Immortal Road.

Blackwater Cliff was silent at this moment.

Everyone was gathered in the cave, but strangely, no one spoke.

The third line of defense, the Blood Demon Array, was forcibly breached, and everyone was driven back to their last stronghold, fleeing in disarray, their armor and weapons discarded. A deep sense of powerlessness welled up in their hearts.

The key issue is that a large number of Nascent Soul stage cultivators have died in battle, making the high-level combat power increasingly strained.

The great masters were reduced to a handful, leaving many empty spaces at meetings. The feeling of allies constantly disappearing cast a shadow over everyone's hearts.

"Fellow Daoist Wu, Fellow Daoist Cui, and Fellow Daoist Fan have all disappeared without a trace. It seems they don't intend to send any more Yuan Nian avatars as reinforcements."

Protector Feng sat in the head seat, sighing. He had done so much mobilization in the two weeks before the battle, visiting people everywhere to act as a peacemaker and promote unity, but reality had given him a hard slap in the face!

Now my eyes are puffy and my gaze has become cloudy again.

All efforts were in vain. The Black Lotus faction was in decline, and with each defeat in battle, it gradually weakened and slid into the abyss.

At this moment, even the old demon and the Qinghe water demon could no longer maintain their aloof demeanor as masters, their expressions tense and revealing their worries.

They understood the balance of power between the two sides better than anyone else, and it was rapidly widening over time. If things continued this way, the Black Lotus Cult would most likely be doomed.

The reward promised by the Azure Lotus Fairy will also fall through!
At this point, many people couldn't help but marvel at the foresight of the leader of the Ancient Search Sect, who managed to get the final payment in advance—that was incredibly forward-thinking!

The person they envied was currently sitting in a chair, pretending to be asleep.

Indeed, compared to the others, Lin Shan's expression was much more relaxed at the moment, and he didn't seem to have anything on his mind at all.

Behind him, his three henchmen, Venerable Burning Fire, Divine Lord Yuming, and Demon Lord of Vast Ocean, stood in a row, their bonds tightening even more!
"Everyone, now only we are left. The disciples are still guarding the key passages inside the cave. This battle is not over yet, so we must not lose heart!"

When Protector Feng said this, he sounded rather weak and listless, which made it sound even more ironic to everyone.

To be honest, there isn't a single person in the Black Lotus Cult who can stand alone.

Neither You Meiji nor Protector Feng were once unknown figures, lacking strength and prestige. Compared to the top holy lords of the opposing camp, they were far inferior!
The fact that Fairy Qinglian was not present yet still exercised her power, showing favoritism, imposing pressure, and changing leaders at the last minute had already caused dissatisfaction among the crowd.

Among them, the old demon was the most hardworking. He never fought for power or profit, silently obeyed orders and did whatever he was told, but all his hard work went to waste.

Now they finally couldn't sit still any longer!
"Protector Feng, could you please ask Fairy Qinglian to show herself? I have some questions for her."

"Why can't you say these things to me here first? Why bother the World Honored One?"

"I want the fairy to tell me in person whether there is still any hope of turning the tide! This is also what all the fellow cultivators here want to know. If we can't get a clear answer today, then there's probably no point in continuing this battle. Wouldn't it be better if we all went home as soon as possible?"

These words immediately resonated with all allies.

Even the Qinghe River Demon, who was even more low-key than him, along with the other demons, nodded in agreement.

The Black Lotus faction has suffered repeated defeats. If they can't come up with any trump cards to stabilize morale, no one is stupid enough to be willing to risk their lives. Wouldn't it be better to just give up and run away?

It's still too late to run!
Protector Feng frowned, realizing he was powerless to refute.

He knew the situation was serious, a matter of life and death, but out of loyalty he wanted to share Qinglian Fairy's burdens and didn't want to bother her. Now it seems that no matter what happens, he still has to ask for instructions. How is this any different from Youmei Ji?
"Alright, everyone, please wait a moment, I will report to the World Honored One immediately."

He turned and went into the inner cave, presumably to report the situation to someone in private, while everyone outside waited anxiously.

After a while, Protector Feng came out and appeared with Fairy Qinglian.

"Everyone, I have heard about today's battle. Thank you all for your hard work."

Unexpectedly, when Fairy Qinglian arrived, she neither scolded nor punished anyone. Instead, she thanked everyone for fighting to the death and comforted them with a look of satisfaction.

"It's not hard at all. The fairies in the heavens must be under even more pressure than we are. This is nothing."

The old demon was the first to speak, stepping forward to express everyone's feelings.

“We are now surrounded on all sides, and the celestial envoys are completely encircling us. They are sending reinforcements every moment, while we have cut off our support. If we continue like this, we will surely be defeated if we sit and defend our isolated city! I wonder if the fairy has any backup plans. I hope you can tell me. We are too foolish to understand and need your guidance.”

"That's reasonable and just how it should be."

The Azure Lotus Fairy abandoned her usual dignified demeanor, revealing a gentle and amiable side, unexpectedly displaying the noble bearing of a celestial being, which was quite captivating.

She walked gracefully into the crowd with a smile, first acknowledging everyone's hard work these past few days, then expressing her deep understanding of their situation, and finally stating that the battle was not over yet.

"Blackwater Cliff is the Black Lotus Sect's long-established stronghold throughout the Wanhui era. It was chosen as the location because of its unique terrain, which has made it an unparalleled domain!"

"The Blood Demon Transformation Array is just an appetizer. Do you really think that when I awaken as a seventh-order Supreme Array Master, I won't have a stronger array to protect the final stage?"

"Rest assured, everyone. As long as you can hold on to the end and help me win this battle, I will definitely keep my promise!"

Having said that, she waved her hand slightly.

"Protector Feng, distribute the supplies to everyone."

Protector Feng clapped his hands behind him, and one after another, the Black Lotus Children entered from outside, carrying large red trays on their heads. They came to each person's side according to their instructions and respectfully presented the trays.

"This is a partial payment to everyone before the battle, as a token of my sincerity. I hope you will work together and not give up until the very last moment."

It's understandable that when the decisive battle is approaching, suddenly paying out wages to boost morale is a viable strategy.

But none of them made any rash moves.

They knew perfectly well that if they accepted the offer, they would be stuck on this path with no chance of getting off!
"What, you guys aren't accepting it? Are you trying to disrespect me?"

The Azure Lotus Fairy looked directly at everyone, and all who met her gaze averted their eyes. Only the Old Demon Slayer spoke up for everyone.

"Fairy, it's not that we're ungrateful, but the current war is urgent, and everyone is uncertain about the outcome."

Seeing this scene, Protector Feng couldn't help but come out and rebuke, but was stopped by Fairy Qinglian waving her hand.

She nodded, but her lips moved slightly as she secretly transmitted her thoughts to the old demon.

A moment later, the other person suddenly opened their eyes wide, revealing a look of shock!

He then suddenly accepted the item in front of him and thanked him respectfully:

"Thank you for the treasure, fairy. I have no ulterior motives and will do everything in my power to wipe out the celestial envoy's vassals and ensure they never return!"

"???"

Everyone was completely bewildered, wondering what the old demon had heard that caused such a rapid change in attitude.

Immediately afterwards, Fairy Qinglian sent a telepathic message to the second-strongest expert in the camp, the Water Demon of Qinghe River, who listened quietly.

At some point, as if hearing some explosive news, he suddenly looked astonished!
She then immediately took the tray from the boy and bowed gracefully.

"Rest assured, fairy, I and the entire Tonghe demon clan will fight to the death until we win this battle!"

"Thanks for your hard work."

Everyone was astonished, wondering what the Fairy Qinglian had said next.

However, it's not hard to guess that he probably revealed some of the cards to these two key figures, but because it involved some secrets, he was afraid that too many people would talk and leak them out, so he kept it a secret.

At this point, those with discernment knew what to do.

Since both powerful figures at the late stage of the Nascent Soul realm have changed their minds, it means that this trump card does indeed have the potential to turn the tide. Otherwise, why would the other party risk their two avatars?
"Fairy, I am also willing to stand with the Black Lotus Sect and wish you a great victory in this battle!"

"And me? If I can't trust others, how can I not trust the fairy?"

"I'm willing to stay and fight to the death!" "Rest assured, fairy, I'll stay at Blackwater Cliff and won't go anywhere else!"

"This junior is also willing to serve you like a dog or a horse!"

As more and more people joined and voluntarily accepted the rewards, they all began to express their opinions. It was clear that they trusted the old demon and the Qinghe River demon, and understood that Fairy Qinglian was giving them a way out in order to keep the secret.

Seeing this, Fairy Qinglian smiled slightly, for there are naturally more intelligent people in this world.

Following the general trend and the atmosphere building, everyone gradually calmed down and their emotions stabilized.

One by one, the Black Lotus Children removed their trays and left the cave.

But there was one exception on the field!
While everyone else stood up to express their loyalty, only one person remained seated, completely out of place.

"Leader Lin, why don't you say a word?"

With his keen eyesight, Protector Feng realized that it was the troublemaker, the leader of the Xun Gu Sect, who was causing trouble again. He finally understood that You Meiji's position was not easy to hold. When you encounter someone like this who is disruptive and unruly, you have to deal with them!

At this moment, everyone noticed that there was an oddball among them and turned around.

"What does Protector Feng want this leader to say?"

Lin Shan leaned back lazily in his chair, looking listless.

"The fairy bestows treasures upon me and betrays me, but she gives me nothing and tells me nothing. Is she trying to isolate me?"

It was only then that everyone realized what was going on.

Just now, it seems that only in front of the Ancient Seeking Cult Master did no attendant bring a tray to present treasures, and after the Azure Lotus Fairy communicated with the Scattered Demon Old Ghost and the Qinghe River Water Demon, she did not communicate with him either.

Are you throwing a tantrum?

"Sect Leader Lin, you've already received the final payment from me. What additional reward do you want?"

The Azure Lotus Fairy coldly rebuked him, even feeling that this troublemaker was too unruly.

I've already given you the final payment for the 500th day of incense offerings in advance, and you still want me to bleed you dry? Have some conscience!

Lin Shan said that everyone else has it but he doesn't, which makes this leader lose face.

Look, even that kid Jian Guhan has it!

Besides, I am the third-best expert in our faction, not worthy of your whispered betrayal.

"Then how about I leave?"

Everyone was suddenly startled!
Suddenly, the treasure in his hand felt a little hot, and the people who had just calmed down began to waver again, with anxiety spreading.

On the eve of the final battle, the faction's third-best fighter withdrew, which was a serious blow to morale!

Could the Black Lotus Cult actually win? They couldn't help but wonder again.

"you"

The Azure Lotus Fairy's face turned ashen, her chest heaving violently with anger.

She's starting to regret bringing Lin Shan in; all he does is sabotage her!
Everyone else is refusing to pay the final payment, but you insist on it; everyone else is fine, but you're the one in trouble!

Lin Shan didn't indulge her either. They stared at each other fearlessly. Now the balance of power had shifted, and he held the initiative in his own hands. Especially at crucial moments, the Black Lotus Sect's camp would be in turmoil if he left, which was something the Green Lotus Fairy could never accept.

With such a golden opportunity, wouldn't it be fair to take advantage of it?
If this woman is unkind first, then she can't blame me for being unjust.

"Phew~, okay, tell me, what do you want?"

Left with no other choice, Fairy Qinglian calmed her agitated heart and could only secretly discuss the matter with him via telepathy.

"The final trump card is a secret. If you want to hear it, you must swear a blood oath not to let anyone else know, should the Celestial Envoy's camp have a countermeasure."

"Five hundred years of incense offerings."

Lin Shan shut her up immediately, without rambling on.

"what?"

"I'm too lazy to find out your stupid secrets. Show me something real."

The Azure Lotus Fairy was choked!

Good heavens, another outrageous demand! Five hundred thousand offerings right off the bat. Who do you take me for? Someone who can just conjure up incense for you on a whim?
"Impossible. The entire cultivation world on the continent could only collect a maximum of one hundred stanzas. How much have I given you in total? Do you really think the Black Lotus Sect has no end in sight?"

"I don't care about that. If you don't give it to me, this matter won't be over today."

Lin Shan started cheating, which made Fairy Qinglian grit her teeth in anger. If her true form weren't present, she would have definitely taught him a lesson!

"At most two hundred, I have no more than that."

"No way, that's not how you bargain! Four hundred!"

"That's too much, please make way."

After some haggling, the two finally agreed on a deal via telepathy: three hundred sticks of incense.

With the decisive battle imminent, a moment of life or death, one wrong step could lead to utter ruin! Fairy Qinglian, fearing something might go wrong, had no choice but to make concessions for the sake of her faction's stability, enduring this guy's increasingly audacious behavior, her heart bleeding with pain.

Lin Shan was secretly delighted; this Fairy Qinglian was simply his lucky star!
He kept extorting money from them, again and again, and this trick never failed him. He kept making himself rich like a statue.

He even somewhat wished this decisive battle would end sooner; if he could extort money from him a few more times, wouldn't he be able to take off?

Reaching an agreement meant that neither of them wanted to break ties. Lin Shan stood up respectfully and accepted the arrangement, agreeing to stand with the Black Lotus Sect alongside everyone else present.

The people on the field had different expressions, but most of them were not surprised.

Anyway, only the leader of the Xun Gu Cult is a troublemaker who dares to disrespect the immortals and take advantage of them. They would never have the guts to do that.

"Alright, since everyone has no objections, then let's obediently follow Protector Feng's arrangements."

"If we win, we'll all ascend together!"

"I eagerly await that day, and I hope it won't disappoint me."

The Azure Lotus Fairy transformed into wisps of green smoke and vanished without a trace.

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief, exchanging glances and whispering amongst themselves, all pondering how to save their lives, with the best course of action being to find a reliable ally.

The area around the Qinghe River Demon is a gathering place for demons, forming its own circle, and it's impossible to squeeze in even if you want to.

Most people then chose to follow the old demon, the top expert in their faction, hoping to have a better chance of survival in the final battle.

Chi Hong, Yu Ming Shenjun, Han Hai Yaozun, Jian Guhan and the others came to Lin Shan's side again. The remaining few Nascent Soul stage cultivators did not want to crowd around the old demon ghost, so they also consciously moved closer.

The three major groups on the field were gradually taking shape. Feng Hufa saw this but did not stop them, tacitly approving their actions.

There was only one person who had not sided with either side, standing alone on the sidelines, coldly watching everything unfold.

It was none other than the former commander.

Ghostly Beauty. (End of Chapter)