So when he heard the Heavenly Master's query, Yu Yangzi wasn't surprised, Imowing that his master was testing him.
After a brief moment of considering his words, Yu Yangzi slowly said, "This plan is quite ambitious. Compared to previous ones, they are as different as the heavens and the earth. Anyone else might think it's a naive dream. Yet considering that the one proposing it is the heir to the Shenxiao Sect, it seems perfectly reasonable, with nothing inappropriate."
But how could Yu Yangzi not ponder this matter himself?
He had spent all his time these past few days thinking about the feasibility of this plan.
Yu Yangzi did not throw out his opinion immediately, instead, he first discussed his thoughts on Pei Xuanjing.
"Hehe." The old Heavenly Master chuckled, continuing to listen to Yu Yangzi speak.
Yu Yangzi was correct, this kind of insane plan would make any other proposers look like madmen or idiotic. But the fact that someone from the Shenxiao Sect proposes it, makes it seem not absurd, but instead that it is sensible.
After all, such a plan is nothing compared to what the Shenxiao Sect has done in the past based on their history. They've done even crazier things.
Yu Yangzi went on, "If the original plan was to help the True Martial Sect covertly gain control of a province, with the power of our Ji Fang Alliances, that should be an easy task. Even if we end up unsuccessful, as long as our alliances remain intact, we can still retreat unscathed. The Great Ming imperial court would also turn a blind eye to this. The worst outcome would be to close off our mountain gates."
As he said, taking control of a province in secret was not a significant matter. Given the control of the Great Ming imperial court, they still needed the help of these local 'snakes' in their smallest towns and villages.
As long as they did not revolt, there would be no significant blame, and due to the influence of the factions, ultimately all would end well.
"However, if we follow Grandmaster Pei's plan and unite the Taoist schools to control the imperial lineage. Seizing this opportunity to get the Great Ming Empire under our control, and to gain the upper hand before Heaven and Earth resurrect, truly a big move. If we succeed, not only will our factions significantly benefit, we can also, during this opportunity, elevate our Taoism, suppress other paths and exalt the Taoist school alone. Perhaps also fulfill the long-standing aspiration of the Taoist predecessors, establish the Divine Dynasty on earth, and henceforth all living beings prosper."
When he gave this speech, even Yu Yangzi could not help but to be passionately aroused and exulted.
No doubt, Pei Xuanjing's plan was too grandiose, too enticing, once successful, they could leave an indelible mark on the history of Taoism, and be respected for generations to come.
Establish the Divine Dynasty on earth, all living beings prosper, the world flourishes in peace, lasting prosperity for generations.
This wasn't an objective proposed by the Shenxiao Sect, but had initially been proposed during the end of the Divine Han era by the highly esteemed teacher, Taiping Daoist.
Dragon Tiger Mountain had just established their sect at that time, although they did not join the camp of that virtuous teacher, they engraved his lofty goal in their hearts and passed it down through generations.
Old Heavenly Master: "Do you know what would happen if this plan fails?"
Yu Yangzi's face was solemn, he slowly replied, "If it fails, the inheritance of Dragon Tiger Mountain that lasted for millennia might be washed away." Dense rewards often accompany colossal risks.
If this plan fails, they are bound to face the backlash of the Great Ming imperial court and the siege of various forces.
Even with Dragon Tiger Mountain's millennia of heritage, it cannot endure such a blow. The best outcome would likely be the closure of the sect.
"It seems you have made up your mind." The old Heavenly Master remarked leisurely.
Yu Yangzi was taken aback. He asked in confusion, "Master, don't you think my action is too risky?"
The old Heavenly Master shook his head, "Risky? Dragon Tiger Mountain has taken risks over thousands of years and still stands firm in the world. A bit of risk is nothing."
Yu Yangzi mused about this while hearing the old Heavenly Master say, "You have already persuaded many elders, why should I stand in your way?"
"Please forgive me, Master, I was only…" Yu Yangzi, feeling cornered as the old Heavenly Master broke the news of his alliance with the elders, promptly bowed to apologize.
The old Heavenly Master waved him off, indicating there was no need. He said to Yu Yangzi, "I'm relieved that you acted this way."
"Go and tell Taoist Pei, Dragon Tiger Mountain agrees to the matter this time. But what belongs to us cannot be less by even a hair." Yu Yangzi was taken aback. The old Heavenly Master did not intend to explain further, but ordered him to leave, "I need to continue my retreat, you should withdraw. This matter is now entirely your responsibility."
"Yes!"
Yu Yangzi suppressed his confusion and slowly retreated.
As soon as Yu Yangzi left, the old Heavenly Master's face revealed a satisfied smile. He murmured to himself, "My years of cultivation did pay off; Dragon Tiger Mountain finally has successors."
The reason the old Heavenly Master had not stepped down wasn't that he couldn't let go of his authority, but that Yu Yangzi's performance always fell short. When having to make some decisions, he seemed indecisive, finding it difficult to make definitive decisions.
If it were any other era, with Yu Yangzi's performance, he could easily manage being a Taiping Heavenly Master, but nothing more..
However, this era seems a little improper for such a tradition.
The Heaven and Earth are about to revive!
Sure, this news might deceive ordinary martial artists and newborn forces, but it is impossible to hide it from established powers like Dragon Tiger Mountain, who have inherited thousands of years of tradition.
The Old Celestial Master clearly anticipates that the upcoming era will inevitably be one of grandeur and turmoil – the Great World. Many people or powers might rise with the wind, while others might quietly retreat from the scene.
Even with the depth of Dragon Tiger Mountain, they have no absolute assurance in maintaining their leading position and directing the path in this grand era.
Therefore, if Yu Yangzi can't show enough competence, the Old Celestial Master would find it difficult to confidently hand over the leadership to him.
In this giant era, full of turbulence, opportunities, and risks, the Celestial Master of Draqon Tizer Mountain shoulders the mission of the mountain, carries its glory, and the lives of its many disciples.
He may not be exceptionally clever or possess superior martial arts, but…
However, as the Celestial Master of Dragon Tiger Mountain, he absolutely cannot be indecisive, wavering or sluggish.
This time, Yu Yangzi strongly made a decision and united many elders. Despite the hint of a forced abdication, The Old Celestial Master was not angry but actually felt relieved.
"Looking at your expression, my Taoist friend, I assume you bring good news?"
Hearing of Yu Yangzi's visit while consulting with Yu Zhenzi, Pei Xuanjing laughed heartily as he welcomed Yu Yangzi in.
An amused smile appeared on Yu Yangzi's face: "My master has agreed. We,
Dragon Tiger Mountain, accept your plan."
"Ha ha ha," Pei Xuanjing gave a hearty laugh, commending: "With Dragon Tiger Mountain joining us, the great cause can be accomplished."
The involvement of Dragon Tiger Mountain, without doubt, was a significant advantage, which reassured Pei Xuanjing.
Yu Zhenzi also had a smile on his face, saying cheerfully: "Bai Xiaosheng has sent news agreeing to our plan. Now we just need to wait for news from the True Martial Sect."
Pei Xuanjing nodded, saying: "For True Martial Sect, as long as Taoist Priest
Qingxu gives his approval, everything will fall into place."
Pei Xuanjing was very confident in True Martial Sect, considering that they had invested significant resources into this matter. If the plan was to stop now, their loss would likely be the greatest.
Even for the sake of the human and material resources previously invested by True Martial Sect, they would not easily give up.
"In that case, we'll just have to wait for the good news," Yu Yangzi said.
Looking at the hearty and frank Pei Xuanjing, Yu Yangzi's thoughts drifted.
Yu Yangzi was unsure of the Old Celestial Master's thoughts, but he was very clear about himself.
Comparing martial arts, he wasn't as skilled as Pei Xuanjing. In terms of strategy, he wasn't as good as Taoist Qingxu; in decisiveness, he was inferior to the Chunyang Sect's Master; in making friends, he wasn't as good as Master Guan of Baiyun Temple.
It could be said that among the current leaders of the major powers of the Taoist School, Yu Yangzi was the most ordinary.
People should not fear acknowledging their inferiority to others. What's worse is when an individual clearly knows they are inferior yet refuse to admit it.
Yu Yangzi knew he was not as good as others, but he also recognized his own status.
At present, with the Old Celestial Master not interfering in worldly affairs, Yu Yangzi undisputedly represented Dragon Tiger Mountain, especially after persuading many elders within the sect.
He realized that, for Pei Xuanjing, it didn't matter who formed the alliance with them, but they certainly wouldn't ignore the existence of Dragon Tiger Mountain.
In today's Taoist School, even counting the Shenxiao Sect, which Pei Xuanjing still hasn't fully restored, there are only five major forces: Shenxiao, Zhenwu, Dragon Tiger Mountain, Baiyun, and Chunyang. The influence of other branches within the Taoist School is negligible, with only a few powerful individuals emerging occasionally.
It could be said that Dragon Tiger Mountain is his greatest reliance. As long as his interests align with those of Dragon Tiger Mountain, he can remain unbeatable.
"I wonder if my Taoist friend would be willing to invite individuals from Chunyang Sect and Baiyun Temple to discuss this matter together?"
Hearing Pei Xuanjing's proposal, Yu Yangzi's thoughts realigned, nodding: "Certainly, when would you like to convene the meeting?
However, with the rise of True Martial Sect, these two sects gradually interacted more with Dragon Tiger Mountain, particularly after the downfall of the Shenxiao Sect, their ties have become increasingly intimate.
It was precisely because of this that he made that request at the time.
Pei Xuanjing thought for a moment and said, "Time is of the essence. Let's wait one month."
After finishing, he addressed Yu Zhenzi, "You can stay at Dragon Tiger Mountain during this period, waiting alongside Taoist friend Yu Yangzi for the arrival of the other parties."
Yu Zhenzi nodded, asking: "Where will you go?"
She knew that after the not-so-distant battle, both Pei Xuanjing and the Old Celestial Master had gained greatly, so the Old Celestial Master was still in retreat.
She originally thought Pei Xuanjing would also retreat, but now his words suggested he had something to do.
Pei Xuanjing smiled, saying: "To meet someone and deal with some miscellaneous matters."
Seeing Pei Xuanjing respond this way, Yu Zhenzi did not continue asking, having some understanding in her heart.
The next day, Pei Xuanjing left Dragon Tiger Mountain alone, heading for a certain place.
The person he was going to meet was none other than the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu, the ruler of the Netherworld..
Pei Xuanjing originally didn't take the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu seriously, but once the latter made his move, Pei Xuanjing wouldn't tolerate him either.
Ever since Zhao Baiyang informed him that the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu was conspiring against him, Pei Xuanjing naturally wouldn't sit and wait for his death. So, he had sent a message to Bai Xiaosheng, asking him to monitor the Ghost Emperor's movements.
A few days ago, he had already learned of the Ghost Emperor's whereabouts. If it weren't for the change in his initial plan, which required waiting for replies from Bai Xiaosheng and Dragon Tiger Mountain, he would have descended the mountain long ago.
Now that the matters of Dragon Tiger Mountain had temporarily concluded, he decided to immediately descend the mountain and deal with this trouble.
A manor hundreds of miles away from Dragon Tiger Mountain.
This manor was built in the suburbs, with sparse human traffic. The locals only knew this place as the mansion of a wealthy merchant.
No one knew that this place was also a secret base of the underworld.
The Ghost Emperor of Fengdu, dressed in his ceremonial dragon robe, sat in the main seat with a somber expression and a burning rage in his heart.
"A bunch of cowards!"
"Just a single Pei Xuanjing, and they're terrified of him. They still have the audacity to call themselves masters."
Now, even when I invite him to take action, he dares not. I really look down on him."
"And that Sky Demon Sect Leader, Xue Wuheng, who was bragging about wanting to see Pei Xuanjing's abilities before, now dares not come, saying he disdains to join forces. Heh, pretending to be a master of the Righteous Path, truly contemptible."
The Ghost Emperor of Fengdu couldn't help but be angry. He never expected that Pei Xuanjing's display of power during his battle against the elder Celestial Master at Dragon Tiger Mountain would deter so many people.
In this period of time, he invited many people to join hands and deal with Pei Xuanjing.
But those people not only changed color when they heard Pei Xuanjing's name, they also kept refusing.
Even Zhao Baiyang, the Sect Leader of Mire Sect, and Xue Wuheng, the Sky Demon Sect Leader, refused his invitation, which infuriated the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu.
Not to mention Xue Wuheng, but in his mind, Zhao Baiyang's Mire Sect had a significant grudge against Pei Xuanjing, yet he also refused. It was incomprehensible.
Unfortunately, he had spent a lot of effort recently and only managed to invite a Seven Kills Sword Master of the Seven Kills Demon Sect to join.
"Hmm!" The emperor huffed in frustration.
Just as this happened, a tall, middle-aged man carrying a long sword strode in.
Despite being sheathed, the long sword on the man's back emitted a terrifying aura, filled with a sense of death, as if a sea of corpses and oceans of blood were rushing over.
With a touch of impatience between his eyebrows, the Seven Kills Sword
Master asked, "When exactly are we going to wait?"
Although he had no grievances or grudges with Pei Xuanjing, after witnessing Pei Xuanjing's fight on Dragon Tiger Mountain, he was eager to see Pei Xuanjing's Sword Mastery and wanted to prove who was superior.
So when the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu invited him, he didn't refuse and wanted to take this opportunity to fight against Pei Xuanjing.
However, after waiting several days here without any movement from the other party, he started to grow impatient.
Despite the Seven Kills Sword Master's impoliteness, the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu wasn't too bothered. After all, he was the only powerful figure who had accepted his invitation at the moment.
To prevent this master from leaving, he had no choice but to placate him: "We just need to wait for a while longer; I have invited several other masters who will be arriving soon."
He was also in a hurry, but he knew that he couldn't rush such matters.
After witnessing Pei Xuanjing's strength firsthand, the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu realized that killing him wouldn't be easy. As it stood, even if they teamed up, there was little certainty of success.
Considering the underworld, those First-grade masters didn't even qualify to partake in this ambush. Therefore, he had to gather a few more masters to ensure that he could restrain Pei Xuanjing.
"I can't wait for you indefinitely," the Seven Kills Sword Master said coldly.
Even if it was to challenge Pei Xuanjing, he couldn't keep waiting indefinitely.
The Ghost Emperor of Fengdu nodded and promised, "It won't be long, I assure… "
Boom!
Before the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu could finish his sentence, a loud noise suddenly came from outside, and the ground beneath their feet violently shook as if there was an earthquake.
Someone was attacking!
The Ghost Emperor and the Seven Kills Sword Master glanced at each other, instantly realizing what was happening.
"Who dares to attack an underworld base? They're looking for death!" The Ghost Emperor of Fengdu was livid.
At the same time, he wondered if the underworld had especially bad luck recently to continually encounter these unfortunate events.
"How dare this audacious villain intrude…"
Such a disturbance naturally drew the attention of experts affiliated with the underworld within the manor; someone instantly chided aloud.
Unfortunately, before they could finish, they abruptly stopped speaking.
Immediately afterward, a deafening voice reached the ears of the two, making them pale.
"Ghost Emperor of Fengdu, you've been looking for me, haven't you? I'm here today, why don't you come out and meet me!"
The loud voice echoed in all directions, causing the people of the underworld within the manor to change colors.
How did he come here!
The Ghost Emperor of Fengdu's face changed slightly. He never expected that Pei Xuanjing would take the initiative to seek him out, let alone be aware of his location.
Someone must have betrayed him.
He knew in his heart that someone among those he had contacted must have sought to be on friendly terms with Pei Xuanjing, and hence betrayed him, allowing Pei Xuanjing to learn of his plans.
"If I find out who betrayed me, I will make sure they die a painful death!" The Ghost Emperor hid his murderous intent.
"Hahahaha, Excellent!" The Seven Kills Sword Master was initially taken aback, but then with a determined flash of his form, he rushed outside.
"Wait…"
The Ghost Emperor's attempt to stop him was in vain and his expression flashed with resentment. Despite his displeasure, he reluctantly followed the master who was currently the only one to accept his invitation.
From his instinct as an assassin, his first thought at this moment wasn't to confront the enemy, but rather to leave this place.
The masters he had invited had not yet arrived and teaming up with the Seven Kills Sword Master, they likely weren't a match for Pei Xuanjing.
Even if they achieved victory, if Pei Xuanjing intended to escape, they wouldn't be able to hold him back.
It would be better to withdraw immediately to avoid the sharp edge temporarily.
But seeing the Seven Kills Sword Master rush out, he had no choice but to suppress his desire to leave and followed him out.
In the manor, Pei Xuanjing, dressed in a dark brown robe with hands behind his back, stood atop a pavilion. His robe rippled in the wind; his eyes were sharp as he keenly sensed the situation within the manor, trying to detect the traces of Ghost Emperor of Fengdu..