Chapter 1191-1197 (8.5k+ words)

The devout prayers echoed in the underground chamber, resembling ancient chants, ancient and mysterious. This group of people naturally belonged to the Shadow Clan.

With the combined efforts of Li Ping's disciples, almost all the Shadow Clan members were captured in the Great Dawn small world. Li Ping knew that the entity behind the Shadow Sea did not mind his followers having other beliefs. So, after coercion, temptation, and finally demonstrating the reality of coexistence in front of all Shadow Clan members, they quickly adapted to this way of life. Some even had a more firm and fervent belief in the Holy Emperor than in the Shadow Sea. After all, in times of danger and extinction, the Shadow Sea had not shown any miracles. The Holy Emperor, on the other hand, regularly distributed a large amount of resources to everyone.

In the darkness, as he listened to the synchronized singing of the Shadow Clan, Li Ping felt scattered specks of golden source power generating within him.

"The faith power generated by just a hundred Shadow Clan members surpasses that of the entire Great Dawn populace."

"What secrets are hidden within the Shadow Clan..."

Li Ping had already sent the bodies of some rebellious Shadow Clan members to Yin Shangren for research. It was a welcome change for him, who was stuck in his research on the New New Law. Perhaps a new research topic would spark unexpected inspiration.

Of course, Li Ping was not particularly concerned about the true cause behind the unique physique of the Shadow Clan. The cause did not matter; as long as it could be used for him.

Moving swiftly, Li Ping arrived near the prayer space, another enclosed area.

"Wang Xuan, how is the research going? Can the transplanted flesh promote the reproduction of the Shadow Clan?"

Wang Xuanba, who was focused and looking ahead, heard his master's arrival, quickly withdrew his gaze, respectfully saluted, and reported, "After several experiments, I have found the optimal combination of exotic beast flesh. I named it the 'Life Yuan Embryo.' With sufficient male and female vital essence, it can rapidly cultivate a large number of offspring."

"But..."

"After all, it is not nurtured in a mother's body. These offspring are born extremely weak, with a potentially short life expectancy," Wang Xuanba cautiously said.

Unlike the previous hearty and robust appearance, the current Wang Xuanba had a slender figure. Under Li Ping's careful guidance and after devouring many exotic beast flesh, he had mastered the abilities of numerous exotic beasts. His understanding of exotic beasts had even surpassed Li Ping.

Feeling troubled by the low birth rate of the Shadow Clan, he had volunteered to alleviate his master's concerns. Thus, he created the somewhat shocking "Life Yuan Embryo."

Composed entirely of pink, undulating exotic beast flesh, its interior consisted of sealed compartments connected to the central embryo by numerous ducts. While providing energy for the development of offspring, it allowed the Life Yuan Embryo to absorb the characteristics of the many offspring it nurtured.

"It's a win-win process. Each new offspring cultivated becomes more intelligent and powerful."

"Although the progress is very small, it can be accumulated in quantity, achieving transformation within the expected time."

"If I'm not mistaken, in the future, the Life Yuan Embryo might not even need male and female vital essence and could create life on its own, given enough energy."

Talking about exotic beasts, even in front of his teacher, Wang Xuanba's tone was full of confidence.

Li Ping's gaze pierced through the darkness, looking at the distant pulsating, breathing-like giant "meatball."

"I only need the number of them working for me simultaneously; as for their lifespan..."

"If they die, I'll recreate them."

The Holy Emperor's words were chilling, and Wang Xuanba did not react unusually after hearing them. In his eyes, the headless Shadow Clan was no different from those exotic beasts; they couldn't even be considered human.

"All matters here require strict confidentiality. Even towards your senior brothers and sisters," Li Ping emphasized once again.

"I understand," Wang Xuanba said in a deep voice.

After Li Ping left, he resumed his research work. Compared to dealing with the various complexities outside, he preferred these pure and simple matters.

In just a few years, the robust youth who once stood below the Dissociation Mountain had undergone enormous changes in his life trajectory. However, among Li Ping's disciples, Wang Xuanba was not the one who changed the most. Wang Xuanba's actions still faintly reflected his past self.

The one who had completely transformed was Li Ping's fifth disciple, Ou Shangtian. After coming to the Great Dawn with his father and being accepted as Li Ping's direct disciple, he had changed from being silent, cautious, and lacking confidence to the present confident youth.

Decisive in his actions, he looked down upon everything. Although he was the youngest among the disciples, in terms of true strength, he surpassed them all. In the entire Great Dawn, besides Li Ping, there was probably no one who could be his opponent. Even if Li Ping intervened, without using some secret techniques, subduing Ou Shangtian would not be an easy task.

Apart from the two peculiar items innate to Ou Shangtian, the Kun Qian Bone Hand and the Book of Ten Thousand Deaths, he had recently caught a Seven-Colored Divine Light in the fishing pond under Li Ping's guidance.

With the protection of the Seven-Colored Divine Light, coupled with the extraordinary escape abilities of the Kun Qian Bone Hand and the Book of Ten Thousand Deaths, Ou Shangtian's survival skills even surpassed most of the Hedo practitioners in the Xuanhuang Realm.

After effortlessly suppressing several small worlds a few times, this young man became increasingly arrogant. Fortunately, with his father and Li Ping suppressing him, he did not do anything too outrageous.

During the previous collaboration with Wang Xuanba to capture the Shadow Clan, he became interested in Wang Xuanba's mysterious beast abilities. So, he requested the cultivation method for the "Creation Oven Technique" from Li Ping and had been diligently practicing it.

Li Ping was not worried that Ou Shangtian would lose control. He would intervene decisively before any signs of loss of control appeared.

The golden source power condensed by the Shadow Clan had been quietly injected into the bodies of key figures in the Great Dawn by him. This power, which was already infinitely close to the level of a true immortal, was not something these so-called geniuses could perceive. Only the ancient cultivator like Bai Hua could discern the details.

"Once they fall into my trap, they can only sell their lives effectively. After all, all gifts have long been assigned a price."

With the pure golden source power as a trump card, he could now begin to contemplate the invasion plan for the Xuanhuang Realm.

Chapter 1192: Soul Returning After a Thousand Years

Even though the formal strength of the Great Dawn of the Holy Dynasty was rapidly expanding, it was still far from being able to challenge the Ten Thousand Immortals League and the Five Elders Council.

Therefore, in the initial stage of the plan, the focus remained on infiltration and erosion.

During the Xuanhuang upheaval over half a year ago, the Immortal Alliance suffered losses among its grassroots cultivators. There were now rumors circulating secretly that in the upcoming major recruitment exam, the Immortal Alliance would expand its intake.

Li Ping had already selected a group of promising talents, preparing to seize this opportunity to send them into the Immortal Alliance.

Although grassroots cultivators seemed insignificant, they could slowly corrode the internal governance of the Immortal Alliance like worms. With time, as their cultivation and achievements increased, their positions would rise, and the resulting harm and influence would also grow.

The investment cost was extremely low, but the effect was excellent. The more, the better.

"With the existence of the golden source power web, not only can they smoothly infiltrate the Immortal Alliance, but I can also control them from beginning to end."

"No need to meet in person; we can complete information and even material exchanges."

"This method of contact is far more concealed and secure than that of the Immortal Alliance and the Five Elders Council; they will find it extremely difficult to discover."

In addition to internally corroding the Immortal Alliance, reducing its potential was also necessary.

"In the Xuanhuang Realm, all the outstanding practitioners in the next hundred years must be under control. If they cannot be used by me, they should be eliminated as soon as possible."

"Even mislead the assassination plan to blame the Five Elders Council."

"I'll sit back and watch the tiger fight..."

While using various means to weaken the Immortal Alliance, Li Ping was also certain not to slow down the development of the Great Dawn of the Holy Dynasty.

Once the number of Shadow Clan reached a certain scale, and enough pure golden source power was collected, Li Ping would use it to modify the Heaven and Earth Spirit Array, truly turning the Great Dawn Small World into a fortress hidden and floating in the void.

"I can feel that since people like Yin Shangren and Ou Daizi came to serve me in the Great Dawn Small World, the Saint Dynasty's atmosphere, which was already bottlenecked, has the possibility of breaking through again."

"This is a give-and-take; I've absorbed the luck originally belonging to the Immortal Alliance."

"However, it's not enough for a complete breakthrough."

"In addition to absorbing external luck, which requires time to accumulate, the position of the Great Dawn Small World itself is also a limiting factor. Perhaps it's time to consider upgrading the small world."

With a thought, Li Ping returned to the Saint Emperor's seat.

Not long after, Sun Erlang, surrounded by a killing aura, appeared in front of him.

The once brave and martial youth had grown into the terrifying God of Slaughter in the Holy Dynasty, making people fearful.

Leading the Forbidden Army, he conquered various realms. Over these years, countless creatures from other small worlds didn't know how many died under Sun Erlang's hands.

"Greetings, Master!" Sun Erlang kneeled on one knee.

"How is the construction of the Heaven and Earth Spirit Array in various realms?" Li Ping asked.

"Eleven have been completed, and six are still under construction," Sun Erlang replied succinctly, simultaneously transmitting detailed information through divine sense.

"In recent times, we have temporarily stopped expansion. It's growing too fast, and we need to digest it properly. Those small worlds, if anyone has rebellious thoughts, show no mercy. I don't want a backfire when we officially go to war with the Immortal Alliance."

The meaning conveyed in Li Ping's words made Sun Erlang's spirit tremble.

Even though he knew that the Master had grand ambitions, it was the first time he clearly expressed the conquest plan against the Immortal Alliance.

This made Sun Erlang, who had found subjugating those small worlds as easy as cutting vegetables, without feeling any pressure or even finding it a bit boring, suddenly excited.

Li Ping naturally saw what Sun Erlang was thinking.

"Sheep see many, think the world is full of sheep. Not to mention the Immortal Alliance, even some of the small worlds hidden in the Xuanhuang Realm are not adversaries that our current Great Dawn of the Holy Dynasty can match." Li Ping said indifferently, pointing at Sun Erlang.

"Go visit this place. It is where the ancient Taiyan Sect is hidden. See if you can persuade them to join our alliance."

"The Taiyan Sect..." Sun Erlang's eyes flickered.

"Go. There's something special there, and you'll understand when you go. Don't force it; my purpose is just to let you restrain the arrogance in your heart."

Different from the strategy for cultivating Ou Shangtian, when Sun Erlang's path deviated slightly, Li Ping chose to actively correct it.

Besides having a deeper relationship with Sun Erlang, Li Ping also needed a powerful senior martial brother to suppress all the other disciples.

Therefore, he had to spend a bit more effort on cultivation.

"I hope this boy gains something from the visit to the Taiyan Sect."

Li Ping sat on the Saint Emperor's throne, contemplating.

Now, let's talk about how Sun Erlang, following the Saint Emperor's instructions, arrived at the tomb of Yi Xing.

After collecting Yi Xing's corpse and the scattered white papers, Sun Erlang headed straight to his destination.

"I didn't expect to find an ancient cultivator's tomb within the Great Dawn Realm. I wonder what use these papers that the teacher specifically asked me to collect have." On the way, Sun Erlang carefully studied them but couldn't discover their mysteries.

Putting aside his confusion, Sun Erlang quickly reached his destination.

Taihua Prefecture, Mount Taixuan.

"The Master said that the entrance to the Taiyan Sect is hidden within this mountain?"

After searching around, he found no traces of a spatial passage.

Sun Erlang couldn't help but feel a bit puzzled.

If he used brute force, he could forcefully open a passage within the mountain. However, this time, he was here to be a mediator, to persuade the other party to join the Holy Dynasty Alliance. It wouldn't be wise to recklessly destroy another sect's residence.

After some thought, Sun Erlang decided not to act rashly.

On Mount Taixuan, he chose a favorable location.

He dug a hole in the ground and then took out Yi Xing's bones.

Just as he was about to bury them...

A figure suddenly appeared behind Sun Erlang.

"As expected, you came!" Sun Erlang thought to himself.

However, he put on a facade of being on guard. "Who are you?!"

The figure ignored Sun Erlang, just staring blankly at Yi Xing's bones.

As if lost in some kind of memory, the figure remained motionless for a long time.

Sun Erlang wasn't a reckless warrior, so he didn't disturb the mysterious figure.

He just silently waited.

"If you waited a few more years, everything might have been different, big brother."

After a long time, the figure sighed, waved a sleeve toward Yi Xing's bones, and they disappeared instantly. Then, he turned to look at Sun Erlang.

"Young lad, why have you come?"

Sun Erlang looked at the seemingly similarly-aged face in front of him, hesitated for a moment, and truthfully explained his purpose.

(The chapter is complete.)

"Dàqǐ..."

The Taiyan Sect cultivator squinted, and it seemed that there were constantly flickering lights and shadows in his eyes.

"Dà Xuán?"

"Huh?"

Not knowing what he saw, he sounded surprised, then turned to Sun Erlang. "In just a few years, there's such a deviation? What's going on?"

Sun Erlang was completely puzzled, not understanding what the other party was talking about.

"Fascinating, come with me." The Taiyan Sect cultivator carefully examined Sun Erlang and then spoke.

After speaking, his figure instantly became transparent.

A silver illusionary road appeared beneath his feet, leading directly into the mountain.

Sun Erlang transformed into light, following closely behind.

Once they entered the mountain, the silver road disappeared.

Even the pit Sun Erlang had dug on Mount Taixuan silently returned to its original state.

"My name is Yishu, and the skeletal remains you brought back belong to my fellow clan member."

While walking, the Taiyan Sect disciple spoke to Sun Erlang.

"During the catastrophe when the laws could not coexist, and both immortals and mortals were affected, my fellow clan member retreated bravely, seeking refuge in a mortal's small world. Although he missed the path of immortality since then, he achieved the position of an Emperor among mortals. It can be said that fate has its own plans."

"After thousands of years, to meet again in such a way on this day is quite unexpected. Although we had foreseen this when we parted ways, it's still..."

"Fate is unpredictable!"

"Simulating illusions is different from the actual scene!"

Yishu sighed lightly, falling into silence.

"Simulation? Real scene?" Sun Erlang keenly caught the two key words in Yishu's words.

"The Taiyan Sect was renowned in ancient times for its divination arts. Is what he meant by simulation and deviation related to their predictions of the future?"

Descending deeper underground, when the scene appeared again before his eyes, they were already high in the sky.

The azure sky was clear, and below was an expanse of fertile farmland for thousands of miles.

Sun Erlang could clearly sense the numerous mortal auras here.

Yishu, however, flew into the sky ahead.

Sun Erlang quickly followed, feeling a sudden confusion.

Because after entering this small world, it seemed that Yishu had undergone some changes.

But for a moment, Sun Erlang couldn't pinpoint exactly where the change had occurred.

"I haven't sensed any danger, and Master will certainly not harm me..." Sun Erlang suppressed the uneasiness in his heart and continued to follow.

Not long after, in Sun Erlang's originally empty field of vision, a floating city suddenly appeared.

The city was surrounded by a transparent crystal wall. It was because of this crystal wall that Sun Erlang hadn't noticed this heavenly city earlier.

"Indeed, they have some means. Such a large city can be completely isolated." Sun Erlang thought to himself.

Yishu finally spoke again, "Taiyan Realm has always been borrowed by our Taiyan Sect. To avoid disturbing the mortal inhabitants of this realm, we built this crystal wall."

Regarding the issue Yishu mentioned about not disturbing mortals, Sun Erlang was somewhat skeptical.

But he didn't directly oppose it, just nodding slightly.

Passing through the transparent crystal wall, they officially entered the Taiyan Sect.

The moment his feet touched the ground, Sun Erlang suddenly sensed that countless pairs of eyes seemed to be looking at him simultaneously.

Among them were the auras of formidable Dao Integration experts.

Sun Erlang thought to himself, "The strength of the Taiyan Sect is well-preserved. How did they deal with the catastrophe when the laws could not coexist?"

As he delved deeper into the floating city, Sun Erlang's sense of unease grew stronger.

"It's too quiet here. It doesn't feel like a normal, lively city."

"And..."

Sun Erlang suddenly stopped.

He finally discovered where the abnormality in his heart was coming from.

The Taiyan Sect cultivators here, just like the tree people in the Spiritwood Realm, although having different faces, all emitted the same aura.

It was as if countless bodies belonged to the same person!

Although Sun Erlang was shocked, he didn't panic or let his mind run wild. Instead, he directly asked, "Senior Yì, what about your Taiyan Sect..."

Yìshù seemed to perceive Sun Erlang's confusion and smiled, "After meeting Senior Chén later, you will understand everything. However, please rest assured, our Taiyan Sect has always been clear about debts and grudges. Returning the remains of the Taiyan Sect disciple is considered a favor to our sect."

"Although the alliance you mentioned may not be realized, your personal safety is absolutely nothing to worry about."

Sun Erlang remained non-committal, refraining from expressing the words on the tip of his tongue.

Following Yìshù to the center of the floating city, they entered a blue transparent crystalline structure.

As if witnessing countless scenes of himself simultaneously entering, when Sun Erlang snapped out of the illusion, a handsome man with long hair standing at his waist appeared before him.

"Senior Chén." Yìshù arched his hand.

"Yì Xíng went to the Dà Xuán small world for a sect mission. Back then, due to aptitude issues, he couldn't enter the inner sect for cultivation, which left a lingering regret in his heart."

"Now that times have changed, the concepts of inner and outer sects have become a joke. Let Yì Xíng come back."

Chén, also known as Chén Tiān Hǎi, the Taiyan Sect senior whom Li Fan had met before, spoke casually.

"Thank you, Senior Brother." Yìshù respectfully bowed and then, transforming into a blue stardust, disappeared.

Chén Tiān Hǎi then turned his gaze to Sun Erlang.

In a startling revelation, he spoke, "According to the original trajectory, you, Sun Erlang, repeatedly sought enlightenment on Jiělí Mountain but eventually settled down, married, and had children. Seven years later, discontent with the excessive demands of a newly appointed magistrate, you killed in anger. Subsequently, you and your companion, Wáng Xuán Bà, seized the mountain and brought calamity to the region."

"Stirring up trouble for over a decade, you were ultimately wiped out by the imperial army. You fought to the death against Wáng Xuán Bà and were dismembered by chaotic blades."

Listening to the "fate" that belonged to him according to the other party, Sun Erlang couldn't help but raise an eyebrow.

"But now, everything is different."

"Your future..."

Chén Tiān Hǎi's figure became ethereal and blue.

However, after a moment, it returned to its original state.

"Wonderful! Beyond expectations!"

"The rise of the Holy Dynasty..." Chén Tiān Hǎi's eyes gleamed with a strange light.

"In just a few years, such a significant deviation..."

Muttering to himself, he seemed to have discovered something incredibly exciting.

"Do you know the origin of your master?" Chén Tiān Hǎi asked.

Sun Erlang just silently looked at Chén Tiān Hǎi.

"Well, don't say you don't know. Even if you know, you probably won't say, or can't say it." Chén Tiān Hǎi showed a mysterious smile.

Sun Erlang suddenly felt a bit uncomfortable.

"Wait, your cultivation technique..." Observing Sun Erlang, Chén Tiān Hǎi suddenly changed the topic, showing a hint of doubt.

"Is it the 'Sitting Mountain Art' from the Divine Wood Sect?"

"Could it be that your master was a member of the Divine Wood Sect back then?" Chén Tiān Hǎi seemed to have thought of something, looking somewhat puzzled.

"'Sitting Mountain Art'?" Upon hearing these three words, Sun Erlang felt a slight movement in his heart, sensing a familiar feeling.

"No, no." Without waiting for Sun Erlang to answer, Chén Tiān Hǎi shook his head, vetoing himself, "It's just a somewhat similar aura. Besides, it is said that 'Sitting Mountain Art' was the cultivation technique practiced by the Divine Wood Sect's divine tree in ancient times, exchanging cultivation for years. For ordinary cultivators, it is extremely arduous and slow to advance. Little friend, at such a young age, you've already achieved Nascent Soul. Obviously, it doesn't match."

Chén Tiān Hǎi self-mockingly smiled, looking at Sun Erlang with even greater curiosity.

"Indeed, I cultivate a profound technique personally passed down by my master. The rapid progress in my cultivation is mostly credited to this profound technique." Sun Erlang said in a deep voice.

"Well then, perhaps I was mistaken." Chén Tiān Hǎi did not argue further, bypassing the topic.

"Senior, is the Divine Wood Sect one of the ten ancient sects in the Immortal Dao?" Although he clarified the source of his cultivation technique, Sun Erlang still had some curiosity about the 'Sitting Mountain Art.' So, he directly asked.

Sun Erlang noticed that the Taiyan Sect was quite different from the strictly hierarchical ancient immortal sects he had in mind. There was almost no distinction between senior and junior; they addressed him as 'little friend' with familiarity, despite being a young outsider.

Chén Tiān Hǎi, knowing everything, gestured for Sun Erlang to sit down before saying, "The Divine Wood Sect is even older than our Immortal Dao's ten sects. They coexisted with ancient sects such as the Desolate God Sect, the Reincarnation Sect, which have long been extinct due to various reasons."

"Before the Immortal Dao was severed, some of them had already disappeared for various reasons."

"The Divine Wood Sect is said to have been named after a divine tree from beyond the boundary within their sect, which, according to legend, was a gift from the immortal realm. After taking root in the Xuanhuang realm, it displayed various unimaginable miracles. However, due to this divine tree, it attracted the dissatisfaction of the 'Endless Primordial Wall.' This ultimately led to their downfall. Truly, fortune and calamity are unpredictable."

"The meaning of the five characters 'Endless Primordial Wall' is, 'Since ancient times, it has appeared and will continue to exist eternally. It stands above the River of Life, like a wall supporting the heavens.' It is an ancient tree that originated from the birthplace of the Xuanhuang realm, holding the reins of immortality."

"As the saying goes, 'One mountain cannot accommodate two tigers.' The continuous growth of this boundary-breaking divine tree would inevitably threaten it. Hence, the demise of the Divine Wood Sect..."

Chén Tiān Hǎi eloquently narrated ancient stories.

For Sun Erlang, who had been immersed in cultivation and slaughter since entering the path of cultivation, this was the first time he had the opportunity to learn about these ancient secrets. He listened with great interest.

"These sects, like the Desolate God Sect and the Divine Wood Sect, seem different just from their names." Sun Erlang exclaimed.

Chén Tiān Hǎi chuckled, "That's natural. These sects were born since the opening of the Xuanhuang realm, intricately connected to the immortal realm. When the immortal realm existed, their status was naturally unshakable. However, if the immortal realm undergoes a major change and the Immortal Dao is severed, they will also flourish no more."

Sun Erlang nodded repeatedly.

"Little friend, do you know the origin of our Taiyan Sect?" Chén Tiān Hǎi suddenly changed the topic.

"I don't know, Senior." Sun Erlang honestly replied.

"Our Taiyan Sect is the direct inheritance of true immortals, bestowed with the 'Heavenly Sage Dà Fǎshī's ' Yǎn Tiān Jiǔ Juǎn.' It can foresee all possible changes in the future for a thousand years," Chén Tiān Hǎi proudly declared.

"Unlike those second-rate sects like the Heavenly Mechanism Sect, we don't rely on some mysterious aura sensitivity. Instead, with our powerful divination ability, we conduct a genuine preview of the future."

Sun Erlang suddenly recalled the word "simulation" he had heard from Yìshù.

"Little friend, take a look!" Chén Tiān Hǎi waved his hand, and a blue sphere instantly appeared in front of Sun Erlang.

Staring carefully, it seemed that there were countless overlapping scenes within the blue sphere.

The scenes were all moments of himself conversing with Chén Tiān Hǎi at this location.

However, Sun Erlang keenly noticed that in each of these scenes, his expression and actions were different.

There were even some scenes where he suddenly attacked here, only to be effortlessly killed by Chén Tiān Hǎi.

"These are all the possible futures we deduced after your arrival. However, during the time I interacted with you, we gained a clearer understanding of your temperament and strength. Therefore, some of these futures, which haven't reached a conclusion, have lost their significance."

With Chén Tiān Hǎi's words, about four-fifths of the scenes in the blue sphere suddenly dimmed.

"The remaining scenes presented are exactly in line with what Sun Erlang is experiencing at this moment.

Sun Erlang, watching this scene, seemed to understand something.

However, upon closer thought, he felt bewildered and unable to comprehend.

Chén Tiān Hǎi continued, "While we were talking, the number of deduced results corresponding to the future, based on the topic of our conversation, gradually decreased."

"In the end, after little friend left, our deductions about this matter came to an end, aligning with reality."

"A new deduction happened again."

The blue sphere dimmed completely.

After a moment of silence, a dazzling burst of blue light erupted again.

The sphere disappeared, turning into blue mist, floating in front of Sun Erlang.

The blue mist demonstrated countless possibilities for the entire Xuanhuang realm in the future.

"Deducing the Xuanhuang realm is essentially the same as deducing this small matter of meeting you. As long as we have enough information and correct the deductions promptly, we can simulate a future Xuanhuang realm."

"We can see further along the river of time compared to outsiders."

Chén Tiān Hǎi waved his hand, and the blue mist that had manifested various future scenes instantly retracted into his body.

The originally imposing Chén Tiān Hǎi suddenly transformed into a dreamy existence entirely composed of blue crystals.

This scene left Sun Erlang slightly stunned.

"Our Taiyan Sect has been deducing the future trajectory of the Xuanhuang realm, with almost no significant errors for over a thousand years."

"But now..."

Chén Tiān Hǎi stared straight at Sun Erlang.

"Like a mysterious figure suddenly appearing in this room, killing you, and then fleeing. This is entirely beyond reason, something that would not happen under normal circumstances..."

"We call it 'Beyond Variability.'"

The blue light on Chén Tiān Hǎi gradually subsided, and he returned to his normal appearance.

End of the chapter.

Chén Tiān Hǎi's eyes flashed with a strange light.

"My Taiyan Sect has secluded itself for thousands of years, rarely interacting with the outside world. Your master surprisingly knows our hiding place."

"He must have some understanding of us. Even so, he actively sent you to contact us..."

"This is a certainty that we would be interested in this 'Beyond Variability.'"

Hearing this, Sun Erlang was stunned, "Really?"

But thinking about the mysterious and unpredictable background of his master, possessing seemingly all-knowing abilities, Sun Erlang instantly felt reassured.

"In this world, there are indeed transcendent variables that exist. Some even profoundly influence and change the destiny of the Xuanhuang realm."

"Although our 'Hepatic Nine Scrolls' is claimed to be able to calculate everything under the heavens, if there are extraterrestrial visitors or true immortals descending from the heavens—events that surpass the very nature of heaven and earth—then we are naturally powerless."

Chén Tiān Hǎi openly admitted.

"However, our Taiyan Sect doesn't reject or fear the occurrence of these beyond-variable events," he said mysteriously, hinting at something unfinished.

"Extraterrestrial visitors?" Sun Erlang pondered.

But soon, he suppressed the slight disturbance in his heart.

Regardless of the master's origin, his current identity is the unique Holy Emperor of Daqi, holding the destiny of billions of living beings.

As the master's eldest disciple, he will forever stand firmly by his master's side.

"So, does Senior agree to the request for an alliance with us?" After a brief silence, Sun Erlang asked.

"If there's a chance of success, why would we refuse?" Chén Tiān Hǎi smiled faintly, not giving a direct answer.

"What does Senior mean?"

"If there's such a deviation in the simulated deduction, we naturally need to make corrections. Since the Holy Dynasty wishes to form an alliance with us, we won't refuse the scrutiny of potential allies, right?" Chén Tiān Hǎi said calmly.

"This..."

The request from the other party caught Sun Erlang off guard.

When he came here, the master didn't specify how to handle such matters.

"Er Lang, when you go there, you can decide on matters yourself. Taiyan Sect, important..."

"Or unimportant."

Sun Erlang suddenly recalled the last sentence his master said before leaving.

"If you're afraid of even a small Taiyan Sect, how will you contend for the Xuanhuang realm against the Myriad Immortals Alliance in the future?"

With a surge of confidence, Sun Erlang blurted out, "The Holy Dynasty welcomes Taiyan Sect at any time."

A glint of blue light flashed in Chén Tiān Hǎi's eyes.

Without responding, he seemed lost in thought.

"Since Little Friend has said so, our Taiyan Sect will send an envoy to accompany you to Daqi. To investigate the situation."

After a while, Chén Tiān Hǎi finally spoke.

Sun Erlang, for some reason, suddenly felt relieved, as if he had just narrowly escaped a life-threatening situation.

"Senior, when shall we set out?"

"No rush. You came from afar. It's not easy. Our Taiyan Sect hasn't had visitors for thousands of years."

"Besides, you've also brought back the remains of Yí Xíng."

After contemplating for a moment, Chén Tiān Hǎi asked, "I wonder if Little Friend is interested in our 'Simulation'?"

"Naturally, I am curious."

Chén Tiān Hǎi nodded, and the surroundings, the ground, and decorations disappeared in an instant.

The two seemed to appear in the void, facing a azure crystal emitting a captivating light.

"This is the 'Transformation Dao Stone.'"

Chén Tiān Hǎi's tone was inexplicable.

"Huàdào Shí Mǔ?" Sūn Èr Láng repeated these four characters.

Looking at the mysterious crystal not far away, Sūn Èr Láng was somewhat horrified to find that he couldn't distinguish the details on the surface of the crystal.

It seemed infinitely divisible, with each mirror-like edge having countless tiny surface extensions.

Just peering at it for a while, Sūn Èr Láng felt a dizzying sensation.

He immediately averted his gaze.

"Huàdào Shí Mǔ is the foundation of our Taiyan Sect. Although the Grand Master passed down the Taiyan Nine Scrolls, the method transcends the nature of heaven and man and is not something ordinary people can study. Even a peerless talent, to practice the Taiyan Nine Scrolls to perfection, would have to exhaust their life and be on the brink of death." Chén Tiān Hǎi flashed and appeared next to the massive azure crystal. His figure seemed to merge with the Transformation Dao Stone.

"Even for geniuses, the cultivation is so difficult, not to mention ordinary people. The characteristics of the Taiyan Nine Scrolls determine that our Taiyan Sect can only have a few disciples in each generation. With talent declining, the sect is difficult to expand. Perhaps one day, it will be challenging to even maintain the title of one of the Immortal Dao Ten Sects."

"This was calculated in our deduction, the fate of our Taiyan Sect."

"If there were no Transformation Dao Stone."

Chén Tiān Hǎi's tone suddenly changed.

"Even if it's just a small fragment of the Stone, it can instantly grant a mortal the divination ability comparable to a Harmony Dao expert. What a magnificent creation!"

"Little Friend, did you bring the white papers that Yí Xíng had with him before he died?" Chén Tiān Hǎi looked at Sūn Èr Láng and suddenly asked.

Sūn Èr Láng then suddenly remembered and quickly took out those white papers.

"These white papers have a name, called the 'Counter Calamity Treasure Box.' It was a common tool used by Taiyan Sect disciples in the past to practice divination abilities."

"There are a total of 49,999 pieces of paper. Just restore them to their original order, and the appearance of the treasure box can be reproduced."

"Would you like to try, Little Friend?" Chén Tiān Hǎi tossed the white papers into the air, letting them scatter randomly. Then he looked at Sūn Èr Láng and asked with a smile.

"Restore them in order?" Sūn Èr Láng had previously studied those white papers, all of them being identical with no special markings.

"All based on luck, with no special secret techniques?" Sūn Èr Láng tried asking.

Looking at Chén Tiān Hǎi's expression, Sūn Èr Láng recalculated in his mind and suddenly turned pale.

He decisively declined.

"That's it. For ordinary people, this is a task that may not be completed even if they spend their entire lives. But for Taiyan Sect disciples with the Transformation Dao Stone..."

"But in an instant!"

Chén Tiān Hǎi lightly pointed, and the scattered white papers madly danced in the air.

One by one, they arranged in sequence.

Finally, all the white papers returned to their positions. After a dazzling light, the treasure box opened.

A jade slip and a blue crystal.

The appearance of the Transformation Dao Stone in the treasure box seemed to resonate with the Transformation Dao Stone Mother.

Under the radiance of the stone mother, the color of the Transformation Dao Stone became even more profound.

Chén Tiān Hǎi first put away the jade slip and then caressed the blue gem.

With a somewhat nostalgic expression, he then looked at Sūn Èr Láng and said, "Little Friend, I'll give you this Transformation Dao Stone."

It wasn't until the Transformation Dao Stone fell into his hands that Sūn Èr Láng came back to his senses.

"Eh?"

Sūn Èr Láng was genuinely surprised. After Chén Tiān Hǎi had laid out the incredible aspects of the Transformation Dao Stone, he unexpectedly gifted the stone that had been lost in Yí Xíng's tomb for thousands of years to Sūn Èr Láng.

"Thank you, Senior!" However, Sūn Èr Láng wasn't foolish. Afraid of a change of heart, he promptly accepted the treasure.

Joyfully holding the stone and observing it for a while, Sūn Èr Láng's expression changed from amazement to embarrassment.

"Senior, this Transformation Dao Stone..."

"Why does it seem useless?"

Chén Tiān Hǎi explained, "To experience the mysteries of the Transformation Dao Stone, you need to use our sect's 'Transformation Dao Divine One' secret technique!"

Sūn Èr Láng became alert, "Senior, I already have a master. I can't join your Taiyan Sect..."

Chén Tiān Hǎi chuckled, "Little friend, you're overthinking it. I've given you the Transformation Dao Stone; why would I care about this secret technique?"

With a flick of his finger, Sūn Èr Láng, bathed in illusory blue light, suddenly felt the information about the 'Transformation Dao Divine One' added to his mind.

Activating the technique, the blue gem in Sūn Èr Láng's hand emitted radiant streams of light, absorbed into his body. In his sea of consciousness, a similarly shaped dazzling crystal slowly took form.

Suddenly, Sūn Èr Láng felt the world around him brighten.

In an instant, countless thoughts flashed through his mind. Memories from childhood to adulthood, even some nearly forgotten ones, all resurfaced.

Thinking about his previous doubts, why Chén Tiān Hǎi of Taiyan Sect regarded him so highly, Sūn Èr Láng, who had only vague guesses, now deduced several possibilities.

The favor from the Grand Qi Opening and the goodwill from the master towards the Taiyan Sect were beneficial for them.

Taiyan Sect could control certain aspects through the Transformation Dao Stone, constituting a part of a conspiracy...

Many possibilities were listed one after another.

Simultaneously, based on the information obtained from the outside world, he continuously adjusted his inferences.

"Is this the 'Transformation Dao Divine One'?"

After a long time, Sūn Èr Láng returned to his senses, exclaiming with admiration.

He couldn't help but look at the Transformation Dao Stone Mother before him.

Just a small fragment possessed such powerful divination ability. How powerful was the Transformation Dao Stone Mother?

"Senior, is gifting me the Transformation Dao Stone related to the 'simulation' you mentioned earlier?"

Gazing at the Transformation Dao Stone Mother, Sūn Èr Láng, as if enlightened, suddenly asked.

Chén Tiān Hǎi nodded mysteriously, "In addition to simulating the future of the Grand Qi Opening, within the Transformation Dao Stone Mother, there are many other fictitious worlds."

"It's both to fully utilize the stone's ability and to better correct the established reality."

"You can think of them as some form of rehearsal."

While Sūn Èr Láng pondered, Chén Tiān Hǎi continued, "These simulated worlds are mostly created based on the original materials of the Grand Qi Opening. So, you might encounter many seemingly plausible but fictional entities..."

"But rest assured, it's authentic enough to let you truly experience a complete life."

"Little friend, have you ever heard of this saying? Governing the world, talents from a single county are sufficient. Though this principle circulates among mortals, it is also applicable in our cultivation world. In the past, the mighty Xuantian Sect, which dominated the world, had only twelve cultivators close to the Xuantian King at its core."

"Xuantian Sect?" Sūn Èr Láng heard this term for the first time, showing some curiosity.

However, Chén Tiān Hǎi didn't elaborate, continuing his deduction, "In this world, talents are not lacking. What's missing is the space and opportunities for them to grow."

"In the simulated world of the Transformation Dao Stone, we have built such a stage. It allows characters like you to grow rapidly."

Given his young age, Sūn Èr Láng couldn't help but feel proud when he heard Chén Tiān Hǎi praising him. However, he soon frowned and asked, "How long does this simulation last? Won't it keep Master waiting for a long time?"

"One dream spans a thousand years, and a thousand years pass in an instant. Little friend, are you prepared?" Chén Tiān Hǎi suddenly shouted.

At the same time, a blue light halo bloomed on the Transformation Dao Stone Mother.

Within the halo, numerous different scenes from various worlds were faintly visible. A figure enveloped in blue light flew out from Sūn Èr Láng's sea of consciousness, heading straight for the light halo of the stone mother.

When Chén Tiān Hǎi saw where Sūn Èr Láng ended up, a hint of strangeness appeared on his face.

"The ancient Xuanhuang, a world where the heavenly tribulation has not occurred. Interesting..."

Chén Tiān Hǎi hadn't fully explained his previous words.

Yes, governing the world with talents from a single county is indeed sufficient.

However, it's just sufficient.

Although there are many talents in the world, there are always some who stand out. They may be temporarily obscured for various reasons, but given the opportunity, they can rise rapidly and overturn the course of destiny.

The simulated worlds of the Transformation Dao Stone, iterating through countless scenarios, intensively influence and alter the fate of the world whenever such characters appear.

"Countless futures have countless branches. The existence or disappearance of certain creatures doesn't affect these potential branches. They are insignificant individuals among the vast population."

"But some figures, due to their disappearance, can cause major upheavals in the future, even directly eliminating numerous possibilities. These individuals are the 'Focus Variables.'"

"The Transformation Dao Stone Mother has statistically analyzed many focus variables in the simulated worlds, summarizing an effective prediction method. Sūn Èr Láng possesses certain characteristics that fall under the category of focus variables."

Chén Tiān Hǎi's thoughts surged, and this was why he treated Sūn Èr Láng so kindly.

Since Taiyan Sect had been discovered, it was inevitable that they would soon be involved in the future variables as they "entered the world." Preparation was necessary.

His eyes narrowed, seemingly trying to see everything happening in Sūn Èr Láng's current world.

"As I expected, three years of seclusion, a rise to prominence in a single move, unstoppable once the momentum is established."

"Fortunately, judging by his actions, order and rationality are still intact."

"Not an 'Extreme Variable.'"

Giving Sūn Èr Láng a chance for simulation also provided Taiyan Sect with an opportunity to see Sūn Èr Láng's true character.

Chapter 1197: Overturning Heaven and Earth with a Single Thought

Chén Tiān Hǎi felt somewhat relieved.

"To be able to cultivate such a disciple, I believe that the mysterious Holy Emperor won't act in an entirely unpredictable manner."

"Extreme Variables" are a special type among the "Focus Variables."

Once they appear, they can cause a revolutionary impact on the current world.

In an instant, they can completely overturn the future worlds simulated by the Transformation Dao Stone Mother.

The Heavenly Law Ancestor from back then was considered an "Extreme Variable."

Chén Tiān Hǎi's memories seemed to return to the past.

In the main hall of Taiyan Sect,

"I have already given a reply to Dadao Sect. Just a Harmony Dao cultivator is not to be feared," said the former Taiyan Sect Master, Chén Tiān Hǎi's master, Xīng Jí Dào Rén, in a deep voice.

Chén Tiān Hǎi's expression became somewhat anxious, "How can we make such a hasty conclusion? I feel that this transmission of the law is somewhat inexplicable. Why not observe further?"

Xīng Jí Dào Rén was somewhat displeased, "The Transformation Dao Stone Mother has performed billions of simulations. What problems can there be?"

"Could it be that with so many Lifespan Realm cultivators working together, they still can't capture him?"

Chén Tiān Hǎi was momentarily speechless.

Between each major cultivation realm, the difference in strength is like a chasm, and the higher the realm, the more apparent this gap becomes.

A Golden Core cultivator might be able to kill a Nascent Soul cultivator, but to annihilate a Lifespan Realm...

It's rarely seen in the Xuanhuang Realm's ancient history.

Moreover, this operation to capture the transmission of the law was led by the Grandmaster of Dadao Sect himself.

It is said that six Lifespan Realm experts would jointly take action.

Grandmaster Fāng was extremely cautious in his actions, and even with such a vast difference between the two sides, he did not take it lightly.

He not only kept it strictly confidential but also only a few sect masters and some direct disciples within the Immortal Dao Ten Sects knew about this matter.

He even contacted Taiyan Sect, hoping to use the Transformation Dao Stone Mother to calculate the possible variables in this operation.

Such caution made Xīng Jí Dào Rén difficult to understand.

However, after all, he was the leader of Dadao Sect, and it wouldn't be appropriate to disrespect him. Xīng Jí Dào Rén still used the Transformation Dao Stone Mother to thoroughly simulate various possibilities.

The results of billions of simulations all concluded with the smooth capture of the transmission of the law.

Theoretically speaking, there was almost no possibility of failure for the operation of the Immortal Dao Ten Sects this time.

However, for some reason, Chén Tiān Hǎi still felt an inexplicable and lingering unease.

He had once disguised his identity and secretly approached to observe the transmission of the law immortal in the past.

Before the Immortal Dao Ten Sects paid attention.

The transmission of the law itself seemed to be a kind and compassionate old man.

For the sake of those in the world unable to cultivate, he opened up another unique path.

However, witnessing the fanaticism in the eyes of the new law cultivators surrounding the transmission of the law, Chén Tiān Hǎi felt a chilling fear in his heart.

What made him even more uneasy was that at that time, it seemed that the transmission of the law had sensed his secret observation and looked slightly in his direction.

A simple and calm gaze, but it felt like a nightmare, frequently appearing in Chén Tiān Hǎi's mind.

It took a long time for the negative emotions caused by that gaze to slowly fade away from Chén Tiān Hǎi.

But now, this suddenly discovered plan rekindled the nightmare.

As the first direct disciple of Taiyan Sect, Chén Tiān Hǎi, despite his young age, had already stepped half a foot into the Harmony Dao Realm. He refused to believe that an ordinary Harmony Dao cultivator could have such a terrifying influence on him.

Out of shame, Chén Tiān Hǎi did not explicitly tell his master about the anomalies happening to him. However, he repeatedly emphasized to his master the extraordinariness of the transmission of the law immortal.

But in the end, it didn't change his master's attitude.

After leaving his master's place, the anxiety in Chén Tiān Hǎi's heart grew stronger.

He suddenly had the idea of activating the Transformation Dao Stone Mother again to conduct another simulation.

Chén Tiān Hǎi was startled by his own thought.

The Transformation Dao Stone Mother, a treasure of Taiyan Sect, is the foundation of the sect. It concerns the path of all current and future Taiyan Sect cultivators. Only the Sect Master of Taiyan Sect is qualified to use it.

Even though Chén Tiān Hǎi is the first direct disciple, he can only observe from a distance and cannot approach it on his own.

Once the idea arises, it becomes difficult to calm down.

It even left Chén Tiān Hǎi somewhat restless.

Fortunately, he finally got an opportunity.

One of the Ten Sects, "Wú Dìng Yù," seemed to have some trouble and sent out a distress signal to the other Immortal Dao sects.

Top Sect, Tiān Jiàn, Yù Shòu, and other sects were busy planning to surround the transmission of the law, so they couldn't spare manpower.

Therefore, this matter was handed over to Xīng Jí Dào Rén to handle.

From Xīng Jí's departing expression, it was apparent that something significant had happened in Wú Dìng Yù.

The affairs of the sect were entrusted to Chén Tiān Hǎi and the various elders.

This gave Chén Tiān Hǎi an opportunity.

After a fierce internal struggle, Chén Tiān Hǎi ultimately couldn't suppress the movement within his heart.

In a situation where no one knew, he came to the Transformation Dao Stone Mother.

All the previous simulation records would be preserved. Chén Tiān Hǎi pulled up the results of the last simulation.

As expected, it was the same as what his master had said, and his master even held back some information.

He simulated it for a billion times, and the results were consistently identical.

However, for some reason, Chén Tiān Hǎi, who saw these simulation results with his own eyes, still felt a bit uneasy.

He activated the Transformation Dao Stone Mother again.

The azure light kept flashing, and endless possibilities continued to unfold.

...

"Uh." A groan interrupted Chén Tiān Hǎi's thoughts.

The connection with the Transformation Dao Stone Mother was cut off, and Sūn Èr Láng had returned from the simulation to reality.

His eyes tightly closed, as if still adapting.

His aura was undergoing significant changes at a visible speed, transforming from a sharp-edged young man into a master who had experienced countless trials in an instant.

"Thanks for the senior's help!"

After a long time, Sūn Èr Láng opened his eyes.

His gaze was tranquil and profound.

"What did Little Brother experience?" Chén Tiān Hǎi knowingly asked.

"In the era of the ancient top ten immortal sects, before the calamity struck, I was originally a common mortal. Through a fortuitous encounter, I witnessed two Golden Core cultivators fighting and perishing together. Gathering my courage, I collected the items from their bodies."

"After three years of effort, I finally opened the two Golden Core cultivators' storage rings. From then on, I officially embarked on the path of cultivation..." Sūn Èr Láng said calmly.

Chén Tiān Hǎi knew that although Sūn Èr Láng mentioned it casually, the process of opening the two storage rings in that simulated world was thrilling.

Friends of the two Golden Core cultivators came searching, looking for the whereabouts of the inheritance.

Although there was a treasure mountain, it could not be entered. Betting everything, exhausting all family wealth, he eventually obtained a rudimentary cultivation method. Stumbling along, he finally entered the Foundation Establishment Realm, allowing him to use the resources in the storage rings.

Sūn Èr Láng narrated his experiences in the simulated world, ending with reaching the pinnacle of the Harmony Dao and facing a hopeless breakthrough.

Chén Tiān Hǎi had long seen the other's experiences, but he still listened with relish.

"If it weren't for a slight deviation in my thoughts back then, perhaps the current Xuanhuang Realm would still be the same."

Chén Tiān Hǎi thought so in his heart.

(End of this chapter)