Chapter 1710: Chapter 985: Japan’s Number One Spiritual Magic Artifact User (Part 2)
The Second Demon Uncle previously mentioned to him that such items are best used only in desperate situations, not in favorable conditions or even ones of balance.
And indeed, the words of the Second Demon Uncle, who roamed the martial world sixty years ago, proved true: the Ghost Sleeve Robe is very useful in dire straits, turning the tide for Yang Xiao several times when the situation was against him.
The Ghost Bell is actually not bad either, though the random sealing of magical artifacts is quite frustrating; for an Angel Envoy with two or three artifacts, it can still be worth a gamble, a chance to seal a critical artifact is worth the risk, but it’s cumbersome against an expert like Jiu Shan Sha Yue.
Using this item results in great spiritual power consumption. If the opponent’s key artifact isn’t sealed and the energy bar is exhausted, he will become a punching bag for the opponent, which is why the Second Demon Uncle had given this item a low appraisal, bluntly calling it a clever little trinket that should be used with caution.
Yang Xiao’s greatest strength lies in obedience; whoever is strong, whoever treats him well, he listens.
Actually, thinking about it in a different light, the Opera Robe Ghost has also treated him decently; although it’s a change of skin, she indeed lent a hand in solving many troubles for him.
Yang Xiao is a person who knows gratitude; he remembers the kindness of the good sister. In the future, when he can fully harness the good sister’s power, every time he draws spiritual strength from her, he will light incense sticks for her, praying for her safety.
"Mr. Yang Xiao, thank you for helping Sha Yue fulfill her wish. You are a respectable opponent. I apologize for my rudeness." Jiu Shan Sha Yue solemnly bowed to Yang Xiao.
"Miss Sha Yue’s outstanding skills were truly an eye-opener." After the duel, it was time for the familiar round of mutual compliments, especially with the elders of the Jiu Mountain family present; Yang Xiao needed to give them face.
Jiu Shan Sha Yue then walked over to the tree, carefully picked up the rag doll from beneath it, and held it close as she quickly departed.
Yang Xiao originally wanted to exchange more words with her, asking about the origin of the rag doll as he sensed its importance to Jiu Shan Sha Yue. But it was a mere ordinary doll, and Yang Xiao detected no spiritual power feedback from it.
Yang Xiao watched Jiu Shan Sha Yue walk alone into the shadows of the courtyard corner where another person was standing, seemingly her companion; Yang Xiao clearly remembered seeing her with this person upon her arrival.
A night breeze passed, and under the swaying lantern hanging from the eaves, Yang Xiao discerned the person’s features: a young man, dressed in a Daoist robe, with well-defined brows and gentle manner. Upon perceiving Yang Xiao’s gaze, the man politely nodded to Yang Xiao and then left with Jiu Shan Sha Yue.
"The man’s clothing doesn’t look like Japan, and it doesn’t feel like..."
As Yang Xiao focused on the man’s silhouette, Mu Yunshu’s voice came from behind, "Well done, achieving a draw is the best outcome; no need to fly back home. I’ll report truthfully to the General Bureau and request merit for you."
Just as the words were spoken, Jiu Shan Cangxuan descended the stone steps toward Yang Xiao, wearing a kind and slightly apologetic smile, "Mr. Yang Xiao, I sincerely apologize. This matter is entirely the responsibility of the Jiu Mountain Family, my failure to restrain the clan members. I represent the Jiu Mountain Family, in apologizing to you and the Patrol General Bureau."
After speaking, Jiu Shan Cangxuan stood straight, seemingly ready to bow to Yang Xiao. This startled Yang Xiao, who hurriedly reached out to prevent it; he dared not let Jiu Shan Cangxuan bow to him. This old fellow holds such stature in the martial world that even the head of Japan’s Ghost Sect would be reprimanded by him; Yang Xiao thought himself unworthy of such a bow.
Finally, after a few courteous exchanges from Yang Xiao, the matter was resolved. He understood that the other party was merely being polite; allowing the bow would indicate his ignorance and make it difficult to explain to the General Bureau afterward.
Nevertheless, this highlighted Jiu Shan Cangxuan’s character: acknowledging errors promptly without hesitation.
"Miss, may I invite Mr. Yang Xiao for a walk alone?" Peering beyond Yang Xiao, Jiu Shan Cangxuan addressed Mu Yunshu standing behind him; the pair had been inseparable in public settings recently.
"Of course, Family Head Jiu Shan, please proceed." Mu Yunshu slightly bowed her head, giving a polite smile.
Now, the situation was clear—Jiu Shan Family veterans had long seen through the intricacies between Yang Xiao and Mu Yunshu, knowing Yang Xiao as merely a puppet envoy whereas the assistant girl behind him was the actual conductor; presently, Jiu Shan Cangxuan had words intended only for Yang Xiao.
With Mu Yunshu’s consent, Jiu Shan Cangxuan headed towards the inner courtyard, followed closely by Yang Xiao, as the remaining Jiu Mountain family members retreated.
Jiu Shan Cangxuan led Yang Xiao into a lantern-decked corridor. The atmosphere was casual as if he intended to continue without stopping.
"Mr. Yang Xiao, you must be puzzled why Yuezi disregarded etiquette to challenge you." Jiu Shan Cangxuan lightly sighed, "She wasn’t acting for herself, but for Xingzi. Xingzi was her Sword and Sword Servant and closest friend."
"That rag doll?" Yang Xiao pondered, recalling that Jiu Shan Sha Yue referred to the rag doll as Xingzi.
"Yes, that rag doll was a gift from Xingzi who accompanied her growing up. Xingzi was Yuezi’s rare friend within the family."
"Xingzi... is gone. Over a year ago, the family tasked her with escorting a valuable object but, unfortunately, word leaked. Her group was ambushed by villains, resulting in their deaths, including Xingzi." Jiu Shan Cangxuan explained, "Mr. Yang Xiao, you are astute enough to guess that the attackers were Japan’s Iga Sect ninjas. The one who killed Xingzi was the female ninja ’Shadow Spider’ you eliminated."
"In Japan, it’s said that those who die outside their homeland can’t return there, becoming lost souls and wild ghosts unless their relatives find the murderer and personally avenge them, thereby concluding the karma."
"For over a year, Yuezi searched for these Iga ninjas, especially ’Shadow Spider,’ yet they remained elusive; unexpectedly, they ventured into your territory."
"I see." Yang Xiao nodded slowly, "It seems the stolen treasure was the Broken Seal I found."
"Indeed." Jiu Shan Cangxuan confirmed, "The seal holds special significance for the Jiu Mountain Family, so... thanks for returning it, our family owes you a personal favor, Mr. Yang Xiao."
These words made things clear; it’s a favor owed to Yang Xiao personally, not to the Patrol Defense Office; they weren’t involved.
Yang Xiao preferred dealing with astute people; this resonated with him.
"Senior Jiu Shan, you’re too gracious, I’m honored." Yang Xiao naturally adopted a different form of address, focusing on his relationship with the Jiu Mountain Family, distinct from the Patrol Defense Office.
Purely personal dealings were why Jiu Shan Cangxuan isolated Mu Yunshu.
Indeed, one is respected when capable; had he been soundly defeated today by Jiu Shan Sha Yue, he doubted Jiu Shan Cangxuan would approve of him. These are his accomplishments earned through personal skill.
Within the Apostle World, power is always the ultimate respect, and like him, promising young talents are sought after by major factions.
This time, it’s Japan’s Kusunoki Family, before were the Esoteric Sect, Yi Sect, Black Buddha Mother, even Dean Sheng of the Yiling Academy—each extending greetings.
"Mr. Yang Xiao, you are a friend to our Jiu Mountain Family; your performance today was remarkable. Yuezi, spoiled by us, benefited from your lesson, and we are grateful." Jiu Shan Cangxuan said.
"Senior, you’re too modest. Miss Sha Yue is truly impressive. Frankly speaking, I scarcely encounter such talents as Miss Sha Yue’s in my country; her future is immeasurable." Yang Xiao spoke with seventy percent sincerity and thirty percent flattery.
Jiu Shan Cangxuan chuckled and nodded, tacitly agreeing. Then he shifted topics, asking, "I could discern some spirit during your battle with Sha Yue. It appears you used a spiritual magic artifact, though... seemingly awkwardly. I possess some superficial knowledge in this area; if you don’t mind, you could let me examine the item, perhaps it’ll help you."
