Chapter 235: Gu Jin Nian's Ferocious Might, Establishing the Heavenly Contract, Pan Mountain Revives, Stopping the Killing of the Fiv

It startled the world.

Originally, Prince Ning's rebellion was the focus of everyone's attention, but unexpectedly, Pan Mountain erupted at this critical moment.

This is a good thing, at least it greatly eases the situation of the Da Xia Dynasty, for the current Da Xia Dynasty is truly in a bind.

Now that Pan Mountain has erupted, the world's gaze converges on Pan Mountain.

Naturally, no one continues to care about a prince's rebellion.

In the past, such an event in the Da Xia Dynasty would have shocked the world, but with the Great Era's arrival, more and more people are concerned with matters of Heaven's Mandate.

The ancient Pan Mountain is shrouded in thunder; through the mist, people see a towering figure, like a Thunder God, standing above the thunder zone.

The phantom of the Thunder God appears, a war drum tied to its waist; when struck, thunder roars, and mountains and rivers for a hundred thousand li tremble incessantly.

Its terrifying aura is shocking, surpassing that of Puyuan Mountain and Tianqi Mountain.

"This is an ultimate aura, already at the Seventh Realm, combined with a natural Divine Artifact; only those of the Seventh Realm can enter,"

"Such an aura surpasses the previous two Divine Mountains; even a Seventh Realm strongman would likely find it hard to conquer,"

"The revived Divine Mountains will only grow stronger; at this level, they become Seventh Realm beasts,"

People gasp in disbelief; the first Divine Mountain was Puyuan Mountain, which the Shangqing Daoist captured with the Xuanhuang Tower, obtaining the Star Ancient Tree,

The second Divine Mountain was Tianqi Mountain; three celestial artifacts could not suppress it, yet in the end they obtained the Lotus Seed.

Now, this third Pan Mountain, with thunder towering, exudes a terrifying momentum that shocks.

"Within Pan Mountain lies an unparalleled Divine Artifact related to thunder; obtaining a treasure here would far surpass the previous Divine Mountains,"

"A true struggle has begun, a battle of the Seventh Realm; this great war will let the world know who the ruler of the new era truly is,"

"Without the Seventh Realm, entry is forbidden; otherwise, death is certain,"

Voices rise one after another, and people are stunned by Pan Mountain's transformation.

But soon, an even more astonishing change appears; someone sees that within Pan Mountain, a celestial pool has emerged, filled with Thunder Liquid.

This is incredible.

Thunder Liquid requires tens of thousands of thunderbolts to condense into a single drop, and that drop can make a person grow younger, heal grievous wounds; even if you are near death, ingesting a drop can resurrect you.

"If one can advance and absorb this Thunder Liquid, it offers endless benefits to a warrior, allowing transformation into the Seventh Realm and becoming a Martial Emperor strongman,"

Someone speculates, their eyes filled with longing for the benefits of this Thunder Liquid, yet they cannot obtain it, lacking qualification; everyone knows, "Beyond that, possessing such Thunder Liquid can forge a terrifying physique linked to thunder, making one a standout in the future Great Era,"

"Unfortunately, this Thunder Pool is perfect for a warrior's cultivation, yet among all Seventh Realm strongmen in the world, not a single warrior exists,"

Some voices rise, expressing regret.

【7】 "Who says a warrior is required? As Seventh Realm cultivators, once they reach this level, mastering one law leads to mastering all laws,"

Who said one definitely needs a martial artist? They are seventh-realm cultivators; having reached this level, mastery of one law means mastery of all laws.

"Take the Shangqing Daoist, for instance; if he absorbs this Thunder Liquid, his physique will transform, granting thunder power, and he can still use this chance to walk the martial path, merging immortal and martial prowess,"

Someone shakes their head, believing that such a celestial treasure benefits anyone at the Seventh Realm, regardless of whether they are a sectarian of the Immortal Path or the Buddhist Path.

As these remarks arise, more people sigh, noting that the Great Era's contest progresses slowly, truly step by step.

If one does not seize the chance now, soaring to the heavens later will be difficult.

No qualification to participate.

Soon, the Shangqing Daoist, bearing the Xuanhuang Tower, converges with the Dragon‑Tiger Sect Master and the Yin‑Yang Sect Master, heading straight to the foot of Pan Mountain. The Shangqing Daoist is flamboyant: the Xuanhuang Tower crowns his head, he wields the Star Ancient Tree, and an ancient aura emanates from him—Chi Huang Battle Armor, a celestial relic sought by Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciples; though not surpassing the Nine Great Divine Artifacts, it is not weak.

It can be called a celestial artifact.

The Shangqing Daoist's appearance makes Zhang Zhenren and the Yin‑Yang Sect Master immensely envious.

Especially Zhang Zhenren; although he has broken through the Seventh Realm, he possesses no other exotic treasures, only the Dragon‑Tiger Treasure Furnace. The Yin‑Yang Sect Master is similar, with a Yin‑Yang Celestial Mirror atop his head; compared to the Shangqing Daoist, they appear modest.

"This place is extraordinary; there must be a peerless treasure. The Buddhist sect might interfere, but the three of us together can at least control the great destiny,"

The Shangqing Daoist speaks, projecting his voice with divine perception, seeking to form an alliance here.

Today, Seventh Realm strongmen across the world are not limited to them; the Buddhist sect has five, plus three supreme Buddhist artifacts, forming a force not to be underestimated.

"Good."

"The Shangqing Daoist's words are correct."

Both nod in unison and immediately agree.

"However, why does the Wan Xing Ancient Sect's Sect Master delay joining us? He seems never to have taken part in these matters,"

"That's strange."

Zhang Zhenren speaks, mentioning the Wan Xing Ancient Sect's Sect Master.

Wan Xing Ancient Sect also possesses celestial artifacts, likely among the earliest to obtain destiny, yet they have never emerged; after Heaven's Mandate descended, they spoke a few words, and otherwise seemed to have vanished from the world.

All the Divine Mountains revived, yet they did not participate; this is indeed odd.

"Unclear; they probably have other plans. We should ignore them for now and focus on our own affairs,"

The Shangqing Daoist also finds it odd, but he no longer cares what others do, only desiring to seize the treasure.

"Good."

Zhang Zhenren and the Yin‑Yang Sect Master also say nothing further.

Thus.

In less than an hour, the two Buddhist Buddhas indeed arrived, the two Buddhas of the Shangxing Secret Sect; they have now all reached the Nirvana Realm, surrounded by radiant treasure light, with multiple Buddha silhouettes, golden light flashing, standing on Golden Lotus, appearing extraordinarily distinguished—truly a striking sight.

The two great Buddhist Buddhas appear, meeting the Shangqing Daoist; their faces full of smiles, the crowd feigns politeness while quietly awaiting the complete dispersal of Pan Mountain's formation array.

Meanwhile,

Da Xia Dynasty.

Outside the Grand Temple.

Emerging from the Grand Temple, Gu Jin Nian has already sensed Pan Mountain's aura; he stands outside the Grand Temple, gazing tens of thousands of li into the distance.

Within Pan Mountain, dense mist swirls; a humanoid figure appears, like thunder itself, surrounded by flashing lightning, a war drum at its waist, looking terrifying.

Yet the Thunder Pool fills Gu Jin Nian with anticipation; he feels that this Thunder Pool can help him step into the Seventh Realm of the martial path.

It's just that the creatures in Pan Mountain are very strong, beasts among beasts, already having entered the Seventh Realm; dealing with them will be difficult, especially since Pan Mountain also houses the Shangqing Taoists.

The process will inevitably be arduous.

"By obtaining Pan Mountain's nurture, I can step into the Seven Realms of Martial Dao, achieve Inner Sage, Outer King, Great Vehicle, ascend one level, and surpass all Seventh Realm masters."

Gu Jin Nian murmured to himself.

"But the Pan Mountain formation hasn't completely dissipated yet; we need to wait a few days."

"Hand these items over to Lao Jiu, properly handle Da Xia's affairs, and then we can set out for Pan Mountain."

Gu Jin Nian spoke inwardly; soon his figure vanished and he arrived directly inside the Hall of Nurturing the Heart.

However, on the way to the Hall, some voices sounded beside his ear.

"Prince Ning truly oversteps his deceit; three times he refused peace talks, as if openly giving Da Xia an embarrassment."

"As a Da Xia prince, he colludes with the enemy and betrays the nation—truly detestable. The Xiongnu killed our border soldiers, yet Prince Ning denies this fact; for the throne, does he have no shame at all?"

"Now Prince Ning has allied with the Alliance; Da Xia is truly powerless."

"Alas, the blame lies in His Majesty's failure to root out the problem, allowing Jian De to flee. Now Jian De reappears; we have no standing, and Gu Sheng and Su Sheng cannot step forward."

Voices rang out one after another.

This is the voice of the people.

As a saint, Gu Jin Nian can hear the people's voice—not that he hears every commoner's utterance, but the more the populace discusses the nation's affairs, the more he perceives that voice.

This is the saint's ability: knowing all, able to prevent officials from harming the people, since a saint can hear popular grievances and act to resolve them.

After hearing this news, Gu Jin Nian roughly understood what had recently occurred.

His expression changed in an instant.

Outside the Hall of Nurturing the Heart.

Gu Jin Nian appeared there; Wei Xian and Liu Yan stood guard outside the hall, and upon seeing Gu Jin Nian's figure, they instantly became exceedingly respectful.

"We have seen the saint."

Their reverent voices were loud, startling the Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor inside the Hall.

Gu Jin Nian nodded, then proceeded straight toward the Hall.

"Jin Nian, have you completed your enlightenment?"

Inside the Hall, the Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor, upon hearing Gu Jin Nian's arrival, rose and spoke, his face full of smiles.

But seeing Gu Jin Nian's calm demeanor, he realized Gu Jin Nian likely already knew what had happened.

"Lao Jiu, Prince Ning rebelled; why didn't you inform me earlier?"

Now a saint, Gu Jin Nian is no longer as restrained; he asked directly, addressing the Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor.

"You are immersed in enlightenment; how could Lao Jiu disturb you?"

"Lao Jiu will handle Prince Ning's matter. Jin Nian, the Great World Conflict has been ongoing for so long; the two sacred mountains have revived—you cannot delay any longer; act swiftly."

"A qilin has manifested on Western Zhou Mountain; that qilin must be connected to you. Hurry to the mountain and lie in wait; perhaps in a few days Lao Jiu can see the auspicious beast with his own eyes."

The Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor replied dismissively, not wanting to place the pressure on Gu Jin Nian.

"Lao Jiu."

"I understand you don't want me involved; I am a saint, this matter belongs to the previous generation. If I take part, it would be worse."

"But Lao Jiu, remember I am your nephew, also a Da Xia citizen, a Heaven's Mandate Marquis; in this matter, I can completely set aside my saintly status."

"Fight them."

Gu Jin Nian understood the Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor's thinking, yet he cared not; Prince Ning, by leveraging Emperor Jian De, prevented him from acting.

But Gu Jin Nian truly did not follow his script.

"Jin Nian, this matter is indeed complex; your involvement would be unwise. Rest assured, I have a solution. By the way, have you finished the Sky Dome Battlecraft? The barracks have completed training."

The Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor still did not wish Gu Jin Nian to appear.

"Lao Jiu, my nephew practices unity of knowledge and action, indifferent to worldly eyes; their scheming has no effect on me,"

"If this isn't dealt with quickly, when Prince Ning establishes New Xia, the national destiny will be divided. Lao Jiu, don't you see?"

After this enlightenment of the saintly Dao, Gu Jin Nian understood his own unity of knowledge and action, achieving sincere conscience.

As long as the goal is righteous and the outcome correct, there's no need to heed worldly opinions or let anyone shackle oneself.

Don't try to suppress yourself with morality; you are a saint, only you can impose moral shackles on others—who would bind a saint with morality? Joke, right?

Listening to Gu Jin Nian's words, the Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor fell silent for a moment, then after a brief contemplation, looked at Gu Jin Nian and said,

"Jin Nian, the biggest problem with the current situation is that in a conventional war, Da Xia cannot crush the opponent."

"But if you act, they will also dispatch Seventh Realm forces; how can that be resolved?"

The Eternal Prosperous Great Emperor, persuaded by Gu Jin Nian, therefore raised a pivotal question.

"Who says I will act?"

"Lao Jiu, the battlecraft has been forged; isn't Prince Ning establishing a new state in three months?"

"In three months, we can fast‑track training a group to pilot the battlecraft."

"I have taken the Li Yang Tripod; I will join the contest for Pan Mountain, and will continue forging battlecraft during the process."

"After three months, a thousand pilots will suffice to operate the Sky Dome Battlecraft, delivering devastating aerial strikes."

"There are also Oceanic Treasure Ships; I will forge some, to target the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty at sea."

"If they seek aid, we will strike until they submit."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his expression unwavering.

There are still three months left; we can continue forging another batch, but he must first go to Pan Mountain to claim the treasure.

So only one batch can be forged.

This batch is sufficient: a thousand Sky Dome Battlecraft plus five Oceanic Treasure Ships to dominate the Eastern Wilderness; the Fuyu and Great Jin Dynasties are too much to swallow in one go.

But the Xiongnu Nation, plus the other states, aren't they easily subdued?

"Did you forge a thousand?"

Emperor Yong Sheng swallowed a mouthful of saliva; it took him half a year to forge his battle armor. In theory, Gu Jin Nian should need three months to forge the fighters, and Emperor Yong Sheng thought he could only manage a few at most.

"No, only a little over a hundred. When we return this time, even if we can't bring a thousand, there will be five hundred."

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

"Fine."

"If we have that many fighters, the problem will be solved."

"If they dare to employ the Seventh Realm first, Jin Nian, don't hold back."

Emperor Yong Sheng said excitedly.

"Alright, old uncle, leave this matter to me."

"Da Xia need not fear; in three months, we will slay King Ning and annihilate the Xiongnu."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his expression resolute.

"Fine!"

Emperor Yong Sheng laughed heartily, and the gloom between his brows vanished completely.

"Old uncle, let's go and test the effect."

Gu Jin Nian smiled, said nothing more, and led Emperor Yong Sheng straight to the test.

Hearing this, Emperor Yong Sheng also became excited.

He really wanted to see how powerful this thing was.

At once, he followed Gu Jin Nian and left.

The two rode a dragon boat, and under Gu Jin Nian's saintly blessing, arrived in Da Xia's eastern region, a coastal area where Da Xia's new military camp stood.

However, the new camp looked very odd, filled with all sorts of strange implements, and the soldiers trained there.

With Gu Jin Nian and Emperor Yong Sheng's arrival, the camp instantly became bustling.

The person in charge of the camp was Gu Jin Nian's third uncle, formerly a great general of the Xuanwu Camp, now the president of Da Xia's Dragon Army, holding a senior second rank—essentially a top military official; first rank is a duke.

Upon Gu Jin Nian's arrival, he exchanged a few words with his third uncle, then asked him to bring the trained soldiers.

These soldiers were all trained; Gu Jin Nian's training method was simple—using small dragon boats for drills.

Now, Gu Jin Nian arrived at an open field and brought out all the Sky Dome fighters.

This left everyone astonished.

This is top secret, so the soldiers who came will not leave; for the next three months they can only train here.

The fighters appeared.

Everyone gazed at the golden‑shimmering fighters, feeling an indescribable, very strange aura; the cold atmosphere also inspired awe.

Gu Jin Nian didn't waste time; he personally piloted a fighter and performed an aerial display for the crowd.

This is a world of immortal martial arts; naturally, many things can be handled with formation arrays, without needing delicate instruments.

Gu Jin Nian controlled a Sky Dome fighter, soaring in the sky; the fighter can reach up to fifty thousand meters altitude, and thanks to its materials, it can resist both heat and ice.

Moreover, a martial artist of the Fourth Realm can practice fetal breathing, so the oxygen‑thin altitude does not affect them—this is truly exaggerated and terrifying.

After the aerial show, Gu Jin Nian began to demonstrate the fighter's power.

Sky Dome No. 1, equipped with two Dragon Gate cannons, aimed at a small hill.

These Dragon Gate cannons have been tempered and blessed by the nation's fortune; they are engraved with a spirit‑gathering formation that can release two types of ammunition.

One type is a spiritual energy shell, requiring no aid, with slightly weaker power.

The other type loads Da Xia shells, also tempered and blessed, delivering maximum power.

Boom! A terrifying beam erupted, shattering the peak of the small hill. The massive explosion left mouths agape; this is almost Sixth Realm strength.

Thousands of soldiers, Emperor Yong Sheng, and Gu Jin Nian's third uncle were all stunned.

With this aircraft, one can perfectly cross the Northwestern Second Realm's city walls; once over, such explosive power could slaughter thousands.

But soon, something even more astonishing occurred.

The Sky Dome fighter swooped over a great mountain and dropped two shells.

In an instant, a terrifying explosion roared, forming a dreadful mushroom cloud; within a ten‑mile radius everything vanished, flames blazed, and the intense light dazzled.

"What is happening?"

"Is the power really that strong?"

"And this kind of method?"

Everyone was shocked; they had fought all their lives and had never seen such a display.

This explosive power rivals the peak of the Sixth Realm.

And this is only one fighter's power; Gu Jin Nian has produced two hundred. At this moment, Emperor Yong Sheng's mind conjured a scene.

King Ning shouted atop the city wall, the Xiongnu iron cavalry roared majestically, envoys from the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty laughed and chatted on the walls.

Then a hundred Sky Dome No. 1s swept by, dropping these shells—what a spectacular sight.

This is simply an invincible artifact.

"If only I had one of these twenty years ago, I wouldn't have to work so hard."

"If this were in my father's hands, Da Xia would have unified the world long ago, wouldn't it?"

"No, now that I have this, Da Xia will unify the world."

Emperor Yong Sheng's heart raced; he realized the purpose of this device—terrifying.

However, soon Emperor Yong Sheng calmed down; the device's power is indeed great, but its limit is probably only the Sixth Realm peak. Now the Great Era has arrived, and many Seventh Realm masters exist.

For Seventh Realm masters, this may mean little; it's only useful for total or regional wars—against a single Seventh Realm master, a hundred units couldn't hold.

Soon.

Gu Jin Nian piloted Sky Dome No. 1 back to the original spot, stepped down from the fighter, and felt many insights.

"The fighter has no major issues now."

"From now on, the Engineering Department will keep improving, and the coordination will be better."

"The main issue is still gunpowder; firepower decides everything. These shells were tempered in the Li Yang Cauldron, which is why they're so powerful. There are currently six thousand of them, all reinforced through tempering."

"In the future, let the Engineering Department study gunpowder thoroughly and strive to invent a stronger powder, ideally one that doesn't need tempering yet has the same power as these."

"If that's the case, I'll temper it again, boost it tenfold, and it'll be equivalent to a nuclear bomb."

"With thousands of nuclear bombs, under their baptism even Seventh Realm strongmen would die."

"In the great era to come, countless forces will arise. Whoever dares to provoke me, a thousand nuclear bombs will level a cultivation site."

Gu Jin Nian thought to himself.

Radiation is the strongest aspect of a nuclear bomb, but Gu Jin Nian can't produce that; the Da Xia Dynasty is still in an agricultural age, not even touching the fringes of industry.

Creating a radiation nuclear bomb is out of the question, but making purely high‑power ammunition is still feasible, using compression methods and letting the Engineering Department study it bit by bit.

With so many people in the Engineering Department, a decade or eight of diligent research, plus his own direction and ideas, why fear failure? As long as they produce ammunition of such extreme power that can demolish a mountain without Li Yang Cauldron tempering, Gu Jin Nian can augment it— isn't that a nuclear bomb?

Honestly, this isn't a dream nor far off; if he grasps it properly, it will surely be achieved in the coming years.

Thinking this, Gu Jin Nian couldn't help but walk forward.

He explained the fighter's operating methods and all points to watch to everyone.

With a wave of his hand, a flood of data appeared—knowledge from Gu Jin Nian's mind compiled into books, imbued with lofty righteousness, needing no writing at all.

With these materials, after another half‑month of familiarization, they could dive fully into actual combat.

Thus.

Gu Jin Nian stayed in the camp, personally watching everyone train the fighters; he stood beside them, pointing out problems immediately.

Completing the initial training also makes people remember every detail; they must follow the procedure and never act recklessly.

However, Gu Jin Nian's elder uncle and third uncle also came to join the fun, each taking a fighter and enjoying themselves immensely.

It was a good thing; Gu Jin Nian said nothing, letting them play at ease, the better they became familiar.

Thus.

In the blink of an eye.

Ten days passed.

All fighters underwent covert training daily, deliberately seeking an uninhabited area in the east; the place was barren, protected by a massive formation, extremely hidden.

The trainees also practiced atop the sky dome thousands of zhang high; those below knew nothing, hearing only occasional roars and sonic booms, no other sounds.

Finally.

The tenth day.

The mountain's aura grew stronger, the formation was about to dissipate, and Gu Jin Nian chose to depart.

But Emperor Yongsheng grabbed Gu Jin Nian and said something.

"Jin Nian."

"Regarding the fighter, don't tell your grandfather yet."

It was the elder uncle's request.

Although he didn't understand what the elder uncle meant, Gu Jin Nian still agreed.

Thus, after Gu Jin Nian left, Emperor Yongsheng immediately wrote an imperial decree to send back.

"By decree, the Lord of the State shall be Supreme Commander of the Three Armies, to eradicate rebels and subdue the Xiongnu Nation."

This was Emperor Yongsheng's will.

With the Sky Dome fighters, he never wanted any Supreme Commander of the Three Armies, leading a massive troop to war— isn't it more thrilling to lead an aerial squad to slay enemies? Let the Lord of the State handle land battles peacefully.

He would make his entrance in a way that shocked the world.

Thinking this, Emperor Yongsheng couldn't help but rejoice, trembling with excitement.

The day of the great battle.

A thousand Sky Dome fighters, with thunderous force, would crush everything, shaking the world— how could this not be enjoyable?

Meanwhile.

Da Xia Dynasty.

Northwest Border.

Taiyuan Ancient City.

The city wall was thick and jet‑black, scarred with countless blade and spear marks, later fire‑scorch marks; time has left far too many traces upon it.

The wall towered, reaching sixty to seventy zhang—exaggerated, since typical walls are about thirty zhang high—making it easy to defend yet hard to assault.

Upon the wall, soldiers clad in battle armor already stood in full ranks, each ready, with abundant supplies behind them, seemingly prepared for anything.

At that moment, a figure slowly floated onto the wall.

It was Gu Jin Nian's figure. He stood in the void, his gaze calm.

"Enemy attack!"

"Enemy attack!"

"Enemy attack!"

In an instant, voices rang out, followed by war drums echoing throughout the ancient city.

Pairs of eyes turned toward them.

When they realized it was Gu Jin Nian, many paled; the soldiers on the wall fell silent, daring not to speak to Gu Jin Nian, even the enemy‑attack warning was left unsaid.

He is a sage, after all.

When a sage of the age, who dares to stop him? "King Ning!"

"Get out for me."

A cold, sharp voice rang out; atop the city wall, Gu Jin Nian stood with his arms crossed, his gaze icy as it locked onto the distant King Ning's manor.

Although Da Xia possesses Sky Dome warships that could decide the outcome in the future, Gu Jin Nian still wishes to give King Ning a chance; he does not want to create a massive slaughter.

"The sage's might truly is terrifying."

At that moment, a voice sounded—not from this ancient city but from the Immortal Gate, the Supreme Elder of the Great Profound Immortal Sect.

He spoke first, offering a response.

"I, the saint, command King Ning to appear; why are you interjecting?"

Upon hearing the Supreme Elder of the Great Profound Immortal Sect, Gu Jin Nian's heart grew even colder; that sect boasts two great Seventh Realm masters, giving them ample confidence.

"King Ning is one of the Alliance members; Saint Gu, you press people with your power—why can't the principal speak out?"

The other side replied, matching his words point for point.

"Amitabha."

"Saint Gu, as a sage you blurt out, you retreat, it's truly unbecoming; you should know to speak and act with caution."

A Buddhist voice sounded—the Abbot of Great Sound Temple, now a Nirvana Realm master; his words actually signal to Gu Jin Nian that the Buddhist sect backs King Ning.

"Your mother."

"How can I, the saint, speak when you get to teach me?"

"A mere Nirvana Realm, you dare to instruct the saint?"

A frigid voice rang out, and Gu Jin Nian retorted on the spot.

In an instant, countless people fell silent.

They clicked their tongues, bewildered.

After all, Gu Jin Nian, being a sage, is so ferocious; one could say it's unbecoming of a gentleman, and indeed it is a bit so, but he is a sage after all.

How many would dare criticize a sage? Yet subconsciously one feels a sage should mind his conduct.

"A mere Nirvana Realm, Saint Gu truly is remarkable; the Buddhist Seventh Realm, in Saint Gu's mouth, is just a trifle?"

The Abbot of Great Sound Temple felt somewhat displeased.

He couldn't help but speak.

Damn, the Nirvana Realm—this is the pinnacle countless Buddhists pursue, yet to Gu Jin Nian's mouth it's just a trifle!

Who are you looking down upon? "How?"

"Not convinced?"

"Then let's have a fight."

"Both of you, go together to the Western Desert, unleash yourselves."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, and as he did, immortal artifacts, Buddhist artifacts, and holy artifacts floated behind him, along with a Bodhi ancient tree phenomenon, a Hundreds of Schools phenomenon; tens of thousands of miles of mountains and rivers were illuminated. He did nothing, yet just this display was overwhelming.

Boom—boom—boom.

Space trembled, heaven and earth changed color; with Heaven's Mandate descending, the immortal and Buddhist artifacts were unlocked, and Gu Jin Nian alone possessed numerous divine objects.

And he remains a sage; once activated, indeed no one can stand against him.

Moreover, with Gu Jin Nian declaring a battle in the Western Desert, all the monks there were somewhat panicked.

Seventh Realm masters, unleash yourselves in a great war in the Western Desert—won't that devastate heaven and earth? Can these newly revived divine mountain dragon veins endure such a clash with Gu Jin Nian?

The faces of those in the Western Desert changed dramatically; they do not wish such events to occur.

The Abbot of Great Sound Temple fell silent, daring not to reply, for he knew Gu Jin Nian kept his word.

"Saint Gu, King Ning establishing New Xia is in accordance with Heaven's will, not defying it."

"May I ask, Saint Gu, is Emperor Jiande the true dragon Son of Heaven of Da Xia?"

At this moment, the Supreme Elder's voice rang out, calm as he inquired about the matter.

"Only one who gains the people's will may claim the throne."

Gu Jin Nian spoke lightly; the point is simple—stop babbling about Heaven's Mandate or not; whoever wins the people's will can become emperor, saying more is pointless. "Then what does the sage intend?"

"Start the war?"

"Or declare war?"

"Saint Gu, though you are a sage and possess countless artifacts, what does that matter? If you truly declare war, Saint Gu won't fare any better, will you?"

The Supreme Elder spoke, his words calm, making the meaning even more direct.

If we truly fight, who fears whom?

"Then let the war begin."

Upon hearing that, Gu Jin Nian replied coldly; in an instant, a terrifying aura radiated from his body, and the entire Northwestern region was instantly shrouded by this annihilating aura.

This is the sage's aura, spanning the crowns of past and present.

Everyone frowned, their complexion unpleasing; the reason was simple—they hadn't expected Gu Jin Nian to be so unyielding.

Can't he be soft once?

Even just once.

"Saint Gu."

"Do you think this is acceptable?"

"Since this is a matter among mortals, let mortals handle it themselves; we shall not partake, okay?"

The Abbot of Great Sound Temple spoke, easing the awkwardness; at this stage they had no desire to clash with Gu Jin Nian, as it was meaningless.

Hearing this, Gu Jin Nian fell silent for a moment.

He stared at it all, his gaze fixed on King Ning's manor.

The latter's body grew cold, his hair stood on end, his frame trembled; after all, it was the saint's gaze, and he naturally felt fear.

"Fine."

"Matters of the dynasty shall be resolved by the dynasty itself."

"Any cultivator or warrior of Fifth Realm or above who intervenes shall be slain by this saint without hesitation; if you dare to block, you shall be executed together. Is that acceptable?"

Gu Jin Nian spoke.

He intended it that way; otherwise, if a real fight broke out, he would have no advantage and no benefit.

"Agreed."

"Good."

The two agreed, and Gu Jin Nian, without further ado, directly formed a Heaven‑and‑Earth seal.

"If you agree, you will directly possess a primordial spirit; those who betray shall suffer heavenly punishment."

Gu Jin Nian spoke again, saying this.

His voice rang across the Shenzhou Continent, audible to all Seventh Realm cultivators.

At this moment, the major Seventh Realm cultivators fell silent, but upon reflection, they saw no great problem, for they feared not the wars between dynasties.

Even if the Da Xia Dynasty were extremely strong, could it simultaneously defeat the Fuyu Dynasty, the Great Jin Dynasty, and the Xiongnu Nation? With the power of a single nation resisting three great dynasties, is that possible? At that moment, seal after seal merged into it.

The Shangqing Daoist, Zhang Zhenren, and the Yin Yang Palm Sect all contributed seals.

Only after all Seventh Realm strongmen had merged their seals did Gu Jin Nian feel satisfied.

With this net in place, when the great war begins, he would not fear any betrayal from them, unless they were willing to bear heavenly retribution.

"Gu Saint, are you satisfied now?"

The Supreme Elder asked.

"In three months."

"Da Xia Iron Cavalry will push across the Northwest Second Realm; all civilians shall leave the main battlefield. This saint knows you have no intention of getting involved in this great war, so withdraw on your own to avoid a tragic reckoning."

"Xiongnu Nation, in three months, will trample the royal court, clean your throats, and await death."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, left these words, and then vanished.

He headed toward Pan Mountain.

Within the city, Prince Ning heard the words and wore a grim expression.

"Truly laughable. Even if Da Xia Iron Cavalry sends three million troops, they cannot hope to trample the royal court; as long as the saint does not appear, why should we Xiongnu fear?"

The Xiongnu envoy spoke coldly, his eyes icy.

"Your Highness, rest assured; since Gu Jin Nian has forged a Heaven‑and‑Earth covenant, the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty will immediately dispatch reinforcements."

The Great Jin envoy also spoke, noting that Prince Ning seemed uneasy; now that Gu Jin Nian has made such a covenant, they would simply cut ties outright.

They fear nothing else.

"I trouble you all, then."

Upon hearing this, Prince Ning nodded, and the worry in his eyes faded.

He simply did not believe it.

The Da Xia Dynasty could annihilate its own million‑strong army, plus all these reinforcements.

With what can they fight?

At the same time.

A shocking rumor spread.

Gu Jin Nian went to Pan Mountain.

The matter spread in an instant.

Gu Jin Nian's words within the Da Xia Dynasty were not disseminated, after all it was a dynastic conflict.

However, Gu Jin Nian's arrival at Pan Mountain was the truly earth‑shattering news.

The reason was simple: the Great Era had arrived, the Divine Mountain revived, and everyone assumed Gu Jin Nian would take part, yet he never appeared.

Puyuan Mountain and Tianqi Mountain both lacked any sign of Gu Jin Nian, which was very strange.

Now, Gu Jin Nian's descent to Pan Mountain means a world‑shaking war is about to begin.

Gu Jin Nian, the Shangqing Daoist, Zhang Zhenren, the Yin Yang Palm Sect, plus two Buddhas of the Buddhist Sect and five Seventh Realm strongmen, all hold grudges with Gu Jin Nian.

If Gu Jin Nian ascends Pan Mountain, a world‑shattering battle between them is inevitable.

Pan Mountain.

In an instant, the world turned its gaze.

At this very moment.

Below Pan Mountain.

Terrifying thunder roared, the heavens cloaked in black clouds, looking especially ominous.

And Gu Jin Nian's figure stood towering beneath Pan Mountain.

The Shangqing Daoist, Zhang Zhenren and others also gathered elsewhere.

All Seventh Realm strongmen assembled; beneath Pan Mountain, the numbers were not great, yet at a glance there were thousands of elders, whose lifespans had reached their limit, eager to risk death for a chance.

"Gu Saint."

"Long time no see, hope you're well."

At this moment, the Shangqing Daoist spoke, revealing a gentle smile as he looked at Gu Jin Nian.

"After Pan Mountain."

"I will crush the Alliance."

Gu Jin Nian spoke, his voice calm as he looked at the other and said thus.

Hearing this, the Shangqing Daoist's face remained unchanged; he merely spoke lightly.

"The Alliance is Heaven's Mandate; Gu Saint should know that Heaven's Mandate cannot be violated."

The Shangqing Daoist smiled lightly.

"Then let's see whether the Alliance is Heaven's Mandate."

Gu Jin Nian glanced calmly, said nothing more, and turned his gaze toward this Pan Mountain.

He faintly felt that the myriad beings tree within his body was clamoring; upon this Pan Mountain, something seemed to be stirring the myriad beings tree.

Gu Jin Nian gazed at Pan Mountain, and the Shangqing Daoist couldn't help but frown slightly.

"When we go up the mountain later, at the first moment, we will act against him to delay his time."

The Shangqing Daoist transmitted his voice, saying thus.

"Good."

Everyone tacitly agreed; even the two Buddhas of the Buddhist sect consented.

"Thus."

Time passed bit by bit.

Pan Mountain's transformation grew ever more terrifying.

Terrifying thunder and lightning sounded from time to time, causing faces to change.

Boom—

Finally.

Ten days later.

With a heaven-shaking thunderbolt striking down, Pan Mountain trembled.

The next moment.

The formation encircling Pan Mountain collapsed on the spot.

"Kill!"

The Shangqing Daoist wasted no words; he rose directly and flew toward Pan Mountain.

Everyone set out.

Gu Jin Nian wasted no words and followed suit.

But just as Gu Jin Nian set out,

several terrifying killing intents appeared.

The Xuanhuang Pagoda burst forth Xuanhuang qi, directly slashing down.

The Yin-Yang Immortal Mirror shone forth Yin-Yang immortal light.

The Dragon-Tiger Treasure Cauldron poured out a large amount of fire essence, while the two Buddhas of Ximo condensed the supreme Buddha seal, shattering the void and slashing down toward Gu Jin Nian.

The five great seven-realm powerhouses, at the same time, had almost no hesitation.

"As expected, they are targeting Gu Saint."

"With the five supreme experts acting together, this battle later will likely be even more terrifying."

"But this bunch is too treacherous."

People spoke, as if they had long anticipated this.

At the foot of Pan Mountain.

Feeling this terrifying slaughtering aura, Gu Jin Nian raised his hand, opened the heavenly canopy, the Xuanhuang bell trembled, shattering these attacks.

"Blocking me?"

"Then let's all be unlucky."

Gu Jin Nian had long been prepared; he knew these people would act.

Now, he also wasted no words.

A Heaven's Mandate mark blossomed.

The next moment, a terrifying meteorite appeared above Pan Mountain.

It smashed down directly.

This meteorite, extremely terrifying, is not inferior to the meteorite of the earlier Da Xia heavenly calamity.

Hiss! Countless people were shocked, unable to believe that Gu Jin Nian actually used this move?

What is he trying to do? Destroy Pan Mountain? Block everyone's path?

The Shangqing Daoists all changed color; they merely wanted to block Gu Jin Nian, but they never expected that Gu Jin Nian would act directly, summoning a meteorite?

"Gu Saint, why go to such lengths?"

The Shangqing Daoist's face turned somewhat unsightly; he struck with the Starry Ancient Tree, sweeping out myriad strands of starry sword qi, piercing the meteorite, but the shattered meteorite turned into tens of thousands of small stones that fell upon Pan Mountain, causing successive explosions.

"Cut the chatter."

"Don't even think about going up."

As for Pan Mountain's treasures, Gu Jin Nian truly isn't very interested; however, in this great worldly struggle, he still needs to contend, and now they have acted directly, giving him no face at all.

What does Gu Jin Nian have to fear? Boom boom boom! Boom boom boom! Meteorite after meteorite fell down.

When Gu Jin Nian turns ruthless, he pays no heed to anything; in an instant, nine meteorites appear, overwhelming heavenly might, covering the sky and earth, blocking the path of those five.

"Gu Saint, why go to such extremes?"

"Just now we were too nervous; we can join forces and attack the mountain together."

"Yes, attack the mountain together."

They spoke up, voicing in unison.

"Cut the nonsense."

"Since it's done, then stop nagging."

"I don't care about any exotic treasures; in this golden age, I have a supreme path to follow."

Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly.

He possessed invincible confidence.

He feared nothing.

Whatever the treasure, it's not a treasure.

There are better things; nothing is meaningless.

Upon hearing this, the Supreme Purity Daoist, Zhang Zhenren, the Yin‑Yang Sect Patriarch, and the two Buddhas of the Buddhist sect instantly felt helpless and a bit regretful.

Why target Gu Jin Nian?

However,

at this very moment.

on the mountain plateau.

A voice suddenly rang out.

"Sage."

"May I come up for a word."

"Our clan has had a great connection with the Sage since ancient times; we are not enemies."

The voice sounded.

It caused a huge shock.

No one expected that the being atop the mountain would voluntarily invite Gu Jin Nian to go up directly?

What does this mean?

Not to mention these people, even Gu Jin Nian was at a loss; he truly hadn't expected this.

Yet, meteors burst one after another, triggering new tremors.

The Yin‑Yang Sect Patriarch and others were forging a path ahead.

The being at the summit fell silent for a moment, then spoke.

"Are they hindering you?"

"I can help the Sage eliminate the hidden danger."

"All it takes is for the Sage to speak."

The other side spoke again, voluntarily offering to take up the task.

Upon hearing this, the world could no longer sit still?

The beings on this sacred mountain were each more ferocious than the last; those who previously intruded into the mountain were mercilessly slain.

We didn't expect Gu Jin Nian to arrive, yet he voluntarily invited us up the mountain? Let it be, and now he's even helping Gu Jin Nian clear the aftermath? "Gu Sage, it was truly our carelessness just now; please forgive us, Gu Sage."

"Gu Sage, that being atop the summit is surely deceiving you; we are humans, of the same race, don't be fooled."

"Indeed, Gu Sage, don't be fooled."

The Yin‑Yang Sect Patriarchs spoke, their faces turning grim; if Gu Jin Nian allied with the being above, they would certainly run into trouble.

The danger is immense.

So they felt some regret.

"Excuse me, sir."

Yet, below the sacred mountain, Gu Jin Nian spoke calmly.

However, he did not ascend the mountain.

He simply stayed quietly below.

Indeed, he also dared not trust the other side; he would observe first before speaking.

Yet Gu Jin Nian was not idle.

The Xuanhuang Bell, the Primordial Five Elements Banner, and two Buddhist artifacts were positioned below; should any of those people dare come down, he would slay them outright.

No chance! — If you have a monthly ticket, give some more!!!! Please!!!! It's the end of the month, just trying to stay in the top ten!!!!

(End of chapter)