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Chang Qing thought the matters of the day were settled, but unexpectedly received a message from master Gu in the evening, summoning him to the council hall for a discussion.
Upon arriving at the council hall, he found several elders from his sect alongside a few seniors from the Wanxiang Sect and Gong Xue'er.
Gong Cangqiong greeted him with a broad smile, standing up and clasping his hands together. "Changqing Zhenjun, your cultivation has advanced; congratulations!"
Chang Qing quickly bowed in return. According to the customs of the Cultivation World, he had already surpassed Gong Cangqiong in cultivation and was not required to show such deference. However, he held no ill feelings towards him and, being older, decided to pay his respects as a junior.
Seeing Chang Qing's respect and humility, Gong Cangqiong's smile widened further. He continued, "We have come not only to congratulate you but also to discuss an important matter. We have already conferred with several members of the Xianxia Sect, but we still wish to hear your opinion."
Chang Qing glanced at his father, Gu Yuan Zhi, who nodded and said, " Master Gong just mentioned your engagement. However, this matter ultimately depends on your own feelings."
Well then, since his father had said so, it meant there was no pressure to become a Dao partner with Gong Xue'er. Chang Qing felt a surge of joy and was about to speak when Gong Cangqiong interjected, "Chang Qing, you and Xue'er have been betrothed since childhood. Now that she has successfully reached Core Formation, we elders naturally hope for your happiness together."
Chang Qing listened quietly to Gong Cangqiong's words and felt no surprise. After all, he was vastly different from the Original Body who had succumbed to despair in the original storyline. The romantic development between him and the female lead was not as straightforward as it had been in that narrative.
Cultivators pursued longevity and enlightenment; thus, a Dao partner was more akin to a cultivation companion. There were various dual cultivation techniques available that could help break through bottlenecks and enhance one's abilities. However, Chang Qing had no need for any of that! He was already far ahead of his peers in cultivation. Although he bore no resentment towards the female lead, after witnessing the original plot, he found it utterly unacceptable to consider her as a Dao partner.
He turned to Gong Xue'er and asked, "Sister Xue'er, what do you think?"
All eyes turned to Gong Xue'er. At that moment, her mind was in turmoil. She had known since childhood that her elders had arranged this engagement for her. However, she felt little affection for her fiancé, who was hailed as the foremost genius among their generation. After being saved by Xiao Han and spending more time with him, she felt more like a Dao partner with him. Yet after Xiao Han's failed challenge and his obsession with cultivation, she too had been constrained by her elders over the years and had grown distant from both men. Still, she couldn't help but feel conflicted upon hearing that Chang Qing's cultivation was advancing rapidly and that he was likely to become the strongest in the Cultivation World.
Seeing her expression shift multiple times, Chang Qing could guess her thoughts. Before she could speak up, he preemptively stated, "Elders, I see that Sister Xue'er has many concerns; it's best we do not mention the matter of Dao partners any further!"
"I..." Gong Xue'er stood up to respond but was interrupted again by Chang Qing.
"Those who cultivate should seek the Righteous Path for longevity. I have just emerged from seclusion and will soon descend the mountain to refine my heart's state. If my junior sister has concerns about this matter, I share them as well. Therefore, let us put this matter to rest." With that said, Chang Qing waved his sleeve and left without caring about Gong Xue'er's changing complexion behind him.
Gu Yuan Zhi remained composed as he stepped forward and said, " Master Gong, since both children have their reservations, we as elders should not force them."
Gong Cangqiong wore a bitter smile. "Of course." He sighed inwardly; it was still his granddaughter's previous actions that had hurt Chang Qing's feelings. He knew how much Chang Qing cared for his granddaughter during his Qi Refinement Stage but since that visit had not sent any gifts to Wanxiang Sect. Fortunately, neither sect had turned hostile over this issue; that was a small mercy amidst their misfortune.
Gong Cangqiong's thoughts were unknown to Chang Qing, who was currently facing someone—Xiao Han, the male protagonist.
Xiao Han had come specifically to wait at the entrance of Chang Qing's cave. At this moment, he radiated a chilling aura, filled with fighting spirit.
"Gu Changqing, let's have another battle!" He summoned his sword, and the overwhelming Sword Intent erupted instantly, causing the surrounding trees to rustle.
As the powerful Sword Intent surged forth, countless figures soared into the air, rushing over.
"My engagement with Gong Xue'er has been annulled. Do you still wish to fight me?" Chang Qing raised an eyebrow.
"Our battle has nothing to do with my junior sister," Xiao Han replied without hesitation.
By this time, a large crowd had already gathered around them.
"Xiao Han, what are you doing?" Gong Cangqiong asked anxiously.
"I just want to spar with Senior Gu; there's no need for the sect leader to worry," Xiao Han's tone was unreadable.
"You..." Gong Cangqiong wanted to say that their cultivation levels were vastly different, but seeing Xiao Han brimming with Sword Intent, he held back his words. "Fine, let him experience some hardship." Besides, he was curious about Chang Qing's current combat strength.
Upon hearing Xiao Han's name, many in the crowd suddenly understood. He was one of the talented disciples of Wanxiang Sect, a practitioner of the Ten Thousand Sword Technique. Previously at the Qi Refinement Stage, he had been defeated by Changqing Zhenjun—was he here to reclaim his honor? Although the Ten Thousand Sword Technique was formidable, he was merely at the late stage of Golden Core and dared to challenge a Yuan Ying Cultivator across a significant realm. The crowd couldn't help but admire his courage.
"Since that's the case, make your move," Chang Qing said lazily.
As soon as he finished speaking, Xiao Han's gaze sharpened, and he shot into the air. With a low shout, sword shadows flickered before him, instantly covering half the sky.
"Go!" Thousands of sword shadows descended like a storm, whipping up a fierce wind. The cultivators quickly ascended into the air, fearing they might be caught in the chaos. The sword energy filled the sky with an impressive momentum! Although no one believed it could harm Chang Qing, who was at the late stage of Yuan Ying, their perception of Xiao Han changed significantly. Many Yuan Ying Initial Stage cultivators felt apprehensive and realized that dealing with this strike would not be easy.
"This Xiao Han is indeed not simple!"
“Ten Thousand Sword Technique! What an impressive Ten Thousand Sword Technique!”
“Given the situation, it seems that Xiao Han might actually be able to challenge Chang Qing, even at a higher level?”
Everyone's thoughts raced. Their gazes turned towards Chang Qing, curious about how this young Yuan Ying Zhen Jun, who had created a miracle in cultivation speed, would respond.
In the eye of the storm, Chang Qing understood Xiao Han's intentions upon seeing the formation. Aware of the vast difference in their cultivation levels, he knew that prolonged combat was unwise. He decided to go all out and end it with a single strike.
Then let your wish be fulfilled!
With a cold snort, Chang Qing's body radiated starlight, standing proudly like the center of the galaxy amidst the shimmering lights. A tangible pressure emanated from him and quickly spread outwards— the oppressive aura of a Late Stage Yuan Ying Cultivator!
“Crack!” A nearby tree could not withstand the immense pressure and snapped in half. Following that, surrounding trees fell like dominoes, “Crack crack” echoing through the air.
He calmly looked up at the sky as if the countless flying swords did not exist at all. Surprisingly, any sword that approached his aura was instantly shattered into pieces with a loud “bang,” falling to the ground like hailstones.
Just as Xiao Han attempted to recall his flying swords, he suddenly felt his entire being locked in place, his outstretched hand frozen in mid-air.
“Don’t bother trying,” Chang Qing's voice came from above him.
Shrink to an Inch!
Before Xiao Han could even break into a cold sweat, an overwhelming pressure descended upon him like a mountain crashing down. He found himself unable to react at all, as if he had been petrified, crashing straight down to the ground.
“Boom!” Debris and dirt flew everywhere. The crowd stared in shock as they saw a massive pit formed where Xiao Han had landed—his figure nowhere to be found.
“Was that… an instant kill?” The onlookers gasped in disbelief.
“ senior Xiao!” Gong Xue'er rushed forward with tears in her eyes. The others quickly reacted and followed suit, rushing towards him.
"I’m fine." A muddy hand emerged from the pit, and the crowd rushed forward to pull Xiao Han out. His hair was disheveled, and his cultivator robes were torn in several places, smeared with dirt and blood, making him look quite disheveled.
Gong Xue'er immediately burst into tears, turning around to point at Chang Qing and shouting, "You clearly have a much higher cultivation level than Junior Xiao. Why did you still choose to duel him?"
Her sudden outburst caught Gong Cangqiong off guard, and as he attempted to intervene, the words had already escaped her lips.
Can I be blamed for this? Chang Qing thought in confusion. Doesn’t Gong Xue'er understand that in the Cultivation World, strength is paramount? Or have I been too easygoing all along?
With a wave of his sleeve, Chang Qing made Gong Xue'er feel as if she could hardly breathe.
Seeing the situation escalate, Gong Cangqiong leaped forward, palms raised. "Zhen Jun, please show mercy!"
As soon as he spoke, he felt a tremendous force collide with his palms, causing him to involuntarily stagger back several steps.
The onlookers were secretly astonished; Gong Cangqiong was also at the Late Stage Yuanying level and had remained at this cultivation for several years, yet he was clearly at a disadvantage.
At that moment, Xiao Han seemed to regain his senses and stepped forward to help the fallen Gong Xue'er. He cupped his fists toward Chang Qing and said, "I admit defeat. Thank you for showing mercy, Zhen Jun."
Thus concluded the battle among the most talented young cultivators. Although the fight didn’t last long, it gave everyone a new understanding of Chang Qing's strength—one that could rival Hua Shen.
After this battle, the Cultivation World gained a fresh perspective on Chang Qing's capabilities. Many powerful figures analyzed his teachings and reviewed footage of the duel, concluding that Chang Qing was unfathomable and that his combat power had reached Hua Shen's level!
...
Chang Qing paid no heed to the various analyses from the outside world; he resumed his Closed Door Meditation. The number of visitors had become overwhelming and bothersome.
The system confirmed that Xiao Han possessed Demonic Qi but could not provide any further explanation. Chang Qing felt helpless about this situation. He promised to share some of his soul power with the system so it could keep a close watch on external events to avoid missing any critical incidents. Upon hearing that it would receive soul power, the system eagerly promised not to miss a single detail.
However, instead of receiving news about an invasion of the Xianxia Sect, Chang Qing received a distress signal from Wanxiang Sect.
"So, this time the Demonic Sect didn't choose to attack the Xianxia Sect, but instead opted for the Wanxiang Sect?" The system found it hard to believe; the destruction of the Xianxia Sect was a major plot point, how could it just be gone?
"Then does that mean our mission is complete?"
"Well... I'm not sure. It should count, right?" The system scratched its head in confusion.
At that moment, the bell of the Sect Grand Hall rang three times in succession.
"It seems they are about to discuss supporting the Wanxiang Sect," Chang Qing said as he stood up.
When Chang Qing arrived at the Sect Grand Hall, many people had already gathered there. Upon seeing him, they all stood up and bowed. "Changqing Zhenjun."
Chang Qing nodded in acknowledgment. Shortly after, the Ancestor also arrived.
Once everyone was seated, Gu Yuan Zhi got straight to the point: "We've received news from the Wanxiang Sect that the Demonic Sect is launching a large-scale siege and is requesting support from all sects. As members of the Righteous Path, we cannot stand by and watch; therefore, each sect is preparing to send teams to assist the Wanxiang Sect."
"The Righteous Path is united; it is only right to do so," the Ancestor spoke first in agreement.
"The Demonic Sect is too arrogant. If we let them succeed this time, we don't know which sect will be next in line for disaster. We must strike at their pride beforehand," Jianfeng Peak Master said angrily.
Everyone expressed their agreement, and Jianfeng Peak Master insisted on leading all elite disciples from Jianfeng Peak to participate in the action. However, this idea did not receive approval. The sect still needed strength to defend itself; they couldn't send out all their combat power.
In the end, it was decided that Jianfeng Peak, Yu Beast Peak, and Zhen Feng would each lead hundreds of disciples to go. Compared to Dan Peak and Refining Peak, these three peaks had numerous disciples with strong combat capabilities, making them suitable for such mobile support missions.
Chang Qing observed that other sects likely planned to send a few Yuan Ying Cultivators as leaders for support as well. This aligned with the original plot where the highest-ranking cultivators of each sect would defend their own sects while sending out their top combat forces—Yuan Ying Cultivators—to assist. Meanwhile, the Demonic Sect indeed had two Hua Shen leading numerous Yuan Ying Cultivators to intercept them midway.
Moreover, most of the supporting Righteous Path Cultivators did not possess a determination to fight to the death; instead, they were more inclined towards appeasement due to the Demonic Sect's strategy of blocking without killing. This ultimately resulted in volunteer teams suffering little loss but failing to provide effective support.
Chang Qing estimated that this support mission would likely turn out similarly, so he decided he would go as well but indicated that he would not act alongside the main force.
With the Ancestor and the Sect Leader in charge, there was no cause for concern, so everyone had no objections. Thus, the matter was settled.
Chang Qing paid no mind to the others and soared into the sky, vanishing from sight in an instant, already a hundred miles away.
"Host, are we going to rescue the male and female leads?" the system couldn't help but ask.
"No, we're going to the Demonic Sect," Chang Qing replied decisively.
"Huh? What about Wanxiang Sect? What if it's destroyed?" The system was in a panic.
"My mission is to protect Xianxia Sect. If Wanxiang Sect is destroyed, it has nothing to do with me," Chang Qing said nonchalantly.
"That's true," the system realized. "Wait, wait! But won't the male and female leads be in danger too?" The system's mind was racing.
"Don't worry. The male and female leads are favored by the heavens; they won't easily perish. Besides, in the plot, Wanxiang Sect's Ancestor has always been strong. Without the heart demon issue from Xianxia Sect's Ancestor, it's impossible for a single Hua Shen from the Demonic Sect to destroy Wanxiang Sect. Even with two Hua Shen, they could hold out for a long time, enough for the disciples of the Sect to evacuate," Chang Qing explained.
Chang Qing thought that the greatest threat to Xianxia Sect was still the Demonic Sect, which had destroyed their Sect in the original plot. Although this time the Demonic Sect was attacking Wanxiang Sect, there was no guarantee they wouldn't turn their sights on Xianxia Sect next. Moreover, according to information provided by the system, the Demonic Sect only had four Transformation Stage Cultivators. In terms of overall strength compared to the Righteous Path, they were still lacking; after all, the Righteous Path had seven Hua Shen among its three Sects and four Clans. This was also why, despite Xianxia Sect being destroyed in the original plot, the Righteous Path managed to unite and quickly repel the Demonic Sect afterward. Initially, however, they hadn't united; many Sects thought that having one less opponent meant more resources for themselves, which led to significant losses.
"So it would be better to take this opportunity to eliminate this hidden danger of the Demonic Sect," Chang Qing's eyes gleamed with determination.
"Wow! Host, are you finally going on a killing spree?" The system rubbed its hands together eagerly.
"Just lead the way!"
"Got it~"
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