A journey through the world of martial arts

Chapter 116 The Dragon Clan
Inside the Hundred Buddha Temple, with the death of the abbot and several elders, the remaining monks all sensed that something was wrong and hurriedly packed their valuables to escape.

"Masters, what are you doing carrying those bundles?" a pilgrim asked, looking at the monks who were in a hurry to leave.

It's the time for pilgrimage, so why are all these monks heading out, carrying bundles on their backs?

Upon hearing this, the monk didn't even look at the words and hurried towards the temple gate. However, as soon as he reached the temple gate, it was as if he had bumped into a wall. He froze and fell to the ground.

That wasn't all. Any monks who tried to escape were bound with a golden rope. Under the horrified gazes of the pilgrims, they quickly revealed their true forms: rats, geckos, centipedes, and so on.

"A monster!"

The pilgrims cried out in alarm and hurriedly ran down the mountain.

In an instant, the entire Hundred Buddha Temple became deserted, with no worshippers present except for the monsters that kept wailing and screaming.

Gu Xu looked at these monsters stained with blood, reached out and grabbed them, crushing them into pieces. When burned by fire, not a trace was left.

Upon entering the main hall, Gu Xu sensed a chilling power. He walked towards the source of the chilling energy, pointed his finger, and a deep hole about ten feet in size immediately appeared in the ground.

"So it's a Yin Spring in the earth's veins; no wonder there are so many monsters."

This Yin Spring is an invaluable natural treasure for cultivators, as it is most effective in harmonizing Yin and Yang energies and building a solid foundation. For demons, the water of the Yin Spring can not only save them years of arduous cultivation, but also purify their bloodline.

Gu Xu took out a jade bottle, and with a flick of his wrist, the water from the Yin Spring flowed into the bottle. In no time, seventy percent of the spring water was collected.

"If we leave this 30%, perhaps it can be restored to its original state in a few hundred years."

After casually placing a few seals to prevent the Yin Spring from being discovered by monsters, Gu Xu turned and left the main hall, heading to the rear hall.

According to Blackfish's memory, this rear hall was a place specifically used to imprison sacrificial offerings. Gu Xu broke into the secret chamber, and cries for help came from inside.

"Are you here to save us?" a six or seven-year-old boy asked timidly.

"Yes, you don't need to be afraid. I've come to save you. You can go home now," Gu Xu said gently.

Upon hearing Gu Xu's words, the boy became very excited and said, "This Taoist priest is so handsome, he must not be a bad person."

He hurriedly ran inside, and soon four children came out with him.

"You may come out with me."

With a flick of his sleeve, Gu Xu sent a gentle breeze through the children, who felt a cool sensation travel from their heads to their stomachs, instantly dispelling their hunger and fatigue.

The children looked at Gu Xu with awe, and the latter nodded slightly before leading them away.

After putting away some valuable items, Gu Xu led the children down the mountain. Halfway down the mountain, a group of soldiers suddenly rushed up. When the leading general saw Gu Xu and his group, he immediately stopped with one arm, dismounted, and stepped forward.

"Please, Taoist priest, these children are..."

"Greetings, layman. This Hundred Buddha Temple is a gathering place for demons. These children were almost eaten. Now that the general has arrived, this humble Taoist will not interfere any further."

Upon hearing this, the general felt relieved, realizing that this Taoist priest was not like the monks of the Hundred Buddha Temple.

"You flatter me, Daoist Master. This Hundred Buddha Temple is teeming with evil spirits. I am here on orders to eradicate it. Please do as I command."

The general waved his hand, making way for them. Gu Xu thanked him and led the child down the mountain.

"General, is there anything wrong with that Taoist priest?" the lieutenant whispered a reminder.

"No," the general said without further explanation, and immediately ordered his soldiers to head up the mountain.

Down the mountain, Gu Xu asked the children where they lived, and then personally escorted them to their homes. After a moment of confusion, Gu Xu left amidst the families' profuse thanks.

"Master, can I learn magic from you?" the boy named Xiaoyu asked Gu Xu, his eyes filled with longing.

Upon hearing this, Gu Xu replied, "This humble Taoist priest has not accepted any disciples for a long time."

Xiao Yu's eyes darkened upon hearing this, and his family immediately said, "Master, please forgive us; the child is just being ignorant."

"It's alright. However, Xiaoyu has good potential. Although I cannot take him as a disciple, I can teach him some Qi cultivation methods. But you must remember, these things must never be passed on to outsiders. If others find out, they will be in grave danger. Do you still want to learn?"

"I want to learn, please teach me, Taoist priest," Xiaoyu immediately knelt down and kowtowed.

Having gone through such an ordeal, Xiaoyu yearns for power. If he possessed the same power as the Taoist priest, his playmate wouldn't have been eaten by that black fish.

Xiao Yu's parents were both surprised and delighted when they heard Gu Xu's words. Their child had received teachings from a master, and he was sure to have a bright future. He would no longer have to live a mediocre life like they did.

Gu Xu accepted the greeting and told Xiao Yu to rise. Then, he pointed a finger at Xiao Yu's brow, and a golden light flashed. Gu Xu then passed on a demon-slaying sword technique that he had deduced to Xiao Yu.

"I must cultivate diligently from now on."

Gu Xu gave him some instructions, and then secretly cast a rune on his body.

Xiao Yu's family repeatedly expressed their gratitude, and Gu Xu waved his hand and left, heading straight for Tianhua Prefecture.

Imperial Sword Manor
"Master, you're finally back!" the steward said to Yin Zhong with delight.

Although nothing major has happened these past few days, the absence of Yin Zhong feels like the loss of a pillar of support, and something seems off about the entire manor.

"This trip took a few days, but the harvest was quite plentiful. Take these foxes, process them properly, and make a dress for the lady."

Yin Zhong lifted three white fox carcasses, each about half a person's height, off his horse. Their fur was bright and shiny, clearly top-quality. What was even more remarkable was that their fur was completely undamaged.

"Yes, I'll go right away," the steward instructed several men to take the white fox away, and then followed Yin Zhong into the manor.

After arriving at the main hall, Yin Zhong drank a cup of tea and asked, "Has anything happened these past few days?"

"Nothing major has happened at the manor these past few days, but a strange thing has occurred outside the town."

"What strange thing is this?"

"The gatekeeper of the mortuary outside the town suddenly died, and his death was gruesome. In addition, all the unclaimed bodies inside the mortuary have disappeared."

"Oh, is that so? It seems it's not just demons causing trouble, but also some filthy things that can't be seen by others. What did the authorities say?"

"The yamen is treating it as a common case of wild animal abuse. They even sent someone to speak with the manor lord, but I found an excuse to turn them away temporarily. Judging by the time, they should be coming to ask for help again soon."

"This matter concerns the stability of the entire Shenglong Town and must be resolved. If the officials come looking for us again, let them in."

"Yes, I understand."

Yin Zhong gave a few more instructions, then went to the backyard, washed up, changed into clean clothes, and went to see his wife.

"Master," the two maids bowed respectfully. Yin Zhong nodded and entered the room, where he saw his wife making clothes.

"Master, you're back!" Ji He's face lit up with joy. She hurriedly put down her needlework and was about to get up when Yin Zhong pressed her down.

"Now that you're pregnant, you should rest more. Let the servants do the heavy work."

"Lying down all day isn't comfortable; it's better to get some exercise. Besides, making clothes for our children is a mother's responsibility."

Yin Zhong smiled upon hearing this, said "okay," and sat down next to her.

"I'm sorry to have worried you these past few days," Yin Zhong said gently, which immediately brought tears to Ji He's eyes.

Although she had lived in seclusion for a long time, she still knew a thing or two about what was happening outside. The world was so chaotic now, and although her husband was highly skilled, there was no guarantee that he wouldn't encounter some danger. What would she do if something happened to him?

"I know the master's temperament, but I still hope he can be careful, even if it's for the sake of our unborn child."

“You’re right, Madam. I will certainly keep your teachings in mind. By the way, I just asked the steward to process the fox fur. The weather is getting colder, so we can make a cloak for you to keep warm.”

Upon hearing this, Ji He, though disliking killing, didn't say anything more because it was her husband's wish.

After the couple exchanged a few more words, the steward came over and said that someone from the yamen had come and asked the master of the manor to come over. Yin Zhong said he understood, and then instructed the maid to take good care of his wife before leading the steward to the living room.

"Master Yin," Meng Fan said, rising quickly to greet Yin Zhong upon his arrival. "So it's Brother Meng. I'm so sorry for not welcoming you properly. Please have a seat."

Meng Fan was one of the top experts in the government office. He had slain countless demons with his Life-Severing Blade, and ordinary people would be intimidated by his aura.

"Master Yin, I have come here on orders from above, hoping to receive assistance from the Imperial Sword Manor," Meng Fan said, knowing that Yin Zhong disliked beating around the bush.

"Brother Meng, could you elaborate?" Yin Zhong asked Meng Fan, his expression turning serious.

"The head of the mortuary must already know about the matter outside the town. In fact, it's not just the mortuary; there are problems at the mass grave as well..."

After hearing Meng Fan's words, Yin Zhong learned that a blood mist had suddenly appeared on the mass grave recently, and it was growing larger and larger, now covering several surrounding hills. The government sent people to investigate, but no one returned.

"The yamen has been gradually evacuating the surrounding villagers, but the blood mist is about to approach the town. Master Yin, the yamen knows you are very capable. We wonder if you can lend us a hand? If it is successful, the yamen will reward you handsomely," Meng Fan said sincerely, standing up and bowing.

The yamen had previously received many benefits from the Imperial Sword Manor. It was because of the Imperial Sword Manor's abilities that Shenglong Town became the most stable place among the surrounding towns. Originally, the yamen did not want to rely too much on the Imperial Sword Manor, but seeing that no one could solve these strange things, it had no choice but to turn to Yin Zhong.

"I understand what Brother Meng has said. The Imperial Sword Manor has agreed to this matter. Once I have settled things at home, I will go and investigate. In the meantime, I request that the government stabilize public sentiment."

"With Master Yin's words of comfort, I am relieved. On behalf of the government, I once again thank Master Yin for his assistance."

"Brother Meng, you're too kind. This Shenglong Town is also my home. We must not let these evil spirits disturb the peace here."

Having received confirmation, Meng Fan felt relieved and spoke more casually afterward. After exchanging a few more words, Meng Fan took his leave.

"Steward, select a few people to come with me to the mass grave tomorrow. I have a feeling that the mortuary's situation is inextricably linked to that place."

"Yes, I will prepare it right away."

The next day, Yin Zhong finished explaining the affairs of the manor and arrived at the yamen with three subordinates. At this time, Meng Fan was waiting at the yamen with a group of soldiers. When he saw Yin Zhong appear, he hurriedly stepped forward.

"Master Yin"

"Brother Meng, there's no time to lose. Let's not delay any longer. It's noon now, the yang energy is at its peak, perfect for going. Let's talk on the way."

Upon hearing Yin Zhong's words, Meng Fan nodded, mounted his horse, and led the soldiers ahead. In less than an hour, the group arrived at the mass grave five miles away.

“The blood mist has grown quite a bit larger. It looks like it will soon envelop the remaining three mountains. At that time, the town will have no protection at all,” Meng Fan said in a deep voice, looking at the crimson sky in the distance.

Yin Zhong frowned upon seeing this. The blood mist was strange; even from such a distance, one could smell a trace of blood. The situation in the valley must be even worse.

"Brother Meng, it's too dangerous ahead. It's better if the two of us go. The rest of you should stay here for now, so as not to waste your lives."

“Master Yin is absolutely right,” Meng Fan replied. He then gave a few instructions to the others, and the two exchanged a glance before dismounting and heading towards the mass grave.

Tianhua Prefecture, Juhe Mountain

Gu Xu looked at the majestic mountain peaks before him, drew his Divine Dragon Sword, and with a surge of true energy, the sword hovered in the air, its tip pointing in one direction.

Having found the right direction, Gu Xuteng climbed the mountain. After walking along the winding mountain path for half an hour, a beautiful valley suddenly appeared before him.

"This is the Long Clan's residence. It's truly a wonderful place. The earth's veins are unobstructed, and the spiritual energy is concentrated and doesn't dissipate. Living here year after year, one's lifespan will be significantly longer than that of ordinary people."

As soon as Gu Xu appeared at the valley entrance, two guards saw him. Their expressions changed drastically. One of them rushed inside, while the other held a weapon in his hand and watched Gu Xu warily.

"Who are you, and how did you get here?" the guard asked, staring intently at Gu Xu.

"I have been entrusted by someone to deliver something," Gu Xu said, unwrapping the cloth strip to reveal the Divine Dragon Sword inside.

"What is that..." Before the guard could finish speaking, he saw the Divine Dragon Sword and immediately exclaimed, "The Divine Dragon Sword!"

"This was given to me by General Longteng; please inform him."

"Please wait a moment, Daoist Master, I will go and invite the elder," the guard said respectfully, his attitude changing.

The Divine Dragon Sword is a family heirloom of the Long clan, and has always been in the possession of the direct descendants of the Long clan. However, it disappeared several years ago along with the clan head, Long Teng. Now that it has suddenly reappeared, no one can ignore it.

The guard apologized and turned to leave. Gu Xu waited quietly outside the valley. After a while, he heard a series of hurried footsteps.

Looking up, one could see an old man with white hair leading several people. Each of them was quite skilled, one of the top masters in the martial arts world. It seemed to be the foundation of the Long family.

"Greetings, Daoist Master. I am Long Hai, an elder of the Long clan. How do you come to possess the Divine Dragon Sword of my Long clan? And where is Patriarch Long Teng?"

Long Hai immediately recognized that the Divine Dragon Sword in Gu Xu's hand was genuine. If the Divine Dragon Sword fell into this person's hands, then the family head...

"I have been entrusted by General Longteng to return this item. Elder Longhai, please accept it."

Gu Xu handed the Divine Dragon Sword to Long Hai, who glanced at him and took it.

"Master Daoist, you have come from afar. Please come inside and have a seat. This old man will do his best to be a good host."

Realizing that no special techniques had been used on the sword, Long Hai temporarily lowered his guard and invited Gu Xu into the valley, hoping to find out some information about Long Teng.

"Then I'll have to bother you."

"Taoist Master, please."

Long Hai gestured and led the way, guiding Gu Xu inside. The others followed closely behind, while the two guards remained standing at the valley entrance.

In the main hall, Long Hai invited Gu Xu to sit down, and the others also took their seats. Then, servants brought out fragrant tea and closed the door.

"I have not yet asked for your esteemed name, Daoist Master."

"This humble Taoist priest has an empty valley."

"So it's Daoist Gu Xu. Forgive my boldness in asking, but is there any prior connection between you and my master, Long Teng?"

Upon hearing this, Gu Xu said, "General Long Teng is currently recuperating in a certain place. He doesn't have much time left, and he specifically entrusted the Divine Dragon Sword to me to be passed on to the Long clan."

Next, Gu Xu gave a brief account of what had happened. After listening, Long Hai nodded slightly, indicating that this Taoist priest had indeed been entrusted with the patriarch's mission.

"Please forgive us, Daoist Master. We have no choice but to do this. The Supreme Dao and the Demonic Dao are searching everywhere. The Dragon Clan has already suffered heavy losses and cannot afford any more trouble."

At this point, Long Hai and the others all looked sorrowful. Back then, Long Teng went alone to help the Tong family and sent the Long family members to retreat to Juhe Mountain in Tianhua Prefecture. However, they were still attacked by the enemy on the way. After several battles, the Long family suffered heavy casualties. If it weren't for the Grand Elder and the others risking their lives to cover the retreat, there would have been several more of them missing.

After listening to Long Hai's account, Gu Xuxin understood. The Supreme Path and the Demon Path joined forces to deal with the Tong and Long families, which severed two major pillars of the imperial court, making it easier for them to control the court and achieve their ulterior motives.

"I have been entrusted by General Long Teng to look after the Long clan. If any of you need any assistance, please feel free to use this jade talisman to contact me."

Gu took out a pure white jade talisman, lifted it with force, and it floated in mid-air, emitting a bright light.

Long Hai was shocked to see this, and the others were no better off, all staring at Gu Xu in horror.

Based on this alone, everyone knew that this person's skill was far superior to theirs, and if he harbored ill intentions, they would be powerless to stop him.

Long Hai's worries are now completely put to rest. This person possesses both supernatural powers and the family's token, making him a friend, not an enemy.

As Gu Xu moved his mind, the jade talisman slowly landed in Long Hai's hand.

"This jade talisman can be activated with true qi to speak; Elder, please keep it safe."

"Thank you, Daoist Master. The Long clan is grateful." With such a person behind them, the Long clan can have some confidence. As long as they can hold on for a few years, the children in the clan will grow up, and the prosperity of the Long clan will be just around the corner.

"Master Dao has come from afar; we have prepared a small feast, and we humbly request your presence."

Gu Xu nodded upon hearing this, and then Long Hai had someone take Gu Xu to a guest room to rest.

"Elder, it seems that Daoist Gu Xu really came specifically to deliver the Divine Dragon Sword, but the patriarch's side..."

"Well, let's put the matter of the family head aside for now. Since the Daoist Master is unwilling to say more, he must have his reasons. We'll discuss it again in a few days. You should go and make preparations first, and then have a proper talk with the Daoist Master tonight. Perhaps we can learn some other information that way."

"Yes"

(End of this chapter)