Chapter 102: Protector Wu!
Yun Lan Sect, back mountain!
Yun Yun stood respectfully at the entrance of a cave and said softly, "Teacher, your disciple Yun Yun requests an audience!"
A long while later, a vast, majestic aura—like a giant dragon awakening from ancient times—flashed momentarily. A soul power swept across the entire Yun Lan Sect, followed by a calm voice drifting out.
"So it's Yun'er! Come in!"
Having received Yun Shan's permission, Yun Yun walked into the cave. At a single glance, she saw Yun Shan sitting cross-legged there, not a trace of aura emanating from him. That aura which had just flashed seemed as if an illusion.
"Yun'er is already a three-star Dou Huang. Not bad, not bad. You've come today—has something happened with the Yun Lan Sect?"
Looking at his disciple's strength, a trace of satisfaction flickered in Yun Shan's eyes. This disciple, whom he had raised from childhood, possessed talent even surpassing his own back then. She would certainly reach his level in the future, perhaps even the level of the founding Sect Leader—who could say for sure!
The Yun Lan Sect had a worthy successor!
"Teacher, nothing has occurred with the Yun Lan Sect. It's just that these past few days, an alchemist came to the Imperial Capital..."
Facing Yun Shan's inquiry, Yun Yun quietly recounted everything that had transpired during this period. After finishing, she looked at the contemplative Yun Shan and stood respectfully to the side, awaiting his decision.
"A seventh-tier alchemist!"
A long while later, Yun Shan came back to his senses, somewhat ruefully. If only it had been a bit earlier! But now, it was already too late!
"You handled it well. As for the missed pill, missed it was. In a few days, your teacher will emerge from seclusion. We will decide then!"
After speaking, Yun Shan immediately closed his eyes again. Seeing this, even though Yun Yun still had words to say, she had no choice but to bow and take her leave.
After Yun Yun left, suddenly, within the cave, a wisp of black smoke eerily drifted in. In the pitch-black cave, two clusters of crimson light abruptly lit up.
"Jie jie jie, Yun Shan, this disciple of yours is quite a fine seedling!"
"I advise the Protector to abandon that dangerous notion!" Abruptly, Yun Shan fiercely opened his eyes. His sharp gaze swept toward the other, his entire body radiating a bone-chilling, icy aura.
"Heh!"
With a strange laugh, Protector Wu did not further provoke him. In his view, Yun Shan was nothing but a hypocrite. Quite a few elders under his sect had already secretly joined the Soul Hall. What difference would one more disciple make?
This Yun Lan Sect would sooner or later become a branch hall of my Soul Hall within the Jia Ma Empire!
"That seventh-tier alchemist who suddenly appeared... interests me greatly."
Hearing Protector Wu's words, Yun Shan frowned and said somewhat hesitantly, "A seventh-tier alchemist is not easy to deal with. Moreover, there are several companions of unclear strength by his side!"
"Jie jie jie, this seat is naturally aware. You only need to secretly tie up his helpers. When the time comes, this seat will make a move myself!" Protector Wu laughed eerily.
"...Very well." Yun Shan hesitated slightly but quickly agreed. Between him and Protector Wu, it was a cooperative relationship. Agreeing to some requests was no great matter. It just so happened that since his breakthrough, he hadn't yet made a move.
The Yun Lan Sect, the most powerful force in the Jia Ma Empire. If not for the sect rule forbidding the seizure of imperial authority, the imperial family of the Jia Ma Empire would likely have long since changed its name.
Precisely because of the Yun Lan Sect's existence—a power transcending the imperial family's control—every generation of the Jia Ma Imperial Family kept a wary eye on them. The battle-hardened elite army corps stationed at the foot of Yun Lan Mountain was proof of that.
The Imperial Family had stationed an army corps here for many years; its purpose was clear to practically anyone—they were guarding against the Yun Lan Sect...
Toward the Imperial Family's posture, the high-level members of both sides had little reaction, tacitly accepting it in their hearts. However, on ordinary days, hot-tempered Yun Lan Sect disciples occasionally went to the military camp to stir up trouble.
So, this place was usually quite lively!
However, today, both the military camp and the Yun Lan Sect were exceptionally quiet. All the sect's disciples had gathered at the enormous square before the main gate.
The square was paved entirely with uniform giant stones, appearing ancient and grand. In the very center of the square, a massive stone tablet stood loftily. The tablet recorded the names of successive Yun Lan Sect leaders and those who had rendered great merit to the sect.
Now, upon the square, nearly a thousand people sat cross-legged. Upon the stone platform were over a dozen white-robed elders, their eyes closed in meditation. At the very top, Yun Lan Sect's Sect Leader Yun Yun and, slightly lower, Nalan Yanran stood quietly, as if awaiting someone.
Nearly a thousand were gathered here, yet within the square, not even the caw of a crow could be heard. Aside from the whistling wind, not a single other sound arose.
"Screech—"
Suddenly, a resonant eagle cry rang out. Accompanying it was a fierce, violent gale. The sound of something tearing through the air came from the sky, and the attention of the Yun Lan Sect crowd was immediately drawn over by the commotion.
It was a giant blue eagle. On the eagle's back were four figures. The one at the very front was precisely Jiang Yun.
Yesterday, Jiang Yun had suddenly sent a visiting card, intending to visit the Yun Lan Sect. Instantly, it caused a stir throughout the Jia Ma Empire.
Who was Jiang Yun? A seventh-tier alchemy grandmaster! He actually wanted to visit the Yun Lan Sect? Why, exactly?
However, some also thought of the several women by Jiang Yun's side and immediately revealed meaningful, knowing smiles inwardly. Even if a genius, he was still a young man.
Yun Lan Sect's Sect Leader Yun Yun was a beauty capable of toppling kingdoms. Perhaps he was coming for her.
For a time, countless speculations echoed in every corner of the Holy City of Jia Ma. Yet the Imperial Family, who should have been anxious about this, remained oddly quiet.
"Welcoming Grandmaster Jiang!"
Seeing the main guest arrive, Yun Yun led the group and met him with the elders. Simultaneously, a unified shout from the Yun Lan Sect resounded through the clouds.
"Sect Leader Yun, had I known of such a grand reception in advance, Jiang would not have dared to come!"
After landing, Jiang Yun looked at Yun Yun and teased.
"This..." Facing Jiang Yun's words, Yun Yun was momentarily at a loss for words, unsure how to respond. This was not her idea to begin with. She inherently preferred peace and quiet; such a display was not to her liking.
"Grandmaster Jiang's presence at my Yun Lan Sect is a blessing for our sect! The many disciples have long admired the Grandmaster, desiring a glimpse of his esteemed bearing. Having learned yesterday that the Grandmaster would arrive, today they are somewhat..."
Not waiting for Yun Yun to answer, an old man stepped forward from the crowd and spoke with a humble, flattering attitude.
"Who are you?" Before the other could finish his words, Jiang Yun cut him off with a frown.
"I am the Yun Lan Sect's Grand Elder, Yun Leng!" Hearing Jiang Yun's inquiry, the other's face lit up with delight. Carrying a trace of pride in his tone, he said haughtily.
"So it's the Grand Elder!"
"I was wondering when the Yun Lan Sect's Sect Leader had been changed."
Jiang Yun looked at the crowd, a teasing smirk curling the corner of his mouth.
Hearing Jiang Yun's words, everyone present stiffened immediately. Yun Leng was so frightened cold sweat poured down him, at a complete loss.
Indeed, ever since Yun Yun had assumed the role of Sect Leader, due to her temperament, his own power had swelled dramatically. But was this something that could be brought into the open?!
Couldn't he see that Yun Yun's expression had already turned icy cold?!
"Sect Leader, Yun Leng absolutely had no such intention..."
"Grand Elder Yun Leng's loyalty is naturally known to Yun Yun. I ask Grandmaster Jiang not to jest!" Yun Yun frowned at Yun Leng but ultimately looked seriously at Jiang Yun and spoke.
"Sect Leader Yun Yun, I have come uninvited today because there is something I seek!" Not dwelling further on this matter, Jiang Yun got straight to the point.
Jiang Yun's words stunned everyone present. Something he sought?
What could the Yun Lan Sect possibly have that a seventh-tier alchemist like Jiang Yun would fancy?
Could the rumors be true?
Everyone's gazes shifted between Jiang Yun and Yun Yun. Thinking of the rumors in the imperial capital, they couldn't help but let their imaginations run a little wild.
Yun Yun's face also flushed, but she ultimately steadied herself and said, "Please follow me, Grandmaster."
And at this moment, watching Jiang Yun and Yun Yun's group leave together, Gu He seemed to grow rather anxious. Watching their retreating figures, he tried several times to speak, but ultimately lacked the courage and could only turn away dejectedly.
Within the main hall, only Jiang Yun's group and Yun Yun's master and disciple remained. Looking at Jiang Yun, Yun Yun now felt somewhat bashful. Bracing herself, she asked, "Grandmaster, may I know..."
"Before that, I must ask Old Sect Leader Yun Shan to show himself!" However, at that moment, Jiang Yun raised a hand to stop her. His clear voice echoed within the great hall.
"Teacher..." Hearing Jiang Yun's words, Yun Yun was momentarily stunned, looking around in bewilderment.
After several breaths, there was still no movement around. Jiang Yun laughed in spite of himself: "Since Old Sect Leader Yun Shan does not wish to appear, then I have no choice but to offend!"
"Come out, you!" As Jiang Yun's voice fell, Zi Yan immediately launched an attack. A fierce punch blasted forth. The terrifying force instantly caused the surrounding space to tremble. The ultimate compressed spatial power slammed heavily against a certain spatial node.
"Not good—" Zi Yan's sudden attack startled Yun Yun. Unable to stop it in time, she immediately shielded Nalan Yanran, blocking the residual energy.
"Boom—"
Space quaked. Yun Shan, clad in white, awkwardly tumbled out from a certain space.
At this moment, his figure was somewhat disheveled. Zi Yan's sudden strike had caught him completely off guard. He hadn't expected the other party to truly perceive his location. Without preparation, it left him in such a sorry state.
Yun Shan steadied himself. His slightly vexed gaze swept through the hall. When it landed on Jiang Yun and Zi Yan, his brow furrowed slightly. A trace of gravity flashed in his eyes. Recalling his earlier sorry state, anger flickered in his gaze, and an intangible pressure emanated.
"Teacher!" Seeing Yun Shan truly hidden within the great hall, Yun Yun looked utterly stunned. At the same time, a doubt surfaced in her mind. She didn't understand—why was her teacher eavesdropping on their conversation?
"Yun'er, what is the meaning of this?" Yun Yun's voice made Yun Shan shift his gaze toward her. He asked calmly.
"Teacher, I..."
"Old Sect Leader Yun Shan, why ask when you already know the answer?" Yun Yun's words were once again interrupted before she could finish, as Jiang Yun asked meaningfully in return. Then, he spoke a sentence that utterly shocked Yun Shan.
"Also, where is Protector Wu? Have him come out together. I happen to have information here about an old friend of his!"
Jiang Yun spoke with a beaming smile. The moment the three words 'Protector Wu' left his mouth, Yun Shan's expression changed drastically. His gaze instantly turned dark and sharp.
Yun Shan's aura grew heavy and oppressive. In a cold voice, he said, "What is the meaning of this?"
Jiang Yun smiled and continued, "Sect Leader Yun has been trapped at Dou Huang for many years without progress. I understand the desire to break through to Dou Zong. However... being friends with the Soul Hall is no different from seeking skin from a tiger. Calamity looms over Sect Leader Yun, yet you remain unaware. Do you think you have the means to resist the Soul Hall's methods?"
"Right now, the Yun Lan Sect teeters at the edge of an abyss. One misstep, and it's eternal damnation."
"What?! Teacher, is what Grandmaster Jiang says true? Is there truly something wrong with your body?" Jiang Yun's words immediately made Yun Yun beside him show a face full of anxiety, and she quickly asked.
"Yun'er, your teacher is a Dou Zong expert. What problem could there possibly be? You worry too much!" Yun Shan gave a disdainful smile and soothed Yun Yun. Then he turned his head to Jiang Yun and sneered.
"Grandmaster Jiang, even if you are a seventh-tier alchemist, to think you can deceive this old man with just a one-sided statement—aren't you thinking too highly of yourself?"
Naturally, Yun Shan fundamentally did not believe Jiang Yun's words. He was a Dou Zong expert! A figure considered a powerful expert across the entire Dou Qi Continent. If there were a problem with his body, would he not sense it himself?
"Heh heh, there's no such thing as a free lunch in this world, let alone when dealing with the Soul Hall?" Jiang Yun watched Yun Shan and continued, "Perhaps until now, Sect Leader Yun still doesn't know exactly what kind of organization the Soul Hall is, or what strength it possesses?"
Jiang Yun's words made Yun Shan's expression flicker. Indeed, he only knew the Soul Hall was an extremely powerful and strange organization. But exactly where it was strong, how it was strong—he was completely in the dark.
Could there be some hidden secret within?
"Deep within your soul, a restriction has now been planted. Your life and death are no longer yours to decide."
Yun Shan's expression changed slightly, but he still maintained a calm facade. "Your words are baseless. Do you think this old man would believe you? As a Dou Zong expert, how could I not understand my own body? I am very certain—there is no such restriction on my person as you speak of."
"Heh heh, that question would be better asked to our Protector Wu here, wouldn't it?"
However, Jiang Yun at this moment paid Yun Shan no more heed. Instead, his gaze turned teasingly toward a certain spot in the great hall and he spoke in a cryptic tone.
As Jiang Yun's voice fell, it immediately drew the vigilance of everyone present. Wary gazes turned toward the direction of Jiang Yun's gaze.
"Jie jie jie, the perception of an alchemist is indeed sharp. This Protector's concealment is non-existent before you. I just wonder—what makes the soul of a genius alchemist like you so different?"
In the next instant, dark, deep laughter echoed within the great hall. Vast quantities of black mist surged out overwhelmingly. The black mist rapidly coalesced, finally forming a deep, dark fog cluster about thirty meters wide.
The black fog contracted and rippled, and finally, under everyone's watch, slowly condensed into a black-robed figure with blood-red pupils, its entire body shrouded in deep, dark black smoke.
"Another one of these fellows, neither human nor ghost!" Seeing this familiar figure and feeling that detestable, chilling aura, Zi Yan curled her lip with some displeasure.