Chapter 571-575: Today's Dao Enlightenment (6666 words)

The statue had a peculiar design.

Five faces, ten hands and sharing one body.

Each face displayed a different expression.

Some with lowered brows, showing pity for the world.

Some with a stern look, staring angrily.

And one, with a slightly furrowed brow, appearing pitiful at first glance. Upon closer inspection, a hint of coquetry and allure could be discerned in her reluctant yet inviting demeanor.

It was none other than Senior Zhao.

Li Fan's heart warmed at first, various romantic thoughts emerging involuntarily.

In a trance, he could even hear Senior Zhao's soft whispers in his ears.

"No, something's wrong!"

Suddenly, Li Fan's alertness awakened, breaking free from the illusion, drenched in cold sweat.

Upon looking again, there weren't so many vivid expressions.

On the ten-handed statue, there were only five indistinct faces.

"What's this?" Li Fan pretended to remain calm, taking out the statue.

Seeing the colorful statue in Li Fan's hand, the black-robed cultivator's eyes revealed a fanatical expression as he explained, "This is the likeness of the Manifested Celestial Venerables, the highest-grade kind."

"It is the manifestation of the will of the five Celestial Venerables. Although it doesn't directly allow you to meet the Celestial Venerables, it can establish contact with the Five Pivot Court."

"In worldly matters, the Celestial Venerables usually don't intervene. They are usually managed by the Five Pivot Court."

"When you need the cooperation of our Five Elders' Council in your actions, you can convey information directly to the Five Pivot Court through the Celestial Venerable's statue."

"It can only be used once, and after that, the statue will naturally disappear."

...

Listening to the explanation, Li Fan nodded slowly.

After carefully examining the ten-handed statue, Li Fan stored it back into the Transparent Void Mother Stone.

With the transaction complete, Li Fan was about to leave.

"Friend, please wait!"

But the black-robed cultivator suddenly spoke up, stopping him.

"What's the matter?" Li Fan squinted, showing a displeased expression.

The black-robed cultivator hastily waved his hand, "Hehe, Friend, please don't misunderstand. In fact, there's another small favor I'd like to ask you. Of course, the reward is absolutely not lacking!"

"What is it?" Li Fan's expression eased slightly, saying indifferently.

The black-robed cultivator handed over a piece of paper. Li Fan took it and saw several lines of small text written on it.

In essence, a little over a year ago, the Immortal Alliance unearthed a dormant cultivator from the ancient Zixiao Sect ruins.

The Five Elders' Council wanted to request the Overarching Sky Union to help investigate the true identity of this cultivator and their current location.

Zixiao Sect.

Familiar words entered Li Fan's eyes, causing a slight stir in his heart.

"Is this a small favor?" Without showing any strangeness, Li Fan coldly snorted and ignited the paper with a flame from his fingertip, destroying it.

The black-robed cultivator smiled awkwardly.

"Do your best. We don't dare to guarantee anything. The difficulty of this matter is not beneath the formation diagram."

Li Fan turned to leave, leaving behind a resonating sentence in the secret chamber.

Upon hearing it, the black-robed cultivator looked thoughtful.

On the way back, Li Fan was particularly vigilant. After all, he was currently carrying valuable items and needed to be cautious.

Fortunately, the security environment in the Immortal Alliance was relatively good, and there were no incidents of robbing or killing.

"Zhou Qing'ang" smoothly returned to the Congyun Immortal City.

It wasn't until he felt completely safe that a sense of connection emerged in his heart.

The covenant was completed.

The provision in the covenant that prohibited mutual harm between the parties also became invalid at this moment.

Following that, a feeling of emptiness and loss emerged, as if something had vanished inexplicably from his body.

Despite contemplating for a long time, Li Fan couldn't fathom the form in which the power of the "covenant" existed, so he had to shake his head and give up.

Without rushing to check the gains from this transaction stored in the Transparent Void Mother Stone, Li Fan first pondered the request made by the Five Elders' Council.

Upon hearing words like "Zixiao Sect" and "dormant cultivator," the first three words that flashed in his mind were "Zhang Qianmo."

In reality, Li Fan was aware of the Immortal Alliance excavating relics of ancient sects and discovering dormant cultivators.

When he anchored for 11 years, he entrusted Jiao Xiuyuan with the task of finding information about the Little Medicine King Cauldron, and upon receiving no response, he inquired in person.

Jiao Xiuyuan then told him about what he had witnessed and shared his speculations.

Li Fan then asked him to help investigate the identity of this ancient cultivator.

Unfortunately, two years had passed without any results.

This indicated the extraordinary nature of the matter.

Jiao Xiuyuan, with his Dao Fusion cultivation and various avatars spread throughout the Immortal Alliance, was well-informed.

However, he was powerless in this matter.

"Perhaps it doesn't necessarily have to be Senior Zhang."

"Senior Zhang practiced the Purple Pill Nirvana method, undergoing continuous cycles. He should have reincarnated into the current 'Martial Fool Child.'"

"Such a supreme technique should not have such a glaring flaw."

"If, during reincarnation, my original body still exists in the world, it would expose the vulnerability."

After analyzing it, Li Fan negated his previous speculation.

"Then, apart from Senior Zhang, who else from Zixiao Sect could have survived until now?"

After much contemplation, Li Fan couldn't come up with a reasonable answer.

It should be noted that in ancient times, Zixiao Sect was just a second-rate sect.

There were no Grand Dao realm powerhouses in the sect, and even Dao Fusion cultivators were only a few.

Based on the memories of Li Chen, who was attached to him initially, those elders in the sect did not seem like individuals who could traverse countless ages and survive to the present.

"At present, I have abandoned the identity of a 'Tianji Sect cultivator,' and I am not carrying any items. I cannot contact Jiao Xiuyuan for the time being."

"Let's wait until after the big battle."

Li Fan pondered for a moment and temporarily set aside this matter.

Taking out a piece of "Human Dao Stardust" from the mother stone, he placed it in front of him.

After swallowing another Enlightenment Pill, Li Fan began to examine it.

The seemingly ordinary black stone emitted a silver starlight.

Upon touching it with his divine sense, countless scenes flashed in his mind.

It was a story of a female cultivator with great perseverance who, after five hundred years of cultivation, finally achieved the return of the 'beloved's affection.'

There was no need to elaborate; it was an ordinary worldly affair of unrequited love.

However, unlike many stories, this female cultivator ultimately sacrificed herself to become a star, causing the male cultivator she had yearned for to fall in love with her.

In the remaining years, he would gaze at the sky every day, tears flowing endlessly, filled with regret.

Li Fan remained expressionless and decisively switched to another piece.

The story contained in this "Human Dao Stardust" seemed a bit more normal.

It was about a cultivator who, after witnessing the suffering of close family members due to insufficient aptitude, couldn't cultivate and faced the tragic fate of aging and dying after just a few decades.

He made a grand vow to allow everyone in the world to cultivate as they wished.

However, this grand vision proved too vast and remained unrealized for a long time.

So, he settled for a more achievable goal, changing the scope from "everyone in the world" to "members of his family."

After ascending to the sky, his family thrived.

In less than a hundred years, it became a prominent force in the local area.

"Reversing aptitude..."

Li Fan's eyes flashed with brilliance, and spiritual power gathered in his palm. With a sudden force, the black stone was instantly crushed, and the silver starlight was all absorbed by Li Fan.

In an instant, numerous ineffable insights surged into his mind. The principles of heaven and earth intertwined to form a vast network, establishing the order on which the world relied.

One of these threads, in Li Fan's eyes at this moment, shone brightly. Tangible and seemingly intricate patterns on it were all clear.

In a moment, this "thread" occupied Li Fan's entire field of vision, becoming as colossal as a supporting pillar. The delightful aura emanating from it intoxicated Li Fan. Many previously incomprehensible things now became clear in an instant.

Li Fan also discovered that countless threads seemed to connect him to the colossal pillar. Staring at these faint and indistinct lines, a sudden realization emerged in his mind.

Although his current appearance seemed like a puppet manipulated by the "pillar" through threads, if his strength became powerful enough one day, he might not be unable to use these threads as ties to reverse the colossal pillar.

"So, this is defying the principles of heaven and earth..."

Endless joy surged into his heart, causing even the secluded Li Fan in the deep Congyun Abyss to tremble with excitement.

Reincarnation for a hundred lifetimes, the Daoist path to eternal life he had yearned for was now within reach.

Although there was still a considerable gap between understanding and truly achieving it, the gains at this moment filled Li Fan with tremendous satisfaction.

His mind immersed, unaware of the passing of time.

When the "Human Dao Stardust" was nearly depleted, he woke up from his enlightenment, feeling that he had not had enough.

After pondering for a long time, he finally came to his senses.

Subconsciously checking the time, Li Fan was shocked to find that what felt like a "short while" to him was almost a year passing in the outside world.

"No wonder Grand Dao realm experts are too lazy to deal with worldly matters. Now I understand what true cultivation without the constraints of time means."

"This is just a glimpse through the 'Human Dao Stardust,' with a limited perspective."

"If I can truly comprehend the principles of heaven and earth, immerse myself in it, it might not just be a few decades that would be consumed during seclusion."

Li Fan couldn't help but sigh.

After reminiscing for a long time, Li Fan began to check the events that had occurred in the outside world during his year of seclusion.

The communication talisman of "Zhou Qing'ang" was almost bursting with messages from He Zhenghao and others.

Li Fan didn't hurry to reply, instead choosing to focus on key points.

The battle in Tianlingzhou was still ongoing, but it had eased considerably. Cultivators were now aware of some of the information coming back from the battlefield.

The effect of the Xuantian Sealing Spirit Array diagram that Li Fan handed over was immediate.

On the tenth day after the completion of the transaction, in a medium-sized skirmish, the Immortal Alliance attempted to use the Tianxuan Sealing Spirit Array to crush and massacre the Five Elders' Council's group of cultivators.

Unexpectedly, the other side was well-prepared. Each cultivator emitted a layer of red protective light.

After the fusion of green and red, nothing unusual happened.

While the Immortal Alliance side was astonished, a fierce melee battle ensued.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 572: Flourishing Era, Myriads of Insects Born

Although the official account of this battle was intentionally downplayed by the Immortal Alliance, clues about the aftermath and various actions of the Immortal Alliance could be inferred.

Various recently issued offensive orders were urgently revoked; instructions were given to strictly defend each state to prevent infiltration by Five Elders' Council cultivators; no state was allowed to initiate hostilities, and the current phase of tasks emphasized defense.

The mobilization orders to the frontlines dispatched to various states became even more frequent.

"Orders changing from day to night, it's like a drama troupe!" 

Almost overnight, the war strategy underwent a 180-degree change, leading to unanimous complaints from Immortal Alliance cultivators.

However, due to the might of the Immortal Alliance, no one dared to express their dissatisfaction openly. Only during private gatherings would there be heartfelt sighs.

The progress of the war did not shift according to the will of the cultivators. It merely changed from seemingly advantageous to a stalemate.

While external warfare faced setbacks, internal matters were not calm either.

It was said that many high-ranking cultivators in the Immortal Alliance headquarters were dismissed and investigated. Even some well-established veteran Daoist cultivators with deep backgrounds could not escape.

However, the reasons for their interrogation were unknown.

Even after these cultivators were released, they remained tight-lipped about the details, appearing weak and tortured. This further fueled speculation and anxiety.

After all, no one wanted to be the next person taken away for questioning without any apparent reason.

Yet, Li Fan knew that the Immortal Alliance was investigating a nonexistent traitor.

Regardless of their efforts, how could they imagine that the leaker of the Xuantian Sealing Spirit Array diagram was a mere Golden Core cultivator from the remote border of the Immortal Alliance: a cultivator in the Congyun Sea?

So, this was an investigation destined to yield no results.

Perhaps, the outcome of the case would ultimately conclude hastily, with a few unlucky individuals forced to confess.

Li Fan's list of casualties would then include several more innocent names.

After getting a rough idea of the war's progress over the past year, Li Fan began to review the numerous messages sent by He Zhenghao to "Zhou Qing'ang."

Mostly, they were inquiries and urgencies about when he would come out of seclusion.

At the beginning of his seclusion, the messages were frequent, but later, for some reason, they became fewer.

"Lord Envoy is deeply in seclusion, and you, Friend Zhou, are the same."

"Can't reach anyone."

"Now, everyone is doing it skillfully, destroying their communication talismans directly, claiming to be in seclusion."

"At this rate, our Congyun City Bureau of Political Affairs is afraid that we won't even be able to gather ten clerks! How do I explain this to Lord Envoy when he returns!"

...

He Zhenghao complained bitterly, while Li Fan coldly snorted.

"Do you still see me as Lord Envoy?"

Ignoring this dying man's words, Li Fan cleared the messages in the communication talisman with a blink, then quietly left the closed-door chamber and appeared in the main hall of the Bureau of Political Affairs.

"Elder Gao, the position of 'Alchemist Guild Examiner' in the alchemy hall is now vacant. Someone offered me fifty thousand contribution points to buy this position. What do you think?"

"I think it's a bit low, at least eighty thousand."

"After all, not long ago, the position of 'Martial Hall Drill Leader' earned a full one hundred and thirty thousand contributions. This time..."

As He Zhenghao spoke, he suddenly noticed an extra person in the room.

The conversation abruptly stopped, and He Zhenghao looked at "Zhou Qing'ang" with embarrassment, feeling somewhat awkward.

On the other hand, Gao Yuan, with slightly narrowed eyes, showed no signs of panic at being caught exploiting his authority. Instead, he smiled and greeted "Zhou Qing'ang" warmly, "Friend Zhou, it's been a long time. Perfect timing to come and help us strategize!"

Saying that, he warmly pulled Zhou Qing'ang, explaining the vacant positions in Congyun City in detail.

Chapter 572: Flourishing Era, Myriads of Insects Born

Both of them looked at Li Fan with eager eyes, awaiting his answer.

This move instantly resolved the awkward situation between him and He Zhenghao and dispelled the estrangement between him and Zhou Qing'ang, who he hadn't seen for a long time. Moreover, it drew him into their alliance.

Even Li Fan, who had been mingling in official circles for hundreds of years, couldn't help but praise, "Beautiful."

Smirking at the two, he chose not to be the righteous one who would report and expose them. After pretending to contemplate for a moment, he slammed the table, "Eighty thousand contribution points?"

"Still too low! Fixed price, one hundred and sixty thousand contribution points! Take it or leave it!"

Unexpectedly, Zhou Qing'ang had a bigger appetite than him, doubling the price with a single mouthful.

He Zhenghao was dumbfounded.

However, after a moment, he regained his composure, smiling bitterly as he tried to persuade, "Friend Zhou, you may have just awakened from seclusion and might not be familiar with the current situation."

"The position of 'Alchemist Guild Examiner' can only be sold for a maximum of eighty thousand. After all, we, in the Congyun Sea, are not the only ones selling it. Others choose us because the prices here are low, and they can use it as a stepping stone."

"You just doubled it suddenly..."

He Zhenghao shook his head, "With that kind of money, why wouldn't others go to Luo Yanzhou or other more prosperous places?"

Gao Yuan also nodded in agreement.

Li Fan coldly smiled as he appraised the two, a hint of sarcasm in his eyes, "I don't understand the situation? Do you two think that during my seclusion, I knew nothing about what was happening in the outside world? I think it's you two who are unclear about the situation now!"

Zhou Qing'ang's behavior this time was quite different from his usual style of doing things. Zhou Qing'ang was more stable, not someone who acted recklessly.

Could it be...

Gao Yuan and He Zhenghao exchanged a glance, both showing suspicion.

As the saying goes, if you don't do anything wrong, you won't be afraid of ghosts knocking on your door. Just with this simple sentence, the two were left dumbfounded.

He Zhenghao bowed forward, cautiously asking, "Friend Zhou, what are you referring to?"

Zhou Qing'ang didn't answer; he just glanced disdainfully at Gao Yuan.

A trace of anger flashed in Gao Yuan's eyes, but he quickly suppressed it, revealing a smiling face and adopting a posture of seeking advice.

At this point, Li Fan slowly spoke, "The battle in Tianlingzhou is coming to an end, and the war is about to calm down. Your special actions of buying and selling official positions during this chaotic period, where no one is in charge, are almost over!"

Once these words were spoken, both Gao Yuan and He Zhenghao were shocked, genuinely this time.

This wasn't an act.

After a brief shock, disbelief was evident in their eyes.

He Zhenghao hurriedly asked, "There has been no news about this matter. How did Friend Zhou know?"

"It's not that we don't believe you, but this involves a major event for the Immortal Alliance. Friend, please refrain from making unfounded statements." Gao Yuan added.

"How do I know?" Zhou Qing'ang squinted at the two, a cold light in his eyes.

"Of course, it's Lord Envoy who informed me!"

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 573: Greed Comes First

"Lord Envoy!"

"Lord Envoy!"

...

Although Zhou Qing'ang's voice was not loud, it sounded like a thunderbolt in the ears of He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan.

He Zhenghao was first stunned, then his face turned pale, "Lord Envoy has come out of seclusion? How come I didn't know?"

Gao Yuan also showed a horrified expression, looking unbelievably shocked.

However, Zhou Qing'ang's next words slightly eased their tension.

"Lord Envoy has not come out of seclusion yet..." Zhou Qing'ang said indifferently.

"But if some people think that their little actions can escape the notice of Lord Envoy during his seclusion, it's a bit ridiculous..."

Zhou Qing'ang's words seemed to imply something as he glanced at the two in the room.

Feeling guilty, He Zhenghao awkwardly said, "We all know that Lord Envoy's methods are extraordinary. Certainly, no one dares to deceive him!"

Gao Yuan, no longer wearing the composed look he had earlier, quickly thought, and seeing Zhou Qing'ang's unusual behavior after coming out of seclusion, he thought of more.

Suddenly sweating, he was extremely anxious.

His mind quickly turned, thinking of countermeasures, while mechanically nodding along with He Zhenghao.

Seeing that the two were still stubborn, Li Fan sneered.

So, he raised his voice several degrees, scolding, "You two, embezzling fundraising capital behind Lord Envoy's back; taking advantage of Lord Envoy's absence to act recklessly; disregarding the laws of the Immortal Alliance, selling official positions, gaining huge profits..."

"And all these things, do you two think you can hide them from the all-seeing eyes of Lord Envoy during his seclusion?"

"Why are you so confused!"

He Zhenghao felt as if he had been struck by lightning, trembling uncontrollably.

Gao Yuan's face also turned deathly pale. He opened his mouth but couldn't utter a single word.

"Hmph, don't think that Lord Envoy, on the surface, only has Golden Core cultivation. You should all understand the true extent of Lord Envoy's terror."

"Although he may not go out, he knows everything happening in the world. How can these dirty things in the small Congyun Sea escape his scrutiny?" Li Fan boasted.

"Since the time you, He Zhenghao, privately took the unclaimed fundraising capital, Lord Envoy has been watching you."

Hearing this, He Zhenghao's legs went weak, and he collapsed to the ground.

"I..." He Zhenghao opened his mouth to defend himself, but he tasted bitterness and couldn't say a word.

"Zhou Qing'ang" sighed softly, "But Lord Envoy doesn't care about these contribution points. You were the first cultivator to follow him since his awakening. So, Lord Envoy turned a blind eye."

"Consider it a reward for your hard work, He Zhenghao."

"But the things you've done in the last two years have greatly disappointed Lord Envoy."

"Zhou Qing'ang" spoke sternly, "Selling official positions, is that wrong? Many people in the Immortal Alliance do it. Lord Envoy also understands human affairs. So why would he stop you?"

"If you had honestly applied to Lord Envoy, perhaps he would have even helped you with this matter!"

"But you shouldn't have acted on your own in everything. The gains you made from selling various positions probably amount to over a million contribution points. Have you ever reported to Lord Envoy? These are violations of the laws of the Immortal Alliance. If one day it's exposed, the blame will definitely fall on Lord Envoy, the highest-ranking envoy in Congyun City."

"You are embezzling and even want Lord Envoy to be your scapegoat. It's truly despicable!" Zhou Qing'ang sternly declared.

Sitting on the ground, He Zhenghao felt extremely wronged at this moment.

Originally, he wanted to argue that before Lord Envoy left, he had repeatedly urged him not to disturb him unless it was something important.

Moreover, for embezzling funds and breaking the law, there is no reason to report to superiors. Isn't it better to die quickly?

But even if there were countless helplessness, at this moment, saying it out loud would be useless.

Looking back on his actions over the past two years, He Zhenghao felt as if he were in a dream.

The contribution points he had worked hard to earn and cherished immensely had turned into a string of numbers in his eyes.

Having lost the practical value of measurement.

Even if he spent over a hundred thousand contribution points in an instant, he wouldn't feel heartache.

With control over enormous contribution points, his mentality had unconsciously changed.

Originally, he had sworn to follow Lord Envoy, who might be on the verge of becoming an eternal Supreme, to create a career.

But now, everything seemed to have changed.

Originally vowed to follow behind Lord Envoy, who might be on the verge of becoming an eternal Supreme, and create a career.

Returning to Tianyu Province in a glorious manner, reconciling with Heng Ruoshui...

But as time passed, he found himself lost amid the praise of others and seemingly endless contribution points.

He forgot his lofty goals, only thinking about using more unsavory means to embezzle as many contribution points as possible for his own pleasure.

With enough contribution points, what kind of female cultivator couldn't he have?

At that time, he would even occasionally entertain such thoughts.

Now looking back, it indeed seemed quite ridiculous.

But at that time, he was deeply trapped, unable to extricate himself.

Scenes flashed through He Zhenghao's mind as if he had just been pulled out of the water, soaked through.

"How did I become like this?"

He Zhenghao's heart was full of confusion and regret.

"Lord Envoy will surely not spare me, right?"

He shuddered, seemingly seeing the image of himself being punished by Li Fan, meeting a tragic end.

However, a small hope still lingered in He Zhenghao's heart.

The reason was simple. Since the exposure of his wrongdoing and Lord Envoy's decision to punish him, based on Lord Envoy's past actions, he shouldn't have sent Zhou Qing'ang to talk so much.

Moreover, with Zhou Qing'ang's earnest persuasion just now, he even mentioned doubling the contribution points...

Thinking of this, He Zhenghao couldn't help but raise his head and look at Zhou Qing'ang.

Li Fan, watching the silent and despondent He Zhenghao, couldn't help but smile slightly. Finally, he spoke again, "Although your crimes are heinous, you were among the first group to follow Lord Envoy."

"Therefore, Lord Envoy has decided to give you another chance to make amends."

With these words, both He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan showed a glimmer of astonishing light in their eyes.

"Please, enlighten us, Lord Envoy."

Gao Yuan quickly bowed and inquired.

"As I just mentioned, the battle in Tianling Province is coming to an end."

"So, Lord Envoy's intention is..."

Li Fan paused, "Seize this last opportunity."

"Make another fortune!"

His resolute voice echoed in the hall, lingering for a long time.

Both men looked at each other in astonishment.

Looking at Zhou Qing'ang, a hint of suspicion appeared on their faces.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 574: A Clean Sweep

"Did Lord Envoy really say that?" He Zhenghao hesitated.

Gao Yuan also found it hard to believe, "It's widely known that Lord Envoy has profound knowledge in divination and various magical techniques. If he wants to accumulate wealth, couldn't he use any method? Why bother with actions like ours and risk losing our identity?"

"Zhou Qing'ang" sneered at their reactions, "The goals of Lord Envoy are not something you two can comprehend."

"But, to make you both truly convinced, I'll reveal a bit more inside information."

He lowered his voice and whispered, "Lord Envoy not only predicted that the Tianling Province battle is about to end, but he also foresaw that after the war, the Immortal Alliance, to recuperate quickly, has issued a command."

"What?" He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan were shaken, leaning in to listen.

"Zhou Qing'ang" slowly said, "All Immortal Alliance cultivators can purchase techniques from the Tianxuan Mirror at a discount."

"Although divination involving items like the Tianxuan Mirror may have some inaccuracies, according to Lord Envoy, it's close enough."

"Discounted technique purchases?" Both were taken aback.

Upon careful consideration, they realized there was precedent for this, though it seemed to have happened several hundred years ago. It was something they'd heard from older cultivators.

Considering the substantial contribution points needed to purchase cultivation techniques, for He Zhenghao and others, who might already possess tens of thousands or even over a hundred thousand contribution points, it might not be a big deal. However, for most cultivators, it was a significant sum that required considerable effort to accumulate.

If the Immortal Alliance indeed reopened discounted techniques, even if it was just 20% off, during this period of time, it would save a considerable amount of contribution points.

It was easy to imagine how crazy cultivators would be at that time. Even if they had to borrow from everywhere, they would gather enough contribution points to purchase techniques.

After careful consideration, He Zhenghao's eyes sparkled, feeling that this was an opportunity. However, the specific plan on how to take advantage of this rare opportunity and make a fortune was a bit blurry in his mind. He scratched his head, feeling itchy inside.

Unable to hold back, he urged, "Zhou friend, stop beating around the bush. Please explain in detail!"

Zhou Qing'ang smiled slightly, "Very simple! First, spread the news that the big battle is about to end, and everything will return to normal."

"After this opportunity is gone, there won't be another one. Those who want to use contribution points to secure official positions should hurry. There won't be such a good opportunity again!"

"Of course, it's also reasonable to raise the prices a bit, right?"

"Secondly, announce the reopening of the fundraising plan. This time, make it even more grand."

"Set a goal of a 200% return in five years, and there's no cap on the contribution points raised!"

As the long-time manager of the fundraising plan, He Zhenghao's eyelids jumped when he heard this. A 200% return in five years was something he believed Lord Envoy could definitely achieve. Moreover, considering the results of the previous fundraising and the position of Li Fan as the head of the Secret Envoy in the Cloud Sea City, this unlimited fundraising plan would undoubtedly attract unimaginable contribution points.

Especially for those cultivators who had repeatedly wanted to participate in Li Fan's wealth-building plan but were unable to do so for various reasons. After hearing this news, they would definitely rush to contribute their contribution points as soon as possible.

After all, five years wasn't a long time. It quickly passed, and after coming out, their wealth would instantly triple.

Such a good thing was hard to come by, even if you searched with a lantern! Moreover, Li Fan was also the highest administrative official in the Cloud Sea Region, so there was no need to worry about him running away!

"But in this way..." Gao Yuan also sensed the viciousness of this plan and a hint of unease flashed in his eyes.

"Not bad, both methods are aimed at emptying the pockets of cultivators in a short time," Zhou Qing'ang said with a self-satisfied tone. "When they send all the wealth they've painstakingly accumulated over the years to us, suddenly they hear that the Immortal Alliance has announced a technique discount plan."

"Although they know it's an opportunity not to be missed, they can't come up with any more spare contribution points."

"What? Want to retract and take back the contribution points? Well, it's possible, but there will be a penalty, right?"

"If you really have no money, it's okay; you can owe it first. Just use magic weapons or treasures as collateral."

"If you don't want to redeem it and want to take advantage of the discount to buy techniques, we can also lend you some! Everything is negotiable! The interest won't be much, capped at a reasonable 20% per year—very conscientious!"

...

Zhou Qing'ang laughed sinisterly, explaining his plan at length, causing cold sweats for He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan.

When he finally finished his elaborate explanation of the plan, Gao Yuan couldn't help but ask, "Lord Envoy's plan is indeed ingenious, but there's one thing I don't understand. Please enlighten me, Zhou friend."

Zhou Qing'ang tilted his head, looked at him, and remained silent for a moment.

Until Gao Yuan seemed a bit frightened, he spoke, "Hehe, we've been colleagues for many years. Brother Gao, just say what's on your mind!"

"From my observation of Lord Envoy's temperament, he's not someone who particularly values wealth. So, why this sudden change, launching consecutive grand actions?"

At this point, He Zhenghao also chimed in, "Exactly, is there a deeper plan behind this? I also think Lord Envoy wouldn't mobilize such an effort just for a few contribution points."

After pondering for a long time, Zhou Qing'ang remained silent, seemingly contemplating something.

Seeing this, He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan instantly knew they had guessed correctly. Their hearts lifted, becoming somewhat hopeful.

After a while, Zhou Qing'ang finally made a decision and directly transmitted his voice with divine consciousness, "Lord Envoy didn't explicitly tell me, and this is my own speculation. Consider it a joke, don't take it seriously!"

Both nodded repeatedly, indicating they understood.

"It's very likely that Hongxi and Ziyun, the two Nascent Soul cultivators, are returning to the Cloud Sea."

He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan trembled slightly, seemingly figuring it out in an instant.

"Not only that, those Nascent Soul cultivators who were transferred from the Heavenly Island's Oracle Hall and Formation Hall are probably also returning to the Cloud Sea soon."

"Lord Envoy was after all a parachute drop, with a shallow foundation. Moreover, he's only at the Golden Core stage. Faced with those experienced Nascent Soul cultivators, he might not fare well."

"So, Lord Envoy wants to build momentum through this method. If the speculation is true and they do come back, Lord Envoy might announce the cancellation of the cultivators' debts to win their hearts."

"If the speculation is wrong, then Lord Envoy still gains a lot without much loss."

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 575: Endgame in the Cloud Sea

"Zhou Qing'ang" explained his speculation in detail. Gao Yuan couldn't help but applaud, "If this plan succeeds, I'm afraid the vast majority of cultivators in the Cloud Sea will benefit from Lord Envoy's favor."

"Even if Hongxi and Ziyun, the two Nascent Soul cultivators, return and want to challenge Lord Envoy, they'll have to consider the consequences."

"Lord Envoy indeed thinks carefully, taking one step at a time. It's beyond our ability to speculate."

The seemingly simple wealth-collecting plan unexpectedly had many twists and turns. He Zhenghao couldn't help but sigh, "Both of them are truly admirable."

However, they had no awareness that they overlooked the most crucial aspect of this seemingly plausible plan – whether Li Fan could actually achieve a "200% return in five years."

Perhaps it was due to Li Fan's display of incredible abilities before, subtly brainwashing them. Or maybe, their self-imagined Li Fan, fallen Heavenly Sovereign, had built such trust in his abilities that they didn't need to question it.

In any case, they had no doubt that Li Fan could achieve the goal of this fundraising plan.

But tripling the contribution points in five years?

How could it be difficult for the esteemed Lord Envoy?

But in reality...

Even if Li Fan had cycled through the Cloud Sea for countless lifetimes and had profound foresight, this time, it was truly impossible.

It wasn't his incompetence; it was just that when assets inflated to a certain extent, doubling them again became exponentially more challenging.

In plain terms, Li Fan was merely a speculator making profits through buying and selling at different prices, not a creator of wealth.

He wasn't like the Immortal Alliance, capable of generating contribution points without limits.

A few million contribution points, under his operation, might be reluctantly doubled.

But if it were several hundred million or even over a billion...

Unless there was another world-shaking war between the Immortal Alliance or the Five Elders, and he could foresee it in advance.

However, it didn't matter if it couldn't be achieved.

From the beginning, he hadn't planned to fulfill the promised profits.

That's why this fundraising had to be closed for five years.

After five years, with the raging flames and burning seas, the Cloud Sea would become a dead zone.

If they all died, these debts naturally wouldn't need to be repaid.

Rather than waiting for them to die and the contribution points being reclaimed by the Immortal Alliance, it was better to make use of Li Fan.

So, Li Fan felt no psychological pressure at all.

As for the return of Lan Cang, Hao Xuan Immortal Lord, and several Nascent Soul cultivators, although it was a fact, it was just a pretext to deceive He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan.

Whether they returned or not, Li Fan truly didn't care.

As long as they dared to return to the Cloud Sea, they would probably not escape the fate of "death."

Li Fan even hoped that Zhang Zhiliang and other familiar formation masters would live longer in this life.

Various thoughts flashed through his mind. At this moment, "Zhou Qing'ang" spoke to He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan again, "You two have disappointed Lord Envoy once. Be sure not to waste this last opportunity to restore his image!"

"Make sure to handle Lord Envoy's plan properly this time."

Both nodded in agreement.

They also understood that if the two Nascent Soul Immortal Lords returned, and Li Fan fell from power, as key figures cultivated by Li Fan, their fate wouldn't be good either.

Regardless of how loyal they were, even for their own future, they had to work hard and take this seriously.

However, Gao Yuan was still more cautious in his actions.

After hesitating for a while, before leaving, he carefully asked Zhou Qing'ang, "Friend Zhou, do you have Lord Envoy's credentials?"

"It's not that we don't trust you, but after all, this involves a major issue..."

"Zhou Qing'ang" chuckled and was about to respond.

Chapter 575: The Final Situation in the Cloud Sea

Two unusual fluctuations suddenly emanated from the storage rings of He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan.

The two of them recalled something, their expressions changing.

They quickly took out the sources of the disturbance and the two "Divine Separation Jade Slips" that Li Fan had given them before entering seclusion.

The two clone jade slips flew into the air and unexpectedly merged into one.

From the faint figure, Li Fan's voice came, "What you said is not wrong. Considering the significance of the matter, I indeed need to show up."

Seeing Li Fan suddenly appear, both He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan felt a sense of panic.

They immediately bowed down, calling out, "Greetings, Lord Envoy!"

At the same time, they were extremely nervous.

Because Li Fan's words just now clearly meant that he had seen everything in their conversation with Zhou Qing'ang, from the beginning of Lord Envoy's seclusion, controlling their every move!

The two were extremely fearful, bowing with their heads on the ground without Li Fan's command, not daring to raise their heads.

"He Zhenghao!"

"Present!" He Zhenghao quickly responded.

"All the cultivators who participated in the fundraising plan before, select some representatives. We'll meet in ten days. I'll explain the five-year plan in person and ease your worries." Li Fan said in a deep voice.

Seeing that Li Fan had a task for him, He Zhenghao felt a sense of joy and immediately agreed.

"Gao Yuan!"

"Here!" Gao Yuan's response was somewhat trembling.

"Compile a list of the fallen cultivators from the Cloud Sea in the recent battle in Tianling Prefecture. Submit it to me in ten days."

Gao Yuan also hurriedly agreed.

The light on the Divine Separation Jade Slip in the air became dimmer and finally disappeared from sight.

With a click, it fell to the ground, accompanied by Li Fan's last words, "Remember, when I'm not here, Zhou Qing'ang can act as my full representative. His words are my orders!"

Zhou Qing'ang bowed slightly, thanking Lord Envoy repeatedly, revealing an undisguised look of pride.

He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan, seeing this, couldn't help but feel sour and regretful, "Originally, Lord Envoy's trust belonged to me!"

But they didn't dare to complain and nodded in compliance.

With Li Fan personally appearing, it confirmed the truth of Zhou Qing'ang's plan.

Under Li Fan's command, He Zhenghao and Gao Yuan, who had been chastened, executed Li Fan's will meticulously.

After years of operation, they were more efficient in controlling Cloud City than Li Fan himself.

Under their manipulation, the news of the upcoming end of the major battle and the new fundraising plan spread among the cultivators in the Cloud Sea in almost a single day.

While causing a great sensation, it also stirred people's hearts.

Countless messages were sent to He Zhenghao, asking about the truth of the matter.

He Zhenghao naturally embellished the story.

Ten days later, a group of cultivators gathered, waiting for Li Fan's arrival.

(End of this chapter)