Chapter 59: The Border of Despair

As the remnants of the Tang and Yuan Families, along with the City Lord Manor's forces, gathered at the northern border of the Xia Family's estate, a sense of urgency and desperation permeated the air. The once confident and imposing forces now faced the daunting task of dealing with Shangguan Yi's formidable entrapment array.

Tie Tu, Xie Xie, Tang Family Ancestor, and Yuan Family Ancestor stood at the forefront. Their faces were etched with grim determination as they surveyed the expanse before them. The northern border of the Xia Family's territory was a sight to behold—a sprawling area lined with defensive structures and array formations that now bore the weight of their collective hopes.

Tie Tu's sharp eyes scanned the area, his gaze flickering between the dense formations and the surrounding landscape. "We need to understand the full extent of this entrapment array," he said, his voice steady but tinged with concern. "Xie Xie, your expertise will be crucial in unraveling its secrets."

Xie Xie nodded, his expression one of intense concentration. As the Array Master, he was accustomed to complex formations, but this one presented an unprecedented challenge. "I will need a closer look," he replied. "But be cautious. The demonic Cultivator's control over this array is precise and powerful. Any misstep could be disastrous."

The Tang Family Ancestor, still grappling with the loss of their forces, glanced at the assembled group. "We must ensure that the array is thoroughly examined. If we can find a way to disrupt or counteract it, we may have a chance to turn the tide."

The Yuan Family Ancestor, equally troubled by their situation, added, "We should also prepare for any potential ambushes. The demonic Cultivator is unlikely to let us investigate without interference."

With a plan in mind, the group began their careful approach towards the entrapment array. Xie Xie, leading the way, scrutinized every detail of the array's structure, his eyes darting over the intricate patterns and symbols. The array, though formidable, had its vulnerabilities—vulnerabilities that Xie Xie was determined to uncover.

As they moved forward, the tension among the Cultivators was palpable. Every step closer to the array heightened their sense of vulnerability and resolve.

Tie Tu, maintaining a vigilant watch, was prepared for any eventuality. His resolve was unwavering as he anticipated the challenges that lay ahead.

Three hours later, under the meticulous guidance of Xie Xie, the group finally uncovered the true form of the Serpent Embrace Entrapment Array. The array, as its name suggested, was a colossal serpent encircling the Xia Family territory, its ethereal form shimmering with core essence and intricate runes.

Tie Tu stepped forward, his eyes blazing with determination. "We must break this array. If we can shatter it, we will gain the upper hand," he declared. The Yuan Family Ancestor and Tang Family Ancestor nodded in agreement, their expressions mirroring his resolve.

The group launched their assault, with Tie Tu at the forefront, unleashing a barrage of powerful techniques against the array's structure. Yuan Family Ancestor and Tang Family Ancestor followed suit, their attacks combining to form a relentless offensive. The air crackled with core essence as the Cultivators poured their strength into the assault, determined to dismantle the serpent's grip.

However, an hour into their efforts, it became painfully clear that their attacks were having little effect. The array absorbed and deflected their strikes, its serpentine form barely wavering under the onslaught. Tie Tu's frustration grew as each attempt met with failure.

"Damn it," Tie Tu muttered, his brow furrowing in anger. "This array is stronger than we expected. We're wasting our core essence here."

The Yuan Family Ancestor, his face etched with concern, turned to Xie Xie. "Can you find a weak point? There must be something we can exploit."

Xie Xie shook his head, his expression grim. "The array is incredibly well-crafted. The demonic Cultivator has woven it with exceptional skill. If there is a weakness, it is deeply hidden. We'll need more time to uncover it."

Tang Family Ancestor, his voice tinged with frustration, added, "Time is something we don't have. The demonic Cultivator could strike at any moment, and we can't afford to be caught off guard."

Tie Tu's eyes narrowed as he considered their options. "We need a new approach. Xie Xie, focus on finding any potential weak points. We'll hold our positions and prepare for the demonic Cultivator's next move. We can't let him dictate the terms of this battle."

The group reluctantly pulled back from their fruitless assault, their spirits dampened but not broken. The serpent's embrace remained unyielding, its presence a constant reminder of Shangguan Yi's formidable power.

"I'll try my best." Xie Xie nodded, he then started his task immediately right there.

Xie Xie sat cross-legged in the center of the encampment, his brow furrowed in concentration as he poured over the intricate patterns of the Serpent Embrace Entrapment Array. After five hours of intense effort, he finally emerged from his meditative state, his expression a mix of fatigue and determination.

Tie Tu, Yuan Family Ancestor, and Tang Family Ancestor gathered around him, their faces reflecting a mixture of impatience and concern.

"What's the progress, Old Xie?" Tie Tu asked, his voice tinged with urgency.

Xie Xie took a deep breath before speaking. "The array is indeed formidable. I've made some headway in understanding its structure, but it's more complex than expected. Based on my current findings, it will take me at least a year to fully decipher and break it."

The group exchanged grim looks. The realization that they were trapped for such an extended period weighed heavily on them.

Tang Family Ancestor furrowed his brow. "A year is a long time. What can we do in the meantime? Our resources won't last forever, and the demonic Cultivator could strike at any moment."

Xie Xie nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. "In the interim, we need to fortify our defenses and manage our resources carefully. I can continue working on the array and provide updates, but we must also prepare for any potential attacks."

With the realization that breaking the Serpent Embrace Entrapment Array would take at least a year, Tie Tu convened a strategy session with the Yuan Family Ancestor, Tang Family Ancestor, and other key leaders. They needed a plan to endure and defend themselves effectively while Xie Xie worked on understanding the array.

Tie Tu began, his tone authoritative and pragmatic. "Given that we can't immediately break through the array, we need to fortify our defenses and prepare for any eventual attacks from a demonic Cultivator. We'll need to establish our own array to protect ourselves."

Xie Xie, who had finished the examination of the Serpent Embrace Entrapment Array, nodded in agreement. "I can create a defensive array to bolster our position. It will be designed to withstand attacks and protect both the false Core Formation Cultivators and the Foundation Establishment Cultivators among us."

Tang Family Ancestor spoke up, "How long will it take to set up this defensive array, and what do you need to ensure its effectiveness?"

Xie Xie replied, "I estimate that setting up a defensive array suitable for our needs will take approximately two days. I'll need ample space to set up the formations and a steady supply of core essence to reinforce the array's strength."

Yuan Family Ancestor added, "We should also ensure that our personnel are well-organized and prepared for any sudden assaults. We must maintain a constant watch and be ready to respond swiftly."

Tie Tu agreed, "We'll need to establish guard rotations and keep our combatants in top condition. I'll assign some of our elite troops to oversee the setup and defense operations. Additionally, I'll send out scouts to gather intelligence on any potential movements from the demonic Cultivator's forces."

As the leaders discussed the details, the tension was palpable. Tie Tu, Yuan Family Ancestor, and Tang Family Ancestor gathered around Xie Xie, who was laying out the plans for the defensive array.

Tie Tu addressed the group, "We need to divide our tasks effectively. Xie Xie, how can we best support you in setting up the array?"

Xie Xie looked up from his notes, "To set up the defensive array, I'll need a secure area where we can lay down the formations without interference. I also require a steady supply of core essence to reinforce the array's strength. We should designate a specific location for this and ensure it is guarded."

Tang Family Ancestor nodded, "I can organize a team to secure the area and gather the necessary materials. How many Cultivators will you need for this?"

Xie Xie replied, "At least twenty skilled Cultivators to assist with the setup and supply the core essence. They should have basics in handling array formations and prepared to defend against any potential disruptions."

Yuan Family Ancestor spoke up, "I'll take charge of arranging the security detail for the setup site. We'll need to establish guard rotations to ensure that the area remains secure at all times."

Tie Tu turned to Xie Xie, "What about the logistics of reinforcing the array? Will there be any specific requirements or precautions we need to take?"

Xie Xie explained, "We need to monitor the core essence supply continuously. If the essence runs low, it will weaken the array's effectiveness. Also, any disturbances or interruptions during the setup could compromise the array, so we must be vigilant."

Tie Tu then addressed the group, "Here's the plan: Tang Family will handle the logistics of gathering materials and preparing the setup site. Yuan Family will oversee the security and guard rotations. I'll coordinate with our scouts and ensure we have constant intelligence on any movements from demonic Cultivator's forces. Xie Xie, you focus on the array setup and reinforcement."

The leaders nodded in agreement, and Tang Family Ancestor added, "I'll also ensure that our false Core Formation Cultivators and Foundation Establishment Cultivators are briefed on their roles and ready for any potential threats."

Yuan Family Ancestor concurred, "And I'll organize regular updates on our progress and any security concerns to keep everyone informed."

As the leaders finalized their plans, Tang Family Ancestor raised a crucial point. "What about the serpents? It seems the demonic Cultivator can summon serpents to interfere with us. How do we deal with that threat while setting up the defensive array?"

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