Chapter 181

Being controlled by Shanyanghu, Fang Xu and Liu Xin again lost the ability to speak, and thus, being controlled by the White-clad Corpse Refiner, they flew toward the other side of the endless sea.

In the distant sky, a flying dragon carried the people as they pursued swiftly.

"Where are they? Are they still stopped now?"

The Long Dragon, having transformed into a dragon, spoke in human words, asking.

One of the Ghost-faced Army soldiers hurriedly shook his head: "He moved; the young master is moving quickly again."

Hearing this, the Long Dragon became somewhat anxious.

"Hold on tight, Uncle Ape, protect them for a moment."

Just as the words fell, the Long Dragon immediately removed its surface protective shield and flew forward with all its strength.

Behind it, those Ghost-faced Army soldiers suddenly lost the protection of their shield, and then suffered a sudden acceleration, almost being thrown off.

Laoyuan saw this, and his Blood Qi Power surged, forming a new protective shield that had taken years to develop, wrapping everyone inside.

In the sky, the Long Dragon noticed Shanyanghu's actions and curiously said: "That guy sank the corpse refiner following behind him into the seabed; he probably plans to ambush us together with the corpse refiner later."

Shanyanghu blinked slightly, then quickly restrained his aura and slowed his speed.

Gradually, the outline of the horizon finally appeared on the endless sea ahead, and a hint of delight appeared in Shanyanghu's eyes.

Coming for me!

He did not associate the four-clawed black dragon above his head with himself, only thinking that this black dragon was a predecessor of some major sect in the Central Continent, or the mount of important figures.

Shanyanghu saw this, and his heart was greatly shaken!

In his view, being able to use a dragon of demon-level as a mount, the owner of this black dragon must be an extraordinarily capable person; such a person could likely wipe him out with a flick of a finger.

Oh no!

"Huh?"

By that time, the Yin Corpse Sect and the Ascension Immortal Society will all grovel at his feet, and his triple-souled self will become a renowned existence throughout the Central Continent.

Thinking of the boundless future, Shanyanghu could not hide his excitement, began to accelerate sharply, and flew toward the distant Central Continent.

Could the owner of the black dragon have discovered his identity as a member of the Yin Corpse Sect?

Lest the other party notice him, take a dislike to him, and casually wipe him out.

Nowadays, Laoyuan, having long consumed the Immortal Elixir of Creation, has reached the mid-Yuanwu Realm; moreover, the Earth Fiend Demon Ape clan carries a trace of ancient demon ape blood, making his combat strength considerably greater than that of an ordinary mid-Yuanwu Realm martial artist.

He turned his head and looked at the distant sky, discovering a four-clawed black dragon flying toward his direction.

Shanyanghu and the White-clad Corpse Refiner flew slowly, preparing to continue their journey after the four-clawed black dragon overhead had passed.

The reputation of the Yin Corpse Sect in the Central Continent is not particularly good, lying between heretical cultivators and orthodox cultivators.

In this process, some people inevitably take risks, stealing the ancestral remains of some major sects and great clans.

After completing the seed-life foundation, he made the white-clothed corpse refiner his Dao protector, guarding the three as they slowly grew; with their talents, within a hundred years they would surely break through the Corporeal Image realm and reach a higher realm.

This is because some extreme cultivators of the Yin Corpse Sect often like to rob the tombs of powerful beings, stealing their corpses to refine into corpses.

Although this corpse refiner is a Corporeal Image–level corpse refiner bestowed by an elder of the Yin Corpse Sect, it is extremely precious.

Yet faced with a life-or-death crisis, he had no choice but to temporarily give up.

He was finally about to reach the Central Continent; once there, returning to his secret base, he could begin his new research.

Shanyanghu did not know that Fang Xu and the Ghost-Faced Army still had this connection, nor did he know that someone was now pursuing him, so his speed was not particularly fast.

Thinking of this, he no longer bothered with any respect, directly beginning to accelerate his escape!

He belonged to the type of cultivator nobody likes.

The old ape nodded and said, "After we catch up, you focus on that corpse refiner; I'll deal with him."

Now that he has sensed Fang Xu's presence, it means Fang Xu is not far away.

Restraining one's breath and slowing down is also a way to show respect and avoid trouble.

Although he was somewhat exhausted from the long flight, he still gritted his teeth and persisted.

First let him sink to the seabed; after this danger passes, I'll think of a way to fish him out,' Shanyanghu thought to himself.

Otherwise, a powerful being who rides a black dragon of the dragon clan would never have the leisure to hunt down someone as insignificant as me, a Yuanwu Realm cultivator.

With two Martial Lord–level monstrous geniuses who have grasped the laws, plus an ancient Xuan Yang Saint Body, I could completely refine the three into corpse slaves, then using the seed-life foundation method, split my soul into three and plant it simultaneously in their bodies.

While flying, Shanyanghu suddenly sensed an extremely terrifying monstrous aura in the sky behind him.

Behind him, the long dragon flying at full speed had also sensed Fang Xu's presence.

The reputation of the Yin Corpse Sect has also become poor because of them.

Shanyanghu's thoughts raced; finally he gritted his teeth, directly using a secret method to forcibly annihilate the half of his own soul that resided within the white-clothed corpse refiner, then issued the corpse refiner a final command to sink into the endless sea!

He guessed that it was probably the corpse stench on the white-clothed corpse refiner that drew the other's attention.

Shanyanghu fled while glancing at the white-clothed corpse refiner beside him.

Such lunatics may be few, but a single rat dropping can spoil a pot of porridge.

Who would have thought that after the black dragon overhead came flying at high speed, it would gradually turn around and rush toward him?

His connection with Fang Xu was inherently weak, and he could only sense Fang Xu's presence within a certain distance.

He was confident he could fight Shanyanghu.

The long dragon nodded its massive head, then suddenly dove toward Shanyanghu's position.

While Shanyanghu was flying swiftly, seeing his black dragon flying straight toward him, he hurriedly exerted all his strength and began to flee toward the continent.

In his view, as long as he escaped to the continent and slipped into the Ten Thousand Great Mountains of Nanjiang, relying on the terrain and various restrictions of Nanjiang's Ten Thousand Great Mountains, he should have a chance to shake off his pursuers.

Moreover, Nanjiang is the domain of the barbarian tribes; the various powers of the Central Continent generally do not get along with them, so if the black dragon's master rashly barges into Nanjiang, naturally a barbarian strongman will step forward.

We must flee quickly!

The more Shanyanghu thought, the more he felt that his only hope at present was to flee to the Ten Thousand Great Mountains of Nanjiang.

Seeing the black dragon drawing ever closer, Shanyanghu, alone with Fang Xu and the three, was about to be caught up.

A flash of resolve crossed his eyes, and his body surface instantly began to ripple with streaks of red light.

Burning his life essence blood!

To escape with his life, he no longer cared about these things.

The land ahead drew ever closer, and Shanyang Hu already saw the tall trees on the coastline.

Burning his life essence blood, his speed grew ever greater, and at the moment when Chang Long was about to catch up, he successfully fled into the mountains.

Chang Long brought Lao Yuan and they also arrived on land shortly after.

Ang!

With a faint dragon cry, over a hundred people appeared directly at the edge of the dense forest.

"Strange, this guy isn't weak, why does he seem to fear us?" Chang Long asked curiously.

He had thought that Shanyang Hu would sink that powerful white‑clad corpse into the sea, preparing to battle them at sea, then let the white‑clad corpse launch a surprise attack from beneath the waves.

Who would have thought that this guy would not hesitate to burn his life essence blood and run madly, charging straight into the vast mountains before him.

Could there be an ambush hidden in these mountains?

"Let me handle this."

Gu Qiu glanced at the dense forest ahead, then slapped his cloth bag.

Buzz!

Buzz buzz buzz!

One after another, the flying insects flew toward the dense forest ahead.

These flying insects were very fast; in the blink of an eye they caught up to Shanyang Hu, who was sprinting through the forest.

Afterwards, the insects scattered; a small portion followed Shanyang Hu, while the rest dispersed in all directions, seeking to see if there were any ambush traps nearby.

Not long after, all the insects flew back.

From the insects, Gu Qiu obtained concrete information and directly informed Lao Yuan and Chang Long.

The group immediately set off in pursuit of Shanyang Hu.

Shanyang Hu, continually fleeing through the forest, heard movement behind him and his expression grew panicked.

At this point he could clearly determine that the opponent was resolutely intent on putting him to death.

Why am I so unlucky!?

As his great undertaking was about to succeed, how did he encounter a major figure of the Great Sect?

He turned his head and saw, behind him, ghost‑faced soldiers clad head to toe in armor, their faces bearing ghostly masks, flickering through the forest; feeling the Martial Venerable aura emanating from each of them, Shanyang Hu despaired.

They are soldiers!

The Central Continent has many nations, but only those inheriting for ten thousand years could afford to station Martial Venerables as common soldiers.

Those now hunting him actually have soldiers in their retinue; they must be nobles and royalty of the great nations, or even members of the imperial family.

The fact that they sent only these people to pursue him shows they are playing a cat‑and‑mouse game, using him to train their subordinates and soldiers.

As the enemy drew nearer, Shanyang Hu glanced at Fang Xu, Kong Jie, and Liu Xin in his hands, gritted his teeth, threw Kong Jie and Liu Xin aside, and fled far away with only Fang Xu.

During the melee on Immortal Island, he had once witnessed Fang Xu's strength, the fusion of divine abilities and laws, and it seemed he had grasped the law of power.

Moreover, considering Fang Xu's strange flame that can burn souls, after weighing the pros and cons, he felt Fang Xu's potential surpassed that of Kong Jie, who possessed the Profound Yang Holy Body, and Liu Xin, who had comprehended another law.

After discarding the two, his burden suddenly lessened greatly, and Shanyang Hu's speed increased as well.

Behind them, Lao Yuan and the others, seeing that Shanyang Hu had cast aside Kong Jie and Liu Xin, immediately assigned several ghost‑faced soldiers to look after them, while the rest continued the pursuit.

"Uncle Yuan, why is this fellow so timid?"

In the pursuit, Chang Long asked, somewhat puzzled.

He could sense that Shanyang Hu's strength was not weak; if they went all out, he and his companions might not necessarily be able to defeat him.

But the opponent only thought of fleeing, never engaging him head‑on, leaving Chang Long's pent‑up anger with no outlet.

"Uncle Yuan, I'll go ahead and intercept that old thing!"

Seeing that following the main force made it impossible to catch up to Shanyang Hu at this moment, Chang Long could bear it no longer.

Lao Yuan pondered for a moment, then nodded and said, "All right, but you only need to hold him off until we arrive."

Chang Long's strength was still only at the Elementary Martial Realm; although he carried dragon blood, he had not fully unleashed its power, and thus was no match for Shanyang Hu.

But he possessed the ability to control lightning, his speed was extremely great; otherwise he could not have brought over a hundred people and caught up to Shanyang Hu so quickly.

"I understand!"

Before Chang Long's words had even faded, his body turned into a bolt of electricity and shot straight toward Shanyang Hu ahead.

Shanyang Hu, holding Fang Xu in his hand, felt Chang Long's aura drawing ever closer from behind, and his heart grew even more terrified.

He could sense that the youngster chasing him from behind was none other than that black dragon transformed.

That black dragon, though only at the Initial Great Demon Realm, would have posed little trouble for him at his peak—he could have dealt with it without much effort.

But the key is that, having used the Soul Separation Technique and lost half of his soul, plus having burned a considerable amount of life essence blood while rushing, his strength is now less than half of what it was at his peak.

Although he is now no match for that black dragon, the dragon is merely a mount; behind him are numerous elite soldiers, as well as that mighty figure who has yet to act.

Once he is held back, there is literally no way to survive.

"Who exactly are you, and why are you pursuing this old man?"

As he saw Chang Long's silhouette drawing near behind him, Shanyang Hu finally voiced the doubt in his heart.

"Old man, release the person in your hands, and I'll tell you."

The pursuing Chang Long could clearly sense that Fang Xu's body was being corroded by a strange toxin, leaving him devoid of all strength.

In this situation, should a battle erupt, Fang Xu, lacking any self‑defense ability, would easily be caught in the crossfire.

"Want a person?"

Upon hearing Chang Long's words, Shanyang Hu lowered his gaze to look at Fang Xu in his hand.

Could it be that the other party knows this kid?

No!

This kid is from Yu State; it's absolutely impossible for him to know any big shot of the Central Continent.

Looking at it this way, there is only one possibility.

The other party is some youngster overflowing with a sense of justice, inexperienced in the world……

"I can let the person go; please ask that adult if they can spare my life."

"I captured them not for any other scheme; I simply think they have talent and want to find a successor for my abilities."

His words made Chang Long a bit doubtful.

Just as he was about to speak, he suddenly noticed Fang Xu, held by the goat-bearded man, blink his eyes; Chang Long immediately swallowed the words on his lips and said: "My young master does not like killing; if you release the person, my young master will naturally not pursue the matter."

Hearing this, the goat-bearded man's face lit up with joy.

I indeed guessed correctly!

"Alright, I will release the person now; I hope that adult keeps their promise."

The goat-bearded man said this, then directly pulled out a medicine bottle, slapped it onto Fang Xu, and threw Fang Xu toward Chang Long!

"There is a strange poison on his body; it needs to be treated quickly, otherwise he will surely die!"

"Please tell that adult, I did this for self-defense; undoubtedly, it harmed people."

After throwing Fang Xu back, the goat-bearded man immediately fled deep into the forest.

Chang Long caught Fang Xu and indeed saw his complexion gradually turning black.

"Gu Qiu, come quickly!"

Holding Fang Xu, Chang Long also gave up pursuing the goat-bearded man and ran straight toward Gu Qiu's direction.

Arriving beside Gu Qiu, Chang Long urgently said: "That old thing poisoned Brother Fang Xu."

Upon hearing this, Gu Qiu's complexion slightly changed; he hurriedly examined.

"It's a simple poison; I can cure it."

As she spoke, a flash of light appeared in her hand; she took out several herbs, then waved her hand to crush all the herbs, took out a waterskin, mixed the powder into the water, and fed it to Fang Xu.

After drinking the medicine, Fang Xu's complexion gradually returned to normal.

However, the poison on his body that restricts his power has not yet been lifted.

Behind them, the heavy duties of the Ghost-Faced Army also arrived; after confirming that Liu Xin and Kong Jie were unharmed, the Ghost-Faced Army promptly set up camp on the spot, preparing to rest temporarily, allowing Gu Qiu to find a way to cure the poison on Fang Xu and Liu Xin.

Inside the tent, after Gu Qiu examined the bodies of Fang Xu and the two others, his expression became somewhat solemn.

"Senior Sister Kong is fine; she merely fainted and will wake up in a few days."

"But the poison on Fang Xu and Junior Brother Liu is too strange; I cannot find a way to decipher it for the time being."

The poison on Fang Xu and Liu Xin is very strange; it not only restricts their Blood Qi Power throughout their bodies, but even their souls are sealed by this strange toxin. Although Gu Qiu is skilled in medicine and poison arts, his research on the soul is not deep enough, so he dares not act rashly to treat them.

What should we do then?

Should we hurry back now?

Chang Long spoke up.

Gu Qiu shook his head: "The situation on the Immortal Island is very complicated right now; not to mention our return, we might encounter other enemies along the way, but based on my understanding of my master, he probably doesn't have a better solution for this poison either."

As a Ten-Thousand Poison Sacred Body, Gu Qiu's attainment in the art of medicine and poison is already not inferior to Lian Sen's.

If she can't solve this poison, Lian Sen probably has no solution either.

"Qiu Xiātou, does this poison have any clue at all?" Lao Yuan said with a worried expression.

Gu Qiu shook his head: "I am not skilled in the way of the soul; I have no method."

However……

She glanced around the forest and said: "This is the Central Continent, where many extraordinary people gather."

"The poison that Fang Xu and Junior Brother Liu have suffered will not endanger their lives; I suggest we search the Central Continent, perhaps we can find a medical expert to help them dispel the poison."

Old Monkey hesitated for a moment, then nodded: "We shouldn't delay; let's set out now."

The soldiers of the Ghost-Faced Army made three suggested stretchers, placed Fang Xu and the two others on them, and everyone attempted to head toward the outskirts of the forest.

Not long after they set off, strands of brightly colored mist suddenly drifted from afar.

Gu Qiu glanced at it, quickly signaled everyone to stop, then took out a bottle of pills from his Cosmos Bag, distributed them, and whispered: "Be careful; this kind of poison mist often accompanies some highly toxic mist……"

As soon as her words fell, Chang Long noticed in the distant forest a huge centipede as thick as an adult's thigh, about two zhang long, entirely bright red, crawling swiftly!

Wherever the giant centipede passed, the plants its legs touched instantly withered!

"This thing's toxicity is so strong!" Chang Long exclaimed in astonishment.

Gu Qiu nodded: "I have seen in ancient texts that the southern border region of the Central Continent is also called the Hundred Thousand Great Mountains."

"The Hundred Thousand Great Mountains are filled with countless poisonous insects and ferocious beasts, among which are not lacking some ancient relics!"

"Besides the poisonous insects and beasts, the Hundred Thousand Great Mountains also have many toxic miasmas; dangerous places are also forbidden zones for martial artists."

"Apart from the barbarians living in the Hundred Thousand Great Mountains, other martial artists basically dare not set foot there."

"Let's go."

Watching that giant centipede disappear into the distance, everyone continued onward.

They merely made a slight adjustment to their direction, fearing they might accidentally run into that giant centipede later.

After all, that creature looks trouble at a glance.

The party proceeded cautiously through the forest, encountering many terrifying ferocious beasts and poisonous mists along the way.

Fortunately, those huge creatures seemingly never expected a human martial artist to come here; moreover, with Gu Qiu, this Ten-Thousand Poison Sacred Body versed in the art of poison and sorcery, the group managed to survive with only a scare and no harm.

On the tenth day of their deep penetration into the forest, signs of human activity finally appeared before everyone's eyes.

The surrounding dense forest also became considerably sparser.

Following the traces of human activity they had found, the group quickly arrived near a small tribe.

"Qiu Yatou, if we rashly approach, will we provoke these natives' hostility and cause conflict?" Looking at the distant tribe, Lao Yuan spoke.

Gu Qiu glanced at the Ghost Face Army behind him, also feeling that his group, with the armored Ghost Face Army suddenly appearing, would likely be seen as invaders by the other side.

"Uncle Ape, I'll go over first to take a look and communicate with them."

Lao Yuan nodded: "I recall from ancient texts that the Wu and Man share the same roots; you understand witchcraft, perhaps you can let them lower their guard."

"But everything must be done carefully; if the other side shows any movement, send a signal immediately, and I and Chang Long will be ready to respond."

Fang Xu is still unconscious; he must protect Gu Qiu well.

If something happens to Gu Qiu, when Fang Xu wakes up, I won't be able to explain myself.

"Uncle Ape, rest assured."

Gu Qiu said, then slowly walked toward the tribe below.

"Who goes there!?"

Just as they approached the natives' tribe, Gu Qiu was discovered by two strong, bare-chested men!

These two strong men were burly, muscles coiling like dragons, bare-chested, with strange tattoos covering their faces and bodies, their interiors filled with explosive power.

"Sorry to disturb you, I'm Gu Qiu; I got lost in the mountains, my companions were poisoned, and I wanted to see if your tribe could help us."

After hearing Gu Qiu's words, the two strong men exchanged a doubtful glance: "Where are you from?"

The two could clearly see that Gu Qiu's attire was not from the nearby tribes, and they remained wary as they asked.

Gu Qiu, however, let out a slight sigh of relief.

The fact that they didn't attack immediately upon meeting shows that the matter can be negotiated.

"I come from overseas; I just landed on the island a short while ago..."

As soon as she finished speaking, one of the strong men raised his spear: "You're an overseas invader!?"

The other strong man also quickly raised his voice, shouting.

In an instant, many men and women poured out of the tribe, all holding weapons, quickly surrounding Gu Qiu.

Seeing this, Gu Qiu slightly furrowed her brow.

She didn't understand why, having only said she came from overseas, the other side immediately labeled her an invader.

"Don't misunderstand, we're not invaders; we encountered danger at sea, were forced to land here, and as a result two of our companions were poisoned..."

Gu Qiu still wanted to explain.

An old woman wearing a feathered robe, surrounded by several strong men, came before Gu Qiu.

The old woman wore a head crown made of bone and shell inlay, held a wooden staff studded with the teeth of various fierce beasts, and had mysterious symbols etched on her face.

Upon seeing Gu Qiu, the old woman's eyes flashed with doubt; she then slowly approached Gu Qiu, brought her nose to Gu Qiu's body to sniff, and her expression instantly changed.

She trembled as she stepped back two paces, then knelt directly on the ground, respectfully pressing her forehead before Gu Qiu.

The other tribespeople, seeing this, all showed puzzled expressions.

After the old woman finished her obeisance, she slowly raised her head.

"Above the Hunyu deity, this old woman never expected to see someone possessing a divine body in her lifetime."

Her voice trembled, her body constantly shaking from excitement.

Upon hearing the two words "divine body," the tribespeople behind her instantly dropped their weapons and then knelt respectfully before Gu Qiu.

Gu Qiu, surrounded in the middle, was completely dazed.

Divine body?

Could what they're saying be the Ten Thousand Poisons Holy Body?

"Granny, please rise first."

Gu Qiu, having come to her senses, quickly helped the old woman up and said: "What you mean by divine body is..."

The old woman, having steadied herself, looked excitedly at Gu Qiu and said: "Your constitution is indeed a divine body."

"You mean the Ten Thousand Poisons Holy Body?" Gu Qiu asked doubtfully.

"Ten Thousand Poisons Holy Body?" The old woman pondered, then realized: "Outsiders seem to call our tribe's divine body that."

"Since you possess a divine body, you are our tribe's goddess."

"Goddess above, the Hunyu Tribe's High Priest Ba Zhuoyan pays his respects to the goddess."

"Pay respects to the goddess!"

The old woman knelt again, and all the Hunyu Tribe members behind her likewise bowed in worship.

Gu Qiu was somewhat dazed by this sudden turn of events.

But she understood that, regardless of what this so-called goddess status signifies, at least for now, having this identity should give her group an extra measure of protection in the Ten Thousand Great Mountains.

This is the Ten Thousand Great Mountains, the barbarians' domain.

The Hunyu Tribe is likely a branch of the barbarians; our group's strength may seem not weak, but in the Ten Thousand Great Mountains it's utterly insufficient.

"Granny Ba Zhuoyan, please let the tribespeople rise first."

Having figured this out, Gu Qiu quickly spoke up.

Ba Zhuoyan slowly rose, glanced at the tribespeople, and said: "The goddess has spoken; everyone, rise."

Everyone rose; the Hunyu tribesman who had previously confronted Gu Qiu with weapons now stepped forward with a determined gaze.

"Goddess, Ba Shan just showed disrespect to the goddess; he is willing to cut off his own arm, please forgive him, goddess."

Saying this, he suddenly drew a sharp dagger from his waist and slashed at his own arm!

Bang!

Gu Qiu struck down the dagger in his hand with a palm, somewhat angrily saying: "I haven't blamed you; why go to such lengths?"

Ba Shan, seeing this, stubbornly shook his head: "Offending the goddess, Ba Shan must be punished!"

As he spoke, he again wanted to pick up the dagger.

Gu Qiu kicked the dagger aside with one foot and said, "You keep calling me a goddess, yet you don't even listen to the goddess's words?"

Ba Shan hurriedly knelt and kowtowed, saying, "Ba Shan dares not!"

Gu Qiu glanced at him and said, "Then I now command you in the identity of the goddess: you are not allowed to self-harm."

Ba Shan's body trembled slightly.

As a barbarian, they cultivate only the flesh; if they sever an arm, their cultivation will be nearly halved, and Ba Shan also does not want to cut off an arm.

But offending the goddess is a grave sin; severing an arm is the necessary punishment.

"Grandmother..."

Seeing Ba Shan still hesitating, Gu Qiu could only look toward Ba Zhuoyan.

"All right, Ba Shan, the goddess has spoken; your punishment can be waived." Ba Zhuoyan comforted.

Only then did Ba Shan let go of his obsession, bowing again to Gu Qiu: "Thank you, goddess!"

Gu Qiu nodded, then looked at Ba Zhuoyan and said, "Grandmother, I still have some friends outside the tribe..."

"Oh?" Ba Zhuoyan glanced at the old ape in the distant forest: "The goddess's friends are my Hunyu tribe's friends."

"Ba Shan, go bring the goddess's friends inside."

…

Inside the old stilted building, Ba Zhuoyan looked at the unconscious Fang Xu and Liu Xin, pondered briefly, and said, "Goddess, was the poison on these two inflicted by the Yin Corpse Sect?"

Gu Qiu shook her head: "I don't know either; it was an old man with a goat beard who captured them."

Ba Zhuoyan slowly rose and sighed, "Although this poison is not hard to dispel, one of the medicinal ingredients is not easy to find."

Hearing her words, Chang Long beside her immediately said, "Just tell me what medicinal ingredient you need, grandmother, and I will go find it for Brother Fang Xu."

Ba Zhuoyan glanced at him, then cupped her hands toward Gu Qiu and said, "This medicine is called Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine, and it can be found on Burial Dragon Mountain northwest of the Hunyu tribe."

"However, Burial Dragon Mountain is a forbidden place, teeming with ferocious beasts and poisonous insects that carry ancient divine dragon blood, extremely formidable."

"Wanting to enter Burial Dragon Mountain to gather the Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine is extremely difficult..."

As soon as her words fell, Chang Long beside her walked out directly.

"Grandmother, while you treat Brother Fang Xu, I will definitely bring back that Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine for you!"

As soon as his words fell, a dragon's roar sounded, and a four-clawed black dragon instantly flew toward the mountains northwest of the Hunyu tribe.

Seeing this, Ba Zhuoyan felt moved: "How rare, a descendant of a divine dragon actually has such deep affection for a human..."

"Goddess, I will now go prepare the other medicines; as soon as the Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine arrives, I can immediately detoxify them."

Gu Qiu nodded, then, under Ba Shan's arrangement, temporarily placed the Ghost-Faced Army members in a cave beside the Hunyu tribe.

On Chang Long's side, after transforming into his dragon form, he shortly reached the Burial Dragon Mountain that Ba Zhuoyan mentioned.

Upon landing, his brow furrowed instantly.

"This place... is very strange."

The moment his feet touched the ground, he suddenly felt a strange sensation.

This feeling carried familiarity, danger, and also an inexplicable throbbing and summons.

It seemed as if an ancient divine dragon was truly buried in the mountains.

Chang Long shook his head; he had no mind to worry about just writing, only wanting to quickly find the so-called Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine to detoxify Fang Xu.

He walked slowly toward the mountain ahead, when the nearby bushes suddenly shot out a giant python.

After the giant python emerged, it curiously sized up Chang Long, and a girl's ethereal voice rang out: "When did someone with such pure bloodline come to Burial Dragon Mountain?"

Feeling that the giant python seemed not intending to attack him, Chang Long also had no intention of engaging it, and walked straight ahead.

"Hey!"

Seeing Chang Long ignore him, the giant python twisted its body and gave chase: "Kid, can you tell me where you absorbed so much dragon energy?"

Chang Long was somewhat curious: "What dragon energy?"

Seeing this, the giant python grew a bit angry: "If you don't want to say, then don't; why ask such a stupid question?"

Seeing this, Chang Long couldn't help but laugh.

He truly did not know what dragon energy was, and was not intentionally withholding it.

"I really don't know what dragon energy is."

Seeing his solemn expression, the giant python tilted its head doubtfully: "You aren't a demon of Burial Dragon Mountain, are you?"

Chang Long shook his head and then said:

"I need to go find something; I have no time to chat with you."

Saying that, he once again walked up the mountain.

Gazing at his back, the giant python hesitated a moment, then followed up, saying: "What are you looking for? I can help you."

The giant python's enthusiasm made Chang Long feel somewhat surprised.

Now he is no longer the clueless novice who just gained awareness; he deeply knows that the giant python's earnestness must have an ulterior motive.

"What do you need?"

The giant python bared its mouth and lightly flicked its tongue.

"It's nothing much; I just want a drop of your essence blood..."

Upon hearing that, Chang Long's eyes narrowed, a flash of killing intent crossed his gaze, and he said: "Say that again?"

Now that he has transformed into a dragon, he naturally inherited the nobility of the dragon race.

Hearing that a little snake incapable of even transforming dares to demand his essence blood, Chang Long's killing intent arose instantly.

Sensing this hint of killing intent, the giant python hastily retreated a few steps.

"I... don't be angry; I just wanted to borrow a bit of your dragon energy to transform."

Besides, Burial Dragon Mountain is more terrifying than you imagine the monsters to be, and there are plenty of powerful monster kings on the mountain.

You are not of the monster race of Burial Dragon Mountain, yet you carry such rich dragon blood; if you rashly go up, you will surely be seized and devoured by them.

Ju Mang's words left Chang Long deep in thought.

He had indeed just sensed a terrifying ancient presence on Burial Dragon Mountain; that must certainly be a monster king.

If Ju Mang's words are all true, then rashly going up, a dragon merely at the great monster realm would be absolutely tempting to those monster kings.

But I am a dragon, though only four-clawed, not yet considered a true dragon race.

His innate nobility also made him disdain to use his own essence blood to help Ju Mang.

Just a drop……

Your bloodline is very rich; a single drop of essence blood will not affect your foundation at all.

Moreover……

Don't say more; wanting my essence blood is impossible." Chang Long flatly refused Ju Mang's request, then said, "But if you truly only want to assume human form, I can help you.

The precondition is that you must first help me find what I need.

Ju Mang hesitated after hearing that.

What if I give you the thing, but you don't help me assume human form?

I can't beat you either……

Chang Long gave a light smile: 'This is simple……'

Before his words faded, a complex magic formation disc suddenly appeared in his hand.

I have sworn by my dragon soul; if you can help me find what I want, I will certainly help you successfully assume human form.

When his words ended, the magic formation disc in his hand turned into a stream of light that flew toward Ju Mang.

Ju Mang was completely stunned at this moment!

This is an ancient dragon soul oath!

You are already of the dragon race!?

She had originally thought Chang Long was merely a rich-blooded great monster, possessing the ancient divine dragon bloodline.

Never did she expect that Chang Long was already of the dragon race.

Brother…… I believe you!

Upon learning that Chang Long was of the dragon race, Ju Mang's attitude immediately did a complete 180-degree turn.

'Brother, whatever you need, if it exists on Burial Dragon Mountain, I can find it for you!' Ju Mang declared earnestly.

'Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Grass.'

'Brother, can we change it?'

Chang Long had just spoken what he needed, when Ju Mang immediately pleaded: 'That thing is in a monster king's territory, I……'

'Didn't you just say you'd help me find anything that exists on Burial Dragon Mountain?' Chang Long teased.

Ju Mang blinked his big eyes and said: 'Brother, you don't know, the Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine is in the territory of the Ferocious Bear Monster King; it is a hulking Earth Raging Bear possessing the divine dragon bloodline, with a very odd temperament.'

If she went to take it, she would very likely be torn apart alive by him.

Then I'll go myself." Chang Long said.

Ju Mang feared death, dared not go, and he also had no intention of forcing her.

Brother, brother……

Seeing Chang Long intend to personally go fetch the Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine, Ju Mang became anxious.

With Chang Long's current strength, he is absolutely no match for the Ferocious Bear Monster King; rashly going forward, he would surely be swallowed alive.

If Chang Long dies, her plan to assume human form will be indefinitely delayed.

Brother, perhaps I should go.

Ju Mang hesitated for a long time, but ultimately decided to go himself.

At this time of year, the Ferocious Bear Monster King is likely in deep slumber; as long as one is careful, one should not be discovered by him.

'Alright, I'll wait here; if you don't return in two days, I'll go get it myself.'

Ju Mang nodded, twisted his body, and rushed toward the mountain.

Time quickly passed half a day, and night fell.

Chang Long lay quietly on an ancient tree, his gaze occasionally turning toward the not‑far Burial Dragon Mountain.

When it was deep night, Chang Long was cultivating.

Roar!

Suddenly a terrifying howl came from deep within Burial Dragon Mountain!

Around Chang Long, some low‑cultivation monster beasts, hearing this explosive roar, were all scared to the point of losing bladder and bowel control, lying on the ground and daring not to move.

Splash!

Splash!

……

From the distant forest came waves of rustling.

Brother!

Brother, hurry!

Ju Mang's body was covered in wounds, his snake scales shattered over half, finally clutching a long vine as he sped over!

After rising, a terrifying violent bear nearly two zhang tall chased after him.

Chang Long sprang down from the tree in a flash!

Neigh!

A dragon's roar rang out, and he instantly transformed into a dragon body, shooting up like lightning!

A huge dragon claw directly grabbed the scar-covered giant python, then shot up into the sky!

Roar!

The violent bear behind him saw this, let out a fierce explosive roar, and its huge paw slapped the fleeing long dragon!

The long dragon, flying halfway in the air, was grazed by a slap; its dragon scales instantly shattered, and a large amount of dragon blood fell like raindrops.

The violent bear licked the dragon blood dripping on its face, a flash of greed crossing its eyes: "Pure dragon blood, and the bloodline of an ancient divine dragon..."

"Kid, let me meet you again..."

The violent bear's eyes filled with bloodlust as it gazed at the long dragon disappearing into the night sky!

In the sky, the long dragon that had escaped from the violent bear's grasp, after confirming the bear wasn't chasing, stumbled and fell into the forest, then resumed human form.

At this moment, a ferocious wound appeared on his thigh, blood continuously seeping out.

"Oh no!"

"You're injured!"

The giant python hastily extended its head, discarding the nine-leaf dragon scale vine from its mouth:

"I'll help you!"

"Don't waste..."

The bright red snake's tongue kept licking the long dragon's wound, angering him so he slapped the giant python away, then circulated his Blood Qi Power to staunch the blood from the wound.

He picked up the nine-leaf dragon scale vine from the ground, and the long dragon said coldly: "Let's go."

He brought the giant python back to the Hun Yu Tribe and personally handed the nine-leaf dragon scale vine to Ba Zhuoyan.

Looking at the long dragon's wound, Ba Zhuoyan handed over an ointment: "Apply it; it will heal quickly."

With the nine-leaf dragon scale vine, Ba Zhuoyan quickly prepared an antidote, gave it to Fang Xu and Liu Xin to drink, then checked them over.

"Goddess, they will only need a day or two to wake up."

Gu Qiu nodded, stepped out of the room, and looking at the severely injured giant python outside, asked curiously: "Long dragon, this is..."

"Picked up."

The long dragon coldly glanced at the giant python playing with the Hun Yu Tribe's children, feeling disdain.

"Brother, saying that hurts the snake's heart!"

Upon hearing the long dragon say that he had picked it up, the giant python instantly became a bit unhappy.

"Brother, don't forget what you promised me..."

Seeing the long dragon ignore him, the giant python spoke again.

"What's the rush? I didn't say I wouldn't help you, but I also didn't say when I would help you..."

The long dragon's face showed a hint of a playful smile.

The giant python froze outright.

"You... you scoundrel!"

"And you're still a dragon!"

The giant python shouted loudly, drawing many members of the Hun Yu Tribe to watch.

The old ape saw this and could only chuckle, trying to smooth things over: "Alright, little snake, don't rush; it's just a transformation—wait a few days and it'll be fine."

Fang Xu still had plenty of Creation Immortal Elixir; helping a snake demon at the peak of demon beasts to transform wasn't a problem.

Time flew, and two days passed.

That evening, Liu Xin, lying on the bed, slowly woke up.

He looked around, somewhat curious about where he was.

"Gu Qiu, senior sister?"

His gaze caught Gu Qiu studying some book nearby, and Liu Xin called out.

Gu Qiu raised her head, seeing the awakened Liu Xin, and said excitedly: "Liu Xin, junior brother, you're awake?"

Liu Xin nodded, feeling his Blood Qi Power had only slightly loosened, his brows slightly furrowed.

"The poison in your body will take a few days to heal."

"Fang Xu..."

Before he could finish, a thunderclap suddenly rang out from the sky outside the stilted building!

Then a terrifying aura appeared above the Hun Yu Tribe!

This terrifying aura instantly startled everyone in the Hun Yu Tribe; many tribe members looked up at the sky covered in dark clouds, faces full of shock, not knowing what had happened.

But just then, that terrifying aura gradually dissipated, and the dark clouds above slowly dispersed.

At the same time——

On the Central Continent, a magnificent immortal mountain hovering above the clouds, radiant with multicolored light, immortal palaces standing in rows, interlocking like fish scales.

"Divine edict..."

Within the grand immortal palace, a solemn voice sounded.

Upon the massive immortal mountain, countless terrifying figures transformed into streams of light, flying toward the magnificent hall.

Southern Frontier, the Ten Thousand Great Mountains.

Within the Hun Yu Tribe, Fang Xu slowly opened his eyes.

Upon waking, he first lifted his head to look at the sky.

Although he had been unconscious due to a strange poison, at the moment the toxin sealing his soul was dispelled, he still felt the probing of the will of heaven and earth.

However, this probing seemed to last only a moment before disappearing.

Probably the will of heaven and earth was frightened……

Fang Xu secretly thought, then stood up and looked toward Gu Qiu, saying, "Where is this?"

Gu Qiu smiled slightly: "Central Continent, Southern Border."

Central Continent...

He glanced at the old stilted building, Fang Xu also felt the weak power within his body, let out a slight sigh and gave a wry smile: "I never expected to arrive at the Central Continent in this way."

Since learning of the existence of the Heavenly Mystery Realm, he has always felt that he would one day set foot here.

But he never imagined that he had actually been kidnapped and brought here.

"The Immortal Island..."

Suppressing the thoughts in his heart, Fang Xu looked toward Gu Qiu.

Gu Qiu shook his head: "I don't know; we haven't received any news yet."

"In the Southern Border, few people venture; even if the battle on Immortal Island has a result, it likely cannot be transmitted here."

Fang Xu listened and said nothing.

Actually, he is not optimistic about the situation on Immortal Island.

Since the enemy chose to besiege Immortal Island, they must have made full preparations.

Initially, they only feared Immortal Island's Island-Protecting Grand Formation.

But later, the Island-Protecting Grand Formation was broken, losing their last reliance; Immortal Island likely cannot withstand the enemy's assault.

Thinking of this, a hint of self-reproach rose in Fang Xu's heart.

After all, a large part of the reason Immortal Island's Island-Protecting Grand Formation was forced is due to myself.

If it weren't for me drawing the punishment of heaven and earth's will, provoking the mysterious existence of the void and that mysterious expert from Red Blue Mountain to act, Immortal Island's grand formation would not have suffered heavy damage.

Those besieging Immortal Island are even less likely to break through the protective grand formation and attack Immortal Island.

Hopefully Immortal Island can turn danger into safety this time.

After the two woke up, everyone first settled in the Hunyu Tribe.

Until the third day, the unconscious Kong Jie also gradually woke up.

After learning the full story from Fang Xu and the others, Kong Jie felt somewhat regretful.

She knew that, if not for her, Fang Xu and Liu Xin might not have been captured by the Goat Beard and brought to the Central Continent.

"Kong Senior Sister, who exactly is that white-clothed corpse refiner?" At this moment Fang Xu finally voiced his doubt.

Kong Jie organized her thoughts and slowly said: "That is Elder Lian Xin, originally the Elder of the Law Enforcement Hall, and also one of the Five Great Executing Elders of Immortal Island."

Hearing this, Fang Xu and the others suddenly realized!

No wonder Immortal Island now only has four Executing Elders.

As it turns out...

"Elder Lian Xin, when he went out on a mission years ago, passing by our Red Flame Tribe, discovered that the Yin Corpse Sect members were besieging us."

"The Yin Corpse Sect is infamous; virtually everyone in the Heavenly Mystery Realm knows their modus operandi."

"Elder Lian Xin took action, but was ambushed by an elder of the Yin Corpse Sect."

"To draw away the pursuing Yin Corpse Sect powerhouses, after throwing me to a fisherman, he left on his own."

Saying this, Kong Jie gave a bitter smile and looked at Fang Xu: "Now you know why Xing Ming has always disliked me, right?"

"Because he thinks I am the one who caused Elder Lian Xin's death."

Fang Xu said nothing.

Speaking of this matter, it's truly not Kong Jie's fault.

But Elder Lian Xin is Xing Ming's master; Kong Jie was saved by Elder Lian Xin; perhaps seeing Kong Jie reminds Xing Ming of his master, which is why he dislikes her.

"Fang Xu, once the toxins in my body are completely gone, I want to return to Immortal Island." Kong Jie fell silent for a moment, then suddenly spoke.

Immortal Island is the place Elder Lian Xin wanted to protect; she was saved by Elder Lian Xin, so naturally she intends to share its fate.

Fang Xu nodded: "Once our bodies recover, we'll return together."

Fang Xu also now wants to know how the situation on Immortal Island really is.

After all, there are still many Ghost Face Army troops and the couple Slay Heaven Rui on the island.

Late at night, several people were each adjusting their breath, striving to restore their bodies to peak condition as soon as possible.

The giant python coiled outside the Hunyu Tribe suddenly let out a loud shout:

"Help!"

Hearing the shout, everyone instantly woke up!

After rushing out of the door, they saw the giant python, panicked, wandering up to them:

"They're coming to kill!"

Chang Long frowned: "What's coming to kill?!"

"The Ferocious Bear Demon King and... and the demon beasts of Burial Dragon Mountain!" the giant python stammered.

Fang Xu was somewhat puzzled: "Chang Long, what's going on?"

Chang Long briefly explained his affair of going to Burial Dragon Mountain to seek medicine.

"Fang Xu Big Brother, that stupid bear is likely coming for me."

"Your wounds haven't healed yet; I'll go lure that guy away, you all leave quickly."

The Ferocious Bear Demon King pursued, and there's an eighty to ninety percent chance it's for the dragon blood on his body.

That is a demon king, equivalent to a powerhouse of the Dharma Appearance Realm; the people present plus the Hunyu Tribe are no match for it.

If I stay, it will only increase casualties for the Hunyu Tribe.

Having said that, Chang Long directly prepared to fly away.

But Fang Xu indeed grabbed him with one hand.

Don't be ridiculous, that's a demon king, not an idiot.

Nonsense, that's a demon king, not an idiot.

The old monkey also tried to soothe him, saying, "Running away won't do any good; you can't outrun it, that demon king will surely capture us and use us to threaten you."

The Old Monkey also followed up with comforting words: "Running away won't help; you can't outrun it, that demon king will surely catch us and use us to threaten you."

Upon hearing this, Long Dragon froze.

Hearing this, Chang Long froze.

He had originally planned to rely on his speed to escape the Ferocious Bear Demon King's pursuit, never considering what he would do if the demon king caught Fang Xu and the others.

He had originally planned to rely on his speed to shake off the Ferocious Bear Demon King's pursuit, never considering what he would do if the Ferocious Bear Demon King caught Fang Xu and the others.

Fang Xu, big brother, I'll go with the demon king myself.

"Big Brother Fang Xu, then I'll go with the demon king myself."

Long Dragon thought for a moment, then suddenly spoke.

Chang Long pondered for a moment, then suddenly spoke.

What the Ferocious Bear Demon King wants is me; as long as I go with him, he shouldn't give Fang Xu and the others a hard time.

What the Ferocious Bear Demon King wants is me; as long as I go with him, he shouldn't make things difficult for Fang Xu and the others.

Hearing this, Fang Xu furrowed his brows, a cold expression crossing his face as he said, "You know the Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine is in a demon king's territory, so why are you still recklessly going to get it?"

Hearing this, Fang Xu furrowed his brow, a cold look appearing on his face as he said: "You know the Nine-Leaf Dragon Scale Vine is in a demon king's territory, so why do you still recklessly go to get it?"

"Because you're my big brother!" Long Dragon blurted out.

"Because you're my big brother!" Chang Long blurted out.

Fang Xu laughed, "That's right."

Fang Xu smiled: "That's right."

"It's just a demon king; don't panic, I'll go talk to him."

"It's just a demon king; don't panic, I'll go talk to him."

Long Dragon, hearing this, grew anxious: "What if we can't reach an agreement?"

Hearing this, Chang Long grew a bit anxious: "What if we can't reach an agreement?"

Fang Xu looked at him calmly: "If we can't reach an agreement, then we fight!"

Fang Xu looked at him, his expression calm: "If we can't agree, then we fight!"

Having said that, he walked slowly toward the village outskirts.

Having said that, he walked slowly toward the outside of the village.

(End of chapter)

(End of chapter)