I Can See Your Combat Power-Chapter 1763 - 197: Reaching into the Human Heart

Yancang Beast Mountain

Hundreds of ferocious lion and tiger beasts formed a battle array. Under the bloodthirsty commands of the beast tamers, and with the control of the Beast Seal, the beasts advanced with the ferocity of fire yet held their ground like unshakable mountains. While their coordination between units still appeared slightly clumsy, their discipline surpassed that of some noble families’ private militias.

If Cao Yanran could witness this scene, she would certainly feel deeply gratified. It turns out the outer relations of the Mao Sect were not devoid of the ability to raise high-quality wild beasts. Unlike other forces that obediently dedicate their best offerings, the Shi Clan retained the finest beast breeds within their manor, making it seem as though they lacked beast-taming skills.

Perhaps the Shi brothers truly did not excel in martial capabilities, but seeing the scene of ferocious beasts charging across the mountains, who could dare say the renowned reputation of Ten Thousand Beasts Manor was hollow?

The beasts galloped across the mountains, while the manor halfway up the slope brimmed with excitement. Its master, Shi Muzhi, could hardly contain his thrill.

"Is it confirmed that Flame Sun Sword Master has returned to Yuanzhou with Xu Clan disciples?"

The chief advisor nodded deeply and affirmed, "It’s confirmed, indeed confirmed. They departed the day before yesterday. Three hundred Xu Clan disciples without exception, and Xu Changhao himself seems in low spirits. The family heads of Liu, Nong, and He clans hinted at hosting a farewell banquet, but the Sword Master refused them coldly. He even declined all escort offers, merely replenishing supplies hastily in Lanshan City before heading straight toward Longjiang."

"What does Sir believe is the reason Xu Changhao departed so suddenly?"

"This old man believes it may be due to Unparalleled Academy’s coursework not meeting expectations."

The chief advisor stroked his long beard, his wisdom radiating: "It’s rumored that Unparalleled Academy has several sets of extremely complex Foundation Building techniques. Upon mastering them, they are said to possess extraordinary wonders. But ultimately, they are still at the Foundation Building level of cultivation. Even the Washing Marrow Sutra from Buddha’s Country is not much different in effect. There’s hearsay that the disciples Xu Changhao brought this time are all direct heirs from various sword sects in Ying City. Setting aside their renowned family traditions, the power backing them is formidable beyond measure."

"Yet, over three years have passed. Based on conversations with disciples visited by Yancang envoys, these Xu Clan disciples have been training in Unparalleled Academy using the academy’s most challenging Foundation Building technique, the so-called ’Five Elements Holy Spirit Foundation Building Method.’ The advantages of this technique are as evident as its drawbacks. Among these noble-born disciples with the finest aptitudes, even the best have only mastered two Holy Spirit forms thus far."

"By conservative estimates, it would take eight to ten years of grueling effort to master all five Holy Spirit forms. Spending such time for a mere mouthful of acquired qi is a questionable endeavor. But one thing is certain—sword sects in Ying City would never allow their direct heirs to train in a Foundation Building method that demands such lengthy commitment. Xu Changhao’s hasty departure this time is likely in response to pressure from Ying City’s forces!"

The chief advisor’s meticulous analysis brought an even broader grin to Shi Muzhi’s face.

"So, you’re saying the forces in Ying City will drastically change their attitude toward Unparalleled Academy?"

"That’s an inevitability!"

The chief advisor declared confidently, "Furthermore, once Xu Changhao returns to Yuanzhou, those sword sects will see their disciples’ lack of progress after three to four years and will harbor immense resentment toward Unparalleled City. I dare to assert that after Xu Changhao returns to Yuanzhou, there will never again be Xu Clan disciples sent to Red Cloud Mountain. The days of Unparalleled City wielding its reputation like a banner will be thoroughly over!"

"Good, good, good!"

Shi Muzhi gritted his teeth and said, "Now that our greatest concern has been alleviated, swiftly convert the letters received from Unparalleled City into proclamations, and announce them across Longzhou! Ten Thousand Beasts Manor can forgo compensation for the hundred wild beasts, but Unparalleled City must hand over the culprit who killed Yu Qing, as well as the two dragon beasts that escaped from Luyang!"

"Master, since we’ve stated we’re willing to forgo the compensation of a hundred wild beasts, why are we still pursuing the two dragon beasts...?"

The chief advisor expressed concern, "Will this not reveal our true intentions?"

"Foolish!"

Shi Muzhi rebuked fiercely, "Given the current status of the true power-holder in Luyang, with the seven clan leaders of Kanglong Hall circling around him, who else in Beast Taming Sect enjoys such prestige apart from the Beast King? The demand for dragon beasts is a task assigned by that person, and it must be executed flawlessly. Only by ensuring this can we hope to board their grand ship!"

"Master is truly wise!"

The chief advisor praised enthusiastically, "I was merely focused on the affairs of our manor, but Master’s aspirations encompass the entire realm—far out of my reach."

"Sir, those are words of flattery."

Though inwardly pleased, Shi Muzhi still replied humbly, "Strategizing in grand visions requires individuals to execute immediate plans and calculations. I must rely on Sir’s meticulous efforts in the days ahead!"

"Master possesses unparalleled ambition and does not disparage my decaying frame—I dare not hold back in serving the manor with utmost devotion!"

The chief advisor declared passionately.

"Good! Please, Sir, draft a proclamation condemning the villains immediately. Be sure to use harsh language. We are now in an advantageous position and need not show any courtesy to Unparalleled City."

Shi Muzhi waved his hand decisively, exuding confidence as he overlooked the valley’s beast herd, as though Red Cloud Mountain was already beneath his feet.

...

Red Cloud Mountain peak platform

Ou Yu could never understand why Tang Luo insisted on preserving this seemingly meaningless summit platform. A small floating expanse hung above the radiant crystal castle, which served no apparent function. As a pure craftsman, it was difficult for Ou Yu to grasp this inexplicable sentimentality.

But, after all, Unparalleled City belonged to Tang Luo. Even though Ou Yu was the designer, he had to compromise to a certain degree. Since the floating summit wasn’t particularly hindering, it had been retained.

Thus, over a decade later, Tang Luo could again find his way to that familiar spot. When the weary scholar finally climbed to the mountain’s summit and saw his old friend seated at the edge of the floating platform with dangling legs and a wine cup placed beside him, he shook his head, walked forward, and sat down.