Chapter 461

Chapter 461: Arrival at Kunlun

Several days later, Fang Lie and Mo Qianxun reached Kunlun Mountain.

The vast Kunlun stretched endlessly across millions of miles. In ancient times, the Kunlun Sect originated here but later split into East Kunlun and West Kunlun due to differing cultivation philosophies.

East Kunlun centered around the sword, embracing the belief that "with a blade in hand, one commands the world." Practitioners devoted their entire lives to mastering their life-bound flying sword.

West Kunlun, however, focused on Dao magic, pursuing harmony with nature. They excelled in Five Elements Dao magic, celestial arts, and secret divination techniques, unmatched by any other sect.

Though divided, the Two Kunlun Sects maintained cordial relations. They often acted in unison, upholding their shared heritage. Together, they wielded immense influence among the righteous sects. East Kunlun’s status as a leader owed much to West Kunlun’s unwavering support.

Having long heard of these sects, Fang Lie was struck by their stark differences upon arrival.

West Kunlun’s territory brimmed with lush greenery, crystal waters, and palaces gleaming in magnificent and dazzling splendor. Auspicious beasts roamed freely while immortal birds sang—a true Immortal Realm.

East Kunlun, however, presented a harsh landscape: snow-capped peaks, jagged rocks, murky streams, and sparse forests laced with poison. Cultivators dwelled in simple caves rather than grand structures.

Noticing Fang Lie’s astonishment, Mo Qianxun chuckled, "East Kunlun’s ‘sword maniacs’ believe luxury weakens resolve. They deliberately train in these barren lands to sharpen their minds and blades."

Fang Lie frowned. "Though I bear revenge for my father’s murder against them, I must respect their discipline. Such conditions forge terrifying willpower and sword skills—no wonder their combat power is feared."

"Yet they still rely on tools," Mo Qianxun retorted. "In life-and-death struggles, our Mo Sect disciples’ treasures prevail. East Kunlun suffers heavy losses in Secret Realms and jianghu conflicts, while we endure the least."

Suddenly, Mo Qianxun glanced ahead, surprised. "The Sword God usually waits at Kunlun Sword Palace’s gates. Today, he’s traveled thousands of miles to greet us. Impatience stirs them."

"Impatience for what?" Fang Lie asked.

"Your treasures," Mo Qianxun replied. "They yearn to reclaim East Kunlun’s artifacts you hold, yet the blood feud complicates matters. Hence, this overture to mend ties."

"Enough talk," Mo Qianxun said. "They approach. Let’s meet them."

With a flash, they exited the Glorious Heavenly Palace. A Semi-Immortal’s power allowed Mo Qianxun to precisely time their arrival. Simultaneously, the Sword God and hundreds of sword cultivators materialized before them, blades sheathed.

"Such honor to be welcomed by esteemed elders!" Mo Qianxun greeted politely.

"The Mo Sect Leader’s visit merits our presence," the Sword God replied lightly. "Moreover, this youth retrieved treasures from the Ghost Realm Sect—a feat worthy of respect." His gaze softened as he studied Fang Lie, extending an unspoken olive branch.

Fang Lie coldly interrupted, "Save your flattery. Until my father’s murder is avenged, East Kunlun reclaims nothing."

The Sword God’s face hardened. Murderous intent rippled through his entourage, though none dared draw blades here.

Mo Qianxun sighed. "Dao Brother, the boy speaks rashly. Pay him no mind."

"Indeed," the Sword God stiffly replied. "Others await. Let us proceed."

With that, Mo Qianxun and Fang Lie followed the Sword God into the skies.

The Glorious Heavenly Palace followed behind, naturally guided to its landing spot by designated personnel.

Semi-Immortals moved with astonishing speed. Within mere breaths, the group arrived at East Kunlun’s mountain gate—the Kunlun Sword Palace.

This black fortress stood atop a towering peak spanning thousands of acres. Entirely constructed from Fourth-Rank steel essence without divine patterns, every inch bore the corrosion of Sword Energy, making the entire palace radiate sharp, chilling intent.

Ordinary Cultivators couldn’t approach. Even Fang Lie, with his strength, strained against the pervasive Sword Energy. Without the Nirvana Healing Technique’s protection, he wouldn’t have dared linger here—a single day could inflict incurable heavy injuries.

Though fearsome in appearance, the interior proved magnificent and dazzling with luxurious decor.

As East Kunlun’s headquarters representing sect prestige, it couldn’t afford to look shabby.

Following Mo Qianxun and Sword God through winding corridors, Fang Lie eventually reached an ornate conference hall.

Spanning a hundred yards, it had beast pelts carpeting the floor and grand White Jade thrones. Comparing this opulence to the barren mountains outside, Fang Lie struggled to believe this was East Kunlun’s base.

Six figures already occupied eight White Jade seats—four monks and two Taoists.

Sword God gestured before taking the central seat, while Mo Qianxun settled at the Taoists’ end.

Once seated, all eyes locked onto Fang Lie.

Every leader of the Eight Righteous Sects was a Semi-Immortal. Their meeting excluded even Thunder Tribulation Immortals. Yet here stood Fang Lie—a mere Qi Sea level youth—boldly entering this sanctum.

Fang Lie wasn’t stupid. This setup clearly revolved around him. Without those treasures in hand, he’d never have qualified to attend.

Originally, this gathering of righteous sect leaders aimed to address the Little Demon Chamber incident, forcing East Kunlun to compensate others’ losses.

But Fang Lie’s sudden emergence overshadowed Sword God, making him the meeting’s focal point.

The treasures retrieved from Ghost Realm Sect included each sect’s inherited treasured items—irreplaceable relics. News from Mo Qianxun had jolted all Semi-Immortals into early attendance, scheming how to reclaim their treasures without losing face.

After lengthy discussions, their plan amounted to threats and bribes. They’d even sent Sword God to greet Fang Lie personally, granting maximum respect.

Yet Fang Lie’s stubbornness defied expectations. He’d bluntly refused to humor the world’s strongest swordsman.

Sword God’s darkened expression told everyone their scheme had failed, leaving bitter frustration.

Mo Qianxun saw through everything but stayed silent, privately amused. Feigning ignorance, he solemnly addressed Fang Lie: "Come, let me introduce these esteemed figures."

"This is Sect Leader of the Xuan Sect—Immortal Qingxu!" Mo Qianxun indicated a Taoist with Immortal-Style Appearance.

"Greetings, Sect Leader." Fang Lie nodded politely.

"Excellent!" Immortal Qingxu smiled warmly.

Mo Qianxun proceeded to name each Semi-Immortal:

West Kunlun’s Sect Leader—kind-faced Immortal Lan Shan.

Great Thunder Sound Temple’s Abbot—slender, handsome monk Bai Quan.

Lotus Dharma Sect’s Abbot—portly Master Da Fang.

Putuo Temple’s Abbot—diminutive dark monk De Fang.

Great Compassion Temple’s Abbot—wizened, drowsy monk Bei Lian.

With East Kunlun’s Sword God and Mo Sect’s Mo Qianxun, these comprised the Eight Righteous Sects’ leaders.

Fang Lie gave curt nods to others, expression frosty.

Despite his open hostility, the Semi-Immortals showed no displeasure—only internal sighs.

They deserved this. Though publicly blaming Fang Gang’s death on his incompetence to protect sect reputation, everyone knew he’d been framed.

No amount of slander changed that truth. How could they expect warmth from the son of the man they’d killed? These Semi-Immortals weren’t deluded—they understood perfectly.

After introductions, Mo Qianxun closed his eyes, feigning meditation. All recognized the Old Fox’s refusal to participate further.

Yet the Semi-Immortals balked at begging a Junior. As they hesitated, Immortal Qingxu smiled and broke the silence:

"Fang Lie, I hear you recovered our Xuan Sect’s Taiyi Qingxu Cauldron from Ghost Realm Sect. Is this true?"

"Yes." Fang Lie produced the cauldron without preamble. "This was retrieved from Ghost Realm Sect."

Fang Lie treated Xuan Sect differently. During the Great War, they’d only sent outer disciples who’d opposed Dark River Divine Sword’s strategy and advocated rescuing Fang Gang. Though powerless, their stance earned Fang Lie’s gratitude—he never counted Xuan Sect among his enemies.