Chapter 28 - 180-185 (13.1k)

Chapter 180: Lord of the World

In the years 3231 and 3232 of the Eastern Martial Calendar, these two years were destined to be recorded in the history of Midland.

First was the Battle of the Insect Demon Catastrophe, where top experts from various forces across the land emerged, gathering in the Wilderness Province to engage in a decisive battle against the Insect Demons.

Soon after, there erupted an unprecedented war in Midland involving the Grand Jin Empire and numerous forces forming the 'Immortal Path Alliance.'

In the end, during the Battle of the Holy Capital City, Wu Yuan slew Jin Quan.

Jin Ji, Zhao Xing, and others also perished, leading to the collapse of the highest echelons of the Grand Jin Empire.

The entire Jin Nation was annihilated in just half a month.

Jin Quan's strength had made figures like the Extreme North King, Sang Gu, and Liu Junxing look up to him.

As for Wu Yuan, who could kill Jin Quan, how powerful had he become?

Therefore, Wu Yuan didn't need to express his position.

Under the clandestine influence of Fang Xia and King Qionghai, the Immortal Path Alliance swiftly transformed from a loose alliance into a force surpassing all other powers in the world.

At the suggestion of the Extreme North King and North Fierce, Wu Yuan received unanimous recognition and became the leader of the alliance.

In October of the year 3231, the Hengyun Sect's army set out from Jiangzhou, occupying the entire territory of Yuanshou, Chujiang, and Zhongzhou (Shengzhou) within a month.

In November of the year 3231, the Empire was established, named 'Wu.'

The founding emperor was Wu Yuan.

In the early part of the year 3232 of the Eastern Martial Calendar, under the 'diplomatic' methods of Fang Xia and King Qionghai, from the Northern Province to the South Sea, tens of thousands of islands, Qiongzhou overseas, and the Western and Wilderness provinces, all pledged allegiance to the 'Wu Nation.'

Wherever mortal clans reached, and wherever demonic beasts roamed, all submitted to the rule of the 'Wu Nation.'

The revival of the Midland civilization for over three thousand years, since the Martial King, witnessed the emergence of a 'supreme ruler' recognized by all powerful individuals and common people throughout the world—Wu Yuan!

It was also the first true unified kingdom in Midland in three thousand years—Wu Nation.

Previously existing forces like the Star Pavilion, Martial Ancestors, Seven Star Pavilion, Nine Kill Mansion, and even the Hengyun Sect, still existed, but their influence was rapidly shrinking.

In the year 3232 of the Eastern Martial Calendar, also known as the first year of the Xianwu Era, the Immortal Path Alliance was renamed 'Midland Guard,' and all local sects' Earth Ranking Masters and top experts had to join.

At the same time, another force directly loyal to the 'Supreme Lord Wu Yuan,' the Tengshe Guard, led by Fang Xia, was quietly established. It began to select outstanding and young martial talents across the continent.

Cultivated from a young age, they were absolutely loyal.

...

Nanmeng Prefecture, Licheng.

County Martial Academy.

"Today, what we are going to visit is the place where His Majesty practiced for several years when he was young."

A group of newly admitted youths were following a middle-aged man in a black robe, walking in this restricted area of the martial academy.

These youths looked around curiously.

It seemed ordinary.

"Don't touch anything randomly," the middle-aged man in the black robe reprimanded. "Don't think everything looks inconspicuous. You must know that eight years ago, His Majesty practiced here, and during those years in the martial academy, His Majesty was always the most diligent among the disciples."

"In those years."

"His Majesty walked out of the County Martial Academy, entered Yunsan, and became the first genius of the Hengyun Sect in the contemporary era."

"Becoming the first genius of our entire Midland!"

"Even in the end, standing at the pinnacle of the continent, establishing the Wu Nation." The middle-aged man in the black robe was quite excited. "What does it signify?"

"The external environment is not the most important."

"As long as you cultivate diligently with sincerity, in the future, you can also become an Earth Ranking Master, or even a Heavenly Ranking expert." The middle-aged man in the black robe spoke with fervor.

These youths listened with their hearts surging.

They were all around ten years old, and since they could comprehend things, they had been hearing legends and stories about 'Wu Yuan.'

Initially, he was just the first genius of Jiangzhou, later becoming the first genius of the Central Plains.

Ultimately, he leaped to the pinnacle of the continent. What a legendary journey!

In the hearts of these youths, even the legendary Martial King, the Founder of Humanity, was far inferior to Wu Yuan, instinctively inspiring admiration and longing.

Soon, the group walked out of the building.

Approaching them from a distance was a remarkably young woman in martial attire, exuding an elegant and beautiful aura.

"Huan Dean." The middle-aged man in the black robe saluted.

"Dean."

"Is she the dean?"

"It is said that His Majesty's first teacher was the dean." These youths looked excitedly at the beautiful woman.

...

Outside the city, Wu Mansion, guests came in an endless stream.

In the courtyard's depths, there was a pavilion.

"Really can't get a day of peace." A burly and sturdy young man shook his head and said with a smile, "Luo He, you've been waiting for a long time."

Standing not far away was a dashing young man.

"Haha, even the Luo Mansion has people coming to seek an audience all day long. There's a queue of all sorts of people. I don't even know where they heard the news," Luo He shook his head and chuckled. "Even some major clans from the Southern Province have sent people to send gifts. I wonder where they got the information."

"Today, I came to you just to escape the hustle and bustle." Luo He laughed.

The burly young man smiled, "Okay, the wine is ready. Have a seat."

The two brothers sat down.

The burly young man poured the wine and said, "How about it? Has your father made a decision?"

"The Elders' Council of the Luo Clan passed it unanimously." Luo He shook his head. "But I pushed it back for a year. I'll take over as the clan head next year, and I can enjoy peace for another year."

The burly young man nodded, "You're quite extraordinary now."

"Wu Sheng, aren't you the same?" Luo He glanced at him. "Has your father's appointment come down?"

"Yeah, County Commander." The burly young man nodded.

These two people were none other than Wu Yuan's childhood friends, Wu Sheng and Luo He.

Back when Wu Yuan entered Yunsan, they had been cultivating in the Southern Dream Martial Academy.

"Before, when studying, it always felt like becoming an immortal, and the idea of chickens and dogs ascending to heaven was just a joke." Luo He shook his head with emotion. "I didn't expect that one day, we would become the chickens and dogs in someone else's mouth."

Wu Sheng couldn't help but smile.

"Really, it's been several years since I last saw Wu Yuan." Luo He sighed softly. "Reminiscing about the time in the martial academy."

"Be cautious, he should be addressed as Your Majesty." Wu Sheng whispered.

"Yes, Your Majesty." Luo He shook his head and laughed, "I knew back then that His Majesty would achieve great things, but I didn't expect this."

"A dream." Wu Sheng uttered two words.

"Yes, quite dreamlike." Luo He nodded, shaking his head with emotion. "However, people only think of us as His Majesty's friends. How do they know whether His Majesty has already forgotten about us?"

Suddenly.

"Young Master!" The steward hurriedly ran from the front yard. "Young Master, quickly, go to the front yard to receive the edict."

"What edict?" Wu Sheng was taken aback.

"It's His Majesty's edict." The steward continued, "Master Luo, are you here too? Hurry home, the Luo Mansion has also received an edict."

The two brothers immediately became more alert and rose at the same time.

...

In Yunshan Prefecture, it had officially been renamed 'Cloud Capital City.'

As the capital of the entire Wu Nation, it was destined to become the core of the Central Continent.

Therefore.

Cloud Capital City began an unprecedented large-scale expansion. According to the plan, Cloud Capital City would eventually span the Cloud River, covering hundreds of miles, accommodating eight million people.

It would surpass Central Capital City and become the largest city in the world!

However, it would take time.

In the east, the expanded Wu Mansion, which was now several times larger, had numerous pavilions and mansions, resembling a small imperial city.

In one of the courtyards.

"Uncle, what do you think His Majesty will reward you with?" A tall young man in a purple robe exclaimed excitedly. "You are the main family head of the Wu Clan."

"There's no main family branch."

Wu Mao, dressed in a black robe, said calmly, "There is only the Wu Nation Imperial Family. Wu Qiming is the head of the Imperial Family. I'm just the clan elder."

"Yes, you are the clan elder." The young man in the purple robe agreed repeatedly.

Wu Mao whispered, "The Immortal Palace has issued a decree to appoint Wu Yijun as the 'Grand Princess' and also known as the 'Southern Dream Princess,' with the fiefdom of Southern Dream Prefecture."

"Appointing the clan head as the 'East River King,' the head of the Imperial Family."

"As for me? It should be a marquis." Wu Mao said indifferently.

"Marquis?" The young man in the purple robe couldn't help but say, "Wu Qiming is appointed as a prince. No matter what, you should at least be a duke."

"Wu Qiming is an exception. His Majesty has issued a decree. In the future, Imperial Family members must achieve at least Heavenly Ranking status to be appointed as kings or masters." Wu Mao said calmly, "The rewards we receive will not be less. Remember, despite the tremendous honors and benefits we've gained, in His Majesty's heart, there is a world of difference between us and Wu Qiming and the others."

"Spread the word, don't be arrogant, don't overstep your bounds."

"Also, don't harbor resentment in your heart."

Wu Mao glanced at the young man in purple, "When His Majesty unifies the world, we haven't contributed much. Without the Wu Clan, His Majesty is still the emperor who shakes the world."

"However, without His Majesty, my Wu Clan is worthless."

"Fortunately, His Majesty hasn't hindered the path of advancement for the Imperial Family. Now, what we need to do is make good use of resources, cultivate diligently, and produce more masters and even Heavenly Ranking experts."

...

Above Yunshan.

Two figures walked in the void.

"Young Master, I have already ordered as you instructed." Fang Xia smiled, "In these past months, the order of the empire has been established in various states, and the rule has taken preliminary shape."

"Next, it's a subtle process, letting countless people on the continent truly believe in the Wu Nation and even worship His Majesty."

"This will take time." Fang Xia said solemnly.

"Lao Fang, in my opinion, being the Alliance Master of the Immortal Path Alliance is enough," Wu Yuan shook his head. "Why establish a nation?"

Perhaps some Heavenly Ranking experts pursued founding sects and establishing nations.

But for Wu Yuan, he had no such aspirations.

"Your Majesty, without establishing a nation, how can you make the world truly believe?" Fang Xia shook his head. "Without a unified name and power, how can you weaken the presence of the major sects?"

"The faith and incense offerings would be impossible to discuss."

"In fact, complete unity in the Central Continent, reducing conflicts, is the best for ordinary people. It can significantly reduce wars."

"You don't need to worry about these matters." Fang Xia smiled. "Myself and Bu Yu, we will naturally handle everything well."

"Once the system is perfected, everything will fall into place and operate smoothly."

"You don't need to worry too much, Young Master."

"What you need to do is, as always, cultivate."

"The stronger you become, the safer the Central Continent will be." Fang Xia said, "Even if powerful beings from other areas of the Xia Shan world cross over the Nether Domain and reach the Central Continent, we have nothing to worry about."

"Mm." Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

...

Wu Yuan chatted with Fang Xia for a while, learned about the major events of the past few months, and investigated many situations around Cloud Capital City.

Then he returned to the Tianwu Mountain.

In this year, for countless people on the Central Continent, it was a time of changing fortunes.

But for Wu Yuan?

There was not much change.

After the Battle of Shengjing City, apart from memorializing Wanxing Daoist, Dongpan Emperor, and others, and personally setting up related monuments, the annual sacrifices continued.

Wu Yuan only appeared in the Immortal Palace of the Central Continent once.

Accepting the worship of many Heavenly Ranking experts, officially establishing his supreme position in the Central Continent.

It wasn't that Wu Yuan really wanted to unify the Central Continent.

But as his strength manifested, and with the support of Fang Xia and King Qionghai, everything fell into place.

However, it didn't have much impact on Wu Yuan.

All miscellaneous matters were handled by others.

Apart from occasionally accompanying his family, most of Wu Yuan's time and energy were spent on cultivating and—breaking the token marks!

In the meditation room.

"After ten months of effort, I'm finally about to break through this treasure token left by Jin Quan." Wu Yuan looked down at the purple mansion token in his hand.

After the Battle of Shengjing City, Wu Yuan killed many Heavenly Ranking experts, especially Jin Quan, naturally gaining all of his treasures.

Upon Wu Yuan's investigation.

In addition to a large number of flying sword treasures, spiritual weapon battle armor, and numerous heavenly materials and earthly treasures, as well as cultivation classics and books.

The most precious item was the token in Wu Yuan's hand.

However, the life imprint contained in the token was incredibly deep.

Even with Wu Yuan's formidable spiritual power, it took nearly a year to completely erase it.

"Hum~" The purple token suddenly flashed with brilliance.

PS: First update

A new volume begins.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 181: Entering the Treasure Realm (Seeking Monthly Votes and Subscriptions)

The mysterious purple token blinked only a few times before quickly falling silent again. However, a faint and elusive aura had already spread out.

"Has it returned to being ownerless?" Wu Yuan couldn't help but smile.

Tokens like these, either their owners voluntarily released their control, or they became ownerless after their masters' deaths, waiting for the internal life imprint to gradually break down over time. Or, like in his case, forcefully expelled!

"It took me ten months to succeed," Wu Yuan thought to himself. "If it were Jin Quan, it might take him over a hundred years. Initially, what he got was probably an ownerless item."

It all came down to luck.

Among the storage treasures left by Jin Quan, Wu Yuan found a large number of source stones, including many high-quality ones rarely seen in the Central Continent. There were also many powerful magic treasures, such as the six-grade spiritual armor that Jin Quan used, which Wu Yuan handed over to Fang Xia.

There were also four complete sword formations, a total of thirty-six spiritual flying swords, eighteen of which were seventh-grade spiritual weapons, and eighteen were sixth-grade flying swords.

There were many broken spiritual weapons, including sixth and even fifth-grade ones. Additionally, there were numerous Daoist texts, including many scriptures, cultivation methods, and the most powerful of them all—the "Mingyue Sword Canon."

All this confirmed that what the Ten Thousand Stars Taoist said was true.

Jin Quan had extraordinary luck.

Moreover, after the Battle of the Sacred Capital, Wu Yuan also found the forbidden mountain not far from the Sacred Capital and discovered the ruins deep within. Unfortunately, he couldn't enter and had to return empty-handed.

"Recognize the master." Wu Yuan's divine sense moved swiftly, imprinting the life mark in the purple token, and he carefully sensed it.

In the next instant,

"Hum~" Like a dam breaking, a torrential stream rushed down. The moment Wu Yuan recognized the master, a large amount of information instantly flooded into his mind.

"I am Qingyan, a true person, and a great calamity is imminent in the Xia Shan World, leaving behind..." Wu Yuan realized that this should be the information message hidden by the token's owner.

Therefore, Wu Yuan did not resist.

He actively accepted it.

With Wu Yuan's powerful divine soul, it only took a few breaths to accept all the information from the token, finally understanding the cause and effect.

"So, it turns out to be the legacy of a Purple Mansion True Person?" Wu Yuan marveled at this.

When he first gained Jin Quan's treasures, he had speculated.

It didn't quite resemble the legacy of a Golden Core True Person.

In short, the information contained in the token was, a long time ago, this Purple Mansion True Person named "Qingyan" sensed that a great calamity was about to engulf the entire Xia Shan World. Therefore, before going to confront this great calamity, he didn't want his lifelong gains to be lost. Hastily, he left behind an inheritance site for someone destined to enter.

From the current situation, this Purple Mansion True Person had not returned, presumably perishing in that terrifying calamity.

"Is it the great war from a hundred thousand years ago?" Wu Yuan thought of the great war mentioned by the Realm Lord.

Sweeping through the entire Qingling Grand Boundary, even the mighty Houbian Tribe was destroyed, and it affected the Xia Shan World as well.

"Let's go take a look." Wu Yuan made a decision.

This True Person Qingyan hastily left behind an inheritance, so the probability was high that there weren't many treasures left. It should primarily consist of 'Dao Scriptures,' a conclusion drawn from Jin Quan's legacy.

Therefore, in True Person Qingyan's inheritance, there probably weren't many treasures left.

However,

He had to make the trip to find out.

...

Thinking about it, Wu Yuan naturally went to do it, only transmitting a message to Fang Xia with a sentence, without notifying anyone else.

Wu Yuan left Tianwu Mountain directly.

With a few flashes, he arrived in the sky, continuously breaking through the clouds, and finally reaching an altitude of tens of thousands of meters.

Below were thick clouds, and the sky above was bright!

"Going further up, I will gradually approach the Thunder Zone." Wu Yuan looked up.

He understood in his heart that to leave the Central Continent World,

One way was through the teleportation array.

The other way was to rely on powerful strength, break through the Thunder Layer, and then pass through the vast 'Gravitational Zone' to truly leave the Xia Shan World.

However,

With Wu Yuan's current strength, he couldn't leave the Xia Shan World on his own.

"Xiao Hei!"

"Roar~" A black flying snake crawled out along his arm, then rushed into the void. Its body rapidly enlarged and transformed into a forty-zhang-long flying snake.

Forty zhang was quite astonishing.

Compared to a year ago, it was another size larger.

"Master." Xiao Hei called in his heart, looking extremely excited. Rolling its massive body, its huge head lifted Wu Yuan up instantly.

This was a very intimate action.

"Go to Zhongzhou City." Wu Yuan smiled. The reason he let Xiao Hei out was that it loved staying in the outside world.

So, whenever there was a chance, Wu Yuan would let Xiao Hei out.

Xiao Hei responded.

"Swoosh!" The huge black wings spread open, gently shook, and the enormous body shot up like an arrow. The speed soared to a terrifying level.

However, there was an invisible fluctuation.

But Wu Yuan couldn't feel much of the wind's movement.

"Xiao Hei, breaking through to Tong Xuan Sixth Layer, your speed has become even faster." Wu Yuan thought to himself.

Yes, after nearly a year of cultivation, Wu Yuan had advanced from Tong Xuan Fifth Layer to Tong Xuan Sixth Layer.

As the personal Witch Beast, Xiao Hei also broke through.

...

Breaking through to Tong Xuan Sixth Layer, the speed of the Teng Snake became faster, reaching the level of traveling a hundred miles in a single breath during normal flight.

If using the Divine Movement Technique, the speed could be increased significantly for a short period.

From Yunshan to Zhongzhou City, about twenty thousand miles.

Wu Yuan and Xiao Hei flew above the clouds, and in just over a minute, Xiao Hei's voice rang out, "Master, we're almost there."

Hoo!

The enormous flying snake quickly broke through the clouds and descended. In Wu Yuan's line of sight, the immense city below quickly appeared — the Sacred Capital City.

Now, it's also called Zhongzhou City.

Sacred Province has restored its ancient name — Zhongzhou.

"Compared to a year ago, it seems to be somewhat desolate." Wu Yuan looked down at the tiny buildings, streets, and crowds below.

With his vision, even ants on the ground were clearly visible.

The once grand capital of the Great Jin Dynasty had become empty. A year ago, when Wu Yuan battled with Jin Quan, the repairs were only halfway done, and now, they were still only halfway completed.

Weeds had overgrown.

And due to the impacts of several battles, countless buildings and streets destroyed still hadn't fully recovered over the past year.

Even the numerous people walking on the streets seemed somewhat numb.

Compared to the vibrant atmosphere in Yunshan City, it was like heaven and earth.

"Its rise is vigorous, and its fall is sudden." Wu Yuan couldn't help recalling this saying, feeling a strange emotion.

During the heyday of the Great Jin, it was unstoppable, and the Sacred Capital City became the number one city in the world.

"Now, with me establishing the Wu Kingdom as the ruler of the Central Continent, Yunshan City will probably become the number one city in the Central Continent in the future." Wu Yuan muttered to himself, "But how long can it last?"

The more he witnessed,

The more he experienced,

The more Wu Yuan felt in his heart.

Swoosh!

Xiao Hei, carrying Wu Yuan, glided through the sky, and the light around them warped. The countless people and warriors below didn't perceive Wu Yuan's arrival.

Arriving at a mountain peak on the west side of Zhongzhou City.

The mountain peak was still shrouded in numerous white mists, with many soldiers guarding the outer periphery, preventing ordinary people from entering.

This place used to be a forbidden area of the Great Jin.

Despite the fall of the Great Jin and the establishment of the Wu Kingdom, this place remained restricted, not to protect what was in the mountain but to safeguard against trespassing civilians.

Quickly,

Wu Yuan arrived above the mountain peak.

"Open." Wu Yuan's mind moved, and a powerful divine sense spread out. Countless white mists autonomously parted, allowing Xiao Hei to shoot straight in.

There used to be many giant snakes living here, but now there were fewer.

Familiar with the route.

Wu Yuan followed the cave and quickly reached the end of the cave.

Here, there was a magnificent temple. The hall was simple, but the materials of the floor and walls highlighted its extraordinary nature.

After killing Jin Quan, Wu Yuan explored all the way and came to this temple.

Unable to proceed further.

Ten months later, Wu Yuan came again.

"The door is over there." Wu Yuan's divine sense spread over an area of more than fifty miles. The circular region centered around him was completely within his perception.

In reality, this mountain was enveloped by a colossal metal palace.

The palace was over four li at its longest, over two li at its shortest, and over three hundred meters in height.

Incredibly sturdy!

At least, a year ago, when he first attempted to forcibly break it open, he failed.

He just confirmed the location of the door through divine sense.

As for the interior of the palace? In his divine sense exploration, it was like a massive black hole, impossible to enter and perceive.

Wu Yuan arrived at the entrance.

This entrance looked no different from the surrounding walls.

"Go." Wu Yuan waved his hand, and the purple token instantly flew out, sticking to the door. In an instant, countless secret patterns appeared on the door.

These lines seem chaotic, but they faintly form a whole.

"Wind? The mysteries of the wind?" Wu Yuan pondered, as he didn't comprehend the mysteries of the way of the wind.

But with all things connected, there was not a complete separation.

Therefore, Wu Yuan could sense a bit.

"Boom~" Countless secret patterns converged, accompanied by a dull sound. The originally solid wall split in the middle, revealing an internal metallic passage.

The walls of the passage emitted a strange blue light.

Swoosh~

The token flew back, hovering by Wu Yuan's side.

"A passage?" Wu Yuan's divine sense penetrated through the passage, gaining some perception of the interior, which seemed quiet.

The lighting was dim.

"Unfortunately, I don't have any puppets." Wu Yuan frowned slightly. Puppets were treasures commonly used by cultivators. They were not only useful in battles but also practical in exploration, treasure hunting, and many other aspects.

The demon soldiers under Chong Mo were, in fact, similar to puppets.

"Xiao Hei, go." Wu Yuan's mind moved, and Xiao Hei, which had been coiled around his arm, didn't hesitate. Its figure swiftly entered the metallic passage.

Xiao Hei's body became very slender.

Soon.

"Master, there's no danger. This is a very large hall with several passages. I don't know where they lead." Xiao Hei's voice echoed in Wu Yuan's mind.

Wu Yuan was about to enter when suddenly,

"Master, master, it's 'Stellar Origin Projection.'" Xiao Hei suddenly exclaimed, "It's actually the legendary Stellar Origin Projection!"

"Stellar Origin Projection?" Wu Yuan was taken aback.

"Haha, master, with this, you can completely cultivate two great incarnations." Xiao Hei was extremely excited.

---

ps: Second update, seeking votes!

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 182: True Self, Dharma Body, Source Body (Extra Update for the Silver Union's 'Absolute￠Carefree')

"Stellar Origin Projection?"

Wu Yuan was slightly surprised, "Cultivate two great incarnations?"

Cultivating a new incarnation was not an easy task.

On the path of witchcraft and Dao, one eventually had to cultivate the 'Splitting the Divine Technique' to have the hope of reaching the pinnacle on both paths. Otherwise, one would have to give up one path sooner or later.

But cultivating an additional incarnation was akin to sacrificing one's life. How difficult would it be to achieve?

"Xiao Hei, is it true?" Wu Yuan inquired through his mind.

Unlike the situation a year ago when Xiao Hei was just born, it now possessed considerable inherited memories but lacked the time to assimilate and learn.

In the past year, Wu Yuan's strength had skyrocketed. Xiao Hei, with its powerful magical body and rapidly increasing intelligence, could now provide advice in many aspects.

"It's true."

"Master, everything here matches the description of the Stellar Origin Projection in my memories." Xiao Hei continued, "Master, there's no danger in this palace. You can come in and take a look."

Wu Yuan had already explored a bit with his divine sense.

He re-refined the token.

Xiao Hei took the lead again to investigate. Wu Yuan already had an idea, and with a quick step, he floated through the lengthy metallic passage.

What came into Wu Yuan's sight was a spacious hall with a metallic amalgamation of silver and a hint of blue, seemingly seamless, spanning hundreds of meters and towering over ten meters.

"What's this?" Wu Yuan's eyes immediately fell on the enormous crystal pedestal at the center of the hall. The pedestal was surrounded by chains of light that extended into the void, creating a peculiar connection between them, giving Wu Yuan an eerie feeling.

At this moment, Xiao Hei, with a reduced body size, circled around the crystal pedestal, keeping its eyes fixed on it.

"Three passages?" Wu Yuan's gaze swept across the hall's three aspects, each containing identical metallic passages whose destinations were unknown.

"Master, come over here quickly." Xiao Hei turned its head and called out.

Swoosh!

Wu Yuan took a step over, standing beside Xiao Hei's large head. He finally looked down into the interior of the crystal pedestal. The surface of the pedestal was transparent, and the material used to forge it was unknown, with a diameter exceeding ten meters and a depth exceeding three meters. The surface of the pedestal was covered in a mysterious liquid that emitted faint starlight.

At first glance, this mysterious liquid resembled the 'Starlight Elixir' Wu Yuan used when he was still a martial artist. However, it was obvious that the mysterious liquid inside the pedestal was more crystal-clear.

However, the focus of Wu Yuan's attention wasn't on the liquid. What fascinated him was the elliptical giant egg immersed in these liquids, with a diameter of about two meters.

The giant egg was entirely white, and its shell was covered with numerous mysterious patterns, orderly and with colors similar to the surrounding liquid.

The white giant egg exuded a vigorous life force, as if a powerful life was gestating within.

"Master, look, these liquids are the 'Stellar Origin Divine Liquid,' and they are nurturing this Stellar Origin Projection." Xiao Hei urgently exclaimed, "That guy named Jin Quan unexpectedly had such a treasure?"

"This is a precious treasure for cultivating the true self."

Xiao Hei howled, "It's all yours, master!"

"The owner of this relic must have been an extraordinary figure," Xiao Hei remarked.

"Xiao Hei," Wu Yuan said in a low voice, "I understand cultivating the true self, and I also know the method to cultivate the true self. But what are the Stellar Origin Divine Liquid and Stellar Origin Projection? I've never heard of them."

The Eight Immortals Manuscript given to Wu Yuan by the Realm Master contained many common knowledge about the cultivation world. However, the Realm Master, despite having a high level of insight, had limitations and wasn't omniscient. Therefore, the information about cultivation contained in the manuscript was limited.

"Master, you originally planned to reach the Divine Realm, strive for the spirit to reach the Nascent Soul level, cultivate the 'Splitting the Divine Technique,' and then cultivate two great incarnations, right?" Xiao Hei inquired.

"Yes," Wu Yuan nodded.

In the past year, Wu Yuan and Xiao Hei had frequent conversations. As a loyal familiar, Xiao Hei was inherently trustworthy, and being part of the same entity, it knew many of Wu Yuan's secrets. Or rather, as Wu Yuan's familiar, Xiao Hei naturally knew many of his secrets. What it spoke of was indeed Wu Yuan's plan.

The Witchcraft Dao was essentially a combination of two paths. However, the paths of Qi Cultivation and Body Refinement were contradictory. While they could coexist at the beginning, fatal differences would emerge upon reaching the Divine Realm and Mountain and River Realm.

In the Divine Realm, True Immortals needed to abandon their physical bodies to achieve breakthroughs. Similarly, those in the Mountain and River Realm needed to merge the Divine Palace and Lower Dantian Palace completely, refining their bodies to perfection. There was a fundamental conflict between the two!

Therefore, those who cultivated both Qi and Body Refinement, if they had high talent, would eventually have to make a choice and completely abandon one path. This was where the 'Splitting the Divine Technique' came into play.

In the Divine Realm and Mountain and River Realm, the Divine Soul would be divided into two, pulling the Qi Sea away from the main body, allowing the re-cultivation of the Qi Cultivation true self. At that point, the two incarnations wouldn't interfere with each other, and one could continue on both paths.

But how difficult was that?

Among the thousands of cultivators in the Mountain and River Realm, it was challenging to find someone who had cultivated a Qi Cultivation true self.

To practice the 'Splitting the Divine Technique,' the Divine Soul had to reach the Nascent Soul level. Only then could it withstand the severe impact brought by the separation of the divine body without risking death.

To have a powerful Yang Spirit that reached an extremely strong level, the birth of a divine consciousness, and the culmination of this consciousness to condense the void or even create a miniature world were required to form the Nascent Soul.

Want to cultivate a Nascent Soul in the Divine Realm? It was as difficult as ascending to the heavens! Only Wu Yuan, with the help of the Black Tower, had rapidly grown his Divine Soul and reached the Yang Spirit level before reaching the Spirit Manifestation Realm, giving him some confidence.

After all, even with fast cultivation, it would normally take several hundred years to reach the Mountain and River Ninth Stage.

"Master, several hundred years is too long."

"Firstly, I'm not sure if you can reach the Nascent Soul Realm by then, and secondly, long-term cultivation of both Qi and Body Refinement will only delay your cultivation speed," Xiao Hei said.

Wu Yuan also understood this. Both the Divine Soul and the body were one entity. Whether it was the growth of the Divine Soul or the refinement of the body with spiritual energy, they would mutually affect each other.

Practices like secret arts that operated the source of life within the body would interfere with the circulation of true essence.

Having multiple incarnations was not feasible.

Because of the various drawbacks of practicing both paths and the possibility of ending up with nothing in the end, there were very few cultivators who dared to practice both.

This was also the reason why the Realm Master initially advised Wu Yuan against it.

"Splitting the Divine Technique is difficult, and the future is uncertain. Some great cultivators will seek naturally ethereal bodies, allowing their disciples to cultivate the Qi Cultivation true self early." Xiao Hei continued, "The Stellar Origin Projection, though not the top-tier ethereal body, is similarly rare."

"How does it compare to the Purple Origin Celestial Body?" Wu Yuan asked.

Wu Yuan was already familiar with most of the information Xiao Hei shared. The Purple Origin Celestial Body was indeed the most powerful ethereal body Wu Yuan knew.

"It can't compare."

"Master, the Purple Origin Celestial Body can be perfectly supported even by strong cultivators in the Mountain and River Realm. It is the top-tier ethereal body that even Celestial Witches may struggle to obtain," Xiao Hei shook his head. "It's a treasure that everyone would hesitate to use on someone in the Mountain and River Realm."

Wu Yuan couldn't help but smile. Indeed, it was a treasure that even Celestial Witches would find precious. How many would be willing to use it on someone in the Mountain and River Realm?

"Although the Stellar Origin Projection is somewhat mediocre, at least it won't hinder your growth, and the requirements for the Divine Soul are lower. It's just right for you to cultivate now while your Qi cultivation is not high. Otherwise, when you reach the Divine Realm in Qi cultivation, you might not be able to use it," Xiao Hei said. "Otherwise, when you reach the Divine Realm in Qi cultivation, you might not be able to use it."

Wu Yuan nodded slightly, recognizing that where there are disadvantages, there are also advantages. Cultivating the Qi Cultivation true self early equated to having an additional life, a significant advantage.

The true self was different from the Divine Body and the Source Body. In the highest realms of cultivation, cultivators would cultivate a 'Divine Body' if they followed the path of Qi Cultivation, and those who followed the path of Body Refinement would cultivate a 'Source Body.' Both Divine Body and Source Body were powerful, allowing cultivators to re-cultivate even if they fell in battle. However, these methods couldn't replace the true self. If the true self perished, both the Divine Body and the Source Body would also perish. However, once one cultivated two great incarnations, even if one of the true selves was annihilated, the other would remain intact, allowing for a carefree and immortal existence. In the path of cultivation, achieving longevity and enduring vision was the greatest allure. Moreover, for Wu Yuan, staying in the Central Continent, both the Purple Origin Celestial Body and the Stellar Origin Projection were considered remarkable strokes of luck.

"With my current level of Divine Soul, can I cultivate it?" Wu Yuan asked.

The earlier the cultivation of the Qi Cultivation true self, the lower the requirement for the Divine Soul.

"It's enough," Xiao Hei said. "According to the memories passed down to me, when reaching the Profound Connection Realm, generally, the Divine Soul reaching the peak of Spiritual Perception provides hope."

"As for the Yang Spirit Realm? A hundred percent success!" Xiao Hei said solemnly.

Wu Yuan nodded. Xiao Hei wouldn't deceive him.

"However, from what I observe, the Stellar Origin Projection seems to have not yet been truly nurtured successfully," Xiao Hei said. "Master, you can first separate a thought, nurture it in the projection. When it matures perfectly, you can come back."

Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

As time passed, Wu Yuan slowly pondered the function of the circular platform, using his Divine Soul to sense it fully. Eventually, he began to understand. The countless chains on its surface were, in fact, a complex array, combined with the massive palace.

Whoosh!

Wu Yuan's mind shook slightly. A thread of thought flew out, quickly penetrating the circular platform and entering the white giant egg.

A warm sensation surged through his heart, rapidly restoring Wu Yuan's Divine Soul.

However.

This is just a temporary residence. If you want true integration, relying solely on a thought is not enough; you must separate a small portion of your Divine Soul.

Afterward, Wu Yuan inspected the entire hall but found no other treasures. Unbeknownst to him, there were many treasures initially, but they were all taken by Jin Quan.

"There are still three passages?" Wu Yuan scanned the remaining three passages, and his Divine Sense encountered mysterious forces blocking them.

"Let's go!"

With Xiao Hei leading the way, Wu Yuan followed closely behind, randomly choosing a metal passage to explore. He proceeded cautiously, step by step.

All the way, they encountered no obstacles.

After traversing nearly a kilometer, Wu Yuan and Xiao Hei arrived at a hall with a diameter of only a few dozen meters, still empty.

"What is this place?" Wu Yuan was puzzled, his gaze sweeping over the mysterious patterns on the walls.

These were things not present in the outer hall.

What exactly was this massive palace? It seemed to be a whole entity. Wu Yuan had yet to discover any seams, which was simply inconceivable. It was like a magical treasure, but Wu Yuan had not found the control center to this day.

Suddenly, a powerful Divine Soul fluctuation swept from all directions of the hall, instantly rushing towards Wu Yuan's Upper Dantian Palace.

"Divine Soul attack?" Wu Yuan's eyes narrowed.

Boom! Wu Yuan's Divine Sense expanded, taking the initiative to counterattack.

Hum! Invisible Divine Soul collisions occurred. With Wu Yuan's powerful Divine Soul, he easily blocked this wave of Divine Soul impacts.

In terms of power, it was far inferior to the dying counterattack of the Insect Demon.

"Hmm? You actually blocked it?"

A young and tender voice suddenly echoed in the hall. "Who are you? Could it be that you killed Jin Quan, obtained the token, and entered here?"

---

PS: Extra update for the Silver Alliance Leader 'Absolute Bliss'.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 183: He's Lying

Almost the moment the voice rang out.

"Swoosh~" Layers of fish-scale-like magical armor completely covered Wu Yuan, leaving only a slit for his eyes.

This palace was peculiar, restricting Divine Sense everywhere, so vision was crucial.

Swoosh~ Xiao Hei also swiftly leaped, rapidly shrinking in size, and in the blink of an eye, returned to Wu Yuan's side. A pair of black bone wings had appeared behind Wu Yuan.

"Who are you?" Wu Yuan's voice was low.

Wu Yuan couldn't help but be cautious.

This mysterious palace, buried possibly due to the aftermath of the battle ten thousand years ago, might still have living beings?

And one who could pronounce Jin Quan's name?

What was the relationship between the two sides?

However, Wu Yuan's Divine Sense swept over the hall, which was only a few dozen meters long and wide, and found it empty.

Suddenly, not far from Wu Yuan.

"Ding~" The three walls of this hall suddenly lit up, and mysterious beams of light were emitted from the walls.

A large number of lights converged, eventually forming a child-like phantom about 1.3 meters tall. He was draped in a large blue robe, had red long hair, and a single horn grew on his head, giving him a cute appearance.

"Allow me to introduce myself. I am the Palace Spirit of Yanqing Palace. You can call me 'Silver Suspend.'" The red-haired child with a single horn grinned, his voice deep. "I, Silver Suspend, welcome your arrival."

Yanqing Palace? Palace Spirit? Silver Suspend?

Although the red-haired child spoke only a few words, Wu Yuan already understood much. The palace in front of him was indeed a magical treasure.

And it was at least a third-grade spiritual weapon.

Because only third-grade spiritual weapons and above could give birth to an Artifact Spirit with considerable intelligence.

"Your strength is only at the Sea of Qi Realm, and with the spiritual beast on you, there is no possibility of forcibly breaking in." The red-haired child with a single horn spoke in a deep voice. "Moreover, I sensed the aura of the token."

"You obtained the token and recognized the master. I think you already know the information left by the master in the token and understand the cause and effect."

"Is there anything else you want to know, just ask." The red-haired child with a single horn stared at Wu Yuan. "Ask your questions, and then I will speak."

Wu Yuan looked warily at the red-haired child.

"Is your master Qingyan Zhenren?" Wu Yuan asked.

"Yes, I am one of my master's important treasures. However, my role is not significant since my master is going to face the calamity in the Xia Shan World. I am not of much use, so I was left here." The red-haired child with a single horn said, "This place serves as my master's inheritance ground. You are the second cultivator to come to Yanqing Palace in the past one hundred thousand years."

One hundred thousand years, the second?

"The first one was Jin Quan?" Wu Yuan said.

"Yes, he entered a long time ago and became a sword cultivator, passing several tests of my master, obtaining many treasures and Dao scriptures." The red-haired child with a single horn said, "So, the areas you see inside are all empty."

Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

His guess was indeed correct.

"What can I get?" Wu Yuan asked.

"Get?" The red-haired child with a single horn shook his head. "You can't get anything. You should know that my master left hastily, so there is no detailed inheritance plan."

"Now, the only thing left in the entire Yanqing Palace is the 'Star Source Star Array.'"

"But."

"They are all one with me, so you can't take them with you." The red-haired child with a single horn said, "The entire Yanqing Palace no longer has any treasures."

One with him? Can't take them?

No treasures?

Wu Yuan frowned slightly. "Senior Silver Suspend, what about the Star Source Descendant nurtured in the Star Source Star Array? Can't I take that either?"

Without the Star Source Descendant, he couldn't cultivate the Qi Refining Avatar.

Therefore, obtaining the Star Source Descendant was imperative for Wu Yuan.

"You actually recognize it?" The red-haired child with a single horn's eyes narrowed, staring at Wu Yuan, then suddenly smiled, "Your vision is quite good."

"Senior, you're too kind," Wu Yuan replied without arrogance.

"As for the Star Source Descendant, you can take it, but it's still a hundred years away from maturity. Taking it prematurely will only cause damage." The red-haired child with a single horn said, "Wait a hundred years, and then you can take it."

"A hundred years?" Wu Yuan frowned slightly. Did it really take that long?

He couldn't afford to wait for such a long time.

"Master."

"He's lying." Xiao Hei's voice suddenly echoed in Wu Yuan's mind. "The Star Descendant's spiritual liquid is abundant, there is no shortage at all. So, it doesn't need a hundred years; that Star Source Descendant is already close to perfection and can be fully nurtured in two or three years at most."

"Uh, Xiao Hei, stay quiet." Wu Yuan responded.

Between Xiao Hei and the mysterious red-haired child in front of him, Wu Yuan undoubtedly trusted Xiao Hei more.

Is the other party lying? Wu Yuan speculated.

"Really a hundred years?" Wu Yuan asked.

"Yes, it does take a hundred years." The red-haired child with a single horn insisted, saying, "I'm an Artifact Spirit, would I lie to you? Besides, I can't escape."

"Oh, is that so?" Wu Yuan smiled.

Can't escape?

Wu Yuan didn't dare to underestimate the other's means.

"As an Artifact Spirit, the entire palace is still intact, right?" Wu Yuan asked. "What about your control center?"

For some small-scale magical treasures, recognizing the master was straightforward. However, for large-scale magical treasures with intricate interiors, unless the cultivation level was extremely high, recognizing the master would be more complicated.

Wu Yuan didn't care much about the treasures inside the palace because the palace itself was a treasure.

"My control center is hidden by the master." The red-haired child with a single horn said, "You can't detect it."

"Besides."

"I am a second-grade spiritual weapon, and your strength is too weak. Even if you want to recognize me as the master, it's impossible." The red-haired child with a single horn said, "Come back in a hundred years. By then, your strength will be stronger, and not only can you obtain the Star Source Descendant, but perhaps you can also attempt to refine my control center and control the entire Yanqing Palace."

"As for now? If you want to stay here for a while, then stay."

"But don't disturb me; I want to sleep." The red-haired child with a single horn shook his head, seeming a bit tired.

Wu Yuan nodded and said, "Okay, I'll think about it."

Suddenly.

"You damn bastard! You actually found out?" The red-haired child with a single horn's face suddenly became ferocious, staring at Wu Yuan and said, "I kindly let you go, and you didn't leave."

"Fine, you want to quietly refine me? Then go to hell!"

In an instant.

The situation changed abruptly.

Crack~ Crack~ The walls on all sides of the hall suddenly shimmered with green light, dazzlingly bright.

Terrifying Divine Sense fluctuations swept over.

"You can't keep up the act anymore?" Wu Yuan sneered.

At this moment, his Divine Sense had completely penetrated the walls.

Continuously comprehending and refining the secret patterns on the walls.

Just now, upon entering this hall and seeing the secret patterns on the walls, Wu Yuan sensed that something was amiss.

Following the encounter with the Divine Sense attack, he became vigilant.

Xiao Hei's warning made him highly suspicious of the red-haired child with a single horn in front of him.

Therefore, while dealing with the opponent, he continuously used his powerful Divine Sense to perceive the layers of secret patterns on the walls.

Swiftly confirming the hidden information through the concealed patterns.

This room was the central control hub for the entire palace!

Why did the red-haired child with a single horn obstruct him? Why did he attack and deceive him? Wu Yuan didn't know.

However, Wu Yuan knew that to control Yanqing Palace, these secret patterns had to be refined.

As Wu Yuan attempted to refine them, the red-haired child with a single horn became aware and immediately turned hostile.

"Boom!" Wu Yuan's powerful Divine Sense pressure spread out, easily blocking each successive Divine Sense attack.

Continuing the refinement.

"Ah! Ah, stop, stop!" The red-haired child with a single horn screamed, "Don't force me."

Wu Yuan remained unmoved.

He had long realized that the opponent only had Divine Sense attacks as a means, and the attack range seemed to be limited to this control room.

It wasn't a cause for concern.

...

At the base of the enormous palace, there was a mysterious room.

Inside the room were eight long-sealed, black figures, covered in dust.

They all looked identical, standing about one zhang tall. Motionless, entirely black, except for their four peculiar arms, which didn't resemble normal human arms.

Suddenly.

"Hum~" An invisible fluctuation enveloped the entire room, and an icy voice echoed within.

"Witch cultivators detected, entering the master's territory. Kill!"

"Guardians one through eight, infuse backup source crystals! Activate!"

The eight black, four-armed figures that had slept for who knows how many years, suddenly, three of them, as if coming to life, emitted extremely terrifying auras, and their closed eyes opened.

Blood-red eyes!

Cold and murderous.

Boom! Boom! Boom! These three black, four-armed figures suddenly moved, instantly rushing into a nearby narrow passage and swiftly advancing upwards.

As for the other five black, four-armed figures? They remained with their eyes tightly shut, still in deep slumber.

As if.

Over the long years, they had already decayed.

...

In that special hall, the walls on all sides were shimmering with the light of secret patterns, and Wu Yuan was fully focused on sensing and refining.

Leaving behind imprints of his spiritual essence continuously!

He was gradually attempting to take over control of the palace.

Suddenly.

"Hmm?" Wu Yuan's eyes slightly changed, and he abruptly looked down, his figure rapidly retreating backward.

"Boom~" As if exploding, the metallic ground tore apart, revealing a huge cavern. Three black figures had instantly rushed out.

Suspended in mid-air.

Their aura was fierce.

"This? Puppets?" Wu Yuan saw the three figures at a glance. They all looked identical, their bodies black, as if made of metal.

Like metallic war gods!

Without any signs of life, yet appearing extremely powerful, especially with their four arms.

Where were their arms? Clearly, they were four curved blades, radiating a cold light on both sides!

The red-haired child with a single horn was like a phantom, condensed in the corner, shouting, "Kill him!"

Spoken slowly.

In reality, the three black figures killed Wu Yuan the instant they appeared.

"Get lost!" Wu Yuan roared.

In the first moment of his dodge, nine sword pellets had already flown out, transforming directly into nine life-bound flying swords.

Sword energy was vast! Layers of earth-yellow streams appeared.

The sword formation and domain instantly merged, enveloping Wu Yuan in the center and completely covering the narrow room.

"Boom!"

The illusory divine swords, radiating a hazy earth-yellow light, instantly swept toward the three approaching black figures.

---

Note: The author apologized for feeling too tired and provided only one chapter for the day.

Chapter 184: Lowly Witches

Ten months ago, Wu Yuan used his spiritual sense and true essence to control the nine life-bound flying swords, easily killing Jin Quan in one strike.

This showcased the power of the Xuanhuang Sword Formation.

Compared to the time when he killed Jin Quan, Wu Yuan had advanced from the second stage of the Qi Sea to the third stage, and his spiritual power had become stronger, increasing the Sword Formation's might.

It could be said that even Golden Core cultivators controlling a domain would find it difficult to withstand Wu Yuan's full-powered strike.

"Pong~"

The divine sword's edge was endless, directly blasting the incoming black figure, which flew out like a meteor and crashed into the corridor outside.

But what shocked Wu Yuan was that there were no traces of injury on the black figure.

"Boom~ Boom~" Almost simultaneously, two muffled sounds echoed as the other two black figures were swept aside by the illusory divine swords, crashing into the walls on either side, causing the walls to tremble.

Terrifying shockwaves collided in the small room, but the two figures, upon hitting the walls, rebounded like lightning, simultaneously swinging their arms to attack Wu Yuan.

"Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!"

The three large black figures, like lightning, with four arms resembling divine knives, rushed towards Wu Yuan, launching a frenzied attack.

"Hua!" "Hua!" Several flashes of light simultaneously appeared.

"What level of battle puppets are these?" Wu Yuan was astonished. The speed of their assaults was too fast, leaving him with little time to react.

"Hiss~ Hiss~" The flashes of the blades sparkled, sounding like clashes of metallic weapons.

The illusory divine swords around Wu Yuan faintly vibrated but managed to block the attacks of the two large black puppets.

The nine life-bound flying swords formed the Xuanhuang Sword Formation, even though it was only the first layer - Condensing Swords into Formation, it wasn't easy to break through.

"Such fierce attacks." Wu Yuan marveled inwardly. He felt a powerful force rushing towards him through the Sword Formation.

For a Qi Sea cultivator at the ninth stage, death would be instantaneous.

Even weaker Golden Core cultivators would be injured.

But who was Wu Yuan? He was a body-refining expert; this level of impact felt like a tickle.

Nothing to fear!

"Kill! Kill them!" The red-haired child with a single horn continued to shout.

Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh!

The three large black figures, like lightning, with arms resembling divine knives, crazily attacked Wu Yuan.

"Hua!" The earth-yellow divine sword shadows whistled.

"Pong~" "Pong~" "Pong~" In almost the blink of an eye, dozens of collisions occurred, causing the entire room to vibrate, yet neither side could overcome the other.

Even the residual shockwaves couldn't leave a mark on the walls.

"These puppets, their attacks aren't too strong, but their bodies are incredibly tough. Despite multiple direct collisions, there's no visible damage on their surfaces." Wu Yuan became more alarmed as the battle continued.

Escape?

Impossible!

Although the three large black figures were repeatedly blasted away, they firmly guarded the door, giving Wu Yuan no chance to break through.

"You can't escape; you're doomed." The red-haired child with a single horn continued to taunt.

Wu Yuan completely ignored him.

"Sword Formation, Condense!"

Suddenly, around Wu Yuan, numerous powerful azure-colored flying swords emerged once again. Nine in total, they gathered to form a sword formation.

These were the six-grade flying swords of the wind attribute, one of the four sets of sword formations obtained from Jin Quan.

Though not a perfect match and inferior to his life-bound flying swords, when fully activated by Wu Yuan, they still displayed immense power.

"Go!"

The nine flying swords faintly merged, creating a sword composed of intertwined blue and earth-yellow energies that rushed towards one of the black puppets.

"Boom rumble rumble~"

Despite the puppet repeatedly swinging its arms to attack, Wu Yuan's newly summoned Sword Formation effectively suppressed it.

Immediately.

Wu Yuan, within the life-bound flying sword formation, experienced a sudden decrease in pressure.

"These puppets, could they have no weaknesses at all?" Wu Yuan's eyes turned cold.

Although he seemed to be without any loss, he was actually manipulating two large sword formations, which imposed a tremendous burden on his spiritual power and mana.

Why didn't Jin Quan use so many flying sword treasures when he had them back then?

Simply put, his spiritual power wasn't strong enough.

Like a powerful army that needs a continuous supply of abundant provisions and equipment to unleash its might; otherwise, it cannot have formidable combat power.

In the repeated clashes, in a short moment, Wu Yuan controlled two large sword formations, engaging in hundreds of exchanges with the three black puppets, consuming over thirty percent of his true essence.

Even with a third-grade Immortal Foundation, Wu Yuan was still just at the third stage of the Qi Sea. Simultaneously controlling so many flying swords was a staggering expenditure.

Suddenly.

"Hmm?" A trace of surprise flashed in Wu Yuan's eyes.

Buzz~ Buzz~ Buzz~ The formidable puppets, resembling three black phantoms, almost instantly stopped and fell to the ground, their crimson eyes all closing simultaneously.

Completely motionless!

As if plunged into a deep slumber.

"What's going on?" Wu Yuan was extremely vigilant, and he glanced at the red single-horned child nearby.

At this moment, the red single-horned child's face had turned ashen.

"Haha! Haha!"

Suddenly, the red-haired single-horned child burst into laughter. Amidst the laughter, there was a hint of sadness and unwillingness. "If it weren't for the long time that has passed and the depletion of source crystals to maintain the operation of the Delayed Green Palace, making it impossible for these fourth-grade puppets to maintain their strength, unable even to perform their ultimate moves, how could you have persisted for so long?"

"You win!"

"You, you lowly witch, you won." The red-haired single-horned child stared at Wu Yuan, full of unwillingness and despair.

Wu Yuan was filled with confusion, silently listening.

A lowly witch?

Was the other party targeting him not because he killed Jin Quan, but because he was a witch cultivator? Wu Yuan speculated.

At the same time, Wu Yuan felt that the spiritual artifact seemed to be going mad.

"Haha, I disappointed Master's expectations."

"The inheritor is dead, and ultimately, even the Delayed Green Palace is going to be taken away by you, you lowly witch." The red-haired single-horned child, though a virtual shadow, seemed like a vivid living being with vibrant emotions, wailing.

Even illusory tears flowed from his eyes.

"However, Witch Cultivator, you are powerful, but you won't get more from me, and I won't acknowledge you as my master." The red-haired single-horned child roared at Wu Yuan.

Suddenly.

"Pong~" Silently, the virtual shadow of the red-haired single-horned child suddenly burst open, turning into countless points of light and dissipating.

Wu Yuan was stunned.

In this small room, complete silence was restored.

After a while.

"Master, this spiritual artifact seems to have self-destructed." Little Black's voice echoed in Wu Yuan's mind.

"Self-destruction? Suicide?" Wu Yuan sighed inwardly.

Spiritual artifacts have distinctions; some have weak intelligence and only follow commands without understanding flexibility.

Some spiritual artifacts possess wisdom, emotions, joys, sorrows, and angers.

Like the realm master, they can make certain adjustments in different situations without violating principles, demonstrating high intelligence.

This red-haired single-horned child, despite appearing like a child, has actually existed for countless millennia.

Equally rich in emotions.

It should be very loyal to its master.

"Spiritual artifacts always follow their masters. It seems that this Clear Prolong True Man and the witch lineage are enemies, significant enemies," Wu Yuan thought to himself.

"Even encountering unfamiliar witches, they want to kill directly."

"And Jin Quan should be the true successor of Clear Prolong True Man." Wu Yuan made a rough speculation.

Now that the red-haired single-horned child has dissipated, and Jin Quan has died.

These secrets will be buried in the passage of time, and no one will ever know.

"The inheritance left by Clear Prolong True Man has also been cut off." Wu Yuan gained some insights; this is the norm.

There is no continuity between life and death.

Destruction and complete severance are the norms.

As for Wu Yuan? He is not the successor of Clear Prolong True Man; to some extent, he is the 'destroyer.'

He destroyed the inheritance of a Purple Mansion True Man.

"In the future, when venturing again, I must be more careful." Wu Yuan thought to himself.

He wouldn't naively believe that all ruins are benevolent.

Some powerful cultivators are willing to destroy geniuses.

Some cultivators, harboring resentment towards the world before their death, deliberately set up killing formations in their caves to specifically kill those who come later.

Some cultivators have extreme hostility towards practitioners of a certain sect.

The possibilities are endless!

Like this time venturing into the Delayed Green Palace, even if it is a calamity, if a weaker witch cultivator had come, they might have died.

Wu Yuan purely had strong strength.

"Spiritual artifact suicide, but it cannot destroy the entire Delayed Green Palace." Wu Yuan concentrated, his divine consciousness spreading out, continuing to comprehend the secret patterns on the four walls.

He was also worried that the red-haired single-horned child intentionally disguised its 'suicide,' perhaps with other means.

However.

As far as Wu Yuan and Little Black knew, as long as one controlled the central hub and recognized the master, they could control the situation.

Time passed second by second.

After fifteen minutes.

"Hmm~" The vast and immense palace trembled slightly, as if it were cheering and celebrating.

"Master, have you completed the acknowledgment?" Little Black exclaimed in surprise. "So fast! This is a high-grade spiritual tool, and acknowledging a master is very difficult."

"Yes, acknowledged." Wu Yuan smiled faintly.

Being able to acknowledge the master so quickly was also relying on his powerful spiritual consciousness.

"Perception!"

Wu Yuan's consciousness, through the palace's core source, quickly sensed every part of the palace.

The core source, main hall, puppet hall, meditation hall... dozens of halls of various sizes.

"This palace is actually a flying vessel cave, refined at a great cost by Clear Prolong True Man?" Wu Yuan thought to himself.

Flying vessel artifacts come in many types.

There are those specifically designed for swift travel, mostly inscribed with arrays and secret patterns to enhance flight speed.

There are dedicated transport vessels, with a massive size, relatively fragile, and even equipped with folding spaces inside, capable of storing vast amounts of supplies.

Some advanced flying vessels can accommodate numerous ordinary people and carry the culture of a civilization.

There are war-oriented flying vessels, with extremely strong offensive capabilities, loaded with incredibly powerful weapons. According to Wu Yuan's knowledge from the Immortal Records, some legendary war-oriented flying vessels could potentially annihilate an entire world with a single strike from their core weapons.

On the other hand, cave mansion flying vessels are versatile and multi-functional.

Defense, mobility, and various auxiliary halls make it suitable for a practitioner's long-term cultivation.

"A second-grade cave mansion flying vessel, in terms of value, is probably close to a Radiant Crystal Immortal Realm," Wu Yuan marveled.

This is the greatest treasure left by Clear Prolong True Man.

Although both are second-grade, the value of 'Delayed Green Palace' is many times higher than a similar flying sword, belonging to completely different tiers.

"Depleted source crystals?" Wu Yuan finally understood why the red-haired single-horned child was so unwilling before its self-destruction.

The puppet hall at the bottom of the flying vessel actually housed eight guardian puppets, all of which were fourth-grade 'Black Rock Puppets.'

Fourth-grade represents the peak strength comparable to a Spiritual Body in the nine levels (Nine-level Foundation Establishment). Their combat power is extremely astonishing.

However, puppets are not living beings and cannot autonomously absorb the spiritual energy of heaven and earth. Once they engage in battle, the energy consumption is incredibly high.

Even source stones cannot drive them.

Only source crystals with extremely high purity can activate them.

The Delayed Green Palace, having been around for so long, has exhausted much of its reserved source crystals.

Only enough for the three Black Rock Puppets to act, and their duration is very short.

So, this was the reason why the red-haired single-horned child initially wanted to deceive Wu Yuan into leaving.

It still harbored some hope and did not want to waste precious source crystals on Wu Yuan.

"Hmm? What's this?" Wu Yuan suddenly froze.

He sensed that there was a mysterious area directly below the flying vessel.

---

PS: First update

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 185: Spatial Silver Towers (Seeking Subscriptions)

"What's this?" Wu Yuan was astonished.

Previously, as the Delayed Green Palace served as a flying vessel artifact, its walls and hull were specially reinforced with arrays, effectively blocking divine sense. Therefore, Wu Yuan had not detected it before.

However, now that Wu Yuan had initially gained control of the Delayed Green Palace, his divine sense and the flying vessel's origin had merged. Thus, his divine sense could naturally spread without hindrance.

Naturally, he quickly sensed the mysterious area directly beneath the Delayed Green Palace. The things inside both shocked and excited Wu Yuan.

Swoosh!

Wu Yuan swiftly flew out of the control room at a glance, then rushed into another passage.

This passage connected various halls.

The entire Delayed Green Palace could be roughly divided into three major areas: the cultivation area, storage area, and rest area.

Wu Yuan was heading towards the 'cultivation area,' where various halls such as dedicated meditation chambers were located.

However, Wu Yuan paid no attention, passing through numerous halls, and went all the way along the passage.

Eventually, Wu Yuan reached the bottom of the Delayed Green Palace. Here, there was also a hatch with a length and width exceeding four meters.

If Wu Yuan were not already the master of the flying vessel, it would be challenging to perceive this hatch even through surface examination or divine sense probing.

This was the quality of a high-grade magical treasure.

If observed by ordinary people, they would only see the entire flying vessel palace as completely sealed, unable to find a single crack.

"Open," Wu Yuan thought.

To activate the entire Delayed Green Palace required a tremendous amount of energy. Wu Yuan's current cultivation was far from having such pure energy.

However, merely opening the hatch required very little energy.

Hum~ Silently, the hatch opened.

Seeing this scene, Wu Yuan sighed inwardly.

Although the Delayed Green Palace was a second-grade flying vessel, the erosion of time could not be avoided. After ten thousand years, it could still maintain such a perfect condition, and the vanished spiritual being probably played a significant role in this.

Swoosh~ Little Black wrapped around Wu Yuan's arm and popped out, lifting its head to gaze at the enormous space below. It, too, was astonished. "Master, there's a teleportation array here?"

"Mmm." Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

In one step, he stepped out of the hatch.

His gaze swept around.

Indeed, directly below the Delayed Green Palace, in this mysterious area, a square space with a diameter of approximately fifty meters had been excavated.

On all sides, sturdy rocks supported the space, and invisible forces connected all the rocks, making them appear as one.

"It's a formation, protecting this area to prevent rocks and soil from collapsing and burying it from all sides," Wu Yuan quickly discerned with his powerful divine sense.

However, the majority of Wu Yuan's attention was on the four silver towers in the distance. The towers were identical, with a base diameter of over ten meters and a height of about twenty meters, with slight decay on the outer layer.

The four towers were close together.

Only the center left a space.

Black chains connected the four silver towers, giving the impression that they were one integrated structure.

"Yes."

"It's a teleportation array, and judging from the size of the teleportation silver towers, it should be a mid-grade teleportation array," Wu Yuan whispered. "Most likely, it can directly teleport out of the Xia Mountain world. I never expected that there would be a teleportation array hidden here."

Teleportation arrays!

Extremely rare, involving profound applications of spatial mysteries.

Even a Purple Mansion Real person would have no possibility of directly constructing one.

Typically, cultivators would purchase 'Spatial Silver Towers' from major forces and then input spatial coordinates to connect them.

Why are they so valuable?

Mainly due to the materials; spatial mithril is highly sensitive to spatial fluctuations, making it the exclusive material for manufacturing Spatial Silver Towers.

Generally speaking, in 'small worlds' like the Xia Mountain world, teleportation arrays are unnecessary for internal communication.

Therefore, Wu Yuan was so shocked.

He had never expected that there would be a precious teleportation array hidden in the Central Continent.

"I originally thought that the Delayed Green Palace was the biggest gain. Now, looking at it, the Spatial Silver Towers of this teleportation array are the real treasures," Wu Yuan sighed.

Any of the four Spatial Silver Towers could easily be exchanged for the Delayed Green Palace.

The value was astounding.

"So many years have passed." Wu Yuan stepped to the side of the teleportation array, raised his hand, and placed it on the surface of the silver tower.

Gently brushing over it.

Sweeping away the dust, revealing the smooth and new surface of the silver tower underneath.

"Clear!" Wu Yuan thought, and the once dusty four silver towers had countless dust particles flying up.

The silver towers quickly became as bright as new.

"Indeed, just as the legends say, as long as there is no external damage, Spatial Silver Towers, even after a million or ten million years, still appear brand new," Wu Yuan marveled to himself.

Even a first-grade magical treasure would decay after a million years.

However, Spatial Silver Towers could almost disregard the erosion of time.

It truly demonstrated their value.

"Master."

Little Black circled around the entire teleportation array, observing excitedly. "This teleportation array has not been moved, and its teleportation array patterns should still be intact and functional."

"You can try it," Little Black suggested. "Perhaps, we can leave the Xia Mountain world before reaching the Mountain and River Realm."

For Little Black, possessing vast inherited memories, it was inherently interested in the vast and endless river of time and space.

This was innate!

"Mmm," Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

Swoosh!

Without much hesitation, Wu Yuan's abundant thoughts surged into the teleportation array area, especially the base of the central pedestal of the four Spatial Silver Towers and the control rooms between the paired towers.

Soon.

Wu Yuan became familiar with the teleportation array before him and gradually understood its internal operation rules.

It wasn't because Wu Yuan was exceptionally clever.

It was the information from the immortal scroll, coupled with Little Black's information transmission, that gave Wu Yuan a basic understanding of the teleportation array.

Combined with the thinking speed at the Yang Spirit level, which was tens of thousands of times faster than ordinary people, he naturally quickly figured out the entire teleportation array.

"Master, how is it?" Little Black asked continuously.

"No danger, and it can still be used," Wu Yuan said solemnly. "However, of the nine teleportation coordinates initially recorded in the array, eight have already failed, leaving only one."

The teleportation process of the teleportation array requires a mutual connection between two teleportation arrays.

In other words,

This teleportation array in front of us once had connections with teleportation arrays in nine different regions. They could mutually teleport, but over the long years, eight of them might have been abandoned or destroyed.

Only one remains connected.

"One?" Little Black was stunned.

"The designation on the teleportation array is 'LeavingSky0068,' and its specific meaning is unclear," Wu Yuan shook his head slightly.

Little Black was also puzzled.

Leaving Sky? Does it have any special meaning?

"During the insect-demon catastrophe, when Jin Quan was able to sit securely on the fishing platform, it was probably because of this teleportation array," flashed through Wu Yuan's mind.

Having such an escape route, Jin Quan wouldn't be willing to go all out.

Unlike other Tian Bang experts on the Central Continent, he had a better choice.

Swoosh!

Wu Yuan surveyed the entire teleportation array and said, "Let's go, Little Black, don't wander around, let's go back."

Little Black continued to ask, "What about this teleportation array?"

"Leave it here," Wu Yuan shook his head, "including the Delayed Green Palace, for now, they have to stay here."

Whether it's the teleportation array or this Delayed Green Palace flying ship, to use them, one needs either true elemental power comparable to the Purple Mansion Realm infused for energy or source crystals as an energy source.

Source crystals are much purer energy sources than high-quality source stones in Wu Yuan's hands, but he doesn't have such high-quality treasures at the moment.

So, Wu Yuan can only watch the teleportation array and the Delayed Green Palace for now.

Can't use them!

Moreover, for a teleportation array like this, Wu Yuan only figured out how it operates.

But once activated, where exactly is the so-called 'LeavingSky0068' pointing to?

Without certainty, Wu Yuan wouldn't easily use it, even if he wanted to leave the Central Continent.

As for the Delayed Green Palace?

Different from those small flying ships.

This kind of large flying ship magical treasure cannot be reduced in size.

In short, even if Wu Yuan wants to put it away, he doesn't have a storage magical treasure with such a huge space.

The Godly Palace Storage?

Even a Godly Palace at the Tong Xuan Realm cannot accommodate such a massive storage magical treasure.

So, he can only leave it for now.

"However, it's not entirely without gains. When my strength grows stronger and reaches the Ling Shen Realm, the Godly Palace will be more extensive, and I can naturally put away this Delayed Green Palace," Wu Yuan muttered, "As for the teleportation array?"

Although Wu Yuan also desires to explore the vast world outside,

For now, his cultivation is still progressing, plus the destination of the teleportation array is unknown.

There's no need to take unnecessary risks for the time being.

...

Leaving the underground teleportation array, Wu Yuan returned to the Delayed Green Palace and quickly searched through each hall again.

But Wu Yuan had to admit that Jin Quan had really looted everything clean.

Nothing was left behind.

Eventually,

Wu Yuan arrived at the meditation room, which wasn't large, with a radius of only about ten to twenty meters, similarly empty.

Only a jade platform was placed in the center.

"Hu!" Wu Yuan sat cross-legged and immediately felt that many complicated thoughts dissipated, making him calm.

"This jade platform is similar in effect to the one in the Meditation Room at the Ding Wu Realm," Wu Yuan sighed to himself, "However, the effect of this jade platform in the Delayed Green Palace seems to be better."

"Practicing and contemplating the mysteries of the earth here will be faster."

However, Wu Yuan didn't know.

The Clear Yan True Person of the past, although far inferior to the top experts of the later peak tribe,

He was one of the peak powerhouses in the Xia Mountain world, refining the Delayed Green Palace as his lair.

As for the Ding Wu Realm?

It's just a new witch cultivation base of the later peak tribe. Although there are many treasures, it might not be comparable to Clear Yan True Person in certain aspects.

...

Darkness shrouded the earth, but the Central Continent Immortal Palace remained brightly lit.

Inside a palace.

"Young Master." Fang Xia bowed, wearing a golden robe.

"Hmm." Wu Yuan nodded slightly. "Old Fang, has the Central Continent Guard been fully established?"

"Yes." Fang Xia nodded repeatedly.

The Central Continent Guard is an organization that all the current top experts and grandmasters on the Central Continent must join. These experts may not genuinely want to submit to Wu Yuan.

The Teng Snake Guard, on the other hand, recruits a large number of talented children and teenagers, nurturing them from a young age.

"Within the Central Continent Immortal Palace, establish a 'Dao Cang Tower.' I will place a large number of secret and classical contents in the Dao Cang Tower, allowing top experts from across the continent to read them," Wu Yuan said, "to guide them and enhance their strength."

"Dao Cang Tower?" Fang Xia nodded and said, "Alright, major immortal sects in the Great Realm simultaneously establish Dao Cang Towers in both reality and the Divine Virtual Realm."

The Central Continent Immortal Palace in the hands of a Martial Sage is just a treasure for communication.

But for Wu Yuan, who has a very high vision, the potential uses of the Divine Virtual Realm far exceed this.

Communication and transmission? Only the basic functions of the Divine Virtual Realm.

With a little expansion, the Divine Virtual Realm can store a large number of secret books and intelligence messages, adjusting the reading permissions of any expert at any time.

Compared to paper scrolls and even immortal scrolls, there are significant advantages in convenience.

This is still due to the fact that the Central Continent Immortal Palace is only an eighth-rank Divine Virtual Realm.

If it were a higher-level Divine Virtual Realm, it could continuously collect a large amount of data for alchemy simulations, refining simulations, talisman crafting simulations, and even combat simulations, among other things.

Incredibly magical.

Some of the top Divine Virtual Realms can completely rival the real world in all aspects, making the illusion nearly indistinguishable from reality.

Of course, for the current Central Continent Immortal Palace, those are still distant possibilities.

"Young Master, are the classics and techniques in the Dao Cang Tower free to read?" Fang Xia asked.

"No."

"Some basic teachings are free," Wu Yuan shook his head. "Martial arts techniques like 'Tiger and Leopard Bone Cultivation' and 'Dragon Transformation Marrow Cleansing Technique' are all freely taught, so that everyone on the continent can practice martial arts."

"Some simple Qi cultivation techniques will also be widely taught without being guarded as a treasure."

"But for more profound techniques, I will categorize them," Wu Yuan said. "You must make enough contributions to access and comprehend them."

"Contributions? What kind of contributions?" Fang Xia asked.

"Besides setting up some common trial tasks and the like," Wu Yuan said, "The greatest contribution is exploration! Explore throughout the entire continent."

"Explore the sea."

"Explore source stone veins, precious metal veins."

"We will tell you the specific information and requirements later; this is the general direction," Wu Yuan said.

In source stone veins, there might be a small amount of source crystals.

For the metamorphosis of the personal flying sword, it requires the consumption of some precious metals, which can only be obtained from large veins.

An important role of a powerhouse establishing a force is to collect resources.

---

Note: The abbreviation "ps" stands for "postscript," and "第二更" means "second update" or "second release." It indicates additional content or updates to a chapter.