The Ultimate Battle Soul Warlord: An Isekai Progression Fantasy: The Ultimate Battle Soul Warlord, #2

By Yi Feng and He Qiao Qiao

The street thug Bai Yu has a chance encounter with a charlatan old monk and accidentally learns an ancient and mystical skill from the divine realm known as the "Great Vow Heart Sutra," which focuses on cultivating the soul. 

It seems as if fate has its own plans, as Bai Yu finds himself transported to the Shenzhou Continent, where cultivation is mainstream, becoming a bona fide useless young master. However, after discovering the existence of a unique type of soul called "War Soul" on the Shenzhou Continent, Bai Yu, who possesses this unparalleled mystical skill for cultivating the soul, embarks on a fierce journey in this different world. Watch how the once-useless Bai Yu navigates this new world, turns the tide, collects the strongest War Souls, and uses martial prowess to break through the heavens above!
 

 

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While Li Bubai and Li Chengtian were conversing, the curtain of the commanding tent was lifted, and Feng Xuri led the way into Li Bubai's tent. Following behind Feng Xuri, Xu Lao San and six others entered in single file, quickly filling the spacious tent to the brim. Suddenly, Li Bubai's aura intensified astonishingly, as if it was an effortless display of his inherent dominance. Under the pressure of Li Bubai's commanding presence, the people from Piaomiao Peak immediately felt a sense of discomfort.

• Language: English
• Publisher: He Qiao Qiao
• Release date: Apr 27, 2024
• ISBN: 9798224670758

Book preview

Chapter 90: Ten Years Ago (Part 2)

While Li Bubai and Li Chengtian were conversing, the curtain of the commanding tent was lifted, and Feng Xuri led the way into Li Bubai’s tent. Following behind Feng Xuri, Xu Lao San and six others entered in single file, quickly filling the spacious tent to the brim. Suddenly, Li Bubai’s aura intensified astonishingly, as if it was an effortless display of his inherent dominance. Under the pressure of Li Bubai’s commanding presence, the people from Piaomiao Peak immediately felt a sense of discomfort.

Feng Xuri, the young master of Piaomiao Peak, showed his mettle by not losing any ground in terms of aura, even in the face of a master like Li Bubai. Following a hearty laugh, he stepped forward and gave Li Bubai a slight bow, then loudly exclaimed, It’s been ten years, Senior Li. You’re as impressive as ever!

Feng Xuri’s greeting to Li Bubai might have seemed simple, but he subtly infused his words with Xuan Power, quietly extricating Xu Lao San and the others from the pressure of Li Bubai’s aura.

Indeed! In the blink of an eye, it’s been ten years. Likewise, Xuri, you’ve matured a lot over the years and made significant strides in your strength. It seems Master Feng Han has a worthy successor! Li Bubai expressed with a hint of nostalgia: Friends from Piaomiao Peak, please take a seat. Make yourselves comfortable!

As he spoke, Li Bubai withdrew his oppressive aura, because everything Feng Xuri had demonstrated up until that point contained no malice. On the contrary, there was a notion of willingly lowering his status. From the initial announcement of their arrival, to facing Li Bubai’s oppressive aura without outwardly reacting, only quietly resolving it, and finally, initiating a conversation with Li Bubai about old times, everything indicated that Feng Xuri’s visit bore no ill intent.

However, at Li Bubai’s invitation, Feng Xuri and the others sat down to Li Bubai’s left and right. After everyone was seated, Li Bubai continued, Ten years ago, your father, Master Feng Han, and I engaged in a fierce battle at the foot of Tianshan over a certain person. Although the outcome was a draw, I failed to protect that person...

Speaking of which, Li Bubai’s expression suddenly dimmed. It seemed that failing to protect that person ten years ago had become a lingering regret for Li Bubai. But who exactly was that person?

Senior Li, the younger generation was also present at that battle ten years ago. Although Senior Li and my father ended up evenly matched, the true victor was Helian Zhantian of the Yuan Meng Empire, was he not? Feng Xuri didn’t pursue the topic of that person with Li Bubai and instead shifted the conversation to the Yuan Meng Empire and Helian Zhantian.

That’s right, Helian Zhantian was the ultimate victor! A piercing glint suddenly flashed in Li Bubai’s eyes. Back then, for some reason, Master Feng Han intervened to stop the decisive battle between me and that Helian Old Man. And to my surprise, my opponent in the end turned out to be Master Feng Han, while Helian Zhantian took the opportunity to end ‘that person’s’ life...

Senior Li, let’s not dwell on the past from ten years ago! Feng Xuri suddenly interrupted Li Bubai. Back then, my father was deceived by Helian Zhantian. Today, the younger generation apologizes to Senior Li on behalf of my father. As for ‘that person’s’ death, it’s been ten years. Senior Li should let it go!

To think that the esteemed young master of Piaomiao Peak would take the initiative to apologize to Li Bubai, and on behalf of the master of Piaomiao Peak, Feng Han, one of the strongest cultivators in the Divine Land today. This truly gave Li Bubai plenty of face! Li Bubai might be a Purple Grade top-tier expert, but that only represented his individual strength. Compared to Piaomiao Peak, the strength of the entire Great Tang Empire seemed insignificant. Generally speaking, the Great Tang Empire was inferior to Piaomiao Peak in every aspect. Feng Xuri’s presence before Li Bubai with such humility greatly exceeded Li Bubai’s expectations!

Indeed, it’s been ten years. It’s time to let go! A hint of a enigmatic smile suddenly appeared on Li Bubai’s lips. Although ‘that person’ died at Helian Zhantian’s hands, only ‘they’ would have the strength to force Master Feng Han and Helian Zhantian to join forces against me to take ‘that person’s’ life!

Senior Li, there are many things that we truly needn’t mention again, especially those related to ‘them,’ isn’t that so? Feng Xuri took a deep look at Li Bubai, and his words clearly carried hidden implications!

Who exactly was that person? Who were they? What had happened ten years ago?

Indeed, there’s no need to mention it again. ‘That person’ exchanged their life for the stability of the Great Tang Empire, or rather, ‘that person’ used their own life to atone for the sins they had committed... Li Bubai seemed lost in thought.

Suddenly, the entire commanding tent fell deathly silent. The atmosphere was stifling, weighing heavily on everyone’s hearts. That person and they, whom Feng Xuri and Li Bubai had mentioned, seemed to be mysteries to everyone present except Li Bubai and Feng Xuri. No one else knew what exactly had happened at the foot of Tianshan ten years ago, let alone the secrets hidden within!

After a long while, just when everyone was preoccupied with the riddles posed by Li Bubai and Feng Xuri, Li Bubai suddenly spoke up, Feng Xuri, why exactly has Piaomiao Peak come looking for me this time?

Here it comes, the real meat of the story!

Senior Li, I believe you must have heard of Heavenly Lord Zhang Jiao, who raised an army against the Great Han Dynasty nine hundred years ago and roamed the Divine Land? Feng Xuri asked.

I wouldn’t say I know him, but I have heard of him indeed, Li Bubai replied. Rumor has it that this Heavenly Lord Zhang Jiao possessed an ancient and enigmatic book called the Taiping Qingling, as well as the Heavenly Silkworm Treasure Armor that rendered him invulnerable to blades, spears, water, and fire. It was especially that Taiping Qingling that gave Heavenly Lord Zhang Jiao the capital to vie for supremacy over the continent. What about it?

Feng Xuri suddenly lowered his voice and said to Li Bubai, I can assure you, Senior Li, that the reason the Yuan Meng Empire has launched a full-scale invasion of the Great Tang Empire is precisely to obtain those two treasures, the Taiping Qingling and the Heavenly Silkworm Treasure Armor. Because in Tianshan, Helian Zhantian discovered the tomb of Heavenly Lord Zhang Jiao!

What!? Upon hearing Feng Xuri’s earth-shattering revelation, Li Bubai immediately stood up, a look of sudden realization on his face. No wonder the Yuan Meng Empire was able to repel Ning Jiuxiao’s army so easily. So Helian Zhantian really is in the Yuan Meng Empire’s army. And no wonder the Yuan Meng Empire didn’t attack Yumen Pass as they usually do but instead garrisoned at the Tianshan Mountain Range. It turns out that that old villain Helian has discovered the tomb of Heavenly Lord Zhang Jiao. He must be planning to get his hands on the Taiping Qingling and the Heavenly Silkworm Treasure Armor!

That’s right! Feng Xuri immediately continued Li Bubai’s train of thought. Our Piaomiao Peak came to Tianshan this time precisely for the Taiping Qingling. I don’t know, Senior Li, if you would be willing to lend us a hand. Together, we can defeat Helian Zhantian and seize those two treasures.

Oh? Such a treasure as the Taiping Qingling has appeared, and yet Brother Feng Han hasn’t personally come this time? Li Bubai didn’t answer Feng Xuri’s question but instead asked, Could it be that Brother Feng Han doesn’t care about this Taiping Qingling?

The Taiping Qingling was a paramount treasure of the Divine Land. Back then, even the powerful Four Great Families would send their experts to kill Zhang Jiao for the Taiping Qingling. What they sought was nothing but that peerless book. Since even the Four Great Families would be tempted, there was no reason for Feng Han to resist the allure of the Taiping Qingling. However, the fact that Feng Han hadn’t personally come to seize this extraordinary book, the Taiping Qingling, had indeed surprised Li Bubai!

No, my father has long coveted this Taiping Qingling, but... Feng Xuri suddenly smiled mysteriously. My father is currently in seclusion and at a critical juncture in his attempt to break through to another realm. He’s unable to spare any energy, so he sent me to Tianshan. But my strength alone is no match for Helian Zhantian... I hope Senior Li will lend us a helping hand. As long as Piaomiao Peak can obtain that peerless book, the Heavenly Silkworm Treasure Armor will belong to Senior Li. Moreover, Piaomiao Peak will ensure that the Great Tang Empire doesn’t decline for five hundred years!

Feng Xuri laid out his terms for cooperation. It had to be said that Feng Xuri’s bargaining chips were truly valuable: he offered the Heavenly Silkworm Treasure Armor to Li Bubai, and then, with Piaomiao Peak as backing, he promised that the Great Tang Empire wouldn’t decline for five hundred years... Li Bubai was truly tempted!

The Taiping Qingling was precious indeed, but Li Bubai wasn’t as impulsive as Helian Zhantian. The Great Tang Empire had only been founded for a little over a hundred years, and its internal affairs weren’t yet stable. Externally, there were the powerful Yuan Meng in the north, the Western Region countries in the west, and the Southern Border’s Hundred Thousand Mountains coveting the Central Plains. If the Great Tang Empire were to lose Li Bubai, it would immediately fall into the dangerous situation of being attacked from all sides. If Piaomiao Peak could guarantee that the Great Tang Empire wouldn’t decline for five hundred years, it would truly put Li Bubai’s mind at ease. With Piaomiao Peak’s power and foundation, as long as they were willing, neither Yuan Meng, the Western Region, nor the Southern Border would be able to encroach on the Central Plains that belonged to the Great Tang Empire. And Li Bubai had no reason to doubt this promise. As another superpower that had existed for thousands of years, the name Piaomiao Peak was the best guarantee!

Of course, these were just the superficial bargaining chips. The real trump card was Piaomiao Peak’s master, Feng Han! Don’t forget, Feng Xuri had just uttered a sentence that had shocked Li Bubai: Feng Han was attempting to break through to another realm and was unable to spare any energy!

One had to wonder, if even a treasure like the Taiping Qingling couldn’t draw Feng Han out of Piaomiao Peak, then what Feng Han was doing must be even more important than the Taiping Qingling. And that phrase, another realm, had thoroughly revealed why Feng Han hadn’t appeared in the Divine Land to personally seize the Taiping Qingling: because... Feng Han was attempting to break through to the realm of the Black-level Martial Emperor, or as Feng Xuri had called it, another realm!

Chapter 91: Welcome to the Fray

While shocked by how quickly Feng Han’s cultivation had advanced, Li Bubai also believed Feng Xuri’s words. If he had been in Feng Han’s shoes, breaking through to the Black-level Martial Emperor realm would have been more important than seizing the Taiping Qingling. After all, by that time, there probably wouldn’t be many people in the Divine Land who could stop Feng Han from taking the Taiping Qingling.

If it weren’t for the fact that Feng Han couldn’t spare any energy and Helian Zhantian wanted to seize the Taiping Qingling and the Heavenly Silkworm Treasure Armor for himself, Feng Xuri wouldn’t have come to Li Bubai for cooperation. As for this cooperation... would Li Bubai refuse such a transaction? The answer was naturally—no!

However, in hindsight, it was truly the work of fate. Ten years ago, Piaomiao Peak and the Yuan Meng Empire had joined forces to oppose the Great Tang Empire. Although this was a secret known to very few people, Li Bubai happened to be one of the participants at that time. And ten years later? The alliance between the Yuan Meng Empire and Piaomiao Peak had broken down, and now, Piaomiao Peak had become partners with the Great Tang Empire. It was truly the will of heaven!

In any case, the battle at Tianshan was about to become even more interesting!

Good! Since Piaomiao Peak has come with sincerity, then I, Li, can’t refuse. From now on, the Great Tang Empire and Piaomiao Peak are allies. In the matter of Tianshan, the forces of the Great Tang Empire will definitely cooperate fully with Piaomiao Peak’s seizure of the Taiping Qingling! Li Bubai immediately made the decision to ally.

Hearing Li Bubai’s affirmative answer, Feng Xuri immediately laughed and said, Senior Li is indeed straightforward! Good! Since Senior Li has formed an alliance with my Piaomiao Peak, then we are our own people!

Apart from the Yuan Meng Empire and Piaomiao Peak, which other forces know about the existence of Zhang Jiao’s tomb? Li Bubai asked with a solemn expression.

The Temple of Bliss has already sent out the Eighteen Arhats, and they should be arriving at Tianshan soon. Aside from this powerful enemy, the Song family of the Southern Border and the Western Region Monsters have probably also received the news. I believe Tianshan will become even more lively!

The Song family of the Southern Border, the Western Region Monsters... Li Bubai silently recited these two forces, and a bitter expression couldn’t help but appear on his face. It seemed that the Song family of the Southern Border and the Western Region Monsters were forces that couldn’t be underestimated. Suddenly, Li Bubai spoke nonchalantly, Will ‘they’ appear?

Seeming to have heard Li Bubai’s concerns about the Song family, the Western Region Monsters, and them, Feng Xuri immediately said, Senior Li, rest assured. ‘They’ haven’t made any statements this time, and they most likely won’t appear. As for the Western Region Monsters... the King of Ten Thousand Monsters, Yue Linglong, has been missing for over a hundred years and has faded out of the Divine Land. And the four Monster Kings under Yue Linglong have been fighting each other for the past hundred years, greatly damaging their vitality. Moreover, this time, the target is at the border of the Great Tang Empire and the Yuan Meng Empire. I believe they won’t dispatch many demons and monsters. As for the Song family... three hundred years ago, when the Heavenly Saber fell, the Song family went into decline. And in recent years, I haven’t heard of anyone in the Song family possessing strength that can rival Senior Li’s...

As he spoke, Feng Xuri slowly stood up and cupped his hands to Li Bubai. We’ll go to Tianshan first to scout out Helian Zhantian’s strength. We hope Senior Li will lead the army to Tianshan as soon as possible!

That’s only natural! Li Bubai agreed.

After that, Feng Xuri led Xu Lao San and the others out of Li Bubai’s tent. But before he left, Feng Xuri suddenly asked Li Bubai, I wonder how ‘that person’s’ child is doing now?

Haha... As soon as that person’s child was mentioned, Li Bubai suddenly burst into laughter. You should have seen him when you came... that sword was quite impressive. That child is very mysterious!

Hearing Li Bubai’s answer, Feng Xuri suddenly understood and muttered to himself, So it was him... that sword strike was truly profound, although his strength is somewhat low...

After saying that, Feng Xuri led the other six people and turned to leave Li Bubai’s tent.

Watching Feng Xuri’s disappearing figure, Li Bubai also said thoughtfully, One sword strike that rivals the brilliance of the moon, the four great families that can reach the heavens... I wonder how many hidden figures will appear in the Divine Land during this battle at Tianshan?

Li Bubai and Feng Xuri’s secret plot had come to an end. Now, let’s turn our attention to Brother Yu near the gate of the Great Tang Empire’s camp, who had just utterly defeated Chen Qirui...

The once-grand gate had been completely destroyed by Bai Yu. The ground within a dozen meters of the gate had become ruins, and the culprit, Bai Yu, stood leisurely behind the White Clothes Blood Guard’s formation as if nothing had happened. Facing the fury of the Chen family’s army not far away, Brother Yu seemed to have completely ignored them!

And just then, Feng Yizhi, who hadn’t followed Feng Xuri into Li Bubai’s tent, suddenly appeared right in the middle of the White Feather Legion and the Chen family’s army. At the same time, almost everyone’s gaze fell on Feng Yizhi!

Everyone already knew Feng Yizhi’s identity. He was the grandson of Feng Han, one of the most powerful people in the Divine Land today, the current leader of Piaomiao Peak, and the second son of Feng Xuri, the head of Piaomiao Peak. Any one of these halos was enough for Feng Yizhi to dominate the Divine Land. If these halos were stacked together... well, this Feng Yizhi was truly a super second-generation heir with an extremely powerful background!

If Feng Yizhi hadn’t run into Bai Yu, who had a grudge against Piaomiao Peak, or rather, if Brother Yu could have been more rational and not so impulsive, then Feng Yizhi’s title as the second son of Piaomiao Peak would still have crushed Bai Yu. Unfortunately, Brother Yu wasn’t a good boy, so in the end, Feng Yizhi had fallen at Brother Yu’s hands!

Of course, not everyone possesses the fearless spirit of Bai Yu, at least among the noble families of the Great Tang Empire currently in front of Feng Yizhi, none has Brother Yu’s courage and boldness!

Naturally, the appearance of Feng Yizhi, a man of no ordinary status, in the middle of the battlefield between Bai Yu’s legion and the Chen family’s army, also effectively prevented a chaos about to erupt. After all, with Feng Yizhi’s status, who would dare to start a fight? Involving Feng Yizhi in the melee would be unthinkable.

Gentlemen, although I am not a man of the Great Tang Empire, I understand the principle of unity among comrades. I believe the commander of the Great Tang Empire would not wish for a conflict to erupt between you two, right? Feng Yizhi spoke in an even tone, but his gaze was fixed on the Chen family’s army, as if his words were directed specifically at them!

Feng Yizhi stood with the air of someone at the pinnacle of power, although he was mediating between the Chen family’s army and Bai Yu’s legion, his tone was more like issuing an order, with the Chen family being the recipients of these orders.

Feng Yizhi’s peculiar behavior immediately caught everyone’s attention. As the saying goes, it takes two hands to clap. If the Chen and Bai families really started fighting, it wouldn’t be entirely the Chen family’s fault; the Bai family would also share half the responsibility. Yet, Feng Yizhi seemed to be blatantly siding with the Bai family. Why was that? There was no known relationship between the Bai family and Piaomiao Peak. If there really was a connection between the Bai family and Piaomiao Peak, how could Bai Wuji currently be just a third-grade general?

Unconsciously, some of the more astute observers, like Ling Feiyun and Zhao Donghai, began to notice a series of intriguing matters arising from this situation.

However, probably only the White Clothes Blood Guard truly understood the subtlety of the situation. Not long ago, this group of guards had even taken the second young master of Piaomiao Peak hostage, and it seemed that this Second Young Master Feng had reached some kind of agreement with their Young Master Yu? From a certain perspective, could he be considered one of their own now?

At this moment, each and every one of the White Clothes Blood Guard and Bai Yong wore strange smiles on their faces, looking at the Chen family’s formation opposite them as if watching a good show. Back in the Chen family’s formation, Chen Tao and Chen Hai exchanged glances upon hearing Feng Yizhi’s words. Although they could see the anger in each other’s eyes, they couldn’t afford to lose face in front of Feng Yizhi. Finally, after a brief exchange of looks, Chen Tao and Chen Hai made a decision at the same time: retreat!

Chen Tao and Chen Hai’s decision was the most sensible one. Even though they were currently in the Great Tang Empire’s military camp, and even though they were standing on the soil of the Great Tang Empire, just what was Piaomiao Peak? It was an evergreen tree that had stood tall and firm in the Divine Land for thousands of years. Chen Tao and Chen Hai had no idea just how powerful Piaomiao Peak had become after thousands of years of accumulation and refinement, but there was one thing they were certain of: Feng Yizhi was someone they couldn’t afford to offend, and Piaomiao Peak was someone they could even less afford to offend!

Retreat was the only choice left for the Chen family’s army. Although they were unwilling, they had no other option.

This matter won’t end here! Chen Tao growled fiercely. With Feng Yizhi forcefully intervening, the Chen family had yielded, but the Chen family couldn’t possibly lose face on top of losing the battle. If they didn’t even leave behind a harsh word, then the Chen family would be announcing to all the families in the Imperial Capital City that they were afraid of the Bai family. Naturally, Chen Tao would never allow such a thing to happen!

After saying that, Chen Tao’s sharp gaze seemed to pierce through everyone’s bodies, finding Bai Yu at the very back of the Bai family’s formation. If looks could kill, then Brother Yu would have probably been killed dozens of times by Chen Tao by now!

Alright then! Bai Yu raised his arms, pushing aside the group of White Clothes Blood Guard blocking him, and still using those infuriating overlord strides, Bai Yu slowly walked to the front of the White Clothes Blood Guard’s formation. Pointing at Chen Tao, Chen Hai, and the countless soldiers of the Chen family’s army, he loudly mocked, Rest assured, I’m not running anywhere, and you’re welcome to come after me!

Hahaha...

With a burst of unrestrained laughter, Bai Yu turned around and slowly walked back into the White Clothes Blood Guard’s formation.

Chapter 92: I Don’t Rely on My Looks

Welcome them to come after him? It was obvious that Bai Yu didn’t take the Chen family seriously at all! He had dismissed Chen Tao and Chen Hai’s threats like they were nothing. Naturally, Bai Yu’s arrogant attitude had provoked dissatisfaction and anger from the Chen family, as well as shock and amazement from the other families.

Be it known that the Chen family was one of the most powerful families in the Great Tang Empire, second only to the formidable Ling family. And the Bai family? They could only be considered a second-rate family in the Great Tang Empire. And yet, now, a useless heir from a second-rate family was audaciously claiming that he wasn’t afraid of the Chen family, and his actions and words had completely humiliated the Chen family, one of the highest-ranking noble families. This had caused relations between the Bai and Chen families to sink to their lowest point in history. As for Bai Yu’s words and actions... well, how could the Chen family possibly accept them? And how could the other noble families not be shocked?

Involuntarily, everyone’s gazes turned to Bai Yu, and a strange look flashed in almost everyone’s eyes.

In the past month, Bai Yu had consecutively challenged the three great families of the Ling family, the Liu family, and the Chen family. It could be said that he had offended all the powerful and influential figures in the Great Tang Empire’s political party. But Bai Yu’s forceful rise also silently announced one thing to everyone: he had completely transformed!

Even Ling Feiyun’s usually calm eyes flashed with a hint of surprise. He had witnessed Bai Yu’s changes and growth over the past month, but he had never been able to figure out why Bai Yu had changed and grown so much. Now, Ling Feiyun seemed to have a clue... That’s right, because of Feng Yizhi’s sudden appearance, the mystery that had puzzled Ling Feiyun for so long had finally found a breakthrough: Piaomiao Peak!

In Ling Feiyun’s eyes, a large part of the reason why Bai Yu was able to be so domineering, and even fearless of the three great families of the Ling family, the Liu family, and the Chen family, must have come from Piaomiao Peak. Although Ling Feiyun didn’t want to admit it, he had to: Bai Yu most likely had some kind of connection to the legendary powerful force, Piaomiao Peak, just like how Feng Yizhi had clearly shown favoritism towards the Bai family just now.

At this thought, Ling Feiyun couldn’t help but fix his gaze on Feng Yizhi, while not far from him, Zhao Donghai was doing the same. It seemed these two proud sons of heaven had already made their judgment: Bai Yu must have some connection with Piaomiao Peak. However, Zhao Donghai was contemplating how to win Bai Yu over, while Ling Feiyun was secretly considering how to eliminate Bai Yu without leaving any traces that could provoke retaliation from Piaomiao Peak. After all, the talents and courage Bai Yu had shown were already causing Ling Feiyun to feel wary.

In fact, the thoughts of Ling Feiyun and Zhao Donghai could be considered normal, because not only would they think that Bai Yu was related to Piaomiao Peak, but anyone with a bit of sense would think the same. Apart from Piaomiao Peak, no one could find the root of how Bai Yu had transformed so drastically within a month. No one would have thought that Bai Yu could possess two or more War Souls, each of which belonged to individuals who had once made a name for themselves.

On the other hand, despite being furious over Bai Yu’s actions and words, Chen Tao and Chen Hai couldn’t afford to turn against Bai Yu right now. After all, they were in the Great Tang Empire’s military camp, and with Li Bubai present to keep order, Chen Tao and Chen Hai weren’t foolish enough to cause internal strife before the battle. Li Bubai was particularly intolerant of internal conflicts, not to mention, with Feng Yizhi, the second son of Piaomiao Peak, right there, would they dare to openly oppose Piaomiao Peak? If they really did, then the Chen family could very well be dragged down to an irreversible plight by Chen Tao and Chen Hai! Thus, everything had to wait until their young master, Chen Qirui, woke up before making any decisions.

With this in mind, Chen Tao and Chen Hai cast a menacing glance at Bai Yu and the group of White Clothes Blood Guard before lifting the unconscious Chen Qirui and hurriedly heading towards the direction of the Chen family’s camp.

This time, the Chen family had truly lost face, but Bai Yu had used the Chen family as a stepping stone to soar to the sky, indisputably becoming the fourth most prominent figure among the young generation of the Great Tang Empire, after the Three Prodigies of the Imperial Capital - Ling Feiyun, Zhao Donghai, and Bai Ruoxue. This was undeniable and beyond doubt, although many were reluctant to admit it, it was a fact.

As for Chen Qirui, after Chen Tao, Chen Hai, and the others left, the camp’s entrance returned to its usual tranquility, only this time, the quiet was accompanied by a bit more commotion... Due to Feng Yizhi’s presence, almost all the leading figures of the noble families gathered around, attempting to make connections with the second young master of Piaomiao Peak. Everyone was clear in their hearts, if any family could get the backing of Piaomiao Peak, that family would surely rise rapidly, becoming a super family on par with the Ling Family.

Faced with such temptation, who could resist? In the dangerous and intricate political arena, having a strong enough backing meant an undefeated position. Piaomiao Peak was not as common as cabbage in the market; once missed, there might not be another chance!

Under the influence of Piaomiao Peak’s attractive golden banner, Feng Yizhi was surrounded by people, blatantly becoming the center of attention.

However, in this scene, two groups of forces did not join the ranks of those trying to win over Feng Yizhi - one was the White Feather Legion, which followed Bai Yu’s lead, and the other was the Ning Family, led by Ning Xiang’er.

In Bai Yu’s eyes, Feng Yizhi had just mediated the imminent battle between the Bai and Chen families, which showed his stance. Obviously, this guy must be aware that the poison from Xiao Jue couldn’t be dispelled by anyone and had used this method to secretly win Bai Yu over. One must never forget that Feng Yizhi had come with his father, the young master of Piaomiao Peak, Feng Xuri. With Feng Yizhi’s character that cherished his own life above all else, the first thing he would do upon encountering Feng Xuri would be to beg for an antidote. As for the result of seeking the antidote... Bai Yu already knew!

As for Ning Xiang’er... in this little girl’s eyes, Bai Yu was obviously much more important than Piaomiao Peak. What’s more, in the Ning Family, which was full of talents, Ning Xiang’er could not become the next generation’s head, nor was she interested. Under Ning Jiuxiao’s favoritism, Ning Xiang’er was completely ignorant of political matters. In her eyes, Bai Yu was the most important. How to marry the dazzling Bai Yu into the Ning Family before anyone else was currently the most important thing to Ning Xiang’er, especially after Bai Yu had just unleashed that peerlessly powerful sword strike, utterly defeating Chen Qirui. The mark he left in her heart grew even deeper.

Unlike the hustle and bustle on Feng Yizhi’s side, Bai Yu’s side was much quieter.

Four hundred White Clothes Blood Guards, as well as hundreds of Ning Family elites, stood respectfully behind their leaders, Bai Yu and Ning Xiang’er. Everyone’s expressions were solemn, except for the two leaders of the respective forces, Ning Xuan and Bai Yong... The expressions on the faces of these two old hooligans were extremely unnatural because... the conversation between Bai Yu and Ning Xiang’er was simply too...

Brother Yu, that sword strike of yours just now was amazing!

Ning Xiang’er was like a girl with a crush, her spirited eyes filled with adoration. Being an innocent and naive young girl, she was most likely to fall into hero-worship, and it was clear that Ning Xiang’er had already fallen deep into it, unable to extricate herself.

Faced with Ning Xiang’er’s gaze, full of endless admiration and affection, Bai Yu feigned calmness and solemnly said, Ahem... As a man who doesn’t rely on his looks to get by, I can only conquer my opponents with my strength!

Not rely on his looks, my foot!

Wow! Conquering opponents with strength, Brother Yu, you’re so cool! Ning Xiang’er continued her fangirling. Look at that Ling Feiyun, always wearing a smug smile, and Zhao Donghai, acting all high and mighty every day, as if he’s all that. The most infuriating one is Bai Ruoxue, rejecting such a great man like Brother Yu. Does she think she’s something special just because she has ‘Soaring Upwards’? And then there’s Chen Qirui, who Brother Yu just defeated, a typical hypocrite. Does he think he’s so impressive? And Ling Feixiang, acting as if he’s the only cool guy in the Great Tang Empire! But Brother Yu has always been the coolest!

In just a few sentences, Ning Xiang’er managed to belittle all the outstanding youths of the Great Tang Empire from head to toe, as if in her eyes, no one could compare to Bai Yu!

Indeed, Brother Yu completely agrees! Bai Yu, without any modesty, went along with Ning Xiang’er’s words and continued to boast, Ling Feiyun’s smile is too sleazy, unlike Brother Yu’s sophisticated charm; Zhao Donghai is too arrogant, but that’s all there is to him, he could never achieve the proud demeanor of Brother Yu; as for Chen Qirui and Ling Feiyun, those two losers are just minor characters delivering themselves to Brother Yu’s doorstep, hardly worth mentioning; as for Bai Ruoxue...

At this point, Bai Yu’s expression noticeably stiffened. Regarding Bai Ruoxue, Bai Yu couldn’t really describe his feelings. Initially, he was struck by her beauty and cold demeanor. As a ruffian, Brother Yu’s first thought was to have her beneath him, but after Bai Ruoxue repeatedly disdained Brother Yu and finally annulled their engagement, all that was left in Bai Yu’s feelings for Bai Ruoxue was revenge. But was it really just revenge? Bai Yu didn’t know!

Chapter 93: The Wager

Seemingly detecting the change in Bai Yu’s expression after mentioning Bai Ruoxue, Ning Xiang’er hastily diverted the topic away from her and asked Bai Yu, Oh right, Brother Yu, what’s your relationship with that second young master of Piaomiao Peak? He seemed to have been defending you the whole time just now!

Ning Xiang’er wasn’t stupid; on the contrary, the girl was quite clever! Feng Yizhi had been so blatantly partial towards the Bai Family just now, there was no way Ning Xiang’er would fail to notice. Moreover, Ning Xiang’er had heard of Piaomiao Peak’s reputation since she was little. To be honest, she was also quite curious about the exact relationship between Bai Yu and Piaomiao Peak.

Bai Yu shook his head vigorously, as if trying to shake Bai Ruoxue’s graceful figure out of his mind. Then, Bai Yu refocused his gaze on Ning Xiang’er’s flawless, delicate face. Looking at Ning Xiang’er’s skin as white as snow and her rosy, tender lips, a shameless idea suddenly sprouted in Bai Yu’s mind.

Little Sister Xiang’er, how about we make a bet? Bai Yu said with an exceptionally lewd, sly smile.

Okay! How do you want to bet? Ning Xiang’er widened her lively eyes, a look of confusion in them. Her long eyelashes fluttered, captivatingly beautiful.

You’ve heard of Piaomiao Peak’s reputation, right?

Of course! Piaomiao Peak and the Temple of Extreme Happiness are the most mysterious and powerful forces in the Divine Land, and Piaomiao Peak’s Feng Family is known as the number one family in the Divine Land! Ning Xiang’er nodded solemnly. It seemed that the existence of the Four Great Families was a secret to the vast majority of people in the Divine Land.

Since Piaomiao Peak is so powerful, Brother Yu says that Brother Yu can make that second young master of Piaomiao Peak listen to Brother Yu’s every word, do you believe it?

Listen to you? Ning Xiang’er blinked her lively big eyes in disbelief. Xiang’er knows that Brother Yu might have some relationship with Piaomiao Peak, but for the second young master of Piaomiao Peak, a legitimate descendant of the Feng Family, to listen to you...

Obviously, Ning Xiang’er didn’t believe it! It wasn’t that Ning Xiang’er didn’t believe it, it was that no one would believe it! What was Piaomiao Peak’s status in the Divine Land? And what was the Feng Family’s status? Since the Temple of Extreme Happiness wasn’t a force with a family structure, the Feng Family of Piaomiao Peak, which was on par with the Temple of Extreme Happiness, naturally became the number one family in the Divine Land. Would the dignified second young master of the number one family in the Divine Land listen to Bai Yu? If others were to hear these words, Bai Yu would probably be scorned: Compared to the Feng Family of Piaomiao Peak, you’re just a stinky sock seller, what are you pretending to be a great hero of the Divine Land for?

However, Ning Xiang’er’s infatuation with Bai Yu had reached a certain extent. In her heart, she wouldn’t think of Brother Yu as a stinky sock seller, at most she would just disbelieve him.

Brother Yu knows you won’t believe it, that’s why he wants to make this bet with you. If Feng Yizhi really listens to Brother Yu, then you close your eyes for three seconds. If Brother Yu loses, then he’ll unconditionally do anything for you, anything at all. What do you say?

Bai Yu looked at Ning Xiang’er’s rosy, tender cherry lips with a lewd smile. Who knew what his intentions were?

Okay!

Ning Xiang’er agreed without any hesitation. Perhaps in her eyes, Feng Yizhi, the second young master of the Feng Family of Piaomiao Peak, wouldn’t take Bai Yu seriously at all. Or perhaps, even if Ning Xiang’er lost, there was nothing much to closing her eyes for three seconds. Most importantly, Ning Xiang’er had been completely captivated by Bai Yu’s empty promise. To unconditionally do anything for Ning Xiang’er, how tempting was that? To Ning Xiang’er, it was like a pie falling from the sky. After all, in Ning Xiang’er’s eyes, Feng Yizhi definitely wouldn’t listen to Bai Yu.

Seeing Ning Xiang’er agree to the bet, Bai Yu didn’t waste any more words. He gave Ning Xiang’er a mysterious smile, then squatted on the ground and shouted at the top of his lungs, Feng Yizhi, come here!

Bai Yu’s shout was so powerful it seemed to shake the heavens and earth, and like thunder on a clear day, it cut through all the noisy chatter around, drawing everyone’s attention to him. They were all eager to find out who this audacious individual was, daring to call out the illustrious Second Young Master Feng by name.

Indeed, Brother Yu did not disappoint the crowd. Following the direction of the voice, they finally spotted Bai Yu. Probably, in the entire Great Tang Empire, only Bai Yu, this brash and arrogant fool, could pull off such a stunt! At that moment, the look in everyone’s eyes, as they gazed at Bai Yu, was filled with a hint of schadenfreude, especially those from the Ling Family, Liu Family, and some of the Chen Family members who hadn’t left the vicinity. Although the grudges between Bai Yu and the three major families - Ling, Chen, and Liu - weren’t to the extent of a fight to the death, the animosity was deep-seated. Since Ling Feixiang, Chen Qirui, and others had been defeated by Bai Yu, it seemed that apart from Ling Feiyun, the elder son, no one else in the younger generation of these three families was qualified to be Bai Yu’s opponent. It appeared that Ling Feiyun had no intention of dealing with Bai Yu, which led the families to place their hopes on Second Young Master Feng. After all, Bai Yu’s shout was a clear sign of disrespect towards Second Young Master Feng!

Everyone was looking forward to the drama, their gazes shifting back and forth between Feng Yizhi and Bai Yu, curious about how Feng Yizhi would deal with Bai Yu, this disrespectful upstart!

Initially, Feng Yizhi, one of the main characters of this episode, was quite angry upon hearing the shout. His handsome face showed unmistakable rage. However, as soon as he saw who was making the racket, Feng Yizhi’s expression did a complete 180-degree turn, with all traces of anger vanishing, replaced by a flattering smile!

Damn! Such a rapid and bizarre change in expression?

Bai Yu, with an utterly rascally demeanor, squatted on the ground and cheekily waved at Feng Yizhi, Come here!

Seeing Bai Yu’s arrogant gesture, everyone was secretly delighted, hoping to see Feng Yizhi fly into a rage and give Bai Yu a good thrashing. In the eyes of the Ling, Liu, and Chen families, the best outcome would be for Feng Yizhi to execute Bai Yu on the spot!

However, most things in the world don’t go as one wishes, just like what was happening right now...

Upon seeing Bai Yu, Feng Yizhi’s face immediately lit up with a smile. Far from being angry, he seemed actually pleased. Feng Yizhi cheerfully waved back at Bai Yu and laughed, It’s Young Master Yu! Long time no see!

After saying that, Feng Yizhi pushed away the flies buzzing around him and strode towards Bai Yu. It had been a long time since they had seen each other; these two scheming fellows probably hadn’t met in hours, right? Besides, when Feng Yizhi followed Feng Xuri to the Great Tang Empire camp, had he not seen Bai Yu? Of course he had, but before Feng Yizhi could take the initiative to find Bai Yu, he had been surrounded by this swarm of flies. Now that Bai Yu was taking the initiative to greet him, Feng Yizhi was naturally overjoyed. This meant that he had a chance to get the antidote!

However, Feng Yizhi’s reaction at this moment was far beyond everyone’s expectations. Not only did he not get angry, he even put on a flattered expression! Damn! This was like a mouse ordering a cat around, it was unbelievable!

Just like that, under the shocked gazes of everyone present, Feng Yizhi and Bai Yu, these two shameless fellows, greeted each other like long-lost friends... Piaomiao Peak and the Bai Family were two completely different forces, one in the heavens and the other on the ground. Even if everyone racked their brains, they couldn’t figure out how Bai Yu and Feng Yizhi, two people who were clearly not on the same level, knew each other, and it seemed like they were quite close!

On one side, Feng Yizhi walked towards Bai Yu with a big smile, while on the other side, Bai Yu said softly to Ning Xiang’er with the smile of a victor, A bet is a bet, Xiang’er, close your eyes!

Ning Xiang’er, her face full of shock, was in a state of temporary mental paralysis. She couldn’t understand how Feng Yizhi could have listened to Bai Yu so obediently and come over when he called. Were they really friends? Impossible! The entire Imperial Capital City of the Great Tang Empire knew Bai Yu’s true colors. Once upon a time, Bai Yu had been nothing more than a piece of trash. Although he had risen to power in just a month, it was impossible for him to have established a connection with the Feng Family of Piaomiao Peak, right? This was simply too unbelievable!

Although Ning Xiang’er didn’t understand what was going on between Bai Yu and Feng Yizhi, out of instinct, Ning Xiang’er, who was still in shock, subconsciously closed her eyes...

Suddenly, Bai Yu moved with lightning speed!

He aimed at Ning Xiang’er’s soft, rosy lips, and without giving her any time to react, swiftly kissed her!

Chapter 94: Mutual Calculations

As their lips met, Bai Yu savored an incredibly soft sensation and a refreshing fragrance that delighted his heart and soul, while Ning Xiang’er felt as if she had been struck by lightning, overwhelmed by the distinct masculine scent emanating from Bai Yu. Her heart fluttered as if countless little deer were running amok inside... It was a truly marvelous feeling.

Instantly, Ning Xiang’er’s eyes snapped open, and almost instinctively, she pushed Bai Yu away. Her cheeks were already quietly flushed with a deep blush, as if blood was about to drip from them, an embarrassingly shy sight!

Silence, utter silence! Everyone within the vicinity hadn’t yet recovered from the shock Feng Yizhi had brought upon them when they witnessed Bai Yu kissing Ning Xiang’er... Who was Ning Xiang’er? The precious jewel in the hands of the Grand Marshal of Soldiers and Horses of the Great Tang Empire, Ning Jiuxiao, a little demon who had swept through all the young nobles of the Imperial Capital City, truly a figure that even ghosts would lament upon seeing. Yet now, this little demon, Ning Xiang’er, had been kissed by Bai Yu, and it seemed... Ning Xiang’er, this young lady, actually blushed? Did the figure that ghosts would lament also know how to blush? The crowd was stunned...

You’re so naughty!

After quite a while, Ning Xiang’er finally snapped out of that strange yet sweet sensation. Her face was as red as if it had been covered in bright rouge, unbelievably so. After dropping that comment, Ning Xiang’er then fled like the wind deep into the camp of the Great Tang Empire...

Here, Brother Yu seemed to still be savoring the softness of Ning Xiang’er’s lips and her shyly flushed cheeks... But Brother Yu didn’t realize what his kiss truly meant! Perhaps in Bai Yu’s eyes, a kiss meant nothing. However, in the Divine Land Continent, a world with a strict hierarchical system and deeply feudalistic, Bai Yu’s gentle kiss carried a different implication—since Bai Yu and Ning Xiang’er had shared such intimacy, Ning Xiang’er might no longer accept anyone else but Bai Yu as her husband. Moreover... Ning Xiang’er’s reaction just now seemed to indicate she wasn’t averse to this arrangement?

However, after Bai Yu kissed Ning Xiang’er, it completely set off another climax!

Did you see that? Bai Yu just... just...

He actually kissed Miss Ning of the Ning Family!

My goodness! Did you see Miss Ning’s reaction? She seemed not to resent Bai Yu at all!

Could it be that the Bai Family and the Ning Family are about to become in-laws?

But how could Miss Ning take a liking to Bai Yu? Even though he is now... after all, he was once...

That’s all in the past! Haven’t you witnessed what kind of power Bai Yu possesses now?

Instantly, Bai Yu’s kiss stirred up a storm of discussions, like a tsunami of voices erupting. However, Bai Yu, one of the main characters in this scenario, seemed oblivious to the commotion. He merely scoffed disdainfully, clearly annoyed by the ignorance of these onlookers. It was just a simple kiss, after all. What was the big deal?

Just then, amidst the roaring discussions, Ning Xuan, serving as Ning Xiang’er’s personal bodyguard, slowly approached Bai Yu. Looking at him, calm and collected, yet showing contempt for the surrounding crowd, Ning Xuan said with a half-smile, Young Master Bai, for such a significant matter, one must first seek the approval of the Grand Marshal and General Bai. You can’t rush these things!

After dropping those words, Ning Xuan, along with the guards of the Ning Family, gracefully departed.

After Ning Xuan left, this time it was Bai Yu’s turn to be bewildered! What significant matter? Approval from Ning Jiuxiao and Bai Wuji was needed? And it couldn’t be rushed? What was this all about?

Bai Yu, feeling somewhat bewildered, watched Ning Xuan’s disappearing figure, while Bai Yong, sensing Bai Yu’s confusion, stepped forward and whispered, Young Master, you just publicly kissed Miss Ning of the Ning Family. It seems our Bai Family and the Ning Family are inevitably heading towards an engagement. Moreover, judging by Miss Ning’s shy demeanor, it appears she has a fondness for you, Young Master!

Engagement? Bai Yu blinked dryly, muttering as if in a trance, A public kiss... leads to an engagement? Really?

Marriage is no trifling matter. For a woman, her chastity is more precious than her life! Bai Yong earnestly and patiently explained, Young Master, you indeed publicly kissed Miss Ning. Given this, she may have no choice but to marry you for the rest of her life. Moreover, considering the status and position of the Ning Family, such an incident cannot be taken lightly. So, once we reach Yumen Pass, this matter must be reported to the family head!

Bai Yong then seemed to get lost in thought, If the Ning and Bai families could become in-laws, that would replace the Zhao family as the military faction’s leader. By then, not even the Chen and Liu families would dare to contend with the Bai and Ning families. Young Master, you truly have a long-term vision, preparing well ahead!

Bai Yong wasn’t wrong. Although the Bai Family was considered a second-tier family within the Imperial Capital City, the Ning Family was undeniably one of the Great Tang Empire’s most prestigious families. Ning Xiang’er was the apple of Ning Jiuxiao’s eye. If the Bai and Ning families really could become in-laws, it would solidify an absolutely reliable alliance. Both Bai Wuji and Ning Jiuxiao held military command; if they joined forces, the combined might of their families would be formidable, possessing nearly forty percent of the Great Tang Empire’s military power!

A kiss leading to engagement? Bai Yu was dumbfounded! However, deep inside, he harbored a tiny flicker of hope.

While Bai Yu was preoccupied with thoughts of his kiss with Ning Xiang’er and the prospect of becoming in-laws with the Ning Family as mentioned by Bai Yong, Feng Yizhi arrived as promised.

Young Master Yu, we meet again! Feng Yizhi greeted Bai Yu with a soft smile.

Then, mimicking Bai Yu, Feng Yizhi squatted down, though he was unaccustomed to it. This gesture was an attempt to subtly align with Bai Yu, an opportunity Feng Yizhi wouldn’t miss. Despite appearing inept, Feng Yizhi was thoroughly clever with the details and nuances.

On the side, witnessing Feng Yizhi and Bai Yu squatting down face-to-face, Bai Yong understood that these two definitely had an important matter to discuss, so he promptly dismissed the White Clothes Blood Guards behind him. Then, Bai Yong tactfully retreated ten or more paces, forming a human wall with the 400 White Clothes Blood Guards, vigilantly watching the surrounding movements and guarding against anyone overhearing Bai Yu and Feng Yizhi’s conversation.

At this moment, an absolutely empty zone formed around Bai Yu and Feng Yizhi, a place where they could speak freely.

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