Daqin arrests alchemists, what does it matter to me as a qi refiner?

"I think with your strength, you can definitely handle him easily, so we won't get in your way!" With that, Feng Xueyuan turned and left, not intending to stay any longer. Yang Ling watched Feng Xueyuan run away quickly, thinking to himself, "How come she's changed so much after so long?"

"I advise you to beg for mercy now. If you do, I might spare your life. If you don't, don't blame me for being impolite!"

"What nonsense are you spouting? Do you really think you can handle me with your meager strength?" Yang Ling found it somewhat laughable and immediately clashed with Tang Yi. After only one exchange, Tang Yi had to take half a step back. How could Yang Ling's strength have evolved to such a level? He was dumbfounded; this was completely different from what he had imagined.

"Why are you so powerful? Is this really the strength you can display?" he questioned.

As they gazed at the ancient monsters within the ruins, their anger flared up instantly.

The faces of everyone were terribly grim, completely unprepared for the fact that so many demonic beasts were hidden in the ruins. A group of elders were so angry they almost fainted. They knew that most of their sect's most outstanding disciples were inside, and these disciples were still relatively inexperienced and had not yet undergone enough training. If they were properly nurtured, their talents would surely reach new heights in the future.

He looked down at the elders with a cold expression, as if nothing in the world could catch his eye.

"Elders, is there anything more to say? This is, after all, an ancient ruin, and it's only natural that there are remnants of demonic beasts inside. So please, elders, take your grief in moderation and don't be so angry." The elders gritted their teeth, secretly relieved that the core disciple hadn't come, otherwise they might have lost their lives here.

“Ancient demonic beasts shouldn’t be here. Although the demonic energy here is dense, it should only be able to breed a few mediocre demonic beasts. It shouldn’t exceed that range. Someone must have done this on purpose!” an elder said coldly.

Upon hearing this, everyone instantly realized what was happening. These elders were shrewd, and the atmosphere instantly turned icy. Then, all their gazes turned to Huo Zun.

With so many people, Huo Zun didn't enter the ruins. The Huo family has always been arrogant and domineering, robbing whatever they see, but today they're acting so magnanimous; there's definitely something fishy going on.

"Elder, do you suspect we're involved? The fact that the Huo family didn't go in shows we don't want to compete with you. If we didn't go in, how could we harm them? You're overthinking it!"

"That's right, we made way for them to go in, and now that they've gotten into trouble, you not only don't appreciate it, but you're blaming us instead!" Their words were full of dissatisfaction, and several elders were so angry that they were puffing out their beards and glaring.

Unfortunately, without evidence, there was nothing that could be done about them. But everyone knew in their hearts that no one else could have done such a thing. Even if they were extremely dissatisfied, they could only suppress their anger.

"You are indeed powerful, and no one can defeat you. But don't forget, there are always people stronger than you, and there is always something beyond your understanding. I advise you to be careful and not be too arrogant!" The elder said harshly before turning and leaving.

After Yang Ling and Feng Xueyuan returned to the Yinsha Sect, Yang Ling remained extremely calm, unhurriedly entering his room to focus on his cultivation. The old man said nothing more.

He knew in his heart that what was happening outside was definitely not simple.

Moreover, the Huo family's actions are far too abnormal. If they are allowed to continue, the entire sect will likely be destroyed.

Several days passed, and the day of the selection arrived. The grand competition had already generated much buzz, and everyone was eager to showcase their skills on the ring and make a name for themselves.

Feng Xueyuan arrived at Yang Ling's door, wondering when Yang Ling would come out.

Yang Ling's current strength far surpasses what it used to be, thanks to the cultivation techniques and treasures Yang Ling had given him, coupled with his diligent training during this period, which has led to a breakthrough in his strength. Hearing the commotion outside, Yang Ling opened the door.

Feng Xueyuan breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing Yang Ling. Since returning last time, Yang Ling had remained secluded at home, and Feng Xueyuan had worried that something had happened to him. Seeing Yang Ling looking so energetic put his mind at ease.

"The competition is about to begin, and you've been staying in your room the whole time. I thought you weren't planning on coming out. But your nemesis has arrived too. Are you really confident? And the competition starts in less than an hour!" He looked Yang Ling up and down. A sharp glint flashed in Yang Ling's eyes, and the aura he exuded made Feng Xueyuan's heart race.

He was almost fooled by Yang Ling's appearance. By the time Yang Ling arrived, many disciples had already gathered outside. They looked at Yang Ling with eyes full of admiration. Who didn't know Yang Ling's name? He was definitely the strongest.

They pinned all their hopes on Yang Ling for this competition.

Aside from Yang Ling, they didn't have any other strong individuals; perhaps Feng Xueyuan was the most formidable.

They all greeted Yang Ling, who nodded slightly. Just as Yang Ling was about to unlock the door, a familiar voice came from mid-air.

Yang Ling felt that the voice sounded familiar, as if he had heard it somewhere before.

The old man stepped forward just in time, staring intently at them. Judging from their posture, they were after Yang Ling's life.

Feng Xueyuan secretly worried for Yang Ling, as they were indeed from Tingyulou. Tingyulou had several secret guards, all of whom were not to be underestimated. Their appearance together was extremely disadvantageous for Yang Ling.

"Old man, I know you're protecting Yang Ling, but do you intend to keep protecting him forever? He's been going against me for a long time, I hate him to the core! Besides, several of my men died at his hands, as did members of the Yan family!"

"That kid deserved to die!"

No one expected that Yang Ling would dare to kill the people of Tingyu Tower, and that they would all die at his hands. Yang Ling's strength was indeed well-deserved, and everyone secretly sighed in admiration.

"I've said it before, even if you all come at me together, you won't pose a threat. But let me tell you, if you dare to touch Yang Ling today, I will never let you off!" The old man's words carried a hint of threat as he sneered.

"Do you really think we, Tingyu Tower, are afraid? Our people are all here. So what if we fight to the death?" Yang Ling flew directly into the air and met their gaze. Seeing Yang Ling, they were secretly surprised, not expecting that Yang Ling was really as powerful as the rumors suggested.

No wonder Yang Ling has so many powerful backers; his talent is truly astonishing.

Given time, Yang Ling would be invincible. Besides, he was already very strong. They exchanged a glance, preparing to fight.

However, at that moment, a person appeared out of thin air, emanating a powerful aura, which startled them, and they all took a few steps back.

Yang Ling looked up and was surprised to see it was him. Ying Zheng walked up to Yang Ling.

"After my strength increased, I couldn't find you. Later, I asked the female clan leader and found out that you came here without me. These few minor characters are fine, I'll take care of them for you!" The aura emanating from Ying Zheng instilled fear in them, and they secretly broke out in a cold sweat. If they were to face Ying Zheng, they probably wouldn't stand a chance.

However, the next second, Yang Ling looked into the distance and saw an aura that did not belong here, indicating that there were other people here.

"Get out here now, or do you want me to do something to you!"

Ying Zheng frowned slightly and followed Yang Ling's gaze, only to see a person laughing loudly.

"I didn't expect it to be so lively here, far exceeding my expectations. But don't worry, I'm just here to deliver a message!" The newcomer was powerful, composed, young, and unremarkable in appearance. Seeing his arrogance in the face of so many powerful figures, everyone was surprised. Just who was this person?
"Who I am is none of your concern. I am here to deliver a message to Young Master Zhao on behalf of the Huo family," he said, emphasizing each word. Upon hearing the name "Huo family," everyone's expression changed drastically. Although Huo Zun rarely made a move, his strength was not to be underestimated. It was said that Huo Zun had broken through his cultivation level and even obtained the Qin family's inheritance. Even powerful forces wanted to take him as a disciple, but ultimately, he was chosen by the Qin family.

The people of Tingyu Tower temporarily stopped what they were doing, not daring to offend Huo Zun and filled with fear. Moreover, once Huo Zun joined the Qin family, if they continued to oppose him, it would undoubtedly be courting death. The man turned his gaze to Yang Ling.

"The others are one thing, but my young master most wants to see you, Young Master Zhao. However, Young Master Zhao, you are truly unworthy to be my young master's enemy!" Upon hearing this, doubts arose in everyone's hearts. They had vaguely heard about what had happened before; the Huo family had also gone to the ancient ruins and seemed to have clashed with Yang Ling. The old man's face darkened, and he thought to himself: Why would Yang Ling provoke so many people outside?

"You have no right to speak to me. Speak your mind. If it's just nonsense, I won't give you a chance. You can just end it yourself!" The man didn't take Yang Ling's words to heart. Instead, he laughed loudly, his face full of disdain.

"You've not only offended me, but also many other powerful forces, including the Qin family. Do you really think this is your territory? Even the matriarch of the Qin family couldn't get here in time to save you!"

"However, out of respect for the female head of the family, we can cripple you before sending you back; we won't take your life easily!" No one expected Yang Ling to have offended so many factions. Without a word, Yang Ling attacked directly. Before the man could react, a large hole appeared in his chest, and he instantly died. Everyone was shocked. Although they knew Yang Ling was strong, they hadn't expected him to be this powerful, killing someone with a single move.

Yang Ling and Ying Zheng stood with their hands behind their backs. Ying Zheng looked at the group before him and said, "These insignificant characters don't deserve my attention. I haven't stretched my muscles in a long time, so I'll use them as my starting point today. People like them deserve to die!" The aura emanating from Ying Zheng made the group tremble; they found his gaze terrifying. After exchanging glances, they realized they couldn't fathom the true strength of Yang Ling, and continuing the fight would likely be disadvantageous. They gritted their teeth; aside from Yang Ling's potential, the old man was not to be underestimated. Yang Ling and the others exchanged bewildered glances, thinking that even if they didn't intervene, Yang Ling would eventually die at the hands of the Qin family, the Huo family, and their enemies; why waste their energy?

"Yang Ling, we certainly won't kill you today, but the Qin family, the Huo family, and all your enemies will not let you go. Even if we don't make a move, you will eventually be defeated by them and suffer a miserable end. You'd better watch yourself!" With that, they turned to leave. However, Yang Ling flashed forward, blocking their path. Did they think this was a place where they could come and go as they pleased? Ying Zheng and Yang Ling, one in front and one behind, blocked their retreat.

Yang Ling's words shocked them. They had thought he would give up, but he was determined to fight to the bitter end. Their expressions changed drastically; if word got out, they would lose all face. Moreover, if they didn't deal with Yang Ling today, how could they ever face anyone else in the future?

They gritted their teeth and charged at Yang Ling. Yang Ling didn't back down, while Ying Zheng was the first to rush forward, throwing several punches that sent them flying. The old man swallowed back the words he was about to say, secretly regretting: If I had known Yang Ling was so powerful, why did I try to persuade him? I should have just attacked him directly.

Seeing this, Yang Ling threw another punch, sending them flying several meters backward, coughing up blood. Yang Ling stood proudly between heaven and earth, and at that moment, it seemed as if the world itself paled in comparison. The old man's heart surged with excitement; he hadn't misjudged Yang Ling, for Yang Ling was indeed his savior.

The rumors about Yang Ling were indeed true; he was said to have single-handedly killed several people at a young age, and even disregarded the Qin family head. Everyone's expression changed, realizing the situation was dire. Yang Ling was powerful enough to command their respect; if they didn't leave now, they would lose face terribly.

"Hurry up and leave! Even if you leave now, you can still escape later and save your life. Don't worry about this anymore, just go!" They turned to flee.

"That's right, as long as the green hills remain, there's always firewood. If we don't leave now, we'll have no chance of survival later!" Ying Zheng sneered as he saw them trying to leave, blocking their path. Yang Ling hadn't let them go, yet they dared to leave on their own—it was utterly laughable. Had they even asked Yang Ling before leaving? They were truly incredibly foolish.

Ying Zheng swung his sword, and they instantly turned into a cloud of blood mist. Seeing this, everyone retreated, terrified by Yang Ling's strength. Not only that, but Yang Ling's friend was even more terrifying; he not only sent people flying but also beat them so badly.

The old man was extremely excited; Yang Ling's moves made him feel as if he had returned to his youth.

After dealing with these people, Yang Ling turned to Ying Zheng and exclaimed, "Your strength is still as good as ever!"

"I didn't expect you to come. Why didn't you tell me you were coming? I thought you weren't coming!"

"You left so quickly, so you came to deal with these people. I thought they were much stronger, but I didn't expect them to be so easily defeated!" Ying Zheng's words made them blush, because they knew they were no match for him.

The next instant, Yang Ling appeared in front of the old man.

The old man then came to his senses. No wonder Yang Ling was so confident. With his talent, he was probably unbeatable in this competition.

The Huo and Yan families would likely find it difficult to contend with Yang Ling. The old man was in high spirits; Yang Ling not only possessed extraordinary strength but had also easily repelled several powerful individuals without any effort. This was beyond the capabilities of ordinary people, not to mention that Yang Ling's friends were even stronger.

The others gazed at Yang Ling with admiration, a hint of envy in their eyes. They understood that after this competition, Yang Ling's fame would surely spread far and wide, and he might even attract many followers. (End of Chapter)