94-103

Chapter 94. The Surprise Attack of Heaven-Earth Transformation

With the Sect Leader's loud shout, all Foundation Establishment cultivators who held the teleportation token, along with their Qi Refining disciples, turned into a purple light and rushed into the teleportation array.

Seeing all the disciples had entered the teleportation array, Master Purple Sun frowned at the fluctuating array and wondered, "Why are there sixty-two people entering? Have two demonic cultivators sneaked in? Darn it, the quota is fixed. With these two extra people, I have to apologize to the elder of the Green Thunder Sect. Cursed demonic cultivators, don't let me catch you if you dare to come out!"

...

Following Cheng Yuhuan into the teleportation array, Shu Han only felt the world spinning around him, and his vision filled with bizarre lights, until he finally landed in a place rich with spiritual energy.

Looking up at the sky, it was filled with rainbow-colored clouds, like a canopy wrapping this world.

Shu Han stood near a cliff. When he looked down, he found that the space below was also filled with rainbow-colored clouds.

It seemed as if this land was floating in the air!

Behind him was the most majestic mountain peak Shu Han had ever seen in his life.

This mountain peak occupied half of Shu Han's horizon. He had to tilt his head back to see the peak from a distance.

The top of the mountain was a world of white, with white light gushing out from the peak, gradually spreading in the sky, forming a rainbow-colored cloud.

What a mystical Immaculate Realm!

At this time, the other four Qi Refining disciples were also teleported in, one by one. As soon as they entered, they were amazed by the wonders of the Immaculate Realm.

After sweeping his eyes around, Shu Han lost interest in the beautiful scenery and started to nervously scan his surroundings with his spiritual sense. Because of the threat of the demonic cultivator, he dared not let his guard down!

Finally, Cheng Yuhuan was the last to be teleported in. Looking at this Immaculate Realm, he showed a strange smile.

The other four disciples immediately stood respectfully in front of him, waiting for his command. Shu Han, however, watched with cold eyes, involuntarily taking two steps back.

This action was immediately noticed by Cheng Yuhuan. With a full-faced smile, he said, "Disciple, what are you doing? Come to your master quickly. It's not time for you to act freely yet."

Shu Han snorted coldly, "Let's not play this game anymore, senior. Are we still pretending now that we're in the Immaculate Realm?"

This sentence made the other four Qi Refining cultivators puzzled. A female cultivator asked in confusion, "Brother Xu, what nonsense are you talking about? Isn't Uncle Master Cheng your master? How can you be so rude..."

Puff!

A bloody hand suddenly pierced through the female cultivator's chest, directly grabbing her beating heart. With a lifeless face, she turned her head to see Cheng Yuhuan's sinister smile.

"Uncle Master... you..."

Bang!

The heart was suddenly crushed, and silver-white secret patterns emerged on Cheng Yuhuan's hand. The female cultivator's vitality was quickly absorbed by the patterns on his hand. In a moment, the lively female cultivator was left only as a pile of clothes.

This scene scared the other cultivators quite a bit, and they quickly fled from Cheng Yuhuan.

"Uncle Master, what are you doing..."

Only Shu Han remained relatively calm at the scene. However, seeing those silver-white secret patterns again gave him a bad feeling.

Cheng Yuhuan laughed loudly, transforming and revealing his true form.

"Demonic cultivator!"

"Run!"

The other three disciples fled in all directions in panic.

Gui Wu, with a sinister laugh, looked at Shu Han with curiosity, and asked, "My good disciple, seeing your master's true face, why aren't you running?"

Shu Han laughed loudly, "Senior is in the late stage of Foundation Establishment, what's the use of running? Thanks to Gui Li's care, I've known about senior's identity for a long time. Actually, we are on the same side."

"Hmm?"

Shu Han's words confused Gui Wu.

"Gui Li! You know Gui Li?"

Shu Han laughed and said, "Not just know, I have become a lifelong friend with senior Gui Li and promised to assist the actions of the Devil Music Sect. It's all just words, and you may not believe it, senior. I will now invite Gui Li to explain to the senior face-to-face!"

As he finished speaking, a light emerged from the jade pendant around Shu Han's neck, and Gui Li appeared, holding his Soul Snatcher suona.

This scene left Gui Wu completely stunned. His spiritual sense swept over Gui Li and found that his cultivation techniques and level were not fake. He felt like it really was Gui Li.

He couldn't help but ask in surprise, "Gui Li? Didn't you die? How are you still alive?"

"Haha! It's a long story. Let me explain it slowly!" Gui Li then turned to Shu Han and said, "Zimo, I'm going to talk with this senior. You can stand aside for now."

Shu Han bowed and retreated as told.

Seeing Gui Li, Gui Wu was still puzzled, but his alertness and hostility obviously diminished.

Seeing Shu Han move away, he leaned in and whispered, "What's going on? The master has already felt the fragmentation of the Blood Soul Tracking Array patterns on you. How could you still be alive? If you're alive, why am I here in the Immaculate Realm?"

Blood Soul Tracking Array?

Gui Li smiled, "Do you want to know?"

"Cut the crap and just tell me! What's going on?"

Gui Li pondered for a moment and said, "I can only tell you one thing, and that is - Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking!"

"What?"

Whoosh!

A golden thunderbolt suddenly descended from afar. Gui Wu shivered all over, and before he could activate his magic treasure, he was hit directly by the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword.

In an instant, his hastily assembled protective barrier was shattered by the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, and he was sent flying.

A mouthful of blood spewed from Gui Wu's mouth. His divine sense immediately noticed that in the direction Shu Han was moving, a peak Foundation Establishment stage aura had arisen.

Then a stranger came flying on eight golden wings, followed by Shu Han.

Gui Wu looked at Gui Li who was laughing heartily and yelled angrily, "You're not Gui Li! Who are you?"

Gui Li's disguise gradually dissipated, revealing an angelic beauty.

Shangguan Ruolin covered her mouth and giggled, "This Heaven-Earth Transformation is really wonderful. Not only can it perfectly disguise cultivation techniques and demeanor, but it can also disguise the cultivation level."

Gui Wu was stunned. He had just arrived in the Immaculate Realm and had been injured. He looked at the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword that countered his technique and felt a bad feeling in his heart. He growled in a low voice, "Did Gui Li die by your hand? You're not from the Purple Sun Sect! Who are you?"

Shu Han stood in the air with his sword, looking at Gui Wu, "Who am I? The one who's going to kill you! Linlin, let me take over from here, you go hide for now. This old ghost has already been injured, I should be able to handle him without your Golden Core's assistance!"

Shangguan Ruolin nodded, tossed the soul-seizing flute to Shu Han, and yelled, "Try to capture him alive! Force him to tell us what the Blood Soul Tracking Array is!"

"Okay!"

Hearing the conversation between the man and woman, Gui Wu couldn't help but rage.

"A mere early Foundation Establishment stage, and you want to fight against me! Even if I'm injured, killing you is as easy as slaughtering dogs!"

Boom!

Gui Wu suppressed his injuries and released his own power, characteristic of the late Foundation Establishment stage.

Seeing this, Shu Han immediately divided into three.

"Thinking of relying on avatars! Naive!"

Gui Wu didn't hesitate and directly unleashed his life magic treasure, a dark black vertical flute.

The Soul-Claiming Demonic Sound resounded again in the form of flute music.

Just like before, Gui Wu immediately dispersed clouds of ghost fog. Thousands of fierce ghosts within the fog charged at Shu Han accompanied by the Soul-Claiming Demonic Sound.

Shu Han, who had already fought against this demon technique more than once, immediately recited the Golden Light Divine Incantation, and with the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword in hand, he resisted the attacks. However, due to the large gap in cultivation, he was in a dangerous situation.

"Golden Light Divine Incantation?!"

Although Gui Wu was suppressing Shu Han, he felt a vague unease. He suddenly realized that the avatar Shu Han had transformed into earlier did not help him fight, but instead had disappeared without a trace. A series of strange feelings made him want to retreat.

'This kid seems unfathomable, and I've been ambushed and injured. It's not good to be entangled with him, the master's mission is the priority! It's better to pretend to attack and look for a chance to retreat! After all, once the large array is set up, this kid won't be able to escape!'

Chapter 95. Silent Heartbreak Formation

Gui Wu blew his demonic flute, stirring up a whirlwind of ghosts that were killing Shu Han. Shu Han did not counter-attack, instead choosing to wrap himself in the eight-winged sword and retreat, using the golden light from the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword to constantly resolve the incoming ghost fog. He did not dare to clash head-on with Gui Wu.

However, to his surprise, it seemed that Gui Wu also chose not to attack with all his strength. The pressure he was under was far less terrifying than Gui Li's previous onslaught.

'What is this old ghost planning?'

At this moment, Shu Han felt his two avatars about to take position. He urged the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, and the eight-winged sword suddenly expanded, temporarily forcing the surrounding persistent evil ghosts to retreat.

After getting a brief respite, Shu Han immediately urged the Soul Snatcher suona and began to play.

The lingering sound of Gui Wu's flute was soft and pleasant; however, the sound of Shu Han's suona was piercing and discordant.

It was like sawing a stone with a steel saw, making people's hair stand on end!

Hearing this deadly suona sound, Gui Wu was uncomfortable. All the disciples of the Devil Music Sect were proficient in music theory. The Soul-Claiming Demonic Sound was terrifying, but the melody was melodious, and they all regarded playing out of tune as a shame.

He couldn't bear it, and cursed angrily, "You fucking music idiot can't even play properly, yet dares to show off!"

But then he had a thought and felt that something was wrong: "His Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword can clearly counter my technique, so why would he suddenly clumsily use Gui Li's suona?"

At this time, Shangguan Ruolin, who was watching the battle from below, also couldn't help but plug her ears, thinking, "Luckily he always practices the suona in the deep mountains and old forests, otherwise if the villagers heard it, they would have driven him and me out of the village. The tune is so horrible, this is the real Soul-Claiming Demonic Sound."

Shu Han's face turned red, and he thought, 'Isn't a magic treasure supposed to be used against enemies? Why should I care about how it sounds!'

So he puffed up his cheeks, output more spiritual power, and the sound of the suona became louder! The piercing suona sound directly overshadowed Gui Wu's flute sound.

"Enough!" Gui Wu became angry, put down his flute, and scolded, "You little bastard, you're tarnishing the art of my Devil Music Sect! Blow again, and I'll rip your mouth off!"

However, Gui Wu suddenly heard a discordant piano sound coming from his left rear. Then, drum beats came from the right rear.

He had a bad feeling in his heart.

"Formation!"

Gui Wu didn't hesitate at all and immediately prepared to transform into a smoke shield to escape.

Shangguan Ruolin cried out in alarm. She didn't expect that this Foundation Establishment late-stage old ghost would be so cautious. Facing a mere Foundation Establishment early-stage cultivator, he felt something was amiss and turned to flee.

"Get back here!"

She let out a soft snort, and the Six Harmonies Silk Bracelet on her wrist shone brightly. A series of thin strands rushed out of the bracelet, quickly entangling Gui Wu who was preparing to shield himself.

Gui Wu looked at Shangguan Ruolin making her move and scornfully laughed in his heart: A mere Qi Refining stage trying to stop me, a Foundation Establishment late-stage? Foolish... damn! This is a Golden Core magic treasure!

His heart went cold. He was now certain that Gui Li had indeed fallen at their hands.

The golden light sword that restrained the demon technique and the Golden Light Divine Incantation of the Great Fortune Sect. Plus, the woman's Golden Core magic treasure!

No wonder Gui Li had fallen into the hands of this pair!

Gui Wu was in a great hurry, using all his strength to break free from Shangguan Ruolin's Six Harmonies Silk Bracelet and flew desperately toward the distance.

But it was already too late to move now. A specially made yellow wall dropped from the sky, blocking Gui Wu's path.

Gui Wu didn't dare to be careless and took out a ghostly spear from his storage bag, turning it into a large skull head and crashing it towards the wall.

But the sound waves composed of the Soul Snatcher Suona, Frost Edge Harp, and the Rolling Thunder Drum were one step ahead and hit the yellow wall.

Gui Wu was stunned. What does this mean?

The next moment, the sound wave actually bounced back from the yellow wall, and the yellow wall also vibrated, enhancing the power of the sound wave, like a heavy punch, hitting Gui Wu's chest.

Puff!

Gui Wu spat out another mouthful of old blood, and the ghost energy around his body vibrated with the sound wave and gradually disintegrated.

Bang! Bang! Bang...

Before he could react, seven similar yellow walls came from all directions, trapping Gui Wu in this space.

"What...what kind of formation is this?"

Shu Han, holding the suona in the array, laughed heartily, "Old ghost, your Devil Music Sect prides itself on its mastery of music. Today, can you recognize my Silent Heartbreak Formation!"

Immediately, Shu Han once again used the three musical magic treasures to play simultaneously in the array.

The three sound waves bounced back and forth in the eight echo walls, and the sound waves that originally posed no threat to the late-stage Foundation Establishment stage were enhanced back and forth in the eight echo walls. Finally, they merged into a massive sound wave that even Gui Wu, a cultivator who deeply understood musical magic treasures, felt alarmed. He immediately used all his spiritual power to play his life magic treasure.

The flute sound rippled like water, but it didn't receive the amplification from the bronze echo wall.

The sound wave of the Silent Heartbreak Formation clashed with Gui Wu's flute sound, and for a time, they were at a stalemate.

Shu Han couldn't help but sigh inwardly: This is truly a late-stage Foundation Establishment powerhouse that can confront the Silent Heartbreak Formation. If they fought one-on-one, he would definitely not be his match.

Seeing the situation at a stalemate, Shu Han immediately recited the Golden Light spell.

The sound of the spell also got amplified in the echo walls. Like the last straw that broke the camel's back, it combined with the sound waves to break through Gui Wu's flute sound, enveloping him in the sound wave, and causing him great pain.

"Ah ah ah! This sounds awful!"

Gui Wu, who had already been deafened, gritted his teeth, directly summoned a demon from the ground, and actually chewed it up in his mouth! In an instant, his spiritual power surged, and he directly played the magic flute, breaking the vibrating sound waves around him.

Shu Han was taken aback, he did not expect Gui Wu to have a way to increase his spiritual power again.

Shangguan Ruolin floated over and said, "Shu Han, that demon just now was the incarnation of his internal demonic cultivation. He self-destructed a layer of his cultivation to get a short-term surge in spiritual power, you have to be careful!"

Without Shangguan Ruolin's explanation, Shu Han was already on high alert. He immediately played the suona, strummed the zither strings, struck the waist drum hard, drove the power of the Silent Heartbreak Formation to its maximum, and took the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword to protect himself.

However, Gui Wu, whose strength had greatly increased, did not attack, but instead shot up towards the sky, trying to escape from the range of the Silent Heartbreak Formation.

"Trying to run?!"

Shu Han crushed a medium-grade spirit stone, and the mighty spiritual power poured into the Silent Heartbreak Formation. The eight echo walls adjusted their direction, immediately reflecting the sound waves of the three musical instruments to the top, forming an invisible wall of sound.

Gui Wu hit this wall of sound, his body vibrated violently by the intense sound waves, and he was unable to advance even a bit.

"Damn! This kid's array is so weird!"

Seeing this opportunity, Shu Han immediately fully sacrificed the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword. A golden lightning as thick as an arm flew out, aiming directly at Gui Wu's head.

Shu Han knew that it was impossible to capture this person alive, so he decided to kill him to end it all!

Seeing the golden lightning strike, Gui Wu was scared in his heart.

He couldn't die here!

So, he directly pulled out two demons from his body and crushed them in his hands in an instant.

Boom!

The tremendous ghost fog exploded around Gui Wu, and in an instant, the sound barrier and the evil-breaking lightning were blasted away by the exploding ghost fog, and the eight echo walls were also blown away.

The pressure around Gui Wu was released, and he immediately turned into a wisp of black smoke and fled.

Shu Han stood in front of Shangguan Ruolin to withstand the explosion of the ghost fog. He retrieved the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, and the righteous golden light cleansed the surrounding fog, seeing that Gui Wu had already fled.

"That powerful?"

Shangguan Ruolin anxiously said, "Shu Han, the more frantic he is to escape, it means the more critical he is! We can't let him go! Chase!"

Upon hearing this, Shu Han immediately picked up Shangguan Ruolin and turned into a stream of light, chasing after Gui Wu.

Chapter 96. Birds of a Feather

Gui Wu clutched his chest and quickly fled in the sky of the Immaculate Realm. At this moment, his heart was like being cut with a knife. The three demons he had extracted just now were the results of his three hundred years of cultivation.

Now, because of the self-destruction of his cultivation, his strength had briefly surged to its peak, but he was soon to fall from the peak, losing a hundred years of cultivation, and possibly being downgraded to the mid-stage of the Foundation Establishment.

He couldn't help but curse in his heart.

That pair of man and woman were really weird!

They obviously didn't have high cultivation, but they forced him, a late Foundation Establishment cultivator, to be at his wits' end with various means.

However, he also suffered from underestimating the enemy and lack of experience, who knew that these two strange people would suddenly pop out from Xu Zimo's body!

If he were to fight again at his peak, and not give these two a chance to ambush and set up their array, he would definitely win.

But all this was hindsight, the urgent task was to find his fellow sect members, otherwise, after his strength significantly reduced, it would be hard even to protect himself, and he might delay the plans of the sect master.

He took out a few blood marrow pills from his storage bag, intending to recover his injuries, but suddenly, his spiritual sense felt a breath from behind quickly approaching.

Gui Wu was scared to the point of having a cold sweat on his back. He was very clear that this feeling was from the mysterious boy just now!

"How can he be so fast! Isn't this fucking kid still in the early stage of the Foundation Establishment?"

Gui Wu swallowed the blood marrow pills, daring not to divert his attention to heal his injuries, and directly increased his escape speed.

Shu Han saw from behind that the old ghost had actually increased his speed again. He couldn't help but feel anxious. What he was using right now was the Shrinking Earth into Inches technique. Although the technique was not yet fully formed and couldn't really shrink the earth into inches, it had still increased his escape speed by more than three times!

"We can't even catch up to this old ghost using the Shrinking Earth into Inches technique!"

Shangguan Ruolin, holding onto Shu Han's neck, said: "Don't worry, we'll keep chasing. He's seriously injured and can't maintain this speed for long. Besides, he's a demon cultivator from the Devil Music Sect, in the Immaculate Realm he's a target for everyone. He won't be able to run far!"

"Good!"

Shu Han held a medium-grade spirit stone in his hand, continuously replenishing the consumed magic power, and kept chasing after Gui Wu without letup.

Gui Wu was frightened to the point of having chills all over his body because he felt that Shu Han was calmly chasing him from behind, while he himself was running for his life like a wounded prey being chased by a hunter.

Soon, the aftermath of his self-destructing cultivation began to show, and his escape speed gradually slowed down.

Shu Han opened the map of the Immaculate Realm. From the map, the main part of the Immaculate Realm was a suspended island, with the outside of the Sacred Mountain being the outskirts of the Immaculate Realm, and the inside of the Sacred Mountain being the interior of the Immaculate Realm.

The map in Shu Han's hands was issued by the Purple Sun Sect. It detailed the information of the outskirts of the Immaculate Realm, but his copy did not have the information of the interior of the Immaculate Realm, that is the Sacred Mountain.

This was probably a measure taken by the sect to prevent Qi Refining disciples from trespassing into the interior.

Thinking of this, Shu Han felt that this old ghost must be killed, and he must have a detailed map of the interior of the Immaculate Realm!

From the map, they were now east of the Kun trigram of the Immaculate Realm, approaching the scope of the Qian trigram. The nearest treasure land to them was the Jade Tree Forest ahead, which produced a rare treasure called the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit.

And Gui Wu, the old ghost, was flying straight towards this Jade Tree Forest.

Shu Han felt bad in his heart: "Could there be companions in the Jade Tree Forest?"

At this time, a white light flew past Shu Han in the opposite direction of their flight. Shu Han suddenly felt a chill all over his body, and his Clear Bright Spiritual Eye couldn't help but look at the white light. Under the Clear Bright Spiritual Eye, Shu Han saw a hopping rabbit in the white light.

"What is that?"

Shangguan Ruolin exclaimed, "Shu Han, that's the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit, it has gained consciousness after aging for a long time! At least three thousand years!"

"But we can't turn around to chase that now. We've chased him this far, we absolutely can't let this old ghost run away! I vaguely feel that something is not quite right!"

"You're right, we can seize natural resources at any time, but the opportunity to kill this person is only this instant!"

At this time, a thunderous sound came from the distant sky, growing from distant to near.

An old man in a green robe flew out from the Jade Tree Forest at an extremely fast speed, with thunder flickering around him, he should be a Foundation Establishment cultivator of the Green Thunder Sect!

Shu Han couldn't help but rejoice in his heart, as in the north of the Great Cloud, the Green Thunder Sect and the Devil Music Sect were mortal enemies.

'With a cultivator of the Green Thunder Sect blocking the way, old ghost, where will you run this time!'

Sure enough, seeing the cultivator of the Green Thunder Sect flying over, Gui Wu stopped in mid-air.

Shu Han also hurriedly stopped, since the cultivator of the Green Thunder Sect was present, he would leave it to him to deal with this demon cultivator, he didn't want to be counter-attacked by the demon cultivator at the brink of death.

The old man from the Green Thunder Sect arrived at the scene as fast as lightning, but it seemed as if he was chasing the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit. After being blocked by Shu Han and Gui Wu, he looked at the two with doubtful eyes, his gaze uncertain.

Shu Han saluted: "Senior, this person is a demon cultivator from the Devil Music Sect who infiltrated the Immaculate Realm! Since Senior is present, I am willing to assist Senior in killing the enemy and eradicating the demon!"

The elder in the green robe narrowed his eyes at Gui Wu, then turned to Shu Han, asking instead, "Which sect does your cultivation technique come from? You don't seem to be a disciple of the six major sects. How did you infiltrate this Immaculate Realm?"

This...

Shu Han was indeed at a loss for words. He asked, "Senior, there is a demon cultivator here. Shouldn't we first unite to eradicate the demon cultivator?"

The elder in the green robe snorted coldly, but said, "Every Immaculate Realm has demon cultivators, it's not surprising. But it's the first time for a rogue cultivator like you with no sect to infiltrate! Let me take you down first, interrogate you thoroughly, and then deal with this demon cultivator."

"What?!" Shu Han was shocked, "Deal with me first? By then, this demon cultivator will have run away!"

"He can't run!"

With that, the elder in the green robe took out a long whip flashing with electric light, looking at Shu Han with cold eyes.

Gui Wu laughed loudly, naturally standing next to the elder in the green robe, saying, "Old man, let's not play games! Although this young man is in the early stage of Foundation Establishment and the woman is in the Qi Refining stage, they are not ordinary people! Let's take them down together!"

Shangguan Ruolin directly sacrificed the Six Harmonies Silk Bracelet and shouted in Shu Han's ear, "Let's go! They've already joined forces!"

Damn it!

Shu Han grabbed Shangguan Ruolin and turned to run, releasing a hundred Fire God Talismans, which exploded into a fire cloud in the sky. Taking advantage of their dizziness, he used the Shrinking Earth into Inches technique to quickly escape.

Crack!

Tiny thunders erupted from the fire cloud.

The elder in the green robe stared, and Shu Han had already become a small dot, his old face couldn't help but twitch. Then he scolded the weakened Gui Wu, "Are all the people in the Devil Music Sect as useless as you? Being chased by a cultivator in the early stage of Foundation Establishment! If it wasn't for me chasing the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit, you'd be finished!"

Gui Wu retorted, "Hump! You haven't fought with them, of course you can talk big!" Then he pointed in the direction Shu Han was fleeing and said, "Hurry up and chase! They seem to know a bit about the plan, we absolutely can't let this man and woman live! Otherwise, if the plan goes wrong, your sect leader will not spare you!"

Chapter 97. Yin Spring

The situation had turned. Now it was Shu Han's turn to run for his life, with the elder in the green robe chasing after him like the wind.

The Silent Heartbreak Formation could trap someone in the late stage of Foundation Establishment, but it needed time to set up. Moreover, without the restraining effect of Shu Han's Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, he was afraid he would be taken down by the elder in the green robe in a face-to-face confrontation.

Fortunately, the Shrinking Earth into Inches technique was fast enough, and the elder in the green robe couldn't close the distance.

However, Shu Han was worried. Initially, the elder in the green robe and the demon cultivator didn't seem to know each other, but they joined forces as soon as they met, suggesting that the Devil Music Sect and the Green Thunder Sect had secretly reached some agreement.

In that case, all the cultivators from the Green Thunder Sect in this Immaculate Realm would be enemies!

As far as Shu Han knew, the cultivators from the Green Thunder Sect always took up most of the places in the Immaculate Realm. Considering the current situation, he seemed to be the fish in the barrel!

Shu Han felt that the elder in the green robe was slowly getting closer behind him, and he couldn't help but become anxious. If he continued to fly in this Immaculate Realm, he would eventually encounter other Green Thunder Sect cultivators. At that time, he would truly have nowhere to run.

Shangguan Ruolin's face didn't look good at this moment either. She said, "Our situation is extremely bad now. It seems like the two major Nascent Soul sects in the north of the Great Cloud have reached some agreement for this Immaculate Realm. The Immaculate Realm is a hundred times more dangerous than before!"

Then, she turned Shu Han's face to her and said, "Shu Han, we must shake this person off immediately. Use my Golden Core to speed up our escape!"

Shu Han nodded. Now was not the time to be reluctant to deplete Shangguan Ruolin's Golden Core.

However, Shu Han suddenly realized something. His Clear Bright Spiritual Eye saw the rabbit transformed from the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit escaping not far away! Shangguan Ruolin's eyes brightened, and she quickly said, "Shu Han! Follow that rabbit! Cunning rabbits have three burrows, it has been living in the Immaculate Realm for thousands of years, it must have a safe place!"

"Okay!"

Shu Han immediately changed his direction of escape and chased after the rabbit.

The jade rabbit was hiding in the forest. Suddenly feeling Shu Han rushing towards it, it was frightened and squeaked, turning into a white light and rushing towards the Sacred Mountain in the Immaculate Realm.

At this time, the Sacred Mountain in the Immaculate Realm was still spewing white light, indicating that the interior of the Immaculate Realm had not yet opened. No matter from which direction one entered, they would be strangled by the seven-colored cloud of the Immaculate Realm.

"Linlin, this guy is heading straight for the Sacred Mountain in the Immaculate Realm, should we still follow?"

Shangguan Ruolin gritted her teeth, "Follow closely! This kind of spiritual herb with intelligence is smarter than you think, it definitely won't gamble with its own life!"

Shu Han absolutely trusted Shangguan Ruolin's judgment, and immediately followed the jade rabbit without hesitation, approaching the Sacred Mountain in the Immaculate Realm.

The elder in the green robe who was chasing after them frowned deeply, "What is this kid doing running towards the Sacred Mountain? The Sacred Mountain hasn't opened yet, he's courting death!"

After flying at high speed for an hour, Shu Han finally arrived at the foot of the Sacred Mountain in the Immaculate Realm. At this point, the white light spewing from the mountaintop transformed into a seven-colored cloud slowly descending. All beings in the Immaculate Realm instinctively kept their distance from this cloud, except for the jade rabbit, which charged towards it.

Shu Han's heart couldn't help but beat faster. He had heard stories about waiting for the rabbit when he was a child, could it be that this thousand-year-old jade rabbit was going to crash into the seven-colored cloud and die?

The jade rabbit turned its head to see that Shu Han was still hot on its heels. It zigzagged and suddenly plunged into the seven-colored cloud.

As soon as the jade rabbit entered the seven-colored cloud, it was pressed by the cloud to the point where its body was distorted. It rolled on the ground continuously, finally fainting. The white light on its body disappeared, and it degenerated into a cracked Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit.

Seeing this scene, Shu Han and Shangguan Ruolin looked at each other, and laughter appeared in their eyes.

That was what ordinary people saw. But under the Clear Bright Spiritual Eye, it was a completely different scene.

As soon as the jade rabbit jumped into the cloud, it immediately used an illusion technique. Its real body swaggered through the cloud and disappeared without a trace.

"Shu Han! Remember that spot! We'll rush in with one breath!"

So Shu Han, following the spot where the jade rabbit had jumped in, plunged headlong into the seven-colored cloud.

The elder in the green robe chasing after them watched Shu Han plunge into the seven-colored cloud and couldn't help but sneer, "I don't know where this loose cultivator came from. He must not know the taboo of this Immaculate Realm. Before the seven-colored cloud disappears, no one can enter the Sacred Mountain. Well, you being killed by this seven-colored cloud saves me the trouble of taking action! But it's a pity about the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit just now. Judging by its appearance, it must have been at least a thousand years old."

Saying this, the elder in the green robe shook his head and left the area around the Sacred Mountain.

On this side, Shu Han, holding Shangguan Ruolin's hand, was walking through this seven-colored cloud passage. His Clear Bright Spiritual Eye saw everything clearly. This place should have been enveloped by the seven-colored cloud, but for some mysterious reason, the destructive power of the seven-colored cloud was neutralized here.

He didn't dare to walk randomly in the cloud, not knowing whether the seven-colored cloud had been neutralized. He could only advance step by step along the footsteps left by the jade rabbit. Suddenly, a stone wall appeared in front of them. The stone wall was towering, leaving only a crack for people to pass through. The rabbit's footprints led into this crack.

He walked in front of Shangguan Ruolin, exploring along the crack, only to find another stone wall inside, leaving three branching paths. Shangguan Ruolin touched the surrounding stone wall and said, "This is a maze. Judging by the array patterns on the stone wall, it can probably trap cultivators at the Golden Core stage!"

"Ah!" Shu Han was shocked, "Then we should hurry up and leave!"

"Don't panic!" Shangguan Ruolin observed, "This array hasn't been activated yet, and the jade rabbit has already shown me the way. It seems like it often comes here to hide. Following its footprints, there should be no problem."

So they used the Clear Bright Spiritual Eye to observe the spiritual footprints left by the jade rabbit, following its footprints around in the maze. Eventually, they passed through the last stone wall and arrived at a clearing where the spiritual energy was extremely rich.

The surrounding area was an array of stone walls, and an extremely cold air rushed towards them, nearly freezing their breaths.

Shu Han was fine. His body had been tempered with ten thousand years of profound ice for half a year, and he could fully withstand this kind of cold. However, because Shangguan Ruolin had not yet recovered her cultivation, she couldn't help but curl up, naturally seeking warmth in Shu Han's arms.

Shu Han looked toward the center of the clearing and found that the cold air all came from a small pond in the center.

The cold air overflowed from the pond, while the jade rabbit drank leisurely from the pond. Next to it was a rabbit hole made of jade tree branches.

Shangguan Ruolin shivered and said, "Shu Han, no wonder the seven-colored cloud has no effect here, it's neutralized by this Yin spring! If I'm not mistaken, the Immaculate Realm is a symmetric structure of Tai Chi Eight Trigrams, and this Yin spring is the Yin position of the Immaculate Realm! No wonder this Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit has such cultivation, it turns out that it's been nourishing itself here."

She pointed to the Yin spring and said, "This is a good opportunity. Your ten-thousand-year profound ice is too small. Even if you wear it all the time, it's hard to cultivate a true Heavenly Cold Body. But with this Yin spring water, you'll be able to cultivate it!"

"What about you?"

Shangguan Ruolin smiled and said, "Silly boy, of course I'll benefit too. This Yin spring water can enhance my Yin element. First, we'll set up a formation at the exit to prevent the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit from escaping! Then we'll take the Yin spring!"

Chapter 98. Yin Spring Breakthrough

Shu Han immediately set up the Silent Heartbreak Formation at the exit of this place.

The rabbit transformed by the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit saw Shu Han and Shangguan Ruolin blocking the exit and was so scared that it squealed in fright. Seeing that there was no place to escape, it hid in its own rabbit hole, shivering with fear.

Shu Han, holding Shangguan Ruolin, braced the cold and walked to the edge of the Yin Spring. He picked up a jade bottle and began to fill it with the Yin spring water.

The jade rabbit trembled with rage at this sight, its teeth chattering as if to say, "Those are mine, don't take them!"

In a hurry, it rushed over and gave Shu Han a rabbit kick. Shu Han caught it with a backhand, using his black claw to grip the jade rabbit, and directly sealed the energy in the rabbit's body with magic power, preventing it from escaping.

Flicking the rabbit's small head, he laughed and said, "I was going to catch you later, but I didn't expect you to deliver yourself to my doorstep!" The rabbit was so angry that its ears puffed up, and it bit Shu Han's hand. Shu Han couldn't help but laugh, "You little rabbit still dare to resist, watch me refine you into a pill!"

With that, a mighty pill fire sprouted from Shu Han's hands.

The jade rabbit was so scared that it stiffened, and actually fainted with its four legs up in the air on Shu Han's black claw.

"Playing dead?"

Without further ado, Shu Han immediately applied the pill fire.

The jade rabbit completely submitted this time. It actually knelt on Shu Han's black claw, begging for mercy by knocking its head on Shu Han's claw. Then, it spitted out a blue and white sphere, holding it up in its paws as a peace offering to Shu Han.

Shu Han looked at this small sphere and asked, "What's this?"

Shangguan Ruolin picked up the sphere and sniffed it. Immediately, a look of surprise appeared on her face. "This is the essence of the Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit! It can be taken directly to absorb the medicinal power of the Grand Yin Fruit, which is greatly beneficial to cultivation!"

"Oh!" Shu Han picked up the jade rabbit, surprised, "This little thing has such capabilities!"

Shangguan Ruolin took the jade rabbit from Shu Han's hands, examined it closely, and said, "Shu Han, we've found a treasure. This is a Jade Tree Grand Yin Fruit that has awakened its spirit. As long as we can keep feeding it spiritual herbs and stones, providing it with enough spiritual energy, it can continuously produce this essence! It's like an automatic pill furnace!"

"Oh! It's so amazing!"

The jade rabbit sat in Shangguan Ruolin's palm. She poured out a bottle of pills in front of it, and it couldn't resist the temptation and ate them.

After chewing a bottle of pills, it affectionately rubbed against Shangguan Ruolin's hand, climbed to her shoulder, and licked her snow-white neck. Its tiny tongue tickled her, making her laugh.

Seeing the jade rabbit lightly lick Shangguan Ruolin's tender neck, Shu Han couldn't help but feel envious.

He was inferior to a rogue rabbit!

Thus, he spoke with a somber tone, "Linlin, roast this medicinal rabbit over the pill fire, sprinkle some seasoning, it'll surely make a splendid pairing with wine!"

However, the rabbit, as if understanding Shu Han's words, shivered, hiding within Shangguan Ruolin's hair, refusing to emerge.

Shangguan Ruolin laughed, "Stop jesting. This spiritual rabbit is naturally to be nurtured carefully to reveal its true value."

Following that, she plucked the essence of the Grand Yin fruit and offered it to Shu Han, saying, "This is a prime opportunity. You are but one step away from the middle stage of the Foundation Establishment. Consume this essence, immerse yourself in the Yin Spring, and draw in its energy. I trust you can break through the bottleneck!"

Shu Han cast a glance at the adjacent Yin Spring, shivering uncontrollably.

"Soak in the Yin Spring? Won't I freeze to death?"

Shangguan Ruolin replied, "You won't. Your body has already been reformed by the Profound Ice, giving you certain resistance to extreme cold. Moreover, this Grand Yin fruit essence will prevent your heart meridian from freezing, and with my Golden Core, you can surely withstand immersing in the Yin spring."

Worried, Shu Han asked, "Linlin, you're currently weak, without a Golden Core to protect you, how will you resist the cold from the Yin Spring?"

"No worries, with my current cultivation, I can recite the Golden Light Divine Incantation for protection, and with the rabbit's company, I can withstand this cold."

Shu Han nodded, trusting Shangguan Ruolin's judgment. Then, he took the initiative to capture her lips, drawing the Golden Core into his body.

Shangguan Ruolin didn't resist, considering that they had practiced cultivation together every night for the past half year, they had become accustomed to it, dispelling any initial barriers.

Once protected by the Golden Core, Shu Han swallowed the Grand Yin fruit's essence, instantly feeling the overwhelming Grand Yin essence flowing from his mouth into his body. Following Shangguan Ruolin's guidance, he dove into the Yin Spring, filled with Yin energy.

The bone-chilling cold of the Yin Spring instantly invaded his body, nearly robbing him of his senses.

He involuntarily curled up in the spring water, yet Shangguan Ruolin, from the shore, advised, "Don't resist the cold. Lead it into your body, let it resonate with the Profound Ice's cold, while simultaneously absorbing the Grand Yin fruit's essence!"

Therefore, Shu Han relaxed his body, letting the cold stimulate his meridians and dantian.

The Millennial Profound Ice on his neck, stimulated by the Yin Spring, began to emanate a dazzling blue light. The icy waters of the Yin Spring were absorbed through his skin, circulating through his meridians, and began transforming Shu Han's body together with the Millennial Profound Ice.

The rabbit, perched on Shangguan Ruolin's shoulder, watched Shu Han soaking in the Yin Spring, squeaking anxiously as if saying, "That's my drinking water! It's not for your bath!"

Shangguan Ruolin took out a bottle of elixir to calm the rabbit, as her body began to encrust with frost around the Yin Spring. She quickly sat cross-legged, clutching a mid-grade spirit stone, reciting the Golden Divine Incantation, resisting the cold.

Once the rabbit finished the elixir, it saw Shangguan Ruolin struggle against the cold and blew a breath of Grand Yin spirit energy into her ear, helping to ease the freezing trend.

Shangguan Ruolin stroked its small head, sitting patiently by the Yin Spring, observing Shu Han's transformation.

Time slipped by, and Shu Han had soaked in the Yin Spring for three days. Shangguan Ruolin looked up, noticing the seven-colored cloud in the sky was gradually fading away. This indicated that the opening of the Immaculate Realm was imminent.

Upon seeing this, the rabbit panicked, squeaking frantically, and earnestly gestured something to Shangguan Ruolin with its forepaws.

Shangguan Ruolin watched it several times, asking with confusion, "Are you saying that the Yin cold energy and the seven-colored cloud counterbalance each other, enabling us to survive here? If the seven-colored cloud fades, the Yin cold energy will freeze us all to death?"

The rabbit nodded eagerly.

Shangguan Ruolin looked at Shu Han, who was at a crucial point in his breakthrough.

"This is not good at all! I need to give him a boost, otherwise, it'll be tough for him to break through before the seven-colored cloud fades!"

Gritting her teeth, Shangguan Ruolin addressed the rabbit, "Little one, grant me some Grand Yin spiritual energy for protection!"

The rabbit tilted its head, not understanding what she was planning to do, but it exhaled a thread of Grand Yin essence that coiled around Shangguan Ruolin.

Shangguan Ruolin put down the rabbit, took a deep breath, and dove into the icy spring.

The bone-chilling cold made her shiver from head to toe. Immediately, she straddled Shu Han's legs, her thighs wrapped around his waist, holding him, who was in the midst of a breakthrough, in her arms. She tapped into the power of the Golden Core within Shu Han, initiating their combined cultivation.

"Breakthrough for me!" she commanded.

Chapter 99. Breakthrough to the Mid-Stage

The Yin Spring cold water, the Grand Yin essence of the jade rabbit, and Shangguan Ruolin's life Golden Core - the three combined forces aiding Shu Han in breaking through the bottleneck of the Foundation Establishment mid-stage. Having cultivated together with Shangguan Ruolin for half a year, the essence of the Golden Core had already pushed Shu Han to the edge of the bottleneck, right to the threshold.

However, due to Shu Han's five-element spiritual roots and the complex Mystical Dragon Triple Rotation Divine Art, it was extremely difficult for him to succeed. Today, with the assistance of the three types of spiritual power, that seemingly insurmountable barrier was shattered.

The rushing spiritual power, like a roaring flood, expanded in a broader realm before returning to tranquility.

Shu Han took a deep breath, awakening from deep meditation.

Upon awakening, he felt something soft in his arms. Looking down, he found that it was Shangguan Ruolin, who was clinging to him in the Yin Spring. Shangguan Ruolin was soaking wet, her golden silk jade robe clung tightly to her delicate body due to the Yin Spring water, her skin vaguely visible beneath.

However, Shu Han didn't have the time to appreciate the beauty in his arms, because Shangguan Ruolin had frozen stiff in the Yin Spring.

Originally, she needed the Golden Light Divine Incantation to resist the cold even at the edge of the Yin Spring, let alone diving into it.

Shu Han was puzzled, "I could have broken through on my own. There was no need for you to help me like this."

At this moment, the rabbit was squeaking and hopping around frantically on the shore. He quickly picked up Shangguan Ruolin, took her to the shore, and immediately used his magic power to stimulate her circulation and absorb the cold energy. The rabbit, however, ran over and bit the corner of his robe, intending to drag him towards the exit.

"I need to hurry and drive out the cold for her, stop messing around, or I'll stew you!"

The rabbit was almost mad with exasperation. Its little eyes looked towards the sky, where the seven-colored cloud was fading, and the Yin Spring's cold was gradually intensifying. It rushed to Shangguan Ruolin and exhaled another thread of Grand Yin essence.

With this bit of Grand Yin essence, Shangguan Ruolin regained a bit of consciousness.

"Go! Hurry up!"

After uttering these three words, Shangguan Ruolin fell unconscious again.

Shu Han also realized that something was wrong. No wonder the rabbit was frantically trying to drag him to the exit earlier. So, he picked up Shangguan Ruolin, grabbed the rabbit, and fled to the exit, dispelling the Silent Heartbreak Formation.

However, at this time, the maze's formation was beginning to activate. The surrounding walls were flashing with blue patterns, and the walls began to move slowly. The original entrance had already changed.

"Damn it! This maze can trap even Nascent Soul stage cultivators! We must escape before it fully activates."

Shu Han levitated, intending to fly out of the maze on the stone wall. However, he had underestimated the situation. As soon as he took off, he was harshly forced down by the barrier spell, and the strength of this spell was gradually increasing. Soon, he wouldn't even be able to float.

'No wonder Linlin took the risk to help me break through in the Yin Spring, there wasn't enough time. What should I do now!'

Immediately, Shu Han turned his gaze to the rabbit, thinking.

"Since you've been lingering around here for years, you should be able to lead me to the exit before the formation is fully activated!"

As soon as the rabbit touched the ground, its nose twitched and it immediately began to run wildly within the maze.

Shu Han hurriedly followed, weaving through the stone walls with the rabbit.

Suddenly, he felt a burning pain on his back. He reached back and found that his robe had been frozen into shards. The truly terrifying cold of the Yin Spring was spreading.

"Rogue rabbit, run faster! Otherwise, we'll both freeze to death here!"

However, the rabbit's speed was hindered by Shu Han's magic power. Shu Han withdrew the restriction in its body, freeing the rabbit's power.

Once freed, the rabbit abruptly accelerated, turning into a streak of light weaving through the formation.

Shu Han used the Shrinking Earth into Inches technique to follow closely, finally breaking out of the stone wall maze before the formation was fully activated.

After breaking out, Shu Han breathed a sigh of relief. Looking back, he saw blue and white light radiating from the center of the stone formation. The stone walls under the illumination of the blue and white light revealed clear patterns and began to change unpredictably, and the surrounding soil turned into frozen earth under the light.

"Thank heaven we got out in time!"

Shu Han thought, this place is so dangerous, it must be a forbidden area inside the Immaculate Realm. Not having a map of the internal layout at the Foundation Establishment stage, he was initially unaware.

The fading of the seven-colored cloud meant that the interior of the Immaculate Realm had opened, and cultivators in the later stages of the Foundation Establishment from various sects should be exploring the interior, striving for the Heavenly Creation Fluid.

If he wanted to snatch the Heavenly Creation Fluid from these people, a detailed map of the interior of the Immaculate Realm was a necessity.

'But who should I snatch it from? If I'm to snatch it, I need to act fast. Otherwise, when all the cultivators in the late Foundation Establishment stage from various sects gather on the Divine Mountain, there will be no chance for me to snatch it.'

While pondering future strategies, Shu Han continuously channeled his magic power to the unconscious Shangguan Ruolin.

Looking at Shangguan Ruolin's pale cheeks, he couldn't help but sigh. Initially, it was this Core Formation cultivator who forced him to escort her. But after a series of events, he had received countless favors from her.

Shu Han pressed his cheek against Shangguan Ruolin's frozen face, whispering, "Don't worry, I will get the Heavenly Creation Fluid for you."

At this moment, the rabbit that had run away returned, hiding in the bushes and peeking at Shangguan Ruolin, then at Shu Han. Its small eyes were filled with hesitation.

To Shu Han's surprise, it finally ran over slowly, lying on Shangguan Ruolin's chest to help her dispel the cold.

Shu Han couldn't help but laugh, "So you, the rogue rabbit, also like Linlin. Let me check your gender."

With that, Shu Han grabbed the rabbit, disregarding its squeaking protests, and spread its legs apart.

Releasing the rabbit, Shu Han nodded and laughed, "Well, it's female."

The rabbit seemed to feel greatly humiliated, baring its teeth and squeaking at Shu Han like a small dog.

Seeing this, Shu Han took out a bottle of elixir herbs. The little rabbit's eyes sparkled and it reached out its front paws to grab it.

However, Shu Han caught the rabbit off guard, grabbed it, threw it directly into the black jar, sealed the jar with his magic power, and then threw it into Shangguan Ruolin's jade pendant.

"Hmm, you're a good rabbit, I want one too. Judging by your spiritual power, it should take about half a day to clone another one. Before that, stay in the jar and behave."

The rabbit desperately scratched at the jar from inside, but found it impenetrable. Its despairing eyes shed tears of regret. It seemed to be crying out, lamenting its trust in this vile foreigner.

Shu Han continued to help Shangguan Ruolin dispel the cold from outside.

Thus, half a day passed in a blink.

Shu Han sent his divine sense into the jade pendant and found that there was still only one rabbit in the black jar.

"Could it be that this rabbit has such a large amount of spiritual power? It's been so long, the jar could have created more than sixty medium-grade spirit stones! Could this rabbit's spiritual power exceed that of sixty medium-grade spirit stones? In that case, little rabbit, you'll have to bear with it a little longer and stay in the jar!"

Chapter 100. Encounter with the Golden Silkworm Association

Without a break, Shu Han continued to absorb the cold energy from Shangguan Ruolin's body, gradually freezing himself as well.

Suddenly, Shu Han's spiritual sense detected something unusual in the surroundings. He quickly hid with Shangguan Ruolin, held his breath, and observed the surroundings.

Soon, he saw ten Qi Refining stage cultivators cautiously stepping into the boundary of the Yin Spring Maze.

With a glance from his Clear Bright Spiritual Eye, Shu Han recognized that their robes were identical to those worn by Cui Xiangming from Treasure Light Pavilion, all members of the Golden Silkworm Association.

"This is the interior of the Immaculate Realm. How did these Qi Refining cultivators get here?"

These cultivators were carefully exploring the Yin Spring Maze. Shu Han watched in silence, knowing that these Qi Refining cultivators would be instantly frozen to death once they touched the Yin Spring's cold energy. To come here in search of treasure was just seeking death!

Sure enough, the cultivator at the front suddenly touched the invisible cold and instantly screamed as he was frozen into ice shards, shattering on the spot.

The scene terrified the other cultivators, who retreated several tens of steps.

The leader shouted, "This is the place! Everyone, activate your treasure bottles and absorb the cold energy!"

So, the remaining nine people each took out a jade bottle. Infusing their magic power into the bottle, the invisible Yin Spring cold energy was absorbed by the bottles. Shu Han understood that these cultivators were ordered to absorb the Yin Spring cold energy.

They could pinpoint this place either because they had a map of the Immaculate Realm's interior, or... they were guided by a late Foundation Establishment stage cultivator.

Thinking about this, Shu Han suddenly felt a chill down his spine and quickly rolled to the side.

At this moment, a purple light shot from the forest, hitting the spot where Shu Han had just hidden.

Shu Han immediately went on alert. His Clear Bright Spiritual Eye scanned the direction of the attack, and he saw a young woman standing on a distant tree, looking at him coldly.

A powerful cultivator from the Golden Silkworm Association in the late Foundation Establishment stage!

Immediately, Shu Han became cautious and used his Heaven-Earth Transformation Art to change his appearance.

The Golden Silkworm Association had once put a bounty on him; he couldn't let this woman recognize him.

The woman floated over, looked at Shu Han, and then turned her gaze to Shangguan Ruolin, who was held tightly in Shu Han's arms. Her brows furrowed deeply, and she angrily said, "How dare you! Who are you to behave so rudely towards Senior Shangguan? You're seeking death!"

With that, her spiritual power radiated from her body, and a purple pair of big scissors appeared in her hand. The aura was chilling, and intimidating, and upon seeing it, one could not help but feel a chill run down their legs.

"Wait!" Shu Han hastily intervened, "Do not strike without understanding the situation! Do you recognize her?"

"What kind of question is that? Everyone in the Golden Silkworm Association knows her! This journey into the Immaculate Realm was led by none other than Senior Shangguan!"

A buzzing sensation…

Upon hearing this, Shu Han was completely stunned on the spot. In an instant, he realized that the Senior Shangguan this woman spoke of and the one in his arms was not the same person!

So, Shangguan Ruotong, that madwoman, had also entered the Immaculate Realm!

Shu Han felt as if the entire Immaculate Realm was suffocating, making it difficult for anyone to breathe.

With the Devil Music Sect chasing after him and the betrayal from the Green Thunder Sect, and now the persistent Shangguan Ruotong! Could he even live peacefully in the Immaculate Realm?

Shu Han lamented in his heart, "Linlin, please wake up soon. If not, we should just flee. Let's leave behind the Heavenly Creation Fluid. Our lives are more important. I promise to provide for you in the future."

He forced himself to calm down.

Shu Han thought that the members of the Golden Silkworm Association must have spread out. Even if he met this woman, it didn't mean Shangguan Ruotong was nearby. And since the two sisters looked nearly identical, he could potentially use Shangguan Ruolin's identity to get some information.

Thus, Shu Han spoke, "I'm glad to hear this. As I was passing by, I saw Senior coming out of the stone formation over there. But she was invaded by a cold energy. Before she fainted, she instructed me to stay by her side and rid her of this coldness. I dared not defy her, so I've been absorbing the cold energy from her. I had no ill intentions."

The woman glanced at Shangguan Ruolin, noticing her frosted face, filled with a chilling aura, and believed Shu Han's earlier statement.

However, she couldn't help but question, "If you and Senior Shangguan are strangers, and absorbing this cold energy harms you, why would you stay by her side? Don't tell me it's merely out of the goodness of your heart."

Shu Han gave a wry smile, "You're right. To be honest, I was forced. When Senior Shangguan emerged, she saw me trying to flee and placed a restriction within me. If I stop dispelling the coldness for her, this restriction would sever my meridians and I'd perish. Senior Shangguan promised to grant me a late-stage magic treasure upon her awakening. But absorbing this cold energy harms my cultivation foundation, so I don't really want to continue... Perhaps, could you assist me in dispelling this coldness?"

Upon hearing this, the woman laughed, "Since it's a special task from Senior Shangguan, I shouldn't steal your credit. Keep up the good work." Saying so, she approached Shu Han with her large scissors, stating, "In the meantime, you must stay close and follow us. If you dare to escape, you will be shown no mercy."

Shu Han nodded vigorously, "While I work on dispelling the cold, it's reassuring to have members of the Golden Silkworm Association nearby to protect the surroundings. Do you think, once I awaken the senior, she will truly reward me with a late-stage Foundation Establishment magic treasure? If I could obtain such a treasure, this trip to the Immaculate Realm wouldn't be in vain."

Seeing the glint of greed in Shu Han's eyes, the woman chuckled, "Senior Shangguan is a distinguished guest of our Golden Silkworm Association. A mere late-stage Foundation Establishment magic treasure is nothing noteworthy to her."

However, as she observed Shu Han holding Shangguan Ruolin closely, she inwardly sneered, though you might be earnest in ridding the cold energy, daring to touch Senior's pristine body in such a manner might mean you wouldn't live long.

Feigning reassurance, Shu Han inquired, "Might I ask for the name of my esteemed companion?"

The woman responded with a slight bow, "I am Che Hanyan."

"I am Yu Tiancheng."

Che Hanyan questioned, "I notice you don't seem to belong to the six sects. How did you manage to enter this Immaculate Realm?"

Shu Han then regaled Che Hanyan with a tall tale, recounting how he had once, by sheer luck, assisted an elder from the Purple Sun Sect. In gratitude, the elder secretly arranged for him to enter the Immaculate Realm. The story flowed seamlessly, and Shu Han seemed to have mastered the art of weaving tales, narrating his fabricated adventures to Che Hanyan in vivid detail.

The deeper he delved into the story, the more Che Hanyan's brow furrowed. She sheathed her large scissors and waved him off, "Enough! I have no interest in the minutiae of your life!"

Noticing her disciples had successfully absorbed the cold essence, she turned to Shu Han, "Yu Tiancheng, come, follow us into the Immaculate Realm Sacred Mountain."

Hearing this, Shu Han demurred, "The interior of the Immaculate Realm is fraught with danger. I dare not venture within."

Che Hanyan scoffed, "What are you afraid of? I have a map. There will be no issues as long as we follow it and avoid the dangers."

Shu Han inquired, "You're not going after the Heavenly Creation Fluid, are you? I wouldn't dare get involved in that. I've heard it's pursued by late-stage seniors. Entering as a mere mid-stage like me, I'd probably be obliterated!"

Che Hanyan cast her gaze toward the mountaintop, saying, "The rainbow mists haven't fully retracted yet. It's not time to fight for the Heavenly Creation Fluid. There's no need for concern."

Noticing her reluctance to divulge more, Shu Han thought, I might need to find a way to subdue her, seize the map, and interrogate her thoroughly. The Golden Silkworm Association shouldn't have the kind of tough characters as the Devil Music Sect, ones who would explode rather than betray a secret, right?

Chapter Chapter 101: Earth Goddess' Medicinal Field

Shu Han, holding Shangguan Ruolin, trailed behind Che Hanyan, who kept her spiritual sense fixed on him. While he spewed nonsensical chatter, portraying his lack of worldly knowledge, Shu Han was secretly plotting to take down Che Hanyan. He was well aware that sooner or later, Shangguan Ruolin's identity would be exposed. When that happened, everyone from the Golden Silkworm Association would become an enemy. If he could eliminate one of them now, it would be to his advantage.

Although his current cultivation was at the mid-stage of Foundation Establishment and his strength had greatly increased, he was hesitant to make a move without ascertaining Che Hanyan's abilities. He began to long for the demonic cultivators who, when subdued by the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword and the Golden Light Divine Incantation, were easily manipulated.

Che Hanyan took jade bottles from a few Qi Refining cultivators, inspected them, and commented, "Excellent, we've got the Yin Spring Cold Energy. Let's move on to the next location."

Curious, Shu Han inquired, "Where are you leading me? I hope not to the mountain's peak! Let me make myself clear, I won't go there. The Heavenly Creation Fluid is too hot to handle, and I dare not interfere."

Seeing Shu Han's timid demeanor, an annoyed Che Hanyan clarified, "I've already told you, that's not our destination!"

"Hmph! I find it hard to believe that the Golden Silkworm Association would hire a cultivator of Senior Shangguan's caliber at a hefty price and not be after the Heavenly Creation Fluid. I refuse to be your cannon fodder!"

Furious, Che Hanyan retorted, "What do I need to tell you to put your mind at ease? You're a mid-stage cultivator, yet you're as timid as a Qi Refining cultivator! Also, Senior Shangguan isn't here to assist us in obtaining the Heavenly Creation Fluid. Stop being so paranoid!"

Shu Han expressed skepticism, "If it's not for the Heavenly Creation Fluid, what else in the Immaculate Realm could possibly interest Senior Shangguan?"

Che Hanyan produced a portrait, stating, "It's no harm telling you. Look at the man in this painting."

Shu Han observed the portrait, admiringly noting, "This man has a refined appearance. Though not exceptionally handsome, he does have a pleasant charm upon longer observation..."

Annoyed, Che Hanyan interrupted, "Who asked for your critique?! I'm asking if you've seen this man. He's at the early stage of Foundation Establishment!"

Shu Han shrugged, "Never seen him before. Why do you ask?"

Che Hanyan explained, "He's the reason for Senior Shangguan's journey."

Shu Han, surprised, remarked, "Seeking a man? Surely, even at her worst, Senior Shangguan could set her sights higher than a novice at Foundation Establishment?"

On the verge of losing her temper, Che Hanyan tried to understand where this peculiarly-minded mid-stage cultivator emerged from. Struggling to control her rage, she corrected, "Stop talking nonsense! This man is being pursued by Senior Shangguan. If you can provide any information about him, there's a reward of a hundred mid-grade spirit stones!"

"Damn! One hundred! Now that you mention it, it does ring a bell!"

"Silence!" Che Hanyan snapped, unwilling to further engage with this shameless fellow.

Shu Han probed delicately, "What virtues and talents has he demonstrated to warrant such a hefty bounty? Are his accomplices also being hunted?"

"Only him," was the curt reply.

Confusion clouded Shu Han's features. Why was he the sole target? But realization dawned upon him soon after. It was because she and Shangguan Ruolin were identical in appearance. Hunting Shangguan Ruolin was tantamount to hunting her. It seemed this madwoman wasn't yet ready to air their shared dirty laundry in public. In this feud, he was the innocent caught in the crossfire.

Grasping the situation, Shu Han shifted his inquiries towards the demonic cultivators. "I've heard that the Qi Refining disciples from the Purple Sun Sect mentioned their leading elder is from the Devil Music Sect—a demonic cultivator! He started killing upon entry! Do you think the Golden Silkworm Association has been infiltrated by them?"

"Infiltrated by demonic cultivators?" Che Hanyan chuckled, "Every batch has them. But our Golden Silkworm Association has never experienced such things."

"Ah! Such tactics!"

"We purchase all our places. In each Immaculate Realm session, we openly bring them in by selling a few slots to the Devil Music Sect. What's there to infiltrate?"

Shu Han was speechless. Truly, there seemed to be no depths they wouldn't plumb.

Continuing, Shu Han casually mentioned, "I also spotted an elder from the Green Thunder Sect seemingly collaborating with a demonic cultivator. Do you think they're up to something nefarious for this Immaculate Realm?"

"Oh?" Che Hanyan perked up, "Did you truly witness this? Be careful with such claims. The Green Thunder Sect is a sworn enemy of the Devil Music Sect."

From Che Hanyan's tone, it was evident they were unaware of the demonic cultivators' schemes. Shu Han projected an illusion of the Green Thunder Sect elder conspiring with Gui Wu, causing Che Hanyan to frown deeply.

"I didn't just hear rumors; I saw it with my own eyes!"

The Golden Silkworm Association had deep connections and traded with many sects, thus Che Hanyan quickly recognized the figures in Shu Han's projection. "Those two are Elder Xu Quanyong from the Green Thunder Sect and Gui Wu from the Devil Music Sect. Publicly, they have no associations. How can they stand together so peacefully?"

Continuing his revelation, Shu Han added, "I also overheard them mention a 'Blood Soul Tracking Array'. What is that?"

Che Hanyan gave Shu Han a peculiar look, "You're quite an enigma. Not only did you stumble upon these two without harm, but you also eavesdropped on their private conversation. How did you manage that?"

Shu Han was speechless: You're really good at focusing on the point. He could only retort, "My combat skills might be lacking, but I do excel in concealing my aura. One must have a few tricks up one's sleeve when venturing out in this world!"

Che Hanyan regarded him skeptically, then mused, "Every year, our Golden Silkworm Association circulates a considerable amount of information about formations. With the accumulated knowledge over the years, I should have heard of every formation below the Nascent Soul stage. However, this is the first time I've heard about this one. It either means this formation is exceedingly rare, or it can only be deployed by those at the Nascent Soul stage."

Hearing Che Hanyan's description, Shu Han grew even more uneasy, sensing that something was amiss. Che Hanyan felt the same. Her instincts told her that Shu Han wasn't making this up, especially when there seemed to be no benefit in it for him.

Could it be that the Green Thunder Sect was genuinely conspiring with the Devil Music Sect in secret, plotting something in the Immaculate Realm?

With her acute business acumen, Che Hanyan sensed that something was off. After collecting the medicinal herbs, she planned to inform the other Golden Silkworm Association cultivators immediately. They might as well give up on obtaining the Heavenly Creation Fluid this time since their association had never succeeded in obtaining it on previous occasions anyway.

While she had her plans, Shu Han had his own.

From Che Hanyan's account, it seemed that the Green Thunder Sect and Devil Music Sect's collaboration was covert, which meant other sects were unaware. If he could expose the conspiracy between these two major sects and inform the other sects, he could harness their collective power to thwart the Devil Music Sect's plans. Regardless of the Devil Music Sect's clandestine intentions—even if it was something as innocuous as sightseeing—he couldn't let them succeed!

Thus, Shu Han followed Che Hanyan deeper into the mountain. After a circuitous journey with Che Hanyan, avoiding certain areas, they finally reached a valley within the mountain.

As they approached the valley's edge, Shu Han was greeted with a fragrant herbal aroma.

Impressive! A medicinal field!

But this field was unusual. From a distance, the entire valley was bathed in an orange-yellow glow. The herbs in the field weren't rooted in the soil but floated within the glow as if rooted in thin air.

"What a peculiar medicinal field. Why are the herbs floating in the air?"

Che Hanyan explained, "This is the Immaculate Realm's Earth Goddess' Divine Glow, imbued with pure earthly energy. Bathing in this divine light allows the herbs to grow at tenfold their usual speed."

Observing the Earth Goddess' Divine Glow, Shu Han couldn't help but marvel, "The Immaculate Realm truly is wondrous."

However, at that moment, Shu Han sensed that the Grand Yin Jade Rabbit within the black jar suddenly ceased its usual fidgeting, shuddering, and retracting into the jar.

"What are you afraid of? Speaking of which, why is it only you? Can't the jar replicate you?"

Chapter Chapter 102: Shangguan Ruotong's Attack

Having waited for a long while and still seeing no replication of the Jade Rabbit in the black jar, Shu Han felt that something was amiss. By his calculations based on time, the black jar should have been able to replicate over a hundred mid-grade spirit stones by now.

A single mid-grade spirit stone encapsulates at least the spiritual power of a cultivator in the initial stages of the Foundation Establishment. Over a hundred of them would mean a combined spiritual power comparable to someone in the Core Formation stage.

The Jade Rabbit didn't seem to possess the robust spiritual power typical of the Core Formation stage. Why couldn't it be replicated? Could it be that the black jar, in addition to not replicating man-made items, also couldn't replicate sentient beings? If he crushed this rabbit, reverting it to its original form as the Moonshade Jade Fruit, could it then be replicated?

However, this thought was fleeting. An awakened Grand Yin Jade Fruit was far more valuable than one that was dormant. It was a qualitative difference that quantitative change couldn't match.

Yet, seeing the Jade Rabbit looking so anxious inside the black jar, Shu Han couldn't help but wonder if there was something in the Earth Goddess' Divine Glow medicinal field that it feared.

With that thought, Shu Han instinctively moved behind the group.

Che Hanyan glanced at him, thinking, "What a coward."

"Golden Silkworm Association disciples, form up! Prepare the Cloud Boat to break through the restriction!"

"Yes!"

Nine Qi Refining disciples promptly produced bronze formation components, chanting spells and making hand seals in unison. Their techniques interwove, lifting the formation components into the air, and connecting them with formation patterns.

Using the bronze components as the framework and the formation patterns as channels, a blue-white long boat materialized above them.

"Charge!"

With a wave of their hands, the boat slowly ventured into the dense Earth Goddess' Divine Glow.

However, the boat's magic power quickly waned. The Earth Goddess' Divine Glow appeared extremely viscous and challenging to navigate.

Seeing this, Che Hanyan jumped onto the boat and infused it with her late Foundation Establishment stage magic power. The boat regained its momentum, continuing its journey into the Earth Goddess' Divine Glow, albeit with difficulty. Without delay, she called out, "Fellow daoist Yu, please assist! Help power the formation to enter the medicinal field!"

Shu Han wasn't keen on entering the field and replied, "I'm sorry, my magic power is currently aiding Senior Shangguan in healing, so I can't help right now!"

"Fellow daoist Yu!" Che Hanyan's brow furrowed, her voice cold, "This isn't a request! Act swiftly. If anything goes wrong, any losses suffered by the Golden Silkworm Association will be on your head."

'Damn! Is this how you ask for a favor?'

Shu Han's intent to kill grew increasingly strong. Now, with Che Hanyan using most of her magic power on the formation, it was an excellent opportunity for him. He sneered inwardly, thinking, "Since you sincerely asked for my help, I'll graciously grant you a taste of my Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword!"

Mighty magic power began to boil within Shu Han. The Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword in his storage bag resonated loudly. Just as he was about to launch a deadly strike under the guise of aiding the formation, a loud shout came from behind.

"Fellow daoist Che! I didn't expect you to reach the Earth Goddess Garden first!"

Shu Han immediately held back his murderous intent and instead began assisting Che Hanyan with the formation.

Turning to look, another group from the Golden Silkworm Association had arrived.

Leading them was a middle-aged man adorned in luxurious garments and decorated with multicolored gems. He seemed to glow with a treasure-like radiance.

Che Hanyan laughed, "Ah, fellow daoist Xiao, it's good that you're here. I'm having trouble entering this Earth Goddess' Divine Glow. Could you lend a hand?"

The man named Xiao chuckled, "We're both from the Golden Silkworm Association, of course!"

Suddenly, his eyes fixed on Shu Han and the figure he held, his face changing dramatically.

"You! Who are you?! Who's that in your arms?"

Che Hanyan replied, puzzled, "Fellow daoist Xiao, are your eyes playing tricks? Can't you recognize Senior Shangguan?"

Daoist Xiao waved his golden sleeve, "Impossible! I met Senior Shangguan just half a day ago. She led a group to patrol the outskirts of the Immaculate Realm! She's currently headed to the Kan position region. There's no way she could be here!"

"What?!"

Both Shu Han and Che Hanyan exclaimed in shock.

Che Hanyan stepped off the boat, approaching Shu Han with suspicion. After scrutinizing the person in Shu Han's arms, she questioned, "Based on appearance and demeanor, this indeed looks like Senior Shangguan Ruotong. Fellow daoist Xiao, could you have mistaken?"

Daoist Xiao moved closer and said, "Mistaken? Absolutely not. Senior Shangguan Ruotong even gave me a cold glance. I could never forget that look. However, this person does resemble the senior but seems much weaker. What's going on?"

Che Hanyan relayed Shu Han's earlier explanation to Daoist Xiao. He frowned, his gaze piercing into Shu Han, his entire body glowing brilliantly, and demanded, "Are you making up stories? Who is she? And who are you? Tell the truth!"

In this situation, any chance to take action had evaporated!

Shu Han suppressed his anxiety and feigned ignorance, "I really don't know what you two seniors are talking about. I'm just passing by! This senior here was just a chance encounter. What are you saying? That she isn't who you think? I'm so confused."

Looking at Shu Han's innocent demeanor, Che Hanyan said, "This situation is indeed problematic. What should we do?"

Daoist Xiao gazed at Shangguan Ruolin's charming figure, his pupils slightly constricted. He couldn't help but reach out, suggesting, "Shall I check her identity?"

Shu Han thought, Do you have a death wish?

Che Hanyan hurriedly held him back, angrily saying, "Are you seeking death? Even if she isn't Senior Shangguan Ruotong, judging by her appearance and demeanor, she is likely closely related to the senior! And you dare to take advantage of the situation?"

Hearing this, Daoist Xiao reigned in his lecherous intent and said, "You're right, I was careless. Thank you for the reminder."

Daoist Xiao then suggested, "Nevertheless, we cannot let this remain unclear. Allow me to use the Distance Communication Talisman to summon Senior Shangguan! Let her personally identify this woman."

With that, a talisman emerged from his hand, flying off into the distance.

Shu Han watched anxiously. Once the talisman was sent, Shangguan Ruotong would rush over, yet he dared not stop it. With two late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators present, even one would be tricky enough. If he acted suspiciously, he would likely be captured instantly. He must restrain himself and wait for the right moment to escape or strike.

But Shu Han was well aware that time was running out. According to Daoist Xiao, Shangguan Ruotong would probably arrive in less than half a day.

With Shangguan Ruolin still unconscious and unable to use the power of her Golden Core, if she encountered Shangguan Ruotong, she would undoubtedly be captured.

As Che Hanyan watched the talisman disappear, she suggested, "Senior Shangguan Ruotong will take some time to arrive. In the meantime, let's enter the Earth Goddess Garden and gather the spiritual herbs. Fellow daoist Xiao, please assist!"

"Alright!"

Che Hanyan boarded the boat, and Daoist Xiao looked at Shu Han, saying, "What are you waiting for? Get on! Boy, don't even think about escaping!"

Shu Han looked at the garden, thinking, I can only use this garden to find an opportunity. According to the Jade Rabbit's reaction, there's danger in this garden. But even if there is, it's not as dangerous as facing Shangguan Ruotong!

He and Daoist Xiao then jumped onto the boat. Daoist Xiao kept glancing at Shangguan Ruolin in Shu Han's arms, saying, "Boy, let me hold her for you so you can rest."

Shu Han replied, "That won't do. This senior placed a restriction on me. If I stop dispelling the cold for her, I'll die."

"Oh? Is that so?"

He leaned in, taking Shangguan Ruolin's hand and checking it.

There was indeed an oppressive cold aura emanating from her.

He quickly let go, saying, "Then, please continue your efforts."

Chapter Chapter 103: Big Head's Wedding

The cloud boat sailed within the divine light of the Earth Goddess, much like gliding through a yellow ocean. The medicinal herbs around seemed like marine creatures, floating in the divine light.

Shu Han extended his consciousness outside the cloud boat and immediately felt immense pressure. If it weren't for the protection of the cloud boat, being exposed to the divine light would feel like carrying a small mountain on one's back.

Che Hanyan directed his disciples to pick the spiritual herbs that drifted by. The herbs here were all over a hundred years old, with some even nearing a thousand years. However, those nearing a thousand years had already gained a slight sense of spirituality in this divine light, evading the cloud boat in advance and fleeing elsewhere.

As they delved deeper into the divine light, the cloud boat encountered increasing resistance, and the herbs that grew were even more precious, with higher age, with occasional glimpses of thousand-year-old herbs.

Deep inside the divine light, the Grand Yin Jade Rabbit inside the jade pendant trembled more and more violently, as if sensing some imminent danger.

Shu Han frowned. Whatever scared the rabbit wasn't going to be a pushover. However, he didn't warn them and let them steer the cloud boat deeper into the divine light.

Shu Han didn't have much time to waste with them. Maybe Shangguan Ruotong was rapidly approaching. Facing Shangguan Ruotong in his current state meant certain death. It would be better to take a gamble, hoping that the entity that scared the Grand Yin Jade Rabbit could deal with these two temporarily, allowing him a chance to escape.

However, he miscalculated. The two, controlling the boat, slowed down until they eventually couldn't move any further.

Che Hanyan sighed deeply, "It seems we can only get this far this time. With our combined strength, we can't penetrate the deeper layers of the Earth Goddess's divine light. Still, the herbs produced here are also quite old. Let's start capturing them!"

Suddenly, Daoist Xiao turned to Shu Han and said, "Wait, this kid hasn't tried yet! A bit deeper, closer to the core area, there will be even more thousand-year-old herbs."

Che Hanyan looked doubtful, "How much can a mid-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator like him contribute?"

Daoist Xiao smiled, "Letting him try won't do any harm!" He then approached Shu Han, patting his shoulder, "Kid, stop absorbing the cold energy for a while and help us reach the deeper divine light of the Earth Goddess. Afterward, our Golden Silkworm Association will reward you generously!"

Shu Han replied, "As a mid-stage cultivator, I'm afraid I might disappoint the seniors."

"No worries. Just try your best. Fellow daoist Che and I will be the main force, you just need to lend a helping hand."

With that, Daoist Xiao stood at the front of the cloud boat and said to Che Hanyan, "Fellow daoist, later on, use your full strength to activate the formation. Let's see if we can push through a bit further!"

"Alright!"

Two individuals, accompanied by nine Qi Refining monks, exerted their forces in unison. The cloud boat once again invoked its barrier-breaking power, inching them forward ever so slowly.

At that moment, Che Hanyan exclaimed, "Fellow daoist Yu, now's the moment!"

Shu Han gazed ahead at the increasingly dense divine light of the Earth Goddess, a wicked smirk playing on his lips, "If you say so, don't blame me later."

Triple Rotation Avatar Technique!

Whoosh!

Three iterations of Shu Han materialized at the stern of the boat, with the overpowering magic power of the Mystical Dragon Triple Rotation Divine Art rushing madly into the forbidden formation of the cloud boat.

The Mystical Dragon Triple Rotation Divine Art inherently had thrice the magic power reserves of its contemporaries. Moreover, over the past year, Shu Han benefited from the nurturing of Shangguan Ruolin's Golden Core, expanding his meridians and substantially bolstering his magic power. At this juncture, his magic power was tantamount to one-and-a-half late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivators.

The cloud boat, suddenly infused with this torrent of magic, shot forward with a whoosh, closing in on the core area of the Earth God's divine light.

Feeling the cloud boat's aggressive momentum, Che Hanyan cried out in alarm, "Enough! Fellow daoist Yu, withdraw your power now!"

Pretending to mishear, Shu Han exclaimed, "What's that? More force? Very well, as you wish!"

Several medium-grade spirit stones rose around Shu Han. The boat's stern emanated vast waves of spiritual power. The Daoist Xiao and Che Hanyan hastily withdrew their powers, turning to witness not one but three Shu Hans, each intensifying their infusion of magic into the formation. Moreover, each Shu Han had five medium-grade spirit stones floating around them.

"What are you doing? Stop infusing more magic power!" Daoist Xiao yelled in horror.

Yet, in the next moment, all fifteen medium-grade spirit stones exploded in unison. The immense spiritual energy forced the two men back, channeling into three whirlpools that madly flowed into Shu Han, from whom it then poured into the formation.

Despite the duo's withdrawal, the cloud boat continued its accelerated pace forward.

Che Hanyan, observing the boat piercing straight into the core region, turned ashen, bellowing, "What on earth are you trying to do? Are you seeking death?"

"Yes, indeed. Let's all go together. It'll save us from the loneliness on the journey!"

Boom!

The cloud boat broke through the core's divine light, arriving in an area overwhelmingly radiant with gold.

At this moment, the Jade Rabbit, nestled within the jade pendant, fainted from sheer fright, its limbs sprawled in the air.

This rascal's playing dead again!

"You!"

Upon witnessing this, Daoist Xiao was so infuriated that steam might as well be rising from his seven orifices. Drawing forth his life-bound magical treasure, a radiant fairy sword shimmering in ten colors, he directed his ire at Shu Han, growling, "I've always felt something was off about you, you upstart! Die!"

However, at that very moment, a beam of sanguine light shone from the front of the boat.

All three were momentarily stunned, their gazes drawn to the source of the blood-red illumination.

The core region of the Earth Goddess' divine light spanned a space of merely about thirty meters. At the heart of this expanse lay a large slab of golden soil. From beneath this golden soil emerged a beam of white light, seemingly siphoning spiritual power perpetually to sustain the divine glow of the Earth Goddess.

Gazing in wonder, Che Hanyan murmured, "That's... the Celestial Soil of Earth Goddess..."

Suddenly, from within the celestial soil, a blood-red ginseng darted out. This ginseng was almost fully anthropomorphic, lazily reclining atop the celestial soil. In an instant, it transformed into an elderly man donned in a crimson robe, chuckling with a twinkle in his eye, "Ah, it appears there's no need for me to hunt when my prey willingly comes to my door. Admirable devotion indeed. As a token of my gratitude, I'll bestow upon you a pleasant dream before your end..."

With a casual wave of his hand, a red gleam flashed, rendering all present in a stupor.

Suddenly, Shu Han found himself in another world. A land of green mountains, clear waters, and fields that sprawled like a vast chessboard. Villagers, in pairs or small groups, ambled along the mountain paths, chattering and laughing.

"What is this..."

Breathing heavily, Shu Han, driven by a sense of déjà vu, sprinted forward. And sure enough, the familiar Shu Village loomed ahead.

At that moment, a young boy ran up, tugging at him, and said hurriedly, "Brother Big Head! What are you doing? Everyone's waiting anxiously! Why are you running about? Hurry, come with me!"

Shu Han, gazing at the lad in bewilderment, murmured, "Erdan? You..."

"What about me? You dare wander off on your most crucial day? Everyone's been waiting anxiously!"

Saying this, the young Erdan dragged Shu Han into Shu Village. The village was decked out in festive lights, with remnants of red firecrackers scattered everywhere.

Erdan led Shu Han to the village's ancestral hall. All the villagers had congregated there, and upon seeing Shu Han, their faces lit up with joy.

"Ah, the groom has arrived!"

"Big Head looks so dashing in that outfit!"

Shu Han, beholding his own bright red attire, was momentarily taken aback. Turning to Erdan, he inquired, "Whom am I marrying?"