Great Red Immortal Sect

Chapter 497 The Majesty of the Dragon Palace
Baitang.

With its vast expanse of blue waves and boundless sea, this pond stands majestically at the junction of the southeast and is considered a lower palace of the dragon.

There are no immortals nearby, only a few demon kings who obey the dragon's decree and act on his orders, occupying the border sea to guard it.

If you look out to sea at this time, the view is even more extraordinary.

The sea-patrolling yakshas raised their banners high, while the clam maidens attending them held cloud fans. Hundreds of aquatic demons thronged around, each holding a ritual implement, their precious lights gleaming, like flowing, colorful clouds spread across the blue water.

Then came a host of strange creatures that revealed their true forms to greet the emperor: tigers and dragons coiled around, hooked snakes appeared and disappeared, ray-like rays floated in the light, and seahorses leaped about in countless numbers. All the ceremonial regalia was arranged to the highest standard.

A road paved with azure sea jade stretches westward, and in the distance, one can see hundreds of purple and crimson lightning bolts slowly approaching from the horizon.

The person in charge was none other than the tortoise-faced man. At this moment, his face showed a mixture of tension and fear. He frequently scolded his servants, instructing them to prepare properly so as not to be impolite.

In his turbulent emotions, even the heavy tortoise shell behind him was stained with a deep black color, making him look like he was carrying a black pot.

Purple lightning, like dragons and snakes, tore through the sky, while inky thunderclouds, like sharp blades, pressed towards the border of Baitang, only to stop abruptly, displaying restraint and courtesy.

Immediately, from amidst the thick clouds of darkness, an ancient and majestic chariot slowly emerged and hovered in front of the road.

This chariot is cast entirely in bronze, with a magnificent and spacious design, resembling a palace. It is pulled by eight celestial horses riding on rainbow clouds, conveying a sense of freedom and a journey to the heavens.

A chilling purple lightning bolt coiled like a serpent above, while leaping thunder and fire condensed into a long whip, crackling and bursting with dazzling arcs of light. The car body was decorated with layers of relief carvings depicting the surging Milky Way, a dark swamp, and a dragon hidden in the clouds, perfectly reflecting the vastness of the universe.

An extremely powerful divine light emanated, and an overwhelming dragon's might swept across the sea, pressing down heavily on the hearts of the welcoming demons.

The one holding the reins and driving the chariot was a Qinghui demon general, a handsome young man with a spirited demeanor. His blue-gold cloud-patterned armor shone brightly in the lightning.

He tightened the reins, pulling the herd of celestial horses back.

Mo Xi, a prodigy of the Qinghui lineage, is the purest bloodline among the current Qinghui. His cultivation has already reached the late stage of Foundation Establishment, and he enjoys a great reputation in Tianchi.

He hovered the thunder chariot, straightened his armor, looked at the group of demons, found the tortoise-like leader, nodded slightly, and loudly gave the order:
"The Dragon King of the Netherworld has arrived at the Dragon Court of the Netherworld!"

His voice was clear and resonant, like the sound of metal and stone resonating. He used a bit of magic power, and in an instant, it spread throughout the sea. Countless aquatic creatures bowed their heads in submission, and a mountain-like roar echoed across the blue sea:
"Welcome, Your Majesty!"

Riding on white waves, the tortoise stood bowing before the steps of the thunder chariot, its long whiskers and shell trembling in the dragon's aura.
"The vast ocean and the fertile land share the same origin; the white pond and the heavenly pool share the same vein. We respectfully invite Your Majesty to move to the Haoyuan Water Palace—my lord has prepared a sumptuous feast and awaits you with open arms."

A majestic and steady voice, like a heavenly drum, came from the Thunder Chariot. It was as if the thunder was rolling, and the majestic voice was also accompanied by a hint of a smile.

"I have known the Dragon King Lanqing for a long time. Now that I have heard that he has achieved supernatural powers, I have prepared a small gift to congratulate him."

Mo Xi understood immediately and took out a small green wooden box from his sleeve. Although it was only an inch long, it exuded wisps of sharp golden essence from its cracks—it was the gold-exchange spiritual object, [Looking at the Golden Fiend Wind].

This item is of average value, but its strength lies in its purity. It can be directly absorbed into the lungs to perform the art of metal virtue.

Using this spiritual object as a congratulatory gift was a decision Xu Xuan made after careful consideration. The earth-elemental objects obtained from the Stone Man Path were mostly averse to water, while this Dao of Gold could be nourished by water.

The tortoise-like figure tucked the jade box into his sleeve. The golden light was so dazzling that it almost blinded his already small eyes. He bowed respectfully.

"I am grateful for Your Majesty's gift. Please proceed slowly and enter the palace along the way. I need to preside over affairs here and cannot escort you. There are other demons to guide you."

After speaking, he looked to his side and gestured slightly. The waves parted, and a white-scaled dragon snake emerged. It had a demonic head and a human body, and wore a spotless plain silk palace robe. It was a late-stage Foundation Establishment cultivator who cultivated the Gui Water.

The white dragon walked to within seven steps of the thunder chariot, placed its front claws on the sea, and performed a strange and grand salute, its body arched like a shrimp, its smile fawning.

"I am Yijiang, a demon general of the Water Palace. I am ordered to greet the king. Please come with me into the palace."

Silence reigned within the thunder chariot. The white dragon named Yijiang felt a pang of anxiety and hurriedly peered at Moxi's expression, only to see the young blue dragon's eyes darken, uttering just two words:
"Lead the way."

"This humble demon obeys."

The river dragon spun rapidly, its scales gleaming, and hurriedly swam to the front of the carriage to lead the way. Although its face was solemn, it couldn't contain its secret joy.

A mixed-blooded dragon like him could not even step onto the jade steps in front of the Guanghai Palace, let alone pay homage to the Lanqing Dragon King in the Haoyuan Water Palace.

Today, I've actually managed to pave the way for another Purple Mansion Dragon King. Even if I only absorb a trace of the scattered dragon energy, it's still a tremendous benefit. To put it bluntly, even if a pure-blooded dragon were to urinate on him, it would be a top-tier elixir.

Xu Xuan quietly observed this scene from the depths of the Thunder Chariot, his fingers tapping lightly beneath his purple robe, lost in thought.

Although Yijiang is a dragon-snake, it doesn't seem to have a high status. It's quite surprising that it can be so easily driven around by the tortoise.

'Dragons are inherently lewd; if it weren't for their difficulty in producing offspring, who knows how many bizarre and grotesque creatures they would create. These demons mixed with dragon blood would probably only be slaves and servants.'

Even a lowly servant in the Dragon Palace of the sea could dominate a region on the riverbank. Although Yijiang is extremely humble, he is still incredibly arrogant in front of other aquatic creatures.

The Thunder Chariot moved slowly through the waves, following the path formed by the mysterious light of the vast water. Purple lightning dissipated, turning the surrounding seawater into thunderous liquid and creating a rolling sound of heaven.

Beneath the abyss, the Haoyuan Water Palace stands majestically, ancient and mysterious, much like a celestial abode.

The entire palace was azure, with rooms built of lapis lazuli and beams of white jade. Pearls the size of human heads were inlaid on the ceiling, their radiance shimmering and illuminating the surroundings.

The azure waters coalesced into a shimmering avenue, leading straight to the Dragon Palace. The Thunder Chariot moved slowly along the waterway, with Yijiang respectfully leading the way, occasionally issuing low shouts to command the aquatic creatures on both sides to stand at attention.

Along the waterway, jagged stone peaks and exquisite palaces stand in disarray, among which are shadowy figures of demons who have come to pay homage. They belong to the rule of the Azure Sea Dragon King, and even great demons of the Purple Mansion can be seen standing respectfully outside the gate, not allowed to enter without permission.

'This is the weather pattern of the East Sea Dragon genus.'

Xu Xuan peered through the Thunder Chariot at the scene outside the palace, his heart filled with turmoil.

The most powerful force among demons in the world today is none other than the East Sea Dragon Palace, with two Dragon Lords in charge, one of whom is the [Yuan Han] Dragon Lord, who is at the late Golden Core stage.

Not to mention that dragons have long lifespans and possess the world's top-tier grotto-heaven, the Great Ruins Sea, with its profound heritage. It is home to countless dragon kings at the late or even peak Purple Mansion stage, and countless wondrous magical artifacts and ancient treasures.

If it weren't for the difficulty in having offspring, the entire world would probably have become the private property of the dragons.

On a sea peak ahead, a dark, mysterious light of Ren water suddenly surged, emanating a powerful divine aura. It was sensed that the Thunder Chariot was approaching and there seemed to be some fluctuation.

Xu Xuan's spiritual sense swept across the area and saw a Purple Mansion Demon King coiled in the silver palace atop the peak. He cultivated the Ren Water element and had just mastered a divine power, offering a gift outside the palace.

This demon had sharp, knife-like eyebrows, a menacing aura, and a towering, imposing figure. He wore a long, dark robe embroidered with images of a whale sinking into a gorge and clouds falling into the sea, and he peered out furtively.

It was Chong Mang, the demon king of the Youjing lineage, who was in the early stage of the Purple Mansion realm! He was drinking and making merry in the palace, mingling with several clam maidens, when he suddenly saw a lightning chariot with purple currents flowing past outside the palace. His eyes flashed with a sharp light, and he hurriedly threw down his wine cup, stepped out on the waves, and stood directly in front of the lightning chariot!

"You blind fool—"

Yijiang was filled with shock and anger. He wanted to curse loudly and was about to drive away this madman who dared to block the Dragon King's presence. However, when he saw that the person who came was a great demon queen of the Purple Mansion, his scales tightened, and the second half of his curse was stuck in his throat.

"Greetings, Dragon King of the Netherworld!"

The monster's hasty approach sent a chill down Xu Xuan's spine.

In the past, the Youjing clan occupied Tianchi and encroached on blessed lands, but they had no goodwill towards the Dragon Court.

Over the years, Youjing has repeatedly tried to curry favor, wanting to stay around Tianchi. It even offered spiritual objects, but was turned away and couldn't even catch a glimpse of Xu Xuan.

He still remembered that this lineage had no goodwill towards Mingze, harming merfolk, killing aquatic creatures, and even deserting during the battle with the Stone Man Dao, breaking the tacit agreement between the two sides and having the intention of taking advantage of the situation, which made them detestable.

"What kind of demon comes here?"

Lei Che's tone was cold and indifferent, revealing no emotion whatsoever, as if the Youjing lineage had never been of any interest to him.

Chongmang felt a chill run down his spine, but considering that this might be his only chance to meet the Dragon King, he suppressed his fear and, with a thick skin, bowed respectfully again:
"Your humble servant Chongmang once accompanied Your Majesty on a campaign against the Stone Men. I wonder if Your Majesty still remembers him?"

"So it is you." The voice from inside the chariot suddenly turned cold, revealing a hint of disgust. "Why are you blocking my carriage?"

Chongmang hurriedly lowered his body, almost kowtowing on the water-lit avenue:
"My Youjing also belongs to the Ren Water category. There are only two methods in our clan, and we have always used Blood Qi Demon Art to make up for them. At most, we can only cultivate to the middle stage of Purple Mansion before our path is cut off."

"We humbly beg Your Majesty to grant us your permission to take our people under your wing. We are willing to serve the Dragon Court and hope to continue our journey forward."

Xu Xuan's mind stirred slightly. He had once witnessed Yun Cang using his abilities to activate an ancient blood artifact, whose power was specifically designed to counter the Earth-based Dharma Body.

The demon king at the mid-stage of the Purple Mansion realm had indeed only revealed two Ren Water divine abilities: [Annihilation and Severance] and [Calming the Storm]. Therefore, it seems the last one was achieved by replenishing with blood qi.

"I see." The voice inside the chariot seemed thoughtful. "Since your brother's path to immortality was severed, what kind of blood qi cultivation method did he practice?"

"Your Majesty, it is the [Original Blood Pact], which has the wonder of obtaining a pact and making a vow from blood and qi, just like the great vows of Buddhism and Taoism."

"How much blood and energy did you, Youjing, consume to cultivate this method?" Xu Xuan's voice suddenly changed, like a cold wind, with purple current swirling beside the carriage.

Chong Mang paused for a moment, but quickly recovered and replied:

"I, Youjing, am ultimately a member of the aquatic race. How dare I slaughter my own kind? I only sought blood offerings in the Southern Witch Kingdom and harvested about 100,000 mortals. I would never dare to defile Your Majesty's throne!"

'He deserves to die.'

A chilling killing intent rose in Xu Xuan's heart. This Youjing was truly despicable. Now that it had exposed this shameful affair to him, it still wanted to enter the court. It was simply wishful thinking.

"get out."

His indifferent voice startled Chongmang below, who dared not linger any longer and could only slink away, retreating back into the silver palace.

Deep within the distant water palace, a familiar aura of divine punishment suddenly rose—it was the Heavenly Tribulation, a divine power of thunder!
This supernatural power has the authority to control heavenly tribulations and determine crimes and punishments. At this moment, an extremely hidden aura of tribulation and punishment quietly descended and wrapped around Chongmang's body, but the Youjing was completely unaware of it.

Xu Xuan was immediately filled with doubt, but he remained outwardly calm, simply ordering them to continue forward while he pondered to himself:

'How did She Lei Zifu end up in this water palace?'

The Thunder Chariot continued towards the Dragon Palace. After the earlier commotion, the Demon General Yijiang looked even more terrified. He had already cursed the Youjing's ancestors for eighteen generations in his heart, fearing that the Dragon King behind him would take his anger out on him.

Fortunately, the car remained completely silent, and there was no indication of any attempt to hold anyone accountable.

The journey continued without further incident, until finally arriving at the magnificent jade dragon gate of the Water Palace, where golden carp leaped on both sides, their radiance shimmering.

Xu Xuan stepped down from the Thunder Chariot, while Yi Jiang bowed and retreated behind him, leading Mo Xi to drive the Thunder Chariot to the side hall to wait.

He walked slowly along the jade path, and the clam maidens standing on both sides bowed their heads and prostrated themselves, their pearls shining brightly, their calls never ceasing. After a while, he arrived at the main hall, where he was surrounded by flowing blue water.

On the main seat, a man dressed in a white robe with wave-patterned patterns smiled and looked over. He had wooden horns and white scales, and his demeanor was profound and imposing. He rose to greet him and laughed loudly:

"We have been waiting for you, my dear kin. Please take a seat! Now, we are only missing the Golden Crow to complete the gathering."

There was no water in the hall, just like on the shore. The divine light flowed endlessly, and the most dazzling thing was a bright red true fire. Its light was like a wheel, hanging in mid-air, with the meaning of dispelling cold and dampness and strengthening the body.

Beneath the True Fire Treasure Wheel sat a woman in a bright red palace dress, exuding a noble air and possessing a face as radiant as the morning sun. She was gazing at Xu Xuan with a hint of a smile on her lips.

However, the terrifying true fire power contained within her body made Xu Xuan's heart tremble slightly.

'Late stage of the Purple Mansion realm.'

Following the brilliance of the true fire, another scrutinizing gaze was cast upon him. Silver-white lightning flickered, and a familiar aura of tribulation permeated the air, drawing Xu Xuan's attention.

Seated on a side seat was a young man with deep-set eyes and silver pupils like lightning. Black scales were faintly visible on his wrists, and he wore a robe with dark ink and lightning patterns. A black iron thunder mace hung at his waist—its surface was a mix of black and white, with ever-changing patterns, carrying a vast and mighty heavenly aura.

Mo Qilin!
Xu Xuan's mind trembled slightly as his gaze collided with that of the ink-black youth. In an instant, invisible purple lightning and silver thunderbolts struck each other in the air, bursting forth with brilliance before dissipating in a flash.

But then the young man in the black robe smiled calmly:
"This is the Dragon King of the Netherworld? My father and Lord Yanghu of the Dragon Court are old friends. Now that I have seen the noble blood of the Netherworld, my wish has been fulfilled."

Dongfang Lanqing, seated at the head of the table, seemed oblivious. Upon hearing the mention of the Yanghu Dragon Prince, a barely perceptible hint of embarrassment crossed her face. She coughed lightly, looked outside, and asked:
"Prime Minister Gui, why hasn't Senior Lin Zhou arrived yet? Has any news been sent?"

The tortoise-shaped figure rushed out from outside the hall, holding a golden book in his hands, and respectfully said:
"Your Majesty, news has come from the cave that he is on his way from the Western Sea, but some matters have delayed him, and he may not be able to attend the banquet as scheduled. He will be quite late, and we say there is no need to wait for him."

"pity."

Dongfang Lanqing's expression hardened slightly; he seemed to have not expected such a turn of events. However, the woman in the palace dress sitting below him chuckled lightly:
"Yang Linzhou is quite a busy man. Lanqing, today is a joyous occasion for you. Where is your father?"

The atmosphere in the main hall suddenly turned cold. Dongfang Lanqing simply smiled and said:

"My father has other matters to attend to and has entered the sea realm. Now, the Hanming lineage is being managed by the old master."

"Let's set aside these matters. Today should be a joyous occasion. We, the descendants of the Great Sage, may never have the chance to gather like this again. So many immortal spirits have already perished."

(End of this chapter)