A journey through the world of martial arts

Chapter 297 Appetizer for the Alliance
Upon hearing the Living Yama mention Ni Qingfeng, the Green-Robed Immortal's expression also turned solemn. Although this person did not make many moves, those who lost their lives at his hands were no small figures. Such an opponent was quite a headache for the Green-Robed Immortal.

"Please calm down, both of you. Although Ni Qingfeng is powerful, he is only one person after all. Didn't the report mention that the Seven Heroes of Tianshan also came down the mountain together? Perhaps we can make some progress from this."

Seeing the heavy expressions on their faces, the bald eagle knew that Ni Qingfeng was putting a lot of pressure on them, so it offered a feasible solution.

"White-haired, are you going to use the same methods you used against the Shaolin Temple against the Tianshan Sect? I'm not trying to discourage you, but the Tianshan Sect will definitely be on guard, and it will be extremely difficult to make a move against them."

"You guessed half right. Poisoning is definitely going to happen, but not against the Tianshan Sect or the Zhongxin Hall. Instead, it will be against the sects that are affiliated with the Zhongxin Hall. These sects are a mixed bag, making it easier for our people to infiltrate them. We will definitely succeed. Once we succeed, they can work together with us from the inside and outside. Even if we can't eliminate the Zhongxin Hall and the Tianshan Sect, we can still severely damage them."

Upon hearing this, the Green-Robed Immortal quite agreed. If they could defeat the enemy through means, they would save themselves the trouble of taking action. Reaping the benefits was the true nature of these demons. As for how many people died, that was not within his consideration.

"That's interesting, but which sect should we start with, and who should we send?"

The white-headed eagle chuckled, already having a plan in mind. He said in a deep voice, "The Funiu Sect and the Iron Palm Sect, although they have submitted to the Zhongxin Hall, are the most inconspicuous under the Zhongxin Hall. Moreover, each of these two sects has around a hundred people. As long as we eliminate a few of them and let our people infiltrate them, as long as we are careful and use the Tang Clan's human skin masks, we will definitely not give ourselves away."

"Well, if that's the case, then let's get started. The Tianshan Sect is already on its way to Xiling. At their speed, they should arrive in two days. By the way, Bai Tou, have you kept it a secret from the Sihai Inn?"

The Living Yama also knew about the relationship between the Four Seas Inn and the Tianshan Sect, but Gu Zhen was always good at dealing with people. Even though his son had become Ni Qingfeng's disciple, he still made sure to give the proper tributes to Bailing Mountain and the Hell Gate, which left them with no way to make a move and could only leave him in the way.

"Don't worry about the Four Seas Inn. It's hard to tell if the news is true or false. Gu Zhen is a smart man. He will never send a message to the Tianshan Sect before confirming the authenticity of the news. This is our opportunity."

Upon hearing this, both the Living Yama and the Green-Robed Immortal nodded. After discussing for a while and finalizing many details, the three of them went together to the cave where Tang En and Tang De were staying.

“Zhongxintang and Tianshan Sect are coming on strong, not giving us any time. If we can delay them for a while to digest what we got from Shaolin, we can fight them head-on. Right now, we mainly rely on Brother Tang’s methods.”

Upon hearing this, Tang En immediately agreed and said solemnly, "Rest assured, all three of you. I may not be good at other things, but I do have some skills in poisoning. If you want to deal with these sects, the Sanzhen Ruyi Pill is the most suitable."

"The Scattered True Ruyi Pill, such a rare item, I didn't expect Brother Tang to still have some left."

The three members of the White-Headed Eagle Clan immediately changed their expressions. As the name suggests, the Scattering True Qi Pill completely drains the true qi in an opponent's body, rendering them a cripple. Moreover, there is no antidote for this thing, which adds to its evil nature. Back when the Tang Clan was at its lowest point, the then sect leader used a Scattering True Qi Pill to kill 172 people from the Kunlun Sect, which is why this thing has such a bad reputation.

"To my shame, this is the only one left in the sect, and the recipe has long been lost. I'm afraid it will never be able to be made again."

Tang En shook his head and smiled bitterly. He took out a three-inch jade bottle of emerald green from his pocket, sealed the mouth with wax, glanced at it a few times, and handed it to the white-headed eagle. The latter immediately reached out and took it, bowing solemnly to Tang En. "Thank you, Brother Tang. If this matter is successful, the three of us will definitely search for disciples for the Tang Clan in the future and pass on the Tang Clan."

The Living Yama and the Green-Robed Immortal also bowed. In any case, this thing was a deadly weapon, and if used well, it could change the situation between the two sides. At this time, making a promise was no big deal for them, and it could also demonstrate their unity.

"We'll discuss this later. Let's deal with the immediate crisis first. The three of you have other important matters to attend to, so I won't linger any longer. If you need anything, just send a disciple to inform me later."

Upon hearing this, the white-headed eagle bowed again and left the cave with the Living Yama.

After the three left, Tang De, who had been silent all along, said, "Brother, those three white-haired men are trying to use the Tang Clan as a live target. Now there are only the two of us left in the Tang Clan. If the two of us die, the Tang Clan will truly be wiped out from the martial arts world. Even if we go to the underworld, how will we face our ancestors?"

“I know that the three white-haired men have ill intentions, but when you're under someone's roof, you have to bow your head. Besides, now that Zhongxin Hall has come to besiege us, it's a great opportunity for us to take revenge. We'll use someone else to do our dirty work and see how well they do it.”

In his heart, Tang En secretly hoped that the two sides would fight to the death. His Tang Clan had already declined to such a state, so why should other sects be safe and sound? Since they had nothing left to lose, they might as well go all out and perhaps struggle for a glimmer of hope.

“Brother, your move is bold, but it is indeed the most appropriate method at present.”

Tang De glanced at Tang En, whose gaze was sinister, and sighed inwardly.

Two days later, the Tianshan Sect group arrived at the Sihai Inn. Gu Zhen had already received the news and immediately led everyone in the inn to greet them. Upon seeing Shen Henian and Ni Qingfeng, he quickly took a few steps and bowed respectfully to the two of them.

"You two Taoist priests have had a long journey. Everything has been arranged inside. Please come in."

As she spoke, Gu Zhen gestured with her hand.

Shen Henian and Ni Qingfeng nodded, and then took the lead, following Gu Zhen into the inn. The Seven Heroes of Tianshan and the other disciples followed suit. As for the horses and other items, the people of Sihai Inn would take care of them.

At this moment, there was no one else in the inn except for the group from the Tianshan Sect. Five round tables had been set up on the first floor. Gu Zhen led Shen Henian and Ni Qingfeng upstairs, while the Seven Heroes of Tianshan and the others took their seats downstairs.

They entered a room decorated in a simple and rustic style, and the three of them sat down. Soon after, dishes were served.

After several rounds of dishes, Ni Qingfeng put down his chopsticks and asked Gu Zhen, "Brother Gu, have you noticed any unusual activity at Bailing Mountain recently?"

Shen Henian looked over upon hearing this, and Gu Zhen immediately said, "Aside from the lively and noisy period before, Bailing Mountain has been very quiet recently. It's really hard to figure out what they're up to. I guess that Bai Tou knows that your sect is going to deal with them, so they must have made preparations in advance. The fact that there's no movement is a big problem."

"Brother Gu is right. Our sect's movements are neither too big nor too small. On the other hand, Zhongxin Hall seems eager for others to know that we are going to attack Bailing Mountain. White-headed Eagle isn't blind or deaf. Unless he wants to sit and wait for death, he is more likely to strike first, given his personality."

Gu Zhen was slightly startled upon hearing this, but the more she thought about it, the more sense it made.

"Brother Ni, in your opinion, will they target your sect?"

Upon hearing this, Shen Henian's eyes sharpened. Ni Qingfeng then said, "It's less than half a possibility. Bai Tou is a veteran of the martial arts world. The relationship between the Tianshan Sect and Zhongxin Hall is delicate. If he targets the Tianshan Sect, it will undoubtedly embolden Zhongxin Hall, which would be a thankless task. Conversely, if he targets Zhongxin Hall, the result will be the same. Therefore, the only ones he can target are those smaller sects. This way, he can both eliminate our forces and demonstrate his own strength, preventing us from making any rash moves."

"Those smaller sects are mostly vassals of Zhongxin Hall. This time, Shangguan Yun is bound to suffer some hardship."

Shen Henian was somewhat gloating. Although the Tianshan Sect and Zhongxin Hall were now allies, their mutual grievances were not easily erased. The greater the losses suffered by Zhongxin Hall, the more beneficial it would be for the Tianshan Sect.

"Second Senior Brother, we must be careful in everything we do. Tell Tianjiao and the others to be on high alert. Although the Tang Clan has been destroyed, Tang En and Tang De are still in Bailing Mountain. Their martial arts skills are mediocre, but their poisoning techniques are truly remarkable."

"Yes, Junior Brother, you have considered things very carefully. Before leaving, the Sect Leader bestowed the Poison-Avoiding Pearl upon me, and I will hand it over to Tianjiao in a moment."

Upon hearing this, Ni Qingfeng nodded. Although the Poison-Avoiding Pearl had limited effects, it could still serve as a backup plan.

After the meal, Ni Qingfeng and Shen Henian went to the rooms that Gu Zhen had carefully prepared. After resting for the night, the Tianshan Sect group continued their journey the next day after replenishing their water and dry rations.

Before leaving, Gu Zhen handed a golden silk soft armor to Ni Qingfeng. Upon seeing this, the latter said gently, "Brother Gu, rest assured, with me here, I will definitely not let Ming'er get into trouble. I will give this golden silk soft armor to Ming'er."

Gu Zhen remained silent upon hearing this, bowed respectfully to Ni Qingfeng, and then watched the Tianshan Sect group depart.

"Shopkeeper, with Master Ni protecting the young master and his golden silk armor, there will definitely be no mishaps. Moreover, the young master's current martial arts skills are not far from those of the Seven Heroes of Tianshan, so he still has the ability to protect himself."

Gu Zhen listened to the old servant's words and sighed, saying, "I am naturally happy that Ming'er's martial arts have improved, but after all, he is my only son. If something were to happen to him, I really wouldn't know what to do."

"Well, things have come to this point anyway. I can only pray for him and hope that Ming'er will return safely soon." Just as the Tianshan Sect continued to advance towards the Xiling branch of Zhongxin Hall, which was ten miles away, a fierce battle was taking place outside the Xiling branch. The battle against Zhongxin Hall was between Huangshamen and Shenhuo Sect, as well as some other independent practitioners.

"Shao Fei, Lie Huo, you Huang Sha Men and Shen Huo Jiao are tired of living, daring to launch a sneak attack on my branch!"

Outside the branch headquarters, Yu Shang, the leader of the Xiling branch, had a resolute face, a burly build, and a dark complexion. He held a beast-mouthed gold-swallowing knife in his hand and was looking at Shao Fei, the leader of the Huangsha Sect, and Lie Huo, the leader of the Shenhuo Sect, with an unfriendly expression. Dozens of people behind him stood neatly on both sides, staring at the opposite side with cold eyes.

"Chief Yu, we heard that Shangguan Yun is inviting various factions to your place to discuss how to deal with us. How can we not come and see for ourselves? We can also greet them and see who they are so that we can be aware of their situation. Why is Chief Yu making such a fuss? Those who know you will flatter you for being dutiful, but those who don't will think you are a coward."

The speaker was a middle-aged man in a yellow robe holding a three-pointed blade. His face was somewhat ugly, and this man was Shao Fei, the leader of the Huangsha Sect.

Upon hearing this, before Zhongxin Hall could react, the disciples of Huangshamen burst into laughter. Yu Shang's eyes sharpened, and he shouted, his deep voice piercing the sky. Those on the other side, except for a few, felt a tightness in their chests and their faces turned pale. Some even collapsed to the ground.

"Humph!"

Shao Fei let out a cold snort, releasing his aura to immediately block the sound. The three-pointed blade in his hand pointed at Yu Shang, its cold light chilling and intimidating.

"Shao Fei, Lie Huo, if you know what's good for you, you'd better leave now, or don't blame me for being ruthless."

Yu Shang didn't want to get into a conflict with them at this moment, but if they didn't know what was good for them, he wasn't someone to be trifled with either.

"Yu Shang, Shangguan Yun probably won't be able to reach the Xiling branch anytime soon. By the time he arrives, this place will be nothing but ruins. Yu Shang, prepare to die!"

With a deep shout, Lie Huo of the Divine Fire Sect waved his hand forward, and countless rockets shot out, heading towards the Xiling branch. Upon seeing this, Yu Shang's expression changed, and he roared angrily, slashing with his treasured sword. Streams of sword energy flew across the sky, intercepting most of the rockets, but a few still landed inside the branch. As soon as they hit the ground, they exploded with a bang, and several buildings were instantly engulfed in flames. In just a moment, the branch was ablaze with fire.

Just as the Divine Fire Sect made its move, the people of the Yellow Sand Sect were not idle either. Led by their sect leader Shao Fei, they quickly charged towards the opposite side. Shao Fei used his lightness skill, and with a flash of cold light, the three-pointed blade in his hand swiftly stabbed towards Yu Shang. The others surrounded and attacked the branch disciples.

Yu Shang sneered as he watched the incoming blade. He spun his sword and unleashed a "Reverse Cross Slash" to meet the attack. Sparks flew and a clang rang out. Shao Fei's weapon couldn't withstand the force, and he staggered back a few steps, staring at Yu Shang with a grim expression.

"You've been hiding your true strength!"

Shao Fei's right hand, gripping the three-pointed blade, trembled uncontrollably. The attack just now was enough for him to see Yu Shang's strength. The reason he volunteered to come and cause trouble was because he was worried about facing the elites of Zhongxin Hall later. By making a contribution in advance, he could find some easy opponents later. He did not expect that he was wrong. Yu Shang's true strength was even stronger than that of a sect leader.

Yu Shang glanced at the gradually weakening fire in the branch headquarters, made up his mind, and with a flash of cold light from his precious sword, he slashed down from the air, his target being Shao Fei. The latter's expression changed slightly, and he hurriedly retreated. At the same time, he swung his three-pointed blade and unleashed a sword aura, which collided with the sword light. With a loud bang, the surrounding air surged and dust billowed, and a burly figure charged fiercely towards him.

Seeing that his blood and qi were churning from the shock, Shao Fei knew something was wrong and hurriedly threw out three darts. They whizzed past Yu Shang's face. Although Yu Shang was not hit, Shao Fei took the opportunity to calm down his internal energy. Before Yu Shang could attack again, Shao Fei shouted at the raging fire.

"Brother Liehuo, help me!"

Liehuo was engrossed in the battle when he heard Shao Fei's cry for help, and his expression turned very displeased.

"This Shao Fei thought he was so capable, but he couldn't even take down a minor branch leader. The Huangsha Sect is nothing special."

Despite thinking this way, Liehuo still abandoned his opponents and used his lightness skill to reach the place where Yu Shang and Shao Fei were fighting in a few leaps. As soon as he arrived, he found that Shao Fei was being forced to retreat step by step by Yu Shang's treasured sword, and was in danger.

"Yu Shang's martial arts skills..."

Lie Huo narrowed his eyes, his heart sinking slightly. He then waved his hand, and the Flaming Banner in his hand roared, carrying scorching heat as it swept towards Yu Shang. Yu Shang had already sensed Lie Huo's arrival, so he held back some of his strength. Even so, he still managed to beat Shao Fei badly, leaving him with several wounds.

Sensing the attack from behind, Yu Shang shook his precious sword, directly dispelling the three-pointed blade attached to the blade. Then, he slashed back, and a flash of white light cleaved the incoming flames in two, which then spread out to the left and right.

Shao Fei's wrist was numb from the shock. Seeing Yu Shang and Lie Huo clash, he mustered his strength, and with a hum, his three-pointed blade rejoined the battle. Amidst the billowing dust, three figures—one black, one yellow, and one red—flew up and down, the sounds of weapons clashing filling the air. After dozens of exchanges, Yu Shang finally gained the upper hand, gradually suppressing the two. Lie Huo and Shao Fei were now in a predicament, feeling a strange fear in their hearts.

They finally understood why the others on Bailing Mountain didn't compete with them; it turned out they had this plan in mind. It seemed they had already figured out the details of this place, and the two of them were merely acting as a touchstone.

The two of them were in a critical situation. The disciples who had stormed the branch were either killed or captured, and the originally noisy sounds also fell silent.

The two men felt bitter as they watched the blade light slashing towards them. They shouted in unison and used their combined strength to break through the blade light. However, the recoil caused their internal energy to surge, and their bodies could not withstand it. Lie Huo glanced at Shao Fei without leaving a trace, and his eyes flashed as he made a plan. The two of them fought Yu Shang for several more moves. Lie Huo seized an opportunity and unfurled the Flaming Banner in his hand, covering the two men's figures. The blade light struck it but failed to break through.

Yu Shang remained unfazed by the sight and unleashed several consecutive strikes with his treasured sword, all hitting the same spot on the flag. With a tearing sound, the Crimson Flame Flag finally gave way and was ripped open, revealing the two people hidden inside.

However, just as Yu Shang was about to strike again, the Crimson Flame Banner was suddenly retracted by the raging fire. Then, with a burst of lightness skill, he leaped half a mile away in a few breaths. Shao Fei, who was left behind, was immediately stunned, followed by indescribable anger and uncontrollable fear.

"Chief Yu, spare my life! I can provide Hall Master Shangguan with information about the mountain!"

Seeing Yu Shang approach with his knife, Shao Fei immediately shouted, throwing down the three-pointed blade in his hand and raising both hands high.

Upon seeing this, Yu Shang snorted coldly and struck Shao Fei's pressure points in mid-air. If this man hadn't been somewhat valuable, Yu Shang would have killed him immediately.

"It's a pity that Liehuo got away; this person is far more valuable than Shao Fei."

Just after Yu Shang had Shao Fei taken away, a group of people suddenly came galloping towards them, carrying a banner with the three large characters "Tianshan Sect" written on it. Yu Shang was immediately alarmed and hurriedly led several subordinates to greet them.

"Master Shen, Master Ni."

Yu Shang looked at the leaders, Shen Henian and Ni Qingfeng, and his attitude became much more respectful. These two were powerful figures in the Tianshan Sect, especially Ni Qingfeng, whom even the sect leader was wary of.

"Greetings, Chief Yu."

When Shen Henian and the others saw Yu Shang, they all dismounted. Ni Qingfeng threw someone off his horse, and Yu Shang recognized him as the fleeing Liehuo. He was overjoyed.

"This person is wearing a robe with flame-patterned gold patterns; he must be a high-ranking member of the Divine Fire Sect. Chief Yu, do you know this person?"

"To be honest, Daoist Master, this person is none other than Liehuo, the leader of the Divine Fire Sect."

Then Yu Shang briefly recounted what had just happened. After listening, Shen Henian said fiercely, "These evil heretics never stop, they deserve to die!"

"Gentlemen, this is not the place to talk. Please follow me to the branch. Your sect is the first to arrive, and the hall master and the others should be arriving soon. Please."

Yu Shang gestured, and Shen Henian and the others followed him into the branch headquarters. Although it had been hit by a fire, the branch headquarters had handled the situation well, and apart from a few buildings being destroyed, there were not many casualties.

(End of this chapter)