Chapter 312: Heavenly South's Ancestral Vein! The Situation in Heavenly Azure

Hearing this.

Zhang Fan's eyes burned like torches, staring intently at Xu Chuan's face.

Seeing the unwavering determination to seek the truth in his eyes, he pondered for a moment before saying, "Since things have reached this point, hiding it from you would be futile.

Now that the Ancient Battlefield has opened, you are bound to go.

Perhaps... you might find that crucial item within!"

"May I ask, Senior, what is this crucial item?" Xu Chuan's curiosity was heavily piqued.

Zhang Fan's expression grew solemn as he slowly explained, "This requires discussing the origins of the Ancient Battlefield.

Previously, I only mentioned that it was a space created by the combined efforts of numerous Mahayana stage cultivators of the ancient Heavenly South.

However, the sheer vastness of that battlefield and the stability of its spatial barriers far exceed imagination.

He spoke with startling revelation, "Therefore, those Mahayana stage seniors of the past had to borrow the power of Heavenly South's Ancestral Vein to succeed!"

Xu Chuan's heart trembled violently. He felt that at this moment, he had truly touched upon an earth-shattering secret buried for eons.

But a trace of doubt also rose in his heart: 'How does Zhang Fan know of events from so long ago?'

Zhang Fan did not pause and continued, "In ancient times, that land was not merely the battlefield for the final decisive war.

It was the very core of the entire Heavenly South!

It was the location of the ancient number one sacred land!

It was the source of the Ancestral Vein!"

"What?!" Xu Chuan exclaimed, his mind reeling after hearing such a profound secret.

'That obscure corner was actually the source of the Ancestral Vein in ancient times?'

'The ancient number one sacred land?!'

"Back then, the Mahayana seniors used Greater Divine Abilities to sever the Ancestral Vein, utilizing its supreme might to open the Ancient Battlefield.

They pulled all existences at the Soul Formation stage and above from both races into that independent space, launching a life-and-death battle that would decide their fate.

And that number one sacred land was sealed along with it, dragged deep into the battlefield to remain dormant for eternity, waiting for the day it would reappear in the world."

Zhang Fan's tone carried a hint of distant nostalgia. "It is an ancient legend in the cultivation world of the Heavenly South that whoever can claim the number one sacred land in the future will become the master of the Heavenly South, worshipped by ten thousand races and ruling the cosmos."

Saying this, he stroked his beard and smiled warmly. "Of course, such grand ambitions are far too distant for you and me. I am afraid we might not even live to see the scenery of that number one sacred land."

"What exactly is that number one sacred land called?" Xu Chuan could not help but press further.

"I do not know," Zhang Fan shook his head. "All records concerning the specific name and details of the number one sacred land seem to have been deliberately erased by an invisible force after that great war."

Xu Chuan nodded. Suddenly, a thought struck him as he recalled the key detail from earlier. Shocked, he blurted out, "Senior, the crucial item you mentioned just now... could it be... the Heavenly South's Ancestral Vein?!"

"Exactly!" Zhang Fan's eyes burned bright. "Because of that earth-shattering ancient battle, the Ancestral Vein's foundation was severed, causing nearly all spirit veins within the Southern Heaven Region to drop in rank.

The heaven and earth spiritual qi grows thinner by the day.

Furthermore, the Heavenly Dao has fallen into a slumber, intangibly suppressing the realm breakthroughs of all cultivators.

Thus, the Golden Core perfection stage has become an insurmountable peak for cultivators in this world."

"To think it was like this..." Xu Chuan frowned deeply, immediately raising a question. "But how come I heard that both the Heavenly South and the Blackwater Region seem to have hegemonic powers overseen by Soul Formation cultivators?"

"That is indeed true," Zhang Fan explained. "However, due to the suppression of heaven and earth, those old Soul Formation monsters have no choice but to hide within their own heavenly grottos and blessed lands, not daring to lightly reveal their true bodies.

They fear their cultivation realm might drop, or that they might trigger a terrifying lightning tribulation they cannot withstand.

They can only walk the world using magic power avatars or dharma idol clones.

However, they have also arranged proxy factions in the mortal world.

The proxy faction for the Soul Formation experts of our Heavenly South stands firmly in the central region of the Heavenly South. Once you advance to the Nascent Soul stage in the future, you will naturally have the chance to interact with them.

Of course, there is no need to overly deify them. Their overt foundation is generally only comparable to top-tier Nascent Soul sects."

"So there were such twists and turns involved." Xu Chuan came to a sudden realization, then asked again, "Are there any clues now regarding the Ancestral Vein lost in the Ancient Battlefield?"

"As of yet, there are no clear clues," Zhang Fan shook his head. "On the surface, whether in our Heavenly South or the Blackwater Region, various factions are doing their utmost to find the whereabouts of the Ancestral Vein.

Once a faction is the first to find it and bring it out, the providence of their respective region will immediately skyrocket, making it several times easier for cultivators in that domain to break through their bottlenecks.

In the shadows, the True Demon Clan also glares like a tiger watching its prey. Their main objective is to rescue their kin who were sealed in the battlefield back then. The more they rescue, the stronger their foundation will become.

Our Heavenly South completely rejects the True Demon Clan, but the Blackwater Region has long been eroded by demonic qi. There are quite a few factions there colluding with the True Demon Clan, making the situation far more complicated."

"The entanglements within are actually so deeply rooted and exceptionally perilous." Xu Chuan sighed softly, feeling deeply that the road ahead would be arduous.

"Let us stop our conversation here for today. I have already said enough," Zhang Fan said, stroking his beard.

"This junior has benefited greatly. Thank you for answering my questions, Senior!"

Xu Chuan stood up and respectfully offered a deep bow.

A moment later, seemingly recalling another matter, he asked, "By the way, I heard that Senior did not kill Demon Lord Tianluo on the spot, but captured him alive?"

Zhang Fan smiled faintly. "That fiend is a True Demon Clan expert who successfully underwent possession to recultivate. After condensing a True Demon Nascent Soul once more, he will gradually temper a True Demon Physique.

The blood within his body is an extraordinarily potent precious medicine for cultivators practicing body-tempering cultivation methods.

Therefore, keeping him alive holds far more value than a mere corpse."

"I see." Xu Chuan nodded upon hearing this, his heart clear. "Then this junior will no longer disturb Senior's quiet cultivation."

Having said his piece, he cupped his hands in respect once more before turning and leaving the courtyard.

Although Xu Chuan had learned the truth about the Land of Imprisonment and the strict secrets behind it, he temporarily did not plan to inform the rest of the Xu Family.

After all, this matter involved stakes that were far too deep. Knowing about it would bring no benefit.

Three days later.

Zhang Fan departed, taking Xu Mingxian with him.

News of the Greedy Wolf Sect's defeat spread throughout the entire Heavenly Azure Prefecture. Greedy Wolf Prefecture cultivators scattered everywhere quickly fled, terrified of drawing retaliation from Heavenly Azure Prefecture.

However, those who were even more worried were families like the Wen Family, the Luo Family, and the Ximen Family.

After suffering severe sieges, only a small fraction of their core clan members managed to flee to the Greedy Wolf Prefecture.

If they did not leave now, once the Heavenly Azure Sect caught its breath, it definitely would not spare these traitorous families.

Jade Bamboo Sea, Mo Family.

"The Greedy Wolf Sect actually lost? Is this information accurate?" Mo Wentian frowned deeply.

"Big brother, the news is accurate. The Greedy Wolf Prefecture cultivators stationed everywhere have already fled. As for why... it is because Yan Longzi of the Heavenly Foundry Sect and the Ancestor of Profound Moon arrived at the Heavenly Azure Sect.

Demon Lord Tianluo, a True Demon who possessed a body to recultivate, was captured alive by the Ancestor of Profound Moon.

And their ultimate destination was Cloudstream Town."

Pausing for a moment, Mo Wenshang continued, "According to the intelligence I received, Cloudstream Town was besieged by the Nie and Chao families, several Golden Core demonic cultivators, and seven or eight hundred Foundation Establishment cultivators.

However, Cloudstream Town suffered minimal casualties. On the contrary, Xu Chuan relied on a divine sense secret method to slay five early-stage Golden Core demonic cultivators.

This eventually led to a magical duel between Xu Chuan and the family heads of the Nie and Chao families, while the rest simply watched.

It was only when the Ancestor of Profound Moon and his companion arrived that the Nie and Chao families, along with the others, finally withdrew."

Hearing this, Mo Wentian sighed softly. "What an impressive Xu Family. We still underestimated them!"

Shortly after, he looked at Mo Wenshang and asked, "Do you know what Yan Longzi and the Ancestor of Profound Moon went to the Xu Family for?"

"I do not know the exact details. Yan Longzi only stayed at the Xu Family for a brief moment before heading to the Heavenly Plume Sect, where he has remained ever since. As for the Ancestor of Profound Moon, he stayed for three days. Rumor has it that when he left, he took the Xu Family's Xu Mingxian with him."

"Having Xu Deling join the Heavenly Foundry Sect and Xu Mingxian join the Profound Moon Sect... Xu Chuan truly has excellent methods. But how did he establish a relationship with the Ancestor of Profound Moon?

I heard that even if Nascent Soul stage cultivators go to visit the Profound Moon Sect, he might not necessarily meet them."

Mo Wenshang said, "Big brother, the Greedy Wolf Prefecture failing on the verge of success this time is a good thing for our Mo Family. I heard that old ghost Xi was severely injured this time, nearly dying.

He already did not have much lifespan left, and now it is likely even less.

Once he dies, our Mo Family can seize the entire territory of the Heavenly Azure Sect for ourselves and become the master of the Heavenly Azure Prefecture."

"It is hard to say," Mo Wentian's eyes rippled slightly.

"Is Big brother talking about the Xu Family or the Lei Family? Although the Lei Family also has a Golden Core perfection expert, succeeding in breaking through to the Nascent Soul stage is no easy task!

As for the Xu Family, True Lord Withered Glory's combat prowess is indeed tyrannical, and he himself is a monstrous prodigy, but he is ultimately only at the early-stage Golden Core. Without one or two hundred years, how could he possibly advance to Golden Core perfection?

Even if he truly advances to the Nascent Soul stage two or three hundred years from now.

By then, our Mo Family will have long replaced the Heavenly Azure Sect as a colossus in the Heavenly Azure Prefecture, impossible to easily shake."

"This Xu Chuan is unfathomable. I have a faint feeling that the outcome of this battle is intrinsically linked to him."

"Big brother, you're overthinking it, aren't you?"

"Being cautious has no downsides. However... the Heavenly Azure Sect suffered heavy losses, and the Seven Heavenly Azure Cities were severely damaged. Because of the traitors, they are even more fragmented.

This is the exact moment for our Mo Family to expand aggressively.

Wenshang, starting tomorrow, begin arranging for the Jade Bamboo Marketplace to be developed into Jade Bamboo City, and recruit the families and rogue cultivators from the Seven Heavenly Azure Cities."

"Yes, Big brother!" Mo Wenshang's eyes brimmed with ambition.

After he left, Mo Wentian's gaze shifted toward the direction of Cloudstream Town as he muttered, "It seems the future of Heavenly Azure Prefecture is destined to be a clash between our two families.

However, I must have your Xu Family return that final favor as soon as possible.

Otherwise, we will definitely be hindered by it in the future!"

The era of the Heavenly Azure Sect had thoroughly embarked on the path to its conclusion following this battle.

The final afterglow of the setting sun would eventually be swallowed, and after the darkness, a new dawn would inevitably arrive.

White Cloud Mountain, Lei Family.

The results of this battle were also relayed to the Ancestor of the Lei Family by Lei Wuji.

Whether it was the Mo Family or the Lei Family, both had previously been oppressed by the Heavenly Azure Sect to the point where they did not dare raise their heads.

Now, the towering mountain above them had finally collapsed.

"Wuji, the Heavenly Azure Sect is already like the sun setting in the west. The Heavenly Azure Prefecture is about to enter a state where various powers vie for supremacy. It is time to fully develop the strength of our White Cloud Mountain."

"I heard there have been movements in the Jade Bamboo Marketplace recently."

"They intend to build a city, and naturally, our Lei Family cannot fall behind."

"Yes, Ancestor," Lei Wuji said, cupping his fists.

"Next, I will enter absolute seclusion to attempt the Nascent Soul breakthrough. If I succeed, we can naturally dominate a region. If I perish, our Lei Family will rely on you to support it from then on.

You can seek out factions to form an ally partnership.

If we are isolated without support, then continue to keep a low profile and hunker down the Lei Family's forces within White Cloud Mountain and White Cloud City."

"This grandson understands. Ancestor may fully commit to seclusion; this grandson will absolutely not let anyone disturb you."

Cloudstream Town.

It had gradually returned to its usual tranquility.

A young man walked down the street, taking a light sniff. "A familiar scent. I, Mei Yun, have finally returned."

Arriving before the Xu Residence.

When the guard at the gate saw Mei Yun, it was as if he had seen a ghost. "You're Captain Mei? Didn't you die a few years ago?"

"Jinx! Who told you I died? I just lost contact!"

Mei Yun's lips twitched as he moved to head inside, but he was stopped by the guard.

"Why are you stopping me?"

"Captain Mei, you claim you lost contact, but words are hollow proof. I need to report to the head steward and let him decide. For all we know, you defected to the enemy and have returned as an undercover spy to gather intelligence on the Xu Family."

"You're the one who defected! I, Mei Yun, am absolutely loyal to the Xu Family!"

The guard immediately sent a message to Wu Zhuqi to inform him of the matter.

Hearing this, Wu Zhuqi also felt surprised, so he reported it to Xu Chuan.

"He returned to the Xu Family?"

"Yes, Family Head. How should we handle this?"

"Have him tested by the Heart-Questioning Array. If there are no issues, he can serve as a patrol guard within the residence."

"Yes, Family Head."

Previously, Xu Chuan had paid zero attention to Mei Yun. Now that he had unexpectedly discovered a clue, he was determined to observe him carefully right under his nose.

Even if he intended to take him as a disciple, he still needed to thoroughly understand his character first.

He had done the exact same with Ye Fan back then.

Aside from that, Cloudstream Town had also begun expanding into a city, even planning to encompass the Heavenly Plume Sect within its borders.

For this purpose, Xu Chuan made a special trip to the Heavenly Plume Sect.

"Daoist Friend Xu, are you here looking for my martial uncle? He is still in seclusion and instructed me not to let anyone disturb him."

"Not at all." Xu Chuan shook his head. "I came to find Daoist Friend Fierce Sun."

"Looking for me? For what matter?"

Xu Chuan smiled faintly. "Currently, the Heavenly Azure Sect has suffered heavy losses, and their Grand Elder is critically injured. It will likely take years, perhaps even over a decade, for him to restore his peak condition.

As the Heavenly Azure Sect is about to step into its next era, my Xu Family naturally needs to make preparations early."

True Lord Fierce Sun raised an eyebrow. "Does your Xu Family wish to become the master of the Heavenly Azure Prefecture?"

"I imagine any faction has harbored this thought at some point. The only difference lies in whether they have the capability to fight for it."

"Even if the Heavenly Azure Sect's power is waning, a starved camel is still larger than a horse. Furthermore, there is the Mo Family, a newly promoted Nascent Soul Noble Family. How does the Xu Family intend to compete?"

"That is for my Xu Family to consider. Incorporating the Heavenly Plume Sect this time is not an annexation, but rather a mutual assistance arrangement.

The stronger my Xu Family becomes, the greater the benefits for Deling, which will be highly beneficial for her cultivation."

The Heavenly Plume Sect was built because of Xu Deling, and Xu Deling was one of the Xu Family's core clan members. This served as the link in their relationship.

"My Xu Family can designate a plot of land near the Heavenly Plume Sect to construct a marketplace dedicated to artificing. This location will become a gathering point for blacksmiths in the Heavenly Azure Prefecture.

This will also make it convenient for the Heavenly Plume Sect to recruit talented blacksmiths."

"This..." True Lord Fierce Sun stroked his beard and fell deep into thought.

"Does Junior Sister Feng Ling agree?"

"Naturally."

True Lord Fierce Sun recalled the imposing might Xu Chuan displayed a few days ago when fighting two Golden Core perfection True Lords single-handedly, and his heart still felt shocked.

He possessed a seven-pattern top-tier magic treasure in his hands, but even if he activated it, he might not necessarily be able to overcome Xu Chuan's Azure Dragon Treasure Umbrella.

Magic treasures equipped with a sword formation were always capable of unleashing power beyond their tier.

However, executing a sword formation flawlessly was extremely difficult, requiring immense divine sense and exquisite control techniques.

He admitted to himself that even if he possessed the Azure Dragon Treasure Umbrella, he could not unleash half the power of the Azure Dragon Sword Formation, not to mention that it was a high-grade defense magic treasure.

Rumors circulated that True Lord Withered Glory was already the undisputed number one person beneath the Nascent Soul stage across both the Heavenly Azure and Greedy Wolf Prefectures.

Although it was somewhat of an exaggeration, in a one-on-one fight, there was truly no one who could easily break through his Azure Dragon Treasure Umbrella and inflict severe injuries upon him.

"Martial Uncle Zhen Yangzi truly dotes on Junior Sister Feng Ling to have gifted such a precious magic treasure right when Xu Chuan reached Core Formation.

I'm afraid even the old man himself never expected that Xu Chuan would be able to unleash seventy to eighty percent of this magic treasure's power while merely at the early-stage Golden Core."

After pondering for a long while, True Lord Fierce Sun said, "Ultimately, Junior Sister Feng Ling calls the shots in the Heavenly Plume Sect. Since she is willing, then this old man has no objections."

"Thank you, Daoist Friend Fierce Sun. As for Daoist Friend Tianyang and Daoist Friend Yanzhen, please inform them on my behalf. I won't go around explaining it one by one."

"I can do that," True Lord Fierce Sun nodded.

Following that, Xu Chuan took his leave and returned to Cloudstream Town.

When Rong Tianyang and True Lord Yanzhen learned of this, they were somewhat surprised but did not voice any opposition.

Two months passed in a flash.

On this day, from within the forbidden grounds on the back mountain of the Heavenly Plume Sect, a vast and majestic aura suddenly erupted, soaring straight into the clouds!

Instantly, winds surged and clouds churned within a radius of dozens of miles. Spiritual qi in the heaven and earth converged toward that spot like a hundred rivers returning to the sea, forming a massive spiritual qi vortex.

At the center of the vortex, crimson clouds filled the sky, and the faint roar of a dragon resonated in all directions.

A scorching pressure far surpassing anything felt before enveloped the wilderness, causing everyone's hearts to tremble.

The stone door to the seclusion chamber burst open with a loud boom, and a figure slowly stepped out.

It was none other than Yan Longzi!

At this moment, dense spiritual qi surged around him. Brilliant light flowed as his eyes opened and closed, looking as if flames were burning deep within his pupils.

Evidently, by relying on the Dragon Blood Fruit this time, he had successfully broken through to the mid-stage Nascent Soul!

Following his exit from seclusion, True Lord Fierce Sun immediately came to pay his respects and reported the Xu Family's plan to build a city and incorporate the Heavenly Plume Sect into it.

Upon hearing this, Yan Longzi didn't feel the slightest bit of offense. Instead, he clapped his hands and laughed aloud, "Xu Chuan is certainly decisive!"

"Martial Uncle, according to the information I've received, the Mo Family and Lei Family are also building their own cities. The War of the Two Prefectures has only just concluded, but the turmoil in Heavenly Azure shows no signs of stopping."

"Where there are cultivators, there will be conflict!" Yan Longzi said indifferently. "With the level of potential the Xu Family has, if they do not climb to the position of Heavenly Azure's master, they are destined to be suppressed.

Their best-case scenario would be being forced to leave Heavenly Azure Prefecture."

Pausing for a moment, he added, "You need not worry about this matter. The Xu Family has their own path to walk, and that kid is shrewd enough.

However, help them out whenever you can."

"Understood, Martial Uncle."

"Fierce Sun, I leave this place in your hands. I am going to the Xu Family to bid my farewells, and then I plan to return to the Heavenly Foundry Sect."

"Rest assured, Martial Uncle."

True Lord Fierce Sun cupped his fists in a salute, and then Yan Longzi transformed into a blazing rainbow of light, shooting straight toward Cloudstream Town.

Cloudstream Town, Xu Residence.

Xu Chuan and Xu Deling sensed that formidable aura rapidly approaching and quickly flew out to welcome him in the air.

After all, without anyone leading the way, Yan Longzi would also be blocked outside by the Xu Family's grand array.

"Congratulations, Senior Yan Longzi, on successfully exiting seclusion. Your great path of the Nascent Soul has advanced to another level!" Xu Chuan cupped his hands and smiled warmly, feeling the unfathomable spiritual pressure radiating from Yan Longzi, his tone sincere.

Xu Deling also bowed obediently. "Congratulations, Second Honored Master!"

Yan Longzi looked radiant as he laughed heartily, "Hahaha! No need for such formalities.

I was able to smoothly break through largely thanks to your Xu Family's Dragon Blood Fruit.

I came this time to bid farewell, and to ask you, Deling, if you wish to return to the Heavenly Foundry Sect with your master."

"The Xu Family currently requires all the hands it can get, so this disciple cannot simply leave. Once the dust settles on all of this, this disciple will return to the Heavenly Foundry Sect to seek forgiveness from my two masters." Xu Deling looked at Yan Longzi with a resolute gaze.

"Forget it, this master already anticipated this. Then continue your cultivation here. I imagine in at most a few decades to a century, your Xu Family should be completely secure."

"Thank you, Second Honored Master!" Xu Deling bowed with cupped hands.

Yan Longzi gave a slight nod. "This old man is off."

With that said, Yan Longzi didn't linger. His body blurred, transforming into an earth-shattering rainbow of light that streaked across the sky, heading straight toward Profound Moon Prefecture.

Returning to the main hall of the Xu Residence.

Xu Deling sat down and said, "Grandfather, building the city is the easy part, but the City Protection Great Formation needs to be at least a Tier 3 high-grade formation to ensure stability. The city walls will also require engraved restrictions to fortify them.

It's a pity Fifth Uncle isn't here."

"Mingxian has sacrificed too much for the Xu Family, and now his Core Formation is imminent. This time, as he peacefully cultivates in the Profound Moon Sect and comprehends the great Dao of formations, I believe that in just a few years, he will definitely achieve success!

By then, it will be even more beneficial for our Xu Family.

As for the City Protection Great Formation, Grandfather naturally has his own plans."

For the past few months, Xu Chuan had been cultivating under the Withered Glory Tree. The Withered Glory Tree had already fully matured, and in a few more years, it would begin to flower and bear fruit.

Once the withered glory fruits were formed, they could be refined into Withered Glory Pills to purify magic power and expand his sea of qi and dantian.

When that time came, both the quality and the vastness of his magic power would be enough to rival the Golden Core perfection stage.

Even without employing the Azure Dragon Sword Formation, he would be able to defeat Golden Core perfection True Lords relying purely on his divine abilities and secret arts.

The number of yin souls inside the Soul-Gathering Banner was increasing by the minute, while the Profound Yin Blood Corpse and the Skull were constantly digesting and growing.

During this War of the Two Prefectures, Xu Chuan had seized the opportunity to collect large amounts of remnant Foundation Establishment and Golden Core souls. Once all of them were refined into yin souls, the power of the Soul-Gathering Banner would skyrocket to the level of a top-tier magic treasure.

The Profound Yin Blood Corpse would also be able to cross into the peak of the third tier.

These Demonic Dao creations were highly prone to causing backlashes, so Xu Chuan never dared to slack off even for a single day when it came to cultivating his divine sense.

Not long ago, he had finally made a breakthrough, advancing his divine sense into the Golden Core perfection level.

Once he cultivated the 'Mystic Heaven Mind-Linking Art' to the perfection of its second layer, his divine sense would inevitably rise to the utmost limits of the Golden Core stage. At that point, he could use the Divine Sense Crystal to seamlessly push his divine sense into the Nascent Soul class.

To possess Nascent Soul-level divine sense at the early-stage Golden Core—such a monstrous genius would likely be an exceedingly rare sight even in ancient times.

A few days later.

Xu Chuan headed to the Heavenly Azure Mountain Range, spending quite a bit of effort before finally finding the Cang Clan Ancestral Land.

Due to the Xi Family, the Cang Family had kept as low a profile as possible for hundreds of years.

True Lord Green Wood of the Xi Family commanded a resounding reputation, yet very few knew that the Cang Family also housed an expert at the True Lord level in the Golden Core perfection stage.

What's more, he was the number one array master in the Heavenly Azure Prefecture.

This place was surrounded by bizarre peaks on all four sides, acting as a natural barrier. Mist curled and drifted through the valley, thick with lingering spiritual qi. The environment was incredibly tranquil.

A semi-transparent pale green light screen flickered in and out of sight, enveloping the entire valley within it. Concealing immense spiritual pressure, it was none other than a high-grade Tier 3 Clan protection grand array.

Through the light screen, neat rows of houses could be seen arranged like fish scales in the valley. Pavilions, towers, palaces, and courtyards were scattered in an orderly fashion. Though not overly ostentatious, it exuded an aura of profound foundational strength.

The moment Xu Chuan drew near, the grand array's light screen rippled slightly. A patrol squad of guards dressed in Cang Family uniforms immediately appeared, stepping forward to question him with wary expressions. "Who goes there? This is the Cang Clan Ancestral Land. Idlers are forbidden from approaching!"

"Cloudstream's Xu Chuan, here to specifically pay a visit to the Cang Family Head." Xu Chuan calmly stated his name.

Hearing this, the guards froze for a moment before shock filled their faces. They exchanged glances, eyes brimming with disbelief.

"Could it be... that True Lord Withered Glory?"

The tone of the lead guard immediately became several times more respectful.

After receiving a confirming nod from Xu Chuan, the guards were filled with even greater reverence, not daring to show the slightest neglect.

"True Lord, please wait a moment. This junior will immediately send word!" The guard captain swiftly took out a communication jade talisman and urgently whispered a few words into it.

A moment later, a portal opened in the grand array's light screen. An old man with a hale and hearty spirit, dressed in green robes, flew out into the air. His aura was deep and vast—he was strikingly a late-stage Golden Core elder.

Seeing Xu Chuan, a warm smile spread across his face as he cupped his hands from afar and said:

"I had no idea True Lord Withered Glory would grace us with his presence. Please forgive this old man for failing to welcome you properly! Please follow me inside."

Xu Chuan returned the greeting. "Daoist Friend Fengheng, we haven't seen each other for many years. I never expected you to have crossed into the late-stage Golden Core."

"A fluke, merely a fluke!" Cang Fengheng waved his hand with a chuckle and made an inviting gesture.

Upon entering the Cang Clan Ancestral Land, Xu Chuan glanced around. Sensing the thick spiritual qi, he surmised that there was likely more than one Tier 3 spirit vein here, perhaps even a high-grade Tier 3 one.

Moreover, with the Cang Family's foundations, they definitely had pills capable of aiding a breakthrough past the Golden Core bottleneck in their collection.

Even if the quantity wasn't large, assisting one or two individuals stuck at the Golden Core bottleneck would absolutely pose no issue.

Cang Family's main hall.

Neither of the two took the master's seat.

A disciple brought in tea and pastries before immediately exiting the hall.

"True Lord Withered Glory, my apologies. The Cang Family Head is currently in seclusion and unable to come out to entertain guests. I ask for your understanding."

Xu Chuan smiled faintly. "Daoist Friend Fengheng, given the relationship between our two families, there is no need to be so polite. My son, Mingxian, is your disciple after all."

At the mention of Xu Mingxian, Cang Fengheng's eyes flickered. After a brief hesitation, he asked, "There are rumors that Mingxian followed the Ancestor of Profound Moon to the Profound Moon Sect?

Is he planning to join the Profound Moon Sect?"

"It's for the best. Mingxian's talent in formations is incredibly high. Even now, he is no longer inferior to this old man, and perhaps he has even surpassed me."

Pausing for a moment, he continued, "True Lord Withered Glory, what brings you here this time?"

"My Xu Family wishes to build Cloudstream City, and we would like to trouble the Cang Family Head to set up a high-grade Tier 3 grand array in the future."

With the speed at which immortal cultivators built cities, the city walls would definitely be constructed within a year at most.

"This..."

Cang Fengheng had also heard about this matter, but he hadn't expected Xu Chuan to come knocking at their door so quickly.

Furthermore, not long ago, the Mo Clan Ancestor had personally visited regarding this very same issue, specifically warning the Cang Family about which side they chose to stand on.

"Is there some sort of difficulty?" Xu Chuan sighed softly. "It seems Senior Mo has already been here."

"How did you know?!" Cang Fengheng revealed a look of utter surprise.

"The only ones capable of putting pressure on the Cang Family are Nascent Soul stage cultivators. And since the Xi Family's Ancestor is severely wounded and absolutely cultivating in seclusion to heal, do I even need to ask who it was?

Besides, the ambitions the Mo Family harbors are shared by my Xu Family, as well as the Lei Family. I imagine your Cang Family also wishes to reclaim the glory and status you held a thousand years ago, correct?"

Cang Fengheng fell silent.

"However, if the Cang Family decides to stand with the Mo Family and insists on suppressing my Xu Family, then the friendship between our two clans ends here."

"Don't jump to conclusions, True Lord Withered Glory. Let's talk this out calmly," Cang Fengheng said with a look of anxiety, hurriedly trying to pacify him. "With the relationship regarding Mingxian, our two clans are natural allies.

However, my Cang Family cannot simply ignore the face of the Mo Clan Ancestor. Openly, my Cang Family cannot provide aid, but we can do so in secret.

This one has a good friend, a mid-stage Golden Core rogue cultivator who lives alone on Green Cliff Peak. He is also a Tier 3 array master. He owes me a favor. If you take this array disk and go find him, he will definitely help."

"Perfected Person Green Cliff?"

"That is correct."

"What is his realm in the Array Dao?"

"An early-stage Tier 3 array master."

Xu Chuan rubbed his chin and sighed softly. "So be it. Since the Cang Family is unable to assist openly, I will not force the issue. But make absolutely sure you do not stand as enemies against my Xu Family.

Setting up a formation is a small matter, but if we become enemies, my Xu Family will show no mercy!

While it might be difficult for me to break through a high-grade Tier 3 formation, when my son Mingxian returns after completing his studies, I doubt breaking through a Tier 3 formation will be difficult for him."

"Mingxian will come back?" Cang Fengheng's eyes lit up.

"Naturally. He merely went to the Profound Moon Sect to further his studies in the Dao of Formations."

When Xu Chuan said this, Cang Fengheng's demeanor became considerably more amiable, and he beamed with smiles. "Rest assured, True Lord Withered Glory. Mingxian was once my disciple.

No matter what, my Cang Family will not go so far as to become enemies with the Xu Family.

If the Xu Family has a way to contend against the Mo Clan Ancestor, my Cang Family would be more than happy to openly support the Xu Family.

But if you lack such means for now, with the Heavenly Azure Prefecture currently in chaos, we can only choose to remain neutral for the sake of my Cang Family's inheritance.

For this, please forgive us, True Lord."

"I understand. Then I shall take my leave." Xu Chuan accepted the scorched and somewhat damaged array disk, said his goodbyes, and departed.

Heavenly Azure Sect.

The main hall.

"Elder Yun, can the Sect-Protecting Grand Formation be repaired?"

Elder Yun Fengqi was one of the Heavenly Azure Sect's Tier 3 array masters. His boundary in formations was on par with Cang Fengheng's.

Yun Fengqi looked directly into True Lord Green Wood's eyes and sighed softly. "The Sect-Protecting Grand Formation is a Tier 4 grand array. This time, one of the array bases was unexpectedly destroyed. This old man's formation cultivation is only at the mid-stage of Tier 3; I am truly powerless to help.

I can only try to patch it up as much as possible, but even if the repairs are successful, the grand array will still drop in tier.

Moreover, that area will become a weak point in the Sect-Protecting Grand Formation. Its defensive capabilities will only reach the Tier 3 low-grade level."

"To what extent will the overall defense of the grand array drop?"

"Tier 3... high-grade." Pausing for a moment, Elder Yun hurriedly added, "If we invited the Cang Family Head over, the situation might be a bit better."

True Lord Green Wood frowned in deep thought, then said indifferently, "The Cang Family already refused us previously, using Cang Fengyan's seclusion as an excuse. Elder Yun, just try your best to patch it up.

A Tier 3 high-grade formation should barely be enough. As for future matters, we will naturally make plans once the Grand Elder's injuries are healed."

"Yes."

Yun Fengqi cupped his fists and left.

Not long after he departed, Xi Fengyue arrived and mentioned that quite a few sect disciples had received edicts from their families and had returned to their respective clans.

True Lord Green Wood became even more infuriated. "Every single one of them... Do they really think my Heavenly Azure Sect, my Xi Family, has lost its momentum?"

Xi Fengyue wore a worried expression. "Currently, the situation across the entire Heavenly Azure Prefecture is treacherous and unpredictable. The Mo Family, the Lei Family, and the Xu Family are all busy building cities and forging the foundations of their power.

The Seven Heavenly Azure Cities suffered plunder, and combined with the betrayal of several noble families, quite a few minor families are planning to migrate to the cities of those three major factions.

Among them, the Mo Family's Jade Bamboo City is drawing the most, followed by the Xu Family's Cloudstream City, and finally the Lei Family's White Cloud City.

Elder Green Wood, what should our Heavenly Azure Sect do right now?

We can't just stand by and watch them develop as they please, right?"

"Now that the Heavenly Azure Sect's power is waning, our only option is to reverse this decline. Send someone to make a trip to the Three Sects and inform them that the Three Sects are to be abolished.

From now on, the Three Sects will be merged into the Heavenly Azure Sect. Their disciples and elders will all enjoy the resources and treatment of the Heavenly Azure Sect.

Aside from that, since the seven cities have lost a large number of families, we will consolidate them into a single Heavenly Azure City under the direct control of my Heavenly Azure Sect. The position at the City Lord's Mansion will be held by a late-stage Golden Core elder from our Heavenly Azure Sect.

As for the candidate, we will pick a time to discuss it after the Three Sects have been fully integrated!"

Xi Fengyue's eyes lit up, and he immediately agreed before heading off to carry it out.