“The three of us are naturally aware of the peculiarities in this matter. However, when the Mulan people advanced earlier, they captured many cultivators, most of whom were from the Nine Nations Alliance, but many disciples from our various sects were also caught. According to the envoy, the number of captives amounts to over a thousand,” Supreme Yang said with a grim expression.
“What do you mean by that? If we refuse the wager, would they dare execute the captives? If so, aren’t the Mulan people afraid of our retaliation?” Elder Kuang exclaimed in shock.
“The envoy didn’t explicitly mention executing captives, but he repeatedly emphasized giving us a chance to rescue these cultivators. For each of the ten wager battles, in addition to the materials, they will add over a hundred captured cultivators. If we win, these people will be released,” Supreme Yang continued.
Hearing this, the old monsters in the room exchanged uneasy glances. At first glance, a thousand or so cultivators might not seem significant, and most were likely low-level practitioners, making it seem unnecessary to yield to the enemy’s demands. However, if anyone openly suggested abandoning them, they would immediately become a target of public scorn.
These cultivators themselves might not be important, but the families and sects they represented were numerous. Many had been captured while delaying the Mulan spellcasters’ advance. If they were left unrescued, morale would plummet even before the battle began, and low-level cultivators would lose heart, unwilling to fight with full effort.
“Who would have thought these grassland barbarians could devise such a scheme? In previous invasions, they rarely used tactics, but this time they’ve played a truly sinister move. Even knowing it’s a trap, we have no choice but to step into it,” Long Han sighed in agreement. The others understood his words perfectly, feeling equally helpless and cursing the Mulan people’s cunning.
“It seems everyone has realized that we have no choice but to accept this wager. Regardless of the enemy’s intentions, we must defeat their spellcasters decisively, or the blow to morale will be severe. Moreover, judging by their proposed format, they don’t seem intent on cheating during the battles—they likely have other plans. So, participating fellow Daoists need not worry about hidden traps. If anything goes awry, we will intervene directly. Of course, since this is a life-and-death battle, participation is entirely voluntary. The three of us will not force anyone,” Supreme Yang said solemnly, sweeping his gaze across the hall.
“Voluntary?” The old monsters inwardly sneered at the word, their eyes flickering as they remained silent.
No one was foolish. Even without the peculiarities of this wager, no one would willingly risk their lives in such a battle. After centuries of arduous cultivation to reach their current realms, none were eager to throw it all away recklessly.
Han Li remained expressionless, with no intention of stepping forward. While he didn’t mind contributing to the war effort, it had to be without endangering his life. The last battle at Yellow Dragon Mountain had nearly cost him his life, and he had no desire to repeat the experience.
Seeing the reluctance in the hall, the Harmony Sower’s face darkened, and he let out a cold snort that sent a chill through the gathered cultivators. Yet, despite their discomfort, no one rose to respond.
Supreme Yang shook his head helplessly, while Wei Wuyan narrowed his eyes, lost in thought.
To break the awkward silence, Supreme Yang spoke again: “Before arriving, the three of us discussed this matter. Given the danger of the wager, any participating cultivator who wins will receive the rare materials as personal compensation, offsetting the risks involved. Additionally, we are aware that some fellow Daoists are in need of specific rare materials for their cultivation. The three of us have some reserves and may be able to assist.” As he spoke, his gaze swept over several individuals, including Han Li.
Han Li’s heart skipped a beat, puzzled. The others, all formidable cultivators, also showed flickers of surprise. Though the offer was tempting, no one immediately volunteered.
At that moment, Wei Wuyan, who had remained silent, suddenly looked toward the Soul Shatterer and transmitted a voice message. The Soul Shatterer’s expression shifted from shock to a mix of delight and hesitation. After a brief exchange, he seemed conflicted.
Meanwhile, the black-robed man whispered to the Harmony Sower, whose carefree demeanor vanished as he frowned, his face darkening.
“Very well. If the Supreme Yang can keep his promise, this humble one is willing to take the risk,” the Soul Shatterer declared after a moment of contemplation. The others were stunned.
Then, the Lustful Demon spoke up: “Since the Soul Shatterer is participating, I might as well join. Passing up so many rare materials would be a shame.” Though his words were cold, a hint of anger flickered in his brow.
The other cultivators exchanged glances, unsettled by the sudden willingness of these two.
True to form, the three great cultivators proceeded to negotiate privately with others, convincing most to join, though two flatly refused.
Han Li’s mind raced. Just then, Supreme Yang’s voice reached him: “Fellow Daoist Han, I’ve heard you’ve been searching for large quantities of refined gold essence. Is this true?”
Han Li had anticipated this but still felt his heart pound. His request to the Heavenly Dao Alliance for refined gold essence wasn’t a secret, so the knowledge wasn’t surprising.
“Indeed, I require refined gold essence to forge a treasure. Does Supreme Yang possess a significant amount?” Han Li replied calmly.
“Correct. Both Fellow Daoist Wei and I possess sizable portions, enough for your needs. Would you like to inspect them?” Supreme Yang smiled.
“I’ll consider participating only after verifying the quantity and quality,” Han Li replied cautiously.
Supreme Yang agreed readily. Soon, five had agreed to the wager, while others, like Han Li, requested time to decide. Satisfied, the three great cultivators moved on to strategizing against the Mulan spellcasters.
As the discussion turned to formations and tactics, Han Li’s thoughts drifted to the refined gold essence.
Truthfully, Han Li was dissatisfied with the power of his lifebound treasure, the Emerald Swarm Sword. It wasn’t that the sword was weak, but his enemies were either too feeble or too strong—the former falling to his Green Origin Sword Qi, the latter rendering the sword ineffective.
However, upon reading about the final technique in the Green Origin Sword Art, the “Great Profound Sword Formation,” Han Li realized the terrifying potential of the Emerald Swarm Sword when paired with the art. Even a fraction of its power could rival a late-stage Nascent Soul cultivator.
As for the Void Heaven Cauldron, despite Silvermoon’s extravagant praise, Han Li remained skeptical until he witnessed its power firsthand. Thus, the Great Profound Sword Formation was his true trump card for survival in the cultivation world. Securing the refined gold essence was non-negotiable.
Yet, whether to join the wager still gave him pause. He decided to wait and see the quantity offered. If sufficient, he might take the risk.
Unless facing a Mulan High Priest, he feared no one. Even if the Mulan resorted to tricks, his Wind Lightning Wings and Purple Apex Flame would ensure his escape.
With his mind settled, Han Li refocused on the discussions.
The meeting lasted nearly two hours, with Supreme Yang leading, the Harmony Sower interjecting, and Wei Wuyan speaking sparingly. Notably, both Supreme Yang and the Harmony Sower held Long Han in high regard, often seeking his input on matters related to the Heavenly Dao Alliance, confirming the rumors of his and his wife’s strength rivaling one of the three great cultivators.
Finally, duties were assigned, and the meeting concluded. Most departed, but three were asked to stay—Han Li, the Lustful Demon, and a pale, beautiful woman who had remained silent throughout.
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