Chapter Nine: Sudden Murderous Intent

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Stepping into the barrier, Fuyao’s eyes swept over the surroundings—the clearing deep within the forest was empty, yet atop the high platform, more than a dozen massive torches blazed. Several figures stood above, looking down. Among them was a lithe and enchanting woman, Chun Niang.

“Be careful,” Ali whispered anxiously, gazing worriedly at Fuyao’s youthful face, a sinister premonition rising in her heart.

Two people slowly ascended the platform’s steps from its base. Though Fuyao kept telling herself there was nothing to fear, sweat had already drenched the palms of her hands without her noticing. Each step forward was fraught with uncertainty. At that moment, anxiety and anger became tangible, assaulting her nerves relentlessly until her spirit and body turned numb.

Finally, she and Ali reached the platform. Almost instantly, from outside the barrier, countless leaders, chiefs, and their followers of various races entered. Amid the chaotic footsteps, the grim-faced Letu, who had been standing silently to the side, raised his hand. Suddenly, a small insect with round, yellow wings flew from his palm, reaching the top of the barrier, where it spun silk to anchor its plump body firmly to the barrier.

A gentle glow flickered back and forth along the fine yet resilient silk threads. The insect’s body swelled, and from its nearly transparent abdomen shot forth a bright yellow light that spread in all directions. In an instant, the vast barrier became brilliantly illuminated.

“Grandfather!” Almost simultaneously, Fuyao’s gaze fell upon the ground before her. There appeared a cocoon-shaped barrier, inside which lay an unconscious elder. Towering and broad-shouldered even lying down, he measured nearly two meters tall. Bound tightly with colorful ropes, his once soft white cotton robe was stained with blood and riddled with holes. His hair was disheveled; his eyes tightly shut—clearly gravely injured.

Upon seeing this figure, Fuyao immediately shouted and rushed forward. Chun Niang smiled coldly, refusing to stop her, standing aside with a sinister gleam in her beautiful eyes.

“Letu, what is the reason for summoning us here at this late hour?” A tall, imposing bald man with a silver beard and sideburns entered the barrier, flanked by a dozen followers. He strode onto the platform, stroking his beard. His eyes scanned the elder Tianmu and Fuyao, and his expression turned grim. “There is still no solid evidence that A’Yao is a traitor, but what does that have to do with Tianmu? What do you call this, treating him like this?”

Upon seeing the sculpted clan chief Feiyu arrive, the leopard clan chief Hengbiao, who had always been close to Tianmu, spoke indignantly: “Letu, it’s too reckless to act like this just to prop up that little Chun Niang. Why go to such lengths? None of us are fools; many things are clear. Everything should have limits!”

Letu and Chun Niang exchanged glances and smiled faintly. “My elder brothers, you are all senior elders of the Wilderness, but when did Sister Hongshuang arrive?”

Hearing Hongshuang’s name, Feiyu and Hengbiao exchanged looks, thinking: “If you’ve brought out our chief, you must have secured her cooperation. Why invite us just to fill seats?” Hengbiao snorted, about to speak, but a beautiful woman in colorful clothes quietly ascended the platform. Both Feiyu and Hengbiao fell silent, bowing respectfully in unison. “Lady Hongshuang!” They flicked their sleeves disdainfully at Letu, no longer daring to speak, clearly wary of the chief Hongshuang.

“Lady Hongshuang…” Chun Niang’s smile faded as she met Hongshuang’s cold indifference, growing awkward and stiff. She could only watch as Hongshuang walked past her without a glance, smiling at Letu as she passed.

* * * * * * *

Soon, the chiefs, elders, and clan leaders of the major territories assembled. Most were puzzled by the sudden overnight meeting, whispering among themselves to gather news. Some seized the opportunity to inquire about the status of the Nisu treasure and the whereabouts of the mysterious outsiders who had appeared and vanished.

At that moment, a blue light shot up outside the barrier. Amid flickering shadows, Zi Sheng entered calmly.

Seeing him, Letu’s eyes brightened, and a faint, barely perceptible smile played on his lips.

“Everyone, quiet!” This time, the speaker was none other than Hongshuang, the supreme leader of the fierce beast tribes of the Wilderness, overseeing all such tribes in the demon realm. Accompanying her on the platform were the great chiefs of the Beast-Taming Wu Huan tribe, the Flower Spirit Piao Xiang tribe, and other powerful clans. Even the usually solitary great demon spirits, including Bi Yuan, were present.

The presence of so many heavyweight figures instantly made the crowd feel the gravity of this meeting.

Though Hongshuang looked only about twenty, she was a five-thousand-year-old blood-sucking rainbow spider, ruthless and violent, managing the fierce beast tribes with an iron fist. The elder council and clan leaders under her command in the Wilderness were completely subordinate, effectively powerless in opposing her.

Over the years, she had single-handedly maintained order and prosperity in the tribes. Recently, however, Hongshuang had changed markedly, softening her previously overbearing style to become more approachable. She had also worked to mend past discord caused by intertribal conflicts, fostering goodwill among tribes. She treated her subordinates with genuine affection, enforcing strict laws but leading by example, balancing reward and punishment. This earned her soaring prestige in the demon realm.

“Today, we have gathered because several major changes have occurred in the demon realm. The first is…” Hongshuang’s gaze swept the crowd calmly, then she paused before emphasizing each word: “Our leader, Lord Julan, has gone missing!”

An uproar immediately broke out.

For years, Julan had been the spiritual leader of the demon realm, commanding great respect. Under his guidance, the tribes coexisted peacefully. Yet, since the Four Realms War, he had secluded himself, and no news had come from him for a long time.

Hearing Hongshuang’s sudden revelation, Bi Yuan, who had been standing idly aside, lost his composure, about to speak, but Letu stopped him: “Big Sister Bi Yuan, please calm down. Wait until Lady Hongshuang finishes.”

Bi Yuan, disregarding Letu, shrugged off his restraint: “Why should I listen to her rambling? Everyone knows my brother has been in seclusion; why bring this up now? Isn’t this about publicly trying some traitors?”

Hongshuang showed genuine concern but ignored Bi Yuan’s face, continuing: “After the Nisu treasure opened, strange phenomena occurred, and outsiders suddenly intervened. Our major tribes went together to the Cloud Summit to seek Lord Julan’s guidance, but found only emptiness. We then checked his other residences and questioned those close to him thoroughly, but found no trace. Meanwhile, the traitor Fuyao colluded with powerful figures from the Underworld, Immortals, Demons, and even the human realm, causing chaos to overturn our peace. We are certain Lord Julan was harmed by Fuyao and the external enemies, which explains his absence to prevent this! Facing internal rebellion and external threats, the survival of the demon realm is now dire. Hence, we decided to convene this emergency meeting with the four great elders and clan chiefs to discuss our strategy!”

Her words stirred the crowd, many unaware of the full situation, into passionate uproar. Even Bi Yuan and Fuyao were stunned. Yet, Zi Sheng watched quietly with thoughtful blue eyes, glancing at the uneasy Julan behind Hongshuang. People instinctively kept their distance from him.

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As murmurs grew, Letu suddenly stepped forward to stand beside Hongshuang. “Today, the four great elders have also arrived at our tribe. Let us hear their opinions!” He smiled faintly on his pale face, bowing politely—“Please, four great elders!”

* * * * * * *

“Where are we going?” Chiyang and Huangsha, transformed into butterfly-winged water beasts, flew side by side, soon becoming breathless. She had hoped to wait for Liejun and Lanpo before moving, but Huangsha, tears streaming, urged haste, saying Yasha’s injuries were severe and departure was urgent. Knowing Huangsha’s loyalty to Yasha and his urgency, Chiyang agreed.

Though she worried about Shijun, Yasha had come for her, and she could not remain indifferent to any danger he faced. Fortunately, Shijun still had Lanpo, Zi Sheng, and Liejun searching for him. After careful thought, Chiyang decided to inform the sentries, Zi Sheng and company, before setting off with Huangsha.

Reaching the designated large stone, however, she found no sign of Zi Sheng, Fuyao, or Ali. Guessing they were patrolling, she left a bundle of silk ribbons and sent a message to Lanpo using the Underworld’s secret code, then set out with Huangsha.

As they prepared to depart, several demon realm figures suddenly attacked from the shadows without warning.

Though Chiyang and Huangsha easily handled these minor foes, upon hearing that these attackers had followed them to prevent their message from spreading, Chiyang grew anxious and quickly set off with Huangsha.

The journey was long, crossing nearly the entire central region, until dawn broke at the foot of the Desire Mountains, Huangsha’s destination.

Nestled in the demon realm’s southernmost reaches, the Desire Mountains had a mild climate, fresh air, and were covered with crimson Crane-Song grass—a peaceful tribe that rarely involved itself in demon realm conflicts.

The mountainous ring enclosed a resting meadow composed of Crane-Song grass, sapphire-blue Jump Orchid grass, and white Windling flowers.

Nearby flowed a vast lake spanning thousands of kilometers, its fine sand resembling a pale gray ribbon dividing the emerald water from the colorful meadow, appearing like a grand green jewel set beside a clear blue crystal—an enchanting sight.

From above, countless cranes of various species soared above the water or rested on the meadow, coexisting harmoniously without conflict.

Chiyang, having never before entered the demon realm, found it puzzling that the Underworld would establish a base in such a remote place. Only upon seeing that her two uninvited companions’ reckless intrusion attracted no notice did she understand the true reason for the choice.

Walking through knee-high dense Crane-Song grass, transformed into clumsy butterfly-winged water beasts, Chiyang and Huangsha moved unhurriedly toward their goal.

* * * * * * *

This was a transparent barrier invisible to the naked eye. From outside, everything seemed normal, but stepping inside severed all connection with the outside world. Before entering, the cautious Chiyang glanced at Huangsha, noticing sweat beading on his forehead and a nervous, fearful expression.

“Commander Chiyang, shall we go in?” Huangsha wiped his brow, forcing a casual smile. “It’s been quite a long journey.”

On the way, Huangsha had explained the situation: after he and Shijun lost contact, he searched fruitlessly and guessed the Underworld Captain might have gone alone to Desire Mountain, so he followed. Yasha and Houtu had arrived earlier but found no sign of Qingyan or Xuanshi.

The group had debated: Houtu and Huangsha advocated waiting for Qingyan and Xuanshi to arrive before searching together, since Shijun had come to the demon realm precisely for this purpose, hoping to meet up. Yasha insisted on finding Shijun first, reasoning that Shijun’s token was crucial. Given their covert infiltration, once hostilities started, four hands could overpower two fists—even the two great Underworld Captains and four great Underworld Generals could not defeat the entire demon realm.

Just then, Qingyan and Xuanshi arrived, followed by the four great elders of the demon realm. Without discussion, they attacked immediately. Houtu ambushed Yasha from behind. Seeing the danger, Yasha ordered Huangsha to retreat and report. Huangsha’s last sight was the four great elders wounding Yasha…

Fleeing Desire Mountain in panic, Huangsha was at a loss where to find Chiyang and Shijun until hearing of an enemy attack in the Chaos Stone Mountains near the Butterfly Bone Dragon’s lair. He hurried there and unexpectedly met Chiyang.

Chiyang’s mind raced. She had sensed something suspicious all along: why had Qingyan and the others attacked Yasha? What were their motives? Why had the four great elders appeared? What was their relation to the Underworld?

Qingyan, Houtu, Huangsha, and Xuanshi were Yasha’s four generals. Though Houtu and Xuanshi were promoted from lower Underworld ranks and had decent conduct, they lacked deep bonds with Yasha. Qingyan and Huangsha, however, had followed Yasha loyally since enlistment. The chance all four would betray simultaneously was slim. Chiyang pondered but could not make sense of it.

“Hmm. No rush,” Chiyang said calmly, seeing Huangsha’s anxiety. “Better to survey the surroundings first. If emergency arises, we won’t be caught off guard.”

Huangsha nodded distractedly, glancing repeatedly toward the barrier.

Seeing this, Chiyang understood the truth and smirked inwardly, asking lightly, “Qingyan and the others must be anxious, right?”

Huangsha was caught off guard, answering without thought, “Yes…” His pale face flushed red, eyes wide with dread, then he composed himself, even showing some anger. “What do you mean by that, Commander Chiyang?” Yet his trembling voice betrayed his panic.

Chiyang smiled slightly, narrowing her eyes to gaze deeply at Huangsha.

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Unable to endure Chiyang’s all-seeing gaze, Huangsha turned away awkwardly and snapped, “I can’t believe you don’t trust me, Commander. Fine, I’ll go in alone!” With that, he made to leave.

Chiyang stood motionless, back turned to Huangsha, lifting her head to watch the dawn sky in the east.

Two silver-blue cranes fluttered past them, chirping softly. Their beautiful wings elegantly arced midair before soaring toward the lakeside.

Huangsha halted outside the barrier, then turned to find Chiyang showing no intention of following. Knowing his secret was uncovered, he gritted his teeth and signaled inside. Suddenly, two grey shadows lunged out to join him, forming a triangular blockade to cut off Chiyang’s retreat. Six palms struck at her with overwhelming force in a move known as “Cold Frost Shakes the Earth.”

* * * * * * *

Shijun sat on a large stone by the lake, now completely calm. Under moonlight, they found the marks left by Zi Sheng and Chiyang. Especially after hearing Lanpo’s interpretation of Chiyang’s messages, his heart eased. His once stiff face brightened slightly as he nodded to Liejun: “Uncle, it seems Fuyao got into trouble. Otherwise, Brother Zi Sheng wouldn’t have left so hastily. The same goes for A’Yang. Since they left separate signals, they probably don’t know what’s happened to each other. That means they are in different places: A’Yang went to Desire Mountain, while Brother Zi Sheng headed northwest, the territory of Letu’s Lion Trumpet tribe—tree demons likely near the Weeping Tree Forest.”

Unconsciously, Shijun had begun calling Chiyang “A’Yang,” a shift so natural he barely noticed.

Shijun analyzed calmly while Liejun observed, feeling immense relief. He thought maybe Shijun’s earlier runaway wasn’t so bad after all—without repeated trials, how could one grow? Perhaps it was right to let this kid train in danger, so he could build capital for crises ahead… Yet Liejun sensed a lurking great peril. Shijun’s origins were too extraordinary; the journey ahead would doubtless be fraught with hardship.

Hearing half of Shijun’s plan, Liejun decided firmly, “Then we split up. I’ll go to Desire Mountain to find A’Yang; you take Lanpo to Nisu Forest. Fuyao and the others are in a place teeming with demons and humans. With Lanpo, your chances improve.”

Shijun was surprised Liejun volunteered to seek A’Yang, suspecting it was because of him. Hesitating briefly, he heard Liejun’s impatient command: “Don’t hesitate! Aren’t you worried about their safety? If it weren’t urgent, why would they leave so suddenly? Let’s arrange a meeting point and contingency plans, then act separately.”

After discussion, they agreed to meet at Jiamu Pass. If either faced danger, they would signal with the spiritual fire bombs Liejun carried.

Wasting no time, uncle and nephew parted—Liejun heading south, Shijun with Lanpo flying northwest.

* * * * * * *

This time, Shijun had learned his lesson. He still shuddered recalling the butterfly-winged water beast transformation. Suddenly he chuckled proudly.

With a swirl of wind, Shijun transformed into Bi Yuan, dressed in red and white. He looked down at himself, then pretended to glare, whispering, “I am the madwoman Bi Yuan. How about that? Meet the unstoppable goddess who kills gods!”

Since his rebirth, Shijun had mastered the basic skills and spells of all realms; such transformations were trivial.

Lanpo and the others, curious at his sudden change into an elderly white-haired woman, gathered around, chattering: “Sir, why become like this?”

“I say, it looks good!”

“Ugly! How can you transform into a woman, sir?”

Shijun’s nose almost twisted in anger: “You little brats, how dare you favor males over females! Why can’t I become a woman? All of you, into my treasure pouch!”

Under moonlight, Shijun sped toward the Nisu Forest. Along the way, night creatures and small demons hastened to avoid him, much to his delight. This trick worked well—who would dare provoke the madwoman Bi Yuan?

Soon, Shijun arrived at the forest’s edge. By now, Nisu’s demonic power had merged with his body, and his human aura was faint. The guards at the entrance noticed nothing unusual, though puzzled why the notorious madwoman had just entered and reappeared so quickly. They dared not interfere and stepped aside.

Unbeknownst to Shijun, the real “madwoman” was already inside the barrier, smiling faintly and striding boldly along the main road, ignoring the guards.

The dark path ahead was brightly lit by the glowing barrier. Though still some distance away, Shijun faintly heard sounds of combat within, growing anxious and quickening his pace.

Suddenly, a clang rang out as dozens of black shadows leapt forth. A soft, sinister voice chuckled mockingly: “Underworld Captain here! I am the Death Soul’s right hand, Golden Eagle, and the Yellow Wolf, sent by Lady Hongshuang to await you!”