Chapter 8 - Return To The Central Continent

Xuanyuan Tian's journey back to the Central Continent was marked by a deep contemplation of recent events and the challenges that lay ahead.

As the massive landmass of the Central Continent came into view, its immense size and grandeur were a stark reminder of the power and influence that resided within.

The Central Continent was the heart of the world, a vast expanse where the most prestigious sects, academies, and clans held sway. It was a place of both opportunity and danger, where the strongest powers vied for dominance and the most talented cultivators honed their skills.

Upon his arrival at the Xuanyuan Family's ancestral grounds, Xuanyuan Tian was met with a blend of awe and reverence. The family estate was a symbol of their ancient lineage and power, with grand halls and ancient pavilions that spoke of their storied history.

The guards at the estate's gates recognized him immediately, their eyes widening with respect as they bowed deeply. "Young Master Tian," one of them stammered, "Welcome back."

Xuanyuan Tian gave a curt nod and proceeded through the gates, his presence commanding respect without need for words. The estate's imposing architecture, with towering columns and intricate carvings, served as a testament to the family's greatness.

He made his way to the main hall, where the patriarch and elders awaited him. The hall was an imposing structure, with an air of solemnity and authority. As Xuanyuan Tian entered, the room fell silent, the weight of his presence palpable.

At the head of the hall sat his father, Xuanyuan Zhen. The patriarch was a man in his prime, exuding an aura of power and command. His cultivation was at the Immortal Will stage of Immortal Ascension, a level that made him one of the most formidable figures in the world.

His sharp features and piercing gaze conveyed both his authority and his deep concern for his family's future.

"You're back," Xuanyuan Zhen said, his voice resonant with authority.

"Father," Xuanyuan Tian replied with a slight incline of his head. "I have received news about the pocket dimension."

Xuanyuan Zhen's expression hardened with focus. "The pocket dimension is said to contain the inheritance of an ancient immortal. It is no surprise that many powers are eager to send their most capable young representatives."

Xuanyuan Tian remained calm and indifferent. "I have seen many so-called geniuses before. Most are nothing more than fleeting shadows in the grand scheme of things."

The elders present exchanged uneasy glances. They were accustomed to Xuanyuan Tian's confidence but were wary of his apparent disdain for the other powers. Xuanyuan Lin, an elder with a stern demeanor and cultivation at the Late Stage of Immortal Ascension, spoke up. "Tian'er, the Central Continent is a different world compared to the Eastern Continent. The young talents here are not to be underestimated."

Xuanyuan Tian's gaze was unwavering. "I've faced many of them before, they are strong but not invincible. If they oppose me, I will crush them."

Xuanyuan Lei, another elder added, "Ling Tianyi of the Ling Clan is making significant strides, rumored to be approaching the Soul Formation stage. Yu Zhilan of the Yu Clan is an expert in alchemy, while Feng Qingshan of the Feng Sect is already in the Early Stage of Soul Formation. They may prove to be worthy opponents."

The Grand Elder, Xuanyuan Xun, a figure whose cultivation was at the Immortal Will stage like the patriarch, regarded Xuanyuan Tian with a knowing look. "The Central Continent's young talents have improved, but so have you. Your previous victories have set a high bar. However, do not underestimate the current generation."

Xuanyuan Tian's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "I have no intention of underestimating anyone. But I also have no intention of letting any of them stand in my way."

The room fell silent once more, the weight of Xuanyuan Tian's words hanging heavily in the air. The Xuanyuan Family was well aware of the hidden experts within their ranks, individuals whose strength surpassed even the top elders. The family's structure was meticulously designed, with each member playing a crucial role in maintaining their dominance.

The cultivation hierarchy of the Xuanyuan Family was clear. The patriarch and Grand Elder stood at the pinnacle, their Immortal Will stage powers commanding respect and fear.

The elders, with their Void Ascension and Immortal Ascension stages, were formidable in their own right. Beneath them were the hidden experts, whose true strength was known only to a select few. These individuals were a testament to the family's depth and resources.

Xuanyuan Tian was aware of the family's aspirations. Despite the current cultivation limit of Law Embodiment (Stage 9), which had left the world in a state of longing for the legendary World Sovereign stage, the Xuanyuan Family remained determined to reach new heights. The absence of a World Sovereign in recent years had only fueled their ambition.

"Very well," Xuanyuan Zhen finally said, his voice carrying a note of approval. "But remember, Tian, while strength is important, wisdom is equally so. The pocket dimension is a place of great danger, not just from the trials within, but from the competitors outside. You must be cautious."

Xuanyuan Tian nodded slightly, acknowledging his father's advice. "I understand Father."

Xuanyuan Lei, sensing the tension in the room, decided to steer the conversation toward practical matters. "The pocket dimension is rumored to open in three days. Representatives from all the major powers will be there. We've already received confirmation that the Ling Clan, Yu Clan, Feng Sect, and others will send their best. We should prepare accordingly."

Xuanyuan Tian glanced at Xuanyuan Lei. "There's no need for excessive preparation. I will go alone."

The room fell silent once more, the elders exchanging uneasy glances. The idea of Xuanyuan Tian entering the pocket dimension without support was unsettling. The competition would be fierce, and while they had no doubts about his strength, the risks were undeniable.

Xuanyuan Lin frowned, his concern evident. "Tian'er, this is not just a matter of strength. The pocket dimension is unpredictable. It's better to have allies, even if only for the sake of caution."

Xuanyuan Tian's gaze hardened. "Allies are only useful if they do not become liabilities. I work better alone and on my terms, If the family wishes to send others, they can come for experience."

Xuanyuan Zhen raised a hand, silencing any further objections from the elders. "Let Tian decide how he wishes to proceed. His instincts have served him well so far. We must trust in his judgment."

The elders reluctantly nodded, deferring to the patriarch's decision. Xuanyuan Tian's reputation and strength were undeniable, and if anyone could navigate the dangers of the pocket dimension alone, it was him.

With the matter settled, Xuanyuan Zhen shifted the conversation to other topics, discussing the recent movements of the other major powers and the family's ongoing plans. Xuanyuan Tian listened in silence, his mind already focused on the challenges ahead.

As the meeting concluded, Xuanyuan Zhen called his son aside. The two stood alone in the grand hall, the flickering light of the torches casting long shadows across the floor.

"Tian," Xuanyuan Zhen began, his tone more personal now that they were alone, "I know you prefer to walk your path alone, but remember that the Xuanyuan Family is your foundation. No matter what happens, you can always rely on us."

Xuanyuan Tian met his father's gaze, his expression softening slightly. "I know, Father, Thank You."

Xuanyuan Zhen smiled, a rare expression of warmth. " Good. Remember, while the pocket dimension is a chance for you to prove your strength, it is also an opportunity to forge alliances and gain valuable intelligence. The Central Continent is a place where political and martial prowess go hand in hand. Now go Tian, Show the world what it means to bear the Xuanyuan name."

With a final nod, Xuanyuan Tian turned and left the hall, his thoughts already on the upcoming challenge. The pocket dimension awaited, and with it, the opportunity to further his own power and secure the future of his family.

Tian couldn't help but wonder if this new gathering would offer any true challenge. Would there be someone capable of catching his attention, or would it be another occasion where he stood unchallenged, his dominance reaffirmed?

As he stepped out into the night, Xuanyuan Tian's resolve solidified. The Central Continent, with all its powers and secrets, was nothing more than another stage on which he would prove himself. The so-called geniuses of the world would soon learn that there was only one true genius, one who stood above all others.

And that genius was Xuanyuan Tian.