Chapter 446: Shadow Abyss Sect
The sword body of the Qianyuan Sword trembled slightly, as if it was also rejoicing at its advancement in grade. After all, it's too difficult for a practitioner at the Aperture Tempering realm to nurture a supreme grade spiritual weapon.
Only those strong beyond the Aperture Tempering realm can quickly promote a superior spiritual weapon to the level of a top-grade one through their own strength.
However, practitioners at the Aperture Tempering realm can only benefit from their own strength when using magical treasures to enhance their combat power. Spiritual weapons in the hands of Aperture Tempering realm practitioners are of no assistance, even top-grade ones.
Chen Fei took out a token from his sleeve, which was the Haiyue Token. In one year, the Haiyue Cave Mansion would open, and Chen Fei would definitely go on this journey.
The main goal is to obtain breakthrough elixirs or spiritual materials.
Of course, there are other treasures within the Haiyue Cave Mansion, but for now, Chen Fei has prioritized them at the bottom of his list. Only by improving his own strength can those other things become more meaningful.
If Chen Fei doesn't obtain breakthrough elixirs or spiritual materials in the Haiyue Cave Mansion, he might have to attempt a direct breakthrough later.
Without breakthrough elixirs or spiritual materials, he can still forcibly break through, but the success rate will inevitably decrease. That's an unavoidable fact.
Just like in everyday cultivation, even without consuming elixirs, one's cultivation will slowly increase, but in terms of efficiency, it can't compare to the effects of using elixirs.
Breaking through realms is no different in this regard.
The Qianyuan Sword's blade quivered slightly, as if it too celebrated its upgrade in quality. Indeed, for a Aperture Tempering realm practitioner, cultivating a high-grade spiritual weapon posed a daunting challenge.
Only those at a higher stage than the Aperture Tempering realm could rapidly elevate a superior spiritual weapon to the status of a top-grade one through their innate power.
Nonetheless, Aperture Tempering realm cultivators could only tap into their innate power when using magical treasures to enhance their combat prowess. Even with a top-grade spiritual weapon in their hands, Aperture Tempering realm practitioners received no assistance.
From his sleeve, Chen Fei retrieved a token—the Haiyue Token. In a year's time, the Haiyue Cave Mansion would open, and Chen Fei was determined to embark on this journey.
His primary objective was to acquire breakthrough elixirs or spiritual materials.
Undoubtedly, the Haiyue Cave Mansion held other treasures, but for now, Chen Fei placed them at the bottom of his priorities. Only by enhancing his own strength could those other items gain significance.
If, within the Haiyue Cave Mansion, Chen Fei failed to secure breakthrough elixirs or spiritual materials, he might have to contemplate a direct breakthrough later.
Lacking these vital resources, he could still forcefully break through, albeit with a diminished success rate—an inescapable reality.
Similar to daily cultivation, even without partaking in elixirs, one's cultivation would gradually advance, yet in terms of efficiency, it paled in comparison to elixir usage.
Breaking through realms followed the same principles.
Subsequent battles further confirmed some of Chen Fei's suspicions. The eerie roars of that Snow Evil concealed the same kind of frenzied chaos found in the Strange Heart Realm.
Compared to the dynasty from earlier, it was apparent that the people from the Boundless Sea had delved much deeper into the exploration of the Strange Heart Realm.
The Strange Heart Realm was undoubtedly a massive treasure trove. Thanks to his acquisition of the Heart Refinement Formation, Chen Fei's mental power had rapidly reached the pinnacle of the Aperture Tempering realm.
Otherwise, with the resources Chen Fei had obtained himself, purchasing elixirs that could aid his mental power would likely deplete his elemental stones immediately. And if he wanted to buy elixirs for cultivating elemental power, he would be left with no resources.
Half an hour later, Chen Fei appeared in a shop in Haiyan City.
At this moment, Chen Fei's aura had weakened to the level of mid-Aperture Tempering realm, and his appearance had changed slightly. This image and aura had no connection to the Chen Fei on the Hidden Dragon and Young Phoenix Ranking.
Therefore, entering Haiyan City, Chen Fei went unnoticed. Being at the mid-Aperture Tempering realm in the entire Haiyan City was not considered a particularly special existence.
"Sir, here is the information you requested. Please have a look," the shopkeeper said with a friendly smile as he handed a paper to Chen Fei.
Chen Fei took the paper and started reading it slowly. After a moment, he raised his head, his eyes filled with contemplation.
This was an information trading shop, a type of establishment that could be found in almost every city and was typically operated by local powers.
Naturally, what Chen Fei purchased was information about Sheng Lanping.
Just as Chen Fei had suspected, Sheng Lanping indeed hailed from one of the major forces within the Thousand Feathers Alliance—the Shadow Abyss Sect!
The Shadow Abyss Sect was one of the top ten sects within the Thousand Feathers Alliance. Among these ten sects, each had a Combined Aperture Tempering realm peak powerhouse overseeing them, along with several other Combined Aperture Tempering realm cultivators within the sect.
In the former dynasty's territory, Combined Aperture Tempering realm cultivators were considered dominant. While they didn't hold the same status in the Boundless Sea, they were still a force to be reckoned with.
In particular, Combined Aperture Tempering realm peak cultivators, who were just a step away from reaching the Mountain Sea realm, were formidable. It could be imagined how vast and influential these ten sects were with such powerhouses at their helm.
Sheng Lanping's background within such a sect meant she had no need to conceal her identity information when ranking on the Hidden Dragon and Young Phoenix Ranking. In fact, she had to showcase her talents to the fullest extent in order to thrive within the Shadow Abyss Sect.
Therefore, in this shop, Chen Fei easily acquired information about Sheng Lanping. It wasn't just about Sheng Lanping; he also learned some details about the Shadow Abyss Sect.
Chen Fei had previously suspected a connection between Sheng Lanping's cultivation technique and the Strange Heart Realm, and it seemed his hunch was correct.
While the name of the Shadow Abyss Sect might sound sinister, its disciples never engaged in blood rituals or similar practices. Their daily cultivation took place within the Strange Heart Realm.
The Shadow Abyss Sect had never concealed this fact. In fact, disciples of the Shadow Abyss Sect often invited individuals from other sects to explore the Strange Heart Realm together.
The Strange Heart Realm was vast, almost like an integral part of the world itself, with the Shadow Abyss Sect, while powerful, still being a mere speck within it.
However, in terms of understanding the Strange Heart Realm, the Shadow Abyss Sect was indeed the strongest presence within the entire Thousand Feathers Alliance.
"The Shadow Abyss Sect."
Chen Fei folded the paper in his hand and contemplated paying a visit to the Shadow Abyss Sect. Not to join their sect, but with the intention of entering the Strange Heart Realm in a location close to the sect.
He wanted to observe how the disciples of the Shadow Abyss Sect dealt with the Evils.
Moreover, Chen Fei wondered if there might be some subtle connections between the Shadow Abyss Sect and the mysterious force that once possessed the Heart Refinement Formation.
Chen Fei had been bothered by the fragmented cultivation techniques recorded on the dilapidated walls within the Strange Heart Realm. Unfortunately, no matter how much he lamented, the fragmented records remained inscrutable. Despite spending days or even weeks in the Enlightenment Tower, he couldn't decipher anything from those disjointed writings.
"Safe travels, sir," the shopkeeper said with a smile as he collected the silver notes left by Chen Fei on the table.
Chen Fei nodded and left the shop. He looked around and decided to sell the high-grade spiritual sword he had obtained from the Imperial City.
At this moment, Chen Fei's remaining elemental stones were quite scarce. Although there was a certain amount still stored on the panel, these elemental stones could only be stored and not withdrawn.
Having no money in his pockets felt somewhat uncomfortable.
Chen Fei's figure flickered, and he disappeared from his original location. When he turned into an alley, his appearance changed slightly, and his aura rose to the level of advanced Aperture Tempering realm.
Selling a high-grade spiritual sword at mid-Aperture Tempering realm might pose some trouble or might not. However, the probability of encountering trouble when selling it at late Aperture Tempering realm was almost negligible.
Chen Fei passed through several streets and arrived at the largest shop in Haiyan City, Haiyan Pavilion.
Using the city's name as the shop's name indicated the background of Haiyan Pavilion. Such shops typically bought and sold even top-grade spiritual weapons, and in their eyes, high-grade spiritual weapons were just valuable commodities.
Unlike his experience in the Imperial City, Chen Fei didn't have to wait for several days to find a buyer here. Within Haiyan Pavilion, he directly sold the high-grade spiritual sword for 2,300 low-grade elemental stones.
Compared to the Primordial Sealing Mirror he had sold before, this high-grade spiritual sword fetched an even higher price. Apart from its better quality, a spiritual sword, being a warrior's primary weapon, was slightly more valuable than special spiritual artifacts like the Primordial Sealing Mirror.
Of course, it could also be because acquiring elemental stones was easier in the Boundless Sea compared to the Imperial City. After all, the elemental energy in the air here was much denser, increasing the probability of finding elemental stone veins by a significant margin.
The most obvious difference was that in the Immortal Cloud City, elemental stones were just elemental stones, without distinctions of low, mid, or high grades. However, in the Boundless Sea, all the elemental stones Chen Fei had acquired were of low-grade quality.
There was a hundredfold difference in grade between each elemental stone. A mid-grade elemental stone could directly exchange for a hundred low-grade elemental stones, making the conversion rate quite extravagant.
Mid-grade elemental stones were generally not used by mid-Aperture Tempering realm cultivators, and it was almost a waste to use mid-grade elemental stones for cultivation at that level. However, there were rumors that advanced Aperture Tempering realm cultivators might benefit slightly from using mid-grade elemental stones to expand their mental power, which could aid in breaking through to the Combined Aperture Tempering realm.
In the end, Chen Fei chose to keep ten mid-grade elemental stones, while the rest were still low-grade elemental stones.
As he walked out of Haiyan Pavilion, Chen Fei was contemplating whether to find a place to use the mid-grade elemental stones for cultivation and give it a try. Suddenly, his brow furrowed, and he took out a piece of jade from his pocket, which was now emitting a faint red glow.
This message had been entrusted to Chen Fei by the sect leader, Qu Qingsheng. The faint red color indicated that the sect was currently facing a threat from an Aperture Tempering realm peak powerhouse, and Qu Qingsheng advised Chen Fei not to return for the time being.
Initially, Qu Qingsheng had considered not sending this message, but he was afraid that if Chen Fei suddenly returned, the danger to Chen Fei would be even greater. Faced with an Aperture Tempering realm peak powerhouse, having Chen Fei might provide some assistance, but it was more likely that the entire sect would be wiped out.
Hundreds of miles away, on the Primordial Water Island, two figures moved confidently, stepping on the steps of the Primordial Sword Sect as if they owned the place. They were heading towards the main peak of the Primordial Sword Sect..
Chapter 447: Slavery
Primordial Sword Sect, several figures flickered and appeared on the steps. It was Qu Qingsheng, Zhou Zixuan, and Ji Ruiqing from the Sunken Water Pavilion. At this moment, the three of them looked at the two approaching individuals, their expressions full of caution.
"Here they come. Come with me," Qiu Changtai looked up at Qu Qingsheng and the others, a faint smile on his face.
"I wonder, for what reason has Your Excellency come to our Primordial Water Island?" Qu Qingsheng clasped his hands and spoke with a deep voice.
The pinnacle of the Aperture Tempering realm, it was much stronger compared to the advanced Aperture Tempering realm.
Although Qu Qingsheng's strength had increased significantly compared to the past, thanks to the recovery of the Primordial Sword Scripture, it still couldn't compare to the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm. At most, being in the Primordial Sword Sect, Qu Qingsheng and his companions could benefit from the sect's formation and display even greater strength. However, whether it had any effect on the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, Qu Qingsheng was uncertain.
"This island is now called Primordial Water Island? The name is quite fitting," Qiu Changtai nodded slightly, the smile on his face fading. "So, does that mean I can't leave now that this island belongs to you?"
"Primordial Sword Sect? Is this how you treat your guests?" Qiu Changtai's wife, Lou Sanfeng, chuckled softly, but her laughter was extremely cold, devoid of any warmth and filled with sharpness.
"Your words are too serious. If you wish to see Primordial Water Island, you are welcome to do so. Please, this way," Qu Qingsheng pondered for a moment and then slightly gestured with his right hand, leading Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng up the steps.
Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng casually walked among Qu Qingsheng and his companions, showing no concern that they might suddenly launch an attack.
Qiu Changtai was at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, while Lou Sanfeng was in the advanced Aperture Tempering realm, having opened a hundred meridians. In the face of Qu Qingsheng and his two companions, who were all in the advanced Aperture Tempering realm, there was indeed no pressure on their part.
The five of them ascended the steps and reached the halfway point. Qiu Changtai paused, approached a stone pavilion by the side of the road, and looked at the distant bay, a slight smile on his face.
"This view is quite nice. What do you think, my lady?" Qiu Changtai turned to Lou Sanfeng.
Lou Sanfeng had a slight smile on her face, took a few steps forward, and nodded slightly. She was satisfied with the scenery before her.
Watching Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng act as if they had come to the Primordial Water Pavilion just for a leisurely outing, it seemed as if they were truly here to enjoy the scenery. However, this was the Primordial Sword Sect, and the two sides had never met before. Coming to another sect like this was certainly not just for sightseeing and leisure.
Qiu Changtai stood in place, gazing into the distance, then turned to Lou Sanfeng and said, "My lady, if you like this place, I can accompany you here more often during our leisure time."
"No need for that. While the scenery is indeed nice, it's just that, nice. After seeing it once, there's no need to see it again. The next time won't be the same as the first time," Lou Sanfeng said with a smile.
"You're right, my lady. Indeed, after a few more looks, it won't have the same feeling as before. This place is still missing something," Qiu Changtai shook his head, took Lou Sanfeng's hand, and continued walking up the steps. Qiu Changtai's demeanor made it seem as if they were the hosts here, not the Primordial Sword Sect.
Zhou Zixuan took a deep breath, suppressing the anger in his heart. The enemy was too strong, and solving this matter peacefully might be a small sacrifice if it could be achieved.
Qu Qingsheng's expression became solemn as he watched the backs of Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng. The newcomers didn't seem friendly, and it was unlikely that things would be so simple to resolve.
Qu Qingsheng turned to glance at Ji Ruiqing, who also had a slight frown on her face.
On Primordial Water Island, the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion were known to assist and support each other. Whenever one side faced trouble, the other would provide strong assistance.
The principle was simple: when the lips are gone, the teeth are cold. Ji Ruiqing understood this well.
Unfortunately, at this moment, another senior elder from the Sunken Water Pavilion who was also in the advanced Aperture Tempering realm was not within the sect. He had been away on an internal mission for several days. As a result, the strength of both sects at this moment was relatively weak. Although they had three advanced Aperture Tempering realm cultivators, they still seemed somewhat inadequate in the face of the peak Aperture Tempering realm strength of the newcomers.
A thousand miles away, Chen Fei's figure flickered as he had already left Haiyan City and was sprinting towards Primordial Water Island at extreme speed.
However, Primordial Water Island was located in a remote area, over a thousand miles away from Haiyan City. Even with Chen Fei's current speed, he couldn't return to the sect in an instant.
Chen Fei could only use his full speed, hoping to get back to the sect in the shortest time possible.
"At the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm!" Chen Fei furrowed his brows, and with his right foot stepping on the sea's surface, creating ripples, he disappeared from his original position, already a hundred paces away.
When both sects initially chose Primordial Water Island, they believed that the island was surrounded by minimal resources, making it highly unlikely for anyone to spy on them. Otherwise, if the resources were slightly richer, the presence of both the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion would have established a stronghold on the island much earlier.
In the previous six months, the island had indeed been calm and peaceful. Occasionally, other forces from neighboring islands would visit, but both sides had similar strengths and maintained a peaceful attitude.
Chen Fei hadn't anticipated that, in just a few days of his absence in Haiyan City, a cultivator at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm would arrive at Primordial Water Island.
Primordial Water Island.
Qiu Changtai, holding Lou Sanfeng's hand, strolled around as if they were taking a leisurely walk on the steps, occasionally stopping to admire the beautiful scenery.
As for Qu Qingsheng and his two companions, after the initial conversation, Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng completely ignored them. Qu Qingsheng and his companions seemed to have turned into mere followers of Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng.
Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng walked and paused at their leisure until they finally reached the summit of the Primordial Sword Sect's main peak. At this moment, all the Aperture Tempering realm elders from both the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion stood on the main peak, observing Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng.
Qiu Changtai's gaze bypassed the elders of both sects and focused on the grand hall in the distance, nodding slightly.
"This hall has quite a unique style. Our buildings on the island appear rather outdated in comparison," Qiu Changtai turned to Lou Sanfeng and remarked.
"Later, we can have it demolished and rebuilt," Lou Sanfeng looked at the grand hall of the Primordial Sword Sect and then gestured with her eyes towards the elders of both sects, wearing a meaningful smile on her face.
"Let's go inside and take a look."
Qiu Changtai walked towards the main hall, and the elders of the two sects in front of the main hall involuntarily moved aside as they felt the slight pressure from Qiu Changtai's aura. Faced with the overwhelming aura of a peak Aperture Tempering realm cultivator, even though they were only in the mid or early stages of the Aperture Tempering realm, they had no strength to resist.
"We've never heard of your two sects before. Where do you come from?" Standing in the main hall, Qiu Changtai looked around and then turned to Qu Qingsheng. His tone was composed but carried an underlying command.
"We are from small sects in other sea regions," Qu Qingsheng replied, his voice grave.
"Small sects, indeed, small sects have a tough time surviving."
Qiu Changtai looked at the elders of both sects, who were all vigilant and watching him closely, and he chuckled softly.
"If you look at people with such eyes, you might find trouble."
Qiu Changtai's smile suddenly vanished, and his tone turned icy. Although he hadn't fully displayed his peak Aperture Tempering realm aura, a chilling atmosphere permeated the hall.
Some of the elders with lower cultivation levels felt a shiver in their hearts, as if a tremendous danger had suddenly enveloped them, making even their breathing a bit difficult.
"We simply don't know the purpose of Your Excellency's visit today!" Qu Qingsheng took a step forward, and the Primordial Sword Scripture continued to circulate, resisting the mental intimidation from Qiu Changtai.
"Seeing a sect arrive at this deserted island naturally piqued my curiosity," Qiu Changtai glanced at Qu Qingsheng and then looked at the center of the main hall, continuing, "I had originally planned to come today to witness your great skills, but it seems unnecessary now."
His words were laced with sarcasm, but none of the elders from both sects spoke up. With a cultivation level at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, he indeed had the qualifications to say such things.
"You'll have to forgive me for disappointing you!" Qu Qingsheng said, his heart slightly relieved, as he gestured with a polite hand.
"I have a habit, wherever I go, I like to take something as a memento."
Qiu Changtai, with his back turned to Qu Qingsheng, pointed towards a statue in front of the main hall and said, "That sword will do. I'll take it."
The entire hall suddenly fell silent, and then the aura of the Primordial Sword Sect members fluctuated.
This statue was of the founder of the Primordial Sword Sect, although it wasn't the same one that was originally at the mountain gate of Immortal Cloud City. After the sect relocated to the Boundless Sea, it was impractical to carry such a heavy statue around. Therefore, this statue had been carved anew by skilled craftsmen after they arrived on Primordial Water Island.
The statue might have been new, but the sword wasn't. That sword was the very spiritual sword used by the founder of the Primordial Sword Sect in his youth. Over the years, however, the sword's power had greatly diminished.
Yet, this sword was the spiritual pillar of the entire Primordial Sword Sect. Even during the sect's greatest calamity in the past, this sword had been preserved by sheer determination.
For a sect, there were certain things that were absolutely irreplaceable, and one of them was their spiritual faith. Just like a martial artist who needed a certain resolve and pursuit in their heart, a sect needed its own spiritual foundation to thrive.
What Qiu Changtai wanted to do by taking away this sword was nothing short of severing the Primordial Sword Sect's spiritual backbone.
Qu Qingsheng had considered various demands that Qiu Changtai might make, such as offering resources, and he could have agreed to those. After all, as long as the people were intact, the future held possibilities, just as they had moved to the Boundless Sea from afar.
However, Qu Qingsheng had never imagined that Qiu Changtai would attempt to castrate their sect's spirit.
If this sword were to be taken from here today, the Primordial Sword Sect would seem to suffer no loss on the surface, but its entire spiritual essence would be destroyed.
To subjugate someone, one began by mentally subduing, mutilating, and annihilating them, making them forget how to resist. Afterward, everything they did would seem perfectly reasonable.
"Sorry, we cannot agree to this request!" Qu Qingsheng looked at Qiu Changtai and said firmly.
"It's just a sword," Lou Sanfeng glanced at Qu Qingsheng and casually remarked, "Don't deceive yourself."
"Yes, it's just a sword," Qiu Changtai turned to face Qu Qingsheng, his hands behind his back, and said, "Then please make another request."
"Please, come up with another request," Qu Qingsheng said in a deep voice..
Chapter 448: Bow Down
"Forgive me for not being able to accede to that request!" Qu Qingsheng's expression was solemn.
If even the ancestral master's sword and spiritual faith could be abandoned, then in the future, when Qiu Changtai returned to the Primordial Sword Sect and made any demands, the Primordial Sword Sect would probably comply.
Qiu Changtai seemed to make a small request today, but it was just the beginning. His ultimate goal was to exploit the entire Primordial Sword Sect at will.
People were like this, they got used to things, and then they became numb. Maybe there would be anger at the moment, but as long as they endured and convinced themselves a little, things could pass.
As long as heads didn't roll immediately, it seemed that everything could be negotiated, agreed upon, and given.
Qu Qingsheng had been the head of the Primordial Sword Sect for so many years, how could he not understand such things?
If he accepted Qiu Changtai's request today, the Primordial Sword Sect would truly be in jeopardy, becoming a tool for Qiu Changtai to arbitrarily exploit, and this was almost an inevitable outcome.
The Primordial Sword Sect would be truly ruined!
"People must know how to assess the situation, and a sect even more so."
Qiu Changtai looked at Qu Qingsheng's expression and smiled softly, saying, "If you expect the Thousand Feathers Alliance to shelter you, then you might be disappointed."
Qu Qingsheng didn't say anything. He naturally knew that in disputes among the various forces within the alliance, the Thousand Feathers Alliance would not get too involved.
"Where there are people, there will inevitably be disputes. Amongst factions, it's even more so.
Within the Thousand Feathers Alliance, with so many factions, as long as it doesn't escalate to the extent of annihilating a sect, the Thousand Feathers Alliance will hardly intervene. Of course, if it's outside the alliance and someone comes to bully, that's a different matter.
Qiu Changtai has spent many years in the Thousand Feathers Alliance, so he naturally understands these internal rules very clearly. Otherwise, he wouldn't have just walked right in after figuring out the strengths of the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion.
In Qiu Changtai's mind, he had long considered the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion as his playthings, something he could manipulate as he pleased.
In his true intentions, Qiu Changtai didn't want to kill the goose that laid the golden eggs, to exterminate both sects completely. After all, in his view, these two sects could still provide him with plenty of resources in the future.
If he wiped out everyone, then even if he took over these two sects, it wouldn't mean much.
How to subjugate a sect, make them dare not speak out and obediently follow his orders – this was something Qiu Changtai had become extremely proficient at.
Seeing Qu Qingsheng's lack of response, the smile gradually faded from Qiu Changtai's face, and his expression turned grim.
For factions that were unwilling to comply, Qiu Changtai naturally had methods to deal with them. The simplest one was to strike them hard, to make them realize the reality of the situation.
Stubborn factions – Qiu Changtai had encountered plenty, and after giving them a good beating, they naturally understood how things should be done!" "Is this the expression you all have when you intend to make a move?"
Lou Sanfeng looked at Qu Qingsheng, then glanced at the others, sneering.
Qiu Changtai didn't say anything, but the aura of a Pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator had already filled the hall. The hearts of everyone in the hall couldn't help but sink, as if there was a sharp sword pointing at their eyeballs right now.
That visible threat made their nerves instantly tense.
The power of the Pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, both the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion understood very clearly. Back in Immortal Cloud City, they had witnessed the Pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivators of the Immortal Cloud Sword Sect make their moves more than once.
Because of this understanding, they also knew just how great the crisis they were facing at this moment truly was.
Although they were both in the Aperture Tempering realm, their strengths were simply not on the same level.
Martial cultivation worked this way, step by step, and each step was enough to see more scenery and increase one's strength significantly.
"We have no intention of being your enemies," Qu Qingsheng shook his head.
"But you are making things difficult for us right now," Lou Sanfeng squinted her eyes.
"You have misunderstood," Qu Qingsheng said softly.
Lou Sanfeng waved her hand, interrupting Qu Qingsheng, and said, "It's just a sword that neither of you is willing to give up. We didn't originally intend for bloodshed today, but if you have this attitude, then we might have to reconsider!"
Qu Qingsheng remained silent, not saying a word. Zhou Zixuan and Ji Ruiqing did the same because this was their bottom line, and once it was crossed, there would be no more bottom line left.
"Have you considered it carefully?" Qiu Changtai looked around. Aside from one or two individuals with uncertain expressions, the rest appeared resolute, which surprised him somewhat.
These two sects that had been brought into the Thousand Feathers Alliance from outside were a bit unexpected. However, it was only a minor surprise. Under the might of thunderous methods, everything could be set right.
Qiu Changtai was actually looking forward to injuring or even killing a few people later. Only then would these individuals truly be frightened and eventually submit!
"I kindly request you to change your demand," Qu Qingsheng said firmly, making his intention very clear.
"Hahaha, alright, since you're so determined, then don't blame me."
Qiu Changtai burst into hearty laughter, and the resounding sound echoed throughout the hall. Those in the early Aperture Tempering realm cultivators couldn't help but show a painful expression on their faces.
The laughter seemed like a bewitching melody, resonating in their minds, making their thoughts as fragile as a lone boat in a turbulent sea, constantly on the brink of capsizing.
The nerves of Qu Qingsheng and the other two instantly tightened, and they watched Qiu Changtai with caution.
"Let my husband take action; it's somewhat unfair to bully you like this. To make you truly acknowledge defeat, let me spar with you for a few moves."
Lou Sanfeng's figure swayed as she appeared before Qu Qingsheng and the others, and the aura of an advanced Aperture Tempering realm cultivator suddenly surged.
Compared to Qiu Changtai, Lou Sanfeng's aura was undoubtedly weaker, but in the advanced Aperture Tempering realm, Lou Sanfeng was unquestionably one of the top figures.
The number of apertures opened upwards, this kind of cultivation method, in the advanced Aperture Tempering realm, was already at the very top level.
As for rogue cultivators, they rarely had the opportunity to come into contact with such techniques. Many small sects didn't possess methods of this caliber, just like the earlier Primordial Sword Sect.
Even the current Sunken Water Pavilion, with its most powerful internal techniques, only had nearly a hundred apertures.
"Don't say we didn't give you a chance. If any of you can defeat my wife, then today's matter will be considered over," Qiu Changtai said casually, with his hands behind his back. Dealing with advanced Aperture Tempering realm cultivators was too easy for Qiu Changtai, not something that piqued his interest.
In Qiu Changtai's eyes, with his wife Lou Sanfeng's strength, defeating these individuals would be a piece of cake.
However, if these people remained stubborn at that point, Qiu Changtai would undoubtedly take drastic measures. He had already given them one chance, and if they didn't appreciate it, there would be no need for them to remain alive.
Qu Qingsheng, Zhou Zixuan, and Ji Ruiqing exchanged glances, and Zhou Zixuan took a step forward, arriving in front of Lou Sanfeng.
"Zhou Zixuan of the Primordial Sword Sect, please instruct me!" Zhou Zixuan held a spiritual sword and spoke in a deep voice.
"Lou Sanfeng of the Xuanhe Palace, please!"
A dagger appeared in Lou Sanfeng's hand, and her entire presence suddenly intensified, sharp and penetrating, leaving no room for evasion, no object uncut!
With a low shout, Zhou Zixuan's slightly hunched back instantly straightened, and he stepped forward, arriving in front of Lou Sanfeng in an instant, striking with his sword.
One-way journey with no return, embracing death to find life, when Zhou Zixuan's sword was unleashed, a tragic and heroic aura suddenly filled the surroundings. The disdain in Lou Sanfeng's eyes diminished somewhat with Zhou Zixuan's strike, but only slightly.
The Giant Spirit Sword, a technique that Zhou Zixuan had dedicated his entire life to cultivating. He had poured all his energy into this legacy. Initially, Zhou Zixuan even wanted to use the Giant Spirit Sword as a foundation to forge a new path. However, he fell short of his aspirations, failing in the end.
But his dedication and focus on the Giant Spirit Sword were unparalleled. Even Chen Fei, who had mastered the Giant Spirit Sword to its pinnacle, would likely find it hard to compare to Zhou Zixuan in terms of devotion.
Because of his focus, he had grown to love it, and because of his love, he had delved deep into its intricacies.
When Zhou Zixuan's sword struck, it was as if a true Giant Spirit Celestial God stood behind him, infusing tremendous power into his body. Wherever the blade passed, the air was filled with countless ripples.
"Boom!"
The explosion resounded, and the formation within the main hall suddenly rose to block the shockwaves of the battle.
Lou Sanfeng held her dagger with one arm, parrying Zhou Zixuan's attack. Her body remained motionless, and the mighty force imbued in the Giant Spirit Sword seemed to lose its luster before her.
A dagger, a weapon for close-quarters combat, usually had its strength diminished when used at a distance.
However, the dagger in Lou Sanfeng's hand effortlessly withstood Zhou Zixuan's attack.
Veins slowly bulged on Zhou Zixuan's forehead, but no matter how hard he exerted himself, the blade in his hand couldn't press down Lou Sanfeng's dagger even a bit.
"Not a bad move, but it lacks a bit of depth," Lou Sanfeng casually commented.
Zhou Zixuan remained silent, took a deep breath, and suddenly a black glow appeared on the blade. A force field emerged around him, pressing down on Lou Sanfeng's body.
Zhongyuan Sword!
Ever since Chen Fei retrieved the first two levels of the Primordial Sword Scripture from the ancestral grounds of the Long Rainbow Sect, Zhou Zixuan had been diligently practicing.
Zhou Zixuan wasn't seeking to push his own limits on the path of martial arts in the future. His previous attempt to break through the Combined Aperture Tempering realm with his advanced Aperture Tempering realm cultivation had already damaged his foundation.
Zhou Zixuan's hard work in practicing the Primordial Sword Scripture and various legacies was solely for the sake of being able to step forward and protect the Primordial Sword Sect when it faced crises.
Born into the Primordial Sword Sect, Zhou Zixuan had vowed from a young age to stand by the sect through thick and thin. This was his determination, and he had been consistently acting upon it.
Over these past years, leveraging his advanced Aperture Tempering realm foundation, Zhou Zixuan had finally reached the pinnacle of Zhongyuan Sword. He had fused the Zhongyuan Sword into his core foundation, based on the Giant Spirit Sword.
As the Zhongyuan Sword was unleashed, a harsh grating sound echoed where Zhou Zixuan's sword clashed with Lou Sanfeng's dagger. Lou Sanfeng's relaxed expression became slightly more serious..
Chapter 449: Wilful
Lou Sanfeng did not expect that the old man in front of her, who appeared to be nearing the end of his life, would still possess such power.
If Zhou Zixuan's aperture cultivation at this moment was also above a hundred, coupled with his current sword technique, the outcome of this strike would probably have many more variables.
However, in all matters, there are no "ifs." It is what it is, and there's no changing that fact.
Although Zhou Zixuan had perfected the Zhongyuan Sword to its peak, the number of his apertures hadn't changed much in recent years. Now, he possessed exquisite swordsmanship, but lacked the necessary cultivation to support it, which was truly regrettable.
Within Lou Sanfeng's body, the Suspended Water Technique surged like a torrent, and a terrifying power instantly spread throughout her entire body.
The location where the accessories and the dagger had clashed just a moment ago had been vibrating intensely. However, as Lou Sanfeng exerted the Suspended Water Technique with all her might, it suddenly calmed down.
The elders of the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion watched as Zhou Zixuan's aura soared, as if he were about to annihilate Lou Sanfeng right in front of him.
But as Lou Sanfeng's aura rose, the illusion that they could win vanished. Zhou Zixuan's aura remained suppressed, but in front of Lou Sanfeng, it somehow seemed lacking.
It was this slight deficiency that made Zhou Zixuan's strong aura appear as if it were a castle in the air, not grounded in reality.
"Boom!"
With Lou Sanfeng's shout, the dagger in his hand lifted and, despite Zhou Zixuan's continuous attempts to push it down, Lou Sanfeng easily swept it aside.
Zhou Zixuan involuntarily slammed into the wall, causing the main hall's formation to tremble continuously. A spray of blood escaped from Zhou Zixuan's lips as he slid down from the wall, half-kneeling on the ground.
In a clash of skills, a clear victor emerged.
Lou Sanfeng chuckled, her figure flashed, and he appeared in front of Zhou Zixuan. The dagger in her hand, like the antlers of a deer, pierced towards Zhou Zixuan's neck.
With a low roar, Zhou Zixuan's sword began to vigorously retract the power of the Giant Spirit Sword and the Zhongyuan Sword, condensing it solely onto the tip of the blade.
Zhou Zixuan raised his head and thrust the sword towards Lou Sanfeng's head, disregarding Lou Sanfeng's attack.
Every inch counts in strength, and every inch short poses danger. Although Lou Sanfeng initiated the attack earlier, her dagger's reach was shorter. Judging from the situation, it seemed that both their attacks would land simultaneously on each other.
"Heh!"
Understanding Zhou Zixuan's plan, Lou Sanfeng sneered and suddenly shook her entire body. In an impossible instant, her entire figure seemed to teleport half a step forward.
"Ah!"
Qiu Qingsheng, watching from a distance, sighed deeply. There was such a significant difference in their cultivation levels. In terms of techniques, the subtleties of the Suspended Water Technique couldn't be forcefully surpassed just by merging the two techniques of the Primordial Sword Sect. In this battle, the outcome had already been determined to some extent. The remaining factors were that Lou Sanfeng had vast combat experience and displayed no less than Zhou Zixuan in battle. These remaining factors were insufficient to change the outcome.
"Boom!"
Lou Sanfeng's dagger pierced Zhou Zixuan's sword, and realizing the hopelessness of the situation, Zhou Zixuan could only helplessly defend.
However, as this thrust landed, even though the spiritual sword provided some resistance, a terrifying force still penetrated through it and reached Zhou Zixuan's body.
Zhou Zixuan once again crashed harshly into the wall, accompanied by the sound of bones breaking. He collapsed to the ground, seriously injured and unconscious.
The elders from the two sects watching from afar felt a sinking feeling in their hearts. Both were at the late aperture cultivation stage, yet Zhou Zixuan had only exchanged three moves with Lou Sanfeng.
If even those at the late aperture cultivation stage were struggling like this, what about those at the mid or early stages of Aperture Tempering realm cultivation? Would they be easy prey for Lou Sanfeng?
Qiu Changtai watched Lou Sanfeng's performance and nodded slightly.
Several tens of miles away on Primordial Water Island, Chen Fei's figure was almost like a blur, and the sound of his breaking through the air echoed in all directions.
Chen Fei glanced down at the messaging jade stone in his hand. There were no more messages coming through it now. However, he couldn't relax because he didn't know if this meant the danger was over or if Qiu Qingsheng simply couldn't put his energy into the messaging jade stone anymore.
With a solemn expression, Chen Fei looked in the direction of Primordial Water Island. He needed just a bit more time, only a little more!
Inside the main hall of the Primordial Sword Sect,
Lou Sanfeng glanced at Zhou Zixuan with a contemptuous smile, then turned back to his original position and looked towards Qiu Qingsheng and Ji Ruiqing. "Who among you two will go first?"
"Ji Ruiqing of the Sunken Water Pavilion, please enlighten me!"
Qiu Qingsheng was about to step forward, but Ji Ruiqing had already taken the initiative.
The elders of the Sunken Water Pavilion saw their sect leader stepping forward, and their hearts immediately tightened. In this battle, the Sunken Water Pavilion would inevitably be involved.
However, as they looked at the dominant Lou Sanfeng in the distance, they couldn't help but feel nervous.
"Go ahead!" Lou Sanfeng looked at Ji Ruiqing, whose elegance still remained, and raised her dagger slightly.
Ji Ruiqing remained calm, her footwork resembling a stroll of a blue lotus. She gracefully appeared in front of Lou Sanfeng, and the blade of her sword quietly moved towards Lou Sanfeng.
The Sunken Water Technique, the foundational technique of the Sunken Water Pavilion. Compared to the majestic and forceful Suspended Water Technique, the Sunken Water Technique leaned more towards gentleness and entanglement.
"Clang!"
The spiritual sword and the dagger collided, producing a clanging sound. Ji Ruiqing's figure stepped back half a step, leaving behind an illusory body formed from elemental energy in her original position.
This illusory body couldn't withstand the immense force of Lou Sanfeng's dagger. It trembled for a moment and then dissipated directly. With the release of this illusory body, the exchange of blows from earlier had left Ji Ruiqing completely unharmed.
"Not bad!" There was a slight change in Lou Sanfeng's expression.
Having practiced the Suspended Water Technique, a technique that could open up 108 apertures, Lou Sanfeng had naturally set his sights high. Both Zhou Zixuan's technique from earlier and what Ji Ruiqing was displaying now had impressed him.
However, these two individuals were still weaker in cultivation.
When practitioners of the same level had weaker cultivation and their techniques couldn't surpass their opponent's in subtlety, there was only one possible outcome in a fight – victory for the one with the higher cultivation.
The only difference was who could secure victory within a few moves.
Lou Sanfeng lowered her body and seemingly teleported in front of Ji Ruiqing. Her dagger rapidly thrust out, and in the blink of an eye, Ji Ruiqing was faced with a multitude of sharp and chilling glimmers.
Can she handle the force?
Lou Sanfeng was curious to see if Ji Ruiqing could successfully deflect the power of her attacks each time.
Ji Ruiqing's expression grew solemn as she moved her sword. All the attacks coming her way seemed to slow down.
"Clang, clang, clang!"
The sharp clashes of blades filled the air. In just a few exchanges, Ji Ruiqing's complexion turned slightly pale.
The Sunken Water Technique was meant for defense and utilizing the opponent's force against them. However, with Lou Sanfeng's continuous attacks, Ji Ruiqing could only exhaust herself in defense. Even attempting to muster any strength for counterattacks became an impossible task.
As the short-range combat continued, the formidable force attached to the Suspended Water Technique kept accumulating on Ji Ruiqing's body. Trying to unload the force with the Water Element Illusion Body of the Sunken Water Technique became increasingly difficult. Even the flow of elemental energy started to be affected.
Lou Sanfeng sensed Ji Ruiqing's predicament and a slight smile curled at the corner of his mouth. His attack frequency increased rapidly.
In the tenth exchange, Ji Ruiqing's Water Element Illusion Body couldn't withstand the force and shattered. The condensed force dispersed in all directions, and Ji Ruiqing took several steps back.
With each step, Ji Ruiqing left deep craters in the ground as she channeled the force that had attached itself to her into her feet. If she didn't unload the force, she felt like her internal organs would be crushed.
"Snick!"
Lou Sanfeng's blade tore through the Water Element force in front of him and swiftly appeared in front of Ji Ruiqing. Her dagger thrust out, and the force of the Suspended Water Technique completely concentrated at the tip of the dagger.
Ji Ruiqing had no choice but to block with her spiritual sword in front of her.
"Boom!"
Ji Ruiqing's spiritual sword struck her own body, and the tearing and crushing force spread throughout her. She sprayed a mist of blood and crashed heavily onto the ground in the distance.
Ji Ruiqing's head lifted slightly, and her cheeks were covered in countless scars, as if she had been mercilessly slashed a thousand times. Another spray of blood mist erupted from her mouth, and her head thudded onto the ground with a dull sound.
"Sect Leader!"
Elders from the Sunken Water Pavilion rushed to Ji Ruiqing's side, helping her up. They looked at the numerous wounds on her face, clearly inflicted deliberately by Lou Sanfeng.
Someone glared at Lou Sanfeng with anger, but then they emitted a muffled groan, blood streaming from their seven orifices, their mental state directly shattered as they fell to the ground.
Lou Sanfeng sneered. Who dared to glare at her?
"Qiu Qingsheng of the Primordial Sword Sect, please enlighten me!" Qiu Qingsheng stepped forward with a solemn tone.
"You're the last one standing. After I'm done with you, let's see if there's anyone else with the courage to step forward." Lou Sanfeng looked at the elders of the Primordial Sword Sect and chuckled softly.
Qiu Qingsheng remained silent, swiftly appearing in front of Lou Sanfeng, and thrusting his sword.
The powers of the Zhongyuan Sword, the Giant Spirit Sword, and the Blade-Slaying Sword were unleashed from Qiu Qingsheng's hands. While the Blade-Slaying Sword hadn't reached its peak, and the time spent with it was relatively short, the amalgamation of these three techniques undoubtedly gave Qiu Qingsheng more strength compared to Zhou Zixuan.
"Not bad at all!" Lou Sanfeng nodded slightly as she sensed Qiu Qingsheng's strike. She was about to make her move when she suddenly felt a lack of elemental energy within her body. She raised her head and noticed a tower-shaped spiritual weapon in Qiu Qingsheng's hand.
The Soul-Locking Tower!
"What a splendid spiritual weapon!"
Qiu Changtai's voice suddenly rang out, and the Soul-Locking Tower trembled slightly. The sealing power was suddenly cracked open.
Lou Sanfeng once again felt the elemental energy in her body. Her eyes showed a mix of anger and embarrassment. The Suspended Water Technique reversed unexpectedly, and her strength swelled.
"Boom!"
Every fiber of Qiu Qingsheng's being quivered as his internal organs were instantly crushed by tremendous force. He couldn't control his body anymore and staggered backward step by step.
"Boom!"
Lou Sanfeng followed, her dagger sweeping past, and Qiu Qingsheng was sent flying into the midst of the Primordial Sword Sect's disciples. Many of them, attempting to catch him, were all struck by the tremendous force, spitting out blood as they were knocked over.
Qiu Qingsheng strained to lift his head and looked at Qiu Changtai, who had a smile on his face.
"It seems that the outcome is already decided. This sword belongs to me after all!" Qiu Changtai walked step by step toward the statue, speaking in a leisurely manner.
"What sword belongs to you?"
Amidst a fierce gust of wind, a figure appeared in the hall..
Chapter 450: So What?
Translator. Dragon Boat Translation I Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Qiu Changtai's footsteps suddenly halted, and he turned to look at Chen Fei, his expression becoming grave.
At the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, the aura emanating from Chen Fei at this moment was as complete as it could be, with all 108 acupoints connected. This was the only way to possess such an aura.
How could the Primordial Sword Sect have a martial artist at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm?
Before this, Qiu Changtai had ordered people to investigate both the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion. The information he had gathered indicated that these two sects were the strongest, but only in the advanced Aperture Tempering realm. Even within that late stage, they were not considered particularly formidable.
Because of this, Qiu Changtai had brought only Lou Sanfeng with him, approaching the Primordial Water Island with an almost casual attitude, as if going for a leisurely outing. With his power, he could easily suppress both sects without any unexpected incidents.
However, the person who had suddenly appeared before him, who was he?
"Chen Fei!"
Upon seeing Chen Fei's sudden appearance, Qu Qingsheng's face was filled with anxiety. However, this anxious expression quickly froze, because Chen Fei's current aura was too obvious.
It was the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, Chen Fei had broken through to the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm?
Hadn't they still not recovered the Primordial Sword Body? How did Chen Fei break through to the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm? And wasn't it just one year since Chen Fei had broken through to the advanced Aperture Tempering realm?
in one year, from entering the advanced Aperture Tempering realm to now having all 108 acupoints fully connected, this speed of cultivation seemed a bit too exaggerated.
Qu Qingsheng's mind was spinning, and not only him, but all the elders of the Primordial Sword Sect were somewhat at a loss due to Chen Fei's aura.
The Primordial Sword Sect was no exception, and neither was the Sunken
Water Pavilion nearby.
Because Chen Fei's appearance had caused quite a commotion, he had now become the center of attention.
Chen Fei nodded to many of the elders of the Primordial Sword Sect, then bent down to examine Qu Qingsheng's injuries. They were severe, but fortunately, most of the power had been absorbed by the Soul-Locking Tower, so it wasn't life-threatening.
"Are you also a member of the Primordial Sword Sect?" Qiu Changtai looked at
Chen Fei and spoke in a deep voice.
Chen Fei didn't reply, and he didn't even spare a glance at Qiu Changtai.
Instead, he approached Zhou Zixun.
Compared to Qu Qingsheng, Zhou Zixun's injuries were much more severe, and because Zhou Zixun's lifespan was limited to begin with, his injuries were deteriorating rapidly.
Chen Fei quickly took out a bottle of elixir from his sleeve and poured it into Zhou Zixun's mouth. It was the same healing elixir he had obtained at the
Sword Return Tower.
The effect of this elixir was truly extraordinary. As the elixir entered Zhou Zixun's body, his aura immediately stabilized to some extent. It was no wonder that he had sacrificed so much to obtain this elixir back at the Sword Return
Tower.
Feng Xiupu was standing next to Zhou Zixun at this moment, casting a glance at Qiu Changtai in the distance and then at Chen Fei. His eyes revealed a hint of concern.
Feng Xiupu had naturally sensed Chen Fei's aura at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm at this moment.
In his heart, he was proud and pleased that Chen Fei had broken through to the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm. However, at the same time, he still had concerns. These concerns naturally stemmed from Qiu Changtai.
Although both were at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, it was clear that Chen Fei had just entered this stage. Whether he could compete with Qiu Changtai was still an unknown factor.
However, judging from Chen Fei's cold and unresponsive attitude towards Qiu Changtai, it was evident that he had no intention of letting Qiu Changtai leave this place.
If possible, Feng Xiupu naturally hoped to keep Qiu Changtai and Lou Sanfeng here. After all, they had brutally injured three people in succession without any restraint, which could be seen as a flagrant violation of their territory.
But the safer course of action for now might be to temporarily halt this situation, allowing Chen Fei to fully adapt to the power of the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm before making the next move.
Although this approach might seem timid, sometimes it was the most prudent
one.
However, Feng Xiupu didn't voice his thoughts. He no longer had the authority to make decisions; the real decision-making power lay in Chen Fei's hands.
■Isn't your attitude a bit too disrespectful?" Qiu Changtai, seeing that Chen Fei hadn't responded to his words, adopted a colder tone. Both of them were at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, and when one questions you, not even a response? This was provocation!
■Have you thought about how you'll die later?" Chen Fei stood up, glanced at Qiu Changtai, and then went to stand in front of Ji Ruiqing. The members of the Sunken Water Pavilion made way for him, and Chen Fei also noticed Ji
Ruiqing's pitiful state.
Her entire body seemed to have been tortured, her injuries deliberately inflicted. This kind of injury was undoubtedly intentional. When Ji Ruiqing saw Chen Fei, her eyes turned bloodshot.
"How arrogant!" Lou Sanfeng heard what Chen Fei said to Qiu Changtai and immediately roared in anger. Both were practitioners with 108 fully opened acupoints, both at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, and they dared to exchange such words.
"You must have recently broken through to the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, haven't you? Do you know that even among those at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, there are still significant differences?" Qiu Changtai, upon hearing Chen Fei's words, laughed in anger. Chen Fei's current aura was still somewhat delicate, and there were differences in their auras compared to someone like him who had reached the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm after many years of cultivation.
To dare to speak arrogantly of causing his death right after breaking through? How laughable!
It was as if he were an ignorant frog at the bottom of a well!
Chen Fei stood up without responding to Qiu Changtai's words and turned his gaze towards Lou Sanfeng.
"They were all injured by you, right?" Chen Fei's voice sounded somewhat deep, devoid of emotion. But Lou Sanfeng suddenly felt a terrifying pressure enveloping him, and her face changed.
"What if they were!" Lou Sanfeng looked at Chen Fei and laughed sharply. Her husband had broken through to the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm after many years, and Lou Sanfeng wasn't afraid of Chen Fei's gaze. At most, achieving today's goal might be a bit challenging.
"As long as you admit it!" Chen Fei's voice fell, and he appeared in front of Lou Sanfeng, grabbing for her throat.
"Insolence!" Qiu Changtai shouted angrily. He had not expected that the other party would be so bold as to lay hands on Lou Sanfeng in his presence.
Qiu Changtai, like a phantom, appeared beside Chen Fei, slashing towards his head with a blade. It seemed that Qiu Changtai wanted to see how the opponent would react to his attack on his wife, Lou Sanfeng, under his assault.
Lou Sanfeng had initially been pale from being overwhelmed by Chen Fei's aura. However, when she saw Qiu Changtai taking action, her confidence surged back. The Suspended Water Technique within her body reversed once again, and she thrust her dagger towards Chen Fei's eyeball.
Lou Sanfeng wanted to see how Chen Fei, a newly advanced martial artist at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm, would respond under the combined attack of two opponents.
Would he panic, get injured, or even sustain severe injuries?
"Boom!"
The entire hall trembled violently, and the formation was unable to resist such a force, even though it was just a residual shockwave.
The body of the Qianyuan Sword effortlessly blocked Qiu Changtai's blade, while Chen Fei's other hand, like a skilled butcher, followed the seams of elemental energy and cut into the weak point of Lou Sanfeng's dagger, directly snapping her right hand.
"Ahh!"
Lou Sanfeng's dagger fell to the ground with a crisp sound, and she cried out in pain.
"How dare you!"
Qiu Changtai, witnessing his wife's injury, erupted in anger, and his Suspended Water Technique abruptly reversed, causing his entire body's power to surge.
Compared to Lou Sanfeng's "Sunken Water Jue," Qiu Changtai's was undoubtedly more refined and precise, having complete control over every ounce of power within his body.
Even when reversing the Suspended Water Technique and surging with increased power, Qiu Changtai could maintain full control without leaking a fraction of it, allowing him to unleash this power to its fullest.
Qiu Changtai raised the blade in his hand high once more and chopped down towards Chen Fei's head, as if he intended to split Chen Fei into two halves.
Inside the hall, everyone else was fixated on the scene before them. As Qiu Changtai's aura surged, dominating the surroundings, everyone's hearts were on edge.
Qu Qingsheng supported his body, and at this moment, Qiu Changtai's displayed power was not the least bit inferior to the former head of the Immortal Cloud Sword Sect. In certain aspects, it was even more ruthless.
"Clang!"
The Qianyuan Sword once again stood before Qiu Changtai. Its blade was as stable as a rock, and even though Qiu Changtai's strike was much stronger than before, it seemed to have no effect on Chen Fei.
Qiu Changtai's eyes involuntarily widened. A strike reversing the Suspended Water Technique could easily slay any advanced Aperture Tempering realm practitioner, even those at the peak. Qiu Changtai had once directly injured someone with the same cultivation level in the past.
However, at this moment, such a strike couldn't even budge the opponent's sword?
"Snap!"
Just as Lou Sanfeng had yelled out in pain due to her right hand being crushed, she suddenly felt a sharp pain on her cheek. Then, half of her face went numb.
In the midst of the chaos, Lou Sanfeng hadn't yet processed what happened when she suddenly felt a severe pain on the other side of her cheek. Then, her entire face lost all sensation.
However, in the midst of this, Lou Sanfeng faintly felt that her mouth was filled with something fragmented, like broken teeth?
"Boom!"
Lou Sanfeng collapsed to the ground, and her entire skeletal structure emitted the sound of breaking. This impact finally brought Lou Sanfeng's consciousness back, and she became aware of her condition.
Both sides of her cheeks could no longer feel anything, and her mouth was filled with broken teeth. At the same time, her internal organs seemed to have been crushed, displaying cracks.
What made it even more agonizing was that despite these injuries, Lou Sanfeng didn't lose consciousness. She remained painfully alert, acutely aware of all the changes and every bit of suffering her body was enduring.
"Ahh!"
Lou Sanfeng let out a wild scream, as if only by doing so could she vent the terror in her heart.
Where was her husband? Why didn't he save her? Why was she subjected to such injuries!
In the blink of an eye, everything had happened. After Qiu Changtai's attack was blocked by Chen Fei, Lou Sanfeng ended up in her current state.
"Ah, fuck you!"
Seeing the state of his wife, Qiu Changtai's eyes turned bloodshot instantly. All 108 acupoints quivered, and the Suspended Water Technique split into two streams of elemental energy, one forward and one reversed.
These two streams of elemental energy entangled and crushed each other, causing Qiu Changtai to feel as if he was about to split apart. A horrifying power surged within him.
The Suspended Water Yin Yang Profound, a forbidden technique from the Suspended Water Technique, had crossed Qiu Changtai's mind as something he might use one day. However, he had never anticipated using this technique against a martial artist of the same level.
"Roar!"
Chen Fei turned to look at Qiu Changtai, and the sound of a roaring dragon and elephant erupted from within him. The Primordial Sword Scripture manifested as pure black energy on the Qianyuan Sword.
"Boom!"
A tremendous force directly shattered the formation, creating a gap in the main hall's roof. Amidst the swirling dust, a figure was violently flung out, crashing to the ground and rolling dozens of times before finally coming to a halt. It was none other than Qiu Changtai.
Chen Fei slowly walked over and stood in front of Qiu Changtai.
An Aperture Tempering realm peak practitioner who couldn't even make it onto the Hidden Dragon and Young Phoenix Ranking was only worthy of one move from Chen Fei!
Chapter 451: The Butcher
Luo Sanfeng was originally screaming, but at this moment, she couldn't help but stop.
Although at this moment, Luo Sanfeng's eyes were blinded by the two slaps from Chen Fei, her spiritual perception still existed.
Therefore, Luo Sanfeng immediately noticed that her husband's breath had greatly diminished, a situation that could only result from a severe injury.
Clearly, he had just unleashed the Suspended Water Yin Yang Profound and Luo Sanfeng herself had practiced the Suspended Water Technique, so she naturally understood the kind of power this forbidden technique would possess when activated.
But now, Qiu Changtai had been severely injured by a single move. This shocked Luo Sanfeng and made her realize the current situation between the two of them.
She had initially been blaming Qiu Changtai for not saving her just now, but now she realized that it wasn't that Qiu Changtai didn't want to save her; it was that the person from the Primordial Sword Sect who had just appeared was too powerful.
So powerful that even as a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator, Qiu Changtai couldn't even withstand a single move from him.
Qiu Changtai struggled to raise his head, looking at Chen Fei with disbelief. The positive and negative elemental forces in his body had already been dispersed.
For the many years he had been a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator, Qiu Changtai had rarely been injured, let alone suffered such a serious injury.
Not far away, the people from the Primordial Sword Sect and the Sunken Water Pavilion, upon seeing the current scene, let go of all their worries and couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief.
The crisis had been easily resolved in this unexpected manner, far from what they had anticipated.
Qu Qingsheng had a few people who originally knew that Chen Fei had already reached the advanced Aperture Tempering realm in his cultivation. While they couldn't quite fathom how Chen Fei had broken through to the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm stage so quickly, at least they had some mental preparation.
But for others, in their eyes, Chen Fei had always been in the early Aperture Tempering realm, and it had only been a few years since he had advanced from the Visceral Tempering realm. Just a few years, and he had achieved this unimaginable progress, as if it were a dream.
"I surrender, I surrender!" Qiu Changtai looked at Chen Fei in front of him, clasping his hands together and shouting loudly.
Despite harboring resentment and being unable to imagine this turn of events, the current situation was clear. Qiu Changtai surrendered straightforwardly, knowing that as long as he survived, he could continue to plot revenge in the future or find other ways to achieve his goals.
"Yes, we surrender!" Luo Sanfeng, upon hearing her husband's words, also shouted loudly. It was just a matter of surrendering, nothing too serious.
"I don't accept it!" Chen Fei, listening to the words of Qiu Changtai and Luo Sanfeng, shook his head slightly and said calmly.
"If you have any demands, you can make them, and we will do our best to fulfill them!"
Qiu Changtai's eyes widened involuntarily. He had thought that by surrendering, the other party would spare him. But now, looking at Chen Fei's calm expression, his heart tightened even more.
"We are all members of the Thousand Feathers Alliance; you can't kill us!" Luo Sanfeng shouted with a trembling voice.
"You trespassed into our sect and harmed our disciples. For that, you shall die!" ♦Clang!*
As Chen Fei's words fell, the Qianyuan Sword emitted a sharp clang, striking toward Qiu Changtai's neck.
If Chen Fei hadn't returned in time, the situation here could have evolved in different ways. It's possible that everyone could have been left with severe injuries, or it might have depended on Chen Fei's intentions, whether he chose to kill more people as a warning to others.
In situations like this, where life and death hang in the balance, anything is possible.
"I've already surrendered, why are you forcing me!" Qiu Changtai, seeing Chen Fei take action, couldn't contain the resentment hidden deep in his eyes. "I've already admitted defeat, why do you have to go this far? That's just ruthless!"
The 108 aperture points within Qiu Changtai's body suddenly trembled and contracted toward the chest area. When a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator goes all out, it's slightly different from cultivators in other Aperture Tempering realms. Other Aperture Tempering realm cultivators may at most shatter their aperture points to gain immense power during the process.
But for pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivators, who are just a step away from Core Formation, they can forcibly merge their 108 aperture points. During this process, there is no real control, and the damage to the aperture points is inevitable. Therefore, this fusion is not a true breakthrough and cannot be completed in the end.
However, the brief merging of the 108 aperture points can indeed unleash unparalleled power.
Godslayer! Dream Entry!
Chen Fei sensed Qiu Changtai's movement, and the spiritual consciousness in his sea of knowledge turned into a sharp blade, piercing straight into Qiu Changtai's forehead.
At this moment, Qiu Changtai's sea of knowledge was already boiling due to the forced merging of his aperture points. The Godslayer Sword only pierced a few points before it melted away.
However, the power of the Dream Entry Technique contained within the Godslayer Sword suddenly spread out. Qiu Changtai felt a momentary daze, and the pull on his aperture points went into a chaotic frenzy.
A pain as if his body were about to be torn apart suddenly filled Qiu Changtai's mind, and he snapped back to his senses.
Forcibly merging aperture points was already fraught with danger, and this process was forcibly interrupted in an instant. Qiu Changtai found himself completely unable to control it.
Sensing the condition within his body, despair filled Qiu Changtai's eyes.
He had originally intended to cause some trouble for Chen Fei before dying, and if he had the chance, he might have briefly broken through Chen Fei's obstruction and gone on a rampage inside the hall, killing as many people as possible. If he could take a few lives, it would be a small satisfaction, and Chen Fei would surely suffer.
But now, he couldn't even break through Chen Fei's obstruction, let alone move. His aperture points had completely lost control, beyond his command.
* Swoosh!*
The Qianyuan Sword swept across Qiu Changtai's neck, and Qiu Changtai's head flew high, with an inexplicable look in his eyes. He had been hunting wild geese all his life, but in the end, he was pecked in the eye by a goose.
*Thud!*
Qiu Changtai's body crashed to the ground, making a dull sound.
"You butcher, I'll kill you!" Upon sensing Qiu Changtai's death, Luo Sanfeng cried out in alarm and lunged at Chen Fei.
To them, killing and injuring others was a matter of course, but when others used the same methods against them, it suddenly turned into a massacre.
Many people operated with this mindset – what they did was right, while any harm others caused them was premeditated and malicious. Faced with such people, there was no reasoning, only action – kill!
* Swoosh!*
A black sword aura flashed, and Luo Sanfeng's body stiffened, her voice abruptly silenced.
Throughout the entire ordeal, Chen Fei's expression remained calm. Even when he had slain a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator, he didn't display any strong emotions.
The members of the Primordial Sword Sect looked at Chen Fei with bright eyes. It had been many years since the Primordial Sword Sect had produced a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator. Since the great calamity the sect had faced in the past, the highest cultivation level within the sect had only reached the advanced Aperture Tempering realm, and they were considered relatively weaker among late Aperture Tempering realm cultivators.
As a result, the Primordial Sword Sect's influence had declined significantly, becoming an ordinary sect with limited prestige.
But today, with a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator here, they finally gained some confidence in this unfamiliar place, the Boundless Sea, and within the Thousand Feathers Alliance.
While a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator might not be considered extraordinary within the entire Thousand Feathers Alliance, it held significant value in the remote and resource-scarce region of Primordial Water Island. Being at the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm stage provided them with a strong shelter.
Moreover, considering Chen Fei's current age, already reaching the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm stage, it was reasonable to anticipate his future advancement to the Combined Aperture Tempering realm.
Some of the senior members of the Primordial Sword Sect had tears welling up in their eyes, and even Qu Qingsheng clenched his fists, finding it difficult to contain his emotions.
On the side, the Sunken Water Pavilion, while looking at Chen Fei, showed a hint of envy.
Envy was inevitable.
Chen Fei had once saved the Sunken Water Pavilion, which was one of the reasons why they had chosen to cooperate with the Primordial Sword Sect when they arrived in the Thousand Feathers Alliance, especially during the early stages of their integration.
Naturally, the Sunken Water Pavilion had also placed some bets on Chen Fei's future, believing that he was destined for greatness, given his youth.
However, they had never expected that Chen Fei's growth rate would be so astonishing. He had already reached the pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm stage, and today, he had even slain another pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator right before their eyes.
Such talent was something they had never encountered before.
Their bet on Chen Fei was likely going to pay off handsomely, and today's cooperation with the Primordial Sword Sect had added even more value to it.
One day later, Chen Fei appeared on the island where the Xuanhe Palace was located. Compared to Primordial Water Island, this place was undoubtedly more bustling.
This time, Chen Fei wasn't alone; he was accompanied by several senior members of the Primordial Sword Sect.
Wiping out an entire sect was a rare occurrence within the Thousand Feathers Alliance. However, this rarity referred to those actions done openly and boldly. If you were to accomplish such a task quietly and discreetly, hardly anyone would investigate it.
Sometimes, you wouldn't even know who to look for to inquire about such matters.
Chen Fei hadn't come here today to annihilate the entire Xuanhe Palace. Killing everyone from a sect would create too much commotion.
But Chen Fei couldn't simply let the Xuanhe Palace off the hook either. There were valuable resources hidden within the Xuanhe Palace, and Chen Fei had no reason to let them go.
One hour later, Chen Fei and his companions left the island where the Xuanhe Palace was located. The boat was loaded with numerous crates, all containing the most valuable resources from the Xuanhe Palace.
Additionally, Chen Fei obtained the sect's signature martial technique, the Suspended Water Technique.
There were some hiccups along the way, but everything was within Chen Fei's control. When your strength reached a certain level, many forms of resistance could easily be subdued.
Especially within the Xuanhe Palace, the strongest member was only at the advanced Aperture Tempering realm, posing no real challenge to Chen Fei.
During the course of this one-hour operation, most of the time was spent on infiltration and interrogation.
Chen Fei obtained what he needed, killed some individuals, and ensured that there were no remains left behind. He destroyed all traces of their presence. Many people from the Xuanhe Palace didn't even know what had happened to their sect during the recent events.
The second day brought chaos within the Xuanhe Palace, yet strangely, they couldn't find a single clue, which was the most terrifying aspect of the situation for them.
A month later, news of a pinnacle Aperture Tempering realm cultivator on Primordial Water Island quietly spread among the neighboring factions and sects..
Chapter 452: Reaching Out
Primordial Sword Sect.
Chen Fei leaned back in his chair, his fingers caressing the jade scroll in his hand. What was recorded within the jade scroll was none other than the foundational martial art of Xuanhe Palace, the Suspended Water Technique, which could directly elevate one's cultivation to the pinnacle of the Aperture Tempering realm.
This was the second martial art that Chen Fei had obtained, capable of reaching the pinnacle of the Aperture Tempering realm, apart from the Primordial Sword Scripture.
In the beginning, obtaining the Primordial Sword Scripture was a journey filled with endless hardships. In the end, he even had to rely on the spiritual treasure known as the Enlightenment Tower to finally complete the manual.
And now, similarly, a martial art that could cultivate all 108 acupoints had fallen into Chen Fei's hands so easily.
When an ordinary person wanted to earn a thousand taels, it was extremely difficult. It required every ounce of their effort to make even a slight gain.
But for martial cultivators, there were many ways to earn a thousand taels, and
they could choose freely.
Strength, that was the most obvious change brought about by one's cultivation realm!
The Suspended Water Technique was quite profound. When activated in reverse, it could directly enhance one's strength. As for its forbidden technique, the Suspended Water Yin Yang Profound, it was even more ingenious.
As for Chen Fei, he had no leisure to re-cultivate the Suspended Water Technique. Overall, the Primordial Sword Scripture was superior to the Suspended Water Technique.
However, the Suspended Water Yin Yang Profound did pique Chen Fei's interest. There were also insights recorded within on how to break through to the Combined Aperture Tempering realm, which could be quite valuable.
For Chen Fei now, the most important thing was undoubtedly breaking through to the Combined Aperture Tempering realm.
Even if he reached the pinnacle of the Aperture Tempering realm, it was still just the Aperture Tempering realm.
Although Primordial Water Island's influence had increased somewhat due to
Chen Fei's presence, in the grand scheme of things, it was limited to this sea region. Beyond this area, the impression of Primordial Water Island remained that of an insignificant land. No one cared about any changes here because it lacked important resources.
Only when a sect or power produced a Combined Aperture Tempering realm expert, would their reputation truly rise, and the neighboring sects without Combined Aperture Tempering realm experts would start paying tribute.
At that time, the entire sect would experience rapid development.
On the bed, Chi Shuqing turned over, revealing her fair back and graceful
curves.
Recently, Chi Shuqing had been staying in Chen Fei's courtyard all the time, catering to him wholeheartedly, and was no longer afraid of fainting.
It could be described as a constant struggle, with no hint of retreat.
Today, it naturally ended with her fainting again, and she was currently still asleep.
Because of Xuanhe Palace, the influence of Primordial Water Island had undergone a transformation. Inside, especially among the disciples of the Primordial Sword Sect, everyone's gaze towards Chen Fei had completely changed.
Before, Chen Fei was just a rising star, but now he was the towering tree of the Primordial Sword Sect, sheltering the entire sect.
Moreover, Chen Fei had handed over the complete Primordial Sword Scripture to the sect. If someone with enough talent appeared, they could naturally choose to cultivate the seven martial arts together.
Meanwhile, Qu Qingsheng wanted to step down and let Chen Fei directly assume the position of the head of the Primordial Sword Sect. After all, Chen Fei now had the strength and influence to do so.
However, in the end, Chen Fei politely declined Qu Qingsheng's offer. He had no interest in managing the sect; his sole focus was on improving his own strength. As long as his strength continued to grow, the Primordial Sword Sect would naturally become better.
All the administrative matters within the sect, Chen Fei didn't want to get involved in, as it would undoubtedly consume his energy. He was content with the way things were now.
Chen Fei put away the jade scroll in his hand and approached the bedside.
"Awake?" Chen Fei asked.
Chi Shuqing didn't respond, and Chen Fei smiled softly, extending his right
hand under the covers.
Time had flown by, and nearly a year had passed in the blink of an eye.
During this year, there had been no further unexpected incidents on Primordial Water Island, and the injuries of Qu Qingsheng and the other two had fully recovered. With the modest resources from Xuanhe Palace, the cultivation of individuals from both sects had begun to rapidly progress.
During this year, Chen Fei had not ventured elsewhere. Instead, he continuously gathered all 108 acupoints in his body.
With the power of both the Suppressing Dragon Elephant and the Primordial Sword Scripture, the speed at which his acupoints gathered far surpassed that of other Aperture Tempering realm experts. Moreover, as his acupoints came together, Chen Fei discovered that his strength had actually increased somewhat.
Initially, Chen Fei had always thought that once he reached the pinnacle of the Aperture Tempering realm, it would be difficult to make further progress. However, he had now discovered that as the acupoints drew closer together, the elemental power he could unleash was subtly increasing. In essence, this was a sign of the Aperture Tempering realm continuously approaching the Combined Aperture Tempering realm.
"You're going to Haiyue Cave?" Qu Qingsheng was somewhat surprised when he heard Chen Fei's words.
"Yes, back in Haiyan City, I entered the Hidden Dragon and Young Phoenix Ranking and obtained a Haiyue Token. Now that the cave mansion is about to open, I plan to visit." Chen Fei nodded.
"The Hidden Dragon and Young Phoenix Ranking!
Qu Qingsheng had never heard Chen Fei mention this before. He was well aware of the Hidden Dragon and Young Phoenix Ranking, and he didn't expect that Chen Fei had actually made it onto the list.
According to records, many of those listed had eventually become formidable
Combined Aperture Tempering realm experts.
"Be careful in everything you do!" Qu Qingsheng cautioned.
Chen Fei had now become the future of the Primordial Sword Sect. Whether it was the disciples in the Body Tempering Realm or the elders in the Aperture Tempering realm, everyone saw Chen Fei as their hope.
"Understood!"
Chen Fei smiled faintly, saluted Qu Qingsheng, and then disappeared into the main hall.
Qu Qingsheng watched Chen Fei's disappearing figure, his gaze slightly moved. Who would have thought that the ordinary disciple who had entered the sect with almost no background and spent money to join would come this far?
The rule set in place initially, where one could become an outer disciple by paying money, had been criticized by many elders within the Primordial Sword Sect. Even the neighboring sects around Immortal Cloud City had privately mocked this rule, feeling that the Primordial Sword Sect was needlessly lowering its own status.
However, Qu Qingsheng had ultimately implemented this rule to attract more talented individuals who might have been overlooked.
As a result, the Primordial Sword Sect had indeed seen some growth, but they had not recruited anyone with truly outstanding talent. After all, martial talent was something that either existed or didn't, and there were rarely any oversights in this regard.
Who would have thought that someone like Chen Fei, with such exceptional talent, would emerge?
Qu Qingsheng's most optimistic expectation couldn't have foreseen that a disciple like Chen Fei would join the Primordial Sword Sect and become its pillar.
Life was unpredictable, but it seemed like there was a certain order to things. It was said that initially, Chen Fei's first goal had been the Immortal Cloud Sword Sect, but he couldn't even reach the sect's mountain gate.
Thinking of this, Qu Qingsheng couldn't help but shake his head and smile softly.
Within dozens of miles of Primordial Water Island, Chen Fei's figure flickered. The official opening of Haiyue Cave was still about a month away, and Chen Fei had set out early to avoid any delays on the way that might prevent him from entering the cave mansion.
Whether he could obtain breakthrough pills or rare spirit materials, Chen Fei had placed all his hopes on Haiyue Cave.
As long as Chen Fei could successfully obtain these pills and spirit materials, he had confidence in breaking through to the Combined Aperture Tempering realm in a short period. Otherwise, he would have to rely on time to refine his mind and acupoints.
As for other ways to obtain these pills and materials, there were none. Without enough elemental stones, even if he staked the entire wealth of Xuanhe Palace, it wouldn't be sufficient.
Back when Qu Changtai had been scouring for resources everywhere, it was all in an effort to gather enough elemental stones to have a chance at purchasing breakthrough pills and rare spirit materials in the future. After all, relying solely on one's own resources, Qu Changtai's chances were not great.
With the power of the Suppressing Dragon Elephant and the Primordial Sword Scripture, Chen Fei's chances were significantly better, but given the choice, he naturally preferred to obtain such pills and materials.
After all, breaking through to the Combined Aperture Tempering realm was not child's play; it was entirely different from breaking through the smaller realms within the Aperture Tempering realm.
Midway through his journey, Chen Fei visited Haiyan City, where he needed to purchase a map.
While the Haiyue Token provided a rough indication, he didn't know the exact location, and Chen Fei had some uncertainties. In Haiyan City, he did indeed find the information he needed. The Haiyue Cave had already appeared and was now located in the distant Qingping Sea Region, thousands of miles away.
Many curious individuals were already heading towards that sea region to witness the spectacle.
Even though they couldn't enter the Haiyue Cave, it didn't stop people from being curious and eager to join in the excitement. Every time the Haiyue Cave opened, it was a grand event for martial practitioners below the Combined Aperture Tempering realm.
During his journey, Chen Fei took a special look at Mi Xian.
Back when Mi Xian had no cultivation at all, she was now a martial practitioner in the Skin Tempering Realm, and was very close to reaching the Flesh Tempering Realm. Clearly, Mi Xian hadn't relaxed in the past year and had been diligently cultivating.
However, in terms of innate talent, Mi Xian was indeed quite ordinary. Chen Fei didn't reveal himself and left Haiyan City directly, heading towards the Qingping Sea Region.
Several hours later, Chen Fei arrived outside Green Jade City, gazing at the distant sea mist.
The appearance of sea mist in the sea was not uncommon, but this particular mist would appear for several months at irregular intervals every year, lingering for an extended period. The safest way to navigate through this mist was by taking a boat.
Inside Green Jade City, there were specialized boats that traversed the mist. Trying to enter it alone could easily lead to getting lost.
Whenever this mist appeared, many rare spirit materials would be found within it, and there were even instances where spirit materials that could directly assist an Aperture Tempering realm expert in breaking through the pinnacle would appear.
As a result, Green Jade City had developed rapidly, and whenever the mist appeared, it became the liveliest time of the year in the city.
Chen Fei needed to pass through this area to reach the Qingping Sea Region, but he didn't intend to venture into the sea mist directly. This mist had a disorienting effect and could make one feel extremely passive inside it. While taking a boat through it could be a smooth journey and take only a day if everything went well, it could take much longer if things didn't go smoothly. Chen Fei preferred to navigate around the sea mist, even if it meant spending a few extra days.
After a brief stop in Green Jade City, Chen Fei began to skirt around the mist, making his way along its edge.
Two days later, Chen Fei suddenly stopped on the sea surface, looking somewhat puzzled in the direction of the sea mist. The acupoints in Chen Fei's body were slightly trembling.
Especially the focal point formed by the Suppressing Dragon Elephant seemed to be attracted to something..