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Chapter 512: The Folly of Youth Knows No Bounds, Yet the World is Never Short of Youth
Chapter 512: The Folly of Youth Knows No Bounds, Yet the World is Never Short of Youth
In the inner sanctum of the Nanyang Sect, within a bamboo courtyard that had been specially prepared, a young man clad in the sect's white robe lay on a bed with his eyes half-closed, his breath long and steady.
His eyes dared not shut completely, a sign of his innate caution, while his prolonged breathing indicated the exhaustion of his spirit and soul.
The usual sternness had faded from his pale face, and a rare softness graced his handsome features.
It seemed as if he was reminiscing about the pancakes from the roadside in Boyun County, the garlic noodles from the Demon-subduing arena in Qingzhou Town, the mutton soup that he had shared over a thousand miles and two meals, and the spicy throat medicine from the dilapidated temple on Xitai Mountain.
And then, after that—
Shen Yi's expression suddenly turned indifferent, and his fingers twitched as he subconsciously reached for his arm.
There used to be a dagger there, but now it was gone.
His steady breath quickened inexplicably, and he opened his clear eyes, a chill flashing in them.
"My story ends here," he said.
By the window, where golden light spilled in, Li Xuanqing turned his head and offered a serene smile. Then, with a hint of curiosity, he asked, "But it seems like your body is full of stories."
"..."
Shen Yi raised an eyebrow and relaxed his body once more.
With a hint of impatience, he averted his gaze.
Standing quietly beside Xuanqing was an old woman, the two of them shoulder to shoulder, gazing at the setting sun.
No one would want such a thing for breakfast, and he was no exception.
"Since the Sect Master Shen has awakened, we shall take our leave," said the Master of the Baohua Sect, finally understanding why Xuanqing had specifically requested her presence to watch over the young Sect Master while he rested. It was clear that the young man lacked a sense of security.
"I bid you farewell," said Xuanqing, bowing politely before pushing open the wooden door.
Sharing his story with Shen Yi was a sign of respect for the Sect Master's strength and a fulfillment of his earlier promise.
By telling it while the other man slept, he hoped to put an end to this grudge, especially now that the weight of the Nanyang Sect rested solely on Shen Yi's shoulders.
"Wait," Shen Yi said, a hint of reluctance in his voice as he sat up and leaned against the wall, calling out to the two who were about to depart.
He casually rubbed his temples and glanced sideways, his tone lazy but his gaze finally turning serious. "Tell it again."
"..."
The two, who had already taken a step out the door, paused and turned back with a hint of confusion.
The gaze of the Master of the Baohua Sect flickered with uncertainty. Despite being a giant at the Unity of Dao realm, she felt that she couldn't quite see through this young man.
He was clearly exhausted beyond measure, and yet, after barely a moment of rest and upon just waking up, he wanted to take the burden upon himself again.
From what she could gather about Xuanqing's character, it was clear that he held Shen Yi in high regard and would offer him a great deal of assistance. However, Xuanqing's earlier actions seemed to indicate that he wanted to write off this debt.
But Shen Yi was unwilling to let it go.
With a sigh, the Master of the Baohua Sect turned to Xuanqing and said, "Now I understand why he is the Sect Master."
Li Xuanqing stood silently, his eyes fixed on Shen Yi, who was still on the bed.
After a long while, he finally smiled and said, "Would you be willing to share your story with us?"
What one doesn't wish for oneself, one shouldn't do to others.
Xuanqing believed that, given his understanding of Shen Yi, the young man was not one to share his burdens with those close to him.
However, what Xuanqing didn't expect was Shen Yi's response.
Shen Yi slowly straightened up, pulled on his long boots, and gently scraped the floor with his heel. Lifting his gaze, he said calmly, "My stories are now buried deep underground."
In his calm tone was a hint of killing intent that even made the Master of the Baohua Sect's eyelids twitch.
Such words didn't seem like something a sect master of an immortal sect should say.
It was as if he were more of a demon cultivator than a cultivator of the Dao.
Li Xuanqing stood frozen in place, then finally let out a bitter laugh. "It was just a momentary folly of youth, something that couldn't be gained even with a struggle."
Using the word "youth" to describe a cultivator with a lifespan of over ten thousand years seemed a bit inappropriate.
However, for geniuses like them, most of their time was spent in dull and tedious cultivation, and they rarely faced setbacks. So it was only natural that they would retain a sense of youthful impetuousness in their hearts.
Li Xuanqing took a half-step back and closed the wooden door again.
Under the slightly nostalgic gaze of the Master of the Baohua Sect, he turned to Shen Yi and said, "It is known to all that Xuanqing is a peerless genius of Hongze. Among the things he has done in his life, the one that has benefited the people of Hongze the most was his union with Ziling, the Purple Dragon Fairy of the East Dragon Palace, bringing thousands of years of peace to Hongze."
"Later, she had the opportunity to ascend to the Heavenly Court."
"I didn't want her to leave, so I risked the entire Nanyang Sect to keep her by my side."
As Li Xuanqing spoke, the Master of the Baohua Sect suddenly gripped her cane tightly and averted her gaze.
It was clear that this description left out many details.
At least, up to this point, Shen Yi didn't feel that this incident had anything to do with youthful impetuousness, nor did he believe that Xuanqing would be the type to destroy his companion out of jealousy.
"They exhausted Hongze's rare gold and jade, as well as various precious treasures, just to make that fairy look even more beautiful."
The Master of the Baohua Sect suddenly continued the story, her eyes fixed on the void as she spoke:
"They had hundreds of cultivators polish her dragon claws, braid her dragon beard, and nurture her dragon horns."
At this point, the Master of the Baohua Sect revealed a mocking smile: "With those luxurious items, they crafted a saddle for her, the likes of which Hongze could not produce a second of, and sent her to the heavens... to be a mount for the immortals."
The companion of a genius of their generation became a beast under the legs of an immortal, amidst the envious blessings of the crowd.
No matter what power it was in Hongze, they all fell silent about this matter and no longer mentioned Xuanqing's name.
In such a situation, the young man finally became angry.
He wanted to ascend to the Heavenly Gate, to be recorded in the Immortal Register, to leave his name in the Heavenly Court for tens of thousands of years.
He didn't want to see his companion under someone else's legs whenever he passed through the Heavenly Gate in the future.
So, on that night, Xuanqing planned everything. He comforted the weeping Purple Dragon Fairy, bade farewell to his master, and decided to give up the Unity of Dao realm and leave Hongze with the fairy, seeking another path to the heavens.
If the plan had been executed perfectly, Hongze would have thought that they had offered up a peerlessly beautiful purple-bearded white dragon, and the Seven Sons would have thought that Xuanqing had left in despair. Apart from the immortals in the heavens possibly discovering that one purple-bearded white dragon was missing during the selection of mounts, nothing else would have happened.
"So, how did it fail?"
The greatest blow to a young man's hot-blooded nature is when the white dragon suddenly realizes that being his Dao companion is not as good as being a mount for an immortal, and so, at the last moment, she changes her mind.
It was equivalent to completely negating everything about Xuanqing.
"He said he would punish me slightly, and I would take a palm strike from him, and that would be the end of it." Xuanqing finally spoke, mentioning the immortal guarding Hongze.
"Before he raised his palm, I was ninety percent sure I could take it."
"In the instant his palm came down, that certainty vanished."
"I struggled to calm my mind and put on a brave face, determined to die with dignity. I may have never lost before, but I am not a petty man who can't accept defeat."
Xuanqing's voice turned hoarse.
He swallowed hard, trying to hide the turmoil within: "My master still came and took that palm strike for me, but it changed, targeting my heart instead. And so, my master went insane and used the method of refining the treasure ground."
"It was only when I returned to the Nanyang Sect, my soul shattered, that I realized I truly couldn't afford to lose... I couldn't afford to lose at all."
That slight punishment lasted a full ten thousand years.
Even though it wasn't intentional, he still bid farewell to the sect beforehand and reminded his master, willing to accept the consequences.
But there were always those who couldn't bear to see him lose, wanting to help him stabilize his Dao heart.
However, these master and disciple never expected that the price they would have to pay for losing would be so high, and it wasn't something they could decide.
They thought, at most, they would lose a life.
But the immortal took away the entire Nanyang Sect. That palm strike, aimed at the heart, could even drive a giant at the Unity of Dao realm insane.
The Nanyang Sect Master was prepared to die in his disciple's place, but he never imagined that the immortal would force him to descend into madness first, making him refine the creatures he had protected in endless pain. With a scream that tore at his throat, he watched helplessly as the Nanyang Sect was destroyed before his very eyes, and only then was he allowed to die.
"..."
Shen Yi pondered for a long time, finally unraveling the mystery.
After all, the amiable elder in the Canging Pavilion didn't seem like someone who would sacrifice the lives of the creatures in the treasure ground for his personal desires.
So that was what happened.
"Alright, I understand."
Shen Yi nodded slightly, then walked past the two of them and out the door, stretching his arms lazily.
He made no promises and didn't even offer any words of comfort.
The Master of the Baohua Sect paused, a little puzzled by Shen Yi's reaction. She had expected him to scold Xuanqing for his stupidity and immaturity, causing a huge disaster because of a momentary anger, or to scorn the purple-bearded white dragon for going back on her word, clearly coming to seek help from Xuanqing, only to turn around and sell him out without a second thought.
Or even to be angry at the despicable methods of the immortal.
Any of those reactions would have been more acceptable than Shen Yi's current calm demeanor, as if he had simply listened to a story, and one couldn't even be sure if he had been paying attention.
The Master of the Baohua Sect withdrew her gaze, only to find that Xuanqing was still standing there, lost in thought.
She couldn't help but feel a bit exasperated. "Are you still standing there? Do you need him to scold you before you feel better?"
"..."
Xuanqing didn't respond, but took a deep breath.
If he remembered correctly, he had heard a similar response not long ago.
The result was that the water tribe lost hundreds of powerful demons, seven White Jade Capital Demon Generals fell, and even the messenger who had come to demand justice had gone missing.
Now that he knew... he would have to take action.
But what action could he take?
Xuanqing felt that what he had said earlier was clear enough. The casual palm strike of the immortal from Hongze was an insurmountable sky for mortals like them.
Youthful hot-bloodedness eventually gives way to maturity.
But the Nanyang Sect truly couldn't afford the price of another youth maturing.
"..."
The Master of the Baohua Sect slowly reached out, intending to comfort Xuanqing.
But halfway through the motion, her expression changed, and she lowered her eyes to the white flower at her waist. Her gaze gradually calmed.
In an instant, the aura around the Master of the Baohua Sect changed completely. Even though she tried to conceal it, her aura as a giant at the Unity of Dao realm made Shen Yi, who was standing by the door, look back in surprise.
"Xi Gong has arrived." She lifted her eyes.
Those few words snapped Xuanqing out of his reverie, and his expression turned grave.
As the Baohua Sect was located at the border between the two Hong regions, they were extremely sensitive to any movements.
For news to reach the Master of the Baohua Sect, it meant that it wasn't a simple patrol but a display of significant force.
The Ko family of the South Dragon Palace was still entangled with the Seven Sons.
And now, the stronger West Dragon Palace's Qi family was making a move.
It was hard not to connect the two.
"Ko Shilin?"
There weren't many who were qualified to associate with the West Dragon Palace. Aside from the South Dragon King, there was only Ko Shilin, the Ko Crown Prince.
Xuanqing turned slightly. "Who's leading the Qi family's troops?"
The Master of the Baohua Sect replied bluntly, "Quite a lot of them, but the one at the forefront is still the head of the Qi family. He and the Dragon Consort have been at odds lately. I heard that the Dragon Consort has sidelined him, and even the messages regarding the demon army have to go through her first. With her family backing her, he's been struggling to breathe, and yet he still has the energy to meddle in South Hong's affairs."
The Qi family was different from the Ko family, as there was another candidate for the position of crown prince. That was why he was referred to as the head of the Qi family instead of the crown prince.
Of course, this situation could change.
It depended on the attitude of the Dragon Consort's family.
"Tsk."
Hearing this, Xuanqing suddenly remembered something and turned to look at Shen Yi, his expression complicated. "Sect Master, hold your temper for now. There's no need to stir up trouble."
This statement was a bit odd.
But based on Xuanqing's understanding of Shen Yi over the past few days, if he didn't give him a heads-up, Shen Yi might very well offend the Qi family for no reason.
There were seven sects in South Hong, and the Nanyang Sect was currently the most downtrodden among them. The other six sect masters did nothing all day, leaving all the work to the youngest one, who was so busy that even getting a good night's sleep was a luxury. What a joke!
"Mhm."
Shen Yi didn't turn around, merely humming in acknowledgment, but his expression turned strange.
This situation sounded vaguely familiar.
Xuanqing's warning... seemed to have come a bit too late.
...
The reason the South Hong Seven Sons treated the Baohua Sect so well, considering them a semi-ally, was not only because of Xuanqing's connection but also because of their unique location.
Like now.
The stalemate in South Hong had remained unchanged for countless years, mainly due to the strength of the South Hong Seven Sons, who continued to suppress the South Dragon Palace even after the downfall of the Nanyang Sect.
However, due to certain past events, the South Hong Seven Sons could only keep a low profile, refraining from conflict and minimizing their presence.
With the strong retreating to the sidelines, the weak became rampant.
This bizarre situation rarely led to any conflicts, and such peace should have continued indefinitely.
Yet, the Ko family couldn't hold back and contacted the West Dragon Palace, seemingly intending to make a big move.
The South Hong Seven Sons had already allowed the Dragon Palace to occupy most of the cultivation resources, and now their opponent was pushing further. Since it wasn't for gain, their intention was clear.
They even intended to deprive the Seven Sons of their meager status.
It was unclear what madness had possessed the Crown Prince of the South Dragon Palace, Nan Gong Long. Perhaps he had grown too comfortable and craved excitement.
Nevertheless, it was always wise to be prepared.
"Thank you, Sect Master Shen and Senior Sister Ji."
Master Wushuang's expression was calm, but his tone carried a hint of awkwardness.
The seven sects were like branches of the same family, and the relationship between the sect leaders was usually that of master and disciple or uncle and nephew.
The sudden arrival of such a young junior made it difficult to know how to address him appropriately.
"It's fine for me, but it depends on Sect Master Shen."
The cold and elegant woman in white glanced at Shen Yi, her eyes sweeping over his ink-colored robe with a hint of emotion. His low-key demeanor was a stark contrast to the young man at the Seven Sons' assembly the other day.
"... "
Shen Yi remained silent, scanning the six people in front of him. Aside from the ancestral hall, the heavenly canopy, and other extravagant things, they didn't look much different from ordinary cultivators.
"It depends on me?"
What else was there to consider? From their faces, it was clear that they wanted him gone.
Today's discussion was actually quite simple.
Since the West Dragon Palace had crossed the line, the South Hong Seven Sons had to respond in some way.
Although human cultivators were not as closely related as the Dragon Palace, they still needed to present a united front when it came to major issues.
However, sending a message for help could be done by a disciple.
If they were truly concerned, they could send a genuine Unity of Dao realm giant to escort the messenger.
From any perspective, there was no reason for Shen Yi to go, considering his high position and low strength.
"... "
The sect leaders glanced at each other quietly.
Given Shen Yi's personality, he would likely stir up trouble. If the West Dragon Palace and the South Dragon Palace joined forces, it wouldn't be a minor issue. Before making thorough preparations, it would be better to send this young master away to calm down and rest.
It would also give him an opportunity to divert his attention.
"Then it's decided. Each of you will escort three juniors, which will also be a good training for them."
Master Lingyue stood up and bowed to the two of them. "Please be careful on your journey."
"It's fine."
Shen Yi returned the bow.
To be honest, these Unity of Dao realm giants were already giving him enough face.
If they couldn't handle a few disciples, then his presence probably wouldn't make much difference.
Senior Sister Ji's offer to escort the juniors was also a way to look after him.
"Then let's go."
Ji Jingxi stood up and walked towards the door.
Outside the main hall, six disciples were already waiting in two rows.
Just by looking at the three who had been assigned to him, Shen Yi could guess how perfunctory Master Wushuang's inquiry had been.
Su Hongxiu, White Witch, and Wei Yuanzhou.
Among them, the White Witch was even Ji Jingxi's disciple, making it obvious that they wanted to keep an eye on him.
"Are you dissatisfied with him, Sect Master?"
Su Hongxiu glanced at the White Witch. If Shen Yi was unhappy, it was unlikely to be because of her or Wei Yuanzhou.
"Next time, when you look for a reason, can you start by examining yourself first? Whether it's me or not, it doesn't seem to make a difference when it comes to contacting the West Hong forces." The White Witch replied with a mocking smile.
He glanced at his master again, his tone gaining confidence: "Oh, but there is a difference. At least I won't offend people."
Even before their departure, the atmosphere had become strange.
Shen Yi glanced at the two of them and suddenly felt the urge to switch places with Ji Jingxi.
"The White Witch talks too much, but he's easier for me to contact. If something happens, I can come faster, so please bear with him, Sect Master Shen." Ji Jingxi nodded apologetically.
She didn't understand why she had such a disciple.
"I've already instructed Yuanzhou about the specifics, so you can discuss it with him along the way. There shouldn't be any problems."
In fact, in situations like this, it was unnecessary for a sect master to personally get involved; otherwise, it would only cause the other forces to look down on the South Hong Seven Sons.
Given Wei Yuanzhou's personality, he would likely handle things well.
With the West Dragon Palace's demon army pressing into South Hong, the various forces in West Hong would temporarily feel relieved, but they would also face endless troubles in the future. Unless they were truly foolish, they wouldn't dare to make things difficult for these disciples.
"If there's nothing else, let's depart."
Ji Jingxi took out a gorgeous treasure boat and stepped onto it with the other three disciples.
"Wait, there's one more thing." Shen Yi suddenly stopped her.
Ji Jingxi looked at him questioningly.
"Lend me a boat." Shen Yi looked directly at her, not hiding his intentions. The spirit puppet green lion of the Nanyang Sect couldn't compare to the proper magical treasures of a legitimate immortal sect.
Since he was going on a long journey, he might as well make things easier for himself.
"..."
Ji Jingxi hesitated for a moment, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips.
It seemed that after some rest, this Sect Master Shen had become even more interesting.
She extended her hand slightly. "Why don't we travel together?"
"It would be rude to refuse."
Shen Yi didn't hesitate and directly led the speechless Su Hongxiu and the others onto the boat.
Seeing this, Ji Jingxi shook her head slightly.
To be honest, Unity of Dao realm cultivators weren't as unapproachable as others imagined, and the six sect leaders were indeed feeling a headache when it came to how to treat Shen Yi.
Now it seemed that he wasn't as difficult to get along with as they had imagined.
The gorgeous Clear Moon treasure boat slowly rose into the air and transformed into a stream of light. When it reappeared, it had left the immortal sect's treasure land and entered the endless sea of clouds, heading west!
(End of Chapter)
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