501-505
Chapter 501: Demon Cinque Beast - Breakthrough
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97
A few minutes later, the injuries of Elder Hu and the others had fully recovered. Every single one of them was overflowing with vitality.
"Thank you, Zhang shi..." The crowd expressed their gratitude.
Even though they had already paid for the services so they didn't owe anything to Zhang Xuan, the other party's medical skill was still simply way too astonishing. It was almost miraculous, and it was hard to believe that someone in the world was capable of such a feat.
"The Demon Cinque Beast has already been tamed by Zhang shi so it would be a waste of time if we were to remain here. Thus, I won't be imposing on you all any longer. Farewell!"
Hall Master Han clasped his fist and bade his farewell.
His primary objective here was to tame the Demon Cinque Beast. However, since Zhang shi had already tamed it, there was no reason for him to remain here any longer.
Even though he had failed to tame the Demon Cinque Beast, he had recovered from his trauma. With this alone, he was confident that he could triumph over Luo Ming and obtain the qualification to study at the headquarter.
So, his final objective could be said to have been met. In a sense, his trip wasn't wasted.
"Farewell!" Zhang Xuan, Hall Master Sai, and the others clasped their fists as well.
"Given how talented Zhang shi is, if I'm not mistaken, you should be participating in the Master Teacher Tournament two months from now, right? I'll definitely head there personally to support you!" Hall Master Han chuckled before leaving.
Given the extent of the other party's capability and his identity as a master teacher, and considering the major affairs surrounding the Myriad Kingdom City during this period of time, it wasn't too difficult to deduce his next objective.
No matter what, he owed the other party a debt. If there was a chance, he would like to repay it. Besides, given the other party's immense capability and his proficiency in various occupations, he was a person worth befriending.
After Hall Master Han and the others left, the area grew quiet once more.
"Zhang shi, do we enter the tomb now or do we rest here first?"
Luo Zhu looked at Zhang Xuan with a look of admiration.
The previous time he came here, he had to operate secretly for fear of being noticed by the Demon Cinque Beast. Yet, the person before him had managed to tame this notorious fellow. This was something he could never have imagined in the past.
With the threat from the Demon Cinque Beast out of the way, there wasn't any reason for them to rush anymore. They could enter the tomb whenever they liked.
"Hold on for a moment. We'll enter after I solve the problem the Demon Cinque Beast is suffering from."
Zhang Xuan waved his hands.
"Problem? It isn't injured though…" The crowd was perplexed.
This big fellow possessed such mighty strength and its defense was invincible within the Myriad Kingdom Alliance. Even when battling against Hall Master Han and the others, it was able to crush all of them easily.
Solving its problem?
What kind of problem could it have?
"The Soul Devouring Ants don't have much of an influence on ordinary lifeforms and humans. However, they are yin attribute lifeforms—otherwise they wouldn't have sustained themselves by consuming souls—and after loitering around this area for a month or two, even if the Demon Cinque Beast didn't really come into contact with them, it would still be affected by the yin energy they exude."
Placing his hands behind his back, Zhang Xuan explained impassively. "The intense battle just a moment ago caused the yin energy to seep into its internal organs. If it isn't cleared away swiftly, it'll be hard for it to achieve any breakthroughs in the future!"
"There's actually such a matter?"
"If that's the case, shouldn't we stay away from those Soul Devouring Ants as well?"
Upon hearing that even a powerful existence like the Demon Cinque Beast would be affected by the Soul Devouring Ants, everyone was alarmed. They immediately scanned their surroundings warily.
At this moment, after consuming the cooked Deerhorde Beast, the satisfied Soul Devouring Ants had burrowed back underground. Thus, there wasn't any trace of them left on the surface.
If they hadn't witnessed it personally, it would have been difficult for them to believe that this ancient creature, which hadn't been sighted for such a long period of time, truly existed in the world.
To consume even formations... It was truly a fearsome existence.
"It'll be fine as long as you all don't consume the water from the lake!" Zhang Xuan said, "The Soul Devouring Ants can sense that the soul oracle tomb is beneath the lake. Thus, even though the water may seem clean, it is actually filled with the corpses of these fellows. One of the main reasons why the Demon Cinque Beast is plagued by the yin energy of these fellows is due to drinking the water from the lake."
Everyone came to a realization.
These creatures were drawn here by the scent of the soul oracle tomb. Realizing that the tomb was beneath the lake, it was inevitable that some of them would be unable to resist the allure and attempt to head for the soul oracle tomb. As time slowly passed, the water became unsafe for consumption.
"Then... how can this problem be solved?" Luo Zhu asked.
Since even the Demon Cinque Beast could be plagued by the yin energy, what should they do if they were affected as well?
Everyone also turned their gazes over. They wanted to know the solution so that they would know what to do if they were to ingest the water from the lake accidentally.
"Simple, you just have to chew on the grass by the side!" Zhang Xuan pointed.
"Chew on the grass?" Taken aback, everyone instinctively turned to the Demon Cinque Beast, which was still busy chewing on the grass, with a dumbfounded expression.
They thought that Zhang shi's act of ordering the Demon Cinque Beast to chew on grass was a punishment, but from the looks of it now, it seemed like he had another motive in mind.
This explained why this massive fellow didn't feel displeased in the slightest, it even went on and munched on the grass excitedly.
"If I'm not mistaken, this should be Bluerain Grass, right? This grass can be found all around the mountain. However, if I recall correctly, this grass should have no particular attribute at all. Why would eating this grass clear away the yin energy in one's body?"
Hall Master Sai was bewildered.
As an appraiser, he boasted vast knowledge. As such, he was able to identify the grass in an instant.
Bluerain Grass grew on mountainous areas that were near a water source. It didn't have any effect or attribute, and as such, it couldn't even be considered as a medicinal herb. Why would it be able to expel the yin energy from the Soul Devouring Ants?
"It's true that this grass primarily has no attribute or effect. However, one has to take their environment into consideration as well. If it's the patch of grass over there, it'll be completely ineffective!" Zhang Xuan pointed.
He was pointing at the dense bunch of Bluerain Grasses that grew by the side of the lake.
Everyone blinked their eyes in bewilderment.
It was just a distance of several dozen meters, why would the grass over there be ineffective? There was nothing different with their environment at all!
Seeing the doubt on everyone's faces, Zhang Xuan smiled and shook his head, "This is where the Demon Cinque Beast relieved itself... In other words, it is its toilet."
"Toilet?"
Everyone blinked.
"The Demon Cinque Beast carries the Dragon Bloodline, which is rich in yang energy. Naturally, its waste product carries powerful yang attribute. Under such nourishment, the Bluerain Grass in that area naturally took on this attribute as well."
After explaining, Zhang Xuan turned to look at them and said, "If you are worried, you can cut a few stalks and bring it along with you. The moment you realize that something is amiss, just take a bunch out and chew on it..."
"I'll pass..."
"Zhang shi, thank you for your advice. However, since you said it's fine, there should be no need to do so!"
Everyone hurriedly waved their hands.
They were still agitated over it a moment ago, but after learning that those were grass which the Demon Cinque Beast used to relief itself, they immediately lost their interest.
Knowing what the crowd was thinking, Zhang Xuan didn't touch on the topic any further. Instead, he walked up to the Demon Cinque Beast.
At this moment, this gigantic fellow had already consumed a huge quantity of Bluerain Grass already. The yang energy within its body was gradually searing the yin energy accumulated within its body.
Taking out a few silver needles, Zhang Xuan casually pierced them into several locations on the Demon Cinque Beast.
Boom!
A loud explosion sounded, and everyone immediately felt the Demon Cinque Beast's aura rising swiftly.
"Is it going to make a breakthrough?"
Hall Master Sai and Jin Conghai stared at one another in shock.
At Transcendent Mortal 5-dan, one's soul would become even more harmonized with the environment, thus augmenting one's strength greatly.
If the first four dans of the Transcendent Mortal realm, Prolonged Longevity, Origin Energy, Yin-Yang, and Clarifying Turbidity, could be considered as refining one's zhenqi and enhancing one's control over the environment, then from this realm onward, one's soul would be nourished and tempered.
This was precisely the reason why even though Transcendent Mortal 4-dan pinnacle master teachers, despite their strength, could only be only considered as 4-star master teacher. Unable to produce [Long-range Tutelage Jade Token], they couldn't be considered to have reached half 5-star.
Only when one's cultivation had reached Consonant Spirit would one be able to sever a sliver of one's soul to seal it within a Tutelage Jade Token to guide others.
One could say that the gap between Transcendent Mortal 4-dan and 5-dan concerned the metamorphosis of one's soul, and it was a major hurdle to overcome.
Many people were stuck at this step, unable to make a breakthrough until the end of their lives.
Despite the long history of the Myriad Kingdom Alliance and the innumerable talents who had come and gone, there were less than a few who had managed to surpass this boundary.
And for spirit beasts, due to their weaker souls, it was far harder for them to make this breakthrough compared to humans.
This fellow was already at Transcendent Mortal 4-dan pinnacle, and yet, at this moment, its aura was currently rising swiftly. Could it really be attempting to break through to the Consonant Spirit realm?
The duo hurriedly turned their gazes over.
"It can't make the breakthrough yet!"
Seeing the agitation on the faces of the duo, Zhang Xuan replied calmly, "All beings in the world are made equal. Due to the overwhelmingly powerful physical body of the Demon Cinque Beast, it was harder for its soul to make a metamorphosis. Similarly, if one's soul is too strong, under normal circumstances, one's physical body wouldn't be too strong."
After contemplating for a moment, Zhang Xuan said, "However... after consuming the Bluerain Grass, the yin energy has melded as one with the yang energy. At the same time, I've also cleared some of its meridians. Thus, it's inevitable that it'll enjoy a huge leap in its cultivation. Even though this isn't sufficient for it to reach Consonant Spirit realm, Half-Consonant Spirit shouldn't be a problem!"
"Half-Consonant Spirit?"
"That's already very fearsome! If I recall correctly, the old ancestor of the Myriad Kingdom Alliance is also at this realm..."
Hearing those words, the duo still leaped in shock.
Half-Consonant Spirit, similar to Half-Zongshi and Half-Zhizun, referred to a person who was infinitesimally close to Consonant Spirit realm but had yet to take the last step forward.
Not only was the physical body of an expert at this level strong, his soul would tend to be exceptionally powerful as well. No Transcendent Mortal 4-dan pinnacle expert would be his match.
If say, the Demon Cinque Beast was already overpowered due to its Dragon Bloodline and talents, it would be even more fearsome now.
If it were to go on a rampage, even the old ancestor of Myriad Kingdom Alliance wouldn't be able to stand against it.
Formidable!
Hong long long!
Amidst the shocked gazes of the duo, the Demon Cinque Beast's rising aura finally came to a halt. Just as Zhang shi had guessed, it didn't manage to make the final breakthrough into Consonant Spirit realm, stopping at Half-Consonant Spirit instead.
Even so, with this strength, there was already no one who could subdue it in the Myriad Kingdom Alliance already.
Roar!
Knowing that it was only with his master's help that his cultivation had risen and his trauma resolved, it rushed forward excitedly to Zhang Xuan and bowed respectfully.
Previously, it had only feared the other party due to the high possibility of the other party being a Pureblooded Dragon due to his ability to utter the Dragon Language. However, at this moment, he felt truly grateful to the other party.
If not for him, it wouldn't have been able to reach this realm without a century of hard work.
Seeing its attitude, Zhang Xuan knew that this fellow was sincerely swearing fealty to him this time. Thus, he nodded his head in satisfaction and instructed, "That's right, we're diving to the bottom of the lake. Guard the area outside for us. If any human or beast dares to barge into this area, kill them without exception!"
The situation below was still a mystery, and having to watch their backs for enemies while exploring the region would've been troublesome.
With this large fellow guarding in the area, they wouldn't have to worry about any knives behind their back.
"Roar!" The Demon Cinque Beast nodded its head.
"Alright, let's set off!"
After giving out the necessary instructions, Zhang Xuan surveyed the surroundings before leaping into the lake along with Luo Zhu.
Zhao Ya and the others quickly followed suit.
After so much hard work... The soul oracle tomb was finally right before them.
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Chapter 502: Celestial Designer
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97
The lake was frigid and everyone immediately felt a bone-piercing chill as soon as they stepped in.
Following behind Luo Zhu, Zhang Xuan dived down into the lake.
Even the weakest among the crowd was at Zhizun realm. At that level, holding one's breath for twenty to thirty minutes wasn't a problem at all.
Even though Zhao Feiwu's cultivation was slightly lacking, Jin Conghai used his zhenqi to form a protective layer around her and kept transfusing zhenqi to her. As such, she was able to avoid suffocation.
Initially, with the light that shone through the surface of the lake, they could still see the situation before them. However, as they went deeper in, darkness began to envelop them.
Prepared, Luo Zhu took out a few Night Illumination Pearls and passed one to everyone. Under the gentle light, the underwater world appeared clearly before them.
Due to the excessive frigidity of the water, there were no lifeforms in it. Swimming downward, at around a depth of seventy to eighty meters deep, they finally saw the bottom of the lake. Corals of various differing colors filled area.
It was impossible to speak underwater so Luo Zhu communicated via gesturing to the crowd. He adeptly maneuvered around the coral-filled ground and advanced. Before long, a cliff appeared before them.
The surface of the cliff was smooth, and it didn't seem as though there was anything unique about it. If one didn't know that a soul oracle tomb was hidden within it beforehand, it would be impossible to know that there was a hidden mechanism on it.
Flicking his wrist, Luo Zhu took out a stone plate, and after feeling about the wall for a moment, he found a precise aperture and inserted the stone plate into it.
Jiya!
A mechanism was activated. The cliff suddenly came to life and started opening up.
"What exquisite craftsmanship!"
Zhang Xuan's eyes lit up.
Even though it was a mechanism created out of rock, there wasn't even the slightest mark on its surface that betrayed its identity. It might be less intricate than the Celestial Designer Mechanical Container, but its craftsmanship was still far superior compared to the other artifacts he had seen before.
It seemed like the craftsman who built this soul oracle tomb was an expert. Even at worst, he must have at least reached 9-mo.
Legend had it that 9-mo craftsmen were capable of creating machineries and puppets which even Transcendent Mortal experts would be unable to see through. From the looks of it, the legend was indeed true.
It was no wonder why Luo Zhu was so confident that no one other than him would be able to find this location. Given how obscure the location was, it would indeed be very difficult to find it.
The opening of the cliff face revealed an entrance. Luo Zhu took the lead and stepped in.
There were several unique mechanisms to keep out water inside the cavern, blocking the flow of water. As the crowd stepped in, they immediately realized that the area was well-ventilated. There wasn't the slightest feeling that the room was stuffy that came from lack of oxygen.
"This is the passageway to the soul oracle tomb. At the very end is the tomb itself!"
After everyone entered the passageway, the cliff face automatically closed by itself.
"Un!" Zhang Xuan nodded.
The crowd looked at their surroundings in interest.
This was a narrow passageway. Under the illumination from the Night Illumination Pearls, the group saw all kinds of inscriptions on the surface of the wall. Most of them were regarding the various rituals that soul oracles conducted. A sinister air loomed in the area.
"We should proceed slowly. There are a lot of fearsome traps placed along the passageway!"
Familiar with the environment within the ancient tomb, Luo Zhu reached forward and two child-sized puppets appeared before him.
He had probably prepared these puppets specially for this occasion.
Placing two spirit stones into them, the puppets headed straight down the passageway.
Geji! Geji!
Barely after the first puppet took three steps, a strong gust of wind blew, and with a crisp sound, the puppet burst into smithereens.
Everyone narrowed their eyes.
The puppet that Luo Zhu took was crafted using a unique material known for its sturdiness. Even a cultivator of Jin Conghai's caliber would find it hard to smash it in a single blow.
And yet, some unknown mechanism before them had caused it to be reduced to smithereens in a moment. If not for Luo Zhu warning everyone swiftly, that could have been the fate of one of them.
In an instant, cold sweat immediately drenched the back of everyone here.
As expected of one of the most feared occupations in the ancient era, the soul oracle tomb was indeed extraordinary.
If Zhang shi hadn't seen through Luo Zhu's possession and allowed the soul oracle to guide them through this area, their entire group would have most probably been wiped out before even reaching the soul oracle tomb.
Geji! Geji!
While everyone was still overwhelmed with shock, the second puppet advanced forward. However, barely after it took a few steps, just like the first puppet, it was smashed to smithereens as well.
"Within five steps, there are two death traps. I'll go on first and mark out the spot where you all should step on. Make sure to follow it closely, otherwise... I'll be unable to guarantee your safety!" Luo Zhu instructed gravely.
"Yes!" Knowing the importance of this issue, everyone nodded their heads.
Hu!
Luo Zhu proceeded forward carefully. However, as soon as he stepped forward, the whistling of the wind sounded and it shot past an area not too far away from him. From the looks of it, if one were to be struck by it, one wouldn't be too far from death even if one managed to survive that attack.
However, with a puppet to test out the path, they would be able to avoid the traps in the way.
Looking at the treacherous passageway, Hall Master Sai asked, "Is this... a formation?
"Given how danger was lying in wait throughout the passageway, could this be a Slaughter Formation?"
If that was the case, given Zhang shi's understanding of formations, they should've been able to break it and advance safely through.
"It isn't!" Zhang Xuan shook his head.
If it was a formation, he would have surely felt a disturbance in the spiritual energy in the air... But there clearly was none.
"The greatest fear of the soul oracles aren't humans but Soul Devouring Ants, and formations are ineffective on those creatures... Thus, it is unlikely for a soul oracle to incorporate a formation into their defensive mechanisms. If I'm not mistaken, these are mechanical traps!"
After a moment of contemplation, Zhang Xuan had finished his analysis.
The Soul Devouring Ants were the nemeses of soul oracles, so naturally, they had to prepare some traps to protect themselves. Soul Devouring Ants were capable of consuming the spiritual energy contained within a formation and forcefully halt it. Thus, mechanical traps were preferred as to formations.
The crowd nodded in agreement.
"But if those are all mechanical traps, this will prove to be troublesome. None of us here are adept in this field. If only we had a celestial designer here, we'd be really spared a lot of trouble!" Hall Master Sai frowned.
"Celestial designer?" Sun Qiang and the others looked over.
Zhang Xuan had never mentioned such an occupation so they had never heard of it.
"Indeed. Celestial designer, also known as master mechanic, is an occupation of the Lower Nine Paths. They are skilled in designing these mechanical systems. Even though their creation might seem humble on the surface, they usually incorporate sword qi and battle techniques that could overpower even experts when they are activated."
Hall Master Sai explained, "This occupation also has their own organization, the Celestial Designer Institute. They specialize in designing the world's most exquisite weapon and traps. However... I've only read about this occupation in books. There isn't a branch in the Myriad Kingdom Alliance, and it's said that only an empire of Huanyu Empire's tier is qualified to build a branch."
"The artifacts designed by celestial designers are extremely complex and exquisite. It would indeed be difficult to bypass these traps without understanding the logic behind them!"
Zhang Xuan nodded his head as a frown slowly appeared on his forehead.
He had seen the complexity of the Celestial Designer Mechanical Container himself. If not for the Library of Heaven's Path, it would be impossible for him to open it.
Even a single box could be designed so intricately. If a person of that occupation had assisted with the design of the traps in this passageway, the dangers that lurked in this passageway would be unimaginable.
If a celestial designer had assisted with the design of the traps in this passageway, the dangers that lurked in this passageway would be unimaginable.
Puhe!
Just as Zhang Xuan was deep in thought, he heard the sound of a sharp knife tearing through flesh. Lifting his gaze, he saw Luo Zhu hurriedly retreating with a reddened face. His arm seemed to have been sliced by something, and it was bleeding profusely.
"Are you alright?"
Jin Conghai and the others hurried forward to help him stop the bleeding.
"I'm alright!" Luo Zhu shook his head. "The traps in this passageway seem to have become even more complicated than before..."
"Even more complicated? How long is this passageway? How long did you take to reach the end?" Zhang Xuan asked.
"It is around three hundred meters. The previous time I was here, I advanced bit by bit using the puppets and it took me around four days to get to the other end!"
Luo Zhu frowned, "However, it seems like these traps change every single time one enters. My previous experience clearing the traps is completely useless now..."
"Four days?" Zhang Xuan was speechless.
To travel three hundred meters in four days, this passageway was indeed difficult.
"Indeed. But there's no other way around it. The sword qi contained within the traps possess the might of at least a Transcendent Mortal 4-dan pinnacle. If one were to accidentally come into contact with it, one will be torn into half in an instant!"
Luo Zhu shook his head.
"Transcendent Mortal 4-dan pinnacle sword qi?" The crowd was astonished.
When they saw the puppet being reduced to smithereens previously, they already had an idea that the sword qi emanated in the traps were fearsome. Even so, they didn't expect it to be so powerful.
Even a Transcendent Mortal 4-dan pinnacle expert would find it difficult to survive after being struck by such powerful sword qi.
Not to mention, it would be difficult for them to dodge the attacks in such a narrow passageway.
"Do we really have no other choice other than to advance bit by bit?"
Zhao Feiwu frowned.
"That's right! The trap mechanisms left behind by celestial designers are incomparably profound, and they are ever-changing. If one doesn't know the pattern behind the changes, it'll be difficult to clear the traps." Luo Zhu shook his head.
"It won't work even if we were to destroy the mechanical system in this passageway?" Zhang Xuan frowned.
Even formations, an intangible existence, could be stopped with a kick. If they could find the switch to the traps or the center of operation of the system, shouldn't it be possible to shut down the traps?
"Destroy?"
Luo Zhu smiled bitterly, "How could it be that easy? Just like a water wheel, the artifacts left behind by celestial designers are constantly on the move. Even if one had the blueprint on hand, if one doesn't comprehend the logic behind it, it will be futile. If its designs could be overcome so easily, it wouldn't be such a feared occupation!"
Mechanical systems and formations were similar in the sense that even if an amateur were to have the blueprint in hand, if they couldn't understand the workings of the system, they would still be unable to decipher it.
After all, mechanical systems were built to be continuously on the move. If one didn't understand the slightest bit of this occupation, one would be unable to get out of it alive, let alone, destroy it.
"Indeed. This is the reason why celestial designers are feared. They are capable of incorporating mechanical systems into artifacts, thus crafting tools capable of slaughtering experts easily. Furthermore, these artifacts don't need to be powered by spirit stones... If I'm not mistaken, the energy required for powering these traps comes from the waterfall above. As such, unlike formations, compasses won't work. If one doesn't understand the logic behind the traps, one would never be able to overcome the traps!"
Hall Master Sai nodded in agreement.
Compasses were capable of determining the flow of spiritual energy to detect the weak points of a formation. However... mechanical traps weren't powered by spiritual energy but kinetic energy.
How were they supposed to decipher these traps?
Hearing the analyses of the duo, the complexion of the crowd turned gloomy. The excitement from before had vanished altogether.
Seeing that the morale is down, Zhang Xuan shook his head and said, "Even though compasses won't work, it doesn't mean that there are no other methods of deciphering the traps. Let me give it a try!"
After which, Zhang Xuan smiled faintly and gently touched the floor of the passageway with his palm.
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Chapter 503: Entering the Tomb
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97
"Be careful..."
Seeing that Zhang Xuan was touching the ground instead of studying the various logic governing the traps in the passageway, Luo Zhu felt faint-headed.
Do you really think that you can analyze the entire mechanical system just by touching the ground?
The traps designed by celestial designers were as complex and intricate as formations. There were innumerable types of mechanical system, and even for systems of the same type, there were countless variations.
Not to mention, the design of the system would also affect its operation as well.
Even a real celestial designer would have to take a long time analyzing the various properties of the mechanical system before being able to decipher it. No matter how skilled you are in the other occupations, it is impossible for you to apply the logic from those into this field.
"There's no need to panic. Allow me to rest for a moment first. After that, I'll continue testing out the traps with my puppets. Anyway, the one thing we aren't lacking is time. I've also brought sufficient water and rations so there's no need to worry!"
Seeing that the morale was down, Luo Zhu consoled with a smile.
In truth, his real occupation was a tomb raider, and he had already traversed such treacherous places innumerable times; he was used to it. However, the others were different. Having never encountered such a fearsome trap, it was natural for them to feel apprehensive.
"There's no way around it. We don't understand such traps at all so we'll be depending on you then." Jin Conghai nodded.
"Don't worry. Even though the complexity of the trap has increased, as long as I have sufficient time, I'm confident that I can still make it to the other end. You all just have to follow behind me..." Luo Zhu nodded.
Most experts or wealthy merchants would opt to hire a celestial designer to design their tombs for them, and so, he had already faced off with such traps many times throughout the years. Even though the trap had become more complicated, he didn't think that it would be a problem for him.
Confident, Luo Zhu was just about to make preparations and make another attempt when he saw that Zhang shi, who was done touching the ground, had stood up. The latter stretched his back before walking into the passageway.
"Zhang shi..."
Luo Zhu immediately narrowed his eyes in fear.
Despite having tested the area with his puppet beforehand, he was still nearly torn in half by some sword qi. Wasn't it suicidal to be charging in so recklessly?
Panicking, Luo Zhu was just about to pull Zhang shi out when the young man suddenly lifted his leg and kicked at the wall beside him.
Hong long!
An intense buzzing sound echoed throughout the cavern, and the crowd felt the ground beneath them shake.
"Alright, the traps have been disabled!"
After which, the calm voice of the young man echoed. Before the crowd could react, he began walking in with widened strides.
"The traps... have been disabled?"
Seeing how nothing was triggered despite Zhang Xuan's casual movements, Luo Zhu's expression made his frenzy apparent.
What was going on?
He had just tried it out for himself, and the trap in the passageway was clearly much stronger and complex from before. Even a person like him, who often hung out by the tombs, would find it hard to clear the entire passageway without half a month of effort. Yet, the other party managed to do it... with a single kick?
Are you for real?
This was a mechanical system designed by a celestial designer! Luo Zhu was already prepared to have several hundreds of his puppets destroyed, and yet, the other party, with a single kick...
Luo Zhu was on the verge of going mad.
He turned around to look at the crowd, only to see the others staring at him in bewilderment.
Didn't you just prattle on about how formidable this thing was? Why did Zhang shi manage to stop the entire thing with just a single kick?
"Let's go on..."
Luo Zhu felt stifled. However, given how Zhang shi was capable of even dealing with a possession, it wasn't entirely impossible for him to have comprehended the various skills of celestial designers as well. Consoling himself like that, he advanced through the passageway.
As expected, the traps in the passageway were truly disabled. Nothing was triggered as the group walked by.
Soon, reaching the very end, a vast hall appeared before them.
Upon seeing the hall, Luo Zhu said with a grim expression, "Previously, I was possessed as soon as I reached this point so I didn't dare go any further..."
Zhang Xuan scanned the hall.
Possessing a length and width of around twenty to thirty meters wide, it was reminiscent of an underground palace. At the very center of the hall were four huge ashen-green coffins. It was impossible to determine what material the coffins were made of, but they looked extremely heavy.
"Eye of Insight!"
Instead of rushing into the room, Zhang Xuan raised his eyebrows and scanned the room once more.
A moment later, he frowned.
He found that he couldn't peer into the contents of the coffin. Most probably, it was a creation beyond that of his current cultivation realm.
"I wonder if I can get any detail on the room from the ground!"
Even though the Eye of Insight was unable to provide him with any useful detail, Zhang Xuan didn't panic. Instead, he bent down and touched the ground.
Previously, recalling how he'd opened the Celestial Designer Mechanical Container, Zhang Xuan thought that since the traps operated by a mechanical system as well, it should have a flaw. Thus, he gave it a try and to his delight, it really worked.
The Library of Heaven's Path immediately reflected the name and flaws of the traps.
After looking through, Zhang Xuan came to a realization.
These traps were actually similar to formations, they had a life gate and death gate as well. Otherwise, how was anyone supposed to bypass these traps?
Not only so, there was also a core as well. As long as one found the center of operations, no matter how powerful a trap was, it could be made redundant.
After all, without energy, no matter how powerful a machine was, it would be useless.
This was the reason why Zhang Xuan could stop the entire mechanical system with a kick and lead everyone in.
Hu!
A book appeared in Zhang Xuan's mind.
"Greenash Rock, naturally formed in the depths of the ground. It is resilient..."
With just a brief glance, Zhang Xuan nearly spurted blood.
He thought that even though the Eye of Insight was ineffective, he should be able to find out something regarding the coffin or the hall via the Library of Heaven's Path. Never in his dreams did he expect for an analysis on the rock he just touched to appear instead.
'The passageway constitutes the entirety of the mechanical system, that's why information regarding the traps was reflected when I touched it. On the other hand, this is just a normal tile so it reflects exactly what I touched. This is similar to the case when I touched the bookshelf back then!'
Dismal, Zhang Xuan soon understood.
Back then, when Zhang Xuan attempted to gather all of the books on a bookshelf in a single go by touching the bookshelf, a similar occurrence happened.
It seemed like the Library of Heaven's Path classified matters by an entirety. Otherwise, it would only reflect what Zhang Xuan came into direct physical contact with.
But thinking about it, if he were able to know the condition of the entire continent just by touching the floor, that would be a little ridiculous.
Seeing the serious expression on Zhang shi's face, Luo Zhu took the lead and explained, "There's no danger here. We can enter the hall!"
When he stepped into the hall, nothing particular occurred.
Thus, the group behind followed suit.
"These are the coffins housing the Soulless Metal Humanoids. The one that I took came from here!"
Walking up to the coffin, Luo Zhu pointed and spoke anxiously.
Back then, it was precisely when he opened the coffin and was about to take away the Soulless Metal Humanoid that he was possessed. As such, he already had a trauma regarding the matter, and thus, he didn't dare to step forward.
"Let me take a look!"
Nodding his head, Zhang Xuan walked forward.
As expected, one of the four coffins was open, and its interior was completely empty.
He touched the empty coffin.
Hu!
A book appeared in the Library of Heaven's Path.
"Grade-7 Metal Coffin, forged by 4-star Blacksmith Xu Zhe. It is used as a container to house a Soulless Metal Humanoid, and it won't decompose over time. Flaw No.1, it cannot be used to house a normal corpse..."
The introduction and flaws regarding the coffin were detailed in the book.
"Grade-7 Metal Coffin?" After reading through the details, Zhang Xuan was perplexed.
Based on the description in the Library of Heaven's Path, this coffin should only be used to store Soulless Metal Humanoids. It shouldn't contain any souls at all. If so, why would Luo Zhu have been possessed?
Thus, he turned to an unopened coffin and touched it.
It was also a Grade-7 Metal Coffin, and its purpose was the same as well—storing Soulless Metal Humanoid. There wasn't much of a difference from the first one.
Zhang Xuan went on to touch the others and they reflected the same conclusion as well.
Knowing that they were containers for Soulless Metal Humanoid, Zhang Xuan swiftly lost his interest.
The purpose of his journey was to obtain the inheritance of the soul oracles. The Soulless Metal Humanoids didn't mean much to him.
But in the end, these items were of great value. Previously, Zhang Xuan had managed to sell it for twenty thousand spirit stones. Even though he didn't need it, he could still earn substantial wealth from their sales.
Seeing as Zhang shi touched all four of the coffins, Luo Zhu asked anxiously, "Zhang shi, I was possessed here... Should we open the other coffins?"
The others were also awaiting Zhang Xuan's decision.
"Don't open them first!"
Even though there were no problems reflected on the books, Zhang Xuan couldn't guarantee that no mishap would occur when the coffins were opened.
It would still be fine if a soul of the level of the one who possessed Luo Zhu previously appeared, but if a powerful were to appear instead, Zhang Xuan could not say for sure whether his Heaven's Path zhenqi would be effective on the latter.
It was better to proceed carefully.
"Put the coffins directly into the storage ring. We'll open them after we get out!" Zhang Xuan said after a moment of contemplation.
"Alright!"
Sun Qiang had been waiting for these words. He hurried forward, stretched out his hand, and swept the four giant coffins into his storage ring.
These belong to the young master. No matter who you are, don't even dream of laying your hands on them...
"Cough cough!" Seeing how shameless Sun Qiang was behaving, Zhang Xuan's face reddened. He turned around, issued some instructions, before proceeding ahead.
"You all wait here first. I'll look around the area!"
The hall had an eerie appearance, and it felt desolate.
The walls were all made of the tough Greenash Rocks. It seemed like the builder really put a lot of effort into building this hall. Not only did he excavate the entire area, he even used the toughest material to reinforce its structure, ensuring its long-term durability.
Touching the walls around the room, Zhang Xuan didn't find any traps. Thus, he advanced forward.
The hall was linked to another narrow passageway.
Walking up to it, he bent down and touched the ground.
Hu!
A book appeared in the Library of Heaven's Path.
"It's just an ordinary passageway?"
The book recorded the details of the floor material reflected in the book, thus proving that there weren't any mechanical traps inside.
Heaving a sigh of relief, Zhang Xuan soon came to a realization.
Such traps were expensive. It was normal for traps to be laid at the entrance for fear of invaders, but setting them up in the interiors seemed a little ridiculous. Since the purpose of those traps was to prevent anyone to entering the tomb at all, it would make more sense to spend the money on reinforcing the traps in the entrance.
He turned around and shouted, "There is no danger here, come over!"
The group hurried over.
Zhang Xuan led the way forward.
The passageway wasn't long, extending on for only a distance of ten meters or so. At the end, another vast hall appeared before them.
It was much larger than the one before.
"Based on what I know, the first chamber is for the protectors of the soul oracle, the Soulless Metal Humanoids, while the second chamber is the main chamber prepared for the soul oracle himself. This should be where the souls of the soul oracles lies..."
Luo Zhu swallowed a mouthful of saliva.
"You mean that... we'll find the souls of the soul oracles here?" Zhang Xuan asked.
Luo Zhu nodded.
"Since this is the main chamber... I believe so!"
Upon hearing the other party's confirmation, Zhang Xuan raised his head, and with a glance, a deep frown suddenly appeared on his face.
"Th-this... What is going on?"
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Chapter 504: Second Acknowledgement of the Heavens
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97
Instead of a hall, what that appeared before them was a field of flora and fauna. A refreshing fragrance tickled their nose, and in the skies, they saw white clouds floating by. It was as though they had returned back to the mountains.
"Could this be an... Illusion Formation?"
Hall Master Sai and the others were taken aback.
How could there be plants growing in an underground chamber? Not to mention, white clouds and blue skies. Clearly, it was an illusion.
The only explanation for this bizarre sight was that it was an Illusion Formation.
"This isn't a formation..." Zhang Xuan shook his head.
As a formation master, he would surely be able to tell if it was one. However, there wasn't the slightest disturbance in the spiritual energy before him, and the sight before him felt incomparably real. It was as though one was traversing through space, and it felt indescribably bizarre.
"Is this a mechanical trap? No, that can't be. Mechanical traps aren't capable of producing such effects!"
In the end, mechanical traps operated based on logic. They weren't capable of producing these florae, fauna, and flowing water before them.
"Let me test the situation out with a puppet!"
Perplexed, Luo Zhu flicked his wrist and a puppet appeared. Then, the puppet slowly walked toward the field at the end of the passageway.
Hu!
As soon as it stepped out of the passageway, it immediately disappeared without a trace.
"This... What happened?"
Everyone leaped back in shock.
How could the puppet simply disappear all of the sudden? Even if a mechanical trap was activated, at least the fragments of the puppets should remain. To disappear as soon as it walked toward the end of the passageway... This was way too bizarre!"
"Could this be a... Teleportation Formation?"
Hall Master Sai's throat went dry.
Everyone turned to look at him doubtfully.
"The Teleportation Formation of the Myriad Kingdom Alliance is only capable of transferring words and information, and they are known as Communication Walls!"
Hall Master Sai said, with a trembling voice, "It's said that at grade-6, Teleportation Formation will gain the ability to transfer material objects such as food, money, equipment, and even artifacts. At grade-8, even lifeforms can be transported... In other words, even a human can leap through space."
"Transporting a human?" The crowd was astonished.
Zhang Xuan also widened his eyes in shock.
As a 4-star formation master, he had a deeper understanding of formations than Hall Master Sai. He thought that transporting information should already be the limit. To think that formations would be able to transport even a human.
How deep of an understanding of space must one possess to be capable of setting up a formation capable of transporting humans!
Given how the puppet abruptly disappeared... Could this really be a formation of that level?
If so, it was normal that they couldn't see or feel the puppet anymore.
As an Upper Nine Paths occupation, formation masters had a high requisite on one's cultivation. If one's cultivation didn't reach the required level, one would be disallowed from studying more profound knowledge. It was just like how even though Zhang Xuan was able to inscribe a grade-5 formation plate, he was only considered a quasi 4-star formation master.
A person who was capable of setting up a grade-8 formation definitely possessed cultivation beyond that of a Transcendent Mortal... To be able to get such a figure to set up a formation for him, how powerful must the owner of the tomb be?
Since Zhang Xuan was able to come to this conclusion, the others also realized the same as well. Their faces immediately paled.
If it was just a Transcendent Mortal 3-dan or 4-dan soul oracle, even if they were possessed, they would still possess a certain degree of self-preservation means. However, if the opponent they met were to be beyond that level, they wouldn't stand a chance at all.
"Zhang shi... Do we enter?"
The crowd turned to look at Zhang Xuan.
Zhang Xuan fell into deep contemplation.
If his conjecture was right, proceeding ahead would definitely put them in grave danger. He wasn't confident of holding his ground even with the Heaven's Path zhenqi.
It could be said that certain doom awaited them if they were to proceed forward.
But if they backed down now... How much longer would it take for Lu Chong to recover?
"For me, he was willing to even risk his life. What do I have to fear?"
Recalling how that young man stepped in front of him calmly to protect him, determination gleamed in Zhang Xuan's eyes.
Lu Chong was willing to give up his life for him.
As the other party's senior, if he were to back down in the face of danger, what rights did he have to be considered as the other party's teacher?
Flinging his hands back, Zhang Xuan instructed, "You all wait here, I'll go in alone... If I don't return in four hours, I'll have to trouble Hall Master Sai and Zhao gongzi to help my students and Sun Qiang get out!"
"Teacher, I'm not leaving! I want to follow you!" Zhao Ya stepped forward.
"We share the same thoughts! We'll follow you no matter where you go!"
Yuan Tao and the others declared resolutely.
If not for Zhang laoshi, they would still be ordinary students in Tianxuan Kingdom. However, at this moment, every single one of them was a Zhizun realm expert, each possessing the strength to lift a mountain.
Since their teacher was willing to put himself with danger to save Lu Chong, how could they, as his students, back down?
Zhang Xuan felt a surge of warmth. However, the situation before him was too bizarre. It was too dangerous to bring them over. After a moment of hesitation, Zhang Xuan shook his head and his complexion darkened, "Are you all going to disobey my orders? Stay here!"
"Teacher, we implore you to not chase us away. How can we possibly watch by the side as you put yourself into danger? Even if we were to survive this ordeal, we'd definitely be plagued by guilt in the future!" Zhao Ya spoke resolutely.
"Teacher, please don't chase us away! Even if it means disobeying your words, I'll go with you!" Wang Ying said.
She was usually the most indecisive one of the group, and yet, at this moment, the determination in her eyes was unwavering.
Knowing that his students weren't able to simply watch on by the side as he ventured through danger, Zhang Xuan eventually nodded his head after a long moment of contemplation. "Since you all have made up your minds, let's go together then!"
"The teacher for the students, and the students for the teacher. This is what a true relationship between a teacher and student should be!"
Watching this sight, Zhao Feiwu and the others felt touched.
Previously, they had been wondering why a person of Zhang shi's capability would choose to bring around a bunch of young and weak students along with him. However, at this moment, they realized that the relationship of a teacher and a student transcended far beyond the impartation of knowledge.
A teacher could brave through danger for their students, whereas a student could remain unmoved before danger for their teacher.
It was this self-sacrificial spirit that made the relationship between the two so noble!
Hong long!
At that moment, a powerful aura suddenly descended from the skies. A unique energy began gathering in the world. It was neither spiritual energy nor Origin Energy, but with a single whiff, one could feel their analytical ability growing stronger and their thought process becoming clearer.
This energy swiftly gathered around Zhang Xuan as though a torrent, refining his presence and disposition.
Narrowing her eyes, Zhao Feiwu suddenly thought of something and her lips trembled in disbelief.
"It's... Celestial Master Teacher!"
Jin Conghai was also taken aback.
"Celestial Master Teacher? H-how... is that possible?"
Celestial Master Teacher meant that even the heavens were acknowledging one's identity as a master teacher. Even if one didn't undergo the various examinations of the master teachers, one could still be acknowledged by the masses. Despite the long history of the continent, only Kong shi had ever succeeded in being acknowledged by the heavens. To think that this Zhang shi would manage to achieve the same as well...
Could this really be true?
"Indeed, it's really Celestial Master Teacher... Furthermore, it doesn't seem to be just 2-star!"
Hall Master Sai's face flushed red.
As the head of the only Appraiser Hall in the Myriad Kingdom Alliance, as well as a 4-star pinnacle appraiser, he had met with a lot of master teachers. However, he had never heard of a single one being acknowledged by the heavens.
The other party had said that he was a 2-star master teacher so even if the heavens were to acknowledge him, he should only be a 3-star Celestial Master Teacher at maximum. However, the overwhelming energy before him actually made him feel like submitting to the other party.
Without a doubt, the other party wasn't just a 2-star or 3-star master teacher. However, as for his exact rank, Hall Master Sai wasn't a master teacher and he had never seen a Celestial Master Teacher before so he couldn't make a clear gauge.
But regardless of his rank, to be acknowledged by the heavens itself was already sufficient to send a ripple of shock through the world.
"This..."
Contrary to the shock the others were going through, the current Zhang Xuan was a little dumbstruck.
Previously, when he agreed to Zhao Ya and the others' request, he actually wasn't too keen on doing so. However, considering that his students would never grow up if he were to protect them tightly beneath his wings, he decided to let go.
It was just like a seedling. If one were to use a wall to shield if from rain and storm, it would never grow tall.
Thus, he reluctantly agreed to it. However, he didn't expect this to induce another Celestial Master Teacher acknowledgement.
He had undergone such a situation before so even though the inflow of the energy made him a little dizzy, he knew that this was a good chance for him to raise his strength.
Thus, without any hesitation, he immediately sat down on the ground and focused his attention into absorbing the unique energy shrouding him.
Hong long!
With the inflow of this strength, his Soul Depth raised swiftly. His thought process gradually became swifter and clearer.
...
A meeting was taking place in the Myriad Kingdom Alliance's Master Teacher Pavilion.
"We are the hosts for the Master Teacher Tournament this time around. Make some preparations, we have to at least get a good placing..."
Seated at the center seat, Pavilion Master Kang surveyed the group before him.
Those within the room were all elders of the Master Teacher Pavilion. Su Fan and Ling Yuheng were also within the group.
The location for the Master Teacher Tournament wasn't fixed. The twenty-seven powers would take turns hosting the event, and it only happened that Myriad Kingdom City would be playing host this time around.
This time, they were going to be battling on their home ground. It would be truly embarrassing if their results were as poor as before.
"Yes!" The crowd nodded their heads.
"This time, our elders have nominated a total of six candidates. I have looked through the information you all have submitted and they are indeed young talents. However, there are only two slots for this tournament so a round of selection will have to be conducted..."
Pavilion Master Kang continued. However, before he could finish his words, his body suddenly froze.
The other elders also noticed something and they narrowed their eyes. They quickly turned their sights toward a single direction.
"Trembling of Myriad Tokens, Harmony of the Chimes... This is acknowledgement of a Celestial Master Teacher?"
After a long period of time, Pavilion Master Kang finally managed to utter with a hoarse voice.
"Even though it's an acknowledgement of Celestial Master Teacher and it has occurred in our guild... given how the remarkable geniuses of the other powers are gathered in Myriad Kingdom City at the moment, there is a possibility that one of them might be the one who triggered it!"
"Indeed. If they were to be acknowledged by the heavens in Myriad Kingdom City, the phenomenon would appear in our guild... Hurry up and find out which geniuses are in the city at the moment..."
"It seems like... the champion of this tournament will surely be that person!"
...
The faces of the elders paled, and they muttered to themselves.
Celestial Master Teacher was an existence acknowledged by the heavens itself. In the entire continent, only Kong shi had managed to achieve this feat. Regardless of which power the Celestial Master Teacher came from, there was no doubt that... he would be the champion in the Master Teacher Tournament!
"Could it be... him?"
Different from the reaction of the other elders, Su shi and Ling shi glanced at one another and a figure suddenly appeared in their mind.
But soon, they shook their heads.
He had just completed by 2-star master teacher examination, and he hadn't even reached Zhizun realm yet. How could he possibly be acknowledged by the heavens?
Thus... it couldn't be him!
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Chapter 505: Oasis of the Mirage Deity
Translator: StarveCleric Editor: Millman97
After a long period of time, Zhang Xuan finally finished absorbing the energy in his surroundings and stood up.
As expected of Celestial Master Teacher. Even though his cultivation realm remained the same, at the Prolonged Longevity realm pinnacle, his comprehension of cultivation and battle techniques had deepened.
With just this, his fighting prowess could be said to have raised by at least twofold.
If he could fight equally with a Transcendent Mortal 2-dan intermediate stage previously, he would be able to match up with an advanced stage expert now.
At the same time, his Soul Depth had also raised from 12.1 to 14.1.
Even though an increase of 2.0 was humble as compared to the effects of the Book of Heaven's Path, if he were to cultivate normally, this leap would require at least decades of effort.
In other words, this acknowledgement of Celestial Master Teacher had saved him at least decades of training for his Soul Depth!
Fearsome!
Also, his Eye of Insight and Impartation of Heaven's Will had also grown stronger. Using the Eye of Insight, he could now peer through existences two small cultivation tiers above him.
Meaning, he could easily see through the flaws of an Origin Energy realm intermediate stage cultivator already.
As for Impartation of Heaven's Will, his ability to induce trust in others had grown, and others would find it hard to refute his words.
He had to expend his Soul Depth to coax Song Chao previously but now, as long as he were to utilize the Impartation of Heaven's Will, the other party would feel inclined to trust his words automatically.
More importantly, by earning the acknowledge of the heavens, his Will of Mind had also progressed significantly in the Lucid Analytical realm.
As expected of Celestial Master Teacher. Its effects were truly immense to a master teacher.
"Even though there was no change in my cultivation, I can feel that I'm not too far from making a breakthrough!"
With a deeper understanding of cultivation, it wasn't too difficult for him to bypass the barriers to reaching Origin Energy realm.
After all, he had studied a few hundred Origin Energy realm secret manuals. Even though he hadn't compiled a flawless version of Heaven's Path Divine Art yet, he had a clear idea on the direction of his cultivation. As long as he had sufficient spirit stones, making a breakthrough wasn't too difficult.
"I should try to look at the field of grass before me once more with the Eye of Insight!"
Thinking that he might be see something new with his improved Eye of Insight, Zhang Xuan lifted his gaze.
"It isn't a formation or a mechanical trap!"
There was a huge disparity between what he could see before and what he was seeing now. The previous obscurity had become crystal clear to Zhang Xuan's eyes.
"Did Zhang shi notice something?"
The crowd turned their gazes over.
They had never seen a Celestial Master Teacher before, but as a legend of the Master Teacher Pavilion, they knew that it was anything but ordinary.
"It is a method used by soul oracles to beguile souls. In other words, what you all are seeing is fake, a mirage!" said Zhang Xuan, frowning.
"But if it's a mirage, why did the puppet suddenly disappear?" Luo Zhu found the matter hard to believe.
At most, a mirage should only be able to confuse one. This explanation couldn't account for the disappearance of the puppet.
The puppet had disappeared right after walking through the passageway. It was clear that some powerful formation had transported it away.
"Soul oracles have the ability to beguile all lifeforms possessing souls. They can make us all see the same image, and thus, inducing us to believe that what that lay before us is real. However... puppets are different. Puppets have no soul and consciousness, and as such, they can't be beguiled... Thus, it's not that the puppet disappeared but that it has stepped through the passageway. Since it is unable to enter the mirage, naturally, we can't see it," Zhang Xuan explained.
Soul oracles could beguile lifeforms possessing souls and muddle their ability to distinguish truth from false. However, puppets were different. Possessing no consciousness, they couldn't be beguiled and naturally, they would step right through the mirage.
"If it's true... then could this be the soul oracle's... [Oasis of the Mirage Deity]?"
Suddenly recalling something, Luo Zhu's face paled and he nearly fell to the ground.
"Oasis of the Mirage Deity?"
Everyone was baffled. Even the knowledgeable Hall Master Sai was confused.
"Oasis of the Mirage Deity is a skill unique to soul oracles. They are capable of using their soul energy to create an incomparably realistic sight that subconsciously draws one in, similar to the oasis in the desert. The moment one steps into the mirage, one's soul will be forcefully torn from one's body and come under the control of the soul oracle..."
Luo Zhu trembled as he explained.
"One's soul will be forcefully torn from one's body?"
Everyone was shocked.
The greatest weakness of the soul oracles was their physical body. Once one lost this advantage over them, wouldn't one be powerless to their whims?
"Indeed. If we had entered just now, our souls would be torn from our body. Even if we managed to survive... We would be as good as dead!"
Cold sweat seeped down Luo Zhu's head.
The faces of the others also paled.
It was fortunate that they didn't charge ahead upon realizing the peculiarity of the matter. If they had really rushed over, they would have died for nothing.
As expected of a soul oracle. Even their means were hard to guard against.
"Just that... one has to be at least 6-star to be capable of utilizing the Oasis of the Mirage Deity. Could this be... the tomb of a 6-star soul oracle?" Luo Zhu asked doubtfully.
Oasis of the Mirage Deity wasn't a skill that just any soul oracle could utilize. Only upon reaching 6-star would one be able to set it up.
Just like master teachers and other Upper Nine Paths occupation, the techniques of the soul oracles also had a requisite on one's cultivation... As such, the ranking of a soul oracle was also linked to his cultivation realm.
A 6-star soul oracle would possess a cultivation realm at the zenith of the Transcendent Mortal realm!
Even if it was lacking a physical body, it wasn't an opponent that they could face.
"I think that it would be best if we leave right now!" Hall Master Sai's eyebrows leaped in unease.
Even though he was interested in seeing the tomb of a soul oracle and view the various artifacts contained within... he didn't have the courage to disturb the tomb of a former 6-star soul oracle.
Jin Conghai clenched his fists tightly and said, "Indeed. It's best for us to not get involved with an expert of this level..."
The more knowledgeable one was, the more one understood one's own ignorance. Similarly, the higher one's cultivation realm was, the more they understood how powerful the top-notch experts were.
Understanding the irreconcilable gap between them and a person who once stood at the zenith of Transcendent Mortals, they didn't dare to proceed any further.
They knew that with their force, they would never be able to deal with a 6-star soul oracle, no matter how many years he had been dead for.
"Leave? That's a good idea..."
Lifting his head, Zhang Xuan smiled bitterly, "But it's already too late..."
"Hee hee hee!"
At that moment, everyone suddenly felt a chill and a sinister laughter echoed in the passageway.
"To think that my Oasis of the Mirage Deity would be seen through so easily. Not bad, it seems that quite a few bodies have come this time!"
The voice was bizarrely shrill, and it seemed to echo straight within the depths of one's soul, leaving one feeling unnerved.
Huala!
In an instant, the flowers, clouds, and blue sky before them disappeared, and a huge, empty hall appeared in its place.
In the large hall, there was only a single coffin placed at a distance forty to fifty meters away from the crowd. It was hard to tell how large it was from this distance, but from the looks of it, it was significantly bigger and heavier than the other four coffins in the first chamber.
"You wish to possess us?" Zhang Xuan narrowed his eyes.
Entering the Lucid Analytical realm, Zhang Xuan felt no anxiety, fear, or any negative emotions.
"After such a long sleep, since someone dared to stumble into my tomb, of course I should claim their bodies for my own use!" The voice chuckled.
As the other party spoke, Zhang Xuan scanned his surroundings with his Eye of Insight
Regardless of how powerful the other party was, he had already been dead for innumerable years. Given how he would rather resort to using a mirage than deal with them personally, it could only mean that... he wasn't as powerful as they thought he was.
As long as Zhang Xuan found his hiding spot, there might be a chance to turn the situation around.
However, to his disappointment, he couldn't find any trace of the other party at all.
"Don't waste your effort. If I don't want to appear, do you think that you can find me with your mediocre skills?" Seemingly noticing Zhang Xuan's intentions, the voice sounded once more.
Zhang Xuan fell silent.
The voice was transmitted straight into their soul, making it impossible to trace him via sound. It would indeed be difficult to find him so long as he wished to remain hidden.
Turning around to glance at Jin Conghai and Hall Master Sai, the duo also shook their heads.
It seemed like the two of them had the same idea in mind as well.
Just as Zhang Xuan was racking his brain for a solution, Jin Conghai's voice sounded.
"Zhang shi, I'll try to stall for time. You should take the chance to leave with gongzi and the others!"
Turning his head, he saw that Jin Conghai's eyes were filled with the determination of a soldier ready to meet his demise.
"You have an idea in mind?" Zhang Xuan sent a telepathic message.
"I don't. However, I do have a few poisons that work on souls so it might be effective against him!" Jin Conghai replied grimly.
The effects on poison weren't just limited to the physical body. Some of the more formidable poison could dissipate souls as well.
Taking Zhang Xuan's Innate Fetal Poison for example, it was planted in him while he was still a fetus. Given the nearly absolute nature of the poison, it was, in a sense, more fearsome than a soul-dissipating poison.
"You wish to poison me? Hahaha, you should try to find me first!"
In the midst of the discussion of the duo, the voice sounded once more.
"You can listen to telepathic messages?" Zhang Xuan widened his eyes in astonishment.
They had communicated previously using telepathy, and only the two of them should know of the content of their words. Even Hall Master Sai, who was standing by the side, was completely oblivious to their interaction. Yet, this fellow actually could tell that Jin Conghai intended to poison him...
That was way too fearsome!
"Hah, it isn't just your telepathic message. Via your souls, I can even tell what you all are thinking!"
Harrumphing coldly, the voice continued, "I advise you all not to make any futile struggles. Even though there is no danger lying in wait in the passageway, it can be locked down. While you all were beguiled by the Oasis of the Mirage Deity, I locked down the area. It's too late for you to be thinking of leaving!"
Hearing those words, everyone turned their heads around and their faces immediately paled.
Just as the other party had said, the passageway behind had been sealed tightly by a stone wall.
"Let me give it a try!"
With an awful complexion, Jin Conghai gathered his strength and struck the stone wall heavily.
Hong long!
There was a massive tremor. However, the stone wall seemed to have been protected by something powerful. Even the strength of a Transcendent Mortal 4-dan was unable to move it, needless to say, shatter it.
"Let me give it a try as well!"
Stepping forward, Hall Master Sai took out a saber and slashed the stone wall several times. However, just like Jin Conghai, he didn't leave the slightest damage on the wall.
"This is the [Dragon Severing Lock] set up by a 6-star celestial designer. Only those who harness the strength of a Transcendent Mortal 9-dan cultivator can break it. You only have two fates before you. You will either meet your death here, or you will end up serving as my body..."
The voice chuckled.
"Dragon Severing Lock?"
Everyone's complexion became extremely awful.
Advancing and retreating weren't an option for them. Were they really going to... die like that?