Immortality and cultivation begin with full comprehension.

Chapter 837 Post-War Landscape: Recuperation and Recovery (Seeking Monthly Tickets)
Li Yunjing did not immediately return to the Shenxiao Dao Sect, but instead went to the Hengyue Mountain Range to meet Ming Lingchuan.

Today, the "Crossing Mountains" has become the de facto core of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect".

Because of the ancient teleportation array, the "Tianlan Alliance" invested a massive amount of resources here, including arrays, restrictions, and cave dwellings... everything was built to fight against the "Void Demons"!

Such defensive power is far more formidable than the seventy-two peaks of the "Shenxiao Mountain Range".

Within the mountains, spiritual energy abounds, and countless newly opened cave dwellings dot the landscape. Under the guidance of their elders, the surviving disciples rebuild their homes on the ruins. Although they are far from their former glory, they are full of vibrant vitality compared to other places.

Ming Lingchuan was relieved to see Li Yunjing return, but upon hearing of the dangers of "Locking Dragon Abyss" and the warning from the starry sky, his expression became solemn again.

"Sect Leader, you did a great job, even better than I expected."

Ming Lingchuan patted Li Yunjing on the shoulder, his eyes full of satisfaction, "I'm at ease entrusting the future of the sect to you."

"Now that the demonic calamity has been temporarily quelled, you must work even harder to cultivate disciples and strengthen the lineage."

"Although our patriarch has won, the road ahead is long and arduous. Our Shenxiao Dao Sect must never repeat the same mistakes."

"I see."

Li Yunjing nodded emphatically, "I'm here today because the people from the 'Tianlan Alliance' are leaving, and we need to take full control of the 'Hengyue Mountains.' Everything here will be overseen by Brother Ming!"

"Okay! Leave this to me!"

Ming Lingchuan nodded and added, "I will also send disciples to accept the mission from 'Youyue Kingdom' to ensure that it will not affect stability."

After arranging the affairs of "Crossing the Mountains", Li Yunjing transformed into a bolt of lightning and returned directly to the headquarters of "Shenxiao Dao Sect".

When he set foot on Shenxiao Peak again, the entire sect had already begun to resume its normal operations according to his previous plan.

Although the area is still devastated, the desolate desolation has been replaced by bustling vitality.

Without pausing for long, he immediately summoned the core elders, led by Xiao Anran and the Five Elements True Lord, to the "Divine Firmament Palace".

"Transmit my decree."

Li Yunjing sat upright in the sect leader's seat, his voice steady and carrying an unquestionable authority:
"Immediately, in the name of 'Shenxiao Dao Sect,' send a message to the royal family of 'Youyue Kingdom,' the Zhu family of 'Daming Dynasty,' the royal family of 'Zhao Kingdom,' the ruler of 'Cang Kingdom,' allies of 'Donghai Alliance,' the leaders of 'Nanhai Alliance,' and all registered top-tier and first-tier sects and cultivation families within the territory."

"Order its key figures to gather at Shenxiao Peak after March to discuss the important matters of post-war reconstruction, the establishment of new order, and the allocation of resources in the Southern Continent."

"Anyone who fails to appear upon receiving the order shall be deemed to have automatically relinquished their rights in the 'Southern Continent' and shall bear the consequences themselves."

Upon receiving the order, the elders in the hall tensed up, all sensing the weight of the sect leader's words.

This was no longer just a discussion, but a declaration that the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" would dominate the new landscape of the "Southern Continent" after the war with an indisputable hegemonic posture.

"I will obey the sect leader's decree!"

Everyone accepted the order in unison and immediately arranged for the Supreme Elder to carry the decree imprinted with the aura of the "Divine Firmament Thunder Seal" to various places.

……

Three months have passed in the blink of an eye.

During these three months, the Shenxiao Dao Sect was not idle.

Li Yunjing personally oversaw the operation, mobilizing the sect's resources to accelerate the repair of the core area of ​​the main peak. He also meticulously reviewed the vast legacy obtained from the "Tianlan Joint Conference" and formulated a preliminary plan for resource integration and allocation.

This conference is not only crucial for establishing authority, but also for stabilizing public sentiment and uniting forces.

If handled properly, the "Southern Continent" can quickly recover its strength and become a stable rear base for the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect"; if handled improperly, internal strife will arise, increasing the uncertainty.

This is no easy task!

On this day, various colored lights streamed in and out of the sky above Shenxiao Peak, and powerful or restrained auras descended one after another.

The new emperor of the "Ming Dynasty," the rulers of the "Youyue Kingdom," the "Zhao Kingdom," and the "Cang Kingdom" all came in person, followed by the most powerful retainers or clan elders of their respective countries.

The "East China Sea Alliance" and the "South China Sea Alliance" were formed by a group of Nascent Soul Realm cultivators. Although they were not unified, almost all the major island forces and leaders of large merchant guilds within the alliances were present.

In addition, the leaders of surviving top-tier sects such as Louguandao, Beidipai, Xuanbinggu, Lieyangshan, and Qingmuzong, as well as the patriarchs of some long-established first-class cultivation families, also made appearances.

These powerful figures, who used to be the undisputed rulers of their respective territories, all descended upon "Shenxiao Peak" with respectful expressions, even a hint of trepidation.

Having survived the baptism of the demonic tribulation, the strength and prestige of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" have risen to an unprecedented height. It has also gained the recognition of the "Tianlan Joint Conference" and has gained legal jurisdiction over nearly three-fifths of the territory of the "Southern Heaven Continent".

Their future will largely depend on the outcome of today's conference.

The conference was held in the square in front of the newly restored Shenxiao Hall.

The square is spacious enough to accommodate thousands of people.

At this moment, representatives from all sides took their seats in pre-arranged locations, clearly indicating their respective ranks.

Li Yunjing sat in the main seat, flanked by Xiao Anran, the Five Elements True Lord, the Nine Heavens True Lord, Li Cangqiong, and other core elders of the sect.

Ming Lingchuan also rushed back from "Crossing the Mountains" and sat down next to Li Yunjing to show his support.

Without much small talk or preamble, Li Yunjing's gaze swept across the room like lightning, and suddenly his eyes lingered on one person for a moment!

The current emperor of the "Ming Dynasty" is actually Zhu Wanyun?

Did her father also die in the war?
He never imagined that his maid would one day become the ruler of a country!
However, this was not the time to inquire, so Li Yunjing quickly looked away and turned to the others.

Now, apart from the staunch ally "Yuanyang Daozong" and the "Xiao family" who did not come, everyone who was supposed to be there has arrived.

Li Yunjing understood why the "Yuanyang Dao Sect" and the "Xiao Family" didn't come; they were his allies, equal allies, not subordinate forces.

The "Shenxiao Dao Sect" is stronger than the other two, but their status is the same.

They wouldn't go so far as to bully the initial members of the "Tianlan Joint Conference".

Of course, according to Li Yunjing's memory, many familiar faces are now missing. Many sects, families, and even dynasties have been completely destroyed, and no one is here to participate in this meeting.

"I'm sure you all know why I've summoned you here today."

Li Yunjing pulled himself out of his thoughts and said in a deep voice, "The demonic calamity is rampant, and the 'Southern Heaven Continent' is devastated, with countless sects, families, and dynasties reduced to ashes."

"This is a catastrophe unprecedented in the history of our world."

"However, the catastrophe has passed, and the survivors must still move forward."

"Our Shenxiao Dao Sect, blessed by our ancestor and aided by our fellow Daoists, has been fortunate enough to survive. We are also entrusted by the Tianlan Joint Conference to temporarily take on the responsibility of healing the wounds and rebuilding order in the Southern Heaven Continent."

His voice was calm, yet contained a thunderous power, clearly resounding throughout every corner of the square.

"The most important task of today's meeting is to define the territory and allocate resources in order to reassure the people and establish order."

With that, he waved his sleeve, and a huge scroll of light and shadow unfolded in the sky above the square, which was now the map of the "Southern Sky Continent".

The area clearly marked the original territories of various factions, as well as the "unclaimed lands" left behind by those factions that perished in the demonic calamity.

"Based on the resolution of the 'Tianlan Joint Conference' and the contributions and losses of all parties during the demonic calamity, the existing territories and resources are re-divided as follows..."

Li Yunjing began to announce them one by one.

First, it is necessary to confirm that the existing bases of the major powers remain unchanged.

Whether it is a dynasty or a sect or family, the territory and core resource points that existed before the demonic calamity still belong to them.

This stabilized the base of all the forces present, and many people secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

Next came the allocation of the "no man's land".

As the leader and the greatest contributor, the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" naturally received the largest share.

This includes the entire territory of several dynasties that were adjacent to the Ming Dynasty and subsequently fell, as well as all known and unknown resource sites within its borders.

These territories were directly incorporated into the jurisdiction of the "Shenxiao Daozong" or used as the foundation for future enfeoffment of meritorious disciples and the establishment of separate courtyards.

No one disagreed with this.

It is due to their strength and achievements.

Even the behemoths of the "Tianlan Joint Conference" don't object, so naturally these affiliated forces of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" won't be so blind as to try to undermine Li Yunjing.

Following this was compensation and rewards for the other surviving factions.

"The Ming Dynasty defended its territory during the demonic calamity, suffering heavy casualties. The three eastern prefectures were placed under its jurisdiction, and it enjoyed a 30% mining right in the 'Black Wind Mountain' spirit stone vein for 500 years."

"The Youyue Kingdom has been commended for its meritorious service in protecting the human race. Part of the former territory of the 'Liuyun Sword Sect' has been incorporated into the kingdom, and the kingdom is permitted to send its disciples to participate in the exploration of the 'Bibo Pool' secret realm."

"The East China Sea Alliance, guarding the sea frontier and preventing the spread of demonic influence by sea, hereby assigns the 'Star Luo Islands' and its surrounding waters to the Alliance for joint management. The allocation within the Alliance shall be determined by yourselves..."

Louguandao…

"The Northern Emperor's Faction..."

"South China Sea Alliance..."

"Mysterious Ice Valley..."

"Aoki Sect..."

……

Based on the performance of each party during the demonic calamity, the extent of their losses, and their relationship with the "Shenxiao Dao Sect," Li Yunjing methodically announced the distribution plan.

The plan generally balances fairness and efficiency, rewarding those who have made contributions, compensating those who have suffered losses, and taking into account regional continuity and ease of management.

Most factions received compensation beyond their expectations, and their faces showed satisfaction or gratitude.

Even though some felt the allocation was slightly less, no one dared to openly question it due to the absolute authority of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" and the backing of the five major Void Returning forces.

After the resources were allocated, Li Yunjing changed the subject, his tone becoming more serious:

"Territory and resources are fixed, but order must not be abandoned."

"To ensure the long-term peace and stability of the 'Southern Continent,' avoid internal strife, and jointly deal with potential external threats in the future, I propose the establishment of the 'Southern Alliance.'"

"Within the covenant, all factions must abide by the following principles:"

"First, non-aggression and recognition of existing borders. Any disputes must be reported to the 'Shenxiao Daozong' for arbitration, and private initiation of war is strictly prohibited."

"Second, we should exchange goods and services, reduce tariff barriers, promote the flow of resources and talent, and jointly promote recovery."

"Third, we shall jointly maintain the stability of the Southern Heaven Continent. If any evil forces cause trouble or external forces invade, we shall obey the orders of the Divine Firmament Dao Sect and unite against external threats."

"Fourth, hold regular alliance meetings, with the participation of leaders of various forces, to discuss important matters on the mainland."

"This covenant is not a constraint, but a guarantee."

"Those who wish to join the alliance must swear an oath on the fate of their sect (family, dynasty) and abide by it together."

“Those who are unwilling will not be forced, but they will be considered as outside the ‘Southern Sky’ system, and will have no future access to resources or protection.”

This "Southern Alliance" is essentially about building a loose federal system in the "Southern Continent" with the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect" as its absolute core.

It granted the "Shenxiao Daozong" the power of arbitration and wartime command, ensuring its dominant position, while also providing a relatively fair development environment and security guarantee for other forces.

Everyone present was shrewd and immediately understood the meaning behind it.

After a brief silence and deliberation, someone spoke up.

"The Great Ming Dynasty is willing to obey the decree of the Grand Master and join the alliance!"

The new emperor of the Ming Dynasty, Zhu Wanyun, was the first to rise and bow in agreement.

"The Kingdom of Youyue wishes to join the alliance!"

The Shenxiao Dao Sect was affiliated with the He family, whose emperor followed closely behind.

"East China Sea Alliance, we wish to join!"

"South China Sea Alliance, willing to follow in its footsteps!"

……

With one leader taking the lead, other forces followed suit, none willing to be excluded from the core system at this moment.

Soon, all the representatives of the various factions stood up and swore an oath to abide by the "Southern Alliance".

"good!"

Seeing that the situation was settled, Li Yunjing nodded slightly, a faint smile appearing on his face for the first time.

"In that case, from this day forward, the 'Southern Alliance' is established!"

"May we all work together with one heart and one mind to build the glory of our 'Southern Sky'!"

As the voice faded, spiritual energy gathered in the air above the plaza, and faint sounds of dragon roars and phoenix cries echoed, as if the laws of heaven and earth had also recognized this alliance that concerned the future destiny of the continent.

The conference lasted for a month, finalizing the specific details of the alliance, the resource handover process, and various cooperative matters related to post-war reconstruction.

After the conference concluded, the leaders of various factions departed with mixed feelings, and "Shenxiao Peak" gradually returned to its former solemnity.

However, for the "Shenxiao Dao Sect", the real busyness has only just begun.

Li Yunjing acted swiftly and decisively, immediately launching a new round of deployments within the "Shenxiao Palace".

"Elder Xiao, Elder Five Elements, Elder Nine Heavens, Elder Li."

Li Yunjing appointed four core elders, "You four will each lead a team to the former territories of 'Qi' and 'Yue' to fully take over the territory, inventory resources, appease the remaining people, and establish our clan's administrative center."

"I will obey the sect leader's decree!"

The four men solemnly accepted the order.

This is not just about taking over territory, but a crucial step in extending the rule of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" to this vast land.

Those local forces may not be willing to accept the rule of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect," and conflict and war may break out!

Only with the arrival of these experts can the forces of the Divine Firmament Dao Sect be suppressed and its will carried out.

"Brother Ming!"

Li Yunjing then looked at Ming Lingchuan, “'Crossing the Mountains' is the foundation of our sect’s future, and we cannot afford to lose it.”

"After you return, you need to further strengthen the defenses, and at the same time coordinate the integration of the newly acquired territories from 'Youyue Kingdom' to 'Hengyue Mountain Range' to ensure that the passage is unobstructed and resources flow smoothly."

"Don't worry, Sect Leader, leave it to me."

Ming Lingchuan nodded solemnly.

"The other peak masters and elders will be dispatched to various places according to the previously agreed plan to assist in establishing a ruling order, eliminating any remaining demons or unstable factors, and selecting promising local cultivators to be incorporated into the outer sect system."

As commands were issued, the massive machine of the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect" began to operate efficiently.

One by one, Nascent Soul cultivators and Golden Core elders led their disciples, transforming into streaks of light as they rushed to various parts of the "Southern Heaven Continent," especially the former territories of "Qi" and "Yue," which were newly incorporated into the map.

At the same time, with the dissolution of the "Tianlan Alliance" and the strong integration of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" into the "Southern Continent", the power structure of the continent has undergone earth-shattering changes.

Of the once numerous colossal powers, only four towering pillars remain, standing firm on the four corners of the continent:

In the East, with the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" as its absolute core, it governs a vast area including the former Ming, Youyue, Zhao, Cang, and the newly acquired Qi and Yue territories, with its sphere of influence covering nearly three-fifths of the continent, and is at the height of its power.

In the West, it is the "Yuanyang Dao Sect".

Although it suffered considerable losses in the demonic calamity, its foundation remains intact. It and the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect" are closely related, forming a mutually supportive relationship and jointly guarding the vast western territory of the continent.

In the south, under the Buddha's light, the gate of Mingxin Temple remains unchanged.

These monks displayed astonishing resilience and purifying power during the demonic calamity, protecting vast swathes of southern land and delivering countless souls from suffering; their influence, rather than diminishing, actually increased.

Besides these three major human forces, there was another behemoth that persevered.

This behemoth of a power is the "Youlan Mountain Range" within the "Ming Dynasty".

The misty "Secluded Orchid Sanctuary" maintains its otherworldly demeanor.

After a meeting of the high-level officials of the "Shenxiao Dao Sect," the demon race's holy land, which was neither friend nor foe, decided to coexist peacefully.

After the demonic calamity, the Shenxiao Dao Sect was in such a terrible state that it had no desire to wage war against any other force!
The disciples under his tutelage generally also harbored war-weariness.

Li Yunjing didn't want to risk his family's wealth in a deadly battle against the many demons in the "Youlan Mountains"!

This is not a good thing for the "Shenxiao Dao Sect".

These four major forces have created a new balance in the "Southern Continent".

Although there is competition between them, after experiencing the baptism of the demonic tribulation, they have developed a greater tacit understanding and a willingness to help each other.

In particular, the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" and the "Yuanyang Dao Sect" can almost be regarded as one entity.

Just as the entire Shenxiao Dao Sect was busy acquiring new territories and consolidating its rule, one day, Li Yunjing was handling official business in a side hall of the Shenxiao Palace when the disciple on duty came to report:
"Reporting to the Sect Leader, Empress Zhu Wanyun of the Ming Dynasty requests an audience outside the palace."

Li Yunjing paused slightly in his hand on the jade slip, pondered for a moment, and then said, "Summon."

Before long, Zhu Wanyun, dressed in imperial robes but unable to conceal the weariness and complexity between her brows, slowly walked into the hall.

Li Yunjing dismissed his attendants, leaving only himself and Zhu Wanyun in the hall.

"Wanyun greets her master."

Zhu Wanyun curtsied, her voice tinged with a barely perceptible sob.

Outside, she was the esteemed Empress of the Ming Dynasty; here, she remained the maid who had once served her.

"There's no one here, no need for formalities."

Li Yunjing raised his hand in a gesture of support: "Please sit down."

His gaze swept over Zhu Wanyun, and he could sense the heavy burden and sorrow on her shoulders. "Your father... please accept my condolences."

"There's no one here, no need for formalities." Zhu Wanyun's eyes were slightly red, and she forced back her tears, nodding: "My father... sacrificed himself for the country, and died a worthy death."

She paused, looked up at Li Yunjing, her eyes filled with complex emotions, "Wanyun has come here today for two reasons. First, to see the master. Second, on behalf of the Ming Dynasty, to thank the master for the great favor bestowed upon our dynasty at the conference."

The mining rights to the three eastern prefectures and the Black Wind Mountains were undoubtedly a timely help for the Ming Dynasty, which was severely weakened.

With these resources, as long as the royal family develops smoothly, several Golden Core cultivators will surely emerge in the future!
"That is what the Ming Dynasty deserves."

Li Yunjing nodded slightly: "As the ruler of a country, you should prioritize the well-being of the nation and its people, strive for excellence in governance, and not fail your father's expectations, nor the support of me and the sect."

"Wanyun understands."

Zhu Wanyun nodded emphatically, then hesitated for a moment. “Master, there is one more thing… There are some differing opinions in the court regarding the takeover of the three eastern prefectures. Wanyun would like to ask for your guidance.”

Li Yunjing glanced at her, knowing that this was the main reason she had come in person.

The newly incorporated territory will inevitably have many unresolved issues and power struggles. Although Zhu Wanyun has ascended the throne, his foundation is not yet stable and he needs Zhu Wanyun's explicit support.

"Tell me the details of what happened."

Li Yunjing gestured for her to sit down and talk in detail.

While Li Yunjing was receiving Zhu Wanyun in the palace to handle internal affairs of the continent, an unexpected change was quietly taking place in the territory of the "Xuanbing Valley" in the far north of the "Southern Sky Continent".

After the "Xuanbing Palace" was wiped out by the "Shenxiao Dao Sect", the "Xuanbing Valley", as the strongest first-class sect in the North, held its mountain gate during the demonic calamity and gained many benefits in the subsequent "Southern Alliance". It was ready to make great strides.

However, on this day, several inner disciples of the "Mysterious Ice Valley" who were patrolling the border discovered an unusual spatial fluctuation deep within a glacial fissure newly formed due to a great battle.

Driven by curiosity, they ventured deeper into the area, only to trigger some ancient restriction.

In an instant, a faint light flashed deep within the rift, and a cold, deathly aura, unlike anything found in this world, spread out.

The disciples were frozen solid before they could even scream, and then shattered into pieces.

The eerie light did not dissipate; instead, like ink dripping into clear water, it began to slowly but steadily erode the surrounding space, and a tiny, extremely unstable spatial passage was quietly forming...

At the other end of the passage, the faint sound of endless howling winds and some ancient, hungry will could be heard...

This chill was completely different from the ice and snow laws commonly found on "Tianlan Star," carrying a deathly quality that froze souls and annihilated life.

The elders who remained at "Xuanbing Valley" quickly noticed the abnormal energy fluctuations in the border area and the devastating news that the life tablets of several inner disciples had shattered.

An elder at the early Nascent Soul stage immediately led a group to investigate.

However, as they approached the crevice, they were also intimidated by the terrifying chill.

Disciples with lower cultivation levels were unable to withstand the emanating aura; their magical power stagnated, and their blood vessels nearly froze.

"Something's wrong! Something's amiss here!"

"Quickly report to the Valley Master and all the Supreme Elders!"

The Nascent Soul Grand Elder's expression changed drastically. While raising a protective barrier of magical power to resist the cold air, he hurriedly ordered his disciples to retreat and issued the highest level of alarm.

At this moment, the Valley Master of "Mysterious Ice Valley" is leading a group of elites to receive a newly allocated cold-attribute resource area, originally belonging to a destroyed sect, in accordance with the guidance of the "Southern Heaven Alliance".

The one who remained at the sect was a very senior late-stage Nascent Soul Grand Elder, whose Daoist name was "Hanji Zhenren".

Upon receiving the alarm, Master Hanji was startled and immediately left seclusion to personally rush to the glacial crevice.

When he saw the constantly twisting spatial passage emitting an ominous glow, and the eerie space around the passage that had been completely frozen and could even erode divine sense, this experienced and seasoned master gasped in shock.

"This is... a portal to another world?!"

"It's not demonic energy, but... the power of extreme cold and death!"

Master Hanji's expression was extremely solemn.

He tried to probe the passage with his own icy powers, but found that his magic power was like a mud ox sinking into the sea when it approached the passage; instead, it was assimilated and absorbed by the strange cold energy!
"This is something our sect cannot handle!"

Immediately, Master Hanji made a decisive decision: "Activate the highest alert level of the valley protection formation at once and seal off the area within a thousand miles!"

"At the same time, request reinforcements from the 'Divine Firmament Dao Sect' as quickly as possible!"

"Report this situation to Headmaster Li in detail!"

Although this thing doesn't look big now, the level of laws it contains is extremely high. Once the passage is stabilized, the "ancient and hungry will" on the other side will descend, and it will be something that "Mysterious Ice Valley" alone cannot withstand.

Now that the "Southern Continent" has established an alliance, and the "Divine Firmament Dao Sect" is the leader of the alliance, it is more capable of handling such a crisis.

It's not worth making them do it themselves!
……

Inside the side hall of "Shenxiao Peak".

Li Yunjing had just given Zhu Wanyun some general instructions on the predicament she was facing, and promised to send a Nascent Soul Elder to lead a team to assist the Ming Dynasty in stabilizing the situation in the three eastern prefectures and ensuring that the will of the "Shenxiao Daozong" was carried out.

Zhu Wanyun felt relieved and was about to bow in thanks and leave when hurried footsteps suddenly came from outside the hall.

"Report!"

A disciple on duty, holding a jade slip that exuded a chilling aura, strode into the hall and knelt on one knee: "Reporting to the Sect Leader!"

"Emergency request for assistance from the 'Mysterious Ice Valley' in the North!"

"It is reported that an unstable interdimensional passage has been discovered within their territory, with an aura of extreme cold and death leaking out. It is suspected to be connected to an unknown icy realm, and its power is beyond the control of the icy laws of this realm. Disciples have already perished, and the situation is critical. We request the Alliance Leader's immediate support!"

"Ok?"

Li Yunjing's brows furrowed suddenly, and the atmosphere that had just eased became tense again.

Zhu Wanyun also looked surprised. An interdimensional passage?

How long has it been since things calmed down?

Li Yunjing raised his hand and took the jade slip filled with cold energy. He immersed his divine sense into it and instantly perceived the images recorded inside and the urgent divine thoughts of True Person Hanji.

The distorted, eerie passageway, the frozen, shattered disciples, and that pure, deathly chill that even he found somewhat unsettling.

"It's not demonic energy, but another kind of otherworldly power with extremely cold attributes..."

Li Yunjing's gaze sharpened. "It seems that what the patriarch said, 'The universe is vast, and calamities are endless,' was not an empty phrase. The demonic calamity has just subsided, and new troubles have already arrived."

"The matter concerning the Ming Dynasty shall be carried out as previously discussed."

He looked at Zhu Wanyun: "You should go back first and stabilize the situation in the court."

"Yes! Wanyun takes her leave!"

Zhu Wanyun knew the gravity of the matter and immediately bowed and left.

"Summon the Thunder God, the Nine Netherworld God, and the Blazing Fire God!"

Li Yunjing stood up and took a step forward, arriving at the main hall of the "Shenxiao Palace".

"Yes!"

The disciple on duty dared not delay and quickly left to relay the order.

Soon, the three Grand Elders, Lei Ze Zhenren, Jiu You Zhenren, and Lie Huo Zhenren, gathered in the main hall.

Li Yunjing directly showed the contents of the "Mysterious Ice Valley" jade slip to everyone.

After reading it, all three of them had a dark expression.

"Another interdimensional portal? And one with extreme cold properties?"

Master Jiuyou frowned deeply. "Could it be that another great world has its eyes on us?"

"It may not be intentional targeting."

Master Lei Ze pondered, “The starry sky is vast, and it is possible that spatial rifts are formed by the collision of realms. However, this aura… is very strange and does not seem to be benevolent.”

"Under no circumstances should it be allowed to become stable."

Master Liehuo replied decisively, "Sect Leader, I am willing to lead a team to investigate!"

"The laws governing this passage are strange; even True Immortal Hanji is helpless against them. Ordinary methods will probably be ineffective."

After a moment's thought, Li Yunjing shook his head: "I will go there myself."

His cultivation has now reached the peak of the fifth level of the Nascent Soul realm. He wields the "Divine Firmament Thunder Seal" and can even mobilize a trace of the chaotic thunder power of the "Heavenly Thunder Tower." It is extremely yang and strong, making it the nemesis of this kind of yin, cold, and deathly power.

It would be safest for him to take action personally.

"The affairs of the sect will be temporarily managed jointly by the three of you."

Li Yunjing ordered, "Yan Yang, Lin Xuan, you two will accompany me to the 'Mysterious Ice Valley'. Let's depart immediately!"

"Yes!"

The people who were called upon responded in unison.

Moments later, the "Sky Patrol Ship" soared into the sky from "Shenxiao Peak," tearing through the clouds and speeding toward the north of the continent at an astonishing pace.

Inside the "Sky Patrol Ship," Li Yunjing's gaze was deep and thoughtful.

He had a premonition that this suddenly appearing interdimensional passage was probably just the beginning.

"Tianlan Star" is like an isolated island revealed on the sea after a storm. It may seem safe, but it may attract attention from all directions, whether out of curiosity or... malice.

This demonic calamity, in particular, shattered the void and created numerous spatial rifts, making it easier for other worlds to find this source of life.

Inside the ship's cabin, Li Yunjing closed his eyes and concentrated, but his consciousness was closely connected with the "Divine Firmament Thunder Seal" in his hand, silently sensing the increasingly clear deathly chill in the distance.

Yan Yang and Lin Xuan stood on either side, their expressions solemn. They knew that this trip with their master was not a simple training exercise, but rather a journey that might involve facing unknown threats from another world.

"Master,"

Yan Yang couldn't help but ask, "This otherworldly chill seems completely different from the demonic energy of the demon race?"

"good."

Li Yunjing slowly opened his eyes, a faint flash of lightning in them: "The demonic energy of the demon race tends to erode, cause chaos and destruction, while this chilling energy... is closer to absolute 'annihilation,' freezing all life and energy flow, even including divine consciousness."

"Its laws are of an extremely high level and should not be underestimated."

Lin Xuan said worriedly, "Even True Immortal Hanji couldn't handle this, what will happen to us..."

"It doesn't matter."

Li Yunjing spoke calmly, yet with absolute confidence, "The Supreme Yang Thunder is precisely the nemesis of this kind of Yin-cold and deathly power."

"Moreover, the passage is newly formed and not yet stable. Even if the being on the other side is strong, it will be suppressed by the realm when it crosses over. It is not that it is impossible to deal with."

"You two are accompanying me mainly to observe and experience the clash of different laws of power, which will greatly benefit your future cultivation."

He looked at his two disciples and said, "You just need to watch; there's no need for you to intervene."

"Yes, Master!"

Yan Yang and Lin Xuan responded in unison.

The two then understood their teacher's meaning: he wanted to focus on cultivating them!
Their hearts were burning with passion!

The Shenxiao Dao Sect has suffered a great loss of strength. Although the two of them have not been in the Golden Core realm for long, they have still obtained a high position that they never dared to dream of before.

Yan Yang became a powerful elder of "Seven Star Peak", in charge of resource allocation.

Lin Xuan, on the other hand, joined the "Xuanwu Army" and became a commander with the power to lead troops.

It can be said that before the Demonic Tribulation, Lin Xuan and Yan Yang would never have received such training, even if their teacher was Li Yunjing!

In the past, there were too many wolves and not enough meat, so each person had their own spot. Now, many good spots have become available, which is why these two young people can be accommodated.

Such situations are not uncommon.

Yu Yunyi became an elder of "Chaoyang Peak"; Lü Ruoxi became an elder of "Yu Nu Peak"; Zhao Qi became the person in charge of "Qi Wu Manor"; Liu Ruyan was in charge of the harem of "Shen Xiao Peak"; Xing'er and Yue'er were still in charge of "Xing Yue Trading Company".

Li Yunjing's six women also benefited.

Besides, Fu Chao, Ma Xingyuan, Xu Xun, Yu Zongzhe, Yang Wenzheng, Yang Wenyue, Wang Yun, Ma Ye, Fang Long, Yu Yuanhua, Fang Yuxuan... these old friends also received promotions after surviving.

Just as the "Sky Patrol Ship" was traveling at full speed, the situation at the glacial crevice outside the "Mysterious Ice Valley" deteriorated further.

The eerie passageway expanded several times over, now taller than a person, with the space at its edges constantly peeling away and freezing like a shattered mirror.

An even denser, grayish-white chill, like tangible smoke, surged forth, freezing and absorbing even light and sound wherever it passed, creating an absolute, deathly silence.

Master Hanji had already pushed the sect's grand formation to its limit, and a huge ice-blue light screen covered an area of ​​hundreds of miles in an attempt to prevent the spread of the cold air.

However, the strange cold energy could slowly erode the array's light barrier, causing grayish-white ice crystals to continuously condense on the barrier, only to be shattered by the array's power, in a continuous cycle, maintaining a fragile balance.

"Elder! The spirit stones in the core of the formation are being consumed too quickly!"

"At this rate, we can only hold out for three more days at most!"

A Golden Core elder responsible for maintaining the formation reported anxiously.

Master Hanji's face was ashen. He tried several supernatural abilities and even used an ancient treasure passed down through generations, but he could not shake the passage in the slightest. Instead, he was almost devoured by the cold energy.

The will on the other side of the passage seemed to have sensed the resistance from this side as well. The sense of "hunger" and "coldness" it conveyed became increasingly clear, like a lurking beast patiently waiting for the moment to hunt.

"Hopefully... the reinforcements from the 'Divine Firmament Dao Sect' will arrive in time..."

Hanji Zhenren gazed at the southern horizon, his heart filled with anxiety.

A day later, at the edge of the sky, a blazing bolt of lightning ripped through the gloomy northern sky, accompanied by a deep rumble, and rapidly amplified.

"They're here! It's the 'Sky Patrol Ship' of the 'Divine Firmament Dao Sect'!"

The disciples of "Mysterious Ice Valley," who had been keeping a close eye on the south, shouted with delight.

Master Hanji was also invigorated and immediately went to meet him.

The "Sky Patrol Ship" hovered outside the protective array of "Mystic Ice Valley". The ship's door opened, and Li Yunjing stepped out with Yan Yang and Lin Xuan.

He did not conceal his aura; the pressure of the peak fifth level of the Nascent Soul realm, mixed with pure thunderous Daoist energy, instantly dispelled the uncomfortable chill in the surroundings.

"Fellow Daoist Hanji, how is the situation?"

Li Yunjing's gaze fell directly on the distant rift emitting an ominous glow, his brows furrowing slightly.

Even from a great distance, he could feel the persistent chill of that deathly stillness.

"Sect Leader Li! You've finally arrived!"

As if seeing a savior, Master Hanji rushed forward and quickly explained the situation, emphasizing the characteristics of the cold energy and the chilling will on the other side of the passage.

"...We tried everything we could, but we couldn't hurt it in the slightest. Instead, we were almost taken advantage of by its cold aura."

"This item is definitely not ordinary!"

The cold and lonely immortal spoke in a heavy tone.

Li Yunjing nodded and said to Yan Yang and Lin Xuan, "You two stay here and help maintain the formation. Do not approach the rift without my order."

"Yes!"

Immediately afterward, he said to Hanji Zhenren and the several Nascent Soul elders of Xuanbing Valley who had rushed over upon hearing the news, "Fellow Daoists, please stay here and provide support while I go to investigate."

Before he finished speaking, a flash of lightning appeared around him, and he transformed into a purple bolt of lightning, ignoring the dissipating grayish-white cold air, and shot directly towards the core of the glacier fissure.

The closer you get to the crevice, the more intense the deathly chill becomes.

If an ordinary Nascent Soul cultivator were here, their magical power would probably be frozen.

However, the lightning surrounding Li Yunjing was like a blazing sun, and wherever it passed, the gray-white cold air retreated and melted away, unable to get close.

He hovered a hundred feet in front of the distorted, eerie passage, carefully sensing its surroundings.

The passage was a chaotic mess, with only endless howling winds and a chilling will.

He tried to probe with a wisp of his divine sense, but immediately felt an extreme cold backlash from his divine sense, as if even his thoughts were about to be frozen.

"Humph!"

Li Yunjing snorted coldly, and the chaotic thunderous intent contained in his divine sense erupted, dispelling the chill.

"It's really strange; even divine sense probing is suppressed."

Without further hesitation, he raised his hand and unleashed the "Divine Firmament Thunder Seal".

"Buzz!"

The Thunder Seal grew taller with the wind, transforming into a size of about ten feet in diameter, hovering above the passage. Thousands of thunder patterns lit up on the seal, drawing upon the thunderous energy of the surrounding heavens.

"Radiant divine thunder, heed my command!"

“It’s evil!”

Li Yunjing formed a hand seal and pointed towards the passage of ghostly light.

"Crack!!!"

A bolt of chaotic divine lightning, as thick as a bucket, crashed down from the bottom of the lightning seal, striking the entrance to the passage with pinpoint accuracy!

This chaotic divine lightning contains a trace of the original power of the "Heavenly Divine Lightning Tower," which is extremely yang and strong, possessing the power to destroy all laws!
"Boom!"

Lightning and ghostly light collided violently!
The anticipated channel collapse did not occur immediately.

(End of this chapter)