Chapter 191: Sect Splits, Conflict Erupts, I'm Here—Go Ahead and Attack

Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

Rainbow bridges sprouted everywhere, immortal light glittered, within the sect ancient trees towered to the heavens, and waterfalls resembled a silver river.

Rare treasures and exotic beasts darted through the mountains and forests, as if it were a mortal fairyland.

Beneath the earth lay hidden spirit veins, supplying a continual flow of spiritual energy.

It is one of the strongest immortal sects in the Eastern Wilderness.

At this very moment, Gu Jin Nian's resonant voice also rang out.

"Heaven's Mandate Marquis of Da Xia, Gu Jin Nian comes to request a rain talisman."

As that booming voice sounded.

The sect disciples couldn't help turning their gazes toward him, their eyes fixed on Gu Jin Nian, filled with curiosity.

Heaven's Mandate Marquis? Gu Jin Nian? That name has become exceedingly famous in recent years; saying everyone knows it is no exaggeration.

"Rain talisman?"

Many sect disciples were somewhat surprised; Gu Jin Nian personally coming to request a rain talisman was indeed unusual.

In recent times, the Da Xia Dynasty's natural disasters—how could the Eastern Wilderness sect not know?

Yet throughout the Eastern Wilderness, even all sects under heaven, the matter they care most about now is the Eastern Wilderness Demon Cavern; if it can be suppressed, the benefits are endless, and that is their top priority.

As for the rain talisman, the sect still possesses some; the sect also needs them, as they can earn merit. If sect disciples use a rain talisman to bring rain for the people, they gain merit.

Logically, when the Da Xia Dynasty faces such events, the sect's intervention would be a win‑win.

But the problem is that now the major forces in the Eastern Wilderness all reject the Da Xia Dynasty, not for any other reason than Gu Jin Nian.

In the past year, everything Gu Jin Nian has done has shaken the world, and each act has helped the Da Xia Dynasty boost its national fortune.

Although Gu Jin Nian invited Confucius, slashed the Confucian‑Daoist faction, and gave each major system a lifeline, this did not make the powers thank him; on the contrary, because he gave them an opportunity.

Their desire to seize Heaven's Mandate grows, and the Da Xia Dynasty's declining fortune is a boon for the sect.

First, in the contest for Heaven's Mandate, the Da Xia Dynasty will fall, which is beneficial overall.

Second, if the Da Xia Dynasty grows ever stronger, could it become like the Central Continent Dynasty—suppressing sects and making them part of the empire?

The Central Continent Dynasty's sects are part of the court, essentially placed under imperial decree.

Precisely because of this, the Central Continent sects fell from the divine altar, and the Eastern Wilderness sects rose, unrestrained, able to ignore imperial orders.

Naturally, the sects do not wish any empire to rise.

Whether Da Xia or Great Jin, it matters not.

When the founding ancestor pacified the Ten Kingdoms, why were sects involved? Because the Great Jin Dynasty was stirring; if Great Jin had seized the Ten Kingdoms first, the Da Xia Dynasty would have become Great Jin's sphere.

The Fuyu Dynasty is even more obvious; it had long become a vassal of the Great Jin Dynasty, and then Great Jin could stand on equal footing with the Central Continent Dynasty.

Feeling their way across the stones, they naturally needed to suppress the sects.

These two reasons explain why the sects refrain from acting in the face of this Da Xia heavenly disaster.

Swish.

In the next instant, two figures appeared.

They were acquaintances.

Zhao Siqing and Xu Ya.

The two stepped on flying swords and approached Gu Jin Nian to bow.

"Greetings, senior brother Jin Nian."

"Greetings, senior brother."

The two spoke; they had studied together at Da Xia Academy, were on good terms, so the former naturally addressed the latter as senior brother.

"Junior brother Xu Ya, junior sister Zhao, it's been a long time."

Seeing the two, Gu Jin Nian gave a slight smile and returned the courtesy; after all, they were acquaintances, which might simplify matters later.

"Senior brother Jin Nian, are you here to request a rain talisman this time?"

Xu Ya opened, looking at Gu Jin Nian and asking.

"Exactly."

Gu Jin Nian nodded.

Yet hearing this, Xu Ya's expression turned somewhat helpless.

"Senior brother, the rain talismans of Tai Xuan Immortal Sect are scarce, only a few remain, kept as bottom‑drawer items."

Xu Ya spoke, politely refusing.

But upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian's expression stayed unchanged; King Qin came here to demand a rain talisman, and the sect did not give it, proving the sect does not wish to get involved.

Although his own prestige exceeds King Qin's, he was prepared for the refusal.

"Junior brother Xu Ya."

"Please go inside and inform the sect elders: the Da Xia heavenly disaster now requires rain talismans. If the sect is willing to help, first, the Da Xia Dynasty will remember this kindness; second, the rain‑bringing matter will still be handled by Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciples, and the merit for the people counts for the sect."

"Furthermore, the Buddhist sect has already contacted our Da Xia court; if there is no other solution, His Majesty may consent to the Buddhist sect entering Da Xia, thereby exchanging merit for a golden rain."

"If the sect is willing to intervene, once Da Xia is stabilized, the rain talisman will be returned tenfold. Gu, as promised, will fulfill it."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; he roughly understood why the sect hesitated, yet any matter could still be negotiated.

In this world there are no eternal enemies, only eternal interests.

However, after Gu Jin Nian stated these conditions, Xu Ya's expression showed no relief, still appearing helpless.

"Senior brother Jin Nian."

"This matter has already been decided by the sect."

"The rain talisman holds great significance for our sect as well."

Xu Ya spoke, a bit embarrassed; after all, Gu Jin Nian had taken the discussion this far, which was already quite generous.

The Immortal Sect's refusal like this is indeed not good, after all the Immortal Sect also claims to save the world.

"You go back and ask."

Gu Jin Nian spoke; his face showed little expression, but his meaning was simple.

He wanted to obtain a result.

"Senior Brother Jin Nian."

Xu Ya spoke again, but Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out, cutting off the rest of his words,

"Ask."

Having said that, Xu Ya sighed, then bowed and said, "Senior Brother Jin Nian, please wait a moment."

After speaking, Xu Ya flew straight toward the sect.

He left Zhao Siqing here.

"Senior Brother Jin Nian, the Immortal Sect is now occupied with the matter of the Eastern Wilderness Demon Cave; the focus is there, the sect head is not within the sect, and the rain talisman issue is a decision of some elders. Whatever the outcome, please do not be angry, Senior Brother Jin Nian."

"The Great Profound Immortal Sect does not wish to offend the Da Xia Dynasty, nor do we wish to offend you."

Zhao Siqing spoke; she was rather simple, fearing that Gu Jin Nian might be angry, so she explained deliberately.

"Alright, I understand."

Gu Jin Nian nodded, trying to make his expression as gentle as possible.

But inside, Gu Jin Nian felt something was off.

The tenfold promise is not the main issue; the real problem is that the Buddhist Sect approached the Da Xia Dynasty. Logically, the Da Xia Dynasty is of great significance to the Buddhist Sect, and likewise to the Immortal Sect, which naturally does not want to see the Buddhist Sect settle in the Da Xia Dynasty.

So having said all that, Xu Ya's first reaction was not to go back and ask, but to reject himself outright.

That is the real problem.

Since when has the Immortal Sect stopped caring even about the Buddhist Sect settling in Da Xia? This is clearly unreasonable.

Is there some undisclosed deal between the Buddhist Sect and the Immortal Sect? Otherwise, even if Da Xia permits the Buddhist Sect to settle, the Immortal Sect would likely refuse.

"Knowing the Da Xia Heavenly Disaster, the Buddhist Sect and the Immortal Sect have an undisclosed transaction."

"They bypassed Da Xia."

Gu Jin Nian pondered, and he vaguely guessed what the deal might be.

Eastern Wilderness Demon Cave.

The Immortal Sect suppresses the demon cave, hoping to use the opportunity to gain supreme merit, a merit different from that of the Buddhist Sect.

It is the merit the Immortal Sect needs—subduing demons and eliminating evil.

And this Eastern Wilderness Demon Cave, the Buddhist Sect would inevitably intervene; if the Buddhist Sect does not intervene but instead assists the Immortal Sect, they could exchange for the Immortal Sect's consent to settle in Da Xia, while the Immortal Sect would not be able to aid the Da Xia Dynasty.

From the Immortal Sect's standpoint, they might indeed agree.

Especially the Da Xia Heavenly Disaster, which looks far from optimistic to many forces.

Even if Da Xia does not fall, it will be severely weakened; at that time, who will become emperor is uncertain, and Prince Ning is already stirring.

Thus, the Immortal Sect conducting a benefit exchange at this moment is not a bad thing.

Of course, these are all Gu Jin Nian's own conjectures; he does not truly know the situation.

And at that moment,

Xu Ya returned.

He moved at incredible speed, wielding a flying sword, and arrived before Gu Jin Nian.

"Senior Brother Jin Nian."

Xu Ya returned; his expression was still unpleasing, and after bowing, he answered directly.

"The elders' stance remains as before."

"The rain talisman is extremely important to our Immortal Sect; we hope Senior Brother Jin Nian will not be angry."

The other side spoke, a bit embarrassed; after all, they had only just met, and such a refusal felt somewhat improper.

Listening to Xu Ya speak, Gu Jin Nian fell silent.

He naturally did not blame Xu Ya; this matter does not concern him. Though he is a disciple of the Great Profound Immortal Sect, he cannot sway the Immortal Sect's will.

A brief silence lingered.

The three stared at each other, the scene appearing somewhat quiet.

But after a while, Gu Jin Nian's voice rang out again.

"Da Xia Heaven's Mandate Marquis, Gu Jin Nian came to the Great Profound Immortal Sect to request ten rain talismans."

The voice sounded again, making Xu Ya and Zhao Siqing even more silent.

Within the Great Profound Immortal Sect, gazes were cast; they did not know what exactly had happened, and hearing Gu Jin Nian's voice again naturally seemed inappropriate.

However, Gu Jin Nian's plea received no response from the Immortal Sect.

In the Great Profound Immortal Sect's main hall, dozens of elders gathered, seated inside; when they heard Gu Jin Nian's words, an elder's voice inevitably rose.

"We have already asked Xu Ya to convey it delicately; why does Gu Jin Nian still insist?"

His words carried some dissatisfaction.

"Regarding the Da Xia Heavenly Disaster, we are powerless; even if we give the rain talismans, what can be done? The grand scheme of the Eastern Wilderness cannot be solved by a few rain talismans."

Someone spoke, tone calm.

"Not everyone needs to give Da Xia face, let alone him."

A third voice sounded, speaking even more directly.

They respect Gu Jin Nian because of his status and his possessing a celestial spirit root; it is normal not to offend him, but when it involves the Immortal Sect's interests, gentle persuasion is already as far as one can go.

Gu Jin Nian, in this way, appears somewhat tactless in their eyes.

They opened their mouths, but the words did not reach outward; instead, internal discussion made it clear that the entire Great Profound Immortal Sect's higher echelons shared the same view.

The Heaven's Mandate Marquis of Da Xia, Gu Jin Nian, came to the Great Profound Immortal Sect to request ten rain talismans.

But soon, Gu Jin Nian's voice sounded again, this time a bit louder than before.

In an instant, the elders in the main hall couldn't help but frown.

Gu Jin Nian kept speaking, and something seemed off.

"What does he intend to do?"

An elder frowned.

"Does he wish to contend with our sect?"

"We have already told him there are none, yet he still begs here? Does he want to embarrass our sect?"

"Is he trying to pressurize us with his power?"

Each elder frowned; they were not afraid of Gu Jin Nian and spoke kindly, for it was Gu Jin Nian's status, but that did not mean the sect feared him.

Soon, a voice rang out, giving a reply.

"Lord Marquis."

"Rain talismans are extremely scarce for a sect; they are a treasured stock of our Great Profound Immortal Sect, not that we refuse to lend, but because we need them ourselves."

The voice sounded utterly calm; it was a step toward Gu Jin Nian.

Outside the sect.

Upon hearing this, Gu Jin Nian fell completely silent.

There was no other reason; the sect not giving rain talismans left nothing to say, after all a sect is a sect, not a Da Xia Dynasty force; giving is a favor, not giving is its duty.

"Senior."

"This Da Xia calamity threatens Donglin County; if the forest fire spreads, it will cause endless disaster. Even if we do not consider the Da Xia Dynasty, I ask all seniors to think of the Da Xia people, set aside power struggles, for the common folk are innocent."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He did not invoke the Da Xia Dynasty, but the people, hoping the other side would lend aid.

"Lord Marquis."

"The Great Profound Immortal Sect truly has few rain talismans left."

However, the other's voice was cold; clearly they cared not for the people, and not lending meant not lending.

With those words, everyone's gaze inevitably fell on Gu Jin Nian.

Speaking frankly, the voice was rather cold; if it continued, it might provoke conflict.

Gu Jin Nian's great name rang like thunder to them; truly provoking him, no one knew what the outcome would be.

"Senior Brother Jin Nian."

"The Great Profound Immortal Sect is not as simple as you think, Senior Brother Jin Nian; since we say there are none, please return, Senior Brother Jin Nian."

At this moment, Xu Ya spoke; he was indeed afraid that Gu Jin Nian would become angry and spark a quarrel, which would be troublesome.

"Indeed, Senior Brother, why not ask other sects?"

Zhao Siqing also spoke, urging Gu Jin Nian.

Hearing the two, Gu Jin Nian took a long breath and then spoke.

"Gu understands."

"The common folk, in the eyes of sects, are like ants; it seems sects and Buddhist temples are not much different."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his expression turning cold; he did not hate the Great Profound Immortal Sect, but voiced his inner thoughts.

Speaking frankly, if one day the Da Xia Dynasty invades the Xiongnu Nation and horses trample the royal court, Gu Jin Nian would absolutely not allow Da Xia soldiers to slaughter Xiongnu civilians.

Unless Xiongnu civilians take up arms, then they become soldiers; if they remain civilians, Gu Jin Nian would never let anyone strike them.

This is not laughable benevolence, but the righteous qi in people's hearts.

The sect's practice made Gu Jin Nian look down on them; anyone who sacrifices the people for profit is, in Gu Jin Nian's eyes, a bad thing.

Having said that.

Gu Jin Nian turned and left.

But at that moment, a voice, inevitably cold, sounded.

"Lord Marquis, what do you mean?"

"Because we do not lend rain talismans, does the Great Profound Immortal Sect err?"

"Moreover, when did our Great Profound Immortal Sect become a being that sees the people as ants? Lord Marquis, you truly are impressive, worthy of being a saint of Confucianism and Daoism in later ages; with a single simple sentence, you have degraded our Great Profound Immortal Sect so low?"

The cold voice sounded.

In the Great Profound Immortal Sect, an elder in the main hall stood up; he wore a teal robe, was in his seventies, frail yet dignified, and at this moment could not bear Gu Jin Nian's words.

Some elders frowned, wishing to persuade the other side; the Sect Leader and the Great Profound Immortal Sect Supreme Elder had instructed that rain talismans not be lent out, but never to offend Gu Jin Nian.

That was the instruction of the two.

But now an elder could not hold back, retorted; this is not a good thing—if Gu Jin Nian is truly provoked, the Great Profound Immortal Sect will also have trouble.

"When the people are in distress, is it a matter of lending or not?"

"Gu's words may be harsh, but he always speaks the truth."

"If you disagree, produce the rain talisman; Gu will immediately apologize to the Great Profound Immortal Sect and retract his earlier words."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He was first stating his viewpoint, second hoping the other side would produce the rain talisman; this was not a provocation, ultimately he still hoped the other side would lend the rain talisman, for solving the crisis is the proper way.

Apologizing is not a shameful thing.

"Ha, First Marquis, is that all you know—provocation?"

"These rain talismans will not be lent to you."

"Moreover, no sect will lend them to you."

"Gu Jin Nian, everyone in the world fears you; you have undermined the Buddhist sect's fortune, you are the first marquis of Da Xia, a saint of Confucianism and Daoism for later generations, but the Immortal Sect is different; the Immortal Sect is certainly not as simple as you imagine."

"Even if you possess an immortal spirit root, you still would not know the differences of the Immortal Sect."

"If the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect had not pledged allegiance to the Da Xia Dynasty, then based on your words just now, you will have to pay the price."

The elder continued speaking.

It was clear that he had objections to Gu Jin Nian, mainly because Gu Jin Nian's remarks just now were too blunt and belittled the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect.

It is normal for the older generation to be dissatisfied; moreover, Gu Jin Nian is young, and in the eyes of the elders, his behavior is full of provocation, which is a rather strange phenomenon.

Older people cannot tolerate even a hint of arrogance from the young; any slight mistake makes them think the other is presumptuous.

This elder had a fiery temper; even when someone stood up and tugged at him, hoping he would stop the argument, he ignored them and voiced his dissatisfaction.

However, within the main hall, some elders approved of his words, so they remained silent.

Outside the Immortal Sect.

Gu Jin Nian, who had originally planned to leave, stopped in his tracks after hearing this.

"Senior Brother Jin Nian, Elder Wang Xuan has a somewhat fiery temper but no ill intent; the sect leader and the senior elder hold you in good regard, and some elders of our sect also favor you. Please do not be angry."

Xu Ya immediately spoke, fearing that Gu Jin Nian might truly become angry.

If a dispute broke out here, whatever the outcome, it would not be what he wanted to see.

Listening

Gu Jin Nian simply looked up; his gaze pierced everything, directly seeing the scene inside the main hall of the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect.

"You may disregard my status."

"I am right here."

"Feel free to strike."

"I, Gu, would like to see what methods the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect has."

As he spoke, the Immortal King's jade sedan appeared, instantly radiating light; five directional divine beasts surrounded it, and dragon‑horses pulled the sedan, making it especially magnificent.

He was already angry.

The situation instantly tightened; both sides were heated, causing many onlookers to frown.

Within the Immortal Sect, some felt that Gu Jin Nian was indeed arrogant; he sought aid from the sect yet adopted such an attitude, which was excessive, and refusing to lend it in that manner was detestable.

But others thought their own Immortal Sect need not act so; after all, Gu Jin Nian came for the people of Da Xia, and the sect's very purpose is to save all living beings; refusing to lend is already somewhat wrong, so why be so aggressive? Of course, few sect disciples share this view.

"Do you truly think you are remarkable?"

"Gu Saint?"

Elder Wang Xuan's voice rang out at that moment, booming like thunder.

He was indeed angry; in his view, Gu Jin Nian came to request a rain talisman, and when the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect refused, he acted as if to cause trouble, even uttering words that belittled the sect, which he could not tolerate.

So he spoke a few words.

Admittedly his retort was somewhat harsh, but it was meant to knock Gu Jin Nian down from his 'world's number one' posture, which could be considered a help to him.

What he did not expect was that Gu Jin Nian would be relentless, truly treating himself as what?

This is the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect, after all.

It is an Immortal Sect.

One of the strongest Immortal Sects in the Eastern Wilderness—could it be taken as a Buddhist sect?

"I do not think I am remarkable."

"I am merely stating facts; I said the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect is like a Buddhist sect, treating the people as ants, with overwhelming profit—what's wrong with that?"

"The people suffer, yet the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect has a rain talisman but refuses to lend it."

"The mountain fire in Donglin County is terrible, lives are scorched; you do not produce the rain talisman—when will you?"

"Furthermore, have I forced anything? I said that after the Da Xia calamities end, I will repay tenfold; should the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect ever need Da Xia's assistance, I, Gu, will certainly do my utmost to help the sect."

"Emotionally speaking, these years the Immortal Sect has received plenty of Da Xia's help in the Eastern Wilderness, hasn't it?"

"Logically, the people are paramount; the Immortal Sect saves the world, which is righteous."

"May I ask, is it I, Gu, who is remarkable, or is it you?"

Gu Jin Nian's voice grew louder; the fellow was being sarcastically ironic, calling him 'Gu Saint', which truly made people feel disgusted.

"What a fine statement about Da Xia's assistance!"

"The Supreme Profound Immortal Sect was founded earlier than the Da Xia Dynasty; isn't the Da Xia Dynasty reliant on us, the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect?"

"You truly are blinded by a single leaf."

"As for the people, they are indeed important, but how many of the world's people need the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect to save? Da Xia's calamities certainly scorch lives, but what about other places? Does the Great Jin Dynasty not have droughts? Does the Fuyu Dynasty not have droughts?"

"Is Da Xia the only realm facing trouble?"

"Gu Jin Nian, you speak so much simply because you are the first marquis of Da Xia; if the Da Xia Dynasty truly encounters problems, you are merely worried that your marquisate might become unstable, aren't you?"

"You constantly claim to act for the people, but I, a humble monk, see that you only care about your official rank."

The other side also became heated; his words each had merit, and in the end he pinpointed the core, attacking Gu Jin Nian.

When these words were spoken, many voices rang out within the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect.

"Indeed, they claim its name is for the people, but isn't that simply because you are a marquis?"

"If I were a Da Xia marquis, I would do the same—truly for the people. The world suffers so much; why not help everywhere?"

"Do you really think you have no selfish motives? What a joke."

"The elder's words are indeed fitting; the pompous grandeur truly shows how clever these scholars are."

Some clamor rose as the disciples of the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect voiced their agreement with Elder Wang Xuan's words.

"All quiet."

However, at that moment, a voice rang out, silencing all those disciples.

It was Xu Changge's voice.

A flash of light flickered; above the heavens, Xu Changge stood on a soaring sword, his gaze icy as he stared at the disciples of the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect.

"As cultivators, one should be enlightened; Gu Jin Nian, no matter what, cares for the common folk—whether the Da Xia people or the people of the world—he speaks for them. What are you doing here, sneering and mocking?"

"Do you even deserve to comment on the Heaven's Mandate Marquis?"

Xu Changge's voice rang out; he was truly angry.

When Gu Jin Nian arrived, he sensed it, but he did not step forward—not because he was unwilling, but because it was difficult, fearing a conflict.

After all, he was the senior brother of the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect and had some rapport with Gu Jin Nian; moreover, Gu Jin Nian's petitions for the people were vivid before his eyes, and he admired Gu Jin Nian's character.

Because of this, he was even less inclined to appear, yet at this moment he had no choice but to step forward.

To suppress the remarks of these disciples of the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect.

That was excessive; if it weren't for the crowd, he would have almost acted, personally silencing their foul mouths.

Xu Changge appeared.

At once, the disciples of the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect dared not speak; even if they disagreed inwardly, they could not continue to voice it.

"Brother Jin Nian."

"These disciples have never faced the world; their words are somewhat disrespectful. Please, Brother Jin Nian, be lenient."

In the next moment, Xu Changge came before Gu Jin Nian and performed a bow, kneeling toward him.

"Brother Xu, you are courteous."

"Gu (I) do not mind."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, shaking his head, indifferent to the rumors.

"Brother Jin Nian, these are two rain‑summoning talismans, a small token from Xu. Please forgive me, Brother Jin Nian."

Immediately, Xu Changge produced two rain‑summoning talismans and handed them to Gu Jin Nian.

Seeing the talismans, Gu Jin Nian bowed on the spot.

"Thank you, Brother Changge."

Regardless of any prior dispute, Xu Changge giving him the talismans now filled Gu Jin Nian with gratitude; though only two, they could save many common folk.

"Brother Changge, could I borrow a few more rain‑summoning talismans?"

"Gu (I) am willing to barter; spiritual crystals can be exchanged as well."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, too lazy to deal with Wang Xuan and unwilling to continue the quarrel.

His purpose in coming was the talismans; as long as he could obtain them without crossing his own line, Gu Jin Nian would accept.

"Brother Jin Nian."

"Two is the limit; I spent a fortune on these, and only obtained them by coincidence."

Xu Changge spoke.

At the same time he transmitted his voice.

"The Buddhist Sect has visited my Immortal Sect; the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect has changed recently. I am unclear on the details; many matters are beyond my control, but with Heaven's Mandate arriving, the Immortal Sect has already received some benefits. I cannot say more, Brother Jin Nian—do not argue, just leave."

Xu Changge's transmission subtly mentioned several matters, hoping Gu Jin Nian would cease arguing, for Gu Jin Nian would be the unlucky one.

He did not wish to see this, so he stepped forward and gave the rain‑summoning talismans to Gu Jin Nian.

Xu Changge's words also confirmed Gu Jin Nian's thoughts; indeed it involved the Buddhist Sect, and it seemed that his earlier request for Confucius to strike a blow against the Confucian and Taoist sects truly benefited the Immortal Sect.

Indeed, now both the Confucian and Taoist sects and the Buddhist Sect have each been slashed once; the Buddhist Sect, fortunately, only had its luck siphoned away by a dou.

The Immortal Sect itself is already strong; with rivals weakened, it has silently become the strongest existence.

Especially as Xu Changge just said, the Immortal Sect has already received the benefits of Heaven's Mandate; the specifics he could not reveal, but it served as a signal, reminding him not to continue the dispute.

"Thank you."

Gu Jin Nian took a deep breath.

Then he turned and left.

Since the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect refuses to aid the Da Xia Dynasty, so be it.

There is nothing more to say.

Just ensure the Immortal Sect makes no further requests of the Da Xia Dynasty.

Of course, Gu Jin Nian also knows that every faction has both good and bad people; some chase profit, some stay true to themselves, and there are indeed good people.

"Gu Sage, take care on your way."

However, as Gu Jin Nian departed, Elder Wang Xuan's voice rang out again.

Xu Changge's appearance made it difficult for him to continue; the head of the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect and the Grand Elder had indeed instructed that they must not offend Gu Jin Nian nor create any conflict with him.

If it were not for that sentence Gu Jin Nian said, he actually would not have wanted to speak.

But after the argument, his anger grew; he was already prepared—if Gu Jin Nian still dared to bluster, he would have to give Gu Jin Nian a proper lesson.

He did not expect Xu Changge to intervene and stir the situation.

Nevertheless, he still had means to make Gu Jin Nian suffer.

Boom—

In an instant, a talisman in his hand was torn apart, a thunderous crack sounded, and clusters of dark clouds gathered, covering dozens of miles.

Whoosh! Whoosh! Gale winds surged, accompanied by torrential rain pouring down.

Within the Immortal King's Jade Carriage.

Gu Jin Nian fell completely silent.

And Xu Changge, Xu Ya, Zhao Siqing, along with several elders in the main hall, all frowned.

These tactics are rather disgusting.

Gu Jin Nian had come to borrow rain‑summoning talismans; the Supreme Profound Immortal Sect refused, which in the end was nothing—if they wouldn't lend, they wouldn't, and any excuse they offered to deflect was acceptable.

Unexpectedly, Wang Xuan actually used this method to anger Gu Jin Nian.

Someone came requesting a rain talisman; it's fine if you don't lend it, but now that they've left, would you rather waste a rain talisman than give it to them?

Isn't this slapping someone in the face? Indeed, it's a bit excessive.

"Senior Brother Wang Xuan, this is somewhat inappropriate."

"Senior Brother Wang Xuan, why must you do this?"

"Offending Gu Jin Nian is not a good thing either; the Da Xia Dynasty has not truly perished yet."

"Senior Brother Wang Xuan, this is unnecessary."

In an instant, in the Great Hall, the elders rose; some were helpless, others angry.

The refusal to lend was for profit, but there's no need to be so disgusting; isn't this deliberately picking a fight with Gu Jin Nian? Why bother?

Gu Jin Nian has already left; what you're doing is truly meaningless.

Of course, a few elders remained silent, still tacitly supporting Wang Xuan.

Hearing the crowd speak up, Wang Xuan realized he had been a bit overbearing, but so what? He feared not Gu Jin Nian, and he wasn't being stubborn; he simply crossed his arms and stood, quietly watching the downpour.

The heavy rain poured down.

Gu Jin Nian turned, and his gaze at that moment showed a cold edge.

"Brother Jin Nian."

"First, go put out the fire."

"The other matters can wait."

Xu Changge was cursing Wang Xuan in his heart, but his first move was to persuade Gu Jin Nian.

"Lord Hou."

"There is another rain talisman; please, Lord Hou, take it and go save the common people."

In the Great Hall, a voice rang out—an elder who did not wish the stalemate to continue nor offend Gu Jin Nian, immediately produced a rain talisman.

The rain talisman instantly appeared before Gu Jin Nian; this was a platform.

Staring at the rain talisman.

Feeling the rain falling.

Gu Jin Nian expressionless, he slowly set down the two rain talismans, looked at Xu Changge, and said calmly,

"Brother Changge, this favor I, Gu, will remember in my heart; I, Gu, understand good and evil, but since the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect has acted this way toward my Da Xia people..."

"Then I, Gu, will no longer hope for the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's assistance."

Gu Jin Nian returned the rain talisman to Xu Changge, and bowed toward him; his gratitude was kept in Gu Jin Nian's heart.

However, the deeds of the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect truly chilled Gu Jin Nian's heart.

The common people of Donglin County suffered misfortune; at every moment, people were perishing in the sea of flames, and Da Xia soldiers were risking their lives to extinguish the fires.

They begged the sect for rain talismans, promising tenfold repayment; it may seem hollow, but Gu Jin Nian will certainly repay tenfold.

He doesn't want any merit to go to the sect at all.

The sect refused, which left nothing to say; after all, the items belong to others—if they don't lend them, what can be said?

Now, if they won't lend, they won't; yet they still do such a thing.

Better to waste it than give it to themselves.

Fine.

Truly excellent.

Very good! "Brother Jin Nian."

Xu Changge opened his mouth, intending to explain something, but Gu Jin Nian's voice had already sounded.

"I am Gu Jin Nian, Da Xia Heaven's Mandate Marquis; from today onward, the Da Xia Dynasty severs ties with the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect. All Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciples, unless ordered, may not enter the Da Xia Dynasty; violators will be considered at war with the sect."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He took several steps forward; his voice cracked like heavenly thunder, and his aura instantly spread at that moment.

Having reached this point, the split is direct; no more dithering.

If you don't give me face, I don't need to give you face either.

Indeed.

Upon hearing this, some elder disciples of the sect's faces changed; they feared the Da Xia Dynasty but truly did not wish to offend it, as many matters still required Da Xia's help.

For example, the selection of disciples requires the Da Xia Dynasty's assistance.

Now that relations have severed, it's not a good thing; moreover, Gu Jin Nian's restriction order poses real trouble.

In the Great Hall.

Some elders couldn't help but glare at Wang Xuan, thinking this guy was truly ill, why offend Gu Jin Nian? Originally they wouldn't lend; even if Gu Jin Nian were angry, he could only keep it in his heart.

Now it's come to this, having to go this far, causing such a scene—it's just idle trouble, right?

"Wang Xuan, what exactly are you trying to do?"

"Why must it reach this point?"

Some voices rose; they could no longer hold back.

"Is it me who is causing trouble? No, it's him."

"I, a humble monk, defend the sect's dignity—could that be wrong?"

Wang Xuan spoke up, somewhat dissenting.

"Elder Wang Xuan is correct; Gu Jin Nian is so overbearing, why should the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect tolerate it?"

"Indeed, why should the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect tolerate? We are a sect; are we afraid of a marquis?"

There were also those who supported Wang Xuan, unable to stand Gu Jin Nian.

If it were in the past, indeed we could not have escalated to this point, but now our immortal sect has already received part of Heaven's Mandate's benefits; it won't be long before the sect completes its metamorphosis, and then, not to mention the Da Xia Dynasty, even the Central Continent Dynasty would be of no consequence.

What is there to fear?

An elder spoke, and a single sentence instantly made Elder Wang Xuan and the others confident, while causing several other elders to fall silent.

Because what he said was correct.

At this moment, the immortal sect has already seized part of the initiative.

However, a majestic voice resonated from deep within the Great Profound Immortal Sect.

"Your words."

"Cannot represent the Da Xia Dynasty."

"I have no rain-request talisman, but this humble monk cares for the world and wishes to inform you of something: a great wind is about to arise. Rather than squabble here and waste time, it would be better to find a way soon to resolve the mountain fire crisis in Donglin County."

"Return now."

The voice was filled with vicissitudes, lacking any arrogance or ferocity, yet it sounded indisputable.

It was the voice of the Supreme Elder of the Great Profound Immortal Sect.

He did not argue with Gu Jin Nian, and incidentally reminded Gu Jin Nian of this matter.

Upon hearing that voice, Gu Jin Nian said little.

Speaking more would be useless.

At present, only resolving the Donglin County crisis is the most important matter.

He kept the Great Profound Immortal Sect's affairs in his heart.

This matter will remain unresolved until the disaster in Donglin County ends.

Thus.

Gu Jin Nian rode the Immortal King's Jade Carriage and left the Great Profound Immortal Sect.

"Wang Xuan, enter the Immortal Realm."

However, after Gu Jin Nian departed, the Supreme Elder's voice sounded, urging Wang Xuan to enter the Immortal Realm.

Only the Supreme Elder's tone was somewhat cold, seeming dissatisfied with Wang Xuan's actions.

Indeed, it mattered not how he argued with Gu Jin Nian; using a rain-request talisman to enrage Gu Jin Nian was not a good deed.

When it spread, regardless, the Great Profound Immortal Sect was at fault.

How would the common folk view it? Originally, not borrowing was fine and could be explained in countless ways, but now wasting a rain-request talisman might inevitably become a talking point later.

Hearing this, Wang Xuan's complexion changed slightly; he was nervous and a bit fearful, yet he still rose and walked toward the Immortal Realm.

Thus.

In the blink of an eye.

A day passed.

Within that day.

Gu Jin Nian rode the Immortal King's Jade Carriage and almost visited every immortal sect, including the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, the Empty Moon Immortal Sect, and so on.

Each immortal sect gave almost the same response.

"We do not lend."

However, some sects did lend, though only a few—one or two talismans at most.

Moreover, Gu Jin Nian did not go to ask; the other side, upon hearing, delivered them personally.

These sects are small, incomparable to the Great Profound Immortal Sect.

They cannot leave the Eastern Wilderness Realm themselves; otherwise, they could seek assistance from other immortal sects elsewhere.

The immortal sects within the Eastern Wilderness are intentionally excluding the Da Xia Dynasty, or rather, excluding themselves.

It is evident—they are clearly exclusive.

They have already joined forces.

Just when Gu Jin Nian was at a loss, suddenly a flash of insight struck his mind.

"How could I have forgotten this?"

Within the jade carriage, Gu Jin Nian suddenly thought of a solution.

At that moment, a voice suddenly sounded from outside.

"Brother Jin Nian!"

(End of Chapter)