Book 3 Chapter 32: Small Alliance - Martial God

### Chapter 32: Small Alliance The transformation right before their eyes instilled an eerily intense feeling in everyone present. When He Yi Ming unleashed his palm strike, it was as if a whirlwind had stirred the clouds; all who bore witness seemed to hear the sharp sound of air being cleft in an instant. The immense power contained within that strike was such that no one dared to underestimate it. The innate cultivator targeted by its might wasted no time deploying his most formidable technique, hoping to withstand the mighty blow. However, no one anticipated the seemingly powerful strike to change direction midway. The power remained the same, as did the momentum and imposing aura. Yet, this palm's target abruptly shifted. Another innate cultivator’s face fell, a flash of alarm glistening in his eyes. At that moment, he felt an extreme sense of danger, causing the hair on his body to stand on end. There was a peculiar sensation: He Yi Ming’s strike had far exceeded what he could endure. If he attempted to flee, this strike would be inescapable. Thus, without hesitation, he instantly gathered all his true energy, though it was inevitably lacking strength due to the haste. However, at such a crucial juncture, he had no other choice. With a resounding shout, he spread his legs into a stance, lowered his center of gravity, and raised his palms, preparing to meet the oncoming strike. But, in the next moment, his eyes widened just like the first individual’s, discovering that He Yi Ming’s devastating palm did not draw closer, but rather drifted farther away. Maintaining his composure, He Yi Ming nimbly stepped out. Though the terrain was strewn with rocks, he moved as though on even ground, circling the six innate cultivators with astonishing speed. After making a full round, he passed by each of them once, and each sensed the terrifying presence of potentially being crushed under his overwhelming aura. Yet, despite this demonstration, He Yi Ming did not unleash the strike. Returning to his original position, his gaze was resolutely fixed ahead. Everyone felt as though he was primarily focusing all his energy inward. Even though He Yi Ming never fully released his charged strike, his aura had already climbed to its peak; it was like a massive powder keg, poised to explode at any moment. It wasn’t just the six innate cultivators standing against him who held their breaths—both Shui Xuan Jin and Ting Shi Guang dared not act rashly. Confronted with this indescribable, vast energy, they all felt they could not withstand He Yi Ming’s blow. And what would be the consequence of failing to endure it? No one dared to imagine the outcome, their sole thought being to avoid any conflict with He Yi Ming, no matter how minor. Gradually, He Yi Ming’s imposing presence began to recede bit by bit. Even as his aura reached its zenith, like a fully drawn bowstring demanding release, he consciously allowed his force to diminish, bit by bit. Yet, even under the watchful eyes of six innate masters, He Yi Ming showed no fear in reining in his immense aura, as if confident that none would dare seize the opportunity to strike back. Though the six innate cultivators wore unsightly expressions, none dared to act impulsively. They simply watched as He Yi Ming gathered his presence completely. Throughout, none of the six ever seriously considered counterattacking. Once He Yi Ming had fully drawn back his aura, they unexpectedly felt an immense sense of relief. Their perception of He Yi Ming had fundamentally changed. No longer did their eyes harbor doubt, evaluations, or disdain for the young strongman. Now their eyes brimmed with respect, tinged with jealousy and dismay, yet no one dared express it outright. To attain innate cultivation is akin to a fish leaping through the Dragon Gate—a paradigm shift from usual human thinking. In their view, notions of hierarchy or age began to lose significance. What truly commanded the respect of innate cultivators was power, a strength that surpassed their own. Seeing He Yi Ming exhibit strength far exceeding their personal abilities finally made the previously rumored tales about him credible, solidifying his dominant stance amongst them. Turning his gaze, He Yi Ming’s face softened into a warm smile akin to a gentle breeze. He spoke, "I am He Yi Ming. Greetings to the masters defending our nation." Inwardly grateful, Shui Xuan Jin knew He Yi Ming was not naturally arrogant. Yet, meeting many innate masters for the first time required making a showing. And He Yi Ming did so with a daring, almost dismissive manner—seemingly unconcerned by their presence. This unusual behavior, evident to Shui Xuan Jin, signified He Yi Ming acting on his behalf. Such a formidable display would spread the renown of Tianluo’s new national protector, potentially deterring rival countries from contemplating Tianluo in their schemes. Before the six innate cultivators could respond, exclamations echoed from all sides, accompanied by hurried footsteps approaching the scene. Exchanging glances and observing the chaotic aftermath, a mutual, wry smile arose among them. Though the seven great innate cultivators had not exerted all their strength, even a slight clash generated an exceptional uproar. The sound of a vast building collapsing could not escape notice from those outside. In moments, numerous people converged on the site, their attire varied, signaling different affiliations. Some were national guards, disciples under the innate masters here, or servants of Kaifeng Nation dwelling nearby. Despite their varied statuses, upon arriving and witnessing the nine figures here, even the once loudest and most arrogant were struck silent, behaving like the most obedient kittens. Those present had recognized the significance held by the figures before them. All except He Yi Ming were elder figures known for their decades of renown. Their appearances and attires were familiar to those with keen senses. If only one appeared, perhaps not all would recognize him. But with nine present, any observer was compelled to notice. Lastly, seeing the young man subtly encircled by the elder figures, their minds raced with intrigue. Shui Xuan Jin gently shook his head. "Let us find another place to converse, shall we?" His proposal was met with unanimous agreement; none wished to linger under such scrutiny any longer. The innate cultivators dusted off their garments and strode away. They ignored the mess and the curious, excited gazes behind them. Among practitioners, those yet to reach the pinnacle mattered little, even those on the cusp of innate cultivation. Once they vanished from view, the area slowly resumed its bustle. First came soft whispers, quickly spreading. The eyes of everyone present sparkled with undeniable excitement and reverence. The assemblage largely consisted of guards from various nations. Each had only one innate master presiding over them. In ordinary times, they had no chance to see such top masters. Even Kaifeng Nation's servants found a meeting nearly as improbable. Thus, witnessing nine innate masters gathering filled every heart with fervent excitement. A man stepped forward, cupping his fists at the crowd, advising, "Let's clean up and disperse. Standing around looks terribly unsightly." This man was Yu Ke Fan of Tianluo Nation. His sincere tone and bright, clear gaze communicated authority. Another joined him, none other than Ting Gui Li of the Fire Crow Nation. With his concurrence, the head guards from other countries readily agreed. Soon after, the crowd dispersed, leaving behind only a select few tasked with tidying the chaotic aftermath. Although none had witnessed the clash between these innate cultivators, it certainly fueled everyone's boundless imagination. Within a single day, the city buzzed with countless rumors, making it difficult to discern truth from fabrication. Regardless, in each version of the tales, He Yi Ming was unfailingly one of the main characters. Such a youthful innate cultivator naturally became the focal point of attention. Coupled with the circumstances of his appearance, the townsfolk couldn’t help but indulge in wild speculation. ※※※※ Upon entering a new chamber, everyone found their seats. Following brief and simple introductions, He Yi Ming learned the names of these masters. Zhao Ru Pei, Xu Ze Chun, Li Qing Xian, Zhang Xing Feng, Zhao Zhan Yang, and Wang Xi Xiang. These six masters were protective innate guardians from subsidiary nations under Kaifeng. Judging by their demeanor, they seemed to have a rapport with Shui Xuan Jin and Ting Shi Guang. Shui Xuan Jin glanced around the group and gravely declared, “Gentlemen, you have all witnessed Brother He’s strength. Is there anyone who opposes his inclusion among us?” The innate masters exchanged wry smiles; at this point, opposing would be sheer folly. He Yi Ming’s expression shifted subtly. Observing their faces, he sensed Shui Xuan Jin might be withholding something from him. After contemplating briefly, he asked, "Brother Shui, what do you mean by this?" With a full measure of contrition, Shui Xuan Jin replied, "Brother He, it’s my fault—I didn’t disclose everything to you in advance." Ting Shi Guang offered a slight smile. “Brother He, you cannot blame Brother Shui. We had an agreement long ago: without a majority's consent, this matter could not be revealed.” He Yi Ming’s curiosity piqued as he observed the solemn faces of the innate cultivators. Then, a hunch struck him regarding the nations they protected, prompting his brows to lift abruptly. “Kaifeng Nation?” Sighing deeply, Shui Xuan Jin confirmed, “You’re correct, Brother He. Us protective masters of the smaller nations secretly allied decades ago.” Master Zhao Ru Pei exchanged a glance with the others and then addressed He Yi Ming, “Master He, regarding our alliance, besides ourselves, it has never been disclosed to anyone else. Thus, Brother Shui truly wasn't intentionally keeping it from you, and we ask for your understanding.” With that, he gave a deep bow, and simultaneously, the other innate cultivators offered the same gesture. He Yi Ming’s expression shifted slightly, unwilling to accept such a profound courtesy without reason. With a fluid motion, he drifted away like the wind. Among these innate cultivators, who keenly observed He Yi Ming’s movement, admiration brewed despite having previously experienced his prowess. Witnessing it as an observer evoked a distinctly striking impression. Such graceful and agile movement imparted a strong impact, invigorating everyone present. However, the next moment found their gazes shifting towards Shui Xuan Jin with a curious glint. They discerned that He Yi Ming’s technique embodied elements of wind—a similarity noted in Shui Xuan Jin’s known cultivation of wind-style power. Yet, they perceived variations between their techniques. Notably, He Yi Ming surpassed Shui Xuan Jin both in speed and the agility of his movements, seeming more advanced. Having evaded their grand gesture, He Yi Ming felt his initial frustration dissipate. After all, standing before him were six innate masters. When such eminent figures sincerely apologized, even He Yi Ming couldn’t help but feel gratified. However, a slight furrow remained on his brow as his eyes conveyed caution and hesitation. The meaning behind Shui Xuan Jin and the others’ words was clear—they had allied in secret to combine efforts against Kaifeng Nation’s imposing pressure. Yet Kaifeng Nation boasted ten innate masters. Opposing such a formidable opponent required immense courage. Even He Yi Ming hesitated to decide whether he wanted to join such a fledgling group. The centenarians, including Ting Shi Guang, exchanged a knowing look upon observing He Yi Ming’s expression. Zhao Ru Pei cleared his throat gently and spoke, “Master He, I understand your concerns. However, permit me to speak candidly: Kaifeng Nation harbors significant ambition. Their aim extends beyond encompassing a third of the Northwest into their territory. They also covet the hidden clans within their sphere.” He Yi Ming raised an eyebrow, his expression revealing complete assurance, clearly indicating not an ounce of concern. “Brother Zhao, saying they wish to target Hengshan is perhaps overstated. Characters like Cheng Fu and Mao Lie Guang aren’t sufficient for that task.” Yet Zhao Ru Pei retained utmost seriousness. “Master He, are you aware that within Kaifeng’s hall of masters, Mao Lie Guang isn’t the top expert? The true leading figure is an august elder of the Kaifeng royal family who has long secluded himself.” He Yi Ming felt a twitch of intrigue, recalling eavesdropped conversations between Kaifeng’s Third Prince and Cheng Fu. From their words, the elder’s reputation exceeded even Cheng Fu’s shadow. Hesitating, He Yi Ming inquired, “Who is this elder?” Eyes narrowing, Zhao Ru Pei’s response came with uneasy respect, even evident in his capabilities. “He is none other than Kaifeng’s foremost innate cultivator, Zhan Tian Feng. He is the sole—a master of the Heavenly Lineage.” He Yi Ming drew a sharp breath. Before his journey to Hengshan, he hadn't fully comprehended what a Heavenly Lineage cultivator signified. However, since witnessing how Yu Jing Lei effortlessly felled an innate master, He Yi Ming understood the terror of such formidable warriors. “Master He, it’s rumored there exists a Heavenly Lineage cultivator within the Hengshan Sect,” Zhao Ru Pei continued. “Otherwise, Zhan Tian Feng might have already set his sights on your sect.” With a slight snort, He Yi Ming recalled Hengshan’s ancient medicinal gardens and Yu Jing Lei and Yao Dao Ren’s concerns over succession—they seemed credible. Without a profound sense of crisis, how could they be so hasty? As Zhao Ru Pei spoke, all remained silent, recognizing his rhetorical prowess among them. An invitation hadn’t even been formally extended, yet He Yi Ming found his heart stirring with interest. Perhaps only by uniting all possible forces could they stand against Kaifeng, this looming and ghastly behemoth. Suddenly, He Yi Ming’s ears twitched as his expression altered. “Gentlemen, Mao Lie Guang is on his way!”