Chapter Twenty-Two: The Mysterious Figure

A gentle hum of a sword rang out, light golden sword energy swept forth with a surge of ferocious killing intent.

Xu Zhe’s brows furrowed slightly, but he did not panic. The power behind this sword energy was unexpectedly strong—before the blade even fell, its aura reached him, making the hairs on his arms stand on end. Yet, alas, it was too slow.

An ambush must not only be unexpected, but must strike with the force of thunder. Hou Shanyue’s sword form was ordinary and his movements sluggish; compared to the seasoned warriors of the Celestial Domain Immortal Emperor’s clans, he fell far short. Possessing such powerful sword energy was a waste.

With a crash, the sword energy struck down, unleashing uncontrolled fury that tore through the room. Xu Zhe, however, stepped back lightly, twisting his body with subtle precision. The blade nearly grazed his nose as it missed, smashing heavily into the floor and sending splinters and sawdust flying.

“You bastard,” Hou Shanyue snarled, his face contorted in anger. He had never imagined his sudden, all-out sneak attack would be so easily evaded by Xu Zhe.

“Late Foundation Establishment, with such destructive force, you’re not bad—comparable to some prodigies I’ve seen, but unfortunately…” Xu Zhe spoke calmly.

Yet before he finished, Hou Shanyue conjured another sword of energy and rushed forward. Xu Zhe shook his head; spiritual energy churned within his dantian, surging through his meridians and enveloping him in righteous aura.

He stepped forward, glaring fiercely. The floor cracked beneath his feet as he lunged, his body curling low, deftly avoiding the incoming strike. The two switched positions; Hou Shanyue swept his sword behind him in a defensive move.

“You’re too slow—nothing but flaws,” Xu Zhe said, already turning to throw a punch.

His entire spiritual energy was mobilized, his consciousness focused to the utmost. Spirit and energy united, fist and aura as one—this was the attack technique of the Celestial Domain’s Barbarian Battle King: Shattering Falsehood.

True self in mind, dispelling illusion for pure reality—this is divinity.

With a thunderous impact, his punch echoed like a sonic boom.

Hou Shanyue’s chest caved in instantly, forcing him back several steps until he slammed into the wall, embedding himself halfway.

“How…is this possible!”

Hou Shanyue coughed blood on the spot, his face shocked and incredulous. How could a mere Qi Practitioner harm him?

“You don’t seem as powerful as I imagined. The strength you displa