A max-level player in Jade Dynasty: Awakening the Innate Dao at the start.

The sword light, imbued with murderous intent, tore through the air and pierced through again in an instant—

A fiery red figure stood firmly in front of Zhang Xiaofan, like the most solid bulwark!

Tian Buyi has made his move!

The moment the Crimson Flame Immortal Sword was drawn, a scorching wave of air exploded out, and the crimson light illuminated half of the solemn and majestic Jade Purity Palace!

The sword's blade seemed to be forged from flowing lava, carrying a scorching power capable of burning away all obstacles.

Without any fancy moves, it swept out, precisely meeting the cold, piercing edge of Cangsong's sword!

"Clang—!!!"

The two swords clashed, unleashing a deafening roar!

The crimson and icy blue lights collided and annihilated violently.

Countless tiny sparks and ice crystals burst forth, like a brief but dazzling shower of strange light within the palace.

Cangsong's wrist, holding the sword, jerked violently, and a look of undisguised astonishment flashed in his eyes.

His sword strike was delivered with rage, and although it wasn't as powerful as his previous sneak attack, it was still not to be underestimated.

Why did Tian Buyi accept it so casually?

What alarmed him even more was the heavy, intense, and domineering recoil force emanating from the sword...

When did Fatty Tian's cultivation level improve to such a level? He even seems to be able to rival me!

How... is this possible?!

Fragments of memories from three hundred years ago uncontrollably surfaced in my mind.

At that time, the most outstanding members of their generation had all been taught by the exceptionally talented senior brother Wan Jianyi.

Cangsong himself is a recognized swordsmanship prodigy with exceptional comprehension and rapid progress. He has even received praise from his senior brother, Wan, for his "clear-minded swordsmanship."

And what about Tian Buyi? Back then, he was just a short, dark-skinned, seemingly honest and even somewhat clumsy fat man.

It takes him more than half a month to barely grasp the essence of even a basic set of Qingyun Sword Techniques.

But now...

Tian Buyi stood with his sword in hand, his broad body like a mountain blocking his disciple's path.

His dark face remained expressionless, but his usually squinting eyes now gleamed with a cold light, sharp as a knife!

He stared intently at the ancient pine tree opposite him, speaking slowly and deliberately, his voice low but like heavy drumbeats, striking the hearts of everyone present:

"Let's see who dares to lay a finger on my apprentice today."

The Crimson Flame Sword emitted a deep hum in his hand, as if echoing its master's determination.

At the tip of the sword, crimson flames flickered erratically, reaching a length of three feet, scorching the surrounding air until it distorted slightly.

Cangsong's face turned from ashen to deathly pale, and his grip on the sword tightened and then loosened.

He loosened and tightened his grip, his fingernails digging deep into his palm, leaving several crescent-shaped blood marks.

He wanted to make another move, to tear apart the obstructing barrier in front of him at all costs.

But Tian Buyi just stood there, his aura deep and powerful, his sword intent solid and concentrated.

It was like an insurmountable volcano, making him feel a long-lost sense of... apprehension.

Force his way in? He really wasn't confident he could gain the upper hand against this fat man's sword, especially in front of his senior brother, the sect leader.

That's enough.

Dao Xuan Zhenren's voice finally came from the head of the sect.

The two words, "plain and simple," seem to contain an invisible power, like the most stable immobilization spell.

Tian Buyi and Cangsong paused almost simultaneously, each sheathing their swords and taking a step back, bowing in the direction of Daoxuan.

However, their gazes met briefly in the air, and the anger and killing intent between them were still like tangible swords clashing silently.

Dao Xuan Zhenren slowly rose to his feet, his black Daoist robe cascading down like water with his movements.

He walked steadily to the center of the hall, his gaze first sweeping over the ancient pine trees, their air thick with the swirling energy of the wind.

The gaze swept past the fiercely protective Tian Buyi, and finally landed on Zhang Xiaofan, who was firmly protected behind Tian Buyi.

He stared at Zhang Xiaofan silently for three breaths before speaking, his voice revealing neither joy nor anger:

"Junior Brother Cangsong, do you insist on interrogating Zhang Xiaofan?"

"Yes!" Cangsong gritted his teeth, suppressing the surging anger in his heart, and replied in a firm tone.

"Senior Brother Sect Leader, please be wise! That fire poker in this boy's hand..."

Its origins are mysterious, and its malevolent aura is overwhelming. It is clearly forged by the evil "blood refining" technique unique to the demonic sect!

Such malevolent and demonic weapons will inevitably affect the mind and character of those who wield them.

Even if they are not spies now, there is no guarantee they won't fall into the evil path in the future!

For the sake of the sect's safety, according to the sect rules,

He should be apprehended immediately, taken to the torture chamber, and thoroughly interrogated about his background and martial arts techniques!

"Interrogation?" Tian Buyi couldn't help but sneer, his voice full of sarcasm.

"Will you take him back to the torture chamber? Will you 'interrogate him carefully,' 'force a confession,' or simply let him 'die unexpectedly'?"

"Cangsong, do you think everyone else is blind?!"

"Junior Brother Tian." Dao Xuan Zhenren slightly turned his head, calmly interrupting Tian Buyi's impending outburst of anger.

Tian Buyi's Adam's apple bobbed, and he swallowed back the even harsher words that followed.

But those eyes still glared angrily at the pine tree, as if they were about to spit fire.

Dao Xuan Zhenren then turned back to the pine tree, his voice still calm, yet carrying an undeniable weight:

"Regarding the origin of Zhang Xiaofan's fire poker, he informed me two years ago that he had accidentally found it in a secluded pool on the back of Dazhu Peak."

Afterwards, I personally went to investigate.

At the bottom of that pool, there were indeed traces of an ancient battlefield, with accumulated malevolent energy.

Its lingering aura, which has persisted for years, does indeed match the malevolent energy contained within the staff. This is one point.

He paused briefly, his gaze deep, and continued slowly:

"Secondly, although this stick has a fierce aura, its aura is contained within the stick and does not spread outward to disturb the mind of the wielder."

Throughout Zhang Xiaofan's time with the staff, he has remained clear-headed and acted with propriety, showing no signs of being corrupted by evil or having his character drastically changed.

If this were truly something the demonic cult had painstakingly used to plant spies, why would it be crafted into this form?

Why not just directly create mind-controlling, easily manipulated evil objects? Wouldn't that achieve the same goal more effectively?

Cangsong, anxious upon hearing this, quickly offered his explanation:

"Sect Leader! Things are unpredictable, and the Demonic Sect is full of cunning schemes."

Perhaps this is precisely where their brilliance lies—deliberately going against the grain to gain people's trust!

This is a matter of utmost importance; it's better to kill the innocent than let the guilty go free! What if…”

"There's no 'what if'." Dao Xuan Zhenren's voice suddenly became stern, cutting off Cang Song's words.

His gaze, sharp as lightning, swept over everyone in the hall, finally settling on Cangsong's face, where he spoke clearly, word by word:

"Our Qingyun Sect considers itself the leader of the righteous path in the world, and we have our own set of rules and bottom lines for doing things."

The principle is: better to let the guilty go free than to kill the innocent!

If one were to harbor murderous intent towards one's disciples based solely on a few doubts or speculations,

They even resorted to sneak attacks in public. How is this fundamentally different from those evil cults and demons who treat human life like dirt and act by any means necessary?!

These words were spoken with extreme seriousness!

Inside the Jade Purity Hall, a deathly silence fell instantly.

Only the three sticks of incense in the incense burner remained, still burning silently.

It emitted an extremely subtle "crackling" sound, and wisps of green smoke rose straight up, as if it too were listening to this discourse concerning the fundamental principles of the sect.

Cangsong opened his mouth, his cheek muscles twitching, as if he wanted to argue some more.

But when he met Dao Xuan's deep, ancient eyes, which seemed to see through everything,

All the words were stuck in his throat, and he couldn't utter a single one.

That gaze contained not only the authority of a sect leader, but also a steadfast adherence to the principles of righteousness.

All his arguments based on "reality" and "interests" seem pale and powerless.

Standing behind Tian Buyi's sturdy and broad back, Zhang Xiaofan listened quietly to Dao Xuan Zhenren's words, secretly praising him in his heart.

This is the demeanor and magnanimity that a leader of the right path should possess.

The ocean embraces all rivers; its vastness lies in its inclusiveness.

He would not become alarmed by the slightest doubt, nor would he harbor suspicion because of his disciple's exceptional talent, nor would he resort to violence because of sectarian bias.

No wonder Dao Xuan was able to break through the legendary Taiqing Realm—

Cultivating the Tao is cultivating the mind. If one's mind is narrow and biased, the path will naturally be rugged and difficult, and one may even fall into demonic obstacles.

Cangsong turned his head away and let out a suppressed snort from his nose.

He was unconvinced, both in his heart and in his words.

But faced with the tone that Dao Xuan had already set, he dared not openly refute it anymore.

The sect leader's authority is unchallenged within the Qingyun Sect, at least not openly.

However, the surging hatred and sense of defeat in his heart were like the most venomous snakes and insects.

It was frantically gnawing at his internal organs, bringing waves of excruciating pain.

He missed his chance.

That was an excellent, almost perfect opportunity for a sneak attack!

That sword strike should have been three times faster! Three times more ruthless! Three times more merciless!

Before the kid could even react, the bullet pierced his heart!

Even if he had to endure Tian Buyi's furious retaliation afterward, face Dao Xuan's severe punishment, and even be stripped of his position as head disciple...

As long as we can completely eliminate this major threat, it will all be worth it!

But what about now? Tian Buyi, that fatso, is standing in front of us like a wall, and Dao Xuan's attitude is clearly biased towards protecting him.

Finding another opportunity to carry out a murder so openly and legitimately is as difficult as climbing to heaven!

What sent chills down Cangsong's spine even further was that the talent Zhang Xiaofan displayed was simply too astonishing.

Five years, starting from scratch, straight to the Shangqing Realm!

The Qingyun Sect has been established for thousands of years. Apart from the legendary founder, Master Qingye, who else could achieve this?

Unique!

Even Lu Xueqi, who is now hailed as a once-in-a-century genius, only took two years to advance from the fourth level of the Jade Purity Realm to the peak of the ninth level.

It was already astonishing enough, but compared to Zhang Xiaofan's terrifying leap, it was simply insignificant and pale in comparison.

What's even more terrifying is not just the rapid rise in cultivation level, but also that monstrous comprehension!

Divine Sword Thunder Control Technique, Slaying Ghosts and Gods... Which of these top-tier, treasured techniques of the Qingyun Sect doesn't require years of arduous cultivation and comprehension?

But this kid seems to grasp the essence at a glance, and when he uses it, it's so fluid, natural, and incredibly powerful.

He is even more skilled and experienced than many elders who have been immersed in it for decades!

Cangsong suddenly felt a chill run from the soles of his feet straight to the top of his head.

This wasn't the chill of the hall, but rather a primal fear stemming from the depths of the soul—the most instinctive fear of unknown threats.

He was afraid.

He feared that in a few decades, or even just a dozen years, Zhang Xiaofan's cultivation would soar like a flying sword, completely surpassing him!

He feared that if Tian Buyi and Zhang Xiaofan joined forces, there would be no place for Cangsong in the entire Qingyun Sect!

He was even more afraid that his "grand plan," which he had been secretly working on for a century, would completely collapse because of this variable!

He must be eliminated!

At all costs, using every available means,

He must be uprooted and reduced to ashes before he truly grows into a towering tree!

The pine tree's eyes grew increasingly gloomy and deep, like the darkest clouds before a storm.

The outline of the crazy and grand plan that had been dormant in his heart for many years became clearer than ever before, and his determination became firmer than ever before.

Zhang Xiaofan must die! This is no longer just a personal grudge; it concerns his future survival and his grand ambitions!

Dao Xuan Zhenren's gaze no longer lingered on the gloomy pine tree.

He turned to look at Zhang Xiaofan, his gaze becoming complicated.

There was concern, appreciation, and relief that the sect had successors, but also a hint of indescribable... regret.

If I had known earlier that this child was so exceptionally talented, I should have taken him under my wing, personally taught him, and passed on my mantle.

Unfortunately, what's done is done, and saying anything more is futile.

"Zhang Xiaofan," Dao Xuan said, his voice returning to its usual gentle tone.

"Disciple is here." Zhang Xiaofan stepped forward and bowed in response.

"Now that you have broken through to the Upper Clarity Realm and your cultivation foundation is solid, there is little point in you continuing to stay in the mountains for secluded cultivation."

Dao Xuan Zhenren spoke slowly, his tone carrying the expectations and arrangements of an elder for an outstanding younger generation.

"Recently, there have been secret reports from various places that the Demonic Cult, which has been lying dormant for many years, seems to be making a comeback."

The world may be in turmoil, and this is the time for young disciples to descend the mountain to hone their skills and broaden their horizons.

You shall then descend the mountain to gain experience along with the other three equally outstanding disciples.

Zhang Xiaofan bowed deeply again: "This disciple will obey the sect leader's orders."

"Remember," Dao Xuan said, looking at him with an unusually solemn tone, like a true teacher instructing a child about to embark on a long journey.

"This trip down the mountain is primarily for travel to broaden my horizons and temper my character, with my own safety being my top priority."

When faced with a situation, one should remain calm, act within one's capabilities, and never act impulsively or recklessly.

If faced with an insurmountable crisis, or if clues to a major conspiracy are discovered,

Be sure to withdraw promptly and return to the mountain to report. The sect will always be your support.

"Yes, disciple will remember it." Zhang Xiaofan replied respectfully, his tone sincere.

He lowered his head, feeling a deep respect for the Qingyun Sect Leader.

He was magnanimous, highly accomplished, impartial, and dedicated to the prosperity of his sect.

If it weren't for the series of unexpected events in the original story—

He was ambushed and severely injured by his most trusted junior brother, Cangsong, with the "Seven-Tailed Centipede," and his mind was further corrupted by the ferocious backlash of the Zhuxian Ancient Sword...

Dao Xuan Zhenren would probably never go that far.

Unfortunately, life is unpredictable, and fate can be cruel.

Zhang Xiaofan composed himself and bowed once again to Dao Xuan and the other heads of the hall.

As they were taking their leave, Zhang Xiaofan followed Tian Buyi toward the palace gate.

Just as he was about to step over the high threshold, he suddenly seemed to remember something, stopped, and turned back.

His gaze passed over Tian Buyi's shoulder and landed precisely on Cangsong, who was still sitting in the same spot with an unpredictable expression.

Then, Zhang Xiaofan smiled.

That smile was exceptionally bright, like a ray of sunlight piercing through the solemn atmosphere of the Jade Purity Hall.

But his eyes were icy cold, devoid of any warmth, like unyielding ice.

"You treacherous dog, Cangsong!"

He moved his lips slightly, uttering six words clearly and slowly, making sure everyone in the hall could hear him clearly.

"We'll meet again."

"you--!!!"

Like a powder keg that had been ignited, Cangsong suddenly sprang up from his seat, his sword flashing as it was drawn three inches from its sheath once more!

His face was contorted with rage, and his chest heaved violently.

His face instantly turned a horrible liver color, as if he were about to pounce on them without a care in the world!

"Junior Brother Cangsong." Dao Xuan Zhenren's calm voice rang out at the opportune moment, carrying a hint of barely perceptible authority.

"A man over three hundred years old, cultivating his Taoist nature, why is he still so serious and agitated with a teenager?"

"But him—!" Cangsong pointed at Zhang Xiaofan, his finger trembling.

"He is clear about his gratitude and grudges, and he will definitely avenge any wrongs he has done; he is quite frank."

Dao Xuan interrupted him, giving Cangsong a deep look, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"If you hadn't first harbored murderous intent towards him and acted ruthlessly, he wouldn't have treated you this way."

This matter ends here; let it not be mentioned again.

Cangsong gritted his teeth, glaring at Zhang Xiaofan's retreating figure before glancing at Daoxuan's unyielding expression.

In the end, he could only swallow the anger that was about to burst his chest and slump back into his chair.

"Snap!"

The armrest of the hard ironwood chair beneath him was actually cracked by the force he unconsciously unleashed, leaving a clear crack.

Zhang Xiaofan then turned around with satisfaction and stepped lightly out of the Jade Purity Palace.

Outside the hall, the sun was shining brightly.

As Zhang Xiaofan crossed the Rainbow Bridge, he stopped again.

The water in Bishuitan is calm and smooth as a mirror, perfectly reflecting the blue sky and white clouds overhead, creating a tranquil and peaceful scene.

Zhang Xiaofan strolled over to the edge of the pool, bent down, and looked at the clear water.

Then, without warning, he lowered his head and spat out a mouthful of saliva onto the water's surface.

The saliva fell into the water, creating tiny ripples that broke the stillness of the pool.

At the deepest part of the pool, the water unicorn, which was resting with its eyes closed and trying to forget yesterday's humiliation, suddenly opened its huge, bell-like eyes.

Through the rippling water, it clearly saw the black-clad figure on the shore that it hated so much.

I saw that hateful smiling face and that childish, provocative gesture.

Zhang Xiaofan simply squatted down, stretched out his right hand, and gently pressed his palm against the surface of the cool pool water.

He channeled a wisp of spiritual energy; his voice was soft, yet it traveled clearly to the depths of the pool, like sound carried on ripples in water.

"You old bastard, listen up!"

Live well, and wait for me for ten years.

Ten years later, when I return to the mountain, the first thing I'll do is cut off your "whip" and use it to make a jar of the finest wine! I mean what I say!

Beneath the pool, the water unicorn's massive body visibly stiffened for a moment: "..."

It suddenly rose from the bottom of the pool, its huge head breaking through the water with a "splash," creating a large splash.

Those huge eyes, filled with majesty and anger, glared fiercely at the reckless brat on the shore, two thick wisps of white breath escaping from their nostrils.

However, after the two stared at each other for several breaths, the anger in the water unicorn's eyes was gradually replaced by an extremely human emotion that was mixed with frustration and helplessness.

Never mind... never mind!

Why bother getting angry with this brat? No matter how monstrous his talent is, he's still just a human!

Human lifespan is at most a few hundred years!

As for me, I am a divine beast of heaven and earth, with an endless lifespan!

I'll hide at the bottom of the pool and sleep for a hundred or two hundred years!

When you're old and your vitality has waned...

Even when I turn into a handful of dust, I can come out and leisurely bask in the sun. Wouldn't that be wonderful?

Why bother with something that's destined to die young? It's not worth it! Absolutely not worth it!

Having made up his mind on this "long-term strategy," the Water Kirin glared fiercely at Zhang Xiaofan one last time, as if he wanted to memorize that hateful face deep into his soul.

Then, it let out a deep, muffled growl, filled with disdain.

Its head sank, and with a "plop," it disappeared back into the emerald green pool.

It quickly dived down, heading straight for the darkest and quietest corner at the bottom of the pool.

It's going into seclusion—no, it's going to "close the pond"! Out of sight, out of mind!

Seeing this, Zhang Xiaofan laughed and patted his hands to remove non-existent water stains.

Satisfied, he stood up and strolled leisurely toward the large square in front of Tongtian Peak.

From afar, he could see three figures waiting at the edge of the square.

One of them, dressed in a moon-white Taoist robe, exuding a cool and otherworldly aura, carrying a sword box on his back, was none other than Lu Xueqi from Xiaozhu Peak.

One of them, dressed in a blue robe and carrying a folding fan, with his signature clever smile on his face, was Zeng Shushu from Feng Huifeng.

There's another one... um?

Zhang Xiaofan raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes.

The third figure, dressed in a green robe, was tall and handsome, though his face still showed signs of paleness from recovering from serious injuries—it was Qi Hao from Dragon Head Peak.

This guy had several broken ribs, right? How come he's already jumping around down the mountain like a madman after only a few days?

Are the healing pills from Dragon Head Peak really that effective? Or is it...?

This "senior brother" didn't even bother to heal his injuries for some purpose?

Zhang Xiaofan's lips curled up slightly, forming a playful arc.

To go down the mountain for training?

Is there an "old nemesis" in the team who's always looking for revenge?

There's also the icy-cold Junior Sister Lu and the lively and lovable Zeng Shushu.

This is going to be interesting.

He straightened his robes, took a step, and walked slowly toward the three people who were waiting for him.

A mountain breeze blows, carrying the scent of distant wilderness; a new chapter is about to unfold outside Qingyun Mountain.