Chapter 645: How Dare You Show Up? (7K plus 3K, still owing 13K)

Chapter 645: How Dare You Show Up? (7K plus 3K, still owing 13K)



"What's wrong?"

Min Zhiyan was taken aback. This was the first time he had seen such obvious emotional fluctuations on the face of this Shen official.

For a moment, he was unsure.

"Nothing."

Shen Yi remained silent for a long time, quickly adjusting his breathing, shaking his head, and turning to leave the Earth God Temple.

If the grudge of patricide could be endured, then the fact that his father's residual soul was still suppressed within a treasure, enduring eternal torment, when Zi Yang personally witnessed the person carrying that treasure, could he truly maintain his sanity?

It should be known that Zi Yang did not go alone; many old friends from Hongze were by his side.

Moreover, if Zileng saw these living beings from Hongze, she would naturally realize that Shi Ren had encountered trouble, and going to Hongze to investigate would become a natural course of action.

Shen Yi had long anticipated that the time left for him was limited, but when this day truly arrived, he still felt a bit restless.

If the matter of killing the Celestial Official were exposed, it would be akin to treason, and it was not something that could be countered by the strength of a single person.

At this moment, both the Wanderer's path and the Immortal's path had reached the seventh stage of perfection. No matter where she was, her strength was commendable.

However, in the face of this situation, it seemed completely inadequate.

"..."

Meng Xiuwen sensed the strangeness to expose herself, to be seen by others? Was it a way to others?

Meng Xiuwen's gaze lingered on the tightly closed door, and she was a powerful tool, a test of her own desires, and her place in this new world.

"What happened?"

Ye Lan swept her eyes over the tightly closed door, then looked at the young man standing with his hands hanging down, and she guessed what was going on: "Just say it."

As a Demon-Slaying Bureau's General with a Seal, helping her subordinates was her responsibility.

Of course, the prerequisite was not to go too far.

Ye Lan observed Shen Yi's calm demeanor, remembering that the last time he caused such a big trouble, he still had an attitude that didn't require others' help, which also saved her a lot of trouble.

She rubbed her temples and sighed inwardly... Well, it could be a bit too much.

"Shen Yi wants to ask the General for a favor."

Shen Yi slowly cupped his hands, as he rarely asked others for help, making him feel a bit awkward: "If possible, I hope the General can protect my few old friends and ensure their safety."

"Hmm?"

Ye Lan had already prepared herself to hear about a big problem, but when the words dissipated, she was somewhat taken aback and raised her head.

Is that all?

Such a small matter, was it worth his solemnity?

This time at Crane Mountain, it wasn't just them, the Seal Generals, who had come. It could be said that the court attached great importance to it, sending many big figures from the Imperial Capital.

In this situation, under the name of the Demon-Slaying Bureau, if even they felt troubled, then perhaps only Ye Lan could help.

"Let's go."

...

Great Southern Continent, a certain county.

It was noon, and the entire city was already crowded, with people everywhere. It was difficult to find a quiet place.

This place was not an exception; with a mountain wrapped in white clouds at the end of the line of sight as the center, all the surrounding towns were almost the same.

The place was a mix of mortals and immortals, bustling and lively, truly a scene of prosperity.

That mountain was originally nameless, known only by its shape, earning it the name Crane Mountain. But from now on, it would have another name.

The place where the Seven Treasure Bodhisattva preached.

"Huff."

Zi Yang patted his chest, calming the excitement in his heart.

The reason for his excitement was not so much about Crane Mountain, as the Bodhisattva's status was too noble, far removed from a wild demon like himself. The sutra they preached was probably like heavenly scriptures to ordinary people.

What really concerned Zi Yang were the strong cultivators with extraordinary auras, clearly from prestigious backgrounds, standing out in this small county.

These people might have direct connections to the Immortal Court, and perhaps one of them would be willing to help.

He had a private wish that these people, after obtaining their opportunities, would remember him, remember the tragic death of the old dragon in South Hong, and lend a hand when needed.

As for Xuan Qing, his former brother-in-law, he only felt deep guilt and sincerely hoped for his well-being.

"Okay."

Xuan Qing nodded slightly, and as he saw more, the faint timidity in his eyes gradually faded.

Since leaving Hongze and arriving in this new world, which he should have entered ten thousand years ago, the former pride of South Hong was slowly regaining his former confidence.

The world is vast, and the mystical powers within it are profound and mysterious. My path has not yet ended; one could even say it has just begun, and everything can be started anew.

This time, Zi Yang didn't bring many people with him.

Most of them were people that the Earth God couldn't find suitable paths for in a short time.

Xuan Qing had lost his Dao Body, Ye Jiu and Ji Jingxi had reached the Heaven Realm, and it would be a waste of their talent to become ordinary elders in other sects. They wanted to join a true Immortal lineage, but they needed to wait for the right opportunity, which couldn't be achieved in a short time.

This trip to Crane Mountain was also a chance to test their luck.

As for Zixian, she had already become a Cloud Walker. The two siblings worked together, bringing harmony to Jianyang Prefecture, filling in the gaps that the Immortal Court couldn't attend to.

The five of them didn't notice that in the crowd, two figures were silently watching them.

"Are these the old friends that Shen wants to protect?"

Meng Xiuwen crossed his arms, not feeling troubled. These demon slayers were meant to blend into the crowd, and with the cooperation of the court officials maintaining order, they were just keeping an eye on a few more people.

He was just a little surprised.

In such a remote place, so many talented individuals had emerged, and even he found them quite impressive.

In Shenzhou, cultivation wasn't as important as one might think.

The Immortal Court could use a single seal to grant mortals immortality, and while other sects and teachings couldn't achieve the same level, with the right talent and understanding, and the favor of their sects, it was normal for them to make rapid progress in their cultivation.

"It's about to begin."

Ye Jing slowly placed her palm on the sword hilt.

Indeed, the next moment, the entire city, and even the heavens and earth, seemed to come to a standstill.

With their powerful cultivation, these cultivators could easily see through the clouds and mist, revealing the true form of Crane Mountain's peak.

Even those who hadn't come for the Bodhisattva, like Hongze and his group, couldn't help but feel curious, and they all looked towards the distance.

On the flat summit, a golden lotus platform had been set up by the Bodhimanda Sect's disciples. Below the platform were many meditation cushions, with forty-nine in front and slightly more at the back, but not exceeding five hundred, occupying all the space around the platform.

These seemingly ordinary meditation cushions were far more valuable than any so-called heavenly treasures.

To occupy one of these seats required not only a fortune beyond measure but also sufficient background and strength to support it.

To put it bluntly, even the last seat was reserved for those from sects with heavenly lineages.

Among Hongze's group, even the most arrogant Ye Jiu didn't think he could have the chance to sit below that lotus platform.

But for them, this was still an opportunity to broaden their horizons.

When seeking opportunities, one must first understand which sects are worth pursuing.

The clouds gently stirred.

On the lotus platform, a figure with an androgynous appearance had appeared. Dressed simply in a plain gray robe, they sat cross-legged, only differing from the ascetic monks in that their right shoulder was covered.

As they pressed their palms together and slightly raised their eyes, seven golden lights suddenly appeared behind them, like seven great suns, instantly turning the sky a pale yellow.

Buddha's light shone upon all!

In an instant, without the Seven Treasure Bodhisattva uttering a word, the sound of a deep, resonant chant filled the air. The words were incomprehensible, but they mysteriously calmed everyone's excitement, making them feel serene.

"This cultivation is so profound that it's beyond human understanding," Ye Jiu's expression was complex. He had been the sharp blade of South Hong for many years, but this Bodhisattva had extinguished his brilliance with a single syllable.

"Nonsense... Do you know what it means to be comparable to a Third Rank Celestial Official?"

Zi Yang stared intently at Crane Mountain. If they hadn't happened upon the Bodhisattva's sermon, these scattered cultivators and demons would never have had the chance to glimpse the true form of a Third Rank Celestial Official in their lifetime.

They were beings that governed the laws of heaven and earth.

Their every word and action influenced not just the lives of all beings but also the very workings of the heavens and earth.

Even if they weren't officials of the Immortal Court, they would be revered as ancestral masters within the Three Teachings.

As the Buddhist chant resonated, finally, figures began to rise into the air at the foot of Crane Mountain.

Even the leaders of various sects didn't dare to summon their Immortal Rides or artifacts. They only dared to fly to the mountain's waist before landing and climbing the rest of the way on foot, quietly taking their seats on their designated meditation cushions, not daring to overstep.

This was a show of respect for the Bodhimanda Sect's venerable.

However, each of these humble figures, upon revealing themselves, elicited exclamations of awe from the equally high-level cultivators in the town.

"Quick! Write it all down."

Zi Yang didn't dare waste a moment, reminding the others to record the sects and lineages of these senior cultivators, the skills they were renowned for, and even their minor quirks.

This was what opportunity looked like!

"Tsk."

In the distance, Meng Xiuwen nodded in appreciation.

If he had had this level of insight when he was younger, he might not have ended up in the Demon Slaying Bureau.

With talent, perseverance, and a thick skin, one could achieve anything.

Now, he was even more curious about the small town where Shen originated, wondering what kind of blessed land it was to produce such remarkable individuals.

Finally, as the sky shimmered with divine light, fewer figures rose from the crowd, while more figures emerged from the heavenly mist, revealing their forms as they approached Crane Mountain.

"Celestial Officials, pay your respects!"

The town was buzzing with excitement. Today, they would not only witness the revered Bodhisattva but also catch a glimpse of the true Immortal Venerables.

The crowd's cheers grew louder as they called out the names of these revered figures.

(Chapter End)

Zi Yang and the others, instead of recording, relaxed and watched the lively scene.

Among these Celestial Officials, there were even Sixth Rank existences, who were truly serious Immortals, already far beyond their reach, completely without any possibility of contact.

Moreover, these people, actually sat in the forty-ninth Meditation Cushion, even occupying the last seat.

Thinking of this, several people's expressions couldn't help but reveal a thick layer of intense anticipation. What kind of person, would have the qualifications to sit below the Bodhisattva's Lotus Platform?

Finally, a dazzling golden light fell upon the world.

Two figures sat side by side on the first row of Meditation Cushions, in front was a stunning young girl, and behind was a golden-haired, robust man.

Seeing the two, the town actually quieted down.

The most bizarre thing was that everyone knew their high status, yet no one could recognize them.

Also at this moment.

Zi Yang and Zixian's faces, filled with anticipation and smiles, instantly froze, even their facial features began to twitch slightly, the two stared wide-eyed, panting with heavy breaths, their eyes full of panic.

Especially when they saw the young girl's waist slightly swaying, revealing a beautiful small gourd.

Zi Yang's neck tensed, her veins bulging, her face trembling, her eyes filled with bloodshot veins, a strand of white beard sprouted from her chin, fine scales spread from her ear to her face.

Behind the siblings, a sour-looking wooden man silently stared at that graceful figure.

She was the woman he had hated for ten thousand years, wishing to devour her flesh and bones.

For ten thousand years, he could only stand at the foot of the mountain, while she, had already reached the Bodhisattva's presence, still maintaining her composure.

Speaking of which...

Zi Yang bit her lip, adding a hint of coldness to her sweet smile.

She had shown kindness, but you should have died.

How could they be let out, or is it that, you have already died? Never mind, under the Bodhisattva's gaze, I dare not create trouble.

Let this group leave on their own, to avoid staining the Bodhisattva's eyes when their heads fall.

He should return to check if that stinky pond has become even more foul-smelling.

Just a short distance away from Zileng.

Shen Yi sat cross-legged, calmly gazing at the figure on the lotus platform ahead.

Neither the seating arrangement nor anything else seemed to affect the expression of this revered Bodhisattva.

He simply waited quietly for everyone to gather, then began his sermon.

Whether the people below listened or not, or what filth they harbored in their hearts, had nothing to do with him.

“……”

Shen Yi closed his eyes. Long ago, when he first met this woman by borrowing the golden body, he had already deeply understood that this bearded white dragon had reached her current position through keen observation and a meticulous, frightening mind.

She had definitely already sensed the presence of Zi Yang and the others.

At the same time.

Shen Yi also perceived the strength of the white dragon… a being on the same level as Meng Xiuwen.

A hundred thousand years in the immortal court had truly nurtured this woman to a level that mortal cultivators could hardly match.

Zi Yang, who was once at the same level or even higher, still languished in the Heaven Realm, while she had already easily entered the Celestial Immortal Realm.

Even more terrifying was the golden-haired giant beside her.

This individual gave Shen Yi a peculiar sense. He wasn’t as powerful as Ye Lan, so he wasn’t Fifth Stage, but he was completely different from Sixth Stage cultivators like Meng Xiuwen.

To keep him in the mortal world… with his current strength alone, it was far from enough.

Thinking of this, Shen Yi opened his eyes again and began to observe his surroundings.

The bodhisattva's sermon seemed to have only him present, but in reality, there were Bodhimanda Sect followers everywhere around.

All he needed to do was meet one person, the one who could complete the Sixth Stage path.

“You promised to stay obediently by my side.”

Ye Lan slightly turned her gaze, transmitting her voice into his ear.

She protected Shen Yi's old friends, but in exchange, this young man must restrain himself on this trip.

After all, the matters concerning the other party were trivial.

Today's sermon itself was the true big deal that would enrage even the imperial court.

“……”

Shen Yi remained silent, looking back at the lotus platform ahead.

The bodhisattva finally opened his golden mouth, and instantly, the deep and resonant Buddhist chants echoed through the world. Not only could the cultivators on the meditation cushions hear, but even the ordinary mortals at the foot of the mountain could hear every word clearly.

In that instant, Ye Lan's expression changed slightly.

How could there be such a way of teaching that didn’t distinguish between good and evil, loyalty and treachery, or immortals and mortals?

At the same time, Shen Yi was also slightly stunned.

The reason for his shock was simple: the bodhisattva's teachings, he actually understood them.

It was… the Three-Tribulation Lotus Platform Technique.

…

At the foot of the mountain, the hastily fleeing few all paused slightly.

Led by Ji Jingxi, they all saw what happened atop the mountain. The woman, who stood above all, was actually forced to step back and choose a lower meditation cushion.

This wasn’t a big deal, after all, there were always higher mountains and higher heavens.

Zileng didn’t need to be stronger than all other beings in the world; she just needed to be stronger than the people of Hongze.

What truly stunned them was that the meditation cushion was given to a Hongze person.

That was Shen Zongzhu!

When they saw Shen Yi quietly sit down, even Xuan Qing was momentarily dazed.

This young man, who first appeared outside Nanyang, when he sat down, he once again gave the people of Hongze a backbone.

He was the master of Hongze, not a mount for some immortal or a lapdog for someone else.

“Move!”

Zi Yang growled, though the word was the same, the sentiment behind it was entirely different.

Even if he spent a lifetime as a Heaven Realm wild demon, he would never do something as despicable as stabbing his dao companion in the back, harming his father, or imprisoning his father's soul.

“It’s not… they wouldn’t have offended that person, right?”

Meng Xiuwen smacked his lips. He had been observing this group, and when Zileng revealed herself, their reactions virtually spoke volumes.

It wasn’t out of fear, after all, the imperial court was watching, so nothing serious would happen.

But it was rather surprising that a group of cultivators who hadn’t yet reached the True Immortal Realm could be related to the mount of a Fifth Stage Immortal General.

And if that were true, even Ye Lan would have a tough time dealing with it.

When traveling, one's identity was something they gave themselves.

The identity as a third-generation disciple under the Great Dharmaraja was real, but the problems that arose were also real; otherwise, why would Ye Lan join the Demon Slayer Bureau?

There was only one descendant left in their lineage.

Yes, just one descendant. Even his younger sister, Ye Jing, Ye Lan hadn’t let join this lineage.

“Protect them and get them out. Don’t let them get lost. Once they leave here, who knows what might happen.”

Meng Xiuwen quickly followed, and Ye-jing obediently followed behind.

At this moment, the entire Great Southern Continent had no place safer than around Crane Mountain.

However, just as the two took a step, the bodhisattva's Buddhist chants simultaneously echoed over.

Listening to the crystal-clear scriptures.

The two demon slayers simultaneously sensed something amiss. Even with Ye-jing's limited experience, she could tell something was off.

She stared blankly at Crane Mountain.

What the bodhisattva was teaching was undoubtedly a cultivation technique, and almost all Bodhimanda Sect cultivation techniques could be enhanced with imperial aura.

Such profound cultivation techniques were now being transmitted to everyone without any barriers.

It sounded like a good deed, benefiting all beings.

But Ye-jing felt an inexplicable chill. Even if the bodhisattva had encountered a bottleneck and needed a large amount of human imperial aura to transcend her heart tribulation, she couldn’t act so recklessly, could she?

If evil people obtained these cultivation techniques and had wicked thoughts, even if there were a hundred demon slayers in a prefecture, they might not be able to handle it.

Meng-xiuwen's face tightened, staring intently at the figure on the lotus platform, feeling his brain spin.

“Demon monk—”

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end