Chapter 52: Chapter 52 Praise Longevity Heaven! Spring Radiance Buddha!
Boom!
In an instant, Chen Zhixing's entire physical body, each of its acupoints, began to emit a brilliant light!
Laogong Acupoint!
Middle Cavity Acupoint!
Daling Acupoint!
Neiguan Acupoint!
Quze Acupoint!!
.....
Fengchi Acupoint!!
Juque Acupoint!!!
In the blink of an eye, all five hundred acupoints within Chen Zhixing's body shone brightly, crisscrossing each other, forming an incredibly magnificent starry sky map on his skin!
Endless Qi blood intertwined behind Chen Zhixing, forming nine furnaces of Qi blood that pierced the heavens and earth!!
"This punch carries the strength of ten years; can you take it?"
The radiant starlight shone on Chen Zhixing's face.
Making his expressionless face appear particularly pale.
No wasted words.
Chen Zhixing's black hair flew in the wind as he lifted his arm, pulling it out from the strange black-robed person's belly.
Then, his right arm pulled back, like a bow drawn to a full moon.
Moo!!
Black phantom images of Ox Demons simultaneously appeared behind Chen Zhixing, roaring with earth-shattering lows as Chen Zhixing pulled his punch.
Endless radiant starlight, like bolts of lightning, gathered on Chen Zhixing's fist.
"Are you a breaker of the physical body's shackles?!!"
The strange black-robed person paused for a moment upon seeing this, then instead of fear, smiled with eyes full of wild joy and heat.
"Hahaha! Unexpectedly, a mere declining Chen Family can produce someone who combines the Ten Ancient Patterns and breaks the physical body's shackles into one!"
"Come on! Kill me!!"
The strange black-robed person took a step forward, staring intensely at Chen Zhixing, and even through the mask, her excitement and fervor were visible.
In an instant, she inflated like a balloon, her once bloated body quickly swelling and enlarging.
Crack!
Crack!!
The wide black robe gradually fell apart, exposing a purple body covered with dense octopus suckers.
Next, the mask on her face shattered as well.
Beneath the mask, surprisingly, was a horrifying grotesque face!
It was an extremely fat face, with cheeks piled in layers like mountains of flesh, yet heavily made-up with bright red rouge painted on the face, the lips filled with vermilion in circles at the lip bead area—an eerie grotesque face.
Moreover, a gray seam stitched with thread ran from left ear to right ear.
As if the upper and lower halves of the face were sewn together.
"Disgusting monster."
For some reason, Chen Zhixing looked at this face and felt an innate aversion.
Without any hesitation.
Chen Zhixing launched a punch, slamming hard onto the grotesque black-robed person's bloated, swollen belly.
Boom——!!!
It was like a thousand thunderstorms exploding, or two grand mountains colliding!
A deafening bombardment erupted instantly, centered on their clash.
Then came a shockwave expanding outward in a circular arc, leveling the surrounding area for hundreds of feet!
Amid the surging shockwave.
The entire body of the grotesque black-robed person was like being thrown into thousands of high-temperature furnaces, melting from hands to feet!
However.
This grotesque black-robed person showed no fear of death; instead, she gazed intensely and fervently at Chen Zhixing with a crazed expression.
"Number One Spark, you are the Number One Spark!"
"The final link of the Spark Plan has been found! Hahaha!!"
"Join our glorious evolution! You will be the perfect rebirth vessel!!"
The grotesque black-robed person opened her mouth, letting out a delirious and joyous laughter.
In her final moments before melting, she looked up towards the boundless sky, a pious, satisfied, peaceful expression on her face.
"Praise Longevity Heaven!"
She clasped her hands together, smiling foolishly as she uttered this sentence.
Sss—!
The grotesque black-robed person completely melted away in the enormous shockwave.
Chen Zhixing slowly retracted his fist, but there was no joy on his face; instead, his brow furrowed tightly.
Spark.
Spark Plan.
Rebirth vessel.
Praise Longevity Heaven.
Every word uttered by the grotesque black-robed person left Chen Zhixing feeling unprecedented chaos.
What exactly.....are these?
"I clearly remember, in my previous life's game 'Great Cultivation', these settings didn't exist at all. The organization that killed Chen Zhaosheng and retrieved the King Sealing Map was merely a simple assassin group."
"Are these settings self-evolved in this world? Or rather, were these hidden plots originally there, and I simply didn't trigger them in my past life?"
Chen Zhixing muttered to himself.
For a moment, he suddenly felt that the world he once saw through was shrouded in endless fog.
Clang.
A black jade stone fell from the air onto the ground.
Chen Zhixing took a deep breath, calming his thoughts, and walked forward to pick up this black jade stone.
Upon receiving the black jade stone, the moment he picked it up, the words 'Ten Ancient Patterns' crookedly emerged on the surface.
"As long as someone touches this jade stone, it reveals the innate potential and root bone of the person who touched it?"
Chen Zhixing narrowed his eyes thoughtfully.
"It must be more than that. I didn't even touch this jade stone just now, only the black-robed person of the Spider Web."
"That means this jade stone's function could be attached to the person who controls it?"
With a bit of thought, an idea struck Chen Zhixing, Summoning a mask, entirely white with a scarlet cross on its forehead, into his hand.
He gently wore this Death Spirit Mask, known to block all probing, onto his face.
Looking down at the jade stone once more, the words 'Ten Ancient Patterns' had disappeared.
This allowed Chen Zhixing to breathe a sigh of relief.
If this jade stone could probe through even the Death Spirit Mask, the future would be troublesome.
In the next moment.
Bang!
Chen Zhixing closed his five fingers into a fist.
This black jade stone instantly crumbled into countless tiny particles, flowing through his fingers like sand, scattered by the wind.
He wasn't sure if this jade stone had additional functions, like positioning, etc.
Having it in hand was like a time bomb, better to destroy it than keep it.
Just as Chen Zhixing finished all this.
"Dharma Image: Spring Radiance Buddha!!!"
A deafening roar suddenly erupted from the distant sky.
Chen Zhixing quickly lifted his eyes to look, the glint of light flickering in his eyes as he zoomed in on the distant scene.
On the damaged Flying Ship.
Chen Tianchen stomped the deck with his right foot, leaping into the sky.
In mid-air, Chen Tianchen's face was ferocious, hands swiftly forming gestures and seals.
"Spring Radiance Buddha, rise!!!"
After completing the gestures, his right hand slammed into the empty space below him.
Boom——!!!
In an instant, the mountain range beneath his feet trembled continuously, like an earth dragon turning over.
Soaring trees and massive stones were pulled by an immense suction force, leaving the ground instantly, surging into the sky from all directions.
They combined and assembled in the air, constantly forming and shaping.
The next moment.
A thousand-foot tall colossal Buddha sculpture, with a solemn face and eyes downcast, seated cross-legged, towered in the vast clouds!
Chapter 53: Chapter 53: Crushing Dry and Rotten Wood!
"It should end now!"
Chen Zhixing took a deep breath, then flipped his right hand.
A wide, floor-length black robe instantly appeared on his body.
This black robe resembled the Spider Web's black robe but lacked the flame patterns.
Chen Zhixing put on the White Ten Mask and pulled the hood of the black robe low to cover most of his face.
The next moment.
Boom——!!
Chen Zhixing stomped his right foot, transforming into a sky-high golden light, rushing towards the flying ship battlefield.
At the same time.
Mid-air where the Chen Family flying ship was located.
Aside from the few unlucky ones who died at the beginning, the rest were escorted to the ground.
At this moment.
The entire mid-air had completely transformed into the most ferocious and terrifying battlefield!
In the clouds, a massive giant Buddha over a thousand feet tall sat cross-legged, with Chen Tianchen's hair disheveled and an extremely fierce expression on his face.
"Die for me ahhhh!" Chen Tianchen roared frantically.
In an instant, the colossal Buddha suddenly raised its sky-covering massive palm and pressed down hard on the leading black-robed man with the characters 'Shijiu' etched on the mask.
"The Ziwei Chen Family has always practiced the Five Spirits Qi Collection Method, and this Chen Tianchen should specialize in the Wood Technique of the Five Spirits Qi Collection Method."
The black-robed man Shijiu murmured to himself, feeling no major disturbance in his heart.
In the next moment.
He raised his head to gaze at the Buddha's palm destroying mountains and pressing down horizontally, his hands rapidly forming seals, and he let out a low shout:
"Dharma Image: Six-armed Asura!"
Boom——!!!
The void began to distort, and Spiritual Qi raged!
A blood-marked ancient bronze gate suddenly appeared behind the black-robed man.
The ancient bronze gate opened inwards, and a pair of ash-gray massive hands stretched out from within.
Soon after.
These large, sharp black fingertips grabbed the bronze gate and forcefully pulled it apart.
A titanic entity as tall as a mountain appeared vividly in the void.
It was a thousand-foot-tall Asura with six massive arms piercing the sky, its white hair hanging down its back, and a face of blue skin and fierce fangs!!
Boom——!!
Facing the descending golden Buddha palm, the six-armed Asura simultaneously raised its six arms to collide fiercely with the Buddha palm!
Bang bang bang!!
For a moment, the six-armed Asura and the majestic Buddha continually battled!
With any casual strike, they could destroy mountains and split the earth!
In their current clash, they almost tore the central area of the Hundred Thousand Great Mountains apart!
Meanwhile.
Chen Tianchen and the black-robed man Shijiu, each controlling their own Dharma Image, exchanged a glance, both remaining silent and deep in thought.
Their strengths were too closely matched, almost in perfect balance!
"Next, it'll depend on Elder Zhaoguang and Elder Guichen. If Elder Zhaoguang and Elder Guichen can win, they can be the last straw that breaks the camel's back!"
Chen Tianchen took a deep breath, his gaze directed not far away.
There.
Elder Zhaoguang and Elder Guichen, serving as the trial Guardians, were entangled in battle with two black-robed individuals.
However, with just one glance.
Chen Tianchen's heart kept sinking.
Both Zhaoguang and Guichen were at an overwhelming disadvantage.
Especially Elder Zhaoguang, whose face was pale, and whose white Taoist robe continually blossomed with blood-stained plum blossom patterns.
The one fighting against him, with his entire body covered in a cold sheen of black armor, was clearly a Peak Divine Travel Cultivator practicing the Flesh Body Tao!
At this moment, he was relentlessly bombarding Elder Zhaoguang!
Elder Zhaoguang was visibly struggling just to defend, likely able to hold on for no more than half an incense stick's time before being beaten to death by the black-robed man!
"This is bad."
Chen Tianchen's face grew incomparably grim.
If Zhaoguang and Guichen perish, the other two black-robed men would immediately come to help.
These two black-robed men would only need to pull him slightly and distract him.
He would instantly die at the hands of the black-robed man Shijiu!
At that moment, Chen Tianchen couldn't help but feel hopeless.
"It seems you are about to die."
The black-robed man Shijiu spoke calmly.
To kill Chen Tianchen was merely a convenient act for him.
A True Self Realm at such an old age is unworthy of becoming the seed for flames.
However, bringing back his physical body might enable the refining of a True Self Puppet.
Chen Tianchen gritted his teeth, saying nothing, and continued to duel with the black-robed figure Nineteen.
At this moment.
Boom!!!
A black-robed silhouette broke the sound barrier, rushing from an extreme distance, crossing the sky!
In the blink of an eye, it charged straight into the battlefield where Elder Zhaoguang was.
"Another one?" Already barely able to fend off, Zhaoguang's face turned deathly pale at the sight.
He was no match even for a single black-robed figure.
And now, with another one..... wouldn't this be a certain death situation?
"Could it be..... that today I will truly be buried here?" Elder Zhaoguang sighed inwardly, looking ashen.
"So be it, we cultivators dying in battle can be considered a worthy end!"
Just as he couldn't help but plan a final desperate attack.
He suddenly discovered that the black-robed figure wearing the White Ten Mask was actually attacking the opposing black-robed person.
"Hmm??" Elder Zhaoguang looked bewildered, his face stunned.
"Where did this little ant come from?"
The Spider Web black-robed person Twenty-three frowned and directly opened a large hand exuding a metallic luster, reaching for the suddenly attacking white masked black-robed figure.
Boom——!!!
Chen Zhixing punched out with great force, fully unleashing his power.
The large hand extended by the black-robed person Twenty-three, just upon touching Chen Zhixing's fist, was instantly shattered like dry rot.
The next moment.
Without any unnecessary words.
Chen Zhixing stepped forward, spread out his hand, and directly grabbed the face of the black-robed person Twenty-three, fiercely plummeting it towards the ground.
Boom!!!
Like a comet hitting the Earth, an earth-shattering bang exploded!
Endless dust billowed up.
Amidst the pervasive dust, Chen Zhixing's large hand gripped the face of the black-robed person Twenty-three, smashing it down hard to the ground.
Bang!
Bang bang!!
Bang bang bang!!!
Again and again!
The Ox Demon roared a low cry!!
The whole earth trembled wildly!!
In just ten breaths of time.
The pervasive dust turned into wisps and strands, blown away by the wind.
A giant pit spanning a hundred feet appeared on the earth.
Inside the pit.
"This is what you call the Flesh Body Tao? Too weak."
Chen Zhixing released the now pile of minced flesh that was the black-robed person Twenty-three without any hesitation, shifting his gaze to another Spider Web black-robed figure.
"The third one."
Boom——!!
Chen Zhixing stamped his right foot, swiftly diving skyward.
Elder Zhaoguang only saw a blur before his eyes, and Chen Zhixing had already brushed past him, appearing in front of the last remaining Divine Travel black-robed figure.
"So..... so strong!!"
The fierce wind forced Elder Zhaoguang to retreat several steps involuntarily.
Elder Zhaoguang's heart shook wildly, gasping in shock.
The black-robed person he fought earlier was a cultivator specializing in the Flesh Body Tao, yet despite his strenuous efforts, he couldn't even break through their defense.
And now.... just like that, they were crushed with ease?
"Wait! Is this.... an internal conflict among them?" A ridiculous thought surged in Elder Zhaoguang's mind.
Meanwhile, on the other side.
Chen Zhixing moved at a speed to the extreme, before the thin stature Spider Web black-robed person could even react, he had already kicked them down from high altitude.
"I... I'm not a match."
In merely an instant, the Spider Web black-robed person discerned that they were absolutely not an adversary of this mysterious newcomer.
Seeing Chen Zhixing rapidly attacking once more.
This Spider Web black-robed person took a deep breath, quickly formed a seal with both hands, and an expression of calm emerged on their face.
"Praise Longevity Heaven!"
This Spider Web black-robed person swelled up like being inflated.
Boom——!!
The Spider Web black-robed person exploded instantly, their physical body and Spiritual Soul both transforming into a shock wave, crashing towards Chen Zhixing.
Chapter 54: Chapter 54 What Should I Call You?
The violent shockwave forced Chen Zhixing to retreat several steps.
After the shockwave dissipated, Chen Zhixing couldn't help but frown, his expression becoming somewhat uncertain.
The black-robed figure from the Spider Web organization, he didn't originally intend to kill, hence he didn't use lethal force.
Instead, he planned to capture this person alive, to interrogate about what the 'fire seed' actually was.
However, this black-robed figure, upon realizing he was no match for Chen Zhixing, immediately chose self-destruction!
Not giving Chen Zhixing any chance whatsoever!
This kind of decisiveness and ruthlessness is simply unimaginable.
"Whether it was the tentacled black-robed figure who initially chased me, or the black-robed figure from the Flesh Body Tao just now, they showed no resistance to death... who exactly is brainwashing them?"
"And what exactly is this 'Longevity Heaven' they speak of?"
Chen Zhixing furrowed his brows tightly, and after a moment of thought, realizing he couldn't make sense of it, decided not to ponder any further.
He then looked up to the sky and lightly tapped his foot.
Boom!!
Instantly, Chen Zhixing soared into the sky, standing at a distance next to the black-robed figure, Shijiu.
At the same time.
Elder Zhaoguang and Elder Guichen exchanged a glance, suppressed their injuries, and also ascended, positioning themselves on the opposite side of Chen Zhixing, encircling the black-robed figure, Shijiu, from all sides.
In an instant, the situation on the scene was reversed!
No one spoke, instead coldly staring at the black-robed figure, Shijiu, their intentions clear.
"Oh?"
The black-robed figure, Shijiu, squinted his eyes, his gaze moving across their faces.
Finally, his gaze landed on Chen Zhixing's face.
"An interesting little fellow."
The next moment.
He casually formed a Dharma Seal with his hands, and the void beneath his feet suddenly twisted.
A vortex of air gradually appeared at his feet.
He understood that in the current situation, killing this Fourth Peak Master of the Chen Family was impossible.
"What a pity."
The black-robed figure, Shijiu, softly uttered.
Hiss hiss hiss!
His figure continuously sank, being swallowed by the air vortex.
"Fourth Master!"
Elder Zhaoguang and Elder Guichen looked towards Chen Tianchen, their meaning simple, whether to make a move to keep this person?
Chen Tianchen lightly shook his head.
"Little fellow, we shall meet again."
In the end, the black-robed figure, Shijiu, cast a meaningful glance at Chen Zhixing.
Chen Zhixing remained expressionless, ignoring him.
The next moment.
His figure was completely swallowed by the air vortex, disappearing into the vast void.
With his departure, the Six-armed Asura also faded and then vanished without a trace.
Pfft!!!
Chen Tianchen could no longer hold back, his knees gave way, and he half-kneeled, spitting out a mouthful of blood.
"Fourth Master!"
"Fourth Peak Master!!"
Elder Zhaoguang and Elder Guichen, seeing this, were greatly alarmed and hurriedly rushed forward to support Chen Tianchen.
"I'm fine."
Chen Tianchen, his face pale as gold paper, waved his hand towards Zhaoguang and Guichen.
Then, forcing himself to stand, he cast a grateful glance at Chen Zhixing.
"How should I address you? Your life-saving grace, I and the Ziwei Chen Family will never forget." Chen Tianchen said sincerely.
Chen Zhixing merely glanced at him without replying, then turned to leave.
"Sir?" Chen Tianchen called out.
However, Chen Zhixing gradually walked away without turning back, eventually disappearing into the vast mountains.
"Truly an eccentric personality."
Chen Tianchen shook his head. He thought this person might have been a master residing in seclusion in the mountains, lending a hand to forge a goodwill relationship with the Chen Family.
But it seemed the person had no intention to ally with the Chen Family.
"Fourth Master, this person is extremely formidable. Judging by his aura, he's only at the Divine Travel Ninth Layer, the same as me and Guichen, yet he effortlessly demolished our foe!" Elder Zhaoguang, gazing in the direction Chen Zhixing had left, couldn't conceal his amazement.
It was his first time witnessing someone of the Divine Travel Realm with such terrifying power!
It utterly reshaped his understanding of the Divine Travel Realm!
Chen Tianchen nodded and said, "The world is vast and boundless; for such a powerful Divine Travel Realm cultivator to appear isn't impossible. Many long-established Divine Travel cultivators, who have spent centuries honing their skills, possess the strength to easily kill peers.
This Daoist friend must be such a person.
It's a pity we couldn't get his name, otherwise, we should prepare a grand gift to express our gratitude in the future."
With these words, Guichen and Zhaoguang both nodding in agreement.
Indeed.
If not for this white-faced black-robed man today, they might have perished here!
Even the Chen Family would likely face turbulence.
Thinking about this, they all felt a shiver down their spines and their hairs stood on end.
Chen Tianchen still wanted to comment but suddenly seemed to remember something. His face abruptly changed as he said:
"Not good!"
"Quick! Go find Chen Zhaosheng and Zhixing!"
Hearing this, Guichen and Zhaoguang's hearts jolted, and their expressions changed dramatically as they hurried off to search.
...
...
At the same time.
After completely leaving the sight of Chen Tianchen and the others, Chen Zhixing then slipped into a thicket.
He soon entered a cave. After confirming with his Divine Thought that no one had followed, he breathed a sigh of relief.
"The True Self Realm and the Divine Travel Realm seem only one realm apart, but the gap is vast."
As he took off the black robe, Chen Zhixing recalled the battle scene between Chen Tianchen and the black-robed figure, Shijiu, using their Dharma Aspects, feeling a slight sense of awe.
This made him even more determined to step into the True Self Realm early and condense his first Heaven and Earth Dharma Aspect!
Currently, he had the True Self Pill and the Nine Gods Technique.
The only thing missing was some time to choose his first Great Tao Seed, deciding which Great Tao to follow!
"After this trial in the Southern Border, I shall return to the Chen Family to break through to the True Self Realm."
"Also, I must figure out what exactly the Spark Plan is, and what these people are up to."
Inexplicably, as Chen Zhixing thought of the first tentacled black-robed figure he killed, he felt a slight sense of foreboding.
What that person said about how he would complete the most perfect link in the Spark Plan made Chen Zhixing feel inexplicably uneasy.
He also felt a slight sense of regret.
This action, though seemingly flawless, had a fatal flaw!
Which was that the black-robed individual who took Chen Zhaosheng's corpse had seen his true face.
It's likely that once the black-robed individual learns about today's event, he will quickly associate it with him.
Then, it might lead to another trouble.
"The storm is coming; I can only grow stronger quickly to have the ability to counter risks." Chen Zhixing took a deep breath, clarity showing in his eyes.
Soon after.
Chen Zhixing flipped his right hand and placed the discarded black robe into his Storage Ring.
Replacing it was a moon-white long robe he previously wore, along with a white folding paper fan.
He carefully placed the Death Spirit Mask against his chest, and tucked the white folding fan behind his head.
Then.
He staggered out of the cave, his face quickly showing a look of panic and fear, shouting desperately while gasping for air:
"Elder, Fourth Uncle, where are you all...?"
Chapter 55: Chapter 55: The End! Trust me once more, Your Highness!
"Third Young Master?!"
Upon hearing Chen Zhixing's call, Zhaoguang and Guichen, who were searching high in the sky, hurried over.
They looked him up and down and, seeing that Chen Zhixing was not seriously harmed, they sighed with relief, saying, "Third Young Master, where have you been these past few days?"
Chen Zhixing replied honestly, "Not long after the trial began, two of the Chen family's collateral disciples tried to snatch my wristband. Luckily, they weren't strong, and after I knocked them out, I feared others would come for me, so I hid in a cave."
Upon hearing this,
Zhaoguang and Guichen exchanged glances, both finding it somewhat amusing yet ridiculous.
"The Third Young Master certainly has great fortune..." Elder Zhaoguang couldn't help but remark.
Of the dozens of Chen family disciples who came for the trial, almost all are now heavily injured and unconscious. Some unfortunate ones, being at the center of Chen Tianchen and the black-robed man Shijiu's fight from the beginning, turned instantly into a mist of blood.
Only this Third Young Master, by sheer luck, managed to escape unscathed.
"What happened?" Chen Zhixing asked, confused.
"Ah, it's a long story..." Elder Zhaoguang sighed deeply, then, as if recalling something, turned serious and asked:
"By the way, Third Young Master, have you seen the Eldest Young Master?"
"Brother Zhaosheng?" Chen Zhixing shook his head and replied, "I hid in the cave on the first day and haven't seen him."
Hearing this, Elder Zhaoguang and Elder Guichen exchanged another glance, both seeing a deep gloom in each other's eyes.
They had been searching for Chen Zhaosheng here for several hours.
But apart from finding Chen Zhaosheng's shattered wristband, they hadn't seen any trace of him.
They couldn't help but think of the five black-robed men who had rushed in first, two of whom headed towards Chen Zhaosheng, making their hearts feel like they were burdened by a heavy stone, turning their expressions extremely grave.
"The Eldest Young Master shoulders the future of the Chen Family. If something happened to him..." Guichen said with a complex expression, seemingly already imagining the upheaval the Chen Family would face.
Before he could finish speaking,
Zhaoguang stopped him with a glance and said solemnly, "This matter is not ours to discuss. Everything waits for Fourth Master to decide."
Immediately afterwards,
Zhaoguang and Guichen searched the nearby area for another half an hour. Seeing they couldn't find any trace of Chen Zhaosheng, they had no choice but to leave with Chen Zhixing.
On the way, Zhaoguang and Guichen briefly recounted the recent events to Chen Zhixing, especially when mentioning the person with the White Ten Mask, their emotions became quite fervent.
"Is that so? I didn't expect there to be such a benevolent figure in the world."
Chen Zhixing immediately echoed in amazement.
Upon returning to the deck,
Chen Tianchen was sitting cross-legged, healing his wounds.
Seeing Chen Zhixing arrive, he sighed in relief, stood up to greet him, and gave Chen Zhixing a strong hug.
"Luckily you're okay, Zhixing, otherwise I wouldn't know how to explain to Brother Zhaosheng!"
"Fourth Uncle, are you alright?" Chen Zhixing quickly asked.
Upon hearing this, Chen Tianchen managed to force a smile and said, "I'm fine, luckily, I encountered a Daoist friend hiding here who helped out, or else it would have been very difficult today.
That person is a great benefactor to me and even to the Chen Family!"
"Yes, I heard Elder Zhaoguang and the others mention it." Chen Zhixing nodded, curious, "Fourth Uncle, where is this person? We should invite him to the Chen Family to properly express our thanks."
Chen Tianchen laughed bitterly and said, "That Daoist friend has an eccentric personality; after helping, he didn't leave his name and just left. But the person was wearing a White Ten mask—if you meet him in the future, you must thank this senior properly.
This senior is truly a good person."
"Understood." Chen Zhixing's expression turned serious, nodding thoughtfully.
He looked as if he had memorized the person's appearance.
"Hmm." Chen Tianchen nodded with satisfaction, then looked toward Zhaoguang and Guichen, and asked, "Still no sign of Chen Zhaosheng?"
"Reporting to Fourth Master, we only found the shattered wristband of the Eldest Young Master," Zhaoguang replied quietly.
"Ah!"
Chen Tianchen let out a long sigh to the sky.
As a core figure of the Chen Family, he fully understood how much the Patriarch valued Chen Zhaosheng.
He was practically regarded as the future successor of the Ziwei Chen Family, without any exaggeration.
This time, Chen Zhaosheng's incident.
He couldn't imagine the extent of madness Patriarch Chen Daoyan would unleash.
And as for the Eldest Brother Chen Tianxiong, he feared...
"Guichen, stay here and continue searching for that child Zhaosheng. The rest of you, come back with me."
As he finished speaking,
Chen Tianchen flipped his right hand, and a leaf-like flying shuttle appeared in his hand.
The flying shuttle expanded with the wind, quickly growing to several dozen feet in size.
"Let's go."
Chen Tianchen swept his large sleeves, enveloping the group of unconscious Chen Family disciples, and with his other hand grabbed Chen Zhixing, stepping onto the flying shuttle.
With a roaring sound!!!
The flying shuttle accelerated instantly, shooting into the sky towards Yanzhou.
...
...
At the same time,
Southern Border, the Hundred Thousand Mountains.
On a distant end.
"Elder Fei Long, why don't I lead the way?"
Mo Qingyue looked exhaustedly at Master Fei Long, who was searching for the path ahead while scratching his head.
Three days!
For a full three days after entering the Southern Border, not only had they failed to find the Chen family's Land of Trial, but they had also strayed further, venturing deep into the heart of the Hundred Thousand Mountains.
She was close to breaking down!
"Your Highness, give me another hour, and I will soon find the path," Master Fei Long vowed confidently.
"...You said the same thing three days ago," Mo Qingyue said, gazing at him quietly.
"Uh."
Master Fei Long winced and then clenched his fist, coughing dryly, "Trust me one more time, Your Highness; I have a feeling this time that the Land of Trial is not far to the east!"
"Yes, Your Highness, believe me; I won't be wrong this time!"
After saying this, Master Fei Long turned and began walking firmly towards the east.
After a few steps,
he noticed Mo Qingyue hadn't followed, and with a puzzled look back, he asked, "Hey? Why aren't you coming, Your Highness?"
Mo Qingyue looked at him exhaustedly and said with complete defeat,
"Elder Fei Long, you're walking northward!"
...
...
At the same time,
in the deepest part of the Hundred Thousand Mountains,
within a deep, damp underground cave,
a whirlpool suddenly appeared on the ground without a sound.
Following this,
a black-robed person wearing a golden spider mask, with the number "Shijiu" engraved on the left forehead, slowly rose from the whirlpool.
A moment later,
the whirlpool vanished without a trace.
The black-robed Shijiu surveyed the area.
Inside the cave, another gaunt black-robed person was already waiting.
Beside him, on a stone bed, lay a corpse in silence.
"My lord, we have obtained the thirty-seventh fire seed. Should we now strip the King's Map from the body?" the gaunt black-robed figure asked in a low voice.
"No rush."
The black-robed Shijiu shook his head, then frowned and asked, "Where's that Purple-Bearded person? Wasn't she with you?"
Upon hearing this, the gaunt black-robed person paused in surprise and laughed, "Reporting to my lord, when I brought back the thirty-seventh fire seed, it was already dead, and the third peak's eldest son of the Chen Family, Chen Zhixing, was nearby.
So, I let Purple-Bearded deal with Chen Zhixing conveniently; didn't she return with you?"
Upon hearing this, the black-robed Shijiu frowned slightly.
Then, a piece of ancient black jade appeared in his hand.
He glanced at it and seemed to sense something, speaking slowly:
"Purple-Bearded... has been killed."
As soon as these words fell,
the gaunt black-robed person's pupils contracted violently.
"What?!" He was instantly plunged into a state of shock.
Chapter 56: Chapter 56: Returning Home, Pear Blossoms in the Rain
"The Purple-Bearded Slippers were killed? This... shouldn't be. The Purple-Bearded Slippers were the strongest among us, and part of a fire seed was transplanted into them, making them extremely difficult to kill. How could they just be killed like that?"
The gaunt man in the black robe said with disbelief.
Black-robed Shijiu didn't speak. Instead, he stepped out of the cave and looked toward the direction of Yanzhou where the Ziwei Chen Family was located, his gaze flickering uncertainly.
"Ziwei Chen Family, Chen Zhixing....."
He kept repeating the name, as if pondering something.
A moment later.
Black-robed Shijiu said softly, "Black Tail, contact the organization in Yanzhou and try to investigate and get close to that Chen Zhixing."
The gaunt man in black robe nodded at the words and said, "Yes."
"Hmm." Black-robed Shijiu paused and added, "When approaching Chen Zhixing, remember to take the testing fire stone; there might be some secrets behind him."
"See if he can be absorbed into the organization. If not, let the organization in Yanzhou eliminate him directly."
...
...
Three days passed in the blink of an eye.
The flying shuttle was much slower compared to the initial Giant Wheel Flying Ship.
It wasn't until noon of the third day that the flying shuttle finally arrived at the Ziwei Chen Family.
After arriving at the Chen Family, Chen Tianchen first dispersed the collateral descendants of the Chen Family and then called Chen Zhixing aside.
"Fourth Uncle, is there something wrong?" Chen Zhixing asked in confusion.
Chen Tianchen glanced around, then lowered his voice and said, "Zhixing, go back and rest first. Otherwise, if you go to the family hall now and your uncle finds out about Chen Zhaosheng's disappearance, he will surely go mad.
At the time, in the entire Land of Trial, apart from the already missing Chen Chou'er, only you were present.
Your uncle is likely to take it out on you. Although he won't take action against you in front of everyone, there might still be some friction."
Hearing this, Chen Zhixing felt a warmth in his heart.
Chen Tianchen was worried that Chen Tianxiong would vent his anger on him.
"Alright, Fourth Uncle, I'll listen to you." Chen Zhixing nodded.
Chen Tianchen slightly smiled and said, "Mm, remember to spend more time with Ling'er on a daily basis. Ling'er has also started practicing. Since you're older, you should teach her more."
"Don't worry, Fourth Uncle." Chen Zhixing responded with a smile.
Chen Tianchen nodded and, without saying more, took Elder Zhaoguang with him to the main peak hall.
Chen Zhixing then went to the Third Peak by himself.
Just as he reached the Third Peak.
"Young Master!"
A voice called out from afar.
Soon after, Chen Zhixing saw Biluo stumbling toward him, then falling into his arms.
"Young Master, yesterday the family sent word that you were attacked. I thought... I thought... *sob* I thought I'd never see you again."
Biluo hugged Chen Zhixing tightly, pressing her cheek against his chest, unable to stop herself from crying.
Looking at Biluo, exhausted and with eyes red from crying, Chen Zhixing knew without guessing that she must have cried herself out since yesterday.
"Little Crybaby, didn't I come back safe and sound? We're all fine, so stop crying." Chen Zhixing gently rubbed Biluo's head and said tenderly with a smile.
"*Sob*... I don't want to cry... but I can't stop... *sob*..." Biluo hugged even tighter, as if afraid of never seeing Chen Zhixing again once she let go.
"Young Master, in this world, you're the only one I have left... you mustn't have anything happen to you."
Listening to Biluo's choked words, a warmth spread through Chen Zhixing's heart, so he chose not to say much more.
Not until Biluo finished crying and calmed down did he joke, "Don't worry, who is your young master if not someone blessed with great fortune? Even if others don't come back, your young master always will."
After pausing, Chen Zhixing smiled slightly and said, "Besides, I haven't had enough of your braised lion's head yet, how could I not come back for it?"
Hearing this, the exhausted Biluo couldn't help but laugh.
"Young Master, you always tease me." Biluo reluctantly drew back from Chen Zhixing's arms, then wiped her eyes with a smile and said:
"Young Master, I'll go make you some braised lion's head right away."
With that, Biluo bounded cheerfully toward the kitchen.
Watching Biluo's retreating figure, Chen Zhixing couldn't help but smile softly.
Perhaps.
The reason for cultivating and growing stronger is to lessen the worry and fear of those who care about you, right?
A moment later.
Biluo came over with a bowl of steaming braised lion's head.
"Young Master, eat quickly. If it's not enough, I'll make more for you." Biluo said.
"Alright."
Chen Zhixing nodded.
Then, as Chen Zhixing started eating, Biluo sat beside him, resting her chin in her hands, just watching him eat.
...
...
In the blink of an eye.
A day passed.
During this day, Chen Zhixing paid no attention to the outside world, instead focusing on comprehending the "Nine Gods Technique."
[Ding! You have pondered over the 'Nine Gods Technique' day and night. With your Heaven-defying Comprehension, you have perfected this technique and, after stepping into the True Self stage, will establish nine Great Tao Foundations within your Spiritual Sea!]
A system notification sounded abruptly in his mind.
"It's done!"
A faint smile appeared on Chen Zhixing's face.
Now everything was ready, except for the True Self!
"Next, it's time to determine which Great Tao Seed to condense in the First Layer of the True Self."
Chen Zhixing mused softly.
In fact, over the past few days, Chen Zhixing had already found the answer in his heart.
Currently, there are two paths he can choose to condense for the Great Tao.
One is the Divine Thought Tao.
The other is the Power Tao!
"The Divine Thought Tao is full of wonders and complexities. Although it's simple to condense, more thought is required to form the Heaven-Earth Manifestation Map..."
"Relying solely on the Hundred Refinements Divine Weapon Technique as a foundation to condense the Hundred Soldiers Map seems a bit too wasteful."
"Therefore, the Divine Thought Tao can wait, and the Power Tao should be condensed first..."
Chen Zhixing's eyes flickered constantly.
While he was pondering over this.
"Young Master, come out for some noodles!"
Biluo knocked on the door outside.
"Alright." Chen Zhixing quickly collected his thoughts and left the room.
A moment later.
As Chen Zhixing was eating the noodles with "slurp" sounds, Biluo leaned in and said in a low voice:
"Young Master, I heard something big happened at the main peak yesterday!"
"Oh? What happened?" Chen Zhixing raised an eyebrow.
"Yesterday, the Patriarch sent people to check the soul lamp and found that the soul lamp of the eldest son, Chen Zhaosheng, was completely extinguished! This means the eldest son has passed away, and Peak Master Chen Tianxiong was so furious that he spat blood on the spot!"
"Afterward, Peak Master Chen Tianxiong vented all his anger on the Fourth Peak Master, blaming poor management of the Heaven-Sinking Peak for the eldest son's death!"
"If not for the Patriarch being present, Peak Master Chen Tianxiong would have taken the Fourth Peak Master's life right there!" Biluo quickly explained, adding a note at the end:
"These are all things I heard from the maids at the main peak, so I don't know how true it is."
While she was speaking.
A servant responsible for guarding the peak gate hurried in.
"Third Young Master, the Patriarch has ordered you to go to the main hall, as there's something to be told to you."
Chapter 57: Chapter 57: Showdown, See What Realm I Am In?
"Did the Patriarch give the order?"
Chen Zhixing raised his eyebrows slightly.
Chen Daoyan was one of the few in the entire family who knew his 'true talent'. Naturally, he understood that the excuse Chen Zhixing and Chen Tianchen gave wasn't that simple.
"Okay."
Chen Zhixing nodded and followed the servant to the main peak.
The Ziwei had ten peaks.
Among them, the main peak was located in the middle of the ten peaks and was the highest peak.
When Chen Zhixing arrived at the main peak with the servant, the usually bustling main hall was eerily silent today.
The magnificent main hall was deep and dim, making it hard to see the depths.
"Third Young Master, the Patriarch is waiting for you inside."
The servant said, then respectfully withdrew.
Chen Zhixing nodded, his expression calm as usual, stepping into the hall.
"You've come."
A hoarse voice echoed from the depths of the hall.
Chen Zhixing paused, raising his eyes to look inside.
On the cold stone seat sat an old man with white hair, his face full of fatigue.
The once straight and imposing back was now hunched over.
He appeared to have aged several decades, exuding an air of decrepitude.
"Patriarch."
Chen Zhixing slightly bowed and clasped his hands.
Overall, Chen Zhixing was quite grateful for this Patriarch of the Chen Family.
Although the two rarely interacted, over the years, his food, clothing, and all kinds of resources had never been lacking.
"Come and sit."
Chen Daoyan pointed to a seat beside him.
"Okay."
Chen Zhixing nodded and sat beside Chen Daoyan.
However, when Chen Zhixing sat down beside him,
Chen Daoyan intended to exchange some pleasantries first, but realized he knew too little about the child beside him, unsure of where to start.
For a moment, the atmosphere in the hall was silent and stiff.
Chen Zhixing remained calm, not in a hurry.
After a while.
"Tianxiong, that guy, hasn't given you any trouble these past few days?" Chen Daoyan asked.
"No." Chen Zhixing shook his head in response.
"Hmm, Zhaosheng was Tianxiong's greatest effort, and his death in the Southern Border may lead to some extreme behavior due to his grief, which you should understand.
But you can rest assured, I have sternly instructed him, and he shouldn't trouble you in the short term," Chen Daoyan thought aloud.
"Hmm, the pain of losing a son, I can naturally understand." Chen Zhixing replied calmly and confidently.
After these words fell.
The atmosphere once again turned stiff.
"You..." Chen Daoyan raised his hand, intending to pat Chen Zhixing's head like an ordinary elder.
But as soon as he raised his hand, he felt the gesture was too unfamiliar.
So he put his hand down, sighed slightly, and said, "Over the years, because you are a Nine Ancient Patterner, I cannot get too close to you, for fear of suspicion, and have let you hide your talents and mar your name, resulting in much gossip. Instead, I've given Zhaosheng a lot of attention, allowing him to make a name for himself in the Chen Family. Have you ever harbored any resentment in your heart?"
Chen Zhixing felt a stir in his heart.
Is this a test of his sentiments?
"Patriarch, you think too much. Over the years, the Chen Family hasn't treated me poorly, and I know that the Patriarch's distance from me was to better protect me. I'm not stupid; how could I harbor resentment?" Chen Zhixing replied sincerely.
These words he spoke were all truths.
Regarding Tianxiong's lineage, he indeed had no fondness.
But towards this Patriarch who was only dedicated to strengthening the Chen Family, his feelings were not bad.
Seeing this, Chen Daoyan carefully looked at Chen Zhixing, seeing the genuine expression on his face, not feigned. He couldn't help but feel comforted and nodded, saying:
"Good, worthy to be a direct descendant of the Ziwei Chen Family, rational and understanding, discerning right from wrong!"
Chen Daoyan's expression grew a bit more excited and he asked, "Zhixing, I previously heard from the participating side branches in the trial, you had directly knocked out two Void Transformation Realm side branches?"
"Indeed." Chen Zhixing nodded.
"Good, then let me ask you, now..."
Chen Daoyan's voice deepened, his gaze intense.
"What exactly is your realm?!"
At this moment, Chen Daoyan's murky eyes became extraordinarily clear.
His gaze was like a lightning bolt, fixed firmly on Chen Zhixing, not wanting to miss any subtle expressions on his face.
He was in his twilight years.
Whether his cultivation or physical state, both were in continual decline.
And his cultivation reaching the Nirvana Realm was already his limit!
It was impossible to break through further!
Therefore.
He must quickly find a new successor for the Chen Family while he still held influence!
Originally, his target was Chen Zhaosheng.
Chen Zhaosheng was exceptionally talented, outwardly calm, but inwardly ambitious and highly competitive.
Such a person wasn't inherently good or bad but was precisely suited to lead the Chen Family's rise!
But now, with Chen Zhaosheng killed by the Spider Web, his entire plan collapsed.
His only hope lay with Chen Zhixing, whom he wasn't initially optimistic about but was also a Nine Ancient Patterner.
Summoning Chen Zhixing here today, he had only one goal.
To get Chen Zhixing to reveal to him his true level of cultivation.
In simple terms.
Chen Zhixing's cultivation would determine his future control of the entire clan's direction!!
If Chen Zhixing's cultivation was too low, he'd have to find another path for the Chen Family.
Or allow Chen Tianxiong to become the next successor.
"Cultivation, hmm?"
Chen Zhixing thought for a while, then lowered his gaze, gently forming a seal with his right hand.
Swoosh.
A shadow almost identical to Chen Zhixing in appearance emerged from his body.
"See what realm I am,"
Chen Zhixing and the shadow looked at Chen Daoyan, speaking in unison with a single voice.
Boom—!!!
In an instant.
Chen Daoyan's heart pounded, and his mind was thrown into turmoil.
"Yin Spirit Emergence? You... you've reached the Divine Travel Realm?!" Chen Daoyan stared intently at the shadow, his usually calm face swiftly filled with shock and doubt.
Divine Travel Realm!
Merely a teenager in the Divine Travel Realm!!
This, even if combing through ancient history, was one of a kind in the entire cultivation world!!
"Yes, I had some insights in the Southern Border a few days ago, and just broke through to the Divine Travel Realm,"
Chen Zhixing nodded slightly, projecting his aura as if he had just entered the Divine Travel Realm.
He wasn't foolish. He kept a low profile and hid his talents in the outside world to avoid unnecessary trouble for himself and the Chen Family.
The current Chen Family appeared prosperous but was already showing signs of decay, unable to withstand turmoil.
But for Chen Daoyan, the stronger Chen Zhixing's revealed strength, the more benefits he could gain!
Given this, why hide and let others look down on him intentionally?
Of course.
No matter how much he revealed his strength, Chen Zhixing would never disclose all his cards.
Doing so would leave him no room for maneuver.
"Hahaha, it's truly the Divine Travel Realm!"
Upon confirmation from Chen Zhixing, Chen Daoyan's eyes flashed brightly, looking at Chen Zhixing with a face of utter excitement.
His previously weary expression suddenly became animated as if a white cloth lifted, filling with enthusiasm.
Even his breathing became more labored.
"Good, good, good, this is the heavens not abandoning my Chen Family!!"
Chen Daoyan extended a large hand, grasping Chen Zhixing's, then asked with fervent eyes:
"Child, are you willing to manage the entire Ziwei Chen Family?"
Chapter 58: Chapter 58: Guardian! Ruan Family of Youzhou, Ruan Nanzhu!
When Chen Daoyan finished speaking.
Chen Zhixing couldn't help but be slightly stunned.
He had considered secretly forming a faction to serve himself, as he would need a large number of people to gather cultivation techniques for him later on.
But as for leading the Chen Family, he truly had never thought about it.
"Patriarch, I am still young; discussing this matter now might be a bit premature, don't you think?" Chen Zhixing pondered and said.
Chen Daoyan was momentarily stunned by these words, then laughed dumbfoundedly: "There's some truth in what you say. I got a bit carried away, perhaps I was a bit too eager."
Afterward, he looked Chen Zhixing up and down, feeling more and more satisfied, his eyes shining as he said:
"Indeed, it might be a bit early to talk about leading the Chen Family, but it's never too soon to become acquainted with it."
"So, our Ziwei Chen Family has ten spirit veins in Yanzhou. How about I hand over five of these spirit veins to your Third Peak to manage?"
Before Chen Zhixing could respond.
Chen Daoyan continued after thinking for a bit: "Hmm, the Third Peak has too few people. Later on, I will arrange for three clan elders at the Peak of Divine Travel to guard the Third Peak for its protection, and if you have any questions in your cultivation, you can consult them."
"Oh, and currently you are the only hope of our Chen Family, no accidents should happen."
"You should have some means of self-protection."
Speaking of this, Chen Daoyan turned to look behind the main hall and called out: "Elder Nether."
As soon as he finished speaking.
An endless black mist silently surged from behind Chen Daoyan.
Subsequently, the black mist transformed into an ominous and stern old man with a decayed face.
"Patriarch." The ominous old man clasped hands towards Chen Daoyan, then looked at Chen Zhixing and nodded slightly, saying:
"Third Young Master."
"Younger Chen Zhixing greets Elder Nether." Chen Zhixing stood up and bowed.
Regarding the ominous old man before him, he had vaguely heard rumors.
It was said that behind the Patriarch of the Ziwei Chen Family, Chen Daoyan, there were two peerless experts, known as the Netherworld Elders, who secretly protected the Chen Family.
This Elder Nether should be one of them.
"Elder Nether, from now on you will not stay by my side, just do as Zhixing instructs."
Chen Daoyan said to Elder Nether.
Clearly, Chen Daoyan was afraid that Chen Zhixing might encounter unexpected accidents like Chen Zhaosheng did, so he arranged for a guardian for Chen Zhixing.
"I will strictly follow the Patriarch's orders."
Elder Nether glanced at Chen Daoyan, then looked over to Chen Zhixing, smiling as he said: "Third Young Master, please take care of me in the future."
Seeing this, Chen Zhixing's face couldn't help but show hesitation.
He had too many secrets on him, and having a guardian would inevitably be inconvenient.
"Zhixing, you must not refuse this, Elder Nether is a Half-Step Nirvana Realm expert, with him by your side, I can also be more at ease."
Pausing, Chen Daoyan smiled and said: "You don't need to worry about Elder Nether following you around at all times. If you need, you can ask him to step aside."
Hearing this, Chen Zhixing could only clasp his hands and say: "Thank you, Patriarch."
"We are all family, no need to be so formal."
Chen Daoyan smiled at Chen Zhixing, then with another flip of the right hand, a pristine and spotless Snow Feather Robe appeared in his hand.
"This Snow Feather Robe, was mine in the past, wearing it can at least withstand three full-force attacks from the True Self Realm, it has saved my life many times back then.
Take it."
After that, Chen Daoyan took out several dharma treasures of the True Self Realm and handed them to Chen Zhixing.
This solved a pressing problem for Chen Zhixing.
Currently, he lacks neither cultivation techniques nor cultivation.
The only thing missing is some defensive treasures to protect himself.
Finally, a full hour later.
Chen Daoyan reluctantly stopped the conversation.
Just as Chen Zhixing was about to take his leave.
Chen Daoyan seemed to recall something and said with a smile:
"Oh right, Zhixing, if you have time these days, you should make a trip to Youzhou."
"Youzhou?" Chen Zhixing raised an eyebrow.
"That's right."
Chen Daoyan nodded and said: "The Ruan Family in Youzhou is considered an affiliate of our Ziwei Chen Family. Over the years, they have always been quite obscure."
"But this time, the Ruan Family gave birth to a talented daughter named Ruan Nanzhu."
"This girl, at just sixteen, has become renowned in Youzhou, not only possessing peerless beauty, but her cultivation has reached the Clarity Seventh Layer."
"Such talent and cultivation, while not matching yours, is still outstanding in today's cultivation realm."
"The Ruan Family Patriarch has sent me several letters, wanting to send Ruan Nanzhu to the Chen Family for further training, so you go to greet her."
Saying this, Chen Daoyan paused, giving Chen Zhixing an ambiguous look.
He lightly coughed, saying:
"Zhixing, with your unmatched talent, it is time to consider a marriage, to leave some descendants for the Chen Family."
Chen Zhixing did not speak, but when he heard the name 'Ruan Nanzhu', his heart suddenly trembled fiercely.
Youzhou?
Ruan Nanzhu?
The one who would later be known as the Skydominating with Bare Hands, the one who made armies avoid Youzhou, Ruan Nanzhu?
Chen Zhixing's pupils slightly constricted.
In 'Great Cultivation', there were a total of nine main storylines.
Among them, the Ye Chen that Chen Zhixing killed before belonged to the "Sword God Chapter".
In this Chapter, Ye Chen was the undisputed main male character, whose story told of his rise to become the new Sword God with the Sword God inheritance and the Cyan Pheasant Divine Sword.
Qing'er, was the main female character in this "Sword God Chapter".
Whereas Ruan Nanzhu was from another main line, known as the "Household Servant Chapter" main female character!
In the 'Great Cultivation' forums of the past life, Ruan Nanzhu had a massive following.
Her popularity was one of the top three in the entire 'Great Cultivation'!
"[Immortal Demon Body! Unparalleled Skills!]"
"[In the past five hundred years, Ruan Nanzhu can be called the most extraordinary woman in the world!]"
"[At seven, I caught a cicada, and thought I caught the entire summer; at seventeen, I gripped a sword, and truly grasped the entire Jianghu!]"
"[She once faced thousands and laughed: [Guqin and Pipa, the Eight Kings; Spirits and Phantoms, the Four Minor Ghosts!"
"[Under the Kunlun moon, she once beheaded the sinister Sword God of the older generation!]"
"[She asked at a song battle with Yao Yue: How do I compare to the Heavenly Lord in the sky?]"
It can be said.
While Chen Zhixing was immersed in his memories.
"Zhi'er?"
Chen Daoyan asked, seemingly seeing if Chen Zhixing disdained Ruan Nanzhu in some way.
"No, I was just thinking about something else." Chen Zhixing said, deep in thought upon hearing 'Ruan Nanzhu'.
Now that Ruan Nanzhu had started showing her talent, it probably wouldn't take long before she would shine brightly and distinguish herself.
Although he used to be interested in this character, at present, he wasn't overly concerned with matters of romance.
But...
"Hmm, then you shall go to Youzhou when you have time in these coming days, it will put my heart at ease to have you engage with Ruan Nanzhu."
Chen Daoyan smiled faintly.
"Understood."
Chapter 59: Chapter 59 Whoever messes with Chen Zhixing dies!
As Chen Zhixing walked out of the Patriarch's Hall, the bright sunlight greeted him.
Chen Zhixing squinted his eyes.
Youzhou, he had to make a trip there.
Firstly, because of the matter with Ruan Nanzhu.
If the Celestial Chosen Protagonist of that 'Household Servant Chapter' is there, he must find a way to kill him.
To seize his Fortune and Golden Finger.
No matter if this Celestial Chosen Protagonist still poses a threat to him now, or a threat to the Chen Family.
In such matters, it's better to kill mistakenly than to let go.
He didn't want to become one of those blind and arrogant villains in some melodramatic novels, who, because they underestimated the Celestial Chosen Protagonist, end up overturned in a ditch, bringing upon themselves a fatal disaster.
A protagonist with full Fortune, plus possessing a Golden Finger.
Adding in a Ruan Nanzhu with boundless potential.
The Chen Family's ship that had sailed from the old era, already riddled with holes, might truly be overturned.
Secondly.
The place of Sword God's inheritance happens to be in Youzhou.
He himself had to make a trip there too.
In addition, he also needed to break through to the True Self Realm, if he were to break through at Ziwei Mountain, it would inevitably cause too much commotion.
This opportunity to go out and break through was just right.
While Chen Zhixing was contemplating these things, he walked down the main peak.
Just as he was about to head to the Third Peak.
"Third Young Master!"
A Chen Family disciple responsible for guarding the mountain gate came running over, "Third Young Master, I was just planning to look for you at the Third Peak, and it's perfect that I ran into you here."
"Oh? What's the matter?" Chen Zhixing raised his eyebrows slightly.
"Third Young Master, someone from the Black Dragon Gang has come down the mountain, named Xuu Dalong, claiming to have important business and wants to see you." The Chen Family disciple said.
"Xuu Dalong?"
Chen Zhixing squinted his eyes, what was this guy looking for him for?
"Alright, take me to see him." Chen Zhixing nodded and then walked toward the mountain gate.
...
...
Meanwhile.
In a dim and quiet Patriarch's Hall in the main peak.
Chen Daoyan's gaze gradually followed Chen Zhixing's figure departing.
"Patriarch, the family's mine veins were previously managed by the line of Chen Tianxiong, now that you have handed the mines over to be managed by the Third Peak, I'm afraid Chen Tianxiong will be dissatisfied, right?" Elder Nether frowned and said.
"What if he's dissatisfied? Even if he is, let him hold it in!"
Chen Daoyan said expressionlessly: "Previously, Chen Tianxiong occupied the mine veins and benefited for so many years, by not pursuing this, I am already giving him immense face, does he still dare to be dissatisfied?"
Elder Nether nodded and said: "I just fear that Chen Tianxiong might secretly cause trouble for the Third Young Master. The sudden death of Zhaosheng is still not thoroughly investigated, Chen Tianxiong has always been suspicious of the Third Young Master, and now that you have moved all the configurations of the First Peak to the Third Peak, I fear he may take extreme actions!"
"Extreme?"
Upon hearing this, a ruthless coldness gradually emerged in Chen Daoyan's eyes as he said indifferently: "Right now, Chen Zhixing is the only hope for my Chen Family, I don't care who it is, if they attempt to harm Chen Zhixing, they will be my enemy, and the enemy of the entire Ziwei Chen Family!"
At this moment, on Chen Daoyan's aged face, traces of a sinister severity could be seen.
As if a dormant old wolf in the dark night, revealing its sharp white fangs.
Elder Nether nodded in response, understanding in his heart that the Patriarch currently seemed to have reached a dead end and was placing all valuable resources on Chen Zhixing.
Now, Chen Zhixing was Chen Daoyan's reverse scale.
Whoever moves, dies!
"I have always been simple in my actions; whoever benefits the Chen Family, I am favorable towards. But if anyone is blind enough to hinder the development of the Chen Family, then I want them dead!"
Chen Daoyan's eyes flickered, and he spoke with a face devoid of joy or sadness: "A dead Qilin Child no longer holds any value, if anyone acts against the living because of it, then I, as the Patriarch, shall show no mercy."
"What the Patriarch said is true." Elder Nether nodded agreeably.
Chen Daoyan 'hmm'd' in agreement, but suddenly thought of something, and with a slight smile asked: "Elder Nether, what do you think of this child, Zhixing?"
"The Third Young Master..."
Elder Nether thought for a moment, then hesitantly said: "I don't know much about the Third Young Master, but since the Patriarch has asked, I will speak a few words."
After pausing.
He slowly began to speak:
"To be honest, at first, I thought the Third Young Master, despite a very high talent, was inherently lazy, without any ambition or drive, far inferior to Chen Zhaosheng."
"But today, the Third Young Master revealed his cultivation, which instantly overturned all my previous impressions of him!"
He glanced at Chen Daoyan, and seeing Chen Daoyan gesture for him to continue, his expression turned grave as he said:
"Looking across the entire Ziwei Chen Family, if the Third Young Master does not say anything, who would know he has quietly stepped into the Divine Travel Realm?"
"This means, for the whole ten years, the Third Young Master probably has been continuously advancing in realm; his so-called image of laziness and leisure was merely a performance for outsiders."
"Hidden and not revealed, concealed and not disclosed. Conceal one's capabilities, waiting for the right time to act!"
"To achieve all this... it requires not only an incredibly meticulous mind but also an extremely deep scheming, extraordinary determination, and remarkable skill in disguise!"
"Including this time, as soon as Chen Zhaosheng died, the Third Young Master no longer disguised himself before you, choosing to reveal his sharpness to seek benefits for himself and strip resources from the First Peak. Is this not forcing the Patriarch to make a choice? To protect him at all costs?"
"Every move of the Third Young Master is seamless, nothing short of breathtaking."
"Patriarch, to speak frankly, just now I was thinking, if Chen Zhaosheng hadn't met with an accident this time, even if he had become Patriarch in the future, he would probably be outplayed to death by the Third Young Master."
"Before the Third Young Master, Chen Zhaosheng... is as immature as a child."
When Elder Nether finished speaking with a complex expression,
Chen Daoyan had a faint smile on his face, spread five fingers and said, "Meticulous mind, deep scheming, strong determination, skilled in disguise, egocentric; is this your evaluation of him?"
"Yes, this is all I can see at present." Elder Nether nodded.
"You forgot one thing, the most important thing."
Chen Daoyan shook his head, then raised his head, looking to the boundless void outside the hall.
"Remember some time ago, when Zhixing infuriated Elder Suifeng during the early education class?"
"Of course, I remember." Elder Nether recalled this and couldn't help but chuckle.
"This child Zhixing dares to challenge the paths of his predecessors; this is the thing I value most in him."
Chen Daoyan withdrew his gaze, gently saying, "Do you know? The power of 'questioning' is actually the greatest power in this world, because only by daring to question can there be potential for improvement and transcendence."
"In the world, nothing can be established without breaking the old."
"It is precisely this point that makes me see a glimpse of hope in him amidst the Chen Family's bleak future."
Elder Nether's heart was instantly shaken.
Before he could speak,
Chen Daoyan already said with a faint smile, "On this Youzhou expedition, accompany Zhixing, but do not get too close, nor should you pry into his actions; let him do what he wants, just follow his orders, understand?"
"Understood!" Elder Nether's face turned stern, bowing deeply.
Chen Daoyan nodded in satisfaction, then seemed to think of something, his face gradually turning dark, his eyes flashing with murderous intent:
"And the matter of 'Spider Web', it cannot be easily let go!"
"Remember to have Elder Ming lead the family's Dark Division to investigate this matter."
"Whether Heaven and Earth Reversed or rivers of blood flow."
"In one month, I need to know everything about Spider Web!"
"Although our Ziwei Chen Family has fallen, the tiger's bones still remain. I want the entire East Profound Domain to know that my Chen Family is not a soft persimmon to be squeezed at will, not just anyone can tread on!"
"Whoever wants to step on my Chen Family, I won't hesitate to bite off a chunk of his flesh!"
...
...
Meanwhile,
Chen Zhixing was already led by that Chen Family disciple to the location of the mountain gate.
From a distance, he saw a large and burly figure nervously clutching his chest, hunching his back, and looking around cautiously and anxiously.
"Xuu Dalong, what matter brings you, the leader of the Black Dragon Gang, to personally make a trip?"
With a swipe, Chen Zhixing opened the folding fan in his hand, smiling slightly.
"Third Young Master!"
Xuu Dalong's eyes lit up at Chen Zhixing's arrival, and he jogged up to him.
He glanced around, then lowered his voice and said:
"Third Young Master, my gang received a letter earlier, the sender's name on the envelope is Yuann Bufu, and it stated to be delivered to you."
"Regarding the Third Young Master's matters, how could I dare to slack off? So I immediately came up here myself."
As he spoke, he took out a crunchy yellow envelope from his chest that had become crumpled from being too closely protected.
Fearing Chen Zhixing's misunderstanding, he quickly explained: "Rest assured, Third Young Master, this letter's seal remains intact, I absolutely did not open it privately."
"Yuann Bufu?... Yuann Bufu, huh? Interesting."
Chen Zhixing vaguely guessed something, tore open the envelope, and looked down.
In an instant, a bright light flashed through Chen Zhixing's eyes.
On the letter filled with dense writing, the first line strikingly contained a small line of characters.