Chapter 1524: Arrival

Chapter 1524: Arrival

The white-robed female cultivator's ice-crystal-like pupils slowly contracted, her heart trembling with agitation.

Senior Brother Zhuang's fate was unknown, his Heavenly Secret extinguished.

The Daoist she had once called "First Senior Brother" had now completely fallen into demonic corruption, stirring up a great calamity upon heaven and earth, bringing devastation to countless lives—he was no longer a disciple of their sect.

Beyond that, who else... had the qualification and such Heavenly Secret Computational Power to trigger the sect's Karmic Resonance?

Who could it be...

The white-robed female cultivator's brows furrowed slightly as memories surged through her Sea of Consciousness.

Yet she could not possibly imagine—with her two senior brothers, one having fallen in Dao, the other having rebelled against it—who in this world could still accomplish such a thing...

Who could use Heavenly Secret Computational Power to stir the karmic threads of this sect, filled as it was with monstrous prodigies who had comprehended the profound mysteries of creation...

Or was this, in fact, another scheme of that "First Senior Brother"?

His layout in the Great Wilderness was already complete, the Strange Dao had descended upon the world, and now he could finally free her hands to pursue other plans.

For instance... forging a response from the sect's resonance, drawing in those connected to this Karmic Thread, and luring them one by one to their deaths?

The white-robed female cultivator's heart suddenly trembled.

Such a thing would normally be impossible... but when it came to that "First Senior Brother," nothing was impossible.

After all, the Guīxū Celestial Burial was in his hands.

And the Heavenly Secret Deceptive Algorithm... he had mastered it to perfection.

Now he had even condensed a heaven-reaching Strange Dao Demonic Statue...

The white-robed female cultivator drew a deep breath of cold air, her gaze filled with uncertainty and alarm.

She considered following the Karmic Thread to probe deeper into the truth, to learn who was touching Sect's Karmic Thread, and whether there was any handiwork of the "First Senior Brother" behind it.

But as she well knew, she had never possessed much talent in the Heavenly Secret Algorithm.

Back in her years of study, she had been fond of play, and had never taken much interest in those profound, obscure, and ethereal Heavenly Secret Calculation Techniques.

It was only after Senior Brother Zhuang met with misfortune, she had been consumed by grief, and only then, in her pain, had she resolved to change—recalling their Master's teachings from those days, she had devoted herself to studying the Heavenly Secret Algorithm for a time.

But that kind of last-minute Heavenly Secret skill was more than enough for calculating others.

Yet once it involved the Ancestor, or beings like the Little Senior Brother...

Especially, someone capable of triggering the Sect's resonance, even if not the First Senior Brother, even if not one of the Ancestor's people, would surely be... some great master of Heavenly Secret hidden within the formless.

That was far beyond the reach of her computational power.

As the white-robed female cultivator hesitated, she indeed saw that within the web of cause and effect, the faint thread of the sect connection's trace had completely severed.

As if this hidden Heavenly Secret Powerhouse had sensed something amiss, halted their calculations, cut the Karmic Thread, calmed their Divine Sense Thought Power, and once again vanished into the formless.

And that behavior was precisely like "fishing" in the formless ocean of cause and effect. The Karmic Thread was the fishing line.

The white-robed female cultivator's brows knit tightly.

Heavenly Secret appeared formless, yet it was vast as an ocean, its bounds unknowable.

Beneath the seeming calm, there might lurk great terror.

Many times, if one was merely curious and took one more look, one might see what that great terror was, but you might also, from then on, be gazing into the deep abyss, never to return...

Starlight flowed, and within the jade-clear cabin of the floating vessel, the white-robed female cultivator sat in silent meditation for a long while, until finally she let out a sigh:

"Enough. Let us first attend to the matters at hand..."

The figures involved in Sect's Cause-and-Effect were all far too dangerous.

Whether it was the Sect itself, with its heaven-defying monstrous prodigies.

Or those who had betrayed the Sect, terrifying Strange Dao beings like the First Senior Brother.

Or even... those Heavenly Secret cultivators who could secretly manipulate the Sect's resonance to "fish"...

None of these could be approached rashly. With the slightest carelessness, the consequences would be unimaginable.

And this journey of hers... there were more important matters to resolve.

With that thought, the white-robed female cultivator activated her heart technique, forcibly gathering her scattered thoughts, setting aside Karmic Resonance, and returned to seated meditation, no longer dwelling on those past affairs.

Outside the cabin, the magnificent white-jade starlight floating vessel lay hidden within the clouds, like a star-shuttle, racing through the cloudscape at tremendous speed.

The ordinary cultivators across the vast lands of Kun Province could not see the vessel's trail at all. Occasionally glancing upward, they would only catch a cloud-trail piercing across the sky.

...

The floating boat wove through the clouds, and two days later, it came to rest at the Cloud Ferry of Houtu City, entering the Cloud Mooring—a berth reserved exclusively for honored guests within the Cloud Ferry's interior. The entire process was silent and soundless, cut off from cause and effect as well. In all the vastness of Houtu City, few knew of the boat's arrival.

But at the boat's mooring, within a quiet and secluded chamber of the Cloud Mooring, a palace-robed woman had received word in advance and was waiting in stillness. This palace-robed woman was elegant in countenance, her face round and fair like a jade platter, her bearing dignified and serene. She sat alone in the guest-receiving chamber, quietly sipping clear tea.

Only when the floating boat came to rest and the clouds surged did her expression shift slightly. She slowly rose to her feet, walked to the front of the jade terrace, and stood there in silence.

Before long, the glassy Qi Mechanism around them began to stir, and an intangible pressure descended. The palace-robed woman lifted her head slightly and saw, upon the jade steps, a group of women in white jade-like robes approaching. Three Golden Core maidens, dressed as attendants, yet radiating an air of nobility. At the forefront was a woman clad in translucent white robes, her form both real and illusory, possessing a beauty that could topple cities and a bearing like an exiled immortal returning to truth.

"Bai Qingcheng"

As the name surfaced in her mind, the palace-robed woman was momentarily dazed, then quickly lowered her brows and said with utmost respect, "This humble one greets the True-Person Bai."

Bai Qingcheng's gaze fell upon the palace-robed woman, and her originally cold and noble demeanor softened by a few degrees. She walked slowly, stepped before the palace-robed woman, took her hand, and said gently:

"Why call me True-Person? Back when we cultivated together, you clung to me every day, calling me elder sister. It's been so many years, why so formal now?"

The palace-robed woman said softly, "I was young then, unaware of propriety and courtesy. Besides, you have now attained Feathered Ascension, while this humble one is still at Golden Core. Our realms differ…"

Bai Qingcheng looked at her with slight displeasure. Sensing the True-Person's dissatisfaction, the palace-robed woman's heart trembled, and only then, with a hint of timidity, she changed her address: "Elder sister…"

Only then did Bai Qingcheng's expression ease slightly, and she said with a smile, "That's better."

The palace-robed woman silently breathed a sigh of relief, and a bright smile surfaced on her dignified, resplendent face.

Bai Qingcheng studied her features and sighed, "In the end, you've married and had children, your countenance has grown fuller. Not like back then, when you were still a slender girl."

The palace-robed woman's cheeks flushed slightly, and she said with playful reproach, "Elder sister is teasing me again."

Bai Qingcheng then took her arm and said, "This isn't the place to talk."

The palace-robed woman nodded and said, "Elder sister, please follow me."

Thereafter, the palace-robed woman gently supported Bai Qingcheng by the arm and led her along the jade terraces and gemstone platforms, toward the exit of Cloud Mooring Shore.

Though she now addressed Bai Qingcheng as elder sister, so many years had passed, and she was no longer the naive young girl she once was. She knew full well the vast gap in status and cultivation between the two former sisters. Thus, she dared not show the slightest negligence—even the way she held Bai Qingcheng's arm was careful and deliberate, afraid that any hint of presumption might displease this elder sister of the Bai Clan.

The passage of Cloud Mooring Shore was reserved for the most distinguished guests. Paved with jade and engraved with cloud rune-patterns, the spirit terrace was carved with landscapes and scenic vistas. Walking through it, every step revealed a new view, a feast for the eyes.

The palace-robed woman held Bai Qingcheng's arm, and as they walked, she made idle conversation: "Elder sister is always busy with important matters, what brings you to Houtu City so suddenly?"

Bai Qingcheng's gaze flickered slightly. After a moment's thought, she said, "I came to see Zixi."

Understanding dawned in the palace-robed woman's heart, and her brows curved with a gentle smile as she said softly, "Zixi is just like you, elder sister, beautiful as an immortal, with flawless talent, a pure and otherworldly temperament, and diligent in cultivation. Truly the most perfect child in this world. Like innate jade, not a single flaw to be found. It's truly enviable… I imagine only you in all the world could have the fortune to bear such an impeccable child."

Though these words carried a hint of flattery, they were for the most part true.

Moreover, she was praising the daughter Bai Qingcheng cherished like a pearl in her palm. Even the cold-hearted Bai Qingcheng felt a warmth in her heart, and she squeezed the palace-robed woman's hand, sighing, "After all these years, your tongue is still so pleasing."

Only then did the palace-robed woman relax and smile with greater ease.

"However…" Bai Qingcheng seemed to think of something, and her gaze turned cold, her expression growing distant.

The palace-robed woman read her expression and immediately withdrew her smile, composing her features as she asked cautiously, "Elder sister Bai, has something happened?"

Bai Qingcheng was silent, pondering for a moment, then glanced at the palace-robed woman before her and said, "It's nothing, just…"

A cold glint flashed through Bai Qingcheng's eyes as she said slowly, "Someone… has been whispering in the Grand Matriarch's ear, saying that Zixi has been behaving improperly, keeping a wild man hidden away in the minor blessed land"

At these words, the palace-robed woman's expression changed in shock, her face turning deathly pale.

The Grand Matriarch, Zixi, keeping a wild man... these were all taboo subjects. To be caught up in such matters, to stir up trouble, would likely end in utter ruin. The palace-robed woman's heart churned with fear and unease, and she said not a word.

But Bai Qingcheng looked at her and asked, as if casually, "Good sister, Houtu City has a piece of land belonging to your family. Have you heard anything about Zixi's affairs?"

The palace-robed woman's face turned pale.

She bit her lip lightly before lowering her gaze demurely and speaking quietly, "This must be someone jealous of Sister, spreading rumors and stirring up trouble.

Zixi's temperament is famously well-behaved and worry-free, how could she possibly do something so outrageous?

Besides, Sister knows well that with Zixi's bloodline... even if one were to keep a lover hidden in a golden house, it would be a young maiden, never a man...

At the very least, I, as your younger sister, have been managing various clan affairs in Houtu City, and I have never heard such idle gossip..."

The palace-robed woman spoke softly.

Bai Qingcheng's expression relaxed slightly upon hearing this, and she asked again, "Sister, have you truly never heard anything?"

The palace-robed woman sighed and said earnestly, "How could I deceive Sister? I truly have never heard any rumors about Zixi."

Even if she had heard such deadly gossip, she would never let it pass her lips. Otherwise, if the Grand Matriarch flew into a rage and punished collectively, who knew who would suffer.

Seeing Bai Qingcheng's calm gaze, seemingly half-convinced, the palace-robed woman sighed and furrowed her brows with concern, saying, "Zixi has always been excellent, the most worry-free of all... But my Zhenlong cannot compare. Especially her marriage, it truly worries me to no end."

As expected, Bai Qingcheng's attention was diverted.

Both being mothers, they naturally cared about their daughters' marriages, and she could well sympathize.

Bai Qingcheng asked, "I would have forgotten if you hadn't mentioned it. Who has that girl Zhenlong been betrothed to?"

The palace-robed woman seemed to want to speak but hesitated, finally sighing, "It's not yet finalized, but judging by the Ancestor's intentions, she will likely be... betrothed to that one from the Earth Sect."

Bai Qingcheng frowned upon hearing this. "Is your clan's Ancestor losing their wits? No matter how blinded by greed, one cannot mismatch couples so recklessly."

The palace-robed woman was startled, her palms sweating with fright.

This Sister Bai of hers had always been extraordinary, daring to speak ill of the Ancestor. But she dared not echo such words, and could only smile bitterly with a pounding heart.

Bai Qingcheng shook her head and said no more. Each person had their own fate; other clans' marriage arrangements were not hers to meddle in. Even she herself had not been able to decide her own marriage back then, let alone these younger sister who could only rely on their clans.

The atmosphere between the two grew somewhat heavy. Seeing that they were about to reach the end of the road, the palace-robed woman said, "Since Sister has come from afar, why not rest at the Lu Clan first? I can host a welcome banquet for you, fulfill my duties as host, and reminisce about old times."

Bai Qingcheng shook her head. "No need."

The palace-robed woman looked somewhat disappointed.

Bai Qingcheng looked at her, her tone softening, "I know you mean well, but I must first go see Zixi."

Bai Qingcheng's gaze was penetrating, and she smiled enigmatically. "It's been so many years since we last met. You've grown considerably, you now know which words not to speak aloud. There must be something wrong with Zixi's matter, and you know to keep it from me, not daring to speak recklessly."

The palace-robed woman was startled and said in a fluster, "Sister, I—"

Bai Qingcheng patted her hand and shook her head. "Say no more. You have your difficulties, and I understand."

The palace-robed woman lowered her gaze, somewhat moved inside.

Bai Qingcheng said, "Some things, I must see for myself. Hearing is believing only when the eyes confirm it."

As they spoke, the two had already reached the end of the Cloud Mooring Path. Bai Qingcheng said, "You should return now. If you have time, I will come find you for tea and old times."

Her words were cool, yet carried an air that brooked no refusal. The palace-robed woman dared not defy her, releasing Bai Qingcheng's arm and offering a graceful bow. "Yes, Sister."

Bai Qingcheng nodded slightly, then stepped lightly. Her figure drifted ethereally like a glass flower blooming, and she vanished. Behind her, the three white-robed maidservants in white jade attire gradually faded from sight as well.

Only the palace-robed woman remained, standing frozen in place, gazing at the spot where Bai Qingcheng had disappeared. A flicker of envy passed through her eyes, along with an indescribable complexity...

...

Before long, upon Little Luan Mountain Blessed Land. Bai Qingcheng's figure materialized, seeming both real and illusory.

She had not notified anyone in advance.

Instead, she employed her clan's secret Feathered Ascension Escape Technique, passing directly through Houtu City's Flying Heaven Restriction and descending upon Little Luan Mountain.

She wanted to see with her own eyes whether the rumors at the Grand Matriarch's place were true, whether Zixi had truly done something outrageous.

And the moment Bai Qingcheng descended upon Little Luan Mountain Blessed Land, her invisible Feathered Ascension Divine Sense swept forth like a tsunami, perceiving every detail within the minor blessed land with perfect clarity.

Almost at the same instant, Bai Qingcheng's expression changed drastically.

For she truly detected a strange aura within Little Luan Mountain Blessed Land.

Hidden, profound, cold and crisp, somewhat unusual, but unmistakably, it was the aura of a man.

In Little Luan Mountain, where strangers were unwelcome, cut off from the world, and peaceful without worry... a man was truly hidden there!

Bai Qingcheng's beautiful face turned icy cold, fury blazing in her eyes.

That little girl Zixi... she truly had audacity beyond measure!! How dare she betray all the painstaking efforts Bai Qingcheng had invested in her, and betray the Grand Matriarch's expectations?!

"I want to see... which wild man has Zixi hiding in her room... truly... seeking death..."

Bai Qingcheng gritted her teeth, murderous intent flashing in her eyes. Then her form dissolved into feather-like spiritual qi, vanishing without a trace.

The moment Bai Qingcheng's divine-sense swept over Little Luan Mountain.

Mo Hua, who was sketching a formation in the guest room, suddenly felt a shocking killing intent and his expression shifted.

This killing intent was not the strongest he had ever faced in his life. But in terms of cause and effect, it pressed down like a mountain, carrying an oppressive weight he could not resist.

There was even a strange sense of familiarity.

"Who?"

Mo Hua's pupils contracted. As he hesitated in alarm, he sensed that the formless killing intent had somehow pierced straight through the barrier of Little Luan Mountain, drawing closer and closer, arriving at his side in the blink of an eye.

Mo Hua rose abruptly and looked behind him. In the empty room, white ripples began to spread.

Then a figure in glazed-white robes, half-real and half-illusory, emerged behind Mo Hua, carrying a killing intent so thick it nearly congealed the air.

"Feathered Ascension"

Mo Hua's pupils shook, golden light condensing in his eyes as his Tàixu Divine-Sense Thought began to take the form of a sword, its edge gleaming.

The last remaining Straw-Dog was clutched tightly in his palm.

But just as Mo Hua, with Dao-Transformed Golden Light in his eyes and his divine-sense sword about to leave its sheath, caught a glimpse of this True-Person's face from the corner of his eye, his pupils contracted, and his mouth slowly fell open.

Meanwhile, as Bai Qingcheng descended, her ice-jade eyes swept across the room and also saw the appearance of this 'wild man' that Zixi had been keeping.

The first thing she saw was a youth of pure spirit and refined bone, with a face of breathtaking beauty, like a celestial being.

Bai Qingcheng's heart trembled at first, thinking to herself that with such beauty, no wonder Zixi had been moved by mortal feelings and done such a thing as 'hiding a beauty behind golden walls.' But precisely because of this, the youth was doomed to die.

Cultivators must never be led astray by beauty.

Yet when she looked a second time, an inexplicable dread rose in her heart. She felt that this handsome youth was extraordinarily dangerous.

If she struck to kill him, she would surely suffer backlash, leaving endless troubles behind. Especially those eyes, they seemed... not the eyes of a 'human'?

Bai Qingcheng's instincts screamed a warning, and her killing intent slowed by half a beat. Thus, she took a third look.

At this third glance, she suddenly froze. The youth's brow and eyes seemed strangely familiar... They looked almost like...

The killing intent on Bai Qingcheng's face dissolved, replaced by stunned disbelief.

Her cold features were filled with incredulity:

"...Mo Hua?!"

The wild man Zixi had been keeping... was actually... Mo Hua?

Mo Hua was equally stunned. When he had deduced cause and effect earlier, he had foreseen that a 'great figure' would descend. This great figure was terrifying, likely to bring him harm.

But he had never imagined that this great figure would turn out to be Little Senior Sister's mother... his own...

Martial aunt?

(End of chapter)