Family Cultivation: Rise of the Wilderness

Chapter 495 Golden Feather Iron Claw Eagle

More than ten streaks of light pierced the sky.

Li Xiangming was flying with a Bailu Sect disciple named Zheng Yuzhu, his brows furrowed deeply.

He initially thought the Mang Cult's pursuit of Bailu Sect disciples was simply a matter of revenge.

After all, the Bailu Sect had targeted the Mang Sect quite a bit in Pu County.

According to information released by Bailumen, they even set up a trap in Dahuang Town, using the guidance of a traitor from the Mang Cult to wipe out the Mang Cult's important stronghold in Pubei in one fell swoop.

It should be noted that when Li Xiangren pursued the Mang Sect for over a month, he only managed to scrape off a tiny, insignificant layer of their skin.

Having suffered such a great loss, the Mang Sect naturally harbors deep hatred for the Bailu Sect. Given the chance, they would do anything to retaliate against a lawless and vicious scoundrel like Yin Guangyang.

However, after hearing the whole story of Zheng Yuzhu and Liu Lingzhou's misfortune, Li Xiangming realized that the Mang Sect had attacked Bailumen's camp in Daishan with overwhelming superiority.

Elders Wen Zhengju and Ma Houchen, along with Daoist Huangye and Daoist Liyuan, a total of four cultivators in the mid-to-late stages of Foundation Establishment, failed to stop the Mang Sect. In fact, three of the four were killed. Only Ma Houchen, who possessed a high-level defensive magic bell, did not die on the spot but disappeared without a trace.

If even Foundation Establishment cultivators suffered such a fate, the plight of the 150 disciples from the three sects was even more appalling. It was only because the Mang Sect deployed relatively few people that a few managed to escape.

The Mang Sect was not satisfied and sent Yin Guangyang and others to continue the pursuit. If Zheng Yuzhu and Liu Lingzhou had not run into the Demon Suppression Camp heading north, the two would not have escaped their fate.

When did the Mang Cult become so powerful?

Feeling uneasy, Li Xiangming pressed on, "Did that mysterious black-robed cultivator who made Elder Ma change color have a Bone Fusion stage snake pet by his side?"

"you know?"

Zheng Yuzhu paused for a moment, then blurted out.

Li Xiangming took a deep breath and replied, "More than ten years ago, your Bailu Sect's cargo ship was attacked on the Pu River. I was on the ship as well. The attacker was a mysterious black-robed cultivator who could control snake pets."

After saying that, Li Xiangming's face turned completely gloomy.

At that time, he and Li Qianhe were still guessing each other's identities, even guessing that it was Cao Yanjun's maternal family, but they couldn't guess that it was the Mang Sect.

Although the Mang Sect had gained considerable popularity after moving from Zhangning Prefecture to Shun'an Prefecture, it was considered by most people to be a third-rate sect with no strength, no unity, and no future.

For the past few centuries, no Foundation Establishment cultivators have emerged in the Mang Sect.

How could a master at the Great Perfection of Foundation Establishment suddenly appear?
In retrospect, these were all misunderstandings about Manchu religion among the general public.

At that time, the leader of the Mang Sect was already Hou Xianbo, who was suspected to have reached the Golden Core stage. He also had capable subordinates such as Faceless Man and Liu Xiong Yu. Below him, there were seven extraordinary people, including Madam Zhen, Blind Luo, and the Ghost King.

It doesn't seem so inconceivable that a black-robed monk would join such a cult.

Thinking of this, Li Xiangming gave a wry smile.

If the black-robed cultivator who attacked Bailumen at Daishan was indeed the one who appeared at Pushui, then he had actually met the third protector of Mangjiao long ago, who was the witch protector mentioned by Yin Guangyang.

After all, given that person's cultivation and demeanor, it's impossible for him to submit to someone else.

Aside from the position of leader, perhaps only the position of protector can tolerate the other party in the Mang Sect.

"So it was him who injured Elder Wen back then. No wonder Elder Ma reacted so strongly!"

Upon hearing the story of Pushui, Zheng Yuzhu immediately gritted his teeth in anger.

The attack on Pushui not only left an inner elder of the Bailu Sect bedridden for several years, but also plunged the Bailu Sect into suspicion, ultimately leading to a war with the Cao family of Qingliang Mountain.

Although the two sides managed the conflict well and quickly made peace, the matter still hindered the development of Bailu Sect, causing its influence to remain confined to Pubei.

In retrospect, all of this was a conspiracy, a scheme set up by the Mang Cult against the Bailu Sect!

Li Xiangming never expected that the Mang Sect had such great ambitions. They had just been chased around by the Hengyue Sect and were now trying to destroy the Bailu Sect and stir up trouble in Pu County.

The key point is that no one noticed their intentions.

More than a decade has passed, and the Mang Sect seems to have grown stronger. Li Xiangming couldn't help but feel a chill in his heart.

After a moment's hesitation, Li Xiangming continued, "With the allied forces aiding Dai suffering such heavy losses, is Shengyi Sect now left unattended? Is the Dai Mountain beast tide still besieging Lingyue Peak?"

Zheng Yuzhu shook his head: "Before we were attacked, we carefully cleared out the small-scale beast tides along the route from Puyin Mountain to Lingyue Peak. The scale of the beast tide at Lingyue Peak was reduced, and I expect Shengyi Sect can hold out. Once my Xuanling True Person reacts, he will personally lead the Bailu Sect army to Dai Mountain. At that time, both the beast tides and the remnants of the Mang Sect will be wiped out."

Upon hearing this, Li Xiangming felt somewhat relieved.

The Bailu Sect itself wasn't very strong. If the four major families in southeastern Pu County were to unite, or if the two sects of Dai Mountain were to merge as Master Liaoshen had suggested, then the Bailu Sect would be powerless to do anything about it. This is the fundamental reason why the Bailu Sect didn't directly force the local powerful families to submit, but instead entrenched itself in northern Pu County and slowly developed its power.

However, the Bailu Sect has a trump card: the Suspended Spirit Master.

With his cultivation at the late Golden Core stage, Xuanling Zhenren was more than capable of suppressing Puxian County. As long as he was willing to take action, the beast tide of Puyin Mountain would soon be suppressed, and Monkey Valley would see the light at the end of the tunnel.

The attack on Bailu Sect by the Mang Sect may have been the very opportunity that prompted Master Xuanling to take action.

Just as Li Xiangming was pondering, a crimson streak of light flew in from afar.

"Ji Hu?"

Upon seeing the other party, Li Xiangming couldn't help but ask, "Have the Mingqiao and Jiangyun Divisions arrived?"

"Yes, everyone rushed over without stopping."

Li Xiangming interrupted Li Jihu halfway through his sentence, saying, "Let the main force retreat to Hulu Valley first."

The demon-hunting cultivators aren't members of the Li family. You can just promise them a grand plan to send them into battle. But to make them retreat, you need clear instructions. Otherwise, it could cause panic, and the entire demon-suppressing camp might even scatter in disarray.

"I see."

Although Li Jihu didn't understand why, seeing that Li Xiangming was safe, he didn't ask any more questions and turned to leave.

Li Xiangming glanced at Liu Qingzhou and the others again. These people were injured and their escape speed was very slow.

If the Bone-Melting Demon Cultivator comes after us...
As if to verify his idea, a metallic shriek suddenly came from the distant sky, echoing through the heavens.

Immediately afterwards, a giant eagle with dark gold feathers all over its body and a wingspan of five zhang (approximately 10 meters) swiftly attacked.

"The monsters are coming!"

"It's a Bone-Merging Demon Cultivator!"

"Run!"

The surrounding demon-suppressing cultivators were instantly thrown into panic.

Li Xiangming knew that these people had just been besieged by the beast tide, and they were all exhausted, their combat strength had declined significantly, and more importantly, their morale had been lost. They were now like frightened birds.

If they are allowed to come into contact with the monsters, not only will they fail to achieve anything, but they will also scatter and completely undermine the morale of the army.

Li Xiangming made a decisive move and shouted angrily, "What's the panic? Stabilize the formation and head towards Calabash Valley to rejoin the main force. I'll stay here and hold off this beast!"

Hu Qidao also took the opportunity to shout, "Everyone, both commanders are here. Even if the Bone-Melting Demon Cultivator chases after us, he won't amount to anything. Follow me and continue forward."

Under repeated orders, the cultivators of the Demon Suppression Camp calmed down and began to leave in a straight line.

Li Xiangming then turned to Qingyang Daoist: "Daoist, please protect them for a while."

Qingyang Daoist hesitated for a moment: "I recognize this demon's origins. It is the Golden-feathered Iron-clawed Eagle, also known as the Sky-Splitting Golden Fiend. Even ordinary magic weapons cannot withstand a single claw strike. Its innate supernatural power is to control the golden feathers on its body, like a rain of pear blossoms, leaving nothing but dust within a hundred feet."

Li Xiangming and Li Xiangyu exchanged a glance, surprised that the Qingyang Taoist knew so much about the Golden Feather Iron Claw Eagle.

Li Xiangming immediately reassured him, "Rest assured, Daoist, we are only delaying you for a moment, not trying to outdo you. Once you are far away, I will summon my flying boat to catch up."

Upon hearing this, Qingyang Daoist said no more and turned to leave.

Soon, the Golden-feathered Iron-clawed Eagle arrived, its head adorned with three jet-black feathers, its pupils vertical, and its wings spread like clouds hanging from the sky. Each flap of its wings stirred up a fierce gale, causing the surrounding clouds to churn and waves of air to surge into the sky.

"It's a monster in the early stage of the Bone Fusion realm!"

Li Xiangyu said in a low voice. Li Xiangming also sensed the other party's demonic power and couldn't help but breathe a sigh of relief.

He was afraid of encountering a demon beast of the level of the White Feather Crane Demon.

Seeing that Li Xiangming and Li Xiangyu not only did not avoid him but instead blocked his way, the Golden-feathered Iron Claw Eagle seemed to be provoked. It opened its iron beak and let out a sharp whistling sound like metal scraping.

"Zheng!"

In an instant, the air within a radius of a hundred feet trembled.

Li Xiangming's expression changed slightly, and he retreated several feet rapidly. At the same time, his internal magical power surged, condensing into two cyan light membranes at his ears. Even so, the whistling sound still pierced through his protection like steel needles, making his eardrums ache.

What a powerful sonic attack!

Li Xiangming was secretly alarmed.

Such power would likely cause an ordinary Qi Refining cultivator to bleed from all seven orifices and have their eardrums shattered if they were caught off guard. The Golden-feathered Iron Claw Eagle's abilities seemed to be more formidable than he had imagined.

Seeing that it could not do anything to Li Xiangming, the Golden-feathered Iron Claw Eagle became even angrier, and opened its four iron hook-like claws, pouncing fiercely.

Li Xiangming retreated again, and in the process, he pushed out a palm, causing the magic power of four dragons to surge out and confront it head-on.

"boom!"

The magic exploded with a deafening roar!

With its golden feathers and iron claws protecting it, the golden feathers spread its wings and glared angrily at Li Xiangming, clearly having suffered some hidden loss.

At the same time, Li Xiangyu appeared behind it, his Fire Crow Spear bursting with intense red light. As the spear trembled, hundreds of phantom fire crows shot out from its tip.

Sensing the approaching heatwave, the Golden-feathered Iron-clawed Eagle hurriedly flapped its wings, increasing its speed by a factor of three, narrowly avoiding the Fire Crow. From then on, it soared into the sky and never dared to approach again.

"Pity!"

Seeing that Li Xiangyu's attack missed, Li Xiangming's eyes showed regret.

According to Qingyang Daoist, the Golden Feather Iron Claw Eagle fears fire. If it were hit by Li Xiangyu's Fire Crow Technique, it would be disoriented, and Li Xiangyu's Six Yin Void Divine Finger, which he had been preparing for a long time, would hit it almost 100% of the time.

At that time, the two of them might launch a fierce attack and kill this Bone-Melting Demon Cultivator on the spot.

However, the Golden-feathered Iron Claw Eagle was very alert. After suffering a loss in silence, it immediately became cowardly, chasing but not attacking.

Li Xiangming and his companion weren't without other means, but it was unlikely they could resolve the situation quickly.

"Xiangyu, let's go first."

"Ah."
-
Hulu Valley runs north-south, with its entrance facing north, resembling a giant, reclining pot.

The valley was desolate, with wild grass growing among the jagged rocks, and only the mountain wind howled through it all year round.

Today, this desolate place is filled with noise.

Hundreds of demon-suppressing cultivators shuttled back and forth, some carrying huge boulders weighing thousands of pounds on their shoulders, others dragging logs as thick as a person's embrace, building a simple defensive line at the entrance of the valley.

"Come on, Yong!"

A middle-aged man dressed as a monk waved his hand: "Come over here."

Chi Laiyong quickly stepped forward, cupped his hands, and asked, "Deputy Commander, what do you need me for?"

Master Liaoshen unfolded a rough topographical map, pointed to several points on it, and said, "There are four high points here. Find someone to occupy and guard each one."

Chi Laiyong glanced at the map and said with a wry smile, "We're short-handed right now, where am I supposed to find people?"

"Aren't you the chief?"

Master Liaoshen glared at him.

Chi Laiyong replied helplessly, "You want our Panque Division to guard the valley entrance, but Dean Li wants to transfer us to the valley to purchase a second line of defense. Even the materials for the array to be placed under Master Li need to be provided by the Panque Division. Where are we going to get so many people?"

"The valley entrance is of utmost importance; what role does the second line of defense play?"

Master Liaoshen's expression was rather unpleasant.

Li Qianshi, in command of the Demon Suppression Camp, emphasized a combination of orthodox and unorthodox tactics, and preferred to make contingency plans and leave room for maneuver.

Therefore, the other side felt it was necessary to build a second line of defense to solidify the front line.

In his view, most of the Demon Suppression Battalion members were demon-hunting cultivators, not obedient and indomitable soldiers. If the valley entrance couldn't hold off the beast tide, the morale of the Demon Suppression Battalion would collapse, and defeat would be inevitable.

Are we expecting these people to continue guarding the second line of defense?
almost impossible!
He repeatedly advised Li Qianshi, but to no avail.

After all, his position as deputy commander was nominal. Li Qianshi held no official position as deputy commander, but he exercised the power of a commander. Even Li Xiangming trusted him and was willing to delegate authority to him.

After hesitating for a moment, Master Liaoshen pulled someone out from behind him: "Let Miss Tang go with you. You think of another way. There must be at least one person on each of the four highlands."

Chi Laiyong glanced at Tang Xueyan and asked with some surprise, "Miss Tang, you've come to the front lines too?"

Tang Xueyan hummed in agreement. She wanted Li Xiangming to "repair" Nie Rong, and Li Xiangming agreed. However, she failed to complete the task she was promised because she was traumatized by her inner demons.

Although she later helped Li Xiangming reach the Demon Suppression Camp, the entire mission was completely safe and took only half a day, making it far too easy.

She has always disliked owing favors, especially to scions of noble families like Li Xiangming, whom she considered to be high and mighty.

Following the Demon Suppression Camp northwards this time can be seen as giving myself an explanation.

Seeing that Tang Xueyan didn't say much, Chi Laiyong gave an awkward smile.

Tang Xueyan must have harbored resentment because she had taken Lü Mao's position as regimental commander. However, given her quiet nature, she wouldn't voice her dissatisfaction, and her indifferent attitude spoke volumes.

"Miss Tang, please come with me."

Chi Laiyong was unwilling to explain. Since leaving the Chi family, he had come to understand the complexity of human nature. Sometimes, it was already extremely difficult to maintain a superficial relationship.

After wandering around for a while, the two soon arrived at a hillside in the first half of Calabash Valley.

After a brief look, Chi Laiyong nodded: "This place is densely wooded and quite secluded, offering a commanding view of the valley entrance. If Miss Tang stays here, she can inflict considerable casualties on the demonic beasts, while also ensuring her own safety."

"Thank you very much."

Tang Xueyan replied calmly.

Chi Laiyong paused for a moment, then forced a smile.

Tang Xueyan had guarded Xiaolan Valley for many years, which was of great significance to the then weak Chi family. In any case, he hoped that the Chi family could establish a good relationship with the other party.

"Then Miss Tang will stay here for the time being."

Chi Laiyong said softly, and prepared to leave.

Just then, a faint magical power entered his consciousness from afar.

Chi Laiyong instantly became alert, drew his magical weapon from his waist, and demanded, "Who goes there?"

Soon, a tall, slender figure slowly emerged from the shadows of the forest, his gaze falling on Tang Xueyan's pale face, his Adam's apple bobbing involuntarily.

"Commander Luo?"

Chi Laiyong was greatly surprised and couldn't help but turn around to look at Tang Xueyan.

Tang Xueyan frowned slightly and asked, "What are you doing here?"

Luo Silin stopped in his tracks and after a long while said, "I wanted to come and see you."

(End of this chapter)