Pei Xuanjing looked somewhat puzzled, "Why is that?"
"Because I've noticed, you seem to have become much stronger." A smile surfaced on Bai Xiaosheng's face.
After all, when Heaven and Earth had just recuperated, only Pei Xuanjing broke through the Spirit Realm, he was undoubtedly the best in the world; with his strength, he could easily suppress anyone who resisted.
However, with so many new Spirit Realm masters emerging and numerous alliances merging, the situation has become more volatile. As their power grows, some will undoubtedly start to grow ambitious, wanting to break the current balance.
Being the biggest beneficiary of the current situation, Bai Xiaosheng naturally hoped for the situation to remain unchanged and continue its current course.
This was ostensibly his main purpose for coming; he wanted to discuss with Pei Xuanjing on how to handle the forthcoming developments.
But the moment he laid eyes on Pei Xuanjing, he felt Pei Xuanjing's immense power; even as a man who had stepped into the Spirit Realm, he could feel a dangerously strong aura from Pei Xuanjing. It became clear to him that Pei Xuanjing's strength has greatly increased during his period of seclusion and he still held the rightful position as the world's mightiest.
So, Bai Xiaosheng knew there was no longer need for concern.
Pei Xuanjing immediately understood his thoughts and laughed, "I never thought I would prove to be so useful. However, I'm afraid the situation is not as perfect as you imagine it to be."
He laid out the possibilities he conjured about the potential return of powerful entities to Bai Xiaosheng.
He hadn't discussed this matter with Emperor Jiajing, because the Emperor's strength wasn't at a level where he needed to know such matters. But Bai Xiaosheng was an ally, he had no need to hide it from him.
However, after speaking, Pei Xuanjing looked at Bai Xiaosheng somewhat unexpectedly, "I don't know why, but I feel like you're not as shocked as I thought you would be."
Logically, these revelations mentioned by Pei Xuanjing were astonishing secrets of the world. It would be expected for anyone who hears them to react with surprise.
But upon hearing it, Bai Xiaosheng did not seem overly astounded but rather appeared to have an air of sudden realization.
"I see, then if I'm not mistaken, these continuous occurrences in the Forbidden Places and Blessed Lands could perhaps be facilitated by those people." Bai Xiaosheng said, laughing.
Noticing Pei Xuanjing's surprised expression, he explained, "The lineage of Bai Xiaosheng has been long established, we also have suspicions regarding these matters. After all, the original lineage was cut too cleanly with nothing leftover, it's only natural to speculate that those people haven't died yet."
After listening to his explanation, Pei Xuanjing said with profound meaning, "I am becoming more and more curious about the lineage of Bai Xiaosheng."
"Hehe." Bai Xiaosheng smiled, not indicating any response.
Pei Xuanjing skipped over this topic and said, "But as you also know, in light of the current situation, if we want to proceed quickly with the plan, compromises have to be made."
"I understand, you are implying that we should accept it." Bai Xiaosheng nodded.
Without Pei Xuanjing needing to explain further, with his wisdom, he naturally understood that if the plan was to be advanced swiftly, compromises were necessary given the current state of things.
As a leader capable of managing a major faction, one who was able to stand out from so many candidates to become the contemporary Bai Xiaosheng, he was certainly not a man of short sight.
Pei Xuanjing laughed, just as he had anticipated, Bai Xiaosheng and the others would understand as soon as he expressed his speculation. There was no need for him to explain or persuade.
He said, "Since you are already aware of these people's advancement, it would be redundant for both of us to take up the same task. I believe you can invite them."
Pei Xuanjing was making preparations to host a gathering, inviting the heads of various factions, to discuss collaborating with the Great Ming imperial court in the military offensive outside the border.
After all, once the lands beyond the border are completely incorporated into Great Ming territory, not only will the Qi Luck of the Great Ming imperial court surge, but the members of these various factions would also enjoy various benefits.
Seeing such great benefits in the offing, it was natural to allocate each one's share in advance to avoid any potential conflicts.
"Leave this matter to me. I believe no one will refuse an invitation in your name." Bai Xiaosheng nodded.
The Great Ming imperial court was not suited to host this event directly. After all, some of the factions did not have a good relationship with the court. If the imperial court sent out the invitation, these people might not come and could even interpret it as a conspiracy.
However, with Pei Xuanjing's status, currently the world's number one, inviting them would be most appropriate and no one would refuse his invitation.
"Perhaps, I can use this chance to rearrange the Supreme Martial Arts Ranking!" Bai Xiaosheng thought to himself.
Of the three rankings he established, the other two could be updated on time, but the Supreme Ranking was treated with great care. He would never change it frivolously without definite proof.
Even though one of the Supreme Martial Artists, the Ghost Emperor of Fengdu, had died at the hands of Pei Xuanjing leaving a vacancy in the ranking, he only added Pei Xuanjing's name at the top without any other changes in the ranking.
However, Bai Xiaosheng was certain that this grand gathering would see the participation of various factions' strongest members, with no one daring to take it lightly.
After the resurgence of Heaven and Earth, countless new strong individuals were born, some factions were extinguished, some were absorbed, and others rose dramatically.
As Pei Xuanjing personally spearheaded this gathering, its hidden implications were self-evident. All the factions would certainly display their strength at this gathering in order to make their then statement to the world and possibly reconfigure their standing in the martial world.
Therefore, he could use this opportunity to observe the strongest from each faction and update the Supreme Ranking.
Both men went their separate ways, and three days later, according to the list given by Bai Xiaosheng, Pei Xuanjing personally wrote the invitations, requesting various factions to gather at Shenxiao Mountain to discuss important matters.
The widely recognized world's top individual personally wrote the invitations, surely this gesture from Pei Xuanjing hinted at the importance of this meeting to many people.
Northwest Dao, Tie Zhangshan.
No one expected that Zhao Baiyang, the leader of the Mire Sect who has maintained a low-profile disappearance for many years, would appear here.
Zhao Baiyang and Tie Qianshan stood atop a mountain peak at the back of the mountain, gazing out into distance, feeling the howling mountain wind, silent for a long time.
"Master."
The presence of Tie Mad in the distance broke the silence here.
Without glancing back or moving, Zhao Baiyang let Tie Qianshan answer, "What is it?"
Tie Mad respectfully responded, "State Teacher Pei Xuanjing sent someone to deliver an invitation to Master."
When he mentioned Pei Xuanjing, Tie Mad's eyes were filled with complex emotions.
Pei Xuanjing!
Now, when Tie Mad hears this name, his heart is filled with mixed emotions.
So many years have passed, but the impression of Pei Xuanjing's face from their brief skirmishes is still deeply etched in his memory.
As he recalled, their first encounter was just a match in the blessed land within the Forbidden Place of Anping Prefecture. Despite being a well-known prodigy of Northwest Dao, he was effortlessly defeated by his opponent. The shameful retreat even with the help of others led to countless rounds of mockery; it could be said that this was the nadir in Tie Mad's life.
However, as Pei Xuanjing's reputation resonated throughout the martial arts sphere overpowering the fame of all other heroes, many people realized that Tie Mad was one of the few rivals Pei Xuanjing had faced who had survived.
Tie Mad had never expected such a swift turn of events. The person who had initially caused him countless ridicule and driven him into a pit, eventually became a highlight in his life, to the point that many people expressed admiration.
This left Tie Mad feeling awkward and uncomfortable, but he was unable to voice his feelings explicitly since he was the one who had actively fled back then.
"An invitation?" Tie Qianshan sounded surprised.
He was fully aware of Pei Xuanjing's widespread fame, but actually, their paths had hardly crossed.
He perused the invitation with a puzzled look, which cleared up once he understood the meaning behind it. Handing it to Zhao Baiyang next to him, he said, "You must have also received one, but since we're here, why not have a look."
Zhao Baiyang took the invitation.
After handing over the invitation, Tie Qianshan looked over to Tie Mad, whose expression was complicated.
Understanding his disciple's thoughts and dilemmas, he gently consoled him, "Do not dwell too much on the past. Your initial defeat could also be deemed a toughening experience. If it were not for that loss, would you have achieved the Realm you possess today?"
Tie Qianshan had taken on many disciples, but few possessed outstanding abilities. In the beginning, the one he held in highest regard was the disciple who came from the same place as Pei Xuanjing. However, to his dismay, that disciple didn't survive the chaos in Northwest Dao.
Although Tie Mad initially appeared proud and impatient, he was not exceptional among other disciples. His downward spiral after the defeat in Anping Prefecture reduced him to mediocrity.
However, sometimes, one can never predict the vagaries of fate. The inconspicuous Tie Mad, who had faded into the background, surprisingly stumbled upon a great opportunity in a blessed land after the Heaven and Earth recovery, which served as a turning point in his life. His rapid growth and ascension in strength left others in dust, making him the third disciple of Tie Qianshan to break through to the Second-Class Realm.
Yet it seemed that Pei Xuanjing's influence on him was too profound. He was still unable to truly let go and move on from his defeat.
"Brother Pei's talent is peerless, he was able to step into the Spirit Realm even before the recovery of Heaven and Earth. Even if he were hailed as the most talented individual in thousands of years in the Tang Dynasty it wouldn't be an exaggeration. Losing to such a master is no disgrace." Zhao Baiyang put down the invitation and chimed in, seeing Tie Qianshan consoling his disciple.
Bursting into laughter, he said, "Think about brother Pei's journey. Many talents have been defeated by his hands, including the heads of both our sects having to avoid his edge. The fact that you survived his hand is an honor."
If not for his relationship with Tie Qianshan, Zhao Baiyang wouldn't have spoken these words.
From his perspective, the young generation of today was simply too weak – they were stuck on some minor setbacks.
In fact, among the many powerhouses of the world, apart from exceptional geniuses like Brother Pei, who could ever claim to have never tasted defeat on their path to success?
Even Zhao Baiyang and Tie Qianshan experienced many setbacks on their way up. There were times when they were so cornered by the enemy that they had nowhere to run, but they persevered!
Tie Mad stayed silent. He understood these concerns very clearly, but there were things that time and understanding simply couldn't resolve. Years of obsessing over past defeats wasn't something that could be easily resolved.
"All right, as much as words could help, it is ultimately up to you to let go," Tie Qianshan sighed and dismissed him. "Go on then!"
"I take my leave, Master!"
Tie Mad bowed to both men before quietly exiting.
"Ah, my disciple is still immature. I apologize for the embarrassment," Tie Qianshan said apologetically.
Zhao Baiyang waved his hand dismissively, "Young people, they'll have a better understanding when they see more of the world."
The same had also happened to his disciple, Yu Yiyao, who looked down on Pei Xuanjing. But after witnessing the great deeds Pei Xuanjing accomplished, she ultimately came to accept reality.
Tie Qianshan chuckled, switching the topic, "You've seen the invitation, what do you think of it?"
"What do I think?" Zhao Baiyang responded with a faint smile, "Since we have been invited, we can't exactly refuse, can we?"
Tie Qianshan nodded, "Correct. The conference this time invites all the famous forces of the world. If missed, I fear we wouldn't have the face to appear in the martial arts world again."
In his opinion, this invitation was essentially a challenge letter. Pei Xuanjing must already know about their achievement in reaching the Spirit Realm. His invitation to them was akin to flexing his own prowess, a form of intimidation. If they dared not attend, they would surely be looked down upon by many.
With these thoughts in mind, Tie Qianshan asked Zhao Baiyang, "And how confident are you now?"
"I'm not!" Zhao Baiyang shook his head firmly.
He understood that Tie Qianshan was asking whether he was confident he could engage in a battle with Pei Xuanjing after breaking through to the Spirit Realm.
With a cold smile, he said, "Given Brother Pei's style of handling affairs, he wouldn't have dared to invite us if he didn't have complete confidence to handle any one of us. Besides, nobody would believe that his power has remained unchanged after several years of secluded training."
It took Pei Xuanjing only a dozen years to go from being a beginner in martial arts to standing at the pinnacle. His outstanding talent is recognized and admired by all.
Can anyone believe that someone who entered Spirit Realm before the recovery of Heaven and Earth had not made any progress in the years following the recovery? It's ridiculous to consider.
Even from Zhao Baiyang's point of view, the recovery of the Heaven and Earth wouldn't have brought greater benefits to any other members of the martial world compared to what it must have brought to Pei Xuanjing.
"Given that the situation is as such, may I know if Brother Tie has made a decision regarding my proposal?" asked Zhao Baiyang earnestly.
Zhao Baiyang didn't come to visit Tie Qianshan as a friend, but with a purpose.
At his repeated inquiries, Tie Qianshan hesitated, not immediately providing a response.
As Pei Xuanjing conjectured, although Zhao Baiyang had kept a low profile in these years, he never stopped his actions. He incorporated Diamond Gate under his command, gathered parts of the Yinsi's power, and even integrated several branches of the White Lotus Sect, greatly increasing his strength.
He was here to invite him to join the alliance he was about to initiate: The Heretical Alliance.
"Hehe, I really don't understand what you, brother Tie, are hesitating about?" Zhao Baiyang looked at the indecisive Tie Qianshan and sneered: "Considering the current state of affairs, can't you see through it with your wisdom? Do you think you alone can protect Tie Sect?"
Tie Qianshan remained silent, he also knew that Zhao Baiyang's words were not wrong.
If the union of several major sects of the Taoist School was just the beginning, then the merger of the Demonic Cult, Buddhism School, and the family alliances after the revival of Heaven and Earth undoubtedly pushed this kind of alliance to the peak.
Besides, countless medium and small forces are not willing to be left behind. They are also seeking to unite, in order to have more assurance to survive in the upcoming situation, or even to advance one step further.
Not to mention other places, only on the Northwest Dao, countless forces have openly or secretly united. As a great power on the Northwest Dao, Tie Sect has also received numerous olive branches from other forces.
Tie Qianshan understood that if the Tie Sect did not make a decision immediately, they would likely be isolated and abandoned, becoming the cannon fodder of the times.
Just as he was preparing to respond, Zhao Baiyang once again ascended Tie Zhangshan and invited him personally.
However, facing the invitation from his once 'close friend', Tie Qianshan was somewhat hesitant and dared not make a decision lightly.
"Nowadays, the Mire Sect has indeed strengthened its strength by incorporating the Diamond Gate, Yinsi and several branches of the White Lotus Sect. It is almost on par with the top alliances. However, I, Tie, have been puzzled for a while and I wonder if you can answer the question." Tie Qianshan sighed and spoke up.
"Hmm?" Hearing Tie Qianshan's hesitation, Zhao Baiyang was not angry, but his eyes were smiling.
As they say, only buyers complain about the goods.
If Tie Qianshan had no intention of joining, he would have refused outright. However, since he raised doubts, it showed that he had considered joining. If he could dispel his doubts, everything would fall into place.
"Brother Tie, feel free to ask." Zhao Baiyang said with a smile.
Tie Qianshan didn't shy away and directly spoke: "Your Mire Sect is gathering with the Diamond Gate and Yinsi, who are both deeply hated by the Great Ming dynasty. The Yinsi is also despised in the martial arts world. This congregation, I'm afraid, will unleash suppression from many parties."
The Mire Sect, Diamond Gate and Yinsi. The alliance of these three forces is not small, but there are also many enemies and opponents. If the Tie Sect were to join, it would probably become the target of many, making Tie Qianshan apprehensive.
After all, although Tie Sect is not on par with top-tier forces, it is a dominant power in the Northwest Dao. If it wants to join somewhere, it will surely be wooed. Joining this Heretical Alliance may be too risky.
Hearing Tie Qianshan's concerns, Zhao Baiyang twitched his mouth, indeed the other party was worried about this problem.
This was the biggest obstacle he encountered when inviting others. Indeed, by incorporating these people, his strength increased, but he also had to undertake their enemies, especially Yinsi, being a killer organization in the martial arts world. They had made many enemies, and this would be all counted towards him in the future.
However, he already had a solution to this problem, so there was no need to worry too much.
"Rest assured, brother Tie, I already have a solution. If this is what you are worried about, then be at ease!" Zhao Baiyang confidently said.
Aside from Zhao Baiyang and Tie Qianshan on Tie Zhangshan, other factions had also received Pei Xuanjing's invitations.
Demonic Cult, Xue Wuheng playing with the invitation in his hand, his expression was cold, hard to tell whether he was pleased or angry.
Even though the Demonic Cult was shattered by Master Sanfeng six hundred years ago, being able to reunify it again, even if it relied on the factor of Pei Xuanjing and the coincidence of Heaven and Earth's revival, Xue Wuheng's capabilities cannot be underestimated.
This formidable figure of the Demonic Cult, even though he keeps a low profile in the martial arts world, other powers cannot dare to belittle him, especially Buddhism School and True Martial Sect, powers that have substantial enmity with the Demonic Cult, kept a close eye on him.
After the reunification of the Demonic Cult, he took advantage of the liaison of the elder of the Blood Demon Sect to make amends to Pei Xuanjing, indicating that he did not want to be enemies with him. This was all because of the factor of Buddhism School and True Martial Sect.
Those in the Demonic Cult who believed that Pei Xuanjing had a deep relationship with True Martial Sect and irreconcilable with them were suppressed by Xue Wuheng.
The people did not know that if he did not have some concerns, Xue Wuheng would even want to put aside the feud with True Martial Sect.
If it wasn't for the revival of Heaven and Earth, they would have no future to speak of, and it wouldn't matter to continue entanglement with True Martial Sect.
But now, after the revival of Heaven and Earth, the future is vast. How could Xue Wuheng want to delay his future over some old affairs?
Thus, after Pei Xuanjing came out of seclusion, found out that he had been deceived, and demanded compensation, Xue Wuheng did not hesitate to agree.
However, this one invitation made Xue Wuheng somewhat hesitant.
"This meeting at Shenxiao Mountain is inevitably not simple and is feared to be related to the issue of the Great Ming marching outside the border." Xue Wuheng speculated in his heart. "Although I don't know why Pei Xuanjing is so eager to take action, his actions like this will certainly require some benefits; otherwise, no one would support him, and some people might even impede him."
As for the matter of the Great Ming sending troops outside the border, all the factions actually had an idea. After all, the army of one million, trained by the Minister of the Ministry of War, Wang Qiong, can't just be for decoration.
Moreover, the ministers of the Taoist School, including Pei Xuanjing, were promoting this matter, which was very clear to the people like Xue Wuheng.
Although they did not know what the benefits the Taoist School was plotting, but based on the principle that not profiting is a loss, they secretly had an understanding that if the Taoist School wanted to monopolize, they would definitely not let it go.