Chapter 42: Yun Hai, the Top True Disciple of Baiyang Sect, Teaching Gu Yang a Lesson? The Northern Snow Sect, much like the Flowing Clouds Sect, had built its headquarters atop a mountain. The Northern Snow Sect’s mountain was a vast, snow-covered peak. From the flying vessel, everyone could see the sheer grandeur of the snow-capped summit. At its peak, spiritual energy swirled like mist. Majestic structures loomed faintly within the haze, giving the impression of an immortal paradise. Google seaʀᴄh 𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗹✶𝗳𝗶𝗿𝗲✶𝗻𝗲𝘁 As the vessel descended, it approached the sect’s entrance, a towering gate of black steel, imposing and dignified. Beside it stood a stone monument, engraved with three gilded characters: The disciples disembarked, gazing up at the massive gate. There was no denying it, the Northern Snow Sect’s entrance was far more imposing than their own. Just as the Grand Elder stored the flying vessel, a sharp whistling sound pierced the air. Two more vessels, equally luxurious, raced toward the sect from the distance. Judging by their insignias… They belonged to the Baiyang Sect and the Frostwind Sect! Soon, the vessels landed. Powerful figures stepped out, lining up on either side. The Baiyang Sect disciples immediately locked eyes with the Flowing Clouds Sect group, their expressions filled with undisguised disdain and provocation. The Frostwind Sect, however, appeared far more amiable, their faces adorned with polite smiles. After all, the feud was strictly between the Flowing Clouds and Baiyang Sects. “I heard your Flowing Clouds Sect attacked our Baiyang disciples in the Flowing Sun Secret Realm,” a cold voice rang out. A young man in a cyan robe stepped forward, his gaze sharp as a blade. “This time… I’ll make sure to teach you a proper lesson.” His threat was anything but subtle. Then, his eyes landed squarely on Gu Yang. “Especially you, Gu Yang.” Gu Yang blinked, caught off guard. Beside him, Li Yunfeng chuckled. “Junior Brother Gu, your reputation spreads far and wide. Even Yun Hai, Baiyang Sect’s top true disciple, knows you.” “Top true disciple? Yun Hai?” He didn’t recall ever meeting this Yun Hai. So how did the man know him? Wait, Yun Hai… Yun Shan? But even if they were, Yun Hai couldn’t possibly know Gu Yang had killed Yun Shan. After all, no witnesses had survived that day. Of course, Yun Hai remained unaware of this. But after the Flowing Sun Secret Realm incident, Gu Yang’s terrifying talent had shocked the Baiyang Sect elders. Upon returning, they had immediately reported his potential to their sect. The Baiyang Sect had anticipated that, with his talent, Gu Yang would inevitably become a true disciple and participate in this competition. Thus, they had memorized his face. If they encountered him in the tournament… They would crush him without mercy. Avenge the humiliation of the Flowing Sun Secret Realm! Naturally, Gu Yang knew none of this. But seeing the malice in Yun Hai’s eyes, he simply smirked. Just as tensions between the two sects reached a boiling point, The gates swung open. The Northern Snow Sect’s Grand Elder emerged, his voice warm but authoritative. “Welcome, honored guests. My apologies for the delay. Please, come in.” With his intervention, the two rival sects reluctantly backed down, entering the sect grounds under the Northern Snow Sect’s watchful gaze. “Accommodations have been prepared for you,” the Grand Elder continued. “Rest well, the competition begins tomorrow.” With a wave, he instructed his disciples to guide the three sects to their respective lodgings. Notably, the Baiyang and Flowing Clouds Sects were placed as far apart as possible. No need for unnecessary conflicts. The other two sects were well aware of the feud but chose to stay neutral, this was a private grudge, after all. Soon, all three sects settled in. The Northern Snow Sect had arranged spacious courtyards for each group, ensuring both disciples and elders could stay together for easier communication. The Flowing Clouds Sect was assigned the North Gate Courtyard. Once everyone had unpacked, the Grand Elder gathered the true disciples for a final briefing. “The Baiyang Sect came prepared,” he warned. “They pushed for richer rewards this year, they must have something up their sleeves.” He turned first to Liu Tianxiang, Gu Yun, and Li Xiao, the sect’s top three true disciples. “The top ten will undoubtedly include you. Stay vigilant.” The three nodded solemnly. Next, the Grand Elder addressed the others. “The top three of each sect are in a league of their own. If you face them, especially Baiyang’s, surrender immediately.” “As for the rest, don’t underestimate them. Most are at the 7th level of the True Essence Realm, with mastery over Earth-grade techniques.” “Remember, this tournament is about gaining experience, not winning. Come away with insights, and that’s enough.” The disciples nodded in agreement. They had come with precisely this mindset. Why suffer a brutal beating for no gain? Finally, the Grand Elder’s gaze settled on Gu Yang. A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes. “You’ve reached the 3rd level of the True Essence Realm already?” No wonder the Sect Master held him in such high regard! But his expression quickly returned to normal. “Gu Yang, your talent is unparalleled,” he said carefully. “But your cultivation is still low. Even with a month in the Martial Pavilion, your techniques can’t be deeply mastered yet.” “Don’t push yourself. If the gap is too wide, surrender.” “There’s no shame in it.” “Especially against Baiyang Sect disciples. They won’t hesitate to kill you if given the chance.” Gu Yang listened in silence. But he saw no point in arguing. When the tournament began… His fists would do the talking. “That’s all. Rest well, tomorrow, show them your strength!” With that, the disciples dispersed, retreating to their rooms to prepare.