Автор: sergey

The time has come! Old Man Feng loudly yelled, Lay down the formation and open the cauldron!

Soon after this was said, two of the dozen Core Formation cultivators standing behind them shot towards either side of the cauldron. As for the others, they took to the air and raised a sparkling blue formation plate above their heads.

A hum sounded out and a barrier of blue light appeared, enveloping most of the stage from its center.

As for the two middle-aged Core Formation cultivators at the side of the huge cauldron, they wordlessly formed hand incantations as soon as they saw the light barrier appear and shot several streaks of spell seals at the large cauldron. The cauldron lid began to slightly trembled as rainbow light leaked through the openings, releasing a faint hum. Then the lid began to slowly float into the air as if it weight a thousand kilograms.

As for the youth that was kowtowing, he now stood up and firmly stared at the huge cauldron.

Suddenly, a ball of blinding white light shot out from the cauldron and soared into the sky. Without another thought, the youth gave chase in a streak of yellow light.

The white light flew to the top of the barrier and knocked against it, but the blue light barrier held firm, the impact had only caused it to lightly tremble.

At that moment, the youth had caught up to the white streak of light and reached out to grab it. However, the white light was very intelligent and made a sudden turn, causing the youths face to turn gloomy as he pursuit it once more. In the blink of an eye, a white and yellow streak of light was spiralling inside the light barrier like a shooting star chasing after the moon. freeebnovl.cm

The several hundred of Foundation Establishment cultivators stared at the scene with wide eyes. As for the Nascent Soul elders, they were all indifferently standing there and would occasionally speak with one another.

Han Li squinted his eyes and lazily gazed at everything that was happening.

It was clear that the disciple inside the light barrier had yet to refine a magic treasure of his own. Rather, he was purely relying on a top grade flying magic tool to pursue the Yin Yang Pagoda, so it was only natural that he was behind in speed. However, this did not matter much because while the Yin Yang Pagoda was rather fast, it was quickly running out of spiritual power. It could only maintain its current speed for a few more minutes at most before the youth would easily capture it. This was precisely what the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion elders had intended, if the disciple managed to grab the pagoda too quickly, the master recognition ceremony for the treasure wouldve been nothing to behold.

With that thought, Han Li squinted his eyes once more. Although the white light was exceptionally blinding, he was able to clearly see the appearance of the treasure with his Brightsight Spirit Eyes.

The treasure appeared to be a pure white pagoda of exquisite detail that was three inches large. Han Li wasnt able to make out any other details about the treasure apart from this.

At that moment, Han Li heard a womans voice transmission, Fellow Daoist Han, what do you think about the Hundred Possibilities Pavilions disciple. Do you think he can enter Nascent Soul stage?

In his surprise, he slowly turned around and found that the woman title Brightscent had walked behind him at an unknown time. She was giving him an aloof smile.

Han Li looked at the womans face and calmly said, I share the same opinion with Fellow Daoist Pyre. But if the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion can acquire a bit of medicine, the disciple will have a good chance at forming a Nascent Soul.

But it stands to mention that no matter how great this disciples aptitude may be, he will never reach the point of Fellow Daoist Hans world-shaking abilities. The woman smiled at Han Li and an unusual expression appeared on her face as she spoke. I heard that in Devilfall Valley, Fellow Daoist Han was able to dispatch one of two Elder Devils alone. With this feat alone, your abilities are proven to be no lesser than the three Great Heavenly South Cultivators.

When Han Li heard this, he pondered for a moment and replied, Fellow Daoist Brightscent, you flatter me. If it werent for the assistance of the other Fellow Daoists present, I wouldnt have been able to fight the Elder Devil. Furthermore, I wasnt even the one to slay the Elder Devil. It had died inside the spatial pocket as a matter of luck.

Fellow Daoist Han is far too modest. The young woman brushed away the hair covering her face in an elegant motion and wore a mysterious coquettish smile as she spoke. I suppose Ill drop that subject, but dont tell me that escaping from a Moulan Divine Sage and slaying a Jin Empire Devil Sect Elder were just rumors! I heard that the Jin Empire devil cultivator was at the peak of mid Nascent Soul stage. Is this true?

As Han Lis gaze wandered, the woman swept her sleeve and released a flowery fragrance in Han Lis expression. When he smelled it, he felt his mind relax and felt intimately close to the woman. He couldnt help but want to answer her question.

Bewitchments techniques? But there were no signs, her eyes were clear. But her flowery fragrance does seem odd.

Before Han Li condensed a Nascent Soul, he encountered several female cultivators that were proficient in bewitchment techniques. In nearly an instant, he discovered something odd about himself and detected the womans hidden tricks. However, her calm spiritual Qi fluctuations indicated that this was the result of the odd fragrance.

Fellow Daoist Brighscent knows quite a bit. Those two events were simply a matter of luck and arent worth mentioning. However, Ive heard a bit about Fellow Daoist Brightscent from my martial brothers as well. I heard that you cultivated the Hundredbloom Yangspring Arts, an intangible technique that can subdue enemies with inconceivable might.

What? Brightscents smile froze. Fellow Daoist Cheng know about the might of the Hundredbloom Yangspring Arts? Although many knew about her cultivation art, few people knew of its true abilities and scarcely anyone was able to cultivate it.

Han Li smiled, but just as he thought about what to say, his expression changed and he suddenly raised his head to the sky. The woman saw Han Li and followed his stare, but all she saw was clear skies.

The woman frowned and looked at Han Li with a trace of bafflement.

However, Han Li wasnt paying the woman any attention. Rather, his expression only grew more stern. In an instant, he turned his head to Eccentric Pyre and loudly yelled, Fellow Daoist Pyre, I fear that someone has come to visit. Lets go out and welcome them.

The others hastily looked around with astonishment. Eccentric Pyre appeared particularly baffled as he turned his head. A guest? Who is it?

Han Li sighed. But before he could said anything, Eccentric Jins expression changed and his gaze turned to where Han Li originally looked. He nervously said, There is someone that is coming and from his powerful spiritual Qi fluctuations, they… they should be a late Nascent Soul cultivator.

When Eccentric Jin finished speaking, a deep and clear voice soon shook the skies, The Great Truth Sects Master Sunreach has come to pay a visit. Is Fellow Daoist Pyre here?

So it is Master Sunreach? Why has such an important person come here? Eccentric Pyre and the others glanced at each other with alarm, not knowing why one of the three Great Heavenly South cultivators have arrived. None of the three sects had invited him.

Han Li rubbed his chin and wore a pensive expression.

The Heavenly Dao Alliance and the Righteous Dao didnt have a good relationship by any means, but Master Sunreach shouldnt hold any ill intent for this visit as he hadnt concealed his presence when he had arrived. This had allowed Han Li to easily sense him from a distance.

Lets go and welcome Fellow Daoist Sunreach! Eccentric Pyre took the lead and quickly flew forward.

The others raised no objection as they didnt believe Master Sunreach meant them any harm. As powerful as he may be, he would find it difficult to take them all on.

The elders werent able to further attend the master recognition ceremony and they all emerged from the light barrier and made their way to the border of the sects great formation.

Along the way, Han Li sensed that Brightscent seemed to be very interested in him and would occasionally steal a glance at him. Han Li inwardly snorted as a result. If the woman kept looking for trouble, he didnt mind teaching her a lesson.

When they arrived at the grand formation, Eccentric Pyre and his two junior martial brothers opened a passage through the restriction, allowing a streak of light to fly in. The light faded away to reveal a middle-aged Daoist priest possessing an otherworldly presence.

As Han Li saw his flawless appearance and the longsword he wore on his back, it was obvious at a glance that he was Master Sunreach.

When Master Sunreach appeared, all the present cultivators saluted him, but he quickly swept his gaze past them before focusing on Han Li.

Master Sunreach grinned and called out to him with a chuckle, Fellow Daoist Han is here as expected. Just after I left my sect, I acquired information that you were visiting the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion and rushed over here.

What? Master Sunreach has come to find me? Han Li pursed his lips and wore an odd expression.

Thats right! Master Sunreach said with a smile, This humble Daoist had pressing matters to attend to in the State of Xi but I didnt think Id hear that Brother Han has made a safe return. As soon as I heard this, I rushed over to have a chat.

It seemed when I was looking for information at few market cities, there were people that recognized me. But surely Fellow Daoist Sunreach didnt rush to seek me out just to chat? Han Li puzzlingly asked.

The matter will take some time to explain. Master Sunreach let out a long sigh before wearing a friendly face. He then said with a courteous tone, Fellow Daoists, Fellow Daoist Han and I have a few matters to talk about. I hope you wont mind.

Eccentric Pyre forced a smile and said, Since Brother Sunreach has come to see Fellow Daoist Han, there is no problem of course. Well simply wait at the side.

When Han Li saw these cultivators, he could tell that the old man with the radiant eyes was most likely Eccentric Jin. After all, he was the only one amongst them that was at mid-Nascent Soul stage, and near its peak nonetheless.

When the tangle-haired old man entered the hall, he swept his gaze past the other before focusing on Han Li with a trace of surprise betraying from his face.

Wearing an odd expression, the tangle-haired old man slowly said, So you must be Fellow Daoist Han! Ive long heard of your grand reputation, but werent you supposed to be an early Nascent Soul cultivator? How could you advance an entire cultivation level so quickly?

Han Li stood up to salute him and said, So you must be Brother Jin. I mustve given you quite a surprise. Ive only entered mid-Nascent Soul stage recently.

When Eccentric Jin heard him, his heart dropped. After a moment of silence, he wryly smiled and said, As soon as I emerged from seclusion, I heard that Fellow Daoist Han possessed many inconceivable abilities. Although the rumors were somewhat exaggerated, they dont appear too far off.

Han Li smiled, but before he could say something else, Senior Martial Brother Cheng stood up and chuckled. He said with a cordial tone, Fellow Daoist Jin, youve been staring at Han Li as soon as youve arrived. Why dont you sit down and have a proper chat with us?

Eccentric Jin laughed and wore a false grin, saying, I hope Fellow Daoist Cheng doesnt take offense, I had no interest in seeing you. Ive only come because I was curious about the illustrious reputation of your Junior Martial Brother Han.

Is that so? Senior Martial Brother Cheng asked with a beaming smile. Now that youve seen Junior Martial Brother Han, Im sure you arent disappointed.

Eccentric Jin looked at Senior Martial Brother Cheng with a cold smile and laughed. Of course Im not disappointed. Rather, he even exceeded my expectations. With Fellow Daoist Han, the Drifting Cloud Sect will rise in prominence. However, I also heard that Brother Han wasnt truly a disciple that had emerged from your sect. Rather, he originated from Yellow Maple Valley!

Even if Junior Martial Brother Han was once related to Yellow Maple Valley, why does that matter? He is now an elder of our Drifting Cloud Sect. Senior Martial Brother Cheng calmly stated.

Eccentric Jin rolled his eyes when he heard this, but was interrupted by Old Man Feng before he could continue, Fellow Daoists, lets not be too focused on conversation. Our Hundred Possibilities Pavilion has acquired some spirit fruit with a pleasant scent. Please try them. With that said, he clapped his hand and a group of young female disciples waiting outside walked inside with trays of oval scarlet spirit fruits.

When this happened, Eccentric Jin and Senior Martial Brother Cheng sat down, not daring to slight their host.

Once the female disciples finished laying out the fruit, Old Man Feng said, These are Fire Pomegranates, a disciple of our sect had collected them from an unknown area. Their flesh is sweet and juicy. If an ordinary mortal were to consume them, they would experience an improvement in sight.

Han Li and the others have never seen such a fruit and they all began to taste them. As expected, they tasted quite sweet and contained quite a bit of worldly Qi in them. Han Li enjoyed them in particular and ate them in quick succession.

Old Man Ding glanced at the female Ancient Sword Sect cultivator before speaking with a smile, This person must be Fellow Daoist Brightscent. Ive heard your magic treasures were unordinary and was crafted from ten thousand year old Yellow Wood. I also heard you cultivate the top grade wood attribute cultivation art, the Hundredbloom Yangspring Arts. Would you happen to know why hasnt Fellow Daoist Fire Dragon come?

Thats right, I am Brightscent. Senior Martial Brother Fire Dragon had heard news that someone was selling eggs for Fire Crystal Beasts at the Lavender Cloud Mountains and he left the sect several months prior. Although Ive entered Nascent Soul stage about fifty years ago, Ive very rarely met with others. Now that weve met, I hope you Fellow Daoists can provide me with guidance. Although the woman didnt appear remarkably beautiful, each and every one of her movements contained a gentle elegance and her body emitted a faint flowery fragrance. One couldnt help but gain a good impression of her.

When the woman finished talking, her gaze turned to Han Li with quite a bit of interest. Han Li unconsciously frowned for a moment in response.

With the fruits eaten, the three sects elders began to chat.

As Han Lis two Senior Martial Brothers subtly contended with the others through their words, he sat quietly and only occasionally spoke. But due to Han Lis thunderous reputation, the elders of the Ancient Sword Sect and Hundred Possibilities Pavilion were particularly mindful of Han Lis actions, attempting to see if they concealed any hidden meaning.

Just as their chat continued, red light suddenly flashed from outside the hall, revealing a purple-robed middle-aged man. He had thick eyebrows, big eyes, and an imposing aura. At a glance, one could tell he was a man of authority.

As soon as this person appeared at the halls entrance, Old Man Feng and Ding stood up. Senior Martial Brother Pyre, the Fellow Daoists of the Drifting Cloud Sect and Ancient Sword Sect have arrived. Are the preparations for the ceremony complete?

En, The middle-aged man grunted and swept his gaze across everyone in the hall. Everything has been arranged. Fellow Daoists, lets go and attend the ceremony.

At that moment, the other cultivators in the hall all stood up and welcomed him. As he was the grand elder of the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion, they didnt dare to slight him.

Brother Pyre, youve finally come, Eccentric Jin called out to him with a friendly tone. Im not sure how much your Heavenfire Arts have improved. After this ceremony is over, we may as well swap some pointers.

Eccentric Pyre rolled his eyes at him and snorted. Forget it. Although my Heavenfire Arts are quite powerful, it is still an entire level below your techniques. If you wish to gain some experience, you had best find someone else.

At that moment, Senior Martial Brother Cheng introduced Han Li. Eccentric Pyre was greatly shocked by Han Lis quick rise to mid-Nascent Soul stage and spoke to him with much courtesy.

Soon after, Eccentric Pyre said nothing else and promptly invited the sect elders to attend the master recognition ceremony. As the others raised no objections, they walked out of the cave and arrived above the stone platform they had passed. At that moment, the nearby skies and mountains were completely empty apart from several hundred Foundation Establishment disciples standing in front of the huge pagoda, divided into their own separate groups. And at the very front of these Foundation Establishment disciples were a dozen Core Formation cultivators solemnly lined up side by side.

About thirty meters in front of the Core Formation cultivators was a cauldron with strange flame-like designs engraved all over it. It was about three meters wide, but short and shaped like a cube. But more strange of all was while there was nothing touching the cauldron, it was scarlet red and heated up the air thirty meters around it.

But all of this was of little notice to all the cultivators around it. All their eyes were focused on a young man three meters away from the cauldron.

The young man was kowtowing on a golden prayer mat as he chanted something. Because his head was lowered, it was difficult to see his face.

In the blink of an eye, Han Li and the other elders dropped down in front of the crowd of cultivators. The crowd became restless and the dozen Core Formation disciples immediately approached the elders and respectfully saluted them.

We pay our respects to our Martial Uncles and Seniors. After paying his respects, Old Man Fu 1 stepped forward and respectfully announced, Junior Martial Brother Wang has already immersed himself in paying his respects for nearly two hours. Soon he will begin to open the cauldron and conduct the ceremony.

Acknowledged. You may now go back. Eccentric Pyre nodded and brought the other elders to the very front to observe the kowtowing young man.

Eccentric Jin examined the disciple and said, Fellow Daoist Pyre, this is the disciple that reached Core Formation stage in less than a hundred years? His aptitude was already outstanding and now he is taking in the Yin Yang Pagoda as his bonded magic treasure. I suspect that in another three hundred years, your sect will gain another Nascent Soul cultivator.

Eccentric Pyre chuckled and said, Forming a Nascent Soul is only a matter of luck. An exceptional aptitude doesnt decide whether or not one can enter Nascent Soul stage. It merely increases their odds.

Eccentric Jin simply smiled when he heard this. The others remained silent as well.

The disciples behind them then noticed that their Martial Ancestor was present, bringing along many Nascent Soul cultivators as well. In the blink of an eye, the disciples of the platform suddenly held their breaths out of extremely carefulness and the platform became completely silent apart from the chanting of the kowtowing disciple.

Han Li listened to the words he chanted and discovered that they were merely common worshipping scripts, nothing out of the ordinary. It was unknown whether the sect elders were doing this to temper his will or if this was simply an odd sect tradition.

To these old Nascent Soul eccentrics, a year of cultivation wasnt much time. Naturally, waiting only a few more minutes until the ceremony started was an instant to them.

Just as Han Li thought the time for the ceremony was close by, the burning cauldron suddenly began to tremble and release a series of clear rings before brightly glowing with light. The temperature of the cauldrons surrounding suddenly rose as a wave of red flame shot out all around it.

Han Li and the other Nascent Soul cultivators were completely unaffected by the flames, emitting light around their bodies to block it, but the Foundation Establishment and Core Formation cultivators behind them had found the effort to be difficult. Their own barriers were unable to completely protect them against the scalding heat.

As for the young disciple that was kowtowing three meters away from the cauldron, he rigidly blocked the wave of flames with a fire-red barrier. He eventually took a deep breath and raised his head, looking at the huge cauldron through the flames.

The disciple had a delicate face and appeared to be a thin youth in his late twenties. Given the age he formed his golden core, it was no wonder why the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion elders were willing to bestow a treasure as formidable as the Yin Yang Pagoda over to him.

1 A Core Formation cultivator from the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion who presided over the Sword Trial Assembly in the past. More recently, he led Drifting Cloud Sect Elders to the elders meeting ground.

Under the guidance of Old Man Fu, Han Li and the others tread past the Hundred Possibilities Pavilions grand formation and entered the sect. Unlike last time where they descended to a plaza surrounded by mountains for the Sword Trial Assembly, they instead arrived at the large platform built on the side of the mountain.

At the center of this platform was a five story stone pagoda about three hundred meters tall. The mountain behind the pagoda reached up beyond the eye could see and was densely filled with holes. Occasionally, Hundred Possibilities Pavilion disciples would dart in and out of them like bees.

Old Man Fu didnt lead them to the pagoda. Instead, he brought them to the top of the mountain.

As they flew past the mountain, Senior Martial Brother Cheng gave Han Li an introduction, The mountain depths is a top grade reservoir of Earth Lung Fire. Not only is it far more efficient for tool refinement, but it is also incredibly beneficial for cultivators with fire-attribute techniques. As a result, many of their high-grade disciples actually construct cave residences deep inside it.

Han Li felt his heart stir when he heard this and his face revealed a pensive expression.

In the blink of an eye, they flew over three thousand meters high and eventually arrived at a huge isolated cave. It clearly wasnt somewhere a low-grade cultivator could travel. Apart from two old men, there were no other cultivators waiting to receive them.

When the three landed at the caves entrance, a red-haired dark-skinned old man called out to them, Brother Cheng! Fellow Daoist Lu! Ive been waiting for quite a while. I hope you two havent taken offense that I havent personally gone out to welcome you. And this must be Fellow Daoist Han! He is as young as expected. His future prospects are boundless. After a brief look at Han Li, he shouted out with alarm, Yi! Fellow Daoist Han has already entered mid-Nascent Soul stage? The shriveled old man with a stern face also revealed an expression of shock.

This seems to have come as a shock, Brother Feng. Senior Martial Brother Cheng chuckled and said, Junior Martial Brother Han had just entered mid-Nascent Soul stage. In the future, I hope youll be able to provide him with some guidance.

When the two Hundred Possibilities Pavilion Elders recovered from their shock, they glanced at each other and wryly smiled. Old Man Feng then replied, Us? Give guidance? Brother Cheng must be joking.

Han Li saluted the two and spoke with a polite tone, There is no need to be so modest. I merely cultivated quickly and my foundation is still unstable. In the future when there is something amiss with my cultivation, I hope you Fellow Daoists will be able to clear up my doubts.

When the two Hundred Possibilities Pavilion elders heard his reply, they gained a rather good impression of Han Li. The two invited the Drifting Cloud Sect Elders inside and then the Core Formation-stage guides took their leave.

The other Hundred Possibilities Pavilion elder said, Originally, Senior Martial Brother Pyre also wished to come to welcome you, but he is making his last preparations for the master recognition ceremony. I hope you three dont mind.

What is Brother Ding saying? Junior Martial Brother Lu and I have known you three for several hundreds of years. You dont have to be so considerate. But do you think you could tell us what is this magic treasure that requires such a grand master recognition ceremony?

Old Man Ding betrayed a slight trace of pride on his expression and he chuckled. It isnt an amazing treasure. It is simply something my Martial Brothers and I had spent three months refining, a Yin Yang Pagoda.

A Yin Yang Pagoda? Thats one of your sects three signature treasures! I recall that there was no one in your sect that was able to refine it in the past thousand years. Senior Martial Brother Chengs smile was replaced with an expression of shock.

That is why weve invited you Fellow Daoists to witness the master recognition ceremony. Although the Yin Yang Pagoda is one of our sects signature treasures, it cant amount to much in your eyes. Let alone the Ancient Sword Sect, but I heard that Senior Martial Brother Cheng acquired a few rare treasures himself. Old Man Feng chuckled and probingly asked, As for Fellow Daoist Hans sudden rise to mid-Nascent Soul stage, I suspect he also found something in Devilfall Valley, right?

Senior Martial Brother Cheng shook his head with intensity, Acquired a few treasures? Brother Feng has been listening to the rumors. Although I did acquire two ancient treasures inside Devilfall Valley, their power is only ordinary. They cant be compared to the Yin Yang Pagoda. As for Junior Martial Brother Hans affairs, Im not too sure on that.

I also acquired no powerful ancient treasures, but rather, I have many of my treasures destroyed in the valley. If it werent for the opportunity to raise my cultivation a stage, I fear my trip wouldve been in vain. Of course, Han Li didnt mention the Spirit Ether Garden in detail.

Fellow Daoist Hans sudden rise in cultivation must be a result of some treasures. Id be willing to hand over all my treasures if it meant I could increase my cultivation by another stage. Old Man Feng bitterly chuckled and spoke with a tone of admiration and self-mockery. Han Li smiled but said nothing else.

After they passed through a large garden with blooming white flowers, they were ushered into an exceptionally large hall.

The hall was over three hundred meters wide and the wall was embedded with sparkling golden crystals, each of them the size of a fist. Not only did they filled the hall with light, but they also gave it an air of luxury.

Please sit Fellow Daoists, Old Man Feng courteously said, Senior Martial Brother Pyre will come when he is finished. As for the Fellow Daoists from the Ancient Sword Sect, they should soon arrive as well.

As soon as Lu Luo sat down, he asked, I heard that the Ancient Sword Sects Elder Jin had emerged from prolonged seclusion and will be coming over. Is this true?

It is true. Fellow Daoist Jin had personally sent Senior Martial Brother Pyre a voice transmission talisman. He said he wished to attend, but… After saying that, Old Man Feng paused.

But what? Lu Luo bafflingly asked. Senior Martial Brother Cheng also look over with interest, but Han Li simply examined the large hall as if he werent paying attention.

But Fellow Daoist Jin will be wanting to meet Fellow Daoist Han Li. Old Man Ding glanced at Han Li and mysteriously smiled at him. After all, Brother Hans reputation is resounding and is now no less inferior than that of the Three Great Heavenly South Cultivators. He is also perhaps the top cultivator in our Heavenly Dao Alliance in reputation. Not to mention that hes now entered mid-Nascent Soul stage.

What? Senior Martial Brother Cheng frowned and unhappily said, Does Eccentric Jin want to test Junior Martial Brother Hans abilities? Has his bold temperament remained unchanged in his many years of seclusion?

Im not too sure of this. Old Man Ding honestly answered, But with Fellow Daoist Hans abilities, there shouldnt be anyone he holds in fear. To tell the truth, weve also never witnessed his abilities.

Lu Luos eyes flickered and he tapped the table, slowly saying, You mean to say that this meeting is actually a new contest for ranking.

It isnt wrong to think that, Old Man Feng said with a smile, However, us old folks from the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion havent changed much and we wont be contending against your two sects. But since Fellow Daoist Jin will be coming in the flesh, I imagine he will be wanting to test Fellow Daoist Hans abilities. He isnt willing to hand over the title of the strongest of the three sects over to you.

If you knew about that, why didnt you mention this in the invitation? This isnt excusable. Senior Martial Brother Cheng said with a frown. Lu Luos expression also turned sullen.

Fellow Daoists, dont be mistaken, Old Man Feng shook his hand and calmly said, This was only something we had guessed. Fellow Daoist Jin hasnt said anything about meeting Fellow Daoist Han. In our point of view, this meeting is only to decide which of the three sects will be top amongst their peers. Such a meeting only occurs once in a hundred years. And it stands to mention in addition to Fellow Daoist Han, there is also a new face in the Ancient Sword Sect, Fellow Daoist Brightscent. It will be good for everyone to meet each other.

Lu Luos expression relaxed after he heard this. As for Han Li, his expression remained unchanged from the very start, giving the two Hundred Possibilities Pavilion Elders a mysterious impression of him.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng quickly calmed down as well and when he thought to ask more about the Ancient Sword Sect, a voice transmission talisman suddenly flew into the hall in a red streak and dropped into Old Man Fengs hand.

Right after, all the eyes in the room unconsciously focused on him. Old Man Feng quickly glanced at the talisman before quickly standing up.

How timely, Old Man Feng said with regret, Please wait here for the time being. The Ancient Sword Sect will soon arrive and I will be going out to welcome them. Junior Martial Brother Ding will be here to keep you company. He then hurriedly walked out.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng and Lu Luo exchanged a glance and they wore a heavy expression.

Han Li didnt appear nervous or anxious at all. But if he remembered correctly, the Drifting Cloud Sect Elders were only on good terms with the Child Fire Dragon and had a poor relationship with all the other elders of the Ancient Sword Sect.

A short moment later, footsteps could be heard in the hall and Old Man Feng entered with three other cultivators, two men and one woman.

At the very front of the three cultivators was a tall and sturdy old man with grey messy hair. He had a rosy complexion and smooth skin, but his bright eyes displayed a savage cruelty. And most notably of all was the pair of extraordinarily large hands drooped at his sides. They were nearly as large as half an ordinary person.

Behind the old man stood a middle-aged man with a common appearance and a young woman with an air of dignity.

Han Li inwardly sighed. Although he acquired many spirit medicines from the ruins of the Spirit Ether Garden, none of them were capable of prolonging lifespan. All he could do was console him. There is no need for Senior Martial Brother Cheng to be so dejected. Perhaps youll come across some luck in a few years!

The old man shook his head with an indifferent expression. As it seemed he had already come to terms with his eventual death, Han Li dropped the topic and instead summoned a white jade slip into his hand.

Senior martial brothers, Ive remembered something, Han Li handed over the jade slip over to Senior Martial Brother Cheng and casually said, I need the sect disciples to go out and gather materials. Because there are many different materials, Ill take whatever amount they can acquire. They need only try their hardest. And so long as the cost of the material isnt outrageous, Im willing to pay the cost. Have the sect disciples come back to me for compensation.

Let me take a look! Lu Luo took the jade slip with interest and immersed his jade slip into it, his face revealing an odd expression.

No wonder you said they need only try their hardest, Lu Luo said with a shock. Most of the materials will be difficult to find and there are even a few items that exist only in legend. I reckon most of them cant be found in the Heavenly South.

Oh? Let me take a look at what youre trying to find! When Senior Martial Brother Cheng heard this, he grew curious and reached out for the jade talisman. He then withdrew his spiritual sense from it with an expression of shock and said, These are truly rare materials. Could it be that Junior Martial Brother is trying to refine a magic treasure?

Han Li smiled and said, A magic treasure? Thats about right.

When he heard Han Lis vague answer, he dropped the topic and agreed to the matter, immediately arranging for the sect disciples to gather materials from the various areas of the Heavenly South.

With that finished, Senior Martial Brother Cheng and Lu Luo glanced at one another and Lu Luo handed over a bulging storage pouch over to Han Li.

Whats this? Surprised, Han Li unconsciously reached out from the storage pouch and gave the two a puzzling glance.

Junior Martial Brother Han, could it be that youve forgotten that you once already had the sect disciples gather Auric Essence and other rare materials for you? In the past few years, we were only able to gather a small piece of auric essence, but we did manage to gather all the other materials. I originally thought to give you a pleasant surprise, but I didnt expect that you would need to gather even more materials. It seems youve acquired significant skills in tool refinement. Lu Luo said with a smile.

You managed to find a piece of Auric Essence? When Han Li heard this, he rejoiced and he hastily took a look at the pouch. There was an assortment of materials with a walnut-sized piece of Auric Essence within it.

As for the other materials, they were the materials he was lacking to refine the ancient Nascent Soul grade puppets. He wouldve made a few to take inside Devilfall Valley if he had the materials at the time.

I do need these items. Many thanks for your troubles. Their value is quite considerable and I suppose you mustve used quite a few spirit stones to acquire them, I…

Just as Han Li was about to mention the cost, Senior Martial Brother Cheng chuckled and waved his hand. These items mightve cost a few spirit stones, but Junior Martial Brother Han had fought on behalf of the sect two times during the Moulan invasion. It is only natural to compensate you for your troubles. Please dont hesitate to take the items.

In that case, I wont be polite. Han Li quickly smiled and put away the spirit pouch without further hesitation.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng appeared pleased that Han Li didnt refuse his offer.

Ah yes, Senior Martial Brother Cheng, when I was dragged into the spatial tear, there were two flying swords that were left behind. Have you see them? The matter had just come to Han Lis mind. Since the old man was present when this had happened, he should have an idea where it was.

Having anticipated this, the old man said with an apologetic tone, I wouldve mentioned it to Junior Martial Brother Han regardless. In the past, those two swords you left behind were seized by that Elder Devil. When the campaign against the devil was ongoing, there was no sighting of the magic swords. It seemed that the devil wasnt able to use them because they were your own bonded magic treasure. But now there is another problem as the whereabouts of the devil are unclear. I fear those flying swords will be difficult to find.

Its with the Elder Devil? Han Lis expression changed for a brief moment, That will be troublesome, but it is no matter. They are only worldly possessions. I can make more.

I imagined as such. Senior Martial Brother Chengs expression relaxed and he said, Junior Martial Brother Han possess many flying swords. Losing two shouldnt amount to much. It isnt worthy of the danger of seeking out the Elder Devil.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng was even more fearful of the Elder Devil than Han Li. Naturally, he also didnt wish for anything to happen to Han Li as he was crucial to the Drifting Cloud Sects rise in the cultivation world.

Afterwards, they chatted a bit more about sect matters before Senior Martial Brother Cheng and Lu Luo took their leave. Han Li escorted them outside his cave residence before returning inside.

When Han Li returned, Silvermoon appeared in a flash of light and beamingly smiled. Master, youve acquired another piece of Auric Essence. Will you be able to temper another two swords and create the Aureate Sword Formation once more?

When Silvermoon mentioned the matter, her expression turned sullen, How could it be so simple? The Bamboo Cloudswarm Swords were refined as sets of magic treasures and there isnt enough Auric Essence to refine another set. Even if I were to refine another two flying swords to replace those that were missing, I wouldnt be able to easily control them and they wouldnt be able to form the Aureate Sword Formation either. I will have to recover the swords that were lost.

Silvermoon worriedly said, Although Masters cultivation has risen, the Elder Devil still isnt an opponent that you can fight.

Han Lis eyes flickered and he sat down once more. He solemnly said, I know perfectly well. Unless I am completely certain of victory, I will not act blindly. I will only seek out the devil after I open the Heavenvoid Cauldron or refine the Sevenflame Fan.

Youngster Han, dont forget my puppets. Monarch Soul Divergences voice suddenly appeared in his mind, Although the Elder Devil may be formidable, if you can gather enough materials to refine these puppets, they should be more than enough to defend you. He seemed displeased that Han Li made no note of his puppets.

Han Li faintly smiled when he heard this.

Since Senior spent so much effort on these puppets, I naturally trust them to be exceptional, especially given the rare materials needed to refine them. However, Senior never mentioned the puppet refinement methods and uses. How can I rely on them?

Monarch Soul Divergence snorted and proudly said, Dont goad me. Before you gather together the materials for my puppet body, I wont reveal even a sliver of information about the puppets to you. However, I will say that of the puppets are refined, they will be just as formidable as I was in my prime. Keep that in mind.

No less powerful than you in your prime? Han Li felt shocked by his words and an expression of disbelief appeared on his face.

What? You dont believe me? Monarch Soul Divergences voice turned cold as if annoyed.

Let alone believe, I fear even Senior is only guessing their level of power since youve only developed these puppets in theory.

As expected of his temperamental nature, Monarch Soul Divergence instantly let out a laugh and said, Those words are reasonable, but with my knowledge, how could I mistaken the power of the puppets that Ive designed? You dont need to worry on this point.

Han Li paid him no further attention and walked towards his secluded room.

Although he would be attending the ceremony the next day, he wanted as much of the final strands of Celestial Ice Flames as soon as possible. Afterwards, he would need even more time to refine his newly acquired materials so that he could later refine two of his Nascent Soul stage puppets.

During his time in Devilfall Valley, he had seen the malevolent ghost puppets that Daoist Heavencrystal had controlled. While they werent able to last long against the Elder Devil, their true strength was on par with a common early Nascent Soul cultivator, an admirable display. With that thought, Han Li entered the secluded room as he grabbed onto his newly acquired storage pouch.

…

On the morning of the next day, Han Li and his senior martial brothers joined together and made their way towards the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion.

Because three sects all used the same mountain range, it didnt take long before the three arrived at the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion on the other side of the Dreamcloud Mountains. On the way, Han Li recalled that he had previously gone there once before when he was still assuming the identity of a low-level disciple and participated in the three sects Sword Trial Assembly 1. He found the memory to be quite funny.

Just as the three flew out from the Drifting Cloud Sects grand formation, they were met by three Core Formation cultivators that were respectfully standing by. When they saw the three appear, they flew towards them.

We pay our respects, Seniors. We were awaiting your arrival under orders of our Martial Uncles. The one who spoke was the old man who stood at the threes front. He saluted them, followed by the two other middle-aged cultivators at his side.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng smiled and calmly said, There is no need for Martial Nephews to be so polite. Go ahead and lead the way.

Han Li looked at the old man and offered a mysterious smile.

Just as it so happened, the old man was Old Man Fu who presided over the Sword Trial Assembly. Since cultivators had sharp memories, it was guaranteed that he recognized Han Li, but he didnt reveal this in the slightest.

He may only be a Core Formation cultivator, but his wits were quite keen.

1 Chapter 618. Han Li participated in the trial to gain access to the Spirit Well Tree along with its various pill formulas.

Han Li stared at Mu Peiling and slowly said, As a woman cultivates the Copulation Essence Art, they must retain their vital yin until the very end or all their efforts will be for naught. As a result, I will not have you fulfill your marital duties until you reach late Core Formation stage, preserving our current relationship until then. But if you truly capable of assisting me in reaching late Nascent Soul stage, I will promise you here that I will assist you in forming a Nascent Soul with all of my strength. With a late Nascent Soul stage cultivator backing you, forming a Nascent Soul isnt an impossible matter.

Han Lis words werent a pretense. If he truly reached late Nascent Soul stage, he could gather more grade eight Demon Echo Grass to refine with the Ninecurl Spirit Ginseng, creating the spirit medicine that would aid in the creating a Nascent Soul. Once he reached that stage, he wouldnt have much to fear from a grade eight demon beast.

Mu Peiling lowered her head and sank her head into contemplation before she raised her head and asked Han Li, My Lord, does the Copulative Essence Arts have a particularly slow cultivation speed or have any negative consequences?

Neither, Han Li promptly answered, The technique cant compare to the might of a top grade cultivation art, but it is still faster than ordinary ones. As for any consequences, you may find combat difficult.

The woman stared at Han Li and calmly said, Since thats the case, lets follow my Lords plans. I clearly understand my own aptitude. Without my Lords assistance, I will find it incredibly difficult to successfully form a core. As for Nascent Soul stage, that is even more of an impossibility.

I am very happy that you agreed. Since weve spent some time together, you should how I am for the most part. Although you are only my concubine, I wont be too demanding of you. Properly ready your mind for Core Formation. I will deliver you the spirit medicine when the time comes. Han Li spoke with an unchanged expression as if having predicted this result.

With a curtsy, she said with a firm voice, Many thanks for my Lords kindness! I do understand the principle to returning kindness bestowed upon me a thousandfold. I will repay this with my life. It was obvious that Mu Peiling sincerely decided to attach herself to Han Li regardless of any worry of personal gain. After all, Han Li had power on the level of the three Great Heavenly South Cultivators and treated her well. She believed that such an good opportunity wouldnt come twice.

It also stood to mention that she already understood that Han Li had already treated her with much favor. Without the medicine pills that Han Li provided in the past, she wouldnt be on the verge of Core Formation, rather, she would be lingering at mid Foundation Establishment stage. As such, she agreed to Han Lis conditions without much hesitation.

Han Lis frank words had brought their relationship even closer and now a faint feeling of intimacy appeared on her face when he spoke with him.

Afterwards, Han Li candidly answered the womans questions with regards to Core Formation. Mu Peiling knew that this was a rare opportunity and diligently remembered Han Lis guidance.

About half a day later, Mu Peiling took her leave, feeling that she had gained much from the visit. Han Lis pointers in particular had made note of a few areas of cultivation she was lacking in and she needed to properly compensate for them.

Han Li didnt ask her to stay and sent her off a with a few words of warning. Silvermoon then escorted her out.

By the time Silvermoon returned to the main hall, Han Li was sitting in his chair as he reading through a jade slip that contained the refinement method of the Sevenflame Fan.

Silvermoon walked to Han Lis side and asked, Master, you truly wish to assist that woman in reaching late Core Formation stage?

Han Li withdrew his spiritual sense from the jade slip and he raised his brow, asking, What? is there something wrong with that?

Silvermoons gaze flickered and she hesitantly asked, Of course not! I was merely shocked that Master wouldnt simply take in another Core Formation female cultivator to take as a concubine instead of taking the long and hard path. Why are you treating this woman with such consideration?

Its nothing. Ive simply known her for many years and find her character to be acceptable and worthy of being nurtured. I also didnt only accept this woman as a concubine only for her to help me breakthrough my future bottleneck. I want to groom her as a capable subordinate. When I later cultivate in seclusion, Ill need a person I trust to conduct my affairs. As I am a Drifting Cloud Sect Elder, I cant continuously ignore the sect, and Waner isnt the type that enjoys being involved with sect matters either. But I can see that this woman is different. She doesnt have the mind to continually pursue further cultivation. Once she reached a certain stage, she will grow complacent and lose her patience for isolated cultivation. As such, she is suitable in dealing with sect matters on my behalf.

After Han Li said this, he paused and said, Of course, the most important point of the Copulative Essence Arts is a woman who is willing. Unless I were to offer a heavy price, ordinary female Core Formation cultivators would be unwilling to abandon their long-held cultivation art for an unknown one. And since Ive helped Mu Peiling cultivate through Foundation Establishment and form a core, she definitely wont be unwilling, especially since Im offering her an opportunity to condense a Nascent Soul. As she said, it is possible that wouldve remained a Foundation Establishment cultivator throughout her lifetime if it werent for my assistance. Therefore, there is no shame if I wish to make use of her, especially after all the resources Ive invested in her. With that said, Han Li sighed and the jade slip disappeared from his hand in a flash of light.

Silvermoon tilted her head and sweetly smiled. So it was like that. It seems I hadnt thought it over much.

And in the future, you wont be idle either. Han Li mysteriously smiled at Silvermoon. Now that Ive reached mid Nascent Soul stage, I must prepare to seclude myself for several days and refine the Celestial Ice Flames to its very last sliver. Afterwards, Ill try to comprehend the method to open the Heavenvoid Cauldron. During this time, Ill be leaving affairs in the cave residence to you.

After Silvermoon heard this, she beamed with joy. It is truly worthy of celebration that Han Li has finally reached the last stage in refining the Celestial Ice Flames.

Ah yes, it can also be considered the first step in opening the Heavenvoid Cauldron, but I dont have a clue what other requirements there are. But enough of that for now, Ive grown tired. Han Li then stood up and walked to his bedroom.

Silvermoon watched Han Li as he left and remained in the hall, pondering for a moment before leaving as well.

An uneventful night passed. Just as Han Li woke up the next day, Silvermoon arrived before him to report that Senior Martial Brother Cheng and Lu Luo had arrived. Han Li promptly readied himself and had Silvermoon open the restriction before heading to the gate to welcome them.

Afterwards, the two men waiting outside were welcome inside by a smiling Han Li.

The three sat down inside the cave residences hall. Then Senior Martial Brother Cheng apologetically said, We originally didnt intend to bother Junior Martial Brother Han on his day of rest, but the matter is rather urgent so we had no choice but to rush over.

There is no need for senior martial brothers to be overly polite! Han Li smiled and said with a casual tone, Cultivators only need a moments rest before recovering. It is no trouble at all.

If thats the case, were relieved. To put matters bluntly, the Ancient Sword Sect and the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion 1 have received reports that Han Li had returned to the sect and they sent a joint invitation asking for us to meet them. Although Junior Martial Brother Han has been part of our Drifting Cloud Sect for some time, they have yet to see you. This is a good opportunity to introduce you to them as our three sects share a mutual bond of prosperity. And relating to this is the invitation for tomorrows master recognition ceremony for a magic treasure. The Hundred Possibilities Sect had invited us and the elders of the Ancient Sword Sect to witness it.

A master recognition ceremony? Han Li interestedly said, I recall that the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion was renown for their treasure refinement. If they wish for us to attend it, this magic treasure must be quite unordinary.

The invitation didnt reveal it. However, the master of this treasure is to be a young disciple of the Hundred Possibilities Sect. I heard their aptitude was quite exceptional, having formed a golden core in less than a hundred years. The elders of the Hundred Possibilities Sect are holding high hopes for this disciple. As Lu Luo spoke, he flipped his hand and handed over a letter written in gold words to Han Li.

Han Li smiled and took a look at the letter. They must be truly exceptional to form a golden core in less than a hundred years. Alright, tomorrow I will head out with your two. I am also quite curious.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng chuckled and said, It is great that youre going. I heard the Ancient Sword Sect Grand Elder Jin Wuhuan had also emerged from seclusion. If I remembered correctly, he had spent entered seclusion eighty years ago at mid Nascent Soul stage. It is unknown how much he had accomplished.

The Ancient Sword Sects grand elder! Han Li said with surprise and felt that there was no harm in meeting him. Afterwards, he examined Senior Martial Brother Cheng and tensely frowned.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng, I just swept my spiritual sense past your body. Did you not find any life-prolonging medicine pills in Devilfall Valley? Han Li worriedly asked.

When the old man heard Han Li, he wore a bitter smile. I also know what will happen. At most, I only gave another dozen years to live before I perish. And while I did find a few treasures in Devilfall Valley, none of them were life-prolonging medicine pills, sealing my fate. Cultivators that cannot complete the great Dao will eventually perish from age and be reincarnated. There is nothing to be sorry about. When that happens, I will be entrusting the sect to you two junior martial brothers.

With that said, the old mans expression grew calm. He was clearly prepared for his end to come.

1 The Ancient Sword Sect and the Hundred Possibilities Pavilion are allies and neighboring sects of the Drifting Cloud Sect. They share the Dreamcloud Mountains.

Nothing had changed in his cave residence. Even a portion of the black-tainted Gold Devouring Beetles he left behind to guard the cave were now condensed into a Tri-colored Ball that motionlessly hung from the center of the main halls ceiling. As for the Profound Goddess Palm and the Ninecurl Spirit Ginseng, they appeared exactly the same as he had left them.

Han Li didnt care much for the Profound Goddess Palm, he didnt have high hopes in being able to revive it. But he did hold the Ninecurl Spirit Ginseng with much importance as it was essentially extinct in the outside world. It also stood to mention that the medicine had grown sentient and even developed its own incarnation, a truly rare plant indeed.

If it werent for the fact that it would be too difficult to sustain it without a regular supply of Qi, Han Li would definitely want to carry it on his body. However, it was a pity that none of the ancient formulas he acquired mentioned it as an ingredient. As a result, he could only sigh and put it aside for the time being.

As for his insects, he carried a majority of them on his body. In particular, he carried the twenty-four eggs of his Six-winged Frost Centipedes on hand so he didnt have to worry about them, although they hatched halfway on his journey to the Far West.

However, he felt rather regretful that they had continuously remained as larva for the past twenty-seven years he spent in the spatial tear since the green liquid didnt gather there. He had placed them in a particular spirit beast pouch that left them in deep hibernation.

Han Li first released the Gold Devouring Beetles into their room before releasing the Six-winged Frost Centipedes into a neighboring room.

He then took the spirit beast pouch and lightly tossed it into the room. In a gust of white light, over twenty three-inch-long centipede larvae appeared at the center of the room. Their bodies were snow-white and translucent, and wings had yet to sprout from their bodies, causing them to appear similar to large white silkworms, completely harmless.

When Han Li first acquired the Six-winged Frost Centipedes, he didnt know whether or not they could evolve through the use of the Rainbow Skirt Grass, but to his excitement, the grass was also effective on them.

He originally intended to make use of the centipedes frost Qi to refine the Purple Apex Flames, but after his battle in Devilfall Valley, another thought came to mind.

Although the Gold Devouring Beetles were formidable, their speed was a bit lacking. Even after reaching their final stage of maturation, Han Li figured that they would be easily restrained by incredibly fast enemies. That was where the Six-winged Frost Centipedes came in, in addition to the fearsome glacial Qi they spit out, their high ranking on the list of exotic insects were also due to their abnormal speed.

When they had two wings, their speed was about the same as other spirit insects. But when they sprouted out another pair of wings for a total of four, their speed underwent a massive increase, beating even common magic treasures. But most fearsome of all was when they completed their third and final pair of wings. Their speed placed them amongst the top three fastest insects and it was reportedly said they were invisible as they moved and could traverse five hundred kilometers in mere moments.

Of course, this was something that was only told through records. Even in times of antiquity, Six-winged Frost Centipedes were extremely rare, so Han Li was quite skeptical of these words. But given the one-sided accounts, there was no doubt that they were a fantastically fast insect.

In the battle against the Elder Devil, Han Li had suffered quite a bit at his strange bizarre movements, bringing the Six-winged Frost Centipedes to the top of his mind. It also stood to mention that with the further maturation of the Six-winged Frost Centipedes, Han Li could refine Purple Apex Flames in further abundance.

With that in mind, Han Li took a long look at the Six-winged Frost Centipede larvae. When he saw that they didnt reject their new environment, Han Li felt relieved.

He thought to further examine them for a time before he suddenly looked in the direction of the cave residences entrance with a changed expression. Light suddenly shined through his eyes and with a wave of his sleeve, he summoned Silvermoon in front of him. freewenovl.co

Mu Peiling has arrived in front of the gate. Lead her into the hall. I have a few words I wish to say to her! Han Li commanded with a sullen voice.

Yes, Master! Silvermoon respectfully received her orders and disappeared in a flash of silver light.

Han Li sealed the insect rooms and calmly made his way to the main hall. Han Li then took a seat in the masters chair and he held his chin in hand, appearing deep in thought.

At that moment, soft footsteps echoed through the hall. Silvermoon walked in with a beaming smile with Mu Peiling following after her.

Mu Peiling appeared as beautiful as before, no, it would be fair to say she was even more ravishing as her cold exterior had faded away to be replaced with serenity.

I pay my respects to milord. I congratulate my Lord on his safe return and rise in cultivation. When Mu Peiling saw Han Li, she smiled and gave a curtsey.

Han Li smiled and gestured for her to stand. Youve congratulated me as soon as you saw me, it seems youve heard the news. But there is no need for you to be overly respectful and act so distant between us. When you accompanied me to the Far West, we both went through quite a bit of hardship.

In the three years the two spent in the Far West, their relationship had grown closer. Although they couldnt be said to be entirely intimate, it was far better than before.

Many thanks my Lord! Mu Peiling smoothly stood up.

When we returned from the Far West, I didnt wish to separate from you, but it appears to be a good decision since you stayed here for the twenty-seven years I was trapped.

Mu Peiling replied with a smile, As my Lords concubine and having received much kindness from you, where else would I go if not here? I also didnt believe that my Lord had perished either.

I didnt think that you held me in such confidence. However, it was truly dangerous this time around, and there was a chance that I wouldnt have returned. Although you did have assistance from medicine pills, your current speed of cultivation could be considered extremely fast and you will soon be able to attempt Core Formation. What are your odds of success?

When she heard this, she wore a helpless expression and said, I dont have much of a chance. My odds of a successful Core Formation is less than one in ten. It will be up to providence.

Providence? Han Li beamed at her and said, Hehe, that might not be the case. I can lend you a hand with regards to Core Formation and increase your odds by thirty percent.

What? How is that possible? Mu Peiling gaped with alarm. My Lord cant be joking about this! Ive never heard of such medicines in the Heavenly South.

Most of the medicines I had arent present in the Heavenly South so it is natural that you wouldnt have heard of it. However, I can guarantee that with your aptitude and my spirit medicines, your odds of Core Formation should near fifty percent. Han Li said with a calm expression.

As Han Li had never claimed any empty boasts or exaggerated to Mu Peiling, she mostly believed him. Then with some thought, she hesitantly said, Is my Lord telling me this because he has instructions for me? Please dont hesitate to tell me.

Han Li felt somewhat surprised by this, but after pondering to himself for a moment, he decided to speak forthrightly, Do you remember the agreement we made when you decided to become my concubine?

Of course. I requested you to leave me alone for thirty years to cultivate and let me keep my vital Yin during this time. Mu Peiling blushed as she said this.

Han Li saw that she was mistaken and calmly explained himself, The agreed time has about been reached but you dont have to worry about it. I wont make things difficult just as you are on the verge of Core Formation. But there are a few things I must make clear before you form a core. Afterwards, you can properly consider what is best for you. I dont wish to use up my spirit medicines on your Core Formation only for you to suddenly renege on our deal and blame it on a sudden change of heart.

What does my Lord mean? Mu Peiling was stunned and she couldnt help but look at Han Li with shock.

Han Li wore an odd expression and said, I hope that after you form your golden core, you will abandon your cultivation art and will cultivate the Copulation Essence Arts.

The Copulative Essence Arts? Mu Peiling said with astonishment.

It is a rare pair cultivation art. When the technique is cultivated at its peak and the woman in question loses her vital Yin in copulation, the man and woman in question will receive many benefits in their cultivation. The benefits on cultivation are secondary but the most important aspect or the cultivation art is the inconceivable effect of allowing breakthroughs in bottlenecks. Of course, I will make it clear that the primary cultivator of the technique is the woman but the man is the one who receives the most benefits. As such, I wish to know whether or not I should do my utmost in assisting you in reach the Core Formation stage. Because Ive already cultivated to midNascent Soul stage, I wish to use the effects of the Copulative Essence Arts to breakthrough to late Nascent Soul stage. I will need you to cultivate the technique to late Core Formation stage for that to be possible. If you agree to change your cultivation art, I will continue to provide you with medicine pills after you form your core to hasten your cultivation. At the very least, itll be able to save you over a hundred years of bitter cultivation. Of course, if you are unwilling, I wont force you. After you attempt Core Formation, I will be removing the restrictions on your soul regardless if you are successful and grant you your freedom. And from then on, we will have no relation to each other.

When Mu Peiling heard this, she was thoroughly shocked. For a time, her expression wavered and her heart was thrown in turmoil.

When Senior Martial Brother Cheng heard Lu Luo, he was stunned. He hastily examined Han Lis inner Qi with his spiritual sense and saw that Han Li had truly entered mid Nascent Soul stage, much to his shock.

I knew that with your quick wits, you wouldve quickly discovered it. I did indeed come across a fortunate encounter inside Devilfall Valley and bitterly cultivated to enter the next stage. As a result, I was able to enter mid Nascent Soul stage after such a short amount of time, something that even I hadnt expected. But if I hadnt known that you two were protecting Waner, I wouldve spent my many years trapped inside the pocket dimension with worry on my mind, preventing me from wholeheartedly cultivating. My progress is much in thanks to you two as well.

Han Li then saluted the two and uttered his thanks.

What is Junior Martial Brother saying? Since I am Sister Nangongs sworn brother, it is only natural that I look after her. And its not like we did much with regards to that. To our shame, she is still trapped in ice!

Junior Martial Brother Han reached mid-Nascent Soul stage in less than three hundred years of cultivation. Such an announcement would shake the entirety of the Heavenly South. Let alone late Nascent Soul stage, it is highly possible that Junior Martial Brother could reach the Deity Transformation stage!

Lu Luo words were filled with admiration. There were only a sparse few characters in history that had progressed at the same speed as Han Li.

Speed on this level no longer had anything to do with cultivation aptitude and most likely came from luck and destiny.

Of course, Han Li simply responded with a few humble words before changing the topic and asking about what had happened after he disappeared in Devilfall Valley. The information he acquired straight from someone who witnessed the battle was far better than whatever was heard from rumors.

When the old man heard Han Li, he bitterly smiled.

After Han Li was swallowed by the spatial tear, the other Elder Devil was thrown into a fury. Just as Senior Martial Brother Cheng thought that his life was forfeit, the other cultivators had arrived.

Although the newly arrived cultivators had joined hands with Wei Wuya, they were still unable to deal with the two-headed four-armed Elder Devil. But just as these cultivators were about to be put in crisis, the Moulan had finally arrived.

With both sides joining hands, they trapped the devil. In the battle that followed, Spell Warrior Le summoned the Moulan Sacred Bird and they were able to grievously wound the devil. The Moulan Divine Sage Zhong was able to cut off one of the devils heads. But in the end, the Elder Devil managed to escape.

However, there were many Nascent Soul cultivators that perished in the battle. Nangong Wans Senior Martial Sister in particular suffered in the Elder Devils last struggle, he turned her body and Nascent Soul into ash with a ball of black devilflame. As for Ancestor Linghu, he ended up somewhat better. Although his body was destroyed, his Nascent Soul managed to survive.

But none were as unfortunate as the Ghost Spirit Sect Elder Zhong who had his Nascent Soul seized and devoured by the Elder Devil. As a result, all the Ghost Spirit Sect cultivators that entered the valley perished, apart from a few Core Formation cultivators, much to the shock of everyone.

As for everything that happened afterwards, it was mostly as Huang Yuanming had mentioned. According to ancient records, devils couldnt remain in the mortal realm for long, and none took the risk to chase it down. But against everyones expectations, the devil managed to persist in this world through some unknown method and went on a killing spree in the Heavenly South, killing cultivators and devouring their Nascent Souls. With fury and rage built up, a hunting party was launched.

When Han Li heard this, he frowned and said, Ive heard a few rumors with regards to the hunting partys battle with the devil. But is it true that two of the Great cultivators and the Moulan Divine Sage werent able to slay the devil? Given your identities, you should know the truth of the matter. With that said, Han Lis expression turned heavy.

We didnt participate in the campaign against the devil, but according to the information that the alliance sent, the Elder Devil received grievous life-threatening injuries, but it still managed to escape through some strange secret technique. Master Sunreach and the others attempted to give chase to eradicate the devil, but they gave up the case at the border of the Moulan Plains out of fear of provoking the Soaring Tribes. However, many years passed without the devil being sighted in the Heavenly South. And given how calm the Moulan Plains are, if the devil hasnt succumbed to its wounds, it should have crossed the Moulan Plains into the Great Jin.

The Great Jin Empire? Han Li couldnt help but reveal shock.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng and Lu Luo saw the surprise in Han Lis words, but they tactfully dropped the subject. After all, Han Li current abilities and cultivation were beyond the two so they couldnt help but feel a bit of admiration for him.

They chatted for a moment more before Han Li eventually mentioned how he found a cure for Nangong Wan in Devilfall Valley and wished to make an attempt to dissolve her curse.

The two were overjoyed when they heard this. If Nangong Wan recovered, the might of their Drifting Cloud Sect would increase once more. They hastily concluded their chat and personally guided Han Li to the restricted area.

Senior Martial Brother Cheng and Lu Luo stood at the entrance to the restricted area and personally kept watch, allowing Han Li to take care in dissolving the Soul Seal Curse. He uttered a quick word of thanks before approaching the stone gate.

Han Li glanced at the gate and saw that the restrictions hadnt been further activated since the last time it had been opened. It appeared that Senior Martial Brother Cheng and Lu Luo had only used their spiritual sense to see how Nangong Wan was doing inside, much to Han Lis satisfaction.

With his hand forming an incantation gesture, a series of spell seals flew out and struck the stone door, causing it to open with groans. Han Li then silently walked in with an odd expression, followed by the gate closing shut.

The room was exactly the same as in the past. It was completely clean because the restriction placed, and the moonlight stones embedded in the ceiling were as bright as ever. Nangong Wans child form was still sealed in the sparkling wall of ice with her eyes closed and a pale face.

With sadness across Han Lis face, he took several steps towards the ice wall and stopped three meters away. Then, he stared at Nangong Wans deathly pale face and a complicated expression appeared on his face.

An unknown amount of time passed before he finally let out a long sigh. He then slapped his storage pouch and summoned a jade box into his hand.

He lightly tapped the top of the box with his other hand and it suddenly flung open, revealing a thumb-sized scarlet demon core that pulsed with red light. It appeared mysteriously alluring.

Han Li squinted his eyes as he examined the demon core before suddenly opening his mouth and spitting out an azure mist onto the demon core. Afterwards, he tossed the demon core and had it hover in the air towards the ice.

At that moment, he muttered a series of incantations and struck the ice wall with a spell seal. In a flash of blue light, the azure mist and the demon core phased into the thick ice and flew into Nangong Wans lips.

Han Li then pointed at Nangong Wan and she stiffly opened her mouth like a puppet, allowing the demon core to fly into her mouth. Suddenly, Nangong Wans deathly pale face began to shine with a faint layer of red light, but her eyes remained completely shut.

Han Li let out a deep breath, knowing that the matter couldnt be rushed. Even if the demon core was truly effective, the curse wouldnt be dissolved in a few short months. Han Li stayed there regardless and simply stood in front of the ice wall, staring at Nangong Wan in silence. For some unknown reason, the breathtaking memory of when he first saw Nangong Wan appeared in his mind.

Time slowly passed by as Han Li stood still without moving an inch.

After a long while, Han Li calmly walked out from the secluded room and sealed the restrictions once more.

Still guarding the cave on the outside, Senior Martial Brother and Lu Luo asked a few questions of concern, but Han Li simply forced a smile and said he would have to wait a few days and see whether or not the Soul Seal Curse was dissolved. Han Li then bid his farewell for the time being and flew back to his cave residence, tired from his rushed journey back to the Dreamcloud Mountains. In any case, there was always time for a proper discussion in the coming days.

As mentioned by his senior martial brothers, his cave residence had remained untouched under their strict order. As for his concubine, Mu Peiling, she just had continuously resided in the mountain neighboring his cave residence and was shown much consideration by his two senior martial brothers. She had now reached False Core stage and was only on the verge of Core Formation.

Han Li felt his heart stir at this news and recalled the details of the Copulative Essence Arts 1.

Han Li had many medicines that could increase the odds of a successful Core Formation, and given her exceptional aptitude, she had a seventy percent likelihood of safely forming a core if he wholehearted assisted her.

However, he didnt expect that he would encounter a chance to breakthrough the bottleneck to mid Nascent Soul stage without her in Devilfall Valley. He had originally planned on having Mu Peiling cultivate this technique for several tens of years before he would claim her vital yin, but that plan had fallen through. He could also use the Copulative Essence Arts to breakthrough the bottleneck to late Nascent Soul stage, but he would need a deeper mastery of the technique to use it, not to mention that the woman must also be at late Core Formation stage as well.

Under normal circumstances, it was possible that he wouldnt be able to reach the peak of the Nascent Soul stage in even three hundred years. And during this time, he would have to properly nurture Mu Peiling as she cultivated the Copulative Essence arts. As the Copulative Essence Arts wasnt anywhere close to being a top grade technique, she wouldnt be able to reach late Core Formation stage in a short amount of time unless he provided her sufficient medicine pills.

With that thought, Han Li arrived in front of his cave residence. When he saw the sea of mist in front of it, he smiled and parted it with a wave of his sleeve before calmly walking inside.

1 First mentioned in Chapter 645. A technique that allows a male cultivator to breakthrough a bottleneck through copulation with a Core Formation stage woman. Can only be used once. freeebnovl.cm

I have no interest in cultivating to the point of becoming a monster akin to that Elder Devil. Han Li coldly responded.

After a moment of silence, Monarch Soul Divergence spoke with a strange tone, Youngster Han, you dont truly believe that all the Elder Devils take a grotesque form?

What does Senior mean? Could it be that after I transform into an Elder Devil I wont take on that otherworldly form? Will I be able to retain a human image?

Youve gained a wrong impression. According to the records that Ive read, devil cultivators that ascend to the Devil Realm may join the rank of Elder Devils, but they retain their human appearance. Of course, thats a different story if you use a devilish technique to change your body. At the end of the war between ancient cultivators and Elder Devils, there was a small portion of cultivators that were enticed by high grade Elder Devils and were completely fused with devilish Qi. With these cultivators joining the ranks of the Elder Devils, the final battle only grew more fierce. It was said that humans that were devilfied, restrained their outer appearance and intelligence, but since they had subjected themselves to those high grade Elder Devils, it is unknown if there was anything else behind this. This started the legend that humans who cultivated Elder Devil techniques to their peak would ascend to the Elder Devil Realm.

There are two types of Elder Devils that can take on fantastical and grotesque shapes. One type are peak existences that originated from the Elder Devil Realm known as Divine Ancestors. These devils are sparse in number and each of them are beyond fearsome. There are even a few cultivators that practice some Elder Devil Arts and repeatedly call out to the names of these Divine Ancestors to take in their devilish Qi for cultivation. The other kind are demon clans from our mortal realm that cultivated devilish arts and ascended to the Elder Devil Realm. Demon beasts originally werent human to begin with so their Elder Devil forms are vicious and ugly.

Having heard this, Han Li said, Demon clans? How is that possible? How can…

Monarch Soul Divergence lazily cut him off, How can they cultivator Elder Devil Arts, right? Dont ask me about it, Im not sure myself. It was merely something that the records had lightly touched. But although the specifics are unknown to me, it seems that the ancient demons contacted the Elder Devils at some point, seemingly much earlier than the humans did. However, I have met a few high grade demon clan members and they didnt actually cultivate any devil arts, neither did their bodies emit any devilish Qi. Perhaps youll come across an answer in the Jin Empire. If any place should have ancient cultivator records, it would be there.

Han Lis expression wavered and he thought to take out the Sacred Providence Plate which was a legacy treasure of the demon clans. It described a three-headed, six-armed cultivation art and it bore a striking resemblance to the Elder Devils two-headed four-armed appearance. Could it be that they have some sort of unknown connection?

After a moment of silence, Han Li couldnt help but break out into laughter. Even if the demon clans and Elder Devils had some sort of hidden connection or secret, he didnt have the time to waste discovering it. It was best to leave these matters to those who were interested.

As for the Sacred Provenance Plate, it was already ruined, and even if it was intact, he didnt have any business cultivating demon arts. After all, he didnt know how much longer it would take for him to cultivate the Azure Essence Sword Arts to completion. Besides, since these techniques had something to do with both Elder Devils and demon clans, it was entirely unsuitable for a human to cultivate.

Han Li shook his head and tossed the matter to the back of his mind, focused back on the conversation at hand.

He then bluntly said, There is no need to worry about the matter of your puppet body. I will assist you in collecting the materials regardless of whether or not I go to the Jin Empire. However, you did mention that the refinement process of the Sevenflame Fan was nearly complete about two years ago. It should be completely finished by now. If thats the case, you may as well give it to me now. I am missing two of my flying swords and am incapable of laying down the sword formation. I am in urgent need of an overpowering treasure.

In the years they spent in detention inside the pocket dimension, Han Li and Monarch Soul Divergence had come to understand each other rather well. Their relationship had grown deeper and friendlier to the point where they could be considered half friends and half master-student.

Monarch Soul Divergence replied openly as well, Ive substituted the extinct materials in the Sevenflame Fan for you, but I dont dare to claim that there is a high chance in a successful refinement. And with this refinement method, the fan would be more appropriately named the Triflame Fan. It originally needed eighty one fire-attribute spirit materials to refine, and I now changed it to thirty one. Of course, its might will also be reduced by over a half.

It doesnt matter if its might is reduced. If Divine Spirit Treasures are as formidable as legend has it, the Triflame Fan should be something that common cultivators wont be able to block.

Very well. Monarch Soul Divergence indifferently said, Take a proper look, Ive placed the refinement method inside this jade slip. However, there are still many materials that are difficult to find. I reckon it will cost you quite a bit to refine the fan.

Afterwards, the bamboo tube on Han Lis back opened and a white jade slip streaked out. Han Li grabbed it and slowly immersed his spiritual sense into it. After reading through its general contents, he unconsciously frowned.

Then, Monarch Soul Divergence lazily said, The other materials will only take a bit of time together and you can refine some of the others, but the plume of a Horizon Yang Bird and the scales of the Scarlet Flame Flood Dragon will be nearly impossible. At the very least, I havent heard of any easily found materials that could replace them. These particular materials should be impossible to find in the Heavenly South. When I made a trip to the Jin Empire in the past, I saw a young woman from the Yang Summit Palace raising a Horizon Yang Bird. But now that such a long time has passed, even if the bird no longer exists, there should be a few materials that remained behind. You should take a look for them. As for the Scarlet Flame Flood Dragon, that will be up to chance. However, you should be able to easily resolve it if you go to the Jin Empire as well.

Han Li snorted and helplessly said, You still wish for me to make a trip to the Great Jin.

Hehe! I want you to go to the Jin Empire for your own sake too. Once you make the trip, you will come to know why it is known as the sacred land of cultivators. The Great Jin Empire is known as the heart of the all cultivation.

Having made his mind, Han Li said, Then so be it. But there is something I must first do before I leave the State of Dongyu. I need to take a look at the outskirts of Devilfall Valley.

What do you plan on doing at Devilfall Valley? Monarch Soul Divergence spoke with a tone of alarm.

Dont worry, I dont plan on entering. Do you remember the Sovereign Devil Corpse? Before I entered the spatial tear, I used a secret technique on it. Of course, I need to see if it still remains in Devilfall Valley and see whether or not I can summon it. frewebnoel.o

Han Li stopped speaking and suddenly increased his speed, tearing through the sky as an azure steak.

When he entered the Chang Province, Han Li immediately headed towards the Myriad Chain Mountains and arrived at the entrance of Devilfall Valley.

After lingering there for two whole days, he was able to determine the location of the Sovereign Devil Corpse in the valley. However, it seemed to be trapped somewhere. No matter what spell seal Han Li cast, he wasnt able to get it outside of the valley.

Han Li hesitated for a long while and could only gloomily depart. It appeared he would have to wait until Devilfall Valley opened once more to rescue his corpse puppet, given that it survived over the years.

…

Two months later, Han Li reappeared in the vicinity of the Dreamcloud Mountains. When he drew near it, he came across a patrol of Drifting Cloud Disciples. They were filled with excitement at Han Lis appearance and they gave him a warm welcome before sending word to the two sect elders.

Not long after, all the disciples in the Drifting Cloud Sect emerged and greeted Han Li as an illustrious grand elder of the sect. At the head of this esteemed welcome was Lu Luo and Senior Martial Brother Cheng.

The two were filled with delight when they saw Han Li. They spoke no further and hastily welcomed Han Li back into the sect before dismissing the other disciples.

The three went to the main hall of the Drifting Cloud Sect and took a seat. Senior Martial Brother Cheng then excitedly said, Junior Martial Brother Han, I knew that with your abilities nothing wouldve happened to you. But since you survived, why didnt you return to the sect earlier? Youve caused us quite a bit of worry.

Lu Luo smiled and spoke with genuine happiness, Thats right. Had Junior Martial Brother Han returned earlier, he couldve saved us a lot of worry.

Senior Martial Brothers are mistaken. I was trapped in a pocket dimension and wasnt able to escape until just recently. I returned as soon as I could. Han Li pursed his lips and revealed an expression of helplessness.

Regardless, it is enough that Junior Martial Brother Han has returned alive. Now that I think about it, Ive never thanked you for saving my life. If it werent for Junior Martial Brother Han, I wouldve certainly perished. Senior Martial Brother Cheng stood up from his chair and deeply saluted Han Li.

It was nothing, Han Li smiled and said with a sincere tone, Ever since I entered the Drifting Cloud Sect, Senior Martial Brother Cheng has treated me well. When I saw that you were in danger, how could I not save you?

How could something as trivial as that compare to the kindness of saving my life? Ah yes, Im sure that Junior Martial Brother Han is still worried about Sister Nangong. Please be at ease. She is still safe and sound inside the ice.

When Han Li heard this, he deeply sighed with relief. At that moment, Lu Luo examined Han Li for a moment and wore an expression of disbelief. Junior Martial Brother Han, youve entered mid Nascent Soul stage! When did this happen? It is truly inconceivable! Did you have a fortuitous encounter inside Devilfall Valley?

When Han Li heard this, he was completely shocked. The combined forces of three late Nascent Soul cultivators werent able to prevail over the Elder Devil in a short amount of time. It seemed the Elder Devils restored power was similar to a cultivator at the Deity Transformation stage.

Was the devil killed in the battle? Han Li calmly asked.

This is unclear to us. There are those that said that the devil had used some inconceivable technique to escape the cultivators that besieged it, but since this Juniors clan is limited in power, we werent able to find the truth of the matter. But either way, ever since that battle, no trace of the devil has been found in the Heavenly South. Perhaps it has perished in both body and soul.

Perished in body and soul? Han Li stroked his chin, but after some thought, he felt doubtful of this.

If they had truly killed the devil, these grand cultivators definitely wouldnt have concealed it. It was most likely something strange happened and they were trying to conceal the truth. However, given how odd the information was, it could be that the devil suffered heavy injuries in the battle and was forced to escape and recover, or that he escaped from the Heavenly South entirely.

After some thought, Han Li felt that this was possible. For the time being, since he wasnt able to make a judgment on this matter now, he flung the matter to the back of his mind.

Fellow Daoist Huang, has anything else happened since Devilfall Valley?

With some thought, Huang Yuanming said, There are a few things that have happened in the past few years, and while they cant be compared to the matter of Devilfall Valley and the freed devil, they are all worthy of attention. Not long after the devil disappeared, a strange whirlpool appeared in the Endless Sea that borders the State of Xi. The whirlpool released a large quantity of spiritual Qi and began to purify the nearby water. Additionally, seven small islands have emerged around the whirlpool. Each of these islands emits an astonishing spiritual Qi as a result of all of them possessing a rare top grade spirit vein. The Three Great Heavenly South Cultivators even conducted a meeting over the ownership of the island which involved many sects. Eventually, the small islands were divided amongst seven large sects. The whirlpool was reported to be unmeasurably deep. There were many cultivators that thought to investigate it, but they found the pressure of the whirlpool to be too strong. I heard that Master Sunreach of the Three Great Heavenly South Cultivators attempted to investigate it as well, but after sinking ten kilometers deep, he wasnt able to further endure the pressure and had to return.

A great whirlpool? Something like that appeared? Han Li revealed surprise and spoke with astonishment.

How could this Junior dare to deceive you? News of this spread several years ago. If Senior were to ask any others, Im sure hell know it to be true. Huang Yuanming replied with a smile.

Han Li nodded and felt that the matter was quite interesting. He then asked him about other matters, particularly with regard to the movements of the Moulan Tribes and the Righteous and Devilish Daos. Huang Yuanming answered to the best of his ability with the other two old men occasionally interrupting him with additional details.

Not long after, Han Li listened to what had happened over the past years and felt at ease.

Apart from the whirlpool and Elder Devil, the other significant events were the appearance of spirit medicines and treasures or a war against cultivation sects. This news meant little to Han Li, but he continued to listen to the three regardless.

As for anything to do with the Drifting Cloud Sect, Han Li hadnt bothered to ask. After all, this place was too far away from the State of Xi. This small clan wouldnt know very specific details about it. If he wanted to know what was truly happening with the Drifting Cloud Sect, he would have to go to a market city or return to the State of Xi itself. reeebnvel.com

Han Li was satisfied with the three old mens report and swept his sleeve across the table in front of him, summoning a pair of sparkling golden short spears in a flash of azure light. Thank you for telling me this. I dont have anything amazing, but I will be giving you three these Broken Gold Spears.

Many thanks for Seniors gift. These… these are high grade magic tools? Huang Yuanming examined the golden spears for a moment before hastily saluting Han Li with joy.

With their power, it wasnt as if they didnt have any high grade magic tools. But since they only had a sparse few, they valued each of them greatly. Naturally, they were quite happy to acquire something so valuable after simply answering Han Lis questions.

Although these Broken Gold Spears are only high grade magic tools, if they are used jointly, they can rival even top grade magic tools. I had acquired them in the past because I found them interesting and theyve remained in my possession ever since. Now, I hand them over to you. Dont underestimate them. Hehe. Since Ive given you your reward, I will be taking my leave. Perhaps if fate will have it, this one named Han will see you again in the future. Han Lis body then glowed with light and he flew out of the hall in an azure streak. In flashes of light that crossed the sky, he disappeared from sight.

The three old men were stunned. Not expecting that Han Li would take off unceremoniously, they swallowed their words of thanks and looked at the pair of golden spears on the table.

How generous of him to easily give us a pair of high grade magic tools. The plump old man said as he looked at the golden spears.

It depends who is looking at them. High grade magic tools might be very valuable to us, but to that Senior, they might not be worth much. The taciturn white-robed old man said, wearing an odd expression.

Brother Wang, what do you mean? Could it be you recognize that Senior? Huang Yuanmings heart stirred. The plump old man also glanced at the white-robed old man with shock.

Brothers, you are both wise but now you are dim. Hes closely asked about Devilfall Valley and the devil, and possesses high cultivation at such a young age, not to mention he named himself as Han. Could it be you dont realize who he is? Dont forget that when the two devils appeared in Devilfall Valley, there was one particularly famous cultivator that went missing in the fight. The white-robed old man spoke with a wry smile.

You mean to say that person was Senior Han? Huang Yuanming cried out with an alarmed expression. The plump old man also appeared shocked.

The white-robed old man continued, You brothers should now know what I mean. This Senior is an existence on part with the Three Great Heavenly South Cultivators. It is natural for him to be generous.

After a moment of silence, Huang Yuanming sighed and said, Brother Wangs words are reasonable. However, it makes no difference to us whether or not he is truly Senior Han. Even if we wish to make a connection with him, cultivators on our level cant hope to catch his interest. It is already a pleasant surprise that he gave us two high grade magic tools. Perhaps he was compensating us for damaging the spirit spring. Lets first talk about what well do with these spears before we continue.

Although this was an opportunity that was hard to come by, an existence on Han Lis level would hardly pay them any attention, so there was no point to feeling any regret over the matter.

When the two old men heard Huang Yuanming, they postponed further discussion of Han Lis identity and looked at the golden spears. The spears were quite valuable after all and were right in front of them. The three then began their discussions on what to do with them.

As the three clan elders began their discussion, Han Li was already over fifty kilometers away.

He had only barely managed to emerge from the spatial tear, and it was quite fortunate that he emerged within the State of Dongyu as spatial tears were fickle and continuously wandered. It wouldnt be a surprise even if he arrived at an area countless leagues away.

Monarch Soul Divergence spoke from Han Lis mind, Youngster, where will you head to now? Will you be returning to the Drifting Cloud Sect? I am still lacking a few of the puppet materials that I required. I will need to gather them.

Han Li frowned and helplessly said, I already know this, but the materials you want are all rarely seen in this world. I doubt they all exist in the Heavenly South, and it will certainly take a long time to gather regardless.

Monarch Soul Divergence snorted and annoyedly said, Do you believe I can wait another eighty years? If you cant find them in the Heavenly South, then make a trip to the Jin Empire. Over there, youll be able to find any rare materials so long as you have enough spirit stones! Ive already told you that if I cannot refine my puppet body, I would rather destroy my refinement methods than hand them over to you!

Be at ease. Han Li sighed and said with a gloomy tone, Ive been wanting to make a trip to the Jin Empire regardless. Didnt you say that the baleful Qi on my body was too heavy? That if I were to use the Blood Devil Sword two or three more times my body would slowly erode? Not forgetting that I wouldnt be able to make any progress past mid Nascent Soul stage either.

Its fine if you know. Monarch Soul Divergence said with a suddenly happy tone, At first I did find it odd how you were infected with so much baleful Qi at a young age. I was a harsh character during my time in the world, but I didnt possess even a tenth of your baleful Qi. Tch tch, how strange indeed. Wouldnt it be better to change your cultivation art so that you may use the baleful Qi to advance your cultivation? Of course, this would cause you to ascend to the Elder Devil Realm rather than the Spirit Realm when you reach Deity Transformation stage.

As Huang Yuanming and the other cultivators attentively faced Han Li, they couldnt help but look in the direction of the pool.

After Han Li fell into the half-filled spirit spring, most of its water had been scattered away, leaving behind only a meager layer.

The three old men felt much heartache over this, but all they could do was wear a forced smile in front of this profound cultivator to avoid having all of them meet disaster.

In the instant Han Li had evaporated the water, he smelled the waters strange scent. As a result, he unconsciously took a look at it as he pondered.

Han Lis casual glance caused the three old men to feel greatly apprehensive. The three of them had been guarding the spirit spring for many years. If this cultivator were to fancy it, all they could do was offer it to him without resistance.

Han Li swept his gaze past the spring and paid it little attention. Instead, he turned to the three old men and said, Its been a long while since Ive last emerged and I am unfamiliar with the recent events of the Heavenly South. Could you Fellow Daoists tell me what has happened in the past few years?

Feeling greatly relieved that Han Li held little interest in the spirit spring, Huang Yuanming respectfully replied, Of course we can, Senior. If Senior doesnt mind, this Junior would like to invite you to our hall for a cup of tea while I explain. I will answer all of Seniors questions to the best of my knowledge.

The two old men at his side also breathed out with relief.

Han Li glanced at a few of young cultivators in the distance and after a moment of thought, he nodded, That is fine. There are many things I wish to ask about. I will have to bother you three.

A bother? No. It is our Huang Clans honor to welcome such an esteemed expert! Huang Yuanming was delighted and replied with a smile. Then he gave the order to a few of his disciples and they hastily flew back as to avoid offending out of insufficient preparations. Afterwards, he personally led the way to a pavilion at the center of the mountain.

As for the other two old men, they gave the commands to their clansmen and they hastily set off to the pavilion.

Your three clans all reside here? How rare. On the way there, Han Li asked a few questions about the general circumstances of the three old men and was quite surprised.

Senior must be joking. We are all here because there are no other places to establish ourselves, were trapped. Huang Yuanming replied with a bitter smile.

I see that the young disciples of your clans possess quite a bit of aptitude. Why havent you brought them to the great sects of the cultivation world? Han Li asked with a curious expression. While they might not be able to become succeeding disciples, an external affairs disciple is certainly possible.

Senior might not know this, but despite the many cultivation sects in the State of Dongyu, a majority of them regularly receive disciples from cultivator clans or simply exercise control over a few clans. As we are still only minor clans, we arent qualified to catch their attention.

Even if our clan has a few particularly outstanding disciples, I dont dare to have them enter a sect. They need to remain in the clan to raise our prestige. Huang Yuanming offered Han Li an explanation with a helpless expression.

These clan elders would certainly be a level above their current cultivation if they joined a large sect, but that would mean abandoning their clans and leaving them helpless.

Han Li blinked and nodded. He spoke no further of the matter as they were soon approaching a group of buildings.

Huang Yuanming led Han Li to the tallest of the buildings.

A short moment later, they arrived at the pavilions entrance where there were two rows of young female disciples respectfully waiting upon them.

As the three clan elders led Han Li into the pavilion, Huang Yuanming said, Senior, please enter! While our Spirit Scales Mountains dont produce any spirit medicines or fruits, we do have some decent tea. We have enough for a few cups.

Han Li followed them inside. The hall wasnt large and was only about a hundred meters wide, but it was more than enough considering that it belonged to a small clan.

Under they respectful gaze, Han Li calmly took a seat while the three old men remained standing. They didnt dare to place themselves on the same level as Han Li. Since their cultivations were so vastly inferior, Han Li didnt bother to refuse out of politeness.

At that moment, a beautiful female disciple brought over a tray with tea and placed a cup in front of Han Li before carefully withdrawing.

Han Li casually held the cup in his hand and took a sip. The tea was bitter at first but a strange fragrance soon spread through his mouth. Not bad. It is truly rare tea. Han Lis mouth formed a strange smile and he offered a word of praise.

Seniors cultivation is deep and immeasurable, but your face is unfamiliar. Is Senior not a cultivator of the State of Dongyu? The plump old man said.

No, I am not from here. There is no need for you to worry. After I ask you a few questions, I will immediately depart. I wont stay here and make things difficult.

Han Li had no intention of stating his name. He simply glanced at the plump old man and gave a mysterious smile.

With alarm, Huang Yuanming hastily spoke with a changed expression, Senior is being too considerate. We are immensely fortunate to have met Senior, we dont dare to disrespectfully rush you away.

Han Li glanced at Huang Yuanming and waved his hand. Its fine! I already know the fear and anticipation you low level cultivators hold towards me. So long as you answer my questions to my satisfaction, I dont mind giving you a few benefits. After all, it can be considered fate that we met.

When Huang Yuanming heard this, he was delighted and spoke with an even deeper tone of respect, If Senior has anything on his mind, please go ahead and ask. Although our clan isnt large, we do receive news quite quickly. Our answers will be to Seniors satisfaction.

Han Li smiled. Although he reckoned they wouldnt lie even if he didnt offer any rewards, they will most certainly answer to the best of their ability if he did. They will most likely take the initiative to give more precise details.

Han Li glanced at the three and calmly said, Since youre so close to the Chang Province, you should know a bit about the cultivators who entered Devilfall Valley the last time it opened. Can you tell me about what happened?

Devilfall Valley? Yes, we do know of it. When Huang Yuanming heard Han Li, he was a bit puzzled but immediately answered nonetheless.

He then recalled the appropriate information and reported, Over twenty years ago, a large number of cultivators entered Devilfall Valley in search of treasure. Because the Ghost Spirit Sect found a safe method to enter the valley, several hundreds of Core Formation cultivators and tens of Nascent Soul cultivators entered in search for ancient cultivator treasures.

However, Devilfall Valley was truly dangerous. A majority of the cultivators that entered the valley remained on its outskirts and perished to the restrictions and spatial tears that were present. Less than half of these cultivators were able to return alive. And even more terrible was how the party of Ghost Spirit Sect cultivators had managed to release two devils from antiquity that were capable of consuming Nascent Souls, resulting in the death of the Ghost Spirit Sect Master. These two devils were incredibly formidable. According to those present, the Nascent Soul cultivators that entered the valley depths united against the devils in a huge battle. Even with Senior Wei Wuya and the Moulan Divine Sage fighting against it, they were only able to slay one of them. The other devil still managed to escape.

There were many cultivators that died in the battle, including many famous seniors. However, Devilfall Valley is worthy of its name as an ancient cultivator cemetery. I heard that those that made it out alive came out with quite a harvest. There were even those that found medicine pills that extended their lifespan or broke through their bottlenecks, stirring up much excitement in the cultivation world at the time. Afterwards, many cultivators grew envious and used the Ghost Spirit Sects transportation formation to enter Devilfall Valley despite the fact that the spatial tears were now unstable again. None of these cultivators have yet emerged, preventing any other cultivators from trying in fear. Now, Devilfall Valley is a forbidden area once more that none dares to enter.

You said there was a devil that escaped Devilfall Valley. What happened to it? Han Lis heart grew heavy and his expression turned gloomy.

I wouldve told you about the devil even if you hadnt ask. The devil itself is a calamity that has plagued the Heavenly South cultivation world. Huang Yuanmings expression turned sullen.

Han Li frowned and remained silent, waiting for him to continue.

Originally when the devil escaped, a few seniors said that the devil couldnt exist for long in our human realm and that it would return where it came from after some time. As a result, none had taken it very seriously, but none wouldve expected that the devil would ambush high grade cultivators without fear and consume their Nascent Souls to restore its strength. In a short few years, seven Nascent Soul cultivators have fallen to him and the devil has yet to return to its realm. It was then the cultivators knew that the devil used some unknown method to prolong its stay in this realm. When this happened, the three Great Heavenly South Cultivators and a dozen specially picked mid Nascent Soul seniors organized a party to hunt down the devil. However, the devil was extremely cunning and didnt meet the hunting party head on. Rather, he picked off the cultivators one by one.

The devil even attacked the Moulan, provoking them to send a party of sages to join the hunt. From then on, the devil was no longer able to escape the united hunt of the cultivators and the Moulan. However, this only drove the devil to be even more frantic. Not only did it attacked several high grade cultivators at the end, but it even went after many low grade cultivators. In its final month, it went on a massacre, destroying a dozen cultivation clans and several small sects as they werent able to resist it. But a dying devilish sect elder was able to use a secret technique that allowed the hunting party to track the devil down and surround it in the State of Fengdou. I heard that the devils strength was completely restored, and its cultivation had nearly reached the Deity Transformation stage. Two Great Heavenly South Cultivators and one Moulan Divine Sage simultaneously took the devil on in a battle that lasted an entire day and turned Soulfall Mountain into a flat plain. No other cultivators were capable of taking part in the battle. Once that was said, Huang Yuanming paused and he couldnt help but reveal shock.