Xu Chuan cupped his fists and smiled. "Congratulations on successfully forming your Golden Core, Senior Chen!"
"I was just wondering who possessed such profound foundation and luck to form their core within the secret realm. With your foundation, Senior Chen, it is truly well-deserved."
"Brother Xu, there is no need for us to be so formal. We can address each other as Daoist friends or brothers," Chen Changge replied.
He continued, "If not for your Xu Family's Azure Splendor Pill helping me break through my lifespan limit and avoid certain death, how could I have achieved what I have today?
I will always engrave this kindness in my heart."
"You are too polite, Brother Chen. It was merely a transaction before, and our Xu Family also obtained Spirit-Nourishing Pills and their pill recipe in return."
"That is different," Chen Changge waved his hand. "In short, I owe you a favor. If anything happens in the future, you can come to my Chen Family or the Green Wood Sect to seek my help."
Seeing his insistence, Xu Chuan found it hard to refuse.
"By the way, if Brother Xu gained anything, such as rare pill recipes, you can hand them over to the Heavenly Azure Sect. If not for my Chen Family's contribution of the Spirit-Nourishing Pill recipe back then...
Given the status of the Heavenly Azure Sect, they would not covet minor opportunities. Even if you obtained a High-Grade Innate Spirit Item, they would not take it by force.
Unless it involves the core of the secret realm, the inheritance of the ancient Azure Dragon Sect.
However, for thousands of years, this inheritance has never appeared. The requirements must be extremely harsh.
But if anyone truly grasps this inheritance opportunity, they will definitely be able to establish a top-tier power in the Southern Heaven Region in the future."
Xu Chuan could tell that Chen Changge was intentionally giving him a reminder. With the Xu Family's current strength, gaining the protection of the Heavenly Azure Sect would absolutely be a good thing.
"I understand. Thank you for the reminder, Brother Chen."
Before taking his leave, Xu Chuan thought of something and added, "Right, I suddenly recalled someone. There is a new disciple who just joined the Green Wood Sect, and he is rather strange."
"A new disciple? What is strange about him?"
"When he participated in the trial, he was at Peak Qi Condensation. In less than half a year, he stepped into Foundation Establishment. Then he entered the Heavenly Azure Secret Realm, and after going inside, he completely disappeared."
Xu Chuan continued, "The Heavenly Azure Secret Realm belongs to the ancient Azure Dragon Sect. It might be suppressing some bizarre entities."
Seeing Chen Changge deep in thought, Xu Chuan smiled again. "Of course, these are merely my personal suspicions. Please do not mind them, Brother Chen."
"I understand. After we get out, I will test him a bit. If there really is a problem, he shouldn't be able to escape within the Heavenly Azure Sect."
Afterward, Xu Chuan bid farewell and left.
He found a secluded spot to transfer the inheritance items, leaving behind only some ordinary goods and three pill recipes.
Chen Changge was right. Given the Xu Family's current situation, having an extra protective umbrella was for the best.
Even if that umbrella didn't truly care about the Xu Family.
Meanwhile.
Within a certain black mountain in the northern part of the Heavenly Azure Secret Realm.
Not a single blade of grass grew here, and there were absolutely no living creatures.
This was exactly the suppression site of the true demon that Dong Zuo had been desperately searching for.
He had originally thought that the true demon was definitely dead, and that the remaining true demonic energy would be enough for him to practice his secret art and break through to the Golden Core stage.
However, the true demon in this place had barely managed to preserve a wisp of residual consciousness, initiating a possession at Dong Zuo's most critical moment.
"No!"
"Why is there still a remnant of a true demon's consciousness left?!"
Within his sea of consciousness, Dong Zuo's soul roared madly. Before him hovered a black fog of demonic energy, from which came a sinister cackling.
"Boy, remember my name. I am Yeluomo. Being able to hand over your body to me is your honor!"
"I will descend upon the Heavenly South using your identity, and then I will rule the Heavenly South, becoming the master of this region!"
Although the true demon's residual consciousness was weak, Dong Zuo had been ambushed at a crucial moment. His soul was heavily injured, and under the true demon's assault, he only lasted for fifteen minutes before being possessed.
Afterward, the surrounding true demonic energy seemed to have found its rightful home, sinking into Dong Zuo's body.
It was dozens of times easier than when he had tried to absorb and refine it himself.
Two hours later.
"How comfortable!"
"But unfortunately, it's still too little. At most, I've recovered to the Early-Stage Golden Core. However, with the breath-concealing magical artifact this boy found, if I'm just a bit more careful, nothing should go wrong.
Later, I'll find a way to absorb the essence blood and soul of immortal cultivators to cultivate. Rapidly recovering to Golden Core Perfection won't be a big problem."
Having obtained all of Dong Zuo's memories in mere moments, Yeluomo devised a series of near-perfect plans.
His eyes flickered with dark light, as if a glorious demonic life was already beckoning to him!
The Dragon Girl watched this scene quietly, making no move to interfere.
The corners of her mouth lifted in a cold smirk. "You still want to become the master of a region? Do you really think the Heavenly Dao of this world has completely fallen asleep?"
Then, thinking of what Xu Chuan had said to Chen Changge, her mood improved again.
The only pity for her was that she wouldn't be able to personally watch the grand play that was about to unfold.
A few more hours passed.
A faint layer of white light surfaced on everyone's bodies, and then they were teleported out of the secret realm.
By a certain lake.
The Fire Barbarian Bull woke up from its nap, its slender red tail whipping against its own rump. It looked around and muttered, "Why hasn't that damn flood dragon arrived yet!"
"We agreed that demonic beasts wouldn't lie to demonic beasts!"
"Moo~"
After a furious bellow, it stepped into the forest and left the area.
Heavenly Azure Sect, main plaza.
As bursts of white light flared up, everyone who was still alive was teleported out.
Eighty-four people had entered, but only forty-six emerged. Nearly half had perished.
"Golden Core Stage?!"
The crowd of Golden Core Stage Cultivators on the plaza was immediately astonished to discover someone radiating Golden Core Pressure among the teleported returnees.
Taking a closer look...
"Chen Changge, you underwent Core Formation?!" A veteran Golden Core elder from the Green Wood Sect with entirely white hair and beard exclaimed in shock. Then, stroking his beard, he laughed. "Excellent, excellent!"
"Our Green Wood Sect has gained another Golden Core Stage cultivator. We will return to being the number one among the three sects once more!"
The elders of the Qingcang Sect and Jiaocang Sect were quite helpless, feeling a bit displeased in their hearts.
Without a doubt, everyone's gaze was drawn to Chen Changge. They all assumed he was the biggest winner of this trip to the secret realm!
"Changge, how were your gains this time?" the Green Wood Sect elder asked with a smile.
"To answer the elder, I was in seclusion for more than half a month, and I only successfully broke through shortly before coming out. My only opportunity was a metal-attribute Low Grade Connate Spirit Object, but unfortunately, it has already been consumed."
Saying this, he took out the spirit object, which had already lost its connate energy.
The various Golden Core Perfected Beings gave small nods.
Among those present, some were desolate, while others were overjoyed.
Perfected Person Fire Cloud flew over to Xu Chuan and Xu Deling, nodding. "It's good that you made it out. It doesn't matter how much you gained."
Xu Chuan smiled, then walked up to several elders of the Heavenly Azure Sect. Cupping his fists, he announced, "The Xu Family of Cloudstream Town obtained some opportunities in the secret realm and wishes to offer them to the Upper Sect."
"Oh? What do you wish to offer?" a Late-Stage Golden Core elder asked while stroking his beard.
Many people turned to look upon hearing this.
"The Xu Family of Cloudstream Town?"
"That's the Xu Family whose clansman was taken in by Perfected Person Fire Cloud as a legacy disciple."
Someone who had attended the disciple recruitment ceremony at Fire Cloud Valley explained.
Xu Chuan tapped his Storage Pouch, pulling out three sheets of paper that fluttered over to the elder.
"Are these pill recipes?"
The elder swept his gaze over them and smiled. "The Spirit-Gathering Pill and Origin-Gathering Pill. Both were rather famous ancient pills for refining Qi and refining Foundation Establishment spiritual power. Our sect already has the Spirit-Gathering Pill.
The Origin-Gathering Pill can enrich our sect's collection of Foundation Establishment Pill recipes.
As for the last one, the Heavenly Spirit Pill."
He paused and stared at Xu Chuan for a moment before continuing, "You certainly carry some providence with you, to be able to obtain such a pill recipe that assists in Core Formation.
Our sect does not have this pill recipe. I dabble in Alchemy myself, and judging by its difficulty, refining it shouldn't be any easier than refining a Tier 3 pill. It is also more precious than many Tier 3 pills.
This will be recorded as a merit for your Xu Family.
Speak, what reward do you desire?
Are you asking for a disciple quota in the Heavenly Azure Sect, or for us to protect your Xu Family?"
The surrounding onlookers were shocked to hear this. A pill recipe that assisted in Core Formation—this made many Golden Core Perfected Beings both envious and curious.
A Golden Core Perfected Being from a Golden Core Aristocratic Family asked, "If I may be so bold, Elder Mu, what exactly are the effects of that Heavenly Spirit Pill?"
Elder Mu did not hide it, slowly revealing, "As everyone knows, one of the keys for a Foundation Establishment Cultivator to form a core is Spiritual Power Crystallization. Many Foundation Establishment cultivators struggle to overcome even this hurdle.
And this pill accelerates one's own Spiritual Power Crystallization.
Once all the liquid spiritual power solidifies into a solid state, that is the False Core Realm. All that remains is charging at the Golden Core bottleneck."
"Pills that accelerate Spiritual Power Crystallization are indeed rare," a Golden Core elder from the Green Wood Sect remarked.
At this moment, Xu Chuan cupped his fists toward Elder Mu. "Elder Mu, this junior has thought it over. This junior wishes to obtain the sales rights for these pills, as well as the protection of the Heavenly Azure Sect."
Elder Mu's gaze flickered slightly. "The pill recipe is an opportunity you obtained. If your Xu Family can refine them, you naturally have the right to sell them. Additionally, I promise to protect your Xu Family for a hundred years.
This is a Heavenly Azure Sect Token. It represents the face of our Heavenly Azure Sect. I imagine that within the seven Heavenly Azure cities and the Three Sects, there shouldn't be anyone who won't give our Heavenly Azure Sect this small shred of face.
Of course, if your Xu Family provokes other factions from outside regions, it's hard to say whether they will give us face."
"Thank you, Elder Mu. This junior will carefully remember your teachings. Our Xu Family would not dare act recklessly."
Elder Mu nodded slightly and then tucked away the pill recipes.
Xu Chuan returned to Perfected Person Fire Cloud's side, just as Elder Chihuo came walking over.
Right at this moment.
Chen Changge spoke to the Green Wood Sect elder. "Elder, I have some private matters to attend to. A new disciple has offended me..."
The Green Wood Sect elder hesitated slightly. "Just teaching him a lesson is fine. You are now a Golden Core Perfected Being. Unless he is a mortal enemy, there is no need to lay a deadly hand on a lowly Foundation Establishment Stage cultivator."
"I understand."
When Yeluomo came out, he had also relied on a magical artifact to conceal himself as a lowly Early Foundation Establishment cultivator.
He stood in a corner of the plaza, feeling confident that no one would notice him.
Suddenly.
A wave of Golden Core Pressure descended upon him, causing his body to sink slightly and his pupils to contract sharply.
"Dong Zuo, take three palm strikes from this Perfected Being! If you survive, the matter between us is settled!"
Chen Changge didn't give Yeluomo a chance to explain at all. His right hand formed an incantation seal, and golden radiance surged from his fingertips. Wisps of Golden Core spiritual power condensed into physical forms, turning into a pale golden palm print the size of a hand.
The edges of the palm print glowed with sharp, fine golden blade-like light. As it hovered over his palm, the surrounding air seemed to be sliced apart, emitting a soft hiss-hiss sound.
Even an ordinary Foundation Establishment Perfection cultivator would find it hard to take this attack head-on, much less an Early Foundation Establishment immortal cultivator.
Seeing this, the Green Wood Sect elder initially wanted to warn him against it, but he figured that since Chen Changge had achieved Core Formation, he would certainly become an elder upon returning to the sect and be heavily relied upon.
Furthermore, given his aptitude and potential, he would definitely go much further in the future than the elder himself.
Offending him over a mere new disciple would likely do more harm than good.
Therefore, he didn't try to stop him.
'What is going on? In Dong Zuo's memories, he hasn't even spoken a single word to this Chen Changge. Where is this grudge coming from?'
Yeluomo frantically grumbled in his heart. 'Could it be that some of the memories are missing?'
But under the current circumstances, Yeluomo had no time to think deeply. He tapped his Storage Pouch, and a Peak-Grade Defensive Dharma Tool flew out to block the attack.
The palm print tore through the air, as fast as a shooting star, carrying peerlessly sharp gold-element spiritual power.
The shield in front of Yeluomo raised a light screen.
However, the light screen only lasted for a breath or two before shattering.
"Clang~"
The residual might of the golden palm smashed fiercely against the shield's surface. The shield was knocked backward, crashing into Yeluomo's body.
This body had already been reinforced by his demonic energy, so taking this hit wasn't a major issue.
The key was that he couldn't expose his demonic energy. Thus, Yeluomo feigned a severe injury, flying backward.
He hoped someone would speak up and stop it.
Unfortunately, no one did.
'As expected, they're all a bunch of hypocrites!' Yeluomo cursed inwardly.
Seeing this, Chen Changge's gaze turned icy. There really was something wrong with this guy. His figure blurred, and his Golden Core spiritual power surged once more.
This time, the golden radiance on his palm was even brighter, condensing into a five-foot-wide golden palm. Golden runes faintly flashed between the palm lines.
"Second strike!"
The golden palm howled as it tore through the air, more than twice as strong as the first strike. It already contained seventy or eighty percent of Chen Changge's power, compressing the air around Dong Zuo so much that it seemed to freeze.
'This Chen Changge isn't leaving me any leeway at all!
His second move is already like this. Fighting an opponent of the same realm would be no different.
Damn it!
Even if I forcibly take this strike, taking another one right after will severely wound my demonic body, and I won't be able to stay perfectly hidden anymore!'
He gritted his teeth fiercely. Black demonic fog suddenly billowed around him. His previously calm aura instantly turned vicious and dark, as if tearing away a disguise to reveal his true self.
Yeluomo's hands formed bizarre demonic seals. A dark red true demon mark surfaced on his forehead. His eyes turned pitch-black like ink, with a wicked crimson light shining from their depths.
The surrounding crowd, who previously hadn't paid much attention, was immediately provoked by this pure demonic energy. Everyone whipped their heads around to look.
"Demonic energy!" Every Golden Core Perfected Being present couldn't help but cry out in alarm.
"He's actually a Golden Core demonic cultivator!"
"How is that possible? How did he sneak in among the secret realm participants?!"
Yeluomo grabbed with his right hand, and the demonic fog condensed into a black demonic blade. He slashed it toward Chen Changge's golden palm.
The demonic blade clashed with the golden palm.
With a thunderous boom, the golden palm print shattered, and the demonic blade shot violently toward Chen Changge.
If it hit, Chen Changge would suffer heavy injuries.
Just at that moment.
With a wave of Elder Mu's hand, a streak of green spiritual power shot over and blocked the demonic blade.
Demonic energy and spiritual power surged wildly. Chen Changge was forced back thirty feet before he managed to stop.
He was also shocked. He unconsciously cast a glance at Xu Chuan, then swiftly withdrew his gaze and stared at Yeluomo again.
"We cannot let this fiend escape!"
"All Golden Core Stage Cultivators, attack together!"
Facing over a dozen Golden Core Stage immortal cultivators of varying strength, including six Late-Stage Golden Core cultivators, Yeluomo's expression turned grave.
The profound spiritual power of a Late-Stage Golden Core was like an abyssal ocean. The mere pressure was enough to make his demonic energy stagnate, let alone the combined force of over a dozen people.
"A flock of clay chickens and pottery dogs, you dare try to block me?!"
Yeluomo growled low in his throat, rapidly chanting a demonic tongue. The syllables were obscure and grating, sounding like shrieking evil ghosts.
As the incantation finished, the black demonic energy around his body explosively swelled. It was no longer the thin mist from before, but condensed into substantial demonic flames that writhed around him.
With the appearance of the demonic flames, Yeluomo's aura climbed steadily. In the blink of an eye, it rose to a level comparable to the Late-Stage Golden Core.
He flipped his left hand, and a ten-foot demonic halberd appeared in his grasp. The halberd's blade gleamed with a dark red, blood-like light, trembling slightly as demonic energy poured into it.
His right hand formed a seal. Black light surged, completely covering his body and eventually forming a suit of battle armor.
"A Divine Ability battle armor!"
Elder Mu's expression changed drastically. "No, your aura indicates you've only just stepped into the Golden Core stage. How could you possibly know such a rare Demonic Dao Divine Ability?"
Chen Changge remembered Xu Chuan's words and said, "Elder Mu, this demon is likely not Dong Zuo. Dong Zuo was previously at Foundation Establishment Perfection and wanted to enter the secret realm to find a breakthrough opportunity.
Perhaps he has been possessed by a demonic entity sealed within the secret realm!"
"A demonic entity from the secret realm? You are an Ancient True Demon?!"
Yeluomo cackled sinisterly. "As expected of a Nascent Soul sect, you indeed know some hidden secrets. I have no time to tangle with you. Get out of my way!"
He swung the demonic halberd, unleashing Demonic Divine Abilities right off the bat. Its might was monstrous. Combined with his Divine Ability battle armor, he forcefully fended off the attacks of every Golden Core cultivator present.
Cultivators below the Golden Core stage hastily distanced themselves. Watching the torrential auras at the center of the battlefield, their eyes were filled with horror. This scene was something they would probably never forget for the rest of their lives.
Xu Chuan was also amazed.
An Ancient True Demon possession?!
Thankfully, he hadn't stubbornly rushed to mess with it, or he would have definitely been slapped to death with a single strike!
"When I descend upon your Heavenly Azure Sect once again, it will be the day you all die!"
"Demon, cease your arrogance!"
Suddenly, a deep shout rang out from the horizon, rolling across the ground like a clap of thunder.
As the voice fell, a vigorous figure stepped down from the clouds through the void.
He wore a profound black Daoist robe bordered with gold. His hair and beard were completely white, yet his face was ruddy. The Nascent Soul Stage pressure surrounding him poured down like a vast ocean. The moment he appeared, the turbulent spiritual power across the entire plaza came to a dead halt!
Upon seeing him, the Golden Core elders and disciples of the Heavenly Azure Sect all bowed and greeted, "Greetings, Grand Elder!"
Everyone else addressed him as Senior.
Yeluomo's pupils shrank drastically, and his demonic flames actually trembled involuntarily.
A Nascent Soul's pressure was entirely incomparable to a Golden Core's. That abundant spiritual power pierced straight through his demonic flames, seemingly intent on crushing his very soul.
The Nascent Soul Grand Elder's gaze was slightly cold. He raised his right hand, formed a sword gesture, and swiped outward with his fingers.
A golden sword light condensed, rapidly expanding to over eighty feet in size before cleaving directly at Yeluomo's front.
This sword light looked unadorned, but with Yeluomo's discerning eye, he naturally recognized it as a formidable Divine Ability, something a Golden Core Stage Cultivator could never hope to block.
Wielding his demonic halberd, Yeluomo unleashed his Divine Ability once more.
But how could it compare to the might of the golden sword light?
Not only was the demonic halberd severed, but even the Divine Ability battle armor on his body shattered inch by inch. Shrapnel wrapped in demonic flames splashed out in all directions.
Yeluomo looked as if he had suffered a devastating blow, a massive gash cleaved into his torso.
His forcibly elevated cultivation base quickly plummeted back to the Early-Stage Golden Core, dipping even lower.
"Curse you!"
"If I hadn't just emerged into this world and lost my peak strength, how could I ever allow a puny Nascent Soul cultivator to act so brazenly before me?!"
"Die!"
Murderous intent surged in the eyes of the Heavenly Azure Sect's Nascent Soul Grand Elder. With a sweep of his sleeve, a streak of golden light flew out.
Within the flowing light was a Flying Sword.
The pressure carried by the Flying Sword's light far exceeded the previous attack. Its piercing gleam seemed capable of tearing apart space itself. Anyone who looked at it felt a sharp edge thrusting straight at them.
A flash of panic crossed Yeluomo's eyes, swiftly replaced by ruthless savagery. "You want to kill me? It won't be that easy!"
"True Demon Disintegration!"
He roared hoarsely, burning every last drop of the residual true demonic energy within his body to execute this mighty Demonic Dao Secret Art, trading it for a fleeting burst of immense power.
He raised his fist, and the black fog churned, coalescing in the air into a giant, incomparably pitch-black fist.
He punched outward!
Boom!
The Flying Sword's light collided with the black fist!
The sky instantly erupted in a blinding flash. Spiritual energy and demonic energy turned into a tidal wave, rushing in all directions.
The Flying Sword's light was shattered, and the sword itself tumbled backward.
Seizing this gap, Yeluomo transformed into over a dozen black rainbows, ignoring his injuries as he scattered in every direction.
This was also an evasion Divine Ability, something ordinary power could not intercept.
In just a few breaths, there was no trace of Yeluomo within a radius of hundreds of miles. Even a Nascent Soul Stage cultivator could no longer track him down.
The true demon crisis seemed to have subsided, but everyone else knew the real danger had only just begun.
"Grand Elder, should we give chase?"
"Dispatch people to search for this demon's traces over the next month. Also, send word to the neighboring Nascent Soul level factions, and notify the Profound Moon Sect.
Even the weakest Ancient True Demon is at the Soul Formation Stage. Although he is currently weak, if he recovers his strength, he will inevitably drown the Heavenly South in a sea of blood.
To them, the essence blood and Golden Core souls of us immortal cultivators are excellent medicine to help boost their power!"
The expressions of every Golden Core cultivator present changed upon hearing this.
"However, he was heavily wounded by me and subsequently deployed the True Demon Disintegration—a secret art comparable to burning one's lifespan. His cultivation has undoubtedly plummeted to the Foundation Establishment stage.
In his condition, recovering his Golden Core strength will not be easy unless he finds true demonic energy.
Of course, he is still an Ancient True Demon after all. Having fought him, you all know he commands a variety of Divine Abilities at his fingertips. Even at Foundation Establishment Perfection, he can battle an Early-Stage Golden Core cultivator.
You must tread carefully."
"Understood. We will strictly follow the Grand Elder's orders," Elder Mu and the others bowed with cupped hands.
"Who discovered this demon?"
Elder Mu answered, "Chen Changge of the Green Wood Sect. He obtained a Low Grade Connate Spirit Object in the secret realm and advanced to the Golden Core."
The Nascent Soul Grand Elder looked toward Chen Changge. After studying him for a few moments, he gave a slight nod. "Not bad. To be able to discover him in advance warrants a heavy reward!"
"Yes, Grand Elder."
Before his words had even faded, the Nascent Soul Grand Elder transformed into a streak of rainbow light and soared off into the distance.
Elder Mu looked at Chen Changge. "Daoist Friend Chen, you have rendered merit by exposing the Ancient Demon. What reward do you seek?"
Chen Changge pondered for a moment. "I am worried that the Ancient Demon might seek a chance to retaliate against my Chen Family because of this. I implore the Heavenly Azure Sect to help set up a Tier 3 defensive formation for my family."
"Agreed," Elder Mu replied. "Our sect will additionally grant you three Essence Cultivating Pills to help you quickly consolidate your Golden Core Stage cultivation. How does that sound?"
"Thank you, Elder Mu," Chen Changge cupped his fists.
Then, Elder Mu swept his gaze across the area. "Everyone, remember to carefully guard yourselves over the next month. If anyone finds traces of the Ancient Demon, you can claim a reward of resources from our Heavenly Azure Sect.
If anyone manages to slay the Ancient Demon, you will be rewarded with a Golden Core Formation Opportunity!"
Hearing this, some were immediately tempted, but the majority retained their reason.
A Foundation Establishment stage cultivator confronting an Ancient Demon meant certain death!
"Alright, this trip to the secret realm concludes here. All members of outer sects may leave."
The aristocratic families of the seven cities and the Three Sects dispersed one by one.
Elder Chihuo stepped forward with a soft sigh. "To think the Ancient Demon incident would erupt during this secret realm opening. It seems this is not the time for our contest. It would be best to postpone it."
"In three months, bring your disciple to my Fire Cloud Valley," Perfected Person Fire Cloud said.
"Acceptable." Perfected Person Chihuo thought it over and, finding no major issues, agreed.
"Let's go."
Perfected Person Fire Cloud led Xu Chuan and Xu Deling away.
On the way, Perfected Person Fire Cloud asked, "Disciple, will you come straight to Fire Cloud Valley with me, or return to the Xu Family first?"
Xu Deling pondered for a few breaths before replying, "Honored Master, this disciple wishes to return to the Xu Family for a short while and head to Fire Cloud Valley in two days."
"Alright. Send me a message then, and your master will come fetch you."
"Thank you, Honored Master."
After escorting Xu Chuan and Xu Deling back to the Xu Family, Perfected Person Fire Cloud returned to Fire Cloud Cave.
Watching the streak of red light as he departed, Xu Deling suddenly turned to look at Xu Chuan. "Grandfather, Ling'er wants to make a rubbing of the Dao of Artifacts inheritance obtained this time and give it to Master for research."
Xu Chuan's gaze rippled slightly, and a faint smile touched his lips. "You acquired the inheritance, so naturally, it is up to you to decide. It would be best to push the credit of finding this Dao of Artifacts inheritance onto Perfected Person Fire Cloud.
That way, it won't draw any suspicion."
Xu Deling gave a subtle nod. "Ling'er knows what she's doing. I know what can be said and what cannot, and I will do my utmost to bring Master to join the Xu Family."
As soon as Xu Chuan and Xu Deling returned, Xu Mingxian immediately exited seclusion to greet them.
"Father, Deling, you're back."
Xu Chuan nodded.
Xu Deling called out, "Fifth Uncle."
Xu Chuan gave Xu Mingxian a brief recount of their trip to the secret realm and the incident with the Ancient True Demon possessing someone to re-emerge.
Hearing about the terrifying Ancient Demon, Xu Mingxian's expression became exceedingly solemn.
"You don't need to worry about the Ancient Demon. Your father will keep an eye out and give advance warning if there's danger. Besides, our Xu Family has Tier 3 Formations secretly protecting us.
Even if he wants to target us, it won't be that easy.
Furthermore, Chen Changge won't leak the fact that I reminded him. Unless it's purely a coincidence, the demon has no reason to specifically come after our Xu Family."
Xu Mingxian's expression eased somewhat. He then said, "With Chen Changge advancing to become a Perfected Person this time, judging by his attitude toward you, Father, our two families should be able to act as mutual allies from now on."
"Chen Changge is indeed worth befriending. We can engage in moderate trade with the Chen Family," Xu Chuan stated calmly. "This time in the secret realm, we stumbled into a massive windfall, securing five Golden Core Formation Opportunities.
If you aren't in a hurry to form your core, you can delay it until the next sixty-year cycle of the secret realm. With your foundation in the Array Dao, you will certainly be able to obtain a portion of the ancient Azure Dragon Sect's Array Dao Inheritance then.
The same applies to Mingyuan.
If you can undergo Divine Ability Core Formation, it's best to do so. That way, your hopes of achieving Nascent Soul Formation in the future will be far greater.
Of course, if any unexpected changes arise, I will follow your wishes and let you form your cores early. As for practicing Divine Abilities, you can take your time.
Deling and I have both already decided to walk the Divine Ability Golden Core Path.
The status of True Disciple in the Azure Dragon Sect must be secured!"
Xu Mingxian bowed with his hands. "Your son obeys Father's arrangements."
That evening.
Ye Fan and Xu Deyue returned. Upon seeing Xu Chuan and Xu Deling, they were similarly overjoyed and pestered Xu Deling to tell them about the trip to the secret realm.
Ye Fan called Xu Chuan his Honored Master and called Xu Deling "Sister Ling." Basically, everyone had their own forms of address.
Xu Chuan couldn't be bothered to correct them.
After learning about the recent situation of the trading firm and the Xu Family from Ye Fan, finding nothing major going on, he retreated to the backyard.
He transplanted the Azure Spirit Fruit tree into the Ink-colored Potted Plant, giving the locust sapling and the Heavenly God Fruit tree some company.
Every time he watered the locust sapling with the Vitality Liquid, he made sure to share benefits equally among all of them.
The appearance of the Ancient Demon Yeluomo spread throughout the surrounding area in just two days. All factions and families felt the sound of the wind and the cry of the cranes, becoming jittery and easily frightened by rumors. Disciples of Foundation Establishment families didn't even dare venture out for experiential learning.
Two days later.
Xu Deling accompanied Perfected Person Fire Cloud back to Fire Cloud Valley.
Within the cavern at Fire Cloud Valley.
Xu Deling suddenly spoke up, "Honored Master, this disciple obtained a Dao of Artifacts inheritance from the Heavenly Azure Secret Realm this time and wishes to study it alongside you."
Perfected Person Fire Cloud was slightly taken aback, his gaze flickering. Then, stroking his beard, he laughed. "I told you my disciple was someone with great providence! How could you return empty-handed?
However, knowing your grandfather's temperament, there are probably strings attached."
"If this disciple had no attachments, I would naturally hold nothing back. But my Xu Family rose from obscurity, tiptoeing with caution every step of the way to reach our current standing.
As a member of the Xu Family, Ling'er must consider their wellbeing."
Perfected Person Fire Cloud nodded in satisfaction. "To have thought of your master after acquiring an inheritance is enough to leave me fully content. Go on, what are the conditions?"
"Do not leak that this inheritance came from our Xu Family. Just pretend that you acquired it, Honored Master, and then imparted it to me."
Stroking his beard, Perfected Person Fire Cloud asked in surprise, "Is that it?"
"The inheritances in the secret realm belong to the ancient Azure Dragon Sect and are all exceedingly precious. Ling'er, aren't you going to demand that your master join the Xu Family?"
Xu Deling smiled with bright eyes. "Didn't Honored Master say we would discuss that when our Xu Family becomes a Golden Core Aristocratic Family?"
"As for becoming a guest elder, unless one is willing and possesses a clean background, our Xu Family will not arbitrarily recruit them.
Otherwise, it will only sow the seeds of disaster for the family.
Moreover, this disciple believes that Honored Master will definitely be willing to become our Xu Family's guest elder in the future."
"You little lass!" Perfected Person Fire Cloud laughed, pointing at her. "Your Xu Family is indeed impressive. They have nurtured you exceptionally well.
Even among the aristocratic families of the seven cities, the Three Sects, and the families within the Heavenly Azure Sect, very few female cultivators can compare to you."
"This disciple's excellence is also partially thanks to you, Honored Master."
"You're just feeding your master sugar-coated bullets!" Perfected Person Fire Cloud continued to chuckle. "As for becoming a guest elder for your Xu Family, I promise I will seriously consider it."
"Thank you, Honored Master."
"Take out the Dao of Artifacts inheritance and let your master appreciate it. Let us see how the ancient Azure Dragon Sect's Dao of Artifacts inheritance compares to what I have acquired."
"Yes, Honored Master."
An hour later.
"It is indeed profound. The ancient era truly deserved to be called a golden age. Geniuses emerged in droves across all Immortal Arts. The Azure Dragon Sect was not considered the absolute top sect of its time, yet they still preserved such a Dao of Artifacts inheritance.
This is probably just a portion of it, correct?"
"Indeed," Xu Deling nodded in agreement.
"Although it lacks content on forging Spirit Treasures, it is still far more comprehensive and abstruse than what your master possesses."
"As for the forging of Spirit Treasures, this disciple will certainly retrieve it for you one day, Honored Master."
"Haha, you truly are my good disciple! With an apprentice like you, I, Fire Cloud, have no other desires in this life!"
In the blink of an eye, a month passed.
Within the Heavenly Azure Sect's sphere of influence, not a single trace of the Ancient Demon was seen.
However, they had also relayed the news to the surrounding Nascent Soul level factions and the number one sect of the Northwest Region in the Heavenly South—the Profound Moon Sect.
The Profound Moon Sect.
Atop a certain mountain peak wreathed in mist formed from dense spiritual energy, sat a grand hall.
Suddenly, a streak of escaping light shot over, landing directly inside the hall.
"Honored Master," a middle-aged man in purple robes said, cupping his fists toward an old man sitting cross-legged on a praying mat at the front of the hall.
"What is it?" the old man asked indifferently, not even opening his eyes.
"In the Heavenly Azure Secret Realm, an Ancient Demon possessed a demonic cultivator and emerged into the world. It is now roaming freely across our Northwest Region."
"Heavenly Azure Sect."
The old man suddenly opened his eyes. Two rays of brilliant light shot forth, piercing straight into the void.
"So that's how it is."
"What do you mean by that, Honored Master?"
"No need to ask too many questions. As the Sect Master of the Profound Moon Sect, you can handle this matter yourself. In this day and age, an Ancient Demon trying to stir up trouble won't find it so easy.
Let alone an Ancient Demon that had to rely on possession just to escape a secret realm."
The purple-robed middle-aged man pondered for a moment before cupping his fists again. "This disciple understands. I shall take my leave first."
With that, he rode a streak of light and departed.
"As expected of someone with great providence. Wherever he goes, disaster stirs. It truly mirrors my demeanor from when I was young!"
The corners of the old man's lips hooked up slightly. He could naturally sense that the Profound Moon Sect Token containing a wisp of his divine sense was currently within the Heavenly Azure Sect's sphere of influence.
However, he wouldn't go out of his way to search for him.
He believed that with their entangled providence, there would eventually come a day when they would meet.
Not long after.
The Profound Moon Sect issued an order: all sects and factions in the Northwest Region were to search for the Ancient Demon's whereabouts. Anyone who killed it would receive a reward from the Profound Moon Sect.