Immortality and cultivation begin with full comprehension.

Chapter 809 Tianlan Alliance, Imperial Capital of Huangze (Seeking Monthly Tickets)
Li Yunjing slowly opened his eyes, the lightning patterns in his eyes gradually disappeared, and the thunderous aura that filled the quiet room also subsided.

The tiny array patterns that spontaneously condensed at his fingertips seemed to be guided by an invisible force, quietly disappearing into the void.

"This formation is profound and cannot be quickly mastered by one person alone."

He muttered to himself, having already made his decision.

With a thought, an invisible wave emanated from the "Divine Firmament Cloud Palace," precisely reaching the minds of the two hundred Supreme Elders within the sect.

A quarter of an hour later, two hundred powerful yet restrained auras appeared outside the Cloud Palace.

Apart from the Nascent Soul Realm cultivators stationed outside, these Supreme Elders represent the true foundation of the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect".

Li Yunjing sat upright on the cloud bed, his gaze sweeping over the assembled pillars of the sect below.

These Supreme Elders are all highly skilled in cultivation. The weakest among them is at the second level of the Nascent Soul stage, and more than ten of them have already reached the Great Perfection of the Nascent Soul stage, just one step away from becoming a Deity.

Of course, this last step is incredibly difficult.

In Li Yunjing's view, although these dozen or so people are already very close to becoming Nascent Soul cultivators, their chances are still slim!

"Everyone!"

He got straight to the point, “The ‘Nine Heavens Demon-Subduing Immortal Formation’ bestowed by our patriarch is extremely profound and requires the combined efforts of many to comprehend. The reason I have gathered you all here today is to practice this formation first.”

He raised his hand and waved it, and a vast star map immediately appeared in the quiet room, with the phantom images of 360 celestial banners flowing within it.

"This formation requires 360 people, each holding a banner, to be arranged according to the positions of the stars in the heavens."

"Among them, the nine main banner positions are particularly crucial, requiring the nine individuals with the highest cultivation levels to hold them."

The elders gazed intently and saw that the nine main stars in the star chart were exceptionally bright, corresponding to the nine major star positions: Greed Wolf, Giant Gate, Prosperity, Literary Star, Honest Star, Martial Star, Broken Army, Left Assistant, and Right Assistant.

"Senior Brother Ming Lingchuan!"

Li Yunjing said, “You are in charge of the Greedy Wolf position, and your main role is to attack and defeat the enemy.”

"Accept the decree!"

Former sect leader, Supreme Ming Lingchuan, bowed and accepted the order.

As each name was called out, the nine main banner positions were quickly assigned.

"The other Supreme Elders are assigned to auxiliary star positions according to their cultivation attributes."

Li Yunjing continued to make arrangements, "Within three days, you must memorize the changes in your respective star positions and the key points of the formation operation."

"What's missing now?"

Li Cangqiong frowned and asked, "Our sect has difficulty gathering 365 Nascent Soul Realm cultivators."

“I am well aware of this as well.”

Li Yunjing nodded, "We can only make arrangements as best we can. The rest can be filled by either having elders at the peak of the Golden Core realm within the sect or by finding cultivators within the alliance."

"However, I prefer not to inform our allies until we have a complete grasp of the situation."

After listening to Li Yunjing's explanation, everyone suddenly understood and nodded in agreement.

This is already the best solution.

Cultivating a Nascent Soul Realm True Person is not easy; within a few decades, the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect" simply cannot produce twenty or thirty such individuals!
In addition to this immortal array, other places also need to be led by real people. The actual shortage of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" even reached more than four hundred!

This is still the most conservative estimate!
At the Nascent Soul stage, there are only four great masters: Xuanzhenjun, Jiuxiaozhenjun, Wuxingzhenjun, and Shenfengzhenjun!
This number is still far too weak compared to the top forces on "Tianlan Star".

“I know what you are thinking.”

Li Yunjing's gaze swept over everyone present, his expression solemn: "It is difficult to achieve the Nascent Soul stage, and even more difficult to achieve the Divine Transformation stage; this is the way of Heaven. However, with the great calamity before us, we can only do our utmost."

"Of the 365 array points, 108 require Nascent Soul cultivators to be stationed, while the rest can be temporarily managed by Golden Core Peak cultivators."

"Other elders can serve as substitutes. If there are any casualties in battle, others can make up for them, so that the formation will not fail."

He raised his hand and pointed, and a detailed array diagram appeared on the star map: "Although the power is halved, this effect is still sufficient to operate."

Master Lei Ze pondered for a moment and said, "Sect Leader, if we ask our allies for help..."

"No."

Li Yunjing shook his head, "The Immortal Array is our sect's greatest trump card, and it must not be revealed before it is completed. Besides..."

A sharp glint flashed in his eyes. "Human hearts are unpredictable."

Everyone was silent.

Indeed, under the threat of celestial-level demons, it's hard to guarantee that some forces won't secretly side with them.

Once the "Nine Heavens Demon-Suppressing Immortal Array" is revealed, and the Heavenly Demon Army discovers its weakness, then the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect" will lose its greatest trump card.

It's important to understand that in any situation, internal problems are more likely to cause problems than external pressures.

Especially this biggest secret!
Apart from those present, even the elders and true disciples below dare not easily reveal this information!

"Our most urgent task is to first master the operation of the immortal array."

Li Yunjing made a decision: "Within three months, everyone must master the changes in their respective formations. In the future, we will find an opportunity to go to the 'Ten Thousand Demon Tower' for a real-world practice session!"

Everyone nodded.

Li Yunjing looked at the four Nascent Soul True Monarchs: "The four senior uncles need to sit in the four corners of the formation, and at that time they will also need to divide their minds to take charge of the overall situation."

Xuanzhenjun stroked his beard and nodded: "That is the way it should be."

In the days that followed, the Shenxiao Dao Sect entered an unprecedentedly busy period.

All the Nascent Soul cultivators practiced their formations day and night, and the entire sect was constantly illuminated by lightning and the stars.

Li Yunjing even brought a group of grandmasters from the "Seven Star Palace" to personally guide him. His understanding of immortal formations far surpassed that of others, and he could often pinpoint the key points with just a few words.

"The Wenqu position needs to activate talent, and it should complement the Wuqu position with a balance of strength and gentleness..."

"The left and right assistants should support each other like a pair of horns; they should not exert their strength alone..."

He moved around the training ground, constantly adjusting the formation.

Time flies, and three months have passed in the blink of an eye.

The lightning and celestial phenomena above the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" have become increasingly frequent, sometimes even appearing in broad daylight, causing much discussion among the surrounding cultivators. However, the sect has always brushed it off by saying that they are "practicing a newly acquired lightning technique."

On this day, in the martial arts arena deep within the sect's secret realm, starlight shone brightly in all 365 directions.

With Li Yunjing in charge of the central command, four Nascent Soul True Monarchs guarding the four directions, and nine Nascent Soul cultivators including Ming Lingchuan holding the main banner, one hundred and eight Nascent Soul cultivators and two hundred and fifty-three Golden Core Peak Elders each taking their positions.

The remaining ninety-two Nascent Soul Realm cultivators were not useless either. They were all substitutes, and in the event of casualties among the main force, they could quickly take over their positions to ensure the power of the "Nine Heavens Demon-Suppressing Immortal Formation".

Although the sect used a clever trick, the Golden Core elders, whose magical power was slightly inferior, were able to subtly connect with the Nascent Soul cultivators under the formation, forming a seamless whole.

"All the stars in the heavens, heed my command!"

Li Yunjing stood at the heart of the formation, his voice like thunder.

"Nine Heavens Divine Thunder, ward off demons and protect the righteous path!"

The crowd responded in unison, their voices resounding through the heavens.

"Crash!"

In an instant, the illusory images of 365 Zhou Tian Star Banners lit up simultaneously, drawing upon the power of the stars in the sky.

Nine bolts of lightning, as thick as pillars of heaven, struck down from the void and poured into the nine main banner positions.

The entire training ground seemed to transform into a thunderous pool and a starry sea, where the raging thunder power flowed gently under the control of the formation, sometimes transforming into a sharp sword to slay demons and monsters, and sometimes into a protective light screen for all living beings.

Although the power of the array was indeed only half of the complete version, as Li Yunjing said, because some of the array's key points were temporarily taken over by Golden Core cultivators, its vast heavenly might still terrified all those involved in setting up the array.

"Such power... is comparable to a strike from a fully-fledged Nascent Soul cultivator!"

Xuanzhenjun couldn't help but exclaim in amazement.

"If all of them were controlled by Nascent Soul cultivators..."

A blazing light flashed in the eyes of the Nine Heavens True Lord.

"Slaying a Void Returner is not an illusion!"

Divine Phoenix True Lord continued.

"This is without the 'Ten Thousand Demon Tower'; if we add the array base..."

The Five Elements True Lord muttered to himself.

The four True Lords were all amazed by this immortal formation!
Absolutely amazing!
"This is the life-saving formation that our ancestors gave us!"

Li Yunjing continued, "With this formation, I have even more confidence that our sect can overcome this great calamity!"

"Good! Everyone must keep up the good work until we fully comprehend the formation!"

Xuanzhenjun laughed loudly.

With hope in sight, even this Nascent Soul Realm True Monarch could not hide his joy.

The great calamity was terrifying, but with the attention of the ancestral master of the immortal realm, the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" had gained confidence.

The exercise lasted for seven days.

When the formation finally dissipated, all the participating cultivators collapsed to the ground, their spiritual energy almost completely exhausted, but their eyes were filled with excitement and shock.

The elders, all of whom had personally witnessed the terrifying power of this immortal formation, were present.

"Thank you for your hard work."

Although Li Yunjing's face was also pale, his eyes were bright: "From today onwards, all Golden Core Peak Elders will go into seclusion to break through to the Nascent Soul Realm, and the sect's resources will be supplied without limit!"

He then looked at the four Nascent Soul True Monarchs: "I ask you four senior uncles to continue overseeing the drills and ensure that the great formation operates as smoothly as your own arms."

After arranging the follow-up matters, Li Yunjing returned to the "Shenxiao Cloud Palace" alone.

He had just taken a moment to calm his mind when a communication jade talisman in his bosom suddenly vibrated.

It is the True Lord Huangze!
"Sect Leader Li, three years from now, the 'Tianlan Alliance' will organize its first meeting of representatives from various factions. We request that your sect send someone to accompany us."

A glint of light flashed in Li Yunjing's eyes.

The opportunity is coming!

He immediately replied: "I will personally lead the team."

The light of the communication jade talisman dimmed, and Li Yunjing gently tapped his knuckles on the cloud bed, lost in thought.

The invitation was personally extended by the Emperor Ze Zhenjun, who also set the location of the first alliance meeting on the mainland of the "Emperor Ze Dynasty," the meaning of which was self-evident.

This pillar of the dynasty intends to take advantage of this demonic calamity to establish the "Huangze Dynasty's" leadership position within the "Tianlan Alliance" and even the entire "Tianlan Star".

He had already learned about this matter during his first encounter with Emperor Huangze, and during this time, Emperor Huangze had been appearing on various other continents, clearly settling many forces, which had completely inflated his ambition.

However, this matter has nothing to do with Li Yunjing!

The power of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" is still too weak to compete with these behemoth top forces!
Forget about the position of Alliance Leader, but you can think about the higher-ups like Vice Alliance Leader or Supreme Elder.

The Divine Firmament Dao Sect will absolutely not allow itself to appear in a lower position!

"Who should I take this time...?"

A barely perceptible smile curved the corners of Li Yunjing's lips.

Although the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" inherited the legacy of its founder and possessed the trump card of the "Nine Heavens Demon-Controlling Immortal Array," it ultimately remained confined to a corner of the world, with its influence mainly limited to the "Southern Heaven Continent."

They're good at protecting themselves, but not good at expanding their own territory!
In order to gain more say in the future war, better integrate resources to deal with the demonic calamity, and even protect the current territory, he must personally go to the "Huangze Continent" this time to show the strength of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect".

Another reason is to make more friends!
There's an old saying that goes, "Better to die a fellow Daoist than a poor one!"
You want to find someone to take your place in the robbery?

You need to have friends first!
You don't know anyone, so who are you going to look for?

It seems that Li Yunjing doesn't have much time left; he must set off in a year!

The "Huangze Continent" is far away; one must cross the "Southern Sky Continent" and the "Luofu Continent" to reach the destination.

Getting to "Luofu Continent" is simple; one can use the Xiao family's ultra-long-distance teleportation array to enter the edge of "Luofu Continent".

Afterwards, by relying on the forces along the way and using teleportation repeatedly, one can reach the "Huangze Continent" within two years.

As for others disagreeing with borrowing the teleportation array?

This time, Li Yunjing not only led a large number of experts, but also had the endorsement of Emperor Huangze. Anyone who dared to obstruct him would not be able to pass the "Huangze Dynasty" test!
In this way, unlike the first time he took Zhao Qi and Su Muqing to the "Huangze Continent", there was no need to be careful at every step.

A year has passed in the blink of an eye.

During this year, the Shenxiao Dao Sect operated at full capacity.

Under Li Yunjing's guidance and with the massive resources poured in, three Golden Core Peak Elders who had been stuck at the bottleneck for many years actually succeeded in forming their Nascent Souls. Although they were only at the first level of the Nascent Soul stage, it still slightly enhanced the power of the "Nine Heavens Demon-Suppressing Immortal Array" and, more importantly, greatly boosted morale.

The entire sect had unwavering faith in the prestige and decisions of the sect leader.

On this day, the people setting off were ready in the sect square.

Li Yunjing stood in front of the teleportation array, with Qin Jiuxiao, the Five Elements True Monarch, and the ten core Supreme Elders, including Ming Lingchuan, behind him.

This team represents the highest-level travel lineup currently fielded by the "Shenxiao Daozong," demonstrating the extreme importance they attach to this alliance meeting.

"Set off."

Li Yunjing spoke calmly.

"As the sect leader commands!"

Everyone responded in unison.

The "Ultra-long Distance Teleportation Array" emitted a deep rumble of thunder, tearing through space and transforming into a streak of purple lightning, heading towards the incomparably distant "Luofu Continent".

The light from the ultra-long-distance teleportation array gradually faded, but the lingering echoes of spatial fluctuations still reverberated in the air.

Li Yunjing and his group had already appeared on a huge teleportation platform with a completely different style.

The platform is paved with warm, lustrous jade, and its surroundings are carved with intricate star patterns and family crests. It is the teleportation array built by the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" for the Xiao family.

The Xiao family's senior members, who had already received the news, were waiting here.

The leader was an elderly man in a brocade robe with a profound aura and a smiling face; he was none other than Xiao Xuan, the patriarch of the Xiao family.

Standing beside him were the family head, Xiao Yuntian, and several powerful elders of the Xiao family, including Xiao Han and others who had dealt with Li Yunjing before.

"Hahaha! The presence of Sect Leader Li and the esteemed experts of the Shenxiao Dao Sect is an honor to our Xiao family!"

Ancestor Xiao Xuan laughed loudly and warmly greeted them. His gaze swept over Li Yunjing and the Five Elements True Monarch, Qin Jiuxiao and others behind him, and he was secretly alarmed.

The lineup of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" this time was indeed extraordinary, with two Nascent Soul cultivators, ten Nascent Soul cultivators, and even Great Perfection cultivators. This force was enough to sweep across a region.

"Elder Xiao, you are too kind. I apologize for disturbing you so abruptly."

Li Yunjing returned the greeting with a cupped hand, his smile warm and his demeanor composed, displaying the air of a great sect leader.

Ancestor Xiao Xuan treated him well, once gifting him a fortuitous opportunity, and even joining forces with the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" to destroy the "Xuanbing Palace".

This is one of the important allies of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect".

"Sect Leader Li, what are you saying! Our two families are bound by an alliance of mutual support and assistance, how could you say you are bothering us!"

Xiao Xuan then exchanged pleasantries with the others, his smile widening as he stepped aside to lead the way, saying, "Since you have come from afar, please go to the reception hall to rest for a while. I have already ordered people to prepare spiritual tea and immortal fruits."

The group left the teleportation platform and headed to the magnificent mansion located in the center of the city.

Along the way, Li Yunjing could clearly feel the immense power of the Xiao family.

The city was teeming with cultivators, many of whom possessed formidable auras. The layout of the buildings subtly incorporated formations, clearly indicating that the Xiao family had not been idle in recent years.

The news of the great calamity was no secret.

In order to overcome the tribulation, the Xiao family built "Zixiao City" into an impregnable fortress.

Inside the welcoming hall, the two sides took their seats as host and guest respectively.

Fragrant tea and spiritual fruits were served, and after some necessary pleasantries, the topic naturally turned to the upcoming "Tianlan Alliance" meeting.

"Sect Leader Li personally led the delegation to the 'Huangze Continent,' which demonstrates the importance your sect attaches to this alliance meeting."

Patriarch Xiao Yuntian took a sip of spiritual tea and said slowly, "Emperor Huangze is ambitious. This alliance meeting will likely be a fierce battle."

“What Patriarch Xiao says is absolutely right.”

"The 'Huangze Dynasty' is powerful and its desire to dominate the alliance is common knowledge."

"Top forces such as the Thirty-Six Grotto-Heavens, Luofu Dao Sect, Taixu Sword Sect, and Jiaye Baoguang Temple will probably not give up easily."

Li Yunjing nodded: "Neither my Shenxiao Dao Sect nor the Xiao family are among the top in the continent. If we want to protect our own interests and make our voices heard in this game, we will probably not succeed by fighting alone."

The meaning behind his words was quite clear.

A glint flashed in Xiao Yuntian's eyes as he put down his teacup: "What does Sect Leader Li mean?"

"Unity brings mutual benefit, while division brings mutual harm."

"I propose that my 'Shenxiao Dao Sect' and the Xiao family form a closer alliance in this meeting and in dealing with the future demonic calamity."

"We share intelligence, complement each other's resources, advance and retreat together in alliance discussions, and support each other."

Li Yunjing looked directly at Xiao Yuntian, his tone sincere yet powerful, "Only in this way can we avoid being manipulated by various forces and secure the rightful status and resources for our two families." The hall fell silent for a moment.

The elders of the Xiao family exchanged glances and communicated secretly via telepathy.

This proposal was not unexpected; we had even collaborated several times and established this connection. However, this was the first time we had discussed it so formally.

Clearly, the Shenxiao Dao Sect attaches great importance to the cooperation of this small alliance!
The hall was quiet for a moment. Patriarch Xiao Xuan and Patriarch Xiao Yuntian exchanged a glance, their eyes flashing with a sharp light.

They had long anticipated that one of Li Yunjing's purposes for this trip was to consolidate the alliance, and Li Yunjing's proposal of "advancing and retreating together, and providing mutual support" was exactly what the Xiao family needed at the moment.

Although the Xiao family is strong, on the entire chessboard of "Tianlan Star", they still appear weak and powerless when facing behemoths like the "Huangze Dynasty" and "Taixu Sword Sect" alone.

Deeply binding itself with the "Shenxiao Dao Sect," which possesses four Nascent Soul cultivators, enormous potential, and holds the strategic location of the "Ten Thousand Demon Tower," would undoubtedly be an excellent choice.

"Sect Leader Li is a man of few words, and he resonates with me deeply!"

"With the demonic calamity looming, we must set aside our differences and cooperate sincerely!"

"Your suggestion is exactly what my Xiao family wants!"

Ancestor Xiao Xuan stroked his beard and laughed heartily, his voice booming like a bell: "My Xiao family is willing to form a life-and-death alliance with the 'Divine Firmament Dao Sect' in this alliance meeting, to advance and retreat together, and to share both fortune and misfortune!"

"The ancestor's intention is the intention of the entire Xiao family."

Patriarch Xiao Yuntian nodded solemnly: "We can discuss the specific terms in detail, and we must ensure that our two families can occupy a favorable position in the alliance and win enough resources and a voice."

"it is good!"

Seeing the Xiao family agree so readily, Li Yunjing's smile widened even more: "With the strong support of the Xiao family's fellow Daoists, I feel even more confident!"

In the following period, key figures from both sides held more in-depth and specific consultations.

They reached a preliminary consensus on details such as how to support each other at the alliance meeting, recommend candidates for the alliance's senior leadership, strive for defense and resource quotas in key areas, and even how to coordinate operations in wartime.

With the alliance established, the atmosphere became increasingly harmonious and enthusiastic.

The Xiao family hosted a grand banquet to entertain Li Yunjing and his entourage.

The guests and hosts enjoyed themselves immensely, and their relationship seemed to have grown even closer amidst the clinking of glasses.

After the banquet, the Xiao family arranged for Li Yunjing and his entourage to rest in the guest courtyard, which had the richest spiritual energy, showing the utmost hospitality.

Li Yunjing and the others also stayed at the Xiao family's residence for three days.

Over the past three days, senior executives from both sides held several small-scale, private meetings to further refine the details of the cooperation.

Li Yunjing, the Nine Heavens True Lord, and the Five Elements True Lord also exchanged cultivation insights with Ancestor Xiao Xuan and Xiao Yuntian, and all of them felt that they had benefited greatly.

Three days later, everything was ready.

Beside the ultra-long-distance teleportation array in the core area of ​​the Xiao family, two groups of people gathered together.

One side was the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" team, led by Li Yunjing, including the Five Elements True Lord, Qin Jiuxiao, two Nascent Soul cultivators, and ten Nascent Soul elders such as Ming Lingchuan.

On the other side was the Xiao family delegation, led personally by Patriarch Xiao Xuan, consisting of family head Xiao Yuntian and three powerful elders whose cultivation was all above the seventh level of the Nascent Soul stage.

The fact that the Xiao family's patriarch personally took charge this time also demonstrated their extreme importance attached to the alliance and their determination to act together with the "Shenxiao Dao Sect".

Together, the two sides have three True Monarchs at the Nascent Soul stage and fifteen True Persons at the Infant stage. This lineup is not to be underestimated on the entire "Tianlan Star"!
"Sect Leader Li, everything is ready. We will need to use several teleportations to reach 'Welcoming Immortal City' on the outskirts of 'Huangze Continent'."

Ancestor Xiao Xuan said to Li Yunjing.

"Thank you for your trouble, Elder Xiao."

Li Yunjing bowed and expressed his gratitude.

"Since we are allies, there is no need for formalities."

Ancestor Xiao Xuan waved his hand, his expression turning serious. "This alliance meeting is a den of dragons and tigers, with forces from all sides gathering. It is the perfect time for our two families to join forces and make our mark! Let's go!"

"set off!"

Li Yunjing's head.

Without another word, the two sides stepped into the enormous teleportation array, which was shimmering with light and flowing runes.

The Supreme Elder of the Xiao family, who was in charge of manipulating the formation, cast a series of spells, and a vast amount of spiritual power was injected into the formation base from the top-grade spirit stones.

The teleportation array emitted a deafening hum, and a beam of light shot into the sky, engulfing everyone's figures.

The spatial forces fluctuated violently, and a strong sense of weightlessness came over me.

Once the light faded and the space stabilized, everyone had left the "Chang'an Dynasty" and appeared on a much grander, more heavily guarded giant teleportation platform.

This is also a powerful force in the "Luofu Continent".

After explaining their purpose and paying a huge teleportation fee, this force did not refuse the request from the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" and the Xiao family.

After five such teleportations, costing tens of thousands of top-grade spirit stones, they finally arrived at the "Huangze Continent"!
We've arrived at the other end of the teleportation array!

Surrounding the platform was not the bustling marketplace of an ordinary city, but rather a forest of imperial guards, clad in standard golden spirit armor, wielding menacing weapons, and all possessing an aura of at least the Golden Core stage.

They stood solemnly like statues, their eyes sharp as eagles, scanning everyone who stepped out of the teleportation array. An invisible aura of military might emanated from them, making everyone feel awe.

On the fluttering flag, the five-clawed golden dragon emblem, symbolizing the supreme authority of the "Huangze Dynasty," gleamed in the sunlight, as if it might take flight at any moment.

Clearly, "Yingxian City," as the last gateway to "Huangze Imperial Capital," had already entered a state of martial law at the highest level.

However, amidst this somber atmosphere, a unique team was quietly waiting beneath the teleportation platform.

The leader was a middle-aged cultivator with a fair complexion, no beard, and a profound aura, dressed in a magnificent marquis's robe. His cultivation level had reached the ninth level of the Nascent Soul stage.

Behind him followed two groups of well-dressed palace maids in formal attire, each holding a jade plate and incense burner, and palace guards with solemn expressions.

"Welcome Sect Master Li of the Shenxiao Dao Sect and Patriarch Xiao of the Luofu Xiao Family!"

Upon seeing Li Yunjing and his entourage appear, the marquis immediately put on a warm yet dignified smile, strode forward, and said loudly, "I have been waiting here for a long time on the orders of the Emperor!"

His voice was loud and clear, instantly breaking the solemnity of the scene and attracting everyone's attention.

Li Yunjing and Ancestor Xiao Xuan exchanged a glance, understanding each other perfectly.

Emperor Huangze truly gave them ample face, even sending a marquis to personally greet them. This level of protocol was befitting the reception of a leader of a dominant power on the continent.

"I am deeply grateful for your patience, Lord Marquis. I am unworthy of such praise."

Li Yunjing cupped his hands slightly, speaking in a calm tone.

"You're too kind, Lord Marquis. It's too kind of the Emperor to have you in mind."

Ancestor Xiao Xuan returned the greeting with a smile.

The others nodded in agreement, showing their respect for the host family.

"You are all honored guests of the Emperor, and the future pillars of our 'Tianlan Alliance'. How dare we be negligent?"

The marquis smiled and stepped aside to lead the way, "The Emperor has prepared a palace for you two and your fellow Daoists in the capital. Please follow me; the flying boat is ready."

Not far from the platform, hovered a royal flying ship, three thousand feet long, entirely made of sandalwood, adorned with dragons and phoenixes, and exuding unparalleled luxury.

Palace guards stood beside the boat, while maids stood with their hands at their sides on the boat.

Li Yunjing and Xiao Xuan Patriarch both nodded their thanks and, under the guidance of the Marquis, led their respective groups onto the royal flying ship.

The flying boat slowly ascended into the air, not lingering in "Welcoming Immortal City," but heading directly towards the magnificent city in the distance, shrouded in endless imperial dragon energy, "Huangze Imperial Capital."

Inside the flying boat, the decorations were luxurious yet elegant, and the spiritual fruits and fragrant teas were all of the finest quality.

The marquis sat beside him, chatting wittily, introducing the local customs and culture of the "Huangze Continent" and the current situation in the capital, without mentioning the alliance and game of strategy, appearing to be very discreet.

Through the porthole of the airship, you can look down at the scenery below.

The closer you get to the center, the more groups of cultivators you'll encounter.

The sky was ablaze with colorful lights, and all sorts of flying magical artifacts and spirit beast mounts were dazzling.

On the ground, countless cultivators, some riding in their escape lights and others in their carriages, surged toward the capital like rivers flowing into the sea.

The closer you get to the "Imperial Capital," the more you can feel the prosperity and strength of this land.

The area is dotted with spiritual mountains and rivers, dotted with numerous sects and towns, and teeming with cultivators, presenting a scene of great prosperity.

The capital city itself resembles an ancient golden dragon lying prostrate on the earth, with towering city walls reaching into the clouds, runes flashing on them, and the light of the restrictions appearing and disappearing, emanating a pressure that makes people's hearts tremble.

Deep within the imperial city, several unfathomable and vast auras rose and fell, undoubtedly representing the true foundation of the Huangze Dynasty.

Three hours later, the flying boat arrived above the capital. After a series of rigorous and swift array tests, it slowly landed in an area within the city specifically used to receive the highest-ranking delegations.

This place has pavilions, towers, palaces, and gardens, and its spiritual energy is even richer than that of the core areas of many major sects.

Two magnificent and spacious palaces were specifically allocated to the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" and the Xiao family for their use.

When the flying boat landed, a large number of court attendants and palace maids were already waiting in front of the palace.

"Sect Leader Li, Ancestor Xiao, this is the place the Emperor has prepared for you two to stay."

"If you need anything, just give the orders to these servants."

The Marquis smiled and introduced, “His Majesty has said that since you two have come from afar, please rest well today to relieve your travel fatigue. Tomorrow at 9:00 AM, His Majesty will host a banquet in the ‘Hall of Ten Thousand Emperors’ to welcome all the heroes from all sides. At that time, we will drink and chat together to discuss important matters.”

The arrangements were thoughtful and considerate, providing ample buffer time.

"Your Majesty's consideration is very thoughtful. Thank you, Lord Marquis."

Li Yunjing and Ancestor Xiao Xuan thanked him again.

"It is my duty, so I will not disturb your rest any longer. Farewell."

Having completed his mission, the Marquis bowed and took his leave, departing with his entourage.

Li Yunjing and Xiao Xuan Laozu exchanged another glance.

The Huangze Dynasty's reception was exceptionally warm and respectful, with impeccable etiquette.

But behind this grand gesture lies a strategy of courting, a display of strength, and also an invisible pressure.

"What a magnificent Emperor Huangze! What a magnificent Huangze Dynasty!"

Ancestor Xiao Xuan sighed in a voice transmission, his tone carrying a hint of solemnity.

"It's alright, let's see what he says at the banquet tomorrow."

Li Yunjing responded, his gaze calmly sweeping over the luxurious palace before him and the majestic imperial palace complex in the distance.

They come, the security.

Now that we've stepped into this place where fortunes converge, let's put on a good show!
At this moment, "Huangze Imperial Capital" was already packed with people.

Sects, families, and independent cultivators from all continents, seas, and secret realms of "Tianlan Star" gathered here.

Leaving aside mortals, there are at least nearly a hundred million immortals among them!

This is the central hub of "Tianlan Star", which is second only to "Canglan Continent"!
All the inns and cave dwellings in the city were already fully booked, and non-VIPs could only stay in the temporary cave dwelling area outside the city.

The air was filled with various powerful auras, and the figures of Nascent Soul cultivators were no longer uncommon. Occasionally, a few extremely obscure auras would flash by, suggesting that some old monsters had also been alerted and were secretly coming.

The largest square in the city, "Tianmeng Square," has been transformed into the main venue for the alliance meeting. High platforms stand tall, and banners flutter in the wind. The most eye-catching banner is naturally the golden dragon flag representing the "Huangze Dynasty."

Li Yunjing and his group only sensed the general situation outside with their divine senses and did not go out. Instead, they divided the area into the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" and the Xiao family's residence.

After both parties made their choices, they agreed on arrangements for tomorrow.

Li Yunjing then led the group from the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" into the palace on the left.

The interior of the palace was much more spacious than it appeared from the outside. It utilized a space expansion array, complete with pavilions, meditation rooms, and reception halls. The decorations were extremely luxurious, with the floor paved with warm, lustrous jade, and the beams and pillars carved with coiled dragons and soaring phoenixes. The air was filled with a calming fragrance that soothed the mind and spirit.

The spiritual energy was so dense that it almost condensed into a tangible mist. One could feel a subtle increase in cultivation with every breath, clearly indicating that a massive spirit-gathering array had been set up underground and was connected to the main branch of the capital's spiritual vein.

"The Emperor is certainly generous."

The Five Elements True Lord sensed the surrounding spiritual energy and nodded slightly.

Such a cultivation environment is also beneficial to Nascent Soul cultivators.

"Showing kindness and intimidating with power is just Emperor Huangze's tactic."

Li Yunjing smiled faintly, not caring.

"Please arrange for everyone to rest. Unless it is urgent, please do not go out."

He instructed the accompanying elders and others: "This place is a melting pot of all sorts of people, so don't cause any unnecessary trouble."

"Yes, Headmaster."

The group bowed and accepted the order, then immediately went to arrange their lodgings.

On the Xiao family's side, Patriarch Xiao Xuan also made similar arrangements.

After everyone settled down, key figures such as Li Yunjing, the Five Elements True Lord, Qin Jiuxiao, and Ming Lingchuan gathered in the main hall of the palace and set up a soundproof barrier.

"The Emperor Huangze is hosting a banquet tomorrow, ostensibly to welcome us, but in reality, it is a test and a show of force."

Li Yunjing spoke first, breaking the silence. His gaze swept over every core elder present. "When all forces gather, there will surely be undercurrents. We need to unify our statements and clarify our actions."

"What the sect leader said is absolutely true."

"Judging from the actions of the Huangze Dynasty, its momentum is already established, and its ambitions are obvious."

“At tomorrow’s banquet, he will surely assume the role of leader and take the lead.”

The Five Elements True Lord stroked his beard and pondered: "We should not show our talents too early, but we should not be too humble either, lest we lose the prestige of our sect and be looked down upon by others."

"Strength is paramount."

"Huang Ze is indeed powerful, but my Shenxiao Dao Sect is not one to be easily manipulated."

Qin Jiuxiao's tone was icy: "If anyone is foolish enough to try and test us, let them think twice."

He had a faint stellar energy flowing around him, displaying a powerful confidence.

"What Qin Zhenjun said makes sense, but we also need to be strategic."

"In my opinion, we should remain calm and wait for the right moment to act tomorrow."

Ming Lingchuan, being more composed, added, "The sect leader and the two True Monarchs are the main ones to deal with, while we should keep an eye on the movements of other forces, especially the next-tier forces that are in similar situations to us, and perhaps we can secretly make friends with them."

Ming Lingchuan, the previous sect leader, was a steady and reliable person, and everyone nodded in agreement with his words.

"Teacher, Uncle-Master, fellow disciples, and senior sisters all have their reasons."

Li Yunjing also agreed with everyone's views: "Our strategy for tomorrow's banquet can be: to be humble and low-key, not to compete for empty fame; to observe people's words and expressions, and to wait and see; not to cause trouble, but not to be afraid of trouble; if there is any provocation, to respond swiftly, but to be careful not to overstep the mark."

"Focus on observing a few companies!"

He paused, lightly tapping the armrest of the jade chair with his fingertip, and said in a deep voice, "There's no need to elaborate on the Thirty-Six Heavenly Caves! First, the 'Tai Xu Sword Sect,' the foremost sword cultivator in combat, their attitude is crucial; we must see if they support Huang Ze or have ulterior motives. Second, the 'Kasyapa Treasure Light Temple,' the leader of Buddhism, wields immense influence, and their stance often affects a large number of neutral forces. Third, the 'Luo Fu Dao Sect,' the leader of the Xuanmen (Taoist) sect. Fourth, the major sects of the Demonic Path, such as the 'Heavenly Demon Sect' and the 'Xuanming Palace,' are in a delicate situation; we must be wary of whether they are involved with the Heavenly Demons or might stir up trouble."

"also!"

Li Yunjing's gaze deepened. "We also need to pay close attention to the important ministers and princes beside Emperor Huangze, as well as other seemingly low-key but enigmatic representatives of various forces. The waters in this capital are very deep."

Upon hearing this, everyone nodded solemnly.

Li Yunjing's analysis was clear and logical, hitting the nail on the head, pointing out the possible situation tomorrow and the key points that need attention.

"Sect Master, rest assured, we understand the importance of this matter."

On behalf of all the Supreme Elders, Ming Lingchuan stated, "We will be cautious in our words and actions and cooperate with the Sect Master and the two True Lords."

"it is good."

Li Yunjing nodded, "Everyone should rest well tonight and get into top condition. Tomorrow will be the day when our 'Divine Firmament Dao Sect' makes its official debut before the heroes of 'Tianlan Star'!"

Once the agreement was reached, everyone dispersed and returned to their rooms to recuperate.

Li Yunjing returned to the main quiet room he had prepared for himself.

He did not immediately enter meditation, but instead stood with his hands behind his back by the window, gazing at the most magnificent palace complex in the center of the imperial city, where the dragon aura was most abundant.

That place will be the venue for tomorrow's "Hall of Ten Thousand Emperors" banquet.

His divine sense, like an invisible tide, spread out with extreme caution, sensing the pulse of the great city at night.

Countless powerful auras, like stars in the night, some bright and some dim, intertwined within this vast city.

There is the chilling aura of swords soaring into the sky, the serene light of Buddha, the unrestrained wildness of demonic energy, and the eerie, sinister aura of evil...

It seems that the essence of the entire "Tianlan Star" has been gathered here.

"What a...opportunity!"

Li Yunjing murmured to himself, a hint of anticipation playing on his lips.

The pressure is immense, but it is also an excellent opportunity for the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" to truly step onto the top stage of "Tianlan Star".

Meanwhile, deep within the imperial city, on an observatory overlooking a large part of the capital.

Emperor Huangze stood with his hands behind his back, dressed in casual clothes, his gaze seemingly piercing through space as he landed on the palace area where distinguished guests were received.

The Marquis who received Li Yunjing and his party stood respectfully behind him, giving a detailed report on the process of their reception and his observations of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" and the Xiao family.

(End of this chapter)