The Demonic Cultivator In Zombie World(155-159) (Patreon)

Chapter 155: Plan of Shang Tianjue?

Chu Xuan was laden with treasures aplenty.

As for the treasures needed for foundation building, they were even more numerous.

He did not mind bestowing some items he no longer needed to Huang An.

Given Huang An's disposition, stepping into the Foundation Establishment stage might well bring some surprises.

Of course, if he failed to advance, it would matter little.

It would merely be a move in passing.

Contented, Chu Xuan swiftly departed.

...

At the Hundred Refinements Sect, atop Original Dao Peak, Shang Tianjue stood at the summit, gazing northward.

A step behind him, an elderly crone with wispy hair and wrinkled skin stood respectfully.

This crone was the Nascent Soul ancestor of the Hundred Refinements Sect, Miao Zizai.

Miao Zizai whispered, "Young master, it is too soon for you to act. Every ten years, the Feather Transformation Palace communicates with all Nascent Soul cultivators of the eastern, western, northern, and southern territories through the Heavenly Patrol Mirror.

With the current efforts to locate you and the second young master, these exchanges will undoubtedly become more frequent. The death of Shentu Jin will sooner or later come to the attention of the Feather Transformation Palace."

Shang Tianjue did not respond immediately but said calmly, "Elder Miao, are you afraid?"

Miao Zizai smiled, "My life, young master, was one you dug out from a pile of corpses. If you demand it now, it is yours."

Shang Tianjue spoke evenly, "Elder Miao, in three years, the extraterritorial battlefield will open."

Miao Zizai was startled, then as if struck by a thought, a brilliant light sparked in his eyes.

...

"To be ranked among the fifth-level cultivation sects, one must have a cultivator at the Deity Transformation stage. The Heavenly Dao Immortal Alliance grants such sects the right to enter the extraterritorial battlefield.

Additionally, contributing extremely rare treasures can also earn one the privilege to enter. The extraterritorial battlefield opens every five hundred years, and each opening requires a large number of Golden Core and Nascent Soul cultivators to clear the field.

The benefits of the extraterritorial battlefield are numerous, foremost being the plethora of cultivators' corpses, followed by fragments of magical treasures, and various ancient and lost techniques and scriptures..."

Chu Xuan positioned himself comfortably, flipping through an aged tome.

Following the destruction of the Heaven Burning Sect, their library had been plundered by lesser sects and rogue cultivators.

Chu Xuan had arranged for Song Junjie and Qian Tang to acquire many books.

Such a major sect indeed held many secrets, even unknown to Chu Xuan.

For instance, this extraterritorial battlefield, scarcely known among Golden Core cultivators.

After all, it opens once every five hundred years. And the lifespan of a Golden Core cultivator also spans merely five hundred years.

Nonetheless, the existence of the extraterritorial battlefield is no taboo.

It's simply that its knowledge is not widespread, known but to a few.

"I wonder what kind of place it truly is; should the opportunity arise, it might be worth exploring," mused Chu Xuan.

Primarily, he wished to witness different landscapes, having no interest in the corpses of cultivators.

...

Two months blinked by, unusually tranquil.

In the abrupt demise of the Heaven Burning Sect, vast vacuums emerged within the Yue Kingdom. Lesser sects were nearly at each other's throats.

Under such circumstances, the Hundred Refinements Sect showed no intention of moving south. It seemed they were waiting for something.

During this period, the Hidden Mountain Gathering organized another Golden Core assembly.

Chu Xuan attended once again. He noticed the absence of Deep Sea. But there were two new members.

This meeting was rich with intelligence. Not just about the Hundred Refinements Sect and Heaven Burning Sects. But also about Myriad Islands Lake.

The power distribution and general situation of Myriad Islands Lake were clarified to Chu Xuan.

That day, Yuan Zichu, who seldom made personal visits, came calling. His arrival surprised Chu Xuan.

Since that time when all his defenses were crushed by a single punch, there had been little contact between them.

Why the sudden visit?

Once Yuan Zichu and Chu Xuan were seated, he immediately inquired, "Fellow daoist He, are you aware of the stirrings at Myriad Islands Lake to the north?"

Chu Xuan shook his head, "What stirrings? I keep to myself and am uninformed."

Myriad Islands Lake, vast in area, was home to various powers. One of the largest is the Alliance of Twenty-Six Islands.

This power was located at the southernmost part of Myriad Islands Lake, often interacting with the Hundred Refinements Sect.

The Hundred Refinements Sect, with its vast resources, had established a Treasure Ship Market at the lake's edge.

Through this market, the sect exchanged goods with the cultivators of Myriad Islands Lake.

The profits were substantial. To say the Alliance of Twenty-Six Islands did not covet this would be impossible.

However, the strength of the Hundred Refinements Sect always surpassed that of the Alliance, and the latter dared not provoke any incidents.

Yuan Zichu clenched his fists, "The Alliance of Twenty-Six Islands covets our Hundred Refinements Sect's Treasure Ship Market, covertly instigating rogues to disrupt the market.

The market's profits have greatly diminished over the past two years. Our sect showed some forbearance, only to be met with their increasing audacity!

Just three days ago, two of our sect's stewards were killed! Intolerable is an understatement! The sect has called upon the Golden Core elders to go and guard the Treasure Ship Market!"

Yuan Zichu declared somberly, "I have volunteered to go there and suppress the audacity of those Myriad Islands Lake cultivators!"

Chu Xuan nodded, "With such resolve, fellow daoist Yuan, the sect master will surely be gratified."

Yuan Zichu earnestly said, "I know fellow daoist He, that you are powerful. Why not join me? With your cultivation level, you could certainly turn those Myriad Islands Lake cultivators on their heads! The contributions to the sect would be substantial, would they not?"

Chu Xuan frowned, "I've said before, I do not delight in strife or bloodshed. Why involve me in such matters? Let this be the last time you seek me for such endeavors! Qian Tang, show the guest out!"

With a sweep of his sleeve, he turned and left.

Qian Tang, who had been standing in the hall, quickly approached, "Elder Yuan, this way, please."

Yuan Zichu's expression was one of astonishment. He had thought Chu Xuan's previous refusals were mere formalities. He hadn't expected him to actually mean it!

"Fellow daoist He, you... Ah... How could you miss such an opportunity?"

Yuan Zichu shook his head and left, his sleeves fluttering. He had long regarded Chu Xuan as a person of note, intent on forming an alliance in this manner.

Last time was the same. And so was this time. Both attempts were rebuffed by Chu Xuan. There was nothing to be done but to find someone else.

Chu Xuan merely scoffed. Though the Alliance of Twenty-Six Islands had Nascent Soul ancestor just like the Hundred Refinements Sect, the Alliance, comprising twenty-six large islands and nearly a hundred smaller ones, was often issuing multiple orders, creating chaos.

They were completely disorganized. How could such a fragmented force dare to oppose the well-disciplined Hundred Refinements Sect?

The so-called rogue cultivators disrupting the Treasure Ship Market was likely a drama orchestrated by the Hundred Refinements Sect themselves. This scheme was probably led by Shang Tianjue.

Chu Xuan could not fathom the "Overlord's" motives. But he wanted no part in such a play.

At first glance, it seemed like an easy job. But who knew what those two Nascent Soul old monsters from the Hundred Refinements Sect were thinking? If they needed a few lives to ignite a war, they wouldn't care whose lives were sacrificed.

"Yuan Zichu, oh Yuan Zichu... I hope you survive."

Chu Xuan was indifferent to it all. In a blink, he returned to Blue Star, continuing his cultivation of the "Yin Thunder Evil Technique."

Chapter 156: Leave Again

Blue Star.

Chu Xuan continued to sit in meditation, cultivating.

One year, two years, three years...

Time swiftly passed by. Chu Xuan never cared much about the passing of time. Here, ten years might pass, and only a year would elapse on Mystic Azure Star.

Hum!

His internal energy surged. In the blink of an eye, he broke through another layer. He stepped into the seventh level of the Golden Core stage.

The seventh level of Golden Core, belonging to the latter stages, signified immensely strong capabilities. He could easily eliminate cultivators in the middle stages of Golden Core.

"The number of Yin Thunder Seeds in my dantian has also reached over two thousand, not bad, not bad."

Chu Xuan stood up, a smile spreading across his face.

At that moment, Long rushed in from outside the formation, babbling rapidly.

Chu Xuan was surprised, "What did you say? The Parasitic Seeds sensed the scent of Psionic Cube and are now battling a foreign power? Interesting, let's go have a look."

Moments later, he returned to the farm.

Chu Xuan placed his hand on the Zombie Matriarch's head. With a sweep of his spiritual sense, he easily saw through the Zombie Matriarch to the scene where the Parasite Child was.

The Parasite Seeds were inhabiting a group of giant apes. These apes were as tall as a building, with thick skins and flesh.

The herds of giant apes charged forward. Wherever they went, the defensive lines formed by Superhumans were easily torn apart. Only tanks and artillery could inflict damage on them.

However, the apes were both intelligent and agile. Upon spotting tanks and artillery, they quickly maneuvered around or dispersed their formation. And swiftly dismantled those heavy weapons.

An entire strike force composed of third and fourth-level Superhumans couldn't delay this group of giant apes.

"The Harsha Dynasty?"

Chu Xuan noted the appearance and skin color of those Superhumans, slightly surprised.

The Harsha Dynasty was a major nation located south of the Han country. Vast, towering mountain ranges separated the two nations. Unexpectedly, the Parasite Seeds had drifted across the ocean to that location.

They had successfully landed, infested a group of giant apes, and directed them to attack the Superhumans of the Harsha Dynasty.

The Superhumans of the Harsha Dynasty were truly inept. They had no heart for battle and their morale was extremely low. Once casualties occurred, they fled in droves.

Chu Xuan estimated that perhaps one-third of the casualties were caused by the Harsha Dynasty's own Superhumans.

"Good, let your children do their best. If they can bring back fragments of the Psionic Cube, I'll reward you with three large Blood Pearls."

Chu Xuan smiled.

Immediately, the Zombie Matriarch's eyes widened, nodding vigorously.

The Spiritual Qi on Blue Star was scarce. Even consuming large Blood Pearls, zombies couldn't experience a rapid rise in cultivation levels like demonic cultivators; they could only increase their Psionic levels.

Both the Zombie Matriarch and the Zombie Empress had now reached the eighth level, only a step away from the ninth.

Just as Chu Xuan was about to leave, the Zombie Empress started to roar. With a sweep of his spiritual sense, he understood why the Zombie Empress was agitated. Its dispatched Corpse Boats had also detected the scent of Psionic Cubes.

However, the signal was very faint. And it was constantly moving. One moment it was in the southern seas, and the next, it had moved to the northern lands. Very peculiar.

"Let your children continue to track it; ideally, they should bring back fragments of the Psionic Cube on their own."

"What? You plan to build a new batch of Corpse Boats with built-in attack capabilities?"

"Sure, that's completely fine."

Chu Xuan nodded with a smile. He stroked his chin, thoughtful.

The appearance of two fragments of Psionic Cubes at once. It seemed that the completion of a full Psionic Cube was indeed imminent.

Chu Xuan was very confident in the capabilities of the Corpse Boats and the Parasite Child. He was also confident in the initiative of the Zombie Empress and Zombie Matriarch.

Motivated by the promise of large Blood Pearls, they would surely go all out to bring him the fragments of the Psionic Cubes. All he had to do was wait.

"The Thunder Crystals are almost used up; I need to buy some more. I've been cultivating on Sea Blue for five years, which equates to just five months on Mystic Azure Star. It's been quite some time; there should also be news from the Alliance of Twenty-Six Islands by now."

With a flicker, Chu Xuan returned to Mystic Azure Realm.

...

Black Dragon Mountain.

Chu Xuan had only returned for a few days when Song Junjie and Qian Tang brought him news.

"Master, our Hundred Refinement Sect and the Twenty-Six Islands Alliance have come to blows! It is said that the Twenty-Six Islands Alliance has overstepped its bounds, actually slaughtering an entire small market town of ours and assassinating two Golden Core cultivators!"

Upon hearing this news, Chu Xuan could not help but laugh. He had guessed right after all. It was truly a self-directed play. He wondered who the two sacrifices had been.

Casually, Chu Xuan asked, "Who were the two Golden Cores who died?"

Song Junjie recalled for a moment, "One surnamed Liu, the other Bai, both unknown to us."

Chu Xuan felt a twinge of sentiment. It seemed Yuan Zichu had not died. That was a relief. Had Yuan Zichu died, his possessions would have fallen into others' hands. What a waste that would have been.

Qian Tang chuckled slyly, "Our sect is now calling upon cultivators to head to the Myriad Islands Lake, to deliver a crushing blow to the Twenty-Six Islands Alliance."

Both of them possessed numerous demonic techniques and could be considered demonic cultivators. The two were exceedingly astute.

Having been with Chu Xuan for so long, they had learned much. At first, they had been unaware.

But now they had more or less figured out that those two unfortunate souls were probably just sacrifices for igniting the war.

The Hundred Refinement Sect wanted to annex the Twenty-Six Islands Alliance, using this incident merely as a moral pretext.

To swallow your territory, kill your people, seize your treasures, and still stand on the moral high ground to criticize you.

It was indeed a devastating act of heart and soul.

"Do you want to go?" Chu Xuan asked with a smile.

Song Junjie and Qian Tang immediately shook their heads, "No, no, we'll just stay here in our little plot of land at Black Dragon Mountain."

They were very clear in their minds. Chu Xuan would never let them leave.

Chu Xuan chuckled, "That's right, indulging in constant conflict is far from the righteous path. Although you cannot cultivate virtue, staying out of disputes is certainly wise."

Song Junjie and Qian Tang nodded in agreement, murmuring, "Yes, yes, Master is correct."

On Mystic Azure Star, two years passed in the blink of an eye.

The Hundred Refinement Sect, united and powerful, quickly subdued the disorganized Twenty-Six Islands Alliance.

Their Nascent Soul ancestor suffered a devastating defeat against the Nascent Soul ancestor of the Hundred Refinement Sect. He had no choice but to submit.

After conquering the Twenty-Six Islands Alliance, the Hundred Refinement Sect continued northward, advancing against other major forces around Myriad Islands Lake.

Shang Tianjue never appeared directly. But Miao Zizai's strength was formidable, unmatched by any Nascent Soul cultivator of the same realm. The territory of the Hundred Refinement Sect grew increasingly vast.

However, Chu Xuan felt that disaster was likely looming for the Hundred Refinement Sect.

Before the Feathered Ascension Palace could direct its wrath towards the Hundred Refinement Sect, it was time for him to withdraw.

...

"What? You're going to Myriad Islands Lake for a mission? Fellow daoist He, I thought you disliked conflict, so why the sudden interest in Myriad Islands Lake?"

Jian Yitong was quite surprised upon hearing Chu Xuan's plans.

Chu Xuan smiled, "I've been at Black Dragon Mountain for too long, tired of the same scenery. I wish to see other places."

Jian Yitong sighed deeply, "Well then, go ahead, I will look after your Black Dragon Mountain."

Chu Xuan lowered his voice, "That Snow Grease, she's actually an old crone, her beauty faded. Be wary."

Jian Yitong's pupils suddenly contracted, his mouth agape as he stared at Chu Xuan, unable to speak for a long while.

Chapter 157: Myriad Islands Lake

The Imperial Sky Mirror, initially offered willingly by Yuan Zichu, was a mid-grade flying magic treasure. Its speed far surpassed the Green Shadow Shuttle, the top-grade flying magic tool Chu Xuan had previously used, boasting a travel speed of five hundred li in a single hour.

From the southernmost to the northernmost tip of Yan Country spanned a full one hundred and twenty thousand li. Even with hurried travel, Chu Xuan would need an entire day.

However, he did not plan to rush at maximum speed. Rather leisurely was his approach.

He was not truly going to Myriad Islands Lake to fight on behalf of the Hundred Refinement Sect. He was merely seeking a geomantically blessed place to lay low for a while.

Although the forces at Myriad Islands Lake were mixed and varied, compared to Yan Country, which had been under the long-time management of the Hundred Refinement Sect, it was certainly much safer—even if the wrath of the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace were to pour down, it would not fall upon the heads of the cultivators at Myriad Islands Lake.

Moreover, as victims, the cultivators might even receive favorable treatment from the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace.

One hundred and twenty thousand li. Chu Xuan leisurely flew, taking nearly two days to arrive.

"Is that Myriad Islands Lake? Indeed, it is a vast inland sea!"

Chu Xuan gazed into the distance, already able to see a vast expanse of azure water. Above the water, the air was rich with moisture, and countless islands were scattered like stars strewn across the night sky.

In the blink of an eye, Chu Xuan's figure flashed past, landing atop one of the southernmost tower ships of Myriad Islands Lake.

The tower ship, moored at the shore, was surrounded by a dense array of houses and shacks. This cluster of tower ships formed the Treasure Ship Market, the largest trading market established by the Hundred Refinement Sect in this area.

As for the surrounding houses and shacks, they were the residences of low-level cultivators eking out a living. Most of them were Qi Refining cultivators.

Any cultivator who had reached the Foundation Establishment stage would not choose to live in such filthy and chaotic shack areas. At the very least, they would own a tower ship, residing in the tower ship district around the Treasure Ship Market.

Chu Xuan glanced over the shacks but did not look further.

In every world, there are those who live at the bottom. Even those exalted as immortals in the eyes of mortals are just low-level cultivators like these Qi Refining ones.

Chu Xuan shook his head and approached the periphery of the Treasure Ship Market's formation.

People had already noticed the streak of light in the sky.

With a flick of his wrist, the Golden Core elder's token flew out immediately. The Treasure Ship Market was stirred into action.

Moments later, a Golden Core cultivator and four Foundation Establishment cultivators came together.

"May I know which fellow daoist has graced us with their presence…"

Yuan Zichu greeted them with a bow and a smile, only to stiffen when he saw a familiar face.

You said you disliked conflict and would not come. Why have you appeared again? Oh, men! How quickly their faces change!

"How is it, fellow daoist Yuan, are you not welcoming me here?" Chu Xuan said with a smile.

Yuan Zichu shook his head vigorously, "Not at all, not at all, fellow daoist He, please come in!"

The four Foundation Establishment cultivators exchanged glances, none daring to speak further.

Yuan Zichu was exceptionally talented, blessed by the heavens, and advanced rapidly in his cultivation, loyal and true. He was highly valued by the sect leader.

There were four Golden Core elders in the Treasure Ship Market, and the other three held Yuan Zichu in high regard.

However, in the presence of this new Golden Core elder, Yuan Zichu unusually showed a hint of reverence.

Could this person's strength surpass even Elder Yuan?

The largest tower ship in the Treasure Ship Market was a four-story structure named "Treasure Ship Number," the true hub of trading activities.

However, this "Treasure Ship Number" was too noisy and bustling with people. Golden Core cultivators naturally would not reside there.

There were several large tower ships floating outside the market specifically prepared as aquatic abodes for Golden Core cultivators.

However, as Chu Xuan was new to the area, he did not yet have such an aquatic abode.

Thus, Yuan Zichu invited Chu Xuan aboard the "Listening Rain Number."

This tower ship was specially used by the Treasure Ship Market to welcome guests.

The two settled in, and the four Foundation Establishment cultivators promptly excused themselves. Soon after, a graceful female cultivator stepped forward, presenting them with spiritual tea.

Yuan Zichu smiled, "This tea is called Fragrant Snow White, sweet and refreshing. A tael of Fragrant Snow White costs a thousand small spiritual stones."

Chu Xuan immediately shook his head. Although the tea was freshly brewed before him, the tea leaves had not been inspected, and the source of the water was unknown. He chose not to drink.

Yuan Zichu, a perceptive man, recognized Chu Xuan's caution. He simply slapped his storage bag and took out three small paper packets. "Here are three taels of Fragrant Snow White that I bought for fellow daoist Zhu as a gift. I have some extra, so I'll give it to fellow daoist He."

After a brief scan with his spiritual sense and detecting nothing amiss, Chu Xuan accepted it with a smile. How could he refuse a gift offered so willingly?

After some pleasantries, Chu Xuan had a good understanding of the current situation at the Treasure Ship Market. Including the newly arrived Chu Xuan, there were five Golden Core cultivators in the market.

Yuan Zichu and Zhu Yuchao were the regulars, while the other three were leading cultivators in attacks against other forces around Myriad Islands Lake, like the Dragon Fish Sect based on Dragon Fish Island and the Curio Alliance formed by several cultivator families.

As they spoke, footsteps suddenly sounded from outside. Yuan Zichu seemed to recognize the noise and immediately stood up. "It must be fellow daoist Zhu."

The next moment, a stunning woman in a lake blue gown stepped through the doorway. Her slender waist and commanding presence, combined with her porcelain skin, made her an unparalleled beauty.

Chu Xuan glanced at Yuan Zichu and understood the convoluted connections. Yuan Zichu had spoken of coming to Myriad Islands Lake to serve the sect, and Chu Xuan had thought he would be on the frontlines. Instead, he was stationed at the Treasure Ship Market.

Now Chu Xuan saw the reason—Yuan Zichu was here for Zhu Yuchao. But that was normal; a graceful lady is a worthy companion. Cultivators, not entirely devoid of desires, naturally could be ensnared by affection.

Chu Xuan was different. He simply thought that Zhu Yuchao was too slender, hardly having enough flesh on her. Surely, Hu and the others would not favor such a meal.

What a pity, indeed.

"Fellow daoist Yuan," Zhu Yuchao nodded lightly, her smile gentle.

Yuan Zichu responded with an embarrassed chuckle.

Noticing Chu Xuan's gaze, Zhu Yuchao felt a sense of oddity.

His look was unlike most; it wasn't as if he saw her as a person. Rather, she felt regarded more like a piece of ambulatory meat. Almost instinctively, she categorized Chu Xuan as someone best kept at a distance.

Yuan Zichu promptly introduced, "Fellow daoist Zhu, this is He Liang of Black Dragon Mountain, a fellow daoist. He has come to the Treasure Ship Market specifically in response to the sect's call."

Hearing this name, Zhu Yuchao paused, then exclaimed in surprise, "You are the one from Black Dragon Mountain, that Black Heart—ah, I mean, fellow daoist He?"

The internal strife of Black Dragon Mountain was well-known within the Hundred Refinement Sect. It would have been hard for her not to know of it. She had also heard about the Golden Core elder from Black Dragon Mountain's harsh treatment of his disciples, which she had found quite cruel at the time. She had not expected to meet the man himself today.

Chu Xuan's smile was ambiguous, "Indeed, fellow daoist Zhu, you've heard of my nickname? Black Heart, I actually find it rather fitting."

Chapter 158: I Had Sparred with Him Before, Our Strengths Equally Matched

Zhu Yuchao swallowed nervously. Just from the look in his eyes earlier, she instinctively felt that he was not the right sort to get close to. Now knowing his identity, she wanted nothing more than to distance herself as far as possible from the infamous 'Black Heart Elder'.

Hearing Chu Xuan's comment, Zhu Yuchao managed an awkward smile, "That's just careless talk among the disciples. Please, fellow daoist He, pay it no mind."

Yuan Zichu coughed lightly, turning to Chu Xuan, "This is fellow daoist Zhu Yuchao, a mid-stage Golden Core cultivator, and one of our sect's foremost array masters in the Golden Core stage!"

Chu Xuan raised an eyebrow.

An array master? That was rare.

Array, pill, and talisman—among them, array crafting was the most difficult to master, and its practitioners held in the highest esteem. The Hundred Refinement Sect would surely treat Zhu Yuchao like a treasure. Why then was she at Myriad Islands Lake?

However, recalling that the Hundred Refinement Sect was now under the control of Shang Tianjue, Chu Xuan dismissed his scattered thoughts.

What the 'Overlord' was thinking, he had no idea. The current actions of the Hundred Refinement Sect could not be judged by the normal standards of a sect.

After brief introductions and pleasantries, Zhu Yuchao politely said, "Fellow daoist He, as per tradition, the Treasure Ship Market will construct a waterborne cave abode for you to reside in. Of course, you are also free to choose any island as your dwelling."

Chu Xuan waved his hand, "No need to trouble yourselves, I'll just pick an island to stay on temporarily. I don't plan to reside in the cave abode for long. I am here to serve the sect and to severely check the arrogance of the Myriad Islands Lake cultivators."

Whether the cultivators of Myriad Islands Lake were indeed arrogant, he did not know. But the behavior of the Hundred Refinement Sect's cultivators, beating others and then scolding them for arrogance, was certainly haughty.

As for the waterborne cave abode, he truly did not want it. If it wasn't built under his supervision, how could he accept it? Who knew if there were any traps?

It was best to establish his own cave abode. In any case, he wouldn't stay long. He'd find an opportunity and slip away to Blue Star soon enough.

Seeing Chu Xuan's decision, Zhu Yuchao breathed a sigh of relief. As an array master, she was responsible for overseeing the construction of all the waterborne cave abodes for the Golden Core cultivators. His refusal naturally meant less work for her.

Yuan Zichu then fetched a storage bag and handed it to Chu Xuan.

"Fellow daoist He, this contains the sect's rewards," Yuan Zichu said, handing over a storage bag. "If fellow daoist He eliminates Golden Core cultivators from the Dragon Fish Sect or the Curio Alliance, additional rewards will be granted upon reporting back to the sect."

Chu Xuan nodded, accepting the bag, then casually inquired, "Regarding the location for establishing a cave abode, do either of you have any recommendations?"

Zhu Yuchao thought for a moment, "I know that about one thousand five hundred li to the northeast, there is a Peach Blossom Island with a third-tier spirit vein. The Peach Blossom Sect there has already been eradicated by fellow daoist Yuan."

"I'm not too familiar with other areas," she added.

Yuan Zichu took over the conversation, "To the northwest, four thousand li away, lies Azure Spirit Island, which also houses a third-tier spirit vein, though of slightly inferior quality.

Directly to the north, five thousand li away, is Flowing Clouds Island, which has two third-tier spirit veins, one of which has already been claimed by Daoist Zhao Benhe."

Third-tier spirit veins, abundant in Spiritual Qi, are most suitable for Golden Core cultivators.

Zhu Yuchao and Yuan Zichu made no mention of the lower second and first-tier veins, which, while adequate for Foundation Establishment and Qi Refining cultivators, are too sparse to support the energy needs of Golden Core cultivators or serve as a foundation for arrays.

Yuan Zichu straightforwardly produced a jade slip, "Fellow daoist He, this has a map I've inscribed with my spiritual sense. You can examine it closely and choose an island. Let me know once the cave abode is established."

He seemed somewhat impatient.

Chu Xuan smiled, accepting the jade slip and rising to his feet, "Thank you, fellow daoist Yuan."

He could tell Yuan Zichu was eager for him to leave, likely wanting more time with Zhu Yuchao. Chu Xuan wasn't keen on lingering either. Examining a spiritual map was certainly faster than back-and-forth conversations.

After Chu Xuan departed, Zhu Yuchao whispered, "This He Liang is no easy mark..."

Yuan Zichu smiled slightly, "Fellow daoist He is powerful. I've sparred with him before, and our strengths... were evenly matched."

Zhu Yuchao appeared surprised, "Fellow daoist Yuan, you're exceptionally talented and now a mid-stage Golden Core. He can match you? That's impressive."

Yuan Zichu coughed a few times, his response muffled, "Indeed. We just need to avoid provoking him."

Zhu Yuchao nodded in agreement, "I definitely won't provoke him. He looks quite fierce. It seems fellow daoist Yuan would make a much better friend."

A friend, perhaps?

Yuan Zichu's gaze darkened slightly. But then he brightened at the thought of potentially advancing beyond mere friendship in the future.

Such a good match must not be missed! Even if Zhu Yuchao's dao companion were to get angry, he must not back down...

...

At dusk, Chu Xuan arrived at Azure Spirit Island.

The island was small, with a relatively inferior spirit vein, and not many mortals resided there.

As for cultivable spirit fields, they were even rarer. The only noteworthy feature was a lake called Azure Fish Lake, home to some tasty spiritual fish. He had chosen this island for several reasons.

Peach Blossom Island had an excellent spirit vein and a peach grove, but it was too close to the Treasure Ship Market.

Flowing Clouds Island was large, but another Golden Core cultivator already resided there. Other islands with third-tier spirit veins had their own minor issues.

Azure Spirit Island, however, met his requirements perfectly. The quality of the spirit vein was secondary; distance from the hustle and bustle was paramount—yet not so remote as to arouse the suspicion of other Golden Core cultivators.

Smoke was already rising on Azure Spirit Island, a sign that the mortals were preparing dinner. According to Yuan Zichu's jade slip, the island was currently guarded by one Foundation Establishment cultivator and five Qi Refining cultivators.

There were also about five hundred mortal households. In the wars of cultivators, unless deliberately targeted, mortals were rarely affected. All they knew was that Azure Spirit Island's former sect had been destroyed.

Upon his arrival, Chu Xuan released his Golden Core aura, enveloping the entire island. In the blink of an eye, six figures rushed out to greet him.

The leader, a thin middle-aged cultivator, bowed respectfully, "Tang Xiang, the Hundred Refinements Sect's Foundation Establishment cultivator, greets the elder!"

The five behind him followed suit, bowing respectfully, though they did not offer their names.

Chu Xuan displayed his Golden Core elder token, "My name is He Liang. From today, Azure Spirit Island is under my control. You may stay if you wish, or leave if you prefer."

He did not need extra people. Having these cultivators remain on the island was a potential risk.

Tang Xiang and the others promptly responded, "We wish to stay!"

Chu Xuan's eyebrows rose, but then he relaxed. Perhaps the name He Liang did not carry enough deterrence. Maybe it was time for a change.

Black Dragon Mountain should hold a bit more sway than He Liang.

Chapter 159: Impersonating a Title and Stealing Kills

Chu Xuan surveyed the highest peak on Azure Spirit Island and casually remarked, "Hmm, this peak resembles Black Dragon Mountain. In the future, it should be reshaped to look like Black Dragon Mountain."

Black Dragon Mountain?!

Tang Xiang, who had been extremely respectful until now, shuddered uncontrollably at the name, his voice tinged with disbelief, "Senior... you are the Golden Core ancestor from Black Dragon Mountain?"

The five Qi Refining cultivators behind him trembled as well. It was as if they had heard the name of something forbidden.

Chu Xuan chuckled, "Yes, have you heard of me?"

Tang Xiang swallowed hard, "We have heard, we have heard of your renown."

His eyes darted around as he quickly said, "Senior, I misspoke earlier. I... do not wish to stay here. I would like to go to the front lines to fight. Please forgive me."

The Qi Refining cultivators nodded vigorously in agreement, "Yes, yes! We feel the same!"

Chu Xuan scoffed coldly, "You are afraid of me, aren't you?"

His Golden Core aura burst forth.

Tang Xiang and the others nearly collapsed in fright. They shrank back, not daring to utter another word.

"Scram," Chu Xuan snorted coldly.

With a sweep of his sleeve, a fierce wind howled out.

Tang Xiang and the others were blown about, tumbling over each other.

"Thank you, senior! Thank you, senior!" they cried out as they scrambled to their feet and hurried away, not wanting to stay a moment longer.

The reputation of the "Black Heart Ancestor" of Black Dragon Mountain was well known throughout the Hundred Refinement Sect. How could they be unaware?

Initially, they had been curious about who would take possession of Azure Spirit Island. If it had been a powerful Golden Core elder, they might have been able to mix in and perhaps reap some benefits from the war.

But now, seeing that it was the "Black Heart Ancestor," they fled without a second thought.

They feared dying at the hands of the "Black Heart Ancestor" more than dying in battle.

"My title as the Black Heart Ancestor of Black Dragon Mountain indeed carries some deterrent power," Chu Xuan mused as he watched them flee in utter disarray, a smirk playing on his lips.

With a flash, he moved to the highest peak of Azure Spirit Island.

This peak was where the Azure Spirit Sect, a minor Foundation Establishment sect that had already been annihilated by the Hundred Refinement Sect, used to be.

Now, only ruins remained.

Tang Xiang and his group had previously been stationed among these ruins.

"Let these ruins remain," Chu Xuan decided as he followed the trail of spiritual Qi. Arriving at a spot where the Qi was particularly dense, he selected a cliffside and began to violently smash it with his Evil Soul Chain, quickly excavating a cave abode.

The cave didn't need to be luxurious. As long as it had the essentials, it would suffice. After all, he didn't plan to stay long.

Once the cave was carved out, Chu Xuan immediately began setting up an array. Due to the presence of a third-tier spirit vein, the array could function without the need for additional spirit stones. As long as the spirit vein existed, the array would continue to operate.

The array he installed was a mid-grade Golden Core array known as the Fierce Wind Golden Blade Array. This formation served both as a maze and a killing field.

Normally, it appeared as nothing more than a mist. However, if someone attempted to forcefully enter, it would unleash fierce winds and golden blades to attack the intruder.

After fully establishing the array, Chu Xuan sat down on a stone bed to contemplate his next moves.

Vanishing abruptly wasn't ideal. It would be better to disappear during a sect mission after some time, ostensibly after encountering a "powerful enemy" and suffering severe injuries, ultimately leading to his mysterious disappearance. This way, as long as he performed convincingly, it wouldn't arouse suspicion.

"For the next few days, I'll eliminate a few minor sects to demonstrate my loyalty," Chu Xuan planned in his mind.

Soon, the four Golden Core cultivators at the Treasure Ship Market witnessed a He Liang who was fiercely loyal to the sect, risking his life for its cause. He dared to attack sects others feared to confront and fought Golden Core cultivators others hesitated to challenge. In essence, he killed those others dared to kill and even those they dared not!

Before long, the moniker "Black Heart Old Devil" of the Hundred Refinement Sect began to circulate around the Myriad Islands Lake. Just hearing his name made others flee in terror.

That day, Chu Xuan flattened another sect, slaying a Golden Core cultivator and looking upon the ruins with a shake of his head. It wasn't that he didn't want to find the right moment to escape; the cultivators of Myriad Islands Lake were simply too weak!

Even if he wanted to feign a struggle, it was impossible. He couldn't just charge at an early Golden Core cultivator, have his opponent cough up blood from the impact, remain completely unscathed himself, and then loudly proclaim he had been gravely injured. That would be far too implausible.

Chu Xuan sighed lightly as he surveyed the Myriad Islands Lake, "Myriad Islands Lake, is there no formidable character among you?"

A throng of Foundation Establishment and Qi Refining cultivators rushed to take over the ruins he had flattened. The way these cultivators looked at Chu Xuan was filled with awe.

To date, six Golden Core cultivators from the Hundred Refinement Sect had come to the Treasure Ship Market.

One unfortunate soul, overzealous for achievements, had been ambushed by two Golden Core cultivators from Myriad Islands Lake and had suffered severe injuries, forcing him to retreat to the sect. The rest had faced defeats in various forms.

Yet, the one known as the Black Heart Ancestor stood undefeated, having battled and bested four Golden Core cultivators from Myriad Islands Lake, slaying three of them. He had single-handedly razed over a dozen large and small sects.

Such a distinguished record of victories commanded respect and admiration from all within the Hundred Refinement Sect.

However, if asked whether they wished to train under the Black Heart Ancestor, hundreds, if not thousands, would express their reluctance. Admiration was one thing, but leaping into the fire was quite another.

Watching the Hundred Refinement Sect's cultivators bustling about cleaning up the battlefield, Chu Xuan suddenly recalled a troubling matter.

"It seems someone has been using my name recently, wreaking havoc around Myriad Islands Lake. This person had better not cross paths with me."

Chu Xuan remembered instances where he had arrived only to find that the local sects had already been annihilated, the blood on the ground not yet cold. Impersonating him was one thing, but the fact that this impostor was intercepting his loot—a line Chu Xuan could not tolerate being crossed.

Such a person was indeed courting death.

...

"Feast well, the more you eat, the better for your advancement," Chu Xuan advised as he pulled the remains of various cultivators from the Tower, handing them over to Long, Hu, and Bao.

During this period, he had eliminated numerous Golden Core cultivators from Myriad Islands Lake. The number of Foundation Establishment cultivators he had slain was even greater, and their remains nearly formed a small mountain within the Tower.

Long and Bao having consumed the Grand Yin Mystic Evil Pills, had steadily ascended to the rank of Corpse Commanders.

Hu had already advanced to Corpse Commander and was now rapidly progressing, having reached the fourth level.

What surprised Chu Xuan even more was that, after observing him a few times, Hu had managed to learn a wood-based spell.

Normally, corpse puppets could only use their innate spells and struggled to acquire new ones.

Although the spell Hu learned was merely a minor Entanglement Technique, this marked a significant departure from the capabilities of most corpse puppets.

"A corpse puppet capable of learning spells, tsk, might well become a legend among corpse puppets," Chu Xuan mused. "The combination of a corpse puppet with a spiritual root hasn't shown any problems yet... but perhaps it's still too early to say. Continuous observation is necessary."

Chu Xuan remained vigilant and never too relaxed about this matter.

"I wonder how things are going with the Hundred Refinement Sect. Has the Feather Transformation Heaven Palace not yet discovered Shang Tianjue's appearance? Or are they too busy searching for Shang Xingchen the Ghost Dragon and haven't noticed the situation in the Southern Wilderness?"

"That might be the case... Central Continent is too far from the Southern Wilderness, and the Transformation Heaven Palace likely only has one or two ways to directly contact the Southern Wilderness. Such methods of contact must be costly, certainly not something to be used frequently..."

Chu Xuan pondered thoughtfully.