Chapter 201: I Hear You’re Looking For Me?
Inside the Cave Dwelling of the Ninth Peak of the Spirit Fusion Lineage, Ji Qing was fully merging divinity.
He exchanged for a large amount of divinity.
The goal was to merge ten thousand divinity to reach the “Ten Thousand Dao Realm.”
As a result, while he was fully merging divinity, the Communication Stone began to vibrate.
Ji Qing was not in secluded cultivation.
Merging divinity alone did not require secluded cultivation, so when the Communication Stone vibrated, Ji Qing noticed it immediately.
He took out the Communication Stone to check.
“A Communication Talisman from the Lineage Master…”
Ji Qing’s heart tightened, and he immediately checked the content.
“Hm? The Twelve Lineage Masters are bleeding heavily, seize this opportunity… What is all this?”
Ji Qing’s expression was a bit bewildered.
From the tone of the Lineage Master’s communication, it seemed the Lineage Master… was very excited?
Yes, very excited!
And the Twelve Lineage Masters would be bleeding heavily?
Ji Qing didn’t know what reason made the Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage so excited.
But since the Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage summoned him, Ji Qing had no choice but to set off.
Soon, Ji Qing arrived at Nirvana Mountain.
When he stepped into the Silent Mountain Grand Hall, he saw thirteen figures.
“Swish.”
Thirteen gazes instantly fell upon Ji Qing.
For a moment, Ji Qing’s figure slightly paused.
Although it was just a gaze, behind these thirteen gazes were Great Experts, and they were Great Experts who commanded a lineage, top-tier existences who could command the wind and rain in the Black Ruins.
Ji Qing, a Martial Saint, naturally felt pressure being stared at by so many terrifying Great Experts.
However, after his figure paused, he suddenly strode forward, directly into the Great Hall.
“Disciple Ji Qing of the Spirit Fusion Lineage, pays respects to all Lineage Masters!”
Ji Qing lowered his head and respectfully saluted the thirteen figures.
After all, these were the Lineage Masters of each lineage, holding great power over their respective lineages.
At this moment, the Lineage Master of the Jie Mie Lineage spoke, “Ji Qing, you are summoned because of the matter of the Fire Burning Secret Realm, and we need you to lead the team there…”
As the Lineage Master of the Jie Mie Lineage explained the matter of the Fire Burning Secret Realm, Ji Qing finally understood why his own Lineage Master had called it good news.
This was indeed good news.
To have him lead the team to the Fire Burning Secret Realm to contend for it.
How could the Lineage Masters of each lineage not bleed?
Ji Qing’s gaze turned towards his own Lineage Master.
The Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage nodded slightly.
The meaning was clear: let Ji Qing make any requests, even bold ones.
Simply put, it was to ask for benefits.
As for the danger?
At the Martial Saint level, Ji Qing was not afraid of any danger.
Ji Qing could naturally go to this Fire Burning Secret Realm.
But the benefits he should ask for, Ji Qing still had to ask for!
And what did he lack the most now?
Ji Qing fell into thought.
“Right, World-Suppressing Stones!”
Ji Qing thought of what he needed now.
Ji Qing planned to use the “Enlightenment” opportunity when he merged divinity to reach the Ten Thousand Dao Realm, to comprehend the Nine Heavens Mandate Lock, thereby improving his Domain Space to Perfection, or even transforming his Domain Space into a Realm.
This required World-Suppressing Stones, not just one, but many.
The more World-Suppressing Stones there were, combined with Ji Qing’s Nine Heavens Mandate Lock, the more confident he would be in transforming his Domain Space into a Realm.
And the Spirit Fusion Lineage, and even the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory, would likely find it difficult to exchange for World-Suppressing Stones.
But the Lineage Masters present were different.
Each of them was a top Great Expert in the Black Ruins.
No matter how difficult a treasure was to find, it wouldn’t be too difficult for these people.
Thus, Ji Qing said, “This disciple requires some World-Suppressing Stones, at least eight, the more the better.”
Ji Qing made his request.
“World-Suppressing Stones, and at least eight?”
The other twelve Lineage Masters glanced at each other. Among them, the Lineage Master of the Reincarnation Lineage said with a smile, “Ji Qing, you have a big appetite, asking for eight World-Suppressing Stones right off the bat. Do you know how difficult it is to obtain World-Suppressing Stones? Even if top Great Experts make a move, finding one World-Suppressing Stone is incredibly difficult. And you want eight…”
The Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage remained silent.
This was Ji Qing’s request, what did it have to do with him?
Seeing that the Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage did not speak, everyone knew that he supported Ji Qing’s demand for benefits.
But Ji Qing was asking for too much.
The Lineage Master of the Jie Mie Lineage shook his head and said, “Just leading the team to the Fire Burning Secret Realm is not enough for you to obtain at least eight World-Suppressing Stones.”
Ji Qing’s eyes lit up.
He thought for a moment, then said in a deep voice, “What if this disciple guarantees to control the Fire Burning Secret Realm?”
“Hm? Control the Fire Burning Secret Realm?”
The Lineage Master of the Jie Mie Lineage smiled.
To control the Fire Burning Secret Realm, not only would they have to defeat the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, but once other powers knew Ji Qing wanted to control it, they would also join forces with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect to deal with Ji Qing.
Even if Ji Qing was invincible among the Martial Saints of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory.
But it was different inside the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
It was a place that gathered the strongest Martial Saints and Nascent Soul cultivators from the top powers of the entire Black Ruins.
Even if the Lineage Masters of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory were arrogant, they knew that those top powers were not to be trifled with. Controlling the Fire Burning Secret Realm was difficult! Difficult! Difficult!
Almost impossible.
“If you can truly control the Fire Burning Secret Realm, what if we, the thirteen Lineage Masters, personally go to the Black Ruins to find eight World-Suppressing Stones for you? No, eight is not enough, we’ll give you ten or more!”
The Lineage Master of the Jie Mie Lineage said.
“Good, it’s a deal!”
Ji Qing immediately agreed.
It seemed he was quite confident.
“Lineage Master, when do we depart?”
Ji Qing asked.
“The Fire Burning Secret Realm opens in a month. Hmm, let’s tentatively set it for a month.”
The Lineage Master of the Jie Mie Lineage set the time.
“Good, one month, this disciple will be fully prepared.”
Ji Qing thought, one month was enough time to prepare.
“Alright, you may go down now.”
Ji Qing left.
Only the thirteen Lineage Masters remained in the Great Hall.
One Lineage Master said, “Tsk tsk, this junior Ji Qing is quite interesting, actually wanting to control the entire Fire Burning Secret Realm? However, if there is anyone among our Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory who can control the Fire Burning Secret Realm, it would have to be someone from the Spirit Fusion Lineage.”
“Indeed, in terms of combat power, the Spirit Fusion Lineage is first! This Ji Qing, regardless of his mind, in the Martial Saint, and even Martial God realm, his combat power is enough to sweep through everything. If we were to carefully select some top Martial Saints for him to cooperate with, then controlling the Fire Burning Secret Realm might truly have a sliver of hope.”
“By the way, what does Ji Qing want World-Suppressing Stones for? He’s just a Martial Saint, he shouldn’t need World-Suppressing Stones…”
The gazes of everyone turned to the Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage.
Clearly, they all wanted the Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage to explain.
A Martial Saint asking for World-Suppressing Stones was indeed a bit strange.
The Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage slowly said, “You only know that Ji Qing, as a Martial Saint, passed through two layers of the Purgatory Battlefield, but do you know how he passed them? You probably don’t. In fact, if you had seen him in action, you would know that Ji Qing has a Domain Space. If I’m not mistaken, he wants to use World-Suppressing Stones to transform his Domain Space into a Realm, to advance further!”
As the words of the Lineage Master of the Spirit Fusion Lineage fell, the hearts of the twelve Lineage Masters, top Great Experts, couldn’t help but tremble slightly.
“Domain Space, transforming into a Realm?”
“He is only a Martial Saint, and he already wants to transform his Domain Space into a Realm?”
“Remarkable! Truly remarkable! If he really succeeds, your Spirit Fusion Lineage has struck gold. Even if his mind is a bit lacking, so what?”
“To comprehend Domain Space, and to be able to transform it into a Realm, yet have such a poor mind, it feels a bit off…”
Even for top Great Experts like the Lineage Masters of each lineage, transforming Domain Space into a Realm was a great achievement.
It was entirely based on comprehension.
And with such high comprehension, yet such a poor mind, it was a bit abnormal.
But the Heart Questioning Platform test would not be wrong.
“Never mind, since Ji Qing is so confident, we can’t be unprepared. Fellow Daoists, shall we take a trip to the Restricted Area together?”
“Good, after Ji Qing leaves, we’ll take a trip to the Restricted Area. It’s been many years since we last went, and some Exotic Items can only be found in the Restricted Area, including World-Suppressing Stones.”
“With the thirteen of us Lineage Masters joining forces, what place can’t we break into?”
The thirteen Lineage Masters exchanged glances, and a hint of a smile appeared on their faces.
It was indeed very rare for the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory Lineage Masters to act together.
They never expected that because of a mere core disciple at the “Martial Saint” level, they would have to join forces to go to the Restricted Area.
…
Ji Qing returned to the Ninth Peak.
He didn’t know where the Lineage Masters of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory would search for World-Suppressing Stones, but he only had one month to prepare.
During this month, Ji Qing did not delay, madly merging divinity.
He had already merged two thousand divinity, and now he was continuously merging.
Three thousand, four thousand, five thousand, six thousand, seven thousand…
Ji Qing possessed three types of Divine Bodies.
His own upper limit was very high.
Even approaching ten thousand divinity, Ji Qing did not feel the upper limit of divinity.
This meant he didn’t have to worry about the upper limit of divinity before the Ten Thousand Dao Realm.
In the blink of an eye, one month had passed.
“Swish.”
Ji Qing opened his eyes.
He glanced at the progress of divinity fusion.
“Divinity: Thousand Dao Realm （ Nine thousand nine hundred and ninety divinity ）”
Currently, he had merged divinity to the point where only ten more were needed to reach ten thousand.
Therefore, Ji Qing stopped.
The World-Suppressing Stones had not yet been obtained, and Ji Qing would not reach the Ten Thousand Dao Realm and waste an “Enlightenment” opportunity for nothing.
“If I successfully control the secret realm this time, I will obtain a large number of World-Suppressing Stones, and then I will ‘Enlighten’ and bring my Domain Space to Perfection, or even directly transform it into a Realm!”
Once Ji Qing’s Domain Space “transformed into a Realm,” his strength would also soar.
As for the opponents in the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
Ji Qing would not underestimate them.
But if it were only at the Martial Saint realm, Ji Qing would truly have no scruples.
He would not underestimate others, but he would not belittle himself either.
Having passed the second layer of the Purgatory Battlefield, Ji Qing was already enough to sweep through all Martial Saints in the Black Ruins.
His Heart Realm had also broken through to the Fifth Stage, increasing his power by another twenty percent.
This strength was enough to suppress a generation of Martial Saints in the Black Ruins!
“Time is up, it’s time to set off!”
Ji Qing stood up, left the Ninth Peak, and teleported towards Nirvana Mountain.
…
In the Silent Mountain Grand Hall, over a hundred Martial Saints were gathered.
At a rate of ten Martial Saints per lineage, there were a total of one hundred and thirty people.
Among these one hundred and thirty people were core disciples, as well as descendants of Great Experts within five generations who could stay by their side.
There were even top Martial Saints from the outer sects.
These Martial Saints, regardless of age, identity, or talent, had only one characteristic: they had all passed the first layer of the Purgatory Battlefield.
They were all extremely powerful in combat.
This was basically the strongest team of Martial Saints that the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory could muster.
It showed how much importance the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory placed on this competition for the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
“I heard we’re going to contend for the Fire Burning Secret Realm this time, and with such a big move, are we going to take over the Fire Burning Secret Realm completely?”
“The Fire Burning Secret Realm is quite dangerous, and the cultivators of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect naturally have an advantage. Even our Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory won’t gain much of an advantage against the cultivators of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.”
“Last time the Fire Burning Secret Realm opened, the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect held seventy percent of the authority and was very close to controlling the Fire Burning Secret Realm. Years later, with the Fire Burning Secret Realm opening again, the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect has likely made thorough preparations to completely control the Fire Burning Secret Realm. Our hard clash with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect this time, I fear the outcome is unpredictable.”
Everyone’s heart tightened.
“Unpredictable outcome” was a very “euphemistic” way of saying things.
The fact was, if they clashed head-on with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, they would only suffer heavy casualties and bloody noses.
As for wanting to surpass the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect and control the Fire Burning Secret Realm, that is simply impossible.
“Right, do you guys know who is leading this time?”
Someone suddenly asked.
Everyone looked at each other.
They really hadn’t gathered any news.
Who is leading?
It seems to be still confidential.
And some intelligent people knew that with the great commotion caused by the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory this time, summoning them to the Fire Burning Secret Realm, it was absolutely not just for show.
They were really going to seize control of the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
It was hard to say whether they would live or die on this journey.
“Whoosh.”
At this moment, several imposing figures appeared in the Great Hall.
There were a total of thirteen figures, seated high on the chairs in the Great Hall.
Everyone quickly bowed and said, “Disciples pay respects to all Lineage Masters!”
The one hundred and thirty Martial Saints were all very respectful.
After all, these were the Lineage Masters of each meridian.
In their eyes, they were beings of extremely high status.
Even Core Disciples had to be extremely respectful to the Lineage Masters.
Even without their status as Lineage Masters, these thirteen figures were Top Great Powers of the Black Ruins, with terrifying strength.
The Jie Mie Lineage Master slowly spoke, “One more person hasn’t arrived, let’s wait.”
Everyone was slightly stunned.
Someone else hadn’t arrived?
Weren’t the one hundred and thirty Martial Saints all here?
Each meridian had ten Martial Saints.
“Hmm? It seems to be true… there are only one hundred and twenty-nine Martial Saints in total, the Spirit Fusion Lineage is one short.”
“The Spirit Fusion Lineage is one Martial Saint short? Could it be…”
Some people had already reacted.
Could it really be that person?
One person was missing, yet the Thirteen Meridian Masters were all seated, waiting quietly, without the slightest hint of blame.
This was very strange.
Even that person from the Spirit Fusion Lineage was merely a Martial Saint.
Compared to the Lineage Masters of each meridian, the gap was still immense.
With the thirteen Lineage Masters waiting quietly, the many Martial Saints below naturally did not dare to make a sound.
After waiting for about the time it takes to brew a cup of tea.
“Swish.”
A figure arrived in the Great Hall.
“Whoosh.”
Countless gazes fell upon that person.
“Disciple Ji Qing pays his respects to all Lineage Masters!”
Ji Qing calmly bowed to the Thirteen Meridian Masters.
“Boom.”
The Martial Saints in the Great Hall felt stormy seas churning in their hearts.
It was as they had guessed.
Ji Qing from the Spirit Fusion Lineage had indeed arrived!
Ji Qing’s reputation in the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory was immense now.
Ji Qing had passed the Second Layer of the Purgatory Battlefield, but his mind was extremely weak.
Such a stark contrast made Ji Qing’s reputation mixed.
Some felt that Ji Qing was nothing special and would have difficulty reaching the Divine Ability Realm in the future.
Others believed that Ji Qing actually had immense potential, and once his mental issues were resolved, he would soar to the heavens and be unstoppable!
Regardless, Ji Qing’s fame continued to grow.
In the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory, there was no one who didn’t recognize Ji Qing now.
Even if they didn’t recognize him, they had heard of his name.
Now, Ji Qing had truly arrived at the Jie Mie Great Hall, and it seemed he would go with them to contend for the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
Many people already had bold ideas in their minds.
Were the Thirteen Meridian Masters so eager to gather the Martial Saints this time because Ji Qing’s strength was too great, and they wanted to contend with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect?
Could it be that the Lineage Masters actually wanted to rely on Ji Qing to seize the Fire Burning Secret Realm?
Truly… too crazy!
The Jie Mie Lineage Master slowly spoke, “Good, since everyone is here, I hereby declare that the objective for this trip to the Fire Burning Secret Realm is to seize the Fire Burning Secret Realm! Ji Qing of the Spirit Fusion Lineage will be in command. Everyone will obey Ji Qing’s orders and not disobey! Otherwise, Ji Qing may kill without mercy!”
“Boom.”
As soon as these words were spoken, the faces of the one hundred and thirty Martial Saints changed drastically.
That Ji Qing would be in charge, they had all guessed.
But that Ji Qing would be given such great authority, they had never imagined.
They wondered what the Lineage Masters of each meridian were thinking?
Or did the Lineage Masters of each meridian truly believe Ji Qing could seize the Fire Burning Secret Realm?
It was pure fantasy.
The Fire Burning Secret Realm had existed for so long, and the various top powers of the Black Ruins had contended for it countless times, only recently had the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect gradually gained the upper hand.
The Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory were currently in a state of “old is gone, new is not yet here.”
Could it be that relying on Ji Qing alone, they could suppress the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect and seize the Fire Burning Secret Realm?
“Lineage Master, we…”
Someone couldn’t help but speak.
“This is the joint decision of the thirteen Lineage Masters!”
As soon as this sentence was uttered, the meaning was crystal clear.
They had no choice but to obey the orders.
Doubt?
The Lineage Masters of each meridian paid no attention to it at all.
“This time, Huang Quan Great Venerable, Tian Ji Zi Great Venerable, and Yin Lian Great Venerable will lead the team. You just need to go to the Fire Burning Secret Realm.”
As the Lineage Master’s voice fell, three Great Venerables flew in from outside.
“Let’s go.”
Huang Quan Great Venerable waved his hand, and a scroll directly swept the one hundred and thirty Martial Saints into it.
This was a Space Magic Treasure.
It could carry any number of people.
The three Great Venerables cupped their fists slightly towards the thirteen Lineage Masters, then took a step forward, traversing the void and leaving the Purgatory Realm.
The Jie Mie Lineage Master also showed a faint smile, glancing at the other Lineage Masters, “Fellow Daoists, since Ji Qing and the others have left, shouldn’t we also set off for the Restricted Area?”
“Yes, it’s time to go.”
“Let’s hurry and get back early.”
Faced with the Restricted Area that countless cultivators in the Black Ruins feared like the plague, the thirteen Lineage Masters seemed to be going on a casual tour, showing no signs of tension.
“Go.”
Thus, the thirteen figures instantly tore through the void and disappeared without a trace.
……
Inside the Space Magic Treasure, the one hundred and thirty Martial Saints were all silent.
Ji Qing also did not speak.
He sat cross-legged on the ground, seemingly resting with his eyes closed.
Ji Qing could remain calm, but some people couldn’t.
One of the Martial Saints couldn’t help but speak, “Your Highness Ji Qing, for this trip to the Fire Burning Secret Realm, we will all follow your orders. Do you have any plans?”
Ji Qing was a Core Disciple of the Spirit Fusion Lineage.
His status was noble.
It didn’t matter what these Martial Saints were thinking in their hearts, but they couldn’t offend him with their words.
Especially since they were about to go to the Fire Burning Secret Realm, Ji Qing held their lives in his hands.
The key was that Ji Qing’s strength was truly convincing.
This was beyond doubt.
They were all genuinely convinced by anyone who could pass the Second Layer of the Purgatory Battlefield.
Ji Qing slowly opened his eyes.
He saw the Martial Saint in front of him and confirmed he didn’t recognize him.
“Who might you be…”
“I am Zhao Yichen from the Burning Heaven Lineage.”
Ji Qing nodded. He had no impression of Zhao Yichen, so this person was definitely not a Core Disciple of the Burning Heaven Lineage, likely a descendant of some Great Expert.
“Zhao Yichen, do you have any understanding of the Fire Burning Secret Realm?”
Ji Qing asked back.
“I do have some understanding, but not much, at most I know some common knowledge. The Fire Burning Secret Realm is filled with terrifying flames, and we Martial Saints need to use Martial Saint Power to suppress those flames. My Burning Heaven Lineage has a Flame Body, so we don’t need to suppress the flames, but others can’t stand it.”
“The Fire Burning Secret Realm also breeds many Flame Monsters, their strength is incredibly formidable, we need to defeat these Flame Monsters and occupy some of the Secret Realm’s Nexus. When all the Secret Realm Nexus are occupied, it means control of the Fire Burning Secret Realm.”
Ji Qing nodded.
“Since you have such a good understanding of the Fire Burning Secret Realm, my plan is also very simple. Enter the Fire Burning Secret Realm, listen to my arrangements, and occupy the Secret Realm Nexus one by one, until all the Secret Realm Nexus are occupied, thereby completely controlling the Fire Burning Secret Realm.”
“Uh… that’s all?”
“Yes, that’s all. How complicated could it be?”
Zhao Yichen’s expression was grim, as were the other Martial Saints.
These words were easy to say, but actually doing it would be a huge problem.
For example, there were so many Nexus, and after occupying a Nexus, they needed to send people to guard it.
Who could withstand that?
Even if Ji Qing was very strong, he was only one person.
How many Nexus could he guard?
And the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect was strong in all aspects, not just one or two individuals.
The cultivators of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect could guard the Secret Realm Nexus.
Zhao Yichen gritted his teeth and voiced his hidden worries.
Their overall strength was inferior to the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.
It was too difficult to occupy all the Nexus of the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
Even if Ji Qing could capture a Nexus, others wouldn’t be able to hold it.
Ji Qing’s eyes narrowed slightly.
This was indeed a troublesome issue.
“Since we can’t defend it, then there’s no point in trying to defend it. If I kill all the Martial Saints of other forces in the Fire Burning Secret Realm, especially the Martial Saints of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, wouldn’t the Secret Realm Nexus be ours to occupy?”
Ji Qing suddenly said.
“This…”
Zhao Yichen was startled.
Not to mention, this was indeed a feasible method.
The prerequisite was that Ji Qing could achieve it.
If he could truly kill the cultivators of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, it would be easy to defend the Nexus of the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
Moreover, if Ji Qing could eliminate the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, other forces would likely weigh the pros and cons and not dare to provoke the cultivators of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory.
For a moment, many Martial Saints began to discuss in hushed tones.
This method was feasible!
But it was the same as before.
Whether what was said could be achieved was what mattered.
Ji Qing might truly be able to sweep through all the Martial Saints.
But the Martial Saints of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect were not ordinary individuals either.
Each of them could fight against a Martial God.
Their overall strength was extremely formidable.
If they lost the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, they would have to prepare for direct confrontation and heavy casualties.
For a moment, the previously jubilant atmosphere had vanished.
It was replaced by solemnity.
“Buzz.”
Suddenly, the space vibrated.
Immediately after, Ji Qing and the others were teleported out of the Magic Treasure.
Ji Qing raised his head and discovered he had already arrived outside the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
Three Great Experts were waiting quietly.
Many Great Experts also stood in the distance, followed by a group of Martial Saints behind them.
Some factions had also dispatched Nascent Soul cultivators.
Although the combat power of Nascent Soul cultivators was half a step inferior to that of Martial Saints.
However, these Nascent Soul cultivators were not here to contend for the secret realm, but to search for Fire Burning Source Stones, which could be used to refine some fire-attribute magic treasures, providing significant amplification effects.
However, the most eye-catching sight was a splash of fiery red in the distance.
It was a group of cultivators dressed in fiery red attire, exuding terrifying flames all around them.
Even the void was distorted by the burning flames.
There were three terrifying flames; not to mention getting close, just a glance seemed to burn one’s eyes.
“Don’t look, those are the core flames cultivated by the three Great Experts of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect. They not only burn the physical body but also the spirit. Even a glance could lead to self-immolation and leave flames in your spiritual consciousness, causing you to be utterly burned away,”
Tian Ji Zi said calmly.
With a wave of his hand, a circle of light enveloped the many Martial Saints.
With this circle of light, it seemed they could be shielded from those terrifying flames.
The many Martial Saints felt a sense of relief.
The Great Experts of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect were truly terrifying.
Even a glance could potentially cause self-immolation.
Just how terrifying must those flames be?
“Flames that burn the spirit?”
Ji Qing sensed within his mind.
Unfortunately, he had been affected.
Within his spirit, an additional wisp of flame had appeared.
This wisp of flame was burning his spirit.
As long as there was spirit, this wisp of flame would continue to burn.
Was this the method of a Great Expert?
Truly terrifying.
He had been affected without even realizing it.
This was merely from the flames that the other party was inadvertently emitting.
If they were to target him actively, how terrifying would that be?
Ji Qing’s mind moved.
If it could burn the spirit, it must also be related to the spirit.
Thus, Ji Qing’s Power of Return to Void rapidly delved into his spirit.
It immediately enveloped that wisp of flame.
At the same time, the Power of Return to Void that Ji Qing unleashed transformed into its second form: Erase!
This was capable of erasing Primordial Spirits and spiritual power.
As the Power of Return to Void exhibited the capabilities of its second form, that wisp of flame was indeed gradually erased.
Although it was slow, it was indeed being erased.
Until it completely disappeared.
“Hmm?”
Suddenly, one of the three Great Experts of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect abruptly opened his eyes.
His gaze was fixed directly on the formation of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory.
Ji Qing’s eyes narrowed slightly.
He wasn’t sure if it was his imagination, but he felt as if that Great Expert was “staring” at him.
Could it be that erasing the other party’s flame just now had attracted their attention?
It was possible.
However, the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory were not to be trifled with either.
Tian Ji Zi sneered and said, “What, Old Ghost Yan, do you have an issue with my Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory? Then how about a one-on-one spar with me?”
Tian Ji Zi did not fear the other party.
The Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory also did not fear the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect!
The Great Expert surnamed Yan was too lazy to engage in a verbal spat with Tian Ji Zi.
He directly transmitted a message to a Martial Saint, “Yan Chuan, once we enter the Fire Burning Secret Realm, you will immediately kill that Martial Saint from the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory. This person is somewhat peculiar, actually being able to erase my core flame? Even a mere wisp of dissipated flame is not something an ordinary person can do. Kill him directly to avoid unforeseen complications and accidents.”
“Yes, Old Ancestor!”
Yan Chuan also glanced at the Martial Saint his Old Ancestor had mentioned.
He saw Ji Qing.
Similarly, Ji Qing noticed Yan Chuan’s gaze.
Their gazes seemed to collide in the void.
“Killing intent?”
“I have never met this person before, yet he now harbors killing intent towards me? Could it be that because I erased a wisp of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect Great Expert’s flame, I have been targeted by the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect and they even intend to kill me?”
Ji Qing was somewhat surprised.
If this were the case, then the people of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect were too cautious.
Tian Ji Zi also sensed something was amiss and transmitted a message, asking, “Ji Qing, why does that Martial Saint from the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect have killing intent towards you? Even Old Ghost Yan was staring at you just now, what did you do?”
Ji Qing truthfully replied, “Reporting to Elder, this disciple merely erased a wisp of the Great Expert’s spiritual fire…”
“You can actually erase Old Ghost Yan’s spiritual fire? No wonder… That Old Ghost Yan is naturally cautious and must think you are peculiar, hence he had the Martial Saint of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect target you.”
“And that Martial Saint is also his descendant, possessing extreme strength among the many Martial Saints of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect. You must be careful.”
Ji Qing nodded.
The other party’s face was cold, his gaze incomparably calm, seemingly devoid of any emotion.
He looked like an important figure of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.
He indeed had to be careful.
Once inside the Fire Burning Secret Realm, he had to eliminate the other party immediately.
Ji Qing had already silently assigned the “first kill” to that Martial Saint of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.
As time passed, more and more factions arrived.
The number of Martial Saints and Nascent Souls also increased.
However, none could compare to the imposing aura of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.
Even top factions whose strength rivaled the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory and the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect did not bring many Martial Saint-level experts.
Clearly, these factions had likely guessed that the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect would go all out this time to completely seize the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
Knowing they couldn’t stop it, they saw no point in resisting further, lest their own excellent disciples be sent to their deaths for nothing.
Only the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory, however, gathered their strongest Martial Saints, intending to fiercely clash with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.
Even though the Fire Burning Secret Realm had not yet opened, a terrifying aura of slaughter emanated from the void.
“Buzz.”
Suddenly, spatial ripples surged through the void.
Following that, a wave of scorching heat rushed towards them.
Within the Black Ruins, a massive rift suddenly appeared.
“The Fire Burning Secret Realm has opened!”
“The Fire Burning Secret Realm has finally opened. This time, the sect mission is for Fire Burning Source Stones, and secondly, to prioritize survival. Do not concern yourselves with the nexus of the Fire Burning Secret Realm; let the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect and the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory fight for it…”
“This time, the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory have gone mad, insisting on a direct confrontation with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect. These two major factions will likely engage in a brutal battle; our Black Nether Sect will not interfere…”
The first to rush towards the Fire Burning Secret Realm were some relatively smaller factions.
They did not contend for the Fire Burning Secret Realm but only sought to obtain Fire Burning Source Stones.
Furthermore, they could tell that the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory were well-prepared this time and were bound to clash with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, making them even less willing to get involved.
A battle between two top factions; if a third party rashly intervened, it would likely be them who died…
“We shall enter as well. Upon reaching the Fire Burning Secret Realm, each of you will search for the nearest nexus and transmit its location to me.”
Ji Qing spoke.
Upon entering the Fire Burning Secret Realm, everyone would be distributed across different locations.
Moreover, each time the Fire Burning Secret Realm opened, the locations of the nexuses would change.
“Yes, Your Highness Ji Qing.”
Thus, the people of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory all flew into the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
The Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect did the same; soon, only Great Experts from various factions remained outside the secret realm.
“Swish.”
Suddenly, the Great Expert surnamed Yan of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect spoke, “Tian Ji Zi, this time your Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory intend to directly confront my Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect in the Fire Burning Secret Realm, are you relying on that Martial Saint who erased my spiritual fire?”
Many Great Experts were slightly taken aback.
A Martial Saint from the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory could erase Yan Fen’s spiritual fire?
This was truly surprising.
Had the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory, without anyone noticing, cultivated such a Martial Saint?
Tian Ji Zi sneered, “Old Ghost Yan, so what if it is? What if it isn’t? If your Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect wants to completely control the Fire Burning Secret Realm, you’ll have to see if my Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory agree!”
“Good, then I shall see how your Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory return in utter defeat this time.”
Yan Fen was too lazy to speak further.
It was not the first time the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect and the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory had clashed in the Black Ruins.
Verbal sparring would not determine a victor.
The Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect had been prospering in recent years, especially with the emergence of many promising talents among the younger generation.
Not to mention that this time, within the Fire Burning Secret Realm, the Martial Saints of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect held a significant advantage.
Especially this time, the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect had even dispatched an “Emperor’s Son.”
This was the first time in many years that a Martial Saint-level cultivator of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect had awakened their “Emperor-level bloodline,” and they were placed with great expectations by everyone in the sect.
The strength of the “Emperor’s Son” was sufficient to sweep aside cultivators of the same level.
With the “Emperor’s Son” leading the charge into the Fire Burning Secret Realm, what could the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory use to contend with the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect?
The Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect’s “Emperor’s Son” had always been secretly cultivated.
It was only until now that the “Emperor’s Son” was prepared to lead the charge to seize the Fire Burning Secret Realm, accumulate an invincible aura, and then with one final push, nurture a “Legendary Dao Fruit.”
Once successful, the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect would continue to flourish for tens of thousands of years to come!
Thinking of this, Yan Fen’s lips curved into a cold smile.
…
Within the Fire Burning Secret Realm, three Martial Saints from the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory were relatively lucky; their locations were close to each other, and they quickly gathered.
They had now also found the nearest nexus.
The nexuses of the Fire Burning Secret Realm were small palaces.
Upon entering a palace, one could sense the other nexuses.
The three Martial Saints immediately entered the palace to sense the other nexuses.
“Hmm?”
“There are a total of… thirteen nexuses?”
“Five of the nexuses have been occupied. Only this one nexus is occupied by the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory; three nexuses are occupied by people from the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, and one is occupied by another faction.”
The three exchanged glances, their expressions becoming somewhat grim.
The Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect had already occupied three nexuses so quickly?
The situation was not looking good!
“As Your Highness Ji Qing instructed, we will first defend this nexus…”
Suddenly, the expressions of the three changed.
They sensed that several figures had appeared outside.
Therefore, they immediately shouted, “We are people of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory. This nexus has already been occupied by our Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory. Anyone who does not wish for conflict should leave immediately!”
These words were to state their position.
After all, the only ones daring to contend for nexuses within the Fire Burning Secret Realm this time were the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect and the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory.
Other cultivators were merely after the Fire Burning Source Stones.
“People of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory, get out!”
A sharp voice rang out.
The complexions of the three changed drastically.
There was only one possibility for someone speaking to them in such a manner now.
The Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect!
There were people from the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect outside!
This was troublesome.
However, the three were also top Martial Saints, so they immediately left the palace and took a careful look.
There were indeed several people outside.
However, they were not all from the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.
On the contrary, only one person was from the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect.
One of them had a stern expression, his gaze falling upon the three without any fluctuation.
Following that, with a wave of his hand.
A spectral image appeared in the void.
It was clearly Ji Qing’s appearance.
“I know you can contact this person. Send him a Communication Talisman and have him come here. Otherwise, you will die!”
The pupils of the three Martial Saints of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory slightly contracted.
The other party specifically came for Ji Qing?
“Who are you?”
The three asked.
“Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect, Yan Chuan!”
Yan Chuan glanced up at the three and said coldly, “You have one incense stick’s worth of time. If he is not here after one incense stick, I will destroy you!”
The three were extremely angry.
They were also among the top talents of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory Martial Saints, having cleared the First Layer of the Purgatory Battlefield.
In the Black Ruins, they were considered Heavenly Talents capable of defeating Martial Gods.
Yet, they were being so ignored by this Yan Chuan in front of them?
“A mere individual dares to seek out Your Highness Ji Qing?”
A hint of killing intent flashed in the eyes of the three.
“Attack!”
The three unleashed their Martial Saint Power.
Their figures instantly shot towards Yan Chuan.
A terrifying aura erupted, locking onto Yan Chuan.
The three joined forces, seemingly intending to blast Yan Chuan.
Yan Chuan merely raised one hand slightly.
Then, he lightly clenched it.
“Boom.”
The countless Flames around them suddenly vibrated intensely.
Simultaneously, the countless Flames converged, forming a giant hand that directly grasped the three Martial Saints of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory.
“Ah…”
The three let out screams.
Held by the giant Flame hand, their bodies were being scorched by Flames, the pain driving them to wail and scream like madmen.
“His name is Ji Qing? Send him a Communication Talisman, or you will be burned by Flames and die a tormented death…”
The three hardened their gazes.
They sneered, “Fine, since you wish to die, we shall fulfill your wish. When Your Highness Ji Qing arrives, you will know what it means for a mayfly to see the heavens, and what true Heavenly Talent is?”
Without further hesitation, the three immediately sent the Communication Talisman.
They had confidence in Ji Qing.
Ji Qing was a monstrous talent who had cleared the Second Layer of the Purgatory Battlefield.
He was the most talented individual of the Spirit Fusion Lineage in tens of thousands of years.
Did a mere nobody from the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect dare to arrogantly confront Ji Qing?
Witnessing this scene, some nearby cultivators who were searching for Fire Burning Source Stones felt a sense of surprise.
Who was Ji Qing?
Yan Chuan of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect wanted to kill Ji Qing.
Yet, the three Martial Saints of the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory held Ji Qing in such high regard.
When did such a figure emerge from the Thirteen Meridians of Purgatory?
Yan Chuan didn’t bother arguing with the three.
He immediately closed his eyes to rest.
He seemed indifferent and detached to everything.
Once Ji Qing arrived, he would kill him.
This was both the Old Ancestor’s command and his own genuine thought.
What genius, what Heavenly Talent.
Besides the Emperor’s Son, no other Martial Saint was worth mentioning in Yan Chuan’s eyes.
Time passed by little by little.
It was already close to the time for one incense stick.
“Swish.”
Yan Chuan opened his eyes.
“The time for one incense stick is up. It seems your highly anticipated Ji Qing dares not to come.”
“In that case, you shall die.”
Yan Chuan’s expression was cold.
The Flame hand in the Void squeezed fiercely.
“Boom.”
Suddenly, Flames surged and churned in the Void.
The Flames that were previously burning fiercely now rapidly parted to both sides.
A path without Flames appeared in the Void.
Immediately after, a figure descended step by step from the Void.
With every step he took, the surrounding Flames cleared.
It must be known that this was the Fire Burning Secret Realm.
Flames were everywhere.
Even disciples of the Heavenly Fire Emperor Sect could only fearlessly endure the Flames by relying on special Cultivation Techniques.
How could it be like now, where countless Flames retreated wherever that figure went?
Furthermore, not a single Flame burned him.
“I heard you were looking for me?”
The figure looked down from above. Even more terrifying was that behind him, countless Flames seemed to have condensed into a sky-shattering Flame giant, spanning across the Void, as if looking down upon everyone.
ps: Today’s two chapters, ten thousand characters, bursting update, seeking monthly votes!
