Prologue, fierce battle

Haha, unable to cast the Thunderbolt Spell, are you trying to use the "Nine Sounds of Thunder" instead? Of course, Sikong Wufang recognizes this item. Due to Jing Leng's cultivation method belonging to the metal element, all the magical treasures around him, as well as the immortal techniques he is familiar with, are related to thunder. This "Nine Sounds Demon Subduing Bell" is indeed one of his three treasured artifacts.

"Do not be reckless!" The Daoist at the forefront raised his right hand, and the long sword in his hand floated in mid-air. Instantly, several azure sword blades materialized around the sword body. With a wave of his hand, they surged towards Sikong Wufang. The corner of Sikong Wufang's mouth remained slightly raised, his unparalleled arrogance undiminished in the slightest. "The Nine Mysterious Sword Technique? Is your cultivation limited to this?" After saying this, he waved his hand, and a rotating Five Elements Golden Wheel suddenly appeared in the void. The incoming sword light turned to nothingness the moment it encountered the golden wheel, and the bright long sword was also rebounded back into his hand. The corner of Sikong Wufang's mouth remained slightly raised, his unparalleled arrogance undiminished in the slightest. "The Nine Mysterious Sword Technique? Is your cultivation limited to this?" After saying this, he waved his hand, and a rotating Five Elements Golden Wheel suddenly appeared in the void. The incoming sword light turned to nothingness the moment it encountered the golden wheel, and the bright long sword was also rebounded back into his hand.

In an instant, the thunder from all directions and above had already descended directly, leaving no possibility for evasion

Do not be too overbearing! exclaimed the slightly plump Taoist priest.

"Not good! This sword truly..." Jing's cold expression slightly changed.

Before long, the man on horseback turned his head to glance back, a trace of malicious anger flickering at the corner of his mouth, and he shouted, "Three bull-nosed fools, stop chasing! No matter how much effort you put in, in the end, it will only be a futile endeavor!"

Since ancient times, the vast land of China has seen a continuous emergence of practitioners and sects of Taoism. However, nearly all adhere to the ironclad principle of "refining essence into qi, transforming qi into spirit, refining spirit back to emptiness, and merging emptiness with the Dao." These sixteen characters are further divided into twelve stages: "foundation building, enlightenment, merging qi, transforming qi, condensing qi, transforming spirit, condensing spirit, returning to the source, earthly tribulation, totality, heavenly tribulation, and ascension." Practitioners often refer to foundation building as "one hundred days of solid foundation" and the stage from enlightenment to merging qi as "ten months of gestation." Achieving the "merging qi" stage is merely the beginning of one's journey in Taoist arts, highlighting that the path of cultivation is by no means a one-day endeavor, and the hardships involved are beyond imagination. Among the entire expanse of China, those who can reach the realm of transforming spirit are undoubtedly exceptional individuals.

"Cultivation emphasizes a calm and tranquil mind. I truly do not understand how you, old bull's nose, have managed to reach the realm of transformation. Be careful not to fall into demonic deviation!" Sikong Wufang laughed heartily

The other two Daoists exchanged glances and nodded. Immediately, the three of them soared into the air simultaneously. In mid-air, a faint glow flickered intermittently, revealing ancient characters from the time of Cangjie. As the characters flowed, the enormous Fuxi Bagua - Tu - Shu hexagram array radiated dazzling light, slowly rotating. Sword shadows circulated in all directions of the Bagua, as if guarding a spirit with unwavering resolve. The three Daoists gradually settled down, enclosing Sikong Wufa, who was at the edge of the cliff on the ground, within their formation. As they formed seals and chanted incantations, the sword lights in their hands flickered simultaneously, and the Bagua wheel gradually descended. The enormous Fuxi Bagua - Tu - Shu hexagram array radiated dazzling light, slowly rotating, with sword shadows circulating in all directions, as if guarding a spirit with unwavering resolve. The three Daoists gradually settled down, enclosing Sikong Wufa, who was at the edge of the cliff on the ground, within their formation. As they formed seals and chanted incantations, the sword lights in their hands flickered simultaneously, and the Bagua wheel gradually descended.

"Utter nonsense!" exclaimed the Mirror Bright Daoist, "With death looming, you still dare to argue! Hand over the Demon Sword of Destruction at once, and we may spare your life!"

A shadow of clouds swept across Jing Ming's forehead, and he understood very well that Sikong Wufang's words were not mere bluster. The power of Huishang had been sealed within the Jiuxuan Palace's Fumo Valley for many years, and much of its strength had already fallen into slumber. However, if this entanglement continued, Huishang's power would inevitably awaken continuously during the battle, and this sword would become increasingly stronger. In contrast, the three Daoists would have long been at the end of their strength, and there would be no possibility of resisting the demonic power of the fierce and evil sword.

A soft murmur, like the song of a long sword, tears through the dry, cold west wind, and the arid dust swirls upward, as Sikong Wufang unexpectedly casts the remnants of destruction into the depths of the valley

"Disciple, do not be afraid! Steady your stance! Do not act recklessly!" Jing Ming said, "Although this demonic sword is fierce and malevolent, it has not yet unleashed its true power. By combining the techniques of the three of us, we will surely be able to suppress it."

"It must be that you are taking advantage of the usual favor that the Master shows you to launch a sneak attack on him!" Jingguang said, "Senior brothers, form the sword formation and engage this wicked disciple in a fight to the death!"

What are you doing!" Jingguang's expression changed slightly as he shouted.

"Shut your mouth!" shouted another slightly plump Taoist with a fierce expression, "How could my Nine Xuan Palace have a traitor like you? If anything were to happen to the sect leader, I will ensure that you are torn to pieces!"

What do you mean?" Jing Lengxin's heart stirred slightly as she inquired

"Good! You are very good!" Jing Ming said with a mournful voice, "You actually sacrificed the demon sword for survival. Do you know the cost of such a blood sacrifice?"

Is it not you who are despicable? Sikong Wufang said, "Draped in the guise of hypocrisy, you speak of doctrines and principles, yet in reality, you are filled with insatiable desires and endless cravings! If you truly lacked the heart to possess and destroy, how could you harbor thoughts of killing? If this action indeed incites a storm of blood and carnage, then it will serve to cleanse the scum from the Divine Land!"

Sikong Wufang, seated upon his horse, slightly raised his head, his proud demeanor resembling that of an eagle atop a solitary peak, and said: "How laughable. On what basis do you assert with such certainty that I injured the sect leader? Which of your eyes witnessed it?"

"I do not wish to be a malevolent figure, yet I cannot help but feel compassion for the horse beneath me." Three Taoist priests had already descended before Sikong Wufang, holding their long swords in hand, assuming a stance ready for battle, with only about ten feet separating the two sides.

Sikong Wufang said: "There is no need for that. It is merely that these four thousand paper cranes will appear on the desks of the leaders of the four major sects of the Divine Land within half a day, informing them that the ancient divine weapon and the demon sword of destruction are located at the bottom of Hongmeng Valley"

With a cold snort, Sikong Wufang suddenly made an unexpected move—he raised his hand.

"With you? Suppressing this sword?" Sikong Wufang said with a smile. He then freed his left hand, spreading his five fingers, and the formless transformation golden wheel in his hand began to spin once more

Do not engage in a war of words with him!" The Taoist, who had remained silent until now, stood behind the other two, gently stroking his beard. At this moment, he finally spoke, his tone very calm and his expression unperturbed. Among the three, it was evident that he was the most composed.

The mist surrounding the demonic sword of destruction suddenly transformed into a faint purplish-red hue, becoming even more eerie and mysterious. In an instant, the demonic sword emitted a powerful rhythm, with rippling black light expanding in a circular manner, surging outward in all directions

"Look where you're running!" The slightly plump Daoist unfurled his robe, gestured with his fingers while chanting a spell. As his lips moved, a faint glimmer emerged from the dust whisk. Suddenly, he pointed to the sky, and with a tearing explosion, a sharp beam of light fell from above. It struck right beside Sikong Wufang and his mount, which had just come to a halt, causing the startled steed to neigh and stumble.

When the three stood firm once again, the lightning, the Fuxi Bagua wheel, and the sword shadows had completely dissipated. Only Sikong Wufang remained, standing straight without a trace of defeat. From his palm, dark purple blood dripped down onto the ground, rising in a strange green smoke.

"I pity you all." Sikong Wufang faced the three individuals without any fear, his arrogant tone making it difficult for others to look him in the eye

You despicable person!" Jing Ming could not help but exclaim

"Linghe Chuan Yin? What are you doing? Are you calling for reinforcements?" Jing Leng exclaimed in surprise

Blood Sacrifice to the Demon Sword!" Jing Ming shouted in alarm.

Sikong Wufang hurriedly dismounted, and the horse stumbled, its hind hooves missing the ground, crashing down the cliff with a thunderous sound

"Want the sword? Come and take it yourself!" Sikong Wufang unsheathed the sword from behind him, holding it in one hand, and said in a show of defiance.

A sharp whinny echoed as a cloud of dust was kicked up by the pounding hooves of the horse. Sikong Wufang had already seized the reins, tightening them around the horse's neck. Before him lay a steep cliff.

You cannot escape! Jing Leng swung the sword in his hand to the side, his movement almost identical to that of the other two. The speed of the Bagua wheel's descent was increasing rapidly

"With the combined strength of the three of us, we need not fear your treasures!" Jing coldly shouted, beads of sweat already dripping from his temples

At this moment, Sikong Wufang took out the "Destruction's Grief" from the sword box.

You are already a monstrous being and a great enemy of the world; we will never allow you to leave this place!" Jingguang once again assumed a stance ready for battle

The Nine Mysterious Palaces have declined to such an extent that even the Thunder Curse can only be used to drive away horses. Do you think it is pitiable?" Sikong Wufang burst into laughter, his laughter echoing amidst the clouds.

Disciple, since he seeks death, why not let him die a swift death? With this thought, Jing Ming coldly spoke to the mirror.

Above Sikong Wufang's head, on the vast Fuxi Bagua Wheel formed by the Nine Mysterious Heavenly Net Formation, countless sword shadows swayed precariously. Once the Bagua Wheel successfully enveloped Sikong Wufang, these myriad remnants of light would immediately descend, potentially obliterating him entirely. It is important to note that he was facing three Daoists at the Transformation Stage.

At this moment, the three "Transformation Stage" Daoists surrounding Sikong Wufang showed no intention of holding back whatsoever

"Do you really think I would be foolish enough to continue fighting with you?" said Sikong Wufang

"Nine Profound Heavenly Net Formation? You truly overestimate me by using such a formation to capture me!" Sikong Wufang said with a smile.

What do I not know? Blood sacrifice to the demon sword, and one becomes a sword servant, forever a slave to the demon sword, obeying the sword master; as long as the sword exists, so do I, and if the sword is destroyed, I perish. Sikong Wufang still wore a smile on his face as he said, "Since the so-called righteous path cannot accommodate me, what harm is there in becoming a demonic sword servant? It is far more enjoyable than sitting idly on that boring mountain all day, pondering life!"

Oh! Jing Ming hurriedly rolled over and retreated, the fierce black energy almost grazed his chest as it swept past. At the same time, Jing Leng and Jing Guang had no choice but to abandon the formation and leap into the air.

Hmph! I advise you not to waste your efforts! A hint of triumph appeared on Jing's cold face, but at this moment, he was already panting and drenched in sweat

Oh! Sikong Wufang pushed the formless transformation golden wheel in his hand upward, and the golden wheel soared up, striking the center of the Nine Xuan Heavenly Net Formation. The Nine Xuan Heavenly Net Formation trembled slightly, but evidently, the power of the golden wheel was insufficient to break the formation.

Behind the man, merely a few zhang away, a wisp of smoke and dust dissipated, revealing three long-bearded elders dressed in Daoist robes, each wielding a whisk. They were not riding horses, yet the long swords beneath their feet seemed to move even faster than steeds. Each of them wore a solemn expression, their bodies remaining steadfast on the sword blades, as stable as Mount Tai

Jing Leng paid no attention, letting out a light laugh. As her dual pupils focused, the Nine Sound Demon Suppression Bell soared into the air, surrounded by a thick cloud that enveloped the center of the bell. Suddenly, nine distinct booming sounds echoed, as nine bolts of thunder struck from nine different directions: east, west, south, north, southeast, southwest, and directly above the head of Sikong Wufang.

Jing Leng nodded slightly, and with a gentle sweep of the dust brush in the air, an ancient bell rose into the air. The bell appeared unremarkable, yet a faint light flickered at its center

There is no need to say much to him!" The elder, who was at the forefront, waved his hand and said, "Such scoundrels should be punished by all!

Chilly autumn, the west wind swirling, exceptionally dry and cold

Hehe... At that moment of astonishment and hesitation from the three Daoists, four origami cranes that had long been folded flew out from Sikong Wufang's left hand

The three Taoists were momentarily taken aback

The weapon is entirely black, with a blade that bears no engravings, merely sharp in its simplicity. This simplicity and sharpness are even more chilling—thin as a sheet of paper, slender as a reed, appearing to sway with the wind, yet in reality, it is ferociously powerful, capable of breaking through anything and shattering all obstacles

With a decisive gesture, Sikong Wufang pointed the broken sword towards the sky. Instantly, a stream of pitch-black light surged upward from the hilt of the sword he held. As the sword shattered, it collided precisely with the descending Heavenly Net Formation's Eight Trigrams Wheel. The black light spread outward from the center of the formation like ink spilled on the ground.

"Clear Mirror, Cold Mirror, Bright Mirror." Sikong Wufang spread his hands and said, "It is truly unfortunate that you elders of the Mirror lineage have lived for so many years under this ironic title. A clear mirror is the most discerning object in the world, yet you are blinded and make subjective assumptions! If I were not wronged, I would never have come to this point today"

Sikong Wufang stared intently at the shadow that grew smaller and smaller, watching it disappear among the clouds at the edge of the cliff. The muscles on his face twitched slightly, and on his handsome yet somewhat sinister face, his knife-like thin lips parted and closed: "How pitiful, truly pitiful"

"Use your pig brains to think carefully! How could my strength possibly harm my master! If I can defeat him, killing the three of you would be a piece of cake; why would I need to show mercy!" He shouted angrily at the Librarian, Siku Wufang.

"Just right." Sikong Wufang seemed to completely disregard everything, leisurely taking down the sword case from his back, and said, "Let me see which is stronger, this demon sword of destruction or the Heavenly Net Formation!"

A swift horse, resembling a flash of lightning, galloped rapidly from north to south. The man on the horse was dressed in a fitted black outfit, holding the reins in one hand while protecting a long and wide sword sheath behind him with the other. The sword sheath appeared quite heavy, yet there was not a trace of fatigue on the man's face.

Be cautious, two senior brothers. When the demon sword is unleashed, the heavens and the earth will change color. Even if he lacks the ability to wield this sword, he should not be underestimated, " Jingguang reminded.

In the moment when the Ruins of Mourning emerged from its sheath, a wailing cry surged forth from the sword's body, resembling a chilling lament that could rend one's heart and soul. Surrounding the Ruins of Mourning was a burning haze of dark, murky gas, further enhancing the sense of mystery and eeriness.

"You speak nonsense," said the calm and composed Jingguang Daoist. "You are fully aware that the Master has been injured by you and is unconscious, yet you dare to say such a thing, do you not?"

This move leaves Sikong Wufang with no way out, seemingly vowing to turn this "traitor of the sect" into dust.

The power of the Destroying Sword surged upward continuously; nevertheless, the Nine Profound Heavenly Net Formation continued to press down relentlessly. Sikong Wufang's feet were already deeply embedded in the hard, dry sand.

Sikong Wufang suddenly reached out and grasped the shattered blade, and a surge of black-red blood immediately splattered out

After speaking, he stepped back step by step towards the edge of the cliff, ignoring any words from the three Taoist priests

Sikong Wufang held the ruins in one hand, standing proudly among the three, and laughed arrogantly: "Fatty, stop wasting words. I advise you three to quickly take out all the treasures on you, otherwise, if this stalemate continues, it will surely be unfavorable for you all"

"The sword exists with the person; when the sword is destroyed, the person perishes. A sword that enters a deep valley may not necessarily be damaged, thus, I may not necessarily die!" With that, he leaped into the unfathomable abyss.

"Why steal?" Sikong Wufang said with a cold laugh, "This item was personally given to me by the Daoist of Supreme Clarity. If you do not believe me, you may inquire with him."

The elder at the forefront spoke with resentment, saying: "Sikong Wufang, you rebellious and unrepentant wretch! We have repeatedly shown you forbearance and tolerance, yet you have taken advantage of our kindness. Not only have you injured the sect leader, but you have also stolen the sect's secret treasures. Your actions are truly outrageous! I advise you to surrender quickly!"

"The Method of Non-Form Transformation, the Golden Wheel? ! '' The Slightly Plump Daoist shouted almost in a roar, 'You actually stole this item?!'