My Wife Is The Leader Of A Demonic Cult

Chapter 228: Chapter 228: Demon Sect’s Outer Pet Flaunts Its Fame (Seeking Subscriptions and Monthly Tickets)

Zhao Qingmei subconsciously nodded. Li Fuzhou was not only meticulous and astute in his actions, but he also possessed the cultivation of a Second Qi Grandmaster, and his martial arts realm had even reached the point of Heavenly Human Communication. Considering his age and talent, it was possible for him to improve further in the future.

Rescuing Li Fuzhou would definitely be a good thing for the Demon Sect.

Yi Daoyun’s cultivation as a One Qi Grandmaster would be overkill against ordinary forces, but was indeed somewhat insufficient when facing the Yan Kingdom Court.

Moreover, his trip to Yan Country aimed to challenge Lin Yiyang, who had stepped into the Sixth Realm, and it was very possible that by doing so, he might spoil important plans.

Zhao Qingmei thought for a moment and said, “Then, how about we go together?”

An Jing said sternly, “No, it’s too dangerous for you to go. I will go to Yan Country alone.”

After all, Zhao Qingmei was the Sect Hierarch of the Demon Sect; her going to the Imperial City of Yan Country would be a true crisis.

Zhao Qingmei said with some worry, “Then you really want to go alone? But didn’t you say that Black Ice Platform’s Qi Shu once harbored killing intent towards you because you have the Evil Suppressing Sword? What if this time you provoke a master from the Black Ice Platform?”

Even though An Jing’s cultivation had reached that of a Second Qi Grandmaster and he had even slain Qiu Fengsheng, who possessed Three Qi Cultivation, Zhao Qingmei was still somewhat uneasy.

An Jing gently stroked Zhao Qingmei’s hair and said softly, “I have a sense of measure in my heart, and I won’t reveal my true strength unless it’s absolutely necessary.”

Zhao Qingmei looked suspicious and asked, “Do you really want to go alone, or is there some secret you’re not telling me?”

An Jing said irritably, “How could that be? What secrets could there be between us?”

Zhao Qingmei finally compromised and slowly said, “Then I’ll have Qiurong accompany you. It’s better to have someone look after you on the road.”

Source: Webnovel.com, updated on ƝονǤᴑ.ᴄ0

An Jing thought of something and said, “My lady, are you having Yu Qiurong keep an eye on me?”

Zhao Qingmei pouted and said discontentedly, “Then, is your trip to Yan Country a deliberate attempt to avoid me?”

Both stared at each other with widened eyes, and it seemed as if time froze for a moment before they simultaneously said, “I didn’t.”

“I don’t believe it.”

Zhao Qingmei gazed into An Jing’s eyes and asked, “Let’s not talk about Su Lian and Su Yue for now, but that Princess An Le and Jia Meixian, the granddaughter of Jia Shiwu from the Four Symbols Sect, why did you save those two?”

With arrangements by Li Fuzhou, the intelligence of the Human Sect of the Demon Sect had long been rooted in the nine paths of Yan Country, let alone such unhidden information.

An Jing patiently explained, “I saved that Princess An Le on a whim, and Jia Meixian owes me a life-saving favor. Of course, I had to save her. Could I still deceive you?”

Zhao Qingmei laid in An Jing’s embrace and fiddled with his collar lightly, saying, “Alright, I will reluctantly not dwell on these matters for now.”

She knew that some things were impossible, but her heart was always filled with unease.

An Jing, feeling the warmth inside his body, said in a low voice, “Don’t overthink it. In that case, let’s have Yu Qiurong go with me.”

Zhao Qingmei looked up, her beautiful eyes shining like they were holding water, “In that case, I might not see brother for several months again.”

An Jing lifted Zhao Qingmei’s chin and looked at her exquisite and beautiful face seriously, “This trip to Yan Country, I’ll come back quickly.”

……

Late at night, a profound silence.

In Dongluo Pass, an old decrepit mansion.

It had been a long time since the mansion had seen any visitors, which lent an eerie atmosphere. The table and cabinet were covered with thick dust, and the walls were draped with dense cobwebs.

Footsteps emerged, heralding the approach of a figure clad in black.

The black-clothed figure’s steps were swift, carrying a hint of impatience.

“Whoosh! Whoosh!”

The moment footsteps stepped into the old mansion, a bitterly cold gleam shot out abruptly from afar.

The two chilling flying needles didn’t strike the black-clothed figure, instead embedding themselves into the ground. Half of each needle was imprinted into the ground, gleaming coldly under the faint moonlight.

“It’s me.”

The black-clothed figure said in a low voice.

“I know it’s you, otherwise these flying needles wouldn’t just be nailed to the ground,” came a hoarse voice, and then a man appeared.

He was dressed as the waiter who had attempted to assassinate Duanmu Xinghua at the Lin family teahouse during the day.

The black-clothed figure said in a grave tone, “You’re too impatient. With Duanmu Xinghua’s profound strength, it’s nearly impossible for you to kill her in a short time.”

‘Xiao Er’ said indifferently, “To kill her within a few dozen moves, there are not many in the world who possess such strength.”

Duanmu Xinghua was a Second Qi Grandmaster in terms of cultivation level. To kill her within a few dozen moves, one would at least need the cultivation of a Three Qi Peak Master. Those in the world who have reached the peak of Three Qi, all rank among the top tier and would not possibly risk their lives at Dongluo Pass.

The person in black frowned and said, “Then why are you paying such a high price? What are you trying to do?”

‘Xiao Er’ laughed coldly, “Duanmu Xinghua has been gravely injured, and she won’t be able to travel to Yan Country in a short time. That’s sufficient.”

This surprise attack on Duanmu Xinghua gave him a slight advantage. If it were a fair fight, he might not be able to assure a victory, and at Dongluo Pass, it was the moment when Duanmu Xinghua was most off guard, offering an excellent opportunity.

Clearly, everything was proceeding according to his plan.

The person in black said with a heavy voice, “Yi Daoyun might replace Duanmu Xinghua in the mission to Yan Country.”

‘Xiao Er’ sneered coldly, “Yi Daoyun? He’s still a level below Duanmu Xinghua. I will ensure that he dies within Great Yan’s borders.”

The person in black did not speak. She was well aware of the strength of this Sang Tianyou.

With his Second Qi Grandmaster cultivation level, especially his incredible willpower and the fact that he practiced the rarely mastered Bone Erosion Heart Palm, even Duanmu Xinghua fell victim to it, which shows its potency. Yi Daoyun would certainly not be his match.

The person in black remained silent for a long while before asking, “What do you plan to do now?”

Sang Tianyou said, “First, you help me leave Dongluo Pass.”

The person in black frowned and said, “Impossible, Dongluo Pass is so tightly guarded now, even a fly trying to enter would be checked, how can I help you leave Dongluo Pass?”

Sang Tianyou, smiling amiably, looked at the person in black in front of him and said, “Others might not have a way, but I think you definitely have one. Don’t forget, we are now like grasshoppers on the same rope.”

Sang Tianyou didn’t speak any further, but the person in black felt a chill in her heart.

“Don’t worry, serving our Houjin will bring you substantial benefits.”

Sang Tianyou took out a porcelain bottle from his sleeve, “Inside here is a Primordial Spirit Pill, you should know what effects this elixir has.”

The Primordial Spirit Pill!?

It was developed by the Black Ice Platform, a kind of elixir with effects similar to that of the miraculous Golden Pill.

The difference is that the Golden Pill has no side effects, whereas the Primordial Spirit Pill requires a period of cultivation as well as dealing with a host of side effects, generating a poisonous effect inside the body and even requiring the long-term consumption of Detoxification Pills to suppress the production of the toxins.

But compared to the increase in cultivation level, what are these drawbacks?

The person in black took the porcelain bottle, a sharp gleam appearing in her eyes, and said, “Fine, I will arrange for you to leave Dongluo Pass as soon as possible.”

……

Two days later, Yujing City, outside the Golden Throne Hall.

They had just gone through a court assembly, and many ministers were dispersing in small groups.

Compared to the relaxed and pleasant atmosphere of the past few days, many faces today were quite solemn. The last time such a mood prevailed was when Houjin’s Golden Eagle Banner and Black Feather Banner took down Heavenly Gate Pass and invaded the Northern Wilderness.

Lv Guoyong, leaning on the stone balustrade, walked down the stairs.

“Old Lv.”

Just then, a voice came from behind.

Turning his head, Lv Guoyong saw that it was Fang Shaohan, the Minister of Revenue, who was calling him.

Hurrying over, Fang Shaohan arrived in front of Lv Guoyong and said in a low voice, “Old Lv, this National Religion Order must not be issued.”

During the recent assembly, Zhao Tianyi, on behalf of the Human Emperor, personally decreed the issuance of a new National Religion Order.

The reason why Zhenyi Sect became the national religion is that it had helped Great Yan conquer the world, having been bestowed a National Religion Order by the former Great Yan Emperor. It is this order that has caused the rapid development of Zhenyi Sect, obtaining many conveniences, and now they even occupy half the martial world of Great Yan, culminating in a situation that has become too big to handle.

Now the Emperor is preparing to issue a new National Religion Order. Are we fostering a new Zhenyi Sect within the martial world of Great Yan?

Lv Guoyong asked, “Why should the National Religion Order not be issued?”

Fang Shaohan looked around and then said, “Zhenyi Sect is the national religion and has been deeply rooted for hundreds of years. It holds immense prestige among the people and the martial community. Now the Emperor is inviting Buddhism from overseas and even planning to issue a National Religion Order. If Zhenyi Sect’s Sect Leader Xiao Qianqiu…”

Lv Guoyong said indifferently, “The Emperor has his considerations.”

As he spoke, he continued to walk down, but he made a mental note of Fang Shaohan’s words today.

The words of a single person can often unwittingly reveal their stance.

And a high-ranking minister like Fang Shaohan, who holds significant power, could very well be a pawn for some faction.

Fang Shaohan, having more to say but stopping himself, could only sigh heavily.

Not far away, Zhao Chongyin and Zhao Mengtai walked side by side, a rare sight.

Zhao Mengtai asked with a smile, “Your Highness must be feeling quite pleased at the moment, right?”

Issuing this National Teaching Order could kill several birds with one stone. Not only could it incite conflict between the Demon Sect and the Buddhist community, revealing some of their own secrets, but it could also weaken the influence of the Zhenyi Sect in the Jianghu and, at the same time, increase the overall strength of the Great Yan Martial World.

This kind of strategic balance came with many benefits. However, there were also quite a few disadvantages, as it could provoke discontent within the Zhenyi Sect. After all, the Zhenyi Sect had been rooted in Great Yan for hundreds of years and was inextricably bound to the nation, sharing both its glories and its losses.

If the Human Emperor couldn’t maintain this balance, it could lead to infighting within the Great Yan Martial World, resulting in unimaginable damage.

In essence, this National Teaching Order was not good news for the Zhenyi Sect, and the Crown Prince, who was at odds with the Zhenyi Sect, naturally stood to benefit.

Zhao Chongyin’s eyes were as calm as water, his hands clasped in front of his chest, and he said calmly, “With nearly two hundred thousand troops of Houjin destroyed, I indeed cannot contain my joy.”

Zhao Mengtai heard his brother’s response, which was beside the point, and chuckled, “This time, Your Highness must be placing all his bets on the Buddhist community, right? With their profound and unfathomable strength, they indeed make the best choice.”

Zhao Chongyin’s expression remained indifferent, but a chill rose in his heart. He had received this news two days earlier and had already informed Universal Literary Vajra of the Buddhist community.

But how did Zhao Mengtai know? Or was it just a wild guess on his part?

“Big brother, this National Teaching Order won’t be easy to take away.”

Zhao Mengtai didn’t even glance at Zhao Chongyin, continuing to walk ahead, and soon disappeared from his field of vision.

Indeed, it wouldn’t be easy for the Buddhist community to obtain this National Teaching Order. Setting aside the possibility of competition from others and constant obstacles, even if they did secure the order, passing the Zhenyi Sect hurdle would be no easy feat.

“Interesting.”

Zhao Chongyin also smiled and then glanced at the glaring sunlight overhead.

The scorching sun had just risen, emitting a fiery glow.

……

Western Pure Land, Lingtai Temple.

In the Buddha Hall, Tianyi Bodhisattva was striking the wooden fish and chanting Buddhist scriptures as usual.

But for some reason, today, a ripple had stirred in his tranquil heart.

“My heart is not at peace, I pray for the Buddha Master’s forgiveness.”

Tianyi Bodhisattva put down the wooden fish in his hand and bowed toward the Buddha Master’s image above him.

Since his heart was restless, it would be pointless to continue chanting scriptures. He got up, ready to leave the Buddha Hall.

“Master!”

At that moment, a novice monk walked in.

Tianyi Bodhisattva asked, “Huiyun, what is it?”

Unless there was a major matter, the monks of Lingtai Temple would not interrupt his scripture reading.

The novice monk quickly said, “The Grandmaster of Exalted Vajra from the Holy Heart Zen Temple has arrived and is currently in the Guest Hall.”

“Exalted Brother?”

Upon hearing this, Tianyi Bodhisattva was moved and hurried to the Guest Hall.

After crossing several corridors, he quickly arrived at the Guest Hall of Lingtai Temple.

Inside the hall sat an old monk wearing a red kasaya. His face was wrinkled, and his eyes were hollow, devoid of any spiritual light.

This man was none other than Exalted Vajra of the Holy Heart Zen Temple, also recognized as the second-highest master in the Buddhist community.

“Exalted Brother.”

Tianyi Bodhisattva approached him in haste.

Exalted Vajra rose to his feet, smiling, “We brothers of the faith need not be so formal. Please, sit.”

The Holy Heart Zen Temple and Lingtai Temple both belonged to the Lotus Sect of the Buddhist community, and the two sects had a very good relationship.

Tianyi Bodhisattva asked, “Exalted Brother, have you come today because there is a matter?”

Exalted Vajra took a deep breath before replying, “Universal Literary Vajra sent me a letter two days ago. He mentioned that the Yan Country’s Human Emperor is preparing to issue a National Teaching Order.”

“National Teaching Order!?”

Tianyi Bodhisattva’s face tightened slightly at the news, “That’s quite a bold move.”

Even he was aware of the importance of this National Teaching Order; he had not anticipated that the Great Yan Emperor would be so generous as to actually issue such a decree.

It was clear to anyone with eyes that this National Teaching Order was intended for the Buddhist sects, and today, there were indeed Buddhist sects capable of shouldering the weight of this title.

The Great Yan Emperor was hoping to turn the Buddhist sects of the Western Pure Land into those of Great Yan, and then use these Buddhist sects to counterbalance the Zhenyi Sect, creating a tripartite balance of power within the Jianghu.

Not only could it enable the Zhenyi Sect to continue growing, but it could also firmly bind the Buddhist sects to Great Yan’s war chariot.

Looking back at the earlier eastward crossing of the Buddhist sects and various events, it all seemed premeditated now.

The Exalted Vajra continued, “The letter from Universal Literary Vajra mentioned some other matters, too. He said that the Demon Sect might also enter Great Yan. This National Teaching Order’s issuance at such a time is no simple matter.”

Tianyi Bodhisattva paused and then said, “This is the overt strategy of the Human Emperor. He wants our Buddhist sect and the Demon Sect to clash first, revealing some strengths in the process. Secondly, it presents an opportunity to placate the Zhenyi Sect further, and thirdly, it allows him to leverage our Buddhist sect’s power to intimidate the Demon Sect.”

The Exalted Vajra nodded, “Indeed, the Human Emperor wouldn’t issue this National Teaching Order without good reason.”

The machinations of emperors are all about maintaining a balance of power—often, it’s an open conspiracy that you just can’t help but be drawn into.

A single National Teaching Order could cause a stir among the top forces of the world.

This is the power of authority!

Tianyi Bodhisattva asked, “Exalted Brother, what are your plans?”

“I plan to personally visit Yan Country.”

After pondering for a moment, the Exalted Vajra said, “Apart from the mysterious Black Ice Platform, the open powers of the Demon Sect in the Jianghu seem to be in decline, and the Mystical Sect is splintered. Logically, our Buddhist sect and the Great Snow Mountain should dominate the world. However, we are acutely aware that beneath the Demon Sect’s Sealing Demon Platform lies a supreme master beyond compare in our Buddhist sect. Meanwhile, although the Mystical Sect seems divided, the Zhenyi Sect’s power is not weaker than the Mystical Sect at its peak. Master Xiao Qianqiu is exceptionally talented, almost heavenly. This National Teaching Order is an opportunity for our Buddhist sect—if we obtain it, we can establish a foothold in Yan Country.”

Although the Western Pure Land is known as the Three Thousand Buddha Countries, resources are scarce, the population slim, and trade passages difficult, placing tremendous challenges before the Buddhist sects.

Entering the ancestral land is a sign of a great destiny’s rise.

Tianyi Bodhisattva said, “Actually, our Buddhist sect still has one hope.”

“Brother, hold your tongue,” said the Exalted Vajra lightly.

“Amitabha,” responded Tianyi Bodhisattva.

Tianyi Bodhisattva asked, “Brother, when do you plan on departing?”

The Exalted Vajra spoke solemnly, “Three days from now, I shall set out for Yan Country.”

……

Zhenyi Sect, Zhenyi Mountain.

The green mountains stood lofty, piercing into the clouds.

Atop the vast cliff, amidst the surging sea of clouds, hundreds of Zhenyi Sect disciples were sitting in meditation on the Sky-Gazing Platform.

These were all elite core disciples of the Zhenyi Sect, the future hopes of the sect.

Yu Ying stood not far from the Sky-Gazing Platform and asked, “Among these disciples, are there any with exceptional talents?”

With Qi Yun’s death in Liu Wood Manor, the Zhenyi Sect had lost its heir. Although Master Xiao Qianqiu was in his prime, capable of dominating the Great Yan Martial World for decades to come, as an ancient sect with a long lineage, it was essential to prepare early.

Ling Yuanjing sighed lightly and said, “Only one or two disciples with good temperament, but their Root Bone is somewhat lacking.”

Geniuses were many in this world, but those who could catch Yu Ying’s eye were scarce. After all, Yu Ying would compare all geniuses to Master Xiao, yet even Qi Yun fell short when compared to Master Xiao, let alone these disciples who were not as good as Qi Yun.

“No matter, we still have time to search slowly,” said Yu Ying nonchalantly.

“Now I am more concerned about Fa Wu from the Fa Xi Temple.”

Ling Yuanjing asked doubtfully, “Fa Wu?”

Yu Ying nodded slightly and said, “A Buddhist child of the Buddhist sect, in the First Grade at the age of ten—don’t you find that somewhat terrifying?”

Ling Yuanjing thought for a moment and replied, “Indeed, it is somewhat hard to believe, but according to the intelligence, he boosted his Cultivation in a short period by swallowing a Relic. Compared to the Demon Sect, such rapid progress in Cultivation within the Buddhist sect is undoubtedly like pulling up the shoots to help them grow.”

The Demon Sect’s Martial Arts prioritize ferocity and rapid advancement but are very prone to deviation, while the Buddhist sect’s Martial Arts are grand and imposing, needing the study of Buddhist Scriptures for practice.

Each Martial Art must follow its nature during Cultivation.

“That’s exactly why it’s all the more strange. Keep a close watch on that Fa Xi Temple,” Yu Ying suggested after a pause.

“The Human Emperor has already discussed this National Teaching Order with the Sect Leader, who had no choice but to agree. The entry of the Buddhist sect into Great Yan has become a foregone conclusion, but not the Demon Sect,” Yu Ying contemplated.

“`

The former is a temporary alliance, while the latter entails interest binding, and may even take root in Great Yan. With just one Buddhist sect having changed the landscape of the Great Yan Martial World, if the Demon Sect were to meddle, Zhenyi Sect could very well lose complete control over the Great Yan Martial World. That is a situation Yu Ying could not bear to witness by any means.

Ling Yuanjing said with a heavy tone, “What Uncle Master said is very true, but I think the Human Emperor will also have concerns…”

Yu Ying shook his head and said, “No, the Human Emperor is testing the limits of our Zhenyi Sect. Although Qian Qiu is indeed the Sect Leader, he does not manage the sect’s affairs. His actions have been those of tolerance and withdrawal, but this time Zhenyi Sect can retreat no further.”

After thinking for a moment, Ling Yuanjing asked, “Then what does Uncle Master suggest?”

A glint of cold light flashed in Yu Ying’s eyes as he slowly said, “To stop the Demon Sect from sending envoys to Great Yan.”

“To assassinate the Demon Sect’s experts?”

Ling Yuanjing felt a chill in his heart and his heart began to pound irregularly.

If others knew that Zhenyi Sect was actually plotting to assassinate the Demon Sect’s envoys to Great Yan, that would be a grave problem, especially since the current court strategy was to ally with the Demon Sect against Houjin.

If the matter were to be exposed, it might lead to immense turmoil.

Yu Ying, with his hands behind his back, said, “Assassinate the Demon Sect’s people and then frame it on Houjin. This way, the Demon Sect will still have to confront Houjin and become the vanguard for the Yan Kingdom Court. As long as the Demon Sect is unaware, even if the Yan Kingdom Court finds out, they will not announce it and may even help us to conceal this secret.”

……

The next day, Fengyun Hall.

Compared to the previous day with many experts present, today Fengyun Hall housed only a few individuals: the Sect Master of Heavenly Sect, Duanmu Xinghua, the Head of Azure Dragon Sect, Lin Tianhai, the Head of White Tiger Sect, Yi Daoyun, the Head of Vermilion Bird Sect, Mu Xiaoyun, the Poison King, Liu Simiao, and Yu Qiurong among others, with no more experts present.

The expressions of everyone present were extremely solemn, as just yesterday there had been a major incident involving the assassination of the Sect Master within Dongluo Pass.

Zhao Qingmei sat high at the head of the hall, her light purple dress complementing her stunningly beautiful appearance, making her look like a fairy who had fallen to earth. Especially with that heroic yet enchanting demeanor, she was truly captivating.

Beside her was An Jing, clad in a plain white robe, his calm and collected nature evident, his eyes as deep and lustrous as black gems.

“Such an extraordinary young master.”

Upon witnessing this scene, Duanmu Xinghua couldn’t help but think to himself, “The two of them truly make a well-matched pair.”

And Liu Simiao couldn’t help but feel moved, “Brother An has really made great efforts to win the Sect Leader’s favor.”

“It’s as if he has nearly ground an iron rod into a needle.”

Lin Tianhai gave a slight nod, aware of the secrets that others did not know, and couldn’t help but sympathize with the Great Physician.

Looking at An Jing sitting beside Zhao Qingmei, the thoughts of those present varied, each with their own feelings.

“I believe everyone present is aware of yesterday’s events,” Zhao Qingmei said as she glanced at the people in the hall, continuing, “Sect Master Duanmu was assassinated, and it’s not as simple as it appears on the surface. The purpose was to delay her envoy mission to Great Yan, but the more they do this, the more imperative it is for the Demon Sect to send envoys to Great Yan promptly.”

Duanmu Xinghua nodded. The intentions of the enemy were clear—if they delayed, they would be falling into the enemy’s trap.

Zhao Qingmei took a deep breath and said, “Therefore, sending envoys to Great Yan cannot be delayed.”

“Sect Leader!”

Yi Daoyun stepped forward and said, “I wish to go in place of Sect Master Duanmu.”

He had volunteered to go to Great Yan the previous day, but Zhao Qingmei had designated Duanmu Xinghua instead. As he wasn’t as powerful as Duanmu Xinghua, he had no objections, but now that Duanmu needed to remain in Dongluo Pass for treatment, it seemed evident that among those present, aside from Duanmu Xinghua and Zhao Qingmei, he was the most powerful. He was determined to undertake this mission.

Lin Tianhai saluted and said, “Sect Leader, Yi is a One Qi Grandmaster with remarkable swordsmanship skills. Now it seems he is indeed the most appropriate choice.”

Liu Simiao and Mu Xiaoyun then stood up to express their agreement.

It was clear that Yi Daoyun was suitable for the job, so why not grant him this favor.

Zhao Qingmei laughed softly, looking at the silent Duanmu Xinghua and asking, “What does Sect Master Duanmu think?”

When Duanmu Xinghua heard Zhao Qingmei’s question, she immediately sensed something was amiss. If Zhao Qingmei had already made a decision, why inquire after her opinion?

Suddenly, as her gaze landed on An Jing next to Zhao Qingmei, an idea struck her, “I believe there is someone even more suitable than Yi Head Seat.”

Upon Duanmu Xinghua’s remark, the entire Fengyun Hall fell into a sudden silence.

Yi Daoyun’s brows lifted as he asked, “Is Sect Master Duanmu referring to Elder Ouyang?”

Among all the high-ranked experts of the Demon Sect, the only one more suitable than him was Ouyang Ping.

But Ouyang Ping had retired to the Sealing Demon Platform, and unless it was a life-or-death situation for the Demon Sect, he seldom involved himself in its affairs.

The rest of those present also looked over, curiosity in their eyes.

“`

“Duanmu Xinghua spoke slowly and clearly, “An Tributor.””

“Duanmu Sect Master jokes,” someone retorted.

Liu Simiao thought Duanmu Xinghua was joking and started to laugh, “Brother An indeed has impressive medical skills, but sending him on an envoy mission to Yan Country is a bit too much.”

This mission to Yan Country wasn’t about healing the sick; not only would he face assassination attempts from other experts, but he would also have to withstand the immense pressure of Yan Country. This wasn’t something just anyone could achieve.

Not just Liu Simiao, but many other experts present thought Duanmu Xinghua was making a joke. After all, the idea seemed far-fetched.

Unexpectedly, Zhao Qingmei nodded and said, “I think it’s not a bad idea.”

Yi Daoyun furrowed his brows and asked, “Is the Sect Leader serious in saying this?”

Zhao Qingmei looked at Yi Daoyun and said, “Do I look like someone who enjoys making jokes?”

Immediately, the entire Fengyun Hall fell into a brief silence.

“If Sect Master Duanmu were to be sent to Yan Country, Yi would be thoroughly convinced,” Yi Daoyun said.

However, Yi Daoyun’s expression suddenly darkened as he looked at An Jing, “But if he goes, I think it’s far too frivolous.”

All members of the Demon Sect knew he was nothing more than a kept pet of Zhao Qingmei, and now he was being sent as an envoy to Great Yan—this was ludicrous and laughable.

Lin Tianhai clasped his fists and said, “Sect Leader, please reconsider this matter.”

Without saying a word, Liu Simiao secretly pondered: Brother An has such strength in his waist that he has the Sect Leader entirely under his control, and now he’s even being sent to Yan Country? But this is no easy task.

“Do you disagree?” Zhao Qingmei asked.

Yi Daoyun’s gaze suddenly narrowed as he replied coldly, “I disagree!”

“Good, very good,” Zhao Qingmei responded, not getting angry but instead laughing upon seeing Yi Daoyun’s reaction.

The usually silent An Jing chuckled lightly, “I have heard that First Seat Yi is also a master among today’s Sword Immortals, and I too aspire to become a Swordsman. Why don’t we settle this with a sword duel? What do you say?”

Upon hearing An Jing’s words, Yi Daoyun went from extreme anger to laughter, “Are you worthy of me drawing my sword?”

Who was he, Yi Daoyun? With the Ghost Swordsman—a top Sword Immortal—gone and Lou Xiangzhen missing, there were very few Swordsmen ahead of him.

This kept pet of the Sect Leader actually wanted to challenge him?

“How presumptuous!”

Before Zhao Qingmei could speak, Duanmu Xinghua stood up first and angrily rebuked.

“Sect Master Duanmu, am I wrong? You are all too afraid to speak out because of the Sect Leader’s influence, but I’ll just say it,” Yi Daoyun coldly pointed at An Jing, “Who is he but a kept pet raised by the Sect Leader, one who climbed the ranks using his body? Does he deserve my Yi Daoyun drawing my sword?”

“First Seat Yi!” Liu Simiao and Lin Tianhai both urgently said.

Although they shared the same thoughts, these things shouldn’t be openly said, especially with the Sect Leader present.

“No need for that.”

Yi Daoyun waved his hand, pushing the two away, “I, Yi, act boldly and stand by my actions. There are some things that must be said. If the Sect Leader prefers to favor a kept pet and to listen to flattering words, then the Demon Sect will someday be ruined in your hands.”

Everyone present was stunned by Yi Daoyun’s unrestrained words, and Liu Simiao even broke out into a cold sweat on his forehead.

Apart from Duanmu Xinghua and Yu Qiurong, the others felt that Yi Daoyun’s words made sense.

Zhao Qingmei looked at An Jing, “What do you have to say?”

“I prefer to let my sword do the talking.”

An Jing walked over to Yu Qiurong, drew the Water Stopping Sword from her waist, and said indifferently, “First Seat Yi, I think you’re also not someone who likes to waste words.”

Yi Daoyun chuckled, “You’re not worth my drawing my sword.”

Every expert in the world has their pride. Lin Yiyang’s pride was the highest, and Yi Daoyun had his own pride. In his view, only a select few experts in the world deserved him drawing his sword, certainly not the kept pet in front of him.

Lin Tianhai quickly tried to smooth things over, clasping his fists and saying, “Sect Leader, let us discuss this matter further.”

Zhao Qingmei said indifferently, “There’s no need. If Yi Daoyun can win, not only will I let him go on the envoy mission to Yan Country, but I will even let him take my place as the Sect Leader.”

“Sect Leader, you mustn’t!”

At this moment, Liu Simiao, Lin Tianhai, and Mu Xiaoyun all felt a jolt in their hearts.

“Aren’t these words provoking Yi Daoyun?”

A cold smile appeared at the corner of Yi Daoyun’s mouth, “Sect Hierarch, do you really think I dare not defeat him? If that’s what you think, then you’re underestimating Yi, as well as Yi’s Sword Dao.”

“I, Yi Daoyun, would rather break than bend!”

“Clank—!”

As he spoke, Yi Daoyun drew the longsword in his hand.

The sword was translucent, reflecting an extremely cold light.

“This is bad, things have taken a bad turn.”

Lin Tianhai’s face turned very ugly; Yi Daoyun was extremely stubborn. Faced with Zhao Qingmei’s ‘threat’, he not only refused to submit but also responded with an even more rigid stance. If he really won, where would Zhao Qingmei’s dignity be left?

Thinking this, Lin Tianhai hurriedly sent a message to Duanmu Xinghua: “Sect Master Duanmu, you should quickly persuade the Sect Hierarch.”

“Don’t rush.”

Duanmu Xinghua chuckled lightly.

Lin Tianhai was slightly startled when he heard Duanmu Xinghua’s response. Normally, it would be Duanmu Xinghua who would come forward to mediate and make peace, but at this moment, she remained indifferent.

Above the grand hall, the two were in a standoff.

Apart from Zhao Qingmei, Duanmu Xinghua, and Yu Qiurong who were in the know, almost everyone thought the duel between the two was absurd.

Yi Daoyun said expressionlessly, “Yi does not take advantage of others; I’ll let you make the first move with your sword.”

An Jing shook his head, “You should make the first move instead.”

“Then watch carefully.”

Yi Daoyun sneered, “Yi’s sword is very fast. If you can see it clearly, it will be of great benefit for you for the rest of your life.”

“Whoosh!”

The moment he finished speaking, Yi Daoyun’s gaze turned cold, and he thrust his longsword towards An Jing with a speed like lightning, and only a very few present could keep up with his speed.

“Sigh.”

Liu Simiao shook his head, believing that Yi Daoyun drawing his sword marked the end.

All the experts from the Demon Sect held a similar attitude; a Master Level Sword Immortal facing a Third Grade Doctor was considered to have no contest at all.

“Ding!”

But just when everyone thought it was over, Yi Daoyun’s sword was blocked by another sword, at the center of collision, sparking magnificently.

“Hmm!?”

Yi Daoyun felt his longsword being blocked by a cold blade, which caught him by surprise, although he had not even put forth ten percent of his strength.

“First Seat Yi, bring out all your strength. I fear you won’t have a chance later,” An Jing said with a faint smile, shifting the Water Stopping Sword in his hand.

Whoosh!

An Jing stepped forward, his clothes billowing like an arrow loosed from its bow, breaking through the air resistance, with black hair flying backward and garments swept up.

“You also wish to defeat me?”

Yi Daoyun’s eyes were calm and unhurried; he didn’t even choose to evade.

In An Jing’s hand, the Water Stopping Sword hung like a ribbon, slanting toward the ground, its blade reflecting the dazzling sunlight. Yi Daoyun let the oncoming wind mess his long hair and flutter his clothes.

He waited until An Jing was less than half a zhang away before he finally made his move.

Two sharp gleams burst forth from his eyes.

A piercing cold light erupted from his hand, and the longsword he held trembled violently, emitting a sound similar to the long chant of a wandering dragon, making the air itself vibrate.

At the same time, a terrifying aura emanated from Yi Daoyun’s body.

Lin Tianhai voiced his doubt, “Did Yi Daoyun really display the strength of a Grandmaster?”

With the strength of a Grandmaster, could An Jing withstand it?

The next instant, the lightning-fast change provided the answer.

At the moment when everyone believed Yi Daoyun’s iron crutch couldn’t be countered with force, An Jing, moving at high speed, showed no intention of dodging. He was still holding the Water Stopping Sword in one hand, facing his opponent and seemingly casually swung out his sword in an unhurried manner!

The hearts of the Demon Sect experts from Fengyun Hall nearly jumped to their throats, experiencing a terrifying illusion in an instant.

That casual sword strike gave all the experts present an indescribable feeling.

Lin Tianhai, Liu Simiao, and Mu Xiaoyun watched the young man in white from a distance, astonished beyond measure.

In mid-air, Yi Daoyun’s pupils suddenly constricted in that instant.

In the brief flash, everything was under control, An Jing’s Water Stopping Sword swung forward, emitting a frigid cold light.

Bang!

A sound, neither loud nor soft, of a blunt object striking, suddenly rang out in Fengyun Hall.

Ripples of sword qi spread out from the center where the two swords collided, creating a series of strange waves.

Bone-chilling cold!

The ultimate bone-chilling cold!

That was the first thought of all the experts in Fengyun Hall, as if they had suddenly transitioned from the heat of summer to the cold of winter.

Only when the qi mechanism dissipated could one see the Demon Sect’s supremely confident Swordsman, his face filled with indescribable shock and panic, retaining the demeanor of a desperate loser from just before his defeat.

On his neck, there was a fresh red line.

Shocking!

Incredible!

The entire Fengyun Hall was filled with the sound of people inhaling sharply.

All the experts from the Demon Sect showed expressions of shock, rubbing their eyes in disbelief.

Duanmu Xinghua lightly exhaled, her anticipation of Yi Daoyun’s defeat had been well within her expectations, but she still couldn’t help feeling amazed to see Yi Daoyun defeated with a single sword strike.

Too powerful, this Ghost Swordsman was simply too powerful, his mission to Great Yan would be far more reliable than Yi Daoyun’s, even more reliable than her own.

Especially that demeanor, detached from the world and unaffected by glory or disgrace, was hard to imagine in a young man.

“This… this…”

Liu Simiao’s eyes nearly dropped out of shock.

Who was Yi Daoyun?!

He was a Sword Immortal, renowned throughout the world, and who was An Jing, merely a favored pet raised by the Sect Leader, yet now such a Sword Immortal had been defeated by a mere pet.

Lin Tianhai too was so shocked he couldn’t speak, simply staring fixedly at An Jing, not believing what he saw, even suspecting Yi Daoyun was putting on an act with An Jing.

And beside them, Mu Xiaoyun’s mind was also in turmoil, this scene completely overturning all her assumptions.

The faces of the Demon Sect experts were a kaleidoscope of emotions, extraordinarily vivid.

An Jing made a single push with his hand, and the Water Stopping Sword returned to Yu Qiurong’s scabbard, “Elder Yi, you should know that a true swordsman always retains a humble heart.”

Saying so, An Jing leisurely returned to his seat and sat down.

Yi Daoyun, hearing An Jing’s words, remained silent for quite a while.

Lin Tianhai and Liu Simiao, seeing Duanmu Xinghua’s expression and then coming to a realization, understood they had been kept in the dark.

Was this a mere pet!?

Clearly, he was a Sword Immortal, a Grandmaster.

And such a young Sword Immortal, if he were to emerge into the vast Jianghu, what a commotion would it cause?

This young man was so astonishing, they had all been misjudged.

Their hearts were in turmoil, struggling to calm themselves for a long time.

Zhao Qingmei indifferently said, “Now, who agrees, and who opposes?”

……..