TtwB6a0b

1Chapter 280: Sword Shadow Gu (Two chapters in one)
2
3
4
5No sooner said than done!
6
7Fang Yuan moved like lightning, pouncing on Tang Qing.
8
9Pew!
10
11A strong wind blew. Tang Qing only saw darkness in front of him, and before he was able to react, Fang Yuan's fist hit his chest.
12
13At once, Tang Qing could feel an intense pain assaulting him, almost causing him to faint on the spot.
14
15His ears could only hear the sound of winds brushing by, as his vision rolled back; he was sent flying by Fang Yuan's frontal assault.
16
17When he landed, his head spun. He saw grass, then the railings of the battle stage, then his face rubbed against the dirt. As he flipped and rolled, the grass was uprooted by the friction, causing the black soil to be exposed.
18
19His body was covered in grass and soil, the smell from the juices of the grass, the soil and fresh blood mixed together and entered his nose.
20
21He laid on the ground, dazed. After rolling and tumbling for so long, he felt his entire body hurting.
22
23But this feeling, was nothing compared to the intense pain on his chest!
24
25He lowered his head to look at his chest, and breathed in cold air.
26
27Only to see that the left side of his chest had caved in by two inches, his skin was torn and flesh was exposed, his pale rib cage could be seen, broken.
28
29A stream of fresh blood poured out like a fountain.
30
31Fang Yuan had great strength, and also attacked suddenly, causing Tang Qing to be severely injured.
32
33Tang Qing stared with wide opened eyes, after the shock, hatred burst out of his heart like burning magma.
34
35"This rascal, unscrupulous and shameless, attacking me by surprise! Causing me to be severely injured, I want to kill him, I want to tear him into pieces!"
36
37"Go die!" Just at this moment, Tang Qing heard Fang Yuan's growls.
38
39Fang Yuan took a few steps to arrive before Tang Qing, he raised his leg and stepped harshly at the area between Tang Qing's legs.
40
41Tang Qing felt his vision blurring, and squinted. Fang Yuan activated the canopy Gu, and his body was covered by a white armor. Tang Qing's heart trembled.
42
43A rank three Gu Master!
44
45Fang Yuan had first used the breath concealment Gu, but now that he attacked, he could no longer conceal his rank three aura.
46
47The truth directly sent Tang Qing's soul flying beyond the horizon. Such a young rank three Gu Master?!
48
49He subconsciously activated his defense Gu, as a gust of green wind surrounded his body.
50
51Fang Yuan had stored a lot of energy into this kick, it was supposed to smash Tang Qing's lower body part into paste. But because of the wind, the impact was greatly reduced.
52
53"Ah!" Tang Qing opened his mouth, his face contorted as he screamed out in utter anguish.
54
55Even with a defensive Gu, the damage he suffered was like a lightning strike, his body automatically bounced up as he sat on the ground, using both arms to shield his pants.
56
57Fang Yuan's eyes shone with cold light, his left hand gathered into a fist and punched.
58
59He used all his strength for this punch.
60
61The force tore through the winds!
62
63Bam!
64
65A fist covered in white light landed heavily on Tang Qing's face.
66
67Tang Qing's screams came to a stop, as he rapidly fell backwards, his head hitting against the ground.
68
69Motionless, and not breathing.
70
71A fatal blow!
72
73His entire nose caved into his face, his eye bulged out as more than half of his eyeballs were outside the socket, and his skull was completely smashed.
74
75Blood flowed down slowly, dying the soil and grass red.
76
77Fang Yuan stood upright and looked down at the corpse, as the scene froze.
78
79After a few breath's time, screams erupted from the surroundings.
80
81"Dead… he died!"
82
83"Someone was beaten to death!"
84
85The two to three Gu Masters watching were tongue-tied. Even Wei Yang showed a peculiar expression.
86
87Although there were many battles in the battle stage, there were few deaths.
88
89Firstly, the battle stage allowed surrendering. Secondly, the Gu Master overlooking the battle can often stop the fatal attack in time. Thirdly, competitors tend to control themselves, after all, they were all trying to make a living in the battle stage, they would have to interact with one another quite often. Although they might argue over benefits, they would not try to take the other person's life.
90
91There was two reasons why Fang Yuan could kill Tang Qing.
92
93Firstly, he had just come out of cultivation, and his battle instincts were dull. If it was during a normal period, he would have used his defensive Gu from the start, not getting into such a state.
94
95Secondly, Fang Yuan looked way too young, and used the breath concealment Gu to hide his cultivation, causing Tang Qing to relax. Before he could react, Fang Yuan launched a sneak attack, with the first blow severely injured Tang Qing, and his next two attacks were lightning fast, before the Gu Master taking care of the stage reacted, Tang Qing was already dead.
96
97The Gu Master hosting the battle rapidly came over.
98
99But when he saw Tang Qing's concaved face, and the brain matter and blood oozing out from the cracks of his skull, he gave up on trying to save him.
100
101"Youngster, you were too much!" He stared at Fang Yuan, speaking with an unhappy tone.
102
103Although the battle was short, he had observed the entire thing. Fang Yuan had control of the situation, he could have gone easy on Tang Qing and spared his life, but he did not.
104
105Fang Yuan shrugged: "It is just a life, why are you freaking out. According to the battle stage rules, I killed him, so all his possessions are now mine, right?"
106
107The battle stage host Gu Master snorted: "All his things are yours, but we have to take back the vine information Gu. Young man, I have to remind you, you do not respect life at all, that is a dangerous thought!"
108
109"I am really sorry." Wei Yang walked over apologetically, then turned around: "This little brother of mine have been roaming outside, this is the first time he is participating in the battle stage."
110
111The Gu Master did not recognise Wei Yang, showing disgust on his face: "Hmph, you demonic Gu Masters are all like this, such an aggressive nature and enjoy killing and slaughtering. Nevermind, I can't get through to you, pass me your vine information Gu."
112
113Fang Yuan took out the vine information Gu, and the host Gu Master edited the information inside, and returned it to Fang Yuan.
114
115Fang Yuan inspected the Gu, and his zero wins record had become one.
116
117He next searched Tang Qing's corpse, obtaining four Gu. Three rank two and one rank one, they were ordinary Gu worms, the total value was around two thousand primeval stones.
118
119Tang Qing died very abruptly, causing him to have no time to self-detonate his Gu worms.
120
121And he had just come out of closed cultivation, there was only twenty to thirty primeval stones on him.
122
123"Brother Fang Zheng, try to avoid killing in the future." After they left the battle stage, Wei Yang advised Fang Yuan.
124
125"Even though there is no rules to prevent killing in the battle stage…" Wei Yang shook his head: "There is no need to fight to the death in every round. Although the battle zone might be huge, you are bound to encounter an opponent stronger than you eventually. We interact with each other more than you think, after all, we all live in Shang clan city. When it is possible to spare a life, one should show mercy."
126
127Fang Yuan frowned slightly: "But if I let someone off, they might not let me off. I have encountered demonic Gu Masters in the past, attacking without a second word. If I do not strike, I will be assaulted. My experiences tell me to kill when I can, otherwise, I am breeding threats for myself, I cannot give my enemies a chance! Precisely because of this, I am able to live till today."
128
129Wei Yang was caught speechless.
130
131He suddenly thought, wasn't this Fang Yuan acting just like him in the past? Ruthless and savage, not trusting anyone, it all boils down to having no sense of security.
132
133Demonic Gu Masters had little to no sense of security.
134
135They were different from righteous Gu Masters who had their clans to rely on, clansmen to help them, safely getting resources, it gave them a sense of security and trust in each other.
136
137Demonic Gu Masters were mostly lone cultivators, receiving no support from anyone, even primeval stones and food have to be acquired by themselves. Many times, they eat one meal without the next, unable to fend for themselves, how could they feel safe?
138
139To ensure their survival, they could only take risks and attack people to loot them. Demonic Gu Masters were often alone, they did not dare to attack righteous groups, thus they can only lay their claws on other demonic Gu Masters.
140
141Thus, it leads to a vicious cycle. Demonic Gu Masters do not trust each other, often attacking on sight.
142
143They had no sense of security, thus their attacks were more ruthless.
144
145Wei Yang converted from demonic to righteous, his rich life experience gave him a deep understanding of both factions, more than any ordinary person.
146
147Why is it that the righteous faction flourished, and the demonic faction have to be suppressed?
148
149It was due to this.
150
151Fang Yuan's ruthless acts were completely understandable to Wei Yang. And because he understood, his heart went out to Fang Yuan.
152
153"Although he is rank three cultivation, and has rich battle senses, he is still a kid. Sigh, looking at his attacks, I can tell how much hardship he has been through. Come to think of it, if he spared his opponent, wouldn't that be more strange?"
154
155"He did not spare his opponent, just like other demonic Gu Masters who initially entered the battle stage. I was like that too, wasn't I? Nevermind, as time passes, he will slowly change. This change is gradual and subtle, I cannot forcefully influence him."
156
157Thinking so, Wei Yang stopped his nagging, and changed topic to the battle earlier.
158
159"Little brother Fang Zheng, you said earlier that you have used several Gu to modify your body, and increase your strength. Just how many did you use?"
160
161"Since brother Wei is asking, I shall answer to the best of my ability. I used three, black and white boar Gu, crocodile strength Gu, and currently, the brown bear innate strength Gu that I just bought." Fang Yuan smiled lightly.
162
163"Hehehe, black and white boar Gu gave you the strength of two boars, crocodile strength Gu gave you the strength of a crocodile. But brother, have you thought about it, if a boar charged at you, what injuries would you sustain?" Wei Yang spoke with an enlightening tone.
164
165Fang Yuan knew Wei Yang's intentions, thus he cooperated, saying: "If he does not defend, how can a mortal body take the hit of a wild boar? His stomach will tear and it would be a gruesome sight."
166
167Wei Yang's smile widened: "Then if you place that person's head in a crocodile's mouth, and the crocodile bites, what would happen?"
168
169"The head would burst like a watermelon." Fang Yuan replied.
170
171Wei Yang next asked: "You have the strength of two boars, one crocodile and your own strength. Your first punch however, only made a dent in his chest, and broke a few ribs. Your third punch landed on his face, but only cracked his skull, what does that say?"
172
173But before Fang Yuan replied, he continued: "Punches and kicks can only unleash a portion of the strength in a person's body. Although you have two boars and one crocodile's strength, how many percent can you use? The greatest weakness of the strength path lies here! A person's strength is like a huge vat, filled with water, but when you battle, you can only use a portion of that water."
174
175"Black and white boar Gu, crocodile strength Gu, brown bear innate strength Gu, these can permanently increase strength, but are expensive Gu. You invested so much money, yet only getting a portion of the results, sometimes not even ten percent. If you invest your money elsewhere, you can gain much greater effect."
176
177"I see, brother Wei is saying all these to make me give up on the strength path." Fang Yuan smiled lightly, like he finally understood what was happening.
178
179"I understand that logic, the human body has a different structure from wild beasts, we can hardly display their true strength. But using Gu also depends on being one with them, I've heard of many strength path Gu Masters who managed to unleash the beast phantom, displaying the full power of the Gu worm."
180
181"Hehehe, there is such a thing indeed. When I was still in the battle stage, I met many strength path Gu Masters. As their proficiency in the Gu increases, sometimes, the beast phantom appears in battle and they can use the full strength of the Gu, it is very threatening. But you do not know, the number of times this happens is too few. Moreover, the attack method is very rigid, only when using a specific attack style can the beast phantom be summoned, it is easy to evade." Wei Yang continued to advise painstakingly.
182
183Fang Yuan pondered for a moment, he had the exact thought, but that is also why he needed that legendary Gu.
184
185What came out of his mouth was: "Brother Wei, I appreciate your concern, but the strength path is my choice, I want to see it till the end."
186
187"Sigh, then go ahead with it." Wei Yang sighed, seeing Fang Yuan being so obstinate, he could not force him.
188
189Thankfully, Fang Yuan had already joined the battle stage, Wei Yang thought: What happens next should change Fang Yuan's mind.
190
191Fang Yuan had to stay in Shang clan city for a few more years, there was a lot of time left, Wei Yang was not anxious.
192
193Soon, half a month passed.
194
195In the gambling den, the shopkeeper bent his back, standing beside Fang Yuan, smiling.
196
197"Brother Wei, want to pick a few rocks to play? We might get something good. I'll treat you to a few!" Fang Yuan smiled and said.
198
199Wei Yang stood beside Fang Yuan, shaking his head: "Today is the day Tang Xiong forcefully challenges you, to think the Tang Qing you killed was his brother. Fang Zheng, you should be vigilant, in order to take revenge, Tang Xiong purposely fell from fourth inner city to fifth. He has a small fame, able to use the strength of three bears, he is coming with vengeance."
200
201Although he said so, he was not worried, but instead, looking forward to it secretly.
202
203These days, Fang Yuan won another match, thus this would be his third match.
204
205Wei Yang was hoping this Tang Xiong would 'awaken' Fang Yuan, and cause him to abandon the strength path, changing to another style.
206
207"I will deal with it when it comes, what is there to worry about. If brother Wei is not going to choose, I'm going to. I have already seen several good rocks." Fang Yuan's eyes glowed as he picked a few gambling rocks.
208
209The shopkeeper instructed his clerks to carefully select the gambling rocks and bring them out.
210
211"Eh?" Fang Yuan said, pointing to a leg of the counter: "This rock supporting the leg seems to be a stellar stone?"
212
213The shopkeeper was stunned, but quickly replied: "Esteemed customer sure has amazing eyes. This rock was placed there a few years ago by me. The counter leg was damaged by a gambler's kicking, so I picked a squarish stellar stone and used it to fill in the gap."
214
215Fang Yuan frowned: "Rocks are meant for gambling, how can you use it like that? You're truly burying the rock's potential! Today, for my last piece, I shall choose that."
216
217"Yes, yes, yes, esteemed customer is right!" The shopkeeper nodded rapidly, but he felt indifferent in his heart.
218
219The grade of the stellar stone was very important, arrow or shooting star shaped ones were the best. This rock was obviously a useless one, no one asked for it when it was on the counter, so the shopkeeper used it to balance the counter instead.
220
221The clerks worked together, pulling out the stellar stone from the counter leg, then placing it together with the other rocks to send it for dissection.
222
223At the dissection counter, a few young dissection masters were opening rocks for a middle aged Gu Master, moving delicately and slowly.
224
225Wei Yang did not approve of Fang Yuan gambling rocks. Seeing him pick this rock, he shook his head secretly. Even if he was not a gambler, he knew the importance of grades. Fang Yuan's final rock was completely chosen at random, even he could not stand it. Fang Yuan had been spending the last few days at the gambling den, spending primeval stones, but did not get much rewards out of it.
226
227Sometimes he got a few Gu, but they were rank one or two, or even corpses and carcasses.
228
229In Wei Yang's heart, Fang Yuan was purely wasting his money, but he did not say anything against it. The less primeval stones Fang Yuan had, the more he needed to rely on Shang clan, that was something he wanted to see.
230
231Fang Yuan was excited in his heart but kept a calm expression, staring at the dissection counter in anticipation.
232
233These days, he had been roaming around the gambling dens, purposely choosing some bad rocks to leave an impression.
234
235Although he had controlled himself, and only played small, the gambling rocks were like an endless abyss, in less than a month, he lost over a hundred thousand primeval stones.
236
237But thinking about the legendary Gu he was about to receive, not only a hundred thousand, even five hundred thousand was worth it.
238
239Although this legendary Gu was rank three, its effect was simply amazing, and it was nearly extinct.
240
241Most likely, this was the last one in this world.
242
243Wei Yang frowned: "Mind the time, you have to rush to the battle stage later, shopkeeper, can the dissection be faster?"
244
245"Of course, of course." The shopkeeper recognised Wei Yang the external clan elder, and quickly nodded.
246
247He ran to the dissection counter, waving his hand, saying to the young dissection masters: "Go, go, go."
248
249He sent those dissection masters away, to one side.
250
251"My rocks…" The middle aged Gu Master cried out.
252
253Rock dissecting was a meticulous process, once they got interrupted, the young dissection masters flustered and caused a few of the rocks to be destroyed.
254
255"Li Ran, stop screaming, we will return you your primeval stones." The shopkeeper shouted.
256
257The middle aged Gu Master with a messy beard stared with wide opened eyes, saying indignantly: "What if there was a Gu inside?"
258
259The shopkeeper laughed in disdain, waving his hand at the middle aged Gu Master: "Come on Li Ran, you have been gambling for so many years, you only choose low grade rocks, when have you ever gotten anything good? Stop making a din, or you will lose your compensation!"
260
261"Spit, such a large shops bullying customers, you are looking down on me, one day, I will make it big in life!" The middle aged Gu Master muttered, his tone furious but did not continue making a din.
262
263"Li Ran…" This name made Fang Yuan recall a certain memory.
264
265He could not help but show a weird expression.
266
267This Li Ran, was that person who obtained the legendary Gu. Of course, they might have the same name...
268
269But no matter what, Li Ran's one chance at success was snatched by Fang Yuan.
270
271The five old masters took the stage, starting to dissect the rocks.
272
273The younger masters were speechless, these seniors were using all sorts of flashy methods. Many rocks were easy to dissect, only requiring little primeval essence, but they had to use their full force, and cause their primeval essence to be greatly expended, using many steps only to raise the success rate by a meagre percent.
274
275More than ten rocks, including scrap grade, low grade and middle grade were quickly opened.
276
277"There is a Gu, the sword shadow Gu!"
278
279"Rank three sword shadow Gu, so rare…"
280
281"A living Gu, it is definitely alive, congratulations esteemed customer."
282
283The old masters cupped their fists at Fang Yuan, sighing in relief.
284
285Fang Yuan had been gambling these few days, but did not get any rewards. It caused these old masters to feel uneasy.
286
287The shopkeeper ran over, looking joyous: "Esteemed customer, you have earned a lot! The sword shadow Gu can be sold for thirty two thousand primeval stones, but you only spent eight thousand!"
288
289The surrounding people were envious of Fang Yuan, and that Li Ran even pouted, saying sourly: "Hmph, you just got lucky."
290
291"That's good brother, the sword shadow Gu is at the same level as my broadsword light Gu. I advise you not to sell it but use it yourself." Wei Yang congratulated.
292
293"Hehehe, the light at the end of the tunnel, I said my luck was not so bad." Fang Yuan laughed: "Brother Wei, after today's match ends, I will treat you to a drink, let's celebrate."
294
295Wei Yang nodded, not rejecting it. He did not know that although Fang Yuan was cheerful on the outside, his heart was in complete shock at the moment!
296
297The sword shadow Gu was an accident, it was not his goal.
298
299That stellar stone supporting the counter had no Gu inside after dissecting it, it was a useless rock!
300
301How can this be?
302
303Where is that legendary Gu?!
304
305At once, Fang Yuan's mind was flashing with questions as his heart stirred.
306
307Numerous suspicions popped up in his mind.
308
309How can this happen?!
310
311Wasn't the legendary Gu hidden in this stellar stone?
312
313If it is not this stone, where can it be? Or maybe it was not this rock, or not this gambling den?
314
315Or maybe the rumors were false? Where am I supposed to find that legendary Gu now?
316
317Things had progressed way out of Fang Yuan's expectations. The Gu that he thought was easily obtainable had gone missing, and the sword shadow Gu he had obtained out of luck was not enough to recoup his losses these few days.
318
319"If there is no legendary Gu, my efforts would have been in vain. Damn it, how can this happen? There might be an error in the rumors, but rumors travel far and wide, there has to be a basis for it. Especially when this detail was so specific, there was nothing that deviated from the rumors, but why is it…"
320
321Fang Yuan gritted his teeth secretly.
322
323Without this legendary Gu, his strength path cultivation would be gone like smoke.
324
325"Do I really need to change my cultivation direction? But if I do that, the three kings inheritance would be greatly affected!"
326
327The result of the rock dissection greatly affect Fang Yuan's plans. But he did not know what the problem was, or what went wrong.
328
329The rumors had been shrouded in a deep mysterious fog.
330
331"It is almost time, we should head to the battle stage." At this time, Wei Yang reminded.
332
333Chapter 281: Bear Strength Phantom
334
335
336
337When Fang Yuan stepped into the battle stage, all the random thoughts were cast out of his head.
338
339He calmly sized up the opponent in front of him.
340
341Tang Xiong.
342
343He was eight feet tall, wide shoulders and a thick waist. Just his arms alone were as thick as Fang Yuan's thighs, as he stood on the stage without an upper garment or shoes.
344
345His chest was filled with black chest hair, giving off a wild and formidable aura.
346
347"Little scoundrel, you killed my little brother? Today, I shall send you to accompany him in the afterlife!" Tang Xiong looked at Fang Yuan with bloodshot eyes, the flames of hatred could be clearly seen.
348
349The surrounding temperature was burning as if it was the torrid afternoon heat of July or August.
350
351The ground was boiling hot; black and red mixed together to form the lava terrain.
352
353This was a mid-scale battle stage. There were only few spectators about dozens, most of them came to watch how Tang Xiong took revenge.
354
355As for Fang Yuan, he might have obtained two victories but it still wasn't enough for him to be famous.
356
357"Tang brothers grew up relying on each other; now Tang Qing is dead and only Tang Xiong remains."
358
359"Hehe, I am waiting to see how Tang Xiong tortures this kid to death."
360
361"Eh, what is this kid's name?"
362
363"I think he was called Gu Yue Fang Zheng, a no-name junior."
364
365"This kid is too thoughtless, he actually dared to break the unsaid rules and kill his first two opponents."
366
367"He should be a demonic Gu Master who had only recently entered the city…"
368
369"Alas, the young do not know to conduct themselves. This day wouldn't have come if he had shown mercy."
370
371The audience continued talking about the match, but no one was optimistic about Fang Yuan.
372
373Wei Yang was in a disguise and was looking at the battle stage with a burning gaze. Tang Xiong also walked the strength path, he was a rank two peak stage expert but could unleash with the strength of three bears and even won his way through to fourth inner city. He was a strong opponent for the current Fang Yuan.
374
375Ding!
376
377A clear ring of the bell announced the start of the match.
378
379Tang Xiong roared and charged straight at Fang Yuan like a wild bull.
380
381The ground of this battle stage was made of dark red lava rocks. Fang Yuan could feel the scalding heat from the ground even though he was wearing boots. While Tang Xiong was barefooted, he did not pay any attention to the heat.
382
383Tum tum tum.
384
385Every time Tang Xiong's feet stepped on the ground, it produced a loud and deep sound. At the same time, his every step shattered the lava rocks and left a deep footprint in the ground.
386
387Fang Yuan narrowed his eyes, his gaze as sharp as a blade's edge!
388
389He was at ease despite Tang Xiong's aggressive momentum; the corner of his lips curled up into a cold smile as he outrageously charged at Tang Xiong head-on.
390
391"Has he gone crazy?"
392
393"He dares to face Tang Xiong head-on?"
394
395"He could have had a chance to survive if he prolonged the match, this is simply charging towards his doom."
396
397The audience shook their heads as they looked at this scene.
398
399Fang Yuan was young, his body was not even half as muscular as Tang Xiong's. The scene of him charging at Tang Xiong was like a lamb colliding with a big ox.
400
401Bam!
402
403The two fiercely collided against each other, the enormous strength sent both of them flying.
404
405Tang Xiong was thrown back six steps, as a clearly shocked expression showed on his face. 'How could this kid have such huge great strength?'
406
407Meanwhile, Fang Yuan was thrown back three steps, as the white light armor protecting his body shook.
408
409The result of the collision amazed the audience.
410
411Some had their jaws wide open and some repeatedly blinked their eyes, not having expected Fang Yuan to possess such strength.
412
413"My strength is actually less than his? No wonder little brother died at his hands!" Tang Xiong's expression changed, and looked at Fang Yuan properly for the first time.
414
415Fang Yuan shook his numb arm, his expression was still indifferent; this result wasn't beyond his expectation.
416
417He possessed the strength of two boars and a crocodile, there was also some increase to his strength due to using brown bear innate strength Gu these days. And Tang Xiong, he only possessed the strength of two bears.
418
419Grand bear Gu!
420
421Tang Xiong roared, the muscles on his body expanded visibly and his body size grew by a fold; he temporarily gained the strength of a bear.
422
423Bear palm Gu!
424
425A ball of yellow light covered his palms and soles. After the light dispersed, his hands and feet increased in size by over three times; turning into thick and enormous bear palms.
426
427Whooshh!
428
429He jumped with ferocious strength, next, he waved his right palm smashing at Fang Yuan.
430
431The strong wind produced from his motion sent Fang Yuan's clothes fluttering before the bear palm even hit him.
432
433Fang Yuan was still calm, he clenched his left palm into a fist and struck directly at the bear palm.
434
435Fist and palm struck, producing a muffled sound. It was a draw.
436
437However, following immediately, Tang Xiong's arm swept horizontally and another palm also came smashing over.
438
439Fang Yuan used offence against offence; bang bang bang, fists and palms struck each other multiple times, the wind was screaming from their attacks.
440
441The audience revealed astonished expressions when they saw Fang Yuan equally matched as he attacked Tang Xiong head-on.
442
443'This youngster has some skills to be able to duke it out with Tang Xiong!"
444
445"What was his name again?"
446
447"This is a tough nut, Tang Xiong is in trouble. Grand bear Gu has a time limit, and once the effect disappears, he will be disadvantaged."
448
449However, right at this moment!
450
451A fierce bear's roar resounded throughout the battle stage.
452
453A phantom image of a black bear appeared behind Tang Xiong; it opened its bloody mouth and roared towards the skies.
454
455Beast Phantom!
456
457Tang Xiong got lucky and was able to unleash the beast phantom.
458
459The smack that should have been extremely normal, now had the strength of a bear!
460
461Fang Yuan could not dodge in time and hurriedly put up his arms to stiffly block it.
462
463Boom.
464
465With a huge bang, he was sent flying, the white light armor on his body flickered rapidly before dimming.
466
467His arms were numb and would not be usable for some time.
468
469He did his best to maintain his balance in midair; he twisted his waist and landed on the ground on his feet.
470
471The moment he landed, he activated the canopy Gu; the white light armor appeared once more, but this time it looked weak and transparent, its defense had decreased by a lot.
472
473"That is a bear strength phantom, Tang Xiong has flared up!"
474
475"Bear strength specializes in smacking, it is normal for the bear strength phantom to appear since Tang Xiong has already attacked so many times."
476
477"The situation was still in deadlock, but with the bear strength phantom, that kid's momentum is destroyed. Tang Xiong holds the upper hand now."
478
479"According to the previous statistics, Tang Xiong can use the bear strength phantom five times on average in every fight. If that kid has no way to deal with it, he will definitely be defeated."
480
481Outside the battle stage, the audience kept on making a commotion with their comments.
482
483The appearance of a bear strength phantom meant the true battle was starting, and it roused the audience's passion.
484
485"I have the strength of two boars and a crocodile; boar strength is good at charging attacks and crocodile strength is good at bite attacks, but I have yet to acquire the bear strength. I can't bring out the beast phantom by using my fists or palms, moreover the canopy Gu is not good at defending against close combat attacks, and will likely be destroyed by one or two more attacks from the bear strength phantom."
486
487Fang Yuan's thoughts flashed through and he decided to change his battle tactics.
488
489Jumping grass.
490
491He willed, and a spring like grass soon grew out from his soles then pierced through his boots.
492
493Just as Tang Xiong was charging at him, Fang Yuan stamped on the ground and leapt far away like a frog.
494
495At the same time, his left palm swiped at Tang Xiong's direction.
496
497A scarlet colored moonblade immediately shot out of his palms and struck Tang Xiong; the defensive light on his body flickered for a while.
498
499Blood moon Gu might not have high offensive power, but it was a rank three Gu after all.
500
501Tang Xiong was distracted for a moment before he pounced upon Fang Yuan again.
502
503Fang Yuan used the same trick again, throwing scarlet moonblades from afar; he had changed his battle tactics and didn't engage Tang Xiong in close combat.
504
505Tang Xiong had no choice but to use his movement Gu and chase after Fang Yuan.
506
507Fang Yuan kept on attacking and retreating. It was not that Tang Xiong didn't have long range attacking methods, but they were many times weaker than his close combat power and simply could not threaten Fang Yuan.
508
509Tang Xiong growled repeatedly in anger, and tried to provoke Fang Yuan by cursing at him; the audience also made booing noises since they wanted to see intense close combat.
510
511However, how could Fang Yuan be so easily provoked?
512
513He did not have a complete set of Gu worms and had yet to make close combat his forte. Even the long range attacks were forcefully improvised by him.
514
515Time passed by, both their primeval essences continually fell.
516
517Fang Yuan's advantage became clearer; he possessed light silver primeval essence of rank three initial stage, while Tang Xiong only had B grade aptitude and red steel primeval essence.
518
519Despite the strength path Gu Masters' advantage in consuming very little primeval essence, they could not last forever.
520
521By the time Fang Yuan's blood moon Gu made five to six wounds on Tang Xiong's body, the latter had no choice but to admit defeat since his healing Gu was not very good and blood kept on flowing out of the wounds.
522
523"Just wait, one day, I will smack you into minced meat!" Tang Xiong covered his wounds and walked out of the stage.
524
525He came with the aggressiveness of the devil but was leaving with a pale face, his steps light and weak.
526
527"To think fourth inner city's Tang Xiong was defeated!"
528
529"What is that Gu? It could form blood red moonblades and blood kept on flowing out of the wounds it inflicted, I have never seen such a Gu before."
530
531"This kid is not one to trifle with, he will advance to fourth inner city's battle stage before long."
532
533Winner takes it all; most of the audience focused on Fang Yuan.
534
535Fang Yuan received his third victory, and according to the rules, he took that grand bear Gu from Tang Xiong.
536
537This was the most valuable Gu in Tang Xiong's possession. With this Gu gone, Tang Xion only possessed the strength of two bears, his battle strength decreased by thirty percent and there was no need to worry about him now.
538
539However, Fang Yuan was not happy.
540
541The legendary Gu was not in the stellar stone used as a leg support, then where was it?
542
543Was there another piece of stone used as a leg support?
544
545However, when Fang Yuan went back to the gambling den, the foot of that counter was already restored.
546
547Maybe, it was not that gambling den?
548
549Fang Yuan inwardly shook at the thought; stellar stone used to support counter in the rock gambling zone, only this gambling den fulfilled this condition.
550
551"Without the legendary Gu, I won't have any advantage in walking on the strength path. Strength path had prevailed since ancient times, but now it is just a shadow of its previous glory. If I want to walk on the strength path without the legendary Gu, at the very least I will need an ancient strength path inheritance. Unfortunately, I only have memories of three ancient strength path inheritance, of which one is at Eastern Seas and another at Central Continent."
552
553"The third one is at Southern Border, but has already been occupied and exploited by Wu Clan for several years now. Now that I recall it, even Empress Wu Ji of Wu Clan walked the strength path. And because of this ancient inheritance, the Wu Clan was able to sit on the throne of Southern Border's number one force."
554
555Of course, this throne was only referring to the mortal realm. Rank six Gu immortals were at a level that crossed the ordinary and could not be calculated in this.
556
557Fang Yuan continued to secretly investigate the next seven to eight days without any results.
558
559"Sigh, only one clue remains now, I can only give up if that doesn't work." Fang Yuan thought, he was not someone who would waste time on an unsolvable problem.
560
561This final clue was Li Ran — the protagonist who obtained the legendary Gu in Fang Yuan's previous life.
562
563Chapter 282: A flash of inspiration Gu
564
565
566
567Although Fang Yuan had the purple thorn token, he did not dare to investigate this openly.
568
569But in his memory, Li Ran also participated in the battle stage. After obtaining the legendary Gu, he won his way up and swept the battle stage.
570
571This made it easier.
572
573Fang Yuan still had the once per month enforced challenge unused, thus, he came to the secret reception area using it.
574
575There were three people who were named Li Ran among the ones who had signed up.
576
577Two males and one female.
578
579Eliminating the female since Li Ran was a male in the rumors.
580
581The remaining two, one was an old man around sixty years old, slightly famous. With rank three cultivation, he had gone up to third inner city's battle stage a few years ago, but his body was getting worse as the years went, falling back to fourth inner city eventually. This was obviously not the Li Ran Fang Yuan wanted to find either, since Li Ran in his memories had a tough life.
582
583The other is a middle aged man, over fifty years old. With rank two cultivation, he had arrived in Shang clan city for around ten years, but had remained at the fifth inner city battle stage. He loved gambling, and lived a difficult life. He had married and bore children in Shang clan city, but the couple did not get along and separated.
584
585Fang Yuan secretly investigated, and found that this person was the one he saw at the gambling den.
586
587Tailing him for several days, Fang Yuan found that this Li Ran lived from day to day, sometimes, after eating today, he could not afford food the next day.
588
589But this did not mean he had no capabilities.
590
591He relied on the primeval stones he earned in fifth inner city battle stage to survive.
592
593Fang Yuan investigated his battle records, he won more than he lost.
594
595According to logic, he should not be living such a life. But this person loved to eat, gamble and visit prostitutes, he spent his money without restraint. In order to gamble, he would even use all the primeval stones he has, such that for the next half a month, he would have to borrow money from people, and eat the cheapest food possible to survive.
596
597Similarly, in order to have a feast, he would go to the highest grade restaurant, and spend most of the money he had. He even ate without paying, and still owed several restaurants money now.
598
599"This person must be the owner of the legendary Gu in my previous life. But he could not control his desires, thus even with the legendary Gu, what could he do? No wonder he was like a shooting star, going missing soon after his fame." Fang Yuan shook his head secretly.
600
601"He obtained the legendary Gu in my previous life, would he get it again now? It is not possible for me to continue tailing him for long. The day where he finds the legendary Gu is nearing. Am I truly not fated to receive this Gu?" Fang Yuan frowned.
602
603These days, Fang Yuan spent a lot of time and effort in tailing Li Ran. If he spent this time on cultivating, he might achieve greater success.
604
605Most importantly, Fang Yuan had no confidence of whether he would gain anything from doing this.
606
607And if he continued, he might get found out. Thankfully, Wei Yang was a busy man, only coming over to watch when Fang Yuan had a battle, if not, Fang Yuan would not have the opportunity to tail Li Ran.
608
609If Wei Yang found him doing this, how would Fang Yuan explain himself?
610
611The greatest suspicion now was, why was the legendary Gu not inside the stellar stone, this did not match with the rumors!
612
613Fang Yuan could not understand, this was too unimaginable! All the elements were present, but the Gu was nowhere to be found.
614
615It could just be Fang Yuan's overwhelmingly suspicious nature, but he found this Li Ran very strange. He could not pinpoint what the strangeness was, but it was a feeling, an instinct. It was such a baseless feeling that even Fang Yuan could not be sure of it.
616
617LIke this, after another twenty over days, Fang Yuan fell into deep perplexity. That strange feeling became stronger, but Fang Yuan did not know where it originated.
618
619Li Ran's actions had nothing amiss.
620
621He lived in Shang clan city for nearly ten years, if there was anything wrong with him, outsiders would've known already.
622
623"I am too entrenched into this, and have thought about this too much. At this time, I need an outsider's opinion to inspire myself." Fang Yuan was clear of his situation.
624
625But he only trusted himself, although he made a poison vow with Bai Ning Bing, Fang Yuan did not trust Bai Ning Bing one bit. He only used her to cultivate, since the bone flesh unity Gu was much better than the liquor worm.
626
627Without anyone to help, Fang Yuan could only rely on himself. And he had gotten used to relying on himself, and liked it too.
628
629Thus, he came to the shop: "Shopkeeper, do you have a flash of inspiration Gu?"
630
631Fang Yuan had asked a few shops, they did not have it. Finally, a shop had it, but it was priced at twenty nine thousand primeval stones.
632
633A flash of inspiration Gu, a rank three consumable Gu, gone after one use. Who would spend so much primeval stones to buy this?
634
635But the truth is, many people did.
636
637These people were recipe masters who specialized in creating Gu refinement recipes.
638
639When they got into a bottleneck, and were a step from success, they would choose to use this Gu. Once this Gu was used, it would give them that spark of inspiration that would allow them to successfully create the new recipe.
640
641A recipe's worth is far greater than twenty nine thousand primeval stones.
642
643Thus, a flash of inspiration Gu was a Gu with a lot of demand, if Fang Yuan did not have the purple thorn token, the shop would never sell it to him.
644
645A similar Gu to the a flash of inspiration Gu is the cactus pointer.
646
647But the latter was a Tie clan specialty grass Gu, it was not sold in the market.
648
649Fang Yuan gritted his teeth, buying this a flash of inspiration Gu.
650
651This Gu was like a blue jewel tadpole, small and agile, swimming about and waving its tail.
652
653Fang Yuan activated his primeval essence, and this Gu entered his brain, turning into a white spiritual light, and like lightning, tore across the layers of mystery in Fang Yuan's head.
654
655Fang Yuan's eyes shone with brilliance, finally realizing what the strange feeling was.
656
657"That's right, although this Li Ran's life is a mess, without any control over himself, there exists a pattern among this mess. He goes to the restaurant once every three days, goes to the gambling den twice every seven days, and the brothel once every five days. And every ten days, he would go to a restaurant named 'Fu Tai Xiang He'.
658
659From the messy report, under the influence of the a flash of inspiration Gu, the pattern within was revealed .
660
661This was the strange part.
662
663If a person was truly unrestrained and did not think of what to do, his life would be a complete mess, how could it have such a perfect rhythm?
664
665Three days later, in Fu Tai Xiang He restaurant.
666
667"Clerk, the bill." Li Ran looked away from the window, calling loudly.
668
669"Coming, lord Li Ran, five and a half primeval stones please."
670
671"This is six, no need for change." Li Ran tossed out six primeval stones.
672
673"Thank you lord, take care!"
674
675Dun dun dun...
676
677Li Ran walked down the stairs, and as he walked out of the restaurant, he turned into an alley and gradually vanished under the shadow.
678
679Downstairs, Fang Yuan observed silently, before calling the shop assistant, pointing at Li Ran's seat: "The view here is horrible, I want to sit there instead."
680
681According to his understanding, every time Li Ran came here, he would sit at the window seat, that was indeed strange.
682
683"No problem!" The shop assistant laughed: "It is a man's interest to peek at beauties."
684
685"What?" Fang Yuan's eyebrows raised.
686
687"Hmm, isn't esteemed customer trying to see Qin Yan brothel's number one star, Lady An Yu? Hehe, that seat can directly look into her room, if you're lucky, you can even see her body. That Li Ran earlier, he always sits here to look at her. He always makes me reserve the seat for half a primeval stones." The shop assistant said with a lecherous expression.
688
689"Oh is that so?" Fang Yuan replied curtly, sitting at Li Ran's seat.
690
691Through the window, he could indeed see into the brothel.
692
693Qin Yan brothel had eight storeys, the number one lady An Yu was a rank two Gu Master, having a room at the top floor. She had a great body, and her Gu Master identity could invoke men's conquering desires, rumors say it takes almost ten thousand primeval stones to have her for a night.
694
695With Li Ran's fortune, he could not afford this, but was he really here to peek at Lady An Yu?
696
697Looking at the way he left the brothel, he was not such a man.
698
699Fang Yuan looked outside, there were many restaurants around Qin Yan brothel, why did he choose this one?
700
701If he had a Gu worm to improve his vision, then maybe, but Fang Yuan knew he did not have such a Gu.
702
703At this distance, even if Lady An Yu was there, he would only see a blur image.
704
705"Eh? This is…" Fang Yuan's gaze concentrated on a tofu shop opposite the street.
706
707A pair of mother and son were packing up their stall, ready to go home.
708
709Fang Yuan recognised them, they were Li Ran's wife and son!
710
711"Don't tell me, his real motive was to look at them?" Fang Yuan could not help but think.
712
713He closed his eyes, and the map of the street appeared in his head.
714
715There were better places to peek at Lady An Yu, but to observe this mother and son pair, this was the only spot!
716
717"If he really wanted to look at them, why does he have to do it sneakily? According to my findings, he abandoned them years ago, is he feeling guilty? Strange… if he was guilty, and wanted to show concern for them, he could appear in front of them personally, why does he have to be secretive."
718
719"No, it could be that he was too ashamed to face them. But if he was, why would he not turn over a new leaf? This is really weird, he seems to be a mess, and cannot restrain himself, but his life is actually an orderly mess. This evidently shows he has good control over himself."
720
721Fang Yuan's eyes were eerie as possibilities flashed across his mind.
722
723He chewed on the food, but could not taste them at all.
724
725He felt himself nearing the truth, like a blind man in a room getting close to the door.
726
727All the clues and suspicions flew around in his head like a tornado.
728
729Such a thinking speed, caused his eating action to be greatly slowed.
730
731He slowly put down the chopsticks, raising his wine glass, the wine inside glimmering as it emitted a strong fragrance.
732
733Suddenly, Fang Yuan's black pupils expanded!
734
735The wine glass was raised halfway, and his arm stayed in midair, not moving like a statue.
736
737In his mind, a bolt of lightning struck and exploded.
738
739"So that's why… I finally understand!"
740
741He screamed excitedly in his heart, as a great brilliance flashed across his eyes like lightning.
742
743The mystery involving his last life and current life had finally been solved, all the suspicions were lifted and Fang Yuan found the answer he wanted!
744
745At the same time, he 'found' the legendary Gu he lost!
746
747Chapter 283: Got it
748
749
750
751"Wu Ran, if we ask you to sacrifice your future for the clan, are you willing to do it?"
752
753"I am willing!"
754
755...
756
757"Wu Ran, if we ask you to sacrifice your reputation for the clan, are you willing to do it?"
758
759"I am willing!"
760
761...
762
763"Wu Ran, if we ask you to sacrifice your life for the clan, are you willing to do it?"
764
765"I am willing!"
766
767...
768
769"I was right about you, Wu Ran. From your grandfather, father, and then you, you were all loyal Wu clan subjects! Now, the clan has a mission for you, this mission would need you to sacrifice your future, your reputation, and maybe even your life."
770
771"Lord clan leader, I am willing to do it for the clan!"
772
773...
774
775In the darkness, Wu Ran opened his eyes.
776
777"Huff…" He breathed out slowly, sitting up from his bed, muttering: "I dreamed again."
778
779This dream was not fake, but originated from the deepest part of his memory.
780
781'Li Ran' is his fake name, his real name is 'Wu Ran'.
782
783The surname Wu, bore great significance in southern border. It represented the number one overlord in the southern border, Wu clan!
784
785Eleven years ago, Wu clan leader Empress Wu Ji gave an audience to Wu Ran, and assigned him a secret mission —
786
787Making his way into Shang clan's higher up level!
788
789For this, he changed his name, and roamed the wilderness for three years before settling in Shang clan city.
790
791He laid low for eight whole years.
792
793"It has been eight years, an entire eight years. Wu clan's clansmen have mostly forgotten me by now huh? Wu Ran is dead, in this world, only Li Ran remains."
794
795Li Ran sighed in his heart.
796
797He had been lurking for too long. So long that he almost forgot his own name.
798
799Here, he wore a mask, living for eight years, pretending to be a libertine, an ordinary Gu Master of the lowest social level. Even to his beloved wife, he did not say a thing.
800
801During this period, he only left once every half a year to contact Wu clan. It had always been a one-sided contact, hiding all traces to the limit.
802
803Until a year ago, the agent informed him that the clan was going to use him. His excitement then could not be expressed in words!
804
805"After eight years, they have finally activated it, everything will be different now!" Li Ran exclaimed. He willed, and a Gu appeared from his storage.
806
807This fossil was cube shaped, like a brick shining with star light on its surface.
808
809This was a stellar stone.
810
811If Fang Yuan was here, he would find that this rock was very similar to the rock used as a leg support in the gambling den.
812
813Li Ran caressed this fossil gently, frowning slightly.
814
815As a spy, he spent ten years lurking in the city, creating a perfect background for himself. It would definitely gain Shang clan's trust.
816
817But trust is not enough, he needed ability that surpasses the ordinary man, so that he can dominate the battle stage. Only then would Shang clan recruit him, and make him into an external clan elder like Wei Yang, thus gaining authority in Shang clan.
818
819This 'ability' had to appear naturally, and it cannot be too abrupt.
820
821Thus, Wu clan leader Empress Wu Ji chose a Gu worm for him personally.
822
823This was a Gu that possessed a legendary tale.
824
825Obtained from an ancient strength path inheritance, it is an almost extinct Gu in the current world, it was extremely rare!
826
827With this Gu, Li Ran can emerge from his slumber and dominate the battle stage.
828
829As to the method of 'obtaining' this Gu, to avoid suspicion, Wu clan had made preparations.
830
831That is, gambling rocks.
832
833Luck is unpredictable, and an ancient Gu being sealed within a fossil was completely normal.
834
835The demonic Gu Master Wei Shen Jing was a subordinate of Empress Wu Ji. Creating a fake scrap grade fossil was as easy as pie, no one would be able to discern it.
836
837Li Ran spent some effort too.
838
839To make sure people believed this was a fossil from the gambling den, and not his own, he chose a gambling rock that was used as leg support in the gambling den.
840
841This rock was there for many years, people walked about and never noticed it.
842
843Li Ran had communicated with Wu clan, asking Wei Shen Jing to create a similar stellar stone.
844
845Later in his plan, he would swap this rock with the stellar stone in his hand without anyone noticing. He was a Gu Master, after observing for half a year, he knew when was the perfect time to swap the stones without anyone realizing.
846
847When he finally opens the stellar stone, the entire gambling den would testify for him, that it was completely due to luck.
848
849After he obtains this Gu, he would turn over a new leaf, and start the story of a prodigal son. He would rise up, find his wife and child, and become an external clan elder of Shang clan. He would complete his mission, and bring his wife and child back to Wu clan, where they belong.
850
851Thinking of his wife and son, Li Ran felt extremely guilty.
852
853He loved his wife deeply, she is so kind, so strong willed.
854
855At the same time, as a father, he would love to give everything good in this world to his son.
856
857He was only making use of her at the start, but as time went on, their relationship deepened, and he could not stop loving her. After their son was born, his love for them only grew. But eventually, because of his mission and secret identity, he had to temporarily leave them.
858
859"You must hate me now, I've disappointed you too much. But it is alright, soon, soon. I have been deployed, I can bring you happiness!"
860
861Li Ran gripped his fists, his eyes shining with determination.
862
863Tomorrow, he would go to the battle stage, and engage in a battle. The day after, he would bring this stellar stone to the gambling den, and perform his life changing show.
864
865"I had planned to use that stone as a cover, but life is hard to predict, someone actually chose it. Heh, that idiot, choosing a scrap grade stellar stone. But… tomorrow, I will have to be an idiot too."
866
867Li Ran laughed, keeping the stellar stone back into his storage Gu.
868
869Although there was some changes to his plans, it was still fine. He had planned for such a small accident anyway.
870
871He laid down once more, and soon, fell into deep sleep.
872
873This time, he did not have any dreams.
874
875On the second day, he felt great, energetic and full of hope.
876
877He felt that he was like a tourist walking in a dark cavern. After a long journey, he finally saw the light ahead, the exit of the cavern!
878
879Eight years of enduring, everything would become so wonderful!
880
881Everything would definitely become perfect!
882
883With such a belief, he arrived at the battle stage.
884
885He had gotten information of the opponent this time, a rank two peak stage Gu Master often seen in fifth inner city's battle stage, he was a familiar face.
886
887Even the weakest Gu Master, if they can roam in the battle stage without giving up, they have the ability to hold their own.
888
889Li Ran did not look down on his opponent, the Gu Li Ran currently had were quite weak and not considered high quality. He had to conceal himself as well, unable to fight fiercely, thus, this battle could go either way.
890
891Indeed, as they fought, it was as Li Ran predicted.
892
893From probing to fighting, the two were evenly matched, at a stalemate.
894
895The battlefield was ravaged, and the few spectators gasped at the scene.
896
897Suddenly, Li Ran's eyes shone brightly.
898
899A chance!
900
901He found a weak point of his opponent, and was about to attack.
902
903Suddenly, his heart hurt, and his body stiffened; the counter attack from his opponent sent him flying.
904
905Li Ran was heavily injured, groaning in pain. His body flew more than ten steps back, until he stopped himself.
906
907A trace of blood fell from his mouth.
908
909However, the severity of his injuries was on par with the shock and fear in his heart right now!
910
911"My flowerbud Gu, my flowerbud Gu! How did it lose connection with me? The stellar stone is inside it!!"
912
913At the same time, at Li Ran's residence.
914
915The bed was flipped over, showing a secret compartment.
916
917Fang Yuan stood beside it, holding a flowerbud Gu in his hand.
918
919This Gu was rank two, used to store items. It was shaped like a flower, light blue in color but was crystal in material, shining clearly under sunlight.
920
921Although it was Li Ran's Gu, with the Spring Autumn Cicada's aura, Fang Yuan instantly refined it.
922
923Fang Yuan's mind went into the Gu, and saw many things inside. A large sack of rice, some daily necessities, a poor quality block of compressed tea, thirty to forty primeval stones and a few fossils.
924
925"This is it!" Fang Yuan's heart trembled, as he activated his primeval essence, and a black light flew out of the flowerbud Gu.
926
927The black light landed in Fang Yuan's palm, turning into a stellar stone.
928
929It looked extremely ugly, squarish and resembled a brick, almost the same as the leg support rock.
930
931The moment the stellar stone appeared, the entire world seemed to have went silent.
932
933Fang Yuan's pupils expanded.
934
935Thump thump… thump thump…
936
937His heartbeat accelerated, he could clearly hear it.
938
939Including this shabby house and the people walking outside, the surroundings faded away; only Fang Yuan and the stellar stone were left.
940
941He held the heavy stellar stone, and he could feel the cold surface of the rock.
942
943Fang Yuan stared at it passionately, at the same time, his lips curled up as he smiled.
944
945His smile widened, until he opened his mouth and laughed silently!
946
947The legendary Gu, is finally in my hands!!!
948
949He screamed in his heart: "Just as I guessed, this Li Ran is a spy from another clan! When I was at Qing Mao mountain, I used the gambling rock to conceal my liquor worm, he is doing the same thing. No wonder the stellar stone was empty, my previous life's rumor was all part of his act."
950
951"Today, he is going to the battle stage to fight. Whether he concealed his strength or not, according to his previous records, the opponent is around the same level as him, it would be a tough fight. The legendary Gu's stellar stone is so important, it will be tough to fight if he brings it around. With his vigilant nature, he would not hide the stellar stone in the storage Gu and bring it around."
952
953Because if he lost the battle, his opponent would get to take one of his Gu worms.
954
955He knew there was a legendary Gu within the stellar stone, if his opponent took his storage Gu, he would lose the stellar stone!
956
957Chapter 284: One, Two, Five
958
959
960
961"I admit defeat!" Li Ran suddenly half kneeled on the ground, shouting loudly.
962
963His opponent stopped charging forward, holding back his attack as he did not want to drive Li Ran into a corner. There was no benefits in doing that for both parties.
964
965Li Ran spit out a mouthful of blood, standing up shakingly.
966
967In order to quickly leave the battlefield, he purposely took a few hits from his opponent.
968
969The hosting Gu Master walked in front, announcing the results of the battle.
970
971Li Ran was extremely anxious, after taking back the vine information Gu, he quickly left the battle stage after pretending to be dejected.
972
973He half-heartedly bandaged his injuries before rushing back to his house.
974
975"God damn it, how can this happen? What in the world happened, why did I lose connection with flowerbud Gu?"
976
977Li Ran's heart was engulfed by a dark cloud.
978
979The flowerbud Gu was a Gu he had refined, the moment Fang Yuan refined it, he could sense it.
980
981"Only two possibilities exist for such a situation. One is that the flowerbud Gu was destroyed, the second is that someone else refined it! Was I discovered? No, maybe the situation isn't as bad as I imagine, a burglar could've entered my house. F*ck, I have lived in Shang clan city for eight years, I know almost all the thieves there are, why would someone want to steal from that house of mine!"
982
983Li Ran walked quickly, the stellar stone was extremely important, even with his calm nature, he could not help but feel anxious.
984
985He was regretting.
986
987He should've hid the flowerbud Gu at a safer location, and not place it in the secret compartment under his bed.
988
989But the truth is, that was not his fault.
990
991He had gone undercover, to conceal himself, he did not have any friends, and for the last few years, he had not contacted his wife or child. He often went to brothels, gambling dens, restaurants, those areas were full of people and he could not hide anything there.
992
993He could hide it at a pawn shop, but placing so much attention on a scrap grade fossil was too peculiar. When Shang clan investigates in the future,that would create huge suspicion.
994
995In Shang clan city, all sorts of people existed, there were many thief Gu Masters. But to forcefully take over the flowerbud Gu, a rank three Gu is required. The problem is, why would any rank three Gu Master want to steal from a run down place like his?
996
997Li Ran had lurked for eight years, so long that he almost forgot his past. When he hid the flowerbud Gu, he was very confident but now his confidence turned into regret and self blame.
998
999"Hopefully, the situation can still be salvaged!"
1000
1001He returned to his home feeling uncertainty, the door was closed.
1002
1003He opened it, and saw the place was in a mess.
1004
1005"It was a thief!" He suddenly had a thought.
1006
1007Encountering a thief was not scary, as long as his identity was not exposed, all could be salvaged.
1008
1009"That's right!" Li Ran consoled himself: "Every time I contacted Wu clan, it was a one-sided transmission. There are no evidence on me, and that legendary Gu is inside the stellar stone. If it is not opened, who would know the value of it? As long as I find the thief, with my eight years of experience in this city…"
1010
1011As he thought about it, he calmed his emotions, and stopped panicking.
1012
1013"Should I report the case? Using the guards' ability to arrest the thief? No, I should be polite before resorting to brute force, it is best if I can get back the stellar stone peacefully. The city guards can't be trusted too, they would not spend effort for a small fry like me. Maybe I should hire a Tie clan Gu Master?"
1014
1015"Eh? This is…" At this point, he concentrated, and found a Gu after flipping over his bed.
1016
1017Heart sound Gu!
1018
1019This Gu was rank two, green and black in color, around the size of a baby's thumb. It was shaped like a conch shell, one end was large while the other end was tiny, and had a spiral appearance.
1020
1021"Heart sound Gu comes in pairs, it can allow two Gu Masters to speak internally within a hundred steps. Don't tell me… the thief left this behind specially for me?!"
1022
1023Li Ran's eyes shone with hesitation, but he gritted his teeth and placed the heart sound Gu into his ear, like a earplug.
1024
1025"Who are you?" Li Ran injected primeval essence, and activated the heart sound Gu, concentrating his mind and asked.
1026
1027"That question is not important. The important thing is, Li Ran is a fake name right? Hehehe." Soon after, Fang Yuan's voice appeared in Li Ran's head.
1028
1029That instant, Li Ran's pupils shrunk as he looked like he was struck by lightning, stunned on the spot.
1030
1031"Not good, he found out my identity!" Li Ran was horror stricken.
1032
1033The situation had become the worst!
1034
1035But he was after all, a spy for eight years, even with this turn of events, he calmed his mind and spoke to Fang Yuan: "Fake name? What fake name, what do you mean?"
1036
1037He said as he carefully tiptoed, walking around in the shabby house.
1038
1039He next leaned on the wall, looking at the street outside the window.
1040
1041"The heart sound Gu has an effective range, only a hundred steps away at most, he must be near me." He rapidly thought of a solution.
1042
1043To use the heart sound Gu, one has to concentrate in order to speak, ordinary thinking would not be transmitted.
1044
1045But Fang Yuan was well aware of his mental state, lightly laughing: "Don't bother acting Li Ran. I am not your enemy, as long as you cooperate, to express my sincerity, we can meet up."
1046
1047"Meet up?" Li Ran was shocked.
1048
1049Next, Fang Yuan's voice rang in his head: "Now, walk out of your room and turn left around the door."
1050
1051"Why should I listen to you?" Li Ran called out in his mind.
1052
1053Fang Yuan laughed: "Don't try to test how much I know, it is beyond your imagination. I will count to five, consider well."
1054
1055"One." Fang Yuan counted.
1056
1057Li Ran rapidly thought about the situation.
1058
1059Even though the flowerbud Gu was in the thief's hands, they had no evidence that he was a Wu clan spy.
1060
1061He had lurked for eight years, how could there be evidence?
1062
1063"Two." Fang Yuan spoke casually.
1064
1065If at this time, he listened to Fang Yuan, and gets spotted by others, that would be concrete proof that he was a spy.
1066
1067But if he did not listen, what happens to the stellar stone?
1068
1069"Five." Fang Yuan continued to count.
1070
1071Li Ran's mind was thrown into chaos, as he scolded: "God damn, can you even count properly?!"
1072
1073"Hehehe, it seems you have come to a decision." Fang Yuan laughed.
1074
1075Li Ran breathed deeply, his fists clenched tightly, as he gritted his teeth and left the house.
1076
1077He walked out of the door, and arrived at a busy street. Next, he turned left.
1078
1079About fifty steps later, Fang Yuan's voice rang out again: "Turn right, at the third cross junction, turn left."
1080
1081"He can see my movements, he has to be beside me, but who?" Li Ran had sharp vision, like an eagle sweeping the crowd.
1082
1083"I would advise you not to look around, that is not your usual behavior. Hehe, after eight years, you want it all to go down the drain?" Fang Yuan quickly said.
1084
1085"Damn it…" Li Ran gritted his teeth till they squeaked, Fang Yuan's threat made him lower his head as he looked ahead.
1086
1087Following Fang Yuan's instructions, he turned and walked around in circles, until Fang Yuan told him to stop.
1088
1089"Turn around." Fang Yuan quickly followed: "In your vision, there should be a restaurant, go to the third storey, I will be waiting there."
1090
1091Li Ran looked, and his heart jumped.
1092
1093This restaurant, was the one he often came to, Fu Tai Xiang He restaurant.
1094
1095"Don't tell me…" He had a bad feeling in his heart. The thief held so much information about him, it felt like he was stripped bare naked in the winter snow plains.
1096
1097He entered the restaurant.
1098
1099The familiar shop assistant looked at him, enthusiastically calling out: "Lord Li Ran, you are here, please come upstairs!"
1100
1101Li Ran's grim face smiled slightly as he carried his utmost vigilance and ascended the ladder.
1102
1103Halfway through, before the second floor.
1104
1105"Wait." Fang Yuan suddenly said.
1106
1107Li Ran stopped his movement, asking: "What?"
1108
1109"Go downstairs, and out of the door." Fang Yuan instructed.
1110
1111Li Ran snorted, having no choice but to leave.
1112
1113The shop assistant looked at him, feeling confused, quickly asking: "What is the matter lord, are you not eating anymore?"
1114
1115Li Ran waved his hand, asking him to leave, as he walked out of the restaurant.
1116
1117"Opposite you, there is a shop selling baked pancakes, go buy a few." Fang Yuan continued.
1118
1119Li Ran's eyes twitched, but he followed the instructions, buying a few pancakes.
1120
1121"Okay, now return to the third floor of the restaurant." Fang Yuan said again.
1122
1123Li Ran's forehead was popping with veins as he held the pancake and returned to the restaurant.
1124
1125The shop assistant saw him entering again, looking at him weirdly: "Lord Li Ran, if you want to buy pancakes, just call me, I can buy it for you."
1126
1127"Scram." Li Ran shouted, scaring the shop assistant as he shuddered and stopped talking.
1128
1129He got to the third floor, and stopped after the ladder.
1130
1131"Continue, take two to three steps and turn left, you will see me." Fang Yuan instructed.
1132
1133Li Ran followed the instructions, as he walked around a pillar, and finally saw Fang Yuan, sitting at his usual spot.
1134
1135Next, he saw Fang Yuan stretch out his hand, inviting him to the seat. At the same time, he heard in his mind: "Please take a seat."
1136
1137Li Ran did not speak, quietly sitting before Fang Yuan, then staring at him without blinking.
1138
1139The truth is, Fang Yuan's youthful appearance gave him a huge shock.
1140
1141When they conversed, Fang Yuan held him tightly by the collar, he subconsciously pictured the image of Fang Yuan as an unscrupulous middle aged man, or an elderly wearing a hat, hiding his face in the darkness.
1142
1143But the truth was completely the opposite.
1144
1145The voice from the heart sound Gu would always be tuned, it cannot ascertain age, but could easily determine the gender.
1146
1147If he did not see it with his own eyes, Li Ran would never have thought the mysterious man was so young!
1148
1149Fifth inner city's street lights passed the windows and shone on Fang Yuan's face. Although he had a plain look, his eyes were as black as ink, like an abyss, deep and mysterious.
1150
1151Li Ran memorised Fang Yuan's face deep in his heart.
1152
1153Although this was the first time they met, he could swear, he would never forget Fang Yuan's appearance in this life.
1154
1155Because it was due to this young man that all his plans were foiled, and in such a helpless way!
1156
1157Chapter 285: All-out effort Gu
1158
1159
1160
1161On the dinner table, dishes and wine produced amazing fragrance.
1162
1163At the surrounding tables, some people were playing drinking games, some recited poems, others were playing around, it was a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
1164
1165Fang Yuan and Li Ran sat opposite each other, they looked very peaceful, but they were secretly sizing each other up. It was the calm before the storm. Li Ran had deep killing intent in his heart, and although Fang Yuan looked relaxed, he was also wary of Li Ran.
1166
1167"Who exactly are you?" Li Ran asked using the heart sound Gu.
1168
1169"I said before, that is not important. Pass the pancake to me." The first half was spoken internally, while the second sentence was using his mouth.
1170
1171Li Ran was stunned, before pushing the paper bag towards Fang Yuan.
1172
1173Fang Yuan opened the bag, taking out a pancake and biting, nodding: "Now this is the flavor I wanted, I'm so sorry for the trouble."
1174
1175Next, he used the heart sound Gu: "Do you know, I tailed you for several days below this restaurant, I got hungry and bought a pancake, and found it really delicious, want to try?"
1176
1177Li Ran had no mood to try the pancake.
1178
1179He snorted in his heart, asking: "Aren't you afraid I'll poison it?"
1180
1181But on the surface, he smiled and said: "It is no big deal, no trouble at all. Don't forget we have a great relationship."
1182
1183"Hehehe." Fang Yuan laughed out loud, staring at Li Ran with deep meaning, transmitting in his mind: "You think I don't know what Gu you have?"
1184
1185Li Ran smiled more brightly, but his heart sank.
1186
1187"He is trying to remind me! That's right, the enemy is hiding in the shadows while I am out there, I did not even sense him tailing me these few days. He should've known all about me already. If I fight him now, there is a low chance of success, thus he used this pancake to warn me!"
1188
1189Fang Yuan saw Li Ran keeping silent, his eyes shifting around, and knew the warning got through, thus he took out the stellar stone.
1190
1191Li Ran's gaze was attracted, but the stone was quickly taken away.
1192
1193The next moment, Fang Yuan's voice rang in his mind: "Stop pretending, I know the all-out effort Gu is inside this."
1194
1195"WHAT?!" Li Ran's heart shook like he had been struck by lightning.
1196
1197Even if he was a good actor, his expression changed showing fluster and fear.
1198
1199He had been hoping the secret of the stellar stone would not be exposed. After all, it came form Wei Shen Jing, there were no flaws, but to think the matter had worsened to this extent, the other party knew the all-out effort Gu was sealed inside!
1200
1201"Wait, the matter regarding the all-out effort Gu, only a few people know about it. Even I only knew about it soon after receiving it, how did he find out?"
1202
1203"The matter is complex now… I am confident there are no loopholes on my end, thus this should've been exposed on the clan side! Wu clan can send a spy like me here, Shang clan can also send theirs over. The few large clans in the southern border, they infiltrate each other, and there are spies everywhere, they should be clear of each other's matters."
1204
1205"If not, how could he know about the all-out effort Gu? That's right, I was so vigilant, how could I make a mistake and let him get a hold on me, or even suspect me? To think my home clan has been infiltrated to this extent, it is truly scary!"
1206
1207"But maybe that isn't the case, in this world, there are too many special Gu worms…"
1208
1209Fang Yuan left Li Ran ample time to think.
1210
1211He was a smart person, the more he thought, the more suspicious he would get. Subconsciously, he would imagine Fang Yuan to be stronger, more mysterious, and scarier. That would make him feel inferior during the discussion.
1212
1213Fang Yuan played with the stellar stone, after a while, when the time was almost ripe, he continued transmitting his voice: "I want the all-out effort Gu."
1214
1215Li Ran was stunned, not understanding Fang Yuan's deeper meaning.
1216
1217"But I know, if I take this Gu, I would face the wrath and revenge of your clan. Thus, I need your cooperation." Fang Yuan's gaze was eerie.
1218
1219To be able to plot against Shang clan, they had to be an equally large clan. If Fang Yuan took the all-out effort Gu by force, he would be enemies with this clan.
1220
1221This stellar stone was like bait on a hook. If Fang Yuan wanted to eat this bait, he needed to avoid getting stuck on the hook.
1222
1223Li Ran revealed a mocking smile: "You want me to cooperate with you, what a joke, on what basis?"
1224
1225"Based on the fact that I do not want to be enemies with you. Even if I have the purple thorn token, I do not want to be enemies with you, because like you, I have people I want to protect." Fang Yuan said in his mind to Li Ran, as he looked out of the window.
1226
1227At the same time, he said with his mouth: "I heard that shop sells great tofu."
1228
1229Li Ran squinted, his eyes showing a ferocious gaze, screaming in his mind: "Are you threatening me?!"
1230
1231Fang Yuan shook his head, in his eyes, there were clouds drifting, as he showed a complex emotion on his face. Li Ran instantly caught his emotion, there were sadness, pain, helplessness, and fondness.
1232
1233"Are you not clear of your situation?" Fang Yuan said in his mind: "People like us, squeezed between two strong forces, living on the edge everyday, hiding our emotions in the depths of our hearts, and could die anytime. Since we chose this path, we can only continue walking on it. It is all for the clan, we have no regrets. But some people, they are innocent, why should they be implicated into our business, and bear the risks for us?"
1234
1235Li Ran's heart stirred, staring at Fang Yuan in disbelief: "You… are a spy too?"
1236
1237Fang Yuan laughed helplessly, in a bitter tone: "What do you think?"
1238
1239Li Ran saw this smile, and his eyes watered, as he stared tightly at Fang Yuan.
1240
1241Fang Yuan's expression did not have a tint of unnaturalness, as he turned to look outside the window.
1242
1243Li Ran knew he was looking at his own wife and children.
1244
1245Fang Yuan's gaze was so gentle, so dazed, as if he was recalling certain memories.
1246
1247Li Ran did not think he was acting, because this youngster was too young, how could he fake such true emotions? Even at his age, Li Ran could not act to this level.
1248
1249This was his true emotions!
1250
1251Unknowingly, a sense of acceptance towards Fang Yuan grew in his heart.
1252
1253As people in similar situations, they did not need a deep relationship to understand each other.
1254
1255Fang Yuan blinked, looking back at Li Ran, and said: "Li Ran, you have lurked in Shang clan city for eight years. If your identity is exposed, your mission would fail. Your failure may cause you to lose your life, but more importantly, the clan would suffer a loss, and you would let down their expectations."
1256
1257Li Ran clenched his fists.
1258
1259Fang Yuan's words pulled the strings in his heart.
1260
1261He was loyal to the clan, almost religiously. Otherwise, the clan would not have chosen him to be the spy.
1262
1263Fang Yuan said again: "If you fail, your wife would lose her husband. Your son is only five now, he would lose his father. If your identity is exposed, there is a high chance of them dying because of you. You only have one step left to succeed, the position of clan elder is your goal, am I right? But do you think that is the end? No, you will continue lurking, as long as Shang clan existed, the clan would need your spying."
1264
1265Li Ran gritted his teeth.
1266
1267Fang Yuan's words hit the nail on the head.
1268
1269All these things, did he not consider them? He only dared to think about them for a moment before stopping. The more he thought about it, the more pressure he felt, the future was really too long, it would cause him to lose the courage to continue!
1270
1271"Thus, you need alliance mates, brother Li Ran." Fang Yuan continued speaking: "You will not betray your clan, I won't either. You have people you want to protect, so do I. We can cooperate, we need external force to ensure our family's safety. We have to live in order to make contributions to our clans. And the Shang clan is our mutual goal."
1272
1273'Of course, this cooperation is only in private. If our clans want to wage war, you will be the first person I will eliminate." After pausing briefly, Fang Yuan added.
1274
1275Li Ran snorted coldly, Fang Yuan's truthful declaration only made his words more trustworthy.
1276
1277To him, loyalty to the clan is the top priority, next is his family, and then his own life.
1278
1279Fang Yuan's suggestion catered to his three needs.
1280
1281"But can this person be trusted? We are from different forces, cooperation between spies is wishful thinking! Maybe… it is because he is young, and coupled with his intellect and courage, he thought of this method? If I was this young, I'm afraid… I may do the same… or not."
1282
1283The more Li Ran thought about it, the more he felt Fang Yuan's sincerity.
1284
1285Most importantly, he had no other way out! He was completely exposed before Fang Yuan.
1286
1287If Fang Yuan exposed him, his mission would fail, his ten years of hard work would go up in flames, how could he accept this?
1288
1289Human nature is complex, they have this thing called fluke mentality.
1290
1291Li Ran was like someone who was driven to a cliff, with his enemies approaching, he could only jump down. Even if he did not know what was below the cliff, he would still pray that there is a water body below, or maybe he would be saved by some tree branches while descending.
1292
1293He fell into deep silence for a long time.
1294
1295After a few minutes, he used the heart sound Gu: "How can I believe you?"
1296
1297Fang Yuan smiled, taking out a poison vow Gu.
1298
1299...
1300
1301Three days later, Fang Yuan opened the all-out effort Gu in the gambling den, causing the entire district to go into chaos.
1302
1303"Did you hear? Someone opened an all-out effort Gu in Lan Chao gambling den!"
1304
1305"Is that really the all-out effort Gu? It is a near extinct ancient Gu, able to summon the beast phantom a hundred percent of the time!"
1306
1307"You guys only knew now? Hehe, I know more than you. This extremely lucky person is called Gu Yue Fang Zheng. I don't know why, but he has a purple thorn token. The all-out effort Gu was not supposed to be his, but was chosen by a Gu Master called Li Ran, but he knocked into Gu Yue Fang Zheng who decided to find problems with him, taking away three fossils from him as compensation. That all-out effort Gu was within those fossils."
1308
1309"Oh dear, he really is unlucky, the all-out effort Gu should've been his!"
1310
1311"This is fate…"
1312
1313"Lan Chao gambling den, no, I have to go take a look!"
1314
1315At once, rumors spread all over Shang clan city.
1316
1317Chapter 286: A Small Test Run
1318
1319
1320
1321"This is the all-out effort Gu?"
1322
1323In the secret room, Wei Yang held this Gu in his hand as he exclaimed, strange light shining in his eyes.
1324
1325All-out effort Gu, it was shaped like a rhinoceros beetle.
1326
1327Now, it was sitting quietly in Wei Yang's palm, its body was almost the size of Wei Yang's palm, and was quite heavy.
1328
1329It was oval in shape, and had a strong armor exoskeleton. There was a strong horn on its head, looking heavy and powerful.
1330
1331It had three pairs of legs, all strong and thick. Its body was dark brown, and glistened with a metallic surface. People only needed one glance to know it was not ordinary.
1332
1333"That's right, this is the rank three all-out effort Gu. Once used, it would summon a beast phantom, able to move according to my will." Fang Yuan was sitting on a cushion opposite Wei Yang, as he explained.
1334
1335Wei Yang breathed in deeply, handing the all-out effort Gu back to Fang Yuan.
1336
1337"At this timing, is it fate? Brother Fang Zheng, are you truly bent on the strength path?" He gave his last attempt.
1338
1339Fang Yuan nodded, not speaking, but his determined expression said everything.
1340
1341Wei Yang sighed again.
1342
1343If previously, he was confident of changing Fang Yuan's mind, at this moment, after obtaining the all-out effort Gu, he knew that Fang Yuan's decision was final, there was no hope in changing it.
1344
1345"Fate is really mystical, obtaining the all-out effort Gu would greatly help you on the strength path. The all-out effort Gu is undoubtedly the core Gu worm in assembling your set. If you are so determined, I shall say no more. But I have one final thing to remind you, just treat it as my nagging."
1346
1347Fang Yuan became serious: "Not at all, please give me your advice!"
1348
1349"Although you have the all-out effort Gu, times are different now. If this all-out effort Gu is your core, you have to ensure its safety. It is only a rank three Gu now, if you want to refine it into rank four or rank five in the future, there is too much danger in refining it if it is not your vital Gu. If the all-out effort Gu is destroyed in the process of refinement, your entire set would collapse without the core. Thus, my first advice to you is to convert it into your vital Gu. Shang clan can help you to achieve this."
1350
1351"To make a set, just one core is not enough, you need several important support Gu. Regarding this, you need to choose carefully, and think ahead. If your choice is wrong, it will not allow you to display the full value of all-out effort Gu. Sigh, actually, during ancient times, when strength path flourished, there were much more Gu worms that complemented the all-out effort Gu. Now, most of them are extinct, if you want to assemble a Gu set, you cannot use ancient methods, but can only explore this yourself."
1352
1353"I have another extremely important matter that you have to take note of. Although you have the all-out effort Gu, you have no corresponding refinement recipe. But thankfully, most of the recipes from the Olden Antiquity Era were passed down. There should be some in certain recipe masters' hands, you have to collect them. If not…"
1354
1355Saying so, Wei Yang hesitated.
1356
1357"You can try your luck in exploring ancient strength path inheritances. Wu clan found such an inheritance several years ago, if you can find one, your future would be set. I really want to see the strength path flourish in your hands!"
1358
1359After saying these things, Wei Yang took his leave.
1360
1361Fang Yuan sent him off, and watched Wei Yang turn into light and fly away.
1362
1363Fang Yuan stood at the door of the secret room, his gaze concentrating.
1364
1365The advice Wei Yang gave, he had considered all of them long ago, and had plans already.
1366
1367He already had a copy of the all-out effort Gu's recipe, obviously from Li Ran.
1368
1369Wu clan provided Li Ran the all-out effort Gu, they naturally gave him the recipe.
1370
1371But this recipe only allowed the rank three all-out effort Gu to reach rank four. Any higher, Fang Yuan needed to find out himself.
1372
1373But in this aspect, Fang Yuan was only rank three initial stage now, in the short run, he had no worries about the rank five refinement recipe.
1374
1375As for what Gu to choose, in order to complement the all-out effort Gu, and become support for the core, Fang Yuan had his plans.
1376
1377He had always been the type to walk one step and plan ten ahead, he was extremely confident.
1378
1379"The strength path Gu set, should use the all-out effort Gu as the core, self-reliance Gu and bitter strength Gu as the support. With a few other Gu worms accompanying, this set of Gu worms can be considered initial success. But to reach greater success, I have to rely on the three kings inheritance."
1380
1381Spending two to three years in Shang clan city, assembling a set of Gu and reach initial success stage.
1382
1383When the three kings inheritance activates, he will use the advantages of rebirth and add in useful Gu worms to cause his Gu set to reach greater success stage.
1384
1385This was Fang Yuan's plans for the near future.
1386
1387"This plan has to be executed perfectly. Because after the three kings inheritance, it would be the righteous demonic battle at Yi Tian mountain, if my battle strength is not high enough then, I would not be able to gather enough benefits for myself. Time, is really tight…"
1388
1389As for the third, his vital Gu.
1390
1391Fang Yuan's vital Gu is Spring Autumn Cicada, this cannot be changed.
1392
1393Then the refinement of the all-out effort Gu would be much more difficult. Since there is a risk to the Gu, the refinement would need to be done extremely carefully.
1394
1395If Fang Yuan was unlucky, and caused the all-out effort Gu to die during refinement, his set of Gu worms would lose their foundation, like a human without a soul.
1396
1397If that happens, the outcome would be disastrous, almost equivalent to Fang Yuan's strength path cultivation being crippled.
1398
1399But, there were ways to ensure the all-out effort Gu survives during refinement even if it was not his vital Gu.
1400
1401Wei Yang did not know because he was a frog in a well.
1402
1403Fang Yuan knew three methods.
1404
1405First method was to head to the "Land of Bu Bai". This was the Bu Bai inheritance, far away in central continent, the sacred land for refinement masters.
1406
1407Secondly, he could use the undefeated hundred battles Gu, when refining Gu, it could ensure a hundred percent success rate.
1408
1409The third was also a Gu, called "green mountain remains". 'As long as the green mountain remains, one need not worry about firewood.' Only by keeping something vital is there a chance for a comeback. Using this Gu, it can protect the core Gu, even if refinement fails and the other Gu are destroyed, the all-out effort Gu will still remain.
1410
1411The land of Bu Bai was too far away, it was impossible to get there. Undefeated hundred battles Gu, an extremely rare rank five Gu even during ancient times, right now it was extinct. "Green mountain remains" was in the hands of several refinement masters, this was a rank four Gu, it was difficult to obtain but there was at least some hope.
1412
1413"There is one undefeated hundred battles Gu in the three kings inheritance. If I can get it, the all-out effort Gu's advancement to rank four would be ensured. Next, I can only think of other ways… now, it is time to replace everything."
1414
1415Fang Yuan had a careful nature, before he obtained the all-out effort Gu, even though he had hundreds of thousands of primeval stones, he did not spend them.
1416
1417Now that it is in his hands, he finally decided to act.
1418
1419He did not need to leave Nan Qiu garden, instead going to the study room and taking out a large number of invitations.
1420
1421Ever since he 'gambled' and won the all-out effort Gu, rumors flew about in Shang clan city, and everyone were acting like cats who saw fish, swarming at Fang Yuan's place.
1422
1423Fang Yuan had the purple thorn token, and attended Shang Yan Fei's clan banquet before, he had a unique identity and no one dared to force him.
1424
1425They had sent all sorts of invitations, but Fang Yuan stayed in his house for several days, not meeting a single guest.
1426
1427Now, Fang Yuan took out the invitations, and saw that a portion were from recipe masters, hoping to meet Fang Yuan and become acquaintances, so that they can borrow the all-out effort Gu for research. A Gu from the Antiquity Era would be great help towards their recipe creation.
1428
1429Another portion were established Gu Masters, holding all sorts of titles, they either wished to spar with Fang Yuan or wanted to exchange Gu worms with him.
1430
1431But mostly, the invitations came from all the famous shops, and all the large clan's Gu Masters, hoping to purchase the all-out effort Gu.
1432
1433Fang Yuan chose a small portion of them, and instructed his servants to send a message to them.
1434
1435Not long after, a group of Gu Masters came running.
1436
1437Fang Yuan met them at the reception hall: "I am not selling the all-out effort Gu, I am meeting everyone here today for other trading purposes."
1438
1439This caused everyone to be disappointed, but some did not give up, only after Fang Yuan's firm attitude did they give up.
1440
1441Three hours later, a few business were settled, and everyone left.
1442
1443Two days later, the Gu worms arrived.
1444
1445Fang Yuan's battle strength surged, but he paid a huge price.
1446
1447Gu worms were seriously too expensive, he spent several hundred thousand primeval stones for them. The old man made of clouds in the primeval elder Gu was already hunching his back as he showed a painful and worried expression, in an extremely pitiful state.
1448
1449Another day later, Fang Yuan stepped into the battle stage.
1450
1451At once, everyone went wild.
1452
1453Outside the battle stage, people were crowding to the point where there was no walking space.
1454
1455His opponent was none other than Li Ran.
1456
1457He stared at Fang Yuan, his expression twisted and his eyes burned with fire, as he screamed: "Gu Yue Fang Zheng, you stole my opportunity, that is extremely despicable! Today, I will take back what belongs to me."
1458
1459"Hmph, who told you to knock into me? I asked for compensation but you refused to pay primeval stones. Those stones covered your debt, you were willing as well." Fang Yuan laughed coldly as he answered.
1460
1461The viewers outside started to discuss among themselves as they became extremely noisy.
1462
1463Fang Yuan and Li Ran's conversation testified the truth behind the rumors these days.
1464
1465"Ahhh!" Li Ran grabbed his hair, screaming to the sky: "Fang Zheng, you tyrant, I was forced by you! I only knocked into you by accident, but you refused to let me go. Today, I will seek justice for myself!"
1466
1467Saying so, Li Ran pounced at Fang Yuan.
1468
1469Fang Yuan snorted coldly, seeing him get close, he willed.
1470
1471Vertical crash Gu.
1472
1473Howl!
1474
1475The winds blew as he took a step, and his body charged forward by fifty steps.
1476
1477Li Ran felt his vision blur as Fang Yuan had already charged up to him.
1478
1479All-out effort Gu.
1480
1481Fang Yuan willed, and light burst forth, forming the phantom image of a wild boar charging in mid air behind him.
1482
1483The wild boar was black and had sharp tusks, showing a fierce expression as the winds blew!
1484
1485"Not good!" Li Ran screamed, dodging.
1486
1487Fang Yuan charged right past him, although Li Ran was not hit head on, his arm was scratched.
1488
1489Next, with a 'crack', his forearm bone broke, and the defensive light on Li Ran's body vanished, as he fell to the ground, unable to get up.
1490
1491"Just one hit!"
1492
1493"Was that the all-out effort Gu?"
1494
1495"That Li Ran is too weak, he is definitely not Fang Zheng's match!"
1496
1497Outside, the spectators exclaimed, expressing their shock.
1498
1499Chapter 287: Reputation Gu
1500
1501
1502
1503Fang Yuan charged for fifty steps before he stopped. He turned around, facing Li Ran, about to launch his second attack.
1504
1505But Li Ran had already raised his hand, shouting loudly: "Wait, no more, I admit defeat!"
1506
1507Once he said so, the surroundings went quiet, before exploding.
1508
1509"What, no more?"
1510
1511"We spent primeval stones to come here and see the all-out effort Gu."
1512
1513"You coward, are you even a man, stand up and fight!"
1514
1515Everyone shouted furiously.
1516
1517Many people were angry and breathed roughly, feeling that their primeval stones were wasted, starting to grumble and scold. But a portion of the people understood Li Ran.
1518
1519"There's no way to win, it is wise to concede."
1520
1521"That hit earlier showed their difference. If they continue, Li Ran's life would be in danger.
1522
1523"This Li Ran is a veteran in the battle stage. With his rich experience, I am not surprised he did that."
1524
1525Clank.
1526
1527A loud ring from the bell, and this match was over.
1528
1529The spectators started to leave the stage, as Fang Yuan took his leave as well.
1530
1531"Fang Zheng, wait first." Li Ran suddenly called, stopping him.
1532
1533Fang Yuan frowned, turning around and looking at him: "What do you want?"
1534
1535Everyone's footsteps halted.
1536
1537"Fang Zheng, you are indebted to me, but now you hurt and injured me, this is repaying kindness with vengeance, you have to compensate me!" Li Ran shouted.
1538
1539These words were shameless, he wanted to challenge Fang Zheng without knowing their difference, now that he got injured, how could he say his opponent was "repaying kindness with vengeance".
1540
1541Many people heard this and snorted, feeling disdain towards Li Ran.
1542
1543Challenging Fang Yuan forcefully, that was because he could not take it lying down, many people understood his emotions. But after losing, he still continued to pester Fang Yuan, that was going overboard.
1544
1545Fang Yuan shook his head, turning to leave: "Your brain was damaged by my attack too?"
1546
1547Many people jeered and laughed.
1548
1549But Li Ran struggled to get up, shouting at Fang Yuan: "Fang Zheng, I know your personality! You distinguish kindness and hatred clearly, the acclaimed 'a droplet received in need will be repaid with a whole spring, a spark of hatred will result in the burning of an entire forest!' Shang Xin Ci showed you a little kindness and you risked your life to protect her, escorting her to Shang clan city. Shang clan leader wanted to reward you but you rejected all of them, saying that your kindness had been repaid. The Shang clan leader even had to force you to accept the purple thorn token!'
1550
1551"Fang Zheng, to be honest, I have done you a favor. If I did not choose that stellar stone, would you be able to get that all-out effort Gu? No! Hehe, nevermind if it is another person, but I know you, I understand you. Although you are oppressive and tyrannical, you have to repay kindness or you will be unable to sleep. Isn't that so? Think about it, you owe me a favor, can you sleep tonight?"
1552
1553"Heh, that is because you have never seen Fang Yuan's true colors!" Among the crowd, Bai Ning Bing heard Li Ran's words and snorted coldly.
1554
1555Fang Yuan obtaining the all-out effort Gu had made her curious.
1556
1557After all, Fang Yuan was her rival.
1558
1559Suddenly, Fang Yuan stopped in his steps.
1560
1561As everyone watched, he turned around and faced Li Ran, with a serious expression.
1562
1563"If you put it like that, it seems I owe you a favor. But firstly, it was because you offended me, and second, I cannot give the all-out effort Gu away. What do you want me to do?"
1564
1565Fang Yuan's words made everyone who was leaving stop their steps and observe their conversation again.
1566
1567Bai Ning Bing gasped in her heart, feeling shocked.
1568
1569"Although the all-out effort Gu is rank three, it originated from the Olden Antiquity Era, it is considered unique now, its true value cannot be estimated. Give me a hundred thousand primeval stones, and your favor will be considered repaid!" Li Ran thought about it and said.
1570
1571"Is this Li Ran stupid?"
1572
1573"He dares to ask for such a ridiculous sum, such stupidity, sigh…"
1574
1575"Making such a request, he is so shameless!"
1576
1577Everyone shook their heads, feeling disappointed at Li Ran's shamelessness.
1578
1579Fang Yuan thought about it, shaking his head.
1580
1581"A hundred thousand primeval stones is insufficient, I'll give you two hundred thousand, that would put me at ease." Saying so, he waved his hand and summoned the primeval elder Gu, pouring all the primeval stones out.
1582
1583On the floor of the battle stage, a mountain of primeval stones appeared.
1584
1585"This is eighty thousand, that's all I have now. I'll give you the rest when I have money!"
1586
1587"What?!" Fang Yuan's words sent everyone into shock.
1588
1589"He actually gave it? And… and even raised it to two hundred thousand!" Everyone was tongue-tied.
1590
1591"Did I see wrongly?! Although this Li Ran did not obtain the all-out effort Gu, getting so much primeval stones as compensation is almost as good." Everyone blinked, seeing those primeval stones, they almost drooled.
1592
1593"This Fang Zheng is really…" Many people saw Fang Yuan leave and felt weird in their hearts, not sure of what to say.
1594
1595Although they did not manage to see the power of the all-out effort Gu, hearing Li Ran and Fang Yuan's conversation made the trip worth it.
1596
1597News about this battle quickly circulated, and spread around Shang clan city.
1598
1599The fact that Fang Yuan had a purple thorn token also circulated, resulting in people who had ill intentions to vanish without a trace.
1600
1601Many people started to be envious of Li Ran, while others also felt doubt towards Fang Yuan's promise of two hundred thousand primeval stones.
1602
1603But no matter what, Fang Yuan's 'distinguish kindness and hatred' reputation also became well-known.
1604
1605Back at Nan Qiu garden.
1606
1607"Do you really intend to give that Li Ran two hundred thousand primeval stones?" Bai Ning Bing asked suspiciously.
1608
1609This was not Fang Yuan's style at all.
1610
1611"Of course." Fang Yuan replied curtly. He was obviously not going to tell Bai Ning Bing that this was his secret agreement with Li Ran. Li Ran would act with Fang Yuan, and tell him the refinement recipe, while Fang Yuan compensates him two hundred thousand primeval stones.
1612
1613Bai Ning Bing was solemn for a while, not believing him, then laughing coldly: "Two hundred thousand just for a reputation, is it worth it?"
1614
1615Fang Yuan snickered: "Have you never heard the story of reputation Gu?"
1616
1617Bai Ning Bing's gaze was hesitant: "What are you trying to say?"
1618
1619"Reputation is a bridge, one that allows people to cross through the abyss. Reputation is a travel token, more important and precious than the purple thorn token, it allows one to move about with ease. Two hundred thousand cannot even buy the purple thorn token, yet i spent that amount to obtain this reputation. This is the best trade in the world. Hahaha." Fang Yuan laughed.
1620
1621Bai Ning Bing snorted, but thinking that he had a precognitive Gu, she chose to believe him for now.
1622
1623Regarding the reputation Gu's story, it originated from the legends of Ren Zu…
1624
1625One time, Verdant Great Sun got very drunk, when he woke up, his head hurt and he forgot all that happened when he was drunk. He did not know why he was trapped on a lone hill, one which was surrounded by a bottomless abyss.
1626
1627The abyss was filled with spiral winds, pale green color, this was the 'usual wind'. The winds blew dust into the air, those were the dark yellow color 'mortal dust'.
1628
1629Verdant Great Sun's heart sank, because he recognised that this was the ordinary abyss. No living being had ever managed to fly past it. He was trapped on this lone hill, unable to get out; he would die of starvation eventually.
1630
1631Thankfully, there was a forest on the lone hill. Verdant Great Sun was hungry, and came into this forest to find fruits to eat. But this forest was very strange, the black soil was like a swamp, smelling extremely pungent. The trees had no leaves, and the branches looked like strange claws. But when the wind blew, there was the sound of leaves moving in the wind.
1632
1633Verdant Great Sun could not find food, and fell into despair, knowing he was going to die soon.
1634
1635A few days later, he was so hungry he could not move, leaning on the tree trunk as he laid on the ground.
1636
1637He eventually fell unconscious.
1638
1639In his slumber, he could hear many voices talking.
1640
1641"Hey look, this person finally passed out."
1642
1643"Mm, as I expected, he's finished."
1644
1645"Actually, it is possible to leave the ordinary abyss, you just need the reputation Gu."
1646
1647"Reputation Gu is at the center of the forest, hidden under a rock. Too bad he doesn't know, hahaha…"
1648
1649"Sshhh, speak softer, it will be bad if he hears us."
1650
1651"It's okay, it's okay, he has fainted already, before long, the black soil will bury him, and turn him into nutrients for us trees."
1652
1653Hearing this, Verdant Great Sun jolted awake.
1654
1655It turns out this forest is Xi Yu forest, what he had thought was leaves brushing in the wind turned out to be the whispers of the trees.
1656
1657After hearing the information, Verdant Great Sun walked to the center of the forest, lifted the rock, and obtained the reputation Gu.
1658
1659Reputation Gu was like a chrysanthemum, its petals were golden yellow, emitting a fragrance.
1660
1661Reputation Gu said to Verdant Great Sun: "Young man, thank you for lifting the rock, and saving me. To repay you, I have decided to help you get across this ordinary abyss."
1662
1663Reputation Gu told Verdant Great Sun the method to use it.
1664
1665Verdant Great Sun was overjoyed, arriving at ordinary abyss, and placed the reputation Gu in his mouth, shouting as loud as he could...
1666
1667The strange thing was, no matter how loud he shouted, there was no sound, but the vibrations in the air caused the ordinary abyss to shake, as the commotion got bigger, it was like an earthquake. The air was even filled with a brilliant fragrance.
1668
1669Verdant Great Sun did not feel anything weird, as he had known from the reputation Gu: Reputation itself has no voice, but it can spread wide and create tremors.
1670
1671As he shouted, a golden bridge appeared in midair, but the bridge's length was limited, there was still a long distance to the other side.
1672
1673Verdant Great Sun was too hungry, too tired, after trying several times, the effect continue to diminish, and his chance for salvation seemed dim.
1674
1675Reputation Gu sighed: "Sigh, you have not eaten anything in a while, even though you have a breath left in your stomach, it is too little. From your diaphragm, it has to go through your stomach, chest, throat, and finally your mouth, the journey is too long, we have to reduce it, here, place me between your two buttcheeks.
1676
1677Verdant Great Sun did as instructed.
1678
1679Reputation Gu landed near his private part, and turned into a chrysanthemum cave.
1680
1681"Okay, you can start shouting again." Reputation Gu said.
1682
1683Verdant Great Sun forced that last breath of his, out of this hole, out of his body.
1684
1685Prrrrrrrrt—
1686
1687In his daze, Verdant Great Sun heard a loud sound. The air was filled with an unimaginable stench, but that golden bridge became majestic and large, stretching over a thousand miles, reaching the other side.
1688
1689A shitty reputation compared to good reputation, is always easier to obtain and maintain.
1690
1691Verdant Great Sun quickly crossed the bridge, leaving the ordinary abyss and reaching the other side, saving his own life.
1692
1693Chapter 288: The Crux of Strength Path Cultivation
1694
1695
1696
1697Eight days later.
1698
1699Nan Qiu garden.
1700
1701At the small square, the ground paved with starry stones shone under the starlight.
1702
1703Fang Yuan stood in the square with his hands folded, legs slightly open and his eyes closed. His breathing was deep and long.
1704
1705In front of him were a dozen stone pillars.
1706
1707Every stone pillars were twenty feet thick, and were dark and rigid. The stone pillars were spaced apart so that it almost covered the small square.
1708
1709Whish...
1710
1711Fang Yuan let out a breath of turbid air and suddenly opened his eyes.
1712
1713At that very moment, a ray of lightning seemed to flash through the void!
1714
1715Dash!
1716
1717He took large steps forward and in a few steps reached a stone pillar.
1718
1719His steps stopped, he bent his waist before swinging his arms vigorously and punching at the pillar.
1720
1721Bang.
1722
1723With a dull thud, the stone pillar shook, stone fragments flew about and a spherical dent appeared on the pillar.
1724
1725Again.
1726
1727Fang Yuan held his breath then used his fists and palms to attack in turns. Not only that, he also used kicks, flying kicks, elbow strikes, knee strikes, shoulder bash… every part of his body became sharp, strong weapons.
1728
1729Bang bang bang….
1730
1731The dull sounds continued along with the stone pillar's continuous shaking and the stone fragments scattering in the air.
1732
1733Fang Yuan attacked like a storm and gale in one breath, his attacks continuous and endless.
1734
1735Within seconds, the stone pillar was reduced to half, like a small tree in a storm.
1736
1737Crack.
1738
1739Fang Yuan whipped his leg horizontally as a clear sound echoed; the stone pillar that was already hanging by a thread could not endure it anymore and broke into two, falling into the ground.
1740
1741Fang Yuan relaxedly retracted his leg, his breath was only slightly affected and droplets of sweat seeped out of his forehead.
1742
1743He looked at the ground.
1744
1745The appearance of the two broken parts of the stone pillar were changed beyond recognition; their surfaces were filled with dents, results of Fang Yuan's punches and kicks.
1746
1747"Indeed, it is difficult to bring out the beast strength phantom without using all-out effort Gu, and with just normal attacks."
1748
1749Ha!
1750
1751He shouted and in two large strides, he reached the nearest stone pillar.
1752
1753His right palm smacked heavily towards the stone pillar.
1754
1755Growl!
1756
1757A brown bear phantom image suddenly appeared in mid air behind Fang Yuan. It was quite plump, and its mouth was filled with dense white sharp fangs. At the same time as Fang Yuan, it raised its right palm and smacked, the movement strikingly similar to Fang Yuan's.
1758
1759In that instant, Fang Yuan felt a sudden surge of strength in his right palm!
1760
1761BOOM.
1762
1763A huge sound thundered at the impact of Fang Yuan's smack on the stone pillar.
1764
1765The stone pillar, which needed two people to wrap around it, immediately broke by the smack, producing a loud sound as it collapsed and formed a small pit on the floor.
1766
1767The countershock immediately struck Fang Yuan and shocked his right palm into numbness.
1768
1769Fang Yuan had been using brown bear innate strength Gu since he bought it and now he mastered it, increasing his strength by the strength of a bear.
1770
1771"I needed to hit the stone pillar dozens of times before I could break it. But after using the all-out effort Gu, I broke it in just one smack…"
1772
1773Fang Yuan clearly perceived the difference.
1774
1775All-out effort Gu was a support type Gu and not an attack type. But once used, it could produce a devastating blow!
1776
1777Fang Yuan's battle strength before and after getting it was like the difference between night and day.
1778
1779Using a support Gu as the core was quite rare. Most of the Gu Masters used support Gu in their Gu set, as an assistance to the core Gu.
1780
1781For instance, Wei Yang used rainbow light Gu, a movement Gu, as the core; the offensive broadsword light Gu as one of the main support and light source Gu as another support. As a support, light source Gu could only decrease the primeval essence expenditure of light type Gu worms.
1782
1783However, the all-out effort Gu was completely capable of filling the core position even as a support Gu. Just from this, one could tell how precious it was.
1784
1785"But… canopy Gu might have impressive defense but it is too rigid. If I change it to golden shield Gu, there should be a clear difference in results." Fang Yuan pondered.
1786
1787During the punching and kicking test just now, he used canopy Gu, otherwise his hands and legs would certainly be destroyed.
1788
1789The effect of force is mutual.
1790
1791Although Fang Yuan's bones were iron bones, his skin, flesh, tendons and blood were all normal. Without the use of canopy Gu, the smack attack just before would have mangled up his flesh and muscles, although his bones would be fine.
1792
1793However, golden shield Gu was temporarily not available.
1794
1795Fang Yuan also did not have money right now.
1796
1797At the start, he had over nine hundred thousand primeval stones, but Bai Ning Bing took half of it. Then, he spent a lot strolling around the rock gambling dens for all-out effort Gu. The expenditure for basic needs along with feeding his Gu worms were rather high especially in Shang Clan's third inner city. Next, he used a lot of primeval stones to change his Gu line-up; eight days ago at battle stage, he gave eighty thousand primeval stones to Li Ran in front of everyone.
1798
1799Now, Fang Yuan not only had no money, he was also in debt. Because, according to the poison vow contract, he still needed to give a hundred and twenty thousand primeval stones to Li Ran.
1800
1801Fang Yuan knew this was a necessary investment.
1802
1803Reputation was second, the important thing was to stabilize Li Ran by showing an attitude of sincere cooperation, despite him already using eating one's words Gu to disperse the poison vow Gu on him several days ago.
1804
1805Li Ran was an unexpected gain for Fang Yuan. There would be traces left behind if he killed Li Ran which would attract Shang Clan's doubts and ruin his plans, so he did not do it.
1806
1807To Fang Yuan, Li Ran was a chess piece which was not easy to use but had its own use. Someday in future, he might be able to obtain the rank five refinement recipe for all-out effort Gu from Wu Clan through Li Ran.
1808
1809Right now, the most important thing was to stabilize Wu Clan through Li Ran.
1810
1811Three days earlier, Li Ran used the emergency contact method to contact the emissary. He expressed that Fang Yuan could be used well. Like this, the chance of Wu Clan taking revenge was small.
1812
1813Fang Yuan possessed purple thorn token which meant Shang Clan was paying attention to him. Fang Yuan was also a rank three Gu Master and his battle strength increased sharply with the all-out effort Gu. If Wu Clan really wanted to retaliate, they would have to send rank three or rank four Gu Masters. Mobilizing these elder level strengths would smash apart the tacit understanding of secret battles between high-tiered clans.
1814
1815The benefit of saving Li Ran was evident here.
1816
1817"Again." Fang Yuan swept away his unorganized thoughts and gave a low shout.
1818
1819He lowered his body, held his arms and with a shift of his mind, five percent of his light silver primeval essence poured into vertical crash Gu.
1820
1821Vertical crash!
1822
1823The Gu's mystical ability immediately and uncontrollably sent his legs rushing forward.
1824
1825Bang bang bang!
1826
1827He dashed forward dozen of steps in a perfectly straight line, continuously knocking down three stone pillars. When he reached the fourth stone pillar, the pillar shook continuously but did not fall down in the end.
1828
1829This was the result of Fang Yuan not using all-out effort Gu.
1830
1831Vertical crash Gu was a movement Gu Fang Yuan bought, its ability was to break through by force.
1832
1833If there were no obstacles, the straight charging momentum could last for fifty steps before it stopped. If there were obstacles, the momentum would last for less than fifty steps.
1834
1835This Gu was more suitable for Fang Yuan compared to jumping grass.
1836
1837Jumping grass's jumping ability came from the Gu worm's strength, while vertical crash Gu's strength came from Fang Yuan's body.
1838
1839As Fang Yuan becomes stronger, the vertical crash Gu's forceful break through ability would also increase. In the battle with Li Ran, Fang Yuan had used vertical crash Gu in combination with boar phantom; the combination was perfect and inflicted heavy injuries to Li Ran!
1840
1841Horizontal charge!
1842
1843Fang Yuan activated a Gu, his whole body immediately charged horizontally like a tyrannical crab, smashing the stone pillars.
1844
1845This was horizontal charge Gu and was similar to vertical crash Gu, except it charged horizontally.
1846
1847Fang Yuan had sold jumping grass and bought horizontal charge Gu and vertical crash Gu as his movement Gu.
1848
1849These two Gu allow the Gu Master to exert force while moving and were extremely suitable for strength path Gu Masters. The movement itself became a means of attack.
1850
1851"When I reach rank four, I can then fuse these two Gu into charging crash Gu and continue using them."
1852
1853This was a long term investment which also indirectly saved money.
1854
1855Next, Fang Yuan alternatively used these two Gu and crashed here and there on the small square, like a wild bull.
1856
1857This time, he multi-tasked.
1858
1859Not only did he use horizontal charge Gu or vertical crash Gu alternatively, he also simultaneously used all-out effort Gu.
1860
1861The stone pillars were sent flying before collapsing fiercely on the ground and producing dull thuds now and then.
1862
1863"Using boar strength phantom can send five stone pillars flying and knock down eight. Using bear strength phantom can send seven pillars flying and knock down five. Using crocodile strength phantom can send three stone pillars flying and knock down four."
1864
1865Fang Yuan carefully experienced these subtle differences.
1866
1867It was clear that boar was suitable for charging and the longer the distance of the charge, better the result. Brown bear possessed formidable strength at first before becoming weaker later. As for the crocodile, it was clearly not suitable method for charging attack.
1868
1869"Right now, all-out effort Gu can only activate the phantom of one Gu. I can't use boar strength phantom and bear strength phantom at the same time. That is to say, my strength of two boars is somewhat wasteful. If it was changed to some other beast strength, they could strengthen other aspects of attacking."
1870
1871"Now I have strength of two boars, strength of a bear and strength of a crocodile; this has reached the limit of what my body can bear. It is time to use steel tendon Gu."
1872
1873Fang Yuan had already bought steel tendon Gu.
1874
1875Steel tendon and iron bones perfectly complemented each other.
1876
1877But steel tendon Gu was different from iron bone Gu. The latter was an expendable type Gu while the former needed to be continuously used for a period of time before it could bring qualitative change to Fang Yuan's tendons, turning them into steel tendons.
1878
1879Fang Yuan called for a servant to clean up the messed up square and returned to his secret room.
1880
1881He did not want to waste even a second and began using steel tendon Gu to reform his body.
1882
1883Three days later, fifth inner city's battle stage.
1884
1885A blue shirt burly man stood in front of Fang Yuan, his breathing was rough and his heart still had lingering fear.
1886
1887"I only crossed five to six moves with this kid and suffered heavy injuries. The all-out effort Gu really can't be stopped… every move can bring out a beast phantom. Truly terrifying!"
1888
1889This blue shirt burly man stared tightly at Fang Yuan, barely raising his spirits.
1890
1891"I can't lose! As long as I defeat him, I can get all-out effort Gu as per the battle stage's rules. With this Gu, I can also cultivate strength path!"
1892
1893As the blue shirt burly man thought of this, he gave a fierce growl and pounced upon Fang Yuan.
1894
1895Water prison Gu!
1896
1897He opened his mouth wide and spit out a blue ball of water. The water ball rapidly expanded and trapped Fang Yuan inside it.
1898
1899Fang Yuan coldly snorted and casually punched inside the water.
1900
1901Boar strength phantom!
1902
1903The water ball shook thrice before becoming deformed but did not collapse.
1904
1905"It is no use. To deal with you, I purposely took a high interest loan and bought this rank three water prison Gu." The blue shirt burly man proudly laughed.
1906
1907Fang Yuan's gaze turned cold and without any panic, punched again.
1908
1909Bear strength phantom!
1910
1911The water ball fiercely shook, deforming intensely and almost collapsed, but still returned to its original state in the end.
1912
1913"Beast strength is hard, the flow of water is soft. Use softness to subdue hardness, you can't break it." The blue shirt burly man took a deep breath and relaxed his mind.
1914
1915But right at this time.
1916
1917Fang Yuan raised his leg and kicked to the side. Crocodile strength phantom!
1918
1919Crocodile strength was different from boar and brown bear; it was an amphibious creature and was very adept at the water element.
1920
1921Bang!
1922
1923The water prison was smashed into pieces.
1924
1925"What?!" The blue shirt burly man was pale with fright.
1926
1927Vertical crash Gu!
1928
1929Thump.
1930
1931The blue shirt burly man was sent flying by Fang Yuan, blood spurted out of his mouth in large amounts and he only landed on the ground after flying for twenty full steps.
1932
1933He struggled violently to get up, but he fell down again before he could stand even a little.
1934
1935There were no movements anymore.
1936
1937He was dead.
1938
1939Chapter 289: Can’t stop me
1940
1941
1942
1943"Even Wang Han lost and died in the battle stage."
1944
1945"This lad is too ruthless, he does not know how to show mercy!"
1946
1947"The all-out effort Gu is strong indeed…"
1948
1949Outside the stage, spectators discussed.
1950
1951Fang Yuan kicked and destroyed the water prison, charging over and killing the blue shirt man from the impact, causing the battle to end.
1952
1953The blue shirt man's chest was completely caved in, as his white ribs were exposed, soon, blood dyed the battle stage's field red.
1954
1955The hosting Gu Master walked onto the stage and declared Fang Yuan's victory.
1956
1957The blue shirt man's corpse was left lying there, no one was dealing it with at the moment.
1958
1959From the hosting Gu Master, Fang Yuan took back the vine information Gu, and looked into the Gu, he had seventeen victories now, with zero losses.
1960
1961After all, this was the fifth inner city battle stage, it was mostly made up of rank two Gu Masters, Fang Yuan had the cultivation advantage plus the all-out effort Gu, after his first few matches, in the subsequent battles, he only took a few moves to win.
1962
1963These victories earned him a large number of primeval stones.
1964
1965Winning in the battle stage, you not only get your opponent's Gu worms, you can also receive primeval stones as a reward from the battle stage.
1966
1967The more the spectators, the more primeval stones you earn.
1968
1969"Li Ran, this is fifty thousand primeval stones, I'm passing this to you in public in case you try to defame me in the future." Under everyone's watchful gaze, Fang Yuan took out a bag of primeval stones.
1970
1971Li Ran walked out from the crowd, receiving the primeval stones with a smiling face as numerous envious people watched.
1972
1973"Fang Zheng, you truly kept your word. First, you passed me eighty thousand, and now fifty thousand, a total of a hundred and thirty thousand primeval stones already." He cupped his fists, saying that as he left.
1974
1975The crowd went wild.
1976
1977"This Fang Zheng, first he gave eighty thousand, next fifty thousand, where did he get all those stones?" Some did not understand.
1978
1979"It is not strange, during these two weeks, he got consecutive victories in the battle stage, the fame of the all-out effort Gu attracted many spectators. Every match earns him thousands of primeval stones. After a few battles, he would have several tens of thousands." Someone replied in a sour tone.
1980
1981"Not just that, this lad is ruthless, killing his opponent almost every match. Very few people can survive a match with him, thus he can get around two to three Gu worms per battle. After selling them, that is another sum of primeval stones." Someone snorted, revealing Fang Yuan's brutal acts.
1982
1983"This Fang Zheng is too much, he is advancing by stepping on our corpses." Someone was furious.
1984
1985Someone sighed: "We are all demonic Gu Masters, why is there a need to kill each other? Sigh…"
1986
1987Someone exclaimed: "But to speak the truth, this Fang Zheng has his merits. Actually passing Li Ran two hundred thousand primeval stones as promised. To speak the truth, if I was in that position…"
1988
1989Once he said so, the crowd became silent.
1990
1991But someone quickly retorted: "He hasn't finished paying the two hundred thousand primeval stones. We can talk again after he pays the full sum."
1992
1993Looking at fang Yuan leaving, someone laughed coldly among the crowd: "His good days are coming to an end. In five days' time, it would be the date where Li Hao forcefully challenges him."
1994
1995"Li Hao? Didn't he ascend to fourth inner city already?"
1996
1997"Just a little bit to go, hmph, I can't wait to watch this battle!"
1998
1999"Hehe, this lad is too arrogant, let Li Hao teach him a lesson."
2000
2001Swish swish swish...
2002
2003In the aperture, primeval essence ebbed and flowed, waves appearing on surface of the light silver primeval sea.
2004
2005Steel tendon Gu swam in the sea, absorbing primeval essence as it emitted a black light.
2006
2007It was shaped like an earthworm, but had a black body and the surface was not as soft as an earthworm, instead, there was an oily and shiny exoskeleton.
2008
2009It emitted an eerie light, penetrating the aperture and shining on every part of Fang Yuan's body.
2010
2011Under the influence of the eerie light, Fang Yuan's muscles and tendons were covered in an oily dark color, causing them to become more firm and strong.
2012
2013After half a day, Fang Yuan stopped using the steel tendon Gu.
2014
2015He had sweated a lot, his breathing was rough, and his head felt slightly dizzy.
2016
2017The feeling of using the steel tendon Gu was not comfortable, it gave a sort of numb, painful and itchy feeling, invading his nerves, it put the endurance of the Gu Master to test.
2018
2019An ordinary Gu Master, when using the steel tendon Gu, it would take half a year to complete.
2020
2021But in Fang Yuan's plans, he condensed the time to a month.
2022
2023This means, the amount of time Fang Yuan uses on the steel tendon Gu a day is six times of an ordinary person, it was a strict test of his willpower and endurance.
2024
2025"I have to treasure every minute and second, to cultivate! Increasing my strength as fast as possible!"
2026
2027"I need primeval stones, the battle stage is the best way to earn. But if I lose a match, I would lose the all-out effort Gu. I might be able to use the purple thorn token to stop them, but I would have to pay a huge price in other aspects!"
2028
2029"I cannot lose at all! I am like a battle horse charging rapidly now, as my battle strength rises. But if I lose one match, it would be game over. My rapid growth would experience a huge setback."
2030
2031"Shang clan city is merely a starting point, how can I fall here? In this life, I have to become a Gu Immortal, I have to breakthrough to rank seven, eight, and nine. I want to ascend to the peak, and see the view that I did not manage to in my previous life. Legend says that beyond rank nine, it is the supreme realm of immortality! It is easy to have a long life, but to be an immortal, no one has ever managed to do it."
2032
2033"The highest point for a lifeform is to reach immortality, their greatest desire is immortality. What is the point of wealth, it is merely a hoarding addiction. What men and women, it is just primal instincts. What reputation, it is just bullshit people spew about you, carrying the stench of depravity."
2034
2035"Wealth, beauty, reputation, status, people who pursue all these are short-sighted. Back on Earth, there was no choice, as everyone was going to die eventually, thus they can only pursue these or life would be meaningless. But in this world, where primeval essence is rich, why would we not pursue immortality given the possibility?"
2036
2037"For the sake of immortality, wealth, beauty, reputation, status, I can make use of all of them, and I can also discard them as easily! For immortality, fear cannot stop me, I will charge forward relentlessly! For immortality, laziness will not stop me, I will never slack even for a moment! For immortality, pain cannot stop me, gods and demons cannot stop me, even heaven and earth cannot stop me!"
2038
2039As he affirmed his belief, Fang Yuan's black eerie eyes seemed to burn with a scarlet red demonic blaze.
2040
2041After his rest was over, he activated the steel tendon Gu again without hesitation.
2042
2043The dark eerie light shone on his body, even penetrating his skin.
2044
2045In the silent secret room, his expression was extremely cold, like a statue made of steel, giving off the feeling of an everlasting toughness.
2046
2047What numbness, pain or itching, they were merely tiny ripples in his heart.
2048
2049Others might not be able to stand it, but that does not mean Fang Yuan cannot!
2050
2051If stubbornness is demonic, then Fang Yuan is a demon among demons.
2052
2053No matter how many times he dies, it would not influence his resolve! No matter what setbacks he faces, they would only be firewood that allows the demonic ambitions in his heart to burn even more brightly.
2054
2055...
2056
2057Bam!
2058
2059The loud sound reverberated in the battle stage.
2060
2061Rocks and soil flew, as a blast of air swept the battlefield, although his opponent escaped the fatal blow, he was still pushed away by the air current and retreated over ten steps.
2062
2063The dust cloud dispersed, and the culprit behind this attack revealed its true form.
2064
2065This was a giant toad!
2066
2067It was larger than a mammoth, having two eyes as large as stone mills. Its body was grey and had a huge stomach and strong limbs. There was green moss on its skin, and even some tiny rocks on the surface.
2068
2069What gathered the most attention, was its back.
2070
2071Its back was extremely swollen, like it was carrying a small hill!
2072
2073This hill was the real deal, completely made of mountain rocks, about ten and a half feet high. It had many layers and folds, like it was shaved by swords and axes. Grass and weed grew on the mountain rocks, and there were even two or three trees.
2074
2075This was the rank three Gu, named mountain back toad. It was heavy and cumbersome, its signature move was to leap up, and crash down like a mountain.
2076
2077Earlier, it had displayed this move, and caused an earthquake to strike the battle stage, many spectators lost their balance and many things toppled.
2078
2079"This attack is too strong, really too strong!"
2080
2081"What a grand sight, even a spectator would feel his heart thumping."
2082
2083"The mountain back toad is like a castle, attack and defense all in one. The only weakness is a lack of speed, but its owner perfectly covered up this weakness!"
2084
2085Everyone discussed as they looked at this mountain back toad, but quickly shifted their gaze to a Gu Master.
2086
2087This Gu Master wore a flowery robe, was thin, and had a delicate appearance.
2088
2089Although he was a man, he had makeup and powder on his face, as he stood at one end of the battle stage, playing with his long fingernails.
2090
2091His name is Li Hao, rank three cultivation with a rich combat experience. He was especially proficient in dealing with strength path Gu Masters.
2092
2093"Just you alone, you want to compete with me? Hehe, admit defeat, don't waste my time." Li Hao stared at his fingernails, not even giving his opponent a glance.
2094
2095"Scoundrel, looking down on me! Take this!" His opponent was also someone commonly seen in the battle stage, being humiliated in public like this, his face contorted with anger as he gritted his teeth and pounced on Li Hao.
2096
2097Li Hao looked at him silently. As the opponent rapidly approached, Li Hao laughed coldly: "You have not learnt your lesson, was it not enough? Then, I'll let you experience it again."
2098
2099Position swap Gu!
2100
2101Li Hao's gaze gave off a strange light as he looked at his mountain back toad.
2102
2103In a breath's time, he vanished on the spot, appearing at the mountain back toad's location.
2104
2105At the same time, the mountain back toad appeared at his former location.
2106
2107Using the position swap Gu, he swapped places with the mountain back Gu.
2108
2109His opponent was rushing towards Li Hao, but in a split second, the mountain back toad appeared before him.
2110
2111Bam!
2112
2113Mountain back toad jumped, and like a flying mountain, it sent the opponent flying.
2114
2115The battle ended just as expected!
2116
2117"Mountain back toad with position swap Gu, such a battle strategy is unbeatable."
2118
2119"That's right, the position swap Gu can not only change the mountain back toad's location, it can also swap with the opponent. This completely eliminates the mountain back toad's weakness of low movement speed."
2120
2121"After this battle, Li Hao has twenty-nine net victories. Just one more, and he can rise to fourth inner city."
2122
2123"Hurry and leave, no one can stop him here anymore."
2124
2125"Who is his final opponent? Eh, it is that super lucky guy who got the legendary Gu."
2126
2127Chapter 290: Fang Yuan vs Li Hao (1)
2128
2129
2130
2131In the blink of an eye, five days passed.
2132
2133Fang Yuan had another battle scheduled.
2134
2135"Your opponent today has quite the background." Wei Yang walked towards Fang Yuan, instructing him to be careful.
2136
2137Fang Yuan nodded.
2138
2139He had never fought without adequate preparations, after being in an alliance with Li Ran, he obtained a lot of valuable information about the battle stage participants.
2140
2141Li Ran was a spy, undercover for eight years, his job was to gather information anyway. His understanding of the battle stage surpasses even Wei Yang.
2142
2143"Li Hao was also once a strength cultivator, rising to fourth inner city. He once had a glorious past, but encountered a bottleneck. In terms of strength cultivators, they were strong at the start, but start to show weakness in the middle stage, stuck there with no way to progress further. Li Hao was greatly traumatised, giving up on the strength path and changing to a support style."
2144
2145"Well, it was due to him finally getting lucky, choosing a good rock in the gambling den and obtaining the rare position swap Gu. With his rich experience, he immediately sold all the Gu he had and purchased a mountain back toad in the auction house."
2146
2147"Next, he relied on the cooperation between these two Gu and won all the matches he participated in. Relying on the Gu and primeval stones he won, he slowly accumulated his assets and gathered a new set of Gu worms. He is forcefully challenging you because he wants that all-out effort Gu, you have to be careful."
2148
2149Wei Yang said, as he patted Fang Yuan's shoulders and blended into the crowd.
2150
2151Fang Yuan looked deeply at Wei Yang, as he walked onto the arena.
2152
2153Whenever there was an important battle, Wei Yang would come and watch. Fang Yuan understood he was mere to act as mental support for Fang Yuan. One reason was because Shang clan wanted to recruit him, but more likely...
2154
2155It was because he treated Fang Yuan as a real brother!
2156
2157Relationships between people is this weird.
2158
2159Some people interact for tens of years without getting closer. Some people just talk once and become close friends.
2160
2161Fang Yuan understood Wei Yang's emotions. He could see his former shadow in Fang Yuan. This strong sense of acknowledgement, as well as Fang Yuan's candid nature, made him treat Fang Yuan as a close friend.
2162
2163"Wei Yang…" Fang Yuan thought, as he walked to the center of the arena.
2164
2165The terrain of this arena is a large sized swamp. Black rotten mud, giving off a putrid smell, and there were even puddles everywhere.
2166
2167Li Hao had not arrived yet.
2168
2169Outside the battle stage, large number of spectators were gathered.
2170
2171This was the most people Fang Yuan had seen at any of his battles. Standing on the arena, he looked around to see people all around him.
2172
2173Everyone conversed at the same time, causing the entire battle stage to be full of noise and chattering.
2174
2175"This Fang Zheng is in trouble today!"
2176
2177"He had been so arrogant these days, he should be taught a lesson."
2178
2179"Youngsters think too highly of themselves, he really thinks one all-out effort Gu makes him invincible!"
2180
2181"Li Hao is here." Someone shouted.
2182
2183The crowd went silent, before going wild again, their voices bursting through the roof.
2184
2185At the entrance, Li Hao appeared.
2186
2187"Lord Li Hao, we're all counting on you!"
2188
2189"May you win your thirtieth match and advance to fourth inner city."
2190
2191Among the crowd, many people shouted, some screamed.
2192
2193Compared to Fang Yuan, they thought more highly of Li Hao. When Fang Yuan first came, he was extremely arrogant, killing many opponents, ruthless and cruel. He had the purple thorn token, causing everyone to be jealous of his good luck.
2194
2195In contrast, Li Hao was a veteran in the battle stage. He had first walked on the strength path, then fell from fourth inner city. He had risen from the lowest part of his life, signifying the spirit of 'never give up' in the battle stage, it would ignite everyone's passion.
2196
2197Li Hao carried a light smile as he walked onto the stage.
2198
2199He was thin, wearing a flowery robe and makeup, as he walked casually towards Fang Yuan.
2200
2201But around sixty steps away, he stopped, not advancing further.
2202
2203Fang Yuan, in his previous few fights, used the vertical crash Gu to assault his opponents, sending them flying, easily winning in one strike. Li Hao was a veteran in the battle stage, he obviously made preparations for that.
2204
2205The vertical crash Gu's effective range was fifty steps, he was safe at the sixtieth border.
2206
2207"Strength cultivator, hehe…" He gave Fang Yuan a sweeping glance, filled with disdain: "Young man, unfortunately, your consecutive victory ends here. Do you know, looking at you now, it is just like me in the past. There is no future in the strength path, so what if you have the all-out effort Gu? Thank me, after I defeat you today, you will know it is for your own good, letting you understand the insufficiency of the strength path."
2208
2209He started lecturing Fang Yuan with his status as a senior.
2210
2211"You sure talk a lot, can you shut up?" Fang Yuan folded his arms, with a plain expression.
2212
2213"You…" Li Hao's face flushed with fury, as his laughter was filled with animosity: "Hehehe, young man, you do not respect your elders, you are bound to suffer."
2214
2215At this time, with the sound of the bell, the hosting Gu Master announced the start of the battle.
2216
2217Vertical crash Gu!
2218
2219Fang Yuan took a big stride, charging forward.
2220
2221Pew!
2222
2223The soil under his feet danced like waves, splashing high up on his left and right.
2224
2225"Wow, what a grand sight." Li Hao laughed lightly.
2226
2227He knew very clearly the vertical crash Gu could only charge fifty steps ahead. Every time it is used, there is a cooldown period of five breaths.
2228
2229He was sixty steps away, it might seem dangerous, but he was completely safe.
2230
2231This terrain was advantage to him. A muddy terrain was unlike a rough and flat surface, it was not suited for charging type attacks.
2232
2233As expected, Fang Yuan charged forty-five steps and stopped.
2234
2235But soon after, Fang Yuan turned his body to one side, facing Li Hao with his side view.
2236
2237Horizontal charge Gu!
2238
2239The soil and mud were split apart as the phantom image of a wild boar appeared, with a charging action, its speed raised sharply, wild and tough. In the blink of an eye, Fang Yuan reached Li Hao.
2240
2241If he was hit, he would definitely vomit blood and break a few bones.
2242
2243Li Hao went pale, at the crucial moment, he activated his vital Gu.
2244
2245Position swap!
2246
2247In an instant, he swapped with Fang Yuan.
2248
2249Fang Yuan was facing Li Hao as he charged, but now, Li Hao was behind him as he charged ahead, getting further away from Li Hao.
2250
2251"I was careless!" In just this moment, Li Hao's forehead was pouring with sweat.
2252
2253He did not think that Fang Yuan would be much of a threat to him. After knowing Fang Yuan had the vertical crash Gu and horizontal charge Gu, he did not think much about it, but that almost caused him to be severely injured.
2254
2255At the crucial moment, his years of experience saved him.
2256
2257Compared to defending, why not dodge.
2258
2259One position swap, and Fang Yuan missed.
2260
2261No matter how great your strength, as long as you hit air, you cannot cause damage, it is pointless.
2262
2263"This lad has the all-out effort Gu, every move of his strikes hard. I sold my strength Gu and got rid of the beast strength in my body, I cannot compete with him head on."
2264
2265Li Hao calmed his nerves, and retreated.
2266
2267He used his movement Gu, his body turning light as the wind, floating backwards, rapidly pulling distance from Fang Yuan.
2268
2269At the same time, he raised his finger and pointed at the sky, as a green light shot out from his aperture, towards the sky.
2270
2271It was a jade green light, stopping in mid air, then exploded.
2272
2273Under the glaring light, the body of the mountain back toad showed itself, descending.
2274
2275There was a black shadow on the ground, engulfing Fang Yuan, and got larger over time.
2276
2277Five breaths had long passed, Fang Yuan looked at Li Hao, and activated the vertical crash Gu, charging over.
2278
2279He raised his speed rapidly, quickly getting out of the shadow's range.
2280
2281THe moment he got out, the mountain back toad landed.
2282
2283Bam!
2284
2285A loud bang, and the entire battle stage trembled, as black mud and soil flew into the air like tidal waves.
2286
2287The waves splashed to the edge of the arena, causing the spectators to dodge instinctively, but a huge dark red shield protected them.
2288
2289The battle stage obviously had defensive Gu to protect the audiences.
2290
2291"It appeared, Lord Li Hao's mountain back toad!" Seeing this, someone screamed in excitement.
2292
2293"Even if Fang Zheng charges at Li Hao, it is pointless. Li hao only needs to use the position swap Gu, and easily change position with the mountain back toad… hehehe."
2294
2295But Fang Yuan did not charge at Li Hao.
2296
2297He stopped in his tracks.
2298
2299The black mud splashed on him like a wave, but were repelled by the canopy Gu's white armor.
2300
2301Horizontal charge Gu.
2302
2303After the waves subsided, he tilted his body away from the mountain back toad, and charged horizontally towards it.
2304
2305Howl!
2306
2307The roar of a bear was heard, as a brown bear phantom appeared, howling at the sky, giving off its wild aura.
2308
2309Bam!
2310
2311Fang Yuan slammed on the mountain back toad's body, causing the toad to sway.
2312
2313But that was it.
2314
2315The mountain back toad's unique hill was made of mountain rocks that have great density. It was one of the heaviest rank three Gu.
2316
2317Once its four legs stood on the ground, it was like an unmovable mountain, causing everyone to gasp at its firmness.
2318
2319But Fang Yuan did not care, he raised both arms and smashed on it like a hammer.
2320
2321Howl!
2322
2323Above his head, the phantoms of boar, brown bear, and crocodile appeared one after another.
2324
2325His punches tore through the winds as he attacked without restraint. Hitting on the mountain back toad, thunderous sounds went off like firecrackers.
2326
2327Such a fierce attack sent the spectators into deep fear, as cold sweat ran down their back.
2328
2329"If I was the target, I would not have a complete corpse by now!"
2330
2331"The all-out effort Gu is too strong, really too strong."
2332
2333"But Fang Zheng's brain is fried, not attacking Li Hao but instead, punching that mountain."
2334
2335...
2336
2337The defense of the mountain back toad was impressive, even with Fang Yuan's ferocious attacks, it did not move, causing people to feel helpless against it.
2338
2339But Fang Yuan had a cold expression, the more he attacked, the fiercer it got, like this toad had a great feud with him.
2340
2341Li Hao's expression changed.
2342
2343No matter how tough the mountain back toad was, it had its limits, it could not endure this rain of punches anymore.
2344
2345Gua gua gua...
2346
2347The mountain back toad started shouting, as the pain was exceeding its limits.
2348
2349"This cannot go on!" Li Hao's heart jumped, as he willed and rode on the mountain back toad.
2350
2351Mountain back toad started to counter attack, stepping on the mud and charging at Fang Yuan.
2352
2353With its weight, if Fang Yuan took this head on, he would definitely be sent flying.
2354
2355Horizontal charge Gu.
2356
2357His eyes shone brightly, moving away at the last moment, dodging the mountain back toad's attack.
2358
2359Getting around the toad's body, and hitting again!
2360
2361Chapter 291: Fang Yuan vs Li Hao (2)
2362
2363
2364
2365Roar!
2366
2367The beast phantom appeared with a flash and gave a loud roar; the mountain back toad croaked in pain and suddenly slammed towards Fang Yuan.
2368
2369Fang Yuan snorted and dodged.
2370
2371Mountain back toad carried a small hill on its back; it was very heavy and had a slow speed, so Fang Yuan could easily dodge it.
2372
2373Horizontal charge Gu and vertical crash Gu were used in succession; mountain back toad repeatedly tried to attack Fang Yuan but could not even touch his clothes.
2374
2375The audience was watching the match with stupefied expressions.
2376
2377The mountain back toad was a lofty and immovable image in everyone's minds, but right now, it was crying out from Fang Yuan's attacks.
2378
2379"This kid is actually so violent!" Li Hao was starting to get worried. He gritted his teeth and prompted the mountain back toad to jump.
2380
2381"You brat, I am going to smash you into minced meat!" Li Hao cracked a sneer; his mind full of killing intent.
2382
2383However, mountain back toad's shadow was not over Fang Yuan.
2384
2385Instead, it was over Li Hao.
2386
2387Mountain back toad's enormous body began to fall down and smash heavily on Li Hao.
2388
2389Most of the audience were so stupefied that they could not react in time. Only Wei Yang and a few others' eyes shone as they realized Li Hao's battle tactic.
2390
2391Just using mountain back toad to smash Fang Yuan was likely to fail easily.
2392
2393Fang Yuan possessed horizontal charge Gu and vertical crash Gu; he could completely dodge the attack.
2394
2395However, the mountain back toad was landing on Li Hao and Li Hao could use position swap Gu to change his position with Fang Yuan. As long as he grasped the proper timing, he could prevent Fang Yuan from reacting in time and be crushed by the mountain back toad.
2396
2397With a weight like that of mountain back toad, even if Fang Yuan was not squashed to death, he would absolutely suffer heavy injuries.
2398
2399However, the moment mountain back toad jumped in the air, Fang Yuan immediately charged towards Li Hao!
2400
2401By using horizontal charge Gu and vertical crash Gu, he soon reached Li Hao.
2402
2403"Accursed brat, he actually saw through my plan!" Li Hao was very annoyed right now.
2404
2405There was still some distance between Fang Yuan and him now, but if he used position swap Gu now, Fang Yuan would have enough time to dodge mountain back toad's attack.
2406
2407But if he did not use it now and Fang Yuan stuck close to him, even if he used position swap Gu to change positions, it would be too late to escape and he would be crushed to death along with Fang Yuan by the mountain back toad.
2408
2409Helplessly, Li Hao activated position swap Gu and changed position with Fang Yuan.
2410
2411Bam!
2412
2413The mountain back toad landed on the ground, Fang Yuan, as expected, used horizontal charge to dodge.
2414
2415He was always paying attention to the cooldown period of horizontal charge Gu and vertical crash Gu. There were three breaths of time interval between them. Taking into account the time taken to charge fifty steps, he would always have a movement Gu to use.
2416
2417These small details often determined success or failure.
2418
2419Fang Yuan accumulated a rich combat experience in his previous life, allowing him to have no flaws.
2420
2421He again charged towards mountain back toad, punching and kicking with an all-out offensive. Beast phantoms also appeared one after another, making his attacks extremely fierce.
2422
2423Stones flew about, mountain back toad got into a dangerous situation again and began croaking.
2424
2425The audiences who were hooting before fell silent.
2426
2427Many watched this scene, startled and their jaws opened wide.
2428
2429All-out effort Gu became so powerful and tyrannical in Fang Yuan's hands, even mountain back toad could only turn into a punching bag and fall into a vulnerable position!
2430
2431One side was like wildfire, extremely intense; but at Li Hao's side, it was quiet and still.
2432
2433Li Hao had never expected Fang Yuan to persevere in attacking the mountain back toad so relentlessly.
2434
2435His previous opponents had all ignored mountain back toad and tried attacking Li Hao. If Li Hao was defeated, there was no need to worry about mountain back toad.
2436
2437This was the strategy that smart people used!
2438
2439But Fang Yuan apparently chose the most stupid target to attack.
2440
2441He concentrated all his strength on mountain back toad and paid no heed to Li Hao.
2442
2443Li Hao was given the cold-shoulder, he felt like he had become a spectator who was not related to the situation; the situation was truly embarrassing!
2444
2445Beast phantoms continually flashed and converged in the air. Fang Yuan moved around mountain back toad and attacked fiercely.
2446
2447Mountain back toad's enormous and mighty physique now looked so clumsy.
2448
2449"Not good, mountain back toad is coughing out blood!" Li Hao who was watching the scene from afar felt his body go cold.
2450
2451Position swap Gu!
2452
2453Strange lights flashed in his eyes as he captured Fang Yuan's image.
2454
2455The next instant, Fang Yuan's field of view had changed greatly, he was moved far away by Li Hao in a split second.
2456
2457In contrast, Li Hao took Fang Yuan's position and was standing beside mountain back toad.
2458
2459He placed his palms on mountain back toad and started healing it.
2460
2461He was inwardly startled by the injuries on mountain back toad.
2462
2463He had fought so many matches on the battle stage, but had never seen such serious injuries.
2464
2465"Am I going to lose this match? Losing to such a young junior? No, impossible!" The intense premonition of defeat rose for the first time in Li Hao's heart.
2466
2467Fang Yuan sneered and charged again.
2468
2469How could he allow Li Hao to heal mountain back toad so openly in front of his eyes?
2470
2471Seeing Fang Yuan charging over, Li Hao gritted his teeth, but he could only give up on healing and retreated back.
2472
2473He waited till Fang Yuan had charged in front of mountain back toad before using position swap Gu.
2474
2475Like this, he was again standing beside mountain back toad and Fang Yuan was far away.
2476
2477But Fang Yuan was not worried and still charged over.
2478
2479Li Hao's healing was repeatedly disrupted while Fang Yuan's attacks also had no effect.
2480
2481Despite this, Fang Yuan still kept on charging over without giving up.
2482
2483Several repeated attempts later, it was Li Hao instead who stopped healing; his complexion mixed.
2484
2485The audience could not make any sense of this.
2486
2487But there were still some smart people.
2488
2489"Fang Zheng's repeated attacks appear to be useless but actually Li Hao's primeval essence was greatly consumed."
2490
2491"That's right. Although position swap Gu is mystical, it has its flaws and huge primeval essence consumption is one."
2492
2493"The further the distance and stronger the target, the more primeval essence Li Hao needs to expend to activate position swap Gu."
2494
2495"Fang Zheng possesses the strength of two boars, a crocodile and a bear; the primeval essence consumption of Li Hao to use position swap Gu is definitely a lot. Moreover, he still wanted to heal mountain back toad, even a rank three's primeval essence can't support such intense usage."
2496
2497Li Hao also realized this and thus stopped his healing attempt.
2498
2499He did not have much primeval essence left now.
2500
2501If it were his previous opponents, he could still continue with his rank three white silver primeval essence. But his opponent now, Fang Yuan was also a rank three Gu master and had already established superiority in terms of primeval essence.
2502
2503Looking at Fang Yuan charging over again, Li Hao hesitated but had no choice but to go ahead.
2504
2505Fang Yuan clenched his fists and immediately abandoned the mountain back toad, attacking towards Li Hao.
2506
2507Bang bang bang.
2508
2509His fists broke the air, the momentum and fierceness they contained were incomparable, like tides striking the cliff.
2510
2511Several moves later, Li Hao could not endure it anymore!
2512
2513Although he had other Gu, his true core was the mountain back toad and position swap Gu.
2514
2515In order to decrease the primeval essence consumption of position swap Gu, he had completely removed the beast phantoms hidden in his body.
2516
2517Fang Yuan's offensive was extremely fierce like the howling storm, making Li Hao have difficulty breathing.
2518
2519Li Hao relied on his previous foundation of a strength cultivator to forcefully withstand few moves before he had no choice but use position swap Gu to change places with mountain back toad.
2520
2521Fang Yuan did not pursue Li Hao but began attacking mountain back toad.
2522
2523Phantoms of boar, brown bear and crocodile flashed one after another.
2524
2525Rocks flew about and mountain back toad spurted out large mouthful of blood, counterattacking in a frenzy.
2526
2527But Fang Yuan used horizontal charge and vertical crash Gu alternatively; as such, mountain back toad's counterattacks looked really clumsy.
2528
2529"How could it be like this…."
2530
2531"Even Lord Li Hao had to fight personally and share the burden with mountain back toad."
2532
2533"Fang Zheng's attacks are terrifyingly fierce, suppressing both Li Hao and mountain back toad."
2534
2535The match's progress was beyond most of the audience's expectation. Every since Li Hao abandoned strength path and changed into support path, they had never seen him fall into such a predicament.
2536
2537Li Hao's battle tactics were pretty good. The combination of position swap Gu and mountain back toad was brilliant.
2538
2539Even Fang Yuan could not crack this battle tactic.
2540
2541However...
2542
2543He did not need to crack it!
2544
2545He had never thought of cracking it, just swinging his arms, and continuing his all-out strategy. No matter who appears in front of me, I will beat them!
2546
2547This seems like a foolish move, but actually concealed great wisdom in it.
2548
2549Savagery and tyrannical momentum was unleashed like this.
2550
2551"This is a good method." Some people's eyes brightened, "If I were to fight Li Hao in the future, I need to be like Fang Zheng; disregarding everything else and attacking mountain back toad."
2552
2553As soon as these words came out, the person's words was denied and mocked by others beside him.
2554
2555"Nonsense! You want to imitate him, is your brain okay? Fang Zheng can do this because he is a strength cultivator and his primeval essence expenditure is low. You are a fire path cultivator, you attacking mountain back toad is exactly what Li Hao would want to see."
2556
2557Without primeval essence, a Gu Master's battle strength was sure to fall sharply and would be almost equal to a mortal.
2558
2559In a battle, the side with higher primeval essence was often dominant. And as the gap between primeval essence quantity increased, this dominance increased further.
2560
2561The Gu Master who thought of imitating Fang Yuan heard this and immediately choked with no way to retort.
2562
2563Someone patted his head and said as if he had comprehended something: "I suddenly see that strength cultivators have their advantages."
2564
2565"That's right." Someone sitting nearby immediately replied, "Strength cultivators' attacks draws the strength of their bodies, thus strength Gu Masters have a common advantage in that they have little primeval essence consumption."
2566
2567"Every cultivation path has its own advantage and disadvantage. Strength path being renowned back in the Antiquity Era was not without reasons."
2568
2569Everyone looked at the stage again.
2570
2571Li Hao and mountain back toad were retreating step by step under Fang Yuan's fierce attacks.
2572
2573All-out effort Gu's primeval essence consumption was very small.
2574
2575And Fang Yuan's true attacking power came from his several beast phantoms.
2576
2577But these beast phantoms by themselves did not expend any primeval essence!
2578
2579This was the most absurd part!
2580
2581If it were other Gu Masters in Fang Yuan's place, they would have been tired after dozens of rounds, but Fang Yuan's attacks became fiercer the longer he continued.
2582
2583His momentum continually rose, his fists carried with it the sound of the wind and were extremely tyrannical; the sound they produced were like the roars of ferocious tigers or the growls of giant bears!
2584
2585From Fang Yuan's performance, the crowd could see the grand and proud demeanour of strength path cultivators from the ancient times!
2586
2587His heartbeat pulsed rapidly and his blood raced; Fang Yuan felt more pleasant the more he fought.
2588
2589Since rebirth, he had been extremely cautious in his actions which accumulated suppressed feelings in his heart, and now as he punched and kicked fanatically, those feelings were all let out.
2590
2591The gloominess in his heart was swept clean.
2592
2593No doubt, obtaining all-out effort Gu was a turning point in Fang Yuan's life.
2594
2595Before this, he had to rush about busily, always in danger, not even able to fill his stomach properly. Encountering even a slightly larger problem would require him to think and ponder extensively.
2596
2597But after obtaining all-out effort Gu, he finally had the qualification to be proud and could use his fists to resolve many things.
2598
2599Like now, he did not need to crack Li Hao's brilliant battle tactic and could just use his fists to sweep across.
2600
2601Demons was cunning but they were even more tyrannical!
2602
2603Sweeping the heaven and earth, engulfing the mountains and rivers, blood splashing the world, absolute strength prevails over all schemes!
2604
2605You are fierce; I am fiercer than you. You are unreasonable; I am more unreasonable than you!
2606
2607Demon! Demon! Demon!
2608
2609Kill! Kill! Kill!
2610
2611Fang Yuan fought to his heart's content, his emotions surging intensely inside him; finally, he could bear it no longer and the emotions poured out like a torrent.
2612
2613"Because hardships strengthen resolve, the strong-minded will not be lured by worldly affairs. Today I step on grass; later I shall step on mountains and rivers!"
2614
2615From today, I will walk on the path of supremacy!
2616
2617Sweep the earth and laugh at the world.
2618
2619Tread the green mountains; step on the blue seas; bind the blue dragon; assault the sky!
2620
2621Bath in difficulties and sharpen the demonic soul; lift the flag and sing in triumph; defy heaven, defy fate, defy the universe!
2622
2623Bam!
2624
2625A punch ruthlessly struck the mountain back toad, the small hill on its back collapsed, blood flowed out of its body as it was beaten to death by Fang Yuan!
2626
2627Horizontal charge, vertical crash!
2628
2629Li Hao was sent flying for dozen of steps before he fell down on the ground.
2630
2631Plop, he fell on the mud, no longer moving.
2632
2633The black mud mixed with dark red blood contaminated his flowery robe.
2634
2635He paid with his life for his contempt.
2636
2637The battle ended abruptly. Fang Yuan proudly stood on the spot; his masculine, ferocious aura pervaded the scene.
2638
2639His declaration still echoed in the battle stage.
2640
2641Other than that, it was a scene of silence, no one spoke!
2642
2643Chapter 292: Law Fragment, Traces of Great Dao
2644
2645
2646
2647In the secret room, Fang Yuan sat on the cushion, his eyes shut tightly.
2648
2649Light silver primeval essence continued to pour into the self-reliance Gu.
2650
2651Self-reliance Gu was diving in the primeval sea in Fang Yuan's aperture.
2652
2653It was shaped like a cockroach, a dark-brown colored flat body. There were feelers on its head, and wings on its back.
2654
2655This was the rank three healing Gu that Fang Yuan purchased for a huge amount of primeval stones.
2656
2657Self-reliance Gu could be said to be the best Gu for strength cultivating Gu Masters.
2658
2659The greater the physical strength of the Gu Master, the better the effect of the self-reliance Gu's healing. In contrast, the weaker the Gu Master, the weaker the healing effect.
2660
2661Self-reliance, relying on oneself, it meant obtaining the ability to regenerate and heal using one's own strength.
2662
2663Fang Yuan had the strength of two boars, one bear and a crocodile, now that he used the self-reliance Gu, the healing effect was on par with the flesh-bone Gu. This was not its limit yet, when Fang Yuan gains new strength from more Gu, its effect would surpass the flesh-bone Gu, continually improving.
2664
2665But the self-reliance Gu has its weaknesses.
2666
2667It could not heal others, only the Gu Master himself.
2668
2669This greatly limited its use.
2670
2671Moreover, it was expensive, as a rare Gu, it costs forty-five thousand primeval stones! Even more expensive than the sword shadow Gu. Thus, although there were many strength path Gu Masters, few could afford it.
2672
2673Different from ancient times, strength path Gu Masters now were of the lowest social class, holding jobs that involve physical work. There were many low rank ones, few high rank ones, and even less outstanding ones. Barely any stood at the peak, in the entire southern border, only Empress Wu Ji was a successful story. But even she relied on the ancient strength path inheritance to do so.
2674
2675This was an era where strength path declined.
2676
2677Now, Fang Yuan was using the self-reliance Gu to recover his injuries.
2678
2679In the battle with Li Hao, he had gotten injured.
2680
2681The biggest culprit was not Li Hao, not the mountain back toad, but Fang Yuan himself.
2682
2683As he attacked with such a ferocious force, and for such a long time, it caused his muscles and tendons to be overworked, and some of them tore, even the canopy Gu was in bad shape, needing time to recover.
2684
2685Thankfully, he had used the iron bones Gu before, thus there was no problems with his bones. If not, even his bones would have broke.
2686
2687Normally, when people exerted too much strength, they would pull a muscle. If a cannon is fired too many times, it would be easy to jam up.
2688
2689Any kind of strength needed a foundation to contain it. On this aspect, strength path Gu Masters follow the same rule.
2690
2691Fang Yuan had the canopy Gu and iron bones, but his strength was too great, unleashing such a flurry of attacks, even his muscles could not take it, there was great stress on his organs, blood etc.
2692
2693After this battle, there were lots of hidden injuries in his body.
2694
2695Even his sweat had blood traces.
2696
2697"Since I started using the self-reliance Gu to heal, this is the tenth hour already. Mostly because of the steel tendon Gu, it is making my healing difficult." Fang Yuan had an understanding of his situation.
2698
2699Before this, he had been using the steel tendon Gu to transform and train his body. It caused the tendons in his muscles to gain a layer of black color, shining with a metallic glow, becoming tougher.
2700
2701Right now, his tendons were either pulled or torn, to reconnect and heal them, it would be much harder than an ordinary person's muscles and tendons.
2702
2703Why is that so?
2704
2705Ordinary people might not know why, only treating this as a natural phenomenon. But Fang Yuan knew clearly, he had been a Gu Immortal after all, he knew these involved the natural laws of heaven and earth.
2706
2707Man is the spirit of all beings, Gu is the essence of heaven and earth.
2708
2709Whether the Gu worm's body is large or small, it would contain a law fragment of the Great Dao.
2710
2711Steel tendon Gu's effect is to reinforce the tendons in the Gu Master's body until they are tough as steel. This caused Fang Yuan's tendons to contain the corresponding power of the natural law, the traces of Great Dao.
2712
2713For the self-reliance Gu to heal, it not only has to recover the body's tendons, but also has to overcome and overwrite this layer of natural law.
2714
2715But thankfully, this law did not clash with the healing law. Otherwise, not only would Fang Yuan not be healed, he would be damaged instead.
2716
2717Similarly, the brown bear innate strength Gu, black and white boar Gu, and crocodile strength Gu were the same.
2718
2719They contained the Great Dao law fragments regarding "physical strength", when their strength lurk in Fang Yuan's body, they form into beast phantoms and conceal themselves. Only after he unleashes their true power could they be seen by the naked eye.
2720
2721The so called beast phantom, its essence was the Dao mark of "physical strength"— a trace of Great Dao in heaven and earth.
2722
2723Take the poison vow Gu as another example.
2724
2725It contained the law of restriction, it stays in a Gu Master's body to restrict them.
2726
2727This Dao mark is normally not seen, but under the effect of the eating one's words Gu, it will be forced to appear, and then exterminated.
2728
2729The law contained in the eating one's words Gu were opposite of the poison vow Gu. But the former was slightly stronger, thus it could overwrite the other.
2730
2731Or taking it further, why did the rainbow light Gu, position swap Gu, require Gu Masters to be free of strength modifications?
2732
2733It was the same reason.
2734
2735The law of strength would interfere with the law of light and the law of space. If the Dao mark of strength is too strong, it would cause the two Gu to fail when utilized.
2736
2737"Gu Masters use Gu, but the truth is that they use the Great Dao law fragments within the Gu. Gu is the carrier of the fragment, a tool of heaven and earth. When Gu Masters refine Gu, they are fusing laws, and forming laws. Nurturing Gu, using Gu and refining Gu… Gu cultivation is not a small Dao, but a true Great Dao. In cultivating, Gu Masters learn about nature, and learn about heaven and earth. This is why the hope for immortality, and becoming an everlasting existence still remain."
2738
2739Fang Yuan was clear in his heart.
2740
2741...
2742
2743"Because hardships strengthen resolve, the strong-minded will not be lured by worldly affairs. Today I step on grass; later I shall step on mountains and rivers!"
2744
2745In the study room, Shang Yan Fei muttered, thinking about the poem Fang Yuan recited, showing interest on his face.
2746
2747"Because of difficulties, one gain aspirations and resolve. The allure of the mortal world cannot restrict one's heart. What grand aspirations! Especially that last line, are you treating my Shang clan as grass?"
2748
2749"Lord clan leader, the way I see it, Fang Zheng was referring to his opponent Li Hao, being too weak for him." Wei Yang cupped his fists and said.
2750
2751Shang Yan Fei shook his head: "It is fine, I am not so narrow minded. But it is a pity I missed a good show. Although I did not see it personally, I can imagine the scene of Fang Zheng unleashing his ability, striking with a grand aura."
2752
2753Shang Yan Fei stood at a high point, he had a broad vision, and naturally was broad minded. Towards Fang Yuan's aspirations, he could understand, and appreciate it.
2754
2755Reminded by Shang Yan Fei, Wei Yang recalled the scene of the battle, and exclaimed: "That is indeed so. The battlefield back then, Fang Zheng was extremely ferocious, stunning the spectators, everyone was dominated by his aura and no one said a word!"
2756
2757Shang Yan Fei got up from his seat, strolling slowly to the window: "Armies are easily built, but generals are hard to come by. A pity this general is too arrogant, not even placing Shang clan in his eyes. But, he had gone through tough times, managed to survive, and gained much from it, as his cultivation rose rapidly. This caused his nature to develop in that direction."
2758
2759"Lord clan leader's analysis is spot on. Young men would definitely have such ambitions, being lawless and fearless." Wei Yang lowered his head, adding on.
2760
2761Shang Yan Fei looked outside the window, squinting.
2762
2763Fang Yuan equated Shang clan city to grass, this was an overwhelming aspiration, he was definitely someone with great ambition. But Shang Yan Fei himself did not mind that.
2764
2765He was a man standing at the peak, on the top of the whole southern border, he could definitely accept people with ambitions. Furthermore, Shang clan city would not truly become grass just because someone said so.
2766
2767What he minded was the first sentence.
2768
2769Because hardships strengthen resolve, the strong-minded will not be lured by worldly affairs…
2770
2771In this world, there were lots of people with great ambitions but no ability, while people with aspirations and talent were few, one in a million. Those who not only had talent and aspirations, but also a firm will, were almost non-existent!
2772
2773Aspiration and talent were not scary, but if they had an indomitable will and determination, that would cause worry.
2774
2775Such a person, in history, he would either be called a hero, a villain, or a conqueror.
2776
2777Such people, can change history, and create history!
2778
2779Such a person, how would he submit to others? How would he allow himself to be used by Shang clan? If he could not be used, and this person walks the demonic path, he would definitely leave his mark in this world, causing storms and disasters in his life. This was not something the righteous path wants to see…
2780
2781Thinking so, Shang Yan Fei suddenly said: "I heard, Fang Zheng snatched Li Ran's opportunity, thus he compensated him two hundred thousand primeval stones to repay the favor. How much does he still owe?"
2782
2783Wei Yang replied: "He already paid a hundred and thirty thousand, only seventy thousand remain. But it should be repaid soon."
2784
2785Hearing this, Shang Yan Fei's worry eased.
2786
2787He nodded: "That's true. Someone with ambition would not mind the small details, so what if it is two hundred thousand primeval stones. Hehehe."
2788
2789Thinking of how Fang Yuan saved Shang Xin Ci, Shang Yan Fei laughed.
2790
2791He was really interesting, doing things with his own principles, repaying kindness and taking revenge for hatred. But he does not have righteous morals nor any restraints, such a nature was dangerous, but there was still hope of recruiting and controlling him.
2792
2793Right now he was at the peak of his fame, there was little hope of recruiting him, they had to wait.
2794
2795After he faces hardship from reality, they will use kindness to move him, and recruit him under Shang Xin Ci's wing. With such a helper, Shang Yan Fei would feel assured about her safety.
2796
2797"Nevermind, Fang Zheng, let me see how far you can go…" Shang Yan Fei thought in his heart.
2798
2799He had a sharp foresight, entirely clear of the situation.
2800
2801After Fang Yuan killed Li Hao, the entire battle zone went into a commotion.
2802
2803The power of the all-out effort Gu was seen by everyone.
2804
2805Many started to realize Fang Yuan was a tough opponent. But on the other hand, it made many experts start to notice and desire the all-out effort Gu.
2806
2807Fang Yuan would have a peaceful time for a while, but soon, those days will end.
2808
2809According to his nature, he would definitely suffer extensively. At that time, he would know how weak he truly was.
2810
2811Using the battle stage, he would be suppressed and polished.
2812
2813As Shang Yan Fei predicted, Fang Yuan's days got easier, as he won without a fight in his subsequent matches.
2814
2815Who was Li Hao?
2816
2817He was the number one strongest in fifth inner city battle stage, someone about to rise to fourth inner city.
2818
2819Even he died by Fang Yuan's iron fist, who could stop him?
2820
2821But a forceful challenge cannot be cancelled, those demonic Gu Masters thinking of taking advantage of the situation were forced to enter the arena.
2822
2823At the start, some minded their reputation and tried to spar with Fang Yuan.
2824
2825But Fang Yuan heavily injured several people, and after he killed one person, they did not dare to think highly of themselves anymore, once the battle started, they surrendered.
2826
2827Nineteen, twenty, twenty-one victories...
2828
2829Fang Yuan went onto the stage no longer to battle, but just to collect primeval stones.
2830
2831It could be said to be the easiest time of his life.
2832
2833And during this period, a group of pursuing Bai clan Gu Masters arrived at the foot of Shang clan city.
2834
2835Chapter 293: Heaven is blind
2836
2837
2838
2839"We've finally reached Shang clan city." Staring at the mountain of buildings, Bai Feng sighed.
2840
2841He was a Bai clan elder, when he was young, he roamed the southern border, and had once came to Shang clan city. But this time round, he was already old, the buildings were all unfamiliar to him, and even his goal was to arrest the two demonic Gu Masters.
2842
2843"Do you guys think those two demonic scoundrels really chose this direction?" Bai Lian sounded worried.
2844
2845"It should be this direction. We split into a few groups at the place where the footless bird landed, but the other directions were all dead ends. Only this path left behind traces." Tie Dao Ku said.
2846
2847He was uncertain in his heart.
2848
2849Although Tie clan was the number one investigator in the southern border, he was an attacking type Gu Master. Moreover, the southern border had many forests and mountains, complex terrain that made it easy to hide oneself and difficult to trace them.
2850
2851"Maybe the two of them died long ago along the way, becoming food for wild beasts." Someone said optimistically.
2852
2853There was a huge possibility in this, they had found many traces of skeletons along the way, and all the remains of the caravan assaulted by beast hordes.
2854
2855"I do hope they are alive!" Bai Zhan Lie gritted his teeth, his grandfather was killed by Fang and Bai, he wanted to kill them with his own hands, taking revenge for that intense hatred in his heart.
2856
2857"Alright, let's enter the city first. If there are no discoveries, we shall spend some primeval stones to send a letter to clan leader, and see what orders she has for us." Bai Feng took the first step.
2858
2859The few of them arrived at the city gate looking like travellers on a long journey.
2860
2861Coincidentally, this gate was the one Fang and Bai had once gone through.
2862
2863"To enter the city, each person has to pay ten primeval stones." The city guard stopped them from entering.
2864
2865Bai Feng took out a yellow pear token, waving it.
2866
2867The guard looked at it, and after inspecting it, said: "Yellow pear token can exempt three people from the fees."
2868
2869Bai Feng's group of six handed in thirty primeval stones.
2870
2871"This brother, did you see the two of them entering the city?" Bai Zhan Lie pointed at an arrest warrant on the wall, asking.
2872
2873This was the arrest warrant for Fang and Bai.
2874
2875But the surface of this arrest warrant had been covered by another new arrest warrant, almost half of the surface was covered.
2876
2877This was common.
2878
2879Once in a while, new arrest warrants would appear.
2880
2881The city guard's expression changed, howling at Bai Zhan Lie: "What are you saying? A city gate with me guarding, how can there be a demonic Gu Master entering? Do you think I am blind? This is slander, you are slandering a righteous young man from Shang clan!"
2882
2883Bai Zhan Lie's expression froze.
2884
2885Clan elder Bai Feng quickly apologised, in Shang clan city, even if he was a Bai clan elder, he had to lower his head.
2886
2887The city guard saw Bai Feng's rank three cultivation, and did not dare to pursue the matter, only muttering under his breath.
2888
2889Only until Tie Dao Ku showed an unhappy expression, and displayed his identity: "Enough, shut up. Do you think my Tie clan is unclear of what your Shang clan is like?"
2890
2891The city guard stopped speaking.
2892
2893After facing this initial display of authority, Bai clan entered the outer city grimly.
2894
2895"Let's get some food, we are all tired after these few days of travelling. We need to rest, it will not affect our mission. I know a good restaurant in fifth inner city, it is at the battle zone, I had participated in it back in the day, and reached fourth inner city." Bai Feng recommended.
2896
2897This suggestion was well received.
2898
2899The gang arrived at fifth inner city, at the battle zone. Bai Zhan Lie, Bai Lian and the other juniors were instantly awed by the atmosphere of the battle zone.
2900
2901As they walked, they could hear the people's excited conversations.
2902
2903"Tan Jing finally took revenge, and defeated Shi Nan Sheng. Shi Nan Sheng vowed to take revenge, their grudge is growing."
2904
2905"Sang Kong controls the virus cloud moth, his battle strength has risen again, he can almost dominate the fifth inner city."
2906
2907"Dominate? Hehe, he will have to wait until Gu Yue Fang Zheng ascends to fourth inner city."
2908
2909...
2910
2911"Gu Yue Fang Zheng!!!"
2912
2913Bai clan's gang stared with wide opened eyes, like they were struck by lightning. They quickly stopped, and stared at the talking passerby.
2914
2915They scared the shit out of him.
2916
2917After three minutes.
2918
2919On the battle stage, Fang Yuan walked up to the stage. His opponent was a middle aged man, tall and burly, thick waist and shoulder, with a long moustache on his face, looking extremely fierce and aggressive.
2920
2921Ding!
2922
2923The bell rang and the battle officially started.
2924
2925"I admit defeat!" The middle aged man shouted at the first second. He was swift and direct, causing the audience to feel unsatisfied.
2926
2927"Again?"
2928
2929"Aren't you embarrassed, admitting defeat before fighting."
2930
2931"Embarrassment is better than dying, in the entire fifth inner city now, who dares to fight against Fang Zheng? The all-out effort Gu is too powerful!"
2932
2933The crowd was noisy as usual.
2934
2935The battle ended as soon as it started.
2936
2937The hosting Gu Master took both their vine information Gu and edited the information inside before returning it to them.
2938
2939The middle aged man turned to leave, admitting defeat was a humiliation, but circumstances forced him to, after all Fang Yuan was cruel and ruthless, he never spares his opponents. He did not dare to fight just to save his reputation.
2940
2941Fang Yuan did not leave immediately, but took out forty thousand primeval stones and handed them to Li Ran.
2942
2943This caused everyone to go into discussions again.
2944
2945"Another forty thousand, he really gave it!"
2946
2947"Although this Gu Yue Fang Zheng is ruthless, he keeps his word. Two hundred thousand, he has repaid most of it already. Only thirty thousand remain."
2948
2949"Li Ran used these primeval stones to purchase Gu worms, he is starting to display his strength in the battle zone. I am so envious."
2950
2951"Repaying kindness and taking revenge for hatred. From this aspect, I truly respect Gu Yue Fang Zheng."
2952
2953"With this win, he is at twenty-nine net wins. Just one last match, and he would be in fourth inner city."
2954
2955"The faster the better, how dares to challenge him? Even Li Hao died by his hands…"
2956
2957...
2958
2959"Gu Yue Fang Zheng, after all these hardships, we've finally found you!" Among the crowd, Bai Zhan Lie gritted his teeth, as his face contorted with anger.
2960
2961His companions also showed an ugly expression.
2962
2963They had chased after him for so long, suffering along the journey. In the end, they found that the person they wanted to arrest had been living luxuriously in Shang clan city, making a name for himself.
2964
2965Before this, they had continuously guessed if he had died under the beast hordes, digested into faeces and defecated.
2966
2967The scene now, was a huge contrast to their expectations.
2968
2969Not only did Fang Yuan not have problems, he was living well, even changing his Gu worms and raising his battle strength and cultivation.
2970
2971What were they supposed to feel!
2972
2973"Oh heaven is blind, how can such a vile scoundrel live so well?" Bai Feng raised his head and cried out.
2974
2975"His luck is too good, saving the illegitimate daughter of Shang clan leader and receiving the purple thorn token! In Shang clan city, we can do nothing to him, he is protected by Shang clan!" Bai Lian gritted her teeth, she had learnt much from the passerby.
2976
2977The enemy who killed the two young masters were right before them, but there was nothing they could do to him.
2978
2979"Not only him, even that Bai Ning Bing received the purple thorn token. Now, she has also joined the battle stage, and has good battle records." A companion beside her sighed.
2980
2981"What world is this, evil people live well while good people die. Sigh!"
2982
2983"Actually, it is not like we have no way to deal with them. They could join the battle stage, so can we." Tie Dao Ku spoke with a low voice, his gaze sharp as daggers.
2984
2985He had heard from Bai clan leader that Fang Yuan had the charred thunder potato mother Gu.
2986
2987Right now, he could confirmed that Fang and Bai were the ones who killed his young master!
2988
2989But arresting them was impossible now, so why not just kill them! That way, young master's revenge can be taken, and Tie Dao Ku can return to Tie clan.
2990
2991"That's right! This is a good idea." Bai Feng's eyes shone, as his spirits were lifted.
2992
2993Using the rules of the battle stage, even if Fang Yuan had the purple thorn token, he could not be protected. Even if they could not kill him, taking away his all-out effort Gu would halt his growth.
2994
2995The truth is, his growth speed was too scary, it struck fear in them. He cannot be allowed to grow anymore!
2996
2997"Wait, where is Bai Zhan Lie?" Bai Lian suddenly asked.
2998
2999...
3000
3001Fang Yuan walked out of the battle stage, as numerous people gave way to him.
3002
3003Numerous gazes landed on him, there were fear and respect, indifference and animosity.
3004
3005"Although I killed many Gu Masters, my reputation is not bad. Every time I give Li Ran primeval stones, it is a performance that improves my reputation. Out of the two hundred thousand, only thirty thousand remain."
3006
3007Fang Yuan walked as he considered his options.
3008
3009After battling Li Hao, he earned three Gu worms, but did not gain the mountain back toad or the position swap Gu.
3010
3011He beat the mountain back toad to death, and the position swap Gu is Li Hao's vital Gu, it perished after Li Hao died.
3012
3013But that battle had many spectators, Fang Yuan earned over six thousand primeval stones.
3014
3015This month, his consecutive victories earned him enough to return forty thousand to Li Ran and still save a small sum of primeval stones for himself.
3016
3017Because of his actions, and Li Ran's response, Wu clan did not do anything to Fang Yuan for now.
3018
3019This earned him precious time for development.
3020
3021"I have twenty-nine victories now, just one more and I'd be in fourth inner city. The pressure there is much higher, with experts everywhere, but wins also give me much more reward. After using the steel tendon Gu, I can increase the number of my beast phantoms already, but…"
3022
3023To increase the number of beast phantoms, it is a long process, there will only be effect after two to three months.
3024
3025After getting to fourth inner city, Fang Yuan's pressure would be greater, he needed more strength to deal with the situation.
3026
3027"A large size auction will be held soon, and there is an instant success Gu up for bidding. If I can get it, I would be able to obtain new beast phantoms overnight, but my primeval stones are too few, I don't even have the qualification to participate in the auction…"
3028
3029Money is always insufficient when one needs to use it!
3030
3031Just as Fang Yuan was considering who to borrow from, a young man appeared and blocked his path.
3032
3033"Gu Yue Fang Zheng, do you recognise me?!" Bai Zhan Lie screamed.
3034
3035"Zhan Lie!"
3036
3037"Zhan Lie, don't be rash."
3038
3039Bai clan and gang arrived, forming a semi circle around Fang Yuan.
3040
3041A stand-off!
3042
3043Chapter 294: Crimes have to be punished!
3044
3045
3046
3047Fang Yuan slightly furrowed his eyebrows and lightly glanced at the group.
3048
3049He had some impression of Bai Zhan Lie; the number one genius from Bai clan's younger generation, they had even drank together at one time.
3050
3051Bai Lian was even more familiar, she had accompanied him for some time, using honey trap on him. Unfortunately, how could beauty shake Fang Yuan's heart? The result was that Fang Yuan played her at her own game.
3052
3053Others such as Bai Feng, Tie Dao Ku and so on, Fang Yuan did not recognize them.
3054
3055Even so, Fang Yuan knew this group of people's origins and motives.
3056
3057This was the victim's family coming to visit.
3058
3059"Justice has long arms, Gu Yue Fang Zheng, you slaughtered my Bai clan's two young clan leaders, you will not escape justice even if you escape to Shang clan city!" Bai Feng shouted.
3060
3061"Fang Zheng, the trap you buried killed my Tie clan's young master and clansmen. This hatred is absolutely irreconcilable, I, Tie Dao Ku, will take your head!" Tie Dao Ku's expression was flared up as he pointed at Fang Yuan's nose and roared.
3062
3063The disturbance here immediately attracted the attention of nearby passerbys. To go where the crowds were, it was human nature; more people began to pay attention.
3064
3065"Oh, you are a Tie clansman? Strange! How could I have no idea what you are talking about if I killed your clansmen?" Fang Yuan sneered.
3066
3067"Stop denying it! You have the charred thunder potato mother Gu, you dug the pitfalls with extremely sinister intentions. My Tie clan group stepped into your pitfall, the explosions blew up even their corpses. We have been chasing your all the way, who could it be besides you?" Tie Dao Ku's eyes seemed to be almost shooting out flames, wishing he could immediately cut Fang Yuan into pieces.
3068
3069"Hehehe." Fang Yuan was dazed for a moment before he started laughing, "So it was like that, it seems I did the right thing by digging those pitfalls. Thank you for telling me this good news and making me happy."
3070
3071"You!" Tie Dao Ku opened his eyes wide, he was seething with anger, "You admitted it! You actually admitted it! Good, very good, Fang Zheng, you are dead meat. You dared to kill my Tie clan's young master, you have made an enemy out of Tie clan!"
3072
3073"So what?" Fang Yuan shrugged his shoulders and sarcastically said, "Laughable, I dug those pitfalls to deal with the grass skirt monkeys. But you guys stepped on them, this can only be blamed on your Tie clansmen for not having eyes. Moreover, what crimes did I commit for you guys to tail after me? Courting your own death, hehehe, it is good that they died, it is fabulous that they died…"
3074
3075The surrounding people were dumbstruck.
3076
3077"He provoked a Tie clansman so directly?"
3078
3079"Has Fang Zheng gone crazy? Tie clan is also one of the lords of southern border and isn't any weaker than Shang clan."
3080
3081"Tie clan has captured demonic Gu Masters from everywhere and its famous demon suppression tower is the nemesis of the demonic path. Fang Zheng actually killed a young master of this clan!"
3082
3083"He has the purple thorn token and knows he is safe! As long as he stays in Shang clan city, he would be a distinguished guest of Shang clan. Even if Tie clan leader came, Lord Shang Yan Fei would need to protect him. If he didn't protect Fang Zheng and the news spread out, it would signify that Shang clan is afraid of Tie clan. Hehe…"
3084
3085The discussion of the surrounding people calmed down Tie Dao Ku who was burning in anger.
3086
3087Fang Yuan possessed a purple thorn token and his cultivation was now rank three; dealing with him was not as easy as before.
3088
3089"Hmph, Fang Zheng, don't think you are safe by hiding here. You want to rely on the battle stage to become Shang clan's external elder? In your dreams! I will tell you, as long as I Bai Feng am here, you will never be able to dominate the battle stage!" Elder Bai Feng said in a gloomy tone.
3090
3091Tie Dao Ku followed immediately: "Fang Zheng, I will deal with you in the battle stage. There is no escape for you, the huge crime you have commited must receive severe punishment!"
3092
3093"Oh, you guys want to stop me in the battle stage?" Fang Yuan's eyes flashed with a trace of cold light.
3094
3095He was not afraid of these people, even though Bai Feng, Tie Dao Ku, Bai Zhan Lie and Bai Lian were all rank three Gu Masters.
3096
3097If they were going to deal with him through the battle stage, they could not display their superiority in numbers.
3098
3099"It is just that my current situation…."
3100
3101Fang Yuan mumbled inwardly then suddenly chuckled and said to Bai Feng: "Your Bai clan obtained Bai Gu inheritance but are still not satisfied and want to deal with me? Without me, how could you have obtained the inheritance? Hmph, it seems you don't want to know the whereabouts of your two young clan leaders."
3102
3103The Bai clansmen immediately revealed astonished expressions.
3104
3105From Fang Yuan's tone, it seemed the two young clan leaders were not dead...
3106
3107"Fang Zheng, what do you mean?" Bai Feng immediately asked in bewilderment.
3108
3109"Fang Zheng, don't try to deceive us with lies. We have searched almost everywhere in Bai Gu inheritance ground but haven't found even a trace of the two young clan leaders." Bai Lian coldly shouted.
3110
3111"It was me who found the Bai Gu inheritance, does Bai clan think it has more understanding of the place than me? Ridiculous!"
3112
3113Fang Yuan disdainfully scoffed and continued: "Why would I retreat while carrying those two burdens? Can't you think with your brains? Deceive you? Hmph, I am not even afraid of Tie clan, why would I fear your puny Bai clan?"
3114
3115"Fang Zheng, if the two young clan leaders are still alive then this will just be a misunderstanding, our Bai clan… is not an unreasonable clan." Bai Feng picked his words carefully to coax Fang Yuan into revealing the whereabouts of the two young clan leaders.
3116
3117"You want to know? Hehe, fine. It just so happens that I am starving, how about you treat me to a meal? Let's go to third inner city's most famous Shi Zi restaurant." Fang Yuan indifferently said.
3118
3119Bai clansmen looked at each other.
3120
3121The whereabouts of the two young clan leaders was extremely important since it affected the future of Bai clan.
3122
3123Despite Bai clan having extreme hatred towards Fang Yuan, elder Bai Feng gritted his teeth and nodded: "Alright, let's go there!"
3124
3125Shi Zi restaurant was not just a simple restaurant, but was a luxurious brothel.
3126
3127This restaurant introduced women from foreign lands like Northern Plains, Eastern Seas and Western Desert; the women were all enchanting, with plump butt and large breasts. Another speciality of this restaurant was their lion meatball and was served on a human.
3128
3129Lion's meat, tiger's meat and all kinds of precious ingredients were made into meatballs and displayed on top of a beautiful woman in between her breasts.
3130
3131The name lion meatball held deep meanings. It was not only to eat the food, but also to 'eat human'.
3132
3133The reason why Fang Yuan wanted to visit this place was not because he was interested in lion meatball, but because this restaurant had a strong background and contained many secret private rooms. Many Shang clansmen would often choose a private room for their private affairs, concealing their names and had no worries about news leaking.
3134
3135Fang Yuan chose a secret room and sat along with everyone.
3136
3137A feast was laid before them, the aroma of the dishes assailed their nostrils. However, they did not order the signature dish, lion meatball.
3138
3139"Say it, where are our two young clan leaders?" Bai Feng impatiently asked the moment he sat down.
3140
3141"Before I tell you, I would like to ask this Tie clan Gu Master to stay outside for a moment." Fang Yuan gazed at Tie Dao Ku.
3142
3143"Why?" Tie Dao Ku's gaze was sharp as knife, as he ruthlessly cut off Fang Yuan. A bad feeling emerged in his mind.
3144
3145"Because this is a private affair between me and Bai clan!" Fang Yuan's tone was unyielding, "Besides me, everyone else should be Bai clansmen, otherwise I guarantee I won't say a word!"
3146
3147Bai Feng hesitated, the matter concerned the two young clan leaders, he had to be careful about it, thus he looked at Tie Dao Ku.
3148
3149Tie Dao Ku snorted and annoyedly left the secret room, closing the door shut.
3150
3151The sound produced in the secret room was isolated from the outside.
3152
3153"Say it, where are the two young clan leaders, don't even think of deceiving us! This is Shang clan city, there are many Gu worms that can verify your words." Bai Feng sternly asked.
3154
3155Fang Yuan lifted a wine cup and sipped at it: "Whereabouts? Of course, they are both dead, you guys are really naive! Since I made an enemy out of your Bai clan, I will naturally eliminate all threats!"
3156
3157"What!"
3158
3159"You dared to toy with us?
3160
3161"Fang Zheng, you are courting death!!"
3162
3163The Bai clansmen stood up furiously, their flaming anger pressed on towards Fang Yuan.
3164
3165They were full fury but could not take any actions.
3166
3167This was not Bai clan's territory, Fang Yuan possessed a purple thorn token and also had impressive strength. They would definitely have to pay a catastrophic price to kill Fang Yuan. Most importantly, if they killed him like this, it was making an enemy out of Shang clan!
3168
3169Your Bai clan killed my Shang clan's esteemed guest in Shang clan city, hehe.
3170
3171Bai clan was now facing the crisis of their spirit spring drying up, they were in a precarious situation. Now, after obtaining the Bai Gu inheritance, many forces were eyeing it covetously, if they provoked a titan like Shang clan on top of that, the consequences would be too dire to imagine!
3172
3173Fang Yuan calmly sat on his seat, he raised his eyes and looked at everyone, then indifferently said:
3174
3175"I actually admire you guys. Your Bai clan's spirit spring is drying up and are in deep trouble, yet you guys still have the mood for leisure and came chasing after me. Hehe, you are really amazing."
3176
3177These words were like a bolt of lightning which fiercely struck their hearts, causing tides to surge in elder Bai Feng's heart.
3178
3179He was horrified as he blurted out: "This... how do you know this?!"
3180
3181This information was sealed off by Bai clan's higher ups, even Bai Zhan Lie and Bai Lian did not know it. But Fang Yuan laid bare the secret with one sentence, how could it not frighten Bai Feng?
3182
3183"Of course it was from your noble clan's two young clan leaders. Before I killed them, they knelt and begged for forgiveness, trying to use this information to obtain my trust and exchange for their lives." Fang Yuan talked nonsense, anyway, dead men tell no tales.
3184
3185"Impossible! This information is only confined to clan leader and few elders. The two young clan leaders are young and ignorant, how could we let them know this?!" Bai Feng immediately retorted.
3186
3187Fang Yuan curled his lips: "Maybe they heard it when they were playing around? After all, their mother is your clan leader. These are just minor details."
3188
3189"Lord clan elder, is what he said about the spirit spring drying up true?"
3190
3191"How could this be, if the clan's spirit spring dries up…"
3192
3193Bai Lian, Bai Zhan Lie and others questioned one after another, their expressions worried and frightened.
3194
3195Spirit spring was the foundation of a clan, there was no need to mention its importance. If the clan lost the spirit spring, no matter how strong it was, it would only be rootless weed.
3196
3197Bai Feng immediately came back to his senses by their questions and inwardly knew he had messed up.
3198
3199Maybe Fang Yuan was only guessing, the two young clan leaders were young, their credibility were not high.
3200
3201Bai Feng felt immense regret and wished he could give himself a tight slap. He was impatient and could not hide secrets. Otherwise, when he was young, he would not have been driven out of the clan by his father to force him to mold his character.
3202
3203These years, he had cultivated some shrewdness but in the end, a leopard cannot change its spots.
3204
3205But honestly, he could not be blamed. Spirit spring was too important, Bai Feng was carrying this burden in his heart. The pressure was accumulating like a volcano and burst out due to Fang Yuan's one sentence.