My Wife Is The Leader Of A Demonic Cult

Chapter 186: Chapter 186: Defeat the Second Qi Grandmaster with One Punch

A Houjin expert walked up to Yan Gang and then shakily extended his hand, placing a finger under his nose, whispering, “Dead… dead, Yan Gang is dead.”

Even Mu Jin Dharma King found it difficult to remain calm at this moment, his expression grave.

Yan Gang was the leading swordsman of Houjin, a genius swordsman highly regarded by Zongzheng Huachun, who claimed that he would certainly become one of the top swordsmen of his time, his future boundless.

In Houjin, where swordsmanship was not particularly prevalent, a top swordsman was exceptionally rare.

Therefore, Yan Gang not only had a great reputation in Houjin but was also the subject of much attention and expectation.

But now, he had died by the sword of the Ghost Swordsman.

“Such a terrifying Sword Dao.”

Mu Jin Dharma King kept recalling the stroke of the Ghost Swordsman, his brows tightly furrowed.

He had seen the swordsmanship of top swordsmen before, but never anything as ‘distinctive’ as that of the Ghost Swordsman, giving him a sense of substantial weight as if facing a mountain.

The practice of weapons such as swords, blades, and spears is divided into seven realms, and different methods lead to different intents, thereby creating many schools of thought.

By comparison, the realm distinctions in hand-to-hand combat and body refining are much simpler, with just one way, divided into four major realms: Body and Mind Unity, Flawless Body, Heavenly Human Communication, and Heavenly Man Unity.

To advance to the Master Realm, one must reach the first boundary of Body and Mind Unity.

For ninety-nine percent of experts, reaching the Body and Mind Unity realm is extremely difficult.

The Universal Benefit Bodhisattva from the Buddhist sect, who perfected the True Martial level Martial Arts “Vajra Immortal Body,” was at the Master Realm level of Flawless Body.

Xiao Qianqiu, before his battle with Lou Xiangzhen, was also at the realm of Flawless Body and was on the verge of touching Heavenly Human Communication; whether he reached this realm or not is unknown.

As can be seen, the difficulty of progressing in body refining realms is immensely challenging, much more so than increasing power with blades and swords in the early stages, and the demands are also extremely high.

Thus, even among the world’s top hand-to-hand combat and body-refining masters, many renowned Master Realm experts are only at the level of Flawless Body.

Those who can reach Heavenly Human Communication are as rare as phoenix feathers and unicorn horns; such experts are either old monsters or hidden away in some obscure corner cultivating, rarely appearing in the martial world.

It is even an unknown number whether they exist at all.

Although it is very difficult to progress in realms of hand-to-hand combat and body refining, each advancement brings a visibly significant increase in strength.

It’s even more exaggerated than the latter three stages of weapon prowess.

Until now, An Jing had only practiced the Buddhist “Brahma Heart Sees Me” and “Nine Yang Divine Finger” in terms of hand-to-hand combat and body-refining techniques.

As he was devoted to the Sword Dao, he didn’t pay much attention to these two types of martial arts and has not yet reached the realm of Body and Mind Unity.

However, reaching that realm is not difficult for someone with his talent; the only challenge is when he will achieve Body and Mind Unity.

The place fell silent for a long time before a Houjin expert spoke in a low voice, “Dharma King, what should we do now?”

Mu Jin Dharma King said with a deep voice, “Take Yan Gang’s body. We’re leaving.”

Afterward, a group of Houjin experts carried Yan Gang’s corpse and began walking towards the door.

Just as Mu Jin Dharma King left, his eyes glanced at An Jing intentionally or otherwise, the killing intent in his gaze fleeting.

“Ah, such auspicious blood, just looking at it is lucky.”

Qiu Lun came over at this moment, looking down at the fresh red blood on the ground and mumbled to himself.

Pingyang Marquis Qiu Heng also called out, “Everyone, don’t mind this, keep eating and drinking as you were.”

“Well killed.”

Many officials in the temples were inwardly delighted to see this, how could they not be excited that the spirit of the Houjin people had been dampened?

Gao Sheng, watching the Ghost Swordsman still drinking with Li Fuzhou, slowly said, “I fear that Ghost Swordsman may not live out the night, given that Mu Jin Dharma King glanced at him when he was leaving.”

Tang Taiyuan indifferently said, “Although this man saved Princess An Le and killed Yan Gang, he has turned against the National Religion and has also made friends with the Demon Sect’s Li Fuzhou; surely he is a disaster waiting to happen.”

Gao Sheng nodded, fully agreeing with Tang Taiyuan’s latter statement.

Good and evil are merely different sides of the same coin, or different interests.

The Ghost Swordsman had said while killing Yan Gang that he was exacting repayment for a life because Mu Jin Dharma King had previously saved Qi Shu.

In the eyes of the people in the Great Yan Martial World, Yan Gang might have been arrogant and deserved punishment, but to the people of Houjin, he might as well be a hero.

One man’s poison is another man’s honey.

One man’s bandit is another man’s hero.

Just as Tang Taiyuan put it, with no ambiguity, to him the Ghost Swordsman, who got along well with the Demon Sect’s Li Fuzhou, is undoubtedly a villain.

Gao Sheng pondered for a moment then reminded, “Lord Tang, you need to be careful in the upcoming battle at the Eight Feet Platform.”

If an ordinary Half-step Master dared to challenge Tang Taiyuan, in Gao Sheng’s eyes, it would undoubtedly be a death wish. Let alone a Half-step Master; even a One Qi Master would be undoubtedly doomed.

But today’s challenger was Li Fuzhou.

In Gao Sheng’s view, there were many scholars in the world, ninety-nine percent of whom were deadbeats in their studies, but Li Fuzhou was the only one he had seen so far who had brought life to his reading.

Tang Taiyuan’s complexion was as calm as the abyss, “This old man shall present his head to the Human Emperor.”

Gao Sheng did not speak, but he was looking forward to the fight on the Eight Feet Platform.

Yue Tingchen sighed, “Such a formidable swordsman, no wonder he’s gained such a great reputation in just a year’s time and is held in such high esteem by the divine prognosticator Jiang Sanjia.”

His martial arts realm was not high, but that did not prevent him from knowing Yan Gang’s formidability. The fact that such an impressive Yan Gang was killed by a single sword strike was testament to the Ghost Swordsman’s prowess.

Yue Tingchen spoke in a voice that was neither loud nor soft, just enough for Mu Xiaowan to hear clearly.

The three words ‘Jiang Sanjia’ felt like needles pricking sharply into her heart.

It was an uncomfortable feeling.

Jiang Sanjia had true affection for her, but she took advantage of him and even drove him to his death eventually. She wanted to bury this not so glorious past.

But the emergence of the Ghost Swordsman constantly reminded her of that unsightly history.

Mu Xiaowan, watching An Jing’s figure, sneered to herself, “Since you want to kill me so badly, I’ll give you a chance then.”

The crowd on the scene showed varied expressions, displaying a diverse range of emotions—some felt unfettered joy, while others harbored hidden murderous intents.

Qiu Lun walked over to An Jing with a smile and said, “Big brother, I toast to you with this cup.” @@novelbin@@

An Jing lifted his cup with an impassive face and transmitted his voice, “The death of Yan Gang, it seems, was a settled matter long ago.”

From the fat man’s demeanor, it was clear that today was a trap set up. If it wasn’t Lin Yiyang making a move, then it would be him.

After thinking for a moment, Qiu Lun also transmitted his voice, “Big brother should be careful of the Jinmu Dharma King.”

No matter what, having used the Evil Suppressing Sword to kill Yan Gang today and fulfill the secret order from the Crown Prince, the Jinmu Dharma King would not let this slide without revenge.

Logically speaking, with Yujing City being home to many experts and powerful individuals like the rain. Even the Jinmu Dharma King, at the peak of the Second Qi Grandmaster level, would not dare to act rashly. However, considering the Ghost Swordsman had previously offended the Zhenyi Sect, just now confronted the white-browed eunuch, and now, was getting along famously with Li Fuzhou, he clearly belonged to the category of ‘neither favored by grandmother nor loved by uncle’. If the Jinmu Dharma King targeted him, the Royal Family might not step in to protect him.

An Jing spoke lightly, “I understand.”

After another moment of thought, Qiu Lun transmitted, “From what I know, Mu Xiaowan used to be quite close to the Second Prince, but ever since the Heavenly Mechanism Pavilion fell, she has not been as enthusiastic as before. However, she still has close ties to the Second Prince. Actually, the Crown Prince is a very good option for you, big brother. You might consider…”

In Qiu Lun’s eyes, although An Jing was currently facing enemies on all sides, having rescued Princess An Le and slain Yan Gang were both meritorious deeds for Great Yan. If he could establish a connection with the Crown Prince, it would be highly beneficial.

Despite his rough exterior, Qiu Lun’s mind was as fine as a thread.

Indeed, An Jing transmitted back, “I have my own thoughts, you need not worry.”

“Alright, then I’ll head over there first, big brother.”

Qiu Lun smiled and then walked off towards a distant location.

Li Fuzhou watched Qiu Lun’s retreating figure and said, “This meat mountain is quite crafty.”

An Jing nodded, “Extremely sly.”

Li Fuzhou then turned to Tan Yun, who was earnestly ‘chewing thoroughly and eating slowly’, and said, “Tan Yun, hurry up and eat. Once you’re full, we’ll be leaving.”

Tan Yun wiped his mouth and asked in confusion, “Master, why leave so quickly? Didn’t you want to see your old friends?”

“I’ve seen all the old friends I wanted to,” Li Fuzhou replied.

He pointed towards the distance, indicating the officials, Ling Yuanjing, Jia Shiwu, Zuo Biwen, and others.

Tan Yun blinked and realized that when his master said he was going to ‘see’ old friends, he really just meant to ‘see’ them.

Li Fuzhou glanced at An Jing and said, “Besides, if we don’t leave now, what will we do if we get into trouble later?”

He had killed the Houjin genius swordsman, and the Jinmu Dharma King did not look like someone who would easily let things go, which would surely lead to trouble.

“Alright then,” came the response.

Tan Yun reluctantly looked at the remaining half of the roast chicken on the table. His eyes suddenly lit up, “Mr. Zhou has not eaten yet; maybe I should bring some for him. Otherwise, all this food would go to waste. Master, have you not always taught me to be frugal?”

An Jing almost laughed out loud at the side, clearly, he just wanted to eat, no?

Li Fuzhou arrived without even a simple invitation, and he didn’t give any congratulatory gift or money. Now, after mooching off a meal, he was even thinking of taking away leftovers.

Li Fuzhou sighed deeply and said, “As you wish.”

Tan Yun gestured at a servant of Pingyang Marquis Mansion, then whispered a few words to him.

The servant from Pingyang Marquis Mansion paused for a moment when he heard this, quickened his steps towards the kitchen, and soon returned with some parchment paper, handing it to Tan Yun.

Tan Yun did not stand on ceremony and packed the tasty delicacies from the table into a piece of parchment paper.

“Let’s go.”

Li Fuzhou gestured a cupped hand salute to Qiu Heng and started walking towards the door.

Tan Yun also followed with satisfaction.

After An Jing drank another cup, he was about to stand up when a figure calmly approached.

It was none other than the East Palace’s Junior Preceptor, Bai Jing.

Bai Jing smiled and said, “It seems that your swordsmanship has improved once again, congratulations are in order.”

An Jing indifferently replied, “There’s nothing praiseworthy about that.”

Bai Jing took out an invitation from his bosom and said, “This is a Heroic Invitation from the Crown Prince for you.”

“Heroic Invitation?”

An Jing raised an eyebrow.

Bai Jing smiled and explained, “The Crown Prince has invited experts from the six major sects, as well as some old masters from Jianghu, to hold a heroes’ meeting on the seventeenth of May. Given that you possess the ‘Daluo Sect’s’ mental method and the ‘Ghost Valley Sect’s’ mental method, you may attend as the sect leader of the Daluo Sect, especially since the Daluo Sect is still officially registered with the Ministry of Revenue.”

An Jing glanced at the Heroic Invitation and waved his hand, saying, “I’m not interested in this heroes’ meeting.”

Bai Jing’s brows furrowed slightly, but then he still reclaimed the invitation and said, “Then I’ll take my leave. If you’re ever interested, you’re welcome at Yuhua Villa at any time.”

After speaking, Bai Jing returned to his seat.

In Jianghu, some people are accustomed to being unconventional, like the previously mentioned Lou Xiangzhen, and now, the Ghost Swordsman before them.

Seeing this scene, many people became thoughtful.

Jia Shiwu frowned and said, “This Ghost Swordsman is really too…”

The Second Prince had extended an olive branch to him, clearly intending to protect the Ghost Swordsman, yet he refused.

Concerned, Jia Meixian asked, “Grandfather, will there be trouble?”

Jia Shiwu shook his head without speaking.

Dai Danshu spoke in a low voice, “This Ghost Swordsman is too arrogant.”

Zuo Biwen thought for a moment and then said, “I will go and have a word with him.”

“Brother Zuo.”

Dai Danshu stopped Zuo Biwen with a hand and said, “He has already refused; anything more you say would be in vain.”

“This…”

Upon hearing this, Zuo Biwen showed a hint of difficulty.

Indeed, the Ghost Swordsman had refused the Crown Prince’s goodwill; anything he could say now wouldn’t change the situation at hand.

An Jing stood up, cupped his hand towards Qiu Heng, and said, “Marquis, I shall take my leave now.”

With a solemn nod, Qiu Heng replied, “Please.”

“Big brother.” Qiu Lun thought for a moment and still called out loudly, “Don’t you want to drink a few more cups?”

In an instant, everyone’s attention turned to them.

“Hahaha.”

An Jing burst into laughter and walked towards the gate under everyone’s gaze.

“He might die.”

Qiu Wanxia murmured, watching An Jing’s retreating figure.

Mu Jin Dharma King’s temperament was extremely violent and ruthless; given that the Ghost Swordsman had killed a genius from Houjin in front of everyone, he would surely seek revenge.

“Let’s go have a look.”

Upon hearing this, Lin Yiyang slowly rose and followed.

He Chen looked at Ling Yuanjing beside him and asked, “Junior brother?”

After a long contemplation, Ling Yuanjing said, “Let’s go.”

……

Outside the Pingyang Marquis Mansion, the sky was clear, and the sunlight was warm.

Many beggars who had been standing at the door asking for celebratory money also dispersed, as if to spread the news of Yan Gang’s death throughout Yujing City in an instant.

Only a few pedestrians remained, along with some people who were coming out of the wedding banquet and ready to leave.

But everyone who saw the black-robed man walking out was stunned for a moment, and then they all made way for a path.

After walking about a dozen steps, An Jing suddenly paused and looked into the distance.

In front stood an old man dressed in the attire of Houjin.

He was alone in the middle of the street, with no one else around.

“It’s Mu Jin Dharma King.”

Someone whispered, “He hasn’t left yet.”

Then there was silence all around as everyone watched the two of them.

Mu Jin Dharma King said to the black-robed man in front, “Your sword is very fast, faster than Yan Gang’s.”

An Jing, expressionless, replied, “His sword was too slow.”

“I want to know exactly how fast your sword is.”

Mu Jin Dharma King smiled and said, “With a single move, we’ll decide the superior and determine life and death, what do you think?”

As the words of Mu Jin Dharma King fell, everyone around became solemn.

The title of Dharma King in the Great Snow Mountain is not something any expert can assume at will; the vast Houjin only has the top sect of Great Snow Mountain, and it can be said that seventy percent of the experts come from there.

The Great Snow Mountain has only five Dharma Kings, and Mu Jin Dharma King is one of them.

Moreover, the Great Snow Mountain holds a lofty position in Houjin. The status of a Dharma King is comparable to that of a heavyweight minister of the state. Even royal nobles like Zongzheng Yuan find it difficult to command a Dharma King level expert on a regular day.

This time, as Houjin’s envoy to Great Yan, Mu Jin Dharma King was ordered by Zongzheng Huachun to accompany and protect them, which speaks volumes.

Mu Jin Dharma King became famous early among the five Dharma Kings. His most famous battle was the debate between Buddhist and the Great Snow Mountain thirty years ago.

Mu Jin Dharma King fought with the Buddhist Da Yan Vajra.

It is said that the two fought for a day and a night at the summit of the snow mountain, ending in a draw. The snow mountain is said to have been turned into a puddle by their True Qi.

The battle ended in a draw, and both sides ceased the fight.

Buddhist Vajra usually cultivated physical techniques, and compared to the Bodhisattva Fruit Position, they specialized in combat capabilities, being extremely powerful even among peers of the same realm.

Although this Da Yan Vajra has long since passed away, when he was alive, his cultivation was at the peak of One Qi Grandmaster, and he even had the record of surviving a fight with a Second Qi Grandmaster.

Mu Jin Dharma King’s ability to fight Da Yan Vajra to a draw demonstrates his formidable strength.

Now, thirty years later, Mu Jin Dharma King must have improved from the past.

Throughout Mu Jin Dharma King’s life till now, he has only suffered two defeats: one at the hands of another Dharma King, and another to Zongzheng Huachun.

Besides these, he has not known any other defeats.

Although Mu Jin Dharma King’s reputation in the Great Yan martial world may not be as great as Feng Lingyue and Qi Shu, true experts who have traveled the world know that Mu Jin Dharma King’s strength is not at all inferior to theirs.

At this time, Lin Yiyang and Qiu Wanxia also came out.

Besides them, there were Ling Yuanjing, Jia Shiwu, Dai Danshu, Zuo Biwen, and other Great Yan martial world experts.

Nobody expected that Mu Jin Dharma King would seek revenge so quickly, just as the Ghost Swordsman stepped out.

Lin Yiyang indifferently said, “At the same realm, the number of moves doesn’t matter.”

Zuo Biwen nodded and added, “That’s right, if the Dharma King really wants to contest, just like before, he can suppress to the same realm.”

If they were to clash directly, how could the Ghost Swordsman, with his Half-step Master cultivation, be a match for Mu Jin Dharma King? But at the same cultivation realm, with the Ghost Swordsman’s Sword Dao, Mu Jin Dharma King might not be his match.

“That’s just child’s play. We rely on actual strength.”

Mu Jin Dharma King’s eyes narrowed as he looked at An Jing and challenged, “Sir, do you dare to take my strike?”

“This Mu Jin Dharma King is really despicable.”

Qiu Lun couldn’t help but snort lightly, “Big brother, weren’t you going to have a few more drinks with me? Let’s go back and continue drinking.”

It was clear to everyone that Mu Jin Dharma King was trying to regain face, hoping to kill the Ghost Swordsman with one strike, just like he did with Yan Gang.

Mu Jin Dharma King glanced at Qiu Lun with a dark expression, clearly annoyed by the fatty giving the Ghost Swordsman a way out.

All eyes at the scene turned to An Jing, with some feeling joy and others concern.

The Ghost Swordsman’s ability to slay a One Qi Grandmaster was no secret to those present, but the gap between a One Qi Grandmaster and a Second Qi Grandmaster was not trivial.

Moreover, Mu Jin Dharma King could very well be at the peak of Second Qi Grandmaster, on the verge of advancing to the level of Three Qi Grandmaster.

“Don’t dare? Is this really the kind of sword immortals Great Yan boasts of?”

Mu Jin Dharma King sneered mockingly.

He knew that people from Great Yan were the least tolerant of provocation.

“Since you’re so eager for a contest, I can oblige you with a match.”

Just then, a hoarse voice echoed from afar.

Who is it?!

The sudden appearance of the voice attracted everyone’s attention, and they couldn’t help but look toward the source.

They saw a man dressed in the Xuanyi Guard’s great mantle, with an extraordinarily pale complexion, walking out.

He had no fluctuations of qi mechanism around him, identical to An Jing. Had he not spoken up, everyone would still have thought he was just an ordinary commoner from the street.

“Hmm!?”

Tang Taiyuan was slightly surprised when he saw this.

The clothes worn by the man were indeed those of the Xuanyi Guard’s Great Heavenly Gang, but among the many Heavenly Gang members of the Xuanyi Guard, he did not recognize this one.

This person was none other than Prince Xus.

Prince Xus walked up to An Jing and smiled, “I haven’t arrived too late, have I?”

“Just on time.”

An Jing looked at Mu Jin Dharma King in front of him.

As early as when he was confronting the Chamberlain, he had already crushed the ancient jade Prince Xus had given him.

Mu Jin Dharma King looked at Prince Xus and asked with knitted brows, “Who are you?”

The man before him seemed to have appeared out of thin air; he could not sense any breath of life from him at all.

Prince Xus indifferently said, “It’s not important who I am. Right now, I just want to know if I can kill you with one move.”

Whoosh!

A stir went through the surrounding area, and everyone’s expressions changed subtly.

To kill Mu Jin Dharma King in one move – even a Four Qi Grandmaster would probably find that difficult, wouldn’t they? Just who was this person making such a brazen claim?

Ling Yuanjing said with a grave voice, “Who is this? Where did this madman come from?”

Gao Sheng was also curious, “An accomplice of the Ghost Swordsman?”

Bai Jing was also very surprised in her heart, “The Ghost Swordsman has another expert by his side? How is that possible!?”

If this was the aid Ghost Swordsman had refused to recruit for the Crown Prince, she was somewhat curious.

The White Browed Chamberlain saw Prince Xus and his white eyebrows deeply furrowed, “That mysterious Grandmaster?”

Mu Jin Dharma King heard Prince Xus’s words and laughed, “You’re probably not aware of who I am, are you?”

In this world, there was actually someone claiming they could kill him in one move.

If it had been the Human Emperor of Great Yan, or the old monster from the Hidden Mountain of the Zhenyi Sect, or even the thousand-year-old turtle under this pond floor, it would indeed make him panic. But some randomly emerging expert claiming to kill him in one move?

“Come on then.”

Prince Xus swept his great mantle and looked toward Mu Jin Dharma King.

“Well, then let me test your prowess. Let’s see if your bark is as tough as your bite.”

Mu Jin Dharma King sneered, but he was not the slightest bit careless or sloppy in his heart.

Ssssssssss…….

The moment he finished speaking, a gust of wind surged around them, as if blades were scraping across everyone’s faces.

And the body of Mu Jin Dharma King was dazzling to the extreme, emitting robust power. With each movement, he seemed capable of splitting heaven from earth.

Great Snow Mountain is currently one of the world’s topmost Body Refining Sects aside from Buddhist Vajra.

Mu Jin Dharma King was practicing a Heavenly Martial level Body Refining Method, the Divine Statue Technique.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

Mu Jin Dharma King’s True Qi surged forward, stomping his feet, and visible cracks appeared on the ground’s stone slabs, spreading out towards the distance.

His martial prowess and Universal Benefit Bodhisattva’s also had achieved the Flawless Body.

And his figure shot out like a ghost, appearing in front of King Xu in just a breath’s time. Mysterious light patterns spread across his body.

Divine Image Heaven and Earth!

Jinmu Dharma King’s eyes flashed with cruelty as he immediately deployed his ultimate skill. Although he roared wrathfully, his attack was made with full force.

An ethereal shadow emerged behind him, as if a sculpted relic of a distant past flickered in and out of existence.

Boom!

Jinmu Dharma King’s fist expanded instantly as he threw his punch, which landed heavily like a mountain, shattering the air and splitting the ground with its terrifying power.

However, as many gazes shifted to King Xu, they couldn’t help but be stunned to find King Xu standing motionless, allowing the earth-shattering punch to come his way.

“Does this man not know to dodge?”

Many exchanged perplexed looks. Jinmu Dharma King had seized the initiative with an impressive offensive momentum. Normally, one would prioritize avoidance to escape the sharpness of the attack and then counterattack with their own force, but why did this person appear like a wooden doll, standing still?

Under the numerous astonished gazes, the horrific punch finally howled its way toward King Xu. Just as it was about to hit his chest, King Xu finally made his move.

He extended his palm, and a vast force surged from his fingers.

Bang!

The moment of impact was accompanied by a world-shaking loud noise. A visible shock wave ravaged the surrounding streets, cracking them with fissures as cobblestones burst apart.

Dust billowed, slowly dissipating.

Gazes then shifted, and their expressions subtly changed as they saw the two combatants clashing fists in the middle of the street.

The stone slabs around King Xu turned to dust, but a slab under his feet remained intact as if nothing had happened. Moreover, not an inch of his body had moved!

Bai Mei, the eunuch, had his eyes narrow, clearly not expecting King Xu to so effortlessly withstand Jinmu Dharma King’s ferocious punch.

In the midst of the widespread shock, Jinmu Dharma King’s own expression changed. A terrifying force instantly spread within him as his blood coursed through his body rapidly.

A vast, supremely domineering force erupted from the clash of fists.

His punch seemed not to have struck the man’s fist but had collided with a mountain.

“Thump!”

In the next moment, an explosive wave of force violently dispersed. Jinmu Dharma King’s complexion drastically shifted, and he stumbled backward repeatedly, retreating dozens of steps before finally collapsing to the ground with a thud, coughing up fresh blood.

Silence!

All became eerily quiet.

Only the teetering Jinmu Dharma King continued to cough up blood.

King Xu scratched his head and turned around, somewhat apologetically saying, “I didn’t manage to kill with one punch, my apologies.”

Everyone was horrified as they looked at King Xu as if they had seen a ghost. The words they had thought flippant he had meant seriously.

He really had intended to kill Jinmu Dharma King with a single punch.

That was a Second Qi Peak Grandmaster, and not just any, but a Second Qi Peak Grandmaster with a mastery in body refining.

“Who exactly is he?”

Ling Yuanjing asked, his voice trembling.

To have severely injured a Second Qi Grandmaster with one punch – this strength was hardly inferior to that of Sect Leader Xiao Qianqiu. The Ghost Swordsman had such a formidable master by his side.

What was his identity, his background?

It wasn’t just Ling Yuanjing; Jia Shiwu and Zuo Biwen also wore shocked expressions as a tempest of awe surged in their hearts, refusing to subside.

This fair-skinned man was truly too strong.

“Who is this expert…”

The eunuch Bai Mei was especially grave, feeling the unplain force of that punch much more acutely than the others, knowing full well its might.

“Too strong…”

Qiu Lun, staring at the blood-coughing Jinmu Dharma King, couldn’t help but take in a sharp breath.

He would have never imagined that ‘Big Brother’ beside him actually had such a formidable master who was not afraid of Bai Mei, the eunuch.

From this day forward, the Great Yan Martial World likely had one more top-tier master.

An Jing, witnessing the clash between King Xu and Jinmu Dharma King, had an epiphany, as if the truth had been poured into him, especially the seemingly ordinary punch thrown by King Xu that seemed to hold profound and deep principles.

Inner and outer cultivation, unity of body and mind.

This was the fundamental requirement for advancement to the Master Realm. Watching the two Grandmasters battle, he took that critical step.

“Let’s go.”

It took An Jing nearly dozens of breaths to recover, and then he glanced indifferently at the Jinmu Dharma King kneeling on the ground.

“Okay.”

The Prince of Su nodded, following An Jing as they left.

Throughout the heavens and earth, all eyes were fixed on An Jing and the Prince of Su until a long while later, when a burst of discussion erupted.

“Who is that person? He actually severely injured the Jinmu Dharma King with a single punch.”

“Too terrifying, he seems to be the protector of the Ghost Swordsman.”

“What exactly is the background of the Ghost Swordsman?”

“These people from Houjin really like to humiliate themselves.”

…..

Everyone was discussing animatedly, eyes filled with shock and bewilderment.

The scene just now was too unbelievable.

“This Ghost Swordsman is not to be trifled with.”

Yue Tingchen murmured to himself, then scanned the surroundings and noticed that Bai Jing had already hurriedly left.

……

In the Dongluo Desert, beneath the Sealing Demon Well.

Zhao Qingmei looked up, revealing her fair neck, as her beautiful eyes gazed up at the well’s opening above.

Ever since the wooden puppet climbed up two days ago, it had not come back down.

Zhao Qingmei knew Yu Qiurong’s temperament; such a situation would not occur without reason. It must be that some changes had occurred in the Demon Sect. Recalling that Yuan Feng had previously visited the East Camp, she seemed to understand what had happened.

“The Sealing Demon Platform?”

Zhao Qingmei muttered to herself, feeling increasingly cold inside. She couldn’t help but walk towards the cave.

Nan Weiping saw that Zhao Qingmei’s hands were empty and couldn’t help asking, “What? No food again today?”

Zhao Qingmei replied indifferently, “It seems that the Demon Sect has encountered some troubles.”

Nan Weiping chuckled, “As the saying goes, ‘The human heart is separated by the belly’—no one can see through someone else’s heart. Worldly affairs are unpredictable, and not everyone is as you imagine them to be. Not all are as they appear. Only by experiencing these things can you truly see through people’s hearts.”

“To them, you seem to have no hope of escape. It’s normal for some changes to occur.”

Pople’s hearts are fickle and changeable, something she had seen far too often, to the point of growing accustomed to it.

Zhao Qingmei shook her head, her eyes always carrying a hint of coldness, “I firmly believe that some people will never change.”

“Yes, some people never change. But how can you be sure that they are the unchanging ones?”

Nan Weiping waved her hand and said, “If you don’t have any food, with your strength, you probably won’t last half a month. What do you plan to do?”

With her Great Grandmaster cultivation and her body known as a Demi Immortal, she needed the Heaven and Earth Spirit Essence to survive without food. How could Zhao Qingmei, a Grandmaster, survive here without food or water?

“I still have some.”

Zhao Qingmei took out a black package from outside the cave and slowly opened it, revealing some dry food and several water skins.

Nan Weiping was surprised, “You were prepared?”

Zhao Qingmei nodded slightly and said, “It’s always wise to plan ahead for safety, to think of danger in times of peace. Once is enough for a desperate situation.”

Ever since she could contact Yu Qiurong, she had asked her to prepare dry food and water to prevent any special circumstances.

Especially when Yuan Feng went to the East Camp, it made Zhao Qingmei feel a bad premonition.

Now, her guess was not wrong.

“Interesting.”

Nan Weiping looked at the stunning woman in front of her and couldn’t help but give her a thumbs up, “How long before you can reach the eighth layer of the ‘Nine Nether Purgatory Demon Scripture’?”

Zhao Qingmei took a deep breath, “About half a month, that should be enough to reach the eighth layer.”

These past few months had been incredibly long for her, feeling as though she was in constant torment, and now, only half a month of that torment remained.

But in her heart, Zhao Qingmei was extremely grateful for these months, which made her inner strength much more resilient.

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger.

Nan Weiping asked curiously, “What’s the first thing you are going to do after getting out? Kill the usurper?”

Zhao Qingmei replied very calmly, “Correct, I must personally kill anyone within the Demon Sect who dares to usurp the throne.”

“Hahahaha.”

Hearing this, Nan Weiping couldn’t help but laugh, “I definitely don’t want to fight and kill, I just want to watch the sunrise. The people of this world can’t be killed off.”

Zhao Qingmei said indifferently, “I am different from my senior, some people don’t wish for me to see the sunrise.”

Upon hearing this, Nan Weiping sighed softly and said no more.

That’s how it is in Jianghu.

Zhao Qingmei picked up some dry food and water and walked towards the exit of the cave, then slowly sat down cross-legged, involuntarily taking out a paper figure from her bosom.

Fortunately, longing is silent; unfortunately, longing is silent.

Gently stroking the paper figure, Zhao Qingmei’s eyes held a glimmer of gentleness.

All the paths were her own choice, back then she followed Jiang Shang to the Demon Sect, and later, she returned to Yu State City on her own.

She would, of course, bear the storms on the path she had chosen.

“Once I’m out, everything will start to get better.”

Zhao Qingmei took a deep breath, placed the paper figure on her heart, and began to silently recite the “Nine Nether Purgatory Demon Scripture.”

As the “Nine Nether Purgatory Demon Scripture” began to circulate, black Qi surrounded her, forming spiraling whirlwinds that enveloped her entire body.

…….

In Yujing City, Feihua Alley.

A cool breeze continuously blew through the alley.

An Jing, feeling that breeze against his face, became completely calm.

Wang He, holding four or five stuffed buns in one hand and stuffing them into his mouth, asked inarticulately, “Jing’an, these are quite tasty, how’d you get them?”

An Jing smiled and said, “Bought them with silver.”

Wang He asked curiously, “Can it be borrowed?”

“Don’t borrow it, the small business is tough for others as well.”

An Jing couldn’t help but laugh, “Take all of these with you, I won’t eat.”

“Then, thank you very much.”

Wang He, devouring two buns at a time, said, “I’ll be heading back soon, because I can’t be away from Wang He Mountain for long, especially now that I can feel the tremors from beneath the earth becoming even more intense. It’s possible I might not be able to come out to find you again next time…..”

Saying this, Wang He’s expression turned somewhat somber.

“Is that so, that’s truly a pity.”

Hearing this, An Jing also felt somewhat disappointed. He initially planned to have Wang He accompany him to Beili Volcano in search of Volcano Spirit, but now it seemed unlikely.

Wang He looked earnestly at An Jing and said, “If you need to find me, you can come at any time.”

“Alright, I understand.”

An Jing nodded solemnly.

Wang He took a deep breath and said, “Then I’ll take my leave.”

An Jing replied, “Go ahead.”

Wang He’s figure leaped and instantly used the technique of Shrinking Land into Inches, vanishing from Feihua Alley in an instant.

“Life is unpredictable; who knows when the next meeting will be.”

As An Jing watched the figure fade away, he turned and walked out of the alley.

“Amitabha!”

Suddenly, an aged voice echoed.

An Jing turned towards the source of the sound and saw an old monk with a kind and gentle expression, standing with his hands clasped together before him.

An Jing raised his eyebrows and said, “Master Puhui, it seems we truly have fate.”

This old monk was indeed Master Puhui from the Buddhist sect.

Master Puhui spoke softly, “Today, I have come specifically to seek you out.”