Chapter 333 – With a Sharp Blade in Hand, Killing Intent Arises

What shattered Mu Lin’s tranquility was not the Southern Aristocracy’s disciples—or rather, they did not directly approach Mu Lin to coerce him into battling the Northern Aristocracy under the banner of righteousness. Instead, they chose to guide.

This storm initially brewed within Yuzhou City.

—Following Prince Liang and his associates’ deliberations, a series of reward and punishment measures were swiftly implemented in Yuzhou City.

Upon learning that defeat in battle might be excusable, but cowardice and reluctance to fight would result in the outright loss of identity, status, and resources, the Southern Aristocracy’s fervor for combat surged dramatically. In recent days, they had engaged in dozens of consecutive battles with the Northern scholars.

However, just as Prince Liang had previously stated, the gap between the Southern Prodigies and the Northern Prodigies was too vast—a disparity that courage alone could not bridge.

Faced with this dire situation, the South prepared two strategies. The first was to approach the Foreign Races, presenting them with the pros and cons and requesting an alliance.

“You are well aware of the North’s stance toward the Foreign Races—they would rather kill indiscriminately than spare any. If they gain control of the imperial court and formulate policies, all of you will face subjugation.”

This argument persuaded some of the Foreign Races. Even the Dragon Clan of the East Sea was swayed, showing signs of impending intervention.

While forging alliances with the Foreign Races, the Southern Aristocratic Families also undertook another task—glorifying Mu Lin.

Previously, Southern scholars who suffered defeat often fell into despair, despondency, and frustration.

Now, however, they no longer reacted this way. Under the guidance of many, defeated Southern scholars frequently used Mu Lin as a shield.

“You may have won now, but your arrogance is short-lived. Once Mu Lin emerges from seclusion, none of you will escape unscathed.”

“Hmph, if Lord Mu Lin were here, you would never dare act so arrogantly.”

“What are you so proud of? It’s only because Lord Mu Lin is absent. If he were here, he would defeat every single one of you…”

“You are strong, but we have Mu Lin…”

“Mu Lin…”

“Mu Lin…”

“Mu Lin…”

With a little guidance and Mu Lin’s past achievements, he gradually became a beacon of hope and a symbol for the Southern Prodigies.

Many defeated young Southern Prodigies believed that as long as Mu Lin stepped forward, he would undoubtedly crush the arrogant Northern Aristocracy.

Mu Lin became aware of this trend as soon as it began. Yan Yunyu, Si Ye, and others were no fools—they quickly sensed the shifting winds in Yuzhou City and informed Mu Lin of the situation.

“Building me up only to tear me down? Is coercion next?”

Just as Mu Lin thought the Southern Aristocracy in Yuzhou City would unite to petition for his intervention, they did no such thing. Instead, they spoke with remarkable reasonableness, stating that whether to act or not was entirely up to Mu Lin’s own will.

They emphasized that for a Cultivator, the most crucial matters were breakthroughs and advancement in Cultivation Level. Since Mu Lin was currently advancing—the most important event in a Cultivator’s life—no one should disturb him.

This reasoning was accepted by the Southern Aristocratic disciples, who genuinely refrained from disturbing Mu Lin.

However, while the Southern Aristocratic disciples accepted this, the Northern Aristocratic disciples… did not share the same sentiment.

One thing must be said: although Mu Lin had always leaned toward the Northern Aristocracy, he was also keenly aware—the Northern Aristocracy had never been the people’s army.

Or rather, throughout human history, whether in modern or ancient times, whether in the East or the West, armies truly of the people have been exceedingly rare.

In most cases, those who join the military are military scoundrels and warlords.

In ancient China, there was even a saying—bandits pass through like a comb, soldiers pass through like a fine-toothed comb. In some ways, robbers were more benevolent than armies.

People feared armies even more than bandits.

This wasn’t even referring to rogue or defeated armies; even regular armies terrified ordinary civilians—”killing civilians to claim military merit” was not an uncommon phrase in ancient China but a frequent occurrence.

So frequent that even the imperial court couldn’t tolerate it, repeatedly issuing orders to forbid such acts.

Yet conversely, its frequent mention also indicated that such incidents were commonplace.

This was true in the previous world, and it remains true in this one.

Those military household soldiers were never reasonable people.

And the prodigies of the Northern Aristocracy, who emerged victorious from battles against the Foreign Races and Forbidden Power, were even more arrogant… or perhaps spirited and defiant.

Youth, like the rising sun, full of vigor and ambition, is a good thing, but when taken too far, it becomes problematic.

Originally, the Northern Aristocracy wasn’t this extreme.

But the defeat of the Southern Aristocracy fueled their arrogance.

Thus, Mu Lin’s avoidance of battle was not seen by many in the Northern Aristocracy as favoring the north but rather as cowardice, fear of fighting, and fear of losing.

The Southern Aristocracy’s admiration for Mu Lin, along with their words after each defeat, only added fuel to the fire, infuriating the Northern Aristocracy.

In the eyes of many Northern Aristocrats, such talk implied that their victories were not earned but given by Mu Lin out of pity or mercy…

Could the Northern scholars accept such claims?

Especially when they were on a winning streak, defeating the Southern aristocratic youths left and right.

Naturally, the answer was that they couldn’t tolerate it.

Thus, in the following days, many made bold declarations, seeking to challenge Mu Lin.

Some Northern Aristocrats even openly spread rumors in the city, calling Mu Lin a coward.

The true catalyst for the conflict between Mu Lin and the Northern Aristocracy occurred at the Four Seas Tavern.

It was a rather luxurious tavern, its interior expanded over tenfold through spatial arrays. Inside, there were artificial mountains, gardens, and even a small lake.

Every day, aristocratic youths gathered there to eat, drink, and enjoy themselves.

At the center of the massive tavern was a well-equipped arena, originally intended for patrons to pass the time.

In the past, the arena was used for song and dance performances or beast fights.

But with the arrival of the Northern Aristocracy, the arena became a genuine battleground.

Today, a fight was taking place there.

“Roar, Black Wolf Devours Moon…”

It was a battle among those under eighteen years old. As before, the loser was a member of the Southern Aristocracy.

Defeat left the aristocratic youth with a grim expression, and those watching, including Xue Ying and Tian Yun, also wore troubled looks.

“Another loss…”

Losing was already unpleasant, and seeing the opponent’s smug and triumphant expression only worsened the defeated youth’s mood.

However, the opponent’s strength and his own injuries made it clear to the Southern scholar that he was no match.

But there’s a saying: “Lose the battle, not the spirit.” Unable to win himself, he instinctively searched for an excuse.

Undoubtedly, Mu Lin was now their best excuse, and thus, the defeated Southern Aristocracy used Mu Lin to salvage their pride.

“Don’t get too cocky, cough… you may have beaten me, but once Lord Mu Lin emerges from seclusion, every single one of you will be defeated!”

“Bang!”

His words caused the scar-faced youth, whose expression was tinged with madness, to erupt in fury.

After smashing a nearby railing with a punch, he snarled viciously:

“Mu Lin, Mu Lin, it’s always Mu Lin!”

“Spare me, stop using that cowardly bastard as an excuse! Even if he emerges from seclusion, so what? My Black Wolf will tear him apart!”

“Hah, you… you simply don’t understand Lord Mu Lin’s power…”

“I may not have witnessed his power, but I’ve seen his cowardice and incompetence firsthand. He doesn’t even dare to accept a challenge—what a spineless man…”

Because of Mu Lin, the two were hurling insults. In the past, it would have ended with just verbal abuse.

But coincidentally, today, Yan Yunyu was discussing matters with some people. Having finished her talks, she happened to descend the stairs and overheard the youth known as Black Wolf viciously insulting Mu Lin.

As someone whose heart and soul were devoted to Mu Lin, she could not tolerate others insulting him.

She dared not remain indifferent to such insults, especially in such a public setting… this could very well reach Mu Lin’s ears and cause him to harbor resentment.

Although it was only a possibility, Yan Yunyu was unwilling to take that risk.

Thus, without the slightest hesitation.

“Swish!” A silver chain, like a serpent, suddenly appeared and lashed out like a whip, striking Black Wolf with tremendous force.

“Smack!” “Boom!”

The sudden strike and its immense power sent Black Wolf flying over a hundred meters away, blood spraying from his mouth mid-air.

Only after Black Wolf was sent flying did icy, frigid words escape Yan Yunyu’s lips.

“Apologize!”

“Brother Mu is not someone a waste like you can insult.”

“…”

The sudden attack plunged the scene into abrupt silence, causing many to narrow their eyes.

Many had anticipated Yan Yunyu taking action; her visit to the Four Seas Tavern had been subtly guided to this end.

What surprised them was the sheer ferocity and speed of Yan Yunyu’s attack.

This was something many had not expected.

“Yan Yunyu… is she this powerful too?”

“How is that possible? She used to be nothing but deadweight…”

“This strength surpasses mine, doesn’t it?”

“Could she be a genius as well?”

“Genius, my foot! She only has a Second-Class Spirit Root, and her comprehension isn’t outstanding. The Yan Family had even given up on her before… It’s Mu Lin. Not only is he powerful himself, but he can also elevate those around him.”

Yan Yunyu’s attack left many in shock.

Especially those familiar with her, who widened their eyes in disbelief.

Among them, Yan Zhanpeng was somewhat better off. He had personally experienced Yan Yunyu’s strength within the clan and knew about it beforehand. Even if her current power had improved, he could accept it… or so he thought.

“How is this possible? It’s only been three days, yet her strength has increased again!”

Even Yan Zhanpeng, who had prior knowledge, stared in astonishment, his eyes wide with disbelief.

Those youths who knew of Yan Yunyu but were unaware of her strength were naturally even more shocked when they suddenly witnessed her current power.

Among them, the one who found it hardest to accept was undoubtedly Ji Xue, Yan Yunyu and Mu Lin’s former teammate.

Having advanced to the Spirit Pool stage herself, seeing the aura of Sha Refinement and Gang Condensation emanating from Yan Yunyu, Ji Xue’s face was filled with a shattered worldview and existential doubt.

Beyond her, Xue Ying and Tian Yun were also left dumbstruck by Yan Yunyu’s strength.

“…Just a few months ago, she was only at the Gushing Spring stage. How has she surpassed me after just a few months apart?”

Yan Yunyu’s formidable power made many feel as if the world had gone mad.

However, while some were in disbelief, others hardened their gazes and made a decision.

“…I must become stronger.”

Stroking the Blood Saber in her hand and feeling the state of having lost an eye, Xue Ying murmured softly to herself.

Meanwhile, high up in the Four Seas Tavern, someone frowned and said, “I never expected Yan Yunyu to be this strong as well… The situation has deviated. What should we do about our plan?”

“There’s no need to do anything. Although Yan Yunyu is unharmed, their conflict has already begun. With the arrogant and domineering nature of the Northern Aristocracy, they won’t simply admit defeat. And as for Mu Lin, he certainly won’t back down without reason. Therefore, we need do nothing but wait and watch.”

…

“Boom!”

“Apologize? Hah, hahaha, hahahaha…”

Although Yan Yunyu’s strike had sent Black Wolf flying a hundred meters away, it had not killed him, nor had it stripped him of his combat ability.

While everyone was still stunned by Yan Yunyu’s strength, he shook his body, sending debris flying, and emerged from the wreckage… walking straight toward Yan Yunyu.

At the same time, sensing the aura emanating from Yan Yunyu and hearing her demand for an apology, Black Wolf showed no fear. Instead, he burst into wild laughter.

Yet, that laughter was ferocious, even bordering on madness.

“Hahaha, to think you’d demand an apology from me and call me trash… I’ve truly been underestimated.”

At this point, his voice suddenly turned sharp and venomous:

“Bitch, you’re Mu Lin’s woman, aren’t you? Perfect. Once I capture you, let’s see if that Mu Lin can still hide like a turtle!”

“Awoo!”

As soon as he finished speaking, a savage wolf’s howl erupted from his body, and his form quickly shifted from human to that of a werewolf.

In his werewolf form, his appearance was utterly ferocious, the brutality in his eyes even more intense. At the same time, his aura surged dramatically.

“Not good!”

Seeing this, Xue Ying’s expression changed abruptly. Instinctively, she called out to Yan Yunyu.

“Get away from here! Go find Mu Lin, quickly.”

Clearly, even though Yan Yunyu had displayed formidable strength, Xue Ying still did not believe Yan Yunyu could be a match for Black Wolf.

And she was not alone in this thought—the others felt the same.

Some people upstairs were also instinctively relaying commands downward: “If Yan Yunyu is no match later, step in and don’t let that Black Wolf capture her… Under our plans, it’s acceptable for Yan Yunyu to get injured—that can provoke Mu Lin. But if she’s humiliated or killed, that would create a feud. Mu Lin would definitely investigate thoroughly, which would also be troublesome for us.”

“Don’t worry, Elder You. With us watching, nothing will happen… Besides, we won’t even need to intervene. That woman is shrewd. When negotiating with others, she never meets alone. There are always outsiders present to show her openness.”

“At the same time, she never leaves the Four Seas Tavern or the Four Seas Pavilion—both are within the Yan Family’s territory. She’ll be fine.”

In fact, Yan Yunyu truly would be fine.

As Black Wolf revealed his ferocious stance toward Yan Yunyu, Yan Family guards were already rushing toward the scene.

In the past, faced with such a situation, Yan Yunyu would have definitely withdrawn, letting the guards handle it.

But she had just received Mu Lin’s reward and gained formidable power. With a sharp blade in hand, the urge to kill naturally arose.

Possessing the Spirit Tool—Avici Chains—she was always itching to try them out.

It was like a human youth holding a stick and wanting to swing it around a few times.

At the same time, prodigies like Xue Ying and Tian Yun, whom she had once looked up to as unattainable, now fell short of her. Their shock and awe at her strength filled her with a sense of superiority.

This feeling greatly satisfied her and made her yearn for more.

Therefore, as Black Wolf approached, she did not retreat but instead stepped forward proactively.

“Someone like you isn’t worthy of Brother Mu’s intervention. I alone am enough.”

“???”

Her words silenced the scene. No one had expected Yan Yunyu to make such a decision.

After a moment of stunned silence, astonished voices soon erupted.

“Did I hear that right?”

“She actually wants to deal with Black Wolf herself instead of seeking Mu Lin? Is she insane? Does she think that borrowing Mu Lin’s power makes her a strong genius too?”

(End of Chapter)