Liver into a martial arts legend: starting with Embroidered Spring Blade

Chapter 114 Miao Territory Poison! White Lotus Saint Master! Dongfang Bubai! [10,000 words update, please subscribe for the full chapter]

into the night.

All the members of 'Netherworld' gathered at the mansion.

Jiang Xuan sat in the main seat, looked at everyone in the hall, and instructed, "Tomorrow I will leave the capital and head south to assist Lu Xiang-sheng in quelling the rebellions of the White Lotus Sect and the Sun Moon Sect."

"Jin Xiangyu, guard the capital. Xi Yu, Qiu Moyan, and Yang Huizhen, along with a few experts, will secretly accompany me."

The four women nodded in agreement.

"And what about me, Master?" Cheng Shifei asked.

Jiang Xuan glanced at him, pondered for a moment, and said, "Your skill and martial arts are not yet fully mastered, so stay in the capital and help out."

"However, with your current level of cultivation, it's no longer suitable for you to work odd jobs at the inn."

“From now on, you will also work in the Netherworld. I will bestow upon you a title: the Seventh Hall – ‘King of Mount Tai’.”

Upon hearing this, everyone was somewhat surprised.

In particular, everyone sensed the mysterious origin of Cheng Shifei's martial arts skills.

However, since Jiang Xuan didn't say anything, they didn't ask any further questions.

Cheng Shifei's face lit up with joy, and he quickly stood up and bowed, saying, "Yes, thank you, Master!"

He had long wanted to join the organization founded by Jiang Xuan, but unfortunately his martial arts skills were too poor before, and Jiang Xuan was worried about his safety and did not allow him to get involved in the affairs of the Netherworld.

Now, my dream has finally come true.

Of course, most importantly, after joining this organization, he could use the Netherworld's intelligence network to find Tianxiang Doukou and save his mother.

Ever since he learned that his mother was still alive, he couldn't wait a moment longer.

Jiang Xuan ignored his wild thoughts. After explaining everything, he went to the room alone and took out the stack of martial arts manuals.

Martial Arts: Absorbing Energy Technique (Beginner Level)

【Progress: 0/2000】

……

Martial Arts: Indestructible Vajra Divine Skill (Beginner Level)

【Progress: 0/2000】

……

"As expected, even just getting started requires two thousand points of proficiency, which is double that of the Rama Inner Strength. Both are grandmaster-level martial arts!"

Jiang Xuan murmured, somewhat delighted.

He then began to study these two martial arts.

for a long time.

He let out a long sigh: "So that's how it is..."

The martial art of Absorbing Power can be summarized in eighteen characters:
To take credit from others and incorporate it into one's own work is like the ocean embracing all rivers; greatness lies in tolerance!
This martial art is all-encompassing; no matter what kind of power the opponent cultivates, it can directly absorb and refine it into the power most suitable for oneself.

For example, if the true energy one cultivates is the extremely strong and yang Rama true energy, then the true energy one refines will also be of the extremely strong and yang attribute.

Moreover, it's not just about absorbing skills.

It also includes the other party's vital energy and spiritual strength, thereby enhancing oneself.

Furthermore, one can deduce the opponent's energy flow path based on their internal energy circulation, thereby gaining control over their martial arts.

Compared to the Northern Darkness Divine Skill of the Song Dynasty's Free and Unfettered Sect, it is several times more exquisite.

Most importantly, there are no requirements for those who cultivate themselves.

Unlike the Northern Darkness Divine Art, which requires prior knowledge of internal martial arts training, this one cannot be practiced.

The only drawback is that the amount of true energy obtained from absorption and refinement is too small.

Otherwise, the level of this martial art would definitely be higher than this.

As for the Vajra Indestructible Divine Skill, it is as Gu Santong described.

It is also a method that cultivates both essence, energy, and spirit.

Essence refers to the vital energy and physical body; Qi refers to internal strength and true energy; and Spirit refers to mental consciousness.

If all three are cultivated together and mastered, one can develop the "Indestructible Vajra Body," a physique even more powerful than the Vajra Body.

When one practices to perfection, one can achieve the indestructible, poison-resistant, diamond-like, and supremely invincible Hunyuan Gongti (Primordial Chaos Body).

Not only is its empowering power astonishing, but it is also unshakable by any external force. At the same time, it can greatly enhance the power of the attack, and each move is imbued with extremely strong 'perfectly round and auspicious' internal energy.

Unrivaled in defense, unrivaled in offense!
"Once you master these two divine skills, you won't need to rely on any other martial arts to become a top expert in the martial arts world!"

Jiang Xuan took a deep breath, suppressing the shock in his heart.

Immediately, following the cultivation path of the Absorption Technique, he began to open and expand his meridians, preparing to first master this divine skill of absorbing people's internal energy before practicing the Vajra Indestructible Divine Skill, cultivating both simultaneously.

As for other martial arts skills, you can practice them gradually in your spare time.

……

The next day.

At the Embroidered Uniform Guard headquarters, Xu Longqing and An Jianqing, two commanders of the Thousand Households, along with Pei Xing, Ding Xiu, Jin Yichuan, and ten other centurions, gathered and saluted in unison.

"Meet the Governor!"

Jiang Xuan, dressed in a flying fish robe, sat high on the throne, his gaze slowly sweeping over the crowd, nodding secretly.

Six months later, Xu Longqing and his group have improved their momentum and strength considerably.

Currently, they are all at the Innate Realm.

His dedication in teaching internal skills to several people was not in vain.

Jiang Xuan looked at Luo Yangxing beside him and instructed, "Commander Luo, during my absence from the capital, I will be entrusting the affairs of the Embroidered Uniform Guard to you."

Luo Yangxing quickly stood up and solemnly cupped his hands in greeting: "Please rest assured, Governor, I will do my best to share your burdens!"

Jiang Xuan nodded, said no more, picked up his knife, stood up, and strode out.

"set off!"

Half an hour later.

More than a thousand Imperial Guards, led by Jiang Xuan, marched out of the capital and disappeared on the official road in the south.

at the same time.

One by one, carrier pigeons quietly flew out of the capital.

This message was then spread throughout the Ming Dynasty, reaching various factions that were constantly monitoring the situation in the capital.

……

The peasant uprisings in Shandong initially occurred in only a dozen or so prefectures and counties in Shandong and Henan provinces.

In fact, the prototype had already been formed as early as last year, before Emperor Chongzhen ascended the throne.

The main reason is still the heavy taxes.

At that time, Emperor Tianqi was seriously ill, and Wei Zhongxian rarely paid attention to state affairs, focusing instead on implementing his "substitution of the crown prince" scheme.

And this is also the time when the annual autumn tax is collected.

Because of the lax governance, opportunities for officials to embezzle and make money began to emerge.

Other places are a bit better.

However, the disaster situation in Shandong and Henan provinces was already severe this year. The people themselves couldn't even feed themselves, so where would they get any surplus grain to pay taxes?
At this critical moment, the eunuch faction in various regions continued to exploit the people, not only embezzling and dividing up the disaster relief grain allocated by the court, but also privately increasing taxes.

This is undoubtedly forcing ordinary people to the brink of starvation.

What if you can't survive?
Then the only path left is rebellion.

As a result, some small-scale unrest had already occurred in various places at that time.

Just as the Tianqi Emperor died and the Chongzhen Emperor ascended the throne, he began to crack down on the eunuch faction, causing turmoil in the court.

The White Lotus sect emerged.

Under the slogan of "the white lotus descends to earth, and all people are overthrown," they quickly gathered a group of followers, taught them evil magic, and went around bewitching refugees and attacking government offices.

In just a few months, it grew to tens of thousands of people.

The unrest then erupted in full force.

Although the imperial court promptly dispatched troops to suppress the White Lotus Sect, the sect was well-prepared and had many skilled members. During the battle with the government troops, both sides suffered casualties.

However, the Ming army never managed to damage the core of the White Lotus sect.

It wasn't until Lu Xiang-sheng changed his strategy and transferred troops from other provinces to encircle the White Lotus Sect that its very survival was truly threatened.

Just as the encirclement plan was progressing smoothly, the Sun Moon Cult reappeared.

With the assistance of the Sun Moon Sect, the Ming army was thrown into turmoil, and many of its commanders were assassinated. Taking advantage of this opportunity, the core members of the White Lotus Sect broke through the encirclement and entered the Huguang region.

In just over ten days, it triggered another upheaval in Hubei and Hunan.

As a result, the unrest that was originally limited to Shandong and Henan has now spread to Shandong, Henan, Hunan, Hubei and even the Jiangnan region.

The situation has reached a point where it is out of control.

……

Official road of Jinxiang County, Yanzhou Prefecture.

The Imperial Guard army arrived at this point.

The front of the team.

Jiang Xuan, dressed in a yellow flying fish robe and riding a white horse, looked at the scene before him with a slightly gloomy expression.

Upon entering the territory of Yanzhou, the aftermath of the turmoil was already visible.

Many towns and villages bear traces of looting by the rebel army, with houses burned down and corpses left behind.

Adding to the problem was the drought, the dried-up riverbeds, the abandoned fields, and the poor harvests. Almost every short distance, one would encounter refugees migrating to the surrounding areas, all dressed in rags and emaciated, looking almost no different from beggars.

When I went south last year, the scene was one of peace and prosperity.

In just one year, things have turned out like this.

It’s like a lifetime ago!

As they continued south, the situation worsened.

Lin Pingzhi, standing beside Jiang Xuan, saw the devastation and felt anger in his eyes. He turned to Jiang Xuan and asked in confusion, "Master, didn't the imperial court already allocate funds for disaster relief? How could it have turned out like this?"

Jiang Xuan remained silent.

He also had doubts about this matter.

After the uprising, in addition to sending troops to suppress it, the imperial court also allocated funds to various prefectures and counties severely affected by the disaster on several occasions to provide relief to the victims.

It must be at least a million taels.

With so much money, it should be no problem to keep the disaster victims in Shandong and Henan alive and ensure their basic living standards.

Why then do these disaster victims still migrate in large numbers instead of seeking refuge in the nearest prefectural city?
Jiang Xuan narrowed his eyes slightly, a vague guess forming in his mind.

There must have been some unforeseen event that happened to this batch of disaster relief funds.

Hoof-clack, hoof-clack...

The rapid sound of horses' hooves interrupted Jiang Xuan's thoughts.

"Report~!"

A scout on horseback arrived quickly and reported urgently: "Reporting to the Commander, we have discovered the White Lotus Rebels looting a village three miles ahead!"

Everyone's expressions changed.

"How brave!"

Jiang Xuan suddenly looked up, a strong killing intent flashing in his eyes, and waved his hand to order: "Speed ​​up the march and intercept these White Lotus Cult members!"

……

The sun shines on the western mountains.

Thick smoke billowed from a small village located just a few hundred meters from the official road, and screams and cries filled the air.

One after another, fierce-looking figures, wielding knives and weapons, were looting all the valuables in the village, with many carrying pigs, sheep, chickens, ducks and other livestock on their shoulders.

Even worse, some broke into villagers' homes, wielding knives to kill and raping peasant women.

In the open space in the center of the village, a dozen strong male villagers were driven there by several men with knives, their faces filled with panic and unease.

"The Eternal Mother, the Pure Land of Emptiness, descended upon the world from the White Lotus, bestowing upon me divine powers, enabling all people to rise up and restoring my holy lineage."

A white-clad man, wielding a strange staff, slowly approached the group of anxious villagers, reciting the White Lotus mantra with piety. His body was also embroidered with patterns of the White Lotus Holy Fire.

Behind him followed two strange figures shrouded in black robes, emanating a faint, pungent odor.

Just smelling this odor made the dozen or so villagers in the room feel dizzy and their fear intensified.

An older, middle-aged villager, suppressing his fear, kowtowed to the man in white and pleaded, "Heroes, you...you can take whatever you want, please...let us go!"

"Goodness is goodness."

The man in white smiled and said, "The world is in chaos, and the people are suffering. Why not join my White Lotus Holy Sect? We are all of the same kind, with the White Lotus as our father, brothers sharing the same roots, and young and old united in heart. We are not distinguished by status, but share joys and sorrows. By following my teachings and worshipping the Eternal Mother, we can be reborn in the Pure Land."

The villagers trembled and cried out, "Isn't this a rebellion...? Heroes, we are just a group of ignorant villagers, we know nothing, we dare not do such a treasonous thing! Please, heroes, let us go..."

"Be bold!"

A member of the White Lotus sect walked over, glaring and shouting, "The altar master values ​​you, how dare you refuse?"

"Either join my holy religion or die. Choose one!"

The White Lotus Sect Master waved his hand slightly, still smiling, and said, "Our White Lotus Holy Sect prioritizes benevolence and righteousness, and never forces others to join our sect. You may take your time to consider it."

Benevolence and righteousness?

The villagers looked back at the surrounding firelight, listened to the screams of their wives and children, and felt grief in their hearts, but dared not say a word. Facing the fierce and menacing gazes of the White Lotus sect members, they could only bow their heads in sorrow and say, "We are willing to join the Holy Sect."

"good!"

The White Lotus Altar Master nodded in satisfaction.

"Altar Master!"

A member of the White Lotus Cult stepped forward respectfully and said, "It's about time. We can set off now."

"Ah."

The White Lotus Altar Master nodded slightly: "Then give the order and prepare to depart."

"If we delay too long, it will attract the attention of the government troops, which will be difficult to handle. The most urgent task is to go to Huguang to meet up with the leader."

"Yes!"

The White Lotus followers immediately turned around and went to give the orders.

Rumble…

Suddenly, the ground began to tremble slightly.

"what happened?"

Everyone's expressions changed slightly.

The White Lotus Altar Master turned his head and looked over, and his expression immediately changed.

"Damn it!"

"Most of the officers and soldiers in the nearby military garrisons have been transferred away by Lu Xiang-sheng. Where did so many officers and soldiers come from?"

Puzzled, but not daring to be careless, the White Lotus Altar Master immediately shouted an order: "Retreat!"

"Don't bother with things you can't take, hurry up!"

stomping on...

A group of White Lotus cult members immediately gathered, some even pulling down their pants as they ran, chasing away a dozen or so villagers, and following the White Lotus leader as he fled down a side path.

Hoof-clack, hoof-clack...

Just then, a large number of warhorses appeared ahead, and the figures on horseback were all clad in armor and wielding sharp weapons. The long swords in their hands gleamed brightly in the sunlight.

"Oh no, Master!"

"It's the Royal Guards!"

The White Lotus Altar Master's pupils contracted, and he was immediately filled with panic.

Jinyiwei!
Why would the Imperial Guards be here?!
"kill!"

With a loud shout, countless Imperial Guards charged in from both sides of the road, their momentum far surpassing that of the White Lotus Sect members.

The group leading the group consisted of Ding Xiu and Pei Xing, among others.

"Protect the altar master, retreat!"

The followers of the sect protected the White Lotus Altar Master in the center and engaged in a fierce battle with the surrounding Imperial Guards.

The White Lotus Altar Master's face was grim. He gritted his teeth and suddenly shook his staff, which rang with a clear bell sound.

"Ho ho~"

Upon hearing the bell, the two strange men in black robes behind the White Lotus Altar Master slowly raised their heads, as if stimulated, and a roar like that of wild beasts came from their throats.

"kill!"

The White Lotus Altar Master gave a cold shout and shook his staff again.

"Roar~!"

The two men in black robes immediately roared and darted out, moving with incredible speed, and rushed into the crowd in the blink of an eye.

ding ding ding~
As steel blades struck the two men in black robes, they produced a crisp, metallic clang, sending sparks flying.

Everyone was horrified. What kind of monsters were these two?

Sizzle, sizzle~

Just as the two Imperial Guards were about to make their move, two men in black robes grabbed their shoulders and tore them apart in one swift motion, instantly sending blood and internal organs flying everywhere, a truly gruesome scene.

Wow~
Upon seeing this bloody scene, the surrounding crowd turned pale and retreated in unison.

"Ok?"

A surprised exclamation came from within the ranks of the Imperial Guards.

Jiang Xuan frowned slightly, looking at the two incredibly strong men in black robes on the battlefield, sensing that something was amiss.

"Long Qing, go and take a look."

"Yes, Commander!"

Xu Longqing immediately spurred his horse forward and shouted, "Get out of the way!"

The Imperial Guards scattered from both sides.

Xu Longqing leaped into the air, simultaneously patting the 'Fourteen Forms of the Great Ming' on his back. A long sword flew out of the box and landed in Xu Longqing's hand.

sigh~
The blade flashed, and with the force of splitting Mount Hua, it slashed at a man in black robes.

With a hiss, the man in black robes was cleaved in two by a single blade as soon as he turned around. His body writhed violently on the ground for a moment before falling silent.

But this strike also cleaved open the robe on the black-robed man's body.

What was wrapped in the black robe was a humanoid monster covered in a black substance. It had no hair at all, and its skin was as uneven as polished iron. Some parts were torn open, and the internal muscles were rotting. Maggots could be seen crawling inside, making it look extremely disgusting.

"What the hell is this?!"

Xu Longqing's expression changed slightly as he looked at the long sword in his hand. He saw that the sword was also covered in black blood, which seemed to have a corrosive power, making a sizzling sound and causing white smoke to rise from the blade.

"roar~"

Before they could react, another strange man in black robes roared and charged over.

Xu Longqing instinctively swung his sword backhand, sending the black-robed man flying. However, the sword did not break through the man's defenses; it merely tore open the man's clothes, and the blade grazed his skin, sending sparks flying.

A look of seriousness flashed in Xu Longqing's eyes, but he was not afraid. He immediately gripped his broadsword and charged out.

"Damn it, stop!"

At this moment, the White Lotus Altar Master also reacted. Seeing that one of the black-robed figures had been killed, his expression changed slightly, and he rushed towards Xu Longqing, attempting to protect the remaining black-robed figure.

Ding!
Xu Longqing turned around to defend himself, but was struck on the blade by the White Lotus Altar Master's staff, which forced him back four or five steps.

Meanwhile, the black-robed monster behind him roared and charged forward. Although Xu Longqing's martial arts had improved considerably, he had only reached the first-rate level. With the added strength of his early-stage innate internal energy, he was slightly stronger than an average first-rate master.

The White Lotus Altar Master's skills were roughly equal to his, but with the black-robed strange man also holding him back, Xu Longqing was struggling to fight two opponents at once and was quickly forced into a series of defeats, facing constant danger.

ding ding ding

The sounds of fierce clashes continued unabated...

Jiang Xuan stood behind on horseback, paying no attention to the White Lotus Altar Master. His gaze remained fixed on the strange man in black robes. Seeing that Xu Longqing was no match for him, he waved his hand again: "An Jianqing."

"Yes, Commander!"

An Jianqing cupped his hands in greeting, then flashed off his horse and joined the battle.

Swish!
The longsword swept horizontally, its speed several times faster than Xu Longqing's.

Click~

The remaining black-robed monster trembled, its head was severed, and it collapsed to the ground convulsing.

The black robe fell down, revealing a jet-black head that was strikingly similar to the one from before.

"My poisonous corpse!"

The White Lotus Altar Master's expression changed drastically, and he flew into a rage, immediately turning around and attacking An Jianqing.

"You dare kill my poisonous corpses?! I'll kill you all!!"

Poisoned corpse?

An Jianqing's eyes flickered slightly, but he didn't think much of it. He used his sword to block the White Lotus Altar Master's staff and quickly suppressed him.

Taking advantage of the opportunity, Xu Longqing slashed him down with a backhand strike, then immediately stepped forward and pressed the cold blade against the White Lotus Altar Master's neck.

"Altar Master!"

The surrounding followers were shocked and immediately rushed forward to try to rescue him.

However, under the restraint and elimination efforts of Ding Xiu and others, they soon died one after another.

Seeing that the killing was nearly complete, Jiang Xuan slowly rode forward, glanced at the corpses of the two black-robed monsters, then looked at the White Lotus Altar Master, and said calmly, "I ask, you answer; otherwise, die!"

The White Lotus Altar Master's face was deathly pale. Looking at his subordinates, who had been almost completely wiped out, he suddenly let out a bitter laugh and said, "The White Lotus descended to earth and bestowed upon me supernatural powers. The Holy Lord will avenge me!"

Chi~
As soon as he finished speaking, he deliberately brought his neck close to Xu Longqing's steel knife, slashed it hard, and fell down with his eyes wide open.

"Altar Master!"

The remaining members of the White Lotus sect shouted in grief and indignation.

Jiang Xuan frowned and waved his hand, saying, "Bring him here!"

Several Imperial Guards immediately escorted over several members of the White Lotus Cult.

Jiang Xuan said coldly, "And you? Do you want to live or die?"

One of the followers stared intently at Jiang Xuan: "We would never betray the Holy Church, don't even dream about it!"

Jiang Xuan waved.

laugh!
The follower's eyes widened as he collapsed.

"what about you?"

"If you have the guts, then kill me..."

laugh!
Only two people remain.

Looking at the corpses of their two companions and the White Lotus Altar Master, a hint of fear finally appeared in their eyes. They swallowed hard, exchanged a glance, and said in trembling voices, "We...want to live!"

Jiang Xuan said indifferently, "I'll ask, you answer."

After a while.

With the explanation from two members of the White Lotus Cult, Jiang Xuan learned about the origins of this group.

The White Lotus Sect, from top to bottom, has one leader, two protectors, ten elders, and thirty-six altar masters.

The white-clad man who just died was Shi Jinxuan, one of the thirty-six leaders of the 'Lotus Branch Altar'.

After a six-month crackdown, it is said that more than a dozen leaders and elders of the White Lotus Sect have died.

Shi Jinxuan previously commanded more than two thousand men, but in the battle against the Ming army half a month ago, only a few dozen core followers remained.

Moreover, after the last battle, they were scattered by the Ming army and fled to Yanzhou, where they hid for more than half a month. Only after the Ming army dispersed did they learn that the main force of the White Lotus Sect had fled to the Huguang region. So they prepared to go to Huguang to join the main force of the White Lotus Sect.

Today, I was passing through this village, just about to replenish my supplies and then lead my men to vent their frustrations, when I unexpectedly encountered the Imperial Guards heading south.

That's really bad luck.

Jiang Xuan looked at the two corpses of the strange men in black robes and asked, "What happened to these two people?"

He had sensed something was off when he watched Xu Longqing fight the two men in black robes.

Even with Xu Longqing's strength at the early stage of the Innate Realm, he still needed to go all out to break through the defenses of these two black-robed men. What a terrifying concept that is!

In other words, below the first-class level, even the defenses of these two black-robed men cannot be broken, let alone killed.

Such a powerful physical body is almost as strong as the copper skin and iron bones that I had painstakingly cultivated before!

Moreover, the two men in black robes were extremely strong and fast; even ordinary top-tier experts would probably be no match for them.

But for some reason, these two men in black robes seemed to lack intelligence. When they fought, they relied entirely on their strength, defense, and speed to charge around recklessly, without knowing how to dodge at all.

The two White Lotus Cult members also glanced at the two corpses, a hint of fear flashing in their eyes. They shook their heads and said, "We don't know either. We only know that these two poisonous corpses were a gift from the Grand Elder to Master Shi. Master Shi cherishes them very much and feeds them with human blood every now and then."

"Poisoned corpses, fed with human blood?"

Jiang Xuan frowned, feeling increasingly uneasy.

"Captain!"

At this moment, An Jianqing suddenly said, "I have heard of this kind of poisonous corpse before."

Jiang Xuan turned to look at him.

An Jianqing's eyes were somewhat solemn as he said, "This kind of poisonous corpse most likely comes from the Miao region in western Hunan."

"It is said that there is a peculiar art of corpse driving that is passed down there. It can bring the dead back to life. With the help of a large number of poisons and Gu worms, the corpse is turned into a poisonous corpse, and the Gu worms are used to control the corpse to drive its movement."

"These poison corpses, refined from poisonous substances, not only carry potent toxins throughout their bodies but also possess extremely strong defensive capabilities. The more powerful a person was in life, the more powerful their poison corpse will be after death."

"However, the Gu worms need to be fed with human blood every now and then, otherwise the Gu worms will die and the poisonous corpse will be useless."

"Moreover, once the poisonous corpse dies, the Gu worms will also die quickly without a host."

"This kind of evil magic used to create poisonous corpses appeared once twenty years ago. At that time, a group of Miao people used this evil magic to kill indiscriminately in the martial arts world, causing quite a stir. They were eventually wiped out by the imperial court. After that, this evil magic was lost."

"I never expected it to reappear now!"

Upon hearing this, everyone was somewhat shocked.

Is there really such an evil technique in this world that can turn the dead into poisonous corpses and bring them back to life?!

Jiang Xuan was also somewhat surprised.

However, considering it was a kind of evil magic from the Miao region, I felt relieved.

Since ancient times, the Miao region has been known for its numerous strange and evil arts, especially the use of Gu poison.

For thousands of years, various legends about Miao witchcraft have been passed down.

Jiang Xuan looked at the two corpses and ordered, "Cut open their heads and take a look."

"Yes!"

Two Imperial Guards immediately stepped forward and carefully used their knives to cut open the poisoned corpse's head, whereupon they found two dead Gu worms.

A golden silkworm, a centipede.

It is much larger than ordinary silkworm centipedes.

Upon seeing this, everyone subconsciously swallowed, feeling somewhat apprehensive and fearful.

"It seems the White Lotus Sect is much more troublesome than I imagined..."

As his guess came true, a look of seriousness flashed in Jiang Xuan's eyes.

Furthermore, he had a vague idea of ​​the reason why the Sun Moon Sect suddenly joined forces with the White Lotus Sect to launch a rebellion.

Most of the followers of the Sun Moon Cult are also Miao people.

Over the years, they have been active in the Nanzhao and Qiannan areas.

Its headquarters are said to be located on a cliff called Heimuya in the Qiannan region.

Although one was in western Hunan and the other in southern Guizhou, they were both Miao people, so it was not surprising that they colluded to rebel.

"Sir, we've told you everything we know, and not a single word of it is a lie. Can you spare our lives?"

At this moment, two members of the White Lotus Cult trembled and begged for mercy.

Jiang Xuan snapped out of his daze, glanced at the two men, then at the looted village beside them, and without a word, turned his horse around and ordered, "Continue south and head to Kaifeng as soon as possible to meet up with Lu Xiang-sheng."

"Yes!"

The crowd shouted in unison, immediately cleaned up the battlefield, mounted their horses, and quickly followed.

Tsk, tsk!

Just as the two White Lotus Cult members breathed a sigh of relief, a Jinyiwei guard beside them slit their throats with a single blow, and they collapsed to the ground convulsing.

Soon, the army dispersed, leaving behind only the corpses of White Lotus Sect members scattered on the ground.

The remaining dozen or so villagers looked at the corpses and remains scattered on the ground, and the burned-out village. They looked at each other and finally couldn't help but burst into tears.

"Damn it, God, what...what did we do wrong...?"

"Why are we being punished like this? Waaah..."

……

The Huguang region.

On the outskirts of a remote town, there stands a dilapidated ancient temple.

Inside the ancient temple, there were about a dozen figures standing.

They were all dressed in white robes, embroidered with white lotus and sacred fire patterns.

"Is everyone here?"

Standing in front of the shrine, a figure shrouded entirely in a white robe asked in a hoarse voice.

"Reporting to the Master, apart from a few branch masters who are still in Shandong, Henan, Southern Zhili, and Jiangnan, everyone else has arrived!"

An older man in front of them respectfully cupped his hands in greeting.

This person was none other than the Grand Elder of the White Lotus Sect.

The White Lotus Sect Leader shifted his gaze, slowly sweeping it over the crowd, and asked, "Where is the Second Elder?"

"Reporting to the Sect Master, the Second Elder was also separated from his group during the battle and was trapped in Nanyang along with the three others, including the Dragon Altar Master. However, we have made contact with them and are trying to find a way to rescue them."

The Grand Elder replied.

The White Lotus Sect Leader's gaze darkened, and he said, "If we can't bring out those ordinary followers, we should give up decisively. But the Second Elder is extremely important to the foundation of our Holy Sect, and we absolutely cannot afford to lose him. We must find a way to rescue him as soon as possible!"

As he spoke, the White Lotus Sect Leader turned to look at a dark figure beside the shrine: "Zhao Wuji, you must make the trip yourself and rescue the Second Elder no matter what!"

"Yes, Sect Master!"

A man dressed in black and white protective robes stepped forward and respectfully bowed.

The White Lotus Sect Leader looked at everyone and continued, "Our Holy Sect suffered heavy losses in this battle, but as long as you are all still here, our Holy Sect has a chance to rise again."

"I have already formed an alliance with the Eastern Leader of the Sun Moon Sect. With the assistance of the Sun Moon Sect, it won't be long before we can recover our strength and rebuild our foundation!"

"From now on, you shall operate in the Huguang region and develop your followers as quickly as possible!"

The crowd respectfully cupped their hands and devoutly chanted the White Lotus mantra: "Eternal Mother, True Emptiness Homeland!"

"We will obey the leader's command!"

The White Lotus Sect Leader nodded slightly, then looked at the Grand Elder again and asked, "Grand Elder, how is the poison corpse making going?"

A hint of joy appeared in the Grand Elder's eyes as he said, "Master, yesterday the tribesmen from the Southern Frontier sent another batch of insects. I'm currently cultivating them, and within a month at most, another batch of Gu worms will be ready..."

After a moment's hesitation, the elder said, "However, the materials for poisonous corpses are hard to find, and we don't have enough host bodies at the moment."

"You don't need to worry about the materials and the host."

The White Lotus Sect Leader said in a hoarse voice, "I have already contacted the 'Five Poisons Child,' the leader of the 'Paradise Cave' of my Miao lineage. He will arrive to help within half a month at the latest."

"He is an expert in the use of poisons. I will ask him for your help when the time comes."

The Grand Elder's face lit up with joy, and he said, "If Senior Five Poisons could help us, that would be wonderful!"

"However, the host of the Gu worm..."

The White Lotus Cult Leader turned his gaze to the person behind him and asked, "Ah San, did you find out the details of that big boss in town?"

A man in white robes stepped forward and respectfully cupped his hands: "Reporting to the Master, the investigation is still ongoing, but I suspect that this 'big boss' might be a member of the 'Celestial Venerable'!"

"Tianzun?"

The White Lotus Sect Leader frowned, then snorted coldly and said, "When did it become the territory of the Heavenly Venerable to control?

"Continue the investigation. Once you've found out the truth, take action immediately!"

"These people are quite strong. If we kill them, they'll become a ready-made host!"

"Yes!" Ah San replied respectfully.

"No need to check!"

Suddenly, a soft yet domineering voice came from outside: "I have already investigated for you. This 'Xiaoyue Tower' is indeed a branch of the 'Celestial Venerable' here."

Everyone's expression changed slightly, and they quickly turned around to look.

Then a figure in red appeared at the entrance of the dilapidated temple.

Then, a handsome figure, yet exuding a captivating charm and an androgynous air, slowly walked in.

Her gentle and feminine temperament was accompanied by an extremely arrogant and domineering air.

Despite such contradictory looks and temperament, it doesn't seem strange or out of place on him at all.

In his arms, he was also holding a pretty and charming woman.

"The Eastern Cult Leader!"

Upon seeing this person, the members of the White Lotus Sect all bowed and paid their respects with utmost deference.

Because the person before them was currently the strongest and most renowned expert among their Miao lineage—

The leader of the Sun Moon Cult, Dongfang Bubai!
"The Eastern Cult Leader".

The White Lotus Sect Leader also bowed slightly, then a hint of doubt appeared in his eyes as he asked, "Does Sect Leader Dongfang mean that the experts in Xiaoyue Tower in town are indeed people of the Heavenly Venerable?"

Dongfang Bubai nodded slightly: "Two years ago, this place was ruled by a force called 'Iron Blood Sect'. Later, the Iron Blood Sect was destroyed by the Heavenly Venerable, and this place became a branch of the Heavenly Venerable."

"The big boss of Xiaoyue Tower has to make offerings to the Heavenly Venerable every month."

The White Lotus Sect Leader nodded, then his gaze turned slightly cold as he said, "This Celestial Venerable doesn't stay in Jiangnan properly. He dares to come to our Miao people's territory to bully and oppress us. It seems there's really no need to investigate him."

"Let's make our move tonight and wipe them all out!"

"From now on, this Bitter Sea Town will serve as the headquarters of my White Lotus Sect."

"It just so happens that this place is remote and easy to defend, making it difficult for the imperial court to invade."

Dongfang Bubai remained noncommittal, his slender, woman-like fingers gently stroking the face of the woman in his arms, and said casually, "This Heavenly Venerable's people are nothing to worry about. What you need to worry about now is something else."

"What does the Eastern Cult Leader mean?" The White Lotus Cult Leader looked puzzled.

Dongfang Bubai chuckled and said, "I just received news that the newly appointed commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard has led his men out of the capital and is heading south to Kaifeng Prefecture."

Everyone's expressions changed slightly.

The White Lotus Sect Leader frowned and said, "The Eastern Sect Leader is referring to Jiang Xuan, who, in just two and a half years, solved numerous major cases, wiped out the Qingcheng Sect, and single-handedly assisted Emperor Chongzhen in ascending the throne, eliminating the eunuch faction, and rising to the position of Commander of the Embroidered Uniform Guard?"

"It is indeed this person." Dongfang Bubai nodded slightly.

The White Lotus Sect Leader frowned even more deeply: "It is said that this person's martial arts strength is also extremely strong. Half a year ago, he had already comprehended the sword intent. Even the mysterious master of the Green Robe Pavilion was seriously injured by him with a single strike and fled. There has been no news of him since."

"If this person really comes to assist Lu Xiang-sheng, we will indeed be in some trouble."

Dongfang Bubai said calmly, "Personal bravery is nothing to fear."

"Even if he has truly grasped the essence of the sword, I am not afraid. The real trouble lies with the Embroidered Uniform Guard."

"The Imperial Guards of the capital are very good at dealing with martial arts masters. If they are fully equipped, they can surround and kill even a grandmaster."

"As long as he diverts his manpower to protect the court's military commanders, the previous plan will not work."

The White Lotus Cult Leader narrowed his eyes, pondered for a moment, and said, "Since the decapitation plan cannot be carried out, let's try another method!"

"I have contacted the Five Poison Boys of Bliss Cave for help. With the help of the people of Bliss Cave, we can kill people without them even realizing it."

The White Lotus Sect Leader sneered and said, "No matter how many people they have, they can't go without food and water. There are plenty of ways to kill them!"

"Once the Grand Elder's poisonous corpse is refined, that will be our chance to counterattack!"

"You're really vicious!"

Dongfang Bubai glanced at him and said indifferently, "Do what you want to do. I'm only responsible for helping you deal with the other side's experts."

"As for what I want, you should know."

The White Lotus Sect Leader nodded slightly: "Don't worry, Sect Leader Dongfang. As long as you help my White Lotus Sect achieve great things, when the time is right, I will force the imperial court to hand over the complete 'Sunflower Manual' and personally deliver it to you."

Dongfang Bubai nodded in satisfaction.

The reason he chose to help the White Lotus Sect was...

Firstly, since they are both Miao people, if the White Lotus Sect could truly succeed, it would change the status of the Miao people and free them from the oppression and bullying of the Central Plains people.

Secondly, it was for the complete Sunflower Manual.

Everyone knows that the reason why Dongfang Bubai became famous in the martial arts world and achieved such unparalleled martial arts skills was because of the Sunflower Manual.

Little did he know, the Sunflower Manual in his hands was only an incomplete version.

The complete version of the Sunflower Manual is said to have been created by a eunuch in the inner palace. It was later stolen by a monk from the Putian Shaolin Temple and kept by the then abbot of Shaolin Temple, Zen Master Hongye.

Later, Yue Su and Cai Zifeng, disciples of the Huashan Sect, visited the Shaolin Temple in Putian, secretly read the treasure manual, and brought it back to Huashan, which sparked a conflict between the sword and qi factions of the Huashan Sect.

Subsequently, the Sun Moon Cult learned of this and launched a major attack on Mount Hua, seizing the incomplete copy made by Yue Su and Cai Zifeng. This is how this part of the Sunflower Manual ended up in his hands.

With just this incomplete manuscript, he defeated Ren Woxing, seized the position of leader of the Sun Moon Sect, and became a demon lord feared by all factions in the martial arts world.

However, his martial arts skills have now reached a bottleneck due to the unique nature of the Sunflower Manual.

If you want to continue improving, you either have to abandon your Sunflower True Qi and switch to another method, or you have to find the complete version of the Sunflower Manual.

However, the complete martial arts manual of Putian Shaolin Temple was burned by Abbot Hongye.

In other words, the only place in the world where a complete genealogy might exist is the Imperial Palace.

But Dongfang Bubai dared not go to that place.

Therefore, taking advantage of the White Lotus Rebellion, he reached a cooperation agreement with the White Lotus Sect and offered his assistance.

The price was that the White Lotus Sect would have to help him obtain the complete Sunflower Manual after the deed was done.

As for uprisings and struggles for supremacy.

He has no interest in the fact that his divine skills are not yet fully developed.

"Remember what you promised me. If you fail to do so, even if we are both Miao people, I will not show any mercy!"

Dongfang Bubai glanced at the White Lotus Cult Leader, then turned and left.

The leader of the White Lotus Cult bowed to see them off.

"correct."

Reaching the door, as if remembering something, Dongfang Bubai paused and said, "Don't blame me for not reminding you, if you want to take over Bitter Sea Town, besides dealing with the Heavenly Venerable's people, you also need to be careful of one person."

"Who does the Eastern Cult Leader refer to?" the White Lotus Cult Leader asked.

Dongfang Bubai said calmly, "Recently, a swordsman of considerable skill has come to the pile of corpses in the western suburbs."

"His name is Yan Shisan."

As soon as the voice faded, Dongfang Bubai's figure had vanished.

The White Lotus Sect leader paused, then murmured, "Northwest Swordsman, Thirteen Deadly Swords, Yan Shisan..."

(End of this chapter)