Emperor's Domination

by Srtyi

Ten million years ago, Li Qiye planted a simple water bamboo into the ground. Eight million years ago, Li Qiye had a koi fish pet. Five million years ago, Li Qiye cared for a little girl. . . . In the present day, Li Qiye woke up from his slumber; the water bamboo reached the apex of cultivation; the koi fish became a Golden Dragon; the little girl became the Nine Worlds’ Immortal

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Chapter 1 : Three Demon Master (1)

"Baa baa… baa baa… baa baa"

A young shepherd's sheep made noises that echoed across the normally tranquil mountain range.

Li Qi Ye crawled on top of the cliff whilst the cold night breeze blew heavily; however, at this moment, perspiration drowned his body. At thirteen years of age, a little boy like Li Qi Ye was using all of his might to climb the mountain range; this scene in the night sky exuded a macabre sensation for any spectators that were around to witness it.

Although the night was quiet, his mind was tormented by a fire of uncertainty.

Heralding from a poor family, his parents were both peasants. At the age of seven, he started his life as a shepherd. He took the family name Li; his name was Li Qi Ye because he cried for seven days and seven nights after birth.[1]

Today, he was performing his daily task; however, during the evening dawn's approach, he noticed that he was missing his leading sheep. Filled with worries, he rushed back to the mountain range to search for it. After what was seemingly comparable to scouring the entire mountain range, he still could not find even a shadow of the sheep.

Thinking about the missing sheep and its evil owner, Zhang Da Hu, Li Qi Ye feared for the worst in his heart.

Suddenly, Li Qi Ye thought of one place. There was only one place that he didn't search, the Heaven Demon Grotto!

As he looked toward the Heaven Demon Grotto in front of him, the mountain range in the dark night resembled a fierce beast from the Ancient Desolate Era with its mouth gaping, hungering for human flesh. Hearing the wolves' howls reverberating from side to side, he couldn't help but shiver in fear.

The Heaven Demon Grotto was considered a cursed place in the surrounding area. Legend has it that an evil demon exists there, who instantly consumed any trespasser. No one had ever made it out of the cave alive.

At this moment, the sounds of Zhang Da Hu's whips reverberated in Li Qi Ye's ears. If he truly lost the sheep, then Zhang Da Hu would definitely whip his flesh into tatters.

Having reached this point, Li Qi Ye grinded his teeth and approached the cave as his body disappeared in the night.

"Aaaaaaaahhhhh…"

The night screeched sadly along with the young boy's scream.

Li Qi Ye's horrified voice once again rang:

"You, you, what is your intention? … Ahh…"

Suddenly, the terrible screams came to an end.

An unknown amount of time later, at the depths of the Heaven Demon Grotto, the silence was broken with a menacing voice:

"Good, good, good, my immortal Dark Crow has finally been completed. Only a soul was missing; today I will coincidentally borrow your soul for a little bit!"

-Phwoosh… phwoosh… phwoosh!

A moment later, As each flap rung loudly, a strange, dark crow flew away from the Heaven Demon Grotto.

"Fly, fly, I will use your soul to find all the Forbidden Burials; fly across all the land. As long as the Nine Worlds exist, I will find you again!"

From the depths of the Heaven Demon Grotto, the heavy voice once again lingered in the air.

From then on, between this Heaven and Earth, a Dark Crow flew across the planes. From heavenly cities to the most dangerous edges and secret places, it flew without free will, straight through the Nine Worlds for eras without end.

As time passed, millions of years had come and gone; a new peerless master rose up as another fell. Slowly, the crow would appear again. It wanted to escape its master; it wanted to find a purpose to its life.

From the Medicine God to the Immortal Emperor Sky, Immortal Emperor Sanguine, Immortal Emperor Min Ren to Immortal Emperor Tunri and Immortal Emperor Bing Yu…all the way up until the Black Dragon King.

Behind each of these paragons lied the shadow of a crow; one that struggled to find freedom.

As these strongest beings came and went, the crow still mysteriously appeared in the river of time.

The crow was not willing to have his fate controlled, it wanted to oppose the most frightening character in this world.

Millions of years till now, and the changing of era from era…

Li Qi Ye who was floating in the river was suddenly dragged up by a person.

"Aaa!"

As he was being dragged out, Li Qi Ye suddenly woke up. His first reaction was jumping up as he was unfamiliar with his own body. He was unstable and almost fell down to the ground again.

"Ah, my body!"

Looking down and seeing that his body had stayed the same, Li Qi Ye was both ecstatic and scared. Even after the thousands of struggles while fighting against the unending waves and winds, the Dark Crow, Li Qi Ye, still couldn't contain his emotions after regaining his own body.

Taking a deep breath, he lifted his head and saw an old man in front of him.

"Hehehe, it is this Old Man that has saved you from your impending doom."

The old man laughed loudly in an inglorious manner, revealing his three remaining yellow teeth. This made others to feel that his smile was very lowly.

Upstream, Li Qi Ye could still see the dimming structure of the Heaven Demon Grotto. His eyes became increasingly cold; his aura exceeds anything that a thirteen year old child could produce.

Li Qi Ye took a deep breath, and then stared at the old man. After a while, he finally asked:

"How should I address you, Old Man?"

"Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, San Gui Ye."

The old man answered with his mouth agape revealing his three gold teeth, smiling and spitting everywhere.

"Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect…"

Li Qi Ye whispered under his breath. This name reminded him of the sealed memories in his head; the time when he was still imprisoned in the body of the Dark Crow.

"Right now, who has the Heaven's Will?"

Li Qi Ye regained his composure and asked the man.

"Heaven's Will eh? Right now, in this era, no one has been able to carry the Heaven's Will."

The old man was still smiling as he answered.

"Where is Immortal Emperor Ta Kong?"

After hearing his answer, Li Qi Ye's complexion darkened. How long has he been asleep for? Over one hundred thousand years?

"Immortal Emperor Ta Kong has been missing for thirty thousand years."

"What about Black Dragon King of the Heaven Protector Palace?"

Li Qi Ye inquired about the Old Man once again.

"No one knows, the Black Dragon King went missing at the same time as well."

San Gui Ye shook his head.

Hearing this, Li Qi Ye crazily changed his expression. He looked back at the Heaven Demon Grotto again and finally knew why he had regained his body.

"Let us go."

Wearing a sad expression, Li Qi Ye turned around and started to walk away, and didn't care whether San Gui Ye was following him or not. After experiencing near immortality, he knew exactly what he had to do.

The Heaven Protector Palace has the strongest lineage of a peerless master in the current times. That era, when the Black Dragon King was still alive, no one could match her across the Nine Worlds. For three generations she was still respected!

Even though he has been missing for thirty thousand years, the Heaven Protector Palace was still residing arrogantly in this heaven.

At this moment, a young boy around the age of thirteen and a lowly old man with three gold teeth was standing outside of the Heaven Protector Palace.

Standing outside the palace's outer city, Li Qi Ye was burning ceremonial money while whispering.

"Little Black Dragon, you don't have to worry. This life, you have helped me by obtaining my body again; one day, I will stomp the evil land to get revenge for you."

After the burning was complete, Li Qi Ye stared at the Heaven Protector Palace ahead. The scenes were still the same, but the people were no longer there; everything had become foreign. He reminisced about the old days; Little Black Dragon and the memory of them building this city from the ground up through their sheer effort.

Unfortunately, after thirty thousand years, not many still remembered the Dark Crow hiding behind the curtain.

"Heh, let us go back to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect now."

At this time, the old man glanced at Li Qi Ye and told his purpose while revealing his three shiny golden teeth.

"Let us go."

Li Qi Ye calmly nodded his head. No matter how illustrious or mysterious this old man may be, his origin could not surprise Li Qi Ye. He had experienced countless difficulties, and his soul was trapped inside the Dark Crow for millions of years. Era after era, he walked together shoulder to shoulder with Immortal Emperors, and made friends with Alchemy God. What things could still actually surprise him?

As they were leaving, an extremely elegant and beautiful girl stepped out of the palace. She resembled an angel from heaven; a goddess out of this world. The moment she stepped out, she inadvertently saw the fire left over by the ceremonial burning, as well as some mysterious symbols left behind.

After seeing those symbols, her expression greatly changed.

"Who was having a ceremony here just now?"

An old servant nearby immediately went around to look for information and came back with results.

"The city guards said that there was an old man and a young boy around the age of thirteen here just now. They were burning the money."

"Chase and find them immediately."

The girl declared her command.

"Your Highness is supposed to go to God's Mountain right now."

The old servant hesitantly whimpered.

"Find them!"

The goddess yelled softly; her body disappearing across space to find the two.

In the end, she was unable to find them and had to return dejectedly to the palace. The symbols rotated in her head. They had disappeared for a long time, why was it that they appeared again in the outskirt after ten thousands of years? Are they friends or foes?

"Your Highness, we couldn't find the people who were burning the gold ceremonial items."

An old loyal servant reported.

"Order everyone to keep in mind that if there was any news about the two people, immediately report back to me."

The goddess gravely commanded.

Hearing this, the servant was extremely surprised. With the current power of the Heaven Protector Palace and the reputation of their goddess, it was rare that she would carry such a serious expression.

"Then what about the God's Mountain…"

The servant asked.

"Cancel it!"

The goddess exclaimed.

"I have to read the ancient books that the ancestors have left behind; something strange is happening."

She immediately went to the deepest part of the forbidden grounds in the Heaven Protector Palace.

The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect resided in the nation of the Heavenly Jewel Kingdom. It used to be of Immortal Emperor lineage with a long history. In the beginning of the Emperor Era, Immortal Emperor Min Ren imperiously stood at the peak and created a sect and named it Cleansing Incense.

Unfortunately, after millions of years, it could not withstand the test of time and its unforgiving nature. The sect was no longer of the Immortal Emperor ranking that could rules the land like in the old age. No matter how hard it tries, it could not rekindle the ancient glory nor stop its unrelentingly slow demise.

"Elder, not good, a mortal said he wants us to accept him as the prime disciple.

A disciple hurriedly reported to the first elder of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect as he was stepping outside.

"Kick him off the mountain!"

Without giving a glance, the first elder proclaimed.

"Why would you even report such a little thing?"

A mortal wanting to be the prime disciple of our sect? What a joke. A prime disciple is the same as the sect master's protégé; one with the highest chance of becoming the future sect master. Of course, when the sect master wasn't present, then the first elder could still personally take care of these matters.

"But he was recommended by San Gui Ye."

The disciple stuttered.

"San Gui Ye?"

Raising his eyebrows, the first elder unhappily said.

"Was he bribed by liquor? Was that why he is recommending this mortal?"

San Gui Ye used to belong to the sect, but the sect did not want to recognize this member.

Although the name sounded very heroic, this name had caused the sect to lose all dignity.

San Gui Ye had three "good" qualities to him. He was very good at spending money, lying, and fooling around in the brothels. That was why they called him San Gui Ye.[2]

He had not cultivated any methods to its end, but he did have a very big background within the sect. Rumor has it that he was the bastard child of the last Sect Master. That was why, when the last Sect Master died, he asked for the current one to take care of San Gui Ye.

There was also another rumor that San Gui Ye was a bastard, but a bastard from the sect master two generations ago. But because the previous sect master owed this person a great favor, he had no choice but to accept this blur, and unwillingly take care of San Gui Ye. Before the previous sect master passed away, he also asked the current sect master to take care of San Gui Ye.

No matter who his father was, the whole sect and its upper echelon had no love for the old man and the unflattering words regarding San Gui Ye's character or care about the rumours in the world.

The entire sect, from elders to the lowest disciples did not welcome this old man without any cultivation.

"So what if it was San Gui Ye's recommendation, kick him off!"

The first elder yelled out of annoyance; his morning and good mood was ruined by this event.

"Bu-but he said he has the Cleansing Incense Ancient Order from San Gui Ye."

The disciple stuttered once again out of fear.

"The Cleansing Incense Ancient Order!"

After hearing these words, the first elder's expression darkened. After a quiet contemplation, he quickly ordered:

"Gather all of the elders and tell the mortal to wait outside of the grand chamber."

The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect has a total of six elders. After hearing the four words "Cleansing Incense Ancient Order", the other five quickly came to the meeting.

The original patriarch of the sect was Immortal Emperor Min Ren, who left behind three Orders. Two have been recalled to the sect but the third one had fallen into the hands of San Gui Ye.

Outside of the request from the last sect master to take care of San Gui Ye, the second reason why the elders were helpless against San Gui Ye was because he possessed the last Order.

The Order represented Immortal Emperor Min Ren. The holder could request anything from the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

Sitting in the grand chamber of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect while staring at the elusive statue covered by a golden smoke, Li Qi Ye couldn't help but recall many stories from the past.

The statue of Immortal Emperor Min Ren stood strong at the tallest point. Although many years had passed, the statue still carried an ancient aura, seemingly capable of piercing the nine skies. Spectators couldn't help but worship the mere sight; it was as if the Emperor was still in front of them.

Li Qi Ye didn't know how to describe his feelings as he was staring at this statue. The Emperor was dead, but Li Qi Ye was still alive; he forever will be. Although he had obtained his goal and regained his body, all of his old acquaintances have slowly disappear into the mist of time.

[1] Qi meaning seven, Ye meaning night

[2] San – Three, Gui – Demon/Ghost, Ye -Master/Old-man

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Chapter 2 : Three Demon Master (2)

Li Qi Ye remembered when the Ancient Ming era was coming to an end and the age of the Emperors had started; his soul was still trapped in the body of the Dark Crow at that time. This was currently the era when he temporarily regained his sanity from the control of the Heaven Demon Grotto after an eternity of struggles.

When he met Immortal Emperor Min Ren for the first time, Min Ren was still a little boy who was in love with martial arts and had no knowledge of grand cultivation.

The time between now and when he led Immortal Min Ren into the cultivation world was already a few million years. Many generations of experts appeared and disappeared between the mysterious ocean of time.

Inadvertently looking at the obsidian colored wooden stick next to the altar below the statue. Li Qi Ye couldn't help but slightly chuckle at the sight. He couldn't believe that the stick still existed after so many years.

He made great use of it in the past to discipline that group of energetic children, including the Immortal Emperor until they called for their father and mother.

At this moment, the six elders from the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect were all gathered. Even though they were old, but their blood energy was still as apparent as the rainbow, with bright lights surrounding their bodies.

Even though the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had declined, but it was still of Immortal Emperor lineage. If the elders accepted the titles from the Heavenly God Kingdom, then they would all be Named Heroes.

At this moment, the six elders' sharp eyes preyed on Li Qi Ye, intending to unravel his secrets. However, Li Qi Ye remained calm while sitting quietly through the uncomfortable atmosphere.

"Cleansing Incense Ancient Order?"

Eventually, the first elder gravely inquired. The Order was extremely important because it was an object left behind by the founding Immortal Emperor.

Li Qi Ye slowly opened his palm to reveal the Ancient Order. He was surprised when San Gui Ye took him to the town below the sect's mountain and then ran off to the brothel. Before leaving, he casually threw the Order into Li Qi Ye's hand. It was unbelievable that a person like the old man would have the Ancient Order.

In the past, when Li Qi Ye was trapped inside the Dark Crow and when Min Ren carried the Heaven's Will, he gave the three Ancient Orders to Li Qi Ye. Later, Li Qi Ye gave them to different people. After a million years, Li Qi Ye nostalgically stared at the present Order. In the past, he did not need them, but today, he had no choice but to utilize its power.

The six elders passed around the Order while they carefully examined it to confirm that it was indeed authentic. The truth was, the Sect had long wanted to recall the Order, but they did not have a way of forcing it from San Gui Ye's hand. He knew that the Order was equal to another life. Thus, he held onto it with his dear life. Who would have predicted that it would fall into the hands of a mortal without any reputation.

"Where is San Gui Ye?"

The first elder asked coldly. He, in reality, harbored no love for San Gui Ye, a person who could only spend money, lie, and play with women. To him, it did not matter if he was the son of the old sect master.

"He went to the Cui Hong brothel."

Li Qi Ye calmly answered.

Shadows loomed over the six elders' faces. Even though they didn't like him, but the thought of someone from the honorable sect visiting the most famous and popular brothel within a thousand mile radius gave them great shame. And it was not like it was his first time visiting it either; even though they were angry inside and didn't know how to release it, they could only wish that such a notorious player wasn't a part of the sect.

"What is your demand?"

A different elder loudly asked. They didn't know the method he employed in order to obtain the Order; however, the truth was that the truth and the Order in front of them was definitely not a fake.

"I heard that the prime disciple position for the sect is still unoccupied; plus, since San Gui Ye recommends my talents so fervently, I have no choice but to desire this position."

Li Qi Ye slowly proclaimed.

After hearing his answer, the six elders started cursing San Gui Ye. That goddamn bastard, what rights did he have to recommend someone to be the prime disciple of the Sect. It was an extremely important position; the Sect had to carefully select the person. Otherwise, the spot would have already been occupied.

"Don't use the prime disciple position as a joke!"

One elder spoke with cold intent.

"I know."

Li Qi Ye calmly and slowly enunciated his words without fear:

"But the person carrying the Order has the right to demand any request; this is the rule established by the Immortal Emperor Min Ren."

"What if you used an underhanded method to obtain this order?"

The first elder interjected with a threatening statement. This position wasn't something that could be joked about or given without any thoughts.

Li Qi Ye replied in a cavalierly manner:

"I understand, the Elders' fear that I might have used demonic ploys to force the Order from the hands of San Gui Ye. However, if you guys do not trust me, you can send people to the Cui Hong Brothel for confirmation."

The elders cried in pain deep within their hearts every time they heard the word "Cui Hong Brothel", but they had no choice but to send disciples to confirm the truth.

A moment later, a disciple did indeed confirm Li Qi Ye's words. He tried his best to leave out information regarding San Gui Ye's current joyful and debaucherous disposition with the girls, or the Elders would go crazy.

Unwilling as they might be, the elders had to follow the rules given by the Patriarch. Even if the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect has fallen, their lineage was still of the Immortal Emperor's. Thus, they will not dishonor the reputation left behind.

"Bring the Truth Mirror."

The Truth Mirror shined on Li Qi Ye's body. Any mortal wanting to join a sect for cultivation purposes must be judged by the mirror. It tested the Physique, Life Wheel, and Fate Palace.

Within the mirror, Li Qi Ye's reflection appeared. It was but a hazy, unstable shadow that could go out at any time. Behind his head appeared an illusive blood halo while the top had a radiating light. However, both were extremely feeble.

"Physique is of a mortal. The Life Wheel is a mortal's life. The Fate Palace is also a mortal's destiny."

The disciple reported the findings of the Truth Mirror on Li Qi Ye's innate talents and physical condition.

Every person had a Physique, Life Wheel, and Fate Palace. The Physique directly affected the physical strength; Life Wheel indicated one's longevity; and the Fate Palace showed one's innate talent for cultivation.

However, Li Qi Ye, with his Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace, had silenced the elders. He was the most average of men; the sect could go outside and grab any commoner from the street with the same characteristics.

"If you want to be the Prime Disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, at the very least you would need a Xiantian Physique, not mentioning King Physique, Saint Physique. Your Life Wheel is also has to be around the same. Your abilities are not fit for this position.

The first elder directly rejected.

"I am aware."

Li Qi Ye didn't want to think too much and casually spoke.

"But I still want to be the prime disciple."

"You…"

After hearing those words, the elders were extremely aggravated. This person is not qualified to be a normal disciple, let alone the prime disciple. This is the most unreasonable of requests.

"I trust that the descendants of the Immortal Emperor will not relinquish their words or violate the ancestral rule, bringing shame to the sect and the linage."

Li Qi Ye played around with the Order in his hand and slowly spoke:

"If this Order were to fall into another's hands, the result would be unimaginable."

Hearing this, the expressions of the six elders froze. The first elder gazed at him and coldly retorted:

"Even if such a thing happened, anyone who wants to be the prime disciple of our sect has to be tested on all aspects; this ranges from his origin to his background as well as his innate talents. Otherwise, the sect would not allow an unqualified candidate."

"That is your problem."

Li Qi Ye stared at the six elders and said:

"If you think a different sect sent me to steal your Immortal Emperor's heritage, I would not need to become the prime disciple. By the order of virtue, I can just ask for them, no need to bother becoming the prime disciple. You should know this better than me! If I wanted to harm the sect, with the power of this Order, it would not be a difficult feat."

Li Qi Ye's words made the elders glanced at each other. Even though they were a bit ambivalent, but they didn't entirely trust Li Qi Ye.

"He is not exactly without reason."

Elder Cao, one of the six elders slowly responded:

"If the Order keeps on wandering around outside, wouldn't that be a hidden danger to us? We cannot refuse anyone with the Order. We might as well accept his request."

"Hmph… This matter cannot be taken lightly!

The first elder coldly replied.

"From the past until now, the prime disciple has always been the head disciple under the sect master. Whether we accept or not, we must ask the sect master's opinion regarding this decision, then make a choice later."

Another elder mused the statement.

"Makes sense, in the end the prime disciple would be the direct disciple of the sect master."

The remaining elders agreed.

"Send a letter to sect master."

After the six elders debated, the first elder immediately commanded.

The letter arrived to sect master Su Yong Huang just for a little bit, but the six elders immediately received a reply. And the answer was that the sect master allowed for Li Qi Ye to become the Prime Disciple causing them to be extremely surprised.

"Truly unbelievable! The sect master was too rash!"

First elder read the letter three times, and confirmed that he didn't misread, and angrily yelled.

"Brother Gu, if the sect master agreed, then why are we still debating? In the end the prime disciple is still the direct disciple of the sect master, and the choice is in the sect master's hand."

Elder Cao persuaded with his words.

"Sect master was being too rash,ah."

Another elder shook his head and sighed.

Elder Cao forcefully smiled:

"So be it, we have no other choice. Ultimately, if we could recover the Order, then we would have done a great service to the sect."

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Chapter 3 : Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect (1)

"Three days later, after honoring the ancestors, you will formally become the prime disciple of our sect."

The first elder, while very discontent, still managed to grunt out a response.

Li Qi Ye was still sitting casually, without a trace of surprise. He only chuckled out loud.

"Me becoming the prime disciple should warrant a weapon or two for my personal safety, right?"

Seeing his comfortable state under heavy pressure, all of the six elders were surprised. In the end, the boy was only thirteen years old, but his calm demeanor resembled a tyrant that dominated one sphere, having everything under his control. How could a mortal like him have such a courageous spirit.

The first elder glanced at Li Qi Ye, shook his head and told him:

"Although we accepted you as the prime disciple, we can only give you a normal weapon. If you desire a formidable treasure or an Immortal Emperor Merit Law, you would have to contribute enough merits to the sect."

Li Qi Ye smirked; his goal was certainly not an Immortal Emperor Merit Law or a peerless technique. His true aim was the black wooden stick lying on the pedestal. Averting his gaze to the stick, Li Qi Ye continued:

"Fine, I want that wooden stick."

"That wooden stick?"

The six elders' bodies staggered in surprise.

The stick was only used for gathering the ashes after a ceremonial burning to honor the ancestors. It had always been there and no one had any interest in it.

The elders thought Li Qi Ye would ask for treasures using his new status, but he simply wanted a wooden stick. This request was outside of their expectation.

Li Qi Ye said with ease.

"Since I am the prime disciple, my position is worthy of respect. The stick belongs to the grand chamber, and this is the Ancestral Grand Chamber of all of the sect. Its symbolism represents the power of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, so it is worthy relative to my current position as the prime disciple…"

After hearing Li Qi Ye's continuous logic, the six elders looked around themselves with their eyes wide open. They thought to themselves, this idiotic brat and that goddamn playboy San Gui Ye definitely belong together. Just like how an ox seeks another ox, a horse would find another horse.[1]

"So be it, we shall bestow this stick upon you."

The first elder was happy to give this worthless stick to Li Qi Ye if it meant that he doesn't have to hear his incessant blabbering anymore. To him, this thing was only a regular wooden stick to move the ashes. Might as well give it to Li Qi Ye so he didn't have to listen on to his rambling.

"Many thanks to the honorable elders."

Li Qi Ye was eagerly waiting for those words. Before his words finished coming out of his mouth, his hands were already holding the stick. This action in the eyes of the six elders was seen as being very naive.

"Huai Ren, take him to his resting quarter."

Finally, an elder became impatient and told a nearby disciple to send Li Qi Ye away.

Today's events had greatly stressed the six elders; a wastrel becoming the Prime Disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. Even if the sect had long gone passed its glory days, it was not destitute enough to accept a waste of a human being as the prime disciple.

Led by the disciple, Li Qi Ye approached a solitary single peak. It was not small; on top of it laid a small villa the size of 36,000 square meters.

The villa had been abandoned for a long time, surrounded by weeds and wild plants. Although it is far away from everything, it is still a part of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

Opening the door, the disciple immediately said:

"Junior Disci-, no; Senior Disciple, this place will be your home from now on."

He only spoke two words, but quickly realized his mistake.

Based on the time Li Qi Ye joined the sect, Li Qi Ye was his junior disciple; however, because he was the prime disciple, anyone within the third generation – no matter how young or old – would have to call him senior disciple.

Li Qi Ye glanced at this wily disciple, and looked around then nodded his head:

"This peak far away from everything is a good place.

"Plus it is very fitting with its name, Lonely Peak."

The disciple smilingly said. He peeked at Li Qi Ye a few times, then finally spoke:

"You will be the master of this peak in the future."

The truth was, according to the rules of the sect, the Prime Disciple has the right to live in a peak closest to the center. The sect owned many peaks, and the Prime Disciple could choose any peak for himself.

But most of the main peaks of the sect were occupied. Moreover, all six elders were unhappy with Li Qi Ye. Thus, he was exiled to this faraway place away from any main peaks.

The main peaks located near the center contained thicker world essence than the collateral mountains and inferior peaks.

"This place will be just fine."

Li Qi Ye naturally proclaimed. He was not a petty man regarding such trivial matters.

"I have brought all the daily necessities to senior disciple earlier."

This Junior Disciple thoroughly handled matters with ease and experience. After taking care of all the items needed for daily activities, he politely said:

"If you need anything else, just come to the outer area to find me."

"What is your name?"

Before the disciple departed, Li Qi Ye casually asked.

The disciple was surprised by the sudden question. He did not think highly of Li Qi Ye. His talents were lacking to the point that he would not be accepted as a regular disciple here.

In the chamber earlier, the actions of Li Qi Ye caused others to feel that he was stupid. But the current Li Qi Ye who was calm and natural made this disciple feel perplexed inside, and didn't know whether Li Qi Ye was crazy or thought about everything beforehand.

"Senior Disciple, this Junior Disciple's name is Nan Huai Ren. I am a caretaker of the outer court."

This disciple quickly regained his wit, and answered Li Qi Ye.

"My name is Li Qi Ye."

Li Qi Ye gently nodded.

In the last million years, the ones who knew his true origin and name could be counted on the fingers of one's hands.

After Nan Huai Ren's departure, Li Qi Ye did not sit idly by. He began to clean up the yard and tidied up the whole mountain. After completing the task to an acceptable standard, the deserted mountain resembled more of a home.

Li Qi Ye did everything in a systematic and neat manner, slow but steady. If any accidental bypassers were to witness his cleaning actions, they would not believe that he was only thirteen years old.

After the tedious labor, the sky slowly darkened. Li Qi Ye felt tired and hungry; he slowly sat down in front of the villa. Taking in a deep breath, he took out the wooden stick that people used to move the ashes that are now placed by his waist and carefully observed it. His memories slowly came back to him, causing him to have a bitter smile.

The world believed that if an Immortal Emperor succeeded in carrying the Heaven's Will, they will truly become immortal. However, if that was the case, where were Immortal Emperor Min Ren, Immortal Emperor Tun Ri, and all the peerless cultivators from each era? Where was their end?

Li Qi Ye slowly regained his composure; he removed the dust and ash from the stick. The stick eventually revealed its real form. This was a stick spanning one meter; after being doused in fire for thousands of years, it still retained its original form without faults. In the eyes of other people, however, this was only a regular wooden stick without any magical elements.

Li Qi Ye whispered as he gently wiped the wooden stick:

"Serpent Punishing Stick!"

With this wooden stick in his hand, his memories caused an inexplicable emotion.

That day, when Min Ren was without the Heaven's Will, Li Qi Ye, as the master of this future Immortal Emperor, had taught a group of children that would be the loyal support for Min Ren. Since he wanted to groom them well, he specifically took the Serpent Punishing Stick from the Demon Forest.

Those teenagers that would stomp the Nine Worlds under their feets were all victims of this stick. After concluding their training, he left the stick there in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect; and there it has remained until now.

Gripping the stick tightly, Li Qi Ye immersed himself even deeper within his memories. Escaping the Heaven Demon Grotto was successful, and he finally regained his body and soul from the control of the Dark Crow.

But time was not merciful. Everyone who used to be his friends and families such as the Alchemy God, Immortal Emperor Xue Xi, Immortal Emperor Min Ren… even the illustrious Black Dragon King that survived three eras have all left this world.

At the beginning of the Desolate Era, he was only a young shepherd. In order to find a lost sheep, he went into the grotto and became imprisoned by the Heaven Demon Grotto, he was forced to follow the trajectory envisioned by his master in his crow body from era to era.

At that moment, Li Qi Ye was very scared. Unable to resist, he flew without rest across the Forbidden Burials, travelling across the Nine Lands, across the Nine Worlds… and in the end, he still had no choice but to return to the Heaven Demon Grotto.[2]

However, because of this, he had experienced the countless dangers and mysteries of the world. He had trodden through lands that even an unbeatable Virtuous Paragon would stray from. His willpower, basked by hardships throughout the eras, became unshakable.

From then on, he was unwilling to become an immortal slave to the Heaven Demon Grotto. He formulated a grand plan in order to cut off all the immortal spirit seals and formations within his soul.

In order to escape the Dark Crow, for his own freedom and to regain his body, he continuously led all the geniuses on the road of cultivation. The best of these young ones were able to fight on the peerless road, under the sky, to obtain the Heaven's Will.

But today, when Li Qi Ye had returned to his old body, and became a human again, all of his friends have soon left him.

Taking his last, deep breath to forget his pain, he has once again strengthened his resolve to destroy all obstacles and penetrate the souls of those in the Heaven Demon Grotto.

[1] Stupid people come together would be the meaning here, it doesn't translate as poetically in English; however, I don't know if we want to keep it in to keep the translation loyal

[2] Grammar here is weird, but I do like the repetition here, makes it more dramatic

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Chapter 4 : Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect (2)

The news of the new prime disciple had spread across the sect. The upper echelons were unhappy, but they could not do anything regarding this matter due to the Order. A useless person like Li Qi Ye was only lucky, that was all.

However, the third generation was extremely riled up. The prime disciple would have originally came from one of them. He would have to be the one with the highest contributions as well as passing all of the tests given by the elders.

Not only that, he would also be blessed with the sect master's teachings while he has exposure to emperor level techniques. Ultimately, he will most likely become the sect master in the future as well.

In the current situation, no one within the second generation of disciples was chosen. This meant that the Prime Disciple seat would definitely be chosen from the third generation disciples.

The ones that rebelled the most were the most gifted disciples with the highest aptitudes and origins; they felt cheated by Li Qi Ye. Thus, the commotion in the sect was chaotic.

"A mortal with a Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace has no right to be the prime disciple."

A few geniuses angrily declared.

"He is the biggest disgrace to our sect."

"Who can blame him for obtaining the Cleansing Incense Ancient Order; even the elders have accepted it."

A few of the older geniuses lamented, but they could only accept the situation.

"Hmmph, he is only the prime disciple for now; one without talents and strengths cannot compete for the sect master's seat. Who is to say that the prime disciple will be the next sect master for certain."

The most arrogant and confident disciples coldly spoke.

"If he doesn't know right from wrong, I wouldn't mind teaching him a little bit."

But even when Li Qi Ye really didn't have the qualification to compete for the sect master's seat, all the disciples still felt cheated inside when they have to call a young useless person like Li Qi Ye as oldest brother.

"Isn't the last remaining Cleansing Incense Ancient Order in the hand of San Gui Ye? How did it fall into the hand of that little brat?"

A disciple curiously asked.

The fact that San Gui Ye possessed the last order was not a big secret. The sect had always wanted to recover it, but San Gui Ye never agreed. This is why everyone was perplexed about Li Qi Ye owning it.

"Hehe, I heard that this brat has some wit, I just don't know how he fooled the perverted old man."

Another disciple coldly replied:

"I heard that when the elders ordered people to confirm this matter, San Gui Ye was having fun in the brothel. It could very well be that the brat invited him to play as much as he wants in order to trade for the ancient order."

Here, this disciple scowled, and felt nauseous.

"So he and that perverted old man was the same type."

Hearing this story, the other disciples contemptuously exclaimed.

Even though rumors had it that San Gui Ye was a child of a certain sect master, but the entire sect did not welcome such a perverted old man that only knew how to spend money and fooling around. Especially the third generation disciples, they did not respect him even a little bit. If it wasn't for the will of the last sect master, then he would have been kicked out of the sect.

If Li Qi Ye and San Gui Ye was the same type, then they would find Li Qi Ye even more distasteful.

But three days have not passed, and Li Qi Ye has not greet the ancestor, the sect received an invitation from the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

"What! The Nine Saint Demon Gate wants to test Li Qi Ye?"

After receiving the news, the six elders were shocked.

One of the elders became increasingly paranoid, lamentably:

"They've heard the news so quickly. He only became the prime disciple recently and they already want to test him."

Another elder continued:

"It seems like they want to escape the promise of the past. A trash like Li Qi Ye will never pass the test. That is why they want to force and expedite the issue."

"We no longer have a choice."

The first elder reluctantly spoke out.

"Right now, the Nine Saint Demon Gate rules an entire country. We cannot compare to them, and thus, we cannot negotiate anything differently."

His words caused everyone to fall into silence. In the beginning of the Emperor Era, their sect was invincible; their reputation intoxicated the Nine Worlds; their strength ruled an Ancient Kingdom; all sects submitted to their might. No existence in the entire world could have been a threat to the position of the old Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

However, as time passed, old glories were now gone. They no longer have the power to control a regular country, let alone an Ancient Kingdom. They lost the privilege of granting titles to their followers such as Named Hero or Royal Noble.

"What do we do now?"

Another elder asked.

All of the elders knew that a mortal like Li Qi Ye had no chance of passing the examination from the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

"Cure a dead horse into a living one, no other choice!"

Another elder answered.

"If he somehow succeeds, then we would be in-laws with the Nine Saint Demon Gate. If this was the case, then the Heavenly God Sect and the Heavenly Jewel Kingdom would not dare to look down upon us."

Towards such an impossible dream, the six elders could only forcefully laughed. But no matter what, they still had to try.

Li Qi Ye was waiting in his villa until the ancestor's ceremony, but Nan Huai Ren was approaching.

"Senior Disciple, the elders call for you in the grand chamber."

He quickly approached Li Qi Ye.

"Something major happened?"

Nan Huai Ren was a bit surprised but did not hide anything. He nodded and said:

"I will not lie to you, Honorable Brother. The Nine Saint Demon Gate sent us an invitation."

He paused for a second and glanced at Li Qi Ye, then continued on:

"I heard your fiancé wants to test your abilities."

"Nine Saint Demon Gate!"

Li Qi Ye suddenly remembered an old memory when he heard this name.

Nan Huai Ren thought Li Qi Ye did not know of this sect so he quickly explained.

"The Nine Saint Demon Gate is one of the biggest sects in the Grand Middle Territory. They rule over Old Ox Country, having the rights to grant titles. Our two sects used to have an amicable and close relationship together. The original Patriarch of Nine Saint used to be named Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon. He was the number one general under our Immortal Emperor Min Ren and followed him to sweep through the Nine Worlds. When we were ruling over an Ancient Kingdom, even the Nine Saint Demon Gate had to pay tribute to us."

"I have heard of the sect."

Li Qi Ye smiled gently. Of course he knew about the sect, and he had met Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon as well.

During the early time of the Emperors Era, because of Min Ren's Dao path, Li Qi Ye spent so much time and energy in order to entrap this demonic monster named Nine Saint; forcing him to be Min Ren's fate protector.

"Where did this fiancé come from?"

Li Qi Ye asked.

Nan Huai Ren answered:

"From the legends, when our Patriarch accepted the Heaven's Will and became the Immortal Emperor; Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon had a pact with us. If their prime descendant was a female while ours was a male, then we would become in-laws. "

Pausing for a moment, he sighed dejectedly:

"At that time, they were climbing high."

"I think that in the past, the Old Chicken had a female disciple."

After listening, Li Qi Ye quietly mumbled once again while remembering his past. However, he had forgotten about it after falling into his deep sleep. It was not a matter of great importance.

"What did you say, Great Brother?"

Nan Huai Ren inquired since he didn't hear it.

"Nothing. So their prime descendant right now is a woman?"

"It is known that between the two of our sects, there has not existed any in-law relationships for a long time. In this era, their prime descendant is indeed a woman."

He paused for a second to look at Li Qi Ye's expression:

"I also hear that their descendant, Li Shuang Yan, has an innate King Physique."

Hearing Nan Huai Ren's story, Li Qi Ye had understood everything. The Nine Saint Demon Gate naturally didn't want to marry a descendant with such aptitude and potential to a disciple in a declining sect.

"That makes things a little more interesting."

Li Qi Ye slightly chuckled.

Nan Huai Ren shockingly stared at the calm Li Qi Ye. He felt strange that an ordinary boy at the age of thirteen was able to face everything like a Royal Noble who had been through numerous trials.

If it was someone else, having heard Nan Huai Ren, they would become anxious and frightened. But Li Qi Ye was entirely opposite, and carried on his nonchalant attitude.

"Has Nan Huai Ren informed you of the current situation?"

The first elder coldly asked once Li Qi Ye entered the ancestral chamber.

Truth be told, the six elders definitely did not welcome a wastrel like Li Qi Ye. But because of the current situation, they hoped that he was not so useless and that he could luckily passed the trial of the Nine Saint Demon Gate. At this moment, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Saint truly need a giant monster such as the Nine Saint Demon Gate to be an in law. Even though the chance of success was extremely small, but they still wanted to try.

"Honorable Elder, I understand completely."

Li Qi Ye lightly nodded his head.

"Good! As long as you can pass the tribulation, we will handsomely reward you."

The first elder said with a cold voice, as if to mock Li Qi Ye's calm demeanor.

Li Qi Ye elegantly smiled and politely said:

"I am very willing to go to the trial, but I have three conditions."

"Impudent!"

One of the elders yelled out:

"You dare to negotiate in front of the elders?"

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Chapter 5 : The Fiancé (1)

Any other disciple would be afraid of facing the elders' wrath, but Li Qi Ye lightly scoffed:

"Elders, don't be angry. If I were to actually pass the trials, it would be a great contribution to the sect. The hardworking should be rewarded, no? It should be a given that I would have certain conditions given the dangerous task."

"Then wait until you have passed the trial, then we can discuss them!"

This elder was extremely unhappy before Li Qi Ye's attitude, so he roared his response.

"So be it!"

First Elder nodded his head, then continued:

"Don't you worry. As long as you pass the trial, you are free to select any cultivation methods with the exception of Heaven's Will Secret Laws and Immortal Emperor Merit Laws. I don't think the other elders would have any objections."

The six elders glanced at each other and contemplated the notion. If he indeed passes the trial, then the elder's suggestion is completely reasonable.

"The other conditions can wait until after the trial."

Li Qi Ye finally smiled.

"However, there is one condition that I must state beforehand, so that there will be ample time for preparation. Once I reach the Yun Physique level, I require a medicinal paste of the Saint grade.

After hearing Li Qi Ye's request, the faces of all six elders became sour; they collectively yelled out at the same time:

"How greedy can you be?"

Li Qi Ye pretended to not hear their loud yell and continued to slowly enunciate each word:

"Elders, the marriage between our two sects is a great matter as well as an enormous contribution. An Emperor grade medicinal paste might be precious, but I feel like it is a fair trade."

"Hmmph, you think a medicinal paste of the Saint grade is so easily obtainable!"

This elder was unhappy, and coldly scowled.

The first elder glanced at Li Qi Ye, and said:

If you are successful, then getting a Saint grade past isn't too outrageous. But right now, we cannot accommodate you because we lack certain integral efficacious medicines for the Saint paste recipe."

Looking at the elder's body language, Li Qi Ye secretly sighed in disappointment. He was thinking too highly of Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. In the past, its treasure trove was unlimited. It even contained Immortal grade paste; Saint paste was trivial in comparison.

"Fine, I will take one step back; I want the highest grade of King paste!"

"This I can accept, but the condition is that you will still have to be successful."

The elders glanced at each other, and finally the first elder conceded.

Li Qi Ye smiled at the first elder, and said:

"Outside of this, before going to the Nine Saint Demon Gate, I have another small request. Not knowing how dangerous it will be, I need to learn some techniques, and one or two defensive weapons."

"Finally, you are still a bit wily, and taking advantage of this situation for personal gains."

Elder Cao angrily spoke.

First elder actually sympathized, and nodded his head:

"How about this, in the inner sect there are techniques and weapons, you can pick one thing. What do other elders think?"

Even though the other elders didn't want to accommodate Li Qi Ye, but they still agreed with first elder. They knew the chance of success for Li Qi Ye was near zero. Even if they gave him weapon and technique, it wouldn't raise the probability, but more is better than none. At the very least it would raise the chance by a little bit.

"Elders are way too worried, I wouldn't be so greedy."

Li Qi Ye naturally knew the thoughts of the elders, and calmly smiled:

"I heard that we have a technique named "Invisible Dual Blades" that can be learned in a hurry. I want this technique as well as a pair of blades to accompany it. Would that be acceptable?"

The elders rolled their eyes from surprise after hearing Li Qi Ye. They originally thought that this greedy boy would ask for Emperor level techniques, but he wanted such a normal technique.

"Invisible Dual Blades eh?"

The first elder stroked his beard.

Another elder quickly responded:

"First Elder, that is only a martial technique; it is insufficient. In the world of cultivation, even the simplest merit law would outperform any martial arts."

"That is not a problem! Nan Huai Ren, bring the 'Invisible Dual Blades' to his peak and give him the best pair of dual blades."

The first elder was happy with this simple request. His opinion of Li Qi Ye decreased from Li Qi Ye's unwise decision. One would think that the sect would want to give all the assistance they could afford to help Li Qi Ye, but deep down inside, all the elders knew that no matter what techniques and weapons they give to him, completing the trial would still be impossible. They only aimed to minimize the loss of the sect.

"Do you have any other requests?"

Seeing Li Qi Ye not being greedy, an elder was satisfied, and generously asked.

"This little one does not need anything else at this moment."

Li Qi Ye humbly said.

"Good, go back and prepare, you shall depart in three days. After your return, you can complete the ancestral ceremony to ascend to your position."

First elder gravely said.

Of course, if he could come back alive that is. The elders had great doubts.

The technique and blades were brought to Li Qi Ye's peak immediately soon right after he had just returned.

He was satisfied with the dual Crescent Moon Blades. The blades' curves occasionally shone with sharpness. However, these were merely of Mortal grade and not fit for cultivators. No matter how sharp the edges were, it couldn't compare to magical armaments.

After Nan Huai Ren left, Li Qi Ye slowly read the "Invisible Dual Blades" technique. Every word and every phrase spoken by him would be replicated in his mind.

Back then, when he was still the Dark Crow, even though he had successfully escaped the Heaven Demon Grotto, but his situation was not stabilized. Sometimes he was still affected by the grotto. Whenever he felt like this, he immediately sealed himself and caused his soul to fall into a deep slumber.

He had spent many tortuous years in each eras to go into the most dangerous places, and had fell in the hands of many masters and had to surpass many tribulations. But because of this, he was able to see many merit laws, even Emperor merit laws and immortal methods.

Because he was afraid that one day he wouldn't be able to control himself and be summoned back to the Heaven Demon Grotto, so he always remove all of his memories regarding the methods and techniques he had learned, to avoid them falling into the hand of the grotto. However, the Medicine God and Immortal Emperor Xue Xi came up with a mysterious method that allowed Li Qi Ye to quickly understand the truths of these sovereign techniques the moment he saw them again.

Right now, everything that was pertinent to mastering the "Invisible Dual Blades" had been recalled. Taking a deep breath and comparing the manual in his head against the written version, he found that the technique was lacking a certain something; this worried him greatly.

In reality, it was normal for techniques such as the Invisible Dual Blades to be missing parts. In the end, it was not enough to reach the apex. In the eyes of cultivators, this was only a minor art. After millions of years, in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, no many people actually learned this technique.

Focusing his mind once again, Li Qi Ye finally understood the hidden truths behind the technique; he softly smiled.

Even though his Physique, Life Wheel, and Fate Palace were all of Mortal grade, his knowledge and willpower were above what all geniuses were capable of.

What was even more important was that when he was the Dark Crow, he underwent numerous tortures. There was a time when he was imprisoned for ten thousand years without seeing the sun, so his willpower was extremely fortified. Nothing could ever shake it, and no difficulties could ever make him take a step backward.

He gently patted the manual; his attempt at mastering the technique had awakened his memory of the past; a secret that no disciple knows in the current era.

That year, the young Min Ren used to practice the "Invisible Dual Blades" technique. Later, when he became an Immortal Emperor that ruled over the Nine Worlds, he reminisced about this technique. He once again cultivated with it, slowly perfecting the normal martial technique.

Of course, this normal technique was not comparable to the Emperor merit laws that he had created as well, let alone the Heaven's Will Secret Laws. Min Ren himself did not want his descendants to practice this technique, either. Thus, the technique had lied dormant in the library of the sect for millenniums. No one has understood the real illustrious truths behind the technique, moulded by an Immortal Emperor post ascension.

When Li Qi Ye saw Min Ren perfecting the technique; he teased him greatly. Even if this martial technique was cultivated to its apex and capable of slaying Royal Nobles, no one would want to use it. Normal cultivators can only see the external qualities, thus this martial technique resided in the darkness.

Even after being teased by Li Qi Ye, Immortal Emperor Min Ren only smiled. It was unexpected that Li Qi Ye actually guessed correctly about the fate of this martial arts.

Emptying his mind of unnecessary thoughts, he picked up the dual blades and started to practice. He was extremely strict with himself; he slowly swung each stroke within the manual; each swing required perfection before moving on.

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Chapter 6 – The Fiancé (2)

Although he understood the truths behind the technique, his body could not keep up with his orders. He demanded perfection, yet it was hard to reach.

But Li Qi Ye was not deterred. He kept on practicing the martial arts. He became more refined after each swing. After one night, he had practiced more than three hundred times and slowly grasped the profound truth. Slowly, each of his blades became more accurate.

He understood that if he wanted to completely decimate the Heaven Demon Grotto, he must increase his efforts by ten fold, no, hundreds of folds in order to achieve his goal. No one understood the Heaven Demon Grotto better than him in the current era.

Within these three days, Li Qi Ye still had not left his villa; he imprisoned himself in the inner sanctum to perfect his blades. There were too many uncertainties in life and he must be in top shape in order to combat any disasters.

Three days later, the journey to the Nine Saint Demon Gate had begun. Only Nan Huai Ren and a sect protector, with the surname of Mo, were coming along.

The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect has a total of six elders, twelve protectors, and thirty-six sectional leaders. Today, to visit a grand sect such as the Nine Saint Demon Gate with only three people, the highest being a mere protector; there were no words to describe it.

"Only us three?"

Before the departure, Li Qi Ye looked at the shameful members and asked.

Protector Mo was very frugal with his words; he was also the master of Nan Huai Ren. After he heard the question, he only glanced at Li Qi Ye without answering him.

Opposite of his master, Nan Huai Ren was a playful fellow; he coughed once in shame and opened his mouth:

"Big Brother, all of the elders are in secluded cultivation; they could not make the trip."

Li Qi Ye perked his lips and coldly declared:

"Secluded cultivation? They are only afraid of losing face. In the end, they believe I have no chance of passing the trial. My not passing is a small matter to them, but them being there and losing face would be the big deal, right?"

Nan Huai Ren couldn't say anything back and shamefully smiled. How could a mortal expect to pass the trial of an Emperor level sect? The elders thought the same; that was why they refused to go, since it would only have one result.

"Don't worry, Honorable Brother."

Nan Huai Ren kept up his positive attitude.

"The Nine Saint Demon Gate has kept its distance from us in recent times; that is why the elders didn't want to go and create unnecessary conflict."

"Hmmph, it is only the Nine Saint Demon Gate; can't reach the apex.[1] In that era, even if Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon was still alive, they would still have to bow down to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect."

Protector Mo could only ignore Li Qi Ye's arrogance, not bothering to throw out a response.

Nan Huai Ren was afraid that Li Qi Ye would say even more outrageous things, so he interrupted:

"Older Brother, this is my master, a protector of the sect."

"Please take care of me on this trip."

Li Qi Ye bowed his head with just the right amount of courtesy and respect. Not too forced, yet not too weak.

Protector Mo glanced at him once again and said:

"Let us go, now."

Protector Mo was one of the older protectors; his cultivation level was above average. However, he does not know how to interact socially with others. Thus, his position in the sect was quite low relative to the other protectors. Otherwise, he would not be a part of this great expedition.

The upper echelons of the sect knew that this trip would become a comedic play and Li Qi Ye was the main character. If the audience was not happy, death might be inevitable, and that is another reason why everyone hid away from the trip.

Protector Mo also thought that there would be no positive results coming out of this trip, and that was why his mood has been even more sour than normal.

The long trip was filled with silence until they reached the grand temple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. The grand temple was huge, and it could contain ten thousand people. Looking through all of the Grand Middle Territory, it would be difficult to find a comparable temple.

The jade colored temple was extremely ancient; it was built by heavenly stones and crystals. Above were calligraphy carved by Immortal Emperor Min Ren. The words exuded a courageous aura, deep beyond fathom; each word and each phrase felt as if it could erase existence itself. From this grand temple, one could appreciate the old power of the dying sect.

This temple was the starting point for all of the conquests made by the great Emperor. Min Ren conducted ceremonies here before conducting his expeditions that would span the whole Nine Worlds. Only an Immortal Emperor sect could possess this temple.

"Bang…"

As the entrance was opened, a gateway could be seen standing inside. Colored and tempered by god crystals, the hulk was covered by empty holes and Immortal Emperor carvings. The empty holes were there to be filled with meteoric crystals.

Meteoric crystals are formed by the natural spiritual power of heaven and earth; the very essence of what makes cultivation possible. Its main purpose was to operate gateways in order to traverse far distances. The warping distance was predicated by the quantity and quality of the meteoric crystals.

Unfortunately, the current gateway only has a few meteoric crystals inside. Once again, Li Qi Ye was saddened by how far the sect had fallen. In the past, this gateway, with an abundance of crystals, had brought many armies to far away places in the Nine Worlds.

They entered the gateway and in the blink of an eye, they warped to a different location.

The Grand Middle Territory was huge, spanning billions of miles. There were countless sects spanning across fifteen countries. However, there were gigantic monsters like Kingdoms and Ancient Kingdoms that spanned billions of miles by themselves.

If one wanted to cross a country by flying, unless he was an Enlightened Being or a Heavenly King, it would take many years. Any Named Hero or Royal Noble would be wise enough to not attempt this feat. Plus, the Grand Middle Territory was only one part of the Mortal Emperor World.

The Mortal Emperor World was also known as the Emperor Boundary or Emperor Country, and consisted of five different parts. In the north lies the Limitless Land; the south has the Chained Earth; the east forms the Hundred Cities; the west contains the Desolate Wasteland; and the middle was the Grand Middle Territory.

"Bang…"

Li Qi Ye and his companions arrived at the gateway of the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

As they stepped out, they felt that the natural spirit essence was denser than any place before. As far as the eyes could see, this was truly a heavenly sect.

The location of the Nine Saint Demon Gate spanned for millions of miles; it was filled with mountains and rivers, with majestic waterfalls and heavenly saint trees that could pierce the heavens, and with marble palaces floating and hiding in the clouds as far as the eyes could see. At the deepest part, you could see penetrating auras that shone radiantly across the land. One would believe that the origin of those aura lies a shocking heavenly treasure.

This was the picture of a powerful sect. With this atmosphere and location, no wonder it could rule over a country. In comparison, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect was akin to a destitute old man at the end of his life.

"I see that it is Older Brother Mo, long time no see."

When the three of them left the gateway, there was an older man leading his disciples for the welcoming party.

The man was a sectional leader of their sect. His last name was Fu; he was the owner of a cold and stoic face. His eyes contained a powerful gaze, and his body radiated a shining aura; his natural disposition was one that could cause fear in weaker souls.

Even though he was only a sectional leader, he possessed the strength of a Named Hero, that was evident by the aura exuded from his body. In the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, only an elder would be eligible for the Named Hero qualification.

"Is this your prime disciple?"

"That is correct, Li Qi Ye is the prime disciple of my sect."

Protector Mo smiled bitterly. The body and talents of Li Qi Ye was nothing to be proud of.

"The trial, it is but a friendly competition. Brother Mo does not have to worry about it."

Sectional Leader Fu showed a gentle smile.

"Only a trial, can't reach the peak."[2]

Li Qi Ye smiled back at Sectional Leader Fu and elegantly expressed his feelings.

Sectional Leader Fu ignored Li Qi Ye's sly remark and conversed with Protector Mo instead:

"Brother Mo, please follow me."

In his mind, a Named Hero arguing with a junior like Li Qi Ye would be unbecoming for a man of his status.

Protector Mo, on the other hand, glared angrily at Li Qi Ye.

[1] This is a saying Li Qi Ye and other people in this novel love to say, I think the meaning is literal enough to keep

[2] He uses it again here to imply that a trial is nothing to him

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Chapter 7 : Nine Saint Demon Gate (1)

Sectional Leader Fu led the three into a medium-sized meeting chamber. Such a room was only used for entertaining guests without great importance. For an event as influential as the marriage proposal between the two sects, the Nine Saint Demon Gate was letting a mere leader class to do the negotiation. Not only that, they used the courtesy procedure befitting the greeting of normal guests which showed that they did not place heavy emphasis on the event.

After settling the guests into their resting area, Sectional Leader Fu used flowery language without sincerity and quickly left. Protector Mo was mentally ready for the lack of hospitality, so he was not angry, merely solemn.

Sectional Leader Fu headed straight into the inner sanctuary of his sect. Approaching an ancient temple, he met an elder. The elder was floating in the air; a heavenly halo surrounded his head. While it rotated non-stop, each strand of the world's truths in physical form was visible to the eyes and covered his body; nothing was comparable to his pressure. A god was, seemingly, amongst us.

"How is the prime disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect?"

The thunderous voice of this elder struck the surrounding, but this voice that instilled fear into the heart could only be heard within the temple.

Sectional Leader Fu, when outside, was extremely arrogant with his title of Named Hero. However, right now, he could only quiver in fear. He got down on his knees and spoke:

"Dear Elder, it was but an ant, merely a mortal, an ignorant young brat that is not worthy of a discussion."

"I see, take your leave."

The thunderous voice rung again.

Sectional Leader Fu politely bowed one more time and carefully left the temple. His body was sweaty after leaving. He was only a sectional leader; he did not have the qualification nor status to meet an elder. Even a Royal Noble would need to be summoned before they can have the honor.

"Picking a mortal with a Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace to be the prime disciple; there is no saving the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect."

After Sectional Leader Fu left, the elder started to speak with someone else in the empty temple.

"It is truly a shame for the emperor techniques of Immortal Emperor Min Ren; there is a good chance that they still reside in that sect."

A mysterious and noble voice rang through the air.

The elder continued.

"Your Majesty, as long as the techniques remain there, it is only a matter of time until we can obtain them. That mortal is not worthy of our prime descendant."

The mysterious voice remained silent; same with the elder. If there were spectators, they would be shocked at the appearance of the Demon King. One has to know that the Demon King was an extremely dangerous character.

Legend has it that his origin and true form were extremely formidable. The sect, led by him, became increasingly radiant; nothing could shake his tyrannical rule. Within Old Ox Country, no one dared to oppose his heavenly grasp.

Protector Mo was still sitting there silently. Nan Huai Ren had wittingly escaped the torturous room with the uncomfortable atmosphere.

Li Qi Ye had left for his own room. He started to practice the "Invisible Dual Blades" technique instantly, not wasting a second. He wanted the technique ingrained into his body and mind.

Over the years, Li Qi Ye had learned that it is one thing to understand the illustrious truths behind a technique, but another to reach the apex; and actually utilizing them was yet another. Even a peerless genius with true knowledge of Immortal Emperor merit laws could not perform them without an excruciating level of practice.

"Whoosh, whoosh, wooooshh…"

The two blades left Li Qi Ye's hands and gracefully traversed the air like a pair of butterfly's wings. They intersected each other multiple times and ultimately returned to Li Qi Ye's hands. He had practiced this particular move so many times, but it still contained flaws.

"What impeccable blade plays; Senior Disciple is so diligent. I feel ashamed comparing myself to your great efforts."

At this second, Nan Huai Ren came into the room; there was another teen next to his side.

Nan Huai Ren couldn't help but sigh in regret. He truly respected Li Qi Ye's earnest efforts. It was truly unfortunate that his innate talents were so underwhelming.

"To reach the apex, one must never stop self-improvement."

Li Qi Ye sheathed his blades. Although sweaty and tired, his posture and expression remain at ease.

Nan Huai Ren respectfully smiled.

"I will remember these words and will strive to improve myself as well."

Then he started to introduce the young man standing next to him.

"This is Big Brother Zhang, a good friend of mine."

Nan Huai Ren had good talents, but he could not be considered a genius. However, he was different from his master. His social capability made his network wide, and he had friends everywhere.

This Disciple Zhang was very similar, but in his eyes, a mortal like Li Qi Ye was not worthy of respect. He nodded his head toward Li Qi Ye because of his relationship with Nan Huai Ren. To him, whatever martial techniques practiced by Li Qi Ye were meaningless.

"This is the first time Senior Disciple visits the Nine Saint Demon Gate, how about we walk around so that you can be accustomed to the scenery?"

Li Qi Ye suddenly remembered an event, so he smiled and responds.

"Sure."

Nan Huai Ren turned around to the disciple named Zhang.

"Brother Zhang, this time we will have to impose upon you."

"Brother Nan, you are too reserved!"

Disciple Zhang had no choice but to nod his head. Unwilling as he may be, he did not want to strain their friendship. He had no desire of taking the scenic route with Li Qi Ye.

In reality, the Nine Saint Demon Gate was the host; they should be taking Li Qi Ye around in order to positively promote their relationship. However, since they did not consider Li Qi Ye to be worthy, all courtesy and rules were set aside.

Fellow Zhang led them around the premise while he only made conversation with Nan Huai Ren. He treated Li Qi Ye like an invisible man. Their presence caused a lot of whispers amongst the disciples.

"Isn't that the prime disciple of that old sect?"

In the distance, a disciple frowned from seeing that Li Qi Ye was only a mortal.

Another disciple in the sect, with scorn in his expression, laughed:

"Heh, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect is only a second rate establishment, and even a mortal can be the prime disciple. This position has become worthless."

"A mortal wanting to marry Senior Li? Rotten chopsticks wanting a gold bowl; why not look into the mirror to see how lowly you are?"[1]

Li Shuang Yan was the prime descendant of the Nine Saint Demon Gate. Not only was she gifted in her talents, but she was also extremely beautiful. Countless young talents in the sect have her as their secret desire; the numerous geniuses from other places that seek to court her could form a line from one edge of the nation to the other. The one thing they all have in common, though, was wanting to spit onto Li Qi Ye's face for being so shameless.

Fellow Zhang was even more embarrassed; he could see the hostile eyes from his fellow disciples. He started to walk faster to maintain a distance from Li Qi Ye, eventually leaving him behind. However, Li Qi Ye seemed to pay no mind to his actions. He continued with his own pace in a calm and carefree manner as he absorbed the heavenly scenery of the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

"Senior Disciple, you have to be careful. Many people are courting your fiancé, and they will not hesitate to cause trouble for you."

Nan Huai Ren earnestly reminded Li Qi Ye.

"It is only a girl, there is no need for such commotion."

Li Qi Ye calmly answered. He had seen many country-destroying beauties. Thus, he does not truly keep his potential fiancé in mind; it was only a minor matter in his head.[2]

Unknowingly, they reached the training ground of the sect. This was a place where all of the disciples could enter. Once one was inside, they truly felt tiny compared to the gigantic battle stage; like an ant in the middle of a boundless ground.

[1] The former sentence is a Chinese proverb, similar to how a frog wants to eat the swan

[2] Country-destroying is a phrase in Chinese to describe beautiful women that are so alluring that countries fall trying to win their favors, it might sound out of place, but I think it keeps some of the original flavor of the author

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Chapter 8 : Nine Saint Demon Gate (2)

The battle stage consisted of huge meteoric stones. Each stone was encrypted with the words of many Virtuous Paragons; mysterious and powerful energy was exerted from them continuously. It was this energy that protected the battle stage, rendering it impervious to any damage by the contestants.

"A battle stage of the Virtuous Paragon level!"

Even though this was not his first time witnessing it, the battle stage still shook Nan Huai Ren's feelings with awe.

Fellow Zhang was even more proud and started to brag.

"This battle stage was created by our Great Elder; it can even withstand the destructive power from multiple Virtuous Paragons."

"In the past, our Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect also had a battle stage…"

Nan Huai Ren couldn't help but mumble in a low volume.

The truth was, the Cleaning Incense Ancient Sect also had a battle stage, but it was not of the Virtuous Paragon level. Some say that it was nearly Immortal Emperor level; additionally, it could withstand a fight between Heavenly Kings as well as Immortal Emperors. It was found by Immortal Emperor Min Ren in the depths of an unknown space.

It was unfortunate that no one knew why this battle stage was sealed completely. From then on, no one was able to enter the arena.

"Great Four Stone Golems!"

Li Qi Ye was there, but he missed the conversation completely. His eyes were focused on the four gigantic statues located at the four ends of the arena.

Each of them towered over one hundred yards. All of them had different expressions, yet they were all very realistic. Carved from the hands of a renowned expert with a blade technique that was very natural and perfect.

This is the thing he wanted to see the most. After the death of Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon, he had never visited this sect. It was surprising to see the four statues after all these years.

When Nan Huai Ren and Fellow Zhang were chatting, no one noticed Li Qi Ye. A moment later, Fellow Zhang finally saw Li Qi Ye's current action; he raised his eyebrows and asked:

"What is this idiot doing?"

Nan Huai Ren saw that Li Qi Ye was trying to climb on top of the eastern statue; however, because of his weak cultivation level, he couldn't make it to the top.

Right now there were many students surrounding the battle stage; they watched him struggle like a village boy that visited the capital for the first time. Laughter erupt and jeers filled the arena.

Nan Huai Ren was so embarrassed that he wanted to dig a hole and hide in it forever. He could not see what was special about these four statues that was driving Li Qi Ye's action.

Li Qi Ye signaled for Nan Huai Ren to come over. He cannot say no to the prime disciple, especially when the person is being singled out by an entire sect. He dejectedly walked over to Li Qi Ye under the scrutinizing gazes of all the disciples.

"This statue is too high, take me up there."

Li Qi Ye calmly commanded.

"Ah?!"

Nan Huai Ren shouted then became silent. He was silently questioning whether Li Qi Ye had become insane. Climbing up the statue, in front of all of the Nine Saint Demon Gate disciples, this was a great slap to their faces.

"Are you going to take me up or do you want to continue watching my monkey show?"

Li Qi Ye nonchalantly commented, it was as if all of this had nothing to do with him.

Without any other options, Nan Huai Ren grabbed Li Qi Ye and jumped, in one swoop, to the top of the statue.

Li Qi Ye sat on the shoulder of the statue; he stared into the far distance leisurely and absorbed the heavens in front of his eyes.

Nan Huai Ren wasn't quite as thick as Li Qi Ye. He immediately jumped down then waited at the bottom of the statue. He stood there, waiting, in case something did happen; he simply couldn't just abandon his fellow disciple.

Fellow Zhang, however, did not want to stand there for a second longer; he immediately left without a departing salutation.

"Does he think that he is a big shot; sitting on top of the statue?"

"This country bumpkin is way too rude!"

Ignoring the comments spewed by the disciples of the Nine Saint Demon Gate, Li Qi Ye remained sitting on the statue's shoulder; he whispered to it as if he was having a conversation with it.

The crazy, nonsensical actions of Li Qi Ye caused the spectators to question his, and their own, sanity. This was truly an idiot without fear. No one attempted to stop him, however; they felt that it was below them to interfere with a mad man's muse.

Eventually, Li Qi Ye seemed to have become bored of sitting. He once again waved his hands to signal Nan Huai Ren. Like a boulder that had been lifted off his shoulder, Nan Huai Ren was so relieved that this madness had come to an end and he brought Li Qi Ye down to the floor.

"Dear Senior, the sun has set. Shall we go back and rest?"

Nan Huai Ren was praying with all of his heart that this prime disciple could spare him from further embarrassment. Who knew what other things he would do if the trip was to be continued.

Seeing the poor facial expression of Nan Huai Ren that was like a dead puppy, Li Qi Ye chuckled and nodded his head in agreement.

"Your mother!"

A disciple couldn't help but yell out after seeing Li Qi Ye's devilish grin.

"The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect is a third rate sect. A toad wants to eat the meat of a swan? I spit! A black dumb turtle has the nerves to court our senior."[1]

Seeing that someone was challenging him directly, Li Qi Ye slowly turned around and said:

"Court your senior? Don't think too highly of yourselves. Even if either a heavenly angel or godly fairies wanted to marry me, they would have to pray for my acceptance. Your senior? It is a long line until it is her turn.

"Your mother, you are tiring of living…"

All of the male disciples were having an uproar after hearing those shameless words.

"Calm down, calm down, everyone should value peace and prosperity!"

The current situation chilled Nan Huai Ren down to his spine; he immediately took Li Qi Ye and left. He could not leave this crazy guy outside for a second longer.

After reaching their guest house safely, Nan Huai Ren cried:

"Honorable Senior, please! This isn't a place where we can say and do whatever we wish. Take a step back and appreciate the high sky and deep sea. Please keep yourself under control."

"Hold back?"

Li Qi Ye nonchalantly proclaimed:

"A general shall stop an incoming army, a dam will deter the incoming current!"[2]

Nan Huai Ren froze; taking care of someone like Li Qi Ye was akin to finding trouble for oneself. He was truly regretting taking this mission to go to the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

After the events at the battle stage, many of the Nine Heaven Demon Gate disciples were outraged. Du Yuan Guang was one of those who truly wanted to kill Li Qi Ye. He was an outer disciple, but his innate talents were above average; thus, many referred to him as the "Little Genius". He had only joined the sect for five years, but he already reached the pinnacle stage of Provisional Palace. As long as he could successfully pass this year's examination, he could become an inner disciple.

Du Yuan Guang had a strong crush for Li Shuang Yan. During his entrance examination to the sect, she was one of the main organizers. When he saw her for the first time, he was smitten. He also thought that she recognized his skills and talents since she accepted him.

He had great confidence in his ability and wished for her to become his Dao partner. Li Qi Ye being there, naturally, became a thorn in his eyes.

"This mortal does not know his own limits. If I don't teach him a little lesson, he would continue to think he is above the heaven and earth."

Du Yuan Guang's eyes revealed his killing intent as he screamed out loud.

[1] I spit is an expression where the doer simulates the sound of spitting without actually spitting. It is to show contempt

[2] This is another Chinese proverb. It tells someone to not worry, almost like que sera sera. It sounds really good in Chinese since it only consists of 8 words; 4 for each prose with the same tonal structure. They also rhyme as well as having the same parallel meanings for each of the words' counterparts

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Chapter 9 : Brutal (1)

The next day, Li Qi Ye woke up and immediately asked if Nan Huai Ren wanted to go on another sight-seeing trip. He wanted to see if there was anything left from his era that were still around.

Nan Huai Ren did not want to go at all. It didn't matter whether Li Qi Ye was crazy or stupid, his intuition told him that Li Qi Ye would definitely cause trouble; going with him was simply masochistic.

Unfortunately, Li Qi Ye already turned around and started to go on his trip. Nan Huai Ren had no choice but to follow him. The most important task during this trip was the marriage trial. If something actually happened to Li Qi Ye, he wouldn't be able to escape unscathed.

However, not long after their departure, they were surrounded by Du Yuan Guang and his outer disciple friends. These disciples didn't see eye-to-eye with Li Qi Ye. With Du Yuan Guang leading the mantle, it was a wondrous opportunity to teach this arrogant bastard a lesson.

"Ah, it is Brother Du, I have heard of your great reputation for a long time now."

Nan Huai Ren knew that trouble was coming, but he still kept his calm and friendliness.

Du Yuan Guang only gave Nan Huai Ren a short glance and said:

"Nan Huai Ren, you don't have any business here. Move to the side or we'll deal with you as well."

Nan Huai Ren's expression darkened, but he knew that the strong eats the weak. Thus, he bowed slightly and asked:

"Brother Du, what is the meaning of this?"

Du Yuan Guang completely ignored Nan Huai Ren this time around. He sent an icy cold glare toward Li Qi Ye that was filled with killing intent.

Li Qi Ye, elegant and poised as always, stepped up toward Du Yuan Guang and said:

"A smart dog does not block the road; if you don't want to be a dog, then get out of the way."

After he heard this, Nan Huai Ren knew that everything was ruined. Especially when he saw the thirst for blood in Du Yuan Guang's eyes, he knew this would not end without incident.

An angry disciple yelled out:

"Do you not want to live? The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect no longer has the qualifications to be considered an Immortal Emperor lineage. You dare to jump around like a clown in front of us? A mere ant dares to be disrespectful?"

Li Qi Ye was ready to retort but Nan Huai Ren quickly stopped him and whispered:

"Forget about it, Senior Brother. Don't worry about them. Du Yuan Guang is an outer disciple that is getting a lot of attention. He is also the last disciple of Protector Hua. If he passes the yearly examination, he would immediately become an inner disciple."

Nan Huai Ren's intention was to remind Li Qi Ye that they could not afford to antagonize someone like Du Yuan Guang. He had the support of a protector from the Nine Saint Demon Gate. A protector position in this sect has a higher standing than an elder position in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

Du Yuan Guang did not make a move, he only coldly said:

"We, the Nine Saint Demon Gate, rule over Old Ox country. Even if you are from a small sect, you are still a guest; we would still like to treat you with the required courtesy befitting of our status. However, recently, one of my brothers has lost a treasure; this is not a common occurrence in our honorable sect."

Nan Huai Ren's complexion became gray. He panicked:

"Brother Du, what is the meaning of your words?"

Du Yuan Guang glanced over to Li Qi Ye and said:

"In the last two days, there were no other guests beside the people from your sect."

Du Yuan Guang clearly implied that the thief was from the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. This matter did not only affect one person because it also greatly influences the reputation of an entire sect. Even someone as wily as Nan Huai Ren couldn't help but show an ugly expression.

"Brother Du, please watch what you say!"

Nan Huai Ren wanted to treat this matter diplomatically, but it now concerned the reputation of his own sect. He would not stand for such an insult.

"Watch what I say? Your sect is desolate and poor like a beggar; who could guarantee that a thief had not infiltrated your sect? Your prime disciple is just a piece of trash; to say that your sect recruited thieves would not be unreasonable."

Nan Huai Ren's face became red with anger. As a person who truly cared for his sect, he could not stand for this mockery.

"Brother Du, we want to meet with Sectional Leader Fu of your sect. No matter what happens, we demand an answer from your sect regarding this baseless accusation."

Du Yuan Guang exploded in laughter for ten seconds then confidently replied:

"Meet Sectional Leader Fu? Nan Huai Ren, it is not like I don't want to reserve some dignity for you, but you and this trash, alone, do not have the qualification to invoke a meeting with Sectional Leader Fu. Our sectional leaders are capable enough to obtain the title of Named Hero. It is unknown whether your elders are capable of the same task. Maybe your elders are qualified to meet with Sectional Leader Fu, but you and that trash? Don't even think about it."

After he finished his speech, Du Yuan Guang stared coldly at Li Qi Ye. The other disciples clapped in agreement and started to once again taunt Li Qi Ye with nasty words.

Nan Huai Ren was shaking with rage, but Li Qi Ye still maintained his composure and carefully retorted.

"Whether this whole incident is your planning, the leader, or even your protector, it does not matter to me. Little Du, simply put, it is because you are smitten with your senior; I think her name was Li Shuang Yan? Even though I have never seen her before, you guys are too petty. Your prime descendant, Li Shuang Yan, and her engagement with me is merely a one-sided affair. Because I respect your sect's current status, I would consider having her as a maid."

"And as for you?"

Li Qi Ye continued:

"You are so naive. If your goddess has such talents, she wouldn't have you in her eyes. I already don't care for her, why would you try to compete with me for her like a fool? Get out of the way; you should find a place with a nice spot of shade and take a break to cool off your hot head."

"You bastard! If you want to die so much, then I'll show you to your death!"

Du Yuan Guang, enraged by those words, summoned his sword as well as his aura.

"Du Yuan Guang, if you want to fight, I will reciprocate."

Having witnessed Li Qi Ye's bravery, Nan Huai Ren, who was burning with rage, felt a lot better. However, he knew that Li Qi Ye had never cultivated before, so he immediately stood guard in front of him.

"Fine, I will take care of you first, then I'll kill the little bastard!"

Fiery anger exploded from his eyes. To him, Li Shuang Yan was an untouchable goddess, yet Li Qi Ye dared to insult her.

Li Qi Ye slowly pushed Nan Huai Ren back, and he calmly said:

"Hey Huai Ren, if someone wants to take my life, then I'll be the one to put an end to him. You should stand back and watch."

"Good! Good! Excellent!"

Du Yuan Guang was no longer angry but bursting out in laughter:

"This is the funniest thing I have ever heard. A piece of trash like you wants to kill someone who is at the Provisional Palace stage, like me? So be it, I will give you a chance to fight!"

Knowing that he was a mortal, they knew he could not use any merit laws; the other disciples pitied Li Qi Ye.

"Martial techniques versus merit laws? You don't even know the basics, yet your arrogance is through the sky. It is such a pity."

Li Qi Ye could not be bothered by those comments. He exclaimed:

"That is fine, everyone can witness this battle."

He walked towards the battle stage.

"You can't!"

Nan Huai Ren was filled with fear. He grabbed Li Qi Ye and said:

"Senior! This is impossible! Du Yuan Guang has reached the pinnacle of the Provisional Palace stage. You cannot be his match."

"It is fine. He is only at Provisional Palace and not at Royal Noble! However, even if a Royal Noble in the Nine Saint Demon Gate dares to mess with me; depending on my mood, I would mince him into tiny pieces too."

Li Qi Ye smirked lightly, then pushed Nan Huai Ren away.

Nan Huai Ren's head started to hurt. His first thought was that his senior had become senile. Li Qi Ye had only joined the sect for a few days; he has not begun to practice even the most basic of cultivation techniques. He only had access to the "Invisible Dual Blades" martial technique.

A person who only practiced martial arts could not fight against a cultivator. Martial techniques, when compared to a merit law, was like heaven and earth; not to mention Du Yuan Guang was also an expert in the Provisional Palace stage.

Nan Huai Ren regained his reasoning and he immediately went to find his master, Protector Mo. He knew; if this fight happened, only death would be the result.

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Chapter 10 : Brutal (2)

The news about Li Qi Ye and Du Yuan Guang's fight was intentionally spread by the disciples of the Nine Saint Demon Gate; word of this quickly traveled through the whole sect.

Du Yuan Guang possessed considerable influence and popularity within the sect for reaching Provision Palace stage in five years after he was admitted. Here, he was considered a genius; at the current Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, he would be a genius amongst geniuses.

Even the seniors who heard about this challenge were surprised.

"Challenging Du Yuan Guang?"

"He is the inheriting disciple of Protector Hua. Even though his Golden Wolf Physique has only reached Houtian, it is still a formidable type. What is the current cultivation level of the prime disciple of Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect?"

Some of the disciples who had never heard of Li Qi Ye were quite intrigued.

"Ha, Senior Sheng worries too much! That sect is average at best and without any experts. Their prime disciple is a piece of trash. Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace. He had only joined the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect for two days. He had only practiced martial techniques; even the most elementary merit laws eluded him."

A disciple mockingly answered.

After hearing this news, the seniors who didn't know Li Qi Ye before became even more perplexed. A martial artist challenging a cultivator? He must be tired of living!

"This is just like the young deer that's not scared of a tiger, how sad!"[1]

A lot of the seniors lost their interest because they believed the fight would end after a single move.

Du Yuan Guang only needed one swing and everything would be finished.

This news also reached the ears of a few sectional leaders and protectors. They shook their heads while they contemplated about the implications.

One of the protectors spoke up in an aloof and cold manner.

"Maybe this is a blessing in disguise. Killing one trash isn't something to be proud about, however, if the idiotic Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect's juniors wish to challenge us, let this be a lesson."

This comment caused some protectors and sectional leaders to knit their eyebrows. It was still an Immortal Emperor sect after all. Currently, it still had Emperor level cultivation methods and, more importantly, the inheritance of the Immortal Emperor Min Ren. Everyone has been watching that sect like a hungry tiger, waiting for the right moment to strike.

Realistically, the Nine Saint Demon Gate only had to mobilize their protectors in order to rob the Emperor merit laws, but the current Demon King had never revealed his thoughts about the topic. This caused the upper echelons to remain silent as well. If only the Demon King would give the order, someone would immediately travel and destroy the sect right away, with zero hesitation.

While the upper echelons were still pondering, Li Qi Ye was standing on top of the battle stage. There was quite a crowd gathered for this event. They just wanted to see what kind of torture methods would be employed by Du Yuan Guang.

When Du Yuan Guang stepped onto the battle stage, a disciple loudly yelled:

"Senior Du, use one sword swing to chop off his head!"

Another chimed in:

"One sword strike is too merciful towards him. He dared to insult Senior Li and our sect; you have to flay him piece by piece."

A senior opened his mouth:

"Death is the only result for insulting our sect. Junior Du, do not rush. Slice off his hands and feet but do not kill him. Wait for the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect to come and apologize for him. Let the whole Grand Middle Territory, no, even the whole Mortal Emperor World know the consequences of opposing us."

On the battle stage, Li Qi Ye stared at Du Yuan Guang and teased:

"The Nine Saint Demon Gate's disciples can only use words? You guys are indeed experts at using your mouths."

"Idiotic animal, I only need one sword strike to remove your head from your body."

Cold as ice, Du Yuan Guang lifted his chin and looked down on his opponent.

"If you want to fight then fight, so much time wasted!"

Li Qi Ye casually responded. His left hand griped his blade tightly. He lifted it horizontally and pointed the edge towards Du Yuan Guang and proclaimed:

"Make your move."

"Die!"

Infuriated by Li Qi Ye's fearless attitude, Du Yuan Guang made his move. A sword strike that felt like it could destroy the surrounding space lashed out; it was as fast as lightning. The energy aura sharply leapt towards the heart of Li Qi Ye, which was accompanied by the endless anger of Du Yuan Guang.

Li Qi Ye did not take a step back; he instead moved forward. With each step he took, the blade in his left hand and moved like a heavenly serpent. It quickly deflected the sword technique to the side.

A sharp noise, indicating successful contact with the flesh, filled the arena; Du Yuan Guang's sword — although it did not hit Li Qi Ye's heart — had pierced his left shoulder.

"Insect…"

Du Yuan Guang smirked until he saw that, as his sword was still in Li Qi Ye's left shoulder, his opponent's right hand started moving. In the blink of an eye, even Du Yuan Guang did not see the movement of Li Qi Ye's blade.

"Good…"

The blade strike was too swift; it invoked mysterious truths that nothing else could compare to. No one saw the trajectory of the move. The Nine Saint Demon Gate's disciples were cheering loudly when they saw Du Yuan Guang's sword connect.

However…

The same second, when the sword met the left shoulder, Nan Huai Ren and Protector Mo finally arrived. Protector Mo saw the sword's connection and yelled out:

"Please lower your sword and spare him!"

One second later, blood dripped down from the throat of Du Yuan Guang. Then all of a sudden, it splurted out as his body slowly fell to the ground. Mercilessly, Li Qi Ye had thrown both of his blades using the "Invisible Dual Blades" technique.

"Phap… Phap…"

Du Yuan Guang's body was crossed by the path of the two blades as they magically intersected each other; dividing his body into five pieces before it hit the ground completely. Blood filled the arena.

Du Yuan Guang's eyes flashed hints of bewilderment and regrets. He did not understand how he had fallen. How would he know that the technique of Li Qi Ye was honed by Immortal Emperor Min Ren himself. Although it could not compare to Emperor level merit laws, a martial technique sharpened by an Immortal Emperor could not be underestimated.

The more frightening fact was that Li Qi Ye grasped the mysterious truths of this technique. From the ancient era until now; only the Emperor and Li Qi Ye have fully understood the principles behind the move. At this level, this technique could even slay a Royal Noble.

Du Yuan Guang went into the match while underestimating his opponent; he did not have any defense ready. There was no way he could dodge the peerless strike. Li Qi Ye traded his left shoulder in order to execute this move.

Right now, the whole battle stage was completely silent. The laughters and jeers disappeared. It seemed like time had froze.

Nan Huai Ren's jaws dropped to the floor. He hurried here in order to save Li Qi Ye, but he couldn't imagine that Li Qi Ye only needed one slash to dismember his opponent's body.

Li Qi Ye was slowly removing the magical sword from his shoulder. The noise of the sword cutting against his bone shrieked softly, but Li Qi Ye showed no emotion or pain. He had experienced much worse pains in the past. He threw the sword away and stepped outside of the ring. He looked around and saw the crowd. Showing a dejected and regretful expression, he said:

"It seems like my blade technique is still missing something; I had to trade a strike, and now, I am hurt."

Remembering what had just occurred, Nan Huai Ren's jaws was still hugging the floor. It wouldn't be surprising for it to be dislocated after staying agape for so long. One blade to kill a cultivator and he was pretending to be sad? This fella was shameless!

As for the Nine Saint Demon Gate's disciples, their souls had not yet returned to their bodies. Du Yuan Guang was a genius amongst his peers, but he was instantly mutilated by his opponent!

Protector Mo was the first to regain his composure. He immediately covered Li Qi Ye's wound to stop the blood flow, and he gravely said:

"Go, now."

He carried Li Qi Ye and left the arena while Nan Huai Ren followed right behind them.

After settling Li Qi Ye down, Protector Mo just sat there aimlessly. Right now, he didn't have the time to think about how Li Qi Ye killed Du Yuan Guang. He was devastated about the consequences of killing a disciple from the Nine Saint Demon Gate. This was a huge disaster.

Nan Huai Ren, on the other hand, was treating the wound of Li Qi Ye with a special silver paste. Then, he applied bandages around the shoulder. His mind still wondered about what happened.

"How is it possible for a martial technique to kill a Provisional Palace expert?"

He had seen Li Qi Ye practice the move before. Although it was admirable, he didn't truly care for it since it was only a martial technique.

"That is only because you do not understand the truth."

Comfortably relaxing in his chair, Li Qi Ye was pleased with Nan Huai Ren's confused expression.

[1] Another proverb, meaning that a person is too naive to recognize danger

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Chapter 11 : Arrogance (1)

Although Nan Huai Ren was not a genius, he was not without skill, either. Otherwise, he would not be a hall master amongst the disciples. He had read the "Invisible Dual Blades" manual before. In his eyes, it was only a normal martial technique, but in Li Qi Ye's hands, it had a fearful offensive power.

He looked at Li Qi Ye carefully. As a wily person, he was capable of discerning characteristics and emotions from a person at a glance. However, the thirteen year old Li Qi Ye in front of him, he could not see through. Thirteen years of age was the age when a person first joined a sect; it was still a young age that was emotionally provocable. However, Li Qi Ye possessed a calm aura that was as deep as the ocean; it was hard to describe it with words.

His Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace made the elders and Nan Huai Ren doubt him. In reality, Nan Huai Ren thought Li Qi Ye had a mental illness during their first contact; a mental illness that made one act arrogant and carefree under all conditions. However, after these last few days, he was starting to understand that arrogance and calmness were naturally a part of who Li Qi Ye was.

"Big disaster!!!"

Protector Mo panicked since he was without a solution and quickly said:

"The trial is over! We have to return to our sect!"

Staying here right now was the same as being in a lion's den or a dragon's cave. The only thought in his mind right now was to flee.

"It is only a small matter, why do we have to run?"

As the culprit, Li Qi Ye was lying down lazily on his chair. Slowly, he spoke:

"To me, there is no place safer than the Nine Saint Demon Gate."

Protector Mo glared angrily at Li Qi Ye; he really wanted to slap him a few times. However, he then remembered that a disaster was coming, and he lost all desire to teach this brat a physical lesson.

"What do you know!"

Someone who was normally reserved and quiet like Protector Mo couldn't help but reprimand:

"Do you think you are peerless under the heavens after you got lucky in killing Du Yuan Guang? You don't know the strength of the Nine Saint Demon Gate. Not to mention the Demon King, even an elder alone is enough to deal with our six elders. The Nine Saint Demon Gate destroying us is akin to killing an ant."

Those words were humble but realistic. In reality, the six elders, if officially, were to be given titles, they would just be Named Heroes; they would be equivalent to Nine Saint Demon Gate's protectors. The elders in the Nine Saint Demon Gate were all Royal Nobles at the very least, and the Demon King was one that had created countless miracles and legends in the last thirty thousand years. His strength was deep without a ceiling.

"My dear Protector Mo, do not worry yourself."

Li Qi Ye aloofly said.

"If this was outside, I would be a bit troubled. However, it is the opposite now; we will see who will kill who. Named Heroes, Royal Nobles, those fools can't reach the apex!"

Protector Mo was at a loss for words. This little kid just said that Named Heroes and Royal Nobles couldn't reach the apex when our elders were only Named Heroes.

"You…"

At that moment, something sounded outside. Nan Huai Ren's expression instantly became sour. He quickly went out to check, but ran back inside immediately and screamed in terror.

"Not good! There is a blockade outside the building!"

A crowd entered the building, led by Sectional Leader Fu. His expression, right now, was very ugly.

"Brother Fu, this is only a little misunderstanding."

Seeing Fu's expression, Protector Mo knew that one could not hide from the sun forever. He took a deep breath and went to greet him.[1]

"Misunderstanding? Then you can explain it to our junior, Xu Hui!"

Sectional Leader Fu stood to the side and a young man walked next to him.

This young man wore a golden robe. His body was surrounded by a bloody aura and, above his head, a translucent golden light was situated. He was only twenty but his aura was formidable.

When he saw the young man, Protector Mo couldn't help but shiver. The man in front of him had most likely reached the stage of Heaven's Mandate. It was quite unbelievable; it took Protector Mo fifty years to reach Heaven's Mandate.

"This is Xu Hui, the first disciple of Protector Hua. Du Yuan Guang was about to be Protector Hua's disciple, but he is now dead; Junior Xu Hui wants reparations."

Sectional Leader Fu coldly said.

Xu Hui stepped forward; his eyes radiated a golden light, like a sword that had been unsheathed. He possessed a tyrannical aura, an aura that felt as if it wanted to devour others.

Xu Hui was, of course, a lot stronger than Du Yuan Guang. Even if he was not the ultimate genius, he was considered to be well established within the sect and many responsibilities were given to him.

"Killing must be punished by death; a blood feud has to be paid by blood. There is nothing else to say."

Xu Hui's eyes pierced toward Li Qi Ye like an animal, wanting to separate him into many pieces.

Protector Mo quickly mediated:

"Junior Xu, this is a misunderstanding. My sect's disciple didn't want to kill him; it was only an accident."

Xu Hui gravely said:

"There is no room for discussion. Hand over the criminal right now, do not commit another mistake. Otherwise, you guys are seeking death. Be careful that this might bring about the end of your sect."

"No wonder…"

Li Qi Ye slowly rose from his chair and gracefully walked forward while glaring at Xu Hui.

"It is no wonder the atmosphere of the Nine Saint Demon Gate was so grim, it is because of idiots like you."

Both Nan Huai Ren and Protector Mo gulped in amazement. Nan Huai Ren screamed inside:

'Oh my god, my great ancestor, speaking one or two less sentences wouldn't kill you now, would it? You calling him an idiot to his face is akin to pouring oil into the fire.'

"With those words alone, it is enough to kill you a thousand times over!"

Xu Hui's killing intent amplified as he was filled with rage; he made a move towards Li Qi Ye.

Protector Mo interfered. He grabbed Xu Hui's hand to stop him from rampaging.

"Protector Mo, don't make another mistake!"

Sectional Leader Fu channeled his energy; his body started to radiate golden light. He took a step forward and his aura alone made it hard for Protector Mo to breath.

Protector Mo was surprised by the difference in strength between him and Fu. Fu was a Named Hero; unless an Elder was here to combat him, there was no one here who could stop him.

"Sectional Leader Fu, is this how you treat your guests at the Nine Saint Demon Gate?"

Sectional Leader Fu showed no emotions and proclaimed:

"If you hand over the criminal, you will still be an esteemed guest at our sect. However, if you think your sect has the strength to be our enemy and continue to harbor the criminal, then not only will your life be forfeited but your entire sect will meet its demise!"

"Sect's demise?"

Li Qi Ye, who was protected by Protector Mo, lightly chuckled and said:

"The Nine Saint Demon Gate has become too arrogant. If there was a danger of a sect's demise, it would be your sect!"

[1] Another Chinese proverb

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Chapter 12 : Arrogance (2)

Li Qi Ye no longer wanted to look at Sectional Leader Fu and Xu Hui. He stepped outside; it was as if he was taking a stroll on an empty street, and said:

"I don't care who the current master of the Nine Saint Demon Gate is. Demon King or Virtuous Paragon, whatever. If you want to follow the courtesy guidelines, fine. If not, then don't do it; I will gladly reciprocate the treatment. Today, right here, I will massacre all of the Nine Saint Demon Gate; I will send all of you down to meet the old chicken head."[1]

"Good! Good! How courageous. I will pull out your ligaments, then flay your skin! Then we will see how you are going to destroy our sect."

Xu Hui was at a loss for words. This was the most comedic event he had ever witnessed. This was the first time he had seen such an arrogant and ignorant person.

Right now, Protector Mo and Nan Huai Ren wanted to dig a hole and hide themselves in it. A mortal proclaiming to destroy the Nine Saint Demon Gate? This was a sect that was extremely strong even within the whole of the Grand Middle Territory; it ruled over a whole nation. Who could actually massacre them?

Li Qi Ye ignored Xu Hui and kept on walking gracefully outside.

"Bastard! Die!"

Xu Hui floated into the air and rotated his sword's energy towards Li Qi Ye.

"Stand down!"

A voice, akin to thunder in the sky, rang across the whole sect; no one could resist the authority contained within it. It pierced straight to the soul.

Due to this voice, even Xu Hui and Sectional Leader Fu couldn't help but shiver; their limbs went limp.

"First Elder."

Sectional Leader Fu recognized the voice; with fear still spread through his body, he found himself unable to believe that such a small matter was causing the presence of the first elder.

"It was a fair competition; when killed, one can only blame oneself for not being as skilled."

His voice continued to roar through the sky.

Legend has it that the first elder was an Enlightened Being. This was a character whose strength was only below the Demon King. His presence today made everyone think that there was more to the mortal than meets the eye.

"Our marriage alliance between the Nine Saint Demon Gate and the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect is our sect's tradition."

The first elder, ignoring the death of Du Yuan Guang, let his thunderous voice strike again.

"However, marriage is not a small matter. If the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect wants to marry our prime descendant, he has to prove that he is worthy."

After hearing the words of the first elder, Li Qi Ye returned to his tranquil manner and said:

"Finally, the Nine Saint Demon Gate has someone who will take responsibility. If you want to follow the tradition, I shall do the same. You want to test me? So be it; I accept. Picking a day is not as good as meeting the day; we shall conduct the test right now. To marry your descendant is my choice; however, if anyone dares to disrespect me, I will teach them a lesson."[2]

Finished with his words, he walked right outside.

"It will be today."

After finishing his final command, the sky finally returned to its serene state.

Everyone started to scatter since no one dared to disrespect the first elder's command. However, the consensus here was that Li Qi Ye did not know that the sky was high and the earth was wide. His arrogance seemed to know no bounds.

Protector Mo no longer cared for his image. He grabbed Li Qi Ye and carried him back to the room.

"You fool. If you want to die, please don't bring our sect down with you."

"Protector Mo, do you have to be so scared?"

Li Qi Ye, unwilling to be carried back to the room, pushed Protector Mo's hands away.

"You… You… You…"

Protector Mo couldn't help himself anymore and started to hyperventilate.

Nan Huai Ren, like a mistreated bride, cried:

"Senior, do you know how strong the Nine Saint Demon Gate is right now? Let alone their elders and the Demon King, all of their protectors have the qualification to be Royal Nobles. Demon King Lun Ri, using a single hand, would be enough to bring disaster to our sect. Before, when their first elder was disarming the conflict, you should have taken the chance to nullify the problem."

"Is that how it is? It is too late now. Plus, I prefer to talk with my fists."

Li Qi Ye coldly said.

Of course, Li Qi Ye could not reveal his secrets. If the Nine Saint Demon Gate wanted to cause trouble, he would use this opportunity to test the integrity of the sect. Although, that year, he promised Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon to take care of his descendants, but if they didn't know their place, Li Qi Ye would be happy to cure them of their corruption. Additionally, it would justify him taking the treasures of Nine Saint Demon Gate.

Nan Huai Ren gave up, no longer wanting to speak or look at Li Qi Ye. He felt like he was conducting music, but only an ox was listening. It was a waste of his energy.[3]

Protector Mo finally regained control of his voice; he could only scornfully say:

"You better follow the rules and attend the trial. If you keep causing trouble, you don't have to worry about going back to the sect. No one can save you then."

The trial was taking place in an ancient pavilion. There were two protectors acting as the mediators. One of them was Protector Hua, the master of Xu Hui. The other was Grand Protector Yu He, the strongest protector in the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

Circular, visible auras surrounded the body of Protector Hua. It was as if his body was made out of golden metal. As for the grand protector, his aura was much more intimidating. His Royal Noble strength seeped out in a sanguine color instead of a golden one.

Many disciples surrounded the pavilion; cultivating could be lonely and mundane. They all loved an opportunity for something entertaining to happen. There were so many here that even a fly could not get through the sea of people.

The group that opposed this marriage the most consisted of the male disciples. They all hoped for Li Qi Ye to fail his trial because they believed that he does not qualify to be the husband of their goddess.

[1] This sentence will make sense later

[2] Another proverb saying that there is no reason to wait

[3] Basically, an ox can't hear or appreciate the music, just like a dumb person can't be appealed with reasoning

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Chapter 13 : Chaotic Heart Forest (1)

The disciples also did not like his attitude during the two days that he had been here. Of course, this was understandable since he did threatened to destroy the Nine Saint Demon Gate. The fire and hatred in their eyes could kill Li Qi Ye a hundred times over.

They started to converse amongst themselves.

"Let us kill him as well as the whole Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect."

"No, we have to cut off his arms and feet, then use his head as a candle holder."

"A candle holder? That is too humane. This ant wants to marry our princess? We have to imprison him on top of Hawk Cliff. Let the hawks peck at him for a hundred years while we keep him alive with medicinal techniques."

The conversations quickly became yellings; the crowd fueled itself on anger and hatred towards Li Qi Ye. Both Protector Mo and Nan Huai Ren were shaking in fear; their teeth couldn't stop grinding.

Li Qi Ye removed himself from the surroundings, and he calmly walked around the pavilion with an arrogant flair. Anyone else would have fainted from being surrounded by so many people that want to eat them alive.

"Hmm…"

At this moment, Grand Protector Yu He coughed. This seemingly quiet cough overpowered the crowd. No matter how loud the surrounding was, everyone heard it and immediately stopped talking. The aura of a Royal Noble once again dominated the air.

At this time, Protector Hua began to talk:

"If you can successfully complete the trial, then our two sects will be in-laws just like the ancient tradition. If you can't pass it or die during the test, then it is only a shame that you are not skillful enough."

Li Qi Ye sat down on a chair, then slowly turned towards Protector Hua. He slowly shook his head and smiled.

"One can only say, the Nine Saint Demon Gate is not as eminent as it once was. In that era, why did Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon make that promise? In that era, why did the two sects become in-laws and allies? In that era, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect was worshipped by the heavens and ruled the Nine Worlds. Simply put, the Nine Saint Demon Gate only wanted the protection of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect; to have a backing in order to grow."

Li Qi Ye did not know all of the stories in the past because his condition was not fully stable at that time. The marriage tradition between the two was not proposed by Immortal Emperor Ming Ren and Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon; it was proposed by their descendants.

Li Qi Ye continued.

"Now, the era has changed, and you guys want to relinquish the promise after having benefitted from it. Your current generation is incomparable to your ancestors."

Protector Hua interjected.

"Hmmph, it is as you said, eras change. If you want to say that the current generation is worse than the past, this statement applies to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, not us. Now, we rule the country, the Emperor lineages who want to be our in-laws number more than just one or two, and you think someone like you is worthy of our princess?"

"Just let the past go, you can't change anything by competing in a quarrel."

Grand Protector Yu He started to speak.

"We are giving you a chance to honor the promise that year. If you are afraid, you can leave now. We will not stop or bother you; the promise that year will end here."

"If I am here, then I must take the challenge. What is the trial?"

Li Qi Ye prefered Yu He's attitude a lot more.

"Since your cultivation level is not ideal, our Highness has decided to give you a better chance. The first will not be combat oriented; however, the second will be."

Yu He continued after a short pause:

"The first is very simple. You will have to go into the Chaotic Heart Forest with one of our disciples; the one that travels farther will win. The second is even simpler; it will be a solo fight to determine the victor. There is also a third test, but you only need to win two to pass the trial. The third test consists of…"

"No need to continue, two tests will suffice."

Li Qi Ye cut off the protector.

"How arrogant!"

Protector Hua yelled at him for being so arrogant. He started to exert pressure towards Li Qi Ye.

"The test hasn't even started and you want to fight already?"

Li Qi Ye narrowed his eyes, he found great joy in aggravating people he did not like.

Grand Protector Yu He coughed once again. The cough cuts off the pressure that Protector Hua was exerting. This made Protector Hua angry; he could kill Li Qi Ye just by lifting his finger. There has never been an insect that has dared to talk to him like this before.

"Alright, let us start this test."

Li Qi Ye rose from his seat.

"Both tests are fine, I want to see the abilities of your princess."

Xu Hui contemptuously laughed:

"You don't have the qualification for Senior Li to participate herself. I will be the one that you are up against."

Yu He nodded in agreement.

"I heard you have only recently joined the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. We will not cheat you. If the princess personally delivered the test, then you would have zero chance. Here, when it comes to inner talents and potential, the princess is number one. When it comes to current strength, Junior Leng is the best. If one of them comes to test you, then after losing, you would claim that it was unfair. Junior Xu Hui has average talents amongst our inner disciples; using him to test the prime disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Act should not be too demeaning to your status."

By not sending out their best disciples, the Nine Saint Demon Gate was giving Li Qi Ye a sliver of hope. If the strongest disciple or Li Shuang Yan participated, then even the six elders would have problems.

Li Qi Ye didn't bother to look at Xu Hui. He stared at Yu He and formally said:

"If this is the case, then at least your Nine Saint Demon Gate still has some hope after all. Although you went back on the original promise, you still manage to save a little bit of face and dignity. Fine, since you are allowing me to walk an extra step, I will spare you a yard; just so that in the future, you can't say that I have bullied the sect."[1]

A character like Yu He had spent many years experiencing everything life had to offer, but when he was staring at Li Qi Ye, it still puzzled him that there could be someone who was so arrogant and confusing. Does he not know of our strength? Does he has zero concept of cultivation levels? Yu He broke his stoic demeanor with a small laugh.

"Go to the Chaotic Heart Forest. The one that can go the farthest will win."

Seeing that the test had finally begun, people started going towards the Chaotic Heart Forest. In a second, the forest was already surrounded.

[1] A chinese proverb again

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Chapter 14 : Chaotic Heart Forest (2)

"Hmmph, entering the Chaotic Heart Forest? What can that trash hope to do?"

In the outskirts of the forest, jeering conversations began again.

Another disciple voices another thought:

"In the last examination, Senior Xu made it to level five of the forest. Now that he has reached the Heaven's Mandate stage and started getting ready to start to cultivate in the Warrior Canopy stage, his cultivation strength and willpower are much stronger than before; I predict that he could get to the seventh level."[1]

The stages for cultivators are as follows, from low to high: Palace Foundation, Palace Expansion, Yun Physique, Provisional Palace, Inner Longevity, Heaven's Mandate, Warrior Canopy, Purified Rebirth, Heaven's Primal, and Fertility God.

Once one has reached the unbeatable stage and received the Heaven's Will, one will be named Immortal Emperor.

There were no immortals in the world, so a person might ask, why was there an emperor for immortals? Why does this title exist? It is because there is a saying: "My fate is mine alone; not up to the heavens."

The Heaven's Will serves as a shackle; it encompasses and traps all living beings. Once a cultivator reaches the pinnacle, their goal is to control the Heaven's Will so that they will finally be free from the prison.

This was why one will be called Immortal Emperor once they have obtained the Heaven's Will. However, no one truly knows if true immortality was possible; this remained a mystery.

Each era only has one Heaven's Will; each era can only have one person becoming an Immortal Emperor.

The Chaotic Heart Forest was where the Nine Saint Demon Gate judged a disciple's innate talents, cultivation affinity, and willpower. At this place, the most important quality was one's willpower.

It consists of fourteen levels. From an outside view, there were no drastic visual differences between it and a normal forest. However, this seemingly normal place was created by Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon.

Intruders would be shown realistic illusions. Even the ones that possessed mystic eyes could not see through the technique unless they were stronger than Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon. Otherwise, the technique would be reality for all who stepped inside.

For example, one could find himself trapped in a sea of fire. The body would feel as if it was actually entrapped; the mind would clearly feel the pain. The higher the level, the stronger the illusion would be.

Of course, you could still use cultivation techniques to mitigate the pain as well as merit laws to prevent the fire from reaching your body. The only thing was that you could not escape the forest using any distance traversing techniques.

"Idiotic little boy, hurry up and enter!"

Outside of the forest, Xu Hui smirked contemptuously towards Li Qi Ye. He believed that with his current abilities, it would be no problem to enter the eighth level.

Li Qi Ye looked at the forest, and grinned slightly. That year, the old chicken created the Chaotic Heart Forest himself; it was indeed a good location to test willpower.

"Me?"

Li Qi Ye spoke clearly:

"Traversing the Chaotic Heart Forest holds no meaning to me. If I were to enter, then you wouldn't even have the chance to show your worth. You go first so that later on, you can't say I didn't give you a chance."

Li Qi Ye, again, spouted arrogant comments, making everyone else shiver in contempt. Protector Mo and Nan Huai Ren wanted to lock up his mouth forever. Would you die if you said a few less sentences!? Lying all the time…

"Idiot!"

Protector Hua proclaimed.

"You are just a piece of trash that doesn't know what cultivational willpower is, yet still runs his mouth without shame."

Xu Hui couldn't believe a mere mortal was looking down on him. He frowned:

"Good, good, such strong words! I have to see how many levels you can make it through."

"How many levels? How meaningless; going through fourteen isn't a big deal at all."

Li Qi Ye continued:

"That is why I'm letting you go first, so you wouldn't be so shocked!"

"Do all people of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect lie like you without any hesitation?"

Another disciple couldn't stand it anymore and yelled out.

Everyone knows that going through level seven of the Chaotic Heart Forest was considered a wondrous task for the younger generation. To complete level seven, one would have to have a tenacious willpower or a high level of cultivation.

Even the calm Grand Protector Yu He couldn't help but shake his head; why was he the prime disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect? Going through fourteen levels? Was it that easy? Even Yu He cannot go through the fourteen levels at his current level.

"Fourteen levels?"

Xu Hui exploded in laughter.

"If you can go through all fourteen levels, I will call you father!"

"I wouldn't have an unfilial son like you!"

Li Qi Ye retorted.

"Good, if you are that confident with your mouth, do you dare to make a bet?"

"Bet, eh? What will we bet?"

Li Qi Ye smiled happily and asked.

"If you can penetrate all fourteen levels, I will voluntarily concede! If you can't do it, then you have to crawl under my crotch."[2]

This bet caused the expressions of Protector Mo and Nan Huai Ren to instantly darken. This wasn't a test, it was a facade to shame Li Qi Ye and the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. However, they could only dejectedly shake their heads; Li Qi Ye brought this upon himself.

"Would you do the same if I make it through the fourteenth level? You will crawl under my crotch, right?"

Li Qi Ye asked.

"If you can make it through the fourteenth level, he will do it and vice versa!"

Protector Hua interjected. Due to the killing of Du Yuan Guang, Protector Hua wanted to kill Li Qi Ye with his bare hands. Since the opportunity wasn't right, the best he could do was to shame Li Qi Ye.

Li Qi Ye looked back at Protector Hu, then formally nodded his head and said:

"Fine, if this is your betting condition, I shall accept!"

The disciples of the Nine Saint Demon Gate all yelled loudly:

"Senior Xu, destroy him; accept the bet!"

Xu Hui coldly replied:

"I'll wait for you to crawl beneath me."

He then turned and left towards the Chaotic Heart Forest.

"This time, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect will lose all face; their prime disciple will have to perform such an act! Haha!"

One disciple creepily laughed.

Xu Hui took his first step into the forest; the surroundings immediately darkened. He found himself in a demonic world; it was an area spanning ten thousand miles. Demonic energy filled the air; countless skeletons and the sounds of bones colliding with each other could be heard even before the bodies began to emancipate themselves from the ground.

Xu Hui inhaled and calmed himself. He channeled his energy, and strengthened himself with his cultivation and steeled his willpower. He ignored the demons and passed through them with ease.

"First level!"

Everyone outside watched carefully without blinking an eye. Without any hindrance, Xu Hui successfully passed through the first level.

"Second level, third level…"

Xu Hui was definitely not average; his cultivation level and willpower were both excellent. His speed at breaking through the first three levels was, indeed, very swift.

At the fourth level, however, his speed began to slow down. Fierce Silver Skeleton Kings began to attack him. In the beginning, he chose to evade and parry them; but, after his hands were broken, making him cry out in pain, his body started to destroy them instead as a defense mechanism. He possessed a silver body that warded off invaders on its own. However, this took a lot of energy.

Once he reached level five, he was completely surrounded by the skeletons. He roared loudly and summoned his defensive artifact. His magical sword flew straight into the sky; its blade spewed out true energy. This form of energy consisted of the Dao of truths, and it conquered the four spheres.[3]

His Life Wheel appeared behind his head; it was a crimson red that encompasses the sky. It performed with unparalleled laws of power that destroyed everything in the surrounding area.

Cultivation techniques that allowed for one to use his Life Wheel as an offensive tool were often stronger than certain Physique forming techniques. This Life Wheel technique specialized in destruction, left behind by the Virtuous Paragon. It was not of paragon level, but it was still quite formidable nevertheless.[4]

Li Qi Ye slightly shook his head when he saw Xu Hui killing his way through level five. Chaotic Heart Forest; if your heart was chaotic, then killing only increased the uncertainty and exacerbate the illusions. Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon's goal was to train the willpower of the students, not their physical or combat strength.

"Level seven."

Xu Hui annihilated his way to the seventh level; this put the spectators in awe.

Even Protector Hua felt satisfied. Xu Hui was his disciple and his pride. Although Xu Hui's aptitude could not compare to Li Shuang Yan's and his strength was lacking against first disciple Leng Shi Zi, his progress today had pleased his master.

"Bang!"

Xu Hui had only made it to level seven, but his strength had been expended; he couldn't handle the pressure of the Chaotic Heart Forest any longer and was promptly removed.

"Just a little bit more…"

After the forceful ejection, it took Xu Hui a moment to regain his consciousness. He couldn't help but yell out his regret. He thought that he could have at least made it to level eight, but he had still underestimated the difficulty of the Chaotic Heart Forest.

[1] The cultivation methods are based on Chinese divination, Canopy or Cassiopeia is one of the stars

[2] This is an extremely shameful punishment. Can be found today; crawling under a table after losing in a card game

[3] Four spheres is another way of saying the surrounding area. There are different types of energy as well, he is using true energy here, and it is not an adjective in this case

[4] Physique forming techniques are another cultivation method; it specializes in strengthening the body. This is why his arms were broken multiple times because his body is not as strong. His Life Wheel makes up for it

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Chapter 15: Miracle (1)

Protector Hua gently consoled his disciple: "You did well, there is no need to force what isn't meant to be."

Yu He approvingly nodded his head: "To be able to enter the seventh level at this age is a very commendable feat within the younger generation."

Xu Hui gathered his wits, took a deep breath, and coldly stared at Li Qiye: "Your turn! It's not too late to give up."

Then, Xu Hui spread out his legs and showed a shady smile: "If you do it now, I won't make things hard for you later on. If you wait until after you have failed the test, then it would be difficult to predict what your fate will be."

Li Qiye ignored the taunts and entered the Chaotic Heart Forest step by step.

In front of him was a sea of fire. It was a world filled with lava and fiery crackles. Inside this illusion, his feet were burnt to a crisp. No one could imagine how much pain he was feeling, but Li Qiye just strutted on without muttering a single groan.

Li Qiye did not mind the Chaotic Heart Forest. During the Desolate Era, he spent his time being tortured while his soul was severed from his body. He had suffered at the hands of heavenly demons and trapped by the Ancient Ming. He spent what felt like an eternity without sunlight and underwent many torturous ordeals. Although the body of the Dark Crow was immortal, pain could still be felt.

One million years passed. He traveled through all of the Forbidden Burials, spent time in the land of immortals, and fell into the realm of ghosts and devils — these were the most dangerous places in this world. Compared to those places, the Chaotic Heart Forest was nothing more than a short stroll. It couldn't break his willpower.

In the blink of an eye, he had passed the first level. In the illusion, the sea of fire disappeared. Li Qiye was now in a frozen world, surrounded by the icy cold gales of a tundra.

Outside of the forest, countless disciples were waiting for Li Qiye to be kicked out. Protector Mo and Nan Huairen still had their gazes turned away as they were unwilling to see Li Qiye being humiliated. However, as moments passed, a silence encroached the surroundings. One could hear the drop of a needle from a mile away. Surprised by the lack of jeers and cheers from Li Qiye's failure, the two turned their heads around. What entered their sight was an unimaginable scene.

A disciple softly whimpered in shock: "Level… level… level eight…"

"Level nine, ten, eleven…"

Li Qiye paraded through the levels as if he was walking in an empty street. His speed remained as swift as it was during the first level.

"Level… level… fourteen…"

In the end, Li Qiye went straight through the Chaotic Heart Forest with full confidence, and he leisurely stepped out of the last level.

Everyone was now frozen. Passing through the fourteen levels of the Chaotic Heart Forest — this was an impossible feat. From the ancient past until now, none from the younger generation of the Nine Saint Demon Gate had ever accomplished it. Even Li Shuangyan, who had the highest aptitude and most fortified willpower, couldn't accomplish such a feat.

"This is impossible… simply impossible! This cannot be!" Xu Hui fell deep into confusion, but this was the reality that laid before his eyes.

Protector Hua had his mouth wide open as well. He couldn't close it due to his bewilderment.

Even the sect master could not pass the fourteenth level of the Chaotic Heart Forest. What kind of willpower was this?

Li Qiye came back and casually spoke: "Eh, this is only the appetizer." It was as if he had just taken a walk in the comfort of his own garden.

Li Qiye glanced at Xu Hui and casually declared: "Okay, kneel and start crawling!"

Xu Hui loudly howled: "No… No, this cannot be happening!" It wasn't only him, everyone else here also found themselves in disbelief.

Protector Hua wondered: "Was there something wrong with the Chaotic Heart Forest?"

"Surely, surely that is the case. Maybe the prohibiting spells of the forest have lost their power." It was as if Xu Hui was trying to find a tree branch while drowning. He quickly added: "It doesn't count, the Chaotic Heart Forest has lost its effect."

"There is no chance it has lost its power." A while later, Grand Protector Yu He gathered his thoughts, shook his head, and continued: "From the creation of the sect, the forest has never been ineffective. I will go and check."

Finished with his words, he personally entered the Chaotic Heart Forest.

Yu He was indeed formidable and befitting his Grand Protector status. His willpower was substantial, he easily made it through the first nine levels. After reaching the tenth level, his speed decreased.

A loud noise roared through the air. Yu He could not pass all the levels of the forest. He was kicked out before reaching the eleventh level.

"The Chaotic Heart Forest did not lose its power." Yu He stated this with complete confidence. He stared at Li Qiye with curious eyes, not understanding the event that had transpired.

Li Qiye, who was only thirteen years old, was capable of finishing the Chaotic Heart Forest? Unless there was a mysterious force at work here, his cultivation willpower was immutable. However, a mere thirteen-year-old boy could not possibly have this level of willpower. It required centuries and millenniums to have such a mind. Although he had a mortal body and inferior innate talents, it would only be a matter of time before he became a Virtuous Paragon through sheer willpower.

Protector Hua inquired: "You, are you carrying a sacred treasure?"

Xu Hui raises his voice: "That has to be the case. The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect is an Immortal Emperor level sect, maybe he is hiding an Immortal Emperor sacred treasure."

This was indeed the most logical explanation. Right now, everyone was thinking that this was the case. Ultimately, even though the sect was now weak, it was not unreasonable to think that one or two Immortal Emperor sacred treasures were left behind. If he used just one of them, then he could indeed pass the Chaotic Heart Forest unharmed.

Protector Hua boldly proclaimed: "Using a sacred treasure to cheat, this bet does not count!"

He was sure that Li Qiye had committed foul play.

"Protector Hua, that is unfair." Protector Mo had no time to think about how Li Qiye passed the trial. He gravely said: "This is a test designed by your sect. You cannot lose and then relinquish the test."

Protector Hua replied: "If you use a treasure to cheat, then of course it won't count."

Taking Li Qiye's side, Protector Mo continued: "It does not matter whether he used external tools or not. Your sect did not declare that he could not use treasures to pass the test. Our disciple has gone through the forest, this round is ours."

Protector Mo did not want to waste time, so he turned to Yu he and asked: "Protector Yu, did the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect win this round or not?"

"About this matter…" Yu He could not decide. He did not believe that Li Qiye had actually passed the forest without external help. However, the Nine Saint Demon Gate also did not state the rule that one couldn't use sacred treasures.

"I walk my route straight and sit tall; my heart has no shameful secrets to the heavens. Unlike the people of the Nine Saint Demon Gate, betting and losing and then being unable to accept the loss. If you think I am hiding a treasure, then try and find it. If you can find it, then I will give it to you."

Yu He contemplated for a moment, lifted his head, and then spoke to Li Qiye: "If you want to prove your innocence, we have a solution. The great ancestor left behind a treasure named the Immortal Bone Mirror; it can see through all hidden objects. If you are willing to let us use it, then we can tell whether you bear a treasure or not."

"I agree to the usage of the Immortal Bone Mirror." Protector Hua was the first to speak: "If the mirror cannot find anything, then it will mean that he did not carry a hidden treasure."

The disciples banded together and roared: "Yes! If you don't want to, then it means that you cheated."

"I pity you lot." Li Qiye stared at them and agreed: "I will allow the mirror test. Bring it out."

Yu He sent people to grab the mirror. This mirror had a deep history; it was said that its heritage dated back to the Desolate Era and that it had been honed by an Immortal Emperor. The Immortal Bone Mirror was much stronger than the mirror that was used by the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect to test new disciples.

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Chapter 16 : Miracle (2)

The Immortal Bone Mirror revealed itself; the shiny glass had immortal flow patterns, exuding an aura like a living creature. Even Yu He was in fear from its power.

The Immortal Bone Mirror flashed on the body of Li Qi Ye, forcing his Life Wheel and Fate Palace to appear. His Life Wheel slowly turned, lacking any pressure, while his Fate Palace had not been opened.

Yu He concluded:

"He has a Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and a Mortal Fate Palace that has not been opened; he has not started cultivating. Also, there are no hidden treasures on his body."

The lowest level of cultivation is the Palace Foundation level. Once one started to cultivate, even the lowest of talents could open the Fate Palace in one day if fast, ten days if slow.

Under the gaze of the Immortal Bone Mirror, Li Qi Ye could not hide anything; all that he is was revealed to the eyes of the spectators.

"Protetor Hua, Protector Yu, are you guys satisfied now?"

Protector Mo solemnly questioned. Being subjected to the Immortal Bone Mirror was shameful to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

"Our apologies."

Yu He was a man of character. He nodded his head and politely said:

"Li Qi Ye did not cheat."

After hearing the confirmation from Yu He, the crowd had no comments to make. They still couldn't believe that a mortal with the worst of characteristics was able to pass through the forest.

Xu Hui was the most devastated of them all.

"But how can this be true!"

Li Qi Ye leered at him and spoke:

"It seems like you are not convinced, but that is quite alright. I will make it so that you will crawl without hesitation. It is only the Chaotic Heart Forest; only an idiot like you would only reach level seven. Open your eyes to see your grandpa go once again."

After his taunt, Li Qi Ye reentered the forest.

All eyes were focused intensely on the forest, not wanting to miss a single detail. They wanted to reach a conclusion that their minds could comprehend within the realm of logic. If Li Qi Ye succeeds again, then they'll have no choice but to change their view on the world. But, if he failed, then all was good with the world.

"Level fourteen!"

Nan Huai Ren was keeping count as Li Qi Ye went through the levels. Even though this was the second time, he was just as shocked as the first.

Yu He truly understood now. Although Li Qi Ye's cultivation aptitude and physique could not reach the apex, he possessed an unfaltering willpower. A thirteen year old had a stronger mind that he did after a thousand years of cultivation.

"Start crawling."

Li Qi Ye came back and mischievously spread his legs in front of Xu Hui.

"You!"

Xu Hui trampled the ground in shame, his expression turned white. If he had to crawl beneath Li Qi Ye before all of these spectators, then he would lose all face in the future.

"Our Nine Saint Demon Gate has our honor. If you lose a bet, you have to bear the consequence."

Yu He nodded.

"Xu Hui, you were the one who wanted this bet in the first place. Now carry out your end of the bargain."

Xi Hui almost fainted on the spot. If Protector Yu had spoken, then even his master could not save him. He grinded his teeth and unwillingly knelt before Li Qi Ye. His body froze for a minute; this was the most shameful event of his life.

Eventually, he started to crawl through Li Qi Ye's legs. Li Qi Ye looked down and spoke:

"When people show me an ounce of respect, I will treat them well, but if anyone dares to cross me, then I will repay them ten folds. A genius disciple of the Nine Saint Demon Gate is nothing in my eyes!"

Finished speaking, Li Qi Ye turned around and walked away.

"Ugh!"

Xu Hui fell down to the ground; he puked out blood from anger and became unconscious.[1]

"Hui'er!"[2]

Protector Hua quickly grabbed Xu Hui and massaged his meridians.

Returning to the pavilion, Protector Hua and Yu He found their seats. Li Qi Ye was already sitting there arrogantly like a king; it made the other disciples feel the urge to beat him up.

Protector Hua leered at Li Qi Ye, and a great hatred shone in his eyes. When a disciple was shamed, as the master, they shared the same enemy. Shaming his disciple was the same as slapping him on the face.

Li Qi Ye playfully knocked on the table and said:

"The first test has been completed, let us get started on the second."

Before, Yu He thought that Li Qi Ye was ignorantly arrogant; however, after having thought about it again, maybe he had some secret tricks.

A mortal without the basics of cultivation; what was his backing that allowed for him to challenge the Nine Saint Demon Gate? Could It be that the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect still had hidden secrets not yet revealed?

Yu He quickly dismissed his last thought. As the grand protector, he was fully aware of the current position of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. If it had any secrets left, then it would not be submitting to the Heavenly Jewel Kingdom.

The second piece of information was that Li Qi Ye had only joined the sect for a few days, and he forcefully used the Cleansing Incense Ancient Order to become the prime disciple; even the six elders there did not welcome him.

Yu He had no idea what hidden mysteries this person could have without any support.

Returning to the matter at hand, Yu He clearly said:

"Right now, Xu Hui is not in his best condition; if you want to perform the test, then we will have to change your opponent."

"Honorable Protector, I am fine."

Xu Hui, all of a sudden, stood up straight. Despite his pale complexion, he violently leered at Li Qi Ye, and killing intent was seen in his eyes. He swore to himself that he would be the one to kill Li Qi Ye, using his blood to wash away his shame.

He used his proud standing posture to maintain and announce his confidence; he lifted his head high and proclaimed:

"Protector, I can still fight!"

Yu He slightly frowned; he knew exactly what Xu Hui was thinking. He gently spoke:

"Junior Xu, your current condition is not fit for combat."

This matter was very important within the Nine Saint Demon Gate, and Li Qi Ye had already won the first match.

"Senior Yu, this kid has a strong will, a setback will not deter him. Please give him another chance."

Protector Hua tried to support his disciple's wish.

Xu Hui grinded his teeth, and said with extreme determination:

"Protector, if I make a single mistake, I will pay for it with my life."

Yu He contemplated for a moment. Within the younger disciples, Xu Hui had obtained Heaven's Mandate and was close to the Warrior Canopy stage. It would be difficult to find another who was as strong. Plus, his cultivation included the Life Wheel technique "Fierce Slaughter Sword."

Yu He understood the strength of this technique; it was crafted by a Virtuous Paragon in the sect. If Xu Hui used his Life Wheel without any hesitation, then none of his peers would be able to defeat him in a life or death contest, barring the strongest ones. If Xu Hui didn't fight, then the safe choices would be Li Shuang Yan or Leng Shi Zhi; however, those two weren't an option.

Yu He was no longer underestimating Li Qi Ye, but he couldn't think of a way for a mortal to defeat a Heaven's Mandate cultivator with a Virtuous Paragon technique.

"Good, you will fight then!"

After careful consideration, he agreed with the choice of Xu Hui.

[1] For unfamiliar readers, anger can lead to bloody coughs in these novels

[2] Er is an affectionate expression to refer to someone

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Chapter 17 : Demon King Lun Ri (1)

On the battle stage, surrounded by spectators, Xu Hui was hell-bent on destroying Li Qi Ye. He wanted to pull out his muscles, flay his skin, and smash his body into a thousand pieces.[1]

Nan Huai Ren and Protector Mo wanted to believe in Li Qi Ye. Although the chance of him winning was slim, he had continuously performed miracles in the past.

"Hey, can he really beat Senior Xu?"

Ever since Li Qi Ye went through the Chaotic Heart Forest in one go, the disciples of the Nine Saint Demon Gate considered him as a real opponent.

An older senior shook his head:

"The difference between them is too great. It is a mortal versus a Heaven's Mandate cultivator. Li Qi Ye wouldn't be able to win unless he was somehow given an Immortal Emperor's true energy, but even that isn't realistic. Even with it, he wouldn't have enough blood force to activate the energy."

"That is true, a mortal cannot activate a single usage of an Immortal Emperor's true energy. The 'Fierce Slaughter Sword' technique of Junior Xu is overly powerful from its mysterious truths. A life or death battle with that technique would not bode well for his opponent."

A disciple that had previously sparred with Xu Hui offered his opinion.

"Don't forget about his Silver Eagle Physique as well. Although it is only a Houtian rank physique, it has considerable speed. If you combine both his speed and power, you can say that his offensive power is nearly unmatched in our generation."[2]

Cultivators valued physiques very highly. They ranked from weakest to strongest as the following:

Mortal Physique, Houtian Physique, Xiantian Physique, Emperor Physique, Saint Physique, and lastly, Immortal Physique.

The majority of the world has the Mortal Physique, including Li Qi Ye. It is the weakest both in terms of physical strength and blood force.

Xu Hui roared; sword energies rotated around his bodied in an upward manner. They became a giant, impenetrable fortress of visible, radiant swords, all pointing towards Li Qi Ye. The technique served as a defensive measure as he was channeling his energy.

"Open!"

A heavenly sword came out from Xu Hui's mouth; it split into eight different heavenly swords. These swords were gigantic, towering at two hundred meters each. A single strike could split the earth itself.

"Fierce Slaughter Sword, Heavenly Sword Yan Jin!"

A disciple couldn't help but exclaim their jealousy and envy.

"Xu Hui's true energy is formed by Yan Jin's Heavenly Jade with a complete magical pattern. Heavenly Sword Yan Jin is for offense and Fierce Slaughter Sword for defense. Within our generation, he is nearly unbeatable. "

Witnessing the scene, Protector Mo was humbled. Xu Hui proved to be more powerful than expected, especially when he has the possession of the Yan Jin sword. Protector Mo himself wouldn't be able to pierce through Xu Hui's defenses. After his failed attack, the Yan Jing sword formation would immediate counter attack at the time when he is the most vulnerable.

Xu Hui maneuvered his swords at Li Qi Ye, and maniacally yelled:

"Come here, you bastard. Today, I will slice you into a thousand pieces!"

"Phoo, phoo!"

Li Qi Ye spat into his palms and then rubbed them together; this rather crude gesture was completely different from his normally elegant demeanor.

"A thousand pieces?"

Li Qi Ye retorted.

"You, alone, is not enough. Let me beat you into a pig's head; even your parents will not recognize who you are after I am done."

Li Qi Ye slowly took out the Serpent Punishing Stick.

Nan Huai Ren almost went unconscious from the scene; wasn't that the fireplace stick in the grand chamber of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect? He was expecting Li Qi Ye to use the "Invisible Dual Blades" technique; maybe its miraculous power would help him tie the fight.

However, Li Qi Ye wasn't using the blades, but a wooden stick instead… The Yan Jin sword would cut that thing in half in a second.

Protector Mo's only thought at this moment was to save Li Qi Ye's life the moment it was in danger, no matter the cost.

"Using a wooden stick to fight against the Yan Jin sword? Could it be an Immortal Emperor grade weapon?"

Yu He squinted his eyes and opened his heavenly vision technique in order to see through the wooden stick. He was, indeed, worried that the stick was a treasure made by an Immortal Emperor.

However, despite his numerous techniques and concentration, the wooden stick was just a wooden stick. There were no magical enchantments, nor cultivation techniques to utilize. A wooden stick versus a Heaven's Mandate level sword; Yu He was at a loss for words.

Protector Hua was not as skeptical as Yu He; he only wanted to witness Li Qi Ye's death.

Li Qi Ye pointed his Serpent Punishing Stick at Xu Hui like a ruffian, and said:

"Little boy, come here; let this grandpa shatter your butt!"

"I'll kill you!"

Xu Hui screamed as the eight heavenly swords became one sword. Straight from the sky, the Yan Jin sword, surrounded by a gigantic energy, swung down towards Li Qi Ye. Its path burned with fire; the battle stage now bathed in a sea of flames.

"This is the end!"

Nan Huai Ren turned around, not wanting to see the result of this monstrous strike. It seemed like Xu Hui wanted to finish this in one move, and he used his most powerful technique.

"Good!"

Li Qi Ye paid no mind. He screamed in a strange manner and jumped forward with a random motion, swinging his stick.

The scene that everyone was expecting did not happen.

The Serpent Punishing Stick met the weakest part of the Yan Jin sword during its trajectory. The sword's energy dissipated, and the physical sword plunged to the ground; it was as if it was bitten by a poisonous snake, unable to obey Xu Hui's command.

"Little boy, I will beat you into a pig's head!"

Xu Hui hadn't regained his composure, but Li Qi Ye was already in front of him. The stick passed through his sword fortress and rained blows directly onto his body.

"Die!"

Xu Hui did not retreat; he once again gathered his sword energy and surrounded Li Qi Ye with it.

"Gather!"

However, to no avail, his Virtuous Paragon sword technique had no effect. The Serpent Punishing Stick continuously struck at the formation's weakest points, and he successfully negated the incoming blows. Finally, it struck Xu Hui's face, and that one blow made Xu Hui redden with blood. He became disoriented; stars in his eyes and thunder in his ears.[3]

"Bam, Bam, Bam!"

In the blink of an eye, Li Qi Ye had pummeled Xu Hui ten times, all of them hitting the meridians and his weakest spots. Xu Hui was like a snake without its skeletal body; unable to stand up. His blood force was in disarray, and his cultivation techniques were unusable. He fell to the ground with a busted face.

The Serpent Punishing Stick was not a heavenly treasure; it was only a regular wooden stick. Hitting a snake required one to aim for its head; this was true for the blows struck by Li Qi Ye as well. They have to hit the weak points and defensive holes of the opponents. Unless the opponent had reached the Heaven's Primal stage, they could not escape the blows for he had not perfected his own understanding of the defensive mysterious truths. One of the requirements for Heaven's Primal is a rebirth of one's body and the understanding of techniques as well as a body protection aura, rendering the Serpent Punishing Stick useless. However, since Xu Hui was far away from Heaven's Primal, the wooden stick was his prime nemesis.

Keep in mind that even Immortal Emperor Min Ren was beaten by the stick, repeatedly; the same applied for all of his strongest generals, including Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon.

The Serpent Punishing Stick was a regular branch grown from a small tree in the Demon Forest, basked by demonic aura throughout the ages. However, this made it anything but ordinary; the Demon Forest was one of the few Ancient Forbidden Dangers.

The stick also had another property that made it appealing to Li Qi Ye. No matter how many times a person is struck by it, they would not die from the blows. It was a stick specifically meant for punishment and teaching; this made it very appropriate for Li Qi Ye when dealing with the powerful geniuses under his tutelage.

"Bang, Bang, Bang!"

After Xu Hui had fallen unconscious, to the ground, Li Qi Ye did not show any mercy. He kept on striking the body of Xu Hui. His body was now filled with wounds, no one could tell if he was dead or alive.

This scene jolted the spectators. Yu He, once again, activated his mysterious eyes to look at the Serpent Punishing Stick, but he still couldn't find anything special about it.

Bao: I just spent 40 minutes translating about a normal wooden stick, but this is why I like this story, the little things about his past are interesting to me. Let me know if you guys felt the same or maybe hated it.

Nahct: And I just spent 30 minutes reading about a wooden stick. Wooo~

Nerebear: It adds a nice touch of sentimentality and history to it that I like.

[1] Common Chinese saying of wanting to really really kill someone; four words total in the Chinese version

[2] Houtian and Xiantian are very common terms for Xian Xia so I chose to leave it as source

[3] Common poetic description for a blow to the head or disorientation

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Chapter 18 : Demon King Lun Ri (2)

It was natural that Yu He could not see through an object like the Serpent Punishing Stick. Since ancient times, the amount of people that have seen it with their own eyes were few. Without his knowledge from traversing the Forbidden Dangers, he too, would not have known the secret and magical properties of the Serpent Punishing Stick.

If one could not discern its characteristics, then it was only a wooden stick in their eyes.

"I'll kill you!"

Although his body was tattered with wounds, his Silver Eagle Physique activated automatically. Below Xu Hui's ribs, two sharp claws came out and went for the heart of Li Qi Ye.

Xu Hui had the Silver Eagle Physique because his father was a Silver Eagle that became a human from having an accomplished cultivation level. The pair of claws were always hiding inside his body incase he ever needed to suddenly surprise his enemies.

"Phanh!"

The wooden stick easily stopped the silver eagle claws, forcing them back into Xu Hui's body.

"You seek your own death!"

Li Qi Ye coldly proclaimed.

"Whoosh whoosh."

Two blades immediately pierce through Xu Hui's shoulders and pinched him into the ground, immobilizing his body.

"Do you think it is that easy to kill me? Today, I'm going to hit you without mercy."

Li Qi Ye continued to hit him with the wooden stick; he felt cheated by the event that had just transpired.

"That is enough!"

At this moment, Protector Hua could no longer keep watching. He jumped into the battle stage and yelled.

Li Qi Ye glanced at him and said:

"What now? If the child can't win, the old man wants to join in as well?"

"Young one, don't be so delusional!"

His eyes contained anger and hatred, he gravely said:

"Let him go, or I will personally kill you today."

"I was going to spare him, but…"

After finishing, Li Qi Ye sliced the two blades across Xu Hui's body, severing him into multiple pieces. The blades that struck through to the floor created a rain of blood and sparks.

"Hui'er! You little bastard, accept your death!"

Protector Hua lost all restraint and his blood force punctured through the sky. A magical sword, towering twenty thousand meters, flew towards Li Qi Ye.

Protector Mo couldn't react in time; his mind was full of panic.

"BANG!"

As the sky piercing sword appeared, suddenly, a gigantic foot from the heavens stomped down with an unstoppable force. No one could stop this blow; not a Named Hero, nor a Royal Noble. Not even an Enlightened Being or a Heavenly King would have been able to; all living beings were just ants compared to the might of that foot.

"Noooo!"

Protector Hua only managed to let out a pitiful scream. His body, under the giant foot, became meat paste; he could not be more dead.

Everyone was shocked because the foot did not belong to Li Qi Ye; it was from one of the four gigantic statues situated at the four corners of this battle stage. It was unbelievable that a Royal Noble like Protector Hua was killed in one stomp.

"You can't…"

Everything happened too fast, Grand Protector Yu He had ignited his blood force and flung it towards the foot in order to save Protector Hua.

However, that foot did not take any damage; it performed another stomp.

"Bang!"

Yu He was smashed away straight into the main mountain; his blood wouldn't stop flowing.

"Don't you dare!"

A thunderous cry roared up in the sky; it was as if it was encompassing all of the mysterious truths of the heaven and earth; heavenly auras illuminated the whole sky. A person suddenly appeared in the distance, floating in the air. Behind his head was a heavenly blinding aura that could burn the world.

"First Elder!"

All of the Nine Saint Demon Gate disciples yelled out in bewilderment. The first elder raised his palm and immediately flipped it towards the statue. This palm technique, that carried incomparable might, flew towards the statue.

"Bang!"

Another deafening sound blasted into the air. This time, the statue used its hand to meet the palm strike. It annihilated the technique; the first elder's blood painted the sky's color. Even someone as formidable as he could not handle a single strike from the statue.

Everyone was at a loss for words. The statues at the battle stage suddenly made a move, killing Protector Hua, kicking Yu He away, and used one punch to defeat the first elder.

Afterwards, the statue remained still like nothing had happened.

Li Qi Ye, in the middle of the arena, casually opened his mouth.

"Like I said, if the Nine Saint Demon Gate does not follow the rules; I would have no qualms in flipping your sect upside down."

"Hmmmph…"

The first elder, although wounded, had his blood force that was still going strong. He immediately flew to the sky, wanting to use all of his might against the statues. He was afraid inside because he did not know why their own statues would rebel against the sect.

"Elder, don't make any more moves. These four statues are the Heavenly Guardians of the Nine Saint Demon Gate."

Right now, a commanding voice, that was filled with nobility, rang from the deepest part of the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

"Sect Master!"

Hearing this voice, everyone from the Nine Saint Demon Gate knew who it belonged to. This was the sect master, Demon King Lun Ri, the leader of a whole generation of geniuses in the Grand Middle Territory.

The first elder stopped immediately; he kept staring at the four statues while he pondered many questions.

All of the disciples were surprised as well. They have never heard anyone talk about the sect having Heavenly Guardians, let alone Heavenly Guardians that could harm their own sect.

"Elder, Protector Yu He, please invite Young Master Li into the sky chamber to talk. Would that be alright?"

After hearing the invitation, Li Qi Ye smirked and answered:

"Finally, someone who can see with their eyes; a little talk will not hurt."

Grand Protector Yu He quickly came to Li Qi Ye and respectfully gestured him toward the sky chamber. The more he stared at Li Qi Ye, the more afraid he became. This thirteen year old was too frightening.

The sky chamber was an important location in the Nine Saint Demon Gate. All major decisions were discussed and made there, and only elders had the qualifications to enter.

Of course, Protector Mo and Nan Huai Ren could not enter as well. Since the sky chamber was situated in the deepest part of the sect and Li QI Ye could not fly, a grand Royal Noble like Yu He had to bend down to fly him over on his back.

Right now, all of the elders were present in the chamber. Heavenly auras exuded from all of their bodies; their Life Wheels bounced up and down; mysterious patterns of law that resembled the creation of a new world crossed their entire bodies. They had all reached the stage of Enlightened Beings, definitely not Royal Nobles.

One Royal Noble could destroy the entirety of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, imagine how strong an Enlightened Being was. The hidden strength of the Nine Saint Demon Gate was truly staggering when seen; no wonder they were the rulers of Old Ox Country.

Despite all of this, Li Qi Ye was not surprised one bit and he sat down gracefully in the sky chamber.

"Since the ancient times, no one had ever connected with our Heavenly Guardians."

The Demon King's voice appeared, but no one could see him.

Li Qi Ye shook his head and said:

"I don't like talking to people who hide their face behind a veil."

The elders were not pleased with his words. Demon King Lun Ri was a monstrous man, and all of the elders here deeply respected and feared him. However, this Li Qi Ye was not minding his words towards the King at all.

"It is not as if I don't want to see Young Master Li, but right now, I am still in the middle of closed cultivation; I can't personally meet you."

Demon King Lun Ri patiently explained.

Li Qi Ye nodded his head and smiled.

"Fine, I won't make it hard for you; at the very least, I am a very reasonable man."

Lun Ri politely inquired:

"I want to hear how you were able to connect with our Heavenly Guardians."

All the elders were surprised as well; they never knew that their sect had Heavenly Guardians.

At this moment, Lun Ri started to explain:

"The Nine Saint Demon Gate has four Heavenly Guardians which are the four statues in the battle stage. They were invited by the patriarch to protect our sect. Not only that, they also guard the Heaven's Vein and Earth's Vein between the battle stage, which is the bloodline of our sect, but until today, they have never made a move."

His voice became graver as he went on during his explanation. Once finished, all the elders' eyes were on Li Qi Ye. They did not understand why the forever immobilized Heavenly Guardians helped Li Qi Ye today.

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Chapter 19 : Always Arrogant No Matter The Occasion (1)

The Nine Saint Demon Gate elders, the more they stared at Li Qi Ye, the more annoyed they became. Why was it that a person with a Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace like Li Qi Ye was capable of communicating with their Heavenly Guardians. The gods were so unfair!

If he was a disciple of the Nine Saint Demon Gate, then it would be borderline acceptable. However, he was from a different sect. Why would our Heavenly Guardians be protecting an outsider and harming our own sect?

Demon King Lun Ri started to speak once again after the dramatic pause:

"After knowing the background, could you please tell us about your technique to control the Heavenly Guardians?"

Li Qi Ye hesitantly smiled.

"Communication technique? I don't have any technique; these are your Heavenly Guardians, you should know more about them more than I do."

Li Qi Ye naturally could not tell them the secrets behind the event. As a dark crow during the Desolate Era, he paid in blood in order to formulate a successful plan to escape the Heaven Demon Grotto. After the million years, he finally understood this particular logic: If you want to control your own destiny, you must personally possess formidable power.

Although, as the dark crow, he possessed considerable power, it was not his own power. Luckily, after entering places that no one else dared to venture, he had found out many mysterious and magical secrets. From then on, he already formulated a plan for his own personal cultivation if he ever returned to his body.

The four Heavenly Guardians of the Nine Saint Demon Gate were one of his secret preparations in the past for self-preservation. That year, he obtained them from the Land of the Old Bloods. They protected him for countless years in the past.

Later on, the Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon always wanted the four statues. He followed and begged Li Qi Ye for them nonstop. Since Nine Saint made many considerable contributions as Min Ren's Fate Protector, often at the risk of his own life, Li Qi Ye let him borrow them for his later generations.

After successfully guilting Li Qi Ye out of them, Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon immediately positioned them to protect the heaven and earth veins of the Nine Saint Demon Gate as well as allowing them to use the natural energy here to further strengthen themselves.

However, the two had an agreement. Unless the Nine Saint Demon Gate met the disaster of a sect's demise, the statues would never take action. They were not slaves nor servants of the Nine Saint Demon Gate, and they will not be the Fate Protectors of any descendants from the sect.

Since the Nine Saint Demon Gate also had a monster like the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect as its backing, it grew in power without much hindrance. Later on, during the decline of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, the Nine Saint Demon Gate was an independent existence and thus, it did not suffer together. Due to this, the Nine Saint Demon Gate had never faced a sect's demise level of disaster; the statues had never mobilized.

The statues were personally taken by Li Qi Ye from the Land of the Old Bloods, of course he knew how to communicate with them. That was why when he took the time to get on the shoulder of one of them, he also conversed with the statues.

"If Young Master Li is willing to part with the technique, the Nine Saint Demon Gate will definitely not mistreat you for the deal. Anything Young Master Li wants, just say a word and we will do it to the utmost of our abilities."

Demon King Lun Ri had not given up; he knew the real value of the Heavenly Guardians. The sect would become extremely powerful if the guardians could be controlled.

All of the elders eagerly awaited for Li Qi Ye's answer. If one statue was able able to defeat the first elder, then what would be the combined power of all four?

"You know, there really isn't a technique. I was simply gossiping with the statues; just stuff about home and life, that's all."

Li Qi Ye playfully answered with a coyish expression, acting like an innocent child.

Of course, the Demon King and the elders did not believe Li Qi Ye's answer, but they could not do anything about it. They especially could not force Li Qi Ye into giving them the technique, otherwise they'll receive an unprecedented disaster.

"However, I do need to say one thing. I need to perform a blood rite with the four statues."

Seeing the King's quiet contemplation, Li Qi Ye coldly responded, changing from his previous demeanor.

Both the King and the elders were shocked. This had a completely different meaning; to perform a blood rite with their Heavenly Guardians was comparable to a linking technique.

Demon King Lun Ri frankly responded:

"The four statues are our Heavenly Guardians."

Li Qi Ye aloofly played with his sleeves while he answered:

"They can still be your Heavenly Guardians. The only thing is, I might need to borrow them for certain things in the future; for just a little bit."

"The four statues belong to our sect. Unless it is someone of the Nine Saint Demon Gate, no one else has the rights to use them."

An elder couldn't help but exclaim. There was no such thing as letting someone borrow your Heavenly Guardians. It was too unreasonable.

Li Qi Ye glared at the elder and said:

"This is not up to you. If you have a problem with it, then go cry to your guardians."

Due to the promise that year, Li Qi Ye had to be patient when dealing with the Nine Saint Demon Gate. Otherwise, he would just have taken the statues and left.

Demon King Lun Ri suddenly interjected to calm the elder and Li Qi Ye down.

"Since Young Master Li can communicate with the guardians, having them wake up and put into action isn't a bad thing."

In reality, everyone here knew that the Nine Saint Demon Gate did not have a choice in this negotiation. Although the Nine Saint Demon Gate was powerful, it was still a bit lacking when compared to the four statues. Remember, when four parts are working together within a formation, the power increase was not simply additive, but multiplicative instead.

If it was only one statue, it would be a difficult, but not undoable, task to defeat it. However, with the four of them combined, especially situated on top of the heaven and earth's veins of the Nine Saint Demon Gate, the risk was too high.

"This is something a smart person would say."

Li Qi Ye smiled and said.

"Don't think that I would immediately cause trouble for the Nine Saint Demon Gate after I perform the rite with your Heavenly Guardians. If I wanted to do that, then all of you would not have the opportunity to sit here. If I wanted to trample through the Nine Saint Demon Gate, unless your Patriarch rises from his grave, no one could stop my footstep."

The elders were not happy with Li Qi Ye's attitude, but they couldn't say anything. The juxtaposition between the elders' raging faces versus Li Qi Ye's nonchalantly attitude was quite amusing.

"If that is the case, then Young Master Li can drop the blood."

Lun Ri agreed with Li Qi Ye. Although he doesn't know why a mortal like Li Qi Ye could control the four statues, this was his only option.

"If your sect follows the rules, I will also do the same. The four statues will remain as your Heavenly Guardians."

Li Qi Ye responded.

"Young Master Li!"

Lun Ri started speaking again after a moment of contemplation.

"Our Nine Saint Demon Gate also has a sacred ground; no one has been able to open it, however. Would you be interested in giving it a look?"

"Your Highness, this can't happen!"

An elder immediately tried to stop the King.

"It is fine for Young Master Li to check it out."

Lun Ri quickly stopped the words of this elder; his commanding voice did not allow for negotiation.

Li Qi Ye's eyes became bright, and asked:

"You are talking about the Saint Cavern that your Patriarch, Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon, left behind?"

He suddenly remembered an event from the old times.

That year, the old chicken head had once mentioned this cave to Li Qi Ye, but this was after Immortal Min Ren had received the Heaven's Will; Li Qi Ye's disposition was unstable at the time as well, wanting to go into deep slumber. After hearing the wily old chicken head's story, he didn't really listen carefully.

"That is correct!"

Li Qi Ye's knowledge of this fact rattled Lun Ri's spirit; he quickly suggested:

"If Young Master Li can open the Saint Cavern, we will give you considerable thanks."[1]

Li Qi Ye attempted to remember what the old chicken head once told him in the past, and then he asserted:

"I can try to open the Saint Cavern once. If I am successful, I want to take one thing from it, the rest can belong to your sect."

"This…"

After hearing Li Qi Ye's words, Lun Ri required some time to think. An elder spoke up:

"Your Highness, this requires more careful discussion."

[1] The thanks Lun RI uses here implies a great favor/treasure, not just courtesy

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Chapter 20 : Always Arrogant No Matter The Occasion (2)

"There is no need for discussion!"

Demon King Lun Ri commandingly asserted:

"Young Master Li can take any one thing from it, provided that you can open the Saint Cavern."

"Lun Ri, you are a smart person. Find me when you are ready; I will be taking my leave."

Li Qi Ye turned around and left the sky chamber. Yu He had to, once again, unwillingly carry him on his back.

After Li Qi Ye's departure, an elder couldn't help express:

"Your Highness, this decision regarding the Saint Cavern felt a bit rushed."

"Not necessarily."

The voice of Lun Ri started again:

"Since our inception, the Saint Cavern had always been isolated. No one had successfully opened the cave. This was a good opportunity for us, and it was in line with the Patriarch's will."

"Your Highness, what about the Heavenly Guardians? How come we have never heard of them before? What are they; Heavenly Beast or Eternal Demon?"

An elder curiously inquired.

"I'm not quite sure myself."

Demon King Lun Ri stated.

"Our knowledge and writings regarding the Heavenly Guardians are quite lacking. Only the ancient scroll of the Patriarch mentioned something about them. Unless we are at the brink of destruction, they will not activate by themselves. Only the sect masters are allowed to see this scroll."

"But they activated their power today."

Another elder conveyed.

"I do not understand it either, but if they have chosen him, they must have their own reasons for doing so."

Lun Ri replied.

"This kid, he is too scary."

The first elder opened his mouth:

"According to Yu He, he went through the Chaotic Heart Forest twice, easily. This is truly unthinkable! Now the Heavenly Guardians have chosen him as well, this world really is not fair."

"This is indeed an alarming fact. From our start to finish, we have always focused on cultivating the younger talents. Junior Leng is our strongest in terms of strength, and the Princess is the first in terms of raw aptitude, but the Heavenly Guardians did not choose them; instead, they chose a mortal boy with a Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace."

Another elder lamented.

"Of the numerous things in this world, we cannot understand all of them."

In the end, although Lun Ri felt cheated as well, he could only be acquiesced.

"Your Highness, if he can actually open the Saint Cavern, are we really giving him anything he wants?"

One elder inquired.

"That's right, it was rumored that, in the Saint Cavern, there is a big chance of an Immortal Emperor's Life Treasure hiding in there."

An unwilling Elder exclaimed.

"If he can actually open it, then it is the heaven's will."[1]

Lun Ri responded:

"According to Elder Sword, none of us in this generation would be able to open the Saint Cavern. Li Qi Ye had done many unthinkable deeds while he is here; maybe he can open the cavern."

After hearing the words "Elder Sword", no one else dared to open their mouth; because no one within the sect has more power and influence than Elder Sword, including the sect master.

"Order that, if any disciples were to reveal what happened today, they would be heavily punished. This is an iron law!"

In the end, the King declared.

They do not want outsiders to know too much regarding the Heavenly Guardians.

After Li Qi Ye's return, they had been moved to a different guest location. It was a place meant for the visiting rulers of Kingdoms and Emperors of Ancient Kingdoms; the highest level of hospitality and respect.

This treatment made Nan Huai Ren and Protector Mo afraid of receiving too much love. They understood it was because of Li Qi Ye that they were able to receive such a warm reception.

They had many questions to ask Li Qi Ye, but they didn't know where to start. They were afraid of his ability and mystery. They kept staring at him like he was an ancient monster; one that was never seen before. One thing Nan Huai Ren did figure out was that the day when Li Qi Ye went up the statue's shoulder, it was in preparation for today.

"Say whatever you want to say."

Seeing the master and disciple combo being so uncomfortable and confused, Li Qi Ye was very much amused, sitting in his chair.

Protector Mo opened his mouth like he had something say, but he didn't know where to start. He was a quiet person anyway, so he gave up and just sat down.

Compared to Protector Mo, Nan Huai Ren was just waiting for the opportunity to ask. He gathered up his courage and stuttered:

"That, that thing, was it successful?"

"What thing?"

It was Li Qi Ye's turn to be confused; he had no idea what Nan Huai Ren was implying.

"You, you know. The thing about the marriage proposal, marrying Princess Li."

"Oh, you are talking about Li Shuang Yan."

Li Qi Ye chuckled, shook his head and said:

"I did not inquire about this; I did not care about it. She is only a woman, can't reach the apex."

Li Qi Ye opened his big mouth, and again, Nan Huai Ren was at a loss for words. Remember that Li Shuang Yan was the prime descendant of the Nine Saint Demon Gate. Not only was she beautiful, she also carried an Emperor Physique, Emperor Life Wheel, and most importantly, a Fate Palace of the Saint level. Within the Grand Middle Territory, there were countless young geniuses that wanted to propose to Li Shuang Yan. However, in the end, Nan Huai Ren realized that he should not question Li Qi Ye's words.

His eyes turned to the Serpent Punishing Stick instead. This regular wooden stick had beaten a Heaven's Mandate expert into the ground; it left a deep impression ingrained in Nan Huan Ren's mind.

"Here, if you want to look at it, go ahead."

Li Qi Ye noticed the peculiar gaze, and generously threw the stick to him.

Nan Huai Ren caught it, held it carefully in his hands, and carefully observed. Even Protector Mo couldn't contain himself anymore and joined in on the fun. The two analyzed it together.

However, no matter what they did, the only result they could arrive at was that it was only a regular stick.

"This really is the wooden stick from the grand chamber, right?"

Nan Huai Ren queried.

"Correct."

Li Qi Ye nodded his head.

Nan Huai Ren swallowed and daringly asked Li Qi Ye:

"Senior, can I play around with it?"

"Look at your silly self, do whatever you want to do."

Li Qi Ye bursted out laughing.

Nan Huai Ren immediately lifted the stick to the sky and started swinging it around. However, it did not carry the same force and grace like it did in the hand of Li Qi Ye.

"Senior, why is there such a difference between our stick plays?"

Nan Huai Ren did not understand how such a regular stick was so magical when it was used by Li Qi Ye.

Li Qi Ye glanced at him and sincerely answered:

"Truly believe and it will happen."

He stopped there; he couldn't easily explain the mystical truths behind the Serpent Punishing techniques to other people.

[1] This 'heaven's will' is not the 'Heaven's Will' that allows one to become an Immortal Emperor; hence, left in lower case

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Chapter 21 – Saint Cavern (1)

The next day, after preparations were completed, the Elders invited Li Qi Ye. Yu He personally became Li Qi Ye's chaperone to take him to the deepest place of the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

With Yu He's strength and cultivation level, even in the entirety of Old Ox country, he would be an influential person. However, he was now the chaperone for Li Qi Ye; no one would believe this even if rumors were to be spread.

At the end of the Nine Saint Demon Gate was a lone mountain, and under the mountain was a sealed cave. It was unknown how long the cave had been sealed for; it was covered by wild grass and mushrooms, and the front of the cave was worn by the test of time with hallowed erosions.

This was the forbidden zone of the Nine Saint Demon Gate, only Elders and above could enter.

Legend has it that although Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon left behind his cultivation lineage for the sect, there were still certain treasures left behind in the cave. It goes on to say that, because he feared his future generations would be weak and vain, he created the Saint Cavern so there would always be a chance for revival should the actual sect be destroyed.

One thing all the Sect Masters and Elders were sure of though, was that there existed at least one Immortal Emperor Life Treasure.

When Immortal Emperor Min Ren received the Heaven's Will, it was told that he gave Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure for his accomplishments as Min Ren's fate protector. However, the descendants of Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon did not have it in their possession. This was why everyone believed that the treasure – was indeed – located in the Saint Cavern.

The Immortal Emperor Life Treasure was a weapon that Min Ren personally created during his conquest in the Nine Worlds. This Life Treasure was many times stronger than even a Virtuous Paragon True Treasure.

Although this was not an Immortal Emperor's True Treasure, a Life Treasure was enough to inspire greed from everyone.

(TL Note: This wasn't made explicitly clear before, but there are two types of treasures: True and Life. True is a much stronger version than Life because it is imbued with true energy from its master as well)

There are calligraphies ingrained to the side of the cave; radiant and alive in contrast to the surrounding scene.

"Only Demon under the Heavens"

These words exerted a powerful and majestic atmosphere. Each vivid word, vibrant with their own spirit, was highlighted with the impeccable penmanship. It was as if these heavenly words were ready to pierce the heavens at any moment; like a flying dragon or dancing phoenix. Tested by the vigor of time, for many moons, the aura of the Virtuous Paragon still remained.

These four words were left behind by Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon himself. The descendants of the Nine Saint Demon Gate all believed that this was the key to opening the Saint Cavern.

To the left side was "Only Demon under the Heavens" but the right side was left empty. That was why the descendants believed that if they could correctly match the wordplays to the right side, the cavern would be opened.

However, there were others who thought that the four words "Only Demon under the Heavens" was the real key. It hid untouchable mysterious truths; each stroke possessed supreme Merit Laws. As long as one could understand its meanings, he could open the cave himself.

Both of these predictions were tested by the disciples throughout the ages. There was one disciple with the highest innate aptitude in the Nine Saint Demon Gate who cultivated next to these words in order to understand the true meanings. Another time, the Sect Master personally went to the mortal world; he found a peerless literature expert, hoping that this person could write a matching prose to the right.

However, the cavern remained closed despite trying all of these methods throughout the years.

As for Li Qi Ye, after seeing the cavern and the words written to the left, he immediately knew how to open the cavern. However, because there were Elders watching, he couldn't immediately open it.

He stepped close to the cave, moving side to side. He randomly knocked the walls, bent down to the ground, then dejectedly shook his head as if the answer was not where he thought it was. After a while, he intensely focused on the words "Only Demon under the Heavens".

Seeing Li Qi Ye's actions, without results, made the Elders restless. However, they didn't dare say anything; they were all just holding their breaths while anxiously watching Li Qi Ye's every movement.

Eventually, he sat in a meditative pose in front of the cave. Time slowly passed by, from the morning to noon, from noon to the fall of the sun in the west. The sun reddened the sky; Li Qi Ye still remained motionless.

Li Qi Ye meditating for a whole day made the Elders lose their patience.

"Will this be a success?"

One Elder spoke to himself.

"Is this little devil just pretending?"

Seeing that there was no connection between Li Qi Ye and the cave, their trust in him started to wave. Maybe his miracles with the Chaotic Heart Forest and the four Heavenly Guardians were just that.

"Hmmph, maybe he only got lucky."

This Elder didn't actually trust what he was saying. He knew Li Qi Ye had secrets; he was only voicing his dissatisfaction of having an outsider in their sacred ground.

"Pen and ink!"

When the Elders were rambling amongst themselves, Li Qi Ye immediately stood up and said. After having sat here for a whole day, his butt was in agonizing pain.

An Elder brought him a calligraphy pen and ink; Li Qi Ye acted mysteriously. He shook his head and lamented:

"That's how it is, that's how it is! Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon is indeed unfathomable."

He then carefully dipped the pen into the ink while holding his sleeve gracefully and started writing to the right of the cave.

"Mere Chicken above the Earth"

He was not an expert calligrapher; he hastily wrote these four words. They contained zero aura, let alone, when compared to the words of the Virtuous Paragon.

(Nahct: Although in English it's five, in Chinese, they are 2 groups of four characters each.)

"Only Demon under the Heavens, Mere Chicken above the Earth"

The two lines have such opposite meanings, and did not mesh well together.

(TL: This is a historical chinese poetry play; each word has to either match or have opposite meanings for their corresponding counterparts in the same order, and the two lines also need to have the same meanings or opposite as well.)

After Li Qi Ye was finished, the Elders' faces went black because these words simply dishonored their patriarch. They were not worthy to match with the phrase "Only Demon under the Heavens."

"How bold, to shame our Nine Saint Demon Gate!"

An Elder deafeningly roared.

Li Qi Ye glared at him, and retorted:

"You are an ordinary martial artist, what would you know about the enigmatic meanings behind literature? You don't even know the thoughtfulness of your ancestor, yet you dare to stand there and scream?"

"You…"

After hearing Li Qi Ye's response, the red faced Elder was ready to explode.

"Creak… creak…"

A heavy sound rang, and the Saint Cavern started to open.

The Elders rolled their eyes; they couldn't believe what they were seeing! How could the words "Mere Chicken above the Earth" open the cave?

"How is this possible?"

Li Qi Ye perched his lips, and thought:

"Because your patriarch was a chicken that reached the apex to become a demon, that is why I wrote those words."

He naturally didn't tell them the real secret. Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon didn't used to have this name. He used to be known as Nine Saint Heavenly Demon, a name with great arrogance. When the Dark Crow Li Qi Ye asked him to become the fate protector for Min Ren, he immediately refused. He praised himself as the "Only Demon under the Heaven" which was why he chose not to be under anyone.

Since he dared to rudely say no to Li Qi Ye's invitation, it made Li Qi Ye angry; he beat up the Virtuous Paragon. He also forced him back to his original form and plucked all of his feathers out of anger, then he laughed:

"Haha, "Mere Chicken above the Earth."

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Chapter 22 : Saint Cavern (2)

Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon was not only a forest chicken successfully cultivated, but he was also of the strongest Virtuous Paragons in his era. At one point, he had gloriously swept through the Nine Worlds; his illustrious and arrogant name spread to the four corners. However, in the end, he had still lost to Li Qi Ye, and he had no choice but to become the fate protector of Immortal Emperor Min Ren.

"Only Demon under the Heavens" was the slogan of the Virtuous Paragon, while "Mere Chicken above the Earth" was Li Qi Ye's line to tease him.

Many generations of Sect Masters and geniuses of the Nine Saint Demon Gate tried to complete the second sentence, but they had always failed. No one would have guessed that it was such a silly line.

Li Qi Ye calling their patriarch an old chicken was very rude. However, if one really thinks about it, it was simply the truth.

"Let us see if your ancestor left behind anything good."

Li Qi Ye happily smiled and went into the cave, not caring about the Elders.

The Elders regained their wits and they quickly followed.

Within the holy cave, there was only one compartment. Inside, dazzling lights brilliantly shined from all of the treasures. There were Life Treasures, Immortal Irons, and Heavenly Jewels in the central area. To the right were priceless cultivation manuals and ancient scrolls. The whole room, ornamented with powerful treasures, blinded the Elders.

"The old chicken head's treasures are quite plentiful."

Li Qi Ye's eyes glanced through and murmured. Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon's reputation was well deserved; his lifelong treasures were terrifying.

"What did you say?"

An Elder nearby heard him whispering, and asked.

Li Qi Ye shook his head and replied:

"Nothing, I was just talking to myself."

This answer made all the Elders suspiciously stare at Li Qi Ye; even the Grand Elder thought the little boy was too mysterious.

"Violet Dragon Dual Sword!"

An Elder witnessed many Life Treasures floating in the air, he couldn't help but clamor:

"Demon Extinguishing Pagoda, Nine Galaxy Spoon, Heavenly Wooden Vessel. These are all treasures that have been written in an ancient scroll from the sect."

(TL note: The vessel here means a boat/ship. It is the same type of treasure as the boat in Spirit Vessel)

"This is the Qing Mu Ancient Tablet…"

One Elder was looking at the cultivation manuals and found a startling ancient technique.

At this moment, the Elders of the Nine Saint Demon Gate were dazzled; it seemed that their patriarch only left half of his treasures with the actual sect when he passed away.

"Immortal… Immortal Emperor Life Treasure!"

The First Elder's eyes moved towards a jade table in the middle of the room. There lied an ancient sealed box, but its Immortal Emperor aura was still permeating to the outside.

Even though it only revealed a strand of the power, it could be compared to the might of the high heaven; it was as if one was pressured by all the nine skies. The Heaven's Will aura flowed up and down, all around it; all worldly creatures must bow down to this remnant of an Immortal Emperor's breath.

"Immortal Emperor Life Treasure!"

The rest of the Elders that finally saw the item were shaken with anticipation. This was an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure left behind by an authentic Immortal Emperor; created by Min Ren himself.

"Don't forget, I have the right to pick the first item."

As the Elders were drowning in their excitement, Li Qi Ye opened his mouth. These words were like a bucket of cold water thrown over the faces of everyone.

Burning red eyes were staring at Li Qi Ye; if he was to take this treasure, then wouldn't their dreams be instantly shattered?

Despite the numerous death stares, Li Qi Ye still casually stood there. He wasn't afraid of them changing their mind; even if all the Elders were present, he would still act the same.

In the end, the First Elder took a deep breath and exclaimed:

"Our Nine Saint Demon Gate will do what we say; if the Emperor has made an agreement with you, we would definitely not eat our words!"

After he was done, his mouth was bitter with regrets. It was an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure, but he couldn't go back on his Sect Master's decision.

"Seems like you guys are still quite honorable."

Li Qi Ye was as calm as a tranquil well, and he slowly spoke:

"I actually do appreciate your Emperor, Lun Ri."

(TL: The word appreciate here has the connotation of an older/more powerful person praising a junior in Chinese)

These arrogant words made the Elders speechless. Their Emperor was a peerless hero; his whole life was filled with numerous achievements; not only in the Grand Middle Territory, but the whole Mortal Emperor World as well.

However, today, there was a thirteen year old running his mouth, and he dared to say that he "appreciated" Demon Emperor Lun Ri. If outsiders were to hear this, they would laugh until their teeth fell off. However, this wasn't the first time the Elders heard Li Qi Ye say something outrageous, so what could they do outside of staying silent?

"Clap, clap, clap."

Li Qi Ye clapped his hands three times and a mysterious ancient box immediately flew into his hand. He glared at the Elders and placed the box inside his shirt, then said:

"It is only an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure; there is no need to be so alarmed."

The elders of the Nine Saint Demon Gate were shocked, due to two reasons. The first was because Li Qi Ye only clapped his hands three times, then the ancient box immediately flew in this hands, this event was too strange. It also happened way too quickly, they couldn't do anything but to watch and be curious about what was inside the box. Second, in the mouth of Li Qi Ye, an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure became something unimportant. This was an Immortal Emperor Life Treasure, everyone knew what this represented, but in the words of Li Qi Ye, it was like the clouds in the sky, causing others to be shocked.

As the Elders were still adjusting to the event, Li Qi Ye had already left the cave. The Elders immediately accounted for all the treasures and began preparing them to be stored in the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

It took three days for them to accomplish the task. Yu He, once again, had to carry Li Qi Ye on his back. However, this time, he was no longer ashamed or angry; he knew the importance of Li Qi Ye to the sect.

In the Sky Chamber, all the Elders were present; only Demon Emperor Lun Ri was not there in person. When Li Qi Ye sat in his chair, Lun Ri's voice appeared in the chamber.

"I am still in the midst of my isolated meditation; it is unfortunate that I cannot meet you."

Although powerful and influential, Demon Emperor Lun Ri, was very courteous towards this thirteen year old boy.

"We still have a lot of time, there is no need to rush."

Li Qi Ye calmly answered.

Demon Emperor Lun Ri was silent for a moment, and then he requested:

"Young master Li, would you be willing to stay at the Nine Saint Demon Gate? Whatever the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect can offer you, we can also do the same!"

The Elders were not surprised by the Emperor words; it was as if they had already discussed this situation.

This proposition made Li Qi Ye contemplate for a little while. The Nine Saint Demon Gate definitely had a big advantage over the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect; many times over, even. Any cultivators, especially younger ones, would pick the Nine Saint Demon Gate without a doubt.

"Thank you for your kind intention. However, I feel a fateful connection to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect; if I currently am the Prime Disciple, then I will forever be a disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect."

Li Qi Ye had too many emotional attachments to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect; even if he did not like all the Sect Masters, especially Min Ren's first disciple. This was why, after Immortal Emperor Min Ren passed away, he never returned to the sect.

The key component for his decision was that he wanted to rebuild the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. If he did not choose the Heaven Protector Palace, then it was even more unlikely that he would choose the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

(TL: Heaven Protector Palace was in chapter 1; it is the city of the Black Dragon King.)

"Hmmph, it is only the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect; how can it compare to the Nine Saint Demon Gate?!"

An Elder was unhappy with the response, and he coldly exclaimed.

Many people wanted to join the Nine Saint Demon Gate since it was the most powerful sect in the Old Ox country. However, today, with the Demon Emperor's personal invitation, it was rejected by Li Qi Ye. He was not giving them any face.

Li Qi Ye smirkingly responded:

"A true peerless master will not care whether a sect is strong or weak; true apex does not care whether one came from a peasant house or the royal palace!"

This answer made the Elder bite his tongue because it was such a natural response with simple words; yet, it exuded confidence and strength.

Everyone stared at this thirteen year old boy who just spoke a line that contained the wisdom and willpower needed for one to reach the apex.

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Chapter 23 : Nine Saint Princess (1)

Seeing that the Elders were still contemplating about his words, Li Qi Ye softly spoke:

"If the business here is concluded, then let your prime descendant come out and meet me. No matter how heaven defying a genius is, they have nothing to brag about in front of me!"

This thirteen year old boy kept saying outrageous things; however, it seemed natural when it was he who was the one speaking – like it was a matter of fact.

Demon Emperor Lun Ri gave his heavenly order:

"Shuang'er, come out and meet young master Li."

When prime descendant Li Shuang Yan appeared in the Sky Chamber, her beauty brightened the place; a peerless beauty in this generation that people could not stop offering praises to.

This was a girl around the age of eighteen. Her features resembled a masterpiece painting; her thinly plucked eyebrows were arched perfectly around her shining crescent eyes. Her charming little crimson lips accentuated her alluring face. However, her expression was as cold as ice and arrogance could be contrived from the aura between her eyebrows and her pure white robe.

Li Shuang Yan was the prime descendant of the Nine Saint Demon Gate as well as the number one beauty in Old Ox country. Not only that, her aptitude and cultivation level match her peerless looks as well.

Such a child blessed by the heavens, it would be natural for her not wanting to be wed to a person that only had a mortal Physique, mortal Life Wheel, and mortal Fate Palace. Plus, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had already gone downhill, his position as the Prime Disciple was meaningless.

Li Qi Ye wasn't overly surprised by the peerless beauty and pride-worthy talents of Li Shuang Yan. As he floated through the endless currents of time, he had seen many beauties. When it came to talents and beauty, how many women could compare to Immortal Emperor Xiu Shu and Immortal Emperor Bing Yu?

After taking a close look at Li Shuang Yan, Li Qi Ye nodded his head.

"Not too bad."

Li Shuang Yan had a favorable opinion of Li Qi Ye after his first sentence, but the second enraged her. Li Qi Ye continued his thought:

"She is still a bit lacking to be my wife. Saint Fate Palace is also moderately acceptable. I am currently lacking a sword maid; you can be my sword maid then."

"You!"

Not only Li Shuang Yan, but the Elders were enraged as well. Li Shuang Yan was not only the prime descendant, but she was also their pride. The whole Nine Saint Demon Gate put their hopes onto her. However, today, Li Qi Ye dared to arrogantly announce that he wanted her to be his sword slave; this was a complete slap to the face for them.

Not waiting for their retorts, Li Qi Ye slowly continued:

"I don't like to force anyone. Think over it carefully; if you agree, then you can find me at the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect."

He stopped and stared at Li Shuang Yan.

After hearing his words, she was shakingly maddened. Everywhere she went, she was the moon surrounded by the stars. Young geniuses that wanted to marry her could form a waiting line from the east to the west of Old Ox country.

However, right now, a boy that had not grown hair dared to presumptuously ask her to be his sword maid? The boy looks very cute on the outside but in Li Shuang Yan's eyes, he was extremely unlikable.

"You are being too arrogant!"

The Elders exclaimed. A descendant of the Nine Saint Demon Gate was only worthy of being a sword maid? The boy was clearly trying to humiliate the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

"It is up to you to take a chance. I have given you the opportunity; whether you can grasp it or not will depend on your fate."

Li Qi Ye ignored the Elders, took one last glance at Li Shuang Yan, and then left.

Li Shuang Yan's icy expression was overtaken by red anger, and her milky breasts bounced from heavy breathing. She had met many arrogant people, but someone like Li Qi Ye was the first. The worst thing was that he was only thirteen. She was five years older than him, yet he dared to act that way in front of her. People say children are cute, but Li Qi Ye was anything but cute in Li Shuang Yan's eyes.

"Your highness, he dared to disrespect us like this; we can't easily forgive him!"

An Elder raged indignantly.

Demon Emperor Lun Ri quietly answered:

"A true dragon will fly to the nine heavens; a godly phoenix will sweep the nine worlds. A dragon or a phoenix, my eyes are eager to see!"

After coming back to his guest house, Nan Huai Ren quickly ran over and asked:

"Senior, how is your marriage with princess Li?"

Protector Mo was also curious. He also knew that the Nine Saint Demon Gate highly valued Li Qi Ye; there was a high chance that this arranged marriage would be successful.

Today, when the Nine Saint Demon Gate formally invited Li Qi Ye, he thought chances were that they wanted to talk about the marriage.

"What marriage?"

Li Qi ye stared at Nan Huai Ren and said:

"I never said I was going to marry her. If she was willing, I would take her in as a maid."

"Mai… Mai… Mai… Maid!"

Nan Huai Ren started stuttering; Li Qi Ye's words had shocked him.

"You were truly confused!"

If this was before, he would be reprimanding Li Qi Ye. However, now, when he was standing in front of him, he felt that his position was naturally lower. Protector Mo didn't dare to scold him from the perspective of a senior.

"She is only a girl, no need to be so terrified."

Li Qi Ye essentially didn't mind. Li Shuang Yan was indeed worthy of his tutelage; however, when compared to Immortal Emperor Bing Yu, she was quite lacking.

Afterwards, Li Qi Ye had finally completed his blood rite with the four statues. With this done, this trip had been a complete success, so he wanted to return to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

During this time, the Elders did not show their face; same for Li Shuang Yan. Li Qi Ye did not really care for what they were planning.

"If we return, what do we report on this?"

Before the departure, Protector Mo hesitantly asked Li Qi Ye.

Li Qi Ye glanced back and smiled:

"This depends on your choice; do you want to be on my side or the Elders'?"

These were simple words, but they scared Protector Mo. He was not a dumb person; to become a Protector, he had to surpass many difficulties and encounters.

Nan Huai Ren couldn't help but stare at his master. He was even more wily than Protector Mo and he knew how to pick the opportunity and read people's intentions.

Their positions in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect couldn't be considered low. One was a hall master, and the other was one of the twelve Protectors. Protector Mo was only below the Elders and the Sect Master. If he was to join a new disciple, anyone would say that was an unwise decision.

Protector Mo hadn't responded yet, but Nan Huai Ren saw the light in this moment. He saw a new door opening right in front of him.

"Master!"

Nan Huai Ren took a deep breath and reminded Protector Mo.

Protector Mo's heart was swaying. As his master, how could he not know what his disciple's thoughts were? However, this was such an unbelievable story; he, as a Protector, having to be under the command of a new disciple? This was crazy!

"Whatever you say, I will immediately do just that!"

In the end, Protector Mo, heavily so, made the most important decision of his life at that moment; one that would carry special significance.

Protector Mo thought he was becoming senile; he couldn't believe he had just become an underling to a new disciple. Not only that, he had to hide the many events that had happened, recently.

TL's note: One of the things that readers might have noticed and commented on is how arrogant and powerful Li Qi Ye is, but no one really thinks about the fact that he is something else other than a young boy. In other xian xia, reincarnations and soul takeover is very common. A strong cultivator can become young again. However, in this one, you will find that it has a different approach to what happens after "death". This is why all of the elders and Lun Ri didn't think that Li Qi Ye was a reincarnated immortal or that someone else took over his body because the mirror would have spotted it. They see him for what he is: a thirteen year old boy in his own body.

Nere's note: This is for those that are or were still confused about this matter. If there is anything else that has you baffled, feel free to ask us in the comments; we will do our best to clear things up for you.

Nahct's note: Sorry guys, I wasn't available to edit chapters 22 and 23 when they were posted. As such, things that I normally edit were not caught by Nere. I have gone through c22/23 and updated them.

If you find any errors ( broken links, non-standard content, etc.. ), Please let us know report chapter so we can fix it as soon as possible.

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Chapter 24 : Nine Saint Princess (2)

If this was brought to light, it would be an act of traitorous treason against the sect. Only a crazy person or a fool would do such a thing. Protector Mo felt like he belonged to one of those two groups. However, his intuition told him that in the future, they would have unlimited potential if they were to follow this thirteen year old boy. However, in the end, this was only based on intuition.

Nan Huai Ren's heart was startled as well. This was a very significant life choice, and his master had already chosen his destiny. Nan Huai Ren knew what his answer would be:

"With just one word from senior, and I will jump through any fire and water without hesitation!"

Nan Huai Ren said in an utmost and serious manner after heavy inhaling.

Before, when he called Li Qi Ye "senior", it had a different meaning. It was because it was part of the sect's custom. Now, the word "senior" had a different connotation.

A thirteen year old almost turned the Nine Saint Demon Gate upside down, he dared to underestimate the Elders that were crowned Royal Nobles, and he was able to speak calmly in front of the Demon Emperor! Other people would think Li Qi Ye was too arrogant, or he did not know his own strength; however, that was because they did not see him traversing the Chaotic Heart Forest and killing Protector Hua and his disciple. Nan Huai Ren understood that other people's perception of Li Qi Ye was completely inaccurate.

Li Qi Ye, as the Prime Disciple of Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, dared to kill a Protector and asked for the Nine Saint Demon Gate's princess to be a maid. He had already planned everything before stepping into the Nine Saint Demon Gate, knowing that he could walk out unscathed.

Nan Huai Ren was very smart, and he thought about it carefully. Even if he tried his hardest his whole life, his peak would be becoming an Elder for the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. Maybe Li Qi Ye's appearance would change his destiny.

Seeing these two join his ranks, Li Qi Ye nodded his head and boldly announced:

"One day, you two will understand how wise of a decision you have made today."

"What should we report when we return to the sect?"

Protector Mo prudently asked. The events linked to the trial and marriage have too much significance; he did not know what was okay to say.

Li Qi Ye smiled at Protector Mo and answered:

"If Elder Yun wants to speak with you, then in my opinion, you should do the following…"

What Li Qi Ye told him to do made Protector Mo feel uneasy. Before their departure, the First Elder of the Nine Saint Demon Gate had met him and asked that the story regarding the Heavenly Guardians be kept a secret. At that moment, Protector Mo had not agreed to the request.

"I understand."

Protector Mo knew what he should and shouldn't say as long as the chosen rhetoric benefitted him and Li Qi Ye.

Finally, the three of them left the Nine Saint Demon Gate. Grand Protector Yu He personally went to see them off. In recent times, no one from the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had ever received such an honor.

The gateway was opened, and the portal between the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect and Nine Saint Demon Gate activated. Finally, the group of three had returned home. After leaving the temple, they took a deep breath and basked in the heavenly spirits of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect; they thought about the events that transpired and felt like they had just woken up from a dream.

Returning to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, as the one who was leading the trip for the trial between the two sects, Protector Mo immediately went to meet the Six Elders to give his report. Li Qi Ye went back to his mountain peak.

Li Qi Ye stood quietly on top of his peak, overlooking the entirety of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. He remembered when Immortal Emperor Min Ren was still alive; the area of the sect spanned a million miles, and its refined energy was as expansive as the ocean.

Now, not only had the area governed by the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect decreased, but its refined energy from the surroundings was slowly drying. Anyone standing in this land would feel that the world essence of the sect had become very thin.

Today, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect was like a flickering candle in the wind or an elderly man that could meets his end at any moment.

Li Qi Ye sighed in his heart. He did not pick the Heaven Protector Palace or the War God Temple; not even the Nine Saint Demon Gate. He ultimately chose the ever declining Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

As aforementioned, he did not like the previous Sect Masters of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. That year, he hoped that Min Ren would pick a different disciple to become the next Sect Master, even when this disciple's talents were not as strong as the first disciple. Li Qi Ye valued him greatly for his character instead. Unfortunately, after he woke up from his deep slumber, he found that the first disciple had became the new Sect Master and proclaimed his sect to be the traditional orthodox sect.

Li Qi Ye had never liked the type of people who considered themselves as the only ones who were orthodox, which was why he had never returned to the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect or cared about its ups and downs.

However, in this era, where he had regained his true body, it was fateful that the first person he met was San Gui Ye from the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. Li Qi Ye had single-handedly taught Min Ren; in a sense, he was the true creator of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. He was confident that he could reignite its old glory. One day, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, under his command, would sweep through the heavens and earth, reigning over the Nine Worlds.

Li Qi Ye was so lost in his thoughts that he did not notice Nan Huai Ren's arrival.

"Senior, the Elders wish to see you."

Nan Huai Ren waited until Li Qi Ye was finished contemplating before he spoke.

Li Qi Ye slightly nodded his head and followed Nan Huai Ren into the Grand Chamber. The Six Elders had gathered there beforehand, and all of them had their eyes set on Li Qi Ye.

The atmosphere in the Grand Chamber suddenly became strangely dignified and calm. Everyone had their own thoughts.

The Six Elders previously had heard Protector Mo's report on the events regarding the trials, but Protector Mo did not reveal everything. He concentrated on Li Qi Ye's passing through the Chaotic Heart Forest, he purposely left the fight with Xu Hui intentionally vague, he did not mention the Serpent Punishing Stick, or Li Qi Ye's control of the four Heavenly Guardians. In the end, he even concluded that Li Qi Ye's victory over Xu Hui was pure luck.

"You have successfully passed the trial?"

The First Elder formally asked Li Qi ye. The truth was, the Six Elders did not have any confidence regarding this arranged marriage, but the impossible had happened. Li Qi Ye passed the trial, but the more surprising detail was that he could go through the Chaotic Heart Forest.

"Honorable Elder, that is right! It seems like I should be getting the rewards promised to me, yes?"

Li Qi Ye ignored the serious atmosphere in the chamber, and exclaimed:

"Of course there will be rewards, but I need you to explain one thing."

First Elder inquired:

"From what I've heard, Xu Hui was a renown young disciple from the Nine Saint Demon Gate. His cultivation was the same as a sectional leader in our sect. You just joined our sect and had never cultivated before, how did you manage to defeat him?"

"Honorable Elder, Merit Laws are complex; martial arts are simple. I practiced the "Invisible Dual Blade" technique in a strange manner; as long as the opponent revealed a weakness in their defense, he will immediately receive a death blow. When it comes to a life and death battle, the brave person will win."

Li Qi Ye calmly answered.

"Nonsense!"

An Elder named Xiong suddenly yelled and coldly continued:

"A mortal proclaiming that he had killed a Heaven's Mandate cultivator through sheer techniques is ridiculous."

This Elder Xiong before had supported Li Qi Ye; however, today, he spoke coldly, and he was even unhappy; the before and after was like the sky against the depths.

(Nahct: This is another proverb, comparing the two great extremes.)

Li Qi Ye looked at Elder Xiong and spoke slowly:

"Dear Elder, I had only spoken the truth. What other people can't do does not mean that I can't as well."

He then looked at the remaining Elders in the room:

"Dear Elders, today, I am a hero from the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. If the Elders truly think that I had cheated in some way, then you guys can question the people who saw it with their own eyes; people like Protector Mo or the people of the Nine Saint Demon Gate."

"All of the Elders know, in your hearts, that this trip to the Nine Saint Demon Gate was dangerously ominous. By going to the Nine Saint Demon Gate, we were essentially going to our own demise. However, because of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect's reputation, even if I were to lose my life, I would have done the same again. Today, I come back as a hero. what is the reasoning behind your suspicions of me? This is how you treat a hero? If this is the reality, then the people's hearts will become cold; who will want to sacrifice themselves for the sect anymore?"

Li Qi Ye paused a moment and then he went on:

"Before our departure, we had an agreement; do you honorable Elders wish to retract your words? If that is the case, then I can only say my joining of this sect was a mistake. Our Cleansing Incense Ancient Act is of Immortal Emperor lineage for many era; if the elders are not true to their words, then how can we remained trustworthy as a sect?"

"Whether our sect is trustworthy or not, it is not up to you to comment."

An Elder loudly yelled.

Li Qi Ye ignored the reaction of this Elder and kept going on:

"I risked my life going into the Nine Saint Demon Gate and came out with a complete success. If the Elders carried out the promise from that day without accusing me of lying, I would not be criticizing. Otherwise, I will cry 'unfair' because the success of this trip was potentially traded with my life."

Finished speaking, Li Qi Ye coldly glared at the Six Elders.

"You have said too much!"

At this moment, an Elder coughed. His expression contained a little bit of shame.

The First Elder started speaking:

"Qi Ye, it is not that we wanted to berate you; the thing is, this whole thing is just a little strange. Let's set aside the Xu Hui thing; I want to hear how you successfully passed the Chaotic Heart Forest."

The First Elder's eyes brightened up and stared at Li Qi Ye as if he wanted to see through the little boy.

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Chapter 25 : Heavenly Crow Peak (1)

Right now, not only just the First Elder, but the rest were also trying to read Li Qi Ye's mind. If killing Xu Hui could be attributed to luck, then it was also due to his arrogance that Li Qi Ye was able to sneak an attack on him. Fate was unpredictable, and a person could be lucky sometimes.

However, the Chaotic Heart Forest was not like that at all. The Six Elders were aware that during the last one hundred thousand years, no one from the young generation had successfully passed through all of the levels, unless that person was of the Virtuous Paragon level.

Being pressured by the Six Elders' gazes, Protector Mo and Nan Huai Ren were sweating in place of Li Qi Ye.

"Honorable Elders, the Chaotic Heart Forest was meant as a way to test the minds of those who have entered. It can't be consider a cultivation strength test. As long as one's spiritual willpower is enough, then he can cross through the whole forest; it has nothing to do with one's cultivation."

Li Qi Ye responded to the First Elder's question.

"Hmmmph, your mortal spiritual willpower is stronger than a Royal Noble's?"

Elder Xiong unhappily exclaimed.

Li Qi Ye furrowed his brows, and said:

"Elder, spiritual power has nothing to do with cultivation strength. A high cultivation achievement does not equate to strong willpower. Throughout the ages, plenty of Enlightened Beings and Heavenly Emperors, due to their unstable willpower, have suffered a pitiful death from Qi Deviation."

(TL: I will use Qi Deviation here. The literal translation is "bursting into fire and joining the demons")

"This thing… who doesn't know how high the sky is or the range of the earth? A person like you dares to criticize Enlightened Beings and Heavenly Emperors?"

Elder Xiong quietly spoke.

Li Qi Ye impatiently said:

"I've only spoken the truth. If the Elders want to keep on thinking that I am lying, then you can go to the Nine Saint Demon Gate and verify the truth!"

Seeing Li Qi Ye losing his patience, Elder Xiong rolled his eyes and a storm was about to brew, but the First Elder coughed and interjected:

"We'll let this go as well. How about your marriage with Princess Li?"

Even though they weren't content with his explanations regarding Xu Hui and the Chaotic Heart Forest, the most important thing was the marriage. The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect and the Nine Saint Demon Gate needed to be in laws! The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect needed a strong backing like Nine Saint Demon Gate.

"This matter you will have to ask the Nine Saint Demon Gate; it is not my decision."

Li Qi Ye no longer wanted to continue this conversation, and he abruptly answered:

"The discussion concludes here!"

The First Elder had no choice but to give up. They couldn't force Li Shuang Yan to marry Li Qi Ye; they lacked the strength to negotiate with the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

The First Elder continued:

"You have done a great deed for the sect. According to our prior agreement, anything that was promised will be given to you…"

"Brother Gu…"

Elder Xiong wanted to interject, but the First Elder softly gestured with his sleeves, telling Elder Xiong to be quiet.

The First Elder stared at Li Qi Ye and continued:

"First, once you have reached the stage of Yun Physique, we will grant you an King Grade medicinal paste. Second, for Physique, Life Wheel, and Fate Palace techniques; you will get to pick one cultivation method for each of the three. Of course, you can also pick different techniques, but you may pick no more than three manuals. Are you satisfied with this?"

"That is fine! However, I still have one more request."

Li Qi Ye nodded his head.

The First Elder responded:

"You may, tell us."

"I still need a weapon, so I want to pick a Life Treasure or a True Treasure!"

Li Qi Ye replied.

The First Elder agreed:

"Fine. From the Life Treasures, True Treasures, and Life Wheel Treasures below the third floor, you can pick any of them."

"My gratitude, Elder."

Li Qi Ye respectfully gestured his hands, and then turned around to leave.

"Huai Ren, you go with Qi Ye!"

The First Elder commanded Nan Huai Ren after Li Qi Ye had left.

After Li Qi Ye's departure, Elder Xiong proclaimed:

"Brother Gu, I'm afraid this boy is problematic. He might be a spy sent from the Nine Saint Demon Gate."

"How can you say that brother Cao Xiong?"

A different Elder slowly shook his head and disagreed:

"Personally, I don't think that is the case. The Nine Saint Demon Gate currently is many times stronger than we are. They are reigning over the Old Ox country and are already a gigantic monster; why would they need to have a spy in our sect?"

"Brother Sun speaks with reason."

An Elder agreed:

"The Nine Saint Demon Gate has no need to be devious against us."

"That is not for certain; maybe the Nine Saint Demon Gate covets our Emperor Merit Laws or even our Heaven's Will Merit Laws."

Elder Xiong spoke with a grave manner.

After hearing these words, the rest of the five Elders stared at each other.

"I don't think that would be necessary."

Fourth Elder Sun shook his head and said:

"Li Qi Ye had the Cleansing Incense Ancient Order. If he wanted our Emperor Merit Laws, he only needed to open his mouth and we couldn't say no. Take a step back; if the Nine Saint Demon Gate truly wanted our Emperor Merit Laws, who here could stop Demon Emperor Lun Ri in our sect?"

This resonated with the rest of the Elders, and they contemplated silently. If the Nine Saint Demon Gate truly wanted the Emperor Merit Laws, then they could annihilate all of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. If Demon Emperor Lun Ri personally took action, no one in the sect could stop him. In reality, even the Elders of the Nine Saint Demon Gate would have been enough.

"Brother Gu, I feel like we cannot be careless; precautions are necessary."

In the end, Elder Xiong quietly stated:

"This has to be reported to the Sect Master!"

The First Elder formally announced; he didn't show his feelings regarding the topic.

"So be it!"

Elder Xiong slightly scowled; his voice contained unfavorable opinions regarding the Sect Master.

-The Elders think you are a spy from the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

After leaving the chamber, Nan Huai Ren whispered to Li Qi Ye. He was a sharp person; his best discipline was predicting the thoughts of other people; of course, he knew what the Six Elders were thinking.

"They can think whatever they want."

Li Qi Ye only smiled. The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect's weakening was not without reasons. Although the six are Elders, their cultivation couldn't be higher than Royal Nobles. More importantly, they couldn't work independently and make decisive decisions.

Regarding this topic, Li Qi Ye asked:

"What about Elder Xiong?"

That day, when he wanted to be the Prime Disciple, Elder Xiong was supporting him. However, his behavior today was contrasting the past.

"Be careful of Elder Xiong."

Nan Huai Ren looked left and right, then he whispered:

"Second Elder Cao Xiong was competing for the Sect Master position with the current Sect Master, but he failed. Later on, he wanted his disciple, Leng Shizhi, to become the Prime Disciple, but he was rejected by the Sect Master. Regarding the Sect Master position, he had always wanted it. Even if he couldn't climb to the position, he would wish for his disciple to become the Sect Master. Plus, Cao Xiong's backing included the guest masters."

"I understand. If I was a piece of trash, then I couldn't become the Sect Master; even if I were the Prime Disciple. If I have relations with Li Shuang Yan, then it is another matter."

Li Qi Ye understood Elder Xiong's contrasting intentions.

Nan Huai Ren nodded his head and added:

"Elder Xiong has always paid attention to the Sect Master; he feared that the Sect Master would take in a genius Prime Disciple. Due to the Prime Disciple seat having always been empty, he had discussed with the Elders numerous times about promoting Leng Shizhi. However, the Sect Master has always declined."

"Well, where is the Sect Master?"

Li Qi Ye felt it was strange that after him joining the sect, he had never met the Sect Master, Su Yong Huang.

Nan Huai Ren didn't know the answer:

"Sect Master had never stayed within the sect. She had always cultivated outside; in reality, I've only met her a couple of times."

Nan Huai Ren started whispering because he saw people nearby:

"There is a rumor within the sect. It is that Sect Master was forced to leave by the Elders. No one knew the specifics. In short, when the Sect Master left the sect, she also brought along some Protectors and Leaders as well."

Li Qi Ye stroke his chin, and conjectured:

"From this, it seems like there are a lot of internal fighting within the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. It appears that the current situation of the sect is a lot more complicated than I first thought."

"Some say there are four factions."

Nan Huai Ren answered:

"There are a number of Protectors and Leaders with the Sect Master. Some Leaders are with Elder Xiong, and they hope that Elder Xiong will become the Sect Master. Another group belongs to the First Elder while the remaining four Elders have always been neutral."

"The First Elder also wants to be the Sect Master?"

Li Qi Ye inquired.

Nan Huai Ren shook his head:

"No one knows what the First Elder is thinking. He had not supported the Sect Master completely, but he also had never competed for the role. However, his influence is great in the sect. He controls the disciplinary squad in the sect and is very strict. Thus, the majority of the disciples are scared of him."

From Nan Huai Ren's words, Li Qi Ye had a grasp of the current situation of the sect. Thinking about it, Li Qi Ye lightly chuckled and did not speak on it anymore.

Heavenly Crow Peak was an important location of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect. Some even said that it was a forbidden ground. WIthout permission from the Sect Master or the Elders, no disciple could enter the peak.

Also, the Heavenly Crow Peak was the highest mountain in all of the sect. On top of it was a triangular old building. In here lies all the manuals, techniques, life treasures, jewels, metals, and everything valuable of the sect.

The mountain was heavily fortified. There were patrols every three steps as well as a defense post every five; even a mosquito wouldn't be able to get through. The entirety of the peak was also protected by the elite disciples and two rotating Elders of the sect.

To the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, the Heavenly Crow Peak was too important. The most valuable things of the sect were all located on this mountain.

In addition, there was also a legend regarding the Heavenly Crow Peak. It was said that before Immortal Emperor Min Ren's ascension, he was blessed by the will of the heavens. The heavens sent him a godly crow from the sky. It arrived at the top of this peak, and Min Ren was taught by this crow. This was why the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect was situated around this mountain.

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Chapter 26 : Heavenly Crow Peak (2)

Li Qi Ye brightly smiled after hearing Nan Huai Ren's tale regarding the origin of the Heavenly Crow Peak. The name, simply put, was coined by Min Ren's generals to commemorate him.

The Ancient Triangular School on top of the peak was not too great in size, but the whole building was pure black; it was as if it was crafted with black steel and had a heavy feeling to it. In reality, no one in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect knew what the building was made out of.

Once Li Qi Ye and Nan Huai Ren had arrived in front of the black building, Li Qi Ye's heart was shaken. Many years had passed, but this building still stood strong; its secret origin exceeded the imaginations of contemporaries.

During his moments of reminiscing, his eyes were attracted to a big shrine in front of the black building. From his memories, this shrine had not existed here during the time when the black building was established.

In front of the shrine, a man with great stature could be found sitting down in a cultivating position. One couldn't guess his age because of his long, messy hair and untrimmed beard that covered his entire face. There were weeds and grass that had grown around his body; who knows how long the man had been sitting there?

The eyes of the man remained shut; if it wasn't for his regular and consistent breathing, people would have thought that this was a dried up corpse.

However, the most surprising thing was that his arms and legs were constrained by huge, metal chains. Other people may not know, but Li Qi Ye recognized that these chains were made from Black Spider Consolidated Steel, an extremely rare metal of immortal grade.

What kind of person would be worthy of having chains made from Black Spider steel? Not only that, it seemed that the man in front of him was willing to be imprisoned instead of being forced.

Seeing Li Qi Ye's interest towards the man in front of the shrine, Nan Huai Ren softly whispered:

"This is the protector of the triangular building; no one knows his background or origin."

"Why is he chained there?"

Li Qi Ye questioned while staring at the man.

Nan Huai Ren shook his head and responded:

"No one knows; I'm afraid no one in the entire sect knows the answer to that question. It is said that he had been chained there for a long time; my master doesn't even know why. Some say that he was a disciple of the sect; however, he had committed a grave offense, and that is why he is chained there."

Li Qi Ye tilted his head and stopped the conversation. He instead, went into the triangular building with Nan Huai Ren.

Once they were in the building, the chained man opened his eyes. The ensuing gaze possessed an extremely fearful atmosphere; it was as if he could see through the infinity and tear open the primordial cosmos. This gaze would make Royal Nobles and Enlightened Beings tremble with fear. However, he then closed his eyes; it was like nothing had happened.

From an outside view, the triangular building appeared to be small. However, once inside, there was a big, open area ranging many hundreds of acres. Three majestic pagodas were built together closely to form this triangular formation. Without a trace of doubt, this building was built and crafted with an unrivaled technique for it to have its own magical space.

"Over here is the Scripture Library, that one is the Weapon Armory, and over there is the Treasure House. These three pagodas of the triangular building are divided into three sections, each for techniques, weapons, and treasures."

After entering the building, Nan Huai Ren explained:

-Each pagoda will have an assigned protector. Any student who wants an item would have to pass through the protector's inspection.

Here, he asked Li Qi Ye:

"Where does senior want to go first?"

"Let us start at the Scripture Library."

Li Qi Ye quickly glanced over the three pagodas and made his decision.

There were eight inner disciples protecting the Scripture Library alongside a protector. Once Nan Huai Ren and Li Qi Ye showed them the Elder's order, they were immediately allowed to enter.

Then, came the indescribable feeling that arose from entering the majestic library. Inside, one couldn't see the end of the sections. The incomparable vastness of this library was tantamount to the old glory days of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

There were quite a few disciples present here, that were searching for suitable techniques. Nan Huai Ren was a social person, thus, he went to make conversations with each of the disciples.

Li Qi Ye was different; he was new, and the disciples here didn't like him in the first place. Even though the sect had fallen, it was still of Immortal Emperor lineage; it was not normal for a mortal to be accepted into the sect, let alone becoming the Prime Disciple.

The more outrageous thing was that he was considered to be a piece of trash with a Mortal Physique, a Mortal Life Wheel, and a Mortal Fate Palace. The Prime Disciple should be the strongest of all and respected by his peers. This position was coveted by many, who had spent their time and talents contributing to the sect. However, they were not chosen by the Sect Master. This, rightfully infuriated the disciples; to see someone so undeserving to occupy the position.

Even though they didn't dare to question the Elder's decision, they were definitely not going to be courteous to Li Qi Ye.

"That person is Li Qi Ye."

A disciple looked at Li Qi Ye from top to bottom; it was as if he was looking at a monster. In reality, many people wanted to steal the Cleansing Incense Ancient Order, even within the sect, but no one had ever been successful. However, all of a sudden, that old man decided to give such a treasure to Li Qi Ye; no one could make heads or tails out of this.

"That's him. I heard he invited San Gui Ye to the brothel for ten days and ten nights."

A disciple presumptuously added.

A disciple acted as if he knew more about this situation and shook his head:

"You are incorrect; it wasn't just ten days and ten nights. He bought the old man a pair of twins who were still virgins that had only recently joined the brothel. He bought them for the next three years to service the old man; this was why that perverted geezer agreed to give him the Order."

Some stories slowly became more and more embellished. One person even said that Li Qi Ye paid the brothel to service San Gui Ye for the next ten years; which allowed him to do whatever deeds he wanted to do. Although there were minor differences, the main points of the topics all revolved around Li Qi Ye using an underhanded method to fool San Gui Ye for the sake of obtaining the order.

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Chapter 27 : Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law (1)

"Hmmph, I can't believe the Elders would let such a shameless piece of trash become the Prime Disciple. This kid is truly a disgrace of our Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect."

A student yelled out.

Another student thought something was strange and inquired:

"Isn't he currently going through the trial at the Nine Saint Demon Gate? Why is he back so early?"

"Hah, of course the trial was a failure. How could such a person become the partner of the Nine Saint Demon Gate princess. It is like dreaming during the day; clearly, he is a frog wanting to eat swan's meat."

Another student pompously commented.

The Six Elders haven't announced Li Qi Ye's success in the trial because they haven't yet understood the Nine Saint Demon Gate's intentions behind the order. Without their agreement, the Elders didn't dare to announce the marriage between Li Qi Ye and Li Shuang Yan. If Li Shuang Yan actually didn't agree to the wedding, and they had announced it; it would be a blur on her purity, and such an action could enrage the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

After hearing the comments from the other disciples in the sect, Nan Huai Ren was both embarrassed and indignant, but he couldn't reveal the secrets regarding what had actually occurred at the Nine Saint Demon Gate.

As for the victim of these negative remarks, Li Qi Ye himself was strolling, unaffected, through the library. He acted as if he didn't hear a single word; he continued on to calmly look through the many manuals on the shelves, one by one.

Tiger's Power law, Heavenly Cocoon Life technique, Revolving Moon law, Iron Ox Emperor Physique… Each of these manuals were placed on the shelves. Some were the original versions while some were copied by hand. Others were restored from ruined manuals, and some were inscribed on stone tablets. There were manuals for all purposes: from physique building techniques to longevity laws to increase blood energy as well as cultivational methods to build the Fate Palace…

"There are many different manuals here, collected by many generations of paragons; some were even created by them. The others were taken from other sects or different inheritances."

Nan Huai Ren spoke to Li Qi Ye:

"If senior wants an Emperor level manual, senior would have to go up to the third level. The manuals in the first level are the elementary techniques, anyone can learn these. The second level has manuals meant for disciples with contributions to the sect or the different sectional leaders."

Li Qi Ye was not in a rush; he continued on skimping the different manuals, but he already had some in mind. He started from the first level all the way to level three. During the way, he saw one or two Emperor level manuals, but they were not formidable ones.

During this process, he found out one thing. The higher up he went, the shelves started to contain less manuals. Some of the shelves were classified, but they did not have any manuals. This meant that there used to be scrolls here, but they were now gone.

"There is no way that these manuals were given or lent away?"

Li Qi Ye looked around on the third level and inquired.

Nan Huai Ren shook his head:

"I heard that we have lost a numerous amount of manuals."

Here, he looked around for a moment, then whispered:

"My master told me, the truth is, our Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect does not have that many Emperor manuals left. The most crucial ones are at the end of this building, but there are only around three to five left. If we lose these manuals, then we would be an Immortal Emperor sect only in title."

After Min Ren's ascension, he spent most of his life creating numerous Emperor level techniques and Merit Laws. Some of his manuals had the abilities to connect with the heavens; there were rumors that he even left behind Heaven's Will Forbidden Laws.

"Did other people ransack us?"

Li Qi Ye naturally knew how many Emperor level manuals the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had. It didn't only contain the ones that Min Ren had created, but also those that Li Qi Ye himself personally stole from other people. Some dated back to the Desolate Era, and some were from the hands of Heavenly Demons, Blood Tribes, Golem Races, High Elves, and Ancient Min… To sum it up, in short, Li Qi Ye had pillaged many secrets from the inhabitants of the Nine Worlds.

"I don't know the exact details of the ordeal. I heard that fifty thousand years ago, our genius ancestor lost a fight, and we suffered a great disaster. Another sky-shattering accident happened thirty thousand years ago, and we lost many manuals from that as well. Another rumor has it that some of our Emperor manuals were sealed in the last three levels by Grand Elder Mu; however, some said that the Heavenly God Sect took all of our manuals when they defeated us in the last thirty thousand years war."

"You are talking about Young Emperor Mu?"

The words of Nan Huai Ren reminded Li Qi Ye of fifty thousand years ago, there was a great genius in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

"Yes, it was Grand Elder Mu."

When it came to Young Emperor Mu, Nan Huai Ren's blood boiled in pride; he passionately continued:

"From the legends, fifty thousand years ago, Grand Elder Mu had the greatest potential to become an Immortal Emperor in our sect after Immortal Emperor Min Ren. He was the strongest rival of Immortal Emperor Ta Kong. I heard that when Grand Elder Mu was competing with Immortal Emperor Ta Kong to win the Heaven's Will, he won three times and lost three times. Even with his heavenly aptitude, Immortal Emperor Ta Kong still lost three times to Grand Elder Mu. That year, we were at our strongest after the era of Immortal Emperor Min Ren. We were able to dominate all of the Mortal Emperor world, not just the Grand Middle Territory."

Nan Huai Ren couldn't stop speaking regarding Young Emperor Mu because he was the biggest pride of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect after Immortal Emperor Min Ren.

"But in the end, the one that had received the Heaven's Will was still Immortal Emperor Ta Kong."

Opposite of Nan Huai Ren's excitement, Li Qi Ye simply said.

Li Qi Ye's words were like a cold water bucket hitting the face of Nan Huai Ren. He suddenly lost his will to speak and dejectedly said:

"It was rumored that they had one last fight, and then Grand Elder Mu never appeared again. Some say that he died during the battle, others said that he met his origin inside the sect."

"What about the three middle levels, do they contain anything?"

Li Qi Ye looked up and asked. He was only given the rights to the first three levels.

"Master said that he had been through there twice, but the amount of manuals there can be counted on one's fingers."

Li Qi Ye was silent. It seemed like the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect was only a name; what kind of Immortal Emperor lineage only had a few Emperor level manuals? This was also part of why it started its decline.

Finally, Li Qi Ye, at the third level, chose an offensive technique manual, a Life Wheel technique in the second, and a bunch of different scrolls from the first.

Nan Huai Ren saw a total of one hundred and twenty different manuals, and he silently said:

"Senior, these manuals are just martial arts, and they are not worth mentioning. Anyone in the sect can look at them; do you want to change to something else?"

"I have my own calculations."

Li Qi Ye shook his head.

Nan Huai Ren quickly gathered these techniques to check them out. Nan Huai Ren knew that Li Qi Ye was very methodical, and everything he did had a clear logic behind it.

When Li Qi Ye and Nan Huai Ren carried the numerous manuals to the front, the other disciples looked at him as if they saw the village fool. Even the disciples responsible for checking out looked at him weirdly.

"Elder said you could only pick three different manuals."

One of the disciples checked the order from Li Qi Ye again and said.

Li Qi Ye slowly answered:

"I know. I only picked one cultivation technique and one Life Wheel method, and the third I did not pick. As for these martial arts manuals, Huai Ren said that anyone could look at them. This includes me right?"

The disciples looked around and ended their gaze at the protector in command, waiting for his decision.

They counted the different books.

"Total there are forty four specialized martial arts manuals, thirty six hybrid martial arts manuals, and forty body training manuals."

These martial arts, here, had no value even when compared to other martial art manuals. The disciples were surprised at Li Qi Ye's choices.

From the dust collected on these manuals, it was clear that no one had ever read them before.

The spectating disciples couldn't help but to start laughing at Li Qi Ye and his choosing more than one hundred martial arts manuals.

"The idiot can't tell what's good and bad. Even if you study all of the martial arts in the world, you will still only become an average person at best."

A student said in a condescending manner.

Another one joined the fray:

"Senior Wang, this is called knowing your own limits. Cultivational Merit Laws aren't meant for those with a Mortal Physique, Mortal Life Wheel, and Mortal Fate Palace. He knew that he wouldn't be able to cultivate to the foundation level in even ten years, so he took a step back to learn martial arts instead!"

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Chapter 28 : Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law (2)

The Scripture Library had contained these martial arts manuals for a long time. However, it's just that, in the past, not many disciples chose to read these mortal manuals, let alone one hundred and twenty of them.

Li Qi Ye coldly glared at the laughing spectators. Nan Huai Ren, next to his side, was extremely worried for them. Other people did not know, but it was clear to him that Li Qi Ye was an executioner that killed people without blinking his eyes. Even Du Yuan Guang and Xu Hui were severed on the spot, these disciples are nothing.

A second generation disciple, with good intentions, politely told him:

"These martial art manuals, only look at them for fun; you shouldn't focus too heavily on them."

Li Qi Ye respectfully replied to this disciple:

"My first practiced technique was the "Invisible Dual Blade"; it was just a regular martial art, but its power was considerable. Maybe if I practice all of these manuals here, then I would become peerless in this world."

The good intention disciple shook his head, and said in a serious tone:

"Martial arts is only a side road. If you want to learn, only pick one or two. Picking one hundred is a waste of your energy, and it will slow down your cultivation!"

"Young uncle senior, he doesn't want to listen to your good advice. You should just ignore him; don't waste your breath."

In other people's eyes, Li Qi Ye looked very foolish right now for wanting to practice martial art techniques.

Of course, if Li Qi Ye purposely wanted to read these manuals, then the good intentioned disciple wouldn't stop him. He continued the procedure for Li Qi Ye.

When Li Qi Ye gave him the second manual, this disciple nodded his head and said:

"Now this is right, you chose a decent cultivation manual: "Kun Peng's minor sixth form". "Kun Peng's minor sixth form" is an incomplete law originating from the Emperor law: "Kung Peng's Six Variants". If you successfully cultivate this technique, then maybe in the future, you would have the opportunity to learn the "Kung Pen's Six Variants"; it will mold a great basic foundation. "

(TL: Kun Peng is a giant bird/fish from Chinese Daoist mythology, it is known for its power, size, and speed)

After hearing these words, the other disciples were envious and jealous. This was an Emperor law; even if it is only an incomplete version, its effect was still greater than a regular merit law. Even a Virtuous Paragon law couldn't compare to it.

"Why does he get to cultivate an Immortal law?"

"Hmmph, he is only a useless person. Such an Immortal law… you shouldn't even dream of successfully completing it during this lifetime."

All of these students clamored, but they quickly shut their mouths seeing the glare of the protector nearby.

Li Qi Ye had the order of the Six Elders. Unless they wanted to question the Six Elders' decision, otherwise, the only thing they can do was be envious of Li Qi Ye.

Li Qi Ye took out the last manual. This manual was extremely ancient. It had survived through many generations, and no one knew what it was made out of to have such good, long lasting quality. It had been read many times without any signs of deterioration.

"Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law!"

The disciple performing the check-out saw this manual. He looked at Li Qi Ye and then the protector.

Even the protector who saw this technique furrowed his brows:

"Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law…"

The other disciples could only whisper among themselves now.

"It is another fool who wants to rush things. Cultivation, on this earth, who can rush it?"

"Heh, he wants to be a genius after one night though."

"Even if he was to cultivate the Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law, he wouldn't be unbeatable after just one night. Geniuses and trash are determined by the heavens, no matter what kind of methods a piece of trash used, he wouldn't be able to become a genius."

A student bitterly said.

"It is better to not cultivate this Merit Law, it will harm you in the end."

The protector shook his head:

"Even though the first stage of this Merit Law can help your cultivation speed, but, based on your Mortal Life Wheel, the best you can do is reach the Inner Longevity Stage. After that, you cannot use this technique to reach the following level. We had a genius in the past that had a Saint Life Wheel; however, because he chose this technique, he couldn't cultivate past the Heaven's Primal stage; he ruined his dream of becoming an emperor."

Revolving Crescent Sun was notorious in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect because cultivators could quickly improve in its first stage. It used one's blood energy to increase one's cultivation speed; however, once that person had reached a particular stage, he couldn't continue. This is because he sacrificed his blood energy to increase his cultivation strength, so they became imbalanced. It rendered going to the next stage next to impossible.

This was why it was considered the fastest cultivation merit law, but its other name was the disabled merit law; many geniuses had tried it but all had failed.

"Thank you for your guidance, honorable protector. I know when to stop."

Li Qi Ye smiled.

Seeing that Li Qi Ye didn't want to listen, the protector closed his eyes. He didn't want to waste more energy on Li Qi Ye. If Li Qi Ye was a genius, one with great innate talents, then he would have stopped Li Qi Ye from choosing it for certain.

In the end, Li Qi Ye and Nan Huai Ren left the Scripture Library under the jeers of the other disciples back to his peak.

Once they've returned, the sun was already down. Li Qi ye said:

"Tomorrow, we'll choose a treasure."

Nan Huai Ren agreed. He didn't know why Li Qi Ye chose so many techniques, but he didn't want to question Li Qi Ye's actions. He said:

"With so many manuals, tomorrow, I will ask the outer sector to give you a dimensional pouch; it will be more convenient for you."

Li Qi Ye nodded. Seeing that Nan Huai Ren was about to leave, he asked:

"What is the name of the second generation disciple at the library?"

Nan Huai Ren answered:

"Qu Dao Li, he used to be a third generation disciple just like us. His innate talents are very good, and he was willing to stay at the Scripture Library; thus, he was promoted to a second generation disciple."

Li Qi Ye smiled without saying anything else, so Nan Huai Ren took his leave.

Li Qi Ye closed the door. He went to to get some pen and ink, and he arranged the one hundred and twenty manuals in an order that no one else would understand.

With a serious expression in his face, he opened the first page of each manuals and wrote one word from each of them, then he opened the second page…

Li Qi Ye was meticulous in each steps; because, besides him, no one knew the sky shattering secret hidden in these manuals.

When asked what is the strongest cultivation manual in the world, anyone would without a doubt say Heaven's Will Secret Law. Every era, when an Immortal Emperor received the Heaven's Will, they would be able to create their own Heaven's Will Secret Law. It was a technique that communicated with the Heaven's Will. It connected one to the azure heaven, and its power was endless.

In this world, no one would be able to think of a technique that was more powerful than the Heaven's Will Secret Law, unless it was something from an extremely ancient era.

If there was indeed one, then it would be a Heavenly Scripture from the Nine Grand Heavenly Scriptures.

During the Desolate Era, there was a legend: before there were heavens and earth, in its infancy stage, the universe's primordial chaos arrived. From the primordial chaos, the grand beginning spawned. The grand beginning gave birth to the Nine Words, the Nine Words created the Nine Treasures, and from the Nine Treasures came the Nine Scriptures.

(TL: Chinese's Origin myths and terminologies.)

The Heavenly Scriptures were the Nine Scriptures in the legend, but no one had ever seen the Nine Grand Heavenly Scriptures in the past.

However, Li Qi Ye had indeed seen the Nine Grand Heavenly Scriptures. In his crow form, he saw one of the Nine Scriptures, the Physique Scripture, during the Desolate Era. After rigorous planning, spilt blood, and one hundred thousand years later, he was able to obtain it.

Because of how powerful the Physique Scripture was, he was threatened and pressured by many powerful beings. Many people chased and tried to kill him; even cultivators of the Immortal Emperor level.

After owning the Physique Scripture, Li Qi Ye learned the mysterious secrets of the heavens from it. Because of the understanding of these mysterious truths, he was exceedingly powerful even without having to cultivate the scripture in his crow form.

Through this scripture, many Immortal Emperors, such as Tun Ri and Ba Mie, were all related to him. Of course, Min Ren was a given since he was personally groomed by Li Qi Ye.

Using Min Ren as an example, everyone in later generations thought that his Solar Immortal Physique was innate; his descendants thought so as well.

(TL: Min means sun and ren means human; it matches his immortal physique)

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Chapter 29 : Twelve Immortal Physiques (1)

Solar Immortal Physique was one of the two Immortal Physiques; no one in this world could be born with an Immortal Physique. Immortal Emperor Min Ren's Solar Immortal Physique was from the Physique Scripture currently within the hands of Li Qi Ye.

Li Qi Ye knew that the Physique Scripture was craved by all, so he had it hidden. He was also afraid that he would lose it one day. He had to find a way to preserve it since his memories regarding it would be erased so that the Demon Heaven Grotto wouldn't get it.

In preparation for that day, he hid the mysterious truths of the Physique Scripture in the martial arts manuals that all cultivators look down upon. He separated it into three parts, hid them in three different types of martial arts manuals, spanning one hundred and twenty manuals containing ten thousand different techniques.

Li Qi Ye used a particular order that only he knew about to hide them in the manuals, so, even if someone knew where it was, they wouldn't be able to piece it together.

At that time, he separated the three types of martial arts into three different eras, so they had no relation with each other.

Within these three eras, he mass produced and separated them everywhere in all of the Nine Worlds, not just the Mortal Emperor World. There were at least a hundred thousand copies in each world.

With the help of the other Immortal Emperors and the Medicine God, although he erased his memories of the techniques, the order of these martial arts manuals remained. From the past until now, no cultivator had read all one hundred and twenty manuals.

Li Qi Ye purposely left all one hundred and twenty manuals in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect so, if a disciple was able to discern this secret, he would be able to cultivate an Immortal Physique. Maybe then, the sect would have another Immortal Emperor or at least, a Virtuous Paragon with an Immortal Physique.

Unfortunately, no one would even look at these manuals, let alone taking the time to research them. This was why after Min Ren, there was no second person with an Immortal Physique.

Li Qi Ye spent the whole night copying the Physique Scripture from the manuals. After reading what he wrote, Li Qi ye couldn't help but satisfyingly smile. As he read each word, his lost memories of the Scripture slowly appeared in his mind. Eventually, the entirety of the Scripture had been completed.

After remembering the whole thing, he burned his written copy. He knew the value of the Physique Scripture. If someone knew that he was in possession of it, there would be a calamity to endure. He could only hide it in his head.

The truth was that the original Physique Scripture had been hidden by Li Qi Ye, and no one else in the world knew where it was. However, Li Qi Ye was not in a hurry to get it because the Scriptures were also related to another secret; they weren't just cultivational techniques. Afterward, Li Qi Ye rested for a little bit before the morning. Nan Huai Ren came early to the peak to meet Li Qi Ye.

"Senior, I'm afraid I can't go with you to the Weapon Armory today. The Elders told me to go report the events regarding the marriage to the Sect Master; I have to leave the sect."

Nan Huai Ren said.

Nan Huai Ren was valued by the Elders for his intelligence, so he was given an important mission.

"Go; I'm not in a rush for a weapon."

Li Qi Ye nodded slightly, he wanted to use this time to reorganize the techniques and methods inside his mind.

After Nan Huai Ren left, Li Qi Ye didn't continue sleeping. He took out the Kun Peng's Minor Sixth Form manual. It was highly regarded by the third generation disciples because it was still part of an Emperor merit law.

Each Immortal Emperor had always created formidable merit laws. Some were longevity cultivation methods that could increase one life's span and blood energy. Others were Fate Palace techniques meant for offensive and defensive potentials. Last were the different ways to strengthen one's Physique. These three were the general types of merit laws that were crafted by Immortal Emperors; they also included Heaven's Will Secret Laws.

In his life, Min Ren had founded many different Emperor manuals, and Li Qi Ye was familiar with them; after all, he participated in the formation of these manuals.

During his last hibernation, his memories were erased by the Black Dragon King of Heaven Protector Palace, but he could still regain them.

Kun Peng's Minor Sixth Form was a subsidiary of the Emperor Merit Law "Kun Peng's Six Variants". It was the strongest Fate Palace Merit Law created by Min Ren.

Right now, Li Qi Ye didn't have access to the high level Emperor merit laws in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, so he didn't know if the Six Variants was still available. However, he could use the minor sixth form to regain his old memories regarding the actual Six Variants.

Slowly reading the minor sixth form, Li Qi Ye found that the manual only had six simple movements, not enough to be considered a legitimate Emperor merit law. But the Six Variants were derived from these six simple actions.

Li Qi Ye, in the past, had brought Min Ren to watch a Kun Peng from far away. Min Ren's observation eventually turned into six basic movements, and they were used to create the infamous Emperor Fate Law – Kun Peng's Six Variants.

The six actions slowly appeared in Li Qi Ye's head. Sometimes it was an eagle flying in the nine layered sky, and one flap of its wings would take it three thousand miles away. Another was a fast descent into the ground with enough force to pierce through the layers of hell. The third was in the depths of the sea; it transformed into a giant Kun, and its heavy tail caused endless tsunamis.

(TL: Kun resembles a whale, Peng is the eagle form, I suggest googling Kun Peng if you want an image.)

Sometimes it was an eagle; sometimes a Kun. The transformation became faster and faster to the point that one couldn't differentiate whether it was an eagle or a Kun. The Kun became an eagle and ascended to the heavens; stumbling on the grand truth. Kun and Peng were ever changing like the sun and the moon's rotations; it was as if they were one with the primordial orders of the heavens and earth.

"Bang!"

A loud noise rang in the room, and Li Qi Ye initiated Kun Peng's power. In the blink of an eye, Li Qi Ye's whole body heavily jolted, and the gigantic Kun Peng that was thousands of miles tall suddenly disappeared. The heavy tornados and tsunamis that were accompanying the beast also subsided. These images slowly become strands of consciences, slowly gathering into one grand truth. What emerged from this grand truth were the symbols from the erased memories that were now returning to Li Qi Ye's mind.

In the end, when the eagle was no longer an eagle, and the Kun was no longer a Kun, only one grand mysterious truth remained. A complete Kun Peng was formed, and the Kun Peng's Six Variants, without flaws, had appeared in Li Qi Ye's mind.

Li Qi Ye was extremely ecstatic; the heavens didn't let him down. He had finally regained his Kun Peng's Six Variants.

An unknown amount of time had passed, and Li Qi Ye recovered his thoughts from his deep cultivation. Although he had regained a completed merit law, and it was an extremely powerful one even among those at the same level, Li Qi Ye did not become complacent or arrogant. He knew his original body more than anyone else. When compared to the other geniuses, his Physique, Life Wheel, and Fate Palace were all lacking. He had to cultivate a hundred times harder to catch up to others; he had to be patient. Only then, could he obtain the Heaven's Will of this era to sweep the nine heavens and earth.

With the qualification of someone who had taught Immortal Emperors and powerful beings, he knew the principles behind the mysterious truths more than anyone else. His greatest strength and advantage was having a perfect cultivation procedure.

He started to research the Revolving Crescent Sun method. It was classified as a Life Wheel cultivation method used to train the Life Wheel and to increase lifespan and blood energy.

Every cultivator, and even mortals, all have an innate longevity gauge. Any living beings that have formed intelligence will have three things: the first was a Physique, the second was a Life Wheel, and the third was a Fate Palace.

Physique didn't need much explanation. This was the thing that contained one's life force. Without this physical base, there was no life. Even a mortal would have a mortal body. The general shape of the human race with its bones, bloods, and muscles was considered one of the best physical bases to contain life.

There was a saying regarding the Life Wheel. A tree had its growth rings, and a human has the Life Wheel. The Life Wheel was located inside the body, but it was not of physical form. It was a light that was continuously spinning. At first, without any special external tools, only the cultivator himself could see his Life Wheel. However, after successful cultivation, the Life Wheel would appear behind one's head; its shape and light would determine the strength of one's blood energy and longevity.

If a mortal lived his life without any accident, then the Life Wheel would determine his lifespan. Li Qi Ye's Mortal Life Wheel for example, would allow him to live to the age of sixty without any cultivation.

Physiques, Life Wheels, and Fate Palaces all have the following ranking from lowest to highest:

"Mortal, Houtian, Xiantian, King, Saint, and Immortal."

All three share the same ranking system; however, under normal circumstances, cultivators couldn't change or increase their Life Wheel and Fate Palace level; these two were innately gifted to you by the heavens. As for the body, one's physique could be cultivated. For example, a person with a Xiantian's physique, through cultivation and effort, could raise it to the next rank.

Author's Note from the Daoist's classic Zhuangzi:

In the northern darkness there is a fish and his name is Kun. The Kun is so huge I don't know how many thousand li he measures. He changes and becomes a bird whose name is Peng. The back of the Peng measures I don't know how many thousand li across and, when he rises up and flies off, his wings are like clouds all over the sky. When the sea begins to move, this bird sets off for the southern darkness, which is the Lake of Heaven.

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Chapter 30 : Twelve Immortal Physiques (2)

It was the opposite case for the Life Wheel and Fate Palace. One could not naturally increase their innate ranking of the Life Wheel and Fate Palace. Even if one became an Immortal Emperor, the Life Wheel and Fate Palace would be the same as they were at the time of their birth.

All three of them were extremely important for the purpose of cultivation. The Physique determined one's bone and muscular structures, the Life Wheel dealt with one's blood energy, and the Fate Palace indicated one's innate aptitude and natural enlightenment.

For example, if a person had a Saint Life Wheel, then his blood energy would be as abundant as the desert sands; when trained using a Life Wheel method, his speed would be extremely swift; the effect would be greater as well.

Li Qi Ye slowly read the Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law in order to find the mysterious truths of this method. The Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had a completed version of this merit law, but what Li Qi Ye was aiming for was more complex than the manual.

To talk about the Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law was to talk about its exceptional origin of how Li Qi Ye struggled to obtain this merit law. At the beginning of the Emperor's Era, he contemplated about letting Min Ren cultivate this method, but he changed his mind.

In the old Desolate Era, both humans and demons were extremely weak species. Many immortal sages spent their lives creating suitable merit laws and cultivation methods for these unfortunate beings; eventually, they were able to form a new flourishing era.

There was a formidable immortal sage that created a Life Wheel merit law that allowed for one to cultivate quickly; it was named Revolving Crescent Sun. In the beginning stages of this merit law, cultivators were able to use their blood energy to build their Fate Palace, and their cultivation levels quickly rose.

However, the Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law had a fatal weakness. The beginning stage allowed for the blood energy to carry one's cultivation level, but, as his cultivation level increased, his weak blood energy was no longer sufficient. The result was that the person would be left in a stage where his blood energy was weak and his cultivation was unable to grow. If he was to force the technique, his longevity would decrease from over-exerting his life blood.

When Li Qi Ye had obtained this method, he passed it down to many people. However, none of them were able to perfectly utilize it. For the sake of perfecting this technique, Li Qi Ye gathered many Immortal Emperors; including Immortal Emperor Xue Xi, Immortal Emperor Min Ren, and Immortal Emperor Tun Ri.

It wasn't until the era of the Black Dragon King that Li Qi Ye had perfected this technique. Today, as he was researching the technique, his old memories containing the mysterious truths within the merit law came back to him.

After recovering the completed and revised Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law, Li Qi Ye took a deep breath.

In this world, not many people knew the effort he had spent on this technique across the eras. Who would know how many immortal sages of humanity spent their lives to develop the method?

The truth was, after Li Qi Ye left this method behind in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect, many geniuses had tried it; however, none of them could reach grand completion.

Li Qi Ye spent three days and three nights to research the Kun Peng's Six Variants and the Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law. Nan Huai Ren still had not returned; since Li Qi Ye was not in a rush, he chose to stay on the peak to further cultivate.

Once his two methods were ready, Li Qi Ye was ready to formally start his cultivation. One could say that Li Qi Ye's experience and knowledge regarding cultivation were rich even if his innate aptitude was subpar.

Even though the two methods were heaven defying, he did not rush toward completion. He wanted quality in his cultivation. He knew that rushing would only leave behind hidden dangers and flaws for one's long path of cultivation.

Li Qi Ye was cultivating both at the same time, but the two methods were not related or in sync with each other. The Kun Peng's Six Variants was about using the Fate Palace while the Revolving Crescent Sun was a Life Wheel Technique. One could cultivate both in the beginning without complications.

There was a fourth type of method outside of the three already mentioned ones; some people called it the foundation method. This method did not focus on the Physique, Life Wheel, or Fate Palace individually, but rather, it focused on all three of them at the same time. Although this fourth type had many uses, and its theoretical effects seemed great, it was hard to cultivate such a method to a higher rank.

There were also different rankings for merit laws and methods. For example, if Nine Saint Virtuous Paragon was to create a method, his method would be of the Virtuous Paragon ranking. As for an Immortal Emperor's creation, it would be named an Immortal Emperor method.

Of course, merit laws and cultivation methods weren't everything. Without a strong willpower, in the end, everything would be gone like the clouds in the wind. Many geniuses, in the past, started their cultivation with heaven shattering methods. This entitled them a smooth road until they suffered from Qigong Deviation. Other geniuses were spoiled in their beginnings, and they were given Immortal Emperor methods at the start; however, when it was time for them to compete for the Heaven's Will, they weren't able to cultivate their own Heaven Will's Secret Law; they lacked the experience and toughness from their past easy roads.

After thinking about all of the nuisances regarding cultivation, Li Qi Ye channeled his Life Wheel using the Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law; the effect was clear. Behind Li Qi Ye's head was a wheel of light rotating without breaks, and his blood energy began to move within the light.

The blood energy was flowing through the Life Wheel as if it was a stream controlled by its current, never stopping.

Li Qi Ye was born with a Mortal Life Wheel; he had no advantage regarding this area. Because his blood energy was weak, his blood current was not strong within his Life Wheel's rotation.

If another with a Tianxian Life Wheel or Emperor Life Wheel were to cultivate the same merit law, their current would be a large river. A Saint Life Wheel's current would be as great as the ocean itself.

Li Qi Ye initiated the incantations of the Kun Peng's Six Variants, and he began to activate his Fate Palace in a particular order.

The Fate Palace was the home of one's fate; it carried the three souls and seven spirits. The Fate Palace was hidden inside the Shang Dan Tian, so Li Qi Ye started to use the Six Variants to knock on the Palace door. The Fate Palace slowly appeared in his Shang Dan Tian.

(TL: Shang Dan Tian is a meridian located on top of the forehead)

The Fate Palace had an ancient design, and it was crystal clear. However, because his Fate Palace was only of mortal rank, the light radiating from it was dim.

Normally, the Fate Palace was closed, and the soul and spirits were at rest. One had to knock on the Fate Palace to wake the souls and spirits up in order to channel their power, then one could start to cultivate.

(Nere: I was confused for a second, too. Apparently, in Chinese Daoism, there are three souls and seven spirits.)

This was why the first level of cultivation was known as Palace Foundation. This level itself was divided into three separate stages: First Entrance, Second Awareness, and Third Bloodsurge.

First Entrance was the process of knocking on the Fate Palace, allowing the incantations of the cultivating methods to enter the Fate palace. During this process, it was akin to a monk knocking on his wooden plate to connect to Buddha. One had to do it nonstop and faithfully, and, only then, would the Fate Palace answer by opening its doors.

"Bang, Bang, Bang."

Li Qi Ye used the Six Variants incantations to knock on his Fate Palace nonstop. He had forgotten how many times he had done it, but the Fate Palace would not answer him. This, however, did not deter Li Qi Ye.

For a genius, especially someone with a Saint Fate Palace, the process of opening the Fate Palace was extremely easy because their souls and spirits were formidable. Legends have it that there was a person with a Saint Fate Palace that only had to knock once before opening his Palace.

This person would be a genius among geniuses; however, Li Qi Ye was not part of this group. He had to be patient and put in countless amounts of effort; that was his only road to success.

Even though Li Qi Ye knew a few different methods to open the Fate Palace with just one knock, such as using the Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law to gather all of his blood energy to improve the incantations of his Kun Peng's Six Variants in order to strike a hard blow to the Palace Door, he didn't want to do it.

His Life Wheel was only of mortal grade, and his blood energy was thin. If he over exerted his blood energy, then his Life Wheel would be damaged. Not only that, but such a powerful blow would frighten his souls and spirit, and that would leave behind complications in the future.

Knowing his weakness, Li Qi Ye was determined to create a solid foundation without any imperfections. He kept on knocking on his Palace Door; even if it was ten thousand times or a hundred thousand times, he would continue until the Palace Door opened.

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Chapter 31 : Kun Peng's Six Variants (1)

"Bang, bang, bang!"

Li Qi Ye had knocked on the door for tens of thousands of times now, but there was still no answer.

For the majority of cultivators, this was not a good sign. It showed how your low inner talents were. However, Li Qi Ye had an unwavering willpower; even if he had to knock for a million times, he would keep on going.

"BANG!"

After five days and five nights, a small sound resounded. Under the patient knocking of Li Qi Ye, his Fate Palace was finally opened.

Entering the door, one could see the power of the souls and spirits. However, his Mortal Fate Palace was extremely limiting. At this time, the Kun Peng's Six Variants incantations flew into the Fate Palace along with Li Qi Ye's consciousness.

The space inside the Fate Palace was very vast, approaching infinity. In the middle of Li Qi Ye's Fate Palace were mysterious incantations in the form of calligraphy; they flew around in a natural order around a radiant light as if wanting to wake it up.

This light was the soul. To others, it was the three souls and seven spirits or even the True Fate. This was the thing that determined a person's fate through their life.

Only by cultivating could one activate the True Fate and the souls. Once they were awakened, the cultivators would gain their magical power. They would also be able to connect to the heavens and earth, borrowing their energy.

Kun Peng's Six Variants was a Fate Palace merit law; it had to wake up the souls and use them as the foundation of cultivation for Li Qi Ye. This was why the incantation calligraphies that represent the mysterious truths of the Six Variants were twisting the souls nonstop to wake them up. These words sometimes were an eagle flying, other times, they were a Kun playing in an ocean, or even a completed Kun Peng. These beasts caused Li Qi Ye's Fate Palace to resemble a wide sky and deep sea, and his Fate Palace light was heavily affected by their presence.

This process was the second step named, Second Awareness. Because of Li Qi Ye's low innate talents, this event would also take longer compared to other geniuses despite having an Immortal Emperor merit law.

His Fate Palace grew wider and bigger in size; one could not see the boundaries. Even if the awakening process was completed, he wouldn't be able to see through all of his Fate Palace. However, he felt an existence far away in his Fate Palace.

Towards the extreme side, in the east direction, it was as if there was a gigantic spring; however, it was dried out; there was no water running.

This Spring of Life was one of the Fate Palace Four Symbols. There are many theories regarding it; some immortal sages believe that it was the source of life and fate energy.

To the far west, Li Qi Ye felt an image of a huge cauldron, but, at this moment, it was extremely cold.

This was the Cauldron of life. It's flame was capable of burning and dissolving any existence. People believed that the source of its flame were the souls, hence the name, Soul Fire.

Towards the south was a gigantic tree piercing the sky itself. This tree was massive; however, it showed no sign of life as if it had died ages ago.

The Tree of Life was the most mysterious object in the Fate Palace. Legends told that it could steal from the heavens and obtain great fortunes.

At the distant north was a towering pillar that connected the heavens and the earth. The pillars were engraved by countless mysterious symbols. It looked as if it had been standing there since the beginning of time.

Pillar of Life, it was also known as the source of life. Without it, nothing would exist.

The Fate Palace Four Symbols included: the Spring of Life, the Cauldron of Life, the Tree of Life, and the Pillar of Life. These were the most enigmatic entities in the world. Many ancient sages tried to understand the four symbols in order to get a better sense of cultivation.

The world believed that if one could understand the truths of all four symbols, he would be able to obtain the Heaven's Will and become an Immortal Emperor.

Li Qi Ye was still letting the Six Variants method stimulate the souls while his Revolving Crescent Sun Merit Law was cultivating his Life Wheel; this resulted in a strange and mysterious state during his cultivation.

He kept the same pace without hastiness because he had absolute trust in himself. No one, or anything, could ever shake his willpower.

After ten days, Nan Huai Ren had finally returned. He immediately went to meet Li Qi Ye and apologized:

"Senior, sorry about letting you wait so long. Sect Master was in isolated cultivation; I had to wait till she came out before I could finish my report."

"It is not a big deal."

Li Qi Ye calmly answered.

Seeing Li Qi Ye's nonchalant disposition, Nan Huai Ren paused for a second and then voiced his concern:

"Senior, from what I've gathered while listening to the Sect Master, second brother is returning to the sect."

He hesitantly added:

"Second brother is the Sect Master's disciple."

When 'second brother' was mentioned, Nan Huai Ren's eyes were a little strange. He remained silent afterwards.

"Second brother?"

Li Qi Ye noticed the strange gaze of Nan Huai Ren so he inquired.

Nan Huai Ren scratched his head and said:

"Senior, to tell you the truth, I don't know how to explain it. Once you meet second brother, you will understand."

Finally, he added another sentence.

"Second brother's circumstances are a bit special."

Li Qi Ye only smiled and did not interrogate. This matter, to him, was not very important. He couldn't care less about the circumstances of the second brother. Ultimately, the second brother could be sent here to teach him or to monitor him; it had nothing to do with Li Qi Ye.

Li Qi Ye's determination to rebuild the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect would not be interrupted by anyone. Once the time was right, he would reinvigorate the sect. On this road, no one could stop his footstep. Anyone who tried to stop him would meet their death. If Buddha was in the way, slay Buddha; if God was in the way, slay God.

That year, under his tutelage, the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had swept over the Nine Worlds. In this life, he would do the same. His Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect would rule over the Nine Worlds and destroy the Heaven Demon Grotto.

Nan Huai Ren was already used to Li Qi Ye's temperament even when facing the Demon Emperor Lun Ri; thus, he was not surprised by how carefree Li Qi Ye was about the return of the second brother.

Nan Huai Ren stared at Li Qi Ye a little bit, and he suddenly noticed that he had started his cultivation.

Nan Huai Ren happily exclaimed:

"Senior, you had opened your Fate Palace? How long did it take?"

"Not too long; it only took five days and fight nights."

Li Qi Ye said slowly.

"Uh…"

Nan Huai Ren was at a loss for words after he heard the answer. Five days and five nights? You dared to say it wasn't a long time? In any sect, if a disciple was to take even three days and three nights to open the Fate Palace, he would be scolded by the seniors as being incompetent; so much so that he wouldn't be able to raise his head anymore. For taking five days and five nights, he would be considered trash amongst trash. If people knew Li Qi Ye took such a long time, he would become the biggest laughingstock in the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect.

The worst disciple of the Cleansing Incense Ancient Sect had only taken three days and three nights, yet Li Qi Ye required five days and fight nights.

However, Nan Huai Ren could tell from Li Qi Ye's expression that he didn't consider spending five days and five nights as something to be ashamed about.

If other students took that long, their self-esteem would be at an all time low. However, Li Qi Ye didn't feel inferior or pride from it; it was just another day to him.

Thinking about the deaths of Xu Hui and Protector Hua, Nan Huai Ren trembled. A person that was considered idiotic by the world had an unstoppable aura; he possessed a calm and elegant demeanor at all times, and the utmost self-confidence as well as his unshakable willpower that showed through his ability to kill people without any remorse; people like Li Qi Ye would be the most frightening of existences.

Nan Huai Ren stopped here with that thought, and he tagged along with Li Qi Ye to select his treasure.

Once they reached the Ancient Triangular School, Li Qi Ye and Nan Huai Ren carried the order to the Weapon Armory. Here, they saw an extremely large statue standing in the middle.

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Chapter 32 : Kun Peng's Six Variants (2)

The statue inside the Weapon Armory wasn't Immortal Emperor Min Ren or an Elder that had magnificent contributions to the sect, but it was made to the shape of a gigantic black crow.

The crow statue spread its wings as if it wanted to fly through the nine skies. Its claws were gripping two dual blades made out of mortal steel. These blades were the same type used to practice "Invisible Dual Blade".

No one knew how long these dual blades had been here for. They did not survive the torture of time; rust covered the blades' edges, and it looked like both blades were on the verge of breaking at any moment.

Li Qi Ye stared at the statue in a daze. Maybe he had forgotten this pose, but Immortal Emperor Min Ren never had. Nan Huai Ren, seeing Li Qi Ye's solemn moment, he whispered:

"Senior, this is the statue of the Crow God in the legends. When our patriarch was young, the Crow God had taught him on this peak. This is why our sect was established here; this statue was erected after our patriarch's ascension as a memorial."

Li Qi Ye smiled at the story. Of course, he knew this because the Crow God and he were one in the same. He also knew that the whole story was a lie; the real reason why the sect was established here was a secret that only he was aware of.

However, the action depicted by this statue was not false. The first time he met the courageous little boy that loved martial arts, he used his claws to steal the blades from the boy's hands.

Even though he had became an Immortal Emperor, Min Ren had never forgotten their first meeting.

"Let us go inside."

Li Qi Ye regained his composure and went inside the Weapon Armory.

Inside the armory, there were all types of different Life Treasures and Longevity Treasures. The first level had ten thousand different weapons, but these were only made from steel mixed with low level metals. These were treasures with relatively low grades.

A cultivator's weapon was divided into four types: first, the common weapons; second, Longevity weapons; third, Life weapons; and lastly, True weapons.

The common weapons were meant for new disciples. These weapons were extremely common because they were made from mortal steel mixed with magical metals; they were not made from any excessively rare material. Even though these weapons, in the eyes of mortals, would be considered to be heavenly weapons that could cut through steel like mud, cultivators did not think highly of them. They couldn't fully utilize the power of the mysterious truths coming from the Grand Dao.

Technically, Longevity weapons were not considered to be traditional weapons. They were rather, treasures, instead; even if they took the shape of a weapon. They were meant to prolong one's lifespan and feed the blood energy of the user. One could say, every cultivator would have at least one Longevity Treasure because it would feed their Life Wheel. It could also have a pivotal support role in combat since it could quickly replenish the Life Wheel that was depleted during battle.

Life and True weapons were the real force of cultivators. They have great usage in both defensive and offensive means.

Within the lifespan of a cultivator, they could possess many different Life Treasures and even inherit a Life Treasure from someone else. However, they could only have one True Treasure because this treasure was directly connected to their True Soul; the True Treasure and True Soul directly reinforced and supported each other, and the True Treasure, once linked to a cultivator, couldn't be inherited by another cultivator.

Even though a cultivator had to create his own True Treasure and use it for the rest of his life, the power of a True Treasure greatly exceeded a regular Life Treasure. Even if it was the same grade, a True Treasure would annihilate a Life Treasure in the blink of an eye.

Some of the weapons from the first level were common weapons such as the Profound Steel Sword, the Icy Crescent Saber, and the Meteoric Claws while the Life weapons ranged from the Shan He Pagoda and the Demon Slaying Circle, to the Jiang Jiao Staff.

There were also a few True weapons such as the Heavenly God Stone, the Bloody Sky Rope, and the Fierce Sun Calligraphy Pen.

All of these Life and True Treasures had a very low grade; thus, any third generation disciple was able to pick from them. The disciples with contributions were able to pick from the second level instead.

While strolling in the first level, Li Qi Ye noticed the killing aura from these treasures and their ability to absorb the energy of the Grand Dao.

He took his time looking at each one, and he then casually went to the second level. The second level only contained Life and True weapons with a higher ranking than the first level.

However, Li Qi Ye also only looked at each weapon once. He did not select any of them, and they went on to level three.

Seeing Li Qi Ye entering the third level, many disciples who were choosing their weapons were jealous. One couldn't help but say:

"I went to South mountain and decapitated a Longevity beast and made many contributions to the sect, and I only got to pick a level two True Treasure. Why does he get to go to level three?"

Level three of the Weapon Armory was reserved for disciples with great contributions to the sect. Li Qi Ye's ability to enter it made the other disciples feel cheated.

"He has the order from the Elders."

Li Qi Ye turned around toward the angry disciples, and slowly said:

"If you have the ability to question the Elders, go and do it. Chirping here is only a waste of time."

Li Qi Ye's words enraged the third generation students. Many of them here had a high status within their own peer group, but they were looked down on by a piece of trash.

"Let us see how long you can be arrogant for! One day, I will teach you a lesson!"

A disciple angrily yelled.

Li Qi Ye ignored him and kept on walking to the third level. Nan Huai Ren lamented over the fact that these disciples could only see an outside appearance. Do they actually think that Li Qi Ye was an idiot?

Once they stepped inside the third level of the Weapon Armory, there was a blinding light enumerated from the many dazzling auras. The Life and True weapons surrounded by the rotation lights of their own auras made heavenly noises and exerted the energy of the Grand Dao like an unstoppable tsunami; it was as if all of these treasures were alive.

Without a doubt, these weapons, here, had a higher grade and status than the ones in the second level.

"Senior, all the Life and True weapons here are exceptional versus the ones below. The lowest grade here is Inner Longevity and the highest is Heaven's Primal. There is even a True Deity True Treasure here in the Weapon Armory."

Nan Huai Ren explained to Li Qi Ye.

Life weapons and True weapons were connected to the cultivators using them. It was better for an Inner Longevity cultivator to pick an Inner Longevity weapon.

"Look, this is Jiu Lu Longevity Wheel!"

Nan Huai Ren introduced:

"Senior, this wheel was made from the life rings of a Jiu Lu Longevity beast, and it inherited the strength of this beast; if you use this wheel to feed your life essence, it will purify your blood force."

"And this is Jiang Fei Heavenly Rope."

Nan Huai Ren explained in a way that showed Li Qi Ye that he completely memorized the details on the contents of this third level treasure room.

"This treasure was created from the bones of a Heavenly beast in the Warrior Canopy rank. I believe that this beast was a Twin Headed Half-Dragon. Once you are connected to this treasure, you could use it to activate the original truths of the dragon bones."

"Over there is the Hell Breaker Axe, it was forged from a piece of Star Spirit Immortal Steel…"

Nan Huai Ren seemed as if he knew all of the Life and True weapons on this third level; he couldn't stop introducing all of them to Li Qi Ye.

Li Qi Ye glanced at him and praised:

"It seems like you are really familiar with this place."

Nan Huai Ren blushed and replied to Li Qi Ye's remark:

"I always ask to tag along each time my master had to go to the Weapon Armory, so I know a little bit about this place. The fourth level, however, I only went up there once with my ancestor."

Because Nan Huai Ren was amicable and social, unlike his master, Elder Sun liked him a lot.

"The floor above… what Life and True Treasures does it have?"

Li Qi Ye casually asked.

The Weapon Armory has nine levels, but he was only, currently, at the third floor.

"I've only been in the fourth level once; the treasures there were of the Royal Nobles level. As for the above floors, I do not know the exact details for each."

Nan Huai Ren shook his head.

"Would level nine contain an Immortal Emperor True Weapon?"

Li Qi Ye voiced his question. Min Ren had created many True Weapons throughout his life, and Li Qi Ye knew that Min Ren had left a few behind to protect the sect.

Nan Huai Ren looked around and whispered:

"I heard that we no longer have any Immortal Emperor Life Treasures. So naturally, we also don't have any Immortal Emperor True Treasures either."

"There is nothing left?"

Li Qi Ye found that hard to believe because Min Ren didn't just leave one. No matter how unfilial his descendants might be, they couldn't just throw them all away.

Nan Huai Ren shook his head and softly answered:

"I don't know the exact details, not even my master knows. Like I told you before, thirty thousand years ago, we fought the Heavenly God Sect. In that battle, we lost the right to our Kingdom that we had been reigning for hundreds thousands of years as well as our last Immortal Emperor True Treasure."

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