The first stop was at Dragon Tiger Mountain's Heavenly Master Mansion. Inside the mansion, Phineas was startled by Chase's sudden appearance. It was not until he recognized Chase's face that he breathed a sigh of relief."I didn't expect you to actually win this battle, Master Collins. We've all benefited greatly from it," Phineas said, and he was not exaggerating.Originally, the Heavenly Master Mansion had dwindling numbers, but because of Chase's victory, many rogue cultivators now wanted to join them.Fortunately, the mansion would not accept just anyone. After a selection process, they only retained a few people.Most of these people were here because of Chase. His display of the Five-Thunder Technique was still vivid in their minds, and many sought to join the Heavenly Master Mansion to be associated with him.Chase understood this clearly but did not mind, especially since the Evil Slaying Sword had contributed greatly to the battle."Master James, here's your sword back,"
With Blake, a martial lord at the peak of his power, accompanying him, Chase not only returned to South River City within a day but also managed to appear in front of Julia before dinner.Chase had not informed Julia about the recent battle, not wanting to worry her with such matters.Chase briefly updated Julia on his sisters' situation and even met with Sam to settle everything before leaving for the Esoteric Medical Sect with Blake.The three traveled until they reached a mountain range devoid of any signs of human habitation. Just as Chase was about to express his curiosity about the location of the Esoteric Medical Sect, he saw Blake throw a token into the air.As the token inscribed with the word "Evans" flew into the sky, it caused ripples in the air. A portal's shadow slowly materialized, accompanied by an imposing aura."This is the entrance to our Esoteric Medical Sect. Without the token, even the strongest being won't be able to find our sect," Blake said proudly. He th
"What exactly is Elder Evans' role within the Esoteric Medical Sect?" Chase realized that he might have misunderstood. He thought that Blake was the sect master. Now, it seemed that it was not the case."Well, my master is essentially the sect's external envoy. The elders here don't handle affairs, and everything is managed by my master. However, he isn't the sect master because the Esoteric Medical Sect doesn't have one," Linus explained after some hesitation.Hearing this, Chase had some thoughts. Blake seemed like the chief steward of the sect. Chase wondered if the promises made to him would be honored.Nonetheless, since he was already there, he decided to take it one step at a time.As they continued their tour in silence, Chase refrained from asking questions since he did not know much. Linus was also preoccupied with his own thoughts. He was seemingly reflecting on his master's awkward position within the sect and grew more silent as they walked.They followed the stone pa
In the hall of the Esoteric Medical Sect, several elders were engaged in a heated debate.Leading them was a white-haired, youthful-looking elder who was staring intently at Blake."Elder Evans, I know you've been tirelessly working outside on behalf of the sect. Bringing in a Pill Refining Master from outside is one way to approach it, but outsiders will never be as reliable as our own. "Do you know that my disciple has already successfully refined a grade-seven pill? Just give him a bit more time and he'll surely become a true Pill Refining Master," the elder said."Hmph, just a single grade-seven pill? Is that even worth mentioning? Grade-seven pills are no big deal here. Everyone here can make them. Yet, who among us dares to call themselves a Pill Refining Master? "Elder Erwell, surely you know that to claim the title of Pill Refining Master, one must be able to refine pills of grade six or higher," Blake retorted, mocking Lundly Erwell for defending his disciple."Indeed,
"What’s this, Elder Erwell? You're unable to win the argument, so you're resorting to suppressing me with your cultivation?" Even Blake found it difficult to withstand the pressure.As the two stood off, a child's figure entered the hall. With the child's arrival, the oppressive force vanished. The elders' expressions changed as they hurriedly stood up and saluted."Greetings, Supreme Elder Phoenix!""Supreme Elder Phoenix, why have you come out?"The child before them was none other than the highest-ranking elder of the Esoteric Medical Sect."There's no need for formalities, everyone. If I hadn’t come out, you two might have torn down the Esoteric Medical Sect’s hall. Elder Evans, Elder Erwell, you’re both too old to be arguing so heatedly over such matters. "After all these years of friendship, is this necessary?" The voice emanating from the child's body was unexpectedly aged."Supreme Elder Phoenix, you must stand up for Floyd. You watched him grow up, and you know his tal
As the figure turned around, Livingston saw a soot-covered face. It was then that Livingston noticed several exploded pill furnaces scattered around Floyd. Clearly, Floyd had failed in refining pills again.Seeing Livingston notice the broken pill furnaces, Floyd felt embarrassed and awkwardly said, "Livingston, why aren’t you cultivating in your pavilion? What brings you here?"Livingston quickly averted his gaze and replied, "Floyd, I came specifically to tell you some news.""Go ahead.""Elder Evans brought back a Pill Refining Master from the mortal world.""What? Is this true?""It's true. I even saw the person myself. He's currently staying with that useless disciple of Elder Evans."Upon hearing the confirmation, Floyd's expression remained unchanged, though he kept a smile. "Alright, I understand. Thank you for letting me know, Livingston.""Well, I won't disturb you any further."Only after Livingston had exited the cave and walked far away did Floyd's expression dark
"Do you really have no idea who you're facing?" Floyd asked angrily, unleashing his aura as a marquis of martial arts toward Chase.Chase sensed it lightly. Floyd was merely a third-stage marquis.Ignoring the aura pressing toward him, Chase’s eyes turned cold as he repeated, "I do. You said your name is Floyd. Do you have any other business? If not, then leave. I need to cultivate."Hearing Chase's words, Floyd was momentarily infuriated but could not find a rebuttal. He was fuming with anger. However, Floyd did not lose his reason. Seeing that Chase was unaffected by his aura meant only one thing—Chase’s cultivation was likely higher than his own.Floyd suddenly felt a surge of regret. Had he not devoted so much time to pill refining, his cultivation would not be as it was now.Knowing that staying longer would only embarrass him, Floyd left with a dark expression."I warned you, and you didn't listen. Don't blame me for what happens next. You won't live to participate in the P
When did another space get unlocked?Chase felt like a failure as the owner of the Dragon Vein Secret Realm. How could he have not noticed such changes?With that thought, he appeared in the newly revealed space.It was the same mirror-like water surface, shrouded in mist. Chase called out loudly, "I know you’re here, sir. Show yourself. My name is Chase Collins, and I'm the current master of the Dragon Vein Secret Realm!"Perhaps Chase’s introduction worked as a light melded together in front of him, gradually forming into an old man with a slight hunch. He had a flask at his waist."Boy, with just your level of cultivation, how dare you appear before me? Aren't you afraid I'll kill you with a flick of my hand?" the old man’s gaze lingered on Chase as he said."Sir, if you really wanted to kill me, you wouldn’t have shown yourself," Chase replied with a smile."Hmph, if you’re wise, let me go now, or I’ll truly kill you," the old man retorted, his eyes never leaving Chase as he
"Fine! As long as you spare my life, I swear eternal loyalty to you. I'll serve as your slave or servant if that's what it takes!" Luis declared without hesitation. He knew too well that if he refused, death would be his only outcome.Luis was not afraid of dying—he simply could not accept defeat. A lifetime of prestige was ruined in an instant."I, Luis Hawkins, swear to the heavens that I'll submit to Chase Collins and never betray him. Should I break this oath, I vow to meet a terrible end!" Luis raised his hand and spoke in a firm, resolute tone.Chase scoffed, his expression tinged with disdain. He had no intention of believing Luis, and the mockery in his eyes was evident. "Luis, you think I don't see through your games? Do you think I'm unaware that you're merely stalling for time?""H-How do you know that?" Luis narrowed his eyes, a murderous glint flashing within them.Chase chuckled coldly. "Luis, I've dealt with countless schemers and liars. Your petty tricks? They don'
"You can try," Chase said with a faint smile."You…" Luis was consumed with rage.Suddenly, a pitch-black spear shot out from the side. It was aimed directly at Chase.Chase's expression shifted. With a light tap of his toes on the ground, he leaped back several yards, creating distance between himself and the attacker."I see the Hawkinses really are cunning!" Chase's gaze turned icy. "But since you're so desperate to die, I'll gladly oblige."Sword energy erupted, sharp and unforgiving. A single flash pierced through the head of a guard."Y-You're breaking your word!" Luis roared, his face turning an ashen shade.He had planned to use the family members as leverage against Chase, but instead, Chase had struck preemptively."I won't lay a single finger on your family," Chase said coldly. "But as for the others... Don't blame me for what's about to happen."He stared at Luis, his expression devoid of emotion. "Do you really think I care about the Hawkinses' wealth? To me, your
Luis was utterly stunned upon hearing Chase's words. He had never imagined Chase's appetite would be so insatiable. He wanted the entirety of the Hawkins family's assets!"Mr. Collins, pardon me for being frank, but if it's money you want, the Hawkinses are not lacking in that. I can offer you five times the amount you desire," Luis said, attempting to negotiate.Chase chuckled. "Mr. Luis, you've misunderstood. Money means nothing to me." He then added while shaking his head, "I'm after more than just your resources. What truly interests me is the Hawkinses' forging techniques. Surrender those, and I might spare your life.""The forging techniques?!" Luis's eyes widened with disbelief. "Impossible! Absolutely impossible! The Hawkinses' ancestral rules strictly forbid passing those techniques to outsiders. We can only offer you finished products!"The forging techniques were a legacy painstakingly developed by generations of the Hawkinses' forebears. They were the family's lifeblo
"Young man—no, Mr. Collins—please, let's talk this through. There's no need for violence," Luis pleaded. His dignity as the head of the Hawkins family had all but vanished. The Hawkinses had been a cornerstone of Bactria, influencing its entire power structure. Now, however, Luis saw that everything could change with Chase. He needed to bring Chase to their side no matter what it took.After all, Chase's talent was extraordinary, and his potential for growth was limitless. If the Hawkinses could recruit him, they would gain a formidable martial arts saint. They could elevate their standing to unprecedented heights.Luis said, his face stretching into a fawning smile, "Mr. Collins, on behalf of the Hawkinses, I'm willing to compensate you with any resources you need. I can even offer you an entire mine to aid your refining pursuits.""You think I need your resources?" Chase scoffed, his tone dripping with mockery. "And from the Hawkinses? I doubt you can provide anything worthwhile
"What… What's happening? Why are these swords flying on their own? Such powerful sword energy! Are these... black iron swords?!"Everyone was stunned, their eyes wide with shock. The event unfolded so abruptly that none of the Hawkinses' guards could react in time.In an instant, countless black iron swords tore through the air, forming a dense cloud that surged toward the guards like a tidal wave."This is bad!" Luis roared in fury. "Block them!"A massive surge of energy exploded from him, forming a white fist aura that smashed into the incoming sword energy."Hmph! A mere insect of a martial arts saint dares to intercept my black iron swords? You people are courting death!" Chase sneered.With a wave of his right hand, the swarm of black iron swords merged into a single massive blade that slashed down toward Luis.A terrifying sword light split the air. Luis hastily countered with a punch, but it was not enough to escape unscathed. A gruesome gash tore across his chest, blood
"Reckless fools," Chase muttered coldly.He raised his hand and struck out, unleashing a golden palm strike that swept through the air like a tidal wave, enveloping a radius of dozens of feet. Everything in its path was utterly destroyed.The golden imprint descended, shattering every weapon it touched. Bones snapped, flesh tore, and blood splattered in all directions. The power of a single strike crushed everything in its wake."Run for your lives!""No…""Help me!"Agonized screams echoed through the air as bodies fell lifelessly to the ground.Luis' face turned ashen at the sight. He involuntarily stepped back while trembling. "You… Who are you?!"Chase did not bother to respond. Without sparing Luis another glance, he strode toward the Hawkinses' grand estate.It was a sprawling complex of magnificent architecture that exuded opulence and grandeur.Inside, the family members were already alerted to the attack. They had gathered in the main hall, and they whispered nervous
Despite his exhaustion, Zion pressed on as he was convinced that Chase would eventually falter."Seventh Form!" he roared, unleashing a blade strike that seemed to split the heavens and earth.Yet even as the towering blade descended, Chase remained unmoved. With hands clasped behind his back, he stood still and made no effort to dodge or block the attack.An arm fell to the ground, blood splattering everywhere.Zion's eyes widened in utter disbelief as he stared at the scene. His most powerful strike had severed an arm, but it was not Chase's."T-This can't be… H-How is this possible?" he stammered. Zion looked lost, unable to accept the reality before him."It doesn't make sense! How could you withstand my blade? This defies logic!" he muttered, his voice tinged with confusion and despair."You're just too weak," Chase replied calmly while casting a cold glance at Zion.Flicking his finger, Chase sent a pill into his mouth. The pill dissolved instantly, replenishing his deple
In an instant, a group of guards rushed forward to help the elderly man to his feet."Sir, are you all right?" they asked with concern.The old man clutched his swollen face while coughing up blood. His complexion was pale, and his breathing had turned weak. "This man's strength is extraordinary—likely at the late stage of the martial arts saint level. We can't defeat him. Summon the Council of Elders immediately!""Yes, sir!" The guards promptly obeyed and withdrew."You little brat! How dare you launch a sneak attack?!" Zion Hawkins, the second son of the Hawkinses, spat with venom as he glared at Chase."Save your words. If you hate me that much, then come at me," Chase replied indifferently.Zion, a mid-stage martial arts saint, stood flanked by more than ten early-stage martial arts saints and another dozen at mid-stage.Such a force could dominate most of Bactria, but to Chase, it was laughable at best."Arrogant fool! Prepare to die!""Raging Blade, Ninth Form!" Zion ro
Chase strolled toward the massive stone monument, his gaze fixed on the four bold words carved into it. "The Hawkinses' Secret Sect? Perhaps today is the day this name vanishes.""Hmm?" Chase suddenly paused, sensing two powerful auras converging from different directions."As expected of the Secret Sect—full of hidden talents," he muttered while shaking his head lightly. He did not appear surprised; he had already anticipated this scenario before arriving.The ground trembled violently, followed by a chorus of furious roars echoing through the air.From deep within Hawkins Residence, Chase sensed a massive number of disciples pouring out from a grand hall. These disciples, all of them martial arts legends or higher, radiated intense killing intent.Together, they were a formidable force capable of annihilating smaller sects and clans. Yet even their combined might could not withstand a single punch from Chase. Within moments, their resistance crumbled, leaving corpses strewn acro