Chapter 228: What the heck

On Pu Yuan Mountain.

As the Shangqing Daoist exterminated the demonic beasts.

The Xuanhuang Tower suppressed Pu Yuan Mountain.

Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciples began frantically harvesting the treasures within the divine mountain.

It contains endless divine artifacts and even a dragon vein hidden underground; for sect cultivators, this is a tremendous boon.

At this moment, the Shangqing Daoist observed the Starry Ancient Tree inside the Xuanhuang Tower, his heart brimming with excitement and anticipation.

He entertained a bold idea: to directly refine the Starry Ancient Tree and merge it into his own body.

However, it cannot be done now; under everyone's watchful eyes, directly refining it would not only draw outsiders' scorn but also displease his own peers.

"Headmaster."

"The spiritual energy here is no weaker than that of our Tai Xuan Immortal Sect; shall we simply claim this mountain?"

An elder spoke, eyes on the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciples gathering the treasures, his face alight with excitement.

"Fine."

The Shangqing Daoist nodded; it was a good idea. Though he had already secured the greatest treasure, the divine mountain remained wondrous, suffused with terrifying spiritual energy. In perhaps a hundred years, Pu Yuan Mountain would rejuvenate.

It would again sprout abundant heavenly materials and earthly treasures.

They would flow endlessly, inexhaustible to harvest.

However, the harvesting process sparked considerable controversy.

"Lay down the treasures in your hands, or face execution."

A cold voice rang out as Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciples gathered, staring at the other cultivators.

They were domineering, demanding the opponent surrender the obtained treasures.

"This is Pu Yuan Mountain, not Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's territory. Should everyone claim the treasures? On what grounds must we relinquish them?"

A cultivator, dissatisfied, could not help but speak up.

This is Pu Yuan Mountain, teeming with treasures; in theory, Tai Xuan Immortal Sect already obtained the Starry Ancient Tree and the finest items, yet they still covet these heavenly and earthly valuables.

That's excessive.

"The demonic beasts of Pu Yuan Mountain are suppressed by our Tai Xuan Headmaster; had it not been our Tai Xuan Immortal Sect, you would likely be dead already, yet you still dare to plunder here?"

"Leave at once, or don't blame us for being unkind."

A Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciple spoke.

They are respectable cultivators on the Dao and belong to a renowned orthodox sect, which is commendable.

The problem is that Pu Yuan Mountain has transformed; treasures abound everywhere, each modest item holds great value. If they were ordinary, seizing them wouldn't cause remorse.

Yet on the divine Pu Yuan Mountain, nothing is without merit.

Naturally, they are unwilling to abandon them.

As for having any shame?

Putting aside other matters, faced with so many treasures, what shame is there? The law of the strong preying on the weak is the natural order of the world.

"Is this really the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect?"

"Eastern Wilderness orthodox sect? So domineering?"

One dissenting figure, an inner-core cultivator appearing in his seventies, showed some anger.

He did not wish to offend the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect, but being forced to leave in the face of such treasures was somewhat displeasing.

"Pu Yuan Divine Mountain harbors endless demonic beasts."

"The demonic bird just now could have exterminated you all; had our Tai Xuan Immortal Sect not summoned the Xuanhuang Tower to quell the chaos, you would likely have perished in the Yellow Springs."

"Now the Xuanhuang Tower has revived, consuming endless spirit crystals; our Tai Xuan Immortal Sect is not being overbearing, but logically shouldn't we…"

"Thus, after our Tai Xuan Immortal Sect removes all the treasures and carefully calculates, if the compensation exceeds the loss, we will return the treasures to you."

At this moment, a Tai Xuan Immortal Sect elder spoke, looking at the crowd.

But the excuse sounded overly grandiose.

More return, less supplement?

Do they think the world's people are fools?

"Do they still take out what's already in their mouths? Is the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect being too overbearing, using this excuse to fool us?"

Someone remained unconvinced.

Yet the next moment, the Shangqing Daoist stepped forward; in an instant, the terrifying aura of the Xuanhuang Tower enveloped the entire divine mountain. His expression remained calm, neither pleased nor angry.

"The great age's contest lies in struggle itself; now my Tai Xuan Immortal Sect has won, so it rightfully should claim the treasures."

"We speak thus only because our sect endures hardships; otherwise, other sects might not even utter a word."

"I urge you all to conduct yourselves accordingly."

He spoke, his voice indifferent, and the crowd understood its implication.

It was plainly a threat: speaking kindly, yet if you refuse, don't blame me for acting.

Sure enough, under the Xuanhuang Tower's intimidation, the crowd fell silent, sighed, and one by one set down their treasures, descending the mountain.

Watching this, each Tai Xuan Immortal Sect disciple rejoiced beyond expectation, their eyes flashing with pride.

The great age's contest is indeed wonderful.

Whoever is stronger gets to make the rules.

Yet after some descended, someone still couldn't help speaking up.

"Shangqing Daoist."

"What you did today will, sooner or later, be emulated by others."

Someone, unable to bear it, voiced this out of anger.

I, a humble monk, will wait.

The latter spoke calmly, without any fear; having just obtained the Starry Ancient Tree, he has already seized the initiative of a divine mountain, and from now on will naturally thrive.

And at this moment.

In the Da Xia borderlands, Gu Jin Nian was still earnestly expounding the Way of the Saint.

Now that he has become a saint and successfully seized the initiative, a divine mountain holds little significance for Gu Jin Nian.

Propagating the holy law is a saint's duty; no matter how the heavens and earth change, one must not lose one's original heart, especially when the world transforms and rare treasures emerge—if such things disturb one's mind, one will fall to a lower level.

Meanwhile.

The far north.

Great Dao Prefecture.

The Prefect gazed silently into the distance, and behind him stood a figure: Mr. Guigu.

"Heaven's Mandate has already manifested, Pu Yuan Mountain has transformed; can the Sovereign still not ascend?"

The Prefect of Great Dao Prefecture spoke, his tone calm.

"We still need to wait."

"At the crucial moment, the Sovereign will ascend."

Mr. Guigu replied, giving a confirming answer.

"We have reached this point and still have not ascended; the struggle for Heaven's Mandate has already begun. This Starry Ancient Tree could produce a Seventh Realm powerhouse for a sect, yet we remain here in continued hibernation."

"If this continues, the loss for us will be severe."

"To be honest, I have no patience left."

He spoke, his words carrying a hint of other meaning.

"All of this is still because of Gu Jin Nian."

"The fault lies with him; had it not been Gu Jin Nian, this would not have happened."

"This was beyond my calculation, yet it is within reason."

Mr. Guigu spoke, pointing the blame at Gu Jin Nian.

"What does he have to do with it?"

The Prefect of Great Dao Prefecture responded, curious.

"All our plans have been arranged for decades, and the key point is Gu Jin Nian."

"Originally, we executed a scheme to assassinate Gu Jin Nian, hoping to use this chance to make the Gu Family rebel, thereby inciting a Da Xia civil war and creating slaughter."

"In that way, they could be revived."

"What we did not anticipate was that Gu Jin Nian did not die. Later he turned his attention to Jiang Ning County, trying to use a flood to achieve our aim, yet Gu Jin Nian still suppressed it."

"Without enough Da Xia blood, reviving my ancestors will be difficult."

Mr. Guigu spoke, revealing the reason.

Upon hearing this, the Prefect of Great Dao Prefecture's expression turned somewhat cold as he said.

"This is not what I wanted to hear."

"The Great World Struggle has now begun; logically, Great Dao Prefecture should join immediately to contest the Great World, yet the entire Great Dao Prefecture has been hibernating, and our Heavenly Pride is also not lacking."

"If we keep them restrained, trouble may arise."

He spoke, his words tinged with discontent.

Indeed, Great Dao Prefecture is inherently mysterious, cultivating Heavenly Pride across the realms; now that the Great World Struggle arrives, Great Dao Prefecture has taken no action, who wouldn't be angry?

"A small lack of patience disrupts the grand scheme."

Mr. Guigu spoke.

Having said that, he also knew that with the Great World Struggle descending, these Heavenly Pride individuals, one by one, grew arrogant, especially upon seeing others gain benefits, naturally feeling discontent.

"However, although my ancestors have not fully revived, I can take them to see the ancestors."

Mr. Guigu said.

At these words, the Prefect of Great Dao Prefecture's expression changed slightly.

"May we meet the Sovereign?"

He spoke, asking thus.

"Yes."

"My ancestors can manifest themselves and also wish to meet you all, granting certain benefits, as a reward for what you have done for my ancestors."

Mr. Guigu said.

"If this can be done, it is indeed a good thing."

"When exactly?"

The Prefect of Great Dao Prefecture was somewhat urgent.

"In three months; I will inform the exact time. The Central Continent Emperor has grown suspicious of me and needs the situation stabilized before he can intervene."

Mr. Guigu spoke.

"Very well, then I trouble you, sir."

The Prefect of Great Dao Prefecture spoke; obtaining this information, he was naturally satisfied.

"However, this Pu Yuan Mountain actually has the Starry Ancient Tree, which truly benefits the people of the Great Profound Immortal Sect."

The Prefect of Great Dao Prefecture still felt uneasy; he could also act to seize the Starry Ancient Tree.

But Mr. Guigu merely smiled calmly.

"Prefect, there is no need to worry. First, the treasures emerging now are not the finest; the treasures that will appear later are the true ones."

"Moreover, when the ancestors are fully revived, these people will also..."

"It's not theirs; even if we seize it, it's only temporary custody, and it may even bring a death‑causing disaster."

"Mr. Guigu said softly."

"Yet in his words and expression, he appeared especially confident."

"Mm."

"In any case, being able to see you, Your Excellency, is the best."

"The rest can be discussed later."

"The Great Way Hall's head spoke; he didn't want to hear such grand talk, nor was it necessary."

"He cooperated with Mr. Guigu because of the ancient secret."

"He needs to see that group of people."

"If they are seen, everything can be discussed; if not, say nothing— the Great Way Hall will directly join the contest for Heaven's Mandate and will not provoke anything."

"Alright."

"But please, Head, handle the Da Xia matters a bit."

"Just one final step remains."

"Mr. Guigu reminded."

"This... we'll discuss it when we see you, Sir."

"The Great Way Hall's head spoke; he still harbors some caution toward Mr. Guigu."

"Alright."

"Mr. Guigu nodded and said nothing more."

"Soon, after Mr. Guigu left, a figure appeared in the hall."

"Head, some people inside the hall can no longer hold back."

"The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect has obtained the Star‑Ancient Tree and seized the initiative; if our hall still hesitates, we will truly miss the great opportunity. One misstep leads to another; if we don't take the initiative, we will be the ones suffering."

"The voice sounded, a bit anxious."

"The Great World Contest emerges."

"The two saints of the Da Xia Dynasty, with various divine mountains manifesting, immortal sects one after another dripping with oil, and their Great Way Hall, which was created for this Heaven's Mandate, now see everyone fighting for the Heavenly Destiny Luck."

"If their Great Way Hall doesn't compete, it's simply a joke."

"I know."

"The Great Way Hall's head took a deep breath; he was well aware of the current Da Xia Hall situation."

"Then what exactly should we do?"

"The latter asked, genuinely at a loss for words."

"Wait three months."

"After three months, go take a look."

"The head spoke; this was his final choice."

"Head."

"Why must we wait three months?"

"What exactly are we still waiting for?"

"If this Star‑Ancient Tree is refined by a Pure Celestial Daoist, it will inevitably enter the Seventh Realm; our Great Way Hall has never had a cultivator of the Seventh Realm."

"The latter still couldn't help but speak again, thinking there's no need to keep waiting."

"Waiting for the revival of the ancient human race."

"The Great Way Hall's head said."

"Ancient human race?"

"In an instant, the latter furrowed his brows, not quite understanding what that meant."

"You should know about the ancient times, right?"

"The head asked, thus."

"I know."

"Ancient texts record that in the Prehistoric Era, it was incomparable in splendor: cultivators ascended to become flying immortals, saints spread teachings across the world, immortal warriors shattered the void, and countless demonic beasts existed."

"Legend says that in the ancient era, any ordinary grass, even placed now, could become a spirit medicine."

"But the ancient civilization vanished abruptly, and it's unclear what happened."

"Thus this memory is recorded only in a few books, with no trace to be found; whether true or false, no one knows."

"The other side spoke, revealing the ancient secret."

"However, this is not really an ancient secret."

"The Divine Continent divides its history into four stages."

"In the Wilderness Era, there were no humans, only some wild giant beasts; the world was chaotic, these beasts fought each other, and were eventually erased by the Heavenly Dao, separating the pure and turbid qi, delineating heaven and earth."

"The second stage is the Ancient Era; in that time, ferocious beasts weakened and turned into demonic beasts, but the murderous intent remained ingrained, and finally the Ancient Era ended again."

"The third stage is the Prehistoric Era; during this time, the human race was born, inherently possessing various incredible abilities, thus creating immortal arts, Buddhist teachings, Confucianism, and so on—a flourishing of many schools."

"Confucius became a saint in the Prehistoric Era, the first Heaven's Mandate saint between heaven and earth."

"It is also rumored that Confucius attained the Dao in the Late Prehistoric Era, founding a line of Confucianism."

"Eventually the Prehistoric Era vanished; no one knows what happened, only that heaven and earth changed drastically, the once glorious immortal sects and Buddhist schools all fell, even the Confucian‑Daoist line suffered great weakening."

"After experiencing a cultural rupture, it finally entered the fourth stage."

"The Medieval Era."

"The Medieval Era inherited part of the Prehistoric Era's legacy, and to date may be less than thirty thousand years; more precisely, twenty‑eight thousand four hundred years, which is the current estimate."

The sudden decline of the ancient era has spawned many conjectures, yet those conjectures are merely later generations' extrapolations based on the existence of that era; what actually happened remains unknown.

At this moment, the head of the Great Dao Prefecture mentions the ancient era—how could that not astonish him? "That Master Guigu is precisely a descendant of the ancient human race."

The head of the Great Dao Prefecture spoke, his tone calm.

"A descendant of the ancient human race?"

"What do you mean, Prefect?"

The latter was somewhat surprised.

"In the ancient era, a terrifying upheaval occurred, yet a portion survived; they used secret techniques to live to the present."

"They are about to be reborn."

"To take part in this Great World Struggle."

The head of the Great Dao Prefecture spoke, revealing the fundamental reason.

Sure enough, as soon as those words were spoken, the latter's expression could not help but be shocked.

"There are still some alive?"

"That's impossible."

He was astonished—how could people from thirty thousand years ago still be alive?

One should know that a Fifth Realm master of a sect, i. e., a Golden Core cultivator, lives only about five hundred years; Sixth Realm, no more than seven hundred; Seventh Realm, a thousand years.

If one knows the art of health preservation and takes some elixirs, reaching fifteen hundred or even two thousand years is about the limit.

Three thousand years is already terrifying.

Let alone thirty thousand years?

Moreover, this is extrapolated from the time the ancient era vanished—whether it was thirty, fifty, or even a hundred thousand years, who can know? Many things are merely speculation.

Although lifespan does not equate to strength, the ancient human race sounds both terrifying and domineering.

"There is nothing in this world that is truly impossible."

"If it weren't this, how could the Great Dao Prefecture not take part in the Great World Struggle?"

The head of the Great Dao Prefecture spoke; he clearly believed in the matter of the ancient human race.

"But even if the ancient human race truly exists, what does it have to do with us?"

"If they are strong, would the ancient human race still need our help?"

"If they are in decline, we bring them a chance of survival, yet they might not help us thereafter, right?"

The other remained somewhat calm, not stirred by the mention of the ancient human race.

"You are wrong."

The head of the Great Dao Prefecture shook his head, then looked at the other and said.

"We are not assisting the ancient human race; we are joining them. If we revive them, we can all obtain ancient true blood."

"In the ancient era, the human race was born with numerous incredible powers, a lifespan of at least five thousand years; with a bit of cultivation, they could live ten thousand years without perishing. Moreover, possessing an ancient true body would amplify cultivation by at least tenfold."

"Don't be fooled by how the current sects thrive and seize the initiative; it is the physique that is paramount."

"Take this star‑ancient tree, for example: after the Shangqing Daoist refines it, it can reach the Seventh Realm; if we refine it, it will be far beyond the Seventh Realm."

"Everything in this world, when you think about it, revolves around the Path of Longevity, doesn't it?"

"The Great World Struggle is a contest for the Path of Longevity as well."

"Three months from now, if no results appear, I will outright refuse cooperation; but if we encounter the ancient human race, the Great Dao Prefecture's future will be limitless."

He spoke, his eyes filled with resolve.

"But, Prefect, why are you certain they will grant us ancient true bodies?"

The latter remained puzzled.

Having finished speaking, the head of the Great Dao Prefecture inhaled deeply, then turned, wearing a black cloak; in the next instant he shed the cloak, and in a flash his flesh was covered with scales.

Scale after scale, black and draconic in aura, yet they emitted a faint, fishy stench.

The latter was astonished, his eyes filled with shock.

"I have already obtained half of the ancient true blood; though I am now a Sixth Realm cultivator, as long as I circulate the ancient true blood, I can wield the power of the Seventh Realm."

"When the ancient human race descends, I will be able to directly transform into one of them, instantly stepping into the Seventh Realm."

"It's not just me; every Tianjiao of the Great Dao Prefecture can use the ancient true blood to evolve to perfection."

"At that time we will be invincible, even if we remain a step below; so what? At least we will still stand atop the summit."

"The glorious golden age will still belong to us."

He spoke, his eyes burning with unmasked fervor.

Hearing this, the latter fell silent, his eyes showing only astonishment.

Thus.

In the blink of an eye.

Three days passed.

It was still Puyuan Mountain.

The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect could be called a great harvest; they swept the entire Puyuan Mountain clean.

Not a single treasure was left behind.

But the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect was too greedy; even after cleaning everything, they had not left, intending to re‑inspect several times for any missed items.

But at that moment—

Thin strands of white mist rose from the mountain, then formed a vortex that gathered at the summit, drawing into the body of a celestial crane already shattered. "Go!"

Seeing this, the Shangqing Daoist hesitated not a moment and led his disciples away directly.

Soon.

On Puyuan Mountain, white mist rose again, much denser than before.

The white crane that had long been dead gathered with the white mist and finally revived.

Eek!

A sharp sound rang out, echoing for a thousand li; the noise was unbearably shrill, and a terrifying aura arose.

Below Puyuan Mountain.

The Shangqing Daoist's expression changed; he swiftly summoned the Xuanhuang Tower to protect the sect's disciples.

The Xuanhuang Tower hovered in the heavens, a myriad of golden rays enveloping the area, repelling the dreadful aura.

"Why can it revive again?"

"Wasn't it already killed?"

"Is this monster truly immortal?"

The people were shocked; all cultivators were somewhat incredulous—how could the monster, slain by the Xuanhuang Tower, revive again?

This is beyond belief.

"It is Heaven's Mandate."

Someone frowned, considering a possibility.

"What does it mean?"

"What does it have to do with Heaven's Mandate? Does obtaining Heaven's Mandate allow endless revivals?"

Many looked over, eyes curious; even the Shangqing Daoist could not hide his curiosity.

"Heaven's Mandate blesses this place; this monster is a Heaven's Mandate Beast, tasked with guarding the Divine Mountain. This demon bird must carry a Phoenix bloodline, thus possessing the Phoenix Nirvana Divine Art."

"Moreover, with Heaven's Mandate gathering here, it can revive, even multiple times."

"And each revival makes it stronger."

"Of course, this is merely my conjecture."

An elder spoke, offering the possibility; this elder was a strong member of the Beast Taming Sect, so the crowd gave his words some credence.

"Multiple revivals? Each time it revives, it grows stronger?"

"If that were so, wouldn't it be impossible to kill it completely?"

Someone, curious, wore a grim expression.

"No."

"The Phoenix can, within a single period, revive nine times via the Phoenix Nirvana Divine Art, but each revival merely averts a fatal wound; it is not true rebirth."

"This demon bird is linked to the Phoenix, yet nine revivals are impossible; three may be the limit."

The latter spoke.

He voiced his own speculation.

Eek.

At that moment, a terrifying cry rang again; the white crane fluttered into the sky, reborn, its feathers like jade, its size a circle larger than before, its aura nearly reaching the Seventh Realm.

This is dreadful, especially since it holds an immortal sword embryo in its mouth; combined, it equals Seventh Realm combat power.

The white crane stared deadlocked at everyone, especially the Shangqing Daoist, its gaze full of hatred.

"If you dare to blare again."

"The old man does not mind slaying you a second time."

The Shangqing Daoist spoke, his face unafraid; after all, with the Xuanhuang Tower, he truly need not fear.

Hearing this,

the white crane fell silent, making no further sound, yet the murderous intent in its eyes could not be concealed.

However, it eventually returned to the interior of Puyuan Mountain.

The entire Puyuan Mountain was once again shrouded in white mist, denser than before, so no one dared to ascend, chiefly because there were no treasures left.

Watching the departing white crane.

The Shangqing Daoist let out a sigh of relief.

In truth, he did not wish to fight further; now his sole thought is to refine the ancient star tree and step into the Seventh Realm.

"Let's go."

The Shangqing Daoist spoke, intending to lead the sect's disciples away.

Only a prince approached, smiling at the Shangqing Daoist.

"Shangqing Zhenren, having obtained many treasures this time, may I ask whether the Fuyu Dynasty can share a portion?"

The prince stepped forward; this was the Shenluo Crown Prince, who asked directly without any politeness.

After all, Puyuan Mountain belongs to the Fuyu Dynasty; to loot the treasures and leave outright, they naturally were unwilling.

"There will be."

"But wait until my sect's settlement is complete before speaking."

The Shangqing Daoist merely cast a faint glance at the other, then said little and led his people away.

Watching the departing Shangqing Daoist, the Shenluo Crown Prince wore a forced smile; once fully distant, his complexion turned exceedingly grim.

They knew the immortal sect was greedy, but they didn't expect the Shangqing Daoist to be so greedy—giving nothing at all, and still calling it an alliance? I fuck your mother.

There's no recourse; now the advantage lies with the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect, and they have already seized the initiative. Even if one objects, what can be done? The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's actions are indeed disgusting, but the great world conflict is a contest of strength.

This is unavoidable.

Very soon.

Inside the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

As disciples returned laden, the elder beside the Shangqing Daoist could not help but speak.

"Sect Master, if we act like this, will it look unsavory? After all, now that we've joined the Alliance, if we give them nothing at all, I'm afraid it will cause the Alliance to become divided."

An elder spoke up, also feeling that the Shangqing Daoist was indeed being unsavory.

However, the Shangqing Daoist shook his head and said.

"I am not refusing to give them anything; rather, I want them to know that if they wish to obtain benefits, they must obey the words of my Tai Xuan Immortal Sect."

"At present, though they each seem incensed beyond control, aren't they, after all, just wanting a share of the spoils?"

"After half a month passes, we will give them a portion, and they will still show us utmost respect."

The Shangqing Daoist spoke out, expressing his own thoughts.

"But even so, I fear they still harbor resentment; perhaps they might cooperate with Gu Jin Nian."

"After all, Gu Jin Nian is now a saint."

The elder could not help but speak; although the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect currently holds the advantage, the problem is that Gu Jin Nian has also become a saint, and for now they are still inferior to Gu Jin Nian.

Moreover, Gu Jin Nian's master is also a contemporary saint.

"This is even better; it reveals who is aligned with us and who is not."

"Furthermore, although Gu Jin Nian has become a saint, once we finish refining this Star Ancient Tree, our sect can also step into the Seventh Realm."

"In addition, with so many Heavenly Materials and Earthly Treasures, in three months the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect will become the foremost sect in the world."

"By then, our immortal sect will have strong ones like clouds; regarding individual strength we may not surpass the two saints, but at least with the aid of immortal artifacts we can contend with them."

The Shangqing Daoist's words were filled with confidence, for the Star Ancient Tree had granted him great self‑assurance.

"Sect Master."

When the other side opened their mouth again, as if wanting to say something, the Shangqing Daoist shook his head outright.

"Very well, no need for further words."

"Our sect knows its own limits."

Having said that, he took a step forward and spoke loudly.

"The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect has been in seclusion for several months; all disciples have been allocated treasures, exerting their utmost to advance their realms and welcome the Great World."

His voice rang out, echoing throughout the entire Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

Tens of thousands of disciples, upon hearing this, instantly burst into joyous cheers.

This was a great harvest, acquiring various treasures, spiritual pills and miraculous medicines; after devoted cultivation, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's strength will inevitably surge severalfold.

And the Shangqing Daoist's figure vanished directly into the Small World.

He intends to refine the Star Ancient Tree.

However, before reentering the Small World, he cast his gaze toward the Da Xia border, then toward Pan Shan and Tianqi Mountain.

Having obtained the Star Ancient Tree, his ambition is immense.

Naturally, he wishes to obtain even more.

Without further hesitation, he took a step, entered the Small World, and began devoted cultivation, striving to refine the Star Ancient Tree sooner.

Thus.

The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's acquisition of the Star Ancient Tree sparked massive discussion.

Some speculate that the Shangqing Daoist can, with the aid of this Star Ancient Tree, step into the Seventh Realm, and if he successfully refines it, it will bring further benefits.

It may even allow him to comprehend the Star Great Divine Skill.

Others think that the Puyuan Mountain Beast, newly gestating, is currently weak; once it truly transforms, it will revenge against the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

Nevertheless, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect has indeed gained benefits.

However, its actions have also provoked huge controversy.

As the head of the Eastern Wilderness Immortal Sect, they truly have no sense of shame.

All the great immortal sects are very angry.

Including the Fuyu Dynasty, which is also extremely angry; the two sovereigns of the Fuyu Dynasty have already dispatched envoys to the Great Jin Dynasty to discuss this matter.

They promised the Alliance, yet shared nothing at all.

It can be said that the Shangqing Daoist's deeds have indeed incited public anger.

Thus some voices rose.

"Today, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect, Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, Yin Yang Immortal Sect, and Ten Thousand Stars Ancient Sect all wield immortal artifacts; in this Great World struggle they reap all the benefits, while our sect can only watch helplessly."

"This Great World struggle has only just begun; we compete fairly for treasures, yet are forcibly threatened. If we wait until these four great sects all obtain the treasures, does that mean that then, even a glance at a treasure would get us killed?"

An elder cultivator spoke up; he was a Sect Master of an immortal sect, a Sixth Realm powerhouse. Before the Great World's arrival, his prestige was considerable; now, though somewhat diminished, he still retains some influence.

He was furious, representing many cultivators in denouncing the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's actions.

However, faced with such accusations, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect was even more direct, simply ignoring them.

"To put it bluntly, relying on the Xuanhuang Tower, the Star Ancient Tree, and the various treasures of Puyuan Mountain, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect fears nothing."

Yet such behavior truly provokes disgust.

As time passes bit by bit.

More and more people speak out, criticizing the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect, until finally some extreme voices arise.

"If the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect does not give an explanation."

"We will settle a life‑or‑death battle with the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect."

"While the Shangqing Daoist has not yet broken through the Seventh Realm, kill the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect."

"Anyway, in the end we are just fish‑food; might as well take a gamble now and kill the bastard."

"Kill!"

"Destroy the Yin Yang Sacred Land, the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, and the Ten Thousand Stars Ancient Sect together; after all, we don't need each other, so why care about their feelings?"

These voices were very fierce.

At the same time, this also represents humanity.

When there is no benefit, everyone keeps each other warm; but once a benefit appears and few reap it, someone will rebel.

The momentum is huge.

In the end, the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, the Yin‑Yang Sacred Land, and the Ten Thousand Stars Ancient Sect all struggle to bear it.

This is no joke.

They have not yet received Heaven's Mandate's benefit; honestly, they think the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect acted wrongly, and they understand the principle that when the lips are gone, the teeth feel the cold.

Who can guarantee that after the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect gains the benefit, it won't trouble them?

Especially since the great sects are indeed angry; if they unite, they truly cannot be stopped.

Therefore, led by the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, the great sects march toward the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

With the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect, the Yin‑Yang Immortal Sect, and the Ten Thousand Stars Ancient Sect leading the three great sects, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect indeed restrains itself, no longer as arrogant as before.

After several days of negotiation, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect gave a positive answer.

It is willing to share half of the heavenly materials and earthly treasures with all sects.

This answer satisfied everyone, even surprising them; they did not expect the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect to be so generous.

However, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect soon put forward a request.

Spiritual crystals.

Sharing is possible, but a selfless share is impossible; spiritual crystals must be exchanged for these treasures.

This request silenced many sects; first, they have few spiritual crystals, and second, spiritual crystals can revive divine weapons, so giving them to the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect…

Future spiritual crystals given may become the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's tyrannical capital.

All sects turned their gaze toward the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect.

What they didn't expect was that the three great sects unusually agreed.

This left the sects silent.

But the three great sects all consented; even with many suspicions, they could do nothing.

Soon, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect placed Puyuan Mountain's treasures in the Treasure Hall, labeling each with the corresponding spiritual crystal price.

That is fair enough.

As for why the Dragon Tiger Dao Sect agreed, there is no other reason.

The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect secretly informed that it had taken out the best batch of treasures for the three great sects, plus the Fuyu Dynasty and the Great Jin Dynasty, to select.

Of course, if they want more, they still must pay spiritual crystals; this is also reasonable.

Thus the three great sects agreed outright.

After all, the upcoming Divine Mountain revival will be theirs, so they understand that letting the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect give out much now means they will also have to give out plenty later.

It might be better to wait patiently; it's unlikely that a few months later the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect will become invincible outright. One must admit, the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect's handling is fairly decent.

At least it quelled the anger.

Thus.

Time passes bit by bit.

In the blink of an eye.

Two and a half months fly by.

In these two and a half months, the liveliest scene is still the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect; it obtained a massive amount of treasures, and the sect's spiritual Qi flows like liquid, occasionally signaling breakthroughs.

Sixth Realm cultivators.

The Tai Xuan Immortal Sect originally had only three members.

One was a Shangqing Daoist, another the Grand Elder of the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect, and the third a Great Elder.

Now, with the blessing of Puyuan Divine Mountain's heavenly materials and earthly treasures, in just two and a half months—

—there are ten who have broken through to the Sixth Realm, nearly a hundred have entered the Fifth Realm, and overall strength has risen by almost tenfold.

This is merely the benefit brought by a Divine Mountain.

For a moment, the whole world's attention converges on Pan Mountain, and inevitably also on its interior.

And it was on this day.

Gu Jin Nian's Saint Path has been transmitted for three months, and today is the final day.

It is a striking coincidence that

this day.

Da Xia Dynasty.

Da Xia Capital.

Inside the Grand Temple.

A figure slowly emerged from the Small World.

It was the figure of Emperor Yongsheng.

Having disappeared for nearly four to five months, Emperor Yongsheng's expression had grown somewhat aged.

During those almost five months, Emperor Yongsheng forged iron day and night.

Finally, he forged ten thousand sets of golden battle armor.

These ten thousand golden armors nearly cost Emperor Yongsheng his life.

"Come, people!"

A roar sounded.

Emperor Yongsheng's face looked a bit gloomy.

"Your Majesty."

"You've come out of seclusion?"

At this moment, Wei Xian's figure appeared, hurrying to the side of the Yong Sheng Great Emperor.

He spoke, his eyes filled with joy.

"Mm."

The Yong Sheng Great Emperor nodded; he had previously announced publicly that he would go into seclusion.

"Bring Su Wenjing into the palace."

The Yong Sheng Great Emperor spoke: his first task was not to look for Gu Jin Nian, but to inquire about Su Wenjing, wanting to ask about the situation at Jixia Academy and whether Gu Jin Nian had won any chess games against others.

Even if it was just one game.

"Your Majesty, you need to change your address; Mr. Su Wenjing has become a saint, and from now on you should call him Saint Su Wenjing."

Wei Xian spoke, kindly reminding him.

"What?"

"Has Mr. Su Wenjing become a saint?"

This time the Yong Sheng Great Emperor was shocked.

He hadn't expected that after five months of forging, Su Wenjing had actually become a saint? "Mm."

"He became a saint five months earlier, at Jixia Academy."

Wei Xian said with a smile, but just as he was about to speak again, the Yong Sheng Great Emperor exclaimed joyfully.

"Good."

"Good."

"Good."

"Truly, Heaven blesses Da Xia, Heaven blesses Da Xia!"

"Then we won't disturb Mr. Su Wenjing; summon Gu Jin Nian quickly."

"Hahaha."

The Yong Sheng Great Emperor beamed.

"Oh, Your Majesty, the times have changed."

"The Heaven's Mandate Marquis has also become a saint; you must change your address as well."

"You should call Gu Jin Nian a saint."

Wei Xian continued.

Reminding the Yong Sheng Great Emperor.

At that moment.

The Yong Sheng Great Emperor froze in place.

?

?

?

What the heck? Gu Jin Nian also became a saint?

I've been forging for five months, and my nephew Gu Jin Nian became a saint? What a fellow.

You damn it.

Are you trying to fool me? The Yong Sheng Great Emperor is completely stunned.

But at that instant, abruptly, a terrifying aura surged, shaking heaven and earth.

It was the aura of the Seventh Realm.

The Seventh Immortal Dao Realm.

In an instant, the Yong Sheng Great Emperor's expression changed.

Within the Tai Xuan Immortal Sect.

A thunderously resonant voice rang out, shaking the world.

"I am the Shangqing True Person; today, I attain the Seventh Realm of the Dao."

The terrifying voice sounded.

It caused anomalous phenomena in heaven and earth.

The Seventh Immortal Dao Realm, terrifying as it is.

A terrifying aura.

But it focused toward the Da Xia border.

Obviously.

This is the Shangqing Immortal notifying.

Using this method to inform Gu Jin Nian.

He has entered the Seventh Immortal Dao Realm.

Not inferior to a saint! (End of chapter)