The First Sage of Military Strategists

Chapter 125 Undercurrent
He knew that this was a situation that would only occur when the Refining Spirit Technique had been practiced to an extremely high level.

But last time, Han Qing didn't give him this feeling; this time, the pressure was even greater.

"Could it be that Han Qing has become stronger again?" This unbelievable thought popped into Cao Zhen's mind.

Thinking of this, Cao Zhen couldn't suppress his confusion and couldn't help but ask, "Young Master Han, please sit. It's been several days since we last met. I noticed your imposing aura. Could it be that you have made progress in your martial arts and magical arts?"

Han Qing sat down and smiled calmly: "Lord Cao has a good eye. After these few days of fierce battles, my strength has indeed improved again."

Cao Zhen was startled: "In my early years, I heard that there were unparalleled geniuses in ancient times whose strength increased by leaps and bounds, and whose progress was unbelievably fast. Some even attained enlightenment overnight and became saints on the spot. I never believed it, but now that I see Young Master Han, I believe it to some extent."

"Lord Cao is joking. Becoming a saint on the spot is an ancient legend. I am far from that level," Han Qing said calmly.

"Young Master Han, with your martial arts talent, even if you don't reach this level, you are still a martial arts prodigy who appears only once in a thousand years."

"However, precisely because of this, Young Master Han, your current situation is extremely perilous." Cao Zhen said, taking out a secret letter from his robes. "This is General Qi's reply; please take a look."

Han Qing remained calm as he took the secret letter and read it carefully.

"It seems that a grand martial arts event is about to take place on the icy plains of the North!"

Han Qing put down the letter and said slowly.

The letter mainly contained three parts. The first was to remind Han Qing that once the news of his entry into the Possession Realm spread, it would inevitably trigger a frenzy of attacks and killings by various forces.

Secondly, in his letter, he pointed out two paths for Han Qing: one was to lead his men back to the North, cultivate peacefully in the mansion, and reappear after a year or two when the storm had passed, or break through to the Half-Saint realm within a year, which would greatly increase his ability to survive; the other was to lead troops deep into the Ice Plains to scout the way for the imperial army.

Thirdly, Qi Wufeng gave a brief analysis of the current situation in the North, stating that countless forces and martial artists are gathering in this region.

Cao Zhen stared at Han Qing and reminded him, "Young Master, what General Qi said in the letter is by no means an exaggeration. If I were a member of the Han or Luo family and knew that you had such amazing talent, I would definitely do everything in my power to kill you to prevent you from growing into a powerful figure. I think that there might be experts from these two families rushing to the north to launch a new round of assassinations against you."

"I know this in my heart. Lord Qi pointed out several paths for me in his letter. So, according to Lord Cao, what should I do?" Han Qing said unhurriedly.

Cao Zhen looked at Han Qing and secretly clicked his tongue in amazement. In such a critical situation, Han Qing was still able to remain calm and composed. His mentality was indeed extraordinary.

"To be honest, staying in the Yinshan camp will definitely lead to certain death!"
Although I am the commander of Yinshan, I cannot compare with behemoths like the Han and Luo families.

"If another Martial Saint or even a Legalist Great Saint were to arrive, I wouldn't be able to protect you even if I exerted all my strength," Cao Zhen analyzed.

Han Qing nodded slightly: "Lord Cao is absolutely right. We really can't stay in this Yinshan camp any longer."

“I suggest that Young Master Han immediately lead his men back to Shu. With Lord Qi’s protection, it will not be easy for the Han and Luo families to kill you,” Cao Zhen added.

"Shu is General Qi's territory, which is indeed the safest route. However, I want to take a different path," Han Qing said in a deep voice.

Returning to Sichuan would ensure his safety, but it would also make it difficult for him to achieve any major breakthroughs.

The Seven Killings Stele emphasizes killing.

Only by constantly hunting down powerful opponents and absorbing their martial arts skills can one rapidly improve their strength.

Qi Wufeng was unaware of this and thought that he relied on his own talent and comprehension, and that he could break through by going back to the manor to cultivate in seclusion for a period of time.

"To truly escape this crisis, you must become a demigod as soon as possible!"

"Not only do half-saints possess extremely powerful combat strength, but they can also possess other people's bodies to be reborn, increasing their life-saving ability by more than ten or a hundred times," Han Qing thought to himself.

"Does the young master intend to lead a team deeper into the ice plains? That is one option, but it would be much more dangerous."

Now, heroes from all over the north have gathered, and various forces are moving in response. As far as I know, there is Xiang Ying, the leader of the Chu rebels, the Tianlang Fortress of the Western Barbarians, the Great Vajra Temple of the Holy Desert Empire, as well as many other forces from the Great Yu, such as the Han family, the Luo family, and the Chen family. In addition, there are experts from the demon race. It is foreseeable that there will be an unprecedented chaotic battle on the icy plains.

"But chaos is actually a good thing for you. The Luo and Han families will be distracted by other forces and won't have time to pay attention to you. At most, they'll send a few retainers to kill you. As long as you're careful, it won't be too difficult to save your life," Cao Zhen analyzed seriously.

Han Qing's choice didn't surprise him at all.

After several encounters with Han Qing, he could sense that beneath Han Qing's calm face lay a burgeoning ambition.

Han Qing was by no means a coward; on the contrary, the more severe the situation, the stronger his fighting power became.

This kind of person is terrifying!
"I've heard that deep within the icy plains, there are countless treasures in the demon palaces, which are very attractive to experts from all over the world," Han Qing said with a smile.

"That's right. The demon race dominated in ancient times. Even a starved camel is bigger than a horse. Whoever can seize their treasure will definitely see their strength increase dramatically."

Furthermore, a legend has long circulated in the North, stating that the Demon Emperor possesses the ancient, top-tier magical artifact, the Boundless Stele.

"Hmm? Boundless Monument? Legend has it that a great world is hidden within the Boundless Monument, capable of containing all things and suppressing demons and monsters. However, these are all ancient legends that have been passed down to this day. What, Lord Cao, could this be true?" Han Qing asked.

"I don't know if it's true or not, but I think it's true that this legend has been passed down for so many years," Cao Zhen said.

Han Qing nodded slightly. This legend might actually be true. He had previously obtained a copy of the Demon Emperor's Records, which contained detailed accounts of every aspect of this treasure. The descriptions were extremely meticulous, and he vaguely felt that it was not fake. It seemed that the Demon Emperor had actually seen this treasure with his own eyes, otherwise it would not have been possible to describe it in such detail.

"The Boundless Monument is like the Sumeru Storage Ring. It can be used to store valuables or to fight enemies. If I could obtain this supreme treasure, it would be much easier for me to travel the world." A thought flashed through Han Qing's mind, but he quickly put it aside.

With so many experts gathered in the North, if this magical treasure were to truly appear, it would surely ignite a great battle.

Although Han Qing was confident, he also understood that with his current strength, he probably didn't have the ability to enter the arena.

"If I could become a half-saint, I might be able to compete, but for now, I should think about how to get through the current crisis first," Han Qingxin said.

At this moment, Cao Zhen continued, "Young Master Han, since you have made up your mind, there's no time to lose. I will now write a document to report to the court, recommending you to lead the Tiger Might Battalion soldiers into the northern icy plains to scout ahead. However, you must also be prepared, as the contents of this document may soon reach the ears of the Han and Luo family heads, and there is a high possibility that there will be assassinations afterward."

Han Qing stood up and bowed slightly: "Thank you for your help, Lord Cao, during this time. I'll say it again: if they want to kill me, then bring it on. I, Han Qing, am not easily intimidated. Farewell!"

Han Qing said no more, turned around and walked out of the tent, with the Nine Elders of the Crimson Dragon and Yue Xiaobiao following closely behind.

The group then rode out of the camp and galloped all the way to the camp gate.

Han Qing reined in his horse and looked up at the dark sky.

"Back to camp! Within three days, come with me deep into the northern ice plains!"

"I've heard that the climate in the Ice Plains is harsh and extremely cold, and that monsters roam freely. This journey won't be easy," Yue Xiaobiao murmured.

"Scared?" Han Qing raised an eyebrow.

Yue Xiaobiao immediately revealed a resolute expression: "I'm not afraid at all. Young Master is blessed with good fortune. What are these hardships? I've seen in those novels that the protagonist's growth experience is always extraordinary. The so-called hardships are just stepping stones to becoming a peerless master. I think Young Master is just that kind of person. What is there for Xiaobiao to be afraid of? I'm only happy."

Han Qing didn't answer; he could tell that Yue Xiaobiao was feeling apprehensive.

This is normal. The ice field is already very dangerous, and now that many top experts have gathered there, the danger level is far greater than usual.

However, staying in the Tiger Might Camp would make him a sitting duck. Venturing deep into the icy plains, his whereabouts would be uncertain, greatly increasing the difficulty for the Han and Luo families to ambush and kill him, making him safer for Han Qing.

Furthermore, he also wanted to hunt down more powerful individuals in the icy plains, experience the terror of life and death, and perhaps have the opportunity to break through to the Body-Possession Realm and become a Half-Saint. Only then could he truly become a top expert in his own right, able to control his own destiny, and no longer need to fear the Han and Luo families.

Yan Chilong said in a deep voice, "Young Master, wherever you go, the nine of us will go too."

"Rest assured, everyone, I, Han Qing, will definitely lead you to forge a bright and open path!"

"go!"

Han Qing suddenly spurred his horse and galloped off towards the Tiger Might Camp.

"Young Master is truly a dragon among men!" Yan Chilong couldn't help but sigh as he watched Han Qing's retreating figure.

Now, with the Han and Luo families looming overhead, and lurking dangers in the shadows, the pressure is unbearable for most people. Yet, Han Qing remains calm and composed, radiating an inner confidence that makes him feel much more at ease, as if any crisis he encounters can be easily resolved.

"I, Yue Xiaobiao, will take a gamble! I'll go all in!" Yue Xiaobiao gritted his teeth, muttered to himself, spurred his horse, and immediately gave chase.

...

Three days later.

Tiger Might Camp.

Three thousand men were fully armed and ready to go, each one clad in armor, carrying a sword and a longbow on their back, exuding a murderous aura and awe-inspiring presence.

"Young master, this is someone sent by Lord Cao yesterday."

The grain that has been delivered is buckwheat!

Lin Yueqiu held some gray grains in her hands and came to Han Qing. The grains were distinct, with sharp husks, and were two to three times larger than ordinary wheat. When peeled open, they contained grayish-black kernels that had a sour and astringent taste that was quite unpleasant.

However, Cao Zhenxin said in his letter that this item was specially cultivated by the Shennong Dao Palace to provide food for the Dayu army to attack the demon race.

"Thorngrass can grow rapidly in frozen soil and has a strong feeling of fullness. Eating it can provide soldiers with ample strength. However, its taste is slightly poor and it also has a small amount of toxicity, so it cannot be eaten for a long time."

“However, these are not fatal flaws. Last time, the imperial court sent troops to attack the demon race, but it ended in failure because of food shortages. With this, this problem should not occur again.” Han Qing stroked the thorny wheat and said slowly.

“Indeed, Shennong Dao Palace is a gathering place for farmers who cultivate spirits. They are very good at nurturing spiritual seeds. I would like to visit it if I have the chance. I have heard that the scenery of Shennong Kingdom is unparalleled in the world!” Cheng Xuanji said with a smile.

"Mr. Cheng, Lord Qi sent you to protect me. Now that your mission is complete, this trip deep into the ice field has been extremely dangerous. If you wish to leave, you may do so now," Han Qing suddenly said.

Cheng Xuanji shook his head: "I, Cheng Xuanji, am not a coward who fears death. This time, I will go with you, young master, and venture into the depths of the icy plains."

"Thank you for your help, Mr. Cheng. If Han Qing can successfully overcome this crisis, I will surely repay you handsomely in the future," Han Qing said solemnly.

Cheng Xuanji said no more and his gaze fell on the thorny wheat in his palm.

"No wonder the imperial court suddenly launched another attack on the northern demon tribes. It turns out they've solved the most critical food problem. It seems the northern demon tribes are in danger this time."

“That’s right! But this war isn’t so simple. Many forces are involved, all vying for a share of the spoils, just like the battle at Yuelu Academy back then. It all comes down to who is stronger and will ultimately benefit,” Han Qing pondered.

At this moment, Yue Xiaobiao ran over from a distance: "Young master, Lord Cao said that we should be ready to set off at any time. This time, in addition to us, there will be no less than twelve battalions of troops advancing together. We are not alone."

Han Qing nodded slightly, glancing around to see that on the distant training ground, three thousand soldiers were already eager to fight and had made all the necessary preparations. They only needed his order to set off for the ice field.

However, he knew he had to wait, wait for someone.

After waiting for an hour, Han Qing finally saw Bai Yunfei.

Bai Yunfei rode his horse at breakneck speed to the training ground, dismounted in front of Han Qing, and took out a map from his pocket.

"Young master, this is the ice field topographic map you requested. However, the ice field scenery depicted on this map is from a few years ago, and we don't know what changes have occurred since then. Young master, we need to analyze the specific situation on a case-by-case basis."

Han Qing took the map, which was made of the hide of some unknown beast. It was smooth and tough to the touch. It depicted the distribution of cities in the ice field, but it was not complete. Large blank areas could be clearly seen on the map.

“This map was drawn by my Qian family a few years ago when the imperial court first took action against the northern lands. In recent years, the ice plains have been sealed off from the outside world, and my Qian family has not been able to extend its reach, so the map has not been updated,” Bai Yunfei added.

"It's alright. I owe Qian Hou another favor. I'll remember it." Han Qing put away the map.

Cao Zhen also provided a map of the ice field terrain, and Han Qing sent Bai Yunfei to get another one from Qian Hou. By comparing the two, the accuracy rate was even higher.

"My young master said that if you need any help in the future, just let me know, and he will do his best to assist you within his capabilities," Bai Yunfei said.

He was, after all, a member of the Qian family. After meeting Qian Hou, he recounted in detail Han Qing's experiences and growth over this period. Upon hearing this, Qian Hou was utterly shocked and handed over the map without hesitation.

In his eyes, Han Qing was a friend he absolutely had to befriend.

If Han Qing can overcome this crisis, he may soar to the top and become the strongest person in the world.

He felt it was all worthwhile, extremely worthwhile, because he knew that these small acts of kindness and favors would bring amazing returns in the future.

As for the Luo and Han families, they wouldn't hold a grudge against him over such a trivial matter.

"Now that everything is ready, let's set off immediately and venture deep into the north!" Han Qing mounted his horse and shouted loudly.

"set off!"

The soldiers shouted in unison, their voices piercing the clouds and splitting rocks, their momentum overwhelming.

While Han Qing led his troops to the northern ice plains, a secret letter was delivered to the Luo family mansion in the capital.

in the lobby.

A middle-aged man with blue eyes and purple hair, dressed in a cloud-gray robe, sat upright in the center chair. This man was Luo Hexuan, the current head of the Luo family.

His extraordinary appearance made him the most talented martial arts prodigy of the previous generation of the Luo family.

The robe he wore was no ordinary garment; it emitted wisps of moisture, enveloping Luo Hexuan entirely in a misty haze. He appeared indistinct and mysterious, his true appearance obscured, giving him an air of unfathomable depth.

On either side of Luo Hexuan sat two groups of people, men and women, young and old, all exuding a fierce aura.

Some of these people were worshippers of the Luo family, while others were experts trained by the family. Among them were martial arts grandmasters and those who had cultivated spirits in the spirit realm.

"This is a secret letter from Roland; you should all pass it around and read it."

Luo Hexuan's voice echoed in the hall, creating a hazy, lingering effect that made people unconsciously immerse themselves in it, finding it difficult to break free.

He picked up a letter from the table beside him and handed it to the first person on his left to read.

This person was an old man with white hair and a youthful face, whose eyes were deep and unfathomable, and whose strength was also quite remarkable.

He had been very relaxed and at ease, but when he received the secret letter and glanced at it, his pupils contracted and his body tensed up.

Those around him were all surprised to see his expression, wondering what the letter contained that could cause Luo Yueshuang, the eldest elder of the Luo family, to lose her composure like this.

Luo Yueshuang quickly finished reading the entire letter. Her face darkened, and she sat silently in her chair, lost in thought.

He then passed the letter to the second person next to him. After reading it, the person reacted in the same way as Luo Yueshuang: first, he was surprised, then fell silent, and then began to ponder it.

Before long, the letter spread throughout the entire Luo family hall.

"What are your thoughts on what was said in the letter?" Luo Hexuan asked in a deep voice.

"Impossible! The contents of this letter must be fake. How could there be a twenty-year-old Refining Spirit in the Body Reincarnation Realm? Throughout history, there are no more than a handful of such people. I don't believe it." Luo Yueshuang said loudly first. He seemed calm, but those who knew him knew that he was an old man with a bad temper.

“Indeed, even if this person is a genius of all time, Yang Wanxiu is a Martial Saint. How could he have lost an arm to this person? This is truly unbelievable,” shouted the person to Luo Yueshuang’s left.

This person was a square-faced young man dressed in black named Luo Liang. After Luo Ding's death, he became the number one martial arts talent among the younger generation of the Luo family, and the resources previously given to Luo Ding were transferred to him.

Martial arts prodigies born into prominent families all possess a sense of pride, always believing themselves to be the strongest.

But upon reading the contents of the letter, Luo Liang felt his entire worldview had been overturned. A twenty-year-old possessing a spiritual realm? Luo Ding was already a monster he saw only once in a thousand years, how could there be someone even more terrifying than Luo Ding? His first reaction was that this information must be fake.

Many people in the lobby nodded in agreement, believing that what was said in the letter was false.

Luo Hexuan said loudly, "Gentlemen, I know Roland's character. Since she sent the letter to me, it means that the contents of the letter must be true. Moreover, Yang Wanxiu lost an arm. How can such a major event be taken lightly? You do not need to question its authenticity."

Luo Hexuan's words plunged the hall into a moment of silence.

“Patriarch, if the contents of the letter are true, then Han Qing is too terrifying. With such talent, he should be the number one person in the world. Not to mention the Great Yu, even the number one genius of the Western Mang, the Holy Maiden Yue Bairu of the Zongheng Dao Palace, cannot compare to him!” Luo Yueshuang frowned.

“That’s right. He killed Luo Ding and was one of Qi Wufeng’s men. In addition, my Luo family has repeatedly sent people to ambush and kill him. This enmity has become increasingly deep and irreconcilable. I’m afraid that the path of recruiting him is not feasible. The only way is to immediately send someone to kill him to prevent him from growing into a powerful figure in the future.” Luo Liang also said loudly.

His eyes flashed with jealousy and resentment, and he cursed the injustice of fate in his heart. Why did he have such extraordinary talent? Why? People like him deserve to die!
Back then, when he was overshadowed by Luo Ding, he repeatedly cursed Luo Ding in his heart.

He was overjoyed when he heard the news about Luo Ding.

Now, the one being cursed is Han Qing, and he can't wait to hear the news that Han Qing has been killed.

"Such unparalleled talents, if they could be put to use by my Luo family, my Luo family would be even more secure. What a pity," Luo Hexuan sighed softly.

"Patriarch, you must not be soft-hearted! This kind of person must die!" Luo Liang hurriedly said.

He was terrified that Luo Hexuan would send someone to bring Han Qing back, bestow upon him the surname Luo, and then provide him with abundant resources to nurture him.

Such examples are not uncommon. The Luo family has always recruited talented people from all over the world, bestowed upon them the Luo surname, and given them the same treatment as their own disciples, firmly binding them to the Luo family's big ship. In the future, these people will become the pillars of the Luo family.

But with Luo Ding gone, and Han Qing, whose talent is even greater, appearing, he truly has no chance of ever rising to prominence.

“Patriarch, could this child be the son of Su Jin, who disappeared back then? If he is the child of those two, it’s not surprising that he has such unparalleled talent,” Luo Yueshuang suddenly said.

These words silenced the hall once again.

“If it’s true, then it’s not surprising that this kid has many top experts helping him. Although Yuelu Academy was destroyed, a considerable number of top experts still survived. These people formed Lishan Academy, and they will definitely support Han Qing from behind.” A bald man with a strong build analyzed across from Luo Yueshuang.

This person's surname is Wu. He is one of the top-ranking retainers of the Luo family and also a grandmaster of martial arts.

"Regardless of whether this person is the same child from back then, just kill him! I have no intention of investigating the truth!" Luo Hexuan's tone was somewhat impatient.

He glanced around and then turned to Luo Yueshuang beside him, saying in a deep voice, "Elder Luo! This boy is quite capable, so you should personally lead the team on this trip."

"Wu Gongfeng, Li Gongfeng, and Wang Gongfeng, each of you will lead one hundred White Tiger Guards and follow Elder Luo!"

"Yes!"

To Luo Hexuan's right, three vigorous men stood up and responded in unison.

These three are all grandmasters of martial arts, and only those with such strength can become first-class retainers of the Luo family.

"Luo Liang!"

"Here!" Luo Liang stood up.

"This time, the situation in the North has changed dramatically, and heroes have gathered. Although you have access to inexhaustible martial arts resources while staying in the capital, you are ultimately less dangerous."

True strength is forged through blood and fire, and this is an excellent opportunity.

"After you and your team killed Han Qing, there's no need to rush back to the capital. Stay in the Ice Plains with the Luo family experts to continue your training until this war ends," Luo Hexuan added.

"Yes!!" Luo Liang responded loudly.

"With your help, and with Elder Yang, a Martial Saint, even if Han Qing has the Lishan Academy behind him, we will definitely be able to take him down," Luo Hexuan pondered.

Then he changed the subject.

"However, the situation in the North is dire. If things become unmanageable, our priority should be survival!"

Luo Yueshuang raised an eyebrow: "Patriarch, the combined strength of us is so formidable that it could sweep away any second-rate force in the world. I don't think we need to be afraid."

Luo Hexuan shook his head: "Elder Luo, you've been like this for so many years. If it were any other place, you and your group could run rampant together, but now there are countless experts in the North. You must not be too presumptuous!" Luo Hexuan said in a deep voice.

"Patriarch, is there any intelligence?" Luo Yueshuang frowned.

"So far, the top experts I know of include Xiang Ying, the leader of the Chu rebels, the Mohist master, the Great Vajra Temple's Treasure Umbrella Heavenly King, the Five Spirits Dao Saint of Western Mang, the Heavenly Wolf King, the Heavenly Wolf Fortress Master, and Jing Guihong, the leader of the Black Sparrow Alliance!" Luo Hexuan slowly recited a few names.

For a moment, the hall fell silent, and Luo Hexuan was also startled.

These individuals are all renowned masters, terrifying beings whose mere stomp can cause a region to tremble.

Luo Yueshuang was initially full of confidence, but after hearing these words, she understood Luo Hexuan's advice. The North was indeed not a place to be too reckless, otherwise, no one knew what kind of top experts they would encounter.

"There's no time to lose. You should set off now. Han Qing has already led the Tiger Might Battalion as the vanguard to explore the Northern Ice Plains. You should head there quickly and intercept him before the Northern Plains are completely thrown into chaos. It would be best to capture him alive and bring him back to the Han residence. If the situation is critical, you can also kill him directly!" Luo Hexuan gave his final instructions.

"Yes! Patriarch!"

Luo Yueshuang and the others responded in unison.

...

the other side.

Youzhou.

Chen family mansion.

"My lord, this is a box sent by the Xinyang Escort Agency. We have already checked it beforehand. Inside is a letter, and... and the head of Lord Chen Linghui!"

An old servant, carrying a dark, square wooden box in both hands, trembled as he approached the entrance to the dimly lit hall.

"Ok?"

A cold groan came from inside, containing a hint of anger.

With a sound of bones grinding, Chen Muxiu, with his ashen skin and stiff limbs, emerged from the darkness, his eyes deep and unfathomable. He took the square wooden box from Chen Linghui's hand, opened it, and found it to be Chen Linghui's head. Below the head was a letter, soaked in blood.

Chen Muxiu reached out and took out Chen Linghui's head, tossed it aside, then took out the secret letter, opened it, and glanced at it. Immediately, a sharp aura erupted from his body.

"This little bastard has gone too far!" Chen Muxiu roared angrily.

The letter contained only a few words, written by Han Qing himself: "Old dog of the Chen family, one day I will personally take your head to pay tribute to the seventy-seven soldiers who died."

Just then, a woman's ethereal and clear voice came from outside the door.

"Lord Chen, what has happened that has caused such anger?"

A nameless rage welled up in Chen Muxiu's heart; the woman's voice was full of mockery and ridicule.

He was already in a state of extreme anger, and upon hearing this, he wanted to vent his anger on this person. However, upon seeing the person's appearance, he forcibly suppressed the anger in his heart.

"So it's Miss Yuebai Ru. What brings you here? Why didn't you let me know beforehand? I would have certainly prepared a grand banquet to properly entertain you!" Chen Muxiu said in a deep voice.

The newcomer was none other than Yue Bairu, the Holy Maiden of Zongheng Academy. She and Luo Ding were previously known as the two peerless talents, and were considered by their contemporaries to be the two newcomers with the most outstanding martial arts talent in the world.

Now that Luo Ding has died in battle, Yue Bairu has become the only shining star in the sky.

Her delicate, fair arms held an oil-paper umbrella, and she wore a signature ink-wash style cheongsam. With her other fingertips, she gently held two chess pieces, one black and one white. Her features were exquisite, and her temperament was extraordinary, like a well-bred lady hidden in a grand mansion, exuding a gentle and graceful air.

But Chen Muxiu knew that this woman was not someone to be trifled with; she was the type to act without hesitation and kill without blinking an eye.

If you underestimate her because of her appearance, you will surely suffer a great loss.

Besides, this woman's strength and background are all top-notch.

Although this was his own territory, no one dared to provoke him.

"I ended my seclusion half a year ago. I heard that the Great Yu is a land of outstanding people and beautiful scenery, so I decided to travel there. I have been away for more than half a year. I originally planned to return to the Zongheng Dao Palace soon, but I suddenly learned that there is a grand martial arts event in the North, and my grandfather will also be attending. I certainly cannot miss it," Yue Bairu said with a smile.

“Yes, Miss Yue is right, but you still need to be careful. There are many experts in the North now, and you are prey in the eyes of many. If you are killed by them, your grandfather will be heartbroken.” Chen Muxiu reminded him.

Yue Bairu's grandfather was also of great stature. His real name was You Songchuan, a name that many people do not know, but his reputation was known throughout the world. He was the Five Spirits Dao Saint and one of the top ten masters in the world.

As for why Yue Bairu doesn't have the surname You, it's because every generation of Holy Maidens of the Zongheng Dao Palace is given the surname Yue, which is the rule.

“Lord Chen is right. I know the northern ice plains are extremely dangerous, so I came to find you to borrow a few more men from you. However, it seems you have encountered some trouble,” Yue Bairu said with a smile.

"Your grandfather gave me this life, and I, Chen Muxiu, owe my success today to the support of the Zongheng Dao Palace. I cannot refuse to lend you a few people!" Chen Muxiu said loudly.

Back then, he was able to save half his life thanks to You Songchuan.

In return, he was nominally the governor of Youzhou, but secretly he colluded with the Zongheng Dao Palace, often recruiting talents for them.

Zongheng Dao Palace also sent many experts to help him; otherwise, how could he, with his appearance, possibly keep the heroes of Youzhou in check?
"Oh? Lord Chen, I wonder what trouble you've run into? Since I've taken your people away, I'll take care of this trouble for you as well," Yue Bai Ru Qian said with a smile.

"Do you know that a peerless genius was born in Shu a few days ago, named Han Qing? This little bastard killed my grandson Chen An, and today he wrote a letter to provoke me. He happens to be the commander of the Tiger Might Camp in the North. If Miss Yue is willing to take action, taking him down will be a piece of cake," Chen Muxiu said loudly.

"Oh? A martial arts prodigy? One of the purposes of my travels to the Great Yu is to see the martial arts prodigies of the Great Yu." Yue Bairu still had a faint smile, a smile that exuded calm confidence.

"Miss Yue, this Han Qing is quite unusual. You must be careful," Chen Muxiu warned.

"It's alright. I heard that Luo Ding died at his hands, and I've long wanted to see his skills. I certainly won't underestimate him. However, Lord Chen, I need a strong enough force to accompany me, otherwise this matter will be difficult to handle," Yue Bairu said calmly.

"Rest assured, I will certainly send a powerful elite force to accompany you," Chen Muxiu said, then suddenly spoke in a loud voice.

"The Youzhou Imperial Guard is divided into eight battalions, which are the elite of my troops. They are all veterans who have fought countless battles, and there are even cultivators from the Dao Palace who have mastered the Divine Refinement Technique. They are very powerful. Now I will assign the elite troops of the Blade Battalion, Rainbow Battalion, Ash Battalion, and Cloud Battalion to you."

(End of this chapter)