507 - A Sect Leader’s Ascension

Chapter 507: The Sect Master's Arrangement "I am a disciple of the Chu Qin Sect's Inner Sect, a Jindan cultivator!" "I am the number one in the Black River Pavilion competition among Qi cultivators!" "You can't treat me this way!" Zhan Jianfeng, after waiting anxiously for several days, was finally released from his cage by a disciple from the Qi Yun Sect. He immediately shouted at the top of his lungs, but barely got a few words out before a finger poked at his heart, inflicting pain deep into his bones. Grimacing with clenched teeth, he was brought before a Jindan cultivator from the Law Enforcement Peak. Whatever technique the cultivator employed left him confessing all the misdeeds of his life with striking clarity. “It appears you have no major offenses…” Unexpectedly, the Jindan's evaluation of him was not too harsh. With a casual wave, he pronounced, "Three lashes," making the decision concisely before calling for the next person. Before Zhan Jianfeng could question why he was being punished despite not having major offenses, he was dragged out and held up as three solid lashes landed on his back in rapid succession with a 'pop-pop-pop.' Tears and mucus streaming, he was forced to leave the place of punishment on his own. Once outside, he discovered Qi Xiu waiting with a stern face. Behind Qi Xiu stood Nangong Yanran and a few fellow sect members, along with Liu Feng, who had evidently received far more lashes. His back was a mangled mess, and he lay unconscious on a simple bamboo cot, with two coffins nearby, uncertain whose they were for. "Patriarch!" With a voice full of grievance, Zhan Jianfeng knelt at Qi Xiu's feet. “That man was so unreasonable. I had no major offenses, yet I was still beaten. Look at this,” he whimpered, turning to show his wounded back. "How did you end up like this?!" Qi Xiu, being a perceptive man, needed only a few questions to uncover the entire chain of events. "Visiting black markets, trying to buy a human cauldron? And you think you have the right to complain?" Although he scolded him harshly, Qi Xiu couldn't help but recall having done similar things himself. When a woman had rejected Zhan Jianfeng, it was understandable he had considered buying one. Softening his stance, Qi Xiu decided to let Zhan Jianfeng go back to Tianyin Mountain for further admonishment by Fa Yin, deeming it a small punishment as a warning. “I didn’t even buy one, and even if I did, I wouldn’t use her as a cauldron…” Still dissatisfied, Zhan Jianfeng muttered as his comrades helped him away. Qi Xiu then turned his attention to the prone Liu Feng. "Instigator!" he declared, ordering Nangong Yanran, "Once his wounds heal, expel him from the sect." "Understood," Nangong Yanran replied, then asked, "And these two?" indicating the coffins. "Alas, although they worked for the Black Hand, these deeds are insignificant among Baishan cultivators. Given their misfortune of facing severe punishment by the Law Enforcement Peak, we shall offer some compensation to their families and send them home," Qi Xiu answered, sighing. In the aftermath of Bihu’s collapse, forces like Tianli Sect, knowing their disciples were involved, gathered around Bihu, emotions flaring as if ready to exploit the situation and intervene in the secret realm. After Tu Ziru was taken away by the Jingshan Guardians and the Black Hand's deeds were made public by the Law Enforcement Peak, major sects grew fervent. Tianli Sect and Qinglian Sword Sect, already resentful of Blackwind Valley, heard that an entire family from Ji Xia City had died inside, bodies never found, which gave them a pretext. They launched a worldwide crackdown on the Black Hand, demolishing black markets wherever possible, leaving none untouched. Fortunately, Qi Yun’s Law Enforcement Peak held firm control over law enforcement in Qi Yun and Baishan, ensuring that captured individuals like Zhan Jianfeng received relatively fair sentences. Besides the unlucky Zhan Jianfeng and Liu Feng, two low-tier Qin Chu Alliance cultivators were secretly employed by the Black Hand, one to keep watch and the other to deliver goods. Unluckily caught at the worst possible time, they didn’t survive the ordeal. As Nangong Yanran led her team to make arrangements, Qi Xiu wandered alone to a nearby lakeside. Gazing upon the emerald waters, a flash of sorrow crossed his heart. Here lay Bihu, under which the secret realm held the eternal rest of Chu Shen and others, including Chu Zhuangyuan… "Alas!" He sighed deeply. Indeed, he had not wanted to come due to the dangers involved, but Lu Yunzi had summoned him, leaving him no choice. He had intended to bring Chu Wuying for safety, but strangely enough, Chu Wuying had gone missing without a word, leaving everyone clueless about his whereabouts. Thus, he brought Nangong Yanran, knowing the current control of the area by the Nangong and Jiang families might require her presence. On arrival, however, he discovered a peculiarly tense situation. The Nangong and Jiang families guarded the entrance to the Bihu secret realm, ever vigilant against the surrounding forces like Tianli Sect, who seemed on the brink of a forceful invasion. Yet, tension between the two families hinted at fierce competition for sole control when the ninth level opened in over a decade. Of course, Jiang Huan, backed by Lu Yunzi, possibly represented Qi Yun Sect, or at least factions within it such as the Heaven and Earth Peaks, in their contest over this area. The implications were indeed unusual. In Baishan north, so close to Qi Yun, could anyone truly dare disrespect Qi Yun Sect? Considering the camps lined up along the lake—Qinglian Sword Sect, Tianli Sect, Ji Xia City, Mingyang Mountain, and Nanlin Temple—these weren’t impromptu participants after treasure-hunting but establishments led by Yuanying cultivators, all influential leaders from their respective sects. Reflecting on the temporary execution site’s corpses and the sound of whips, Qi Xiu realized the actions of Law Enforcement Peak might have been attempts to demonstrate power or a show of goodwill. In any case, Qi Yun Sect’s control over the situation wasn’t absolute. This was his judgment. After pondering by the lakeside for some time, he was finally summoned by Lu Yunzi’s envoy. Following them into Qi Yun's temporary camp and being ushered into the great hall, Lu Yunzi was absent, but five individuals were present: Shui Lingyi, leader of the Lianshui Alliance; Jiang Huan, head of the Jiang family and the leader of Ji Xia City; Nangong Meng from the Nangong family; and a middle-aged Jindan of Qi Yun whom Qi Xiu didn’t recognize. Finding his assigned seat, Qi Xiu noticed that since Lu Yunzi hadn't arrived, everyone remained silent. Before long, Chai Yi, the lord of the Spiritwood Alliance’s Pomo City, also arrived. The two cunning individuals exchanged knowing glances, realizing they both were equally unaware of the meeting's purpose. Lu Yunzi, however, didn’t leave them in suspense for long. Rushing in with a serious demeanor, lacking his usual mirth when impersonating Jiang Huan, he spoke with urgency. “Time is of the essence, let’s not dilly-dally.” Without addressing Qi Xiu or the other Baishan individuals, Lu Yunzi acknowledged only the two Qi Yun Yuanying cultivators and the unrecognized Jindan. He then turned to Nangong Meng, stating, “I have conferred with Senior Nangong, and the sect will fully support your family in the campaign to open up the Fengshui region.” “Oh?” Nangong Meng responded, puzzled. “Additionally, this area will become a trial ground for the sect, and a [Bihu Palace] will be established here, with Jiang Huan temporarily overseeing it.” The exchange was conspicuous; no one present failed to see through it. Quickly grasping the situation, Nangong Meng asked, “My ancestral patriarch agreed to this?” “He did.” Lu Yunzi gestured between Nangong Meng and Jiang Huan, “Your Jiang family should join forces with the Nangong family to lend a hand and earn the qualification to establish a sect branch.” “Yes,” Jiang Huan promptly agreed. In just a few sentences, vast matters involving countless individuals and interests were settled. With full backing from Qi Yun, Fengshui was set to overshadow Xiao Moyuan as the next target for expansion, leaving no suspense. Bihu’s secret realm becoming exclusive to Qi Yun Sect would inevitably disappoint the major sects assembled outside Bihu. With the Yuanying Jiang family heading south to Baishan, it seemed destiny for them to establish a branch… Qi Xiu and Chai Yi simultaneously glanced at Shui Lingyi. She lowered her eyes, striving to control her emotions. While her calm demeanor previously had vanished entirely, her current feelings remained unclear. "Who agreed to let your family join our sect last time?" Lu Yunzi inquired of Shui Lingyi, seemingly ready to handle the matter. "Honorable Sect Master, it was Seniors Wan Tiangang, Gao Hetong, and Pei Wen." With no hesitation, Shui Lingyi named those whose promises to her family had remained unfulfilled. "Granting privileges privately is inappropriate,” Lu Yunzi remarked, lightly tapping the armrest before shifting stance. “However, since returning to Baishan, I have observed you did not harbor resentment for their broken promises, continuing your just and benevolent path, which is commendable. Hence…” He indicated the lone Jindan cultivator present whom Qi Xiu couldn’t identify, “The Lan family has an estate in the northern part of Qi Yun; it shall be transferred to your family. You may work together regarding the migration." "This…" Faced with obtaining her long-yearned desire, Shui Lingyi did not exhibit much joy. Instead, she appeared caught in a complex web of emotions and hesitated to respond. "Why hesitate, Sect Sister Shui? It’s a fortuitous turn—thank the Sect Master,” Chai Yi encouraged with a smile, though the impending disintegration of the Wuxing Alliance loomed. Yet he still managed to maintain his composure. “Yes, thank you, Sect Master.” Shui Lingyi knelt and respectfully bowed to Lu Yunzi, then extended a courteous gesture to the Lan family Jindan. Though his family's estate was lost, the Lan family Jindan showed no distress, acknowledging her with a smiling nod. "Moving north to Qi Yun, Sect Mistress Shui must have already considered these changes. However, our original estate is small, lacking the resources of a cultivation city. It may be challenging for you." “Not at all.” Shui Lingyi responded politely, keeping further thoughts to herself. Lu Yunzi turned to the Bihu Sect Leader and said, "With Lianshui Sect's relocation north, you have two choices. One is to follow Jiang Huan to the Fengshui region to participate in the opening war. Afterward, you can join his newly established sect, benefiting for three generations and living peacefully in the former Lianshui Alliance area. The second option is…" He casually tossed a map into the air. Light and shadows danced upon it, creating a vivid three-dimensional landscape with flowing streams. With a finger, he drew a vertical line between Bihu and Lianshui City, perfectly splitting the old Lianshui Alliance lands. "The east shall belong to your family, and the west to the Jiang family. From then on, neither party shall interfere with the other. What do you think?" "This..." The Bihu Sect Leader hesitated, clearly troubled. "Could you allow me some time to discuss it?" "I don't have time to wait for your discussion," Lu Yunzi remarked, glancing at the incense burner in the hall. "I'll give you a quarter of an incense stick to decide." In a panic, the Bihu Sect Leader had no time for decorum. Staring at the floating map, he quickly assessed the situation. His gaze darted around until it settled on Lianshui City, unable to pull away. "My family has caused enough trouble. It would be pointless to live under others' protection in the future. I'll… I'll choose the second option!" he declared, kneeling resolutely. "Good." Lu Yunzi nodded before addressing Jiang Huan, "Bihu Palace will become your clan’s home, guarding this trial ground for Qi Yun Sect for generations." "Understood," Jiang Huan nodded in agreement. Thus, in the future, the Jiang family's territory would stretch from the west border at Qifu City to the newly defined boundary with Lianshui City’s Bihu Palace in the east. Naturally, the northern boundary was the Death Swamp, while the southern... Lu Yunzi indicated a river south of Qifu City within the Spiritwood Alliance's northern territory. Known as the Mian River, it flowed from the southeast, originating from the Leave-fire Alliance territory, running northwest through Chu Qin lands into the Death Swamp. "This river will serve as the boundary: Spiritwood Alliance to the south, Jiang family to the north." With this casual gesture, numerous territories once loyal to the Lianshui and Spiritwood Alliances were reassigned to the Jiang family. This development didn’t concern Shui Lingyi any longer, and naturally, she wouldn’t interfere with the fate of these smaller forces. "Understood." Chai Yi displayed no dissatisfaction, obediently kneeling, a picture of willing compliance. Qi Xiu pondered. Last time, Lu Yunzi had disrupted Lianshui Sect's northern plans at a crucial moment. Resolving this matter during Baishan’s peace likely indicated a prior understanding with Chai Yi. "You," Lu Yunzi traced another line on the Mian River, turning his gaze to Qi Xiu, "The banks of the Mian River will be under your Chu Qin Sect's management." Unexpectedly gaining a benefit, Qi Xiu expressed gratitude, "Thank you, Sect Master." While kneeling, he realized this was likely a strategic move to separate future Jiang family influence from the Spiritwood Alliance, making his Chu Qin territory a convenient divider. Nevertheless, rejecting freely given land was unwise, especially since refusal wasn’t an option. Surveying the map, he noted the Mian River's fertile, narrow banks capable of supporting many residents, even if devoid of cultivation resources, save for a solitary third-tier sect gate belonging to the Wei family—the same family proposing Zhan Jianfeng’s marriage arrangement. "Sometimes, the world works in mysterious ways," he mused with a cold smile. In just half the time it took for an incense stick to burn, Lu Yunzi, as the Qi Yun Sect Master, resolved all matters surrounding Bihu. As Qi Xiu departed, Lu Yunzi commenced swiftly ejecting various factions near Bihu within a set timeframe and, concurrently, began intense preparations for the Fengshui region opening war and Bihu Palace’s construction. "Let me piece this together from the start." Rushing to the Chu family within the Qi Yun Sect to discuss the next steps with Chu Shentong and others, Qi Xiu meticulously reviewed the events as he flew. "The Black Hand killings are rife with suspicion—Wan Xuan's disappearance, Tu Ziru’s 'escape,' and the deaths targeting sects like Qinglian Sword Sect, Tianli Sect, and Ji Xia City—the very ones opposed to Blackwind Valley. Coincidence? Intention?" "The collapse of the secret realm lasted three days, allowing time for various powers to assemble. Their covetous gaze set upon the Bihu secret realm pushed Qi Yun Sect into a passive stance, forcing Lu Yunzi to compromise with the Nangong family using the opening war as leverage. Coincidence? Intention?" "Considering those who benefit: the Rui Confucian Sect, victorious in the site selection dispute; the Nangong family, opting for the opening war amid Bihu Palace and war prospects; Jiang Huan, migrating south to seize Bihu Palace; and Lianshui Sect, realizing its northern migration dream..." "And those who found justification, rallied forces seeking a share in Bihu secret realm’s plunder, while planning to land a fatal blow to Blackwind Valley—Tianli Sect, Qinglian Sword Sect, Ji Xia City, and these so-called 'victims’..." Who has the means and intent to orchestrate such a conspiracy? Perhaps more than one entity. Yet Qi Xiu returned to skepticism. The transformative prowess of a Nascent Soul, enigmatic beyond belief, accompanied by figures like Gui Zheng who bestowed a string of Buddhist beads on Miao Qing, aiding in capturing a reincarnated deity in Star City years later. Would such schemes allow mere outsiders like him to discern the true purpose behind the 'Black Hand' chaos simply through conjecture? "Who possesses the power to project false 'truths,' exposing beneficiaries to scrutiny while concealing their own true goals?" That, he couldn’t fathom. (To be continued)