Chapter 141: Central Land Immortal Palace (Seeking Subscriptions and Monthly Votes)
"Father!" Jin Ji lowered his head in shame.
He knew that Black Bo must have informed his father. The 'spirit beast' that had signed the soul contract would establish a mysterious connection with the master.
"Jin Qing is dead, Jin Long is dead, and even the 'formation flags' of the Seven Star Profound Flame Formation are all gone." The virtual figure in purple robes sat on the jade platform, overlooking Jin Ji. "Letting you control the Great Jin is truly my mistake."
Jin Ji dared not raise his head even more.
He knew his father was truly angry.
After a long time.
"Get up. Tell me everything that happened this month, and don't leave out any details. Especially the battle with that 'Fang Xia'." The virtual figure in purple robes said slowly. "Yes."
"After receiving the treasures bestowed by my father, I went to the original Scarlet Palace and the Starry Sea Pavilion separately..." Jin Ji recounted the events from start to finish, lowering his head, and his voice getting quieter. "In the end, only I managed to escape."
"Father."
"This is a part of the recorded battle footage." Jin Ji waved his hand, and a light screen formed beside him.
Displayed on it was the scene of him controlling the Seven Star Profound Flame Formation, chasing Fang Xia in the vast white mist.
"Hmm." The virtual figure in purple robes watched the light screen without speaking, seeming to be in contemplation.
Jin Ji respectfully lowered his head.
He didn't dare to say anything more.
The images in the light screen repeated over and over again. After a long time, as if the magical power contained in the images was exhausted, it burst into countless dots of light.
"Father, I'll..." Jin Ji was about to use magic.
"No need." The virtual figure in purple robes pressed down with his hand.
Jin Ji immediately kept quiet.
Sitting on the jade platform, the virtual figure in purple robes said slowly, "This Fang Xia should have comprehended the 'Domain Realm'."
"Domain Realm?" Jin Ji widened his eyes in disbelief.
He naturally knew about the Domain Realm.
He also understood how powerful the Domain Realm was. Once a Qi Refiner at the Ninth Level of the Qi Sea comprehended the Domain Realm, they would be invincible in the Qi Sea Realm.
"Don't believe it?"
"Your way of fighting is not a problem. Seven Refiners forming an array, controlling the formation." The virtual figure in purple robes spoke slowly. "If it were other Ninth Level Qi Sea cultivators, like the Northern King or the Savage God, perhaps they would have killed him."
"And this Fang Xia didn't even use any powerful treasures."
"Relying solely on formations and spells, he managed to block you all?" The virtual figure in purple robes shook his head slightly. "If the formation he set up was really that strong, would you have broken the formation bases scattered around out of thin air? It's unreasonable!"
Jin Ji suddenly understood.
"It can only mean that Fang Xia's own strength is formidable."
"Watching his battle, that overwhelming golden aura should be the power of the Domain Realm." The virtual figure in purple robes sighed lightly. "The Domain Realm... given enough time, stepping into the Foundation Establishment Realm is just a matter of time."
Jin Ji held his breath.
Foundation Establishment Realm?
He had read the 'Purple Mansion Jade Record' and was well aware that even in the vast and endless 'Upper Realms,' those in the Foundation Establishment Realm could get by quite well.
Could Fang Xia definitely become a Foundation Establishment cultivator?
It's worth noting that since the establishment of the Nine Provinces by Martial Emperor, for thousands of years, there had never been a Foundation Establishment cultivator in the Central Land Continent.
"Think about it."
"Spiritual energy of heaven and earth is continuously recovering, and for thousands of years, the population on the Central Land Continent has been multiplying, and more and more geniuses are emerging." The virtual figure in purple robes spoke softly. "Over a thousand years ago, at most, there were more than ten simultaneous Heaven List experts in the world."
"Now?"
(Note: The text appears to be incomplete, and the continuation of the chapter is not provided. If you have specific requests or need further assistance, feel free to ask.)
"All the forces in the world, both overt and covert, probably exceed seventy Heaven List experts," the virtual figure in purple robes said softly. "With so many Qi Refiners, it's only a matter of time before Foundation Establishment cultivators emerge."
Jin Ji listened.
"Ji'er!"
"This battle was not solely your responsibility." The gaze of the virtual figure in purple robes fell on Jin Ji.
Jin Ji lowered his head.
"If Zhao Xing and Hai Feizhang were willing to join forces with you in this battle, the three of you manipulating the formation might have won." The figure in purple robes said slowly, "Unfortunately, they were unwilling to act, so this outcome was inevitable."
"Now."
"Even if I come out of the treasure realm, without the Seven Star Profound Flame Formation, it's difficult to deal with Fang Xia."
"Stop here." The virtual figure in purple robes said.
"Father, give up?" Jin Ji found it hard to accept.
After such heavy losses in this battle.
Is it over like this?
"Otherwise, what else can we do? Fight Fang Xia to the death?" The virtual figure in purple robes said coldly. "Be clear-headed. When things can't be done, it's time to cut losses."
"You need to understand that Martial Emperors and the Starry Tower have always been watching over our Great Jin."
"I will communicate with the two great sacred grounds." The virtual figure in purple robes said softly. "Let go of all six prefectures in Jiangzhou, in exchange for Fang Xia's withdrawal."
"Surrender the six prefectures?" Jin Ji found it even harder to accept. "Won't that completely unify Jiangzhou under the control of Hengyun Sect?"
The six prefectures were the territory gained by Great Jin through numerous battles.
"If defeated, not conceding and ceding territory, how can Hengyun Sect be appeased?" The virtual figure in purple robes said coldly. "Let go of the six prefectures, it's just delaying time."
"Hengyun Sect originally only had three prefectures. Now, they have swallowed more than ten at once. It should be enough time for them to digest."
"Without one or two decades, they won't provoke war again."
"This period of time is the most crucial."
"Wait for me to return smoothly from the treasure realm. As long as Fang Xia hasn't truly broken through the Domain Realm, so what?" The virtual figure in purple robes said slowly. "Kill him just the same!"
Jin Ji's eyes lit up.
He understood his father's meaning.
"Go down and recuperate."
"Prepare the imperial edict and hand it over to Hengyun Sect." The virtual figure in purple robes said softly. "Also, hand over the treasures I prepared earlier to 'Dong Guang'."
"The Heaven List enshrined by our royal family, only he can command."
"Yes!" Jin Ji respectfully replied.
In addition to cultivating royal family members, the Great Jin royal family also sought to enlist many powerful individuals.
Unfortunately, Heaven List experts were not easy to cultivate. Due to the royal family's reservations, in the past two hundred years, only two Heaven List experts were born.
One fell in Xinzhou, leaving only one alive.
...
Watching Jin Ji leave, the virtual figure in purple robes meditated for a moment.
He waved his hand.
Two streams of light flashed across the sky in the temple.
After a long time.
"Swoosh!" "Swoosh!" Countless light spots gathered, forming two virtual figures, one in black robes and the other in blue robes.
Both of them looked at the virtual figure in purple robes.
"Zhao Daoist, Hai Daoist." The virtual figure in purple robes smiled slightly. "It's been many years since we last met."
The figures in black and blue robes exchanged glances.
They were none other than the leaders of the original Xia Palace, Zhao Xing, and the leader of the Starry Sea Pavilion, Hai Feizhang.
"Jin Quan, you suddenly used the precious 'Shadow Transformation Talisman' to summon us, there must be important matters." The figure in black robes said softly.
"Yes."
The virtual figure in purple robes nodded, calmly saying, "Zhao Daoist speaks straightforwardly. I won't hide it from you. Both Zhao Yidao and Hai Jiandao have died!"
"What? Yier is dead?" Zhao Xing's pupils contracted.
"Hai Jian is dead?" Hai Feizhang's face changed slightly.
The great battle that erupted at Yunshan had just ended, and they were both in seclusion, and had not received any news.
This news was too shocking for them.
Whether it was Zhao Yidao or Hai Jian, they were the second strongest in their respective sects, how important were they to the sects?
"Dear Daoists, there's no need to get angry. They both died at the hands of Fang Xia from Hengyun Sect." The virtual figure in purple robes said calmly. "Let me explain in detail..."
He quickly repeated Jin Ji's words.
From anger at the beginning, Zhao Xing and Hai Feizhang gradually turned into shock, and finally fell silent.
After a long time.
"All dead?" Zhao Xing spoke slowly, his voice hoarse. "Jinquan, do you know how many Heaven List experts there are in our Xia Palace? Only seven in total!"
"In this battle, three died!"
"How many times can we afford to lose?" Zhao Xing's voice contained an uncontrollable anger.
"My Starry Sea Pavilion is also left with only four Heaven List experts." Hai Feizhang sighed softly, his voice filled with heartache.
Heaven List ah!
Even a powerful empire like the Great Jin, with vast territory.
The three major sacred grounds combined had less than twenty Heaven List experts.
It should be noted that the Xia Palace and the Starry Sea Pavilion, with a thousand years of heritage, each had only six or seven Heaven List experts, accumulated slowly over hundreds of years.
And in this battle, six were lost!
"The road to unifying the world inevitably involves casualties."
The virtual figure in purple robes sighed softly. "Jin Long died, and the treasures were lost. I also feel heartache. If you want to blame someone, blame Fang Xia for being too powerful."
"Are we going to let Hengyun Sect go like this?" Zhao Xing's eyes were cold. "Jinquan, this battle was provoked by you."
The virtual figure in purple robes said slowly, "In terms of personal strength, Fang Xia is above any of the three of us. Even if we join forces, wanting to break through Yunshan is beyond our capabilities."
"I will go into seclusion to seek a breakthrough."
"Once I break through."
"At that time, he won't be able to stop me. No one in the entire Central Land will be able to stop me." The virtual figure in purple robes said softly.
Zhao Xing and Hai Feizhang were both surprised.
Breakthrough?
"Golden Core realm?" Zhao Xing stared at the virtual figure in purple robes.
"Hehe, from Qi Sea to Golden Core, it's quite challenging." The virtual figure in purple robes laughed. "I also have no absolute certainty."
Zhao Xing and Hai Feizhang fell silent.
Not denying it was admitting it.
"Jinquan, what do you want us to do?" Hai Feizhang asked slowly.
"Time!" The virtual figure in purple robes said calmly. "Guard the Great Jin for me."
"Give me enough time to break through."
"Just like our alliance more than a hundred years ago, the martial geniuses of Great Jin will join your sects."
"In the future, once I break through and unify the Central Plains."
"I promise that the entire Central Plains will have only the Xia Palace and the Starry Sea Pavilion as the two major sects. I will also guide you into the Golden Core realm." The virtual figure in purple robes said softly.
Zhao Xing and Hai Feizhang exchanged a glance.
More than a hundred years ago, it was their two major sects supporting Jin Quan that allowed Great Jin to quickly unify the Holy State and expand rapidly in all directions.
The imperial family of Great Jin wanted to unify the world.
The two major martial arts sects wanted to strengthen their foundations. With the three parties in agreement, they eventually formed the mighty Great Jin Empire that dominated the world.
After contemplating for a long time.
"Good!" Zhao Xing said in a low voice. "Jinquan, I promise you, but you have to let us read the 'Purple Palace Jade Record' first."
"Yes!"
"Purple Palace Jade Record," Hai Feizhang said.
This was the treasure they had long desired.
"No problem." The virtual figure in purple robes said calmly. "In addition, I will also give each of you a fifth-grade spiritual weapon."
...
Time passed.
In the blink of an eye, it was late October, more than ten days had passed since the fierce battle at Yunshan.
The world was in turmoil, but the impact on ordinary people and martial artists was minimal.
Deep beneath Yunshan.
Inside the jade room.
The four highest-ranking members of Hengyun Sect gathered.
Fang Xia had come out of seclusion two days ago, and his vitality had improved a lot.
"Ancestor, all orders have been issued, and the news has spread completely." Huan Jian, who had been in charge of the sect these days, said softly. "I believe the territories of the ten prefectures will quickly stabilize."
"The various laws that were originally promulgated will no longer be obstacles."
"This battle showcased the might of our Ancestor. Great Jin suffered heavy losses, making it a crucial battle for the rise of our Hengyun Sect." Beside him, Bu Yu smiled.
"Everyone knows that our Hengyun Sect will not only avoid destruction but will truly prosper. Who would dare to have any evil intentions?" Both of them felt proud.
Especially Bu Yu.
He broke through not only before his old age but also witnessed the rise of the sect with his own eyes.
How fortunate?
"The territories of the ten prefectures are just the beginning." Fang Xia said calmly. "Yesterday, Zhao Xing and Hai Feizhang joined forces and arrived outside my Yunshan."
Bu Yu and Huan Jian were instantly shocked.
They naturally knew these two figures.
Zhao Xing and Hai Feizhang were both leaders of major forces, renowned for centuries.
Especially Zhao Xing, he rose to prominence even earlier than 'Wanxing Daoist,' and his age was probably over four hundred.
Two such powerful cultivators came to Yunshan together?
On the side, Wu Yuan listened calmly.
When the two powerful cultivators attacked, he sensed something. However, he wasn't clear about what had happened.
"They promised to cede the western land of Jiangzhou's six prefectures to us, allowing our Hengyun Sect to unify Jiangzhou," Fang Xia said slowly.
Bu Yu, Huan Jian, and Wu Yuan exchanged glances.
The Great Jin, having recently fallen from the top six celestial rankings, was now proposing territorial concessions?
"Ancestor, what conditions did they offer?" Wu Yuan frowned.
"A ceasefire and peace talks," replied Fang Xia.
Before the three could ask again, Fang Xia spoke, "I have agreed. If we don't accept, Hengyun Sect may never have peace. Sometimes, it's wise to cut one's losses."
"Fine," Huan Jian said quietly.
"It's a great thing to unify Jiangzhou without spending a single soldier. The Great Jin's three major holy sites, although suffering heavy losses in the previous battle, if the Emperor and others unite to attack, relying solely on the Ancestor might not be enough," Bu Yu said solemnly.
Having reviewed the information from the Seven Star Tower, they were aware of the depth of the Great Jin's resources.
"In November, the Great Jin will gradually withdraw from Jiangzhou. Huan Jian, you'll arrange for the sect's military and civilian officials to take over. Integrate the six prefectures as quickly as possible. If Dongmeng and Ximeng surrender and submit, that's good. If they have other intentions, execute without mercy," Fang Xia instructed.
"Yes!" Huan Jian nodded.
"Factional rule is a long-term matter. We, as Qi cultivators, don't have so much energy. Once everything is settled, it will mainly be managed by the warriors below," Fang Xia whispered. "There's one more thing, involving all of you."
Phew!
Fang Xia flipped his palm, revealing several azure crystals, about half a palm high. They seemed like jade but more crystalline and dreamlike.
"What's this?"
"Source stones? Doesn't seem like it," Bu Yu and Huan Jian were puzzled.
"Virtual Realm Jade?" Wu Yuan stared at the crystal, somewhat hesitant. It was a special treasure mentioned in the immortal records.
"This thing is the 'Palace Jade' from the Central Land Immortal Palace," Fang Xia explained slowly. "Just imprint your divine consciousness on the Palace Jade, similar to recognizing a master."
"Once the Central Land Immortal Palace opens, you can enter through the Palace Jade."
Bu Yu and Huan Jian were increasingly confused.
Wu Yuan listened attentively.
"This is information about the 'Central Land Immortal Palace.' Read it first," Fang Xia took out three thin books and handed them to Bu Yu, Wu Yuan, and Huan Jian.
The three quickly read through them.
"Central Land Immortal Palace?"
"Such a place exists? Divine consciousness transforming, spanning thousands of miles, as if in an instant?" Bu Yu exclaimed in amazement.
"A Martial Sage controlling such a magical treasure?" Huan Jian was also shocked. "Indeed a celestial treasure, enabling communication among the Central Land's top-ranking experts during critical moments."
Wu Yuan, after a brief perusal, fully understood.
The so-called Central Land Immortal Palace was exactly what the immortal records referred to as the 'Godly Virtual Realm,' and the crystal was the Virtual Realm Jade.
"As mentioned in the immortal records."
"The highest level of the Godly Virtual Realm is even more magical and marvelous than the previous 'Elemental Universe'," Wu Yuan whispered, "I just don't know to what extent the Martial Sage's 'Central Land Immortal Palace' can reach."
The Elemental Universe, also known as the holographic virtual world, is miraculous but limited by technology and various constraints.
The Godly Virtual Realm created by powerful cultivators can almost turn the virtual into reality, accommodating countless possibilities.
"The Central Land Immortal Palace requires possession of divine consciousness to enter," Fang Xia said softly. "In other words, only experts at the top of the celestial rankings can enter."
"As per the information from the last 'Dong Pan' and what I said."
"Due to the rise of our Hengyun Sect, they will open the Central Land Immortal Palace on November 10th."
---
Author's note: The second chapter, like the previous one, is still over 10,000 words. Seeking votes!
(Following text added after publication, not included in the word count)
After reading some readers' questions, I thought about unifying explanations.
1. How many top-ranking experts are there?
Answer: There aren't as many top-ranking experts as hundreds; there are only a few dozen. Each major power has two to three, at most ten. According to the setting, even if overseas forces are included, along with demonic beasts, there are only around seventy to eighty.
"The Celestial Rankings" only records those with publicly known achievements, averaging over two hundred. In reality, there are some hidden master-level cultivators, especially in more peaceful top-tier powers like the Star Pavilion, Martial Sages, and the Wilderness Divine Temple. They train some experts completely unknown to outsiders. Moreover, with the Celestial Rankings focusing on cultivation, the breakthrough probability is higher.
One important point to note: those on the Celestial Rankings can only live a little over a hundred years, while those on the top rankings can live up to five hundred years. In other words, the current few dozen top-ranking experts have accumulated over multiple generations.
2. How did Hengyun Sect withstand the Great Jin for hundreds of years?
Answer: It didn't withstand for hundreds of years; Hengyun Sect never truly clashed head-on with the Great Jin from the beginning. Initially, the Great Jin clashed with the Chujiang Empire, waging war for many years until the Chujiang Empire's top experts on the Celestial Rankings perished, leading to its complete destruction and Hengyun Sect's independence.
In the first two hundred years of its founding, Hengyun Sect didn't genuinely rule over territorial domains. After the Chujiang Empire's demise, the original territorial rule collapsed, and the reason the Great Jin Empire couldn't unify Jiangzhou was due to the Eastern powers, led by the Star Pavilion and Martial Sages, contesting with the Great Jin's three holy sites.
The Great Jin ceased its eastward expansion. The Star Pavilion, also unwilling to let other major forces occupy the region, supported Hengyun Sect, Baijiang Wang, Yuanhu Lao Ren, and other small forces, dividing and conquering.
To end this chaos, someone like Fang Xia, possessing formidable strength, is needed to force the Great Jin, the Star Pavilion, and Martial Sages to acknowledge.
3. Why did the Chujiang Empire allow sects like Hengyun?
Please refer to the relationship between the Great Jin royal family and its two major martial sects during the expansion period.
Once expansion reaches its peak, will there be concerns about martial sects turning the tables? Will they be willing to support smaller martial sects? In the words of the ancients: "Build many vassals while reducing one's effort!"
(In a fictional world, there are bound to be inconsistencies that must be acknowledged, especially in a world that combines the powers of heaven and earth in a wuxia setting. One can only try to make explanations plausible.)
(End of this chapter)
Chapter 142: Warning, Golden Core Cultivator Appears
"Does the Central Land Immortal Palace not open for an extended period?" Wu Yuan was slightly stunned.
"No!"
"According to Dong Pan, every time the Central Land Immortal Palace opens, it requires a massive amount of 'source stones,'" Fang Xia said, "If it were to be kept open for an extended period? The number would be astronomical, something a Martial Sage can't sustain."
Wu Yuan suddenly understood.
According to the information in the immortal records, in the vast world of Qingling, most immortal sects and sacred realms would establish their 'Godly Virtual Realms,' maintaining them for an extended period, with only differences in strength.
However...
Martial Sages, compared to true immortal sects, are too weak and can't sustain the prolonged operation of the Central Land Immortal Palace.
"Normally, the Central Land Immortal Palace holds a fixed 'meeting' every ten years," Fang Xia said.
"As for the interval of these regular meetings?"
"It depends on the mood of the Martial Sages."
"Or, it depends on whether any major events affecting the Central Land's situation, even its survival, occur," Fang Xia smiled. "After all, the Central Land Immortal Palace is essentially a special treasure, and its 'core' is controlled by Martial Sages."
Wu Yuan, Bu Yu, and Huan Jian all nodded.
In the hands of Martial Sages.
How to use it naturally depends on the Martial Sages.
"This time, my Hengyun Sect has risen strongly," Fang Xia said. "So, Dong Pan decided to open the Central Land Immortal Palace, and I also think it's a good opportunity."
"Declare the existence of our Hengyun Sect to various factions."
"At the same time."
"If the four of us enter the Central Land Immortal Palace simultaneously, other forces won't understand the situation, and they will undoubtedly think that we have four Celestial Ranking experts, making them hesitate to take action," Fang Xia said solemnly.
Wu Yuan and the others all nodded.
Powerful factions with numerous Celestial Ranking experts might conceal their strength, preventing some from entering the Central Land Immortal Palace. However, smaller factions would seek ways to enhance their influence, deterring potential adversaries.
Hengyun Sect had just risen.
Naturally, they had to make everyone aware of the extreme strength of Hengyun Sect.
"Next, Huan Jian, Bu Yu, you don't need to be stingy with spiritual liquid. Transform your bodies and open your Qi Seas as quickly as possible," Fang Xia said. "From the first layer of Qi Sea to the sixth, there are no obstacles. It's purely the accumulation of true essence and magical power."
"You are already quite old."
"So, be sure to cultivate magical power as quickly as possible, or else, you won't have any hope of reaching the Golden Core Realm in this lifetime," Fang Xia said.
"Yes," Bu Yu and Huan Jian respectfully replied.
Under Fang Xia's guidance, they had already learned a lot about cultivation knowledge, understanding the key points of each level of the Qi Sea.
"You can go down first," Fang Xia said. "I still have something to discuss with Wu Yuan."
Bu Yu and Huan Jian bowed.
They quickly left.
These days, they had rebuilt a courtyard on Yunshan, all close to the entrance of the cave.
In the jade room, only Fang Xia and Wu Yuan remained.
"Young Master," Fang Xia's smile immediately changed. "Leaving Young Master alone, I want to ask Young Master, how far have you progressed in the transformation of your body?"
"Single-arm punch force, 620,000 pounds!" Wu Yuan didn't hide anything.
These days.
Under the dual effects of the witch patterns and the blood-red mist, his physical fitness had been soaring, never ceasing.
"620,000 pounds?" A hint of shock flashed in Fang Xia's eyes. "Young Master, you haven't truly started 'Refining the Filthy Marrow,' have you?"
"No." Wu Yuan shook his head.
Fang Xia fell into silence.
After a while.
"Young Master," Fang Xia suddenly shook his head and sighed, "The witch patterns you have condensed are probably of the legendary top-tier."
"Hmm?" Wu Yuan's pupils slightly contracted.
His guess was spot on!
"Young Master, you don't have to say anything. I shouldn't have asked about these things, but I guessed just from the progress of Young Master's physical qualities alone."
"Once Young Master practices 'Refining the Filthy Marrow,' your basic punch force will probably soar to several million pounds."
"Once you open the Divine Palace..."
Fang Xia shook his head and said, "Body refiners, Qi cultivators, there is no distinction in strength, only differences in foundation."
"If it's a normal ninth-grade witch pattern, once it becomes a Witch Adept, usually with the aid of witch power, the overall force outbreak is just over two million pounds," Fang Xia said.
"So weak?" Wu Yuan frowned slightly.
His current body, with single-arm punch force exceeding 620,000 pounds, would reach two million pounds once he unleashed the third-layer force extreme and combined it with the power of heaven and earth.
"Don't think it's weak." Fang Xia smiled, "Like a ninth-grade Immortal Foundation, just becoming a Qi cultivator, the physical strength is weak, but the true essence is strong, and the overall outbreak is also over two million pounds."
Wu Yuan listened.
"If Young Master truly has a third-grade witch pattern," Fang Xia said, "Once you become a body refiner, even at the First Stage of Profound Harmony, just in terms of body and magical power, you would be comparable to a Qi cultivator at the Seventh Layer of Qi Sea and the Seventh Layer of Profound Harmony with a ninth-grade foundation."
"Among cultivators of the same realm."
"With one grade lower foundation, you need to cultivate one level higher to compensate."
"And crossing a major realm, with the same foundation, it's like having a six-level difference in a minor realm," Fang Xia sighed, "Young Master's third-grade witch pattern, cultivating to the Ninth Stage of Profound Harmony, is enough to rival a Golden Core First Stage cultivator with a ninth-grade Immortal Foundation!"
Wu Yuan nodded gently.
This knowledge was also available in the immortal records, but Fang Xia guessed one thing wrong; he had a second-grade witch pattern.
This is the terror of a strong foundation.
If it were a legendary first-grade witch pattern, just stepping into the Profound Harmony realm, the First Stage of Profound Harmony would be enough to rival the weakest Ninth Stage of Profound Harmony and Ninth Layer of Qi Sea.
"Young Master, I agreed to the ceasefire agreement with the Great Jin Dynasty because I want to wait for Young Master's breakthrough," Fang Xia smiled, "Once Young Master breaks through, with a bit more cultivation, your strength will be enough to match those high-level Qi cultivators."
"In the Central Land continent, Qi cultivators don't have very powerful techniques. From my observation, they mostly have foundations of the Third Grade or lower."
Wu Yuan nodded involuntarily.
Unless there was a significant difference in realm, it was challenging to judge a person's foundation and realm at a glance without prior knowledge.
One could only vaguely sense the vitality and the strength of magical power.
This was why many Celestial Ranking experts thought Fang Xia was at the 'Seventh Layer of Qi Sea.'
Fang Xia was a Sixth Grade witch pattern, although only at the Eighth Layer of Qi Sea, in terms of magical power, he was enough to compete with a Ninth Layer of Qi Sea with a seventh-grade Immortal Foundation.
On the Central Land continent, being able to forge a seventh-grade Immortal Foundation was probably considered exceptional.
External environment, cultivation techniques, and foundational artifacts would all affect the strength of the foundation.
"Young Master, your body is undergoing a drastic transformation."
"During this time, I'm afraid your divine soul has become more formidable," Fang Xia said with a hint of anticipation in his eyes.
Wu Yuan nodded vaguely, not explicitly stating it.
Some things should be discussed with Fang Xia.
However, regarding the secret of the 'Black Tower,' Wu Yuan would instinctively keep it hidden.
The Black Tower was too mysterious.
Unless it was absolutely necessary, Wu Yuan wouldn't tell anyone.
"Young Master, your public identity is Wu Yuan, and your hidden identity is 'Dark Blade,'" Fang Xia said. "But neither of these identities should be exposed in the Central Land Immortal Palace."
"Therefore, according to my plan, Young Master, this time when you enter the Central Land Immortal Palace, you won't use either of these two identities."
"You need to adopt a new identity."
"And this identity has to shock all sides, making various forces think twice before harboring any ill intentions towards our Hengyun Sect."
"Oh?" Wu Yuan was curious.
"Just wait and see, Young Master."
Fang Xia took the information about the 'Central Land Immortal Palace' from Wu Yuan's hand and said with a smile, "I came up with this idea when I saw this thing."
Wu Yuan couldn't help but look down.
"Palace Seal Ranking: Once a holder of the Palace Jade enters the Immortal Palace, they can leave a soul imprint in the Immortal Palace... The Palace Seal, that is the Celestial Ranking!"
"Celestial Ranking?" Wu Yuan was puzzled.
He had just read this passage and only then learned that the legendary 'Celestial Ranking' was not established by the Star Tower, but by the 'God Seal' inside the Central Land Immortal Palace.
However, he only skimmed through it and didn't pay much attention.
As Wu Yuan's thoughts turned, after a little thought, he understood Fang Xia's idea and couldn't help but smile, "Old Fang, this method is good."
"If it can really be done."
"I'm afraid the various forces in the world will all assume that our Hengyun Sect has two great cultivators," Wu Yuan smiled.
"Hehe."
"In this way, it will completely deter the Great Jin and other forces, giving the Young Master ample time to cultivate slowly," Fang Xia smiled, "My Hengyun Sect can also get some rest."
"Train disciples, train the army, and when the time is right, launch the campaign to reclaim Chuzhou."
"Yeah." Wu Yuan nodded and then smiled again, "However, it doesn't necessarily have to be a new identity; I have quite a few aliases in my hands."
This time, Fang Xia was stunned.
Alias? What's that?
...
Time passed.
The Great Jin Dynasty took the initiative to withdraw from the six prefectures of Jiangxi, and even the Eastern Dream and Western Dream prefectures, which had been in separatism for hundreds of years, completely submitted to Hengyun Sect.
By now.
In just two months, Hengyun Sect had unified Jiangzhou!
News spread, shaking the entire world.
Countless warriors discussed among themselves.
No one had expected that the originally shaky 'Hengyun Sect' would suddenly rise to become a 'giant' standing at the center of the world.
However, discussions abounded.
True transcendent experts, who surpassed the mundane, after receiving the news of the Great Jin ceding territory, were not surprised.
This was the norm.
The Celestial Ranking governed the world, and the changes in the thirteen provinces and the changes of dynasties were seemingly the results of countless ordinary soldiers fighting and sacrificing blood.
In reality, those were just appearances.
The Celestial Ranking was the ultimate force in the world, and their life and death, victory and defeat, determined everything.
Shortly after the Great Jin Dynasty ceded the six prefectures.
A piece of news spread from the Martial Ancestor realm to every corner of the world in an instant, and almost every Celestial Ranking expert received it for the first time.
...Yanzhou, Divine Bull Mountain
"The Central Land Immortal Palace is opening?" The leader of the Seven Stars Tower, 'Niu Hao,' who was sitting in a cave practicing bitterly, looked at the information transmitted by the Palace Jade in his hand and revealed a smile.
"Interesting."
"Go to the Immortal Palace Seal location to test it and see if it can surpass Jin Quan."
...
Wanxing Tower.
"The Central Land Immortal Palace is opening?" Several Celestial Ranking experts of the Wanxing Tower gathered together, discussing whether they should go when the time comes.
"Wanxing Daoist has already sent a message; he won't go."
"Let's go and see what news the Martial Ancestor has."
...
In the distant South Sea, vast and boundless, measured in 'thousands of miles,' countless islands were scattered throughout, numbering in the 'tens of thousands.' The tens of thousands of islands in the South Sea varied in size.
Larger ones, like Qiongzhou, spanned nearly ten thousand miles.
These numerous islands naturally nurtured a large population, especially in the last millennium, as people from the Central Land migrated southward, rapidly flourishing martial arts in the South Sea.
There were numerous martial arts experts.
In addition to humans, the vast sea nurtured a large number of 'yao' creatures—countless small yao, numerous large yao, and even 'Heavenly Yao'!
Heavenly Yao, creatures comparable to human Celestial Ranking experts.
However, in the eyes of humans, countless yao creatures were all more or less the same.
But for yao creatures, other races of yao creatures were not much different from humans.
Therefore.
In the vast South Sea, human sects and nations fought against each other, humans fought against yao creatures, and yao creatures fought against each other!
Today, in the far reaches of the South Sea, thousands of miles away from Minzhou, there was a huge crystal palace.
This was the realm of the yao.
It was home to tens of thousands of aquatic yao creatures.
In the center of the crystal palace.
"The Central Land Immortal Palace?"
Here, water flowed, and a large blue-scaled dragon, resembling a small hill, lounged around, playing with the 'Palace Jade' in its hand. "November 10th?"
"How interesting. Haha, to meet Old Black in Wasteland Province, you'd have to travel tens of thousands of miles. But if we simultaneously enter the Central Land Immortal Palace, we can communicate with each other as if face-to-face, even if we are separated by tens of thousands of miles."
"It's a pity."
"The Martial Ancestor's people are too stingy; it opens only once every ten years. This sudden opening must mean something."
"Human race is truly the favored child of heaven and earth."
"How many years has it been? Their Qi Refiners are increasing. According to the records in the Dragon Cave, I'm afraid that in another two hundred or so years, there will be Nascent Soul realm cultivators born."
"The revival of the Immortal Dao civilization... Alas, how do I reach the 'Spiritual Body Realm'!"
"I'm not much younger than Old Black."
"Well, let's take a nap. By the time I wake up, it will be time for the Immortal Palace to open." The large blue-scaled dragon rolled its massive body, putting away the Palace Jade.
Closed its giant dragon eyes.
...
Days passed.
With the complete unification of Jiangzhou by Hengyun Sect and the end of the great war with Great Jin, the previously somewhat turbulent situation in the Central Plains quieted down completely.
In the blink of an eye, it was November 10th.
In the underground of Yunkun Mountain, inside the jade room, Fang Xia, Wu Yuan, Huan Jian, and Bu Yu gathered.
"Do you all remember the precautions?" Fang Xia swept his gaze over the three.
"We remember."
Huan Jian nodded and said, "The Dark Blade is in quiet cultivation. Those entering the Central Land Immortal Palace this time are the 'elders' who returned from overseas with Patriarch Fang Xia."
"Master, will the Patriarch be exposed?" Bu Yu couldn't help but ask.
"Wait, and you will naturally find out," Fang Xia said with an air of mystery.
Beside him, Wu Yuan smiled.
Suddenly.
"Buzz~" The 'Palace Jade' in front of the four people suddenly emitted a radiant light, and faint images appeared, appearing quite mystical.
"We have all acknowledged the master."
"The Central Land Immortal Palace has been opened," Fang Xia said. "Focus your minds and send your divine senses into it to enter the Immortal Palace."
Swish!
Beside Fang Xia, another Fang Xia appeared, who was his 'Divine Clone Gu.'
The Divine Clone Fang Xia sat cross-legged on the jade platform under the golden light ball, presiding over the formation.
When entering the Central Land Immortal Palace, the consciousness and divine senses would be significantly reduced in their perception of the outside world, making them more susceptible to attacks.
"Enter!"
The four simultaneously concentrated their divine senses and entered the Palace Jade.
...
Thousands of miles away in Wuzhou.
Inside the highest temple of the Martial Ancestor.
A huge purple light ball was emitting light.
Several figures emanating powerful auras stood in the temple, sensing the information transmitted by the purple light ball.
Leading them was none other than the East Pangu Emperor wearing black armor.
Suddenly.
"Jiangzhou, Yunkun Prefecture area, four Palace Jades activated!" A cold and mechanized voice came from the purple light ball.
"Four?"
"Hengyun Sect really has four Celestial Ranking experts?" Several Celestial Ranking experts of the Martial Ancestor looked at each other, somewhat incredulous.
"Last time, Fang Xia asked me for five Immortal Jades, saying that Hengyun Sect has five Celestial Ranking experts. I thought he was joking," murmured the East Pangu Emperor. "I didn't expect it to be true."
In the past, Hengyun Sect was just a pawn of the Star Pavilion.
Martial Ancestors never paid much attention to it.
In the blink of an eye, four or five Celestial Ranking experts had emerged?
Suddenly.
"Warning, suspected Nascent Soul cultivator entering the Immortal Palace! Warning, suspected Nascent Soul cultivator entering the Immortal Palace!" The cold and mechanical voice suddenly became urgent. "Target originates from Jiangzhou, Yunkun Prefecture!"
"Reminding again, warning, suspected..."
The voice continued to sound.
The Celestial Ranking experts of the Martial Ancestor were dumbfounded. Suspected Nascent Soul cultivator from Hengyun Sect?
"Hengyun Sect? Nascent Soul cultivator?" The East Pangu Emperor was also shocked, then said in a low voice, "Immediately, enter the Immortal Palace."
"Meet the Celestial Ranking experts of Hengyun Sect."
...
Wu Yuan felt a slight dizziness as his consciousness entered the Palace Jade, followed by darkness.
Suddenly, everything in front of him became bright!
It was a pure white palace.
A figure in white robes appeared out of thin air; it was naturally Wu Yuan.
"Consciousness projection, separated by tens of thousands of miles, the simulation level is no less than the Elemental Universe, no, even more real!" Wu Yuan slightly sensed, his gaze sweeping around.
A very spacious palace.
Very simple!
In front of him was only a jade platform, and in the palace were twelve huge divine pillars, carved with jade, surrounded by mist, like a fairyland!
On Earth, it was rare to see such a magnificent palace.
"The Central Land Immortal Palace is indeed a virtual realm. From the perception alone, it is at least an 'Eighth-grade Virtual Realm,' more realistic and more straightforward to use than the 'Elemental Universe,'" Wu Yuan thought.
The Virtual Realm is divided into nine grades.
Legend has it that at the sixth-grade Virtual Realm, it can almost match reality in most aspects, becoming more magical as it goes higher.
Suddenly.
"Respected Celestial Ranking expert." A cold and indifferent voice suddenly sounded in the palace. "This is your first time entering the Central Land Immortal Palace. You can name yourself; it is recommended to use your real name."
"At the same time, confirm the 'outward appearance' you desire."
"As long as you imagine with your divine sense, your appearance will change to what you want. Remember, confirming your appearance is only a one-time opportunity, and it is also recommended to use your 'real appearance.'"
Swish~ Countless light points converged, and a mirror appeared in front of Wu Yuan on its own.
Presenting Wu Yuan's current appearance.
"Totally unlike me." Wu Yuan looked at himself in the mirror. "Right, the Palace Jade can only confirm divine sense and cannot scan appearances."
For cultivators, the divine soul is the only constant.
Appearance? Can change at any time.
"This scene." Wu Yuan smiled suddenly.
How similar is it to his past life, when he first entered the 'Stellar Network' in the Elemental Universe and other virtual games?
"However, just imagining and being able to confirm appearance? It's even more magical than the Elemental Universe." Wu Yuan smiled.
He moved his mind.
Quickly!
The original figure in white robes rapidly changed, finally presenting to Wu Yuan's sight a tall figure enveloped in a black robe.
Only a pair of eyes were exposed, giving off a cold aura.
"Is the appearance confirmed?"
"Confirmed!"
"May I ask for the name?"
"Wan Liu!" Wu Yuan uttered two words.
(End of this chapter)
Chapter 143: First on the Heavenly Ranking (Seeking Monthly Votes)
The identity Wu Yuan intended to use was the one he had used on Mount Tiandao before, the alias 'Wan Liu.'
Used only once.
At that time, on Mount Tiandao, Wu Yuan deliberately stated, "In the Great Jin, apart from the Emperor of Jin, no one else has the qualifications to discuss Dao with me."
This caused quite a stir and even piqued the curiosity of major forces across the world.
Unexpectedly, in the blink of an eye, he was using this identity again!
"Respected Wan Liu."
The cold mechanical voice resonated again in the palace, "The Central Earth Immortal Palace now only opens three places: the Personal Palace, the God Seal Palace, and the Conference Palace."
"Information about these three palaces, as well as the usage and precautions of the entire Central Earth Immortal Palace, are all presented in the jade book in front of you."
"Please read it."
Swish~ Countless light points converged, forming a thin and translucent jade-like booklet in front of Wu Yuan.
"It's really beautiful," Wu Yuan couldn't help but admire.
Celestial methods!
Only in such a divine virtual realm, similar to the Elemental Universe, could such methods be formed at will.
After all, virtual things are not physical, so the more colorful, the more beautiful.
"Jade book?" Wu Yuan reached out and opened the floating jade-like booklet.
Swish~ Countless illusory and crystal-clear characters flew out of the booklet, forming a virtual light curtain in front of Wu Yuan. The light curtain displayed a large amount of text written in the script of the Central Earth Civilization.
"Respected Heavenly Ranking expert Wan Liu, first of all, welcome to the Central Earth Immortal Palace."
"The Central Earth Immortal Palace, essentially opened by the Martial Emperor, aims to establish an open, fair, and just platform for information exchange among the Heavenly Ranking experts of the thirteen provinces of Central Earth and overseas. In critical moments, it can connect the Heavenly Rankings of the entire Central Earth to maintain the overall safety."
"Every strong person entering the Central Earth Immortal Palace has the same physical qualities, possessing the strength and speed of a first-grade warrior. Physical strength cannot enter the divine virtual realm."
"Only the divine soul and divine sense! Everyone's consciousness is unique, so there is the 'God Seal Palace.'"
"Heavenly Ranking experts from all over the world are difficult to gather in one place, and long-distance communication is quite difficult. In addition, real battles easily lead to casualties. Therefore, using divine sense to condense into a seal, colliding to determine strength and weakness, forms the 'God Seal Ranking,' also known as the 'Heavenly Ranking.'"
"A strong divine soul leads to rapid progress in cultivating magical powers, spells, and enlightenment. Their strength is usually very strong, making it the simplest and most effective ranking method to seek non-injury."
"The Personal Palace is an exclusive palace for each Heavenly Ranking expert in the Central Earth Immortal Palace, and no one else can enter."
"The God Seal Palace determines the ranking of the Heavenly Ranking experts using divine soul."
"The Conference Palace is for communication between all Heavenly Ranking experts in Central Earth."
"As the revival of the Dao civilization, we hope that the fifteen provinces of Central Earth, whether human or demonic beings, unite and ensure the everlasting inheritance of the Central Earth civilization."
A brief introduction.
It explained the origin and function of the entire Central Earth Immortal Palace, pointing out the founder, the Martial Emperor's aspiration—unity in Central Earth.
"Martial Emperor!"
"Indeed, he is the ancestor of humanity." Wu Yuan secretly sighed, re-establishing civilization from the ruins of a wilderness.
Achievements beyond measure.
He, also the first recorded Heavenly Ranking expert in Central Earth civilization to date.
"According to records, the Martial Emperor was once destroyed, but it was later rebuilt. This Central Earth Immortal Palace has not been lost?" Wu Yuan pondered, "Even if the Great Jin really unifies the world, it is unlikely to destroy the Martial Emperor."
For thousands of years, the Martial Ancestor has always occupied Wuzhou.
Never expanded.
As the inheritance of the Martial King, almost no force on the Central Continent is willing to provoke the Martial Ancestor. Even some celestial demons admire the Martial King.
"Let's go, take a look outside." Wu Yuan moved his body.
The illusory physical body, manipulated solely by consciousness.
It had been a long time since Wu Yuan had done this, and he was a bit unfamiliar at first.
"Let's go!"
Wu Yuan walked straight out of the personal palace hall. In the instant he stepped out of the palace door, without pushing, it was like a dreamy light and shadow.
"Whoosh~" Wu Yuan had already arrived outside the personal palace.
"So spacious!"
Wu Yuan was slightly surprised. In front of him was a vast square, probably over a thousand meters long. The entire square was paved with crystal-clear jade stones, incredibly dreamy.
The entire jade stone square floated in mid-air, with an endless sea of clouds below and an endless bright sky above.
In three directions of the Jade Room Square, there were purple chains connecting identical floating palaces.
Mist lingered.
Worthy of the name Immortal Palace!
"My personal palace?" Wu Yuan looked back at the palace about ten meters away and instantly understood.
His gaze swept over the three directions of the square, judging the number of personal palaces in each direction.
Sixty-seven!
"So, there are a total of sixty-seven Heavenly Ranking experts in the world?" Wu Yuan thought to himself.
This number was lower than he had imagined.
However, Wu Yuan understood that this might not be accurate.
For example, the Martial Ancestor did not necessarily know about every Heavenly Ranking expert.
For example, some Heavenly Ranking experts might not want to enter the Central Earth Immortal Palace.
For example, the personal palaces of fallen Heavenly Ranking experts, would they disappear?
Suddenly.
Whoosh! A figure in a golden robe flashed out from a nearby palace and stood not far from Wu Yuan.
"Old Fang." Wu Yuan's voice was hoarse, and when he looked at the other party, he received the corresponding information.
Name: Fang Xia!
In the Central Earth Immortal Palace, as long as one's gaze fell on the other party, they would receive the other party's name information.
Moreover, Fang Xia did not change his appearance.
"Old Wan." Fang Xia also grinned.
They had long agreed on the titles they would use in the Central Earth Immortal Palace. After all, no one knew if the Martial Ancestor could secretly monitor them.
Swoosh! Swoosh! Two more streaks of light flashed by.
It was Huan Jian and Bu Yu, whose appearance and attire had barely changed.
"Ancestor, Senior Wan." Huan Jian and Bu Yu both bowed and saluted to Fang Xia and Wu Yuan, showing a respectful attitude.
Acting, the whole set.
The four gathered together.
"According to the intelligence from the Seven Stars Tower, there are records of more than sixty Heavenly Rankings, and here are more than sixty palaces." Fang Xia pointed to the surrounding palaces. "I wonder how many Heavenly Ranking experts there are in Central Earth."
Several people were a bit curious.
"Take your time to understand." Wu Yuan smiled. "Gradually, Hengyun Sect will accumulate relevant intelligence."
Intelligence is accumulated gradually.
In the past, Hengyun Sect had no capital to get involved in the level of Heavenly Ranking experts, naturally, there was no accumulation of any kind.
Suddenly.
Buzz~ Buzz~ Buzz~ Countless white light spots gathered and, in front of Wu Yuan and the others, three figures appeared out of thin air.
The leader was a domineering man in black armor.
It was Emperor Dongpan.
"Fang Xiaoyou, welcome to the Immortal Palace." Emperor Dongpan smiled and glanced at the side. "Friend Buyu? Friend Huanjian? I never thought that you both would enter the Heavenly Ranking. Congratulations."
"Friend Dongpan is too kind." Fang Xia smiled.
Buyu and Huanjian, on the other hand, were more restrained. They were well aware of the identity of the person in front of them, Emperor Dongpan, one of the top cultivators in the Central Earth.
Emperor Dongpan's gaze finally fell on Wu Yuan, and he slightly bowed, saying, "Dongpan, I've seen Senior Wanliu."
"Wu Nonghan, I've seen Senior Wanliu!"
"Dong Guangbo, I've seen Senior Wanliu." The two Martial Ancestor Heavenly Ranking experts who came with him also bowed and saluted.
This scene.
Fang Xia's eyes flashed with a hint of surprise. Emperor Dongpan actually referred to Wu Yuan as a senior? Treating him as a junior?
It should be noted that the Central Earth Immortal Palace is controlled by Martial Ancestors, which means that Martial Ancestors can probably perceive the strength of Wu Yuan's divine sense through the 'Palace Jade.'
However, Emperor Dongpan is at the 'Ninefold Qi Sea' level.
To make him address Wu Yuan as a senior, he must be at least a Golden Core cultivator!
"The young master's divine sense is much stronger than I imagined?" Fang Xia was secretly amazed. "Has it reached the Golden Core level?"
A divine sense radius of five hundred meters is a requirement for reaching the Golden Core. However, a true Golden Core cultivator, once they break through, their spiritual consciousness nurtured by the Golden Core would significantly increase, at least able to sense a radius of ten li.
If Fang Xia was just surprised.
On the other hand, Huan Jian and Buyu, though calm on the surface, had already set off a stormy sea in their hearts.
The scene before them shattered their preconceptions.
The universally recognized top figure in the world, 'Emperor Dongpan,' unexpectedly referred to Wu Yuan as a 'senior,' making them confused.
However, they wouldn't think that Emperor Dongpan was acting foolishly.
There must be a reason.
"Are you Emperor Dongpan?"
Wu Yuan, enveloped in a black robe, with cold eyes, looked down at Emperor Dongpan. "I returned to Central Earth just a year ago and heard about you. Old Fang also mentioned you to me."
"I have also heard that Senior appeared in 'Tian Dao Mountain'." Emperor Dongpan smiled respectfully.
Seeing Wu Yuan's posture.
Observing the confident expressions of Fang Xia, Huan Jian, and others, his guess was further confirmed.
Wan Liu, he must be an old monster who returned from overseas!
Even if he was not a Golden Core cultivator.
His spiritual consciousness could rival that of a Golden Core cultivator, and his strength compared to Fang Xia was probably only stronger and not weaker.
"Well." Wu Yuan nodded slightly but said no more.
An appearance of 'keep away if you're a stranger.'
More talk, more mistakes.
It's better not to say.
"Friend Dongpan, Senior Wanliu doesn't like to talk much."
Fang Xia took the lead in speaking, smiling, "This time entering the Immortal Palace, I had to persuade him several times before he agreed to come in for a look."
"It is an honor for Senior Wanliu to come to the Immortal Palace," Emperor Dongpan smiled.
"This Divine Illusion Realm is not bad," Wu Yuan suddenly spoke, indifferent. "It's not the worst ninth-grade Divine Illusion Realm, is it the eighth grade? Or the seventh grade?"
"Unfortunately."
Wu Yuan shook his head, saying, "Like collection exchange, refining simulation, alchemy simulation, battle, and so on, you all failed to make use of them. If you could utilize them, the Heavenly Ranking in the Central Earth could at least double, and the level of alchemy and artifact refinement would be greatly improved. You only use it for simple communication?"
"What a waste." Wu Yuan was quite disdainful.
His words made Huan Jian and Buyu listen in confusion.
Even Fang Xia was somewhat puzzled. Although he had received the inheritance, he didn't know much about these common cultivation matters.
However, these words fell into the ears of Emperor Dongpan, Wu Nonghan, and others, like a needle hitting the bullseye.
It made their hearts jump!
Their only shred of suspicion completely disappeared.
They firmly believed that the person before them, Wan Liu, was a 'senior expert' from overseas.
"Forgive me for my disrespect, Friend Dongpan," Emperor Dongpan's attitude lowered even further, smiling bitterly. "This Divine Illusion Realm consumes too much energy, and with the damage to its origin, it can only be maintained at the bare minimum."
He didn't dare to show the slightest disrespect.
"Dongpan, rest assured."
Wu Yuan's eyes were cold. "I'm not very interested in this level of Divine Illusion Realm. This time back to Central Earth was also an invitation from Old Fang to support his sect, and incidentally, to wipe out some shortsighted fellows."
Emperor Dongpan and the others felt increasingly frightened.
They had now pictured the image of 'Wanliu': a 'senior expert' who roamed overseas all year round, without any attachments. This time, he returned to Central Earth to help Fang Xia revive Hengyun Sect, his life-and-death friend...
Heavens! The position of Hengyun Sect in the hearts of Emperor Dongpan and others rapidly soared.
Handling just one person like Fang Xia was already difficult.
Now, there was also a mysterious Wan Liu, not to mention several newly promoted Heavenly Ranking experts?
Their foundation was already very profound.
"Haha, Senior Wanliu is joking. With a senior like you presiding, who would dare to harm Hengyun Sect?" Emperor Dongpan laughed.
They continued chatting.
Wu Yuan resumed his 'aloof' appearance, mainly leaving Fang Xia and Emperor Dongpan to converse.
Time passed.
Swoosh! Swoosh! Heavenly Ranking experts appeared from their respective palaces, each person with different attire and demeanor.
However, their identities could be judged from the information on each person's name.
Wu Yuan saw many acquaintances.
Powerful figures such as Beijie Wang, Zhao Xing, Haifeizhang, and Jin Ji, as well as some Heavenly Ranking experts with relatively weaker strength.
It should be noted that the last time Heavenly Ranking experts who came to observe the battle on Yunshan numbered around forty, which was quite a lot.
However, that time, it was Wu Yuan and Buyu who saw them.
These Heavenly Ranking experts did not see Wu Yuan and the others that time.
In addition to many human Heavenly Ranking experts, Wu Yuan also saw several strong individuals in the form of 'monster beasts,' complemented by their names.
"King Qionghai?" Wu Yuan's gaze swept over the azure dragon-like creature.
Qionghai King, the overlord of the South Sea, universally recognized as the most powerful 'celestial demon' in the world, is also acknowledged as the king of the sea region.
In the water, Qionghai King is invincible; even cultivators of the Qi Sea Ninth Realm can only flee in dismay.
"Black Snake King?" Wu Yuan spotted the enormous black serpent.
The Black Snake King is the 'divine beast' of the Great Jin imperial family, suspected to possess advanced Qi Sea strength and considered the spirit beast of the Jin Emperor.
"Niu Hao!"
Wu Yuan also saw the leader of the Seven Star Tower, a disheveled man with a very powerful aura.
However, not every great cultivator appeared.
Figures like Huang Shen, Wanxing Dao Ren, Jin Emperor Jin Quan, and Rong Le, the leader of the Nine Kill Mansion—these 'Qi Sea Ninth Realm' great cultivators, did not make an appearance.
In reality, Wu Yuan, Fang Xia, and Buyu were observing other Heavenly Ranking experts.
Simultaneously, other Heavenly Ranking experts were observing them.
With four new faces suddenly appearing, and hosts like Emperor Dongpan and Wu Nonghan being so courteous, who wouldn't be curious?
"Buyu! Huan Jian! The two Earth Ranking Grandmasters of Hengyun Sect have both become Heavenly Ranking? Fang Xia is truly formidable."
"Hengyun Sect has three Heavenly Rankings all at once?"
"Buyu and Huan Jian are nothing; their auras are very weak, probably just at the First Level of the Qi Sea or possibly quasi-Heavenly Ranking. The key is the person in the black robe."
"Exactly!"
"His aura is so strong, Wan Liu? I've never heard of him!"
"I remember, he seems to have appeared in Great Jin."
"He's not on good terms with Great Jin!"
"His aura is terrifying. Fang Xia and Emperor Dongpan both seem weaker to me."
"Who is this Wan Liu? What's his background?" Many Heavenly Ranking experts whispered to each other.
Most of the attention was on Wu Yuan.
Fang Xia? They knew he was formidable.
Wan Liu? They hadn't seen him before; he was mysterious.
Even though Wu Yuan didn't deliberately exert his full power, his spiritual sense couldn't be faked, and the emitted aura was still exceptionally strong!
Major cultivators like Beijie Wang, Niu Hao, Zhao Xing, Black Snake King, Old Dragon King, Qionghai King, and others paid special attention to Wu Yuan.
Standing at the pinnacle of Central Earth, they instinctively remained vigilant towards others of the same level.
However, following tradition, Emperor Dongpan did not introduce the 'newcomers,' and no one took the initiative to approach.
Gradually, the gathering of Heavenly Ranking experts on the jade platform exceeded sixty (including celestial demons).
For a while, no new Heavenly Ranking experts appeared.
"Seniors, Friend Fang Xia." Emperor Dongpan whispered, "According to tradition, you need to introduce yourselves and leave your names in the God Seal Hall."
"No problem." Fang Xia smiled. "Old Wan won't mind."
Emperor Dongpan nodded.
He didn't want to provoke this unfathomable old monster.
"Dear friends!"
Emperor Dongpan suddenly raised his voice, echoing across the entire Jade Hall Square, causing all the Heavenly Ranking experts who were discussing to stop and turn their attention.
"This time, the opening of the Central Earth Immortal Palace."
"For two reasons!"
"The first reason is to introduce several rising talents from Hengyun Sect." Emperor Dongpan said solemnly, "Friend Fang Xia, who has cultivated for more than two hundred years, is already a Qi Sea Ninth Realm cultivator. His fame spread far and wide after the battle at Yunsan, and I won't go into details. In terms of strength, he is at least in the top three in the world!"
Many Heavenly Ranking experts listened silently.
"Friend Buyu, Friend Huan Jian are also outstanding individuals, newly promoted to the Heavenly Ranking." Emperor Dongpan introduced briefly.
"Finally, this one!"
"Is the 'Elder Wan Liu' who returned from overseas, with formidable strength surpassing mine, and he is friends with Friend Fang Xia." Emperor Dongpan said solemnly, "Elder Wan Liu is now the 'Honorary Guest' of Hengyun Sect."
A moment of silence!
On the square, all the Heavenly Ranking experts stared in shock at Wu Yuan, including those Qi Sea high-level cultivators, who showed a serious expression.
Emperor Dongpan is a great cultivator who shakes the world.
To make him address someone as 'Elder'—what kind of person could that be?
Figures like Jin Ji, Zhao Xing, Hai Feizhang, and others exchanged glances, a hint of vigilance flashing in their eyes. Honorary Guest of Hengyun Sect?
"Elder Wan, Friend Fang Xia," Emperor Dongpan respectfully said, "according to the tradition of the Central Earth Immortal Palace, you need to leave your mark in the God Seal Hall. Please accompany me there."
"Haha, sure." Fang Xia laughed.
Wu Yuan's eyes remained cold, and he didn't respond at all.
"Dear friends," Emperor Dongpan shouted again, "those interested can go to the God Seal Hall to observe the ceremony. Those uninterested can go directly to the conference hall."
Soon after.
Whoosh! Emperor Dongpan led the way, with Wu Yuan and Fang Xia following, and Buyu and Huan Jian trailing behind.
As for the Heavenly Ranking experts on the square?
Without exception, all of them followed.
Everyone was curious; who was Wan Liu, addressed as 'Elder' by Emperor Dongpan and ranked first?
On three sides of the jade square were individual palaces, and on the other side were two large palaces—the God Seal Hall and the Conference Hall.
Soon, inside the God Seal Hall.
More than sixty Heavenly Ranking experts gathered together. Besides Emperor Dongpan and other Martial Ancestor Heavenly Ranking experts, Wu Yuan, Fang Xia, and the others stood at the forefront.
The remaining observers from the Heavenly Ranking were arranged to both sides according to their strength, with the Qi Sea Ninth Realm cultivators like Beijie Wang, Zhao Xing, standing at the front. The distinction was clear.
"Elder Wan, Friend Fang Xia, this is the God Seal ranking, and it is also the ranking of the Heavenly Ranking in Central Earth!" Emperor Dongpan said, "The Heavenly Ranking does not represent the ranking of combat strength, only for reference."
He pointed towards the end of the hall.
Whoosh!
On the huge wall at the end, a light screen appeared, displaying the ranking of the Heavenly Ranking:
First, Wanxing Dao Ren
Second, Jin Quan
Third, Qionghai King
Fourth, Huang Shen
Fifth, Emperor Dongpan
Sixth, Niu Hao
Seventh, Zhao Xing
Eighth, Rong Le
Ninth, King of the Extreme North
Tenth, Hai Feizhang
Eleventh, Black Snake
Twelfth, Dong Qian
Thirteenth, Mountain Demon King
Fourteenth, Black Jiao
Fifteenth: Liu Junxing
Sixteenth: Jin Ji
...
A total of more than seventy names, including those like Zhao Yi and Hai Jian, who had already been killed, still retained their positions in the rankings.
Clearly, the Heavenly Ranking was updated during the last opening of the Central Earth Immortal Palace and does not represent the current capabilities of many Heavenly Ranking experts.
In addition, each name is followed by a large seal marking.
"Friend Fang Xia, Elder Wan, it's quite simple," Emperor Dongpan smiled, "Focus your mind, let your gaze fall on the light screen. By colliding with the 'Divine Seal' left by the previous Heavenly Ranking, you can form your ranking."
In reality, all Heavenly Rankings are incarnations of divine thoughts.
Martial Ancestors can directly generate the 'Heavenly Ranking' themselves.
However, Martial Ancestors do not want these Heavenly Rankings to know the magic of the 'Divine Void Realm,' so they created this superficial technique.
"Buyu, you give it a try first," Fang Xia smiled.
"Yes."
Buyu stepped forward to try. Her gaze landed on the light screen at the end of the hall, and her name quickly appeared on the screen.
Then it was confirmed: Seventy-second, Buyu.
The last one.
"Haha, Buyu just broke through, it's normal," Emperor Dongpan laughed.
Buyu smiled, bowed, and stepped back, not feeling disappointed. Being able to make it onto the Heavenly Ranking was already incredibly rare.
Huan Jian stepped forward.
Soon, the ranking appeared, replacing Buyu's ranking: Seventy-second, Huan Jian.
Buyu dropped to seventy-third directly.
The two of them occupied the last two positions.
The scene made many Heavenly Ranking experts laugh. Although they all understood that being on the Heavenly Ranking meant being at the pinnacle of the Central Continent, being the last two naturally didn't look good.
However, Buyu and Huan Jian were quite indifferent.
"What's so funny?" Fang Xia frowned. He took a step forward, focused his gaze on the light screen, and concentrated!
In an instant.
"Whoosh~" The light screen at the end of the hall trembled slightly, and a new name appeared: Fang Xia
After the name, there was a divine seal.
"Boom~" "Boom~" "Boom!" As if a series of collisions, Fang Xia's name rose rapidly, quickly breaking into the top ten from the lowest position.
And the ascent speed showed no sign of slowing down.
In the end.
After a series of collisions between divine seals, Fang Xia's ranking surpassed Wanxing Dao Ren, Jin Quan, directly reaching the first place!
The laughter from a moment ago abruptly stopped, and all Heavenly Ranking experts stared at the light screen.
First on the Heavenly Ranking?
They all knew Fang Xia's formidable strength, but combat strength did not equal divine soul power. For example, Jin Quan had stronger combat strength, but his divine soul and divine thoughts were weaker than Wanxing Dao Ren.
And Fang Xia was not only strong in combat.
His divine soul was also powerful!
"Old Wan," Fang Xia turned his head and smiled at Wu Yuan, "How about you give it a try?"
Suddenly, everyone's gaze fell on Wu Yuan.
"Heavenly Seal ranking? Heavenly Ranking?" The figure shrouded in the black robe, with a cold voice, said, "Friend Dongpan, you guys are really boring."
Emperor Dongpan's face revealed a hint of embarrassment; he naturally understood Wu Yuan's intention.
"Enough!"
"When guests come, give you face," the figure under the black robe said indifferently, taking a step forward and slightly adjusting the robe.
A pair of icy eyes completely revealed themselves.
Falling on the light screen in the distance.
"Whoosh!" In an instant, the entire light screen's radiance surged, countless lights converging, and a completely new name directly appeared at the top of all rankings:
First, Wan Liu
Without any competition, with just one glance, Wan Liu's name ascended to the top, revealing the enormous gap between him and other Heavenly Ranking experts.
Heavenly Ranking first!
"Truly boring, a waste of time." The figure under the black robe shook his head slightly, "Old Fang, if there's anything, tell me later. I'll leave first."
Swish~
The figure in the black robe turned into countless light points and directly left the Central Earth Immortal Palace.
Facing this scene.
Emperor Dongpan, King of the Extreme North, Niu Hao, Zhao Xing, and other Qi Sea Ninth Layer cultivators, along with Heavenly Ranking experts from all over the world, fell into silence.
In their minds.
At this moment, they all had one thought—how strong is Wan Liu really?
—
ps: Two updates, over ten thousand words, seeking monthly votes! From the day of release until now, there has really been no slack, hoping brothers can vote more!! Tomorrow, I'll become a witcher! Starting the next phase of the plot!
(End of this chapter)
Chapter 144: Desolate Province Demon Abyss
Inside the Central Earth Immortal Palace, in the God Seal Hall.
Over sixty Heavenly Ranking experts were nearly stupefied, gazing at the unexpected scene before them. They hadn't anticipated that Wan Liu would ascend to the top of the Heavenly Ranking and then casually leave, uttering the word 'boring.'
It was beyond their expectations.
After a brief moment.
"Haha, my fellow cultivators."
Emperor Dongpan suddenly burst into laughter, and the laughter reverberated in the palace, capturing everyone's attention. "Senior Wan Liu is an extraordinary figure from outside the world, and he has his own principles in his actions. If he wants to leave, we can't restrict him."
"If any of you wish to communicate with Senior Wan Liu, you can go to Yunshan yourself or contact our fellow cultivators from Hengyun Sect."
"Next."
"For those Heavenly Ranking experts who aspire to engage in 'God Seal Collisions,' you can come forward one by one."
"Half an hour later, we will hold a 'Central Earth Conference' as usual," Emperor Dongpan announced.
Many Heavenly Ranking experts nodded.
Although Senior Wan Liu might look down on the Central Earth Immortal Palace, these Heavenly Ranking experts found it quite valuable.
Suddenly.
"Fellow cultivators, I have something to remind you," Fang Xia suddenly spoke, his voice loud, instantly drawing everyone's gaze.
Emperor Dongpan was momentarily stunned and then smiled, saying, "Fellow cultivator Fang Xia, please go ahead."
"Fellow cultivator Wan Liu possesses extraordinary strength, but he is unwilling to create too much karma. Therefore, he is not very willing to take action," Fang Xia smiled. "Up to now, he has only made a move once. I believe Fellow cultivator Jin Ji has experienced it!"
Swish!
In an instant, everyone's gaze fell on Jin Ji.
"Me? Experienced it?" Jin Ji was momentarily startled, but soon understood. Was it the terrifying confrontation with the Shaking God Technique during the fierce battle with Fang Xia?
Jin Ji's heart shuddered!
After that battle, he had been contemplating why Fang Xia, a Qi Sea Ninth Layer cultivator, could make the Shaking God Technique so formidable.
It turns out it was Wan Liu acting behind the scenes?
"Senior Wan Liu is formidable, and I am inferior," Jin Ji muttered, unwilling to say more.
The more Jin Ji refused to speak, the more curious the Heavenly Ranking experts from various factions became. Moreover, they became increasingly convinced that the Great Jin Empire had probably suffered a big loss at the hands of Wan Liu.
In the minds of these Heavenly Ranking experts.
Wan Liu's image became even more profound and mysterious.
"I don't want any of you to suffer a disaster; that would be a loss for the cultivation world of Central Earth."
Fang Xia calmly said, "Just a reminder for everyone. Our sect disciple 'Wu Yuan' has been recognized by Senior Wan Liu and accepted as a direct disciple. Please, don't provoke any troubles."
A stir arose.
"Wu Yuan, who is that?"
"Never heard of him."
"Wu Yuan? I've heard of him! A martial genius from Hengyun Sect, possessing top-notch strength at just over ten years old."
"I've heard about him too."
"A genius like this being accepted as a disciple by Senior Wan Liu? Well, that's normal." Many Heavenly Ranking experts discussed.
In reality, most of the Heavenly Ranking experts were unaware of Wu Yuan.
Especially those outside the original realm, they knew even less.
Mortals and Qi Cultivators lived in two different worlds.
Mortal warriors, wandering the world, rarely left traces of their Heavenly Ranking, only revealing traces of the Heavenly Ranking behind significant events.
Similarly.
Mortal warriors, no matter how talented, if they didn't reach the Heavenly Ranking, would hardly attract the interest of Heavenly Ranking experts. Most Heavenly Ranking experts simply didn't care.
However!
From today onwards, all Heavenly Ranking experts remembered Wu Yuan's name and added it to the list of 'try not to provoke.'
No other reason.
Wan Liu's only direct disciple.
Once provoked, it would mean offending Wan Liu, who advocated 'a peaceful existence.'
... Half an hour before the 'Central Earth Conference,' many Heavenly Ranking experts began attempting to improve their rankings in the 'God Seal Hall.'
However, some Heavenly Ranking experts temporarily left the Central Earth Immortal Palace.
Many Heavenly Ranking experts also left the God Seal Hall and gathered on the outside plaza.
They engaged in conversations with Fang Xia, Bu Yu, Huan Jian, and others.
There were not lacking powerful cultivators renowned across the world.
The Heavenly Ranking experts who came to seek Fang Xia were the most numerous.
Many Heavenly Ranking experts wanted to get to know Fang Xia, while others sought to be introduced to the mysterious 'Wan Liu' through Fang Xia.
However.
When a disheveled man and a massive dragon with azure scales approached Fang Xia, the other Heavenly Ranking experts tactfully stepped aside.
"King of the Qiong Hai, Brother Niu Hao," Fang Xia smiled.
King of Qiong Hai, the most powerful Heavenly Demon in the world!
Niu Hao, the leader of the Seven-Star Tower.
However, with Fang Xia's strength, he was unafraid, and if anything, he was more wary of the King of Qiong Hai.
In the sea, several Qi Sea Ninth Layer cultivators working together were not a match for the King of Qiong Hai!
Hoo! An invisible barrier shielded the three, making it impossible for other Heavenly Ranking experts to hear their conversation.
This wasn't a special privilege; every member of the Central Earth Immortal Palace could do the same if they wished.
"Niu Hao."
The King of Qiong Hai glanced at Niu Hao, his voice deep. "I'm afraid your goal is the same as mine. You can go ahead and speak."
"Sure."
Niu Hao nodded, looking at Fang Xia. "Fang Xia, my friends and I came here with a simple purpose. We want to ask: Is Senior Wan Liu a Gold Core cultivator?"
The King of Qiong Hai also looked at Fang Xia.
"Hehe." Fang Xia chuckled, pointing to the top of his head, and whispered, "This is the Central Earth Immortal Palace. There are some things that cannot be said."
The King of Qiong Hai and Niu Hao exchanged a glance.
Not a denial?
That means an affirmation!
"Don't hide it, Fellow Fang Xia," the King of Qiong Hai said in a deep voice. "I've been cultivating for over seven hundred years and still haven't found a breakthrough. I believe Brother Niu Hao is facing similar confusion. We hope to visit Senior Wan Liu."
"I hope Senior Wan Liu can offer some guidance," Niu Hao added earnestly.
"Guidance?"
Fang Xia seemed somewhat hesitant, whispering, "I can't promise on this matter. I must first inquire about Senior Wan Liu's thoughts."
"Alright, it's natural to ask." The King of Qiong Hai and Niu Hao both nodded.
Soon after.
Fang Xia dispersed into countless light points, apparently withdrawing his divine consciousness from the Central Earth Immortal Palace.
After a while.
Whoosh! A stream of light shot out from a personal palace, and it was Fang Xia.
He walked up to the King of Qiong Hai and Niu Hao.
"Two fellow cultivators," Fang Xia said, "Senior Wan Liu has said that he can meet with the King of Qiong Hai."
"Niu Hao, you don't need to meet him." Fang Xia said.
King of Qiong Hai showed a pleased expression.
Niu Hao's face looked quite embarrassed, unable to help but say, "Why can the King of Qiong Hai, but not me?"
"Senior Wan Liu is a body-refining cultivator!" Fang Xia shook his head and sighed. "What guidance can he give you when he sees you?"
Niu Hao fell silent.
In the Central Earth, the vast majority of Heavenly Ranking and Heavenly Demon experts were Qi Refiners. However, it did not mean they were ignorant of the difference between Qi Refining and Body Refining.
Nor did it mean there were no Body Refiners.
The King of Qiong Hai belonged to the Body Refining lineage, a great cultivator at the Transcendent Nine Layers.
However, Body Refiners were rare on the Central Earth Continent. Therefore, Heavenly Ranking experts habitually referred to the King of Qiong Hai as 'Qi Sea Nine Layers,' without making a special distinction.
"Senior Wan Liu, is he from the Body Refining lineage?" The King of Qiong Hai became even more excited upon hearing this, and his colossal dragon tail began to sway.
Heavens be merciful!
For hundreds of years, he had been cultivating diligently in the darkness. Although he had some guidance from the 'Dragon Abyss,' the further he progressed, the more difficult it became.
Finally, he encountered a senior expert from his own lineage!
Sometimes.
A single piece of advice from a senior was better than ten years of arduous cultivation.
Niu Hao left helplessly.
The King of Qiong Hai hurriedly asked in a low voice, "Fang Xia, what does Senior Wan Liu like? When I go to meet him, should I bring some gifts? Does Senior Wan Liu have any specific requirements?"
He felt anxious.
"Hehe, if Senior Wan Liu needs treasures, do you have any in your possession?" Fang Xia shook his head, smiling.
"That's right, Senior Wan Liu is such an extraordinary person." The King of Qiong Hai suddenly realized.
"After the Central Earth Conference, come to Cloud Mountain to meet Senior Wan Liu." Fang Xia said, "By then, we can discuss it in more detail."
"Alright." The King of Qiong Hai nodded.
...
"Body Refiner? Senior Wan Liu is a Body Refiner?" Emperor Dongpan quickly received this news through the 'Central Earth Immortal Palace.'
He remained calm.
He quickly received another piece of news: The King of Qiong Hai was about to go to Cloud Mountain to seek guidance from Wan Liu.
"King of Qiong Hai is a Body Refiner at the Transcendent Nine Layers."
"Wan Liu is so confident in guiding him. Could it be that he is really in the Spiritual Body Realm?" Emperor Dongpan was secretly astonished.
In some ways, the deterrent power of the Spiritual Body Realm was even more terrifying than the Gold Core Realm.
Because.
In the Spiritual Body Realm, one could live for five thousand years!
...
During the half hour when Wu Yuan directly left the 'Central Earth Immortal Palace,' before the commencement of the 'Central Earth Conference.'
Some great cultivators who had not entered the Central Earth Immortal Palace received the news one after another.
In the forbidden caves deep in the west of the Sacred Capital of the Great Jin Empire.
"Father."
"This is what happened today." Jing Ji respectfully said, "Son suspects that the terrifying God-shaking Art in the previous battle was performed by Wan Liu."
"Spiritual Soul and Divine Consciousness are so strong; indeed, it might be a cultivator in the Gold Core Realm." The figure in the purple robe spoke slowly.
Jing Ji listened, and his heart was also shocked.
Could it really be a cultivator in the Gold Core Realm?
"However," the figure in the purple robe said calmly, "if it is a Gold Core cultivator, why not act directly? With his strength, sweeping through our Great Jin wouldn't be difficult."
"According to what Fang Xia said, Wan Liu is unwilling to provoke too much karma," Jing Ji said.
"Hehe, karma?"
A trace of disdain flashed in the eyes of the figure in the purple robe: "In the immortal path, where is there no involvement with karma? Just resolve all karma, this Wan Liu, I estimate, is an extremely powerful Transcendent Nine Layers with a formidable Spiritual Soul, deliberately disguised as 'Gold Core Realm' to intimidate us."
"Transcendent Nine Layers?" Jing Ji was taken aback.
"The probability of him being in the Gold Core Realm is very low," the figure in the purple robe calmly said. "However, with such strong Spiritual Consciousness, his strength cannot be low. At least, he is at the Transcendent Nine Layers and most likely a Qi Refiner in the middle-third grade of Immortal Foundation."
Middle-third grade of Immortal Foundation?
Jing Ji couldn't help but be astonished.
Immortal Foundation is divided into nine grades, and the middle-third grade includes the fourth, fifth, and sixth grades of Immortal Foundation.
It might sound ordinary, but in reality, ninety-nine percent of Qi Sea realm cultivators are in the lower three grades.
Throughout the Central Earth, Qi Refiners of the sixth grade of Immortal Foundation are extremely rare!
As for the fifth grade? It's legendary in Central Earth!
"While he's not in the Gold Core Realm, such a great cultivator, combined with Fang Xia, would make it very difficult for our Great Jin if a war breaks out," the figure in the purple robe said indifferently. "As always, instruct them to abandon all actions against 'Wu Yuan' and his family."
"As long as the Hengyun Sect doesn't actively attack."
"Everything will be discussed after I leave seclusion." The figure in the purple robe left these words and turned into countless dots of light.
"Send off Father." Jing Ji bowed.
After pondering for a moment, he took out the Palace Jade.
...
In the Eastern Province, in the depths of a fog-filled canyon in Wanxing Mansion, behind many courtyards were towering towers.
Inside the tower.
Many star images were spread all over.
"Wanxing." Liu Junxing said in a low voice, "What should we do?"
"He might be in the Gold Core Realm." A cold voice sounded from the depths of the tower. "However, since our Star Alliance has reconciled with him, and he has not swept away forces from all sides, whether he is or not is irrelevant to us."
"Instruct them."
"Do not provoke the Hengyun Sect. In this era, the Hengyun Sect is destined to rise. We'll wait for the day when their tower collapses." The cold voice said.
"Yes!"
...
In the desolate state of Zhou, located in the southwest of Central Earth.
This place is vast and expansive. In terms of territorial size, it is even larger than the Holy State!
Historically, it has been full of towering mountains and filled with miasma. Moreover, countless demons and monsters lurk. In terms of harshness of the environment, only the Desert State can compare to the Desolate State.
Survival for humans in the Desolate State is extremely difficult.
However.
Over the past two thousand years, humans have continued to multiply and have still stubbornly taken root in the Desolate State. Many tribes are scattered among the hundreds of thousands of mountains.
Numerous tribes, tens of millions of living beings, all worship and believe in the 'Desolate State Temple.'
This is the only martial dao sect in the Desolate State.
Also, one of the few major forces in the world!
Today.
In the towering stone hall constructed on a hundred-zhang-high giant rock, surrounded by dense forests, many exotic beasts live in buildings around.
In the Desolate State, there are more demons than humans.
Inside the stone hall, a massive black-scaled dragon, coiled together, exuded a majestic aura.
It was the world-renowned 'Desolate State Black Dragon.'
Having lived for over eight hundred years.
"Senior Dragon, is that Senior Wan Liu really in the Spiritual Body Realm?" A slender woman with a veil on her head and wearing a red battle armor stood between two divine pillars.
Her voice was cold and pleasant, like celestial music, making people involuntarily intoxicated.
"Madam."
The Black Dragon King spoke in a deep voice, "Just now, the 'King of the Qiong Sea' from the South China Sea mentioned to me in the Central Earth Immortal Palace that Senior Wan Liu is most likely in the Spiritual Body Realm."
"King of the Qiong Sea will go to Yunshan in Jiangzhou after the Central Earth Conference ends to meet this Senior Wan Liu."
The woman in the red battle armor had sparkling eyes, as if contemplating.
"Madam."
"You are a genius with unparalleled talent, achieving the Heavenly Rankings before the age of thirty and establishing a fifth-grade Immortal Foundation. In terms of high talent, only the ancient 'War God' can match you." The Black Dragon King sighed lightly. "But you are too young, just reaching the Fifth Layer of Qi Sea, and there isn't enough time for you to grow."
"The news of the 'Barren God' buried in the 'Demon Abyss' will eventually be impossible to hide."
"Because of the Demon Abyss, our temple prospers!"
"But over the past few hundred years, the disturbances in the Demon Abyss have become stronger and stronger. Obviously, the revival of spiritual energy in heaven and earth not only affects our Central Earth."
"The 'Demon Land' in the Demon Abyss is also growing rapidly. The demons bred there are becoming more and more powerful. Relying solely on our temple in the Desolate State is increasingly inadequate!" Black Dragon King continued, "We must seek external help."
"But our ancestors have left a prohibition!" The woman in the red battle armor gritted her teeth, and the silver bells by her ears jingled.
"Ancestral rules are meant to be changed; don't be too rigid," the Black Dragon King spoke in a low voice. "Madam, I understand your concerns."
"Once we release the Demon Abyss."
"I'm afraid there will be no peace. With our current strength, without a Transcendent Nine Layers cultivator in the Qi Sea, it's hard to preserve the Demon Abyss."
"But if we don't release it."
"Once the formation is broken, the demons rush out of the Demon Abyss, wreaking havoc in the world. We will not only be sinners in the Desolate State but also sinners in Central Earth," the Black Dragon King advised, "And right now, with Senior Wan Liu, we can completely eliminate the calamity of the Demon Abyss."
"No!"
The woman in the red battle armor showed a trace of determination in her eyes. "The temple was left by our ancestors, by my grandfather. I will not allow it to be sacrificed in my hands."
"I want to make one last attempt."
(End of this chapter)