Chapter 215: Four-Color Array: Seven-Star Demon-Binding Array (6k)

Seeing so many supreme spirit stones vanish into Second Uncle’s pocket, Yan Xiaohu suddenly slapped his forehead, filled with regret.

He had absolute faith in Old Four—how could he have forgotten this?

At this moment, Jiang Pojun finally came to his senses, took a deep breath, and his eyes gradually lost their resentment and disappointment, replaced by genuine admiration.

“I’ve lost—defeated, and I accept it wholeheartedly. Brother Zhou, you’re exceptional; I look forward to your guidance in the future!” Jiang Pojun bowed with clasped fists.

Zhou Qing felt a surge of admiration himself at Jiang Pojun’s swift recovery.

Among all the people he’d met, few could accept defeat so calmly and rebound so quickly; Jiang Pojun’s openness and magnanimity forced him to take new notice.

The opponent’s realm was formidable—if Zhou Qing hadn’t shattered it first, this battle would have dragged into a grueling struggle, never ending so decisively.

Thus, Zhou Qing promptly returned the bow, his expression humble: “Brother Jiang, you’re too modest. Your strength has greatly benefited me. This sparring was merely luck. If opportunity arises, I hope to exchange insights with you again.”

The two exchanged a shared smile; in that instant of eye contact, mutual respect deepened between them.

…

Inside the cabin, Zhou Qing sat cross-legged when Second Uncle knocked and entered with a grin, handing him five supreme spirit stones.

“Fifty-fifty split—am I not a good guy?” Second Uncle beamed.

Zhou Qing was thrilled—he’d drained every last resource to break through to Soul Transformation, and now he was utterly penniless.

“Thank you, Second Uncle!” Zhou Qing said quickly.

Second Uncle waved his hand. “I stoked the fire; you did the hard work. Our teamwork is perfect.”

He patted Zhou Qing’s shoulder proudly.

Zhou Qing smiled faintly.

Then Second Uncle pulled out one supreme fire-affinity spirit stone and one supreme water-affinity spirit stone.

He chuckled awkwardly, eyes glinting slyly. “Five regular supreme spirit stones for one—willing to trade? I’m giving you a half-price deal just because we’re familiar. Normally it’s ten to one.”

Zhou Qing stared at the two elemental spirit stones, gritted his teeth, and immediately traded for the fire-affinity one.

After all, the fire and water petals in the four-color bloom let him move like a fish in water under those specific conditions.

Since his breakthrough to Soul Transformation, they’d undergone some unknown transformation—absorbing corresponding spirit stone energy might elevate his strength further.

Second Uncle must have noticed this, hence the offer.

The path of cultivation is full of trade and exchange; even among closest kin, nothing should be given freely.

Moreover, he’d truly gotten the better end of the deal.

“Thank you, Second Uncle!” Zhou Qing said again, sincerely.

Second Uncle laughed heartily. “Rest well—next up, it’s all on you.”

With that, Second Uncle closed the door and left, clearly pleased.

Zhou Qing stared at the supreme fire-affinity energy in his hand, took a deep breath, and immediately activated the Yin-Yang Scripture to begin absorption.

…

A full month later, using major teleportation arrays and space ships across the provinces, the group finally arrived safely at the borders of the Shengwu Imperial Dynasty.

As everyone looked down from the railings, they were instantly awestruck by the sight before them.

Stretching into the distance was a winding, endless black defensive line.

The dark green city walls were riddled with holes, covered in claw marks dozens of zhang deep.

Countless tattered battle flags snapped violently in the gale, stirring the hearts of all present.

“That’s the Four-Color Array—Seven-Star Demon-Binding Array!” Lin Daochen’s voice trembled with unrestrained excitement as he pointed downward at a massive array.

Everyone followed his gaze and saw seven meteor-sized stars hovering above the city wall.

Each meteor was linked by purple-gold chains, each chain hung thick with demon clan skulls.

Jiang Pojun walked over, his expression solemn. “Master Lin has sharp eyes. This array was purchased three thousand years ago by the former emperor from a Level Four array master and meticulously installed along the border.”

He paused slightly, his eyes revealing pride and nostalgia. “Look here—along the wall, evenly spaced, are twelve bronze cauldrons. Inside, they simmer demon beast fat mixed with cinnabar.”

“If any cauldron spews green smoke that blankets a section of the wall, it signals heavy demon energy approaching from that direction—we can prepare in advance.”

Hearing this, everyone’s eyes lit up; they fixed their gazes on the four shifting colors of the massive array, exclamations of awe rising in waves.

Lin Daochen was utterly entranced.

Then Jiang Pojun turned to Lin Daochen, his expression growing slightly grave. “Master Lin, our cultivation realm has no Level Four array masters. Over the years, this array has developed many faults. That’s why we’ve invited you—to help repair it.”

Lin Daochen nodded slowly, already impatient.

As the space ship descended slowly, the group remained on the railings, still not stepping onto the land, yet immediately felt the intense killing aura unique to the border region.

The air reeked of rot and blood, nearly suffocating.

As soon as the group stepped out of the cabin, rapid, heavy footsteps approached.

Dozens of soldiers clad in silver armor surged forward like a tide.

“My lord! You’ve returned!” The Longxiang Army soldiers cried out, excited, quickly surrounding Jiang Pojun.

Clearly, Jiang Pojun held extraordinary prestige among them.

Jiang Pojun looked at these familiar faces, his face breaking into a genuine smile. His gaze swept slowly over each one, gently patting each shoulder in silence. “I’m back. I’ve returned!”

Zhou Qing watched this scene, deeply moved.

Since their sparring, Jiang Pojun had often come to chat with him; Zhou Qing had learned the general state of the border.

Currently, nine army corps guarded the Shengwu Imperial Dynasty’s border, and Jiang Pojun belonged to one of them—the Longxiang Army.

He held the rank of Deputy General.

“Why are they here too?” At that moment, Yan Xiaohu slipped beside Zhou Qing and pointed ahead.

Zhou Qing followed his gaze and saw Xuan Yuan Shuo leading a large group forward with cheerful smiles; beside him stood two familiar figures.

It was the Seventh Imperial Prince, Xuan Yuan Yichen, and the Ninth Princess, Xuan Yuan Muqian.

Zhou Qing suddenly remembered—when they’d visited the academy before, they’d said they were training on the border, then followed the old demon master from Taiyao Mountain into the interior after seeing him sneak in, chasing after their imperial grandfather, Xuan Yuan Shuo.

They’d been forced to halt, fearing detection, and had stopped by to visit Master Lu.

Seeing old acquaintances, Second Uncle subtly shifted his stance aside—only then did he notice Lu Yuanzhi doing the same.

They exchanged a glance, both lowering their heads.

“Ah, Master Lin! We’ve been waiting for you!” A loud, cheerful laugh drew near as Xuan Yuan Shuo strode forward.

Lin Daochen stepped forward steadily, raised his hand in greeting, his posture humble yet proper.

After all, the man before him wasn’t merely a terrifying Zhan Ling cultivator—he was the Shengwu Imperial Dynasty’s guardian god of the border.

Lin Daochen dared not slacken for a moment.

“Your Highness!” Lin Daochen spoke first; behind him, the others followed suit in bowing.

Xuan Yuan Shuo immediately reached out, helping Lin Daochen up, his movements bold and generous. “Master, you’re too formal—come in, come in! Master Su and Master Wu have been waiting.”

He stepped aside to lead the way, warmly inviting everyone into the hall.

Xuan Yuan Yichen and Xuan Yuan Muqian, standing nearby, had been curiously gazing—when they spotted Zhou Qing and Lu Yaoyao, their eyes brightened with surprise and delight.

Zhou Qing noticed their gaze, gave them a slight nod, signaling they’d talk later.

Then he fell into line respectfully behind Lin Daochen.

Soon, the group arrived at a grand hall.

Inside, two elderly men were resting and recuperating.

They were the two renowned Level Three array masters of the Shengwu Imperial Dynasty—Su Lishan and Wu Tiangang.

Su Lishan wore a long robe, exuding the same refined air as Lin Daochen; his face appeared youthful, every gesture radiating scholarly elegance.

Wu Tiangang was entirely different—his hair was snow-white, his nose flushed red, clearly a lifelong drinker.

Beside them, several disciples moved quietly, busily attending to tasks.

“Master Su! Master Wu!” Seeing the two elders, Lin Daochen was thrilled.

The two opened their eyes at the sound, a spark of delight flashing in their gazes; they rose quickly to greet him.

Time truly flies—years ago, Lin Daochen had sought them out through every channel, humbly asking about array techniques.

Now, times had changed—he had grown into an array master worthy of standing beside them as an equal.

“Master Lin, long time no see!” They stepped forward, exchanging greetings with warmth and familiarity.

“We’ve just come out of the Seven-Star Demon-Binding Array—forgive our tardiness.”

“Please, don’t say that—I’m the one who should feel ashamed,” Lin Daochen hurriedly waved his hand, his tone sincere.

Watching the three converse warmly, everyone stood quietly to the side, listening respectfully, afraid of disturbing this rare gathering of masters.

Zhou Qing stood among them, his gaze shifting between the masters, lost in thought.

Level Three array masters were revered even by figures like Second Uncle, and even powerful men like Xuan Yuan Shuo had to personally invite them—their esteemed status was clear.

And that Number Six—so young, already a Level Four array master, having just obtained divine herbs from the forbidden zone, now in seclusion.

Such a person, if placed in a Level Four cultivation realm, would be worshipped like a god.

It seems she’s exactly as I suspected—likely from a terrifying Level Five cultivation realm.

After a long while, Xuan Yuan Shuo, seeing the conversation wind down, stepped forward with a booming laugh. “Enough talking! The feast is ready—I’ve prepared it specially to welcome Master Lin and all of you. Let’s move!”

…

When the group entered another grand hall, the rich aroma hit them immediately.

Inside, tables were laden with an array of delicacies, the most striking being various demonic beast meats glowing with spiritual radiance.

The meats were vividly colored, making even a glance enough to make one’s mouth water.

Yan Xiaohu’s eyes bulged wide, drool nearly dripping, his throat unconsciously swallowing.

Back at Taiqingmen’s Jade Banquet Hall, these were rare delicacies requiring exorbitant prices.

And even the demonic beast meat there paled in quality and spiritual potency compared to these border-region offerings.

Everyone took their seats in turn; Xuan Yuan Muqian and Lu Yaoyao sat together, chatting quietly after years apart, their closeness evident.

Xuan Yuan Yichen then sat naturally beside Zhou Qing, smiling warmly as he said softly, “Brother Zhou, why did you come this time?”

Zhou Qing smiled. “I came along with Master Lin to broaden my horizons.”

Xuan Yuan Yichen nodded in understanding. “To be taken by Master Lin—you must have real talent in array arts. At least you’ve caught the Master’s eye. Congratulations!”

Zhou Qing waved his hand quickly, humble. “Just luck.”

Xuan Yuan Yichen picked up his wine cup and offered it to Zhou Qing. “Enough talk—let me toast you!”

Zhou Qing replied, “I don’t drink. I’ll use tea instead.”

Xuan Yuan Yichen paused, slightly puzzled.

He remembered last time he visited Bai Yu’s Tai Xu Courtyard—everyone had drunk heartily, laughing and talking freely. Why had Zhou Qing suddenly quit alcohol?

Still, he didn’t press. He merely smiled, and the two clinked cups.

Then, quietly, he began introducing Zhou Qing to the others present—the several disciples beside the two Masters, all array specialists of Nascent Soul realm, and so on.

…

Unexpectedly, early the next morning, Jiangpo Army arrived.

“Brother Zhou, Master Lin requests your presence!” Jiangpo Army called from outside the door.

Zhou Qing, still asleep, hadn’t expected the repair work to be so urgent. He quickly gathered himself and stepped out—halfway there, he saw Second Uncle being led out from the other side.

They exchanged a glance, said nothing more, and silently followed Jiangpo Army.

Soon, they were brought before the massive four-color array—the Seven Stars Binding Demon Array.

Especially when passing the enormous bronze cauldrons lining the city walls, a thick stench of blood hit them, making Zhou Qing frown.

These cauldrons were key nodes of the array, each over twenty meters tall, their surfaces covered in ancient, ever-shifting runes.

Before the array, the two third-rank array masters, Su Lishan and Wu Tiangang, were speaking in low tones with Lin Daochen.

Seeing Zhou Qing and Si Yunya arrive, Lin Daochen promptly introduced them.

Both nodded slightly.

Even they were being extremely cautious with this four-color array repair—afraid of mistakes—let alone these two youths.

Even their own carefully trained disciples merely stood by to observe.

Su Lishan said, “They may not help much at first, but this is a rare chance to learn. Let them watch and study.”

“Thank you, Master!” Zhou Qing and Second Uncle bowed.

Xuan Yuan Shuo, seeing everyone prepared, solemnly led the group into the array.

As soon as they stepped inside, Zhou Qing felt powerful spiritual energy vortices enveloping them.

Clearly, running this four-color array consumed a staggering amount of spirit stones at every moment.

Looking around, the array’s interior was riddled with damage—many runes dimmed, like candles about to go out.

The reality here, compared to the imposing exterior, was worlds apart.

The four-color spiritual energy lines along the inner walls were chaotic, intertwining and colliding with crackling sounds, on the verge of collapse.

Seeing this, Lin Daochen’s heart sank.

“How did it fall into such disrepair?” Lin Daochen said, unable to hide his anguish.

Su Lishan and Wu Tiangang both sighed. “This is already good. When we arrived five years ago, it was worse—back then, the array was nearly out of control, with spiritual chaos several times worse than now.”

Xuan Yuan Shuo, standing nearby, nodded solemnly. “Yes. These past five years, thanks to your tireless dedication and ceaseless efforts, the Seven Stars Binding Demon Array has held on this long.”

Lin Daochen suddenly felt immense pressure.

After all, he had only been a second-rank array master before—barely touched true three-color arrays, let alone this four-color one.

Su Lishan walked over and handed Lin Daochen a jade slip. “This contains the core central diagrams and all operational pathways of the array. Study it quickly.”

Wu Tiangang rubbed his bloodshot nose. “Good thing we’re only repairing sections—if we had to fix the whole thing, we’d never manage.”

Lin Daochen immediately pressed the jade slip to his forehead and began probing it.

Zhou Qing and Second Uncle glanced curiously around—when suddenly, a middle-aged man came over and deliberately bumped their shoulders.

Then, with arrogant disdain, he said, “Don’t wander off later. If you touch anything, you won’t be able to bear the consequences.”

Zhou Qing was stunned.

At the banquet, Prince Qi had introduced him—this man was one of Wu Tiangang’s six disciples, named Fang Jun.

Nascent Soul mid-realm, with twenty-six spirit seals formed—he was a true, accomplished first-rank array master.

Zhou Qing patted the spot where Fang Jun had bumped him, frowning slightly, a flicker of annoyance rising within him.

This made Fang Jun frown in return.

He and his group had been here five years. They were older. As newcomers, how dare they ignore his warning?

Second Uncle merely shook his head slightly, saying nothing.

In his long life, he’d seen too many such scenes—youthful pride clashes meant nothing to him.

Besides, he’d long passed the age of playing childish games with kids.

Zhou Qing didn’t care to argue. It seemed no matter the world, the same old script played out: veteran staff bullying newcomers.

Fang Jun had been about to say more to save face, but Lin Daochen ahead had already grasped the key array nodes needing repair.

“Zhou Qing, Si Yunya—come with me!” Lin Daochen turned and called.

Both immediately stepped forward, closely following Lin Daochen toward another direction.

As the newly promoted third-rank array master, Lin Daochen was entrusted with the critical task of repairing the array’s core runes.

These runes were like the heart’s veins of the array—once repaired, they would greatly stabilize its operation.

Su Lishan led others to untangle the chaotic spiritual energy lines; Wu Tiangang filled cracks in the ground.

“Thank you, Masters!” Xuan Yuan Shuo said, then turned and left.

Looking at the ruined scene before him, Lin Daochen said, “This is a rare chance to learn. You must observe and study carefully.”

“Yes, Master!” both replied.

Then Lin Daochen’s aura shifted sharply—three thousand spirit seals burst forth, hovering around him.

Thin threads of spiritual energy shot gently from his fingertips, weaving skillfully through several seals.

Using the seals’ amplifying power, they landed precisely on the dimmed runes.

Instantly, one rune began to glow faintly. Seeing this, Lin Daochen focused entirely on that single rune, determined to fully restore it.

Zhou Qing and Second Uncle watched intently, eyes filled with curiosity and focus, studying every repair step and pondering its principles.

After all, four-color arrays were rarely seen—now, up close, observing their intricate, complex structure, one couldn’t help but be awed.

Even Zhou Qing, at that moment, recalled the Lord of Cangyan Dao Palace, Si Kong Yan.

As a Soul Transformation peak cultivator, he had once unveiled a five-color array disc—[Seal Demon Strangling Array]—during the battle at Canglan Mountain.

Though incomplete, its rank was undeniable, and it concealed a four-color killing seal inside, trapping everyone.

And that strange black-cloaked puppet control technique, the Nine You Lotus, coveted even by Spirit Severing realm cultivators.

How had he even obtained such things?

But—

Zhou Qing sank his spirit into the inheritance left by Elder Xuan Qing, and indeed found references to the four-color array—Seven Stars Binding Demon Array.

Unfortunately, his spirit seal count was insufficient; his consciousness was blocked by an invisible barrier—he could only glimpse the overview, unable to open the full details.

But this array bore striking similarity to the [Seal Demon Strangling Array], and its rank was extremely high—among the pinnacle of four-color arrays.

Back then, the old Emperor must have spent a fortune, perhaps even exhausted countless connections and resources, to acquire and successfully deploy such a powerful array.

Long after, Lin Daochen finally restored one rune—but was already drenched in sweat.

“How do you feel?” Lin Daochen asked, smiling as he took out two spirit stones to replenish his energy.

Second Uncle chuckled. “Tedious, mentally exhausting—but once you complete one, the satisfaction is immense.”

Zhou Qing nodded in agreement. “Must be handled with extreme care. Requires immense spiritual strength—any slip could unbalance the entire array’s spiritual flow, triggering unpredictable chain reactions.”

Lin Daochen nodded, his eyes revealing a touch of admiration and awe.

Then he looked at the still-unrepaired array and said, “The master who forged this array must be nearly a fifth-rank array master—his skill is profound.”

“Even though I’ve formed three thousand seals, most are ordinary. The chance they’ll match these spirit patterns is extremely low—I don’t know how many I’ll manage to restore.”

Lin Daochen sighed, a hint of helplessness on his face.

End of month—please vote for a monthly ticket!





(End of Chapter)