“There seem to be some people pursuing you. I’ll wait until they’re gone, before I send you out,” said Emperor Tian Yuan.

“Many thanks to Senior Tian Yuan!” Nie Li said respectfully. While they waited, Nie Li continued chatting with Emperor Tian Yuan about the Sage Emperor.

Emperor Tian Yuan was now certain that Nie Li really was someone from a hundred years in the future and also possessed the potential of defeating the Sage Emperor. How many years had it been since he was waiting for revenge?

“Aside from these treasures, I have another supreme treasure for you!”

After Emperor Tian Yuan finished his words, a disk appeared in the sky, dancing in the breeze until it landed in Nie Li’s hand.

“Myriad Spiritual Sword Array!” Nie Li exclaimed.

“Yes. This is the Myriad Spiritual Sword Array!” Emperor Tian Yuan confirmed with a nod.

Back in Nie Li’s previous life, the many experts who’d hidden themselves in various realms as well as supreme treasures had shown up to Nie Li’s aid at the battle against the Sage Emperor. The Myriad Spiritual Sword Array was one of those treasures. Even though it was only a single treasure, it’d killed five of the Sage Emperor’s Deity servants.

“A trace of my intent still remains inside this item and thus controls it. At your level, it’d be impossible for you to do so by yourself. If you run into any troubles that you can’t resolve alone, you can use my intent to contact me, and I can activate the Myriad Spiritual Sword Array for you. However, you must understand that this treasure requires the essences of heaven and earth to bring out its full potential; do not use it rashly. Save it for the Sage Emperor!” said Emperor Tian Yuan solemnly.

“Rest assured, I understand this item, Senior Tian Yuan!” Nie Li cupped his hands and placed the Myriad Spiritual Sword Array into the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting.

In order to activate, the Myriad Spiritual Sword Array needed to absorb a good amount of Heavenly Energy. The inside of the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting was perfect for that, since the Heavenly Energy there was always infinite and rich!

Nie Li had witnessed the might of the Myriad Spiritual Sword Array, once upon a time. This item needed to absorb an enormous amount of Heavenly Energy for only one activation.

After storing the Myriad Spiritual Sword Array, Nie Li suddenly remembered something. He turned towards Emperor Tian Yuan and asked, “I wish to enquire on one matter.”

“What is it?”

“I wonder if Senior Tian Yuan knows of a person who calls himself Emperor Kong Ming from the Tiny World?”

Emperor Tian Yuan went silent for some time. A while later, he spoke. “This Emperor Kong Ming that you speak of might be that person. A formidable talent suddenly appeared roughly a few hundred years ago. I don’t know of his origins; he might even be the reincarnation of some supreme expert. His divine intent once interacted with mine. This man had achieved a cultivation that attracted the attention of the Sage Emperor and was being hunted by several of his Deity servants. He engaged in battle with those Deities for several days, but ultimately disappeared and was nowhere to be found.

Nie Li had always been confused and perplexed about this entity known as Emperor Kong Ming. Aside from the chant, there was also his way of nurturing disciples like nurturing venomous insects1. Because of that, Nie Li was always worried that an enemy might appear at any time.

“That person’s talent was transcendent, to obtain such astonishing cultivation in just a short two or three hundred years. If he indeed was the reincarnation of some expert, his strength should be above mine. I originally hoped that he’d be able to break through the Sage Emperor’s seal on time and space, but it was a pity. In these endlessly long years, across all of time and space, there aren’t many who are lucky enough receive the chance to mature and confront the Sage Emperor!” Emperor Tian Yuan sighed.

Growing strong enough to challenge the Sage Emperor in just two to three hundred years.

Nie Li furrowed his brows for a brief moment. If Emperor Kong Ming was one, then Nie Li would be the second in that former life.

Both Nie Li and Emperor Kong Ming were from the Tiny World. Nie Li had a vague feeling that there was something linking himself and Emperor Kong Ming.

For a long time now, Nie Li had held a vague sense of a connection to this Emperor Kong Ming.

That’s why Nie Li had been trying to track down Emperor Kong Ming. Now that he’d gained this information from Emperor Tian Yuan, Nie Li was even more certain of his thoughts.

Emperor Tian Yuan seemed to have also realised something, as asked on the spot, “Are you from the Tiny World as well?”

“Yes.” Nie Li nodded after a brief hesitation.

Emperor Tian Yuan blanked for a brief moment, then laughed, “I understand now. There were some things that I couldn’t understand before, but now, I understand all of it! Hahaha!”

Emperor Tian Yuan’s laughs echoed throughout the entire space.

His voice boomed like a large bell. Long Yuyin couldn’t help covering her ears. Her pretty face also couldn’t help paling a little.

Emperor Tian Yuan had said that he understood. But just was what is that he understood?

“Senior Tian Yuan, what did you understand?” Nie Li couldn’t help asking.

“You must uncover the answer to this riddle yourself. In the Dao of Heaven and Earth, everything is destined. One day, you’ll understand.” Emperor Tian Yuan laughed. “If there’s anyone or anything between heaven and earth that can fight against the Sage Emperor, then it is you. All of our fates are in your hands!”

Emperor Tian Yuan had understood something, but was unwilling to speak. This only layered more doubt on Nie Li’s heart.

What was the mystery?

“I can only tell you one thing. Everything that you’ve cultivated and inherited are above mine.”

Emperor Tian Yuan continued, “Therefore, you must tap into your own potential. Explode forth your potential. As of now, your cultivation speed is still much too slow to confront the Sage Emperor. You don’t have enough time!”

“I’ll definitely do all that I can!” Nie Li replied in a serious tone.

“There’s nothing more I can help you with!” Emperor Tian Yuan’s intent then landed on Long Yuyin, who was beside Nie Li. “This girl, here, is deeply attached to you. In this world, there aren’t many like her who would be willing to die for you. You must cherish this properly. However, her talents are still too inferior; if this goes on, she will not be able to aid you. Let me grant her a different destiny!”

A moment later, the boundless intent in the space began raging like a violent storm.

Long Yuyin was in a daze, but she could feel a powerful energy pouring into her shenmen 2 through the top of her head. The energy charged into her body, filling her with a powerful vigour.

She felt as though her entire body was about to explode. Her beautiful face contorted in an expression of deep pain.

However, she clenched her teeth and held on. She understood Emperor Tian Yuan’s intention. If she wanted to help Nie Li one day, she’d have to accept this baptism from Emperor Tian Yuan!

*Boom!* *Boom!* *Boom!*

Long Yuyin felt the energy surge through her body and explode, as if it wanted to tear her apart. The force was so powerful that no physical body could ever fully endure it; even her artifact armour began showing cracks.

*Boom!*

The armour exploded!

Since the artifact armour couldn’t even endure it, of course her clothes had long been turned into ashes!

* * *



Commonly in Xianxia, the most venomous insects are created by placing them together in a jar and forcing them to eat each other. The strongest one survives and becomes even stronger and more venomous.



An acupuncture point.





Chapter 431: Leaving


Nie Li never expected this to happen. His eyes widened.

Long Yuyin was like a goddess who’d descended from the Ninth Heaven1. Not a single thread had been left on her body. Her fully and perfect curves radiated such an appeal that it was nearly impossible to look away.

Formidable energy poured into Long Yuyin’s body through her shenmen on her head.

Long Yuyin clenched her teeth and endured the intense pain. She tried her best to open her eyes, only to see such a situation and Nie Li’s gaze. She instantly flushed red. “You…! Stop looking!”

Nie Li smiled and shifted his line of sight. After all, Nie Li had lived two lives. Even though he’d seen all of Long Yuyin, he still remained calm and collected.

It was a while before Long Yuyin’s consciousness cleared enough for her to be astonished at the strength she’d gained.

Her cultivation had gone from the Heavenly Axis Realm straight to the Dao of Dragon Realm. On top of that, she was at least at the sixth stage. The energy still coursed through her body, yet to be absorbed. After things settled down, her cultivation might rise by another several levels. In fact, it might even be possible for her to step into the Martial Ancestor Realm!

However, Emperor Tian Yuan had bestowed her something else, aside from her rise in cultivation. Lines of a profound chant floated through her mind. It must be the cultivation technique that Emperor Tian Yuan himself had practised!

Long Yuyin immediately put on a fresh set of clothes, all the while looking embarrassed to death.

“I have completely changed your fate to the Divine Pulse. From now on, your cultivation will leap soars and bounds!” Emperor Tian Yuan laughed and spoke again. “I’ve never taken in a disciple before; I suppose we can consider you my first!”

Experts like Emperor Tian Yuan have long seen through the foolishness of worldly affairs; of course he wouldn’t mind. Besides, he was only the trace of an intent.



Long Yuyin glanced at Nie Li with a red face. Earlier, Nie Li had seen everything. No matter what, she had to hold Nie Li responsible for this matter!



Nie Li turned around and saw Long Yuyin’s bashful expression. Those scenes from earlier couldn’t help replaying themselves in his head. He had to admit that Long Yuyin had quite a sexy figure. Given a few more years, she’d be on par with her mother.

Right now, Long Yuyin wore a set of pale pink clothing. Her shy manner was timid and charming.

Nie Li thought his eyesight must be going bad. Was this really the same tyrannosaurus Long Yuyin?

“Ahem.” Nie Li gave a dry cough, then he cupped his hands towards the empty air. “Many thanks to Senior Tian Yuan!”

“Thank you, Master!” Long Yuyin gratefully echoed. After all, Emperor Tian Yuan had helped her raise her cultivation to such heights.

Emperor Tian Yuan laughed, “I have done what I can do. From this day onwards, you two must depend on yourselves!”

If the Sage Emperor resurrected, the entirety of time and space would be refined. If that came to pass, then regardless of whether it was the Human Clan or the Demon Clan, everyone would be turned into ashes. Utter annihilation. Therefore, defeating the Sage Emperor was a must.

“Those people have already left, so I’ll send you out now. My Myriad Spiritual Sword Array is a supreme treasure passed down through generations of the Sky Origin Divine Clan. Being in its presence is the same as being in the presence of my own person. If those Sky Origin Divine Clan brats refuse to obey you, all you have to do is bring out this Myriad Spiritual Sword Array!” Emperor Tian Yuan laughed. And with that, a surge of energy swept Nie Li and Long Yuyin back into physical reality.

Emperor Tian Yuan’s voice resounded from far away, “Brat, I’ll wait for the day you defeat the Sage Emperor. You must not let me down!”



Then, Emperor Tian Yuan’s voice vanished without a trace.

When Nie Li and Long Yuyin opened their eyes, they were already outside.

Long Yuyin suddenly recalled the two elders who’d sacrificed their lives for her, and grief filled her face once again.

Nie Li saw her expression, then said to her, “Where are those elders of yours? Take me there. I might be able to revive them. I can store the remnants of their souls inside my Soul Mirror. When my cultivation breaks through the Martial Ancestor Realm and reaches the Deity Realm, I might be able to revive them!”



“Really?” Long Yuyin’s eyes widened. Before today, she would’ve never believed in the existence of a “Deity Realm”. However, after her encounter with Emperor Tian Yuan, she was totally willing to believe it.

A Martial Ancestor Realm already possessed ability of great caliber. As for a Deity Realm… what kind of unimaginable power would lie in that realm?

Long Yuyin led Nie Li around, until they found the bodies of the two elders. Nie Li brought out his Soul Mirror and stored the remaining pieces of their souls inside.

Nie Li looked at the Soul Mirror inside. Aside from the two remnant souls that he’d just added, there was also the remains of Ye Zong’s soul. Nie Li wondered whether he’d be able to revive him.

Nie Li clenched his fist. He still wasn’t strong enough!

“Thank you, Nie Li!” Long Yuyin cried when she saw the two remnant souls enter the Soul Mirror. Her vision grew hazy and she threw herself into Nie Li’s chest.

A surge of feminine fragrance wafted up from his chest. Nie Li was dazed for a brief moment. Then he laughed and patted Long Yuyin on the shoulder.

After a long while, Nie Li bitterly smiled and asked, “Are you done? I’m being squeezed to the point that I can’t breathe!”

When Long Yuyin heard that, she immediately flushed red and released Nie Li. She stomped her foot and flew away.

“Hey Miss! I won’t be able to follow you if you run so fast. Don’t you know that your current cultivation is much higher than mine?” Nie Li shouted as he took his time to fly.



Long Yuyin slightly slowed her steps.

The two rays of light flashed through the sky and disappeared into the horizon.

Skysoul Institute

The news of Nie Li and Long Yuyin’s return soon spread throughout the Skysoul Institute. Not only were the Demon, Heavenly Path, and Profound Note Leagues aware of it, even Long Tianming’s camp knew. An even larger storm was brewing.



At a valley in the Skysoul Institute

Ying Yueru’s pretty face was hidden under a cloak. She sat in an array, incessantly pinching and rubbing her fingers. Her eyes were fixed on a spot right in front of her. Finally, she sighed and said, “It’s about time, isn’t it? Shall I go and meet him?

“Forget it! It’d be better not to!”



After all, those were events that’d happened in the previous lifetime.

Ying Yueru still couldn’t accept the fact that a stranger had suddenly stepped into her world and became her disciple.

However, everything that’d happened in that previous life was real.

“You will soon step into the Heavenly Axis Realm and the Sage Emperor will come. If I don’t leave, then the entire Divine Feathers Sect won’t be able to escape this misfortune!” Ying Yueru fixed her gaze before her, “Ye Ziyun, Xiao Ning’er, Du Ze, and Lu Piao…since I’m well aware of your fates, why don’t I give you some advice. Considered it my last favor to you!”



Wish a *Woosh!*, Ying Yueru turned into a strand of smoke and disappeared.

Like nothing had ever happened.

Ying Yueru had always lived by herself. If no one came to visit, then it’d be a while before anyone noticed that she was gone.

* * *



In Chinese mythology, there are nine layers to heaven (yes, that’s heaven, not hell, unlike Dante’s Inferno). The Ninth Heaven is considered the most sacred land, where the Jade Emperor (the king of gods) resides.





Chapter 432: Frightening Medicinal Effects


For several days in a row, Nie Li, Lu Piao, Gu Bei, and Li Xingyun beat their gongs and drums as they put things in order. Long Tianming and his crew continued to pressure them, chasing after the Demon, Heavenly Path, and Profound Note Leagues. As for Nie Li and them, how could they idly sit by without retaliating?

In a room, in a certain courtyard

Long Yuyin, Gu Bei, Li Xingyun and the rest were all gathered.

“Nie Li, what are you doing?” Lu Piao couldn’t help asking in confusion.

These past few days, Nie Li had been gathering massive quantities of herbs, as well as an enormous cauldron. He seemed to be preparing to refine something.

Nie Li showed a mysterious smile and said, “I’m getty ready to refine an elixir. Later, I’ll show you its effects!”

“Elixir? What kind of elixir?” Curiosity was written all over everyone’s faces.



Long Yuyin also blinked in curiosity. After learning of Nie Li’s true identity just a short time ago, she’d been in deep confusion. She spent a long time mulling over the facts, before she finally reached a conclusion that put her at ease. It didn’t matter if Nie Li was someone from a hundred years in the future; that was Nie Li’s past. She loved Nie Li for who he was right now, and that was enough for her!

Nie Li brought out a Divine Phaseless Fruit and a Frost Steel Divine Needle, used the needle to scrape off a tiny piece of the fruit, and placed the scrap into a bottle.

“This bottle contains Rootless Water. You should first mix the contents of the bottle, then divide it among a hundred bottles. Mix them again, and split each bottle into a hundred more!” Nie Li explained as he tidied up the other herbs.

Li Xingyun and the rest roughly understood Nie Li’s intentions. Nie Li wanted them to dilute the essence of that tiny piece of fruit into ten thousand bottles!

Lu Piao couldn’t help crying out in confusion. “What kind of spiritual fruit is this? Even a magic elixir or formidable medicine would lose its effects after being diluted ten thousand times!”

“Yeah! That’s diluting it ten thousand times!” Gu Bei also couldn’t help speaking up as well.

However, Nie Li only smiled. “You’ve never seen a Divine Phaseless Fruit before, so you don’t know how to use it. That’s why you’d say such things!”

“Divine Phaseless Fruit? I’ve never heard of it before!” Li Xingyun blanked. “What kind of magic elixir or formidable medicine is that? Will it still be effective after being diluted ten thousand times?”

“The words ‘magic elixir’ and ‘formidable medicine’ aren’t nearly enough to describe the Divine Phaseless Fruit. There’s a reason I used a Frost Steel Divine Needle to scrape off a tiny bit of it. If a Martial Ancestor Realm expert consumed this fruit, their body would immediately rupture and they’d die from the powerful medicinal effects of this fruit!” Nie Li laughed.

Everyone’s expressions changed. “It’s that powerful? You’re not exaggerating, right?”

Even Martial Ancestor Realm… just what kind of powerful existence was that? Having your body rupture just from eating a little bit… that was simply too unbelievable!

“Have I lied to you before?” Nie Li asked with a smile. This Divine Phaseless Fruit was from Emperor Tian Yuan’s collection. Its medicinal effects would be unimaginable, even to a Martial Ancestor Realm expert! “Even if we dilute it ten thousand times, its medicinal effect will still be too strong for our bodies. A drop of that would still rupture our bodies!”

“Then what are you going to do?” Li Xingyun couldn’t help asking, with inevitable shock in his heart.

“I’m preparing over ten different methods to further weaken its potency after diluting it ten thousand times. After that, I’ll refine it into an elixir!” Nie Li explained. “The medicinal effects of the fully refined elixir will definitely be astounding!”

“I wonder if that elixir can help us reach the pinnacle of the Heavenly Axis Realm!”

“Forget the pinnacle Heavenly Axis Realm, you could even reach the Dao of Dragon Realm without problems!” Nie Li confidently replied.

The Dao of Dragon Realm?



Everyone widened their eyes. Breaking through into Dao of Dragon Realm? How could anyone say that so easily?

Long Yuyin thought for a bit, then said, “In that case, it should be able to help me break through to the pinnacle of the Dao of Dragon Realm. Our Dragonseal Family is going to select its successor soon. If I can reach the pinnacle of the Dao of Dragon Realm, I’ll have absolute confidence in my position. When that happens, even the Patriarch, himself, won’t be able to keep me away!”

Long Yuyin had been gone from the Skysoul Institute for a while. Upon her return, she’d shocked Li Xingyun and the rest with her cultivation. It was far above anything they themselves could compare to! They had no idea how Long Yuyin could’ve done it!

Nie Li thought for a moment, then replied, “One might not be enough, but two definitely will! This elixir will also cause huge changes to your physiques! However, each elixir requires at least three days to be fully absorbed!”

Li Xingyun, Gu Bei, and Lu Piao stared at Nie Li.



Its medicinal powers were that strong?

Compared to the possibility of reaching the Dao of Dragon Realm, what was three days anyways?

Most people needed several years, or perhaps even decades to go from the Heavenly Axis to the Dao of Dragon Realm!

This elixir was a little too heaven-defying, right?

As far as Nie Li was concerned, this was absolutely normal. To existences like Emperor Tian Yuan, any Dao of Dragon Realm would be nothing more than an ant. What’s wrong with breaking through it in only three days?

Usually, Divine Phaseless Fruits were things that only Deity Realm experts could get their hands on!

The entire worth of the Divine Feathers Sect couldn’t compare to the price of a single Divine Phaseless Fruit!

Even an ordinary Martial Ancestor Realm wouldn’t know how to properly use a Divine Phaseless Fruit; however, Nie Li knew it all!

Over the next few days, Nie Li began refining elixirs like mad. With a detailed manufacturing procedure, the process itself wasn’t anything difficult.



Roughly ten days later, Nie Li had refined over five hundred elixirs.

Nie Li couldn’t help showing a gratified smile as he beheld those clear, sparkling and jade-like elixirs. Armed with these elixirs, he was like a tiger that’d grown wings1. But all of the credit had to go to Senior Tian Yuan. If it hadn’t been for his gift of the Divine Phaseless Fruits, there would’ve been nothing that Nie Li could do, even while knowing the refinery method. Even the cleverest housewife can’t cook without rice!

Nie Li summoned his army of several hundred Sky Origin Divine Clan members from his painting, then sent them out to deliver the elixirs to Ye Ziyun, Ning’er, Du Ze and the rest. These elixirs would definitely let their cultivations soar by leaps and bounds.

Lu Piao picked up one of the elixirs and examined it. “Is this the divine elixir that you were talking about?”

They all knew that Nie Li had been busy refining the powerful elixir, and couldn’t contain their excitement; once in a while, someone would drop by and take a look at how things were going. When they learned that the divine elixirs had finally been completed, they were all impatient to give it a try.

“Go ahead!” Nie Li said with a smile.

Lu Piao looked at the elixir and felt deep inside that Nie Li wasn’t lying. Back when they were still in Glory City, Nie Li had provided them with extremely powerful cultivation techniques. Of course he’d firmly believe in Nie Li, without a single doubt!



Lu Piao opened his mouth and swallowed that elixir. A burning sensation surged through his dantian, engulfing him until there was nothing left. He immediately sat down and crossed his legs.

What great medicinal effects!

* * *

Chinese idiom. Nie Li was powerful before, but now he’s unstoppable.





Chapter 433: Acting Sect Master?


It was a total transformation!

The frighteningly potent medicinal effects rushed into his soul realm, as if trying to burst it. None of the elixirs he’d ever taken before could compare to the effects of this one!

Lu Piao turned pale from shock. If the medicinal effects swelled and burst his soul realm, he’d be a goner!

What’s the point in trying to raise your cultivation if you’re already dead?

However, the medicine simultaneously nourished Lu Piao’s soul realm, restoring it.

In addition to its potent medicinal effects, this elixir could actually nourish the soul realm!

Lu Piao was amazed. He could feel his cultivation rise through the Heavenly Axis Realm. 1-stage, 2-stage… at last, it stopped at the 5-stage Heavenly Axis Realm.

Great heavens! What kind of heaven-defying elixir was this!

The effects were simply too astonishing!

Just one elixir had raised his cultivation by so much. If he took a couple more, wouldn’t he become even more powerful?

Li Xingyun, Gu Bei and the rest stood to the side, staring at Nie Li in shock. They swallowed to try and regain their composure. This was simply too terrifying.

They obviously sensed Lu Piao’s sudden rise in cultivation. How long did that take? And it was all due to one tiny elixir!



Nie Li showed a faint smile. He’d already expected Lu Piao’s sudden rise in cultivation. After all, that elixir had been crafted from a Divine Phaseless Fruit left behind from an Emperor-level expert’s private collection! For cultivators of their level, it was beyond supreme immortal medicine!

“Nie Li, quick, give me one!” Li Xingyun impatiently demanded.

There probably wasn’t a single person in the Divine Feathers Sect who wouldn’t be impatient after seeing Lu Piao’s sudden rise in cultivation!

Nie Li distributed all the refined elixirs that he had on hand. Then, he entered the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting and distributed the rest to his Sky Origin Divine Clan experts.

After everyone received their share of the elixirs, they began cultivating with full concentration.

For the next month or so, the people of the Demon, Heavenly Path, and Profound Note Leagues all stayed inside the Skysoul Institute. Regardless of how badly Gu Heng’s subordinates mocked them, not a single expert left the grounds. It seemed as if the core members of these leagues had all gone missing.

The absence of the core members was an extremely demoralising blow to the exterior members of the leagues. Many of them simply chose to leave and join Gu Heng’s camp instead.

A certain courtyard in the Skysoul Institute

“He Yuan, this doesn’t seem right. We shouldn’t be doing this, should we?” someone weakly protested. He was a slender twenty-six or twenty-seven year-old man who wore white silk clothes.

That person called He Yuan was a man with many scars. He coldly laughed, “Doesn’t seem right? Why did we join the Demon League in the first place? Wasn’t it because we saw potential in the Demon League, and the fact that they offered such generous conditions? But look at it now. Who knows where the core members have gone? They’ve probably holed themselves up like turtles. What’s the point in staying there?”

“It’s fine that we’re leaving, but to take over two hundred brothers with us…”

“Haha, a man seeks his way up just as water seeks its way down. Look at the situation. The Demon League won’t be able to hold on much longer. Besides, Gu Heng has given us rather decent terms. By taking these brothers with us, we’ll be able to negotiate the terms. If it was just the two of us, do you really think Gu Heng would bother?” He Yuan sneered.

Ever since the core members of the Demon League had disappeared, the hearts of the exterior members had been riled. He Yuan only needed to do a little bit of convincing before two hundred of them were willing to leave with him.

Of course Gu Heng would be willing to accept traitors of the Demon League. Furthermore, he was providing them with ample conditions.

The slim youth thought about it and ground his teeth. “Fine. We’ll leave, since the Demon League no longer has any prospects!”

Aside from the few hundred who’d become Gu Heng’s subordinates, there were thousands of others who’d also decided to leave.

In reality, Nie Li had always been paying close attention to the state of the Demon League. He’d already given elixirs to the fully trustworthy core members. However, he was still in the process of observing the exterior members. To those who’d decided to turn to Gu Heng, or to leave entirely, Nie Li had done nothing. He simply allowed them to leave.

Even though there were many who’d left, there were still many who’d stayed.

After such a commotion, most of the remaining members should be worth nurturing!

Nie Li had secretly been reorganizing things, starting by cleaning out the spies in his Demon League. As for those who he finally deemed trustworthy, he brought them in and secretly nurtured them.

The Skysoul Institute was in a lull of tranquility. Gu Heng was pleased with the idea that the Demon, Heavenly Path, and Profound Note Leagues had seemingly given in. He began recruiting in large numbers and also announced that he’d reclaim his position as the first-in-line successor from Gu Bei. As for the Ashen Flames Family’s Li Yufeng, he also announced that he’d soon become the Acting Patriarch for the Ashen Flames Family.

As for Long Tianming, even though he didn’t show any movements, rumors had it that he was working towards becoming the Acting Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect.

The older generations hid themselves behind the scenes and focused on cultivating and strengthening the Divine Feathers Sect’s foundation. They couldn’t care less about such trifling matters that were going on. Such things were better left to the younger generations.

All the while, Nie Li continued to enhance his cultivation and observe the changes within the Divine Feathers Sect. Regardless of how turbulent the situation might be, everything would be fine as long the Demon League grew stronger. Aside from cultivating every day, Nie Li also occasionally paid visits to the Skycloud Hall to share his thoughts with Hierarch Skycloud. The latter had already developed an extreme trust in Nie Li.

Divine Feathers Sect, Skycloud Hall



“Nie Li, you said that you want to fight for the Acting Sect Master’s position?”’ Hierarch Skycloud asked with a look of blank.

“Yes!” Nie Li said resolutely. “Right now, the Demon God’s Sect is pressuring hard on us. If Long Tianming takes control, I fear that the Divine Feathers Sect will spiral into an ever greater crisis. That’s why I wish to stand out and fight to become the Acting Sect Master!”

“But you simply do not have much of a chance at success! Your foundation inside the Divine Feathers Sect is too shallow. So many of the Divine Feathers Sect disciples don’t even know who you are. How do you plan to fight to become the Acting Sect Master? True, you are my disciple and you have my support; however, within the vast boundaries of the Divine Feathers Sect, my support will not be enough!” Hierarch Skycloud explained with a smile and the shake of a head. Nie Li was indulging in a fantasy. “I know you have great plans in your heart; furthermore, you possess an extraordinary talent. However, the position of Acting Sect Master is still beyond you!”

“If I gain control of the Divine Feathers Sect, then the sect will definitely welcome a new golden age. I only wish to know if Master will firmly support me!” Nie Li requested as he looked at Hierarch Skycloud. Hierarch Skycloud probably still had some doubts in his ability.



Hierarch Skycloud remained silent for a moment, and truthfully was rather surprised. Nie Li appeared so confident.

Could it really be possible…? Hierarch Skycloud quietly sat in his chair. After a brief moment of silence, he spoke. “I’m afraid that even I cannot firmly support you. As for the other Hierarchs, it’ll be even more impossible!”

Nie Li firmly replied, “As long as Master supports me, then I have the confidence.”





Chapter 434: Divine Medicine


“My support won’t be enough, unless you can prove that you truly possess the ability to lead the Divine Feathers Sect to glory!” Hierarch Skycloud said.

“I can prove to Master that I possess the ability. However, I request that Master fully support me in return!” Nie Li replied.

“In terms of character, you’re far better than Long Tianming. However, that Situ Beiyan kid isn’t a bad choice, either.” Hierarch Skycloud pondered. “Situ Beiyan is the child of the current Sect Master. Pity he doesn’t have much ambition…”

Situ Beiyan? The name rang a bell to Nie Li. In his previous life, Situ Beiyan had died mysteriously to some unknown plot. After that, Long Tianming took over. All the signs pointed to Long Tianming. Since Situ Beiyan didn’t win against Long Tianming back then, it probably wouldn’t be a good idea to let him become the Sect Master in this life.

“This is the elixir that I’ve refined for Master. I believe that Master will be able to understand after you consume this elixir… that I can bring the Divine Feathers Sect to a glory that it’s never seen in a thousand years!” Nie Li confidently said as he passed the elixir to Hierarch Skycloud.

Hierarch Skycloud accepted the elixir and scrutinised it. A trace of shock flashed through his eyes.

He could already sense the frightening medicinal effects of the elixir!

Hierarch Skycloud opened his mouth, swallowed the elixir, and felt a surge of boundless medicinal energy pour down his throat. It felt like his body was ignited in flames.

The Hierarch Skycloud was already a Martial Ancestor Realm expert. Ordinary elixirs shouldn’t have even the slightest effect on him, unless it was a divine medicine tens of millions of years old!1 However, such divine medicines aren’t easy to come across.

It’d been at least a few dozen years since Hierarch Skycloud took any elixirs that aided his cultivation.

That’s because the foundation of his cultivation was too powerful!

However, the boundless medicinal effects stored within just the surface of the elixir was already far more powerful than the elixirs that he’d personally cultivated!

For five years, Hierarch Skycloud’s cultivation had remained at the 3-stage Martial Ancestor Realm, never taking a single step forth. But now that he’d taken this elixir, his cultivation began rising like mad, instantly breaking through to the 4-stage Martial Ancestor Realm. Even then, it didn’t stop.

Just what kind of divine medicine was this, to have such frightening medicinal effect!

What decided your position in the Divine Feathers Sect wasn’t your strength or cultivation, but rather your favor with the Big Five. The strongest among the Big Five was a 5-stage Martial Ancestor Realm, while the weakest was a 1-stage Martial Ancestor Realm. These five Martial Ancestor Realm experts were the core strength of the Divine Feathers Sect!

As long as these five Martial Ancestor Realm experts lived, the Divine Feathers Sect would never weaken! However, if anything happened to these Martial Ancestor Realm experts, then the Divine Feathers Sect would abruptly crumble, just like it’d done in the past.

These five Martial Ancestor Realm experts might take several years or maybe even decades to experience even a tiny increase in cultivation. At their level, raising in cultivation was no longer a matter of training and hard work; it was also a matter of opportunity.

Every time a Martial Ancestor Realm expert made a breakthrough, their lifespan increased by several decades.

Hierarch Skycloud had lived for so long that he was no longer as strong as he once was. He felt that given another few decades, he’d reach the end of his lifespan. But now, a single elixir from Nie Li had actually allowed him to break through to the 4-stage Martial Ancestor Realm!

This wasn’t a small matter!

A brief moment later, Hierarch Skycloud abruptly opened his eyes, which glowed with divine light.

“I never expected a single small elixir to possess such frightening medicinal effects!” Hierarch Skycloud couldn’t help sighing as he spoke. “Nie Li, I’ve consumed this elixir of yours, so I will definitely do my best to assist you in this matter.”

“Master is being too serious. Since your disciple acquired some useful things, of course I’d show my filial dues and show them to Master!” Nie Li smiled. He understood Hierarch Skycloud’s character quite well and knew he’d made the right choice in seeking his help.

Hierarch Skycloud went silent for a while. He never expected Nie Li to possess such a bizarre elixir. If Nie Li had five or six of them, then they’d be able to welcome an entirely new glory age for the Divine Feathers Sect! Aside from helping Hierarch Skycloud raise his cultivation, the elixir had also left some reserves inside his soul realm. He’d probably have to seclude himself for a few months in order to fully digest the medicinal effects.

This elixir should be enough to help him reach the 5-stage, or maybe even the 6-stage Martial Ancestor Realm!

Such strange elixirs would definitely be rare. Asking Nie Li to take out five or six might be an impossible task.

Furthermore, as Nie Li’s Master, he’d be embarrassing himself by demanding more elixirs. Hierarch Skycloud would never do something like that!

“I still have some more elixirs with me. Here’s a bottle of thirty. I request that Master help me with a few tasks; please convince the Sect Master and the other members of the Big Five. If I can become the new Sect Master, then I’ll definitely do my best to bring the Divine Feathers Sect into an entirely new age of glory. I believe that right now, Master knows that I’m capable!” Nie Li said as he passed the bottle to Hierarch Skycloud.

Hierarch Skycloud stared at the bottle with a look of disbelief.

This was simply too astonishing!

For such an elixir, the existence of only five or six would be extremely shocking. But Nie Li had brought out a bottle with thirty of them!

Over thirty elixirs, what kind of dream was this?!

Hierarch Skycloud started breathing hard. He’d always been a calm and steady person, but he knew fully what these thirty units of medicine meant. He wasn’t greedy for the elixirs for himself; rather, he understood exactly what these elixirs meant for the fate of the Divine Feathers Sect!

“Nie Li, do you know what these thirty elixirs mean? You’re willing to give them to the Divine Feathers Sect?” Hierarch Skycloud inhaled as he looked at Nie Li.

“Yes.” Nie Li nodded seriously. These thirty elixirs had been specially made for Martial Ancestor Realms like Hierarch Skycloud. From their point of view, such elixirs were extremely precious. But Nie Li still possessed quite a few Divine Phaseless Fruits; he could refine even more of these elixirs!

Hierarch Skycloud nodded his head and continued, “It’s the Divine Feather’s Sect’s great fortune that you’re willing to give them to us! I believe that the Sect Master and the others will gladly hand you the position in return for your contributions!”

Given a few more years, the current Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect will seclude himself and begin cultivating in order to break through to an even higher realm. When that time comes, he’d give up his position as Sect Master to someone else.

The Sect Master only controlled the Divine Feathers Sect. As for the Big Five, they were absolute existences above even the Sect Master!

Nie Li was helping the Big Five increase their strength. To them, handing over the Sect Master’s position was no longer an impossible task. It was definitely a worthy exchange!

* * *



It’s believed that the older an herb or medicine is, the more powerful it becomes. Just like ginseng or fine wine.





Chapter 435: Seat of the Sect Master


These elixirs alone were enough to buy the Sect Master seat!

Nie Li showed a faint smile. He knew that Hierarch Skycloud would make the right call; Nie Li was the only one who could lead the Divine Feathers Sect to true glory!

“It’ll be a while until the Divine Feathers Sect begins selecting candidates for the Acting Sect Master. Go make some preparations. I don’t know how many of them will support you, but based off of these elixirs, I estimate that you’ll have the support of at least three Martial Ancestor Realm experts. However, you won’t be able to depend on those Martial Ancestor Realms alone; you’ll still need to convince the others with your own strength. Otherwise, you’ll never receive the others’ acknowledgement, even if we somehow managed to place you on the Sect Master’s seat. If things turned out like that, your position as Sect Master would be highly unstable!” Hierarch Skycloud warned with a smile.



“Master can rest assured on this matter. I’ve already set my heart on the Sect Master’s position. If I couldn’t manage such a small task, I wouldn’t be contesting for it.” Nie Li replied with a smile.

Hierarch Skycloud nodded at those words. Indeed, Nie Li had a mysterious origin. However, Hierarch Skycloud wasn’t worried that Nie Li might harbor any ill intents towards the Divine Feathers Sect. If that was the case, Nie Li wouldn’t have given up such a powerful divine medicine.

This medicine was definitely enough to push the Divine Feathers Sect to an entirely new height.

Nie Li left the Skycloud Hall and returned to his own residence.

Hierarch Skycloud, however, took the divine medicine that Nie Li had given him and went to seek out the other Marital Ancestor Realm experts.

For the next period of time, Nie Li fully concentrated on his cultivation.

Time flowed by quickly. The day of selection for the Acting Sect Master would soon arrive. Recently, Long Tianming had become much more active. The five Martial Ancestor Realms were all in seclusion; therefore, Long Tianming had to bribe the other elders and grand elders of the Divine Feathers Sect. They would be crucial to helping him ascend the position.

By comparison, Situ Beiyan was much calmer, and didn’t show as deep a commitment to the Acting Sect Master’s position. But he was also moving behind the scenes, of course.

Long Tianming’s residence

“What did you say? Why is Situ Beiyan still alive right now?” Long Tianming’s face was dark.

Several black-clothed people knelt before Long Tianming.

“Report to Young Master, we’re also unsure of the root cause. Every attempt at poisoning has been discovered by someone. We also tried to set up an ambush for Situ Beiyan, but we ended up surrounded by his men, instead!”

Long Tianming knitted his brows. It seemed that someone knew he was trying to kill Situ Beiyan and was secretly taking actions to counter him.

Long Tianming snorted, “Situ Beiyan is the son of the current Sect Master. He still has a vast number of supporters and is a huge threat. However, eighty percent of the elders are now on my side. Ninety percent of the grand elders at the pinnacle of the Dao of Dragon Realm are also behind me. Aside from them, I have at least two or three of the Big Five. Since the Sect Master is preparing for retirement, he won’t openly side with Situ Beiyan. I refuse to believe that Situ Beiyan can still win against me! Let him live, then!”



No matter what, he had to take full control of the Divine Feathers Sect!

“You’re all dismissed!” Long Tianming ordered.

“Yes!” The group of black-clothed people quickly retreated.

After those black-clothed people removed themselves, Long Tianming sat down on his chair and began fiddling with a black medal engraved with a sinister demon beast.

The corner of his mouth raised into a cold smile. “Situ Beiyan, I refuse to believe that you can win against me. Me who has the help of the Demon God’s Sect!” As far as Long Tianming knew, the forces of the Demon God’s Sect had long infiltrated the Divine Feathers Sect, and had taken control of a vast amount of power. Enough to affect the results of the Sect Master’s candidate!

Long Tianming was the representative from the Demon God’s Sect. As long as he became the new Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect, he’d receive direct control over everyone, except the Big Five. He’d wait until the time was right, before slowly getting rid of them. After that, it’d be much easier for him to destroy the Divine Feathers Sect!



As Long Tianming was busy in his courtyard, there was a crowd of people gathered in Situ Beiyan’s grand hall. Nie Li, Lu Piao, Gu Bei, Li Xingyun, and Long Yuyin were among them.

“Nie Li, it’s just like you said. Long Tianming really is trying to get rid of me through all sorts of means. I owe you a favor. However, Long Tianming won’t have an easy time of doing that!” Situ Beiyan said as his eyebrow twitched.

Nie Li smiled. “I believe brother Situ already understands that matter fully. My visit this time is to seek help from brother Situ!”

“Help? What is it?” Situ Beiyan lifted his cup and took a sip of tea.

“I know that brother Situ truly wants the Divine Feathers Sect to grow stronger. Soon, it’ll be time to select the Acting Sect Master. I request that brother Situ aid me in ascending to the Sect Master’s position!” Nie Li truthfully answered.

Situ Beiyan was momentarily dazed by Nie Li’s words. Then he laughed, “Nie Li, I admit that I owe you a favor. But your request is a little too funny. Let’s not even talk about the fact that I, myself, am one of the candidates. Even if I wasn’t, why would I nominate you? After all, your roots in the Divine Feathers Sect are too shallow. How long have you been here, anyways? Yet, you want to become the Sect Master? How could they possibly give the Sect Master’s seat to someone whose origins are so unclear?”

“I understand brother Situ’s misgivings. But aren’t I still a bit more qualified than the likes of Long Tianming? If brother Situ can do it, you should send someone to investigate Long Tianming. Start with his cultivation. You’ll learn that Long Tianming was already a member of the Demon God’s Sect, even way back then!”

Situ Beiyan’s brow twitched. “What evidence do you have for that?” If Long Tianming really was someone from the Demon God’s Sect, then Situ Beiyan definitely couldn’t allow him to take the Sect Master’s position!

“I don’t have any evidence. Whether brother Situ believes it or not is up to you. After all, brother Situ is also one of the candidates. When the time comes, Hierarch Skycloud will nominate me as a candidate. I only hope that if brother Situ can’t win against Long Tianming, then you’ll turn around and support me!” Nie Li said with a faint smile.



“Brother Situ, in any case, I absolutely support Nie Li!” Gu Bei firmly vouched.

“Me too!” Li Xingyun nodded.

“And me!” Long Yuyin spoke without the slightest hesitation.

Situ Beiyan blanked at the words of Gu Bei, Li Xingyun, and Long Yuyin. He simply couldn’t understand. Why would these three support Nie Li so firmly? Just what kind of charm did Nie Li possess to convince the three of them so thoroughly?

“Gu Bei, Xingyun, Yuyin, we should take our leave. I believe that brother Situ will definitely make the right choice!” Nie Li smiled as he stood up and walked out.

Gu Bei and the rest followed immediately.

Situ Beiyan frowned at the retreating silhouettes of Nie Li and his group. He had to carefully reflect on Nie Li’s words. If Long Tianming really was someone from the Demon God’s Sect…

No matter what, he definitely couldn’t allow Long Tianming to become the Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect!





Chapter 436: Accident?


Over the next few months, Nie Li continued nurturing the loyal disciples of his Demon League, as well as the experts whom he’d recruited from the Sky Origin Divine Clan.

During this time, Nie Li and his group didn’t stop expanding their forces. With such a large supply of divine medicine, and all kinds of other treasures, the Demon, Heavenly Path, and Profound Note Leagues expanded their strengths at extremely frightening paces.

Nie Li’s strength also continued to rise; he’d now reached the pinnacle of the Heavenly Axis Realm.

Even though Nie Li only had the cultivation of a pinnacle Heavenly Axis Realm, his true strength was on par with any 5-stage Dao of Dragon Realm.

The Heavenly God cultivation technique. The closer you were to its end, the harder it was to cultivate. But with every step your cultivation successfully made, your strength would be amplified ten or even dozens of times above that of any ordinary genius.

Gu Bei looked at Nie Li and said, “Nie Li, I will soon become the Skyway Hall’s Deacon. Even though Gu Heng that bratwas sentenced to meditation, his forces haven’t shown the slightest sign of backing off. He’s already taken in a lot of the people who’ve betrayed the Demon League!”

“Deacon of the Skyway Hall? What kind of position is that?” Nie Li couldn’t help asking.



“It’s like this. The successors of the Gu Clan don’t actually possess any authority. But the first-in-line successor qualifies to become the Skyway Hall’s Deacon. It’s not that big, with only a few hundred people, but it has a hand in all matters dealing with the clan. Once I gain a firm foothold in the Skyway Hall, I’ll be able to take over the clan!” Gu Bei lightly smiled.

“So? Is there any trouble with that?” Nie Li asked with a faint smile.

“Yes, I’d have some difficulty all by myself. However, I also have my sister.” Gu Bei replied with a smile.

The image of a stubborn, yet intelligent lady projected itself into Nie Li’s mind.

Nie Li couldn’t help asking, “How’s your sister?”

“With your divine medicine, my sister’s cultivation has soared by leaps and bounds. Right now, she’s already at the 2-stage Dao of Dragon Realm. Aside from guiding me in resolving family matters, she uses the rest of her time to cultivate. She’s trying to reach the Martial Ancestor Realm in a few years by relying on the power of your divine medicine!” Gu Bei said. He could only sigh at the speed of his sister’s cultivation.

“Your sister’s talent is shocking, indeed!” Nie Li couldn’t help sighing either.

“My sister often speaks of you. She says that you’re someone with a divine destiny, with the power to reverse fate! She asked me to assist you properly!” Gu Bei said with a smile.

Someone who possessed a divine destiny? Reversing fate?



Nie Li pondered those words. Gu Lan’s words were truly fitting; he was someone who’d come to reverse fate.

Nie Li turned his sights to the skyline and remembered the mighty Sage Emperor. A sense of intense urgency welled up in his heart.



Suddenly, Nie Li felt as though his mind was about to explode.

“Ah?” Nie Li bitterly howled. The terrible pain was something that even he couldn’t endure.

“Nie Li, what’s wrong?” Gu Bei immediately asked. He immediately panicked when he saw Nie Li holding his head and howling in pain.

Just what’s going on? Why is Nie Li suddenly in this state?

Long Yuyin, Gu Bei, Li Xingyun and the others heard Nie Li’s howls and quickly ran over.

“What’s wrong with Nie Li?

“Quick, help him up!”

Everyone helped to support Nie Li as they moved to lay him down on a bed.



Nie Li rolled and struggled.

Long Yuyin’s tears flowed at Nie Li’s pained expression. “What’s wrong with him?”



“What’s going on? Did his cultivation run amok?” Li Xingyun hadn’t seen anything like this before, either. The best he could do to help was restrain Nie Li as he struggled, then help take his pulse. Even though Li Xingyun wasn’t a famed doctor, or anything of the sort, he still had some limited medical knowledge.

Before, everyone had listened and taken instructions from Nie Li. Something like this had never happened before. This sudden turn of events left them panicked and at a loss.

“There’s nothing wrong with his pulse.”

“Something must have gone wrong with his soul realm!”

“If something went wrong with his soul realm, we can’t meddle recklessly!”

“Set up a barrier around here and get some Calm Inducing Incense for him!”

“Quick, fetch some good doctors too!”

Soon, one doctor after another hurried into Nie Li’s residence, the finest from each of the three major families. But after inspecting Nie Li’s condition, they all left while helplessly shaking their heads. They were powerless to help Nie Li.

A frightening energy kept exploding within Nie Li’s mind. The only thing he was aware of was the overwhelming pain. It felt like his entire soul realm was about to shatter.

A vague figure appeared in his mind. A pretty lady, and oh-so-familiar. Nie Li couldn’t help trying to catch up to it.

“Master!” Nie Li mumbled.

Long Yuyin, Li Xingyun and the rest had all been keeping a vigil at Nie Li’s side. They were extremely worried, since there hadn’t been any changes in Nie Li’s condition. They didn’t know why he was in such a condition, either.

Lu Piao was already in tears. “Nie Li, you better not die!”



The two of them had left Glory City and reached this Draconic Ruins Realm together. Nie Li was his best friend. He wanted them to return together as well!

Long Yuyin’s eyes also flickered with tears. In her heart, Nie Li wasn’t just a master. He was much more than that. She’d irrevocably fallen for him, since long ago. And Nie Li’s sudden turn really scared her. She clutched tightly to his hand.

The same went for Gu Bei and Li Xingyun. The two were restless, their eyes never straying away from Nie Li for long. Nie Li was a friend close to their hearts, and their greatest guide and leader. He was the one who’d guided them out from their terrifying quagmires! If anything happened to him, they’d blame themselves to the grave!

Nie Li painfully struggled while howling for over half an hour, before his voice slowly began to weaken. His struggles grew more feeble and his breathing calmed. He seemed to have fallen asleep.

Only after they saw that Nie Li had settled down, did everyone slowly let their guards down.

Gu Bei let out a sigh of relief. “I knew it! There’s nothing wrong. He probably just encountered a bottleneck in his cultivation. Who knows? When he wakes up, he might be a Dao of Dragon Realm! I knew Nie Li wasn’t so frail!”

Li Xingyun pondered for a bit, then said, “That wasn’t the reaction of someone who’s ascending in cultivation. If that was the case, then his pulse should be one beat strong, one beat weak. But either way, he should be fine!”

“Really?” Long Yuyin wiped the tears off her face as she asked Li Xingyun and the others. However, her heart still worried for Nie Li.

“Since he’s asleep, we’ll let him sleep for a while!” Li Xingyun replied with a smile.





Chapter 437: Dreamland


Nie Li felt as though he’d sunk deep into a dreamland.

Something kept calling out to him.

It was a girl’s voice, so familiar to his ears.

It’s Master!

“Master, where are you?” Nie Li yelled. These past few days, he’d been doing his best to raise his strength, never slacking for even the briefest moment. Because he knew that if he didn’t grow strong enough, fast enough, then his Master would fall to the plot of someone inside the Divine Feathers Sect.

Even though Long Yuyin had changed and was no longer a threat to his Master, there were still others inside the Divine Feathers Sect who harboured ill intents!

Nie Li wanted to become the Sect Master so that he could protect his own Master.

“Nie Li, I’m using the Magic Note of Heaven and Earth to communicate with you through my intent. Your destiny to reverse the heaven and earth and it is too powerful. If I do nothing, then the Sage Emperor will detect you, once you reach the Heavenly Axis Realm. Before long, he’ll send his Deity-servants after you. I’m using the Heavenly Path technique to shift your fate to mine!”

“How could this be? What about you, Master?”

“Nie Li, by the time your cultivation reached the Heavenly Axis Realm, I was already gone from the Divine Feathers Sect. I’ve given some guidance to your friends in the other major sects so that they can aid you in the future. As for myself, I am already being pursued by the Deity-servants. I’ve used the Illusionary Secret Array to conceal my own aura, but I can’t hold on for much longer.”

“Master, I’ve done all this so that you could be safe. As long as you’re safe, I can do anything…”

“Silly boy. All good things must come to an end… You have things you must do. Go do them. Don’t think about anything else. If killing the Sage Emperor will save all lives, then I’ll lay down my own life without hesitation. In the endless eras, countless people have wielded the Heaven’s Divination technique. Each powerful genius who has become aware of fate has helplessly fallen, one after another, in a confrontation against the Sage Emperor. It was the same with my Master. Since my death is of value, why wouldn’t I give it?”

Nie Li felt scenes being transmitted into his brain.

He felt his Master kiss him on the forehead. The affectionate warmth and care of a mother.



Ying Yueru stood in the sky, surrounded by rolling clouds of seven colours. Countless illusions formed around her, giving her the air of a proud goddess. Her fair and beautiful cheeks brimmed with endless charm. She looked at Nie Li and smiled. Her complexion glowed so beautifully that she seemed not to be of the mortal world.

Ying Yueru had always been a fairy in Nie Li’s heart. That was how transcendent her beauty was. Each gesture, from the slight knit of the brows to her smile, was deeply imprinted on Nie Li’s mind.

However, Nie Li had never entertained even the slightest profane thought regarding his Master. He was filled only with respect towards Ying Yueru; he only wanted her to be safe.

Nie Li wanted to charge forward, but his body was locked, unable to move the slightest bit.

This was still a dreamland!

In this dreamland, there was nothing Nie Li could do!

Suddenly, a huge figure appeared within the seven coloured clouds, a shape several hundred meters tall with silvery-black armour and wielded a huge spear in his hand. He looked as vicious as an Asura from the underworld.

He was a Deity-servant of the Sage Emperor!

Aside from Deity-ranked beasts, the Sage Emperor also kept many powerful Deity-servants at his side. They were responsible for overseeing the matters of the worlds, the dogs of the Sage Emperor. The strength of those Deity-servants was inferior only to the Deity-ranked beasts.

“Ying Yueru, the Lord Emperor has called upon me to take your life. Your fate has reached its limit!” The Deity-servant boomed, dignified and vast, like roaring thunder through Nie Li’s head.

Nie Li mournfully howled and his eyes turned misty. He saw the vague outline of a massive hand grasp towards the seven-coloured clouds.

“No! Master! Run!” Nie Li urgently cried.

Ying Yueru looked in his direction with a calm smile on her face, an expression as content as it had always been. It was as though the concepts of life and death were unrelated to her.

Ying Yueru had displayed astonishing intellect since she was young. As a child, she gained understanding of heaven and earth long before any of her peers. When faced with life and death, she was far more peaceful than any other.

“The Heaven’s Divination is everlasting. The Sage Emperor can kill me, but he can only fantasise about cutting the fate that runs between heaven and earth. The Sage Emperor is incomparably proud. He can freely underestimate all the heroes under the sky, but he should not underestimate the Heavenly Dao. Once the Heavenly Dao senses that the Sage Emperor threatens all lives, someone will come to deliver heaven’s justice!”

The deity-servant only laughed at Ying Yueru’s words. “Hahaha! ‘Deliver heaven’s justice?’ Ying Yueru, you should be calculating your own fate instead. The Sage Emperor once said, ‘If the Heavenly Dao goes against me, then I shall destroy it.’ The Sage Emperor has sealed the once endless space and time. In another two hundred years, the Heavenly Dao will be thoroughly refined. What vast Heavenly Dao? What supreme sovereign? Those are nothing but empty words that you cultivators use to deceive yourselves and others!”

“Heaven and earth are deep and profound, nurturing tens of thousands of lifeforms. Not only are you unable to return the favor, but you want to extinguish the very heaven and earth that has given us life. Doesn’t the Sage Emperor feel any guilt?” Ying Yueru accused.

“How could the soaring heart of the Sage Emperor be understood by a mere colony of ants, such as yourself? Ying Yueru, it’s time you head for the road1!”

The massive hand clutched down and the seven-coloured clouds broke open.

Nie Li saw the palm grab Ying Yueru. Fresh blood splattered in all directions.



“NOOO…” Nie Li painfully wailed. Scenes flashed through his mind. Times with his Master. After returning to this life, he thought he had the power to protect her. But even still, his Master had died.

A faintly discernible voice resounded in Nie Li’s mind. It was Ying Yueru’s long sigh.

“Who can understand the reason for human life? Creation and destruction, there’s no need for sorrow. Nie Li, you should do what you must. And I will head for the place where I should be going.”

The voice carried a trace of melancholy, tearing Nie Li’s heart apart.

Sage Emperor, I will definitely won’t let you go. This is a grudge over two lifetimes! Nie Li’s heart was filled with hatred. His body felt like it’d explode with frightening energy.

The dreamland quickly dissipated and Nie Li sank into endless sleep once again.

His soul realm circulated.

Long Yuyin and the rest were all gathered at Nie Li’s side. Nie Li’s painful wailing had shocked them earlier. They didn’t know what’d happened, but they could feel Nie Li’s sorrow. Long Yuyin felt her heart ache in a vague way. She didn’t know what’d happened to Nie Li.

However, Nie Li only struggled in pain for a brief moment before the calm returned to his face and he sank back into sleep.

Perhaps it was all just a dream…

* * *



The “road” to the afterlife. A common euphemism in Chinese.





Chapter 438: Contest (1)


Several days later

It was soon time to select the Acting Sect Master. The elders and deacons who’d been stationed to the various corners of the Divine Feathers Sect had all rushed home. The Divine Feathers Sect had become particularly lively.

Those with ability to fight for the Acting Sect Master’s position had all become more active.

An Acting Sect Master would possess solid authority. As long as they made no major mistakes while sitting in that seat, they had a ninety percent chance of becoming the next Sect Master.

Lu Piao, Gu Bei, Li Xingyun and the rest were all gathered, looking worried. Nie Li still hadn’t regained consciousness and Long Yuyin hadn’t taken a single step away from her vigil at his side. She also wasn’t going to take part in the contest. Who else was left who could fight for the Acting Sect Master’s position? The remaining ones definitely weren’t a match for Long Tianming.

“What should we do now? Nie Li still hasn’t regained consciousness. Are we going to watch Long Tianming ascend to the Acting Sect Master’s position?” Lu Piao anguished. “If things turn out like that, then won’t all of Nie Li’s preparations have been in vain?”



“Then what can we do?” Gu Bei bitterly smiled.

Li Xingyun’s brows were tightly knit together. He was also thinking about how they should handle the current situation.

Gu Bei thought for a bit, then said, “Even if we can’t compete for the Acting Sect Master’s position, we still can’t allow Long Tianming to have his way. Why don’t we support Situ Beiyan instead! Letting Situ Beiyan take the seat is still better than letting Long Tianming have it.”

“Alright, let’s do that!” Li Xingyun nodded after thinking about it.

Center of the Divine Feathers Sect

Various experts of the sect rose into the air.

The sky above the Divine Feathers Sect was filled with hundreds of bobbing heads.



After all, the Divine Feathers Sect was one of the supreme major sects. Therefore, they still held rather amazing strength. Aside from the inner sector, there were also more than three hundred sixty outer sectors who’d sent members to take part in the sacred ceremony.

At the peak of the sky, five massive figures appeared. The five Martial Ancestor Realms of the Divine Feathers Sect; three men, and two women with seven-coloured lights circulating their bodies. You couldn’t clearly see their faces, but you could tell that they were dignified beings.

These were the five Hierarchs of the Divine Feathers Sect.

Their leader was the current Sect Master, Hierarch Martialsky. The others were Hierarch Linglong, Skycloud, Crimsonblood, and Dragonblaze.

These five Hierarchs held the majestic status as the pillars of the Divine Feathers Sect. Even though there were many grand elders within the sect, those experts usually didn’t leave their seclusion. Therefore, most of the decisions were usually left to the five Hierarchs.

Hierarch Martialsky’s voice resounded throughout the Divine Feathers Sect. “I believe everyone knows why we’ve gathered the disciples of the sect here, today. In the past few days, my cultivation reached the 7-stage of Martial Ancestor Realm. I’m required to go into seclusion to aim for a higher cultivation. Matters in the sect will be left to the Acting Sect Master. Today, we choose this Acting Sect Master!”

“Sect Master, please reveal!”

The voices in Divine Feathers Sect were standardised.



“The Acting Sect Master must be chosen from the members of the sect. Who do you think is fitting?” Hierarch Martialsky’s burning gaze swept over the crowd.

Hierarch Linglong and Hierarch Skycloud seemed to be conversing on something.

“Skycloud, why hasn’t that Nie Li, who you’ve spoken of, arrived?”

“I’m not sure, either. I’m afraid that you should know more than me, right?”

“Why is that?” Hierarch Linglong was rather curious.



“Doesn’t Hierarch Linglong know? That Long Yuyin girl has a strong affection for Nie Li. It’s said that Long Yuyin’s mother even wants to marry them. If this marriage succeeds, that kid would become Hierarch Linglong’s grandson-in-law.” Hierarch Skycloud lightly smiled.

“So there was something like that going on? It looks like I’ll have to pay attention to this Nie Li!” Hierarch Linglong’s voice was filled with a sort of charm and allure. If Nie Li heard it, he’d be most curious. Hierarch Linglong’s voice was simply too similar to Long Yuyin’s mother’s.

The four Hierarchs conversed. Only Hierarch Martialsky stayed aside, making arrangements for various affairs.

“The selection for the Acting Sect Master begins. The elders will state their nominations. Those who’ve been named by at least ten elders qualify to compete for the Acting Sect Master’s position,” Hierarch Martialsky declared.

There were a little over two hundred elders in the entirety of the Divine Feathers Sect. Therefore, earning those qualifications was actually rather simple.

But what surprised everyone was the fact that the only ones who’d actually earned the qualifications were Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan. Sixty-one elders had nominated Long Tianming, while another fifty-three nominated Situ Beiyan.

True, those two were the only ones who were truly qualified to compete for the Acting Sect Master’s position. The majority of the other contenders had backed out awkwardly. Regardless of whether it was prestige, personal strength, or forces, no one else could compete against those two.

“So, we have two candidates for the Acting Sect Master. Let’s wait to see if there might be any more. Otherwise, we shall proceed according to past rituals. Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan are to battle with their forces!” Hierarch Maritalsky declared solemnly.

Hierarch Skycloud swept his eyes through the crowd, but couldn’t find Nie Li. He was rather curious. Recently, Hierarch Skycloud had been spreading out the base for Nie Li, and he’d received quite a bit of support already. The other Hierarchs were still considering. But now that it was time to select the Acting Sect Master, Nie Li wasn’t here. Hierarch Skycloud had no idea what Nie Li might be doing.



However, he wasn’t worried. Since Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan were fighting for the position of the Acting Sect Master, they’d have to battle. And that would require at least several years before a conclusion could be drawn.

“Very well. Now, it’s time to examine your forces and leadership qualities. The two of you may begin!” Hierarch Martialsky smiled and waved his hand.



The various experts of the Divine Feathers Sect backed off to make space in the center.

Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan brought their men and lined up on two sides. Each side had at least tens of thousands of experts.

In order to become the Acting Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect, not only did you need personal strength, you also had to lead the finest forces. The only way to gain the Acting Sect Master’s seat was to establish your own forces and be capable of leading tens of thousands of soldiers. That’s why no one else had bothered to fight Long Tianming or Situ Beiyan. The only one who’d succeed the Acting Sect Master’s position was the one who’d win that fight and the support of at least three of the five Hierarchs.

There weren’t many in the younger generations of the Divine Feathers Sect who could lead tens of thousands of soldiers.

Long Tianming was a direct descendent of one of the three major families, the Dragonseal Family. He was fully qualified for the position; meanwhile, Situ Beiyan was the son of the current Sect Master. Anyone who dared to go against those two was simply overestimating themselves.

Everyone had foreseen this ultimate battle between Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan, long before this sacred ceremony even started!

Long Tianming stood high up in the sky, his clothes fluttering in the wind. His grand appearance and slender figure were truly outstanding. But, of course, Situ Beiyan wasn’t inferior in the slightest. He, too, stood proudly in his green robes.

Fighting intent soared up there in the sky. A huge battle will soon unfold.





Chapter 439: Contest (2)


Situ Beiyan glanced out at the crowd. He didn’t know why Nie Li wasn’t there.

Could Long Tianming have pulled some underhanded method and rendered Nie Li unable to attend?

Either way, Nie Li’s warning about Long Tianming had raised Situ Beiyan’s vigilance. He definitely wasn’t going to let Long Tianming take the Sect Master’s position of the Divine Feathers Sect.

Situ Beiyan coldly growled. With a wave of his hand, a group of experts whistled through the air and began their probing attacks towards Long Tianming’s men.

“Who do you think will win? Situ Beiyan or Long Tianming?” The crowd of disciples were discussing amongst themselves.

“Of course it’s going to be brother Situ!”

Situ Beiyan was the son of the Sect Master. His forces had always been pressing down on Long Tianming’s; that’s why everyone thought better of Situ Beiyan.



“But Long Tianming isn’t a weak competitor!”

Lu Piao, Li Xingyun, Gu Bei and the rest were all watching from the sides, feeling depressed in their hearts. They’d spent so long making preparations; but now, all they could do was watch as Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan fought it out. There was nothing they could do. But if they had to make a choice between Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan, they would naturally support Situ Beiyan.

Long Yuyin stood among the crowd, glaring at Long Tianming with pure disgust and loathing. She’d only stepped out to get a quick look at the situation before returning to Nie Li’s side.

Everyone’s eyes were gathered on the center of the conflict.

This battle would likely decide the fate of the entire Divine Feathers Sect.

*Boom!* *Boom!* *Boom!*

Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan’s forces had become one disorganised mass. The two sides were equally matched.

*Woosh!* *Woosh!* *Woosh!*

Six Dao of Dragon Realm experts suddenly shot out and started a frantic massacre.

“Six Dao of Dragon Realm experts!” Situ Beiyan’s heart slightly shook. Situ Beiyan had realised that, in addition to these six Dao of Dragon Realm experts, Long Tianming still had some other experts hidden away. A rough estimation told him that there should be three more Dao of Dragon Realm experts.



Just when had Long Tianming recruited so many experts?

Situ Beiyan angrily roared and the five Dao of Dragon Realm experts under him charged into the battle.

The fight between the Dao of Dragon Realm experts was simply a total mess.

The Big Five conversed between themselves.



A woman’s voice resounded, Hierarch Linglong. She’s Long Yuyin’s grandmother and an influential figure in the Divine Feathers Sect.

“It seems like Situ Beiyan is going to lose. Is my Dragonseal Family going to have the Acting Sect Master’s position?” Hierarch Linglong’s voice was extremely charming and resembled Long Yuyin’s mother’s voice, Long Shuyun’s. Her voice could soften the bones of anyone who heard it.

Hierarch Martialsky lightly smiled. “The position of the Acting Sect Master is for those who are capable. What harm is there to letting the Dragonseal Family have it?”

“Sect Master, you’re putting it the wrong way. My Dragonseal Family has clearly taken it with strength; how could you say you ‘let’ it happen? The only strange thing is that that Nie Li kid worked so hard to prepare. So much so that he even gave us so many sacred medicines. Why didn’t he show up to fight for it? What a disappointment!”

The other Hierarch, Hierarch Dragonblaze, spoke up. “Linglong, if Nie Li were here, wouldn’t he snatch the Acting Sect Master’s position from Long Tianming?”

“Dragonblaze, am I really such a petty person? Nie Li has given elixirs strong enough to raise our ranks. That alone makes him far more valuable than any Acting Sect Master. If he was here, what’d be the harm in letting him have it?”

“Linglong, you better not forget those words!”



“That’s for sure!”

The five Hierarchs of the Divine Feathers Sect, Hierarchs Martialsky, Skycloud, Dragonblaze, Linglong, and Crimsonblood, were the pinnacle existences of the Divine Feathers Sect. Their presence was the reason why the demonic sects like the Demon God’s Sect, didn’t dare to invade. Each enhancement to their cultivation had great impacts for the fate of the sect.

When Hierarch Skycloud first gave them the elixirs, a few of them still had doubts. But after consuming the elixirs, each and every one of them was shocked by the powerful medicinal effects. The slowest among them had advanced one rank. Hierarch Martialsky advanced two ranks. Hierarch Skycloud had advanced three.

In the Martial Ancestor Realm, each level would be as hard to reach as ascending the heavens. At the same time, every advancement to their rank would increase their cultivation by many times!

You could say that Nie Li’s contributions towards the Divine Feathers Sect had far surpassed anyone else’s. Even if Nie Li’s origins were unknown, he definitely qualified to become the Acting Sect Master.

By now, Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan’s fight had already reached its climax. Long Tianming and Situ Beiyan, themselves, had already joined the battle. The two of them were already Dao of Dragon Realm experts.

Situ Beiyan furiously roared as he merged with his demon spirit, a Celestial Blood Dragon bathed in flames. Its razor-sharp claws reflected a heart-stabbing chill of light. This Celestial Blood Dragon was tens of meters in height and emitted a frightening aura.

A few Divine Feathers Sect’s disciples cried out in surprise, “It’s a Celestial Blood Dragon! It’s one of the most outstanding among God-level growth rate Demon Spirits!”

Long Tianming saw that Situ Beiyan had integrated with a Celestial Blood Dragon, and the corner of his mouth raised into a disdainful smile. He also snarled as he transformed. In an instant, a massive black dragon appeared in front of everyone’s eyes.

This black dragon was much larger than Situ Beiyan’s Celestial Blood Dragon.



At the same time, a mysterious golden luster covered its body.

“How is that possible?”



“Long Tianming merged with his demon spirit? It’s actually a Dark Saint Dragon!”

God-level growth rate Demon Spirits with Dragon Bloodlines were already extremely rare. However, there still existed some Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirits that were far more powerful than that, such as Nie Li’s Bloodwing Saint Jiao-dragon and Long Tianming’s Dark Saint Dragon. They were pinnacle existences.

“Situ Beiyan, admit defeat. You’re not my match!” Long Tianming issued a long roar as he waved his black steel-like claws towards Situ Beiyan’s Celestial Blood Dragon.

*Boom!*

The Dark Saint Dragon’s claw landed on the Celestial Blood Dragon and sent it flying.



Situ Beiyan was filled with an unwilling sense of defeat. He remembered Nie Li’s words. If he lost, then there’d be no one to stop Long Tianming.

He issued a furious roar, circulated the Celestial Blood Dragon’s energy through his soul realm, and charged at Long Tianming.

Before, Long Tianming’s strength had always been below Situ Beiyan’s. But, for some reason, his current strength was far above expectations. Furthermore, Long Tianming possessed such a powerful Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirit — the Dark Saint Dragon. If anyone told Situ Beiyan that Long Tianming didn’t have a sponsor behind him, he wouldn’t believe them.

Nie Li’s words might actually be true!

He definitely had to stop Long Tianming!





Chapter 440: Joining the Fray


Long Tianming proudly looked down at Situ Beiyan. “It doesn’t matter whether or not you give up. You weren’t my match since long ago! Furthermore, your forces are far inferior than mine!”

“Get lost!” Long Tianming furiously barked as his Dark Saint Dragon transformation threw a palm towards the Celestial Saint Dragon, sending the latter flying.

Situ Beiyan was sent back a few hundred meters, before he returned to his original shape. He clutched his chest and vomited blood. Even still, he was unresigned and wanted to continue the battle. However, a broad voice sounded from above them. “Beiyan, you’ve lost. There’s no need to fight, anymore!”

Situ Beiyan was extremely depressed. In the end, he still couldn’t be Long Tianming’s match!

What was going to happen to the future of the Divine Feathers Sect?

Hierarch Martialsky gazed at Situ Beiyan with a sigh. Then, he swept his eyes over the other disciples of the Divine Feathers Sect. “Long Tianming has won this battle!”



At Hierarch Martialsky’s words, Long Tianming showed a pleased expression. He’d won.

He’d soon become the Acting Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect. He couldn’t help the burning excitement in his heart.

The crowd waited for Hierarch Martialsky to declare the final results. As the last one standing, Long Tianming would take unparalleled glory.



All of Long Tianming’s followers had joy written all over their faces. From this moment onwards, they’d be riding on Long Tianming’s success. Once Long Tianming ascended to the Acting Sect Master’s position, they’d be able to walk horizontally straight through the middle of Divine Feathers Sect.

Hierarch Martialsky searched the crowd. Nie Li still didn’t shown up. If that’s the case, then the Acting Sect Master’s position would default to Long Tianming. Just as he was about to announce the results, a group flew over to him.

As far as he could tell, the young man leading them should be Nie Li.

The words paused at the tip of Hierarch Martialsky’s tongue.

Long Tianming started growing anxious. Even though he’d clearly won, Hierarch Martialsky was delaying the announcement for some reason.

Was Hierarch Martialsky going to go against his words?

Suddenly, a loud cry was heard. “Wait! I still haven’t participated. Why is it ending already?”

Everyone’s eyes settled on that person.

“It’s Nie Li!”



“Haha! Nie Li has arrived!”

Upon seeing Nie Li, Lu Piao, Gu Bei, Li Xingyun and the rest all flared up. The entire Demon League also flared up.

Nie Li had finally regained consciousness!

Long Yuyin’s eyes turned red and misty as she thought about it.

They couldn’t wait any longer.

Nie Li landed a few hundred meters in front of Long Tianming with a light smile. “My Demon League still hasn’t joined this battle. How could it end before then?”

Long Tianming noticed Nie Li’s confidence and had a dark premonition. “Your Demon League didn’t even participate in the primary selections. What makes you qualified to participate in this one?”

The other disciples heard Long Tianming’s words and began spiritedly discussing amongst themselves.

Before the discussions ceased, Long Tianming spoke again. “Not to mention that you only joined the Divine Feathers Sect a little while ago. Furthermore, your origins are unknown. Who knows if you’re a spy from the Demon God’s Sect? You’re fine as an ordinary disciple, but you don’t qualify to fight for the seat of the Acting Sect Master!”

The discussions increased. Indeed, Nie Li’s origins were unknown and no one knew where he’d come from. Such a person was unsuitable to become the Acting Sect Master.

“Get lost!”



“You don’t have the qualifications!” Long Tianming’s underlings hissed.

Nie Li, however, lightly smiled. “As to whether if I possess the qualifications, you don’t get to decide that. You should ask the five Hierarchs whether or not I possess the qualifications.”

At those words, Long Tianming cupped his hands towards Hierarch Martialsky and the others. “Sect Master and esteemed Hierarchs, Nie Li’s origins are unknown and we must be cautious of that. Furthermore, the Demon League has not participated in the primary selections. Therefore, they do not possess the qualifications to join the final battle. I plead for the Hierarchs’ wisdom!”

As Long Tianming finished those words, a cold smile showed itself at the corner of his mouth. Even if Nie Li was capable, it’d be impossible for the Hierarchs to feel at ease with a person like Nie Li. Victory was already in his hands!

Then, Hiearch Martialsky faintly smiled. “I can guarantee Nie Li’s character. There is no problem. I permit the Demon League to participate in the final battle! However, this decision isn’t mine, alone. We must hear the opinions of the other Hierarchs!”

Long Tianming’s expression turned dark at Hierarch Martialsky’s words. Hierarch Martialsky was the Sect Master and Situ Beiyan’s father. He was probably doing this because he was unhappy with the fact that Situ Beiyan had lost. That’s why he was pushing Nie Li up. After all, Nie Li would be much easier to control.

Now, they had to listen to opinions of the other Hierarchs.

Nie Li, however, held a bright smile in his heart. These Hierarchs had accepted his gift. The gifts that could allow a Martial Ancestor Realm expert’s strength grow by leaps and bounds. Forget about the position of Acting Sect Master. With so many elixirs, he could probably buy the entire Divine Feathers Sect, if he wanted to. How could Hierarch Martialsky possibly say no?

A moment later, Hierarch Linglong spoke up. “I agree and allow the Demon League to participate in the final battle!”

Everyone was dazed at Hierarch LinglongLinglong’s words. Hierarch LinglongLinglong was from the Dragonseal Family. Long Tianming was a direct descendent of that family. So why would she stand on Nie Li’s side?

Everyone started getting a vague feeling that the situation might see an unexpected reversal.

“I agree as well!”

“So do I!”



The three other Hierarchs also firmly expressed their thoughts.

This outcome shocked all the disciples present. They directed their eyes at Nie Li with bewilderment. How did Nie Li manage to gain the support of all five Hierarchs? Regardless of whether or not Nie Li won the battle and took the seat of the Acting Sect Master, after today, no one would ever look at him the same again.

Nie Li was the only one who’d obtained the acknowledgment of all five Hierarchs! Didn’t that carry much more meaning than the seat of the Acting Sect Master?



Nie Li smiled as he looked at Long Tianming. “Since all five Hierarchs have agreed, then can we, the Demon League, participate in this battle?”

Long Tianming was furious. He didn’t know what methods Nie Li might’ve used to convince the five Hierarchs. By right, Nie Li’s identity should’ve made it impossible to even see the faces of those five Hierarchs. However, this impossibility had become the reality and there was nothing that Long Tianming could do about it!

Long Tianming coldly snorted, “Hmph! Since the five Hierarchs have agreed, then I have nothing to say. But, even though your Demon League has joined the battle, I will make sure you lose miserably!”





Chapter 441: Dao of Dragon Realm Experts


“Whether or not I lose badly… Well, that’s my problem.” Nie Li replied with a light smile.

Soon, Long Tianming’s and Nie Li’s men were lined up on two sides, glaring at each other like tigers stalking their prey.

Long Tianming had many experts on his side, whereas Nie Li stood alone.

“You’re not going to deal with so many experts all by yourself, right?” Long Tianming coldly smiled at Nie Li with contempt. Long Tianming had at least six Dao of Dragon Realm experts under him, in addition to all of his Heavenly Axis Realms. He was definitely in a position to look down on the Demon League!

Everyone’s eyes were focused on Nie Li. No one knew what Nie Li was planning.

Nie Li looked at Long Tianming, sighed, and shook his head. “This isn’t even a challenge. It’s almost like I’m bullying you!”

“What are you talking about?” Long Tianming coldly looked at Nie Li. “You’re simply spewing nonsense! Quick, call your people out! If you want to give up, then you should’ve said so, earlier!”

“Brat, if you want to admit defeat, then do it faster. Don’t waste our time here.”

“Hey, Demon League! Don’t be a cowardly turtle! You better watch out, or else our six Dao of Dragon Realm bosses are going to massacre you so badly, there won’t even be fragments of armour left to pick up!”

Long Tianming’s underlings incessantly hooted.



Suddenly, Nie Li lightly smiled, waved his right hand, shouted back to them, “People of the Demon League, come out!”

*Woosh!* *Woosh!* *Woosh!*

One figure after another appeared, all collecting in Nie Li’s direction.

Two hundred people gathered by Nie Li’s side.

“With only that many people?” Long Tianming laughed involuntarily.

“These two hundred are enough. If you don’t think so, I can still call out some more!” Nie Li said with a light smile.

The experts of the Divine Feathers Sect all exchanged looks. With so few people, how could the Demon League possibly fight against Long Tianming?

By contrast, the five Martial Ancestor Realm experts exchanged looks of deep shock.

These two hundred or so people had concealed their aura, so that the ordinary disciples couldn’t sense their strengths. However, the five Martial Ancestor Realm experts could clearly sense it. These two hundred people were all Dao of Dragon Realm experts!

Over two hundred Dao of Dragon Realm experts…

Hierarch Martialsky and the other Hierarchs were extremely shocked. Even if you gathered all of the Dao of Dragon Realm experts of the Divine Feathers Sect, they only added up to a little over a hundred. But Nie Li actually had over two hundred Dao of Dragon Realm experts.

Hierarch Linglong couldn’t help laughing. “Haha! This brat is interesting. He actually managed to get two hundred Dao of Dragon Realm experts!”

“Where do you think that kid got so many experts from?”



Hierarch Martialsky remained silent, then said, “He was able to provide us with so many sacred medicines. He might’ve provided some to his subordinates, as well!”

“Sect Master, you’re saying he created these experts with medicines?” Hierarch Dragonblaze blankly questioned.

Hierarch Martialsky nodded. “Correct. Look at these people. Most of them are at 1-stage Dao of Dragon Realm. They have probably only just recently broke through from 9-stage Heavenly Axis Realm!”

“Long Tianming is destined to lose!”



Nie Li waved his hand and solemnly announced, “Those of the Sky Origin Divine Clan, come out!”

*Woosh!* *Woosh!* *Woosh!*

About a hundred Sky Origin Divine Clan experts appeared at Nie Li’s side. Nie Li didn’t dare to show the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting in a place like this; that’s why he’d summoned these experts a while ago and hid them among the Demon League’s ranks.

The sudden appearance of over a hundred experts was a spectacular sight. The majority of these Sky Origin Divine Clan experts possessed great strength.

“Good heavens! A hundred Sky Origin Divine Clan experts, all at the Dao of Dragon Realm!”

“Oh my god!”



Cries of alarm sounded from these Divine Feathers Sect’s experts. Everyone was too shocked.

Those were over a hundred Dao of Dragon Realm experts!

The five Hierarchs exchanged bitter smiles, but not a single word.

The two hundred Dao of Dragon Realm experts were already astounding enough. But now, there was another hundred. Furthermore, they were all members of the Sky Origin Divine Clan. This was simply too shocking.

“This kid went to the Endless Wilderness to recruit all these Sky Origin Divine Clan experts?”

“I heard that each Sky Origin Divine Clan expert costs an exorbitant sum. Not to mention Dao of Dragon Realm ones. This boy actually recruited over a hundred of them!” Even Hierarch Crimsonblood couldn’t help exclaiming in wonder.

Hierarch Skycloud felt the same, and realised that there were still many things in this world he didn’t understand.

“The reason is simple. Since he had so many elixirs, he probably sold a portion to gain a vast amount of wealth. That’s why he could recruit all these Sky Origin Divine Clan members!” Hierarch Martialsky sighed.

Over three hundred Dao of Dragon Realm experts. This wasn’t a force that could be underestimated!



If Nie Li was allowed to continue growing at this pace, what sort of glorious era would he bring to the Divine Feathers Sect? They simply couldn’t imagine it.

Even if Nie Li had refused to become the Acting Sect Master, the five Hierarchs wouldn’t have stood for it. Because only Nie Li could revive the Divine Feathers Sect!



Long Tianming was seriously winded by the sight.

“He’s cheating! Lord Hierarchs, he’s cheating!” Long Tianming’s voice was urgent.

Nie Li’s brows twitched. “How have I cheated? Could it be that there are rules against Sky Origin Divine Clan experts participating in the competition? They are all my servants. Can they not participate in this competition?”

The Divine Feathers Sect’s experts looked at one another. Nie Li’s words did make sense. What he’d done shouldn’t be considered cheating.

Since these Sky Origin Divine Clan’s experts were all Nie Li’s servants, they should be able to participate in the battle.

Except that the sudden appearance of over a hundred Sky Origin Divine Clan’s experts was simply too unbelievable.



Hierarch Martialsky’s voice resounded. “Nie Li has not cheated by bringing his servants to the battle.”

Everyone in the Divine Feathers Sect heard his voice. Since Hierarch Martialsky declared it so, how could anyone else possibly object?

It was only then that it hit Long Tianming. The five Hierarchs were already on Nie Li’s side. Who knows what methods Nie Li had used!?

However, Long Tianming still wasn’t ready to give up. He’d been planning for this for so long and had sacrificed so much. Just as he was about to ascend to the Acting Sect Master’s position, Nie Li suddenly appeared halfway and wasted all his plans.

“Damn it!” Long Tianming was furious. Then, he thought of something. “Five Hierarchs, show your wisdom! Among the Divine Feathers Sect disciples, who could possibly possess such frightening wealth as to recruit over a hundred Sky Origin Divine Clan experts? He’s definitely being backed by the demon clan. He’s a spy in our Divine Feathers Sect. You cannot let him have the Acting Sect Master’s position! Otherwise, he’ll destroy the future of our Divine Feathers Sect!”





Chapter 442: Sect Master Nie


That outburst aroused the suspicions of the disciples of the Divine Feathers Sect and they all turned to look at Nie Li. True, his wealth was far beyond reasonable. How could an ordinary Divine Feathers Sect disciple possess such wealth?

If he really does have support from the demon clan, then Nie Li must never ascend up to the Acting Sect Master’s position.

Nie Li lightly smiled. “Long Tianming, what else do you accuse me of? Say all you want!”

Long Tianming was simply a thief crying thief!

Long Tianming knelt towards the five Hierarchs. “Five Lord Hierarchs, for the sake of our Divine Feathers Sect, we cannot hand over the authority of our sect to this person!”

The five Hierarchs were silent at Long Tianming’s words. They only felt humor at Long Tianming’s words.



If Nie Li really was a spy from the demon clan, why would be pay such a huge price for just the Acting Sect Master’s position?

Everything else aside, there was the fact that Nie Li had given those priceless elixirs to the five Hierarchs. Those elixirs alone, were far more valuable than the Acting Sect Master’s position! Furthermore, Nie Li had been able to nurture so many Dao of Dragon Realm experts. Such a force would be enough to turn the entire Divine Feathers Sect on its head!

Therefore, Long Tianming’s accusations were baseless!



Hierarch Martialsky laughed, “Long Tianming, you should not accuse a fellow sect member without any evidence!”

“Sect Master, do not be deceived. Give me a month and I’ll definitely find evidence of him communicating with our enemies!” Long Tianming pressed. The position of the Acting Sect Master was about to be stolen from him and he could only watch. He was in extreme despair.



Hierarch Skycloud coldly snorted, “Long Tianming, Nie Li is my own disciple. You say that he’s communicating with the enemy and is a traitor to the sect. Are you accusing me as well?”

“Lord Hierarch Skycloud, I wouldn’t dare. I only hope that you won’t be deceived by this vile person!” Long Tianming was desperate. He simply couldn’t understand why the two Hierarchs would be so supportive of Nie Li. Was it really just because of Nie Li’s strength?

Now, Hierarch Linglong, who’d been standing to the side, spoke up. “Long Tianming, you’re a descendent of my Dragonseal Family. You must show some generosity. Since you’ve lost, the position of the Acting Sect Master naturally goes to Nie Li!”

Even Hierarch Linglong was on Nie Li’s side? Long Tianming was hit by a sudden surge of sorrow. Even his own grandmother was helping an outsider, while he was being left to fend for himself. What else could he do?

He could only surrender the position of the Acting Sect Master over to Nie Li!



He had done so much! So why was fate so unfair to him!

Nie Li’s eyes fell on Long Tianming as the corner of his mouth rose to a smile. According to the trajectory of his previous life, once Long Tianming took the Acting Sect Master’s position, he’d push the Divine Feathers Sect to the abyss of ruin. But now, in this life, Nie Li wasn’t going to let that happen!

No matter how scheming Long Tianming was, how could he possibly compete against Nie Li, who had experienced two lifetimes?



Nie Li’s resources were more than enough to crush Long Tianming beneath his feet!



Once Nie Li became the Acting Sect Master, not even Long Tianming would be able to threaten him!

What Nie Li was concerned with wasn’t some lackey like Long Tianming — it was the entire Demon God’s Sect!

Nie Li looked towards the five Hierarchs and cupped his hands. “Many thanks to the support of the Hierarchs. If I become the Sect Master, then the Divine Feathers Sect will definitely gain more Martial Ancestor Realms! And I will definitely lead the sect towards true glory!”

The five Hierarchs couldn’t help smiling and nodding at Nie Li’s words. They firmly believed that he could achieve those claims.



Long Tianming widened his eyes and lost control of his laughter. “What basis do you have to say that you can take the position of the Sect Master? What makes you think you could lead the Divine Feathers Sect to glory? Who doesn’t know how to spout pretty words? Who’d believe your crap!”



“Long Tianming, you’re too impudent!” Hierarch Martialsky deeply rebuked.

Long Tianming struggled along with his unwillingness to admit defeat. “Sect Master, I only wish for you not to be deceived by this vile person!”

Nie Li, however, smiled as he looked at Long Tianming. It didn’t matter how hard Long Tianming struggled; it was futile! All five Hierarchs were already on Nie Li’s side. Even if Nie Li wanted to quit the position, the five Hierarchs would be begging for him to return.

Long Tianming still couldn’t understand that. He thought Nie Li had only relied on flowery words to get the position.

How could Long Tianming possibly guess that Nie Li had bought the five Hierarchs with a large quantity of elixirs? Each of the Hierarchs had experienced leaps and bounds in their cultivation upon taking those elixirs. How could they possibly let Nie Li go after that?

Forget about Acting Sect Master, Hierarch Martialsky would’ve even handed over the Sect Master’s position! Hierarch Martialsky couldn’t be more eager to retire and become a care-free Grand Elder!

Furthermore, Nie Li had so many Dao of Dragon Realm experts under his command. Those were already sufficient to prove Nie Li’s strength, so what else would they have to worry about?

Hierarch Linglong coldly snorted, “Long Tianming has no respect for his elders. All positions and status are to be revoked and he is sentenced to house arrest for ten months to ponder over his mistakes!”



Hierarch Linglong’s words thoroughly severed all of Long Tianming’s hopes.

“No! How is this possible! How could I lose!” Long Tianming nearly went crazy. Just as the Acting Sect Master’s position was about to land in his hands, it was snatched away in an instant. That drop in elevation drove Long Tianming thoroughly insane.

Several Dao of Dragon Realm experts of the Dragonseal Family restrained Long Tianming and flew him away. What awaited Long Tianming was nothing but a sealed, icy-cold chamber.

The experts of the Divine Feathers Sect exchanged looks. None of them had expected such a conclusion. None of them knew much about Nie Li, and while they weren’t paying attention, he’d casually strolled up and taken the position of Acting Sect Master. The conclusion had been determined; it’d be unwise for any of them to challenge it.



“I, Martialsky, formally announce that I will be withdrawing to behind the scenes. The Sect Master’s position of the Divine Feathers Sect will go to Nie Li!” Hierarch Martialsky’s voice resonated in the ears of every disciple.

Skipped Acting Sect Master and straight to Sect Master?

Did something like that really just happen?

Wasn’t that simply too strange?



However, the Sect Master’s words held enormous weight and there weren’t any objections from the four other Hierarchs. If anyone else objected, wouldn’t they simply be asking for death?

“We pay our respects to Sect Master Nie!”

“Pay our respects to Sect Master Nie!”

The disciples of the Divine Feathers Sect all knelt towards Nie Li.

Nie Li raise his head towards the sky. Hierarch Martialsky’s actions were only meant to express goodwill towards Nie Li. But even so, Nie Li accepted it.



“From today on, I, Nie Li will watch over the Divine Feathers Sect. In a month, I will rewrite the rules of our sect. All disciples are to heed my orders. I, Nie Li, swear to take the Divine Feathers Sect towards glory!” Nie Li’s voice resounded throughout the Divine Feathers Sect.

“Sect Master Nie…”

“Sect Master Nie…” The howling voices of Divine Feathers Sect disciples reverberated throughout the sky.





Chapter 443: Sealed


The Divine Feather’s Sect’s next few days were occupied by a grand ceremony: the inauguration of the Sect Master.

The Divine Feathers Sect was extremely lively.

However, there were still quite a few disciples who weren’t happy with the fact that Nie Li had become the Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect. He was someone who had so little foundation that almost no one had ever heard of him. But he’d abruptly risen to the Sect Master’s seat anyways. Therefore, they still held reservations in their hearts.

On what basis?

Even Situ Beiyan was more suitable than Nie Li.

However, the five Hierarchs had already proclaimed it so. Ordinary elders, deacons, and disciples held no power over those words; therefore, they could only accept the decision and repress their unhappiness. They would wait and see how Nie Li would rule the massive Divine Feathers Sect as Sect Master.

Right after Nie Li ascended to the position of Sect Master, one piece of news rapidly made its way through the Divine Feathers Sect.

Each Divine Feathers Sect disciple was to receive ten spiritual elixirs targeted to their cultivation levels. Taking a single elixir would be enough for them to step into the Heavenly Star Realm. For those above the Heavenly Star Realm, a single elixir would allow them to leap several stages in cultivation.

Aside from that, each Heavenly Axis Realm disciple would receive a Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirit of Extraordinary-level growth rate. As for Dao of Dragon Realm experts, each person would receive a Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirit of God-level growth rate.

The entire Divine Feathers Sect boiled over in an instant.

After a few disciples took the spiritual elixirs, their cultivation instantly soared by leaps and bounds. The bottlenecks that they’d reached were passed in an instant. Others managed to break through to a whole different realm. The medicinal effects of the spiritual elixirs were simply too astonishing. Furthermore, Nie Li had also provided the sect with several hundred God-level Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirits. The power of the Divine Feathers Sect instantly soared to never before seen heights.

These acts had shut the mouths of the gossipers. Everyone had thoroughly been convinced by Nie Li.



Regardless of Nie Li’s moral character, it was fine as long as he had wealth and resources!

If anyone else had become Sect Master, could they have done the same?

The Divine Feathers Sect had been the weakest among all major sects, and its disciples were often be bullied by the demonic sects. There were several times when the sect had fallen into a crisis. But now, the Demon God’s Sect was more than welcome to try!



The Divine Feathers Sect would definitely make the Demon God’s Sect regret their decisions!

The experts of the Divine Feathers Sect were rolling up their sleeves. Every last one of them was ready and eager to give the Demon God’s Sect one hell of a beating. However, Nie Li had passed another order: The sect was to be sealed. No one was to leave and no one was to enter. All disciples were ordered to focus on cultivating.

Those who’d grown three stages were given another spiritual elixir. Those who’d broken through a major realm were given another ten spiritual elixirs. If someone broke through the Heavenly Axis Realm, they’d get an Extraordinary-growth rate Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirit. Those who’d broken through to the Dao of Dragon Realm were given three sacred elixirs and a God-level Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirit.

Strict investigations were carried out internally. Anyone who had enemy contacts would be killed.

The Divine Feathers Sect was thrown into disarray, yet again, at that news. By now, everyone was well-aware of the spiritual elixir’s effects. At first, they thought that those ten elixirs would be it; they never expected Nie Li to declare such a shocking reward for cultivation success. How could they not pour all their energy into cultivating?

“The elixirs that the Sect Master handed out… I wonder exactly what kind of elixirs they are?”

“Who knows? Long live the Sect Master and may he unify the world1!”

“From this day forward, I am the Sect Master’s to command. If he tells me to go south, you’ll never see me heading north!”

The disciples of the Divine Feathers Sect were all sunk into ecstasy. Everyone was cultivating, anytime, anywhere, for fear that they’d be left behind by the others.

The gates of the Divine Feathers Sect were tightly sealed. The spies who’d infiltrated the sect were uprooted. The outside world suddenly lost all contact with the Divine Feathers Sect. No one knew what the Divine Feathers Sect might be planning.

Various demonic sects sent people to investigate, but none returned with new information.

Sect Master’s Mansion

Lu Piao, Gu Bei, and the others were all gathered, in addition to almost all of the elite disciples of the sect. Situ Beiyan, Gu Lan, and the rest included had all accepted Nie Li willingly.

If you only counted the numbers of elites gathered at Nie Li’s side, there would be somewhere around five or six hundred.

Lu Piao began his report. “Nie Li, I did what you instructed. I sent a hundred Dao of Dragon Realm experts to Du Ze, an two hundred to Ning’er and Ziyun…” Under Nie Li’s orders, Lu Piao had sent those people along with many spiritual elixirs, sacred elixirs, and Extraordinary growth rate Dragon Bloodline Demon Spirits. They wanted their friends to raise their strengths as quickly as possible.

Nie Li’s forces will be in all of the major sects.

Nie Li looked at everyone and asked, “How is your cultivation going?”

Gu Bei excitedly replied, “Your sacred elixirs are too powerful. We’ve all broken through to Dao of Dragon Realm.”

Li Xingyun looked at Nie Li and asked, “Nie Li, when are you going to move against the Demon God’s Sect?”

Nie Li faked a surprise, but a smile showed itself at the corner of his lips. “Move against the Demon God’s Sect? When did I ever say that?”

Li Xingyun smiled. “We’ve had a lot of friction with them for the past few years. They’re always thinking about how to exterminate us. Now that our sect has grown stronger, how could we possibly tolerate them?”

Everyone looked at Nie Li, waiting for his response. They’d been trying hard to restrain themselves, but their hearts were on the verge of giving in.

Nie Li calmly and unhurriedly replied, “Why is everyone so anxious? Our Divine Feathers Sect is a peace-loving sect. If the Demon God’s sect doesn’t move against us, then we won’t move against them. All disciples are to remain in the sect. As long as the Demon God’s Sect doesn’t offend us, we won’t be the first to move. First, we’ll stay sealed for five years, then we’ll see!”

Everyone heard Nie Li’s words and thought them over. Then, they understood.

Nie Li was making quite a vicious move!

Nie Li had a large supply of sacred and spiritual elixirs; he could nurture large numbers of experts at an insane pace. In five years, the entire Divine Feathers Sect would probably only consist of Dao of Dragon Realm experts. There might even be quite a few Martial Ancestor Realms by then! Furthermore, Nie Li’s position within the Divine Feathers Sect would be as steady as Mt. Tai, once all of the disciples accepted him without a shadow of a doubt.

When that time comes, the Demon God’s Sect’s desire to win against them would be nothing more than a pipe dream. The moment the Demon God’s Sect decided to start a war, the Divine Feathers Sect would make sure that they wouldn’t even have time to cry.

Time was becoming even more precious for the Divine Feathers Sect!

The entire Divine Feathers Sect began its method of sealed-up cultivation.

Aside from cultivating his [Heavenly God] cultivation technique, Nie Li also imparted powerful techniques to these elites. These techniques would allow them to reach the pinnacle of cultivation. In terms of talent, none of them were inferior to Nie Li.

A powerful force was beginning to emerge in the Draconic Ruins Realm, but the other major sects were still entirely unaware.

* * *



In ancient China, “long live the emperor!” was considered the proper way to greet the emperor himself. This is also a reference to the first emperor of China, Qin Shihuang. Chinese history books described him as a general who “unified the world” by conquering all the smaller countries on the east coast of mainland Asia, thereby establishing China.





Chapter 444: Sealed


Six months later

The entire Divine Feathers Sect was as calm as it used to be. Many Deity Root in the surrounding Deity’s Lake had already been taken by Nie Li and placed in his Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting.

Right now, in the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting, already had an extremely spectacular scenery. The amount of spiritual stones produced every day was already sky high.

Under Nie Li’s manipulation, the Divine Feathers Sect started purchasing all sorts of artifacts, dragon-blooded demon spirits, as well as all sorts of items that could boost the growth of cultivation in the Draconic Ruins Realm.

Nearly all of the merchants within the Draconic Ruins Realm were gathering all sorts of treasures for the Divine Feathers Sect.

In an instant, the Divine Feathers Sect became an extremely mysterious existence. With its sect doors sealed, there were basically no disciples seen. Even the other sects couldn’t obtain any news regarding the Divine Feathers Sect. Batches and batches of treasures were purchased by Divine Feathers Sect and transported into the sect. No one knew why the Divine Feathers Sect wanted to buy those things and, at the same time, they didn’t know how the Divine Feathers Sect was able to gain such a frightening amount of wealth.

In the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting, Nie Li brought a group of trusted disciples to cultivate.

Right now, Nie Li’s cultivation had already reached 3-stage Dao of Dragon Realm. Among the disciples that sat down, the amount of disciples that had reached Dao of Dragon Realm amounted to over tens of thousands in numbers. Many of them were already trying their luck at the Martial Ancestor Realm.

The effects from the sacred medicine, along with the rich spiritual energy here, as well as help from all the various treasures and massive amounts of spiritual stones, their cultivation speed became frightening fast.

Compared to Nie Li’s cultivating speed, Yu Yan and Jindan’s was even more shocking. Yu Yan had been insanely absorbing the spiritual energy in the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting and, after she underwent three mystical transformations, she had already reach 3-stage of the Martial Ancestor Realm. The surging flames around her made Nie Li gasp in amazement.

Jindan was even more frightening. Heaven knows how much spiritual stone essences that glutton devoured. Its body constantly grew larger and right now, it already possessed a height of five to six meters, a colossus monster. What’s even more frightening was that, as this fella grew larger in size, its appetite also constantly increased.

The Power of Laws in this fella’s body was surging violently, incomprehensible. Even Nie Li didn’t know the exact strength this guy possessed. Its body was a golden colour, filled with scales. Vaguely, there were some similarities with a dragon.

Fortunately, as this guy grew, the bond between it and Nie Li also grew deeper. Therefore, Nie Li didn’t worry about not being able to control it.

Since the Big Five have taken those newly refined sacred medicines from me, I wonder how far their cultivation has advanced? Nie Li pondered inwardly. Within this short period of time, the Big Five were still the pillars of the Divine Feathers Sect, guardians of the sect. Only with their strength increased, could Divine Feathers Sect develop even further.

“Nie Li, Du Ze and Ning’er’s letters!” Lu Piao flew over in excitement.

Taking the letters from Lu Piao, Nie Li opened them and took a look at them. Immediately, the corner of his mouth revealed a gratified smile.



“How are they?” Lu Piao asked in curiosity.

“They’re doing pretty well!” Nie Li smiled.

“That’s for sure. With so many good items and your full support, even I could become the leader of those sects!” Lu Piao flung his mouth to the side.

Nie Li couldn’t help laughing. Recently, Lu Piao was feeling impatient about staying in the Divine Feathers Sect and started to get a little restless, but was suppressed by Nie Li. Lu Piao wanted to take a look at the other sects, but was ordered to remain in the Divine Feathers Sect by Nie Li.



In the letters, Nie Li knew of Ziyun, Ning’er, Du Ze and the rest’s situation. In the Heavenly Note Sect, due to Ziyun’s shocking talent, she had already become the Sect Master’s most prideful disciple. She’s also the best candidate for the next Sect Master’s position. Although Ning’er wasn’t the candidate for Sect Master, she had gathered a group of experts and had become an unmovable and enormous force in the Heavenly Note Sect.



In the Phaseless Sect, although Du Ze did not reveal himself much, he was also in control of a powerful force in secret.

The same goes for the rest.

Just like what Lu Piao had said. The medicine, all sorts of treasures and large amounts of experts that Nie Li had given Ziyun, Ning’er, Du Ze and the rest, with every single one of them being elites among others and extremely intelligent, how could they not be able to stir anything?



Therefore, every single one of them were extremely influential within their own sects.

With the support of his friends, he’d be able to move faster to his target.

“How much long before we’re allowed to go out and reveal our true strength to the outside world?” Lu Piao asked in depression.

Hearing his words, Nie Li lightly smiled and reply, “It won’t be too long. You’d better go and cultivate!”

“Okay then, that’s what you’ve said. The day when Divine Feathers Sect is opened, I want to lead a group of brothers and flaunt our strength to the Demon God’s Sect and those Demonic Sects!” Lu Piao said in excitement.



“Save it, the elders and Sect Masters in those sects are all Martial Ancestor Realm experts.” Nie Li couldn’t help rolling his eye at Lu Piao.

“Rest assured, I’ll be able to try my luck at Martial Ancestor Realm soon!” Lu Piao said in confidence. Truth was, the sacred medicines that was refined by Nie Li were simply too powerful and allowed his strength to rise rapidly. So how would he be far away from Martial Ancestor Realm?

Hearing Lu Piao’s words, Nie Li couldn’t help showing a light smile. Indeed, cultivating to Martial Ancestor Realm wasn’t anything difficult. As long as they were sealed for a year, there would be many Martial Ancestor Realm experts appearing in the Divine Feathers Sect. They, as well, will also step into the Martial Ancestor Realm.



However, Martial Ancestor Realm wasn’t the end point.

Their target was to deal with the Sage Emperor!

If the Demon God’s Sect was destroyed, it might alarm the Sage Emperor!



Recalling the death of his Master, Ying Yueru, Nie Li couldn’t help clenching his fists tightly. The grudges of the previous lifetime, as well as the current lifetime, he will definitely settle them!

While Nie Li and the rest were secluded, a group of people slowly arrived at the gates of the Divine Feathers Sect.



This group of people amounted to over three hundred and, among them, there were dozens of Dao of Dragon Realm experts. The one leading them was a white-clothed male, who was roughly in his twenties. His features were handsome and, although he was a little thin, the demeanor that was given off by him wasn’t something that could be underestimated.

A Dao of Dragon Realm expert landed beside that man as he raised his head, looking at the sealed door of the Divine Feathers Sect and said with a faint smile, “Young Master, this is the door of the Divine Feathers Sect. Should I call out to them?”

“Yan San, it’s still the mid of the year, why is the doors of the Divine Feathers Sect sealed tight?” The white-clothed youth said with his brows slightly furrowed.

“Reporting back to Young Master, I’ve no idea what’s going on with the Divine Feathers Sect. There might probably be some internal turmoil happening within the Sect. The Divine Feathers Sect has already been sealed for six months and there hasn’t been any news from the Divine Feathers Sect at all. According to our guesses, a Martial Ancestor Realm expert might have passed away, which shook the entire foundation of the Sect and therefore, had them seal themselves off!” That Dao of Dragon Realm expert named Yan San reported back as he bowed.





Chapter 445: Subsidiary Sect


That white-clothed male had his brows tightly knitted together. His name is Ling Kong, Young Sect Master of the Lingyun Sect.

Although the Lingyun Sect couldn’t be compared to powerful sects like the Divine Feathers Sect, it also possessed quite a reputation with one Martial Ancestor Realm overseeing the sect.

The Lingyun Sect could be considered a Subsidiary Sect to the Divine Feathers Sect. Except with the declining of the Divine Feathers Sect these years, the subsidiary relationship became unstable. It wasn’t the Lingyun Sect wanting to betray them, but because of the Divine Feathers Sect’s weak influence, the land of the Lingyun Sect was constantly invaded and occupied by the Demon God’s Sect. Therefore, the Lingyun Sect wanted to find a bigger patron to prevent themselves from being devoured by the Demon God’s Sect.

It was only due to the sensitivity of this issue that the Lingyun Sect did not mention this to the Divine Feathers Sect.

Looking at the tightly sealed doors of the Divine Feathers Sect, Ling Kong couldn’t help sighing inwardly. In this period of time, the Lingyun Sect has been in crisis. Originally, they wanted to seek aid from the Divine Feathers Sect but, looking at it now, the Divine Feathers Sect itself was powerless to defend themselves. This caused his heart to be in deep worry.

“Yan San, pass over our Notice of Visit!” said Ling Kong.

“Yes!” Yan San replied respectfully as he walked towards the door and handed over a Notice of Visit to one of the disciples that was guarding the gate.

The disciple glanced at Ling Kong and his group and said, “Wait here, I’ll ask for instructions from our Sect Master.”



“It’s been half a year since we, Lingyun Sect have paid a visit to the Divine Feathers Sect. I wonder how is Sect Master Situ’s situation?” Yan San smiled as he tried to get information.

“Oh, you guys might not know about it, but Sect Master Situ has already passed the Sect Master’s seat to our new Sect Master!” The disciple lightly smiled.



Hearing the disciple’s words, Ling Kong’s heart jumped for a moment and enquired, “I wonder, what’s the name of this new Sect Master?”

“Sect Master Nie Li is our newly-appointed Sect Master!” the disciple said as he lightly smiled. He wanted to tell others how powerful their newly-appointed Sect Master was. Under Sect Master Nie Li’s leadership, the Divine Feathers Sect’s strength had already reached a new frightening height. However, due to the warnings from the Elders in the sect, he didn’t dare to reveal much.

“Oh!” Ling Kong couldn’t help sighing in his heart. It seems like the times have changed. They actually allowed a nameless guy to ascend to the Sect Master’s position. That lost strength of theirs must have been severe, no wonder the doors of the sect were tightly shut now.



“Wait here, I’ll report back to the Sect Master!” The disciple replied and hastily ran off.

Yan San asked towards Ling Kong, “Young Sect Master, what should we do now?”

After pondering for a brief moment, Ling Kong’s eyes flashed across bright rays of light as he replied, “Later, when we see the new Sect Master, don’t say that we’re here to ask for help. Tell them that we’re here for a marriage proposal!”

“A marriage proposal?” Yan San was stunned for a brief moment.

“Correct, Long Yuyin of the Dragonseal Family!” Ling Kong continued as he nodded his head.



After a brief moment of pondering, Yan San’s eyes lit up, “Young Sect Master is smart. If you’re able to take Long Yuyin as your wife, it’s the same as allying ourselves with the Divine Feathers Sect. We’ll still be able to request reinforcements elsewhere, that’s killing two birds with one stone!”



“Yeah.” Ling Kong nodded. Looking at the towering gate, aside from these intentions, there’s still another reason. After the banquet from before, ever since he took a glance at Long Yuyin, she had always been on his mind. Her beautiful face would appear in his mind from time to time.

Originally, because of how powerful the Divine Feathers Sect and the Dragonseal Family were, he didn’t even dare to think about it. But now, after this thought had risen in his mind, it could no longer be stopped.

A brief moment later, that Divine Feathers Sect’s disciple came out and lightly cupped his hands towards Ling Kong and his group. “On Sect Master’s request, please enter!”

“Thank you for your trouble.” Ling Kong appeared elegant and graceful as he replied with etiquette.

Divine Feathers Sect, Main Hall of the Sect



Nie Li sat at the seat of honor in the Main Hall. He was calmly seated as of this moment and his aura had already fused with his surroundings.

In the gigantic hall, there was only Li Xingyun, Lu Piao, Gu Bei and dozen people present.



When Ling Kong and his group came in, his gaze fell onto Nie Li’s group and his heart went cold.

Nie Li and his group was so young, how could they obtain such a high position in the Divine Feathers Sect? This caused his heart to be puzzled. Could it be that in the Divine Feathers Sect, there wasn’t any experts overseeing them? What made him even more surprised was that, although Nie Li was extremely young, his strength wasn’t that simple. He should possess the strength of Dao of Dragon Realm.

However, to have a Dao of Dragon Realm oversee the sect as Sect Master, where did the Martial Ancestor Realm experts of the Divine Feathers Sect go?



Could it be that all the Martial Ancestor Realm experts of the Divine Feathers Sect have…

This thought frightened the cold sweat out of Ling Kong. If that’s the case, then the sealing of Divine Feathers Sect’s doors could be understood.



“This is the Young Sect Master of the Lingyun Sect!” Nie Li’s gaze fell onto Ling Kong. He already fully understood the situation of the Lingyun Sect. Right now, things were very different in the Divine Feathers Sect. Just when they’re planning to act as needed, Ling Kong made an unexpected arrival.

Ling Kong’s gaze fell onto a beautiful girl among the crowd and his gaze suddenly lit up. That girl was the girl that had been in his mind, Long Yuyin.

The current Long Yuyin appeared even more beautiful compared to before. She no longer had her old cold demeanor, but a warm look. Her every movement carried boundless charm and her fascinating figure was endlessly attractive.

Ling Kong felt as though his gaze could no longer shift away.



“Hey, you from the Lingyun Sect, why have you come here? If you have any rubbish, say it quick. Don’t waste our time here!” Lu Piao cast his mouth to one side as he appeared extremely insolent. He was told to do so by Nie Li, although he didn’t know why Nie Li wanted him to be rude, he still believes that Nie Li definitely had his own reasons!

“Aren’t you guys a little too rude?!” Yan San frowned his brows for a brief moment. Just when he was about to step forth, he was stopped by Ling Kong.



Ling Kong cupped his hands towards Nie Li and appeared with elegance. He did not place Lu Piao’s words in his heart at all. “It’s been half a year since my last visit to the Divine Feathers Sect. I wonder how is Old Sect Master’s situation? To be able to have my first meeting with Sect Master Nie Li, it’s my pleasure. We’ve come with a request in our visit to the Divine Feathers Sect.” Ling Kong examined Nie Li. Nie Li gave him a feeling of being deep, making it impossible to see through him.

Lu Piao being hot-headed was clearly instructed by Nie Li. What’s Nie Li’s intentions?

“Oh? What is it that caused Young Sect Master Ling to make a trip over personally? My brother, Lu Piao was a little rude with his words, please pardon him for that!” Nie Li lightly laughed.



“It’s like this, our Lingyun Sect and Divine Feathers Sect have always been good allies…” Just when Ling Kong was about to continue further, he was interrupted by Nie Li with a wave of his hand.

“Young Sect Master Ling, there’s a point that I have to correct. The Lingyun Sect has always been a Subsidiary Sect to the Divine Feathers Sect.” Nie Li lightly smiled as he looked at Ling Kong, a sharpness flashing within his eyes.

Ling Kong lightly frowned. Nie Li’s words were extremely sharp. If the Divine Feathers Sect had weakened, he definitely wouldn’t dare to speak of such words. Or is Nie Li trying to bluff?





Chapter 446: Paid in Blood and Sweat


Several servants stood on the sidelines, wanting to speak, but were stopped by Ling Kong. He then lightly smiled and said, “The Lingyun Sect is, indeed, a Subsidiary Sect of the Divine Feathers Sect.”

Nie Li smiled and nodded. So Ling Kong could still keep his composure. Nie Li lightly smiled as he faintly guessed Ling Kong’s intentions for visiting.

The Divine Feathers Sect had been closed off for so long that the outside world was had guessed that the Divine Feathers Sect are probably close to dying. So of course, it wasn’t surprising for the Lingyun Sect to have the same mindset.

After all, Sects like the Lingyun Sect weren’t powerful enough to survive in the Draconic Ruins Realm without a patron.

The Divine Feathers Sect had been closed off for long enough that their strength was entirely different from before. It was time for them show show a bit of their cutting edge. As the Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect, Nie Li had to keep a certain air about himself.

Ling Kong cupped his hands towards Nie Li. “Ling Kong’s trip to the Divine Feathers Sect is for a request.”

“Oh? I wonder what kind of request the Young Sect Master Ling has of me?” Nie Li lightly smiled.

“It’s like this. When Ling Kong first came to the Divine Feathers Sect, I caught a glimpse of a certain lady. When I returned, I kept thinking of her, unable to get her out of my mind. My trip to the Divine Feathers Sect came with the intent to propose a marriage.” Ling Kong said with his hands cupped.

“Oh? I wonder which lady made the Young Sect Master Ling fall in love with her?” Nie Li lightly smiled.

Lu Piao mumbled a soft sneer. “It’s as they say, ‘beware of suspicious folks bearing gifts; they’re sure to be ill-intentioned’. How could my beautiful Divine Feather Sect ladies be given to you? We’d rather keep the goods within the family. You can come steal money from the Divine Feathers Sect, but women, no way!”

Nie Li couldn’t help smiling at Lu Piao’s words.

Ling Kong didn’t hear Lu Piao’s comments as he lightly cupped his hands and continued, “Sect Master Nie, the one who I wish to propose to is Long Yuyin of the Dragonseal Family.”

Lu Piao coldly snorted again at Ling Kong’s words. “A toad trying to get a taste of the swan. As someone yearning after Long Yuyin, why don’t you first take a look in the mirror and see if you’re fit?” Even though Long Yuyin was still unmarried, her relationship with Nie Li was clear. It’s long been rumored that Long Yuyin was one of Nie Li’s women. This fellow must be seeking death if he’s trying to snatch my brother’s woman.

Ling Kong’s face sank as he heard Lu Piao’s words. He cupped his hands, once again, towards Nie Li, “Sect Master Nie, I wonder who this person is, to actually be so impudent in a place like this?!”

Nie Li calmly smiled towards Ling Kong. “He’s my brother, Lu Piao.”

“Sect Master Nie, as your brother, isn’t he being too rude?!” Ling Kong said in a solemn voice. He was clearly enraged.

A servant angrily cried, “Young Sect Master, if we’d known that the Divine Feathers Sect was being ruled by such people, we wouldn’t have come. Why shouldn’t the Lingyun Sect break away from the Divine Feathers Sect?”

Even back then, they’d been treated with courtesy. Since when was such behaviour acceptable?

Ling Kong extended a hand to stopped those servants. “Enough! Back down!”

“Yes!” The servant bowed and backed away, indignance clearly written on his face.

Lu Piao coldly smiled. Of course he realised that Ling Kong was only putting up a show. Hypocritical to the extreme.

Ling Kong looked at Nie Li and continued, “The Lingyun Sect has always been a Subsidiary Sect to the Divine Feathers Sect. We adhere strictly to the rules. When we embarked upon this trip, we had no idea that the Divine Feathers Sect had already chosen a new Sect Master. It seems that Sect Master Nie isn’t very friendly with our Lingyun Sect!”

Nie Li faintly smiled and replied to Ling Kong, “Young Sect Master Ling is being too serious. Being generous towards others has always been a tradition of our Divine Feathers Sect. You’re the Young Sect Master of the Lingyun Sect, but after entering the grounds of my Divine Feathers Sect, you didn’t seem to show much etiquette. Upon seeing the Sect Master of the Main Sect, you didn’t bow in salute. Is it our Divine Feathers Sect that’s being unfriendly or is it the Lingyun Sect that’s being rude?”

“That…” Ling Kong’s facial expression became somewhat embarrassed.

It was true. Upon seeing the Sect Master of the Divine Feathers Sect, they were required to bow in salute. Back when Hierarch Martialsky led the Divine Feathers Sect, Ling Kong had no problems with bowing. But now, the Sect Master was Nie Li, who was even younger than himself. How could he bow to someone like that?1

“Haha!” Nie Li waved his hand with a smile and said, “Young Sect Master Ling, no matter what happens, the Lingyun Sect will always be a Subsidiary Sect to our Divine Feathers Sect. I’ve only recently risen to this position, so it’s not strange that Young Sect Master Ling still sees me as an outsider. I don’t want to stay on this topic any longer. Recently, we’ve been preparing to start a war with the Demon God’s Sect and we will require the assistance of the Lingyun Sect. I wonder what Young Sect Master Ling’s opinion is on the matter?”

“Starting a war with the Demon God’s Sect? Are you guys are insane?” Ling Kong looked at Nie Li in shock. Previously, when Hierarch Martialsky was in control, the Divine Feathers Sect was too weak in comparison to the Demon God’s Sect. Right now, Ling Kong had no idea where Hierarch Martialsky had gone off to. And Nie Li actually wanted to lead the Divine Feathers Sect against the Demon God’s Sect?

“Hahaha.” Nie Li laughed three times and continued, “Of course, I’m not insane.”

Nie Li looked at Ling Kong and continued, “I wonder if Young Sect Master Ling is interested in taking a stroll around the Divine Feathers Sect with me?”

Ling Kong’s gaze went dark and dull as he glanced at Nie Li and cupped his hands. “Then, I’ll accept your offer!”

“Young Sect Master Ling, if you please!” Nie Li smiled.

They exited the Main Hall in a group, with Ling Kong following behind Nie Li’s entourage, with puzzlement in his eyes.

The several servants that followed behind Ling Kong were exchanging glances with each other.

“What’s Sect Master Nie trying to do?”

“Who knows?!” Several servants discussed in soft voices.

Under Nie Li’s lead, their group passed through a patch of dense forest.

The forest was shrouded in clouds and mist. Disciples sat everywhere, cultivating. There must have been few hundreds of them, sitting on tree branches or boulders. The sheer density of spiritual energy was extremely shocking. It must have been several dozens or even hundreds of times greater than outside!

When the disciples saw Nie Li’s party, they all stood and bowed in deep respect.

“Sect Master!”

“Sect Master!”

All kinds of greetings rang from around them!

“En!” Nie Li lightly nodded and continued forward.

The servants behind Ling Kong discussed in soft tones.

“These people seem to be Dao of Dragon Realm experts!”

“The Divine Feathers Sect can’t be putting on a show by arranging those people here, right? With so few Dao of Dragon Realm experts, what is there to flaunt? Our Lingyun Sect has them too!”

“Look over there!” One servant pointed towards an area in the forest.

“That should be an array. It seems to have been laid out with spiritual stone essence! They actually used spiritual stone essences to lay out an array! The Divine Feathers Sect must have paid in blood and sweat!”

Nie Li lightly smiled at the servants’ conversations. Lu Piao and co. only sneered without saying a word. From Lu Piao’s point of view, the Divine Feathers Sect was strong enough to not need the Lingyun Sect at all. There was no need for Nie Li to bring them here!

* * *



In ancient China, juniors always bow to their seniors. The other way around is almost entirely unheard of.





Chapter 447: Provoking the Almighty


They followed the long and narrow path through the deep forest before the trees opened up to a different scene.

This was a long stretch of unbroken mountains blanketed with tall trees. Tens of thousands of Dao of Dragon Realm auras surged and formed a massive, frightening array.

A majestic aura emanated from them.

It was like a powerful tidal wave had crashed down on their heads, as though it could devour anything at anytime.

Even if a Martial Ancestor Realm expert would be killed the instant they entered such a frightening array.

The representatives of the Lingyun Sect dumbfoundedly stared upon this scene — especially Ling Kong. Just what was going on? Why were there so many Dao of Dragon Realm experts in the Divine Feathers Sect?

For a small sect like the Lingyun Sect, they’d be lucky to have ten or twenty Dao of Dragon Realm experts. For something the size of the Divine Feathers Sect, one could expect a few hundred. But right now, the Divine Feathers Sect actually had tens of thousands of them!

Between the auras of the Dao of Dragon Realm experts were the auras of thirteen Martial Ancestor Realm experts.

In the past, the Divine Feathers Sect only had five Martial Ancestor Realm experts. So why were there suddenly eight more?

Before visiting the Divine Feathers Sect, Ling Kong had made his own estimates on the Divine Feathers Sect’s strength. He’d guessed that one of the sect’s critical experts had passed away, and that was why they’d closed their gates. He’d mistakenly believed that the Divine Feathers Sect was growing weaker. It wasn’t until now that he realised that the Divine Feathers Sect was not weakening, but actually strengthening — and that they’d already grown several folds stronger than they’d been before.

The shock he felt was indescribable.

Not until this moment, did Ling Kong understand that Nie Li hadn’t been joking when he said he wanted to start a war with the Demon God’s Sect!

The current Divine Feathers Sect really did have the strength to start a war with the Demon God’s Sect!

Nie Li couldn’t help smiling when he sensed those powerful auras. At first, they only had five Martial Ancestor Realm experts in the Divine Feathers Sect. But thanks to his sacred medicines, many of their pinnacle Dao of Dragon Realm experts had stepped into the Martial Ancestor Realm.

As time passed, more and more Dao of Dragon Realm experts would step into the Martial Ancestor Realm. Eventually, the Divine Feathers Sect would definitely rise to entirely new heights.

The stronger the Divine Feathers Sect became, the closer Nie Li would be to his goal of unifying the entire Draconic Ruins Realm.

That was the only way Nie Li would qualify to confront the Sage Emperor.

Outside of the Divine Feathers Sect, Nie Li had also received news from the other sects; Ziyun, Ning’er, Du Ze, and the rest had began enhancing their influence over their respective sects.

Step by step, Nie Li was slowly becoming the most powerful person in the entire Draconic Ruins Realm.

Nie Li looked at Ling Kong and smiled. “Young Sect Master Ling, I heard that you have feelings for Yuyin. As the Sect Master of Divine Feathers Sect, of course I don’t want to break up a couple. Why don’t I call Yuyin and you can ask for her opinion?”

Ling Kong suddenly felt very awkward. He’d arrived here intending to force a marriage; but now that he’d seen the strength of the Divine Feathers Sect, he suddenly felt that his Lingyun Sect wasn’t even worth a footnote.

And now, would he still dare to bring up the matter? That’s why he felt awkward by Nie Li’s offer. He could hear the small whispers between Lu Piao, Gu Bei and the rest.

Lu Piao said faintly, “Gu Bei, I heard that Long Yuyin has already announced that if the Sect Master doesn’t marry her, then she’d stay single for the rest of her life.”

Gu Bei nodded. “The pride of the Sect Master is a thin road to walk. That’s why he’s still undecided about it.”

Lu Piao faintly said again, “This kid really wants to die. He actually dares to challenge our Sect Master for a woman.”

Ling Kong’s heart trembled as he turned around and saw Nie Li looking at him with a smile that wasn’t quite a smile. Suddenly, the weight on his heart lifted. Regardless of what he chose to do, this subject was a sore spot. It was his fault for suddenly mentioning a marriage, and with Long Yuyin, no less. From Lu Piao and Gu Bei’s whispers, he concluded that Long Yuyin likely already belonged to Nie Li.

Ling Kong felt his scalp tingle.

If this had been the old Divine Feathers Sect, then he wouldn’t have been so afraid. But now, the times have changed and so has the Divine Feathers Sect. Furthermore, Nie Li looked like the type of person who hid knives underneath that smiling face.

Even though Nie Li was acting like he was indifferent, in truth, he might already be enraged.

The moment Divine Feathers Sect ordered this many experts to move, the entire Lingyun Sect would be reduced to ashes.

The current Divine Feathers Sect was a frightening colossus.

Ling Kong immediately cupped his hands. “Sect Master Nie, I didn’t know about the matters between Sect Master Nie and Lady Long…”

Nie Li waved his hand. “Long Yuyin is the Young Miss of the Dragonseal Family and our closest companion. You must ask for her opinion on such a huge matter.”

These past few days, Long Yuyin had been searching desperately for Nie Li, and Nie Li had been having quite a bit of trouble hiding from her. Nie Li was just as troubled without a way to deal with her.

There was already someone else in Nie Li’s heart. Beauty’s favour was always the hardest to bear. If Long Yuyin really got herself tangled up with him, then he figured it’d be hard for him to push her away when the time came.

Ling Kong felt his legs go soft at Nie Li’s words. “Sect Master Nie, forget about the marriage, let’s not mention it anymore. I’ll apologize to Sect Master Nie here.”

Nie Li immediately shook his head. “How can we forget this? What should be mentioned must be mentioned. I’m an open-minded person.”

Ling Kong felt bitter in his heart. He couldn’t understand Nie Li’s intent. He remembered a story from the past. Once upon a time, a Sect Master provoked a member of the Demon God’s Sect and ran to them to offer his apologies. At the time, the Sect Master of the Demon God’s Sect happily accepted his apology. Then, the following day, the offender’s entire sect was massacred!

By making a move on Nie Li’s woman… wasn’t that the same as provoking the almighty? Ling Kong was so scared that he nearly cried out. The more Nie Li acted like he wasn’t bothered, the more afraid Ling Kong became.

Nie Li patted Ling Kong on the shoulder and smiled. “Young Sect Master Ling.”

Ling Kong’s body shook uncontrollably as he asked in a trembling voice, “Sect Master Nie, our Lingyun Sect is definitely the most resolute ally of the Divine Feathers Sect. All Sect Master Nie needs to do is say a word. Even if we must climb bladed mountains or swim fiery seas, our Lingyun Sect will never say a second word.”

“Then the matters with Long Yuyin…” Nie Li continued on the topic.

Ling Kong’s face trembled with fear, “I did not know how important Long Yuyin was to Sect Master Nie. Given the circumstances, Ling Kong definitely wouldn’t dare to have any presumptuous thoughts.”

“But…” Nie Li was stunned for a moment.

“Our entire Lingyun Sect is at Sect Master Nie’s command.”

“Since you guys obey our Divine Feathers Sect’s command, then about joining our war with the Demon God’s Sect…” Nie Li looked at Ling Kong.

Ling Kong felt a bottomless pit of regret open up inside himself. The Demon God’s Sect couldn’t be provoked. But it’d be worst to provoke the Divine Feathers Sect. If Ling Kong rejected Nie Li right now, then who knows whether the Divine Feathers Sect would choose to annihilate their Lingyun Sect? Right now, how could he dare to not agree?





Chapter 448: Life As Such


“No matter what the Sect Master instructs us, our Lingyun Sect will be by your side!” Ling Kong cupped his hands and said respectfully.

Nie Li laughed. “Since Young Master Ling Kong is willing to help us, then it’s even better. As long as the Lingyun Sect follows us, our Divine Feathers Sect will definitely not treat you badly!”

“Thank you, Sect Master Nie!” Ling Kong immediately replied as he bowed. As for how the Divine Feathers Sect treats the Lingyun Sect, he didn’t dare to have any other thoughts. It was already good enough if the Divine Feathers Sect doesn’t deal with them.

“I’ve heard that the Lingyun Sect has encountered some troubles these days.” Nie Li faintly smiled.

“Just some small problems, how could I dare trouble Sect Master Nie?” Ling Kong bitterly smiled.

“Since the Lingyun Sect is a Subsidiary Sect of our Divine Feathers Sect, how can I, Nie Li do nothing and watch?” Nie Li smiled as he patted Ling Kong, “The amount of experts in my Divine Feathers Sect are like clouds in the sky. If I don’t deal with the trouble that our Subsidiary Sect has encountered, how can we convince the masses?”

Nie Li looked at Lu Piao and said, “Lu Piao, bring two Martial Ancestor Realm and five hundred Dao of Dragon Realm pinnacle experts. Deal with the troubles in the Lingyun Sect!”

Hearing Nie Li’s words, Ling Kong was instantly frightened to the point that his legs softened. Two Martial Ancestor Realm level and five hundred Dao of Dragon Realm pinnacle experts. It was more than enough to deal with the entire Lingyun Sect!

“Sect Master Nie, if there’s any place that I had offended you, please forgive me. My Lingyun Sect……” Ling Kong’s face was pale. He had no knowledge about Nie Li. If Nie Li was a man with a big smile and evil intentions, saying that he’ll deal with the trouble in Lingyun Sect and then suddenly turn hostile, wouldn’t that destroy the entire Lingyun Sect?

This kind of thing was too common in the Draconic Ruins Realm. Therefore, how can Ling Kong not be afraid?

Hearing Ling Kong’s words, Nie Li laughed loudly as he patted Ling Kong’s shoulders, “Young Sect Master Ling doesn’t have to be so nervous. Our Divine Feathers Sect is a righteous sect. How can we commit ourselves to destroying other sects? Just that there are many plans that the Divine Feathers Sect has in the future which requires Young Master Ling’s cooperation.”

“Yes, yes, yes. Definitely.” Ling Kong wiped his forehead, which was drenched in cold sweat.

The current Divine Feathers Sect was way too powerful. So powerful to the degree that others would revere it. Ling Kong was worried that if he wasn’t cautious with his words and made Nie Li upset, the entire Lingyun Sect would be done for.

Nie Li took a glance at Lu Piao as he smiled, “Lu Piao, from today on, you’ll be in charge of anything that’s related to the Lingyun Sect. Lead the entire Lingyun Sect towards the Myriad Dao Peak.”

“Okay!” Lu Piao nodded.

Hearing Nie Li’s words, Ling Kong felt bitter in his heart. The Myriad Dao Peak was just a few hundred li[1.Chinese measurement. Roughly 500m - 1li] away from the Divine Feathers Sect. It would take two days, at most, to reach it from the Divine Feathers Sect.

Furthermore, when Nie Li spoke, his tone was extremely firm, not bothering about Ling Kong’s thoughts at all. However, seeing Nie Li’s attitude, the moment Lingyun Sect resists, the consequences would be unthinkable.

Nie Li patted Ling Kong’s shoulders as he lightly smiled, “Young Sect Master Ling, we will soon wage war with the Demon God’s Sect. The Lingyun Sect is also an important link. As long as the Lingyun Sect is moved to the Myriad Dao Peak, our Divine Feathers Sect will be able to back it up. This was all done for the Lingyun Sect’s safety.”

“Many thanks, Sect Master Nie.” Although Ling Kong wasn’t willing in his heart, he could only agree to it.

“Okay, Lu Piao, make some preparations to head out with Young Master Ling!” Said Nie Li.

“Okay.” Lu Piao nodded.

Nie Li took a glance at Lu Piao. He focused his voice and transmitted it over to Lu Piao, “Lu Piao, be cautious on this trip. Although the Lingyun Sect would be intimidated by our strength, they are, after all, a group that goes wherever way the wind blows. They’re not worth putting your trust in.”

Lu Piao transmitted his voice back in response, “Then, why did you still want to rope them in and move them to the Myriad Dao Peak?”

Nie Li lightly smiled, “Rest assured. Even a puny person has his own use. As long as our Divine Feathers Sect remains powerful, the Lingyun Sect won’t be able to rebel. I, naturally, have my own plans to move them to the Myriad Dao Peak.”

Lu Piao smiled. Although there were many times where he couldn’t understand the reason behind Nie Li’s actions, he has absolute trust in Nie Li.

Lu Piao looked at Ling Kong as he said in a cold tone, “Let’s go!”

“Yes, Brother Lu, we will head out immediately. Sect Master Nie, we’ll bid our farewell!” Ling Kong cupped his hands towards Nie Li.

A group of people followed behind Lu Piao as they left.

Several underlings of the Lingyun Sect secretly whispered into Ling Kong’s ears.

“Young Sect Master, are we really going to move the Lingyun Sect to the Myriad Dao Peak? Will the Senior Sect Master agree to it? Furthermore, once we move to the Myriad Dao Peak, that would be the same as being completely under the control of the Divine Feathers Sect!” One of the underling said in soft voice.

Ling Kong’s face was solemn with a trace of rage. After a brief moment, he let out a long sigh. He doesn’t have the slightest thought of confronting the current Divine Feathers Sect. With the Divine Feathers Sect’s strength, annihilating the entire Lingyun Sect was easy. How could he not agree to their demands?

“From now on, no one in the Lingyun Sect is allowed to have any conflicts with the Divine Feathers Sect. Those who disobey this order will be killed!” Ling Kong said solemnly.

In the Draconic Ruins Realm, those with power are sovereigns. Provoking the Divine Feathers Sect was no different then seeking their own deaths!

Ling Kong walked and saw a slender and graceful figure walking over. The surrounding scenery instantly lost its vigor compared to her. It was a beautiful girl with exquisite features. She was as beautiful as an angel. Her expression carried traces of cold pride, but that curvaceous figure contained boundless charm.

That girl was Long Yuyin.

The instant Ling Kong saw Long Yuyin, his eyes lit up. However, a brief moment later, they dulled back down and he gave a ninety degree bow. He was extremely cautious as he walked past Long Yuyin.

Ling Kong was indeed, a tactful person. He’s well aware that he wouldn’t be able to deserve Long Yuyin in this lifetime. Before Long Yuyin, he was not worth mentioning.

Long Yuyin faintly threw a glance as him, as though a stranger had walked past. Thereafter, she continued down her path.

Ling Kong silently walked. He did not turn around to look at Long Yuyin’s silhouette. His eyes were filled with depression. Thereafter, he disappointedly smiled, concentrating his line of sight before him and walked.

That day, when he first came to the Divine Feathers Sect saw her for the first time, he was deeply captivated by her. The first daughter of the Dragonseal Family. This identity was something that he could not hope to reach in his entire lifetime. It was just that he still had that trace of dissatisfaction in his heart.

But at this moment, that trace of dissatisfaction was entirely dispersed from his heart.

“Young Sect Master, you’re not going to say hello to Long Yuyin……?” One of his men asked in dissatisfaction.

Ling Kong sighed, “Life is such, since we’re not fated, why bother? All along, it was always one-sided. The greatest failure in life is to fall in love with someone you cannot hope to match. I should have some self-awareness.” Ling Kong remained silent for a brief moment before laughing. He made some big strides up ahead.

The few underlings exchanged glance and fell into silence. After a brief moment, they all followed up as well.





Chapter 449: Demon Gods Sect


To Ling Kong, the Divine Feathers Sect was like a great mountain bearing down on them, forcing them to heave for air.

No matter what, they couldn’t afford to offend the Divine Feathers Sect. There would be terrifying consequences.

They’d also have to be careful in dealing with Lu Piao, who’d be sent to watch them. If they offended him… well, they’d seen how many Martial Ancestor Realm experts Lu Piao had under him. It was enough to annihilate the whole Lingyun Sect.

Over the next few months, Lu Piao supervised the Lingyun Sect as they moved their entire organisation to the Myriad Dao Peak.

But it wasn’t just the Lingyun Sect—the Divine Feathers Sect had intimidated many other sects into submission.

Right now, the Divine Feathers Sect was a colossal force.

The disciples of the Divine Feathers Sect had never imagined that Nie Li would lead them to such flourishing heights.

Everyone in the Divine Feathers Sect brimmed with confidence. They knew that their sect was worthy of paving the way to righteousness.

Lightning Roar Mountain Range

The main peak towered as a host of smaller islands orbited it in a mysterious array.

A red-scaled, winged-dragon danced at the center in a blaze of flames.

A spectacular palace, complete with gorgeous pavilions, rested upon the peak of the mountain.

A second winged-dragon, larger than the first, spiraled over the palace, its scarlet eyes burning with bright flames.

This was the territory of the Demon God’s Sect.

They’d controlled this territory for several thousands of years.

Their strength was terrifying, without question. The scores of sects nearby all bowed to them, and accepted their place as subsidiaries.

The Demon God’s Sect possessed scores of pinnacle Martial Ancestor Realm experts and thousands more Dao of Dragon Realm experts. No one, regardless of whether they walked the righteous path or the demonic one, dared to provoke the Demon God’s Sect.

A silver-armoured man sat on a throne in the main hall of the Demon God’s Sect. A nebula revolved around him and his majestic aura surged like waves on the Yellow River.

He was the Sect Master of the Demon God’s Sect—Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch.

The Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch was a 7-Stage Martial Ancestor Realm expert, and one of the supreme overlords of the Draconic Ruins Realm.

A subordinate knelt before him and trembled in fear. “Sect Master, we’ve just been informed that Long Tianming’s plans have failed, and that he’s been arrested. We no longer have a clear picture on the Divine Feathers Sect’s current state of affairs, and we still don’t know why they chose such an unknown brat as their Sect Master.”

The Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch slowly opened his eyes. A blaze flashed across his scarlet blood pupils.

“Have you investigated the brat’s background?”

“According to what we’ve obtained so far, he’s from the Tiny World. But we don’t know why the Divine Feathers Sect’s five Martial Ancestors would support such a person.”

“The Divine Feathers Sect has been moving. They sent seven Martial Ancestor Realm experts just to rope in the nearby smaller sects.”

“Seven Martial Ancestor Realm experts?” The Sect Master’s expression turned cold.

A frightening pressure fell over the entire hall.

“Indeed. The Divine Feathers Sect has been closed off for so long and it’s been hard for us to scout inside. When the Divine Feathers Sect finally reopened itself, there was a sudden surge in both the number of Martial Ancestor Realm and Dao of Dragon Realm experts,” that subordinate reported with a trembling voice. He felt the blazing energy above him, as though it would turn him to ash at his slightest hint of carelessness.

“From the Tiny World. Interesting.” the Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch raised his brows.

“The Divine Feathers Sect isn’t alone. We’ve also seen new Martial Ancestor Realm experts in the other major righteous sects, including the Skyblaze and Heavenly Note Sects. They’ve also taken in disciples from the Tiny World. Without a doubt, this must be the result of a cultivation technique from the Tiny World.

“Of the Draconic Ruins Realm’s three thousand smaller realms, the Tiny World is the most mysterious one, since it’s been restricted by a Supreme. Only those born in that realm may enter or leave as they please, while no outsider can step foot inside. In history, there were several supreme experts from the Tiny World, even though they’ve all vanished without a trace. Even still, we can’t underestimate them!” A grey-robed elder said from the sidelines. He was the Blaze Void Warring Hierarch, and a grand elder of the Demon God’s Sect. As a 5-Stage Martial Ancestor Realm expert, his influence ranked just below that of the Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch.

“Send Xuan Mei and her team to investigate the Tiny World. Find out their origins,” the Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch ordered with cold eyes. The Demon God’s Sect had also nurtured its own force in the Tiny World.

“Then, how should we deal with the Divine Feathers Sect?” the Flame Void Warring Hierarch asked the Sect Master.

“So many Martial Ancestor Realm experts have emerged in the Divine Feathers Sect. As time passes, the situation will grow even more unfavorable to our Demon God’s Sect. But we should also keep in mind that the Divine Feathers Sect closed itself off before displaying its strength.They’re saying that they have the confidence to deal with us. If we declare war, I’m afraid we won’t be able to win against them!” the Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch’s voice was calm and unwavering.

“I wonder what ideas the Sect Master has?” the Flame Void Warring Hierarch said with his hands cupped towards the Sect Master.

“The Divine Feathers Sect is free to seal itself away from the world. But now they’ve chosen to display their power—this proves that they’re trying to do something, and urgently so. We’ll investigate first. Furthermore, we must report this to the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land. They’ll definitely send reinforcements. That will save us quite a bit of strength.” the Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch replied with a calm and cold smile.

The Flame Void Warring Hierarch hesitated for a moment then his eyes lit up, “The Sect Master is wise.”

The Demon God’s Sect was publicly pledged to the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land, but in private, they’d been working on expanding their strength. There was a vague intent of competing with the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land.

The Ancestral Demonic Saint Land was the organisation that controlled the major demonic sects and stood above them all.

However, the Flame Spirit Warring Hierarch was the sort of person who refused to serve anyone else—he wanted to be an overlord of a generation. Now that he sat as the Demon God’s Sect’s Sect Master, how could he be willing to bow down to anyone?

However, the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land was simply too powerful for them to handle. Their experts were extremely frightening, and their histories were long and immeasurable. It would be better for them to let the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land deal with the Divine Feathers Sect—in the meantime, the Demon God’s Sect could simply watch and gather information on the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land.

The Ancestral Demonic Saint Land was a terrifying and mysterious existence. Not a single sect dared to content with them.

In the Divine Feathers Sect, Nie Li was deep in his cultivation. The closer he got to the end of the [Heavenly God] Cultivation Technique, the harder it became to cultivate. However, the amount of power he gained with each stage also grew. If you added on all the combat experience from his previous life, and the treasures he now possessed, Nie Li was on par with any Dao of Dragon Realm expert. He could even defend himself against a Martial Ancestor Realm expert. That’s just how strong he was.





Chapter 450: Godslayer Artifact


A majestic aura was constantly being breathed in and out. Nie Li felt surges of powerful auras entering his body and warming his limbs and meridians.

While Nie Li was cultivating, a mysterious energy exploded in the Myriad Miles Rivers and Mountains Painting. Nie Li was startled in his heart as he immediately entered into the painting. He saw a lump of flames blazing in the painting that looked just like the sun.

That powerful energy filled the entire painting.

It was Goddess Yu Yan!

Nie Li looked towards Yu Yan’s direction and saw her tiny body being bathed in the blazing flames. Her clothes have long turned into ashes and her voluptuous figure could be seen in the flames.

Goddess Yu Wan was beautiful and flawless. Any guy who saw her would probably get a sudden shock.

“Nie Li.” Goddess Yu Yan slowly opened her eyes as a smear of blazing fire flashed across her eyes. In her calm eyes, there seemed to be a faint wrath.

“Big Sister Yu Yan, what’s wrong with you?” Nie Li couldn’t help asking. The powerful energy that was being emitted from Goddess Yu Yan made him shocked.

“I’ve recalled it. There are cause and effects in everything!” Goddess Yu Yan raised her head and looked up to the sky.

“What have you recalled?” Nie Li couldn’t help giving pause for a moment, before asking.

Goddess Yu Yan hesitated for a moment, before looking towards Nie Li, “I’ve recalled everything from the previous and present life. I thought that I’d forgotten them, but actually, they were hidden in the depths of my memory all along. Are you willing to make a trip with me back to the Tiny World?”

“Tiny World? But the entrance to the Tiny World hasn’t opened yet, how are we going to go?” Nie Li looked towards Yu Yan as he asked. His gaze swept Yu Yan’s naked body and couldn’t help retracting his gaze awkwardly.

Yu Yan looked at Nie Li, “I can open the seal to the Tiny World. However, that would mean that the Tiny World would be completely open. I’m not sure if it will be fortunate or disastrous.”

Nie Li was filled with astonishment. Yu Yan said that she could completely open the seal towards the Tiny World?

What’s hidden in the Tiny World?

Among the three thousand smaller realms, only the Tiny World was sealed. There must certainly be secret hidden in the Tiny World.

“Although I’m not sure why Big Sister Yu Yan wants to go to the Tiny World for, but since you’ve decided, then I will follow you.” Nie Li said calm and unhurried.

Yu Yan was stunned for an instant before sighing. “Nie Li, thanks. You’re the only one I could trust!”

Yu Yan’s desolate tone touched Nie Li’s heartstrings. In the past, he was all alone. No one could understand the loneliness and helplessness better than him. Luckily, he managed to be reborn and redo everything again. He still has so many friends and relatives.

In this life, let me protect everyone!

Nie Li looked towards Yu Yan, he could sense the sadness in her heart.

The flames on Yu Yan turned into a magnificent gauze as it slowly wrapped her beautiful body. She raised her head and said, “If we’re going back to the tiny World, we have to either wait for the next opening of the Tiny World or to break the Tiny World’s seal. But right now, we’re short on time. We have to find this item.”

Nie Li had no idea what was it that Yu Yan spoke of.

“How should we break the seal to the Tiny World?” Nie Li couldn’t help asking.

“Nie Li, have you heard of the Godslayer Artifact?” Yu Yan looked at Nie Li as she asked.

“The Godslayer Artifact?” Nie Li was stunned for a moment.

“Correct, in this world, there are two Godslayer Artifacts. This two items have existed in this world since ancient times and are extremely powerful. The two Godslayer Artifacts are the Myriad Ancestor Sword and the Sacred Demon Blade.” said Yu Yan.

“The Myriad Ancestor Sword and Sacred Demon Blade? I think I’ve heard of them before!” Nie Li slightly frowned his brows.

“The Myriad Ancestor Sword and Sacred Demon Sword are controlled by the Ancestral God Land and the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land. The two Godslayer Artifacts made the Ancestral God Land and the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land the two most powerful forces, causing them to become official existences.” Yu Yan sighed as she continued, “Except that for a long time now, no one could use the Myriad Ancestor Sword. In a great battle, it was separated into seven pieces, which were separately controlled by the Ancestral God Land, as well as the six righteous sects.”

“Seven pieces?” This was the first time that Nie Li had heard of this story, and he doesn’t know how powerful the Myriad Ancestor Sword was. “Does that mean that the Divine Feathers Sect also has one of its pieces?”

Yu Yan nodded her head, “Correct.”

“Why hasn’t the Big Five mention it before?” Nie Li couldn’t help asking.

“Such treasures are important treasures of the Divine Feathers Sect and, therefore, are heavily concealed in secret. With the strongest Martial Ancestor Realm as its protector. Only when he dies, will he pass it to the next.” said Yu Yan.

“It seems that this treasure is in Hierarch Martialsky’s hands then.” Nie Li nodded as he continued, “But what does it have to do with breaking the Tiny World’s seal?”

“Only the Myriad Ancestor Sword could break the seal on the Tiny World.” Yu Yan answered.

“Why would the Tiny World require such a powerful treasure to break the seal open?” Nie Li couldn’t help voicing his doubts.

“The Tiny World’s seal was formed by a Supreme. In the Tiny World, there’s a treasure even greater than the Godslayer Artifact. It’s called the Temporal Demon Spirit Book. Only if we find this book, can we obtain the chance of defeating the Ancestral Demonic Saint Land. Otherwise, it will be impossible!” Yu Yan said solemnly as she carried on, “This is also the reason why I’m in the Tiny World!”

Temporal Demon Spirit Book?

Nie Li was stunned for a moment. Indeed, the Temporal Demon Spirit Book was extremely powerful. However, Nie Li had no idea where the book disappeared to. Only by destroying the Tiny World’s seal with the Godslayer Artifact, they’ll be able to find the Temporal Demon Spirit Book?

“But where should we go to find the Temporal Demon Spirit Book?” Nie Li couldn’t help asking his question.

“The Temporal Demon Spirit Book is a sacred item, much more powerful then the two Godslayer Artifacts. Because of the Tiny World’s seal, the Temporal Demon Spirit Book vanished without a trace and is nowhere found. If we open the seal of the Tiny World, can we sense the aura of the Temporal Demon Spirit Book.” said Yu Yan.

Nie Li hesitated for a brief moment. The missing book had always been a sore point in his heart. He must find the Temporal Demon Spirit Book in order to have the confidence to confront the Sage Emperor!

The Sage Emperor was too powerful as he had sealed off the Draconic Ruins Realm and was refining it. Add his underlings that have many powerful claws, unless he had absolute confidence, he can’t go head-on with the Sage Emperor!

“If we break open the seal to the Tiny World, wouldn’t the Sage Emperor be a step before us in finding the Temporal Demon Spirit Book?” Nie Li couldn’t help asking. This was also the most important thing that he’s worried about.





Credits





Translator: Thyaeria





Epub: Estevam / dotNOVEL