Chapter 1734 Rumors Spread, Report!
Chapter 1734 Rumors Spread, Report!
"is not that right!"
The lean man slammed his hand on the table, drawing stares from the next table, but he paid no attention and said angrily,
"Once the flames of war are ignited, those high and mighty sects and aristocratic families will not care about our lives in order to fight for resources and territory."
They will definitely conscript us and make us cannon fodder to charge into battle!
At that time, you'll be powerless to control your own destiny, and your life or death will be uncertain!
“Not bad!” a middle-aged cultivator who had been silent all along said in a deep voice.
"unless.
We are willing to give up this hard-won cultivation and hide back in the depleted spiritual energy of the mortal world, like a desert, to eke out a living.
Otherwise, in this world of cultivation, escaping this potential catastrophe would be as difficult as ascending to heaven!
Gentlemen, let's make plans as soon as possible!
"Preparing now?" The old Taoist gave a wry smile, carefully taking out a talisman drawn with a winding fire serpent from his robes.
"It's probably already a bit too late!"
Look at the shops; they sell talismans, elixirs, and array plates—any strategic resource that can be used for survival in battle.
Which one didn't start with limited supply?
Prices are changing every day, rising so fast it's alarming!
This Fire Serpent Talisman, which I bought today, cost two low-grade spirit stones more than it did three days ago!
This was only because I had some connections with the manager of the 'Hundred Talismans Pavilion' that I managed to snag a purchase spot.
Otherwise.”
He shook his head, the unspoken words of which were understood by everyone present.
Even if you have the money, you might not be able to buy it.
The voice just fell,
Another rogue cultivator who had been listening in suddenly raised his head, a resolute glint in his eyes:
"It's a bit late, but it's better than sitting and waiting to die!"
If the situation deteriorates completely and all sides start fighting each other, then not only will prices rise, but these life-saving elixirs, talismans, and magical artifacts will probably not be easily obtained with spirit stones!
If we grit our teeth and spend a few more spirit stones now, we might still be able to seize a glimmer of hope!
Fellow cultivators with decent means, don't hesitate any longer!
These words, like a boulder thrown into a calm lake, stirred up ripples throughout the restaurant's lobby.
Most of the independent cultivators fell silent, their expressions shifting, clearly indicating an intense internal struggle.
One of the ordinary-looking cultivators had a fleeting, almost imperceptible glint of cunning in the depths of his lowered eyes.
"A chance to make a fortune?"
A thought, like a venomous snake, quietly sprouted.
Without further hesitation, he silently put down the almost untouched wine cup in his hand, stood up, and strode quickly out of the restaurant, his figure disappearing swiftly into the bustling crowds of the market.
This departure seemed to ignite a fuse.
Soon, like a chain reaction, most of the cultivators in the restaurant could no longer sit still.
Some looked anxious, others had shifty eyes, as they got up to pay their bills and rushed out the door.
Clearly, they were all enlightened—
If we don't exchange these spirit stones for real life-saving items now, their value will inevitably decrease greatly when the chaos truly arrives!
of course.
Some shrewd individuals are no longer thinking about self-preservation, but rather how to profit from the impending storm by hoarding and speculating on goods to make a fortune!
This scene at Zuixianlou in Qingfeng Market is by no means an isolated case.
It is like a tiny microcosm, constantly unfolding in the inland cultivation kingdoms and immortal cities.
Panic is spreading, panic buying is intensifying, and the invisible undercurrents have converged into a surging wave.
at the same time.
Jin State, Baiyun Gate.
Deep within the sect, in a solemn and majestic hall, the atmosphere was so heavy it was almost palpable.
The fragrance of sandalwood wafted through the air, but it couldn't dispel the tension that permeated the atmosphere.
"Are you telling the truth?"
A majestic voice, tinged with disbelief, broke the silence.
Seated on the sandalwood throne at the head of the main hall was a middle-aged cultivator dressed in a white robe with cloud patterns.
His face was square, exuding an imposing aura without anger, and his body faintly emanated the powerful spiritual pressure of a late-stage Golden Core cultivator.
This was none other than Cheng Changqing, the powerful and influential Grand Elder of the White Cloud Sect.
Compared to decades ago, Cheng Changqing's temperament has become more calm and reserved, like a deep pool or an ancient well.
What's even more remarkable is that his cultivation level has actually broken through to the late Golden Core stage!
This was certainly due to his own hard work and dedication, but it was also thanks to the support of the powerful sect that provided him with ample resources, allowing him to make further progress in just a few decades.
The advantages of having a powerful backer are on full display at this moment.
At this moment, his brows were furrowed, his gaze sharp as lightning, fixed on a Foundation Establishment stage deacon standing respectfully below.
"Reporting to the Grand Elder," the steward, dressed in the White Cloud Sect's standard robes, spoke with a respectful yet solemn expression, his hands clasped in a fist salute, his voice clear and urgent.
"This news is definitely not unfounded!"
It has spread rapidly throughout the cultivation world beyond the six surrounding states of Jin, like a wildfire spreading at breakneck speed!
I predict that within a few days, this storm will surely sweep across the cultivation world of our six kingdoms!
More urgently, our subordinates have discovered that the prices of various spiritual items, especially strategic resources such as talismans, elixirs, and array plates, have shown extremely significant fluctuations in many markets and immortal cities within the six kingdoms!
Prices are soaring, and supplies are tightening!
Saying,
The steward dared not delay, quickly taking out a jade slip radiating a warm luster from his storage bag, raising it above his head with both hands, and presenting it to him:
"Elder, this jade slip contains detailed data on the price fluctuations of various key strategic materials at major trading points in recent days."
The magnitude and speed of the price increase are alarming!
Cheng Changqing, with a solemn expression, accepted the jade slip without saying a word, and his consciousness instantly immersed itself in it.
The densely packed data within the jade slip flooded his mind like a cold tide—
The price of Fire Serpent Talismans has surged by 30%, Qi-restoring pills are scarce and expensive, and the price of basic defensive array plates has doubled.
Each and every point confirms that the deacon's words were true.
It foreshadows a terrifying impending storm!
The more Cheng Changqing looked, the more his heart sank, and the more his brows furrowed.
A chill ran up my spine.
"The cultivation world is truly about to change!" A storm raged in his heart.
"The future situation is difficult to predict and extremely dangerous!"
No!
Such news, which concerns the survival of the sect and the safety of the patriarch, must be reported to the patriarch immediately for a decision!
There is no time to lose!"
Once this thought arose, Cheng Changqing could no longer sit still.
He suddenly stood up, his magical power surging around him. Before he could even say a word to the steward, his figure transformed into a dazzling streak of light, instantly breaking through the doors of the main hall and speeding away!
Only the empty throne, the echoing sound of something breaking through the air, and the foundation-building deacons in the hall remained.
Not long!
Suddenly, a streak of light flashed across the sky above Baiyun Gate.
Upon seeing this, the many junior disciples below bowed their heads in greeting.
Although these Qi Refining cultivators did not see the true face of the figure streaking through the sky, the altitude at which one could fly was still a symbol of status within the sect.
Only elders at the Golden Core stage could reach such a height.
Although Foundation Establishment cultivators can fly within the sect, there are still limitations on their altitude.
In some places, Foundation Establishment cultivators are also prohibited from flying.
For example, important locations such as the forbidden area behind the mountain, the scripture pagoda, and the treasure vault.
As for those Qi Refining stage cultivators, they do not have the right to fly within the sect.
at the same time.
The streak of light landed steadily outside the forbidden area behind the mountain.
Cheng Changqing stood before the main hall, his robes fluttering.
Before him was a constantly flowing curtain of runes, with countless tiny runes flickering and emanating a vast and ancient array pressure.
His expression was solemn, and with a slight flick of his wrist, a red communication talisman was already between his fingers.
Cheng Changqing's lips moved slightly, and a few secret words transformed into spiritual patterns that disappeared into the talisman. He then tossed it into the air.
The talisman spread its wings like a red bird, drawing a streak of crimson light that pierced through the light barrier and disappeared into the depths of the formation.
In just a few breaths...
The complex array before them seemed to be manipulated by an invisible hand. The flow of runes gradually slowed down, and the light curtain parted to both sides like a water curtain, revealing a light gate that could only accommodate one person at a time.
At the same time, a calm yet highly penetrating voice came from inside the door:
"Changqing, come in."
Upon hearing the sound, Cheng Changqing stepped into the portal without hesitation.
The runes branded on the surface of the light gate also flickered slightly.
next moment!
He was already inside the main hall.
Inside the hall, clouds swirled and spiritual light emanated, while the high dome seemed to hold the movement of stars.
But the most eye-catching figure was the one seated on the high white jade throne—
His face was handsome, like that of a young man, but his eyes were as deep and cold as an ancient pool.
Not bad.
This was none other than Cheng Buzheng, the Nascent Soul Ancestor of the White Cloud Sect.
Unfortunately, Cheng Changqing was unaware that this was merely one of Cheng Buzheng's avatars.
The main body is still in seclusion within the secret realm of Ping'an City.
Upon seeing his ancestor, Cheng Changqing immediately bowed and clasped his hands in a gesture of utmost respect.
"Changqing greets the Ancestor."
Cheng Buzheng's gaze fell, a faint smile appearing on his lips, and he said softly:
"Speak!"
What is the purpose of this audience?
Could it be... that heretical cultivators are causing trouble again?
"That's not the case." Cheng Changqing shook his head, then his expression turned serious, and he clearly and distinctly reported the major intelligence he had just received concerning the turmoil in the entire cultivation world.
He spoke at a steady pace, his words were clear and forceful, and he didn't miss a single detail.
Cheng Buzheng sat quietly listening, his face calm and expressionless, as if what he heard was nothing more than ordinary trivial matters.
There was even a hint of calm in his eyes, as if he had already seen through everything.
After Cheng Changqing finished his report, a thought struck him.
'The ancestor's expression... could it be that he already knew?'
'But since the purge of the heretical cultivators, the Ancestor has almost never left the sect. How could he have known about these sudden changes in the outside world?'
Yes!
Our ancestor's cultivation is extraordinary; he must possess other information channels unknown to us.
Just as his mind was racing, Cheng Buzheng spoke with a half-smile:
"Changqing, in your opinion, how should the sect deal with this rapidly changing situation?"
Cheng Changqing felt a chill run down his spine, knowing that this was the ancestor's deliberate test.
If he can handle this situation properly, he will leave a more significant mark on the patriarch's heart, and his position in the White Cloud Sect will be as stable as Mount Tai, unshakable by anyone else.
therefore.
He did not rush to answer, but instead lowered his head and concentrated, quickly analyzing the advantages and disadvantages, the current situation of the sect, and the external situation in his mind.
Seeing that Cheng Changqing remained silent, Cheng Buzheng did not urge him, but simply looked at him quietly with a deep and unfathomable gaze.
After a long silence, Cheng Changqing finally raised his head, his gaze firmly meeting the figure on the throne, and said in a deep voice:
"This disciple believes that our sect should remain calm and composed, strengthen our defenses, and respond to all changes with constancy."
"Tell me your reasons!"
Cheng Buzheng remained calm, showing neither joy nor anger.
"If this situation had occurred before we annexed the Beicang Sect and the Qingmu Sect, our sect might have been able to take the initiative and expand."
But times have changed. The three medium-sized spiritual veins of Jin are now all in my hands, making me a target for criticism.
"In the past, external forces dared not act rashly, allowing our sect to occupy three medium-sized spiritual veins in the Jin Kingdom:"
Firstly, we are wary of the terrifying combat power you displayed back then, and your connections within the Immortal Alliance.
Secondly, the Immortal Alliance has a strict order, and no one dares to provoke it easily.
But now the Immortal Alliance has changed, and its order is about to collapse...
Those who secretly covet it will surely be eager to make their move.
"Therefore, the most urgent task is not to expand outward, but to safeguard our fundamentals, strengthen border defenses, and observe how the external environment evolves."
It's not too late to make plans once the situation becomes clearer.
"The above are my humble opinions, and I respectfully request the Master's corrections."
After all,
Cheng Changqing held his breath, closely watching Cheng Buzheng's reaction.
Cheng Buzheng smiled slightly, clapped his hands, and said slowly:
"His thinking is clear, and his grasp of the overall situation is also quite good."
However... two places were still overlooked.
"Please enlighten me, Ancestor!" Cheng Changqing immediately bowed.
"Firstly, those Nascent Soul stage monsters have all cultivated for thousands of years, and their minds are as deep as the sea."
Before the news is confirmed, we will never easily violate the order established by the Immortal Alliance.
Secondly, you have underestimated my strength.
Not bad.
Cheng Buzheng prepared to reveal some of his cultivation level to put this junior at ease.
At the same time, Cheng Buzheng's aura suddenly changed.
The immense and overwhelming pressure of the late-stage Nascent Soul realm emanated from him, instantly enveloping the entire hall like a hundred thousand mountains descending from the sky, yet it was released and then immediately withdrawn, as if it were an illusion.
Although it was only a fleeting moment, Cheng Changqing, with his Golden Core cultivation, clearly sensed it—
The overwhelming sense of oppression from his own side was something only a late-stage Nascent Soul cultivator could bring—an absolute deterrent!
"Our ancestor truly deserves to be called the founder of my Cheng Clan of Immortals."
Exceptionally gifted, unparalleled in the world.
At that moment, a look of shock flashed in his eyes, which then turned into ecstatic joy:
"Ancestor, you...you've broken through?!"
Cheng Buzheng smiled calmly:
"During these years of guarding the cultivation world of the six kingdoms, my cultivation has not lagged behind."
A surge of heroic spirit welled up in Cheng Changqing's heart, and all his previous concerns vanished.
With a late-stage Nascent Soul ancestor in charge, what does Baiyun Sect have to fear from the storms of the outside world?
even……
His mind raced, and he immediately spoke:
"Congratulations, Ancestor, on breaking through to the next realm!"
In that case, could our sect seize this opportunity to take a further step...?
“No need,” Cheng Buzheng interrupted him, shaking his head.
"The news of the Nascent Soul Venerable's fall remains unconfirmed..."
Other forces dare not act rashly, and our sect must also maintain normal operations.
"Yes, disciple understands."
Cheng Changqing suppressed his excitement and respectfully accepted the order.
"Go, and do not mention today's words to outsiders."
"Disciple obey!"
Cheng Changqing bowed again and slowly withdrew from the main hall.
The portal closed silently behind him, and the runes flowed once more, enveloping the forbidden hall in a deep and unfathomable light curtain.
Inside the hall, Cheng Buzheng's gaze swept across the void, his smile deepening.
But no one knew what he was thinking.
...(End of this chapter)
UGB