Chapter 38 ：Unexpected Changes (Part 2)

Li Changchun's expression changed slightly, but it was brief, and he quickly regained composure. Looking at everyone, he noticed approval on their faces. He spoke, "Brother Landao, your words may have some merit. However, we, on Tai Xuan Mountain, don't know what could be of interest to those demons and monsters. Their cultivation methods are different from ours, so how could there be anything they desire from us?"

Yushuang, from Phoenix Academy, glanced at Li Changchun and softly said, "Tai Xuan Mountain gathers the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. Within its radius of several hundred miles, there might be unknown spiritual treasures. These treasures not only benefit us cultivators but would be even more valuable to those demons and monsters. Perhaps there is some spiritual treasure on Tai Xuan Mountain that has recently emerged."

This statement caught the attention of the other five, seeming to provide a clue. Faguo, from Bodhi Academy, looked at Li Changchun and said, "Although Junior Sister Yu's words are speculative, they make sense. We hope you can share any information you might have about Tai Xuan Mountain. This concerns the entire cultivation world, and openness is essential."

Li Changchun, after glancing at the others, said, "To be honest, while Junior Sister Yu's suggestion makes sense, you should know that if there were any spiritual treasures on Tai Xuan Mountain, our sect would have discovered them within these two thousand years. Why would we leave them for others to come and snatch?"

This response left the others dissatisfied, as it seemed like an attempt to avoid the issue. However, before they could express their discontent, news arrived about ghostly creatures appearing on Song Xian Ridge, a forbidden area of Tai Xuan Mountain.

Li Changchun's expression changed slightly, and he addressed everyone, suggesting they investigate the situation together. As they left, he discussed the possibility of bringing a couple of disciples along for experience and preparation for future battles against demons and monsters.

Once outside, they encountered Star Soul, who informed them about the presence of ghostly creatures. This revelation surprised Li Changchun, who directed stern questioning at Star Soul, demanding an explanation for how ghostly creatures breached the guarded Song Xian Ridge.

Star Soul, somewhat caught off guard, claimed not to know the details, mentioning that they had sent people to investigate. Li Changchun warned him to be cautious about divulging unnecessary information. However, as others arrived, Star Soul resumed his normal demeanor, hiding the tension.

Li Changchun, with a serious expression, addressed the group, suggesting they move quickly to Song Xian Ridge to understand the situation. He emphasized the importance of finding clues rather than speculating. The group, using flying swords and techniques, set out towards the forbidden area. During this, Li Changchun briefly fixed his gaze on Landao before shifting it away.

Once they gathered at the destination, Li Changchun took a moment to assess the situation. When he spoke, his words were measured and emphasized the need for caution. The group prepared to investigate the presence of ghostly creatures and uncover the truth behind these mysterious occurrences.

Xuanyu True Man glanced at Luyun and whispered, "Many things will naturally get better over time. Just go with the flow. In this competition, no matter who you face, it's all the same. Don't take it too seriously." He nodded slightly and continued forward.

Luyun looked at the sky, contemplating. Perhaps this was a test from the heavens, a trial of sorts. After two years of learning, he had obtained what he desired. Now, he pondered the path ahead. Should he let things unfold naturally, or should he resist the fate dictated by the heavens? No, Luyun was not willing to be bound by destiny. He was determined to defy both heaven and earth, proving that he wouldn't be shackled by fate.

"What are you thinking, staring at the sky alone?" A gentle voice interrupted his thoughts. A caring expression emanated from Aoxue's eyes as she spoke. Luyun glanced at her and noticed Yufeng smirking nearby. He shot Yufeng a glare before turning back to Aoxue. "I'm wondering if there might be some secrets hidden on Song Xian Ridge. Could what those ghostly creatures are seeking be there?"

Aoxue calmly responded, "You'll find out once we go there. Tranquility leads to success in cultivation. Overthinking things is detrimental to your progress."

Yunfeng chimed in, "Sister is right. Tranquility is the key to becoming an immortal. Unlike the Six Academies, where true experts are said to be rare, and their cultivators are known for their profound skills and a mind free from distractions. They spend their days peacefully, in contrast to us who are busy dealing with demons. They are far more enlightened."

Luyun, intrigued by the mention of the Six Academies, was about to inquire further when the group arrived at Song Xian Ridge. Observing the surroundings, Luyun felt an odd sensation. Something seemed hidden here—two things, to be precise. One exuded abundant spiritual energy, while the other emitted a peculiar aura, like a mysterious presence impossible to fathom.

As the group focused on the ongoing battle, Luyun subtly activated his mental waves. Instantly, the scene unfolded in his mind, revealing Swordsman Wu Chen wielding the Heavenly Spirit Divine Sword against two ghostly creatures. The creatures, fearing the sword's power, evaded rather than confronting him directly. Meanwhile, another man, around thirty years old, engaged in a fierce battle with the third ghostly creature. The man displayed a cold and proud demeanor, wielding a sharp sword that forced the creature to retreat.

Luyun suddenly understood that the mysterious aura he felt came from this man. It was both powerful and enigmatic, surpassing even Wu Chen in cultivation. The man's presence intrigued Luyun, challenging his preconceptions.

While the others observed the fight, Luyun remained silent. Unnoticed by the group, he unleashed twelve waves of mental energy, scanning every corner of Song Xian Ridge for the mysterious entities. However, the first ten waves yielded no results. Now, only the last two waves persisted, searching relentlessly for any signs.

As the group discussed capturing the ghostly creatures, Xuanyu True Man suggested the use of the Soul-Capturing Banner from the Wu Wei Sect, stating that capturing them alive was nearly impossible. The other leaders frowned at the suggestion, as such an artifact was rare and not readily available.

Li Changchun, sensing the impracticality, sighed, "It seems this won't work. Let's find another solution. Our goal is to gather here and hopefully slay these three intruding ghostly creatures. That would be an accomplishment." The leaders focused on the ongoing battle, determined to eliminate the threat posed by the ghostly creatures.