Demonic Cultivator In Zombie World(140-145) (Patreon)

Chapter 140: Hundred Sects Alliance

"You are very... sensible," Chu Xuan said with a smile.

"Father, I've been waiting for this day!"

"Good, "Chu Xuan nodded in satisfaction. He then looked at the compass in its hand, "What is this?"

Two Arms responded earnestly, "This is the Water Divination Plate. Ever since the day my spiritual intelligence was awakened, it has been in my hand. The same goes for Four Arms's four weapons; they were with him from birth."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly.

The lifebound ghost weapons that come with ghosts from birth are usually those they had in life.

It was likely due to an obsession too pure that part of their soul condensed into the form of these ghost weapons.

Like Four Arms, Chu Xuan also effortlessly completed the spiritual imprinting.

From then on, this pair of ghosts became his ghosts.

"Go on in, there's plenty to eat inside."

With a casual wave, Chu Xuan threw Two Arms and Four Arms into the Great Soul Banner.

Though they were of strong aptitude, their level was too low to be directly thrown into the Myriad Soul Banner.

The Great Soul Banner was filled with non-aggressive souls, perfectly suitable for their meal.

"Once everything is settled, it's time to return."

Chu Xuan took out the Green Shadow Shuttle, stepped onto the wind, and vanished into the vast sky in the blink of an eye.

Days later, news of the palace attack and the mass death of superhumans stormed through like a tempest, sweeping across the land of Sunzi.

Some cheered loudly, believing that the three families—Gui, Long, and Hong—had angered the great deity Sun and brought disaster upon themselves.

Others desperately searched for the missing Eighth Prince of Sunzi, hoping to restore him and reestablish the Sunzi Imperial Family.

There were also impostors claiming to be the Eighth Prince, attempting to enter the royal household.

Chaos permeated every inch of Sunzi's land.

Endless battles spread unabated.

...

At this moment, Chu Xuan was once again seated atop the rooftop of the Haotai Hotel. As he replenished his body with meat, he practiced the "Giant Elephant Body Refining Technique," tempering his flesh.

After merging two Psionic Cubes, the regeneration of his flesh significantly accelerated. This allowed Chu Xuan to swiftly practice the technique without having to pause for days to wait for his flesh to regenerate on its own. His body refining realm soared once again.

Over the year, his cultivation leaped to the twenty-seventh layer of body refining. In terms of physical strength alone, he could now withstand a blow from a lower-grade magic treasure without sustaining a scratch!

"At this rate, I could reach the thirtieth layer of body refining in another two or three years," Chu Xuan mused, smacking his lips.

The "Giant Elephant Body Refining Technique" could only be cultivated up to the thirtieth layer, where one's body could rival a mid-grade magic treasure. The technique, which even the Golden Core cultivator Situ Jie had failed to perfect, was about to be mastered by him.

He wondered what expression Situ Jie would have if he knew.

"Let's continue practicing then, until reaching the thirtieth layer before reemerging."

Chu Xuan calmed his mind and continued to develop the particles within his body.

...

Three years later, Chu Xuan's body refining realm naturally reached the thirtieth layer. All 360 million microscopic particles in his body were transformed into titanic particles, making his physique as strong as a mid-grade magic treasure. With a casual strike, he could shatter a lower-grade magic treasure.

Of course, the claim of having the strength of 360 million ancient titanic beasts with every gesture was a bit of self-aggrandizement by the "Giant Elephant Body Refining Technique." Chu Xuan was aware of this.

"Time to return to the cultivation world. With my strength at the thirtieth layer of body refining, I should have a slight advantage against Golden Core cultivators, right?" Chu Xuan smiled.

When the Heavenly Seal Sect was annihilated, he was merely at the late stage of Foundation Establishment. Now, he had reached the pseudo-Golden Core realm, and his body refining had attained the thirtieth layer.

In the Southern Wilderness cultivation world, such cultivation was sufficient to dominate among those at the Golden Core level.

...

Black Dragon Mountain.

Chu Xuan returned here once again.

Song Junjie and Qian Tang reported recent developments respectfully. It had been almost a year since the Hundred Refinements Sect and the Heaven Burning Sect had established a non-aggression pact. Dozens of smaller sects still existed in the area between the two sects.

Someone had proclaimed themselves as the "Hundred Sects Alliance." This name quickly became the collective term for all the small sects in the middle zone.

Song Junjie continued, "Master, currently the strongest among the Hundred Sects Alliance are the True Martial Sect and the Heavenly Sword Faction. The True Martial Sect is guarded by two Golden Core cultivators. The Heavenly Sword Faction has one Golden Core cultivator."

Recently, both the Hundred Refinements Sect and the Heaven Burning Sect have considered absorbing the Hundred Sects Alliance but have hesitated due to fear of each other.

I've heard that both the True Martial Sect and the Heavenly Sword Faction are considering uniting all the small sects to resist the two major sects."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly.

The matters concerning those three Golden Core cultivators had already been reported by Song Junjie and Qian Tang. These three Golden Cores had escaped from the Divine Star Sect, Mystical Sound Palace, and Golden Fragon Temple. Due to their relatively weaker strength, they had managed to avoid being targeted and thus escaped.

The strongest among them was only at the mid-Golden Core stage. Now, within the Hundred Sects Alliance, they naturally dominated, uncontested by anyone.

However, upon hearing Song Junjie's words, Chu Xuan couldn't help but laugh.

Uniting into one force was not difficult, but after uniting, was their real intention to resist the two major sects, or was it to play both sides to glean benefits?

Any somewhat intelligent cultivator could guess the thoughts of those three Golden Core cultivators.

The trend of major sects absorbing smaller ones was inevitable.

Setting aside other factors, just considering the two Nascent Soul elders from the Hundred Refinements Sect and the Heaven Burning Sect, how could the vast gap in strength be bridged simply by uniting the Hundred Sects Alliance?

Qian Tang added, "Also, the True Martial Sect said that to counter the two major sects, they plan to send people to collect spirit stones, magic tools, talismans, pills, and so forth."

Qian Tang gave an embarrassed smile, "They've already come twice, but their demands are too high, and we've never been able to meet them, having put them off twice already... judging by the time, they are likely to come again today... do you have any ideas, Master?"

Song Junjie spoke up sharply, "Old Qian, what are you suggesting? Do you want our master to give treasures to those Taotie? This sort of matter should be something we handle on behalf of our master!"

Qian Tang quickly covered his mouth, his voice filled with panic, "Master, I misspoke, please punish me."

Chu Xuan's expression was one of amusement and sarcasm.

These two were indeed playing their roles in a coordinated act.

From the looks of it, Song Junjie and Qian Tang clearly did not want to give anything up and were planning to kick the responsibility to him to resolve the situation.

Just then, a booming voice suddenly resounded from the sky outside.

"Fellow Daoists of Black Dragon Mountain, I have come again. The previous two times, you both said you needed time to gather treasures. Now that it's the third visit, surely you can't still have nothing to present?

If that is indeed the case, I will have no choice but to report this matter to the two Golden Core elders of my True Martial Sect for their judgment."

Chapter 141: True Martial Sect

The resonant voice from outside the grand formation of Black Dragon Mountain penetrated without hindrance. It spread across the entire mountain, where the few disciples resided.

At this moment, no matter where they were, they all lifted their heads to hear the voice clearly. They had heard this voice twice before, and now, it was the third time.

The disciples all wanted to know how the sect leader and the deputy sect leader would handle this. If the leaders of Black Dragon Mountain could not resolve this matter, it would demonstrate their inadequacy.

Naturally, the disciples would then leave the sect to seek guidance elsewhere.

Inside the Council Hall, Song Junjie and Qian Tang remained silent and motionless, heads bowed like sullen gourds.

Chu Xuan displayed a faint smile. He took out the Corpse Nurturing Tower and casually waved his hand, "Hu, go and kill him."

"Yes."

A burly, dark-skinned giant swiftly swept past Song Junjie and Qian Tang. A chilling gust made their scalps tingle, as they felt the menace of death.

The two exchanged glances, each seeing the fear reflected in the other's eyes. Within just a few breaths, screams echoed from outside followed by another gust of bloody wind.

Hu tossed a blood-stained head at Chu Xuan's feet. The headless body was tucked casually under his arm, being gnawed on indifferently.

Crunch, crunch—the disturbing sound of chewing filled the Council Hall.

Song Junjie and Qian Tang stared at the head, swallowing hard as they observed the lingering emotions of unwillingness and shock.

Thump.

Qian Tang knelt down immediately, utterly terrified, "Master, this man was a cultivator from the True Martial Sect. Killing him will surely provoke the wrath of the two Golden Core elders from the True Martial Sect. Master, you must flee at once! We will stay behind to cover your retreat and buy you time!"

Song Junjie also knelt down, "Master! I should not have harbored any testing intentions. Please punish me!"

He had realized it now. Chu Xuan dared to kill a cultivator from the True Martial Sect because he must have something to rely on. Now, apart from bowing his head and admitting his mistake, he had no other choice.

Chu Xuan smiled faintly, pointing at Song Junjie, "Smart. Otherwise, you would be the next one I'd kill."

Song Junjie breathed a sigh of relief, feeling a cold sweat break out on his back and front.

Qian Tang uttered a sound of confusion, still not understanding the situation. After a long moment, he finally murmured softly, "Master, what do you plan to do? We are willing to die for you."

Chu Xuan scoffed, "You two are still useful; no need for you to die. Stay here; I'll be back soon."

With that, his figure swept out like a violent wind.

Hu, having already devoured the Foundation Establishment cultivator completely, immediately followed him.

Now, only Song Junjie and Qian Tang were left in the grand hall.

Thump.

Qian Tang collapsed onto the floor, nearly scared to death.

"Brother Song..."

Qian Tang was smiling now, but his smile was uglier than bitterness itself.

Song Junjie sighed deeply, "I've never been able to rid myself of the Gu in my body, unable to break free from him. At this point, we're firmly tied to him. Whether we live or die depends entirely on him."

Qian Tang said gravely, "Should we inform the two Golden Core elders from True Martial Sect ahead of time?"

Song Junjie shook his head, his eyes flashing, "No, although I don't know what he's relying on, he's certainly not afraid of those two Golden Core elders."

Qian Tang was shocked, "Not afraid of Golden Core?"

Song Junjie nodded, "We can only wait."

Qian Tang's face fell, "Let's wait then... just wait..."

...

As night deepened.

True Martial Sect, Council Hall.

Two Golden Core cultivators sat opposite each other, sharing a smile. Their names were Shangguan Feng and Zhang Wei, formerly Golden Core elders of the Divine Star Sect and Imperial Spirit Mountain, respectively. They were not of high realm, which was why they had escaped a catastrophe.

After much wandering, they arrived at the Hundred Sects Alliance, and with the might of Golden Core, they forced the former sect leaders to abdicate, themselves taking over as sect leader and deputy sect leader, wielding power as they pleased.

Shangguan Feng burst into hearty laughter, "Brother Zhang! We've made quite a fortune this time! Just from the tributes from the minor sects, we've collected over two thousand medium spiritual stones! And even more small spiritual stones, as many as fifty thousand!"

Zhang Wei also laughed heartily, "I suspect these minor sects still have some resources left. Before the two major sects start their moves, let's skim a little more and make a run for it!"

Shangguan Feng nodded repeatedly, "Exactly! Banding together to resist the major sects' absorption, do you believe that?"

Zhang Wei laughed loudly, "I don't believe it."

Shangguan Feng laughed even louder, "Neither do I, anyone who believes that is a fool. But they must believe it because they are Foundation Establishment, and we are Golden Core!"

The two exchanged a glance and burst into laughter again, their mirth resounding freely. After a good laugh, Shangguan Feng finally said, "Brother Zhang, your realm is lower than mine, and you are younger.

I, as your elder brother, have always looked out for you, so I should take more spiritual stones, don't you think? Let's do this: from the treasures collected this time, you take thirty percent, and I'll take seventy percent."

Upon hearing this, Zhang Wei's smile instantly stiffened.

"Brother Shangguan, that's a bit unkind," he protested. "My realm might be slightly lower and I might be younger, but my strength is not weak. Didn't I step in to handle the early-stage Golden Core demonic beast that appeared near our sect recently? You only got some minor injuries because of my actions. If I hadn't arrived in time, you might have been seriously hurt!"

Shangguan Feng's smile also froze.

"Brother Zhang, that's not how you say it. We must prioritize our roles in the distribution of treasures. I am the sect leader, and you are the deputy. That means I get more and you get less."

Zhang Wei grew annoyed, "No, no, no..."

In the blink of an eye, the two began to argue. Suddenly, a laugh echoed unexpectedly in the council hall.

"It is clearly mine, yet what purpose does your struggle serve?"

This voice startled them both. They abruptly turned towards the entrance of the hall.

Under the moonlight, a dark figure stood there. The two were greatly alarmed. They had been too heated in their argument over the spoils to notice someone approaching—an oversight that was astonishing!

Shangguan Feng shouted, "Who dares to enter the True Martial Sect's Council Hall!"

Zhang Wei scoffed, "Why waste words? Kill him first!"

Anyone who could enter the council hall so silently must be a Golden Core cultivator of their level. No need to talk. Just act.

Kill and take the treasure; wasn't that the convenient solution?

Swoosh!

Shangguan Feng formed a sword gesture, and three sword lights, swirling with water currents, screamed toward the vital points.

Zhang Wei clenched his fist, sending a massive earthen hand smashing toward the shadow!

They attacked with full force, giving no quarter.

"Just the practice I needed," Chu Xuan chuckled.

He stomped the ground fiercely, his body shooting forward like a cannonball!

Crack!

The oncoming sword lights shattered upon impact. With a loud crash, the earthen hand also burst apart.

In an instant, Chu Xuan's fist landed squarely on Shangguan Feng's head. The tremendous force exploded in that moment, like a giant elephant's crushing stomp.

With a gruesome squelch, the head was pulverized instantly.

Chapter 142: Mighty of Body Cultivator

Zhang Wei's eyes widened in shock. The two of them, one a fourth-layer and the other a third-layer Golden Core cultivator had unleashed their full magical power, only to have it shattered by the physical might of their opponent.

Shangguan Feng's head had been pulverized with a single punch! What kind of monster was this person?

A term long forgotten in the annals of history flashed through Zhang Wei's mind—Body Cultivator! Only a Body Refiner could possess such terrifying physical prowess.

Zhang Wei immediately retreated, throwing out two magic talismans which transformed into tiger spirits to temporarily hold off the attack. He then quickly cast two defensive spells.

A layer of earthy-yellow light armor enveloped his body, and a shield of Spiritual Qi formed in front of him. He also summoned two defensive magic treasures for extra protection.

The first was called the Ghost Silkworm Rope, a control-type magic treasure that also provided bodily protection.

The second, his life-bound magic treasure, was called the Thousand-Layer Ruler—a jade ruler engraved with patterns of birds and beasts.

As it appeared, it emitted a luminous jade light, positioning itself protectively in front of Zhang Wei.

Having arranged these defenses in one breath, Zhang Wei finally relaxed and faced his opponent. His Thousand-Layer Ruler, capable of both attack and defense, was his most relied upon magic treasure. He could hardly believe that, with all these layers of defense, they could still be breached by the opponent.

Chu Xuan looked at Zhang Wei, who had encased himself like a turtle in its shell and couldn't help but chuckle. "You certainly have a lot of defensive tricks," he said with a smile.

Zhang Wei, on alert, responded, "Fellow Daoist, let's talk this over. If you want to be the sect leader of the True Martial Sect, just take the position. There's no need for such violence."

Chu Xuan laughed louder. The position of a minor sect leader held no appeal to him. He smiled and said, "Compared to this so-called sect leadership, I'm more interested in your storage bag."

Zhang Wei's pupils shrank suddenly. The next moment, Chu Xuan launched a punch.

Bang!

In an instant, three punches were thrown.

The first punch shattered the Spiritual Qi armor and shield.

The second punch caused the Ghost Silkworm Rope to cry out as it fell to the ground.

The third punch left the Thousand-Layer Ruler dim and cracked into three pieces.

His life-bound magic treasure destroyed, Zhang Wei immediately suffered a backlash, spurting blood and being flung backward. His pupils reflected the rapidly enlarging fourth punch.

The only thought in his mind: Such mighty strength, such fierce fists.

Bang!

The head shattered.

Chu Xuan's Spiritual Qi vibrated, flinging the blood and brain matter from his fists. He looked at the two headless corpses inside the council hall and smiled faintly.

The thirty layers of body refinement truly made him formidable—resisting Golden Core spells with his physical body and bursting lower-grade magic treasures with his punches.

"I wanted to become a sword immortal when I first crossed over," Chu Xuan mused as he looked at his oversized fists and smacked his lips.

What sword immortal? They all would tremble under the might of his thirty-layered body refinement.

Casually, Chu Xuan collected the two bodies into his Corpse Nurturing Tower and took their storage bags as well, then strode out of the hall.

The commotion had already drawn the attention of many disciples of the True Martial Sect.

But as Chu Xuan walked out, the disciples quickly dispersed, muttering about how beautiful the moon was tonight, though it was a dark and windy night hardly suitable for such remarks.

...

"Fat indeed! Truly fat!" Chu Xuan exclaimed as he emptied the contents of the two Golden Core cultivators' storage bags.

The storage bags of Golden Core cultivators were indeed richer than those of Foundation Establishment cultivators.

It was clear that after taking over the True Martial Sect, the two had not intended to lay down roots but had treated it merely as a means to amass wealth. Many of the treasures in their bags were extorted from other minor sects.

Of course, most items collected from the minor sects were Foundation Establishment stage treasures like magic tools, pills, and talismans. These were of little use to Chu Xuan now, except for the spiritual stones. Regardless of one's realm, spiritual stones were always useful.

"The magic treasure of that fellow I shattered, but that old man's treasures are still intact."

Chu Xuan examined the dark seal in his hand, named the Black Tortoise Seal, a lower-grade magic treasure. Its method of killing was simple: smash it towards the enemy. It epitomized simplicity and brute force.

Although it was only a lower-grade magic treasure, it far surpassed even the finest magic tools. Chu Xuan estimated that it could easily crush most top-grade defensive magic tools.

With a sweep of his spiritual sense, Chu Xuan erased Shangguan Feng's residual spiritual imprint on it and replaced it with his own soul blood imprint. His own spirit was strong enough to simultaneously wield about four magic treasures.

Since he had acquired a magic treasure, he ought to make use of it. An additional magic treasure meant additional strength.

"And there's this spiritual sense secret technique. Though it's just a lower-grade Golden Core phase technique, it will suffice for now."

Chu Xuan pulled out a book titled "Soul Piercing Needle" from Shangguan Feng's storage bag and nodded slightly.

The "Soul Piercing Needle" had only two layers: the first layer discussed methods to temper spiritual sense and the second detailed how to condense spiritual sense into soul-piercing needles.

Chu Xuan wasn't concerned about its strength. Having it was enough.

Secret techniques for spiritual sense were rarer than methods for cultivation and spells. Having such a technique already put him ahead of most Golden Core cultivators.

There would naturally be opportunities to acquire better techniques for spiritual sense in the future. Even if he couldn't find them himself, there were always benevolent individuals who might bring them right to his doorstep.

...

In the council hall of Black Dragon Mountain, Song Junjie and Qian Tang paced nervously like ants on a hot pan, unable to stand still for fear that cultivators from the True Martial Sect would come knocking to demand justice.

However, as night gave way to the early morning sunrise, there was still no sign of anyone from the True Martial Sect. The incident seemed to have dissipated like a drop of water into the ocean, leaving no trace.

"What on earth happened?" Qian Tang was anxious.

"I've already sent someone to gather information; we should have news soon," Song Junjie said gravely.

Moments later, a disciple rushed into the hall like an arrow. "Sect Leader, Deputy Sect Leader, I've got the news. The True Martial Sect's Golden Core..."

He was so excited that his words came out jumbled.

"Speak, hurry up! What happened to the True Martial Sect?" Qian Tang couldn't contain his impatience.

Song Junjie stepped forward and placed a palm on the shoulder of the Qi cultivation disciple, channeling a cool stream of Spiritual Qi into him. This helped the disciple calm down.

"Speak," Song Junjie commanded solemnly.

The disciple respectfully reported, "The two Golden Core cultivators from the True Martial Sect vanished last night. According to what the disciples of True Martial Sect said, there were sounds of fighting from their council hall last night, and at the end, they saw a black-robed cultivator flying away. Since then, the two Golden Core cultivators have been missing."

Song Junjie and Qian Tang exchanged a look, seeing the shock in each other's eyes.

"You may leave," Song Junjie waved his hand.

"Yes."

Once the council hall was empty again, Qian Tang voiced his shock, "It must have been the master..."

Song Junjie nodded firmly, "It was definitely the master. He's not just a ninth layer Foundation Establishment as we had guessed—he's a Golden Core cultivator..."

Their faces showed a mix of excitement and bitterness. It was good news that their master was a Golden Core cultivator, but the fact that he was also a demonic cultivator was less cause for celebration.

Chapter 143: An Invitation from the Hundred Refinements Sect

At Black Dragon Mountain, some time had passed when suddenly, a cultured and cheerful laugh echoed from outside the grand formation at the mountain gate.

"Old man Tong Yijian here, specially visiting the daoists of Black Dragon Mountain!"

Song Junjie and Qian Tang were in the midst of figuring out how to grovel in front of Chu Xuan when they heard this voice, making them shudder simultaneously. Tong Yijian?

Wasn't that a Golden Core cultivator from the Heavenly Sword Sect? What brought him to Black Dragon Mountain?

Neither Song Junjie nor Qian Tang dared to delay and hurried out to welcome Elder Tong Yijian.

Moments later, the white-haired Tong Yijian was respectfully ushered into the council hall.

Tong Yijian surveyed the two men and smiled slightly, "I wonder where that Golden Core fellow daoist is now?"

Song Junjie and Qian Tang feigned ignorance. "Elder Tong, what do you mean? There are no Golden Core great powers in Black Dragon Mountain."

Tong Yijian burst into laughter. "No need to pretend, the old man already received the news at the first moment, that Shangguan Feng and Zhang Wei are dead. I also have some skills in the way of Gu insects, and when I previously made contact with you two, I detected a Five Organs Gu in both of your bodies. Tell me, where is that fellow daoist of yours now?"

Song Junjie and Qian Tang were sweating profusely. Indeed, there had been a grand meeting called by the True Martial Sect and the Heavenly Sword Sect at the Hundred Sects Alliance.

During the meeting, this Golden Core cultivator encouraged them all to diligently cultivate and stand together against the major sects, even patting them on the shoulders in a friendly manner.

It turned out this old fox had known about the trickery at Black Dragon Mountain all along but had never made it explicit.

As Song Junjie and Qian Tang were stammering, a voice came from the entrance of the council hall. "Looking for me?"

Chu Xuan walked into the hall with confident strides, his hands poised as if ready to strike at any moment. It was unexpected; just after dealing with two Golden Core cultivators, Shangguan Feng and Zhang Wei, a third one had shown up so soon.

Song Junjie and Qian Tang tensed up immediately, sensing the tense atmosphere as if a fight could break out at any moment.

'Should we run? If we don't run now, we might be caught in the aftermath of a battle between Golden Core cultivators.'

When Tong Yijian saw Chu Xuan, he did not initiate a fight but instead slowly rose and smiled, "I am Tong Yijian, nice to meet you, fellow daoist."

He exuded the aura of a late-stage Golden Core cultivator.

Chu Xuan raised an eyebrow and casually withdrew his readiness to attack, a curious expression crossing his face.

Late-stage Golden Core? If he remembered correctly, according to the intelligence Song Junjie and Qian Tang provided, among Shangguan Feng, Zhang Wei, and Tong Yijian, only Shangguan Feng was a mid-stage Golden Core. Zhang Wei and Tong Yijian were both at the early stage. How was it that Tong Yijian now appeared to be at the late-stage?

The display of late-stage Golden Core cultivation might be intended to intimidate him. Given the unclear strength of the opponent, it was best not to act rashly.

Thinking this, Chu Xuan also displayed a smile, "Fellow daoist Tong, it's a pleasure to meet you."

Qian Tang looked confused, not understanding how the atmosphere had suddenly become so amicable. Song Junjie promptly pulled him aside, quickly stepping out of the hall.

"The two seniors, please talk, we will wait outside."

With a creak, the council hall doors shut tightly.

Chu Xuan greeted with a fist and palm salute, smiling, "Elder Tong, it's a pleasure. I am He Liang."

Elder Tong Yijian returned the smile, "Fellow daoist He, to be so young and yet so accomplished! Truly, the new waves push the old waves forward!"

Their exchange was filled with polite formalities until Tong Yijian finally spoke, "I wonder, fellow daoist He, what is your view on the Hundred Refinements Sect and the Heaven Burning Sect?"

Chu Xuan replied immediately, "To be honest, I was but a Foundation Establishment wanderer from Yu Country, who, by a twist of fate in these chaotic times, managed to achieve Golden Core. In my view, the trend of major sects absorbing smaller ones is inevitable. The Hundred Sects Alliance is essentially scattered sand. We, as Golden Core cultivators, should simply choose a major sect to join."

Chu Xuan smiled, "I wonder, Elder Tong, which sect's elder are you?"

Tong Yijian was momentarily taken aback, then burst into laughter, "Fellow daoist He is truly astute, recognizing my identity at a glance. Well, I won't pretend any longer."

Elder Tong Yijian said solemnly, "I am Elder Jian Yitong of the Hundred Refinements Sect. Would fellow daoist He be willing to join our sect?"

Chu Xuan's smile broadened, "An invitation from a major sect is not to be refused. I am willing!"

Elder Jian Yitong was surprised by Chu Xuan's readiness. He laughed heartily, "Very good! I will report this to my sect. Fellow daoist He, you just need to wait for that day to come."

With that, he rose, gave a formal bow, and left Black Dragon Mountain with great strides.

Chu Xuan watched his retreating figure, his expression one of amusement.

This Jian Yitong had definitely been incognito in the Hundred Sects Alliance for a long time. He had previously manipulated Shangguan Feng and Zhang Wei to bind the alliance tightly together.

Surely, it was a form of entrapment! Those small sects willing to band together against the major sects were probably already on his blacklist.

It was indeed a clever strategy, significantly reducing the cost of absorbing the Hundred Sects Alliance. It seemed that the Heaven Burning Sect was still inferior to the Hundred Refinements Sect in this regard.

As for joining the Heaven Burning Sect or the Hundred Refinements Sect, Chu Xuan was indifferent. Either would do. Major sects would inevitably absorb the smaller ones.

His occupation of Black Dragon Mountain was simply because the situation was unclear, and he didn't want to get too involved with one side, preferring to observe how things unfolded.

Now, however, the situation had clarified. It was indeed time to join one side.

Some say it's better to be a big fish in a small pond than a small fish in a big pond. But that depends on the gap between the big and small ponds. If the gap is too large, why not be at the lower end of the top tier?

Moreover, with Chu Xuan's current strength, he didn't see himself as being at the bottom among Golden Core cultivators. If the Hundred Refinements Sect didn't offer him a fitting position, it would show their lack of discernment. Such a sect might not be worth joining after all.

On the other side, Jian Yitong maneuvered his flying magic treasure, swiftly departing from Black Dragon Mountain.

Initially, he maintained the appearance of a wise and distinguished cultivator, but after flying nearly a thousand li, he finally relaxed and let out a breath, his scalp tingling.

"What level of cultivation does that guy have? Why can't I see through him?" he wondered aloud. "From the moment he entered the hall, it seemed he was always ready with a killing move. Thankfully, I used a secret technique to disguise my aura, forcefully elevating it to late-stage Golden Core, which made him stand down his offensive. This is no simple matter; I must report back to the sect immediately."

In a secluded stony mountain, Jian Yitong gathered his energy and focused, waiting for someone. Soon, a figure approached from the north, landing swiftly and revealing his true appearance—a stern-looking middle-aged man.

The middle-aged man smiled and said, "Senior Brother Jian, what urgent matter requires my personal attendance?"

Jian Yitong hurriedly responded, "It is indeed a matter of urgency."

He promptly recounted the mysterious disappearance of Shangguan Feng and Zhang Wei, and his own visit to meet Chu Xuan.

The middle-aged man listened with some astonishment. "Shangguan Feng and Zhang Wei, one a fourth-layer and the other a third-layer Golden Core, were easily killed by him. What kind of strength does this person possess? Could he be, like Senior Brother Jian, at the sixth layer of Golden Core?"

Jian Yitong spoke gravely, "I cannot discern his level of cultivation, but this man is certainly no ordinary individual. However, he has shown interest in joining our Hundred Refinements Sect. Perhaps you should personally report this to the sect master. A cultivator of such strength must not be allowed to be swayed by the Heaven Burning Sect."

The stern middle-aged man nodded decisively, "Senior Brother Jian, your words are most prudent. I will return to the sect and report directly to the sect master. The master has always valued talent and will not miss the opportunity to recruit someone like He Liang."

Chapter 144: Rules of the Black Dragon Mountain

Five days later, four Golden Core cultivators from the Hundred Refinements Sect led a large number of disciples as they suddenly headed south overnight. Wherever they passed, the cultivators of the Hundred Sects Alliance surrendered at the sight of them.

However, surrender did not guarantee survival; a list had already determined who would live and who would die. A bloody storm unfolded at every corner of the alliance.

Yet, even on this murderous, wind-swept night under a dark moon, there was a peaceful sanctuary—Black Dragon Mountain.

Song Junjie, Qian Tang, and about a dozen Qi cultivation disciples remained in the council hall. Even the Qi Refining disciples could hear the distant cries of slaughter in the pitch-black night. They shivered, fearing such a catastrophe could also descend upon them.

Song Junjie looked around and calmly stated, "Fellow disciples, do not panic. We just need to stay calm and wait for this turmoil to subside."

He was a smart man. When Elder Tong Yijian had proactively visited to discuss matters with their master, he knew Black Dragon Mountain was safe.

Sure enough, as the Hundred Refinements Sect marched south, not a single person approached Black Dragon Mountain. This was clearly preferential treatment from the Hundred Refinements Sect.

Qian Tang felt relieved inside. It was good to have a capable master; otherwise, they too might have been completely wiped out on this bloody night.

Soon, the sun rose in the east, and the region had a new ruler—Black Dragon Mountain.

Jian Yitong and a stern-looking middle-aged man arrived together. "Is fellow daoist He around?" Their voices boomed across Black Dragon Mountain.

Chu Xuan, who had not left the cultivation world these past few days, appeared upon hearing them. The three entered the council hall.

The stern middle-aged man smiled and introduced himself, "I am Mei Yaoguang, an elder of the Hundred Refinements Sect, and also a junior brother of the same sect lineage as Elder Jian."

Chu Xuan greeted them with a fist and palm salute.

Mei Yaoguang took out a daoist robe, an elder's token, and a high-quality storage bag of immense capacity, handing them to Chu Xuan. "I have informed the sect master of everything about you, and he was delighted. He immediately agreed to have you join the Hundred Refinements Sect.

He has also granted you authority over Black Dragon Mountain and a radius of three thousand li. Such a vast territory is indeed enviable even among other Golden Core elders."

Mei Yaoguang continued smiling, "From now on, you are Elder He of the Hundred Refinements Sect, capable of establishing your own doctrines and teachings. You will have unrestricted access to the sect's treasure and scripture vaults. Of course, exchanging various treasures still requires sect contributions."

Chu Xuan accepted each item one by one, pondering the astuteness of the Hundred Refinements Sect. They had assigned the region around Black Dragon Mountain directly to him.

At first glance, it seemed they were granting him the opportunity to establish his own sect there. In reality, they positioned him as a bulwark against the Heaven Burning Sect. Merely a few thousand li to the south lay the territory of the Heaven Burning Sect!

Despite these thoughts, Chu Xuan's face betrayed none of his emotions. Instead, he offered a smile, "Convey my thanks to the sect master for his generosity."

Mei Yaoguang, seeing Chu Xuan's cooperative demeanor, smiled as well. "Of course." After exchanging a few more pleasantries, he piloted his flying magic treasure away.

Jian Yitong looked towards Chu Xuan, his expression somewhat awkward. "Apologies, fellow daoist He. The territories of Yan country have already been allocated, and new Golden Core cultivators can only be assigned to this part of the Hundred Sects Alliance.

However, my Heavenly Sword Sect is just beside you. In a few days, another newly advanced Golden Core elder will also come to establish his base here. The three of us will form a strategic triangle to support each other in case of any incidents. If the Heaven Burning Sect attacks, you need not worry—our sect will defend us with all its might."

Chu Xuan nodded slightly. The Hundred Refinements Sect's bold move to absorb the Hundred Sects Alliance was undoubtedly backed by the confidence to disregard any non-aggression pacts. This, he was not worried about.

After Jian Yitong departed, Song Junjie and Qian Tang scurried up to Chu Xuan and knelt silently before him, waiting for him to speak. Their lives were in his hands, after all.

Chu Xuan spoke indifferently, "From now on, I am an elder of the Hundred Refinements Sect, and you are its disciples. This land within three thousand li is under the purview of our Black Dragon Mountain lineage."

Song Junjie and Qian Tang's eyes widened in surprise. Just like that, we've become disciples of the Hundred Refinements Sect? This was an enormous boon!

Chu Xuan continued calmly, "I cultivate virtue, which you cannot learn. Thus, teach whatever you wish to teach, and propagate whatever you wish to propagate. Henceforth, our Black Dragon Mountain will embrace all streams and foster inclusivity."

Song Junjie and Qian Tang exchanged looks.

'Cultivate virtue? Do you believe it?'

'I certainly don't.'

At that moment, Chu Xuan recalled the sources of sect contributions for the Hundred Refinements Sect. Besides eliminating enemies from opposing sects and fulfilling sect missions, a primary source was the successful instruction of disciples.

A multitude of strong disciples would naturally bring abundant contributions. When the time came, whatever was needed could simply be exchanged with a wave of his hand.

Chu Xuan stated casually, "As for cultivation, I have but one requirement."

Song Junjie and Qian Tang immediately perked up their ears to listen.

Chu Xuan stated indifferently, "Qi Refining disciples, once you have drawn qi into your body and embarked on the path of immortality, if you do not advance to the middle stage of Qi Refining within five years, you shall be transformed into a corpse puppet.

Similarly, if a middle-stage Qi Qi Refining disciple does not break through to the late stage within five years, they too shall be made into a corpse puppet. The same applies to Foundation Establishment disciples."

For those at the initial stage of Foundation Establishment, if they do not reach the middle stage within ten years. And those at the middle stage, if they do not advance to the late stage within ten years, they will all be turned into corpse puppets."

Song Junjie and Qian Tang's eyes widened in shock.

You just said you cultivate virtue. Listen to yourself! Are these the words someone who cultivates virtue would say?

"Hmm? Do you wish to say something?" Chu Xuan glanced at them.

Song Junjie and Qian Tang shuddered as if a supreme beast had glanced at them.

"We have nothing to say, absolutely nothing," Qian Tang said seriously.

Chu Xuan continued, "There are too few Foundation Establishment cultivators. Within a month, Black Dragon Mountain must have at least five. The number of Qi Refining disciples is also insufficient; we need at least a hundred within a month. This task is also yours to handle."

Song Junjie and Qian Tang were dumbfounded.

Chu Xuan casually waved his hand, and several magic tools fell before them. "These are yours now, use them well. Perform well and there will be rewards."

The two looked down and their eyes lit up. They were all high-grade magic tools, and there was even a top-grade magic tool!

Chu Xuan casually added, "If you fail to complete the task, you two will also be turned into corpse puppets."

The two shivered and quickly nodded their heads.

After Chu Xuan left, Qian Tang managed a bitter smile, "Brother Song, what should we do?"

Song Junjie said coldly, "To complete the master's task is difficult yet simple."

Qian Tang was puzzled, "What do you mean by simple?"

A ruthless glint appeared in Song Junjie's eyes, "Abduct them! If they don't want to come to Black Dragon Mountain, we'll make them. Aren't you skilled in Gu techniques? Just like the master controls us, control those Foundation Establishment cultivators.

With a month's time and the master's gifted magic tools, it's more than enough! Once Black Dragon Mountain's notorious reputation spreads, it won't matter if no mortals come for the spiritual seed selection. Then we'll go town by town, directly capturing mortals with spiritual roots and bringing them back!"

Qian Tang took a sharp breath as if seeing Song Junjie in a new light.

Qian Tang solemnly said, "Brother Song, you are ruthless enough. Let's do it!"

Chapter 145: Jian Yitong's Shock

Several days later, two figures approached together. One was the white-haired Jian Yitong, and the other, a spirited young man exuding the aura of a Golden Core cultivator.

"Elder He! I am Jian Yitong, may I have a moment of your time?" His voice echoed across Black Dragon Mountain, yet there was no sign of Chu Xuan, nor were Song Junjie and Qian Tang visible.

Jian Yitong scratched his head in confusion. Where is everyone? The vast Black Dragon Mountain seemed devoid of any host.

After dozens of breaths, a Qi Refining disciple, soaring on a flying sword, ascended into the sky.

The disciple bowed respectfully, "I am Liu Qing, a disciple of Black Dragon Mountain, greetings, elder."

Jian Yitong frowned, "Where is your grandmaster? Where are the two Foundation Establishment cultivators of Black Dragon Mountain? This is quite the neglect."

Liu Qing bowed, "Elder Jian, the grandmaster is elusive, and both my master and Uncle Master Qian have left. May I know your business? Once my master returns, I will relay your message."

Before Jian Yitong could respond, the young man sighed, "This is my first visit and I do not even get to meet Elder He. To be received by a mere disciple, does Elder He think little of a newly ascended Golden Core like me? Never mind, Elder Jian, I'll return to my Thousand Hammer Peak. I have much to attend to and shall not waste more time here."

With that, the young man rode the wind away, disappearing from view.

Jian Yitong managed a wry smile, turning to Liu Qing, "Liu Qing, was it? Remember this. The one who left is the newly ascended Golden Core Elder, Yuan Zichu, who has established his Daoist hall at Thousand Hammer Peak.

Fellow daoist Yuan, barely past thirty, has already reached the Golden Core phase, promising a boundless future. I brought him here specifically to pay respects to your Black Dragon Mountain's ancient master, to form a good connection, alas...

Ensure no discord arises between the two. When your master returns, make sure you relay my exact words to fellow daoist He."

Liu Qing nodded, "Yes, I will report everything to the master as you said."

After Jian Yitong departed, Liu Qing returned to his cultivation chamber to resume his relentless training.

Had it not been for the arrival of a Golden Core cultivator, whose voice permeated Black Dragon Mountain and with no one appearing to welcome him, he would have preferred not to leave his chamber at all.

With the rule that failing to advance to the late stage of Qi cultivation within five years results in transformation into a corpse puppet, his life was at stake—where would he find the time for other concerns?

Song Junjie and Qian Tang, busy capturing Foundation Establishment and Qi cultivation practitioners around the world, had even less time to spare. Each time they returned to Black Dragon Mountain, they only had time to drink some spiritual tea and eat some spiritual food before they had to leave again to continue capturing cultivators.

Empowered by the magic tools bestowed by Chu Xuan, they moved without restraint. Unless a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator intervened, no other Foundation Establishment practitioners could challenge them.

Within a month, the two of them astonishingly captured eighteen Foundation Establishment cultivators and over two hundred Qi cultivation disciples!

Such results greatly pleased Chu Xuan, who immediately rewarded them with various pills and talismans—items he found redundant but were highly useful for Foundation Establishment cultivators.

However, the actions of Black Dragon Mountain had incensed Thousand Hammer Peak.

A few days later, Yuan Zichu arrived at Black Dragon Mountain in a fury. His booming voice erupted, resonating throughout the mountain, "He Liang, come out!"

His Golden Core cultivation unfurled recklessly, instilling genuine fear in every disciple on Black Dragon Mountain.

At that moment, Song Junjie and Qian Tang, who had just returned with a few captured Foundation Establishment cultivators, quickly positioned themselves at the mountain gate.

"Who goes there, and why do you address my master with such disrespect?" Song Junjie demanded sternly.

Yuan Zichu, incredulous and further infuriated, retorted, "You don't even know who I am? Your Black Dragon Mountain is truly discourteous! Accusing me of rudeness while being rude yourselves!"

"He Liang! Come out! Your Black Dragon Mountain has raided my spiritual seedlings, five times!" Yuan Zichu's tirade was abruptly cut off as his pupils dilated in alarm. He swiftly dodged to the side.

A massive black python shot out from somewhere in Black Dragon Mountain, narrowly missing him. Had his reaction been any slower, he would have been struck solidly by the black python.

Upon closer inspection, Yuan Zichu realized that it wasn't a python at all, but a magic treasure radiating a fierce, chilling light.

"Such a ferocious magic treasure!" he thought, shocked. He had not expected He Liang to possess such a formidable magic treasure, and his initial bluster diminished significantly.

Before Yuan Zichu could speak again, a figure sped toward him at an incredible pace. The fist of this figure magnified rapidly—only a breath ago, it was still at the mountain gate, and the next, it was inches from his nose!

Yuan Zichu's heart pounded violently. From this unadorned fist, he sensed an immense threat—a threat of death!

He couldn't fathom why such a thought occurred to him, but clearly, there was no time to dodge; he had to block this strike!

Yuan Zichu swiftly formed a seal, and immediately, a tri-layered water-blue protective shield appeared in front of him, consisting of pale blue, azure, and deep blue layers.

He slapped his storage bag, summoning three talismans that burst into flames and formed three layers of defense. Then, with a surge of his Spiritual Qi, he activated a small shield-shaped magic treasure to guard his face.

Renowned as a prodigy within the Hundred Refinements Sect, Yuan Zichu had been nurtured as if born with a silver spoon. He was laden with an abundance of magic treasures, spells, and talismans.

Had he not insisted, the sect master of the Hundred Refinements Sect would never have assigned him to establish his Daoist hall at Thousand Hammer Peak, preferring instead to keep him safe in the rear to continue his cultivation.

Yuan Zichu thought to himself, "With so many defensive measures, I should be able to block this strike—"

However, before he could finish his thought, the fist, as large as a pot, smashed through the small shield magic treasure, shattered the talismans, and breached the spell defenses, aiming straight for his head!

Yuan Zichu's eyes nearly bulged out in shock. He only had time to shield his face with his life-bound magic treasure.

Boom!

The fist instantly cracked the life-bound magic treasure. Yuan Zichu's body was hurled backward, spewing blood mid-air. His life-bound magic treasure dimmed and emitted mournful whines.

Just as Chu Xuan was about to follow through with his punch to obliterate Yuan Zichu's head, a streak of light approached from afar, shouting, "Elder He! Please refrain! Yuan Zichu is one of our own, an elder of the Hundred Refinements Sect!"

Chu Xuan frowned and held back his strike. He had thought Yuan Zichu was merely a courier delivering treasures. Unbeknownst to him, the man was actually a Golden Core elder of the Hundred Refinements Sect. Thus, a direct killing was no longer an option.

Jian Yitong rushed over to help Yuan Zichu up, inwardly dismayed by the growing rift this incident might cause.

Yuan Zichu, clutching his chest and looking at Chu Xuan with fear, heard Jian Yitong begin to explain, but he quickly interrupted, bowing to Chu Xuan, "Elder He, I was presumptuous."

"This fault is mine today. I should not have rushed to Black Dragon Mountain and questioned you without explanation." He then produced a magic treasure, "This treasure is called the Imperial Sky Mirror, a mid-grade flying magic treasure. I hope you will accept it."

He bowed deeply to Chu Xuan, "May we consider the matter of the spiritual seedlings resolved, and I ask for your understanding and forgiveness."

Jian Yitong's eyes widened. Yuan Zichu was known for his pride and vengefulness. Why was he backing down today? And why was he offering a treasure so readily?