Zhi Sao stood in the main hall of the Zhi Clan, looking at the several elders gathered before him. The pressure in the room was heavy, everyone realized that the threat of the Purple Heaven Sect was still hanging over their heads."We can't rely on Zhi Hao to take care of everything," Zhi Sao said firmly. “He has already encountered too many dangers. We need the protection of allies to maintain the stability of the Zhi Clan temporarily.”One of the elders, Zhi Yuan, nodded. "The Dawn Dusk Sect is the best choice. Our relationship with them is not close, but we have enough reasons to ask for their help."“Exactly,” answered Zhi Sao. "Because of that, I will send a messenger to build an allianceif the Dusk Dawn Sect is willing to protect us, the Purple Heaven Sect's threat will be temporarily suppressed."Zhi Sao looked at the several candidates who had been selected. Finally, he appointed a young elder named Zhi Liang, who was known for his intelligence and sharp diplomatic skills.“Zh
Elsewhere, Zhi Hao was in a talisman shop, checking out various equipment that could help him on his journey. The shop owner, an old man with sharp eyes, showed various protective charms, attack boosters, and even some illusory ones.“Young man, your journey looks like it will be dangerous,” said the old man as he packed some of Zhi Hao's chosen talismans. "Make sure you don't just rely on your strength. Sometimes, strategy is the best weapon."Zhi Hao nodded. "I understand. Thank you for the advice."With his new equipment, Zhi Hao returns to the Zhi Clan, only to hear news of an alliance with the Dusk Dawn Sect."Father, is this the right decision?" Zhi Hao asked Zhi Sao while they were talking in the family hall."This is the step we have to take, Hao'er," answered Zhi Sao. "We need time to strengthen ourselves. The Dawn Dusk Sect will give us that time."Zhi Hao nodded, although in his heart, he felt that the threat of the Purple Heaven Sect would only become greater with this all
The Thunder Soul Pool stretched out before them, its dark blue waters shimmering with streams of lightning snaking across its surface. Each spark emitted a faint hiss, making the air around the pool pulse with energy.“This is… the Thunder Soul Pool. Such a place truly exists,” Zhi Lingfeng murmured in awe as she watched the dancing arcs of lightning on the water.Without wasting any more time, the four of them removed their outer clothing, leaving only their inner garments for minimal protection.“We don’t have the luxury to marvel at it,” Zhi Hao said. “Use this opportunity to absorb as much lightning energy as possible.”Cautiously, they stepped into the pool. The moment their bodies touched the water, a stinging pain pierced their skin. Waves of lightning coursed through them, forcing them to channel their inner energy to avoid being overwhelmed.“Argh! This hurts way more than I expected,” one of Zhi Hao’s companions gritted his teeth, struggling to endure the pain.But Zhi Hao r
After the incident at the Thunder Soul Pool, Zhi Hao and his group resumed their journey toward their next destination: a region known as the Dark Mist Mountain. The place was rumored to house rare natural resources and secret techniques that could significantly enhance one’s strength. However, the path ahead was anything but easy.“I’m not sure if Dark Mist Mountain is a safe place,” said Luo Ying, one of the group members, with evident hesitation. “The legends say it’s home to countless fierce beasts that even Earth Realm cultivators can’t handle.”Zhi Hao gazed at him calmly. “I understand the risks, but we don’t have a choice. If we want to survive and grow stronger, we must seize every opportunity.”Walking beside Zhi Hao, Zhi Lingfeng added, “Besides, with your newfound power, I’m confident we can overcome whatever comes our way.”Reluctantly, the group agreed to move forward. Along the way, they remained on high alert for potential threats, whether from ferocious beasts or enem
After a long journey filled with dangers, Zhi Hao and his group finally returned to the Zhi Clan. The evening sky cast a golden glow as they passed through the main gates. Guards greeted them with respect, while some clan members looked on with a mix of admiration and curiosity.Carrying a large pouch of herbs, Zhi Lingfeng turned to Zhi Hao. “What’s the next step, Hao? These herbs must be incredibly valuable.”Zhi Hao nodded as he made his way to the main hall. “Send them to the Medicine Hall. Instruct the alchemists to immediately begin crafting Energy Enhancement Pills. Ensure they work quickly and carefully.”Zhi Lingfeng accepted the task with a determined nod. “Understood. I’ll oversee the process myself.”After issuing his orders, Zhi Hao hurried to his chamber. On his way, he passed several clan members busily reinforcing defenses and strengthening protective formations. The Zhi Clan was no longer as it once was; now, it was better prepared for external threats.Reaching his c
Elsewhere: Purple Sky SectIn a grand hall adorned with luxurious ornaments, a middle-aged man sat on a throne. This was Zhong Tian, the leader of the Purple Sky Sect. His face appeared calm, but his eyes radiated restrained fury.“So, Elder Liang has fallen, and his Life Token has shattered,” Zhong Tian spoke in a low voice, yet his tone carried immense weight.Standing before him were several elders and core disciples. One elder stepped forward. “Sect Master, we have dispatched scouts to investigate the Zhi Clan. However, they seem to have reinforced their defenses, and the information we’ve gathered is very limited.”Zhong Tian nodded slowly. “The Zhi Clan… Who is this Zhi Hao? How could he possess such strength? We cannot allow a threat like this to grow further.”Another elder, with long white hair, interjected. “Sect Master, perhaps we can leverage our connections with the Night Shadow Sect to strike at the Zhi Clan from within. They specialize in sabotage and assassination.”Zh
Inside his private chamber, Zhi Hao sat cross-legged, his body radiating a gentle golden aura. He was concentrating energy within his Dantian, ensuring all his meridians were open and ready for the life-or-death battle ahead. Having reached the Ninth Star Earth Realm, the immense energy within him was difficult to control without perfect balance. "If I act rashly, I will only harm myself," he muttered inwardly. Time passed slowly. In the stillness of the night, Zhi Hao employed a technique from the Heaven Shattering Manual to harmonize his power. The lightning energy from the Thunder Star Core he had acquired earlier roared wildly inside him, offering a significant power boost but also threatening imbalance if not tamed perfectly. Each breath was synchronized with the pulse of energy coursing through his meridians. Beads of sweat trickled down his forehead as he pushed his limits to stabilize his strength. "Balance... is the key to everything," Qianlong’s voice echoed from the
The main hall of the Purple Sky Sect’s residence trembled under the clash of overwhelming energies. In the grand room adorned with purple motifs, Zhi Hao stood face-to-face with Zhong Tian, the Patriarch of the Purple Sky Sect. Their auras collided, the oppressive force filling the air, suffocating."Zhi Hao," Zhong Tian sneered, rising from his meditative pose. "You were foolish to sneak in here. Did you think I wouldn't notice?"With a wave of his hand, the room filled with flashes of purple energy, forming a web-like barrier aimed at ensnaring Zhi Hao."Swoosh! Bang! Crash!"Zhi Hao darted away, evading the energy web with Shadow Step Technique. He raised Qianlong, his sword now crackling with sharp lightning energy."I didn’t come here to talk, Zhong Tian. I came to end this," Zhi Hao declared firmly.With a single slash, he unleashed the Heaven-Shattering Lightning Sword Technique, sending a surge of vibrating lightning energy across the room."Hmph! Impressive, but still insuffi
Amid the tense atmosphere at the Ling Clan’s residence, Ling Zhen decided to take a drastic step. Standing in the main hall, surrounded by the clan elders awaiting his orders with bated breath, he broke the silence.“The situation is spiraling out of control,” Ling Zhen said firmly. “We’ve lost control over key territories, and the Eastern Shadows are pressing us relentlessly. Zhi Hao and the Huai Clan can’t be underestimated either. The only way to secure the Ling Clan’s survival is to ally with the Grey Sky Sect.”The first elder nodded in agreement. “This is a wise move, Patriarch. The Grey Sky Sect wields immense power. With their protection, we can at least withstand the Shadows’ assault.”The third elder, a sharp-eyed man with graying hair, added, “But what price will they demand? The Grey Sky Sect never acts without a substantial benefit.”Ling Zhen sighed, his face hardening. “I’ve considered that. If we must cede some territory or resources, it’s a fair price to pay for our s
In mere seconds, they moved like shadows. Black 5 attacked the guard on the left with swift precision, striking his neck and causing him to collapse without making a sound. He Lian fired an arrow at the guard on the right, dropping him to the ground.Zhi Hao darted into the center of the camp, his sword gleaming as he slashed at a guard attempting to resist. “Don’t let anyone escape!” he shouted.A few guards tried to flee, but Black 3 and Black 5 intercepted them with ease. Within moments, the camp fell silent, leaving only one trembling man encircled at the center.Zhi Hao approached the man, his sharp gaze piercing through him. “Who sent you? What are you planning here?”The man shook his head, his body trembling in fear. “I... I’m just a guard... I don’t know anything!”Black 5, already losing patience, kicked the man, sending him sprawling to the ground. “Do you think we’ll believe that nonsense? Speak up before I break your arms!”The man sobbed in terror. “Alright! Alright! I’l
The man in the black hood lay sprawled on the floor of the cave, his body trembling from the agony he had just endured. Black 5 stood beside him, twirling a small silver needle between his fingers, a cold smirk on his face.“You thought you could toy with my master and walk away unscathed?” Black 5 said in a low, menacing voice. He crouched down, slowly pressing the needle into the man’s shoulder, sending sharp pain coursing through his body.“Aaagh!” the hooded man screamed, his body arching in agony.Black 4 stood nearby, arms crossed, his expression unyielding. “You’ll talk eventually. We’ve got plenty of time. But for you, every second will feel like an eternity.”Zhi Hao stood a short distance away, his piercing gaze fixed on the man. He raised his hand slightly, signaling Black 5 to continue.Black 5 chuckled darkly. “You know this is just the beginning, right?” He pressed the needle into the man’s knee this time, twisting it slowly. “This pain won’t kill you, but you’ll wish it
That night, Zhi Hao prepared his next move. Calm and composed, he stood in a dimly lit room at his temporary base, illuminated only by the faint glow of a small lantern. Before him lay a map of Linggau City, marked with strategic annotations.Black 5 returned from his reconnaissance, bowing respectfully before speaking. "Master, the hooded man appears to have connections with the shadow group from the West. They’ve been using the teahouse on the city outskirts as a temporary meeting place, but their movements are swift and difficult to track."Zhi Hao didn’t respond immediately, his sharp gaze fixed on the map. "How many people did you see?""At least seven, including the hooded man. Four looked like seasoned mercenaries, while the other two seemed to be intermediaries or messengers."Zhi Hao nodded slowly, then shifted his gaze to a burly man standing in the corner—He Lian, one of his combat commanders. "He Lian, assemble the team. We begin the operation tonight."He Lian grinned bro
The dark night enveloped Linggau City. In a luxurious inn on the outskirts, the mysterious man sat in a dimly lit room. Several documents were scattered on the table before him. He gazed at them calmly, lifting his teacup and taking a sip.A plain-looking man entered the room quietly and bowed respectfully. "Everything is going according to plan, sir. Zhi Hao continues to pressure the Ling and Huai Clans. Tensions between them are escalating."The mysterious man placed his cup down and nodded slowly. "Good. Has the document reached Zhi Hao?"The man nodded. "Yes, sir. An anonymous courier managed to slip it into one of his frequent haunts. He must have read it by now."The mysterious man smirked, his eyes gleaming coldly. "Zhi Hao will see it as a golden opportunity. He’ll use the document to humiliate the Ling Clan and possibly provoke direct conflict with the Gray Sky Sect. In the process, he’ll expend considerable resources and energy.""And if he succeeds?" the man asked cautiousl
The following day, Linggau City was shrouded in an invisible tension. Rumors of a potential conflict between the Ling Clan and the Huai Clan spread quickly, leaving merchants and ordinary citizens anxious about their safety. Behind the scenes, Zhi Hao continued to maneuver his pieces, unseen by anyone.In a secluded tea house at the edge of the city, Black 1 sat at one of the tables, conversing with a nervous informant."The Huai Clan has started deploying small forces along the border. They're preparing for something, but Patriarch Ling doesn't seem fully aware of it yet," the informant said in a low voice.Black 1 gave a slight nod. "Keep watching. Make sure we know their every move. Zhi Hao wants this information on time."The informant hurried away, leaving Black 1, who soon melted into the bustling market crowd. He knew Zhi Hao's next steps would be pivotal.Meanwhile, at the Ling Clan residence, Patriarch Ling felt pressure mounting from all sides. Reports about the Huai Clan's
The mysterious man unrolled another small scroll, revealing a document detailing secret transactions. The writing on the paper recorded the shipment of weapons and hidden agreements between the Grey Sky Sect and several small clans in the region. He grinned. "I got this from an informant in the black market. This is proof that the Grey Sky Sect has a contract to supply weapons to the Ling Clan and other clans. If this document reaches Zhi Hao, he'll definitely use it to expose the Ling Clan's betrayal."The younger man sitting across from him, still sharp but appearing less experienced, chuckled softly. "You're truly crafty. With this, Zhi Hao will shift his focus to destroying the Ling Clan while we remain in the shadows."The mysterious man nodded slowly, his eyes gleaming with the calculation of a well-thought-out plan. "And that’s just the beginning. If Zhi Hao and the Ling Clan destroy each other, we only need to wait for the right moment to swoop in and take what's left."The yo
On the other side, at the Ling Clan's residence, Patriarch Ling stood in front of a large window, gazing out at the tranquil garden below. His eyes were vacant, yet his mind was filled with plans and concerns. The sky, tinged with red, seemed to reflect the pressure he was feeling.Ling Mei approached with light steps, but there was tension in her expression. She carried a cup of tea for her father and placed it on the small table beside him."How was your meeting with Zhi Hao?" Patriarch Ling asked without turning, his voice low yet full of attention.Ling Mei sat in the chair near him, adjusting the folds of her long skirt before answering. "He’s clever and hard to read. But I feel he hasn’t completely closed himself off from our approach."Patriarch Ling chuckled softly, but there was no humor in his tone. "Of course. A man like Zhi Hao won't be easily trapped. He plays at a different level, and that makes him dangerous."He took a sip from his teacup, then continued, "However, tim
Ling Mei stood on the balcony of her pavilion, gazing at the starry night sky. Her mind was filled with images of her meeting with Zhi Hao. His sharp words, his cold demeanor yet full of power, and his calculating gaze made her feel both intimidated and captivated."I have to do this," she muttered to herself, trying to gather her courage. Patriarch Ling had entrusted her with the task of approaching Zhi Hao and ensuring the success of the alliance.The following day, Ling Mei began preparing her first step. With the help of her personal maid, she decided to send a private invitation to Zhi Hao, asking him to meet her in the bamboo garden at the edge of Linggau City. The place was quiet and beautiful, far from the bustle of the clan—a location she hoped would make their conversation more personal.The message was delivered by a messenger of the Ling Clan and was received directly by one of the Black. Zhi Hao, who was reviewing documents about the Ling Clan's weaponry at his residence,