Chapter 518: The Demon-Subduing Expert from Western Hong

Chapter 518: The Demon-Subduing Expert from Western Hong

Boom!

Yan Chongzhang had just leaped onto a peak when his expression changed slightly, and he forcibly stopped his movement.

In the distance ahead, a thin old man in linen robes stood there with his hands behind his back, gazing intently at the direction of Nameless Mountain.

"Master," Yan Chongzhang hurriedly cupped his fists in greeting, then suddenly felt foolish.

As a Unification Realm cultivator within the Mountain Movers Sect, his presence was akin to that of heaven and earth, so how could he not sense what had happened at Nameless Mountain?

"You saw it too."

Yan Chongzhang's face was filled with suppressed excitement, and even his voice sounded dry and hoarse.

This was a major opportunity for the entire Mountain Movers Sect.

This mountain, which had been relocated here after the sect's founding, finally had a glimmer of hope for being completely unlocked.

It was highly likely to be a complete Immortal Art!

However, to Yan Chongzhang's surprise, his master's face didn't show much abnormality, and his eyes revealed neither joy nor anger.

He couldn't help but stammer, "You don't want to offend the Southern Flood Seven Sons?"

Hearing this, the Mountain Movers Sect Master glanced at Yan Chongzhang out of the corner of his eye and didn't offer much explanation, "Stop acting so impatient. Everything remains the same; treat him as you would normally."

After all, it was just recruiting a disciple, not killing their Daoist disciples.

With the Mountain Movers Sect's strength, there was no need to fear the Southern Flood Seven Sons, who were secluded in a corner.

But the youth's identity was indeed somewhat mysterious.

It was best to investigate the matter thoroughly before making any decisions.

Such a Celestial Prodigy with a long lifespan, the Southern Flood Seven Sons wouldn't truly put him in danger, and there was no need to rush at this moment.

The only question was how much it would cost to make him join another sect.

The Mountain Movers Sect Master's expression remained calm.

He wondered if promising a future Unification Realm sacred land would be enough.

If it truly could unlock the secrets of Nameless Mountain, he wouldn't be stingy, but from the youth's previous reaction, it seemed that the process of comprehending the Divine Peak Technique wasn't going smoothly...

To put it bluntly, most of Shen Yi's reactions were more like those of an extremely dull cultivator, who could be rejected by Nameless Mountain at any moment.

But the profoundness lay in his ability to digest these adverse reactions at an incredibly terrifying speed and resist Nameless Mountain's repelling force. The combination of these two factors led to this astonishing result.

However, after the youth left Nameless Mountain, beneath his seemingly calm appearance, there was a hidden danger that even made the Mountain Movers Sect Master feel a slight palpitation.

The fatigue in Shen Yi's eyes was as if he had carried mountains for tens of thousands of years and walked through boundless lands, almost to the point of mental collapse.

This was not a reaction one would have after sitting idly for a short three days.

If one were to make a comparison, it was more like using some sinister method to overdraw one's body, squeezing one's lifespan for a momentary boost. However, this black-robed youth was overdrawing his spirit soul, and the cost was unknown.

Nevertheless, it was hard to believe that he could replicate this feat again.

"Huff."

As the leader of a sect, the old man had far too many things to consider and couldn't afford to be impulsive.

However... no matter what, it was always a good idea to establish a friendly relationship with this young cultivator in advance.

It was just one Divine Peak Technique, and if the youth had the ability to obtain it, regardless of the means, it should be given to the Southern Flood Seven Sons.

Making things difficult after the fact would only devalue the gesture.

"Disciple understands."

Yan Chongzhang bowed, watching his master's figure slowly walk away.

Only after his master left did he straighten his body and rub his nose bridge.

Treat him normally?

With his current state of mind, how could he calmly face Shen Yi?

Just seeing the youth's fair face made him feel like all the hardships he had endured for countless years were in vain... and he was quite foolish.

...

At the foot of Nameless Mountain.

Yang Yunheng watched Yan Chongzhang return with a hint of disappointment and furrowed his brows, as if guessing something, but with several Southern Flood Daoists nearby, he could only ask indirectly, "Why did you come back so soon?"

"It's nothing."

Yan Chongzhang forced a smile and shook his head.

It was a rare opportunity to glimpse the second complete Mountain Technique, but he had to forcibly suppress his thoughts. Who wouldn't be impatient in his situation?

"Hmm."

Yang Yunheng couldn't help but sigh.

Wei Yuanzhou and the other two remained silent, pretending not to hear.

The Mountain Movers Sect's thoughts were written all over their faces, and as exceptional individuals, they could see it clearly.

But previously, no one paid attention to the Mountain Movers Sect's careful thoughts. Even Bai Wu had a playful look, as who could compare to the Southern Flood Seven Sons, offering a Unification Realm sacred land and the sect master's identity to keep Shen Yi.

But now, things were different.

After the Mountain Master showed such a surprised reaction, if the Mountain Movers Sect gritted their teeth... they might really be willing to give it up!

After all, the Mountain Movers Sect was larger than two Heavenly Sword Sects combined.

Being a sect master here was far better than being one in a declining Nanyang sacred land.

From Yan Chongzhang's attitude, he didn't seem to mind giving the main sect's sacred land to Shen Yi and becoming a Daoist disciple in a branch sacred land.

Therefore, even Su Hongxiu wouldn't mention it again at this moment.

If she went out and ended up giving away a sect master's position, how could she return to the Southern Flood with any face?

Both sides had different thoughts and fell silent.

Shen Yi, on the other hand, seemed like an outsider, holding a Soul Nourishing Treasure Pill and popping them into his mouth one after another.

"Gulp."

Yang Yunheng swallowed, his heart pounding, "Friend Shen, slow down... those are pills..."

"I know."

Shen Yi politely nodded. Even if he lacked experience, he had once refined the Heavenly Phoenix Pill and could be considered a Pill Master.

After saying this, he took another seven or eight pills.

Indeed, the outside world is much more prosperous than Nanyang. Within their own sect, it's rare to see such fine treasures.

After consuming three to five bottles of treasure pills, the once-listless spirit soul is gradually recovering.

Of course, a spirit soul is still a spirit soul. Under the immense pressure of Nameless Mountain, having endured thirty-seven million years of arduous cultivation, the only way to recover from such a tremendous mental torment is to slowly digest it through sheer willpower.

"..." Yang Yunheng could only look at Yan Chongzhang for help.

"There's no need to be polite, young friend. There's more if you need it." Yan Chongzhang remembered his master's instructions. His current emotional state was off, and he didn't know how to act normally, so he just tried to avoid causing offense.

"I..." Yang Yunheng was taken aback and stared at the Daoist priest with a sullen expression.

Is this what he meant?

These pills aren't his, Yang Yunheng, so why should he be stingy? The issue is that one shouldn't take pills so casually, as it could lead to problems.

Even a single drop of pill poison could taint such a fine jade as Shen Yi, and it's truly heartbreaking!

"Aren't you going to watch the mountain?" Yang Yunheng changed the subject.

"No, I won't." Yan Chongzhang sighed. After such a huge blow, he probably wouldn't come here to "relax" for a long time.

As he spoke, his gaze suddenly sharpened.

It was a good opportunity to vent his pent-up frustration.

Aptitude and comprehension are innate, and if one can't compete, they must accept their fate. But as a Daoist priest, his cultivation power, which surpasses the Ban Shan Sect, is the result of his own hard work.

As the saying goes, diligence makes up for clumsiness, and he has been practicing for many years.

For someone of Shen Yi's age to catch up, it won't be easy.

"Let's get down to business."

Yan Chongzhang rubbed his wrist and looked at the Senior Elder, "This time, I need you to come with me."

Upon hearing this, Yang Yunheng was taken aback, "Are you serious?"

Within the Ban Shan Sect, aside from the Sect Master who has reached the Unification Realm, the Daoist priest and the Senior Elder are the two strongest. There are rarely tasks that require both of them to work together, and most of the time, one of them leaves the sect while the other stays to guard it.

For the Daoist priest to make this decision, it's clear what he intends to do.

Near the Ban Shan Sect, there aren't many demon groups that receive such treatment.

"I really don't want to deal with those arrogant fellows anymore."

Yan Chongzhang lowered his arms and smiled at the Nanhong group, "After I settle this matter, if I'm not too badly injured, I'll immediately go to Nanhong... Although the Ban Shan Sect doesn't have the same level of protection as the Nanhong Seven Sons in Xihong, we have also contributed significantly in resisting the Dragon Palace."

Clearly, he had an idea of what the Nanhong Daoists were seeking.

He had been reluctant to do this earlier because he didn't want to have too much contact with the Nanhong Seven Sons. The Ban Shan Sect isn't a small force, and even if they went to Nanhong to fight the Dragon Palace, there was no need to act like an appendage of the Seven Sons, following their every command.

"Thank you, Yan Daoist priest."

Wei Yuanzhou nodded in gratitude, but the eagerness from before was gone.

He wasn't foolish; the change in the attitude of the Ban Shan Sect's Daoist priest was likely due to consideration for Shen Zong's face.

This isn't about coming to help Nanhong; it's obviously about coming to take someone from Nanhong.

As the saying goes, you owe someone a favor when you eat from their hand, and it's hard to refuse them.

Seeking aid is one thing, but to ask for Shen Zong in exchange is like arranging a marriage. This is not only a breach of etiquette but also a bad deal.

At this thought, Wei Yuanzhou suddenly noticed Shen Yi standing nearby.

He saw Yang Yunheng waiting by Shen Yi's side, offering treasure pills as if they were free. Shen Zong accepted them without hesitation and had already consumed six bottles...

Wei Yuanzhou suppressed the urge to send a message to the White Witch and Su Hongxiu. He exchanged a glance with Su Hongxiu, took a step forward, and said with a bow, "If the situation in Xihong is as Yan Daoist priest described, we have nowhere else to go. We don't know what you're planning, but can we lend a hand?"

What Shen Zong has consumed can be repaid in other ways, but taking him away is definitely not an option!

"Hmm?"

Shen Yi digested the pill's power, glancing over with curiosity.

Although his spirit was still listless, if it had to do with demons, he was willing to listen.

The black-haired giant lion that died earlier, worthless in his eyes, was still on his mind.

Thinking of this, Shen Yi extended his hand to Yang Yunheng.

He wasn't an ignorant fool; he knew there was no such thing as a free lunch.

But only those who have witnessed the true face of Nameless Mountain and been awed by its wonder could truly understand the Ban Shan Sect's urgency.

At least for now, there probably wasn't anyone in the sect who could unlock the secrets hidden within. Otherwise, the Daoist priest wouldn't have such an expression.

Shen Yi wasn't arrogant, but he believed that with enough demon lifespans, he had a chance.

If he could unlock the secrets and share the cultivation techniques within with the Ban Shan Sect, even more than a few bottles of pills, the Ban Shan Sect probably wouldn't refuse.

Moreover, they still had to practice the Divine Peak Technique later. If his spirit soul was depleted, it would definitely affect his performance. He had worked hard to earn these demon lifespans, and it wasn't easy.

He might as well consider it an advance on his payment.

"Hmm?"

Yan Chongzhang digested the pill's power and glanced over with curiosity.

Although his spirit was still listless, if it had to do with demons, he was willing to listen.

The black-haired giant lion that died earlier, worthless in his eyes, was still on his mind.

Thinking of this, Shen Yi extended his hand to Yang Yunheng.

He wasn't an ignorant fool; he knew there was no such thing as a free lunch.

But only those who have witnessed the true face of Nameless Mountain and been awed by its wonder could truly understand the Ban Shan Sect's urgency.

At least for now, there probably wasn't anyone in the sect who could unlock the secrets hidden within. Otherwise, the Daoist priest wouldn't have such an expression.

Shen Yi wasn't arrogant, but he believed that with enough demon lifespans, he had a chance.

If he could unlock the secrets and share the cultivation techniques within with the Ban Shan Sect, even more than a few bottles of pills, the Ban Shan Sect probably wouldn't refuse.

Moreover, they still had to practice the Divine Peak Technique later. If his spirit soul was depleted, it would definitely affect his performance. He had worked hard to earn these demon lifespans, and it wasn't easy.

He might as well consider it an advance on his payment.

"Well, well. Although I'm not very familiar with Nanhong, my eyes aren't blind. With your strength, even if you come to Xihong, you'll be renowned as top-tier Celestial Prodigies. With your help, this trip will be a sure success."

As he spoke, his gaze swept over Su Hongxiu and Wei Yuanzhou.

In his sparkling eyes, there was also a hint of eagerness.

At this level of Daoist cultivation, they were actually lacking in opponents.

The Unification Realm cultivators were too powerful, and when they engaged in combat, they faced no resistance. Other cultivators, on the other hand, had insufficient depth, even those who had opened three cities in the White Jade Capital. Whether it was Daoist soldiers, cultivation techniques, or their innate killing instincts, they were far inferior to the Unification Realm cultivators.

"Speak your mind."

Su Hongxiu stood with her eyes lowered, not refusing.

This matter didn't require consulting with Sect Master Shen... Based on her understanding of Shen Yi, she knew that he was probably already eager to act.

"The Boundless Dao Emperor Sect wants a demon genius, and their appetite is growing. From the beginning, they wanted demons at the False Void fourth or fifth layer, but now even demons at the False Void twelfth layer can't meet their standards."

Yan Chongzhang clenched his teeth.

It was known that the Boundless Dao Emperor Sect sought a demon genius, and such a genius would naturally possess unique traits among their clan, with extraordinary spiritual powers and bloodlines.

Such beings were not easy to find.

Moreover, this campaign to sweep through the demon hordes had been going on for some time. Those who could escape had fled, those who were caught were captured, and those who remained unmoved were not easy to deal with.

"After careful consideration, I think only the young master of the Earth Nether Python Clan can meet their requirements."

"..." Yang Yunheng couldn't help but frown at the mention of such a significant matter.

The Earth Nether Python Clan was renowned for their demon bodies, and few cultivators of the same realm could face them head-on. These beings, born and bred in the mountains, aligned with the Mountain Movers Sect's principles and had similar habits, which was why they were so close.

However, this clan had been expelled from the Dragon Palace's waters, and thus had a weaker foundation, lacking the protection of a powerful demon comparable to the Unification Realm.

Unfortunately, they had found a decent backer.

With the intimidation of this backer, they managed to live comfortably.

What worried Yang Yunheng was that with Yan Chongzhang's understanding of when to advance and retreat, he would definitely not seek the Sect Master's help. After all, in the Hongze region, every Unification Realm giant restrained each other; otherwise, they wouldn't have allowed these giant pythons to remain for so many years.

But if they relied solely on the White Jade Capital cultivators to eliminate the Earth Nether Python Clan, it would be a rather tricky matter.

Now, with the assistance of several Southern Flood monks, he felt much more at ease.

The only thing left to consider was...

"What about the ones behind them...?" Yang Yunheng asked softly.

"The Boundless Dao Emperor Sect, if they can't even intimidate demons, who will help them in the future? Besides, our Mountain Movers Sect isn't afraid of them." Yan Chongzhang raised his eyebrows, and when discussing this matter, he clearly regained his confidence.

"Fellow Daoists, the earlier we act, the better. If there's nothing else, Chongzhang is ready to depart now."

It was clear that he had no intention of dealing with those people anymore and was only doing this for the sake of the sect's future, fulfilling his responsibilities as a Daoist.

"How long will it take?"

Su Hongxiu didn't answer but instead walked towards Shen Yi.

However, what she didn't expect was that the answer given by Sect Master Shen was completely opposite to what she had anticipated.

This killing puppet actually refused?

"I won't be going with you."

Shen Yi paused in thought, shook his head at Yan Chongzhang, and continued to adjust his breath.

"Indeed, nurturing the spirit soul is the real priority. I'll just stay in the Mountain Movers Sect for a while." Bai Wu was also confused by Su Hongxiu's words; even if Shen Yi was truly powerful, it wasn't necessary for the Sect Master to accompany them everywhere.

Moreover, he had just experienced the strange secrets of the mountain, and his spirit soul wasn't invincible.

"..."

Su Hongxiu paused for a moment, suddenly catching the subtle detail in Shen Yi's words.

He didn't say he wouldn't go; he just said he didn't want to go with them.

With this in mind, Su Hongxiu slowly turned to look at Yan Chongzhang.

As expected.

The Mountain Movers Sect Daoist also seemed to understand the underlying meaning.

Yan Chongzhang stared at Shen Yi silently, and just when everyone thought he would get angry...

A complex smile slowly spread across his firm lips, and he sighed in relief, "Shen Yi, you're so straightforward, and I admire you for it!"

If Yan Chongzhang was previously shocked by Shen Yi's talent and comprehension, it was at this moment that he truly began to assess the person himself.

The meaning behind his words was clear.

Shen Yi also wanted to compete for this demon, and even wanted a share of the Boundless Dao Emperor Sect's plans.

For someone who had just consumed the Mountain Movers Sect's pill, these words were inappropriate.

However, compared to those who put on a front but had ulterior motives, leading to an unpleasant parting, being upfront about his intentions was already a testament to his character.

Moreover, Yan Chongzhang didn't think Shen Yi would fail to see through his earlier thoughts.

Shen Yi could easily use this matter as leverage to gain greater benefits; not just a single demon, but even more, was not impossible.

Yan Chongzhang clasped his hands again, "Then let's split into two groups, fellow Southern Flood Daoists. Let's each rely on our own abilities."

With the strength of the Mountain Movers Sect, they could compete fairly and wouldn't lose to these Southern Flood Daoists.

Although Wei Yuanzhou didn't know what Shen Yi was planning, since the Sect Master had spoken, there was no reason not to follow.

He immediately led Bai Wu towards the other side.

The only one who remained motionless was Su Hongxiu.

Her eyes showed a hint of strangeness.

As expected, the next moment, she saw Shen Yi frowning in confusion, probably realizing that the others had misunderstood something, so he had to explain again, "When I say 'you,' it includes them as well."

It wasn't just separating from the Mountain Movers Sect, but also the Southern Flood Daoists.

He simply wanted to act alone.

This abrupt statement left everyone in the room silent.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end