Patrol Captain

Soon after, the rosy glow scattered across the sky like fragments of light, while dark clouds pressed down, and all was deathly silent.

In the main hall of Qitian Mansion, a creaking sound rang out, accompanied by the dull thud of heavy door hinges scraping against each other, and the door slowly opened inward.

A thick, foul odor wafted out from the crack in the door, followed by a tall, imposing figure slowly emerging into the scattering of light.

He wore a purple casual robe with the front open, revealing his bronze chest. His black hair was loose, yet he showed no signs of dishevelment. The tassels of the jade belt hanging from his waist swayed gently with his steps, adding a touch of untamed sharpness.

"general!"

"general!"

"..."

At the entrance, soldiers swarmed around him, calling out to their general. Their faces were filled with complex emotions: resentment and hesitation.

Qi Tian raised his hand to gather his open robe, his face expressionless. Even though he had just failed to break through the Holy Pass, his back was as straight as a mountain, and every step he took on the bluestone slabs carried the clang of iron horses and clashing swords. He was not a defeated person who had suffered a setback in his seclusion, but a general who had just returned victorious from a mountain of corpses and a sea of ​​blood.

He walked past the surrounding soldiers, down the steps, and onto the side corridor bridge, where two figures stood with different expressions and positions in the dappled light and shadow.

The man in front of him had his hands behind his back, dressed in a white robe, with a relaxed and carefree expression, and the furrows around his eyebrows had returned to normal.
The person behind him was dressed in black, with wrinkles on his forehead and a look of disappointment on his face.

Qi Tian stepped forward, showing little sign of defeat, and clasped his hands in a fist salute to Chen Yuan and Helian Shan.

"Many thanks to Martial Saint Chen and Lord Helian! You two protected me, but unfortunately, I have failed to live up to your kindness and failed in my attempt. All my efforts have been in vain."

He spoke these words with remarkable composure. Despite his failed seclusion, he did not wallow in self-pity or become angry or dejected. He simply came out of seclusion on his own initiative and first thanked Chen Yuan and Helian Shan.

"What a pity, what a pity. I thought it was already a done deal, but I never expected it to turn out like this."

Helian Shan shook his head, one hand behind his back, the other stroking his beard. He had originally wanted to say something like "keep up the good work" and "don't be discouraged," but then he realized it was all nonsense. So he sighed, flicked his hand that was stroking his beard, and something flew out of his black sleeve and flew to Qi Tian.

"This is a spirit-nourishing incense. You failed to condense your divine flower during your breakthrough, and your primordial spirit was greatly depleted. If you don't stabilize it in time, you risk falling out of your cultivation realm. This stuff can nourish your primordial spirit. Light it, inhale it through your nose, tap the three gates between your teeth, and let it enter your Niwan point. Repeat this process!"

It was a blue wooden box, about two feet square, with floating protective seals on it, exuding a rather extraordinary aura.

Helian Shan provided an explanation and usage for the contents of the box.

In the eyes of this old national advisor, offering some help within his power at this time was more appropriate than saying something meaningless.

Qi Tian was surprised by this person's generosity. He had heard of the existence of the Nourishing Spirit Incense, and all the rare and precious materials related to the primordial spirit were precious items in the world.

He didn't stand on ceremony; he genuinely needed it in his current state. Knowing the Grand Preceptor's thoughts, he accepted it, bowed in gratitude, and offered his thanks.
"Thank you very much, Lord Helian. I will not stand on ceremony."

Helian Shan nodded, glanced at Qi Tian, ​​then at Chen Yuan, knowing that the two had something to say, so he didn't linger any longer.

"You can talk to Lord Chen; I won't stay any longer."

After saying that, he rose up in a stream of light, transforming into a streak of azure light that shot into the sky, quickly leaving the peak—quite decisively.

Chen Yuan looked up and saw that this person was quite sensible and didn't do anything unnecessary.

"This Grand Preceptor Helian is quite generous. The incense for nourishing the spirit is rare. If he weren't so old-fashioned, constantly talking about the imperial court, I wouldn't have to dislike him."

He paced back and forth, turning around and fixing his gaze on General Qi Tian with a meaningful look.

Qi Tian nodded. "The Grand Preceptor Helian is a veteran of three reigns and the most trusted person by His Majesty's side. Qi Yixin is only concerned with the court, and I have only heard about his deeds occasionally."

Chen Yuan didn't say much on the topic. As long as the other party wasn't bothering him, he was fine. He raised his eyelids and said, "Alright. I think General Qi is in a good mood and doesn't seem to need any comforting."

Upon hearing this, Qi Tian couldn't help but smile, his rugged face breaking into a smile.
"It would be a lie to say I have no regrets. Perhaps it was because I obtained the method of refining the spirit from you, Chen Xuntian, that I easily obtained a large amount of divine source after refining two great demons, which caused my primordial spirit to surge. Since then, I have lost my sense of awe and forgotten that countless brilliant people have fallen at this final hurdle. As a result, I was complacent and was successfully ambushed by the karma I had created, and thus I suffered a complete defeat."

"Fortunately, the damage was not significant and did not harm my foundation. It served as a wake-up call for me, giving me more confidence to advance in the future. However, the primordial spirits of two great demons were wasted, and I will need time to find the necessary materials."

Qi Tian's words were remarkably clear-headed, reflecting on the reasons for his previous failure, summarizing his experiences, and expressing confidence in starting over. He showed no regret or resentment at having fallen just one step short, demonstrating remarkable inner strength.

Chen Yuan raised his chin, quite agreeing. The other party was not ashamed to admit his mistakes and underestimated the danger and difficulty of this challenge.

Although he had cheat codes and didn't have this kind of trouble, he still hummed in agreement.
"Hearing General Qi say that, I am relieved. Now I am starting afresh, and I will surely repay you in the future."

After saying that, he chuckled.
"If the opportunity arises in the future, I will find you a few great demonic spirits, and then we'll see if you can subdue them."

At this point, Chen Yuan suddenly changed the subject and asked Qi Tian, ​​"By the way, you said that you ultimately failed because of a cause and effect. Thinking about it, it seems a bit strange?"

Upon hearing this, General Qi Tian's knowing smile gradually faded, a glint of shrewdness flashed in his eyes, and he lowered his head, pondering for a moment.
"Upon closer reflection, there is indeed something strange about it."

"It concerns the Eight Legions of the Eight Demon Kingdom. I have been guarding there for so many years and have killed countless people. However, it seems that I have inexplicably gained a karmic debt. This force attacked suddenly, causing me to fail at the last moment. I just don't know the reason for this."

"Perhaps something unexpected has happened in the Demon Kingdom!"

Qi Tian made his own speculation uncertainly, unsure of himself, as he was not yet at the level to discern cause and effect. He was merely making connections based on his own experiences.

Chen Yuan seemed to be deep in thought, but this was the other party's cause and effect, and he couldn't investigate it.

The world is unpredictable. Many external enemies came to ambush us, but failed. In the end, we were ambushed by the karmic consequences within ourselves.

Who could have predicted that!
"The Eight Demon Kingdoms and the Western Pure Land have always been shrouded in mystery. We've never heard of any activity from them regarding the celestial beings of the Hundred Thousand Mountains. It seems we can't let our guard down. It would be best to send someone to investigate," he advised.

"Now that this has happened, we have to have it investigated no matter what." Qi Tian nodded, already having a plan in mind.

The two chatted for a few more minutes before ending the conversation.

Qi Tian went back to clean up the mess left by his failed attempt to break through the barrier.

Chen Yuan then returned to the Zhonglang Hall of the Ninth Mountain, where the place was bustling with noise.

Although the imperial court had long since reclaimed military power from the Ninth Mountain, the soldiers, from top to bottom, only recognized their general.

About half a month later, Chen Yuan didn't rush to leave. Instead, he met with Yun Tiansheng, Pei Yanhu, and a few other familiar faces to catch up. Naturally, when they talked, they lamented the passing of General Qi Tian.

Among them were those who asked Chen Yuan why so many Martial Saint-level beings had suddenly ambushed them.
Chen Yuan had investigated the matter thoroughly and informed everyone of the current situation, while also boosting morale. He didn't resort to any mystical rhetoric but instead instructed everyone to cultivate diligently. He explained that the future would be unpredictable, and the Ninth Mountain, including the entire Dao Fu Division, being located in Jin Guan City, a place where events would unfold, would be at the forefront. Therefore, it was essential to develop a certain level of resilience.

These are old news, and Chen Yuan had already given instructions when he left last time, and provided some people with corresponding cultivation resources. However, feeling that the situation is changing rapidly, he continued to give these instructions to increase everyone's sense of urgency.

Afterwards, the brief meeting ended, and Chen Yuan dismissed the others, leaving Gongsun Yang alone.

It turns out that Mr. Gongsun has now surpassed Musashi!

Others don't know yet.

According to Mr. Gongyang, the breakthrough occurred a day or two after he returned from his Martial Saint breakthrough and went to Qingshan County. It was a natural progression, thanks to the positive influence of Chen Yuan's fortune.

Moreover, due to the unique nature of the novelist's lineage of martial arts, Master Gongsun's breakthrough to Musashi did not even involve the essence of heaven and earth, nor did it bring down a heavenly tribulation.

As for Mr. Gongyang, he didn't mention it to anyone because, as Chen Yuan's shadow clone, he kept a low profile and tried not to attract attention.

"It is indeed a fortunate event for you to break through Musashi's barrier, and I will not be stingy with my gifts. Is there anything you wish to ask of me?"

"Speak freely!"

Chen Yuan never looked down on Gongsun, a man who was both loyal and capable, and always treated him with courtesy, telling him to speak freely if he wanted anything.

"If it weren't for your great fortune, I wouldn't be where I am today. I have no other requests." Gongsun Yang shook his head firmly, using the same excuse as before, though he was already satisfied in his heart.

As I said before, if it weren't for Lord Chen, Gongsun Yang would still be a storyteller wandering around with no fixed abode.

Three years ago, he never imagined that he would go from a mere physical cultivator to the Musashi he is today, ranking among the great supernatural beings in the world.

He's the type who wins by clinging to the general's coattails; asking for more is already excessive.

I've already said my gratitude enough, so I'll just keep it in my heart.

On Chen Yuan's side, Gongsun Yang didn't want it, but he had to give it to him. As his shadow clone, enhancing the opponent's strength was equivalent to enhancing his own trump card.

"Alright then, since you'll be joining Musashi, you'll need a few more supernatural abilities to protect yourself. I'll bestow upon you a few techniques to give you more power to protect yourself!"

"Come forward!"

Chen Yuan pondered for a moment, then waved his hand forward, finally raising it to form a sword-like finger and swiping it across his brow.

Suddenly, a slit opened in the gap between his eyebrows and third eye, and a rosy light flowed through it, while a strong wind rose around him.

Gongsun Yang took two steps forward, knelt down on one knee with a clang, lowered his head, his graying sideburns were disheveled in the wind under his black armor, and his eyes revealed vicissitudes and determination.

At this moment, Chen Yuan drew a beam of crystal-clear light from between his eyebrows with his sword finger.

One point, two points, three points.

Then, Chen Yuan pointed his sword and shouted in a low voice, "Raise your head!"

In an instant, three points of light, like snakes, pierced precisely into the center of Gongsun Yang's raised brow and disappeared into it.

The three rays of light represent the three supernatural powers that Chen Yuan has mastered.

These are respectively: Mountain Carrying, Formation, and Staff Transfer!
Moving mountains is a powerful supernatural ability, the strongest one Chen Yuan initially cultivated. It opened up the eight pillars of power throughout his body, making moving mountains and stones a piece of cake.
Formations are all-encompassing, vast and varied, capable of defeating the strong with the weak, and the many with the few. They are ever-changing and best suited for military use. If used skillfully and mastered properly, they can unleash incredible power. Chen Yuan previously passed this method on to Yun Tiansheng, Lu Tianming, and Liu Qing, who subsequently used it to achieve considerable merit in military campaigns. However, these three cavalry commanders lacked sufficient cultivation to gain a deeper understanding of this method, thus limiting its effectiveness.

As for the third method—the staff transfer method—it is a life-saving method that transfers the damage from attacks to an item that one has cultivated.

This method can save your life in critical moments!

The three methods bestowed upon him by Chen Yuan were all Earthly Fiend Divine Powers that he had mastered. He had rarely used them, so they should not be buried but made to shine.

These three methods were specially selected by him as the most suitable, and they are also top-notch supernatural powers that ordinary people can hardly see.

As the three streams of information flowed into Gongsun Yang's brow, his body trembled, his eyes involuntarily closed, and his body was enveloped in radiant light, levitating into the air.

Chen Yuan frowned, leaned back in his chair, and waited silently.

In my leisure time, my five senses fly out of the main hall and down to the foot of the Ninth Mountain to watch the lads of the Ninth Mountain running around in the training ground...

About half an incense stick's time later, in the Zhonglang Hall of the Ninth Mountain, Gongsun Yang's body landed on the ground, and the glow on his body disappeared.

He opened his eyes, which shone brightly, and knelt solemnly in gratitude, saying, "Thank you, General, for imparting the Dharma!"

Chen Yuan smiled and nodded, "Cultivate diligently, and do not tarnish the reputation of these supernatural powers!"

"I'm leaving!"

After he finished speaking, his figure faded away on the chair and gradually disappeared.

Not long after Chen Yuan's clone disappeared from the Zhonglang Hall, two hundred miles east of Qingshan County, a strange phenomenon also occurred. In the sky above a mountain forest, leaden clouds, as black as ink, swept in all directions, rolling into the distance, making it hard for people to breathe. At the same time, the world rumbled, and thunder dragons surged in the gaps in the clouds, splitting through layers of tree shadows.

"Boom——"

The moment the most powerful bolt of lightning struck, a loud buzzing sound arose in the misty valley. A beam of light, several meters thick and cyan-gold, shot through the forest and tore a hole in the dark clouds overhead, shattering the descending lightning.

A dragon's shadow roared and swirled within the pillar of light, causing the surrounding lightning to stagnate slightly.

Suddenly, a loud laugh erupted from the pillar of light that pierced through the heavens and earth, the voice filled with unbridled abandon: "Hahaha, I, Master Dong, have succeeded!"

Before the laughter subsided, the azure-gold pillar of light faded, revealing the white-haired, bulbous-nosed old man, Dong, of the Dragon-Raising Clan, who raised his middle finger towards the heavenly tribulation, displaying utter arrogance. (End of Chapter)