Gu Xu looked at Mei Qing trapped within the whisk, a faint smile flickering across his ruddy face before vanishing quickly. His large eyes flared as he bellowed roughly toward the broken corpses Mei Qing had smashed: “This boy and I had a fair duel. Why did you interfere? You’ve broken the rules and damaged my reputation!”
“Don’t bother, Brother Huang. Don’t put on this act in front of me,” a hoarse, sullen voice replied. A sudden gust of cold wind rose, gathering the scattered corpse fragments into a pile before they vanished. A gaunt figure emerged.
His hair was sparse, his eyes glowing with black light, and he wore coarse hemp robes. It was Duan Chaoyong, the same man who had once visited the Liu residence and retreated during the battle between Liu Xing and Master Bai.
Duan’s eyes flickered with dark light as he coldly said to Huang Gu Xu, “Brother Huang, one must be fair. I helped you capture Mei Qing, and I lost three wooden corpses in the process. Are you really so dissatisfied? Pretending to be so noble?”
Gu Xu blinked a few times and replied gruffly, “That’s inconvenient. I came out of the mountains at my senior brother’s invitation. Before the battle, he clearly stated that capturing this boy would be a great achievement for our Gezao sect. Now you want to snatch the credit—that’s not fair at all.”
Duan laughed: “Brother Huang, what are you talking about? We’re all from the Meihua Sect. What difference is there between us? My second brother is in charge of the formation and can’t leave, so I’ve come to take the boy. Please don’t doubt me, Brother Huang.”
Gu Xu snorted coldly: “The Meihua Sect, huh? Brother Duan, let me speak plainly. Although your brothers aim to elevate the Meihua Sect to prominence among Daoist sects and even replace the Celestial Masters of Longhu as the Daoist leaders, you have a particular interest in Mei Qing. If I’m not mistaken, this boy must possess a secret technique of your sect. Don’t rush, Brother Duan. I have no intention of meddling in your sect’s affairs, but since I captured Mei Qing, I must claim this favor.”
“Rest assured, Huang Dao You,” a clear voice suddenly interrupted. Tao Zhongwen’s smiling face appeared between them. “As long as you hand Mei Qing over to me, I’ll certainly not hesitate to grant you the title of Celestial Master.”
“Tao Dao You’s words are naturally trustworthy,” Gu Xu said after a moment’s thought. “But this concerns the rise and fall of our sect, not a personal matter. Well, I’ll have to keep the boy under Gezao’s custody for now. When the imperial decree granting Gezao its title is issued, I’ll hand Mei Qing over to you.”
Tao Zhongwen’s smile widened. He glanced at Duan Chaoyong and shook his head: “Fourth Brother, it seems Huang Dao You still doesn’t fully trust our Meihua Sect. This matter can’t be delayed. What do you think we should do?”
Duan’s eyes darkened briefly before he sighed: “You’re the senior brother, so naturally you decide.”
Gu Xu was greatly surprised. He had assumed the brothers were at odds, which was why he had dared to be so firm with both. Unexpectedly, they now appeared to be cooperating. Still reeling from this revelation, he didn’t have time to think further. His body flickered, and suddenly a scroll appeared above his head.
Gu Xu looked at Mei Qing trapped within the whisk, a faint smile flickering across his jujube-red face before quickly disappearing. His large eyes widened as he shouted gruffly towards the pile of shattered remains behind Mei Qing, “This Daoist has engaged in a fair duel with this lad. Why do you interfere? Isn’t this breaking the rules and tarnishing my reputation?”
“Enough, Brother Huang. No need to put on a show in front of me. I helped you capture this lad and even lost three wooden corpses in the process. Yet you still seem dissatisfied? Stop pretending to be righteous,” a gloomy, hoarse voice echoed. Suddenly, a cold wind swept up, gathering the scattered remains into a pile before they vanished, revealing a gaunt figure.
The man had sparse hair, eyes gleaming with dark light, and wore coarse hemp clothes. It was none other than Duan Chaoyong, who had previously visited the Liu residence and retreated during the confrontation between Liu Xing and Master Bai.
Duan Chaoyong’s eyes flickered with dark light as he looked at Huang Gu Xu and said, “Brother Huang, one must be fair. I helped you capture Mei Qing, and the deed is done. How about you hand him over to me?”
Huang Gu Xu blinked a few times and replied gruffly, “That won’t be convenient. I came out of seclusion at the invitation of your senior brother. Before the battle, your senior brother made it clear that capturing this lad would be a great merit for our Gezao Sect. Now, Brother Duan, you want to snatch the credit. Isn’t that a bit unfair?”
Duan Chaoyong laughed, “Brother Huang, what are you talking about? My senior brother and I are both from the Plum Blossom Sect. There’s no difference. My senior brother is busy managing the grand formation and can’t leave, so I’ll take this lad. Don’t doubt me, Brother Huang.”
Huang Gu Xu sneered, “The Plum Blossom Sect? Brother Duan, let me speak plainly. Although your brothers intend to elevate the Plum Blossom Sect to the ranks of the Daoist sects and even replace the Celestial Master of Dragon and Tiger as the leader of the Daoist world, you seem particularly determined to capture Mei Qing. If I’m not mistaken, this lad must possess some secret of your sect, right? Brother Duan, don’t worry. I have no intention of meddling in your sect’s affairs, but since I captured Mei Qing, I must claim this favor.”
“Brother Huang, rest assured. As long as you hand Mei Qing over to me, I will not hesitate to grant you the title of Celestial Master,” a clear voice interjected. It was Tao Zhongwen, who appeared between the two with a smile.
“Brother Huang, your divine abilities are indeed extraordinary. You achieved a great merit with a single move,” Tao Zhongwen said with a beaming smile. “I always keep my word. Please hand Mei Qing over to me.”
Huang Gu Xu pondered for a moment and said, “I naturally trust your words, Master Tao. However, this matter concerns the rise and fall of our sect, not just my personal affairs. Alas, I must temporarily detain this lad in the Gezao Sect. On the day the imperial decree is issued, Mei Qing will be handed over to you.”
Tao Zhongwen’s smile widened. He glanced at Duan Chaoyong and shook his head, “Fourth Brother, it seems Brother Huang still doesn’t trust our Plum Blossom Sect. This matter cannot be delayed. What do you think?”
Duan Chaoyong’s dark eyes dimmed, and he sighed, “You are the senior brother. Naturally, you have the final say.”
Huang Gu Xu was greatly surprised. He had assumed that the two brothers were at odds, which is why he dared to remain firm between them. He hadn’t expected them to suddenly show signs of unity. Before he could think further, he swayed, and a celestial scroll suddenly appeared above his head.
The scroll seemed to be made of yellow silk, though its material was unclear. It was a small scroll, only displaying a single page with a massive, ancient seal on it. Unlike the immortal jade seal of Zhuo Wanchun or the whisk in Huang Gu Xu’s hand, this celestial scroll showed no spiritual fluctuations and appeared quite ordinary.
However, Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong exchanged a glance and dared not act rashly. The Gezao Sect’s seal and scroll were renowned. Since Huang Gu Xu had brought out this scroll at this moment, it must be a significant artifact, not something ordinary.
Tao Zhongwen chuckled, “Brother Huang, what are you doing? Do you think we would resort to force? Since you insist on holding this lad as collateral, we’ll comply. Fourth Brother, let’s proceed. I’ll return to the capital immediately to arrange for the Gezao Sect’s leadership and your title as Celestial Master. You stay here with Brother Huang to oversee things.”
Without waiting for further discussion, Tao Zhongwen spread his sleeves and soared into the sky, disappearing like a shooting star.
Duan Chaoyong snorted coldly, glanced at Huang Gu Xu, and with a swirl of black wind, vanished without a word, swiftly departing.
Huang Gu Xu was greatly puzzled. Why were these brothers so compliant today, leaving in such a hurry as if fleeing? The thought of “fleeing” struck him, and he quickly realized the situation. He urged his true essence and cast a spell, following them out.
At that moment, a deafening roar echoed, and the surrounding true essence seemed to riot, with water, arrows, metal winds, and earth stones wildly intertwining. Even someone of Huang Gu Xu’s high cultivation felt his true essence shaken, and the elemental winds battered his protective barrier.
The formation had been broken! Huang Gu Xu silently cursed Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong for their treachery. His spiritual sense detected several high monks and dozens of cultivators forcefully breaking into the formation from outside.
Tao Zhongwen’s formation had never been complete and couldn’t last long. His plan was to capture Lu Bing and Mei Qing in one fell swoop. However, Mei Qing’s allies proved formidable, with Zhang Yu Chong and Master Ku leading the charge, rendering Tao Zhongwen’s supposedly foolproof plan ineffective.
Though Tao Zhongwen had temporarily deceived Lu Bing and Master Ku with a bluff, the formation at the Yao residence, manned by only a few evil cultivators, couldn’t withstand a full assault for long. Meanwhile, Mei Qing displayed immense power, defeating Zhuo Xiaoxian, worsening the situation. Thus, Tao Zhongwen had no choice but to deploy the Heaven Net Formation, aiming solely to capture Mei Qing and retreat.
Finally succeeding, Tao Zhongwen ambushed Liu Xing and restrained Zhang Yu Chong, while Huang Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong jointly attacked Mei Qing. However, Huang Gu Xu, blinded by greed, tried to use this as leverage against Tao Zhongwen.
As the master of the formation, Tao Zhongwen sensed when Master Ku and others broke the Yao residence’s formation and turned to attack the Heaven Net Formation. He abandoned his allies, intending to deceive Huang Gu Xu and escape with Mei Qing, leaving the oblivious Huang Gu Xu to face the consequences.
But Huang Gu Xu’s interference and his display of the celestial scroll forced Tao Zhongwen to reconsider. If they resorted to force, even with their combined strength, they might not break the celestial scroll quickly. Moreover, Duan Chaoyong might not wholeheartedly assist. Thus, Tao Zhongwen decided to prioritize his own safety.
Though Huang Gu Xu didn’t fully grasp Tao Zhongwen’s intentions, he knew he had been betrayed. Silently cursing, he urged his movement technique, hoping to escape quickly amidst the chaotic true essence fluctuations. Hearing the sounds of Tao Zhongwen’s allies being killed and sensing pursuers behind him, he grew increasingly furious.
Huang Gu Xu urged his true essence and repeatedly released paper talismans to hinder his pursuers. Just as he thought he was about to escape unscathed, his spiritual sense suddenly froze, and a bone-chilling sensation flashed through his heart. Alarmed, he quickly chanted, “Command!”
The celestial scroll unfurled at his command, but it was a moment too late. Huang Gu Xu’s body stiffened as his true essence seemed to freeze. He desperately urged his inner techniques to break free.
Simultaneously, Tao Zhongwen attacked from above, and Duan Chaoyong from below, each wielding their magical instruments.
Tao Zhongwen’s instrument was a jade ruler, glowing with a soft green light, surrounded by five orbs that continuously revolved, emitting a gentle radiance. With each twist of his left hand, an orb flew out, tracing mysterious arcs as it struck towards Huang Gu Xu.
Duan Chaoyong, empty-handed, held a strange piece of blackened bone between his palms. The bone had several holes emitting mournful wails, and from these holes, one after another, skulls flew out.
With orbs above and skulls below, and Tao Zhongwen’s sneak attack, the celestial scroll above Huang Gu Xu’s head finally displayed its power.
The scroll suddenly shook, expanding to over ten feet long like a massive curtain. With a single roll, several unremarkable runes detached and flew towards the orbs and skulls.
A series of crackling sounds followed as the orbs and skulls were reduced to ash by the scroll’s energy, filling the air with smoke.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong were secretly amazed. Even without its master’s control, the celestial scroll could autonomously counterattack with such power.
However, the two brothers, long accustomed to scheming, wouldn’t stop there. They exchanged glances and attacked again.
Duan Chaoyong lightly tapped the black bone, his left hand moving like a musician playing a stringed instrument. He chanted a strange incantation, and layers of black mist gradually seeped from the bone’s holes, accompanied by eerie winds and ghostly wails, accumulating beneath the celestial scroll.
The scroll, lacking its master’s guidance, didn’t know to remain still. Seeing the ghostly mist below, it unfurled again and pounced downward.
Duan Chaoyong, with a grave expression, continuously released waves of ghostly mist, slowly retreating as he fought.
Tao Zhongwen, his smile gone, saw Huang Gu Xu in pain but gradually recovering from his sneak attack. He clapped his hands and shouted, releasing all five green orbs from the jade ruler towards Huang Gu Xu.
At this moment, Huang Gu Xu’s celestial scroll was detached, and his true essence hadn’t fully recovered. Seeing Tao Zhongwen’s relentless attack, he gritted his teeth and, without dodging, swung his whisk, sending the long strands and the bound Mei Qing towards the incoming green orbs.
Tao Zhongwen hadn’t expected Huang Gu Xu to be so ruthless, resorting to such a desperate, mutually destructive tactic. He had gone to great lengths for Mei Qing, only to be thwarted repeatedly by Huang Gu Xu’s cunning. Before he could regret it, the five green orbs collided with the whisk, creating a dazzling explosion.
The long strands of the whisk shattered, and the five orbs burst into brilliant fireworks, igniting on Mei Qing’s body.
Tao Zhongwen gritted his teeth. Even an immortal would be severely injured by such an unprotected strike. Mei Qing, restrained by Huang Gu Xu, took the full force of the attack and was likely reduced to ashes. His efforts had been in vain.
His usually smiling face now cold, Tao Zhongwen was filled with rage. Just as he was about to vent his anger, a tremendous shockwave shook the area, destabilizing his footing and causing his protective true essence to tremble. Looking up, he was astonished.
A massive golden fist emerged from the void, swinging with countless shadows, accompanied by the sound of metal winds, striking Huang Gu Xu’s jade-handled whisk. The whisk shattered into pieces, jade fragments scattering in a fierce gale.
As the wind subsided, Tao Zhongwen saw a giant bronze figure standing in the air.
The bronze figure, covered in ancient runes, radiated a deep copper glow. Standing over ten feet tall, clad in armor and a battle crown, wielding a massive sword, it looked like a deity descending, majestic and menacing.
The bronze figure let out a mournful roar, shaking even Tao Zhongwen, who staggered back dozens of feet. He glanced at Huang Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong, who also retreated, their faces filled with shock.
But Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong exchanged glances and dared not move rashly. Gezao’s seal and scroll were famous, and if Gu Xu had brought the scroll out now, it must be backed by something powerful.
Tao Zhongwen smiled slightly and said with a laugh: “Brother Huang, what are you doing? Do you think my brothers would resort to force? Since you want to keep the boy as a bargaining chip for now, we’ll comply with your wishes. Fourth Brother, we’ll take a step back. I’ll return to the capital immediately to handle the appointment of Gezao’s sect leader and your title as Celestial Master. You can stay here with Brother Huang to maintain the formation.”
Without waiting for their response, he flared his wide sleeves and soared into the sky, like a shooting star heading out of the formation.
Duan Chaoyong snorted coldly, glanced at Gu Xu, and wrapped himself in a whirlwind of black mist, vanishing instantly without a word, rolling away like a storm.
Gu Xu was greatly surprised. Why were these brothers so agreeable today, rushing away as if fleeing? As soon as the thought of “fleeing” crossed his mind, he suddenly understood. He quickly activated his true essence and cast a spell, following them outward.
At that moment, a deafening roar erupted, as if the heavens were collapsing and the earth cracking. The true essence from all directions surged wildly, suddenly becoming chaotic. Beams of water light, water arrows, golden winds, and earth stones swept across like a storm, intertwining wildly. Even someone as skilled as Gu Xu felt his inner essence waver, and the protective barrier around him struggled under the onslaught of the five elemental winds.
The formation was broken! Gu Xu inwardly cursed Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong for their treachery. His spiritual sense detected a group of high monks and dozens of cultivators breaking into the formation from outside.
Tao Zhongwen had originally set up this formation incompletely and couldn’t sustain it for long. His original intention was to catch Lu Bing and Mei Qing by surprise in one fell swoop. However, today Mei Qing and his allies proved unexpectedly strong. Zhang Yuchong and Master Ku arrived with reinforcements, making Tao Zhongwen’s supposedly foolproof plans ineffective.
Although he had used a ruse to temporarily deceive Lu Bing and Master Ku away, the formation at Yao Mansion was merely set up by a few evil cultivators. Once Master Ku and the others attacked in full force, it couldn’t hold for long. Meanwhile, Mei Qing had displayed his might, defeating Zhu Xiaoxian, making the situation increasingly unfavorable. Therefore, Tao Zhongwen was forced to deploy the Heavenly Net Formation, intending to capture Mei Qing and retreat immediately without further considerations.
Finally, his plan succeeded. Tao Zhongwen ambushed Liu Xing and subdued Zhang Yuchong. Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong successfully captured Mei Qing. But Gu Xu, blinded by greed, tried to extort him.
As the formation’s master, Tao Zhongwen had sensed the high monks breaking through the outer formation at Yao Mansion and turning to attack the Heavenly Net Formation. Thus, he abandoned the other cultivators he had invited to assist, hoping to trick Gu Xu into handing over Mei Qing before escaping, leaving the foolish Gu Xu to face the consequences.
But Gu Xu’s interference and the sudden appearance of his treasure, holding out like a stubborn dog refusing to let go, left Tao Zhongwen helpless. If he had to resort to force, even with his brother’s help, it might take some time to break through Gu Xu’s scroll. Besides, Duan Chaoyong might not cooperate wholeheartedly. After careful consideration, Tao Zhongwen decided to retreat and ensure his own safety first.
Although Gu Xu didn’t fully understand Tao Zhongwen’s intentions, he knew he had been betrayed and inwardly cursed. He activated his techniques, trying to escape quickly while the formation was still chaotic. He kept hearing the sounds of Tao Zhongwen’s allies being killed and felt pursuers closing in behind him, fueling his anger.
Gu Xu activated his true essence, throwing talismans to disrupt his pursuers. Just as he was about to relax, thinking he would escape unscathed, his spiritual sense suddenly froze. A cold, piercing sensation flashed through his heart, startling him. He quickly chanted a spell: “Chi!”
At his incantation, the scroll suddenly unfurled itself. Unfortunately, it was slightly delayed. Gu Xu’s body stiffened, and his inner essence seemed to freeze. He hurriedly activated his techniques to break free.
Gu Xu gazed at Mei Qing, trapped within the whisk, a faint smile flickering across his ruddy face before quickly vanishing. His large eyes widened as he bellowed towards the shattered remains behind Mei Qing, “This humble Daoist has engaged in a fair duel with this lad. Why have you intervened? This not only breaks the rules but also tarnishes my reputation!”
“Enough, Brother Huang. No need to put on a show in front of me. I helped you capture this lad and even lost three wooden corpses in the process. Yet you still seem dissatisfied? Stop pretending to be righteous,” a hoarse, sinister voice echoed. Suddenly, a cold wind swept up, gathering the scattered remains into a pile before they vanished, revealing a gaunt figure.
The man had sparse hair, eyes gleaming with dark light, and wore coarse hemp clothes. It was Duan Chaoyong, who had previously visited the Liu residence and retreated during the confrontation between Liu Xing and Master Bai.
Duan Chaoyong’s dark eyes flickered as he looked at Huang Gu Xu and said, “Brother Huang, one must be fair. I helped you capture Mei Qing, and the deed is done. Now, could you hand him over to me?”
Huang Gu Xu blinked a few times and gruffly replied, “That would be inconvenient. I came out of seclusion at the invitation of your senior brother. Before the battle, your senior brother made it clear that capturing this lad would be a significant merit for our Gezao sect. Now, Brother Duan, you want to snatch the credit? That seems a bit unfair.”
Duan Chaoyong laughed heartily, “Brother Huang, what are you talking about? My senior brother and I are both from the Plum Blossom Sect. There’s no difference. My senior brother is occupied with the grand formation, so I’ll take this lad. Don’t doubt me.”
Huang Gu Xu sneered, “The Plum Blossom Sect? Brother Duan, let me be frank. This operation, though your brothers intend to elevate the Plum Blossom Sect among the Daoist sects and even replace the Celestial Master of Dragon and Tiger as the leader, there’s a particular urgency to capture Mei Qing. If I’m not mistaken, this lad carries a secret of your sect, doesn’t he? Brother Duan, don’t worry. I have no intention of meddling in your sect’s affairs, but since I captured Mei Qing, I must claim this favor.”
“Brother Huang, rest assured. Once Mei Qing is in my hands, I won’t hesitate to grant you the title of Celestial Master,” a clear voice interjected. It was Tao Zhongwen, who appeared with a smile between the two.
“Brother Huang, your prowess is indeed extraordinary, achieving such a feat with ease,” Tao Zhongwen said with a beaming smile. “I keep my word. Please hand Mei Qing over to me.”
Huang Gu Xu pondered for a moment and said, “I naturally trust your words, Master Tao. However, this matter concerns the rise and fall of our sect, not just my personal affairs. Alas, I must temporarily detain this lad with Gezao. On the day the imperial decree is issued, Mei Qing will be handed over to you.”
Tao Zhongwen’s smile widened. He glanced at Duan Chaoyong and shook his head, “Fourth Brother, it seems Brother Huang still doesn’t fully trust our Plum Blossom Sect. This matter cannot be delayed. What do you think?”
Duan Chaoyong’s dark eyes dimmed, and he sighed, “You’re the senior brother. It’s your call.”
Huang Gu Xu was inwardly surprised. He had assumed the brothers were at odds, which is why he dared to remain firm between them. But now, it seemed they were uniting. Before he could think further, a scroll suddenly appeared above his head.
The scroll, seemingly made of yellow silk, was unremarkable in appearance, with a large, ancient seal on it. Unlike the immortal jade seal of Zhuo Wanchun or the whisk in Huang Gu Xu’s hand, this scroll emitted no spiritual energy, appearing as an ordinary book.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong exchanged glances, not daring to act rashly. The Gezao sect’s seal and scroll were renowned. If Huang Gu Xu brought out this scroll now, it must be significant, not an ordinary object.
Tao Zhongwen chuckled, “Brother Huang, what are you doing? Do you think we would resort to force? If you insist on holding this lad as collateral, so be it. Fourth Brother, let’s proceed. I’ll return to the capital to arrange for the Gezao sect’s leadership and your title as Celestial Master. You stay here with Brother Huang.”
Without waiting for a response, Tao Zhongwen soared into the sky, disappearing like a shooting star.
Duan Chaoyong snorted, glanced at Huang Gu Xu, and with a swirl of black wind, vanished without a word, swiftly departing.
Huang Gu Xu was astonished. Why were they so compliant today, leaving in such a hurry? The thought of “escape” struck him, and he quickly activated his true essence, following them.
Suddenly, a deafening roar echoed, and the surrounding true essence erupted violently. Water, arrows, golden winds, and earth intertwined chaotically. Even Huang Gu Xu, with his high cultivation, felt his true essence shaken, the elemental winds battering his protective barrier.
The formation had broken! Huang Gu Xu cursed Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong for their treachery. His spiritual sense detected several high monks and cultivators breaking in from outside.
Tao Zhongwen’s formation, incomplete and unsustainable, was meant to capture Lu Bing and Mei Qing swiftly. However, Mei Qing’s allies proved formidable, and with Zhang Yuchong and Master Ku arriving, Tao Zhongwen’s plan faltered.
Though Tao Zhongwen managed to deceive Lu Bing and Master Ku temporarily, the formation at the Yao residence, manned by a few evil cultivators, couldn’t withstand a full assault. Mei Qing’s prowess further tipped the scales. Desperate, Tao Zhongwen unleashed the Heavenly Net formation, aiming solely to capture Mei Qing and retreat.
Successfully ambushing Liu Xing and restraining Zhang Yuchong, Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong captured Mei Qing. But Huang Gu Xu, blinded by greed, tried to leverage the situation.
As the master of the formation, Tao Zhongwen sensed Master Ku and others breaking the outer formation. He abandoned his allies, hoping to deceive Huang Gu Xu and escape with Mei Qing, leaving Huang Gu Xu to face the consequences.
Huang Gu Xu, realizing he’d been betrayed, hurried to leave amidst the chaos. Hearing the sounds of his allies being slain and sensing pursuers, he grew furious.
Activating his true essence and deploying talismans to hinder his pursuers, Huang Gu Xu nearly escaped when a chilling sensation struck him. He chanted a spell, and the scroll unfurled.
But it was too late. Huang Gu Xu’s body froze, his true essence seemingly sealed. He struggled to break free.
Simultaneously, Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong attacked from above and below.
Tao Zhongwen wielded a jade ruler, emitting five glowing orbs that spiraled around it, casting soft light. With each flick of his left hand, an orb shot out, arcing towards Huang Gu Xu.
Duan Chaoyong, empty-handed, held a strange black bone between his palms. The bone, with several holes, emitted mournful sounds. Skeletons flew out from the holes.
Under the assault of glowing orbs and skeletons, Huang Gu Xu’s scroll displayed its power. It expanded, unfurling like a massive curtain, releasing inconspicuous runes that neutralized the orbs and skeletons.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong were impressed. Even without its master’s control, the scroll autonomously countered their attacks.
But they weren’t done. Exchanging glances, they launched another assault.
Duan Chaoyong tapped the black bone, chanting an eerie incantation. Black mist seeped from the holes, accompanied by ghostly wails, accumulating beneath the scroll.
The scroll, lacking its master’s guidance, unfurled again, descending towards the mist.
Duan Chaoyong, expression grave, continued releasing waves of mist, slowly retreating.
Tao Zhongwen, no longer smiling, saw Huang Gu Xu struggling to recover from his earlier attack. He clapped his hands, sending the five glowing orbs towards Huang Gu Xu.
Huang Gu Xu, with his scroll detached and true essence not yet restored, saw Tao Zhongwen’s intent to kill. Enraged, he gritted his teeth and, without dodging, swung his whisk, sending the long strands and the bound Mei Qing towards the glowing orbs.
Tao Zhongwen hadn’t expected Huang Gu Xu’s desperate move. He had gone to great lengths for Mei Qing, only to be thwarted by Huang Gu Xu’s cunning. As the five orbs collided with the whisk, a brilliant explosion ensued.
The whisk’s strands shattered, and the orbs burst into dazzling fireworks, striking Mei Qing.
Tao Zhongwen clenched his teeth. Even a celestial being would be severely injured by such an unprotected strike. Mei Qing, restrained by Huang Gu Xu, took the full force, likely turning to ash. His efforts had been in vain.
Furious, Tao Zhongwen’s usually smiling face turned icy. Just as he was about to vent his anger, a massive shockwave shook him, destabilizing his true essence. Looking up, he was stunned.
A giant golden fist emerged from the void, swinging with countless shadows, accompanied by the sound of metal, striking Huang Gu Xu’s jade-handled whisk, shattering it into pieces.
As the wind subsided, Tao Zhongwen saw a massive bronze figure standing in the air.
The bronze figure, adorned with ancient runes, radiated golden light. Standing over ten zhang tall, clad in armor and wielding a giant sword, it looked like a deity descending, exuding majesty and killing intent.
The bronze figure let out a mournful roar.
Even Tao Zhongwen, with his profound cultivation, felt his head buzz and his true essence falter, forcing him to retreat dozens of zhang. He glanced at Huang Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong, who also looked shocked.
Tao Zhongwen’s treasure was a jade ruler glowing with green light, surrounded by five glowing orbs that continuously orbited it, emitting soft radiance. With a flick of his left hand, one of the orbs detached from the ruler, tracing mysterious arcs as it struck Gu Xu with overwhelming force.
Duan Chaoyong, on the other hand, was empty-handed, but between his palms floated a strange piece of dry bone. The bone was black with several holes, emitting mournful whistles like weeping. With each wail, more skeletons flew out from the holes.
Trapped between the glowing orbs above and the howling skeletons below, and ambushed by Tao Zhongwen’s sudden attack, Gu Xu’s scroll finally demonstrated its treasure’s power.
The scroll suddenly unfurled, expanding to about ten feet in length, like a massive curtain. Several unremarkable talismans flew out, heading toward the glowing orbs and skeletons.
A crackling sound echoed as the orbs and skeletons were swept away by the scroll’s energy, turning into ashes that filled the air with smoke.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong couldn’t help but be amazed, thinking to themselves that indeed, this was a true treasure, capable of autonomous retaliation even without its master’s direct control.
However, Tao and Duan had long collaborated and harbored ill intentions, so they wouldn’t stop at such a simple attack. They exchanged glances and attacked again.
Duan Chaoyong lightly touched the black bone, his left hand flicking like plucking strings on a zither. He chanted a strange incantation, his voice rising and falling like a song.
Thick black mist slowly seeped from the bone’s holes, accompanied by howling winds and ghostly wails, gradually accumulating beneath the scroll.
The scroll, lacking its master’s guidance, didn’t know how to defend passively. Seeing the ghostly mist below, it unfurled again, sweeping downward.
Duan Chaoyong’s expression was serious as he kept releasing wave after wave of ghostly mist, slowly retreating while fighting.
Tao Zhongwen’s smile had long vanished. Seeing Gu Xu’s pained expression but gradually recovering from his earlier ambush, he clenched his hands together, shouted, and sent all five green orbs from the jade ruler straight at Gu Xu.
Volume 56: Breaking the Three Realms
At this moment, Gu Xu’s treasure was away from his body, and his true essence hadn’t fully recovered. Seeing Tao Zhongwen’s relentless attack, clearly intending to kill him, Gu Xu was filled with hatred. Gritting his teeth, he didn’t dodge. Instead, he swung his whisk, sending the long silk threads along with the bound Mei Qing straight toward Tao Zhongwen’s green light.
Tao Zhongwen hadn’t expected Gu Xu to be so decisive, resorting to such a desperate, all-or-nothing tactic. He had gone to great lengths just to capture Mei Qing, only to be repeatedly thwarted by this cunning old fox. By the time he wanted to regret, it was too late. The five orbs of green light, like meteors across the sky, collided head-on with Gu Xu’s whisk, instantly igniting a dazzling display of light.
Gu Xu looked at Mei Qing trapped within the whisk, a faint smile flickering across his ruddy face before quickly disappearing. His large eyes widened as he shouted gruffly towards the pile of shattered remains left by Mei Qing’s attack, “This Daoist has engaged in a fair duel with this lad. Why do you interfere? Isn’t this breaking the rules and tarnishing my reputation?”
“Enough, Brother Huang. No need to put on a show in front of me. I helped you capture this lad and even lost three wooden corpses in the process. Yet you still aren’t satisfied? Stop pretending to be righteous,” a hoarse, sinister voice echoed. Suddenly, a gust of dark wind swept up, gathering the scattered remains into a pile before they vanished, revealing a gaunt figure.
The man had sparse hair, his eyes gleaming with a dark light, and wore coarse hemp clothes. It was Duan Chaoyong, who had previously visited the Liu residence and retreated during the confrontation between Liu Xing and Master Bai.
Duan Chaoyong’s eyes flickered with dark light as he looked at Huang Gu Xu and said in a low voice, “Brother Huang, one must be fair. I helped you capture Mei Qing, and the deed is done. Why not hand him over to me?”
Huang Gu Xu blinked several times and replied gruffly, “That won’t be convenient. I came out of seclusion at the invitation of your senior brother. Before the battle, your senior brother made it clear that capturing this lad would be a great merit for our Gezao Sect. Now, Brother Duan, you want to snatch the credit? That’s not very fair.”
Duan Chaoyong laughed heartily, “Brother Huang, what are you talking about? My senior brother and I are both from the Plum Blossom Sect. There’s no difference. My senior brother is busy managing the grand formation and can’t leave, so I’ll take this lad. Don’t doubt me, Brother Huang.”
Huang Gu Xu sneered coldly, “The Plum Blossom Sect? Brother Duan, let me speak frankly. Although your brothers intend to elevate the Plum Blossom Sect to the ranks of the great Daoist sects and even replace the Celestial Master of Dragon and Tiger as the leader of the Daoist world, you seem particularly determined to capture Mei Qing. If I’m not mistaken, this lad must possess some secret of your sect, right? Brother Duan, don’t worry. I have no intention of meddling in your sect’s affairs, but since I captured Mei Qing, I must claim this favor.”
“Brother Huang, rest assured. As long as you hand Mei Qing over to me, I won’t hesitate to grant you the title of Celestial Master,” a clear voice interjected. It was Tao Zhongwen, who appeared between the two with a smile.
“Brother Huang, your divine abilities are indeed extraordinary, and your cultivation is remarkable. You’ve achieved a great feat with a single move,” Tao Zhongwen said with a beaming smile. “I always keep my word. Please hand Mei Qing over to me.”
Huang Gu Xu pondered for a moment and said, “I naturally trust your words, Master Tao. However, this matter concerns the rise and fall of our sect, not just my personal affairs. Alas, I must temporarily detain this lad in Gezao. On the day the imperial decree is issued, Mei Qing will be handed over to you.”
Tao Zhongwen’s smile widened. He glanced at Duan Chaoyong and shook his head, “Fourth Brother, it seems Brother Huang still doesn’t fully trust our Plum Blossom Sect. This matter cannot be delayed. What do you think?”
Duan Chaoyong’s dark eyes dimmed, and he sighed, “You’re the senior brother. It’s your decision.”
Huang Gu Xu was greatly surprised. He had thought the two brothers were at odds, which was why he dared to remain firm between them. He hadn’t expected them to suddenly unite. Before he could think further, he swayed, and a celestial scroll suddenly appeared above his head.
The scroll seemed to be made of yellow silk, though its material was unclear. It was a small scroll, only partially unfurled, with a massive, ancient seal inscribed on it. Unlike the immortal jade seal of Zhuo Wanchun or the whisk in Huang Gu Xu’s hand, this celestial scroll showed no spiritual fluctuations and appeared quite ordinary.
However, Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong exchanged a glance and dared not act rashly. The Gezao Sect’s seal and scroll were renowned. Since Huang Gu Xu had brought out this scroll, it must be significant, not an ordinary object.
Tao Zhongwen chuckled, “Brother Huang, what are you doing? Do you think we would resort to force? Since you insist on holding this lad as a hostage, we’ll follow your lead. In that case… Fourth Brother, let’s proceed. I’ll return to the capital immediately to arrange for the Gezao Sect’s leadership and your title as Celestial Master. You stay here and accompany Brother Huang.”
Without waiting for further discussion, Tao Zhongwen spread his sleeves and soared into the sky, streaking towards the edge of the formation like a shooting star.
Duan Chaoyong snorted coldly, glanced at Huang Gu Xu, and with a swirl of black wind, vanished without a word, swiftly departing.
Huang Gu Xu was astonished. Why were these brothers so cooperative today, leaving in such a hurry as if fleeing? The thought of “fleeing” struck him, and he quickly realized something was amiss. He immediately activated his true essence and flew outwards.
At that moment, a deafening roar echoed, and the surrounding true essence seemed to riot, stirring violently. Water, arrows, golden winds, and earth and stones intertwined like a tempest. Even someone of Huang Gu Xu’s high cultivation felt his true essence being shaken, and the elemental winds battered his protective barrier.
The formation had been broken! Huang Gu Xu silently cursed Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong for their treachery. His spiritual sense detected Master Ku and dozens of other cultivators forcefully breaking into the formation from the outside.
Tao Zhongwen’s formation had never been complete and couldn’t last long. His plan had been to capture Lu Bing and Mei Qing by surprise. However, Mei Qing’s allies proved formidable, with Zhang Yuchong and Master Ku leading the charge, rendering Tao Zhongwen’s supposedly foolproof plan ineffective.
Although Tao Zhongwen had managed to deceive Lu Bing and Master Ku temporarily, the formation at the Yao residence, set up by a few evil cultivators, couldn’t withstand a full assault from Master Ku and his allies. Meanwhile, Mei Qing had displayed immense power, defeating Zhuo Xiaoxian, worsening the situation. Thus, Tao Zhongwen had no choice but to deploy the Heavenly Net Formation, aiming solely to capture Mei Qing and retreat.
Finally, Tao Zhongwen succeeded in ambushing Liu Xing and restraining Zhang Yuchong, while Huang Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong jointly attacked Mei Qing. However, Huang Gu Xu, blinded by greed, tried to leverage the situation to his advantage.
As the master of the formation, Tao Zhongwen had sensed when Master Ku and others broke the formation at the Yao residence and turned their attention to the Heavenly Net Formation. He had intended to deceive Huang Gu Xu and escape with Mei Qing, leaving the oblivious Huang Gu Xu to face the consequences.
But Huang Gu Xu’s interference and his display of the celestial scroll forced Tao Zhongwen to reconsider. If they resorted to force, even with their combined strength, they might not break the celestial scroll quickly. Moreover, Duan Chaoyong might not fully cooperate. Thus, Tao Zhongwen decided to prioritize his own safety.
Though Huang Gu Xu didn’t fully grasp Tao Zhongwen’s intentions, he knew he had been betrayed. Silently cursing, he activated his movement technique, hoping to escape quickly amidst the chaotic true essence fluctuations. The sounds of Tao Zhongwen’s allies being killed reached his ears, and he sensed pursuers closing in, fueling his anger.
Huang Gu Xu activated his true essence and released paper talismans to hinder his pursuers. Just as he thought he was about to escape safely, his spiritual sense suddenly froze, and a bone-chilling sensation flashed through his heart. Startled, he quickly chanted, “Command!”
The celestial scroll unfurled in response to his chant. However, it was a moment too late. Huang Gu Xu’s body stiffened as his true essence seemed to freeze. He desperately activated his cultivation technique to break free.
At the same time, Tao Zhongwen attacked from above, and Duan Chaoyong from below, each wielding their magical instruments.
Tao Zhongwen’s instrument was a jade ruler, glowing with a soft green light, with five orbs orbiting it. With a flick of his left hand, one orb would fly out, tracing mysterious arcs as it struck towards Huang Gu Xu.
Duan Chaoyong, on the other hand, held nothing in his hands. Instead, a strange, blackened bone floated between his palms. The bone had several holes emitting mournful wails. As the wails continued, one skeleton after another flew out from the holes.
With light orbs above and skeletons below, Huang Gu Xu, caught off guard by Tao Zhongwen’s sneak attack, relied on the celestial scroll’s power.
The scroll suddenly trembled, expanding to over ten feet long like a massive curtain. With a single roll, several inconspicuous runes detached and flew towards the light orbs and skeletons.
A series of crackling sounds followed as the light orbs and skeletons turned to ash under the scroll’s power, forming a cloud of smoke.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong were secretly impressed. Even without its master’s control, the celestial scroll could autonomously counterattack with such power.
However, the two brothers, having long conspired together, wouldn’t stop there. With a glance, they prepared to attack again.
Duan Chaoyong gently tapped the black bone, his left hand moving like a musician playing a stringed instrument. He chanted a strange incantation, his voice mournful.
Layer upon layer of black mist gradually seeped from the bone’s holes, accompanied by the howling of ghosts and eerie laughter. The mist accumulated beneath the celestial scroll.
The scroll, lacking its master’s guidance, didn’t know to remain still. Seeing the ghostly mist below, it unfurled and descended towards it.
Duan Chaoyong, with a grave expression, continued to release waves of ghostly mist, slowly retreating as he fought.
Tao Zhongwen, no longer smiling, saw Huang Gu Xu in pain but gradually recovering from his sneak attack. He clapped his hands together and, with a shout, sent the five green orbs from his jade ruler flying towards Huang Gu Xu.
Huang Gu Xu, with his celestial scroll detached and his true essence not yet recovered, saw Tao Zhongwen’s intent to kill. Filled with hatred, he gritted his teeth and, without dodging, swung his whisk, sending its long strands and the bound Mei Qing towards the incoming green orbs.
Tao Zhongwen hadn’t expected Huang Gu Xu to be so resolute, resorting to such a desperate, mutually destructive tactic. He had gone to great lengths for Mei Qing, only to be thwarted repeatedly by Huang Gu Xu’s cunning. Before he could regret his actions, the five green orbs collided with Huang Gu Xu’s whisk, creating a dazzling explosion.
The long strands of the whisk shattered, and the green orbs burst into brilliant fireworks, striking Mei Qing.
Tao Zhongwen gritted his teeth. Even an immortal would suffer severe injuries from such an unprotected attack. Mei Qing, restrained by Huang Gu Xu, had taken the full force of his strike and would likely turn to ash. His efforts had been in vain.
His usually smiling face now cold, Tao Zhongwen felt a surge of anger. Just as he was about to vent his fury, a tremendous shockwave shook the area, destabilizing him and causing his protective true essence to tremble. Looking up, he was shocked.
A massive golden fist emerged from the void, swinging through the air with the sound of metal clashing. It struck Huang Gu Xu’s jade-handled whisk, shattering it into pieces and scattering jade fragments everywhere.
As the wind subsided, Tao Zhongwen saw a giant bronze figure standing in the air.
The bronze figure, covered in ancient runes, radiated a deep copper glow. Standing over ten feet tall, clad in armor and a war helmet, it wielded a massive sword, resembling a deity descending from heaven, exuding an aura of majesty and killing intent.
The bronze figure, steadying itself, let out a mournful roar.
Even Tao Zhongwen, with his profound cultivation, felt his head ring and his legs weaken at the sound. He staggered back dozens of feet, exchanging shocked glances with Huang Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong, who had also retreated.
Tao Zhongwen clenched his teeth in frustration. Even a perfected immortal would suffer severe injuries from such an unprotected strike. Mei Qing, restrained by Gu Xu, had taken the full force of his attack with his bare body. Tao Zhongwen feared he had just reduced everything to ashes, gaining nothing from his efforts.
His face, usually smiling, was now cold with fury. Just as he was about to vent his anger, a massive fluctuation suddenly surged through the battlefield, shaking him so violently that he struggled to maintain his footing and his protective essence quivered. When he focused his vision, he was stunned.
Gu Xu looked at Mei Qing trapped within the whisk, a faint smile flickering across his jujube-red face before quickly disappearing. His large eyes widened as he shouted gruffly towards the pile of shattered remains behind Mei Qing, “I had a fair duel with this lad. Why did you interfere? You’ve broken the rules and tarnished my reputation!”
“Enough, Brother Huang. No need to put on a show in front of me. I helped you capture this lad and even lost three wooden corpses in the process. Yet you’re still not satisfied? Stop pretending to be righteous,” a hoarse, sinister voice echoed. Suddenly, a cold wind swept up, gathering the scattered remains into a pile before they vanished, revealing a gaunt figure.
The man had sparse hair, eyes gleaming with dark light, and wore coarse hemp clothes. It was Duan Chaoyong, who had previously visited the Liu residence and retreated during the confrontation between Liu Xing and Master Bai.
Duan Chaoyong’s dark eyes flickered as he looked at Huang Gu Xu and said, “Brother Huang, one must be fair. I helped you capture Mei Qing, and the deed is done. Why not hand him over to me?”
Huang Gu Xu blinked a few times and replied gruffly, “That’s inconvenient. I came out of seclusion at the invitation of your senior brother. Before the battle, he made it clear that capturing this lad would be a great merit for our Gezao sect. Now, Brother Duan, you’re trying to snatch the credit. Isn’t that a bit unfair?”
Duan Chaoyong laughed, “Brother Huang, what are you talking about? My senior brother and I are both from the Plum Blossom Sect. There’s no difference. My senior brother is busy with the grand formation, so I’ll take this lad. Don’t doubt me.”
Huang Gu Xu sneered, “The Plum Blossom Sect? Brother Duan, let me be frank. This operation, though your sect aims to elevate the Plum Blossom Sect among the Taoist sects and even replace the Celestial Master of Dragon and Tiger as the leader, you seem particularly intent on capturing Mei Qing. If I’m not mistaken, this lad must possess some secret of your sect, right? Don’t worry, I have no intention of meddling in your sect’s affairs. But since I captured Mei Qing, I’ll claim this favor.”
“Brother Huang, rest assured. If you hand Mei Qing over to me, I won’t hesitate to grant you the title of Celestial Master,” a clear voice interrupted. It was Tao Zhongwen, who appeared between the two with a smile.
“Brother Huang, your skills are indeed extraordinary. You’ve achieved a great feat,” Tao Zhongwen said with a beaming smile. “I keep my word. Please hand Mei Qing over to me.”
Huang Gu Xu pondered for a moment and said, “I naturally trust your words, Master Tao. But this matter concerns the rise and fall of our sect, not just my personal affairs. Alas, I’ll have to keep Mei Qing in Gezao’s custody for now. When the imperial decree for Gezao’s reward is issued, I’ll deliver Mei Qing to you.”
Tao Zhongwen’s smile widened. He glanced at Duan Chaoyong and shook his head, “Fourth Brother, it seems Brother Huang still doesn’t fully trust our Plum Blossom Sect. This matter cannot be delayed. What do you think?”
Duan Chaoyong’s dark eyes dimmed, and he sighed, “You’re the senior brother. It’s your call.”
Huang Gu Xu was surprised. He had thought the two brothers were at odds, which was why he dared to stand firm between them. But now, they seemed to be joining forces. Before he could think further, a scroll suddenly appeared above his head.
The scroll, made of yellow silk, was unremarkable in appearance, with no spiritual aura. It was a small scroll, barely unfurled, with a large, ancient seal on it. Unlike the immortal jade seal of Zhuo Wanchun or the whisk in Huang Gu Xu’s hand, this scroll seemed ordinary.
But Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong exchanged glances and dared not act rashly. The Gezao sect’s seal and scroll were renowned. If Huang Gu Xu brought out this scroll now, it must be significant.
Tao Zhongwen chuckled, “Brother Huang, what are you doing? Do you think we’d resort to force? If you insist on keeping Mei Qing as a hostage, so be it. Fourth Brother, let’s proceed. I’ll return to the capital to arrange for Gezao’s leadership and your title as Celestial Master. You stay here with Brother Huang.”
Without waiting for a response, Tao Zhongwen soared into the sky and flew out of the formation like a shooting star.
Duan Chaoyong snorted, glanced at Huang Gu Xu, and vanished in a swirl of black wind, leaving without a word.
Huang Gu Xu was puzzled. Why were they so compliant today, leaving in such a hurry? The thought of “escape” struck him, and he quickly activated his true essence to follow.
Suddenly, a deafening roar echoed, and the surrounding true essence erupted violently. Water, arrows, wind, and earth surged wildly, creating a chaotic storm. Even Huang Gu Xu, with his high cultivation, felt his true essence shaken, and his protective barrier strained under the assault.
The formation had broken! Huang Gu Xu cursed Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong for their treachery. He sensed that Master Ku and other cultivators were breaking into the formation from outside.
Tao Zhongwen’s formation was incomplete and couldn’t last long. His plan was to capture Lu Bing and Mei Qing by surprise. But Mei Qing’s allies proved formidable, and Zhang Yuchong and Master Ku arrived, thwarting Tao Zhongwen’s scheme.
Though Tao Zhongwen had temporarily deceived Lu Bing and Master Ku, the formation at the Yao residence, manned by a few evil cultivators, couldn’t withstand a full assault. Mei Qing’s prowess worsened the situation, forcing Tao Zhongwen to deploy the Heavenly Net formation, aiming solely to capture Mei Qing and retreat.
Finally succeeding, Tao Zhongwen ambushed Liu Xing and detained Zhang Yuchong, while Huang Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong captured Mei Qing. But Huang Gu Xu, blinded by greed, tried to extort Tao Zhongwen.
As the master of the formation, Tao Zhongwen sensed when Master Ku and others broke the Yao residence’s formation and turned to attack the Heavenly Net. He abandoned his allies, hoping to deceive Huang Gu Xu and escape with Mei Qing, leaving Huang Gu Xu to face the consequences.
But Huang Gu Xu’s interference and his display of the scroll left Tao Zhongwen with no choice. If they fought, even with Duan Chaoyong’s help, they might not break the scroll’s power. Reluctantly, Tao Zhongwen decided to retreat and save himself.
Though Huang Gu Xu didn’t fully understand Tao Zhongwen’s intentions, he knew he’d been betrayed. He activated his techniques, trying to escape amidst the chaotic true essence. Hearing the sounds of his allies being killed and sensing pursuers behind him, he grew increasingly furious.
Huang Gu Xu released talismans to hinder his pursuers and was about to escape when a sudden, icy sensation struck him. He quickly chanted, “Command!”
The scroll unfurled, but it was too late. Huang Gu Xu felt his true essence freeze, and he struggled to break free.
At the same time, Tao Zhongwen attacked from above, and Duan Chaoyong from below, each wielding their magical tools.
Tao Zhongwen’s jade ruler emitted five glowing orbs that spun around it, casting soft light. With each twist of his hand, an orb flew out, arcing towards Huang Gu Xu.
Duan Chaoyong, empty-handed, held a strange black bone between his palms. The bone, with several holes, emitted mournful sounds. From these holes, skeletons emerged one after another.
Under the assault of glowing orbs and skeletons, Huang Gu Xu’s scroll displayed its power. It expanded into a massive curtain, releasing subtle runes that neutralized the orbs and skeletons, turning them into ash.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong were impressed by the scroll’s autonomous defense. But they had long planned their attack and weren’t deterred.
Duan Chaoyong tapped the black bone, chanting a strange incantation. Black mist seeped from the holes, accompanied by eerie sounds, accumulating beneath the scroll.
The scroll, lacking its master’s guidance, unfurled and attacked the mist.
Duan Chaoyong, with a grave expression, released waves of mist, retreating slowly.
Tao Zhongwen, no longer smiling, saw Huang Gu Xu struggling to recover from his earlier attack. He clapped his hands, releasing the five glowing orbs towards Huang Gu Xu.
Huang Gu Xu, with his scroll detached and true essence not yet recovered, saw Tao Zhongwen’s intent to kill. He gritted his teeth, refusing to dodge, and instead used his whisk, along with the bound Mei Qing, to block the orbs.
Tao Zhongwen hadn’t expected Huang Gu Xu’s desperate move. He had gone to great lengths for Mei Qing, only to be thwarted by Huang Gu Xu’s cunning. As the five orbs collided with the whisk, a brilliant explosion ensued.
The whisk’s strands shattered, and the orbs exploded on Mei Qing, who, restrained by Huang Gu Xu, bore the full brunt of the attack.
Tao Zhongwen clenched his teeth. Even an immortal would be severely injured by such an unprotected strike. Mei Qing, bound and defenseless, would surely turn to ash. His efforts had been in vain.
His usually smiling face turned cold with rage. Just as he was about to vent his anger, a massive shockwave shook the area, destabilizing his true essence. He looked up in shock.
A giant golden fist emerged from the void, striking Huang Gu Xu’s jade-handled whisk, shattering it into pieces.
As the dust settled, a massive bronze figure stood in the air.
The bronze figure, adorned with ancient runes, radiated golden light. Standing over ten meters tall, clad in armor and wielding a giant sword, it looked like a deity descending from heaven, exuding awe and menace.
The bronze figure let out a mournful roar.
Even Tao Zhongwen, with his profound cultivation, felt his head ring and his true essence falter, forcing him to retreat. He glanced at Huang Gu Xu and Duan Chaoyong, who were equally shocked.
As the wind subsided and the dust cleared, Tao Zhongwen was astonished to see a giant bronze figure standing in the air.
The bronze figure was covered in deep, ancient runes, radiating golden light. It was over ten zhang tall, wearing armor and a battle crown, holding a massive sword. Against the backdrop of the scattered radiant light, it looked like a celestial being descending to the mortal world, majestic and brimming with killing intent.
As soon as the bronze figure stabilized, it tilted its head back and let out a mournful, chilling roar.
Despite Tao Zhongwen’s formidable cultivation, the sudden roar made his head ring, his legs wobble, and his true essence surge chaotically. He stumbled backward dozens of zhang. Turning his head, he saw Huang Guxu and Duan Chaoyong retreating alongside him, their faces equally filled with shock.
The bronze giant’s roar had just ended when it slowly turned its massive head toward the three men with an expressionless face. The giant sword in its hand let out a sharp ring as it was raised high into the air. The towering black silhouette of the sword blocked out the sunlight, casting a shadow over the trio and making its presence even more awe-inspiring.
“Not good!” Tao Zhongwen shouted loudly, “Join forces!”
Huang Guxu and Duan Chaoyong beside him immediately understood Tao Zhongwen’s meaning. This bronze figure must be closely tied to Mei Qing. Now, the bronze giant clearly regarded the three of them as enemies. Given its overwhelming might, unless the three of them joined forces, they would have no chance at all. If internal conflict broke out again, they would certainly be unable to resist the bronze giant.
Realizing this, Huang Guxu and Duan Chaoyong simultaneously let out a fierce shout, each summoning their magical artifacts. Several talismanic symbols appeared in the air, and without prior agreement, all three immediately unleashed their strongest defensive techniques.
Huang Guxu naturally summoned the Celestial Book once again. Now fully activated, the book unfolded in midair, emitting a brilliant golden glow. A peculiar, vivid red talismanic symbol appeared in the air, glowing brightly. The red symbol gradually gathered into a beam of crimson light, which condensed at its tip into a droplet of liquid like divine dew, trickling down to form a golden halo around Huang Guxu. The halo rotated in waves, reflecting Huang Guxu’s tall figure and golden Daoist robe, making him appear like a radiant golden figure.
Compared to Huang Guxu’s dazzling golden light, Tao Zhongwen’s method was much simpler.
He threw his jade ruler into the air, then swept his left palm across it. Five glowing orbs appeared on the ruler’s surface. Then, Tao Zhongwen’s figure became as insubstantial as a willow swaying in the wind, turning hazy and indistinct, like a transparent phantom, wavering unsteadily, as if his spirit had attached itself to the ruler.
As for Duan Chaoyong, he shouted and summoned forth a thick black mist, from which several enormous skeletons emerged, forming a ghostly bone array that exuded waves of dark smoke, concealing him within.
Although each of the three men used different techniques, as masters of their craft, they naturally had their own methods. Immediately, Huang Guxu moved forward, Tao Zhongwen ascended into the air, and Duan Chaoyong took the rear, forming a vague Heaven-Man-Earth formation. Their energies connected, giving the impression of an immovable, rock-solid formation.
The bronze giant appeared slow in its advance, but in reality moved with incredible speed. As soon as the three completed their formations, a deafening metallic sound filled the air, and a black shadow descended. The massive copper sword radiated strange sword auras and emitted a terrifying “wailing” sound, rushing downward with the force of splitting Mount Hua.
As the copper sword approached, Huang Guxu’s Celestial Book reacted instantly, responding without command. It suddenly let out a sharp sound, unfurling rapidly with a burst of golden light.
The strange talismanic symbol above the Celestial Book emitted an even thicker beam of light, and the divine dew droplets below flowed like a rushing stream, forming waves that rippled outward, creating wave-like shadows in the air.
Across the extended scroll of the book, strange patterns and characters gradually became visible, each emitting different kinds of energy—some fierce, others gentle. Each energy stream seemed to carry the essence of life, narrating the varied experiences of its long existence.
The bronze statue’s roar finally ceased, and it slowly turned its massive head, expressionlessly gazing at the three men. With a sharp clang, the giant sword in its hand was raised high, casting a towering black shadow that blotted out the sunlight, enveloping the trio and amplifying its overwhelming presence.
“Not good!” Tao Zhongwen shouted, “Join forces!”
Huang Guxu and Duan Chaoyong beside him immediately understood Tao’s intent. This bronze statue was undoubtedly connected to Mei Qing. Now, it clearly regarded the three of them as enemies. Given the statue’s formidable presence, their only chance of survival was to unite. If they turned on each other, they would stand no chance against the bronze colossus.
With this realization, Huang Guxu and Duan Chaoyong simultaneously let out a fierce cry, each summoning their magical artifacts. As several talismans lit up, the three men, without hesitation, unleashed their strongest defensive measures.
Huang Guxu naturally summoned the Celestial Scroll. At this moment, he exerted his full power, and the scroll unfurled in mid-air. A burst of golden light erupted, and a vivid, crimson talisman appeared in the sky. The bright red talisman gradually coalesced into a beam of red light, which at its tip condensed into droplets of divine dew, trickling down and forming a golden halo around Huang Guxu. The halo spun around him, illuminating his tall figure and golden Daoist robe, making him appear like a radiant golden statue.
Compared to Huang Guxu’s dazzling display, Tao Zhongwen’s approach was much simpler.
He tossed his jade ruler into the air, brushing it with his left palm. Five orbs of light immediately appeared on the ruler’s surface. Tao Zhongwen’s body then became as ethereal as a willow swaying in the wind, transforming into a translucent figure that seemed to float unsteadily, as if a mere shadow attached to the ruler.
As for Duan Chaoyong, he let out a shout, and a cloud of black mist rose, forming a ghastly bone array composed of several massive skeletons. The array emitted waves of black smoke, enveloping him within.
Though each of the three men acted independently, as masters of their craft, they naturally had their own methods. Huang Guxu moved forward, Tao Zhongwen ascended into the air, and Duan Chaoyong remained below, subtly forming a Three Talents Formation. Their energies interconnected, creating a sense of unshakable stability.
The bronze statue’s approach seemed slow, but in reality, it was incredibly swift. Just as the three men had barely begun their preparations, a deafening metallic clang echoed through the air, and the massive bronze sword, enveloped in a strange aura of sword energy, descended with a terrifying “whoosh,” aiming to cleave through Mount Hua.
As the bronze sword approached, the Celestial Scroll reacted instinctively, without Huang Guxu’s command. It suddenly unfurled with a loud “snap,” and a brilliant golden light erupted.
The strange talisman above the scroll emitted an even thicker beam of light, and the droplets of divine dew beneath it surged like a rushing stream, forming waves that stirred ripples in the surrounding air.
On the unfurled scroll, various strange symbols and characters gradually became clear, each emitting either violent or gentle auras. Each aura seemed to possess a life of its own, narrating the myriad experiences it had accumulated over its long existence.
When these auras clashed with the bronze sword in the statue’s hand, a series of wondrous transformations occurred.
At times, it was like a galloping horse charging across a plain; at others, like waves crashing against rocks in the Yangtze River. In moments of violence, it resembled a volcanic eruption; in moments of calm, it was like a gentle spring. The sword and the scroll seemed to intertwine, yet also to rely on each other. When the sword and the scroll first made contact, instead of the expected explosive collision, it felt more like two old friends engaging in a profound discussion. The unfolding changes were akin to two armies clashing, with tactics shifting rapidly, yet leaving no trace.
However, this stalemate lasted only for a brief moment. Behind the bronze sword stood the immense ancient bronze warrior, while behind the Celestial Scroll, Huang Guxu’s strength was far inferior. Thus, it wasn’t long before the scroll’s golden light dimmed, showing signs of faltering.
At this critical moment, Tao Zhongwen’s jade ruler and Duan Chaoyong’s black mist suddenly unleashed their full power.
The jade ruler swayed repeatedly, and with each sway, a glowing orb about a foot in size rose and merged into the Celestial Scroll.
Each orb, upon contact with the scroll, vanished without a trace, like dew absorbed into the skin. Yet, with each orb, the scroll’s light grew brighter.
Meanwhile, Duan Chaoyong’s black mist did not directly aid the scroll but instead attached itself to the tip of the bronze sword.
As soon as the mist touched the sword, it began to fade. However, it was continuously replenished, fading only to be replaced, until after three breaths, it finally dissipated, exhausted.
With the aid of the jade ruler’s orbs and the black mist, the Celestial Scroll managed to stabilize the situation.
The bronze warrior grew increasingly impatient. It pressed down with its sword repeatedly, but could make no further progress. Suddenly, its brows furrowed, and it let out a deafening roar, “Jiang Ang!” Taking a massive step forward, it crossed several meters in an instant. Its empty left hand reached out toward the Celestial Scroll, which was still locked in a struggle with the bronze sword.
The giant hand, as large as a house, with fingers like mountain peaks, clenched and unclenched. The three men were fully occupied with resisting the sword, and the scroll was entangled in the struggle, leaving no strength to deal with the hand. In an instant, the giant hand seized the scroll.
The bronze warrior stood proudly like a mountain, its left hand and right sword moving in unison. It let out another roar, spewing a cloud of white mist.
The metallic aura was sharp and deadly. Now, with the bronze warrior enraged, this killing intent forced even those far away to retreat. How could the three men in the field withstand it? With a few muffled groans, Tao Zhongwen’s jade ruler was knocked back, and Duan Chaoyong’s black mist was so weakened by the blow that his form became faint and unsteady.
Huang Guxu, who bore the brunt of the attack, was sent flying like a withered autumn leaf. Blood gushed from his mouth, and the golden light above his head dimmed. The blow nearly shattered his true essence. Meanwhile, the Celestial Scroll, caught between the sword, the hand, and the mist, let out a horrifying wail. With a sickening “crack,” it split in two, and bright red blood, as if from a living person cut in half, sprayed into the air, raining down in a bloody shower that stained the ground red and burned small craters into the earth.
Huang Guxu let out a scream. Mid-air, he felt as if his internal organs were on fire, his true essence running wild. His body felt like an old house with crumbling walls, battered by a northeast wind. The realization that the Celestial Scroll, which he had always relied upon, had been destroyed by the bronze warrior caused his golden core to shatter. Blood surged to his heart, and he immediately lost consciousness.
The bronze warrior, relentless, took a massive step forward. Its giant sword, now empowered by the destruction of the scroll, swung down in a blur, aiming to cleave Huang Guxu’s falling body in two.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong couldn’t help but let out a mournful sigh, feeling a sense of shared doom. What they had thought was a foolproof plan had somehow led to this disastrous outcome.
However, the expected scene of the sword falling and blood spraying did not occur. Just as the bronze sword was about to touch Huang Guxu’s body, the massive figure of the bronze warrior suddenly became ethereal. A gentle breeze arose, and with a metallic “clang,” the bronze warrior vanished as suddenly as it had appeared. Only Mei Qing remained, unconscious on the ground, with a small bronze statue lying beside him.
Overjoyed, Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong hesitated for a moment before each summoning their magical artifacts and reaching out to grab the motionless Mei Qing.
In the blink of an eye, a jade ruler and a cloud of black mist were already hovering above Mei Qing’s body.
It was as if horses galloped across a plain, charging forward freely; or like the Yangtze River crashing against rocks, water and stone colliding. At times it was as fierce as a volcanic eruption, at others as gentle as a quiet spring. The energies intertwined, seemingly connected yet separate. When the sword and the book first met, there was none of the expected violent clash that the others had imagined. Instead, it seemed as if two old friends were engaging in a discussion, displaying a variety of transformations. It was like two armies facing off, changing formations repeatedly, yet leaving no discernible pattern.
However, this stalemate lasted only briefly. Behind the sword was the massive ancient armored bronze giant, while behind the Celestial Book was Huang Guxu, whose power was far inferior. Soon, the golden light of the Celestial Book began to dim, showing signs of being overwhelmed.
At this critical moment, Tao Zhongwen’s jade ruler and Duan Chaoyong’s black mist suddenly surged forth in unison.
The jade ruler swayed again and again, and with each sway, a glowing orb about a foot in size rose into the air and flew into the Celestial Book.
Each orb, upon contact with the book, vanished instantly, like dew absorbed into parched hands. But with each absorption, the Celestial Book’s glow brightened significantly.
Duan Chaoyong’s black mist did not directly reinforce the Celestial Book but instead adhered to the tip of the bronze sword.
As soon as the black mist touched the sword, it weakened slightly. However, it continued to pour forth endlessly, compensating for every bit of dissipation. This continued for three heartbeats before finally running out of strength and dispersing.
With the combined support of the jade ruler’s orbs and the black mist, the Celestial Book finally stabilized the situation.
The bronze giant grew impatient. It pressed down again and again with its copper sword but could not advance even an inch. Suddenly, it furrowed its brows, opened its enormous mouth wide, and let out a thunderous roar. Then, taking a massive step forward, covering several zhang in an instant, it extended its free left hand toward the Celestial Book locked in battle with its sword.
The giant hand was the size of a small house, fingers like mountain peaks. As the three men were fully engaged in resisting the sword, and the Celestial Book was entangled in the struggle, they had no spare strength to deal with this new threat. In an instant, the Celestial Book was seized in the giant’s palm.
The bronze giant stood immovable like a mountain, wielding sword in one hand and palm in the other. With a mighty roar, it exhaled a stream of blinding white energy.
This golden energy was the essence of destruction, extremely sharp and piercing. Now fueled by the giant’s fury, the killing aura forced even those far away to retreat in fear. How could the three in the center withstand it?
The bronze statue finished its roar and slowly turned its massive head, expressionlessly gazing at the three men. The giant sword in its hand let out a sharp whistle as it was raised high, its towering black shadow eclipsing the sunlight and enveloping the trio, making its imposing presence even more overwhelming.
“Not good!” Tao Zhongwen shouted, “Join forces!”
Huang Guxu and Duan Chaoyong, standing beside him, immediately understood Tao’s meaning. This bronze statue was undoubtedly connected to Mei Qing. At this moment, the statue clearly regarded the three of them as enemies. Given the statue’s overwhelming power, unless the three of them united, they would have no chance of fighting back. If they started infighting, they would be utterly powerless against the bronze statue.
Thinking this, Huang Guxu and Duan Chaoyong simultaneously let out a fierce shout, each summoning their magical artifacts. As several talismanic symbols appeared, the three of them, without prior agreement, all brought out their strongest defensive measures.
Huang Guxu naturally summoned the Heavenly Scroll. At this moment, he exerted his full power, and the scroll unfurled in mid-air. A burst of golden light emerged, and a vivid, blood-red talismanic symbol appeared in the sky. The crimson symbol gradually coalesced into a beam of red light, which at its end condensed into a liquid resembling divine dew, trickling down and forming a golden halo around Huang Guxu. The halo rotated around him, illuminating his tall figure and golden Taoist robe, making him appear like a glowing golden man.
Compared to Huang Guxu’s radiant golden light, Tao Zhongwen’s approach was much simpler.
He tossed his jade ruler into the air and brushed his left palm over it. Immediately, five glowing orbs reappeared on the ruler’s surface. Then, Tao Zhongwen’s figure became as ethereal as a willow swaying in the wind, almost transparent and unstable, like a phantom attached to the ruler.
As for Duan Chaoyong, he let out a shout, and a cloud of black mist emerged. Several massive skeletons formed a ghastly white bone array, emitting waves of black smoke that enveloped him.
Although the three of them acted independently, as masters of their craft, they naturally had their own methods. Huang Guxu moved forward, Tao Zhongwen ascended into the air, and Duan Chaoyong stayed below, subtly forming a three-talents formation, their energies interconnected, exuding an unshakable stability.
The bronze statue, though seemingly slow, was actually extremely fast. Just as the three of them finished their preparations, a loud metallic sound echoed in the air, and the shadow of the giant bronze sword loomed overhead. The sword emitted a strange sword aura, accompanied by a terrifying “whooshing” sound, and descended with the force of splitting Mount Hua.
As the bronze sword approached, the Heavenly Scroll immediately reacted. Without Huang Guxu’s command, it suddenly unfurled with a loud “crack,” and a brilliant golden light burst forth.
The strange talismanic symbol above the scroll emitted an even thicker beam of light, and the divine dew beneath it surged like a stream, forming waves that stirred up ripples around it.
On the unfurled scroll, various strange patterns and characters gradually became clear, each emitting either violent or gentle auras. Each aura seemed like a living entity, narrating its different experiences throughout its long life.
When these auras clashed with the bronze sword in the statue’s hand, a myriad of wondrous changes occurred.
Sometimes it was like galloping across a plain, charging forward unimpeded; other times it was like battling waves on the Yangtze River, water striking against stone. At times it was as violent as a volcanic eruption, and at others as gentle as a trickling spring. The sword and the scroll seemed to intertwine, yet also seemed to rely on each other. When the sword and the scroll first made contact, instead of the expected violent collision, it felt more like two old friends engaging in a profound discussion. The unfolding changes were like two armies clashing, constantly shifting, yet leaving no trace.
However, this stalemate lasted only for a moment. Behind the bronze sword was the massive ancient bronze warrior, while behind the Heavenly Scroll, Huang Guxu’s strength was far inferior. Thus, it wasn’t long before the golden light of the scroll dimmed, showing signs of faltering.
At this moment, Tao Zhongwen’s jade ruler and Duan Chaoyong’s black mist suddenly unleashed their power.
The jade ruler swayed repeatedly, and with each sway, a glowing orb about a foot in size rose and merged into the Heavenly Scroll.
Each orb, upon touching the scroll, disappeared without a trace, but the light of the scroll grew noticeably brighter.
Duan Chaoyong’s black mist did not directly assist the scroll but instead attached itself to the tip of the bronze sword.
As soon as the black mist touched the sword, it immediately thinned. However, it continuously replenished itself, thinning and then thickening again. After three breaths, it finally dissipated, having exhausted its energy.
With the assistance of the jade ruler’s orbs and the black mist, the Heavenly Scroll managed to stabilize the situation.
The bronze statue grew increasingly impatient. It pressed down with its sword repeatedly but could no longer gain an inch. Suddenly, its eyebrows furrowed, and it let out a deafening roar. It took a massive step forward, covering several meters, and its empty left hand reached out to grab the Heavenly Scroll, which was still locked in a struggle with its sword.
The giant hand, as large as a house, with fingers like mountain peaks, clenched tightly. The three men were fully occupied with resisting the sword, and the scroll was entangled in the struggle. They had no strength left to deal with this giant hand, and in an instant, the scroll was seized.
The bronze statue stood proudly like a mountain, its left hand and right sword moving simultaneously. It let out another thunderous roar, spewing out a vast cloud of white gas.
The metallic energy was the essence of slaughter, sharp and deadly. Now, with the bronze statue acting in anger, this killing aura forced even those far away to retreat. The three men in the field had no way to withstand it. A few muffled groans were heard as the jade ruler was struck and sent flying backward. Duan Chaoyong’s black mist, under this blow, thinned to the point of revealing his figure, teetering on the brink of collapse.
Huang Guxu, bearing the brunt of the attack, was like a withered leaf in autumn, blood gushing from his mouth. The golden light above his head dimmed, and this blow nearly shattered his true essence. The Heavenly Scroll, under the simultaneous assault of the sword, the hand, and the gas, let out a horrifying wail. With a loud “crack,” it split in two, and bright red blood, as if from a living person being cut in half, sprayed out from mid-air, forming a rain of blood that stained the ground with crimson patches. The blood then sizzled and burned, creating small pits in the ground.
Huang Guxu let out a scream. In mid-air, he felt as if his internal organs were burning, his true essence running wild. His body was like an old house with crumbling walls, scattered by the northeast wind. He also felt the Heavenly Scroll, which he had always relied upon, being destroyed by the bronze statue. Instantly, his golden core shattered, and his heart’s blood surged upward, causing him to faint on the spot.
The bronze statue, not content with its victory, took a massive step forward. Its giant sword, empowered by the destruction of the scroll, swung down in a blur, aiming to cleave Huang Guxu’s falling body in two.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong, witnessing this, couldn’t help but let out a mournful sigh. They had thought their plan was foolproof, but they never expected it to end like this.
However, the expected scene of the sword falling and blood spraying did not occur. Just as the sword was about to touch Huang Guxu’s body, the bronze statue’s massive figure suddenly became ethereal. A gentle breeze arose, and with a sharp “clang,” the bronze statue, just as it had suddenly appeared, vanished just as suddenly. Only Mei Qing remained, unconscious on the ground, with a small bronze statue lying beside him.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong were overjoyed. After a moment of shock, they each summoned their magical artifacts and reached out to grab Mei Qing, who lay motionless on the ground.
In the blink of an eye, a jade ruler and a cloud of black mist were already hovering above Mei Qing’s body.
Huang Guxu, bearing the brunt of the attack, was like a dying autumn leaf, blood bursting from his mouth. The golden light above his head dimmed rapidly, and his true essence nearly scattered. The Celestial Book, caught between the sword, palm, and breath of the bronze giant, let out a piercing shriek. With a “crack,” it split in two. Fresh blood, like that of a severed living being, sprayed from the middle, forming a crimson rain that dyed the ground red and sizzled upon contact, leaving scorched pits in the earth.
Huang Guxu cried out in anguish, feeling his internal organs torn apart midair as his true essence ran wild. His body felt like an old house with broken walls, battered by northern winds from all directions. Feeling the destruction of the Celestial Book, the foundation of his cultivation, his golden core shattered, blood surged to his heart, and he immediately lost consciousness.
The bronze giant seized the advantage relentlessly, taking a giant step forward. With the momentum of shattering the book, it swung its massive sword downward in a blur, aiming to cleave Huang Guxu’s falling body in two.
Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong, witnessing this, could not help but cry out in shared grief. They had thought their plan was foolproof, yet never imagined it would end in such disaster.
However, the expected scene of sword cleaving flesh and blood spraying did not occur. At the very moment the blade was about to strike Huang Guxu, the bronze giant’s massive form suddenly became ethereal. Then, with a light breeze, a metallic ring echoed through the air. Just as suddenly as it had appeared, the bronze giant vanished, leaving only Mei Qing unconscious on the ground, beside whom lay a tiny bronze figure.
Overjoyed, Tao Zhongwen and Duan Chaoyong, after a moment of shock, simultaneously acted, each summoning their magical artifacts to seize Mei Qing, who lay motionless on the ground.
In an instant, the jade ruler and the black mist swiftly descended upon Mei Qing’s body.
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