The Shenxiao Sect, initially a branch evolved from the Dragon Tiger Mountain lineage, was just an ordinary offshoot of the three talisman schools, with nothing extraordinary about it.
However, ever since the Jinmen Feather Guest appeared, the Shenxiao Sect rose by leaps and bounds, not only becoming a major sect in the world, but even posing the potential to reign supreme among the Taoist schools, overshadowing the Dragon and Tiger.
The gate of the Shenxiao Sect is called Shenxiao Mountain.
Regardless of what this mountain was called before, once the Shenxiao Sect gained renown worldwide, it had only one name: Shenxiao Mountain.
Even if the Great Ming imperial court wiped out the Shenxiao Sect, slaughtering all its members, what could not be erased was the name 'Shenxiao Mountain'.
Pei Xuanjing, dressed in a blue Taoist robe, strode ahead while Pang Hong, carrying the Shenxiao Sword, followed closely behind him.
The two walked one after the other, slowly soaking in the scenery by the mountain road as they headed towards the mountain peak.
"Shenxiao Mountain…"
Pei Xuanjing, looking at the ruined walls along his journey, could also envision the pavilions, towers, and halls that once stood here.
Unfortunately, all was lost to history and the once grand structures had turned to dust.
Pei Xuanjing was moved.
Not because he had any particular feelings for the Shenxiao Sect, but because he lamented that the once flourishing Shenxiao Sect had been obliterated overnight, for one fundamental reason.
The Shenxiao Sect was simply not strong enough.
Perhaps once, the Shenxiao Sect teemed with powerful figures, overshadowing the Buddha Way, parading the superiority of the Shenxiao.
But when faced with the mightier Great Ming imperial court, no matter their schemes or calculations, they were ultimately reduced to ruins, their former glory faded in an instant.
Therefore, Pei Xuanjing reminded himself even more firmly that only strength is everlasting.
No matter what ideals or plans one may have, only potent strength supports everything, constitutes the foundation; without it, all is but empty talk.
In Pei Xuanjing's multiple simulations, he had never found anything useful in the old site of the Shenxiao Sect. Thus, on this visit, he ruled out the previous idea of finding clues here.
However, now that he had taken on the label of a remnant of Shenxiao, he thought he might as well come and take a look to see what kind of sect had incited this much fear in the Great Ming imperial court, even two hundred years after its destruction.
More importantly, having shouldered the blame, Pei Xuanjing had decided to take full advantage of this identity.
With today's visit to the old site of the Shenxiao Mountain Gate, coupled with the Great Ming imperial court's search warrant, his identity as Shenxiao's heir was firmly established.
In the future, if anything from the Shenxiao Sect were to be passed down, it would undoubtedly belong to Pei Xuanjing, and anyone who wished to take it would have to take his attitude into account.
Moreover, even though the Shenxiao Sect had perished, its reputation still lingered. In the future, Pei Xuanjing, as the genuine master of the Shenxiao, would indeed inherit the Shenxiao Mountain.
According to the theory of spiritual energy reawakening, after the revival of Heaven and Earth, major mountains and rivers will naturally become excellent cultivation spots. While Shenxiao Mountain may not match up to the Cave Heavens or Blessed Lands, it was not far behind them either, thus making it a strategic move by Pei Xuanjing.
While walking around Shenxiao Mountain, Pei Xuanjing looked about leisurely, touring the place with a rational. detached demeanor.
Until…
Until those from the Great Ming imperial court arrived.
Pei Xuanjing stood high in front of a dilapidated Taoist temple of the Shenxiao Sect, looking out into the distance, his robe fluttering in the mountain wind.
"Pei Xuanjing, for a remnant of Shenxiao such as you to die on Shenxiao Mountain today, how fitting it will be."
Those who arrived were none other than Shi Ruifeng, Qiu Xingwen, and Feng Hongfei from the Six Gates and Two Factories that he had clashed with in Hejian Mansion.
Beyond these three, there was also an elderly eunuch with a fair, unlined face and a gentle demeanor.
If he wasn't Wang Zhi, then who would he be?
Pei Xuanjing was calm and unruffled, not surprised at their presence at all.
In his life simulations, he had known long ago that these people would choose to ambush him at
Shenxiao Mountain. In those same simulations, Pei Xuanjing could easily deal with these individuals.
Now that he had advanced to the First-grade realm, and both his Inner Qi and physical body had likewise achieved the First-grade, he looked down upon these men even more.
If the joint effort of these four could have posed a threat to him before, now, aiming to kill them would be as easy as flipping a hand for Pei Xuanjing.
It was as simple as squashing a few ants, without a bit of difficulty.
That's why Pei Xuanjing didn't care about their threats. He glanced at the shadowy-faced Wang Zhi and said, "Old fellow, you hid beside the emperor all the time, so I spared your life. I didn't expect you to come here seeking death."
Wang Zhi's face turned cold, his eyes revealing intense murderous intent, "Pei Xuanjing, killing you today will wash away my humiliation."
Having lived for over two hundred years, Wang Zhi had only experienced such humiliation in the early days when his status was low. After his rise, especially after taking control of the Xi Factory, no one dared to treat him like this.
Even the emperor wouldn't dare to humiliate him in this way!
So, it can be said that Pei Xuanjing was the only one who made him feel humiliated in the last two hundred years, and he wished to tear him into pieces.
That's why he had traveled all the way to Shenxiao Mountain.
Here, he would kill Pei Xuanjing and vent his resentment.
"Enough talk, kill him, then we can go back and report, " Qiu Xingwen said coldly.
Obviously, he also disliked Pei Xuanjing.
"Agreed!" Shi Ruifeng nodded.
Feng Hongfei didn't say anything, but the long sword at his waist was unsheathed, the message clear.
The four of them acted simultaneously, each bursting with True Qi and Blood Qi. A long spear, a sword, and light dust each carried an endless killing intent aimed at Pei Xuanjing, practically enveloping Pei Xuanjing and the monstrous Pang Hong behind him.
At this moment, even the wind on the mountain peak halted.
Over the entire mountain peak, only the four men's profound True Qi, the Martial Arts true intention that filled the air, and the abundant Blood Qi overflowed!
This time they had gathered four first-grade experts, and they didn't even bring ordinary second-class martial artists, showing their full confidence. They believed that the four of them working together could absolutely kill Pei Xuanjing on the spot!
"Meaningless!"
Pei Xuanjing's low voice echoed in their ears like a thunderclap.
He stretched out his five fingers, turned his hand into a palm, and slapped down at the four of them.
Boom!
It seemed to the four that everything else disappeared, leaving only this palm.
No matter what trick you have, I will suppress it with one palm!
Bang!
With a single palm strike from Pei Xuanjing, the four were sent flying, landing heavily on the ground.
"You've advanced!" Wang Zhi and the others looked at him with disbelief and fear on their faces.
They never imagined that in such a short period of time, Pei Xuanjing had already stepped into the First-grade Realm.
It should be noted that the breakthrough from the Second -grade Realm to the First-grade Realm is a hurdle for many people. Countless people have struggled for years without being able to take this step, and eventually regretted it.
Even those who recognized Pei Xuanjing's extraordinary talent thought that it would take him several years to break through to the first-grade, which was why the four of them joined forces, thinking they had an opportunity to kill Pei Xuanjing.
But, to everyone's surprise, Pei Xuanjing had already broken through to the first-grade. This was beyond their expectations, and the strength he displayed made the four of them even more fearful.
"We cannot defeat him, flee quickly!"
Faced with Pei Xuanjing, who was able to deflect their combined efforts, the four no longer had any intention of fighting, and almost simultaneously had the idea to escape.
The four leaped up and fled in various directions.
Pei Xuaniing shook his head, extended his hand, and the Shenxiao sword held by Pang Hong fell into his hand.
Sword Drawing Skill!
The sword light was harsh, and the overwhelming sword intent, as expansive as the sun, enveloped the entire mountain peak, causing the four to pause..
Pei Xuanjing, who is heavily rewarded by the Great Ming imperial court, breached the first-class realm…
As the Remnant of Shenxiao, Pei Xuanjing, atop Shenxiao Mountain, single-handedly killed four first-class masters, shaking the imperial court.
Pei Xuanjing seems to intend to reestablish Shenxiao Mountain Gate by taking possession of Shenxiao Mountain…
The Emperor was furious, intending to muster troops to exterminate Pei Xuanjing, but was dissuaded by his cabinet…
The Head Capturer of the Six Gates, Lawlessness, appears to intend to personally ascend Shenxiao Mountain to capture the Shenxiao's Remnant, Pei Xuanjing…
It is rumored in the Mire Sect that the Supreme Treasure of Holy Fire Token of the Holy Flame Sect has fallen into the hands of the Shenxiao's Remnant, Pei Xuanjing…
The White Lotus Sect seems to intend to go to Shenxiao Mountain to demand the return of the Sacred Fire Order from Pei Xuanjing…
The Five Ghost Emperors of the Netherworld have decreed that anyone who can take Pei Xuanjing's life will be rewarded richly by the Netherworld.
Countless pieces of information are circulating in the martial arts world, some are true, some are false, making everyone confused about what to believe.
However, each piece of news is related to today's most prominent martial artist, Shenxiao's Remnant, Pei Xuanjing.
When the news of Pei Xuanjing breaking through the First-class realm was released, it had already gained a lot of attention.
But then the news of him killing four first-class masters by himself surfaced, the first piece of news seemed less surprising.
Insightful people have added up and found that, since Pei Xuanjing became famous, not to mention those second- and third-class masters, the death toll of first-class masters alone has reached eight in his hands.
First-class martial artists stand at the pinnacle of martial arts. They have lifespans far exceeding ordinary people and possess tremendous martial strength. They are the foundation of a power and the guarantee of inheritance of strength.
Even in most conflicts, the main force usually consists of third-grade grandmasters and pseudo-grandmasters. Second-class martial artists, let alone first-class martial artists, are rarely involved.
A battle between first-class martial artists is often symbolic, and only those with deep grudges will fight to the death.
It can be said that in the past twenty years, the total number of first-class martial artists who have died is only about thirty.
Yet this Master Pei, Pei Xuanjing, has single-handedly killed eight, accounting for nearly a quarter of the total.
Such a bloody, terrifying, and invincible battle record has made everyone hesitate.
Even though the reward offered by the imperial court has almost doubled, no one dares to provoke him.
Moreover, each of the forces that he has offended is a major force that could shake the world.
Not to mention the Great Ming imperial court, which nominally rules the Great Ming Empire and owns its myriad territories.
Just take the Mire Sect and the Netherworld. Each of these forces has a prominent reputation in the martial arts world, enough to make people tremble at the sound of their names.
Despite offending so many forces, he still lives a luxurious life and seems to have settled down on Shenxiao Mountain.
This inevitably made many people sigh in admiration , feeling that they couldn't keep up with the situation.
In the future, a large-scale battle will surely take place on Shenxiao Mountain.
This is the judgement of many people.
The forces that Pei Xuanjing has offended are not benevolent, and naturally they are not going to just sit idly by while Pei Xuanjing has his own way. They will not let themselves be the stepping stone for Pei Xuanjings rise to fame.
"Ha, let's say you wait until you have time to do so! At least now you don't have time to trouble me," said Pei Xuanjing to himself.
Seeing the news coming from Bai Xiaosheng, he was even more relieved, knowing that no one would bother him at the moment.
First, even though Pei Xuanjing's actions have caused the Great Ming imperial court to lose face and the Emperor would love to commission forces to eradicate him.
However, the court of Great Ming is currently plagued by some issues. The ambush of the Martial Academy and the Tartar tribe's recent encroachment are causing distress among the officials.
It is no secret that the emperor's intention to compile Martial Classics is well known, so the news reaching the Tartar tribe was not at all unexpected.
What bothers them most is that under the coordination of the Tartar Shaman, the previously divided Tartar tribal leaders have now united to threaten the border of Great Ming, seeming to have intentions of invasion.
What's more aggravating is that the Tartar Empire, which was essentially vanquished, now seems to be reviving, something the Great Ming imperial court cannot tolerate.
Faced with such a threat, even though the emperor is furious at Pei Xuanjing, he still knows whats important, and can only focus on the Tartar tribe.
Secondly, the Netherworld and the Mire Sect have been colluding and seem to be planning an overthrow of the Great Ming Dynasty.
Seeing that the Great Ming imperial court's attention is being drawn by the Tartar tribe, they will certainly not want to lose this once in a lifetime opportunity. Therefore, they can only temporarily let go of Pei Xuanjing and focus their energy on their big plan of rebellion.
So, it must be said that Pei Xuanjing's current situation is very good. The rival forces, while detesting him, cannot confront him due to being preoccupied with other things.
After learning that those forces don't currently have time to bother him, Pei Xuanjing of course focused his attention elsewhere.
Ever since he killed the four men led by Wang Zhi, as the rumors suggest, he has settled down on Shenxiao Mountain.
He dug into his savings, hired some craftsmen to clear the ruins on the mountain, and thought about rebuilding.
Of course, he knew that just relying on his own money, even adding what he got from Wang Zhi and his men, wouldn't be enough to reconstruct the original architecture of the Shenxiao Sect.
So, he only built a small Taoist temple according to the original layout of the Everlasting Observance.
With Pang Hong taking care of these things, Pei Xuanjing began to refine the martial arts skills he obtained from Wang Zhi and his men, and continued to accumulate Taoyu.
"It takes a hundred thousand Taoyu to simulate once, I don't know how many Taoyu I would need to simulate a breakthrough to a first-class realm," said Pei Xuanjing, looking at his Taoyu, and lamented quietly.
Since he broke through to the first-class realm, the consumption of the simulator has unsurprisingly changed, and it has now increased to the point where each life simulation requires a full one hundred thousand points of Taoyu.
The Road of Longevity is full of bones, and Pei Xuanjing, even with a life simulator, cannot help but feel the hardship of cultivation.
"I wonder how many Taoyu I can get if I refine all the scriptures in the Scripture Pavilion," he couldn't help but think.
What he lacks the most right now is Taoyu, and apart from his own cultivation and insights, he can only obtain Taoyu by refining martial arts skills.
"And in the future, every step forward, whether it'S improving strength or deducing skills, will probably require a vast amount of Tao. Could it be that one day, I'll really have to defeat various forces and forcibly take their martial arts and skills?" Pei Xuanjing seemed to foresee the day when he had to become an enemy of the world in order to refine Taoyu..