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Chapter 201: Grasping the Sword Once More (Second Update)

"Comparable to the Rebirth of a Saint!"

The old Daoist from Qingqiu Mountain didn't hold back any longer. His face, besides being filled with surprise, also held a hint of excitement. "Young Master's bones far surpass those of a Ninth-Grade Battle Body. Such a situation, I haven't seen in thousands of years!"

After Qingqiu Mountain submitted to the Great Yu Dynasty, it lived in seclusion. The old fox was an extremely ancient being from Qingqiu Mountain, with vast knowledge and experience.

"Oh?"

Li Tianzong's eyes gleamed. Rebirth of a Saint?!

Chen Hefang and the others were also shocked, staring at the old Daoist in disbelief.

"A typical Ninth-Grade Battle Body has at least one main bone within, like divine iron, jade, or metal, containing seven-colored hidden light. The surface of the bone has flowing patterns, signifying the highest grade!"

The old Daoist from Qingqiu Mountain said excitedly, "But Young Master's entire body is like that!"

"Seventy-two main bones, all radiating divine light, with flowing patterns, like innate Dao patterns!"

"Once Young Master embarks on the path of cultivation, he will surely soar to the heavens, comparable to the reincarnation of a Saint. His path of cultivation will be unstoppable, breaking through realms as easily as eating and drinking, unmatched by anyone!!"

Hearing the old Daoist's words, Chen Hefang and the others finally came to their senses, looking at Li Hao with a mixture of shock and joy.

This was a legendary assessment of talent!

Typically, a Ninth-Grade Battle Body was the limit, but Li Hao possessed divine bones throughout his body, his divine form like jade, comparable to the Rebirth of a Saint!

True Saints were always legends, said to live in seclusion, transcendent and detached from the world. Currently, the closest person to a Saint in the Great Yu Dynasty was the True Person from the Qian Dao Palace.

"Good, good, good, truly worthy of being my son!"

Li Tianzong burst into laughter, his face beaming with pride.

"Congratulations, Duke, congratulations, Madam!"

The old Daoist from Qingqiu Mountain bowed in congratulations, his gaze sweeping over the children nearby. He was secretly astonished. Such talent was even more terrifying than the Great Yu's first emperor back then.

The Li family lineage was brimming with talent, and it seemed they were about to lead the Li family to another era of glory!

"Truly worthy of being the Tenth!"

"Wow, Tenth Brother, you've secretly surpassed us by a huge margin!"

"Ninth Brother, you've been outdone by Tenth Brother!"

The other "brothers" excitedly gathered around Li Hao, some hooking his shoulders, others his neck, and some vigorously rubbing his hair, all with expressions of surprise and excitement.

Li Junye, the Ninth Brother, who was two years older than Li Hao, was now seven years old and had already displayed remarkable insight and talent in the martial arts arena.

But ultimately, he was still a child. At this moment, he was also beaming at Li Hao, saying, "Tenth Brother, in another year, you'll be able to cultivate too!"

"Will we be overtaken by Tenth Brother?"

"It seems we need to work even harder."

The other "brothers" chuckled.

Li Hao looked at these "uncles" surrounding him, his expression strange. Though he knew his current identity and had joined their ranks, becoming a super-senior, this kind of interaction still made him feel a little awkward.

His gaze swept across their faces, seeing the genuine smiles on each one, and Li Hao could feel the unbreakable bond of brotherhood between them.

However, this was also due to the guidance of their elders, coupled with the fact that they were all born of the same mother.

Faced with this enthusiastic and excited physical contact, Li Hao felt a little uncomfortable and wanted to step back.

But he was the center of attention at the moment. If he did step back, he worried it might be different from his "托管" (entrusted) state, and the direct comparison might reveal a flaw. He had no choice but to endure for now.

"You little rascal, you've got guts!"

"How come the younger you are, the smarter you become? Did Mother save all the good stuff for the end?"

"Are you itching for a beating? Are you saying that Big Brother is the least intelligent?"

"Hey, hey, stop pinching me, it hurts, it hurts!"

The numerous "brothers" surrounded Li Hao, playfully teasing and jostling him, sometimes using his body as a shield.

Li Hao was pulled this way and that, his head ruffled into a mess.

Seeing these cheerful and excited fellows, he felt a touch of helplessness. His mature soul couldn't fully integrate with their boisterous energy, but for some reason, this atmosphere made him feel comfortable and at ease.

That day, Li Tianzong announced the news and held a grand feast.

The manor was bustling with activity.

Li Hao looked at the brightly lit Marshal's Manor, at the lively and playful scene of the nine Li family sons, his eyes slightly hazy.

Was this the former image of the Li family?

Compared to the cold and empty courtyards, where only women remained, it was far more lively now.

When they all got married, it would undoubtedly be even more lively.

But for some reason, even though he was in the midst of this lively atmosphere, Li Hao felt a sense of detachment, as if he were an outsider.

Despite the surrounding clamor, his heart was calmer and more composed than ever before, even with a hint of a chilling night.

Because he knew that this harmonious scene no longer existed in the Li family outside the Mo River.

And he was no longer a member of the Li family.

"Tenth Brother, what are you thinking about?"

Big Brother, Li Xingbei, walked over with a wine cup. He had just been clinking glasses with the numerous dukes and nobles who had come to offer congratulations, and now he was standing before Li Hao, smiling.

"Is the food not to your liking? Tell Big Brother, I'll have them change your table."

"Tenth Brother wouldn't be nervous because of all the people, would he? Haha, no need to be nervous, three thousand guests, dukes and nobles, when they see the Li family, they must bow their heads!"

Second Brother, Li Fengping, also came over, chuckling, but his voice was lowered.

Then, he roared with laughter again.

"Just now, several dukes came to propose marriage to Tenth Brother!" Third Brother, Li Jianming, chuckled. He was about fifteen years old, a spirited young man.

Li Hao remembered that this Third Uncle seemed to have died fighting demons at the border, and his only daughter had gone to the border to join the army to avenge her father, not returning to the Li Manor for many years.

"Indeed, Ninth Brother also had many people proposing marriage, but Father refused them all."

Li Xingbei laughed, "Now that Tenth Brother's talent is even higher, even if the Imperial Family comes to propose marriage, Father would have to consider it carefully."

They surrounded Li Hao, chatting. Li Hao sat at the table, listening silently. When he saw several figures approaching from a distance, including one that made him feel uncomfortable, he averted his gaze, then closed his eyes, speeding up the time skip.

The sounds of clinking glasses and conversation quickly faded away, the scenery changed, and a wave of weakness washed over him.

Li Hao was surprised and saw himself lying on a bed.

He reached out to touch himself, but felt his arm was limp and weak.

As if sensing his awakening, a figure dozing nearby jolted awake, immediately jumping up and rushing to the bedside:

"Tenth Brother, how are you feeling? Are you feeling better?"

Li Hao looked at the other person's face. Based on his memories from the bone-measuring, he remembered that this was Li Ziyue, the Sixth Brother of the Li family.

He was also the father of Li Yuanzhao.

Only, Li Ziyue was only a little over ten years old at this moment, looking quite young.

But the concern and tension in his eyes were genuine.

Perhaps because of Li Yuanzhao, Li Hao felt a natural fondness for him and asked in confusion, "Sixth Brother?"

"You're finally awake. Earlier at the banquet, a demon disguised as a noble almost assassinated you."

Li Ziyue seemed relieved, then immediately shouted at the top of his lungs towards the outside.

A demon attack... Li Hao's heart turned cold. He was only five years old, and the demon couldn't wait to assassinate him, and could even infiltrate the Marshal's Manor.

He didn't know if it was due to the flaws in the Mo River or if the demon had some special infiltration techniques.

"Fortunately, Fourth Uncle acted in time and killed the demon." Li Ziyue told Li Hao.

Upon hearing this, Li Hao breathed a sigh of relief. It seemed that Fourth Master had been paying attention to him, which allowed him to react in time.

"Big Brother and the others were also injured and are recovering." Li Ziyue said.

Li Hao asked, "Besides me, is everyone else okay?"

"They're all fine, just minor injuries. The demon's main targets were you and Ninth Brother."

Li Ziyue said, "Ninth Brother was further away, so he wasn't seriously injured."

"That's good." Li Hao felt relieved.

At this moment, as news of his awakening spread, many people rushed over.

"Little Ten, are you alright?" Chen Hefang rushed over, her face filled with worry and concern.

Li Hao also saw his other "brothers," but Li Tianzong wasn't there. He asked, "Where's Father?"

"Father went to kill demons outside the city to avenge you." Second Brother, Li Fengping, said. He had a bandage on his forehead, seemingly injured.

Li Hao fell silent for a moment.

He knew he had to hurry up with his cultivation.

Li Hao's gaze swept across their faces one by one, then he closed his eyes and sped up this period of recovery.

When he opened his eyes again, Li Hao was in a side room, with a drawing board in front of him. His body was completely healed, and the feeling of weakness had disappeared.

The people who had gathered around him were gone, and the sudden emptiness made him pause for a moment, but he quickly adjusted and picked up his brush to start painting.

While painting, Li Hao was also pondering about expanding his skills and increasing his Skill Points as soon as possible.

Halfway through his painting, the door was pushed open, and Li Hao saw Li Hongzhuang slip inside.

Li Hongzhuang was now three years old and had begun her foundation-building cultivation.

Li Hao asked, "Have you finished your foundation-building for today?"

"Yeah."

Li Hongzhuang nodded. Although only three years old, she was extremely well-behaved and sensible, and displayed a clever and intelligent side. She said,

"Tenth Brother, why are you always painting?"

"Because I like it."

"Then, Tenth Brother, do you like Hongzhuang?"

"I like you too."

"Then you have to spend more time with Hongzhuang."

Li Hongzhuang walked over, tugging at Li Hao's clothes, her eyes filled with longing.

Li Hao was speechless. This little girl had learned how to sweet-talk people.

"Okay, okay, Brother will accompany you." Li Hao said, becoming increasingly accustomed and proficient in his current identity.

"Hmph, Tenth Brother only does his own thing and never plays with Hongzhuang."

Li Hongzhuang pouted.

Li Hao immediately came up with a plan and suggested they play hide-and-seek.

Li Hongzhuang's eyes lit up at the suggestion, immediately agreeing and running off.

Li Hao sent her away and continued painting.

When he was tired of painting, he suddenly thought of going to the kitchen to accumulate some experience in the Culinary path. The initial Skill Points were relatively easy to obtain.

He could also collect some firewood and kindling from the kitchen and learn Carving.

Li Hao went out with this in mind, but saw Li Hongzhuang standing at the door, looking sulky. Li Hao was surprised, "Why are you here?"

"Tenth Brother didn't come looking for me!"

Li Hongzhuang said angrily.

Li Hao was speechless. He coughed lightly, "I did look for you. I searched everywhere but couldn't find you, so I thought you were hiding here and came back."

"Tenth Brother is lying."

Li Hongzhuang said angrily, "I was just hiding in the flower bed in the courtyard by the door."

"..."

Li Hao was speechless. This little clever girl was really hard to fool.

"Come on, Tenth Brother will take you to make some food." Li Hao immediately changed the subject and led her towards the kitchen.

Li Hongzhuang, after all, was just a three-year-old child, and was quickly captivated by Li Hao's suggestion. She asked curiously, "What are we making?"

"You'll see."

Li Hao smiled and took Li Hongzhuang to the kitchen. The servants there, seeing Li Hao, hurriedly bowed.

Li Hao, however, acted very maturely, asking them to clear a stove and bring out ingredients, and asked Li Hongzhuang to participate and cook with him.

Children, especially little girls, seemed to have a natural love for pretend play. She quickly forgot about Li Hao's previous trickery, kneading and washing the ingredients with her small hands, her little face extremely serious. She arranged each washed ingredient on a plate, neatly stacked.

"Young Master..."

Many of the kitchen servants rushed over, standing nearby as if facing a major enemy, afraid that Li Hao might have an accident.

They were also curiously observing this young master whose name was known throughout the Marshal's Manor from a close distance. Usually, these kitchen servants were not qualified to see the bright and shining direct descendants.

As the stove fire ignited, Li Hao began to cook with a practiced hand.

"Brother, can I pour it in now?"

"Later, I'll let you pour when it's time."

"Okay!"

"Brother, do we put the scallions in last?"

"Yeah."

Li Hongzhuang stood beside him, acting as Li Hao's chief assistant.

Li Hao saw the experience points rising and a smile appeared on his lips. At this rate, before he started cultivating at six years old, he should be able to accumulate four or five Skill Points.

Soon, the servants outside suddenly knelt down in panic:

"Master, please calm down."

Two figures walked in, dressed in luxurious clothes. It was Li Tianzong and Chen Hefang.

Seeing Li Hao standing on a stool in the kitchen, flipping food in a pan, the couple was momentarily stunned. They had rushed over after hearing the news from the servants.

Li Tianzong had just returned from killing demons outside the city and had changed out of his armor into a brocade robe. It had been half a month since Li Hao was injured at the banquet.

"Little Ten, what are you doing?"

Li Tianzong couldn't help but ask, "Who taught you? Why are you in this place?"

Seeing his furrowed brow, Li Hao's heart tightened slightly, and he came up with an excuse, "I wanted to cook for you."

Li Hongzhuang nodded and smiled beside him, showing her teeth, "Father, Mother, we'll be done soon. Do you want to eat?"

Li Tianzong and Chen Hefang were both speechless. Cooking was the work of servants, how could they demean themselves like this.

However, seeing the tension in Li Hao's eyes and the bright smile on Li Hongzhuang's face, they exchanged glances and their expressions softened.

Before they could speak, Li Hao lifted the lid, "The dish is ready, add salt."

Li Hongzhuang immediately stopped smiling, her face tense. She held the salt shaker and carefully scooped out a few grains.

"Not enough."

Then, she scooped out half a spoonful.

"Not enough, more."

A large spoonful of salt was poured in.

Li Hao was speechless. He quickly used a spatula to scoop some out, "Enough, enough."

He thought to himself that next time, he should handle the seasoning himself.

Then, he struggled to scoop all the food out of the pan and, seeing the hesitant couple, Li Hao said with a wry smile, "Would you like to try some?"

Li Tianzong glanced at him and used his fingers to pick up a piece of meat and vegetable. The heat made him hiss slightly. He nodded impassively, "Hmm, it tastes good."

"Use chopsticks."

Chen Hefang sighed helplessly. Men were too rough. She took the chopsticks from the maid and gently picked up some food. Her brow furrowed slightly.

But seeing Li Tianzong's smiling face, she could only say helplessly, "You've worked hard. It's rare for you to have this kind of heart. Go wash your hands and come back with us."

"Yeah, bring that dish too. My son's cooking suits my taste. Also, get me a small pot of wine. I want to savor it slowly."

Li Tianzong instructed.

Li Hao was a little surprised. His Culinary skill was still at Level 1, and his skills were entirely based on his experience as a single man in his past life.

He also picked up a piece of meat and ate it, almost spitting it out. It was indeed too salty!

Li Tianzong saw Li Hao's wrinkled face and laughed, "Next time, use less salt. Don't waste this meat. Our common people work hard in the fields, risking attacks from demons, working from sunrise to sunset. We must treat food with respect."

Li Hao was slightly stunned and nodded slightly, "Understood."

Before leaving, he found two pieces of wood to take with him.

"What are you taking these for?" Chen Hefang asked in surprise.

Li Hao said seriously, "I want to carve some little people for you."

"Hmm? Can you carve?" Li Tianzong walked ahead, surprised.

"Not yet, but I can learn."

"You, don't put all your energy into this. You've had your bones measured. You should read more martial arts manuals. You'll be starting your cultivation soon." Chen Hefang advised helplessly.

Li Tianzong nodded slightly, "Your main task is to practice martial arts. If you like these things, play with them, but don't get too obsessed, understand?"

"I understand."

Seeing that their attitude wasn't too harsh and they weren't too opposed to it, Li Hao felt relieved.

Back in the courtyard, Li Hao asked Zhao Bo for a small knife and began to carve.

With the Carving path also recorded, Li Hao began his journey of accumulating experience again.

And the carvings he produced became increasingly lifelike and vivid.

Time flew by.

Li Hao had to skip time every two days. After all, his five-year-old body, though possessing jade-like divine bones and a physique far stronger than ordinary children, still lacked the mental strength to support prolonged wakefulness.

After two or three time skips, Li Hao turned six years old.

During his time skips, his previously mastered skills in Carving, Painting, etc., also accumulated experience according to the predetermined trajectory.

Now, Li Hao's Painting skill was at Level 5, Culinary at Level 2, and Carving at Level 3.

He also had 5 Skill Points!

"Little Ten, this is your first time cultivating. Take a look at these weapons. Which one do you like?"

Li Tianzong brought Li Hao to the martial arts arena. Besides the numerous "brothers" practicing martial arts, there were also other direct and illegitimate Li family children from other courtyards.

Li Hao saw a young face in the crowd that resembled Li He.

In addition, there was another face that resembled Li Fu.

Li Fu didn't live in the main courtyard of the Marshal's Manor, but was raised as Li Tianzong's illegitimate son and lived in the courtyard for illegitimate children.

Li Hao didn't waste any time. His gaze fell on the weapons, and he immediately saw the second weapon, a long sword.

Li Hao stepped forward, picked up the sword, and swung it a few times, feeling quite familiar with it.

After all, his Swordsmanship was at Level 1.

"Do you like swords? Then give it a try."

Li Tianzong chuckled softly and gestured to the instructor in the martial arts arena to teach Li Hao basic sword techniques.

The instructor stepped forward, his attitude polite. He picked up a sword and demonstrated the technique once, then said, "Young Master, have you memorized the moves I just demonstrated? See if you can replicate them, let me see your swordsmanship aptitude."

Li Hao immediately raised his hand, and the sword light danced.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 202: Seven Years Old, Million-Jin Strength (Third Update, Seeking Monthly Tickets)

The sword movements were light and graceful, like a dancing dragon.

Li Hao didn't hide his talent. With a casual gesture, he demonstrated the sword technique the instructor had just practiced, showcasing a level of dexterity.

The instructor was stunned, his jaw nearly hitting the ground.

But before he could fully recover from his shock, Li Hao continued practicing. The second time, he executed the technique flawlessly.

The instructor felt as if struck by lightning. His eyes widened in disbelief as he stared at Li Hao. In just two attempts, he had reached the perfect level?!

Li Hao casually flipped the sword, handing the hilt to the instructor.

The instructor was momentarily stunned before taking it. He turned to Li Tianzong, knowing that even without saying anything, the child's swordsmanship talent was evident for all to see, utterly terrifying.

Indeed, Li Tianzong was dumbfounded. He only snapped out of it when Li Hao finished his sword practice. Unable to contain his excitement, he stomped his foot and rushed to Li Hao, asking, "Little Ten, is this your first time practicing swordsmanship?"

He placed a hand on Li Hao's shoulder, his expression filled with excitement.

"Mm."

Li Hao saw the excited, trembling eyes of his "father," realizing that the sensation was so real.

"My son, a divine talent!"

Li Tianzong excitedly lifted Li Hao high into the air, spinning him around several times before gently setting him down. Then, he turned to the instructor, "Did you see that? Did you see that?!"

The instructor, suppressing his own astonishment, quickly responded respectfully, "Congratulations, Master. Young Master Ten's swordsmanship talent is truly exceptional, destined for greatness, potentially reaching the level of a Sword Saint!"

"Not a Sword Saint, a Sword God!"

Li Tianzong exclaimed excitedly, "Sword Saints in their childhood weren't this intelligent. If they could reach the Dexterous level after a single glance, it would be considered remarkable. But my son achieved perfection directly!"

The instructor pondered for a moment, acknowledging the truth in Li Tianzong's words. He was even more amazed and offered his congratulations again.

"Such swordsmanship talent, combined with my son's innate abilities, haha, in ten years, he will surely become famous throughout the land!"

Li Tianzong laughed, his voice echoing through the entire area.

The Li family's direct and collateral descendants in the distance also witnessed the scene, stunned into silence.

They didn't find Li Tianzong's boastful laughter exaggerated. After all, the child's performance just now was truly frightening!

"Little Ten!"

The nine sons of the Green Lotus Courtyard surrounded him, filled with awe and excitement.

Li Tianzong smiled, "From now on, Little Ten will cultivate here. You all must take good care of him."

"Mm."

They all nodded, then began examining Li Hao as if searching for lice, touching and inspecting him from head to toe.

Li Hao felt slightly helpless. These idle moments were the very times he wanted to skip. He needed to focus on cultivation.

Li Tianzong gave the instructor a few more instructions before leaving to attend to his military affairs.

After he left, Li Hao continued training with the instructor.

However, after realizing that the instructor's teachings were quite basic, Li Hao chose to skip ahead.

Spending his conscious time cultivating here was pointless. He might as well earn artistic experience.

Coming to the martial arts field to train was merely a prelude to his later display of strength.

...

Time flowed.

After entering the martial arts field at the age of six, Li Hao truly began to shine, embarking on his cultivation path.

The numerous cultivation techniques he had previously collected could finally be practiced. He practiced all the body refinement techniques countless times, his flesh and blood strength surging, his cultivation rapidly increasing, reaching the Tenth Level of the Through Force realm, then breaking through continuously until he reached the Perfection stage of the Heavenly Cycle realm!

He had cultivated to the limit of the Heavenly Cycle realm with his own physical strength. His single arm alone possessed over 300,000 jin of force!

Li Hao knew this wasn't his limit.

He invested another 2 Artistic Skill points to upgrade his Body Dao from Stage 4 to Stage 6.

The various body refinement techniques were re-examined, undergoing changes, their grades and levels rising. Furthermore, due to the increase in Dao realm insights and the absorption of inspiration from numerous techniques, he deduced seven or eight powerful new techniques.

After practicing these, Li Hao's physical strength increased again, breaking through the bottleneck of the Soul Succession realm. He used his physical body to communicate with the power of Heaven and Earth, condensing his true soul, able to internally examine his meridians, his will radiating outwards like a divine blade!

His eyes were like cold, divine lightning, his consciousness strength surging. Even if he didn't sleep for a month, he could remain energetic and refreshed!

At this point, his strength had reached over 900,000 jin, nearing the limit of the Through Force realm at a million jin, about to touch the state of divine strength.

Unfortunately, the body refinement techniques in the Listening Rain Tower were fewer than those he had previously obtained, lacking the brutal body refinement methods of the demon race.

Those body refinement methods were suitable for demons, crude and savage, providing a tremendous boost to physical strength.

Li Hao had 3 remaining Artistic Skill points, which he used entirely on the Imperial Dao.

For this cultivation session, Li Hao planned to focus on Body Dao and Imperial Dao, with Sword Dao and Body Techniques as secondary priorities. Any remaining Artistic Skill points would then be used on Fist Dao.

Fist techniques greatly enhanced arm strength, and strong arm strength also helped with swordsmanship and attack power. However, with insufficient Artistic Skill points, it had to be trained last.

Li Hao came to the Listening Rain Tower to collect various meridian-opening and Qi-circulation methods.

At the same time, he took the opportunity to look for Li Xiaoran, to see if he had any demon cultivation techniques.

Although Li Xiaoran didn't know what Li Hao was doing, seeing that Li Hao, at only six years old, was exuding the aura of the Heavenly Cycle realm in front of him, he was stunned.

Although he was re-cultivating, his previous cultivation insights were sealed, and re-cultivating wasn't a smooth process. It was like starting from scratch.

However, his thinking was now more mature, his understanding of martial arts deeper, and he could make a more rational cultivation plan.

"How did you cultivate so fast?" he couldn't help but ask.

Li Hao smiled, "Maybe I'm just naturally talented."

Li Xiaoran was speechless.

He had also heard about Li Hao's talent, the Transcend Saint aptitude, a legendary level of talent. No wonder he was so extraordinary.

"It seems you truly are the hope of our Li family."

Li Xiaoran sighed softly.

Hearing him suddenly say this, Li Hao was slightly stunned, but shook his head without saying anything.

Li Xiaoran found a locked shelf on the sixth floor, rummaged through the bottom layer, and took out three demon cultivation techniques, handing them to Li Hao:

"These are all demon cultivation techniques. We can't cultivate them. Our physical structures and meridians are different. Besides using them as martial arts references and understanding the demons, they're not very useful."

Li Hao didn't say much, and began to carefully examine them.

Soon, all three techniques were recorded in his panel, and after being transformed by his Body Dao, they were changed into cultivation techniques suitable for humans.

"Thank you."

Li Hao expressed his gratitude and returned the techniques to Li Xiaoran.

Li Xiaoran saw that Li Hao was only looking at them and didn't say anything.

After all, Li Hao had reached the Three Immortals realm outside the Death River. Perhaps looking at these techniques in advance would be helpful when he reached the Heaven and Man realm here in the future.

Li Hao bid farewell to Li Xiaoran and continued his own cultivation.

The three demon cultivation techniques made his physical body as solid as gold, imbued with unimaginable strength.

Li Hao found the chess records he had previously obtained in the Listening Rain Tower, using the Myriad Transformations Chess Record as a cover to avoid being too shocking.

Although his previously displayed talent was already legendary, and his cultivation speed was beyond imagination, it was still considered normal. But it couldn't be too far beyond the norm.

At only six years old, if he directly revealed a million jin of divine strength, he would be considered a monster!

It wouldn't be shock, it would be terror!

Seven years old.

After Li Hao embarked on his cultivation path for a year, which was actually sped up by Li Hao's time jumps, only about ten days had passed in reality.

In the martial arts field, everyone gathered.

Today was the martial arts field's sparring competition, also a test of the progress of each disciple's cultivation.

Bang!

A nine-year-old child, his physical strength erupting, wielded a long spear, knocking away another boy with a sturdy build.

The other boy was at least thirteen or fourteen years old, but in front of the nine-year-old, he was utterly defeated.

"Well done! Well done!"

Li Tianzong also came to watch, seated with Chen Hefang, a fruit plate and pastries placed between them.

Li Tianzong cheered and applauded loudly, without any pretense.

On the stage, the nine-year-old Li Junye, already possessing a vigorous aura, turned his head when he heard his father's cheers, a hint of a smile on his lips. Then, he continued, "Li Tian, come and fight!"

"Fight then fight!"

A boy from the audience stepped forward, appearing to be around the same age as the one who had just been defeated, but with a straight posture, holding a battle blade.

At the instructor's signal, the two engaged in a fierce battle.

Li Tianzong watched with relish, smiling, "Junye, this child is truly extraordinary. At only nine years old, he has reached the Perfection stage of the Heavenly Cycle realm, and he has also opened up the Yin and Yang meridians!"

"His Yang meridian is innate, and he opened up the Yin meridian himself. His talent is truly rare."

Chen Hefang nodded with a smile, "The instructor said that whatever he teaches him, he understands immediately, and can master it after just one try!"

Li Tianzong laughed, picked up a pastry and ate it, his gaze falling on the pastry. He exclaimed, "Little Ten's skills are getting better and better."

Chen Hefang also took a bite. Hearing this, she couldn't help but glance at the child sitting on the steps nearby, sighing helplessly, "This child, although his talent is unparalleled, he spends a lot of time on other things."

Li Tianzong laughed, "What does it matter? Little Ten's martial arts haven't fallen behind. I heard he cultivates in the martial arts field every day. He can grasp whatever the instructor teaches him with a single glance. True geniuses don't follow the usual path. We shouldn't interfere too much."

Chen Hefang sighed, "I'm just worried about you. You have a heavy burden on your shoulders. The demons outside Dragon City are watching. If these children can grow up sooner, they can share some of your burden."

"Eliminating those demons is my responsibility as their father. How can I place the burden on the children?"

Li Tianzong waved his hand, his expression becoming slightly serious, "Those demons have invaded repeatedly. When I break through in my cultivation, I will try my best to resolve this battlefield in my generation. The children's future, and the demons they will face, I can't add to their burden."

Chen Hefang looked at him, her eyes filled with tenderness, "Don't work too hard."

Li Tianzong patted her hand, smiling gently, "The children are still here. Eat some pastries."

Chen Hefang, however, had lost her appetite.

At this moment, a loud collision sound came from the stage. It was clear that the battle had been decided.

The nine-year-old Li Junye had won.

But his victory wasn't easy. He had several gray footprints on his body, looking slightly disheveled, his Qi and blood not flowing smoothly. This battle had pushed him to his limits.

His opponent, however, spat out blood and flew off the stage.

"Good!"

Seeing this, Li Tianzong cheered loudly again.

The other Li family disciples were also shocked. The direct descendants of the Li family were truly one more abnormal than the last, each capable of easily defeating their collateral counterparts.

"Ninth Brother, well done!"

The other eight cheered for Li Junye.

"Ninth Brother, amazing."

On the sidelines, sitting beside Li Hao, Li Hongzhuang, now four years old, also waved her pink fists, cheering for Li Junye in a childish, clear voice.

Li Junye didn't step down but looked around, seeing Li Hao in the audience, and smiled, "Tenth Brother, it's your turn to take the stage."

Hearing this, Li Hao didn't intend to yield or hide. He planned to reveal a little of his cultivation in this battle, otherwise, if he revealed too much later, it would be too bizarre.

He popped a peanut into his mouth, then clapped his hands and stood up, "I'm coming."

As he spoke, he stepped forward, lightly leaping onto the stage.

Seeing Li Hao's agile movements, many were stunned. His agility was definitely not bad.

Li Tianzong was startled, then burst into laughter, "Look, Little Ten's cultivation is at least at the Perfection stage of the Through Force realm!"

Seeing this, Chen Hefang also breathed a sigh of relief, "It seems that although he plays around on a daily basis, his cultivation hasn't fallen behind. Moreover, after only one year of cultivation, his progress is slightly stronger than Junye's!"

"Little Ten has the Transcend Saint aptitude. Even if he cultivates casually, he can easily surpass others." Li Tianzong chuckled.

At this time, Li Hao had already landed on the stage. Li Junye looked at Li Hao, his eyes shining, "Tenth Brother, it seems your cultivation is quite good!"

"It's alright."

Li Hao smiled.

"I'll hold back a bit."

Li Junye said, then began to regulate his breath, smoothing out his Qi.

Li Hao said, "Ninth Brother, just use your full strength. I can handle it."

Since he intended to reveal a little, Li Hao didn't hold back. His words were quite straightforward.

Hearing Li Hao's words, Li Junye was startled, then burst into laughter, "Then let's try it out!"

With that, he kicked off the ground with his toes, sending his long spear flying, stabbing towards Li Hao with a ferocious attack.

Li Hao, however, stood still, not dodging or avoiding.

Seeing that the spear was about to hit him, Li Junye's expression changed slightly, and he flicked the spearhead, attempting to change direction, worried about hurting Li Hao. But Li Hao simply raised his hand and grabbed the spearhead, then with a flick of his arm, the force of the tremor traveled through the shaft, causing Li Junye's palm to bear a tremendous force.

But he stubbornly refused to let go, resulting in his tiger's mouth splitting before he finally released the spear.

Li Hao casually flicked his wrist, the spear's tail acting like a club, striking Li Junye's waist and abdomen.

He slightly restrained his force, sweeping him back several steps.

Li Junye stumbled backward, his Qi and blood surging. After finally regaining his composure, he looked at Li Hao in shock.

Li Hao looked at this dazzling genius in the arena. Putting aside his words, he was the most outstanding prodigy the Li family had seen in centuries.

"Tenth Brother, your strength..." Li Junye was a little stunned.

"Ninth Brother, I yield!"

Li Hao flicked a finger, sending the spear back to him.

Li Junye caught it, his eyes filled with shock. Since he began cultivating, he had always been the best among his peers. Today, however, he was defeated for the first time by someone his age, someone who was two years younger than him!

"Such powerful strength!"

Li Tianzong saw it all clearly from below. This victory was beautifully executed. It seemed effortless, but it was actually a display of extreme strength and gentle force, easily defeating Li Junye.

"This child, has he also reached the Perfection stage of the Heavenly Cycle realm?" Chen Hefang widened her eyes slightly.

After only one year of cultivation, was the legendary aptitude truly this terrifying?

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 203: Inheriting the True Dragon

"Perhaps it's even more than that!"

Li Tianzong, with his sharper eye and piercing gaze, perceived a sense of effortless ease in Li Hao's movements. This was something that couldn't be achieved by a mere Zhoutian Realm practitioner.

"Even more?"

Chen Hefang was stunned, looking at Li Hao on the stage in disbelief. The child was only seven years old!

At that moment, Li Hao had effortlessly defeated the radiant Li Junye, and the power he displayed silenced the entire martial arts field.

The eldest brother, Li Xingbei, and the others were all astonished as they watched their youngest brother. They never imagined he possessed such formidable strength. They had initially believed Li Junye was already incredibly powerful, but who knew that the youngest, Li Hao, would rise so explosively on his path of cultivation, even surpassing Little Nine!

"After only a year of cultivation, he's already on par with three or four years of our training!"

"Little Nine can be surpassed? This is outrageous!"

Everyone was shocked, but they all knew that Li Hao had displayed extraordinary talent during his Foundation Establishment and Blood Refinement stages. His bone assessment results were legendary. While shocked, they quickly composed themselves.

"Interesting. Let me try my hand as well."

Li Tiangang leaped onto the stage, casually picking up a battle blade. He addressed Li Hao, "Tenth Brother, let's spar."

Li Hao furrowed his brows slightly but didn't refuse, simply nodding:

"Please."

Li Tiangang was three years older than Li Junye. Now twelve years old, nearing adolescence, his cultivation had reached the peak of the Soul Inheritance Realm, and his talent was exceptional.

"I'll hold back," Li Tiangang snorted.

He had always felt a subtle discomfort towards Li Hao, unlike his other brothers.

He always felt that Tenth Brother seemed to treat him differently from the others, with a certain coldness. Yet, he couldn't recall ever offending him.

Li Hao remained silent, standing still.

Li Tiangang didn't waste any more words. He suddenly lunged forward, his Soul Essence surging within him. The blade's light, bright as thunder, swept out horizontally.

Li Hao's posture was the same as when he faced Li Junye earlier, standing motionless, neither dodging nor evading.

Just as the blade neared, he raised his hand, pinching the blade's edge with two fingers, immobilizing it.

Li Tiangang was taken aback, staring at Li Hao in astonishment.

Li Hao, however, twisted his fingers, then flicked them against the blade's surface. With a loud bang, the blade vibrated and fell from his grasp, flying away.

Li Tiangang's wrist trembled, the immense force sending him reeling back several steps. He looked at Li Hao with a bewildered expression.

"This kid."

Li Tianzong's eyes shone even brighter. Li Hao was actually able to defeat Seventh Brother, which surprised him. What pleased him even more was that Li Hao had won so easily, indicating that he was far more powerful than he had imagined!

"How is this possible…"

Li Tiangang regained his composure, staring blankly at his fallen battle blade. He had been cultivating for six years, yet he was defeated by Li Hao, who had only been cultivating for one?

He had thought that Li Junye's talent was like a ferocious tiger, catching up to them older brothers. But Tenth Brother was pursuing even more aggressively, catching up and even surpassing them in just one year!

"Tenth Brother's strength is incredible. He might be nearing the Divine Travel Realm!"

"Seventh Brother underestimated him earlier and didn't use his full strength. But Tenth Brother's performance is still amazing."

"To cultivate to this level in just one year? Who would believe it?"

The other Li family youths were all shocked.

Li Xingbei and Li Fengping stood together, whispering to each other, their expressions grave. They felt a sense of urgency from Li Hao.

Perhaps in a few more years, this kid would surpass them.

"So impressive!"

The other illegitimate children were also shaken, gazing at the seven-year-old child on the stage. In the martial arts field, his age placed him near the bottom, yet he was the most dazzling figure at the moment, standing on the stage as if invincible.

"I'll take him on!"

Suddenly, a figure leaped from the crowd, an illegitimate youth.

His eyes were sharp as he stared at Li Hao, suspecting that Li Tianzong's brothers were putting on a show, deliberately exaggerating the young master's status.

Otherwise, how could he be so extraordinary after only a year of cultivation?

"Please."

Li Hao didn't refuse anyone. He only intended to display the strength of the Soul Inheritance Realm. After all, reaching the Soul Inheritance Realm in one year should be the limit of what they could comprehend, right?

But with his level 6 Physical Dao, even the power of the Soul Inheritance Realm, Li Hao's control over his body and his application of strength far surpassed these individuals. He could even handle a Divine Travel Realm practitioner.

This youth was fourteen years old, also at the peak of the Soul Inheritance Realm. He didn't hold back, immediately slashing his sword at Li Hao.

Bang!

Li Hao casually grabbed the sword's edge, then flicked his wrist, sending the youth reeling back.

The youth's face was filled with shock, but he didn't step down. Instead, he suddenly unleashed his Soul Essence. A phantom appeared behind him, its eyes like those of a ghost god, staring at Li Hao with a powerful oppressive aura.

This was the intimidation of the Soul Inheritance Realm.

But Li Hao's expression remained calm, unfazed.

The youth merged with his Soul Essence, his power surging. He roared and swung his sword again.

Li Hao, however, lightly stepped back, avoiding the powerful strike. Then, he raised his hand and delivered a gentle push, pressing against the youth's chest. With a bang, he sent the youth and his sword flying dozens of meters off the stage.

The youth landed with a thud, scrambling to his feet. As he looked at Li Hao, his face was filled with shock and a hint of shame.

Facing Li Hao, who had only been cultivating for a year, he had unleashed his full power and still lost.

Moreover, he could feel that when he fell off the stage, Li Hao's seemingly earth-shattering palm had landed gently, not truly intending to harm him.

The youth's heart was filled with mixed emotions. He bowed slightly to Li Hao without saying anything further.

He had lost, but he had lost with conviction.

Seeing this, Li Tianzong couldn't help but laugh, his admiration growing. From that palm strike, he saw the compassion of a strong individual.

The world is full of injustice. When strong individuals rise against the tide and climb to the peak, they often forget their initial intentions, their hearts becoming numb and callous.

However, as the saying goes, "You can see a person's character at three years old." Li Hao, without any guidance, possessed the compassion of a strong individual. It was innate!

The more he observed, the more satisfied he became, his mood soaring.

"Amazing, amazing!"

Upon witnessing this, Li Xingbei and the others were also happy for Li Hao, their faces breaking into smiles.

The other illegitimate children, seeing their smiles, their faces changed, a mixture of shock, anger, and resentment, but mostly jealousy.

One after another, people stepped onto the stage, hoping to dampen the arrogance of this direct descendant prodigy, but they were all easily defeated by Li Hao.

"So powerful, defeating all his kin at the age of seven, invincible in the Soul Inheritance Realm!"

"This is a direct descendant, a legendary talent!"

The crowd in the martial arts field was awestruck, deeply remembering the child's figure.

Li Hao, sensing that he had made his point, turned and jumped off the stage.

"Brother is amazing."

Little Hongzhuang, from somewhere, had picked a small red flower and handed it to Li Hao, "For Brother."

Li Hao smiled and placed the flower in her hair:

"Keep it and play with it."

Then, he glanced at Li Tianzong and his wife, seeing satisfaction mixed with surprise in their smiles. He felt a sense of comfort.

He smiled, then sat on the steps, thought for a moment, and continued to accelerate.

…

…

Li Hao's progress in Mohe River was incredibly fast.

He would ponder over Art Skills during his conscious moments, skipping over most of his daily life, only pausing at crucial moments.

Since showcasing his extraordinary strength at the age of seven, Li Hao's reputation had spread throughout the General's Mansion. When people talked about the Qinglian Courtyard, they would inevitably mention the youngest master, Li Hao.

What people discussed most was the young master's many peculiar hobbies besides cultivation.

Some saw him frequently sneaking into the kitchen, tinkering with the cooks and learning how to cook. Others saw him playing the qin and drawing in the courtyard, like a carefree young master from a wealthy family, unique and shrouded in a mysterious aura, prompting people to delve deeper into his nature.

This time, Li Hao's Soul Inheritance was once again through Heaven and Earth.

His bones and muscles were like divine iron, his strength formidable. Enduring the infusion of power during the Heaven and Earth Soul Inheritance was easier than before.

Li Tianzong wanted to take Li Hao to the ancestral temple for his Soul Inheritance. Upon learning that Li Hao had already undergone it and through Heaven and Earth, he was shocked and overjoyed.

From the ancient martial arts texts of the Li family, he knew what Heaven and Earth Soul Inheritance signified. It was a talent comparable to that of ancient saints!

"Excellent, excellent, truly worthy of being my son!"

"You will surpass your ancestors!"

Li Tianzong was extremely fond of Li Hao.

Li Hao handed two small figurines carved from level 3 Carving Dao to his father.

One male, one female.

Li Tianzong saw that the figurines were exquisitely carved. Instead of anger, he laughed, "You've been putting your mind to this, haven't you? It's truly well-carved. My son is intelligent."

"You've put a lot of thought into this, haven't you?"

Chen Hefang, upon receiving the gift, was also overjoyed, but then her expression turned to one of concern, "Your parents know you're filial, but you should focus your energy on martial arts. Don't let these things waste your time."

"Yes." Li Hao nodded.

Li Tianzong waved his hand with a smile, "Alright, alright. It's just Little Ten's way of showing his affection. Don't say such depressing things."

Chen Hefang thought the same. Stroking the carved figurines, her brow was adorned with a joyful smile.

Li Hao, seeing the harmonious atmosphere, seized the opportunity, "Father, can I go see the Demonic King imprisoned in the mansion? I want to carve a Demonic King."

"Carve a Demonic King?"

Li Tianzong was somewhat surprised, questioning, "You like carving so much?"

"Not really, I just want to see the Demonic King."

Li Hao lied through his teeth.

Li Tianzong pondered for a moment, "It's not impossible, but your current strength isn't enough. At least wait until you reach the Fifteen Mile Realm. Then I'll let you see it. Otherwise, a single glance from the Demonic King, and you wouldn't be able to withstand it."

"Deal!"

Li Hao couldn't help but show his excitement.

With a Demonic King, his Carving Dao and Painting Dao could both improve rapidly.

"When has your father ever lied to you?" Li Tianzong laughed heartily.

Time flew by.

At the age of eight, Li Hao's Cooking reached the peak of level 3, and his Imperial Dao broke through the level 3 bottleneck. He used his Art Skill points to raise it to level 6 in one go, causing a surge in his cultivation.

He combined various Meridian Opening methods, further increasing the number of major meridians opened in his body.

He also collected numerous Mind Refinement and Object Control methods in Listening Rain Tower, his cultivation continuously breaking through, surpassing the Divine Travel Realm and entering the Fifteen Mile Realm.

Eight years old, Fifteen Mile Realm.

In the martial arts field's disciple assessment, Li Hao once again displayed his astonishing strength, easily defeating numerous Li family disciples.

Li Junye, after a year of hard cultivation, sparred with Li Hao and discovered that the gap had widened even further.

Li Tiangang,不服, challenged again, only to be defeated in a single move.

The older Third Brother, Li Jianming, couldn't hold back any longer. He unleashed his Object Control power, but Li Hao countered with even more formidable Object Control power, defeating him.

This revelation of his Fifteen Mile Realm cultivation once again shook the General's Mansion and spread throughout Dragon City.

Such an astonishing cultivation speed filled Li Tianzong and his wife with both shock and joy, their smiles wide.

That year's Qinglian Courtyard New Year's Eve dinner was prepared by Li Hao himself.

It happened that the time point he jumped to was New Year's Eve, so he proposed the idea and received Li Tianzong's approval.

"Excellent cooking skills!"

"Little Ten's culinary skills are truly remarkable. I think they're no worse than those of the famous chefs in the grand restaurants."

"Tsk tsk, my son is truly a master of both martial arts and literature, proficient in everything."

"What virtue and ability do I, Li Tianzong, possess to deserve such a son…"

At the dinner table, Li Tianzong was unusually tipsy, his speech slightly slurred.

Chen Hefang rolled her eyes at him, "Little Ten is indeed outstanding, but the other children are not bad either. You can't just praise Little Ten."

"Of course, they're all my good sons." Li Tianzong laughed heartily.

Chen Hefang looked at her other sons, a gentle smile on her face, her voice soft, "You don't need to compare yourselves to Little Ten. You all have your own brilliance, and your mother can see it."

The other sons' eyes flickered, touched by her words. The eldest, Li Xingbei, smiled, "We wouldn't be jealous of Tenth Brother. The more outstanding he is, the happier we are."

"That's right, Tenth Brother cultivates so fast. When he surpasses us in the future, I can slack off a bit." Li Fengping laughed.

"Tenth Brother is my goal. It gives me more motivation to cultivate." Li Junye said with a smile. He was now eleven years old, with a hint of youthful handsomeness.

When the New Year's Eve dinner ended, Li Hao watched as the lively atmosphere subsided, leaving only empty plates. He smiled, paused for a moment, and then accelerated to the next period of time.

Not long after Li Hao displayed his astonishing talent, another Demonic King infiltrated the General's Mansion to attack, but Li Tianzong and Li Xiaoran detected it and killed it before it could do any harm.

Li Xiaoran, upon learning of Li Hao's cultivation progress, was shocked. Recultivating, and he could progress this quickly?

He suddenly understood why Li Hao was already at the Three Immortals Realm at the age of fifteen.

And he could even briefly clash with a Demonic King at the Absolute Skill Realm. This talent was truly monstrously unimaginable!

After the second Demonic attack on the General's Mansion, Li Tianzong kept Li Hao close to him, occasionally teaching him military strategy.

At the same time, Li Hao would take advantage of his free time while studying military strategy to compose poetry, play the qin, and paint.

He seemed casual, but his artistic experience continued to accumulate, and his skills improved rapidly.

Li Tianzong didn't stop him. Li Hao's cultivation speed was already enough to satisfy him. If it were another child, he might have been stricter, but Li Hao was exceptionally sensible and knew his limits. He was completely at ease with him and wasn't worried that he would neglect his martial arts.

After all, at eight years old and in the Fifteen Mile Realm, he had shattered the cultivation records of the Great Yu Dynasty, and thoroughly so.

Given that, what reason was there to prevent the child from doing what he enjoyed?

Under Li Tianzong's permissive approach, Li Hao's Art Skill points accumulated at an accelerated pace.

As his cultivation increased, he discovered that the restrictions of Mohe River's rules on him seemed to be easing. He found it easier to delve into various Art Skills.

The Dao Realm insights he had gained gradually leaked out, subtly influencing his current progress, leading to even faster advancement.

Numerous arts easily reached level 3, accumulating over twenty Art Skill points.

With an abundance of Art Skill points, Li Hao collected more cultivation techniques, delving into and deducing them, hoping to open up Heaven and Earth Meridians here.

Heaven and Earth Meridians greatly enhanced the body, like a foundation.

But the cultivation techniques in Listening Rain Tower were limited, so Li Hao explained his needs to Li Tianzong.

Li Tianzong, upon hearing Li Hao's words, didn't hesitate. He immediately sent someone to invite the Heavenly Mechanism Tower to borrow their supreme techniques.

Furthermore, he wrote letters to other General's Mansions, requesting cultivation techniques. He also planned to suppress a few unruly martial arts sects, raid their homes, and confiscate a batch of cultivation techniques to replenish Listening Rain Tower.

While the main map of Mohe River was Dragon City, Li Xiaoran had mentioned that outside Dragon City lay the Demonic forces.

But many of the special rules within Dragon City were influenced by Li Tianzong, and Li Tianzong's obsession encompassed the entire Great Yu Dynasty.

Therefore, although many forces within the Great Yu Dynasty didn't exist in Mohe River, Li Tianzong could temporarily create them if needed.

Just like the Qingqiu Mountain Daoist who assessed Li Hao's bones, he came from Qingqiu Mountain.

But there was no Qingqiu Mountain outside Dragon City.

Perhaps after leaving the General's Mansion, they would disappear and dissipate in some inconspicuous place. That was Mohe River.

With the talent Li Hao had displayed, he was practically granted every wish in the General's Mansion, a darling of heaven.

Under Li Tianzong's all-out support, Li Hao's improvement was rapid. With the integration of numerous cultivation techniques, his Meridian Opening had reached over 100, with only a few remaining to be opened.

Mind Refinement and Object Control had also improved significantly.

Learning that Li Hao liked famous paintings and Go records, Li Tianzong also sent people to search for them and brought some back.

At the age of nine, Li Hao successfully entered the Heaven and Man Realm. He filled his chest with the numerous cultivation techniques he had collected and questioned the Grand Masters of Heaven and Earth, once again shaking the General's Mansion.

This time, entering the Grand Master Realm was smoother than before because he had collected more cultivation techniques and his knowledge was more extensive.

That year, Li Hao's strength completely surpassed the nine sons of the Li family. Even Li Xingbei, who was twenty-seven years old and had already entered the Three Immortals Realm, Li Hao was confident he could contend with.

However, this older brother was exceptionally kind to him, so he didn't truly defeat him in a confrontation, breaking his Dao Heart.

Besides martial arts, Li Hao displayed extraordinary intelligence in military strategy, etiquette, and the arts of the qin, chess, calligraphy, and painting.

Li Tianzong was already completely satisfied with Li Hao. At the age of ten, he proposed to prematurely determine the True Dragon.

The True Dragon, besides leading the General's Mansion in the future, would also receive the assistance of the ancestors in the ancestral temple, further enhancing their potential and greatly aiding their cultivation.

This news caused another sensation.

The General's Mansion was filled with guests. Li Tianzong also took Li Hao to meet these noble families, giving them the opportunity to forge connections with Li Hao, paving the way for his future.

But this was Mohe River. Once they cleared the level, everything would vanish, making it meaningless. Li Hao naturally didn't spend time on it, skipping ahead directly.

With repeated accelerations, Li Hao's control over time jumps became more precise.

He jumped to the end of the banquet, when the guests had dispersed. Li Tianzong took Li Hao's hand and led him to the Li family's ancestral temple.

The selection of the True Dragon was over. Li Hao had won the position without any dispute. The other nine sons of the Li family had no objections, and the other direct and illegitimate descendants in the other courtyards knew of Li Hao's talent and didn't dare to compete.

Gazing at the ancestral temple ahead, Li Hao knew that Li Tianzong was bringing him here for the ancestors to take a look and, incidentally, to help him refine his Soul Essence.

However, with the level of refinement he had already achieved, the help the ancestors could provide was extremely limited.

Nevertheless, Li Hao didn't refuse the position of True Dragon this time. Firstly, he couldn't find a reason to refuse. Secondly, this was Mohe River, and he needed to seize every opportunity to grow.

After all, Candlelight God and Lu Yuan had also come here. Mohe River was a Youdu-level realm, extremely dangerous. The stronger he was, the better his chances of survival.

Inside the ancestral temple, Li Hao saw a middle-aged man sitting cross-legged in a corner of the square.

He looked somewhat similar to Fifth Master Li Qingzheng, but he exuded a fierce aura, unlike the peaceful old man Li Hao had seen.

"Fifth Brother."

Li Tianzong greeted him with a smile.

Li Qingzheng glanced at him but didn't respond, simply muttering, "You've certainly produced a fine son."

"Haha, you wouldn't marry a wife when I suggested it." Li Tianzong laughed.

"My life is one of solitude, stained with too much blood. I won't bring misfortune to my descendants." Li Qingzheng snorted coldly.

(End of Chapter)

Chapter 204: The Initial Apex

"We shed blood to prevent the common people from shedding blood. Don't spout nonsense about a lonely life."

Li Tianzong said impatiently.

Then, he addressed Li Hao, "Call him Fifth Uncle. Remember, when you've achieved something, if your father is no longer around, you must take care of your Fifth Uncle and treat him as you would me."

Li Hao nodded, "I understand."

The clear voice reached Li Qingzheng's ears, causing him to turn his head slightly. When he caught sight of Li Hao's delicate and handsome face and saw that Li Hao was also looking at him, his expression became slightly unnatural.

He snorted and turned away. "Go inside quickly. Stop chatting with your son."

Li Tianzong smiled and led Li Hao into the ancestral shrine.

Inside the shrine, Li Hao looked at the numerous memorial tablets, finding them almost identical to his memories.

To inherit the True Dragon, one must first take an oath of allegiance.

Li Hao had previously asked Li Xiaoran about this oath. It was only binding within the Mortal River and wouldn't carry over to the outside world. The only things that could be taken out were the time spent and memories made here.

Therefore, any understanding of martial arts gained here or any self-created or deduced cultivation techniques could be taken with him.

At this moment, Li Tianzong brought Li Hao before the ancestral tablets to take the oath.

To pledge allegiance to the Li family until death, to defend the Li family, and to lead the Li family forward.

Li Hao repeated every word of the oath Li Tianzong taught him verbatim. To clear the Mortal River, he had to complete the main mission, assisting Li Tianzong in defending Dragon City.

Therefore, the oath included things like not harming Li family members, which posed no problem for Li Hao.

Once the oath was completed, the ancestral tablets emitted a divine light. Li Tianzong then exited the shrine, leaving Li Hao inside to receive the ancestral blessing.

Li Hao had previously established his soul with Heaven and Earth, refining his Soul Aspect 360 times, reaching the limit and condensing a Heavenly and Earthly Dharma Aspect of the Apex.

Now, the ancestral divine light swirled around Li Hao, once again strengthening his bones, blood, and soul.

It reforged each of his realms, surpassing the limits imposed by cultivating top-grade techniques.

Through this ancestral refinement, the True Dragons of the Li family could rival, and even surpass, the Crown Princes of the Imperial Family at the same level.

Only the Crown Prince chosen by the Imperial Family, who received special inheritance, could potentially surpass the True Dragons of the Five Divine General's Mansions.

"Hm? Such a powerful physique!"

"This child's body is like iron. Has he entered the Dao through body tempering?"

The Li family ancestors surrounding Li Hao were astonished as they strengthened his bones.

Li Hao's entire skeletal structure radiated divine light, unlike ordinary bones. Even after their refinement, they might not be able to achieve such a physique.

And Li Hao had cultivated to this level on his own, which was simply incredible.

As the ancestral power infused him, Li Hao felt his body become limp, his blood seemingly flowing with the golden brilliance of divine essence. It was incredibly comfortable, like thousands of tiny hands massaging his muscles and meridians.

"This Soul Aspect…"

Soon, the Li family ancestors saw Li Hao's Soul Aspect, contained within his inner consciousness, like a colossal divine spirit, and were shocked.

"This is a Heavenly and Earthly Dharma Aspect, the legendary Ancient Saint Soul!"

The first ancestor, Li Tianyuan, exclaimed in awe.

The other ancestors were also astonished, looking at Li Hao in disbelief.

The entire ancestral shrine trembled.

Then, they quickly whispered and discussed, finally deciding to try and refine it further.

But Li Hao's Heavenly and Earthly Dharma Aspect was too vast and dense. They erupted with golden light, expending a tremendous amount of soul power, but still couldn't refine it further.

"Could it be that his Dharma Aspect has already reached its limit?"

One ancestor questioned.

Li Tianyuan shook his head, his expression grave. "It doesn't seem like it. I can feel our power seeping in, being absorbed by him. However, our power is too little. He seems to have reached a bottleneck that needs to be broken."

"If that's the case, let's try again."

After a brief exchange, the ancestors quickly made a decision and attempted to refine it once more.

With the eruption of divine light, the entire ancestral shrine was filled with golden-red radiance. All the ancestors unleashed a tremendous amount of mental power.

Li Hao felt the power enveloping him become several times stronger than before.

Li Hao was slightly stunned. In his understanding, his Heavenly and Earthly Dharma Aspect, refined 360 times, had reached its limit. Yet, the ancestors said it could be broken further?

He suddenly thought of the Divine Power state. A million jin of strength was the condition for activation, but his physical strength could still increase.

At the time, he had suspected that this Apex might not be the limit.

It turned out to be true.

However, what was the true limit beyond the Heavenly and Earthly Dharma Aspect?

And after the Land Immortal Realm, could one reach an even more extreme level?

Could it be true ascension to Immortality?

While Li Hao pondered, the divine light completely bathed him. The ancestors surrounding him lost some of their mental power, their golden light fading, but their expressions were mostly resolute and calm as they infused his Dharma Aspect with power.

Suddenly, Li Hao felt his Dharma Aspect tremble slightly. Then, his Soul Refinement count reached 361.

It was only a single increase, but Li Hao felt as if a certain bottleneck had been broken. A surge of power poured in, gathering from Heaven and Earth and all directions, giving him a sense of his Dharma Aspect merging with the world.

Li Hao immersed himself in this sensation. Only now did he truly understand the power of the Heavenly and Earthly Dharma Aspect. It wasn't just a boost in strength, but the ability to draw in more power. If combined with the Heavenly and Earthly Meridians, it would unleash several times more combat power.

When Li Hao opened his eyes, he saw that the golden light on many of the ancestral spirits had dimmed, with only a few still shining brightly, but even they were much weaker than before.

"Child, this is all we can do."

Ancestor Li Tianyuan said to Li Hao in a gentle voice, "If we continue to open up your potential, we might all burn out and still not be able to fill you."

"But it's alright. You've already far surpassed your peers and stepped onto a broader stage. In the future, if you cultivate other top-tier soul refinement techniques, you'll be able to refine it to a higher level on your own."

Seeing his weakened state, Li Hao sighed inwardly and nodded. "I understand."

"We've used all our strength to refine your soul, but it's only had a tenth of the desired effect. If you cultivate on your own, it will be much easier. This is just the beginning." Another ancestor said.

"The future of the Li family rests on your shoulders."

The other ancestors also spoke, their mental power greatly diminished, but their voices were still steady and strong.

"I will do my best to defend Dragon City."

Li Hao said softly.

The ancestors didn't say much more. They continued to strengthen Li Hao's Divine Travel Realm and Fifteen Li Realm, but the enhancement was limited.

Including the bone strengthening of the All-Power Realm, only adding ten thousand jin of strength to Li Hao.

The blessings bestowed upon the True Dragon were incredibly significant for ordinary people, but for Li Hao, if he could find more cultivation techniques, he could accumulate more power.

The biggest gain this time was that Li Hao learned that the 360-time Heavenly and Earthly Dharma Aspect wasn't the limit. He also realized that the Apex he had previously opened was merely the Initial Apex.

However, this so-called initial stage was something that only a handful of individuals throughout the centuries-long history of the Great Yu Dynasty had been able to touch.

And not every realm could reach the Initial Apex.

…

With the inheritance of the True Dragon, Li Hao gained more freedom, and his needs became the top priority of the Li family.

Li Tianzong found numerous cultivation techniques for Li Hao, allowing his cultivation to progress rapidly.

Li Hao no longer went to the martial arts arena, only cultivating in his own courtyard.

He spent his days cooking and painting, his skills rapidly improving.

With the absorption of numerous cultivation techniques, all the major meridians in Li Hao's body were opened, 108 meridians plus the Yin and Yang meridians, opening up the Heavenly and Earthly Meridians for him.

His Soul Tempering and Object Control techniques were also enhanced. If he could safely leave the Mortal River, Li Hao's Divine Travel Realm and Fifteen Li Realm would also be further enhanced, as the cultivation memories gained here could be taken with him.

At eleven years old, Li Hao successfully entered the Grandmaster Apex, becoming a Land Immortal.

With the Heavenly and Earthly Meridians and the Ascension to Immortality, Li Hao attempted to manipulate the rules, and the results were indeed positive. Some of his past cultivation memories leaked out, giving Li Hao a sense of déjà vu during his daily cultivation, as if he had experienced it before.

This greatly aided his understanding of mental states.

Currently, Li Hao was focusing on the Culinary Dao's entry into the Spirit Realm.

He had to successfully enter the Spirit Realm before the age of eighteen to reach the Three Immortal Realm.

As Li Hao grew rapidly, the demon beasts outside Dragon City became increasingly restless.

The harmonious and joyful atmosphere within the Divine General's Mansion gradually diminished. During most dinners, Li Tianzong would stare at maps and military books, lost in thought, without noticing that his food had gone cold.

Li Xingbei, the eldest, Li Fengping, the second, and the others were also on active duty in Dragon City, guarding the city walls.

When they occasionally returned, they were mostly filled with a murderous aura, having undoubtedly stained themselves with blood.

As the others grew older, they left the Green Lotus Courtyard one by one, some to venture out into the world, others to guard Dragon City. The Green Lotus Courtyard became increasingly empty.

Li Hongzhuang was nine years old, her bone assessment revealing a Ninth-Rank Battle Body, a top-tier talent.

However, Li Tianzong, seeing his only daughter, didn't make her practice martial arts. Instead, he wanted her to live a normal life as a daughter, to marry and live a peaceful life.

While martial arts could protect her, they also prevented her from living a peaceful life.

For example, if a border city was in danger, if she didn't practice martial arts, she wouldn't feel compelled to go and help.

Once you enter the path of martial arts, right and wrong become inextricably linked.

Li Hao understood Li Tianzong's intentions. Looking at Li Hongzhuang, who had nearly died defending the Heavenly Gate Pass, he knew that if she hadn't practiced martial arts, she would have had a much more comfortable life.

With the Li family's wealth and status, her husband's family wouldn't dare to mistreat her. At least, she could enjoy a peaceful and affluent life.

However, the Li Hongzhuang here was embroidering, while the Li Hongzhuang outside had already picked up a sword and gone to war. Perhaps this was the destiny of the Li family bloodline.

Li Hao didn't know what Li Hongzhuang's early childhood was like outside, but he guessed it was probably similar to this. She had once embroidered and practiced needlework like a noble lady, but everything was shattered by the invasion of demon beasts and the successive deaths of the Li family's nine sons.

Li Hao took a deep breath. He knew that as he continued to grow, the repetition of history would soon arrive here.

At thirteen years old, Li Hao's Culinary Dao entered the Spirit Realm.

The strength of his own cultivation lessened the Mortal River's influence on him, and the sense of déjà vu helped him successfully achieve entry into the Spirit Realm.

With the addition of points, Li Hao also entered the Three Immortal Realm. Such rapid growth brought joy to Li Tianzong, whose temples had begun to gray in the past two years, and the wrinkles on his brow lessened.

Li Hao also took the opportunity to request permission to go outside Dragon City to slay demon beasts.

He had discussed it with Li Xiaoran. If his growth was fast enough, he could reduce the number of demon beasts in advance, lessening the pressure when it came time to defend Dragon City.

Li Tianzong hesitated, but Li Xiaoran stepped in, saying that he would secretly protect Li Hao. Seeing this, Li Tianzong agreed, entrusting the Rain Listening Pavilion to the third brother, Li Xuanyin, for the time being.

Li Xiaoran had now found his Dao Heart and reached the Dao Heart Realm. Looking at Li Hao, who had entered the Three Immortal Realm at thirteen, he couldn't help but smile wryly. Li Hao's cultivation progress here seemed faster than it had been outside.

But here, Li Hao still had to sleep, skipping through a lot of time.

They had only been here for less than a month in total.

"Now that you're helping, we can deal with the demon beasts hidden within the city first." Li Xiaoran said.

At this point, Li Hao's strength was not much different from his original self outside the Mortal River.

Li Hao had no objections. This familiar feeling of power gave him a sense of security.

Besides preemptively hunting down demon kings to alleviate the pressure during the defense of Dragon City, Li Hao also wanted to use the bodies and precious blood of these demon kings to test the heretical technique he had deduced and cultivated.

The cultivation techniques he had comprehended here were slightly different from those outside. For example, Li Tianzong had written letters to borrow some unique techniques from other Divine General's Mansions, exchanging them for unique techniques from the Rain Listening Pavilion. This allowed Li Hao, relying on his seventh stage Flesh Dao, to deduce two unfamiliar techniques.

One was a technique to enhance the physique, and the other was a technique to refine the physique.

However, this physique refining technique was somewhat heretical and required a large amount of demon beast flesh and blood.

Li Hao took this opportunity to hunt demon beasts and cultivate.

As Li Hao walked out of the Divine General's Mansion, golden light gathered before him, forming the words of the Mortal River.

Activating the second side mission: Exploration.

Mission Completion Rate: 0%.

Li Hao was a little surprised, but then he thought about it. This seemed to be the first time he had left the Divine General's Mansion while awake.

He didn't know if he had left during the skipped time.

(End of Chapter)