Chapter 66-73

Chapter 66-73

Shaken by what had just happened before her eyes, Yi Xins heart was still pounding furiously. She had failed to catch Lu Chens words clearly so she asked softly, Who is it that you said?

However, because Lu Chen still had his hand covering her mouth, her words were muffled. Upon realizing this fact, Lu Chen released his grip.

Yi Xin heaved a sigh of relief and gasped for air. Glancing in the direction of the Bloodthirsty Demonic Flowers again, her face turned pale.

If Lu Chen had not stopped her previously; if they were the ones who had approached that crippled young hound and the bloodied flesh was thrown out at that moment Yi Xin dared not think about the possible consequences.

This place is too dangerous. Lets go. Yi Xin whispered to Lu Chen. Concurrently, in her mind, she solemnly vowed to never again visit such wretched lands so easily.

Lu Chen didnt seem as though he intended to leave immediately, on the contrary. He stared coldly in the direction where the mysterious black figure disappeared, and over there, a dense forest could be seen, although it was a mystery where it led to.

Lets go. Well take a look.

When Yi Xin heard the first half of Lu Chens words, visible relief appeared on her face. However, even before a smile could fully form, her enchanting features froze.

Take, take a look at what?, stuttered Yi Xin.

Lu Chen did not reply. Instead, he proceeded straight toward the forest that stood within the valley. Even though he looked calm on the surface, when Yi Xin observed him from the side, she realized that his eyes were particularly bright. He emanated an icy-cold aura which she had never felt from him before; it felt as though a razor-sharp blade was slowly drawn from its sheath, and the odor of blood was sent forth.

A lone Barbarian who has left his tribe wandering in the Confounding Lands Very faintly, the words seemed to have been muttered from his mouth. It seemed as though he was speaking to himself, and yet again, it seemed to be a sneer.

Standing still on her spot, Yi Xin was confused and conflicted. From the savagery and bloodiness she had previously seen, the mysterious dark figure was clearly no kind person. Looking for him just like that would no doubt be extremely dangerous. Thus, she could not comprehend why Lu Chen, who had been prudent the whole time, would suddenly behave so unusually and insist on looking for that dark shadow.

Wouldnt it be best to escape from here?

In any case, the both of them are uninjured, right?

However, when Yi Xin lifted her head to take a look, after her short hesitation, she realized that Lu Chen had already walked into the distance. Seeing how he was approaching the edge of the forest, fear overcame her once more. Due to her inexperience, the ordeals she had undergone since the last night had instilled in her a dread of the Confounding Lands. At this moment, Lu Chen was her most trusted and reliable support. Thus, she could not help but called out, Brother Lu, wait for me. Then, she rushed forward to catch up with him.

Upon entering the forest, Yi Xin instantaneously noticed the surrounding brightness diminishing. The temperature had also dipped slightly. On additional deliberation, she concluded that it was likely due to the densely congregated tree leaves above her. There were numerous small shrubs, and the fallen leaves that had accumulated on the forest floor over innumerable years felt soft to the feet. The smell of trees and decomposed leaves lingered in the air.

Without much effort, Lu Chen found a hidden path and proceeded on it.

The path was strange, disappearing abruptly from time to time, but Lu Chen seemed to possess mysterious abilities. At such times, he would meticulously scan the surroundings and discover some traces in an inconspicuous corner, and then continue forward on the path.

Some of these traces and pieces of evidence included the faint smell of blood that blotted leaves, the newly-fallen leaves, as well as footprints that were so faint that they were almost indiscernible. Even so, Lu Chen managed to detect everything.

Following behind Lu Chen, Yi Xins eyes were filled with shock and dismay. From a young age, all she had done was to immerse herself in cultivation and cultivation was all she knew. The most she had experienced were sparring matches with her seniors and juniors. She had never witnessed such amazing capabilities.

Looking at the figure before her, she felt terrified all of a sudden. What if What if one day, she became this mans prey, surely there would be no chance of escape, right?

She sensed that the man before her, Lu Chen, had lived in a world completely different from what she knew, and that vile world, which in all the time before she had visited the Confounding Lands, was a world she never knew of.

Lu Chens movements were adept and efficient and, at times, his display seemed uncanny. Lu Chen dredged up traces swiftly as if he knew of their locations beforehand, even ones that Yi Xin could not believe was possible to detect. Moreover, he seemed to be well aware of the habits of the black shadow before him

Around an hour later, Lu Chen suddenly halted his footsteps, stopping Yi Xin as well.

Amidst the dense greenery around them, a half mu wide clearing appeared before them. A towering boulder before them unexpectedly turned out to be an opening to a steep slope, and a cave could be seen beneath the boulder.

(1 mu = 666m^2 = approximately 26m * 26m)

The ground before the cave was a mess. Numerous objects that seemed to be trash were scattered all over, such as charred rocks, broken twigs, and bones of differing sizes. At a rough glance, most of these bones came from the smaller beasts.

Hng he Hng Hng

A bizarre noise echoed from within the cave, and it sounded like heavy panting. In no time, a figure walked out and it was the same mysterious man from before at the Bloodthirsty Demonic Flower River Valley.

At proximity, Lu Chen and Yi Xin could discern his features more clearly. Quickly, they realized that the man seemed to be an elder. Aside from his emaciated appearance, his gait resembled an old man that possessed difficulties breathing.

Even so, this didnt diminish the savage image of that strange man. As he emerged from the cave, he was still carrying the panthers bloodied limb. The man walked directly to a rock and sat down, immediately beginning to chew.

Fresh blood trickled down the edges of his mouth, and he looked like a wild beast.

Yi Xin quivered. She could only feel overwhelming disgust at the sight and, becoming nauseated, almost threw up. It was fortunate that she knew it wasnt the right moment and forced herself to calm down. Even so, she dared not to look at the Barbarian any longer. She cowered backward and just as she was about to communicate to Lu Chen that they should avoid trouble and just leave, her body froze abruptly.

Unknowingly, Lu Chen had already disappeared from beside her.

Yi Xin was appalled. She turned her head to look in all directions, and a moment later, discovered Lu Chen proceeding along the edges of the shrubbery near the cave. He was behind the strange man and was slowly getting closer.

The distance between the duo was at present a mere few zhang.

(1 zhang = 3.33m)

Watching closely, Yi Xin suddenly felt her heart beat furiously. She was so nervous that even her breathing had halted. Conversely, the surroundings of the cave were completely silent and peaceful, except for the peculiar man who was chewing on the bloodied flesh like a wild beast.

But right amidst the silence, abruptly, the desolate howl of a hound from within the cave tore apart the tranquility.

==

Lu Chen, who was creeping forward slowly, froze his movements abruptly and paused on the spot. On the other hand, Yi Xin, who hid further to the rear, felt her mind turn blank. Her heart was beating so rapidly that it felt as though it was about to explode.

As for the peculiar man, who was gnawing voraciously on the panthers limb, he stopped abruptly and raised his head. Without turning back to look, he roared, Darned dog, shut up! After which, he tore another mouthful of the bloodied flesh he held in his hand savagely, and with a muffled voice, he bellowed, Count yourself lucky today! Even though I failed to capture that woman, a yellow panther came to court its own death. After Im done eating this panther leg, if you again fail to catch me any prey, Ill gobble you up as well!

The howling in the cave gradually subsided. It was hard to tell whether it was because the young hound was frightened by the Barbarians words or that its severe injuries had sapped its strength.

The strange man sneered coldly, but after consuming a huge amount of meat, his spirits seemed to have lifted. Despite his decrepit appearance, the greed and savagery in his eyes deepened as he muttered to himself, Damn it! If I had captured that woman today, I would be able to

Be able to do what? Suddenly, a cold voice echoed from his back.

The strange man was taken aback, nearly tossing the panthers limb in his grasp. He swiftly turned his head and saw that a man was already standing behind him without him realizing it. Furthermore, his appearance was oddly familiar; it was the man whom he had previously spied on from the shadows during the day.

AHH The mysterious old man released an immeasurably ferocious roar, leaping up and immediately throwing the panthers leg toward Lu Chen, as though a weapon. In that instant, he sounded like an agitated wild beast.

However, halfway through his leap, he felt an abrupt, cold sensation at his waist. Following right away, an excruciating pain suddenly spread through his body. The strange man released a heart-wrenching yell of agony. Lowering his head to take a look, he noticed a black dagger that had pierced into his back waist and recognized that his leap had tugged on the dagger, ripping a massive glaring wound through him.

Crimson blood spurted in a jet as though a blood fountain, but it didnt take long for the waterworks to die down. It seemed that the decrepit body no longer held as much blood as before.

The strange man staggered backward while releasing furious howls. However, his brittle and decrepit body seemed unable to withstand such heavy wounds. It didnt take long for him to crash onto the ground. He struggled while panting heavily. At the same time, he glared viciously at the man who had appeared out of nowhere.

Yi Xin ran over from the side, and for an instance, her eyes met the strange mans fearsome gaze. Frightened by the brutality projected by his eyes, her face paled, not daring to look at that beast-like man for another second. She swiftly ran to Lu Chens side and asked, Are, are you alright?

Lu Chen glanced at her and shook his head. He then pointed at the savage strange man and spoke, The trap at the valley was targeted at us.

Hearing those words, Yi Xins heart leaped, and she was at a loss for words.

Lu Chen sneered chillingly, and with the black dagger in his hands grabbed tightly, he walked leisurely toward the strange man and squatted down.

That strange man shrank backward subconsciously. Even so, he continued to glare at Lu Chen with his savage eyes. If looks could kill, Lu Chen might have been murdered countless times in the cruelest methods possible.

Nevertheless, Lu Chen seemed completely impervious. A sliver of disgust appeared on his face as he said, You had better remain obedient.

The mysterious mans face was fully stained with blood and he looked exceptionally vicious and terrifying. On hearing Lu Chens words, he smirked cruelly and cursed, Scram! I will eat you AHH!

A bone-chilling scream let loose from his mouth once again and Yi Xin, who was standing nearby, almost jumped in fright. She glanced over, only to see Lu Chens poker face, as he seemed completely unmoved by the strange mans plight. The black dagger that he held within his hand was already stabbed into the strange mans thigh. Then, after some twisting it, a huge wound was torn.

The strange man howled in agony. Tumbling about on the ground, his voice gradually weakened.

Even so, it sent a chill down Yi Xins spine. Unable to tolerate the sight, she walked over and tugged on Lu Chens sleeves gently, whispering, Lu, Brother Lu, dont act like this

Lu Chen turned his head to look at her and spoke suddenly, Do you know who he is?

Under Lu Chens gaze, Yi Xin felt uneasy. For some reason, even though she could sense that Lu Chen didnt bear any hostility toward her, deep within, she feared him instinctively. In fact, her fear for Lu Chen seemed to surpass even that for the ferocious strange man.

She lowered her head and answered softly, I dont know.

He is a barbarian. Lu Chens words rang by her ear. A tinge of coldness could be heard within his tranquil voice.

Yi Xin was taken aback. Barbarian? Werent the Barbarians sent back to the Southern Barren Plains after they lost the war a thousand years ago?

Lu Chen eyed the decrepit Barbarian, who was still pitifully howling on the ground and said, Most of the Barbarian Tribes had retreated, but the war a thousand years ago was too intense. In fact, there were passageways and terrains that were destroyed by the powerful zhenjuns and zhenrens. Thus, there are still a group of Barbarians who remained within the Confounding Lands.

This was the first time Yi Xin had heard of this matter. Startled by the news, she remained silent for a moment before exclaiming, So thats the case. Ive never heard of Barbarian Tribes residing in the Confounding Lands.

Lu Chen replied, These remnants of the Barbarians mainly lived in tribes in the depths of the Confounding Lands, rarely visiting the outer perimeter, and thus, it isnt surprising that you have never heard of them.

Yi Xin hesitated for a moment before asking, Ive heard that the deeper one proceeds into the Confounding Lands, the more dangerous it is. If thats so, why dont the Barbarian Tribes live in the outer perimeter? Wouldnt it be easier for them to live this way?

Lu Chen commented impassively, In the eyes of the Barbarian Tribes, we, human cultivators, are even more fearsome enemies than the demonic beasts in the Confounding Lands.

Yi Xin was astounded by Lu Chens words and subconsciously desired to refute him. In her impression, there were good and bad cultivators, but rarely were there those who slaughtered others without giving a second thought. To be more exact, in her entire lifetime of cultivation, she had never seen such a cultivator.

But when those words reached the tip of her tongue, she glanced at the man before her and swallowed them back down. Lowering her head, she asked, If theyre gathered in tribes, why is he alone? Furthermore, why did he escape to the outer perimeter, where human cultivators flock?

The depths of the Confounding Lands are treacherous. Even though the Barbarians have gathered in tribes, survival is still no easy task. Thus, a custom slowly developed. The older members of the tribe, whose bodily functions had deteriorated and could no longer hunt in the middle region of the Confounding Lands, would have to leave the tribe and survive on their own.

With her mouth wide open, and Yi Xin felt her body turning cold. She could almost visualize a cold frost before her, and it was as though the beautiful world she knew had been flipped upside down, revealing the coldness and brutality that hid beneath.

On the contrary, Lu Chen continued with his impassive voice, This should be the case with this Barbarian. Due to his deteriorating body, he can no longer remain in the treacherous lands of the middle region. As such, he can only slowly migrate outward, building his encampment at this valley located in the outer perimeter. On one hand, he was waiting for death, on the other, he was bringing harm to humans.

As Lu Chen spoke, he glanced at Yi Xin and saw the expressions that flickered through her face. He continued, Youve also heard what he said. That trap was intended for you. Then, do you want to know what would happen if you were indeed caught by him?

Yi Xin stared blankly into Lu Chens eyes which were serene but felt like a bottomless abyss. Suddenly, for no apparent reason, she felt a chilling sensation permeate through the bones of her entire body, as though she had fallen into an icy cavern.

==

What will happen? Yi Xin asked with a hushed voice.

Staring at her face, Lu Chen said slowly, If you were to fall into his trap and be caught alive, after youve been rendered powerless, he would first rape you. Then, he will chop your body into pieces and pieces of bloodied flesh before chewing on them slowly. At which, Lu Chen pointed to the bloodied panther leg on the ground and said emotionlessly, Just like that thing.

Owehhh!

Looking at the panther leg, Yi Xin could no longer hold herself back. Trembling heavily, she charged into the bushes, bent down, and retched. Her face was as pale as a sheet.

Lu Chen observed her quietly, not consoling her in the least. However, he didnt continue elaborating with those cold words of his.

After some time, Yi Xin seemed to have gradually calmed down. While still gasping, she straightened her body and slowly walked back. She no longer dared to look at the dirty, savage, decrepit Barbarian and the panther leg. She fearfully walked to Lu Chens side, hesitated for a moment before asking with a hushed tone, Brother Lu, lets, lets go

Alright!

To Yi Xins surprise, Lu Chen agreed to her request readily this time. After which, she saw Lu Chen turn around and stroll toward the Barbarian who was on the ground, moaning pitifully.

Neither did he raise his volume nor were there any killing intent that could be felt from him. In fact, his expression had remained completely indifferent. Yet, Yi Xin felt the surrounding temperature dip. The elderly Barbarian seemed to have realized something as well. He wailed, cursed, and struggled to back away, dragging behind him a terrifying trail of blood.

But his efforts were futile. Lu Chen, nevertheless, swiftly walked to him And to Yi Xins horror, he lifted the black dagger and stabbed the Barbarian elder!

The blade, that was sharp beyond comparison, pierced through his flesh and blood instantaneously and stabbed his heart.

The elderly Barbarians body stiffened and curled together as he screamed a string of bizarre but indistinct words. A moment later, that dirty and savage head fell to the ground, his body frozen, and his breathing ceased.

Lu Chen retrieved his dagger and went back to Yi Xin. He was expressionless, as though he had simply completed an insignificant task. Facing Yi Xin, he said, We can leave now.

Yi Xin nodded her head blankly. As she watched Lu Chen walk down the slope, an impulse overwhelmed her all of a sudden and she asked, Brother Lu, do do you have a grudge with these Barbarians?

Lu Chens paused in his steps abruptly. After a short moment, he replied without turning around, I guess you can say that I have a grudge with them. But it isnt to the point that I have to kill them on sight. However, if anyone were to try to kill me, I wont simply let it go.

Yi Xin went silent. A complex expression appeared on her face. Everything that happened before her eyes, and this was including Lu Chen, was completely different from that simple and innocent life she had been living in the past. These events exceeded her understanding. To say, if the one who had rescued her yesterday was a courageous and upright person, then he seemed to be a different man today.

Lets go.

From ahead, Lu Chen shouted. Jolted out of her thoughts, Yi Xin answered and hurried forward. Yet, just as she walked past the cave toward the slope and had prepared to leave this place alongside Lu Chen, wailing echoed from within the cave suddenly. Then, a small body climbed from within the cave with great difficulty.

It was the young hound that possessed black fur but with a white stripe down its back. Its right hind leg drooped limply on the ground, and it seemed to be broken. Its entire body was dirty and messy, and it seemed to be in a wretched state.

The young hound struggled out of its cave, expending the very last bit of its energy, demonstrating its will to live, regardless of the cost. It called out to Yi Xin weakly.

Wang, wang Wang

Yi Xin stopped in her track, sympathy emerging on her face.

Yi Xin was surprised by her own compassion here. In the past, she has had seen plenty of pitiful wild dogs and cats when passing through a few other towns, but this time, she could not hold herself back. Perhaps it was a result of witnessing excessive slaughter and bloodshed, which she had never experienced in her life until today, and this heavy burden which weighed down on her gave her breathing difficulties.

Or perhaps, this was just her innocent and soft-hearted nature.

Thus, she turned around and walked toward the young hound, causing Lu Chen, who was at the front, to stop and frown.

Yi Xin squatted beside the young black puppy. Examining it carefully, she realized that the condition of the hound was worse than she had initially imagined.

Other than that fracture on its leg, there were more than a dozen of scars and lacerations. It wasnt an exaggeration to say that he was a mass of bruises. Some of the flesh surrounding the wounds were even decomposing, emitting a revolting stench. It was hard to imagine what kind of torture this young hound had suffered in the past few days in the savage Barbarians captivity.

Lets save it! Yi Xin turned around and shouted to Lu Chen.

Lu Chen shook his head impassively.

Gritting her teeth, Yi Xin slowly stood up and the young black hound whimpered while staring at her intently.

Lu Chen glanced at Yi Xin in astonishment as he spoke, You want to bring it back with you to raise it?

Yes. Yi Xin replied happily. Ah Tu is also a pitiful soul. Look at how severe its wounds are.

Lu Chen glanced at Ah Tu. On the day they found it, its wounds were indeed severe. However, it possessed the bloodline of a demonic beast, granting it outstanding recovery abilities. In the short span of a few days, its wounds had recovered tremendously. Especially, even the wound on its broken leg had recovered almost fully. Even though the limping problem couldnt be solved, Ah Tu was already managing to barely run without the wooden stick, although with increased exertion.

In comparison, a wooden stick was still firmly attached to Yi Xins arm.

Lu Chen shrugged and replied, If you wish to raise it, feel free to do so.

Ah Tu, come here. Yi Xin beckoned the young hound once more with a smile.

Ah Tu ran obediently to her side while wagging its tail. Yi Xin squatted down and patted Ah Tus bald head with excessive affection. Then, she said, Ah Tu, bid Brother Lu farewell. Well be returning home.

Wang wang, Ah Tu stared at Yi Xin with its exceptionally bright eyes, tilting its head before barking twice.

Yi Xin burst into laughter and pointed at Lu Chen, Its Brother Lu whom you should be bidding farewell to. Well be leaving in a while.

Ah Tu blinked its eyes. It glanced at Yi Xin before turning its head to look at Lu Chen. Then, it barked at Yi Xin once more before rushing to Lu Chens side, nestling up beside him.

Hm?

Lu Chen and Yi Xin were taken aback. Ah Tus actions were clearly not one of bidding Lu Chen goodbye. After a moment, Lu Chen seemed to have thought of something and frowned. On the other hand, Yi Xin ran over, stretched her hand to grab Ah Tu while saying, Ah Tu, you sure are silly. I am saying that

Before she could finish her words, the young hound retreated, avoiding Yi Xins hand. Then, it dashed behind Lu Chens body to hide.

This time, its intentions couldnt be any clearer. Yi Xin stood up in shock. After a moment, she suddenly felt infuriated, Hey! Stinky Ah Tu, are you mistaken? In the past few days. I am the one who has been feeding you and hugging you to sleep. The one who usually plays with you is also me, but now, you are choosing Brother Lu over me?

Ah Tus bald head popped out from in between Lu Chens legs carefully before barking twice, seemingly admitting to the matter.

Lu Chen rolled his eyes.

Ah Tu licked Lu Chens legs while wagging its tail, fawning on him.

Yi Xin grabbed her forehead in distress. She pointed to Ah Tu and bellowed, You, you, you

Lu Chen coughed, Ahem I have roughly guessed the reason behind its actions.

What is it? Yi Xin immediately asked.

Since countless ages before, the Confounding Lands has been a treacherous land where the strong preyed on the weak. The countless lifeforms, including demonic beasts, are already used this set of rules. Thus, during their weaker stages, if theyre given a choice, they will choose to follow the strong Nearing the end of his words, Lu Chen glanced at Yi Xin and chuckled, not saying anymore.

Yi Xin stood dumbfounded on the spot. Her face grew red and a moment later, she roared furiously, Damn it, even this little beast is looking down on me!

Of the name of the dog, Ah Tu, Ah is simply a sound whereas Tu means soil/earth.

In Chinese, soil/earth (Tu) is a homophone of bald (Tu).

Thus, what they meant was that instead of Baldy, they decided to use a homophone for it and name it Ah Tu instead.

Also, Tu Gou is a term for Canis lupus familiaris or domesticated dogs. Thus, the name sort of hints that Ah Tu is a domesticated dog (while it is actually a hound, not a part of the can be domesticated family).

==

Ah Tu gazed at Yi Xin with affection, but even so, it refused to emerge from behind Lu Chen. It seemed to have steeled its heart to follow Lu Chen.

Lu Chen sighed and lowered his head to speak to Ah Tu, Hey, dumb dog, let me tell you, if you follow her, you can live in luxury for the rest of your entire life. On the other hand, if you follow me, you will just suffer. It is hard to say when you will eventually perish in the wilderness.

Indeed! Yi Xin hurriedly agreed with him as she stared at Ah Tu helplessly.

This time, Ah Tu didnt even bother looking at Yi Xin. Instead, it faced Lu Chen, wagging its tail with all its might.

You You dumb dog! Choked with anger, Yi Xin was unable to say a single word. Yet, after interacting with Ah Tu in the previous few days, her eyes reddened at the thought of parting with it.

Eventually, the two humans and one dog spent half a tea time at the Leaping Tiger Gorge talking through the affair, but regardless of Yi Xins pleas, Ah Tu remained unmoved.

(a teas time ~ 15 minutes)

Eventually, Yi Xin had no choice but to give up. She bade farewell to Lu Chen grudgingly and before leaving, sighing, she yet again instructed firmly, Brother Lu, I will be leaving Ah Tu to you. You must

When Im hungry, Ill slaughter it and make dog stew. Lu Chen replied Yi Xin indifferently.

Yi Xin was stunned. It took a moment before she was able to stutter the words out of her mouth, What, what did you say?

Lu Chen spoke as-a-matter-of-factly, I never intended to raise a dog. In fact, when I saved it that day, it was because of your insistence. I didnt order it to follow me, it was the one who chose to follow me on its own accord. So, even if I were to boil it, there is nothing wrong, right?

Of course theres a problem! Yi Xin bellowed. Then, with a tearful face, she pleaded, Brother Lu, Ah Tu is so pitiful. Dont eat him, let him go

Watching Yi Xins expression, Lu Chen burst into laughter. At the same time, he felt a tinge of warmth in his heart. Yi Xin is still young and she seemed to have been truly pampered, resulting in her innocent nature. It was hard to imagine why her family would allow such a young lady, who had never weathered through hardship, to come to a treacherous place like the Confounding Lands

The thought of it astonished him. He frowned and examined Yi Xin from head to toe. Under his gaze, Yi Xin suddenly felt embarrassed and stepped backward, Brother Lu, whats wrong?

Lu Chen harrumphed, It cant be that you sneaked out secretly without telling your family members?

Yi Xin was dumbfounded. A bright shade of red grew on her beautiful face, betraying her thoughts.

Lu Chen shook his head, Forget it, this matter doesnt concern me. However, as acquaintances, I have to advise you to be careful and not to run about haphazardly.

With a lowered head, Yi Xin appeared to have recalled something and her eyes grew red, I understand. I will definitely apologize to father and mother when I return. Also I seemed to have burdened Senior Uncle Han and Senior He. If not for me, they would

Hey! Lu Chen interrupted her words suddenly and frowned, What kind of nonsense are you babbling? What do their deaths have to do with you?

Yi Xin bit her lips and said, I was unable to help them when the Black Jackals surrounded us due to my low cultivation, causing them to

Nonsense! Lu Chen snorted. Staring at the young lady as though she were an idiot, he spoke, Are you a fool? What does that have to do with you? It was your first time in the Confounding Lands, and given that Han Nanzu and He Gang are official Kunlun Sect disciples who possess higher cultivation realms and greater worldly experience, it is only natural for them to take care for you! Dont you think that its the fault of those two fools that you landed in such a situation that day?

Sneering coldly, he said, Furthermore, I have warned them time and time again before departing. It is one thing that you are still young and immature, but the two of them allowed greed to blind their minds. They deserved it, and they dragged you down. Do you get it?

Yi Xin was perplexed. After a moment, she replied without confidence, Is that so

Lu Chen continued, Of course thats how it is. Yi Xin, being compassionate is a good thing. However, if you choose to blame yourself for everything regardless of the truth, that can no longer be called compassionate.

After being lectured by Lu Chen, Yi Xins head hung low and her face was bright red. She secretly glanced at Lu Chen through her peripheral vision and asked softly but sheepishly, Then, then what is it?

Lu Chen replied impatiently, Thats called being foolish!

Finally, with what that has to be said been said; the dog that has to go remained unwilling to go.

Eventually, unable to persuade Ah Tu, Yi Xin could only wave Lu Chen and the dog goodbye.

Before leaving, she repeatedly instructed and earnestly pleaded Lu Chen on two matters: Firstly, you must never eat Ah Tu no matter what happens. It is very obedient and honest, and given how it seems to be fated to meet us both, you might suffer karma if you eat it. Secondly, Brother Lu, if you have the chance in the future, will you come to Kunlun Mountain to look for me? It is too dangerous serving as a guide in the Confounding Lands. Why dont I plead with my parents and my future teacher to get you a place as a menial disciple in Kunlun Sect? Not only is it safe, you will also be able to live with dignity. Also, dont forget to bring Ah Tu with you then

I get it, I get it Even though Lu Chen had seen many things in life, he was unable to stand the naggy pleadings of this young lady. I wont eat this dog, Ill just ignore it. It is getting late now, so you should hurry along.

Wang wang, wang wang wang Lying beside Lu Chens foot, Ah Tu barked at a very timely moment.

Yi Xin nodded her head, but she felt reluctant to part. She was someone who possessed little world experience and in the few days staying with Lu Chen and Ah Tu, she had developed some feelings for the two. Thus, with every single step, she would turn around and wave. Slowly, she walked into the distance.

Lu Chen and Ah Tu stared at her and soon, both human and dog revealed a bizarre expression.

They must be reluctant to part with me As Yi Xin thought so, she felt a tinge of warmth within. Somehow, she felt shy as well, and her footsteps gradually slowed. At this moment, she suddenly heard Lu Chens helpless voice behind her, Hey!

Whats wrong? Yi Xin turned around and looked at Lu Chen.

Youre walking in the wrong direction!

Yi Xin froze immediately. With difficulty, she scanned her surroundings and then realized that she had unknowingly walked into the Leaping Tiger Gorge once more.

A moment later, she released a soft ah. Too embarrassed to meet at Lu Chen and Ah Tu in the eye, she turned around, covered her lowered face, and dashed into the distance.

Vaguely, she could hear Lu Chens voice behind her. He seemed to be conversing with the dog beside him.

Ah Tu, to think that would be another person who is more foolish than you

Wang wang wang wang Ah Tu barked loudly, seemingly dissatisfied with Lu Chens words.

==

TY Chapter 73: Scavenging in the Night

Unknowingly, autumn had passed. Moonfang City, which stood outside of the Confounding Lands, entered the winter season. Compared to the mythical Northern Glacial Ocean, which is said to be capable of freezing humans into ice blocks, the winter experienced here isnt considered unbearable. At the very most, an additional layer of clothes would do. Moreover, if ones cultivation realm was sufficiently high, they could even avoid this as well.

Lu Chen strolled leisurely around the Moonfang City and a young black hound limped closely behind him.

Even though he had spoken harshly about it when parting with Yi Xin, Lu Chen did not eventually slaughter Ah Tu for food.

The present Ah Tu looks completely different from how it did when the duo discovered it in the Confounding Lands. The fur on its body had grown and it is no longer that hideous bald dog. In addition, Ah Tu had grown significantly larger and it carries a jacket of black, lustrous fur. Its movements are nimble, its eyes shining brightly, and it appears to be extremely lively; it seems to be an entirely different dog, except for its limp, which serves as an evidence for its painful past.

The busiest location in Moonfang City Square was located just another street away. There is a constant traffic of humans, the hustle, and bustle resembling an unending onslaught of waves.

After glancing at his sides, Lu Chen continued forward with a straight face. On the other hand, Ah Tu, who was following behind him, peered curiously in all directions before abruptly darting into the crowd, disappearing within the blink of an eye.

Lu Chen took a casual look behind him and continued to proceed forward expressionlessly, paying the matter no heed at all. In no time, he arrived at the most active spot in the city square. Suddenly, he noticed a crowd before the public announcement board, with soft murmurs and individuals engaged in hushed, whispering discussions; it was as if they had witnessed something bewildering.

With his curiosity aroused, Lu Chen squeezed into the crowd to take a closer look, only to see a gigantic piece of yellow notice freshly glued above layers and layers of old paper; several rows of characters were written.

Arrest the pirate, Blue Butterfly! Greedy and lustful, he has committed innumerable evils, murder, arson, rape, and kidnap. Scourging the world, he has been bringing bloodshed wherever he goes. Recently, its said that he has escaped to the Confounding Lands, and we beseech for all cultivators who come by him to take him down. Anyone who takes down this criminal will be rewarded 5000 Spirit Stones.

And signing off right at the bottom, astoundingly, was the famous True Immortal Alliance.

The surrounding passers-by were engaged in intense discussions; a portion of them expressed their indignance and despise for the countless atrocities Blue Butterfly had committed whereas another portion felt that the True Immortal Alliances interference meant his doom. It was no wonder why he chose to escape to the Confounding Lands, which is the most treacherous and chaotic place on earth, as well as where the alliance possessed the least control over.

Lu Chen stared at the public announcement board for another moment before a strange expression emerged on his face. A moment later, he suddenly sighed and muttered to himself, What a despicable person!

Turning around and leaving the board, Lu Chen headed straight out of the square. Halfway through, a black shadow streaked across and the black dog Ah Tu dived out at random from amidst the crowd. It carried in its mouth a bone it had found somewhere else and there didnt seem to be much meat on it.

Upon seeing Lu Chen, it snuggled up to him immediately, wagging its tail passionately. Then, it placed the bone beneath Lu Chens feet.

Lu Chen rolled his eyes, Ah Tu, how many times have I said? I dont eat this

It was hard to tell whether Ah Tu understood Lu Chens words, but its excitement didnt dampen in the least. Wang wang, it barked happily at Lu Chen.

Shaking his head, Lu Chen briefly patted Ah Tus forehead before continuing forward. Seeing this, Ah Tu hurriedly picked up the bone on the ground and followed behind Lu Chen, gnawing and chewing noisily on the bone.

By the time the duo passed the city gates of Moonfang City, the piece of bone in Ah Tus mouth had already disappeared.

Exiting the city, Lu Chen led Ah Tu southward and unknowingly, they were back outside of the familiar Leaping Tiger Gorge. However, Lu Chen didnt enter the valley passageway this time. Instead, he lifted his head to look at Tiger and Dragon mountains. Then after a moment of contemplation, he turned and entered the dense forest, beginning his scale up Dragon Mountain.

Legend has it that dragons used to frequent the Dragon Mountain. However, such legends are just like those of the Dragon Lake in Clear Water Village; the mere casual talk of predecessors, myths among descendants. The forest on the Dragon Mountain was thick and there wasnt any obvious path that one could follow. Clearly, rarely anyone scaled this mountain.

After an hour of climbing, the duo had yet to make their exit out of the forest. However, they chanced upon a hillock where three to four boulders sat. The surfaces of the boulders were pockmarked, moist, and algae-ridden.

After looking in the direction for a short moment, Lu Chen turned to look at the sky once again. Then, he circled around the boulders and reached an area several zhang higher. Thereafter, he lied prone beside particular tree roots, where he could observe the boulders below.

(1 zhang = 3.33m)

Wagging his tail, Ah Tu plodded beside Lu Chen, its pair of clear eyes reflecting its suspicions. Lu Chen smiled at it before placing a finger before its mouth, signaling for it for remain silent.

Ah Tu slanted its head and lowered its ears down. Unexpectedly, it laid obediently beside Lu Chen.

The forest was extremely quiet, but from time to time, the clear chirping of birds could be heard from the leaves and branches above. One could even faintly hear the few occasional calls of beasts from afar, although it was difficult to discern the type of beast from just these calls.

Lying on the same spot, Lu Chen remained motionless for a long time. His gaze was steady and most of the time, his eyes were fixated on the boulders below.

But nothing happened in this long period of time, Because waiting is a dull and frustrating task, upon exceeding its tolerance, Ah Tu would fidget from time to time, using its paws to touch the fallen leaves below it, stroke its head against Lu Chens body, and sniff about.

Just like that, the forest darkened gradually and the day was about to come to an end.

Bored to death, Ah Tu yawned with its mouth wide open. On the other hand, Lu Chen seemed exceptionally patient. Judging from his look, it appears that he intends to continue waiting.

Soon, night descended and the forest turned completely dark.

Lu Chen picked himself up slowly, observing his surroundings carefully. As he scanned about with his peripheral vision, his body jolted violently. He realized that the pitch-black environment, as well as Ah Tu who was lying next to him, had grown clear to his eyes. A bright green glow lit in his pupils. Appearing as eerie bundles of green flames, they burnt silently within the tranquil darkness.

Lu Chen stretched his hands to stroke Ah Tus forehead. Ah Tu whimpered, seemingly in reply to his gesture.

Following which, Lu Chen stood up and slowly made his way down.

The forest was pitch-dark. Yet, Lu Chen seemed to be able to peer into the darkness; every single footstep he took was exceptionally accurate and stable. In no time, he arrived at the boulders.

He squatted down and placed one hand on the largest boulder while the other reached downward. The moisture from the algae dampened his hand. After fumbling about in the darkness, he retrieved an item from the dark crevice located beneath the boulder.

Tucking it into his clothes, he turned around and left.