Chapter 187: One Punch Defeats the Two Qi Masters

Chapter 187: One Punch Defeats a Two-Qi Grandmaster

A Later Jin expert walked up to Yan Gang, then extended his hand, his fingers trembling as he placed them under Yan Gang’s nose, and whispered, “Dead… he’s dead. Yan Gang is dead.”

Even Dharma King Mujin found it hard to remain calm at this moment, his face showing a hint of gravity.

Yan Gang was the Later Jin’s foremost swordsman, a Genius swordsman highly regarded even by Zongzheng Huachun, who claimed he would definitely become one of the top swordsmen of his generation with boundless prospects.

Swordsmanship was not particularly prevalent in Later Jin, so a top swordsman was extremely rare.

Thus, Yan Gang was not only very famous in Later Jin but also highly anticipated and watched.

But now, he had died by a single sword strike from the Ghost Swordsman.

“What terrifying swordsmanship.”

Dharma King Mujin’s mind kept replaying the Ghost Swordsman’s strike, and his brows furrowed tightly.

He had seen the swordsmanship of top swordsmen, but never one as ‘unique’ as the Ghost Swordsman’s, which gave him a profound sense of weight, as if facing a mountain.

The Cultivation of weapons like swords, sabers, and spears is divided into seven Realms, and different Dao will also produce different intents, leading to many schools.

However, the Realm divisions for fist and foot Body Refining are much simpler, with only one Dao, divided into four major Realms: Body and Mind as One, Flawless Body, Heaven-Man Connection, and Heaven-Man Unity.

To advance to Grandmaster, one must reach the first Realm, Body and Mind as One.

And it is extremely difficult for ninety-nine percent of the world’s experts to reach the Realm of Body and Mind as One.

The Buddhist Bodhisattva Puhui Cultivated the Buddhist True Martial level martial art, the Vajra Indestructible Body, to Perfection; even such a Grandmaster Realm expert was only at the Flawless Body Realm.

Xiao Qianqiu was also at the Flawless Body Realm before his battle with Lou Xiangzhen, vaguely touching upon Heaven-Man Connection, though whether he actually reached this Realm is unknown.

From this, it can be seen that the difficulty of crossing Body Refining Realms is extremely arduous, far from the rapid early strength improvement of blade and sword weapons, and the difficulty requirements are also extremely high.

Therefore, even some of the world’s top fist and foot Body Refining experts, and even some famous Grandmaster experts, only remain at the Flawless Body Realm.

Those who can reach Heaven-Man Connection are almost as rare as phoenix feathers and qilin horns; such experts are either old monsters or hidden away Cultivating in some unknown corner, rarely appearing in the Jianghu.

Whether they even exist is an unknown.

Although the improvement of fist and foot Body Refining Realms is extremely difficult, each Realm increase brings a visible improvement in strength.

The span is even more exaggerated than the last three Realms of weapon momentum.

The fist and finger Body Refining techniques An Jing has Cultivated so far are only the Buddhist Brahma Heart Sees Me and the Nine Yang Divine Finger.

Because he focused on Cultivating swordsmanship, he didn’t pay much attention to these two types of martial arts, and has not yet reached the Realm of Body and Mind as One.

However, this Realm is not difficult for his Aptitude; the only difficulty is when he will reach the Realm of Body and Mind as One.

The field was silent for a long time before a Later Jin expert whispered, “Dharma King, what do we do now?”

Dharma King Mujin said in a deep voice, “Take Yan Gang’s body, we’re leaving.”

Then, a group of Later Jin experts carried Yan Gang’s body and walked out the door.

And just as Dharma King Mujin was leaving, his eyes intentionally or unintentionally glanced at An Jing, and the killing intent in his eyes flashed and disappeared.

“Oh, this blood is good. It looks auspicious.”

Qiu Lun walked over at this moment, looking at the fresh red blood on the ground and muttering to himself.

Marquis of Pingyang, Qiu Heng, also called out, “Everyone, don’t mind it. Eat and drink as you please.”

“Well killed.”

Many Imperial Court officials were greatly delighted to see this; how could they not be excited to blunt the sharp edge of the Later Jin people?

Gao Sheng looked at the Ghost Swordsman, who was still drinking with Li Fuzhou, and slowly said, “I saw Dharma King Mujin glance at the Ghost Swordsman when he left. If the Emperor and we ignore it, I’m afraid the Ghost Swordsman won’t live past tonight.”

Tang Taiyuan said lightly, “Although this person saved Princess Anle and killed Yan Gang, he is an enemy of the State Religion and is friendly with the Demonic Sect villain. He might not be a disaster, but he absolutely cannot die by Dharma King Mujin’s hand.”

Gao Sheng nodded, agreeing with Tang Taiyuan’s latter statement.

Good and bad are merely different opposing sides, or different interests.

When the Ghost Swordsman killed Yan Gang, he also said that because Dharma King Mujin rescued Qi Shu, Later Jin had to pay a life today.

In the eyes of the Great Yan Jianghu, Yan Gang might have been arrogant and unforgivable, but in the eyes of the Later Jin people, Yan Gang was a hero.

One man’s poison is another man’s honey.

One man’s villain is another man’s hero.

Just as Tang Taiyuan said, the Ghost Swordsman and Li Fuzhou of the Demonic Sect were talking happily, so in his eyes, he was undeniably a villain.

Gao Sheng pondered for a moment, then reminded, “Lord Tang, be careful in the Eight Zhang Platform battle.”

If an ordinary Half-Step Grandmaster dared to challenge Tang Taiyuan, in Gao Sheng’s eyes, it would undoubtedly be courting death; let alone a Half-Step Grandmaster, even a One Qi Grandmaster would surely die.

But today, the one challenging him was Li Fuzhou.

In Gao Sheng’s eyes, there were many scholars in the world, ninety-nine percent of whom were bookworms, and Li Fuzhou was the only person he had seen so far who had brought books to life.

Tang Taiyuan’s expression was as calm as an abyss, “This old man will offer his head to the Human Emperor.”

Gao Sheng didn’t speak, but he was somewhat looking forward to the battle at Eight Zhang Platform.

Yue Tingchen sighed, “What a formidable swordsman. No wonder he gained such great renown in just one year and was so highly regarded by Jiang Sanjia, the Divine Calculator.”

His martial arts Realm was not high, but this did not prevent him from knowing how powerful Yan Gang was. And for such a powerful Yan Gang to be cut down with one sword strike was enough to show how extraordinary the Ghost Swordsman was.

Yue Tingchen’s words were neither too loud nor too soft, just enough for Mu Xiaowan to hear clearly.

The three words “Jiang Sanjia” pierced her heart like needles.

That feeling was very uncomfortable.

Jiang Sanjia had been sincere to her, but she had used him, and even forced him to his death in the end. This rather inglorious past was something she wanted to bury.

But the appearance of the Ghost Swordsman constantly reminded her of that unbearable past.

Mu Xiaowan looked at An Jing’s figure and sneered inwardly, “Since you want to kill me, then I’ll give you a chance.”

Everyone in the hall had different expressions, showing all sorts of attitudes; some felt overjoyed, others harbored killing intent.

Qiu Lun walked over to An Jing with a chuckle and said, “Big Brother, I toast you this cup of wine.”

An Jing calmly raised his wine glass and transmitted, “Yan Gang’s death seems to have been predetermined.”

From the big fatty’s demeanor, it was clear that today was a setup, either Lin Yiyang would make a move, or he himself would.

Qiu Lun thought for a moment and also transmitted, “Big Brother, be careful of Dharma King Mujin.”

In any case, having used the Town Evil Sword to kill Yan Gang today and fulfilling the secret order from the Crown Prince, it was impossible for Dharma King Mujin not to retaliate.

Logically speaking, Yujing City is full of experts, and even a Peak Two-Qi Grandmaster like Dharma King Mujin would not dare to act recklessly. However, the Ghost Swordsman had previously offended the Zhenyi Sect, had just confronted the White-browed Eunuch, and was now talking happily with Li Fuzhou, clearly a person who was neither loved by his grandmother nor his uncle. If Dharma King Mujin attacked him, the imperial family might not protect him.

An Jing said lightly, “I know.”

Qiu Lun thought for a moment and transmitted, “According to what I know, Mu Xiaowan was very close to the Second Prince before, but since the Tianji Pavilion fell, she hasn’t been as enthusiastic. However, she still has close ties with the Second Prince. Actually, the Crown Prince is a very good choice. Big Brother might consider it.”

In Qiu Lun’s opinion, although An Jing was currently surrounded by enemies, saving Princess Anle and killing Yan Gang were meritorious deeds for Great Yan. If he could connect with the Crown Prince, it would also be very good.

Despite Qiu Lun’s rough exterior, his mind was as fine as silk.

Sure enough, An Jing transmitted, “I have it in mind, no need for you to worry.”

“Alright, Big Brother, I’ll head over there now.”

Qiu Lun smiled and then walked into the distance.

Li Fuzhou looked at Qiu Lun’s retreating figure and said, “This mountain of flesh is quite cunning.”

An Jing nodded, “Extremely cunning.”

Li Fuzhou looked at Tan Yun, who was diligently ‘chewing slowly’ beside him, and said, “Tan Yun, hurry up and eat. We’re leaving once you’re full.”

Tan Yun wiped her mouth and asked in confusion, “Master, why are we leaving so quickly? Aren’t you going to see your old friends?”

“I’ve seen all those old friends.”

Li Fuzhou pointed to the officials in the distance, as well as Ling Yuanjing, Jia Shiwu, Zuo Biwen, and others.

Tan Yun blinked. Master said ‘take a look’ at old friends, and he really just ‘took a look’.

Li Fuzhou glanced at An Jing and said lightly, “Besides, if we don’t leave now, what if we attract trouble later?”

He had killed the Later Jin’s Genius swordsman, and Dharma King Mujin clearly wasn’t someone who would easily let things go; trouble would surely follow.

“Alright.”

Tan Yun reluctantly glanced at the half-eaten roasted chicken on the table, then her eyes suddenly lit up, “Mr. Zhou hasn’t eaten yet. Why don’t I bring him some? Otherwise, all this food will go to waste. Didn’t you often tell me to be frugal, Master?”

An Jing almost burst out laughing beside her. She clearly wanted to eat it herself!

Li Fuzhou didn’t even have an invitation when he came, and he didn’t pay a single cent for a congratulatory gift. Good heavens, you’re already eating for free, and now you want to pack some to go.

Li Fuzhou let out a long sigh and said, “As you wish.”

Tan Yun waved to a servant of the Pingyang Marquis Manor, then whispered a few words.

The servant of the Pingyang Marquis Manor was startled, then quickly walked towards the kitchen, and soon returned with some kraft paper, which he handed to Tan Yun.

Tan Yun didn’t stand on ceremony and packed the delicious food from the table into the kraft paper.

“Let’s go.”

Li Fuzhou cupped his hands to Qiu Heng and then walked out the door.

Tan Yun also followed, feeling satisfied.

An Jing drank another cup and was about to get up when a figure slowly walked over.

It was none other than Bai Jing, the Crown Prince’s Junior Tutor.

Bai Jing smiled and said, “It seems Your Excellency’s swordsmanship has improved again. Congratulations.”

An Jing said lightly, “There’s nothing worth mentioning about that.”

Bai Jing took out a post from his懷 and said, “This is an invitation from the Crown Prince for Your Excellency.”

“Hero’s Invitation?”

An Jing raised an eyebrow.

Bai Jing smiled, “The Crown Prince has invited experts from the Six Great Sects, as well as some Jianghu elders, to hold a Hero’s Gathering on May 17th. Since Your Excellency possesses the Mind-Cultivation Technique of the Da Luo Sect and the Ghost Valley Sect, you can attend as the Sect Leader of the Da Luo Sect, as the Da Luo Sect is still registered with the Ministry of Revenue.”

An Jing glanced at the Hero’s Invitation, then waved his hand and said, “I’m not interested in this Hero’s Gathering.”

Bai Jing frowned slightly, then still put the invitation away and said, “Then I apologize for disturbing you. If Your Excellency is interested, you can come to Rain Flower Courtyard at any time.”

With that, Bai Jing returned to her seat.

In the Jianghu, some people are accustomed to being unconventional, like Lou Xiangzhen before, and like the Ghost Swordsman in front of them now.

Many people, seeing this scene, became active in their thoughts.

Jia Shiwu frowned and said, "This Ghost Swordsman is truly too…"

Now, the Crown Prince had extended an olive branch to him, clearly wanting to protect the Ghost Swordsman, but the Ghost Swordsman actually refused.

Jia Meixian asked worriedly, "Grandpa, will there be trouble?"

Jia Shiwu shook his head, saying nothing.

Dai Danshu said in a deep voice, "This Ghost Swordsman is truly too arrogant."

Zuo Biwen thought for a moment and said, "I'll go talk to him."

"Brother Zuo."

Dai Danshu stopped Zuo Biwen and said, "He has already refused. No matter how much you say, it will be useless."

"This…"

Upon hearing this, Zuo Biwen showed a difficult expression.

Indeed, the Ghost Swordsman had refused the Crown Prince's good intentions. Now, no matter what he said, he couldn't change the current situation.

An Jing stood up, cupped his hands to Qiu Heng, and said, "Marquis, I'll take my leave."

Qiu Heng nodded solemnly, "Please."

"Big Brother." Qiu Lun thought for a moment and still called out loudly, "Don't you want to drink a few more cups?"

Instantly, everyone looked over.

"Hahahahaha."

An Jing laughed loudly and walked out the main door under everyone's gaze.

"He might die."

Qiu Wanxia looked at An Jing's retreating figure and whispered.

Dharma King Mujin's temperament was extremely violent and ruthless. The Ghost Swordsman had killed a Later Jin Genius in broad daylight; it was impossible for him not to retaliate.

"Let's go take a look."

Lin Yiyang heard this, slowly stood up, and followed.

He Chen looked at Ling Yuanjing beside him, "Junior Brother?"

Ling Yuanjing pondered for a while, then said, "Let's go."

Setting aside the fact that the Ghost Swordsman could not die yet, even if he were to die, he could not die at the hands of the Later Jin people. How would the world view Great Yan then?

Outside Pingyang Marquis Manor, the sky was clear, and the sun was warm.

Many beggars who had been standing at the entrance asking for wedding money also dispersed, seemingly wanting to spread the news of Yan Gang's death throughout the entire Yujing City in an instant.

There were only a few scattered passersby and people leaving the wedding banquet.

But everyone who saw the black-robed man walk out was stunned for a moment, then they all made way for him.

After walking about a dozen steps, An Jing's footsteps suddenly paused, and he looked into the distance.

In front was an old man dressed in Later Jin attire.

At this moment, he stood alone in the center of the street, with no one else around him.

"It's Dharma King Mujin."

Someone whispered, "He hasn't left yet."

Then, the world fell silent, and everyone watched the two of them.

Dharma King Mujin looked at the black-robed man in front and said, "Your Excellency's sword is very fast, faster than Yan Gang's."

An Jing said expressionlessly, "His sword was too slow."

"I want to know how fast Your Excellency's sword truly is."

Dharma King Mujin smiled and said, "It's still one move, to determine victory and defeat, life and death. What do you think?"

As Dharma King Mujin's words fell, everyone around felt a sense of solemnity.

The title of Dharma King in Great Snow Mountain was not something any expert could casually bear. In the vast Later Jin, there was only one top Sect, Great Snow Mountain, and it could be said that seventy percent of the experts came from Great Snow Mountain.

Great Snow Mountain had only five Great Dharma Kings, and Dharma King Mujin was one of them.

Moreover, Great Snow Mountain held a high status in Later Jin. The Dharma Kings' status was comparable to that of high-ranking officials of the state. Ordinarily, even royal nobles like Zongzhen Yuan found it difficult to dispatch experts of the Dharma King level.

This time, Later Jin's envoy to Great Yan, Dharma King Mujin, was ordered by Zongzheng Huachun to escort them, which clearly showed his importance.

Dharma King Mujin was an expert who became famous very early among the five Great Dharma Kings. His most famous battle was the debate between Buddhism and Great Snow Mountain thirty years ago.

Dharma King Mujin competed against the Great Yan Vajra of Buddhism.

It is said that at that time, the two fought for a day and a night on the Peak of the snow mountain, without a clear victor. It is said that that entire snow mountain was melted by the True Qi of the two, turning into a puddle of water.

Ultimately, the battle ended in a draw.

The Buddhist Vajras cultivated Body Refining techniques, and compared to the Bodhisattva fruit status, they were very skilled in killing. At the same Realm, they were extremely powerful existences.

Although the Great Yan Vajra had long since passed away, when he was alive, his Cultivation was at the Peak of a One Qi Grandmaster, and he even had a record of fighting a Two-Qi Grandmaster and surviving.

And Dharma King Mujin being able to compete with the Great Yan Vajra without a clear victor showed his formidable strength.

Now, thirty years had passed, and Dharma King Mujin must be far stronger than before, having improved further.

Throughout Dharma King Mujin's life to date, he had only two defeats: one was to another Dharma King, and the other was to Zongzheng Huachun.

Apart from that, he had no other defeats.

Dharma King Mujin's reputation in the Great Yan Jianghu naturally couldn't compare to Feng Lingyue and Qi Shu, but true experts who had traveled the world knew that Dharma King Mujin's strength was in no way inferior to Feng Lingyue and Qi Shu.

At this moment, Lin Yiyang and Qiu Wanxia also walked out.

In addition, there were Ling Yuanjing, Jia Shiwu, Dai Danshu, Zuo Biwen, and other experts from the Great Yan Jianghu.

No one expected Dharma King Mujin's retaliation to come so quickly, appearing right after the Ghost Swordsman left the manor.

Lin Yiyang said indifferently, "Within the same Realm, the number of moves doesn't matter."

Zuo Biwen nodded and said, "That's right. If the Dharma King really wants to compete, he can suppress his Realm to be the same as before."

If they were to directly exchange blows, the Ghost Swordsman, with his Half-Step Grandmaster Cultivation, would be no match for Dharma King Mujin. However, in the case of the same Realm, with the Ghost Swordsman's Dao of the Sword, Dharma King Mujin might not be his opponent.

"Those are games for children; we only rely on raw strength."

Dharma King Mujin narrowed his eyes, looked at An Jing, and said, "Your Excellency, do you dare to take one move from me?"

"This Dharma King Mujin is truly despicable."

Qiu Lun couldn't help but let out a cold snort, "Big Brother, didn't you want to drink a few more cups with me? Let's go back and continue drinking."

Everyone could see that Dharma King Mujin was trying to save face, wanting to emulate the Ghost Swordsman's killing of Yan Gang, and also wanting to kill the Ghost Swordsman with one strike.

Dharma King Mujin glanced at Qiu Lun, a hint of gloom surfacing. It was clear that this fat man was trying to give the Ghost Swordsman a way out.

Everyone present looked at An Jing, some joyful, some worried.

That the Ghost Swordsman could kill a One Qi Grandmaster was no secret to those present, but the gap between a One Qi Grandmaster and a Two-Qi Grandmaster was not ordinary.

Moreover, Dharma King Mujin was very likely at the Peak of a Two-Qi Grandmaster, an expert on the verge of advancing to a Three-Qi Grandmaster.

"Are you scared? Is this what an expert of the Sword Immortal in Great Yan is like?"

Dharma King Mujin sneered mockingly.

He knew that the people of Great Yan were most susceptible to this kind of provocation.

"Since you're so eager to compete, then I can spar with you."

Just then, a hoarse voice resounded from afar.

Who is it!?

The sudden voice attracted everyone's attention, and they couldn't help but follow the sound with their gaze.

They saw a man wearing a Black Robe Guard cloak and with an extremely pale face walk out.

There were no Qi fluctuations on his body, just like An Jing. If he hadn't spoken, everyone would have thought he was just an ordinary commoner on the street.

"Hmm!?"

Tang Taiyuan, seeing this, couldn't help but be slightly startled.

The clothes the man was wearing were indeed the uniform of a Great Tiangang of the Black Robe Guard, but among the many Tiangang in the Black Robe Guard, he didn't recognize this person.

This person was none other than King Xu.

King Xu walked to An Jing's side and said with a smile, "I'm not late, am I?"

"Just right."

An Jing looked at Dharma King Mujin in front.

As early as when he was confronting the Seal-Holding Eunuch, he had crushed the ancient jade King Xu had given him.

Dharma King Mujin looked at King Xu, frowned, and said, "Who are you?"

The person in front of him seemed to have appeared out of thin air; he couldn't feel any fluctuations of aura from him.

King Xu said indifferently, "Who I am isn't important. Right now, I just want to know if I can kill you with one move."

Whoosh!

There was an uproar in the surrounding world, and everyone's expressions changed slightly.

To kill Dharma King Mujin with one move, even a Four Qi Grandmaster would probably find it difficult, right? Who was this person who spoke so arrogantly?

Ling Yuanjing said in a condensed voice, "Who is this person? Where did this madman come from?"

Gao Sheng also asked curiously, "Is he the Ghost Swordsman's helper?"

Bai Jing was also very surprised: "The Ghost Swordsman has an expert by his side? How is this possible!?"

If this was the helper the Ghost Swordsman relied on to refuse the Crown Prince's invitation, she was rather curious.

The White-browed Eunuch, seeing King Xu, furrowed his white brows: "Is that the mysterious Grandmaster?"

Dharma King Mujin, hearing King Xu's words, laughed, "You probably don't even know who I am, do you?"

In this world, someone actually said they would kill him with one move.

If it were the Human Emperor of Great Yan, or the old monster of Zhenyi Sect's Hidden Mountain, or even the thousand-year-old turtle at the bottom of this pond, it would make his heart race. But a casually appearing expert actually said he would kill him with one move?

"Come on."

King Xu waved his cloak and looked at Dharma King Mujin.

"Then I'll try Your Excellency's brilliant move and see if your mouth is tougher or your fist is tougher."

Dharma King Mujin sneered, but in his heart, he did not show the slightest carelessness or negligence.

Rustle, rustle, rustle.

The moment he finished speaking, strong winds surged around them, feeling like blades scraping against everyone's faces.

And Dharma King Mujin's body was extremely dazzling, exuding powerful strength. With every gesture, he could shatter the heavens and crack the earth.

Great Snow Mountain was the most top-tier Body Refining Sect in the world today, apart from Buddhism.

Dharma King Mujin cultivated the Heaven-Martial level Body Refining method, the Divine Image Art.

Boom! Boom! Boom!

Dharma King Mujin's True Qi surged forth. With a stomp of his foot, cracks visible to the naked eye appeared on the ground's flagstones, spreading into the distance.

His boxing and kicking skills, like those of Puhui Bodhisattva, had also reached the Flawless Body.

And his figure, like a ghost, shot out explosively, appearing in front of King Xu in a single breath. On his body, profound light patterns spread out.

Divine Image Heaven and Earth!

A fierce light flashed in Dharma King Mujin's eyes. As soon as he made his move, he directly unleashed his unique skill. Although he roared in anger, he went all out from the start.

A phantom appeared behind him, as if an ancient stone statue was faintly visible.

Boom!

Dharma King Mujin punched out. His fist instantly swelled up, and the enormous fist, like a mountain, slammed down fiercely. Even the air shattered, the earth cracked, and its power was terrifying.

However, many gazes, upon sweeping over King Xu, couldn't help but be stunned, because they found that King Xu remained motionless, allowing that heaven-shaking punch to strike.

"This person, doesn't even know to avoid the sharp edge?"

Many people looked at each other. Dharma King Mujin had seized the initiative, and his offensive was astonishing. Under normal circumstances, one would usually choose to dodge, avoid the sharp edge, and then break it with force. But why was this person like a wooden dummy now?

Under countless astonished gazes, the terrifying fist light finally roared over. However, just as it was about to strike King Xu's chest, King Xu finally made his move.

He extended his palm, and a vast force surged from his five fingers.

Bang!

The moment they clashed, an earth-shattering roar resounded, and a visible shockwave spread out, cracking the entire street with fissures, and the flagstones continuously shattered.

Smoke and dust filled the air, gradually dissipating.

Those gazes shot over, and then their expressions subtly changed, as they saw the two in the middle of the street, their fists locked in a collision.

The flagstones around King Xu were pulverized, but the one beneath his feet remained intact; in fact, his body hadn't moved an inch!

The White-browed Eunuch's eyes narrowed, clearly not expecting King Xu to so easily block Dharma King Mujin's fierce punch.

Amidst the clamor, Dharma King Mujin's expression also changed, a terrifying force instantly spread through him, and the blood in his body circulated rapidly.

A vast and incomparably domineering force surged from the punch.

His punch felt as if it hadn't landed on that person's fist, but rather struck a towering mountain.

“Thump!”

A violent wave of Qi suddenly erupted the next moment, and Dharma King Mujin's face changed drastically, then he retreated several steps backward, directly withdrawing dozens of steps before falling to his knees with a thud, spitting out mouthfuls of fresh blood onto the ground.

Silence!

The entire world fell silent.

Only the tottering Dharma King Mujin continued to cough up blood.

King Xu scratched his head, turned around, and said somewhat apologetically, “I didn’t kill him with one punch. My apologies.”

Everyone looked at King Xu in horror, as if they had seen a ghost. It turned out that what they thought he was joking about, he had actually said seriously.

He really wanted to kill Dharma King Mujin with one punch.

That was a Grandmaster at the Peak of Two-Qi, and a Body Refining Grandmaster at the Peak of Two-Qi at that.

“Who exactly is he?”

Ling Yuanjing asked with a trembling voice.

To severely injure a Two-Qi Grandmaster with one punch, this strength was no less than Sect Leader Xiao Qianqiu. Ghost Swordsman actually had such a Master by his side.

What was his identity, what was his background?

Not only Ling Yuanjing, but Jia Shiwu and Zuo Biwen also showed looks of shock, their hearts churning with turbulent waves that did not subside for a long time.

This fair-skinned man was simply too strong.

“Where did this Master come from?”

The White-browed Eunuch's expression became even more solemn. He felt that unadorned punch more keenly than anyone else, and thus understood its power even more clearly.

“Too strong.”

Qiu Lun gasped, looking at Dharma King Mujin who was still coughing blood.

He never imagined that his 'Big Brother' had such a Master by his side, no wonder he wasn't afraid of the White-browed Eunuch.

From today onwards, the Great Yan Jianghu would likely have another top Master.

An Jing watched King Xu and Dharma King Mujin's exchange, and in that instant, he seemed to have an Epiphany, as if enlightened, especially King Xu's ordinary punch, which seemed to contain some profound and abstruse principle.

Both internal and external Cultivation, body and mind as one.

These were the basic conditions required to advance to Grandmaster. Now, watching two Grandmaster experts battle, he instantly took this step.

“Let’s go.”

About dozens of breaths later, An Jing came back to his senses, then glanced at Dharma King Mujin kneeling on the ground and said indifferently.

“Alright.”

King Xu nodded and left, following behind An Jing.

In the world, all eyes converged on An Jing and King Xu, and it wasn't until much later that a buzz of discussion erupted.

“Who exactly was that person? He actually severely injured Dharma King Mujin with one punch.”

“Too terrifying. He looks like Ghost Swordsman’s Dao protector.”

“What is Ghost Swordsman’s true identity?”

“These Later Jin people really like to humiliate themselves.”

Everyone was discussing animatedly, their eyes filled with inexplicable shock.

The scene just now was simply too unbelievable.

“This Ghost Swordsman is not to be provoked.”

Yue Tingchen muttered to himself, then scanned his surroundings and found that Bai Jing had already left in a hurry.

Dongluo Desert, beneath the Demon Sealing Well.

Zhao Qingmei tilted her head back, revealing her fair neck, her beautiful eyes gazing at the well opening above.

Ever since the wooden Puppet climbed up the day before yesterday, it had not come down again.

Zhao Qingmei knew Yu Qiurong's character; such a situation would not occur without reason. There must have been some changes in the Demonic Sect. Remembering Yuan Feng's previous visit to the Eastern Garrison, she seemed to understand what had happened.

“Demon Sealing Platform?”

Zhao Qingmei murmured to herself, her heart growing colder, and her steps involuntarily led her towards the stone cave.

Nan Weiping saw that Zhao Qingmei's hands were empty and couldn't help but say, “What? No food again today?”

Zhao Qingmei said indifferently, “It seems there have been changes in the Demonic Sect.”

Nan Weiping smiled and said, “As the saying goes, ‘hearts are separated by bellies.’ No one can truly see into another’s heart. Things are unpredictable; not everyone is as you imagine, they might only be presenting a facade. Only by experiencing these things can you truly see through people’s hearts.”

“Now, in their eyes, your escape is hopeless, so some changes are normal.”

These fickle and unpredictable human hearts, she had seen too many of them, to the point of being accustomed to it.

Zhao Qingmei shook her head, her eyes always carrying a hint of coolness, “I firmly believe that some people will not change.”

“Yes, some people don't change, but how can you be sure they are those unchanging people?”

Nan Weiping waved her hand and said, “If there’s no food, with your strength, you probably can’t last half a month. What do you plan to do?”

With her Great Grandmaster Cultivation, her body, known as a half-immortal, still needed Heaven and Earth Spiritual Essence to survive without food. How could Zhao Qingmei, a One Qi Grandmaster, survive in this situation without water or food?

“I still have some here.”

Zhao Qingmei took out a black bundle from outside the stone cave, then slowly opened it. Inside were some dry rations and water bags.

Nan Weiping looked at this, somewhat surprised, “You were prepared early?”

Zhao Qingmei nodded slightly and said, “Plan ahead and prepare for the unexpected; think long-term in times of peace. Once in a desperate situation is enough.”

As early as when she could contact Yu Qiurong, she had asked Yu Qiurong to prepare dry rations and water, to prevent any special circumstances.

Especially when Yuan Feng went to the Eastern Garrison, it gave Zhao Qingmei a bad premonition.

And now, her guess was not wrong.

“Interesting.”

Nan Weiping looked at the beautiful woman in front of her and couldn't help but give a thumbs up, “How much longer until you reach the eighth level of the Nine Nether Purgatory Demonic Codex?”

Zhao Qingmei took a deep breath, “About half a month. Reaching the eighth level will be enough.”

These past few months had been extremely long for her; she felt as if every moment was spent in torment, and now, this torment only had half a month left.

But Zhao Qingmei was immensely grateful for these months, as they had made her heart even more resilient.

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger.

Nan Weiping asked curiously, “What’s the first thing you’ll do after you get out? Kill the usurper?”

Zhao Qingmei said very calmly, “Exactly. I will personally kill anyone in the Demonic Sect who dares to usurp.”

“Hahahahaha.”

Nan Weiping heard this and laughed, “I certainly don’t want to go around killing. I just want to watch the sunrise. There’s no end to the people in this world.”

Zhao Qingmei said indifferently, “I am different from Senior. Some people don’t want me to see the sunrise.”

Nan Weiping heard this, sighed slightly, and said no more.

Such was the Jianghu.

Zhao Qingmei picked up the dry rations and water, walked out of the stone cave, then slowly sat down cross-legged, and couldn't help but take out the paper doll from her embrace.

Fortunately, longing is silent; regrettably, longing is silent.

Zhao Qingmei gently stroked the paper doll, a soft light in her eyes.

All paths were chosen by herself. She had followed Jiang Shang to the Demonic Sect, and then returned to Yu Prefecture City by herself.

She made her choices, and she naturally had to bear the trials and tribulations along the way.

“Once I get out, everything will be fine.”

Zhao Qingmei took a deep breath, placed the paper doll over her heart, and then silently recited the Nine Nether Purgatory Demonic Codex.

As the Nine Nether Purgatory Demonic Codex began to operate, black Qi swirled around her, forming spiraling vortices that enveloped her entire body.

Yujing City, Feihua Alley.

A cool wind constantly swept through the alley.

An Jing felt the breeze on his face, and his entire being settled down completely.

King Xu held four or five steamed buns in one hand, stuffing them into his mouth while mumbling, “Jing An, these things are quite delicious, how did you get them?”

An Jing smiled and said, “I bought them with silver.”

King Xu asked curiously, “Can I borrow some?”

“Don’t borrow. It’s a small business, and it’s not easy for others either.”

An Jing chuckled and said, “Take all these with you, I won’t eat them.”

“Then thank you very much.”

King Xu devoured a bun in two bites, saying, “I have to go back soon, because I can’t leave Xu Wang Mountain for long, especially since I feel the tremors from underground becoming more severe recently. Perhaps next time I won’t be able to come out to find you.”

At this, King Xu’s expression became somewhat solemn.

“Is that so? That’s truly a pity.”

An Jing also felt a bit disappointed upon hearing this. He had originally planned to ask King Xu to accompany him to Beili Volcano to search for the volcano spirit, but now it seemed unlikely.

King Xu looked at An Jing seriously and said, “If you want to find me, you can come anytime.”

“Okay, I understand.”

An Jing also nodded heavily.

King Xu took a deep breath and said, “Then I’ll be going now.”

An Jing said, “Go.”

King Xu’s body leaped, directly employing the Shrinking the Ground into an Inch technique, and instantly disappeared into Feihua Alley.

“Life is unpredictable, and who knows when we will meet again.”

An Jing watched the figure disappear, then turned and walked out of the alley.

“amitābha!”

Suddenly, an old voice rang out.

An Jing followed the voice and saw an old monk with kind eyes and benevolent brows appear in front of him, currently with his hands pressed together, looking at him.

An Jing raised an eyebrow and said, “Great Master Puhui, it seems we truly have fate.”

This old monk was precisely Bodhisattva Puhui of Buddhism.

Bodhisattva Puhui whispered, “Today, this humble monk specifically came to seek Benefactor.”