Chapter 335: Southern Region, Return to Jia Ma Empire
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**
"Does Yao Lao happen to know anything about the Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent?"
Mo Yu's tone carried respect as he looked at the elder's ethereal form.
He had asked this question out of desperation. She Lao had fallen into a permanent slumber, and only by evolving into the higher-tier Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent could he awaken.
But with the vastness of the Dou Qi Continent, even a Dou Sheng could not claim to have visited every corner. Searching for the serpent's legacy seemed an impossible task. After much contemplation, Mo Yu had no choice but to turn to Yao Lao.
As a former member of the ancient Yao Clan and widely recognized as the "Continent's Greatest Alchemist," Yao Lao had traveled extensively and might possess some clues about the Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent.
Hearing Mo Yu's question, Yao Lao paused, stroking his illusory beard thoughtfully. "You're asking about the Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent? Did something happen to She Zun-Zhe?"
"As expected, nothing escapes Yao Lao's keen eyes." Mo Yu gave a wry smile. "Indeed, something has happened. Without the Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent's legacy, I'm afraid She Lao may never recover."
Mo Yu didn't hide anything and recounted in detail the events of the Northern Desert Plains battle: the clash between the Yuan Manor and Black Alliance, the appearance of Han Feng and Elder Mu Gu, She Lao's predicament, and the emergence of the Black Demon Army.
When the names Han Feng and Elder Mu Gu were mentioned, Yao Lao's expression shifted, and his soul force surged violently, filling the chamber with a blazing heat.
Sensing the danger, Mo Yu quickly circulated his Dou Qi to dispel the oppressive heat.
Only after a long while did Yao Lao calm himself, retracting his soul fluctuations with a heavy sigh. "Apologies, I lost control for a moment."
"No need to apologize, Senior," Mo Yu said reassuringly. He fully understood Yao Lao's reaction.
The illustrious Yao Zun-Zhe had been reduced to such a state largely because of Han Feng and Elder Mu Gu. It would be unnatural for Yao Lao to remain unmoved by their names.
"So it was Mu Gu working behind the scenes with Han Feng all along… I suspected that a shadowy hand orchestrated the events back then. It must have been the Hall 0f Souls."
Recalling his past, Yao Lao's features darkened as cold flames danced in his ancient eyes.
"Senior, please don't let anger consume you," Mo Yu interjected gently. "Though Han Feng and Elder Mu Gu escaped, with my cousin Xiao Yan's talents, I believe he will avenge you in the future."
At the mention of Xiao Yan, the flames in Yao Lao's eyes dimmed, replaced by a warm glimmer of pride.
Finding Xiao Yan during his darkest days had been a stroke of fortune, and it was Xiao Yan's unwavering determination that kindled Yao Lao's hope for revival.
Likewise, Xiao Yan owed much of his growth to Yao Lao's guidance. Together, they were a testament to the bonds of teacher and student.
As Mo Yu thought about She Lao, now lost in slumber, a pang of sorrow crossed his heart.
Sensing his mood, Yao Lao patted Mo Yu on the shoulder and said, "Xiao Yan is lucky to have a cousin like you who believes in him. As for She Zun-Zhe, I sympathize deeply. To forcefully burn his bloodline for power is indeed a desperate move. He is fortunate to have retained even a shred of vitality.
"The Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent's evolution might offer him salvation. However…"
Yao Lao paused, his expression contemplative.
Mo Yu held his breath, his eyes fixed on Yao Lao, silently urging him to continue.
A moment later, Yao Lao shook his head. "The Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent was a renowned magical beast of the ancient era, but it has not appeared on the continent for tens of thousands of years. I have not heard of any legacy or lineage of this beast surviving to the present."
Hearing this, a flicker of disappointment flashed in Mo Yu's eyes. If even Yao Lao had no knowledge of it, then the Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent's legacy might truly be beyond reach.
"However…" Yao Lao's voice suddenly broke the silence, kindling a spark of hope. "If you have the opportunity, you might want to visit the Ten Thousand Snake Island in the Southern Region.
"The Southern Region is more of a vast archipelago than a landmass, with countless islands scattered across its waters. Ten Thousand Snake Island lies at its heart. Though called an island, it is larger than ten Jia Ma Empires combined and teems with snake species, including some ancient lineages.
"If there are any clues to the Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent, Ten Thousand Snake Island is where you're most likely to find them."
"The Southern Region's Ten Thousand Snake Island…"
Mo Yu murmured the name, committing it to memory.
The Southern Region was an unfamiliar territory, both in this life and his previous one. Neither he nor Xiao Yan had ventured beyond the Northwest Continent and Central Plains.
Still, the mention of this mysterious region and its vast serpent population intrigued him. If there were even a sliver of a chance to save She Lao, Ten Thousand Snake Island would be worth exploring.
"Thank you, Yao Lao, for this invaluable information." Mo Yu cupped his hands in gratitude.
Waving dismissively, Yao Lao replied, "There's no need for thanks between us. She Zun-Zhe's plight is partly due to my treacherous disciple and traitorous junior. Helping you find a remedy is the least I can do."
Before departing, Yao Lao added a word of caution: "The Southern Region is home to many reclusive experts and formidable magical beasts. Though they do not rival the Central Plains in strength, you must tread carefully. It would be wise to wait until you've grown stronger before venturing there."
Mo Yu nodded solemnly. "Understood. I will proceed with caution when the time comes."
As Yao Lao studied Mo Yu's demeanor, a thoughtful expression crossed his face. "You mentioned that you hail from the Lei Clan, and Xiao Yan is of the Xiao Clan, correct?"
Hearing this, Mo Yu paused. He had forgotten that Yao Lao, as a member of the ancient Yao Clan, would naturally recognize the names of the Xiao Clan and Lei Clan.
As Yao Lao mused aloud, he couldn't help but marvel at the coincidence. For the Xiao Clan, Lei Clan, Gu Clan, and Yao Clan to intersect in such an unremarkable corner of the Northwest Continent was truly extraordinary.
After some contemplation, Yao Lao furrowed his brows and solemnly said to Mo Yu, "Regarding the matter of the Xiao Clan, I hope you won't mention it to Xiao Yan."
"You understand the burden Xiao Yan carries. Right now, his primary focus should be on improving his strength. The affairs of the Xiao Clan are far too overwhelming for him to handle at this stage. Therefore, I ask you to temporarily withhold this information." Yao Lao's voice carried a note of earnest concern.
Hearing this, Mo Yu nodded silently.
The Ancient Eight Clans were tied to the most hidden secrets of the continent, matters that a yet-to-mature Xiao Yan was indeed not ready to face. It was best to keep this from him for now.
After inquiring about the Nine-Winged Purple-Gold Serpent, Yao Lao returned to the ring for rest, while Mo Yu and Xiao Yan stepped out of the secret chamber together.
A Mountain Outside Mo City
The atmosphere shifted subtly as the silver-eyed young man appeared atop the mountain. The shadows standing behind Xiao Li directed their gazes toward this figure.
In an instant, the already quiet atmosphere grew deathly still, a peculiar pressure descending upon the mountain. Even the distant roars of magical beasts from the forest abruptly ceased.
Looking at the silver-eyed youth with a faint smile, Tie Wu, Su Mei, and Elder Yin Gu felt a chill in their hearts, their smiles dimming slightly. Despite this young man's age being far lower than theirs, his influence in the Black-Corner Region had far surpassed their own.
Especially after the battle on the Northern Plains, where they had violated the alliance's terms, they were forced to submit to punishment, eventually joining Yuan Manor under this youth's command.
While they could joke and converse freely with Xiao Li, their demeanor turned cautious and respectful in front of this handsome young man. They dared not show the slightest trace of negligence.
Behind Mo Yu, Xiao Yan observed the reverence these powerful individuals held for his cousin. His dark eyes betrayed a hint of surprise.
Cousin Mo Yu commands such high esteem in Yuan Manor!
"Greetings, Manor Lord!"
As Mo Yu approached, Xiao Li and the dozens of Yuan Manor experts behind him bowed respectfully in unison.
"Mm."
Nodding slightly, Mo Yu's gaze swept across the gathered forces. Besides the three Dou Huang experts of the Offering Hall—Su Mei, Tie Wu, and Elder Yin Gu—the group also included Qing Lin, Zi Yan, Lin Yan, and several newly recruited Dou Wang experts.
In total, Yuan Manor now boasted five Dou Huang experts, fifteen Dou Wang experts, and approximately one hundred Dou Ling experts.
Such a formidable force could easily dominate the entire Jia Ma Empire!
As for Zi Huo, Mo Yu had left him to guard their stronghold in Mo City. Revenge was crucial, but abandoning their base was unwise. Even with Jia Nan Academy's protection, Mo Yu felt more at ease leaving Zi Huo behind. With his strength, coupled with the fact that only half of Yuan Manor's forces were headed to the Jia Ma Empire, they could defend against any attack from the Black Emperor Sect or the Demon Flame Valley.
Preparation for the Journey
"The journey to the Jia Ma Empire is far too long. Even Dou Wang experts can't sustain their Dou Qi wings for the entire trip, let alone the many Dou Ling-level members we have," Xiao Li commented after exchanging greetings with Xiao Yan.
Mo Yu nodded. Having traveled from the Jia Ma Empire to the Black-Corner Region himself, he understood just how arduous the journey was. Even with his current strength, he would need several stops to cover the distance.
"Heh, traveling on foot would take over half a year to reach the Jia Ma Empire." Xiao Li laughed, then let out a sharp whistle.
As the sound echoed, deep roars rose from the forest below the mountain. Soon, amidst a flurry of birds taking flight, a dozen massive, ferocious magical beasts with broad wings ascended into the sky, their powerful presence shaking the air.
"These ten Tiger Eagle Beasts are genuine fourth-tier magical beasts. Not only are they fierce, but they are also exceptionally suited for long-distance flight. Though difficult to tame, when Yuan Manor makes a request, even the Beast Taming Sect has to comply. I secured these ten beasts directly," Xiao Li said, pointing to the mighty creatures.
"Cousin Xiao Li always handles things reliably." Mo Yu smiled faintly.
"All necessary supplies for the journey have also been arranged. We're ready to depart for the Jia Ma Empire at any time," Xiao Li added, his eyes glimmering with fervent anticipation.
Beside him, Xiao Yan's expression mirrored the same eagerness.
"In that case…"
Mo Yu's silver eyes shone with a peculiar light. His voice suddenly rose, resonating powerfully across the mountain.
"What are we waiting for? Everyone, mount the Tiger Eagle Beasts. We set out for the Jia Ma Empire immediately!"
As his voice fell, over a hundred figures leapt simultaneously, landing on the wide backs of the waiting Tiger Eagle Beasts.
Seeing everyone in position, Xiao Li blew another sharp whistle. The Tiger Eagle Beasts let out low roars, spread their vast wings, and soared into the sky amidst gusts of wind.
Standing atop the lead beast, Mo Yu felt the howling wind ruffle his clothes. He gazed down at the shrinking ground below, then slowly lifted his eyes to the northern sky, a chilling smile curling at his lips.
"Jia Ma Empire, Yun Lan Sect, Mu Lan Valley… I'm back!"
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