Chapter 1198-1204 (8.5k+ words)

In a certain sense, the Xuanhuang Realm has become what it is now, and Chen Tianhai bears a significant portion of the responsibility.

Because it was he who arbitrarily activated the Alchemy Stone Mother and carried out over a hundred billion iterations, allowing the transmission method to glimpse the only possibility of victory.

The fall of the ten major immortal sects and the six longevity experts makes Chen Tianhai an outright criminal!

The numerous iterations of the Alchemy Stone Mother cannot be concealed. When Master Star Extreme Daoist returned and discovered the dreadful consequences, likely caused by Chen Tianhai's traitorous actions, he was furious. He intended to execute Chen Tianhai on the spot to appease the anger of the world.

However, after careful consideration, Star Extreme Daoist refrained from acting.

One reason is the deep bond between master and disciple, akin to father and son; Star Extreme Daoist ultimately softened.

The second reason is that if this news were to spread, it would undoubtedly lead to Taiyan Sect becoming a target of public outrage, possibly even being expelled from the Xuanhuang Realm. After all, traitors are always more detestable than enemies.

Yet, the tragic death of former friends and the intense self-condemnation in Star Extreme Daoist's heart made it impossible for him to pretend that nothing had happened.

Thus, the only option was to strip Chen Tianhai of his position as the first heir, throw him into the Taiyan Sect's grand prison, and perpetually suppress him. Externally, it was announced that Chen Tianhai had defected.

Chen Tianhai had no idea how long he had been in the lightless prison.

When he was released, it was a time of calamity for Taiyan Sect, facing a life-and-death crisis.

The world was in chaos, and the once renowned ten major immortal sects were too preoccupied to care.

Due to the ability of Taiyan Sect disciples to continuously run complex iterations using the Alchemy Stone, they hadn't fallen into extreme disorder like other immortal sects.

However, they had reached their limits.

Not only the Alchemy Stones within the bodies of various cultivators but even the Alchemy Stone Mother itself, due to the sudden appearance of "Extreme Variables," had overturned everything from the past and rapidly started reiterating. In the pursuit of a slim chance of survival for Taiyan Sect, the computational power had almost been squeezed dry. Before Master Star Extreme Daoist ran out of energy, he released Chen Tianhai.

And he pointed out a path for him.

Abandon the physical body, let go of the information.

"Misfortune and fortune are intertwined. Although you committed a grave mistake back then, you also discerned the details of the transmission method because of it."

"Now that the transmission method has been lured away by our last resort, temporarily leaving the Xuanhuang Realm, we've preserved our strength and gained a momentary breathing space."

"Otherwise, our immortal sects' heritage would probably be lost!"

Before he could fully explain his last words, Star Extreme Daoist had already fallen.

Before the catastrophe of the Forbidden Dao completely enveloped Taiyan Sect, Chen Tianhai had completed the action of integrating the entire Taiyan Sect into the Alchemy Stone Mother.

Fortunately, before his death, Master Star Extreme Daoist had eliminated all opposing forces within the sect.

Otherwise, Chen Tianhai wouldn't have held on until that moment.

As every member within the sect could experience and utilize the almost infinite computational power of the Alchemy Stone Mother, Chen Tianhai knew that his master's decision was correct.

Reintegrating the divided Alchemy Stones into the body and mixing the intentions of over a thousand cultivators from Taiyan Sect, the Alchemy Stone Mother underwent a peculiar and extraordinary change.

It gained its own consciousness.

A consciousness belonging to the collective of Taiyan Sect.

During the thousands of years in seclusion in the Taixuan Realm, Chen Tianhai reflected on his past and reevaluated the actions he had taken back then.

At that time, he often felt uneasy and suspected that he had fallen for some hidden trick of the transmission method.

However, whether it was the sect's prohibition artifacts, Master, or other powerful beings in the sect like Tai Shang and Tian Jian, none found any fault in him.

Chen Tianhai could only assume that it was his own simple-minded demons at play.

"The transmission method is indeed elusive and hard to guard against."

"Unfortunately, Master did not reveal its details before ascending to immortality. The other knowledgeable individuals in the sect also disappeared long ago. However, after all these years, I've deduced a rough idea..."

As Chen Tianhai listened to Sun Erlang recount his simulated experiences, his thoughts surged.

"By the way, Senior, the cultivation techniques I learned in the simulated world..."

"Are indeed real," Chen Tianhai said indifferently.

"But you'd better not practice and use them in reality. Otherwise, you might attract the pursuit of the Guardian Hall of the Ten Thousand Immortals Alliance." Chen Tianhai added.

"The Guardian Hall of the Ten Thousand Immortals Alliance..." Sun Erlang murmured softly, but there was no fear in his eyes.

"Alright, young lad, since you've gained a lot, please go back. Don't keep your master waiting for too long," Chen Tianhai issued the dismissal order.

"Yi Shu will accompany you to the entrance of the Great Awakening Small World."

As soon as the words fell, Sun Erlang felt a momentary blur before realizing he was now outside the blue transparent structure.

Yi Shu stood by with a smile, seemingly waiting for a while.

"Hmm?" Sun Erlang immediately noticed that Yi Shu was different from before.

Even compared to all the other cultivators within Taiyan Sect, he was unique.

No longer a cold, completely uniform shared aura, but a vivid, lively individual vitality.

"Thanks to Young Lad, I temporarily have a real body again and can go out for a while." Yi Shu smiled, explaining the current situation of Taiyan Sect to Sun Erlang.

"Information is indestructible..." After hundreds of years of experience in the simulated world, Sun Erlang appeared much steadier.

But he was still astonished by the fantastical ideas of Taiyan Sect.

"Young Lad, don't be surprised. If you truly experience it like us, you'll know that whether you have a physical body or not, there isn't much difference. In fact, a real body can be quite a burden," Yi Shu said with a smile.

"But occasional changes can be nice."

Yi Shu followed Sun Erlang and left the Taixuan Realm, heading straight for the entrance to the Misty Cloud Sea and the Great Awakening Small World.

Obviously, Taiyan Sect was not unfamiliar with the location of the Great Awakening Small World.

However, after passing through the Immortal Extinction Grand Array, all they saw was a vast void with no sign of any small world. Yi Shu finally showed a hint of surprise.

Sun Erlang was first puzzled, then as if memories from a hundred years ago finally resurfaced.

He awkwardly said, "Senior, please wait. The Grand Opening of the Holy Dynasty is currently adrift in the void. I don't know where it is right now..."

"Let me inquire."

After a moment, a golden light suddenly came from the darkness and instantly arrived in front of the two.

"Greetings, Senior Baihua!" Sun Erlang recognized the person and respectfully bowed.

Master Baihua Daoist scanned Yi Shu with a glance and didn't say much.

"Follow me."

Luminous golden light enveloped the two, and the surrounding void seemed to twist, emitting a strange brilliance.

When the golden light dispersed, they had already returned to the Grand Opening of the Holy Dynasty.

"Senior Baihua, it seems your cultivation has improved significantly?"

After a hundred years of simulated experience, Sun Erlang was no longer the same. He could clearly see the changes that had occurred in Baihua Daoist during his absence.

He couldn't help but feel a sense of awe.

Meanwhile, Yi Shu was keenly observing the sky, where five interlinked and interconnected rings, along with six bright stars surrounding the rings, caught his interest.

"Senior Baihua has moved two more blessed lands. Truly hardworking. These new blessed lands seem even larger than before. No wonder I feel that the Grand Opening is moving through the void much faster now." Sun Erlang thought to himself.

"The Grand Opening of the Holy Dynasty does live up to its reputation," Yi Shu sensed various powers of the small worlds surrounding him and sincerely commented.

"I think, in no more than fifty years, such earth-shaking changes have occurred in a mere mortal world. I am genuinely curious about your master." Baihua Daoist inexplicably glanced at Yi Shu.

However, he didn't say anything, just gave a cold snort.

After leading the two to the Holy Emperor's throne, Baihua Daoist left directly.

Looking at the majestic figure seated above, Sun Erlang felt a tremor in his heart.

He had thought that after experiencing so many lifelike scenarios in the simulated world and seeing the supremely powerful cultivators of the Ten Immortal Sects, he would be more composed when facing his master.

But now, Sun Erlang knew he was wrong.

Facing a Transcendent Realm expert, what Sun Erlang felt was the pressure originating from the realm difference, the dominance of the strong over the weak.

However, facing his master, the Faceless Holy Emperor, the reason Sun Erlang's body, mind, and even his soul couldn't stop trembling was because of the mysterious and unfathomable nature of the Faceless Holy Emperor, and...

It was as if advanced beings naturally looked down upon lower life forms.

"Master, I'm back." Sun Erlang knelt on one knee, as always.

Yi Shu just made a slight gesture with his hand.

"Welcome back. It seems you've gained quite a lot on this trip," the voice of the Faceless Holy Emperor, Li Ping, echoed in the vast and towering Holy Emperor's seat.

Sun Erlang meticulously recounted his experiences.

After listening to Sun Erlang's report, Li Ping turned to Yi Shu and said, "Since Taiyan Sect is so polite, we shouldn't be neglectful either. During this time, you'll lead him to tour around the Holy Dynasty."

"No restrictions, as long as he wants to go, take him there."

Sun Erlang was slightly stunned, then hastily said, "Disciple understands."

"Go then."

There was no intention of engaging with Yi Shu in conversation.

Although Yi Shu was an incarnation of Taiyan Sect's collective consciousness, he also had his own individual consciousness and temperament.

He tilted his head slightly, looking at the Faceless Holy Emperor seated above, and once again made a gesture with his hand.

Until he left the Holy Emperor's seat, the Holy Emperor didn't say a word.

"A picture is worth a thousand words. After Senior takes a stroll, you'll naturally have answers in your heart." To prevent any awkwardness, Sun Erlang quickly explained.

"Alright, let me see what's so special about this place." Yi Shu responded with a smile.

However, the smile seemed somewhat different from before.

When he saw that almost everyone in the Grand Opening of the Holy Dynasty was practicing the same technique, Yi Shu's eyes showed a hint of surprise.

When he observed the scattered Immortal Spirit Towers releasing spiritual energy to the outside at all times, Yi Shu's smile gradually disappeared.

When he noticed the [Heaven and Earth Myriad Spirits Grand Array], connecting the Grand Opening of the Holy Dynasty with other small worlds, Yi Shu's expression became increasingly puzzled.

"Young Lad, do you know..."

Yi Shu stopped himself before finishing his sentence.

Sun Erlang thought Yi Shu was astonished by the scenery of the Holy Dynasty. Seeing that he didn't say more, he didn't ask further.

Next, Sun Erlang took Yi Shu to visit some crucial places in the Holy Dynasty.

For example, Wang Xuanba's exotic beast cultivation base and the production site of the Sky Patrol Arrows.

As they walked, Yi Shu became more silent.

There were occasional flashes of deep confusion and doubt in his eyes.

Seeing the expressions of the other party, Sun Erlang, who had been amazed within Taiyan Sect before, couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction and secret pride.

"Senior Yi, is there anything else you'd like to see?"

Yi Shu remained silent for a moment. His gaze looked into the distance, as if he wanted to take in every aspect of this magical small world.

"If you hadn't mentioned the plan to counterattack the Xuanhuang Realm, I would almost think this place is one of the hidden secrets of the Myriad Immortals Alliance." After a long time, Yi Shu suddenly spoke.

"Besides the number of cultivators and the lack of top-tier experts, you do have the qualifications to challenge the Myriad Immortals Alliance."

"However, based on what I've seen so far, it's not enough for Taiyan Sect to form an alliance with us, the Taiyan Sect." Yi Shu concluded.

"Young Lad, the waters of the Myriad Immortals Alliance are much deeper than they appear to you." Yi Shu hinted at something.

Sun Erlang didn't feel dissatisfied with Yi Shu's response. Instead, he nodded thoughtfully.

After some consideration, Sun Erlang eventually took Yi Shu to the underground space beneath the Holy Emperor's throne, where Yin Shangren resided.

However, Yin Shangren himself was not present.

But just by looking at the hundreds of children practicing here, who were young but already at the Foundation Establishment stage, Yi Shu seemed a bit astonished for the first time.

"This..." With his insight, Yi Shu instantly noticed the uniqueness of these Foundation Establishment children.

"How is this possible?"

In that instant, in the Taiyan Sect in the distant Taixuan Realm, everyone from the top to the bottom directed their gazes toward the Grand Opening of the Small World.

Even the Dao Stone emitting a blue light seemed to have a brief pause.

"Not long ago, a young man advanced beyond the [Foundation Establishment] stage, achieving the creation of a Foundation Establishment Golden Core." Sun Erlang said softly.

"Foundation Establishment?" After hearing this term, Yi Shu's entire being seemed to freeze.

It wasn't an adjective; his thoughts had genuinely stagnated.

Sun Erlang, with the Dao Stone, instantly recognized this as the manifestation of the Dao Stone's computational power reaching its peak.

"It's impossible!"

After a long time, Yi Shu blurted out.

Here, the children who were contemplating and practicing cast their gazes toward Yi Shu.

There was a hint of displeasure in their eyes.

Because, under Yin Shangren's guidance, the word "impossible" had always been what they most resisted.

Yi Shu realized his loss of composure and coughed lightly to cover it up.

He walked slowly to one of the beautifully carved young girls, observing her carefully.

The more he looked, the more surprised he became.

Sun Erlang saw that Yi Shu's hands were involuntarily clenched.

"Beyond variables? Beyond variables?"

"No, this is not beyond variables; this is..."

Yi Shu suddenly raised his head, seemingly locking eyes with the Faceless Holy Emperor seated on the Holy Emperor's throne.

"The Transcendent One of the Xuanhuang Realm?!"

Chapter 1200: The Tilt of the Unattended Heaven

Many years ago, when Yi Shu first learned about the theory of the Cataclysmic Crossing Sect, he, like most Taiyan Sect cultivators, dismissed it outright.

Facing calamity, they chose not to actively seek a solution but rather acted like turtles, placing their hopes on some elusive person who might counter the calamity. This was completely baseless, unpredictable variables.

However, as fellow Ten Dao Sects and disciples of the Great Mage of Heaven in the ancient times, the inheritance of the Cataclysmic Crossing Sect had appeared during the primordial era. Its ability to endure for so many years indicated that it indeed possessed some special principles.

Yet, outsiders couldn't fathom the mysteries of the Cataclysmic Crossing Sect.

Today, when Yi Shu arrived at the Grand Opening of the Small World that seemed to have suddenly emerged from the cracks in the rocks, witnessing various technologies comparable to the top levels of the Myriad Immortals Alliance and a new cultivation method completely different from the current practices, capable of thoroughly overturning the foundation laid by the Primordial Daoist in the Xuanhuang Realm.

In an instant, Yi Shu couldn't help but recall the words of the Cataclysmic Crossing Sect from back then.

At that time, the great calamity loomed. The core members of the Ten Dao Sects gathered to discuss possible countermeasures.

Each sect expressed their opinions, but the Cataclysmic Crossing Sect's attitude was extremely negative.

"Ladies and gentlemen, they say 'in calamity, no escape.' If one can avoid it through a struggle, then what kind of calamity is it?" The master of the Cataclysmic Crossing Sect, Lu Chengheng, observed the nose and observed the heart, looking indifferent.

"Is this the reason your Cataclysmic Crossing Sect places those 'World-Observer God Eyes' everywhere?" The notoriously irritable Lord of the Undying Prison, Xiahou Yan, retorted on the spot with an unfriendly expression.

"Xiahou, you don't understand. This is the method necessary to wait for the 'Transcendent One of the Xuanhuang' to appear." Lu Chengheng said indifferently.

"The nonsense 'Transcendent One of the Xuanhuang,' in the face of calamity, all beings are destroyed. If everyone dies, where can this savior come from?" Xiahou almost wanted to curse out loud.

"Are you questioning the Grand Mage's inheritance?" Lu Chengheng silenced Xiahou Yan with just one sentence.

"There are still you all." Lu Chengheng smiled, then said meaningfully, "The Xuanhuang Realm is not so easily destroyed. If there's any cultivation realm in this starry sea that can survive to the end, it must be our Xuanhuang."

The leaders of the Ten Sects had no retort upon hearing this.

After a brief silence, perhaps to appease everyone, Lu Chengheng gave a brief explanation, "The talk of the Cataclysmic Crossing, is not baseless. The cycle of calamity and creation is a part of the natural order. Even the great calamity in the immortal realm might not be beyond the expectations of the true immortals."

"All of you are restless, just watch how the Grand Mage handles it. Is there any impact on Him?"

The Supreme Sect Leader, Xuan Ji, who had been silent, finally spoke, "The Grand Mage participates in the creation of nature. Even in the Immortal Ruins, He can walk as if on level ground. The disasters that lead to the destruction of the Xuanhuang Realm are of no concern to Him. We are different. Lu Brother, if you choose to evade, I won't stop you. But in facing calamity, you cannot completely withdraw your support."

Looking at the unanimous gazes of the crowd, Lu Chengheng finally nodded and made a compromise.

However, Lu Chengheng's last sentence made everyone present silent again.

"Someday, you will know that our Cataclysmic Crossing Sect was right."

At this moment, spanning thousands of years, the collective consciousness of the Taiyan Sect, the body of Yi Shu, suddenly recalled Lu Chengheng's words.

After a superficial understanding of the principles of "Foundation Establishment Based on Myself," the Dao Stone Mother incorporated this variable into the extrapolation of the future of the Xuanhuang Realm.

The originally clear future became blurred as if encountering a chaotic storm.

Even with the now almost divine computational power of the Dao Stone Mother, there was a sense of confusion for a while.

In fact, the Taiyan Sect had tried to extrapolate the emergence of a new cultivation method that could subvert the Primordial Daoist system.

But...

Creating something out of nothing and extrapolating the future based on existing data were not the same thing.

The Dao Stone Mother only judged that there was indeed such a possibility. However, the probability was too small.

Even compared to the probability of the Primordial Daoist surviving the siege in the Longevity Realm back then, this probability was even smaller.

In addition to the difficulty of creating a new cultivation method itself, more importantly, it was the pervasive influence of the Primordial Daoist on the Xuanhuang Realm.

Just like cultivators gradually forgetting the calamity of the Xuanhuang Realm, incessantly neglecting the terrain changes that had been happening for thousands of years in the Xuanhuang Realm.

Extrapolating a new cultivation method was not only the ultimate manifestation of one's own creativity.

It was also a struggle against the influence of the Primordial Daoist. Therefore, in the extrapolation carried out by the Dao Stone Mother, the probability of the birth of the new cultivation method naturally approached zero.

However, something far beyond the extrapolation possibilities happened just like that.

In a secluded corner of the Xuanhuang Realm, floating in the void and still unknown to anyone, a recently emerged force.

The new cultivation method not only quietly appeared but had even developed to the Golden Core stage!

This truly stunned the Dao Stone Mother's extrapolation, causing a momentary hesitation.

Because based on all currently known factors, the reason for the emergence of the new cultivation method at this particular time couldn't be found.

It could only be explained by the Xuanhuang Transcendent, an entity beyond common sense and not within the variables.

Privately, the Ten Sects had also discussed the Xuanhuang Transcendent.

They arrived at an almost unanimous conclusion: if there was indeed such a Transcendent, it was either from outside the Xuanhuang Realm or the reincarnation of a powerful being.

A local cultivator growing up on their own, trying to resist a catastrophe...

It was simply impossible.

Even if they were a genius, it wouldn't work.

The environment of the Xuanhuang Realm had already ceased to create a foundation capable of resisting the influence of the Primordial Daoist.

"Who exactly is this Grand Opening Faceless Holy Emperor?"

At this moment, Yi Shu, or rather, the entire Taiyan Sect, had completely lost its disdain.

Instead, they regarded the Grand Opening of the Small World as an equal force, even one that surpassed their own status.

Also, the possibility of truly forming an alliance with the Grand Opening of the Small World.

As one of the former rulers of the Xuanhuang Realm, compressed to only exist in the Taiyan Small World by the Primordial Daoist's Myriad Immortals Alliance, it was impossible for the Taiyan Sect not to harbor resentment. Even though they no longer needed territory and resources, the resentment of having what they once possessed stripped away lingered like a nightmare in the Taiyan Sect's consciousness.

"What is the origin of this Grand Opening Faceless Holy Emperor?"

At this moment, Yi Shu, or rather, the entire Taiyan Sect, had completely lost its disdain.

Instead, they regarded the Grand Opening of the Small World as an equal force, even one that surpassed their own status.

Also, the possibility of truly forming an alliance with the Grand Opening of the Small World.

As one of the former rulers of the Xuanhuang Realm, compressed to only exist in the Taiyan Small World by the Primordial Daoist's Myriad Immortals Alliance, it was impossible for the Taiyan Sect not to harbor resentment. Even though they no longer needed territory and resources, the resentment of having what they once possessed stripped away lingered like a nightmare in the Taiyan Sect's consciousness.

"The former Great Dao, Tai Supreme, and other sects, although seemingly in opposition to the Myriad Immortals Alliance, have long been colluding with and essentially becoming henchmen of the Primordial Dao."

"But presumably, like us, they have not completely surrendered. What's lacking is just an opportunity."

The emergence of the Grand Opening of the Small World, especially the appearance of the new cultivation method, gave the Taiyan Sect a glimpse of this glimmer of hope.

However, being a sect that had survived from ancient calamities, they exercised extreme caution in making any decisions related to fate.

Chapter 1201: The Future of Dao Cultivation

Yi Shu gradually recovered from his shock but still chose not to express his stance.

However, his specific actions had already changed.

Initially planning to observe briefly and then return, he now proposed a request to Sun Erlang to stay and observe for an extended period.

Sun Erlang hesitated, saying, "I can't make this decision on my own; I need to consult with my Master."

Yi Shu nodded, "I believe your Master will agree."

Sure enough, the Faceless Holy Emperor agreed to the request from the Taiyan Sect to stay. However, there was a condition.

"Using [Simulation] to help the cultivators in the Grand Opening quickly grow?"

Yi Shu hesitated for a moment.

"The Master said that even if the Taiyan Sect refuses to help, he has other methods. It's just more troublesome. The core focus of the Taiyan Sect is still on the extrapolation of the future of the Xuanhuang Realm. Until there is a definite outcome, the Master also agrees that your Taiyan Sect maintains a certain neutrality. Consider it a kind of transaction," Sun Erlang relayed Li Ping's original words.

After a moment of silence and discussion between the Taiyan Sect and the Dao Stone Mother, Yi Shu eventually agreed.

For the Taiyan Sect, running a few simulations was simply making use of idle computational power. Having an extra path for the future was beneficial in every way.

Just like when the calamity was approaching, and some cultivators chose to leave, the Ten Sects never placed their choices in a single basket.

From then on, the Grand Opening of the Small World gained an additional observer.

Apart from the area under the Holy Emperor's seat, the location of the You Clan, and the Xuanhuang Realm's fishing pond, Yi Shu could observe without constraints.

Li Ping wasn't worried about this.

With the Grand Opening's fortune and the increasingly perfected Heaven and Earth Myriad Spirits Great Array, Li Ping had complete control over Yi Shu's every move. Even the life and death of Yi Shu's current body were within his thoughts.

In the distant Xuanhuang Realm, someone had already set their sights on the Taiyan Sect.

"While I have no intention of harming others, I must leave a means."

"The Taiyan Sect has abandoned physical existence and collectively exists within the Dao Stone Mother. The persistence of information is indeed remarkable. Even when the calamity approaches and a part of the cultivators choose to escape, the Ten Sects never place their choices in a single basket."

"Although it's just a theory, because the materials are fundamentally impossible to arrange, the Taiyan Sect, consisting purely of information, is more likely to reveal flaws."

"Hongmeng Vision, Myriad Spirits Return to Origin, if the two arrays cooperate..."

In the mental space, Li Fan, seemingly in meditation, was actually having continuous thoughts surging.

While information persisted, physical means or even ordinary immortal techniques were ineffective. However, data contamination might have a peculiar effect.

To Li Fan's knowledge, there was currently no such method circulating in the Dao traditions of the Xuanhuang Realm. His conception originated from the mysterious and unpredictable [Primordial Spirit-Beginning Spirit Great Array].

The combination of nine immortal-grade arrays had unimaginable power. It could even recreate the Earth, Fire, Water, and Wind in the void and establish a new world.

Fortunately, with the End Dissociation Disc, under the enhancement of the Dao Stone's computational power, Li Fan had already roughly mastered three of them.

Xuanji, Myriad Spirits Return to Origin; Desolation, Flowers Blooming in a Vacant Room; Immeasurable, Boundless Vision.

Among them, the Xuanji, Myriad Spirits Return to Origin array had the extraordinary effect of turning everything within its coverage into data, allowing for arbitrary transformation.

"Although it's only a theory, arranging the formation is fundamentally impossible due to the materials. But fortunately, the Taiyan Sect has no physical form. Pure information is easier to expose vulnerabilities."

"Hongmeng Vision, Myriad Spirits Return to Origin, if the two arrays cooperate..."

In the sea of consciousness, the End Dissociation Disc, under the Dao Stone's computational power, was rapidly extrapolating a new form of array.

In the past half year, Li Fan had already roughly completed the analysis of the Hongmeng Vision array in the Myriad-Mirror.

After some repairs by the separated consciousness, the damaged Myriad-Mirror's capabilities had significantly improved.

The corresponding cost was that the separated consciousness had once again weakened.

However, Li Fan wasn't worried.

Sun Luyuan had been slow to complete the task assigned by the Observer [Fou] of the Myriad-Mirror, and even his intentional evasion had been noticed. The pressure he faced kept growing, and perhaps in a short time, he would have to yield and use the Myriad-Mirror again to attempt to spy on the Heaven Mystery Mirror.

Feeling the information from the divided self on the Mirror, Li Fan was currently contemplating something else.

Chapter 1201: The Origins of the Dao Stone Mother

Li Fan was pondering the origins of the Dao Stone Mother.

When the Taiyan Sect initially received the transmission from Grandmaster Tiandu, there probably wasn't the Dao Stone Mother. However, later, this treasure appeared out of nowhere, transforming the Taiyan Sect's techniques from suitable for only a few into practices that everyone could cultivate. This firmly secured the Taiyan Sect's position among the Ten Sects.

"In the Xuanhuang Realm, there are many treasures capable of extrapolation. For example, the Myriad-Mirror, despite being damaged, can still predict some events in the future. However, both the Myriad-Mirror and even the Heaven Mystery Mirror, their miraculous powers seem more like the result of refining immortal-grade forces. They are considered 'Instruments.'"

"While the Dao Stone Mother seems more like a pure 'Substance.'"

"Legendary celestial treasures... Although the Xuanhuang Realm is vast, it doesn't seem like a place capable of naturally giving birth to such divine items."

Suddenly, Li Fan remembered a piece of hearsay he had heard from someone in the Du'e Sect.

An extraterrestrial star fell into the Xuanhuang, causing the spiritual energy in the Xuanhuang Realm to completely fail.

"Could it be that this Dao Stone Mother also comes from beyond the stars?"

Li Fan couldn't help but speculate.

However, it was just speculation. The real answer could only be known if he could invade the Dao Stone one day.

"The Stone Mother extrapolates the future solely based on its powerful computational power. Even so, it has already reached a certain pinnacle, demonstrating the strength of its computing power. If supplemented by external items, optimizing its methods of extrapolation, I wonder what kind of level it could reach."

For example, the Dao Stone in Li Fan's sea of consciousness, despite being promoted to a high grade after several fusions, struggled to extrapolate formations on its own. It was challenging even for immortal-grade formations, let alone something like the [Reversal of Life and Death Grand Array].

Similarly, relying solely on the End Dissociation Disc itself, being a mundane object, it struggled to extrapolate immortal-grade arrays.

But when the two worked together, the situation changed significantly.

"Complementary and mutually beneficial."

This harmonious scene made Li Fan imagine what it would be like if the Dao Stone Mother were paired with the End Dissociation Disc, not just for formations but even more.

"The powers of the Bloodline Ascendant, the future of the Myriad-Mirror..."

With the terrifying computational power of the Dao Stone Mother added to these factors, it would undoubtedly undergo a qualitative change.

Even by continually reincarnating and infinitely adding to the already peak Dao Stone Mother in each life, it could be pushed to an unimaginable state.

The assistance the End Dissociation Disc provided to Li Fan in the cycle didn't need many words.

"If combined with others..."

Li Fan couldn't help but feel excited.

"Perhaps, the way to break the deadlock lies within."

"With treasures in front of us, it all depends on how we plan."

Li Fan's eyes sparkled.

Chapter 1202: Chief of the Guardian Hall

The Dao Stone Mother had successfully survived the extinction disaster in the Xuanhuang Realm, so Li Fan wouldn't underestimate it.

"There's no need to be hasty. In this life, let's be a reliable partner, gaining the trust of the Taiyan Sect and learning more about its hidden information."

"I will first improve this array of data pollution. If there's a chance, I'll give it a try and see the results."

The space of the Dao Stone Mother provided Li Fan with enough safe and undisturbed time.

Except for occasional disruptions caused by the mischievous little Lolita, most of the time was quite leisurely.

The communication between the three elder guardians became less frequent, each immersed in their own world.

However, on this day, a special group of people arrived in the Dao Stone Mother space.

Without the jurisdiction jade plaques, they received special approval from the Immortal Alliance. Led by the Chief Elder of the Guardian Hall, they came here.

The usually lazy Huayue Night seemed a bit nervous, repeatedly greeting, "Greetings, Elder Xu."

Li Fan noticed that not only the other two guardians but even the usually carefree Huayue Night had restrained themselves.

While bowing, Li Fan looked at the white-haired elder who seemed to be blind. Information about this Chief Elder of the Guardian Hall flashed through his mind.

"Xu Yuanxian has served as the Chief of the Guardian Hall for more than three thousand years. Although he looks approachable on the surface, he has a strange and rigid temper. He strictly adheres to the rules of the Immortal Alliance, without any leniency. Even when the messengers come, he doesn't allow any rule-breaking. He is highly valued by the messenger Jiang, and although other messengers may not like him, they can't do anything about it."

"Since he can serve as the Chief of the Guardian Hall, Xu Yuanxian's own strength is unpredictable and not something an ordinary cultivator can compare to. The only record of the Immortal Alliance killing a cultivator and retrieving leaked techniques was when he took action. It was clean and quick, not giving onlookers any time to react."

Xu Yuanxian explained his purpose, "The Immortal Alliance Grand Examination has just ended. These youngsters are among the best. The Messenger Council has specially approved them to use the Dao Stone Mother and extrapolate a joint Dao technique."

"Hmm?"

"Why is it like this?!"

The three guardians and the Dao Stone Lolita were somewhat surprised.

The Lolita pouted and seemed ready to complain.

Seeing Xu Yuanxian's expression, she wisely swallowed her words.

Li Fan, reacting the fastest, nodded, "Please show your council seal, Chief."

Serious and without any casualness just because the other was his immediate superior.

Xu Yuanxian also cooperated and displayed a council seal.

Feeling the aura of the messengers surrounding it, Li Fan meticulously checked the information on it before nodding to indicate that the check was passed.

Li Fan postponed the cultivators waiting for extrapolation, allowing the Dao Stone Lolita to handle the tasks for these new Immortal Alliance recruits.

There were a total of sixteen people, varying in age and cultivation level.

The massive Dao Stone light sphere constantly revolved, and the Dao Stone Lolita worked diligently on the extrapolation.

While these cultivators were queuing for the extrapolation of techniques, Li Fan curiously transmitted a message to Xu Yuanxian, "Chief, forgive my ignorance, but these cultivators... don't seem to have particularly outstanding aptitude. Why is the Immortal Alliance treating them so well?"

The transmission didn't avoid the other two guardians, who also looked curious.

However, all they got was silence.

Xu Yuanxian remained silent, as if he hadn't heard Li Fan's message.

The other two guardians tactfully withdrew their gaze.

Li Fan didn't continue to inquire, and an awkward silence enveloped the ceremony.

It wasn't until all sixteen people completed the extrapolation of their techniques, ready to leave, that Xu Yuanxian suddenly responded.

"This question, I'm curious about it too."

"However, there are too many unknowns in the world, and there's no need to know everything. Just do our own duties. Since the Messenger Council has decided this way, there must be a reason. We subordinates only need to follow orders."

The three guardians bowed respectfully to show they had learned their lesson.

Chapter 1203: Until Xu Yuanxian Completely Leaves the Dao Stone Space

It was only after Xu Yuanxian completely left the Dao Stone space that they dared to communicate.

"Chief, you truly live up to your reputation as being old-fashioned."

"Sun Dao Friend, your response was quite fast. The Chief likes when you handle things by the rules. If you continue like this, you might be chosen as the next Chief when Dao Friend comes out in five hundred years." Huayue Night teased.

Li Fan ignored their banter and, following the regulations, reported the special use of the Dao Stone in this instance. Then, he casually remarked, "Being the Chief of the Guardian Hall seems more like being imprisoned compared to our job. I have no interest in it."

"I have a lovely wife waiting for me at home."

Half-jokingly, he elicited laughter from the two guardians.

This incident was just a small episode during the guardianship of the Dao Stone.

Soon, everyone dismissed the matter, except for Li Fan.

Because...

Among those sixteen individuals, there was unexpectedly one who had infiltrated the Immortal Alliance on behalf of the Holy Dynasty.

His name was Yang Fei.

Li Fan knew him, but Yang Fei didn't recognize Li Fan.

Nevertheless, it didn't affect Li Fan's alertness.

The Immortal Alliance never did things without reason. These sixteen newcomers, receiving such preferential treatment right after joining the Immortal Alliance, made it difficult for Li Fan not to suspect that there might be some conspiracy behind it.

"Could it be like the previous 'Immortal Selectors,' used as sacrifices to awaken the power left by the Messenger Celestial in the stone statues scattered around? No, it's not right. If they are sacrifices, they are destined to die. It doesn't make sense to waste the Dao Stone's computing power..."

Li Fan keenly sensed the anomaly behind this.

In the underground secret chamber of the Sun family, his avatar finally found the right opportunity.

Sun Luyuan once again came to the secret chamber with bloodshot eyes. After struggling for a while, he finally took out a small celestial mirror.

Then, using his own essence blood, he replenished Sun Luyao within the Infinite Mirror. While doing so, he explained, "The pressure from above is too great. Forgive me, brother."

"Originally, I thought I could swear to resist to the death. But looking at the faces of the Sun family one by one..."

Sun Luyao transformed into a black shadow, revealing his figure, and consoled according to Li Fan's instructions, "Brother, I understand. It's okay, leave it to me."

Hearing this, Sun Luyuan trembled slightly, his fists clenched, and his nails almost pierced into his flesh.

At this moment, the images of the information about the Holy Dynasty that he had searched for reappeared in his mind.

"Perhaps, I can try to make contact with this 'Big Awakening.'"

"To be a dog for a lifetime also comes with the risk of being killed at any time. Maybe this Holy Dynasty can really give me some surprises?"

The Infinite Mirror pretended to be searching for information related to the Celestial Mirror in the Celestial Realm. In reality, it was probing to find out why these sixteen cultivators were treated so favorably.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 1203: Dark Encounter in the Starry Sea

It was evidently a top-secret matter for the Immortal Alliance.

Deeply concealed, even with some parts of the Grand Unification Vision Formation restored, it proved extremely difficult for the Infinite Mirror to search for information.

Care had to be taken to prevent detection by the Celestial Mirror. During the continuous search, the Infinite Realm began to operate under a heavy load.

The mirror body started to shake violently, and faint cracks appeared on its surface.

Sun Luyuan's eyes turned red, and several times he wanted to put away the Celestial Mirror.

However, the resolute conviction transmitted by Sun Luyao each time made him refrain.

"Brother, I can hold on a bit longer."

"I've found some clues; I can't abandon my previous efforts!"

"Brother, I can do this!"

Listening to Sun Luyao's almost uncontrollable painful voice, Sun Luyuan halted his thoughts.

"Brother, fortunately, I didn't fail you."

Thankfully, his brother didn't disappoint him. Upon hearing these four words, Sun Luyuan felt a tremendous relief.

After examining the top-secret information his brother had gathered, his expression underwent constant changes.

"Fang's suspicions were correct; Cang has indeed been controlled."

"Weidu..."

"It seems that the internal situation of this Mirror Holder is more complex than we imagined," Sun Luyao's shadow said weakly. "Brother, our Sun family is still too weak. With a slight mistake, we could be torn to pieces."

"Rest assured. Leave the rest to me." Sun Luyuan spoke in a deep voice.

"Oh, brother. Can we leave the Celestial Mirror behind this time?" Just as he was about to leave, Sun Luyuan suddenly heard Sun Luyao say.

Sun Luyuan couldn't help but hesitate.

"Don't worry, brother. I'm not out of control. Even after several recent extreme explorations, I inexplicably gained better control over the Infinite Mirror. I'm thinking that when I have spare energy, I'll try a few more times. I'll be even more proficient in the future..."

In the end, Sun Luyuan was convinced by his brother's sincere words.

Moreover, his brother's condition was indeed much better than the previous loss of control at the end of exploration.

After a few more admonitions, he decided to leave the Celestial Mirror behind.

Not long after Sun Luyuan left in haste...

A virtual figure drifted out of the Infinite Mirror and entered the Celestial Mirror.

After a moment, a series of lights continuously flashed. A large amount of soul-nourishing materials were purchased.

Li Fan's avatar devoured them without reservation, quickly reversing his previously weakened state.

With the origin of the Celestial Mirror, he could easily steal a large amount of resources from the small mirror without being noticed.

At this moment, Sun Luyao's figure also floated out.

Looking at Li Fan, he was filled with fear.

These soul-nourishing treasures were useless to him.

But the casual guidance from this adult could facilitate the integration between him and the Infinite Mirror.

It was something that he and his brother had been struggling to achieve over several centuries.

The terror of this adult was undeniable in Sun Luyao's eyes.

In his view, this adult was much scarier than any Mirror Holder.

His submission seemed only natural.

"Brother, you can understand me, right?" Sun Luyao silently pondered.

The apparent pain he displayed in front of Sun Luyuan earlier was, of course, a pretense.

Although there were some twists and turns, it was ultimately safe.

However, the information that the mysterious figure had painstakingly gathered left him puzzled.

"Sixteen cultivators, summoned by the Transmission Law, leaving the Xuanhuang, heading to the outer heavens."

To Sun Luyao, this didn't seem particularly unusual.

But in Li Fan's eyes, it held a different significance.

As his avatar slowly recovered, Li Fan contemplated the matter.

"The Transmission Law actually unprecedentedly summoned cultivators to leave the Xuanhuang Realm?"

"What's going on?"

"With his strength, even if these sixteen people were nurtured into Dao Fusion by the Immortal Alliance in a short time, they would still be insignificant."

"They weren't even selected from the existing Dao Fusion cultivators in the Immortal Alliance."

Li Fan recalled the spy he had arranged, Yang Fei.

He seemed to be nothing out of the ordinary.

Li Fan wasn't worried that Yang Fei would expose him to the Transmission Law, as Yang Fei himself didn't know he was a spy for the Holy Dynasty.

Because Yang Fei was indeed a member of the Immortal Alliance. However, he happened to meet some friends interested in the Immortal Alliance's exam just before participating, and guessed a few questions right.

"It's certain that the Transmission Law's summoning of these sixteen cultivators is related to the turbulent phenomenon of the [Resonating Star Power] in the Xuanhuang Realm."

"I just don't know what the Transmission Law encountered, requiring these sixteen cultivators?"

"And now, the Resonating Star Power near the Immortal Burial Site has disappeared. I wonder how this group managed to leave the Xuanhuang Realm?"

This matter was too secretive, with very few records even in the Celestial Mirror.

"It's a pity that my Holy Embryo is at the other end of the Starry Sea; otherwise, I could follow them and find out what's going on."

Thinking of this, Li Fan's thoughts suddenly paused.

He suddenly realized that the Transmission Law's goal in the Dark Star Sea was to collect remnants from various cultivation realms.

And the location of his Holy Embryo was a vast sea of artifacts, drawn together by the mysterious Resonating Star Power.

"Since artifacts gather here, could remnants of cultivation realms also be gathered in a similar manner?"

"Beyond the Sea of Artifacts, is there another Sea of Remnants?"

At the other end of the Starry Sea, in the vicinity of the Immortal Boat, Li Fan's hidden Holy Embryo suddenly opened its eyes.

His gaze seemed to penetrate endless ruins and darkness, looking towards the depths of the Sea of Artifacts.

"Could it be that I'm now very close to the Transmission Law?"

Li Fan couldn't help but think.

"If my guess is correct, by waiting here, I might even encounter the sixteen cultivators from the Immortal Alliance."

"Furthermore, thinking further, with the formidable existence of the Transmission Law wandering the Dark Star Sea for thousands of years, it's impossible for it not to be aware of the hidden Immortal Boat civilization here. The two sides might have had interactions long ago."

"But, the Immortal Boat may not necessarily know the true identity of the Transmission Law."

Although the information currently available suggested that the Immortal Boat civilization seemed weak, being able to survive for thousands of years in the Dark Star Sea, and even dabbling in the power of True Immortal characters...

The peak power of the Immortal Boat was definitely not to be underestimated.

"Zhao Xian's strength is too low, and his knowledge of the Immortal Boat's history is limited."

"It seems I need to provide a bit of assistance."

After drifting in the Starry Sea for thousands of years, even without a civilization gap, the theoretical level of Xuanxian Boat's cultivation techniques had not progressed significantly.

All observed realms had perished, leaving only the destructive remnants of True Immortal characters resonating in the Starry Sea. Adhering to the principle of survival, Xuanxian Boat placed all its future hopes on researching this mighty force. As for other aspects...

Compared to the beleaguered Xuanhuang Realm, it was significantly weaker.

At the very least, in the extreme environment where different cultivation paths couldn't coexist, the marvelous techniques born in Xuanhuang Realm were considered awe-inspiring by Xuanxian Boat cultivators.

With the foundation of the Immortal Alliance's technique repository, Li Fan's avatar quickly found the most suitable cultivation method for Zhao Xian. In Zhao Xian's perspective, this was part of the vast number of techniques derived through the calculation of the Celestial Mirror in the future.

"Spirit Harmony Technique. A divine art suitable for cultivation even in extreme resource scarcity. It achieves perfect coordination between divine consciousness and spiritual power. In situations where either side is dominant, it can convert the weaker side."

"Within the academy, the supply of spiritual energy is limited. It's already the limit for me to ascend to the Golden Core stage. To further advance, it's impossible. But I can use secret techniques that increase divine consciousness to drive an increase in spiritual power..."

"In the academy's exchange catalog, the value of the items needed to perform the secret techniques is far less than spirit stones."

Zhao Xian, who was troubled by the bottleneck, suddenly had a flash of inspiration. From that strange dream of the future, he recalled more information. Excited, he immediately spent all his accumulated contributions to exchange for the materials needed to refine his divine consciousness.

Black God Gel, Red Ancient Mash, Nourishing Ambition Amber...

These ordinary items found in the Immortal Boat were ignited by Zhao Xian's flames, melted, and transformed into crystal-clear liquid. Then, like a whale absorbing water, it continuously entered his sea of consciousness.

The scalding hot waves almost instantly burned Zhao Xian's divine consciousness clean.

After a brief moment of blank consciousness, Zhao Xian found himself surprisingly adapting to this intense heat. At the same time, the intensity of his divine consciousness began to visibly increase.

"Truly a supreme technique!" Zhao Xian exclaimed.

However, Zhao Xian didn't know that the reason his fragile divine consciousness during the Qi Refining stage could be preserved in such intense refining was all thanks to Li Fan's avatar.

Even the majority of the effects of the liquid concocted from those treasures were absorbed and refined by Li Fan's avatar. After all, with Zhao Xian's cultivation only in the later stage of Qi Refining, even a tiny portion was enough to steadily enhance his divine consciousness.

When Zhao Xian awakened from cultivation, he felt that the intensity of his divine consciousness had almost doubled compared to before. He had reached the level of the early Foundation Establishment.

Compared to this "enormous" divine consciousness power, his spiritual power cultivation seemed somewhat weak.

It felt like a giant playing with a toy body.

Suppressing the inner ecstasy, Zhao Xian hastily operated the "Spirit Harmony Technique." In his sea of consciousness, an invisible millstone suddenly appeared, crushing his divine consciousness into pure power, nourishing Zhao Xian's body.

Without absorbing any spiritual energy, Zhao Xian's cultivation soared at a terrifying speed.

Finally, after three days, Zhao Xian's divine consciousness and spiritual power balanced at the early Foundation Establishment stage.

"Did I really succeed in Foundation Establishment?"

The awestruck Zhao Xian looked at his hands.

"This breakthrough was too easy; I didn't even feel any so-called heart demons or bottlenecks, as mentioned by Master and the seniors."

"After Foundation Establishment, my privileges in the academy have increased significantly. I can exchange for more resources. It seems that my cultivation will be even faster than before..."

Being just a young man, Zhao Xian couldn't suppress his excitement when envisioning the future.

Ultimately, the scene of the Immortal Boat's fall in the dream of the future pulled him back to reality.

"The road ahead is long, and I still have a lot to go through. I must not be arrogant."

Zhao Xian was contemplating how to make the most of his "foresight advantage" to rapidly climb the ranks.

Meanwhile, Li Fan's avatar was savoring the scene of Zhao Xian's breakthrough.

Zhao Xian didn't genuinely avoid any obstacles in breaking through; he was just blocked by Li Fan.

"The fluctuations appeared out of nowhere, directly pointing to the innermost emotions."

"It's not True Immortal characters, but the principles of the Starry Sea..."

At this moment, outside the Xuanxian Boat, Li Fan's divine embryo suddenly sensed something.

As his body came into direct contact with this space filled with a deathly stillness, Li Fan, during the crossing of the Dark Starry Sky, understood that this Dark Starry Sea actually shared a set of fundamental principles with the Xuanhuang Realm. Its upper limit was even slightly higher than that of the Xuanhuang Realm.

The Sword Dao that had reached its limit in the Xuanhuang Realm had, unconsciously, broken through its original bottleneck and reached new heights during the time spent traversing the Starry Sea.

While the bottleneck of the "Heaven's Tribulation" in the Xuanhuang Realm had found another form of existence in this Dark Starry Sea.

"Persuading people to abandon the Dao, leaving all thoughts in despair. Just breaking through to the Qi Refining Perfection unexpectedly has such power. If it weren't for my extensive experiences and an unwavering heart beyond ordinary people..."

"I'm afraid I would have to use the Immortal Heart Mantra to resolve it." Li Fan's divine embryo secretly shivered.

In the various illusions carried by the invisible fluctuations, Li Fan's divine embryo seemed to see the scene of breaking through successfully, experiencing numerous hardships but ultimately dying from various calamities.

No matter how hard one tried, failure seemed inevitable.

"It might be better to return to the Dao, return to the Dao..."

The obsession was like a demonic melody, echoing in the sea of consciousness, persuading to give up cultivation.

"The Heavenly Dao of this Dark Starry Sea is somewhat interesting. It's somewhat similar to the ancient Heart Devils recorded in the classics of the Xuanhuang Realm."

"Judging from a limited perspective, although this Starry Sea has been devastated by the power of True Immortal characters, its fundamental operations still seem intact."

Li Fan's divine embryo kept pondering, and suddenly, the view opened up as if he saw a broader world outside the Xuanhuang.

Even though this world was already in tatters, it brought new insights to Li Fan's comprehension of the principles of the world.

He revisited the content of the Heavenly Doctor's "Heaven-Mending Records."

"If the situation in the Xuanhuang Realm is likened to a critically ill patient being revived through a patched-up resurrection, then this Dark Starry Sea has long been dead. Most of its bodies have been crushed into fragments, with only a few remnants remaining..."

"The Xuanhuang Realm can still be saved to some extent, but this Dark Starry Sea is beyond salvation."

"Of course, this is seen from the perspective of the Heavenly Doctor when writing the 'Heaven-Mending Records.'"

(End of this chapter)