Chapter 235: Chapter 234: The layout of the Primordial Continent and Du Gang’s mission! (Please subscribe!)

Translator: 549690339

Even though there is no technology, no phones in the Primordial Continent, there exists something known as Communication Jade Symbol, a device that allows God Spirit level powerhouses to communicate with each other.

“Kong Xu, what’s Uncle Kong Luo’s Communication Jade Symbol number?”

After finding Kong Luo’s communication number, Du Gang quickly dialed it.

“Uncle, have you ever been to the abyss before?”

Du Gang didn’t beat around the bush and asked directly.

Kong Luo was taken aback, he laughed and said, “Of course, I even killed members of the Demon Clan!”

Du Gang was overjoyed, he hastened to ask, “Uncle, is it easy to kill the Demon Clan?”

Kong Luo looked doubtful, “You’re not planning to kill the Demon Clan, are you?”

“Haha, no, I was just asking!”

After a silence of two seconds, Kong Luo shook his head, “The Demon Clan is not easy to kill. Plus, you can’t leave the Ancient City yet.”

Du Gang was taken aback, “Why?”

Kong Luo hesitated for a second, “You should ask Xiang Xinjian about this.”

After hanging up, Du Gang felt that Kong Luo was being mysterious. What did he mean by he wasn’t allowed to leave the Ancient City?

Could it be that the eighteen clans of Penglai didn’t want him to leave?

Du Gang was very confused and went straight to the office area.

Upon reaching Xiang Xinjian’s office, he raised his hand and knocked on the door. He received no answer, but the door was open.

Considering it was a communal office, he didn’t put much thought into it and walked right in.

Upon reaching Xiang Xinjian’s desk, he noticed what seemed to be a newspaper, yet, quite magically, it had moving images.

“Something like a video player?”

Du Gang took a glance and checked the content.

“Today’s News Briefing: Bull Demon King of the Flame Mountain had a big fight with his wife over an alleged mistress…”

Looking at the content, Du Gang had a facial muscle twitch, “So, it’s a gossip paper!”

However, the content on the adjacent panel grabbed his attention.

“Human Ranking: 77th-ranked Iron Hand Zhong Zhen challenged the 69th-ranked Huai Chao; after hundreds of rounds of intense battle, Huai Chao proved to be superior, defending his rank…”

Human Ranking?

He looked upwards and found three links, representing the rankings of Heaven, Earth, and Human.

“He’s here!”

Just then, a voice came from outside the door; it was Xiang Xinjian walking in.

He laughed, “This is a newspaper, a product jointly produced by our Ancient City and the Tianji Pavilion, and is sold throughout the Primordial Continent!”

Du Gang suddenly realized, he thought, this thing does have a universal style to it.

“Not just that, the Communication Jade Symbol and some daily use things are basically all related to our Ancient City…”

Xiang Xinjian laughed, “Although our Ancient City is not powerful, and is at the lower end among the thousand royal families, the products we make are sold all over the continent…”

He noticed the newspaper layout over the page of the ranking, laughing, “Heaven, Earth, Human, these three rankings, represent the powerhouses of Great Power, True God, and God Spirit levels respectively!”

“Each ranking only records the top thousand combatants on the continent, and this combat power is recorded by professionals of Tianji Pavilion, and the accuracy is very high…”

Du Gang was surprised, “The top thousand in the whole continent, doesn’t that mean all of who can make it on this list are all elites?!”

He remembered the Heroes Ranking he heard on Pangu Continent, which was said to be modeled after the Heaven, Earth, Human Rankings.

However, the Heroes Ranking paled in comparison to these Heaven, Earth, Human Rankings.

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “Yes, anyone who makes it onto the list is famous and renowned throughout the continent…”

He paused for a moment, and sighed, “Unfortunately, even though we in the Ancient City are responsible for the daily updates of the Primordial Daily, there is only one person from our side who made it onto the rankings…”

“One person?”

Du Gang curiously asked, “Who is it?”

“Xia Cang!”

Xiang Xinjian sighed, “He is the current patriarch of the Xia Family, a God Spirit of the Ninth Tribulation, just one generation earlier than you, and is the trailblazer of the previous Golden Age…”

“Previous generation?!”

Du Gang was surprised for a moment, remembering that Jiang Tiansheng and Luo Shan, among others, were also elites of the previous generation. However, it seemed they were only at the midlevel of God Spirit.

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “Yes, that’s what makes him terrifying. He broke through to the God Spirit of the Ninth Tribulation in just over five million years and a million years ago, while traveling across the continent, he battled against others, securing Rank 926 on the Human Rankings!”

So strong!

Du Gang quickly opened the Human Ranking and started searching.

“Ranking: 926.”

“Name: Xia Cang.”

“Achievements: …During his journey through the Wind Ancient Town, he encountered the original Rank 926 ‘Huangtu Lishi’ Cheng Wen and rank 988 ‘One Shot to Kill’ Feng Zhao. Demonstrating the supreme magic power of Tyrant Body, he killed ‘One Shot to Kill’ Feng Zhao and severely injured ‘Huangtu Lishi’ Cheng Wen.”

“Rating: Ignores group attacks, the nemesis of long-range attacks.”

“Nickname: Tyrant of Certain Death.”

“Identity: Patriarch of the Xia Family in Penglai Ancient City.”

“Tyrant Body?”

Du Gang was surprised, “Is Tyrant Body this strong?”

He knew that Xiang Yu, the Little Overlord, also had this physique, but didn’t seem to see him being particularly powerful.

“Strong?”

Xiang Xinjian laughed, “Actually, it is quite strong. But think about it, he’s so powerful yet only has Rank 926 on the continent. This means there are over nine hundred people stronger than him…”

He sighed, “Actually, these God races are basically born with divine bodies. They become God Spirits when they reach adulthood, possess various wonderful effects and powers, and are very powerful.”

“And at the top of these are the royal families, who are born with sacred bodies, become Sector Lord level when they mature, and possess various terrifying powers… ”

“Whilst we, the Cosmic Human race, are only of the normal physique. Sacred bodies and divine bodies only occasionally appear after a long time…”

He laughed, “Don’t think there are dozens of special physiques in your generation, these are actually brought out due to the manifestation of the Golden Age…”

“In the previous generation, there were also dozens of people with special physiques like Xia Cang. But in the end, only he managed to make it onto the Human Ranking. It’s not the Tyrant Body that’s powerful, but him!”

Du Gang understood, their special physiques were quite powerful among the Cosmic Human race, but they were only ordinary in the presence of these God and royal races.

To stand out among these races and achieve a rank in the Human Ranking is indeed very difficult, this indirectly reveals the strength of Xia Cang.

After Xiang Xinjian finished speaking, he smiled lightly and said, “Alright. These rankings are too far beyond your reach right now. We’ll talk about it when you reach the Nine Tribulations God Spirit Level!”

“Now, tell me why you were looking for me!”

Hearing this, Du Gang reined in his thoughts and organized his words before saying, “Teacher, I plan to go to the Abyss to undertake a task of hunting the Demon Clan, so I wanted to ask you, how strong is this Demon Clan?!”

Xiang Xinjian was silent.

After a long moment, he said, “You definitely can’t undertake the task, but I can tell you how strong the Demon Clan is!”

“The Abyss that we are guarding is made up of eighteen layers. The first six layers primarily consist of Demon Clans of God Spirit Level. Just the first layer consists of First and Second Tribulation Demon Clan members, even a few of the Third Tribulation. So, there is huge risk and danger involved if you decide to go…”

However, Du Gang picked up on what Xiang Xinjian had said earlier about him not being able to undertake the task and frowned, “Teacher, you just said that I can’t take the task, what do you mean by that?!”

Was this differential treatment?

He wasn’t allowed to pass?

Xiang Xinjian hesitated for a moment before responding, “Du Gang, this matter is indeed related to you. I thought to wait until your power is sufficient or wait until a year is past to tell you, but since you’re asking now, I’ll tell you in advance!”

“It’s related to me?”

Du Gang frowned and quickly said, “Teacher, please speak!”

Xiang Xinjian nodded, saying, “The reason I don’t let you go out is to protect you!”

“Protect me?!”

Du Gang raised an eyebrow, saying, “Who wants to harm me? The Jiang Family?”

He recalled Yao Zixuan saying that enmity between the Jiang family and him wasn’t that serious, it was primarily to resolve karma.

Xiang Xinjian shook his head, “It’s not the Jiang Family, actually…”

He hesitated, but ultimately decided to tell the truth, “The Jiang Family doesn’t actually want to kill you, it’s just…”

After hearing this, Du Gang nodded and said, “I know that. Teacher, you said earlier, who wants to harm me!”

Xiang Xinjian nodded, slowly explained, “Before I tell you that, I may have to tell you somethings about the past!”

“After Pangu created the world, your Ancient Race went through a catastrophe!”

“A catastrophe?”

Du Gang’s expression became serious, and he straightened up, preparing to listen attentively.

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “Yes, a catastrophe, which is related to the curse of your Ancient Race!”

“At that time, all of the new generation Ancient Gods were cursed. They were unable to advance to eternity and generally died in the Ancient God Tribulation…”

“And the old generation Ancient Gods did not escape either. It is said that very horrifying events happened at that time and an ominous incident occurred…”

“Ominous…”

Du Gang touched his right eye and felt the cloud pattern on it, muttering to himself.

He didn’t know what that ominous thing was, but he knew it wasn’t something even a being of the True God Level could seal for long. It could only be sealed for a hundred years, and that was probably only because the power within this eyeball had not awakened.

“And then what?”

Xiang Xinjian pondered for two seconds before saying, “Afterwards, some of the Ancient Gods betrayed their clan…”

“Betrayed the clan?”

Du Gang frowned, confused by this term.

“Isn’t this curse inherited along with the bloodline?”

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “It is, but it’s said that at that time, a wise man from the Primordial Continent performed a certain ceremony on a group of people who, if they met certain requirements, could escape the curse!”

Escape the curse!

Du Gang’s pupils contracted, “What was it?”

Xiang Xinjian sighed, “As you may have guessed… by betraying their own kin!”

“As long as the Ancient Gods kill their own kind, they can escape the curse!”

Upon saying this, he stopped and the room fell silent.

Du Gang frowned and asked, “Are these people still alive?”

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “The ancient gods who fled after betrayal are referred to by us as the ancient demons. Some of them joined the forces of the wise man, while others formed a killer organization… the Demon Realm!”

“Demon Realm…”

After a long time, Du Gang asked hoarsely, “What kind of force is this wise man’s force?”

Xiang Xinjian began, “Du Gang, I think it’s time to tell you about the situation of the Primordial Continent!”

“The Primordial Continent is vast. Although it is not as exaggerated as the universe, it still covers a very large area…”

“According to geographical divisions, the Primordial Continent is divided into five regions: Central State, Northern Plains, Southern Wilderness, Eastern Ridge, and Western Desert.”

“Our Ancient City is located in the Southern Wilderness…”

“Southern Wilderness…” Du Gang muttered.

Xiang Xinjian continued, “As for the division of power, it’s not as simple as I said before…”

“Your understanding of the Primordial Continent should all come from Penglai Island, right?”

“Penglai island uses the familial power as the foundation and thus told you about the top hundred divine clans and thousand sovereign clans. But in reality, they only account for only a part of the Primordial Continent!”

He said seriously, “In fact, they have made some misunderstandings. The Primordial Continent not only has these divine and sovereign clans, but also contains races that count in the tens of millions. Among them are races like our human race who continuously cultivate in order to become God Spirits…”

“In fact, these minor clans form the majority, in such numbers that they can’t be counted!”

“Apart from our clans, there are other powerful forces on the Primordial Continent. These are forces that dominate their respective regions!”

Dominate their regions?

Du Gang frowned, Could there exist forces stronger than the top hundred divine clans?

Xiang Xinjian solemnly said, “Specifically, there are one Dynasty, two Pavilions, three Temples, four Sects, five Colleges, six Palaces, seven Schools, eight Paths, and nine Leagues, collectively forty-five major forces!”

“These forces are all famous throughout the continent and possess formidable toe-dipping power!”

Du Gang frowned, then quickly asked, “How do these forces compare to the top hundred divine clans?”

Xiang Xinjian pondered for a moment before speaking, “In the past, the Primordial Continent basically only acknowledged the top hundred divine clans and thousand sovereign clans as the strongest forces…”

“However, after the Supreme One disappeared, these forces began to rise. They did not discriminate against who they would teach. As long as you comply with their teachings, you can be accepted. Now, our top hundred divine clans and the top thousand sovereign clans combined can barely compete with these forty-five major forces…”

“However, this is only speculation. In reality, the two sides have never waged war, or rather, the two sides are consciously controlling their actions…”

“The old and new generations are like products of two different eras. They have met now and a war may be in the future, but not now…”

Xiang Xinjian shook his head, “Right now, everyone gets along quite well and there is cooperation.”

“Our ancient city cooperates with one of the two pavilions, the Tianji Pavilion. Moreover, we also collaborate with the Holy Confucian Academy…”

Du Gang curiously asked, “Master, among these forces, who are stronger and who are weaker?”

Xiang Xinjian replied without hesitation, “The strongest is the Jiuli Dynasty, located in the Central State. It not only occupies a whole province of the Central State but even sets its sights on the other four realms alike, constantly interfering…”

“Next comes the two mysterious pavilions, the Tianji Pavilion and the Butian Pavilion. Tianji Pavilion is said to be the successor to the mysterious door, with mastery over the secrets of the universe…”

“Butian Pavilion, in contrast, is said to have separated from the Tianji Pavilion and now resides in Central State…”

“Following those, there are three Buddhist temples which you must have heard of. Have you heard the saying, all martial arts skills originate from the Shaolin Temple?”

“The number one Buddhist temple is the Shaolin Temple. Some of its disciples defected and created the Diamond Temple, which is the second largest temple. Aside from these two, there’s also the Shuijing Temple, where all the nuns reside…”

Xiang Xinjian sighed and remarked, “These individuals chose to dedicate themselves to the monastic life even though they’re all so attractive, I can’t understand… although it’s a good thing that they are predominantly located in the Western Desert, so our interactions with them are minimal…”

Du Gang suddenly asked, “Master, where do the demon domain and the previously mentioned experts rank among these forces?”

Xiang Xinjian began, “The demon domain is one of the Eight Evil Paths, located in the southern wilderness, but it’s hidden so well that no one can find it…”

“As for the ones who persuaded the Ancient God and provided a solution to lift his curse, they are from the Mystic Feather Palace, based in Central State. It is said they have some connection with Butian Pavilion…”

“The Mystic Feather Palace…The Demon Domain…”

Mumbling, Du Gang repeated the names of the two forces severally, savoring each word.

Xiang Xinjian understood his intentions. He knew Du Gang sought to plot revenge against these factions, shook his head and advised him, “In the future, if you do not become a king, it would be best not to head to Central State…”

Du Gang was startled, he asked, “Why?”

Xiang Xinjian explained, “Of these forty-five forces, though all independent, some speculate that those based in Central State have all submitted to the Jiuli Dynasty…”

“For instance, Xuanmen Butian Pavilion, Fomen Diamond Temple, Daomen Seven-Star Sect — all defected from their original sects and have received strong support from the Jiuli Dynasty…”

“In addition to these, one of the Five Academies, the God Wind Academy, also resides in Central State. Among the Six Palaces, there’s the Mystic Feather Palace, the Lingxin Sword Sect from the Seven Sword Sects, and one of the Eight Evil Paths, the Dream Building…”

“Dream Building… you should be careful of this force. It’s widespread, with branches in many places, it is a place of immense wealth…”

“Lastly, one of the nine leagues, the Five Elements League… In short, in Central State, you have got all kinds of forces collected in a single sweep, nothing you desire is unavailable…”

Xiang Xinjian gravely said, “According to the people of Tianji Pavilion, the Jiuli Dynasty has a great ambition and might aim to unify the world…”

“So, as the Mystic Feather Palace is located in Central State, it must be under the protection of the Jiuli Dynasty. Therefore, if you plan to mess with them in the future, be prepared to battle against the entire Central State!”

He had great confidence in Du Gang. After all, he had overcome the Ancient God Tribulation and his potential was immeasurable.

“The reason I am telling you this is that these ancient demons, who have either joined or established these forces, will inevitably stand against you…”

“You are an Ancient God, they are Ancient Demons, their hands are stained with the blood of Ancient Gods…”

“And you are the last descendant of the Ancient Gods, as well as the only one in over billions of years, to have passed through the Ancient God Tribulation!”

“This suggests, your future achievements could be tremendous…”

“It also means you could be the last hope of the Ancient Gods, and with control over the Time Force, the Supreme Pangu may harbor hopes for you…”

“That being said, those ancient demons who have betrayed the Ancient Gods, and even turned their swords against their own kind, will surely try to annihilate you before you’ve fully grown!”

Xiang Xinjian seriously advised, “As long as you stay in the ancient city, you’ll be safe. Here, we have the deities of the eighteen elder clans guarding the city, as well as various powerful arrays. Even if the ancient demons are powerful, there’s no way they can break in…”

“However, if you were to venture out of the ancient city and into the abyss, it won’t be safe. Although the ancestors of the eighteen clans are also in the abyss, they need to guard the eighteen layers of hell against the Demon Clan. They cannot spare much attention for anything else, so…”

“So, that’s how it is!”

Du Gang suddenly laughed.

“So, my real enemy is the Ancient Demon, the Demon realm they created, and the Mystic Feather Palace?”

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “Before, they all thought that you might not be able to survive the Ancient God Tribulation, so no one told you too much. But now, you have come to the Primordial Continent, which is equivalent to walking into their line of sight. This means you can’t hide anymore…”

“The news of the Ancient God’s return to the continent must have spread. Although for most people, it’s but a forlorn race from ancient times. However, to the Ancient Demons, you are more than that – in their eyes, you are a deadly poison, a harbinger of their doom!”

Du Gang frowned, “Does that mean I can never leave the Ancient City in my entire life?”

Xiang Xinjian shook his head, “No, I meant you can’t leave now, not that you can’t leave at all…”

“You are an Ancient God, with your own destiny. Similarly, you are where the great fortunes lie…”

“The eighteen clans mean to say that once you have kindled three Divine Fires, you are free to travel anywhere…”

“To light the three Divine Fires means that you would be able to conceal your Divine Thought. At that time, if you change your appearance and disguise yourself, you can avoid some spies…”

Du Gang frowned, “But my Divine Fire is now hidden. If I want to light it, I need the help of Rune Stones…”

He coughed slightly, “Master, can you lend me two Rune Stones? I’ll pay you back when I have the money!”

Just two Rune Stones, that’s just 20,000 Divine Crystals, or 200 million Sacred Crystals. If he still had seventy billion Sacred Crystals from before, he wouldn’t need to borrow any.

Xiang Xinjian smiled faintly, “No, even if I had them, I wouldn’t lend them. I never lend money!”

Du Gang laughed, “Master, how about two for three repayment? When I have money, I’ll surely give it back to you!”

The measly two hundred million Sacred Crystals, I used to make seventy billion Sacred Crystals…

Xiang Xinjian calmly said, “Don’t even think it, I know how you made that seventy billion Sacred Crystals.”

“The academy has rules against you doing such things as kidnapping people anymore…”

“Ah!”

Du Gang sighed.

I wonder if five returned for two could get me the loan, this profit margin is explosive, any clever man would know what choice to make…

Xiang Xinjian was speechless for a moment, “You’re doing this on purpose, aren’t you? I told you, I won’t lend, even if it’s a repayment of thirteen for two, I still won’t lend!”

Is this ever going to end, does he really think I enjoy snooping on other people’s secrets?

Seeing Du Gang still hesitating, looking as if he wanted to stay but also wanted to leave, lost in thought, Xiang Xinjian cursed irritably, “Get lost, stay put and finish the first-year coursework!”

Seeing him getting angry, Du Gang didn’t dare to think too much and left quickly.

“Ah, not being able to go to the Abyss really is giving me a headache!”

Right now, Du Gang was really worried about how to ignite his Divine Fire. As for the Ancient Demon, he wasn’t too concerned. Given his current strength, overthinking was pointless. He could only wait for opportunities in the future to take his revenge.

“Not allowed to go to the Abyss, so how am I supposed to make money?!”

“And there’s the Ancient Demon threat outside…”

“This means, at least, I need 20,000 Divine Crystals to light the third Divine Fire…”

Suddenly, he burst into laughter.

“Damn, I really am chosen by the Supreme Pangu’s strategy!”

He was now exhilarated, feeling very proud of himself.

“With the likes of Supreme Pangu, his goals should be more than just saving the Ancient God, right?”

“After all, when he created the world, his motive was not his own survival, but the welfare of the entire human race…”

“Pangu’s plan must be aimed at saving the Primordial Continent…”

“So, I am the chosen one!”

“I am the savior!”

“Opening with a demand of twenty thousand divine crystals puts me in a tight spot!”

Long Aotian smacked his lips, speaking absentmindedly.

Borrowing money from me?

I never took you to account for the money you robbed from me, yet you dare to ask for a loan?

Du Gang laughed, “I am the savior, the chosen one. If you lend me money, I’ll let you shine and fly with me…”

This kid was supposed to be innocent. How did he suddenly become so cautious?

Long Aotian chuckled, “Sorry, I too am the chosen one. I don’t need you to show off, I can do that on my own!”

Playing this game with me?

I was playing it when you didn’t even know about it!

No, when I was messing around, you probably hadn’t been born yet!

He remembered that Du Gang was only about one hundred years old, much younger than him.

“What are you looking at?”

Du Gang noticed that Long Aotian was holding something similar to a newspaper.

Long Aotian smiled, “Didn’t you know?”

“The Holy Confucian Academy is sending some freshmen like us to interact with us in a couple of days…”

“Interact?”

Du Gang was perplexed, “What’s there to interact about? Didn’t we just get here?”

What can a bunch of people who haven’t kindled their divine fire have to share with each other?

Isn’t it more appropriate for the exchange to take place between the more powerful individuals of the two academies?

Long Aotian grinned, “They call it an exchange, but it’s actually recruitment…”

“Holy Confucian Academy is a prestigious academy in our Southern Wilderness, and it’s not so far from our Ancient City…”

“Although it doesn’t matter, they usually send freshmen to interact with various internal clans to attract enrollment…”

Du Gang was taken aback and furrowed his brow. “Are there people from our South City going over there?”

Isn’t South City composed of a coalition of noble families?

Long Aotian grinned, “Of course, some smaller clans prefer to send their offspring to the Holy Confucian Academy for training…”

“Not only they, but even our 18 large clans have sent some disciples to the Holy Confucian Academy to study…”

Du Gang frowned, “And what’s the academy’s attitude about this?”

Long Aotian was taken aback but quickly replied, “Of course, they’re reluctant. Although our Penglai Academy is not well-known and is only popular within our city limits – occasionally other smaller clans send people – since we’re an academy, we obviously don’t want our people stolen!”

Du Gang’s eyes lit up as he asked, “Do you think I could make any money if I kidnap these students from the Holy Confucian Academy?”

Xiang Xinjian won’t let him kidnap these clan disciples, but he didn’t say he couldn’t kidnap people from the Holy Confucian Academy.

Long Aotian shrugged and shook his head, “How would I know? But not all the students from the Holy Confucian Academy come from well-off families. Even if you kidnap them, you might not extract much ransom…”

“What is there to fear? If I kidnap their students, won’t their teachers have to pay something?”

Long Aotian shook his head, “Aren’t you thinking too much? I have a feeling that as soon as you capture someone, the academy will start pressuring us…”

Du Gang sneered, “Who said I was going to kidnap people so blatantly?”

He continued, “When I was kidnapping you all, did I leave an IOU?”

Long Aotian was stunned, “Yes…”

“And did I film it when I was kidnapping you all?”

“Yes…”

Long Aotian screwed up his face, he feared that this guy might actually pull it off.

“So?”

Du Gang smirked, “Do you want to partake? Be decisive about it as such opportunities only come once, and they might not work in the future…”

Hearing these words, Long Aotian’s eyes lit up. Du Gang wasn’t scared, why should he be?

Du Gang has no backing, but he does. His father is a Great Power. Even if something goes wrong, he should be fine!

“Let’s do it!”

Long Aotian slapped his thigh, clearly excited.

“I might have a chance to make a name for myself this time…”

Du Gang was speechless. All we are doing is setting a trap for some freshmen from the Holy Confucian Academy, how is that making a name for oneself?

However, he didn’t dissuade Long Aotian. After all, he needed Long Aotian’s financial backing.

“Brother Long, I think we can still use the wager method with them…”

“Going undercover is not easy to manage. Let’s just do it out in the open, openly mock them, and then place a wager…”

Long Aotian frowned, “Like this?”

Soon, he relaxed, “This works too. At least it’s all above board, and we can brag about our achievements later…”

Du Gang coughed, “So, how much can you contribute? The more, the better!”

Long Aotian looked at him warily, “Let me make it clear first, I am not lending you money…”

Du Gang smiled, “Don’t worry, I am not asking for a loan. We’ll merely split their money. For now, tell me how much you can afford to contribute…”

Long Aotian quickly closed his eyes and meditated, deep in thought tallying his assets.

Soon, he reopened his eyes and announced, “It’s not a lot. I reckon I can contribute around one thousand divine crystals’ worth of possessions…”

“One thousand divine crystals?”

Du Gang frowned, “Isn’t that too little?!”

He needed at least twenty thousand divine crystals. How much could he make from a thousand? After dividing the spoils, there certainly wouldn’t be enough.

Long Aotian chuckled, “Isn’t 1000 Divine Crystals quite a lot? Making 1000 off 1000…”

Du Gang glanced at him, sneered contemptuously, “Look at your small-mindedness. 1000 Divine Crystals, which is equivalent to 10 million Saint Crystals, were just pocket change for me back then…”

Long Aotian didn’t bother arguing with him further.

Didn’t he have a clue where his own Saint Crystals came from?

If it wasn’t for your Ancient God status, could you have earned that many Saint Crystals?!

Du Gang shook his head, “No, 1000 Divine Crystals certainly won’t do, it’s too little, not worth it. We need to pull more people in!”

“Pull in more people?!”

Long Aotian shook his head, “We can’t pull in too many. It’s easier for things to get exposed if we do, and what if the people we pull in are weak and can’t win the fight?”

Du Gang contemplated for a moment, admitting that it made sense. He then nodded and said, “Alright, we just pull in around ten people, all of whom must possess special physical conditions…”

If they don’t possess special physical conditions, let alone the ones who do exhibit phenomena, they are simply available for free.

Besides, students who are from Long Aoshi’s native batch cannot be involved. What would they do if they were to betray them or stab them from behind?

“This plan of ours must remain a secret, even those who will be joining us should not be informed, understood?”

Long Aotian laughed heartily, “Don’t worry, my lips are famously sealed. Unless you let the news out, my end is absolutely reliable!”

Du Gang nodded, “Alright, it’s settled then. I need to go and get in contact with those people, so I’ll be off…”

After Du Gang left, Long Aotian broke into a smile, finally having found a lucrative scheme.

Kidnapping is the best, as for Long Aotian saying he won’t lend, that’s up to him. Once it’s in his hands, he will conceal it in his internal world, he has to lend whether he likes it or not.

Just as Du Gang was about to search for others, Xiang Xinjian messaged him, asking him to come over.

He had just left and now being asked to return, what’s that about?

With his face filled with puzzlement, Du Gang made his way back to Xiang Xinjian’s office.

“Mentor, you wanted to see me?!”

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “Yes, I have a good opportunity for you!”

He laughed, “A week from now, teachers from the Holy Confucian Academy will bring students from each grade level to visit our academy. I took up the duty of reception on your behalf. Ten merits are awarded for this, and you must put on a good show. Don’t mess up!”

Ten merits, unbelievable…

Du Gang quickly cleared his mind, joyfully responding, “Thank you, Mentor Xiang, I will definitely do this job well!”

Xiang Xinjian laughed, “Ten merits, there’s nothing you can’t aspire to, so feel free to aspire! Get ready, they will arrive at eight o’clock in the morning a week from now…”

“Okay!”

Du Gang looked delighted, inquiring, “Mentor, is there anything else?”

“Yes!”

Xiang Xinjian started, “During the practical class later on, since you can’t open your Hidden God Acupoint or ignite divine fire anyway, why not help Old Liu with some chores? Clean up the entrance and change the signboard while you’re at it…”

He laughed, “This comes with merits too, one merit point specifically. Don’t worry, wherever I can, I’ll look out for you…”

Looking at his bald head, Du Gang didn’t dare think too much, quickly agreeing, “Alright, mentor, if there’s nothing else, can I leave now?!”

“Yes!”

Xiang Xinjian nodded, “You may go. Speaking of which, I quite like your suggestion of taking a break every fifty minutes. I can use this opportunity to read some newspapers and keep up with world affairs…”

Du Gang hastily left the office area, convincing Xiang Xinjian that he was an industrious student.

However, once Du Gang left the office area, he finally launched into his tirade.

Just ten merits, does he think that’s something I’d be thrilled about?

And even allocating cleaning chores to me, promising just one merit point for that.

If I weren’t afraid of blowing my cover and letting him know that I’m planning to rob those Confucian scholars, would I have agreed to do that?

“Whom are you planning to rob?”

Suddenly, an old voice from the side chimed in.

Du Gang froze, his lips twitching as he stared blankly at the gatekeeper, Old Liu. He asked, “You… You’re a True God?”

Old Liu nonchalantly replied, “Well, what else? After all, I’m in charge of guarding the Penglai Academy. If I didn’t have True God-level strength, wouldn’t it be a disgrace?”

A disgrace?!!!

Du Gang glanced at the sign of the Penglai College hanging on the gate, speechless.

“Kid, you still haven’t answered me, who are you planning to rob?”

Even though Old Liu looked old, his memory was sharp. He laughed and asked again.

Du Gang laughed it off, “Nah, I was just kidding, I won’t rob anyone…”

Old Liu chuckled, “Alright then, I guess I’ll just tell Xiang Xinjian about what you’ve just thought…”

“Don’t!”

Du Gang immediately begged for mercy,”Mentor Liu, don’t do this, can’t we talk this out?”

Should he try bribing?

Could a bribe work?!

But, he had no money right now…

“You’re thinking of bribing me without having any money?”

Old Liu looked at him disdainfully, taunting, “You, with such faint-hearted whims, if you don’t have money, don’t even think about these cheeky tricks!”

“Spill it out, how are you planning to rob those Confucian scholars?”

Left with no option, Du Gang began to spill out his plan.

At the same time, he solemnly spoke, “Mentor, I have my reasons!”

“I have the Ancient Demon as my enemy out there, with their demon domains eagerly watching me nearby and the formidable Mystic Feather Palace in the distance. I feel like there’s a sword hanging over my head…”

“But now, I basically have no way to practice, my Hidden God Acupoint and Hidden Divine Fire can’t be opened, and without rune stones, there’s no way to ignite the second and third Divine Fires…”

“Without igniting the third Divine Fire, I can’t conceal my Divine Thought and therefore can’t hide it, nor can I venture into the abyss to make money, let alone grow…”

“Alright, alright!”

Old Liu interjected impatiently, “Quit your whining! I’ve heard enough of your rumors. As soon as you arrived at Pangu Continent, you kidnapped over 300 of their creme de la creme, forcefully demanding ransom…”

“Later on, you did not spare students from the top eighteen clans like Long Aotian and Little Hawk King. You kidnapped them one by one…”

“And the fact that you’re now pretending, like how Jiang Tiansheng was fooled into paying nearly 18 million for a divine herb, has been a hot topic here for several days…”

Du Gang rendered speechless, irritated by whoever it was that took it upon themselves to broadcast his deeds all over the place.

But then again, perhaps that means I’m also a public figure?

Old Liu grinned and said: “As far as robbing scholars go, it has nothing to do with me. All I do is guard the gate, and if Penglai Academy stinks or not is none of my business… ”

“However, it could be interesting if I were to end up catching you…”

From these words, Du Gang understood. He quickly demonstrated his willingness and said, “Teacher, speak your mind. As long as it isn’t anything against morals, against my dignity, or involving selling my body or soul, I’ll undoubtedly help you out… ”

“Bugger off! What the hell would I need your body for?”

Old Liu smack him on the shoulder, clearly frustrated.

Immediately, Du Gang held his shoulder, his mouth wide open in pain. “That was a little harsh!”

Old Liu snorted disdainfully and said: “I don’t need you for much, just clean up this place, replace the signboard, and hang up some banners or something… ”

“As long as you get all this done right, my lips are sealed, and I won’t tell a soul!”

Du Gang brightened at these words and eagerly said, “Teacher, put your mind at ease. I’ll definitely get it all done for you!”

It’s just some chores. No big deal.

As long as I can keep my robbing spree going!

Watching Du Gang get to work, Old Liu then lay back down in his chair, suppressing a chuckle.

What a bandit this kid is, always thinking about robbery wherever he goes.

He wondered how the previous generation’s Ancient God found such a guy to give their inheritance to.

But, it’s actually quite amusing.

The ancient city has been quiet for so many years, it’s about time it rises to prominence again, right?!

Old Liu squinted his eyes, reminiscing about the brilliant times a billion years ago.

That was when the ancient city of Penglai was at its most famous.

An Ancient Holy Body, who came out from the cosmos, fought its way across the entire Primordial Continent and became renowned worldwide.

If only…

Sigh!

With a sigh, he shook his head, not wanting to think further.

Looking at Du Gang’s diligent figure, he pondered.

Can this generation’s Ancient God reach the same level as the Ancient Holy Body from back then… or even take that extra step forward?!

It should… be possible, right?

The Supreme Pangu, who can see the River of Time, must have foreseen the future and calculated everything…

Forget it, this is way beyond me. As I age day by day, I even start to worry about the fate of the world.

I must be such a kind-hearted person!

Old Liu couldn’t help but praise himself. Even his rocking chair seems to be moving faster.

Oh, darn…

Can’t think!

This constant movement…

Can’t think!

Du Gang was on the verge of going mad at this point. Thoughts that should have been free went around uncontrolled and now felt trapped inside him as he couldn’t even think properly.

Damn! I need to reach the Three Divine Fires stage as soon as possible. Then I can resist people spying on my Divine Thoughts.

I can’t even enjoy a bit of privacy!

Du Gang worked fast. Unable to let his mind wander, he focused his attention on how to clean up the courtyard, which reminded him of a preschool playground, and how to groom it to look more impressive.

Soon after a flurry of activities, the dilapidated Penglai Academy was transformed into how Du Gang imagined a preschool would be, complete with colorful decorations.

“What’s the meaning of all these colors you’ve painted on the wall?”

Old Liu curiously asked, as he had never seen this sort of architectural style before.

Ahem!

Du Gang laughed and said: “It symbolizes inclusivity. Our Penglai Academy doesn’t just admit students from Penglai. We accept students from all other forces as well. These colors represent our diverse students and diverse views…”

Old Liu nodded, approvingly saying, “Good, very imaginative and creative!”

Then he queried again: “And what about these cartoon figures you’ve drawn on the wall?”

Du Gang laughed and said: “Well, I considered the different ages of our students, so it wouldn’t be appropriate to draw adults. This is to say that no matter how old we are, we should learn all our lives. Even when we’re old, we should maintain a childlike mindset, an innocent heart, and an open mind…”

Old Liu’s eyes lit up at this. He cleared his throat, quickly took out a Sound Keeping Stone, and said, “Repeat what you just said!”

Du Gang twitched by the corner of his mouth, once again speechless.

Just what is he up to now?

“Just recite, there’s no need for so much backtalk!”

Du Gang could only comply. The situation was against him. Resignedly maintaining his passionate state, he fervently repeated his statement.

“Hmm!”

Old Liu nodded approvingly, “Well performed, quite good. Besides, why is the cartoon figure you’ve drawn holding hands?”

Again, Du Gang explained: “The meaning is simple. Human survival and development can’t depend solely on one person. We have to unite. Just like now, when all the forces in Penglai Island have set aside their grudges to jointly construct this Penglai Academy. This is the spirit of unity…”

“Great!”

Old Liu nodded again, “Very good, kid. You did a splendid job. I’m quite satisfied. Now, go and replace that signboard…”

“Roger that!”

Du Gang answered and left without looking back.

“Hey, do you know where to buy a signboard?”

Old Liu didn’t manage to stop him because Du Gang had already taken off like a bullet.

All he could do was shake his head and chuckle, “This youngster, he’s quite efficient when he gets to work.”

Moments later, a now-distant Du Gang finally released a sigh of relief.

He had to keep running. If he didn’t, he might not have been able to suppress his laughter.

After all, Penglai Academy’s new look is conceptually borrowed from Earth’s preschool premises.

Who could blame him for still feeling sore from the old geezer’s slap, serves him right!

With a jumbled mess of thoughts, Du Gang quickly realized he was lost.

“Where am I?”

At this moment, he was standing at a crossroads, having no memory of where he came from.

He had been so caught up in his thoughts that he unwittingly took a wrong turn.

This was his first time leaving Penglai Academy since coming to the Primordial Continent.

When he arrived here, he went straight to the academy, completely unaware of the layout of the ancient city, only knowing that it was densely packed and that everyone lived in space portals.

Gazing at the deserted streets, Du Gang found himself at a loss for words.

“Isn’t there even a simple street stall or shop?”

“Or maybe I am in the wrong place?”

“Forget it, I’ll ask someone for directions!”

Sure enough, a man stumbling down the road quickly came into view.

“Drinking so heavily in broad daylight?”

Stunned, Du Gang didn’t think much, approached the man and inquired, “Hello, I’m a student from Penglai Academy, could you tell me where to buy signboards?”

“Penglai Academy?”

The man was taken aback, but quickly regained some clarity and pointed towards the direction he came, “If you’re looking for signboards, go there, just follow this road…”

“Ugh~~!”

Du Gang quickly dodged, looking at the man’s wine-soaked, muzzy state, he decided against prying further.

So, he proceeded in the direction the man indicated.

The road was still deserted, all the houses on either side were shut tight and didn’t have any signboards to indicate their purpose.

Soon enough, as he followed the road, a bustling chatter reached him from afar.

“People!”

Du Gang was delighted, he hastened his steps towards the noise.

Before long, he arrived at a place that looked like a tavern.

“Dream Building?”

Du Gang stared blankly at a three-story tavern, significantly more luxurious than the other buildings.

This appeared to be the Dream Building that Xiang Xinjian mentioned before, one of the Eight Evil Ways which held headquarters in Central State.

Had they set a branch in the ancient city?

Although they were known as the Eight Evil Ways, they were quite brazen. Didn’t anyone object?

Du Gang was somewhat puzzled.

“Forget it, what’s it got to do with me? This kind of power is not something the ancient city can mess with!”

He had inferred from Xiang Xinjian’s words, once upon a time, the 100 God Clans and 1000 King Clans governed the Primordial Continent.

However, after the disappearances of the Supremes, these factions began to rise.

Now, they even surpassed the world families subtly.

Furthermore, these organizations, are among the 45 strongest organizations, which were equivalent to the God Clans and King Clans. This meant that each of these organizations was equivalent to two God Clans and twenty King Clans.

However, Penglai, or the ancient city occupied by the cosmic human race, were barely equivalent to a King Clan, a bottom-ranked one at that.

Looking at it this way, it is perfectly normal that they didn’t dare to mess with the Dream Building!

“Though, this building does seem imposing, I assume the expenses won’t be low, would they?!”

Nevertheless, now that I’ve finally found people, I should look for someone inside and ask about where I can purchase a signboard.

I don’t need to consume anything, shouldn’t be a problem, right?

Du Gang paused for a moment at the entrance before stepping in. He approached the middle-aged lady at the front desk and politely asked, “Hello, I’m a student from Penglai Academy, do you know where I can get a signboard?”

The middle-aged lady may have had a thick layer of makeup on, but Du Gang could see from her facial features and contours that she must have been a beauty in her youth. She replied, smilingly, “Yes, we have signboards here, let me show you…”

Hearing these words, Du Gang was overjoyed, “That’s great, the signboard at our academy is quite worn out, we need to replace it…”

“Worn out?”

The lady brow furrowed in confusion before smiling, “It’s about time to change the taste…”

She swiftly guided Du Gang through a corridor, up the stairs, and onto the second floor.

“Soul-taking Pavilion?”

Du Gang gaped at the plaque on the lintel.

“Have you taken a fancy to this one?”

The lady smiled at him and said, “Then please, go ahead!”

Du Gang was taken aback again, he seemed to have realized something.

“I…I came to buy a signboard…”

The lady laughed, “Our pavilion is the signboard, don’t be shy, go on in…”

With that, she gave a slight shove to Du Gang’s waist and even ran her forefinger over his butt.

“Oh!”

Du Gang hadn’t expected the short woman to have such strength. He was shoved straight into the room.

This so-called Soul-taking Pavilion was located in a world behind a space portal.

Before him, a sultry, pink door draped with silk brocade was wide open. Behind it was a thin silk veiling that was thrown over a canopy on the bed. The veil looked as if it were to block the wind, but it had a high level of transparency, giving a glimpse of the scene inside.

A vague, seductive figure was seated in the background.

“Gentleman, the wind is strong at the entrance, why not step inside and chat for a while?”

A songbird-like voice reached him, accompanied by a refreshing scent of wine. Unaware if it was the smell that intoxicated him or the voice that stimulated him, Du Gang involuntarily shivered.

Damn it, how did I end up here?!

No way, I am a decent man…

“Is the gentleman scared of me?”

Hearing this, Du Gang, who had originally turned around, turned back again.

“Afraid of you?”

Heh-heh, even though I’m broke, I’m representing Penglai Academy, can’t lose face.

Thinking this, Du Gang puffed out his chest and lifted his head, marching boldly into the interior.

Walking around the tent revealed a charming woman inside.

Her skin was smooth like cream, her neck white and flawless, her fragrant shoulders and the upper part of her chest were exposed, her black hair was bundled high, and her face was all smiles, all signaling that she was ready for him.

This woman was seductive…

Du Gang hadn’t seen this level of allure in reality before. Even the little videos he sneaked a peek at didn’t feature such an alluring woman.

For a moment, he couldn’t control himself and he involuntarily thought of the moistness he had seen on Yu Shuiyao’s chest when he was running before…

Seeing Du Gang looking like this, the woman covered her mouth and giggled.

“Young man, is it your first time here?”

Listening to her seductive words, Du Gang felt his forehead burning…

Motherf***…

I …

Should I let my little brother have a go?

I’m over a hundred years old, isn’t it time I do mature things?!

After thinking it over several times, Du Gang’s heartbeat quickened, inhaling the fragrance in the air, he felt an urge to pounce.

Wait…

He was suddenly struck still.

Do I have money?

I don’t have any money…

Can I… get away without paying?

No!

Being a grown man, how can I do this?

She’s already been through so much, forced into doing this, and I want to exploit her. Am I still human?

Besides…

Why the hell did I mention my affiliation with the Penglai Academy when I entered?

Isn’t that just inviting trouble?

Even if I don’t pay, she could always try to get the money from the academy, do I want to save face or not?!

Realizing that he couldn’t get away without paying, Du Gang took a deep breath, pressuring his numerous unhealthy impulses, said lightly: “I apologize, miss…”

“The slave’s name is ‘Soul Capturing’, how should I address the young master?”

Listening to this seductive voice, Du Gang was once again torn in his mind.

Damnit!

Hold it together!

It would be a moment of pleasure for junior, but senior would have to pay for it later…

Once again resisting his inner and bodily urges, Du Gang calmly said: “I’m sorry Soul Capturing Girl, I’d like to change the room…”

Having said that, he didn’t look back and quickly made for the exit.

If he didn’t leave now, he felt he really couldn’t control himself, this woman was too seductive…

Watching his figure, Soul Capturing girl furrowed her brows.

“Am I not attractive enough?”

“No, he was clearly provoked…”

Why?!

Soul Capturing didn’t know, but in all her years, and all her time at the Drunken Fragrance Building, she had never met a man who could walk away from her.

“Did he finish so quickly?!”

The matron, who hadn’t gone far, was taken aback. Realizing Du Gang hadn’t even started yet, she asked, puzzled: “Young man, were you unsatisfied with Soul Capturing?”

Du Gang forced an awkward but gracious smile, “An urgent matter, the academy summoned me, I have to go back and will return another time.”

“Oh fine,” the matron didn’t think much of it, smiling warmly: “Well then, sir, be on your way. You’re always welcome here.”

At this moment, catching sight of the matron’s mature charm in all her actions, Du Gang shuddered and hurriedly fled the premises.

Motherf***er, I need to earn money!

At that moment, the only thing Du Gang wanted to do was earn money, lots of it, then return and act the part of a lord…

All of a sudden, as he left the entrance, he glanced at the starting prices hung on the wall…

First Floor: 100.

Second Floor: 1000.

Third Floor: 10000.

The unit that followed was… Divine Crystals!

No joke, the starting price was so high…

Du Gang’s mouth twitched a little.

God damn it, I certainly can’t afford any of this in the near future!

Then, without looking back, he bolted.”

Ask for directions?

Hell no, just go!

PS: I ate an expired bread, had diarrhea, was in pain all day, kept writing despite feeling ill, didn’t slack off. Only wrote about twenty thousand today.

Not having a good few days, but it’s okay. I finally got my plot and setting sorted out. From tomorrow everything should go smoothly. Tomorrow I’ll push harder, aim for thirty thousand, forty thousand.

Let’s go!