I Am Overlord c1-962
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The Crane Whistles Through the Nine Skies!
The lifelike crane soared to the sky, its cry reverberating far and wide as it charged toward Xia Qiuhua. The attack caused Xia Qiuhua to raise his brow. His hand flickered as he swung his sword, sending a swirling sword energy slashing toward the crane.
The attack contained a sensation of reducing complexity to simplicity, a concept that wasn't sword intent but was instead a concept surpassing sword intent. It was a concept of returning to one's true self.
One could say that Xia Qiuhua's attack not only displayed his understanding of the sword but also enhanced his battle technique. In theory, it was similar to the simplification of battle techniques Xiang Shaoyun had learned from the gravekeeper elder.
If Xia Qiuhua had learned that by himself without the guidance of a teacher, it would mean that he was someone with terrifying martial comprehension. The sword energy ripped through the air, separating the crane from its head.
Just when Xia Qiuhua was about to press on, Zhuge Zhantian retreated and shouted, "I surrender!"
Xia Qiuhua pointed at his opponent helplessly and said, "Y-you're too shameless!"
"What was I supposed to do? I am here to be defeated anyway. I'm only here to tell everyone that the Overlord Legion is not afraid of setbacks. We have the courage to face any opponent!" said Zhuge Zhantian, feeling no shame toward his defeat. Instead, he wore his loss like a badge of honor as he made a righteous declaration to the crowd around the ring.
It seemed to work, and some of the crowd raised their thumbs and praised, "Well said!"
Who never tasted failure before? Even the geniuses gathered around the ring had all suffered defeat before. To maintain courage in the face of defeat was a valuable mentality a martial cultivator should have. The words of Zhuge Zhantian seemed to have reintroduced the Overlord Legion to the people, even causing some of them to consider joining the legion.
From all that had transpired, one ought to admit that Zhuge Zhantian had a truly brilliant brain. Zhuge Zhantian then left the ring in a carefree manner. On the other hand, Xia Qiuhua was completely disgusted by the shamelessness and was prepared to leave as well.
"Hold on, your next opponent is me, Tang Longfei!" a loud voice rang out.
A golden figure flashed through the crowd before landing on the ring. The newcomer was high-spirited, and his battle intent was flaring. He was none other than Tang Longfei, who had just come out of the Vicious Steel Mist. He had reached third-stage Dragon Ascension Realm, and one could say that with his current cultivation level, he was qualified to enter the Dragon Phoenix List as well.
When Xia Qiuhua sensed Tang Longfei's strength, excitement flickered in his eyes as he said, "Finally, a decent opponent has appeared. I accept your challenge."
"Haha, let's battle then!" Tang Longfei howled with laughter as he slammed a golden palm toward Xia Qiuhua.
The palm swept forth like a dragon, shining with a brilliant golden radiance. As for Xia Qiuhua, his sword slashes sliced through the air like a majestic rainbow. Thus, the two geniuses engaged in a spectacular battle, one that caused the blood of all spectators to boil with excitement.
"Since when has that Tang Longfei become so powerful? He seems to have reached third-stage Dragon Ascension Realm!"
"He has obviously stumbled upon a fortuitous encounter. How would he have grown so fast otherwise? What a lucky fellow."
"Looks like the Overlord Legion is not completely useless after all. With someone strong enough to enter the Dragon Phoenix List like Tang Longfei, the legion's strength can be elevated to a brand new level. But I wonder if their overlord, Xiang Shaoyun, can actually control his subordinates."
"Well, we will know when he finally reveals himself. For now, let's enjoy this match."
Chapter 656: Exquisite Young Woman
Ultimately, the fight between Tang Longfei and Xia Qiuhua ended in a draw. Neither had been able to fully defeat the other, and instead, they had both collapsed due to heavy injuries. For some reason, a connection seemed to have formed between the two during the fight. They thus announced unanimously that they would resume their fight at a different time.
The two were then brought away by their respective people. Through the battle, their names started spreading through the academy. In the academy, each and every disciple was constantly changing. Anyone who slacked could be overtaken by the others at any time.
None of these geniuses enjoyed being beneath others. Thus, it was natural that they would constantly cultivate hard in pursuit of strength. Furthermore, the rise of Tang Longfei and Xia Qiuhua, who both initially had bad rankings, had inspired many others with bad rankings.
With the duels of Zhuge Zhantian and Tang Longfei, the Overlord Legion had repaired their reputation somewhat, allowing them to stabilize the nerves of the other members. And with the return of Shang Jifeng and Lady Shura, finally, the Overlord Legion members calmed.
They only needed to await the return of their overlord, who would gain more glory for their Overlord Legion. At this time, Xiang Shaoyun quietly arrived at Dragon Phoenix City.
He initially planned to rush back to the academy immediately, but after some hesitation, he decided to recuperate for two days at the Dragon Phoenix City before returning. He visited the Dragon Phoenix Restaurant again and ordered a set of their medicinal cuisine.
The medicinal cuisine wasn't exactly cheap. It was priced at 5,000 contribution points. Xiang Shaoyun finally understood why they were ignored when they requested more sets of medicinal cuisine back when they had first arrived.
As a disciple of the academy, contribution points were required if he wished to order the medicinal cuisine. Halfway through his meal, he noticed someone beside him.
"Young master, isn't it boring eating all by yourself? Why don't you let me accompany you?” A coquettish voice traveled into his ears.
When Xiang Shaoyun looked over, an enchanting young woman entered his view. She was gazing at him with a pair of eyes glistening with tenderness. The young woman was dressed seductively, showcasing her fair and tender skin and her bountiful bosom that caused one's blood to boil. Her waist was also slim, while her rear was perky. Everything about her seemed perfect.
It would seem Xiang Shaoyun had encountered an exquisite young woman. He was also a hot-blooded young man, and when he faced such a woman, he felt his blood boil.
Looking at her tender half-revealed bosom, he swallowed and said, "Th-that w-won't be proper, right?"
His action was a contradiction of his words, however, as he moved aside and made space for the woman to sit down. The men in their surroundings all focused on the woman, some seemingly on the verge of getting a nosebleed. This was a mature woman that not many men could reject. She sat down beside Xiang Shaoyun, and immediately, a pleasant smell entered his nose, almost causing him to lose himself to lust then and there.
"Young master, what is your name? You are so handsome, causing my heart to beat when I lay eyes on you," asked the woman tenderly. Her pair of eyes seemed to radiate endless charm capable of ending kingdoms.
Blankly, Xiang Shaoyun answered, "I am Xiang Shaoyun, a Dragon Phoenix Academy disciple. What is your name, if I may ask?"
"Ohhh, amazing! Young Master Xiang is a disciple of the Dragon Phoenix Academy? I heard that only the best of geniuses could enter the academy," exclaimed the woman with a look of infatuation.
She then wrapped her hands around Xiang Shaoyun's arm, rubbing her ample bosom against his arm. The splendid sensation further poked at Xiang Shaoyun's mind, dragging him into a spiral of lust.
"Haha, no, that's nothing special at all," said Xiang Shaoyun with a hearty laugh.
"Young Master Xiang is such a humble person," said the woman. She then raised his glass and said, "A toast to you from your servant, Jiaojiao."
She then downed the liquor in the glass.
"Miss, you look to be a great drinker! Fine, today, we shall drink to our hearts' content!" said Xiang Shaoyun.
"Young Master Xiang, are you trying to get me drunk?" asked the woman.
"What do you think?" A perverted look flashed in Xiang Shaoyun's eyes.
"Fine, I will agree since I find you very pleasing to my eyes for some reason. Today, we shall drink to our hearts' content!" said the woman bashfully.
At this point, the people around them couldn't watch on anymore. They wanted nothing more than to replace Xiang Shaoyun. Inwardly, they all cursed, What's so special about that pretty boy? His looks are all he has!
They were filled with envy. Xiang Shaoyun and the woman weren't able to drink much before someone finally took action.
"Beauty, what's the point of drinking with a pretty boy like him? Come, drink with me!" said a sturdy male with a massive beard on his face.
The man had a rugged look, and several malevolent scars could be seen on his arms. He was obviously someone who risked his life on a regular basis. He sat down opposite the woman, staring straight at her plump bosom while swallowing repeatedly.
"You're so ugly. I don't like you," said the woman as she meekly hid behind Xiang Shaoyun.
"Hmph. You should never judge a book by its cover. In bed, this pretty boy is definitely trash. How can he compare with me?" said the man with a snort. He then glared at Xiang Shaoyun. "Kid, scram! Do you want me to throw you out personally?"
"Hehe, what do I have to fear? This is the Dragon Phoenix Restaurant," said Xiang Shaoyun.
"Oh? Are you planning to stay here your whole life?" the man asked disdainfully before standing up and walking out of the restaurant.
He stood at the entrance, waiting. He even had the time to provoke and give Xiang Shaoyun his middle finger.
"Young Master Xiang, what should we do?" asked the woman, looking pitiful. "Th-that person looks so scary."
"Don't worry. Since he wants to wait, we'll let him wait. I'm in no rush anyway," said Xiang Shaoyun in a carefree manner. His shameless words gave the impression that he was really afraid of the man.
At this, the others in the restaurant were filled with disdain. A pretty boy is indeed only good for his looks and nothing else.
"Hehe, great! I'll drink with you! At most, both of us will stay here together," said the woman with a sweet smile.
"Yes, yes, staying at the restaurant would be great," a voice Xiang Shaoyun was rather familiar with suddenly sounded outside the restaurant.
Chapter 657: Reunion with the Villains
Xiang Shaoyun shivered when he heard the new voice, and he immediately focused his gaze at the restaurant's entrance. A short, thin, ugly man appeared there. He was none other than Ugly Gambler of the Seven Villains.
"Where did this ugly man come from? The sight of him disgusts me," scolded the man waiting outside for Xiang Shaoyun.
"You talking about me?" Ugly Gambler looked over and asked.
The man fearlessly pointed at Ugly Gambler and scolded, "Who else if not you? It's not your fault for being born ugly, but your fault lies in the fact that you are actually roaming around, scaring others with your ugly face!"
The man had quite a sharp tongue, but he did not seem to understand that a loose tongue might cause a lot of trouble. Xiang Shaoyun looked at that man with pity as he thought, Truly courageous.
"Impressive. You actually have the guts to call me ugly right to my face," said Ugly Gambler, his eyes gleaming.
"Get out of my face right this moment, or I will slaughter you right where you sand," said the man as he brandished his scarred arms.
The words had barely left his mouth when Ugly Gambler's fingers appeared around his neck. The man didn't even see Ugly Gambler move, and a chill crept up his spine at that realization.
"Are you aware of how much your mouth stinks?" asked Ugly Gambler, murderous intent flashing in his eyes.
The man pleaded with great difficulty, "D-don't kill—"
Crack!
A crisp sound rang out before he could finish his words. And just like that, he was killed. The people in the restaurant saw the happenings, and their pupils shrank. They had not expected the ugly newcomer to be so ruthless, and his revealed strength seemed immeasurably deep.
One ought to know that the man killed was a fourth-stage Dragon Ascension Realm cultivator. Someone like that had been killed like he was a puppy.
Meanwhile, Ugly Gambler behaved as if he had done something completely insignificant, and he casually strode into the restaurant. Since he had technically committed murder outside the restaurant, the people of the restaurant couldn't find an excuse to do anything to him either.
Ugly Gambler walked straight to Xiang Shaoyun and the beauty. Everyone in the restaurant wondered if the beauty had caught his attention. If that was the case, that pretty boy was probably in trouble.
"Lord Gambler, you're here? Please, take a seat!" Xiang Shaoyun stood up and greeted him.
Back then, he had promised Ugly Gambler to locate the divine site within three years. The period was not up, and thus, Ugly Gambler's appearance was completely unexpected. A smile that was uglier than a crying face formed on Ugly Gambler's face as Ugly Gambler replied, "I thought you would have forgotten about me already."
"How can that be? Lord Gambler is my benefactor!" fawned Xiang Shaoyun.
"Haha, it's good that you know that. Today, I shall drink with you. After that, I will try my hand at the local gambling dens. I will definitely make some great profits here!" said Ugly Gambler as he sat down, the same smile still on his face. He then looked at the beauty and said, "Jiaojiao, look at how pretty you are today! Are you trying to gobble up my young brother here?"
The beauty was none other than Yao Jiaojiao, the Myriad Face Consort of the Seven Villains. She would change her appearance almost every time she appeared. Even Xiang Shaoyun, who had met her before, couldn't immediately recognize her. She wasn't known as the Myriad Face Consort for no reason.
"Hehe, a handsome young man like this truly causes my heart to flutter. But you, Ugly Gambler, have ruined the fun," said Yao Jiaojiao as she giggled, her hand over her mouth.
Only someone like Yao Jiaojiao would have the guts to address the Ugly Gambler by his full title.
"Hear that, Xiang Shaoyun? This woman is a ruthless vixen even scarier than the Man-eating Mouth. You need to watch out," said Ugly Gambler.
"Lords, please stop teasing this kid. Come, let us drink! Waiter, serve the liquor!" Xiang Shaoyun said, his voice filled with passion.
"How can a drinking session begin without me?" another voice rang out.
A bald monk strode through the door. The monk had a wide smile on his face, looking incredibly genial. His appearance was a lie, however. He was Yuan Xiao of the Seven Villains, also known as Smiling Monk. Three of the Seven Villains had shown themselves.
Some of the people in the restaurant had been at the Bloodsin City before, and thus, they finally recognized the three. The Seven Villains had an infamous reputation, and with their strength, they were existences that struck fear in one's heart.
Xiang Shaoyun grumbled inwardly, Do these fellows have the nose of a dog? The moment the divine site's clues appeared, they're all here.
"Monk, I heard your beloved disciple had joined the Dragon Phoenix Academy as well. Why are you here instead of looking for your disciple?" questioned Ugly Gambler unhappily.
"Hehe, my disciple is not as obedient as your young brother. Even as his master, I failed to summon him out of the academy," said Smiling Monk with a bitter smile as he took a seat beside Ugly Gambler.
At this time, the waiter served them more food and liquor, and Xiang Shaoyun quickly assumed the job of an attendant as he poured each of them a glass of liquor. He did not have the courage to act up in front of these three. It was much better for him to cower before them.
He toasted them repeatedly, and the three villains downed every glass of liquor offered. As they drank, they talked and laughed, painting a harmonious picture. The three did not look like they were part of the Seven Villains at all.
> Finally, when they were done drinking, Ugly Gambler grabbed Xiang Shaoyun's hand and said, "Enough drinking. Time to go."
He then dragged Xiang Shaoyun off without offering other explanations. However, Yao Jiaojiao grabbed Xiang Shaoyun's other hand and smiled. "Ugly Gambler, what are you doing? He is now my little boyfriend. You have to be gentle with him!"
Ugly Gambler's hand was exuding a power Xiang Shaoyun couldn't resist, but Yao Jiaojiao was doing the same as well, pushing Ugly Gambler's power off him. He was hit by a realization that he could no longer control his own body.
Inwardly, he smiled bitterly, Please don't tear my weak body apart.
"Fine, you can have him. We need to go. This is not the place to talk," said Ugly Gambler, unwilling to force the matter. He stood up and walked out of the restaurant.
"Haha, let's go. Everyone is staring at us," said Smiling Monk as he rubbed his bald head before standing up and walking off as well.
As for Yao Jiaojiao, she pulled at Xiang Shaoyun's hand and said coquettishly, "Come on, my beloved Young Master Xiang."
"Lord, you can't tease me like this!" said Xiang Shaoyun helplessly.
"Oh, why are you being all distant now? I have truly taken a liking for you. Don't even dream of escaping me," Yao Jiaojiao protested with the same coquettish tone.
Her plump bosom pressed against Xiang Shaoyun's arm, assaulting him with a comfortable sense of tenderness. If it wasn't for the fact that this woman was one of the Seven Villains, he would have probably pounced on her that instant.
Chapter 658: The Three Villains Conspire
Xiang Shaoyun was brought to an inconspicuous private house in the city. The three villains each took a seat, and while Xiang Shaoyun initially didn't dare to sit, he was forced into a seat by Yao Jiaojiao.
"Are there any results with what I had tasked you to investigate?" Ugly Gambler went straight to the point.
Yao Jiaojiao and Smiling Monk both focused on Xiang Shaoyun as well, expectant looks on their faces. Xiang Shaoyun gave it a short thought before answering, "Yes, but I'm not too sure yet. The map you gave me is not complete!"