The Great Martial Saint!

Chapter 1004 Returning to Beishan, Invitation to the Grand Ceremony

"The mountains and rivers are vast, and the green hills remain."

In the vast expanse of clouds, Chen Ping'an, dressed in a light blue robe with two scabbards at his waist, stood on a flying boat, his expression carefree and indifferent, exuding an indescribable aura.

This trip to Bicang lasted for several months in total.

Over the past few months, he has made great progress and achieved considerable success, making his trip worthwhile.

Chen Ping'an gently stroked his hand, glancing at the sword at his waist, its dark and deep color carrying a faint chilling aura.

Heavenly Meteor Frost Blade!

The blade possesses extraordinary power, its sharpness capable of breaking through fourth-order restraints. Furthermore, it exudes a frosty aura, which can be used to wear down true essence and obscure the soul during combat.

All items have been upgraded to the level of exquisite and precious treasures.

This is enough for him to use openly for a long time.

Regarding the matter of the Prince of Bicang's mansion, he gained many benefits from Ji Qingyu and Ji Shulan. In the final game, he even obtained the Biling Heart Sutra, luck and opportunities, as well as all kinds of resources and spiritual items from the Prince of Bicang.

In addition, they also accepted a Celestial Master cultivator.

Chen Ping'an did not collect too many of the items from Baosha Sanren. Firstly, he was not very interested in these items, and secondly, given his situation, there was no need for them.

With the magic of the precious sand and the mental restriction, it was already beyond expectations and well worth the price.

If you want the horse to run fast and be good, how can you not let it eat grass?

Although he didn't offer any additional benefits, he could still do this basic thing. In doing so, he could greatly gain Baosha Sanren's trust.

Now that he's gone to Chixiao, who knows what surprises Baosha will bring him when they meet again?

Chen Ping'an's emotions shifted as he looked down at the sky, a sense of vastness filling his mind.

This is a feeling that can only be experienced by observing the vastness of heaven and earth and the immensity of the world.

"A glorious era."

Chen Ping'an's expression was calm, but there was an indescribable tremor in his eyes.

The fourth-tier flying boat was extremely fast. Even though Chen Ping'an intentionally controlled it and focused on cultivation, he returned to Beishan Pass in less than half a month.

However, given his current apparent cultivation level, this speed of escape is not a problem.

With the speed of a celestial being, if one goes all out, even while considering endurance, crossing a state in a day is indeed not a difficult task.

For someone like Bao Sha Sanren, a major cultivator, it's common for him to traverse an entire region in just a few days.

Given Chen Ping'an's true speed, it would probably only take him two or three days to travel from Bicang to Beishan and back.

Unfortunately, the extraordinary bloodline and golden fire wings cannot be used for extended periods. They are only suitable for traveling and can only be used as a trump card in battle.

If Yin Yu Bone Wings were to return, that would be perfect.

Driven by precious treasures, their speed of escape is absolutely astonishing.

Chen Ping'an was also quite looking forward to the effects of the refined and modified version.

Given the status and position of the Heavenly Luo Saintess, the Heavenly Luo Sect's efforts should not disappoint him.

After all, this matter is different from the Bone Puppet incident; he had to make a promise and use his personal connections to get someone to help him.

He couldn't let his favor, which he had promised, go to waste.

Returning to Beishan, the Beishan Pass remains unchanged.

Due to the previous beast tide, commerce at Beishan Pass is much more prosperous than before. Many caravans and cultivators remain here, lingering without leaving.

Even more cultivators flocked to the area, some to adventure in the Black Nether Mountains, others to make a living, and still others to seek opportunities for cultivation.

Chen Ping'an's return did not cause much of a stir in Beishan Pass.

At his current level, his every move is completely separate from ordinary living beings, and their lives are clearly distinct. Barring unforeseen circumstances, his name will often only appear in legends.

Martial arts masters, in the eyes of ordinary mortals, are like immortals. They are usually elusive, appearing only briefly and never returning. Even someone of the size of Beishan Daguan is no exception.

Compared to the Celestials, the Pseudo-Celestials are much more active and are the true mainstream among the strong in Beishan Pass.

Chen Ping'an's return was quite quiet, but as time went on, many forces began to understand its significance.

"The garrison commander is back!"

Those in power were visibly tense and a sense of awe.

"Mangdao"

"I'm back from Bicang!"

Many people from various factions have been paying close attention to this matter. By now, the news of the rise and fall of the old Bicang Prince and the succession of the young Bicang Princess Ji Qingyu to the throne has also reached this place.

Among the various reports, the name of Chen Ping'an, the "Reckless Blade," also circulated and appeared in the conversations of others.

Mang Dao Chen Ping'an expressed his support for Princess Ji Shulan of Bicang to ascend to the position of Prince.

Within the vast and turbulent landscape of Bi Cang, he displayed his influence. This level of influence was beyond the comprehension of ordinary cultivators or even powerful forces.

This is the pinnacle of this territory, a true tycoon of the land.

Judging from the ending alone

Lord Chen's situation doesn't seem so ideal.

Princess Ji Shulan of Bicang ultimately failed to ascend the throne. The successor was beyond everyone's expectations: Princess Ji Qingyu of Bicang inherited the title of Prince.

Under such circumstances, Chen Ping'an, who had previously strongly supported Ji Shulan's succession, will likely be affected to some extent.

Once the power transition at the Bicang Prince's Mansion is stable, Chen Ping'an will likely not get any advantage there, especially from Ji Qingyu.

The only saving grace is that, despite the previous power struggles and differing stances, Chen Ping'an did not actually take any action, which ensures that he will not be implicated in the subsequent reckoning.

But whether or not they are affected, it is clearly unlikely that they can form any good relationships or gain any respectability.

After all, common sense dictates that no one would have any goodwill toward a competitor's supporters.

Speaking of which, Ji Qingyu has really kept his true intentions hidden. I wonder what trump card he used to turn the tide in one fell swoop.

Beishan's trade network connects both domestic and international markets, and its information network is extremely efficient. Although not much time has passed since the situation in Bi Cang was settled, the people of Beishan have already received various reports and are discussing the matter extensively.

However, those who can discuss this matter within Beishan Pass are not ordinary people; they are at least Grandmasters or similar figures, who can truly access such information and have come into contact with such circles.

During the discussion, the group also mentioned Ji Xuanmo, Ji Shulan, Ji Dongqing, and others. They were not entirely clear about the inside story of the day of the power struggle for the throne.

But judging from the results, there are clearly too many things for them to imagine.

There is still so much information worth sharing and analyzing.

Many people sigh when Ji Shulan is mentioned. Although both are women, they undoubtedly have a higher opinion of Ji Shulan compared to Ji Qingyu.

But unfortunately...

Someone sighed softly.

However, since these were sensitive matters, the people present did not discuss them much.

The conversation then subtly shifted to a more sensitive level, mentioning that the reason Ji Qingyu was chosen to succeed to the throne of the Prince was likely due to behind-the-scenes maneuvering.

The group exchanged glances, understanding each other without saying a word.

Since ancient times, when the ruler is weak, the ministers are strong. All the previous contenders for the throne have been eliminated, and the position of Prince has fallen into the hands of a young woman.

This Prince Bicang's mansion, I'm afraid...

The group discussed the topic, followed by a brief chat, and exchanged ideas in greater depth. During their conversation, they barely mentioned the word "puppet," without actually discussing it.

The northern mountains were bustling with activity. Eighteen garrison towns and a formidable fortress were bustling with activity, and all sorts of things were happening every day. Naturally, Chen Ping'an couldn't possibly pay attention to every single one of these events.

Given his current status, even if he notices it, he might not care.

Some things are secrets and important matters that others might consider worthy of extensive writing, discussion, and analysis. But for some, they are real experiences that have just happened.

While the discussions in Beishan were in full swing, he was in his spacious office at the Beishan Garrison Command, dealing with the official business that had piled up since his departure.

However, strictly speaking, while it is called handling official business, it actually means reviewing the important information and intelligence that should be categorized and organized from the cloud.

Some of these matters were already resolved, while others were preliminary plans or opinions that were originally intended to be implemented. However, since the adults were back, the decision on how to handle them naturally had to be made by him. Still others were important matters that had occurred during this period, which, after some sorting and analysis, were presented to Chen Ping'an.

Chen Pingan quietly flipped through the pages, and could feel the care put into them.

"Well done."

He gave Ying Congyun a word of encouragement.

"Thank you, sir."

Ying Congyun adopted a very proper posture, which could be said to be a complete acceptance of the superior-subordinate relationship between the two. With Chen Ping'an's current level of cultivation, although the information file presented was quite large, he still quickly finished reading it.

He gently put down the official letter in his hand and glanced at Ying Congyun in front of him.

hum~

A flash of light appeared in his mind, and a precious jade ruyi-shaped artifact appeared before Chen Ping'an.

Ying Congyun was overjoyed upon seeing this; his delight was palpable.

"Thank you for your guidance, sir."

Previously, during his trip to Bi Cang, Chen Ping'an had made an agreement with Ying Congyun, instructing him to properly handle the affairs of Beishan, and that upon his return, he could trade this item to Ying Congyun at a reasonable price.

Now is the time to keep our promise.

Ying Congyun had considered that Chen Ping'an would make a deal after his return, but he never expected that day would come so soon.

On the first day of Chen Ping'an's return to Beishan, he obtained the object he had longed for.

The Netherworld Secret Realm is about to open, and he urgently needs something to protect him.

The secret realm is extremely dangerous. Without exceptional skills, let alone finding opportunities, it's questionable whether one can even save their own life.

"Lord Chen, you are truly a man of your word. A gentleman's promise is priceless!"

Looking at the precious treasure he had just acquired through the transaction, Ying Congyun was overjoyed and his expression was excited.

He had witnessed the power of this treasure from afar. Although its quality was slightly flawed, its protective capabilities were still extremely impressive.

In addition, according to the usual schedule, it should be the day when the Netherworld Secret Realm opens. However, according to the news from Wentian City, there is no fluctuation of energy in the Netherworld Valley, so the secret realm has not yet truly opened.

In terms of time, it's more than enough. Enough for him to thoroughly refine this treasure before entering the secret realm.

"Your subordinate will never forget your kindness today."

Ying Congyun bowed solemnly.

Although he acquired the treasure through a transaction and even paid for it, there are some things he doesn't consider in that way.

Such a precious treasure cannot be acquired through mere trade without connections and channels.

Furthermore, judging from the transaction price, the master treated him quite well. This was clearly taken into consideration his current situation of accumulating resources and facing a shortage of funds.

"Alright, go down now," Chen Ping'an said softly, a faint smile on his face.

"Yes." Ying Congyun was in high spirits, bowed respectfully, and left the office.

After watching Ying Congyun leave, Chen Ping'an sensed the spiritual object in front of him with his divine sense and put it away.

These spiritual items are all resources traded from the Cloud Trade Center. Among them are some fourth-tier items, but most are just auxiliary materials of the same type, and their value is not particularly rare.

However, no matter how rare it is, it is still a fourth-tier item, and it should be useful in all kinds of transactions.

Even if it's just an extra treat, it's still a good reserve.

Ying Congyun is a good person. He has been doing his best these days and has maintained a proper attitude. A little support is nothing.

Not to mention, this was stated beforehand.

Throughout his cultivation, he has never broken a promise made in person.

"That settles one matter. What remains is Little Tianluo."

Chen Ping'an smiled gently and then turned his gaze to the letter on the side.

These are letters he sent during the period he was away from Beishan. Without his permission, no one else dared to look at them.

The letter contained hidden restrictions, which, while not particularly sophisticated, were not something that could be viewed at will.

To think that one could deceive a martial arts master is simply a pipe dream.

"Sent by the Azure Dragon."

Chen Ping'an narrowed his eyes slightly, opened the letter, and began to read it.

Upon seeing this, he looked somewhat surprised.

"The Gu family, the Celestial Ceremony? They've invited me to attend?"

The news of Gu Zhengnan's breakthrough had been circulating before. It was announced by the Gu family after he killed the young master of Gu Yue and was pressured by Gu Yue's power, indicating their intention to support him.

It's quite normal to hold a grand ceremony for the interaction between heaven and man these days.

The Martial Dao Celestial Being holds an extraordinary position, and the grand ceremony for the Celestial Being is held in accordance with the long-standing customs of the Azure Land.

If any faction produces a martial arts master, they will definitely make a big fuss about it to spread their influence.

Especially for those forces that are already weak and showing signs of decline, if a Celestial Being could emerge at this critical juncture, it would undoubtedly be a powerful boost to their morale.

According to the letter, the Gu family invited many forces to this Heavenly Ceremony, such as Hengshan Sect and Wenxin Sword Pavilion.

In addition, there are connections from various regions, as well as the lingering influence of Beihai, who will all be guests attending the ceremony.

Because of the wide range of influence invited, the Gu family intended to use this event to expand their influence, so they made ample preparations for the start time of this grand ceremony.

Although Chen Ping'an received the letter late, there was still plenty of time. He could even stay in Beishan Pass for a while without any problem.

However, Chen Ping'an did not hesitate.

"I'll take this opportunity to go back and take a look." Chen Ping'an's face showed a hint of anticipation, and his eyes revealed a touch of excitement.

"Previously, Gu Zhengnan intended to expand his influence and extend the Gu family's power to Beishan Pass. Now it's time to discuss that as well."

Being in the Gu family makes it easier to discuss many things. Any ideas can be decided at the same time.

However, this time when he went to the Gu family, his presence and status were different from before. There are probably quite a few people in the Gu family who will feel uncomfortable.

Many things may be unclear to outsiders, but as a member of the Gu family, he knows them perfectly well.

His engagement with Gu Qingcheng is now merely nominal; once the postponement period is finalized, the engagement will be officially cancelled.

Without the added advantage of being the son-in-law of the Gu family, he would appear before them as a supreme martial arts master.

Chen Ping'an, the Chief of the Northern Border Garrison and Acting Garrison Commander of the Northern Mountains, is a hidden dragon and a proud hero!

With such a high status and reputation, even if he is an elder, no one would dare to sit down if he did not take a seat!

Chen Ping'an chuckled lightly; he didn't care much about these things. However, he still hoped that all relationships would be fruitful from beginning to end.

No matter what, the Gu family had shown him great kindness, and this kindness should never be forgotten.

Regardless of how his relationship with Gu Qingcheng ultimately ends, the bond he has built with the Gu family along the way will not change.

However, while he could think these things through clearly, some of the elders in the Gu family might not be able to.

Especially those elders who had little prior contact with them.

Some things are one-sided for the strong; they can understand them because the decision-making power is in their hands.

But for others, it requires trembling and extreme caution.

The slightest mistake could lead to disaster.

"It would be inappropriate to set off immediately after returning to Beishan. The Gu family ceremony is still some time away, so I have plenty of time. I can settle in Beishan for a few days before leaving. With my speed of escape, I can reach Canglong in just a few days."

I've given them a few extra days, so I can go see them.

Scenes flashed through my mind, some frozen in time: a woman holding a long sword, a woman in a stunning palace dress, a fairy in a moon-white dress, like a celestial being descended from the moon, and a charming girl with a golden headband.

"Look at Wan Jun, look at Gu Qing Chan, see Gu Qing Cheng and then look at her again."

Xi Yue.

Chen Ping'an's thoughts shifted until they gradually subsided in his eyes.

His eyes narrowed, a clear light shimmering within them.

hum~

Inside the public housing, a spiritual light flickered, and a divine spirit stirred.

The True Scroll of Returning to the Origin.

+1! (End of Chapter)