Torsten Hewson
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v5c55: Wash Away Your Worries
🕑 Added 2024-10-07 02:31:21 +0000 UTC“Oh, now that's interesting.” Ri Zu’s Master said, her eyes gleaming while she pored over the medical text Ri Zu had gotten from the Medical Pavilion at the Shrouded Mountain Sect.
“Right?” Ri Zu asked from her place, leaning on her Master’s shoulder. Her smell was muted, while she was human, but the smell of home was just…comforting.
Heavens, she had missed talking with her Master.
Yushang was speaking with Tigu—the two had hit it off swiftly, while Yin was helping Pi Pa put away the last of the dishes. Xiulan and Xianghua were talking with the bee of all people. It had been a bit of a shock to hear that Vajra was awake, and had helped with the defense.
“That's us done, love.” Ri Zu and her Master both perked up at the soft, contented voice of Master Jin that carried through the living room. All of them had their shirts off. Thick slabs of muscle contrasted with slimmer forms, forming a very nice view.
The men had all gone to bathe first tonight. Everyone turned as the men entered the room, and Ri Zu felt her cheeks flush when she laid eyes on Bi De.
He was as perfect as always. His hair was unbound and free, a scarlet banner. His green eyes were at peace, and he looked like he had had a good time. Ri Zu traced the curves of his well-sculpted muscles, until her eyes landed on the starburst of burned and scarring skin on his chest.
He caught her eye and smiled warmly.
Yushang made a noise of appreciation in the back of her throat, prompting a chuckle from Xiulan, while Xianghua just nodded.
“Indeed, my Gou Ren is a magnificent sight!” Xianghua boasted.
Ri Zu could not disagree. Gou Ren had grown taller, and packed on more muscle. His shoulders were broad, and his body tapered into a triangle towards his waist. Many cultivators Ri Zu knew at the Shrouded Mountain Sect crafted for themselves such a physique, but Gou Ren had extra muscles in places from his time tilling fields and building walls. They filled out his form just that extra amount, and made him look a bit more proportional, in Ri Zu’s own clinical opinion. And though he indeed looked quite a bit like a monkey, nobody could dare say he was not a handsome man. He looked like a true warrior—especially with the half-healed cuts on his chest and shoulders.
His brother walked beside him, and both men were conversing. Yun Ren had his ears out and his hair down, the strands obviously having been brushed, judging by the comb Gou Ren was still carrying. Yun Ren was still smaller and slimmer than his brother, yet he walked with predatory grace. His shoulders were less tense, and he looked like the warm water had provided its relief.
Shen Yu came next. The old man still had ugly, puckered wounds over his body, yet they couldn’t diminish his form. His physique was perfect. Forged and sculpted into a weapon of his own design. His back was straight and firm, and the old man looked very content, moving languidly.
Spooks came in just behind them. Ri Zu had seen that the bathhouse was bigger, but she was still a bit surprised the Thunderhoof had fit. His fur was clean and lustrous, and he looked about to fall asleep. He only managed to stay standing thanks to the support of Chun Ke, bandages still around the boar’s chest.
Shao Heng and Han looked to be half asleep. The older man’s weatherbeaten and scarred body was in contrast to Han’s more corpulent form—and Ri Zu was glad both of them were enough at ease to look like that.
Huo Ten rode upon Bei Be’s back, along with Miantiao, the Torrent Rider, and Shaggy Two. Delun walked next to the ox. Ri Zu could certainly see where Tigu was coming from, calling Delun ‘Handsome Man’. Like the others, he too had half-healed wounds, proof of the fact that he had defended their home.
Even Yingwen and Fenxian looked to be at least somewhat content.
Finally, bringing up the rear were Bowu, Wa Shi and Master Jin. Unlike the others, Bowu was undamaged—but he looked no less tired. Master Jin, out of everyone save Shen Yu, looked the worst off. The electrical burns, and damage to his arms were the most blatant injuries…but his stride was solid.
As it should be, Ri Zu found herself thinking, before she shook off the thought. He always looked so indomitable, like a mountain… but as she looked closer, she could see the slight hesitation the pain brought to his movements. He was carrying Wa Shi in his jar, the fish still asleep.
“Oh, being human must have really changed things if you’re eyeing everybody up like that,” Ri Zu’s Master teased, her voice amused. Ri Zu squeaked, and turned to Meiling expecting more teasing, but instead the other woman’s eyes were wistful as she took in their scarred bodies. “Those are our boys—they fought hard and gave it their all. They did well, didn’t they?”
“We all did, I think,” Bi De said, as he approached. He still had a small smile on his face. “While I do prefer my natural form, being able to properly wash another’s back is perhaps the one thing that this body is superior at. It was most enjoyable. And the new bath—well, I suppose you have to see it for yourself.”
“Yes, you do,” Ri Zu’s Master declared. “Come on, girls, our turn.”
They got ready swiftly, leaving the men to rest, and in no time, they were at the bathhouse.
The very much bigger than Ri Zu remembered bathhouse. The old one had been nice, if a bit cramped, when all of them had used it. It had been a simple thing, rustic, with a low ceiling and smelling of cedar. There had been some bathing supplies, and occasionally birch branches on the wall that one could use to improve circulation.
This bathhouse had a place where they could change that was as big as the previous bathing area—and when they walked through the door, Ri Zu could only stare.
“You said your home was amazing…but this is something else,” Yushang murmured.
This bathhouse kept the spirit of the original—a communal place to bathe and relaxt— but it was now more like walking into the glass house than walking into the bath.
The room was shrouded in steam, and plants and vines grew from the walls and the rafters from special planters. They filed the air with the scents of life and growth, undercut by the faint whiff of cedar, sandalwood, and medicinal herbs.
A great, bowl-shaped tub dominated the room, filled to the brim with water. A grate in the floor was obviously for drainage, and there was a plug in the side of the tub. Lilypads breached the water around the edges, and lotus flowers dropped their petals into the pool. Lightstones shone from the ceiling like a constellation.
“Indeed! Our Fa Ram is full of wonders, pretty sister!” Tigu called, a grin on her face. She slung an arm around Yushang and Ri Zu, pulling them both into her sides. Ri Zu leaned into her Sister’s touch...while taking in the fading cuts and scars all over her. Several of the strikes had completely penetrated Tigu’s body. Ri Zu swiftly pushed the boiling rage away that somebody had hurt Tigu like that, and instead took a breath. It was over. Instead, she looked up at the tanned woman; Tigu was quite a bit taller now than when Ri Zu had left. “Your physique is quite nice! Better than this one here, at any rate!”
Yushang flushed at the praise. Indeed, Yushang’s body was very nice—Ri Zu cut off the thought, and instead poked Tigu in the side. Both of them allowed themselves to be pulled into the bathhouse.
“You all worked hard,” Ri Zu said, but Tigu shook her head.
“This is all the work of the ones that stayed. I did nothing but enjoy the fruits of their labours! Mistress especially—her Qi means this place doesn’t start to rot or moulder. Now come on, let's wash each others back—”
Tigu was interrupted when Ri Zu’s Master gently laid her hand on Ri Zu’s shoulder.
“I’ve waited long enough. It's time for a checkup instead.”
Tigu instantly abandoned her, grabbing Yushang and Yin and pulling them along.. Meiling’s other hand began to make grasping motions.
….this is probably what it felt like when Ri Zu did that to other people.
But as her Master’s fingers got to work, tension Ri Zu didn’t even know she had was attacked, and Ri Zu was reduced to a puddle underneath her Master’s ministrations… while she began asking questions.
“Tigu was right. Why did you make these so big? Are you trying to start a fight? Or did you think that because he was a bird that Bi De liked big breasts?”
“Everything Ri Zu did was to annoy Tigu,” Ri Zu replied, “Especially the freckles.”
“I knew it! I knew it, damn it!!” Tigu erupted.
Xiulan caught the woman out of the air. Xianghua and Yin roared with laughter, and even Pi Pa cracked a smile. Vajra buzzed, from where she was sipping dew from one of the lotuses.
Bi De was right, though. Bathing as a human was very nice. There was just something about how nice and soft everyone was… especially when her Master got tired of teasing Ri Zu, and both of them moved on.
Tigu’s abs had a very interesting texture, especially once she started squirming.
==============================
Eventually, their own bath was finished, and they returned to the main house—where Ri Zu was surprised. Instead of everyone going back to their own rooms, the mattresses, blankets, and pillows had been piled in the living room.
Bi De was already there, cradling Xiao De—Zhuye, their little brother. He smiled up at her when she entered.
Shen Yu was holding a transmission stone, and Ri Zu caught part of his conversation. “You’ve recorded everything already? You have done well. I shall send resupply to you tomorrow. Continue upon your course, Disciple of the Cloudy Sword. You walk in the footsteps of the Honoured Founders. This is clear to me.”
Shen Yu chuckled at whatever he heard on the other end, and pulled away from the transmission stone. “Ha! I finally flustered him!” the old man declared. “That boy needs to get used to praise.”
Everyone settled in somewhere. Ri Zu found herself in Bi De’s lap. Yushang bunked down with Han and Shao Heng. Shen Yu took Zhuye. Master Jin had Ri Zu’s Master leaning against him, while he channeled Qi into Nezan’s dimly glowing core, along with Yun Ren.
Xiulan was nearby, all wrapped up in a blanket. Gou Ren, Xianghua, and Bowu formed another cluster, while Tigu was with Delun, the Torrent Rider, and Shaggy Two. Huo Ten was with Miantiao and Yin, while Spooks had been gifted Chun Ke’s ‘beanbag’, the only piece of furniture big enough to support him. The Thunderhoof was out cold, Chun Ke nearby with Pi Pa leaning against him.
Yingwen and Fenxian were off to the side a bit, still.
Finally, Vajra winged down to land on Bi De’s shoulder. Ri Zu smiled and waved at her, while Bi De placed a kiss on the top of the bee’s fuzzy abdomen.
Vajra froze.
“Thank you for all you’ve done,” he said with a smile.
The bee started dancing rapidly. Ri Zu had no idea what she was saying, but she looked quite bashful.
The lights were snuffed, leaving only the shining glass balls, their colours dancing off every surface, and the dim glow of the fire.
There, they traded stories of what happened. Their voices were quiet, as they relived the desperate hours, and the terror of battle.
The wounds were still raw and fresh.
But in the warm house, with the snow falling outside, and everyone together…it was not quite so terrible.
The darkness fell completely. The fire burned low, and then out.
The snow fell outside, and a great General stood guard.
Ri Zu had no nightmares, safe in Bi De’s arms.
==============================
The next day around noon, thousands of Li away, Xiao Ge of the Cloudy Sword Sect frowned as the wards alerted him to something speeding into the sect.
It was specific to one man, keyed to the warding formations. For high priority messages only.
The last time one of these had been used, it had been about Shen Bu.
Ge was on his feet in an instant, his heart thundering in his chest. His Qi reached out and touched the artifact. The blade shot through the air, directly into his waiting palm. It twisted, transforming into a scroll.
Xiao Ge read its contents. His thundering heart stilled.
Imperial Realm Demonic Cultivator. An attack on an Honoured Ally. Shen Yu asking for help.
“Disciples of the Cloudy Sword Sect. Assemble,” Xiao Ge rumbled.
Yukong, Shou, Ran, and Chen were in Ge’s office immediately, their Qi tense, and their eyes burning.
The Senior and Core Disciples followed moments later, all of them on one knee, prepared for battle and armed for war.
“There has been an attack on our Honoured Allies, and our Sworn Brother. An Imperial Realm Demonic Cultivator was encountered. I request permission from the other Elders to take the Mantle of War.”
The Cloudy Sword Sect had no true and official leader. Instead, they governed themselves as a council of all currently active Elders.
His comrades read Shen Yu’s message. Yukong’s normally controlled face became thunderous.
Her Qi flared in, supporting his motion. Shou’s followed immediately after, as always voting in line with his wife. Chen and Ran completed the measure, unanimous.
“We have been called—and our best shall answer,” Yukong stated simply.
The mountain shuddered. Xiao Ge felt the approval of the Spirits the Founders had tied to the Mountain.
“Rouse the Outer Sect. Put on standby The Army Forged in the Crucible. If an escalation is necessary, we shall effect full mobilization.”
His command was obeyed without hesitation.
“Disciple Su Ge. Select your most able peers. You are in charge of the Core Disciples Cloud.”
“Yes, Elder Ge,” his Granddaughter intoned.
“You have ten minutes. The Cloudy Sword Sect shall not be found wanting. Go.”
========================================
A woman, sitting upon a floating island, frowned at the sword she had snatched out of the air. She was stunningly beautiful, and her Qi swirled around her, her power in the Imperial Realm.
Tianzhe Minyan, the Divine Falcon of the East, Second Lady of the Soaring Heaven’s Isle Sect, frowned at the message from her on-again off-again lover, Shen Yu.
“...you only speak first if you want something, don’t you, you bastard,” Minyan muttered, but her heart was not in her harsh words. She looked down at the sword again, one line standing out to her in particular.
I need your help, Minyan.
She clicked her tongue.
“Bailu. Seiyu.”
“Yes, Master?” her disciples asked. The Storm Wings of Soaring Heaven’s Isle descended to one knee, their heads bowed. Minyan studied them. Neither were the brightest girls… but they were loyal and strong.
Tianzhe Minyan looked down from her floating island onto the sea below.
“Assemble a crew for the Windward Blade. There is a matter we have to attend to.”
=========================================
In the Imperial Palace, The Son of Heaven looked at a sword carrying a message—and then called his most loyal man. The only man who could claim to not truly be a man, but something else—a voice of the Son of Heaven.
The Imperial Herald received his orders.
To the Azure Hills.
==============================
================================
BATHHOUSE EPISODE.
Oh, and that other part.
I am now going on break to sleep the rest of this cold off. See you on the 14th of october!
Edited By: Plasma Regulators, BargleNawdleZouss
Comments
Idan tal
It took 7 months, but now it happens
Mark Greenberg
While he may be interested in the history of the province, I doubt it'll make much of an impact on him. It's just the ancient history of one small province (the "weakest" province) in a mighty empire. Just like learning the true history of the druids who built Stonehenge would have little impact on modern Britain's government.
Mark Greenberg
I think he explained the situation fine. The CSS is coming to track down and destroy the remnants of an Imperial Realm demonic cultivator’s organization, one that includes at least Earth realm practitioners. While they may want to increase the protection of their Honored Allies, they aren't going to be expecting to interrupt an assault in progress. Also, while the mead is good it's not the best or most qi-laden drink Shen Yu has had. I'm sure Bailu will enjoy it but I doubt it'll be the be-all-end-all for her either.
K1NG_CHIMP
BRO I JUST HAD THE REALIZATION! Bailu and Wa Shi, the two dragons and gluttony are going to meet now! I'm so excited to see how they interact once everyone drops into Fa Ram
Michael Wheaton
One thing that bothers me is that Meiling has access to all of the Medical techniques from the emperors crystal and doesn’t seem as if she has been studying them
magobaltasar
Bit of a late comment here, but with that last scene I can't help but remember Yulong trying to convince himself that they weren't done yet. *The Cloudy Sword Sect (and friends) has entered the chat*
georppy
Avengers Assemble!
Mark Greenberg
The problem with the Azure Blimp is similar to the one faced by the Azure Railroad: Spirit beasts. Xianxia world is DANGEROUS.
CringeWorthyStudios
Nah, next chapter.
CringeWorthyStudios
8 or so. Just after the feast at the end of the tournament.
CringeWorthyStudios
The root was actually identified by author-sama over on discord. Just search “the root is” in the World-of-BOC channel and you’ll find it.
CringeWorthyStudios
The baka twins can still have their AU harem captain, it’s fine! Mei Mei just has to expand her harem first. Xiulan is obviously next, but after Meiling gets her then the baka twins are obviously on the menu. And yes, it’s obviously Mei mei’s harem and not Jin’s, heh.
CringeWorthyStudios
Now that you say that I really want to see SHI set up a branch sect near Jin or something and then we can see some of the AU character around some more. Flasher-chan, the baka twins, Xiaobao and Xiulan’s mum hopefully.
CringeWorthyStudios
Oh gods oh fuck they’re never ever going to get rid of Bailu when she finds Jin’s drinks. I swear Baka-sama is going swear eternal allegiance or something for access to Vajra’s magic mead.
Ormus Von Orbulon
It absolutely IS a lot of speculation! Isn't it lovely! I think the Twilight Cuckoo's Triumph (Jinsheng) was in the Azure Hills, musing on his first ancient defeat there, and considering moving his slowly but steadily recovering Blood Arts faction there to finish the job once they'd taken over the SMS and userped the teleportation array... Then he happened upon a happy accident: Meling's mother's elder brother! Immediately, he moved to brainwash/recruit him. It's possible/probable Meiling is directly decended from the Azure Emperor, but I don't think that's the end of it... Anyway. All that's less important. The hints we get of the Bloodline being beyond the Azure Hills are thus: One -- the chapters from Meling's and her Father's POV where, as her mother lay dying from disease, she passes on her power, and urges her to keep it a secret. She might have been able to burn it out, but chose to die, passing her heritage on quietly. Two-- Shen Yu knowing of the constellation soul art Bloodline and it's chief tactical trait: Chi sense. Not the Starfire of Emperors -- Chi sense. Something he's had to deal with before. Meiling is nervous and uncomfortable. Three-- Shen Yu's fight with Jinsheng had a curious digression with what I suspect is the body and soul that the old bloodmonster is using as a suit. They fought for ages, far and wide, long ago. But how long ago, exactly? The body he was using when he was blasted from the Hills by Xioshi was obliterated. That's an old corpse, from elsewhere, and later. Please note; the Azure Hills are already teeming with people who wanted to "get away" It's hardly a tremendous leap of logic to make the connections neccesary to see the last demoralized, hunted survivors of a fallen noble house finding refuge amongst the teeming masses of purely mortal commoners of the Capital of the Azure Hills's slums. Just like Jin. And the Oracle. And even Vajra, at a stretch. If I'm right, I will be victorious! And if I'm wrong, it will be something else grand and unexpected!
Fluffy druid
Thats a lot of speculation. The freckles bloodline descends from the Emperor of the Azure Mountains, that Xaoshi replaced. I think, that is how a certain demonic cousin got the idea, he deserves to be Emperor, party because of his particular variety, partly because of his mothers stunted divination gift. But during my recent reread I found no hint, the bloodline was targeted. I think Yulong actively sought out power and found a/his master.
Ormus Von Orbulon
Well, sure -- it was CALLED the 'blood arts purge'. And they did their best to purge them. But, this particular demonic group were unusually canny, and posed a unique threat. Reading between the lines we see it: 1 -- because of the worms, two, because their demonic cultivators were unusually disciplined and restrained... And three -- they always knew you were coming. Always, the evacuation had already started by the time the strike team descended. They knew it's makeup, where they were, and no shielding could hide from them. An insurmountable tactical asset. The Constellation Soul Arts Bloodline was being directly targeted by these demons as vessels, or worm hosts to control. From there, it's easy to see that the true focus of the purge was a race to convert and/or kill every last one of the Bloodline, no matter how regrettable. Even the helpless and the children could be, and no doubt were, used by the demons. They were just far too dangerous.
Oni
As I recall... it's the Blood Arts that were purged. The celestial bloodline Meiling has wasn't specifically purged, just thought to have died out.
Ormus Von Orbulon
I can hardly wait for the Sworn Brothers to show up. I can think of SO MANY plot extrapolations. Especially if Mr Botanist and Ms Artificer tag along! I imagine the Soaring Heavens Isles girls are going to be important for Jin's little trade expedition, and there's going to be side drama over Lu Ri recommending our lovely, Foxy infiltration specialist to work with him, the Plum Blossom Shadow -- AND Lu Ri's nominal betrothed. What I'm really concerned about is the message to the Emperor. I figure it could be one or both of two things, and one of those things is a decidedly dark thought regarding lingering survivors of a certain purge. A purge brought on by necessity, and by imperial decree -- due to a certain group using those worms. Oh, Meling's family now, and Shen Yu is all about that.... But. He took Oaths. There are Rules. The concept of Shen Yu and the Emperor eventually having a dispute over Oaths has already been floated... And now? The worm. The Dark Star--wielding Demon Lord. Indisputable proof, beyond reasonable doubt of a resurgence. The Emperor must be informed. About Everything. Poor Meling is going to have a hard time soon, and we'll no doubt get a dark history lesson... After all, there has to be SOME reason "facial blemishes" are culturally unbecoming and to be avoided.
leopard eye
We can onely hope one of the things will be, "I'm getting married!"
Llainway
Wow! Don’t remember that, remember which chapter she’s in?
Story Time Compass
A birth right by the stars, a legacy of the deer yearing for the sky..... good god, ARE WE GOING TO SEE A SPACESHIP?!
Aesoir
It probably won’t be Jin, however his son may take on that mantle. The yearning for freedom and exploration is kind of fundamental to build the skyship, neither of which are canon Jin traits. His children may though.
Evander
AU Jin doesn't have the benefit of Shennong's lectures or a land spirit.
Harish
Sucker bet
Truedragon5374
Ooh! Jin could send Zeng as a bodyguard for the Azure Jade expedition. The whole "temper your cultivation by seeing the world" thing.
Truedragon5374
Considering what AU Jin had to do to get the lost plans, I doubt it. However, I see it as very likely that when he sees the airship, that he will mention the concept of hot air balloons to Bowu. A year or two later, the first Azure Blimp will take flight.
Truedragon5374
We all know it's inevitable that Jin will eventually be growing Jade grade rice, the best there is. What do you want to bet that, due to The Voice visiting Fa Ram, that rice is going to grace the Emperor's table?
Randall Brynsvold
I assume that the CSS preparation for travel includes supplies, including food and tents or buildings, ready to pop out from storage rings. SHI's ship should have all the basics for them as well.
Randall Brynsvold
Gou Ren's physique and Jin's physique are still quite different. "Muscular cultivator" and "Jin" are different categories.
Randall Brynsvold
Xiulan will be giving the report to the Azure Hills sects, as detailed or as vague as she and Jin decide it should be.
Randall Brynsvold
In the SHI AU, Liusei has a Xiulan-esque figure, mentions that she has a daughter she calls Little Orchid who is probably not getting her letters, says that Jin reminds her of her husband ("They both have beautiful eyes"), and in the main story Xiulan's father compares Xiulan's peace of mind to her mother Liusei's (in his thoughts). Plus, there's a note from the author explaining the Yellow Rock Plateau origin of Xiulan's mom (https://discord.com/channels/799119283653312523/818517911655546900/1103028530696175687)
Randall Brynsvold
Small rat.
Randall Brynsvold
There was some speculation (in the comments?) that he might end up wanting to look into the source of the sudden wealth and the source of the AJTC's interest in recent years, but last we saw he was far from reaching the records of those recent years in the archives. Remember, the auditor did meet Jin and Meiling already, when he went out to try to find any peasant who would criticize TLM in "v5c10: Bureaucratic Nightmare", 5/23/24.
Evander
Is it possible that this version of Jin will get a living, flying ship. One that's an extension of the earth spirit so they can see more earth spirits.
Aaron Schwartz
No, it’s definitely to brag about his new disciple. 10 but says they all show up and he’s standing there grinning pointing to Bi De, yelling “hey everybody take a look at my giant cock!”
Alex
@John D Jones. Aren't they though? The Emperor's Herald is certainly going to be in the Imperial Realm, and Shen Yu is profoundly injured right now. There's zero chance that Shen Yu could hold his own against an Imperial Realm cultivator if a fight broke out in the near future. The Imperial Herald is nominally an ally of Shen Yu's, but their duty will be to the Emperor first and foremost: when Shen Yu first realizes who Shiyun is he says that the Emperor would be immensely pleased to find that Shiyun was still alive, and would demand she be brought before him because her prophetic abilities are a strategic asset to whoever controls them. It's entirely possible that the Imperial Herald will find Shiyun and decide to drag her back to the Emperor, and there really isn't anything Shen Yu could do about it in his current state.
John D Jones
Shen Yu: Leave the nice old lady and her elderly boyfriend alone. Or I will be upset. No one's messing with her after something like that.
seth4bucks
The icy young mistress, Lu Ri's intended, is on her way to the Azure Hills. I want to see Lu Ri with his fiance Su Ge and Miss Yuanlin interact. I don't know if Elder Chen or any of his line will be on the expedition. But I'd love for him/them to kowtow to Jin and apologize for what's his face did to Jin. Speaking of kowtowing, really would like to see Zhang Zeng's reaction when he realizes that his son attacked and insulted Shen Yu's grandson and that he was part of attacking Jin's estate. He asks what he can do as recompense and Jin Rou sends him to escort a mortal trade mission to gather plants & seeds.
seth4bucks
I think partly it's to brag about his grandson and his new disciple. But the biggest reason is they have a lead on a demonic sect that is especially strong; biggest puppet worm he's seen and first in 500 years, an imperial realm demonic cultivator that's not quite dead yet, multiple earth realm ones (including at least one that got away), new smart artificial demons, etc. He's crippled and in no condition to take on another imperial realm and he has no idea what else might be lurking around.
John D Jones
Two basic points. It's not the Crimson Phoenix Emperor himself coming to visit, but one of his Heralds AKA a person empowered to speak with his voice and make decisions in the Emperor's name with the Emperor's authority. Which is still a huge fucking deal. Second, Shen Yu is reaching out to his most powerful and loyal allies because Lu Ri captured that one Demonic base intact. Shen Yu's intent is to hunt down the rest of that Demonic sect and annihilate them from the face of the world.
Bluebag
In Vajra's mind, she still favors the emperor but the second male lead is now Bi De (the emperor's... right hand, general, etc). Whichever shall she choose? Find out during the 500 next chapters of Supreme Empress Born As A Bee!
Pat Sprehe
Whatever happened to that Imperial Auditor that last tried to mess with the Lord Magistrate? Wasn’t he on his way to Fa Ram?
Pat Sprehe
The Emperor isn’t visiting. The Emperor sent the Imperial Herald (which is probably bad enough).
Net
Exactement!
Michael Foat
Like discreet discreet or kronk discreet?
Michael Foat
D: all of the above
Kourtney Viles
The LM's reaction will definitely be awesome, poor guy!
Samantha Kuhn
I think hearing that the Emperor is visiting the Azure Hills (and I suspect the Verdant Hill region in particular) would be one step too far for the poor Lord Magistrate; his anxious mind can only handle so much! Either his heart would finally give out, or his brain would pop a blood vessel! He may have gotten used to dealing with talking Spirit Beasts, having a cultivator as his dedicated student, and having Lu Ri shanghai the archival staff into working non-stop on the mail project, but the LM could safely write off these situations as weird cultivator nonsense. The Emperor of the Crimson Phoenix Empire going to the Azure Hills, on the other hand---THAT is simply NOT done! It's a situation that cannot be reconciled with the mortals' (and the LM's) reality.! It sounds like the old Emperor didn't even go to the Azure Hills when he conquered it. Having the current one show up is surely a sign of great calamity! **The LM's gut starts churning**
Mitch McNair
No, this is an entirely proper and proportionate response. Let’s go over what he knows of his enemies. 1. They were led by a cultivator that nearly matched him. It has been stated that he could beat any of the elders of the Cloudy Sword Sect, the most powerful in the land and he was nearly matched. Now that leader is vastly reduced in power, but is alive with all those centuries of experience and leadership. 2. The enemy had access to at least 4 earth to sky realm cultivators. This seems to roughly match or exceed the Shrouded Mountain elders, noted to be the most powerful sect in a province. 3. The enemy is capable of subverting and controlling large numbers of otherwise loyal cultivators again up to the earth realm. The number of mind controlled pawns they command are unknown. Remember Zang Li was able to infiltrate and command resources from the shrouded mountain and though we know he was the only one Shen Yu does not. There could be entire sects infiltrated or under full control of the demonic cultivators, through worms, poison, or body snatching. 4. The enemy is subtle and had bases all over the Howling Fang and in the Azure Hills. He took out their main base and Shenhe others, but there is no way of knowing if they stretch into other neighboring provinces. In short he knows he struck them a terrible blow, but with what he does know and the unknowns involved they are still a terrible, insidious threat that could easily require the full Cloudy Mountain and more to root out fully. Even assuming he took out most of their power, which is a dangerous assumption, you don’t plan a fair fight in war, you ensure every advantage you can.
Ryan Naquin
She is a member of Soaring Heavens sect. CF showed her there in the alternate universe story he did there.
Zero Wrath
Do we know who she is/Where she is? Or just a random guess?
ENK
Kinda sad how hard the Wu family is gonna get insta-owned the moment they try some shit... but maybe it will keep them from trying some shit :/
ENK
Somehow, the music from this scene was playing in the back of my head at the end of the chapter: https://youtu.be/JLq7u2dyA3k?t=177
Gray Code
@Angela Roberts that subordinate was almost certainly Huian, given the description, and that the others were more clearly Yulong and Chixia.
James
My first thought was of Jin's next talk with Lord Magistrate: J: yeah, the demon cult gramps fought was led by an imperial realm cultivator. LM: I see (internally screaming). J: yeah, so he needed to send out word about this, and we're having guests from the Cloudy Sword Sect, and Heavenly Isles Sect, oh and the Emperor himself are coming to the Azure Hills. LM: WWWWWWHHHHHHAAAAAATTTT!!!!!
mojosilver82
@Gray Code It's true that Liusei calls her daughter her little orchid, But that is not enough proof for me. But I look forward to being wrong. thank you.
Net
Assemble!
V01D
To be honest, I’d love for that too, but I don’t think Xiaobao is going to be traveling with them - especially since she’s under a different Wind. The real question/hope is whether Xiulian’s mother will be traveling with them!
WonderBread459
All the times we’ve seen demonic qi disposed of, it was a small amount. With the exception what Mei mei, Bi De, and Jin pulled from Shen Yu, all the other instances of demonic corruption were at the initiate level. All of those were dealt with by Jin touching it, Tianlan taking a breath, or by dumping it into the river. Judging by the strength of our weakest fighters, Mientao or the Torrent rider, some of the artificial demons may have been in the initiate realm. Even if all of them were, there were hundreds or thousands of them, on top of the two earth realm demonic cultivators and their retinues.
Gwyn
I expect Elder Shou from CSS to immediately have an aneurysm upon seeing Jins garden.
Gray Code
@mojosilver82 That's Xiulan's mother.
Gwyn
I don't know who in the main cast is a good match, but I need Xiaobao from the sidestory to find love.
Andrew Denton
Well now that's what I'm looking forward to the most.
mojosilver82
When??? The only mom I remember is Yangtze Liusei, of Yellow Rock Plateau. Though I'd be happy to be wrong and know Xuian's mom is ok.
John Pratt
Public education, historically, is a natural byproduct of changes to the modes of production. In BoC I'd expect that public education already exists closer to the Imperial Core, where the bureaucracy becomes larger than can be sustained by noble families. Since they already have everything they need to create public schools and in those areas they also have a motive for it. Out here in the boonies though, logistics just aren't complicated enough to need more than a handful of people who understand letters and numbers. A train would change that pretty quick.
Insertnamehereokokipressedokok
Any drinking better end up with Ge tied to the ceiling this time.
Hoobs2
I GOT CHILLS! Cloudy sword sect assemble!
Cranky Otter
If that happens I will be fully satisfied.
Gray Code
@mojosilver82 It hasn't been revealed in the prime Beware of Chicken continuity, no. However, she makes appearances in the BOC : Soaring Heavens Isle AU.
Peter Gerganov
I would assume CF has decided to hold off on this, since Elder Shou would make a better POV for this and repeating the same reaction scene over and over is one element of xianxia stories I'm happy he doesn't do.
Pat Sprehe
Oh, you're right. It's the other ones - Yellow Rock and Unbroken - that aren't.
Michael Wheaton
Just thinking of the story’s handsome man will be telling his parents
FuschiaKnight
Also, Shen Yu doesn't know if the demonic cultivators have other branches and organizations floating around.
mojosilver82
I do not believe it's been said where Xuian's mom is. Only that she is on a journey.
Hound
The episode of the Simpsons where homer cant stop screaming
Pamela Gillespie
Could have happened off screen, some of the people with her are aware
Pamela Gillespie
It's demons, that's what you do if you don't wipe em out on first battle
Kreylix
I agree - this is a nice ending spot for this volume. But happy to have more, too.
Kreylix
Demons escaped - the A-Team has to get together again and hunt them down. It's what they do. It's not the job of the Azure Hills cultivators.
Kreylix
Over time, it could achieve mythic status.
Kreylix
This is quite the epic chapter. (Thunderous understatement.)
Cranky Otter
Every time Jin thinks he’s put by enough food, he gets more guests!
Walter R.
you mean a rat? :)
Cranky Otter
Thanks, always nice to have a chill sleepover chapter. Being from Ri Zu’s POV, I would have expected a little more specific plant details in the bathhouse tho.
Cranky Otter
If you’re on a phone, try Shift-Return to get a paragraph break instead of posting.
Tony
Am I the only one that feels like Cultivators will drop on the FaRam ready to battle startling everyone? Kinda feels like Shen Yu didn't explained enough and everyone who got the message overreacted. That or he wanted to brag about his grandson and his incredible Cultivator friendly place, I can see almost see the booze and the Syrup running low very soon.
Osvaldo Antonio Carmona Calderón
Lit the bacon, may the syrup roll!
David Morrison
I say don't tell the magistrate until the last minute... "um.. Magistrate, you have a few guests arriving..." 🤣
Nalhcal
Compared to when she's in her mouse form.
David Morrison
Ooo is the imperial auditor still around? That cumuppance are will be an absolute hoot
David Morrison
I think Shen yu just wants to gloat lol
Net
Frfr
V01D
Does anyone else feel like at least some members of Jin’s family are going to end up in the role of wingman/matchmaker? Especially between Lu Ri/Su Ge & Shen Yu/Minyan… Also, Ri Zu totally taking after her master’s tastes!
Truedragon5374
The Azure Jade Trading Company is going to be doing landmark business in the near future.
Truedragon5374
That thing is a flying warship. I doubt it's flies on Just ambiant chi. It's got to have an onboard power source. Actually, if I remember right, it's the last of the ships build by the Brotherhood of the Great Deer. Which means it's actually alive and possesses a very powerful spirit of it's own. So while if might not be able to fight and fly at 100%, it should still be able to fly through the Azure. The crew can do the fighting and it can probably park over Fa Ram if it needs a recharge.
Truedragon5374
I'm looking forward to Shen Yu showing The Voice the crystal with the true history of the Azure.
James C
… Wait, wasn't some member of Lady Wu's family trying to start some shit, with that Auditor or something? Just imagine the scene their next patsy might walk into: At least 3 Imperial Realm cultivators, with their disciples and assorted other forces, plus the Imperial Herald in residence?
Dnaps
Shen Yu has the scariest Rolodex by far lol
Alex
I mean it'd be a total waste if Xiulan's mom didn't show up - that's definitely going to happen. She'll probably be completely baffled that Lanlan's a Spiritual Realm cultivator now.
Catherine
I’m looking forward to the Voice of the son of heaven finding out about lu ri and the lord magistrates post delivery service
Len
oh i just thought of one other thing,, does that mean FLASHER CHAN might show up too?
Alan Williams
So will the Windward Blade even be able to fly in the Azure Hills lack of qi?
Gwyn
It would totally be Azure Hills Fried Chicken, but Jin would be the mascot, like the colonel.
Qahlz
Welp, have to reread that one again.
Len
heh in this universe, is she going to be Granny Minyan? the twin Disasters are coming them ,,Hype, them with Yin Tigu and Yushang? and Wa Shi potentially teaching them Fluid Dynamics (smaller =faster=cut thru anything)? and that 2nd half...Damn.... the CSS is not one for half responses, they go straight to the NUKE THEM FROM ORBIT Option! we NEED a side chapter/section of a chapter of the mortal's view of the initial response... first off we have the sect going on high alert. all outer disciples that are currently out of the sect in Crimson Crucible City,dropping everything and rushing back, all members of the "mechasuit mortal army" dropping everything and reporting for Duty on standby, Sect shield activating to full Defensive power, then while everyone is reporting we have the Cohort of Elders, Core and Inner Disciples Streaming out and flying -ENMASSE on their Swords--to the North-NorthWest (FA-Ram is in that direction from the CSS) i think all the mortals seeing the Cohort are gonna be very Very worried that something bad is going down. Remember, from the elders of the CSS point of View.. Shen Yu, Never asks for Help AND one of their Honored Allies was Attacked that requires an ....EXTREME RESPONSE.
Len
muhahahaha... i have it favorited so it is on my main page on RR.
Dwayne Parker
Would that be JFC or AHFC?
Walter R.
!Her smell was muted, while she was human, but the smell of home was just…comforting." Her sense of smell was muted?
Palmer Evans
Wow this is hype
Gwyn
I think the lotuses specifically are like special Yin lotus that need female yin qi to grow, hence why it grows like a weed in the bathouse the girls use, and is probably nearly impossible to grow on purpose.
Gwyn
I think he's not willing to risk his family at all, so he finally humbled himself to ask for help from everyone, to guarantee the safety of Azure Hills.
Gwyn
Oh my god I didn't even think about TLM!
Gwyn
YOOOOOO LETS FUCKING GOOOOOOO!!!! The second half of this chapter has me hyped and clapping. We're getting Soaring Heavens Isle! We're getting the Cloudy Sword Sect! We're getting Su Ge! We're getting Minyan, Bailu, and Seiyu! Holy shit, I can't wait to see their reaction to meeting their husband from another life, but poor luck, he's already married with a kid. Oh man, Jin gets to see his cultivator mom Minyan! Do you think Elder Shou will immediately have an aneurysm or some kind of cultivator heart demon attack from seeing Jin's, frankly ludicrous Collection of Sacred Herbs and Spices.
faeriehunter
Actually it can be found on Royal Road as well as Spacebattles, and maybe elsewhere as well. On Royal Road, if you check Casualfarmer's fictions you'll find two, the second of which is the Soaring Heaven Isle AU. Edit: Ninja'd by Len
Len
the soaring island au is on royal road https://www.royalroad.com/fiction/76677/boc-alternate-universe-soaring-heavens-isle
Scholar of Endless Knowledge
Fire
Rorschach SK
As each of the supreme powers prepare to head to the Azure Hills, I’m just picturing Lord Magistrate’s inner self getting more and more panicked.
Old Dog
Not to mention people from the royal household.
Old Dog
If it was built like the oriental bath houses I am familiar with bathers don't wash in the water. The body washing and rinsing is done outside the basin of water. The water in the basin(tub) is for relaxing in.
Old Dog
As always, thank you for the chapter. I'd say enjoy your break, but being sick while "off" is an order of magnitude of being a painus in the anus. Take care and see on the flip side.
Pat Sprehe
Lol. The Soaring Islands AU was never added to Royal Road, so non-Patrons won't get the significance of Bailu and Seiyu.
Jonathan V
This is Shen Yu getting the gang back together and also making sure that Services to the Empire are properly rewarded
Jonathan V
Except Shen Yu outright stated his opponent survived (albeit diminished to Profound Realm), and Yulong (Constellation Emperor) also survived mostly intact. The rest of that sect needs to be ripped out root and stem, and giving them time to go to ground and/or regroup is the wrong thing to do.
Aaron Schwartz
He got decapitated. And shen yu would’ve known if he survived. Also, while it’s possible that there’s more, it’s incredibly unlikely.
daniel koval
I will be very interested to see if Jin‘s farm gets recognized as his own sect and as a supplier for a lot of the major groups in the empire. Because isn’t he growing all sorts of regents that no one else can actually get to grow? Their bathhouse is now apparently full of mystical lilies that no one else has ever cultivated, they’ve got peaches of immortality being made in the moonshine, the root of power that no one knows what actually it is. It will be very interesting to see what the reaction all of the shenanigans that Jin has been up to will be
Ben Owens
Azure Hills ascending! Idk why this chapter triggered it but it's curious that one of the things Jin has never commented on is Public education and/or a university. I know they have the public libraries, but Jins contributions are revolutionary. His technology is soon going to create an Abundance economy, and it will likely lead to a massive increase in births as well as immigration, not to mention lives saved/aging population due to Azure Hills Force. This will lead to surplus labor (doubly so if cultivators contribute more to infrastructure) and it'd be a great opportunity to introduce public education/schools/universities to compound on their advancements and further disseminate knowledge and technology to the region. Thought it'd be a good fit for Washy and a couple other side characters like uncle Bao. Also would have been a cool tie-in when all the out of towners drop in. Jon has already broken the exclusivity of The ancient Chinese vibes and a European style university would be a fun addition to the world. Idealized as everything else Jin does, not the credentialing nonsense we have today 😂
CUI13
Jin cleared that vermin curse at one point, and Sunny had a demonic taint that he also cleared. Multiple folks from the Fa Ram have demonstrated qi that appears to be antithetical to demonic qi or creatures, so I think they should be able to break those down -- even if it might be a slow process.
WonderBread459
Depends on what kind of contamination demonic qi is. Is it a poison like cyanide which is just Carbon and nitrogen which can therefore be broken down? Or is it like heavy metal contamination where, short of radioactive decay or some other kind of transmutation, you’ll be stuck with without artificial intervention. Obviously it’s not a 1:1 analogy since demonic qi in some stories is closer to an embodiment of chaos and entropy, whereas others it’s something you can turn normal qi into. CF so far has made it interact with natural qi kind of like matter and antimatter. Either way, Jin will figure something out, and Shen Yu will make sure he gets it cleaned up. (Even if it’s not on his first try)
Maria Klein
That’s just mean!! You excelled at pre break cliffhangers. Enjoy the break!
Angela Roberts
Totally forgot about the auditor! Oh, this will be FUN!! Yes, we need two - three chapters on that. Lady Wu for the not so subtle, groin kick to her relatives!
Angela Roberts
Don't forget when the Imperial Realm Demon was checking on his subordinate's projects, what, six months ago, there was one project not mentioned by name, that the subordinate said was going well. I always wondered if they were infiltrating CSS via Chen. And, he's only mostly dead. Plus, they've been out there plotting and building bases, cultivating mind control worms, turning cultivators into demon puppets for a long, long time. Who knows what is put there? Best to get on it while we have a clue where to start!
Michael Fannon
They are about to have to feed an army. Their labour has not yet begun
Ryan Naquin
Xulan's mom may make an appearance.
CUI13
Between Jin and Meiling, they might be able to purify those demon corpses into something useful as fertilizer, right?
Angela Roberts
🤣🤣🤣 I completely forgot about the Magistrate! Can. Not. Wait.
Michael Fannon
Isn't Xuilan's mom there too? Any bets she will be in the crew?
Angela Roberts
Lu RI found an intact base, more than a few ran from the base they fought in, the Imperial demon may be dead, and never leave demons time to regroup. Especially when you have the chance for total extermination.
Randall Norman Pick
This may actually kill the Magistrate at this point, or worse, get him promoted.
Merf
The imperial realm cultivator isn't dead and they don’t know if there might be more.
Aaron Schwartz
Why is he calling for reinforcements? The imperial Realm cultivator is already dead. Sure they need to investigate what’s going on here but he doesn’t really need the big guns for that. calling in the CSS I get, they were already invested in Jin, but why the other 2?
ItWasIDIO!!
Yes but also the good vibes finally has them admit their feelings huh huh
Isak Mark
Wa Shi teaching the storm wings about water pressure wasn't on my bucket list but it sure is now. Having them compliment the lazy crab as a genius would be hilarious.
James Squibb
Avengers! Assemble!
Elijah Overland
THE BIG SISTERS RETURN!
Guber
I believe she is barrito'd up all nice and cozy like she was when she first got back. There is no shame in the 'rrito!
Evander
Shen Yu is heavily injured right now and it may take him an incredibly long period of time to heal. Given the depth and scale of the organization, what's to say that there are not other imperial realm heavenly demons. I doubt he'd survive an encounter with another one in his current state. Rather than take the risk of allowing them to gather and destroy him and his family or to completely flee, he wisely chose to call for aid. At the very least, the empire needs to be aware and he needs someone to heal him with a much larger pool of ki. I don't think Mei will be sufficient, especially with a sleeping earth spirit.
Namorat
Thanks for your input!
mojosilver82
Yay the girls of Saoring heaven's Isle are in the main story now and visiting fa ram.
NightmareChild92
Weird thought but we are so going to be getting new seeds and foodstuff from all the visitors aren't we
FuschiaKnight
It's also possible that the reinforcements will be coming rather discreetly.
FuschiaKnight
It could be either (a) qi plant magic, (b) the bath naturally cycles water through it continuously like a natural water system does so theres no single cycle of drying out, or (c) Jin and Meiling do something to keep it clean with their qi, especially Meiling with her medicinal qi that was able to purify a contaminated well even before her current level of strength.
leopard eye
The current strength of the Imperial realm is not the problem. The problem is that a person like that has been able to move around in secret for heaven knows how many years planning to overthrow the empire. What they have found until now. Both in the sea of snow and the howling fangs, might just be the tip of the iceberg. they could have many other bases of similar size they all over the empire. There might be more imperial demons and there definitely are more Earth or perhaps even Sky realm disciples in different cells. I get the impression this organisation is like a Hydra. Cut off one head, two grow back.
TygaBeast
The SMS is also out of the norm in that respect. The CSS and most other orthodox sects go for the "athletically lean" look. Some of the SMS, in contrast, were so up their own asses about seeing themselves as heroes that they went for the "heroic" look.
ArtTheGreat
I know why he called the cloudy sword sect but I am surprised that the other two also were called upon.
Will Iam
On one hand, super cool all the mobilizations and the chance of seeing Xiulan's mom and the other characters from the spin off plus the Cloudy sect seeing Jin again. On the other hand and how do the lilypads and all those plants that live in the water survive? Like if they wash in the main bathtub then they will need to clean and change the water every day which is not optimal for those plants, if not, do they have a washing area? Also hate that you can't do this formatting without an actual keyboard.
Longhaul
I get that, I'm the same way. I ended reading it because I ran out of everything else to read at the time.
Spade ♠️ Dragon
Grandmother XD now i want Shen Yu to explain to an infuriated Minyan, that he mainly asked her to come visit so he can brag about Zhuye and then they act like doting grandparents
Prent
DumDums!!!
Namorat
I don't doubt that actually ^^ for me, it just feels too weird to read from characters that are not actually the characters I know and like. There is a certain disconnect that feels uncomfortable to me ^^"
GameJunkie999
It would be a shock to her since she doesnt know that Lanlan isn't cursed anymore.
GameJunkie999
I mean I would out it down to the SMS being a very combat oriented Sect. Their warriors so to them the ideal physique would be a body similiar to Gou's.
Longhaul
I say give the AU a read, I like this one more but the AU is still really good!
GameJunkie999
They're not gonna be told most likely until things are settled. Some sects might get tidbits like the Emperors Herald going to the AH, or the CSS doing stuff, but aside from that nothing.
Juli Freixi
Thanks a lot~
Fiona
Any idea how the cultivates in the rest of the province will react to this? Jin and the Asher Heros have already made waves. Now the legends will grow even more unbelievable.
Cyrus McEnnis
Xianada is inspired. Would that make the denizens Xianucks?
Mitchell Calhoun
Can’t wait to see all the high ups be impressed by his skill and control. After being talked up by Lu Ri of course.
Just A Dude
Think of it like bedbugs. If you find you have bedbugs, you bring *everything* to bear to get rid of them, because of even one survives they'll be right back to start it all over again.
Often Irrelephant
I'm still hoping for chibi form, somewhat depowered fox uncle.
Inirlan
Yaaay, Bailu and Seiyu! Hopefully Xiulan's mom either comes along or at least sends a letter with them.
Often Irrelephant
Right? At first I was like, whoa - that feels like overkill. Then I thought about the extensive transit formations, multiple bases, SMS infiltration, communications networks, established prootcols, the strength and number of enemy combatants, and how close they came to a TPK on both fronts. Now I think Lu Ri's reinforcements should hurry it on up to strip mine that base he captured.
Dominic Antonio
With all the nation's powers converging around Fa Ram, it won't be too long till a final war arc for the realm is waged. That usually ends up with someone ascending soon after. Is this maybe the start of a grand finale for Shen Yu?
Namorat
I haven't read the AU because I generally do not want to interact with AUs. I wonder if this is actually preferable when the things become interwoven, but neither characters can act like in those stories.
Namorat
Mountain Sect crafted for themselves such a physique - wasn't it always a fact that no martial artist looked muscular like our MC? At least in the very first book they mentioned once or twice how his physique didn't fit the norm, so this feels odd to me.
Often Irrelephant
Meimei: "How many people are to dinner?!"
Beggar of Freedom
Divines bless your kind heart!
CringeWorthyStudios
THE LORD MAGISTRATE: Drums… drums in the deep. They are coming.
CringeWorthyStudios
THE LORD MAGISTRATE: *Incoherent screaming*
Ozzy
Son of heaven usually refers to a dragon.
CringeWorthyStudios
Technically Yingwen and Fengxian are aware.
Catherine
Hmm that said I’d like to see the SMS people wake up, find out the truth of their past and explore fa ram
CringeWorthyStudios
That would be amazing, right?
Catherine
Honestly this book could end here. I mean I hope it doesn’t, I want more chapters please but it feels like it could. The good guys all relaxed and recovering and the big guns preparing to leave with their arrival in the beginning of the next book.
Catherine
Agreed. I didn’t understand what was meant by Mantle of War until reading the comments. I thought it might be a battle formation or formal request to go to war with Shen Yu or something like that. Not a decision to make a war leader
BelligerentGnu
Wasn't a huge fan of the bathouse portion, but I loved the second half.
martin m
Just noted in a 2nd read... Sun Ge is enroute!! The Lu Ri's coming to see him at his finest hour!!
Truedragon5374
And if the Soaring Isles AU is even close to BoC prime, then Lanlan migh be reunited with her mom!
Truedragon5374
If a man's status is measured by the guests he hosts, then Jin is about to become the most high status farmer in the Empire.
Matsc
I'm really curious to see how She reacts (with the blow being softened by the Sword Memories) compared to Zang Zeng's reaction.
Orims
Can't wait for her to become the granny Minyan to Sen Yu's gramps.
RhythmicComa
Very glad to see Ri Zu is learning another vital skill from her Master while examining Yushang: Bisexual Panic. This didn't feel relevant to my first comment so we're doing another one
Catherine
Hopefully he made his guest house big enough!
Arin Storm
We were told none of the letters ever made it to the azure hills.
Axavia
Nope! The closest she’s gotten to the truth are the visions sent by her aunt’s sword. Basically all of the Notably Visible Mountain sect members currently at Fa Ram are unaware of the fate of their sect. Technically we’re unaware of the true fate as well, as we have no clue how the civil war ended and who came out on top.
Axavia
Yeah, I’ve been waiting for that particular plot line to come to fruition. It was understandably sidelined due to the demon raid arc, but an aside showing what Lady Wu has been up to would be great.
Cindermoth
Hahaha something finally flustered Lu Ri! Nice job gramps! But he really is right, isn't he? Lu Ri fits the description of CSS founders perfectly as far as I can tell
Neil H
It just occurred to me: With everything that's been happening since she was revived, has anyone told Elder Shenhe what went down at her sect yet?
Demian Buckle
Thank you for the Chapter.
Angela Roberts
Clouds, swords, and ships sailing to exterminate the demons! I like that Jin and Mei had everyone decompress together. That is a lovely image of them talking while the Christmas lights shine. Colds suck, enjoy the week.
RhythmicComa
Baily and Seiyu have breached containment. The primary timeline is no longer safe from their singular brain cell Although interaction with SHI means Xiulan potentially learning where her mom is if the AU is to be believed.
leopard eye
I'm thinking a literal imperial Phoenix.
Idan tal
A hundred cultivators at the earth lvl and above…yay!
ENK
I hadn't thought of that, but yes. Poor guy.
leopard eye
The dumdums are coming hurray hurray. The dumdums are coming hurray!
jord
1. Got a cold myself, sucks man. Hope we both feel better soon. 2. I am SO stoked to see the soaring heavens girls again! I've missed thier antics. 3. Shen Yu puts out the word ...And now all of Magic China knows you're here.
Idan tal
Well, Jin did say gramps can bring his “special lady friend”.. but boy oh boy the “avengers assemble” vibe we got here was epic. I hope our lovely earth spirit won’t get a heart attack 😱
Marcin
Well things escalated quickly... also poor poor Magistrate... :D
Matsc
Or pull the "Shennong Bullshit Go!" hand-wave and claim they got earth spirit vibes about something icky up north.
Matsc
(Jin, only expecting an Elder or two from the Cloudy Sword) ....does anyone else hear Boss Music?
Matsc
Last year, over the Christmas Break, CF released a few chapters of an alternate history, where Jin was sent to the Soaring Heaven Isles sect instead of the Cloudy Sword. Its a fun read, if rather short and incomplete. Those two were Jin's closest friends in that alternate universe. "BOC Alternate Universe: Soaring Heaven's Isle" is the title over on RoyalRoad.
Fluffy druid
I am more worried, that whoever betrayed and broke her, will find her.
Matsc
My first thought was Temple Dog, but I'll admit that's a long shot.
Jo
Can’t wait to see Minyan wanting to poach all these lovely kickass Azure Hill women, CSS reacting to EVERYTHING Fa Ram, and maybe the Imperial Herald reacting to the breaking! Meanwhile the SMS trying to heal incognito in the background while getting a concussion from all the kowtowing. Will we see a clash of the ladies Lu Ri has charmed?! May the Heavens be kind to you Senior Brother, for a woman scorned is no small thing! I wonder if Nezan can be turned into a subordinate spirit of the land like the General? Thank you for a wonderful chapter. Have a great rest week and wishing you a speedy recovery!
Merf
Yeah they were only mentioned I think once before. The Emperor can’t leave his throne without losing much of his power, so he has a herald to fight for him. If I recall correctly, Shen Yu turned down the position to keep his freedom
RedFaux
A sidestory. An alternate universe where Jin does things other than flee to the Azure Hills.
Floyd
Soaring Heavens Isle AU; a world where Shen Yu followed through on his joke about sending Jin Rou to stay with Minyan and her sect, rather than sending him to the Cloudy Sword. Available on Patreon, Spacebattles, and Royal Road (as a fiction seperate to BOC). Possibly anywhere else CF posts, but those are the ones I know.
Katharine Gould
Soaring heavens isle it's a what if Jin was at the all women sect instead of cloudy sword
ItWasIDIO!!
Summoned grandmother & coulda been harem but also is ya borrowing trouble sending for help from the emperor?
Desert Yeti
Slightly surprised that Xiulan isn't curled up with Jin and Meiling. Kinda sad she's all alone.
Desert Yeti
And don't forget that the CSS will love TLM. They think he's the model mortal magistrate. They'll back him to the hilt.
Stark Trist
Wait, there is another timeline?
linkhyrule5
Oh wow. That is some _serious_ escalation. ... I guess because a) two Imperial Realm Demonic Cultivators in a row implies there may be _more_, b) they know for a fact they let at least one competent, subtle Earth Realm of a powerful bloodline get away with the last remnants of Jingsheng, and there's no _way_ that will be harmless?
BlueMage Theneras
Here I was expecting the Cloudy Sword to send an elder or two, maybe a squad of "lower" disciples as support. Hoooooooly crap, the final boss music just gained a Latin chorus for the demons!
D375
I wonder if the imperial realm demonic cultivator was the only one or if there are more out there somewhere.
Randall Brynsvold
On the one hand, I don't know if anyone but Shen Yu could find and recognize her. On the other hand, it'll be clear that *someone* warned the Fa Ram team, even if they don't say who it was. Perhaps Shen Yu will cover for her and say he sent a sword-message to Jin.
Aurelius
The Lord Magistrate is going to have a heart attack with all this high level cultivators.
Christian
I wonder if that herald is also a chicken, or some sort of spirit beast
WolfKnight22
Oh shit things just got epic
Purple Floof
Love seeing the characters from the Soaring Heaven Isles alt-universe!
James Faulkner
Holy shit I thought things were gonna wind down for a bit but things are kicking up!
Loah
Maybe our favorite Lord Magistrate will finally cough up some blood
Aki_Iokua18
INCONCEIVABLE!!!!
Alex Ingraham
Nice Princess Bride reference there!
Brian P.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the base mostly evacuated the people doing the research & creating the horrors. Gramps probably knows some of this, with how everyone got out of there and was shown to still be around, not to mention the base Lu Ri took over. So it was a large organization and it's STILL pretty large with all or most of its people intact, just the soldiers having been killed. You don't want to let them build back up.
Brian P.
Not all of them. Some of them required mountain air (or lack thereof) in order to grow and Jin has yet to give Bowu inspiration for a barometric chamber.
Brian P.
The plot chickens.
StarBat
Jin is going to be unhappy about the escalation. But he's already unhappy at the attack.
Alex Ingraham
Yeah, he does it on purpose!! Rabble rabble rabble! Rabble!!! lol
Alex Ingraham
TLM is going to SOOO HAPPPY with this development!😈
Robert Mullins
One landscape of fan-service and one landscape of man-service.
Kuratenshi
Tsuu is going to go NUTS with this chapter.
TwoRavens
Ah, but don't forget, he's only mostly dead!
John B Barnes
Oh heck yeah! Bailu and Seiyu from the other timeline are back!
Dwayne Parker
I love it! They are not playing with demonic cultivators. I don’t know how many stories I’ve read that didn’t take the threat seriously.
Valerian
Imperial Herald huh? I believe this is a new character.
Saaski
Shen Yu “Do you mind if I call on a few comrades?” Jin “Alright” Shen Yu “Allies! We are at War!!!”
Anzer'ke
Doubtful. This Jin is older and more settled. But also, on my fifth re-read of that sidestory and still getting choked up by it.
Anzer'ke
Keep running Yulong. Just keep running.
Anzer'ke
Poor mail system. Lu Ri is working on it.
Alex
Hold up, if the whole circus is coming to town aren’t they going to find Shiyun? Her whole deal was that she wanted nothing to do with cultivator bullshit ever again because her powers were horrible to use. It’d be tragic if the Imperial Herald found her.
Harish
With Imperial Realm Demonic Cultivator running around, a realm that takes hundreds if not a thousand years to achieve, it shows just how competent and careful the enemy is. Anything short of the response shown by SHIS, CSS and Imperial Throne is not just underwhelming, it is blatant neglect.
Harish
But there can be nuance to the title that still needs to be explained. Plus, the explanation cuts off in such a way that it is jarring to read. Just imagine that Halo threw the phrase "Mantle of Responsibility" without explaining it. We would be left scratching our heads until the cows came home
Anzer'ke
Just think, if Xiulan's mother comes along on that crew, Meimei may decide to make herself Oyakodon. ;p
Rory
It's self-explanatory, in times of peace, a council makes decisions, but in times of war, you need a Supreme Commander to make decisions, so someone must don the Mantle of War
Anzer'ke
Minyan being tsundere for Shen Yu just does not get old. Oh there is just so so much potential going into the next volume. Phenomenal work Casual.
Homeless One
Wonder if Jin will call her mom in this one too. Got me choked up when that happened back then, will get choked up this time as well
tien
Thanks CF. Have a good break.
Brandon Cleveland
It’s a good thing that Verdent Hill is so close to Fa Ram and his staying there could be seen as a favor to Shen Yu’s grandson.
Homeless One
I mean, Shen Yu went into that fight wounded, and almost lost twice. He would have lost if Bi De's appearance didn't bewilder the demonic Cultivator enough to leave an opening. With Ri Zu screaming at how is he still alive, he's undeniably out of commission for any serious fights in the short term while he heals. He's been benched, and is calling for backup as a result.
Gg
Love it 😻 also we get the sky island I had forgotten about it
Really_Big
Relaxt -> relax TFTC LOVE THIS ❤️
BargleNawdleZouss
I'm glad Minyan is not bringing the Divine Wind itself. That crew might eat even Fa Ram out of house and home!
Arnon Parenti
Lady Wu gets to host an Imperial Voice, the lord Magistrate gets to host a hundred cultivators.
Mark Greenberg
In the Alternate Universe story CF wrote about What If Jin had been sent to the SHI sect instead of to the CSS.
Ttran2323
Oh wow that is a hell of a lot more people coming to the Azure Hills than I thought there'd be I guess now is when Jin is gonna be formally introduced to everyone which will be an... interesting meeting to look forward too
Michael W
She showed up briefly in the non-canon side story where Jin was taken in by the Soaring Heaven sect.
Robert Mullins
Shen Yu: Fa-Ram calls for aid --- Elder Ge: And the Cloudy Sword Sect shall answer. --- Emperor: And the Empire shall answer. --- Minyan: And Soaring Heaven Isle's shall answer.
Angel
The build up through the section with Elder Ge mobilizing the full might of the CSS was a palpable wave of emotion, culminating in full blown tears! I don’t know how you do it, but damn it’s powerful. The push/pull of emotions at the farm, from sadness to laughter to shared love and hope…damn. Well. Done. To so beautifully capture this long buildup of emotions, I can imagine you’ve been on quite the roller coaster yourself. Thank you for putting your heart and soul into this, and I hope you get some real, actual, zero-pressure rest!
Qahlz
Was it mentioned somewhere that she joined the Soaring Heaven Islands Sect?
Victor Segura
Man, I hope we get Demons who can, in fact, face the entire might that has been assembled here. Like the luck of the heavens, thanks to this, they discovered a Heavenly Demonic Enemy, in the nick of time. Otherwise, this seems like an overkill with the death of the old monster.
Harish
You really know how to put us all on edge. A week!!! I really need a Time machine damn it!! "Disciples of the Cloudy Sword Sect. Assemble." -> As I read this, I could literally see the Avengers style preparation going on right before me. "Mantle of War" -> The paragraph explains that CSS governs itself as a Council but it does not explain what the title means.
frankie doerr
Bie de is finally going to go to the other sects I wonder if xialan is going to meet her mom
андрей ткач
interesting they will go to kill prime demon in ice?
Melanie Me
Thank you for this slice of life. I kinda wish there was the men's bath house moments.
Featherweight
Cloudy Sword elders sound like they’re about to do a little dance then combine to form a giant robot.
Harish
Would be nice. But I'm not sure if that will happen. Still would be REALLY NICE to see.
Angel
Hahaha excellent point!!! 🤣
Harish
Lady Wu is nowhere near that kind. If anything, that auditor and his backers are about to be in very deep swamps for a long time. Especially if the slaving ring in Grass Sea City is mentioned to the Imperial Herald. And on that note, the SMS members are going to be in for the shock of their lifetime. I love how CF manages to display powerplays without needing overt descriptions of it.
SilasDrekken
Gondor calls for aid!
CalvinCopyright
I mean, Imperial Realm demonic cultivator. And not just that, an Imperial Realm demonic cultivator who nearly managed to kill Shen Yu. That sound, if you're curious, is the sound of Xianada's Godzilla Threshold being blown into eeny bitty pieces.
Duke of Coffee
The army assembles and the horns are blowed, will the demonic cultivators quiver in fear and flee or will they stand and fight to the death? Meanwhile, in the farm, the family relax for their labour is done for now.
Randall Norman Pick
Oh boy Jin's going to have to make the guest rooms bigger again.
Barry Morgan
Yeah, I could see that!
Kat Wilton
OK, we obviously are getting all the heroes together for a proper RUMBLE! (sure, likely to be in the next volume, but... HUZZAH!) I love how you build and develop this world and the characters, CF - keep up the amazing work! I pray you feel better quickly and have a restful break *sends hug *
Peter Gerganov
Hell yeah, Old Geezer arc let’s go!
Robert Mullins
Ri Zu becomes a proper horndog when the human hormones are given time to kick in. Got so worked up by the man-service that I think she was feeling pretty bi-curious by the end there.
Barry Morgan
I expect The Lord Magistrate's efforts with Lu Ri on the new mail system to get noticed and praised by The Emperor's Herald, honestly. Hopefully they will let him stay in Verdant Hill in order to continue this Great Work, but we shall see.
vetsin
Exciting, all power moves like this should have a 5 volume lead up.
Adam
Hell yeah what a cliffhanger. Great stuff coming down the pipe for our friends at Fa Ram.
Trevor Mergen
Thanks!
Homeless One
"Oh, and that other part". CasualFarmer trying to give us a heart attack here, all the empire going on a war footing
K1NG_CHIMP
Oh snap, there's gonna be some serious player converging on that little farm! I love it!
Klown Keidra
Just imagine Lady Magistrate just giving a sly little note to her sister "You see who came to my town, don't try shit"
Barry Morgan
Su Ge, Minyan, Bailu, Seiyu, the elders of the CSS, and a representative of The Emperor himself, all converging on Verdant Hill at once? Truely, my cup runneth over! The Lord Magistrate, on the other hand, will be at risk of having an aneurysm. And the Imperial Auditor may be at risk of so much worse...
EqualPhysics
So many good things lined up. Bringing back memories of catching episodes of my favorite shows on TV as a kid. The waiting is painful, but only because the story is so damn good.
The GrandMage
THE LORD MAGISTRATE will try to avoid that at all costs. He's too good an administrator. If he falls under the eye of The Son of Heaven, he'll be promoted far beyond what he wants. He's trying to live a simple life, without all the backbiting vipers of politics. And even if he somehow restricted his promotion to only overseeing the Provence, which the Cultivators banding together and helping him stamp out corruption would make things easier, it's still far too much work and politics, especially with all this demonic sect business.
Klown Keidra
My guess is two main reasons. First is an Imperial Realm Cultivator and their actual plans made it quite far without being noticed, along with the Puppet Worm. Second is I think Shen Yu needs an outside set of eyes for what is obviously family being the Heavenly Demon.
Trish Brown
Have a restful break x
Auralia
Accursed author! Leaving us with a cliffhanger after reading THAT?!
jordan coli
At first, I was surprised at shen yu calling Everyone... then I remember how big a deal an imperial realm demonic cultivator, with a competently led hidden cell based Sect actually is.
Monkeytoster
Hell yes! I'm betting that Xuilan's mom will be on that boat or will at least be brought up!
Eric Hicks
Thank you for the chapter, it was enjoyable as always. Excuse me while I curl up in a ball in the corner and cry about hanging off of a cliff for a week. ;p
Kendra
Please feel better
Monkeytoster
Finding an imperial realm demon cultivator is is equivalent of sending a message to all the military leaders that 'Hey, I found this stray Nuke. We should probably check on that.'
Kasinki
Thank you for the chapter!!! Enjoy your rest, and take care, CF! I love the details you've placed in this chapter, as well as the slow build up of what's coming next.
litalmexy
I was expecting CSS to get notified, but i guess gramps is more thunder cats Hoo for this. I am curious if SmS will shit a brick now and how this will affect the Woo issue.
asdo
The Demons dare to show their face and even use one of their greatest combatants, time for Humanity to show why they failed before with more.
Story Time Compass
o7
CrazyExplorer
While cool. I am a little confused as to why shen yu needs so much help. I suppose it's to search and destroy any hint of the demonic sect. The impresión I got was that It wasn't that big, but I guess with an imperial realm demon as leader, It probably was much bigger than I imagined, and they want to start searching on the location where they first appeared (Azure Hills and Howling mountains).
Kat
Absolutely 💯
QuietlyObserving
BAILU AND SEIYU CANON!!!!! oh and a bunch of other people too I guess. A good unwinding episode overall.
Rune Shadow
What a cliffhanger to leave us on for a week, lol. All hell's about to break loose. Rest up and feel well wordsmith we eagerly await your next chapter
Ham
Thanks for the chapter! Can’t wait to see everyone’s reaction to Fa Ram! Hope you have a nice break!
Aki_Iokua18
This is a much nicer cliff than previous ones. Do you think Ri Zu and Vajra’ll bond or clash over their shared thirst? As people have said, this seems like an excellent time to let the fields rest (at least mostly, still need to have enough for meals and such), and with such reliable guardians, it seems ripe to have a family grand tour of the Azure Hills (plus fixing the damage done Tianlan’s dragon veins.) I thought we’re still in the cool down period, but here you are getting me all hyped up for the future events that’re to come. Hopefully you aren’t operating on Eichiro Oda timelines. Anywho CF, thanks for the chapter. I do not envy you the headache you will have when you awaken. But for now, rest well and dream of large women.
The GrandMage
Could this mean. . . Xiulan will learn about her mother?
Kat
I kind of want Wu family to hear the Emperor himself praise the Lord Magistrate’s town 😂
THEMIGHTYBOXHEAD
you DARE leave us on such a cliff hanger! I will have you write 1000 line as penance! enjoy your break and get well! i cannot wait to see what comes next!
Lanter
Hot damn, Shen Yu really went and called EVERYONE. Top tier support for the top tier problem solving. ... and oh dear, the lord Magistrate might faint from all of this coming to his small safe province lol.
Kat
What a great chapter!!
Cj
Welp the demon sect is extra fucked their leader is reduced, their bases are revealed and at minimum two imperial cultivators and an army of high level ones are on the war path
Arcman
Lord Magistrate, I hope you're ready to handle all the new visitors coming to the Azure Hills.
Patanahi
Thank you for the chapter rest well !!
martin m
Cultivator Avengers, Assemble!!! TYFTC!!
Matsc
Oh I can't wait to see the Cai family reunion! I know in the AU story Xiulan's Mom mentioned her letters weren't being replied to, but Our Xiulan mentions never having gotten letters, so... I wonder what has been happening...
Mike
Thanks for the chapter, gets some sleep you deserve it
Laura Hemly
Thanks much for the chapter, and get yourself healthy!
Guber
Somewhere in the Azure Hills, the most magnificent Lord Magistrate's stomach starts to tense and roll. He does not yet know why. But the dread is there.
Npad11111
Such sinister cliffhanger... How dare you CF. Hahaha. Well played, enjoy your break and hope you feel better soon.
WarStrider72
The Lord Magistrate might actually have a heart attack from stress when the Emperor's herald, the war party from the Cloudy Sword Sect, and Minyan's flying ship arrive.
Baldanders
Magnificent chapter. You're a bastard to leave us on this cliffhanger, though. :P
Klown Keidra
Some poor person, near the boarder of Azure Hills will see basically their entire legends and folk tales come waltzing past with intent in their eyes. It'll feel like the world is ending.
tim
Oh man this chapter was awesome. Perfect mix of fun slice of life and Cloudy Sword Xianxia.
BRUNO ASTUR
You deserve the rest... but man. What a cliff to let us on.
Joker Nijima
Thanks for the chapter!
Devon
The Fa Ram is going to have a lot of guests soon
Seaspike
Nice "Avengers Assemble" moment.
Ritsu
I love how seriously everyone is taking this. Shen Yu calling in everyone. No half-measures whatsoever. Even though Shen Yu won, nobody's complacent. They're all ready to root out the demons root and stem.
N U
ESCALATION
Lochlan Yone
Oh all them getting their call to arms gave me goosebumps
WarStrider72
Wonder what the Storm Wing's reaction to Jin will be? And also of Minyan's reaction as well.
KnightRider007
I love this sort of scene at the end. And we get to see the Storm Wings again ^.^
mhaj58
This is cruel, going on break just when the powers of the world are coming. I’m looking forward to the 14th
CringeWorthyStudios
And Meiling’s harem grows once again. 🤣
Sean McClain
Wow, he lit the becons, gondor calls for aid!
Rake1810
Holy shit. I was absolutely not expecting a mobilization like that. Thanks for the chapter!
Jon Dough
YAY!!! Thanks for the chapter! Enjoy your break!
Andrew Denton
Now it's Su Ge's time to shine!
WarStrider72
The copium is just that good
WarStrider72
Nothing like Meiling molesting.... cough.... checking up on everyone in the bath house. And all those cultivators come rushing to Fa Ram! Can't wait to see Elder Shou cough blood again growing every seed that was given to him!
CringeWorthyStudios
Oh holy shit THE LORD MAGISTRATE (yes, capitalisation is obligatory) is going to be so fucking stressed. Jin too for that matter. That’s, what, four Imperial realm cultivators coming to the Azure Hills, plus their entourages? Thanks for the chapter!
LazyF0x02
I'm going to enjoy seeing Shen Yu's contacts coming and introducing themselves, only for Jin's family to go, "Oh, that's nice, thanks for coming," while the Shrouded Mountain cultivators are frozen stiff in fear.
Monik
I should I figured when shen yu calls for help it is taken as holy crap all hell is breaking loose
lockx
What a cliff. The world moves because of the Azure Hills
Nick gerhold
AU characters coming into play!
Vicente Huerta
The plot thickens
Ford-Thomas Frank Loveland
Woohooo, the storm wings are gonna show up in the main story line. Gonna be best friends with Tigu
Thomas Brusilovsky
Woooo. Holy fuck what an exciting chapter.
Sean Ulrich
Hey! The girls from the spin off showed up!
Raraki Kraken
Bailu and Seyu incoming... I KNEW IT, YEEEEEES!!!!!!! 🤣🥳😁🏆
Justin
Thanks for the chapter! Jin's teach is going to have spasms! And I wonder how the Storm wings will react to this!
WarStrider72
thanks for the chapter boss! Enjoy your break and sleep!
Raraki Kraken
Wow you are fast
WarStrider72
1st
