Chapter 844: Opening the Final Realm (Combined)

As Li Hao pondered, Su Zhenyuan wore a complex expression, his thoughts swirling in his mind several times before he finally spoke.

"Hao Tian, have you been mistreated during your time at the Su family? Has anyone bullied you?"

Li Hao snapped out of his thoughts and shook his head. "No."

Seeing no resentment in his expression, Su Zhenyuan exhaled slightly in relief—he had watched Li Hao's time at the Su family closely; after all, this was the man who came bearing that marriage contract, and under his own watch, a few questions were enough to learn everything.

"Muqing is utterly out of line—I'll call her out."

Su Zhenyuan glanced at the closed hall door and spoke immediately.

He intended to clarify the marriage matter with Su Muqing; even if his daughter resisted, he would explain the reasons—and if necessary, he would use paternal authority to force her compliance, though that was a step he dreaded taking.

Inside the hall, Su Muqing had entered but had not begun cultivation; instead, she used her spiritual sense to observe the situation outside.

Jiang Qiuyu and her father had arrived one after the other; the head of the Jiang family's gentle treatment of Li Hao—even teaching him the Jiang family's most secret body technique—left her stunned and emotionally conflicted.

It was clear how highly the Jiang family valued him, and their exchange made her feel again just how terrifying this boy's talent was, surpassing anyone she had ever faced, including Lin Zhexuan, the radiant, sunlike companion of her childhood.

Yet now, hearing her father suddenly turn the conversation to her, her expression changed instantly, her heart tightened, and she suddenly felt an urge to hide.

She did not wish to face Li Hao, nor her father, nor even Lin Zhexuan—right now, she only wanted to lock herself away and find stillness.

As her body tensed, Li Hao suddenly spoke:

"No need, Uncle."

"If she doesn't wish to see me, there's no point forcing it. If you have no other business, I'll retire for now."

With that, Li Hao sat back down on the carved chair.

Su Zhenyuan froze.

Inside the hall, Su Muqing was equally stunned; her taut body suddenly relaxed, her spiritual sense fixed on the boy—she felt for the first time that he was surprisingly considerate, truly mindful of her feelings.

But Su Zhenyuan's expression grew complex.

He knew Li Hao had wasted years here, accompanying his daughter for over a decade; to other Immortal Kings, ten years were but a blink, insignificant—but for Li Hao, a top-tier cultivator, it was worth more than a hundred or a thousand years. What a tragic waste!

"You…"

He studied Li Hao's calm expression and realized the boy had no intention of pressuring his daughter—even though Su Zhenyuan himself had openly sided with him, offering support.

Combined with Li Hao's earlier decisive act of stepping between Su Muqing and danger, this was genuine sincerity, not pretense.

He stood rooted in place, silent.

Li Hao said nothing more, instead pinching a go piece from the board and placing it gently.

Compared to Su Zhenyuan's forced actions, improving his cultivation base was far more important, far more meaningful.

This battle had also made him realize: without power, he could not even protect the reincarnation of Ying Xiaoxiao.

Then his decades of ascetic practice would truly become a joke.

The courtyard fell silent for a long while; Su Zhenyuan's emotions gradually settled. He took a deep breath, and his gaze toward Li Hao gained a touch of respect—the boy had not exploited him to pressure Su Muqing; such integrity was rare.

"Earlier, the Ancestor summoned you to the ancestral grounds—he had something to say. He likely intends to nurture you. When will you go?"

Su Zhenyuan asked.

Li Hao thought of Su Jiuzhe, the Su family's Ancestor; without his intervention, Su Muqing would have perished.

Even though the Ancestor was bound to protect his descendants, Li Hao still felt profound gratitude toward him.

He rose immediately. "I'll go now."

"Good."

Su Zhenyuan nodded and immediately led Li Hao off. Before leaving, he turned and gazed deeply at the hall door—he knew his daughter was watching all this from within, and he hoped she, too, would see through these details and understand the boy's true character.

Lin Zhexuan was undoubtedly an excellent son-in-law, but in that moment of crisis, he, like this powerless father, could only endure in silence, accepting Su Muqing's death as inevitable.

He could understand Lin Zhexuan's helplessness—but comparison was cruel. When measured against Li Hao's actions, even he felt ashamed, and he found Lin Zhexuan utterly inferior to Li Hao.

"Let's go."

Su Zhenyuan's power surged, enveloping Li Hao as they flew toward the ancestral grounds deep within the Su estate.

Watching her father and Li Hao depart, Su Muqing in the hall slowly withdrew her gaze, her mind filled with the image of Lin Zhexuan. She bit her lip slightly, then finally shook off all thoughts and returned to her cultivation chamber.

The Su family's ancestral grounds.

Located deep within the Su estate, the grounds were a small hill surrounded by a fence of peach blossoms.

On the hill, peach blossoms bloomed profusely, their fragrance heavy in the air; pink petals drifted onto the grass like a paradise beyond the world.

Su Zhenyuan arrived here; in the empty air around him stood only one guardian—a clan elder.

"Lord."

The elder, over eighty, hunched and white-haired, looked at Su Zhenyuan with tender affection.

Su Zhenyuan nodded slightly. "Fourth Uncle, this is Hao Tian. I've brought the boy to meet the Ancestor."

"Hmm."

The elder, called Fourth Uncle, turned his gaze to Li Hao. He had watched the great battle outside Gusu City—of course he knew this boy had turned the tide and saved the northern region's human race from utter ruin. His eyes softened as he smiled warmly:

"Hao Tian—what a fine name. What kind of parents could have raised such an outstanding child? On behalf of the border people of the northern region, I thank you!"

With that, he bowed slightly toward Li Hao.

Li Hao was startled and quickly reached to support the elder's arms—but Fourth Uncle was an Immortal King, his arms heavy as mountains; Li Hao could not lift them, and the elder completed his bow.

Seeing Fourth Uncle's solemn gesture, Su Zhenyuan's heart leapt—he, as head of the family, dared not accept such a bow from Fourth Uncle. He hurriedly said: "Fourth Uncle, the Ancestor wishes to meet Hao Tian because he intends to nurture him—it's merely our way of showing respect."

Fourth Uncle rose and patted Li Hao's arm, smiling at him, then turned to Su Zhenyuan with a scowl:

"This boy's talent? The Ancestor nurturing him is the Su family's fortune—how can you call it 'our gesture'? Outside, what great emperor wouldn't fight to nurture such a prodigy?"

Su Zhenyuan froze, speechless.

Indeed, with Li Hao's talent, other great emperors would vie for him.

Nine Flowers, Nine Sequences—he already qualified to become a direct disciple of an emperor. Not to mention the Dao Source Immortal Seal, which made him exceptional even among imperial disciples. Add his monstrous True God Blood, the hundred-year soul lifespan, and other factors—he was the most extraordinary genius Fourth Uncle had ever seen.

"You…"

Fourth Uncle shot Su Zhenyuan a disapproving look and said no more, then turned gently to Li Hao: "Go on—the Ancestor has been waiting for you a long time."

Li Hao nodded with a smile, thinking: So that initial "Lord" was just for Su Zhenyuan's face—this man clearly still treated him like a junior, showing no reverence befitting a family head.

Su Zhenyuan moved to enter with Li Hao, but Fourth Uncle raised a hand to stop him.

"What are you doing?" Fourth Uncle looked at Su Zhenyuan as if he were mad.

Su Zhenyuan blinked. "The Ancestor rarely awakens—I wish to pay my respects."

"If he wants to see you, he'll summon you himself," Fourth Uncle snapped.

Su Zhenyuan fell silent. He, the head of the family, had been barred?

But this was the ancestral grounds—he dared not intrude. He mumbled: "Then… I'll come again later."

Fourth Uncle ignored him, instead gesturing toward Li Hao. "Child, the Ancestor is at the summit."

"Understood."

Li Hao bowed to both men and entered the peach-covered hill.

The scent of peach blossoms washed over him. He followed the path to the summit and saw Su Jiuzhe, clad in a gray-white robe, seated on the green grass. Beside him stood a small wooden table with five or six dishes of pastries and two small flasks of wine.

Peach petals drifted down, two landing on his hair—he seemed unaware.

"You've come."

Su Jiuzhe tilted his head slightly, gazing at the boy climbing the slope.

Li Hao approached and bowed deeply. "Thank you, Ancestor, for saving me."

"I didn't save you," Su Jiuzhe said calmly, his eyes flickering with a faint, knowing smile.

Li Hao replied steadily: "Thank you, Ancestor, for saving Miss Su."

"That's not what you're thanking me for, is it?"

Su Jiuzhe's lips curled slightly. "You're thanking me for saving the other Primordial Spirit inside that child, aren't you?"

Li Hao froze, his whole body trembling slightly—he felt as if every secret had been stripped bare under those knowing, half-smiling eyes, as if standing naked in a snowstorm.

"Master… you know?" Li Hao asked involuntarily.

"Sit."

Su Jiuzhe gestured toward the wooden table.

Li Hao sat down, his heart racing. "Ancestor—can you help her awaken sooner?"

Su Jiuzhe raised his hand slightly; his gray-white sleeve slipped, revealing a long, powerful arm. He lifted a wine flask, took a sip, then grabbed a dish of spirit fruit kernels, tossing them into his mouth as he spoke:

"Know? I know far more than that… This matter is long and complex… Originally, it was a promise I made with her."

Li Hao's heart jolted. A promise? With her?

"Do you know Shi Miao?"

Li Hao responded instantly.

Only Ying Xiaoxiao's original self—the Time Sprite born from primordial time—could possibly know Su Jiuzhe.

Su Jiuzhe nodded slightly, gazing at the sea of peach blossoms. "That promise… she knelt before the Heavenly Sovereign for ten thousand years to obtain this guidance…"

He shook his head, then turned to Li Hao: "I cannot make her awaken sooner. This is her fate. When the right time and moment arrive, she will awaken naturally. All is fate. Without reaching the Emperor realm, one cannot transcend fate, nor control it—I will not interfere to alter fate for you."

Li Hao's heart trembled slightly.

Fate?

The Nine Sequences Dao did not include fate. Fate was supreme, transcending time and space, unspeakable, unnameable, weaving through past and future.

Li Hao had met many prodigies, yet none spoke of touching fate.

He himself understood fate only vaguely—he had not even touched it, let alone controlled it.

So even the greatest prodigies, even Immortal Kings, remained bound by fate? Only by reaching the Emperor realm could one transcend it?

Li Hao's eyes flickered slightly. What, then, was his own fate?

Su Jiuzhe lightly tapped his wine flask against another, saying, "Let's not speak of that anymore. Come on, can you drink?"

"I can."

Li Hao snapped out of his thoughts, replied, seized the wine flask, thanked him, and tilted his head back to drink deeply.

Seeing Li Hao's carefree demeanor, Su Jiuzhe couldn't help but laugh.

He was an Emperor; everyone else trembled before him—even Su Zhenyuan, head of the Su family, would never dare sit beside him, let alone drink a toast with him.

An Emperor is invincible, but invincibility is lonely.

Fortunately, life always holds something to dispel loneliness—like drinking.

Drinking with interesting people. Drinking with those who can truly drink their fill.

Perhaps this is one of the few pleasures left after achieving immortality.

"How can you drink without snacks? These pastries I had made—try them."

Su Jiuzhe pointed to the several small dishes of pastries on the table.

But Li Hao was stunned—the moment the wine touched his lips, he felt as if he'd swallowed celestial nectar, no, even celestial nectar paled beside this wine.

Within it pulsed a mighty, vast, and profound force, seeping into every bone, making him feel as if his entire immortal body and Primordial Spirit were wrapped and nourished by it.

His consciousness grew sharper, his Primordial Spirit seemingly strengthened, his perception of heaven and earth more intimate, more refined—as if he had entered the ultimate state of transcendent immortality, fused with heaven and earth.

Yet Li Hao sat still, did not transcend—he set down the flask, stared at it blankly for a moment, then turned and asked:

"Elder, what is this wine?"

Su Jiuzhe said, "Don't you recognize wine?"

Li Hao certainly recognized wine—he not only recognized it, he loved it—but this was no ordinary wine.

What wine leaves you more sober after drinking?

Seeing Li Hao's stunned expression, Su Jiuzhe stopped teasing him and smiled faintly: "It merely contains a bit of Heavenly Dao primordial fluid. It offers little benefit to you now, but when you break through to the King realm, it will help expand and stabilize your domain, surpassing ordinary Immortal Kings."

Li Hao froze. Heavenly Dao primordial fluid?

Just from the name, he knew it was something extraordinary.

What in this world would dare bear the name "Heavenly Dao"?

Clearly, this was a gift from this Primogenitor.

Li Hao gripped the flask tightly, took a deep breath, and without another word, tilted his head back and drank again.

Su Jiuzhe had expected Li Hao to leap up, bow deeply, and pour out heartfelt thanks—if so, it would have been vulgar. But seeing the boy keep drinking without pause, he was startled, then amused, and grew even more fond of him. No wonder she had knelt for ten thousand years to pursue this future husband—already so intriguing in youth, what wonders might he become?

He smiled and said, "Don't just drink—eat the pastries."

"Mm."

Li Hao nodded, grabbed a pastry, and ate it, utterly unaware that an Emperor sat beside him.

But the pastries did not impress him—they were ordinary Immortal cakes, even slightly inferior in flavor.

He frowned, swallowed them hastily, and returned to drinking.

"Not to your taste?"

"They're a bit lacking," Li Hao replied honestly.

Su Jiuzhe chuckled in disbelief. "I had the best chef in the Su family make these."

Whatever he instructed was always carried out by the finest.

"But that's only the Su family—not the entire True Realm," Li Hao said, his face showing rare seriousness, like a swordsman criticizing a flaw in swordplay.

Su Jiuzhe blinked, then asked curiously, "Have you eaten better? Where?"

"Naturally," Li Hao lifted his chin slightly, his eyes gleaming with pride greater than defeating an enemy with his sword, "I made them myself. If you're not too proud to try, I'll cook for you next time—you'll see I'm not boasting."

Su Jiuzhe stared at him in surprise, then smiled. "Fine. Next time I'll taste yours—if it's worse than this, I'll punish you."

"Go ahead."

Li Hao's gaze was haughty, as if only now did he fully embody the arrogance of a peerless prodigy.

Su Jiuzhe burst into laughter, slapping his hands on the ground, shoulders shaking, his gray-white, tattered robe making him look like a destitute scholar.

When his laughter faded, he let out a soft, contented chuckle—he hadn't felt this free in ages.

Though his awakening had cost him precious Emperor essence, at least now he had something to delight him.

His smile slowly faded. "You fought for the Northern Realm's humans this time—the demons have remembered you. Knowing their nature, they'll likely send a Semi-Emperor to ambush you beyond the Emperor Star, waiting a thousand years, ten thousand years, if they must."

"A Semi-Emperor?" Li Hao's eyes flickered.

Was that really necessary for an Immortal Lord like him?

But quickly, he realized it was entirely plausible.

Since childhood, at age eight, he'd faced assassination attempts from Zhou Tian cultivators—what hope had a child had then?

The dangers and enemies he faced never merely outmatched him by one or two realms, letting him slowly reverse the tide—he always faced overwhelming odds, crushing all hope.

That he'd survived this long was itself a miracle.

"Even the demon Emperor himself might lie in wait—not his true body, but a reflection—but even that would surpass a Semi-Emperor."

Su Jiuzhe added.

Li Hao fell silent. To him, there was no difference.

Both were meteor strikes on mosquitoes—reduced to ash.

"So, what will you do next? Cultivate in the Su family, or...?"

Su Jiuzhe turned to Li Hao.

Li Hao said, "I'll wait for her to awaken."

Su Jiuzhe anticipated this answer, nodded, and smiled faintly: "Just waiting? Su Zhenyuan said he betrothed her to you—what about the wedding night?"

Li Hao: "…"

Why did this Su family Primogenitor seem so unorthodox?

"I'll wait until she awakens," Li Hao lowered his head. "Without her consent, it would be disrespectful."

Without Ying Xiao's approval, it would be sacrilege.

Su Jiuzhe nodded—he understood perfectly who Li Hao meant by "her."

"This place isn't meant for long stays. When she awakens, go to the Original True Realm—break through to King realm as soon as possible."

Su Jiuzhe said, his gaze calm.

Li Hao froze, his expression shifting slightly. "Elder, you mean...?"

"Their probe this time aimed not only to kill prodigies, but to force us to reveal ourselves."

Su Jiuzhe spoke softly: "That sword strike failed to kill the two Semi-Emperors—not only because they possessed fragments of Emperor relics, but because my power hasn't fully returned. The demon Emperor didn't act because he's suspicious—he suspects I'm luring him. Had I unleashed my full strength to kill those two Semi-Emperors, he'd have suspected I was hollow inside..."

"But he'll eventually press harder along the border to test us further."

Li Hao listened intently, understanding now—this was a game of deception, exploiting the demon Emperor's paranoia.

Truth and falsehood, falsehood and truth.

"Do you know why there are peach blossoms here?"

Su Jiuzhe looked up at the hillside, raised his hand, and caught a few falling petals.

Li Hao shook his head. "Did someone you knew love them?"

Su Jiuzhe shook his head slightly. "Only because peach blossoms mask the stench of corpses."

"Corpses?" Li Hao's pupils contracted.

Su Jiuzhe's long, pale hand, once luminous as carved jade, suddenly lost its luster—withering, turning gray-white and wrinkled, as if drained of all moisture, veins and bones protruding beneath shriveled skin, like a decayed mummy radiating the aura of an ancient tomb.

Li Hao's face changed.

"During the ancient Demon War, I was deeply poisoned by the Ancient Demon Emperor's Lunhuidu, and slept in the temporal ancient coffin beneath this ground to slow the poison."

Su Jiuzhe murmured. The withering on his arm reversed—luster returned, skin glowing translucent again.

Li Hao had heard of the Ancient Demon War many times. He asked: "The Northern Realm was also attacked by Ancient Demons—so why do humans and demons still fight? If they fight each other, won't the Ancient Demons...?"

After all, the Ancient Demons viewed all races of the True Realm as prey—demons were no different from humans to them.

Su Jiuzhe's eyes glinted coldly. "That's precisely why. In that great war, we fought to the death—but still lost. The Ancient Demons' Emperor relics had been refined through Lunhui, stronger than our own. We had no choice but to sacrifice ourselves... while the demons chose to betray us and join the Ancient Demons."

His gaze grew heavy. "As the Northern Realm neared collapse, the Emperors of the Original True Realm joined forces to draw away the main force of the Ancient Demons, leaving only demons and a few Ancient Demons here to annihilate us. Those Ancient Demons who went to the Original True Realm never returned. Later, as the war neared its end, the Ancient Demons seemed to fracture internally—many problems arose. And so the Northern Realm became our war against the demons."

Li Hao understood now—the demons had allied with the Ancient Demons to survive, and still stood with them against humanity.

He clenched his fists. In the Southern Realm, demons and other races still fought alongside humans against demons—but here in the Northern Realm, the demons had become full-fledged servants of the Ancient Demons.

Su Jiuzhe lowered his gaze and whispered: "But the two Semi-Emperors wounded by Chun Zhan are already ruined. The wounds from Chun Zhan cannot heal—not even Emperor relics can mend them. Even if they reincarnate, the wounds will follow them into their next life, forever."

Li Hao froze, his heart chilling—was Chun Zhan's Emperor Sword truly that terrifying?

"Good! Good that they're ruined!" He clapped his hands in delight.

Then, remembering Su Jiuzhe's earlier words, his face darkened with worry. "If the demons keep probing... what of the Northern Realm?"

"No concern of yours now."

Su Jiuzhe shook his head. "Wait here for her to awaken, then go to the Original True Realm. You came bearing the marriage contract he gave you—you must have his mark. Go to him, and I'll rest easy. During this time, ask Su Zhenyuan for any cultivation resources you need—I'll tell him. Even the Su family's ancestral treasure, the 'Century Lotus,' can be yours."

Li Hao didn't ask what the Century Lotus was—anything called the Su family's ancestral treasure was unquestionably among the pinnacle of the True Realm.

"Thank you for your kindness, Elder. I only need to stay by her side."

Li Hao said.

Su Jiuzhe shook his head. "Don't be modest. Extraordinary things belong to extraordinary people. With your talent, your chance to reach Emperor realm is high—can you forge your own Emperor Path? You haven't yet touched the path I opened. Many Emperor Paths have already been carved—few remain, and they're harder still. I wonder if you can comprehend one."

Li Hao had heard: to become an Emperor, one must forge one's own Emperor Path.

Like the Five Supreme Immortal Emperor, who fused five primordial sources to create the Five Supreme Emperor Sword—a supreme sword art.

"What is your Emperor Path?"

Li Hao asked curiously.

This question was somewhat offensive, equivalent to inquiring about someone's core ability.

Su Jiuzhe paid no mind; when one becomes Emperor, the Emperor Path reflects upon the True World, known to all—it was never a secret.

"My Emperor Path is… the Four Pillars' Final Realm!"

He spoke softly, a glimmer flashing in his eyes.

Li Hao froze. The Four Pillars' Final Realm?

He suddenly realized, cold sweat breaking out all over his body—the Four Pillars Realm divides into Dao Heart, Defying Fate, Ultimate Techniques, and Peace!

And the Peace Realm governs the Realm of Peace.

The ultimate limit of the Realm of Peace is the Eternal Dao Domain!

Beyond the Eternal Dao Domain… the Final Realm?

Was it opened by Su Jiuzhe himself?!

Li Hao had long heard that some Emperors' Emperor Paths benefited countless cultivators, forming one of the cultivation systems of the current True World.

Some opened Ultimate Limits, some opened Final Realms, others forged supreme Emperor Techniques, like the Five Absolute Emperor Sword, which could unleash earth-shattering power using only five primordial forces.

"The Final Realm of the Eternal Dao Domain… was created by you, Elder?"

Li Hao could hardly believe it; his shock was beyond words. A Final Realm! This Emperor had opened a Final Realm!

And not just any Final Realm—but the Final Realm of the Four Pillars!

Seeing Li Hao's stunned expression, Su Jiuzhe smiled and said softly, "This Final Realm—come find me when you break through and become a King. I'll see if your insight can guide you past the threshold."

Li Hao's heart trembled; a profound gratitude pierced his soul. He took a deep breath—thanking him was insufficient to express such a debt.

"This must be a secret passed down only within the lineage, Elder—I…"

"What secret?"

Su Jiuzhe shook his head, cutting him off. "True secrets are so high they're beyond mortal comprehension. People waste lifetimes chasing them, achieving nothing. Not knowing is better—focus elsewhere, and you might still accomplish something. Directly pursuing the highest Dao? You'll end up accomplishing nothing."

He said, "If you can comprehend it, that's your own ability. The True World is no longer the era of ten thousand years ago, when every sect guarded their arts fiercely—if leaked, they'd chase you a thousand miles to reclaim them. But now… ha! As long as it produces strong cultivators who can slay the Ancient Demons, it's truly useful."

Li Hao stared at him, realizing then that not all Emperors were the Supreme Lords of the Southern Region.

No wonder humanity still survived—beyond his unseen master, Tianyang Immortal Emperor, there were Emperors like Daoyuan Immortal Emperor, and now Su Jiuzhe!

Through the ebb and flow of time, it was these Emperors who bore humanity's hope, resisting against all odds!

"Elder…"

Li Hao clenched his fists slightly; for the first time, he felt that perhaps one day, he too must shoulder responsibility.

If one day he could reach their level…

"I name this Four Pillars Final Realm… 'The Myriad Worlds.'"

Su Jiuzhe said calmly, "Before you become a King, you cannot comprehend it. The fact that you've already condensed True Divine Blood is already astonishing—it should be attainable only at the Immortal King realm."

Li Hao steadied his emotions and asked, "Elder, is the Four Pillars Final Realm harder than the True Divine Final Realm?"

"Not necessarily."

Su Jiuzhe shook his head. "The later a Final Realm, the stronger or harder it isn't. Among Final Realms, the Celestial Star Veins depend on insight—if your insight is high enough, even a True Immortal can grasp it. The Divine Blood Final Realm depends on resources—consume a peerless divine herb, and you can forge it."

"My Final Realm requires a Domain to be controlled. As for the True Divine Realm, many peak Immortal Kings cannot even condense it. The Primordial Spirit is the hardest to cultivate—that's why the Ancient Demons are so powerful."

He added, "Among all Final Realms, if you must name the strongest, they'd be the Heavenly Person Realm and the Sage Realm."

"The Heavenly Person Realm and the Sage Realm?"

Li Hao froze, instantly recalling—the ultimate limit of the Heavenly Person Realm is Transcending to Immortal, and its Final Realm is Heavenly Sovereign!

As for the Sage Realm… its ultimate limit is the Primordial Dao Infant, and its Final Realm—he had never even glimpsed it.

"Do the True Immortal Realm and Immortal Lord Realm have ultimate Final Realms?"

Li Hao asked curiously.

Su Jiuzhe nodded slightly. "You could say yes, or no. To put it plainly, the True Immortal Final Realm is the Dao Source Immortal Seal. The Immortal Lord Realm… is the Chaotic Infinite Law."

He glanced at Li Hao. "You haven't yet condensed Chaotic Law—you're far from the Immortal Lord Realm. That's why I sent you to the Original True World. Here, you're a rare genius, but there, you'll truly encounter the True World's highest Dao, and only there can you advance and lay the foundation for becoming an Emperor!"

"If you linger here, you'll merely fade into obscurity."

Li Hao froze. Even Su Jiuzhe, an Emperor, said this—clearly the Original True World was invaluable.

No wonder the Southern Region War saw powerful factions competing fiercely for those few spots.

Even Imperial Clans sent emissaries. Even the top ten clans of the True World—the Ghost Clan, the Ancient God Clan, the War Heaven Clan.

"Is the Original True World really that good?"

"Naturally. There, you can glimpse the scene of Chaos' primordial opening."

Su Jiuzhe nodded. "If you wish to comprehend Chaotic Law, going there will double your progress. Here—even with your prodigious talent—you might waste ten thousand years, or longer."

Li Hao nodded slightly. The Emperor's assessment was flawless. Though his Panel could add points to perfect realms, Ultimate Limits and Final Realms required his own insight and breakthrough.

"Elder, if these Final Realms and Ultimate Limits were opened by various Emperors, how did cultivators practice and become Emperors before any Emperor existed?"

Li Hao asked curiously.

"That was the Chaos Era. Back then, becoming an Emperor followed a different method—but it's obsolete now."

Su Jiuzhe shook his head slightly. "You'll understand when you reach Immortal King's peak. Knowing now would only burden you."

Li Hao was curious, but seeing he wouldn't speak further, he dropped the matter.

Regardless, in this brief moment, he had gained immensely.

This must be the benefit of being guided by an Emperor.

Li Hao suddenly felt a pang of envy for the Immortal Emperor's direct disciples—they likely already knew all this.

"Thank you, Elder, for your explanations."

Li Hao bowed respectfully.

Su Jiuzhe waved his hand casually. "Finish your wine and go. If you need anything, find Su Zhenyuan. Don't linger here—you might catch my corpse qi."

Li Hao opened his mouth to speak, then closed it, said nothing, simply finished his wine, and rose.

"These snacks are tasteless. If I get the chance, I'll make some for you, Elder."

"Alright."

Su Jiuzhe replied offhandedly, not taking it seriously.

Li Hao took his leave, walking down the slope as peach blossoms drifted down—behind him, only the solitary figure sipping wine remained.

…

At the mountain's foot, Su Zhenyuan waited.

As Li Hao returned, he darted to his side at once. "Hao Tian, did the Ancestor guide you? What did he say?"

"Hmph!"

Uncle Four snorted, stepping in front of Li Hao. "You're asking about this? Aren't you ashamed?"

Su Zhenyuan froze, scratching his head—rarely had the head of the family looked so flustered.

"Ignore him."

Uncle Four pulled Li Hao aside, whispering, "Child, what did the Ancestor tell you?"

Li Hao: "…."

"You two, come here."

At that moment, Su Jiuzhe's voice came from Peach Mountain.

Uncle Four and Su Zhenyuan stared, exchanged glances, and stopped pressing Li Hao.

Su Zhenyuan said to Li Hao, "You know the way back, right? Why don't you return first?"

Li Hao nodded.

Then Su Zhenyuan and Uncle Four hurried up the mountain, while Li Hao set off toward the Exiled Immortal Courtyard.

But when Li Hao returned, the courtyard was filled with guests—buzzing with activity.

Li Hao saw Wu Ma respectfully attending to them. Looking closer, he recognized them instantly—they were the twenty former war captives.

Yet now they wore fresh clothes, their cultivation and injuries seemingly healed, their spirits revived—utterly different from their former filthy, broken state. He barely recognized them.

"He's back!"

"Hao Tian! It's Hao Tian!"

The crowd instantly sensed Li Hao's aura and turned, all delighted.

Li Hao landed in the courtyard, but instinctively glanced toward the hall door—still tightly shut—and his eyes flickered with guilt.

"Young Master, you've finally returned! They're all here to see you."

Wu Ma hurried over, her tone now deeply reverent.

Though a servant, she deeply admired Li Hao—his deeds had meant everything to the Northern Region's humanity.

"Hmm."

Li Hao nodded, then whispered, "Please tell her I've disturbed her. Tell her not to mind."

Wu Ma froze, instantly knowing who he meant.

Disturbed? She looked at the courtyard—now crowded, noisy, filled with chatter. For the Lady, who cherished silence, this was indeed an intrusion.

She marveled at Li Hao's thoughtfulness and immediately agreed.

At once, the others surged forward.

"Hao Tian, I'm Lin Yeqiu. Your life-saving grace is beyond words. From now on, if you give the slightest order, I swear to die for you!"

Lin Yeqiu spoke first, voice trembling with emotion.

It was Li Hao who let him return home—to reunite with his family, sit with his father, and restore their bond.

"Hao Tian, I am Su Wen Yue, Su Muqing's elder sister. I will forever remember this favor."

A graceful, elegant woman among the crowd spoke softly to Li Hao, as if her nature were exceptionally gentle.

"Hao Tian, my life is yours—command me anytime!"

"Hao Tian, my Zhao family..."

"Hao Tian..."

The twenty men all thanked him sincerely, then each produced the treasures they had brought.

Li Hao had no need for these treasures, so he accepted them without taking them; most were divine herbs, useless to him unless cooked, but he was already overwhelmed by the ancient demons' corpses—he had no time to eat these divine herbs, better to let them make full use of them.

The northern region's dire situation needs these celestial treasures, divine herbs, and immortal weapons more than ever.

"Gentlemen, I accept your goodwill—it is only right for us as humans."

Li Hao politely exchanged pleasantries, gently indicating he needed rest and cultivation, and so they did not linger, leaving their treasures behind before departing.

The courtyard was piled high with treasures; Li Hao, seeing this, sighed helplessly and had Wu Ma record them all, then arranged for the Su family to send each item back individually.

Inside the hall, Su Muqing had been watching the outside situation closely; Wu Ma crept in and relayed Li Hao's words to her, leaving Su Muqing stunned. In the past, she would have found it irritating, but these prisoners were heroes from the frontier, hard-won back from the demons—how could she resent their chatter?

She had never expected Li Hao to be so thoughtful, to apologize to her over such a matter.

That boy, who had never bowed to her even during the Sword Pool's triumph, now apologized to her over something so trivial.

A strange feeling stirred within her.

She immediately thought of her father's arrangements, her gaze growing more complex.

Time passed quietly.

Since the battle outside Gusu City ended, the Su family had grown lively.

Many came to visit, seeking an audience with Li Hao; numerous families, great and small, had traveled thousands of miles solely to meet Li Hao, thank him, and present him with countless treasures.

The Su family's threshold was nearly worn away; even as a top-tier clan, they could not drive away these well-meaning visitors.

The fervent visits of these guests spread throughout the Su family; during this time, whenever Su family disciples stepped outside, they were asked whether they had seen Hao Tian, what he did daily, and whether they could arrange an introduction.

Such admiration brought immense pride to the Su family's disciples and even servants sent out for errands.

This honor had never been theirs, even when Su Muqing and Lin Zhexuan were at the height of their fame.

To avoid disturbing Su Muqing, Li Hao declined all visits.

Jiang Huanhuan and Lin Jinrou had begged Su Wanqing for a long time before she helped them reach the Zhexian Courtyard and meet Li Hao.

Upon seeing Li Hao, the two immediately clustered around him, chattering nonstop.

This scene naturally fell into the eyes of someone within the hall.

Seeing these two daughters of great clans chattering like little maidservants beside Li Hao, Su Muqing's expression darkened.

When had he become so radiant?

Such a demeanor had never been seen even in Lin Zhexuan of old.

After all, Lin Zhexuan kept his distance from everyone except her, radiating an air of aloofness.

But this fellow smiled warmly, approachable, seemingly on good terms with everyone.

She frowned, a faint ache and irritation stirring in her heart.

He had treated her this way—why could he still be so close to others?

In her cultivation chamber, she stamped her foot slightly, feeling restless.

"Your soul lifespan is so short, calling you Hao Tian Brother doesn't suit you—may I call you Hao Tian Younger Brother?"

Jiang Huanhuan bent forward, her demeanor that of a lively young girl.

Li Hao was helpless; though his soul lifespan was indeed young, his mindset felt far older than theirs, so he said:

"To immortals and gods, a few hundred years of soul lifespan is negligible—just call me Hao Tian."

Jiang Huanhuan thought that made sense, then asked curiously: "I heard you're going to marry Su Muqing—have you set a wedding date? When?"

At these words, Su Wanqing, Lin Jinrou, and even Su Wanxue all turned their gazes toward him.

Su Wanxue had once held deep resentment toward Li Hao, but after this battle, her view had completely changed; she even felt a pang of envy for Su Muqing—why did such a prodigy love her so? She already had Lin Zhexuan, yet now she had also attracted Li Hao, a peerless genius—her own heart as an elder sister stirred with a touch of jealousy.

Yet it was not malicious envy—only pure admiration.

Inside the hall, Su Muqing's eyes flickered; she suddenly paused her other actions and fixed her gaze on the boy.

"Not yet."

Li Hao shook his head slightly, his smile as warm as spring breeze under the winter sun, saying:

"She hasn't agreed yet. At least, I'll wait until she does."

He added seriously: "I must respect her own wishes."

Hearing Li Hao's words, Jiang Huanhuan gasped: "So you really are going to marry?"

Lin Jinrou's eyes flickered faintly, tinged with disappointment and regret, and a question arose in her heart: Could even her own brother not compete with Li Hao?

Though Li Hao's talent was indeed superior to her brother's, her brother and Su Muqing had been childhood companions for hundreds of years, and there had even been a verbal betrothal...

A sudden feeling of frustration toward Lin Zhexuan rose within her.

Beside her, Su Wanqing's gaze dimmed for an instant, then quickly returned to normal, unnoticed.

Su Wanxue glanced at the closed hall door; the shadow inside flinched, instinctively withdrawing her spiritual sense.

Su Wanxue had heard from her father about Li Hao and Su Muqing's engagement, but she had never expected that despite her father's backing, Li Hao would still respect Su Muqing's opinion—clearly, he truly cherished his younger sister, holding her gently in his heart and hands...

Her eyes filled with admiration and wonder.

Inside the hall, Su Muqing's gaze flickered uncertainly, her mind in disarray.

Her father had once said the wedding would be held after the battle, yet no action followed; she had assumed that, sensing her mood, he had abandoned the idea—but now she realized it was for another reason.

Was it because... she hadn't agreed yet?

She bit her lip lightly.

In the blink of an eye, a year passed.

Events outside Gusu City gradually calmed; though visitors to the Su family still came in constant streams, some had departed from the other side of the Emperor Star a year ago and only now arrived.

Yet compared to the frenzied peak of the first half-year, things were now considerably quieter.

The Su family's disciples and servants had gradually grown accustomed to being asked about Li Hao.

During this time, Li Hao, besides carving, cooked ancient demon corpses daily; the mottled Primordial Spirit golden bones slowly recovered, but after a year, they were not yet fully restored.

After all, there were over a thousand Primordial Spirit golden bones; Li Hao estimated it would take at least three to five years.

Fortunately, for immortals and gods, this was an extremely brief span.

He had already finished eating the ancient demon corpses in his own space and asked Su Zhenyuan for another batch—enough for ten years, including corpses of ancient demon Immortal Kings; though Li Hao's current Fire Dao origin realm made cooking them difficult, he merely stored them for now.

Su Zhenyuan found Li Hao's strange request curious: asking for divine herbs and immortal weapons was understandable, but why demand useless ancient demon corpses?

Fortunately, the Su family, guarding the frontier, fought not only demons but also ancient demons; a single message to the front lines could bring back many corpses.

Li Hao merely claimed he enjoyed painting and carving, using them as inspiration, and brushed off the inquiry.

Su Zhenyuan didn't press further; he had heard Li Hao could paint and carve, and even that his painting was exceptional—this left him with nothing but a wry smile and sigh.

He had spoken to Li Hao about the marriage; if Li Hao agreed, they could choose any date immediately.

Li Hao said there was no rush—he would wait for her response.

Seeing Li Hao so respectful of Su Muqing's wishes, Su Zhenyuan felt profound respect, increasingly certain he had not misjudged the boy.

Li Hao took time to make some pastries and delivered them to Peach Mountain, the ancestral grounds.

When his fourth uncle learned they were meant for the Ancestor, he was surprised; before he could seek permission, the mountain echoed with Su Jiuzhe's voice, summoning Li Hao to ascend.

Li Hao presented the pastries to Su Jiuzhe, who took out fine wine and drank with him, casually exchanging tales of the True Realm's secrets and anecdotes, including stories of Su Zhenyuan as a child being bullied by outsiders, returning home in tears to beg his elder brother for revenge.

Li Hao learned that though this Ancestor slept, he was not entirely unaware of the outside world—he watched the Su family's disciples with keen attention.

"These pastries are truly excellent."

After tasting Li Hao's pastries, Su Jiuzhe was greatly impressed, praising him sincerely.

Li Hao smiled: "Your wine is also excellent."

Though this wine no longer contained the Original Dao Elixir, it still had miraculous effects on cultivation; in the past year, Li Hao had drunk it three or four times, and his cultivation had risen to Immortal Lord Realm, Third Layer.

His spiritual power was now condensed like water, infused with Primordial Spirit energy—far surpassing peers of the same realm, yet the difficulty of cultivation had increased dozens of times, demanding far more spiritual power.

That this wine could produce such effects spoke of its terrifying power.

Even the finest divine pills could not match it.

"You know so many things. Your carving has reached the Dao—do you use these arts to cultivate? It's a unique path."

Su Jiuzhe said.

Li Hao realized his carving in Su Muqing's courtyard had not escaped this Ancestor's notice; his mind stirred, and he said: "If you're interested, I'd like to carve something for you, Elder."

"No problem."

Su Jiuzhe replied generously.

Seeing his agreement, Li Hao was overjoyed; carving a Great Emperor as his subject would surely elevate his carving art to extraordinary heights.

Though his carving experience was already maxed out, carving a Great Emperor—what an opportunity!

Li Hao immediately retrieved divine wood.

But Su Jiuzhe, seeing the divine wood Li Hao pulled out, shook his head: "This Golden Tree Divine Wood is too humble for me."

He raised his hand, reaching into a fissure; after a moment, a vibration echoed from within, then he withdrew his hand, holding a seven-colored, misty piece of wood.

"Use this Time Divine Wood. Carve it well—I want it to stand eternal."

He spoke, a reckless smile curling his lips.

Though his body was rotting like a corpse, he insisted on standing forever!

Li Hao froze, sensing the thick temporal aura emanating from the divine wood—it seemed to hover before his eyes, yet drifted through time and space, not of this moment, elusive as water in a river, impossible to grasp.

He was startled; this was a top-tier divine wood.

He tried to reach out and take it, but found the divine wood incredibly slippery, as if it would slip through his fingers at any moment.

It could vanish at any instant, slipping into another timeline.

Li Hao urgently clenched his fist, channeling the peak of fifth-layer temporal primordial power to firmly hold it.

Merely gripping this piece of divine wood required at least fourth-layer temporal primordial power.

Light flared in Li Hao's eyes; he had a feeling this carving would bring him immense gains!

"Thank you, Elder!"

Li Hao expressed his fervent gratitude, then adopted a solemn expression, unfolded his Dao domain, and began focusing intently on the carving.

Using immortal energy as his finger and time as his blade, he carved into the divine wood, using spatial fissures as chisels to gouge deep grooves and outline its original form.

Seeing Li Hao's technique, Su Jiuzhe's eyes flickered with surprise, a smile in them, yet he said nothing, simply sitting quietly and drinking.

Time flowed atop the mountain peak, years seeming still and silent.

Li Hao carved each stroke and edge with extreme slowness, his blade forged from the rhythm of the Time Dao.

Lost in the carving, he lost all sense of time's passage—his eyes held only Su Jiuzhe before him and the temporal divine wood in his hands.

Peach blossoms fell; spring passed, autumn came.

Yet the petals remained forever, peach blossoms never withered.

They drifted down from the tree, only to quickly regrow anew; the immortal tree, nourished, showed no sign of decay even in winter.

In this unchanging scene, the passage of years went unnoticed—before he knew it, one year, two years… three years.