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Chapter 357: Chapter 13 Convergence of Three Parties_1
"Who is that?!"
The cultivators from the Xuli Sect scattered around all looked towards the horizon.
Wang Tang couldn't help but turn his head towards the sound, and the Xu-named cultivator in mid-air also involuntarily turned his head.
They saw a bright streak of light whistling towards them from the horizon.
Just as it was about to fall into the range of the 'Locking Sky Array', the figure abruptly halted, the wind whipping through his clothes.
Upon seeing this person, the Xu-named cultivator's face changed slightly.
Wang Tang couldn't help but frown.
They recognized the identity of the other party.
"Feng Bao?"
"Why would someone from Huifeng Valley show up here at this time?"
Wang Tang and the Xu-named cultivator, one on the ground, the other in mid-air, quickly exchanged glances.
The operation to discretely recruit the skillful Rogue Cultivators was hermetic, it mustn't be known to individuals from the other two sects.
The appearance of Feng Bao ignited a murderous intention in both of them. Yet, they felt somewhat uncertain as they couldn't gauge how much he knew and whether he had hidden tricks, making them hesitant to act.
However, at this moment, the two suddenly saw more than twenty flashing lights rapidly approach from the horizon, lining up behind Feng Bao.
All these people were adorned in garments branded with the symbol of auspicious clouds, their faces cold as ice, unblinkingly staring at the people from the Xuli Sect. They were all cultivators from Huifeng Valley.
The faces of Wang Tang and the Xu-named cultivator turned extremely unsightly.
Countless thoughts whirled in their minds.
The two quickly communicated through sound transmission:
"Damn it! Why did they appear at this time?"
"We purposely sealed off the surroundings, nobody should know about this! Could it be that someone leaked information from within the sect?"
"Or did he just happen to stumble upon this?"
"And moreover, where did Master Shen Fu come from?"
The two quickly exchanged a glance from a distance.
The Xu-named cultivator withheld a flash of light in his eyes before quickly putting on a smile and making the first move.
Meanwhile, Wang Tang made a decisive move. He immediately turned around, and in the fraction of a second, he activated his mana, turning it into a giant palm, and grabbed at Wang Ba.
"Wang! You!"
Wang Ba, who hadn't been on guard, immediately wore an 'astonished' look on his face.
It seemed he hadn't anticipated Wang Tang to take action against him at all.
In the dark, the energy in his Dantian had been ready to burst forth. The moment Wang Tang's huge mana hand reached him, Wang Ba swiftly retaliated!
Although he eagerly wanted to set up this scenario, he certainly wasn't going to sit and wait for his death.
Meanwhile, in mid-air,
"Feng-my friend…"
The Xu-named cultivator was about to speak with a smile on his face,
but Feng Bao didn't spare him a glance, instead coldly staring at Wang Tang.
Seeing Wang Tang take action, Feng Bao's face underwent an abrupt change. He bellowed in anger, and hurled the Wind Breaking Pearls at Wang Tang's back.
Feng Bao's move was utterly unexpected.
No one anticipated that Feng Bao, despite lacking an advantage, would actually dare to attack Wang Tang, whose cultivation base was superior to his own!
Even the Xu-named cultivator was taken aback on the spot.
Only Wang Tang, who was directly involved in this matter, felt a strong sense of danger rising in his heart in an instant.
His Spiritual Sense frantically swept out, seeing those nine pearls, he had no doubt that he would be ground into dust once he was hit by these magic tools.
Such was a Qi Refining Dao cultivator, compared to the power of the Spell, their physical bodies were extremely fragile. If they don't have any protection, or if the protection is mediocre, it can be fatal with just one hit!
He clenched his teeth without hesitation!
The giant mana hand that was originally aimed at Wang Ba was abruptly reversed by him in a hurry, and he threw it back.
The giant mana hand instantly collided with the nine Wind Breaking Pearls!
Even though Wang Tang's actual cultivation base was much stronger than Feng Bao's,
He was hastily reacting to the situation after all.
The Wind Breaking Pearls easily shattered Wang Tang's giant mana hand.
After the nine Wind Breaking Pearls shattered the giant mana hand of Wang Tang, they continued towards Wang Tang's body at an unrelenting pace.
At this time, the Xu-named cultivator finally reacted.
His face gloomy, he growled:
"Impudent!"
As he spoke, he directly drew his Class III magic sword. A burst of dazzling light suddenly erupted from the sword, shooting towards Feng Bao!
But the disciples of Huifeng Valley, who were behind Feng Bao, seemed to have foreseen this.
Just as Feng Bao was exhausting his strength with his attack, the disciples of Huifeng Valley, behind him, instantly formed an Array, blocking Feng Bao, and confronted the sword-light head-on!
The sword-light condensed by the Class III magic sword immediately hit the formation formed by the disciples of Huifeng Valley.
The sword-light was howling, like the roar of thunder!
But the moment the Array scattered, the Xu-named cultivator lifted his finger slightly.
The sword-light shifted accordingly.
It sent three separate sword-lights flying into the distance.
This group of Huifeng Valley disciples, whose highest cultivation base was no more than middle-stage Foundation Establishment, barely defended against this attack as their Array scattered.
But they showed no intention of retreating, instead, they formed an Array again and charged towards the Xu-named cultivator.
Seeing this, the Xu-named cultivator's face turned utterly gloomy.
"Ignorants!"
If it weren't for the current cooperative relationship between the two sects, those Huifeng Valley disciples would have been wiped out by his sword just now.
It's unfortunate that if the disciples from the Xuli Sect did this, they could argue their way out, but he, with his status and position, couldn't do so at all.
Once lives were lost, the superficial harmony between the two sects would probably collapse.
The situation was critical. No matter what, he had to endure it!
But not killing was his bottom line. Seeing these Huifeng Valley cultivators so arrogant, he couldn't help raising his hand, commanding his Class III magic sword to strike again.
However, at this moment, a figure quietly flew forward and raised his hand to block his move.
"Junior Brother Xu, hold on!"
The Xu-named cultivator couldn't help but look back, only to find out it was Wang Tang who had spoken.
Chapter 358: Chapter 13 Convergence of Three Parties_2
His figure was somewhat clumsy, with his clothes even torn to some extent.
Clearly, extricating himself from Feng Bao's nine Wind Breaking Pearls was not an easy task.
"Senior Brother Wang…"
The cultivator surnamed Xu couldn't help but appear surprised.
Wang Tang glanced at him, subtly shaking his head with a barely noticeable gesture, and communicated through a voice transmission:
"No further confrontation! Our primary purpose for this trip is to capture the cultivators of the Hundred Arts class!"
Hearing these words, the cultivator surnamed Xu reluctantly withdrew his Class III magic sword, despite the bitterness in his heart.
Wang Tang then turned his gaze towards Feng Bao, who was outside the 'Sealing Array'.
Suppressing the anger that surged in his heart, Wang Tang said in an emotionless and stern voice:
"Feng Bao, our Xuli Sect has been allied with your Huifeng Valley for over a hundred years. I have maintained longstanding friendships with Master Zhou Ying and Master Li Hu from your valley. Yet, you attacked me. What is your intention?"
However, Feng Bao responded with a cold smile:
"Why bother with these platitudes when there's no one else around?"
"Besides, shouldn't you already understand my intent?"
"I've said it before. Hand over Master Shen Fu. If you cannot, then none of the people here shall leave either!"
Upon hearing Feng Bao's words, both Wang Tang and the cultivator surnamed Xu inevitably furrowed their brows.
The cultivator surnamed Xu couldn't help but blurt out:
"Feng Bao, are you out of your mind? Where did you get this Master Shen Fu from?"
Wang Tang didn't respond.
Narrowing his eyes, he observed Feng Bao with increased scrutiny.
His attention had shifted away from Wang Ba below him.
Had it not been for Wang Ba's association with this Master Shen Fu, he wouldn't have wasted his breath on a mere early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator.
Seeing Wang Ba's response earlier also made him realize that this person most likely lacked any significant abilities in combat, and therefore could be easily subdued by him.
Thus, at this moment, he was not concerned with Wang Ba. Instead, his attention was focused on Feng Bao.
Hearing the words of the cultivator surnamed Xu, Feng Bao coldly chuckled:
"If Master Shen Fu is not here, then what are you here for?"
"This…"
The cultivator surnamed Xu seemed at a loss for words for a moment.
He immediately tried to cover up his uneasiness: "Um… These rogue cultivators… they all have issues. We are just taking them back for further investigation to prevent any Incense-burning Dao Cultivators from the Kingdom of Immortals from infiltrating us."
"Kingdom of Immortals? Incense Fire Dao?"
Upon hearing these words, Feng Bao instantly revealed a scornful smile.
"Such an excuse only works on the gullible rogue cultivators."
Everyone has used similar excuses to mess with rogue cultivators in the past.
He went straight to the point:
"I don't care about your attempt to apprehend these rogue cultivators. But you must leave behind Master Shen Fu."
"I've told you, there is no Master Shen Fu here! Feng Bao, in respect for the Golden Core experts from your Huifeng Valley, I have been polite. But that doesn't mean I will tolerate your nonsensical interruptions."
"If you persist in obstructing us, even after I kill you, the Golden Cores from your valley won't have anything to say!" The cultivator surnamed Xu retorted coldly.
"Haha!"
Feng Bao was not intimidated at all and scoffed:
"You're accusing me of being irrational? Why don't you release these rogue cultivators and let me question each of them? We can then see if Master Shen Fu is among them!"
"Enough!"
Wang Tang, who had been silent until now, finally snapped with a cold voice.
He flew right in front of Feng Bao.
Separated by the Sealing Array.
Although his cultivation base seemed slightly inferior to the cultivator surnamed Xu's.
He was unsurpassed in terms of his imposing manner.
He coldly gazed at Feng Bao, then took a deep breath, struggling to suppress the anger within him:
"Friend Feng, what exactly is it that you want to do? Why not clarify your intentions openly!"
Regardless, Feng Bao remained indifferent and coldly laughed:
"What am I trying to do? I've already mentioned this before, I just want you to let Master Shen Fu go."
At this moment, even Wang Tang couldn't maintain the calm on his face, and couldn't help but retort in rage:
"Master Shen Fu! Master Shen Fu! Feng Bao, are you really treating me like a three-year-old child? You said that Master Shen Fu is among these rogue cultivators. So now I am asking you, who here is Master Shen Fu? If you can identify him, I will hand him over to you!"
"Uh…"
His question hit Feng Bao right in his blind spot.
Feng Bao had rushed over as soon as he received the message and didn't actually know who exactly was this Master Shen Fu.
Meanwhile, Wang Ba, who had been deliberately keeping a low profile, couldn't help but rejoice upon hearing this.
Finally, the right opportunity had arrived!
With the intent to seize the moment and confess, he was about to speak up,
However, immediately Wang Tang guffawed and casually pointed to one of the cultivators, and scoffed:
"Master Shen Fu? Is the Master Shen Fu you speak of him?"
Then he pointed to Wang Ba: "Or him?"
Upon hearing this, a perplexed expression surfaced on Wang Ba's face.
Initially, he had wanted to admit to being Shen Fu and seize the opportunity. But now if he confessed… would anyone believe him at all?
Not to mention, such a confession wouldn't create the desired effect. Instead, he would come across as being looked down upon for no reason.
This wasn't the time to keep a low profile. The grander the spectacle, the better. The stage had to have a certain level of gravity.
Considering this, Wang Ba decided to keep silent.
Unaware of Wang Ba's thoughts, Wang Tang continued pointing at Bu Chan and several other cultivators in the distance.
"Is it her? Or him? Friend Feng, you claim that Master Shen Fu is among us. Could you please do us the honor of pointing him out? Is he a man or a woman? Is he old or young? Our Xuli Sect shares a bond of deep friendship with your Huifeng Valley and we wouldn't want to sour our relationship over something so unfounded."
Upon hearing Wang Tang's words, Feng Bao showed a hint of hesitation. He also faintly felt that something was amiss. However, this fleeting doubt quickly faded away, accompanied by an imperceptibly flush of crimson.
Instead, a domineering look took its place:
Chapter 359: Chapter 13 Convergence of Three Parties_3
"I don't care, Brother Wang Tang, if you don't release Master Shen Fu today, you, a Rogue Cultivator, should not think of leaving!"
Upon hearing Feng Bao's almost ruffian-like words, Wang Tang and the cultivator surnamed Xu finally couldn't tolerate any more!
Their faces instantly darkened.
Their auras also suddenly became heavy.
The Cultivators of Huifeng Valley, sensing the tense atmosphere, moved closer in sync. Subtly, inherited mana linked them into a whole body.
The disciples of the Xuli Sect, too, gathered at once.
Compared to the majority of Huifeng Valley disciples who were at the Qi Refining stage.
Among the disciples of the Xuli Sect, many were at the early-stage of Foundation Establishment.
The cultivators of both sides subtly confronted each other, and the atmosphere was rapidly solidifying.
However, it's clear that the intensity of the Huifeng Valley disciples was much weaker than that of the Xuli Sect disciples.
Just when the tension between the two parties was about to explode into a huge battle.
From the southwest direction, a grand voice leisurely sounded:
"Hehe, what's going on? What matters have caused Brother Wang Tang and Brother Feng Bao to get this angry?"
"Why not consider the Danlong School's face and put down your grievances?"
Danlong School?!
At this moment, not only did the faces of Wang Tang, the cultivator surnamed Xu, and Feng Bao change, but even Wang Ba couldn't help feeling a bit surprised in his heart.
Of the two Sound Transmission Talismans he sent out, one was given to the cultivator surnamed Feng. As for the other one, it was given to Wen Yong out of precaution.
What he didn't expect, however, was that Wen Yong didn't show up, but someone from the Danlong School did.
And within the blink of an eye.
Six figures appeared from the southwest direction, walking on air.
Though few in number, each shone brilliantly with firm auras, with each of them no less than Feng Bao of Huifeng Valley.
The man leading the group had a determined face, and his demeanor was no less than that of Wang Tang. His aura was at its peak, and he was a Perfect Foundation Establishment cultivator at just a step away from forming a Golden Core!
The figure next to him gave Wang Ba quite a shock: the man, with his arms crossed over his knees, had a gentle face. He's none other than the very familiar Shanli, the master of the Changyi Society, Wen Yong!
"Zhang Yunlong… Wen Yong…"
Wang Tang's face darkened as he looked around the group.
Even with his deep thoughts and ability to hide his emotions, the unexpected arrivals one after another left him feeling a tad overwhelmed.
Not to mention the people from Huifeng Valley, he never thought Feng Bao could be such a scoundrel.
The group from the Danlong School who had just arrived was nearly the top batch of Foundation Establishment cultivators in their sect, none of them easy to deal with.
Even that Wen Yong, Wang Tang somewhat fears the existence behind him and dares not be negligent at all.
But looking at this group, although Wang Tang felt solemn, he also felt a sense of bafflement, even a touch of grievance.
They only caught Master Mi, who's good at making Thunder Seeds. Was all this necessary?!
If it came down to it, he could even give up Master Mi if need be.
Feng Bao also looked at the suddenly arrived Danlong School cultivators with apprehension.
Three Sects gathered, and their Huifeng Valley turned out to be the weakest force.
He smiled, though somewhat reluctantly:
"So it's Brother Zhang. I heard your sect has had quite a good harvest in the Wei State. You're not cultivating within the sect. What brings you here?"
Hearing Feng Bao's words, Wang Tang's ears pricked up. This was what he wanted to ask as well.
Upon hearing this, Zhang Yunlong responded with a nonchalant smile:
"Nothing in particular. Brother Wen just happens to have a good friend here. We just came to visit."
"We didn't expect to run into all of you."
"Wen Yong?"
Wang Tang, the cultivator surnamed Xu, and Feng Bao, their gazes all simultaneously fell on Wen Yong.
As for visiting a friend… That was a little too far-fetched. What kind of friend could cause so many Danlong School cultivators to come out together?
Only in Wang Tang's heart, there was a feeling of unease, as if he had neglected something.
However, with all these Sect cultivators focusing on him, Wen Yong seemed calm and composed. With a slight smile and a respectful look, he looked at a figure below and softly said:
"Brother Shen Fu, are you okay?"
Following Wen Yong's gaze, when they saw the figure, everyone couldn't help but freeze.
And Wang Tang had his eyes wide open in disbelief.
"How can this be?!"
"Why is it him?"
Chapter 360: Chapter 14 Frequent Accidents_1
"Shen Fu, Master Shen Fu is actually him?!"
The cultivators followed Wen Yong's gaze towards a middle-aged cultivator in front of a house below, whose appearance and attire were no different from those of ordinary Rogue Cultivators. A look of astonishment flashed in everyone's eyes.
Although this man was somewhat handsome, those aspects didn't rank high in the eyes of a cultivator. Instead, it was the temperament and attitude that mattered most.
However, Master Shen Fu seemed too ordinary and mundane, far from the gravitas one would expect from a person of his repute.
He didn't look at all like the famed Master Shen Fu.
Even Feng Bao — who had been throwing around a rough and unscrupulous attitude — was taken aback.
Under the influence of the Power of the Yin God, he had been focused on finding Master Shen Fu, but he wasn't aware of what Shen Fu actually looked like.
So upon seeing him now, he couldn't help but feel a sense of letdown.
But he also knew that unlike cultivators who are proficient in fighting with spells, those good at battles usually have a sharp touch to their temperament due to their frequent spell practice and fights. This essence is hard to hide, and anyone on this path could sense it.
Such temperament can make even an ordinarily looking cultivator who is skilled at battling appear to have a remarkable demeanor.
Hundred Arts cultivators, on the other hand, spend their days concentrating on cultivating and honing their techniques. Compared to the former, they seemed relaxed and harmless, lacking that sharp edge. Even if they look decent, they appear no more than wealthy merchants in the mundane world.
Of course, to put it strangely, it's like the difference between a wolf and a sheep.
Clearly, Master Shen Fu is one such harmless cultivator who is passionately devoted to the Hundred Arts and neglects the practice of spells and battling.
Compared to Huifeng Valley, the expressions on the faces of the disciples from Xuli Sect were far more interesting.
Disbelief, regret, and other emotions were swirling around the faces of every Xuli Sect cultivator.
They arrived here first, even found a hidden Master Mi here, and got news about some other cultivators who were proficient in the Hundred Arts.
To their surprise, they picked up sesame seeds but lost a watermelon.
The most famous Rogue Cultivator was within their grasp, and they didn't even realize it.
Without Wen Yong pointing it out, they might still think he was just someone related to Zhao Wei from Changyi Society.
"If I had known he was Shen Fu, I would have…"
A rare hint of regret rose in the eyes of the cultivator surnamed Xu.
Even the handful of scattered cultivators were shocked as they looked at Wang Ba.
Among them was a cultivator clad in blue robes with the surname Mu, who had recently had a brief conversation with Wang Ba at the teahouse in Insect Market.
He was now injured, but the shock he felt in his heart was far greater than his physical pain.
"It's actually him!"
"He is Shen Fu?!"
"No wonder, no wonder…"
No wonder he could use the chicken essence even though he didn't leave home and rarely traded with others.
Thinking about how he has been somewhat condescending before, making fun of him and saying that he was not qualified to give Changyi Society quotas to others, he feels a deep sense of embarrassment.
In his eyes, Master Shen Fu, although ordinary in appearance, exuded a charm of returning to simplicity and profound mystique.
…
"Many thanks for Brother Wen's concern."
At the gathering of Rogue Cultivators.
Wang Ba stood composed in the midst of everyone's gazes. Faced with Wen Yong's inquiry, his response was quite bland.
He could feel the confusion, astonishment, shock, and disbelief in the eyes of those looking at him.
Especially Wang Tang, who had just attacked him not long ago, looked at him with a sense of incredulity and deep regret.
While a sense of satisfaction unavoidably rose in him.
In his heart, he couldn't help but commend Wen Yong.
Wen Yong's simple gesture and words instantly elevated his reputation to an unprecedented level and had an incomparable effect.
Under the joint witness of the three sects, the identity of 'Shen Fu' was revealed, directly eliminating any possibility of private haggling among the three sects.
The Shen Fu symbolized an endless source of chicken essence, a vital resource that could help low-class cultivators break through, and an important fulcrum capable of leveraging the influence of Rogue Cultivators.
At this sensitive time of impending chaos in Yan State, none of the three sects could resist such a temptation, which was the main reason why Wang Ba dared to play along with the plan.
Even though it seemed dangerous, there was actually little risk.
If successful, it would even remove him from the turbulent situation in Yan State, at least for the foreseeable future, and allow him to stay unscathed.
For such an opportunity, Wang Ba was naturally willing to try.
Of course, it was also because of Wen Yong's reminder and the sudden arrival of the Xuli Sect that gave him this idea.
Rather than passively wait, he decided to step in actively.
If Feng Bao's arrival and actions were part of his intricate plan, then the arrival of the Danlong School was an unexpected pleasure.
He originally thought that Wen Yong would bring a group of Rogue Cultivators, but never expected him to bring along the last of the three sects – Danlong School.
"Wen Yong appears to be not so simple…"
As his gaze swept over the disciples of the Danlong School behind Wen Yong, Wang Ba thought silently in his heart.
On the other hand, if Wen Yong could keep the Changyi Society for so long, and everyone knowing his relationship with 'Shen Fu' but no one dared to find 'Shen Fu' through him, that alone spoke volumes.
Chapter 361: Chapter 14: Unexpected Events Continue_2
Zhang Yunlong from the Danlong School looked up and down at Wang Ba, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes, as if he hadn't expected Master Shen Fu, legendary as he was, to appear so ordinary.
However, he seemed to trust Wen Yong quite a bit, so he willingly entered the Sealing Array and gracefully descended, courteously saying:
"I have long heard of Master Shen Fu, and today I finally have the honor of meeting you. I am truly fortunate."
"You're too kind, Zhang," Wang Ba replied with a soft smile.
Wen Yong and the other cultivators from the Danlong School also descended following Zhang Yunlong.
Seeing this, the people from the Huifeng Valley and the Xuli Sect hesitated before eventually descending as well.
With an uncertain expression on his face, the cultivator named Xu eventually waved his hand at Wang Tang's hint, and the Xuli Sect cultivators who were guarding all sides instantly retreated and dissolved their formation.
With the gathering of the big three Sects, maintaining the Sealing Array was meaningless.
Wang Tang withdrew his gaze and looked at Wang Ba again.
Waves of emotions stirred within him.
Years of experience had given him unwavering confidence in his own insights.
He indeed had noticed that 'Zhao,' the man before him, was peculiar.
After probing, he was even more convinced that this man must have a significant connection with Zhao Wei from the Shanli's Changyi Society, and even dared to speculate that this man might in fact be Zhao Wei.
But what Wang Tang hadn't expected was that he, despite thinking that he had been daring enough, had still been somewhat conservative.
This 'Zhao' was none other than Master Shen Fu himself!
This had truly exceeded his expectations; he hadn't thought that Master Shen Fu had appeared in front of everyone so early, nonchalantly hosting the Changyi Society gatherings several times, and even presiding over the Sacred Auction a few times.
Thinking about this, Wang Tang couldn't help but admit, albeit reluctantly, that he had been blind. Master Shen Fu had indeed caught him out, using the strategy of disguise in plain sight.
"Most likely, it's Wen Yong's doing!" muttered Wang Tang, casting a glance at Wen Yong who had moved next to Master Shen Fu. A shadow crossed his eyes and he quickly pushed down the emotions brewing inside him.
He had lost his best opportunity to win over Master Shen Fu, and even his recent moves had resulted in conflict and mistrust between the two sides.
Regret was useless now; he had to find a solution immediately to regain some initiative.
Even if the Xuli Sect failed to win him over, they must at least ensure his neutrality. He must not be won over by the other two powers.
At this thought, a murderous intent began to surge in his heart.
If he were to kill Master Shen Fu at this moment, wouldn't that prevent the other two powers from gaining him as well?
With his and Junior Brother Xu's strength, killing an early-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator would only take an instant.
As for the moment to act, opportunities were abundant at present.
After all, no one would believe that the people of the Xuli Sect would dare to act under so many people's scrutiny; no one was on their guard.
Since they had already offended him, why not be a bit more ruthless.
This would prevent Shen Fu from becoming a liability to the Xuli Sect instead of becoming an asset.
After swiftly weighing his options, he immediately sent a message to Junior Brother Xu, revealing his entire plan.
Upon hearing this, Junior Brother Xu was taken aback. However, he trusted Wang Tang implicitly and quickly replied, saying:
"Rest assured, brother. Working together, we can certainly kill this Shen Fu!"
"Hmm, your Class III magic sword needs to gather strength, so hide it well," Wang Tang instructed solemnly. "After we succeed, retreat at once. Inform Zhu Xian, Xie Xia, and Wu Wenrui… right now in preparation for escape!"
Junior Brother Xu hesitated, but eventually asked, "What about the other disciples? Once we kill Master Shen Fu, we can escape, but the disciples may bear the brunt of a retaliatory attack from the Danlong School and the Huifeng Valley people if they become furious…"
"They won't die! As long as Zhang Yunlong hasn't lost his mind, there shouldn't be any issues. Even if there are, it would be a necessary sacrifice for the sect's rise!" Wang Tang's eyes flashed with a hint of ruthlessness.
"If necessary, even my own sacrifice would be acceptable."
Upon hearing Wang Tang's words, Junior Brother Xu couldn't help but fall silent.
Although he was more advanced in cultivation than Wang Tang, he had always deeply admired him.
However, on this point, he didn't fully agree.
Shouldn't the ultimate goal of a cultivator be the pursuit of immortality?
Isn't a sect just a place to cultivate and dwell? Sacrificing some time, energy, or even emotions is acceptable, but is the sect more important than one's own life?
He could not bring himself to agree.
Of course, such a sacrifice had nothing to do with him. After a brief silence, he quietly replied, "Yes."
After saying this, he promptly got in touch with the individuals Wang Tang had mentioned.
These individuals, either high in cultivation or rich in talent, were all valuable assets to the sect in Wang Tang's view.
If the mediocres died, they died. But these people could not suffer any casualties.
So even though Wang Tang knew nothing was likely to happen at the moment, he still shared some information with them.
Quietly, all the Xuli Sect cultivators who had been notified began to subtly withdraw.
The cultivators around them remained oblivious, their eyes all focused on Master Shen Fu and Zhang Yunlong, who were engaged in animated conversation.
In the conversation, Zhang Yunlong occasionally broke into hearty laughter, Master Shen Fu often nodded in agreement with a smile, and Feng Bao would interject a word or two whenever he could, creating a warm and harmonious atmosphere.
In contrast, the Xuli Sect, who were supposed to be the main characters of this rounding up mission, seemed to fade into the background, unnoticed and forgotten.
Chapter 362: Chapter 14 Frequent Accidents_3
Wang Tang sneers slightly at this sight.
"Haha, you guys really think you've bagged this Shen Fu?"
A glint of coldness can't help but flash in his eyes.
Everyone isn't a fool. The possibility of one sect monopolizing Master Shen Fu vanished the moment another sect appeared.
The only option is to change their strategy and try to foster a good relationship with him and secure his support in the matter of the Spirit Chicken Essence.
"But…Xuli Sect surely won't submit to anyone!"
There's a slight chill in Wang Tang's gaze.
Mana is slowly extracted from his Dantian. It's so subtle that it weaves through the aura of numerous cultivators, unnoticeable to all.
Just like a venomous snake, concealing its toxic fangs, and subtly moving in for the strike.
Cold, slippery…
It's inching closer step by step.
Unbeknownst to 'Master Shen Fu' in the crowd, all this was happening around him.
He's still chatting and laughing merrily with cultivators from the two sects.
'Click
Wang Tang came to a halt.
From his position, he was just over a hundred steps away from 'Master Shen Fu'.
This small distance can be covered in the blink of an eye.
Next, all he needs to do is synchronize with Junior Brother Xu's Class III magic sword, and they can successfully assassinate this 'Master Shen Fu', who had just recently revealed his identity.
His spiritual sense sweeps subtly over the area.
From afar, Junior Brother Xu blinked slightly.
"Fight!"
Hearing the signal, Wang Tang conveyed without hesitation.
The mana in his body surged up instantaneously, but right at the moment when it was about to be infused into the Magic Tool, it came to a halt!
In the distance.
An overpowering aura of mana rushed over like a roaring river!
Detecting this mana aura, Wang Tang couldn't help but change his expression:
"A Golden Core cultivator from Huifeng Valley!"
He promptly suppressed the mana within his body and swiftly sent a telepathic message to Brother Xu.
In just an instant, a towering figure appeared overhead like a ghost.
Wang Tang didn't even get to see the man's face before he disappeared from his original spot and reappeared opposite to 'Master Shen Fu'.
The newcomer had silver hair reaching his shoulders, his face was ordinary but filled with indifference.
The only time he revealed a slight smile was when he saw 'Shen Fu'.
He then cut to the chase and asked:
"You are Shen Fu? I've heard much about you."
"How about coming to my Huifeng Valley?"
'Shen Fu' was seemingly taken aback, seemingly caught off guard.
On hearing these words, Wang Tang's heart seized up, quickly sending a message to Brother Xu while simultaneously stepping forward to land beside 'Shen Fu' and bowing respectfully:
"The sixth personal disciple of Xuli Sect, Wang Tang, pays his respect to Master Yan."
Master Yan took a quick glance at Wang Tang, his expression coldening.
Despite him being a person of the Xuli sect, Master Yan couldn't completely disregard him.
He spoke indifferently:
"What's the matter?"
With a respectful expression, Wang Tang replied, "Our sect and Danlong School have already agreed with Master Shen to become a guest minister of our sect. Master Shen has also agreed. Isn't that right, Zhang?"
Zhang Yunlong was taken aback, then after giving Wang Tang a deep look, he raised his hand in salute, and respectfully said, "What Brother Wang said is true."
Master Yan, hearing their words, squinted his eyes and scanned over the two of them.
Both of them were being respectful to him.
He suddenly asked:
"Is this your idea, or was it Sect Master Lin and Master Chu's?"
This time Zhang Yunlong took the initiative to answer:
"In response to Master Yan, we are of the younger generation and would not dare to act on our own accord."
The atmosphere instantly thickened.
The surrounding cultivators couldn't help but hold their breath in tension.
Master Yan looked at the two of them again and suddenly broke into a smile.
"Well done! Indeed, rising talents of this generation!"
"Haha, since this is so, Shen would naturally be a guest of my Huifeng Valley too. Shen, what do you think?"
On hearing this, Wang Ba's expression turned serious: "I shall comply."
The three sects quickly come to a consensus, taking control of the situation, without considering his feelings.
If he refuses, not only would he be disdained, but he would also become a laughingstock.
This was somewhat different from his original plan.
Although he was still safe, the initiative was completely out of his hands.
Master Yan, seeing this, nodded with satisfaction.
"That's good."
At this moment, Wen Yong couldn't help himself and stood up, bowing in salute: "Junior Wen Yong pays his respect to Master Yan."
Only then did Master Yan seem to notice Wen Yong, his expression showing unexpected surprise and a smile: "Ah, it's Nephew Wen, haha, I've missed Brother Wen's worldly travels. Are you back now?"
Wen Yong, seizing the opportunity answered with a smile,"In response to Uncle Yan, father heard about Shen's extraordinary talents and is planning to return soon to take Shen as a disciple. He should be back soon, and once he is, I will surely relay your longing for him."
Upon hearing this, everyone present simultaneously revealed different expressions.
Zhang Yunlong seemed unsurprised.
But Wang Tang couldn't help but be taken aback, he subconsciously glanced at 'Shen Fu' and noticed his calm face, seemingly unsurprised.
Master Yan squinted his eyes once again.
His gaze was fixed on Wen Yong.
"Brother Wen is… taking Shen as his disciple? As far as I know, he never accepted any disciples before."
Wen Yong continued with his smile, "Perhaps it's because Shen's talents were too exceptional, father was very pleased when he met Shen."
Master Yan considered this thoughtfully before shaking his head:
"Let's wait for Brother Wen to return and then discuss this."
Wen Yong was taken aback.
Without skipping a beat, Master Yan laughed and said to Wang Ba:
"Young Shen is now a guest minister of the Three Sects, and he will most likely find his footing in these sects in the future. It would be the best to start from my Huifeng Valley this time."
Upon hearing this, Zhang Yunlong and Wang Tang's expressions changed:
" That's not acceptable!"
Finally, they understood why Master Yan was so easygoing, he aimed to pull strings here.
Although it was said it would be on a rotation basis, once Shen Fu was really taken back to Huifeng Valley, it would be uncertain how long he would have to stay there.
Three to five years, or even decades, are all up to Huifeng Valley's discretion.
"Hmm?"
Master Yan no longer held back, his cold gaze swept over two people with an imposing air:
"What? Any problems?"
Under the pressure of a Golden Core cultivator, the two remained silent.
Seeing this, Master Yan nodded with satisfaction and was about to return directly to Huifeng Valley with Wang Ba.
But suddenly, his face tightened, and he abruptly looked towards the southeast.
"Uncle, what is it?"
Feng Bao came over curiously.
"Be careful!"
For the first time, a solemn look appeared on Master Yan's face.
Feng Bao was taken aback.
And soon, he understood why Master Yan said to be careful.
In the sky, the sound of 'clack, clack' of horses' hooves gradually emerged, soon the sound became clearer and closer, as if stepping on everyone's heart…
Chapter 363: Chapter 15 Rolling_1
Accompanied by the sound of horse hooves echoing.
A hint of splendid rosy clouds unfolded at the horizon.
Soon, under everyone's suspicious gazes.
The rosy clouds enveloped the sky.
A horse-drawn carriage trod in the air out of nowhere.
Feng Bao, with his impressive ability to judge, noticed at first glance the four horses in front of the carriage. Each one was peculiar in shape, with a high, protruding forehead, eyes like copper bells, jaws resembling a pig dragon, and two long whiskers fluttering in the wind.
The coachman on the carriage was struggling to control these four horses.
"Huh—"
"Is it a Dragonhorse?!"
Feng Bao couldn't help but exclaim in a low voice.
"No, there are no horns on their heads. It should be a Mixed Chi Horse."
"Judging by its aura, it must be a Class III, middle grade…"
Master Yan, however, talked sternly, as he shifted his gaze from the seemingly unskilled coachman and stared intently at the white curtain of the carriage.
It was as if he was trying to see through the curtain and make out the figure of the stranger inside the carriage.
People from the Xuli Sect, like Wang Tang and cultivator Xu, were on alert.
Zhang Yunlong from the Danlong School also showed seriousness.
An unfamiliar presence, suspected to be a Golden Core master, suddenly appeared out of nowhere. It was not something anyone could afford to underestimate.
However, Wang Ba and Wen Yong, among the crowd, were stunned at the sight of the coachman. They couldn't believe their own eyes.
"Fellow Cultivator Li Ji?"
This coachman is indeed that Li, who forged a Class II Spirit Cook's Magic Tool for Wang Ba, a Class II Tool Refiner.
Not long ago, he had a pleasant conversation with Wang Ba and even generously imparted some tips regarding Artifact Refining. After escorting Wang Ba to Baiyun Prairie, he left alone. Before parting, they exchanged their addresses and Sound Transmission Talismans, agreeing that they would visit each other soon.
Wang Ba initially thought it was just a casual remark, but he didn't expect Li to actually come!
And such a coincidence!
However, Li Ji, a Class II Tool Refiner and a late-stage Foundation Establishment Competitor, who was no less than Wen Yong in Cultivation Base, had the audacity to allow him to be a mere coachman?
Without further ado, a possibility instantly struck Wang Ba's mind!
Golden Core!
It must be at least a Golden Core master to enjoy such grandeur!
Furthermore, the aura of those four Spiritual Horses were very much stronger than that of the Wu Monkey King and Jia 15, signifying that they were Class III Spirit Beasts.
The realm and Cultivation Base of the person in the carriage, have thus become self-evident.
At this moment, however, Master Yan from Huifeng Valley was lost in thought.
Using Mixed Chi Horses as vehicles, even the Immortal Master of Nascent Soul, Zhang Daobai of Yan State, had never had such a configuration.
It was not that Zhang Daobai couldn't afford it, but Class III war creatures were extremely rare in Yan State, precious to everyone to the extent that they wouldn't resort to such a strategy.
Furthermore, most Class III Spirit Beasts had started to develop Spiritual Wisdom and being treated in this way could easily breed resentment. Therefore, normally Yan Dynasty Sects, if they could get a Class III Spirit Beast, would typically treat them no differently than how they would treat an ordinary Golden Core master.
After all, compared to Spirit Beasts, the Lifespan of Golden Core masters was significantly shorter.
From the perspective of a minor Sect, a Class III Spirit Beast with loyalty is even more precious than a slightly weaker Golden Core master.
"But… I feel as if I've heard that somewhere…"
Master Yan felt puzzled.
Li Ji finally stopped the carriage and hovered it just above the site where the Rogue Cultivators had gathered.
Master Yan's face immediately darkened.
This act was undoubtedly looking down upon him—the Golden Core master.
However, he was indeed somewhat wary of the other party.
Not to mention the person inside the carriage, even the four Mixed Chi Horses, although not primarily for combat, would be quite troublesome for him to deal with.
Perceiving the subtle gazes of the surrounding cultivators, Master Yan couldn't help but frown. After a moment of contemplation, he raised his hand to greet the stranger, saying loudly:
"Master Yan Qing of Huifeng Valley, pays his respects to the fellow daoist."
However, there was deafening silence inside the carriage. Even after a few moments, there was no response.
Master Yan's face instantly grew somber.
The gaze he cast toward the carriage was filled with a touch of anger and sternness.
Li Ji on the carriage was immediately embarrassed and hastily knocked on the pole lightly and whispered something into it.
Soon, a flustered Li Ji gave a long-distance salute to Master Yan and said:
"My apologies, Master. My master does not wish to meet anyone. Could you please make way for us to locate someone?"
Although Master Yan was wary of the people in the carriage, upon hearing Li Ji's words, his face seemed a bit disgraced.
Giving a cold huff, surprisingly, he didn't reply.
The dignity of a Golden Core master should not be insulted.
But he had long since passed the phase of fighting and hazing over every little thing, and would not go out of his way to create enmity over a small matter.
Moreover, since Li Ji's real identity was unclear to him, the more disrespectful the other party's actions were, the more he felt that the other party was mysterious and formidable.
However, he was also somewhat curious and suspicious. He wondered what kind of person the other party had come to visit.
"Among those from our Huifeng Valley here, only Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment Competitors are present. The other two Sects have similar members. Could it be that the person he came to find is a gifted disciple of the three Sects?"
With this thought, the corner of Master Yan's eye swept over the crowd. He took a short pause at Feng Bao, cultivator Xu from the Xuli Sect, and Zhang Yunlong from the Danlong School.
If it was a matter of qualification, among the three Sect cultivators present, these were the ones with the most potential.
As for the Rogue Cultivators…he completely disregarded them.
Not that he despised them, but the fact that all cultivators of good qualification had nearly been taken away by the three Sects.
This minor amount left also seemed inconsequential.
Most Rogue Cultivators are undistinguished leftovers from the Sects.
Seeing this, Li Ji could only helplessly bow his hand and give an awkward smile, then promptly turned his gaze and swiftly landed on a person in the crowd, brightening up at once:
"Fellow Cultivator Shen!"
This shout immediately drew everyone's focus back to Wang Ba.
Even Master Yan couldn't help but display a trace of surprise.
"The master of this carriage sought for is him?"
Not to mention Wang Tang and Zhang Yunlong, who are looking at Wang Ba with varying expressions.
Puzzled, confused, astonished….
After all, chicken essence is only effective for Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment Cultivators, and practically has less noticeable effects on those between middle and late-stage Foundation Establishment Cultivators.
Not even Golden Core Masters, let alone Wang Tang and the others, really value the chicken essence itself.
What they value more is the chicken essence's ability to help mid-low level Cultivators breakthrough bottlenecks and its attraction to the capable Rogue Cultivators.
Especially at times when the three major sects are in desperate need of external power.
So when they try to relate to the master of this carriage, they indeed find it a bit baffling.
"Unless… this person controls some forces."
This idea isn't just held by Wang Tang and Zhang Yunlong; it also prompts Master Yan to narrow his eyes.
Shen Fu is more valuable to a faction than to an individual.
That's everyone's consensus.
That's why Master Yan would never allow anyone outside of the three major Sects to get their hands on Shen Fu; even if it meant destroying it, he would not let it be controlled by others, at least not within Yan State!
Although Wang Ba in the crowd felt something, he was still shocked at heart when he heard Li Ji calling him.
However, his face bore no emotion as he smiled and nodded, bowing his hand to say:
"Fellow Cultivator Li, it has been a while."
"Haha, Fellow Cultivator Shen is too polite. We just met a few days ago. How can you talk about it like it has been a long time?"
Li Ji laughed and brought the carriage to land.
Seeing this, Master Yan's face darkened further.
Li Ji seemed to sense the growing tension and hastened to apologize to Master Yan again and again.
But soon after, he seemed to have heard something, and his face crumpled into an awkward look again. He hesitated, then paid his respects to Master Yan:
"Master Yan, I have an impolite request… my uncle wishes to chat with Fellow Cultivator Shen alone. I wonder if you could give us some privacy?"
Upon hearing these words, even as Master Yan tried to suppress his anger, his face turned cold.
Feng Bao couldn't help but angrily say, "You are speaking big words while hiding yourself!"
"Feng Bao."
Master Yan uttered a light reprimand.
Feng Bao glared at Li Ji unhappily, while Li Ji responded with only a helpless and rueful smile.
However, Master Yan's gaze went past Li Ji and was once again fixed on the carriage, his voice icy cold:
"Fellow Cultivator, I have been very patient, but you are still pushing me too far. Are you trying to say there is no one in Yan State to stand up against you?"
The carriage remained silent for a moment.
Master Yan's face darkened even further.
The surroundings fell silent.
The Cultivators from the three major sects all sensed danger and retreated cautiously.
Yet their gaze at the carriage was filled with indignation.
Wang Ba, however, was a bit troubled.
His home was right behind him, and honestly, he really wanted to slip inside at this moment, take Bu Chan and activate his Teleportation Talisman to flee as far as possible.
With his current substantial reserve of the Power of the Yin God, if he decided to hide after escape, even the Immortal Master of the Nascent Soul might not be able to find him if he personally searched.
This too was one of the reasons why he dared to take risks.
But after some thought, he finally chose to give up.
Although Fenglin Continent was vast, there was no longer a quiet place. Even if he could evade today, what about tomorrow?
His considerable group of Spirit Beasts required feeding, and to feed them required resources.
Spiritual Lineages, foods filled with Spiritual Energy, spirit fields, etcetera – without a stable environment, procuring even chicken feed was difficult.
And in the resource-scarce, constantly warring small countries, as a Rogue Cultivator, it was very difficult to be self-sufficient peacefully.
Who knows when he might be captured by a Sect Cultivator that suddenly appeared while surviving in some corner.
By the time he regrets it then, it would be too late.
Only by abandoning his usual low-profile development style, integrating into society and participating in it,
can he have the chance to develop.
Then as quickly as possible, cultivate a Class III Spirit Chicken, enter the Linglong Ghost Market's third stage and find a powerful faction to trust.
Of course, all these aren't important.
What's important is that even if he fails, he's confident he can escape.
After all, a Golden Core Master can't always guard him.
He isn't afraid of those below the Golden Core.
The key point is, the arrival of Li Ji and his 'uncle' gave Wang Ba a chance of rejuvenating his immature plan that was on the verge of collapsing.
With that thought, he took Bu Chan and retreated towards his house. He only stuffed Bu Chan inside and stayed outside himself.
Seeing this, the Cultivators from the three major sects didn't think much of it. Their focus was still on the carriage.
Finally.
Under the scrutiny of many Cultivators,
a cold and calm female voice came from within the carriage:
"Scram."
Chapter 364: Chapter 16 Prince Gao..._1
Just a soft word.
Without any redundant mana aura.
Master Yan's eyes widened in shock!
The one in the carriage, was he an Earth Cultivator?
In an instant, he surmised the identity of the person in the carriage!
"You are Prince Gao…"
Boom!
Before he could finish, an astonishing light suddenly burst from the carriage, striking at Master Yan!
Alarmed, Master Yan hastily cried out,
"Respected one, please forgive me! I spoke out of turn!"
The light slowed down just before Master Yan's face, revealing its true nature.
It was a jade emerald bracelet.
But the bracelet had no smooth texture, instead, it carried a sharp, mountain-shattering aura.
Quickly, the bracelet recoiled and returned to the carriage.
The person inside the carriage remained silent.
Whether it was Master Yan or the cultivators from the three major sects around them, they all held their tongues, quickly dispersing to the outer ring.
Master Yan had guessed the identity of the person and dared not offend him.
As for the cultivators from the three major sects, they were shocked by the carriage master's tyranny.
Master Yan was indeed a veteran Golden Core cultivator from Huifeng Valley, just a step away from the late-stage Golden Core.
Yet in front of the carriage master, he was so humble, which startled everyone present.
Upon seeing this, Li Ji, on the carriage, couldn't help but shake his head with a bitter smile.
It seemed that he was not surprised by this situation.
Then he directly steered the carriage to stand before Wang Ba.
The Mixed Chi Horse looked down at Wang Ba from a high position, huffing out a thick hot breath on him, which induced a burning sensation in Wang Ba.
"Huh!"
Li Ji quickly scolded twice.
The Mixed Chi Horse then turned its head away, seemingly not interested in the Foundation Establishment Competitor, Wang Ba.
Li Ji then jumped off the carriage, apologized and said,
"Shen, these Chi Horses are hybrids, and they are not smart. I hope you won't mind."
Wang Ba couldn't help but cast a few more glances at the Mixed Chi Horse; it was one of the few opportunities he had to see a Class III Spirit Beast.
He then turned to Li Ji and earnestly said,
"No problem, I should thank you. If you hadn't come at the right time, I'm afraid…"
Li Ji waved his hand with a smile, signaling Wang Ba towards the carriage, saying,
"It's not me who specifically wanted to find you, but my Master Uncle."
"Looking for me?"
Wang Ba looked at the carriage with some confusion, and then quickly paid his respects,
"Junior Shen Fu, meets Senior."
A translucent curtain on the carriage did not lift, but this time, the person in the carriage finally spoke again.
The voice was pleasing, carrying a hint of maturity.
It was drastically different from the indifferent voice earlier.
"The chicken essence which Li Ji has, did you refine it?"
Wang Ba wasted no time in responding,
"Yes, it was made by me. What does the senior need it for?"
"As long as you refined it, that's enough."
The woman's voice came back from the carriage,
"Can you make Class III chicken essence?"
"This…"
Wang Ba hesitated slightly, and finally admitted honestly,
"I'm not strong enough and have never refined it. Besides, the type of chickens I use is special, no class has reached Class III, so I'm afraid I may not be able to refine it immediately."
The carriage fell silent.
Li Ji by the side was also feeling anxious for Wang Ba.
Just when Wang Ba was growing slightly nervous under Li Ji's influence, the woman's voice came from the carriage again,
"Can you refine Class II chicken essence?"
Upon hearing this, Wang Ba immediately perked up and quickly said,
"Yes, but the purity might not be perfect."
The person in the carriage asked again,
"What can the purity reach?"
"It should be about eighty percent."
Wang Ba's answer was somewhat conservative.
In fact, the actual purity was close to ninety percent, but in case it couldn't reach, he didn't dare to boast.
Upon hearing Wang Ba's words, the carriage fell silent again.
After a while, the woman's voice slowly came out,
"I want two hundred of those you made for Li Ji."
"Two hundred?!"
Upon hearing this, Wang Ba was taken aback.
Then a touch of delight arose in his heart.
That wass a big order!
Two hundred portions of chicken essence, according to the specs he used for Li Ji's refinement, that would be 200 Class II upper grade Spirit Chickens.
With these many portions of chicken essence, each upper grade Spirit Chicken was worth 80 middle grade Spirit Stones, which teed up to a total value of 16,000 middle grade Spirit Stones.
That was more than his income for over a year.
He quickly asked, "When would senior need it?"
"The sooner the better, I have great use for it."
"Oh, and what's the price?"
The lady in the carriage seemed indifferent.
Wang Ba calculated in his mind and replied,
"Since you are Li Ji's Master Uncle, I naturally won't charge you. If we go by 80 middle grade Spirit Stone per chicken, it totals to 16,000 middle grade Spirit Stones."
"How much?!"
The lady's voice in the carriage involuntarily escalated, despite her effort to control it, one could still hear a rare fluctuation in her tone.
Nevertheless, Wang Ba calmly replied, "In response to the senior, I am protected by the senior this time. It's an honor for these essences to be appreciated by senior. Therefore, I won't charge a single Spirit Stone for these chicken essences."
"Of course, my refining may be slow, and I'm afraid it will take some time to finish."
Upon hearing these words, Li Ji by the side couldn't help but give Wang Ba a thumbs up.
He thought that Shen was as honest as he was, but he didn't expect Shen to be much more flexible than him.
Chapter 365: Chapter 16 Prince Gao… _2
At least he can't bring himself to say such flattering words.
Of course, what surprised him the most was the audacity of denying more than ten thousand middle-grade spirit stones. He admits he couldn't do that even if he reached the Golden Core stage.
The carriage also fell silent. After a while, the woman's voice came again, full of sighing.
"You sure know how to do business, and to exploit situations."
"Well, it's of no harm to me anyway. But, don't act under my name."
"We are henceforth even."
Wang Ba, who was somewhat tense at first, relaxed upon hearing this and immediately bowed in gratitude.
"Indeed, I can't hide anything from your keen eyes."
"Alright then, make at least ten portions per month. I'll send Li Ji to pick them up."
The woman in the carriage said indifferently.
"Li Ji, I'm tired. Let's head back."
"Yes, master."
Although Li Ji sounded a bit helpless, he still bowed to Wang Ba before reluctantly climbing onto the carriage.
Upon Li Ji's urging, the Mixed Chi Horse impatiently snorted.
Li Ji then cracked the whip, and with a long neigh, the four horses jumped into the air and flew towards the horizon.
They disappeared in the twinkling of an eye.
As the carriage left, a hint of apprehension appeared in the eyes of the cultivators from the three major sects gazing at Wang Ba.
Although they hadn't heard the conversation between the woman in the carriage and Wang Ba, the fact that she went specially to see Wang Ba and seemed to have talked for a while already spoke volumes.
The atmosphere instantaneously became a bit subtle and awkward.
Master Yan suddenly stepped forward, his initially stern face softened, and he chuckled at Wang Ba.
"What's the relationship between you and that person, Shen? I don't remember you mentioned…"
This is the difference between having a background and not having one.
Wang Ba couldn't help but sigh.
It seems that the influence of Li Ji's master is quite remarkable, much more than he had imagined.
However, he showed a helpless smile on his face, pointed at his mouth, then pointed at the sky.
Without speaking a word, Master Yan nodded knowingly.
"Alright, I understand. Given their unique identity, even in the Chu Dynasty… Ahem, by the way, Shen. Why don't we go back to Huifeng Valley first? I can arrange for the valley master to hold a welcoming party for you."
"Master Yan, you're mistaken. Master Shen is also a guest in our Xuli Sect…"
"And also in our Danlong School…"
Wang Tang and Zhang Yunlong immediately interrupted.
This Master Shen already had quite a reputation and was not someone the three major sects could overlook. Now, it seemed as though he had even deeper connections. If such a person were to be swayed by the Huifeng Valley, the other two sects would be at a disadvantage.
Even out of fear for the presence of the Golden Core reality cultivator, both men had to compete with Master Yan.
Master Yan wanted to reject outright, but after glancing at Wang Ba, he held back.
In the end, it was Wen Yong from the side who put forth a proposal.
"Since Master Shen had previously stayed here, why don't we let him continue to stay on?"
"No way! Suppose someone from the Incense Fire Dao appears, it might endanger Master Shen's safety!"
Wang Tang was the first to object.
However, Zhang Yunlong supported Wen Yong.
"If you're worried, why not set up a station for each of our three sects here?"
On hearing this, Master Yan nodded slightly.
"Fine!"
This action not only gave Master Shen his freedom without offending the person on the carriage.
At the same time, they could closely monitor Master Shen's cooperation situation with the other two sects, which was the best arrangement.
However, this time, the ones making the decisions finally handed over the decision-making power to Wang Ba.
"Master Shen, what do you think?"
Of course, Wang Ba had no objections. He nodded in agreement.
Soon, the cultivators from the three major sects quickly leveled the nearby ground.
Houses rose up from the ground one by one.
But those captured rogue cultivators, including those of the Foundation Establishment stage, were not released.
Wang Ba watched for a while, sighing inwardly.
Such was the world of rogue cultivators. Faced with cultivators from the sects, all he could do was to protect himself and those around him.
Beyond that, there wasn't much else he could do.
After watching for a while, just as he was about to leave, he was gently stopped by Wang Tang.
"Hehe, Master Shen, it was all a misunderstanding."
With a broad smile on his face, Wang Tang looked just like an honest and simple farmer.
However, having witnessed Wang Ba's ruthless true face, he was not fooled by the illusion at all. Instead, he said with a light smile:
"What on earth are you talking about, Wang? You, too, have important responsibilities. I understand."
Hearing Wang Ba's words, the smile on Wang Tang's face grew even broader as he laughed heartily:
"Great! Your spirit truly reflects that of a master, unparalleled!"
"However, if you could come to our Xuli Sect, it would be even better. Our Xuli Sect is exceptionally resource-rich. If you were to join us, at the very least, you'd have a smooth journey up until the Golden Core stage."
Upon hearing this, Wang Ba merely chuckled nonchalantly and responded:
"Oh, really? Impressive."
The pair chatted casually for a while.
Wang Ba then bid Wang Tang farewell and returned to his own house.
This left Wang Tang standing alone, his face darkened, and his gaze seemed contemplative.
…
Above the open sky.
The constant clop-clop of horse hooves could be heard.
The white curtains were presently drawn up, revealing a mature-looking woman dressed in a yellow gown. She appeared to be in her early twenties.
The woman in the yellow gown leaned against the spacious carriage.
The interior of the carriage was dazzling and opulent, each piece of displayed treasure therein was nothing less than Class II.
Li Ji sat straight outside the carriage, his gaze fixed while controlling the Mixed Chi Horse.
The woman in yellow casually picked up a spirit fruit, about the size of a grape, from the table in the carriage and put it in her mouth.
She then casually said:
"Li Ji, are you still mad at uncle Master?"
"No,"
Li Ji shook his head, responding in a stifled voice.
"You're not? Does your temper not clear to me? Are you blaming me for not bringing him into the prince's mansion?"
The lady in yellow laughed lightly, then with a hint of helplessness, she said:
"You have to understand, I'm just a concubine at the House of Prince Gao. If it was a Class III cultivator, the prince might've agreed. But for an early-stage Foundation Establishment Rogue Cultivator…"
"Master Shen is proficient in the Dao of the Spirit Cook, his Cultivation Base is not his strength."
Li Ji couldn't help but retort.
"That's why I asked him if he could extract a Class III Chicken Essence. Unfortunately, he's incapable too."
The woman in yellow sighed helplessly, shrugging her shoulders.
"The Class II Chicken Essence isn't very useful to me either, as I will soon have to face the Nascent Soul Tribulation. I'm afraid only Class III Essence would have some effect."
Li Ji still wore an unconvinced expression.
The woman in yellow, somewhat helpless, said, "The Spirit Cook only gave you two or three doses of Chicken Essence for free, was that really enough to win you over?"
"This has nothing to do with it. Shen and I hit it off as kindred spirits at first sight. While the Chicken Essence is indeed precious, it's just icing on the cake,"
Li Ji immediately retorted.
Upon hearing this, the woman in yellow was rendered speechless.
After thinking for a moment, she gently sighed and said:
"What a pity, the Spirit Cook could survive for a while in Yan State with my support, but he won't last too long."
Her words immediately caught Li Ji's attention, leading him to turn his head and ask skeptically:
"Yan Qing from Huifeng Valley has recognized you. Does the sect from Yan State still dare to attack Shen?"
However, in response to Li Ji's question, the woman only chuckled.
Her voice carried a hint of innuendo:
"You're underestimating human nature and overestimating me."
…
Xuli Sect.
A figure hastily descended from the sky.
He had a broad face and seemed to be a simple and honest man.
It was Wang Tang.
But at this moment, his eyes flickered with a hint of urgency and eagerness.
Shortly after, he arrived at an immortal cave.
He bowed respectfully and said:
"Disciple Wang Tang, greeting the Sect Master!"
"Wang Tang… weren't you sent to recruit cultivators who excel in the Hundred Arts? Why did you return so soon?"
From within the immortal cave, a questioning voice echoed.
Wang Tang immediately relayed everything that had transpired that day.
Then he stated earnestly:
"Disciple thinks we should promptly kill Shen Fu!"
Chapter 366: Chapter 17: The Secret of the Golden Core_1
"Kill Shen Fu…"
There was a silence within the immortal cave.
It was long enough before…
The emotionless voice of the Sect Master of the Xuli Sect can be heard.
"Tell me your thoughts."
"Yes." Wang Tang quickly said, "As a disciple, I believe our sect's reputation among the rogue cultivators is… not so great. The reason we've been recruiting from Hundred Arts Cultivators is to prevent the disciples of Huifeng Valley and Danlong School from using them to tie our hands. By striking first, we have the upper hand, much more than just preempting Huifeng Valley or Danlong School."
"And we have offended him this time. Before I came back, I deliberately tested him and found that he is extremely wary of us."
"So, Shen Fu is likely to lean towards Huifeng Valley and Danlong School sooner or later, which may pose a latent threat to our Xuli Sect."
"Why not deal with him early to avoid future troubles!"
"I have spent a significant amount of money on cultivators from Wei State, some of whom are proficient in the Dead Curse, and they can easily assassinate Shen Fu without anyone knowing."
Upon hearing this, the Sect Master of Xuli Sect seemed to ponder for a while, but ultimately decided against imposing action.
"We cannot act against Shen Fu, at least not right now."
Wang Tang was taken aback by the sentence, and finally couldn't help but ask.
"May I ask the Sect Master, why can't we act? Shen Fu is capable of refining the Spirit Chicken Essence that helps others break through. If he remains committed to Huifeng Valley and Danlong School, given time, he will inevitably become a major problem!"
The Sect Master of Xuli Sect didn't seem bothered by Wang Tang's question. A calm voice came out from the cave.
"There are three reasons."
"Firstly, the Earth Cultivator who came here today with a Mixed Chi Horse is, if I'm not mistaken, probably Li Xiangyun, the princess of the House of Prince Gao from the Chu Dynasty. She is also a Yan state cultivator, and even though she started later than me, she was famous for her unparalleled talent and proud temperament. After marrying into the House of Prince Gao, her progress is likely at the peak of the Golden Core now. We do not need to provoke such a powerful enemy at this time, even though she might not stand up for Shen Fu."
"Secondly, the essence of the Spirit Chicken is indeed valuable. If we can make use of Shen Fu, it will bring great benefits to our Xuli Sect. It would be a waste to kill him directly, and it would be too easy for people to guess that it was our doing. Even if they can't find evidence, it will cause Huifeng Valley and Danlong School to be on guard against us ahead of time, which is of no benefit to the campaign for the Zhenling Palace. Of course, we could also try to figure out the secret of why the Spirit Chicken Essence has such an effect, in which case Shen Fu would have no value."
"Thirdly, even if Shen Fu poses a substantial threat to our Xuli Sect in the future, that's a problem for the future. Our current focus is not on these rogue cultivators. Don't confuse the priorities and waste too much energy on him."
"In addition to that, one of the reasons you mentioned is wrong."
Having heard several counterarguments from the Sect Master of Xuli Sect, Wang Tang was already sweating, and couldn't help but ask,
"Sect Master, where else was I wrong?"
The Sect Master of Xuli Sect slowly said,
"It's simple. If Shen Fu is a smart man, he won't favor any of the three sects."
"Maintaining balanced relationships is the only chance he has to survive."
"Otherwise, he would be seeking his own death!"
As he said this, he paused and continued earnestly,
"Wang Tang, you're different from Xu Yan and the others. I see potential in you, and you're likely my successor. When dealing with matters, you need to have a long-term perspective. Don't be too concerned about immediate gains and losses, otherwise, one mistake will lead to continuous mistakes."
Upon hearing this, Wang Tang showed a look of enlightenment and bowed respectfully,
"Thank you, Sect Master, for your guidance – I understand!"
"Alright, off you go. Go find those Wei State cultivators who are good at Dead Curse techniques."
The Sect Master of Xuli Sect said in a calm tone.
Wang Tang was taken aback. "Ah? Didn't you say not to act?"
"Foolish!"
The Sect Master of Xuli Sect instructed seriously, "Not acting now doesn't mean we won't act in the future. The situation changes, so must our response. It's best to have measures in place in advance, so if there are sudden changes, we can respond promptly and not be too passive."
Wang Tang felt like he had an epiphany and nodded repeatedly.
He couldn't help but sigh in his heart that the strength and prominence of the Xuli Sect today was indeed closely linked to the leadership of the Sect Master.
He felt a newfound respect for him.
Soon, he left in a hurry to find those cultivators from Wei State who were good at the Dead Curse methods.
…
The rogue cultivators' gathering place.
Within half a day it had turned into a small city.
On the city wall, the only Golden Core Master, Yan Qing, at the insistence of the cultivators from the three major sects was asked to inscribe the city's name.
Unable to refuse, Yan Qing finally settled on three characters:
'Yong'an City'.
Within Yong'an City, houses everywhere. Wang Ba's mansion was located near the center of the city.
And the headquarters of the three major sects were subtly surrounding Wang Ba's mansion.
Compared with the previous bustling atmosphere filled with the vibrant energy of life when used as a gathering place for rogue cultivators, the place now seemed extremely deserted.
The few rogue cultivators who remained in the city were as silent as cicadas in the cold, feeling uneasy.
"It won't be long before this place will be overflowing with people."
Master Yan expressed confidence and announced,
"Starting today, our Huifeng Valley will work on the construction of 'Yong'an City', providing rogue cultivators in Yan State with a city where they can live, cultivate and trade with peace of mind!"