283-284 (13.7k)

Chapter 283: Entering the Demon Palace

"Immortal Lord, this Wu Yuan will definitely not disappoint you," Xiong Yuan Protector said solemnly. "His strength is so formidable, he definitely qualifies to compete for the Immortal Country-level Blood Refining Seeds."

"At least, among the millions of Gold Core disciples in our Red Moon branch, he is hard to match," Xiong Yuan Protector added.

Clearly, after Dragon Daoist's detailed introduction and watching the battle images, Xiong Yuan Protector had immense confidence in Wu Yuan.

"Hard to match?"

"Now, in our Red Moon branch, there are a total of more than eighty Blood Refining Seeds, all belonging to the Immortal Island level, which is the second level of Blood Refining Seeds," the indifferent voice said. "I have watched Wu Yuan's battle images, and they are indeed impressive."

"However, over the long years, I only believe in seeing is believing," the indifferent voice continued. "I hope his strength is no different from his performance in the projection."

"Go."

"Yes." Xiong Yuan Protector respectfully withdrew.

...

In the Xia Mountain world, Cloud Capital of Central Earth.

Inside the imperial city, a family gathered together.

"Leaving the Xia Mountain world, for how many years? Maybe a hundred or a thousand? And it's happening soon?" Mother Wan Qin heard this news.

She was stunned.

For decades, as the Empress Dowager of the Wu Kingdom, Wan Qin had lived a comfortable life, and her horizons were also broadened. Although she had no talent in martial arts, Wu Yuan had spent many treasures to enhance her physical qualities, making her body no less than that of a top-notch expert.

Although over seventy years old, at first glance, Wan Qin was not much different from a middle-aged woman in her forties.

However, no matter how broadened her horizons were, Wan Qin was ultimately an ordinary woman. In her old age, how could she willingly let her only son go far away?

Wu Yuan also sighed in his heart.

No choice!

In fact, in Wu Yuan's earliest thoughts, he planned to wait until his mother reached a hundred years old, and his Body Refining Avatar probably entered the Mountain and River Realm.

Then he would leave the Xia Mountain world and explore the world.

As long as his parents were still alive, he wouldn't go too far, and his journeys would have a purpose.

Perhaps, this might not be the most advantageous plan for cultivation, but sometimes, it was a choice that would leave no regrets in life.

However, things seldom go as planned.

Who could predict the dramatic changes in the Xia Mountain world?

"Mother, Big Brother has no choice." Wu Yuan also sighed.

No choice!

In fact, in Wu Yuan's earliest thoughts, he planned to wait until his mother reached a hundred years old, and his Body Refining Avatar probably entered the Mountain and River Realm.

Then he would leave the Xia Mountain world and explore the world.

As long as his parents were still alive, he wouldn't go too far, and his journeys would have a purpose.

Perhaps, this might not be the most advantageous plan for cultivation, but sometimes, it was a choice that would leave no regrets in life.

However, things seldom go as planned.

Who could predict the dramatic changes in the Xia Mountain world?

"Mother, Big Brother has no choice." Wu Yuan also sighed.

In reality, the best-case scenario for him, in the Xia Mountain world, was to stay low-key, cultivate steadily, and live a peaceful life with his family.

However, the sudden appearance of the Blood Refining Demon Palace disrupted everything.

"Mother, things aren't as bad as you think."

Wu Yuan squeezed out a smile on his face. "By joining the Blood Refining Demon Palace, I gained their attention, and my status will be high. This way, I will have more opportunities to obtain treasures that can extend your life."

"In the future, I will find a way to bring back treasures that can extend your life, Mother," Wu Yuan looked at his mother.

For powerful cultivators, extending the life of ordinary people is not difficult. However, the natural laws govern the turning of the heavens and the earth, imposing invisible constraints. Typically, the limit for extending the life of ordinary people is around two hundred years, and the required treasures are extraordinary, often unavailable in the Xia Mountain world.

If one desires a longer life, a transformation at the level of life is required, reaching realms like the Sea of Qi or Golden Core, where external treasures are not the only factors. It heavily depends on personal cultivation.

From what Wu Yuan knew, to make his mother, who had no cultivation talent, reach the Sea of Qi would require a cost even a Refining Void Realm expert would find hard to bear. Achieving the Golden Core Realm would be an insurmountable task for even Immortals.

Even some unimaginable supreme beings from legends couldn't turn an ordinary person into an immortal. If someone lacks talent and doesn't put in enough effort, relying solely on external treasures will eventually reach its limits.

This is the cruelty of the path to immortality. While an individual may attain enlightenment, benefitting friends and family, they ultimately cannot ascend to immortality.

"Mother, do you hear me?" Wu Yijun also consoled, "Big Brother is leaving not only for himself but also for you and the entire Central Earth."

"I understand. I'm not that old and confused yet. A man's achievements span far and wide, but..." Wan Qin sat in her chair, shaking her head, sighing, "You two siblings, all these years, not one of you has married, and there are no descendants."

Wu Yuan and Wu Yijun were both stunned but soon burst into laughter.

Indeed, Wu Yuan's rapid growth along his journey made it nearly impossible for him to find a woman in Central Earth who could catch his eye. As for Wu Yijun, she had always regarded her brother as a role model since childhood and had diligently cultivated. Now, she was already one of the youngest Heaven List experts in Central Earth.

How many men could catch her eye?

So, the two siblings have not married to this day.

...Wan Qin only made a few remarks and did not truly obstruct Wu Yuan's departure. Because she had a high perspective, despite being a mortal, she knew a thing or two about the immortal and demonic worlds, understanding that Wu Yuan's choice was correct.

She understood even more that her son was already a divine being, not bound by common laws.

After bidding farewell to his mother, Wu Yuan and his sister Wu Yijun returned to Tianwu Mountain, activating the formation.

"Xiaoyi, these things are for you. They're all yours now," Wu Yuan turned his palm and handed two storage treasures to his sister.

Wu Yijun was momentarily stunned, took them, and probed with her divine sense. Immediately, she was shocked, widened her eyes, and couldn't help but say, "Big Brother, are these treasures all for me?"

The value of these several storage rings was over ten thousand Source Crystals, including various treasures worth thousands of Source Crystals. For Wu Yijun, who was at the Sea of Qi Second Stage, this was an unimaginable fortune.

"Yes, they're for you," Wu Yuan nodded, smiling, "You're my only sister. If not for you, then who? Originally, I planned to give them to you slowly, but now there's no time."

"Other treasures are for your cultivation. In the future, if there are talented individuals among the family's descendants, you can also nurture them as needed," Wu Yuan said.

Over the past few decades, although Wu Yuan and his sister had no offspring, the entire Wu Clan prospered immensely. Martial practitioners emerged in abundance, and there were even several Martial Grandmasters.

Listening carefully, Wu Yijun understood. She knew that her brother was making final arrangements.

"As for those Source Crystals, aside from what you need for your own cultivation, they are mainly used to supply those two Golden Core puppets," Wu Yuan said. "You've already contracted with the two puppets, and from now on, they will silently protect you and safeguard the power of our Wu Clan."

"Mm," Wu Yijun nodded.

Of the eight Golden Core realm puppets, Wu Yuan only revealed six to the outside world. These were all meant to be handed over to the Central Earth Guards. The remaining two were hidden by Wu Yuan and later entrusted to Wu Yijun when she became a Qi Refiner.

This was Wu Yuan's arrangement for his family.

"I will convene a meeting of the Central Earth Guards, announce the abdication decree, and declare you as the Empress," Wu Yuan touched Wu Yijun's hair. "Empress."

"Me as the Empress?" Wu Yijun's pupils contracted slightly, unable to resist saying, "But the Clan Leader, the Elders, they all have their own thoughts."

She never expected her big brother to pass the throne to her.

"I will appoint Fang Xia as the Alliance Leader, but as for the Wu Clan's throne, you will take it," Wu Yuan said indifferently. "I have never cared about the thoughts of Wu Mao and Wu Qiming. In this world, strength decides everything."

"I will give orders, and the entire Tengshe Guard will obey your commands."

"Those people in the Wu Clan won't cause a stir," Wu Yuan said indifferently.

People's hearts can change. Over the past few decades, a massive interest group had formed around Wu Mao and Wu Qiming within the Wu Clan, all eyeing the throne because they knew that Wu Yuan, being a cultivator, would eventually abdicate. With Wu Yuan having no offspring, many within the Wu Clan thought about adopting Wu Yuan's descendants to secure the future inheritance.

Unfortunately, Wu Yuan never had such intentions.

"Xiaoyi, in Central Earth, there are very few people I genuinely care about. Besides Mother, it's you," Wu Yuan whispered. "You becoming the Empress is also a test for you. If you're willing, you can hold the throne for two hundred or three hundred years; it's up to you."

"In the future, if I can unify the Xia Mountain..."

"If you're willing, you can rule the entire Xia Mountain," Wu Yuan smiled, painting a rosy future for his sister.

Wu Yijun held her breath; she had never thought that far.

"Within the Wu Clan, anyone who dares to defy you can be killed," Wu Yuan said. "You control the Tengshe Guard, coupled with your own strength, I believe the Central Earth Guards led by Fang Xia won't give you any trouble. However, you must also respect those Golden Core cultivators."

"If there's trouble, endure it for now."

"When I come back, we'll solve the problems together," Wu Yuan entrusted.

"Mm," Wu Yijun nodded, silently listening.

She was no longer a little girl; after decades of tempering, her skills were top-notch.

Only in front of her big brother did she appear like a little girl.

"However, it's better to be prepared just in case."

"Take this token," Wu Yuan flipped his palm and handed Wu Yijun the token from Dragon Taoist, saying, "This Dragon Taoist is on good terms with me, and I will entrust him with matters. If you encounter any problems in Central Earth that you can't solve, seek him out, and he will know what to do."

"If that doesn't work, just cleanse the entire Central Earth and start anew," a trace of coldness flashed in Wu Yuan's eyes.

Although there was the divine virtual jade of the Blood Refinement Immortal Realm, it required Golden Core realm strength to use. Therefore, no one in the Wu Clan could use it.

Although Wu Yuan left a piece for his sister Wu Yijun, how many years would it take for her to be able to use it? Even a hundred years would be too little.

After arranging everything for his family, Wu Yuan summoned Fang Xia.

The general situation.

Wu Yuan had already informed Fang Xia through the Central Earth Immortal Palace.

"Old Fang, I'm leaving the entire Central Earth to you."

Wu Yuan looked at Fang Xia and said, "The six Golden Core puppets, the Yanqing Palace, and the treasury of the Central Earth Guards are all in your hands."

Fang Xia was one of the people Wu Yuan trusted most in Central Earth, second only to his family.

In terms of strength, Fang Xia was also one of the few geniuses in Central Earth who had hopes of reaching the Purple Mansion Realm.

The Purple Mansion Realm had extremely high requirements for the understanding of the Dao.

Wu Yuan left some means for his sister Wu Yijun just in case.

If they were to really fight, Wu Yijun wouldn't be a match for Fang Xia.

"Young Master, the Blood Refinement Demon Palace is extremely dangerous, and the path to immortality is arduous. You must take care on this journey. With your presence, the future Lord of Xia Mountain, the entire Central Earth will benefit. If you fall, relying on us won't be enough to safeguard Central Earth."

Fang Xia said, "As for the minor matters in Central Earth, leave them to me. I will report regularly to the Young Master through the Blood Refinement Immortal Realm."

Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

Fang Xia's judgment had always been accurate and remained so to this day.

Fang Xia said solemnly, "I will continue to implement the original strategy and prepare for the matters of the Young Master's faith in the future. I will also consult the opinions of the Empress on various matters."

"Mm," Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

He trusted Fang Xia.

"Old Fang, my strength in the vast Blood Refinement Demon Palace is nothing special. I joined because of my high talent, which garnered some attention. I still have to participate in the Blood Refinement Battle, and life and death are unpredictable," Wu Yuan slowly said. "Therefore, I won't be able to return to Central Earth in the short term."

"In the future."

"Whether it's a few decades or a hundred years, when my position in the Blood Refinement Demon Palace is high enough, I will find a way to help you."

"I will do my best to assist you in stepping into the Purple Mansion Realm."

Wu Yuan continued, "If the entire Central Earth human race wants to unify Xia Mountain and truly become powerful, relying solely on me is not enough."

"Tell Jibei and Shanmo as well."

"Compared to outsiders, I will naturally trust you all more," Wu Yuan entrusted, "Practice diligently, guard Central Earth well, and don't let me down."

"I won't let you down either," Wu Yuan looked at Fang Xia.

This was Wu Yuan's sincere words, a promise, or one could say, a promise to let Fang Xia and the others feel at ease.

Fang Xia nodded.

...

Although he had told Dragon Taoist and Master Jing Shan "two hours," the actual time spent by Wu Yuan was much longer.

After arranging everything.

He alone once again set foot in many regions of Central Earth, Jiangzhou, Chuzhou, Minzhou, Zhongzhou... and revisited the remnants of the Insect Demon Battle in Huangzhou.

Traveling through all thirteen provinces.

"It's time to go."

"In my previous life, I lived in the Blue Star World for less than thirty years," Wu Yuan returned to Cloud Capital, overlooking the bustling scenery below, silently in his heart, "In this life, my time living in Central Earth has exceeded thirty-five years."

In terms of emotions, Wu Yuan's feelings for Central Earth were no less than his feelings for the Blue Star civilization in his previous life.

Unlike when he left with the original body in the past.

The only two original bodies at that time, with the physical refining body staying in Central Earth, it was as if he had never left, and there wasn't much feeling.

But this time.

"The Xia Mountain world is a Blood Refinement world."

"Even if the Physical Refining original body becomes a Supreme Immortal, it is difficult to set foot in the Xia Mountain world."

"And now, when the Physical Refining original body goes there, it won't be long before it has to participate in the Blood Refinement Battle. Once gone, life and death are unknown," Wu Yuan sighed inwardly.

Although confident in his own strength, Wu Yuan was well aware of the brutality of the Blood Refinement Battle.

Who could guarantee survival? Even if he successfully came out alive, when he returned to Xia Mountain, who knew when it would be? Perhaps everything had changed.

"Let's go!"

"I've done what I can."

"In one's lifetime, it's only about parting and reuniting. Every time we part, we don't know when we'll meet again, and we don't know if we'll ever meet again."

"So, in this life, it's impossible to be without regrets, only to seek no regrets," Wu Yuan told himself that he had done his best.

Swoosh!

Wu Yuan suppressed many thoughts, streaked across the sky towards the direction of Minzhou, not moving too fast.

Wu Yuan wanted to take it slow, to take another good look at this mountain and river that he had guarded for decades.

"Master, don't worry, I will accompany you all the way!"

Little Black shrank down, coiling on Wu Yuan's arm, its two small eyes wide open.

It was very excited.

Snakes were cold-blooded, and although Little Black was extremely dependent on Wu Yuan, it didn't have deep feelings for other people in Central Earth. Moreover, it had long wanted to go out and explore, to see the magnificent world full of struggles in its inherited memories.

"Yes, I still have Little Black always accompanying me," Wu Yuan smiled.

"Let the two of us brothers go together to see what this so-called Blood Refinement Demon Palace is, and who can stop us."

In the spring of the 3261st year of Dongwu, the 29th year of the Immortal Wu era, the Lord of Central Earth and the founding Emperor of Wu Nation, Wu Yuan, left Central Earth alone.

In this year.

The tens of billions of subjects of the Immortal Wu Empire also welcomed the second emperor—Empress Wu Yijun.

The Central Earth Guards also ushered in their second Alliance Leader—Fang Xia.

However, whether it was Wu Nation or the Central Earth Guards, they still implemented the existing strategies, and Wu Yuan's prestige did not diminish with his departure. On the contrary, as time went by, his reputation grew.

Until it became a myth!

...

After leaving Central Earth, Wu Yuan reunited with Dragon Taoist and Master Jing Shan, swiftly heading south along the coastal areas.

Traveling for a full six million miles, they directly traversed the entire Xia Mountain continent.

In the end.

In the vast sea area, a large floating palace, covering a considerable area, appeared in the sight of Wu Yuan, Dragon Taoist, and the others.

"What is that?" Wu Yuan was slightly stunned.

"Wu Yuan Daoist friend, our Xia Mountain world has just recovered, so the Demon Palace is only remote-controlled, not directly commanding. There is only one team stationed in Xia Mountain, and a teleportation array has been constructed," Dragon Taoist smiled, "This teleportation array can directly lead to the 'Red Moon Branch' of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace."

Wu Yuan listened.

Although he knew the general information about the Blood Refinement Demon Palace, many details still needed to be explored on his own.

At this moment.

Swoosh! From the floating palace in the distance, several figures flew out, each with extraordinary aura, all of them were Golden Core cultivators.

The leader, an old man in black robes, was even at the Ninth Stage of Golden Core.

They all wore uniform black armor, appearing solemn and dignified.

"Master Long Xiang, Master Jing Shan." The old man in black robes slightly bowed, then smiled at Wu Yuan, "This must be the Wu Yuan Daoist friend specially entrusted by the upper realm."

"Wu Yuan Daoist friend, this is 'He Feng Shangren,' responsible for supervising the entire Xia Mountain world and stationed at the teleportation array," Dragon Taoist introduced.

"He Feng Daoist friend." Wu Yuan smiled and didn't dare to underestimate the other party.

In terms of strength, He Feng was nothing special, but his status was very unique, representing the authority of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace in the Xia Mountain world.

"Wu Yuan Daoist friend has overwhelming strength, and your exceptional talent is beyond our reach. In the future, becoming a son of the Demon Palace, or even ascending to immortality, is hopeful," the old man in black robes said with a smile, "Just hope that when the time comes, Daoist friend can take care of us a bit."

As elite experts who emerged from the Blood Refinement Battle, the old man in black robes looked down on ordinary Golden Core cultivators.

Even Dragon Taoist and Master Jing Shan had a trace of disdain in the old man's heart.

But Wu Yuan? Hearing a bit, he didn't dare to underestimate him at all.

"Alright, the protector is waiting at the other end of the teleportation array. Wu Yuan Daoist friend, let's not delay any longer," the old man in black robes said, "Let's depart as soon as possible."

"Okay." Wu Yuan had no objections.

"Wu Yuan Daoist friend, we can only send you here," Dragon Taoist and Master Jing Shan spoke successively.

As non-official disciples of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace, they couldn't use the teleportation array without special reasons.

Leaving the Xia Mountain world privately?

That's a death sentence!

"My hometown, trouble you two to take care of it." Wu Yuan arched his hand, "In the future, there will be a return."

"Daoist friend, rest assured." Master Jing Shan said continuously.

"In Central Earth, there will definitely be no problems." Dragon Taoist even said directly, "Inside the Starry Group Tower, I will further spread the deeds of Daoist friend."

Soon.

With a soaring light rising from the palace, the teleportation array activated, and Wu Yuan's aura disappeared without a trace.

In the sky above the sea outside the floating palace.

"Senior Dragon, our mission is finally completed." Master Jing Shan sighed in relief when he saw the teleportation array activate.

"The mission is completed."

"Just." Dragon Taoist sighed lightly, with a hint of worry in his eyes, "The wait has just begun."

...

The Blood Refinement Demon Palace is a huge and unimaginable superpower, comparable to the entire Hengyang Immortal Realm.

It is spread across the entire Qingling Great Realm.

"Many immortal nations and countless immortal islands have branches of it."

"In the temporal range led by the Crimson Moon Immortal Island, the Red Moon Branch of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace is only a second-level branch, but it is one of the three top forces alongside the Crimson Moon Immortal Palace."

"The Red Moon Branch not only commands a few immortal islands on the main continent, but also has some vast special worlds."

"The majority of disciples in the Demon Palace are selected from millions of subordinate small worlds."

"The entire Crimson Moon Immortal Island, the main continent of the dimension, is occupied by the Crimson Moon Immortal Palace."

"And nearly eighty percent of the countless small worlds derived from the immortal islands are led by the Blood Refinement Demon Palace."

"Managing millions of small worlds is a very complicated task, naturally, it will be assigned to numerous immortals."

"The original Blood World."

"With a maximum diameter of about two hundred million miles, as a huge world, it is not a result of the evolution of heaven and earth, but was opened up by the celestial immortals of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace."

"Specially cultivating disciples from various small worlds, internally housing millions of Golden Core disciples, and a large number of Violet Mansion cultivators."

"Especially nearing the Blood Refinement Battle, there are even more terrifying numbers of Golden Core cultivators from various small worlds."

"The entire original Blood World has ten super-large teleportation arrays, operating day and night."

"The sixth teleportation array is towering and spans thousands of miles, suspended in the void."

"Everyone stand in position."

"Take your identity tokens and recognize the owner of your divine soul. Remember, those without recognized owners will be obliterated."

"In the Blood Refinement Battle, your token is your life."

"Lose the token, and you lose your life."

"No running around."

"Wait for orders and go to the Blood Refinement waiting area." Cold and indifferent voices echoed in this vast void.

In the void.

Around the huge super-large teleportation array palace, various regions were divided, and more than half of the regions were empty.

Nearly half of the regions were waiting for large groups of cultivators, wearing various costumes and having different appearances.

But more than half were humans, with many demonic cultivators, and a few were in the form of demonic beasts.

In each area, there were hundreds to thousands of cultivators, mainly in the Sea of Qi Realm, with very few in the Golden Core Realm.

Violet Mansion Realm? None at all.

The most conspicuous was one of the regions, densely packed with cultivators. At a glance, there were over ten thousand cultivators in this area alone.

There were hundreds of Golden Core cultivators in just this one region.

Just this one area was equivalent to the sum of dozens of other areas.

"Senior brother, is this the legendary Blood Refinement World?" A young woman in a green robe stood in the center of hundreds of Golden Core cultivators.

Her eyes had been curiously scanning in all directions.

"Surrounding her are more than ten figures, all dressed exactly the same."

"They are in the center of the group."

"And some Golden Core cultivators with disheveled attire nearby look at them with awe. Among the over ten thousand cultivators in this area, they are vaguely regarded as leaders."

"Apparently, these more than ten Golden Core cultivators have a very high status and likely come from a massive sect."

"It's not, according to what our master said, this is the original Blood World." The bald young man in a green robe sitting cross-legged in the void spoke softly, "We will wait here for three years. After three years, when the geniuses from billions of worlds gather, we will enter the Blood Refinement World together."

"His status seems to be the highest, and he seems to have a deep understanding of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace."

"Senior brother, wait for three years? Isn't that too long?" Another elder in a purple robe said in a deep voice, "Why did our sect rush us over here?"

"We could have practiced for a few more years in the sect."

"Yeah!"

"Three years is too long." Several other Golden Core cultivators from the same sect couldn't help but speak. Although they were Golden Core cultivators with a long lifespan, waiting for three years was still quite long.

"Haven't you all heard what our master said?"

The bald young man in the center glanced at them, "We are all at the ninth level of Golden Core."

"Arriving early, when entering the stationed area, will give us enough time to apply to challenge the 'Dark Star.' There will be benefits for each level we pass."

"As long as we can pass the fourth level, we will gain many benefits."

"Some treasures can be brought into the Blood Refinement World, greatly enhancing our vitality." The bald young man spoke softly.

"But there's no need to come so early." The first green-robed woman to speak gritted her teeth, "One year in advance is sufficient."

"Foolish!"

The bald young man shook his head, "Wait until it's close to a year, and countless Golden Core cultivators from over a million worlds will be sent here. By then, tens of millions of Golden Core cultivators will all want to apply to challenge the Dark Star."

"When are we supposed to wait until?"

"Can't say for sure, if you're too late to challenge, you'll have to participate in the Blood Refinement Battle."

"Stay calm, everyone." The bald young man said solemnly.

The more than ten Golden Core cultivators beside him all nodded. As disciples carefully cultivated by the sect, they were well-informed.

"Senior brother, how long do we have to wait here?" A Golden Core cultivator asked in confusion, "It's been over a day already."

"Don't be impatient!"

"Be patient."

The bald young man said indifferently, "Our goal is to seize a hundred Blood Demon Tokens. We not only want to become disciples of the Demon Palace but also elite disciples."

"Only by becoming elite disciples can the probability of becoming Violet Mansion cultivators in the future greatly increase."

The more than ten Golden Core cultivators brightened up at his words.

Most of the Golden Core cultivators in the countless small worlds under the command of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace are unwilling to participate in the Blood Refinement Battle. They are forcibly conscripted.

However, many elite cultivators from small worlds choose to actively participate.

Most of them hope to break through the siege in the Blood Refinement Battle, leverage the resources of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace, and become stronger.

The Blood Refinement Battle.

It is a calamity and an opportunity.

Suddenly—swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh! In the distant mist-covered void, the mist suddenly dissipated, and more than ten powerful figures appeared in the sky.

"Especially the leading figure in the blood-red robe, standing there, as if at the center of the entire world."

"It makes people's hearts tremble."

"They?"

"Senior Brother, what is that?"

"I feel like they are much stronger than Master." These more than ten Golden Core cultivators in green robes couldn't help but look up.

Not just them.

In the hundreds of areas near the sixth teleportation array, tens of thousands of cultivators couldn't help but look up at this moment, each with a flash of fear in their eyes.

The gap is too big.

This is the inherent gap in the level of life.

At this moment, another scene that shocked countless cultivators appeared in their field of vision.

Only to see the dozens of Violet Mansion Daoists responsible for supervising them around the teleportation array all bowing respectfully at the same time, "Greetings, Immortal."

Immortal?

In that instant, countless cultivators in the Qi Sea Realm and Golden Core Realm who looked up all widened their eyes, a sense of shock difficult to express in their hearts.

Immortal!

Countless small worlds have legends about immortals, but they are just legends.

In endless years, the vast majority of worlds cannot give birth to immortals.

At least, of the tens of thousands of cultivators who came to the original Blood World through the teleportation array, not a single one had seen an immortal.

Even the more than ten Ninth-level Golden Core cultivators from the same powerful sect were shocked and looked at the blood-red figure. They had never seen an immortal either.

Because.

Their sect's ancestor, the strongest in the vast world of tens of millions of miles in history, has just stepped into the Void Refinement Realm.

The Void Refinement Realm and immortals, seemingly only differ by one realm, but in reality, it is a world of difference.

"Why are immortals here?"

"I don't know."

"I'm seeing an immortal for the first time." Many of the countless cultivators about to participate in the battle were full of various doubts.

Not to mention them, in the void, dozens of Violet Mansion cultivators from the Blood Refinement Demon Palace were also puzzled.

Immortals, aloof and rarely come to these teleportation arrays.

At this moment.

"Swoosh!" In the distance, the huge teleportation array that spans thousands of miles flashed a dazzling light in the middle section, attracting the attention of many.

"Another world has sent people?"

"I wonder which world it is, and how many cultivators will come."

"No, something's wrong!"

"Just one, wearing a white robe."

"One person?" Many cultivators widened their eyes, finding it somewhat unbelievable.

"One cultivator? How weak must their world be to send only one Golden Core cultivator to participate in the Blood Refinement Battle?" But soon.

A large group of Violet Mansion cultivators, surrounding the young man in white, flew directly in front of the figure in the blood-red robe.

Everyone respectfully saluted.

"Wu Yuan, my name is Pu Yang." The middle-aged man in the blood-red robe smiled.

"Seen Immortal Pu Yang." Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

He also breathed a sigh of relief.

In fact, coming through the teleportation array, Wu Yuan still had some concerns, worrying that the Blood Refinement Demon Palace and Long Dao Ren's words might not match.

However, when he saw the immortal personally coming to meet him, he felt much more relieved.

With the strength of an immortal.

If they wanted to kill him, there was no need for so many tricks.

"Alright, I am just here in the name of Immortal to conduct a preliminary examination." Immortal Pu Yang smiled. "Wu Yuan, I can judge from your life breath that your foundation is very strong, probably of the Upper Third Rank."

"Your divine soul is also very strong."

Many Violet Mansion cultivators beside him were already trembling with excitement. Upper Third Rank foundation? For them, that was simply a legend.

"The information submitted by Protector Xiong Yuan is now confirmed."

Pu Yang Immortal smiled, "Regardless of how you perform in the Golden Core Dark Star assessment, as long as you swear to 'Taiyuan Divine Court,' you qualify to become an elite disciple of our Blood Refinement Demon Palace."

"This is the token."

Pu Yang Immortal waved his hand, and a token fell in front of Wu Yuan.

Wu Yuan reached out to take it. "Thank you, Immortal."

"I won't be involved in the follow-up matters. Xiong Yuan, it's up to you." Immortal Pu Yang looked at Wu Yuan again. "Wu Yuan, next, you can follow Protector Xiong Yuan."

"Just remember one thing, give it your all and don't disappoint the Immortals." Immortal Pu Yang entrusted.

"Yes." Wu Yuan nodded.

Don't disappoint the Immortals?

Although he was new and hadn't fully understood the cause and effect, Wu Yuan had communicated with Long Dao Ren and others before.

He knew that inside the Blood Refinement Demon Palace, many Immortals each commanded a large number of worlds, and the power struggle was intense.

Not only were these Immortals fighting, but their subordinates were also in conflict.

He, perhaps, had been classified under one of the Immortals.

Soon after.

Immortal Pu Yang led more than ten subordinates to leave quickly, leaving only a sturdy and burly man in black armor and several Violet Mansion cultivators.

"Wu Yuan, I am Protector Xiong Yuan." Protector Xiong Yuan revealed a seemingly simple and honest smile. "Follow me, we'll go to the Dark Star Space first."

"After passing the seven levels of Dark Star, I will tell you more in detail."

"Follow me." Protector Xiong Yuan directly led several Violet Mansion cultivators towards the distance.

Wu Yuan quickly followed.

Dark Star? Wu Yuan was completely ignorant, but since he had come to the Blood Refinement Demon Palace, everything had to be obedient.

"Farewell, Immortal."

"Farewell, Protector." Dozens of Violet Mansion cultivators guarding this void all respectfully saluted.

This scene made the hundreds of thousands of cultivators waiting below even more shocked.

They couldn't hear the conversation.

But they could see.

"That's just a Golden Core cultivator."

"Spiritual Body cultivator, with a powerful aura, but no matter how strong, it's only the Spiritual Body Realm."

"He's not wearing the attire of a Demon Palace disciple; he shouldn't be a disciple, just a newcomer."

"A newcomer, welcomed by an immortal on his first visit to the Demon Palace?" The hundreds of thousands of cultivators here whispered to each other.

What they witnessed today exceeded their understanding.

"Senior brother, who is that? Do you know?" someone in the gathering of more than ten Golden Core cultivators in blue robes couldn't help but ask.

"A genius!"

"An unparalleled genius."

"I think he's probably the type of genius mentioned by our Ancestor, the most outstanding among millions of Golden Core cultivators, with a status in the Demon Palace comparable to the Refining Void Protector."

"Now able to rival a protector, there's hope for him to become an immortal in the future." The blue-robed young man widened his eyes with curiosity and a hint of awe, saying in a low voice, "Remember his divine soul's aura."

"Remember it well!"

"In the future, if you encounter him in the Blood Refinement Battle, stay far away, as far as you can." The blue-robed young man said solemnly.

"Stay away? From an unparalleled genius?" These more than ten Golden Core cultivators were all stunned.

They had never seen their senior brother in such a state.

"Senior brother, how strong do you think he is?" the young woman in the blue robe asked weakly.

"I speculate that if we don't form a formation, he could easily slaughter thousands of us without a problem." The blue-robed young man said in a low voice.

A moment of silence.

These Golden Core cultivators widened their eyes.

One person, effortlessly slaughtering thousands of cultivators with their strength?

...

Swoosh! Swoosh! Wu Yuan and Protector Xiong Yuan flew ahead.

Four Violet Mansion cultivators followed behind them, but their faces showed no signs of discontent; there was no resentment in their hearts.

Because, before coming, they had heard from Protector Xiong Yuan.

The person they were about to meet had the potential to contend for the 'Level 1 Branch Blood Refinement Seed,' and they naturally understood what that meant.

He was one of the most top-tier geniuses!

And just now, the arrival of an immortal, the preliminary examination, further confirmed this point.

"Wu Yuan, your information, Xiang Long and Jing Shan have already reported to me, and I reported to Immortal Wu Tian." Protector Xiong Yuan said, "Immortal Wu Tian highly values you."

"He hopes you can become a Blood Refinement Seed." Protector Xiong Yuan continued.

"Blood Refinement Seed?" Wu Yuan looked puzzled.

"The Blood Refinement Battle is not just a simple training; it will also receive attention from countless higher-ups in our Blood Refinement Demon Palace." Protector Xiong Yuan explained, "The so-called Blood Refinement Seed represents disciples with extremely strong strength and great potential."

"They will receive special protection."

"Ordinary participants, once defeated, are undoubtedly dead."

"But Blood Refinement Seeds, even if they die in battle, will be moved to a safe area and given a chance to start anew." Protector Xiong Yuan said, "After all, talents of this level are still very rare, and while the training in our Blood Refinement Demon Palace is cruel, there is also consideration."

"A chance to start anew?" Wu Yuan's eyes lit up.

This kind of life-saving opportunity naturally had to be fought for.

"However, the requirements for Blood Refinement Seeds in the Demon Palace are very high." Protector Xiong Yuan continued, "In my Crimson Moon branch, there are thirty-six Immortals in charge of cultivating disciples and millions of small worlds."

"With over a million Golden Core disciples."

"In the upcoming Blood Refinement Battle, just in my Crimson Moon branch, there will be over a hundred million Golden Core cultivators gathering."

Over a million? Over a hundred million Golden Core cultivators?

Hearing this, Wu Yuan wasn't too surprised.

It should be noted that sects like the Dragon Star Immortal Sect, just one of dozens on the Crimson Moon Immortal Continent, had over ten million Golden Core disciples.

Not to mention the Blood Refinement Demon Palace?

Wu Yuan also understood the difference between these two sets of data.

The over a million disciples directly cultivated by the Blood Refinement Demon Palace likely had generally stronger strength.

On the other hand, the over a hundred million summoned Golden Core cultivators probably belonged to 'independent cultivators,' with varying levels of strength.

"A massive number of Golden Core cultivators."

"But now, there are only eighty Blood Refinement Seeds in the Golden Core realm." Protector Xiong Yuan sighed, "In Immortal Wu Tian's command, there isn't a single one."

"Not a single one?" Wu Yuan was astonished.

He suddenly understood why Immortal Wu Tian valued him so much.

Even sending an Earth Immortal to personally assess him.

"The Blood Refinement Demon Palace probably requires these Immortals to select a certain number of elite disciples every hundred years; there must be assessment requirements." Wu Yuan thought to himself.

Disciples have their difficulties.

The higher-ups have their own dilemmas.

In the Blood Refinement Demon Palace's philosophy, would they let those higher-ups have an easy time?

"Over eighty Blood Refinement Seeds, on average, each Immortal has a little more than two. But nearing the Blood Refinement Battle, Immortal Wu Tian hasn't even selected a single Blood Refinement Seed under his command; he probably can't justify that." Wu Yuan speculated.

However, becoming one of these so-called Blood Refinement Seeds, how difficult was it?

"To become a Blood Refinement Seed, there's only one criterion, and that is having strong actual combat strength." Protector Xiong Yuan explained, "Through the Dark Star Assessment."

"Passing the seventh level qualifies you as a Blood Refinement Seed."

Dark Star Assessment?

The seventh level? Wu Yuan listened silently.

As time passed, Wu Yuan followed Protector Xiong Yuan.

After a teleportation transfer, they arrived at a completely different void.

"Wu Yuan, look, that's Dark Star over there!" Protector Xiong Yuan pointed to the distance.

Wu Yuan looked into the distance.

He saw an immense dark-red star, with a diameter of over a million miles, emitting a terrifying bloody aura.

Visible to the naked eye.

Many cultivators were queuing up in the void, preparing to enter the interior of Dark Star.

—

PS: Ten thousand words, three in one.

Apart from the guaranteed two chapters, extra chapters added for votes 3/12

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 284: Shocking Dark Star

"This star?" Wu Yuan looked in astonishment at the star with a diameter of over a million miles, such a star was incredibly massive.

In terms of size, it far surpassed ordinary stars. It's worth noting that in the Blue Star civilization of his previous life, the sun that nourished all living things had a diameter of less than three million miles.

Even the 'Dragon Star' of the Dragon Star Immortal Sect had a diameter of just over a hundred thousand miles.

However, sheer size alone wasn't enough to make Wu Yuan tremble. He was no longer the little guy who had just left Xia Mountain; after so many years in the Crimson Moon Immortal Continent, his perspective was extremely high, and he had encountered more than one Immortal.

Places like the Dragon Star Immortal Sect, were any of them ordinary?

Moreover, in the "Stellar Codex" that Wu Yuan obtained, there was a spiritual imprint of a great witch, only a strand, but unbelievably powerful.

Even so, faced with this dark-red star, Wu Yuan's heart still trembled.

As if facing a colossal beast about to destroy everything!

"Can you feel it? Not turning pale at the sight of Dark Star for the first time is quite impressive." Beside him, Protector Xiong Yuan had been observing Wu Yuan and sighed, "Many Golden Core cultivators, when they first come to Dark Star, are scared to the point of kneeling."

"You have to see it several times to get used to it." Protector Xiong Yuan added.

Wu Yuan nodded lightly.

This Dark Star was indeed extraordinary, much more powerful than the 'Crimson Moon Star' he had seen.

"In our Blood Refinement Demon Palace, there is an ancient legend that the color of Dark Star is dyed red by fresh blood." Protector Xiong Yuan looked at Wu Yuan.

"Dyed red by fresh blood?" Wu Yuan's gaze fell on Dark Star.

The dark-red color seemed even more ferocious.

"Wu Yuan, have you ever heard of the Crimson Moon Immortal Palace?" Protector Xiong Yuan suddenly changed the subject.

Wu Yuan nodded, "I've heard Dragon Daoist mention it; it's a superpower ruling the main continent of the Crimson Moon Immortal Continent, supposedly stronger than our Demon Palace."

Dragon Daoist did mention it.

The Crimson Moon Immortal Palace and the Blood Refinement Demon Palace had few overlapping powerful figures, but both sides did not hide the existence of the other.

"Haha, it's just stronger than the Crimson Moon branch of the Demon Palace." Protector Xiong Yuan laughed, "The strength of the entire Demon Palace is beyond your imagination; it can rival the entire Immortal Realm."

A hint of surprise appeared in Wu Yuan's eyes.

"Like the Crimson Moon Immortal Palace, they assess the strength of their disciples through the so-called 'Seven-Star Celestial Prodigy Tower' in the Divine Illusion Realm, conducting divine battles." Protector Xiong Yuan had a hint of disdain on his face, "Even in actual combat, there are various protective measures, supposedly to prevent disciples from getting hurt."

"In reality, it's just cowardice, afraid to face life and death directly."

"The cultivators under the Crimson Moon Immortal Palace are like children raised in a honey pot, untouched by wind, frost, or rain." Protector Xiong Yuan sneered, "The probability of a successful breakthrough is very low, and for the most part, it's just consuming cultivation resources."

Listening, Wu Yuan was surprised.

So, the powerful figures of the Blood Refinement Demon Palace saw the cultivators of the Crimson Moon Immortal Palace lineage this way.

"And in our Blood Refinement Demon Palace, we advocate real combat, and the idea that 'every battle is a matter of life and death.'" Protector Xiong Yuan pointed to the distant star, "So, the Dark Star test is all about real combat. With real combat, there's a risk of falling. Over endless years, countless disciples have perished in Dark Star."

"A risk of falling?" Wu Yuan sighed inwardly.

Truly worthy of being the Blood Refinement Demon Palace.

Only an internal disciple assessment poses the risk of disciples falling, indicating the cruelty of the cultivation process.

"Only under the pressure of life and death can one fully stimulate the potential of life," Protector Xiong Yuan chuckled. "Moreover, it also serves as a reminder to countless disciples not to be blindly arrogant and not to recklessly challenge Dark Star."

"It also serves as a warning to all disciples: plan before acting."

"Die!"

"Then you die." Protector Xiong Yuan emphasized.

Wu Yuan nodded gently. As his cultivation time increased, he increasingly realized the truth of the phrase 'to live is to possess everything.'

"Protector, rest assured, I will be careful and come out alive." Wu Yuan whispered.

"I believe you." Protector Xiong Yuan smiled. "Dark Star is divided into Golden Core Dark Star and Purple Mansion Dark Star. The original Blood World is used to cultivate Golden Core disciples, and this is the Golden Core Dark Star."

"By passing the test of the Golden Core Dark Star and overcoming enough levels, you can obtain a large number of resources and permissions."

"There is no age limit, only a cultivation limit; you must be in the Golden Core realm to challenge it."

"The entire Golden Core Dark Star has a total of twenty levels."

"Passing the fourth level makes you an elite disciple of the original Blood World."

"Passing the sixth level makes you a core disciple."

"Passing the seventh level makes you a Blood Refinement Seed." Protector Xiong Yuan looked at Wu Yuan. "That is to say, among the million Golden Core disciples directly cultivated by the Demon Palace, only over eighty have passed the seventh level of Dark Star."

Wu Yuan listened quietly.

Sharpening the knife won't hinder the cutting of firewood; this information is crucial.

It was all unknown in the past.

"Wu Yuan, as long as your combat projection hasn't been faked, passing the seventh level with your strength will be a piece of cake." Protector Xiong Yuan emphasized, "It's an impact to become the contemporary number one, and it shouldn't be too difficult. The Immortal has high expectations for you."

"Don't let him down."

"As long as you become a Blood Refinement Seed, or even take the first place, the Immortal will surely reward you generously." Protector Xiong Yuan said, "Moreover, if you want to hold a high position in the Demon Palace and obtain a large amount of cultivation resources, then show your strength to the fullest."

"I heard that you care a lot about your hometown?"

"Although my Blood Refinement Demon Palace is strict, it is also generous to true strong individuals." Protector Xiong Yuan smiled. "As long as your strength is strong enough and your talent is high, you can completely become the leader of Xia Mountain or even the master of the world."

Wu Yuan couldn't help but smile.

Another pie in the sky!

However, ordinary Golden Core cultivators might find it hard to swallow Protector Xiong Yuan's big pie, but Wu Yuan felt he had a chance.

"Protector Xiong Yuan, currently, among the Golden Core disciples in the Crimson Moon branch, how far has the highest reached?" Wu Yuan couldn't help asking.

There are a total of twenty layers in the Golden Core Dark Star.

Passing the seventh level allows one to become a Blood Refinement Seed. Clearly, the difficulty of Dark Star is extremely high. It's probably similar to the Seven-Star Celestial Prodigy Tower; although each tower has a hundred levels, passing fifty levels is considered very impressive.

"You'll know once you go in." Protector Xiong Yuan chuckled. "Let's go, follow me down."

Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

Swoosh! Swoosh!

Six figures swiftly flew towards the enormous Dark Star in the distance, running like a horse towards a mountain.

Even with the strength of Protector Xiong Yuan's Holy Domain Realm, it took quite a while to reach the entrance of Dark Star, which stretched for thousands of miles.

There were a total of ten teams.

Behind each team were many cultivators.

"So many people." Wu Yuan glanced over, just the cultivators waiting in line probably numbered over ten thousand.

"In Dark Star, there are ten battle spaces that can simultaneously accommodate ten cultivators to challenge," Protector Xiong Yuan smiled. "Normally, a Golden Core cultivator would come to challenge once every one or two years."

"So, on regular days, there is no need to wait in such long queues."

Wu Yuan nodded slightly.

"However, as the Blood Refinement is about to begin, cultivators from millions of small worlds are starting to arrive," Protector Xiong Yuan said. "And these newly arrived Golden Core cultivators also have the qualification to challenge, with one opportunity every year."

"There are rewards for each level passed."

"Of course, attracting a large number of cultivators, as the Blood Refinement approaches in the last few months, the number of people waiting in line is expected to exceed a million." Protector Xiong Yuan chuckled.

A million Golden Core cultivators? Wu Yuan was secretly surprised.

Really exaggerated.

"The more challenges, the more deaths. In history, before every Blood Refinement War, many Golden Core cultivators who hadn't entered the war died in Dark Star," Protector Xiong Yuan said. "Here is the intelligence on the strength of each level of Dark Star, take it."

He waved his hand and handed a jade slip to Wu Yuan.

"Thanks, Protector." Wu Yuan reached out and directly probed it.

Soon, Wu Yuan had a clear understanding.

"Let's go; I'll take you in directly." Protector Xiong Yuan grabbed Wu Yuan's shoulder and, with astonishing speed, flew into the interior of Dark Star.

The majestic force made it impossible for Wu Yuan to resist.

In the Holy Domain Realm, relying solely on physical strength could contend with a Reincarnation Feather Warrior. How could Wu Yuan, a Spirit Body Realm little guy, resist?

"Protector, aren't we queuing?" Wu Yuan couldn't help but ask.

"The Immortal is waiting for your good news. Why queue? What's the point of queuing?" Protector Xiong Yuan replied and took Wu Yuan into the interior of Dark Star.

This scene naturally caused dissatisfaction among the thousands of Golden Core cultivators waiting in line.

"Why can he cut in line?"

"I haven't seen that Spirit Body Realm guy before."

"Why don't they have to wait in line?"

"Why don't the Purple Mansion Realm enforcers stop them?" Many Golden Core disciples murmured in discontent.

"Shut up!"

"That's a Reincarnation Protector, qualified to lead someone in directly."

"You've been here for so long in the Blood World, and you still don't understand the rules?"

"Shut up, you want to skip the line? Fine, invite a Reincarnation Protector or pass the seventh level."

"Be quiet." Over ten Purple Mansion Realm enforcers guarding in the void each lowly roared, their voices echoing through the vast void.

Moreover.

Many Purple Mansion Realm enforcement cultivators waved their special whips and lashed out at some clamoring Golden Core cultivators, causing intense pain, quickly silencing those who were waiting in line.

...Wu Yuan and Xiong Yuan moved forward along the passage for hundreds of miles and finally landed on a huge suspended square.

All around, towering metal walls extended for thousands of miles.

At the end of the square were ten small teleportation arrays, evidently leading to ten different testing areas.

Here, more than ten Purple Mansion cultivators maintained order.

There was also a white-robed Reincarnation Feather Warrior with a powerful aura guarding.

"Xiong Yuan." The white-robed old man smiled, "Why are you here?"

"Old Luo, just handling some matters."

Protector Xiong Yuan smiled, "This little guy, named Wu Yuan, I'll trouble you to arrange for him to challenge Dark Star in advance."

"Oh? Advance challenge?" The white-robed old man looked towards Wu Yuan, who stood respectfully on the side. "Just entered our Magic Palace?"

Being members of the same Magic Palace, they could sense each other's identity token information.

Moreover.

The white-robed old man guarded Dark Star, and he knew about Golden Core and Spirit Body geniuses who were slightly stronger in the Blood World.

However, he had no impression of Wu Yuan.

It could only mean that Wu Yuan had just joined the Magic Palace.

"Protector Luo has a discerning eye." Wu Yuan slightly bowed.

"Don't flatter me. Since Protector Xiong Yuan brought you, you must have decent strength. Go to teleportation array number nine," the white-robed old man said, looking towards Wu Yuan respectfully. "The challenger who just died inside had just challenged the seventh level, saving the trouble of coming out."

"Go."

Challenger just died inside?

Trying to scare me? Wu Yuan thought, cupping his hands, "Yes!"

Whoosh!

Wu Yuan flashed across dozens of miles, entering the teleportation array labeled 'Number Nine,' followed by a flash of brilliance.

Wu Yuan disappeared.

"Old Luo, why scare the kid?" Protector Xiong Yuan stood in place, smiling.

"If he can't even handle this bit of intimidation, it's difficult for him to survive the Blood Refinement War," the white-robed old man said lightly. "Tell me, where did you pick him up from? With such importance, he might have a chance to pass the fifth level."

"I observed his body's aura; a fourth-grade foundation? His spiritual consciousness seems decent too."

"But having a strong foundation is not everything. He seems very young, and his comprehension of the Dao is probably average. He might not even pass the fifth level." The white-robed old man shook his head.

Apparently, he wasn't too optimistic about Wu Yuan.

Too young.

"Fifth level?"

Protector Xiong Yuan chuckled, "Old Luo, keep a close eye. This time, he will surprise you."

"Oh?"

A hint of surprise flashed in the white-robed old man's eyes, and he laughed, "So confident? Could it be that he's a top genius picked up by Celestial Wu Tian, capable of challenging the seventh level?"

Protector Xiong Yuan smiled but remained silent.

"Really that impressive?" The white-robed old man was astonished; he knew Protector Xiong Yuan's temperament, straightforward and not prone to boasting.

Whoosh~

The white-robed old man waved his hand, and suddenly a light screen projection appeared in front of them, showing the scene of Wu Yuan in Dark Star.

Of course, only the two of them could see this scene.

Like other Purple Mansion officials and Golden Core cultivators preparing to challenge, none of them could see.

"Not even sixty years old? Quite young." The white-robed old man was slightly surprised; he could only sense Wu Yuan's approximate age before.

But Dark Star could provide detailed information.

"He is indeed young." Protector Xiong Yuan chuckled; he had received information from Dragon Daoist earlier and knew Wu Yuan's age.

At this moment, he felt more at ease.

Because this proved that Wu Yuan, at least in terms of age, did not lie.

"Time to start." The white-robed old man said.

Inside Dark Star, in a spherical space with a diameter of about a thousand miles, blood-red metallic walls surrounded on all sides.

The entire space, however, appeared bright as day, looking extremely eerie.

Wu Yuan suddenly appeared in the void.

"The first level?" Wu Yuan glanced around; however, the voice of the 'Star Spirit' from earlier echoed in his mind.

The so-called levels were just a way to categorize strength, not a literal progression of layers.

All battles on every level would take place within this spherical space.

Furthermore, during battles, the use of source crystal weapons, high-powered talismans, and other external force weapons was not allowed.

The most crucial point was that after each level, participants could leave the battle space.

However, if they chose to continue challenging, surrender was not allowed in the first half of the battle, and even if they were defeated, they had to endure for more than half before surrendering.

"In other words, if one reaches a certain level and can't last even three seconds, they are undoubtedly dead." Wu Yuan thought.

Half, three seconds, sounded short.

But in the life-and-death moments of battles at the Golden Core Purple Mansion level, a collision could occur hundreds of times in a single second.

Wu Yuan also understood why so many disciples from the Blood Refinement Magic Palace died in Dark Star.

Unlike refining the Qi Avatar Tower, where failing was acceptable and one could keep trying, challenging this Dark Star required sufficient certainty and a willingness to face death.

"Star Spirit, the battle begins." Wu Yuan spread his domain through the invisible realm, quickly spreading. The entire battle space felt an invisible pressure.

Following that.

"Swoosh~" Countless black liquid appeared out of thin air, gathering to form a black-armored figure holding a shield in one hand and a knife in the other.

His eyes were cold, firmly fixed on Wu Yuan.

In the next moment.

"Kill!" The black-armored figure roared low, his figure suddenly skyrocketed, speeding towards Wu Yuan.

However, Wu Yuan slightly frowned, standing still.

Quickly, the black-armored figure rushed within a hundred miles of Wu Yuan.

"Halt!"

Wu Yuan's thoughts shifted, and in an instant, surging earth-yellow energy appeared out of nowhere, resembling earth-yellow dragons roaring as they charged toward the black-armored figure.

"Pong~" "Pong~" "Pong~"

In a lightning-fast series of collisions, the earth-yellow dragons submerged and annihilated the black-armored figure.

True combat lasted only half a breath.

"The black liquid disappeared?" Wu Yuan furrowed his brow slightly. "Spiritual Body at the first level with a sixth-grade Immortal Foundation? Without even mastering the domain?"

"The first level is quite weak."

"Even Old Fang could easily pass it."

"Congratulations, Wu Yuan, for clearing the first level of the Golden Core Dark Star," a cold voice echoed in the battle space. "Do you want to rest?"

According to the rules, when continuously challenging Dark Star, after clearing each level, participants could rest for half an hour to recover true essence, source power, and mental strength.

"No need."

"The next level," Wu Yuan said in a low voice.

At the entrance of Dark Star, the white-robed old man was shocked as he stared at the projection. "What a powerful domain! With just the domain, he can annihilate a Golden Core cultivator?"

"How is it?" Protector Xiong Yuan grinned.

"He has truly grasped the true meaning." The white-robed old man said solemnly, staring fixedly at the projection of Wu Yuan.

Clearing the first level wasn't difficult.

Any Golden Core cultivator who had practiced for a short period could pass it.

However, someone like Wu Yuan, who could annihilate the guardian using only his domain without even moving, it would be challenging. Moreover, as a Body Refining Cultivator, his domain would generally be weaker than that of Qi Refining Cultivators. It indicated how high Wu Yuan's understanding of the Dao was.

"Xiong Yuan, where did you find this monster? He's not even sixty years old, and he comprehended the true meaning? His Dao comprehension is probably more than just the true meaning," the white-robed old man looked at Protector Xiong Yuan. "His cultivation should be at the ninth stage of the Spiritual Body, right?"

"Even if he can't pass the seventh level, he should be able to pass the sixth level at least."

The white-robed old man said in a low voice, "Give him a few more decades, and he will definitely become a Blood Refining Seed."

"A few more decades?"

Protector Xiong Yuan chuckled, "Old Luo, watch closely. See what a 'peerless genius' looks like."

The white-robed old man was stunned, continuing to gaze at the projection.

Soon, a look of horror appeared on his face.

In the internal battle space of Dark Star.

Swiftly.

"Boom~" Countless black liquid once again appeared out of thin air, forming a black-robed guardian.

But this time, he was no longer a Body Refining Cultivator; he was a Qi Refining Cultivator.

"Swoosh~" Dozens of flying swords whistled, rushing toward Wu Yuan.

"Golden Core Fourth Stage?" Wu Yuan shook his head slightly.

He judged the life aura and mana based on the sixth-grade Immortal Foundation.

This level of foundation is considered mainstream among Golden Core and Spiritual Body cultivators in the Purple Mansion Mountains.

"Xiao Hei, go!" Wu Yuan waved his hand.

A black streak shot out from his left arm, transforming into a black serpent hundreds of feet long in the blink of an eye.

Spreading its wings, it covered the sky.

"Kill!" Xiao Hei was extremely excited; it had been a long time since it engaged in a life-and-death battle like this.

As an ancient savage beast with the bloodline, it had an innate thirst for bloody combat.

Its wings trembled like a lightning bolt streaking across the sky, and Xiao Hei's speed skyrocketed to an astonishing level.

Swoosh! Swoosh!

The two wings, like two enormous war blades, instantly swept away the flying swords, cutting through the black-robed guardian.

They were in completely different realms.

"Puff~" Death upon contact.

The second level, passed!

...The third level, Xiao Hei effortlessly took care of it.

...In the fourth level of Dark Star, the guardian's strength had risen to the ninth stage of Golden Core, and his understanding of the Dao reached the astonishing sixth level of the domain.

It could be said that this level of strength was already formidable among Golden Core cultivators, one in a thousand.

Yet, in this battle, Xiao Hei only used a dozen moves, not even unleashing its source power, and still killed the fourth-level guardian.

...Dark Star's fifth level.

The guardian's strength further increased, with the same domain at the sixth level, but his mana was comparable to a ninth-stage Golden Core with a fourth-grade foundation.

In the Dragon Star Immortal Sect, they were considered top-notch among inner disciples.

Finally, Xiao Hei unleashed its source power, using the advanced source technique 'Step Beyond.' Its already swift speed soared again.

The absolute speed brought an incredibly terrifying attack power.

Three consecutive collisions killed the guardian.

"Master, exhilarating! Exhilarating!" Xiao Hei was extremely excited, behaving like an ecstatic child.

However, Wu Yuan just smiled; he understood why Xiao Hei was so excited.

As a serpent, it was inherently fond of battle.

In the past few decades, Wu Yuan had stayed in Midland, where no one could play with Xiao Hei except for himself. Not even Fang Xia could last more than two moves.

Plus, he always had to hide his identity. Therefore, Xiao Hei had been lonely, and hearing about leaving the Xia Mountain world excited it so much.

Coming to the Blood Refining Demon Palace satisfied Xiao Hei.

"The innate talent of the serpent is truly remarkable," Wu Yuan looked at Xiao Hei, whose speed had reached its peak, feeling emotional.

The serpent is a natural favorite of the wind.

If the Body Refining Essence is the natural 'Earth Spirit Body,' then the serpent can be called the natural 'Wind Dao Body.'

Moreover,

The innate talent for understanding the Dao of the native spirit beast is closely related to the master's strength level. The stronger the master, the higher the innate talent of the native spirit beast, and its strength will gradually improve.

Over the past few decades,

Aside from the surge in mana, Xiao Hei, while comprehending the 'Path of Swift Wind,' had also reached the eighth level of the domain.

Although not comparable to some peerless geniuses, it could rival some ordinary Purple Mansion cultivators.

Moreover, Xiao Hei was a third-grade Immortal Foundation, despite only being at the seventh stage of the Spiritual Body; it was still extraordinary.

...At the entrance of Dark Star's interior.

The white-robed old man, Old Luo, was utterly shocked, staring wide-eyed at the projection with an incredible expression.

Even Protector Xiong Yuan, who had long known Wu Yuan's strength, was equally astonished, staring at the projection.

Protector Xiong Yuan had known that Wu Yuan was very strong, but to pass through five levels of Dark Star with just his summoned spirit beast?

How is that possible?

The summoned spirit beasts are so powerful, what about the master?

"No way!"

"Where did this Wu Yuan come from?"

The white-robed old man widened his eyes and looked at Protector Xiong Yuan beside him. "What is his summoned spirit beast?"

Xiao Hei, with the dual coverings of Wu Bingjia and Teng She Yu, could not be identified as Teng She from appearance alone.

"I don't know," Protector Xiong Yuan shook his head.

"You're keeping it from me now?" The white-robed old man stared.

"I really don't know," Protector Xiong Yuan smiled bitterly. "I knew Wu Yuan was powerful, but I didn't expect him to be this powerful."

He really didn't know.

"Too strong."

"With just the summoned spirit beast being so powerful, he must be using high-level source techniques, at least a third-grade foundation."

"This Wu Yuan hasn't even cultivated to the ninth stage of the Spiritual Body?" The white-robed old man shook his head in soliloquy, quickly deducing multiple pieces of information. "Unbelievable."

"Once he uses Beast Fusion, he will definitely be able to pass through ten levels."

"He's not even sixty years old?"

"A genius, truly an unparalleled genius," the white-robed old man shook his head. "I have never seen such a genius."

"This is definitely a genius who will be remembered in history."

A genius who passed through the tenth level of Dark Star? He had seen it.

But so young? The white-robed old man had never seen it, after all, he had been guarding the Golden Core Dark Star for more than a thousand years.

"In the past, geniuses were only seen in records."

"Now, I've seen a living one," the white-robed old man stared at the projection. "The sixth level, I don't believe he can pass through the sixth level with just his summoned spirit beast."

Protector Xiong Yuan also didn't say anything, staring at the projection.

Before coming to Dark Star, he was worried that Wu Yuan's strength did not match the information recorded in the intelligence.

But now?

He only suspected that Wu Yuan was hiding his strength.

...Dark Star, sixth level.

The guardian on this level once again became a Body Refining cultivator.

In a battle against Xiao Hei, the guardian burst out with astonishing strength. His understanding of the Dao was still at the sixth level of the domain.

But the strength of his mana was approaching the first stage of Mountain and River (sixth-grade Immortal Foundation).

"Second-grade Immortal Foundation, ninth stage of the Spiritual Body," Wu Yuan, watching the battle from afar, became solemn.

Cultivators, as their strength approached the limit of a major realm, found it increasingly difficult to improve even a bit.

Wanting to enhance one's strength once the mana reached the ninth stage for an ordinary Golden Core cultivator?

One could only comprehend the Dao and ponder secret techniques.

Time is limited, and talent is limited.

Therefore, there is a limit to the improvement of strength.

Wu Yuan finally understood why passing the seventh level of Dark Star could make one a Blood Refining Seed.

Just passing the sixth level of Dark Star is extremely difficult.

"The overall strength of the sixth level guardian has reached the level of the Purple Mansion."

"If you can pass the sixth level of Dark Star, it means you have the strength of the Purple Mansion threshold." Wu Yuan sighed inwardly. "In the Dragon Star Immortal Sect, this level of strength is very close to those true transmission disciples."

"Xiao Hei is in trouble."

This is a huge threshold.

Fighting against higher realms has always been the exclusive domain of peerless geniuses.

And as expected by Wu Yuan, Xiao Hei could still contend with the guardian at the beginning, but when the guardian simultaneously unleashed three source techniques, his strength skyrocketed, and Xiao Hei was immediately forced to retreat steadily.

There was no power to fight back.

"In terms of understanding the Dao, Xiao Hei is stronger, but constrained by the 'Summoned Spirit Beast,' it is difficult to cultivate multiple source techniques." Wu Yuan sighed inwardly. "If cultivated to the ninth stage of the Golden Core, Xiao Hei still has the power to fight, but now?"

The gap in the foundation is too great.

"Xiao Hei, come back." Wu Yuan telepathically communicated, and Xiao Hei roared lowly, wings shaking.

Seemingly a bit reluctant.

However, it obediently returned to Wu Yuan's side, swiftly shrinking its massive body and merging into Wu Yuan's body, preparing to unleash 'Beast Fusion.'

"Relying on the summoned spirit beast to reach this point, die." The towering guardian, hundreds of feet tall, roared lowly, wielding a war knife, angrily rushing towards Wu Yuan.

"Is that so?"

Wu Yuan grinned, extending his palms.

His palms were as white as jade, but in the next moment, they began to swell rapidly, and both arms instantly reached hundreds of feet in size, sweeping across the sky.

Wu Xiang!

Stellar True Body!

Two major source techniques erupted simultaneously.

It should be noted that Body Refining cultivators were known for their massive bodies. Celestial beings and celestial witches, comparable to minor worlds, could easily overturn the heavens and the earth with a snap of their fingers.

Although Wu Yuan was only at the seventh stage of the Spiritual Body, cultivating multiple source techniques made it easy to enlarge his body once he erupted.

"Massiveness represents strength!"

Wu Yuan's palms simultaneously struck, expanding rapidly, and a vast earthy yellow airflow flowed like two dark clouds, patting towards the approaching guardian at astonishing speed.

"Get lost!"

The guardian roared, swinging his long knife.

"Pong~" as if effortlessly swatting a mosquito.

Wu Yuan's two palms merged, directly slapping the guardian to death.

"So weak." Wu Yuan shook his head slightly.

Purple Mansion threshold strength?

With Wu Yuan's current strength, once he erupted with full force, he could indeed slap someone to death with a single palm.

"Next level."

...

"This! This! This!" The white-robed old man was already stunned: "Impossible! Shouldn't be!"

"In terms of foundation and source power, Wu Yuan should be somewhat inferior." The white-robed old man couldn't believe it: "How could he slap someone to death with a single palm?"

"It's a source technique. Wu Yuan's displayed source technique is stronger and more terrifying. Could it be a Heavenly-ranked source technique?" Protector Xiong Yuan shook his head, equally incredulous.

He was a Body Refining cultivator, so he saw more clearly.

"However."

"The most important thing is his understanding of the Dao, which is very strong. I estimate that it has reached the level of the fifth or sixth truth." Protector Xiong Yuan sighed.

Fifth or sixth truth.

This was something that over ninety-nine percent of Purple Mansion cultivators couldn't achieve, yet Wu Yuan, at the seventh stage of the Spiritual Body, had done it.

As time passed.

The two stared at the projection, and as expected, the guardian of the seventh level, although reaching the first stage of the Purple Mansion and the seventh stage of the domain, was truly a Purple Mansion combat power.

However, in front of Wu Yuan, after just a few exchanges, he was slapped to death with a single palm.

Seventh level, passed!

Soon, the projection turned gray.

"Beyond the seventh level, with our privileges, we can no longer see the battle footage," the white-robed old man shook his head. "A peerless genius."

"After this battle, he is destined to soar."

"Hehe." Protector Xiong Yuan was both shocked and delighted. For him, the stronger the power Wu Yuan displayed, the better.

"Old Luo, it's time to spread the news." Protector Xiong Yuan grinned.

"You're happy, aren't you?" The white-robed old man sighed. "Under Immortal Wu Tian's command, there is finally a Blood Refining Seed."

"Hurry up and spread the news, no more nonsense." Protector Xiong Yuan urged.

According to regulations.

Once a new Blood Refining Seed is born, the news must be transmitted to the thirty-six immortals responsible for nurturing disciples and other Golden Core stage Blood Refining Seeds.

Soon.

The white-robed old man spread the message: "Under Immortal Wu Tian's command, a new Golden Core stage Blood Refining Seed, Wu Yuan."

Eighty-six Golden Core stage Blood Refining Seeds.

Thirty-six immortals.

Received the message simultaneously.

Just after transmitting the message, the white-robed old man suddenly widened his eyes. "He advanced so quickly? How is that possible!"

"What happened?" Protector Xiong Yuan was momentarily stunned.

Then, he revealed a smile, unable to suppress his laughter. "Good! Very good! Excellent progress!"

Because Protector Xiong Yuan had already seen Wu Yuan's name on the 'Dark Star Rankings.'

Third place!

Passed the tenth level.

Just now, in a short period, Wu Yuan consecutively passed the eighth, ninth, and tenth levels of the Dark Star and was currently challenging the eleventh level.

"In the past hundred years, although more than eighty Blood Refining Seeds have been cultivated by the Original Blood World, only two outstanding geniuses have passed the eleventh level of the Dark Star." The white-robed old man said solemnly. "I wonder if Wu Yuan can make it."

Unable to see the battle footage.

Therefore, they could only judge whether Wu Yuan had passed the tenth level through the updated information on the rankings.

"Old Luo, you should continue to spread the news." Protector Xiong Yuan teased.

According to the rules, whenever a Blood Refining disciple passes the eleventh level of the Dark Star, as the overseer of the Dark Star, the news must be transmitted.

This is a duty.

"Don't rush." The white-robed old man calmed down instead. "This Wu Yuan is extraordinary. It's not too late to spread the news after he finishes the eleventh level."

"Once he passes, he will be enough to be on par with the other two outstanding geniuses of the Original Blood World."

"As you wish." Protector Xiong Yuan was very relaxed.

For him, as long as Wu Yuan became a Blood Refining Seed, he had already met the requirements of the immortals. As for being stronger? It depended on Wu Yuan's own performance.

...

The Original Blood World, First Zone, Mansion Number One.

The entire Original Blood World's one million Golden Core disciples were divided into ten zones. Those who could live in the First Zone represented the strongest strength and were among the top talents in the Original Blood World.

All of them were Blood Refining disciples.

And living in Mansion Number One represented the master of the mansion, who was the strongest among the one million Golden Core disciples!

The rules of the Original Blood World were cruel and straightforward, ignoring differences in age and cultivation level.

Any Blood Refining disciple could challenge the master of Mansion Number One.

Once victorious in the challenge, they not only gained entry to Mansion Number One but also received substantial rewards.

Inside the mansion.

"The Blood Refining Battle only has three years left."

"I must strive harder, even harder, and not let Grandpa down." A young girl, draped in a white veil, sat cross-legged on a jade platform, revealing a pair of pristine feet, giving off a sacred aura.

Her eyes were incredibly lively, exuding infinite charm.

With a doll-like face, there was a hint of maturity that didn't match her age.

"Grandpa."

"I will surely return with honor, rejuvenate the entire family, and personally eradicate the 'Thousand Source Sect,'" murmured the white-clad girl.

She couldn't forget.

Back then, pressured by the Thousand Source Sect, it was Grandpa who risked his life to send her to the Blood Refining Demon Palace.

The fate of the entire family? She didn't know.

It wasn't until decades later, as her strength soared in the Blood Refining Demon Palace, that she learned the entire family had been degraded to servants by the Thousand Source Sect, and many had died.

Although, due to her, the overall family power rose, and the Thousand Source Sect dared not oppress them again.

However.

The humiliation of the family and the resentment of being separated from loved ones, how could she forget?

"The entire Original Blood World has no Golden Core cultivator who can match me. Shui Heng is currently on par with me, but he has been cultivating for over 150 years. I have only practiced for a hundred years. In a few more years, my strength will definitely surpass his."

"I am the strongest in the entire Crimson Moon branch."

"However, this is just the beginning."

"The Golden Core Blood Refining Battle gathers geniuses from thousands of second-level branches of the Immortal Nation. It is said that all of them are talented individuals who have passed the fourteenth level of the Dark Star."

"My strength is still lacking."

"I have to become stronger. I not only want to obtain the Blood Refining opportunity but also strive to seize the best Blood Refining chance." The white-clad girl's eyes were filled with longing.

She is none other than Bai Li, the current number one genius in the Golden Core realm of the Original Blood World!

Innate talent is exceptional!

Having passed the eleventh level of the Dark Star.

"There are still three years. I need to go further, cultivate the Law of Wind to a higher level, and try to pass the twelfth level of the Dark Star." Bai Li pondered, "Once I pass the twelfth level, I can receive even more treasures."

"However, to pass the twelfth level of the Dark Star, I need the strength of the Purple Mansion Quadruple Realm." Bai Li gritted her teeth.

In terms of foundation, she was a Third-grade Immortal Base.

Her mana had reached the pinnacle of the Golden Core realm, and her understanding of the Dao had also reached the Fourth Level of True Meaning. Breaking through further? How difficult would it be?

Suddenly.

"Hmm?" Bai Li received a transmission from the Blood Refining Immortal Realm and couldn't help but open her eyes, a hint of confusion flashing in her eyes.

A strand of divine consciousness entered the Blood Refining Immortal Realm to receive the message.

"It's news from the Dark Star Guardian. Huh? Turns out there's a new Blood Refining Seed? Named Wu Yuan?" Bai Li glanced at it.

Not particularly concerned.

Blood Refining Seed?

In the Original Blood World, ordinary Blood Refining Seeds would only pass the seventh or eighth level of the Dark Star, even though they were considered top-tier among the million Golden Core cultivators.

But compared to her, one of the top-tier geniuses? They were still quite lacking.

Bai Li could easily defeat them with just one move.

No threat at all!

"But soon, in less than half a quarter of an hour, just as Bai Li continued her cultivation, she received another transmission from the Blood Refining Immortal Realm.

"More news?"

"It's from the Dark Star Guardian again. Could it be that a new Blood Refining Seed has been born? Or has someone passed the twelfth level of the Dark Star?" Bai Li was puzzled but chose to enter the Blood Refining Immortal Realm to check the message.

The message was simple:

"Blood Refining Seed 'Wu Yuan' has just consecutively passed the eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh, and twelfth levels of the Dark Star and is currently challenging the thirteenth level."

Bai Li was instantly shocked.

If she remembered correctly, this Wu Yuan had just become a Blood Refining Seed, right?

With a thought, she directly probed.

Quickly, she figured it out.

"Indeed, it's his first attempt, his first visit to the Original Blood World? The first time challenging the Dark Star, he's sweeping through thirteen levels in one go?" Bai Li's heart stirred up a monstrous wave: "What kind of monster is this?"

Indeed.

At this moment, the only word in Bai Li's mind was—monster!

...

In the vast and boundless starry sky, among the undulating palaces in the central area, there was a majestic palace.

"Haha, good!"

"Well, well done." A hearty laughter echoed from the majestic palace: "In his early fifties, he has swept through thirteen levels of the Dark Star in one go?"

"How many levels will he pass after cultivating for several more decades?"

"This challenge is probably going to shake those immortals."

"Such a peerless monster."

"In the Crimson Moon branch, we haven't seen one in tens of millions of years." The hearty voice sounded extremely joyful: "I, Wu Tian, am also so lucky to have such a peerless genius under my command?"

"Haha."

"A bunch of fools, always coming to laugh at me. In this Blood Refining Battle, it's my turn to mock you."

"Blood Refining King? Very difficult! But at least, there is hope for the birth of a Blood Refining Marquis."

The puppet soldiers around the palace looked at each other, some puzzled, not knowing why the great Immortal was laughing.

However, they all could tell that the Immortal was very pleased.

—

PS: A massive chapter, three in one.

In addition to the guaranteed two chapters, extra chapters for monthly votes on 4/12.

(End of this chapter)