"Hateful boy!" The third-rank flood dragon circled in the air, furious beyond measure. "How dare you humiliate this seat like this! This seat wishes it could devour you alive on the spot!"
"In my father's words, if you can do it, then do it. Don't just yap. A dignified third-rank flood dragon buzzing around like a fly."
"You!"
"This truly enrages this seat!"
The third-rank flood dragon's phantom immediately dove into Jade Cold Pool and fell silent.
"A flood dragon that's lived for thousands of years—that's it?" Xu Mingxian shook his head speechlessly. "Doesn't look too smart. No wonder it got sealed here."
Half an hour later, Zhou Qingfang and the other Zhou family cultivators stood beside Xu Mingwei.
This action already made the Zhou family's attitude clear.
Feng Xiuyuan swept his gaze over them, finally landing on Zhou Qingfang. He said coldly, "Brother Zhou insists on opposing my Feng family?"
"Hehe, what magnanimous 'letting past matters go.' I want to see what your Zhou family can do to my Feng family?"
Feng Xiuyuan's eyes turned icy cold. With a wave of his sleeve robe, he said, "Everyone, attack the grand array with full force!"
"After breaking the grand array, leave the Zhou family's Foundation Establishment cultivator to me. Kill all the rest!"
"Yes, Ancestor (Senior)!"
Fifty to sixty elite disciples arrayed themselves outside the Xu family's Clan Protection Grand Array, their robes fluttering as spiritual qi surged.
Among them, late-stage Qi Refining cultivators comprised seventy to eighty percent. When their fingertips formed hand seals, the spiritual light around them actually painted half the sky in alternating light and darkness.
First, over a dozen late-stage Qi Refining cultivators formed hand seals with both hands. The surrounding heaven and earth spiritual qi became frantically agitated. Over ten spells broke through the air first.
Crimson flames fell like meteors toward the array wall, exploding into zhang-high waves of fire upon impact. Azure lightning coiled like silver serpents with crackling sounds that tore through the air.
Even more pale golden earth spikes rose from the ground like bamboo shoots, piercing straight at the array screen.
Following the spells, dozens of flying swords condensed into cold gleams—some forming sword rain that poured down, others transforming into light blades that slashed horizontally. The dense metallic sounds of breaking air interweaved with the roar of spells.
The yellow-tinged array light screen rippled violently where struck, the fluctuations growing increasingly intense.
In less than half an incense stick's time, the grand array had begun to tremble violently.
This bombardment continued for a quarter hour.
"Break for me!"
The Bai family Grand Elder formed sword fingers and controlled an ink-colored flying sword to stab fiercely into the Earthen Defense Array's wall.
The array wall suddenly burst with spider-web-like cracks.
The cracks spread at a speed visible to the naked eye.
In just an instant, a tremendous "boom" resounded.
The entire azure-tinged light screen shattered!
Countless spiritual light fragments drifted down like severed paper kites.
Even the ground shook, raising half a foot of dust.
Before the spiritual light had fully dispersed and while the aftershocks still spread across the ground, a crimson stream of light suddenly broke through the air from the crowd outside the array.
It was Feng Xiuyuan. With a wave of his sleeve robe, a completely crimson flying sword shot forth.
The sword body was wrapped in substantial flame-like spiritual qi. Where it passed, the air seemed to twist from burning. Even surrounding Qi Refining cultivators were forced to retreat repeatedly by this Foundation Establishment pressure, their breathing catching.
The crimson flying sword pointed directly at Xu Mingyuan inside the array.
Seeing this flying sword attacking, Xu Mingyuan's pupils suddenly contracted, but his expression didn't change much. He was merely shocked by the power of a top-tier magical artifact in a Foundation Establishment cultivator's hands.
"Fellow Daoist Feng, attacking a junior is somewhat unseemly. Let this Zhou accompany you in combat instead."
A deep shout came from the left. Zhou Qingfang's form flashed like lightning, instantly reaching in front of Xu Mingyuan.
His right hand formed sword fingers, condensing a pale blue water screen at his fingertips. Simultaneously, with a wave of his sleeve robe, an azure wood sword flew out, transforming into a beam of azure light that collided head-on with the crimson flying sword.
"Clang—"
The two flying swords collided thunderously. Crimson and azure sword qi surged, producing light that filled the sky. The shockwave sent weaker cultivators flying several zhang.
Then the two rose into the air, flying to high altitude to engage in combat.
Before long, Zhou Qingfang produced another top-tier magical artifact—Profound Ink Peak. With a single hand gesture, it instantly expanded to three or four zhang in size and charged at Feng Xiuyuan.
"Don't think you're the only one with two top-tier magical artifacts!"
As he spoke, Feng Xiuyuan slapped his storage bag. A crystal-blue flying sword flew out, its surface shrouded in mist.
"Go!"
The crystal-blue flying sword stabbed straight at the three-four zhang tall Profound Ink Peak.
Boom!
Terrifying energy burst forth again.
The crystal-blue flying sword emitted cold qi. Ice formed on the surface of the Profound Ink Peak. However, because the Profound Ink Peak was extremely heavy, ordinary weapons simply couldn’t withstand its impact.
Therefore, the crystal-blue flying sword was sent flying.
"Truly an excellent magical artifact!" Feng Xiuyuan's eyes brightened.
In terms of value alone, this Profound Ink Peak magical artifact exceeded the crystal-blue flying sword.
Feng Xiuyuan immediately recalled his other crimson flying sword.
The crystal-blue flying sword in his left hand emanated bone-piercing cold, fine ice flowers condensing as the blade flowed. The crimson flying sword in his right hand wrapped in roaring flames, sparks falling as the sword body trembled.
His eyes focused as magical power like a tidal wave surged into both swords.
The cold qi from the crystal-blue flying sword and the flames from the crimson flying sword suddenly left the blades. The originally mutually restraining ice and fire spiritual lights actually intertwined under his control.
Ice crystals wrapped in flames rotated. Flames carried ice crystals racing forward. Red and white spiritual lights wove into a spiral light column.
Zhou Qingfang's expression changed drastically. He didn't dare show the slightest negligence.
His hands rapidly formed seals. The Profound Ink Peak flew before him, expanding again to seven or eight zhang with the wind.
Its full power was revealed, emanating an aura as heavy as mountains.
Zhou Qingfang suddenly pushed his palms forward, charging toward the red-white spiral light column with a fierce collision.
The instant the two Foundation Establishment cultivators engaged.
Elite disciples from the Feng and Bai families either formed spells or controlled flying swords, killing toward the Xu family disciples.
Although the Xu family cultivators were fewer in number, they weren't willing to show weakness and met the enemy head-on.
Flying swords colliding with magical shields, metallic clanging sounds, spell roars, and cultivators' shouts rose and fell.
Dongxi completely descended into chaotic battle. Thousands of acres of rice paddies were bombarded by spells into pits everywhere. Spiritual light fragments continuously rained down like falling rain.
Innate realm martial artists formed groups of six to resist attacks from Bai and Feng family cultivators.
Grandmasters paired up in twos.
Under orderly coordination, they also tied down a small portion of the cultivators.
Late-stage Qi Refining cultivators from the Bai and Feng families attacked Xu Mingwei's group and other cultivators.
Though the scene was chaotic, there was order within the chaos.
After a stalemate, surprisingly not a single Xu family member had fallen. Only some martial artists and cultivators were injured.
They were continuously pulling the battle line inward, appearing to be gradually pushed back.
The Bai and Feng family sides didn't notice anything unusual at all.
"About time."
Xu Mingyuan thought to himself, taking out a sound transmission talisman that transformed into a beam of fire instantly disappearing into the mountains.
Shortly after, four light pillars shot up from Dongxi's four directions.
An azure light pillar to the east, a green light pillar to the west, a crimson light pillar to the south, and a black light pillar to the north.
The light pillars rose into the sky. A light screen rapidly spread out, connected, until it finally completely closed.
This sudden change left the Bai and Feng family cultivators somewhat dazed.
What's going on?
There's another grand array inside the Xu family's Clan Protection Grand Array?
Feng Xiuyuan's brows also furrowed tightly. He felt this grand array seemed extraordinarily formidable.
Just at this moment, several hundred meters behind the Xu family members, another grand array rose, emitting faint azure-tinged light.
"Not good, we've been tricked!"
Feng Xiuyuan's expression immediately changed drastically.
They were now completely trapped within the grand array, unable to advance or retreat.
The Bai and Feng family cultivators also reacted, each showing worry on their faces.
The chaotic attacks suddenly ceased completely.
Xu Mingyuan smiled faintly, his voice spreading all around. "Big Brother, Mingshu, Dezhao, Deling, and all the Zhou family elders—the situation is set. No need to hold back anymore."
"Hehe, Second Brother, I've been waiting for you to say that." Xu Mingshu's eyes gleamed green.
Xu Mingxuan sighed slightly. "It's a pity that at such an important moment for the Xu family, I can't help."
Xu Dezhao also said, "Everyone, don't hold back!"
"Those who dare offend our Xu family, death is the only outcome!"
Xu Mingwei transmitted to Xu Deling, "Hold back a bit."
"Yes, Father."
Xu Mingyuan also reminded Xu Mingshu, "Don't use your beast taming methods. Just use the Black Evil Banner Father gave you."
"I know, Second Brother."
Xu Mingwei's ink-colored long robe rustled fiercely in the wind.
In his hands appeared a pitch-black longbow at some point. Four arrows emanating ghostly light were arrayed on the bow arm, the arrowheads tempered with faint spiritual light.
"Whoosh—whoosh—whoosh—whoosh!"
Four sharp breaking sounds suddenly exploded like startling thunder tearing through the stagnant air.
As the arrows left the string, they dragged ink-colored tails like black lightning. Before people could react, they had already taken the lives of four sixth-layer Qi Refining cultivators.
"Kill!" Xu Dezhao let out a roar from his throat.
Azure scales surrounded Xu Mingyuan—one large and eight small azure flying knives. Magical power continuously poured in. The Azure Scale Mother-Child Flying Knives, this superior-grade magical artifact set, finally revealing its power.
Holding a long blade with eight flying knives circling around him, dragging long azure trailing lights, he charged toward the Bai and Feng family cultivators.
Xu Mingshu wielded the Black Evil Banner. As she waved it, black yin clouds rolled. Countless sha winds let out beast-like roars.
"Go!"
The Black Sha wind similarly swept toward those Feng and Bai family cultivators.
Additionally, Xu Dezhao's Azure Sky sword left its sheath, azure cold light illuminating the sky. One look revealed its formidable power.
Xu Deling formed hand seals. Crimson spiritual lights condensed into feathers—hundreds, thousands, a shocking sight to behold.
"Four superior-grade magical artifacts, and the other late-stage Qi Refining cultivators all have superior-grade magical artifacts. What profound foundation the Xu family has!"
The Zhou family elders watched with shock, but didn't think much of it and immediately launched their attacks.
They were all ninth-layer Qi Refining cultivators.
Each also possessed superior-grade magical artifacts. However, even the two at Qi Refining perfection only had superior-grade artifacts, not superior-grade ones like these several 'seventh-layer Qi Refining cultivators' who all wielded superior-grade magical artifacts.
In the blink of an eye, over a dozen Bai and Feng family cultivators fell.
High in the sky, seeing Bai and Feng family cultivators with almost no ability to fight back, Feng Xiuyuan's eyes nearly split with rage.
"So this was your plan to lure us into a trap!"
"Such deep scheming! It was that person called Xu Mingyuan who laid this out, wasn't it?"
Zhou Qingfang smiled faintly at Feng Xiuyuan. "What else does Brother Feng want to say? I already told you earlier to leave, but you wouldn't listen."
"That was just your provocation strategy!"
Feng Xiuyuan now completely understood, everything was within that Xu family junior's plans.
Layer upon layer.
Even though the Ge family people were unexpectedly stupid beyond his expectations, he had already formulated multiple plans before everyone arrived.
This strategic scheming made even him, a Foundation Establishment cultivator, feel his spine turn cold.
"Brother Zhou, the Xu family is too terrifying. The scheming of Xu family members in a remote clan territory, they actually have three layers of grand arrays. The outermost first-rank superior-grade array formation was merely a disguise. But the two arrays that rose previously, I don't believe Brother Zhou couldn't tell that they're both second-rank grand arrays. Even for us Foundation Establishment aristocratic families to set up one second-rank grand array requires considerable cost. Moreover, look at the leading Xu family members, all wielding superior-grade magical artifacts, even superior-grade magical artifact sets. Late-stage Qi Refining, even seventh-layer Qi Refining all possess superior-grade magical artifacts. Having such a terrifying Qi Refining aristocratic family beside your Zhou family—aren't you afraid?"
Zhou Qingfang smiled faintly. "Who wouldn't be afraid? What happens afterward, this Zhou doesn't know. But at least while this old man lives, our two families will only coexist peacefully. As for afterward, the Xu family probably won't even care about our Zhou family anymore."
Hearing this, Feng Xiuyuan's brows furrowed slightly. "Brother Zhou speaks so confidently, could it be your two families have already formed an alliance? And it's no ordinary alliance?!"
Zhou Qingfang didn't answer directly. "The Xu family's potential, my Zhou family sees it more clearly than you. Those few people you find terrifying, but their father is the most unfathomably deep. After all, they were all raised and taught by him. Unfortunately, he's not at the Xu family recently. Otherwise, Brother Feng could have met him."
Feng Xiuyuan's brows locked tightly.
Zhou Qingfang's divine consciousness swept over the Qi Refining cultivator battlefield. The overall situation was already decided.
Of course, the Xu family having so many superior-grade magical artifacts also surprised him.
After all, the Zhou family currently only had five pieces, with one traded to the Yunshan Commandery Feng family a few years ago.
He held the Azure Wood flying sword in one hand and supported the Profound Ink Peak with the other. His gray robes continuously rustled in the high altitude, his expression extremely calm.
"Originally, your Feng family and the Xu family currently should have no connection whatsoever. Unfortunately, because of Qi Refining aristocratic families in your camp, you waded into the Xu family's muddy waters. The Xu family kept a low profile, not wanting trouble. But your Feng family developed thoughts of seizing the Xu family's resources. Brother Feng, things reaching this state, it's entirely your own fault!"
"You think you alone can take me down?"
Feng Xiuyuan's expression had turned from gloomy to iron-blue. The two ice-flame attribute top-tier flying swords in his hands immediately burst forth with shocking pressure.
Crimson flames raged wildly, cold mist billowed.
"Or do you mean adding those Qi Refining stage cultivators?"
"If they dare interfere, even if I die, I'll make them pay a heavy price!"
Zhou Qingfang smiled. "Does Brother Feng still think the Xu family is a Qi Refining aristocratic family?"
"What do you mean? Could it be..."
"If the Xu family had someone enter Foundation Establishment, they could announce it widely and advance to a Foundation Establishment aristocratic family. Why would my Feng family fight to the death with another commandery's Foundation Establishment aristocratic family over a subordinate Qi Refining aristocratic family!"
"This is what makes the Xu family different. As I said before, the Xu family is extremely low-profile. Before they feel they can firmly establish themselves as a Foundation Establishment aristocratic family, they definitely won't easily expose themselves. Unfortunately, your Feng family's unexpected actions forced them to expose themselves. Otherwise, even my Zhou family wouldn't have known."
"Who is the Xu family's Foundation Establishment cultivator? Is it the Xu family ancestor you mentioned earlier who's not here?"
"This Zhou also doesn't know." Zhou Qingfang said indifferently. "Having said so much, it's time to send Brother Feng on your way. Compared to your Feng family ancestor, you're truly lacking—not by just a bit!"
With those words.
The two engaged in combat again.
All the Feng and Bai family cultivators had also been completely wiped out.
Because of their final madness, the Xu family lost over a dozen innate realm martial artists.
Over a dozen cultivators were severely injured by late-stage Qi Refining opponents' self-detonations.
This was still because they all had medium-grade defensive magical artifacts. If they only had inferior-grade defensive magical artifacts, several might already be dead.
The Bai family Grand Elder was nearly desperate and also wanted to self-detonate to severely injure the Xu family's core clan members but Xu Mingxuan used all his magical power to execute Shadow Awl in a sneak attack, piercing through his head.
His current magical power was only enough for him to execute it once.
In the chaos, only he sensed the crisis and acted in time.
Otherwise, if a Qi Refining perfection cultivator truly self-detonated, Xu Mingwei and the others might only be injured.
But Xu Derui, Xu Deheng, Shen Qingyi, Zhang Wanqing, Wu Tao, and others, even if they didn't die, they would be severely injured and their immortal path might be severed.
Xu Mingshu felt fear afterward and gave a thumbs up to the pale-faced Xu Mingxuan. "Look to Big Brother in favorable times, but in desperate situations, we still have to look to Third Brother!"
Xu Mingxuan immediately consumed a superior-grade Return Origin Pill, then said, "That Bai family Grand Elder had also completely lost his composure, only thinking of mutual destruction with our Xu family. Otherwise, I wouldn't have been confident in a successful sneak attack."
Xu Dezhao said, "Everyone, turn in the items from the Bai and Feng family cultivators. This battle, those who died, our Xu family will generously compensate their families. Those who killed enemies and defended our Xu family will also be rewarded with cultivation resources."
"Thank you, Family Head." Everyone cupped their fists toward Xu Dezhao then Xu Dezhao said to the Zhou family elders, "Elders, the items on those you killed, you may take them first."
"Thank you, Xu Family Head." They also cupped their fists with smiles.
When it came to resources, no one would complain about having too little.
As Xu Dezhao arranged post-battle matters, Xu Mingwei, Xu Mingshu, Xu Mingyuan, and Xu Deling looked toward the high-altitude Foundation Establishment battlefield.
"Big Brother, should we go help the Zhou family ancestor?" Xu Mingshu asked.
Xu Mingwei was eager to try. His current magical power could still use his strongest killing move once—Four Symbols Strangling Kill.
After creating it previously, he'd never had a suitable opponent to test its true power.
Back then, Feng Qingyang's strength was decent, but only forced out his "Three Stars Reflecting Moon."
Xu Mingyuan suddenly grinned at Xu Mingwei. "Big Brother, Xiaoyao has returned. He just transmitted to me. This way our Xu family can preserve the killing move trump card of the Four Symbols Heaven Force Array."
Seeing his eagerness, he continued, "Big Brother, if you want to fight, then fight. We'll support you. If absolutely necessary, there's still Xiaoyao."
"Thank you!"
Xu Mingwei had previously also consumed Return Origin Pills and had now recovered somewhat.
He aimed the Ink Flood Dragon Bow at Feng Xiuyuan. His remaining magical power poured in almost endlessly. Four arrow shafts burst forth with infinite killing intent.
Their sharp edge was so intense, invisible blade winds were like small knives.
Surrounding people were all forced to retreat three or four zhang away.
"Is this Big Brother's strongest attack?" Xu Mingshu's beautiful eyes widened. "So everything before was just playing around!"
Xu Mingyuan's eyes rippled. This bearing was truly his big brother.
A Foundation Establishment cultivator—so what? Even across a major realm, he dared compete with them!
"Father, so strong."
Xu Dezhao's eyes were full of worship. As fellow Qi Refining perfection cultivators, he held an even stronger superior-grade magical artifact, yet couldn't unleash such terrifying attacks.
Xu Mingwei had gradually walked his own path.
Such people were few and far between.
Not even one might emerge from hundreds or thousands.
Of course, the Azure Force Sword Formula also had powerful sword techniques, but cultivation was difficult. Xu Dezhao had only mastered one technique so far.
Seeing Xu Mingwei wanting to interfere in Foundation Establishment cultivator combat, the Zhou family's Qi Refining perfection cultivators all showed shocked expressions.
Had he gone mad?
His attack was terrifyingly powerful!
The two exchanged glances, both feeling that if they tried to block it, they would die!
Xu Mingwei’s killing intent naturally became apparent, also attracting Feng Xiuyuan and Zhou Qingfang’s attention. His continuously rising power made both feel an intense threat.
"Truly enviable of the Xu family, not only having those with unmatched combat power, but also those with unmatched intelligence!"
"Hmph, a Qi Refining stage cultivator dares to be presumptuous."
Feng Xiuyuan snorted coldly. He and Zhou Qingfang were evenly matched. They couldn't decide victory in a short time.
At this moment, Xu Mingwei's arrow momentum finally finished condensing.
He shouted loudly.
"Senior Feng, dare you take my arrow!"
"Junior, don't be arrogant!"
Feng Xiuyuan controlled the crimson flying sword with full force, unleashing its power. Flames towered to the sky, not only to deal with Xu Mingwei, but also wanting to annihilate everyone else together.
"All of you, die!"
"Everyone retreat outside the grand array!" Xu Dezhao immediately ordered.
Xu family martial artists and cultivators, as well as Zhou family elders, all complied.
Only Xu Mingyuan, Xu Mingshu, Xu Dezhao, and Xu Deling remained beside Xu Mingwei.
Xu Mingxuan was weak and also left the Four Symbols Heaven Force Array with Zhang Wanqing.
Zhou Qingfang blasted out the Profound Ink Peak to divide Feng Xiuyuan's attention.
At this moment, Xu Mingwei's four arrows suddenly burst forth with azure dragon roars, white tiger howls, vermillion bird cries, and black tortoise bellows.
Their spiritual power transformed into the four cardinal spirits.
Feng Xiuyuan showed an incredulous expression. "It faintly contains array formation intent?!"
"Four Spirits Strangling Kill," relying on its terrifying offensive power, directly tore open a gap in the sea of fire. The arrow point aimed straight at Feng Xiuyuan.
The four spirits roared through the sea of fire. Feng Xiuyuan only controlled the crimson flying sword to slash fiercely at it but he underestimated arrow path.
Arrow path's greatest strength lay in its penetrating power and incomparable impact force.
Feng Xiuyuan was currently being restrained by Zhou Qingfang. Most of his divine consciousness naturally controlled the crystal-blue flying sword to counter the Profound Ink Peak.
The instant the arrow-transformed four spirits collided with the crimson flying sword, an impact no less than Feng Xiuyuan and Zhou Qingfang's clash erupted.
Finally, with a ringing sword cry.
The crimson flying sword was directly blasted away.
Of course, the four spirits also exhausted their energy and suddenly exploded, transforming into an impact that swept in all directions.
"Good opportunity!"
Zhou Qingfang seized the moment, controlling the Azure Wood flying sword with incomparably sharp sword momentum, slashing toward his head.
Whoever kills the Feng family's Foundation Establishment cultivator gets the lion's share!
Zhou Qingfang naturally wouldn't yield!
However, Feng Xiuyuan suddenly produced a superior-grade defensive magical artifact from his sleeve robe. Hastily activated, it barely blocked the Azure Wood flying sword but his defense couldn't last long.
He hurriedly made a mental connection, trying to recall the crimson flying sword.
It was said then fast.
A several-zhang-long five-colored light sword suddenly appeared at close range, instantly piercing through his body at lightning speed.
Five-colored spiritual light burst forth.
His entire body exploded into a cloud of blood mist!
So fast, so sudden—Feng Xiuyuan didn't even have time to let out a scream before dying.
Zhou Qingfang was also stunned in place.
He died just like that?
His gaze turned toward the suddenly appearing person, a youth with an aura restrained to the extreme, almost like a mortal.
But he stood in the void, undoubtedly a Foundation Establishment cultivator.
Tall and straight as a lone pine on a snowy peak, wearing an azure cloud crown, his face like a cold pool reflecting the moon, his skin lustrous as Kunlun jade, eyebrows slanting into his temples like unsheathed swords, eyes faintly showing star light, thunder seemed to generate when he glanced around.
An azure-scaled wide-sleeved robe billowed in the gale winds. As the robes rolled, they revealed an inner lining densely woven with silver-threaded dragon-fish patterns.
On his back hung a three-to-four-chi-long five-colored spirit casket. Five flying swords rang out, circled in the air, then fell in a fan shape behind him with sword points outward.
Those five flying swords had five colors—representing the five elements, emanating five-element spiritual power.
Zhou Qingfang could tell at a glance that their quality was excellent. Each was a superior work among superior-grade artifacts. The five-element swords were connected in timing—clearly a set magical artifact.
"This person is the Xu family's Foundation Establishment cultivator? How is he so young, appearing not even thirty? Could he have appearance-preserving techniques?"
Zhou Qingfang speculated the other party might possess appearance-preserving techniques.
He saw the youth collect Feng Xiuyuan's two flying swords and storage bag, then fly before Xu Mingwei and the others.
Zhou Qingfang thought Xu Mingwei's group would bow, but instead this Foundation Establishment cultivator bowed to them one by one.
"Greetings, Father-in-law, Uncle, Aunt, Family Head."
This person was none other than Ren Xiaoyao who had rushed back.
Xu Mingyuan had Zhou Qingfang stall for half an hour precisely to wait for Ren Xiaoyao then Ren Xiaoyao smiled and greeted Xu Deling. "Sister Deling."
Xu Deling smiled and nodded.
Ren Xiaoyao handed the storage bag and flying swords to Xu Dezhao. "I'll leave these for the Family Head to handle."
"I'll handle them properly," Xu Dezhao said.
"Xiaoyao, fortunately you returned in time." Xu Mingxuan and the others also flew over on swords.
At this time, the two grand arrays gradually dissipated.
In mid-air above Jade Cold Pool, that old dragon curled his lip. "Truly a bunch of trash. They couldn't even force your Xu family to unleash the grand array's full power. How boring."
With those words, he dove back into Jade Cold Pool and disappeared.
Xu Mingxian shook his head and left Jade Cold Pool on his sword.
Xu Dezhao began handling post-battle matters.
Xu Mingyuan said to Zhou Qingfang, "Speed is of the essence in war. Senior Zhou, have someone return to summon forces to make a trip to Guangling Commandery's Feng family. Our Xu family will depart immediately. Will you come along?"
"Naturally."
Zhou Qingfang immediately had one Qi Refining perfection elder return to the Zhou family to call people.
Xu Mingyuan also needed to select who from the Xu family would go to Guangling Commandery.
Naturally, Shen Qingyi and Zhang Wanqing didn't need to go. Those below the sixth layer of Qi Refining also weren't necessary.
Therefore, not many from the Xu family went—all told, a dozen or so people, including Xu Derui and Xu Deheng.
Of course, the cultivation levels they displayed were fourth and fifth layers of Qi Refining respectively.
Xu Dezhao stayed to guard the family and handle various affairs, so he wasn't going for now.
Xu Mingxian might need to break array formations, so he needed to go. Xu Mingwei, Xu Mingyuan, Xu Mingshu, and Xu Mingxuan were all going.
Xu Mingxuan was going because of his fortune-seeking, danger-avoiding talent—as a precaution.
If there was truly danger, he could provide warning.
Xu Deling would stay by his side to ensure his safety.
Those with less magical power consumption piloted boat artifacts. Xu Mingwei, Xu Mingyuan and the others sat cross-legged on the boats, recovering magical power.
On the way, Zhou Qingfang suddenly asked, "Fellow Daoist Mingyuan, dare I ask this Fellow Daoist's background? I don't seem to have heard that the Xu family had such a person."
Xu Mingyuan smiled. "Senior, this is my son-in-law, named Ren Xiaoyao. He's our Xu family's Foundation Establishment cultivator and also my disciple. His talent is outstanding."
"He just usually focuses wholeheartedly on cultivation, so he has no reputation in our Xu family."
"I see."
Xu Mingyuan also said to Ren Xiaoyao, "Xiaoyao, this is the Zhou family ancestor, Senior Zhou Qingfang."
"Senior Zhou." Ren Xiaoyao cupped his fists.
"No need for 'senior.' Since we're both Foundation Establishment cultivators, we can address each other as Fellow Daoists, or you can call me Brother Zhou."
"Fellow Daoist Zhou," Ren Xiaoyao said.
Zhou Qingfang nodded slightly, then said to Xu Mingyuan, "Speaking of which, with less than thirty of us going to the Feng family? Why not wait a bit longer for my Zhou family disciples?"
"Does Senior think the Feng family ancestor is confused?"
"What do you mean?" Zhou Qingfang showed a puzzled expression.
"This junior thinks that at this very moment, the Feng family is probably urgently fleeing Guangling Commandery. Going early, we should still get some resources. Going late, there probably won't be much left to obtain."
When numerous elders and elite disciples died, the disciple guarding the Life Lamp Pavilion immediately reported this matter to Feng family head Feng Wande.
He also immediately went to find the Feng family ancestor.
The Feng family ancestor only had less than two years of lifespan remaining and was prepared to peacefully pass away.
Who knew Feng Wande would give him such a surprise.
Knowing Feng Xiuyuan had led them to Yuehu Commandery, the Feng family ancestor didn't bother scolding. He immediately went to the Life Lamp Pavilion to personally guard Feng Xiuyuan's life lamp and instructed Feng Wande to prepare.
"Ancestor, prepare what?"
The Feng family ancestor said in exasperation, "Naturally to organize resources and leave Guangling Commandery."
"Is that really necessary? Just going to deal with a newly-ascended Qi Refining family, even if the Zhou family's Foundation Establishment cultivator intervenes, it shouldn't be possible to keep Ancestor Xiuyuan there, right?"
"All the disciples who went are dead. Do you think there's anything that's impossible?" The Feng family ancestor wished he could slap Feng Wande to death with one palm.
"Why wasn't I informed about going to Yuehu Commandery to trouble other families?"
"Wande thought that Ancestor Xiuyuan and the others were merely going to question a newly-ascended Qi Refining family. It shouldn't cause problems, so I didn't disturb you, Ancestor."
Feng Wande lowered his head, not daring to look at his expression.
"A mere Qi Refining family dares to casually extend their reach into other commanderies? Unless they're truly audacious beyond measure or have confidence. Moreover, that Xu family established the Xu Family Commercial Firm. At a glance, their ambition and methods are far from low.
Are all your brains made of pig fat?
How much worse can such a Qi Refining family be compared to Foundation Establishment families? Yet you ignorantly ran to their clan territory to question them?
Do you think my Feng family is the Great Wei imperial Cao clan?"
Just as he was loudly reprimanding them, suddenly a gust of cold wind blew.
Poof!
Feng Xiuyuan's life lamp extinguished.
The Feng family ancestor helplessly closed his eyes. After a moment, he opened them and said coldly, "Have some people gather the family's core members and elites, and have others collect the medicinal garden's spirit herbs and gather the family's treasures.
In one hour, we must leave Guangling Commandery.
Remember, whether it's the medicinal garden or family treasures, leave behind thirty percent."
"Ancestor, where are we going? My Feng family has operated here for hundreds of years. Are we just abandoning it like this?"
"Are you waiting for the Yuehu Commandery Xu family and Zhou family to come completely annex my Feng family?"
"But don't we have you, Ancestor?"
"I have less than two years of lifespan remaining. How can I fight? To kill Xiuyuan, they must have two Foundation Establishment cultivators. And even if we can resist the Yuehu Commandery cultivators, what about the Wei family?
When they learn Xiuyuan is dead and only this old fossil remains, do you think they'll just watch without wanting to take a bite?
Once we're slow to leave, my Feng family might face four Foundation Establishment cultivators and large numbers of cultivators. If it really comes to that, my Feng family won't be far from extermination."
Cold sweat poured down Feng Wande's forehead.
After hearing the Feng family ancestor's explanation, he finally understood the Feng family truly faced catastrophe.
"Then Ancestor, why leave thirty percent behind?"
"This is called leaving room for maneuver!" the Feng family ancestor said. "With these resources, they won't pursue my Feng family to death.
Moreover, without meat, how will the Wei family and Yuehu Commandery people fight like dogs?"
"Wande understands now. Thirty percent of the resources isn't little, but it's only enough for one family to eat their fill!"
"You're not completely stupid after all."
"Then Ancestor, where are we going?"
"The Imperial City!" The Feng family ancestor's gaze was distant. "Before I die, this ancestor will leave the Feng family a place to settle. As for afterward, it depends on your own fortune."
The Feng family ancestor only took the Feng family's core members and elite disciples when leaving.
The remaining Feng family disciples all became abandoned pawns.
His decisiveness in action and hardness of heart were truly rare.
When they left Guangling Commandery, almost everyone in Guangling Commandery noticed the anomaly. They thought the Feng family cultivators were going to attack some cultivation family, which was why there was such a grand spectacle.
Meanwhile, when the Bai family head learned that the Grand Elder and many Bai family elders and elites had died outside, he lost his composure and slumped into a chair, murmuring, "My Bai family is finished."
After a long while, he suddenly awakened. "That's right, the Feng family..."
The Bai family head immediately went to the Feng family to investigate.
At that moment, several flying boats streaked across the sky, arriving at the Feng family's clan territory.
"These people..."
"Could they be the ones who destroyed my Bai family and the Feng family? Where are the Feng family's Foundation Establishment experts? Could they also..."
No matter how hard he tried, the Bai family head couldn't figure it out.
Dozens of elite disciples, over ten late-stage Qi Refining elders, plus the Feng family's elites and Foundation Establishment expert, they merely went to a newly-ascended Qi Refining family.
How could things reach this state?
Was that really a newly-ascended Qi Refining family?
Even if they invaded a Foundation Establishment family's clan territory, not everyone would be completely wiped out, right?
"Go to the Wei family. The Feng family's great edifice is collapsing. The Wei family definitely doesn't know yet. If I offer this news as intelligence, perhaps I can join the Wei family's camp and gain a lifeline."
The Bai family head immediately retreated.
Zhou Qingfang swept the area with his divine consciousness. Many places in the Feng family's clan territory were quite chaotic.
He glanced at Xu Mingyuan, secretly sighing that this young man's thoughts were truly meticulous.
"Young Friend Mingyuan, you guessed correctly indeed. The resources left here shouldn't be much, and this Clan Protection Grand Array should have been taken away.
Moreover, the Feng clan members remaining here should all be abandoned pawns."
Xu Mingyuan said indifferently, "Senior Zhou, you still remember our previous agreement, right? I want the Feng family's clan territory. As for the remaining resources, divide them into three portions.
My Xu family takes one portion, your Zhou family takes one and a half portions."
"One and a half portions? Then there's still half a portion..." Zhou Qingfang thought briefly then said, "You plan to give it to the Wei family?"
"Since my Xu family wants to occupy this Feng family clan territory, we must give them some face, and also leave room for maneuver with the Wei family. Although our two families joining forces naturally don't fear the Wei family, fighting back and forth is truly troublesome.
To quickly stabilize the Guangling Commandery situation, we must stabilize the Wei family."
"Intimidate on one hand, show goodwill on the other. Young Friend Mingyuan, your considerations are indeed thorough."
"Then let's begin. First expel all the Feng family people." Xu Mingyuan cupped his fists toward Zhou Qingfang. "I must ask Senior to come forward. My Xu family temporarily doesn't want to make a big show of it.
Even if we're to advance to a Foundation Establishment family, we must wait until my father returns before discussing it."
"Very well. For your father's sake, this old man will be the scapegoat this once."
Subsequently, Zhou Qingfang's Foundation Establishment pressure spread out, covering over ten li around them. His rumbling voice transformed into thunder.
"Feng family disciples, listen. Your Feng family's Foundation Establishment cultivator Feng Xiuyuan led people to attack my Yuehu Commandery and has been destroyed by my Zhou family together with the Xu family.
Your ancestor also led the elites away. The remaining ones among you are merely abandoned pawns.
This place will belong to Yuehu Commandery's Xu family.
You have one quarter hour to leave. If anyone hasn't left by then, or takes what they shouldn't take, they will all be regarded as attacking the Xu family's clan territory."
The voice echoed in the air again and again.
Many Feng clan members were dumbstruck.
My Feng family is finished?!
"What kind of joke is this? The ancestor merely led people away. When they return, you'll get what's coming to you."
"Ancestor Feng Xiuyuan died? Impossible, right?"
"The speaker is a Foundation Establishment expert... Quickly go check the Life Lamp Pavilion!"
"The family head's life lamp, the Grand Elder's life lamp, many elite disciples' life lamps are also gone... And Ancestor Xiuyuan's life lamp really extinguished!"
In an instant, the entire Feng family erupted in clamor, falling into complete chaos.
The Feng family population was extremely large. The elites and their families the Feng family ancestor took away were less than one-tenth. Although Xu Mingyuan and his group could completely annihilate them, it would be too troublesome.
Better to let them flee for their lives.
In Guangling Commandery, there would naturally be families and rogue cultivators who hated the Feng family who would kick them while they were down.
Zhou Qingfang and Ren Xiaoyao swept the area with their divine consciousness, monitoring everything.
They saw many martial artists fighting brutally over silver, guards rebelling to seize Feng family property, and couples flying their separate ways when disaster struck.
Zhou Qingfang sighed inwardly, "No matter how prosperous a family is, if the top pillar of strength collapses, even if there are many family disciples, the tree will fall and the monkeys scatter in an instant."
"I wonder if my Zhou family will be like this one day?"
Xu Mingyuan smiled lightly. "Senior, why worry about future matters? It's sufficient to do everything well in the present. Moreover, your Zhou family acts prudently and doesn't casually provoke outside enemies.
You will certainly be able to pass down through generations."
"Pass down through generations? I think your Xu family has more hope." Zhou Qingfang smiled slightly, looking at Xu Mingyuan.
Many families in Guangling Commandery noticed the Feng family's situation and sent people to investigate.
"Is the Feng family collapsing? Why are all the clan members running out?"
"Indeed, this is too sudden."
"Who are these arrivals?"
Some wanted to get closer to investigate. Xu Mingyuan said, "Today, the Feng family brought about their own destruction by attacking my Yuehu Commandery without cause.
This place now belongs to Yuehu Commandery's Zhou family and Xu family. Fellow Daoists, if you approach any closer, you will be enemies of our two families.
Don't blame us for not showing mercy!
When we reopen the mountain gate, we will naturally invite all Fellow Daoists to come."
Some hesitated whether to leave, but then Ren Xiaoyao's Foundation Establishment pressure suddenly spread out, making their shoulders sink heavily.
Only then did they leave without looking back, one after another.
They then quickly reported this matter to their own families.
Many Qi Refining families had previously pledged allegiance to the Feng family. Now that the Feng family was destroyed, they were somewhat anxious, not knowing how to choose.
Should they lean toward the newcomers, or submit to the Wei family?
Before long, suddenly dozens of cultivators came flying on swords. Leading them were two Foundation Establishment cultivators standing in the void.
One had graying hair, the other appeared middle-aged.
They were none other than the Wei family ancestor and Wei Changkong!