Chapter 6461 - 6470

 

For the next two days, they flew north, the surrounding scenery becoming increasingly desolate, and the demonic aura growing ever denser.

The barren mountains stretched endlessly beneath their feet, devoid of any sign of human habitation. Occasionally, a few enormous demonic beasts could be seen traversing the mountains, emitting deafening roars.

The roars were so loud they seemed to shake the very air, sending chills down

their spines. Whenever Gui Yuanzi encountered a demonic beast, he tried to avoid it, striving to avoid conflict.

After all, their purpose was to obtain the Eternal Soul Wood, not to fight demonic beasts; it was better to avoid trouble.

At noon on the third day, the sun blazed down, baking the earth. Although the northern climate was relatively cold, the midday sun was still quite blinding.

Gui Yuanzi’s flight speed gradually slowed. He looked up into the distance, a hint of joy flashing in his eyes.

Ahead, a mountain range stretching for thousands of miles came into view, shrouded in thick fog, through which towering ancient trees and precipitous peaks could be vaguely seen.

The dense demonic aura emanating from it was overwhelming, creating a powerful sense of oppression.

“Young Master, we’ve arrived. That’s the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge,” Gui Yuanzi said excitedly, pointing to the jade bottle in his arms.

Kai’s soul flickered slightly. Through the bottle’s walls, he could vaguely see the distant mountain range shrouded in thick fog, and a ripple of emotion stirred within him.

He knew the true test had begun.

Gui Yuanzi slowly descended, landing at the foot of the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge before a canyon.

This canyon was the only passage into the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge. The cliffs on both sides soared into the clouds, covered with ancient vines.

The vines meandered and intertwined, densely covering the entire cliff face.

Unidentified flowers bloomed on the vines, their petals a pale green that emitted a ghostly green light in the sunlight, looking extremely eerie.

They also emitted a faint poison; careless contact would likely result in poisoning.

At the entrance to the canyon stood two demon cultivators.

One male and one female, both at the ninth rank of the True Immortal Realm, possessing powerful auras and solemn expressions.

Their eyes warily scanned the direction from which they were coming, preventing unauthorized intruders.

They were handsome, with fair skin and delicate features.

But unlike humans, their ears were pointed, their pupils vertical, and they exuded a faint demonic aura, clearly not human cultivators.

Upon seeing Gui Yuanzi land, the two demon cultivators immediately became alert.

The male cultivator raised his spear, its surface jet black, covered in demonic runes, radiating a faint chill.

He shouted at Gui Yuanzi, “Halt! This is the sacred ground of Ten Thousand Demon Ridge. Outsiders, stop! Leave immediately, or don’t blame us for being impolite!”

Gui Yuanzi remained calm, a gentle smile on his face, his attitude respectful.

He took out a cyan token from his robes, engraved with a nine-tailed celestial fox—a token he had prepared specifically to identify himself and his purpose.

He handed over the token and slowly said, “Fellow Daoists, please don’t misunderstand. I am Guiyuanzi, the Sect Master of Guiyuan Sect. I have come today specifically to request an audience with His Majesty the Demon Emperor to discuss important matters.”

“Thank you for informing him,”

the male cultivator said, taking the token and examining it carefully for a moment before handing it to the female cultivator beside him.

The female cultivator also examined it carefully, confirming that there was nothing wrong with the token before returning it to Guiyuanzi.

The male cultivator’s expression softened somewhat, but he remained wary, saying to Guiyuanzi, “Wait a moment, I will go and inform His Majesty the Demon Emperor. You must wait here and not trespass.”

With that, he turned and walked into the canyon, his figure quickly disappearing into the thick fog.

Guiyuanzi nodded, standing at the canyon entrance, waiting patiently.

The jade bottle in his arms gently pressed against his chest, Kai’s soul also waited quietly, his mind filled with countless thoughts.

He knew that the upcoming meeting was crucial, directly related to whether they could obtain the Eternal Soul Wood.

Therefore, he had to remain calm and cautious in his words and actions.

After a moment, the male cultivator emerged from the canyon, his expression much more relaxed than before. He said to Gui Yuanzi, “His Majesty the Demon Emperor requests your presence. Please follow me.”

Gui Yuanzi felt relieved and quickly replied, “Thank you, fellow Daoist.”

With that, he tightly clutched the jade bottle in his arms and followed the male cultivator into the canyon.

Inside the canyon, thick fog filled the air, reducing visibility to less than ten feet. The demonic energy in the air was even more concentrated, mixed with a faint scent of sandalwood, the unique fragrance of the Demon Emperor’s palace.

The path beneath their feet was winding and twisting, with exotic flowers and rare herbs growing on both sides. Some flowers were delicate and beautiful, while others had strange shapes and emitted different auras.

The male cultivator walked ahead, his steps steady and his pace slow, occasionally turning back to make sure Gui Yuanzi hadn’t fallen behind.

Gui Yuanzi followed behind, walking cautiously, observing his surroundings as he went, secretly on guard.

He could sense that the canyon was filled with restrictions; if he accidentally touched one, it could trigger danger.

Moreover, the auras of numerous demon cultivators were still faintly visible in the surrounding area, indicating the demons’ tight security over this canyon.

After walking for about the time it takes for an incense stick to burn, the thick fog gradually dissipated, revealing

a vast valley. The valley was filled with exotic flowers and rare herbs, and a crystal-clear stream flowed gently.

Colorful fish swam in the stream, and the spiritual energy in the air was so dense it seemed almost condensed; a single breath was enough to refresh the mind and spirit.

In the distance, a majestic palace stood in the center of the valley.

Built of azure jade, the palace was ancient and solemn.

On the roof of the palace sat a colossal statue of a nine-tailed celestial fox.

The statue was lifelike, imposing, and exuded a powerful aura that inspired awe.

That was the Demon Emperor’s Palace, the residence of the Demon Emperor Qingqiu.

The male cultivator, leading Gui Yuanzi, walked step by step towards the Demon Emperor’s Palace.

The path beneath their feet was paved with smooth, warm blue jade stones, and exotic flowers and herbs swayed in the breeze on both sides, releasing a captivating fragrance.

Occasionally, small, delicate demon beasts could be seen darting through the grass, quite adorable.

But Gui Yuanzi had no time to appreciate the scenery; he remained vigilant, clutching the jade bottle tightly to his chest, fearing any mishap.

Soon, they arrived at the entrance to the Demon Emperor’s Palace.

The palace gates were tall and majestic, carved from massive black stones, and adorned with two enormous nine-tailed celestial foxes.

The patterns were lifelike, their eyes majestic, as if guarding the palace.

On either side of the gate stood four demon cultivators, all at the first rank of the Golden Immortal realm, their auras powerful.

Upon seeing Gui Yuanzi, they all cast wary glances, but did not stop him, clearly on the orders of the Demon Emperor Qingqiu.

The male cultivator nodded to the four demon cultivators, then pushed open the gates of the Demon Emperor’s Palace and said to Gui Yuanzi, “Please come in. His Majesty the Demon Emperor is waiting for you in the main hall.”

Gui Yuanzi bowed slightly, said “Thank you,” and then cautiously entered the Demon Emperor’s Palace.

The main hall of the Demon Emperor’s Palace was very spacious, even larger than the main hall of the Guiyuan Sect, but unlike the magnificent and luxurious Tianji Hall, it

exuded an ancient and solemn atmosphere.

The pillars in the hall were carved from ancient wood, tall and thick, and engraved with the history and legends of the demon race.

The patterns were lifelike, recording the rise and fall of the demon race from ancient times to the present, inspiring a sense of awe.

The floor was covered with a soft animal skin carpet, soft and silent underfoot, embroidered with exquisite nine-tailed celestial fox patterns, very delicate.

On either side of the main hall stood a dozen or so demon cultivators, all at the Golden Immortal level.

Their eyes were respectfully fixed on the throne at the far end of the hall; they were clearly subordinates of the Demon Emperor Qingqiu.

Their forms varied: some were foxes, some tigers, and some eagles.

Although they had taken human form, they still retained the characteristics of their original forms, emanating a dense demonic aura that gave off a powerful sense of oppression.

Guiyuanzi entered the hall without any panic, walking step by step to the center and stopping.

He bowed respectfully to the throne at the far end, his tone respectful and humble: “Guiyuanzi of the Guiyuan Sect pays respects to His Majesty the Demon Emperor.”

At the far end of the hall, a woman leaned against a large throne.

She wore a long white dress, its fabric light and airy, as pure as moonlight, embroidered with faint nine-tailed celestial fox patterns that swayed gently in the breeze, making her appear exceptionally elegant.

Her long hair was as black as ink, glossy and flowing down her back, the ends slightly curled like a fox’s tail, radiating a faint sheen.

Her face was exquisitely beautiful, her features delicately sculpted like a work of art by the heavens: willow-leaf eyebrows, phoenix eyes, cherry lips, and skin as white as snow, flawless and delicate.

Her eyes possessed an innate allure, captivating anyone who looked at her.

But what was most striking were her eyes—amber eyes, clear and deep, their pupils seemingly burning with flames.

They held both the majesty of a demon queen and a touch of coldness, making one hesitant to look directly at them.

Her pointed ears twitched slightly, as if listening intently to everything around her, and a faint demonic aura emanated from her, intertwining with her aloof demeanor to create a unique charm.

She was Qingqiu, the Demon Queen of Ten Thousand Demon Ridge.

A nine-tailed celestial fox who had cultivated for tens of thousands of years, a top-tier expert at the third rank of Golden Immortal.

Qingqiu’s gaze fell on Guiyuanzi, a faint smile playing on her lips.

That smile, like melting snow, instantly dispelled some of the solemnity in the hall, adding a touch of gentleness.

Her voice was clear and melodious, like heavenly music reaching Guiyuanzi’s ears: “Guiyuanzi, long time no see.”

“The last time I saw you was hundreds of years ago at the Northern Region Dao Discussion Conference. At that time, you were only at the second rank of Golden Immortal. Now you have broken through to the third rank of Golden Immortal, quite an improvement, congratulations.”

Hearing Qingqiu’s words, Guiyuanzi felt relieved and quickly said humbly, “Your Majesty flatters me. I only broke through by chance; compared to Your Majesty, I am still far behind.”

“Your Majesty has cultivated for tens of thousands of years; your cultivation is unfathomable. I have the utmost respect for you.”

He knew that Qingqiu’s ability to remember events from hundreds of years ago meant she harbored no ill will towards him, which was undoubtedly a good start.

Qingqiu waved her hand, saying calmly, “No need for formalities. You’ve traveled a long way from Guiyuan Sect to Wanyao Ridge; the journey must have been arduous.”

“Speak,” she continued, “what brings you here today? If it weren’t important, you wouldn’t have dared to intrude into my Wanyao Ridge.”

Her tone, though calm, carried an undeniable authority, leaving no room for concealment.

Guiyuanzi dared not delay, quickly taking out the jade bottle containing Kai’s soul from his robes, gently placing it on the ground, and bowing respectfully.

“Your Majesty, I have indeed come today with a request.”

“A young friend of mine has met with misfortune; his physical body has been destroyed, and now only a wisp of his soul remains, barely surviving. To rebuild his body, he needs two rare and precious materials: Primordial Divine Water and Eternal Soul Wood.”

“I already have a lead on the Primordial Divine Water; it will appear at the Myriad Treasures Auction in Tianque City in three months, and I am confident I can acquire it.” ”

However, the Eternal Soul Wood grows in the Primordial Soul Forest deep within the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge, a forbidden area for the demon race.”

“Therefore, I have dared to come here to beg Your Majesty to grant my young friend permission to enter the Primordial Soul Forest to obtain a piece of Eternal Soul Wood to save his life. I would be eternally grateful.”

Qingqiu’s brows furrowed slightly, a hint of displeasure flashing in his amber eyes, and his tone turned colder.

“The Primordial Soul Forest is a forbidden area of ​​our demon race. Since ancient times, there has been a rule that outsiders are not allowed to enter without permission. This is the bottom line of the demon race, and it cannot be broken.”

“You should know the consequences of trespassing into a forbidden area.”

Hearing Qingqiu’s words, Guiyuanzi’s heart tightened, but he did not give up and still bowed and said.

“Your Majesty, I know that the Primordial Soul Forest is a forbidden area of ​​the demon race, and I also know the rules of the demon race. But my young friend’s situation is very special. He did not intend to violate the rules of the demon race. He only wanted to obtain the Eternal Soul Wood to reshape his physical body and save his life.”

“Moreover, I dare to say that my young friend has a past with the demon race. Your Majesty will know the reason when you see him.”

After speaking, he no longer hesitated and gently opened the lid of the jade bottle.

Instantly, a ball of pale purple divine soul slowly floated out of the jade bottle and hovered in mid-air.

Around the divine soul, the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture slowly flowed. The golden light was warm and powerful, dispelling some of the demonic energy in the hall, forming a sharp contrast with the demonic energy on Qingqiu’s body.

Kai’s soul trembled slightly as he sensed the powerful aura emanating from Qingqiu. He became secretly wary but did not retreat.

He remained suspended in mid-air, awaiting Qingqiu’s reaction.

Qingqiu’s gaze fell upon the purple soul, initially just a casual glance, not taking it seriously.

In her eyes, it was nothing more than an ordinary remnant soul, insignificant despite the protection of the Great Luo Golden Scripture.

But soon, her pupils contracted slightly, a hint of surprise flashing in her amber eyes, which then became complex.

She had sensed it.

She sensed that within that purple divine soul, besides the aura of chaotic power and the aura of the golden tome, there was also a very faint, almost imperceptible aura.

That aura was extremely familiar to her. That was the scent of the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox bloodline, the aura of her demon clan’s royal blood.

Moreover, although this aura was faint, it was extremely pure, clearly originating from the core bloodline of the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox clan.

Qingqiu abruptly sat up straight, her previous languid posture vanishing, replaced by a serious and solemn expression.

Her gaze was fixed on the purple soul, her tone becoming heavy, each word carrying immense weight.

“How can your soul contain the aura of my clan’s bloodline? And such a pure aura of the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox royal bloodline at that?”

Kai remained silent for a moment.

He knew this was the key to obtaining the Eternal Soul Wood, and he had to tell the truth.

He spoke slowly, his voice low and clear, carrying a hint of barely perceptible gentleness.

“Back in the Celestial Realm, I had a confidante. She was the Fox Princess, named Bai Qian, a member of the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox clan.”

“When we were together, our bloodlines merged. That’s why her bloodline aura remains in my soul—the bloodline aura of the Nine-Tailed Celestial Fox royal family that His Majesty spoke of.”

“Bai Qian? The Celestial Realm?”

Qingqiu murmured, repeating the two names, a hint of reminiscence flashing in her amber eyes.

Then, a faint smile appeared on her lips, a gentle and gratified smile, completely different from her previous cold and dignified demeanor.

“That child is my descendant. Tens of thousands of years ago, I ascended to the Celestial Realm, and since then, I have lost contact with my descendants in the Celestial Realm.”

“I thought they were extinct. I never imagined that after tens of thousands of years, I could still hear news of them here, still feel their bloodline aura. It’s truly wonderful.”

Kai’s heart trembled, and the pale purple aura of his soul quivered violently.

He never imagined that Bai Qian was a descendant of the Demon Emperor Qingqiu, let alone that he would encounter Bai Qian’s ancestor in the Seventeenth Heaven.

Countless memories of Bai Qian flooded his mind.

He remembered Bai Qian’s gentle smile in the Celestial Realm;

he remembered the days when Bai Qian forced him to fuse their bloodlines for dual cultivation;

he remembered the scene where she almost died, exhausting her own cultivation to save him;

he remembered Bai Qian’s reluctant gaze when he left the Celestial Realm.

He thought he was very far away from Bai Qian.

Unexpectedly, he would encounter her ancestor here.

The warmth and longing in his heart intertwined, making Kai’s soul tremble slightly.

He suppressed his emotions and slowly spoke, his voice a little hoarse.

“Your Majesty, Bai Qian is still alive. When I left the Celestial Realm, she was perfectly fine, and her health had already recovered.”

“Her father, the old emperor of the Fox Clan, helped me a great deal. At that time, I had just entered the Celestial Realm and knew nothing. It was that old emperor who provided me with resources for cultivation.”

“He also entrusted Bai Qian to me, asking me to take good care of her.”

Kai’s words made Qing Qiu silent for a moment, a trace of relief and emotion flashing in her amber eyes.

She nodded gently and said softly, “Good, good, it’s good that she’s alive, it’s good that she’s alive.”

After tens of thousands of years, hearing news of her clansmen still moved Qing Qiu.

After a moment, Qing Qiu slowly composed herself, her gaze returning to Kai’s soul, her tone returning to calm, but with a hint of tolerance.

“Since you have this connection with my clan and such a deep affection for Bai Qian, I, the Emperor, will make an exception and allow you to enter the Primordial Soul Forest. But there is one condition.”

Hearing that Qingqiu was willing to make an exception, Guiyuanzi was overjoyed and quickly bowed, saying, “Your Majesty, please speak. Whatever the condition, the young master and I are willing to agree.”

Qingqiu’s gaze was fixed on Kai’s soul, and he said solemnly,

“The Eternal Soul Tree in the Primordial Soul Forest is not so easy to obtain. The Soul Forest is filled with restrictions and formations left over from ancient times, and countless powerful soul beasts reside within it.”

“Those soul beasts feed on souls and are extremely powerful. Even cultivators with the cultivation of Golden Immortals need to be extremely careful when entering, as a slight mistake can lead to death.” ”

You now only have a wisp of soul left. Without the support of a physical body, your spiritual power cannot circulate normally. Going in would almost certainly be suicide.”

Kai remained silent for a moment.

He knew that what Qingqiu said was true.

The Primordial Soul Forest was fraught with danger, and in his current state, entering it would indeed be a near-certain death.

But he did not back down.

Reshaping his physical body was his only way out, and the Eternal Soul Wood was something he absolutely needed.

No matter how dangerous the path ahead, he had to try.

He slowly spoke, his tone firm: “Your Majesty, I know the Primordial Soul Forest is dangerous, but I have no way out. I am willing to agree to any conditions; please give me a chance.”

“I can let you in, but you must pass the trials.” Qingqiu’s voice was calm and authoritative, leaving no room for negotiation.

“The trials are divided into three stages: the Soul Forest maze, a battle against a group of soul beasts, and obtaining the Soul Tree wood. If you pass all three stages, the Eternal Soul Wood will be yours, and I will not stop you.”

“But if you fail and die in the Primordial Soul Forest, I will not be responsible, nor will I send anyone to rescue you. Think carefully; are you willing to accept the trials?”

Guiyuanzi’s expression instantly changed, and he hurriedly tried to dissuade him.

“Your Majesty, no! The young master only has a wisp of his soul left, his body is weak, and he simply cannot withstand such a difficult trial.”

“If he is forced to accept the trial, his life will be in danger. Please, Your

Majesty, have mercy and offer a different condition. Whatever the condition, I am willing to bear it for the young master!” “I know he only has a wisp of his soul left.” Qingqiu interrupted Guiyuanzi, his tone still firm.

“But rules are rules. The Primordial Soul Forest is a forbidden area for the demon race. I have already made an exception and allowed him to enter, which is the greatest concession I can make. If he cannot even pass the trial, even if he enters, he will not be able to obtain the Eternal Soul Wood; he will only be throwing his life away.”

“Moreover, to reshape his physical body and become stronger, he must undergo trials. If he cannot even withstand this trial, even with the Eternal Soul Wood and the Primordial Divine Water, he will not become a great man.”

Guiyuanzi wanted to say something more, but was interrupted by Kai’s voice.

“Guiyuanzi, do not worry.” Kai’s voice was calm, but it carried an undeniable firmness.

“Your Majesty is right. To become powerful and to reshape one’s physical body, one must endure hardship. What kind of life and death haven’t I seen along the way?”

“An ancient soul forest and a trial cannot hold me back. I promise Your Majesty that I will accept the trial.” “Young Master!” Gui Yuanzi cried out anxiously, unable to bear seeing Kai risk his life to undergo the trial.

Qing Qiu looked at Kai’s soul, a hint of admiration flashing in his amber eyes, and nodded.

“Good, you have guts. No wonder my people have chosen you.”

“In that case, tomorrow morning, I will personally escort you to the entrance of the Primordial Soul Forest. Today, you should rest at Wan Yao Ridge, recuperate your soul, and prepare for tomorrow’s trial.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.” Kai’s soul bowed slightly as a sign of respect, his tone full of gratitude.

He knew that although Qing Qiu had set harsh conditions, he was also giving him a chance.

Without Qing Qiu’s exception, he wouldn’t even have the qualification to enter the Primordial Soul Forest.

Qingqiu waved her hand and said to a demon cultivator beside her, “Take Guiyuanzi and this young friend to the side hall to rest. Treat them well and do not neglect them.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.” The demon cultivator bowed and then turned to Guiyuanzi, saying, “Sect Master Guiyuan, please follow me.”

Guiyuanzi bowed to Qingqiu again, then carefully put away the jade bottle and followed the demon cultivator out of the main hall.

Inside the main hall, Qingqiu watched their departing figures, a complex expression flashing in her amber eyes.

She sighed softly and murmured to herself, “Child, I hope you haven’t misjudged him.”

“I hope this Kai can pass the trial smoothly and live a good life.”

That night, Kai was arranged to rest in a side hall of the Demon Emperor’s Palace.

This side hall was not large, but it was exquisitely decorated, clean and tidy, exuding a faint demonic aura, yet it did not make people feel oppressed, but rather very at ease.

In the center of the side hall stood a warm jade bed. The bed was pure white, radiating a faint warmth, and covered with soft animal hide.

The hide was made from the fur of a thousand-year-old spirit fox, soft and comfortable, its gentle touch soothing to the soul.

In a corner of the side hall sat a stone table and several stone chairs. On the table sat an incense burner, from which burned a faint scent of sandalwood.

The fragrant aroma permeated the entire side hall, refreshing the mind and bringing peace.

The windows of the side hall were open, revealing a dense bamboo forest outside. Moonlight filtered through the bamboo, casting soft, silvery rays onto the warm jade bed.

This, combined with the bed’s warmth, created a particularly cozy atmosphere.

Gui Yuanzi gently placed the jade bottle containing Kai’s soul at the head of the bed, then sat down on a stone chair beside it.

His expression was grave, his brow furrowed, his face filled with worry.

He had been thinking about Kai’s trial tomorrow, feeling extremely uneasy.

The Primordial Soul Forest was far too dangerous, and the trial was even more difficult. Kai now only had a wisp of his divine soul left, and he had no ability to cope with those dangers.

He was truly worried that something might happen to Kai during the trial.

Kai’s divine soul floated in the jade bottle, and through the bottle’s walls, he saw Gui Yuanzi’s worried expression, feeling deeply moved.

He knew that Gui Yuanzi genuinely cared about him and was truly worried about his safety.

He slowly circulated the Great Luo Golden Scripture’s cultivation technique, absorbing the surrounding spiritual energy, and said at the same time,

“Gui Yuanzi, you don’t need to worry too much. I will definitely pass the trial smoothly.”

Kai’s voice was soft, but it carried a hint of comfort and a hint of determination.

Gui Yuanzi raised his head, his gaze falling on Kai’s divine soul in the jade bottle, his tone full of worry.

“Young Master, are you really going to participate in the trial? I’ve been to the Ancient Soul Forest once. Although I didn’t go deep into the core area, I only wandered around the outer perimeter, but the outer restrictions were already terrifying. A slight mistake could cost you your life.”

“You only have a wisp of your soul left now. Without the support of a physical body, your spiritual power cannot circulate normally. Even with the protection of the Great Luo Golden Scripture, it will be difficult to cope with the dangers in the trial.”

“What if… what if something happens to you? How will I explain to the Guiyuan Sect? How will I explain to those Daoist disciples?”

“There are no ‘what ifs.’” Kai interrupted Guiyuanzi, his tone calm and firm.

“Guiyuanzi, do you know why I’ve been able to live until now?”

Guiyuanzi shook his head, his eyes full of doubt.

“From the mortal realm to the celestial realm, and then to the seventeenth heaven, I have experienced countless life-and-death situations and countless hardships. Each time I was on the verge of death, but I survived.”

“It wasn’t because I was lucky, but because I never left myself a way out. Every battle, every hardship, I treated as if it were my last, fighting with all my might.”

“It wasn’t that I wasn’t afraid of death, but that I knew fear was useless, retreating would only hasten my death. Only by forging ahead could I have a glimmer of hope.”

He paused, then continued, “This trial, though dangerous, is my only chance. Only by passing the trial and obtaining the Eternal Soul Wood can I reshape my physical body and become stronger.”

“Only then can I have a chance to return to the sixteenth heaven, rescue my companions imprisoned by the gods, and find Bai Qian. I cannot give up, and I will not give up.”

“You don’t need to worry about me. I will definitely pass the trial smoothly and return safely.”

Kai spoke with great determination, but there was one thing he didn’t tell Gui Yuanzi: behind him was Mr. Shi.

His physical body was destroyed, and Mr. Shi didn’t appear, but if his divine soul was in trouble, he would be utterly destroyed. He didn’t believe Mr. Shi wouldn’t appear.

Even if Mr. Shi didn’t appear, Kai believed Mr. Shi had a way to bring him back to life.

This was his confidence, so Kai feared nothing.

Gui Yuanzi remained silent for a long time, looking at the resolute purple divine soul in the jade bottle, his worries still lingering.

But he also knew that once Kai made a decision, he wouldn’t easily change it.

He sighed deeply, a hint of helplessness flashing in his eyes, yet also a trace of respect.

“Young Master, you are so much like the Daoist Ancestor.”

“The Daoist Ancestor back then was also like this. Once he set his mind on something, he would do everything in his power to achieve it, never leaving himself a way out, no matter how dangerous the road ahead, he would not back down.”

Kai didn’t speak, just listened quietly, because he had no idea who the Daoist Ancestor was.

This Great Luo Golden Scripture recognized him, and Kai didn’t know why. Before, it was a wordless heavenly book, and now it had become the Great Luo Golden Scripture. Kai knew nothing about it.

It was as if an invisible hand was giving him things and pushing him along.

“The Great Luo Golden Scripture is the personal treasure of the Taoist patriarch. Back then, the patriarch traveled through the myriad realms and delved into ancient ruins. By chance, he obtained this scripture, comprehended the supreme Dao, and his cultivation increased dramatically. Only then did he establish the Taoist lineage, which has been passed down to this day.”

“Later, the Ancestor ascended to heaven, and the Great Luo Golden Scripture disappeared without a trace. The sect’s patriarchs searched for tens of thousands of years without success.”

“Unexpectedly, it chose you, Young Master. This is the will of Heaven, and the will of Heaven cannot be defied.”

“Guiyuanzi, I will live well and will not let down the expectations of the Daoist Ancestor.” Kai’s voice was low and firm.

Silence returned to the side hall.

Moonlight streamed through the window, illuminating the warm jade bed. The

air was thick with the fragrance of sandalwood, creating a warm yet somber atmosphere. Chen

Ping’s soul floated quietly in the jade bottle, slowly circulating the Great Luo Golden Scripture’s techniques, conserving his energy in preparation for tomorrow’s trial.

Guiyuanzi sat by the bed, his gaze fixed on the jade bottle, his expression solemn.

He silently vowed to protect Kai, ensuring his safe passage through the trial and his return.

Neither of them rested that night.

Kai recuperated, accumulating strength; Guiyuanzi silently watched over him, worried about tomorrow’s trial.

They both knew that tomorrow’s trial would be a difficult ordeal.

Success or failure hinges on this moment; there is no room for carelessness. The Heavenly Palace, the main hall.

The luminous crystals embedded in the dome illuminated the entire hall, golden light flowing within and reflecting on the figure on the throne, coating him with a cold, golden glow.

The stone pillars on either side of the hall stood silently, their carved divine battle reliefs flickering in the light, seemingly bearing silent witness to the oppressive and chilling atmosphere.

The Heavenly Venerable sat on the throne, his face as somber as the sky before a storm.

His fingers tapped lightly on the armrest, once, once, and again, the sound echoing in the empty hall like the tolling of a death knell.

Before him knelt four Golden Immortal elders—Elder Zhao, Elder Qian, Elder Sun, and Elder Li.

Their foreheads were pressed to the ground, afraid to raise their heads, afraid to utter a sound, cold sweat pouring down their bodies.

The hall’s floor tiles were forged from extraterrestrial cold iron, icy and bone-chilling, the cold seeping into their bones from their knees, yet not one dared to move.

They had been kneeling for a full hour.

An hour ago, they brought back news—the Soul-Suppressing Pearl had shattered, and Kai’s soul had escaped.

The four Golden Immortal elders had chased for three days and three nights, but failed to catch him, returning only exhausted and filled with fear.

They knelt there, their knees numb, but the fear in their hearts was more agonizing than the pain in their knees.

The palace doors were tightly shut, and the guards outside dared not make a sound. The entire hall was like an ice cellar, with only the dull sound of Venerable Tianji’s fingers tapping on the armrests, one tap after another.

“You said… the soul escaped?”

Venerable Tianji’s voice was calm, so calm that it lowered the temperature of the entire hall.

Everyone present knew what was suppressed beneath this calm—a boundless rage about to erupt.

Elder Zhao forced himself to speak, his voice hoarse and trembling uncontrollably.

He had lived for tens of thousands of years, experienced countless life-and-death battles, and had never feared any enemy.

But at this moment, kneeling beneath the throne, he couldn’t suppress the fear in his heart.

The person sitting upon him was not only his Palace Master, but also a powerful Golden Immortal of the third rank, capable of crushing him with a single finger.

“Palace Master, I am incompetent. That divine soul was protected by the Great Luo Golden Scripture; its speed was too great. We chased it for three days and three nights, but failed to catch it. I deserve to die; please punish me, Palace Master.”

His forehead slammed heavily against the floor tiles, producing a dull thud.

The other three elders also hurriedly kowtowed, the sounds of their foreheads striking the ground echoing like drumbeats in the empty hall.

“Chased it for three days and three nights, and failed to catch it?”

The Heavenly Extreme Venerable’s lips twitched, and he slowly rose from the throne.

His golden robe trailed on the ground, rustling softly.

He descended the steps step by step, each step feeling like a blow to the hearts of the elders.

He stood before Elder Zhao, looking down at him with disdain.

“You four Golden Immortals, chasing a wisp of divine soul for three days and three nights, and you still haven’t caught up?”

His voice wasn’t loud, but each word seemed to be squeezed out from between his teeth, carrying suppressed rage to the extreme.

His hand slowly clenched, his nails digging into his palm, as if he were about to unleash this rage into a slam.

Elder Qian hurriedly kowtowed, his forehead hitting the cold ground with a dull thud, his voice filled with fear and self-reproach: “Palace Master, that divine soul’s speed is simply too fast.

We have tried our best to catch up, but it seems to be able to sense our location. Every time we are about to catch up, it suddenly changes direction and disappears without a trace.

It’s not that we didn’t try, we are simply powerless!”

“Sense location?”

Venerable Tianji’s eyes narrowed slightly, a cold glint flashing in his eyes, flames seemingly dancing in his golden pupils.

He bent down, staring into Elder Qian’s eyes, and asked, word by word, “It only has a wisp of its soul left, no physical body, no spiritual power. How could it possibly sense your location?”

Elder Qian’s body trembled slightly, cold sweat dripping from his forehead onto the floor tiles with a soft thud.

He dared not look up, dared not meet his gaze, and even deliberately held his breath.

He didn’t know how to answer this question, because it was completely beyond common sense.

Elder Zhao hesitated for a moment,

then said in a low voice, “This subordinate suspects that the protective golden light of that scripture might possess some ability we are unaware of. It can sense danger in advance and then control the soul to evade it.” He paused, then added, “Palace Master, the level of that scripture far surpasses all our understanding, and its abilities are beyond our comprehension.

It can withstand the Golden Immortal Soul Refining Array, release an aura that severely injures the Palace Master, and carry a wisp of soul through the Seventeenth Heaven for three days and three nights without fading.

It’s perfectly normal for such a treasure to have one or two abilities we don’t know.”

Venerable Tianji was silent for a moment, his fingers paused, then continued tapping.

He straightened up, walked back to the throne, and slowly sat down.

His golden robe cascaded down on either side of the throne like two golden waterfalls. His fingers returned to the armrests, and he began to tap lightly again, one tap after another, the rhythm slow and heavy.

He knew that Elder Zhao was telling the truth.

The level of that scripture far exceeded his understanding, far surpassing all the treasures he had ever seen.

It could withstand the Soul Refining Array jointly activated by nine Golden Immortals, could severely injure his soul with a mere wisp of its aura, and could carry a faint remnant soul through the violently powerful Seventeenth Heaven for three days and three nights without perishing.

Such a treasure possessed abilities beyond reason, which was not surprising at all.

But he could not accept it.

He was the Lord of the Heavenly Pole Palace, a top expert in the Northern Region of the Seventeenth Heaven.

He had never failed to obtain what he desired.

“Continue searching.”

His voice was cold, so cold that the air in the hall seemed to freeze. “Find him alive or dead. If his soul has escaped, go find him. If you can’t find him, you don’t need to come back.”

This was not an order, but a judgment.

The four elders trembled simultaneously, their foreheads beaded with cold sweat.

They dared not utter a single word of dissent, responding in unison, “Yes!”

Their voices echoed in the hall, filled with fear, resentment, and a hint of despair.

They knew the rules of the Heavenly Pole Palace better than anyone—if the Lord said “you don’t need to come back,” then you truly didn’t need to return.

It wasn’t that they were leaving the Heavenly Palace, but that they were disappearing from this world.

The four stood up, bowed, and left the hall.

Their footsteps were heavy, their robes trailing on the ground with a rustling sound.

The palace doors slowly closed, shutting them out.

Silence returned to the hall. The Celestial Venerable leaned back on his throne, eyes closed, his fingers still lightly tapping the armrest.

One tap, then another, monotonous and persistent, like some ancient timer silently counting down.

The image of that purple divine soul, that golden tome, that indestructible golden light flashed repeatedly in his mind.

The opportunity was right before him, yet he had watched it slip away.

He was unwilling to accept it.

He stood up and paced back and forth in the hall, his golden robe trailing on the ground with a rustling sound.

He stopped before the star map in the hall, his gaze falling on the map of the Northern Region, moving from the direction of the Guiyuan Sect to the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge, and then back to the Celestial Venerable Palace.

His brow furrowed, his mind racing.

Where was that divine soul?

The Guiyuan Sect?

The City of Loose Cultivators?

Or had it already escaped to the desolate wilderness deep within the Northern Region?

The Celestial Venerable took a deep breath, suppressing his agitation.

He opened his eyes and took out a golden token from his robes.

The token, only the size of a palm, was forged entirely from ancient gold crystal, with an ancient character “悬” (xuan, meaning “suspended”) engraved on its surface, emitting a faint golden light.

This was a bounty notice from the Heavenly Pole Palace, one of its most treasured heirlooms passed down for tens of thousands of years. Once issued, it would reach all the independent cultivators and small and medium-sized forces in the entire Northern Region.

He lightly tapped the token with his fingertip, and a golden light screen emerged from it, hovering before him like ripples on water.

Dense ancient runes appeared on the light screen—the Heavenly Pole Palace’s special array for bounty notices, capable of transmitting information to every corner of the Northern Region.

He concentrated for a moment, then inscribed a line of text on the light screen, each character imbued with his divine sense and spiritual power to ensure the message’s authenticity and authority.

“Bounty Notice: Anyone who provides clues leading to the discovery of a cluster of purple divine souls will be rewarded with three Golden Immortal Pills and one million spirit stones.

Anyone who brings the purple divine souls back to the Heavenly Pole Palace will be rewarded with a Golden Immortal cultivation technique, ten million spirit stones, and the position of Guest Elder of the Heavenly Pole Palace.”

Three Golden Immortal Pills.

A Golden Immortal cultivation technique, a single manual.

Millions of spirit stones.

The position of Guest Elder.

Each of these items alone would be enough to drive the rogue cultivators of the Northern Region mad.

Those desperate scoundrels who would risk their lives for a few spirit stones, those impoverished rogue cultivators yearning for breakthroughs, those small sects clinging to powerful forces—no one could resist such temptation.

The Celestial Venerable looked at the words on the light screen, a cold smile slowly curving his lips.

This was an open scheme; he didn’t need to seek it out personally.

He only needed to throw out enough bait, and countless people would naturally be willing to risk their lives for him.

He waved his hand, and the golden light screen transformed into countless points of light, flying out like fireflies, spreading in all directions.

The points of light pierced through the dome of the main hall, through the restrictions of the Celestial Venerable’s Palace, through the sky of the Northern Region, flying to every corner.

The bounty had been issued.

Now, all he had to do was wait.

Wait for those greedy rogue cultivators, wait for those small forces wanting to curry favor with the Celestial Venerable’s Palace, wait for those desperate scoundrels seeking overnight riches to bring Kai’s soul before him.

The Celestial Venerable sat down again, leaning back on his throne and closing his eyes.

His fingers began to tap lightly on the armrest again, once, then again.

Only this monotonous tapping echoed in the hall, like some ancient timer calculating something.

Outside the window, three blazing suns hung high, their golden, silver, and crimson rays weaving and scattering, dyeing the entire land a dark gold.

The bounty had been issued for less than half a day, yet the entire Northern Region was in an uproar.

In the taverns of Tianque City, rogue cultivators sat together, whispering amongst themselves.

The tavern walls were made of rough gray stone, with a few spirit lamps hanging from them, emitting a dim light.

The air was filled with the smell of cheap spirit wine and roasted meat; the clinking of cups and plates, shouts, and laughter mingled together, noisy and chaotic.

But at this moment, everyone’s topic revolved around the same thing—the bounty from the Celestial Palace.

Some marveled at the Heavenly Palace’s extravagance, some coveted the bounty rewards, and some were itching to search for the purple divine soul.

The tavern owner, an old man at the ninth rank of True Immortal Realm, leaned against the counter, listening to the discussions with a mocking smile.

He remained silent, simply fiddling with the beads on his abacus, the beads clattering loudly.

“Three Golden Immortal Pills! One Golden Immortal Cultivation Technique! Ten million spirit stones! The position of Guest Elder! Has the Heavenly Palace gone mad?”

A rogue cultivator with a scar on his face slammed his fist on the table, his eyes wide like copper bells, his voice filled with shock and greed. “All of this combined is enough to make an ordinary rogue cultivator leap into the hands of a powerful figure in the Northern Region! If it were me, I’d be laughing in my sleep!”

“Tch, you’re dreaming? Do you even have the life to take it?”

An old man sitting in the corner sneered. He wore a tattered Daoist robe and held a rusty longsword in his arms.

His voice was hoarse, carrying a hint of mockery and helplessness.

“That purple soul, able to escape from four Golden Immortal elders, can it be anything ordinary?

The Heavenly Palace’s bounty is so high, indicating the soul’s value far exceeds these rewards. Do you think the Heavenly Palace is a sucker?

They’re using these rogue cultivators as pawns, making them search for that soul. If they find it, the credit goes to the Heavenly Palace; if they don’t, it’s not their people who die.”

“So what?” the scarred rogue cultivator retorted, unconvinced. “Fortune favors the bold! If we find that soul and hand it over to the Heavenly Palace, we won’t have to worry for the rest of our lives.”

“You don’t even know what that soul looks like, where are you going to find it?” The old man scoffed, shook his head, and said no more.

In front of the teleportation array in Heavenly Palace City, a black-clad cultivator hurriedly handed over spirit stones and stepped into the array.

He was a spy for a small force in the Northern Region, specializing in collecting intelligence and then reselling it to those who needed it.

Less than an hour after the bounty was issued, he had already copied the message hundreds of times and sent it to various regions through secret channels.

He was gambling, gambling that this intelligence would bring a hefty reward.

In the underground black market of Blackwind City, several sinister-looking cultivators huddled together, whispering amongst themselves.

They were an organization specializing in assassinations and captures; they would do anything for the right price.

The bounty on the wanted poster tempted them, but what they cared about even more was the “Guest Elder position.”

A Guest Elder of the Heavenly Pole Palace meant access to the palace’s resources and the ability to act with impunity in the Northern Region.

This power was more tempting than any spirit stone or cultivation technique.

But they were equally cautious.

They didn’t know where the purple divine soul was, what it looked like, or what its abilities were.

Anything that could escape from the clutches of the four Golden Immortal elders of the Heavenly Pole Palace was no ordinary thing.

They needed more intelligence, more information, before deciding whether to take action.

Discussions raged, but few dared to actually go after it.

It wasn’t that they weren’t envious, but that they dared not.

The four Golden Immortal elders of the Heavenly Pole Palace had lost track of it; for them, these rogue cultivators, to pursue it would be suicide.

Nevertheless, news of the bounty spread rapidly throughout the Northern Region.

It reached major cities, major sects, and even the Guiyuan Sect.

The day after the bounty was issued, the Heavenly Pole Palace received a secret report. The secret report was sent anonymously via a jade slip, leaving no trace of identity, not even the divine sense imprint, clearly to prevent the Heavenly Extreme Palace from tracing the sender’s identity.

However, the content made the Heavenly Extreme Venerable sit up straight, his previously languid posture instantly tense.

“That purple divine soul is in the Guiyuan Sect.”

Only one sentence.

No explanation, no evidence, no signature.

But the Heavenly Extreme Venerable’s intuition told him the message was true.

He picked up the jade slip and read it repeatedly three times, his divine sense penetrating it to carefully examine it, trying to find a clue.

But the sender was well hidden, leaving no trace.

He stood up and paced back and forth in the hall, his brow furrowed, his golden robe trailing behind him in arcs.

The Guiyuan Sect, a human power, its sect leader Guiyuanzi, a third-rank Golden Immortal.

Not particularly strong, but not weak either.

If Kai’s divine soul was truly in the Guiyuan Sect, why hadn’t Guiyuanzi handed him over?

Was he unaware of the bounty?

Impossible.

The entire Northern Region knew about it the day after the bounty was issued.

As a prominent sect in the Northern Region, Guiyuan Sect couldn’t possibly be unaware of this.

There’s only one explanation—Guiyuanzi deliberately concealed it, intending to keep the treasure for himself.

A cold glint flashed in Tianji Venerable’s eyes, his killing intent radiating a palpable intensity that sent shivers down the spines of the guards on either side of the hall.

Guiyuanzi, a sect leader of a human race, dared to challenge him? He

was courting death.

What was he?

A mere human, worthy of coveting such a heaven-defying treasure?

In the eyes of the gods, other races were trash, inferior beings.

“Guards!” His voice was cold, so cold that no one dared disobey.

The guard outside the main hall hurried in, knelt on the ground, his body trembling slightly, his forehead pressed to the ground, not daring to raise his head: “Hall Master.”

“Pass down the order. Elder Zhao, Elder Qian, Elder Sun, Elder Li, accompany me to Guiyuan Sect. I want to personally meet Guiyuanzi.”

“Yes!”

The guard left the main hall and hurried to relay the order.

Venerable Tianji stood in the center of the main hall, his hands behind his back, his gaze looking into the distance through the doors and windows of the main hall.

A cold smile slowly curled at the corner of his mouth.

Guiyuanzi, I’ll see if you dare to say to my face that his soul is not in Guiyuan Sect.

Venerable Tianji acted quickly.

In less than half an hour, the four Golden Immortal elders had already gathered in the square of Tianji Hall.

The square was paved with white jade, smooth and flat, reflecting a faint light under the sun.

Dozens of massive stone pillars stood around the plaza, their surfaces inscribed with the supreme runes of the divine race, shimmering with golden light in the sunlight.

Elder Zhao stood at the forefront, a second-grade Golden Immortal, his aura as powerful as a mountain.

He was tall, with an ancient face, his long, white hair tied back, and held a golden longsword in his hand, its blade gleaming with sharp light.

He cultivated metal-based techniques, specializing in direct attacks, and was the strongest person in the Heavenly Palace besides the Palace Master.

But at this moment, his face lacked its usual composure, replaced by a solemn expression.

Elder Qian stood behind him, a peak first-grade Golden Immortal, with a lean face and fair skin, holding a whisk.

He cultivated water-based techniques, specializing in support and trapping enemies, and had a gloomy personality, rarely speaking.

Elder Sun stood beside Elder Qian, also a peak first-grade Golden Immortal, with a burly build, broad shoulders and a powerful build, holding a massive warhammer.

He cultivated earth-based techniques, specializing in defense and suppression, and was known for his volatile temper, easily angered.

But now, however, his anger was suppressed, replaced by a hint of unease.

Elder Li stood at the very back, a first-grade Golden Immortal, the lowest in cultivation among the four.

He cultivated fire-based techniques, specializing in attack and burst damage, and

was known for his flamboyant personality and penchant for showing off. But now, he remained silent, head bowed, lost in thought.

The combined aura of the four formed a massive mountain, solidifying the air in the plaza.

The Celestial Venerable emerged from the hall, clad in a golden robe, a long sword at his waist, golden holy light swirling around him, exuding majesty.

His gait was steady, each step resounding firmly on the white jade floor.

He reached the center of the plaza, his gaze sweeping over the four elders, his eyes devoid of any warmth.

“The Guiyuan Sect isn’t large, and Guiyuanzi is a third-grade Golden Immortal. But I dislike trouble. Once you arrive at the Guiyuan Sect, don’t waste words; just ask for the person directly. If Guiyuanzi knows what’s good for him, hand over his soul, and I won’t pursue the matter. If he doesn’t…”

He didn’t finish his sentence, but his meaning was clear.

No need to say it aloud; everyone understood.

Elder Zhao stepped forward and whispered, “Palace Master, although Guiyuan Sect is not large, it is still a human sect. Won’t our direct demand for someone provoke dissatisfaction from other human forces? What if the Qingyun Sword Sect and the Wanfa Sect intervene…”

The Heavenly Extreme Venerable sneered, his eyes filled with contempt and disdain: “Qingyun Sword Sect? Wanfa Sect? Do they dare?”

He paused, his gaze sweeping across the distant horizon, his voice carrying an undeniable domineering air: “Even if they had a hundred lives, they wouldn’t dare oppose the Heavenly Extreme Palace. Besides, we’re not going to wipe out

an entire sect; we’re just going to demand one person. If Guiyuanzi can’t hand over the person, that’s his problem. If he can, everyone will be at peace. I want to see who dares to break ties with the Heavenly Extreme Palace for the sake of a mere Guiyuan Sect.”

Elder Zhao said no more and stepped aside.

The Palace Master was right. Although Guiyuan Sect was a human force, it had never been the core of humanity.

The Qingyun Sword Sect and the Wanfa Sect were the backbone of humanity in the Seventeenth Heaven.

What is the Guiyuan Sect?

Just a small, insignificant branch of the human race.

Those major human powers wouldn’t risk offending the Tianji Palace for the sake of the Guiyuan Sect.

The Tianji Venerable leaped into the air, transforming into a golden streak of light, flying towards the Guiyuan Sect.

His speed was extreme, leaving only a faint golden afterimage before vanishing instantly into the distance.

The four elders exchanged a glance and quickly followed, transforming into four golden beams of light.

Five golden beams streaked across the sky at incredible speed, traversing thousands of miles of mountains and rivers in an instant.
Above, three blazing suns hung high, their golden, silver, and crimson rays intertwining and scattering, making the five golden beams exceptionally conspicuous. Guiyuan Sect, Front Hall.

The main hall is built of bluestone, simple and ancient, lacking the splendor of the Tianji Hall or the mysterious depths of the Demon Emperor’s Palace.

The pillars in the hall are engraved with the achievements of the Guiyuan Sect’s past patriarchs, each relief telling the story of the sect’s history.

Inside the hall stands a tall statue of the patriarch, carved from the finest warm jade, lifelike, with a gentle smile in his eyes.

That is the patriarch of Taoism, the ancient master who comprehended the Great Luo Golden Scripture and founded the Taoist lineage, long since ascended to a higher realm.

Li Qingyun sat cross-legged on a futon, facing the patriarch’s statue, yet unable to calm his mind.

His brows were furrowed, his eyelids twitched slightly, and a heavy weight pressed on his heart, making it hard to breathe.

Kai’s trial was in the next two days, and Guiyuanzi was not in the sect.

His mind was preoccupied, making it impossible for him to cultivate in peace.

He opened his eyes, sighed, stood up, walked to the hall entrance, and gazed into the distance.

The sky was blue, the clouds were thin, and the wind was gentle.

Everything was calm, but his heart was far from calm.

Just then, a disciple stumbled in, his face pale, his voice trembling, his lips quivering, barely able to speak: “Elder Li… Elder Li! It’s terrible! The Hall Master of the Heavenly Pole Palace, Venerable Heavenly Pole, is flying towards our Guiyuan Sect with four Golden Immortal Elders! They’re… they’re almost at the mountain gate!”

Li Qingyun’s expression instantly changed. He abruptly stood up, grabbed the long sword at his waist, and strode out of the front hall.

His fingers trembled slightly, not from fear, but from anger.

The Heavenly Pole Palace was going too far; a bounty wasn’t enough, they had to come and search their own sect?

Did they really think the Guiyuan Sect was a pushover, to be bullied at will?

“Pass down the order: activate the mountain-protecting formation! All disciples, be on high alert!”

“Yes!”

The order echoed throughout the mountain gate, and disciples rushed out from all directions, weapons in hand, their expressions tense.

The mountain-protecting formation lit up, a pale golden light shield enveloping the entire mountain gate. Dense runes flowed across the shield, flickering and radiating powerful defensive energy.

But Li Qingyun knew that this formation couldn’t stop the Heavenly Venerable.

A Golden Immortal of the third rank was not someone a formation could withstand.

But this formation represented the Guiyuan Sect’s attitude—not just anyone could trespass.

Li Qingyun stood before the mountain gate, the veins bulging on his hand gripping his sword hilt.

His robes fluttered in the mountain wind, his gaze fixed on the distance, his eyes filled with vigilance.

The Heavenly Venerable arrived quickly.

Five golden streaks of light flew from the horizon, like five shooting stars, trailing long flames, landing before the Guiyuan Sect’s mountain gate.

The golden light dissipated, revealing five figures before Li Qingyun.

Leading them was the Heavenly Venerable, clad in a long golden robe, his aura powerful and imposing.

His gaze fell upon Li Qingyun as if he were an insignificant ant. Behind him stood four Golden Immortal elders, their auras robust and their expressions cold, like four iron towers.

Li Qingyun took a deep breath, suppressing his fear, and clasped his hands in a respectful greeting. His hands trembled, but his voice remained steady.

“Junior Li Qingyun, Elder of the Guiyuan Sect, greets the Heavenly Venerable. The Sect Master is not in the sect; he has gone out on business. May I ask what brings you here, Venerable?”

“Going out on business?” The Heavenly Venerable sneered, a mocking smile playing on his lips. “What business?”

Li Qingyun hesitated, his mind racing.

He knew that if he didn’t tell the truth, the Heavenly Venerable would search the sect.

It was better to confess than let him find out; at least it would make the Guiyuan Sect appear open and honest.

Moreover, the sect leader was indeed absent; they had indeed gone to the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge—that was a fact, and even the Heavenly Venerable couldn’t find any fault with it.

“The sect leader went to the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge to request an audience with the Demon Emperor Qingqiu. As for the specifics, this junior does not know.”

“The Ten Thousand Demon Ridge?”

The Heavenly Venerable’s eyes narrowed slightly, a cold glint flashing within them. His voice suddenly deepened. “What did Guiyuanzi go to the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge for? What did he want to see the Demon Emperor Qingqiu for?”

Li Qingyun shook his head: “This junior does not know.”

The Heavenly Venerable stared at him, silent for a moment.

His gaze, sharp as a hawk’s, swept over Li Qingyun.

Li Qingyun felt his very soul tremble, as if every thought of his was being seen through.

But he gritted his teeth, not allowing himself to reveal a flaw.

Then the Heavenly Venerable smiled. That smile was cold, so cold that it lowered the surrounding temperature, like the biting wind of December, piercing to the bone.

“You don’t know? Fine, I’ll ask you then. A few days ago, didn’t Guiyuanzi bring back a wisp of purple divine soul?”

Li Qingyun’s heart sank, as if gripped tightly by an invisible hand.

His expression changed slightly, but he quickly regained his composure.

He remained silent for a moment, his mind racing, weighing the pros and cons.

He knew he couldn’t hide it any longer.

Since Venerable Tianji could find Guiyuan Sect, it meant he already had concrete clues.

If he denied it, Venerable Tianji would definitely search the sect.

Finding the Soul-Nourishing Jade Bottle in the secret chamber would only make things more troublesome.

He gritted his teeth and slowly spoke, his voice low and respectful: “Venerable One, it is true. But that soul was discovered by our sect leader during an inspection. At the time, the soul was on the verge of death, and the sect leader, out of kindness, brought it back to the Yuan Sect for recuperation.

We did not know that the soul was the target of the Heavenly Extreme Palace’s pursuit. If we had known, we certainly would not have…”

“Enough nonsense.” Venerable Heavenly Extreme interrupted him, his tone full of impatience, “Where is that soul now?”

Li Qingyun lowered his head, not daring to look into Venerable Heavenly Extreme’s eyes, his voice carrying a hint of helpless sigh: “That soul was taken to the Myriad Demon Ridge by the sect leader.”

Venerable Heavenly Extreme frowned, a trace of doubt and apprehension flashing in his eyes: “Took it to the Myriad Demon Ridge? What for?”

“The sect leader said that the soul needs the Eternal Soul Wood to reshape its physical body, so he took it to the Myriad Demon Ridge to obtain the Eternal Soul Wood.” Venerable

Heavenly Extreme was silent for a moment, a trace of apprehension flashing in his eyes.

Myriad Demon Ridge, the territory of the Demon Emperor Qingqiu.

Although Qingqiu’s cultivation was also at the third rank of Golden Immortal, the difference between him and Guiyuanzi was not significant.

Moreover, the demon race had been operating in the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge for tens of thousands of years, with numerous restrictions and dense formations, making it extremely dangerous for outsiders to break in.

Moreover, Qingqiu has always been xenophobic and dislikes associating with the gods.

If he rashly leads people to the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge to demand the soul, it might provoke a backlash from the demons.

In that case, not only would he fail to obtain the soul, but he would also offend the demons and get himself into a lot of trouble.

But he was unwilling to not go.

That supreme treasure was right in front of him, and he couldn’t just watch it slip away.

Guiyuanzi was taking the soul to the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge to seek the Eternal Soul Wood. If Guiyuanzi succeeded, the supreme treasure would fall into Guiyuanzi’s hands.

He couldn’t allow that to happen.

“Let’s go to the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge.”

Venerable Tianji turned around, leaped into the air, and transformed into a golden streak of light, flying towards the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge.

His speed was extremely fast, leaving only a faint golden afterimage.

He had to retrieve Kai’s soul before Guiyuanzi obtained the Eternal Soul Wood.

The four elders exchanged glances and quickly followed.

Five golden lights pierced the sky and disappeared into the distance.

Before the mountain gate, only Li Qingyun and a group of Guiyuan Sect disciples remained, standing alone.

Li Qingyun stood before the gate, watching the five golden lights gradually disappear, his heart filled with worry.

His brows were furrowed, his fingers gripping the hilt of his sword tightly.

The young master was preparing for his trial at Wan Yao Ridge. If the Heavenly Venerable led his men to cause trouble at this time, Wan Yao Ridge would surely descend into chaos, and the young master might even die there.

He had to inform the sect leader as soon as possible.

He turned and strode into the sect, taking out a communication jade slip. He infused it with his divine sense, leaving a line of text.

His fingers trembled slightly, but the handwriting was clear and powerful.

“Sect Leader, the Heavenly Venerable has led his men to Wan Yao Ridge, targeting the young master. Please prepare immediately.”

He held the jade slip in his palm, activating his spiritual power. The jade slip transformed into a stream of light and flew into the distance.

The light flashed and disappeared into the sky.

Li Qingyun stood at the entrance of the main hall, gazing in the direction where the stream of light had vanished, remaining silent for a long time.

The disciples behind him were still whispering amongst themselves, some fearful, some angry, some bewildered.

Li Qingyun remained silent. He turned and walked into the main hall, knelt before the statue of the patriarch, closed his eyes, and silently prayed.

“Patriarch above, I beg you to protect the young master’s safety, and to protect the Guiyuan Sect’s safety.”

Outside the hall, the wind had stopped, and the clouds had dispersed.

Three blazing suns hung high, their golden, silver, and crimson rays casting a dark golden glow upon the earth. Before the mist had fully dissipated over the northern region of the Seventeenth Heaven, Qingqiu personally led Kai and Guiyuanzi, braving the morning dew, straight to the entrance of the Primordial Soul Forest, the deepest part of the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge.

Along the way, countless demons lay dormant, spirit birds folded their wings, and the air was filled with an ancient and eerie aura of divine souls. Even Guiyuanzi, a Golden Immortal of the third rank, couldn’t help but appear solemn, daring not to slacken his guard in the slightest.

The entrance to the Primordial Soul Forest was hidden in a canyon deep within the Ten Thousand Demon Ridge. It wasn’t an ordinary passage, but a massive stone gate that had stood for millennia.

The stone gate was about ten zhang high and five zhang wide, entirely constructed of unknown, dark, strange stones. Its surface was smooth as a mirror, yet it was covered with densely packed ancient soul race runes.

The runes, winding and twisting like rushing rivers or coiled serpents, shimmered with an eerie blue light in the dim canyon, exuding an ancient majesty and eeriness, silently warning intruders of the perilous nature of this place.

Beneath the stone gate, two demon cultivators clad in black beast armor stood silently, their figures as upright as pine trees, their expressions solemn and cold, their auras refined, both possessing the cultivation of a ninth-grade True Immortal.

They gripped a jet-black spear tightly in their hands, its tip gleaming with a chilling light, guarding the stone entrance without even blinking, like two emotionless stone statues.

Qingqiu didn’t stop, walking to the stone gate. His gaze swept over the two guards, his tone calm yet carrying an undeniable authority, uttering only one word: “Open.”

As soon as he finished speaking, the two demon guards didn’t hesitate, simultaneously plunging their spears into the pre-designated grooves in the ground. Their spiritual energy surged wildly, continuously pouring into the grooves.

In an instant, the ancient runes on the stone gate seemed to activate, a sudden burst of blue light. At first, it was just a faint point of light, then it grew brighter and brighter, becoming increasingly dazzling. The blue light intertwined and formed a massive net of light, enveloping the entire stone gate.

With a deep, rumbling sound, the stone gate slowly opened inwards. From the cracks, an extremely dense darkness and aura of divine souls rushed out. Inside, there was no ground, no sky, only boundless blackness, like an abyss that devoured everything.

In the darkness, crisscrossing paths could be vaguely seen, like a maze, winding and twisting into unknown depths, their end unseen, their hidden dangers unknown.

Qingqiu’s voice came from behind, carrying a hint of warning and scrutiny: “The first trial, the Soul Forest Maze. This maze is no ordinary maze; it is filled with ancient Soul Clan restrictions and illusion arrays.

The restrictions will injure you upon contact, and the illusion arrays will bewitch your soul, distort your senses, and cause you to lose your way, ultimately trapping you within the maze, your soul slowly eroded away.

Only by guarding your true self, breaking through the illusion arrays, and finding the true exit can you enter the second trial. Remember, a disordered mind leads to a disordered soul, and a disordered soul leads to certain death.”

Kai’s purple soul trembled slightly. He didn’t utter any unnecessary words; he knew that any words were meaningless at this moment. Only by passing the trial could he obtain the Eternal Soul Wood, rebuild his physical body, and avenge himself.

After a moment’s hesitation, he transformed into a condensed purple streak of light and plunged into the stone gate without hesitation, instantly swallowed by the endless darkness.

The surroundings fell into deathly silence; there was no wind, no light, and he couldn’t even sense his own existence. Only the boundless darkness enveloped him like a tidal wave, pressing down on his soul, making it feel slightly suffocated.

Kai’s soul hovered in the void, the warm golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture automatically illuminating a three-foot radius around him, becoming the only light in this darkness, and his only support.

He steadied himself, urged his soul, and tried to fly forward, but after only a few dozen feet, the path ahead suddenly split into three. All three paths were identical, leading to endless darkness, without any markings or distinctions, as if mocking his ignorance and insignificance.

Kai didn’t make a hasty decision. He focused his mind, activating the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture, attempting to probe the aura of the three paths.

The golden light was immediately blocked by an invisible force in the darkness, making it impossible to detect anything.

Left with no other option, he relied on his intuition and chose the leftmost path, transforming into a purple ray and flying swiftly away.

After flying less than a hundred feet, a pitch-black stone wall suddenly appeared ahead. The wall was tall and thick, constructed entirely of mysterious black stone, and covered with countless ancient soul runes. The runes flickered with a faint blue light, emanating an eerie aura of restriction.

Kai’s heart sank; he knew he had encountered the first restriction in the maze.

Without pausing, he activated the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture, enveloping his divine soul, and tried to pass through the stone wall.

But the instant the golden light touched the wall, the soul runes on the stone wall suddenly lit up.

A violent black spiritual energy shockwave erupted instantly, slamming into the golden light with a muffled “bang.” The golden light trembled violently, and Kai’s divine soul was violently thrown back. A sharp pain shot through the depths of his soul, nearly causing it to dissipate.

“It’s not a physical wall, it’s a soul-binding restriction, specifically designed to target soul attacks,”

Kai thought to himself. He dared not attempt anything more rashly and could only slowly retreat back to the fork in the road, his expression grave.

Since the first path was blocked, he had no choice but to take the middle one. This time, he was exceptionally cautious, slowing his pace and constantly watching his surroundings. The golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture remained at its maximum, a vigilant defense.

This time, he flew for much longer than before, covering hundreds of feet. The surrounding darkness grew increasingly dense, like solidified ink. The golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture was constantly compressed, gradually shrinking from three feet to one foot,

and its radiance dimmed considerably. Even more terrifying, a strange force began to erode his soul. His consciousness gradually blurred, and he seemed to hear countless whispers.

There were familiar voices and unfamiliar roars; these voices entwined around his soul, as if countless invisible hands were tearing at his consciousness, pulling at his soul, trying to drag him into endless depravity.

“It’s an illusion array!”

Kai’s heart skipped a beat, and he instantly regained his senses.

He knew that once trapped in an illusion array, his mind would be lost, and his soul would be completely swallowed by the maze.

He gritted his teeth, enduring the stinging pain in his soul, and with all his might, activated the Great Luo Golden Scripture, frantically channeling the remaining spiritual power within his body into the golden light.

“Buzz—”

A deep Daoist sound rang out, and the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture suddenly surged, like a blazing sun, instantly dispelling the surrounding darkness for a moment.

In that fleeting moment of light, Kai vaguely saw the outline of the exit—just a hundred feet ahead, a faint blue light flickered, the marker for the maze’s exit.

Just as he was about to sprint forward, the illusion array suddenly intensified, the surrounding scenery instantly distorted, the outline of the exit disappeared, and in its place appeared countless familiar figures.

Lin Yuan, Zhao Tieshan, Old Man Xu, and the dead disciples of Freedom Valley, covered in blood, stretched out their hands towards him, wailing softly, expressing endless pain and resentment.

“Kai, save us…” “Revenge…we must take revenge…”

Kai’s soul trembled violently, grief and guilt surged into his heart, his consciousness blurred again, and his steps involuntarily stopped.

At this critical moment, deep within his sea of ​​consciousness, Bei Mingyuan’s voice suddenly rang out, cold and clear: “Kai, wake up! This is an illusion array! It’s fake! You can’t be deceived, have you forgotten your mission? Have you forgotten that you must rebuild your physical body and take revenge?”

Bei Mingyuan’s voice was like a thunderclap, instantly awakening Kai.

He snapped back to his senses, a resolute glint in his eyes. Suppressing all his emotions, he ignored the illusions, channeling all his spiritual power into a streak of purple light, and charged towards the exit he remembered.

Illusions constantly interfered, countless eerie shadows lunging at him, but all were deflected by the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture.

A distance of several hundred feet now felt like an insurmountable chasm; with each inch he flew, the piercing pain in his soul intensified, and the interference of the illusion array grew stronger.

Just as he was about to give up, a blue light shone again ahead; the exit was near.

Kai gritted his teeth, mustered his last ounce of strength, broke free of the illusion array’s constraints, and plunged into the exit.

Instantly, the darkness vanished, light flooded in, and he finally escaped the Soul Forest Maze.

Emerging from the maze, a vast, open square space unfolded before him, a stark contrast to the endless darkness within. The second level was a wide, square space.

The space was small, only a hundred feet in circumference, surrounded by towering, steep black rock walls carved with ancient soul runes that emitted a faint blue light, casting an eerie glow over the entire space.

In the very center of the space, a dense swarm of soul beasts gathered, their numbers immense—at least a hundred at a glance—a dark, overwhelming mass, exuding a thick, bloodthirsty aura that sent chills down one’s spine.

These soul beasts were not physical entities, but rather formed from pure black mist, their shapes varied. Some resembled agile black wolves, baring their fangs and fierce eyes;

others were like majestic tigers, with thick limbs and an imposing presence;

some were like long, slithering snakes, their bodies nimble, their tongues flicking;

still others were like soaring eagles, their wingspans exceeding ten feet, their talons sharp and pointed.

Their eyes were all blood-red, like burning flames, flashing with a bloodthirsty light in the dim space, fixed intently on Kai at the entrance of the space.

A silent roar escaped its throat, as if it might pounce at any moment and tear his soul to shreds.

Kai’s soul hovered at the entrance, tightly enveloped by the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture, his expression extremely solemn.

He quickly probed the cultivation levels of these soul beasts, his heart sinking. Each soul beast’s cultivation level was between the fifth and seventh rank of the True Immortal Realm, with more than a dozen reaching the peak of the ninth rank, only one step away from the Golden Immortal Realm.

Hundreds of True Immortal Realm soul beasts—if he had a physical body, he could easily defeat them with his own combat power.

But now he only had a weak wisp of soul left, and the power he could use was extremely limited. Although the Great Luo Golden Scripture could protect his soul and withstand soul attacks, it could not initiate attacks, only passively defend.

“I can’t fight head-on, I can only outsmart them.”

Kai quickly calculated in his mind, his eyes fixed on the group of soul beasts, trying to find their weaknesses.

Soul beasts are formed from divine souls, and their attacks are purely divine soul attacks. The Great Luo Golden Scripture, however, perfectly counters all divine soul attacks, meaning these soul beasts cannot harm him.

Conversely, he lacks offensive means and cannot kill these soul beasts. Once entangled, his divine soul will be continuously depleted, and the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture will eventually dim and dissipate. At that point, he will still be devoured by the soul beasts.

After a moment of silence, Kai made a bold and risky decision.

He wouldn’t engage the soul beasts, but instead flew directly towards the other end of the space. As long as he escaped this space, he would have passed the second trial.

He knew this was the only way out, and also the most dangerous. Once entangled by the soul beasts, escape would be difficult.

Having made up his mind, Kai no longer hesitated, activating the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture, transforming it into a purple stream of light, and rushing towards the horde of soul beasts.

He didn’t take a detour, but instead passed directly through the center of the horde, attempting to escape the space as quickly as possible.

Seeing the purple light approach, the soul beasts were instantly enraged, letting out silent roars as they surged forward like a tidal wave, their dense shadows covering the entire sky.

Their claws, fangs, and tails all aimed at Kai’s soul, each attack carrying a violent soul-shaking force, attempting to tear apart the golden light protection of the Great Luo Golden Scripture.

“Bang! Bang! Bang!”

A series of impacts rang out, the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture trembled violently, rippling outwards, yet it steadily blocked all attacks.

Those soul beasts at the forefront were bounced back the moment their claws touched the golden light; some were severely injured by the recoil, their black mist dissipating significantly.

Several weaker soul beasts were even shattered by the recoil, turning into a sky full of black mist that vanished into the void.

These soul beasts seemed to feel no pain or fear. They charged relentlessly, wave after wave, their attacks like a never-ending tide.

Although the golden light of the Great Luo Golden Scripture was sturdy, it gradually dimmed under the continuous onslaught of hundreds of True Immortal Realm soul beasts. Kai’s soul, weakened by the constant drain, grew increasingly painful.

Even more terrifying, the higher-level True Immortal Realm ninth-grade soul beasts seemed to have sensed the weakness of the golden light. They ceased their blind attacks and instead gathered together, unleashing a massive black soul shockwave that slammed into Kai.

This shockwave was incredibly powerful, stronger than the combined attack of a dozen or so soul beasts alone. Upon impacting the golden

light, it instantly caved in, nearly shattering. Kai’s soul was violently shaken, spitting out a mouthful of soul blood, and the purple light dimmed slightly.

“This can’t go on, we have to speed it up!”

Kai thought to himself, gritting his teeth and using all his strength to activate the remaining spiritual power in his body, pouring it into the Great Luo Golden Scripture. The golden light surged again, temporarily blocking the soul beast’s attack.