Chapter 691-695: Ruptured Boundary, Retaining the Mirage Scene (7.5k+ words)

The news of the appearance of the original strain of the Heavenly Spirit Flower in the Heavenly Spirit Province spread like a whirlwind throughout the entire Immortal Alliance.

All the cultivators who were just playing with and admiring the Heavenly Spirit Flowers in their hands suddenly found them tasteless.

"So, there really is an existence of the original strain in the world..."

With this thought, they abandoned the so-called top-grade and first-grade Heavenly Spirit Flowers, starting a frantic search for the original strain.

However...

To their surprise, after dozens of days had passed, even with the combined efforts of almost half of the Immortal Alliance, they still hadn't found the rumored existence of the Heavenly Spirit original strain.

This made them doubt the authenticity of the news of the appearance of the original strain.

But after rigorous questioning of the cultivators who witnessed it that day, they finally confirmed that the event was true!

The Heavenly Spirit Flower that appeared that day was undoubtedly a genuine original strain.

Now things became interesting.

It was known that the heavens and earth of the Heavenly Spirit Province had changed, and there were no more bloodless Heavenly Spirit Flowers in the world.

Moreover, the Heavenly Spirit Flower shown by the beautiful cultivator was not in the usual state. It seemed to be sealed within a thin piece of paper.

Ready to emerge.

Before the great battle in the Heavenly Spirit Province, that cultivator, through some means, preserved a seventeen-petal Heavenly Spirit Flower!

This could very well be the only original strain of the Heavenly Spirit Flower in the world!

It was not the kind that appears for a brief moment, but a true original strain that could exist for a long time, always available for viewing.

The implication of this...

The value of things lies in their rarity.

And there is only one in the world.

It's immeasurable.

People began frantically searching for the white-robed cultivator who appeared with the original strain of the Heavenly Spirit Flower that day.

But what puzzled them was that since that day, this person seemed to have evaporated from the mortal world and never appeared again. His past was also mysterious, as if he suddenly fell from the sky, and no one knew his origin or identity.

Even when Daoist cultivators used deduction techniques, they couldn't pry into his secrets.

So, there were various speculations.

Some said he was a spy from the Five Elders' Council. The Heavenly Spirit original strain was also fake, meant to disrupt and destroy the recently thriving market for Heavenly Spirit Flowers.

Others said this person might be a lone cultivator, usually hidden in a cave. His sudden appearance and disappearance were just to wait for the right time to sell.

Just as the outside world became increasingly curious about the mysterious Xu Bai.

Xu Bai had already returned to the Beastkind Realm.

With his personal luck combined with the small world's heavenly luck, he was like a world himself, resisting the divination techniques occasionally surging towards him.

"Young Master, rest assured, originally being in a small world weakens their perception of you in the outside world. With my and Lao Fang's joint efforts to conceal your fate..."

Liu San stroked his beard, confident, "As long as it's not the intervention of the Celestial Lord of Longevity, they will never be able to find their way here."

Xu Bai wasn't worried about this.

In addition to the defensive measures mentioned by Liu San, there was also the secret technique he used, "Concealing the Heavens with One Hand." Even the mysterious net could be deceived. Xu Bai believed that in today's Immortal Alliance, there should be no one who could deduce his existence.

Of course, if the Celestial Lord of Longevity personally visited for such a small matter.

Then he would acknowledge it. In any case, he was in the vortex millions of miles away, quite safe.

"Master, your trick of playing cat and mouse is quite brilliant. According to the feedback from those outside disciples, those guys are now anxious and scratching their heads. Many are willing to offer a high price just to see the legendary original strain of the Heavenly Spirit Flower."

Fang Zaiji admired Xu Bai somewhat and excitedly said, "Some cultivators even declared that they would be willing to exchange a genuine Daoist technique with you for the original strain. Tsk tsk..."

Xu Bai remained unchanged, calmly saying, "No hurry, let them wait a little longer."

Chapter 691: Ruptured Boundary, Retaining the Mirage Scene

"Master's words are wise," Fang Zaiji smiled knowingly.

"However, Master, the commotion you caused this time is a bit too much. I'm afraid that when I go out again, the few treasures I crafted for you may not be able to withstand the pressure," he suddenly frowned, expressing some concern.

"If three to five Daoists form an alliance to forcefully seize them, then your avatar, Master, is really in danger."

Xu Bai twitched his face.

"Don't worry, I have a plan. Mr. Fang, you should go and study the True Medicine Cauldron."

Fang Zaiji smiled and disappeared in a flicker.

"Lao San, I have something to entrust to you." After Fang Zaiji left, Xu Bai suddenly spoke to Liu San.

"Young Master, please instruct."

"For me, find this person." Xu Bai projected an image of Jiao Xiuyuan in the air.

"He has transformed into millions, and his avatars are spread all over the Xuanghuang Realm. In every city of each state, there is an avatar in charge in the Qianli Hall. Originally, I could directly contact him, but at the moment, both my main body and avatar are temporarily occupied."

"And you still don't have an Immortal Alliance identity, so you can't enter the Immortal Alliance cities. Therefore, I have to trouble you to search in the wilderness outside."

"You can focus on those ancient sect ruins; it shouldn't be difficult."

"After finding him, give him this item. Tell him that I have a business to discuss with him..."

Xu Bai gave careful instructions.

"Young Master, please rest assured."

With the order received, Liu San immediately left Changsheng Valley to find Jiao Xiuyuan's whereabouts.

Meanwhile, Xu Bai's attention was mainly focused on his main body.

In the Savage Abyss Province, within the great vortex.

"Friend, take a look, is that the temporal mirage scene you mentioned!"

Dongfang Yao pointed to the towering pillar of light rising from the vortex, extremely excited.

Although he had almost shouted at the top of his voice, in this violent storm, it was almost inaudible. Even the transmission of divine sense was affected by the distorted spiritual energy around.

During the months of studying Dao with Dongfang Yao, Li Fan found that something unusually special seemed to be brewing in the great vortex.

Dongfang Yao didn't feel anything strange, but Li Fan faintly sensed it.

Sure enough, on this day, as Dongfang Yao charged into the center of the vortex, refining his body with the black rifts, he suddenly fell into a daze.

Allowing the power of the rifts to tear several terrifying wounds on his body, blood flowed freely, but he remained motionless.

In the vortex, a towering mountain suddenly appeared.

The mountain was surrounded by a red snake.

Then, a dazzling white light emerged from the mountain peak.

Like the sharpest blade, it tore through space.

Bursting out, it reached the sky.

The heavens and earth trembled, and the mountain peak gradually disintegrated.

The red snake, amidst roars, was forced to retreat.

"A ruptured boundary, this is the real ruptured boundary..."

Dongfang Yao watched this spectacular scene, murmuring to himself in a trance.

Li Fan, on the other hand, looked serious.

"The temporal mirage scene, a rare occurrence in a hundred years. Yet, I encountered it so easily."

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 692: Desiring to Enter the White Mist

"Du'e Sect..."

"The lingering Yin spirits!" A cold light flashed in Li Fan's eyes.

If it happened occasionally, it could be considered a coincidence. But when it happened repeatedly, it couldn't be explained as mere luck.

It was almost certain that Li Fan, as mentioned by Jiao Xiuyuan, was related to being the so-called "Chosen One" by the Du'e Sect.

However, how the Du'e Sect, hidden in the dark like persistent flies, managed to detect and lock onto him was still unknown to Li Fan.

After all, in the ancient cultivation world, the Du'e Sect was an extremely mysterious existence. Not to mention thousands of years later.

"Every time the cycle resets, the Du'e Sect will undoubtedly be affected. So, from their perspective, I am just a cultivator with a mysterious background, hiding some secrets. Why are they always able to determine that I am their so-called Chosen One, able to help them through disasters?"

"Could it be that besides 'Huan Zhen,' there is something special about me? Or is it purely due to the mystical nature of the Du'e Sect's techniques, allowing them to foresee the future?"

Li Fan's thoughts were racing.

As for whether he could escape from the seemingly desperate Xuanghuang Realm and achieve longevity and freedom, Li Fan, with the extraordinary treasure "Huan Zhen," had absolute confidence.

Looking at it from another perspective, if there was indeed a savior destined to emerge in the Xuanghuang Realm, a person who could change its course of destruction, then "Li Fan," the only variable, was undoubtedly the most likely candidate.

"But if Wood had let me go back then, it was probably because he foresaw that I would commit boundless killings, bringing unimaginable disasters to the cultivators of the world."

"Saving the world and destroying it, both exist in my future."

...

Li Fan's contemplation was interrupted by an intensely bright white light.

Perhaps because the scenes recorded by the temporal mirage were too astonishing, they had even affected the real-time space.

Li Fan sensed that the originally turbulent spiritual energy around him resonated and trembled when the Du'e Sacred Beast Mountain emitted the boundary light.

"Not good! Friend Li, quickly retreat!"

Dongfang Yao, who was initially excited, suddenly changed his expression. His figure kept flickering as he retreated rapidly outside the vortex.

With a decent heart, he didn't forget to remind Li Fan, who was still standing there foolishly.

"What is this..."

Li Fan's body floated outward, but his eyes were fixated on the great vortex, including the vast sea around it, as if the spatial areas had been cut and separated into small regions.

Every black rift seemed to contain the menacing figure of a demonic beast.

Roaring and howling.

With bared teeth and claws, they tore through space.

Countless demonic beasts worked together to tear apart the Xuanghuang boundary.

Li Fan suddenly thought of the scene in the Meteoric Sword Sect's Meteor Forge, where they forged the boundary divine weapon.

The "Sword Embryo," containing different sword insights from various individuals, was thrown into the divine weapon furnace.

The boundary process of this Du'e Sacred Beast Mountain seemed to have a similar charm.

"Tsk tsk tsk, I don't know what happened back then. A thousand years have passed, and I can still feel the magnificent scene through my imagination." Dongfang Yao sighed.

The phenomenon of the white light column lasted for the time it took half an incense stick to burn.

In the end, it disappeared silently.

The strong contrast between before and after made it seem like the heavens and earth suddenly dimmed in Li Fan's eyes.

After the disappearance of the temporal mirage, the storm in the great vortex gradually calmed down. It seemed to have entered a period of tranquility after the intense battle, regaining strength.

"Unfortunately, the next time a rift appears, who knows when it will be." Dongfang Yao sighed with regret.

"But in my opinion, Friend Li gained something from this enlightenment." Li Fan smiled and said.

Dongfang Yao waved his hand, "Gaining insights from extraordinary scenes is always beneficial. After all, my insights are far from the true power of the boundary just now. Unfortunately, this place is not like the 'Mortal to Immortal Transformation Wall,' appearing at a fixed location and time. It's purely a matter of chance."

"When I was in front of the Transformation Wall, I pondered repeatedly and finally achieved Golden Core with the Four Laws. Unfortunately, my insight ability is limited, and I haven't been able to sense anything from it since then." Dongfang Yao's eyes flashed with a hint of nostalgia.

"The Mortal-to-Immortal Transformation Wall." Li Fan's heart stirred.

Similarly, within the Time Mirage, it recorded scenes of Mr. Bai's transition from an ordinary person to achieving godly cultivation.

Li Fan had long heard about it.

However, due to lingering doubts, he had refrained from going to witness it.

The core issue was whether Mr. Bai's portrayal as the "best person in the world" was true or false, and whether he still existed in the world.

Judging from Li Fan's repeated encounters in the Meteoric Immortal Realm, Mr. Bai had reached a level close to that of an immortal, participating in the creation of the world.

If such a figure still existed in some corner of the Xuanghuang Realm, then even if Li Fan saw him through the images recorded by the Transformation Wall, it might be the same as meeting him in person.

What would happen then was unclear.

Until Mr. Bai's details were clear, Li Fan only dared to connect with the "past" of Mr. Bai through the Meteoric Immortal Realm.

Or rather, make contact with the "past Mr. Bai."

After all, the extraordinary treasure "Huan Zhen" was something to fight over, even if a true immortal descended.

In the blink of an eye, Li Fan continued, "The 'Transformation Wall for Mortals to Immortals' is indeed extraordinary, a great spectacle in the Tianyun Province!"

Dongfang Yao took out a green upper garment and draped it over himself.

Suddenly recalling something, he looked a bit strange and said, "Although the Transformation Wall is formidable, in my opinion, the strangest thing in the Tianyun Province is a black dog!"

"A black dog?" Li Fan was first stunned, then the image of the Daoist Shi flashed in his mind. He remembered a piece of obscure news he had heard from the Oracle Child.

"Is Dongfang Friend talking about the worldly beauty who was heartless, turned his Dao partner into a Dao Foundation?" Dongfang Yao nodded repeatedly, "Yes, that's him. This guy's heinous actions angered the 'Void Profound Fairy,' and he was transformed into a black dog. Countless cultivators, in order to please the 'Void Profound Fairy,' brought various kinds of wild beasts to queue up and bully him."

"The scene..."

Dongfang Yao shivered, feeling a chill.

"However, actually, the true 'wonder' of this matter is not just that." Dongfang Yao suddenly changed the topic, lowering his voice.

"Oh? Could there be hidden details in this matter?" Li Fan was a bit surprised.

"Do you also know that I possess the bloodline of ancient mythical beasts? Perhaps because of this, as my physique became stronger, I discovered another wonderful use of the mythical beast bloodline."

"That is, communication with myriad beasts." Dongfang Yao said mysteriously.

"Before, when I passed by the Tianyun Province, I encountered the tragically ravaged worldly beauty. To others, it was the horrifying barking of dogs. But to me, I heard the worldly beauty continually pleading for justice."

"He said that it wasn't him who melted his Dao partner. Instead, his Dao partner, in order to be eternally united with him, voluntarily turned into a part of his Dao Foundation."

"Ah?" Li Fan didn't react for a moment.

Dongfang Yao shrugged, "At first, I didn't believe it either. But when the worldly beauty found out that I could understand him, he clung to me like a life-saving straw, crazily telling me this secret."

"He solemnly swore that everything was the idea of his abnormal Dao partner. He just slept and woke up to find his Dao partner gone, and an extra layer of Dao Foundation in his body."

"What's even more horrifying is that he said his Dao partner hadn't actually died. I don't know by what method, but she could still communicate with him and talk every day."

"He swore that everything was the idea of his abnormal Dao partner. He just slept and woke up to find his Dao partner gone, and an extra layer of Dao Foundation within himself."

"What's even more horrifying is that he said his Dao partner hasn't actually died. By some method unknown to him, she can still communicate with him every day."

"Suffering from an unjust accusation, enduring dual torment of the mind and body every day, Dusty Beauty has become completely insane."

"At that time, he begged me desperately to help him find relief. But well..."

Dongfang Yao looked helpless, "The Void Profound Fairy has countless admirers, and I dare not offend her. Even if she's wrong, I can't say it directly."

"So, I can only continue to endure Dusty Beauty's suffering."

Dongfang Yao sighed.

"Since then, I've known that women are such dreadful beings. It's better to avoid them."

"A man like Daoist Li, who is truly straightforward, suits my taste."

He glanced at Li Fan, nodding in satisfaction.

"Hehe..." Li Fan subtly moved a bit away from Dongfang Yao.

"This is the first time I've heard of this. It's truly interesting. The Void Profound Fairy..."

Li Fan had heard of this "Void Profound Fairy." He had even seen her in his previous life, during the commendation ceremony after the completion of the Tianxuan Locking Spirit Array.

Indeed, she was stunningly beautiful, living up to the title of a fairy.

What was even more important was her unique constitution. Paired with the extraordinary item "Yin-Yang Jade," she was a half-divine existence.

By practicing the method of Yin-Yang dual cultivation, the Yang half of the "Yin-Yang Jade" could be fused with the Dao partner. This process upgraded the Dao partner's foundational treasure, golden core, nascent soul, and even the transformation of life, raising them to an extraordinary level.

Enough to turn an ordinary person into an unparalleled genius in one leap.

It could be described as overturning fate.

Because of this, the "Void Profound Fairy" received enthusiastic pursuit from numerous young and outstanding cultivators.

She seemed to have a profound background as well. A foolish cultivator who had tried to force her had disappeared, leaving no trace of life or death.

Seeing Li Fan's subtle expression, Dongfang Yao couldn't help but advise, "Daoist Li, listen to me, it's true. Beautiful women are all disasters, and true brothers..."

"Haha, Brother Dongfang is right. Such women are not something I can provoke!" Li Fan laughed heartily, cutting him off.

"After the great vortex storm subsides, where will Daoist be heading next?" Li Fan asked again.

Upon hearing Li Fan's agreement with his words, Dongfang Yao immediately smiled with joy, "I have a friend named Huangfu Song. We share the same sentiments, like brothers. With the good affinity between you and me, I believe you'll get along well with him."

"Not long ago, I heard that he was going to the Abyss of Roaring Torrents, saying it's a rare opportunity to achieve great deeds. He wanted to invite me along. Since I have nothing to do recently and have also comprehended a new divine ability, I thought of joining in the fun."

"How about it, Brother Li, are you interested?" Dongfang Yao looked at Li Fan, with a hint of expectation in his eyes.

"The Abyss of Roaring Torrents? White mist, enchanting realm, and a chance for great deeds?" Li Fan squinted his eyes, connecting countless clues.

"Your wish is my command, I dare not refuse." Li Fan thought for a moment, not hesitating much, and agreed.

"Good!" Dongfang Yao was delighted.

"I'll inquire about his current whereabouts and go find him to meet up!"

After saying that, he took out a communication charm and inquired.

Not long after, Dongfang Yao put away the charm.

"Tianyu Province, let's go!"

Hearing this familiar place name, Li Fan smiled slightly. Then, he followed behind Dongfang Yao, flying towards the nearest teleportation array.

——

In the realm of beast species.

As Xu Bai was further comprehending the world's celestial phenomena, he suddenly opened his eyes.

Standing in the sky, he slightly parted his lips, as if uttering a phrase.

The entire world fell into silence abruptly.

After an instant, countless roars from different ancient beasts echoed in the world, surpassing each other in succession.

Compared to the dominant and tyrannical exotic beasts that previously ruled in the realm of beast species, these were the roars of the most formidable beings from ancient times within the beast clan.

Carrying the fierce and savage aura of primordial times, the exotic beasts in the realm of beast species, who were diligently at work, couldn't help but look up in the direction of the sound, trembling uncontrollably. Some knelt down on the spot.

In front of Xu Bai, black cracks appeared, resembling the time mirage realm after the great vortex, tearing apart the surrounding space.

The scene distorted, and even the world itself became somewhat unstable.

A figure suddenly appeared.

It was Fang Zaiji.

"Master, what's happening?"

He looked at Xu Bai in a somewhat panicked manner, asking repeatedly.

He thought there might be enemies forcibly breaking through space, trying to capture Xu Bai. Fang Zaiji was ready to intervene and rescue.

However, Xu Bai just closed his lips.

The roars of the myriad beasts instantly disappeared, and the world returned to silence.

The small spatial cracks no longer existed. Xu Bai glanced at Fang Zaiji and calmly said, "It's nothing. I just comprehended a divine ability."

"Uh..." Fang Zaiji looked at Xu Bai in surprise.

"The phenomenon just now, was it caused by the divine ability you comprehended? Is it real? The techniques of me and Liu San are unlikely to have such an effect?"

Fang Zaiji's face showed some doubt.

Xu Bai ignored him, savoring the process of using the divine ability he just displayed.

"Strange, the talent of this clone is a bit too extraordinary."

"Both the main body and the clone were observing the time mirage realm, but the main body only gained some insights. However, this clone..."

"While observing the shadows of the myriad beasts, it felt as if I were truly present, listening to the roars of the myriad beasts."

"Even those very blurry and unclear origin beasts, vivid images could emerge in my mind."

"And."

Xu Bai looked at his hands.

"Seeing through appearances and grasping the essence. Instantly comprehending and replicating the power of the mirage realm..."

"By refining Xu Ke's blood and adding the feathers of the mysterious bird, could it reach such a level?"

"Or is it because of Mr. Bai's influence?"

When this thought surfaced in Li Fan's mind, he initially found it somewhat absurd.

He merely incorporated Mr. Bai's temperament, and the similarities between the two were only superficial.

But...

What if it were true?

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 693: Observing Flowers and Realizing the Dao

"Just by resembling, one can obtain the wonders favored by heaven and earth..."

Li Fan suddenly remembered a story from the previous Great Xuan Dynasty.

In the last years of the previous dynasty, Emperor Zhenxu, who was originally a rare wise ruler, ascended the throne at the age of sixteen. He eradicated corrupt officials, pacified bandits, promoted irrigation projects, and abolished taxes, sweeping away the decline of the dynasty. He seemed like an ancient sage. For over twenty years, the country flourished, and the people lived in peace. The emperor was praised for his wise rule, and the ministers willingly served him, writing books to extol his virtuous deeds.

If he had continued like this, there might not have been the subsequent upheavals that led to the rise of a new emperor in the Great Xuan Dynasty.

However, everything took a sharp turn when Emperor Zhenxu was thirty-seven years old. The reason was the death of his beloved Empress Duanyu due to illness.

Upon hearing the tragic news, Emperor Zhenxu almost fainted on the spot. Subsequently, due to excessive grief, he neglected state affairs for several months. If it had stopped there, with the presence of court ministers, even if the emperor withdrew from public view, the Great Xuan Dynasty would not have fallen into chaos. However, perhaps due to the approaching end of the Zhen dynasty's luck, Emperor Zhenxu, when revisiting the place where he first met Empress Duanyu, encountered a woman who bore an extremely striking resemblance to her.

Not only did she resemble Empress Duanyu by eighty or ninety percent in appearance, but even her demeanor and tone were identical to the person from his dreams.

Moreover, she was even younger.

Emperor Zhenxu was shaken, believing it was destined. He immediately brought her back to the palace, bestowing her the title of Noble Consort, and was entangled with her day and night.

In order to please her, Emperor Zhenxu did many absurd things. He built palaces, constructed gardens in the palace, and even dug a small river connecting the imperial city to the outskirts for romantic encounters when the time was right. He ordered his subordinates to collect rare and exotic items from the common people for the Noble Consort's entertainment.

This caused chaos and unrest among the court and the people. Ministers who dared to advise him were either demoted or beheaded.

Even with this, relying on the accumulation of Emperor Zhenxu's early years, the Great Xuan Dynasty did not immediately collapse.

However, after the Noble Consort gave birth to a son, Emperor Zhenxu, for some reason, decided to depose the Crown Prince against the unanimous opposition of the court. Seeing Emperor Zhenxu's firm attitude, the Crown Prince naturally would not sit idly, gathering supporters and rebelling, leading to the "execution of the demonic concubine and cleansing of the emperor's side." Although this rebellion ultimately ended in failure, and the Crown Prince died in battle, the Great Xuan Dynasty suffered a severe blow.

Emperor Zhenxu, since then, never met with his ministers again, indulging only in pleasure.

As the situation deteriorated, in the fifty-sixth year of Emperor Zhenxu's life, the Forbidden Palace was breached by a rebel army. Emperor Zhenxu and the Noble Consort embraced and burned themselves to death.

When scholars in later generations studied this period of history, they couldn't help but find it very puzzling how Emperor Zhenxu, infatuated with women, led to the downfall of the country.

The only explanation was that Emperor Zhenxu's love for Empress Duanyu had reached an unimaginable level. So, after Empress Duanyu's death, when Emperor Zhenxu encountered a woman similar to her, he completely lost his sanity, even becoming somewhat insane. This led to the destruction of the flourishing empire in a single day.

There is nothing new in the world. Similar to this, if the clone Xu Bai could attract the favor of heaven and earth just by resembling Mr. Bai, either Mr. Bai is the incarnation of the heavenly dao, or he is crucial to the fate of the Great Xuan Realm.

So much so that the heavens and the earth are eagerly anticipating the appearance of the next "Mr. Bai" at every moment. It has reached a point where just looking alike is enough, and it comes with a special affinity for the laws of heaven and earth.

"Mr. Bai..." Various events related to him in the Fallen Immortal Realm flashed through Xu Bai's mind, and he remained silent.

After a long time, the thoughts temporarily settled, and he took out the seventeen-petaled Heaven Spirit Flower sealed with a special secret method.

Squinting his eyes, after observing the various scenes on the petals, a different feeling from the main body gradually emerged. It was as if he was overlooking the entire Heaven Spirit Province from a vast perspective, swiftly passing through mountains, rivers, living beings, changing weather, prosperity, and decline.

Facing the Heaven Spirit Flower was like truly seeing all the worldly events happening in the Heaven Spirit Province.

A trace of enlightenment quietly swept through Xu Bai's heart. However, like snowflakes entering the water, it disappeared in an instant, leaving him feeling lost.

"This feeling is similar to when I used the Canghai Pearl to observe the vast changes in the seas and lands. Eventually, I comprehended the 'Indiscriminate Killing Intent.'"

Chapter 693: Observing Flowers and Realizing the Dao

"Cultivators' magical techniques generally come from the natural world. It becomes easier when observing from the perspective of heaven and earth."

"However, merely recording the scenes of heaven and earth in a flower does not truly connect with heaven and earth. To gain something from it is not so easy; it requires strong insight. Just like the main body before, even though it was crafted by my own hands and carefully observed many times, I still felt it was merely an ornamental item."

"But this is not a problem with the flower; it's a problem with people."

"Hmph."

Making slight adjustments to the plans in his mind, while waiting for Liusan to return, Xubai continued to immerse himself in observing the flowers and realizing the Dao.

...

Tianyu Province.

After wasting quite some time, Li Fan and Dongfang Yao, who had finally arrived at Tianyu City, did not head to the Universal Academy where Li Fan received formation training in his previous life. Instead, they entered a private room in the Dao Discussion Tower in the city.

"Wait a moment, I've already informed Brother Huangfu, and he'll be here soon." Dongfang Yao sat cross-legged on the floor, casually tapping the ground with his fingers, and soon, a cup of spirit tea emerged.

"Damn, he's really stingy." Dongfang Yao rolled his eyes, drank the spirit tea in one gulp, and muttered under his breath.

Li Fan could be considered a frequent visitor to the Dao Discussion Tower and knew that Dongfang Yao was short of money, so he could only drink the complimentary spirit tea.

With a faint smile, Li Fan's divine sense connected with the control token in the room.

Before long, a dark green teapot appeared.

"Please, Brother Dongfang!" Li Fan smiled, gesturing.

"Brother, you're straightforward!" Dongfang Yao immediately smiled, pouring a cup and drinking it in one go.

"It's the finest 'Qianxiu Dao Discussion.' Li Xiong, you have great taste! The last time I drank this grade of spirit tea was when I came back from the 'Thousand Pages Book Forest' and couldn't help but celebrate!" Dongfang Yao praised.

Shaking his head and swaying, eyes slightly closed, he seemed to be comprehending something.

"You, Dongfang Yao, actually enjoying such good things as 'Qianxiu Dao Discussion,' and you didn't even invite me!" At this moment, a familiar voice rang out.

A plump cultivator, looking amiable, appeared in the room.

Wearing a feigned expression of slight anger, but with a hint of a smile at the corner of his mouth.

Eyes subtly swept over Li Fan without leaving any traces, Huangfu Song remained calm and looked at Dongfang Yao.

"Brother Huangfu, you've come at just the right time!" Dongfang Yao suddenly opened his eyes, poured a cup of spirit tea, and threw it over.

Chapter 694: Era of Great Exploration

Huangfu Song skillfully caught the teacup, raised it to drink.

"After drinking Li Xiong's tea, we're considered brothers from now on." Dongfang Yao nodded in satisfaction.

"Dongfang Xiong, let me introduce you. Who is this?" Huangfu Song looked at Li Fan, who was sitting properly beside them, and asked tentatively.

"He's Li Fan. I happened to meet him during my enlightenment in the Maw Region's great vortex. We hit it off instantly. I saw a great opportunity for merit, so I discussed with him and decided to come together." Dongfang Yao said proudly.

Huangfu Song's eyes flashed with a hint of brilliance, and he discreetly glanced at Li Fan again.

Li Fan remained calm, arching his hand, "I've heard of Brother Huangfu's great name. Nice to meet you!"

Huangfu Song didn't show particular enthusiasm, just nodded slightly as a sign of acknowledgment.

After some small talk, Dongfang Yao, being straightforward, got to the point.

"Huangfu, stop beating around the bush. What's this once-in-a-century merit opportunity you mentioned earlier? Spit it out!"

After contemplating for a moment, Huangfu Song slowly spoke, "Although this matter is still under confidentiality, it will be officially announced soon. Since both of you are insiders..."

"I won't hide it anymore."

"The Immortal Alliance is about to issue an order, encouraging all cultivators to explore deep into the White Mist. Not only will the Universal Truth Boat be provided for free, but all gains during the exploration process will belong to the individual. The Immortal Alliance will not interfere in any way."

"And, just by reporting the situation of the White Mist you explore, you can earn contributions, merits, and even rewards such as top-secret techniques."

...

Huangfu Song elaborated on the new policy that the Immortal Alliance would soon implement.

After his explanation, Dongfang Yao still looked puzzled.

"Did I hear it correctly? Deep within the White Mist? Apart from the White Mist barrier, is there something else there?"

Huangfu Song, somewhat helpless, glanced at Dongfang Yao and explained, "Within the White Mist, there are 'Enigmatic Realms.' Each Enigmatic Realm is vast, even larger than many Immortal Caves and small worlds."

"This is just the current understanding of the surface of the White Mist. According to the latest investigations, there are many hidden fissure passages within the White Mist, extremely mysterious, leading to unknown destinations."

"The higher-ups of the Immortal Alliance are determined to explore the White Mist this time, and the rewards are unprecedentedly generous. Therefore, many cultivators who know the news have already entered the White Mist. They are just waiting for the policy to be officially finalized so they can report and immediately receive merit rewards."

"I know the information is a bit late, but if you act quickly, you can still gain a lot. If it weren't for waiting for Brother Dongfang, I would have taken the initiative seven days ago."

After Huangfu Song finished speaking, he took a sip of tea and looked helplessly at Dongfang Yao.

"Good brother, you're considerate!" Dongfang Yao patted Huangfu's shoulder suddenly, causing his round belly to shake continuously.

"What are we waiting for? Why not set off immediately? I'm so broke I can't even afford to lift a pot. Those things needed to strengthen the physical body are ridiculously expensive!" He urged eagerly.

Huangfu Song gave Dongfang Yao a glance, "There are many dangers within the White Mist, and since we're already late, we shouldn't care about this short delay. We must be fully prepared. Let's go together. Even if we don't have any outstanding abilities, at least we won't drag the team behind."

As he spoke, his gaze intentionally or unintentionally swept over Li Fan.

Li Fan smiled faintly, "Since Brother Huangfu said so, then I won't hide it. Although my actual combat strength is slightly weaker, I do have some wealth. I can take care of preparing the Universal Truth Boat needed for this trip, as well as the treasures that can temporarily resist the Elemental Devouring White Mist."

Chapter 694: The Grand Exploration Era

"If I find that the exploration process becomes challenging at the Nascent Soul realm, I will voluntarily withdraw. I won't let my two brothers be in a difficult situation!"

...

Seeing Li Fan's sincerity, Huangfu Song was somewhat surprised, while Dongfang Yao was a bit dismissive, "What is Li Fan talking about? What's wrong with Nascent Soul cultivation? Aren't I also at the Nascent Soul realm? Brothers working together will overcome any difficulties. How can a mere Elemental Devouring White Mist pose a threat to us?"

Li Fan frowned and advised in return, "I know, Brother Dongfang, you have a strong physique, and even the cracks in the Great Vortex couldn't harm you. But deep within the White Mist is truly extraordinary. I heard Brother Shuo say that there's a realm in the White Mist called the 'Roaring Abyss.' Even he, with his formidable strength, has to be cautious; otherwise, there's a risk of falling. Brother Shuo possesses Divine Transformation combat power and a treasure bestowed by his mother for protection. Even he says it's dangerous, indicating the peril within the White Mist."

Huangfu Song and Dongfang Yao were stunned on the spot.

"Brother Shuo? Which Brother Shuo?"

Huangfu Song's expression changed slightly, "Could it be..."

Li Fan nodded slightly, "No need to hide it from you both. I have a close relationship with Shuo Feng and, at his invitation, have taken on the role of a guest of the Xuan family."

Upon hearing this, Dongfang Yao hadn't reacted yet.

Huangfu Song, on the other hand, stood up suddenly, looking at Li Fan with a shocked expression.

"Brother Li, is what you're saying true?"

Li Fan smiled, "I think the Immortal Alliance hasn't had any Nascent Soul cultivator daring to impersonate a guest of the Xuan family, right?"

With direct confirmation, Huangfu Song immediately changed his attitude.

"Oh my, I didn't expect this! Brother Li, why didn't you say it earlier? With your assistance, this exploration of the White Mist will surely be rewarding."

During the conversation filled with praise, Huangfu Song discreetly inquired about matters related to Shuo Feng from Li Fan.

After revealing some details, Huangfu Song was finally certain and became even more enthusiastic.

"With Brother Li Fan's significant help, the success rate of this expedition has increased. We shouldn't delay any longer; we need to prepare and set off as soon as possible," Huangfu Song said decisively.

"Prepare supplies; one day is enough," Li Fan said.

Dongfang Yao shrugged, indicating that he was ready anytime.

So, the three of them agreed to meet at the same place tomorrow.

After bidding farewell to the two, Li Fan came to the Heavenly Mystery Mirror, took out a communication talisman, and asked Shuo Feng about the Immortal Alliance's decision to explore the White Mist on a large scale.

Before long, Shuo Feng sent a reply.

"Oh, there seems to be such a thing. Why, are you interested? But there are too many strange things inside; it's not worth the risk. If you lack contribution points or something, I'll tell my family, and we'll increase your offering treatment. Don't go seeking excitement; it's not worth dying in there." Shuo Feng maintained his carefree tone.

After declining his kind offer, Li Fan inquired about information regarding the original species of the Heavenly Spirit Flower before ending the communication.

"Enigmatic Realms..."

Within the dense White Mist, indeed, it was eerie and filled with various dangers.

Just from Li Fan's observations in the previous life, there were the Roaring Abyss and the Chaotic Script Enigmatic Realm.

Even the Eternal Immortal Fortress guarding the Roaring Abyss was constructed using the severed palm of the Ancient Celestial, who fell from the White Mist.

This severed palm drifted out from the White Mist.

It was enough to show the dangers and mysteries within the White Mist.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 695: Unexpected Joy in Scattering Wealth

Li Fan speculated that besides the many remnants of the ancient immortal cultivation world within the white mist, there might also be the remains of other cultivation realms.

After all, no one knew how many worlds the Xuanhuang Realm had absorbed over the years to delay its fate of being devoured by the Immortal Ruins. Even the Xuanhuang Realm itself had undergone earth-shattering changes, expanding as if it had gained an extra layer. Not to mention the white mist barrier, which seemed to be a buffer zone where worlds possibly merged.

However, for Li Fan, while the white mist was full of dangers, its actual level of danger might not exceed that of the Xuanhuang Realm itself.

After all, the Xuanhuang Realm harbored too many hidden monsters. Since his reincarnation, Li Fan had encountered beings like Tianyi, Ruomu, and the mysterious Heavenly Controller. Each time, it was a narrow escape. Who knew how many powerful individuals were lurking in the shadows?

While the white mist had its dangers, most of them originated from the elemental-devouring white mist itself. Even if he encountered some elusive and terrifying entities, it wouldn't be on the level of the Xuanhuang Realm's powerhouses, preventing Li Fan from even using his "True Return" ability.

"Compared to the Xuanhuang Realm, the white mist seems like the corpse of a dead cultivation world. Living beings are often more frightening than the dead."

"Planning the latter part of the 'Mountain Sitting Art' with a clone like Xu Bai should not lead to any mistakes. I'll take this opportunity to explore the white mist and see what the Immortal Alliance is up to."

Li Fan gathered his thoughts and, based on his experiences from the previous life, purchased useful supplies from the Tianxuan Mirror.

For example: the "Eight Directions Tranquil Formation," which could temporarily ward off the assault of the elemental-devouring white mist and provide a crucial moment to catch one's breath.

Essential items like the "Black Death Talisman," capable of resisting the effects of the white mist's elemental-devouring, were also on the list.

And various elixirs and miraculous medicines for quickly replenishing internal spiritual energy.

Li Fan keenly noticed that the prices of these items had noticeably increased in recent times. Especially the "Black Death Talisman," whose price had doubled silently. It was evident that a considerable number of people already knew about the Immortal Alliance's plan to push cultivators to explore the white mist. They were taking advantage of this crucial moment to profit quietly.

Among all the supplies, the price increase for life-extending treasures was the most astonishing, with a general rise of three to four times. Items that extended one's lifespan were already rare and expensive.

After a cultivator used one type, they had to find other varieties, leading to a situation where these items were often in short supply and high demand.

Now, with the era of white mist exploration approaching and facing the threat of the elemental-devouring mist, these life-extending treasures were almost equivalent to life-saving essentials.

In the previous life, Li Fan was trapped in the white mist, breaking free forcibly. However, due to spending too much time in the mist, he returned to the Eternal Immortal Fortress aged. If he had possessed life-extending elixirs at that time, he could have avoided this situation.

Not all cultivators had the opportunity to keep coming back like Li Fan. To safeguard their own lives, it was only natural to prepare some life-saving items.

Looking at the more than one hundred life-extending elixirs prepared by Liu San, Li Fan, who had enough contribution points, naturally did not sell them. Instead, he planned to use them in critical situations.

"Unfortunately, at this time, Zhong Shentong is still not well-known. I've been inquiring for a long time but haven't found any trace of him. If I could learn his colorful divine light technique, it would be much more convenient. As for his incomplete 'Mystical Life and Death Technique,' well, we can think about completing it later when the opportunity arises."

Time passed in the blink of an eye.

The next day, Li Fan, Huangfu Song, and Dongfang Yao met again.

According to the agreement, Li Fan took out a large batch of purchased supplies and handed them over to them.

"Wow, brother, you're really generous!" Dongfang Yao immediately burst into laughter, happily accepting the filled storage ring.

Huangfu Song looked at the ring and couldn't help showing surprise on his face. "Brother Li has really spent a lot!"

"Since we agreed to explore the white mist together, we naturally have to be fully prepared. A little money is nothing compared to the lives of brothers," Li Fan waved his hand, seemingly indifferent.

"Oh, by the way, besides these, I also prepared this." Li Fan's expression became solemn. He took out two jade bottles and handed them over.

After Huangfu Song and the others took them, they opened them and saw three pills emitting a green light inside.

The tempting fragrance of the pills wafted to their noses, making them almost unable to resist swallowing the pills on the spot.

Both of them had a slight change in their expressions, and at the same time, they exclaimed, "Life-extending pills?"

Li Fan nodded slightly, lowered his voice, and said, "This is something I put a lot of effort into obtaining. The pills are called 'Eternal Life.' Each one can extend life by two hundred years, and the wonderful thing is that they can be taken repeatedly. Although the effect slowly weakens, it is said that within the first ten pills, it can still guarantee an additional hundred years of life."

Huangfu Song and Dongfang Yao immediately realized the value of these life-extending pills.

They immediately put away the jade bottles with great care, looking at Li Fan with emotion. "Brother Li..."

Li Fan smiled slightly and raised his hand to interrupt them.

Huangfu Song's expression changed unpredictably, but in the end, he gritted his teeth, as if making a certain determination.

"Brothers, wait a moment. I'll be right back."

Without waiting for Li Fan's reply, Huangfu Song hastily left the private room of the Dao Discussion Pavilion. For those unaware, it might seem like he was fleeing with the supplies.

However, both Dongfang Yao and Li Fan showed no signs of such thoughts. They patiently waited in the room with utmost calmness.

Dongfang Yao had known Huangfu Song for many years, understanding his character without any worries. However, Li Fan's calm demeanor in this situation made him admire him.

"Hehe, my judgment is indeed spot on. Brother, you are truly worthy of deep friendship!"

"In the white mist, the dangers are numerous. If one cannot trust their companions, why embark on the journey together?" Li Fan spoke calmly, displaying a certain level of grace.

However, after waiting for a long time, Huangfu Song did not return, and attempts to contact him with a communication charm went unanswered. It was as if he had vanished from the mortal realm.

This made Dongfang Yao start to have doubts in his heart.

But Li Fan remained indifferent and composed.

This attitude made Dongfang Yao click his tongue in admiration.

The reason Li Fan could remain so calm was not only because he was very familiar with Huangfu Song and knew that he wasn't a shortsighted person. More importantly...

To Huangfu and Dongfang, these seemingly "precious" supplies were of little value in Li Fan's eyes.

After waiting for another half day, it was deep into the night when Huangfu Song quietly returned.

"Since Brother Li is so candid, I'll also be straightforward."

"Brothers, take a look..."

Sealing the room's door and setting up formations to prevent eavesdropping, Huangfu Song took out a square and ancient-looking small mirror from his pocket and placed it in front of the two.

"What is this?" Dongfang Yao was puzzled.

Li Fan's eyes, however, narrowed as he stared intently at the mirror in Huangfu Song's hand.