A Record Of A Mortal's Journey To Immortality

by S.H.A aifu

A poor and ordinary boy from a village joins a minor sect in Jiang Hu and becomes an Unofficial Disciple by chance. How will Han Li, a commoner by birth, establish a foothold for himself in his sect? With his mediocre aptitude, how will he successfully traverse the path of cultivation and become an immortal? This is a story of an ordinary mortal who, against all odds, clashes with

44. 1415

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When Han Li saw this, he smirked. Without using any treasures, he simply flapped his wings, shooting away in a crystalline line. As he traveled, he blurred out of sight.

The large bald man in his firebird form opened his mouth without another thought and spat out a wave of purple flames, enveloping everything thirty meters in front of him.

If Han Li Han Li were in the nearby area, he would've been caught by the flames.

But largely against the large man's expectations, Han Li's target hadn't been the large man from the start. In a flash of white light, he appeared next to the huge two-headed bird.

Despite the huge bird's size, it was amazingly quick.

So as soon as Han Li appeared, the bird suddenly raised its wyrm head and spat a beam of icy light.

But before the light even struck his body, the nearby air crackled. Various chunks of ice began to slowly form.

The ice beam was incredibly cold, on par with Han Li's original Celestial Ice Flames, capable of freezing the air itself. In a blur, it quickly arrived before him.

Astonishment glinted from Han Li's eyes, but with a simple wave of his sleeve, he released a mist of grey light to meet the attack.

When the icy light entered it, it seemed to freeze.

In that moment of delay, rainbow light flashed from Han Li's sleeve and a palm of pure-white jade appeared.

He waved his hand out, summoning the brief appearance of five sinister skulls. Then, a rainbow flame flared up from his palm in a grand display.

Having cultivated the Hundred Meridian Refinement Mantra for so many years, Han Li was able to fully employ it with ease. He could bring forth the complete might of the Divine Essensefused Mountain and the Unbreakable Cinque Devils, and when combined with the strength of his body, their might increased several-fold, granting him strength an entire grade above his cultivation.

With a light ring, the beam of icy light broke through the Divine Essensefused Light and struck his white jade palm.

However, the rainbow flames simply began to revolve and the beam of light was immediately absorbed into it without resistance.

When the huge bird saw this, it raised its tiger head without any hesitation and released a transparent soundwave straight towards Han Li.

"Hmph!"

Han Li coldly snorted and golden light brightly shined from his body, wrapping himself with light before the soundwave struck.

A muffled rumbling sounded out and the golden light clashed against the sound wave, resulting in a chain of explosions.

However, Han Li paid no mind to these explosions. After several flashes, he broke through the soundwave and arrived in front of the huge bird with his fists raised.

But the huge bird was fierce and turned its body. With huge talons glinting with cold light, it swiped its claw through the air.

The sound of torn space loudly ripped, seemingly enveloping Han Li in the strike.

His expression sank and his fists flickered, one with grey light and the other with rainbow flames, as he blocked the attack.

Two huge booms shook the air.

The huge bird suddenly let out a piercing scream, but before the huge claw could close around Han Li, it disintegrated inch by inch underneath flashes of radiant light, even turning into a cloud of blood.

Afterwards, he blurred forward into the blood mist.

A vicious gaze appeared in the eyes of the two-headed bird. With no regard for its destroyed claw, it extended its two heads and widely opened its mouths to bite down on Han Li.

A fishy scent pervaded the air.

When the other Chi Rong beings finally realized what was happening, they released a barrage of attacks in furious surprise.

A wave of purple flames and countless fireballs shot forward, fusing together halfway to create a three-hundred-meter wide sea of scarlet flame.

The flame birds stirred and each entered the sea, vanishing inside it.

The sea of flames roiled and gathered into a huge wave over thirty meters tall, directly rushing towards Han Li.

However, Han Li wasn't about to give them the opportunity to perform a pincer attack. With his hands already raised, a golden three-headed six-armed picture appeared on his back. Two golden arms from the image on his back blurred suddenly before vanishing.

Meanwhile, two golden lights flashed near the bird, summoning two huge golden arms out of the air, each revealing a hand that was three-meters-wide and shimmering with golden light. They fiercely pounded down as they appeared.

With two huge thuds, the bird was caught off guard and was firmly smashed by both of the fists. The bird strumbled from the impact, unable to keep its balance.

Han Li then raised one of his hands against the oncoming wave of fire.

A huge black mountain suddenly appeared and spun in the air, creating a lofty barrier to meet up the oncoming fire wave.

The nearby air shook. The flame and grey light rolled against each other, finding themselves both at a deadlock.

The Divine Essensefused Light was able to turn any of the five elements into nothing, but even that had its limits. Against the flames of the many Chi Rong beings, it was only enough to block it.

However, that wasn't his objective to begin with.

He saw a golden opportunity and shook his shoulders, causing the remaining four arms of the picture on his back to vanish in the blink.

Meanwhile, the huge bird's surroundings blinked as four huge golden arms stretched into existence.

The four arms tore through space as they reached forward, each arm strangely twisting until they held both of the bird's necks in a stranglehold.

It was then that the huge bird sobered from being pounded by the two fists. It was greatly frightened by the sudden development and attempted to shake free with its huge bodies, attempting to flap its wings, but its giant body was still unable to budge in the slightest.

The two fists that pounded the bird earlier had unknowingly grabbed a hold of one of the bird's wings some time ago, forcing it still.

The huge bird was struck with terror. Before it could use any other abilities to escape, the four arms holding its two necks exerted an immense force.

As mighty and brutish the huge bird's body may be, against this huge force, the neck broke like wet paper and separated the heads from the body entirely.

Han Li then relaxed his incantation gesture, causing the golden figure on his back to vanish alongside with the four golden arms that had appeared.

Soon after, the headless bird and the heads began to fall through the air.

With a raised brow, he flicked his sleeve, releasing three silver fireballs to strike the body and the heads.

With several crackles, the silver flames roiled and the body turned to ash. The flames then condensed together in a bird and returned to Han Li.

"Run!" The bald man's voice shouted, aghast. When the bald man saw Han Li killed the huge bird which was equivalent in strength to himself, he quickly recovered from his rage.

With the sound of tearing air, nine fire birds shot out from the sea of flames towards the sky.

Having realized that they wouldn't prove Han Li's match and that they were chasing after the other Tian Peng beings to begin with, the large man prepared to withdraw.

"Tian Ming, isn't it too late to run?"

High in the sky, the voice of the older Tian Peng man sounded. Afterwards, silver lightning flashed and three large silver birds suddenly appeared. Having remained hidden this entire time, the Tian Peng beings finally took action, resulting in a grand ambush.

Countless arcs of lightning were released, instantly creating a huge net of lightning.

The bald man's firebird form let out a long screech. With him at the center, the fire birds suddenly condensed into a single firebird over a hundred meters tall.

With purple flames wrapping around the giant firebird, it unfolded its wings and charged through the lightning net.

The three huge birds were startled and didn't dare to block the way.

The purple firebird's flames surged quickly. And with several blurs, it pierced flew past the Devil Trapping Net and appeared three hundred meters away.

Such a fast speed was shocking.

When Han Li saw this, a light glinted from his eye as he floated in place. He had no intention of pursuing it.

The three silver birds hesitated for a moment and didn't pursue it either. They simply returned to human form in a silver flash and boom of thunder.

The older Tian Peng man looked at Han Li, who single-handedly repelled the Chi Rong beings. Not daring to slight him, he quickly saluted him from a distance and asked, "Many thanks for your help! We wouldn't have escaped calamity otherwise. However, your face is unfamiliar, Brother. Could it be you're a clansman that have remained in secluded cultivation in the sea?"

After some thought, Han Li calmly answered, "Even I don't truly understand if I am a Tian Peng being. My background is a bit peculiar as I've cultivated overseas until now. This is the first time I've come back to the Feng Yuan Continent. But from our appearance, we seem to be of the same race. Otherwise, I wouldn't have helped you repel the Chi Rong beings."

The older Tian Peng man named Feng Xiao smiled and said, "Hehe, there is no need for you to be so puzzled. You should be a clan descendant that was overlooked. In terms of appearance and aura, you are a Tian Peng being without a doubt! Furthermore, from your dense aura, you should be a direct descendant of our race. Otherwise, those spirit wasps wouldn't have sought out."

The dainty Tian Peng woman had a flash of understanding and said, "Brother's abilities must've come from overseas. They quite different from ours."

The younger man grinned and said, "Regardless of everything else, your Tian Peng aura is genuine. If not for our aura, we couldn't tell ourselves apart from the other branches that share our appearance."

When Han Li heard this, he felt relief. It seemed that refining the Kun Peng feather would aid him in concealing his identity. He hadn't taken action in vain. He then said, "Since you all are sure, it should be correct. But from what that Chi Rong man said, the Tian Rong Clan's circumstances aren't very good."

Feng Xiao sullenly said, "That's hard to say. It could just be provoking taunts, or something did happen to our clan. Even as we are comparatively weaker among the seventy-two branches of the Flying Spirit Tribe, they wouldn't dare to brazenly plunder our goods."

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Certain that Han Li was a Tian Peng being, Feng Xiao didn't hide his plans and calmly said, "Regardless if it is true, we'd best quickly return to our clan. The Chi Rong Clan was able to attack us once. They could try again. With your grand powers, I fear we'll need to rely on your strength!"

The other two looked at Han Li with expectant eyes.

Han Li's abilities had been truly powerful. If they had a clan member of such vast power, they didn't need to worry about the path ahead of them.

Han Li muttered to himself for a moment and answered, "Alright. Since I'm most likely a Tian Peng being, it is only natural for me to provide my fellow beings with some strength."

Since this would grant him a good opportunity to enter the Tian Rong clan, he definitely wouldn't refuse.

Feng Xiao repeatedly thanked him and said, "We'll have to trouble you! After we return, I will certainly report your merit to our elders."

The other two smiled in response.

When Han Li heard the word 'merit', he appeared indifferent. When he looked at the blue net surrounding them, he smiled and said, "Let's not linger here any longer. I'll get rid of the Devil Trapping Net."

With that said, Han Li pointed to the net in the distance and the silver firebird that was circling him immediately let out a melodic ring before shooting towards the net in a ball of flame.

A light pop sounded and the silver flame directly struck the blue net, immediately creating a person-sized hole.

Afterwards, silver flame quickly spread through the net.

The huge blue net was destroyed in the span of several breathes as it turned to ash underneath the grey flames.

Under the Spirit Engulfing Flames, the net burned like paper.

The three Tian Peng beings blankly stared at the scene.

When they saw this, they viewed Han Li's abilities with even greater importance.

"Alright, let's go!"

With that said, Han Li formed an incantation gesture and silver flames condensed into a ball, forming back into a firebird. It then vanished into his body without a trace.

The party of four then set off over the horizon.

For some unknown reason to the three Tian Peng beings, Han Li remained in human form, so the three hadn't transformed into their bird form either. They simply crossed the sky in balls of silver light.

Han Li was greatly interested in the Flying Spirit Tribe's ability to change forms, but he didn't rashly pursue the topic. He simply used the excuse of having always cultivated overseas to indirectly inquire about the Flying Spirit Tribe and the Tian Peng Clan.

These matters weren't a secret, so Feng Xiao and the two readily answered him.

As such, not only did Han Li come to understand much about the Flying Spirit Tribe and the Tian Peng Clan, but he also came to know that the younger two in the party were brother and sister, an elder brother named Bai Lei and a younger sister named Bai Ning.

Of course, the three Tiang Penb beings also asked Han Li a few questions, but Han Li always answered that he rarely encountered others because of his dedicated and secluded cultivation.

Seeing that Han Li was unwilling to divulge this information, Feng Xiao and the others were unwilling to pursue the topic.

To them, it was enough that Han Li was a Tian Peng being.

Afterwards, Feng Xiao brought Han Li across a land of hills, then flying across grasslands and several forests, before arriving at an endless mountain range.

This had taken place over the span of a month.

During this time, they hadn't encountered any more Chi Rong beings, but they did come across many low-grade Tian Peng beings.

However, it was a pity that these members seemed ignorant of any internal clan happenings.

As such, Feng Xiao and the two felt somewhat relieved.

It seemed that the Chi Rong being's words were false. Even if the higher-echelon of the Tian Peng Race sealed off this information, that meant they could preserve order over their clan.

Once they entered the mountain range, they began encountering Tian Peng beings in far greater number.

There were those flying in both their bird and human forms.

Han Li took note that although the shape and style of their wings were completely the same, the color would often be different.

Most Tian Peng beings had azure and white wings while others would have silver wings like the three in his party.

There were even those with gold and black wings. However, these Tian Peng beings were very rare. He only saw two of each on their journey.

Those with the three majority colors didn't have anything special about them, but those with the two rarer colors were entirely different.

Despite the lower cultivation of the golden-winged Tian Peng being, Feng Xiao and the other two appeared very respectful and took the initiative to greet them. As for the two black-winged beings, the three wore stiff expressions. They simply ignored them as they flew past.

The two black-winged beings also had lesser cultivation to the party.

Han Li took notice of this and found it strange. But from his experience, this likely had something to do with a taboo in the clan. It wasn't something that he could carelessly inquire about.

As a result, three days after he entered the mountain range, they eventually came across a Tian Peng patrol squad.

The patrol consisted of about thirty members and flew forward to meet them. They all wore white bone armor and held a silver long spear. From their aura, they appeared to be at Foundation Establishment and Core Formation stage.

But in case of a patrol squad, they could be considered an elite group.

The middle-aged man in charge quickly saluted with a smile as soon as he spotted Feng Xiao.

"Greetings Spirit Feng and Lords Bai. Under the elders' command, you three are to report to the Myriad Peng Pavilion as soon as you return. Yi! Who is this lord?" As soon as this was said, he looked at Han Li with an odd expression.

Feng Xiao's expression changed when he heard this. He then promptly introduced Han Li, "This is Brother Han. He's cultivated overseas and has returned to the clan. Brother Han, no need to feel awkward. We'll introduce you to the elders. You should take a rest at the holy mountain first. Given your abilities, the elders will definitely see you."

Han Li indifferently replied, "It's nothing. Since this is my first time back in the clan, I plan on taking a look alone. Brother Feng should hurry on."

After a moment of thought, Feng Xiao gave a wooden plate over to Han Li. "Our Holy City is majestic. I fear you'll have to spend much time to become familiar with it. Here is my command token. Apart from a few restricted areas, you'll be able to take a look at the rest of the city without anyone blocking you." He turned around with a sullen expression and commanded the middle-aged Tiang Peng being, "Send someone to personally guide Brother Han. He is an honored guest."

"As you bid," Feng Xiao clearly held a high position in the clan from the Core Formation-grade patrol leader's response.

"Brother Feng, you're quite considerate," Han Li said with a smile.

Feng Xiao regretfully replied, "How? In truth, this is actually quite lacking. When the time comes, I'll personally guide you through the holy city."

Soon after, the three in his party saluted Han Li and turned into large silver birds before shooting off.

As soon as Feng Xiao flew off, the middle-aged Tian Peng being waved his hand at his subordinates and pointed at a nineteen-year-old man, commanding, "Hua Yu, bring this lord to the lodge. You must properly attend to him!"

The man with a scholarly appearance immediately bowed and agreed.

Soon after, the middle-aged man uttered a few words and bowed to Han Li. The rest of them then continued the patrol.

Under the guidance of the young man Hua Yu, they headed deeper into the mountain range.

The young man spoke to Han Li with the utmost respect and didn't speak unless answering Han Li's questions.

But as a meager Foundation Establishment-grade being, he didn't know many important matters. He could only give Han Li curt responses.

After following this person for several hours, they arrived in front of a dozen small mountains lined up in a row.

These small mountains had black clouds covering them and sparked with lightning. They continuously boomed and were difficult to see through.

Han Li narrowed his eyes at the sight.

With his exceptional attainments in restrictions, he promptly saw through the dark clouds. They were clearly a formidable illusion restriction.

As expected, Hua Yu brought Han Li up to one of the small mountains. He then unfolded his wings to reveal white feathers and flew into a space inside the small mountain.

A muffled bang sounded.

A small mountain twisted as if it were only an illusion in the water. With several shakes, the small mountain disappeared with a ripple, only to reveal a huge passage of fog.

The youth flew in without any hesitation.

Han Li raised his brow but followed after him in an azure streak.

After flying for a kilometer, his surroundings lit up around him.

He saw a giant city that seemingly had no end.

The city was carved out of mountains and had city walls constructed from huge white bricks. The city walls only appeared to be sixty-meters in length, but they were surrounded by giant verdant mountains.

The walls had no gate, but they had a dense white barrier covering them. There were over a dozen places in the wall that had giant straight pillars erected. The pillars shined rainbow and emitted a faint light.

As of current, there were many Tian Peng beings that were flying through the gap in the pillars to enter the city.

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The Tian Peng youth Hua Yu waited for Han Li to take in the huge city and said, "Sir, please follow me!"

Han Li nodded and unfolded the wings on his back. Then he followed the youth to the closest pillar.

On the way, the youth took the initiative to explain, "My lord should be careful not to stray far from the heavenly pillars. The gaps in the city barrier only span a hundred fifty kilometers around the pillars. The city's Tian Peng restrictions are famous among the seventy-two races of the Flying Spirit Tribe. With these restrictions alone, we can withstand enemies that outnumber us several-fold. Since ancient times, the city restrictions have allowed us to escape extermination time and again."

The youth spoke with a tone of pride.

Although Han Li didn't examine the city's restrictions, the fearsome spiritual pressure of the barrier made him feel the youth's words were true.

After a blue light flashed wildly from Han Li's eyes, he began to notice a few remarkable areas.

Deep in the glaring white light above them, he could faintly see floating silver and azure threads of light.

They appeared exceptionally thin, but most of the fearsome spiritual power the barrier was emitting seemed to be coming from these threads.

Han Li took several deep looks at them before following the youth past the side of a huge pillar.

A short moment later, the two appeared inside the huge city.

At a glance, the various buildings in the city greatly differed from human buildings.

The city buildings were all in the shape of cylinders with conical roofs. Their heights all varied with the tallest of them reaching over three hundred meters in height while small ones were only ten meters tall. However, the reach of the buildings had several semicircle arced doors and windows.

What particularly surprised Han Li was that nearly half of the buildings were constructed out of mountain cliffs. There were even caves built out of steep mountain walls that resembled a beehive.

The youth respectfully said, "Sir, the honored guest lodges are spread throughout various areas of the city. Would you like to stay at the closest one? It should be empty."

"It makes no difference. Let's do as you say," Han Li answered indifferently.

"Yes," the youth uttered a word of acknowledgment and led Han Li at a low altitude, allowing him to take on the many sights in the city. They also brushed past many winged men and women.

Two hours later, they arrived at a large group of buildings and landed on a platform nearby.

The platform was connected to a circular three-story building.

When the two dropped down, two young women with white wings rushed out and saluted them.

"So it was Big Brother Hua Yu. Will this lord be staying at the honored guest lodge?"

When Hua Yu recognized the maid, he solemnly said, "Bai Cui, this is Lord Han. He is an honored guest of Spirit Feng Xiao. Attend to him properly."

A trace of astonishment appeared on her dainty face and she respectfully answered, "A guest of Spirit Feng Xiao? I will definitely treat this lord well!"

Han Li took a glance at the young woman and noticed that her weak aura was Qi Condensation-grade. He simply nodded and walked into the building.

The young woman lowered her head and closely followed after him.

Hua Yu didn't dare to enter and simply waited outside for the time being.

A moment later, Han Li's voice sounded from inside, "This place is to my lacking. You may leave."

The youth felt some relief and uttered a word of farewell before flying off.

On the third floor of the building, Han Li was standing behind a semicircle window and narrowed his eyes as he watched the youth slowly depart. The maid named Bai Cui was standing ten meters behind him in a helpless manner.

Without turning his head, Han Li uttered, "How many people are there in the holy city?"

After a pause of surprise, the woman hastily answered, "The holy city is extremely large. Although there haven't been detailed accounts, there are at least forty million people."

"Forty million? That few?" Han Li uttered with a tone of doubt.

The woman hastily explained, "Only those that can cultivate to the point they can take spirit form can enter the city. The clansmen that have lesser cultivation and can't transform don't have the qualifications to enter. Although we are one of the weaker branches of the Flying Spirit Tribe, we still total over a billion in number."

"So it was like that!" Han Li said with a tone of realization.

She stole a glance at Han Li and hesitated for a moment before asking, "My lord, is this your first time in the holy city?"

"Are there many honored guests like me that have entered the holy city for the first time?" Han Li indifferently asked.

The woman carefully explained, "My lord must be joking. Very few people check into the honored guest lodge in the first place, and If they aren't outer tribesmen that checked in for the first time, they are outer tribesmen that have come to the holy city on business."

"There is nothing to be surprised about. This is my first time returning to the clan. I've always cultivated overseas," Han Li calmly said. He then asked, "Are there any maps of the holy city on sale? If there is, tell me where and I'll buy one."

The maid respectfully said, "There is no need for my lord to head outside and buy a map. There is a particular map that is prepared for the honored guests that reside in the lodge. Its detail is far beyond what is sold."

Han Li felt surprised, but he promptly commanded, "Oh? That is very good. Go ahead and give me one."

"Yes, my lord." The maid took two steps back and swiftly wend downstairs.

Han Li stood in his original place by the window and began to ponder about his plans moving forward.

He wanted to infiltrate the Tian Peng Race so that he could acquire the rare materials that the Flying Spirit Tribe had. As for their treasures and tools, Han Li hadn't given them much thought. Although he only saw a battle involving the Flying Spirit Tribe, they didn't seem to rely on treasures and tools too much in combat. It was unknown if they were skilled in tool refinement, or if the high-grade existences in the Flying Spirit Tribe didn't draw assistance on common tools. The grand treasures like the Devil Trapping Net and the Fire Dragon Pearl only seemed to have an auxiliary nature. However, these still didn't catch much of his interest. So long as he could acquire some useful materials, the trip here would've been worth it.

As for the quarrel between the Tian Peng and the other branches of the Flying Spirit Tribe, he had no interest in involving himself.

While Han Li mulled over these thoughts, the maid returned to the third floor with an emerald-green bamboo tube that was only several inches long. Despite its size, a luster glinted from its surface.

Feeling somewhat shocked, Han Li promptly reached out to the tube that was offered to him.

In a gust of wind, a green streak shot out and arrived in his hand.

Afterwards, he waved his arm at her and she promptly descended after a swift salute.

Alone, Han Li fiddled with the bamboo tube in his hand with great interest. He then sank his spiritual sense into it and saw a huge man clearly etched on the interior of the tube.

The tube was mostly similar to a jade slip, but it was still quite peculiar to produce something similar to a jade slip with refined bamboo. It appeared the Flying Spirit Tribe wasn't lacking in tool refinement and had their own uniqueness.

In any case, Han Li's spiritual sense quickly focused on the tube's interior and concentrated on the image of the map.

In the time it took to finish a meal, he let out a sigh and withdrew his spiritual sense from the tube entirely before wearing a pensive expression.

The holy city was a bit smaller than he expected. It was comparable to a human city that housed a hundred million people. In any case, the city was still astonishingly large. It would take most of a day to fly from one end of the city to another.

Han Li wasn't very interested in buildings apart from the largest trading hall in the city.

The hall was constructed on a huge mountain at the side of the city. The mountain was where people traded items. It was about the same as a human or demon market.

Apart from this building, Han Li was also curious in a place called the Spirit Transmit Hall. It was where the Tian Peng Hall specialized in supplying a few high-grade cultivation arts to their clansmen.

The map also marked a few forbidden areas. Han Li took note of them and had no interest in pursuing them further.

He then closed his eyes and committed various parts of the map to memory. After going through the information once more, he unfolded his wings and wrapped himself in azure light. He then silently flew out the window directly towards the large trade hall.

The Tian Peng Race wasn't in a stable situation.

He was unwilling to stay in this place for more than half a month. It'd be best if he gathered the materials he needed and left as soon as he could to save himself from being involved in anything troublesome.

However, Han Li didn't wish to attract too much attention, so he flew at a slower speed that matched other Tian Peng beings in the city.

Because the trading hall was located at the edge of the city, Han Li only traveled halfway in a quarter hour. At that moment, he spotted a huge tower not far from his front.

It was over two kilometers tall and it wasn't a commonly seen cylinder. It appeared to be in the shape of an octagon with each side appearing flat and smooth apart from a few particular talisman designs on each side.

These designs emitted a faint black Qi that gained Han Li and familiar feeling. The top of the tower had several three-meter-tall crystals that emitted seven-colored light that covered the tower.

The black Qi was trapped in the rainbow light barrier, preventing it from escaping.

Han Li stroked his chin in surprise.

If he remembered correctly, the tower should be a forbidden area in the city. It was the so-called Spiritseal Tower and was given no description.

There wasn't a single Tian Peng being that dared to fly three hundred meters within range of the tower.

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"Black Infernal Mist", a familiar thought flashed through Han Li's mind.

The black mist that the stone tower emitted was the strange mist that enveloped half of the peninsula he stayed at.

However, the mist from the tower was extremely thin as if it were being strictly controlled.

Han Li felt somewhat alarmed, but since this was a restricted area of the Tian Peng Race, he wasn't about to provoke anything.

As everyone else did, he flew around the tower.

But as Han Li brushed past the tower, he felt an aura from the tower surge, causing his body to quiver as a cold sensation covered his back.

This is...

Han Li stopped and turned to stare at the huge tower.

He simply saw the huge tower continue to emit Black Infernal Mist. At an unknown time, the mist had become denser with the tower's talisman marks occasionally flickering with rainbow light. It wasn't able to completely block the black Qi from rushing it.

Fortunately, the rainbow barrier emitted from the top of the tower completely blocked the black Qi from leaving the vicinity of the tower. But a short moment later, the black Qi caused the seven-colored light barrier to tremble violently as if it could collapse at any moment.

When the nearby Tian Peng beings saw this, they were all dumbstruck and stopped in shock. They all stared at the strange occurrence occurring at the spirit tower.

Han Li then sensed his wings tremble and turned burning hot, creating a scalding pain on his back.

Han Li's expression vastly changed.

At that moment, an incredibly high-pitched shriek whistled from the tower. When the nearby Tian Peng beings heard this, they began to close their eyes and fall from the sky.

Although Han Li wasn't as negatively affected, he still felt his spiritual sense become dazed as his burning hot wings immediately lost effect, causing his body to sway.

Fortunately, he could still fly without any reliance on the Thunderstorm Wings. His body promptly flashed with azure light and he steadied himself. Then he looked at the huge tower with horror.

A huge explosion boomed and the crystals on the top of the tower brightly shined, causing the rainbow light barrier to shine as well. At that same moment, overlapping cryptic chants sounded out from the tower as if over a hundred people were chanting a similar incantation simultaneously.

The Tian Peng beings that originally fell then glowed with spiritual light, floating up in the air as a layer of seven-colored light surrounded them.

However, the tower released another piercing shriek and the dense black Qi inside began to roil, forming a kilometer tall huge bird phantom. The hollow figure appeared faintly black. It unfolded its wings to cover the top of the half of the tower and let out a long shriek, causing the black mist to surge several times in size. The surrounding rainbow barrier began to violently warp, exerting a huge pressure.

At that moment, the other Tian Peng beings covered in rainbow light began to shake but otherwise appeared fine. In their fear, however, they began to scatter in every direction.

Han Li originally thought to immediately fly away, but as soon as the huge black bird phantom appeared, his wings trembled. Suddenly, a huge azure bird phantom appeared from a tremble of his wings. It raised its head and cawed in response to the black bird.

Meanwhile, the nearby air became tense and he felt his body grow heavy, suddenly incapable of movement.

In his fright, Han Li emitted brilliant golden light from his body, exerting immense power in his limbs in an attempt to break free. But what immediately caused his heart to sink was in spite of his body's immense force, he felt the air surrounding him had become as dense as metal. He wasn't able to even move his finger.

Han Li's thoughts quickly churned. Just as he thought of using a true devil projection to break free, the incantations coming from the tower changed and became far more clear. The incantation also faintly sounded with booming wind and thunder. Soon after, the strange talisman characters began to appear in the air near the tower and began to float in the black bird's direction.

As this went on, the huge crystals on the top of the tower ruptured.

A ring of seven-colored suns slowly floated into the air, releasing a brilliant light that covered the black bird phantom.

With the brilliant seven-colored light and the talisman characters restricting the black bird phantom, the phantom could only shriek as it helplessly dispersed.

To the side, the huge azure bird phantom also vanished.

Han Li felt relief at having regained control of his body, but he felt quite bewildered.

Apart from the difference in size and color, the shape from the azure bird phantom and the black hollow phantom appeared exactly the same, like a legendary Kun Peng. Could it be a Kun Peng was sealed in the tower?

As Han Li pondered with shock, he immediately thought to flee from the scene. But when he swept his sights around him, he wryly laughed and decided to stay still.

This was because there were a dozen balls of light that had emerged from the huge tower. In a few flashes, they arrived a hundred meters away from him.

At this distance, he could clearly see Tian Peng beings through the remaining lights. If he fled now, he would be marking himself as guilty.

As he pondered, he decided to wait and see what they would say.

He quickly swept his sights past the lights and found two late-Deity Transformation-grade beings inside of them. The others were only early- and mid-stage beings. Feeling a bit of dread, Han Li didn't dare to provoke them and remained still in the air.

With several gusts of wind, the dozen beings unfolded their wings and arrived before Han Li in the blink of an eye, surrounding and staring at him.

Of the two old men in charge, one of them had a pair of white wings, while the other had wings that were faintly gold.

One of them also had a kindly face while the other appeared stern, but like all the others, they were firmly staring at Han Li with an odd look.

Although Han Li didn't truly fear the Tian Peng beings, he felt somewhat apprehensive at this current situation. He forced a smile and asked, "May I ask why you've surrounded me?"

Greatly against his expectations, the white-winged old man respectfully asked, "Brother, what is your esteemed name? Your face is quite unfamiliar. Are you kin that has recently entered the holy city?"

With a few quick thoughts, Han Li answered, "My surname is Han. I've cultivated overseas and have only entered the city today."

Seeing that the Tian Peng beings didn't reveal any hostile intentions, he decided to give an answer.

"You're from overseas? And you only entered the city today?" Han Li's answer greatly shocked the old men, but they soon exchanged a glance and wore an expression of joy.

The stern old man solemnly said, "Good, very good! Regardless of where Brother Han came from, your Tian Peng Qi is quite abundant to provoke the Kung Peng spirit in the tower. You could receive the title of Holy Disciple and inherit the Kun Peng True Blood."

"The Tian Peng True Blood!" Han Li was shocked.

If it was before, Han Li wouldn't have understood what they meant, but with the True Dragon and Heavenly Phoenix True Blood in his bracelet, he realized how rare this item was.

Han Li was startled that such fortune had appeared before him.

But with another thought, Han Li felt lacking in confidence.

He wasn't truly a Tian Peng being. How could he become their holy disciple? Under closer inspection, his disguise would be revealed. He wouldn't inherit any true blood, but would be provoking the hatred and ire of countless Tian Peng beings.

Han Li dryly chuckled and shook his head, "You've made a mistake. I come from an ordinary background. How would I have the qualifications to inherit the true blood? It wasn't me who provoked the scene at the tower."

The gold-winged old man seemed to ignore Han Li's words and smiled, saying, "There is no need for Brother Han to shirk this away. A true spirit projection had appeared from your body. Those of us from the tower had clearly seen it. We weren't mistaken. Brother Han must see the elders. Being able to become a holy disciple is a matter of the utmost importance."

Han Li inwardly cursed and looked around. He saw the Tian Peng beings looking at him with excitement and determination.

"I truly am not any holy disciple. It's fine if you don't believe me. However, I have important matters to attend to, so I must bid farewell." Han Li resolved himself and quickly uttered a few words before vanishing in a blur.

He flapped his wings, wanting to use his abilities to fly a distance away, but at that moment, he heard a woman's voice.

"Outsider, wait! Do you truly plan to leave? If you do, hand over your wings to us." The voice wasn't loud but soft and sweet. When Han Li heard it, he felt as if his spiritual sense shook with astonishing thunder and his face turned unsightly.

As soon as those words were uttered, a nearby space fluctuated and a slender figure silently appeared ten meters above him. It was a white-robed woman with golden wings.

Han Li stared at her and felt his blood run cold.

She had an ordinary appearance, but a glistening light was roaming across her body. From her aura, he felt that her cultivation was unfathomably deep. She was a mid-stage Body Integration-grade presence.

Han Li widely opened his eyes.

"We pay our respects to the grand elder!" The Deity Transformation-grade Tian Peng beings respectfully saluted the young woman as soon as she appeared.

This woman was actually the Tian Peng Race's grand elder.

Han Li felt his mouth dry up.

The woman calmly commanded, "Let me deal with this person. You should return to the tower and strengthen the seal, pacifying the Holy Kun Peng Spirit in turn."

"As you command!" As a clear display of their respect, they immediately followed their orders and returned.

The young woman then turned her sights on Han Li.

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Chapter 1419: Grand Elder

A bright glint shined from the young woman's eyes and she casually said, "This isn't the place to talk. Follow me." She then turned around and slowly flew off.

Han Li's expression wavered for a moment, but he decided to honestly follow her.

Facing a fearsome existence like a mid-Body Integration stage being and finding him in the holy city of a foreign race, Han Li didn't have any opportunity to escape. And when she hadn't turned hostile, he could only comply with her words.

The young woman appeared calm like a gentle wind as if she didn't possess an ounce of anger, but she flew at an immense speed.

Han Li had to use a majority of his strength to follow her. He couldn't help but feel overwhelmed as he forcefully stifled his wandering thoughts.

After flying for the time it took to finish a meal, the young woman brought Han Li to a solitary cylindrical building that was a hundred meters tall.

"I pay my respects to the grand elder." Two young dainty Tian Peng women walked out from the entrance and wore respectful faces.

The young gold-winged woman nodded and walked inside.

Han Li closely followed after her into the building, discovering that the interior was more simple than he had expected.

Apart from a stone table and a few stone chairs, there was nothing else.

The young woman waved her hand and the two maids withdrew. Then, she took a seat and faintly moved her lips, uttering, "Sit down. I have questions to ask."

"How could I take a seat in front of Senior? I will listen to you with complete attention," Han Li calmly said.

"Do as you wish," the woman indifferently replied.

Han Li then remained standing stiff and straight.

After a moment of thought, she asked, "Are you a human cultivator?"

Startled by her question, Han Li carefully asked, "You've visited humans before?"

With fluent human language, she said, "Of course, I've even visited one of your three sovereigns, the Spirit Sovereign. I held his superb attainments in puppet techniques in great admiration. In truth, there have been many powerful existences in the Flying Spirit Tribe that have visited the humans. With regards to the friendly relations between our races, I will answer your questions. But I will expect you to answer my questions as well. Otherwise..."

When Han Li heard her threat, his calm expression broke for just a moment.

"How did Senior see through my disguise? Regardless of anything else, I've refined my Thunderstorm Wings to completion. I've even altered its aura with secret techniques to match your kin. So long as something on Senior's level doesn't touch me or examine my true essence, they shouldn't be able to discover anything wrong. Otherwise, I wouldn't have dared to enter the clan."

This question had left him perplexed.

The young woman smiled and answered, "Your transformation is entirely complete. The Kun Peng Qi on your body allowed you to pass through the holy city's grand restriction undetected. If you encountered the other elders in the clan, you would most likely pass them by if they didn't undergo a deliberate examination. However, I am different. As the grand elder, I wield the holy artifact, the symbol of power in the clan. Our Tian Peng's holy artifact can see through all illusions and directly peer into your body's true essence. No matter how impressive your illusions may be, they are no use against me."

Han Li suddenly came to a realization, but he soon felt extremely gloomy.

Han Li wryly laughed, "You mean, if I went to the other branches of your tribe, I wouldn't have been discovered?"

The young woman smirked and indirectly answered, "Of the seventy-two branches, only the You Shui Race's holy artifact has a similar ability."

Han Li grew silent for a moment. He eventually asked, "What does the holy disciple and the Kun Peng True Blood have to do with what is sealed in the Spiritseal Tower?"

The young woman explained, "The Spiritseal Tower contains the lesser half of a Kun Peng True Ancestor's holy soul, which was gathered at astronomical cost during our golden age. By relying on the holy soul's power, our Tian Peng Race was able to persist until today, but there is no need for you to know the specifics. As for the matter regarding the holy disciple, it is quite simple; it is the general title within the tribe for those with the potential to inherit true blood. If a holy disciple is truly capable of inheriting the holy true blood of a race and passes a trial, they could become the race's holy master."

Han Li didn't reveal any surprise when he heard this.

He had already guessed as much. He was even disinclined to pursue the topic of the holy master any further.

The young woman blinked and asked, "It seems you have no other questions for me, so it should be my turn. The wings on your back should've been refined by something from a Kun Peng. it caused the holy spirit to struggle free of the Spiritseal Tower. This is something that rarely occurred since the creation of the tower."

Han Li frowned and truthfully answered, "It wasn't anything much. I only refined a remnant fragment of a Kun Peng feather."

The young woman doubtfully said, "Kun Peng feather? That can't be. Even if it was a complete Kun Peng feather, it shouldn't have provoked the holy spirit to such a degree."

"I'm not sure about this myself." Han Li shook his head, also confused over the matter.

After muttering to herself, she indifferently said, "Hand over the winged treasure over to me for inspection."

Han Li's heart sank, but when he met her bright jewel-like eyes, he only hesitated for a second before shaking his shoulder. In a flash of white light, the wings disappeared, only for them to reappear in miniature size in his hands.

Han Li raised his hand and presented the small crystalline wings to her.

Han Li's unexpected forwardness had surprised the grand elder.

She looked at Han Li's serene face for a long while and eventually took the wings with a smile.

While nothing odd appeared on his face, he could only wry laugh in his mind.

If he weren't facing a mid-Body Integration grade existence, he would've refined the wings into his mind. Even if he was forcibly detained, he'd most likely be able to still use the wing's spatial abilities and directly summon them back. Otherwise, he definitely wouldn't have given them over.

The young woman held the Thunderstorm Wings in hand and closely examined them for a short moment. A curious expression soon appeared on her face.

She flicked her finger and sent the wings back in Han Li's direction.

Relieved, Han Li had the wings silently disappear in a flash of white light and momentarily reappear on his back.

The young woman appeared indifferent at the sight and slowly asked, "In truth, not only do the wings have the True Ancestor Kun Peng feather, but it also has the feature of the Heavenly Phoenix. I have a rough understanding of how this came to be, but I'd like to hear how you acquired the Kun Pung Feather."

Han Li was surprised when he heard this, but he didn't conceal anything and described the battle he witnessed between the Kun Peng and the Rahu at the realm boundary.

When the young woman finished listening, she appeared pensive. A moment later, she examined Han Li once more and said, "Brother Han, would you be interested in entering our Tian Peng Race and becoming our holy disciple?"

Han Li was dumbfounded.

Han Li blinked and asked, "Did I hear correctly? Does Senior wish for me to join your race?"

"That's right. I have a plan in mind, but the matter is incredibly important. I'll need to discuss the matter with the other elders."

Han Li went silent for a moment and eventually noted, "But I am a human, not a true Tian Peng being."

"So you still don't know. Normally, Kun Peng feathers and other Kun Peng items are left behind from deceased Kun Peng. However, the feather you have refined was an item left behind from a living Kun Peng True Ancestor. The feather contains an aura several times stronger than an ordinary Kun Peng Feather. In addition, this feather most like contains blood essence that you haven't yet perceived. Since our Tian Peng Race had been the descendants of a Kun Peng True Ancestor and you've refined the Kun Peng item, you may have refined the Kun Peng blood into your body as well. It wouldn't be mistaken to consider you our kin." Her words left Han Li at an even greater loss.

A short moment later, Han Li woke up from his amazement and he looked at the young woman with narrowed eyes. He laughed and said, "I heard that your Tian Peng Race's current holy master has already perished, and now there is no one in your race that can inherit the Kun Peng True Blood. It is also said that the Flying Spirit Tribe is possibly removing your race from the seventy-two branches. Could this be true?"

"How do you know about that?" The young woman's face slightly changed and the image of a golden bird appeared behind her.

The phantom simply unfolded its wings, but Han Li felt an immense pressure on his shoulder, and he soon heard his bones begin to crack.

With a thud, Han Li's legs sank a half foot deep in the stone floor.

Han Li's complexion also turned incredibly pale.

But at that moment, the young woman frowned and the bird phantom disappeared.

In the blink of an eye, the young woman restored her calm and said, "I don't know how you came across this information, but I hope you'll keep it secret for the time being. I don't wish for the holy city to fall into chaos. Also, there is a mistake in your words. We do have two holy disciples that can inherit the true ancestor blood that we've kept concealed. However, their cultivation is still too low to succeed in the trial placed by the various races. That is why I've invited you to join our clan."

After shifting his eyes, a thought quickly went through his mind and he smiled, "The grand elder means that I'll be standing in the two holy disciples' place as their protector?"

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The young woman calmly said, "That's right. Although you do have the qualifications to join our Tian Peng race, you are a human after all. Even if you pass through the trial, it is impossible for you to become our race's holy master. However, Fellow Daoist Han can provide support to the other two holy disciples as a fellow holy disciple and help them pass the trial. If you agree, I won't treat you unfairly. Not only can you fuse a bit of Kun Peng True Blood into you, but we'll thank you in other ways as well."

Such fortune would cause an ordinary person to rejoice and promptly agree, but Han Li simply blinked and didn't immediately answer.

The young woman didn't urge him and simply remained seated as she stared at him.

In the time it took to finish a cup of tea, Han Li eventually said, "For the matter of being a holy disciple, Senior would have an outsider like me enter your race. The trial must be quite dangerous. Could you first give me an explanation?"

"It is true the trial is quite dangerous. The various race's disciples have a sixty to seventy percent chance of failure and injury. Furthermore, the holy disciple's cultivation must be at the level of a Flying Spirit General, what is known to you humans as the Deity Transformation-stage. But now, our Holy Master has unexpectedly perished, and our holy disciples are only early Spirit General-stage. They still aren't prepared.

If they attempt the trial, they will most likely fail. Although I don't know much about your abilities, since you were able to cross most of the Feng Yuan Continent over here, your strength should be significant. Even with the danger in the trial, it shouldn't be a problem for you."

Han Li's eyes stirred and he solemnly asked, "They are only at the stage of a Spirit General?"

"Don't worry, I won't trick you." The young woman smiled.

With a moment of thought, Han Li eventually said, "I'll need some time to consider it."

The young woman appeared calm as if having expected this answer. "The matter is extremely important, so consideration is expected. How about this? I'll give you three days before I expect your answer. During this time, you are free to roam the city and no one will come to bother you. Furthermore, I'm named Jin Yue. Remember that name."

Han Li uttered a word of thanks and bid farewell without any hesitation.

When Han Li left, he blurred and vanished without a trace. Jin Yue smiled and sipped the teacup that was on the table.

"Grand Elder, did you truly release him?" Grey light flashed from the wall and two Tian Peng beings appeared.

Jin Yue glanced at a tall red-bearded old man and asked, "What? How did you think I'd treat that person?"

The lofty red-bearded old man rubbed his hands and said, "There is no need for us to pass off the foreign being as our holy disciple. Wouldn't it be better to force him to leave behind the wings and select someone better to inherit the true blood?"

The young woman sneered and bluntly answered, "If it were that easy, why would I go through the trouble of saying that to a foreign being. I would just kill him and take the wings away."

The petite beautiful woman standing at the old man's side hastily fixed her jacket and respectfully said, "Then the Grand Elder means..."

Jin Yue pondered for a moment and explained, "I hold the most understanding of humans among the entirety of the Tian Peng. The humans are different from us in which their body's powers are common and most of their abilities lie in the treasures they've refined. Furthermore, they can temper their treasures for long periods and thoroughly refine them with themselves. We can take it away and possess it, but it will be difficult to rid the treasure of the original master's markings in a short amount of time. Furthermore, the treasure's might will greatly decrease from when it was used by its original owner. I've already inspected the treasure to verify this. With the information I have and the trial of the holy disciple soon being imminent, we don't have the time to seize his treasure and bestow it to our kin."

The red-bearded old man shook his head. "So it was like that. But even so, must we hand over the True Ancestor's Blood to this outsider? This isn't some small matter."

A clear glint shined from the young woman's eyes, "Elder Xu, are you confused? If our race doesn't pass the trial of the holy disciple, the entire race will be absorbed by the other branches. Giving him some true blood is minor in comparison. Besides, we can consider other options to prevent this from happening."

The dainty middle-aged woman was startled for a moment and smiled, "Hehe, the Grand Elder's words are reasonable. After this outsider helps us through this calamity, this Spirit General-grade existence will be completely at our mercy."

Jin Yue coldly glanced at the beautiful woman and emotionlessly said, "We cannot kill him. Even if he is a foreign being, he's fused Kun Peng True Blood into his body and can be considered half our kin. Our Tian Peng vows will restrict us. Furthermore, he will be our benefactor if he truly aids us through calamity. If it isn't necessary, we mustn't harm him, but we'll be able to restrict him in other ways. From now on, he won't be able to leave the holy city."

The red-bearded old man said, "So that's the case. Should we inform the gatekeepers or send people to follow the outsider in secret to keep him from escaping?"

Jin Yue aloofly said, "There is no need for Elder Xu to worry. I've performed a small trick on his wings. If he wants to escape the city, I'll immediately know about it."

The beautiful woman's eyes brightly lit up and she grinned, "It seems we've been worrying too much."

"That isn't so. Our clan has five grand elders and only three of us are in the present. The matter concerning our clan's existence is something that we must deliberate. I wouldn't have secretly called you over here otherwise. Do either of you have any objections?"

"No, the Grand Elder's method is reliable." Both the beautiful woman and the old man readily agreed.

The young woman nodded in response.

From the very beginning, none of the three Tian Peng elders had even considered that Han Li would refuse.

This came as no surprise. After all Han Li was only a Deity Transformation-grade outsider. How could he refuse their request?

At that moment, hundreds of kilometers away, Han Li was flying at a low altitude.

Although his expression was ordinary and he appeared at the various buildings below him with interest, he was inwardly pondering about his dilemma.

He had carelessly exposed his identity and found himself in a bad situation.

With his rich experience, he figured that no matter if he completed the young woman's request, the result definitely wouldn't be good for him.

A bold refusal definitely wouldn't be possible.

As for immediately escaping, the thought had already surfaced in his mind several times.

But after he swept his spiritual sense past his wings, he could only wryly laugh.

The Tian Peng Grand Elder had brazenly placed a marking on the wings. Within a certain area, she'd be able to find him without a doubt.

And he wouldn't be able to erase the mark at his current cultivation. At the very least, he'd need to spend many days. The Grand Elder could find him countless times during the duration.

It appeared his only option would be to negotiate a few conditions to protect himself.

Otherwise, it'd be better to take the risk to flee than to become the holy disciple of foreign race.

As for the conditions, he would properly deliberate them once he understood the general circumstances surrounding the Tian Peng Race.

Fortunately, he's already encountered danger countless times and managed to keep calm even under such a dilemma.

As Han Li slowly flew, thoughts quickly flickered through his mind.

After some time, Han Li arrived at a lofty bookstore in the holy city.

He spent an entire day looking through a small half of the books there before departing with a tired expression.

When he returned to his residence, Han Li shut himself in the honored guest lodge until the morning of the third day. He departed with his objective being the large trade hall that he wanted to go from the very start.

He hadn't encountered any trouble along the way.

As Han Li flew, he eventually arrived at the edge of the holy city and stood in front of a strangely constructed building.

The building was constructed next to a three-kilometer-tall mountain cliff, and in the cliff, a huge rectangular plaza was carved out of it. At the end of the plaza, there was a three-hundred-meter-tall arched gate embedded on top of the mountain wall.

To either side of the arch, a dozen armed guards were standing in formation. Between them, countless Tian Peng beings rushed to and fro the gate.

Han Li simply examined them from a distance for a moment. Then, his wings stirred and he flew among them in a ball of azure light.

A guard in front of the gate noticed Han Li. His expression faintly changed before he gave Han Li a deep salute.

Han Li nodded to him and boldly walked through.

He walked through and saw the space before him brightly light up.

There seemed to be an entirely different world past the gate.

At a glance, he saw long passages that seemingly had no end. There were also lines to lofty buildings that appeared to be walls. Under closer examination, the halls seemed to have over ten stores with each story being a hundred meters tall. And every three hundred meters in width, there would be a thirty-meter tall hall entrance.

Countless Tian Peng beings were flying back and forth, up and down. It appeared this was where the Tian Peng Race traded.

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Han Li immediately followed a wave of Tian Peng beings toward a certain shop close to the second level.

After withdrawing his wings, he entered through the door as if he really were a Tian Peng being.

After entering through the door, Han Li was immediately greeted by a lively and bustling scene.

He had arrived at a small plaza with an area of several thousand feet, and shops of different sizes stood around the entire plaza. At present, there were several hundred Tian Peng beings filing in and out of those shops.

At the exact center of the plaza stood a bluestone pole that was over 100 feet tall. Light was shimmering atop the pole, and there seemed to be something engraved on the very top.

There were around a dozen people looking up at the pole and discussing quietly among themselves. Han Li made his way over to them with curiosity in his eyes.

At the foot of the pole, he discovered that its surface had been split into two halves down the center. Both halves were riddled with text, and one side was shimmering with a red color while the other half gleamed with a green hue.

Han Li focused his gaze on the two different texts to find that they were all names for items, some of which were very familiar while others were quite alien.

Furthermore, these lines of texts surfaced and vanished intermittently. There was also a middle-aged man who appeared to be a guard seated at the foot of the pole with his eyes half-closed.

At this moment, a man suddenly forced his way out of the crowd, then strode forward and offered a few spirit stones to the guard sitting by the pole.

The middle-aged guard opened his eyes before nodding and handing over a short red stick to this man.

The man picked up the red stick and rapidly swished it toward a certain blank patch on the stone pillar.

Even though the man was moving extremely quickly, Han Li was able to glean his actions using his spirit eyes.

As the short stick swished through the air, a few shimmering red characters appeared before vanishing into the stone pillar in a flash.

Moments later, those red characters surfaced on that same spot.

Han Li was rather surprised to see this.

After a while, someone else strode forward. However, that person completely ignored the middle-aged guard. He merely spread his wings and flew up several tens of feet, then tapped a finger against a few green characters on the stone pillar.

All of a sudden, those characters began to glow with a green light, then quickly disappeared into his finger, making his entire body shimmer with brilliant spiritual light.

Meanwhile, the Tian Peng being that had traced these characters with fingers cocked his head to the side with narrowed eyes, seemingly receiving some kind of information. After a while, he withdrew his finger and turned before flying directly toward the entrance of the hall.

After that, a few more people emulated the first two, either inscribing something on the stone pillar or directly flying toward the pillar to trace the red and green characters.

Han Li stroked his chin upon seeing this, and he finally figured out what was happening.

In order to confirm his speculation, he strode forward and extended a finger toward a line of green text that appeared near the bottom of the stone pillar.

Green light immediately flashed from those characters as a cold sensation traveled straight into his mind, bringing with it a line of information.

"Selling first-grade Flowing Light Wood, no purchase limit per person, each block costs 30,000 spirit stones, find me on the fourth level, fifth hall, 31st shop." Han Li's lips twitched and he moved to the other half of the stone pillar, then placed his finger over a line of red text.

A similar string of information appeared in his mind.

"Seeking the complete carcass of a Phoenix-Tailed Beast, price will be negotiated face to face, find me on the ninth level, second hall, 10th shop!"

A peculiar look appeared on Han Li's face.

He didn't think that the Tian Peng Race facilitated transactions in such a manner.

It was quite clear that the lines of text on this stone pillar were all essentially advertisements for people selling or seeking precious items.

As such, the pillar acted as a universal directory that made things a lot more convenient for both buyers and sellers.

Furthermore, this setup didn't appear to be very difficult to replicate, and there was no reason why it couldn't be implemented in human markets as well. With that in mind, Han Li took a few steps backward and began to carefully inspect the green lines of text, which were advertising items that were being sold.

He was planning to read through this information to see if there were any items that were appealing to him.

Due to the differences between the human and Tian Peng races, many items were referred to as different names here compared to in the human race. However, for some reason, most of the precious items were still known by the same or similar names. In particular, some materials that were extremely valuable to both races were referred to with identical names.

This came as quite a surprise to Han Li when he had first mastered the language of the Flying Spirit Race. However, even though he found this to be rather perplexing, he naturally wasn't going to go around searching for an answer.

He merely appraised the stone pillar in silence, looking for anything that caught his eye.

All of a sudden, Han Li focused his gaze on a line of green text that had just appeared on the stone pillar, and his heart rate abruptly accelerated.

"Azure Shifting Fruit! Who would've thought that something like this would be sold here?" An excited flush appeared on Han Li's face. This fruit was the main ingredient, for a legendary pill, the Heavenshifting Pill, and it was most definitely among the spirit fruits that were most sought after to Han Li.

This spirit pill wasn't as extraordinary as the Black Flame Pills, but three of those pills could improve the probability of a breakthrough for late-Spatial Tempering cultivators by several tens of percentage points. As such, they were most definitely more valuable than Black Flame Pills in the eyes of the majority of high-grade cultivators, including even some powerful beings at or above the Body Integration Stage.

Consuming the Heavenshifting Pill alone could naturally assist a Spatial Tempering cultivator in breaking through a bottleneck, but in reality, most people wouldn't use this spirit pill in such a manner. Most of the people who were seeking this spirit pill intended to consume it in conjunction with other spirit medicines.

This was because not only did the Heavenshifting Pill itself possess an extraordinary effect, it was able to combine perfectly with most spirit medicines without any conflict in medicinal effects. Most incredible of all was that if this pill were to be consumed with other spirit medicines, there was a certain probability that it could enhance the medicinal effect of those complementary pills by 30% to close to 50%.

This meant that if Han Li hypothetically had a spirit pill that could enhance his magic power by the same degree equivalent to the effect of 10 years of arduous cultivation, he could consume it with the Heavenshifting Pill, and there would be a certain probability that he would be a probability that his magic power would be enhanced by the same extent as 12 to 15 years of arduous cultivation. Furthermore, this effect applied to any other pill.

As such, the rarer and more expensive a pill, the more one wanted to consume it with a Heavenshifting Pill. If they were to hit the jackpot and be blessed with the enhancement effect, that would naturally be a vast stroke of fortune.

As for the probability for this enhancement to actually take effect, that was rather difficult to strictly quantify.

There had once been someone who'd consumed three or four of these pills in succession, and every pill managed to enhance the effect of the complementary pill that was taken.

There were also stories of people selling everything they owned to purchase a few Heavenshifting Pills as a final roll of the dice, only to completely fail to be blessed with the enhancement effect, thus leaving them in complete dejection and despair.

Even so, as soon as these spirit pills first appeared, countless cultivators had gone insane over them.

All of the Azure shifting Fruits near the three human regions had been taken in just over 1,000 years, and what was even more frustrating was that these fruits took 5,000 to 6,000 years to reach full maturity.

Furthermore, each spirit tree only bore a single fruit, and after the fruit was plucked, the tree would lose all of its spiritual Qi and be reduced to a normal tree.

As such, many major sects and powers had attempted to nurture this fruit on a large scale, but it simply wasn't worth the investment.

As such, in the coming years, there would occasionally be some people who were able to source a few of these fruits from deep within the primordial world, and each and every Heavenshifting Pill that appeared inevitably led to a bloodbath between high-grade cultivators. Most of them fell into the hands of powerful beings at or above the Body Integration Stage.

When Han Li had first heard about this spirit fruit in Deep Heaven City, he was naturally extremely interested in it, and he dreamed of being able to mass-produce it using his green liquid.

Unfortunately, even Azure Shifting Fruit seeds were an extremely rare type of spirit medicine, and it had a very short shelf-life. As such, not even a single one of these fruits could be found in the three regions and seven territories.

Hence, Han Li could only stifle his excitement and lament his bad luck.

However, now that he was seeing this spirit fruit on this stone pillar, he was so excited that he could barely contain himself.

He disregarded everything else on the stone pillar as he immediately flapped his wings and rose into the air, reaching the middle of the pillar in a flash before laying a finger on that line of text.

Brilliant green light flashed, and a string of information instantly appeared in his mind.

However, after assessing the content of this string of information, Han Li's brows furrowed slightly.

"I have to meet the seller in person? That might be a little troublesome," Han Li murmured to himself as the excitement on his face faded.

However, seeing as there was a chance to secure Azure Shifting Fruits, he naturally couldn't give up regardless of how troublesome the circumstances may be.

As such, after a brief pause for contemplation, Han Li flew away as a streak of azure light.

After exiting the hall, the flew directly upward, all the way to the ninth level before flying ahead along the passageway.

After a while, Han Li glanced at the line of text inscribed above the gates of a certain hall, and he immediately flew in. This hall was identical to the previous one. Both its area and set up were a mirror-image of the hall that Han Li had just left.

However, there were clearly significantly less Tian Peng beings here than on the lower levels, with only around 20 to 30 people here.

Han Li scanned his gaze around the surrounding shops with narrowed eyes, then made his way toward a medium-sized shop situated at a corner of the hall.

This shop was divided up into two floors, and the interior was obscured by a layer of murky azure light. There was a faint red jade plaque hanging above the door, upon which was inscribed the words "Myriad Lightning Shop".

A hint of surprise flashed through Han Li's eyes upon seeing this before his expression instantly reverted back to normal.

He then immediately made his way into the shop beyond the light barrier without any hesitation.

Thus, he arrived in a spacious room that was around 30 to 40 feet in size.

Within the room was a glossy black wooden table and several faint yellow wooden chair, as well as seven or eight wooden shelves that were a little dilapidated. There was a bunch of random merchandise stacked all over the shelves, while a thin middle-aged man who appeared to be the shop owner sat behind the wooden table, along with a pair of Tian Peng beings.

Han Li surreptitiously swept his spiritual sense over these three people, upon which his expression changed slightly.

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Those two middle-aged Tian Peng beings consisted of a man and a woman, and they appeared to be a couple. They were currently discussing something with the shop owner, and one was an early-Spatial Tempering cultivator while the other was at the mid-Spatial Tempering Stage.

As for that shopkeeper, he was a fearsome late-Spatial Tempering cultivator.

Why would a man with his cultivation base be running a shop here?

Han Li was rather astonished to see this.

At this moment, the couple turned their attention to Han Li. He was clearly an unfamiliar face and only at the mid-Deity Transformation Stage, so they were also quite surprised to see him.

Meanwhile, the thin shopkeeper merely glanced at Han Li before withdrawing his gaze as he said in a lazy voice, "Don't even think about my Purple Immortal Wood if you haven't found a Spirit Magnet! As for high-grade spirit stones, do you think I lack those?"

The thin shopkeeper was certainly making no attempt to keep his wealth a secret.

"Brother Yu, asking for a Spirit Magnet in exchange for Purple Immortal Wood is far too unreasonable. Spirit Magnets can only be found deep within the earth abyss. Even the elders of our race wouldn't dare to enter those depths for no good reason, let alone a pair of Spatial Tempering cultivators like my Dao Companion and me," the middle-aged woman argued.

"That's not my problem. Do you think I just so happened to stumble across my Purple Immortal Wood? Don't mention this matter to me again unless you secure a Spirit Magnet," the thin shopkeeper retorted in a cold manner as he rolled his eyes.

The couple's expression darkened significantly uopn hearing this. However, no matter what they said next, the shopkeeper refused to make any concessions whatsoever. Int the end, the couple could only depart in a resigned manner.

Throughout this entire process, none of them said so much a single word to Han Li.

After the couple had left his shop, the shopkeeper sat down in his chair with an impatient expression, and asked, "What do you want, kid?"

"I heard that you sell Azure Shifting Fruits here, Senior. Is that true?" Han Li asked in a calm manner.

The middle-aged man faltered upon hearing this before carefully appraising Han Li, then letting loose a cold harrumph as he said, "The Azure Shifting Fruit is one of the most precious items in my shop; there's no way a mere Flying Spirit General like you can afford it. Don't waste my time."

"How would you know if I can afford this item or not if you don't state your price, Senior?" A faint smile appeared on Han Li's face, and he refused to leave.

"Hmph, looks like you prefer a more violent eviction!" The middle-aged flew into a thunderous rage as he abruptly flapped the silver wings on his back toward Han Li.

Following a dull thump, a burst of immense power swept toward Han Li, making even the surrounding air tremor and buzz.

Han Li's eyelids twitched, but he made no attempt to evade. Instead, he merely raised his hand and brought it down as if it were a sword.

A streak of golden light flashed past, slicing apart that burst of enormous power with ease. The vast burst of force brushed past Han Li on either side of his body before landing on the structure behind him with a resounding boom. "Hmm? No wonder you've got some confidence; looks like you're not just all talk." The thin shopkeeper seemed to be rather surprised.

"Do I have the right to hear your price now, Senior?" Han Li asked again with a calm expression on his face.

"Alright, I guess you do, but you're still far too arrogant if you think you can satisfy the condition for my Azure Shifting Fruit," the shopkeeper replied in an indifferent manner.

"You'll have to tell me the condition first before I can determine whether I'll be able to satisfy it," Han Li prompted with a hint of a smile on his face.

"Seeing as you're so confident and I don't have any other customers at present anyway, it couldn't hurt to tell you my conditions. I trust that I won't have to tell you about just how rare and precious Azure Shifting Fruits are. If you want this fruit, I'll give you three choices. You can have the fruit if you can satisfy any of those three conditions," the shopkeeper said as his expression eased slightly.

"Three choices? Looks like the conditions will indeed be very stringent. Otherwise, you wouldn't be providing me with so many options," Han Li said with a wry smile.

"Hehe, I'm glad you're aware of that. If you can supply a legendary Infernal Lotus Flower or Dark Blood Crystal, then I can give the Azure Shifting Fruit to you right away," the middle-aged man chuckled coldly.

"Those two items are only rumored to exist, and it's yet to confirmed whether they can actually be found in this world or not. There's no way that I could be in possession of those." Han Li immediately shook his head in response.

"Hehe, only rumored to exist, eh?" A deriding sneer appeared on the middle-aged man's face upon hearing this. "Seeing as you think this first condition is impossible to satisfy, then this second one is definitely achievable. If you have 500 or 600 top-grade spirit stones in your possession, I can reluctantly sell my Azure Shifting Fruit to you."

"500 to 600 top-grade spirit stones? Surely you jest, Senior. Even the elders of the Tian Peng Race most likely won't be able to bring out so many spirit stones of that caliber. I can't satisfy that condition, either." Han Li's expression was beginning to darken slightly.

If the shopkeeper asked him for only 100 top-grade spirit stones, then he could sell the spirit medicines in his possession and perhaps scrape together that many. However, 500 to 600 was far too many, and he didn't even consider it to be a feasible option.

"Hmph, the Azure Shifting Fruit belongs to me; if I think it's worth that price, then I'll naturally state such a condition," the shopkeeper said in an unfazed manner.

Han Li had no response to this.

"If you can't accept the first two conditions, then the final one will most likely be even more impossible for you. Do you still want to hear it?" the middle-aged man asked in a cold voice.

"Please do tell, Senior!" Han Li replied with a dark expression.

Upon hearing Han Li's response, a peculiar look appeared on the shopkeeper's face. Only after a long while did he continue, "The final condition is not one that can just be satisfied by anyone. Before I disclose it to you, I must ask you something first. Are you proficient in wielding the power of lightning?"

"Lightning?" Han Li's pupils contracted in surprise.

"Indeed. If you don't possess lightning abilities or only have an insufficient grasp of lightning, then there's no need for me to reveal the third choice to you."

Han Li was a little perplexed, but after a brief moment of contemplation, he still replied truthfully, "If it's the power of lightning, then I can indeed say that I'm rather proficient in it."

"Is that so? Your words carry no weight. Show me your skills and I'll be the one to decide whether you have the right to hear the third choice." The middle-aged man showed no intention of being swayed by Han Li's words.

"Sure," Han Li answered before gently flapping his wings.

A loud thunderclap immediately erupted as countless arcs of silver lightning abruptly surfaced over his wings. The lightning then intertwined before compressing to form a dozen or so silver balls of lightning around Han Li in the blink of an eye.

Each ball of lightning was comparable to the size of a human fist, and they were crackling and flashing erratically. The fearsome power imbued within these balls of lightning made the middle-aged man's pupils contract, and a hint of elation appeared on his face.

"You certainly weren't exaggerating! Your lightning prowess is indeed quite remarkable. You have the right to hear the final option. It's actually quite simple; you don't even need to offer anything in exchange for the Azure Shifting Fruit. All you have to do is help me tame a lightning-attribute spirit beast."

"Taming a spirit beast?" Han Li's eyes lit up with surprise and a hint of excitement.

"What? You think it's going to be easy? Truth be told, this spirit beast is rather special. I've already captured it alive, but I've been unable to tame it. I've enlisted the help of many people to try and tame it, but all of them have failed. In fact, there were quite a few of them with insufficient lightning powers, and were harmed by backlash from this spirit beast. However, with your proficiency in the power of lightning, it won't be impossible. I have to give you a disclaimer first, though; I don't accept any responsibility if you're injured or killed," the middle-aged man said in a meaningful voice.

"A lightning-attribute spirit beast? Would you be able to tell me what spirit beast that is, Senior?" Han Li asked with furrowed brows?

"I'm afraid I can't tell you that for now. If you do decide to help me, I can take you to see this beast, and you'll know what it is then." A cunning light flashed through the middle-aged man's eyes.

Han Li stroked his chin upon hearing this, and he was rather unsettled by this man's ambiguous reply, but he still quickly weighed up the situation.

This man was a late-Spatial Tempering cultivator, yet even he couldn't tame this spirit beast, so it had to be quite special in some way. However, he had been quite transparent about the situation aside from his reluctance to reveal just what this spirit beast was, so his offer did appear to be quite sincere.

Han Li only spoke again after a lengthy period of contemplation. "When you say 'tame', what exactly do you need me to do, Senior?"

"Your job will be to subdue it for me so it accepts my master recognition ceremony," the middle-aged man replied without any hesitation.

"If that's all I have to do, then I'd be willing to assist you, Senior," Han Li also replied quite quickly. "Good! I have to prepare some things in advance for the master recognition ceremony. Come back here to find me in four days," the shopkeeper said as a smile appeared on his face.

"I'll be sure do so. Farewell for now, Senior," Han Li said as he cupped his fist in a salute, then promptly departed from the shop.

The middle-aged stroked his goatee as he looked on in the direction that Han Li had departed toward, and a hint of excitement appeared in his eyes.

After exiting the shop, Han Li didn't immediately leave the exchange center. Instead, he returned to the stone pillar for information exchange, hoping to find some other items that would catch his fancy...

Han Li only left the exchange center with an elated expression on his face right on the cusp of closing time.

He had truly reaped bountiful rewards here. Aside from that advertisement for the Azure Sifting Fruit, there were also advertisements on the stone pillar selling many precious materials that were extremely rare among the human race. Some of them were tool refinement materials while others consisted of spirit medicines and spirit fruits.

There was one particular spirit medicine among them that was one of the main ingredients alongside the Golden Marrow Crystal Insect for refining the Provenance True Devil Projection.

That was naturally a source of elation for Han Li. If he could find the other two spirit medicines required, he'd have all of the ingredients he needed to manifest the true body.

With that in mind, Han Li flew into the distance as a streak of azure light.

The next day was going to the third day since he made his agreement with the grand elder of the Tian Peng Race. However, Han Li wore a faint smile as he flew through the air, seemingly having already forgotten about this agreement.

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"Have you agreed to join our Tian Peng Race?" A young woman asked with a pair of bright shimmering eyes.

"I won't be allowed to leave if I don't agree, right?" Han Li sighed in a resigned manner.

At this moment, he was situated within a pavilion with this young woman, along with an elderly man and another beauty.

These two new early-Body Integration Stage Tian Peng Race elders were currently appraising the Thunderstorm Wings on his back with scorching yearning in their eyes.

"You've made a wise decision, Fellow Daoist Han. As long as our race's holy disciple can pass the trial, we'll be sure to repay you." The young woman's voice was filled with elation, but her calm tone also suggested that she had already predicted Han Li's answer well in advance.

"If the trial really is as you describe, then I really haven't offered much assistance here. However, at the same time, I don't want to be completely at your mercy once I've outlived my usefulness, so I have two conditions. I hope you can accept those two conditions so I can assist your race's holy disciple without any qualms or concerns," Han Li suddenly said.

"Conditions? Go on, then," the elderly man prompted with furrowed brows.

"I want a Kun Peng Relic, as well as the right to record my name on the replica scroll of the Tian Peng Vow," Han Li replied with a faint smile.

"You know of those things?" All three Tian Peng beings' expression changed drastically in unison upon hearing this.

"That's impossible! Our race only has a dozen or so Kun Peng Relics in total, and every one of them was left behind by our race's past grand elders when they passed away; how could we give one to you? As for the Tian Peng Vow, our race only has three replica scrolls, and there's no space on them for you to record your name," the elderly man immediately refused with a dark expression.

"Indeed, those two items are both extremely valuable to our race. Would you be willing to accept any other conditions?" the beautiful woman among the trio asked.

The young woman didn't say anything, but she wore a contemplative look on her face."I'm not asking for the Kun Peng Relic solely for myself. Only after consuming the relic will I be able to grasp the power of the Kung Peng and manifest a Kun Peng body. Only then will I be able to pose as your race's holy disciple and not have my cover blown by other races. With the relic in addition to the Kung Peng feather and Kun Peng true blood that I've fused with my body, I should have the right to record my name on a replica scroll of the Tian Peng vow. That's the only way to show me that your race doesn't harbor any ill will toward me after the even," Han Li said in a calm voice.

"How do you know of these things? Did someone in our race disclose this information to you?" the elderly man asked with a steely expression.

"That shouldn't be the case. Fellow Daoist Han stayed for an entire day within the Omniscient Pavilion in the city, so he most likely gathered this information from the books in there. I almost forget that all humans can possess eidetic memories once they reach a high enough cultivation base," Jin Yue said in a calm voice.

"Even so, we absolutely cannot accept these conditions." The elderly man shook his head in a stubborn manner.

"Why not? if a holy master doesn't appear among your race during this trial, you'll most likely be removed from the 72 branches of the Flying Spirit Race, and you'll be forcibly conquered by other more powerful branches. Compared to that, I think what I'm asking for is very reasonable, unless the three of you were planning to turn on me after the event from the very beginning," Han Li said in a slow voice.

Both the elderly man and the beautiful woman's expressions darkened upon hearing this.

After a brief silence, Jin Yue suddenly said, "Alright, I accept your conditions."

"You can't..."

"Grand Elder, we should discuss this matter in greater depth!"

Both of the other elders hurriedly tried to dissuade her.

"There's no need for further discussion. It's just as Fellow Daoist Han has said, this crisis could quite possibly spell the downfall of our race. In contrast, his conditions are indeed very reasonable. I'm making an executive decision here; speak no further on this matter," Jin Yue said in a cold voice as she raised a hand toward the two elders.

The two elders glanced at one another hesitantly upon hearing this, but they decided to keep their mouths shut in the end.

"I can accept the conditions you stated, but in order to ensure that you'll do everything in your power to assist our two holy disciples to pass the trial, I'll need you to sign a blood vow. If no holy master emerged from our race following the conclusion of the trial, as the Grand Elder, I can sacrifice some of my lifespan to remove you from the Tian Peng Vow, then kill you on the spot." Jin Yue's gaze suddenly became as sharp as daggers.

Han Li's heart stirred slightly in response, but he merely put on a faint smile, and said, "Rest assured, Senior. If the holy disciples fail to pass the trial due to lack of effort on my part, then I'm willing to accept any punishment you hand down to me."

"Good. Go back and prepare; I'll send someone to get you tomorrow so we can hold your spirit initiation ceremony and officially welcome you into our race," the young woman said in an implacable voice.

Han Li naturally had no objections, and he immediately cupped his fist in a farewell salute to the tree elders before departing.

The elderly man looked on as Han Li exited the room, then took a deep breath and exhaled before turning to Jin Yue with a heavy expression. "Grand Elder, I still oppose this course of action. I can accept giving him the Kun Peng Relic, but if we record his name onto the replica scrolls of the Tian Peng Vow, none of our brethren will be able to do anything to him unless he commits the few extremely severe crimes listed in the vow. Beings from foreign races could easily use this against us and bring calamity to our race."

"I'm naturally aware of this. However, you seem to have forgotten something, Elder Xu. The Tian Peng Vow can only restrict our brethren; have you forgotten about that traitor from 3,000 years ago?" A peculiar look appeared on Jin Yue's face as she spoke.

"Could it be..." The beautiful woman among the trio was beginning to understand where this was going.

Jin Yue gently stroked her hair as she replied, "A few days ago, I met the Flying Spirit Generals that have recently returned to the city with the worshipful offerings, and I learned some things about that human from them. According to them, this human cultivator appears to only possess the cultivation base of a mid-Flying General, but he's actually at least as powerful as an early-Great Spirit General. With him on our side, our holy disciples are virtually guaranteed to pass the trial, so I'm willing to make these concessions. Furthermore, when all is said and done, as long as this human is willing to stay in our holy city and doesn't come into contact with any of his brethren, we don't have to resort to that final step. What we do have to be wary of is those enemies of our race plotting against us during the trial."

"Your wisdom is unmatched, Grand Elder!" The two elders were greatly reassured.

On the other end, Han Li had just arrived back at his residence when he encountered a few visitors.

They were none other than Feng Xiao, Bai Lei, and Bai Ning, who had returned to the city with him.

The three of them greeted Han Li in a very warm and enthusiastic manner and stayed to chat with him for the better part of half a day before departing.

After seeing off this trio of siblings, Han Li's smile faded as he returned to the room with a contemplative look on his face and closed the doors.

Sure enough, eight Tian Peng beings came to find him the next morning, four of which were male while the other four were female. Even though their cultivation bases were only at the Foundation Establishment Stage, they were all very young, so their aptitudes were quite brilliant.

After casting a glance at the eight of them, Han Li didn't say anything as he departed behind them toward a certain location in the holy city.

After flying over more than half of the entire city, Han Li appeared within a strange building situated on a corner of the city almost half a day later.

This building was a massive plaza that kind of resembled an arena. The entire plaza was circular in shape and was surrounded by massive stone walls that were roughly 1,000 feet tall, taking up an area of several kilometers.

Atop those stone walls stood hundreds of stone bird statues, and all of them were flashing with different colors of light. They had clearly had some kind of restriction placed on them, and the light emanating from the statues combined to form a rainbow barrier of light that enshrouded the entire plaza.

At the center of the plaza stood a sacrificial-altar-like tall platform that was entirely constructed from pristine and flawless white jade.

Han Li currently stood atop the jade platform with a dozen or so white-robed Tian Peng beings standing around him in a solemn and intimidating manner. There were both men and women among them, and all of them were at the Spatial Tempering Stage.

Jin Yue and the three Tian Peng Race elders stood right in front of Han Li while a pair of young women who appeared to be servants stood behind them, holding a silver disk each.

"Fellow Daoist Han, all of the preparations have been made. In order to completely activate the power of the Kun Peng Relic and Kun Peng Blood within you prior to the commencement of the trial, the two elders and I will be unleashing our abilities to assist you in refining those two items in a short time. We'll then be bestowing upon you the transformation technique of our Tian Peng Race. I hope you won't disappoint us, Fellow Daoist Han," Jin Yue said as she looked directly into Han Li's eyes.

"Rest assured, Senior. I've already made a promise to all of you, so I'll definitely do everything within my power to assist the holy disciples," Han Li replied in a serious manner.

"Good. Fuse the Kung Peng True Blood into your body first and Elder Xu will activate the power of the spirit blood, the forcibly fuse it with your blood so that they become one and the same. The process will be a little painful, but I'm sure you'll be able to handle it. After that, you can consume the Kun Peng Relic, and I'll personally assist you in refining the relic. You have to take care during this process not to suffer backlash and go into Qi deviation from the power of the relic. After all, you're not a true Tian Peng being, so this procedure may be rather perilous," Jin Yue cautioned.

Han Li naturally nodded in response.

Han Li's willingness to cooperate was very pleasing for Jin Yue, and she also nodded before waving a hand behind her.

One of the female servants immediately made her way over to Jin Yue in a respectful manner before offering the silver disk in her hand to the grand elder.

Jin Yue took an indifferent glance at the silver disk before flicking a slim finger toward the screen of light.

White light flashed erratically before disappearing soundlessly to reveal a small thumbs-sized azure vial. The vial was rather antiquated and appeared to be made from neither metal nor jade.

Jin Yue looked at the small vial as faint silver light flashed from her body, and her expression suddenly became extremely solemn and dignified.

Meanwhile, all of the other Tian Peng beings bowed in unison toward the small vial with expressions of awe and veneration on their faces.

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Jin Yue began to chant something in a voice that was very pleasant to the ears, and she pointed a finger at the small vial. An azure thread shot forth from her fingertip before striking the vial, upon which it tremored before rising into the air, heading directly toward where Han Li was situated.

Han Li immediately sat down onto the jade platform with his legs crossed.

At this moment, Elder Xu and the beautiful woman raised their hands in unison to summon an object each, one of which was as crimson as blood while the other carried a refreshing green hue.

They were, respectively, a palm-sized crimson lotus flower and a green banana leaf.

The crimson lotus flower rotated on the spot, expanding to around 10 feet in size and emanating a faint fragrance. Meanwhile, the banana leaf also expanded to around the size of a grown human amid a burst of green light, and a series of strange green runes appeared over its surface, glowing with a dazzling light.

Han Li raised his eyebrows, yet before he could identify what purposes these two items served, the crimson lotus was already descending toward his head.

Han Li was initially startled to see this before he suddenly experienced a rush of weightlessness, having been gently carried up into mid-air by the crimson lotus flower.

The faint fragrance of the lotus flower wafted into his nostrils, striking him with a slightly intoxicating sensation.

However, Han Li didn't panic in response. Instead, he merely sat at the center of the lotus flower with his eyes narrowed, seemingly having fallen asleep, but he made sure to retain a wisp of clarity in his mind.

Elder Xu let loose a low cry and the petals of the crimson lotus flower slowly converged toward the center.

In the blink of an eye, all of the petals had joined together to form a vibrant red flower bud.

Jin Yue flicked both fingers toward the small vial upon seeing this.

Several azure threads shot forth, disappearing into the small vial in a flash.

A ball of green light erupted from the small vial, and its lid abruptly vanished as a ball of azure light emerged from within.

Following a crisp cry, the ball of light receded and transformed into an azure bird that was several inches in size, and it attempted to spread its wings and fly away.

However, Jin Yue was already prepared for this, and she flapped the golden wings on her back.

Swaths of golden light immediately swept forth from her wings, completely enshrouding the azure bird within.

The bird struggled for a while within the light before turning into a small drop of azure liquid with faint undertones of silver light peeking through it.

Jin Yue then made a hand seal with a calm expression on her face before pointing a finger at the drop of azure liquid.

The golden tremored before carrying the azure liquid down toward the flower bud.

The azure drop of liquid then disappeared into the crimson lotus amid a dull thump as golden and crimson light intertwined.

Right at this moment, Elder Xu's body swayed and he appeared on one side of the crimson lotus flower in a wraith-like manner. He then raised a hand and placed it on onto the lotus flower before spreading open a pair of silver wings on his back. Silver spiritual light began to surge from his hand into the crimson lotus flower while the beautiful woman appeared on the other side of the flower and replicated Elder Xu's actions. However, the spiritual light flowing from her palm was white.

All of a sudden, a buzzing sound rang out from the crimson lotus, and the crimson light on its surface also began to flash erratically.

Right at this moment, the green banana leaf hovering mid-air also descended from above. However, as soon as it came into contact with the crimson lotus flower, the banana leaf self-detonated, following which countless green lines shot forth in all directions before disappearing into the lotus flower.

Immediately thereafter, a series of strange green patterns appeared over the surface of the crimson lotus. In the next instant, the crimson light receded, and the buzzing sound also subsided.

Elder Xu and the beauty paid no heed to this as they both closed their eyes, focusing wholeheartedly on injecting pure spiritual light into the lotus flower.

However, Jin Yue heaved a long sigh of relief upon seeing this, and she smiled as she murmured to herself, "It's just as I predicted; the aura within this human's body is able to accept the Kun Peng True Blood. The most important thing now is to see just how much of the Kun Peng Blood's power he can activate as a human."

After that, Jin Yue turned to the other higher-ups of the Tian Peng Race standing nearby, and said in a cold voice, "You've all seen what's happened; the survival of our race hinges on this man. Hence, all of you must keep all information about this man strictly confidential to the outside world. From now on, this man will be known as the third holy disciple that we've been nurturing in secret after sending him far away for cultivation purposes. Understood?"

The Spatial Tempering Stage Tian Peng beings stirred as they vowed in unison, "Yes, Grand Elder; we won't tell a single soul."

Jin Yue nodded as her expression eased, and she said, "I trust that you wouldn't do something severely detrimental to our sect, either. Two months from now, I'll select a few people among you to accompany me and the holy disciples to the trial grounds."

"Two months? Why are we going so early? Isn't there still a year left?" someone immediately exclaimed.

"Apparently, a dozen or so races, including the Chi Rong Race and the Raven Race, requested for the trial to be held earlier than the designated time. Our elders vehemently opposed this proposal on the panel of elders, but it was still passed due to a majority vote."

"Why? Surely they have to at least provide a reason for this," another Tian Peng being chimed in in an enraged voice.

"Of course they've prepared a reason for this. They say that the earth abyss has been a little chaotic lately, so it's best to hold the trial earlier in case any mishaps occur due to excessive delays," Jin Yue explained in a calm manner.

"The demons of the earth abyss have always been sworn enemies of our Flying Spirit Race; when has it not been chaotic over there? They're just doing this to target the weaker branches!" Another Tian Peng being flared up with rage.

"There's no point in discussing the matter any further. The panel of elders has already delivered their verdict, so we can only accept it. Aside from the upcoming trial that we have to prepare for, there have also been beings of foreign races that have frequently appeared on our territory of late, and they've been plundering our lands with reckless abandon. I'll assign some troops to some of you to set off immediately and kill off these abhorrent cowards. Make sure to teach all of the other branches a lesson that they won't be forgetting anytime soon." Jin Yue's voice suddenly turned frosty and forbidding as she spoke.

"Yes, Grand Elder!" the Tian Peng beings answered in unison as they lowered their heads.

After that, Jin Yue began to assign missions to everyone, and all of them departed one after another to carry out their designated tasks.

The jade platform became virtually empty in the blink of an eye. Aside from Jin Yue and the two elders, as well as the two servants standing behind Jin Yue, there was no one else standing on the platform.

Jin Yue turned and cast her gaze toward the crimson lotus flower, where the two Body Integration Stage elders were still relentlessly pouring forth their spiritual pour, and the flower seemed to have expanded even further.

At the same time, the green patterns on the surface of the lotus flower also began to flash erratically as if they'd come to life.

Jin Yue suddenly made a grabbing motion toward the silver disk that the other servant was carrying, and a white bead whistled forth from the disk before being drawn into her grasp.

She plucked the bead between two of her fingers and brought it closer to her eyes before conducting a thorough inspection.

All of a sudden, a peculiar look appeared on her face.

"Which grand elder passed away to produce this relic?" she asked.

"It's the relic left behind by the ninth grand elder. According to your orders, we found the relic that had been stored for the longest period of time, and most of the power within it should have faded by now," the servant replied respectfully.

"The ninth grand elder? Is that Grand Elder Hong Yun, who invented the awakening ability, but died after going insane?" Jin Yue's expression changed slightly upon hearing this.

"That is indeed the relic left behind by Elder Hong Yun. Due to the strange circumstances surrounding Elder Hong Yun's death, aside from his Kung Peng power, there's also a hint of his residual spiritual sense residing within the relic. If it were to be consumed by a cultivator, the wisp of spiritual sense could potentially result in undesirable side-effects. As such, it's been stored in a secret chamber this entire time. If you feel it's inappropriate, I can go back and change once right away," the servant explained in an uneasy manner. "There's no need for that; this one will suffice." Jin Yue's expression returned to normal as she turned her gaze back to the crimson lotus flower.

At this moment, the green patterns on the surface of the flower had begun to twist and warp, and the entire crimson lotus began to swell and bulge...

Two days later, in the air above the jade platform.

A massive azure bird was flying up and down in the sky, leaving a series of afterimages in its wake. Arcs of golden lightning and azure light surfaced over its body and all of a sudden, it came to an abrupt halt and it grabbed the air in the distance with its talons in a vicious manner.

10 white claw projections hurtled through the air, slicing a few faint white marks into space before disappearing in a flash.

It then violently flapped its wings forward and a vast expanse of azure light swept forth before transforming into palm-sized blades of wind, enshrouding an area with a radius of over 1,000 feet.

A loud boom erupted as the massive azure bird opened its beak to blat forth balls of golden lightning, which crashed into one another to transform the space before it into a sea of lightning.

Following a long sharp screech, the azure bird flapped its wings and abruptly disappeared amid a gust of fierce winds.

In the next instant, gale-force winds erupted even higher up in the air, and the azure bird reappeared. Within the halos of azure light, the bird's body expanded rapidly, swelling form around 10 feet in size to over 1,000 feet in the blink of an eye. As it spread its wings, it cast a gargantuan shadow over the entire jade platform.

Meanwhile, the three figures standing on the platform were all quite alarmed by the sight of this massive bird.

"Grand Elder, did you really only feed him that incomplete relic from the ninth elder?" Elder Xu asked in an incredulous voice.

"Do you suspect that I fed this human some kind of miracle pill?" Jin Yue asked in a cold voice as her expression darkened.

"I wouldn't dare to think that. It's just that this man grasped the manifestation technique so quickly, and the true body he's conjured up is superior to that of many Great Spirit Generals. Does he really hail from the human race?" Elder Xu mused with a skeptical look.

"You were the one who infused his body with the Kun Peng True Blood; shouldn't you know better than anyone whether he's a being from our Flying Spirit Race or not? Having said that, it's indeed quite surprising that this man has attained such a powerful transformation. Perhaps the Kun Peng feather and Kun Peng True Blood fused with his body have already changed his constitution somewhat," Jin Yue speculated after scrambling for a reason to explain this situation.

"That makes some sense," the beautiful woman sighed.

Meanwhile, Elder Xu still wore a skeptical look, clearly not convinced by this.

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Jin Yue didn't say anything further about this matter as the giant bird in the sky suddenly withdrew its wings, then quickly shrank down to its original size amid a flash of azure light.

A loud cry erupted from the bird's beak, and piercing spiritual light flashed as a half-naked man appeared in its place. The man made a hand seal before slowly descending toward the jade platform with his entire body enshrouded in a swath of azure light.

Jin Yue narrowed her eyes as her gaze fell upon the man's chest.

There, she saw a large azure bird image that was extremely life-like and shimmering with faint spiritual light.

This man was naturally none other than Han Li, who had fused the Kun Peng True Blood into his body and also refined the Kun Peng Relic.

The image on his chest was a sign that he possessed true holy blood and had completely activated it. The same kind of image appeared on the bodies of most holy disciples as well.

With that image on his body, even if the beings of the other races were made aware of that fact that he was not a true Tian Peng being, they most likely wouldn't be able to think of any valid excuses to prevent him for participating in the trial.

Jin Yue heaved a faint sigh and consoled herself internally with that thought.

In contrast, Elder Xu and the beautiful woman were feeling quite disgruntled by the image on Han Li's chest.

He was a human, yet the true holy image that even most higher-ups of the race didn't possess had appeared on his body. That was very disheartening to them.

Golden and silver light flashed and a set of golden and silver robes appeared over Han Li's body. He then descended toward the three elders and cupped his fist in a salute as he said, "Thank you for your assistance, Seniors. I've already attained a decent level of mastery of manifestation techniques. Please offer me your guidance if I'm doing something incorrectly."

His attitude had suddenly become extremely sincere and respectful.

"Your manifestation technique is quite splendid already, so there's nothing left for us to teach you. You can go back for now. Two months from now, I'll take you to the trial grounds. I'll also bring a replica scroll of the Tian Peng Vow to you so you can record your name on it. During this time, you're free to go anywhere as long as you don't leave the holy city. By the way, I have to tell you something. Even though you've refined the Kun Peng Replica, there may be some residual baleful aura in there that we failed to remove. It'll lurk within your body, but it won't do anything during the near future. I'll help you expel it from our body when you get back from the trials," Jin Yue said in a nonchalant manner.

Han Li's expression changed slightly upon hearing this, but it quickly reverted back to normal.

"Rest assured, Senior, I'll be sure to attend the trial in two months."

Jin Yue nodded in response.

Han Li immediately recognized that as his cue to leave, so he extended another farewell salute toward the three elders before flying away as a streak of azure light.

The three elders looked on as Han Li disappeared into the distance, and they didn't discuss anything further, but they all wore contrasting expressions on their faces.

Jin Yue was looking up into the sky completely expressionlessly, but the two other elders both seemed to be deep in contemplation.

Half a day later, Han Li was situated within a room on the top floor of the guest tavern, seated on a wooden bed with his legs crossed.

He was making a hand seal as azure light flashed erratically all over his body.

There was a hint of agony etched on his face, and large droplets of sweat were beading on his forehead.

Following a long sigh, Han Li withdrew his hand seal, and the azure light receded as he opened his eyes again.

"Interesting. I didn't think that this Grand Elder Hong Yun's residual spiritual sense would be so violent. If it weren't for my Great Development Technique, I would be in some trouble. Thankfully, the spiritual sense hasn't retained any of its spiritual nature, so I can seal it away before refining it little by little," Han Li murmured to himself.

In reality, even though it was only a wisp of spiritual sense, it once belonged to a Body Integration Stage being, so it was still extremely powerful and would most likely take him several centuries to completely refine. However, the benefits that he would reap from doing so would be quite significant as well. After refining this wisp of spiritual sense, his own spiritual sense would increase by almost 50%.

As for the traces of baleful Qi within the relic, he didn't see it as much of an issue as the Provenance True Devil Arts was the bane of such things.

Han Li paused momentarily before abruptly sweeping a hand over the lightning robe he was wearing.

Following a loud thunderclap, the robe disappeared into his body as countless arcs of golden and silver lightning.

As such, Han Li naturally caught sight of the azure bird image on his chest.

"Hmph, Tian Peng Image? More like Awakening Image." A hint of surprise appeared on Han Li's face as he gently tapped the image with a finger.

An incredible scene then ensued. Five-colored light suddenly flashed from the azure bird image and in the next instant, it transformed into a five-colored peacock with its tail feathers fully spread open. Brilliant golden light then erupted, and the image transformed into that of a howling golden ape. Finally, white light flashed, and the image completely disappeared.

If Jin Yue and the other two Tian Peng Race elders were present to witness the scenes that had just unfolded, they would be completely flabbergasted.

How could a true holy image take on different forms and disappear of its own accord?

Generally speaking, once true holy images appeared on one's body, it would remain with that being for the rest of its life, and it wouldn't easily take on any changes.

However, Han Li seemed to be very pleased as he looked down at his chest.

"I've already mastered three mantras of the 12 Awakening Transformations. I'm missing the true bloods of the Five-Colored Peacock and Giant Mountain Ape so I can't truly transform into those true spirit bodies, but this ability is astonishingly powerful, nonetheless," Han Li murmured to himself.

This cultivation art was something that Han Li had unintentionally obtained from refining some of Hong Yun's spiritual sense, and in theory, it could allow him to take on the forms of 12 different types of true spirits, so its power was undoubtedly downright extraordinary. If he could completely master all 12 true spirit bodies, with the abilities that true spirits possessed, even the true immortals of a higher realm would have to be wary of him.

Of course, that was merely an extravagant dream. Even if he were to completely master this cultivation art, he would still only attain a very small amount of the abilities that the true spirits possessed. Unfortunately, even though the true dragon and the heavenly phoenix were among these 12 forms, he still hadn't obtained their mantras yet. These mantras were hidden deeper within the wisp of Hong Yun's residual sense, and he didn't know how long it would take for him to attain them. Otherwise, with the true dragon blood and heavenly phoenix blood he currently possessed, he would be able to immediately attain two more transformations.

With that in mind, Han Li was feeling rather forlorn.

As for the Kun Peng Transformation, that was the foundation for the 12 transformations, and it was the one that this Grand Elder Hong Yun was most proficient in during his lifetime. Otherwise, despite his extraordinarily powerful body, there was no way that Han Li would've been able to master the Tian Peng Transformation Technique to such an advanced degree even though he'd just come into contact with it.

A thought then occurred to Han Li, and a deriding sneer appeared on his face.

After refining the relic with Jin Yue's assistance, he didn't receive much an enhancement in the power of his spiritual sense, but he did manage to glean some useful information.

This Grand Elder Hong Yun was a brilliant prodigy; the kind that had not been seen for tens of thousands of years. Through his painstaking research of the Tian Peng Transformation, he was able to incorporate many more true spirit transformations into this technique, thereby creating the 12 Awakening Transformations

Unfortunately, even as a Body Integration Stage being and sourcing many types of true spirit bloods over many years, he was only able to invent 12 transformations. After that, his spiritual sense and physical body were no longer able to cope with the demands placed on them, thereby resulting in him being driven insane and killed by backlash from the true spirit bloods.

What was quite strange and perplexing to Han Li was that prior to going insane, this grand elder had refrained from leaving his mantras and cultivation arts to the Tian Peng Race.

Han Li was naturally unaware that back when this Hong Yun was the grand elder, the Tian Peng race had been at the very height of its power. He was able to ascend to the position of grand elder after inventing this cultivation art with his brilliant aptitude, thereby allowing him to rule over the entire Tian Peng Race. As such, not only was this cultivation art the key to his success, it also became his best-kept secret, and he didn't reveal any of it to anyone else.

All of the other elders at the time only knew that Hong Yun had invented a cultivation art known as the Awakening Arts, but they knew nothing else about it.

After that, Hong Yun was driven insane due to true spirit blood backlash and passed away, so the contents of his Awakening Arts remained a mystery.

As for why the Awakening Arts were imbued within the relic he'd left behind, that was only something known to the heavens.

Perhaps it was simply an unintentional gesture by Grand Elder Hong Yun after he had gone insane. Alternatively, perhaps he had managed to retain a final shred of sanity right before his death and suddenly wanted to leave this cultivation art behind for his race, thereby deciding to infuse it into this relic.

Han Li didn't delve too much into this matter. Seeing as this cultivation art had fallen into his hands, he naturally wasn't going to return it to the Tian Peng Race. Otherwise, the first thing those elders would think of was most likely how to kill him to prevent this cultivation art from being leaked rather than how to thank him.

Han Li naturally wasn't going to do something so suicidal.

A contemplative expression appeared on his face as he carefully pondered the situation. All of a sudden, a hint of a smile appeared on his face again.

In reality, aside from fusing the Kun Peng True Blood with his body and obtaining the Awakening Arts from the relic, he had also reaped another massive reward that filled him with elation.

Due to the stimulation his body had received during this process, he was somehow able to break through his bottleneck, so he was now at the late-Deity Transformation Stage.

With the assistance of the True Toad Liquid, his cultivation path would progress without a hitch from here onward.

The three Tian Peng Race elders were only astonished by Han Li's exemplary mastery of the Tian Peng Transformation Technique, but they spoke nothing of the sudden improvement in his cultivation base. They had most likely noticed this, but for Body Integration Stage beings like them, such a minor improvement in cultivation base simply wasn't noteworthy at all.

Han Li narrowed his eyes and considered the situation for a while longer before flipping his hand over to produce a green jade vial, then tipping out a few pills from it.

After consuming the pills, he closed his eyes and began to cultivate in a seated meditative state again.

Having just advanced to the late-Deity Transformation Stage, he had to bolster his cultivation base.

A day later, Han Li left his residence in high spirits and headed straight toward the exchange center.

This was the date on which he had agreed to meet the shopkeeper of the Myriad Lightning Shop. He was determined to secure the Azure Shifting Fruit, so he naturally wasn't going to be absent.

The journey was quite smooth, yet when Han Li arrived in that shop on the ninth level again, his expression immediately darkened.

"What's going on? Why are these people here? Am I not the only one you made an agreement with?" The one who had spoken wasn't Han Li, Instead, it was a heavily-bearded man in a suit of imposing black armor.

At this moment, aside from Han Li, there were three other people present.

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Aside from the thin shopkeeper and the armor-clad man who had just spoken, there was also a young man with a set of delicate facial features present, and he also wore an expression of displeasure on his face.

Han Li surreptitiously swept his spiritual sense toward them to find that these two were both early-Spatial Tempering cultivators.

"Hmph, I never said that I was only going to bring one person with me to help me tame the spirit beast. If anyone wants to leave, feel free to do so. However, don't even think about my Iceheart Crystal, Purple Light Iron, and Azure Shifting Fruit, then," the shopkeeper rolled his eyes with a cold harrumph.

The young man and the armor-clad man glanced at once another upon hearing this while Han Li stood on the spot with slightly furrowed brows.

"Alright, so be it. However, if one of us manages to help you tame the spirit beast first, then wouldn't that mean the other two will have to walk away emptyhanded?" the young man asked.

"Hehe, don't worry about that; I never intended for the three of you to act independently. Instead, all of you are going to need to unleash your lightning powers at once. Otherwise, according to my prior experience, the lightning powers that any single one you possess won't be anywhere near enough. If you three can help me successfully tame the spirit beast, then I'll give all of you the items I promised," the shopkeeper chuckled coldly.

The young man and the armor-clad man's expressions eased upon hearing this, and neither of them raised any further objections.

The shopkeeper nodded with a pleased expression before turning to Han Li, and a look of surprise appeared on his face.

"Brother Han, it's only been several days since we last met, and you've already progressed from a mid-Spirit General to a late-Spirit General. That's truly incredible. I must offer you my congratulations. With your recent progression, your lightning powers will have become even more powerful, right?"

"Thank you for your kind words, Senior. I was merely lucky to have reached this point. As for my lightning powers, they have indeed been enhanced somewhat," Han Li replied half-truthfully with a faint smile on his face.

The armor-clad man and the young man also turned to Han Li with surprise in their eyes upon hearing this conversation.

"Good. Seeing as none of you have any objections, then come with me. I've hidden the spirit beast away in an obscure location," the shopkeeper said.

"I have no objections there, but before this, shouldn't you show us the items that you promised us?" the young man asked.

The armor-clad man faltered upon hearing this before chiming in in agreement. Han Li didn't say anything, but the expression on his face clearly indicated that he also supported this notion.

The shopkeeper seemed to have anticipated this request, and he said, "No problem. I've already prepared the items in advance, so I'd be happy to show them to you now." The ease with which the shopkeeper accepted this request came as a stark contrast to usual stinginess, and the young man was clearly taken aback, having already prepared a response for a refusal from the shopkeeper.

Three wooden boxes of different sizes were hurled through the air, and it appeared that the shopkeeper really was planning to show them the items he'd promised them.

The young man and the armor-clad man were both ecstatic. They swept their sleeves through the air, sending forth swaths of light that caught the oncoming wooden boxes.

Han Li's heart jolted as he also caught the box flying toward him before removing its lid.

A mesmerizing medicinal aroma wafted toward him, and a green fist-sized fruit sat within the box. There were even a couple of strange red leaves under the fruit, and Han Li's eyes narrowed slightly as he extended a finger toward the fruit.

The other two people also reached for the items in their respective boxes so they could conduct a more thorough examination.

However, right at this moment, the shopkeeper suddenly warned, "I wouldn't do that if I were you. All of the items in the boxes have restrictions set up on them. If any mishaps occur, you won't be able to pay for those things even if you give me everything you own."

All three of them immediately faltered upon hearing this.

The armor-clad man was a little enraged as he grumbled, "What are you trying to do, Brother Yu? How are we supposed to be able to ascertain the authenticity of these items without touching them?"

"With your cultivation bases, you'll have a 70% to 80% chance of verifying these items using your eyes and spiritual sense alone. If you want to completely assess the authenticity of these items, then you'll have to wait until after the event. If the three of you are unable to help me tame the spirit beast, then there won't be any need for you to verify the items. Besides, with my reputation, are you really concerned that I would try to deceive you?" the middle-aged man replied in a nonchalant manner.

The young man stared at the item in the box for a long while before finally making a decision and tossing the box back to the shopkeepers. "Alright, we'll trust you on this one. I'm sure Brother Yu wouldn't risk ruining his own reputation over something like this."

The armor-clad man carefully examined the object in his box with a hesitant look, but still reluctantly handed over the box in the end.

After stowing away the two wooden boxes, a pleased look appeared on the shopkeeper's face before he turned toward Han Li.

At this moment, Han Li was staring at the azure fruit in the box with blue light shimmering deep within his eyes and a contemplative look on his face.

The shopkeeper faltered slightly upon seeing this before asking, "What is it? Are you of the opinion that something is amiss with the Azure Shifting Fruit, Brother Han?"

"Not at all." Han Li shook his head before replacing the lid on the wooden box and tossing it to the shopkeeper as well.

The middle-aged man caught the wooden box before taking another meaningful glance at Han Li, then leading the way out the door.

Han Li's trio naturally followed him out of the shop.

The shopkeeper flew extremely quickly, but Han Li's trio were all powerful cultivators in their own right, and they were able to keep up with ease, flying out of the exchange center before heading directly toward a certain direction in the holy city.

After flying for two hours, they arrived in an extremely secluded corner of the holy city.

There were noticeably far fewer buildings here, and very few people in the area. It was quite a sparsely populated place, and the shopkeeper led them on a descent after arriving at a completely mundane looking short building.

This nondescript building was only just over 300 feet tall, and it was split up into two levels.

As soon as the shopkeeper's feet landed on the ground, the doors of the building were immediately flung open, and two men who appeared to be in their twenties emerged from within. They hurriedly extended respectful bows toward the shopkeeper, and greeted in unison, "Welcome back, Patriarch!"

"The two of you, stand guard out here. No one is allowed to enter this place without my permission," the shopkeeper ordered.

"Yes!" the two men answered without any hesitation before positioning themselves on either side of the building's entrance. Han Li glanced at the two of them and paid them no further heed after discovering that they were merely Core Formation cultivators.

Meanwhile, the shopkeeper had already entered the building, and the young man and armor-clad man followed suit after a brief hesitation while Han Li brought up the rear.

The room wasn't a very spacious one, and all of the decor appeared to be quite plain and mundane. There were three square wooden tables and a dozen or so wooden chairs, and those pieces of furniture took up most of the area in the room.

There were also several antiquated artworks that were yellow with age hanging on the walls of the room. All of these pieces of artwork depicted demons beasts and scenery, and they weren't very noteworthy, either.

"Brother Yu, is that spirit beast really here?" the armor-clad man couldn't help but ask. This room was quite small, and it really didn't appear as if it could house any powerful spirit beasts, so it was no wonder that the man was having some doubts.

"Would I lie to you three? Come with me," the shopkeeper instructed in a brisk tone as he glared at the armor-clad man. He then made his way over to one of the scenery paintings hanging from one of the walls, and he rustled his sleeve to produce a scroll.

The scroll was unfurled to reveal the exact same scene depicted in the artwork on the wall.

Han Li and the armor-clad man both faltered upon seeing this, unable to comprehend what the shopkeeper was doing. However, the young man's expression changed drastically as he caught sight of the two pieces of artwork, and he exclaimed, "That's the Xumi Paradise Scroll! You're in possession of the Pentaluster Race's most prized treasure?"

"The Xumi Scroll? No way! Aren't there only a total of seven of those in the Pentaluster Race? How did you manage to obtain one, Brother Yu?" The armor-clad man was very startled to hear this.

Han Li had no idea what this treasure was, but his heart stirred upon hearing the word "Xumi" as he cast his gaze toward the artwork hanging on the wall.

The slightly yellow artwork depicted a small green mountain, and there was a small cluster of buildings on that mountain, but everything was rather blurry and indistinct.

"Hehe, you sure have a strong discerning eye. This is indeed a Xumi Paradise Scroll. However, it's not one of the seven scrolls that the Pentaluster Race view as their most prized treasure; this is an imperfect Xumi Scroll," the shopkeeper chuckled.

"So it's a replica?" Both the young man and the armor-clad man faltered upon hearing this.

A smug expression appeared on the shopkeeper's face as he replied, "Indeed. There aren't many people even in the Pentaluster Race who are aware of its existence. Back then, the Pentaluster Race used the spirit bones of a Five-Colored Phoenix to refine a total of 10 Xumi Paradise Scrolls, not seven. Unfortunately, three of them were flawed, and their effectiveness was severely hampered as a result. As such, those three scrolls were hidden very early on, and their existence wasn't revealed to the rest of the world. Due to various reasons, those three scrolls somehow ended up outside of the Pentaluster Race and switched hands between several other races. As for how I came about this one, that's not something the three of you need to know."

"Even though it's a flawed scroll, obtaining such a treasure is a vast fortune, Brother Yu," the armor-clad man said with an envious expression.

The young man stared at the scroll, and a hint of greed flashed through his eyes.

Han Li's expression remained unchanged, but he was also filled with a sense of yearning.

Xumi treasures were one of the treasures that he wanted to obtain the most after arriving in this Spirit Realm. Unlike the false Xumi space refined using spatial rifts in the human world, this was an independent existence, and was a true spatial treasure that could be carried.

"Alright, let's go. The spirit beast is in the Xumi Paradise." The smile on the shopkeeper's face suddenly faded as he abruptly rustled his sleeve.

An incredible scene then ensued.

Brilliant five-colored light abruptly erupted from the scroll before transforming into a vast expanse of light that disappeared into the artwork on the wall.

The shopkeeper began to chant something while abruptly pointing a finger at the artwork on the wall.

The same five-colored spiritual light also flashed from the scroll before a swath of light emanated from it.

The five-colored light swept up everyone in the room at the shopkeeper's behest. Following a brief hesitation, Han Li relinquished his resistance in the end and allowed the light to enshroud his entire body, but he surreptitiously injected more power into the protective layer of spiritual light around him.

Following another flash of five-colored light, the room was completely devoid of any people.

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The piercing spiritual light receded, and when Han Li opened his eyes again, he found himself on a bluestone plaza with a series of buildings of different heights not far up ahead.

Han Li narrowed his eyes and discovered that these buildings were rather familiar. They were none other than the buildings depicted on the small mountain in the Xumi Paradise Scroll. After surveying his surroundings, he heaved a faint sigh of relief.

He was currently situated atop a small green mountain with blue skies and a few white clouds up above.

As expected, he had arrived in a space that was identical to the image on the Xumi Paradise Scroll. This space wasn't very large, looking as if it was only several kilometers in size, but it was surrounded by five-colored walls of light in all directions. The other three people had also arrived in this place not far away from him.

Han Li and the other two men were looking around with curiosity in their eyes, but the shopkeeper was not in the mood for sightseeing as he hovered directly toward the cluster of buildings up ahead.

Han Li's trio also rose up into the air to follow him.

"Brother Yu, this Xumi space appears to be completely perfect and intact without anything amiss. What is this flaw you were referring to?" the young man couldn't help but ask. "Hehe, do you think I'll disclose that information to you? It seems to have nothing to do with our deal," the shopkeeper said in a brusque voice as he rolled his eyes.

A hint of fury flashed through the young man's eyes upon hearing the shopkeeper's blunt response, but he forced a smile onto his face, and said, "Hehe, I was merely curious and I bear no ill will."

The shopkeeper harrumphed coldly, but didn't follow up with any further insults, presumably because he still had to enlist the young man's assistance in their upcoming task. After flashing through the air several more times, he appeared before a pavilion over 1,000 feet away before stopping in mid-air with his hands clasped behind his back. he pavilion was over 1,000 feet tall, and was split into three levels. The building was rather antiquated with a wide bottom that tapered to a point at the top.

"The spirit beast is in this building. Come with me and I'll show you the beast first," the shopkeeper instructed as Han Li's trio gathered around him. The shopkeeper then descended first, and Han Li's trio glanced at one another before following suit.

Rather than landing in front of the entrance on the first floor, the shopkeeper drifted over to a window on the second floor before stopping there. Han Li and the others found this to be rather strange, but they also headed to the same spot.

After looking in through the window, they were greeted by the sight of a murky silver barrier of light. The entire second floor had been sealed by a restriction.

The young man's eyes flashed, yet before he had a chance to say anything, a loud rumbling boom erupted, following which the silver light barrier tremored along with the entire pavilion.

Immediately thereafter, a string of thunderclaps erupted within the light barrier in rapid succession. Thunderclaps were the only sounds that the four could hear, and they felt as if they were situated in a world of furious lightning, causing their consciousness to drift in an unsettling manner.

Han Li was greatly startled by this development, and he immediately activated his Great Development Technique, thereby reinstating his clarity of mind in the blink of an eye. The shopkeeper and the others were all Spatial Tempering cultivators, so they also quickly recovered after unleashing their respective abilities. Even so, the young man and the armor-clad man's faces had paled significantly.

"This is the spirit beast you want to tame, Brother Yu?" the armor-clad man asked as he stared intently at the window.

"That's right. Rest assured, fellow Daoists, the spirit beast has been sealed, and you won't be in any danger before it's released." The shopkeeper wore a calm expression, but there was excitement shimmering in his eyes. He suddenly flipped over a hand, and a scroll appeared in his grasp following a flash of light. It was none other than that Xumi Paradise Scroll.

On this occasion, he didn't unfurl the scroll. Instead, he grabbed one end of the scroll while gently tapping the other end toward the light screen.

A peculiar turn of events immediately unfolded.

The light barrier beyond the wind suddenly shattered like glass before vanishing.

The shopkeeper then flapped his wings and entered the pavilion, leaving an afterimage in his wake.

The armor-clad man and young man immediately followed suit without any hesitation.

Han Li stroked his chin and contemplated the situation for a while before slowly drifting in through the window.

The entire pavilion tremored once again amid a resounding boom, and a burst of lightning-attribute spiritual pressure swept toward him like a physical wave.

Han Li's expression changed slightly, and he was almost unable to repress the urge to evade.

However, he remained in the same spot in mid-air and shielded himself using his Divine Essencefused Light in the end.

Only then did he get a chance to glean his surroundings.

The second floor of the pavilion was far more spacious than he'd imagined.

It had an area of 2,000 to 3,000 feet, making this place appear as if it were a small plaza. At the center of the cavernous room stood 81 thick copper poles, all of which were shimmering and engraved with all types of demons and monsters. These copper pillars surrounded an area in the center that was over 300 feet wide, and arcs of black lightning were crackling between the bowls amid rumbling thunderclaps, creating a massive prison-like restriction. Within the massive cage, a ball of black mist that was around 10 feet in size was surging erratically, and resounding thunderclaps rang out incessantly from within. Bolts of silver lightning shot forth occasionally from within the black mist, but they would disappear as soon as they struck the black net of lightning as if they'd met the bane of their existence.

"That's the lightning-attribute spirit beast in there?" The armor-clad man faltered slightly at the sight of the mundane ball of black mist within the cage. "What? Are you thinking that this spirit beast isn't so remarkable after all? This Lightning Beasts powers are far beyond what you can imagine," the shopkeeper chuckled coldly as he glanced at the armor-clad man out of the corners of his eyes.

"Lightning Beast?" Han Li murmured to himself with furrowed brows.

"That's right, that's the name of this spirit beast. I won't tell you about this Lightning Beast's origins, but what I can tell you is that there is most definitely only one of this Lightning Beast in this world." The shopkeeper stared intently at the cloud of black mist within the net of black lightning as a hint of deranged insanity appeared on his face."Really? Its attacks don't seem to be all that powerful." The young man's brows furrowed in skepticism.

"Attacks? This Lightning Beast isn't unleashing any attacks. The lightning you see is simply something that it was born with. Let me show you the true appearance and power of the Lightning Beast," the shopkeeper said with a derisive sneer on his face.

He suddenly raised a hand to send forth a streak of white light from within his sleeve. The streak of light surged through the air before striking the base of the thickest copper pole before up ahead.

The streak of white light was a snowy white little winged beast with spikes that were several inches long growing all over its body, making it appear as if it were a flying hedgehog.

However, a restriction of some sort had clearly been cast onto it as it was unable to fly at all after landing on the copper pillar, and it merely sprawled down onto the ground, trembling uncontrollably.

"That's an Inchlight Beast!" The armor-clad man and young man immediately identified this vicious beast that was vastly renowned within the Flying Spirit Race, and they were barely able to believe their eyes.

These little beasts were extremely ferocious, and they dared to engage even Spatial Tempering Stage beings in direct battle. Even though they were pack-dwelling beasts, all of them were extremely vicious. However, the one on the copper pillar was completely timid and docile, and that came as quite a surprise to the two of them.

Just as they were thinking this, a large azure hand suddenly rushed out from within the black mist, reaching toward the Inchlight Beast like lightning. Before the five fingers on the hand had even made contact with the little beast, arcs of silver lightning shot forth through the air. The little beast as completely motionless as it lay on the copper pillar, and as soon as the azure hand struck the black net of lightning, the little beast was sent flying by the force of the impact.

A low roar erupted from within the mist, and it was filled with unbridled fury. All of a sudden, a burst of piercing silver light radiated from within the black mist, following which a ball of rapidly expanded within the mist with something inside it. Moments later, all of the black mist had been completely dispelled by lightning, revealing a humanoid bird-like demon within the net of lightning.

The creature possessed the head of a dove and had azure skin. There was a pair of blue feathered wings on its back, and its upper body was that of a human while its lower body was that of a bird. A hammer and an awl were present on the respective ends of its arms, and its golden eyes were shimmering with a sinister light. Despite the vast knowledge and experience possessed by Han Li's trio, they still couldn't help but draw a sharp breath upon seeing the true appearance of this Lightning Beast.

Before they had a chance to recover from their shock, the Lightning Beast suddenly let loose a thunderous roar, following which white light flashed, and countless fist-sized balls of white lightning erupted forth.

Almost at the exact same moment, the Lightning Beast flapped its wings in unison, and hundreds of blue feathers shot forth at once. All of them then transformed into arcs of blue lightning that were around a foot in length each. The Lightning Beast then brought its hammer and awl together with a resounding boom, an extremely thick bolt of golden lightning hurtled forth from the pointy end of the awl, transforming into a golden lightning wyrm that swept through the air.

The Lightning Beast had unleashed three different types of lightning-attribute abilities in the blink of an eye, and all three of them appeared to be extremely powerful.

Han Li's trio were all startled to see this as they reflexively retreated. It didn't seem like the thin net of black lightning would be anywhere near sufficient to keep these three lightning-attribute attacks at bay. Only the shopkeeper remained on the spot with a confident smile on his face.

As soon as the three different types of lightning struck the net of black lightning, the 81 copper pillars suddenly buzzed in unison, and the thin net of lightning suddenly thickened by severalfold.

As such, it really was able to withstand the Lightning Beast's powerful attack.

The Lightning Beast let loose a thunderous roar of rage as its golden eyes stared intently at the Inchlight Beast, but it seemed to possess some intelligence as it unleashed no further attacks. "Don't worry, this Lightning Binding Light Formation was something I set up after expending an immense amount of effort, and it can specifically restrict this beast's lightning-attribute powers. This Lightning Beast may be powerful, but there's no way that it can struggle free," the shopkeeper chuckled as he suddenly swept a hand toward the Inchlight Beast from afar.

The little beast instantly transformed into a burst of white light and was sent through the black lightning without any impediment, thus landing right before the Lightning Beast.

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As soon as the Inchlight Beast appeared before it, the Lightning Beast opened its beak without any hesitation and swallowed the little beast that was completely powerless to resist. It then let loose a low roar of satisfaction before its body instantly shrank. At the same time, a layer of black mist erupted from nearby to completely obscure it from view.

Within the restriction, everything had reverted back to the exact same scene that Han Li and the others had originally witnessed.

"What kind of spirit beast is this Lightning Beast? I've read countless ancient tomes, but I've never seen any description of a beast that fits this one," the young man asked with an astonished look in his eyes.

"Didn't I tell you that this beast's origins are very unique, and that it'd be best if you didn't ask about it? All you have to do is help me tame it." The shopkeeper's words seemed to carry a warning.

The young man's expression changed slightly, and he raised no further questions.

A hint of a peculiar light flashed through Han Li's eyes as he suddenly said, "You said that this beast is unique in the Spirit Realm, so can I interpret that as an admission that this beast does not hail from the Spirit Realm?"

The shopkeeper's expression changed drastically upon hearing this, but he immediately forced a smile onto his face as he replied, "What nonsense are you spouting, Brother Han? If this beast isn't something from the Spirit Realm, then how could it have appeared here?"

Despite the shopkeeper's denial, all three men could tell that he was trying to hide something, and they couldn't help but glance at one another with surprise in their eyes.

"If this Lightning Beast isn't from the Spirit Realm, then could it be a spirit beast that's unique to one of the lower realms? Wait, no, this beast is clearly no less powerful than a Spatial Tempering being, so there's no way it could exist in a lower realm. In that case, it has to be from a higher realm; it must be from the legendary True Immortal Realm!" the young man completely disregarded the shopkeeper's warning as he mused.

The armor-clad man's eyes also gradually lit up as he stared at the black mist within the restriction.

However, the shopkeeper seemed to be relieved that they arrived at this conclusion, and a peculiar look appeared on his face as he said, "So you truly believe that this spirit beast is from the True Immortal Realm?"

"Are we wrong? Even if it isn't from the True Immortal Realm, I still think you should reveal its origins to us, seeing as you want us to help you tame it, Brother Yu. Perhaps a better understanding of this beast will be helpful to us in our attempt to subdue it. If you really don't want to reveal anything, then we won't force you to. We'll just have to regard it as a spirit beast from the True Immortal Realm," the young man sighed.

"You dare to threaten me?" The shopkeeper's expression instantly darkened.

The young man took a half-step backward in retreat, but his expression remained calm as he said, "Even if the three of us were to join forces, we'd still be no match for you, so I certainly wouldn't dare to threaten you, Brother Yu. However, don't forget that my elder brother is the youngest elder of the Tian Peng Race. I'm sure you won't do something reckless that you'll regret later on."

Both Han Li and the armor-clad man were both surprised to hear that the young man was the brother of a Tian Peng Race elder, and both of them were forced to look at him through new eyes.

A hint of wariness flashed through the shopkeeper's eyes, and after a moment of indecision, he finally said in a cold voice, "I suppose there's no harm in telling you the origins of this beast. It's not something that has to be kept strictly confidential anyway, and it would prevent you three from spinning any more ridiculous yarns. The reason why this Lightning Beast is unique in this world is because it was artificially created by me through gathering the power of lightning, then nurturing it using a secret technique. It is a lightning spirit born from lightning itself, and I've spent most of my life attempting to create one with only this one resulting in success, so it's naturally unique to this world."

"A lightning spirit?" Everyone's eyes widened upon hearing this.

"How is that possible? Even the legendary Spirit Tribe hasn't been able to nurture a living being from lightning. You may be an extremely powerful cultivator, but surely this is beyond even your capabilities, Brother Yu," the young man said with a skeptical expression after recovering from his initial shock.

Han Li and the armor-clad man's brows also furrowed tightly.

Much to everyone's surprise, the shopkeeper conceded in the end, and revealed, "Hehe, I certainly wouldn't have been able to achieve this through my own research alone, but many years ago, when I was traveling through the territories of several foreign races, I was passing through a place where a certain powerful being had fallen, and I just so happened to stumble upon a spirit beast nurturing secret technique that was passed down from the True Immortal Realm. This Lightning Beast nurturing secret technique was the only complete technique that was recorded."

After a brief pause, the young man's demeanor suddenly shifted drastically as he smiled, and said, "If it's a secret technique that was passed down from the True Spirit Realm, then this is indeed quite plausible. Apologies for my rudeness, Brother Yu."The armor-clad man was also stroking his chin and clicking his tongue with wonder.

The shopkeeper wore an expression of displeasure on his face, and merely harrumphed coldly in response.

Meanwhile, Han Li was scrutinizing the Lightning Beast within the restriction with a hint of intrigue in his eyes.

He didn't know whether the shopkeeper had told the truth, but this beast truly was capable of wielding astonishing lighting power, so even if it wasn't a spirit born from lightning itself, it was still a vastly powerful spirit beast.

However, even if it possessed Spatial Tempering Stage power and was capable of wielding lightning, that still definitely wasn't worth the immense investment the shopkeeper hade made to tame it. After all, just the three items that he'd promised to Han Li's trio was definitely not inferior in value to a Spatial Tempering Stage spirit beast, and that wasn't even taking into account all of the time and effort he'd expended to nurture this Lightning Beast in the first place.

It appeared this beast either possessed more abilities than it had just displayed or it served an extremely important purpose to the shopkeeper. Otherwise, there was no way that he would sacrifice so much to tame it.

Not only was Han Li aware of this, the armor-clad man and the young man were had also figured this out for themselves.

However, all three of them simply wanted the treasured they were promised, and they were also fearful toward the shopkeeper's fearsome cultivation base, so they could only pretend to be oblivious.

The origins of and uses for this strange Spatial Tempering Stage spirit beast were both rather sketchy, but it wasn't worth offending the shopkeeper just to get to the bottom of things.

"Alright, everything that needs to be said has been said, let's get down to business. I'm going to use the restriction to temporarily immobilize the Lightning Beast; all you three have to do is enter the cage and inject your lightning powers into its body. Remember to keep going until I tell you to stop. Otherwise, all of your prior efforts could go to waste," the shopkeeper announced in an implacable tone.

Han Li's trio expressed no further objections on this occasion.

The shopkeeper nodded before rustling his sleeve, upon which the Xumi Paradise Scroll appeared in his hand once again. This time, he tossed the scroll forward, and it immediately unfurled before him.

Five-colored spiritual light flashed as the artwork of the Xumi Paradise was revealed to everyone again.

The shopkeeper began to chant something before pointing a finger quickly toward a certain spot on the piece of artwork.

Blue light flashed deep within Han Li's eyes, and he was instantly able to glean what the shopkeeper was doing.

The spot that he had pointed to was none other than the tall pavilion that they were currently situated in.

In the next instant, brilliant white light erupted from the artwork, and a burst of white mist suddenly appeared. Within the mist, the walls on the first and second floors of the pavilion slowly backed away before vanishing.

Han Li's expression changed slightly, yet before he could figure out what those changes entailed, tremors suddenly ran through the ground beneath his feet. The actual pavilion that they were situated in tremored violently as white light radiated from the walls around them. They then backed away before disappearing into nothingness.

In the blink of an eye, everyone was situated under the blue sky along with the Lightning Beast. The ground of the pavilion underfoot had also been transformed into a bare plaza.

The black mist within the restriction surged erratically, clearly indicating that the Lightning Beast had also been alerted by these changes.

Han Li stroked his chin while the young man and the armor-clad man glanced at each with surprise in their eyes.

Right at this moment, the shopkeeper let loose a low cry, and a crimson arrow shot forth from within his mouth. The arrow disappeared in a flash into the scroll he was holding, and a loud thunderclap suddenly erupted high up in the sky, following which howling winds were swept up around them.

Arcs of silver lightning peeked through the dark clouds amid an incessant burst of rumbling, and it appeared as if a powerful devil were about to descend upon this world.

Before Han Li's trio had a chance to ask, the shopkeeper took the initiative and provided an explanation for a change. "In the past failed experiences, the power of lightning that the three of you possess is most likely insufficient for the task. As such, I've activated all of the world's origin Qi within this Xumi Paradise Scroll to manifest the power of heavenly lightning in order to assist you three. After this, the scroll will most likely be ruined, so this is my final roll of the dice. I hope the three of you can help me to the best of your abilities, and if you can help me successfully tame this beast, not only will I give you your promised rewards, I'll also throw in a large sum of spirit stones for each of you."

The shopkeeper spoke in a very solemn and serious voice.

Han Li's trio was elated to hear this, and all of them expressed their willingness to do everything in their power.

The shopkeeper nodded in response before abruptly flapping his wings toward the scroll before him. A swath of white light immediately surged forth, sweeping up the Xumi Paradise Scroll within it.

The scroll rotated within the white light before countless runes of different colors suddenly appeared on its surface. In the end, following a rumbling boom, it transformed into a five-colored pillar of light that disappeared into the dark clouds up above.

An incredible scene then ensued.

After a bout of tumbling and surging, an earthshattering thunderclap suddenly erupted within the dark clouds. Immediately thereafter, an extremely vibrant bolt of five-colored lightning that was as thick as a large bowl shot appeared before flashing through the clouds like a massive five-colored python.

"Five-colored heavenly tribulation?" the armor-clad man exclaimed in alarm as the sight of this five-colored lightning.

"There's no need for panic. This isn't the true five-colored heavenly lightning that appears during a tribulation transcendence for Flying Spirit True Monarchs; it's merely something I've simulated using a wisp of the world's origin Qi, and it possesses less than a thousandth of the power of true five-colored heavenly lightning," the shopkeeper consoled in a calm voice.

Han Li and the young man also wore horrified looks on their faces but their expressions eased after hearing this.

However, there was still a hint of shock in Han Li's eyes as he looked up at the five-colored lightning in the sky.

This five-colored heavenly lightning was rumored to be tribulation lightning for cultivators of the Grand Ascension Stage, and even purple-golden tribulation lightning for Body Integration cultivators couldn't even hold a candle to its extraordinary power.

Even if it possessed only thousandths of the power of actual five-colored heavenly lightning, it could still quite possibly be capable of killing anyone of Han Li's trio.

At this moment, the shopkeeper could no longer pay any heed to Han Li and the others. He was busy casting incantation seals toward the 81 copper pillars up ahead.

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All of the pillars emitted a burst of ringing before balls of white light surfaced above them, manifesting a series of sinister dragon heads. All of these dragon heads then opened their mouths to blast forth arcs of black lightning.

A low roar suddenly erupted within the mist as a ball of silver light hurtled forth. Following a flash of light, the Lightning Beast had appeared in a corner of the net of lightning. However, those black arcs of lightning seemed to have locked onto the Lightning Beast as they all changed directions to compensate for its movement.

The Lightning Beast let loose a roar of fury, but it was clearly extremely fearful of these arcs of black lightning, as evidenced by the fact that it was desperately attempting to evade them.

Thus, a ball of silver light began to spring from one spot in the restriction to another in a wraith-like manner, but the tens of arcs of black lightning followed it relentlessly in hot pursuit.

All of a sudden, loud thunderclaps rang out within the restriction, and the shopkeeper also began to chant something again.

The black arcs of lightning accelerated even further, leaving trails of afterimages in their wake and enshrouding the entire space within the restriction in black lightning.

Han Li looked on with a slightly awestruck expression.

He didn't know what kind of lightning ability these black arcs of lightning were, but they were astonishingly fast. If he were trapped within that restriction, he wouldn't be able to evade for long even with his Thunderstorm Wings.

This Lightning Beast was quite proficient in lightning movement techniques, but it most likely wouldn't be able to last much longer, either.

Just as he'd expected, only a short while had passed by before the ball of silver light was struck by several arcs of black lightning at once.

The Lightning Beast's body was forcibly revealed in mid-air amid a howl of anguish, and it was convulsing spasmodically. As such, all of the other arcs of black lightning also converged and struck it as well.

A thunderous roar of rage erupted from the Lightning Beast's beak as crimson, white, blue, and golden lightning erupted from its body at once in a desperate attempt to keep the black lightning at bay.

The shopkeeper's eyes lit up upon seeing this, and the took a deep breath before striding forward, then slamming his palm into a copper pillar in front of him.

All of a sudden, bursts of white spiritual power flower from his palm into the copper pillar in a frenzy.

The thin arcs of lightning being blasted from the dragon heads up above immediately thickened by around twofold amid a rumbling boom.

On the other end, the Lightning Beast was finally unable to resist any longer in the face of the fearsome black lightning, and it plummeted toward the ground as the four different types of lightning around its body became extremely dull and lusterless.

Meanwhile, the black arcs of lightning in the sky formed a series of black chains that bound the Lightning Beast tightly, thereby completely immobilizing it.

"Alright, you can all go in now, Fellow Daoists," the shopkeeper announced.

He then immediately withdrew his palm from the copper pillar before casting an incantation seal onto it.

The copper pillar tremored before the massive net of lightning crumbled and vanished.

Han Li's trio glanced at one another before flying into the cage as streaks of spiritual light without any hesitation. The three of them situated themselves around 10 feet away from the bound Lightning Beast, not daring to get too close to it.

Meanwhile, the shopkeeper himself also appeared beside Han Li and the others in a flash.

"I'm going to use a secret technique to lock away the source of lightning within this beast's body. The three of you, listen for my signal, then inject your powers of lightning into the beast's body," the shopkeeper quickly instructed.

He then flipped his hand over to produce five pitch-black daggers.

The daggers were very light, as if they had been made from wood.

However, both the armor-clad man and the young man's expressions changed drastically upon seeing this. "Blackstar Daggers!"

Despite their obvious astonishment, neither of them asked any questions this time, and the shopkeeper didn't provide any explanation, either, so Han Li was left wondering what these daggers could be.

Several streaks of black light flashed through the air, and the five daggers embedded themselves into the Lightning Beast's limbs and heart.

The Lightning Beast let loose an earthshattering roar as it thrashed violently within the black chains. Not a single drop of blood seeped out of its stab wounds.

Spiritual light swirled around the five daggers, following which the Lightning Beast's eyes glazed over, and the four types of lightning around its body finally disappeared.

The shopkeeper blasted forth another ball of white light from his mouth upon seeing this. This was only a fist-sized rhomboid white crystal, but it was imbued with astonishing spiritual pressure, and Han Li's eyes narrowed as he looked on from the side.

In contrast with high-grade cultivators of the human race, high-grade beings of the Flying Spirit Race didn't have Nascent Souls. Instead, they had crystal cores, and those cores were just as important to them as Nascent Souls were to human cultivators.

The shopkeeper threw up a large mouthful of blood essence onto the crystal core before pointing a finger at it in a solemn manner.

The core immediately began to descend and disappeared into the Lightning Beast's head in a flash.

Almost at the exact same moment, the shopkeeper yelled, "Go!"

Han Li and the others immediately sprung into action.

Han Li rubbed his hands together, and arcs of golden lightning surfaced between his palms.

The armor-clad man opened his mouth, and white lightning could be seen shimmering within. As for the young man, he flapped his wings, and arcs of silver lightning appeared over those wings.

A resounding boom erupted as all three types of lightning struck the Lightning Beast's body in unison.

A peculiar scene unfolded.

Han Li's Divine Devilbane Lightning and the lightning unleashed by the other two cultivators were all drawn into the five black daggers upon coming into contact with the Lightning Beast's body.

Layers of black light then appeared over the five daggers before transforming into arcs of black lightning that disappeared soundlessly into the Lightning Beast's body.

The young man and the armor-clad man both faltered upon seeing this, but their lightning output did not cease.

Thus, the black light shimmering from the five daggers became more and more piercing, and the daggers themselves began to tremor slightly.

Han Li cast his glance toward the shopkeeper to find that he was seated off to the side with his legs crossed and his eyes closed while making a strange hand seal, seemingly unleashing some kind of secret technique.

Bright white light was radiating around his body, clearly an indication that he was unleashing all of his spiritual power to its maximal extent.

Han Li couldn't ascertain what he was doing, so he withdrew his gaze and focused on maintaining his Divine Devilbane Lightning output.

After a while, the daggers had absorbed a vast amount of lightning, but they did nothing other than continue to tremor.

However, the shopkeeper's face had become extremely pale, and sweat had begun to bead on his forehead. Furthermore, veins were bulging on his forehead as well as on his neck, making it appear as if he were going through intense exertion. Even the spiritual light around his body had dimmed slightly.

Meanwhile, the projection of a fist-sized white crystal had appeared on his glabella. The projection was flashing erratically, and it was none other than his crystal core.

After some more time had passed, all of the color had drained from the shopkeeper's face, and he suddenly rasped, "Increase your lightning output!"

Han Li's trio were all rather disgruntled by this instruction.

This prolonged period of lightning output had exhausted close to half of their lightning power. If they were to increase their output, they wouldn't be able to last very long.

However, they could all hear the resolute and implacable tone in the shopkeeper's voice, so all of them did as they were instructed after only a brief hesitation.

Thus, loud thunderclaps erupted as the three different types of lightning virtually inundated the Lightning Beast's entire body.

Through their increased lightning output, the five daggers embedded within the Lightning Beast's body finally began to display some changes.

The daggers gradually turned a shade of vibrant red, as if they were sucking blood.

At this moment, the projection of the crystal core on the shopkeeper's glabella also took on a crimson hue, and it also began to expand and shrink in an erratic manner.

After letting loose a low cry, the shopkeeper abruptly opened his eyes to blast forth another item from his mouth.

It was a green wooden badge with layers of complex patterns all over its surface, giving it a rather mysterious appearance.

As soon as the wooden badge appeared, it flashed over to the Lightning Beast's head.

A plume of thin green threads shot forth from within the badge before disappearing into the Lightning Beast's head in a flash.

The unconscious Lightning Beast shuddered and as the wooden badge buzzed gently, a portion of a miniature green Lightning Beast projection was drawn out of the Lightning Beast's body by the countless green threads.

An elated look appeared on the shopkeeper's face, and he began to make hand seals while chanting something in a soundless manner at the same time.

The buzzing from the wooden badge intensified as the Lightning Beast projection continued to be forcibly dragged out of its body little by little.

All of a sudden, golden light flashed within the Lightning Beast's lusterless eyes. An explosive thunderclap erupted from its body, and the five black daggers were almost completely extricated amid a loud boom.

The four different types of lightning surfaced over the Lightning Beast's body again.

The shopkeeper's heart jolted with shock, yet before he had a chance to do anything else, piercing green light erupted from the projection of the Lightning Beast as it disappeared into its body again. At the same time, the Lightning Beast let loose another thunderous roar, and the arcs of lighting all over its body intensified in power as it struggled and thrashed with all its might.

An expression of shock and fury appeared on the shopkeeper's face as he hurriedly turned to Han Li's trio, and asked, "Can you increase your lightning output any further."

"No, I'm already at my limit." The young man's face was also rather pale.

"I won't be able to, either." The armor-clad man appeared to be in slightly better condition, but he also expressed an inability to offer any further output.

As for Han Li, he merely shook his head in response.

The shopkeeper was slightly disappointed to hear this, but he then immediately gritted his teeth as he said, "Alright, looks like we'll have to take the risk, then. Maintain your current lightning output, and I'll bring the five-colored lightning down on this beast. With its power, we have a very good chance at success."

Han Li and the others' expressions changed slightly upon hearing this, but none of them objected to this course of action in the end.

Thus, the shopkeeper paid no further heed to the struggling Lightning Beast as he flapped his wings and slowly rose up into the air.

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After flying into the air until he was over 1,000 feet away from the dark clouds in the sky, the shopkeeper came to an abrupt halt before expelling a mouthful of blood essence with a solemn look on his face.

He then pointed his 10 fingers at the blood essence in rapid succession, upon which they transformed into several large blood runes that hurtled toward the five-colored lightning in the sky. The runes then disappeared into the five-colored lightning in a flash. The arc of lightning immediately emitted a resounding boom as the dark clouds around it were dispelled. Thus, the five-colored lightning's intimidating true form was revealed in its full glory.

The shopkeeper looked up at the fearsome arc of lightning, and he couldn't help but gulp nervously, even though his mouth was completely dry. He gritted his teeth and expelled a few more mouthfuls of blood essence, all of which also disappeared into the five-colored lightning as crimson runes.

Having expended so much blood essence in one go, the shopkeeper's face was now truly as pale as a sheet of paper. However, his final roll of the dice appeared to be paying off.

Following the injection of the blood runes, the five-colored lightning in the sky finally settled down. Not only had the thunderclaps emanating from it become a lot quieter, the scintillating light radiating from it had also softened significantly. Crimson lines appeared all over the arc of lightning, creating quite a peculiar sight to behold. The shopkeeper was ecstatic upon seeing this, and the chanted something before abruptly flapping his wings upward. Countless crimson threads shot forth from his wings, puncturing the arc of five-colored lightning in a flash and fusing as one with the crimson lines on its surface, thereby ensnaring the arc of lightning within. The shopkeeper made a hand seal, and piercing white light radiated from his body as one incantation seal after another was cast into the air above.

The five-colored lightning rumbled within the crimson threads for a while before shrinking and curling together to form a massive ball of lightning with a diameter of around 10 feet. The surface of the ball was riddled with crimson lines, and the shopkeeper was overjoyed to see this. He swept a hand toward the fearsome ball of lightning, and it descended in an obedient manner. Han Li and the others were all flabbergasted by the scenes unfolding before their eyes. However, the shopkeeper didn't give them a chance to ask any questions. His body swayed, and he abruptly disappeared on the spot.

In the next instant, spatial fluctuations erupted as the shopkeeper appeared beside the Lightning Beast. He quickly raised both hands into the air, and two thick pillars of light immediately shot forth, disappearing into a massive ball of lightning, which was currently only several hundred feet away from the ground. As a result, the ball of lightning paused in mid-air.

At such close quarters, Han Li's trio could sense the terrifying power imbued within the ball of five-colored lightning, and their expressions changed drastically.

Thankfully, the ball of lightning had been stabilized in mid-air by the shopkeeper. Otherwise, all three of them would've immediately fled the scene. They certainly weren't going to stand still and allow themselves to be killed.

The shopkeeper had no spare capacity to pay any heed to what Han Li and the others were thinking. As soon as he stabilized the ball of five-colored lightning, he let loose a loud cry, and a small slit suddenly opened up on the crimson line at the bottom of the lightning ball. Following a dull thunderclap, a thin bolt of five-colored lightning shot forth, heading directly toward the Lightning Beast down below.

In the instant that the ball of five-colored lightning appeared, the Lightning Beast seemed to have sensed that it was in severe peril. It roared and thrashed with all its might, managing to struggle free from some of the black chains around its body and rising to its feet. However, before it had a chance to do anything else, the five-colored arc of lightning struck the top of its head with unerring accuracy. The Lightning Beast was floored before it could utter even a single sound...

The shopkeeper was ecstatic to see this, one bolt of five-colored lightning fell after another at his behest. At the same time, he made a hand seal, and the green wooden badge above the Lightning Beast blasted forth another plume of green threads.

On this occasion, with the combined powers of Han Li's trio along with the arcs of five-colored lightning, the miniature Lightning Beast projection was drawn out of the beast's body again in a fit of shock and fury.

The projection struggled with all its might, but its lightning powers had mostly been sealed by the five black daggers and its physical body was being immobilized by Han Li's trio and the five-colored lightning, so it was powerless to resist as it was forcibly drawn toward the wooden badge inch by inch.

Green light flashed from the wooden badge, and following a final roar of fury and despair, the Lightning Beast projection was drawn into the badge. The shopkeeper hurriedly cast one incantation seal after another onto the wooden badge in quick succession, and it was drawn into his grasp as an elated look appeared on his face.

"Haha, I've finally done it!" the shopkeeper chortled with glee.

Han Li's eyes flashed, and the golden arcs of lightning streaming from his hands disappeared.

The young man also withdrew his lightning before looking at the motionless body of the Lightning Beast on the ground, then turning to the green badge in the shopkeeper's hand with furrowed brows. "What's the meaning of this, Brother Yu? Weren't you going to tame this beast?"

That was also what Han Li and the armor-clad man wanted to ask.

"Hehe, after extracting the soul of the beast, taming it would be a piece of cake, so three of you can rest now," the shopkeeper chuckled as he carefully stowed the green badge away into a jade box with a delighted expression on his face.

Han Li and the others glanced at one another, and all of them fell silent as wary expressions appeared on their faces. Something was most definitely amiss here.

"Rest assured, seeing as you three assisted me greatly in this endeavor, I'll be delivering the rewards I promised you now," the shopkeeper said with a smile before sweeping a sleeve through the air. Three streaks of white light shot forth toward Han Li's trio, and they were none other than the three wooden boxes from earlier.

The young man and the armor-clad man were still a little perplexed, but they were overjoyed to see their promised rewards being delivered. As such, they immediately cast aside their concerns and reached out for their respective wooden box.

However, piercing blue light suddenly flashed from Han Li's eyes upon seeing this. Immediately thereafter, a set of golden and silver robes appeared over his body before enshrouding the oncoming wooden box within. Meanwhile, Han Li himself hurtled back in retreat.

The young man's expression changed slightly upon seeing Han Li's actions, and he immediately realized that something was wrong. However, it was already too late.

White light flashed and the wooden box in his hand suddenly crumbled like a sandcastle, revealing a translucent thumb-sized bead.

"Lightning Drawing Bead!" the young man exclaimed in alarm before attempting to fling it away.

However, a thunderclap erupted before he could do so, and a ball of piercing white light appeared amid a loud explosion.

There was still a small portion of the five-colored ball of lightning hovering in mid-air, and as soon as the white light appeared, it split up into three arcs of lightning that crashed down from above.

The lightning was far too fast to evade, and the young man, as well as the armor-clad man, were instantly struck by the five-colored lightning and white light.

The two powers combined as one and when the light receded, the two were revealed with smoke billowing from their bodies, and it was unknown whether they were dead or alive.

As for Han Li, his lightning robes had enshrouded the Lightning Drawing Bead before the bead exploded, following which the white light was absorbed into the robe, then flung away into the distance. As such, the bolt of five-colored lightning was diverted away, and struck the ground around 10 feet away from its original target. The entire ground tremored, and a crater with a radius of several tens of feet was left on the ground in the wake of the lightning strike.

Han Li had retreated right to the edge of the crater, and he arrested his momentum before looking up at the shopkeeper in an expressionless manner. "Hmm?" The man's smile faded as a hint of surprise appeared on his face. However, his surprised expression was then immediately replaced by a deriding sneer.

Han Li's eyes flashed, and he suddenly flapped his Thunderstorm Wings before disappearing into space as an arc of azure and white lightning.

Almost at the exact same moment, a pair of green claws swiped past the spot where Han Li had just been standing, unleashing crimson arcs of lightning that flashed through the air.

The physical body of the Lightning Beast that had been bound by the black chains had sprung into action, and attempted to launch a sneak attack against Han Li from behind. The only difference was that the Lightning Beast now had a pair of gleaming black eyes that were filled with intelligence. A hint of surprise reappeared on the shopkeeper's face upon witnessing the failure of the Lightning Beast's sneak attack.

However, his body then swayed as he made a soundless retreat.

Right at this moment, a thunderclap rang out above his head as Han Li emerged from within a burst of azure and white lightning. As soon as he appeared, he swept a sleeve toward the nearby copper pillars.

Several streaks of piercing golden light shot forth, slicing a few pillars into several segments and destroying the entire restriction. The shopkeeper's retreating figure instantly faltered in mid-air as he looked on with a dark expression. Han Li crossed his arms and also hovered in mid-air in silence.

At this moment, the Lightning Beast appeared expressionless behind Han Li with four-colored lightning crackling around its body, sandwiching Han Li between itself the shopkeeper.

"I don't care what your intentions are. I don't care whether you actually wanted to tame this beast or whether you were only interested in its soul; as long as you give me what I want, I can pretend that I saw nothing here," Han Li said in a calm voice.

"You're just a mere Flying Spirit General; do you think you have the right to negotiate terms with me?" the shopkeeper asked in a sinister voice.

"If you were at full health, then perhaps I wouldn't be able to do anything. However, after expelling so many mouthfuls of blood essence in succession earlier, you'd be lucky to have retained even a small half of your cultivation base. Do you really think a spirit beast that's yet to reach full maturity can keep me here?" Han Li said in a nonchalant voice as he suddenly swept a hand over his wrist. A streak of black light immediately shot forth, spiraling through the air before transforming into a small monkey.

The monkey then pounded its chest, and its body swelled drastically to several hundred feet tall in the blink of an eye. At the same time, it had taken on the form of a sinister ghost and was glowering at the Lightning Beast with a ferocious light in its eyes.

Brilliant golden light simultaneously radiated from Han Li's body as 72 small golden swords hurtled through the air, revolving around his body. His golden Provenance True Devil Projection had also appeared behind him, thus conjuring up three heads and six arms. He then flipped both hands over at the same time, and one hand was inky black with a miniature black mountain hovering over its palm, while the other was as pristine white as jade with five miniature skulls revolving over its palm.

After that, Han Li gently flapped his wings, and azure light revolved around his body, manifesting the projections of a massive azure bird and a five-colored heavenly phoenix. In conjunction with the Provenance True Devil Projection, all three projections had appeared at once, emanating a collective burst of astonishing spiritual pressure.

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The cold smirk on the shopkeeper's face vastly changed.

With his cultivation, he was able to sense the immense power of the projections behind him as well as the incisiveness of the glowing treasures. The Weeping Soul Beast's sinister ghost form was a clear threat as well from its huge size and appearance.

After a moment of silence, the shopkeeper harshly shouted, "Who are you? I know a bit of the outstanding disciples of the Tian Peng Race, but none are as outstanding as you."

Han Li stared at the shopkeeper and indifferently said, "Who I am isn't important. What is important is how you feel about my proposal? Your cultivation has dropped from late Great Spirit General stage to early stage. Even if you are keeping any contingency plans, I am half certain I will defeat you. However, I am not interested in a life or death battle. So long as you give me what I want, I will immediately go away."

When the shopkeeper heard this, he sized Han Li up. Then after a moment of hesitation, he wryly chuckled.

The shopkeeper pursed his lips and probingly said, "Good, very good. The strength you revealed does give you the qualifications to say that. But it is a pity. Even if I agree, I have no Azure Sifting Fruits to give you. The treasures you saw in the box was an illusion and was produced the secret technique that is unique to our Pentaluster Race. You should've had some doubts about it."

"Hehe, an illusion technique! I cultivate a technique that can see through illusions. However, the thing I want is in that box. No matter how formidable your illusion techniques are, if you didn't have that item, you wouldn't be able to create such believable illusions." Han Li said with a deep tone.

"You want that item?" The shopkeeper said with a surprised face.

"That's right! It can't be considered too steep a price." Han Li smiled.

"If you want it, I'll give it to you." Without taking any time to consider, the shopkeeper promptly flipped his hand to produce a wooden box and tossed it over.

Blue light flashed from Han Li's eyes and he reached out for it.

A wave of blue mist flew out and wrapped around the box, suspending it in the air.

Han Li swept his spiritual sense past it and he opened it with a trace of joy on his face.

A wave of medicinal scent assailed his nose and he saw the Azure Sifting Fruit.

Han Li silently opened his mouth and spat out a cloud of blood essence, instantly sweeping over the wooden box.

A rainbow light flashed from the box, and the emerald green fruit began to shrink like an illusion. In the blink of an eye, it turned into a crimson fruit the size of a thumb.

The box didn't contain an Azure Sifting Fruit, but another.

When the shopkeeper saw the joy on Han Li's face, he felt some relief and smiled, saying, "Many years ago in a dangerous depth, I unintentionally acquired an Azure Sifting Fruit. In order to rear the Lightning Beast, I used it for medicine. Otherwise, I definitely would've given it to you.

This is the fruit's pit, but it isn't worth much and it is very different from the fruit's body. But I won't let you take a loss. I'll give you several top-grade spirit stones as compensation."

Afterwards, he shook his sleeve and launched an azure leather pouch through the air.

Han Li raised his brow. Rather than rashly catching it, grey light swept out from his back and wrapped the pouch in Divine Essensefused Light.

The grey light suspended the pouch in the air as it harmlessly twirled in place.

Han Li instantly swept his spiritual sense into the pouch and faintly raised his lip, "In that case, I'll accept your offer."

In a gust of wind, the pouch vanished and Han Li put away the fruit core in the box.

The shopkeeper's face faintly changed when he saw Han Li's strange display, but it was soon replaced with a smile, "Brother Han's abilities are truly unordinary. What does Brother Han plan on doing next?"

Han Li leisurely said, "Since I've acquired what I want, I won't involve myself with you any further. But if it is possible, I hope you'll hand over the other two to me. After all, we've come here together. If they disappear, it will be difficult for me to explain to the Tian Peng Race. As for what happens next, you'll most likely be unable to stay in the holy city."

Not finding Han Li's words odd, the shopkeeper softly chuckled and said, "I can do that. However, their character is rather poor. Since they didn't acquire what they wanted and suffered a loss, I fear they wouldn't be appeased. Wouldn't it be better for everyone if they were gone?"

"Although I'd like that as well, I have matters tying me to the Tian Peng Race for some time. I'll also think of a way to appease them." Han Li answered with a casual tone.

"Since Brother Han had said this, I'll leave them to you."

At nearly the same time, four-colored lightning flashed around the Lightning Beast and disappeared from Han Li's back. A short moment later, thunder sounded behind the shopkeeper.

As Han Li looked at the Lightning Beast, a flash of realization appeared from his eyes. "It seems Senior didn't plan on taming the beast, but rather use it as an external incarnation."

The shopkeeper chuckled and vaguely said, "Brother Han saw through it."

Han Li smirked and through to say something else when a humming sound filled the air. The black cloud the shopkeeper summoned had been scattered by a gale. The entire sky was shining faintly yellow and a soft cry sounded from the air.

The nearby space had begun to warp.

Han Li narrowed his eyes.

The skinny man glanced around and ground, "That's the Xumi Paradise's worldly essence Qi. Its already reached its limit and it will soon scatter. Let's quickly leave."

"Yes, I'll have to trouble Senior Yu to open the way." Han Li promptly agreed.

"Hehe, you flatter!" The shopkeeper ironically said. He swept his eyes past the rainbow phoenix on Han Li's back.

Soon after, he muttered to himself a moment and he grabbed at the air.

Rainbow light flickered and a scroll appeared with glowing light.

The scroll spread out and a pillar of light rushed out from it.

A three-meter-tall light gate appeared in front of them, revealing a mist of white light behind it, as if it led to paradise.

Han Li's expression stirred and his shoulders shook, releasing two waves of grey light, sweeping up an unconscious large man and youth on the ground. The Weeping Soul Beast transformed into a human-tall black ape and stood behind him.

Seeing that Han Li collected the large man and the youth, a fierce look appeared from the shopkeeper's eyes, but he eventually decided to take no action. He simply called out, "Brother Han, let's go."

The two blurred and flew through the light gate one after another.

Han Li's surroundings lit up for a moment and he found himself in the shopkeeper's residence. It was normal as if nothing had happened.

On the wall behind them was the Xumi Paradise painting.

Han Li felt his heart relax.

With his abilities, he had nothing to truly fear from the shopkeeper, but he was no ordinary Great Spirit General-grade being. With his bizarre secret techniques, Han Li was unwilling to have a true fight to the death with him.

A crackle then sounded and the ancient painting trembled. It silently turned to ash.

Han Li's heart jumped and his face stirred.

When the shopkeeper saw this, he wore a sad expression. It was clear he was saddened by the treasure's destruction.

Having smoothly returned to his residence, he bluntly said, "From your actions, I would think you aren't a very meddlesome person. I'll leave those two to you. As I am injured, I won't be seeing you out."

Han Li gave him a quick salute, showing no intention of staying there any longer, and he shook his sleeve, withdrawing the Weeping Soul Beast before walking out in a blur.

Behind Han Li were two clouds of grey light, pulling along the youth and the black-armored man.

From a distance, it looked as if the two were flying closely behind Han Li.

When the shopkeeper saw Han Li and company leave, his smile faded.

At that moment, two of his subordinates walked in from the outside and respectfully stood to the side.

One of them carefully asked, "Martial Ancestor, are you truly leaving those three alone? Will they not cause trouble?"

The shopkeeper snorted, "What trouble could they bring? Even if they come back, they won't find anyone here. Let's tidy up our things and use the underground teleportation formation. We're leaving the holy city immediately. We can't stay with the Tian Peng anymore, only the Pentaluster Race will do. With the identity I prepared in the Pentaluster Race, no one will come find me."

"Yes, Ancestor!" With the shopkeeper's order, the two Tian Peng beings raised no objections and immediately acknowledged him.

The two quickly entered the other rooms.

The shopkeeper stood in place and looked at the large door. A dark expression briefly appeared on his face.

"Unless it is for something significant, I don't want to take any risks. With my previous temperament, I might've had you stay behind." The shopkeeper muttered. He then took out a medicine bottle from his robes and he swallowed two dark green medicine pills. Soon after, he swiped his hand past his face and a blinding white light shined from it.

After the light faded, he now had the appearance of a skinny middle-aged scholar.

Both his face and his mannerisms were completely changed as if he were an entirely different person.

He walked to a corner of the main hall in a stride and placed his hand against the wall. An underground passage was revealed.

Meanwhile, Han Li brought the youth and the large man to a nearby building. With a quick look around, he found that no one appeared to be there.

He promptly released his Divine Essensefused Light and immediately dropped them on the ground.

After a brief look at the two, Han Li helplessly sighed, "You're quite lucky. If I wasn't scared of being implicated with your deaths, I wouldn't have gone through the trouble."

As he said this, he flipped his hand and summoned tens of silver needles in his hand.

Air tore as the needles sank into their bodies.

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After an unknown time had passed, the gentle young man woke up with a splitting headache.

After he opened his eyes, he immediately jumped up out of alarm and noticed Han Li and the black-armored man who earlier regained consciousness.

According to his last memories, the youth couldn't help but shout with fury, "What happened? I last remember that Old Traitor Yu didn't give us any treasure and instead used the Lightning Drawing Bead on us."

The large man shook his head, still feeling somewhat muddled. He sat up cross-legged and immediately examined himself with his spiritual sense.

A short moment later, he let out a long sigh, "How lucky. I've only lost a bit of vitality. Nothing too bad."

Han Li lowered his head in silence and his eyes wandered as if he were pondering.

The gentle youth looked at Han Li and the large man and said, "Do you two know what happened afterwards?"

The large man wryly laughed, "Not much. When I was hit by that rainbow lightning, my soul was shaken and I lost consciousness."

The youth turned to Han Li and said, "Brother Han, I recall that you've discovered that traitor's scheme and didn't fall into the Lightning Drawing Bead."

Han Li sighed and said, "As a mere Flying Spirit General, how could I truly escape? Although I dodged the rainbow lightning, the Lightning Beast attacked me and was knocked out like you two."

"You were attacked by the lightning beast? That's right, the beast should've been possessed by the traitor with the crystal core. He definitely would've been able to control its body for a short amount of time."

The black-armored man said with an odd expression, "The strange part is why would the traitor leave us here when he turned hostile."

"That is strange! Most likely, the traitor saw that we succeeded and didn't want to give anything. I found it strange that he would trade such rare items for subjugating a spirit beast. He originally planned on denying us from the start. Fancy that his Myriad Lightning Shop was so famous in the holy city."

Han Li nodded, "If he only wished to deny us treasure, it isn't necessary to kill us. However, while we were unconscious, he escaped."

When the large man heard this, he grew pensive and accepted this idea.

A cold glint flashed from the youth's eyes and he resentfully said, "We cannot allow that traitor to escape. Let's go to his residence, even if he managed to get away. We might be able to get some clues."

The black-armored man hesitated before agreeing, but Han Li shook his head, "My cultivation is too low. It is fortunate that we still have our lives. I don't want to investigate the matter further so I'll be bidding you two Seniors farewell."

The large man and the youth couldn't help but glance at each other in surprise.

The young man gritted his teeth and said, "Brother Han, are you really going to use that done when that traitor played us? Your lightning techniques are quite unordinary, so you should be someone of significant background. Even if the traitor's cultivation is far beyond ours, his vitality must've been greatly damaged when he extracted the soul of the Lightning Beast. If we joined hands, we have nothing to fear. And if that won't do, we can make a report to the elders. Although he possesses some cultivation, would he dare to resist the clan elders?"

The large black-armored man said, "The clan elders? There is no need to alarm them? Let's deal with the matter ourselves."

Han Li calmly shook his head, "Forget about it. I have other important matters in the holy city. I may as well take care of both matters while I'm there. Since this matter can't be changed, I won't be paying much attention to it. Seniors, I will bid you farewell." He then saluted the two and soared to the sky with the wings on his back, taking off in an azure streak.

The young man looked at Han Li flying away with a sullen expression and turned to the large man, "He can't recognize the kindness of others. So long as we can find that traitor, the two of us will be able to deal with him."

"Hehe, a mere Flying Spirit General is still something, not much or little." Feeling somewhat worried, the large black-armored man said, "However, since that Old Traitor Yu dares to turn back on his word, he must have something prepared. Our chances aren't very high."

"If we don't investigate, how do we know if we can't block him," the youth shook his head.

The large man hummed several times, "That sounds reasonable. Let's go."

Soon after, the two flew in the direction of the shopkeeper's residence.

At that moment, Han Li was boldly returning to the honored guest lodge and tossed the matter to the back of his mind.

Over the next few days, Han Li sat cross-legged in the building and continuously drank medicine pills to consolidate his late Deity Transformation-stage cultivation. Meanwhile, he spent great efforts to comprehend the Tian Peng's transformation technique.

From his efforts, he grasped the transformation technique to the point of perfection. He would be able to use it in a real battle.

As time slowly passed by, two months quickly passed.

One day, as Han Li sat cross-legged on his bed with azure waves of light roaming around him, his expression suddenly stirred and his eyes opened.

At nearly the same time, a bright voice leisurely spoke from the outside, "I am Bai Bi. Grand Elder Feng has given me orders to invite you."

Han Li narrowed his eyes for a moment before wearing a normal expression.

His body moved with an unnatural swiftness as he stood to his feet.

Ever since he cultivated the Tian Peng Transformation Art, he felt his body become far nimbler and his body techniques have seen an improvement as well.

Han Li pushed open his door and walked out, heading directly to the main hall.

When he arrived at the hall, there was a yellow-clothed young man with his hands held behind his back.

The youth didn't look particularly handsome, but his eyes were clear. When he saw Han Li arrive, he amiably asked, "Are you Senior Han? Under Grand Elder Feng's orders, I've come to remind you to leave." He spoke with complete and free ease despite only possessing early Deity Transformation cultivation.

Han Li glanced at the youth and smiled, "Bai Bi? It seems your bearing is unordinary. You should be one of the two holy disciples."

Bai Bi saluted Han Li with a smile and said, "I am ashamed. I have failed the deep favor of the elders as one of the holy disciples. I have come to know a bit about Brother Han's circumstances from a few of the elders. I must thank Brother Han for his assistance, or else an elder close to me may find their lives in danger."

"You mean to say..." Han Li wore an expression of surprise.

The youth smiled and said, "My uncle Bai Lei and my Aunt, Bai Ning."

"You're Brother Bai Lei's nephew." Han Li looked at the shining golden wings on the young man's back and wore an odd expression on his face.

Sensing Han Li's doubt, Bai Bi explained with a smile, "There is no need for Brother Han to feel baffled. It was only after I came of age did I arouse the Kun Peng True Bloodline hidden in my body. That is why my wings changed color."

"So it was like that. Your luck must've been quite good," Han Li chuckled.

Soon after, he followed the Tian Peng holy disciple away from the residence.

Four hours later, Han Li arrived at an imposing hall made of white stone. The hall was serene and had a white stone table and a row of five stone chairs to either side of it.

Apart from Yin Yue, the red-bearded old man, and the beautiful woman, there was also a tall and thin man wearing black robes.

A dark Qi faintly emitted from the man's body, concealing his face entirely. He also had a pair of black wings that shined with black light.

The stone table had a box as scarlet as fire. Several emerald green tree leaves were intertwined in a pattern on top of it. The green light they emitted made for a stark contrast with the color of the box.

Han Li stood in front of the four with Bai Bi standing off to the side.

The atmosphere in the hall was incredibly heavy, and none of them chose to speak. It was as if no one was there.

As for the black-robed man, he examined Han Li with much interest.

A moment later, footsteps sounded from outside the hall to reveal a silver-robed woman with white wings. She carried a wind into the hall.

Her complexion was like white jade and her eyes were beautiful. There was not a flaw in her appearance.

"Lei Lan, you're late." Jin Yue looked at the woman and frowned.

The beauty bowed to Jin Yue and spoke with a hoarse voice, "Grand Elder, I've comprehended a few techniques recently and had a sudden understanding, resulting in my tardiness. I hope the elders will forgive me."

"Since it was related to comprehension, then so be it." Jin Yue's expression relaxed.

She uttered a word of thanks and stood to the side.

Jin Yue then stared at the Han Li and the holy disciples and spoke with a pleasant voice, "You should know why we've gathered you here. The oncoming trial is related to the life and death of the clan. So one of you two must pass the trail and succeed the position as our race's holy master. However, we've received information that there are branches hostile to us like the Chi Rong. They are unwilling to allow us to escape calamity and have most likely placed people in the trials to act against you. The time you've spent as holy disciples is too short. If the other holy disciples violently block you, you won't return. For this reason, I've invited Fellow Daoist Han to our Tian Peng Race. He will temporarily act as the third holy disciple. He will offer you his strength."

Bai Bi and the newly entered woman raised their head and glanced at Han Li.

The young man had a warm, kind gaze while the woman's expression was as clear as ice.

Han Li faintly smiled.

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The young woman Jin Yue warned, "Fellow Daoist Han already refined a Kun Peng Feather. Along with the Tian Peng True Blood and the Repic we assisted in merging with him, the other branches can't say anything about not being one of us. But that stands to mention, we'll be avoiding speaking of Fellow Daoist Han's circumstances to the outside to avoid unnecessary complications. We'll simply say that he was a clan member that was nurtured overseas."

"We'll do as you say." The two holy disciples nodded in agreement.

Jin Yue nodded with satisfaction and turned to Han Li, solemnly saying, "Fellow Daoist Han, I've already called for the scroll containing the Tian Peng Vow to be brought out. Furthermore, Elder Shi has also returned. He will participate in dispelling the seal on the scroll. Prepare to sign your name on it."

Elder Shi seemed to be the black-robed man standing at the side.

"I'll have to trouble you, Elders." Han Li agreed without any reservations. His eyes then dropped on the wooden box on the table.

When Jin Yue saw this, she beckoned to the wooden box.

In a brush of wind, the box directly sucked into her grasp and dropped into the young woman's hand.

In that next moment, the others also focused their attention there.

Jin Yue's expression remained calm as he brushed her fingers past the green leaves on the box

Suddenly, green light shined brilliantly and she nimbly took the leaves off the box.

Without any of the pressure emitting from the leaves, the crimson box ignited into a ball of scarlet fire.

Jin Yue grabbed the fire and gave it a nonchalant shake.

The flames were immediately extinguished to reveal a half-foot-long scarlet scroll. There were an azure and a red ghost head biting down on either end of it, both appearing true to life.

After uttering a brief incantation, she tossed the scroll in front of her where it suspended itself at a low height.

The young woman then unfolded only one of her wings, which soon glistened with golden light. In a flash, the light wrapped around the box.

With that done, she turned to the black-robed man and said, "Elder Shi, help me dissolve the seal."

"As the matter concerns the existence of the clan, I will do my utmost," The black-robed man said with a smile. Then one of his wings released a streak of black light which entered the scroll.

As for the red-bearded old man and the beautiful woman, they performed a similar action.

With the feathers of the four Tian Peng Elders absorbed by the scroll, space began to warp.

Red light flashed from the entire scroll and expanded several times in size. Both of the ghost heads on either end of it simultaneously opened and revealed blood-red eyes. It was then that they released their grip on the scroll and allowed it to unfold.

Red mist flickered from the above of the scroll, condensing into countless roiling talisman characters.

A blue light flickered from Han Li's eyes allowing him to see the scroll's contents clearly.

The red light was densely filled with small characters. Most of them appeared to be names.

At the very top of the scroll, 'Tian Peng Vow' was written in large golden characters of the Flying Spirit Tribe.

Afterwards, it listed faint silver characters with contents that appeared similar to a few Tian Peng records.

Then, it listed rows of dark azure names.

Han Li carefully swept his spiritual sense through the scroll.

When he made contact with the red list, long clear cries began to sound from it. Soon, the light mist roiled and revealed a mythical bird phantom. As soon as it appeared, it was only a foot tall, but as it brilliantly glowed, it turned the size of a hill, filling most of the hall and completely submerging Han Li and company in it.

Han Li and the holy disciples were alarmed, but Jin Yue and the other elders were completely calm.

"Move back," Jin Yue raised her hand and waved an azure copper mirror at the bird image.

The phantom suddenly let out a cry and immediately shattered into tiny fragments that were swept into the scroll in an azure wave.

Jin Yue withdrew the mirror and spoke to Han Li with a deep tone, "Use your blood essence to sign the scroll. You must use your true name, or there is no saving you from the vow's backlash."

Han Li trembled. A few of his original thoughts had been temporarily placed to the back of his mind.

He took a deep breath and took large steps forward.

He spat out a golden thread. In a golden flash, the thread sliced open a small opening from his finger. Then under the pressure of his spiritual power, he forced a drop of faintly golden blood essence from it."

"Yi!" Elder Shi wore an odd expression on his face."

"Has Elder Shi found something amiss?" The red-bearded old man twirled his beard.

The black-robed man hesitated and slowly said, "It's nothing. Fellow Daoist Han most likely cultivated a peculiar technique or consumed a few rare fruits which resulted in the color of his blood essence."

The old man looked at Han Li and pensively said, 'That's true. Golden blood essence is truly rare. His body has most likely been strengthened to a degree for that to happen!"

The black-robed man smiled and said nothing else.

At that moment, Han Li moved in front of the scroll and quickly wrote his name on an empty spot on the scroll.

When the drop of faint golden blood essence dropped on the scroll, the words absorbed it. In a flash, it turned into dark azure words. They were dull as if they had been written for many years now.

Meanwhile, Han Li faintly sensed that something was gazing at his primal soul, but it immediately disappeared.

Alarmed, it appeared that the Tian Peng Vow seemed to be something of a gateway.

Having thought of this, Han Li felt more at ease.

With a binding like this, the Tian Peng Elders wouldn't be able to throw him away or their agreement once the matter is settled.

As Han Li pondered to himself, Jin Yue had the other holy disciples put down their names as well.

Once the scroll trembled, it quickly wrapped itself and the two ghost heads stirred, biting down on either hand. When Jin Yue waved at it, the scroll shrunk and quickly flew into her sleeve.

With the scroll retrieved, Jin Yue indifferently said, "Alright, since that matter is done, Elder Xi will explain the matters you must pay attention to during the earth abyss trial. Remember it well. It could save your life."

"The earth abyss trial is held by the main branch of the Flying Spirit Tribe and is held once every three hundred years..." The red-bearded man began to slowly explain.

Han Li and the two holy disciples carefully listened.

Several days later, several huge snow-white birds flew out of the main gate of the holy city. After they left the restrictions, they soared to the sky.

Han Li was sitting on top of one of the birds.

With each wing flap, the white birds flew forward a hundred meters. With several flaps, they quickly reached the end of the horizon, turning into black dots.

On a mountaintop three months later, in a large series of green buildings surrounded by a huge plaza stood over a hundred Flying Spirit Tribe beings. At the center, there was a red crane and a brightly-colored strange bird. They were unleashing attacks as they fought against one another in mid-air.

The red crane's movements were a marvel. Each claw and peck produced the sound of tearing space, clearly displaying an incredibly sharpness.

The brightly colored bird had four wings and a horn on its head. The colors on its body released a mist of light that seemed to absorb the crane's attack without a problem.

The red crane was furious at this and suddenly flew a hundred meters backward, spreading its wings in the direction of the bright bird.

Suddenly, tens of long feathers shot out, blurring into gleaming blades as they flew through the air. They all struck the opposing bird's light mist at nearly the same time.

No matter how wondrous the gorgeous light mist was, it groaned and violently trembled upon receiving the attacks of so many blades and began to forcefully tear.

The crane was overjoyed when it saw this and was about to release more blades when the bright burd suddenly released a sharp cry. A yellow wave rushed forth and the sharp blades were blown askew. They then turned around as if they were completely under the bright bird's control.

The crane was startled and opened its mouth releasing a white beam of light. It penetrated the bright bird's wind.

A strange light flashed from the bright bird's purple eyes and a black horn suddenly shined with red light from the bright bird's eyes. A red light suddenly shot out from it and struck the oncoming white beam.

The air rumbled and both attacks were nullified.

"Brother Xun, what other abilities do you have? I've already fully used all of mine. If you have no others, I am going to attack." The bright bird spoke with a man's voice.

A cold snort sounded from the crane, "Your Horned Vulture Tribe only has their many abilities. How could they deal with me?"

"Good, then I'll let you witness them. This is my newly cultivated ability." The bright bird strangely said.

The right bird's four wings flapped, releasing a wave of bright light. The bright bird transformed into a three-meter-tall yellow bell.

"Not good!" Everyone who saw this immediately took several steps back in alarm. Only those with more confidence in their cultivation stood still.

The yellow bell began to shake itself and let out deep rings.

Everyone who heard this felt their minds shaken by the sound.

As for the red crane that directly faced most of the bell's power, he wordlessly dropped to the floor.

At that same moment, his body flashed white to reveal a white-robed Flying Spirit Tribe man about thirty years old.

Another man flew out of the crowd and caught the man before he landed.

The yellow bell shook and turned into a black-robed young man. He saluted at the ground and calmly said, "You let me win."

As for the crane that turned back into a man, he looked at the black-robed youth with an unsightly expression as he was carried out by his companion.

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Under close examination, the man that had the form of a red crane appeared very different from an ordinary human. His face was close enough, but his ears were sharp and there was a round red bulge from the top of his head.

As for the black-robed youth, there was a small black horn on his head and his mouth had a pair of sharp fangs several inches long.

As for the surrounding hundred Flying Spirit Tribe beings, most of them appeared different from humans, but they only had a few aspects that were different. But what was most different from all of them was the large variety in the color and length of their wings.

These people were all from the Flying Spirit Tribe.

"The Horned Vulture Race's Devil Suppressing Bell is truly powerful. I've received much experience." The defeated white-robed man uttered these words resentfully before being half-carried away.

"Are there any others that wish to learn a thing or two?" The black-robed youth said calmly, looking down at the crowd as he uttered a word of challenge.

The crowd became restless, but for a time no one stepped forward.

When the youth saw this, he sneered, but just as he thought to say something, someone spoke from a distance, "Quickly look, holy disciples of the westmost branches, the Pentaluster, Tian Peng, and Chi Rong Races have arrived."

When the crowd heard this, they began to speak as if it were a race.

Those that were curious turned around, flying a distance away. In the blink of an eye, the crowd shrank by a small half.

When the black-robed youth heard this, his face slightly changed and he silently descended from the sky.

Meanwhile, in an area over fifty kilometers away from the huge mountain, apart from tens of various huge birds, there was also a sixty-meter-long crimson flying scorpion that was flying through to the mountain.

Among the huge birds, there were several with pure-white bodies with various men and women riding them. They were the Tian Peng Race.

Han Li was riding on top of one of the huge birds.

In the Tian Peng's party, Jin Yue and the mysterious Elder Shi rode alongside the holy disciples.

The red-bearded old man and the beautiful woman remained on guard at the holy city.

At that moment, they were together with two different groups.

One of the groups had purple hair and red skin. As for the other group, they had smaller wings and gorgeous robes.

They were respectively the Chi Rong and the Pentaluster Race. However, the meager five people of the Tian Peng Race were clearly fewer than the other two groups.

The gorgeous young female holy disciple smiled and said, "Elder Jin, it appears that Jade Emperor Peak's elders knew we were coming and lit up the welcoming fires."

In a distance away above the huge mountain, there was a large rainbow flame burning, filling the air with a gorgeous glow.

The astonishing scene could be clearly seen by those fifty kilometers away.

"It seems we weren't the first to arrive. Time truly passes quickly. In the blink of an eye, three hundred years already passed." Jin Yue turned to an old man with fire-red skin and said, "Brother Zhu, what do you think about this place?"

"What impression is there to be had?" The old man expression asked, "Unless we cultivate a True Spirit Body or to Soaring True Immortal Stage, we'll just be mounds of earth in tens of thousands of years. The prosperities of the tribe are replaced in turn. Has Elder Jin considered the matter I spoke a few days ago?"

A bright glint flashed from the young woman's eyes and she indifferently replied, "Our Tian Peng Race has truly become much weaker, but we've survived since ancient times. We are the longest living branch of the tribe. We won't easily discard our legacy and throw ourselves into the embrace of another tribe. I've put much thought into Brother Zhu's proposal to merge, but I can only refuse you."

Old Man Zhu coldly smiled and said, "Is that so? If I remember correction, from ancient times, your esteemed Elder Shi came from the Black Feather Tribe, a branch that was annexed during your golden age. Now that your own tribe has been weakened, merging with a stronger tribe and handing over the master's position is a natural position."

"How can this matter relate to the Black Feather Tribe? At the time, the Black Feather Tribe weren't only lacking a holy master, but it also faced powerful enemies and took the initiative to merge with our tribe. We hadn't forced them." The young woman said with a casual tone.

Old Man Zhu chuckled and said, "Those matters happened so long ago, who truly knows what actually happened. Since you've rejected my clan's kind intentions, we'll have to see if your clan's holy disciples can make it through the earth abyss trial. If they fail, don't blame me if several branches form a council of elders and discuss the proposal to dismantle your clan. Don't forget that our Chi Rong race isn't the only one interested in your clan."

A charming young woman looked over to them with a sweet smile and said, "Brother Zhu, your esteemed clan has become amongst the top three in strength among the seventy-two branches. There is no need to be so overbearing in your pursuit to consume the Tian Peng Race. Could it be you rush to forcefully contend with the Jiu Yue Race?"

"Lady Qui, don't speak such rubbish. When did anybody from my clan say that?" When the old man heard her, his face greatly changed.

Elder Qui smiled and thought to say more when heavenly music began to play from the direction of the mountain top. The sky's color then flickered and became more gorgeous.

They hastily shut their mouths and ceased flight as they floated in the air.

In the blink of an eye, the ten variously dressed people, most of aging appearance and venerable bearing, appeared from the slight."

"We pay our respects to the Elders." When Jin Yue and the others saw these ten men, they jumped off their birds in alarm and deeply saluted them.

An old woman with a cane with a beaming smile and said, "There is no need to regard us as outsiders. You'll join our ranks sooner or later. The other elders are awaiting you on Jade Emperor Peak."

Jin Yue's heart stirred and she respectfully asked, "What? Could it be that our three branches were the last?"

The old woman chuckled and answered, "This is not the case. The northmost Gui Mian and Du Jiu branches were busy so we're able to start the earth abyss trial without them. With you three, we may begin."

"So it was like that," Jin Yue nodded.

Standing behind them, Han Li felt his heart tremble when he saw the ten that appeared.

The ten were mostly at Body Integration cultivation. As for the old woman, he wasn't able to see through her cultivation stage. She was most likely the same as Jin Yue, a fearsome existence at Body Integration stage or higher.

This was the so-called joint assembly elders.

It was said that elders were originally from various tribes, but when their lifespans were nearing their end, they could join these elders and renounce their affiliation with their original branch, taking on the responsibilities of the entire Flying Spirit Tribe.

At that moment, Old Man Zhu and the young woman stepped forward and exchanged pleasantries with the old woman. Soon after, the party flew to the mountain under the guidance of the old woman.

A moment later, the party arrived near the huge mountain and the imposing buildings could be faintly seen. Black dots could be seen circling the air above it.

Under closer examination, Han Li discovered that there were hundreds of huge birds flying through the air as well as huge winged insects with malevolent appearances.

When the mountain appeared to only be a kilometer away, a muffled bang sounded. A seven-colored rainbow flew out in a curve from a long distance away towards them.

Soon after, a gorgeous arched bridge appeared above them.

The old woman and the others blurred, taking a step on the bridge and beckoning the others with a smile.

"Let's go." Jin Yue commanded. She then stepped off the bird and quickly walked on the bridge.

The other parties did the same.

When Han Li walked on the bridge, he felt that he was stepping on something completely soft like a thick cushion.

Curious, he wanted to take a close look and released his spiritual sense, but he felt the bridge tremble and their surroundings light up, completely enveloping the party. With several shakes, the light brought them to the other end of the bridge.

At that moment, Han Li was unable to examine the marvelous display of the bridge as he found himself in front of over twenty Flying Spirit Tribe beings. They were all staring at him.

Behind them, there appeared to be a jade-green hall wrapped in white fog.

At the very front of this crowd were two people. One of them was a middle-aged man with a large nose and snow-white hair. The other had a wrinkly face and long cheeks, an old man with a black tattoo on his neck.

When the old woman saw them, she smiled and she walked towards them. As for the rest of them, they joined the crowd.

The tattooed old man waved his hand with a smile, "The elders have brought their holy disciples from a distance away. It must've been tiring. The holy disciples may rest in the side hall for a spell. The elders may accompany us to the main hall for a chat. The other clan elders are waiting for us there."

The Chi Rong's Elder Zhu rushed to speak, smiling as he said, "Elder Ming is too polite. We'll do as you request."

Jin Yue and the young woman from the Pentaluster Race raised no objections.

With that, Han Li and the others entered the white fog.

At an unknown time, a slender white-robed woman appeared in front of Han Li and the other holy disciples. She beamed at them and said, "Holy disciple, please follow me. This servant shall arrange your residences."

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"I must trouble you," One of the Chi Rong holy disciples said with a respectful tone. Although the woman's cultivation wasn't high, he didn't dare to slight her.

As there were many in the Chi Rong Race, they sent seven holy disciples. The Pentaluster Race sent five.

The one that sent the least were the Tian Peng Race, three including Han Li, and this was with leaving nothing behind. The other branches of the tribe were sure to keep a few holy disciples hidden and not send them.

Furthermore, the holy disciples of the other two branches were at mid-Deity Transformation stage at the very least. Bai Bi and Lei Lan were in truth a grade lower.

From this, it could be seen how weak the Tian Peng Race was when compared to the other branches. It was no wonder the higher echelon of the Tian Peng race had used such effort to rope him in. It would be a common occurrence for stronger branches to target them.

The strong preying on the weak was the rule of law in the spirit realm as well.

With that in mind, Han Li followed after the Chi Rong disciples along with the Bai Bi, Lei Lan, and the Pentaluster disciples.

They all obediently followed after her for a long distance.

Of the many Chi Rong holy disciples, the one that caught Han Li's attention the most was a man with a sinister face and hostile eyes.

The other Chi Rong holy disciples had about the same cultivation, but only this cultivator gave him a feeling of danger.

With that thought, Han Li couldn't help but look at his back with narrowed eyes.

A beautiful Pentaluster woman that appeared in her twenties sweetly smiled at Han Li and asked, "What? Could Brother Han be interested in Zhu Yinzi?"

Although Han Li was only a fake holy disciple, his cultivation was still at high-grade spirit general. Be it the Chi Rong or the Pentaluster Race, they all viewed Han Li as the leader of the Tian Peng holy disciples.

And with his unfamiliar face, he should've been a concealed reserve. The other two tribes viewed Han Li with greater attention.

During their travels, the holy disciples hadn't spoken to each other as Jin Yue and the other elders were present. Now that they were separated from the elders, the woman decided to open a conversation.

Of course, this was also because the Tian Peng always maintained friendly relations with the Pentaluster Race.

As for the Chi Rong holy disciples, they decided to ignore Han Li for the time being.

Han Li indifferently answered, "It's nothing. Brother Zhu's baleful Qi is quite deep. I suspect he has much battle experience."

"It seems Brother Han's story of cultivating overseas is true. Zhu Yinzi has been resoundingly famous amongst the younger generation. He has entered the earth abyss seven times already. Although he didn't head deep inside, he killed many demons. He is as famous as the Sevenpass Race's Ao Qing and the Nan Long Race's Fei Ye. It is said that their abilities are no lesser than a mid-grade Great Spirit General." The Pentaluster woman replied with a smile. It seemed she didn't care if the Chi Rong disciples heard her.

"So it was like that," Han Li answered calmly with a nod. He then said nothing else.

When she saw Han Li's indifferent attitude, the Pentaluster woman became somewhat more interested. But before she could say anything, the white-clothed maid arrived in front of several seven-story tall buildings.

The maid turned to face the holy disciples and said,

"You may choose which building each of your races may occupy. But there is something I must remind you of. On Jade Emperor Peak you may only spar with those from the eastmost branches. You may not fight with anybody from the other areas. Otherwise, there will be grave punishments like the destruction of one's cultivation.

The party of cultivators felt their hearts tremble. A handsome Chi Rong man then stepped forward and said, "We understand. Thank you for your trouble."

The white-robed young woman smiled and saluted to the holy disciples, "I am called Xiao Zhu. I will be attending to all of your minor necessities. If there is anything you require, please find me."

Afterwards, nothing else was said and the groups entered the building of their choice.

Han Li chose the tallest of the buildings. As for Bai Bi and Lei Lan, they chose two of the lower floors.

After several months travelling at breakneck speed, even Han Li felt tired.

Without another word, he sat cross-legged on his bed and shut his eyes.

An unknown time later, he opened his eyes to see a dark sky.

He nimble walked off his bed and stretched, then walking to a lower floor.

He found that Bai Bi was meditating in his room and that Lei Lan had disappeared, somewhat to Han Li's surprise.

He recalled that before they set off. Jin Yue had given them a thousand warnings that they mustn't leave the group and give enemies an opportunity.

With some thought, Han Li felt somewhat ill at ease and walked out with his hands behind his back.

As they were involved with the success of the earth abyss trial, ignoring her was out of the question.

"Yi! Isn't that Brother Han? What a coincidence!" A leisurely voice sounded as someone walked out of another building.

Han Li blinked and looked over in the direction of the voice.

He saw a youth with a round face, a Chi Rong holy disciple. He wore a smile on his face.

Han Li was expressionless, but he coldly chuckled in his mind.

'If they truly met by coincidence, it was a matter to curse over. He was most likely standing guard and calmly waiting for us to come out.'

Although he didn't know what he planned, it can't be anything good.

Han Li looked at the young man without a word.

The Chi Rong man paid no attention to Han Li's cold demeanor and chuckled, "Why is Brother Han so distant? Our clans may have a few contrary views, but there is no need to be so hostile before the earth abyss trial. In the future, if your clan is truly to enter our Chi Rong Race, we'll become brothers."

"If our clans truly become one, that is possible." Han Li narrowed his eyes and showed a slight smile.

The round youth was stunned by Han Li's quick change and soon smiled as well.

"I am Chi Tian and this is also my first time on Jade Emperor Peak. How about we walk around together?" Chi Tian spoke as if they were good friends.

"With you?" Han Li raised his brow.

"This place restricts battle. Do you fear that I'll plot against you?" Chi Tian smiled.

"Not at all, but I have no interest in being friends with you." Han Li's expression sank.

When Chi Tian felt that he was being played, a hostile expression momentarily appeared before his smile returned.

After a moment of silence, the young man slowly said, "Brother Han must've come out to find your clan's Lady Lei."

"What do you mean by that?" Han Li said with an icy tone.

"It's nothing. I simply saw Lady Lei Lan travel with my clan's Senior Martial Sister Hong Sha. It seems they planned on comparing pointers at the arena. I told you so you didn't have to waste your time looking," Chi Tian said with a fake smile.

"Then I must thank you for your warning." Han Li creased his brow for a moment and saluted the man before flying off.

When he saw Han Li was a distance away, Chi Tian sneered.

"Junior Martial Brother Chi, you've done well." After Han Li vanished down a road, a voice sounded from behind Chi Tian.

A figure blurred from the building door. He was a tall skinny man with skin that was a far deeper red than ordinary Chi Rong people. A trace of hostility appeared in his eyes.

With a faint change of expression, he respectfully said, "Senior Martial Brother Zhu, it was only a small matter. Anybody could've done it. That person may be a high-grade spirit general, but why has Senior Martial Brother taken note of him? We should be able to deal with this person with ease."

"Junior Martial Brother Chi, your words are mistaken. If that person is who I think he is, all of you wouldn't be a match for him."

"Senior Martial Brother knows that person?" Chi Tian was stunned.

Zhu Yinzi suddenly asked, "Does Junior Martial Brother know how Tian Ming and his subordinates were repelled several months before?"

After some hesitation, Chi Tian truthfully answered, "I have heard about it. It was said that no only did they fail their mission, but they lost a high-grade Chi Hou bird and a Fire Dragon Pearl.

Zhu Yinzi licked his lips and wore an odd expression, "At that time, this person alone had repelled Tian Ming and killed the Chi Hou bird. He should be this High Holy Disciple Han."

Chi Tian's expression vastly changed and he spoke with a tone of disbelief, "That's impossible. Senior Martial Brother Tian Ming was a mid-grade spirit general and the others also had spirit general grade cultivation. The Chi Hou Bird also should've been as powerful as a mid-grade spirit general."

Zhi Yinzi gloomily said, "Tian Ming had personally given me an account. Since the Tian Peng had recalled this holy disciple from overseas, it should be this person. I suspect that he possesses high-grade spirit general cultivation, or else he would've have been able to repel Tian Ming and the others."

The round youth blinked and hesitantly said, "Then the Tian Peng Race does have a trick up their sleeves. Originally when their holy master perished, it was said they didn't have a single holy disciple and that they'd be annexed into the Chi Rong without a doubt. Now, three more holy disciples have appeared and one of them is a high-grade spirit general. This is truly surprising."

Zhu Yinzi sullenly said, "Its nothing. After all, the Tian Peng Race has existed since ancient times. It comes as no surprise if they have some secrets they've still kept hidden. However, the elders have made it clear that we should unite other tribes in dealing with the Tian Peng as we cannot allow them to have another holy master. This one named Han Li most likely is the most hopeful of the Tian Peng Race. Before he enters the earth abyss, we must verify his true abilities. I don't want to perform something that has no chance of succeeding."

Chi Tian said with a beaming smile, "Senior Martial Brother's words are reasonable. Let's go to the sparring arena. He must've gone there."

Zhi Yinzi chuckled, "Of course. With the few numbers of Tian Peng holy disciples, he must want to keep an eye on them. If something bad happened to one of them, he'll be taking responsibility.

The two immediately soared to the sky and directly flew east.

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Han Li walked along a stone path in a leisurely manner and admired the view around him.

At first glance, there was no one there, but when he raised his head, he found a few people that were flying. The Flying Spirit Tribe were originally accustomed to flight, so the paths on the ground were mostly for decoration.

When Han Li thought of how many powerful Flying Spirit Tribe members have gathered, he couldn't help but inwardly sigh.

Let alone other things, the seventy-two branches of the Flying Spirit Tribe each had a group of elders as well as a group of thirty-some elders overseeing the entire tribe. Their power far exceeded that of Deep Heaven City. After all, during times of peace, Deep Heaven City only had ten Body Integration elders standing guard. During war, the demon and humans could gather together nearly a hundred Body Integration existences, but this was the power of two races. Alone, neither the humans nor demons could hope to rival the true power of the Flying Spirit Tribe.

As for the number of Deity Transformation and Spatial Tempering existences, that wasn't something that the humans or demons could rival.

In that case, despite how long the humans had established themselves in the spirit realm, they were considered a somewhat weaker power.

Comparatively, the Flying Spirit Tribe's power wasn't as high as the legendary races of the spirit realm, but they were enough to be considered a mid-grade existence.

As Han Li inwardly pondered this, he turned a corner and discovered a small booth in front of him. It connected to several other roads.

There were two wooden chairs in the booth, occupied by two white-clothed women that were having a pleasant chat.

When they saw that someone else had arrived, they stopped and looked over.

One of the two was a dainty woman that had led Han Li's group to their residences, Xiao Zhu.

After some thought, Han Li politely asked, "So it was Lady Xiao Zhu. Could you tell me if my companion has passed this place recently?"

Xiao Zhu stood up and answered with a smile, "Young Master Han must be talking about his Junior Sister Lei. Not long before, I have seen her pass by. She seemed to be heading in the direction of the sparring arena."

Han Li's heart dropped and he asked, "The sparring arena? Was she alone?"

Xiao Zhu blinked and gave a meaningful smile, "No, she was accompanied by the Chi Rong's Young Miss Hong Sha."

"Many thanks!" Han Li's face remained calm and he gave a brief smile before heading towards the path to the sparring arena.

When the two white-robed women saw this, they exchanged a glance of astonishment.

The Tian Peng holy disciple remained calm upon hearing that his companion was led there by a hostile branch. He was quite unordinary.

Unbeknownst to them, Han Li only appeared calm while he was actually quite angry.

That Tian Peng woman Lei Lan didn't know what was good for her.

Although he didn't know what the Chi Rong did to get her over there, it was clear they didn't have any good intentions. If they deliberately injured her under the guise of an accident, the chances of passing the trial would grow even slimmer.

He couldn't remain indifferent about the matter.

After all, he placed his name in the Tian Peng Vow and made a supplemental agreement with Jin Yue. If he didn't have one of the holy disciples become a holy master, he would be greatly troubled.

He was certain the Tian Peng Elders wouldn't leave him alone as their clan was annexed.

When Han Li recalled the particulars about the earth abyss trial, he inwardly sighed.

This time, he would acquire important benefits from the Tian Peng race, but he was also drawn into trouble.

Even if he assisted the Tian Peng in escaping their dilemma, he would also need to make proper plans to leave.

With that in mind, Han Li stepped forward calmly and eventually arrived at the corner. Then, he flickered and blurred out of sight.

The so-called sparring arena was found easily. It wasn't as far as Han Li had imagined.

After making use of his quick movement abilities, it only took him the time to finish a meal before he arrived at a huge light barrier. He faintly heard the sounds of an explosion from there.

His expression stirred and he ceased his movement techniques, instead moving closer on foot.

Since Chi Tian had taken the initiative to tell him Lei Lan's whereabouts, their plan should've been to challenge him.

So long as he doesn't appear, the Chi Rong won't immediately make trouble. Furthermore, even if they were impatient to act, it was too late for him to do anything so there was no point in rushing.

With that in mind, Han Li's eyes flickered with blue light as he gazed into the light barrier.

It appeared people were making full use of their abilities in battle.

Fortunately, those that were battling didn't use any transformation abilities. One of them was controlling fire and the other breathing blue icy Qi. Han Li was relieved that neither of them was Lei Lan.

The woman controlling the fire should be the Chi Rong's holy disciple Hong Sha.

Feeling somewhat baffled, Han Li suddenly sensed someone looking at him with icy eyes from a distance.

As Han Li possessed sharp senses, he immediately looked back to find this person.

However, Han Li only felt his heart tremble. The glance immediately disappeared and he couldn't find the person in the crowd.

Han Li's expression sank and he pondered for a moment. He gave up on his search and quickly made his way to the sparring arena.

But before he arrived, the raging flames and icy Qi fiercely flashed, instantly deciding the outcome of the battle.

The blue-winged man instantly was repeatedly pushed back by the raging flames and he eventually conceded and dropped to the ground.

Hong Sha, a beauty to begin with, wore a seductive smile and said, "Junior Sister Lei, I've already dealt with him. If you want the Lightning Star Stone, I'll hand it over to you if you defeat me. I definitely won't break my promise.

Many of the Flying Spirit Tribe's men felt their minds roil when they saw her face.

Han Li inwardly shouted 'no', but at this distance, there was nothing he could do.

A ball of white light flashed and floated to the sky. They had a slender figure and silver wings.

She was Lei Lan without a doubt.

Han Li's face sank.

The Chi Rong woman had instantly defeated an opponent in an instant and was now challenging Lei Lan.

It clearly wasn't a coincidence. It was clear someone had spotted him and secretly informed her, thus setting their plan into motion.

However, he took several breaths and his expression became calm once more. He rushed forward to the side of the stage and looked for a nearby area before standing still.

Lei Lan expressionlessly said, "You used the Lightning Star Stone to drag me here from my residence. You've wanted to fight me in any case. Regardless of your intentions, so long I can acquire the stone, I won't hold back."

She spread her silver wings and bolts of silver lightning appeared in the air. They quickly spread across her body as if she were a spirit of lightning.

Hong Sha paid no mind to this and giggled, shooting a glance in Han Li's direction. "So it turns out that Junior Sister has some skill. I'll definitely present the Lightning Star Stone to you."

A few of the branches below knew of the resentment between the Chi Rong and Tian Peng and began to whisper to another. They planned to enjoy the drama that would ensue.

Han Li stood in place with his hands behind his back without any intent to interrupt them.

Hong Sha giggled, but she inwardly felt somewhat anxious.

If Han Li didn't stop them, then she wouldn't be able to use the tricks she prepared. It appeared she would have to change her plans.

The woman pondered for just a moment and didn't hesitate any further. She formed an incantation gesture and red light brightly glowed from her body. Bowl-sized red fireballs began to appear around her, filling the sky with red lights.

The temperature in the arena massively rose and became difficult to endure.

Those with lesser cultivation among the spectators were forced to take several steps back before they could endure the heat.

Han Li's brow stirred when he saw this, but he remained in his original place.

When Lei Lan saw this, she wordlessly spread her wings and cast a spell.

Thunder rang from the air and the lightning wrapped around her grew several times thicker. From a distance, it looked as if a huge silver python was coiled in the air before it scattered into countless silver threads in an attack.

Each of the silver threads flashed, drilling holes through the fireballs.

In the blink of an eye, thunder clapped to no end. Countless fireballs erupted and turned into scattered embers.

The ability to control strands of lightning not only surprised Han Li, but it also turned the spectators restless.

Hong Sha also revealed a trace of surprise, but soon, she sneered. With a shake of her sleeve, she released a red mist and had it dance around her.

As the red mist brushed through the air, the embers gathered to the red mist and concentrated towards Hong Sha.

In the blink of an eye, a huge fire cloud appeared in the air, completely hiding Hong Sha from view.

The fire cloud roiled without end and a series of waves rushed outward. But soon, it condensed back to the center into a giant thirty-meter-wide fireball. The fireball turned in the air and let out a fearsome hum before flying in Lei Lan's direction.

Lei Lan's face slightly changed and she raised her hand. Silver light erupted, followed by a clap of thunder.

Her entire arm was wrapped in countless thin arcs of lightning. In a silver flash, they fused together.

With a loud eruption, a huge arc of lightning shot out from her arm to directly meet the giant fireball.

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With a clap of thunder, a thick bolt of silver lightning entered the huge fireball.

Just as most of the crowd believed the silver lightning penetrated the fireball, the lightning disappeared in a flash as if it were consumed.

In her alarm, the fireball quickly arrived before her with astonishing momentum.

After some brief hesitation, Lei Lan shot backwards and folded her wings around her.

Suddenly, layers of lightning began to form around her. In the shining light, she transformed into a silver-white Peng bird. Silver lightning jumped across her body and an odd necklace appeared around her neck. A dazzling golden gourd several inches tall floated on top of it.

She finally decided to use her last trump card and strike down her opponent.

When the huge fireball saw the Peng bird, it immediately stopped its tracks. As a muffled explosion boomed, the fireball suddenly transformed into a scarlet firebird.

The firebird was several times larger than the Peng bird, but the Peng showed no fear. With a clear sound, its entire body massively surged in size, rivalling that of the firebird. Afterwards, countless bolts of lightning shot out from its mouth.

The firebird was fearless as well and surged its flames. It clawed at the air, releasing ten crimson claw streaks.

The huge wingspan of the birds along with the increasing chaos of the battle concealed nearly half of what was occurring inside the light barrier.

Blood and feathers occasionally fell from the air.

But an instant later, whatever fell to the ground would instantly disappear.

This was expected by the crowd. After an early-grade spirit general like Lei Lan transforms, they wouldn't continue to stall the battle while at a disadvantage but aggressively attempt to turn the tide.

The lightning surrounding her entire body turned from silver-white to a faint purple and its might greatly increased.

Han Li stared at the lightning bird with his Brightsight Spirit Eyes and an odd expression appeared on his face.

The others only believed that the lightning bird used a technique on itself to increase the might of its lightning.

But with his spirit eyes, he could clearly see that the purple lightning wasn't something that was produced from the bird's body. It came from the small golden gourd that floated around its neck. When a spark of purple lightning from the goard touched the bird's silver lightning, they seamlessly fused together, turning her silver lightning to a faint purple.

The purple lightning sparks also seemed to have quite a background.

Hong Sha was caught off guard, furious at having lost control of the battle.

Although she didn't know what Lei Lan did, she clearly used an extraordinary technique. Otherwise, Lei Lan wouldn't prove to be her opponent, given her cultivation.

At that moment, Hong Sha heard several male voices in her ear. Although their voices weren't loud, they caused her heart to tremble. She promptly discarded her last trace of hesitation and spread her wings in preparation of using her killing move.

A strangely long feather shot out from the top of firebird's head.

Then in a burst of flames, the feather turned into an exact copy of the firebird. It opened its mouth and immediately spat out a chain of fireballs, creating a wave of roiling flames inside the arena barrier.

The Peng bird was immediately overwhelmed by the attack from the second firebird. Seeing that she wouldn't be a match, Lei Lan let out a furious shriek.

Fire and lightning collided. The light barrier shuddered and the nearby air began to faintly warp.

This also blurred the battle between the firebird and the silver Peng.

However, it was clear that the silver bird was facing eminent crisis and wouldn't hold out for much longer. Perhaps she would soon be defeated with heavy injury.

Han Li observed this in silence for a moment longer before he suddenly spread out his wings. In a clap of thunder, he turned into a bolt of white-azure lightning.

Meanwhile, a black silhouette flickered from another point in the crowd and also silently vanished.

Bang! A thirty-meter-long golden sword light appeared in the air, cleaving through the clashing fire and lightning as soon as it appeared.

But before the swordlight reached the battle, a faint white arc suddenly appeared in front of it, producing a sharp metallic shriek.

Fire, lightning, and the white arc collided, destroying all trace of one another.

When the two firebirds and the silver Peng saw the flash of golden light, an incredibly sharp attack had arrived above their heads and swung down.

The three birds had no way to block it.

In their alarm, they couldn't continue the battle. They immediately withdrew their attacks and retreated.

The huge sword light harmlessly fell between the two sides. As for the white arc, it remained in its original place but soon released enormous energy.

A windstorm was conjured near it. A large quantity of worldly essence Qi gathered at the white arc as if a spatial tear was about to open.

The spectators of the battle were thrown into chaos. The lightning bird in particular withdrew her lightning and turned back into her young woman form with an expression of bewilderment on her face.

"You aren't a match for her. Don't continue to struggle." A faint voice sounded from behind Lei Lan as if the speaker was right behind her.

The silver-clothed woman's face changed and she hastily turned around to find a youth standing there, Han Li.

"So it was Han Li who had taken action!" Lei Lan said with bewilderment.

The power of the swordlight was something she had expected from a Great Spirit General.

The fearsome swordlight and the white scar it produced had disappeared. The worldly essence Qi turned calm as well.

But at that moment, Han Li wasn't looking at Lei Lan but was staring across from her.

Startled, Lei Lan followed his eyes.

She discovered that Hong Sha also returned to her human form and withdrew her doppelganger. She looked over at them with a mysterious smile.

After Han Li separated them, a red-clothed youth with a harsh expression had appeared at her side.

The youth was Zhu Yinzi, the Chi Rong holy disciple Lei Lan was most wary of.

Ll couldn't help but feel a chill over her heart.

Zhu Yinzi smirked and said, "Brother Han, I heard that you've been cultivating overseas all this time and have only recently returned to the Tian Peng Race. I am quite curious about your abilities. Could you teach me a thing or two?"

The strike Han Li had just released caused his heart to sink. From that display, he knew Han Li's abilities were quite powerful. But in order to take measure of Han Li's true power, he calmly challenged Han Li in accordance with their original plan.

Zhu Yinzi's reputation far outshined the likes of Hong Sha and Lei Lan.

With his appearance, the spectators immediately recognized him. With news that Zhu Yinzi had challenged someone else, the crowd grew excited.

It was rare to see two equals of great power face one another. The difference in fame was clear, but the other was a high-grade spirit general. The fight was likely to display things that were rarely seen.

Lei Lan frowned when she heard this, but a flash of realization suddenly appeared on her face. It appeared she finally saw that the Chi Rong's objective was her Senior Martial Brother Han standing behind her. She was only bait.

"I have no interest in fighting you." Han Li smiled and spoke with a casual tone.

"Hehe, since you've already entered the restriction, you cannot refuse. Brother Han, please take my attack." The youth raised his hand. With a red flash from his palm, it turned into a scarlet claw, revealing five sharp points that glistened like red gems.

Han Li frowned. Without another word, the youth swiped his scarlet claw through the air.

Space ripped as the five scarlet talons shot forward. They instantly vanished after a flash of red light.

Han Li's expression stirred, suddenly raising his arm, spreading out his pitch-black fingers in front of him.

Suddenly, the air thirty meters in front of him violently shook where five claw streaks appeared and blurred towards him.

Han Li's expression faintly changed when he saw the scarlet streaks appear. They were originally only a foot-long, but when they reappeared, they were three-meters-long. The attacks were continually absorbing nearby spiritual Qi and surging in size.

But before the streaks grew close, Han Li already sensed an astonishing spiritual pressure directly approaching him. If his cultivation was weaker, the claw streaks would've froze his body and mind, preventing him from reacting as the streaks overwhelmed him.

As Han Li felt completely aghast, his pitch-black fingers suddenly flashed with light, producing a small black mountain in the air. In a flash, it immediately turned thirty-meters-large.

Han Li was now securely protected with the black mountain in front of him.

Red light flashed, followed by successive muffled bangs.

A burning heat drifted towards Han Li, causing him to feel slight burns, but the mountain remained floating in the air, completely unharmed.

"Yi!" Zhu Yinzi was shocked by this result.

Han Li's spiritual sense quickly brushed past the Essensefused Mountain and his face sunk.

Bang. He slapped his palm on top of the small mountain.

The mountain promptly spun in the air, now pointing the side that was struck in Han Li's direction.

On the mountain's black surface, there were partially melted five inch-deep claw marks.

Han Li coldly snorted and pressed his black hand on the mountain.

Black light roamed across the mountain for a spell, mending all the damage that it had incurred.

"Since Brother Zhu wants a lesson, I'll have to provide instruction." With that said, he blurred, appearing at the side of the mountain.

He flapped his wings, revealing an azure Peng phantom from his back.

Meanwhile, a chain of booms sounded as four azure tornados soared to the sky around him, filling the air with their screams.

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Zhu Yinzi glanced at the azure Peng phantom from a distance as it spread out its wings.

Suddenly, the four tornados ruptured, sending countless azure wind blades in Zhu Yinzi's direction.

For a time, only glaring azure light and tearing winds could be observed from the light barrier.

When Zhu Yinzi saw the ferocious might of Han Li's attack, his expression froze.

However, his fame was well earned. He took a deep breath and his wings swelled several times in size before he wildly fanned them.

Red light brilliantly flashed and dense blooms of flame began to spread all around.

With his hands forming an incantation gesture, Zhu Yinzi formed countless scarlet flame arrows and released them.

The barrage's momentum was no lesser than Han Li's wind blades.

In an instant, the air was divided into two, with one half filled with azure streaks and faint azure blades, and the other filled with sparkling red light and roiling flames.

A thin line formed where the attacks met. As azure and red light intertwined, countless explosions boomed.

For a time, the two sides found themselves in deadlock.

Han Li remained expressionless, but his incantation gestures changed and the sound of thunder faintly sounded from his sleeve. With two claps, two bowl-thick bolts of golden lightning shot out of his sleeve, fusing in midair to form a dense golden lightning wyrm.

Under Han Li's mental control, the lightning wyrm waved its head and tail, flashing a hundred meters forward right in front of Zhu Yinzi. As rolls of thunder sounded out from it, it pounced at him.

The lightning wyrm's incredible speed frightened even Zhu Yinzi.

Without another thought, Zhu Yinzi spat out a scarlet ball gleaming with light.

Boom. The ball and the flood dragon collided, resulting in a blinding light. Soon after, the spiritual Qi roiled and turned into a ten-meter-wide fire tornado that soared to the sky. The tornado was mixed with sparks of golden lightning and thunder repeatedly clapped from it. A burning wind spread out in every direction.

Under the pressure, Zhu Yinzi unconsciously took several steps back and turned to look in Han Li's direction.

Startled, his face vastly changed.

Han Li was no longer standing in his original place. Rather, he brought Lei Lan near the ground at the edge of the light barrier as if they were about to leave.

In his fury, Zhu Yinzi raised his arm and pointed at him.

With a rustle of wind, red line briefly flickered and shot forward.

However, Han Li was already prepared. With a raised brow, he pointed back.

Red light flashed and a similar red line was launched. It was a fire spirit thread!

A crackle sounded. The two lines flashed in midair, accurately striking one another. AS a result, Han Li's fire thread was repelled with slight damage, while Zhu Yinzi's line was disappeared entirely.

A short moment later, Han Li and Lei Lan flickered, reappearing outside of the arena barrier.

The nearby spectators took several steps back and looked at the two with astonishment.

Seeing he could do nothing to prevent Han Li from leaving, he raised his voice and harshly shouted, "Brother Han, you've fled without fighting. Do you not fear tarnishing your clan's reputation?"

Han Li glanced back at him and indifferently said, "You should understand my thoughts. We can't determine an outcome in a short amount of time. I also carry a heavy responsibility, so we'll only be able to fight later."

Soon after, he spread his wings and soared to the distant sky without care.

Lei Lan's expression wavered and she eventually followed after Han Li.

When Zhu Yinzi saw Han Li bluntly depart, his expression sank.

From the side, Hong Sha hesitantly asked, "Senior Martial Brother Zhu, do you want to pursue them?"

Zhu Yinzi snorted, "How would we? We can't fight outside the sparring arena. I didn't think that he would leave so quickly after fighting. Although we've only exchanged two blows, we discovered that he's proficient in wind and lightning, so it wasn't a wasted effort. Additionally, we've noticed his small mountain treasure, which blocked my scarlet flame claw. How troublesome. We'll have to go back and think of a way to destroy him."

With a careful heart, the woman only uttered a word of acknowledgment.

Thus, the two descended and gathered with the Chi Rong in the crowd before departing.

The remaining Flying Spirit Tribe members then began to discuss the appearance of Han Li.

Jin Yue stared at the pitiful silver-robed Lei Lan and coldly asked, "Did I not instruct you three times over to not travel alone? Why did you go and fight the Chi Rong at the sparring stage?"

At that moment, the Chi Rong Grand Elder was sitting in the first floor hall of their residence with an icy face.

Elder Shi sat at her side. He also appeared displeased.

Lei Lan appeared bloodlessly pale.

Bai Bi and Han Li stood at the side. Bai Bi was silent, restless, and hung his head while Han Li appeared calm.

Not long after Han Li brought back Lei Lan, the two elders immediately discovered what happened and rushed over. They were giving a harsh rebuke to the two holy disciples.

Although the one to blame was Lei Lan, Bai Bi hadn't done anything to stop her and shared responsibility.

Lei Lan eventually muttered, "Gran Elder, that Chi Rong disciple Hong Sha had a Lightning Star Stone. If I could acquire it, I have at least a thirty percent chance of later entering the Great Spirit General-stage. My judgement wavered..."

Jin Yue resentfully said, "A Lightning Star Stone? It is no wonder you were tempted, but that wasn't a reason to take such careless actions. Your lives and cultivation are the life and death of the clan. You should understand the weight of your actions. In order to nurture the two of you, our clan had provided you with countless medicines and treasures, allowing you to reach this cultivation stage in a short time, and will continue to do so in the future. If this were not the case, you wouldn't have reached spirit general stage, no matter your talents."

Lei Lan didn't reply and simply wore a face of shame.

As she thought of something to say, Elder Shi smiled and said, "Alright Elder Jin. Although Lei Lan has been rash, Fellow Daoist Han managed to arrive in time and nothing of consequence occurred. Fellow Daoist Han, how do you see the situation?"

"The Chi Rong most likely had doubts about me and wanted to test my skill," Han Li replied with a smile.

Elder Shi chuckled and said, "I heard that you stood on equal grounds with Zhu Yinzi and even withdrew yourself. A very wise decision."

"I understand how important this matter is," Han Li replied.

Jin Yue pondered for a moment and spoke with unquestionable authority, "From this day, none of you three will take a step outside this building. You may only rest and cultivate. For other matters, hand them over to us to deal with."

"Yes, Grand Elder!" Bai Bi and Lei Lan respectfully answered.

Han Li offered a salute to express his agreement.

To this day, Han Li's identity in the Tian Peng had been odd. He was a holy disciple in name, but in truth, he was closer to a guest official. And with Tian Peng making demands of him, he could only be polite in return.

Once Jin Yue and Elder Shi left, Han Li and the three entered and remained in secluded cultivation.

Two weeks later, Jin Yue and the other Flying Spirit Tribe elders assembled on top of Jade Emperor Peak, discussing something.

Two months later, several thousand huge birds and flying insects rushed past a desolate yellow plateau.

Mounted on top of the birds and insects were winged beings.

They had set off from Jade Emperor Peak and were on their way to the entrance of the earth abyss.

Han Li and the Tian Peng were saddled on white huge birds at the center of the group.

Although the group was large and they've been flying for quite some time, very little was said on the trip.

Han Li also sat cross-legged on his bird and was silently looking around him. The entrance to the earth abyss was much farther from Jade Emperor Peak than he imagined.

Suddenly, there was an uproar from the Flying Spirit Tribe members from the front and a few of them shouted in alarm. The group suddenly flowed down.

Han Li's expression stirred and he immediately sent his spiritual sense to the front.

Five hundred kilometers in front of them, a huge wall had suddenly appeared before them. It was azure-grey and was over a kilometer tall. The wall spread to either side as far as the eye could see.

Every three hundred meter segment on the wall, there stood a pure-white jade pillar.

The pillar was only thirty-meters-tall but its surface gleamed with azure light and was covered in mysterious talisman markings.

To the side of the huge wall, there was a dense gathering of round buildings that were a hundred meters tall. There seemed to be several thousand in number.

Above these buildings flew a myriad of Flying Spirit Tribe beings that were awaiting them.

The holy disciples and the elders gradually drew closer before coming to a stop.

"Greetings, Elders!" An azure-armored middle-aged man flew out towards them and saluted them from a distance.

"So this year, my old pal Jin Feng was on duty. How fortunate. Brother Jin, you should've received the information we've given you." From Han Li's side, several people flew out.

This included an old woman with a cane, a middle-aged man with snow-white hair, and an old man with azure thorns on his face.

They were the most influential of the council of elders and were speaking to the middle-aged man.

Even they appeared very respectful when facing this azure-armored man.

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Han Li glanced at the azure-armored man and felt his heart tremble.

His cultivation was unfathomably deep, no lesser than the three grand elders that have rushed to meet him. It was no wonder they were so polite.

Furthermore, this person's azure-armor was somewhat particular. Its designs were quite simple and its surface was a dull grey, but it has its talisman characters similar to decorative patterns. But when Han Li brushed his spiritual sense past the armor, it gave him a familiar sensation. He took another glance at it, then suddenly widely opening his eyes as if he saw something inconceivable.

If he was correct, the so-called azure armor should've been something condensed from extremely concentrated baleful Qi. This explained why the aura gave him a familiar feeling.

Despite the amount of baleful Qi on his body, he appeared well and was able to use it to create armor.

This ability was truly outrageous.

In his alarm, he looked around and noticed others that were wearing azure armor among the Flying Spirit Tribe.

Each of them wore armor of varying colors.

Blue light flashed from Han Li's eyes and he narrowed his sight.

Their armor was also formed from baleful Qi. But because of their weaker cultivation or lacking baleful Qi, their armor appeared vague as if they weren't as condensed.

When Han Li saw the different armors formed by baleful Qi, he was deeply shocked and began to ponder about them.

At that moment, the azure-armored man looked at the crowd behind the three grand elders and wore a smile.

"How could I forget about our tribe's three hundred year trial. However, the demons in the closest earth abyss are agitated. If you wait another two years, I wouldn't agree with having the trial."

The old man chuckled, "That is why we moved the date of the trial earlier when we heard your news. There shouldn't be a problem starting now, right?"

The azure-armored man indifferently answered, "No. Although the dark Qi is more dangerous than usual, an official eruption will take a year at least. However, the dark demons underground will not stay in the nest levels, so I can't guarantee that the demons on the first three layers will be spirit general grade. The chances of encountering high-grade earth abyss demons will be much higher, but those at demon king-level won't likely appear. As the dangerous ones, if you find them to be too harmful, don't blame me for not warning you."

"So long as no demon king-grade existences appear, the trial will go on," the white-haired man said with a firm voice.

The old woman frowned and slowly said, "I have no objections. If we miss this opportunity, we won't be able to conduct the trial for at least another hundred years. Many of our branches cannot wait that long."

The tattooed old man muttered to himself for a moment and nodded with a sigh.

The azure-armored man chuckled at their approval and raised his hand to the air.

A fist-sized azure light ball shot out. In a flash, it strangely appeared a kilometer in the air.

Following the explosion of the light ball, a huge world-shaking boom shook the air and a halo of azure light rushed out from the result.

Soon after, a ten-meter-wide azure sun rose to the sky, shining with a blinding light.

The armored Flying Spirit Tribe beings behind the azure-armored man immediately separated into two lines, forming a path in the air.

Their cultivation all differed, but their silent and disciplined movement produced a formless pressure.

When the others saw this, the various elders were better off, showing only a brief change in expression, but Han Li and the other holy disciples became restless with most wearing expressions of astonishment.

The three elders in front then waved their arms behind them before moving forward together.

Suddenly, the entire group went ahead and slowly passed through the armored soldiers in the air.

Mounted on top of a huge bird, he narrowed his eyes as he looked at the armored soldiers to either side.

He found that most of them wore cold, indifferent faces apart from occasionally looking at them with curious eyes. There were also those that were younger and possessed lesser cultivation.

The lowest cultivation among them was at Core Formation level.

And there were many from higher cultivation levels, many of which included those at Great Spirit General-stage.

Han Li felt apprehension.

The earth abyss guards that are stationed here were about the same as the guards of Deep Heaven City.

However, their numbers were far less than the Deep Heaven Guards. But their elites were at a level far beyond those from Deep Heaven City. And considering the people stationed here often fight the demons that emerge from the earth abyss, they have richer combat experience than other Flying Spirit Tribe members.

From the buildings constructed here, it also appears that earth abyss guards live here as well.

As Han Li's thoughts churned in his mind, the group of holy disciples and elders arrived in front of the span of buildings.

The group of elders separated and started guiding the disciples to nearby residences to rest. The trial would soon begin on the morning of the next day.

The Tian Peng also entered one of the residences.

Jin Yue and Elder Shi guarded the first floor while the holy disciples were each given their own floor so they could rest without disturbance.

Han Li frowned. Although he was happy there was a night of rest, Jin Yue and Elder Shi had ordered them to remain inside and stay on different floors. It would interrupt his earlier plans.

Han Li sat cross-legged on his bed, but he didn't meditate. Instead, his eyes wandered as his mind began to sink into thought.

Not long after, he seemed to have thought of something and chuckled to himself. He then stood up and went to the first floor.

When he appeared at the bottom of the stairs, he saw Jin Yue and Elder Shi with their eyes closed as they sat down. But immediately after, they open their eyes at the same time and looked over in his direction.

Han Li felt his heart tremble.

"Fellow Daoist Han, why aren't you getting proper rest? Could it be that you have something urgent to attend to?" Rather than Jin Yue, it was Elder Shi who spoke.

"I have something I wish to do and I want to take a trip outside," Han Li calmly stated.

"What is it?" Jin Yue said with a trace of dissatisfaction.

With the trial right around the corner, she hoped that Han Li would obediently rest in his room, rather than be distracted by other things.

Han Li smiled and gave an honest answer, "In truth, it isn't much. I found that the earth abyss guard's armor was quite peculiar as it was formed from baleful Qi. I was hoping of finding someone that could explain the mysteries behind it."

Jin Yue paused and then said with an odd expression, "You mean the Four Fiend Armor Technique? The technique requires an immense amount of baleful Qi to use. Otherwise, the technique would be too weak. What do you plan to do with it?"

Elder Shi also felt somewhat surprised.

Han Li smiled and formed an incantation gesture. Golden light shined from his body, emitting an astonishingly deep aura. A dense wave of baleful Qi soon burst out from the depths of his body.

The baleful Qi he refined with the Vajra Arts began to concentrate all over his body.

Both of the elders were astonished by the display of baleful Qi.

"With such dense baleful Qi, it is no wonder you're interested in the Four Fiend Amor Technique. Hehe, but you don't need to go outside. The technique isn't kept secret, and I'm proficient in it as well. I can hand over the entire cultivation art to you. With the immense baleful Qi on your body, you may even use the technique tomorrow during the trial." As Elder Shi heartily laughed, he spoke the words that Han Li already anticipated.

When he saw so many ordinary earth abyss guards comprehend this technique, the Tian Peng elders likely knew this technique as well.

Now, his assumption was proven correct.

Suppressing his joy, Han Li respectfully answered, "Senior Shi, I can't thank you enough. But are the techniques easy to comprehend? Would I be able to use them after a night?"

Elder Shi waved his hand and casually said, "Hehe, so long as Fellow Daoist Han assists Lei Lan and Bai Bi through the trial, I'm the one who should be thanking you. Don't worry, the technique isn't particularly complicated, and with your cultivation, you'll be able to cultivate several layers in a single night. As for the last few layers, they require immense baleful Qi, so you won't be able to use them."

Han Li nodded several times in response.

Jin Yue raised no objections. Instead, she simply closed her eyes again.

Elder Shi took out a finger-sized bamboo tube from his robes and muttered to it for a moment before tossing it over to Han Li, "I've put the technique in there. You may return."

"Many thanks, Senior!" Han Li then took the tube and climbed up the stairs without delay.

He sat cross-legged on his bed and pressed the tube against his forehead and immersed it with his spiritual sense.

Suddenly, an ancient green script flowed through Han Li's mind, his face becoming entirely still.

Not long after, Han Li put away the tube into his storage pouch and his face relaxed.

The set of techniques was as Elder Shi had described. They were simple and he'd be able to condense a layer of baleful armor.

With that thought, Han Li rested his hands on his knees and began to comprehend the technique.

During this time, a layer of faintly black baleful Qi began to appear from his body.

The baleful Qi roiled and went still for a time. Not long after, his surroundings began to violently stir, creating a faint black wind around him and blurring Han Li's figure from sight.

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On the morning of the second day, Bai Bi and Lei Lan descended to the first flood and quietly joined their elders who were calmly standing there as if they were waiting for something.

Both of the elders appeared somewhat hopeful, causing the two holy disciples to feel somewhat baffled. They also looked turned to look at the stairwell.

In the time it took to finish a meal, footsteps sounded from above. In a blur, Han Li appeared at the bottom of the stairs with a smile on his face.

Elder Shi's eyes lit up and he asked, "Did you succeed?"

Han Li smiled, "Many thanks for your kindness. Senior. I almost have it entirely grasped. I should be able to use it to face the enemy."

Jin Yue closely examined Han Li's face and said, "Very good. This trial will prove much more dangerous than normal. Although Fellow Daoist Han possesses the cultivation of a high-grade Spirit General, I fear you will counter powerful enemies you won't be able to face. That is why Elder Shi and I have prepared to hand over a clan protecting treasure to you. As such, if you truly come across something unexpected, you'll be able to defend yourself."

"A clan protecting treasure," Han Li said with a tone of surprise.

"That's right. This is the Lightning Wyrm Scissors. Take it." As she spoke, she shook her sleeve and sent out an azure light.

Han Li unconsciously raised his hand and took the treasure into his hand.

Under closer examination, he found that the scissors were only a half-foot long and appeared quite old. Its surface was a deep azure, but the mysterious silver talisman designs showed it was no ordinary item.

Han Li stroked his hand across it and sensed a deep icy Qi. With joy in his heart, he asked, "Seniors, are you truly lending this to me?"

"In truth, there were several other treasures in the tribe that are more suitable for use in the earth abyss, but I fear those treasures will take up too much time to refine.

These Lightning Wyrm Scissors aren't nearly as troublesome. So long as you infuse it with spiritual power, you will be able to use its awesome power to strike down your enemies. As a result, the treasures are also easily seized by enemies as well. Fellow Daoist Han should use it with care." Jin Yue solemnly warmed.

"Many thanks, Senior. I will take great care using it." Han Li didn't hold back and took the treasure with a smile, knowing that this grand treasure was being handed over in order to help preserve the safety of the holy disciples.

Jin Yue nodded and spoke to both Bai Bi and Lei Lan but took out nothing else.

Han Li didn't pay this any mind.

The two should've already been given treasures before they parted from the holy city. During Lei Lan's battle with Hong Sha in the sparring arena, the golden gourd she used should've been one of those treasures.

A short moment later, the five walked out from the building and soared to the sky.

There were various other branches that had gathered there earlier.

This time, none of them were mounted on birds or flying insects. They were all floating with their wings.

Also, the holy disciples of the Flying Spirit Tribe's various branches were gathering together, separated from their elders.

The holy disciples were now much different than the day before. They wore solemn expression and were whispering to one another.

Han Li blinked, simply bringing his fellow holy disciples to the corner of the group and remaining silent.

But not long after, Han Li sensed people looking at him. As his heart stirred, he looked back in their direction.

Three hundred meters away, there was a short skinny girl examining him.

Her skin was dark, but strange black tattoos were drawn on her neck.

When she saw Han Li looking at her, she smiled, revealing a mouthful of pure-white teeth.

Han Li felt his heart tremble!

He quickly swept his spiritual sense over to her and found that she was also a high-grade Spirit General. The strange aura on her body faintly gave him a sense of danger as if she cultivated a peculiar technique.

Han Li showed none of this on his face, instead merely moving his lips.

Standing at the side, Bai Bi with his eyes shut suddenly heard Han Li's voice transmission.

He opened his eyes in a start and glanced at the skinny short girl. His face greatly changed and he hastily lowered his head.

With a voice of awe, Bai Bi replied in a voice transmission, "Brother Han, that is the Sevenpass Race's Ao Qing. She is even more famous than Zhu Yinzi and is one of the most capable disciples of our generation. However, she is incredibly ruthless and her temperament is odd. She'll take the lives of others without provocation. Brother Han had best avoid her attention."

Han Li frowned. Just as he thought why that woman was examining him, he suddenly sensed a gloomy look aimed at him. This time, he felt genuine hostility.

Han Li's expression sank and he looked to the side.

At another corner of the crowd, he saw Zhu Yinzi and the other Chi Rong disciples look at them with hostile expressions.

Han Li coldly returned a glance and expressionlessly looked away.

Given the Chi Rong's attitude to the Tian Peng, they were certain to be up to no good. Han Li felt ill at ease over the matter.

Because Han Li and company had come somewhat later, they didn't have to wait for much longer.

An hour later, the three grand elders from the council and the azure-armored man appeared in front of the crowd. The entire group then began to move forward and arrived at a small mountain in front of a huge wall.

For some unknown reason, the wall was completely barren. There weren't any patrols or watches above the wall.

The azure-armored man then walked in front of the elders and spoke a few words, pointing at the wall.

A huge rumbling sounded and the wall stirred. In a flicker of rainbow light flashed, a faint silver spell formation appeared.

When the azure-armored man saw this, he immediately opened his mouth and spat a purple wooden badge.

The badge brightly lit up and released a purple beam of light. It flickered several times before striking the heart of the formation.

Suddenly, the silver spell formation roiled and beaming light roamed. The formation suddenly vanished, but a huge silver gate appeared underneath the wall.

The door was a hundred meters tall, gleaming with an icy light. From appearance and weight, it appeared to be formed from pure silver.

The azure-armored man wordlessly put away the wooden badge and swept his sleeve to the huge door in the distance.

Suddenly, a purple light mist swept out and struck the huge gate.

A huge gong sounded as the silver gate slowly opened.

A grey demonic wind immediately blew out from the gate. As it passed, the holy disciples shuddered, feeling as if knives were being pressed against their skin.

It was a truly odd sensation.

When Han Li felt how odd the wind was, blue light shined from his eyes.

The huge gate opened. Without any hesitation, the holy disciples began to walk through the gate.

When Han Li saw what was behind it, he felt his blood run cold.

As far as the eye could see, there was only black land, completely lacking light and even a single blade of grass. Be it stone or sand, it was only black as well.

The sky was covered in a grey mist that appeared quite dense. It was impossible to see through from below and seemed to have no end.

There were cracks in between the mist and the earth about a hundred meters tall, but one could hear winds harshly whistled without end as if the cracks would consume everything.

Everyone that heard this couldn't help but feel a chill.

'So this is the earth abyss gate. It looks dangerous as expected,' Han Li muttered to himself.

The old woman with a cane then said, "Alright, we've arrived. Apart from holy disciples, no one else will take a step forward. The earth abyss gate is a myriad kilometers outside the mist."

Although her voice wasn't loud, everyone could clearly hear it. Those that were restless immediately calmed down.

The white-haired man chuckled, "Since we're here, you all must be anxious. Let's begin making the details clear."

The old woman glanced at the white-haired man and calmly said, "The council of elders would like to inform you that the demons marked for this trial will be different from the past few. If you bring back an Abyss Flame Fruit, you will have passed. This spirit fruit is different from the others in that it is found in the areas that are darkest and filled with filthy Qi. The fruit needs to be about five hundred years of maturation and each tree only bears one fruit. The darkness on the first level won't be enough for the fruit to grow. Of course, if you're lucky, you could find it there. On the second floor, they may grow there in a small number, but we don't guarantee anything. The third floor is where it is guaranteed that the fruit will grow and in great numbers as well. Act in accordance with your judgment. You have three months. After those months, the gate will open again to receive you, regardless if you've succeeded. I hoped you listened well." The old woman's voice was powerful. Knowing the odds of survival through the trial, Han Li listened to each and every one of her words carefully.

The tattooed old man sullenly commanded, "Since we've told you the details of the trial, you may set off. In three months, I hope I will see most of you again. As for the others, you will turn back. The Devil Sealing Gate will close again."

With a wave of his sleeve, he made his way back to the outside without any intention of looking around.

The white-haired man and the old woman exchanged a glance before closely following after him. The others in the council of elders silently followed them. As for the branch elders, they took a few looks at their clan's holy disciples before heading back.

Only a small portion of them sent them off with a voice transmission.

In the blink of an eye, the huge gate disappeared, leaving behind a few hundred holy disciples looking at each other in dismay.

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"Hehe, what are you all still thinking about? Could it be that you intend to stay here until three months later?" A burst of loud laughter erupted from within the crowd, following which a humanoid figure sped toward the distance as a white blur.

There were several people behind him following along in silence, and they appeared to be brethren of his.

Seeing as someone was leading the way, many people in the crowd also banded together to fly toward the rift beneath the mist.

Moments later, only a small portion of people remained on the same spot.

These people were chatting among themselves, completely unfazed by the fact that their competition was getting a headstart on them.

Han Li and the Chi Rong beings were among these people.

Following a resounding boom, the massive gate behind them slowly fell shut. Five-colored light swirled over its surface, following which the gate disappeared without a trace.

A stir ran through the remaining people upon seeing this. "Let's go." Han Li swept his gaze across the giant wall where the silver gate had disappeared before waving a hand and flying through the air as a streak of azure light following a flap of his wings.

Bai Bi and Lei Lan immediately followed along as a ball of silver light and a ball of golden light, respectively.

As soon as Han Li and the others departed, several beings from foreign races focused their attention on his group.

Aside from Chi Rong beings, there were a few holy disciples from other unfamiliar Flying Spirit Race branches, and all of them looked on with cold and sinister expressions as Han Li and the other gradually faded into the distance.

Only after Han Li and the others had disappeared into the mist for a long while did Zhu Yinzi also spur the Chi Rong beings into action.

At this moment, there were only beings a dozen or so Flying Spirit Race branches remaining at the foot of the massive wall.

Most of these were branches that were quite powerful and situated very high up on the rankings. However, these people all wore indecisive expressions, and they were casting occasional glances toward the two of the remaining holy disciples.

One of them was a thin female child with dark skin; she was none other than Ao Qing of the Sevenpass Race. In contrast, the other person was a tall and broad man in a suit of black wooden armor. The man appeared to over 30 years of age with an unsettling light flashing within his two pairs of eyes. There was a broadsword that was of the same stature as him strapped to his back, and it was shimmering with cold golden light. It was unknown why he didn't place such a large object into a spatial storage device.

For some reason, all of the remaining holy disciples of the other power factions were waiting to see what these two were to do, and no one else departed.

After a while, the stalemate continued, and Ao Qing's brows furrowed slightly. She then giggled before flying away with a dozen or so of her brethren.

A cold light flashed through the eyes of the four-eyed man upon seeing this, and he strode forward, covering a distance of several tens of feet with a single step, pursuing Ao Qing as he also departed. Three men from the same race who were just as imposing as he was followed along behind him in silence.

All of the other Flying Spirit Tribe beings' expressions eased at the sight of their departure.

Many people even immediately gathered together to discuss some things.

After a while, these people departed in several successive waves as if everything had been planned out in advance.

Thus, the several hundred Flying Spirit Tribe holy disciples all disappeared into the black lands up ahead.

The area near the massive wall was now devoid of all beings.

At the same time, Han Li, Bai Bi, and Lei Lan were slowly flying through the air at low altitudes of just over 100 feet. The completely still and motionless grey mist up above was only just over 200 feet above their heads, and it stretched for as far as the eyes could see. That, paired with its monotonous and stifling grey hue made for a very depressing and oppressive effect.

What was even more curious was that despite the fact that they were in such a narrow space, there were occasional gusts of stiff winds that blew toward them from up ahead, and those winds were quite chilly.

Of course, these winds couldn't harm Han Li and the others, who were all at the Deity Transformation Stage, and they were able to easily shield themselves with spiritual light.

Even though many holy disciples had set off before them, most people didn't take the same path. Instead, many of them intentionally looped around in a large circle before advancing from another direction. This was to avoid encountering the holy disciples from the other branches prior to entering the earth abyss, thereby potentially leading to conflicts.

Han Li had also done the same.

After flying for just over 50 kilometers, he led the other two holy disciples to stray away from their original trajectory, choosing to forge ahead from another direction instead.

A distance of over 5,000 kilometers wasn't all that far at all for holy disciples like them.

As such, even though they'd intentionally slowed their speed, they still arrived at their destination after two hours.

The scenes up ahead had undergone a change. The sea of mist that had originally hung quite low in the air had risen to a higher altitude here, and the frosty winds sweeping toward them were much fiercer here. The color of the winds had also turned into a dark grey, and as it buffetted their bodies, layers of black ice and frost instantly materialized on their spiritual light barriers.

Of course, these winds were still unable to pose any threat to Han Li's trio, but all of them thickened the layer of protective spiritual light around their bodies.

A while later, all of them had emerged from those strange black winds, and they appeared in an unfamiliar place.

This was a flat space with an indeterminate radius, and their surroundings were enshrouded by those frosty black winds. There was still the same grey mist hanging in the air, but its altitude had risen to over 10,000 feet, and it was tumbling and surging erratically, creating a vastly different sight from the sea of mist they witnessed during the previous parts of their journey. However, none of that caught the attention of Han Li's trio. Instead, all of them were looking down below.

The black land down below had completely disappeared, and a gargantuan bottomless abyss stood in its place. There was black mist wafting throughout the entire abyss, and gusts of frosty black winds would occasionally billow out from within.

Han Li scanned his eyes downward to discover that he was unable to determine the dimension of this abyss, just as he'd been unable to ascertain the dimensions of the space they were currently situated in.

The three of them hung in mid-air by the abyss, and in the face of this vast space and colossal abyss, they were as insignificant as mere ants.

"This appears to be the gate of the earth trial. Let's descend, but be on your guard. Even though it's unlikely that we'll encounter earth abyss demons right away, it's still better to be safe than sorry." After appraising the abyss for a short while, Han Li issued a calm instruction for flapping his wings and plunging into the abyss, disappearing into the black mist following a few flashes.

Bai Bi and Lei Lan immediately followed suit.

Han Li slowly descended into the abyss with azure light flashing all of his body, and seven or eight fist-sized moonlight stones hovering around him. These stones were radiating white light that illuminated everything within an area of over 300 feet.

Looking around at the tumbling mist nearby, Han Li heaved a faint internal sigh.

The mist hadn't been very dense when he had first descended into the abyss, and he was able to clearly survey his surroundings even without using his spirit eyes.

However, after descending for tens of thousands of feet, the mist immediately became several times denser.

With Bai Bi and Lei Lan following close behind him, he naturally wasn't going to use his spirit eyes unless the situation absolutely demanded its usage, so he summoned these moonlight stones instead.

As such, he was able to see his surroundings with relative clarity.

However, it was just as he'd expected; this earth abyss gate was extremely vast, and even though they were so deep within the abyss already, they were still yet to encounter any demons.

This was naturally something that Han Li really liked to see.

After descending for a while longer, the mist down below suddenly became more sparse, and the black winds that had appeared from time to time had also disappeared.

Han Li and the others stirred upon seeing this. They knew that they were about finally about to reach the first level of the earth abyss.

A short while later, Han Li peered through the thin mist down below with narrowed eyes, and finally saw something different.

A black and yellow stretch of land had appeared before his eyes, and it as quite a lush land with massive trees growing on it and even a few strange-looking grey birds circling around in the air.

As soon as Han Li and the others emerged from the mist, Bai Bi murmured, "This should be the world of the earth abyss. It doesn't look like anything special."

"The first level of the earth abyss has been corrupted by the aura of darkness for a long time, but it's the most shallow of the seven layers. As such, aside from some demon beasts of the lowest caliber, there are also large numbers of normal beasts residing here. However, all of these beasts are extremely violent, and the vast majority of them are ferocious carnivorous beasts. The most powerful ones among these beasts are not inferior in power to low-grade demon beasts," Lei Lan explained.

Han Li remained completely expressionless, as if he were looking at but not seeing the scenes that lay before him. In reality, he had instantly swept his spiritual sense across an area with a radius of over 1,000 kilometers, and didn't discover the presence of any holy disciples or other powerful beings. It appeared that this place was definitely safe.

"Let's go down," Han Li instructed before descending.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi naturally followed along behind him.

An unsettling cry erupted as the grey birds down below discovered the presence of Han Li's trio, and they immediately pounced without any hesitation.

Han Li narrowed his eyes, and only now did he catch a clear glimpse of these strange birds. Their beaks were long and thick, and were filled to the brim with sharp fangs. There wasn't a single feather to be seen on their bodies, and all of them had strange grey skin as well as a bent single horn growing on each of their heads.

Han Li harrumphed coldly as he flicked a few fingers through the air.

Several streaks of golden sword Qi shot forth in a flash, instantly puncturing the bodies of these birds. Blood rained down from above as these birds plummeted toward the ground.

However, before their carcasses had even fallen into the forest, a few thunderous roars erupted, following which the ground below began to tremor violently. It appeared that there were many massive beasts fighting over something.

A hint of surprise flashed through Han Li's eyes as he cast his gaze toward the source of the commotion. He then descended to an altitude of just over 1,000 feet and flew toward a direction that he'd decided on in advance.

"According to the holy disciples who'd participated in these trials in the past, there are many entrances from the first to the second level. However, there are only a dozen or so entrances among those that are relatively safe. It's almost impossible to find Infernal Flame Fruits on the first level, so let's head straight to the second level. The entrance that I've chosen is one that's quite secluded. Even though it'll take us more time to get there, we'll be able to avoid the ambushes set up by the enemies of our race," Han Li explained as he flew through the air.

Bai Bi's brows furrowed slightly, seeming opposed to Han Li's proposed course of action, but refrained from saying anything. Meanwhile, Lei Lan simply didn't really care.

Han Li smiled upon seeing this, and he didn't say anything further. Just because he was providing an explanation didn't mean he was discussing the matter with them. Seeing as the Tian Peng Race had asked him to protect these two holy disciples and ensure their success in this trial, then he naturally had to lead the way. The two holy disciples' cultivation bases were far inferior to his, so he wasn't afraid that they'd go against orders.

Thus, the three of them flew wordlessly at a low altitude, heading straight for the entrance to the second level.

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It was said that the earth abyss had seven levels, and each successive level was far more vast than the previous one. Even so, the area of the first level was certainly nothing to be scoffed at. As such, it would take around four to five days for Han Li's trio to reach the entrance they were heading toward.

The journey was quite smooth on the first day. They flew over a dense forest the entire time and occasionally encountered a few groups of suicidal beasts, but no mishaps occurred.

However, on the morning of the second day, all three of them were suddenly struck by the feeling that their surroundings had darkened significantly.

Han Li looked up with a surprised expression to find that the grey mist in the air above, which had been emanating faint light, had disappeared. It had been replaced by a vast expanse of black rocks that were situated in the air at altitudes of over 100,00 feet, and there were stalactites hanging from them.

There were even some lush patches of moss and vines growing along the surface of these rocks.

They'd flown out of the area encompassed by the gate of the earth abyss and finally officially arrived in the first level of the underground world.

Thankfully, the trees here all glowed with a faint light, perhaps due to the fact that they'd been growing in darkness for long periods of time, and there were unknown minerals on the ground that were also shimmering faintly.

As such, their surroundings weren't entirely pitch-black, and they could still see many things even from a distance.

It was just that the feeling in the air had completely changed in that surroundings seemed to have become more sinister and menacing.

Furthermore, the occasional clouds of black mist and gusts of frosty winds that swept toward them further contributed to this harrowing sensation.

However, what was especially worthy of note was that not long after they'd flown into this dark area, Han Li felt his spiritual sense being restricted, and he could only release it out of his body for several hundred feet.

He had mastered the Great Development Technique, so his spiritual sense was far superior to cultivators of the same cultivation base. As such, Bai Bi and Lei Lan were most likely only able to release their spiritual sense for several tens of feet at most.

With that in mind, Han Li cast his spiritual sense behind him, and sure enough, both of the holy disciples were wearing grim expressions on their faces.

However, none of them were all that surprised by this occurrence.

Prior to departing from the holy city, the Tian Peng Race elders had warned them about this.

Not only did intruders like them have their spiritual sense handicapped, even the native dark demon beasts of the earth abyss were also afflicted by this. However, these demon beasts had been dwelling in the earth abyss for a long time, so they were already accustomed to this handicap. In contrast, the beings of the Flying Spirit Race were naturally yet to acclimatize to this, and it was quite an unsettling experience for most.

In spite of this, Han Li remained completely unfazed. After all, it wasn't the first time that he'd encountered a situation where his spiritual sense had been restricted, so he was quite experienced.

After flying onward for several more hours, Han Li's brows suddenly furrowed. He raised a hand and quickly pointed a finger toward the moonlight stones hovering up ahead.

All of these moonlight stones immediately exploded and disappeared into nothingness.

The azure light flashing from Han Li's body also faded as he came to an abrupt halt.

Their surroundings had become blurry and indistinct, and even the black winds sweeping toward them seemed to have cooled even further.

Bai Bi and Lei Lan had also reflexively faltered in their flight, but neither of them knew why Han Li had stopped.

A curious look appeared on Lei Lan's face, but before the two of them had a chance to raise any questions, a gentle buzzing sound suddenly rang out from their surroundings. This sound then gradually intensified, following which countless green specks of light appeared before rapidly converging toward the three of them.

"Yin Spider Wasps!" Lei Lan immediately exclaimed with alarm.

Bai Bi's expression also changed drastically upon hearing this.

"Indeed. These low-grade demonic wasps are the most troublesome to deal with among all of the low-grade demon beasts of the earth abyss. They like to attack all moving and glowing objects, so they must've been attracted by the moonlight stones," Han Li said in a calm voice.

Even without that introduction from Han Li, Lei Lan and Bai Bi were well aware of the behavioral patterns of these wasps.

Within the balls of green light, there were countless tiny sinister creatures with the upper bodies of spiders and the lower bodies of wasps. Their bodies were entirely green in color with an exception of a series of yellow rings, and they gave off a very sinister appearance.

From a rough visual estimation, it appeared that there were over 10,000 of these demonic wasps hanging in the air around them.

As such, even early-Spirit Generals like Bai Bi and Lei Lan were forced to regard the situation with caution.

It wasn't that they were fearful of these mere demonic wasps. It was just that with their vast numbers, killing all of them would expend quite a bit of energy, and they had only just entered the first level, so they didn't want to engage in any unnecessary battles.

However, these demonic wasps didn't appear to be willing to let them leave without a fight, so they could only prepare for battle.

One of them spread open their wings, which were crackling with thin arcs of silver lightning while the other made a hand seal, and faint golden threads of light appeared behind around their body.

Han Li glanced at the two of them before opening his mouth to expel a ball of silver flames.

The fireball transformed into a fist-sized silver Fire Raven in a flash.

The Fire Raven spread its wings before self-detonating on the spot, transforming into over 100 silver sparks that spilled forth in all directions.

An incredible scene then ensued.

As soon as the silver sparks entered the surrounding specks of green light, the latter was instantly snuffed out.

Even though there were only just over 100 of these silver sparks, the green specks of light in the surrounding area were completely unable to bypass them en route to Han Li's trio.

Bai Bi and Lei Lan were quite astonished to see this.

Yin Spider Wasps were renowned for being extremely troublesome to deal with, so they naturally weren't that easy to destroy. These wasps were actually manifestations of a type of dark impure energy, so it was very difficult to kill them with normal attacks. Even if they were slain by physical attacks, they could draw upon the aura of darkness around them to recover to full health in a very short time. The only way to completely eradicate them was to completely destroy their bodies, leaving no trace behind.

That was why these demonic wasps were so renowned as troublesome obstacles despite the fact that they were only low-grade demon beasts. Of course, these demonic wasps only posed such a major hindrance in a place like this that was rife with the aura of darkness. If they were to appear above the ground, then they'd immediately lose this ability.

In fact, many other demon beasts in the earth abyss were significantly more powerful in this environment, and would be severely debilitated if they were to be taken out of their natural habitat.

This was also the main reason why the Flying Spirit Race was able to seal off the entrance to the earth abyss so effectively. If the earth abyss demon beasts didn't possess this glaring weakness, then the Flying Spirit Race wouldn't be able to restrict them so easily.

The Spirit Engulfing Heavenly Flames appeared to be drifting through the air in a gentle and harmless manner, but in reality, every single spark completely incinerated a Yin Spider Wasp as soon as contact was made, and even the aura of darkness within their bodies was completely engulfed.

As such, there was naturally no way for these wasps to recover.

Furthermore, the Spirit Engulfing Heavenly Flames possessed traces of spiritual nature, so they could attack enemies of their own accord even without instructions from Han Li's spiritual sense.

As such, Han Li merely stood in mid-air for a while with his hands clasped behind his back, and all of the Yin Spider Wasps were completely eradicated.

He then waved a hand through the air in a casual manner, and all of the silver sparks converged to form a fist-sized Fire Raven again, which disappeared into his body in a flash.

"Let's go," Han Li prompted before flying ahead as a streak of azure light.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi could only forcibly repress the astonishment in their hearts as they followed along in silence.

Regardless of how conceited they were or what they thought of Han Li, after that display of power, they no longer expressed any signs of opposition to Han Li's orders.

Thus, the three of them travel through this humid forest for a day and a night before finally emerging on the other side.

The scenes up ahead changed drastically, and the trio was greeted by the sight of a strange silver desert. From afar, it appeared that every single grain of sand in the entire desert was emanating a cold light, creating an extremely bleak and barren sight.

"Is my memory playing tricks on me? According to the annotations on the map, this should be a large river; why is it a desert instead?" Han Li hovered in mid-air as he carefully inspected a formation plate with a hint of surprise on his face.

"You're right, Brother Han, this is indeed where a river should be on the map." Bai Bi and Lei Lan were also quite bewildered after inspecting their maps.

"Could it be that the river's dried out, and all of the water has seeped into the second level?" Lei Lan speculated.

"Doesn't look like it. Even if all the water has seeped away, what's this desert doing here?" Han Li immediately shook his head in disagreement.

"Then what do you think happened here, Brother Han?" Bai Bi asked with a smile.

"I don't know, but there's no need for us to delve any further into this matter. We're merely traveling, not conducting a geographic survey of the earth abyss. Let's keep going; just make sure to keep your guard up after we enter the desert," Han Li replied in a calm voice following a brief silence.

"That's true," Bai Bi chuckled.

Thus, the three of them flew into the silver desert up ahead as streaks of spiritual light.

Even though they had spoken about this place in a rather nonchalant manner, all of them reflexively flew a little fast after entering the desert, trying to get away from this slightly unsettling place as quickly as possible.

The three of them flew for tens of thousands of kilometers, but they were still greeted by nothing but silver grains of sand, and not even a single blade of grass had been sighted.

All of a sudden, Han Li's expression changed as blue light flashed through his eyes, and he abruptly turned toward a certain direction. "What's that?"

"What is it, Brother Han?" Bai Bi asked with a hint of alarm.

"There appears to be an oasis over there, and I can detect the scent of blood in the air," Han Li replied in a solemn voice.

"I can also smell that, and it's indeed coming from that direction," Lei Lan chimed in with furrowed brows.

"Could it have been left behind by some earth abyss beasts?" Bai Bi speculated in a hesitant voice.

"That doesn't seem to be the case. The world's origin Qi over there is clearly a little chaotic, which suggests that some kind of ability had been unleashed there. We should go and have a look," Lei Lan suggested.

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"Sure." Bai Bi was rather unwilling to comply with Lei Lan's suggestion, but didn't offer any objections seeing as Han Li hadn't turned down this proposal.

Thus, the three of them changed directions and headed straight toward the place where the scent of blood was emanating from.

After flying for close to 10 kilometers, a smudge of green appeared up ahead, and there really was an oasis there that was around half a kilometer in size.

The three of them arrived in the air above the oasis in the blink of an eye.

In reality, the so-called oasis was black and yellow in color, and there were almost no tall trees there. Most of the plants growing on the oasis were a few short bushes and unknown weeds.

There was a pond that was over 100 feet in size situated at the center of the oasis, but the water within the pond was crimson in color. The bodies of a dozen or so black abyss beasts of different sizes littered the ground beside the pond, and they had all been punctured by a series of stone spikes.

The blood within these carcasses was flowing relentlessly into the pond, and the entire oasis was filled with the nauseating scent of blood and gore.

"Why would these beasts have appeared in the desert? They should be inhabiting the forest that we just passed through," Lei Lan mused with a surprised expression.

"They've only been recently slain. Otherwise, their blood would've coagulated," Bai Bi analyzed after some close inspection.

Meanwhile, Han Li appraised the situation before suddenly flying in circles around the oasis.

Moments later, he returned to his original spot and fixed his gaze on that crimson pond.

"Did you discover something, Brother Han?" Lei Lan asked in a curious voice.

"I have, indeed," Han Li replied as he swept a sleeve toward the ground.

A burst of golden light shot forth before splitting up into seven or eight streaks of sword Qi that disappeared into the ground around the pond.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi both faltered upon seeing this, yet before they realized what was happening, a series of anguished howls suddenly erupted from the spots where the streaks of sword Qi hand punctured the ground, following which several bursts of black blood came flowing to the surface. The nearby ground exploded as several ape-like demons emerged.

Each and every one of these ape demons was several feet tall with two pairs of ears. They were all wielding crude stone spears, but the tips of those spears were emanating faint white light.

As soon as those apes appeared, Bai Bi recalled something before exclaiming, "Those are Resentful Ape Beasts! That means this oasis is an illusion created by a Giant Spirit Flower!"

"Giant Spirit Flower?" Lei Lan exclaimed while Han Li's eyes flashed.

Right at this moment, violent tremors ran through the ground beneath them amid a series of rumbling booms.

At the same time, a crimson shadow flew forth from the blood water in the pond, appearing in front of Han Li in a flash before pouncing viciously toward his face.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi were alarmed to see this, but the crimson shadow was far too fast for them to offer their assistance to Han Li.

However, Han Li himself merely harrumphed coldly as his arm shot forth in a blur.

Following a loud thump, a hand that was as pristine white as jade appeared before him like lightning, catching that crimson shadow firmly in its grasp.

Only then did the holy disciples catch a clear glimpse of the creatures. This was a crimson being that was around as thick as a human arm and resembled a long tongue. There was a fist-sized ball of flesh growing on the front part of its body, which was riddled with black spikes that were around an inch in length each, and all of these spikes were squirming incessantly.

However, it was as if Han Li's hand wasn't even made from blood and flesh as he was able to grasp directly onto those black spikes without any fear of injury.

Right at this moment, five white skulls suddenly emerged from his five fingers. The skulls opened their mouths in unison, and a burst of five-colored flames erupted from within.

Almost in the blink of an eye, the tongue-like creature was frozen into a strip of five-colored ice.

Han Li immediately swatted the frozen creature, and it shattered amid the sound of cracking chinaware before disintegrating into a swath of light.

A thunderous demonic roar erupted from the ground below, and it seemed to be filled with pain and fury. Crimson light swirled within the pond, and the blood water vanished in the blink of an eye. The entire oasis then crumbled amid a resounding boom, revealing a massive object.

The top of the object was absolutely gargantuan, while its bottom was extremely thin. It was a massive demonic flower of a similar size to the oasis that had been present until a moment ago.

The petals of this demonic flower were of the same silver hue as the sand in this desert, but the core of the flower was as crimson as blood and was formed from the blood pond. The tongue-like creature that had just attacked Han Li was only one of its thick filaments.

Not only that, but several tens of those so-called Resentful Ape Beasts were standing atop the flower's gigantic petals, and all of these beasts were looking upward with sinister expressions. At the same time, they made hurling motions with the spears in their hands, and several tens of foot-long stone spikes appeared before flying toward Han Li's trio.

"So this is a Giant Spirit Flower? It is indeed quite interesting, but isn't this flower a mid-grade demon beast? Aren't there supposed to be very few mid-grade demon beasts on the first level?" Han Li mused with a faint smile.

On this occasion, there was no need for him to do anything. Lei Lan and Bai Bi raised their hands in unison, sending for a vast expanse of silver lightning and golden threads that intertwined to pulverize the oncoming stone spikes.

"Just because there are very few of them doesn't mean that they won't appear, Brother Han. On top of that, we chose to commence the trial at a very bad time as this is the exact time period before the demon beast torrent of the earth abyss. Hence, it's not all that strange to see mid-grade demon beasts appear on the first level," Lei Lan explained with furrowed brows.

Even though this was a mid-grade demon beast, it was far less troublesome of an opponent that those Yin Spider Wasps from before, so she remained completely unfazed.

"Is that so? I've heard that this flower's nectar is an exceptional pill refinement ingredient. Seeing as we've encountered one, why don't procure some of this nectar?" Han Li suggested with a smile as he suddenly flicked his 10 fingers downward.

10 small golden swords shot forth from between his fingers, hurtling downward as 10 streaks of golden light.

A loud roar erupted from the core of the flower, following which countless red shadows shot forth, attempting to strike down the flying swords.

If a normal Flying Spirit Race being were to encounter such a ferocious attack, it would be quite a headache for them to deal. However, Han Li merely pointed a finger toward his flying sword, and brilliant golden light erupted from the swords, completely vanquishing the oncoming red shadows.

The golden light then swayed once again to manifest several tens of streaks of identical sword Qi that came raining down from above.

The Resentful Ape Beasts seemed to be aware that they were facing a crisis of life and death upon seeing this, and they let loose sharp screeches as they hurled forth their stone spears. All of the spears also transformed into tens of streaks of white light midflight as they flew toward the streaks of sword Qi.

However, these crude stone spears were naturally no match for the powerful Azure Bamboo Cloudswarm Swords. As such, they were immediately reduced to powdered stone in the face of the sharp flying swords.

Immediately thereafter, the streaks of golden sword Qi merely flew around the Resentful Ape Beasts, and all of them were sliced in half.

At the same time, the streaks of sword Qi sliced viciously into the demonic flower, instantly shredding it into countless pieces. The massive flower crashed heavily onto the ground with large volumes of green liquid flowing from it all over the ground.

The Giant Spirit Flower and those Resentful Ape Beasts had been slain by Han Li in one fell swoop.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi were left with nothing to do, and they could only glance at each other with wry smiles on their faces.

"Alright, I'll go down and get some nectar, and we'll continue in our journey after that," Han Li instructed as he withdrew his flying swords.

He then descended toward the ground before flipping his hand over to produce a small green vial, which he pointed toward the now incomplete core of the flower.

A burst of azure light immediately shot forth, sweeping over the flower's core and extracting balls of pink liquid that entered the vial.

Han Li shook the small vial, and a peculiar fragrance wafted toward him. A smile appeared on his face, and the small vial disappeared amid a flash of azure light.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi also descended before producing containers to extract some nectar for themselves.

"Let's go." Han Li spread his wings and rose into the air again.

Bai Bi immediately followed suit as a streak of golden light. Lei Lan was about to do the same when she cast a glance at the remains of the giant flower on the ground, and for some reason, she decided to flick a finger toward it.

A loud thunderclap erupted as an arc of silver lightning shot forth, striking and destroying the yellow branch that remained connected to the demonic flower.

Only then did she spread her wings and fly toward Han Li and Bai Bi.

Thus, the three of them disappeared in the blink of an eye, and peace and quiet returned to the area.

Two hours later, the ground nearby suddenly tremored, following which several massive black tendrils abruptly emerged from the ground amid a resounding boom. Immediately thereafter, a black demonic flower that was several times larger than the Giant Spirit Flower that had just been destroyed appeared from the ground below.

The flower was like a gigantic mountain, and the tendrils connected to it slapped onto the ground, thereby allowing it to stabilize itself. Right at this moment, an enraged voice sounded from atop the flower. "Who would dare to destroy the spirit flower?"

At the center of the giant black flower, there was a silver wooden chair, atop which sat a slender figure holding a green leather whip with a set of blurry facial features.

Yellow light flashed, and a furry figure suddenly appeared before the silver chair. It immediately half-knelt onto the ground in an extremely respectful manner as it said, "There's no need to be enraged, Mistress. The flower appears to only have been destroyed recently, so the perpetrators couldn't have gotten far away. Allow me to do some investigating first."

"Alright, then. I still have to conduct the sacrificial ceremony, so I'll leave this to you. Regardless of who it is, make sure that they die for what they did," the woman said in a cold voice before cracking her whip into the empty air.

A white rift appeared in a flash, and spatial fluctuations erupted nearby. Immediately thereafter, boundless black mist erupted from within the white rift, and it appeared that space had been torn open by the whip.

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"Yes, Mistress!" The short furry figure shuddered as it ducked its head even lower.

"Go, now. I'll be returning to the third level on my own," the woman instructed before tapping a foot on the massive black flower beneath her.

Black light immediately flashed from the gigantic flower as silver formations of different sizes appeared over its surface. Silver light then flashed and bursts of inky-black mist billowed out from these formations, forming a sea of mist that enshrouded the entire giant flower in the blink of an eye.

A rumbling thunderclap erupted from within the mist, following which the sea of mist was dispelled by gusts of fierce winds amid a few arcs of flashing silver lightning.

The flower and the slender woman abruptly disappeared on the spot, and only the furry figure remained, still half-knelt on the ground.

After around the five minutes, the short humanoid figure finally rose to its feet and slowly raised its head, revealing a set of ape-like facial features and two pairs of ears. Its green eyes were quite small, but they were shimmering with a cold and sinister light.

This was a Resentful Ape Beast with dark yellow fur, and it seemed to have attained intelligence. The demonic ape appraised its surroundings before abruptly opening its mouth to expel a burst of yellow mist that enshrouded the remains of the giant flower.

An incredible turn of events unfolded!

Within this yellow mist, the Giant Spirit Flower quickly disintegrated into a vast expanse of viscous green liquid. The mist then swept up this green liquid and drew it into the demonic ape's stomach.

The ape then closed its eyes while green light appeared within its nostrils and four ears. At the same time, its yellow fur had turned green and was shimmering faintly.

This Resentful Ape Beast stood still on the spot for a long while two of its four ears suddenly twitched slightly.

Not long after this, a ball of red light flashed from the distance.

There was a portly man within the red light who appeared to be in his thirties, and he had a pair of green wings on his back, as well as a pair of sharp horns on his head. A cunning light was shimmering from his beady eyes, and he was a holy disciple from one of the other branches of the Flying Spirit Race.

For some reason, he had chosen the same route as Han Li and the others, and he appeared to be traveling alone. However, this man appeared to be extremely cautious, so it had naturally already noticed the demonic ape up ahead.

Thus, the fatso stopped in mid-air several hundred feet away from the demonic ape before looking down at it with a hint of surprise on his face.

Even though the demonic ape had converted the remains of the Giant Spirit Flower into liquid and consumed it, the fissures on the ground from when the giant black flower had emerged were quite astonishing to behold.

Meanwhile, the demonic ape stood motionlessly on the spot with his eyes tightly shut while green light flashed within his nose and ears. It seemed to have completely detached itself from the outside world.

As such, this scene struck the onlooker with the illusion that the ape had just fought some kind of gargantuan being and had sustained severe injuries in the process. As a result, it was forced to entering a state of recuperation, thereby rendering it completely defenseless.

That was clearly the conclusion that the holy disciple had arrived at, and a hint of excitement appeared on his face at the sight of the demonic ape.

Even though the objective of this trial wasn't to kill demons, being able to slay a high-grade earth abyss demon beast would undoubtedly earn him bountiful rewards such as its demon core, as well as other ingredients and materials that could be procured from its body.

No one would be willing to give up a chunk of delicious meat that was there for the taking.

However, this holy disciple was extremely cautious and didn't spring into action in a reckless manner. Instead, he surveyed the demonic ape in silence from afar.

After a long while, the demonic ape still hadn't moved at all, and he was finally lulled into a sense of security. A sinister smile appeared on his face as he abruptly rubbed his hands together.

A ball of flames erupted from between his palms, and the flames then transformed into a log fiery spear that was around 20 feet in length.

The tip of the spear was extremely sharp, and it was enshrouded in a layer of scorching crimson flames.

The holy disciple then spread its wings and sped toward the demonic ape as a streak of red light.

Even though this holy disciple had a rather portly figure, he was unleashed some kind of secret technique that not only allowed him to fly extremely quickly, it also ensured a soundless flight, thereby resulting in an extremely stealthy approach.

In the blink of an eye, the streak of red light had appeared just over 100 feet away from the demonic ape, yet the demon beast remained standing motionlessly on the spot.

The holy disciple was ecstatic to see this, and he immediately thrust forth his spear without any hesitation.

The spear whistled through the air as a streak of red light before puncturing the demonic ape's body in a flash.

However, an elated expression had only just appeared on his face before it changed drastically.

The body of the demonic ape had vanished right after the fiery spear had punctured it, and it was thus revealed to have only been a projection.

"Crap!"

The holy disciple immediately flapped his wings with alarm to try and flee the scene.

However, it was already too late.

A blurry green figure suddenly appeared in the air above before pouncing onto the man's body in a flash. A dull thump erupted, and a ball of green mist exploded before enshrouding the holy disciple's entire body.

A bloodcurdling howl rang out as the red spiritual light around the man's body vanished like snow melting under the scorching sun, having been completely eroded by the green mist.

The holy disciple only flew for around 100 feet further before plummeting to the ground as a puddle of green liquid.

This holy disciple hadn't even had a chance to unleash any of his abilities before he had been slain.

At this moment, the green mist surged before manifesting into that demonic ape again.

The ape took a cold glance at the liquid on the ground before opening its mouth to consume it. In hindsight, this holy disciple really had perished in extremely unfortunate circumstances.

If everything had taken place above the ground, where he would've had full access to his spiritual sense, there was no way that he would've been deceived so easily by a projection, and he certainly would've sensed the demonic ape's presence before it had gotten so close to him.

The demonic ape smacked its lips before murmuring to itself in a thoughtful manner, "That was a Flying Spirit Tribe being, eh? That makes sense, considering the date of their trial's commencement is about to arrive soon. That means the ones who had destroyed the Giant Spirit Flower were most likely from the Flying Spirit Tribe as well."

With that in mind, the demonic ape sniffed the air before turning its gaze toward the direction that Han Li's trio had departed in.

A sinister smile appeared on its face as it flew through the air as a cloud of green mist, disappearing into the distance in the blink of an eye.

"What? You want us to take this?" Lei Lan's brows were tightly furrowed as she appraised the shimmering white jade badge in her had with bewilderment in her eyes.

Bai Bi was also holding an identical object with puzzlement in his eyes.

These two jade badges were both pristine and translucent with silver runes on their surfaces, and it was quite apparent that they were extremely valuable items.

Han Li had suddenly produced them a moment ago and asked the two holy disciples to carry the badges with them.

"Aside from protective properties, the main functions of these badges are aura concealment and location tracking. If some kind of mishap occurs and we end up being separated, we may be able to find one another again using these badges," Han Li explained.

These two badges were treasures known as Limitless Badges, and he'd purchased them in Deep Heaven City for a high price. The current situation was perfect for their usage. At this moment, they had emerged from the desert and were situated on a small mountain.

As a safety precaution, Han Li had produced these two treasures and was asking the two holy disciples to take one each.

"Thank you for your kind offer, Brother Han, but I don't have a habit of carrying other people's treasures," Lei Lan refused with a dark expression.

Bai Bi also shook his head with a faint smile on his face.

Han Li didn't force the issue; he merely stowed the jade badges away with a faint chuckle.

"Seeing as you're unwilling to carry the badges, then so be it. However, seeing as mid-grade demon beasts have appeared even on the first level, it appears our journey won't be devoid of risk as we'd initially thought. I have a flying treasure with concealment abilities. If we continue in our journey using it as a transportation device, it could spare us a lot of trouble," Han Li suggested.

"I'm fine with flying treasures," Lei Lan agreed with a smile on this occasion.

Bai Bi also nodded in response.

Han Li smiled as he swept a hand over his storage bracelet, upon which a yellow flying carriage that was narrow up front and wider at the back appeared before them.

The carriage appeared to have been refined from some kind of spirit wood and seemed to be very light. However, it also appeared to have been very intricately constructed, and many formations seemed to have been set up on it.

The carriage was around 70 to 80 feet in size, so it was more than enough to house the three of them.

This was one of the flying carriages that Han Li had collected prior to departing from Deep Heaven City so he had a variety to choose from depending on the situation.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi glanced at one another before following Han Li onto the carriage.

Han Li patted the flying carriage, casting several incantation seals into it. The carriage immediately tremored before a white barrier of light appeared over it, enshrouding the entire flying carriage within.

As the barrier of light swirled, the entire carriage gradually became transparent until it was virtually invisible.

The carriage then sped into the distance.

"Brother Han, why didn't you use this treasure from the start?" Bai Bi asked with a smile after inspecting the carriage for a while.

"This carriage is very useful, but it has a flaw," Han Li replied in an ambiguous manner.

"And what flaw is that?" Lei Lan was also getting rather curious.

"Hehe, if I want to use this carriage's concealment ability, I have to power it with high-grade wood-attribute spirit stones, and the expenditure is quite high. Furthermore, aside from having decent concealment abilities and speed, this carriage's defensive properties are quite lackluster, so it can easily be destroyed by attacks. As such, I wouldn't normally use it unless it was necessary to do so," Han Li explained.

Bai Bi and Lei Lan nodded in response and didn't make any further inquiries.

Thus, the flying carriage whizzed through the air, disappearing into the distance in the blink of an eye.

Unbeknownst to Han Li's trio, in the extremely far distance behind them, a ball of green mist faltered in mid-air before a low roar of rage erupted from within it. Immediately thereafter, it also accelerated as it hurtled ahead.

Within a canyon that was closes to the gate leading to the first level of the earth abyss, there was a group of seven or eight Flying Spirit Tribe beings advancing in a cautious manner.

The being leading the way had red skin and dark expression on his face. These were none other than Zhu Yinzi and the Chi Rong Race holy disciples.

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The further they advanced in the canyon, the deeper they went into the abyss. The entire space up ahead was completely pitch black without even the slightest hint of light, as if they'd made their way down into an infernal hell.

However, all of the Chi Rong beings' eyes were shimmering with piercing red light, allowing them to see in the darkness, so all of them remained quite calm.

Not long after that, a strange cry erupted from the darkness up ahead, and a vast flock of bird-sized bats with purplish-red eyes pounced toward them while letting loose sharp screeches.

Zhu Yinzi was flying at the forefront of the group, and he merely looked on with expressionlessly at the menacing oncoming bats before abruptly flapping his wings.

Countless feathers shot forth amid a flash of red light before transforming into countless streaks of fire that passed through the flock of bats in the blink of an eye.

A series of loud explosions erupted, and all of the bats plummeted from the sky as fireballs with not a single one surviving that attack.

Thus, the Chi Rong beings continued onward without even being slowed down at all, and quickly disappeared into the darkness.

As long as they kept flying along this canyon, they'd be able to reach the second level of the earth abyss after a day and a night.

On a vast stretch of red land, a massive black shadow flashed through the air, seemingly fleeing from something in a panicked manner.

Not long after the black shadow flew past, spiritual light flashed in the distant sky, and a dozen or so streaks of spiritual of different colors emerged, flying toward the same direction.

All of these beings had different types of wings growing from their backs, but they all had black tattoos on their faces. They were the beings of the Sevenpass Race, the number one branch among the Flyin Spirit Race.

The thin female child flying at the forefront of the group was none other than Ao Qing, whom all of the holy disciples were wary of.

Ao Qing looked on at the fleeing black shadow up ahead with a cold smile on her face and pursued it in an unhurried manner.

After a while, a burly man among the Sevenpass Race holy disciples couldn't help but suggest, "Senior Martial Sister Ao, the direction that this Goldentusk Beast is escaping is diverging away from the entrance to the second level that we're heading toward. Wouldn't it be best to kill it now rather than continue to follow it?"

"Where's the hurry? It's very rare to encounter pack-dwelling mid-grade demon beasts like the Goldentusk Beast on just the first level of the earth abyss, so we naturally have to kill all of them at once. Are you doubting my ability to complete the trial just because we have to slightly delay our descent into the next level?" Ao Qing asked in an emotionless voice.

The burly man was given a fright upon hearing this, and he hurriedly explained, "Of course not! I wouldn't dare to think such a thing. I'm just afraid that the Infernal Flame Fruits will be taken by the holy disciples from the other branches."

"If we really do get there too late, then we can just take other people's fruits. If that doesn't work, we can always go to the fourth level of the earth abyss; there'll definitely be a cast quantity of those fruits down there," Ao Qing chuckled coldly in an implacable manner.

The burly man didn't dare to say anything else upon hearing that.

Thus, they continued to pursue the fleeing black shadow in an unhurried manner like a pride of lions toying with their prey.

Amid a vast expanse of rugged rocks, three Flying Spirit Race beings with blue feathered wings on their backs and scales all over their faces had surrounded a demon beast of darkness, and had launched a ferocious assault against it. This demonic creature had the head of a deer and the body of a human, and it was around 20 feet tall.

Black Qi was swirling around its body, and it held a massive black trident in its hands, managing to hold its own even in the face of several holy disciples. Furthermore, it seemed to only be growing more powerful as the battle wore on, and it was instead the three holy disciples who were slowly being forced onto the backfoot.

This was only the first level of the earth abyss, so they had no idea how a high-grade demon beast like the Deer-Faced Demon had ended up here.

However, seeing as this carnivorous demon beast was trying to prey on them, they had no choice but to fight for their lives.

Elsewhere, most of the Flying Spirit Race holy disciples on the first level had encountered unexpected troubles. However, there were also some holy disciples who had enjoyed remarkably smooth journeys, and were entering the second level as the Chi Rong beings had.

Meanwhile, in order to avoid the antagonistic Flying Spirit Race branches, Han Li had no choice but to head toward the most secluded entrance, and the flying carriage had flown for over half a day with the trio inside it.

Perhaps it was because this carriage's concealment restriction really was working or because there weren't many demon beasts on this route to begin with. In any case, they encountered no further complications during the rest of their journey, and after flying for two days and two nights, they had passed through two forests and a set of mountain ranges, arriving in a place deep within the first level of the earth abyss.

At this rate, it would only take them another day to arrive at the entrance to the second level.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi were quite elated by their progress.

However, after flying for several tens of thousands of kilometers further, a vast expanse of black mountain ranges suddenly appeared up ahead.

The three of them immediately stopped the carriage in alarm.

"According to the map, there should be a set of plains here; why are there mountain ranges instead?" Bai Bi murmured as he looked at the massive mountains up ahead.

Lei Lan was also rather dumbstruck.

Even from a distance, they could tell that all of the mountains in the mountain ranges were extremely tall. Some of them had extended to the very top of the underground world, leaving only small gaps between mountains through which one could pass, and that presented quite a daunting prospect.

No only knew just how long these mountain ranges extended for, nor whether there were any hazards awaiting them inside.

Han Li's eyes narrowed as suddenly exited the flying carriage, then descended onto the nearby ground to carefully inspect something.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi were rather surprised by what Han Li was doing, but after exchanging a quick glance, they also flew out of the carriage and landed beside Han Li.

"From the signs nearby, it appears that this set of mountain ranges has only appeared here in the past century. It was most likely moved here by someone with unfathomable power," Han Li said in a slow voice.

Lei Lan's face paled upon hearing this, and Bai Bi's expression was also rather disgruntled.

"There's no need to panic. Even the Demon Monarchs in the deepest level of the earth abyss aren't capable of such a monumental feat through their own power. This was most likely done through the assistance of some kind of treasure or formation. The only alternative possibility is that a True Spirit level demon beast has appeared in the deepest level of the abyss," Han Li said with a smile.

"I see." As a holy disciple of the Tian Peng Race, Bai Bi was no ordinary being, and he quickly realized that Han Li was right.

"Even so, the situation here isn't quite right. The desert that we passed through earlier also appeared out of nowhere. Why are the demon beasts of the earth abyss doing this? What could their intentions be?" A concerned look appeared on Lei Lan's face.

"Perhaps this is all due to the beast torrent. Even if that isn't the case and there's another reason behind all this, there's no way that the earth abyss trial would be canceled. Hence, all we can do is get to the third level, then bring back the Infernal Flame Fruit as quickly as possible and report these sightings to the higher-ups in our Tian Peng Race," Han Li said in an unflustered manner. After all, he had many similar past experiences, so this was not something new to him.

"You're right, Brother Han. However, this set of mountain ranges really is quite peculiar. If we fly through the gaps between the mountains, who knows what dangers we could encounter? But if we try to go around it..." Bai Bi said in a hesitant voice.

"We definitely can't go around it," Lei Lan rejected before analyzing, "According to the map, on one side of this land is the earth abyss wind belt, while the Black Abyssal Flying Ants' nests lay on the other side. The earth abyss winds in the wind belt are far more powerful than the gusts we've encountered before, and the glacial power imbued within them can freeze us instantly; it's a renowned restricted area. As for the ant's nests, there are hundreds of thousands of flying ants in there. If we try to force our way through it with our cultivation bases, there's at least a 50% chance that we'd all die in there."

"So that means our only choice is to pass through these mountain ranges," Han Li murmured to himself as he stroked his chin.

"Not necessarily. If we go around in an even larger circle, we can skirt around all of these hazards, but that'll take at least an extra seven or eight days. That delay could prove to be extremely detrimental to our search for the Infernal Flame Fruit." Lei Lan was becoming rather hesitant.

Meanwhile, Han Li was staring at the mountain ranges up ahead in silence.

At this moment, both Bai Bi and Lei Lan also fell silent, entrusting the final decision to Han Li.

After a while, Han Li finally made his decision. "These mountain ranges give me a very eerie feeling; if we really do go through it, I feel like we'll encounter some extreme hazards. Even if we can force our way through the mountain ranges, we'll most likely have expended a large amount of magic power, and that certainly won't hold us in good stead for the rest of the trial. As for entering the second level a few days late, I don't think that's too much of an issue. With these few days of delay, the branches that are targeting us won't be able to predict our route and ambush us. Besides, there are so many trial-takers, and there won't be all that many Infernal Flame Fruits to be found on the second level. I intend to take you two to the third level anyway, so it's better to waste some time rather than face the unknown dangers within those mountain ranges."

He then flew back into the flying carriage. Lei Lan and Bai Bi held a brief discussion through voice transmission upon seeing this before also returning to the carriage.

"Brother Han, I think we should discuss this matter in further depth. Perhaps the mountain ranges aren't as dangerous as we imagine," Bai Bi said as soon as he entered the carriage.

Even though he felt like Han Li's decision made sense, he still couldn't help but feel that wasting so much time was not wise.

"Speak no further; I won't enter these mountain ranges," Han said in an indifferent voice, cutting off what Bai Bi was about to say next.

The carriage then shot forth toward another direction at his behest.

Seeing as Han Li was so determined, Bai Bi heaved a resigned sigh and fell silent. Lei Lan didn't contribute anything further to the conversation, either,

Unbeknownst to two of them, Han Li was not feeling anywhere near as resolute and assured as he appeared.

At this moment, a wisp of his spiritual sense was connected to the Weeping Soul Beast inside his spirit beast bracelet, trying to soothe the beast's violent and uneasy emotions. At the same time, he was wondering what could the cause of its emotional outburst.

Just as he was approaching those mountain ranges earlier, the Weeping Soul Bead within his body suddenly began to heat up. His heart jolted with shock in response, and he hurriedly established a connection with the Weeping Soul Beast in his spirit beast bracelet. As a result, he discovered that the beast was in an extremely abnormal ruffled state, growling incessantly while rushing around in an erratic manner.

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The Weeping Soul Beast had already attained intelligence, and after communicating with it, Han Li learned that there was a burst of fearsome Yin soul energy lurking deep within those mountain ranges. It seemed that there was a ghostly being in there that was so powerful, even the Weeping Soul Beast felt threatened by its existence.

The Weeping Soul Beast was the natural bane of ghostly souls, so a ghostly being with Yin soul energy powerful enough to threaten it naturally had to be an extremely fearsome being.

That wasn't to say that the Weeping Soul Beast stood no chance against it, but Han Li simply wasn't willing to take the risk.

Thus, he immediately decided against entering the mountain ranges, choosing instead to take a further route, even if it meant spending more time on their journey.

This concerned the secret that was his Weeping Soul Beast, so Han Li naturally didn't explain everything in detail to Lei Lan and Bai Bi; he merely used some rather unconvincing excuses to placate them.

As such, the two Tian Peng Race holy disciples were a little displeased. Han Li merely chuckled coldly in his heart and paid no heed to the two holy disciples. It wasn't as if he planned to stay at the Tian Peng Race for a long time anyway, so he didn't have to care what these two thought about him. Everything would be fine as long as they didn't weigh him down in this trial.

With that in mind, Han Li provided no further explanations to Bai Bi and Lei Lan, and the two holy disciples weren't interested in speaking any further about the issue, either.

Thus, the interior of the carriage became very quiet.

Among the three of them, Han Li stood at the front of the carriage and looked out into the distance, Bai Bi had his head lowered in deep thought, and Lei Lan had her eyes closed as she entered a seated meditative state.

Han Li spurred on the carriage to full speed, and it departed from the mountain ranges in moments, flying into the barren landscape again.

After a while, Han Li's expression suddenly changed slightly as he withdrew his gaze, then turned his attention to the direction behind the carriage with narrowed eyes.

Han Li's actions naturally attracted the attention of Lei Lan and Bai Bi.

The two raised their heads in unison, and Lei Lan opened her eyes to assess the situation.

They cast their gaze toward the direction that Han Li was looking in, only to discover a vast expanse murky greyness everywhere they looked. Due to the restrictions on everyone's spiritual sense present within the earth abyss, neither of them were able to release their spiritual sense to survey the situation, so they could only turn to Han Li with curiosity in their eyes.

Han Li stood expressionlessly at the front of the carriage without saying anything, but there was blue light faintly shimmering within his eyes.

"Brother Han..." Bai Bi was finally unable to repress his curiosity any longer, but in the instant that he opened his mouth to raise a question, Han Li suddenly swept two fingers gently through the air.

A streak of golden light shot forth like lightning, and the scenes that unfolded next gave Bai Bi and Lei Lan a massive fright.

As the golden light flashed through the air, green Qi suddenly flashed, and a cloud of green mist appeared out of thin air, only to be sliced in half by the golden light.

A roar of shock and fury rang out from within the mist as the two halves of the green mist combined as one again.

The green mist then surged and transformed into a strange demonic ape with yellow fur all over its body.

It was none other than the Resentful Ape Beast that had just slain a Flying Spirit Race holy disciple earlier.

It had finally caught up to the flying carriage not long ago, and in its elation, it had attempted to sneak over to the carriage, then enshroud it with poisonous mist to kill Han Li's trio.

However, never would it have thought that not only was Han Li's spiritual sense far superior to that of normal Deity Transformation cultivators, his Brightsight Spirit Eyes were also capable of easily seeing through illusions and concealment techniques, thereby allowing him to immediately glean the demonic ape's presence.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi's hearts jolted with shock at the sight of the demonic ape, and they immediately sprang to their feet before flying out to either side of the carriage.

Even though they were unable to release their spiritual sense, it was still a testament to this demonic ape's concealment and illusionary abilities that it was able to get so close to them without their detection. However, that begged the question of how Han Li had managed to discover them, given that he was also a Spirit General.

The two of them fixed their eyes on the demonic ape with wary expressions on their faces and befuddlement in their hearts.

At this moment, the flying carriage slowly came to a halt at Han Li's behest, and he appraised the demonic ape in an expressionless manner.

"Are you three the ones who ruined my mistress' sacrificial ceremony?" the Resentful Ape Beast asked in a cold voice.

Bai Bi's heart stirred upon hearing this, but he put on a smile as he asked, "Sacrificial ceremony? What sacrificial ceremony? When did we ever do such a thing?"

"Did you destroy a Giant Spirit Flower back in the desert? That flower was being used as part of my mistress' sacrificial ceremony!" the demonic ape continued in a menacing voice.

"No," Han Li immediately replied without even batting a single eyelid.

The calm and concise tone in his voice made even the demonic ape falter, and for a split second, it wondered whether it had pursued the wrong targets. However, it then turned its attention to Lei Lan and Bai Bi, and their facial expressions clearly betrayed Han Li's denial. As such, the demonic ape flew into a thunderous rage.

"You have the essence of the Giant Spirit Flower all over your bodies, yet you still dare to try and fool me? I'm going to eat all of you so I can report back to my mistress!" the demonic ape roared as it transformed into a cloud of green mist that stretched for over 100 feet, hurtling directly toward the trio.

"Insolent beast!" Bai Bi's smile faded as he flapped his wings toward the mist in one powerful motion.

Countless strands of golden threads shot forth, instantly puncturing the mist and filling it with holes.

However, green light swirled around the mist, and it made a full recovery in the blink of an eye.

On the other end, Lei Lan could sense that this opponent was quite troublesome to deal with, and she immediately made a hand seal. Two thick bolts of silver lightning shot forth from within her sleeves, striking the green mist before exploding with a resounding boom.

After the two bolts of lightning disappeared, the green mist faltered in mid-air, and two gaping holes that were each around 10 feet in size had appeared.

However, before Lei Lan had a chance to celebrate, the deriding cackling of the demonic ape rang out from within the mist.

The green mist managed to quickly regenerate once again before swelling in size and closing in with ferocious might.

Bai Bi and Lei Lan's expressions both changed in unison. They had sensed that this demonic ape was a being to be wary of, but they didn't think that a mere Resentful Ape Beast would pose such a stern challenge. The two of them immediately sprung into action again. One of them flipped a hand over to produce a green wooden comb, while the other made a hand seal, and arcs of lightning began to crackle in the air in preparation for another attack.

However, Han Li merely harrumphed coldly at this moment, and finally joined the fray.

Azure light shimmered behind him as a massive azure bird projection appeared, then opened its huge beak.

An azure pillar of light shot forth from within its beak amid a dull thump, puncturing the center of the green mist in a flash.

The pillar of light then split up into countless azure threads before exploding in all directions.

Gale force winds were swept up as a violent hurricane wreaked havoc through the mist. All of the green mist was swept up by the gusts of wind before vanishing on the spot.

It was as if the green mist had been blown into oblivion by the wind.

Lei Lan and Bai Bi both faltered upon seeing this.

Could it be that this demon beast they'd found so troublesome to deal with had been destroyed by Han Li with a single attack?

However, Han Li showed no signs of stopping. A peculiar look appeared on his face as he abruptly summoned eight streaks of golden sword Qi, which struck eight different spots in the air behind him.

Eight unsettling cries erupted in unison, following which eight clouds of green mist emerged out of thin air, having just barely evaded the streaks of sword Qi.

Eight indistinct green projections of light that were even shorter than the demonic ape from before appeared in mid-air, and one of them exclaimed, "You really are capable of detecting our presence!"

Han Li's body blurred and in the next instant, he had turned around to face the green projections as he asked, "It shouldn't be any surprise that I'm able to see through such crude concealment techniques. What kind of demon beast are you? You're not Resentful Ape Beasts, right? There's no way that resentful ape beasts could possess these abilities."

Only then did Lei Lan and Bai Bi realize that there were enemies behind them, and they hurriedly turned around with shock and bewilderment in their hearts.

It was quite plain to see that these two possessed powerful cultivation bases and abilities, but they were sorely lacking in practical combat experience. It was no wonder that the Tian Peng Race elders weren't optimistic about their chances of completing the trial on their own.

"Hehe, don't even think about trying to goad me into telling you my origins! I may not be able to do anything to you on the surface, but here in this earth abyss, even if your cultivation base far outstrips mine, you're definitely no match for me!" Another one of the green projections had spoken on this occasion, and eight projections threw their heads back and burst into raucous laughter in unison. Immediately thereafter, green light flashed and eight completely identical demonic apes were manifested.

Green light flashed from these apes' hands, and all of them summoned green machetes as they rushed toward Han Li's trio.

Han Li raised an eyebrow as he abruptly raised a hand. The hand turned into a pristine white color, and he spread open his fingers to blast forth a swath of five-colored flames. The flames sped forth at a phenomenal pace, sweeping up the eight demonic apes in the blink of an eye.

Brilliant five-colored spiritual light then erupted from the flames, and the eight demonic apes were slowed down to less than a tenth of their original speed.

Han Li took this opportunity to expel a ball of shimmering silver flames out of his mouth.

The silver flames exploded at his behest, splitting up into eight silver flaming arrows that shot forth in a flash.

The eight silver arrows then punctured the bodies of the restricted demonic apes in an instant. These demonic apes were indeed quite powerful in the earth abyss, but never would they have thought that he would possess such a strange ability capable of slowing them down so significantly.

Thus, they were completely caught off guard, and even though all of the demonic apes could see the oncoming flaming arrows, they were simply far too slow to evade. They only had time to let loose a collective roar of shock and fury before fist-sized holes were punched into their chest, following which silver flames erupted to engulf their bodies.

All of the demonic apes were reduced to plumes of smoke by these silver flames in the blink of an eye.

They hadn't even managed the vast majority of their abilities before they killed, and not even a single wisp of their souls had managed to escape.

The silver flames converged to form a Fire Raven that reentered Han Li's body, and by that point, Lei Lan and Bai Bi were already completely flabbergasted.

Even though they had only had a brief clash with the demonic apes, they could tell that these demon beast were fearsome creatures, and that a prolonged and arduous battle would be required to kill them.

However, Han Li had slain these demonic apes in mere moments, and the stark contrast between expectations and reality had them in complete shock.

Only then did they truly understand the gulf between Han Li and themselves, and their expressions were rather strained as they looked at him.

"Let's go. That ape mentioned a mistress earlier, and she most likely won't be as easy to deal with," Han Li said in an indifferent voice before stepping onto the flying carriage again.

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