Immortality and cultivation begin with full comprehension.

Chapter 848 A Gathering of Masters, A New Era (Seeking Monthly Tickets)
This happened shortly after Li Yunjing discussed Dao with Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi in the Huangji Secret Realm.

A vast and incomparable pressure, carrying a strong aura of bloodshed and slaughter; a sharp and unparalleled sword intent that seemed capable of severing all things in the world; and a tranquil and inactive yet ethereal and profound Daoist charm, descended almost simultaneously outside the capital of the "Huangze Continent".

The three powerful auras did not force their way in, but remained outside the capital's protective array as a sign of respect for their master.

But the undisguised terrifying power belonging to a Void Returning Great Power still made all the cultivators in the capital feel a chill, and countless eyes looked up at the sky in horror.

Deep within the palace, Crown Prince Ji Beichen, who was handling state affairs, suddenly looked up, his expression changing slightly.

He immediately put down the jade slip in his hand, and in a flash appeared on the highest star-gazing platform in the palace, looking solemnly at the source of the three dazzling auras that were as bright as the sun.

"Blood Demon Ancestor, Taixu Sword Master, Yu Chenzi... the three seniors have arrived together. May I ask what guidance they have for you?"

Ji Beichen's voice was clearly transmitted outside the capital through the array.

Although he was nervous, he maintained a calm and polite tone.

"Hmph, little kid, no need to be nervous."

A hoarse yet domineering voice rang out; it was the Blood Demon Ancestor. “The three of us have come to see off Huang Ze and Tian Zhenzi, and also… we have some things we would like to discuss with them in person.”

The voice of the Sword Master of Taixu was concise and cold: "Please announce my arrival."

Yu Chenzi's voice was much gentler: "Your Highness, the three of us have no ill intentions, but this matter is of great importance and requires us to speak with the Emperor and the Grand Preceptor in person. We hope you can do us a favor."

Ji Beichen's mind raced. These three, along with his father and the Imperial Preceptor, were at the pinnacle of this realm. Their purpose in coming here was self-evident.

He dared not delay and immediately bowed, saying, "Please wait a moment, seniors. I will inform my father and the Imperial Preceptor."

The news quickly spread to the "Imperial Secret Realm".

At the summit, Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi exchanged a smile, seemingly having anticipated this.

"What was bound to happen has finally happened."

Emperor Huangze stood up with a flick of his sleeve, "Please invite them in, let's have a chat in the secret realm."

Tianzhenzi also laughed and said, "It seems that our actions have stirred up some trouble, making these old friends restless."

Soon, the three streams of light were guided into the "Imperial Extreme Secret Realm" and landed on the summit of Imperial Extreme Peak.

As the light faded, three figures with distinct personalities, yet equally unfathomable, were revealed.

One of them was an old man wearing a blood-red robe, his face hidden in the rolling blood mist. He was none other than the Blood Demon Ancestor, whose aura was violent and powerful.

One was a middle-aged man carrying an ancient sword, dressed in a simple blue robe, with a face as cold and stern as a rock. He was the Sword Master of Taixu, and his whole being seemed like a sharp sword drawn from its sheath.

The last one was an old Taoist priest with white hair and a youthful face, wearing a Bagua Taoist robe, holding a whisk, and exuding an ethereal and otherworldly aura. He was none other than Yu Chenzi.

The three men's gazes immediately fell on Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi. Sensing their flawless, harmonious aura that resonated with heaven and earth and seemed ready to transcend at any moment, a complex look flashed in their eyes, a mixture of envy, solemnity, and a hint of determination.

"Huang Ze, you two have quite the guts!"

The Blood Demon Ancestor spoke first, his voice booming, "They actually intend to join forces to attempt the path to ascension!"

"Fellow Daoist Blood Demon, Fellow Daoist Taixu, Fellow Daoist Yuchen, how have you been?"

Emperor Huangze smiled calmly and gestured, "Please sit down."

Tianzhenzi rearranged the teacups and poured spiritual tea for the three of them.

The Sword Master of Taixu's gaze was sharp as a sword as he asked directly, "Huang Ze, Tian Zhenzi, how confident are you two?"

What he was asking was, of course, the success rate of ascension.

Yu Chenzi stroked his beard and said, "Fellow Daoists, the matter of ascension concerns the future of all fellow Daoists in this world. I hope you will not hesitate to offer your guidance."

Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi knew that the arrival of these three was not simply a farewell.

They were also trapped in the Void Returning Realm, their path forward blocked. Now that they saw someone about to take that step, they were naturally excited and wanted to find out the truth. They might even have had the same thoughts.

"The idea of ​​grasping something is vague and unrealistic."

Emperor Huangze pondered for a moment, then slowly said, "The tribulation of ascension varies from person to person. The Imperial Preceptor and I can only say that we have made full preparations and done our utmost."

As for success or failure, only Heaven knows.

Tianzhenzi added, "However, the two of them working together and supporting each other gives them more confidence to deal with unexpected events than if they were alone."

"This is especially true when facing unknown risks in the ascension process."

The meaning behind those words is quite clear.

A flash of bloodlust appeared in the Blood Demon Ancestor's eyes: "You mean... joining forces to ascend has a higher success rate?"

The Sword Master of Taixu remained silent, but his tightly clenched sword fingers revealed that his heart was not at peace.

Yu Chenzi's eyes flashed with a sharp light, as if he was rapidly deducing something.

"At least, this is true when facing calamities and risks that are not directly aimed at individuals."

Emperor Huangze nodded: "Of course, the premise is that we have absolute trust in each other and that our Dao techniques can complement each other."

A brief silence fell upon the summit.

Only a gentle breeze and the wafting aroma of spiritual tea filled the air.

The Blood Demon Ancestor, the Sword Master of the Void, and Yu Chenzi exchanged glances, communicating silently.

The three belonged to different factions, had different methods of cultivation, and even had some old grudges against each other.

However, it is almost impossible for them to have the same absolute trust as Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi and ascend together in the short term.

After a long silence, the Sword Master of Taixu said in a deep voice, "It seems that you two have made up your minds to leave."

"With the great path before us, how can we remain stagnant and complacent?"

Emperor Huangze spoke with a firm tone.

"We will always remember your kindness in going ahead to pave the way for us."

Yu Chenzi sighed deeply: "I wish you both... immediate success!"

The Blood Demon Ancestor also said in a deep voice, "Huang Ze, Tian Zhenzi, if you two can truly succeed and establish a foundation in the Upper Realm, then if I can go up there one day, I'll have a place to go! Haha!"

Although his words were spoken in jest, they also revealed his inner desire and a hint of helpless anticipation.

Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi both smiled slightly and did not respond.

They knew that these three had come today to confirm the ascension, and the fire in their hearts had been ignited.

Perhaps before long, when they are all ready, have adjusted their state, or have found suitable companions, they will follow the example of today and embark on the path of ascension one after another.

The strongest people of an era on "Tianlan Star" are about to undergo a tremendous change due to the decisions of Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi.

Over the next month, the entire high-level cultivation world of "Tianlan Star" was as if a boulder had been thrown into it, and the ripples it stirred up quickly spread to every corner.

The news that Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi were about to ascend to immortality together was no longer a secret and had become the hottest topic among all cultivators.

Ascend!

A feat that has been almost legendary for hundreds of thousands of years is now about to happen in real life!

This is incredibly attractive to all cultivators who are stuck in a bottleneck and yearn for a higher realm, especially those powerful individuals who are at the peak of the Nascent Soul stage and whose path forward is blocked.

Even just observing, feeling the overwhelming power of the ascension tribulation, and comprehending the flow of Daoist rhyme as it breaks through boundaries, could be an unparalleled opportunity for them to break through their own shackles and glimpse a trace of the true meaning of the Great Dao!

In an instant, a storm was brewing.

The sect leaders and supreme elders from the "Thirty-Six Grotto-Heavens," all powerful Nascent Soul Realm experts who are usually rarely seen, are heading towards the capital of the "Huangze Continent" from various continents and corners of "Tianlan Star," either riding escape lights, riding magnificent flying boats, or using ultra-long-distance teleportation arrays.

Demonic giants, immortal sect leaders, great saints of the demon race, rogue cultivators... regardless of good or evil, regardless of race, almost every powerful person who has reached the Nascent Soul stage and is qualified to know about and participate in such a grand event is present.

Outside the capital, the usually empty sky was now filled with all sorts of flying magical artifacts and spirit beast mounts, their precious light soaring into the sky, creating a variety of strange phenomena.

Powerful divine senses intertwined and collided in the void, yet they all tacitly suppressed their own auras, daring not to act rashly at this time and place.

The capital city was overflowing with people.

All the inns and cave dwellings were already fully booked, and even some private residences were rented at high prices.

Crown Prince Ji Beichen had already ordered the opening of a specific area on the outskirts of the capital to set up temporary reception areas, and the dispatch of elite guards by the royal family to maintain order in order to prevent riots.

Every day, a new and powerful aura descends, drawing everyone's attention.

"Look! That's the rogue cultivator, Ice Soul Venerable! It's said that he has reached the peak of the late-stage Nascent Soul realm and has been in seclusion for a thousand years. I didn't expect him to come today!"

"And the lord of 'Mount Ten Thousand Beasts' actually brought that 'Jade Qilin' that's almost at the Divine Transformation stage!"

"Look over there! It's the Pavilion Master and several elders of the 'Mysterious Immortal Pavilion'! They've actually come down from the mountain!"

"Tsk tsk, even the Valley Master of 'Medicine King Valley,' who has always been aloof from worldly affairs, has come in person. It seems that no one can stay out of this grand ascension event!"

……

Discussions and exclamations echoed in every corner of the capital.

The Nascent Soul True Monarchs, who are rarely seen on ordinary days, are now as numerous as carp crossing a river, opening the eyes of countless low-level cultivators, while also making them feel extremely oppressed.

The entire capital city seemed to have become a giant powder keg, the atmosphere heavy and intense, with everyone waiting for the decisive moment to arrive.

The palace became the center of all attention.

Crown Prince Ji Beichen has been extremely busy lately, not only handling daily government affairs but also personally receiving various powerful figures, balancing relationships between them, and ensuring the stability of the capital.

The pressure was so great that he could hardly breathe, but it was under this high pressure that he grew rapidly, and a sense of imperial majesty and decisiveness gradually appeared between his brows.

As an ally personally recognized by Emperor Huangze and one of the few people allowed to enter the "Huangji Secret Realm" to speak with the two soon-to-ascendants, Li Yunjing's residence naturally became the focus of attention for all parties.

Many Nascent Soul cultivators attempted to visit him to learn more about the inside story of ascension, or to forge a good relationship with him, the leader of the infinitely promising "Divine Firmament Dao Sect".

Li Yunjing accepted all offers of information, but he was very discreet in his speech, only talking about romance and not about the details of ascension, which left many people who wanted to get information out of him empty-handed.

He spent most of his time at his residence, tending to his injured soul while quietly reflecting on the insights he had gained from Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi. At the same time, he silently observed the capital city, where events were unfolding, and felt the tension of an impending storm.

The ascension of Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi, regardless of success or failure, will forever change the landscape of "Tianlan Star".

This "ceremonial ceremony," which brought together almost all the top experts in this world, is destined to be recorded in history and become a significant chapter in the legends of later generations.

Time passed day by day in this state of extreme tension and excitement during the wait.

There are only seven days left until the day Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi agree to ascend to immortality.

The atmosphere in the entire capital was extremely tense. Countless eyes were constantly cast day and night toward the area deep within the palace that was shrouded in an array, filled with anticipation, speculation, and trepidation.

Just as everyone was watching and people were in turmoil, the Crown Prince Regent, Ji Beichen, who was about to succeed as the new emperor, made a decision that surprised and delighted all the powerful figures outside the country.

A bright yellow imperial edict was issued from the palace, read aloud by the official in charge of rites, and quickly spread throughout the capital:

"The Emperor, by the Will of Heaven, proclaims:"

"The late emperor and the imperial advisor, in pursuit of the supreme Dao, will trigger a heavenly tribulation in the 'Imperial Supreme Secret Realm' in seven days to break through the boundary and ascend to immortality."

"This is a grand event that has not been seen in hundreds of thousands of years on our 'Tianlan Star,' and it is also an unparalleled opportunity for us cultivators to observe the Heavenly Dao and temper our Dao hearts."

"I, in my compassion for the aspirations of all cultivators, hereby decree: All the leaders and supreme elders of the 'Thirty-Six Grotto-Heavens,' the heads of various powerful sects, and renowned and established Nascent Soul Peak True Persons may, on the day of their ascension, use this decree and their identity tokens to enter a specific area on the outskirts of the 'Imperial Extreme Secret Realm' through a designated passage to witness the grand ascension spectacle and feel the magnificence of the Heavenly Dao!"

"However, the place of ascension is of great importance and cannot be lost."

"Spectators must maintain order, refrain from making noise, trespassing into restricted areas, or interfering with the ascension process in any way."

"Those who violate this rule will be regarded as enemies of the entire 'Huangze Dynasty' and the righteous path of the world, and will be severely punished without exception!"

"Appreciate this!"

Upon the release of this edict, the entire capital was initially silent, but then erupted into a huge uproar and heated discussion!
"what?"

"Are we allowed to go in and observe the ceremony?"

"Great!"

"I thought we would only be able to feel some of the aftershocks from the outside, but I didn't expect the new emperor to be so generous as to allow us to enter the secret realm to witness the ceremony!"

"Although it's only the outer area, it's still the 'Royal Ultimate Secret Realm'!"

"The spiritual energy is abundant, and the Daoist principles flow freely. Watching the ceremony here is a hundred times more effective than outside!"

"The new emperor's move is truly... truly to my liking!"

"In this way, we owe the new emperor a favor, and we owe the 'Huangze Dynasty' a favor!"

……

Those powerful figures and Nascent Soul True Monarchs who had previously been somewhat reserved or worried now showed uncontrollable joy on their faces.

Being able to observe ascension up close has immeasurable benefits for them in comprehending the laws of heaven and earth and breaking through their own bottlenecks.

This favor is far too heavy!

Even some leaders of forces who originally had different thoughts about the loss of two Void Returning experts in the "Huangze Dynasty" now had to reconsider.

The new Empress Beichen's move not only demonstrated her magnanimity and demeanor, but also subtly won over the hearts of almost the entire elite class of "Tianlan Star".

If things turn against the "Huangze Dynasty" in the future, the first thing it will likely face is the backlash from the various forces that have benefited from its favors.

"This new emperor... is no ordinary person."

"They know how to leverage existing resources, and they also know how to bestow favors."

A rogue cultivator in the late stage of the Nascent Soul realm from a distant continent stroked his beard and sighed, "'Huangze Dynasty' is in his hands. Even without a Void Returning cultivator in charge, I'm afraid no one would dare to underestimate it easily."

"Indeed, this is a brilliant move."

"It both preserved the friendship between like-minded people and solidified the foundation of the dynasty."

"It seems we have all underestimated this crown prince... no, the new emperor who is about to ascend the throne."

...In an instant, praise for Ji Beichen was endless, which greatly enhanced his prestige and eased the unease and turmoil caused by the departure of Emperor Huangze.

After the imperial edict was issued, the relevant departments of the palace immediately began to operate efficiently, verifying identities, distributing viewing tokens, demarcating viewing areas, and setting up protective formations... everything was in good order.

The powerful figures from all sides who received permission all restrained their usual arrogance, treated the officials sent by the royal family with great courtesy, and strictly abided by the relevant regulations, for fear of losing this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by the slightest carelessness.

"Not bad!"

"The Huangze Dynasty has worthy successors!"

Upon hearing this at his residence, Li Yunjing nodded slightly.

Ji Beichen's move was indeed brilliant.

When absolute power is about to be lost, using this method to exchange for future stability and support is an extremely wise choice.

This gave him even more confidence in his new ally's governing abilities.

An ally is not a problem!
This is the best news ever!
The entire capital city, in an atmosphere of both tension and anticipation, finally welcomed the dawn of the day of ascension.

The seven-day period will soon be over.

As the first rays of dawn pierced the darkness and shone upon the majestic city walls of the capital, all the experts who had qualified to witness the ceremony had already followed the instructions and entered the designated outer area of ​​the "Imperial Secret Realm" through a specific teleportation array.

This is a huge, meticulously cleared platform located atop a relatively low mountain peak, facing the towering, ever-changing "Huangji Peak" in the distance.

A powerful transparent barrier was set up around the platform, which not only ensured a clear view but also effectively isolated any potential aftershocks of energy impact.

On the platform, the Nascent Soul True Monarchs and Nascent Soul giants, who could shake an entire continent with a stomp of their feet, were now sitting quietly cross-legged, their eyes fixed intently on the distant "Huangji Peak," waiting for that historic moment to arrive.

As an ally of the Huangze Dynasty, the Shenxiao Dao Sect has seen the emergence of its Nine Heavens True Lord, Five Elements True Lord, Divine Phoenix True Lord, and Mysterious True Lord!
People like Ming Lingchuan, Xiao Anran, Li Cangqiong, Lei Ze Zhenren, Jiuyou Zhenren... many Nascent Soul Realm cultivators have come.

If the "Shenxiao Dao Sect" didn't also need a master to oversee things, other True Immortals would have arrived long ago!
This prosperous era attracted almost 70% of the experts on the entire Tianlan Star, including the Shenxiao Dao Sect!

Apart from the previous demonic calamity, so many experts have never gathered in one place.

Even the air was filled with an almost pious solemnity.

As a special guest, Li Yunjing was positioned further forward, almost at the edge of the barrier.

Accompanying him were the Taixu Sword Master, Yu Chenzi, the Blood Demon Ancestor, the nine vice alliance leaders, the heads of the thirty-six grotto heavens, and top-level Nascent Soul Realm True Monarchs—more than seventy people in total, standing at the closest point.

He could clearly feel that at the summit of Huangji Peak, two vast auras, as boundless as the sea and faintly resonating with the entire secret realm and even the outside world, were constantly rising and condensing, like two divine bows gradually being drawn to their fullest extent, about to shoot out that earth-shattering arrow!
Ascension is about to begin!
At the summit of "Huangji Peak", Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi stood side by side, bathed in the golden light of the rising sun, like two deities.

Their auras had been adjusted to the most perfect state, harmonious and flawless, resonating deeply with the spiritual veins and laws of the entire "Imperial Extreme Secret Realm," as if they themselves were a part of this world, yet subtly transcended it.

The time is approaching.

Emperor Huangze slowly opened his eyes. His gaze was no longer limited to the peak, but swept over the powerful figures on the viewing platform in the distance.

His gaze was both peaceful and dignified. Anyone whose gaze swept over them, regardless of their cultivation level, felt a chill run down their spine and involuntarily straightened their body, holding their breath and concentrating.

"Fellow Daoists."

Emperor Huangze spoke, his voice not loud, yet it clearly penetrated every corner of the secret realm, even echoing through the barrier and resonating in the consciousness of every observer, carrying an indescribable Daoist charm.

"Today, I and the Imperial Preceptor Tianzhenzi will, atop this peak, trigger a heavenly tribulation, break through the boundary, and ascend to the highest realm in pursuit of the supreme Dao."

His tone was calm, as if he were stating an ordinary matter, but the content of his words stirred everyone's emotions.

"The path to ascension is fraught with uncertainty."

"On this journey, one may succeed and step into a wider world; or one may fail, die and perish, and all the cultivation of ten thousand years will be in vain."

"However, with the Great Dao ahead, we cultivators must strive diligently and courageously to live up to our life's path."

His words, filled with unwavering determination and a yearning for the ultimate truth, resonated with everyone present.

Immediately, Emperor Huangze changed the subject, his gaze becoming deep as he looked towards the platform, especially at the front row led by Li Yunjing, Blood Demon Ancestor, Taixu Sword Master, Yu Chenzi, and others.

"I have reigned in this world for 3,800 years, succeeding to the throne as the Emperor of the 'Huangze Dynasty' and ruling over this region. Although I dare not say that I am perfect, I have devoted my heart and soul to protecting the people of this region and passing on the Daoist tradition."

"Today I am leaving, and my only concern is for the hundreds of millions of people of the 'Huangze Dynasty' and the continuation of the Ji royal family."

He paused slightly, his voice carrying a hint of solemn entrustment:

"My son, Beichen, is about to inherit the throne."

"He is calm and responsible, but he is still relatively inexperienced and his skills are not yet at their peak."

"After my departure, the dynasty will inevitably face challenges from both within and without."

"Here, in my personal capacity, I earnestly request all fellow Daoists..."

Emperor Huangze bowed slightly towards the viewing platform.

"Out of consideration for past friendships and for the sake of being fellow cultivators of this world, if the 'Huangze Dynasty' encounters an insurmountable external force or falls into crisis in the future, I hope that you can do what you can to help it overcome the difficulties, ensure the continuation of the Ji clan's bloodline, and protect the people of the 'Huangze' continent from being ravaged."

Upon hearing this, the entire viewing platform fell silent.

Everyone understood that this was Emperor Huangze's final arrangement and plea for his dynasty and his descendants before his ascension.

A powerful being on the verge of breaking through to the next realm, so humbled himself to entrust this matter with utmost solemnity—this weight is as heavy as a mountain!

Especially those top figures he specifically looked at, and the forces they represented.

This entrustment was not only for Li Yunjing, but also for the Blood Demon Ancestor, the Taixu Sword Master, Yu Chenzi, and all the other giants.

This is an invisible constraint, and also a bond of affection.

The Blood Demon Ancestor's face was obscured by the blood mist, but the churning blood energy around him subsided slightly.

The Sword Master of Taixu's gaze remained sharp, but he nodded slightly.

Yu Chenzi stroked his beard without speaking, a knowing glint in his eyes.

The leaders of various factions in the back row also mostly wore solemn expressions, silently keeping these words in mind.

Regardless of their private schemes, at this moment, faced with the final request of a powerful figure about to undertake an unprecedented feat, no one would utter a word of objection, and most were even moved by it.

On the path of spiritual practice, who can be without attachments?
Emperor Huangze's actions were only natural.

Li Yunjing stood at the very front, meeting Emperor Huangze's gaze, and nodded solemnly once again, silently confirming his previous promise.

Seeing everyone's reaction, Emperor Huangze smiled with relief.

"In that case, I will have no more worries."

He withdrew his gaze and exchanged a glance with Tianzhenzi beside him.

Tianzhenzi nodded with a smile, and invisible array runes began to appear and flow around his body, connecting with the array foundation of the entire "Huangji Secret Realm". It was clear that he had begun to make final preparations.

"The time has come."

Emperor Huangze took a deep breath and, together with Tianzhenzi, looked up at the top of the sky.

The two of them no longer concealed their auras and erupted with a roar!

Like a giant dragon that has been sleeping for thousands of years awakening, the vast and boundless imperial dragon energy and the profound and ethereal Zhou Tian array rhythm soared into the sky, stirring up the wind and clouds and shaking the laws!

The sky above the entire "Imperial Realm Secret Realm" instantly darkened, with endless dark clouds gathering from all directions, lightning flashing within them, and a majestic heavenly might that made the souls of all the onlookers tremble began to permeate the heavens and earth!
The tribulation of ascension is about to descend!
All the spectators held their breath, their eyes fixed intently on the ever-changing peak, witnessing the most breathtaking scene on "Tianlan Star" in hundreds of thousands of years!
"boom!!!"

Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi held nothing back, unleashing their immense power at the Void Returning Realm like a bursting dam of a galaxy!

Around Emperor Huangze, countless dazzling imperial dragon energies soared into the sky, transforming into nine lifelike, scaled, five-clawed golden dragons that circled his body and emitted a dragon roar that shook the universe!
The dragon's roar contained the supreme majesty of ruling over all directions and reigning supreme over the world, as if a heavenly emperor had been resurrected and was about to tour the heavens!
The "Huangji Peak" beneath his feet resonated with him, and the entire mountain shone with golden light. The earth's dragon energy gathered wildly, providing him with a continuous source of power.

At the same time, Tianzhenzi stood tall. He did not manifest any earth-shattering phenomena, but endless mysterious runes appeared and disappeared around his body like a galaxy flowing.

These runes connect heaven and earth, drawing upon the power of the stars in the heavens. In an instant, a world-shaking array covering an area of ​​tens of thousands of miles, centered on "Huangji Peak," has taken shape!

The array's radiance intertwined with the imperial dragon's aura, coloring the entire sky in gold and white, stabilizing space, and organizing the laws, laying the first and most solid line of defense for the impending heavenly tribulation.

Two immense forces at the Void Returning level intertwined, creating a pressure that caused the entire "Imperial Extreme Secret Realm" to tremble slightly. The barrier on the viewing platform in the distance flashed wildly. Even with such a great distance and a powerful barrier, those Nascent Soul cultivators still felt difficulty breathing and their primordial spirits swayed, as if they were facing the might of heaven and earth!
The Nascent Soul True Lords also wore solemn expressions, exerting all their strength to resist, their eyes filled with shock and awe.

This is the true power of a Void Returning Grandmaster!

Normally they conceal their aura and keep a low profile, but once they unleash their full power, it is terrifying!
"Crack!!!"

As if thoroughly enraged by these two forces that challenged the Heavenly Dao, at the summit of the sky, amidst the boundless tribulation clouds that had gathered, the first tribulation lightning bolt finally completed its formation and slammed down!

That was no ordinary lightning, but a terrifying pillar of light, hundreds of feet thick, with a chaotic color, seemingly containing the primordial power of earth, fire, water, and wind!
Five Elements Primordial Tribulation Lightning!

Wherever the tribulation lightning passed, space shattered like fragile glass, revealing the pitch-black void behind it. The destructive aura sent chills down the spines of all the onlookers!
"Well done!"

Emperor Huangze laughed loudly, showing no fear. He pointed forward with his fingers like a sword!
The nine five-clawed golden dragons surrounding the body roared and merged into one, transforming into a magnificent celestial dragon that was tens of thousands of feet long and solid. It defied the heavens and opened its huge mouth, intending to devour the "Five Elements Primordial Tribulation Lightning" in one gulp!
"All formations return to their origin, the stars circulate throughout the heavens!"

Tianzhenzi made his move simultaneously. With a wave of his sleeve, countless array runes flowing around him instantly condensed, transforming into a giant star shield that blotted out the sky. The stars on the shield rotated, radiating an indestructible and eternal Daoist aura, assisting Emperor Huangze in withstanding the heavenly tribulation!

"Boom!!!"

The towering dragon and the chaotic tribulation lightning collided violently, while the giant star shield also emitted boundless light, desperately resisting the aftershocks of the tribulation lightning.

An indescribable roar erupted, and a terrifying energy storm instantly swept across the heavens and earth. The barrier around the viewing platform groaned under the strain, its light flickering. The Nascent Soul cultivators on the platform with slightly weaker cultivation were directly shaken, their blood churning and they almost vomited blood!

As the light faded, the first bolt of tribulation lightning was finally blocked.

Emperor Huangze swayed slightly, and the giant star shield set up by Tianzhenzi was also covered with cracks, but the two of them still had strong auras and sharp eyes.

However, the heavenly tribulation seemed to be completely enraged, giving the two no chance to catch their breath.

"Ouch!!!"

The eerie wind suddenly blew out from the void, ignoring the defenses of the physical body and magical treasures, and directly affected the primordial spirit and sea of ​​consciousness. This was the "Bi Wind Tribulation" that could scatter the three souls and seven spirits!
Immediately afterwards, countless inner demons and illusions arose, stirring up the deepest fears, desires, and obsessions within the cultivators' hearts, and the "inner demon tribulations" that were impossible to guard against came one after another!

Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi had solemn expressions as they guarded their spiritual altars and used their supreme Dao hearts to fight against the tribulations and inner demons.

A phantom of a jade seal appeared above Emperor Huangze's head, emanating thousands of imperial energies to protect his soul; Tianzhenzi, on the other hand, had a clear mind, reflecting all the arrays, and used the Dao of Arrays to deduce and resolve the invasion of inner demons.

But this is just the beginning!
The clouds of calamity churned, and even more terrifying energy was gathering.

Bolts of lightning, each a different color and imbued with a unique law of destruction, rained down like a storm; the void cracked open, releasing a torrent of netherworldly weak water capable of corroding all things; even fragments of time danced about, forming a bizarre "temporal turbulence"...

The power of the Ascension Tribulation far exceeded everyone's imagination. Its variety and immense power made all the spectators tremble with fear and break out in a cold sweat.

They asked themselves if they were in that situation; they probably wouldn't even survive the first wave of tribulation lightning before turning to ashes!
Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi, amidst this cataclysmic disaster, skillfully maneuvered and displayed their extraordinary abilities.

The Imperial Dragon Qi and the Zhou Tian Array Dao worked together perfectly, one focusing on offense and the other on defense; one using force to break through laws and the other using skill to neutralize force, thus struggling to resist, resolve, and obliterate one terrifying heavenly tribulation after another.

"Amazing!"

The Blood Demon Ancestor's gaze turned sinister, and he sighed.

Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi working together, supporting each other, are far stronger than someone like him who fights alone.

Among the five great Void Returning Realm experts, he was the only one left, destined to walk this path alone!
Taixu Sword Master and Yu Chenzi exchanged a glance, seemingly inspired by Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi, and decided to join forces!
The two were originally top figures in the "Luofu Continent", each in charge of a major sect. If they worked together, they might be able to emulate Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi!
Meanwhile, the other top-tier Nascent Soul True Monarchs in the "Thirty-Six Heavenly Caves" wore bitter expressions. With the outbreak of the demonic tribulation, they were left behind, missing their chance and having no possibility of breaking through to the Void Returning Realm!

This means that other top figures who want to ascend can only rely on their cultivation at the Nascent Soul stage and fight desperately!
Li Yunjing then turned his gaze to Tianzhenzi!
As a top immortal array master on "Tianlan Star", he was greatly shocked by the performance of the number one array master on "Tianlan Star"!
Such skill far surpasses his!
Li Yunjing should learn from Tian Zhenzi!
Under the varied gazes of experts—some shocked, some envious, some thoughtful, and some bitter—the ascension tribulation atop "Huangji Peak" did not cease due to the first wave of fierce attacks. Instead, it relentlessly bombarded the two figures defying the heavens with an unyielding and terrifying force.

One day, two days, three days...

Time slowly passed amidst deafening thunder, howling winds tearing through the void, and the whispers of inner demons eroding the primordial spirit.

Instead of dissipating, the calamity clouds grew thicker and heavier, their color changing from pitch black to dark purple, and then to a chilling crimson, as if the sky itself was dripping blood.

The forms of heavenly tribulations are becoming increasingly unpredictable and ever-changing.

There was the "Mountain-Suppressing Divine Thunder," which condensed into the phantom of an ancient divine mountain, crushing down with unparalleled weight; there was the "Geng Metal Thunder Fiend," which transformed into countless weapons, its sharp aura slicing through everything; there was the "Mysterious Netherworld True Water," which flowed like the backflow of the Nine Netherworlds, freezing the soul; and there was also the "Inner Fire Tribulation," which was formless and intangible, yet could trigger a backlash from the cultivator's own magical power...

Emperor Huangze and Tianzhenzi were like two small boats in the eye of a storm, bobbing up and down in the endless waves of destruction.

Emperor Huangze's imperial dragon aura was no longer as dazzling as it had been at the beginning. The nine golden dragon phantoms had dimmed and even developed cracks. His nine-dragon imperial robe was also charred and torn in many places, and the blood overflowing from the corner of his mouth had turned from red to gold, clearly indicating that his essence had been damaged.

However, the determination and imperial majesty in his eyes remained undiminished. With each move, he still carried the air of a ruler who looked down upon all things, forcefully shattering one terrifying tribulation lightning bolt after another.

Tianzhenzi brought the power of a Grandmaster of Array Dao to its extreme.

He no longer confined himself to defense, but instead used formations to create new formations and borrowed the opponent's strength to fight back.

Sometimes he would set up the "Zhou Tian Xing Dou Da Zhen" to draw on the power of the stars to weaken the heavenly tribulation; sometimes he would construct the "Liang Yi Wei Chen Zhen" to guide some of the tribulation lightning into the void; and sometimes he would use the "Xu Kong Niao Yi Zhen" to transfer the fatal attack to an uninhabited place.

His face was as pale as paper, and his body was even somewhat hunched. Clearly, his mental and magical power had been exhausted to the limit, but his eyes were frighteningly bright, as if they were burning with the last flame of life, deducing the ultimate mysteries of the heavenly tribulation and the Dao of the array.

This protracted confrontation is not only a test of their cultivation, magical treasures, and supernatural powers, but also an ultimate test of their Dao heart, will, and even the resilience of their lives.

On the viewing platform, no one was talking anymore.

Everyone was deeply shocked by this tragic yet magnificent scene, and immersed in their understanding of the Great Dao, the power of Heaven, and the limits of life.

Many Nascent Soul True Monarchs frowned, their auras fluctuating, clearly the impact of witnessing the ceremony was impacting their established limitations.

Some Nascent Soul Peak cultivators were completely captivated. Although they couldn't fully comprehend the high-level collision of laws, the indomitable and defying-fate spirit had been deeply imprinted in their hearts.

Li Yunjing reaped even greater rewards.

While resisting the remaining power of the heavenly tribulation, he fully activated the "Creation Divine Eye" and his own understanding of the Dao of Battle, observing and learning Tian Zhenzi's array formation techniques and coping strategies.

At the same time, Emperor Huangze's domineering and unparalleled fighting style, which used the imperial way to directly confront the might of heaven, also gave him a new understanding of the use of power.

He vaguely sensed that his stagnant cultivation in array formations, as well as his deeper understanding of the laws of thunder, were showing signs of loosening during this observation.

Blood Demon Ancestor's body was surrounded by swirling blood mist, his eyes filled with complex and unfathomable emotions.

The Sword Master of Taixu and Yu Chenzi exchanged glances from time to time, communicating secretly with each other through their divine senses, clearly analyzing the feasibility and details of joining forces to overcome the tribulation.

On the seventh day, as dawn broke again, the heavenly tribulation that had lasted for six days and nights and seemed endless finally began to change.

At the top of the sky, the blood-red tribulation clouds began to shrink and condense inward. All the lightning, wind, fire, weak water, inner demons... all kinds of tribulation power seemed to be forcibly mixed together by an invisible hand, turning into a chaotic lightning ball that was only a hundred feet in size, but exuded an aura that made the entire "Huangji Secret Realm" begin to collapse!
The ball of lightning slowly rotated, its core a place of absolute darkness and death, as if containing the primordial source of destruction at the beginning of creation!

"The final tribulation... Chaos Return to Nothingness Divine Lightning!"

The knowledgeable Nascent Soul True Lord cried out in alarm, his voice filled with fear.

(End of this chapter)