heard someone shout towards them. Turning back to look, it was a group of young people, filled with both men and women alike. They wore fancy clothes, not mentioning that they were fashionable, their cost alone seemed like it'd be in the range of a few hundred thousand. One look at them was enough to determine that they were outsiders and had quite the backing too.
"You're natives, right?"
The speaker was a girl, her voice sounding clear and pleasant, bringing comfort to the ears. She seemed to be from the North due to her accent being similar to those from the Imperial Capital.
Jiang Xiu was in a daze after he glanced back. That girl's height was around 170 cms. She had long hair and wore a white cap, giving her a sporty aura. Adding her charming face on to it, it drew the gazes of several men.
It's her!
"I didn't expect I'd meet her here."
Lin Mi!
The eldest daughter of the Imperial Capital's Lin family, Jiang Xiu's uncle's daughter, his cousin. He had met her when he had visited the Imperial Capital in the previous timeline.
Chu Qiancheng replied, "Yes, what is it?"
Lin Mi's gaze swept across Jiang Xiu's party, "Do you know where the Crime World Supremacy Contest is being held?"
The Crime World Supremacy Contest was the mortal hand-to-hand combat to produce a crime lord. Before, its name was known as the Dao Soldiers Meet but then its nature changed gradually, transforming into the Crime World Supremacy Contest.
This contest allowed their subordinates or advisors to participate in their stead or do the combat personally. It'd go on until it's the last-man-standing.
"I know!"
"Lead the way, and you shall gain a considerable sum."
"Give the money first!"
Lin Mi hinted towards a person behind her. That person took out a wad of cash, which appeared to be worth 2000 RMB looking at its thickness. A smile appeared on Chu Qiancheng's face as he took the money and slapped it with his hands, "Follow me!"
The man who handed over the money laughed coldly, "These savages. Just this much money is enough to make them ecstatic."
"Mimi, this Crime World Supremacy Contest isn't anything worth mentioning,. It's just some outlandish fight. There was no need for you to come all the way here to watch it as there are many similar competitions in the Imperial Capital."
"I'm afraid you'll only be disappointed here."
Another youth spoke up, "Right. Which place doesn't have underworld fights? High-level ones usually happen in Jingmen city. They even brag that true martial arts disdain coming to this place."
"Bro, teach them all a lesson when you go up on the stage."
Jiang Xiu's gaze swept across those two men, they hadn't even cultivated Inner Strength and were probably MMA practitioners who hadn't touched genuine experts.
They were completely oblivious that this was a land of slaughter.
Lin Mi said, "The legends of Dongzhou's Crime World Supremacy Contest are quite famous in the underworld. It's a rare opportunity, so it's better to experience it."
"Moreover, the money involved is huge."
At the front, Chu Qiancheng led the way while counting the money and then divided it to Jiang Xiu as well as Chen Xue, giving 500 to each. Jiang Xiu gave his share to Chen Xue, which caused her to ask in a surprised tone, "Why are you giving it to me?"
"Aren't you short of money?"
Chen Xue hesitate a bit, and then received it while biting her lips, "Thank you!"
Lin Mi had observed all of this and glanced towards Jiang Xiu. She had no clue who this person was, and there was no chance that she'd think that this man was the son of her aunt who had left home.
They had neared the village temple, and along with it, the sounds of cheering from inside became louder.
After completing the task of delivering Lin Mi's party to the village temple, Jiang Xiu and his friends were about to enter as well when someone shouted from inside, "Move aside, move aside!"
A group of youths came out carrying a bloodied man with broken limbs. A woman attended to him at the side with a face full of grief, "His hands and feet are broken. Even if he heals, he'll be a handicapped person."
Emotions stirred up inside Jiang Xiu when he saw this woman. She was around 50 years old but looked quite healthy. He called out to her, "Sister Xiang!"
It was none other than Jiang Xiu's nanny, Chu Qiancheng's mother.
Sister Xiang turned around, her wrinkled face lighting up in surprise, "Little Xiu!"
Even though she hadn't seen him for 3 years, Sister Xiang could recognize him in a single glance.
Her amazed face turned cold in an instant as she turned towards Chu Qiancheng and lashed out, "Little brat. How come you brought Little Xiu to such a place? Leave with him right now."
A robust man to the side asked, "Is that the child who was sent to live at your home?"
Jiang Xiu still remembered him. He was the old village chief of the Southern Mountain Village. Everyone called him Old Ironhead. He used to roam around everywhere with a tobacco pipe in his hand.
"Yes, Village Chief still remembers me."
A few of the village's best fighters were standing beside the village chief.
"You're called Jiang… Jiang Xiu, right?"
"Yes!'
"Move aside, move aside!"
A disturbance arose within the crowd again when another bloodied youth got brought outside.
"What? Did we lose again?"
Sister Xiang didn't even have the time to lesson her son and Jiang Xiu.
Jiang Xiu asked, "What happened?"
Chu Qiancheng answered him, "During the past two years, the conflict between our village and the Northern Mountain Village had become too vicious due to the business during the Myriad Dao Festival. Several lives were even lost. To settle his matter, both villages agreed to the Crime World Supremacy Contest as the medium. Whoever loses will lose the qualifications to participate in the Myriad Dao Festival. This matter is related to the livelihood and also our enmity, so everyone's doing their best."
The local customs of Dongzhou were very valorous. An armed confrontation between villages was a common occurrence right from the 1970's, and it was normal for someone to die.
"Move aside, move aside…"
Jiang Xiu glanced at the person as the others carried him; his cheekbones were twisted, and that man had already fainted.
"Sigh. Three men are injured already."
Sister Xiang sighed helplessly, "Our village isn't that well-off to invite an expert."
She realized that the target of her rants was actually Jiang Xiu after she said that, "Little Xiu, how come you're here? Do your parents know?"
"They don't know."
If he said that they knew and just in case Sister Xiang called home to ask, it'd create trouble, so he spoke the truth.
"You…"
"Also, you stinky brat. You actually brought Little Xiu to this place. Wait till we return home."
Chu Qiancheng said, "Mom, I just wanted to help Jiang Xiu win some money."
Sister Xiang muttered to herself. She understood the circumstances of Jiang Xiu's home the best. They were a wealthy family but declined so much that they sell fruits in the city now and their income was limited too. She said helplessly, "Go in together, okay?"
Tsunami-like yells resounded within the temple grounds.
A new match was going on the arena right now.
Jiang Xiu was unaffected, but Chen Xue's complexion turned pale. She had already come here yesterday, and just a look at this scene of slaughter had given her goosebumps. She ran at the first view of blood. But today, she had come to make money, her tiny hand holding the money was trembling.
The fighter invited by the Southern Mountain Village was already on his last straw. He was lying on the ground, receiving one punch after another to his head until it started to bleed.
The scene was bloody!
"We're going to lose again!"
Sister Xiang stated helplessly when she saw this scene.
"Is the effect large if we lose?" asked Jiang Xiu.
"Big?" Chu Qiancheng's eyes opened wide, "Ever since the Dao Soldier Meet changed into the Crime World Supremacy Contest, its nature had also changed. Influential families, gangs, sects as well as several underworld powers take part in it. Let alone money, some even bet their lives on it by betting their entire fortune."
"Although the conflict between our villages hasn't reached the point of betting all our livelihoods, it's almost reaching that point now."
"Do you think the effect would be small?"
The reality was indeed cruel. This was completely different from the peaceful laws of society. These hadn't come up recently, but it was the result of the Heavenly Dao Religion emerging during the time of calamity and influencing the local people.
"Move aside, move aside…"
The man who lost was brought outside on a stretcher.
Chu Qiancheng asked, "Mom, isn't the next fighter Chen Yibing?"
"Right, it's Chen Yibing."
"Is he strong?"
"Our Southern Mountain Village spent a huge sum of money to invite him. Though he's quite arrogant, we can only rely on him this time and hope that he'll win."
Jiang Xiu spoke to Sister Xiang, "If you don't feel confident, this D… I can help."
Sister Xiang was frightened, thinking about what crazy things this child was saying. "I appreciate your kindness, but lives are bet on the arena. You saw the people who left the arena, right? You'll be lucky if you end up with only broken limbs. If your luck's bad, you can even die on the scene. Just look at your small figure. Take care of your parents instead of having such thoughts, okay?"
Jiang Xiu's hair fluttered, his gaze turned sharper and voice deeper as he spoke in a lofty tone, "Sister Xiang. I'm powerful and can fight quite well."
"This trivial contest, I can end it with a single blow."
Sister Xiang didn't know whether to laugh or cry, "Okay. Don't make trouble now. Act a bit obedient."
"Sister Xiang…"
"Really…"
Deity Xiu felt gloomy and even a bit moody. Why don't you believe this Deity's earnest words. Do you think this Deity is telling lies to cheat you?
Unbelievable. This is simply unbelievable.
"Brother Bing! Brother Bing!"
Chen Yibing's height was around 180 cms. His body was quite ripped, and he had a tattoo of a tiger's head on his body with a noticeable scar on his forehead. It gave him a baleful look.
He seemed to be around 20 to 30 years old.
His eyes weren't that big but had an ominous glint in them.
One look at him was enough to determine he was a fierce person.
Jiang Xiu asked in a bad mood, "Sister Xiang, how much did the village pay to invite him?"
"Three million!"
Jiang Xiu sucked in a cold breath. He felt it was really unbelievable. The grand Deity Xiu was ready to appear for free, yet they refused him, but they were willing to spend three million for such a person. Jiang Xiu felt his teeth ache.
Chu Qiancheng fished out all the money on him. It came to around 10,000 RMB, and he bet it all on Chen Yibing.
Chen Xue clenched her teeth and also planned to bet the 3000 she had.
However, a hand suddenly stopped her. It was Jiang Xiu's. "You must not bet!"
"He'll lose!"
Jiang Xiu had taken a look at the expert invited by the Northern Mountain Village. The other party was an Inner Strength expert, and Chen Yibing hadn't even cultivated Inner Strength. It was evident that Chen Yibing will lose.
"Bah!… Stop saying rubbish."
The fight is about to begin, and you're saying such demoralizing things.
"I'm speaking the truth…"
He hadn't even finished speaking when Chen Xue covered his mouth with her hand, "Baby, don't say such things again or else I'll hit you."
"… …"
Deity Xiu was quite angry as the consequences were quite grave. This Deity wants to help you, but you actually don't believe this Deity."
The people from the Southern Mountain Village got nervous after the fight began.
"He'll win. He has to win."
Chu Qiancheng and Chen Xue mumbled to themselves. They had bet all they possessed on this match.
"Brother Bing, you can do it…"
Jiang Xiu's gaze fell on the arena. He said indifferently, "7 moves!"
Inner Strength martial artists were different from ordinary martial artists. When an average martial artist slashes at a huge rock with a blade, no matter how strong he is, he will damage it a bit at most. But Inner Strength martial artists, especially those with deep cultivation, could use the blade to split open that huge rock.
The disparity in strength was clear from this example.
Bang!
Force met with force as their fists collided with each other, followed by a snapping sound. Chen Yibing retreated a step back with a face full of pain. The arm with which he punched was trembling fiercely. At that moment their fists met each other, he had felt as if the opponent's power was invading his arm like a wave, causing his bones to tremble.
"AAAHHHH!"
The opponent shouted as he leaped towards him. Chen Yibing rushed to dodge sideways and also kicked out towards the opponent simultaneously. The opponent didn't avoid it and directly elbowed his thigh. Chen Yibing screamed in pain.
"2 more moves!"
Jiang Xiu didn't even take a look at the arena after that.
The people from the Southern Mountain Village turned silent. Their confidence from before disappeared completely. Even a blind person could make out that Chen Yibing wasn't the opponent's match.
"Brother Bing… no… He won't lose, right?"
Chen Xue's voice quivered a little.
"O-Of course."
Chu Qiancheng wanted to cry. He had bet all his money on this.
"ARRGGHHH!"
Followed by a scream, Chen Yibing was kicked several meters back, losing consciousness on the scene. His limbs were broken, life and death unknown.
It ended in seven moves.
"Quick, lift him."
"Move aside…"
The village chief of the Southern Mountain Village and the others were left stupefied. Their final hope was gone now. Everything had ended.
The old village chief's legs failed him as he fell to the ground.
The side of the Northern Mountain Village cheered crazily.
"Old Ironhead, your Southern Mountain Village has lost. You're not allowed to get involved in the Heavenly Dao Religion business from now on. Otherwise, we won't stay idle and beat the crap out of you."
"It's not like you have any money left to do business though."
"Hahaha…"
All of the people from the Northern Mountain Village laughed wantonly.
"Smash all the stores that Southern Mountain Village has set up. Don't even leave one of them and carry off all the useful things."
"Yeah!"
The people from the Southern Mountain Village wore a dismayed expression. Sister Xiang said helplessly, "Southern Mountain Village has done its best. We can only blame that we don't have the money to invite a true expert."
Many of the men wanted to cry but endured it.
Chu Qiancheng and Chen Xue also despaired. Their money was gone, and so was their livelihood.
It was unknown how they the Southern Mountain Village would fare from now on. Perhaps they might have to go outside the village to look for work. However, it was evident that the Northern Mountain Village will grow prosperous and the Southern Mountain Village will become poorer.
During such a time of despair, a voice came through, "Who said that the Southern Mountain Village hasn't anyone left?"
"Jiang Xiu!"
He walked over towards the arena in large strides.
Sister Xiang and Chu Qiancheng shouted in alarm, "Has he gone mad or what?"
"Hmm? Mimi, it's that brat who guided us."
Sister Xiang was utterly shocked, thinking, Are you kidding? This isn't a place for a child to play around. You'll get killed if you go up on the arena.
She shouted in panic, "Little Xiu, come back!"
Jiang Xiu sneered in his mind. You didn't believe this Deity, so I'll let you all take a look at the overlord who had ruled over the Immortal Martial Continent for millenniums and was also the Sectmaster of the Heaven Treading Sect.
Black clouds had begun to gather in the sky just as he took a step forward.
When he took another step, lightning and thunder flashed in the black clouds.
"Quick. Qiancheng, bring Little Xiu back."
He had already dashed ahead before Sister Xiang finished, cursing Jiang Xiu as an idiot in his mind. He wasn't going to allow Jiang Xiu to go up on the arena no matter what happened. Chen Xue also blocked his path, her slender, pale hands pushed against Jiang Xiu's robust chest.
Even if they had lost the money and their livelihood, they had to at least save this life.
"What are you doing?"
He felt furious. This Deity is trying to act cool, no one can prevent it.
"Little Xiu, have you gone mad?"
"Calm down!!"
A few of the village's men noticed something was wrong and came up to pull Jiang Xiu back.
"We lost and have to pay the price. I know you're unwilling to take it down and want to help the village, but you can't go lose your life in vain. Even Chen Yibing wasn't his opponent so you wouldn't stand a chance!."
"You're just throwing your life away."
The old village also sighed helplessly, "The children are all good, but they are just a bit silly."
"Throwing my life away?"
"Hahahaha, idiots. You're stupid. Let go of this Deity. This Deity shall slaughter that plebeian."
Sister Xiang shouted anxiously, "Pull him back, quick…"
She was really anxious that Jiang Xiu would throw them off and dash towards the arena. Humans often did crazy things once they lose their mind. She wouldn't know what to say to Lin Yueling and Jiang Yi if something happened to Jiang Xiu.
Lin Mi and the others standing far away also helplessly shook their heads. To them, this was just a funny farce.
Only, Lin Mi curiously sized up Jiang Xiu. She felt that this youth was quite amusing. He had given the money he had obtained to his female companion and was also ready to do his best as the village lost, even though he was aware that he was no match for the opponent.
"Uncle Fu, what do you think about this person?"
A man of average height wearing a black hooded sweatshirt stood among the group of young people. If one took a careful look, they'd notice that he was quite old and was only wearing youthful clothes that covered his face using the hood. In fact, he was already over 50 years old.
"He doesn't possess any cultivation, but his conduct is proper."
"He at least has a generous spirit and isn't greedy. I feel he possesses a sense of honor."
Lin Mi nodded, "Right!"
"What are the young lady's intentions?"
Lin Mi gazed towards the far away Jiang Xiu, saying, "There are always intelligent people, talented people, powerful people, but devoted people are always lacking. My Lin family needs to buy the life of such a person during a crucial time."
"Does young lady plan on accepting him into the Lin family?"
Lin Mi smiled faintly, "Why not?"
Uncle Fu's expression morphed into shock, "This brat… His ancestors must've done a great deed. He actually obtained a change to enter the Lin family. In those days, I had strived quite hard to enter the Lin family but this brat…"
Lin Mi walked towards Jiang Xiu…
"Are you troubled?"
Lin Mi said, "Do you want to win?" Her gaze fell on Jiang Xiu's face. She discovered that although his clothes were unremarkable, he looked quite handsome and possessed an exotic aura. Though she couldn't make out the reason, it gave her a strange sensation.
"Naturally!"
If only he made a move, he could deal with that Inner Strength expert quite easily.
Lin Mi said in a lofty tone, "I can help you."
"Hmm?"
Jiang Xiu didn't need help, but he still felt strange about why Lin Mi wanted to help him. He first thought that she might've recognized him, but after thinking about it carefully, there was no possibility of that.
When he had met Lin Mi at the Imperial Capital in the previous timeline, she hadn't recognized him. This explained that she hadn't seen him previously so there was no way she could've identified him now.
"However, I have one condition."
Jiang Xiu looked at her curiously, "Say it."
"I can help you win this contest. Your village will be saved from this disaster and also enjoy future days peacefully. But in exchange, you have to follow me and pledge loyalty to the Lin family."
"Work for my Lin family."
The gazes with which the youths beside Lin Mi looked at Jiang Xiu changed, they were filled with envy. This was something many people yearned for. Although they'd become a servant, it was worth noticing whose servant they became. There was a difference between the Emperor's servants and servants of an ordinary person. Lin family was quite powerful, and even if he were a servant, he'd incur respect from several people. Just like that Uncle Fu between Lin Mi, no one would dare to disrespect him.
"What did you say?"
Ice-cold killing intent could be felt from the gaze Jiang Xiu looked at Lin Mi. That expression was as if he was looking at a dead person.
"Lin family, one of the ten commanders of the Imperial Family, that Lin family."
Whoosh!
Everyone made an uproar as they all knew about the 10 Great Revolutionary Commanders. Only, most of them were already dead. The only one still alive was from the Lin family, which was one of the top influential families in the nation.
"Brat, your luck's pretty good!"
"Hahaha, I think that brat has become an idiot due to the happiness."
One of the men accompanying Lin Mi joked.
Entering the Lin family was the dream of several people. Quite many wished to enlist in the military, walk the officialdom, or do commerce but there were none who didn't want to join a colossus like the Lin family.
Uncle Fu, who stood behind Lin Mi, spoke in an irritated tone, "Brat, what are you doing there standing like an idiot? Quicky thank the Young Lady."
Lin Mi's gaze remained calm. This was something that could thoroughly transform Jiang Xiu's ordinary fate. But to her, this was just a matter of speaking some words. A sense of superiority exuded off her.
Jiang Xiu raised his drooping eyes, a cold glint flashing through them, "You would've been dead already if you weren't a person of the Lin family."
To an influential expert like Jiang Xiu, asking to become a servant was a matter of extraordinary shame and humiliation.
Were it not for the relationship between her and his mother, Jiang Xiu would've reduced her to ashes and even slaughtered her entire family.
"What did you say?"
Lin Mi doubted whether she misheard those words. He's refusing me? Looking at his appearance, it's as if he has received a huge humiliation. To be able to enter my Lin family is something many people yearn for and you think it's humiliating?
"You're quite prideful, but it seems like you don't know what is called fate and chance… This is a chance which can change your entire life and let you become someone great."
"This Young Lady is bestowing you with boundless prospects."
Jiang Xiu raised his head and wore a smile filled with endless contempt, "Your so-called prospects is nothing but a pitiful joke in this Deity's eyes."
Whoosh!
The surrounding people made a commotion again. You actually look down on the Lin family?!
OMG! This person is insane, right?
"Arrogant kid!"
Uncle Fu shouted. Jiang Xiu was nothing but a little peasant from a remote and desolate place in his eyes, a nobody who he disdained. The old man believed that Jiang Xiu would climb up higher than him, but Jiang Xiu had actually trampled such an opportunity which even he'd feel honored to take. He naturally couldn't endure it anymore.
"Who do you think you are to look down on the Lin family?"
Lin Mi hinted Uncle Fu to calm down by raising her hand. Her gaze was still on Jiang Xiu's face, "This is the first time I'm hearing someone say that my Lin family is a joke, but what identity do you possess to say such a thing? A rural civilian? You must never forget your identity and situation."
"Just take a look. Each and every one is no better than a stray dog."
The people from the Southern Mountain Village lowered their heads in shame. They were really helpless towards the current situation. Even if they did their best, they couldn't change the result.
"My Lin family can settle this matter for you very easily."
No one doubted this as a matter as simple as lifting a hand to the Lin family.
"I'll ask you one final time."
"Are you willing to enter my Lin family?"
If a rural person refused the offer when the Lin family was tossing an olive branch to them, there'd be no face left for her Lin family.
Sister Xiang, Chu Qiancheng, Chen Xue and the rest nodded towards him, hinting him to promise.
This was the last chance.
If he accepted it, then the Southern Mountain Village's situation would completely overturn, and he'd also secure a guarantee for his future.
However, Jiang Xiu's cold gaze swept across her.
"This Deity will go to your Lin family, for sure."
"It's just that…"
"The day this Deity arrives at the Lin family is the day they'll kneel down and repent."
"What?" A frightening killing intent burst forth from Lin Mi's pupils at this moment. This youngster, a nobody from a mountain village, was actually boasting he'll crush the Lin family, which as so powerful that no one dared to speak ill of it.
Everyone present in the temple was astonished.
Has he gone mad?
Even if you're unwilling, you can just refuse by saying you don't possess the qualifications. There's no need for you to vilify the Lin family in such a manner and make an enemy of such a colossus.
"Kill him for me."
Young Lady Lin said in a rage, her bosom heaving up and down violently, just like a volcano which was about to erupt.
"KILL HIM!"
She wasn't pointing towards Jiang Xiu in front of her. In her eyes, Jiang Xiu was akin to an insect which the Lin family could crush to death in a second if they wished to do so. She could kill him and then settle the problem, but since Jiang Xiu had refused her, she wanted to first solve it and then make Jiang Xiu feel regret. She wanted him to kneel on the ground and plead her.
Therefore, she pointed towards the man on the stage.
The man who had defeated the fighter of the Southern Mountain Village.
"Understood!"
Uncle Fu responded. He leaped into the sky and stepped on the crew-cut youth's shoulder, using that momentum to jump towards the arena from a high altitude.
At the same time, he said, "One move!"
He had already punched out, which swept past the opponent like a tempest.
That man's face turned paler as he tried to counter the attack quickly, but the punch was quite hard to resist. It was as if several million pounds of force was moving towards him. He went limp and fell to the ground as if made of mud.
That man's head slanted in a strange direction, his pupils expanding as blood flowed from his mouth before he stopped moving.
"Dead…"
"He's dead!"
Hiss!
The people on the scene drew in a cold breath.
As for Uncle Fu, he had disappeared from the arena long ago and returned to his original location. Everything had happened too suddenly. It felt as if he hadn't moved at all. As quick as a storm, as fast a flash of lightning, just like a demon arriving to reap the life of a human. The others felt goosebumps when they looked at him again.
The temple became silent.
Lin Mi wore a flimsy expression on her pretty face as she took out a card and walked in front of Jiang Xiu. Her gaze filled with arrogance as he inserted the card into Jiang Xiu's pocket, after which she turned around and left, not even glancing back once.
Uncle Fu and the rest gave a cold smile towards Jiang Xiu then followed after her.
After leaving the temple, the crew-cut youth asked, "Mimi, are you going to let that brat off like this?" His fretfulness with his words revealed as he would have instead preferred it if Uncle Fu had killed that brat on the scene.
Lin Mi said in a confident tone, "A countryside brat naturally wouldn't know what the words 'Lin Family' signify, but after seeing Uncle Fu act, he'd surely revere my Lin family."
"He'll come to the Imperial Capital to kneel down at the Lin family's doors and beg."
The youth finally realized it. "So that's why you gave the card to him."
Lin Mi smiled coolly.
"Are we going to leave then?"
"Leave? The real show hasn't even begun yet. The underworld powers of Jiang City still haven't arrived. I want to see who becomes the underworld king of Jiang City."
After Lin Mi's party left, the people in the temple raised a commotion again.
"What shall we do now?"
Initially, the Southern Mountain Village had already lost, but the Northern Mountain Village's expert was dead now. Unfortunately, the person hadn't acted to help the Southern Mountain Village, yet they were the reason for it to happen. A quarrel began due to all this.
In the end, they weren't able to make a reasonable argument to settle the issue.
After leaving the temple, Chu Qiancheng said, "Young Master Xiu, why didn't you accept that offer from that young lady of the Lin family? Many people can only hope to join the Lin family, but their hopes are just in vain."
Even Chu Qiancheng was among them. It was after all the Lin family, from where one of the 10 Commanders-in-Chief had originated. The phrase, 'Passing through several officials to meet the Prime Minister,' explains the situation correctly. If Chu Qiancheng could become a doorkeeper or a chauffeur of the Lin family, he'd believe that's the best he could he achieve in his lifetime.
"Just what are you thinking, you brat?"
Chu Qiancheng felt quite regretful.
People have to make a decision in life sometimes, fate offers only a single chance at that time, and if missed then the person might remain mediocre forever. Chu Qiancheng believed Jiang Xiu had lost such an opportunity.
Chen Xue also agreed, "Yeah!"
She looked towards Jiang Xiu curiously. Before, she had felt Jiang Xiu was quite ordinary and even somewhat timid. She hadn't expected him to transform into a handsome guy in just three years. Even the Lin family had tossed an olive branch towards him, but what's more shocking was that he had refused it.
Jiang Xiu said, "I possess the means to reach the heavens and cut through all my obstacles with a swing of my arm."
"Something's wrong with your head!"
At this moment, Jiang Xiu's phone started ringing. He discovered that it was Tang Wenchong by looking at the caller id. As Jiang Xiu had left for too long and still hadn't returned by dinner time, he got anxious. "Mr. Jiang… Where are you? Shall we come there to receive you?"
"No need! I'll find a place to spend the night."
Many of the powers from Jiang City were standing beside Tang Wenchong. It included Big Lei as well as a member of the Battle Wolf Regiment of the Military, called as Tang Tao. There were a few people at his side, who were the representatives invited by the Tang family this time. If someone wanted to challenge the Tang family, they would go and fight them.
"Alright. Mr. Jiang, the Dao Soldier Meet is tomorrow. I request Mr. Jiang to not miss it."
Tang Tao furrowed his brows when he saw Tang Wenchong reveal a respectful expression subconsciously. He felt that the children of his Tang family had no need to act so servile towards a wild Jianghu member, "What Mr. Jiang? He's so arrogant."
Big Lei said, "That Mr. Jiang is quite powerful, Brother Tao."
"I offended him by mistake before. A whole 300 brothers couldn't deal with him. They were all dealt with in less than 5 minutes, and none of them could even stand up after that."
"Hahaha…"
Tang Tao started laughing loudly, revealing deep contempt in his eyes. The brothers at his side also shook their heads. Tang Tao patted Big Lei's shoulders, saying, "I'm not looking down on you, but as long as someone cultivates to the Inner Strength stage then they can deal with you and your subordinates quite easily."
Big Lei felt embarrassed and squeezed out a bitter smile. Aren't you just saying that we're all idiots?
"Tomorrow is the Myriad Dao Festival's Dao Soldier Meet. Let me take a look at what he can do for my Tang family when we've spent such a huge amount of money for him."
…
Jiang Xiu was naturally planning to spend the night at Sister Xiang's home. He had spent his youth here. Though the house was damaged, he wouldn't avoid it. Moreover, there was a beautiful location here.
He took out the ladder and climbed to the roof. He stood there and just looked at the scene reflected by the moonlight.
At this moment, his cell phone vibrated. It was a message from Ye Bing: Scoundrel Jiang Xiu. Skipping school the entire day, you're acting too arrogant.
Jiang Xiu smiled calmly. It was 9 PM now, just about the time individual study hours ended. He guessed that the girl, Ye Bing, was waiting till now to send the message.
Jiang Xiu: There's no need to explain this Deity's actions to you.
Ye Bing gave an instant reply: How is this not related? It has influenced our class's attendance due to you skipping subjects without any reason. Our class has already lost this week's little red flag for the attendance. This is all because of you. You don't even give the face this Lady should receive as the class monitor.
Jiang Xiu: Idiot, this trick will only fool children.
Ye Bing: You should feel honored then.
Jiang Xiu: Your honor is to strive to become this Deity's maid.
Ye Bing: Bah! You stinky rogue.
Jiang Xiu: Think about it. Just what kind of grand identity this Deity has. Though there's a chance you can succeed in becoming this Deity's concubine, there's no hope for that in this life as you aren't gentle enough.
On the other end, Ye Bing had almost gone crazy, her face flushing up due to his instant counters. She called Jiang Xiu after that and then started speaking when the call got connected, "Jiang Xiu, you're a damned scoundrel, utterly shameless. You'll not live past tonight, you retarded genetic-mutated child. Your mind is at the same level as an elementary school child. You're just a chimpanzee with a gender-hormone imbalance. You're the strongest wastrel of humanity who only pollutes the air by living. Damn pollutant, get lost as far away from me than the distance to the ozone layer!
Tut. The Young Lady Ye ended the call happily after that.
Now, it was Deity Xiu's turn to make a stupefied face.
Veins popped out on Jiang Xiu's forehead due to the anger, "This Deity is formally notifying you. Your qualifications to become a maid are no longer valid forever. FOREVER!"
On the next day, the sky still hadn't brightened, but the entire Dongzhou had already sunk into a holiday mood.
"Come, come over here!"
There was a Heavenly Dao Temple on a hilltop of Dongzhou. The sun had just risen up, yet it was already packed with people. The crowd was making quite the fuss.
"It's Boss Zhong from Shahe City."
"Qingshui's Wen Zuolin."
"Look over there fast, isn't that Grandpa Lei, Big Lei of Xincheng District?"
Formidable characters from each region had shown up so there was no doubt that they'd make a commotion. Some were excited, some shocked and some felt hate. All of them were overlords of their regions, who possessed the influence to do anything there.
"They have arrived here to aim for the No.1 position in Jiang City?"
This was something all of the present crowd understood. The Dao Soldier Meet had long ago degenerated and even the natives of Dongzhou didn't believe that there were Gods in this world. Only a few people pursued the ethereal realm of Dao Soldier.
"Tang family's eldest young master…"
Tang Wenchong, Tang Tao and the rest entered the place. Tang family was the typical case. They had only come to vie for supremacy and weren't planning to pursue that illusionary Gate to the World of Immortals.
"Have you seen Mr. Jiang?"
"Why hasn't he appeared yet?"
He had tried to call Mr. Jiang early in the morning, but the call couldn't connect through. He speculated that the phone might've run out of charge and actually, it really had. Jiang Xiu didn't possess a battery charger, and his phone was an old one, so it discharged quite quickly.
"Why has the Tang family only brought little shrimps over this time?"
"Hehe!"
The one who said this was Boss Zhong.
He yelled towards the Tang family members, "Those people ain't worth jack-shit. Everyone says that the Tang family has declined ever since the Old Father Tang became old. It looks like they were speaking the truth."
The members of the Tang family furrowed their brows.
"What are you trying to say?"
"Big Lei, you had the Tang family's protection before, but the Tang family's situation itself is in quite a pinch. Just wait for me to deal with you today!"
Boss Zhong nodded towards a short, middle-aged man beside him.
He dashed out from the crowd and jumped across several people as if he was moving along with the wind, landing on top of the arena.
Big Lei's face morphed. As Shahe City was close to Xincheng District, there was often friction between them. Their hatred had already deepened to the level where they were out for each other's life. Before, no one dared to challenge the Tang family because of Grandmaster Chu Tiannan supporting from behind, but now… there was no one.
A man beside Tang Tao said, "Let me go!"
"Battle Wolf Seven, are you confident?"
Battle Wolf Seven's gaze swept past the opponent, "He's cultivating a light movement art, the Eagle Claw Art. It's just a minor skill. If it isn't the Ancient Eagle Claw Art which cultivates both the inner and outer essence, there's no doubt that I'll win."
Saying this, he stamped on the ground and shot towards the arena like an arrow.
The two of them began to exchange blows immediately.
There was no one else present on the arena, so they began fighting.
It was quite the exciting scene.
Just one exchange of blows was enough to cause Tang Tao's heart to feel down. The opponent was using the Eagle Claw Arts, thaw claw even glowing faintly. This was making the inner essence appear outside, which happens when the Inner Strength is already close to approaching the Supreme stage. The power he held was enough to crush rock into pieces.
People were still coming in succession.
"It's the Ye family…"
"Ye Yiliang has arrived."
Ye Yiliang's reputation was widely known. He held the most prestige in Jiang City currently. On the front, he was the Chairman of a Conglomerate with property worth several billion. In fact, he was a child of the Ye Clan. Ten years ago, they ruled over Jiang City, but then suddenly withdrew and returned back after several years.
"Shahe City's boss and Tang family have already started."
Ye Yilian shook his head, "The genuine enemy still has yet to arrive, and they are struggling internally here."
Old Lin's expression turned solemn.
"Mimi, you were right. Looks like there's indeed a good show to watch."
A girl wearing a cap came inside, followed by a group of people. It was the eldest young lady of the Lin family, Lin Mi. The reason she had come to Dongzhou was to watch this fight.
"Dragons and snakes mingle together in Jiang City. The city's economic development has been quite fast recently so many people are keeping their eyes here. Many powers have infiltrated here today. Looks like it's going to be a wonderful day."
"Young Lady, take a look there. It's that brat!"
At a distance, Jiang Xiu, Chu Qiancheng, Da Nian, Chen Xue and Little Min were also looking at the lively crowd. They were helping some of the village's counters sell a few things from time to time.
Lin Mi laughed with disdain, "Just a street peddler!"
He already knows what he wants. Lin Mi could already feel that Jiang Xiu had drifted away from his friends because he hadn't participated in selling and had his gaze focused on the arena instead.
Jiang Xiu mumbled, "37 moves, defeat!"
He lost interest after that and didn't bother watching.
"Those people… Aren't they Bao Lingyun and Pei Shuai!" Jiang Xiu spotted two more acquaintances.
Little Min's face turned unsightly, "Don't bother with them."
"Those two scum!"
Bao Lingyun and Pei Shuai had noticed them and came over swaggering. A proud smile crept up on Bao Lingyun's face, "Working hard ain't ya? Little Min, Chen Xue. What will you two tramps even be able to sell? Follow this brother, and I shall make sure you live well." He stretched his hand towards a schoolgirl wearing sexy and revealing clothes, pulling her purse, he said, "It's a Chanel brand, 30,000 for one."
That schoolgirl's age wasn't big. She had worn gaudy makeup and made a proud expression.
"3-30,000…"
The people surrounding them opened their eyes wide in shock. These people lived on 3000 a year, 30,000 was enough to last them for 10 years, yet such an amount was used to buy a purse. It was a clear indication that person was a nouveau riche.
"We don't need it!"
Although they said this, the girls' gazed dimmed down. This was a natural reaction from their mind. The counterpart could show off a luxury good worth 30,000, and they had to worry about making 30 to 300 RMB. Moreover, they told themselves that they were better than people having nothing.
Bao Linyun looked at Jiang Xiu and said in a surprised tone, "Oh my! Just… take a look who it is. Isn't this that person who left the city to read… What's the name again…"
Jiang Xiu stated calmly, "Jiang Xiu."
"Right! I remember, the trash who got his ass handed to him by me."
Jiang Xiu was still quite small at that time and had encountered him, who had matured early and had a bigger body, often getting into fights with children. Jiang Xiu naturally didn't have the power to hit back at that time.
He got beaten up by Da Niang and Chu Qiancheng later, and the scar on his face was the result of that.
The hatred between them was set due to that.
Among Jiang Xiu's group, there was also a girl called Qie Ran. She was a delicate girl that was still remembered by Jiang Xiu, Bao Lingyun at that time had even fancied her. During that one day in Junior High School, they hadn't accompanied her, and she got held back. The outcome was that the girl lost her footing from the school's 2nd floor and fell to her death.
Since then, their hatred just deepened and they became as incompatible as fire and water.
Chu Qiancheng growled, "Enough, Bao Lingyun. No one wants your dirty money."
"You don't want it?"
Bao Lingyun took out a note, there was no need to say, it was a 1000 RMB bill, and then threw it onto the ground. He pulled the girl beside him into his embrace and walked away with his brothers, leaving that note on the ground as if he was bestowing it to beggars.
"Pei Shuai, let's go!"
Jiang Xiu felt quite astonished, Pei Shuai was one of their best friends before. He hadn't expected that he'd team up with a person like Bao Lingyun.
"Traitor," said Chu Qiancheng.
Pei Shuai stopped walking and smiled with disdain, "Don't act foolishly. If you follow Brother Yun, you would have money as well as women. Are you planning to live in this poor mountain for a lifetime, staying as a beggar?"
They strutted off like a general who had won the battle.
The place they left to was Shahe City's Boss Zhong's group.
Chu Qiancheng was enraged, "Aren't you able to make some money because you're following a boss? What are you acting so arrogant for?"
His heart filled with resentment. He thought that Jiang Xiu shouldn't have refused the Lin family as he could've become the boss of the county, getting fame as well as money. With him as the boss, they could make those scumbags lower their heads. Let alone, Lin family was one of the notable families in the nation, and their might was on another level.
It's indeed a pity.
Da Nian said, "That brat has been eyeing Little Min recently and comes over to the barbecue store frequently."
"He wants to thoroughly destroy Da Nian and me."
Chu Qiancheng's complexion turned colors.
Jiang Xiu, however, just smiled coolly. "Don't worry. After today, he's bound to revere me as a Deity."
Bang!
Battle Wolf Seven screamed after suffering a claw attack to his torso. His clothing torn and a claw scar left behind on his flesh. He spun in the sky a few times and finally fell down to the ground.
At this time, the people could clearly see 5 holes on his chest from where blood kept rushing outside.
This one claw attack had penetrated a full 3 cms into the flesh.
"I concede!"
His complexion was deathly pale, and if he didn't concede, there was no doubt they'd die.
"Hahaha. The people from Tang family are all trash. They can't even fight."
Boss Zhong said in a proud tone, "Big Lei, the Tang family can't protect you this time. Your domain, Xincheng, shall now return to me."
Big Lei's complexion turned ashen. He looked towards Tang Wenchong and Tang Tao.
He was the spokesperson for the Lei family in the crime world, and though it seemed like he was appeared quite powerful on the surface, in fact, he obeyed the Tang family. Though the property was nominally his, the genuine owner was none other than the Tang family.
All the people present there made a commotion.
Xincheng District's Entertainment City and the surrounding industries all summed up to a vast amount of money.
"Where's that Surnamed Jiang?"
Tang Tao looked over his subordinate's injury, trying to suppress the anger he felt, "He's eaten my Tang family's money and used it's authority as he wishes, yet he's still hiding in such a critical situation."
Tang Wenchong grimaced, "Uncle Tang, Grandfather told me that we should treat an expert like Mr. Jiang with the utmost respect. We shouldn't make the slightest mistake over this and also take care not to offend him."
"There's no need for you to worry. Since Mr. Jiang promised us that he'll come, he'll definitely do that. Mr. Jiang never goes back on his words. He probably hasn't found us yet."
Tang Tao grunted, "He better show his usefulness, or else he can't blame my Tang family for falling out with him."
He didn't take Tang Wenchong's words seriously.
In his point of view, an insignificant youth couldn't possibly possess abilities worth of incurring respect.
There's an adage often passed down in the underworld, it went this way - 'Even if you defeat innumerable enemies alone, just a single defeat will draw a bucket load of people desiring to step on you.'
"I challenge the Tang family…"
"I also challenge the Tang family…"
Several families challenged the Tang family one after another. Although Tang Tao's subordinates were all baptized through several battles, their opponent was after all an Inner Strength expert, so all of them were defeated in the end.
"I also challenge the Tang family…"
The overlord of Jiang City had now become everyone's target to play around.
All the prestige accumulated by the Tang family over the years was completely gone!
"Wenchong, tell me when will that bullsh*t Mr. Jiang arrive?"
"He didn't run away, right?"
The crowd cheered jubilantly, one wave of cheers after another.
"Something's wrong…"
Old Lin who stood beside Ye Yiliang, frowned.
"Old Lin, what do you mean by that?"
"This isn't the Tang family's entire strength. Even though Chu Tianan got killed, there's still the relationship with the Military. It's entirely possible to invite a Grandmaster and judging by Tang Zhenshan's nature, there's no way he would give up easily. Besides, there's not even a single Inner Strength expert in their group."
"Something is really wrong then."
After listening to Old Lin's explanation, Ye Yiliang also sensed the oddity.
Among the Lin family group who were the watching the fight, the crew-cut youth commented, "After arriving at Jiang City, there were plenty of rumors that Tang Zhenshan holds the No. 1 position in the underworld here, but it looks like it was just empty fame."
"They are utterly powerless to retaliate against their opponents."
Uncle Fu nodded, "The fighters representing the Tang family are all from the Military, and none of them have cultivated Inner Strength. As far as I know, the Tang family has a close relationship with Grandmaster Chu Tiannan. I wonder why he hasn't come? He could've sent some of the Inner Strength experts under him or else they wouldn't be in such a difficult situation."
"Something's fishy!"
Lin Mi couldn't comprehend the reason Uncle Fu said this, "Uncle Fu, why do you think so?"
Uncle Fu merely shook his head. He didn't know what was wrong, as it was an intuitive feeling.
Old Lin, as well as Uncle Fu, were enlightened all of a sudden when they thought of one possibility, "Perhaps the expert from Tang family has already arrived but hasn't acted yet."
On the arena, the match had already ended. The Tang family had nothing left to lose anymore.
Tang Tao grumbled, "Wenchong, this is all because of you. If it weren't for you persisting that you've already invited an expert who can definitely win, I would've asked my leader to represent us."
"Take a look now. Our Tang family's lost so badly. How will you explain this to Grandfather?"
Cold sweat formed on Tang Wenchong's forehead.
He clenched his teeth and walked onto the arena, "Mr. Jiang, I sincerely request you to act!"
"Please!"
After hearing Tang Wenchong plead, Old Lin and Uncle Fu were definite about their conjectures. The experts from the Tang family were all defeated, and this person still hadn't appeared. Expectation filled their gazes, disdain flashing through their eyes due to the expert's arrogance.
After hearing those words, Jiang Xiu, who was helping the village in selling things, glanced towards Tang Wenchong, who was frantically yelling on the arena.
"Mr. Jiang, I request you to please act!"
There was no response after yelling five to six times.
Tang Wenchong's heart sunk, his legs trembling as despair flooded his soul.
Did Jiang Xiu really escape like Uncle Tao said?
A minute passed yet no one responded to his yells.
Big Lei's complexion turned pale after seeing this. Jiang Xiu was his final hope. If Jiang Xiu didn't appear to overturn this situation, he'd end up no better than a stray dog. There was no way he could allow this to happen, so he dashed onto the arena and yelled together with Tang Wenchong.
"Mr. Jiang, we request you to please act!"
Several underlings followed behind him and called out together.
"Mr. Jiang, please!"
Two minutes passed by.
All of them yelled with an astonishing momentum yet that so-called Mr. Jiang still hadn't appeared.
Just as the Tang family was about to abandon all hope, laughter resounded in the entire place.
A voice slowly followed after that.
"Did you call this Deity?"
Everyone gazed towards Jiang Xiu simultaneously. It was a youth who was pushing a vendor cart selling coconut juice.
"Are you insane?" Chu Qiancheng shouted in fear.
Can't you see the situation?
You're scaring me to death.
Bao Lingyun and Pei Shuai who were standing among Boss Zhong's ranks laughed after seeing that it was Jiang Xiu.
"Did that brat think they were calling him? They were calling for Mr. Jiang, why the hell is that idiot answering?"
"He must be insane to think of doing business at such a moment."
"Hahaha… I'll die laughing, this is too funny."
Lin Mi also looked at him. It's him, the guy who refused me yesterday and then got intimidated by Uncle Fu. What cr*p are you planning to pull now? It looks like you're fearless of death. Can't you see those underworld bosses murderous glares? Did you not watch those five people from the Tang family die? Do you think this is a place for you to joke around?
She shook her head, feeling gleeful. She had thought that Jiang Xiu had a devoted and loyal personality, but it turned out that he was just a brainless idiot. Fortunately, he had refused her or else she would have lost face if she brought such an inferior person to the family.
The people nearby him all stepped aside as if they were avoiding a plague, fearing that they'd get implicated.
In the situation yesterday, Chu Qiancheng and Chen Xue dared to prevent Jiang Xiu. But today, they were too frightened to act. They could only watch in silence as Jiang Xiu released his hold on the cart and then calmly walked towards the arena.
Tang Wenchong also noticed him, his eyes turning red at that moment. He felt the urge to cry as a plethora of emotions welled up in his heart. Jiang Xiu had once again appeared right on time when he was drowning in despair. He appeared! He finally appeared!
"Mr. Jiang, please act!"
This time, he shouted loudly, almost roaring so hard that his voice went hoarse.
"MR. JIANG, PLEASE ACT!"
Big Lei's underlings did the same. They had participated in the fight in Entertainment City that day, so they naturally realized that the person before their eyes was the same Mr. Jiang who they were all waiting for.
The crowd retreated back just like a sea wave, making a path to walk.
A kind person among them even warned him, "Young man, those people are calling for Mr. Jiang, not you. Quickly return, don't throw your life away."
In everyone's impression, Mr. Jiang, who the Tang family was calling out to ought to have been a top expert who had cultivated martial arts to a higher level and was at least 40 to 50 years old. There was no way it was this youngster before them.
Jiang smiled coolly.
He took one step after another, taking smooth steps, disregarding everyone's gazes. Ye Yiliang couldn't help but stand up when he saw Jiang Xiu.
"It's that brat! Why is he going over there? Has he gone mad?"
"He couldn't be doing this for Bingbing to prove himself in front of me, right?"
"Although your courage deserves praise, you're too dumb. Is this a place you can afford to come? Can you deal with the opponent on the arena?"
Tang Wenchong couldn't contain his excitation when he saw Jiang Xiu come over. He looked at him with the same gaze a minister would look at the King. Mr. Jiang, you've finally arrived.
"Mr. Jiang, I request you to please act!
Tang Wenchong spoke these words whent Jiang Xiu had reached the arena.
Whoosh!
Everyone present on the scene was shocked.
He's really Mr. Jiang? Young Master Tang was actually calling him?
Jiang Xiu's friends were the ones who felt shocked the most. Chu Qiancheng, Da Nian, Chen Xue and Little Min had all grown up together with Jiang Xiu. They couldn't comprehend how he had become Mr. Jiang in the short three years he had gone away.
This isn't a mistake, right?
The smiles on Bao Lingyun and Pei Shuai's faces went stiff.
H-How is this possible?! How could he possibly be Mr. Jiang?!
Jiang Xiu stood there, indifferent to everyone's gazes.
The reason he had come here wasn't just to help the Tang family, but rather due to the words 'Gather, Dao Soldiers; For the Immortal Gods shall open the Gate.' The only thing that could make him act was that, a way to increase his strength.
Tang Tao grunted, his face filled with anger as he walked over towards Jiang Xiu, "So you're Mr. Jiang? Where did you go?"
"Did you not see that so many of my Tang family members died?"
His tone was quite invasive, close to an interrogation.
"Why did you appear so late?"
His intent was clear. He meant to blame the deaths of his Tang family members on Jiang Xiu.
Tang Wenchong's eyes almost popped out after hearing those words, but he couldn't react in time to prevent him.
Bang!
Lightning flashed through the sky, followed by the sound of thunder rumbling.
Tang Tao believed that Jiang Xiu would obey the orders of the Tang family because they had spent a few 100 million to buy a street for him. Jiang Xiu used his actions to tell him that he was gravely mistaken if he thought he could order Jiang Xiu around.
"Boom!"
Thunder rumbled in the sky and faint smoke scattered from his hand. In the blink of an eye, a gale swept forwards.
Tang Wenchong and Big Lei who stood in front of Jiang Xiu, were pushed back a few steps due to the force. They couldn't stand anymore and landed on the ground with their butts, even sliding back two to three meters from the wind.
Those who were farther couldn't even open their eyes due to the gale. The wind caused the windows to make a sharp, clattering noise which hurt the eardrums.
In this split second, everyone felt as if time slowed down, even seeming as if it had stopped.
And the only thing happening during this time-stop was Jiang Xiu slapping Tang Tao, causing him to fly back like a kite which had its string cut off. He soared a few meters far, collided with the entrance door, broke through it then finally tumbled down the stairs.
At this moment, it was if a heat wave put on pause had resumed. Just like an artillery shell landing on the ground, it proceeded with strong momentum, causing the paper bits on the ground to fly around due to the chaotic wind and the houses to tremble.
Shock. Stupefaction. Such were the expressions everyone wore.
The entire place went deathly silent.
This was no matter to kid about. Jiang Xiu had merely swung his arm, that's all.
Tang Wenchong was left dumbstruck. He had merely heard Tang Zhenshan say that Jiang Xiu was quite strong. On that day in Belden, he learned that Jiang Xiu could use spells from the fact that he could control lightning with his palm, but he hadn't expected that Jiang Xiu was so valiant.
As for those top experts like Old Lin and Uncle Fu, they were utterly shocked, both of them trying to figure out the level of martial arts Jiang Xiu had cultivated to. Inner Strength Stage? Supreme Stage? Or was it the Demigod stage?
They didn't dare imagine it, nor could they envision it.
Lin Mi's eyes turned round. She was too shocked. It was out of her expectations. He's actually this powerful.
As for Boss Zhong, Wen Zuolin, as well as Jiang Xiu's childhood acquaintances, they were stupefied the most, their jaws almost dropping to the ground.
Chu Qiancheng, Da Nian, Little Min and Chen Xue couldn't believe their eyes, that their friend Jiang Xiu, with whom they had grown up together with, was actually so mighty.
I-Is this the Jiang Xiu we know?
"You dare to speak rudely to this Deity?"
Only now did people realize that the target of Jiang Xiu's attack was none other than Tang family's Tang Tao and that he was the person the Tang family had invited. They understood that he didn't have a reliant relationship with the Tang family and there was even a huge possibility that they were the ones who had asked for his help, inviting him to appear as the Tang family's representative.
Tang Wenchong's face went pale as cold sweat formed on his back, "Thank you, Mr. Jiang, for teaching him a lesson."
He felt endless rage in his heart as he had repeatedly warned Tang Tao that he must act with respect towards Jiang Xiu and must not offend him. But, the result was that he didn't listen to his words, tried to blame Jiang Xiu for the Tang family's defeat and even spoke rudely to him. Tell me, isn't this you courting death?
"The Tang family shall definitely give Mr. Jiang a proper response regarding this, but he is after all my elder. This Tang Wenchong doesn't have the right to punish him. Please wait for my Grandfather to personally give the judgment."
Jiang Xiu grunted. The reason he had allowed Tang Tao to live was so that the Tang family could give a proper response to him.
His gaze fell on Bao Lingyun and Pei Shuai.
Their faces were already pale. Just now, when Jiang Xiu had stepped on the arena, they had vilified Jiang Xiu in front of Boss Zhong. They were saying that he was just a country bumpkin, how they had even bullied him during his childhood, and how they made him kneel and beg.
"This Deity challenges you!"
He pointed towards Boss Zhong. As for a reason, there was no need to say it.
"Grandmaster Zhang?!"
Boss Zhong hinted him to go fight. It was the man who used the Eagle Claw Arts.
Grandmaster Zhang's brave face was somewhat pale. The power Jiang Xiu had revealed just now wasn't something he could resist. However, it wasn't allowed to deny a challenge during the Dao Soldier Meet, so he had to go to the arena.
If a person was skilled, they might come out alive. But most of the time, it concluded with one of the people dying.
"What are you afraid of?"
He used his light movement art and soared like an eagle towards the arena, his eagle claw slashing towards Jiang Xiu decisively.
"Hah!"
Actually, Jiang Xiu didn't know martial arts. People practiced Martial Arts here, while Immortal Martial Arts practice in the Immortal Martial Continent. Martial Arts were simpler because they were lower grade skills. The reason they were a lower grade was that, even if someone cultivates martial arts to a high stage in some low-level places like Earth and then later became a Grandmaster or even a Demigod, they'd get insta-killed if they encountered a million-year-old demoness or a young cultivator from a sect possessing talismans.
Therefore, Jiang Xiu had learned Immortal Martial Skills which were executed using the energy in the body and right now, he was using the divine force to execute them.
That wave of his hand from before was this way.
BOOM!
The sounds of thunder rumbling resounded in the area again. An ice-cold glint flashed through Jiang Xiu's eyes as he casually sent his palm forward. Under everyone's shocked gaze, white smoke bubbled out and collided with Grandmaster Zhang's body, who was 2-3 meters away. His body flew back as if hit by a truck weighing several tonnes.
He kept flying past the arena and flew outside, embracing death amidst his flight, and by the time he fell to the ground, he couldn't be any more dead.
Hiss!
Everyone sucked in a cold breath as they looked at Jiang Xiu as if they were looking at a demon. They felt a chill in their backbones W-What kind of power is this?
At this very moment, Tang Wenchong finally noticed the most frightening thing about Jiang Xiu.
He was strong. Too strong.
Boss Zhong's face went ashen. Bao Lingyun and Pei Shuai's legs went weak from the fear, trembling so much that they couldn't even stand properly. At a distance, Jiang Xiu's childhood friends looked at him with their eyes open wide. Emotions welled up in their hearts. Young Master Xiu, you're too awesome!
They felt so emotional that tears welled up in their eyes, wishing they could cry. They finally understood the reason why Jiang Xiu had said that those two bastards would revere him as a Deity.
Jiang Xiu was akin to a God right now, a Deathgod who held their lives in his clutches.
After achieving a perfect kill, Jiang Xiu turned towards Ye Yiliang.
Ye Yiliang raised his brows. He was on full alert as he looked back at him with an intimidating gaze. He sneered in his mind. Brat, are you thinking of challenging me?
Jiang Xiu's strength had indeed exceeded his imagination. He believed that Jiang Xiu was at the initial stage of Inner Strength but now thought that he might've reached the Supreme stage.
"This Deity challenges you!"
Astonishingly, he pointed towards Ye Yiliang. Ye Yiliang's face turned ashen as he cursed in his mind, spitting out spitefully, "You're courting death!"
"Old Lin!"
Old Lin was the most significant support the Ye family had provided him. It was to ensure his safety so that a matter like what happened 10 years ago wouldn't repeat, where he had to request Tang Zhenshan's help to deal with an expert like Lin Zhenbei and had to finally retreat from Jiang City. When Lin Zhenbei had made a comeback, and crippled Tang Zhenshan's arm, the ambition to rule Jiang City's underworld rose in Ye Yiliang's heart.
He was planning to make Old Lin handle Lin Zhenbei and then step on his dead body. Ye Yiliang wished to stand at the apex of Jiang City. However, he hadn't expected Old Lin to have already prepared to act.
Although he'd be on the passive side after exposing his strength, he didn't wish for there to be any variables hindering the ending he had envisioned.
"Okay!"
Old Lin replied in a dull tone and slowly moved towards the arena. He hadn't imagined that the youth whom he had regarded as an ignorant brat before when they met in the wetlands would now stand in front of him as his opponent.
"You're pretty good to have achieved such cultivation at a young age."
Old Lin said in a grave tone.
"Only, it's a pity that you've challenged the wrong person."
Old Lin stamped down, causing an aura to surround his body, which seemed as if it was silk strands.
"Inner to Outer Conversion, Heavenly Silkworm Silk Tempest!"
The others couldn't remain collected anymore. Though they couldn't recognize which skills Jiang Xiu was using, they all recognized Old Lin's ability, "OH MY GOD! It's a Supreme Stage Grandmaster."
Jiang Xiu shook his head coolly, "Just a cheap trick to fool children, that's all."
"Come. This Deity shall enlighten you today, and teach you what true martial arts are."
He lifted his arms slightly, brought his palms together, and made several seals one after another using his fingers. He was executing an Immortal Martial Art.
Mind Pulse Seal, Demon Origin Seal, Heavenly Howl Blast, Thunder Cry Quake, Mythical Origin Change…
Among the seals he formed, it consisted of more than several hundred ones. Even if the opponent could block the first, the second one would follow up and if even that was blocked, he wouldn't be able to block the third one.
"Deity Xiu's Ultimate Skill!"
"Explosion Seal Surge!"
- .