Chapter 261: The Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame

"It is useless to say these things now. The most urgent task is to select four Foundation Establishment disciples to rush to the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom and head to the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame," Sect Master Wu Yue Huang said in a deep voice.

"That's right. The Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame contain precious Core Formation medicinal herbs. It is even rumored that the depths contain herbs that can help people break through the Core to form a Nascent Soul, and help Nascent Soul cultivators increase their magic power. Unfortunately, apart from the Profound Heaven Pavilion and the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom, no other forces have the opportunity to enter those depths.

However, even so, the Core Formation medicinal herbs are extremely precious, and this great opportunity must not be missed. Two hundred years ago, the Blood Blade Sect of the Wu Yue Kingdom had a stroke of luck; of the eight people who went in, four successfully formed their Jin Dan shortly after returning.

It is precisely because of that trip to the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame two hundred years ago that the Blood Blade Sect leaped to become the number one sect in the Wu Yue Kingdom. This time, we only have four spots, so we must treat it with even greater solemnity and select the most suitable disciples to seize the opportunity," Xiao Xiao Hongyi said with a solemn face.

"I don't think there's anything to select. Everything should be decided by strength. Among the Foundation Establishment disciples, whoever is stronger should go," the Head of the Merit Hall, Qiu Qiu Dongyan, said calmly.

"That's right. To seize the opportunity, one naturally needs powerful strength. Everything should be decided by strength," the Head of the Dharma-Protecting Hall, Xing Zhan, immediately echoed, his voice ringing out with force.

The expressions of the crowd were subtle, and they hesitated to speak.

The disciples of these two, one Li Li Tinggui and one Shang Shang Yiyang, were the recognized strongest Foundation Establishment perfection cultivators in the Profound Heaven Sect.

In the same realm, they were invincible within the sect.

If one followed their logic, since there were only four spots, two would be locked in immediately.

For the remaining people to fight for the two spots, the difficulty would be immense.

"That is also fine, it's fair!" After a long time, Wu Yue Huang spoke.

"Then summon all Foundation Establishment perfection disciples for a duel in the fighting arena the day after tomorrow," Qiu Qiu Dongyan said.

"Why only summon Foundation Establishment perfection disciples? Can other Foundation Establishment disciples not participate?" Zuo Zuo Dongge raised his eyebrows slightly.

"There are only four spots this time, and even for Foundation Establishment perfection disciples, it is extremely difficult to compete for them. Cultivators below Foundation Establishment perfection have no chance at all. Letting them participate in the duel is just a waste of time.

While Nephew Daoming is indeed formidable, he is ultimately only at the early Foundation Establishment realm. Could it be that you still hope he can stand out among the many Foundation Establishment perfection disciples and win a spot?" Qiu Qiu Dongyan's mouth curled up slightly, revealing a cold sneer.

"That's right, Xu Shixiong Zuo. Nephew Daoming is certainly formidable, and in time, he will surely be the most outstanding among the Foundation Establishment perfection disciples. But he is still young, and wanting to duel with a crowd of Foundation Establishment perfection disciples to compete for a spot is still lacking," Xing Zhan echoed.

Many elders nodded upon hearing this, expressing their agreement.

Only Sect Master Wu Yue Huang, Head of the Dharma-Protecting Hall Xiao Xiao Hongyi, and Elder Luo Luo Qian, among a few others, had subtle expressions.

"Ten years ago, Daoming was only at the early Foundation Establishment realm and already defeated a late Foundation Establishment disciple. Now that he is already at the mid Foundation Establishment realm, why can he not stand out among the Foundation Establishment perfection disciples?" Zuo Zuo Dongge said unhurriedly.

"Even if Nephew Daoming is now at the mid Foundation Establishment realm, so what? How can the gap between late Foundation Establishment and Foundation Establishment perfection be compared to the gap between early and mid Foundation Establishment?" Qiu Qiu Dongyan revealed a look of embarrassment and anger.

Firstly, it was because her consideration was lacking, and she hadn't considered that after ten years, Xia Daoming's cultivation realm had broken through; secondly, it was because the late Foundation Establishment disciple who was defeated back then, Fei Fei Tingmei, was precisely her disciple.

The elders nodded again upon hearing this.

What Qiu Qiu Dongyan said was a common fact.

The expressions of Wu Yue Huang and the others became even more subtle.

Especially Luo Luo Qian; the wrinkles on his thin, withered face were trembling.

"Enough, for this duel, all Foundation Establishment disciples are eligible to sign up." Wu Yue Huang didn't wait for Zuo Zuo Dongge to speak again, having already made the decision first.

Once Wu Yue Huang said this, except for Luo Luo Qian, Xiao Xiao Hongyi, and Zuo Zuo Dongge who had expressions of understanding, and Qiu Qiu Dongyan who had a look of shame and anger, the rest of the people looked at each other in dismay.

"That is also fine. Some disciples are too arrogant; taking this opportunity to let them suffer a little is not necessarily a bad thing," Qiu Qiu Dongyan quickly took a deep breath and said with a calm face.

As she spoke, Qiu Qiu Dongyan glanced at Zuo Zuo Dongge intentionally or unintentionally.

Wu Yue Huang and Xiao Xiao Hongyi saw this, looked at each other, and secretly shook their heads with a bitter smile.

With the matter of the duel selection decided, the crowd discussed some other matters and then dispersed.

"Li Tinggui, in the duel the day after tomorrow, when you face Xia Daoming, you must defeat him with the force of thunder," the Merit Elder's mansion, Qiu Qiu Dongyan instructed Li Li Tinggui with a cold and stern expression.

"Master, rest assured. Ten years ago, I wanted to take action and teach him a good lesson, but Master believed it would be suspected of bullying the small and winning unfairly, so I stopped.

Now that he doesn't know the immensity of heaven and earth and actually wants to compete for a spot to the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame with a mid Foundation Establishment cultivation, then I cannot be blamed for suppressing him with great force," the tall and sturdy Li Li Tinggui said with a loud voice.

While Qiu Qiu Dongyan was instructing Li Li Tinggui, on the other side, Luo Luo Qian looked at his daughter, Luo Mu, who had less arrogance and more of the fortitude of wind and frost on her face, and felt complex emotions.

In that battle ten years ago, he, Luo Luo Qian, could be said to have lost all face, and he was naturally very dissatisfied and annoyed with Xia Daoming.

But seeing his daughter suffer that setback, know shame and then be brave, and in a short ten years, her strength had greatly increased, with a little more hope of forming a Jin Dan, Luo Luo Qian felt that he still had to thank Xia Daoming.

If it weren't for him, his daughter could not have had today's achievements.

"With your current strength, if the spots for the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame were like in the past, with eight, you would have great hope. Now that there are only four, the hope is slim."

"No matter how slim, I must still fight for it."

"Well said! However, besides having the courage not to retreat, a duel also requires strategy. This duel is divided into two groups, adopting a round-robin system. Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang, as the recognized strongest seeded players, will not be arranged in the same group.

These two already have combat power comparable to False Core cultivators. You cannot be their opponent. There is also Xia Daoming. If you encounter any of these three, you must directly admit defeat to preserve your strength."

"Xia Daoming?"

Luo Mu's pretty face changed slightly.

"You should understand by now that ten years ago, he was able to win against you twice not by luck, and not because you underestimated the enemy! The reason a genius is a genius is that in the same amount of time, his progress will only be greater than others."

"Daughter understands!" A look of loneliness and helplessness appeared in Luo Mu's eyes.

In the battle ten years ago, at first she was unconvinced, but as time passed and that battle kept replaying in her mind, she had completely understood that even if they fought again, she would definitely not be Xia Daoming's opponent.

"You understand, but others don't. This is your opportunity."

Heavenly Jianfeng.

"In the battle the day after tomorrow, you don't need to hide your skills; you must win a spot."

Zuo Zuo Dongge looked at Xia Daoming, rarely having a serious face.

"No need to hide skills, wouldn't that be bad?"

Xia Daoming's mouth twitched.

Ten years had passed, and every day he ate the flesh of fourth-tier demonic beasts refined by the meridians, along with many other precious medicinal herbs.

Now, even Xia Daoming himself was not very clear about what level of strength his body-refining martial arts had reached.

If he really didn't hide his skills, Sect Master Uncle would have to take the field himself.

"The Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame contain many precious opportunities, and this is the only chance; it must not be lost. This time, besides Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang, there are several other formidable characters. If you want to lock in a spot, you definitely cannot do it without showing your true abilities.

As for showing off a bit, it's not a big problem. As long as you haven't formed a Jin Dan, even if your performance is outstanding, it won't attract high-level attention from other forces. I suppressed you before, it was merely out of caution."

"Alright, since Master says so, then this disciple will reluctantly be high-profile." Xia Daoming said with a helpless face.

As for not hiding skills, that was definitely impossible.

They were just some Foundation Establishment perfection cultivators; if he didn't hide his skills and really slapped down with one palm, it would cost lives.

"Get back to your Red Flame Peak!" Zuo Zuo Dongge waved his large hand.

He hated seeing this disciple of his looking even more punchable than he did when he was young.

In the blink of an eye, the day of the duel selection arrived.

There were a total of eighteen participants, divided into two groups, with a round-robin tournament within the group first, and the top four from each group entering the next round.

Among the eighteen, except for Xia Daoming, who was at the mid Foundation Establishment realm, the rest were all Foundation Establishment perfection disciples.

Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang, as the number one and number two seeded players, were intentionally separated into two groups.

The rest of the people decided their groups by drawing lots.

Very coincidentally, Xia Daoming drew into Li Li Tinggui's group.

In the same group, there was also Luo Mu.

Luo Mu saw that she had drawn into the group of death, and her face looked ugly.

The rest of the people in the same group were all beaming with joy.

A mid Foundation Establishment cultivator was clearly a free point!

Li Li Tinggui was even happier, grinning at Xia Daoming.

"Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong Xia, your courage is commendable. Don't worry, I will have a sense of proportion when I take action."

"Just for Xu Shixiong Li's words, I will definitely leave you some face later."

"Haha! Then many thanks, Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong." Li Li Tinggui cupped his hands, his face carrying obvious mockery.

"No need to thank me, we are all fellow sect brothers, it is only right." Xia Daoming smiled and waved his hand.

The people on the side shook their heads upon seeing this.

To be so overestimating one's own capabilities to this extent was truly rare.

This was Li Li Tinggui; apart from Shang Shang Yiyang, who dared to say they could fight him, who else was his opponent in the entire Profound Heaven Sect?

Soon, the duel began.

"First match, Xia Daoming versus Luo Mu."

A Jin Dan elder called out the names loudly.

Xia Daoming flew down to the arena.

"Luo Mu has often practiced outside these years, and her strength has soared. Xia Daoming will definitely be completely crushed this time."

"That is for sure, the realm is right there. I don't know where Xia Daoming gets his confidence from; with his realm, he actually dares to come and compete for a spot in the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame."

"..."

While the crowd was discussing and preparing to watch a good show, on the viewing platform, Luo Mu bit her rosy lips, stood up abruptly, and cupped her hands toward the Jin Dan elder in charge of the competition: "This battle, this disciple admits defeat!"

"Ah!"

The whole audience was in an uproar.

"Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong Luo, surrendering without a fight, this daughter of yours is very unlike you, not to mention that Daoming is only at the mid Foundation Establishment realm." Qiu Qiu Dongyan turned her head to look at Luo Luo Qian on the side.

Luo Luo Qian's thin, withered face twitched, and he smiled without mirth: "Xu Shixiong Sister Qiu, I believe in my daughter's choice."

"This..."

Qiu Qiu Dongyan was slightly startled upon hearing this, and then shook her head repeatedly.

Since Luo Mu admitted defeat, Xia Daoming had no choice but to return to the viewing area.

The duels between Foundation Establishment perfection cultivators were still very intense and also very pleasing to the eye.

Dazzling light illuminated the entire fighting arena from time to time.

The sound of rumbling followed one after another.

Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang were indeed very powerful.

As long as they took the stage, the duel generally ended very quickly, without any suspense.

While most of the others were evenly matched and fought very intensely and arduously; after a duel, both sides were often exhausted.

Not long after, Xia Daoming was called to the stage again.

Xia Daoming circled with his opponent for a long time before defeating him.

But even so, it was still shocking to people.

Except for a few people, no one thought that Xia Daoming would actually win.

The defeated disciple was even more depressed and annoyed to a mess.

He thought it was his own carelessness and Xia Daoming's luck.

After a short rest, Xia Daoming took the stage for the third time.

This time, Xia Daoming still circled with his opponent for a long time, and then defeated him just at the right moment.

"He actually won again!"

In the viewing area, the crowd was shocked again.

"So what if he won? She Anzu and Ruan Han's strength is not considered strong among the disciples." Qiu Qiu Dongyan curled her lips in disapproval.

However, when Xia Daoming took the stage for the fourth time and, after a bitter battle, finally defeated Xiao Xiao Hongyi's proud disciple Teng Teng Chenghan, a trace of gravity finally appeared on Qiu Qiu Dongyan's face.

But fortunately, Xia Daoming only defeated Teng Teng Chenghan after a bitter battle.

While her disciple Li Li Tinggui could defeat Teng Teng Chenghan relatively cleanly and neatly.

Who was strong and who was weak was clear at a glance.

Afternoon.

Xia Daoming took the stage for the seventh time and finally faced Li Li Tinggui.

When the two stood facing each other, the entire fighting arena suddenly became quiet.

It seemed that no one was paying attention to the duel in the other group on the other arena.

Li Li Tinggui saw that Xia Daoming had no losses just like him, and had long been holding back his energy, preparing to suppress Xia Daoming with the force of thunder, so that he could show his ability as the number one person in the group.

So as soon as he made a move, Li Li Tinggui fully activated his Heavenly Net Stone.

In just an instant, stones flashing with golden light, giving people an incomparably heavy feeling, filled the sky, sealing the entire fighting arena and leaving Xia Daoming with nowhere to escape.

The golden stones fell like a group of stars, causing the space to fluctuate.

In the viewing area, some disciples saw that the power of the golden stone group was so huge, and their faces turned pale, only then realizing that when Li Li Tinggui fought him just now, he hadn't used his full strength at all.

"Li Tinggui's magic power is truly profound. Even I would have to spend some effort to deal with such a large-scale, fierce attack!" A Jin Dan early-stage elder said to Qiu Qiu Dongyan.

"Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong Wan is overpraising." Qiu Qiu Dongyan waved her hand with a look of self-satisfaction.

Before Qiu Qiu Dongyan's voice had even fallen, points of green light shot up into the sky.

That green light turned into stalks of green mysterious bamboo.

The branches and leaves of the mysterious bamboo stretched out, like green silk ribbons entangling the stones that were falling rapidly.

The stones were entangled, and their falling speed slowed down.

Xia Daoming, shrouded under the sky of golden stones, then dodged the falling golden stones with ease.

Li Li Tinggui's face changed slightly.

But soon he gritted his teeth and activated the Heavenly Net Stone even more crazily.

The golden stones smashed down even more densely.

Xia Daoming shook his head upon seeing this.

Originally, Li Li Tinggui's magic power was profound and comparable to a False Core cultivator, while his own Qi Refining path was only at the mid Foundation Establishment realm. If Li Li Tinggui circled with him slowly, relying only on the Qi Refining path, even with the help of powerful spiritual sense, it would be difficult for Xia Daoming to defeat him, and he would have to use some body-refining martial arts.

As a result, this Li Li Tinggui was too confident and brave; seeing that the situation was not right, he still insisted on his own way, wanting to suppress him with great force. And his spiritual sense was powerful, most adept at precisely using the method of "four ounces to move a thousand pounds" to circle with people slowly.

Li Li Tinggui's fighting style would soon be powerless, and at that time, Xia Daoming wouldn't need to use body-refining martial arts to directly finish him off.

However, in the viewing area, the vast majority of people didn't think so.

They all thought that Xia Daoming couldn't withstand Li Li Tinggui's bombardment at all.

Because under the sky of golden stones, even though Xia Daoming used nine thousand-year mysterious bamboo swords to entangle and slow down the speed of the golden stones, under the magnificent momentum of the offensive, he still looked like a flat boat in a stormy sea, with the danger of the boat being destroyed and the person dying at any time.

Only a few people like Xiao Xiao Hongyi thought that Li Li Tinggui's rash advance gave Xia Daoming a chance to win.

However, in terms of winning odds, they were still more inclined toward Li Li Tinggui.

After all, Li Li Tinggui's strength was already comparable to a False Core cultivator.

Li Li Tinggui was indeed very powerful.

His magic power was profound.

He bombarded Xia Daoming for nearly half an hour, and was still full of energy, with no signs of fatigue.

On the contrary, Xia Daoming, relying on the branches released by the mysterious bamboo swords to entangle and gain time to dodge left and right, was disheveled and looked a bit embarrassed.

"I have to say, this child Daoming has a very strong ability to dodge and save his life, actually being able to hold on for half an hour." Qiu Qiu Dongyan said, intentionally glancing sideways at Zuo Zuo Dongge.

"Indeed very strong, but such blind dodging is just futile, and he will eventually be defeated. Since that is the case, it would be better to fight magnificently, at least like a man!" A Jin Dan elder shook his head and said, a trace of disdain appearing at the corner of his mouth.

"That's right, if you are going to lose, you should lose magnificently; this is too cowardly." Another Jin Dan elder echoed.

"Nonsense! Fighting magnificently means certain defeat, why not cowardly survive and look for opportunities, at least there is a chance to win. Everyone is a Jin Dan elder, yet they don't see as clearly as my disciple, and I don't know where they lived to at their age." Zuo Zuo Dongge rolled his eyes and scolded unceremoniously.

"Xu Shixiong Zuo, you can't say it like that, it's really that Daoming has no hope of winning." The Head of the Dharma-Protecting Hall, Xing Zhan, saw this and came out to smooth things over.

"Which eye of yours saw that Daoming has no hope of winning? Isn't he still fine now? As long as he hasn't admitted defeat, there is hope of winning."

"Enough, Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong Xing, don't argue with him now, wait until Li Tinggui wins, and then see what he has to say!" Qiu Qiu Dongyan said with a cold face, glancing at Zuo Zuo Dongge.

Time passed for another half an hour amidst Li Li Tinggui's bombardment and Xia Daoming's dodging.

Xia Daoming was still the same, disheveled and looking embarrassed.

Li Li Tinggui no longer had his previous calm and composed appearance; sweat had already started to appear on his forehead, and his breathing was a bit coarse and heavy.

However, Li Li Tinggui didn't believe in evil.

His magic power was comparable to a False Core cultivator, and he absolutely didn't believe he couldn't suppress a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator!

Another hour passed.

As the sun gradually fell behind the Profound Heaven Mountain, the matches of the others had already ended, leaving only Xia Daoming and Li Li Tinggui still in a stalemate.

In the viewing area, Qiu Qiu Dongyan's face looked ugly.

Many Jin Dan elders looked at each other in dismay.

They never expected that under such a magnificent attack, Xia Daoming could actually persist for such a long time.

Now, Li Li Tinggui clearly already had signs of being at the end of his strength; if something went wrong, he might capsize.

Even if he didn't capsize, his energy consumption was so huge that the probability of losing the match against Luo Mu later would be very high.

Because for this competition, only a quarter of an hour was given for rest in between.

Another quarter of an hour passed.

Wind suddenly rolled up clouds and mist to shroud the fighting arena.

In the clouds and mist, suddenly a point of sharp green light flashed, as if a dragon lurking in the clouds and mist had suddenly poked out its ferocious claws.

At the same time, a hazy light shone out, falling on the magic treasure lingering around Li Li Tinggui.

Li Li Tinggui's defensive magic treasure paused slightly, and that sharp green light pierced in with incomparable precision from the gap in the flaw.

"Xu Shixiong Li Tinggui, you lost."

A calm voice sounded.

The clouds and mist dispersed.

A green light flying sword wreathed in light mist was pressed against Li Li Tinggui's neck.

It was precisely the Azure Cloud Sword that Zuo Zuo Dongge used in his early years.

After entangling with Li Li Tinggui for more than two hours, Xia Daoming, relying only on his Qi Refining cultivation, took advantage of his exhaustion and finally found an opportunity, simultaneously sacrificing the Mysterious Hazy Mirror and the Azure Cloud Sword.

One move to defeat the enemy.

The entire fighting arena was dead silent.

Not to mention the other Jin Dan elders, even Zuo Zuo Dongge was stunned for a long while, unable to come back to his senses.

Others didn't know, but he, this disciple's master, was very clear that he also had body-refining martial arts cultivation.

He originally thought that Xia Daoming would finally use his hidden body-refining martial arts to turn defeat into victory.

As a result, this guy actually defeated Li Li Tinggui without even using his body-refining martial arts.

"I lost, I actually lost!" Li Li Tinggui was dispirited, unable to accept that this was true.

Qiu Qiu Dongyan's face changed uncertainly, and it took a long time for it to return to normal, saying: "Victory and defeat are common matters for soldiers, just win it back tomorrow."

"Yes, Master!" Li Li Tinggui knelt on one knee.

Another hour passed.

The result of the competition in Xia Daoming's group finally settled.

Xia Daoming won all eight matches and ranked first.

Li Li Tinggui, Luo Mu, and Teng Teng Chenghan tied for second, all losing two matches.

Luo Mu could be considered to have picked up a leak, facing the exhausted Li Li Tinggui in the last match and defeating him, ultimately only losing to Xia Daoming and Teng Teng Chenghan.

There were a total of eight people promoted from the two groups, and the final four spots would be decided the next day.

The next day.

Li Li Tinggui faced Shang Shang Yiyang in the first battle.

Li Li Tinggui directly admitted defeat, causing an uproar among the crowd.

However, soon, everyone understood.

Li Li Tinggui wanted to preserve his strength to defeat Xia Daoming and wash away yesterday's shame.

In the third battle, Li Li Tinggui fulfilled his wish and faced Xia Daoming.

This time, Li Li Tinggui changed yesterday's brave tactic of blind bombardment and instead fully utilized the defensive advantages of the Earth-element cultivation method to entangle with Xia Daoming.

He didn't believe that with his profound magic power foundation, as long as he didn't act rashly, he couldn't grind down a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator.

Li Li Tinggui's magic power foundation was indeed profound.

Xia Daoming's Qi Refining realm was ultimately too different from his, and he couldn't grind him down.

Helplessly, seeing that the timing was about right, Xia Daoming had no choice but to be slightly high-profile.

Borrowing magic spells to contain the opponent, he then took out the Mysterious Dragon Spear while rushing out like a cannonball, killing into the flaw of Li Li Tinggui's defense with lightning speed.

The seemingly heavy earth wall collapsed directly with a bang under the Mysterious Dragon Spear.

The spear tip was pressed against Li Li Tinggui's neck.

In the viewing area, almost everyone stood up abruptly subconsciously, their faces filled with shock.

Even Jin Dan elders like Luo Luo Qian and Xiao Xiao Hongyi, who had some idea in their hearts, couldn't help but stand up.

Only Zuo Zuo Dongge lifted his butt slightly and sat back in his seat, with a look of disapproval on his face.

"Blood Sea! He must have opened up a Blood Sea!"

A Jin Dan elder couldn't help but exclaim.

"That's right, his physique and strength are so powerful, he must have already opened up a Blood Sea, and his Blood Sea is already very powerful; the power erupted in an instant is already comparable to a False Core cultivator." Xing Zhan narrowed his eyes, his gaze sharp.

Zuo Zuo Dongge still sat in his seat calmly, curling his lips in disapproval, as if this didn't count for anything at all.

"Xu Shixiong Li Tinggui, sorry, you lost again!" Xia Daoming cupped his hands toward Li Li Tinggui.

Li Li Tinggui, who was in a daze, woke up suddenly, looking at Xia Daoming with complex eyes.

"Many thanks for the guidance, Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong, I am convinced of my defeat." After a long time, Li Li Tinggui's complex gaze gradually returned to calm, and he cupped his hands toward Xia Daoming with a solemn face.

"Standing so high, yet still able to recover his state of mind so quickly when falling, this child Li Tinggui has the hope of walking further than Sect Master Xu Shixiong in the future." Zuo Zuo Dongge saw this and suddenly sat up straight, commenting with a serious expression.

"Zuo Zuo Dongge, do you really think so?" Qiu Qiu Dongyan's face changed slightly, and her gaze toward Zuo Zuo Dongge was quite complex.

"Cultivation is not just about magic power, but also about cultivating the heart. The 'Ten Thousand Mountains Art' is difficult to cultivate, progress is slow, and it tests the Dao heart the most. If the Dao heart is unstable and wavering, one will inevitably fall short of success. This child's temperament is better than yours; he can calmly accept defeat and recognize his own shortcomings. Unlike you, after so many years, you are still competing with me." Zuo Zuo Dongge glanced at Qiu Qiu Dongyan and said unhurriedly.

Qiu Qiu Dongyan's face changed several times upon hearing this, and finally, she took a deep breath, turned her head, and stopped paying attention to Zuo Zuo Dongge.

"I think Xia Daoming doesn't need to compete anymore, let him take a spot directly, and let the others continue to compete." Xiao Xiao Hongyi suddenly spoke and suggested.

"That's right, he is already too dazzling, he should appropriately restrain his light to avoid attracting high attention from other forces too early. After the selection tournament, everyone, Xia Shidi Brothers, remember to remind your disciples not to spread the word about Xia Daoming defeating Li Li Tinggui." Wu Yue Huang said with a serious face.

"Yes, Sect Master Xu Shixiong." The Jin Dan elders responded one after another.

——

"From the perspective of previous openings of the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame, the degree of danger is not considered high, but the opportunities hidden inside are very great. Therefore, every time the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame open, major forces flock to it, wishing they could take a few more spots.

However, the so-called degree of danger not being high is only relative to the great opportunities of the ancient ruins. Every time, many outstanding disciples will fall inside. Therefore, even if your strength is outstanding, you must not be careless.

Especially remember, once you encounter a Jin Dan cultivator from the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom, hide as far as you can, and do not come into contact with them."

A few days later, Heavenly Jianfeng, back hall of the Elder's mansion, on the lawn by the pond, Zuo Zuo Dongge looked at Xia Daoming and instructed with a serious expression.

"Aren't only cultivators below Jin Dan allowed to go in?" Xia Daoming raised his eyebrows slightly, revealing a look of doubt.

"That is what is said, but the Jin Dan cultivators of the Profound Heaven Pavilion and the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom can borrow the 'Heaven-Deceiving Spirit Talisman' to conceal their Jin Dan aura, deceive the heavens and cross the sea, and enter the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame."

"Heaven-Deceiving Spirit Talisman? There is actually such a spirit talisman! Could it be that other forces don't have such spirit talismans?"

"No, this talisman is not only extremely difficult to refine, but also requires a special spirit wood, the Heaven-Deceiving Wood. This wood only grows one tree on the Tianmin Peak of the Profound Heaven Pavilion, and only the Profound Heaven Pavilion can refine it.

Every time the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame open, the Profound Heaven Pavilion will take out ten Heaven-Deceiving Spirit Talismans, keeping five for themselves, and distributing the other five to the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom that have a deep connection with the Profound Heaven Pavilion.

As for the cultivation forces of the other six countries in the Great Xiao Xuan Domain, not only do they not have such treatment, but there are also harsh regulations on the spots to enter the ancient ruins.

Because my Profound Heaven Sect has had some changes in the last two hundred years, our strength has declined severely, so this time we were only allocated four spots, while the Star Moon Sect and the Changhe Sect were both allocated eight spots."

Speaking to the end, Zuo Zuo Dongge's expression was somewhat gloomy and ugly.

"Has my Profound Heaven Sect's strength decline severely related to Master's injury that time?" Xia Daoming looked at Zuo Zuo Dongge and asked thoughtfully.

Zuo Zuo Dongge looked at Xia Daoming, a look of astonishment flashing across his face: "You are very smart. That time, not only was I injured, but one of the two great Nascent Soul ancestors of my Profound Heaven Sect, who is also your grandmaster, was killed by demons."

"Is it related to the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom?" Xia Daoming lowered his head and was silent for a moment upon hearing this, then raised his head and asked.

Zuo Zuo Dongge's small body couldn't help but tremble slightly, and his gaze toward Xia Daoming was full of amazement.

"You brat, you really exceeded Master's expectations!"

"Actually, it's nothing. Master just pointed out that the disciple should be wary of the Jin Dan cultivators of the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom. Clearly, we should have a grudge with the five great cultivation families, otherwise, as dignified Jin Dan cultivators, why would they make things difficult for Foundation Establishment cultivators?"

"The one who truly has a grudge with my Profound Heaven Sect is the Qi family of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom, and the other four cultivation families are also not very willing to sit and watch the rise of our cultivation forces, threatening their status, so they will also suppress us if they have the chance.

However, the Profound Heaven Pavilion is not willing to see the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom become too powerful, so although the origin relationship is deeper with the five great cultivation families, they want to borrow the cultivation forces of the six countries such as the Great Liang Kingdom and the Wu Yue Kingdom to check and balance the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom.

In short, the cultivation forces of the seven countries in the Great Xiao Xuan Domain are intricate and complex, and definitely not as simple as they appear on the surface. You will naturally understand these things slowly after you have experienced more in the future.

Now you just need to remember, when entering the ancient ruins, the one you must be most wary of is the Qi family of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom, and do not try to enter the restricted area in the depths of the ancient ruins.

"It is said that a fifth-rank demonic beast lurks there, with strength comparable to a Nascent Soul ancestor. Even if a Core Formation cultivator enters, they would perish inside if they were the slightest bit careless. Therefore, even if you already possess the strength of a False Core cultivator, venturing into the forbidden zone is a dead end."

Speaking to the end, Zuo Zuo Dongge's expression was unusually serious.

"Is there medicinal herb inside that helps people break through the Core to form a Nascent Soul, which Nascent Soul cultivators want? Is the true goal of the Jin Dan cultivators of the Profound Heaven Pavilion and the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom that restricted area?" Xia Daoming's heart moved slightly, and he asked.

"That's right, but this has nothing to do with you. It is said that without Jin Dan strength, one cannot even enter the entrance of that restricted area, and every time the Jin Dan cultivators who go in suffer more than half losses.

Therefore, your goal is the opportunity outside the restricted area. There are many opportunities hidden in the periphery of the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame, and if you are lucky, it will be enough for you to benefit from."

"Disciple understands." Xia Daoming nodded, but his mind was turning rapidly.

With his strength, since he has the opportunity to enter the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame, how could he miss the opportunity inside the restricted area?

It's just that it's not appropriate to reveal it to Zuo Zuo Dongge now.

"For this trip to the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame, Master has two things to give you for self-protection. One is the 'Dark Yin Thunder'; once activated and exploded, it can be comparable to a full-strength blow from a mid Jin Dan cultivator;

One is the 'Golden Guard Spirit Armor Talisman'. This talisman is a broken piece and can only be activated two more times, and can withstand two blows from a late Jin Dan cultivator.

Originally, Master had a 'Small Teleportation Talisman' here to help you escape, but the space in the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame is special, and the Small Teleportation Talisman cannot be used inside.

"It is a pity that your Qi Refining realm is too low, making it difficult for your magic power to support magic treasures. Otherwise, with your powerful spiritual sense, I could have bestowed another magic treasure upon you, which would have provided an extra trump card for seizing opportunities."

Zuo Zuo Dongge said, taking out a black, pigeon-egg-sized bead and a talisman emitting dark golden light, with incomparably ancient and complex runes drawn on it.

"Many thanks for Master's generous gift! Master, rest assured, this disciple will definitely not live up to Master's high expectations." Xia Daoming took the Dark Yin Thunder and the Golden Guard Spirit Armor Talisman with both hands, his expression solemn, and his heart moved.

His strength was powerful, and these two items were not considered very precious, but for other Foundation Establishment perfection cultivators, or even early-mid Jin Dan cultivators, they were incomparably precious life-saving items.

"You brat are even more treacherous and cunning than some old guys. Speaking of which, Master has nothing to worry about or explain, just be careful in everything. Go, take advantage of the time you still have, and prepare well these days." Zuo Zuo Dongge waved his hand.

——

One month later.

A large python, covered in bowl-sized dark scales and growing a pair of wings, rolled up clouds and mist, soared into the sky from the Profound Heaven Mountain, and flew toward the north, in the direction of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom.

This large python was named the Ying Python.

A descendant of ancient fierce beasts.

On the back of the Ying Python sat four men and one woman.

They were the team leader, Head of the Dharma-Protecting Hall Xiao Xiao Hongyi, and the four people participating in the trip to the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame: Xia Daoming, Li Li Tinggui, Shang Shang Yiyang, and Tong Li.

Tong Li was Sect Master Wu Yue Huang's personal disciple.

The strength of Xiao Xiao Hongyi's disciples, Teng Teng Chenghan and Luo Mu, was ultimately slightly inferior, and they failed to get a spot.

"Ahead is Gongqiu Mountain, where we will meet with the people from the Star Moon Sect and the Changhe Sect. In the Great Liang Kingdom, although there are conflicts and disputes between our three major sects, you must remember that among our three major sects, no single sect can independently support the Great Liang Kingdom; we are all interdependent.

Therefore, when dealing with the outside world, the three major sects have always been united and will not give forces from other countries the opportunity to defeat us one by one and dominate my Great Liang Kingdom. This trip to the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame is the same; once inside, the disciples of our three major sects must be united against the outside world and not kill each other.

Of course, one must be wary of others; apart from your own fellow sect members, do not trust anyone else, especially in the face of interests, you must have an extra heart of vigilance, and don't foolishly become someone else's prey."

As the Ying Python was piercing through clouds and crossing mist, Xiao Xiao Hongyi suddenly pointed to a mountain ridge full of yellow trees more than ten miles away and instructed the crowd.

"By the way, Daoming, from now on, do not mention your Master's name to anyone." As the Ying Python flew closer to Gongqiu Mountain, Xiao Xiao Hongyi suddenly remembered something and specifically instructed Xia Daoming.

"Could it be that my Master has many enemies outside?" Xia Daoming blurted out.

"Many enemies is not quite right, but your Master's limelight is too strong, and he has offended quite a few people."

"Sigh, my Master loves to be in the limelight too much! It has caused me, this disciple, to not only be targeted and bullied everywhere within the sect, but also to be targeted and bullied after leaving the sect." Xia Daoming shook his head and sighed helplessly.

The three people standing behind Xia Daoming couldn't help but twitch their faces upon hearing this.

Especially Li Li Tinggui, who was even more tearful.

Clearly, you are the one bullying us, okay?

"Ahem, there are mountains beyond mountains, and people beyond people. The outside world is different from within the sect, you brat should still be careful, it is best not to mention your Master's name." Xiao Xiao Hongyi reminded helplessly.

He never dreamed that this kid's limelight would be even stronger than Zuo Zuo Dongge's when he was young.

"Xu Shixiong Uncle, rest assured, this disciple is only at the mid Foundation Establishment realm, how would I dare to provoke others casually." Xia Daoming said with a humble face.

The crowd silently looked up at the sky upon hearing this.

The Ying Python's speed was very fast, and in the blink of an eye, it flew over Gongqiu Mountain.

At the summit of Gongqiu Mountain, nine people and a giant eagle with green feathers and golden eyes had already gathered.

Standing on the back of the Ying Python, the sharp-eyed Xia Daoming saw a familiar figure whose good figure could not be concealed even by a loose white fairy dress through the clouds and mist.

It was precisely that charming woman who had met him three times in the Dragon Fish Sea.

"Xu Shixiong Xiao, it's been many years, how have you been lately?" As the Ying Python rolled up flying sand and rocks and landed slowly on the summit, a slightly sharp voice sounded.

"Many thanks for Xu Shixiong Luo Qian's concern, Xiao is very well." Xiao Xiao Hongyi led Xia Daoming and the four others off the Ying Python and cupped his hands in salute toward a man standing in front of the Star Moon Sect crowd, who had a starry sky embroidered on his clothes, was tall and thin, and had a pair of "frowning" eyebrows.

"Are these the four outstanding disciples selected by the Profound Heaven Sect? Eh, why did you also select a mid Foundation Establishment disciple? Could it be that he is a descendant of Xu Shixiong Elder Huangfu?" The Star Moon Sect's Jin Dan elder surnamed Luo Qian swept his gaze over Li Li Tinggui and the four others, finally landing on Xia Daoming, a look of surprise and unexpectedness appearing on his face.

The Xu Shixiong Elder Huangfu in Elder Luo Qian's mouth was the only remaining Nascent Soul ancestor of the Profound Heaven Sect.

It was no wonder Elder Luo Qian had this guess.

The spots for the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame were related to the prosperity of the sect; if Xia Daoming didn't have a special status, how could they give such an important spot to a mid Foundation Establishment disciple.

"Hehe, Xu Shixiong Luo Qian thinks too much. Regarding the matter of spots, how would Xu Shixiong Uncle Elder Huangfu engage in favoritism? Although this child's realm is only at the mid Foundation Establishment, his ability to adapt is very strong, so he was given a spot." Xiao Xiao Hongyi explained with a smile.

"So that's how it is." Elder Luo Qian smiled disapprovingly and curled his lips.

While Elder Luo Qian and Xiao Xiao Hongyi were talking, the charming woman in white standing behind him, who was Yuwen Feng, kept staring at Xia Daoming, her eyes full of disbelief.

She remembered very clearly that when she first met Xia Daoming, he was only a Qi Refining perfection cultivator, and he had gone deep into the north of the Dragon Fish Sea alone.

As a result, only ten years had passed, and Xia Daoming was not only at the mid Foundation Establishment realm, but he had actually obtained the qualification to enter the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame.

Thinking of the last time they met, when this guy said with a bitter and helpless face that his family was poor and he had to take risks in the Dragon Fish Sea, Yuwen Feng even felt a trace of shame and anger in her heart.

Would someone qualified to enter the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame be a poor, miserable person?

This guy was clearly playing and fooling her back then!

It was laughable that she had even felt a trace of sympathy for him back then.

While Yuwen Feng was staring at Xia Daoming, Shang Shang Yiyang, Li Li Tinggui, and some male disciples of the Star Moon Sect were all looking at Yuwen Feng with burning eyes mixed with a trace of awe.

"You all go and get to know each other and communicate among your peers." Elder Luo Qian waved his large hand toward Yuwen Feng and the others, then nodded to Xiao Xiao Hongyi, and the two walked side by side to the side to exchange pleasantries.

As soon as the two left, Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang were just about to step forward to greet Yuwen Feng, but Yuwen Feng had already walked up to Xia Daoming, her red lips parted slightly: "Fellow Daoist is really hiding your true strength!"

"Xu Shixiong Sister is overpraising. I am just a mid Foundation Establishment cultivator; in front of Xu Shixiong Sister, how would I dare to talk about hiding true strength!" Xia Daoming smiled humbly.

Li Li Tinggui and the three others couldn't help but twitch their mouths upon hearing this, and their gaze toward Xia Daoming was very subtle, actually blending admiration and contempt together.

What they admired was that this guy actually knew the famous Yuwen Feng.

What they despised was that this guy was playing the pig again.

"Hmph, you wouldn't dare?" Yuwen Feng glared at Xia Daoming.

"Xia Shidi Sister, do you know this person?" A white-clothed man with a high-spirited appearance walked up, glancing at Xia Daoming with disdain mixed with a trace of hostility.

"Who I know is none of your business!" Yuwen Feng replied coldly, then looked at Xia Daoming and said: "This Fellow Daoist, can we borrow a step to talk?"

"That wouldn't be good, we aren't very familiar, and I am a married man. If you have anything to say, just say it here." Xia Daoming didn't hesitate and blurted out.

The male disciples of the two major sects were all staring at her, wishing they could take her into their rooms.

This woman was clearly a disaster-level beauty.

Xia Daoming didn't want to bring disaster upon himself for her sake.

"You!" Yuwen Feng looked at Xia Daoming, so angry that waves rose on her chest.

"This!" And Li Li Tinggui and the others were dumbfounded, simply unable to believe that someone would actually refuse Yuwen Feng's active invitation.

Setting aside her temperament and beauty, this woman was not only the recognized number one among the Foundation Establishment disciples of the three major sects, but she was also a Red Phoenix Spirit Body, one of the legendary best dual cultivation spirit bodies.

It is rumored that important figures from the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom and even the Profound Heaven Pavilion had entrusted people to the Star Moon Sect to act as matchmakers for this woman.

It was just that Yuwen Feng didn't agree, and the Star Moon Sect didn't want the fat water to flow into outsiders' fields, so it had been dragged out.

As a result, now, this guy Xia Daoming not only knew Yuwen Feng but also directly refused her private invitation; how could Li Li Tinggui and the others not be shocked and surprised?

"This Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong still has self-knowledge, not bad, not bad!" The high-spirited man nodded and praised Xia Daoming, but anyone could hear the pride in his tone and his contempt for Xia Daoming.

"I have always had self-knowledge, unlike Xu Shixiong, who has no self-knowledge at all." Xia Daoming shrugged, glanced at the high-spirited man, and then flashed, quickly hiding behind Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang.

Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang looked at the man full of anger, then looked back at Xia Daoming hiding behind them, speechless.

"Xu Shixiong Li, Xu Shixiong Shang, you move aside, I want to teach this kid a lesson and let him know the immensity of heaven and earth." The high-spirited man had a trace of anger on his face, and a powerful momentum burst out from his body, causing strong winds to blow all around.

What kind of person was he, Wu An, to allow a mere mid Foundation Establishment disciple to provoke him to his face?

Xiao Xiao Hongyi, who was exchanging pleasantries with Elder Luo Qian, felt the movement over there, his face changed slightly, and he turned his head to look.

"Xu Shixiong Xiao, if the juniors want to make trouble, let them make trouble, let us elders not interfere. When we were young, didn't we come through like this too?" Elder Luo Qian turned his head and looked, then said to Xiao Xiao Hongyi with a smile.

Xiao Xiao Hongyi's face changed several times, and he specifically glanced at Xia Daoming from afar, then nodded helplessly: "Xu Shixiong Luo Qian is also right."

"Xu Shixiong Li, Xu Shixiong Shang, this Star Moon Sect Xu Shixiong wants to bully the small with the big, you must help me block him." On the other side, Xia Daoming continued to hide behind the two Xu Shixiong Brothers.

Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang looked at each other, both seeing the helplessness in each other's eyes.

Wu An's strength was about the same as theirs.

Could he still bully Xia Daoming?

If they really fought, it would be good if he wasn't bullied by Xia Daoming.

"Wu An, if you want to teach my Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong a lesson, that's fine, but you must first defeat me, Li Li Tinggui." Although helpless, Li Li Tinggui still stepped forward, his tall and sturdy body facing Wu An proudly, like a towering mountain, unmoved by the howling wind.

Wu An looked at Li Li Tinggui, his face changed several times, and finally, he looked coldly at Xia Daoming, a trace of disdainful sneer at the corner of his mouth: "Be smarter in the future, not every time will someone protect you!"

"This Xu Shixiong Sister, what exactly did you want to say to me just now?" Xia Daoming seemed to have not heard Wu An's warning at all, walked out from behind Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang, looked at Yuwen Feng, and asked with a curious face.

"Nothing!" Yuwen Feng said angrily.

"Women are really fickle, just a moment ago you said you had something to say to me." Xia Daoming muttered softly.

Yuwen Feng bit her teeth lightly, suddenly feeling a bit regretful that Wu An hadn't been able to teach this kid a lesson just now.

About half an hour passed.

The people from the Changhe Sect arrived flying through the air on a large ship covered in silver light.

The Changhe Sect, like the Star Moon Sect, also had nine people.

One elder at the late Jin Dan realm, and eight Foundation Establishment perfection disciples.

The Profound Heaven Sect only had four spots this time, and one of them was only a mid Foundation Establishment disciple; with the three parties gathered together, the Profound Heaven Sect clearly looked much more shabby.

Yuwen Feng was indeed a disaster-level beauty.

As soon as the Changhe Sect people arrived, two outstanding disciples surrounded Yuwen Feng to offer courtesies, making Wu An very jealous, feeling as if he had been "greened". Soon, he had a dispute with those two outstanding disciples, and they even started sparring on the spot.

"A beautiful lady is a gentleman's pursuit, why don't the two Xu Shixiong Brothers go and compete? With the strength and handsome image of the two Xu Shixiong Brothers, there is still a chance." Xia Daoming said while watching Wu An and the Changhe Sect's second-generation number one disciple Shen Shen Xulong fighting, and asked Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang on the side casually.

Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang's old faces turned slightly red upon hearing this, and they didn't say a word.

"Them? They already competed long ago!" Tong Li on the side curled her lips and said.

"So that means they failed! Failure doesn't matter, if you want to hold the beauty in your arms, you must have perseverance, be undaunted by repeated setbacks, and become braver with each fight! Two Xu Shixiong Brothers, come on, I am optimistic about you!" Xia Daoming made an encouraging gesture with his fists toward Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang, with a sincere face.

Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang's old faces turned even redder upon hearing this, and then they seemed to be moved, looking up at Yuwen Feng, their eyes flickering, not knowing what they were thinking.

Tong Li glanced at Li Li Tinggui and Shang Shang Yiyang unhappily upon seeing this, then turned to Xia Daoming: "Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong might not know, that Yuwen Feng is not only beautiful and has a good figure, but her strength is above all Foundation Establishment disciples, and she is also a Red Phoenix Spirit Body; becoming a dual cultivation partner with her is of great benefit to cultivation. I see she seems to have some interest in you, why don't you go and compete for it yourself?"

"I already have two charming wives, this life is already without regrets!" Xia Daoming said with a solemn and serious face upon hearing this.

"Xia Shidi Xu Shixiong is truly a gentleman, Xia Shidi Sister Liu and Xia Shidi Sister Ji being able to become your cultivation partners is truly a fortunate thing." Tong Li was filled with respect upon hearing this.

"Where, where, it should be said that I don't know what kind of luck I cultivated in my previous life to be able to marry them both." Xia Daoming waved his hand humbly.

Between the two talking, Wu An gradually fell into a disadvantage.

Elder Luo Qian frowned slightly and said: "Xu Shixiong Xiao, Xu Shixiong Tao, I think the time is about right, let's set off now."

"That's fine!" Xiao Xiao Hongyi and Elder Tao of the Changhe Sect nodded slightly.

Soon, the duel between Wu An and Shen Shen Xulong was forced to be interrupted.

A dragon, a giant eagle, and a large silver ship soared into the sky and flew toward the direction of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom.

Fifteen days later.

Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom, Huoyun Prefecture, above the center of a large lake in the south.

There was a stretch of flames burning fiercely for over a hundred miles, shaped like a giant ancient divine bird, a fire phoenix, spreading its wings and flying.

From time to time, fireballs smashed down from the sky onto the large lake, the lake surface boiled, and clouds and mist steamed.

The flames set off the lake surface and clouds and mist, forming a beautiful scene like a fairyland.

In the mid-air around the area where the sea of fire was located, hundreds or thousands of people were suspended.

These people were at least at the Foundation Establishment cultivation.

Among them, there was no lack of Jin Dan cultivators, and even the five people closest to the sea of fire were Nascent Soul cultivators.

These five Nascent Soul cultivators had their clothes fluttering, and their bodies emitted astonishing auras.

Xia Daoming, along with Li Li Tinggui and the three other Profound Heaven Sect disciples, surrounded Xiao Xiao Hongyi and stood in the crowd, looking up at the five Nascent Soul cultivators, a trace of gravity appearing in their eyes.

The five Nascent Soul cultivators were all at the early Nascent Soul realm, but any one of them brought Xia Daoming a very intense sense of crisis.

"Ever since I opened up the boundless Blood Sea, I haven't had much pressure facing Jin Dan cultivators, and now even facing late Jin Dan cultivators, I can't talk about much pressure.

But those five Nascent Soul cultivators stood far away, and the aura on their bodies gave me huge pressure. It seems that there must be a huge strength gap between the Jin Dan stage and the Nascent Soul stage.

And no matter how powerful my Blood Sea is, in terms of realm, it is ultimately at the Foundation Establishment realm similar to the Qi Refining path. I can kill Jin Dan cultivators across one level, but currently, I still cannot cross the gap between the Nascent Soul realm, which is like a chasm."

Xia Daoming looked up at the five great Nascent Soul ancestors and speculated secretly.

"Fortunately, Nascent Soul cultivators cannot enter the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame, and the best quality Heaven-Deceiving Spirit Talisman can only conceal the aura of a mid Jin Dan cultivator at most. With my strength, once I enter, as long as I am careful, I am not afraid of them."

Soon, Xia Daoming withdrew his gaze from the five great Nascent Soul cultivators and looked thoughtfully at the ten Jin Dan cultivators standing behind the five great Nascent Soul ancestors.

Seven early Jin Dan cultivators, three mid Jin Dan cultivators.

When Xia Daoming looked at the Jin Dan cultivator group, an old man with red hair and a pigeon face was looking toward his side, his eyes carrying a trace of murderous intent, and a trace of contemptuous sneer at the corner of his mouth.

This old man was Qi Qi Shixin, one of the Jin Dan clan elders of the Qi family, one of the five great cultivation families of the Great Xiao Xuan Kingdom.

Yesterday, when Xiao Xiao Hongyi arrived with the four of them, this old man and the Qi family people revealed murderous intent toward them without any concealment.

For this reason, Xiao Xiao Hongyi privately instructed the four of them again, telling them to be vigilant against the Qi family people.

Besides the Qi family disciples, the disciples of the Black Evil Hall of the Wu Yue Kingdom and the Seven Kill Sect of the Great Yan Kingdom also held great hostility toward the Profound Heaven Sect.

According to Xiao Xiao Hongyi, these two families had had great conflicts with the Profound Heaven Sect in history.

However, the strength of these two families could not be compared with the Qi family, and they only had seven spots, with the most powerful being at Li Li Tinggui's level. Once inside, if they really met on a narrow road, it was uncertain who would win or lose; Xiao Xiao Hongyi just reminded the four of them to be careful, but wouldn't be too worried.

After all, having entered the Ancient Ruins of Nirvana Flame, they had this psychological preparation.

"After entering the ancient ruins, if there is an opportunity, I must kill this red-haired old monster first, otherwise once Xu Shixiong Li and the others encounter him, they will surely die." Xia Daoming met Qi Qi Shixin's gaze and smiled at him slightly, carrying a trace of weirdness.

Qi Qi Shixin was stunned for a moment when he saw Xia Daoming actually had the courage to smile at him.

But soon Qi Qi Shixin's old face sank, and he had already firmly remembered Xia Daoming's appearance in his heart.

One old and one young, each harboring murderous intent, the sea of fire in the sky suddenly darkened.

"Attack!"

The five Nascent Soul cultivators saw this, their expressions tightened, and they gave a low shout, each of them shooting out a sword light from their bodies.

The five sword lights gathered together, forming a giant sword light claw, probing into the sea of fire, fiercely stirring and tearing.

A pitch-black space crack appeared, forming an incomparably distinct contrast with the fiery red sea of fire all around.

PS: After stopping updates in early June, I felt more and more powerless, and even my legs were shaking when walking up stairs. I also became as thin as an old man. Later, I went to the hospital for an examination and found out it was hyperthyroidism, and the situation was already quite serious. The doctor prescribed medication for hyperthyroidism, which slowly suppressed the indicators. During the medication period, because my immunity dropped, I had a fever three times in just over a month, and I was completely exhausted. Only then did I understand what it meant for illness to come like a mountain collapsing.

After taking the medicine for about two months, the indicators finally gradually returned to normal, but I still need regular check-ups and must persist in taking the medicine for a year or two. Moreover, the doctor said that even if hyperthyroidism is cured, it is easy to recur after stopping the medicine.

After the indicators gradually returned to normal, I wrote some when I was in good condition, but I mainly focused on recuperation and didn't put pressure on myself. Because once there is pressure, it is easy to suffer from insomnia at night, and I am afraid that hyperthyroidism will start again.

Therefore, I will continue to relax my mindset for the next half year, write some when I have time, and then publish a large chapter every month. I will save the rest and keep it for the official restart of serialization in December. This way, with saved manuscripts, my writing mindset will be more relaxed.

I am approaching fifty, need to earn money to support my family, and also need to take good care of my body for my family. I hope book friends can understand, and I also thank the book friends for their messages of concern and support during this period.

I will also publish a large chapter at the end of next month.

I wish all book friends a smooth life and good health! ===== CHAPTER 262 =====