Episode 64 – The First Battle Line
Recap
At the Southern Assembly Hall, long-standing rivalries between sects nearly overshadowed the growing demonic threat. Faizi Tian presented undeniable proof of the Demon Seed network, forcing the elders to confront the truth. Before a decision could be reached, the ancient warning bell rang and a bloodied scout delivered grim news — demonic forces had crossed the southern border and towns were already falling. With no time left for doubt or politics, Faizi Tian issued a clear ultimatum: unite and fight, or be destroyed one by one. The first true battle of the coming war was about to begin.
Episode 64 – The First Battle Line
The Assembly Hall erupted into controlled chaos.
Orders were shouted, talismans activated, and communication jades lit up as elders issued rapid commands to their sects. Even those who had doubted Faizi Tian moments earlier now wore grim expressions. The bell's echo still lingered in the air, a reminder that hesitation would cost lives.
The crimson-robed elder stood and raised his hand.
"All southern sects will form a temporary alliance," he declared. "Defense lines will be established immediately. The border towns must be evacuated where possible."
Some cultivators clenched their fists in reluctance, but none objected. The enemy had already made the first move.
Faizi Tian stepped forward.
"The demons won't strike randomly," he said. "They'll test us. Weak points. Supply routes. Fear."
Several elders turned to him, listening now with full attention.
"They'll aim to break morale before breaking walls," Faizi continued. "If we scatter, we lose. If we hold a line, they bleed."
A brief silence followed.
"Where would you place the first line?" an elder asked.
Faizi Tian pointed southward.
"The Blackstone Pass."
Murmurs spread instantly.
Blackstone Pass was narrow, brutal terrain — a natural choke point between mountains. If it fell, the heartlands would be exposed. If it held, the demon advance would stall.
"It's dangerous," someone muttered.
"That's why it works," Faizi replied calmly. "Demons rely on overwhelming force. Take that away, and their numbers become a weakness."
The decision was made.
Within hours, cultivators poured out of the plateau, streaking across the sky on flying swords and spirit beasts. War banners were raised for the first time in generations. Old grudges were set aside, at least for now.
By nightfall, Faizi Tian stood atop the jagged cliffs of Blackstone Pass.
Below him, torches burned in long lines as cultivators dug trenches, raised barriers, and inscribed defensive formations into the rock. The air buzzed with nervous energy and restrained fear. Many of these fighters had never faced true demons before.
Faizi Tian closed his eyes, extending his senses.
Far beyond the pass, something stirred.
A low, distant roar rolled across the land, carrying hunger and bloodlust. The ground trembled faintly, rhythmic, like the heartbeat of an approaching storm.
"They're coming," someone whispered.
Faizi Tian opened his eyes.
On the horizon, shadows gathered — countless dark figures moving as one. Red eyes flickered in the distance, multiplying with every breath. The demonic vanguard had arrived.
Faizi Tian drew his sword.
Golden light flowed steadily, not blazing, not restrained — perfectly controlled. He stepped to the very edge of the cliff, standing alone at the front of the line.
Behind him stood hundreds of cultivators.
In front of him stood an army of darkness.
"This is the line," Faizi Tian said quietly. "They do not cross it."
The first demon howls shattered the night.
The war for the southern territories had begun.
To be continued in Episode 65 – When the Sky Turns Red