Chapter 335: A Battle that Shook the World (Part 2)

Chapter 335: A Battle that Shook the World (Part 2)

Chen Ziyang himself had the blood of a direct disciple of the Celestial Master's Mansion on his hands.

Across from him, Kang Ming was a special case.

In terms of lives taken, Kang Ming had killed soldiers of the imperial court.

However, as far as Chen Ziyang knew, Kang Ming had rarely clashed with disciples of the Celestial Master's Mansion and had not taken any lives from them.

At this juncture, what choice would Kang Ming make?

"I do not intend to surrender to the Celestial Master's Mansion," Kang Ming said calmly.

Chen Ziyang shifted his gaze between Kang Ming and the unconscious Han Wuyou, not responding to his statement.

Kang Ming looked at Han Wuyou calmly and said, "If I hand him over to you, what would you do?"

Chen Ziyang finally replied, "I would find a hidden place, build a new sect altar, and ensure the continuation of the Yellow Heaven Dao."

Kang Ming asked, "How hidden would it be?"

Chen Ziyang asked in return, "How hidden could it be if I hand him over to you?"

This time, Kang Ming answered frankly, "I plan to find an opportunity to take him away from this mortal realm to another world."

Chen Ziyang was startled. "You..."

Kang Ming remained composed. "Lately, there have been various rumors. Aside from the reunification of the Nine Heavens and Ten Realms, I've heard that this mortal realm is not the only one, and there exist other realms beyond the control of the Great Tang Empire."

Chen Ziyang stared at him, filled with surprise and uncertainty.

Kang Ming continued, "Although it's heartbreaking, it's becoming increasingly difficult for our sect to maintain a foothold in this mortal realm.

Even if we hide in the Southern Wasteland, the Northern Desert, or overseas, far from the Great Tang Empire, our situation will only grow more challenging.

Therefore, I'd rather put ourselves in a desperate situation and seek a glimmer of hope beyond this mortal realm."

Chen Ziyang's eyes flickered with uncertainty, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

Kang Ming added, "I know that the environments in other realms may be even more treacherous. But here, in the Great Tang, the tides have turned against us. Even if we stay, we will only be clinging to a fragile existence, waiting for an opportunity to act."

After a moment of silence, Chen Ziyang suddenly asked, "Do you believe that we can make a comeback one day?"

"Anything is possible," Kang Ming replied. "I know what you're suspecting, and you're right. It would be easier for me to surrender to the Celestial Master's Mansion. My reluctance to do so is not because I want to be the head of a chicken rather than the tail of a phoenix. It's because I still have doubts about them.

Even though the Celestial Master's Mansion has expelled the Li family, who's to say they won't repeat the mistakes of the past? Our sect used to be the force that opposed people like Li. As long as we exist, we remind the world of that history."

Chen Ziyang took a deep breath. "You... are the new sect leader. Chen Ziyang greets the sect leader."

Kang Ming said, "There's no rush to discuss that. Although you and I share this thought, the path ahead is treacherous, and even with my determination, I can't guarantee how many twists and turns lie ahead.

It's hard to say how many people will be willing to follow us and how many will make it out alive. Given the significance of this decision, there's no need to force anyone. For now, let those who want to leave go their separate ways."

He lifted his hand and tossed Han Wuyou to Chen Ziyang.

Chen Ziyang caught him and looked up at Kang Ming.

"I'll make two lists," Kang Ming said. "You and I will each be responsible for one, and we'll meet up later."

Chen Ziyang glanced at the list Kang Ming had given him and immediately realized that these were probably the more stubborn disciples of the Yellow Heaven Dao.

Kang Ming's list, then, likely consisted of those who were more easily swayed.

How would Kang Ming handle them?

"Take care, Sect Leader," Chen Ziyang said, without asking further questions. He gave Kang Ming a deep look before leaving with Han Wuyou.

"The Celestial Master's Mansion and the imperial court will definitely continue their pursuit. Be careful," Kang Ming said, understanding the doubts in Chen Ziyang's heart but choosing not to explain further.

He possessed the methods and means to forcibly turn Han Wuyou into a new sect altar, and he wasn't worried about Chen Ziyang causing trouble.

By handing over Han Wuyou, he hoped to ease Chen Ziyang's worries.

The Yellow Heaven Dao was currently at its most dangerous juncture and could not afford any internal strife.

Chen Ziyang's guess was correct.

Kang Ming's other list included those who were relatively more easily swayed and those who had less contact with the outside world and less blood on their hands.

Among them were some outstanding juniors whom Kang Ming held in high regard.

Kang Ming left the snow-capped mountains of Western Sichuan and appeared in one of the branch altars.

Several young disciples stood before him and greeted him respectfully, "Senior Kang."

Kang Ming asked, "How are the others?"

"A young Taoist priest named Xin Beiyuan spoke up, his expression earnest. 'Everyone is feeling quite unsettled, but now that you've taken charge, they've calmed down. However, regarding our future path, we can't help but feel anxious.'

Kang Ming nodded slightly. 'It's understandable.'

He smiled, a rare occurrence, and said, 'My heart is just as muddled. But such is life, and we must continue on the path we've chosen.'

Xin Beiyuan hesitated, wanting to say something more.

Kang Ming's gaze, filled with encouragement, urged him on.

Finally, Xin Beiyuan spoke up. 'Then what about you, Master Kang?'

'I won't be joining the Celestial Master's Mansion,' Kang Ming replied.

The group of young Taoist priests exchanged glances, their eyes betraying their anxiety.

'As for our sect,' Kang Ming continued, 'I will try to forge a new path.'

He stopped Xin Beiyuan, who seemed about to interject, and said, 'Go now, and don't overthink it. After today, refrain from contacting any of us who have left.'

The group withdrew reluctantly.

Shortly after, Xin Beiyuan returned alone. 'Master Kang...'

'There's no need to say more, Xin Beiyuan,' Kang Ming interrupted. 'You possess rare talent and virtue. If our sect were in a prosperous state, I wouldn't hesitate to nurture your potential. However, as we face challenges ahead, traveling and hiding together may hinder your growth. If you choose to join the Celestial Master's Mansion of your own volition and help gather our scattered members, I believe that the current leader of the Celestial Master's Mansion will welcome you with open arms, and you will surely bring great glory to our Daoist Talisman sect.'

'I'm not as talented as you, Master Kang,' Xin Beiyuan said humbly.

'In terms of talent, you surpass me,' Kang Ming acknowledged. 'My only concern is that I might misjudge the people of the Celestial Master's Mansion. But I trust that they won't hold your past associations against you, provided that you sever all ties with us.'

As he watched the young Taoist priest leave, Kang Ming sighed softly.

His gaze, filled with uncertainty, turned once more towards the snow-capped mountains of western Sichuan.

In the past, he had felt great resentment.

Back then, when the Yellow Heaven Dao split, we were the ones in the right, yet now we find ourselves in this dire situation.

As time passed, Kang Ming's sense of indignation gradually faded.

Especially after Qi Shuo and Han Wuyou, master and disciple, chose to side with the Human Realm Country, Kang Ming's feelings towards the Yellow Heaven Dao became more complicated.

On the other hand, the Celestial Master's Mansion had gained great favor.

In addition to Xu Yuanzhen and Tang Xiaotong, there was now Lei Jun.

Although Kang Ming hadn't discussed Lei Jun in detail with Chen Ziyang, he admitted to himself that he admired and even envied Lei Jun.

On a personal level, he was also grateful to Lei Jun for saving his life.

Even with the issues between the Celestial Master's Mansion and the Yellow Heaven Dao, he felt a sense of gratitude towards Lei Jun.

What he wouldn't admit to Chen Ziyang was that he held a glimmer of hope.

Perhaps, the Celestial Master's Mansion could maintain its integrity in the future?

Even with the Li family's toxic influence, if Lei Jun and the others could suppress it generation after generation, preventing it from taking root again, then a different future might unfold.

But was it possible? Kang Ming asked himself.

He hoped so.

However, he wouldn't pin all his hopes on others.

Kang Ming's gaze regained its clarity and determination.

Even if the path ahead was treacherous and arduous, he would strive to keep this other possibility alive.

Even if all his efforts proved futile.

Perhaps, they would meet their end tomorrow...

In the Shu Mountains of Sichuan, Lei Jun gazed towards the southeast, where a golden light streaked across the sky, approaching from the east.

Through the reflection of the Great Ultimate Pre-Heavenly Mirror, he recognized the light as that of his junior martial sister, Tang Xiaotong.

The Celestial Master was in a foul mood.

Adorned with the three treasures of the Celestial Master, she had fought fiercely against the so-called Western White Emperor.

However, upon realizing the unfavorable situation, her opponent had fled.

Tang Xiaotong gave chase but ultimately failed to capture her quarry.

Turning back, she intended to find Huang Xuanpu but learned that he had already been slain by Lei Jun.

The North Sea Whale King had also escaped.

Lei Jun couldn't help but feel frustrated.

With his abundant energy, he yearned for an outlet.

Fortunately, the battle between the Great Tang cultivators and the Inner Shu Mountain cultivators was still ongoing.

Well, you'll do.

Without hesitation, the Celestial Master rushed towards the south of the Bashu Basin.

Due to the distance, Lei Jun couldn't discern the details of the battle.

Without changing his position, he could only observe the outskirts where Lin Yuwei and others were engaged.

Overall, the battle didn't seem to favor the Great Tang cultivators.

Although they had two Ninth Heaven experts, Renzhu Shangren and Fang Jingsheng, the opposing side also boasted top-notch powerhouses and powerful magical artifacts.

However, with the three treasures of the Celestial Master in her possession and her cultivation base, Tang Xiaotong was unlikely to face any significant threat.

As for Xu Yuanzhen, she was currently overseas and hadn't joined the battle.

'Huang Xuanpu is dead?'

Xu Yuanzhen didn't feel particularly bothered by the fact that she hadn't been the one to finish off Huang Xuanpu.

While she had always intended to deal with him personally, she wouldn't let it weigh on her mind.

In fact, she would have been more displeased if Huang Xuanpu had managed to escape.

'Since Xiao Tong has already dealt with the situation in Shu Mountains, I won't rush over there,' Xu Yuanzhen said casually. 'I'm more interested in the Daming Lianqi cultivator she let get away. Let me see if I can find that person.'

Although she was injured, with her current cultivation base, she would need an opponent of at least Huang Xuanpu's caliber, preferably in perfect condition, to present a worthwhile challenge.

Lei Jun didn't say much, only mentioning, 'I obtained a few items from those Human Realm Country cultivators we defeated. Later, we can examine them together.'

'Sure, keep them for now, and we'll take a look later,' Xu Yuanzhen replied.

Lei Jun ended his conversation with Xu Yuanzhen.

Indeed, he had acquired some valuable spoils of war.

Apart from items from Shangnan and Xinxingzi, he also obtained a few precious possessions from Huang Xuanpu.

The rest could wait.

Among Huang Xuanpu's possessions, Lei Jun discovered a rare and exquisite spiritual treasure, the Five Qi Three Caves Dark Yang Crystal.

This treasure had been absent from the Great Tang for many years.

Not only was it rare in the present, but it had also been scarcely seen in the past.

Its function was incredibly powerful, aiding cultivators at the Eighth Heaven in overcoming the tribulations of ascending to the Ninth Heaven and providing protection during times of disaster.

While it didn't guarantee a smooth journey from the Eighth Heaven to the Ninth Heaven, it was still a treasure that top cultivators across the realm would scramble to obtain.

"Even if it only increases the probability of success to a certain extent, it is still a hurdle between the Eighth Heaven and the Ninth Heaven."

Since ancient times, countless Eighth Heaven cultivators have been deterred, never daring to take the risk, and countless Eighth Heaven peak experts have met their demise under the tribulation.

It was indeed rare... Lei Jun put away the heavenly treasure.

On the other side, Elder Miaokuang, who was busy suppressing the crumbling Yellow Heaven Sect Altar, also concluded his communication with his fellow members of the Tianlong Temple.

"Elder Lei, I heard that your sect's Celestial Master Tang has retrieved the Celestial Master's Robe?" Elder Miaokuang inquired.

Lei Jun still looked frail and weak, slowly recuperating his spiritual energy, and nodded slightly:

"With the protection of the ancestors, the Celestial Master's Robe has finally been retrieved from the Human Realm Country, and all three treasures of the Celestial Master have returned to our sect. I, along with the Celestial Master, the senior martial sister, and other Dragon and Tiger disciples, can finally pay respects to the ancestors of our sect."

When Tang Xiaotong emerged from the chaotic void created by the Pre-Heaven Ultimate Mirror, she was draped in a nine-colored glow.

With the three treasures of the Celestial Master in her possession, her dramatic entrance to the Bashu region was awe-inspiring and dazzling.

Now that the Human Realm Country has reached the end of its historical mission, it is time for the Celestial Master's Robe to "return home."

Hence, Lei Jun and the Celestial Master's Mansion no longer hid the fact that the Celestial Master's Robe had returned to Dragon and Tiger Mountain.

Elder Miaokuang exclaimed, "That is indeed a joyous occasion."

............................................

In Suzhou, within the Tianlong Temple, Abbot Miaoxin and Elder Myaoyi sat facing each other.

"With Huang Xuanpu's demise and the return of the Celestial Master's Robe to Dragon and Tiger Mountain, the Celestial Master's Mansion has made a stunning display of power." Elder Myaoyi sighed.

Abbot Miaoxin calmly replied, "Cause and effect are predetermined, and no human force can alter them."

Elder Myaoyi said, "Abbot Miaoxin, what you and Elder Miaokuang discussed earlier seems inappropriate. As monks, we should not speak falsehoods..."

Just now, Abbot Miaoxin and Elder Miaokuang had agreed to leave room for interpretation regarding the death of Abbot Zongcuo.

At that time, the only other person present, aside from Lei Jun, was Elder Miaokuang...

"Abbot Zongcuo was indeed killed by a sword cultivator from outside the Great Tang."

Abbot Miaoxin spoke calmly, "Although Elder Miaokuang's words left room for interpretation, it was to prevent a dispute between the Sumeru Vajra Sect and the Celestial Master's Mansion, and perhaps avert a disaster. As monks, we should act with compassion."

Elder Myaoyi remained silent upon hearing this.

Their relationship with the Sumeru Vajra Sect was rather intricate.

When the other side faced a formidable foe, the Tianlong Temple might not resist.

However, the Tianlong Temple was currently facing internal turmoil.

If there were disturbances within the Great Tang Empire, it would not bode well for them.

It was better to avoid conflict whenever possible.

Moreover, they had been interacting more frequently with the Celestial Master's Mansion recently, and it was beneficial to forge a positive connection.

Furthermore, the situation also involved Monk Faqing.

"What about Abbot Miaohui and the others...?" Elder Myaoyi glanced at Abbot Miaoxin.

Abbot Miaoxin pressed his palms together and sighed softly.

............................................

In the northern seas, amidst the deep ocean, a strange spatial portal appeared, resembling a gaping abyss ready to devour all in its path. However, this invisible beast seemed restrained at the moment.

The forces restraining it were scattered in different directions.

Zhang Teng, the top warrior of the Great Tang Empire, second only to the Empress.

Ye Yan, the clan leader of the prestigious Ye family of Qingzhou.

Gaisheng, a Ninth Heaven monk from the Sumeru Vajra Sect.

And Princess Zhang Ying of Shanyang, another top warrior of the imperial family of the Great Tang.

In addition to them, there were other Great Tang cultivators scattered on the outskirts, assisting in sealing the spatial portal above the northern seas.

Zhang Teng and the others wore solemn expressions, their minds not entirely focused on the spatial portal before them.

"General Dai, together with King Huayang and Mr. Chu of Suzhou, are purging the remnants of the Human Realm Country in the South China Sea."

Someone reported to Princess Zhang Ying, "The Celestial Master Tang has rushed to Bashu to provide aid, and Elder Xu's whereabouts are currently unknown. After killing Huang Xuanpu in the Western Sichuan Snow Mountains, Elder Lei is dealing with a newly discovered Yellow Heaven Sect Altar."

Aside from Princess Zhang Ying, the others had also received this information.

Gaisheng maintained a neutral expression.

Although he had heard that Xu Yuanzhen and Lei Jun were injured, in this campaign against the Human Realm Country, the only casualty among them was his Sumeru Vajra Sect's Abbot Zongcuo.

Was it because Abbot Zongcuo was not strong enough? Even if he wasn't, he shouldn't have been their primary target...

"Abbot Zongcuo was a wise and courageous monk, and his efforts to subdue the evil path were commendable."

Princess Zhang Ying consoled, "In this campaign against the Human Realm Country, Abbot Zongcuo has made outstanding contributions."

Gaisheng spoke slowly, "Your Highness, your words are too kind. Although we monks are detached from worldly affairs, we are unwavering in our determination to eliminate evil and protect the Dao. While I am saddened by Abbot Zongcuo's death, I will not waver in the slightest... However, I hope that the Celestial Master's Mansion will not misunderstand us."

Princess Zhang Ying said, "With the defeat of the Human Realm Country and the retrieval of the Celestial Master's Robe, I believe the Celestial Masters of the Celestial Master's Mansion will appreciate Abbot Zongcuo's intentions."

Ye Yan remained silent, contemplating other aspects of the situation.

Xu Yuanzhen.

Tang Xiaotong.

Both of them had reached the Ninth Heaven and possessed formidable strength.

With their presence, the threat posed by the Celestial Master's Mansion's internal strife exceeded that of any of the current prestigious Confucian families.

Among the current Confucian families, unity was essential to counter the threat.

And now, there was also Lei Jun.

Although Huang Xuanpu was injured, he was still a Ninth Heaven peak Daoist master.

Yet, he was slain by Lei Jun, who was at the Eighth Heaven.

Lei Jun's current strength likely surpassed that of an Eighth Heaven cultivator.

He was also young, talented, and progressing rapidly.

Could the hurdle between the Eighth Heaven and the Ninth Heaven truly hinder him?

Ye Yan couldn't deny the possibility that Lei Jun would one day reach the Ninth Heaven.

The only uncertainty was when and how long it would take.

If the Celestial Master's Mansion had three such Ninth Heaven powerhouses simultaneously, what would become of the Great Tang Empire? What path should the Ye family of Qingzhou take?

Ye Yan glanced at Zhang Teng, who was also silent, his gaze fixed on the Luoyuan entrance.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end