216 RI

A moment later, Bai Ning Bing and the rest brought Huang Shi's corpse to Fang Yuan.

Spectral Soul's will gazed at the corpse and sighed: "This person was also an amazing character, a genius when he was young and became a famous expert as he grew. His name had spread throughout Central Continent and the five regions, now, he has perished in this place."

Fang Yuan and the rest were silent.

Spectral Soul's will controlled this stone lotus island and watched the past and present, it knew of many secrets. This was the power of Red Lotus' time path true inheritance, able to gain information through the River of Time.

When Spectral Soul Demon Venerable had obtained this inheritance back then, he had praised it as 'inconceivable' and acknowledged the superiority of Red Lotus Demon Venerable's time path methods.

At rank eight, all Gu Immortals would touch upon other paths, rank nine venerables were even more so with extremely comprehensive abilities.

Spectral Soul Demon Venerable's own time path methods could compare to rank eight time path Gu Immortals, but he was far inferior when compared to Red Lotus Demon Venerable.

Each rank nine had their respective specializations. They had their own areas of expertise with their specific strengths.

If Red Lotus Demon Venerable compared his soul path attainment with Spectral Soul Demon Venerable, it would be Red Lotus Demon Venerable's turn to be in great awe.

Gurgle gurgle...

The water of the River of Time gushed out from below Fang Yuan and the rest.

The stone lotus island was beginning to crumble.

But only one or two areas were collapsing, the hole created was the size of a teacup.

Spectral Soul's will stiffened before sighing: "After a while, this stone lotus island will be completely destroyed, we don't have much time left."

Red Lotus Demon Venerable had arranged all his seven true inheritances on stone lotus islands which were located at different areas of the River of Time.

After Spectral Soul Demon Venerable obtained this stone lotus island, he remodeled it to become the greatest information channel of Shadow Sect. Not only this, Shadow Sect were able to use the power of Red Lotus' true inheritance multiple times, and recently, they had used it to let Spring Autumn Cicada activate smoothly as well as to help Ying Wu Xie and Purple Mountain True Monarch.

The stone lotus island's foundation had already been close to drying up, and it had further exhausted all its power to kill the time path expert Huang Shi in the battle earlier. It was crumbling apart now.

"Where there are gains, there are losses." Fang Yuan sighed.

"Although we lost this stone lotus island, being able to cause the death of Lord Huang Shi is a huge gain. This person has outstanding battle strength, and is like a fish in water inside the River of Time. If we had let go of this perfect opportunity, even if we lay in ambush again, we probably wouldn't have another chance to kill him."

The group of immortals nodded in agreement to Fang Yuan's decision.

In fact, even Spectral Soul's will was not an exception.

It looked at Fang Yuan and nodded: "In the battle of the giant dream realm, Purple's choice at the last moment was correct. Fang Yuan, I have to admit you have already become the final chance my Shadow Sect has. The great task of saving our main body is yours now, naturally, this will depend on your decision. Even if you are bent on eliminating our main body, we won't blame you."

All of the Gu Immortals present were visibly moved at these words.

Ying Wu Xie's expression changed, he opened his mouth several times, but was not able to let out any words.

Who could have thought of this situation?

Right now, between Shadow Sect and Fang Yuan, Fang Yuan held the complete initiative. He was indeed the last hope of Shadow Sect, even if it was presumed they invaded Heavenly Court in the future, whether he saved Spectral Soul's main body or not was completely up to Fang Yuan.

The words of Spectral Soul's will had the feeling of helplessness and a last resort.

It was precisely because he knew the most information, he had a clear understanding of the situation.

When Fang Yuan entered Red Lotus' true inheritance, Spectral Soul's will created no obstructions or difficulties and even completely coordinated with Fang Yuan when killing Lord Huang Shi.

Fang Yuan glanced at the immortals before replying to Spectral Soul's will: "You can rest assured. Heavenly Court is an enormous force, you and I are natural allies. I will definitely help if I can."

Spectral Soul's will nodded: "I believe you."

Shortly, he smiled: "We are not allies, but a collective force. You are currently the leader of Shadow Sect, appointed by Purple, and have received the approval of the various split souls. Even if you meet our main body in the future, he will also definitely agree. Because we are him, our decision is his decision."

"Alright, I am going to pass on all my main body's soul path true inheritance along with other things to you."

Fang Yuan nodded and used a wisdom path method to send out a lump of self will.

The large sphere-like self will charged at Spectral Soul's will.

Spectral Soul's will did not evade, allowing the self will to merge with it.

Information exchange between wills was extremely fast, and after a few breaths of time, Fang Yuan's self will returned and entered Fang Yuan's mind.

Instantly, an unimaginable amount of information assaulted Fang Yuan's mind!

Fang Yuan closed his eyes, accepting all the information in an orderly way. He was a wisdom path grandmaster who could not be compared to ordinary Gu Immortals. right now, his expression was calm.

Among all the information, the most valuable was no doubt Spectral Soul's true inheritance.

This was the most comprehensive cultivation content created by Spectral Soul Demon Venerable.

Fang Yuan's mind shook with just a slight look at some of its contents, inwardly praising Spectral Soul Demon Venerable, who created this true inheritance.

Undoubtedly, in the whole world and the long history of humans, no, since time immemorial, this was one of the most valuable true inheritances!

Since ancient times until now, only ten venerables had appeared in this world. Spectral Soul Demon Venerable was one of them.

This true inheritance of Spectral Soul that Fang Yuan obtained was comprehensive, as long as he cultivated according to it, he could approach the heights that Spectral Soul Demon Venerable had once reached.

Speaking of which, Fang Yuan had connections to quite a few venerables.

Spring Autumn Cicada was the earliest to end up in Fang Yuan's hands, it was the most crucial key to Red Lotus' true inheritances, but until now, Fang Yuan had only inherited one of the seven true inheritances of Red Lotus. Moreover, although the inner contents were complete, Red Lotus' true meaning had already been absorbed by Spectral Soul Demon Venerable.

Giant Sun Immortal Venerable had three true inheritances – Fang Yuan had obtained the essence of 'self luck true inheritance' from Lang Ya Sect, and some contents of 'all living beings luck' from Eighty-Eight True Yang Building and Ma Hong Yun, but it was not as much as the rumor said.

Of Thieving Heaven's true inheritances, Fang Yuan had only inherited ghostly concealment, while divine concealment was taken by Zhao Lian Yun.

"To think that the most complete venerable true inheritance that I obtained was Spectral Soul's true inheritance originating from my former great enemy."

"Unfortunately, my soul path attainment is not enough, and cultivating soul path would require a huge amount of time, energy and resources."

"Among these, soul path has the most terrifying requirement for resources. Spectral Soul Demon Venerable had once massacred countless living beings for his cultivation. If I were to repeat his way, I would also need to slaughter countless living beings, otherwise I simply would not be able to satisfy the resource requirements for my soul path cultivation."

Second to Spectral Soul's true inheritance was Red Lotus' true inheritance.

Although the true meaning of Red Lotus in this stone lotus island was already absorbed by Spectral Soul to raise his time path attainment, its true inheritance contents were handed down.

The most important contents of this inheritance were the Immortal Gu recipes of Spring Autumn Cicada.

Not just rank six Immortal Gu recipes, there were recipes of rank seven, rank eight and even rank nine!

This meant Fang Yuan now had the entire set of Immortal Gu recipes for Spring Autumn Cicada from rank six to rank nine!

There was a huge amount of content in this set of Immortal Gu recipes, amounting to several hundreds of thousands of words. Merely the rank six Spring Autumn Cicada Immortal Gu recipes totaled to seventeen or eighteen. The recipe Fang Yuan had obtained in his first life of five hundred years was only one of them.

Rank seven Immortal Gu recipes were even more numerous, reaching eighty-six. Rank eight Immortal Gu recipes totaled to forty-three.

And there were three rank nine Immortal Gu recipes.

An additional Immortal Gu recipe meant a new method to refine Spring Autumn Cicada.

As far as Fang Yuan was concerned, this would definitely be a huge help. Later on, when he refines Spring Autumn Cicada, he would not only have many more choices, but could also be more flexible in his methods.

"To think Red Lotus Demon Venerable had researched so deeply about Spring Autumn Cicada."

"So it is true that Spring Autumn Cicada was Red Lotus Demon Venerable's vital Immortal Gu!"

Fang Yuan naturally wanted to advance Spring Autumn Cicada, he was deeply aware of Spring Autumn Cicada's power, and would absolutely not let go of this trump card that could overturn the situation!

Besides Spectral Soul's true inheritance and Red Lotus' true inheritance, there were also large numbers of other true inheritances.

Some of these inheritances were incomplete, while some were perfectly intact.

This was the collection of Spectral Soul Demon Venerable when he was alive, and the continual gathering by Shadow Sect throughout a hundred thousand years. Now, all of these belonged to Fang Yuan!

Although Purple Mountain True Monarch's legacy was also abundant, he was only one of the split souls in the end. The content he grasped was not even one-hundredth of the total amount here.

Especially because there was also the rule path true inheritance of Limitless Demon Venerable, and a formation path true inheritance of Paradise Earth Immortal Venerable, which were not in Purple Mountain True Monarch's inheritance.

The value of all these contents was so high that it could not be estimated!

As long as Fang Yuan had sufficient time and resources, Fang Yuan was confident he could use these contents to create an organization that was not weaker than Heavenly Court.

Fang Yuan's gains had reached an unimaginable amount such that even he himself was shaken. The frightening advantage of being the leader of Shadow Sect had finally been shown.

Spectral Soul's will spoke once again: "Sect leader Fang Yuan, you have now completely inherited Shadow Sect. Unfortunately, although there are a lot of true inheritances, you would need an unimaginable amount of time, energy and resources to cultivate them. And right now, what we lack the most is time, and there is also a huge scarcity of resources!"

"Our main body had once successfully defied heaven, hiding from Heavenly Court, and delaying the great era by nearly five hundred years! But now, our main body has failed, everything has returned to its original path. Approximately ten years later, the great era will completely descend, the five regions will merge, which will definitely result in the largest chaotic war in history."

"And among the five regions, Central Continent's foundation is the deepest with the most amount of Gu Masters and Gu Immortals. Furthermore, they also have a unified leader — Heavenly Court! This is something none of the other four regions have. Whether it be Eastern Sea, Western Desert, Southern Border or Northern Plains, they are all controlled by independent super forces and are disunited. Northern Plains does have Longevity Heaven, so their situation will be slightly better, but when compared to Central Continent's Heavenly Court, their influence in the whole region is significantly lacking."

"And the most terrifying thing about Heavenly Court is their control of rank nine fate Immortal Gu. This Gu has extremely terrifying might, the reason why Star Constellation Immortal Venerable was able to make arrangements that could resist three Demon Venerables after her death was mostly because of the power of this Gu!"

"The three great Demon Venerables are all within the confines of fate, this was already decided upon their birth and cannot be changed. Only an otherworldly demon is not restrained by the shackles of fate Immortal Gu. Fang Yuan, you are a complete otherworldly demon, and thus the greatest hope in destroying fate Immortal Gu. In fact, you are the inheritor that Red Lotus Demon Venerable had been most anticipating!"

"Ten years, you only have ten years. Fang Yuan, don't let Heavenly Court restore fate Immortal Gu! Otherwise, Heavenly Court will become invincible, even if the four regions attack it together, they will not be able to bring it down. If that happens, there will be no hope of invading Heavenly Court and rescuing our main body."

"You don't have much time, Fang Yuan."

-x-X-x-

Stone lotus island.

The voice of Spectral Soul's will started to become choppy as his whole body turned increasingly translucent.

Fang Yuan wanted to help and replenish it, but was stopped.

"Let me disappear, I am Spectral Soul's will, my main body is being suppressed by Heavenly Court, I will be found out by Heavenly Court sooner or later."

"As for the split souls... there is no need to worry about them within a short period of time."

"The stone lotus island is no more, my mission has also been finished."

"Now, while I still have some strength left, let me speed up time for you and make one last contribution."

Fang Yuan was silent, before slowly nodding: "Alright."

After he agreed, he took out the self cleansing immortal Gu formation.

Shortly afterwards, Bai Ning Bing and the rest entered the immortal formation, the immortal Gu formation started operating while letting out deafening rumbling noises.

Spectral Soul's will smiled as the stone lotus island let out its final frail afterglow.

"Lord Huang Shi is dead!"

When this news was transmitted, Feng Jiu Ge and the two rank eight Gu Immortals from Heavenly Court felt an intense shock.

Shortly afterwards, more detailed information was transmitted to them by Fairy Zi Wei.

"Fang Yuan lost the upper extreme heavenly eagle, but has actually gotten control of an immemorial year monkey?!"

"That Red Lotus true inheritance is truly beyond belief, it can actually control a segment of the River of Time!"

"If it were not for the stone lotus island, even if Fang Yuan had strength that rivaled rank eight along with the protection of the immemorial year monkey, he would not be able to take Lord Huang Shi's life. Sigh..."

Right now, the three immortals had already gotten past the defense line of dream realms and arrived in front of the tributary of the River of Time.

The dream realms which Fang Yuan had meticulously arranged, because of their own circulation, showed a gap, letting the three immortals easily pass by it without wasting any energy.

Dream realms could obstruct enemies for some time, but they could not be relied on for a long time.

Especially when these dream realms were already infiltrated by heaven's will. Their circulation would clearly favor Heavenly Court.

This was also the reason why Fang Yuan did not use the dream realm defense line to make a last-ditch struggle when escaping earlier.

The three immortals' expressions turned unsightly upon hearing the news of Lord Huang Shi's death.

According to their original plan, Lord Huang Shi would make a move inside the River of Time, destroying Red Lotus' true inheritance, and forcing out Fang Yuan and the rest, then with the three immortals outside, they would encircle and eliminate Fang Yuan and the remaining Shadow Sect members.

But now, their strongest member, Lord Huang Shi, was instead the first to fall, this caused the situation of Feng Jiu Ge and the others to become rather awkward.

Should they wait or not?

If they continue waiting, would Fang Yuan and the rest eventually be forced to appear in front of them?

The three immortals hesitated, they had come well-prepared, but who could have expected their morale to receive a strike before they even fought.

"Continue waiting." Fairy Zi Wei sent them new instructions.

"I have already deduced that in the information Fang Yuan has, only this tributary of the River of Time is remaining."

"Lord Huang Shi was sacrificed, but his sacrifice has provided us a lot of valuable information regarding the ins and outs of Fang Yuan and the other Shadow Sect members. Especially regarding Red Lotus' true inheritance, our Heavenly Court is now no longer completely in the dark about it!"

"Fang Yuan and the others cannot continue to hide in Red Lotus' true inheritance. They must come out eventually."

Fairy Zi Wei's tone was resolute, causing the fighting spirit of Feng Jiu Ge and the two immortals to soar.

Fairy Zi Wei was one of the few wisdom path great experts in the current five regions, her deduction absolutely would not err.

"Then we shall continue to wait!"

"Damned otherworldly demon, a calamity to all living beings, I will definitely take your life this time; I will tear off your skin, pull out your tendons, and grind your bones till they turn to dust!!"

The two Heavenly Court Gu Immortals were furious, while Feng Jiu Ge's expression was calm as he gazed at the turbulent tributary of the River of Time in silence.

However, a day passed, two days passed, soon, five, six days passed.

But the tributary of the River of Time showed no commotion.

Ten days went by, half a month passed, but the waiting immortals did not even see a trace of Fang Yuan!

However, they were not shaken.

They were either current or future Heavenly Court Gu Immortals, how could such people lack patience?

Especially Feng Jiu Ge, who had battled Fang Yuan a few times and knew of his terrifying growth rate, he had already marked Fang Yuan as a great threat to the world. He had already made up his mind to eliminate Fang Yuan as early as possible, or else he would not be at ease.

"Where is Fang Yuan?"

"Are they still on the stone lotus island?"

"Why do I feel a sense of unease?"

In Heavenly Court, Fairy Zi Wei, however, was starting to feel puzzled.

Not long after Lord Huang Shi's sacrifice, she had completely lost the information of Fang Yuan and the rest. The Shadow Sect members had used the self cleansing immortal Gu formation along with the power of Red Lotus' true inheritance to speed up time, they had completely gotten rid of the investigative killer move on them.

Although there was no evidence to prove Fang Yuan and the others had escaped from the River of Time, Fairy Zi Wei vaguely sensed something wrong.

This attracted Fairy Zi Wei's attention.

Wisdom path Gu Immortals were not just about intellect, wisdom path cultivation emphasized on three main points – thoughts, wills and emotions.

Among them, emotions and feelings were also specialty methods of wisdom path Gu Immortals.

Thus, the unease in Fairy Zi Wei's heart had not just appeared out of nowhere, it was a premonition.

"In the worst case scenario, Fang Yuan has already escaped the River of Time?'

"But Feng Jiu Ge and the group had already blocked the entrance, so how did he succeed in escaping?"

"Did he gain some extremely powerful concealment method from Red Lotus' true inheritance? Or... did he use another tributary of the River of Time?"

Fairy Zi Wei suddenly had a flash of inspiration. The two tributaries of the River of Time that Fang Yuan had access to were already exposed.

This information was definite because its source was Spectral Soul's main body!

Spectral Soul's main body had been suppressed by Duke Long, Heavenly Court naturally would not let him go and had conducted soul searching on him. However, Spectral Soul was a peak expert of soul path, even if there was only a tiny fraction of his soul remaining, how could he be easily soul searched by ordinary methods?

Heavenly Court had exhausted all their means to extract information, but Spectral Soul's main body was still struggling stubbornly, and as such, they had not obtained much information.

"If Fang Yuan did not use this tributary of the River of Time, then which exit did he choose?'"

Tributaries of the River of Time were exits, Feng Jiu Ge and the group were blocking the final exit. Even if Fang Yuan did not investigate it, he would have already expected this situation and might have taken the risk to charge through another tributary of the River of Time. Because rather than fighting with the sufficiently prepared Heavenly Court forces, it might be better to break through other, unaware forces.

'"And in Western Desert, there are altogether three forces who have control over a tributary of the River of Time."

"First is Tian clan. This clan mainly cultivates wood path and earth path, and are mainly renowned for their immortal aperture management, and even have good reputation in the other four regions. In the current Western Desert Gu Immortal world, it is one of the super forces with the most solid foundations."

"Second is Gong clan. Gong clan Gu Immortals are proficient in long range fighting methods, especially their curse related killer moves, which are imperceptible and can silently take their enemy's life even when they are separated by an enormous range. Their most famous immortal killer move, bow shadow cup, had terrorized the whole of Western Desert's Gu Immortal world. They only need a trace of the target's shadow, after which, they can activate the killer move and can kill their target no matter how far apart the distance."

"Third is Tang clan. Tang clan is a declining clan, its strength is mid-lower tier among Western Desert's super forces. But they still have an Immortal Gu House and has control over a tributary of the River of Time, which is right by their headquarters. With their powerful defensive strength, other forces cannot easily seize it."

"If Fang Yuan were to forcibly charge through, which clan would he choose?"

"If I consider this, along with no movement from the three clans, Fang Yuan might still be in River of Time."

Fairy Zi Wei was in deep contemplation.

She was deeply aware of the situation of Western Desert's Gu Immortal world. The power of Heavenly Court's information gathering was clear from this.

Tang clan.

The remnant afterglow of an immortal killer move successively condensed on Fang Yuan and the rest.

"This move will provide us three months of time. Not only can it defend against the deductions of Gu Immortals, it can also avert the attention of heaven's will." Fang Yuan slowly opened his eyes, which shined briefly with joy.

Other than Fang Yuan, there was also Bai Ning Bing, Hei Lou Lan, Ying Wu Xie, Black Tigress and Fairy Miao Yin, no one was missing.

Fairy Zi Wei's conjecture was only half-correct.

Fang Yuan indeed had no plans to engage in a desperate battle with Heavenly Court's forces, and had given up on that tributary of the River of Time. But Fang Yuan's group had already left the River of Time ten days ago, returning to Western Desert.

"Let's go. It is time to leave Western Desert." Fang Yuan moved forward while the other immortals followed closely behind.

They were deep below the ground, the group kept on moving until they reached the surface.

Two Western Desert Gu Immortals were already waiting for them at the entrance.

"Tang Fang Ming (Tang Lan Ke) pays respects to Shadow Sect leader." The two Gu Immortals looked young, and after seeing Fang Yuan, they elegantly bowed.

Fang Yuan laughed: "I have troubled you two, these are the Immortal Gu I borrowed from your esteemed clan."

Fang Yuan waved his hand; several Immortal Gu slowly flew into Tang Fang Ming's hand.

Tang Fang Ming carefully examined and after determining there was no damage to the Immortal Gu, he cautiously stored them into his immortal aperture.

He said with some embarrassment: "Please forgive my actions, I borrowed these Gu from the clan personally, this is a huge responsibility, I have no choice but to be more careful."

Fang Yuan smiled, Tang Fang Ming's words had deep meaning. After all, Tang clan was a righteous path force but was cooperating with the demonic path's Shadow Sect, if this was exposed, they would be denounced and there would be immense trouble.

But factions did not represent anything, benefits were the only things that everyone chased after.

Tang clan was weak, the external pressure on them was enormous. Such an environment made almost all the Tang clan Gu Immortals possess the spirit of going all out, taking risks, bearing hardships, and enduring patiently.

Tang clan's grand strategy was to develop dream path.

In Fang Yuan's first life of five hundred years, Tang clan had moved to the top by exploiting dream realms. During the five regions chaotic war, they had made countless achievements, their strength rose explosively, and became the number one righteous path force of Western Desert in one leap!

Fang Yuan had thus contacted Tang clan, to use Shadow Sect's research results in dream path in exchange for Tang clan opening up their tributary of the River of Time, so that there was a final retreat path for him. Moreover, he was willing to cooperate with Tang clan in the future, to jointly research the dream realm, and also obtained their financial help to produce guts Gu.

Such enormous benefits moved all the Tang clansmen!

The support of guts Gu, Fang Yuan's unravel dream and Ying Wu Xie's lead soul into dream, they were all greatly desired by Tang clan's Gu Immortals.

Naturally, the latter two would absolutely not be easy for Tang clan to obtain.

-x-X-x-

Western Desert.

Blazing sunlight shone down upon all lifeforms.

The blue sky was cloudless, distorting hot-air was rising up from the golden desert.

"Farewell." Fang Yuan's group bid farewell to the two Tang clan Gu Immortals.

"Shadow Sect friends, please take care." Tang Lan Ke smiled.

She was a rank seven time path Gu Immortal, and was in charge of the tributary of the River of Time. She was the main person who helped Fang Yuan come out of Tang clan's tributary of the River of Time.

Fang Yuan smiled: "You have already accompanied us for ten thousand li, there is no need to send us off anymore."

Tang Lan Ke's smile became even brighter, but she was inwardly laughing bitterly. Their cooperation with Fang Yuan was not just about the guts Gu trade, but also Shadow Sect's various research gains in dream path.

But ever since Fang Yuan returned to Western Desert, he did not mention anything about this. He seemed to have completely forgotten about it.

Although both sides had formed an alliance agreement and were restrained by it, they had yet to truly cooperate, even Tang clan was starting to feel somewhat anxious.

Tang Fang Ming, who had been silent the entire time, suddenly spoke, inquiring directly: "Shadow Sect leader and friends, I wonder how will we collaborate from now?"

Fang Yuan glanced at Tang Fang Ming, an admiring expression flashing past his eyes: "I am very interested in Thieving Heaven's dream realm, we can deepen our collaboration in this. But right now, we are being chased by several rank eight Gu Immortals of Heavenly Court, it is not a good time to collaborate, we can only look forward to it in the future. Rest assured, we have formed an alliance agreement, haven't we? Of course, if your clan truly insists, we can remain here. It is just that our camps are different and with Heavenly Court's chase, there is huge pressure on us."

Tang Fang Ming and Tang Lan Ke looked at each other, both seeing bitterness in each other's eyes.

Fang Yuan's words meant that if they want to collaborate and obtain dream path research gains, then they have to help resist the pursuing forces of Heavenly Court. Moreover, when the matter of Tang clan colluding with the demonic path is exposed, they will have to bear the consequences of their righteous path reputation going down the drain!

Tang clan could not bear this consequence.

They could not take a hard approach as well.

Because Fang Yuan was sufficiently strong, such that he had no fear of Tang clan, who possessed Immortal Gu House.

"Then I can only wish you a safe journey." Tang Fang Ming bowed slightly.

"Okay, farewell." Fang Yuan nodded, leaving with an indifferent expression, while the other immortals followed behind him.

Tang Fang Ming and Tang Lan Ke stood on the sand dune, watching Fang Yuan and the rest leave until they turned into black dots in the horizon.

"Little Ming, you are letting them go like this?" Tang Lan Ke frowned.

Tang Fang Ming glanced at Tang Lan Ke calmly: "I am not letting them go, it is that our Tang clan cannot force them to stay."

Tang Lan Ke was silent for a long while before sighing: "Sigh, I am uneasy about this, I don't know if this alliance is beneficial or harmful to our clan."

Tang Fang Ming: "I only know that all things have advantages and disadvantages. Often, the greater the risks, the greater the profits. What's more, the decision of collaborating with Shadow Sect was agreed upon by several supreme elders."

Tang Lan Ke immediately showed a serious expression: "This has no relation to the clan, only you and I contacted Shadow Sect! If there is a mishap, only we will bear the responsibility!"

Tang Fang Ming chuckled, but was inwardly rolling his eyes.

Tang clan threw him and Tang Lan Ke out as scapegoats to maintain their righteous path identity. They would be the cover to hide the clan's disgrace if this matter was exposed in the future.

This was a righteous path's trick, and Tang Fang Ming was well aware of it.

"What kind of person is Fang Yuan? He had long seen through Tang clan's trick! The tributary of the River of Time is near the clan's headquarters, and they stayed for ten days, but even the first supreme elder did not show up. How could there be sincerity in such a collaboration? Since we are cooperating, we should make up our minds, how can we achieve anything by being so hesitant?"

Tang Fang Ming was thinking to himself, when Tang Lan Ke asked: "What do you think of Fang Yuan? He said he was being chased by several rank eight Gu Immortals of Heavenly Court, could he be exaggerating?"

Tang Fang Ming knew Tang Lan Ke's question had deep meaning, his best choice would be to keep silent.

If he said bad things about Fang Yuan, Tang Lan Ke would report to the clan that Tang Fang Ming was filled with ill feelings towards Shadow Sect and made them unhappy, she could use this to push the responsibility of this matter to him.

If he said good words about Fang Yuan, Tang Lan Ke would collect this evidence. In case the matter were to be exposed in the future, Tang clan would sacrifice them to protect itself; Tang Lan Ke could then present the evidence to say that she had been enticed by a certain Gu Immortal of the clan, and lighten her punishment.

Tang Fang Ming was not a fool, he might not have been used to it when he had just returned to the clan.

But now, he was an expert in the righteous path's tricks.

However, at this moment, as Tang Fang Ming gazed at Fang Yuan's figure disappearing gradually in the horizons, he had a complex feeling.

He sighed and bluntly said his innermost thoughts: "Although I haven't seen his splendor in battle, through these several days of contact, I am certain his reputation is not false. Fang Yuan is a legend of this generation, his elegant demeanor and grand ambition fill people with admiration. He... is a man who is going against heaven. Just based on this, we will not be able to compare to him."

A trace of joy flashed past Tang Lan Ke's eyes, she kept silent upon hearing Tang Fang Ming's words.

Fang Yuan was also thinking about Tang Fang Ming as he flew on his way.

In his five hundred years of memories, this Tang Fang Ming was a legendary figure of Western Desert!

His status was almost equal to Northern Plains' Ma Hong Yun of that time.

Tang Fang Ming had been stripped of his status and mercilessly abandoned by Tang clan's Gu Master higher-ups when he was young.

He and his sister, Tang Miao, led a vagrant life, suffering much hardship. But due to a fortuitous encounter, he cultivated to Gu Immortal level, while his sister Tang Miao became a rank five peak stage Gu Master.

To recruit a Gu Immortal, Tang clan's multiple supreme elders sacrificed the Gu Master higher-ups of the clan in exchange for the return of Tang Fang Ming.

The later events proved that Tang clan's supreme elders made a wise decision.

After Tang Fang Ming returned to the clan, not only did he help his sister to become a Gu Immortal, he also actively explored Thieving Heaven's dream realm.

He had an extraordinary talent and aptitude in dream realm exploration.

He started to create dream path Gu worms, making huge contributions to the rise of the whole of Tang clan.

During the five regions chaotic war, dream realms manifested everywhere, dream path flourished, and Tang clan seized this opportunity to rise to become Western Desert's strongest super force.

It was mighty and powerful, even throughout the five regions, it was a peak level super force. As Tang clan's prestige spread in Western Desert, there were many who started to call Western Desert's Gu Immortal world to be in — Tang clan's era!

And in Tang clan, the most eye-catching and charismatic legend was the Gu Immortal who turned to cultivating dream path, Tang Fang Ming!

"Currently, Ma Hong Yun has already died in my hands, but with the coming collaboration, Tang Fang Ming will grow up even faster. The comparison and contrast between the two is truly quite amazing."

"But according to the true path set by fate, Ma Hong Yun was meant to die."

A dark light flashed past Fang Yuan's eyes as he thought of this.

On the stone lotus island, what Fang Yuan obtained was not only true inheritances and Spectral Soul's rank nine immortal essence, but also some valuable information Spectral Soul's will had deduced with the help of Red Lotus' true inheritance.

In Fang Yuan's first life, Shadow Sect had succeeded in defying heaven, Spectral Soul Demon Venerable had resurrected, and also succeeded in infiltrating Heavenly Court.

Later, the great era descended and the five regions chaotic war started.

Shadow Sect's influence had expanded into the five regions and two heavens, manipulating everything in the dark.

Shadow Sect had interfered multiple times to save Ma Hong Yun, before he finally became a symbolic character of the Northern Plains Gu Immortal world, in order to resist Heavenly Court.

And Tang clan was also a target for Shadow Sect to support secretly!

That's right.

In Fang Yuan's first life too, Tang clan had collaborated with Shadow Sect. The reason Tang clan could create 'Tang clan's era' was because Shadow Sect was supporting it from behind the scenes to fight against Central Continent's Heavenly Court.

Fang Yuan chose to collaborate with Tang clan mainly because of this.

In Western Desert, Tang clan was not the only one who possessed a tributary of the River of Time. But compared to the other two super forces, Tang clan had more basis for sincere collaboration.

The later events proved Fang Yuan's choice was a success.

Borrowing Tang clan's tributary of the River of Time, Fang Yuan escaped River of Time, leaving Feng Jiu Ge's group back at the original spot as they waited fruitlessly.

"But..."

"In my first life, even though Shadow Sect's grand plan succeeded and Spectral Soul revived, he seemed to have been unable to regain the status of a venerable. Moreover, Shadow Sect had retained its strength but Spectral Soul still chose to fight Heavenly Court in the dark, while supporting other forces. This proved Heavenly Court's strength was difficult for even Spectral Soul to confront head-on at that time!"

"In this life, Spectral Soul's grand plan failed because of me, Spectral Soul's main body was even captured, Shadow Sect is in rough condition, and the only ones remaining are us. This situation is many times worse than in my first life."

"Now, I also might have to follow Spectral Soul's strategy, keeping in hiding while supporting several forces like Tang clan to create trouble for Heavenly Court."

"But what do I do against fate Gu?"

Fang Yuan's brows unavoidably furrowed at this issue.

In his first life, fate Gu was not restored successfully. Because Zombie Alliance still existed, and Spectral Soul, the one fated to die long ago, had revived. Not only did he revive, he hid from Heavenly Court, manipulating and brewing countless schemes in secret, obstructing Heavenly Court in restoring fate Gu.

But it was different now.

The situation facing Fang Yuan was much worse!

Spectral Soul's main body was captured and Zombie Alliance was gone, many fate defying existences were already eliminated, which made the restoration of fate Gu much easier.

Fate Immortal Gu was the executioner's blade hanging above Fang Yuan's head.

Spectral Soul's will had deeply reminded Fang Yuan to be careful of fate Immortal Gu, if it was really restored completely, the result would be disastrous.

Fang Yuan firmly engraved this warning in his mind, but he could not imagine or think of ways to go about destroying fate Immortal Gu.

Could he surrender if he could not win?

As far as Shadow Sect was concerned, they did not have this option at all.

And it was even more so for Fang Yuan.

"In my first life, I was constantly on the go, wandering, enduring hardships, being schemed against, tormented and suppressed by heaven's will, I already have no route to retreat."

"Heaven's will chose me as its tool, but when I did not destroy sovereign immortal fetus Gu and used it on myself, I went on the path to go against heaven, there is no other option left."

Thinking of this, Fang Yuan looked at the sky.

The boundless heavens and the vast will of heaven!

Compared to them, he was so insignificant.

Going against heaven?

"Interesting." Fang Yuan smiled silently.

-x-X-x-

Central Continent, Heavenly Court.

Halls made of white jade stood majestically in the clouds, while the majestic silver sky shone brightly and grandly.

Among these halls was a pitch black hall that was very conspicuous.

Three large words were carved on the plaque of the door — Soul Suppression Hall!

The aura emanating from this hall exposed its extraordinariness, undoubtedly, this was a rank eight Immortal Gu House!

At the center of this hall were five enormous pillars.

Purple-gold chains were connected around the scarlet pillars to form a giant web.

And a remnant soul was shackled at the center of this giant web.

It was Spectral Soul's main body!

Fairy Zi Wei stood expressionlessly at the edge of the five pillars: "Spectral Soul Demon Venerable, you were a rank nine Gu Venerable when alive, you did not accept your death and acted in defiance against heaven. Your current outcome is entirely the negative consequence of your own actions. Do you admit your wrongdoing?"

Her voice was crystal clear as it resonated in the large hall.

On the contrary, the remnant soul remained silent, not even letting out a grunt.

Fairy Zi Wei continued: "In the past, you had rampaged around the whole world, slaughtering countless beings to satisfy your desires and attain your personal achievements. Now, you have become a prisoner, are you still not going to repent and strive for the well-being of all lifeforms to atone for your crimes?"

The remnant soul was still silent.

Fairy Zi Wei sighed, activating Soul Suppression Hall.

Immediately, the vast auras of Gu worms surged like rolling tides, and like lava, the five giant pillars started radiating light and heat.

The giant web formed by countless purple-gold chains subsequently shone with a dazzling and bewitching light.

Spectral Soul's main body began to tremble, and as time passed, his trembling grew more intense.

When the trembling reached a certain degree, bits of information was extracted, which followed the countless purple-gold chains into Soul Suppression Hall.

Images started to emerge on the surface of the giant pillars, playing out some scenes of Spectral Soul's life back in the day.

There were scenes of his cultivation, his valor in battles, conversations with others, and so on.

The whole soul search lasted for fifteen minutes before it slowly stopped.

Fairy Zi Wei, however, was not pleased. The extracted information was only superficial, and there was almost no truly valuable information.

Her gaze turned grim as she sneered: "Oh Spectral Soul, since ancient times it has always been winners who take all, what is the point of doing this? You already have no hope, are you still hoping someone will attack Heavenly Court and save you? Hehe. What can you achieve by putting up this resistance? Your outcome is set and it cannot be changed."

Spectral Soul was still silent, like a piece of steel or rock.

Fairy Zi Wei snorted, turning around and leaving.

Boom!

The large door of Soul Suppression Hall closed heavily behind her.

Looking at the empty Heavenly Court and the silent halls, Fairy Zi Wei's brows furrowed slightly.

Over these days, the uneasy feeling in her had become increasingly intense.

And over on Feng Jiu Ge's end, they still had not found any traces of Fang Yuan's group.

Not only this, in the information that Heavenly Court gathered regarding Western Desert, there was no news of anyone coming out of a tributary of the River of Time.

Everything was peaceful.

However, Fairy Zi Wei sensed something wrong from this peace.

"Unfortunately, Spectral Soul is still putting up a resistance even after falling to this state! The information extracted from him is of no help in deducing Fang Yuan's tracks."

"He was after all a rank nine venerable, a peak legendary expert of soul path. Even if this is just a trace of his soul, it is actually able to resist the search of Soul Suppression Hall. Truly amazing! If it were my remnant soul, not to speak of an Immortal Gu House, it won't be able to resist even a rank six Immortal Gu."

"Forget it. Even if Spectral Soul won't cooperate, Soul Suppression Hall can still continue to soul search, it is just that the progress is rather slow. But given some time, there will be a day when all the information will be extracted from Spectral Soul."

"As for now..."

Fairy Zi Wei gazed at the sky, her lips curling upwards as she revealed an extremely beautiful smile.

"It is time for the world to know of Heavenly Court's might."

Heavenly Court, which had been keeping silent for several months after the battle of dream realm, suddenly revealed astonishingly terrifying news!

The former Spectral Soul Demon, Venerable left with merely a remnant soul, was captured by Heavenly Court, his heaven-defying scheme was ruined by Heavenly Court's Gu Immortals.

The moment this news spread, the whole Gu Immortal world went into an uproar.

Countless Gu Immortals were shaken.

Rank nine venerables were invincible existences who ruled an era.

No one could have imagined Heavenly Court to be able to capture a rank nine venerable. Moreover, it was Spectral Soul Demon Venerable, who had the most murderous nature among all the venerables!

Despite it being only a remnant soul, it was still enough to shake the world.

Naturally, there were voices who questioned the authenticity of this news, but they soon vanished.

Heavenly Court had naturally made sufficient preparation, listing out all kinds of evidence, spanning from Zombie Alliance, Shadow Sect as well as the Battle of Yi Tian Mountain, the battle of the super dream realm, and so on.

The ironclad evidence completely convinced the people.

In an instant, the whole world's attention was gathered on Heavenly Court.

The past glory of Heavenly Court was dug up by countless Gu Immortals.

It was the number one force in the Gu Immortal world, the strongest force since the start!

It was founded by Primordial Origin Immortal Venerable, and was inherited by multiple Immortal Venerables later on, standing tall throughout countless generations.

Even when three Demon Venerables invaded it, they had to leave without success.

It was mysterious, it was powerful, it stood high above, it was unfathomable!

This was Heavenly Court!!

...

Northern Plains, Longevity Heaven.

South Desolation Immortal was lying on a sickbed, his aged face showing his final remaining bit of vitality.

"Sigh, who could have thought that the grand Spectral Soul Demon Venerable's reputation to be lost after death, actually ending up in Heavenly Court's hands." South Desolation Immortal heaved a deep sigh.

Yao Huang, who was standing beside the sickbed, comforted: "Lord South Desolation, you should focus on recuperating and resting."

South Desolation Immortal chuckled: "It doesn't matter, I only have a few days remaining. Remember the things I instructed you, you will take the position of South Desolation after my death."

"Yes, lord."

South Desolation Immortal showed some worry: "Times are changing, the five regions are descending into an unprecedented state. I have already sensed the surging waves of time, and it is not an ordinary wave, it is a tsunami that far surpasses even the venerables' eras. Even my Longevity Heaven will be swallowed by this tsunami if we take a wrong step. Heavenly Court is our biggest enemy, be careful."

"Lord, this junior has firmly engraved your words in mind."

...

Southern Border, Corpse Emperor Yu Ding Tian.

This was an extremely peculiar mountain peak. In ancient times, a rank eight Southern Border Gu Immortal turned into an immortal zombie, and fought against allied attacks of super forces in this peak, finally dying here. As time passed, on the mangled corpse of this rank eight immortal zombie, due to the nourishment of the natural essence from the river, along with the aquatic plants in the river that rooted themselves, this place turned into a corpse mountain.

Corpse Emperor Yu Ding Tian was as high as several hundreds of meters, it was close to the whirlpool in the intersection of red dragon river and yellow dragon river where natural essence was extremely dense, and as such its resource productivity was huge and it by itself was a place of strategical importance.

Right now, Wu Yong was standing at the peak of Corpse Emperor Yu Ding Tian, gazing at the vast whirlpool in the intersection of red dragon river and yellow dragon river.

Behind him was a Wu clan Gu Immortal, Wu Zhen.

Wu Zhen gazed at Wu Yong's back, not in the least concealing the admiration in his heart.

This Corpse Emperor Yu Ding Tian originally belonged to Wu clan, but not long ago, it was seized by Yao clan. After the battle of dream realm, Wu Yong had brought out Clear Jade Dripping Wind Tiny Bamboo Building and displayed his powerful strength, aweing the experts of Southern Border's righteous path. Moreover, after he had successfully negotiated and got back the lost Immortal Gu from Heavenly Court, he had returned them to their respective righteous path clans.

As a result, Wu Yong's prestige had risen greatly, and although Wu clan had suffered severe losses, this swept away their declining state and stabilized their throne at number one in Southern Border.

A stick in one hand and a carrot in the other, Wu Yong benefited in every way, he successfully retrieved the lost territories, making many righteous forces retreat without much fight.

Now, in Wu clan, many were comparing Wu Yong to Wu Du Xiu. Wu clan's morale soared, and they believed Wu Yong would definitely sustain Wu clan's glory!

"Wu Zhen, this Corpse Emperor Yu Ding Tian is a strategic place. Among all the clansmen, I can only be at ease handing this to you." Wu Yong said without looking back.

"Yes, I will not disappoint first supreme elder." Wu Zhen's tone was slightly trembling.

"Lord..." He paused before continuing, "Corpse Emperor Yu Ding Tian is our final lost territory, do we counterattack now?"

Wu Yong frowned.

He had all along been scheming about counterattacking.

But after the news of Heavenly Court capturing Spectral Soul, Wu Yong decided to give up this plan.

"This time, Wu clan lost many Gu Immortals. Since we have already recovered all the lost territories, our manpower, which was already barely able to control our vast territories before, has an even bigger issue now. It is time to recuperate and cultivate the next generation of clansmen to become Gu Immortals."

"Yes, I shall follow first supreme elder's decision." Wu Zhen said respectfully.

The current Wu Yong's prestige was extremely high, his decision was supported by all the Wu clan Gu Immortals.

"However, we cannot settle the matter of infringing on our Wu clan so easily. Although we won't expand our territories, we will get resources as compensation." Wu Yong continued, his voice containing a trace of battle intent.

Wu Zhen's spirits immediately rose: "First supreme elder is wise!"

...

Western Desert, Tang clan's headquarters.

"Heavenly Court's might really is frightening." Tang clan's second supreme elder was worried.

Tang clan's first supreme elder indifferently glanced at him, well aware of why the other had come.

Previously, when they discussed collaboration with Fang Yuan's group, the second supreme elder was opposed to it. Now that the news of Heavenly Court capturing Spectral Soul was publicized, Tang clan's Gu Immortals felt huge pressure.

"Will Heavenly Court hold us accountable for cooperating with Shadow Sect?" Second supreme elder sighed.

"So what if they do? So what if they do not?" First supreme elder smiled.

Second supreme elder frowned and said while pacing around: "If they don't blame us, it is naturally a matter of great joy, and we can continue to collaborate with Shadow Sect. But if they hold us accountable, our Tang clan is after all a super force of Western Desert, we can collaborate with other clans to resist Heavenly Court. Of course, we must strictly keep the secret and not let out any evidence. Otherwise, with justification on their side, Heavenly Court can interrogate us while our clan won't be able to seek reinforcements."

"Also, if that doesn't work, we can only sacrifice Tang Fang Ming and Tang Lan Ke for the clan."

First supreme elder laughed: "Haha, look, you already know how to deal with the situation, so what are you panicking for?"

"Ugh."

First supreme elder restrained his laughter, and said in a serious tone: "If Tang clan wants to rise, we must take such risks. Riches and fortune are found in danger, if we cannot grasp Thieving Heaven Demon Venerable's dream realm, would we be worthy of this great opportunity? As for Tang Fang Ming and Tang Lan Ke, they are already aware. Sacrificing for the clan is the greatest honor."

Second supreme elder sighed: "First supreme elder is wise!"

-x-X-x-

"Hahaha, elder Fang Yuan, you are back!" Lang Ya land spirit laughed heartily, walking towards Fang Yuan with open arms.

Fang Yuan also laughed: "I feel like I have returned home, my heart truly feels much more secure."

The two strongly hugged each other, their attitude was extremely warm.

"Elder Fang Yuan, your name has shaken the whole world now, congratulations." Lang Ya land spirit's gaze towards Fang Yuan was completely different from before.

Fang Yuan now possessed rank eight battle strength, this was his own battle strength, and was enough for Lang Ya land spirit to pay heavy attention to him.

Moreover, Fang Yuan had escaped from Heavenly Court's chase and safely returned to Lang Ya Sect.

This battle achievement would shake the world if it was publicized.

From Lang Ya land spirit's perspective, he was naturally willing to see Fang Yuan have irreconcilable hatred towards the number one human force, Heavenly Court.

The more Fang Yuan was hunted down, the more happy he would be.

Because he was a hairy man, and his obsession was to make hairy men the rulers of the world.

Naturally, Lang Ya Sect's safety was much more important. If he had not been convinced that Fang Yuan was 'clean' and had not left behind any clues for Heavenly Court to track down, Lang Ya land spirit would not have been so welcoming.

"Elder Fang Yuan, what are your plans now?" Lang Ya land spirit asked while walking.

Fang Yuan spoke bluntly without hesitation: "The situation is quite dangerous now, I intend to rest and reorganize for some time. I have already inherited Spectral Soul's true inheritance and become the new leader of Shadow Sect, as long as I have enough time, I can increase my cultivation and strength continually. Heavenly Court is not able to investigate me anymore. Now that I think of it, it was truly dangerous, I was fortunate to have first supreme elder fully supporting me!"

Lang Ya land spirit felt somewhat embarrassed, he could only laugh loudly.

He naturally did not fully support Fang Yuan, and only helped Fang Yuan refine Gu according to the sect rules he had set.

If he did, he would have already sent hairy man Gu Immortals to aid Fang Yuan.

The two conversed while walking.

Along the way, they saw many hairy man Gu Masters who bowed towards them respectfully.

Lang Ya Sect's development was also progressing rapidly.

Ever since Lang Ya land spirit changed the development strategy, promoting the hairy man war of the three continents, many outstanding hairy man Gu Masters had risen.

These hairy man elites were selected and brought to live in Cloud Cover Continent to guide them in further cultivation.

Murals of Lang Ya Sect's supreme elders were in each cloud city of Cloud Cover Continent.

And the cloud city belonging to Fang Yuan was much taller and had a giant statue of him.

As such, these Gu Masters were familiar with all Gu Immortal elders.

After discussing for a while, Fang Yuan bade farewell to Lang Ya land spirit.

The two had conversed cheerily, Lang Ya land spirit was of course extremely interested in Spectral Soul's true inheritance, while Fang Yuan wanted to use Lang Ya Sect's power to help him refine Immortal Gu.

Fang Yuan had some ability in refinement path, but against Lang Ya Sect, he paled in comparison.

Both sides set up many agreements, Lang Ya land spirit left in satisfaction.

Fang Yuan walked to a Gu refinement hall and saw Sixth Hair.

"So it was second supreme elder, sorry for not receiving you." Sixth Hair smiled.

He looked withered and haggard, and in a miserable state. When he saw Fang Yuan, complicated expressions were shown through his eyes.

There was joy, surges of emotions, loneliness, and sighs.

Events in life were mystical things, before, Sixth Hair had been wishing for Fang Yuan's death!

Now, Fang Yuan had become the leader of Shadow Sect, and was also the only hope in rescuing Spectral Soul's main body.

Since Fang Yuan protected Ying Wu Xie's life and had irreconcilable enmity with Heavenly Court, Sixth Hair also chose to acknowledge Fang Yuan's position.

"Sixth Hair pays respect to lord sect leader, please forgive me for not being able to pay full respects." Sixth Hair transmitted his voice.

This was Lang Ya blessed land, Lang Ya land spirit could observe everything clearly.

"It is just superficial etiquette, how could I mind these things?" Fang Yuan transmitted his voice: "I still need to thank you for your effort in helping me by refining Immortal Gu. Heavenly Court is my sworn enemy, there will be a day when I will invade Heavenly Court and use all my strength to rescue Spectral Soul's main body!"

Sixth Hair nodded, a radiant splendor flashing past his eyes as he turned around to lead the way: "Please, this way."

Actually, he was aware Fang Yuan's words did not have any assurance. If Fang Yuan wanted to break his word, he would suffer no punishment nor pay any price.

But for a human to live, they needed hope. Even if this hope was minuscule.

Moreover, Sixth Hair was aware that if Fang Yuan had not been recruited, just based on the remaining Shadow Sect Gu Immortals, they simply would not be Heavenly Court's match and would soon be wiped out.

Heavenly Court would not even need to make a move, Fang Yuan might be the first to move against Shadow Sect's remnant forces to gain benefits.

Purple Mountain True Monarch had already predicted the future situation, and so to preserve the remaining Shadow Sect forces and to sustain hope, he handed the whole of Shadow Sect to Fang Yuan.

Fang Yuan knew Purple Mountain True Monarch's intention, but he accepted it and was quite happy in doing so.

Fang Yuan followed Sixth Hair and walked some distance before arriving in front of a refinement path immortal formation.

There, flames were raging, but they were radiating extremely cold air.

The extreme coldness soon covered Fang Yuan's brows and the tips of his hair with a layer of frost.

"Lord sect leader, cleanse soul Immortal Gu's refinement has already reached its crucial stage. But I have failed several times in this step. My luck is inferior to yours, sect leader, you are more suitable to complete these final few steps." Sixth Hair transmitted his voice.

He then started to explain the steps of Gu refinement in detail, as well as many key points among them, his own experiences and insights.

Fang Yuan listened attentively, not missing even a single word.

Cleanse soul Immortal Gu was the crucial key to his next cultivation plan.

Almost at the same time, far away in Central Continent's Spirit Affinity House.

A peak rank five female Gu Master was faced with an important moment of her life.

At this moment, she wore combat armor, she had clear white skin and her eyes shone like stars, her arched eyebrows were slightly furrowed right now as she concentrated.

"You can begin." Spirit Affinity House's wisdom path Gu Immortal Xu Hao spoke.

At his side was a female immortal; she was Xu Hao's wife, Li Jun Ying.

Zhao Lian Yun nodded and took a deep breath as she started her immortal ascension!

In her rank five peak stage aperture, primeval essence surged like fierce waves and struck at the surrounding aperture walls.

Soon, cracks began to appear on the aperture walls.

Following the increase in cracks, a formless heavenly power began to slowly lift Zhao Lian Yun's body.

When she was raised over ten feet from the ground, Zhao Lian Yun stopped.

Currently, Zhao Lian Yun's eyes were closed, her whole concentration was on controlling the primeval essence in her aperture to fiercely smash at the aperture walls.

She was unaware that as the cracks on her aperture walls increased, the aura she revealed was becoming more dense and had already attracted two enormous waves of qi.

Heaven qi surged, dark clouds rolled in the sky, and thunder started booming.

Vast earth qi caused ground to shake and dust to rise.

Heaven qi and earth qi were increasing in intensity.

Suddenly, a crisp sound echoed as Zhao Lian Yun's aperture completely fragmented.

Immediately, an extremely dense human qi flowed out of her body!

Heaven qi, earth qi and human qi began to mutually attract each other and soon gathered together, forming a giant qi sphere that covered Zhao Lian Yun.

"You must persevere." Li Jun Ying mumbled.

Helping Zhao Lian Yun ascend to Gu Immortal was not just a task from Spirit Affinity House, even more, it concerned her and her husband Xu Hao's benefits in the sect.

Xu Hao and Li Jun Ying belonged to the Anti-Feng faction which was unable to get along with Feng Jiu Ge's faction.

And Zhao Lian Yun was the most crucial person in the Anti-Feng faction.

Xu Hao was solemn and cautious.

Zhao Lian Yun's ascension was different from others. Because she had divine concealment, she could not be deduced and calamities and tribulations could not descend upon her.

Such an immortal ascension was unprecedented in history. Even Thieving Heaven Demon Venerable had only created the first version of divine concealment after becoming a Gu Immortal.

As such, Xu Hao was extremely careful, paying full attention to Zhao Lian Yun's condition, he would immediately help if there was anything wrong.

However, at this moment, despite Xu Hao having an intense desire to help, he was unable to do so.

Three qi gathered, Zhao Lian Yun had to personally control its fusion process, outsiders could not interfere.

Before she underwent immortal ascension, Zhao Lian Yun had done large amounts of preparation and practice. With Gu Immortals training and instructing her, she was extremely familiar with the whole process of immortal ascension.

The qi sphere formed by the three qi became increasingly smaller.

This was a good change.

It showed Zhao Lian Yun was successfully condensing the three qi.

After a while, the three had shrunken to an extreme degree, Zhao Lian Yun opened her eyes and gave a cry as she sent her vital Gu into the center of the three qi.

Rumble!

A huge sound resounded, like the booming of thunder.

For an instant, Zhao Lian Yun was completely dazed, her gaze going blank.

But she came to her senses the very next moment, quickly looking at her aperture.

There was no longer an aperture, replacing it was an immortal aperture.

Rank six immortal aperture!

"I have succeeded!" Zhao Lian Yun wept from extreme joy.

-x-X-x-

Northern Plains, Lang Ya blessed land, Gu refinement hall.

The refinement path Gu formation slowly operated, the eerie blue cold fire had already turned into an iceberg.

Fang Yuan stood at the edge of the refinement path immortal formation and raised his hands, closely pressing his palms onto the iceberg.

His eyes shone brightly as he put almost all his concentration into the Gu refinement.

All kinds of Gu worm auras fluctuated in his body, there were auras of mortal Gu as well as Immortal Gu. He was using large amounts of refinement path methods as well as killer moves.

Under Fang Yuan's effort, the blue cold fire was still quietly burning inside the iceberg.

Gu materials were constantly refined by the fire, their impurities were removed, leaving behind only the purest essence.

An Immortal Gu embryo was beginning to form little by little.

Sixth Hair, who was standing at the side, was observing with a joyful look.

This progress had already surpassed his previous records.

This was naturally not because Fang Yuan's refinement path attainment was higher than Sixth Hair, but because of luck.

And an even more important reason was the refinement path method.

"To think that our sect had an inheritance of a refinement path great expert of the Remote Antiquity Era, Bei Luo." Sixth Hair inwardly sighed.

Bei Luo was a renowned historical figure, he was a rank eight refinement path Gu Immortal, and he was most specialized in the ice refinement method. Even until now, his ice refinement specialization was at a level where later generations could only look up to.

Right now, Fang Yuan was using Bei Luo's ice refinement killer move. Thus, he could easily surpass Sixth Hair's previous progress, and was only a step away from successfully refining cleanse soul Immortal Gu.

Even though Sixth Hair was a split soul and a member of Shadow Sect.

Back then, Shadow Sect had used soul replacement to place him in Lang Ya blessed land and had not given him a lot of memories regarding cultivation.

Because once these memories exceeded a limit, it could easily reveal some flaws when cultivating.

And in Lang Ya blessed land, Lang Ya land spirit was almost all-knowing, able to observe every small change in any part of the blessed land.

Now that Fang Yuan had become Shadow Sect's leader and obtained all the inheritances of Shadow Sect, his Gu cultivation foundation had risen explosively.

This increase could be said to be earthshaking. Even Fang Yuan himself felt a little dazed by it.

If Fang Yuan's foundation was like a lake earlier, after getting Shadow Sect's inheritances, it was like an ocean now.

Even Lang Ya Sect's foundation was below Shadow Sect's. Lang Ya Sect was established extremely long ago, but it was only created by the rank eight Gu Immortal Long Hair Ancestor, while Shadow Sect's founder was Spectral Soul Demon Venerable, who had massacred countless beings over the world!

So, when Fang Yuan understood the Gu refinement steps of cleanse soul Immortal Gu, he selected the most suitable refinement method from the large amounts of inheritances in his mind — Bei Luo Ice Refinement Method.

"Good. The Immortal Gu embryo has already mostly formed, success is very close!"

As time passed, Sixth Hair became increasingly excited.

His gaze moved to Fang Yuan once again.

"This man..." Sixth Hair's eyes flickered with a complex gaze.

"He has a solid foundation in refinement path, and also ample talent in it. More importantly, the ice refinement method seems to suit him greatly!" Sixth Hair thought to himself.

There were thousands upon thousands of refinement path methods; fire refinement, ice refinement, group refinement, time refinement, and so on. Some people were suited for fire refinement methods, while some were innately suited for water refinement methods.

Fang Yuan also discovered that the ice refinement method suited him very well.

"Looks like I should practice ice refinement method in my spare time. It seems to suit my personality even more than blood refinement."

While thinking, Fang Yuan mobilized his Gu worms, preparing for an immortal killer move.

There was already a huge number of myriad self clones in his immortal aperture.

While he was refining Gu, these clones were helping him set up the killer move.

When this immortal killer move was activated, Fang Yuan immediately felt warmth spreading throughout his whole body, resisting the bone-chilling coldness coming from the outside.

The intense coldness continually spread from the iceberg. This was a disadvantage of the ice refinement method, Gu Immortals had to refine Gu while resisting the coldness.

If myriad self had not been upgraded, it would be quite difficult for Fang Yuan to deal with many aspects.

But with the new myriad self, he was able to easily pass this difficulty.

Just as Fang Yuan was continuing to refine Gu, far away in Central Continent, Feng Jin Huang had climbed to a mountain peak.

It was dawn and there was still some darkness in the sky with a few scattered stars.

Feng Jin Huang breathed out as she gazed far away, but her face was filled with worry.

Being raised under the protection of Gu Immortal parents, the previous her did not know the taste of sorrow. Now, however, she had tasted setbacks and experienced the difficulties of life.

Especially in recent times, as Zhao Lian Yun succeeded in her immortal ascension.

This greatly increased the Anti-Feng faction's reputation in Spirit Affinity House, and with Feng Jiu Ge far away in Western Desert, Fairy Bai Qing was unable to deal with this alone, allowing Xu Hao's group to gain a lot of support.

From these events, Feng Jin Huang experienced difficulties and bitterness which she had not felt before. In her eyes, the sect had completely transformed.

"Sigh!" She sat down on a rock and sighed.

She started thinking of Zhao Lian Yun.

This girl came from behind and robbed Feng Jin Huang of her goal — the position of Spirit Affinity House's fairy. Now, she had succeeded in her immortal ascension, and was now different from mortals.

The scene of Zhao Lian Yun begging her was still clear in her mind.

"Zhao Lian Yun is an otherworldly demon, Fang Yuan is also an otherworldly demon. Why am I always losing to otherworldly demons?" Feng Jin Huang's thoughts were wandering, that unforgettable scene emerging from the depths of her mind.

It was at the peak of Dang Hun Mountain, when she first saw Fang Yuan...

Feng Jin Huang's face immediately flushed, she quickly shook her head and suppressed these scenes and memories.

"What use is there in thinking about this?"

"Feng Jin Huang, Feng Jin Huang, you need to keep on working harder! You need to put in more effort, become a Gu Immortal, and help father and mother."

Feng Jin Huang collected her thoughts and began to summarize her most recent dream realm experience.

That was the dream realm of the refinement path great expert Bei Luo.

"After passing this dream realm, my refinement path has already broken through to great grandmaster. Senior Bei Luo was most proficient in ice refinement, let's give it a try."

Feng Jin Huang spread her arms, her ten fingers twitched rhythmically and quickly, creating multiple layers of blurred images.

A gust of cold air immediately swirled around her hand, becoming more vigorous.

Feng Jin Huang was a refinement path great grandmaster, with such an outstanding attainment level, a Gu worm soon appeared out of the cold air.

This was an ice path rank three mortal Gu, it flew to Feng Jin Huang's shoulder and sat there motionlessly.

Following it, a second and third Gu worm flew out.

Moreover, their ranks were gradually climbing from rank three to rank four and five.

Feng Jin Huang's expression revealed joy, her eyes were gradually brightening and her finger movements became even faster.

But at the next moment, the cold air suddenly exploded, the Gu refinement failed and Feng Jin Huang suffered a backlash!

"Damn it!" Feng Jin Huang's heart sank and her face paled. She subconsciously closed her eyes and gritted her teeth to endure the incoming pain.

But nothing happened.

"What's going on?" Feng Jin Huang slowly opened her eyes.

She saw a tall man in front of her with one hand stretched before her eyes. That cold air which had exploded was now actually condensed into an ice sphere in his hand.

The man was truly tall, Feng Jin Huang's head only reached above his knees.

His long hair fluttered in the wind, his posture was grand and powerful, his gaze contained wisdom and the vicissitudes of life. What attracted Feng Jin Huang's attention was the pair of coral-like dragon horns on his forehead.

"Senior, you are? Thank you for saving me." Feng Jin Huang quickly bowed.

The tall man smiled: "There are countless refinement path methods, ice refinement, however, does not suit you, Feng Jin Huang. Your nature is active and bright, so you are more suited for metal refinement and fire refinement. As for ice refinement, those who are proficient in it usually have a patient and persistent nature."

The tall man then lightly clenched his fist, destroying the ice sphere in his palm.

Feng Jin Huang clicked her tongue in surprise, she was deeply aware of the might of this cold air, it was enough to severely injure an ordinary rank five Gu Master.

Her eyes suddenly brightened: "Senior, you are a Gu Immortal? You know my parents?"

Feng Jin Huang had come in contact with many Gu Immortals, so she did not feel uncomfortable. Normally speaking, those Gu Immortals were quite pleasant to her, mostly because they admired Feng Jiu Ge's great reputation.

Sure enough, the tall man nodded his head: "I know your parents, but right now, I came specially for you."

"For me?" Feng Jin Huang was surprised.

"Indeed." The tall man continued: "Oh Feng Jin Huang, in the future you will become Great Dream Immortal Venerable, you are destined to join Heavenly Court and lead this era, stunning the world and standing proudly at the peak of Gu Immortals! I am Heavenly Court's Gu Immortal Duke Long, I came here to take you in as my disciple, to lead you to the grand throne of a rank nine venerable."

"What?!" Feng Jin Huang's mouth opened wide as she looked at the tall man in a daze.

Duke Long smiled at Feng Jin Huang, his expression was peaceful and amiable.

Feng Jin Huang, however, had a look of 'I think this guy is a scammer' towards this legendary character who had defeated Spectral Soul.

She did not recognize Duke Long.

Duke Long's appearance was familiar to the Gu Immortals of the ten great ancient sects, but Feng Jin Huang was a mortal, and had no access to this knowledge.

Immortals and mortals were in two different worlds.

"Uncle, do you know that since ancient times, there were only ten people who became Gu Venerables. I know the prophecy regarding Great Dream Immortal Venerable, but how can I possibly be that Great Dream Immortal Venerable?" Feng Jin Huang asked.

"Don't doubt yourself." Duke Long smiled: "You are the future Great Dream Immortal Venerable. When you were young, a dream path Immortal Gu chose you, this was the sign! Your life should have been smooth sailing with dazzling achievements. Regretfully, some obstacles appeared."

"Those otherworldly demons who are not bound by fate, they stole your fortuitous encounters."

"Like Hu Immortal blessed land, and also the position of the current generation fairy of Spirit Affinity House."

"But none of these are important."

"Fate Immortal Gu will be completely restored in ten years. You will definitely become Great Dream Immortal Venerable, because this is all predestined by fate!"

Duke Long's expression was serious as he said this, his gaze was extremely firm like he was telling an absolute truth.

Nothing in this world could shake or change this truth.

Feng Jin Huang was also affected by his words, she was stumped for a moment, unable to say anything.

-x-X-x-

Pieces of ice fell to the ground.

"Cough, cough." Fang Yuan pressed on his chest as he coughed out blood clots from his heart and lungs.

These blood clots had solidified into small pieces, letting out intense coldness.

Fang Yuan's expression was unusual, his face looked purple, he had suffered a huge injury.

The Gu refinement had failed, the giant iceberg exploded, and Fang Yuan had to forcibly endure the backlash.

Immortal Gu Man as Before!

Fang Yuan immediately activated his Immortal Gu, restoring himself to his previous state.

The purple tint on his face disappeared, and his injuries were almost all gone. But there was still large amounts of frost energy solidifying inside his body, making him feel uncomfortable.

The frost energy was not a result of the Gu refinement failure, but had accumulated in Fang Yuan's body throughout the refinement process.

Because the time duration was long, Man as Before was not able to produce perfect results.

"Speaking of which, I have mainly been relying on Man as Before as my healing method. This rank six Immortal Gu is extremely useful, and is the core to many killer moves in the Shadow Sect inheritances."

"Given some time, after I train and get proficient in these killer moves, my healing ability will definitely rise sharply!"

Fang Yuan started pondering when suddenly a flash of inspiration hit him.

"Wait. Since there is Man as Before, why is there no Gu as Before?"

A Gu worm to heal Gu worms!

This was possible.

"If there is an Immortal Gu like Gu as Before, can't I use it as the core to design an immortal killer move to help me refine Gu?"

"If there is truly such a killer move, then I could have used it just before to immediately recover the damage and return back to the final step of the Gu refinement."

Fang Yuan's eyes shone as he began to inspect the storage of Shadow Sect inheritances in his mind.

The true inheritance contents of Shadow Sect was as vast as a sea. After Fang Yuan looked through them, he found that this idea had already been envisioned by predecessors.

And there were many who thought of this.

Most of them were refinement path Gu Immortals, and there were also those of time path.

There were many inheritances where predecessors had recorded their thoughts and results regarding Gu as Before.

However, they were all incomplete Immortal Gu recipes, and not one was deduced completely.

It was very difficult to realize this concept.

As far as most Gu Immortals were concerned, Man as Before had a limited range of use. Rank six Man as Before had a very weak effect on rank seven Gu Immortals, and often the activation would fail. Rank seven Man as Before also did not have outstanding effects on most rank seven Gu Immortals.

Unless the target was a time path Gu Immortal with a lot of time path dao marks, then they would not conflict with Man as Before, and also be able to amplify its ability.

Since Man as Before was like this, Gu as Before was even more troubling.

To Gu Immortals, using Gu as Before to restore mortal Gu had small significance because Gu Immortals did not lack mortal Gu. The matter of mortal Gu was only a problem of quantity for them.

Naturally, lifespan Gu was an exception.

But using Gu as Before to restore Immortal Gu was even more difficult than restoring Gu Immortals. Because every Immortal Gu was a fragment of the Great Dao in their respective paths.

There was a strong conflict between Immortal Gu of different paths.

Immortal Gu could coordinate with each other, but using their effect on another Immortal Gu was a completely different concept.

Unless they had dominance in rank. For instance, using rank seven Gu as Before to restore rank six Gu had some likelihood. But using it on rank seven would definitely fail.

The concept of Gu as Before was extremely enticing, but it was too difficult to create in reality.

There were many Gu Immortals who had such inspirations, and there was not a lack of refinement path and time path great grandmasters among them. Unfortunately, none of their efforts succeeded.

Gu as Before was not a viable concept, but Fang Yuan had other ways around it.

For instance, some refinement path immortal formations.

These immortal formations had short-term effects of backtracking through time. Gu Immortals could activate these immortal formations to restore any mistakes.

In Shadow Sect's inheritances, there were over ten such immortal Gu formations.

But each of them had some disadvantages – some had enormous demand on immortal essence, some had limited numbers of times they could backtrack through time, and some were only limited to refining rank six Immortal Gu.

Among these immortal Gu formations, the greatest one was Immortal Gu House Regret Pool.

One of the three legendary pools of the world.

"Unfortunately, be it Regret Pool or those immortal Gu formations, I only have the inheritances but lack the suitable Immortal Gu." Fang Yuan sighed, feeling troubled at having the knowledge but not having materials to put it to use.

Actually, in his current situation, there were too many options laid in front of him!

When ordinary people came across immortal opportunities and inherited some predecessor's inheritance, they would jump in joy, their cultivation journey would also brighten up and their prospects would widen.

Fang Yuan's Shadow Sect inheritances were gathered by Spectral Soul Demon Venerable in his life, and even continued for one hundred thousand years after his death.

It could be said Fang Yuan had obtained a sea of inheritances. He had countless choices in his cultivation journey.

And among these choices, the most attractive were soul path, time path, earth path and space path. Because they were inheritances of venerables, even a small portion could create chaos and cause Gu Immortals over the five regions to engage in mortal combat.

With these in his hands, needless to say, Fang Yuan's future prospects were limitless.

But the things that could truly provide the greatest help to Fang Yuan were not these new choices.

Because although these choices had immense prospects and were extremely tempting, the amount of time, energy and resources they consumed were astronomical.

The one thing that could greatly help Fang Yuan currently was wisdom Gu.

The light of wisdom could provide an incomparable help to cultivation. Fang Yuan had already tasted the benefits of this, and had an extremely deep impression of it.

And to obtain wisdom Gu's acknowledgement once again, he had to use his original rank six strength path immortal zombie body.

Fang Yuan already had the method to get rid of the soul path trap in the immortal zombie body, he was only lacking the core Immortal Gu, Cleanse Soul.

It all simmered down to refining cleanse soul Immortal Gu!

Regretfully, they had already tried to refine cleanse soul Immortal Gu over ten times, but all the attempts failed.

"Although the ice refinement method suits me really well, I have not focused on ice path before, moreover these final few steps are truly difficult." Fang Yuan sighed.

"That's true." Sixth Hair went up to Fang Yuan's side and sighed as he looked at the ground filled with ice pieces.

The success rate of refining an Immortal Gu was too low, it was a pit with no end in sight.

Only the current Fang Yuan had such accumulation and resolution to continue the attempts to refine cleanse soul Immortal Gu.

Currently, Fang Yuan had one big concern, whether someone had already refined cleanse soul Immortal Gu.

Immortal Gu were unique. If that was the case, he would not be able to succeed in the refinement no matter what.

However, this could be investigated to some degree.

If the Immortal Gu refinement had no mistakes during the whole process, but failed inexplicably at the moment of success, it would imply someone had already refined cleanse soul Immortal Gu.

But cleanse soul Immortal Gu's recipe was a secret, and the range of its circulation was quite small, adding on that it had not been long since it had been destroyed, Fang Yuan's chances were still high.

"Hmm... maybe we can modify the last few steps. We can use snow lotus essence to replace those ice path immortal materials." Sixth Hair said.

"Modifying the Immortal Gu recipe?" Fang Yuan mumbled, slightly nodding his head.

The final few steps were truly too difficult. After replacing the immortal materials, these few steps could be broken down, although it would lengthen the procedures and time of the entire refinement process, the difficulty would decrease by a lot.

"Then let's try modifying the Immortal Gu recipe." Fang Yuan considered for a moment before deciding.

Modifying an Immortal Gu recipe could not be done casually, and required continuous attempts, it contained huge risks and would waste many resources.

"But snow lotus essence, this rank seven immortal material, is quite difficult to obtain, and is rarely seen in treasure yellow heaven." Fang Yuan was slightly worried.

Sixth Hair smiled: "That's of no concern, snowman tribes produce a lot of this immortal material. Don't forget that we have already joined Northern Plains' variant human alliance. I have asked around and found that the snowman tribe below the northern icy plain has plenty of snow lotus essence."

"Let's purchase them then." Fang Yuan put his mind at ease.

Although he had few immortal essence stones currently, he had countless Shadow Sect inheritances, just taking out some of these could lead to terrifying chaos and carnage.

Thus, Fang Yuan was simply not worried that the snowman tribe would be unmoved!

"I must obtain the snow lotus essence!" A sharp light flashed past Fang Yuan's eyes.

He had to refine cleanse soul Immortal Gu as fast as possible, for this, Fang Yuan would not hesitate to pay any cost.