Book 3 Chapter 33: The Undisputed First in Tufan - Martial God

Chapter 33: The Undisputed First in Tufan The abrupt declaration by He Yiming caught everyone present off guard, their expressions shifting dramatically. Shui Xuanzhen's ears perked up considerably, fluttering like oversized fans. In a heartbeat, his gaze sharpened as he announced, "Mao Lieguang has arrived." From that moment on, the innate experts looked at He Yiming with heightened admiration and respect. Having known each other for years, they were intimately familiar with each other's abilities. They all knew that Shui Xuanzhen not only specialized in the rare art of wind techniques but had also developed a unique secret skill: the "Ear of the Wind." This peculiar ability wasn't particularly useful in direct combat, but for monitoring the surrounding environment, it was an extraordinary, unparalleled skill. It was because of this remarkable skill that they felt safe discussing such taboo topics openly in the capital of Kai Rong. One must understand that within this city, there is a formidable top-tier master of Kai Rong. If he were to overhear these secrets, it would undoubtedly spell disaster for the smaller nations. Prior to this, they felt utterly secure under Shui Xuanzhen's protection. But now they finally realized... In the Tianluo Kingdom, this young and incredible innate master not only surpassed them all in strength but also exceeded Shui Xuanzhen in the use of his "Ear of the Wind," securing the title of the foremost individual within the entire Kai Rong domain. Ting Shiguang shot He Yiming a deep look and suggested, "Since Mao Lieguang is here, let's go out to greet him." Naturally, no one objected to this proposal. Given that this renowned innate expert, second only to Zhan Tianfeng, had come personally, it was only appropriate for everyone to welcome him. After all, Mao Lieguang wasn't representing just himself but the entire Kai Rong. However, Shui Xuanzhen suddenly interjected, "This isn't suitable. If he sees us all together, he might grow suspicious. It’d be better if we disperse." The group paused, then nodded one by one. ※※※※ True to prediction, Mao Lieguang arrived at the embassy quarter where important figures from various subordinate countries resided. Unexpectedly, he sought only to visit the two Keeper Masters from Tianluo. Had this been before He Yiming's confrontation with Zhao Rupei and others, they might have been baffled by it. Mao Lieguang’s decision to personally travel to Tianluo with an invitation, and to visit promptly the next day upon arrival in Kai Rong, was a treatment unimaginable for just anyone. However, having witnessed He Yiming's prowess, they had to concede that He merited such attention due to his strength, age, and potential. After settling into the reception hall, He Yiming and Shui Xuanzhen greeted him. Following some trivial exchange, Mao Lieguang subtly referenced the house that had collapsed during the battle among numerous innate experts. He Yiming and Shui Xuanzhen exchanged glances; they both knew that no matter what, there was no hiding such a matter from the local powers of Kai Rong. However, they assumed that once Kai Rong’s people realized it was due to a clash among nine innate experts, they’d turn a blind eye. Even with Kai Rong’s formidable national strength, it wouldn’t risk offending so many masters over just one building. Yet, they never expected that merely an hour or so later, Mao Lieguang would come in person and inquire about it openly. A ridiculous thought occurred to them both—could Mao Lieguang be genuinely pursuing this matter? Shui Xuanzhen coughed lightly and said, "Brother Mao, Brother He and Zhao Rupei merely exchanged a move. It's nothing serious." Though his tone was casual, as if a single sentence could smooth things over, Mao Lieguang knew all too well how unlikely ease was in a clash between innate experts. Smiling slightly, he replied, "Brother Shui, Brother He, you’ve just arrived. Zhao Rupei and others tested you; they surely don’t have good intentions." Surprised, He Yiming asked, "Why would Brother Mao say that?" Mao Lieguang chuckled, "Brother He, having just become the innate master of Tianluo, you might be unaware. Surrounding Tianluo are formidable adversaries. They merely wish to ascertain your strength for future considerations." Appearing unperturbed, Shui Xuanzhen seemed not to hear, while He Yiming, after a brief contemplation, gained sudden clarity. Despite forming an alliance under the pressure of mighty Kai Rong, Zhao Rupei and others were not in Kai Rong's interest. Any chance to sow discord among the innate experts of smaller nations was capitalized upon. Of course, his words held some truth. They certainly sought to assess He’s mettle. Without their acknowledgment, during Kai Rong’s interference in Tianluo, there would be no support; rather, one had to watch for them to strike first, seeking to claim a piece of the spoils. Realizing this, He Yiming's goodwill towards Zhao Rupei and others significantly waned. He also harbored serious doubts about the stability of this small alliance. Mao Lieguang’s eyes glimmered briefly with satisfaction. He knew that anyone who advanced to innate status was no fool; mention of a topic could lead them to deduce the necessary facts. But continuing could prove excessive. "Brother He, I came today to invite you to visit Tufan's quarters." At this, even Shui Xuanzhen, usually tranquil like a meditating monk, showed a hint of surprise. He asked loudly, "What purpose does Brother Mao have in mind with this sudden invitation?" Mao Lieguang's expression turned solemn, "Among the eight innate masters from Tufan, Muguang Tian leads them." Mao Lieguang’s demeanor shifted to gravity, "Muguang Tian? Is that the one from Tufan reputed as the best under the top-tier among the hundred scattered heavens?" Mao Lieguang nodded slowly, "Brother Shui, Brother He, there’s nothing to hide at this point. Tufan sent Muguang Tian here to display their strength." He sighed deeply, "But his prowess is unfathomable. Aside from Master Zhan Tianfeng, no one stands a chance." Saying this, he glanced at He Yiming, hinting at something unsaid. Turning to Shui Xuanzhen, He Yiming found the old man hesitating before explaining, "Among the three major powers in the northwest, each has a top-tier expert. Below them are the scattered hundred innate masters. Among them, Muguang Tian of Tufan is hailed as the strongest beneath the top-tier, even having reached the age of…" He chuckled bitterly, "At over a hundred and twenty years old, he's consistently recognized as unparalleled beneath the top-tier." Immediately, a gleam sparkled in He Yiming's eyes. While in Hengshan, similar accolades were attributed to him, spoken by none other than the top-tier master Yu Jinglei. But now, he was hearing another receiving the same praise from different lips. An odd thought emerged in his mind: perhaps they were destined to confront each other to determine who truly was the strongest below the top-tier. "Brother Shui," Mao Lieguang interjected suddenly, “a month ago, I might have thought the same. But now…” He chuckled, glancing at He Yiming, "With Master He’s martial prowess, how could Tufan claim the top spot?" Amused, He Yiming understood well Mao Lieguang’s aim to sow discord and incite him against Muguang Tian, hoping for conflict to Kai Rong’s advantage. However, truthfully, knowing such a figure resided in the heart of Kai Rong stirred genuine interest within He Yiming. Even without crossing blades, meeting him would suffice. "Very well, Brother Mao's invitation will not go unanswered," He Yiming agreed, standing up. "Since that's settled, let's proceed." Mao Lieguang’s mouth almost fell open in surprise; he hadn’t expected just a mention of Muguang Tian’s skill would convince He Yiming to readily visit Tufan's quarters. His eyes flickered with astonishment and joy, though it was quickly suppressed. Yet, it couldn't elude the keen attention of He Yiming and Shui Xuanzhen. Shui Xuanzhen looked at He Yiming with some concern, but He Yiming returned a comforting glance. For some reason, this calm expression immediately put Shui Xuanzhen’s mind at ease. He knew He Yiming wouldn’t let him down. ※※※※ In the western region of Kai Rong's capital stood a vast manor adorned with countless exquisite landscapes. Far more opulent than Shaoming Residence in Tianluo, this place seamlessly blended luxury and elegance. Even within the entirety of Kai Rong, few places could rival its grandeur. Currently, this manor was home to the eight innate experts from Tufan. Only ambassadors from Tufan, one of the three great powers, would be accorded a treatment surpassing even that of Shui Xuanzhen and the others. Kai Rong attendants were stationed at the entrance, tasked with guarding the manor. Officially there to protect, their true purpose was apparent. A lavish carriage gradually came to a halt before the manor gates. Upon recognizing the emblem on the carriage, the guards' expressions shifted dramatically. They rushed forward anxiously, taking positions on either side of the door. The carriage bore a distinctive symbol, signifying one of the esteemed ten innate experts from Kai Rong’s renowned Master Hall could be aboard. Regardless of who emerged, they were not to be trifled with. The carriage door opened slowly, and an elderly man descended leisurely. Upon seeing him, awe spread among the attendants present. They knew the carriage carried a Master Hall defender, likely coming to meet the Tufan masters. However, spotting the person stepping down, they collectively drew a sharp breath. Mao Lieguang—the second most powerful innate expert in all of Kai Rong. What startled them further was the normally stern master’s rare smile. As he turned halfway toward the carriage door, it seemed he was welcoming someone of utmost significance. Among all of Kai Rong, there was likely only one person deserving of such respect from him. The attendants familiar with Mao Lieguang perked up, eyes fixed on the still-open carriage door. A foot stepped out, and excitement glinted in all their eyes as they anticipated seeing Kai Rong’s legendary guardian deity. Yet, just moments later, their excitement turned to disbelief as a young man, an unexpected figure, emerged confidently from the carriage. This man, devoid of imposing aura, seemed ordinary—a young man unfamiliar with martial skills, appearing utterly unremarkable. Bewildered, the guards exchanged glances, unable to fathom why Mao Lieguang would display such courtesy, or even faint deference, to this individual. The two figures stepped down and entered the manor side by side, unobstructed by the attendants, who grew only more perplexed. Of course, it was He Yiming who alighted, deliberately concealing the innate aura typical of his rank. Thus, unless facing another expert of equal standing, none could discern his true power. Mao Lieguang, though puzzled by He Yiming’s discretion, felt reassured by his humble demeanor. It signified that He Yiming took Muguang Tian and his fellows seriously, without a shred of arrogance. With Mao Lieguang leading, they traversed past the myriad guards effortlessly. Not even those from faraway Tufan dared to hinder Kai Rong’s master, informing their superiors swiftly instead. By the time they approached the grand hall, a Tufan innate expert awaited their arrival. This elder, with white hair and beard, wore unique attire, notably with a single sleeve and beads dangling from the hem, jingling melodically as he moved, invigorating the spirit. "Brother Mao, I apologize for not welcoming you sooner," the old man smiled, slightly bowing. Mao Lieguang laughed heartily, "Brother Su Jun, I never expected you would personally greet us, making me feel undeservingly honored." Su Jun returned the smile, his eyes momentarily flitting over He Yiming before pausing, seemingly surprised. Again, his gaze settled on He Yiming, initially assuming the young man a mere accompaniment of Mao Lieguang. Yet, the longer he observed, the deeper his curiosity grew. Gradually, his gaze intensified. Mao Lieguang sighed inwardly, knowing well Tufan’s innate experts wouldn't be fooled. Smiling slightly, he introduced, “Old Brother Su Jun, let me present He Yiming, a master from Hengshan's lineage.” Su Jun’s eyebrows twitched subtly, acknowledging deeply with a nod, though internally a tempest raged. This young man truly was an innate master... Among Tufan's eight experts, Su Jun ranked just behind Muguang Tian. Given his savvy, upon closely observing He Yiming, he quickly recognized the authenticity of youth, not the preserved appearance of age-defying skill. Yet precisely this realization left him astounded. Abruptly recalling a distant affair—one buzzing even in Tufan—a realization shook his visage. “Could you be He Yiming, the innate master from Tianluo?” Su Jun asked, his tone laden with surprise. He Yiming was taken aback. How far his reputation had reached, for even experts in Tufan knew of him. Lifting his head, the formidable presence he’d suppressed gradually unfolded. Su Jun inhaled deeply, finally perceiving the overwhelming aura emanating from He Yiming. In that instant, a revelation dawned upon him. Perhaps the past rumors were not exaggerated in the slightest... He Yiming smiled gently, "Master Su Jun, might I ask, where is Master Muguang Tian?"