https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-676-I-ve-Got-Everything-Under-Control/13021369/
Chapter 677: Immortal Rankings, Volume 13, Unveiling the Unseen
Chapter 677: Immortal Rankings, Volume 13, Unveiling the Unseen
On a rural path, a middle-aged man with a somber aura walked ahead of a beautiful woman.
No one could have guessed that these two were the Southern Defense General, capable of facing off against Bodhisattvas and Great Dharmarajas.
"Although the situation hasn't escalated, the Bodhimanda Sect has indeed made its move," the woman, Feng Xi, said with a hint of gloom. Despite Yan Brother and the Thousand-Handed Bodhisattva's unspoken understanding in controlling their auras during the confrontation, the surrounding grand prefecture remained calm.
However, the clash between these two Third Rank powerhouses clearly demonstrated that neither side was willing to back down.
Feng Xi took a deep breath, "I have a premonition that the Great Southern Continent will soon be in complete chaos."
"No need for premonitions," Yang Mingli interrupted, casually pulling out a list and handing it to her. "These are the Immortal Sects within the Divine Dynasty's jurisdiction in the Southern Continent. According to the Demon Slayer Bureau, they want to gather and preserve these cultivation grounds that have been cultivated for countless millennia."
A cold smile appeared on his face, "They're probably just trying to hide and avoid trouble after hearing the rumors."
As he spoke, Yang Mingli turned and glanced at Feng Xi, "The court is still waiting for a response from the Immortal Court. In my opinion, they won't get one."
The Seven Treasures Bodhisattva's preaching was a clear signal that couldn't be ignored.
Feng Xi had initially hoped it was an isolated incident, but now it seemed that the Divine Dynasty was on the verge of being isolated by Heaven and Earth.
"No wonder you're so cautious. What do they want?"
Feng Xi took the list and skimmed through it, finding it startling.
These Immortal Sects within the Divine Dynasty's jurisdiction had Sixth Rank Celestial Immortals as their leaders, and even a single Title General could suppress them.
But from the small, one could perceive the larger picture; these sects' lineages originated from the Three Immortal Sect's disciples, making them almost like distant relatives.
If one traced their roots, this list would implicate a significant portion of the Three Immortal Sect.
"What do they want..."
Yang Mingli repeated these words, his eyes darkening with each utterance, "Haven't you noticed? Since the Seven Treasures Bodhisattva's preaching, the court has controlled the spread of the Lotus Platform Technique, causing discontent below. Even if they obey on the surface, the common folk believe that we've severed their path, and the dissatisfaction with the court is growing, especially with the Southern Continent's magistrates sensing the instability and weakening of the Imperial Aura."
Feng Xi's expression turned somber, "Since you see it so clearly, why did you insist on releasing that ape demon back then..."
"Slaying it would be easy, but how can you prove it came from an Immortal Sect? To the common folk, it would seem like the court is weakening, unable to control demons. Once or twice is fine, but repeatedly, it will lead to chaos. By the time we can't handle it, the Immortal Sects will intervene, resolving the issue. Do you understand the principle of contrast in all things?"
At this point, Yang Mingli struggled to contain his emotions.
In terms of strength, the Human Emperor was no match for the Three Sects' leaders, but he could govern the mortal realm alongside the Immortal Court due to his control over the Imperial Aura. However, this aura wasn't born from nothing; it was a result of the court's efforts to bring peace and prosperity to the people, earning their trust.
"What benefit does this bring to the Three Sects?" Feng Xi wondered, glancing sideways.
The Imperial Aura was a precious cultivation resource for cultivators, and destroying it would mean the Bodhimanda Sect's cultivators returning to their physical tribulations, the Three Immortal Sect searching for Tribulation Force treasures, and the Righteous Deity Sect no longer needing incense to supplement their divine power.
Hearing this, Yang Mingli became cautious, scanning the surroundings before speaking, his face darkening, "The Human Emperor established the Immortal Department, recruiting us. Isn't it to replace the Celestial Court? If so, what's strange about the Immortal Court wanting a new Human Emperor?"
"Chaos breeds heroes."
"I've heard rumors that many renowned young cultivators from the Three Immortal Sect plan to descend from their mountains."
"For example, the Wan Yu Immortal Sect's Phoenix Immortal General, the Divine Void Immortal Sect's Thunderclap Daoist, and the Jade Pool Immortal Sect's Heavenly Winter Fairy..."
With each name, Yang Mingli's expression grew more murderous, "By stirring chaos and having these geniuses enter the mortal realm to save the suffering, they'll seize the Imperial Aura for themselves. If fortune favors them, they might even attempt to ascend to that position.
"This will lead to a change in the Divine Dynasty's leadership!"
As he spoke, the middle-aged man's somber aura intensified, his head of white hair becoming more noticeable.
He sighed, "And in the Divine Dynasty, even the Demon Slayer Bureau, where powerful cultivators gather, most have their secrets. Forcing them into the spotlight would mean facing these geniuses, but before that, they might be captured and executed at the Monster Slaying Platform."
"As for those with clean backgrounds, they must have exceptional talent and strength. You can search for them yourself. I doubt the Great Southern Continent has such individuals."
"Yan Lan is decent, but too young and low in cultivation." Feng Xi sighed, shaking her head. As for other young cultivators like the newly titled Nan Yang, they weren't even worth mentioning.
Cultivators of the Fourth Rank and above were like towering mountains to others.
But when mountains gathered, there were still differences in height.
"So be it. This chaotic trend is unstoppable, and we can't find anyone to rival the Three Sects. There's no perfect solution in this world. If we can't win, we'll at least bring them down with us."
"Yang Mingli finally exhaled, "I'll send that ape demon back, so that the people can see where this calamity truly originated from. We must be cautious and not let those Three Teachings cultivators take advantage of the situation, we must leave room for the Imperial Court to maneuver."
"The people don't trust the Imperial Court, and at most, they might weaken the Imperial Aura. But we can't let those Three Teachings cultivators consume the Imperial Aura; we must leave enough room for the court to turn the situation around."
"Many people will die," Feng Xi closed her eyes.
The Three Teachings' methods this time were extremely well-planned and executed flawlessly.
First, they released the True Scripture, causing the people's thoughts to become chaotic, and then they unleashed demons, making everyone fearful.
At this moment, everyone felt endangered. Whenever someone perished due to the demon plague, they naturally blamed the Imperial Court, wondering why they didn't allow the people to cultivate the True Scripture for self-defense.
"Do you remember why the Immortal Department was established?"
Yang Mingli scoffed, "That drought, which occurred due to offending the Celestial Official, left the land barren, and all living beings perished. It was after that incident that our existence gained significance."
If the Divine Dynasty were to change rulers, without the Human Emperor's restraint, such situations would become the norm.
The Human Emperor exchanged a peaceful era for the people, but those high and mighty immortals preferred to use their thunderous might to force the mortal realm into submission, which was more convenient and easier.
They didn't descend into the mortal realm but wanted to govern mortals; how absurd.
"I'm more capable than Yan of recognizing myself. In front of the Three Teachings, you and I are but ants. We can't save this world, we can only try to buy some time."
"Even if I can't help, I should at least not cause more trouble."
"I know you want to help him take care of the Nine Prefectures, but I must remind you, with his stubborn nature, he won't truly suffer a loss, and his determination won't change. At this moment, we three must stand united, without any other thoughts. Otherwise, after he recovers from his injuries, he will continue to act this way."
Yang Mingli left these words and directly flew away on his cloud, "You figure it out yourself."
"..."
The beautiful woman stood in her original spot and took out three letters she had prepared in advance. These were originally intended for Wu Shan Yan Lan and Nan Yang.
She stared at the letters for a long time before putting them away again.
...
Jianyang Prefecture.
"I'll be heading back too. Regarding the Void Reality Dao Art, if you have any doubts, just send me a message."
Yelan walked out of the courtyard and nodded at Shen Yi.
For some reason, although this young man looked no different from usual, she inexplicably sensed a suppressed killing intent and restlessness in his eyes.
For a cultivator of the Void Reality Dao Art, this was a dangerous situation.
Wu Shan slowly walked out of the courtyard, appearing absent-minded. He had warned them of the consequences, and now it had come to pass. Fortunately, this time, they were lucky as Elder Yan was in Linhe Prefecture.
But what about the next time?
Could Elder Yan still be there? Even if he was, his frail body might not withstand the injuries again.
What was the point of this family division? Was it to deliberately torment this stubborn Southern Governor General to death?
"Be careful on your way."
Shen Yi bid farewell with a bow.
As he turned to leave, he sensed a disturbance in the air nearby.
Under their watchful eyes, a stooped, diminutive figure emerged from the ground, holding a cane in each hand, his withered face carrying a hint of worry.
It was the Earth God of Jianyang Prefecture, Min Zhiyan, who had also led Shen Yi into the Demon Slaying Bureau.
But this time, the atmosphere was inexplicably awkward.
"I'll take my leave first."
Wu Shan glanced at the old man indifferently and walked forward without looking back.
The Imperial Court and the Earth God had once been close allies, but after the incident with the ape demon causing trouble in the Jade Yang Immortal Sect and the Earth God's silence about the Three Cities, their relationship had completely broken down.
Even Yelan only politely nodded at Min Zhiyan.
"..."
Min Zhiyan rubbed his old face, wanting to say something but stopping himself, he finally spoke in a soft voice, "This old man pays his respects to the esteemed adults."
Some things couldn't be explained.
Even though he had known about the situation, he had rushed to Jianyang City upon hearing the news. By the time he arrived, the ape demon had already been captured.
But in the eyes of the Divine Dynasty, the Earth God was a Celestial Official, and they were accomplices.
However, this was the truth, and Min Zhiyan was also clear in his heart. If the Immortal Court truly issued an edict, he wouldn't dare to defy it.
"Do you have something to seek me?"
Shen Yi extended his hand in greeting, without much small talk. For the Earth God to visit at this time, he must have encountered an urgent matter.
"I..."
Min Zhiyan lowered his hand, never expecting that the only person who treated him the same as before was Shen Yi, whom he had repeatedly warned to keep an eye on.
...
Of course, what he didn't expect even more was that in such a short time, this cultivator from the remote countryside had already become an existence on par with Yan Lan Wu Shan and the others.
"I won't be going in."
He waved his hand and smiled wryly, "I came to inform you of an important matter, and then I'll be on my way."
Min Zhiyan raised his cane and pointed in the direction of the three cities surrounding Jianyang Prefecture, "Do you know about the matter of most people leaving the nearby immortal sects? Among these sects, sixteen of them had their sect's treasures originally set up by the Righteous Gods to suppress demons, and they were borrowed by the disciples of the Three Immortal Sects."
"When they left, they also took away the sect's protective treasures, and that Demon-Suppressing Tower is about to collapse..."
"I hope you will make preparations early, and don't let the demons within escape. Although these demons may not be as powerful as you, they have the advantage of numbers. If they escape into the mortal realm, I fear that the nearby cities will be in trouble!"
"..."
Wu Shan's retreating steps momentarily halted, and he glanced back at the group, a hint of hesitation flashing in his eyes.
Apparently, after the Bodhimanda Sect, the Three Immortal Sect was also eager to make a move, once again employing underhanded tactics.
Moreover, this news was delivered by the Celestial Official, whom he had already lost trust in.
At this thought, Wu Shan slowly retracted his gaze, as if unaffected, and summoned the Auspicious Cloud, soaring directly into the sky.
Fortunately, they had already divided the areas beforehand, so there was no need for further arguments.
"This..."
Min Zhiyan was slightly dazed as he watched Wu Shan disappear into the canopy of heaven, then turned back to look at the two with confusion.
"Hmm."
Yelan rubbed her temples with a slight headache and turned to Shen Yi, "Don't worry about him. You stay in Juyang, I don't have anything urgent on my end either. Help me keep an eye on Xi Shan and Linhe Prefectures for now, as for Old General Yan... let him take a break for the time being."
Any normal person would know that the other two Southern Defense Generals were keeping a close eye on these nine prefectures, just waiting for General Yan to make a mistake.
Given Old General Yan's temper, even if it meant damaging his foundation, he would definitely take matters into his own hands in such a situation.
"Don't worry, nothing will go wrong."
She didn't give Shen Yi a chance to refuse, and even worried that he might be unfamiliar with handling such matters. She directly took out a communication talisman and helped notify the three prefectures' Demon Slayer Bureaus and yamen to prepare for the impending demon plague.
Yelan put down the talisman and decisively transformed into a sword light, entering the void and heading straight for the midpoint between the two large prefectures.
Her handling of the situation was flawless.
The duty of a Title General was to protect the prefectures under their jurisdiction. As long as the prefectures were safe, the rest could be gradually resolved.
"With two of you here, the old man can rest assured."
Min Zhiyan heaved a sigh of relief and prepared to take his leave.
Just then, he noticed a change in Shen Yi's expression.
The young man's fair and handsome face, which had been suppressing a murderous intent, now gradually revealed it.
When Shen Yi was in Nan Hong, he had discussed with Senior Xuan Qing about the meaning of his cultivation—it was to refuse to be suppressed by others.
But the lotus platform that had just passed by in the sky and the brief eye contact with the black dog had reminded him of his former greed and desire for a demonic lifespan.
"Hiss."
Min Zhiyan felt the sudden surge of violent aura around him and inexplicably recalled his initial evaluation of Shen Yi.
Born to kill! He hadn't been wrong; without countless millions of souls in his hands, how could such a sinister aura be gathered?
"General Shen..." Min Zhiyan could only call out softly.
"It's fine, let's go take a look."
Shen Yi reassured him briefly, and the next moment, he stepped into the void and disappeared from his original spot.
...
In the canopy of heaven, Wu Shan stood atop the Auspicious Cloud, scanning the area below with a slightly vacant gaze.
Both the Bodhimanda Sect and the Three Immortal Sect had begun to reveal their fangs towards the Great Southern Continent, and the Demon Slayer Bureau seemed no longer a suitable place for cultivation.
Almost every demon slayer had their own story; otherwise, who would join such a place?
Wu Shan was no exception.
He didn't come from a proper immortal sect; his family had merely maintained a long-standing connection with the Three Immortal Sect.
His sect had offended a demon immortal and temporarily fled with many disciples to seek protection from their master.
The demon immortal pursued them relentlessly, venting his anger on the various smaller forces below. Even among those forces that were destroyed, Wu Shan's sect was insignificant.
Barely escaping, Wu Shan, after a series of fortuitous encounters, finally joined the Demon Slayer Bureau.
He was cautious and careful, and after this journey, he finally approached the realm of the demon immortal, transforming from a mere observer to someone who could now stand before it and look up in awe.
Having been abandoned once, it's difficult to trust others' promises. Therefore, he never intended to follow Old General Yan blindly or break ties with the Three Sects.
His greatest fear now was being labeled as a member of Yan's faction in the eyes of the Three Sects.
If he took action this time, not only the Three Sects but even Generals Feng Xi and Yang Mingli might consider him a die-hard follower of Yan.
Hence, Wu Shan deliberately tried to distance himself from the situation.
As the sole survivor, he couldn't afford to let his vengeance go unfulfilled.
He had pondered countless times through the nights, imagining how he would feel when standing before the demon immortal, even rehearsing the words he would say.
If he missed this chance to speak those words, he would die with regret.
Moreover, setting himself aside, if this incident caused some trouble and made General Yan realize his mistake, leading to the division of the family, it might not be a bad thing for the Great Southern Continent.
"..."
With the support of his fourth-rank cultivation, the bustling Linhe Prefecture came into view, and the laughter and chatter from the streets and alleys filled his ears.
The Auspicious Cloud beneath Wu Shan's feet slowed down.
After an unknown amount of time, he suddenly rolled his eyes, "Damn it, I knew I couldn't escape this."
Only those who have been abandoned can truly understand the taste of despair and aimlessness.
"Just this once, I won't back down."
He bit his lip and turned back, soaring into the Linhe Prefecture yamen.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter end
Report
