[Name: Jun Wuji (Lin Yuan)]
[Identity: Controller of the Myriad Realms Gateway]
[Bound Talent: Heaven-Defying Insight]
[Current Status: Consciousness Descended]
[Remaining Residency Time: Five Hundred Years]
Misty clouds.
Fairy energy wafting.
A slightly weak young man lay on a recliner, with two maids gently massaging him.
"I didn't expect that my consciousness would descend in this role."
The weak young man, Lin Yuan, discreetly surveyed his surroundings.
The two maids helping him with the massage seemed delicate, but Lin Yuan vaguely sensed a fluctuation of spiritual pressure from them.
"Golden Core stage female cultivators."
Lin Yuan closed his eyes and massaged his forehead.
By receiving the memories of the 'original body,' Lin Yuan understood that this time he traversed a world belonging to the realm of immortality.
Calling it an immortal realm was not entirely accurate; it was more like a vast world dominated by the path of immortality.
"My father is the current most talented disciple of the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, with a mutated Heavenly Spirit Root aptitude, groomed as the next Sect Master of the Immortal Sect."
"My mother is the Sect Master's own daughter, the jewel of the sky, and my grandmother is the 30th generation Sect Master of the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, a revered ancient saint who exerts pressure on the entire Central Continent. His strength is among the top three in the history of the Immortal Sect."
"My elder brother, also with a Heavenly Spirit Root aptitude, is expected to reach the Nascent Soul stage in the future."
"My second sister, with a mutated Earth Spirit Root, has a good chance of entering the Nascent Soul stage with the resources of the sect."
"As for me, am I just a waste without any spiritual root aptitude?"
Lin Yuan thought to himself.
In this world, spiritual roots were crucial; they were the 'bridge' to communicate with heaven and earth.
Spiritual roots were classified as Heavenly Spirit Root, Earthly Spirit Root, Dual Spirit Root, Triple Spirit Root, Quadruple Spirit Root, and Quintuple Spirit Root.
Quintuple Spirit Root was also known as a waste spirit root.
Given Lin Yuan's background, even if he had a waste spirit root like the Quintuple Spirit Root, he could still become a Foundation Establishment or even a Golden Core cultivator with a large amount of resources.
However, he happened to lack spiritual root aptitude.
Without a spiritual root, he couldn't absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.
Even if he forcefully stepped into the Foundation Establishment stage with resources, he would rapidly regress and eventually become a mortal again.
It was like a bamboo basket, no matter how much water it held, it would quickly leak out.
Fetching water with a bamboo basket was futile.
"Heaven and earth spiritual energy?"
Lin Yuan carefully sensed for a while.
He found that in this world, there was a faint, pure energy pervading the air.
Although it was far from the 'Red Spirit Liquid' of the main world, it was abundant and almost ubiquitous.
"Unfortunately."
Lin Yuan shook his head slightly.
Without a spiritual root, he couldn't even come into contact with the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. He couldn't feel it. Lin Yuan's awareness of the heavenly and earthly spiritual energy was entirely based on the powerful perception brought about by his consciousness descending.
"Young Master, are you okay?"
While Lin Yuan was contemplating, the two maids beside him asked with concern.
"I'm fine."
Lin Yuan shook his head slightly.
Even though he was considered a waste without spiritual root aptitude, as a third-generation immortal, he still held a certain status. Even the maids attending him were at the Golden Core stage. In the external world, Golden Core cultivators were considered powerful, and female cultivators at this stage were highly sought after. Yet, here they were, serving Lin Yuan.
As long as Lin Yuan wished, he could have them warm his bed at any time.
"You two can leave for now."
Lin Yuan waved his hand.
"Yes."
The two maids nodded and respectfully withdrew.
Lin Yuan watched the two women leave. These two Golden Core maids were arranged by Lin Yuan's mother, not only to serve him but also with the intention of protection.
"This world."
Lin Yuan's face showed a pensive expression.
In this world, vast and boundless, the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect occupied the resource-rich Central Continent. It was the most powerful, producing generations of ancient saints.
Beyond Central Continent, to the west, lay the land of savage and demonic beasts. The transformed great demons there often eyed Central Continent, but they had been suppressed by the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect multiple times.
To the south of Central Continent was the territory of ghost cultivators, shrouded in eerie ghost energy, not a place normal cultivators could stay for an extended period.
To the north of Central Continent, it was a gathering place for demonic cultivators. The strongest among them was the Lord of Blood Demon, cultivating the Blood Sea Demon Scripture, claiming to have an endless blood sea and achieving immortality.
"The Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, the savage demonic beasts, the ghost cultivators to the south, and the demonic cultivators to the north, are the four main forces. In the east, there are overseas islands rumored to be the base of some cults, but they haven't grown into significant forces."
"No doubt, among these forces, the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect is undoubtedly the strongest. With the strength of a single sect, it dominates the resource-rich Central Continent, forcing the other three major forces to the periphery."
Lin Yuan thought silently.
Through memories, Lin Yuan knew that although the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect used 'ethics' in its name, its actions were extremely domineering. Originally, Central Continent had several other major immortal sects besides the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, but they were all eventually wiped out by the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect.
In the end, the entire Central Continent became the exclusive domain of the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect.
"Regardless of the world, strength determines everything."
Lin Yuan thought to himself.
The Human Civilization Alliance in the main world constantly expanded, engaging in conflicts with other races, occupying numerous star systems, and was not much different from the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect.
"This residency period is five hundred years; I can take it slowly."
Lin Yuan glanced at the remaining residency time and let out a sigh of relief.
"This isn't the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect?"
Lin Yuan stood up. The place he was in now was like an otherworldly paradise, rich in spiritual energy. However, compared to the majestic atmosphere of the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect in his memories, it was far less impressive.
"It turns out he couldn't endure the pressure and took the initiative to have his parents send him out of the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect."
Lin Yuan immediately found the reason from his memories.
The original owner couldn't cultivate, and although he had a transcendent background, the true disciples and ranked disciples of the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect dared not mistreat him. However, facing the flying disciples of the sect every day inevitably made him somewhat depressed.
The cultivators who bowed before him, despite having a subservient posture, possessed strength and methods that Lin Yuan couldn't fathom.
After a long time in such a sharply contrasting environment, Jun Wuji decided to have his parents send him away.
The reason the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect was called the 'Immortal Sect' was because its spiritual energy was so abundant that it almost formed a substance. Practicing there provided incalculable benefits for any cultivator.
But Jun Wuji didn't need spiritual energy. Without spiritual roots, no amount of spiritual energy would be of any use.
So, the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect was not as important to Jun Wuji as one might imagine.
"This is fine."
Lin Yuan nodded slightly, quite satisfied.
If he were still in the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, he would have to be extremely cautious in the presence of a transcendent ancient saint.
A transcendent ancient saint, the strongest existence in this world, could pluck stars and seize the moon with a casual movement, equivalent to a sixth-tier evolutionist in the main world's hierarchy.
Moreover, the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect's sect-protecting immortal artifact had the power to destroy the heavens and the earth.
A transcendent ancient saint wielding the sect-protecting immortal artifact would be invincible.
This was why the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect could occupy Central Continent, as long as there was no generational change in transcendent ancient saints.
It was the undisputed strongest force in the current world, with no rivals.
"This should be the Cloud Mist Blessed Land?"
Lin Yuan carefully observed. Although the original owner couldn't cultivate, he still had some knowledge of common sense in the cultivation world.
In Central Continent, there were seventy-two blessed lands and one hundred and eight immortal caves. These were all first-class cultivation sanctuaries second only to the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect.
Among them, the Cloud Mist Blessed Land was one of the one hundred and eight blessed lands, with abundant spiritual energy that could supply daily cultivation and breakthroughs for Nascent Soul cultivators.
Jun Wuji didn't want to continue staying in the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, so his parents specially vacated one of the one hundred and eight blessed lands, the Cloud Mist Blessed Land, for him to reside in. It was evident that they doted on their son greatly.
The Cloud Mist Blessed Land was relatively close to the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, and if anything happened, immortal sect cultivators could quickly arrive.
"Family."
Jun Wuji had good relationships with his parents, older brother, and second sister. Even the grandfather who was the sect master had seen him more than once.
If Jun Wuji had spiritual roots, theoretically, his future prospects would be limitless.
Unfortunately, there are no 'ifs.'
In Central Continent, there are countless treasures of heaven and earth.
However, there are very few that can compensate for the lack of spiritual roots or even generate new ones.
Beyond the Cloud Mist Blessed Land.
Two figures shrouded in mist, a man and a woman, were silently watching the blessed land below.
"Wuji."
The female cultivator on the left looked despondent, gazing at Jun Wuji inside the blessed land, murmuring to herself.
"Lament, don't be sad."
"Wuji has no spiritual roots; there's nothing we can do about it."
The male cultivator next to her spoke softly.
Normally, spiritual roots are passed down through bloodlines.
Parents with spiritual roots increase the likelihood of their offspring having spiritual roots.
But nothing is absolute.
There are cases where parents have high spiritual roots, but their children end up with three or four spiritual roots.
However, cases like Jun Wuji's, where both parents have heavenly spiritual roots but give birth to a son with no spiritual roots at all, are rare.
For Jun Wuji's older brother and second sister, one with heavenly spiritual roots and the other with mutated earthly spiritual roots, that's normal.
"I'll go ask Father to take out the 'Nine Heavens Lustrous Water' and let Wuji take it."
The female cultivator spoke.
The Nine Heavens Lustrous Water is a treasure of Central Continent, rumored to have the effect of rebirth and regrowing spiritual roots when consumed by mortals.
Of course, no mortal has ever consumed the Nine Heavens Lustrous Water. It's too precious, and even transcendent ancient saints would make a significant effort to obtain it. Letting a mortal consume it?
"Lament."
"Don't mention this matter in front of the sect master."
"The Nine Heavens Lustrous Water is the main material for refining the Ancient Void Pill."
"And the Ancient Void Pill is a crucial pill for breaking through from Nascent Soul to Void Refinement."
"In our Ethical Dao Immortal Sect, a gap in the transcendent ancient saints must never happen."
The male cultivator next to her spoke solemnly.
He also wanted to help his son.
But the Nine Heavens Lustrous Water is related to the sect's heritage. How could they treat it lightly?
Not to mention Jun Wuji, even he couldn't use the Nine Heavens Lustrous Water until he reached the pinnacle of Void Refinement.
Ethical Dao Immortal Sect can only collect a strand of Nine Heavens Lustrous Water every ten thousand years, precisely for refining the 'Ancient Void Pill.'
The female cultivator remained silent.
She also understood this reasoning.
But seeing her son so melancholic made her heart exceptionally uneasy.
"Since he can't grow into a towering tree, what we can do."
The male cultivator sighed lightly, "Is to let him live his life quietly."
Cloud Mist Blessed Land.
Lin Yuan glanced in a certain direction.
"Finally left."
Lin Yuan thought to himself.
Ever since his consciousness descended, he vaguely sensed some form of scrutiny.
This scrutiny didn't carry malicious intent.
It should be his parents who had just sent him here.
"I wonder what I am considered now?"
"Is it possession? Or reincarnation?"
Lin Yuan picked up the jade tea cup beside him and took a sip.
As the tea entered his throat, it turned into strands of spiritual energy, nourishing Lin Yuan's physical body.
"Worthy of being a third-generation immortal, this immortal tea, if placed outside, would probably attract a group of Foundation Establishment cultivators to fight for it, right?"
Lin Yuan took a few more sips.
"It probably doesn't belong to possession."
Lin Yuan judged in his mind.
The essence of possession is the soul of the possessor taking over the body of the possessed.
But now, Jun Wuji's physical body and soul had not changed; only the consciousness had switched to Lin Yuan.
Moreover, possession is not uncommon in this world.
If Lin Yuan had taken over Jun Wuji, his parents, who had already reached the Nascent Soul stage, and even the two Foundation Establishment servant girls attending to him, would have noticed.
"Perhaps my consciousness was placed in this realm long ago, but encountered the 'Embryo's Illusion,' and only now awakened to my memories?"
Lin Yuan thought in his heart.
This could also explain why the time of awakening varied each time he traveled.
"Never mind."
"All of this doesn't matter."
Lin Yuan shook his head.
Whether it's reincarnation or possession, it's all inconsequential.
Consciousness descent, so be it.
Anyway, now he is Jun Wuji.
"The cultivation system in this world mainly revolves around the Daoist path, with other paths like demonic beasts, ghost path, and devil path essentially similar."
Although Jun Wuji lacks spiritual roots, he has tried various cultivation methods, covering a wide range. Lin Yuan now understands this.
As Lin Yuan contemplated, he arrived at the deepest part of the Cloud Mist Blessed Land.
This is the core of the entire blessed land, and also the place with the most abundant spiritual energy.
Staying in such an environment for a long time, even if one is just an ordinary person, would lead to a longer and healthier life.
"I need to rest."
"No need to pay attention to me."
Lin Yuan suddenly spoke.
"Yes."
Two female voices came from outside; they were Lin Yuan's two Foundation Establishment servant girls.
Spring Flower.
Autumn Moon.
As Lin Yuan's attendants and bodyguards, Spring Flower and Autumn Moon always kept their divine sense on Lin Yuan.
To prevent any accidents.
The sentence Lin Yuan just uttered made Spring Flower and Autumn Moon withdraw their divine senses.
This was also a habit of the original owner, Jun Wuji.
Although he was an ordinary person, he disliked being enveloped by divine sense.
Even though he couldn't sense the enveloping divine sense.
Sensing Spring Flower and Autumn Moon's divine sense leaving, Lin Yuan's thoughts slightly moved, taking out a few formation discs.
Then, he placed spirit stones in them and activated them directly.
Immediately, a hazy illusionary barrier enveloped the surroundings.
This formation disc could block the divine sense of cultivators.
Even if facing Nascent Soul or Nascent Divinity cultivators, it could provide an early warning.
Of course, Lin Yuan did not rely on these external items.
Whether it's formation discs or other means, Lin Yuan placed them in plain view for others to see.
Lin Yuan's true reliance was his own perception as a sixth-order evolutionist.
The perception of a sixth-order evolutionist is equivalent to the level of Nascent Divinity cultivators. Even if the head of the Ethical Dao Immortal Sect secretly probed Lin Yuan with divine sense, it would be immediately detected.
"That's about it."
After doing all this, Lin Yuan slightly relaxed.
Next.
What he needed to do was cultivate and restore his strength as much as possible.
Without strength, even with a background as vast as the heavens, no one would dare to provoke him, and Lin Yuan wouldn't feel secure.
The cultivation system in this realm, progressing from weak to strong, is divided into:
- Qi Refinement
- Foundation Establishment
- Golden Core
- Nascent Soul
- Nascent Divinity
- Void Refinement
Lin Yuan lacks spiritual roots and cannot absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. Naturally, he cannot follow the Immortal Dao cultivation system. However, the Martial Dao cultivation system is not exclusive to those with spiritual roots.
The Martial Dao cultivation system Lin Yuan established has a low entry threshold, especially for someone like Lin Yuan, the founder who has deduced Martial Dao to the sixth stage. It's even more effortless.
Exhale.
Inhale.
Lin Yuan sat cross-legged.
The vital energy within his body circulated. After a moment, Lin Yuan opened his eyes, took out a bottle of pills, poured one out, and swallowed it. The pill, upon entering his body, instantly transformed into a surging blood qi, continuously forming the 'internal qi' of the early Martial Dao stage.
The difference between the Immortal Dao and the Martial Dao in the early stages lies in the fact that the Immortal Dao requires refining the essence of heaven and earth into one's own qi. Here, the essence of heaven and earth refers to the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. In contrast, the Martial Dao refines one's own essence and transforms it into one's own qi.
In terms of efficiency, refining the essence of heaven and earth in the Immortal Dao is naturally faster. After all, the spiritual energy of heaven and earth is endless. However, the drawback is apparent - heavy reliance on the spiritual energy of heaven and earth.
If one loses access to spiritual energy or goes to a place without it, the Immortal Dao cultivation system would likely be cut off. On the other hand, the Martial Dao cultivation system, in its early stages, refines one's own essence. Regardless of the world, as long as one still has vitality, they can cultivate the Martial Dao.
Moreover, advanced stages of Martial Dao cultivation can forcibly absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. The so-called spiritual energy of heaven and earth is just a form of energy. Immortal Dao cultivators attract it with the help of their spiritual roots, while Martial Dao cultivators forcibly devour it.
After half a day, Lin Yuan took dozens of pills to enhance his blood and stepped into the second stage of Martial Dao, equivalent to the Foundation Establishment stage in the Immortal Dao.
"That's about it."
Lin Yuan converged his blood, concealing the aura of the second stage of Martial Dao.
In this world dominated by the Immortal Dao, if he suddenly displayed talents or abilities he didn't have before, even if there were no traces of 'body snatching', others would pay attention, especially with his profound background, including having a grandfather at the Nascent Divinity level.
It's better to be cautious.
Lin Yuan didn't want to see his parents taking him to his grandfather for inspection due to his unusual performance, and perhaps being kept by this Nascent Divinity expert.
"I need to create a technique that shields divine sense perception."
Lin Yuan fell into contemplation.
The means of investigation in the Immortal Dao world are primarily based on divine sense.
As long as the perception of divine sense can be obscured, it is equivalent to making it difficult for outsiders to actively detect Lin Yuan's true strength.
"Divine sense."
Lin Yuan pondered repeatedly.
Divine sense is a certain application of the power of the soul. To block the perception of divine sense, one must also use the power of the soul for 'prevention'.
Lin Yuan's extraordinary comprehension, combined with numerous evolution paths in the main world, including many soul-related evolution paths, allowed him to create a technique specifically aimed at resisting divine sense probing in just a few days.
This technique uses the power of his own soul to condense into a special barrier. When other cultivators probe with divine sense, it assimilates rapidly, achieving the goal of blocking.
"Not bad, not bad."
Lin Yuan nodded slightly.
Activating this technique, coupled with his own cultivation level, unless a Nascent Divinity-level figure comes personally and repeatedly checks Lin Yuan, there would be no way to detect any anomalies.
If Lin Yuan recovers to the fourth or fifth stage of strength, even a Nascent Divinity expert, as long as they superficially inspect him, wouldn't find any issues.
Two months later, Lin Yuan was in seclusion practicing.
Suddenly, at this moment, the maid Chunhua hurriedly came outside.
"Young Master, the Eldest Young Master and Second Miss are coming to see you."
"I know." Lin Yuan stopped cultivating and walked out.
The Eldest Young Master and Second Miss mentioned by Chunhua are naturally Lin Yuan's elder brother and second sister. The three of them have a good relationship, and the elder brother and second sister take good care of Lin Yuan.
When Lin Yuan lived on the Moral Immortal Mountain before, besides his parents and grandfather's background, another reason no one dared to provoke Lin Yuan was that all the disciples who tried to trouble him were beaten by his elder brother and second sister.
Over time, when the disciples of the sect saw Lin Yuan, they couldn't help but be cautious, fearing they might get beaten for any small mistake.
After all, letting other disciples get beaten, they could reason with the sect's law enforcement hall. But if Lin Yuan's elder brother and second sister did the beating, they could only swallow their grievances, considering their backgrounds.
"Junior Brother."
"Junior Brother."
Before Lin Yuan reached the main hall outside, he heard the voices of his elder brother and second sister.
"Elder Brother, Second Sister."
Lin Yuan greeted.
"Hahaha, Junior Brother, you look good."
"Tell me, who dared to fly in front of you? I'll make them fly for a year."
"A year is not enough, at least three years."
The elder brother and second sister spoke with a smile.
"Hahaha, it's okay, no need to trouble yourself," Lin Yuan waved his hand.
The original owner, Jun Wuji, was not a bad person, and he wouldn't cling to one thing forever. Otherwise, he wouldn't have willingly let his parents send him here.
Lin Yuan looked at the older brother and sister in front of him.
The older brother was a tall and sturdy man, very friendly when he smiled. It was said that he had the innate talent of a gold attribute spirit root and followed the path of sword cultivation. His killing power in the Ethereal Immortal Sect's Nascent Soul realm ranked in the top three.
Every time the wild monsters in the west went on a rampage, the older brother took the lead in suppressing them, and his hands were stained with the blood of many demon kings.
As for the second sister, she had a mutated thunder attribute earth spirit root, appearing gentle and reserved, but only in front of family. Outside, she was known as the Fairy of the Divine Sky.
"Younger brother says he won't pursue it, so we won't. Let those people off cheaply," the older brother said with a smile.
They could tell that Lin Yuan's mood seemed good now.
"Younger brother, let me tell you, this Misty Cloud Sanctuary is known as the 'Longevity' sanctuary."
"Among the 108 sanctuaries in the Divine Continent, each sanctuary has unique effects. The effect of Misty Cloud Sanctuary is longevity."
"If you stay here for a long time, occasionally take Longevity Pills, even if you don't cultivate, there is a great chance you'll live for several hundred or even a thousand years," the older brother explained.
The second sister nodded in agreement.
"When our parents set aside Misty Cloud Sanctuary as your residence, it faced criticism from many elders in the sect."
"But in the end, Dad went against the tide and secured this Misty Cloud Sanctuary," the second sister added.
"Caused trouble for Mom and Dad," Lin Yuan sighed.
You can imagine the emotions of those elders in the sect when they heard that Misty Cloud Sanctuary, one of the 108 sanctuaries, would be inhabited by a rootless waste.
But there was nothing they could do.
Even though Lin Yuan had no spiritual roots, he had a background.
Others could question all they wanted, but they couldn't make any substantial decisions.
This was the power of the third generation of immortals.
"These days," Lin Yuan felt pleased.
After experiencing the fourth traversal, the initial twenty years of oppressive darkness in the Abyss, this traversal started at its peak. Apart from not being able to cultivate, everything else was perfect.
Even the only drawback, the inability to cultivate, was only in the eyes of outsiders. In reality, Lin Yuan could still cultivate, and even progress rapidly.
"Oh, little brother."
"If you have any needs while staying here, just tell the older brother."
The three chatted for a while, and the older brother asked.
"Needs?" Lin Yuan pondered for a moment.
"I want to try practicing again. I need some Daoist techniques and also some body cultivation methods," Lin Yuan spoke.
The reason for such a request was Lin Yuan's desire to comprehend the cultivation system of this world. Without spiritual roots, he couldn't embark on the path of cultivation, but it didn't mean he couldn't understand and borrow from the Daoist cultivation system. Some concepts and ideas from the Daoist cultivation system could still provide him with inspiration. With his extraordinary comprehension, he could achieve remarkable results with just a bit of inspiration.
As for the later part about body cultivation techniques, body cultivation was a branch derived from the Daoist cultivation system. It focused solely on forging the physical body, free from limitations related to spiritual roots. However, attempting body cultivation involved enduring endless pain, and the lifespan gained through body cultivation was no different from that of an ordinary person. Hence, the original owner, Jun Wuji, hadn't tried this cultivation method.
"Little brother," the older brother and second sister sighed inwardly. They understood that Jun Wuji still hadn't given up on cultivation.
Throughout history, there had never been a case of someone without spiritual roots walking the path of cultivation. But the past belief of Jun Wuji was that just because something hadn't happened before didn't mean it wouldn't in the future. Therefore, Jun Wuji often collected Daoist techniques and some esoteric arts from various sources to experiment with cultivation.
The older brother, second sister, and their parents were aware of Jun Wuji's actions, even though they knew there might not be any tangible results. Yet, they couldn't bring themselves to stop him.
"Body cultivation techniques."
"Little brother, the path of body cultivation involves enduring tremendous pain. Be prepared for it," the older brother reminded.
For ordinary people, taking up body cultivation could be understandable, as it could enhance strength even if it didn't increase lifespan. However, for Jun Wuji, it seemed somewhat pointless, given his strength. After all, Jun Wuji's strength had little impact, and he rarely had a chance to use it.
"I want to understand the principles of body cultivation techniques," Lin Yuan stated his reason.
In reality, Lin Yuan was curious about the details of body cultivation techniques and how they forged the physical body. Generally, no cultivator focused solely on body cultivation. It was usually practiced by those who were already at the Golden Core or Nascent Soul stages, turning to body cultivation to enhance their physical strength and survivability.
"No problem," the older brother nodded. The procedures for taking out the treasures and artifacts of the Ethereal Immortal Sect required applications, but for the majority of techniques and arts, as long as they were recorded and copied into a jade slip, one could bring out as many as they wanted without much hassle.
The three chatted for a while.
The older brother and second sister then got up to take their leave.
"Is there something on your mind, older brother?" Lin Yuan keenly noticed a change in his brother's mood.
In the past, the older brother used to stay at least half a day when he came to see Lin Yuan.
"Nothing major. It's just that the wild monsters in the west have been a bit restless lately. I need to go over and kill dozens of Demon Kings to deter them," the older brother said, shaking his head with casual indifference.
To him, Demon Kings were like livestock waiting to be slaughtered, corresponding to Nascent Soul stage cultivators.
"Be careful. I heard there are signs of a new Demon Saint in the Demon Saint Nest," the second sister reminded, glancing at the older brother.
The Demon Saint Nest was considered a sacred ground for the wild monsters, said to be the dwelling place of a Demon Saint, equivalent to the Refinement Ancient Saint level.
"Don't worry. If there's really a Demon Saint aura, I'll definitely run," the older brother nodded.
"Demon Saint Nest," Lin Yuan fell into contemplation.
Although the Ethereal Immortal Sect held abundant resources in the Divine Continent, the monsters in the west, ghosts in the south, and blood demons in the north all had their eyes on the sect. However, with the unparalleled strength of the Ethereal Immortal Sect, they suppressed any unruly forces, maintaining peace over the years.
"Hahaha, little sister, I've told you not to mention these things in front of our little brother," the older brother laughed heartily when he saw Lin Yuan's expression.
"Don't worry. Even if we encounter a Demon Saint, the life-preserving methods bestowed by the sect leader can ensure our safety," he assured before leaving.
"Little brother."
"If you have any questions, be sure to tell your sister."
The second sister reminded Lin Yuan and then left as well.
For a while, the Misty Cloud Sanctuary became quiet again.
Several days later, disciples of the Ethereal Immortal Sect brought dozens of jade slips.
Inside were recorded numerous profound cultivation techniques.
At the bottom were three jade slips, containing the three most powerful body cultivation techniques collected by the Ethereal Immortal Sect.
"Body cultivation," Lin Yuan's eyes lit up.
He immediately started perusing them.
Body cultivation was renowned for forging the physical body. The evolution of martial arts also emphasized body forging. The foundation of the martial arts evolutionary system lay in the body's vitality. Building upon the physical body, practitioners nurtured their spirit and evolved their divine soul.
"In this realm's body cultivation, one can continuously explore the potential of the physical body. By purely enhancing physical strength, when the body reaches its peak, there's a certain probability of awakening a unique body technique."
Lin Yuan looked thoughtful.
The so-called body technique was a certain ability engraved deep in the blood vessels of the physical body.
This ability theoretically had no possibility of manifesting because it was too weak. However, body cultivation techniques did have the potential to rekindle such abilities.
Of course, it was only a possibility.
Awakening a body technique, even for the body cultivation lineage, was a legendary feat. Most cultivators who reached the pinnacle of body cultivation couldn't achieve it.
"Body technique," Lin Yuan's eyes sparkled. With his extraordinary comprehension, he could certainly refine and perfect the body cultivation techniques, greatly increasing the possibility of awakening a body technique.
From that day onwards, Lin Yuan secluded himself in the Misty Cloud Sanctuary, silently restoring his strength while comprehending the essence of the cultivation system in this realm.
Time passed silently.
In the blink of an eye, twenty years had gone by.
Misty Cloud Sanctuary.
Etheric mist filled the air.
On the rooftop pavilion, Lin Yuan lay on a recliner, leisurely inhaling and exhaling the 'Primordial Purple Qi,' which only appeared in the early morning.
Primordial Purple Qi was a type of spiritual energy in the world that could dispel hidden injuries and nourish the physical body, providing significant assistance to the body cultivation lineage.
Compared to twenty years ago, Lin Yuan's complexion had improved, and his body had become much stronger.
"Master, this is the brewed Misty Cloud Immortal Tea."
Spring Flower and Autumn Moon, two Foundation Establishment stage female cultivators, respectfully approached.
After placing the Misty Cloud Immortal Tea in front of Lin Yuan, the two women adeptly came to his side and began massaging.
"Master, practicing body cultivation techniques is too strenuous. Do you need to take a break?" Autumn Moon whispered.
"No need. Both of you can go down," Lin Yuan said casually without lifting his eyelids.
"Yes," Autumn Moon's expression showed a bit of disappointment. After paying respectful salutations, she left the rooftop pavilion.
On the mountain path, Spring Flower and Autumn Moon spoke softly.
"Master is too persevering. He actually cultivated the body cultivation lineage to the Foundation Establishment stage. How much pain must he endure?"
Spring Flower expressed her amazement.
Although the body cultivation lineage didn't rely on spiritual roots, practitioners had to endure endless pain during cultivation. Moreover, the consumption of resources was much higher than that of cultivators at the same stage.
As a prominent figure in the Ethereal Immortal Sect's third generation, Lin Yuan undoubtedly had abundant resources. However, being able to endure the pain of practicing body cultivation surprised others.
"Foundation Establishment stage in body cultivation brings vigorous vitality, robust physique, and unparalleled physical strength. Outside, many female cultivators desire to have a partner with such proficiency in body cultivation," Autumn Moon couldn't help whispering.
"Don't get ahead of yourself," Spring Flower glanced at Autumn Moon. "Do you know who Master is? Even without spiritual roots, he's not someone you can imagine."
"Senior Sister Spring Flower, I just respect Master. There's absolutely no other intention," Autumn Moon immediately explained.
"What the intention is, you know in your heart," Spring Flower shook her head.
Although they were sent to serve Jun Wuji, they needed his willingness. Forcibly? Spring Flower and Autumn Moon naturally didn't dare.
"However, Master has cultivated the body cultivation techniques to the Foundation Establishment stage, almost reaching its peak. There haven't been many instances of body cultivation practitioners advancing from Foundation Establishment to Nascent Soul stage in our Divine Continent."
Autumn Moon spoke softly.
Although the body cultivation lineage had unparalleled combat strength, its cost-effectiveness was too low, requiring enormous resources without extending lifespan.
Moreover, the most crucial factor was that breaking through from Foundation Establishment to Nascent Soul stage in body cultivation required enduring extreme pain, something few cultivators could withstand.
"Who knows? After all, who could have expected Master to achieve such accomplishments in the body cultivation path before?"
"Maybe in the future, Master will step into the Nascent Soul stage in body cultivation."
Spring Flower spoke optimistically.
Nascent Soul stage in body cultivation, even within the Ethereal Immortal Sect, was not considered weak. Placed across the Divine Continent, it marked Lin Yuan as an extraordinary figure in the realm.
"Even the entire body cultivation lineage has reached the Nascent Soul stage, and still no emergence of corporeal divine abilities?"
On the rooftop pavilion, after inhaling the 'Primordial Purple Qi,' Lin Yuan shook his head slightly, pondering.
"The body cultivation techniques I practice are a fusion and comprehension of the top seventy-three body cultivation techniques. Could it be that the so-called corporeal divine abilities are merely legends?"
Lin Yuan furrowed his brows.
"However, even if corporeal divine abilities haven't emerged, the body cultivation techniques have brought me considerable assistance. In terms of combat power, a Nascent Soul stage practitioner in body cultivation can almost sweep through the same cultivation level."
Lin Yuan thought to himself.
Over the years, Lin Yuan deliberately showcased his talent in the body cultivation lineage, even publicly revealing the strength of a Nascent Soul stage body cultivator recently.
This was done to request cultivation resources from his elder brother, elder sister, and parents.
If Lin Yuan were an ordinary person with a significant demand for cultivation resources, it would likely attract attention. However, if Lin Yuan immersed himself in the body cultivation path...
As widely known, the practice of body cultivation consumed far more resources than cultivators at the same level. Considering Lin Yuan's identity as a member of the third generation of the Ethereal Immortal Sect, the amount of resources needed to break through a realm would likely be tenfold or more, as a precaution against accidents.
Lin Yuan also occasionally went out for some fresh air.
In summary, Lin Yuan, besides reaching the Nascent Soul stage in body cultivation, had restored his martial arts realm to the peak of the fifth tier.
He had already begun the soul integration transformation, and stepping into the sixth tier, returning to the peak, was a matter of the near future.
Lin Yuan chose to publicly reveal his talent in body cultivation not just for acquiring resources but, more importantly, to conceal his own martial arts aura.
Martial arts, unlike immortal cultivation, belonged to completely different systems of practice. They were as different as the demonic path in the west, the magic path in the north, and the ghost path.
For the Ethereal Immortal Sect, whether martial arts or demonic arts, magical arts or ghost arts, all fell under the category of unorthodox and demonic paths. Once discovered, they could be directly suppressed.
This was the struggle between different paths, unrelated to right or wrong, good or bad.
For example, Jun Wuji, unable to cultivate due to a lack of spiritual roots, could still practice demonic or magic arts to avoid the issue of spiritual roots. However, from beginning to end, whether it was Jun Wuji's grandfather or his parents, they never considered having Jun Wuji switch to the demonic or magic paths.
The Ethereal Immortal Sect disciples were proud, always looking down on the demonic, magical, or ghost paths. Even if Jun Wuji lacked spiritual roots, he disdained practicing any cultivation path other than the immortal way.
"This is the struggle between paths."
Lin Yuan's expression became slightly solemn.
In this world, which belonged to the immortal path, cultivators were the mainstream. As for the demonic, magical, and ghost paths, they were all dispersed. If they dared to rebel, they would be directly suppressed.
For hundreds of thousands of years, it has been the same.
If Lin Yuan's martial arts strength is discovered, there's only one possibility.
That is to be killed.
Of course, given Lin Yuan's background, he might survive, but his martial arts cultivation would likely be crippled.
He would be confined and left to die.
Wanting martial arts and immortal cultivation to coexist?
It's possible.
But it's not just about words.
Nor is it about familial generosity.
It requires absolute strength.
If one day, martial arts could barely resist against immortal cultivation.
At least under the suppression of the Ethereal Immortal Sect, the martial arts lineage wouldn't face extinction.
It could survive, much like the demonic, magical, and ghost paths.
If it could contend with the Ethereal Immortal Sect without falling behind.
Then it could share the resource-rich Divine Continent with the Ethereal Immortal Sect.
But the latter is difficult.
For hundreds of thousands of years, the demonic, magical, and ghost paths have joined forces more than once, but they were all decisively crushed by the absolute power of the Ethereal Immortal Sect.
"I want to spread the path of martial arts evolution."
"It will inevitably involve the Ethereal Immortal Sect."
Lin Yuan thought silently.
The path of martial arts evolution has its roots in this world, and the Ethereal Immortal Sect is a formidable obstacle.
Moreover, the Sect Master of the Ethereal Immortal Sect is an ancient saint in the Refinement Void realm, wielding a sect-suppressing immortal treasure with the power to reach the peak of the sixth tier or even a half-step into the seventh tier.
This terrifying strength also put considerable pressure on Lin Yuan.
"Take it slow."
"I still have four hundred and eighty years of residence time."
"As long as I can cultivate to the peak of the sixth tier, I can contend with the Ethereal Immortal Sect's strongest force."
Lin Yuan thought to himself.
As for breaking through to the seventh tier, Lin Yuan was uncertain. In five hundred years, opening up the seventh tier in the path of martial arts evolution wasn't a simple task.
It's not about reaching the seventh tier in cultivation but opening up the evolutionary path to the seventh tier.
The difficulty between the two is incomparable, and even with Lin Yuan's extraordinary comprehension, there's not much certainty.
Those seventh-tier paths in the main world were created over thousands to tens of thousands of years. The founders of those paths were mostly eighth or ninth-tier evolutionary beings. Under such comprehensive and insightful creation, the difficulty would be greatly reduced.
"Forget about the Ethereal Immortal Sect for now."
Lin Yuan's thoughts converged. He wanted to spread the path of martial arts in this world, preparing for the 'ultimate leap' in the future.
First, he needed to lay the foundation for the spread of the path of martial arts evolution.
The rise to prosperity of a cultivation system is impossible to happen in a short time.
If Lin Yuan were to wait until his strength reached the peak of the sixth tier, it would probably take several hundred years.
By that time, even if he could contend with the Ethereal Immortal Sect's strongest force, the remaining one or two hundred years wouldn't be enough to propagate the path of martial arts.
One or two hundred years might not even give birth to a third or fourth-tier martial artist.
When Lin Yuan leaves, facing the Ethereal Immortal Sect's counterattack, the martial arts lineage probably won't even have the qualification to resist and would be easily crushed.
So.
To spread the path of martial arts, a different approach is needed.
Must plan ahead.
Develop over four or five hundred years.
This way, even after Lin Yuan leaves.
The path of martial arts can still survive.
As for how long it can survive.
That's beyond Lin Yuan's influence.
Lin Yuan can only do everything possible during the five hundred years in this world.
"World consciousness of this world," Lin Yuan carefully sensed for a while.
"For the suppression of other cultivation systems, it's not very severe," Lin Yuan speculated.
World consciousness varies between different worlds.
The world consciousness of the world Lin Yuan traversed for the fourth time was extremely 'stingy' and couldn't tolerate other cultivation systems.
However, the Immortal Dao world Lin Yuan is in now is relatively lenient, which is why the demonic, ghost, and magical paths can coexist.
"Twenty years of lying low."
"Now I can start making moves."
Lin Yuan's gaze was calm.
Making moves depends on strength too.
If Lin Yuan only recovers to the second or third-tier strength, equivalent to the Foundation Establishment or Golden Core stages of this world, facing a group of Nascent Soul and Core Formation powerhouses, just preserving his life is enough. What strategy could he talk about?
But now.
Lin Yuan is already at the peak of the fifth tier.
Equivalent to the peak of the Golden Core stage. With various means at his disposal, he estimates that he can match even the Refined Void Ancient Saint.
Naturally, he now has the qualification to make moves.
"To spread the path of martial arts evolution, I first need to establish influence, a force consisting purely of martial cultivators."
"And to establish influence, there must be territory."
Lin Yuan's thoughts moved slightly.
A map appeared in front of him.
In the center of the map is the Divine Continent, the sphere of influence of the Ethereal Immortal Sect.
To the north, a region is depicted in blood-red and black, the territory of the Blood Demon Lord, also the sacred land of demonic cultivators.
To the west, it's the area of the wilderness and savage beasts. It is said that the 'Demon Saint's Nest,' protected by the savage beasts of the wilderness, can nurture demon saints comparable to the Refined Void Ancient Saints.
To the south, a region shrouded in eerie ghostly aura belongs to the gloomy ghost cultivators. Legend has it that the origin of the gloomy ghost cultivators is the mysterious Ghost Palace, which connects to the gloomy underworld.
Lin Yuan's gaze continuously swept across the map.
Whether it's the Divine Continent, or the north, west, or south.
All have forces occupying them. It's difficult for martial arts to develop by choosing any of these three places.
"East."
Lin Yuan looked towards the eastern region on the map.
There, facing the East Sea, is a place for various unaffiliated and mysterious cultivators.
In simpler terms, it belongs to the 'three do not interfere' zone, filled with numerous unidentified cultivators.
Many cultivators who offended the Ethereal Immortal Sect fled to the East Sea Islands. As long as they didn't court death, they could live freely.
"I can start from the East Sea," Lin Yuan thought to himself.
At least in the East Sea Islands, the sources of power are complex, and martial arts are mixed in, not particularly conspicuous.
"You go to the East Sea, spread martial arts, and establish influence."
Lin Yuan's thoughts moved slightly, and an illusory figure walked out from his body.
When this illusory figure touched the outside world, it quickly solidified, emitting the power of the sun all over its body, with bright eyes, standing quietly there.
It was Lin Yuan's 'Yang Spirit.'
Also known as the Sun Divine Spirit.
At the fifth stage of martial arts, a corresponding martial spirit can be born.
The martial spirit is like a 'clone,' sharing the same consciousness as the main body.
And its strength is not much weaker than the main body.
Lin Yuan's 'Yang Spirit,' currently exerting full force, should have no opponents under the Refined Void Ancient Saint.
Swoosh.
The Yang Spirit disappeared.
Following Lin Yuan's instructions, it headed to the distant East Sea.
In fact, Lin Yuan and the Yang Spirit share consciousness, and what the Yang Spirit sees, Lin Yuan can also see. Conversing with the Yang Spirit is similar to talking to himself.
Hum.
Lin Yuan's Yang Spirit, turning substance into illusion, easily passed through many restrictions in the Cloud Mist Sanctuary and arrived in the outside world.
"I estimate it will take some time for him to return this time."
Lin Yuan muttered, then turned and flew towards the east.
On the mountain peak of the Cloud Mist Sanctuary.
Lin Yuan still sat cross-legged.
Sending out the Yang Spirit was part of Lin Yuan's plan.
Later on, Lin Yuan would continue to send out the Yin Spirit.
The two martial spirits were equivalent to Lin Yuan's two 'clones.'
One body, three divisions, sharing consciousness.
Moreover.
With the martial spirits outside.
There is another advantage.
Even if Lin Yuan's main body falls.
It's not a complete death.
Yin begets Yang.
Yang begets Yin.
Yin and Yang beget Taiji.
Taiji begets all things.
As long as the Yin and Yang spirits exist, a new physical body can be born.
Similarly, as long as the physical body exists, even if the Yin and Yang spirits perish outside.
It can also gather new Yin and Yang spirits with the physical body.
Main body, Yin Spirit, Yang Spirit.
As long as one is alive, Lin Yuan cannot die.
Therefore, Lin Yuan sending out Yin and Yang Spirits also increases his ability to protect himself.
Half a month later.
"I'm almost restored to the sixth-stage strength."
Lin Yuan carefully sensed it and thought to himself.
"Body cultivation."
Lin Yuan contemplated.
For the Body Cultivation lineage, breaking through to the Refining Void realm is as difficult as reaching the sky.
Almost impossible.
For hundreds of thousands of years in the Central Divine Continent,
No Refining Void practitioner has been born from the Body Cultivation lineage.
Just as Lin Yuan was contemplating the Refining Void realm of the Body Cultivation lineage and attempting to deduce it with his extraordinary insight,
Suddenly, his face changed slightly.
He looked up towards outside the Cloud Mist Sanctuary.