Chapter 187 – A Warning from the Peak

Three hours were neither long nor short.

Ye Kuang utilized this time to fully channel his explosively increased True Qi into his Dantian.

The moment he stood up, he finally realized one of the terrifying abilities of the Jade Void Creation Art—it was like an energy absorption technique that could forcibly seize others’ cultivation and convert it for one’s own use.

At the same time, the Elder opened his eyes and glanced over, smiling as he asked, “All done?”

“Hah…” Ye Kuang slowly exhaled the turbid air from his mouth upon hearing this, then similarly smiled. “Originally, it would have taken only an hour, but I spent extra time purifying the True Qi.”

At this point, he couldn’t help but turn his gaze to the four Dao Inquiry Realm experts and over a dozen Innate Elders ahead, inexplicably feeling a surge of fighting spirit.

The earlier desperate situation had seemed brief, yet it felt like dancing on the edge of a blade.

It could be said that if the Elder hadn’t intervened in time, he might have truly died without even knowing how.

Thinking of this, Ye Kuang couldn’t help but feel a wave of killing intent toward everyone except Leng Qianxun.

Unexpectedly, the Elder, seeing this, suddenly slapped him.

“Forgotten the pain once the wound healed, have you? Let’s go! I sought you out today for an important matter.”

Hearing this, Ye Kuang rubbed his sore head and couldn’t help but show a wronged expression.

“Ah, right!” Just as the Elder was walking forward, as if recalling something important, he suddenly turned back and said, “I nearly forgot to mention—this time, I’m acting on someone’s behalf to give a reminder to all of you present.”

At this, the Elder’s gaze suddenly sharpened, his expression turning stern as he coldly stated, “When the faith in your hearts becomes slightly distorted, remember this: no matter where you are, no matter your circumstances, and no matter who stands behind you, always remember the blood flowing within you—its origin, its land, and the lineage it represents!”

White-Brow couldn’t help but frown tightly upon hearing this, clearly displeased.

The Elder paid no heed and continued calmly, “Those without faith in their hearts are like walking corpses. They may appear glorious, but in truth, they are merely shells that calculate gains and losses, having lost their original form.”

As he spoke, the Elder couldn’t help but glance back at Ye Kuang, his gaze softening.

Elder White-Brow: “Your Excellency, what do you mean by this? Are you implying that our faith is dead? Hahaha… What a ridiculous joke.”

As he spoke, White-Brow’s fists clenched slightly, as if somewhat indignant.

In response, the Elder cast a calm yet icy gaze around at the crowd and said indifferently, “Whether your faith is dead or not, I do not know, nor do I care to find out. But what I wish to tell you is this: ‘Born of the same root, why such urgency to torment one another?'”

Then, his tone shifted to one of bone-chilling coldness as he continued, “What you rely on is merely the power in your hands. Once you lose it, you may become nothing. Without even mentioning how unpredictable grievances can be, you might even lose the right to return to your roots in the end!”

Upon hearing this, White-Brow’s hands clenched into fists, as if he had finally realized the Elder’s true identity.

However, Elder White-Brow was deeply unwilling and let out a mocking laugh. “Thank you for the reminder, but there’s no need for Your Excellency to concern yourself with this!”

In contrast, Leng Qianxun, standing to the side, trembled inexplicably upon hearing these words.

It was only at this moment that she realized the present was not the past—this was no longer an era of chaotic dynastic transitions.The martial world had long become a relic of the past in name only. If these so-called martial artists were to stir up trouble again, they would have to face the colossal machinery of the modern era. By then, they would confront the wrath of the dragon.

Noticing the situation, the Elder suddenly asked, “What do you all think of me?”

The Tall-and-Fat Elder retorted, “What do you mean?”

Hearing this, the Elder smiled with an air of profound mystery. “Perhaps it seems unbelievable. In this day and age, how could I still reach the Dao Inquiry Ultimate? Let me tell you—superficial appearances and inner truths must never be confused. A fierce tiger isn’t built in a day, and ants aren’t known for mere survival.”

As his words fell, the Elder gazed toward the horizon, where the vast heavens met the earth, and declared bluntly, “Only with the heart of a fierce tiger can one decide victory from a thousand miles away. The ambition of ants is nothing but clinging to life. Yet in certain circumstances, humans are the same—one must remain low-key when necessary. Never think that a little skill grants you the right to act recklessly!”

While speaking, the Elder couldn’t resist adding, “Because, mark my words, heaven sees all that humans do!”

The Short-and-Thin Elder snapped, “Your Excellency, your martial arts may be astounding, but do you truly believe your Dao Inquiry Peak cultivation alone can threaten us?!”

The Elder replied, “Not at all, not at all! I am not threatening you—I am warning you!!”

“You!” Elder White-Brow’s hair fluttered as if blown by his rage, his beard bristling—clearly infuriated.

The Tall-Fat and Short-Thin Elders had veins bulging on their foreheads, visibly seething with anger.

It could be said that the three of them had never endured such humiliation. The shame of this day would likely be etched into their memories for a lifetime.

The Elder said, “I’ve said all I need to. You’d best tread carefully!”

With that, the Elder slapped his thigh again and shouted, “Let’s go.”

“Ouch…” Ye Kuang clutched his head and hurried after the Elder down the mountain.

By now, the chaos at the foot of the mountain had settled. Monk Wuxin wiped his forehead and sat to the side, muttering under his breath.

But when Wuxin caught sight of the elusive Elder again, he instantly shrank like a mouse spotting a cat.

Ye Kuang asked, “Hey… little monk, what’s wrong with you?”

Hearing this, Wuxin stared at the retreating figure descending the mountain and said with lingering fear, “Little Ye, you better be careful! That old man is incredibly strong!”

As he spoke, Wuxin revealed a trace of fear for the first time.

Seeing this, Ye Kuang couldn’t help but chuckle. Lowering his voice, he lectured, “Little monk, a fierce tiger isn’t built in a day, and ants aren’t known for mere survival. As humans, we must harbor the heart of a fierce tiger. Think about it—when you’re old and gray, you too can become as terrifyingly strong as him.”

After saying this, he gestured with his chin toward the Elder’s retreating back.

Wuxin protested, “Wait, since when did you become so profound? I’d never believe those words came out of your mouth even if you beat me to death.”

His tone carried obvious skepticism.

Seeing that look, Ye Kuang flew into a rage and swatted him on the head.

A sneak attack!

Smack!

Caught off guard, Wuxin took the hit squarely on his forehead. Fuming, he cursed, “You… damn it… pah! Are you asking for a beating, you brat?”Upon hearing this, Ye Kuang couldn’t help but let out a hearty laugh. He naturally clasped his hands behind his back, imitating the manner of someone profound, and said calmly, “Not at all, not at all. This isn’t me being reckless—I’m actually warning you. Don’t think that just because you have some skills, you can do as you please. Remember, heaven sees everything people do. Please take care of yourself…”

As soon as the words left his mouth, he had already vanished without a trace.

He had clearly followed closely behind the Elder, leaving only the bewildered young monk Wuxin on the spot, secretly pursing his lips in disbelief.