70: Chapter 70 The Sacred Mountain Gate: First Glimpse of its Brilliance

When the first ray of morning sunlight pierced through the clouds, the flying boat was already hovering outside the grand protective array of the Taixuan Holy Land.

Bai Yunzhou stood at the front of the deck, his cyan Dao robe snapping loudly in the fierce gale.

Even with the mindset of someone who had lived two lifetimes, he could not help but gasp in shock at this moment.

The mountain range before his eyes simply shouldn't exist in the mortal world.

The main Peak reached the heavens and earth, piercing straight into the nine firmaments, its summit hidden above the rolling sea of clouds.

The seventy-two auxiliary Peaks surrounded it like stars guarding the moon, each standing ten thousand zhang tall, their mountain bodies carved with dense runes that shimmered with golden halos in the morning light.

The mountain-protecting array was semi-transparent, covering a radius of a thousand miles, where phantom Dragon figures could be faintly seen swimming within the array's textures.

The most astonishing thing was the Spiritual Qi.

Even separated by the grand array, that boundless, sea-like Heaven and Earth Spiritual Qi rushed straight at them.

With every breath, spiritual power surged into the body through the pores, converting into cultivation base with almost no need for refinement.

The concentration of Spiritual Qi here was at least twenty times that of the Qingxuan Sect, and even over fifty times that of the outside world.

"This is... the Taixuan Holy Land."

Bai Yunzhou muttered to himself.

Ye Jinglan stood half a step behind him, his gray robe motionless in the spiritual wind.

A trace of reminiscing flashed through his eyes as he slowly spoke:

"Young Master, the Taixuan Holy Land has been founded for three thousand years, ruling over a territory spanning hundreds of millions of miles around.

The Outer Sect has seventy-two Peaks, the Inner Sect has thirty-six Peaks, and the Core has nine Peaks, with each Peak guarded by a Soul Transformation Old Ancestor.

The Spiritual Qi here was gathered by the Holy Land's Ancestral Master using supreme Divine Abilities from nine large Spiritual Veins."

The flying boat began to slowly descend, dropping toward the "Welcoming Plaza" at the mountain gate.

The plaza was paved with a single piece of white jade, a thousand zhang wide.

At this moment, hundreds of Cultivators had gathered, all newly recruited Outer Sect Disciples recommended by various Sects, with cultivation ranging from Late Stage Foundation Establishment to Middle Stage Golden Core.

Everyone wore their respective Sect's attire, standing distinctly in several small groups.

Bai Yunzhou's gaze swept across the crowd.

[Name]: Zhao Lie

[Realm]: Peak Late Stage Golden Core

[Destiny Grid]: Nether Sword Child (Blue)

[Fated Luck]: Narrow-minded (Gray), Vindictive (Gray), Fair Sword Dao Talent (Green)

[Favorability]: -30 (Hostile)

[Recent Opportunity]: Three days later in the "Scripture Pavilion", unexpectedly acquire the completed section of the 《Nether Sword Art》 (Earth Rank High Grade, Defective → Complete)

Bai Yunzhou's eyes narrowed slightly.

People from Youquan Valley, and they held hostility toward him.

It seemed Qin Zhan's death had already spread.

The flying boat landed, and Bai Yunzhou walked down side by side with Ye Jinglan.

"Senior Brother Bai!"

A familiar voice came from the right.

Bai Yunzhou turned to look and saw Song Xinghe in a flurry of white clothes, with Deng Mufeng standing beside him as the two walked over quickly.

Having not seen each other for half a year, Song Xinghe's cultivation had reached the Middle Stage Golden Core, and his temperament had become increasingly steady.

Deng Mufeng had also broken through to the Middle Stage Golden Core, with a bit more capability and sharpness between her brows.

"Junior Brother Song, Senior Sister Deng."

Bai Yunzhou cupped his fists and smiled, "It seems the two of you have been living quite well in the Holy Land."

Song Xinghe smiled bitterly and shook his head, "We've merely managed to barely gain a foothold.

Senior Brother Bai, let's not talk about this for now; follow me to the 'Welcoming Hall' to handle the initiation procedures.

On the way, I will tell you about the rules of the Holy Land."

The four of them walked toward a magnificent palace on the north side of the plaza.

As he walked, Song Xinghe lowered his voice and said:

"First, private fights are strictly prohibited in the Holy Land.

Violators will have contribution points deducted, and in serious cases, their cultivation will be crippled and they will be expelled from the Holy Land.

But the 'Life and Death Stage' is an exception.

Once both parties sign the life and death agreement, life and death are left to fate."

"Second, contribution points are the hard currency of the Holy Land.

The monthly basic tasks must be completed; otherwise, points will be deducted.

Contribution points can be exchanged for Cultivation Techniques, Medicinal Pills, Magic Treasures, or even to invite Elders for guidance."

"Third, Outer Sect Disciples must be promoted to the Inner Sect within three years, otherwise they will be repatriated.

There are three ways to be promoted: reach the Nascent Soul Realm, pass the Inner Sect evaluation, or place in the top ten of the Outer Sect Grand Competition."

Deng Mufeng added, "Senior Brother Bai, Youquan Valley and the Fenji Sect have already formed an Alliance.

The Disciples of these two Sects in the Holy Land add up to over a hundred people, and they have three Peak Golden Core geniuses holding down the fort.

You... must be careful."

Bai Yunzhou nodded, "I know."

The Welcoming Hall stood nine zhang tall with its doors wide open, and a golden plaque reading "Welcoming Newcomers and Recruiting Virtues" hung over the lintel.

Inside the hall, dozens of people were already lining up to handle procedures.

Deacon Disciples sat behind long desks, methodically registering and distributing items.

Bai Yunzhou lined up at the end of one of the queues.

He noticed that most of the Cultivators inside the hall were luxuriously dressed with steady Auras, obviously elites from various Sects.

The cultivation of a few even reached Peak Golden Core, their spiritual power restrained within their bodies, obviously possessing a profound Foundation.

After waiting for about the time of an incense stick, it was Bai Yunzhou's turn.

"Name, Sect, recommender," the deacon Disciple asked without raising his head.

"Bai Yunzhou, Qingxuan Sect, recommender Elder Zhou Mu."

The deacon Disciple's brush paused, and he looked up to size up Bai Yunzhou: "Elder Zhou Mu's Disciple? I heard you won first place in the Qingxuan Sect's Inner Sect Grand Competition?"

"Just sheer luck."

The deacon Disciple smiled and began registering the information.

Moments later, he took out a few items and placed them on the desk:

"One Grade C Immortal Cave token, located on the mountainside of the Outer Sect's 'Liuyun Peak'.

1,000 basic contribution points have been deposited into your identity jade token.

This is the Holy Land Rules》 Jade Slip, be sure to read it thoroughly.

This is the Outer Sect map, marking the locations of important places."

Bai Yunzhou took the items and was about to thank him—

"Bai Yunzhou!"

A furious shout came from the hall entrance.

Everyone turned their heads in unison.

Three Cultivators in black robes strode in, and the leader was none other than Zhao Lie.

He was tall and sturdy with a gloomy expression, a pitch-black longsword hanging at his waist.

Zhao Lie locked his gaze onto Bai Yunzhou like a venomous snake, his voice ice-cold:

"My Youquan Valley Disciple Qin Zhan went missing in Panlong Ridge not long ago.

Someone saw that the last person who contacted him was you.

How do you explain this matter?"

The hall instantly quieted down.

All gazes focused on Bai Yunzhou.

There was curiosity, gloating, and also cold detachment.

Song Xinghe's expression changed and he was about to step forward, but was stopped by Bai Yunzhou raising his hand.

Bai Yunzhou turned around, looking calmly at Zhao Lie:

"Qin Zhan did indeed die by my hand."

Gasp—

A low exclamation erupted inside the hall.

Murderous intent surged in Zhao Lie's eyes: "How dare you! You actually killed a Youquan Valley Disciple?!"

"Why wouldn't I dare?"

Bai Yunzhou's tone was indifferent.

"Qin Zhan, Bai Jing of the Fenji Sect, and others ambushed and killed our Qingxuan Sect Disciple Li Dongjun at Panlong Ridge.

I happened to pass by, stepped in to save him, and fought back in self-defense.

What, Youquan Valley Disciples are allowed to kill others, but others aren't allowed to kill Youquan Valley Disciples?"

"Nonsense!" Zhao Lie shouted angrily, "What evidence do you have?"

Bai Yunzhou didn't waste words.

He took out an image-recording stone from his storage ring and injected spiritual power into it.

Hum—

Light and shadow projected into mid-air, the picture clearly visible:

In the valley of Panlong Ridge, Qin Zhan, Bai Jing, and two Peak Foundation Establishment rogue Cultivators besieged Li Dongjun.

Li Dongjun had just finished crossing his Lightning Tribulation, his Aura was weak, and he was in extreme danger.

Bai Yunzhou descended from the heavens and killed all four of them within three breaths.

The final frame froze on Qin Zhan's corpse embedded in the cliff wall.

The image-recording stone was prepared in advance by Ye Jinglan.

This seasoned veteran at the Middle Stage Nascent Soul did things seamlessly and had long anticipated this day.

After the projection finished playing, the hall fell into complete silence.

Zhao Lie's complexion turned livid, his fists clenched so tightly they made cracking sounds.

The welcoming hall's deacon Elder slowly walked over, inspected the image-recording stone, and said in a deep voice:

"The evidence is conclusive.

Qin Zhan and the others ambushed and killed first, and Bai Yunzhou's actions belonged to self-defense and counterattack.

Regarding this matter, Youquan Valley is not allowed to pursue it further."

Zhao Lie gritted his teeth and said, "Elder! Even if Qin Zhan was at fault, Bai Yunzhou's methods were far too ruthless!

This child's Heart-Nature is cruel and vicious; he is not worthy of entering our Holy Land!"

The deacon Elder glanced at him: "In a life-and-death combat, how can there be any reason to hold back?

If you are not convinced, you may apply for a review by the Law Enforcement Hall."

Zhao Lie knew that saying anything more would be useless.

He stared fixedly at Bai Yunzhou, speaking word by word:

"Private fights are prohibited within the Holy Land, but personal grievances can be settled on the 'Life and Death Stage'.

Bai Yunzhou, three days from now, we meet on the Life and Death Stage.

Do you dare accept?"

The gazes of everyone in the hall focused once again.

The Life and Death Stage was the only legal way to resolve mortal grudges in the Holy Land.

Signing the life and death agreement and stepping onto the stage meant one must take full responsibility for their own life and death.

Bai Yunzhou looked at Zhao Lie and suddenly smiled:

"Alright."

His tone was as relaxed as if he were agreeing to a dinner invitation:

"Three days from now, on the Life and Death Stage.

I'll wait for you."

A fierce glint flashed in Zhao Lie's eyes: "I hope you can still laugh when that time comes!"

Having said that, he turned around and strode away with his two fellow Sect members.

Discussions erupted like an explosion inside the hall.

"Just initiated and he already takes on the Life and Death Stage?

This newcomer is arrogant enough!"

"Zhao Lie is Youquan Valley's Outer Sect chief Disciple, at Peak Late Stage Golden Core, and his 《Nether Sword Art》 has reached Major Achievement.

He has even defeated Peak Golden Core Cultivators by leaping Realms!"

"What is this Bai Yunzhou's background?

He looks like he's only at Middle Stage Golden Core..."

"First place in the Qingxuan Sect's Inner Sect Grand Competition.

I heard he has a spatial Spirit Treasure, but external items are forbidden on the Life and Death Stage.

He's screwed."

Bai Yunzhou turned a deaf ear to these discussions.

After saluting the deacon Elder and putting away his items, he walked out of the Welcoming Hall with Song Xinghe and the others.

"Senior Brother Bai, you were too impulsive!" Song Xinghe said anxiously, "Zhao Lie's strength is formidable, and furthermore..."

"I know."

Bai Yunzhou interrupted him, "But this battle must be fought.

Without establishing our prestige, there will be even more trouble in the future."

Deng Mufeng said worriedly, "But the Life and Death Stage forbids Talismans, Formations, and one-time consumables.

I'm afraid your green ruler Spirit Treasure can't be used either."

"It doesn't matter."

Bai Yunzhou's gaze was calm, "It's just right to test the newly acquired sword technique."

Song Xinghe and Deng Mufeng exchanged glances, both of their eyes filled with worry.

But seeing that Bai Yunzhou's expression was resolute, they said no more.

"I'll take you to settle into your Immortal Cave first," Song Xinghe said.

The three of them drove their swords upward and flew toward "Liuyun Peak", one of the Outer Sect's seventy-two Peaks.

Overlooking from high above, the scenery of the Holy Land's Outer Sect was even more spectacular.

The seventy-two Peaks each had their own unique features; some had snow-capped summits, some had waterfalls cascading down their mountainsides, and some had entire Peaks covered in vines, with Spiritual Qi turning into mist lingering among the mountains.

On every Peak, there were clusters of Immortal Caves built along the mountainside, arranged in an orderly and picturesque manner.

Liuyun Peak was located on the east side of the Outer Sect, with gentle mountain terrain and moderate Spiritual Qi.

Bai Yunzhou's Grade C Immortal Cave was on the mountainside, a cave dwelling excavated into the cliff face with a small platform at the entrance that overlooked the valley below.

The interior of the Immortal Cave was about thirty zhang square, divided into three areas: a cultivation room, a living room, and an Alchemy room.

Simple gathering Formations were engraved on the walls, and the Spiritual Qi concentration was about thirty percent higher than the outside world.

"Grade C Immortal Caves are considered lower-middle tier," Song Xinghe explained.

"Grade B Immortal Caves have twice the Spiritual Qi concentration of this place, and Grade A has three times, but they require contribution points to exchange.

The monthly rent is: 100 points for Grade C, 500 points for Grade B, and 2,000 points for Grade A."

Bai Yunzhou nodded and inserted the Immortal Cave token into the groove at the entrance.

The Formation activated, and a layer of light blue light curtain shrouded the cave entrance.

"This is the basic protective Formation, which can withstand attacks from Early Stage Golden Core Cultivators," Deng Mufeng said.

"If you want a stronger Formation, you need to purchase a Formation Plate yourself."

After settling in, the four of them sat on the stone stools in the living room.

Ye Jinglan stood at the entrance of the cave, closing his eyes to rest his mind, yet his Divine Sense shrouded a radius of ten miles.

"Senior Brother Bai, how do you plan to prepare for these three days?" Song Xinghe asked.

Bai Yunzhou took out the Holy Land Rules》 Jade Slip, swept his Divine Sense across it, and browsed quickly.

A moment later, he summarized:

"The key points are: First, private fights are prohibited.

Violators will have contribution points deducted, and in serious cases, their cultivation will be crippled.

Second, the Life and Death Stage requires mutual consent and the signing of a life and death agreement.

Third, contribution points cannot be traded privately, but can be indirectly transferred through tasks.

Fourth, Outer Sect Disciples must be promoted to the Inner Sect within three years."

He put away the Jade Slip and looked at Song Xinghe:

"Let's first talk about the ways to obtain contribution points."

Song Xinghe had been well prepared and took out a Jade Slip to hand over:

"This is the 《Outer Sect Survival Guide》 I compiled.

It's the main source of contribution points.

First are the monthly basic tasks, such as patrolling and standing guard; completing them grants 300 points.

Second are bounty tasks (hunting Yao Beasts, gathering Spirit Medicine, etc.), with rewards depending on the difficulty.

Third are Grand Competition rewards.

Fourth are special contributions."

Deng Mufeng added, "Senior Brother Bai, with your strength, I suggest taking on 'hunting tasks'.

Golden Core Yao Beasts are worth 100-500 points each, and if you can hunt a Peak Golden Core Yao Beast, a single one is worth 1,000 points."

Bai Yunzhou noted it down and asked again, "What is the situation with the Cultivation Technique Pavilion?"

"The Cultivation Technique Pavilion is on the Outer Sect's 'Chuangong Peak'," Song Xinghe said.

"Earth Rank Low Grade techniques require 1,000-5,000 contribution points, Earth Rank Medium Grade 5,000-20,000 points, and Earth Rank High Grade over 20,000 points.

Heaven Rank techniques... are only open to Inner Sect Disciples and require special privileges."

"Understood."

Bai Yunzhou pondered for a moment and took out his identity jade token.

The jade token was cyan in color, with the two characters "Taixuan" engraved on the front, and his name and the serial number "Outer-7265" on the back.

Extending his Divine Sense into it, the balance of contribution points displayed: 1,000.

"I'll go take a look at the Cultivation Technique Pavilion first," Bai Yunzhou stood up, "and familiarize myself with the environment along the way."

Song Xinghe also stood up: "I'll accompany you.

Senior Sister Deng, could you please go and gather intelligence on Zhao Lie? The more detailed, the better."

Deng Mufeng nodded, "Rest assured."

Ye Jinglan opened his eyes: "Young Master, I need to go to the 'Guest Elder Hall' to register.

Nascent Soul Cultivators hold the position of Guest Elder in the Holy Land, with an independent Immortal Cave and stipend."

"Go ahead," Bai Yunzhou said, "send a message if anything comes up."

Ye Jinglan turned into a stream of light and disappeared into the horizon.

Bai Yunzhou, Song Xinghe, and Zhou Zhiting drove their swords to leave Liuyun Peak and flew toward Chuangong Peak.

Along the way, Song Xinghe pointed out various landmarks and introduced them:

"That is the 'Task Hall', which publishes hundreds of tasks every day.

That is the 'Pill Hall', where you can learn Alchemy and purchase Medicinal Pills.

That is the 'Artifact Refining Workshop', similarly.

That black high platform in the distance is the 'Life and Death Stage'.

It is surrounded by a protective grand array and guarded by Law Enforcement Hall Disciples."

Bai Yunzhou looked in that direction.

The Life and Death Stage was a black stone platform a hundred zhang in radius, standing three zhang above the ground.

The platform's surface was as smooth as a mirror, where dark red, old bloodstains could be faintly seen.

At this moment, dozens of people were gathered around the stage, as if a sparring match were currently taking place.

[part:gemini-3.5-flash]

"There are battles on the Life and Death Stage almost every day," Song Xinghe said in a low voice. "The Holy Land encourages competition. As long as no one dies, the Law Enforcement Hall usually doesn't interfere. But once you step onto the Life and Death Stage... at least dozens of people die every year."

Hearing this, Zhou Zhiting's face turned pale, and she subconsciously took a step closer to Bai Yunzhou.

Bai Yunzhou's expression remained unchanged.

The strong devouring the weak was the ironclad law of the cultivation world. The Holy Land's so-called "rules" were merely a civilized veneer over bloody competition.

They soon arrived at Chuangong Peak.

This was a uniquely shaped Peak. The entire mountain had been carved into a spiraling staircase, with a hall on every level.

The hall at the very bottom was the largest, with a golden plaque hanging over the lintel that read "Cultivation Technique Pavilion".

The space inside the hall was vast, with rows of Jade Slips floating in midair, emitting various colors of spiritual light.

Dozens of Disciples shuttled between the Jade Slips, selecting Cultivation Techniques.

Bai Yunzhou walked toward the deacon Disciple at the entrance.

"New here? Your first time in the Cultivation Technique Pavilion allows you to browse for free for one hour. After that, it costs 10 contribution points per hour," the deacon Disciple said lazily. "You can only read the introductions. To exchange for them, you need to go to the counter over there."

Bai Yunzhou nodded in thanks and walked into the hall.

His Divine Sense swept over and found that the Jade Slips were categorized by attribute: the Five Elements of gold, wood, water, fire, and earth, sword techniques, saber techniques, fist techniques, movement techniques, Formations, Alchemy, and so on.

At the same time, there were prices listed next to the Jade Slips.

The Earth Rank Low Grade Cultivation Technique "Liuyun Sword Art" required 1,200 contribution points to exchange.

The Earth Rank Medium Grade movement technique "Wave-Treading Steps" required 3,500 contribution points to exchange.

The Earth Rank High Grade fist technique "Mountain-Collapsing Fist" required 18,000 contribution points to exchange.

...

Bai Yunzhou took a quick look around and got a general idea of the situation.

The Holy Land's Cultivation Techniques were indeed much more abundant than those of the Qingxuan Sect, but the prices were also outrageously expensive.

With his current 1,000 contribution points, he couldn't even afford the cheapest Earth Rank Low Grade technique.

"It seems I need to earn contribution points as soon as possible," Bai Yunzhou thought to himself.

An hour later, the three of them left the Cultivation Technique Pavilion.

Song Xinghe said, "Senior Brother Bai, where to next?"

Bai Yunzhou looked at the sky. "Back to the Immortal Cave. I need to Cultivate in seclusion for two days to prepare for the battle on the Life and Death Stage."

"Alright."

When they returned to the Liuyun Peak Immortal Cave, Deng Mufeng was already waiting at the entrance.

"I've gathered information," she said with a solemn expression. "Zhao Lie, Peak Late Stage Core Formation, the chief Disciple of Youquan Valley's Outer Sect.

He primarily Cultivates the Earth Rank Medium Grade Cultivation Technique 'Netherworld Sword Art', which he has already mastered to Major Achievement.

Three months ago, on the Life and Death Stage, he defeated a Peak Core Formation Loose Cultivator within a hundred Moves.

He possesses a Low Grade Magic Treasure, the 'Black Fiend Sword'. The blade is coated with Netherworld Cold Poison, which freezes the Meridians of anyone it strikes."

"In addition," Deng Mufeng lowered her voice, "Zhao Lie's Revered Master is Qin Mo, a Guest Elder of Youquan Valley in the Holy Land. He is at Nascent Soul Perfection and is Qin Zhan's clan uncle.

Qin Mo is extremely protective of his own. You must be careful of his retaliation afterward."

Bai Yunzhou nodded. "Understood. Thank you, Senior Sister Deng."

Deng Mufeng hesitated for a moment but still asked, "Senior Brother Bai, how confident are you?"

Bai Yunzhou smiled. "One hundred percent."

Deng Mufeng was stunned.

Song Xinghe was also stunned.

External items are forbidden on the Life and Death Stage, and Bai Yunzhou cannot use his green ruler Spirit Treasure. What makes him so confident?

Without explaining, Bai Yunzhou turned and walked into his Immortal Cave. "See you in three days."

The Immortal Cave's Formation closed.

Song Xinghe, Deng Mufeng, and Zhou Zhiting stood outside the door, looking at each other.

"Senior Brother Bai, he..." Deng Mufeng hesitated.

Song Xinghe took a deep breath. "Since Senior Brother Bai says he is confident, we should believe him.

During these three days, we will gather as much information on Zhao Lie as possible, while also... preparing for the worst."

Zhou Zhiting clenched her fists. "Senior Brother Bai will definitely win!"

Inside the Immortal Cave.

Bai Yunzhou sat cross-legged in the center of the training room.

He did not immediately begin to Cultivate. Instead, he first took out the "holy land rules" Jade Slip and read it carefully once more.

"Life and Death Stage Rules: 1. Both parties must be willing and sign a life and death pledge;

2. Talismans, Formations, and single-use consumables are prohibited;

3. Weapons and Magic Treasures are allowed (limited to three or fewer);

4. Medicinal Pills may be used for recovery (limited to three or fewer);

5. The battle continues until one party dies or falls off the stage;

6. One may concede, but the opponent has the right to refuse."

The rules were reasonably fair.

"Zhao Lie is a Sword Cultivator, primarily focused on close combat," Bai Yunzhou analyzed. "The 'Netherworld Sword Art' has a cold attribute and is adept at corroding Meridians.

My advantages are a powerful Physical Body, a strong Divine Sense, and dense Spiritual Qi.

If we fight, I can completely use my fist techniques to break his sword Moves and use my Divine Sense to disrupt his mind, ending the battle quickly."

He closed his eyes and began to regulate his breathing.

The spiritual energy in his body surged like a rushing river, cycling repeatedly through his seven hundred and twenty spiritual acupoints.

With each cycle, his spiritual energy became a bit purer, and his cultivation drew closer to the barrier of Late Stage Core Formation.

Half a day later, Bai Yunzhou opened his eyes.

"It's about time."

He took out an "Essence Condensing Pill" and swallowed it.

The Medicinal Pill dissolved, and a boundless medicinal force surged into his Dantian.

Boom—

It felt as if something had shattered inside his body.

His spiritual energy instantly surged by thirty percent, the rotation speed of his Golden Core quickened, and even finer Dao patterns emerged on its surface.

His Aura climbed steadily, and the Spiritual Qi in the training room was frantically absorbed.

Late Stage Core Formation, Breakthrough.

Bai Yunzhou slowly exhaled a mouthful of turbid air, a golden light flashing across his eyes before vanishing.

"Still not enough."

He took out another bottle of "ten-thousand-year spiritual milk" and dripped it into his mouth.

The spiritual milk entered his body, turning into pure spiritual energy to the extreme, instantly filling all his spiritual acupoints.

His cultivation continued to climb, rushing all the way from the Early Stage of Late Stage Core Formation to Peak Late Stage, only a thread away from Perfection.

Bai Yunzhou forcefully suppressed the urge to continue making a Breakthrough.

"The Foundation must be stable; I cannot blindly pursue speed."

He stopped cultivating and began to practice his fist techniques.

The Blood Battle Eight Desolations Fist was executed within his Concept, each punch carrying the tragic, slaughtering Aura of a battlefield.

His Fist Intent and spiritual energy fused, condensing into a blood-colored Domain in front of him.

Within the Domain, ten thousand horses galloped, and sabers and swords clashed, as if thousands of troops were charging and killing.

This was the sign of a Major Achievement in fist techniques: Fist Intent transforming into a Domain.

"With my Fist Domain, Zhao Lie's Netherworld Sword Domain is nothing to fear."

Bai Yunzhou withdrew his fist stance and began to Cultivate the "Art of Refining Spirit".

Two days passed in a flash.

On the morning of the third day, Song Xinghe's voice came from outside the Immortal Cave:

"Senior Brother Bai, the time has come."

Bai Yunzhou opened his eyes and stood up.

He changed into a clean green Daoist robe, hung the liefeng sword at his waist, put on his zhuiyun boots, and wore the Black Tortoise Mountain-Suppressing Armor close to his body.

Stepping out of the Immortal Cave, the sunlight was dazzling.

Song Xinghe, Deng Mufeng, and Zhou Zhiting were all waiting outside with solemn expressions. Ye Jinglan had also returned, standing not far away, nodding slightly to him.

"Let's go," Bai Yunzhou said calmly.

The five of them soared on their swords, flying toward the Life and Death Stage.

At this time, hundreds of people had already gathered around the Life and Death Stage.

The news of a newly entered Disciple accepting a battle on the Life and Death Stage had already spread. Not only did most of the Outer Sect Disciples come, but even some Inner Sect Disciples came to watch.

"They're here, they're here!"

"The one in the green robe is Bai Yunzhou? He looks quite ordinary."

"Late Stage Core Formation? Didn't they say he just broke through to the Middle Stage? How is he so fast?"

"A Breakthrough right before the battle? Interesting."

The crowd automatically parted to form a path.

Bai Yunzhou and the other four landed, walking toward the Life and Death Stage.

On the stage, Zhao Lie had already been waiting for a long time.

Today, he had changed into black martial attire, with the Black Fiend Sword strapped to his back, his gaze as sharp as a falcon's.

Seeing Bai Yunzhou arrive, a cold sneer played at the corner of his mouth.

"I thought you wouldn't dare to come."

Bai Yunzhou did not answer, slowly stepping onto the stage.

A Law Enforcement Hall Disciple stepped forward and said in a deep voice:

"Both sides, state your names."

"Bai Yunzhou, Qingxuan Sect."

"Zhao Lie, Youquan Valley."

"Are the rules of the Life and Death Stage clear?"

"Clear."

"Sign the life and death pledge."

Two blood-colored Talisman papers drifted before them. Bai Yunzhou bit his fingertip and signed with his blood. Zhao Lie did the same.

The Talisman papers burned, turning into two streaks of blood-light that sank into their foreheads.

"The life and death pledge has been established. Life and death in this battle are at your own risk." The Law Enforcement Hall Disciple retreated to the edge of the stage and activated the protective Formation. "Begin!"

Buzz—

A translucent light barrier rose, enveloping the entire Life and Death Stage.

Zhao Lie slowly drew the Black Fiend Sword, its blade pitch-black as ink, emitting a cold, gloomy Aura:

"Bai Yunzhou, I will use your blood to pay tribute to Junior Brother Qin Zhan."

Bai Yunzhou also drew the liefeng sword, its silver-gray blade flowing with wind-attribute runes:

"Cut the crap."

The two moved almost simultaneously.

Zhao Lie's sword struck like a phantom, and dozens of black sword shadows instantly blanketed the field. Each shadow was difficult to distinguish between real and false, and the wind from the sword was bone-chillingly cold.

Netherworld Sword Art First Style: Ghostly Shadows.

The zhuiyun boots on Bai Yunzhou's feet flashed with spiritual light, and his figure turned into an afterimage, weaving through the sword shadows. The liefeng sword thrust rapidly, precisely striking the intersection of three sword shadows.

Clang, clang, clang!

With three crisp sounds, the three sword shadows shattered.

Zhao Lie's eyes narrowed. "You have some discernment."

He changed his sword stance, the black light on the blade flaring intensely, and a zhang-long black sword energy slashed out, freezing the air into frost wherever it passed.

Netherworld Sword Art Second Style: Frost Bone-Corrosion.

Bai Yunzhou neither dodged nor avoided, slashing the liefeng sword horizontally to meet it with a green sword energy.

Boom!

The two swords collided, sending waves of air rolling.

Bai Yunzhou took three steps back, while Zhao Lie took two.

On the surface, Zhao Lie had a slight upper hand.

The crowd below the stage bustled with discussion:

"Indeed, Senior Brother Zhao's strength is greater!"

"Bai Yunzhou's sword technique is good, but his cultivation is a thread short."

"This is just the beginning; the good show is yet to come."

Pressing his advantage, Zhao Lie unleashed continuous sword Moves, executing the Netherworld Sword Art style after style.

The black Sword Qi crisscrossed, gradually forming a cold Domain that enveloped Bai Yunzhou within it.

Netherworld Sword Domain!

The temperature inside the Domain dropped sharply, frost forming on the ground, and a cold wind howled, with the faint sound of weeping ghosts.

This was a Domain that could only be condensed upon reaching a Major Achievement in the "Netherworld Sword Art". It could suppress the opponent's spiritual energy flow and corrode their Meridians.

Bai Yunzhou's movements noticeably slowed down, seemingly affected.

A ruthless look flashed in Zhao Lie's eyes as he suddenly surged all his spiritual energy:

"Netherworld Bone-Corrosion—Slash!"

The Black Fiend Sword burst with blinding light, and a ten-zhang-long pitch-black sword energy descended from the sky, slashing directly toward the top of Bai Yunzhou's head.

With this strike, he used one hundred percent of his strength, determined to kill with a single blow.

Below the stage, the hearts of Song Xinghe and the others leapt into their throats.

Zhou Zhiting even covered her mouth, almost screaming out loud.

Just at the moment the sword energy was about to fall—

Bai Yunzhou raised his head, a hint of mockery flashing in his eyes.

The zhuiyun boots on his feet shone brilliantly, and his figure shifted three zhang horizontally like a phantom, perfectly evading the sword energy.

At the same time, he threw a punch with his left hand.

There were no fancy Moves; it was just the most ordinary straight punch.

But the moment this punch was thrown, the temperature of the entire Life and Death Stage suddenly soared!

Crimson blood qi erupted from the knuckles, condensing into a solid fist print.

On the surface of the fist print, pale golden Dao patterns flowed, and a tragic, domineering, and utterly brutal Battle Intent soared into the sky!

Blood Battle Eight Desolations Fist Intent—Realm of Major Achievement!

The fist print collided with the black sword energy.

Chii—

There was no earth-shattering explosion, only a soft sound.

The black sword energy dissolved instantly like ice and snow meeting the sun.

The fist print's momentum remained undiminished as it passed through the sword energy and slammed heavily onto Zhao Lie's chest.

Zhao Lie's pupils shrank sharply; it was already too late to dodge.

He could only frantically circulate his spiritual energy to protect his body, holding the Black Fiend Sword horizontally in front of his chest.

Bang!

The fist print smashed onto the sword blade.

Crack—

The Black Fiend Sword (imitation) let out a wail, web-like cracks appearing on the blade.

Pfft!

Zhao Lie spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, his body flying backward like a broken kite, slamming heavily against the protective light barrier before sliding to the ground.

He struggled to stand up, but found a sharp pain in his chest. At least three of his ribs were broken, and the Golden Core in his Dantian was trembling.

One Move.

With just one Move, the victor was decided.

Below the stage, there was a deathly silence.

Everyone stared with wide eyes and open mouths, yet could not make a sound.

After a few breaths, an uproar erupted!

"W-what is going on?!"

"One punch! Just one punch?!"

"Zhao Lie was defeated? Zhao Lie, at Peak Late Stage Core Formation, was defeated with a single punch?!"

"What kind of fist technique is this? It's too terrifying!"

"Bai Yunzhou hid his strength! He isn't afraid of the Netherworld Sword Domain at all!"

On the stage.

Bai Yunzhou withdrew his fist and walked slowly to Zhao Lie.

Zhao Lie struggled to raise his head, his eyes filled with shock and disbelief. "You... you..."

"Do you concede?" Bai Yunzhou's tone was flat.

Zhao Lie gritted his teeth, still wanting to hold out.

Bai Yunzhou raised his foot and stepped gently on Zhao Lie's chest.

Crack—

Another rib fractured.

Zhao Lie let out a miserable shriek, finally breaking down. "I... I concede!"

"Since you've conceded, then die!"

Bai Yunzhou threw another punch, directly slaying Zhao Lie.

Even in death, Zhao Lie could not understand why he was still killed when he had clearly conceded.

But for Bai Yunzhou, since a feud had already been formed, he had to cut the grass and eradicate the roots.

The Law Enforcement Hall Disciple deactivated the protective light barrier and announced loudly:

"In this battle, Bai Yunzhou wins!"

Bai Yunzhou withdrew his foot, turning to walk off the stage.

From beginning to end, his expression was calm, as if he had only done a trivial thing.

The crowd below automatically parted, everyone looking at him with eyes full of awe, fear, and disbelief.

Song Xinghe and the other two came forward to meet him, shock still lingering on their faces.

"Senior Brother Bai, you..." Song Xinghe did not know what to say.

Bai Yunzhou smiled. "Let's go, we'll talk back there."

The group soared on their swords, leaving the Life and Death Stage under the gaze of hundreds of eyes.

The news of this battle swept through the entire Outer Sect like a gale.

The newly entered Disciple, Bai Yunzhou, had defeated the chief of Youquan Valley's Outer Sect, Zhao Lie, with a single punch.