As expected, Wu Shijiu took the initiative to bring up the Witch Deity Teaching, he certainly had his own agenda.
He did not care about their strange color and actively said: "You must have known the origins of Witch Deity Teaching by now. At the very beginning, Witch Deity Teaching was a lineage of human tribe's sacrificial rituals. They were worshipped by the Ancient Clan Tribe as sacrificial ministers, and presided over ceremonies communicating with the spirits of Heaven and Earth. Even when there were many rulers in the human tribe, the lineage of Witch Deity Teaching held an extraordinary status, receiving the courtesy and respect of the rulers…"
Wu Shijiu talked about the origin and history of the Witch Deity Teaching. The Witch Deity Teaching was constituted by those ritualistic shamans from the tribal era of the human race. At that time, human society had not developed a complete civilization, and they were still in a barbaric era. Every tribe had shamans who communicated with the Ghost God of Heaven and Earth, seeking direction for the clans and tribes.
Later, as numerous rulers of the human tribe emerged, the status of these ritualistic shamans got elevated again. They were worshipped as ceremonial officers who controlled the rites, and they were trusted confidants of the rulers, who held many secrets and key aspects of the human tribe.
The great affairs of a country lay in rituals and military matters.
And the ritual mentioned in this statement refers to the sacrifice, that is, the people who mastered the way of communicating with the Ghost God of Heaven and Earth.
"Later, Confucianism emerged, replacing the shamans and rituals, which led them to gradually leave the stage. But this Witch Deity Teaching is not completely useless, at least I, Wu, know that there is something in the Witch Deity Teaching that could be useful to you." Here, Wu Shijiu finally revealed his true purpose.
Pei Xuanjing and Zhu Houji looked at each other and smiled, knowing what each other meant.
Wu Shijiu did not disguise his own thoughts, he looked at the two and said: "In the hands of Witch Deity Teaching, there is something passed down from the ancient rulers. If it can be obtained, it would be highly beneficial to the Great Ming Divine Dynasty."
"Oh? What exactly is it?" Pei Xuanjing asked with a faint smile on his face.
Zhu Houji on the side was also very calm, seeming to have seen through Wu Shijiu's provocation without being deceived.
However, in the next moment, when he heard the name of the particular thing Wu Shijiu was referring to, his face immediately changed.
"Human Path Treasures, Xuanyuan Divine Sword!" Wu Shijiu uttered a few solemn words.
These few words alone promptly made the originally indifferent Pei Xuanjing and Zhu Houji change their face, their expressions immediately turned grave.
"Is this true?" Zhu Houji blurted out, a flash of surprise in his eyes.
The Xuanyuan Divine Sword, one of the top divine weapons in legends, was said to be the divine weapon used by Xuanyuan, the ruler of the human tribe in ancient times. Legend has it that the divine weapon was made by the Xuanyuan Clan from the bronze collected by many tribes. One side of the sword body was engraved with sun, moon, stars, and celestial bodies, and the other side with mountains, rivers, grass, and trees. One side of the sword hilt was inscribed with the art of farming and animal husbandry, and the other side with the strategy of uniting the four seas. It contains boundless power and is the divine sword for slaying demons and removing evil spirits.
But beyond its unparalleled power, more importantly, it symbolizes great significance. It can be said that in ancient times, it was one of the treasures that the human tribe took pride in, worshipped by countless members of the human tribe, and was a symbol of the ruler of the human tribe.
However, since this divine sword fell into the hands of King Yu of the Da Xia Divine Dynasty, it disappeared completely and was difficult to trace. Now hearing the news about this sword, even the usually calm and composed Zhu Houji was somewhat emotional for a moment.
After all, for the human tribe, if they could obtain this divine sword, it would be of great significance. His Great Ming Divine Dynasty would undoubtedly become the righteous spear of the human tribes in the world, and no one would be able to doubt it.
"Could it be that the Xuanyuan sword is in the hands of the Witch Deity Teaching?" Pei Xuanjing couldn't help but say.
He was also well known for his reputation as a divine weapon. When he learned about some ancient secrets, he knew that this sword had disappeared.
Originally, he thought that what Wu Shijiu claimed that Witch Deity Teaching possessed was not meaningful or important to him.
But if it's this thing, then for the current Great Ming Divine Dynasty, it might be something that can quickly enhance strength.
In the Sky Wasteland world, Pei Xuanjing, as the Human Emperor, had also refined the Human Emperor's Gold Seal and the Nine Cauldrons, these extraordinary treasures. He knew that if such a thing could be controlled, it would surely bring great power.
"But even if it's true, it's probably not easy to get it, right?" Pei Xuanjing also quickly reacted.
The Witch Deity Teaching has been handed down for thousands of years. The news of their possession of the Xuanyuan Divine Sword is so secretive that many divine dynasties have not discovered it and can still retain it to this day. This shows how important the Xuanyuan Divine Sword is to the Witch Deity Teaching. Therefore, obtaining it is as difficult as reaching the sky.
"Yes, it is extremely difficult to obtain the Xuanyuan Divine Sword, which is strictly guarded by the Witch Deity Teaching," Wu Shijiu did not deny.
Such a precious thing would naturally be strictly protected. If he had not been part of the high echelons of the Witch Deity Teaching, he might not have even had the right to know about it.
He looked at the two and said, "My point is not to plan for this thing now, but to warn both of you. The Witch Deity Teaching has kept the Xuanyuan Divine Sword hidden for so many years, which shows its sinister intentions, and we need to be cautious."
Despite its status as a Human Path Treasure, the Xuanyuan Divine Sword, although within the power of the human tribal force of the Witch Deity Teaching and can be activated with respect to the former human tribal status, the power it can unleash is not significant.
In fact, given the resources of the Witch Deity Teaching, then after its many years of inheritance, the top divine weapons it has obtained are likely as many as the numerical digits, and the power it can exert may not be weaker than the Xuanyuan Divine Sword.
After all, such divine weapons like the Xuanyuan Divine Sword should have been wielded by the ruler of the human tribe or the lord of the divine dynasty in order to unleash their greatest power. For the Witch Deity Teaching, it is completely strenuous and thankless, and it's seen as a mundane object.
But even so, the Witch Deity Teaching has still spent a huge price to preserve it, showing how important it is to them.
The scheming of the other side may well be a threat to the Great Ming Divine Dynasty, and this is the point that Wu Shijiu wants to make clear.
"Xuanyuan Divine Sword, what a pity!" Zhu Houji sighed, with a look of regret in his eyes.
As a monarch, how could he remain indifferent after hearing about the Xuanyuan Divine Sword? That's why he had that expression just now.
But he is not a fool, but in a moment, he understood that the Xuanyuan Divine Sword is simply inaccessible for him at present.
The Witch Deity Teaching is a top-tier force in the Sky Wasteland, a force with the most powerful presence in Nine Realms of Spirit. The Xuanyuan Divine Sword is controlled by them unless they are willing otherwise, it's simply impossible for him to get it based on his current situation.
"How did the Witch Deity Teaching get the Xuanyuan Divine Sword in the first place?" Pei Xuanjing asked with a glint of curiosity in his eyes.
Inside the Taoist Academy, Pei Xuanjing stood with his hands behind his back, gazing silently at the star-studded sky for a long while.
After he returned from the Star-Viewing Platform in the Imperial City, he stood here alone, contemplating what he had recently seen and heard.
Apart from anything else, the conversations about the Witch Deity Teaching between him and Wu Shijiu had given rise to certain disturbing premonitions within Pei Xuanjing.
During their conversation, Wu Shijiu had shared quite a lot about himself with Pei Xuanjing. Apart from a few confidential details, he hadn't withheld any information about the Witch Deity Teaching, hence allowing Pei Xuanjing to deepen his understanding of this ancient power that has existed in the Sky Wasteland for thousands of years.
"The original ritual status being replaced by the decorum of Confucianism, and the former ritual masters, the Witch Priests, willingly stepping down only to transform into the Witch Deity Teaching without making any move, is quite odd," Pei Xuanjing silently pondered.
No individual or power would easily cede their interests, especially when those interests are enormously significant.
The original status of these Witch Priests in the Witch Deity Teaching was highly respected. They had held the rituals since the tribal era of ancient times, and they remained in this eminent position even during the Divine Dynasty of Heavenly Zhou.
This status represented immense interests. Anyone wishing to challenge their status would inevitably face their blowback and suppression.
Even with the rise of Confucianism challenging their position, this should have resulted in an unprecedented great struggle to compete for ultimate victory and the opportunity to enjoy the final benefits.
However, these Witch Priests retreat so easily, which is simply too strange. It must be understood, even though the Witch Deity Teaching they founded is a top-tier power, it can't compare to their former status as the controllers of the tribal rituals.
Such peculiarities suggest that there can only be one conclusion: there must be more critical benefits that make them willing to retreat and let go of their current interests.
Therefore, as Wu Shijiu stated, the Witch Deity Teaching must have a significant conspiracy going on. There's no doubt about it.
"But, what exactly are you plotting?" Pei Xuanjing pondered curiously.
He wondered what kind of immense conspiracy could make the Witch Deity Teaching abandon such interests and remain undercover for thousands of years without revealing any clues.
Pei Xuanjing had a hunch that the Witch Deity Teaching, which had remained hidden for thousands of years, might take action soon, and that there could be a violent collision between the two parties.
...
On the side of the Heretics Alliance—
By a surprising coincidence, Zhao Baiyang also did not cultivate or sleep tonight.
He sat in a courtyard with Tie Qianshan and Zi Tianxiong, admiring the moonlit scenery. There were various dishes and fine wines set out before them.
"This time, you displayed your might powerfully, shaking the whole world. Even those who have returned from the Sky Wasteland admire you greatly!" Zi Tianxiong laughed while addressing Zhao Baiyang.
Indeed, ever since the powerful forces of the Sky Wasteland returned, those native powerhouses, including themselves, had been living quite uncomfortably. Even though Pei Xuanjing had set a rule that restrained those people from casually creating havoc within the borders of the Great Ming Divine Dynasty, their arrogant air was hard to dissipate.
Even for Zi Tianxiong, who had risen from low beginnings, being looked down upon like this had stirred up great discomfort within him.
But, indeed he was not as powerful as them. Even though he was full of resentment, Zi Tianxiong could only suppress this discomfort, waiting for the right timing.
He had thought that after some time, when his cultivation reaches new heights, he would take the initiative to deal with some who challenged him from the Sky Wasteland's power. That way, he could suppress their sharpness a bit and also vent his frustrations.
However, he didn't expect that before he had a chance to take action after closing up, he would receive the news of Zhao Baiyang taking action.
This time, Zhao Baiyang's move was earth-shattering, shaking the world and forcing the powers of the Sky Wasteland not to look down upon these native powerhouses any longer.
Hearing the words of Zi Tianxiong, Zhao Baiyang flashed a faint smile on his face and waved his hand: "It was merely a fortunate coincidence. With your current strength, Zi Tianxiong, if you wish to take action, those people will certainly be shocked."
Zhao Baiyang knew very well that these acquaintances of his, especially those who had topped the world before heaven and earth were restored, were by no means weaker in talent than anyone else. The only reason they lagged behind today is due to the shorter time they spent on cultivation. Given enough time, they would inevitably catch up.
Like the Zi Tianxiong before him, who had already broken through to the Spirit Realm Sixth Level. Although Zhao Baiyang wasn't sure if he could rival a cultivator at the Seventh Level of the Spiritual Realm without being defeated, he was confident that no opponent could contend with Zi Tianxiong within the same realm.
Zi Tianxiong just smiled without saying anything, implicitly agreeing with Zhao Baiyang.
Indeed, Zi Tianxiong, who had built all his achievements from scratch, was truly an ambitious individual. Although he could yield and stretch, the deep-seated pride within him couldn't be erased.
If he hadn't broken through his realm this time and didn't have enough strength and trump card, he wouldn't have accepted Zhao Baiyang's invitation today nor would have he appeared here. That's his unique pride.
On the side, Tie Qianshan, who did not utter a word and was drinking wine alone, shared the same thoughts and feelings.
For those like him who once stood at the very peak, no matter how they behave on normal days – whether amiable, solitary, or arrogant… etc., the pride in their hearts is hard to erase.
If one day they truly become inferior, they wouldn't need anyone to remind them. They themselves won't be able to stand their own appearance, and they certainly won't expose it to the world without good reason.
Zhao Baiyang also understood these two men's thoughts. Therefore, only after learning that these two had come out of seclusion, did he invite them here. Since they agreed to his invitation, he could guess the gains each of them had obtained during their solitude. It was an unspoken understanding between strong individuals.
"Speaking of which, Zhao Baiyang, you must have not invited us here just to share a drink!" Zi Tianxiong glanced at the silent Tie Qianshan and asked Zhao Baiyang proactively.
Although he didn't know much earlier, he had become quite familiar with Zhao Baiyang since they formed a secret alliance at Shenxiao Mountain.
Zhao Baiyang was never the type to dwell on the past and invite people for drinks. So, if he invited them over today, he must have a purpose, and that purpose must be significant.
"Hahaha, brother Zi, you sure do get straight to the point. Well, I won't beat around the bush either." Zhao Baiyang said with a hearty laugh.
He is not known for dancing around the subject. Since Zi Tianxiong spoke up, he will also state his purpose clearly.
"This time, I invited you two here to formally invite you to join our Demonic Cult Alliance." Zhao Baiyang adjusted his expression and said solemnly.
This is the second time Zhao Baiyang has proposed inviting them to join the Demonic Cult Alliance.
In the early stages of the alliance's formation, he had already invited them to unite in order to resist the Taoist Alliance, the Aristocratic Alliance, and the Buddhism School among others.
However, at the time he was politely declined by the two, who only agreed to cooperate but did not wish to join the Demonic Cult Alliance.
Thus, the collaboration between the three entities has been maintained for decades, while other forces have assumed that they have already united when in reality they are merely allies.
But now Zhao Baiyang was unwilling to wait any longer. The forces in the Sky Wasteland returned too quickly, and were far too powerful. There was not much time left for them to develop.
Although recently, Zhao Baiyang had killed several Great Demons and defeated a Seventh Level Spiritual Realm Demon King, thereby intimidating the others, he was aware that it was only a temporary scenario.
Right now, those people chose to avoid causing trouble and chose to retreat, but once they return completely, conflict between the two forces is inevitable.
Hence, Zhao Baiyang needed to be prepared in advance. He needed more strong allies, otherwise, even if he could go toe-to-toe with a Seventh Level Spiritual Realm cultivator, he would be unable to resist the pressure alone.
Given the current situation, the only strong allies he could invite were the pair. As for Xue Wuheng of the Demonic Cult, their relationship could only be that of allies and not of a true union.
The situation these two faced was similar to his own, with their powers also reaching a bottleneck. Even if they had outstanding disciples under their lead, their rise needed a long time to nurture, which they lacked.
Hence, the merging of the three forces seemed a good choice to Zhao Baiyang. With the three of them united, they could be equivalent to three Seventh Level Spiritual Realm power beings. If the Vajra Sect Leader, a master in the Way of Essence Refinement in the Demonic Cult Alliance, continued to break through, the combined power of the four would be formidable. Even if all the forces in Sky Wasteland returned, they could still maintain dominance and keep everything they currently have.
"This…"
Upon hearing Zhao Baiyang's candid invitation once again, Zi Tianxiong seemed unsure and had difficulty making a decision.
As a titan and a strongman, he rarely exhibited such hesitation.
However, the circumstances were different. Deep down, Zi Tianxiong was reluctant to unite.
After all, he started his powers with his bare hands, and built everything through hard work. This was something Zi Tianxiong was most proud of in his life.
However, reality was staring him in the face. Even though he was aware that with his current strength he could face off against a Seventh Level Spiritual Realm cultivator, maintaining his current benefits after the return of various powers seemed highly unlikely.
He felt hesitant and regretful. Was he really going to give up everything he had worked hard to start over a hundred years ago?
Just as he was pondering, he heard Tie Qianshan, who had been silent all along, suddenly saying: "I agree. I accept!"
Um!
Zi Tianxiong sputtered with surprise and confusion. He glanced at Tie Qianshan, wondering why he had agreed so easily.
The Tie Sect, although with a long history, was in fact just a small power until it was thrust into prominence by Tie Qianshan. In Zi Tianxiong's eyes, Tie Qianshan's investment in Tie Sect was not less than his own. Why then did Tie Qianshan agree so decisively without any hesitation?
Not only was Zi Tianxiong astounded, but Zhao Baiyang, too, was taken aback upon hearing Tie Qianshan's answer.
He and Tie Qianshan know each other very well. They've been acquainted for a very long time, Zhao Baiyang knew how much Tie Qianshan valued and cared for Tie Sect.
He had prepared many words in order to persuade Tie Qianshan, thinking about convincing him. But Tie Qianshan's decisive acceptance ended up leaving Zhao Baiyang lost for words.
Tie Qianshan glanced at the two astonished men and asked: "Surprised, brother Zhao?"
"How could I not be surprised!" Zhao Baiyang sighed and shook his head: "I had prepared words to persuade the two of you, but your swift acceptance left me in a bit of a panic."
At this moment, Zi Tianxiong spoke timely: "Are you sure about this, brother Tie? Are you ready to let go of everything the Tie Sect has achieved?"
He believed that Tie Qianshan was not one to back down easily, hence, he was curious about his thoughts.
Zhao Baiyang also looked at his few close friends curiously, hoping to figure out what had caused such a sudden change in his attitude.
"Nothing more, just clear reality." Tie Qianshan sighed.
Seeing the two still looked doubtful, Tie Qianshan slowly said: "After witnessing the many aspiring individuals in Sky Wasteland, I now understand where I stand in the grand scheme of things."
He asked the two: "What do you think of your own talent? How does it compare to the Grandmaster Pei from the Taoist School?"
Upon hearing Tie Qianshan's question, neither immediately responded. Although they were confident in their own cultivation talent, this confidence was relative.
Compared to many ordinary cultivators, they would be hailed as strong, but when compared to the likes of Grandmaster Pei from the Taoist Academy, they paled in comparison.
Although Pei Xuanjing always claimed that his innate talent was average and nothing more than common, no one else ever took these comments seriously. They all believed such claims were nothing more than his humility. After all, his meteoric rise in such a short period of time proved that Pei Xuanjing was far from ordinary.