The golden cube radiated brilliant light, and Li Ping's voice echoed in the absolutely dark small world for a long time.
As the instinctive fear dissipated, Su Yuqing's heart was filled with an irresistible desire for the sealed object within the golden cube.
Even the fetus in her abdomen felt the same way.
"With your cultivation method taught by me, slowly refining and absorbing it, you might equal several hundred years of arduous cultivation."
With Li Ping's voice resounding again, a mysterious and wonderful technique appeared in Su Yuqing's mind.
It seemed like mysticism, perhaps a formation, or maybe a combination of both. Profound and intricate, even with Su Yuqing's comprehension, understanding it was somewhat difficult.
"This realm holds significant importance for me and the entire Grand Dawn. Once you devour and refine the consciousness of the heavenly dao of this world, you can replace it, possessing supreme authority in this small world. With you looking after it, I can rest assured."
Li Ping explained, and Su Yuqing suddenly realized.
Although it was a daunting task, Su Yuqing was inherently mild-mannered and had few worldly desires. Moreover, practicing the heavenly dao in this realm was probably the fastest way for her, with great benefits for her daughter as well.
"I will obey your command, Master," Su Yuqing took a deep breath.
"Master, I don't want to stay here! It's too dark!" Dao disciple Luli shook her head frantically.
Li Ping obviously wouldn't indulge her. He tapped Luli's head, saying in a deep voice, "Light and darkness are two sides of the same coin. Without darkness, the existence of light loses its meaning, and vice versa. As Luli Zhiguo, practicing is easy for you. However, it is also your fatal flaw..."
Luli seemed to understand, staring with wide eyes, listening intently. Intuition told her that her somewhat frightening Master was not lying.
"Your progress is fast, but compared to human cultivators, your upper limit is naturally restricted. To break through the limits, you need to comprehend both the principle of 'Luli' and the principle of 'Wisdom.' From here, you can gain something in both aspects."
"As the youngest among my disciples, you won't be short of gifts."
Another light source appeared in Li Ping's hand. It was not a seal like the previous golden cube but a pure aggregation of energy.
Luli subconsciously licked her lips. The moment she saw the light cluster, her stomach growled.
She reached out to grab it, but the light cluster was elusive, not entering her palm. Luli, frustrated, waved her hands continuously, but it was ultimately futile.
Yearning for the exquisite taste but unable to indulge, Luli almost cried on the spot.
"Master..." Luli looked up at Li Ping with pleading eyes.
Li Ping smiled, "This source essence has two additional restrictions imposed by me. Only when you make any breakthroughs in either wisdom or the principle of 'Luli' will the restrictions be lifted."
"When you break through the limits, this energy will also help you stabilize the new form after your transformation."
Dao disciple Luli stared at the source essence light cluster, nodding vigorously.
"The heavenly dao is ruthless, treating all things as mere fodder. While controlling this realm, you should abide by the principle of nature. Being in a superior position, you should refrain from personally intervening in various matters among mundane lives unless absolutely necessary."
Li Ping's voice continued without ceasing, and his figure suddenly shattered, disappearing in this realm.
Su Yuqing recalled Master's usual behavior in front of the Grand Dawn citizens, pondering.
"Yozu people?" Su Yuqing checked the various information sent by her Master in her mind.
Dao disciple Luli kept observing her surroundings, eager to find the path to break through the limits as mentioned by Master.
...
In the Xuanhuang Realm.
Wang Xuanba had returned to the underground of Yueyang Prefecture.
Accompanying him was Lin Ling.
Lin Ling played with the wheel that Li Ping had given, showing a somewhat indifferent attitude towards the task of subduing the ancient tree veins on this trip.
"Sister, can we start now?" Wang Xuanba felt a bit intimidated by his taciturn junior sister and asked cautiously.
"Not in a hurry, let's wait a bit longer," Lin Ling shook her head.
"Wait? Wait for what?" Wang Xuanba was a bit puzzled.
In his perception, many of the sixteen hidden swarms had already awakened from their seal, becoming restless.
"Master said, give it a chance. If it remains stubborn, we can act later," Lin Ling explained patiently.
"Then I'll follow Sister's lead," Wang Xuanba said with a grin.
The two stood quietly in the veins for a little more than half a day. Suddenly, Wang Xuanba felt that the massive consciousness belonging to the ancient tree veins swept around him.
However, unlike before, this time the ancient tree veins didn't directly ignore them but lingered for a long time.
Wang Xuanba saw Lin Ling putting away the wheel in her hand, and her expression became serious.
It seemed like she was conversing with someone.
Wang Xuanba didn't disturb their conversation. In fact, his inner strings were already taut. As soon as Lin Ling conveyed a thought, he would cooperate to activate all the worm swarms.
Initially, Lin Ling seemed to be casually chatting with the ancient tree veins. There were even occasional smiles on her face.
However, without warning, Lin Ling's expression suddenly changed.
With a cold sneer, she said, "I thought of you as a fellow clansman, so I opened my heart to communicate with you. Why did you advocate rebellion after all?"
"My master's methods are not something a small rotting ancient tree like you can comprehend!"
Wang Xuanba received Lin Ling's transmission and also sneered. Then, he awakened the dormant swarms in the area beneath Yueyang Prefecture.
Like a flood released after breaking a dam, the shadowy black swarm surged unstoppably, dyeing the visible yellow veins black. A sharp explosion faintly echoed from the underground, submerged within the torrent of the swarm.
"How does it feel to lose a tentacle?" Lin Ling's eyes showed a murderous intent.
"I can sever a thousand tentacles if I want." Wang Xuanba understood, coordinating to awaken the other fifteen groups of swarms but still controlling them as a deterrent.
The entire Xuanhuang land trembled imperceptibly. It was the overall loss of control of the veins due to the ancient tree's fear.
A shadowy old man's figure appeared in front of Wang Xuanba and Lin Ling.
He looked at Lin Ling, showing fear in his eyes. There was also a hint of anger in his tone as he questioned, "I was sincerely well-intentioned, why did you harm me?!"
Wang Xuanba observed the somewhat wretched little old man in front of him, finding it hard to connect him with the legendary ancient tree controlling the veins of the Xuanhuang Realm.
Ignoring the accusation of the ancient tree, Lin Ling just sneered, "Well-intentioned? I followed my master for only a few decades, not only transforming from a ignorant weak consciousness into what I am now but also gaining considerable cultivation."
"How long have you been cultivating? I could kill you with just a thought!" Lin Ling locked her cold gaze onto the ancient tree veins, and the wheel suddenly appeared and kept spinning behind her.
The swarms in the veins seemed to sense something and responded with a riot. Even without collectively breaking free from the seal, the fifteen shadows suddenly grew larger.
"Let's talk it out, let's talk it out." The hunchbacked old man was flustered.
Lin Ling ignored him and continued to press, "Your mother tree is not my mother tree. Your so-called turning to the light, in my eyes, is ruining my path!"
"Obstructionists must be killed without mercy!" Lin Ling shouted.
Wang Xuanba grinned, coordinating to release the restraints of one swarm. The ancient tree's expression changed abruptly. Before he could speak, one of its legs seemed to be suddenly broken, and the whole body lost balance, stumbling to the ground.
"Misunderstanding! It's just a misunderstanding! The mother tree is the source of all life in the world, not only for us spirit woods but also for humans..."
Before the ancient tree could finish speaking, it was interrupted by the explosion of another group of swarms. This time, it was another leg. The hunchbacked old man raised his head in embarrassment, his anxiety evident.
"The source of all life in the world? Where is it now?" Lin Ling showed disdain.
"Even if what you say is true, so what?"
Lin Ling stepped forward, walking in front of the ancient tree veins.
"Compared to my master..."
"Just a local chicken and dog!"
Lin Ling viciously stomped on the ancient tree veins.
The shadowy old man screamed. Although some parts of its body were eroded by the worms, even with its remaining strength, it couldn't resist at all. However, the ancient tree veins didn't struggle.
Because the old man knew that the young clansman in front of him was not wrong.
"What are these things exactly..." The surface of the ancient tree veins seemed to have completely surrendered, but in reality, it was trying to dissolve this strange black energy in secret.
However, this power was unlike anything it had encountered in the Xuanhuang Realm before, rendering it helpless.
"A few disciples have such means. Who exactly is their master? Could it be some mighty figure from ancient times? We have no grievances, so why would they suddenly target me? Is it to counter..."
The ancient tree veins were full of suspicion and countless thoughts flashed through its mind.
However, Lin Ling did not give the ancient tree veins much time for contemplation.
"Those who recognize the situation are the true heroes. Considering that you and I are both spirit woods, I'll give you a chance. Surrender to our Holy Dynasty Great Awakening!"
"Otherwise, I don't mind reluctantly taking your place as the ancient tree veins!" Lin Ling said coldly, radiating a chilling aura.
As she spoke, green roots extended from her feet, resembling countless tentacles, surging into the black swarm.
Pure green spread from Lin Ling's lower body, quickly turning the black into green.
Lin Ling, who controlled the imitation beast wheel, was now one with the swarm. She was the swarm, and the swarm was her.
Wherever the black swarm flowed, it became a part of her body, a manifestation of her will.
If the bodies previously infected by the Dao One Worm had the potential to be reclaimed by the ancient tree veins, as long as a way was found to exterminate the Dao One Worms and then continuously purify with the power of the veins.
But now, the part occupied by Lin Ling...
The face of the ancient tree veins slowly turned extremely pale.
Because it had completely lost perception of a part of its own body. Moreover, it felt that beside its original body, there was now a malevolent presence.
At any moment, it could devour the remaining part of itself!
This feeling was truly chilling, further confirming that Lin Ling's words were not empty.
There wasn't much time left...
This thought flashed through the ancient tree veins' mind.
But joining the so-called Holy Dynasty Great Awakening meant betraying its father.
If the sinister face of Wood suddenly appeared in front of the ancient tree veins, it couldn't help but shudder.
The originally contemplated intention to surrender suddenly disappeared.
While the ancient tree veins hesitated, it faintly sensed a special thought from Lin Ling.
"Hmm?"
After careful consideration, the ancient tree veins recalled the recent seemingly more insane actions of Wood. In the end, it made a decision.
"Old one..."
Lin Ling glanced slightly, and the ancient tree veins paused, changing its words, "I am willing to submit to the Holy Dynasty."
Wang Xuanba stared suspiciously at the ancient tree. Lin Ling ordered, "Then let's go meet our master."
No room was given for refusal.
Feeling the swarms still vigilant within, the ancient tree veins reluctantly agreed.
Its body faded into substance and appeared somewhat embarrassed.
Docilely followed behind Wang Xuanba and Lin Ling.
There were no twists and turns along the way, and they arrived at the small world of Great Awakening.
Various unfathomable auras from all around made the ancient tree feel extremely uneasy.
Both disciples could easily handle it, not to mention the Grand Awakening Holy Emperor.
In the Holy Emperor's seat, the submission of the ancient tree was needless to say.
Apart from falling into the golden source power web of the Holy Emperor, losing freedom from then on, and becoming a servant of Great Awakening, the ancient tree also confessed everything it knew about Wood.
In the end, it managed to save its own life.
The Holy Dynasty officially gained the method to find Wood's true body through this.
"Holy Emperor, today I leaked my father's aura, and soon He will definitely sense something. Therefore, the key to success lies in the word 'speed.' Since I have chosen to surrender, I voluntarily offer strategies to Li Ping," the ancient tree actively advised.
"You are right. Therefore, I am already on my way there."
Li Ping's voice came from above, but what surprised the ancient tree even more was that the figure of the faceless Holy Emperor was slowly fading and disappearing.
It couldn't even perceive when the other party left.
"The Holy Emperor's strength is truly unfathomable. Even surpassing the father..."
"Hmph, the old lunatic is in for a treat now."
For some reason, the ancient tree became somewhat expectant.
Meanwhile, outside the Holy Emperor's seat,
Wang Xuanba looked at Lin Ling, wanting to say something but hesitating.
"If you have something to say, just say it. Staring at me like this, I'm afraid I can't help but draw my sword."
Lin Ling's sudden words startled Wang Xuanba.
Scratching his head, Wang Xuanba looked at his junior sister. Without hesitation, he asked, "Just now, at the critical moment of persuading the ancient tree to surrender, did you say something to it?"
Lin Ling revealed an expression of disdain for "such a boring question."
"It's just telling it that if it surrenders, I can form an alliance with it."
"It's indeed convenient to have the identity of the same clan. I didn't expect it to agree on the spot just by casually mentioning it," Lin Ling remarked.
"What?" Hearing Lin Ling's answer, Wang Xuanba's expression changed.
"Alliance with that old thing? Junior sister, are you serious?" The way the ancient tree, now submissive, behaved made Wang Xuanba feel somewhat disdainful.
"It's just a trick to deceive it. An alliance..." Lin Ling's tone was calm, but the deep disdain in her words was evident.
"Now it's part of the Holy Dynasty, is it even qualified?" she added.
"If it dares to mention that in front of me..." Lin Ling coldly snorted.
Wang Xuanba was suddenly stunned. He had always valued promises, and Lin Ling openly breaking her word was somewhat difficult for him to accept.
Seeing this, Lin Ling couldn't help but break the ice, smiling, "Senior brother, it's called deception in war strategy. Deceiving enemies, if one always keeps their word, wouldn't that be a kind of sickness?"
Wang Xuanba had no words to respond.
"Moreover, senior brother, do you remember our Master's instructions before we went to see the ancient tree?" Lin Ling asked.
"Of course. Master said that if the ancient tree remains unresponsive, you can take its place," Wang Xuanba recalled and replied.
"The name 'Earth Vein Ancient Tree' sounds quite domineering. I had some expectations, but after seeing its appearance, all that's left is disappointment," Lin Ling's answer surprised Wang Xuanba.
"Weak, too weak. The most powerful aspect of the Earth Vein Ancient Tree is its fusion with the Xuanhuang Earth Veins, allowing it to harness the power of the Earth Vein currents across Xuanhuang. This is both a characteristic and an advantage, but it also determines the limitations of the Earth Vein tree. Moreover, the Earth Vein Ancient Tree's body is too large. In the eyes of true experts, it is full of flaws," Lin Ling shook her head slightly.
"My dream is to become a figure like Master. If I really become that Earth Vein tree, although my strength will indeed make a leap in the short term, the future will be completely cut off. I'm not that foolish."
"Can only deceive that old thing and continue to hold the position."
Rolling her eyes at Wang Xuanba, Lin Ling said, "Senior brother, what kind of person do you think I am?"
Gradually reminiscing, Wang Xuanba, feeling somewhat embarrassed, apologized on the spot, "I underestimated junior sister."
Looking towards the Earth Vein Ancient Tree in the Holy Emperor's seat, he nodded in agreement, "Antiquities are strong. They merely use the power of the Xuanhuang Taoist laws. If the Xuanhuang Tao is powerful, they naturally rise with it. However, in a situation like today, where the Xuanhuang Tao is trampled underfoot by someone like the Taoist Law Propagator, they can only struggle and hide in dark corners, reminiscing about their past glory."
"I didn't expect senior brother to be such a cultured person. Speaking so eloquently," Lin Ling commented, a mix of genuine praise, subtle revenge, and sarcasm.
"I didn't think so much. I just wanted to become stronger," Wang Xuanba replied.
"Enough said, I'm going to cultivate. Swallowing some of that old thing's body this time indeed brought some gains. If I had known, I should have been a bit more ruthless and swallowed more." Lin Ling's regretful voice echoed in Wang Xuanba's ears.
After a moment, her figure gradually faded, and her aura disappeared.
Wang Xuanba smiled self-mockingly, realizing he had been overly concerned.
...
Xuanhuang Realm, Tianyu Province.
A place where an extraordinary spectacle was located, famous in the Immortal Alliance.
The crack, stretching for hundreds of miles, meandered across the earth like a black scar.
Even from a distance, one could faintly feel the endless chill emanating from the crevice.
The closer to the crack, the more rapidly the temperature dropped.
Even a Foundation Establishment cultivator would struggle to endure the prolonged exposure to such low temperatures.
From the depths of the crack's abyss, bursts of azure light would occasionally spout.
It was the freezing frost.
However, standing by the crack and looking down, one could witness countless fiery lotuses blooming in the icy abyss.
These were not cold flames but indeed scorching flame lotuses.
Cold and heat, completely contradictory, yet intertwined with each other, simultaneously present in this icy abyss.
The faceless Holy Emperor of Daqi, Li Ping, suddenly appeared outside this spectacular ice abyss with flame lotuses.
Like numerous tourists who had come to this place, he stood silently, gazing downward.
"Marvelous and mysterious, nature's creation is truly extraordinary."
After a long time, Li Ping couldn't help but sigh.
In his eyes, the scene here was different from what ordinary cultivators would see.
The blue ice abyss actually exuded a deep sense of death.
Pitch-black darkness, suffocating.
And those fiery red flame lotuses were pure white, radiating a vigorous vitality.
Appearing to be a mixture of cold and heat here, it was actually...
"Black abyss, white flowers, death abyss, life flowers."
Li Ping took a step forward, seemingly stepping into thin air, and his figure rapidly descended into the black abyss.
However, his disappearance did not alert any nearby cultivators.
At this moment, from Li Ping's perspective, the surroundings suddenly stretched and distorted.
Although the white flowers of life seemed not far away, Li Ping had been falling for a long time without getting any closer.
The entire black abyss space expanded and extended infinitely with Li Ping's descent.
Consequently, there was a gradually synchronous increase in the rich death qi.
Feeling the death qi around him attempting to invade him, Li Ping coldly chuckled in his heart but didn't pay too much attention.
For an ordinary cultivator, even one in the Harmony Realm, exposure to these black death qi would significantly reduce their lifespan.
However, Li Ping is the incarnation of the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao, a part of the Xuanhuang Laws. Even if it is an out-of-control part, how could it harm him?
Since forcefully devouring the evil thoughts of Xuanhuang, Li Ping indeed felt that the connection with the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao seemed to have become somewhat distant.
However, Li Ping was confident that this was just an instinctive reaction of the Heavenly Dao after devouring the evil thoughts.
He believed that after some time passed, the bond between him and the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao would eventually return to normal.
Even though they were currently in a period of weakened relationship, it was not something the death qi in this place could shake.
Sure enough, even without taking any protective measures, the Saint Emperor Li Ping, surrounded by layers of black death qi, remained untouched as if impervious to any harm.
There was simply no breakthrough point.
Li Ping's gaze pierced through the dense death qi, staring directly at the blossoming flowers of life below.
"At the boundary of life and death, the origin of all spirits."
"The Xuanhuang Realm has now become like this, but it's just hidden in this secret place, barely surviving..."
"What use do you have!"
A killing intent suddenly emanated from Li Ping, forcing the death qi around him to retreat.
"Step aside!"
Li Ping shouted, and layers of death qi actually parted, creating a passage for him.
The space no longer extended, and Li Ping's figure soared, instantly passing through.
Rich vitality rushed toward him, and the white flowers of life were within arm's reach.
The black clouds of death hovered above his head, refusing to disperse for a long time.
Facing this abundant vitality, Li Ping's heart suddenly felt a bit heavy.
Compared to pure death qi, a large amount of useless vitality seemed more like a deadly poison.
Because, fundamentally, vitality is a beneficial state.
As the incarnation of the Heavenly Dao, Li Ping naturally could enjoy the favor of heaven and earth.
It's unclear how many years it has been since a cultivator not rejected by heaven and earth has come to this place.
The vitality accumulated beside the black abyss and white flowers, at this moment, seemed to have finally found a release, crazily surging towards Li Ping.
Even if he intentionally blocked it, it couldn't resist the excessive vitality here.
Inevitably, a small amount of vitality flowed into Li Ping's body.
While vitality indeed brought certain benefits, Li Ping was not merely a Longevity Realm cultivator relying on his own cultivation.
With the essence of source power, the aura of the Holy Dynasty, and the blessing of the Heavenly Dao...
Under the synthesis of various forces, he had achieved the strength comparable to the Longevity Realm.
Now, Li Ping's state had reached a balance since his promotion.
At this moment, this equilibrium was gradually disrupted as boundless vitality continuously surged in.
Li Ping's hair seemed to come alive, growing wildly.
In just an instant, it had already spread to his ankles.
His body was also expanding synchronously.
One zhang, two zhang...
With the sound of bones creaking, in just a few breaths, Li Ping transformed into a three-zhang giant.
It appeared majestic, but for the current Li Ping, it was not a good thing.
With a slight frown, he attempted to transform and absorb the surging vitality.
However, the shrinking speed was far slower than the rate of growth.
While maintaining the balance of various forces within his body, Li Ping observed his surroundings, searching for a way to enter the hiding place of Ruomu.
Since devouring the evil thoughts of Xuanhuang, there were very few things within the Xuanhuang Realm that could escape his scrutiny.
Even though the memories of the evil thoughts had become somewhat blurry, as long as he saw them with his own eyes, he could quickly reconnect with those memories.
In a flicker, the Holy Emperor Li Ping disappeared at the bottom of the black abyss.
The vitality that had lost its target suddenly became somewhat lost. The white flowers swayed slightly, reluctantly retracting the vitality.
In a place filled with a mysterious atmosphere, like a world of faded yellow leaves, Li Ping's nearly five-zhang tall body suddenly appeared.
He released an endless vigor from within, spreading it to the surroundings.
However, in this peculiar environment, it seemed impossible to spread, like it was being suppressed.
Soon, like falling autumn leaves, it turned into solid yellow entities, drifting down from the sky.
The means to release unwanted vitality allowed Li Ping to gradually expel the culprit causing the imbalance from his body.
His body slowly shrank.
However, due to the changes in the balance within his body during this short period, when Li Ping returned to normal, some details of his body did not revert; instead, they became a part of his physical features.
For example, his height remained at three zhang three chi, and his ink-black hair hung down to his waist.
His figure became more robust, and beneath the golden robe, explosive power was hidden.
Li Ping didn't pay much attention to these changes.
It was just an external appearance; as long as he wished, he could return to his original appearance at any time.
His attention was now focused on this mysterious place.
The scent of decay flowing here even made him uncomfortable.
What he cared more about was the center of this place.
A towering tree, yellow and full of spots, stood silently.
Li Ping, as a three-zhang giant, was like an ant at the foot of this giant tree.
On the withered branches, countless cultivators were hanging, resembling fruits on a tree.
All of them had closed eyes, their faces showing a strange and satisfied expression.
As Li Ping's gaze swept over, other than this withered ancient tree, no other figures were found.
"Is it only the main body here..."
Li Ping knew that Ruomu had another incarnation, often luring cultivators here, abducting them, and turning them into Golden Core fruits to vent its inner resentment.
At this moment, it seemed to be away.
Li Ping wasn't in a hurry and continued to carefully observe the space here.
On the towering trunk, faintly visible were some deep scars, as if it had suffered a fatal injury.
Li Ping squinted, attempting to awaken the connection between this heavenly object and the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao.
However, perhaps due to the influence of the withering yellow, Li Ping's call received no response.
Instead, it triggered the ancient tree's spontaneous defense.
Dots of withering yellow, following the tree's veins, began to erode from the ground under Li Ping's feet.
Li Ping intentionally let go of his defense, absorbing a strand of withering yellow into his body.
Wrapped in golden source essence, preventing its spread, he then carefully observed.
Although the power of withering yellow was mysterious, it couldn't break through the blockade of the source essence.
Li Ping sensed not only the ordinary aging from this withering power but also a sense of decay throughout the entire world.
As if the heavens were about to collapse, the decline was evident, and there was no way to reverse it.
"This is..."
"The world is heading towards ruin."
Countless scenes flashed in his mind—scenes of various states within the Xuanhuang Realm, where numerous calamities occurred due to the decay of the heavens and earth.
However, Li Ping knew that, in reality, these states within the Xuanhuang Realm had not experienced the events that should have occurred.
"Ruomu is the source of vitality for the Xuanhuang Realm, and to some extent, it does reflect the vitality of the Xuanhuang Realm."
"Although Ruomu has taken on this appearance, the Xuanhuang Realm still appears vibrant..."
Li Ping frowned slightly.
Soon, he understood the answer.
"If there is no external infusion of vitality, the Xuanhuang Realm will inevitably decay synchronously with Ruomu."
"The source of this vitality comes from..."
"The devoured remnants of other fragmented immortal cultivation worlds."
"Although they are dismembered, during the integration process, they also draw the remaining vitality from those remnants."
"In this way, Xuanhuang has regained new life..."
Li Ping thoughtfully remarked.
"This operation is indeed exquisite."
As the incarnation of the Heavenly Dao, nominally the victim, after realizing what had happened over these thousands of years, Li Ping couldn't help but express sincere admiration.
"Life and death are unpredictable. Death and life are unpredictable."
"I was originally an existence that controlled life and death, but now I've ended up in this situation."
"The world is about to abandon me. How can I not hate..."
Just as Li Ping was contemplating, a strange voice suddenly sounded from behind him, disappearing without a trace.
Li Ping knew that the owner of the voice was Ruomu.
"The world has Ruomu, day and night bringing life and longevity."
"Life and death have no reincarnation, only eternal life remains..."
Li Ping was not startled by Ruomu's sudden appearance; instead, he calmly recited these verses. At the same time, he turned around, facing the oldest tree between heaven and earth in the Xuanhuang Realm.
Ruomu examined the Faceless Saint Emperor, a hint of confusion flashing in its ancient eyes.
However, what Li Ping said next made the wrinkles on Ruomu's face deep.
"Your entire existence is a gift from heaven and earth. If it weren't for the favor of the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao, the so-called [Endless Huan Heng Yuan] would be nothing more than an ordinary tree."
"When the Heavenly Dao faced danger, you did not rise to resist, choosing instead to live passively..."
"It was you who betrayed the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao first, not the heavens and earth abandoning you." Li Ping did not show any sympathy, mocking without hesitation.
The expression on Old Ruomu's face froze, appearing motionless.
Meanwhile, not far away, the main body of the ancient tree was slightly swaying. The countless cultivator fruits hanging on it also swayed continuously.
"Resist? The Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao has been suppressed. What can I do? It's you who, as a cultivator, devoured the Heavenly Dao for cultivation. Do you not find these words ridiculous?" Ruomu stared at Li Ping for a long time, unable to discern the other party's details.
However, cultivators under the heavens were generally similar.
In addition to the almost imperceptible aura on Li Ping, which originally belonged to the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao, Ruomu made a judgment and retorted.
But despite their verbal mockery, there was no direct confrontation.
It wasn't that Ruomu suddenly changed its nature or improved its temper but...
Simply put, it couldn't win.
Although it didn't manifest, Ruomu's spiritual sense was frantically warning. As the oldest spiritual being between heaven and earth, Ruomu's intuition had reached an extraordinary level, almost able to glimpse future possible scenarios.
Ruomu was absolutely certain that if it fought against this uninvited guest, it would undoubtedly be the one to fall.
Moreover, the overwhelming pressure emanating from the opponent, stronger than any Nascent Soul cultivator Ruomu had seen before, only reinforced Ruomu's judgment.
Indeed, Ruomu was now in a state of disrepair and ruin, but it was still alive.
Of course, it wouldn't seek its own demise.
"Returning what belongs to me, what's wrong with that?" Li Ping no longer suppressed the aura of the swallowed Xuanhuang evil thoughts.
"What is this?!" Ruomu's mind shook violently.
It could naturally distinguish the fragmented laws absorbed by the cultivator from the complete Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao.
But how could this be possible?
"Xuanhuang Great Heavenly Sovereign?" This thought suddenly flashed in Ruomu's mind but was quickly dismissed.
Even though it had lost most of its power, the deep-seated connection with the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao still remained. If there were a new Great Heavenly Sovereign, it would be impossible for Ruomu not to sense it.
"Taking back what belongs to me, is it the Heavenly Dao itself?" Ruomu found it hard to believe this speculation but couldn't help thinking that it was the most plausible explanation given the current situation.
Although it couldn't be confirmed yet, it didn't prevent Ruomu's attitude from suddenly changing.
"Why have you come here?" Ruomu asked.
Li Ping, on the other hand, naturally revealed his intention to reclaim Ruomu's power.
Before Ruomu could react, Li Ping turned the conversation, "In the face of the imminent crisis of the Heavenly Dao, the ancient relics of the Xuanhuang Realm turned a blind eye and did nothing. Therefore, the innate response of the Heavenly Dao is to retrieve your powers."
"Although there is external force assisting the revival of the Heavenly Dao, the process of reclamation has not been halted. All actions are predestined. There is no need for you to harbor resentment."
"I am here to bring about a complete end."
Li Ping's gaze turned again towards the towering, decaying ancient tree.
And the countless Nascent Soul cultivators languishing above.
"However, now it seems that you haven't done nothing. Even if it's just a drop in the ocean, you've indeed made some effort."
A majestic golden force suddenly burst forth from Li Ping.
A golden giant palm instantly appeared near Ruomu's main body, gently plucking one of the cultivator fruits from the treetop.
With a gentle pinch, the cultivator's body instantly turned to ashes, leaving only an incomplete Nascent Soul suspended in mid-air.
Li Ping's act of picking his own fruit did not disturb Ruomu's emotions.
However, a hint of relief flashed instinctively in Ruomu's eyes.
"Do you think the cultivators in the Xuanhuang Realm today are in the wrong?"
The space of resentment quieted for a moment, then Li Ping suddenly asked.
"More than just wrong? I wish to turn all these ungrateful individuals into fruits, subjecting them to eternal torment." Ruomu finally responded through gritted teeth.
"Although cultivators in the world have their flaws, their conflicts with the heavens and the earth are the root cause." Li Ping spoke calmly.
"Why do cultivators devour the heavens and consume the earth? It's because they can only follow this path. The root of everything comes from the Transmitter Celestial Venerable."
Li Ping's voice echoed continuously, and Ruomu fell silent.
This truth was clear to everyone.
But what could be done about it?
The Transmitter Celestial Venerable, who went against the principles of heaven and earth, was too powerful. Even the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao itself could not resist. Not to mention the living beings in the Xuanhuang Realm.
"I intend to set things right, kill the Transmitter, and return the Dao to the heavens."
"Are you willing to help me?"
Li Ping's indifferent voice reached Ruomu's ears.
If someone else said this to Ruomu, it would laugh, turn them into a fruit, and mock them day and night.
However, now such grandiose words were uttered by a possible incarnation of the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao...
This momentarily left Ruomu unsure of how to respond.
Ruomu knew that if it chose to refuse, a massive battle was inevitable between the two. Not to mention who would be stronger, just considering that this was where its main body resided, a retaliatory battle here would undoubtedly result in severe injuries and bring it closer to complete ruin.
But to submit with just a few words left Ruomu feeling extremely unwilling.
"Your decline is not only due to your injuries but also because the flow of the Heavenly Dao has been severed."
"If you choose to ally with me..."
Li Ping took a step forward, and his figure shattered with a resounding impact. Enveloped in the golden light, his three-zhang-three tall body instantly expanded tens of thousands of times, almost reaching the size of Ruomu's main body.
One hand pressed onto Ruomu's trunk.
"Boom!"
In Ruomu's space, the dim and silent sky suddenly formed a vortex.
The reflection of the Xuanhuang Realm appeared in the vortex.
A greenish aura was drawn from the vortex, slowly drifting towards the aging Ruomu.
"This..."
Ruomu, excited, straightened its somewhat hunched back, eyes full of joy and disbelief.
It felt like, after thousands of years, the favor of the Heavenly Dao, which had slowly slipped away, had returned to him for the first time!
Li Ping was right; his entire existence was bestowed by the Xuanhuang Heavenly Favor.
Without the nourishment of the Heavenly Dao, he was like a tree without roots, water without a source, slowly withering away into chronic death.
But at this moment, against all odds, the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao once again infused a trace of power.
Even though it was not the familiar life-and-death power, it still excited him immensely, bringing a resurgence of vitality.
The withered main body of Ruomu trembled significantly from top to bottom.
Numerous cultivator fruits fell from above, shattered into pieces, leaving only broken Nascent Souls emitting different colored lights quietly lying on the ground.
A hint of green appeared on Ruomu's body.
Several strands of tender green shoots sprouted from the branches, and the entire ancient tree's aura underwent a significant change.
Just as Ruomu was ecstatic, reveling in the long-lost vitality...
The golden giant formed by Li Ping suddenly withdrew the hand placed on the tree trunk.
The vortex above Ruomu disappeared abruptly.
The descending greenery also turned into scattered green lights, drifting away with the wind, not landing on Ruomu.
"No!"
In Ruomu's wailing, the newly born buds instantly withered and decayed.
From the top of the tree, they slowly floated down.
"I want more!"
"Give it to me quickly!"
The elder Ruomu, in his transformed state, erupted with overwhelming resentment.
Staring fiercely at Li Ping.
However, upon seeing the empty face of the other, and feeling the extremely chilling aura, Ruomu suddenly calmed down.
The fierce expression froze on its face, and it dared not make any further moves.
Li Ping also just stared silently at the opponent.
The scene was quiet and somewhat eerie for a while.
It wasn't until the withered yellow leaf fell exactly onto Li Ping and was gently taken out by him.
The silence was broken by Li Ping as he continued the words he hadn't finished before: "Just like what you saw and experienced."
"If you return to the right path, standing by my side again, you may not be unable to return to the pinnacle of ancient times."
Ruomu's expression was evidently shaken.
After struggling on the verge of death and enduring torment for thousands of years, now that he had finally tasted the flavor of youth for a moment, how could he easily give it up?
"I know that you suffered severe injuries during ancient times, with the core power taken away by cultivators."
"But the present Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao is vastly different from what it used to be."
"If you can recover your complete authority, you will undoubtedly be stronger than before."
Li Ping continued, "I'll give you a month to consider. At that time, I will come again."
Li Ping didn't excessively pressure Ruomu, making an instant decision.
Leaving only these words, he disappeared without a trace.
This space was dominated by Ruomu, but even Ruomu didn't perceive how the other party had left.
With no outsiders present, this place returned to the silence it had maintained for thousands of years.
Ruomu squinted his eyes, continuously savoring the taste of vitality he had just experienced.
Comparing it to the current situation, a sense of melancholy and loss involuntarily surged in his heart.
...
In the Holy Dynasty.
In the Holy Emperor's seat.
Upon his return, Li Ping immediately issued a holy decree.
He once again allocated some You Clan members, shifting their focus to the functions of the Dim Sea of Shadows to appease the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao.
"The current state, forcibly having the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao infuse power into Ruomu, has some side effects."
"Even if it's just a trace..."
"In addition to the gap caused by the previous devouring of Xuanhuang malevolence, it is also somewhat related to Ruomu's identity."
"After all, in the eyes of the Heavenly Dao, these ancient Xuanhuang beings are no different from traitors."
Li Ping pondered slowly.
This operation could not be considered completely in vain.
Ruomu, who relished in devouring essences, would undoubtedly not refuse Li Ping's request.
He just needed some time to make a decision.
As for why Li Ping didn't choose to act forcefully, like swallowing Xuanhuang malevolence directly...
Li Ping had his own concerns.
"Different from the Xuanhuang malevolence that was separated and sealed for a long time, although Ruomu is in a dilapidated state, it has existed since the beginning of Xuanhuang."
"Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao shaped it, making it a fixed part of the Xuanhuang realm. If it were naturally withdrawn by the Heavenly Dao, decaying and perishing, it might avoid turmoil."
"But if I rashly devour it, firstly, it would alert other longevity powerhouses in this realm."
"Secondly, the abnormalities in the Xuanhuang realm might make the Transmitter Heavenly Sovereign, who is far away in the starry seas, notice."
Li Ping didn't care much about the Five Old Ones from the Celestial Will Council.
But he had to consider the existence of the Transmitter and the Celestial Physician.
"Now, it's not yet the time for a real confrontation with them."
"Just wait a bit longer."
Li Ping's patience was abundant.
He believed that in less than a month, Ruomu would contact him on his own.
Before that, he needed to try to change some of the relations with the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao.
Li Ping's eyes revealed a dislike for some entities that the Xuanhuang Heavenly Dao hated.
...
Nine Mountain Province.
The border between the Wan Xian Alliance and the Celestial Will Council.
Sun Er Lang easily passed through the defense at the boundary of the Wan Xian Alliance, entering the territory of the Celestial Will Council.
"The treasures passed down by Master are indeed mysterious; the formations of the Wan Xian Alliance can be broken almost instantly."
Sun Er Lang carefully observed the surroundings.
"It seems not much different from the Wan Xian Alliance."
"But Master said there's a power of the Transcendent against the principles covering the entire area, so it's better to keep a low profile."
A simplified map appeared in his mind. Sun Er Lang recognized some directions, concealed his figure, and swiftly moved.
Following the instructions of the Faceless Saint Emperor, he headed straight for the True Nation.
"I wonder how I can meet this 'True Heavenly Sovereign'?"
While flying, Sun Er Lang pondered.
With the array and techniques transmitted by Li Ping, his aura remained concealed, and no one could detect him along the way.
Just when he was very close to the True Nation, nearby anomalies caught Sun Er Lang's attention, causing him to involuntarily slow down.
A somewhat surreal gigantic flying ship abruptly appeared in the sky.
More than ten armored cultivators flew out from the ship.
They wielded peculiar artifacts and were shouting loudly.
"It's here, hurry! We can't let other teams get ahead!"
They flew over a jungle on the ground, and the artifacts in their hands emitted beams of different colors.
Locking onto a snow-white giant ape, it suddenly appeared in the jungle, roaring thunderously.
Sun Er Lang's pupils contracted.
Because the demonic beast hid so cleverly that he couldn't sense any of its aura before.
Moreover, even now, while the giant ape was fiercely battling with the group of cultivators, Sun Er Lang still couldn't detect any life force from the demonic beast.
Sun Er Lang concealed himself, observing the Five Elders' cultivators battling the giant ape. Gradually, a sense of solemnity arose in his heart.
"So powerful..."
This was his evaluation of the cultivators before him.
With no spiritual energy fluctuations and the destructive range of their techniques limited within a certain space, Sun Er Lang couldn't perceive their specific cultivation levels.
However, based on their cooperation in combat, fearlessness in the face of various crises, and other martial qualities, the skill level of this group of cultivators was unparalleled in his experience.
Even accounting for his encounters in the simulated world of the Dao Stone, these cultivators remained exceptionally top-notch.
What astonished Sun Er Lang even more was their attack and healing methods.
Aside from various magical tools, these cultivators occasionally used some rather unique items such as books, wine cups, and even necklaces. These items not only enhanced themselves but also inflicted various negative effects on the giant ape.
Moreover, their healing speed was frightening.
For a newly advanced cultivator dwelling in a cave realm, it would take at least a few breaths of time to resurrect after their body was destroyed within the cave realm.
However, this group of people only needed a flash of white light, instantly recovering from severe injuries. Moments after being hit by the giant ape's attack and on the verge of death, they would rejuvenate under the illumination of the white light.
The giant ape, no matter how tough its hide, couldn't withstand such consumption.
Strangely, this demonic beast, with a single-minded stubbornness, showed no intention of fleeing.
It continued to battle until the last moment of its life, crashing to the ground with a resounding thud.
At the moment of the giant ape's death, it transformed into dazzling golden light, pouring into the bodies of the cultivators who killed it.
The group burst into cheers.
"The leader spawned this time is really damn tough. Fortunately, we prepared enough supplies; otherwise, we would have been in big trouble."
"We gained quite a bit of experience. I'm about to break through to the next realm."
"It's a pity that the [Snow Ape Saint Armor] mentioned in the illustration didn't drop; otherwise, we would have struck it rich this time."
With these words, the team members unanimously agreed and sighed.
Sun Er Lang, however, listened to this seemingly inexplicable conversation with a somewhat subtle expression.
"Let's go. There's nothing good around here. Let's return to the Joyful Land first."
"This [Xuanhuang Realm] is indeed not a place for humans. If it weren't for the mission, I really wouldn't want to come here."
The cultivators of the team flew into the skyship, discussing various matters.
The ship was enveloped in a burst of colored light, seemingly teleporting, disappearing from the sky.
Sun Er Lang stared at the location where they departed, and in his mind, the Dao Stone replayed the scenes it had just recorded.
"Joyful Land..."
"It should be within the influence of that Carefree Venerable's power. It seems a bit different from other places in the Xuanhuang Realm."
"They even refer to the Xuanhuang Realm as a 'place not fit for humans'... interesting."
"Perhaps this matter should be reported to Master."
Thinking like this, Sun Er Lang did not track the peculiar airship.
Keeping in mind the task assigned by his Master, he continued advancing toward the True Nation.
Three days later, as he crossed through a white mist barrier, Sun Er Lang distinctly felt that something had changed in the world.
"The region I just passed through belongs to the [Human Dao Heaven Territory]. As for here, it should be the [True Nation]."
Sun Er Lang knew that within the True Nation's territory, the laws of Dao governed, making it impossible for any cultivator to tell lies.
Thus, he became even more cautious.
Newly arrived, everything here was unfamiliar to Sun Er Lang. He decided to investigate the situation first before finding a way to meet the Venerable.
Compared to the Human Dao Heaven Territory, the True Nation appeared more peaceful. Few Elders from the Five Elders' association patrolled.
The boundaries between ordinary people and cultivators were not particularly distinct. From afar, he could see them living together in the same city.
"They are indeed ordinary people, without any cultivation. It seems that the power of Immortal and Mortal Miasma is suppressed here."
After careful observation, Sun Er Lang reached this conclusion.
What intrigued him even more was that social status here wasn't determined by cultivation level.
He even witnessed a young Foundation Establishment cultivator respectfully bowing to an ordinary elderly person.
It made him marvel.
After secretly observing for three days and gaining a rough understanding of the customs in the True Nation, he still hadn't found any suitable breakthrough.
"I can't just shout on the streets, 'I've come to request an audience with the True Venerable,' can I?"
Just when Sun Er Lang was at a loss, he suddenly noticed several outsiders similar to him one day.
"People from the Myriad Immortals Alliance?" Sun Er Lang narrowed his eyes.
Listening in on them for a while, Sun Er Lang suddenly understood.
These four cultivators were captives taken during the conflict between the Five Elders' association and the Myriad Immortals Alliance. They were currently undergoing the assimilation trial.
They were not restricted in their freedom and were allowed to travel in the three major territories of the Five Elders' association, excluding the Joyful Land.
"Brother Xu, how do you think the Five Elders' association compares to the Immortals Alliance?"
All four of them wore eye-catching green clothes, resembling prison uniforms. One middle-aged man with a long beard asked his companion.
The cultivator with the surname Xu seemed to be still recovering from severe injuries, his face pale. After a light cough, he replied, "Compared to the Immortals Alliance, it's indeed more free and relaxed here."
"Although we have to sign that soul contract, when we were in the Immortals Alliance, even without contractual constraints, we couldn't refuse any orders from the Immortals Alliance, could we? In my opinion, it's practically the same."
Another young cultivator echoed, "Moreover, once you sign the contract here, all the resources for techniques are in abundance. As long as you show enough talent, there's endless room for development, and no one will hinder or suppress you. Unlike the Immortals Alliance, hm..."
Although the man with the long beard had an unpleasant expression, he had to agree with the others' opinions.
"It seems, Brother Wang Yang still harbors illusions about the Myriad Immortals Alliance!" The Xu-surnamed man, observing Wang Yang's expression, sneered.
"Do you remember the Immortals Alliance, and does the Immortals Alliance remember you? I have never heard of a cultivator who, after being captured by the Five Elders' association, successfully escaped back to the Immortals Alliance. Moreover, even if you manage to escape, the Immortals Alliance will probably treat you as a spy and arrest you directly."
Although Wang Yang's expression changed constantly, he could only sigh in the end, unable to refute.
The four fell into an awkward silence for a while.
"By the way, the gentleman who introduced the situation of the Five Elders' association before once said that every cultivator in each state here has the opportunity to directly meet the Venerable. I don't know if it's true."
"Rest assured about this, Brother Zhang. I have checked this before; it is true. However, the methods to meet the Venerable in each region are different, and all are extremely difficult. Only peerless geniuses can attempt it."
"For example, the One Mind Immortal Sect, if you win twenty consecutive battles in a challenge, being unmatched, there is a high probability you will be brought before the One Mind Venerable."
"Or like here in the True Nation, it is said that as long as you sit under the True Fruit Tree and comprehend the Dao, the longer you persist, the more chance you have of receiving guidance from the Venerable." The Xu-surnamed man explained extensively.
"As for the trial of the True Fruit Tree, I have also tried it..." The Xu-surnamed man paused for effect.
When everyone's gaze focused on him, he continued, "Difficult! Difficult! Difficult!"
"You all know that there are no lies in the True Nation. The trial of the True Fruit Tree is about weaving lies as much as possible!"
The cultivator surnamed Xu's expression became somewhat strange. "Sitting under the fruit, it's as if you become an all-powerful creator. You need to create something out of nothing, fabricate an illusionary, separate world. The more detailed and real the world, the longer you can endure the cleansing of the tree."
"Wait..." Wang Yang interrupted Xu's words.
"What limits are there in weaving this world? Otherwise, wouldn't it be easier to use the unique small world style from the Xuanhuang Realm? " Xu shook his head, "At the very least, small worlds that truly exist within the Xuanhuang Realm cannot be presented in the illusion of the fruit. It's like..."
After pondering for a moment, he continued, "It's somewhat like 'Different Cultivation Paths Can't Coexist.' The moment a world is imitated like a gourd drawing a ladle, it will vanish at the moment of formation. Only something completely fabricated can stably exist and withstand the trial of the fruit. Describing it in words is indeed somewhat mysterious, but you'll understand once you personally experience it."
"Even if you can't ultimately meet the True Venerable, sitting under the True Fruit Tree and meditating is a great opportunity for cultivators like us. Weaving a world involves myriad Dao paths. It's challenging to achieve with a cultivator's own power. During the trial, it's more about utilizing the power of the tree. It's like the Venerable lending a brush to help us paint..." Xu's expression floated, as if reminiscing about that magical experience.
"What is the purpose of the Venerable doing this?" Wang Yang furrowed his brows slightly.
Xu sneered, "Purpose? Why bother thinking about that? I only know that completing the trial not only won't bring any harm but is extremely likely to lead to breakthroughs in comprehension. Such good fortune is only enjoyed by a few in the Myriad Immortals Alliance. In the Five Elders' association, everyone has the chance to try."
"The True Fruit Tree grows roots and sprouts in the illusion, blooming in every city. As long as there are interested individuals, they can sit and meditate under the tree."
"The fruit manifestation this time seems not far off. You can personally experience it. If it weren't for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, I would have tried the chance of creation again." Xu said regretfully.
The other three had different expressions.
Meanwhile, Sun Er Lang, who was eavesdropping from a distance, squinted his eyes.
"So coincidental? Did someone come to deliver a pillow just as I was about to nap? Could it be that I've been discovered? What conspiracy is this?"
This thought flashed through Sun Er Lang's mind.
"No, it should be that Master knew in advance that there are ways to directly meet the Venerables in various regions of the Five Elders' association. That's why he had me make this trip. Otherwise, under normal circumstances, how could an outsider have the chance to meet the supreme rulers of the Eternal Realm?" After pondering for a moment, Sun Er Lang suddenly realized.
"The True Fruit Tree?"
Sun Er Lang's mind stirred.
He had the Dao Stone in his mind and had experienced the trials of another world in the simulated world. Participating in this so-called creation under the tree should give him some advantages.
"Let's try it first and see. If it doesn't work, think of other methods."
With this determination in mind, Sun Er Lang patiently waited.
Another twenty days passed, and on this day, the calm city suddenly became somewhat chaotic.
On the ground, a shadow rapidly spread from the city center, covering the entire city.
Then, a luxuriant tree emerged from the shadow at the city's center.
It looked real and illusory.
On the treetop hung many lush and tempting fruits, attracting everyone's gaze at a glance.
"The True Fruit Tree has manifested, lasting for seven days and nights. All living beings within the realm can seek enlightenment under the tree."
Ding!
A crisp bell rang out, spreading towards the distance.
A melodious voice came from the sky, echoing in everyone's ears.
"Thank you for the grace of the Venerable!"
In the True Nation, countless beings collectively expressed their gratitude.
Three times in a row, the lingering echoes continued.
After the ceremonial formality concluded, cultivators walked one by one to the shadow of the True Fruit Tree, closing their eyes and meditating.
The city instantly became very quiet, afraid of disturbing those cultivators undergoing the trial.
The group of assimilated members of the Myriad Immortals Alliance, whom Sun Er Lang had encountered before, also walked slowly toward the True Fruit Tree.
Sun Er Lang hurriedly followed.
Along the way, there were no encounters with inspectors.
The statement of the Venerable, "All living beings can attempt," was indeed not an empty claim.
Arriving under the treetop, Sun Er Lang even saw not only humans but also some flying insects and beasts occupying a place in the tree's shade.
This peculiar scene left Sun Er Lang feeling somewhat emotional.
"It is said that ancient sages taught without discrimination. Not only humans but also all living beings can receive their guidance. This True Venerable does have a certain flavor."
Following the others, Sun Er Lang sat on the ground.
Closing his eyes.
In an instant, Sun Er Lang felt the surrounding world disappear.
The bustling noises that were present in the city vanished completely.
Although his eyes were closed, Sun Er Lang felt as if he had opened them again.
Before him was an expansive, white nothingness.
"Creating a world..."
Various rule information emerged successively in Sun Er Lang's mind.
"First, the general situation of the world."
Sun Er Lang then set it based on the simulated world he had experienced in the Dao Stone before.
The blank world then gained color.
However, to his surprise, just as the world was about to take shape, it collapsed like a sand sculpture, crashing down with a bang.
It reverted back to a blank state.
"Even a modified world based on the prototype of the Xuanhuang Realm won't work?"
"A completely fabricated world?"
Sun Er Lang couldn't help but furrow his brow.
However, in the next moment, a flash of insight came to him, recalling an example his Master used when teaching him.
He immediately had an idea.
"The Dao is imperceptible, but material things persist."