The Ethereal Domains

Chapter 286: Your Purpose?

Your Purpose? . . .

After those enigmatic words had graced the ears of those in the martial world, the most formidable force the world had ever known, the House of the Chaotic Storm, chose to disband. Such a decision held inherent significance that left them forever shrouded in an air of mystery and intrigue.

For the martial community, these cryptic words were akin to a tantalizing riddle, sparking an insatiable curiosity about the potential secrets they might contain. They pondered whether comprehension of this enigma might unlock profound truths or grant them a measure of the power their departed master had wielded.

Thus, the phrase became an invaluable enigma, a treasure code of sorts, following Master Bai's disappearance. However, despite countless efforts to decipher its meaning, few made tangible progress. In their quest for understanding, many martial practitioners met untimely deaths, falling victim to the very mysteries they sought to unravel.

In the midst of this contemplation, Master Bai shifted his focus to Cha Eun Xiao, emerging from the ethereal tendrils of lingering smoke. His tone remained even as he inquired, "Dozens Red... Where did you encounter him?"

Moments of reflection passed as he continued with a thoughtful murmur, "It shouldn't have been within the Land of Han-Yang; it must have been in the Qing-Yun Realm."

Cha Eun Xiao was taken aback by this precise deduction. Indeed, he had crossed paths with Dozens Red in the Qing-Yun Realm, a time before he had ascended to the mantle of the Xiao Monarch.

Master Bai's discerning gaze remained fixed upon Cha Eun Xiao as he continued his inquiry, "You hail from the Qing-Yun Realm, am I correct?"

Before Cha Eun Xiao could respond, Master Bai pressed on, his observations cutting deep, "However, your current state... it suggests that you have faced adversity. Were you struck down?"

Cha Eun Xiao found himself both astonished and disconcerted by Master Bai's uncanny ability to extract profound insights from the scant information he had provided. The master had yet to complete his deductions, leaving Cha Eun Xiao on edge, bracing for what might follow.

"When you crossed paths with Dozens Red, it must have been dozens of years ago, perhaps even a century past," Master Bai remarked in a measured tone. His gaze remained fixed upon Cha Eun Xiao as he continued, "That's why your current appearance is deceptive. You're in disguise."

The master's eyes bore into Cha Eun Xiao as he posed a question that pierced through the veils of time, "This is why it feels peculiar, as if I've encountered you but remember nothing. I believe we met long ago. Yes, you've met me before."

Cha Eun Xiao was acutely aware of the intensity in Master Bai's gaze. His eyes seemed to sear into his very soul, like thunderbolts and lightning locking onto their target.

Under this unwavering scrutiny, Cha Eun Xiao experienced an inexplicable sensation. It was as though Master Bai's gaze possessed the power to illuminate the deepest recesses of his heart, laying bare all his hidden secrets. No one could remain unaffected under such an intense stare.

In response, Cha Eun Xiao tactically averted his gaze, consciously breaking the eye contact. While he yearned to proceed with the conversation without showing weakness, the profundity of Master Bai's eyes proved overpowering.

Cha Eun Xiao recognized his own prowess in cultivation, but he understood that his mental fortitude paled in comparison to that of Master Bai. Continuing to lock gazes risked exposing secrets he wished to keep concealed. Despite his reluctance, he opted to withdraw from the unrelenting gaze.

This reaction astonished Wan-Er, her expression mirroring her incredulity. Her master's Soul Sight, a technique that could immobilize individuals and unveil their innermost secrets, had never been so casually dismissed by anyone.

Under ideal conditions, Master Bai could immobilize a person and penetrate the depths of their psyche, a power that remained formidable even in his current state of recovery.

Cha Eun Xiao, however, skillfully averted his gaze with an air of nonchalance. His mastery over the situation was truly remarkable.

Acknowledging Cha Eun Xiao's composure, Master Bai expressed his surprise. He regarded Cha Eun Xiao with an air of respect, remarking, "Feng Monarch is indeed an exceptional individual."

Cha Eun Xiao responded with a modest demeanor, saying, "I am flattered. I happen to possess some experience in the realm of mind cultivation."

Master Bai, his countenance serene, offered a tranquil reply, "However, it falls short. What you possess is but a mere trifle before me."

Though his tone remained calm, his words resonated with overwhelming authority.

"That's true. Master Bai, you are akin to a deity, far beyond our reach," Cha Eun Xiao acknowledged, furrowing his brow slightly and nodding in a nonchalant manner. His demeanor conveyed the sentiment that while Master Bai was an awe-inspiring figure, Cha Eun Xiao refused to be perceived as weak.

Master Bai astutely discerned the underlying meaning behind Cha Eun Xiao's words. A glint of amusement flickered in his eyes, gradually giving way to an icy demeanor. He remarked, "You approached me using words I once spoke. You sought entry for a purpose beyond mere conversation."

"You are indeed astute," Cha Eun Xiao concurred.

Master Bai continued with a dispassionate tone, "Those two sects have been exerting pressure on Ling-Bao Hall."

"Yes, they have," Cha Eun Xiao affirmed.

Master Bai scrutinized Feng Zhiling's countenance with his sharp, cold eyes, and he spoke in an unflustered manner, "Ling-Bao Hall may have been compelled into conflict, but it will not prevail against both of the great sects simultaneously. Even facing just one of them, you are bound to fail."

Cha Eun Xiao nodded in agreement.

Master Bai adopted an air of casual indifference as he asserted, "Thus, you seek my assistance. Confronting both sects simultaneously, there is no one else capable of offering you meaningful aid except for me."

"Even with the backing of your entire kingdom, you would remain powerless," he continued.

Cha Eun Xiao responded calmly, reinforcing his intent, "As I mentioned, I seek not your favor but rather cooperation. Should you decline, we will manage the current situation on our own. Rest assured, victory is not beyond our grasp."

Master Bai maintained his composure, his eyes revealing a hint of disdain. Observing the wafting smoke in the air, he declared, "Why should I assist you? I can think of no compelling reason to do so. It is a conundrum that even a sage like me finds difficult to resolve."

Cha Eun Xiao's demeanor remained casual, but a subtle smile graced his features as he explained, "I do not entreat you for a favor, but rather propose a mutually beneficial partnership. If you decline, we shall address the present situation independently. Nevertheless, our odds of success are not insurmountable."

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