Murong Xue said, "I sense eight presences, all in the Earth Fiend Stage."
Ji Zixuan calculated briefly, "If a fight breaks out, how many can you handle?"
Murong Xue remained silent, confused as to why things were escalating toward a fight so quickly.
"Do we really need to resort to violence? Wouldn't it be better to try talking it out?"
Upon hearing this, Ji Zixuan realized that this naive girl wouldn't be of much help in combat. So, without saying another word, she began preparing herself.
Moments later, the two Airships had already entered attack range.
Murong Xue immediately used her wind technique to send a warning, "Everyone, we just entered this area. We're only passing through and haven't taken any treasures…"
However, her words had no effect.
On the contrary, the Bloodshadow Ship accelerated, and when it got within a thousand meters, eight harpoons shot out toward the Swordfish Airship.
The harpoon heads were four meters long, sharp and diamond-shaped, with chains attached to them, the other end connected to the Bloodshadow Ship.
It was clear—the Bloodshadow Ship intended to capture the Swordfish Airship.
"What?" Murong Xue was shocked, not expecting the enemy to attack without even a word.
However, Ji Zixuan had already anticipated this and deftly maneuvered the ship into a spinning evasive maneuver.
This was a high-level Airship technique, but Ji Zixuan executed it with ease.
Swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh—bang!
Seven of the harpoons were evaded, but one managed to break through the ship's defenses and lodged into the hull.
Creak creak creak! The harpoon expanded, quickly latching onto the Swordfish Airship.
Despite Ji Zixuan's superb skills, she couldn't fully prevent the Bloodshadow Ship's capture technique.
Upon landing their hit, the Bloodshadow Ship immediately changed direction, descending sharply.
Crash! The thick black chain went taut.
The Swordfish Airship, too, was pulled, and began plummeting out of control toward the ground below.
Murong Xue stumbled, nearly falling over.
"Hurry up and fight!" Ji Zixuan shouted as she struggled to keep the ship under control, "Do you want to wait until they bind us completely?"
Murong Xue gritted her teeth and used her wind technique to stabilize the ship's trajectory, preventing it from crashing.
With her assistance, Ji Zixuan finally regained control of the ship, averting disaster for the moment.
But even now, the Bloodshadow Ship continued to drag the Swordfish Airship toward a nearby mountain peak.
"You take control of the ship," Ji Zixuan barked. "I'll deal with them."
Without waiting for Murong Xue's response, Ji Zixuan jumped from the ship, transforming into a blur as she sped toward the Bloodshadow Ship.
At this moment, Zhao Xing came online.
He immediately felt the intense shaking of the ship, realizing they were under attack.
"Hm?"
Zhao Xing's nine Myriad Law Straw Puppets all opened their eyes simultaneously, gazing ahead.
In an instant, he understood—they had encountered bandits.
Using his Heavenly Eye Technique, Zhao Xing observed the Bloodshadow Ship and quickly gauged the enemy's strength.
"Eight Earth Fiend Stage fighters, not particularly strong," Zhao Xing noted, and commanded his Myriad Law Straw Puppets to fly toward the Bloodshadow Ship.
"Four warriors and four spellcasters," he assessed.
At the moment, he had activated his Invisible Straw Puppet.
None of the people below, not even Ji Zixuan, noticed his presence.
Zhao Xing wasn't in a hurry to make a move. He had complete control over the situation and wanted to take this opportunity to observe Ji Zixuan's strength.
Against such low-level opponents, Zhao Xing could crush them easily, even with just his Myriad Law avatars.
Swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh~
Ji Zixuan, wielding a thin sword, became a silver streak of light, quickly diving into the encirclement.
"She's fast—this girl doesn't fight like someone who just entered the Earth Fiend Stage," Zhao Xing observed with interest.
He recognized that Ji Zixuan was using the Bishui Sword Technique, one of the core sword techniques of the Bishui Dao Academy.
Charging into the midst of battle, Ji Zixuan simultaneously faced four warriors in close combat and the spells cast by four distant spellcasters.
Clang clang clang clang!
Despite wielding a thin sword, the force behind Ji Zixuan's strikes was immense, as if the sword contained unimaginable strength.
"She's wielding it effortlessly, but that sword must weigh a thousand pounds!" Zhao Xing was a bit surprised, recognizing the extraordinary quality of the sword.
Although it was only a fifth-rank divine weapon, the materials used to forge it were sufficient to craft seven or eight fifth-rank weapons.
Swoosh! The thin sword deflected a joint strike from the four warriors, and Ji Zixuan suddenly appeared beside one of the southern enemies.
Her sword stabbed forward lightly, and the blade-wielding warrior's face immediately changed.
He felt as though countless swords were stabbing toward him, making it impossible to block them all.
Moreover, she was far too fast.
He swung his war blade, trying to protect his vital points.
"Mountain of a Thousand Layers!"
The Mountain of a Thousand Layers was a defensive blade technique. When executed, it seemed as though a towering mountain appeared before the warrior.
However, it was clear this person's mastery was lacking, as the mountain's shadow was full of gaps.
Only his vital points were well-guarded, with many weak spots elsewhere.
But as long as he could withstand this sword strike, he could force this daring woman to pay the price, as three of his teammates were already attacking Ji Zixuan's back.
Though under attack from behind, Ji Zixuan unwaveringly delivered her sword strike.
Pfft!
The thin sword pierced through the warrior's throat.
It passed through from behind him.
Meanwhile, Ji Zixuan, who had been standing in front of him, was struck by a fire spell, her body catching fire.
However, her burning form vanished, leaving behind only a half-burned talisman.
"Huh…" The blade-wielding warrior's eyes widened. He couldn't believe that the sword had struck him from behind.
It turned out the figure was just an illusion… and he died with his eyes open, falling toward the ground.
Simultaneously, the other three warriors' attacks hit nothing but air.
They, too, had been fooled by Ji Zixuan's Talisman Phantom.
"As expected, she is indeed the Shadow Assassin who served under Princess You Ruo in her past life!" Zhao Xing observed. "Shadow Assassins are known for their eerie, unpredictable techniques, especially their use of talismans."
Combining talismans with combat was no simple feat. Mastery over timing was crucial, and it required deep knowledge of the talismans themselves. This meant that Ji Zixuan not only knew how to use talismans but was also skilled in creating them.
"She hasn't yet achieved the Talisman Body level, but her Talisman Phantom is enough to confuse these people. With her speed, it seems I don't need to intervene," Zhao Xing thought.
The Bishui Dao Academy, one of the seventy-two Dao Academies of the Great Zhou, was incredibly difficult to graduate from. Ji Zixuan's accomplishments were on par with Zhao Xing's achievements during his military training as a Shennong Officer.
The battle unfolded exactly as Zhao Xing expected.
Throughout the fight, Ji Zixuan used four Talisman Phantoms, making it nearly impossible to tell which was real.
Zhao Xing could only distinguish between them using his Heavenly Eye of Fate.
The others were utterly confused, utterly played by Ji Zixuan.
The four spellcasters aboard the ship never managed to hit Ji Zixuan with their magic, and they couldn't use wide-range spells with their teammates caught in the middle.
Pfft!
Before long, a second warrior fell, slain by Ji Zixuan's sword, plummeting to the ground below.
She expertly combined the Bishui Sword Technique with her Talisman Phantoms, making a mockery of both the four close-combat warriors and the four spellcasters aboard the ship.
By the time she killed the third warrior, the spellcasters had already begun to think of retreating.
"Unhook the chain! Start the ship!"
One of the fire spellcasters quickly severed the chain connecting the Bloodshadow Ship to the Swordfish Airship.
He then turned, intending to flee by controlling the ship.
Swoosh!
With a flick of her wrist, Ji Zixuan hurled a throwing knife, striking the fire spellcaster in the back.
Buzz!
The bloodied knife embedded itself into the ship's doorframe, quivering violently.
"The Bishui Sword Technique combined with the Talisman Phantoms is incredibly well-timed. She can even split her focus to throw a knife—fighting eight enemies at once with strength to spare," Zhao Xing mused with approval.
"Please spare us!" The remaining three spellcasters aboard the ship broke down, begging for their lives.
Ji Zixuan didn't say a word. She swiftly killed the last warrior, then leaped aboard the ship.
Once spellcasters are caught in close combat, they're nothing more than easy prey.
Pfft pfft pfft!
The three spellcasters were quickly skewered, their blood spraying across the deck.
Without anyone controlling it, the Bloodshadow Ship came to a halt.
However, the Swordfish Airship, where Murong Xue was still aboard, began to plummet out of control.
"Rise!"
Zhao Xing used his Windforce Technique, lifting the ship back into the air. He still had some important things on board, and he couldn't afford to let it be destroyed.
When Zhao Xing reappeared, Ji Zixuan finally realized he had been standing right next to the Bloodshadow Ship all along.
"When did he get there…?" Ji Zixuan's pupils contracted in shock.
She was a seventh-rank fighter, but she prided herself on being able to hold her own against sixth-rank opponents, perhaps even killing them if the situation allowed.
Yet, Zhao Xing, a mere sixth-rank, had completely hidden his presence, quietly appearing beside her without her even noticing.
"You did well," Zhao Xing said, his gaze falling on Ji Zixuan.
"Thank you for the praise, Senior Brother," Ji Zixuan lowered her head. Though she couldn't read Zhao Xing's abilities, he could see through her with just a glance.
His strength is far greater than I imagined… Ji Zixuan thought to herself.
…
The Swordfish Airship was beyond repair; the harpoon had damaged it too severely. After cleaning up, Zhao Xing, Ji Zixuan, and Murong Xue transferred to the Bloodshadow Ship.
The Bloodshadow Ship was a standard military-grade weapon, better equipped for both assault and combat than the Swordfish Ship.
Once everything was in order, Murong Xue felt uneasy. After all, it had been Ji Zixuan who killed all those people, while she had done nothing, merely helping to correct the ship's trajectory at the beginning, and nearly letting it crash in the end.
"Why didn't you fight earlier?" Zhao Xing asked Murong Xue.
Though he had "logged out" earlier, he hadn't completely disconnected and had caught up on the conversation when he reconnected.
"I thought they were all citizens of the Great Zhou, so…" Murong Xue said.
"And now?" Zhao Xing asked, understanding that Murong Xue hadn't been in battle before, given her noble upbringing and constant protection.
"If I were stronger, I would've taught them a lesson and driven them away," Murong Xue said. "Killing isn't always the best solution."
"And if they refuse to listen to reason, then gain a fortuitous encounter a few days later, becoming stronger than you, and come back for revenge, what would you do?" Zhao Xing asked.
"I…" Murong Xue opened her mouth but found herself at a loss for words.
"Speak your mind, don't hold back," Zhao Xing urged.
"Shennong Officers rely on the heavens for food, helping the weak. We should act with compassion," Murong Xue said. "Sir, you're too cold-hearted, seeing people in the worst light."
Zhao Xing nodded, "You're right about Shennong Officers serving the people. Compassion must be applied wisely, though. Open your eyes and look—do you see commoners entering the Ten Sun Cave-Heaven?"
"In my eyes, Shennong Officers don't rely on heaven for food; they fight the heavens for it!"
"If the world were always peaceful, with abundant harvests every year, there would be no need for Shennong Officers!"
"Sir, you're a Military Shennong Officer," Murong Xue huffed. "Of course, you're used to fighting."
She added, "The court allowing unrestricted slaughter in these trials is clearly flawed."
Zhao Xing couldn't help but laugh. This girl was stubborn, and since she couldn't win the argument, she was now blaming the system.
"Complaining to me is pointless. Neither of us makes the rules," Zhao Xing said. "Instead of complaining, why not learn to adapt, grow stronger, and become someone who can make the rules?"
Murong Xue fell silent, feeling her worldview being challenged.
Zhao Xing hadn't intended to preach, but since he'd been tasked with mentoring Murong Xue by his teacher, he couldn't let her continue with such a naive mindset.
He added one final point, "You can be kind-hearted if you want, but remember, you're not acting alone. Ji Zixuan and I are your teammates now."
"If they are our enemies, the greatest respect we can give them is to eliminate them completely."
"You came here to train, not to take a vacation. If next time you hesitate again, you'll become a burden."
"If you disagree, let your teacher know and have him find someone else to take you under their wing. That's all I'll say—think it over carefully."
Zhao Xing's words were harsh, but he wasn't here to play the role of a babysitter. If someone wanted to compete in such a brutal environment yet refused to fight, they would only drag others down.
"Yes," Murong Xue bowed and left.
When Ji Zixuan saw Murong Xue leave, clearly upset, she couldn't help but smirk.
Earlier, when she had asked Murong Xue to fight, the girl had responded by suggesting they talk it out? How naive!
Now she had even questioned Zhao Xing's decisions. Ji Zixuan found the situation all too amusing.
There's no way someone like Zhao Xing, who climbed from a mere low-level official to his current position, would appreciate Murong Xue's soft-heartedness.
"If he doesn't like her, maybe he'll appreciate my way of doing things. I wonder how much he likes it?" Ji Zixuan composed herself when she heard Zhao Xing call her into the cabin.
"Senior Brother."
"Hmm," Zhao Xing nodded. "We're heading out to find Spirit Treasures. Do you have anything you particularly want?"
Ji Zixuan was inwardly delighted but didn't show it on her face. "Whatever Senior Brother decides, I'll use whatever we find."
"Greedy, huh? So you want everything," Zhao Xing chuckled, knowing that those who said they didn't care were usually the pickiest.
"Senior Brother saw through me," Ji Zixuan responded playfully.
"Alright, keep controlling the ship as I instructed."
Zhao Xing intended to give Ji Zixuan more benefits—after all, the future Shadow Assassin would be worth the investment of some effort.
"Yes," Ji Zixuan exited the cabin.
The Airship sailed smoothly from then on, without encountering any other teams.
The Southern Clear Garden was large, and though it held over a thousand people, it was still difficult to run into others.
Using his Five-Finger Fate Technique, Zhao Xing quickly led the two women to a spot where they found a Primordial Spirit Treasure.
It was a peach grove, filled with pink blossoms, except for one particularly short tree, which bore golden flowers.
The fruit from this tree could enhance one's Yuan-gathering ability and improve their understanding of Wood Element techniques.
Zhao Xing instructed the two women to gather the fruit, and they meditated under the tree to absorb its essence.
Time flew by, and a day and a half passed in the blink of an eye.
Back on the Kirin Airship, Zhao Xing's true body had long since awakened.
As the surroundings grew darker, he knew they were nearing the Extreme Night Sea.
"Where are we now?" Xia Jing came over. "It's so dark, and everything is constantly changing. I can hardly recognize where we are."
"We should have just passed Songxue Lake," Zhao Xing replied.
"Oh, I remember that place." Xia Jing nodded. He and Zhao Xing had teamed up during a Supply Training mission, and it was here that Zhao Xing had farmed.
He had even used the Five Elements Earth-Splitting Technique to disrupt the water veins beneath the frozen earth, softening it.
"Even Songxue Lake has thawed now," Xia Jing remarked as he observed the changing scenery. "The Warden of Martial Arts once said that the lake hadn't thawed in a thousand years. I never imagined it would melt in just two years."
"The elevation of the Cave-Heaven has caused the world to undergo dramatic changes. Phenomena that were once rare are now common," Chen Shijie said. "While the current chaos is unsettling, it will ultimately give rise to countless blessed lands."
"World-altering events, the birth and death of spiritual lands—this is a rare opportunity for those of us passing through. Truly, it's a blessing earned over many lifetimes," Ji Zixuan said with a smile. "Don't you think so, Zhao Xing?"
Zhao Xing nodded but thought to himself: When the ten suns rise into the sky, you won't be thinking the same. You'll just be thankful you got out in time.
"Zhao Xing, what do you think we'll find here? Can you divine it?" Xia Jing asked.
"Do you think I'm a fortune teller?" Zhao Xing joked, "We'll have to observe the signs in the sky."
At this moment, the sky above the Extreme Night Sea was filled with flashing auroras, howling snowstorms, and raging tornadoes. The sky shifted between green and red, accompanied by thunderous booms.
Mirages also appeared in the sky, with various images flashing by.
In one, a golden carp leaped from the sea, devouring Yuan Qi.
In another, an island filled with divine trees bloomed into view.
The celestial phenomena continued to shift, making it seem as if treasures were scattered everywhere.
"The Extreme Night Sea was already the most spectacular sight in the north. Now, with these phenomena, who knows how many people have come here," Xia Jing remarked.
"Anyone who comes to the Extreme Night Sea won't be weak. We must be cautious," Ji Zixuan reminded everyone. "The area is too vast to set up any Forgetfulness Monuments, so we must be on our guard."
The ship sailed for a while longer, with Zhao Xing at the helm, continuously searching.
His Five-Finger Fate Technique had reached an advanced level, allowing him to gather information about potential opportunities.
"There's a region in the Extreme Night Sea where a large number of Spirit Fish are about to emerge. I wonder if it's started yet," Zhao Xing said, gazing northeast over the sea from the deck.
At that moment, Ji Zixuan, holding the Earth Mirror, suddenly looked serious.
"Everyone, I've just received word from a relative—seven of the top exploration teams have arrived in the Extreme Night Sea."
"What? So many people already?" Xia Jing asked in surprise, "What's going on?"
"I'll ask," Ji Zixuan said. As someone of the Ji family, she had more access to such information than most.
Zhao Xing's expression grew serious as well. Seven top exploration teams in the Extreme Night Sea already?
No wonder the divination had said there was danger here, with only small rewards to be gained.
Under normal circumstances, it would be almost impossible to wrest anything away from these seven top teams.
After a moment, Ji Zixuan looked up and said:
"The seven top exploration teams have united with dozens of advanced teams and are attempting to blockade the sea around 'Night Fortress No. 98' in the Extreme Night Sea."
"They must have made a major discovery!"
Zhao Xing's heart skipped a beat. The place he had been planning to explore was precisely in that area, including Night Fortress No. 98.
"These top teams don't mess around. They've already made it to the Extreme Night Sea and found a treasure trove so quickly," Zhao Xing thought, realizing that this trip was going to be far more challenging than expected.
If Ji Zixuan's information was accurate, the area near Night Fortress No. 98 would soon be swarming with powerful experts, many of them likely at the fifth rank.
"There's bound to be a lot of fifth-rank experts there," Chen Shijie said gravely.
"What's there to fear?" Xia Jing scoffed. "Even if they're fifth-rank, they might not be able to kill me."
Xia Jing had become even more confident after mastering the Gluttony Technique and the Black Tortoise Shield.
"We'll take a look at the situation. If there are too many powerful experts, we'll call for reinforcements," Zhao Xing suggested. "I'll send a message to my teacher, and you should also see if you can call in any fifth-rank help."
If you have connections, use them.
The Extreme Night Sea held immense benefits, especially for those hoping to break through their luck.
For those at the fifth and sixth ranks, luck was the most coveted resource.
To climb the ranks in the Fortune Dynasty, one's luck had to be strong. Only with a strong fortune could one's career as an official thrive, making it more likely to rise through the ranks.
Otherwise, it wasn't uncommon for someone to spend decades stuck in the same position.
The ship continued flying northeast for another half an hour.
In the distance, a small island came into view, with a fortress perched atop it—that was one of the observation fortresses set up in the Extreme Night Sea, known as a "Night Fortress."
The Extreme Night Sea had many such fortresses, named for their role in observing the Cave-Heaven's phenomena before the spiritual treasures began emerging.
Originally, this bitterly cold place was deserted.
But now, it was swarming with Airships and warships.
"Halt!"
Suddenly, a voice like thunder echoed toward Zhao Xing's Kirin Airship.
"The area ahead is blocked off by the top exploration teams. Halt, outsiders!"
Swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh swoosh!
A ten-man patrol team shot out from a distant ship.
Zhao Xing narrowed his eyes—each of these ten people was at the peak of the Heavenly Gang Stage!
"Brother Ji, that's the Five-Clawed Golden Dragon Banner. You should handle this," Zhao Xing said.
After all, he had no connections within the royal family.
He was just a low-ranking Marquis, and showing up as a mid-stage Heavenly Gang warrior claiming to be part of a top exploration team wouldn't carry much weight.
"Very well, I'll go talk to them," Ji Zixuan nodded, changing into formal attire before flying over gracefully.
"My friends, I am Ji Zixuan, heir of the Prince of Pingyang and a member of the top exploration team founded by Liu Tianning."
"By right, I and my companions are permitted to explore any location. Please allow us passage."
Being a royal, and mentioning his membership in a top exploration team, Ji Zixuan should have been shown respect.
But the patrol leader coldly responded, "Halt! If you are not a member of the Seven Top Exploration Teams, no outsiders may enter. We are simply following orders."
"If you have any connections, you may speak to your superiors."
Despite Ji Zixuan's attempts to negotiate, the patrol remained unmoved.
Having no choice, Ji Zixuan returned to the ship, fuming.
"They refused to let us through. Those under Ji Ye are too rigid," Ji Zixuan grumbled. "I tried everything, but they wouldn't even relay a message for me."
"That's typical of the Liang Prince's people," Long Xiao grunted. "Like father, like son."
"I say we just barge through. We're a top exploration team too. What's there to be afraid of?"
"Calm down," Chen Shijie interrupted, scolding Long Xiao. The mere mention of the Liang Prince made everyone from the Shenwei Army agitated.
After all, both Long Xiao and Chen Shijie had been demoted for five years, and they never thought they'd see the Shenwei Army reformed again.
"Brother Ji, is there any way you can contact Ji Ye?"
"Ji Ye is the Liang Prince's nineteenth son, a fifth-rank Pure Essence Realm expert at the peak of his cultivation," Ji Zixuan shook his head. "He's much older than I am, and I've only ever seen him from afar during ancestral rites."
"Even if I reached out, he wouldn't pay any attention to me."
There's a big difference between princes, after all. The Prince of Pingyang is the Emperor's cousin, but the Liang Prince is the Emperor's younger brother.
"He's much older than you, yet he's still stuck at the fifth rank—what a waste," Xia Jing scoffed.
"Enough talk, let's get in touch with someone who can get us through," Zhao Xing said.
The Seven Top Exploration Teams were blockading the area, but that didn't mean they had to go through Ji Ye's section.
Zhao Xing, Ji Zixuan, and Xia Jing headed into the cabin to start making contact.
Long Xiao and Chen Shijie stayed on deck. The only person they could reach was Yang An.
But they doubted Yang An would be able to help much.
With the Liang Prince involved, Yang An's connections wouldn't be very useful.
"Teacher."
Zhao Xing's projection appeared in the Myriad Law Palace.
He used an emergency communication method, which was monitored by one of Liu Tianning's Myriad Law avatars.
"What trouble have you run into?" Liu Tianning's avatar, which had been meditating with closed eyes, suddenly perked up, clearly "logging on."
"Teacher, my true body has arrived at the Extreme Night Sea, only to discover that the Seven Top Exploration Teams, along with dozens of advanced teams, have blockaded the area within three hundred miles of Night Fortress No. 98."
"I've made my identity known, but they won't let me through."
"Here are the key factions involved…"
After listening to the details, Liu Tianning said, "Stay where you are for now. Give me fifteen minutes."
Zhao Xing asked, "Teacher, would you be willing to come in person? There may be a great treasure here that could benefit you as well."
Liu Tianning considered for a moment, then said, "Very well, I will arrive within a day."
"Thank you, Teacher."
After their conversation, Zhao Xing's projection disappeared from the Myriad Law Palace.
Fifteen minutes later, Liu Tianning sent a message:
[Someone should invite you soon. You may choose freely.]
Zhao Xing put away the Earth Mirror and stepped back out onto the deck.
By then, Xia Jing and Ji Zixuan had also finished their calls.
"How did it go?" Zhao Xing asked.
"My cousin's family is contacting the Tianjue Prince. His grandson, Yun Duo, is one of the leaders of a top exploration team here," Xia Jing said. "We've also called in three fifth-rank experts, who should be on their way."
"You don't need a large group, just enough to get the job done."
"I've only contacted Liu Tianning," Zhao Xing replied.
He had considered calling Lord Tian, but given his advanced age, it didn't seem appropriate to involve him in such a conflict.
You don't need a lot of people—just the right ones.
Buzz~ At that moment, all three of their Earth Mirrors vibrated simultaneously.
"Looks like we've got responses."
Each of them checked their Earth Mirrors.
Zhao Xing stepped back into his room.
To his surprise, the first invitation came from Ji Dan, the youngest son of the Liang Prince.
[I have long heard of Marquis Yuanrang's great reputation. It has come to my attention that you've arrived at the Extreme Night Sea and were blocked by my elder brother. Coincidentally, I, too, am here, occupying a portion of the Night Fortress. I sincerely invite you to join me east of the fortress to seek spiritual treasures together.]
"Hmm? Ji Dan?" Zhao Xing was slightly taken aback.
He knew that Liang Ruohai was Ji Dan's teacher.
Back when Zhao Xing had used the Heavenly Fate Blade in the Heavenly Gate to sever that giant worm, Liang Ruohai had been unable to divine Zhao Xing's true identity, yet Zhao Xing had clearly observed his situation.
And now, Ji Dan was inviting him?
"Could this be a trap set by Liang Ruohai? But that's impossible. During the Heavenly Gate incident, Liang Ruohai wouldn't have been able to figure out who I was."
"So what is Ji Dan's true motive behind this invitation?" Zhao Xing pondered.
Just as he was considering Ji Dan's intentions, another message appeared on his Earth Mirror.
[Greetings. My nineteenth brother, a mere warrior, rashly blocked your path earlier. I, Ji Chen, apologize on his behalf. I would like to formally invite you and your companions to the west of the Night Fortress to discuss matters over tea.]
"What the... Ji Chen is inviting me too?" Zhao Xing was taken aback. After all, he was once a member of the Shenwei Army and had even slain Qian Shougang, a general under Ji Chen's direct command.
It seems the influence of Liu Tianning truly runs deep. These two brothers are clearly trying to curry favor with me.
Ji Chen's invitation also gave Zhao Xing some reassurance.
Ji Dan wouldn't attempt something as crude as a direct ambush, especially given the clout of Liu Tianning. His invitation seemed more like a political gesture than a personal grudge.
"Could it be that these two brothers are vying against Ji Ye, their sibling, and are trying to pull me over to their side?" Zhao Xing speculated.
As for the tension between the Liang Prince and Yang An, that was of little consequence now. Besides, it seemed that any ill will had long been buried.
Moreover, with Liu Tianning as a connection, it seemed this invitation was just a way for Ji Chen to show goodwill.
Then came a third message.
This time, it was from Prince Lingde's grandson, Pei Yuanchang.
"Zhao Xing," Pei Yuanchang's message came via a holographic projection from the Earth Mirror. After making contact, he wasted no time getting to the point. "Princess You Ruo instructed me to invite you to my side."
"If you don't mind the smaller space I've claimed, you're welcome to join me southwest of the Night Fortress. I can clear out some room for you."
Pei Yuanchang's offer was quite tactful. He acknowledged that his claimed territory was modest but generously offered to make space for Zhao Xing.
"Please give me a moment to discuss this with my companions," Zhao Xing replied, bowing slightly.
"Of course," Pei Yuanchang agreed easily. "You're welcome at any time."
A short while later, Zhao Xing gathered with Xia Jing and Ji Zixuan to discuss their options.
"Yun Duo has a large group and is willing to let us in, but it seems we'll have to submit to his command if we join," Xia Jing reported.
That was understandable—given the circumstances, whoever arrived first and secured territory naturally had authority over the area.
"Pei Yuanchang has offered to give us some space," Zhao Xing said. "It might be a smaller area, but we won't be under anyone's command. I suggest we go with him. We'll have more freedom of movement."
"I agree," Xia Jing nodded.
To them, the location didn't matter as much. Ultimately, strength would determine who held power, and if they found any major treasures, conflicts were inevitable regardless of arrangements.
Zhao Xing quickly responded to Pei Yuanchang, accepting his invitation. Meanwhile, no further invitations came.
With that settled, the Kirin Airship adjusted its course toward Pei Yuanchang's territory.
"He declined," Ji Dan muttered, somewhat disappointed after reading Zhao Xing's reply. "If I could recruit him, it would be a major advantage against Ji Ye."
"With Liu Tianning as his teacher and Lord Luohou backing him, Zhao Xing has substantial influence," Ji Dan thought to himself. "But it seems my invitation wasn't enough to sway him."
As Ji Dan reflected, he consoled himself with the fact that Zhao Xing hadn't gone to Ji Chen's camp, either.
Similarly, Ji Chen was unfazed by Zhao Xing's decision. From the fact that he had his subordinates deliver the message rather than approaching personally, it was clear that his invitation was more about fostering a connection with Liu Tianning than Zhao Xing himself.
As for Ji Ye, he pretended not to care. After all, Zhao Xing had slain Qian Shougang, one of his trusted generals, so he had no intention of recruiting him.
In Ji Ye's mind, Zhao Xing was a non-factor. Ignoring him was easier than reconciling such a grudge.
"Ha! I've long heard of your prowess, and today I finally have the honor of meeting you in person," Pei Yuanchang welcomed Zhao Xing, Xia Jing, and the others warmly as they arrived. He had even personally come out to greet them.
"Brother Yuanrang, you flatter me," Zhao Xing responded with a polite bow, using Pei Yuanchang's title as a marquis. "We are grateful for your generosity in sharing your territory with us."
"Think nothing of it," Pei Yuanchang smiled. "Please, just call me Brother Pei. I may be fifty-three, but I'm not much older than you."
"Brother Pei."
"Excellent!" Pei Yuanchang was pleased. "Let me introduce you to the situation here."
He pointed to a cloud map projected in front of them, outlining the region around Night Fortress No. 98.
"Currently, the most significant phenomenon is the Spirit Fish Transformation."
Xia Jing's expression flickered at the mention of Spirit Fish, but Pei Yuanchang noticed and asked, "Is something wrong, Brother Xia?"
"Apologies, Brother Pei. My internal training with the Gluttony Technique has some side effects."
"Ah, I see…" Pei Yuanchang laughed. "Well then, let me continue."
He explained, "The area around Night Fortress No. 98 was originally covered by a thick layer of ice. Due to the area's constant cold, which often reaches 'Major Cold' levels, the ice had never melted."
"But now, it's slowly thawing, and fish have begun leaping from the sea."
"Consuming these fish grants various benefits!"
"We've already confirmed that they can enhance Yuan Qi, lifespan, Pure Essence, and even water-element fortune," Pei Yuanchang finished, watching for their reactions.
However, Zhao Xing and his companions remained calm, showing little excitement.
Even Chen Shijie and Long Xiao, who had less exposure to such phenomena, weren't fazed.
After all, Zhao Xing had led them through many trials, where they had experienced plenty of extraordinary events.
Seeing this, Zhao Xing humored him, "It's truly remarkable!"
"Hahaha, indeed it is!" Pei Yuanchang laughed heartily. "The thousand-year ice is melting, releasing the Yuan Qi stored deep within the sea. This natural phenomenon has given rise to these wondrous fish."
"Brother Pei, capturing these fish must be no easy task," Zhao Xing observed.
He had noticed that Pei Yuanchang didn't have many people actively working in the area, and the situation seemed calm.
"That's right," Pei Yuanchang nodded. "It's quite difficult to catch them."
He took out a transparent bottle, showing it to Zhao Xing and his group.
"This is a 'Wenhua Bottle,' recently retrieved from the water," Pei Yuanchang said, displaying the small container that had two separate compartments.
At the moment, only the lower compartment had a faint blue light swirling within it.
"When the blue light in the bottle increases, it means the temperature is dropping."
"The colder it gets, the more blue light you'll see," Pei Yuanchang explained. "Currently, it's showing one hundred and thirty-nine points, which is cold enough to freeze a seventh-rank cultivator to death."
"This reading was taken just ten meters underwater," Pei Yuanchang continued. "Deeper down, it's even colder, enough to injure even sixth-rank experts."
"Ordinary cold-resistant materials are useless down there," he added. "The current record is held by a fifth-rank expert, who managed to dive to a depth of five hundred meters."
"As a result, the Seven Top Exploration Teams have mostly resorted to waiting, hoping that the fish will surface on their own."
Hearing that fifth-rank experts could only dive five hundred meters made Xia Jing frown. He wondered if even he could withstand such temperatures.
Zhao Xing, on the other hand, was relieved that they still had time to prepare. If they could already dive and retrieve treasures easily, there wouldn't be much left for him by the time he arrived.
"Each team is urgently preparing cold-resistant equipment," Pei Yuanchang continued. "I have two cold-resistant 'Ice Leaf Ships,' with a third one on the way."
"These ships can break through the ice and dive deep into the sea to capture the Spirit Fish using specialized equipment."
"No need to dive in personally."
"If you're interested, you're welcome to join us on one of our expeditions."
Pei Yuanchang's offer was generous—he was willing to let Zhao Xing and his companions join him on his ship, sharing the Spirit Fish they captured.
It was a clear show of goodwill, likely due to Liu Tianning's influence.
However, Zhao Xing politely declined.
"Thank you for your kind offer, Brother Pei. Lending us space to explore and sharing your resources is already a great favor. We couldn't possibly impose further."
Realizing Zhao Xing wasn't going to take up the offer, Pei Yuanchang didn't press the issue. Instead, he gifted them a few sets of cold-resistant robes before seeing them off.
"Those people don't know how lucky they are," one of Pei Yuanchang's subordinates grumbled as Zhao Xing's group departed. "The young master offered to share the Spirit Fish with them, and they turned him down."
"Liu Tianning's disciples aren't fools," Pei Yuanchang said, watching the Kirin Airship disappear into the distance. "Keep an eye on them. Their territory is close to ours. If they have a method we don't, we might learn something valuable."
"Yes, sir," the subordinate replied, hurrying off to carry out his orders.
Pei Yuanchang's suspicions were correct—Zhao Xing did have a plan.
After all, he had known for some time that they were heading to the Extreme Night Sea and had made ample preparations.
At that moment, Zhao Xing rummaged through the Kirin Airship, searching for something.
Before long, he dragged out two large chests.
"Old Chen, time to get to work!" Zhao Xing called out.