Immortal Sea

Immortal Sea . . . 

The members of the Nine-Emperors Immortal Palace responded with cold snorts, their silence a testament to their pride and arrogance. Among the thousands gathered here, every individual was a peak demon-level genius in the realm of immortal foundation. None of them were ordinary; their self-assuredness was simply a reflection of their exceptional talents.

However, while some expressed their arrogance openly through their demeanor, a significant number remained silent. Among this group were several renowned figures who watched events unfold with composed detachment.

Finally, as the thousands of experts completed the 'examination test,' the illusory figure on the platform cast his gaze upon them and declared, "Consider yourselves temporarily successful. You may enter the sacred academy."

As his voice faded, he waved his scepter, and unique runes enveloped those who had passed. This sight surprised many. Though these individuals were indeed exceptional, the spectators hadn't expected everyone to pass. It seemed the illusory figure had his own plans, allowing the more confident supreme geniuses to step forward first for easier selection.

With another wave of his hand, a separate space materialized before him. He instructed, "Those wishing to enter the sacred academy should step forward and stand at the edge of this space. Release your astral souls, immortal foundations, and bloodline power. Those not selected by me, please step back and make room."

Immediately, several figures stepped forward, approaching the designated space. For a while, the entire area vibrated with the release of astral souls, immortal foundations, and bloodline power, creating a dazzling spectacle.

Qin Wentian exchanged glances with those beside him as they observed this scene. The earlier process had been rather lenient, perhaps allowing some individuals with less potential to pass due to the sheer number of participants. However, the illusory figure had given these outstanding geniuses an opportunity to step forward earlier, ensuring that no true elites were overlooked. Typically, elites exuded supreme confidence.

"Let's move forward first. They will figure it out," Qin Wentian suggested. Qing'er, Nanfeng Yunxi, and the others stood together. Shortly after, the Thousand Transformations Immortal Sect, Evergreen Immortal Empire, and Southern Phoenix Clan proceeded together towards the entrance of the Heavenly Dao Sacred Academy. Their fate now rested in their own hands.

The experts advanced towards the sacred academy, all of them shrouded in the mesmerizing light from the scepter. As they set foot inside the academy's entrance, Qin Wentian felt a momentary sense of strangeness, as if he had crossed into a gateway to the void.

They continued to walk forward, and the scene before them transformed. Qin Wentian couldn't help but be awed as he gazed upon the new surroundings.

"It's said that the Heavenly Dao Sacred Academy exists in a separate dimension, a world shaped by surreal laws. It seems those rumors were true," Jun Mengchen remarked. A gentle breeze ruffled their clothes as they pressed on, marveling at the surreal landscape before them.

In that moment, the thousands of experts found themselves standing on the shores of an enigmatic sea. Before their very eyes stretched an expanse of boundless ocean, its aura radiating an otherworldly quality.

This sea, with its limitless expanse, appeared to have no discernible boundaries. Even with their immortal senses, these accomplished individuals couldn't perceive the far end of this seemingly endless body of water.

The symphony of crashing waves filled the air. The sea before them glistened with astral light, and the same illusory figure from earlier stood suspended in the sky, gazing down at the assembled crowd.

"This sea is known as the Immortal Sea, or by its other name, the Dao Sea. You've all come to the Heavenly Dao Sacred Academy in search of the dao, but first, to do so, you must traverse the Immortal Sea. Should you fail, you'll remain stranded upon these waters for eternity," the figure spoke slowly. "This sea knows no bounds, and to cross it... there are countless ways to achieve that. Everyone, please wait a little while longer for everyone to gather before attempting the crossing together."

Nods of agreement rippled through the crowd as they directed their attention ahead. The words of the illusory figure were veiled in mystery, leaving them puzzled. With the Immortal Sea's limitless expanse, how were they expected to cross it?

Behind them, more experts continued to arrive. Evidently, these were the immortal foundation experts who had successfully passed the test after them. The sheer number of individuals present was staggering, exceeding 20,000.

"Are there more people still coming?" Confusion rippled through the assembly. The illusory figure had clearly stated that the quota was only 20,000. Yet here, more than 20,000 individuals were permitted entry.

To truly enter the Heavenly Dao Sacred Academy, they needed to navigate this sea. They couldn't consider themselves within the academy's confines just yet. This sea was another test to determine their potential.

As the flow of newcomers dwindled, a growing impatience settled upon the masses. Time flowed at its own pace, and the number of arrivals continued to increase, albeit at a slower rate.

Once more, the illusory figure in the ethereal realm echoed his words, adding, "The Immortal Sea knows no bounds, offering countless ways to traverse it. Each of you shall have your own boat, and it's essential that you don't attempt to navigate together, as your individual routes will vary. Those who successfully pass this test will find themselves in different locations within the Sacred Academy."

"For the first 20,000 to pass, they shall be deemed full-fledged members of the Sacred Academy. Those who do not make it within the first hundred years will be expelled from this place. If, after a century, we still do not reach 20,000, the rest still on these waters will meet the same fate," the illusory figure continued. With these words, he conjured a boat crafted from leaves and gracefully descended upon it. The vessel glided atop the water's surface, and soon, he disappeared from their view.

"Crossing the sea to seek the Dao," murmured those gathered, their eyes fixed on the Immortal Sea. This vast body of water also bore the name Dao Sea. How, they wondered, would they ever reach the far shore?

The experts here began to manifest small boats from their immortal energies, readying themselves for the journey.

Beside Qin Wentian, Qing'er turned her gaze toward him.

"To seek the Dao while crossing the sea," Qin Wentian pondered aloud, "the illusory figure's words suggest that the method for crossing may differ for each person. And if we pass, we may find ourselves scattered across different parts of the Sacred Academy. Qing'er, there's a chance we'll be separated during our journey. If that happens, I'll see you again within the Academy."

"Mhm," Qing'er replied, her priorities aligned with their pursuit of strength. Before this, the Skymist Immortal Empire had exerted force upon her Evergreen Immortal Empire, but with the appearance of the fabled Heavenly Dao Sacred Academy, seizing this opportunity was their priority.

"However, who's to say... we won't find each other along the way," Qin Wentian added with a smile, summoning a small leaf boat with his immortal energy. As he stepped onto it, he addressed his comrades, saying, "Let's set sail."

One by one, they fashioned boats from their immortal energy and embarked on their respective vessels. Together, they sailed forth upon the vast Immortal Sea.

In an instant, countless boats dotted the waters, forming a magnificent fleet. They ventured into the limitless sea, their journey beginning in earnest.

Many days passed, and they remained within the sea's expanse. To their amazement, they discovered that the Immortal Sea adhered to a unique law of the Great Dao. Profound energy emanated from this enigmatic law, shrouding everyone and leaving them in awe of the sea's profound mysteries.

Several months slid by, and the experts had journeyed an incredible distance. As they advanced further, they gradually diverged, each sailing in different directions as they sought their own path to cross the Immortal Sea and reach the distant shore.

"What an expansive sea, and there appears to be no end in sight. How are we meant to cross it?" Nanfeng Yunxi wondered aloud. Beside her, Qin Wentian and their companions shared her confusion. They had sailed far together, yet the opposing shore remained invisible.

It seemed the illusory figure's words held true: the Immortal Sea was indeed boundless.

"Our speed is already at its limit, yet we've seen no sign of the far shore. Perhaps the method we're using is incorrect. This sea holds mysteries beyond our comprehension, and it might be wise to consider the illusory figure's words," Jun Mengchen suggested, realizing that something wasn't right. His sentiment was shared by all. Nevertheless, they first attempted the straightforward approach of sailing in a straight line, hoping it might prove fruitful. Unfortunately, it seemed this approach was futile.

"It appears there truly is no end to this sea. To exit, we might need to gain profound insights into our own Dao," Nanfeng Shengge commented from her position beside Nanfeng Yunxi. She possessed a humble and kind nature, marked by her intelligence, making her the most trusted dao protector by Nanfeng Yunxi, who considered her a true sister.

"Mengchen, you should work on your patience. This Immortal Sea seems to suit your temperament well. Be vigilant against arrogance and impatience, or you may not make the top 20,000 and, as a result, won't even qualify for admission to the academy," Qin Wentian reminded him.

"Mhm, those who find their way here are truly exceptional individuals. While their talents may not quite match up to yours, they're far from mediocre. They represent the cream of the crop in the immortal realms. It might be worth your while to take note of them," Nanfeng Shengge spoke in a gentle tone.

Qin Wentian noticed that Qing'er was lost in contemplation. He couldn't help but ask, "Qing'er, what's on your mind?"

"I've been thinking, ever since this test began, we've been traveling together as a group. There hasn't been much time for us to quiet our hearts and reflect on the Dao," Qing'er's voice resonated melodiously, causing Qin Wentian to pause. After a moment, he nodded and smiled, saying, "You're right, Qing'er. Perhaps it's time for us to part ways."

"But what if we're all mistaken? What if the true path to the other shore is simply sailing straight ahead, and we'll eventually reach it? Maybe this is a test of our patience," Jun Mengchen suggested.

"Follow your heart and instincts. If you don't succeed, you can always try a different approach later," Qin Wentian advised Jun Mengchen. His words prompted everyone to ponder in silence; there was indeed some logic in what he said.

"Let's reunite in the Sacred Academy then," Qin Wentian smiled. His boat began to drift toward the horizon, and he gazed at Qing'er, who nodded in response before embarking on her own journey.

"As expected of lovers," Jun Mengchen mused.

"Baobao is off as well," even Little Rascal had a boat of his own. He skillfully guided the small vessel in a certain direction, his snow-white form perched at the bow. Strangely, even in this moment, he appeared utterly adorable, standing there leisurely as the wind directed his course.

Next, Nanfeng Yunxi and Nanfeng Shengge both set sail.

"Senior Sis Qingxuan, Hua Taixu, what about you guys..." Before Jun Mengchen could finish his question, both Zi Qingxuan and Hua Taixu had already embarked on their respective boats. Hua Taixu's white robes billowed in the breeze, and Zi Qingxuan didn't look back, leaving Jun Mengchen alone on the shore. He slumped down, stretched out on the boat, and gazed up at the vast blue sky, letting out a long sigh. It seemed like this voyage was going to be incredibly dull. Where on earth was the accursed Heavenly Dao Sacred Academy?