Starting As A Clan Leader: My Rules Are A Bit Wild

Chapter 79: The Annual Crisis Approaches! -2W

The next day, the Embracing Moon Sect had undergone a complete transformation.

With the joint efforts of several elders and the seven mascots, all twenty-five spiritual mountains had been renovated.

To say it was a renovation was actually an exaggeration.

Simply put, they had removed the grass, about three feet of soil, and most of the spiritual plants, leaving only the valuable ones, and then laid down the ones Lin Fan had brought back.

The seven mascots could only do manual labor.

But the elders had their spells to assist them, so their efficiency was extremely high.

When the people from the other six sects arrived and saw the abundant spiritual energy emanating from the Embracing Moon Sect, they were all amazed.

"Is this the Embracing Moon Sect?!"

"No, something's not right!"

"Why is the spiritual energy of the Embracing Moon Sect so abundant?"

"Palace Master Wang, even with the Spirit Vein blessing of your Jade Unicorn Palace, it's not as good as this, right?"

Since they had communicated in advance, they had come together. At this moment, everyone looked at Wang Yulin and waited for his answer.

"It's true," Wang Yulin did not hide it and sighed, "Although the mine is good, the vein in my Jade Unicorn Palace is ultimately too small. The amount of spiritual energy it can provide is limited and not much."

The leaders of the other five sects rolled their eyes and thought to themselves, "You don't know how fortunate you are to be in such a good situation."

"We haven't even gotten what we want yet!"

Who knew that Wang Yulin would continue, "Not to mention our Jade Unicorn Palace, a few days ago, I visited a second-rate sect, and the spiritual energy in various places in their sect was not necessarily as rich as the Embracing Moon Sect's!"

"Except for those important spiritual peaks, which are more abundant."

When they heard this, they were even more surprised.

The Sect Master of the Five Thunder Sect, Zhang Wen, asked with emotion, "I was just thinking about that."

"The spiritual energy at the entrance of the Embracing Moon Sect is no longer what it should be in our realm. Could it be the work of the Liu family?"

After a brief exchange, they were even more surprised.

If it was really the work of the Liu family, wouldn't it mean that the Liu family attached great importance to the Embracing Moon Sect?

When they arrived outside the sect gate, Murong Pipa and Zuo Qingqing had been waiting for a long time.

Although they had not been of much use in the past, they had now become inner disciples and, with the accumulation of elixirs, had reached the Condensing Essence realm, Second Layer. It wasn't too bad.

At least it was enough to be "gatekeeper disciples."

"Please, everyone."

The two of them were nervous, but they didn't show any fear. They invited the group of people into the Embracing Moon Sect.

...

Main Peak of the Embracing Moon Sect.

Lin Fan eagerly awaited, with the five elders standing in a row behind him, like statues.

Seeing that the people had arrived, he immediately greeted them with a smile, "You have come from afar, and I apologize for not welcoming you properly. Please forgive me, please forgive me!"

Wang Yulin, Zhang Wen, and the others were speechless.

You threatened us so much in the invitation, but now that we're here, you're welcoming us with such a smile and even prepared spiritual tea and fruits?

This contrast really makes it hard for us to adapt, right?!

They were secretly on guard.

Little did they know that Lin Fan also had his own difficulties.

The Embracing Moon Sect had been doing so poorly before, with such a bad reputation, that even if he spoke nicely, advised them kindly, or even humbled himself to invite them, they might not have come.

Even if they did come, they would probably just send an elder to perfunctorily greet them and consider it a formality.

But what he had to do was a big deal~

He could only threaten them a bit to make the people in charge come.

He believed they would understand.

Seeing that they were not very enthusiastic, Lin Fan was not in a hurry. He just happily shook hands with them, making them even more confused.

"For you all to give face and come, from now on, we are brothers!"

"Yes, and sisters," Chen Bixuan, the Valley Master of the Illusory Spirit Valley, said with a smile.

I'm already seven or eight hundred years old, and you're calling me sister?

Are you trying to take advantage of me?

Zhang Wen, Wang Yulin, and the others were also uncomfortable.

Why are we suddenly brothers?!

This is our first meeting, who told you to be so enthusiastic!

You skipped the part where you call me Sect Master XX, Brother XX, or Fellow Daoist XX, and went straight to calling me brother?!

Wang Teng raised an eyebrow, feeling quite unhappy.

What does this mean?!

You're about the same age as me, and your cultivation is only at the Third Realm, Fourth Layer. Yet, you call me brother? Doesn't that mean I'm suddenly shorter for no reason?!

He immediately said, "Master Lin, the seniors are busy with important matters. If you have something to say, please get to the point and don't waste time with idle talk!"

"Who are you?" Lin Fan blinked.

"I'm Wang Teng, your son," Wang Yulin introduced.

Lin Fan's expression suddenly became strange as he muttered, "Posture of the Great Emperor?"

Wang Yulin and the people of Yulin Palace, known for their sharp ears, couldn't help but change their expressions after hearing these words.

How did this news leak?!

Could it be that Lin Fan has some secret method that allows him to see through others at a glance?!

Noticing their change in expression, Lin Fan was even more surprised.

Wow, could it be that not only do we share the same name, but he really has the "Posture of the Great Emperor"?!

However, Lin Fan didn't have any thoughts about it.

Whether we share the same name or whether he really has the Posture of the Great Emperor, we can't accept this person!

We shouldn't let him come over.

However...

Lin Fan directly bypassed this topic and smiled, "Nephew's words are correct. As the sect master, we naturally have many important matters to attend to. Isn't this the time to discuss important matters?"

Wang Teng was annoyed and wanted to argue, but was stopped by Wang Yulin.

After all, they were adults and more mature.

"Master Lin, we have already come. Just say what you have to say."

"Oh! Don't be so formal. We are all brothers. Why call me Master Lin?" Lin Fan said again, "As for what I want to say, it concerns the future of our sects and is of utmost importance!"

"These miscellaneous people..."

Lin Fan glanced at Wang Teng.

The latter was furious, "Who are you calling miscellaneous people?!"

"Tenger!"

Wang Yulin restrained him again.

"You step back first."

Wang Teng endured and stepped back, gritting his teeth.

Lin Fan waved his hand and set up a soundproof barrier before saying, "I think we should cooperate."

"Why?" Zhang asked.

Wang Yulin directly said, "This cooperation is probably not equal."

The meaning was clear. Our Yulin Palace has over three thousand disciples, while your Embracing Moon Sect has less than twenty people in total. Are you worthy?

"Whether it's equal or not, let's listen first," Lin Fan said leisurely, "I believe you have all heard of Xiao Ling'er's name, right?"

The six sect masters and elders all nodded.

The matter of the Swallowing Fire Daoist's tomb had caused a sensation, and even though the most attention was on Long Aotian killing Yumo, Xiao Ling'er's name was also mentioned repeatedly.

Coupled with the previous Pill Refining Conference, they were so close to each other that they naturally heard something.

It would be too fake to say they didn't know Xiao Ling'er.

"The champion of the Pill Refining Conference, and now she has the Strange Fire's blessing."

"Don't tell me you all have no thoughts?" Lin Fan asked.

The expressions of the crowd became more active, and they speculated about the deeper meaning behind Lin Fan's words.

Chen Bixuan from the Illusion Spirit Valley smiled, "Of course we have thoughts, but our Illusion Spirit Valley can restrain her. If you, Master Lin, are just testing us, there's no need."

This was also the truth.

It would be a lie to say they weren't moved, but they didn't dare to make a move!

The other five sect masters also nodded one after another.

There was nothing wrong with this statement.

"Too small-minded!" Lin Fan shook his head, "I'm not testing you, nor am I setting a trap for you to jump into. I am an honest person, I speak directly, without so much twisting and turning."

"What I mean is, let's cooperate."

"You agree to certain conditions, provide the corresponding materials, and I will let Xiao Ling'er refine pills for you, guaranteeing a quality of at least Sixth Grade."

"Condensing Essence Pill, Profound Essence Pill, Grotto-Heaven Pill, and even... Finger Mystic Pill."

Lin Fan looked at everyone and saw their change in expression before continuing, "All of this is not a problem."

"For this, we can make a solemn oath."

Hiss!

The elders of the six sects were secretly surprised and took a cold breath!

Before this, when they saw the invitation, they were all furious and extremely unhappy. They all wanted to show Lin Fan and the Embracing Moon Sect some color.

It was only because of the Liu family that they reluctantly came, but they didn't plan to give Lin Fan any good face.

But now, when they heard this, most of their anger dissipated.

Why be angry? What's there to be angry about?!

They looked at Lin Fan with burning eyes.

If what this guy said was true, then they were all brothers!!

The six sect masters, however, were more cautious in their thoughts and remained on guard.

Wang Yulin pondered, "I don't know, what conditions does your sect require us to agree to?"

"Don't worry, don't worry~!" Lin Fan guessed that they would be tempted, but would restrain themselves. He knew that this move was stable.

But it was also normal because this realm was really poor.

Resources are already extremely scarce, and they are all third-rate sects. Even the best Yu Lin Palace only has a small mine, and all kinds of resources are extremely scarce.

Lack of resources naturally means a lack of talent.

High-quality elixirs? Even more scarce!

The Liu family values them greatly, let alone them?

To refine Sixth Grade or higher elixirs for them, the allure is too great.

In Lin Fan's view, it's like ancient times on Earth thousands of years ago, when the emperor conscripted laborers to build the Great Wall and provided them with three meals of pig's feet every day, ensuring they were well-fed...

With this, they still need to worry about rebellion and dissatisfaction?

What a joke!

However, Lin Fan cannot be careless here. They will certainly be willing, but whether they will 'rebel' is uncertain, so the oath of the Dao Heart must be binding.

Lin Fan happily said, "We are all brothers, how could I harm my brothers?"

"I am not that kind of person!"

"The conditions, in fact, there are only three."

"First, you must act as spies for the Embracing Moon Sect. If there is any movement around, you must pass on the information to us, even if it's just a passing powerful individual!"

Consider it a 'warning system'.

These six sects happen to surround the Embracing Moon Sect. When something happens, they can provide early warning, allowing the Embracing Moon Sect to prepare in advance.

The people of the six sects glanced at each other and could see each other's thoughts.

This is a small matter!

They can agree.

Lin Fan is not in a hurry and continues, "Second..."

"If our Embracing Moon Sect needs manpower, you must help out."

"You don't have to risk your lives, but when it's your turn to take action, you must not be sloppy. You won't have to deal with opponents of higher cultivation levels than yourselves."

"And I will make a Dao Heart oath. If it's a life-or-death situation, I will not let you participate."

The second condition made them pensive.

There is risk!

They can all understand that this is equivalent to tying themselves to the Embracing Moon Sect's ship and wearing the same pants. Whether they can agree or not still needs to be considered.

"As for the third..."

"Externally, the seven sects must declare unity. After all, if you agree to the first two conditions, there is not much difference between us and being united."

"If you agree to these three conditions, everything else is just trivial matters. You can discuss it among yourselves, and if you agree, we can continue the conversation."

Boom.

The sect masters and elders of the six sects immediately started discussing.

They were all somewhat excited, but also worried.

Lin Fan happily watched without urging.

The five elders kept their eyes on their noses and their noses on their hearts.

Their minds were full of question marks.

They couldn't understand why Lin Fan would do this. Isn't he cultivating his own opponents?

But they tacitly chose not to speak up. They agreed silently, at least they couldn't hold back.

But Lin Fan had a clear idea.

The first two conditions are not worth mentioning. It's just providing the Embracing Moon Sect with a warning system and a group of enforcers. These enforcers may not be able to accomplish much, but with the support of their elixirs, they should be able to deal with some small fry.

In this way, the Embracing Moon Sect doesn't have to spend too much time on these trivial matters.

As for the third...

Lin Fan is also testing.

Since they announced their alliance externally and their territories are closely connected, if an Apex Level expert were to make a move, is it highly probable that they would attack all seven sects at the same time?

For example, a Dao Integration Realm expert or above, with a single strike, could affect thousands of miles and wipe out all the territories of the seven sects!

And this kind of person, if they were to attack the Embracing Moon Sect alone and attack all seven sects at the same time, the results... should be different, right?

Luck!

This thing is elusive.

But it does exist.

Lin Fan feels that his own luck is probably negative.

There's no way around it. There's already a small crisis every year and a major crisis every ten years. Now, with a few village destroyers added to the mix, can luck be positive?

He doesn't believe it himself!

But other sects might!

Who knows, there might be some geniuses with good luck among them.

By binding them to his own ship, perhaps...

Luck can be shared.

For example, with this Posture of the Great Emperor.

After Lin Fan's gaze lingered on Wang Teng for a moment, he quietly withdrew it.

The latter felt Lin Fan's gaze and couldn't help but widen his eyes.

"It's a pity, he's not the one I remember, but since he has such talent, he must have some luck."

"On average, there will be some benefits."

"Even if his luck is negative, I don't believe it can be more negative than the Embracing Moon Sect."

If digitized, the maximum luck Wang Teng brings to the sect is negative one, while Xiao Ling'er starts at negative ten!

No matter how you calculate it, it's not a loss.

And there are quite a few people from these seven sects, there must be at least ten thousand, what if there is someone with higher luck? The benefits would be even more obvious, right?

Of course, these are just Lin Fan's speculations, and there is currently no way to confirm them.

But there's no harm in trying.

As for cultivating competitors, Lin Fan is not worried at all.

As long as Embracing Moon Sect is still around, as long as disciples of the protagonist template have not died out, what is there to fear?

Besides, there are no other restrictions.

Soon, the representatives of the six sects finished their discussion, but instead of giving a reply, Chen Bixuan, as their representative, said, "Please explain the other conditions in detail, Master Lin."

"I need to consider everything."

"Alright."

Lin Fan immediately listed out all the "insignificant details."

"All of you present here must make a solemn vow not to betray Embracing Moon Sect in any form."

"You cannot claim that the pills come from Embracing Moon Sect. I don't care how you explain it to others, whether you refine them yourself, dig them out of the ground, or even find them on a tree, I don't care."

"We are only acting as the refiners, but the success rate of higher-grade pills is lower, and Sixth Grade and above pills are even rarer. Therefore, two sets of materials are required to exchange for one pill, otherwise we would be at a loss."

"And also..."

One condition after another was proposed by Lin Fan.

They all seemed like insignificant small conditions, but when added together, they imposed many restrictions on them.

But they didn't want to miss this opportunity!

They were too poor!

High-quality pills were too expensive. Now that Lin Fan was just one step away from presenting the pills, they naturally couldn't help but be tempted, but they hesitated because of the risks involved.

As for exchanging two sets of materials for one pill, they didn't see any problem with that.

Sixth Grade and above, how difficult is it to cultivate?

Not to mention two attempts, even if they let their own alchemists try, they might not succeed even after ten, twenty, or even a hundred attempts!

Otherwise, high-quality pills wouldn't be so rare and expensive!

Exchanging two sets for one pill would be a profit for themselves.

It was indeed troublesome and risky, not to mention the incident with Spirit Sword Sect, which made them hesitate.

But if they missed this opportunity, they might not have another chance.

They were anxiously contemplating whether or not to agree.

Chen Bixuan, Zhang Wenda, and others communicated silently with their divine senses.

"What do you think?"

"If we agree, we will be considered sister sects with Embracing Moon Sect."

"I want to agree, but the risk is too great. I want to hear your opinions."

"I feel the same way."

"Yulin Palace is the strongest, but I estimate that he won't agree, so let's talk behind his back..."

They were pondering.

But they didn't expect that Wang Yulin, whom they thought was the least likely to agree, would decisively respond, "Master Lin, Yulin Palace is willing to cooperate!"

Chen Bixuan and the other five were stunned, then looked at him in astonishment, their faces full of confusion.

He agreed just like that???

And it's Yulin Palace?

But Wang Yulin had his own considerations.

Indeed, Yulin Palace was the strongest and the wealthiest sect among the six sects, but it had many disciples and required a large investment! Moreover... my son, Wang Teng, has the Posture of the Great Emperor!

His talent was unparalleled, even suspected to be the reincarnation of an ancient immortal. His cultivation progressed rapidly, and his combat power was terrifying, but it also consumed a lot of resources! Wang Yulin had been struggling with this for a while.

But today, he suddenly received good news. How could he not agree?

Risks?

Haha, there are indeed risks, but as long as there is a sufficient supply of high-quality pills, Wang Yulin is confident that his talented son can soar to the sky and crush all enemies!

Only the weak fear risks.

But my son, Wang Teng, is destined to forge an invincible path with risks, crises, and countless formidable enemies.

What's there to be afraid of?!

Just do it!

This is a big profit!

Moreover, he had long wanted to take advantage of a big sect, but there was no suitable one. But Embracing Moon Sect is perfect!

Their strength is not strong, easy to control, and they took the initiative to seek cooperation...

Could there be anything more suitable?

Lin Fan, Master Lin?

The greeting was too disrespectful, and he wanted to fight him?!

Nonsense!

He is my beloved relative, my brother!

Wang Yulin's eyes were burning with excitement.

Although the elders of the Yulin Palace were surprised, they did not refute.

They were originally conflicted, wanting to agree but also feeling hesitant. Now that the Palace Master had made a decision, they were too lazy to continue hesitating and began to ponder.

"Afterwards, can I also get a few high-quality pills to eat?"

"Perhaps, I can even make further progress?!"

The people from the Illusory Spirit Valley and the Five Thunder Sect couldn't sit still either.

The strongest in the Yulin Palace had agreed, so what reason did they have to refuse?

Although they didn't know why they agreed so readily, there must be some hidden reason behind it!

Perhaps their own cultivation was not enough, or they couldn't comprehend it for a moment and miscalculated the gains and losses.

But... following the Yulin Palace would definitely not be a loss!

Otherwise, not only would they not be able to obtain high-quality pills, but they would also be resented by the Embracing Moon Sect. There was a high probability that they would have to join the Liu family and the Yulin Palace, which was not worth it.

"We agree," Zhang Wen said as the second person to speak up.

Chen Bixuan also unwillingly said, "Most of us in the Illusory Spirit Valley are weak women. We will need your care in the future."

The leaders of the remaining Ziping Cave, Blood Blade Gate, and Scarlet Flame Sect also agreed.

Lin Fan immediately smiled, "Good, good, it should be like this."

"From now on, we are all brothers."

"Our sects are also brother sects. We share honor and loss together..."

"Let's make a solemn vow. I'll go first."

He went over and stood shoulder to shoulder with Wang Yulin and Chen Bixuan.

It wasn't to take advantage of Chen Bixuan, but because they were sitting next to each other~

Then, he took the lead and made a solemn vow, clearly stating everything he had mentioned earlier.

Wang Yulin, Chen Bixuan, and the others naturally followed suit and made a solemn vow.

With this, everyone had a clear understanding in their hearts and no longer needed to be overly guarded. Their smiles became more sincere.

They leaned on each other intimately, showing a close bond.

Wang Teng was dumbfounded!

What was going on?!

Why were they all getting along with this kid?

Weren't they all angry when they came?

Could it be that I'm dreaming?!

He furrowed his brows, feeling that something was not right.

But he couldn't hear what Lin Fan and the others were talking about. Wang Yulin kept reminding him not to act recklessly, making him extremely uncomfortable at the moment.

Lin Fan happily invited them to stay for a few days, but they all said they had things to do and had to hurry back.

They were eager to quickly send a batch of medicinal materials to exchange for pills!

Lin Fan understood, so he didn't insist.

Although he had only mentioned it casually.

Ahem.

"Brothers, rest assured!"

Wang Yulin patted his chest loudly, "After I go back, I will make the necessary arrangements and fulfill what I promised you!"

"We will do the same!"

"I believe in that."

Lin Fan said he absolutely trusted them.

Since they had made a solemn vow, he naturally believed them.

Unless they all wanted to die and were prepared for their Dao Heart to collapse and die, they would secretly send him a message.

After watching the "silent play" for a long time, suddenly there was sound.

But he suddenly heard his father calling Lin Fan his brother and agreeing to something?!

Wang Teng's brows furrowed even deeper, feeling even more unhappy.

But before he could say anything, Wang Yulin and the other elders pulled him down the mountain, and then they rushed all the way...

The people from the other five sects did the same, quickly disappearing into the horizon, which made Wang Teng somewhat displeased.

"Dad, why did you call that bastard Lin Fan your brother?"

"Could it be that he drugged you with something?!"

"Don't talk nonsense!"

Wang Yulin immediately frowned, "Master Lin is my good brother!"

Wang Teng: "???"

Are you confused?

He almost blurted out.

You call him brother? Then that bastard will become my uncle from now on, and I will be short for no reason?

"I can't accept it!"

"Why is that?"

He wanted to get to the bottom of it.

But Wang Yulin said seriously, "Tenger, you must not interfere in this matter. In short, from today onwards, our seven sects will form an alliance!"

"In the future, your future is destined to be smooth!"

"Your father's intentions are for your own good. You will understand in the future."

Wang Yulin's calculations were clear.

No matter what, he couldn't let 'our son' be hindered by resource issues!

But he also couldn't let him know his calculations, otherwise, it might cause flaws in his Dao heart. For someone like him, even a slight flaw would be extremely fatal!

So~~~

Let himself be the bad guy.

Moreover, he wasn't entirely a bad person. The elixirs were obtained through materials and effort.

It's just that they didn't know that their son had the Posture of the Great Emperor!

Thinking of this, Wang Yulin suddenly remembered that Lin Fan had muttered about the Posture of the Great Emperor?

Could it be...

Are there spies in the palace?!

At this moment, he couldn't care about comforting Wang Teng anymore. He couldn't help but think about who the spy was and how to find them.

Wang Teng was completely dumbfounded.

I've been left in the dark for no reason, and they won't even tell me why!?

He looked at the elders.

But the elders shook their heads and refused to speak.

How could they say it?!

Although they were all from the same sect, who wouldn't want to get a few high-quality elixirs?

If they told Wang Teng, he would probably demand more elixirs~

······

After the six sect masters returned, they immediately started to take action.

First, they issued a "joint declaration" to the outside world, announcing the alliance of the seven sects.

Then they arranged special attention to any "movement of the wind". Once there was news, they immediately used sound-transmitting jade symbols to send it to Embracing Moon Sect.

However, since they were all third-rate sects, strictly speaking, their influence was limited to their own territory, so the news spread slowly.

Fortunately, the seven sects combined had a population of less than ten thousand, and they were also related to Embracing Moon Sect. Moreover, Embracing Moon Sect had become quite famous recently, so at the beginning, the news spread slowly, but as time went on, it spread faster and faster...

Many forces and cultivators who heard the news were surprised.

"Yulin Palace, Illusory Spirit Valley... What kind of soup have these six sects been drinking?"

"They have such courage. Embracing Moon Sect is destined to be destroyed, yet they still form an alliance with them. Are they not afraid of offending Spirit Sword Sect?"

"There must be hidden motives behind this!"

"Nonsense, who doesn't know that?"

"I have seen Wang Yulin before, he is also a remarkable figure. It's a pity that he was born in the wrong place. If he can handle this matter, it proves that there must be something going on!"

"Could it be related to the Liu family? If the Liu family is oppressing them, Yulin Palace won't be spared either, right?"

"That's not impossible..."

Most people had their own speculations, but most forces didn't pay too much attention to it.

Because it had nothing to do with them.

They wanted to make a move against Embracing Moon Sect but didn't dare to, after all, Spirit Sword Sect had already issued a stern warning.

So, they only knew about it.

But Yunxiao Valley paid special attention to it.

When the valley master Yun Ruofu heard the news, his expression turned cold. "Embracing Moon Sect..."

"They killed my seventh brother and destroyed my direct disciple, and now they want to expand?"

He narrowed his eyes and his thoughts raced.

With Spirit Sword Sect present, he didn't dare to directly attack Embracing Moon Sect, but the martial world was not just about fighting and killing, it was more about human relationships and worldly affairs.

Just because Yunxiao Valley couldn't make a move, didn't mean that no one else could.

"Summon someone!"

"I will write a letter and send it to Haoyue Sect."

"Yes, Valley Master."

···

After a while, when he saw the elders leaving, Yun Ruofu sneered.

"I don't know why Haoyue Sect didn't take advantage of your illness to take your life, but it seems that they only wanted to preserve their reputation. Moreover, Embracing Moon Sect has been declining over the years, so they didn't need to take action."

"But now, they seem to have a resurgence. They probably won't just sit idly by."

···

Hongwu Immortal City.

After receiving the news, the Chen family, one of the three major families, immediately gathered many high-level members for a discussion.

"This matter is definitely related to the Liu family."

"Although Embracing Moon Sect has a resurgence, it is not enough to make Yulin Palace and the other six sects bow down. There must be secret assistance from the Liu family."

"But this move by the Liu family reveals their ambitious nature, it's obvious!"

"Our three major families have been dominating Hongwu Immortal City for many years. Apart from the City Lord's Mansion, our three families have the greatest power and strength. However, we are also wary of each other, maintaining a delicate balance. No one can do anything to the other."

"Now, with this move by the Liu family, they want to break the balance."

"Seven factions forming an alliance, with nearly a hundred spiritual mountains and nearly ten thousand disciples, and more than twenty strong individuals above the Fifth Realm in the open. They will inevitably continue to expand..."

"As this alliance grows stronger, it poses a significant threat to our Chen family. They have colluded with the Liu family for a long time, and this tripartite situation will not last."

"Yes, we cannot let this matter go unchecked."

"Contact the Jiang family. They will certainly not want to see the rise of the Liu family. Let us temporarily join forces with them!"

"However, the Embracing Moon Sect has issued a statement forbidding outsiders from interfering, which complicates matters."

"Then let's not touch the Embracing Moon Sect for now. Instead, let's take down the Jade Unicorn Palace and the other six factions. What can the Embracing Moon Sect, which is destined to be destroyed, do?"

"Exactly! By destroying the Jade Unicorn Palace and the other six factions, we can also deter other forces and let them know that forming an alliance with the Liu family is a dead end. But we need to involve the Jiang family in this matter. It wouldn't make sense for only our Chen family and the Liu family to fight while the Jiang family reaps the benefits."

"..."

"Jiang family."

Jiang Wuwei, the family head, looked at the Chen family representative and smiled lightly, "You may withdraw for now. We will contact you after our discussion."

The elder of the Chen family nodded and withdrew for the time being.

Jiang Wuwei chuckled, "Chen Qingquan, that old fox, is indeed as we suspected. He doesn't want to take action himself and wants to involve us."

"That's fine."

"Although there may be some conflicts, the balance between the three families must not be easily broken."

"Tell the Chen family later that we agree. Then, let's start preparing."

"Let's destroy the six factions..."

It seemed like a trivial matter.

As for worries, they didn't really have any.

The three major families had existed for many years, and although there were ups and downs, no one could truly destroy another. At the same time, they all wanted to eliminate the other two families and become the sole dominant force.

Join forces with one of them?

Without absolute certainty that they could destroy the third family and eliminate the remaining one, they dared not easily join forces.

After all...

A triangle is stable.

Ah, should I say a tripartite balance, a more "peaceful" one?

The Embracing Moon Sect cannot be destroyed, but the six factions... can they be considered expendable?

But they couldn't be too careless either, as the Liu family would definitely be on guard.

Pausing for a moment, Jiang Wuwei continued, "Also, tell the Chen family not to be impatient. We will each do our part to find out what preparations the Liu family has made before taking targeted action."

"If we don't make a move, everything will be fine. But once we do, we must completely destroy the six factions, and it would be best to cripple the Liu family as well!"

"Yes, family head."

...

"Lin brother."

"Lin brother, please place the spirit stones. Lin brother, I have urgent matters to discuss with you."

"Lin brother~"

Liu Xun was "knocking on the door."

Upon hearing the rumors outside that the Liu family was assisting, they weren't as confused as before. Instead, they instantly realized that the Embracing Moon Sect had used elixirs to win over the Jade Unicorn Palace and the other six major sects.

But this didn't mean they could ignore it. On the contrary, they were very worried.

Lin Fan, on the other hand, didn't avoid them.

Casually putting away the teleportation array's spirit stones, he soon saw Liu Xun rushing over in a hurry.

"Lin brother, what is this about?"

He forced a smile.

At the same time, he regretted it a bit.

He had just sent the information about the surrounding forces yesterday, and today he formed an alliance with them, using elixirs as bait?

No matter how he looked at it, he seemed to be at a loss!

Lin Fan happily said, "Don't worry, Liu brother. The Liu family won't be short of a single elixir. We will still prioritize supplying you. After all, I have made a solemn vow and will never go back on my word."

"That's not what I'm worried about."

Liu Xun's bitter smile deepened. "We can understand Lin brother's actions. As the saying goes, the more friends, the more paths. It's better to have many friends than to have the whole world as enemies."

"However, this move seems inappropriate to us, the Liu family."

"It is highly likely to make the Chen and Jiang families uneasy and prompt them to take action."

"They may not dare to make a move against the Embracing Moon Sect, but the Jade Unicorn Palace, the Illusion Spirit Valley, and the other six factions... I'm afraid..."

Pausing for a moment, Liu Xun lowered his voice, "We, the Liu family, are not worried about the life or death of those six factions. We are afraid that the elixirs you have given them will be wasted."

"It's not worth it."

"They are all inferior products, so it doesn't matter."

Lin Fan said without concern.

In fact, he wasn't worried at all.

Liu Xun's words made sense, but the six factions themselves were aware of the risks. Since they were willing to agree, it meant that they were prepared to take on the risks.

Moreover, he sought them out precisely to "share the risks."

Even if they were truly gone...

Ahem.

Perhaps the Embracing Moon Sect could still pick up a few spiritual mountains?

But he couldn't say that.

Lin Fan didn't intend to trap them to death, but it can only be said that this is one of the results.

In other words...

Regardless, Embracing Moon Sect is not at a loss.

Liu Xun still felt that it wasn't worth it. After thinking it over, he finally decided to invite Liu Er Ye to sit in and be ready to rush over and support the alliance if there are any movements.

...

Several days later.

"Dad."

Wang Teng finished his cultivation and looked at Wang Yulin in front of him, still with an unpleasant expression.

Unwilling!

Why should he be shorter than the younger generation?

"Teng'er, good news."

Wang Yulin smiled, "Today, I was lucky to find an opportunity outside and actually picked up a jade bottle. Inside it are high-quality pills that are perfect for you."

"Quickly take it and improve your strength."

Wang Teng was delighted and immediately took it. Looking at the 'halo' on it that represented its quality, he couldn't help but raise his head proudly and say, "Indeed, it's a good thing!"

"With the assistance of this pill, when the day comes for our child to dominate the world, we will be one step closer!"

"Of course, quickly take it. I will protect you."

Wang Yulin was very hopeful.

He had always hoped for his son to become successful. Now that his son had the potential, he naturally wanted to cultivate him well.

...

Inside Embracing Moon Palace, Lin Fan received the Hundred Forging Divine Fire and smiled.

"These six sects do have some background, at least they have some materials."

Lin Fan didn't let Xiao Ling'er handle the pills for the six sects, but did it himself.

Although he didn't have an alchemy furnace, he had the Strange Fire, which could be used as a furnace to refine pills. After sharing Xiao Ling'er's power, alchemy became a familiar process. He could easily refine pills without wasting materials, and the success rate was terrifyingly high.

Even so, Lin Fan still had to restrain himself a little in order to refine Sixth Grade pills. Otherwise, most of them would be Seventh or Eighth Grade, or even Ninth Grade.

These good things shouldn't be given to them for now.

Sixth Grade is enough!

And the pills they exchanged for were mostly Profound Essence Pills, Grotto-Heaven Pills, and Finger Mystic Pills.

There weren't many Finger Mystic Pills, only a total of sixteen from the six sects.

There were quite a few Grotto-Heaven Pills, totaling more than a hundred.

There were nearly four hundred Profound Essence Pills.

As for Condensing Essence Pills...

Sorry, for ordinary or mediocre sects, Second Condensing Essence Realm cultivators don't have the qualifications to take pills. They either refine some beneficial medicinal powder for cultivation themselves or slowly absorb spiritual energy with a few spirit stones.

Lin Fan only used two sets of Finger Mystic Pill materials, five sets of Grotto-Heaven Pill materials, and more than forty sets of Profound Essence Pill materials to successfully refine all the pills they needed.

The rest was pure profit.

"Xiao Ling'er's alchemy skills are indeed amazing. Or rather, the old man in her necklace is really impressive."

These pills were the most common cultivation pills, and Lin Fan had plenty of experience in refining them. So after sharing his power with Xiao Ling'er, the process became familiar and he rarely failed. The success rate was terrifyingly high.

In addition, he could refine four or five pills in one furnace, or even eight or nine pills.

Looking at the many materials he had gained, Lin Fan's smile gradually brightened.

"Now, this is what I call profit."

These materials could be refined by himself or given to Xiao Ling'er in the future. They were all good things.

Even if he wanted to exchange them for money!

"Speaking of which, I should also prepare for breaking through to the Fourth Realm."

With the support of Xiao Ling'er and Fan Jianqiang's talents, as well as his own insignificant talent, Lin Fan's leveling speed was extremely fast.

Now, his cultivation had already reached the Third Profound Essence Realm Ninth Layer. Although he hadn't reached the peak yet, with more pills, the gap wouldn't be too far.

"In the fantasy and immortal cultivation world, strength is always the most important factor."

"With the six sects acting as 'lookouts' outside, as 'human warning devices,' I can relax a little. But I can't skip the daily divination."

Lin Fan decided to learn divination from Fan Jianqiang.

Every day, he would use the Great Divination Technique to divine.

The goal was the 'crisis' six months later!

Before long, Lin Fan began his operation.

The Great Divination Technique was activated, but soon, Lin Fan was surprised!

"This??"

"Isn't it too big?"

He was speechless.

The essence of the Great Divination Technique could be seen as 'insight into cause and effect.' Therefore, when divining, it was necessary to break the cause and effect and bear the consequences!

The manifestation of this was that during divination, a golden ball of cause and effect would appear in the sea of consciousness.

Breaking it would yield results and reveal the divination. The smaller the cause and effect of the divination, the smaller the ball of cause and effect, and the easier it would be to break it and bear the consequences.

On the other hand, if the cause and effect were too big, the ball of cause and effect would also be larger, making it more difficult to break and the consequences more severe.

But at this moment...

The causal group in Lin Fan's sea of knowledge is terrifying!!!

Rather than calling it a group, it's more like a planet, a radiant sun!!!

Compared to it, Lin Fan is like a tiny ant.

He can even feel the terrifying causality crushing down on him, as if his whole body will be shattered in the next second.

Can I break and bear this fucking thing?!

Why would I want to calculate this kind of ghostly thing?!

Lin Fan is stunned.

Can this hold up at all?!

Previously, calculating the Swallowing Fire Daoist's tomb was a breeze...

But this time, not to mention getting a result, just looking at it almost made me lose my life?!

Fuck!

Lin Fan quickly ends the deduction and withdraws his consciousness from the sea of knowledge.

Even so, his vest is already soaked, and he can't help but gasp for breath.

"What the hell is this amazing thing?!"

While Lin Fan is surprised, he falls into contemplation.

Is it because the crisis is too terrifying, and the causality it carries is so amazing, or... I can't 'spoil' the crisis, I can't touch this rule, so it becomes so terrifying?!

Lin Fan cannot know the exact result, but he knows that this thing cannot be counted.

If he had been one second later just now, he would probably have completely lost himself in his sea of knowledge and become a walking corpse.

Regretful!

"Fine, I won't count this thing anymore, can't I?"

"Damn it, cultivate!"

The next day, Lin Fan went to the Sutra Pavilion, categorizing the techniques, secret arts, and other things sent by the Liu family.

He wanted to chat with Fan Jianqiang, but he didn't know where this guy had 'steadily' gone, so he didn't look for him. He just quickly returned to the Embracing Moon Palace and began to practice with all his might, striving to break through the fourth realm as soon as possible.

At the same time, under the guidance of Xiao Ling'er, Liang Danxia diligently practiced.

Elder Li Changshou, Chen Erzhu, and Duan Qingyao have been in seclusion all the time and have not gone out to fight in the wild.

They don't need to go out to fight for the time being.

The medicinal materials were sent by the Liu family and the Six Sects, and there is currently no shortage of elemental stones.

There are no external enemies harassing them.

There is also an abundant supply of high-quality elixirs, coupled with the current spiritual energy of the Embracing Moon Sect far surpassing the past, this kind of cultivation environment is something they never dared to imagine before.

Because of this, they cherish this rare time even more...

They almost put their lives on the line to cultivate and break through!

And in such diligent cultivation, their progress is also exceptionally fast.

One month passed.

The three elders successively entered the fifth realm!

At this point, five of the Embracing Moon Sect elders, except for the second elder Wu Xingyun who was injured in his origin and unable to make further progress, have all stepped into the fifth Finger Mystic realm, and their strength has skyrocketed!

On this day, the five elders were almost in tears. They gathered together, and the Grand Elder Su Xinghai personally poured wine for them, with an indescribable look of emotion on his face: "You have all made breakthroughs, and the second elder still has hope."

"I didn't expect it."

He smiled bitterly, "We didn't want to take the blame, but we never expected that the Sect Master we pushed out, who was like a duck to the rack, would have such ability!"

"Yes." Li Changshou sighed, "All thanks to the Sect Master, I thought reaching the Fourth Grotto-Heaven Realm Ninth Layer in this lifetime was already the limit, but I didn't expect to go further!"

Chen Erzhu didn't say much, but his excitement and emotion were also evident.

Duan Qingyao pursed her lips, "I had given up before, waiting for the last moment to come. But now, I see hope again, and... in my whole life, I have never had such anticipation for the future of the Embracing Moon Sect."

"We have been sinking for tens of thousands of years, and finally seeing an opportunity, we must seize it!"

"Yes, no matter what, we must seize this opportunity, even if it means risking our lives!"

Wu Xingyun smiled, "If we want to risk our lives, let me do it."

"Not just you."

Su Xinghai retorted, "Even if we old guys die, as long as the Sect Master is still here, as long as Xiao Ling'er and the others are still here, the Embracing Moon Sect still has hope!"

"No need to be so pessimistic."

Wu Xingyun drank the spirit wine and said, "The Sect Master's ability is stronger than we imagined. It's you guys who need to seize this rare opportunity and break through and become stronger as soon as possible."

"We all know that our talent is not limited to this. We have been stuck at the fourth realm because of the environment and resources."

"Now that the conditions have improved dramatically, I hope that we can all step into the sixth realm in the future, or even the seventh realm!"

"Only in this way can we further clear the obstacles for the rise of the sect."

"Even the seventh realm may not be enough, but our talent may not support us to touch those higher realms."

At this point, Wu Xingyun smiled helplessly, "After all, our opponents are not simple."

"For now, there is already the second-rate sect, Yunxiao Valley, the first-rate sect, Spirit Sword Sect, and also the Bright Moon Sect..."

The hearts of Su Xinghai and the other elders sank.

"Breakthrough."

"Fourth Grotto-Heaven Realm, First Layer."

Feeling the growth of his cultivation, Lin Fan smiled.

Boom!

Inside his body, it felt as if there was a mysterious Grotto-Heaven trembling, resonating with his five organs and six viscera! Constantly absorbing Essence Qi, transforming it into spiritual energy and power.

Physical Grotto-Heaven!

The source of power for the Grotto-Heaven Realm, the foundation of strength.

Crack!

Lin Fan clenched his fist, causing even the air to explode.

"Although it's just a step away, the difference is really huge."

"Indeed, the higher the realm, the more unreachable it is for ordinary geniuses. The higher the realm, the more so."

"The gap is too big."

Lin Fan sighed with emotion.

He was confident that if he were to fight his past self now, even if it was one against three, he could easily win. If it was a battle of attrition, even one against ten would be a piece of cake.

"Sharing battle power!"

Then, he tried to share his battle power.

Buzz!

His realm instantly soared, only calming down when he reached the Fourth Grotto-Heaven Realm Seventh Layer.

"Xiao Ling'er has also made a breakthrough."

"Fan Jianqiang, Third Layer of the Grotto-Heaven Realm..."

"Not bad!"

"And, geniuses are indeed different."

While Lin Fan was pleasantly surprised, he also noticed a problem.

Two Fourth Realm First Layer and one Third Layer, combined to become the Seventh Layer?

This clearly doesn't make sense.

In theory, even the Fifth Layer would be far from enough, so how could it become the Seventh Layer?

But upon further thought, Lin Fan understood.

The realm of geniuses is naturally different from that of ordinary cultivators.

The realm he achieved after sharing his battle power is the realm of "ordinary cultivators".

But Xiao Ling'er and Fan Jianqiang, these two main character templates, belong to their own realm!

Xiao Ling'er may only have the cultivation of the Fourth Realm First Layer, but if compared horizontally, Lin Fan estimated that the energy nurtured within her physical Grotto-Heaven is even more astonishing than that of an ordinary Third Layer cultivator!

Fan Jianqiang's cultivation is estimated to be at the level of an ordinary Fourth Realm Fifth Layer cultivator.

Combined with his own cultivation, it is close to the Eighth Layer, which is reasonable.

Next, no matter which one of the three breaks through a small realm, after Lin Fan shares it, they will all have the cultivation of the Eighth Layer of the Fourth Realm, and their battle power will increase again.

"Although it's worth celebrating, does this indirectly indicate how much I lag behind in my own cultivation and realm?"

Lin Fan smiled helplessly.

There's nothing he can do about it.

After all, his own talent is just average...

Besides, what's the point of opening if it's just to hang?

What's the difference between not being able to open and being a fool?

"Next..."

"Continue to cultivate, wait for the crisis to come. I want to see what kind of thing this crisis is."

"But before that, I need to go out."

He planned to sneak out and find a few safe places to leave behind a strand of his hair or a piece of his skin.

Just in case.

In this way, even if the crisis is too terrifying and Embracing Moon Sect is instantly wiped out, he can still rely on the Nirvana Scripture to resurrect.

Losing a resurrection coin is better than dying.

In the end, Lin Fan ran to dozens of places, and they were quite far apart.

Over ten strands of hair.

Nearly twenty pieces of skin fragments.

After doing all this, he returned to the sect and continued to cultivate.

"If everything can be resolved in one go, then I have nothing to say."

Since it's already so "stable", if he can't even resurrect, what kind of powerful realm expert would intervene?

If that's the case, there's no need to struggle.

Might as well enjoy the remaining time.

...

Time passed.

Three months quietly went by.

During this time, Embracing Moon Sect was quite peaceful.

The six sects, including Yulin Palace, did their best to search for medicinal materials and invested a lot, but their strength also improved.

At the same time, they also sent some information, but they were all minor disturbances and had little to do with Embracing Moon Sect.

The Liu family was growing in secret!

With the support of many high-quality elixirs, there has been significant improvement over the past half year.

However, they have always been hiding themselves, and instead, they are becoming more and more secretive.

After nearly four months of investigation, the Chen family and the Jiang family have finally determined the strength of the six sects and the personnel sent by the Liu family through their own means.

On this day, the people of the two families conspired.

"Liu family is quite bold."

"No wonder we have been investigating for so long. We thought they would send one or two elders to sit in, but we didn't expect it to be this Mr. Liu!"

"With him in charge, it won't be easy to destroy the six sects."

"Indeed."

"We can only ask for the help of ancestral-level figures to ensure success."

"One is not enough."

"Then one from each family!"

"Alright, but our Chen family's ancestors are currently in seclusion, so we need some time."

"How long will it take?"

"Fastest would be ten to fifteen days, slowest would be two months..."

"Then let's plan to take action after two months!"

"Okay."

...

In the core area of the southwest region, many top sects and the only Sacred Land in the southwest region, the Embracing Moon Sacred Land, are located here.

The area is vast, with abundant spiritual energy. Countless immortal mountains and peaks can be seen, and various auspicious signs fill the sky.

Outside this area are second-rate sects and influential forces.

The outermost layer consists of third-rate and insignificant forces.

But there are exceptions.

For example, the Liu family has the strength of a second-rate force.

But the conditions in the Hongwu Immortal City are not bad, so they did not move here.

At this moment, a bright moon hangs in the sky.

In the Embracing Moon Sect, a supreme elder emerged from seclusion and looked at the letter sent by the Yunxiao Valley with great curiosity.

"Yunxiao Valley?"

The accompanying disciple quickly said, "Elder, Yunxiao Valley is a newly rising second-rate force, and it is considered the lowest among the second-rate forces. Its sect master, Yun Ruofu, has reached the Ninth Layer of cultivation, but there is no connection between them and our Embracing Moon Sect."

"Oh?"

"Ninth Layer, that's not bad."

This senior elder, with white hair and beard, opened the letter and frowned slightly, "The Spirit Sword Sect actually shows signs of revival?"

"Spirit Sword Sect?"

"Hmm."

"This Yun Ruofu, his heart deserves to be condemned."

"That group of sword cultivators from the Spirit Sword Sect, they fight at the drop of a hat. Although our Embracing Moon Sect is not afraid, there is no need to antagonize them over an old rival from over ten thousand years ago."

"Moreover, this old rival is already on the decline and can be easily extinguished. If I wanted to destroy them, would I have waited until now?"

"Let the Spirit Sword Sect destroy them, so we don't have to take action. Isn't that wonderful?"

The disciple smiled and agreed, "Elder's words are wise."

"Then let's not worry about Yunxiao Valley."

But in his heart, he had some doubts.

It sounded like it would be easy to destroy them.

But is it really that simple?

That person back then...

Could it be that he didn't want to destroy them?

Clearly, he was just afraid!

But he could only keep these thoughts to himself and not reveal even a hint.

"There's no need to go that far."

The senior elder pondered for a moment, "Write a letter to inform them that we are already aware, and also tell them that if they have talented individuals in the future, they can send them to our Embracing Moon Sect."

"Our sect values talents the most. The better the talent of the person they send, the more generous the rewards. We may even help them reach a higher level."

"Although you are just a disciple, you also represent the reputation of our Embracing Moon Sect. You must learn to conduct yourself properly."

"Although Yunxiao Valley is just a small force, it may still bring some surprises."

"What is most important in the current Immortal Martial Continent?"

"Geniuses and talents!"

"The golden age has arrived, and outstanding individuals from various races are emerging. The battle is about to begin..."

He sighed softly, "This is the most brilliant era, but also the darkest era. It is a time of great purification and forging."

"The future ultimately belongs to the new generation of geniuses. Only by obtaining more geniuses can our Embracing Moon Sect survive."

"Don't forget, the Embracing Moon Sect, which once overshadowed us, was almost wiped out because they were too arrogant and neglected the promotion of talents, resulting in a lack of successors. They were then oppressed by various forces and almost lost their position as a sect."

"We must not follow in their footsteps."

"Yes, Elder."

The disciple's heart trembled.

Golden Age is opening again?

Hiss!

He felt a tingling sensation on his scalp.

The Golden Age, which only appears once every tens of thousands of years, is a time when exceptional talents emerge and heroes compete!

The peerless talents that are rarely seen in ordinary times are as common as dumplings in the Golden Age, continuously showing their extraordinary brilliance.

Until the last moment, no one knows who the winner will be.

To be contemporaries with these exceptional talents and to be in the Golden Age is both fortunate and lamentable.

It is fortunate to witness this splendid era and witness the fierce competition among countless exceptional talents.

Lamentable...

Ordinary cultivators can only watch, not even qualified to be cannon fodder or a background.

This fucking era belongs to the exceptional talents!

"No wonder..."

He murmured softly.

"No wonder what?"

"Master."

The disciple quickly said, "I heard that the Dragon Clan of White Emperor City has produced an exceptional talent. A few days ago, he killed the third Divine Child of the Feather Clan with a single punch."

"You should gradually get used to it. After all, it is the Golden Age."

The elder said calmly, but he was secretly surprised as well.

Hiss!

Didn't the Sect Master say that the Golden Age is about to come?

Why do I feel like it has already begun?

No, I have to be more cautious.

In this kind of era, even we old guys are not necessarily safe.

"What you just said, do you remember it? You handle this matter, I have gained some insights and will continue to seclude myself."

He slipped away.

Although his strength is strong enough and he has lived long enough, he is very aware of how terrifying the exceptional talents of the Golden Age are.

This kind of existence is really unreasonable!

Encountering those "true exceptional talents," not only are they difficult to kill, but they also become stronger the more they fight.

Who knows, if they don't kill me this year, they might kill me effortlessly in a couple of years.

Not to mention myself, even the exceptional talents of the previous generation have suffered many setbacks and were overwhelmed by the rising tide.

Hide!

I won't come out unless it's absolutely necessary.

...

Within the Spirit Sword Sect, inside the first Secret Realm.

Tear!

Sword Qi filled the air for three hundred miles, and the aura of Wen Jian underwent a great change as he emerged from seclusion.

Chant!

All the surrounding swords trembled and emitted a sword chant, as if paying homage to a king.

"He has come out!"

The two guardians who were guarding this place immediately showed joy on their faces.

"He truly deserves to be the Sword Spirit Sacred Body. Just activated and already the swords are submissive and worshipful. Moreover, has he already comprehended Sword Intent?!"

"His cultivation has also broken through, reaching the peak of the Third Realm, just one step away from the Fourth Realm."

Looking at Wen Jian, who was enveloped in sword qi and had a tall figure, the two of them were overjoyed.

"One more step, and he can become our Sect's Sword Master! The position of the Sword Master, which has been vacant for hundreds of years, will finally have someone to inherit it."

"However, after inheriting the position, he will face many challenges."

"What is there to fear? We sword cultivators are not afraid of challenges and storms."

"Hmm? What?!"

"He... he actually wants to break through now?!"

The two were in the middle of their conversation when they suddenly noticed that Wen Jian, who had activated the Sword Spirit Sacred Body and emerged from seclusion, sat cross-legged without saying a word, entering a state of cultivation.

The Fourth Grotto-Heaven Realm was within reach!

"Good."

"Great!"

The two were even more surprised...

Three days later, Wen Jian broke through to the Fourth Realm and became a cultivator of the Grotto-Heaven Realm.

On the same day, the Sect Master of the Spirit Sword Sect issued a decree that resounded throughout the entire sect, appointing Wen Jian as the contemporary Sword Master.

Once the news came out, many talented disciples of the Spirit Sword Sect were dissatisfied.

Subsequently, internal conflicts erupted within the Spirit Sword Sect.

Many talented disciples challenged Wen Jian!

Even senior brothers who had been in the sect for over a hundred years could challenge Wen Jian as long as they suppressed their cultivation level, allowing for a fair fight.

Of course, it was said to be fair, but it was only superficially fair.

After all, after so many years of cultivation, their vision, experience, and knowledge far surpassed Wen Jian. They had also studied swordsmanship and sword techniques for a long time.

However, the upper levels of the Spirit Sword Sect did not intervene and only allowed Wen Jian to handle it himself.

As a sword cultivator, he was recognized as the most talented contemporary figure by them, and he was supposed to be among the top geniuses. If he couldn't even accept internal challenges or win battles against opponents of the same level, how could he gain the respect of others?

However, they still allowed Wen Jian to take it step by step, accepting a challenge every three days.

Sword cultivation was never about seclusion, but about using the sword in one's hand to fight!

Wen Jian learned of this and smiled confidently.

"Hehe, it's fine. Let them come one by one!"

He didn't plan to stop, challenging every three days? Continuously, until there were no more opponents!

"Think twice, Sword Master!"

The two close bodyguards were surprised and quickly tried to persuade him.

But it was useless.

Then, the challenge began.

Many talented disciples of the Spirit Sword Sect in the contemporary era were eager to prove themselves. Although their cultivation was sealed and their realm suppressed, they still fought with all their might at their current level, without holding back.

But the results surprised almost everyone.

After nearly half a month of battles, Wen Jian emerged victorious!

Among the contemporary disciples, he was invincible at the same level!

When all the contemporary disciples no longer dared to question him and he firmly established his position as Sword Master, he couldn't help but think of his mentor. He inquired about any news from the Eight Sword Sect, only to learn that it had been destroyed.

"..."

"The Eight Sword Sect has been destroyed?"

"No one survived, and my mentor..."

Wen Jian was particularly saddened, but then he learned that the culprit had not been identified yet and was waiting for him to investigate. Embracing Moon Sect was also waiting for him to "defeat" them, which instantly motivated him.

"I will stabilize for a while!"

He took a deep breath. "After the half-month battle, I have gained a lot."

"After I come out of seclusion and defeat Xiao Ling'er, Embracing Moon Sect... will be destroyed."

...

Inside Yunxiao Valley.

Yun Ruofu received news from Embracing Moon Sect and was shocked. She quickly opened it and carefully read it.

"We already know about Embracing Moon Sect, Yunxiao Valley doesn't need to worry."

"But if there are any talented individuals in the future, you can send them to Embracing Moon Sect to accomplish a great feat!"

...

With just two sentences, Yun Ruofu was furious.

"How can this be!"

"The prestigious Embracing Moon Sect, a top-tier sect that has been around for hundreds of thousands of years, is allowing Embracing Moon Sect to rise from the ashes?"

"Are they afraid of Spirit Sword Sect?!"

"Damn it!"

He cursed. If it weren't for the fact that he couldn't defeat them, he would show them what it means to "not eat beef".

"Embracing Moon Sect..."

"Soon, there will be a chance!"

...

It's almost time, just half a month left.

Lin Fan calculated the days. It was the day when the annual crisis would arrive.

"It's like celebrating a birthday, it's ridiculous."

"I don't want this kind of 'birthday gift'."

During this period, Embracing Moon Sect had been relatively calm.

Everyone was cultivating in seclusion, and their strength had improved significantly!

However, as everyone's realm became higher, the speed of their advancement slowed down. Fortunately, their combat power increased significantly, and although their realm advancement was slower, it never stopped.

At the same time, Lin Fan was closely monitoring various news...

He also wanted to take the initiative, but there was no way to figure it out. He didn't know where the crisis came from or how it started. He could only prepare for everything he could do and adapt to any changes.

It was quite passive.

Fortunately, as everyone's strength became stronger, Lin Fan was no longer as worried as before.

"In just one year, Embracing Moon Sect's strength has increased by dozens of times?"

"In terms of combat power, it's probably more than a hundred times."

"This kind of operation, even in a game, would be commendable. Isn't it at least first-class? If they can't even survive the first small crisis, then it's really ridiculous."

After thinking it through, Lin Fan felt that the only variables should be Xiao Ling'er and Fan Jianqiang, the two main characters.

After all, they had the title of "destroyer of the newbie village"...

But it's not that coincidental, right? Just happens to overlap with the annual crisis?

In his contemplation, Liu Xun contacted Lin Fan.

"Brother Lin, the Chen and Jiang families have been acting strange lately. Our side has discovered unusual movements among their personnel, and they have also invited the strong members of our Liu family to explore a Secret Realm together in half a month."

"After discussing among our Liu family elders, we have determined that this is not a trap set specifically for our Liu family. Instead, it seems like..."

Lin Fan's heart stirred.

The crisis is coming?!

"Targeting us?"

"Not necessarily, after all, they still dare not defy the will of the Spirit Sword Sect. But when things are out of the ordinary, there must be something amiss. They are acting like this for a reason, so we should be cautious."

Liu Xun expressed his concern, "Why don't you come to the city and hide for a while?"

After a brief thought, Lin Fan declined.

Although the Hongwu Immortal City seemed safe on the surface and forbade any fighting, it was only for ordinary cultivators. Rules could never restrain the strong.

Running to the Hongwu Immortal City might actually escalate the crisis and make it even more dangerous. It might become impossible to escape when the time comes!

After all, those who dare to cause trouble and make a move in the Hongwu Immortal City are definitely not weak!

It's also possible that someone has set their sights on Xiao Ling'er and Strange Fire, framing them with false charges and capturing them... that would truly leave no room for escape.

And with false charges, even the Spirit Sword Sect might not be able to say anything.

So, at this critical moment, going to the Hongwu Immortal City is not an option.

"In that case... alright."

"But with Second Young Master on your side, you should be careful. There shouldn't be any major changes, but it's not that our Liu family is unwilling to send more strong members. It's just that the Secret Realm offered by the Chen family this time is too attractive..."

"Understood."

"Completely understood."

After chatting for a while, Liu Xun had something to attend to.

Lin Fan, on the other hand, fell into deep thought.

"The Chen and Jiang families?"

"Could the crisis be related to them?"

"But if it's really them, just holding back the strong members of the Liu family would require a considerable number of people. But what about the rest..."

"We must hold on, no matter what!"

He had no retreat.

Time passed.

The day of Lin Fan's transmigration was getting closer.

Embracing Moon Sect, on the other hand, became increasingly calm.

Even within the six sects such as the Jade Unicorn Palace, everything was peaceful.

They were focused on their development, selling off their old assets and acquiring various medicinal materials in exchange for pills.

Their strength had also greatly improved!

Although they were a bit poor, with their increased strength, they could do more things and find more ways to make money, increasing their efficiency. Therefore, they didn't think there was any problem at all.

They just regretted that their foundation was too weak. Otherwise...

Wang Yulin even contemplated whether he should sell his lifebound divine weapon first to support his eldest son's cultivation.

Suddenly, this day finally arrived.

At dawn.

Wang Yulin was cultivating, but he suddenly felt unusually restless, unable to calm down. This feeling made him extremely uneasy.

"How could this be?!"

"For so many years, I have never felt this way. Could it be!!!"

He immediately spread his divine sense throughout the sect's gate, but he couldn't detect any problems. Instead of alleviating his unease, it made him even more anxious.

"No, something's not right!"

Cultivators go against the heavens and seek good fortune while avoiding calamity.

When cultivation reaches a certain level, their spiritual perception becomes keen, allowing them to sense danger.

This was a great calamity!

"Not good!"

He immediately took out a sound transmission jade talisman and contacted the other six sect masters of the alliance.

"Everyone, something big is happening. I suddenly had a hunch of a great calamity approaching. Please come and support me quickly!"

However, the replies he received made him pale.

Chen Bixuan: "What? Master Wang, you also have this feeling?"

Zhang Wenda: "Also? Could it be that all of you...?!"

Immediately, the masters of the Ziping Cave, Blood Blade Sect, and Crimson Flame Sect all expressed that they also had a sense of foreboding, anticipating a great disaster.

"!!!"

"So it's targeting our entire alliance." Wang Yulin's face turned pale. "Damn it."

"It really is a great calamity."

Without thinking too much, he immediately used his divine sense to transmit a message to Wang Teng, telling him to escape quickly.

"Escape?!" Wang Teng frowned. "Why should we escape?"

"A great calamity."

"Dad, rest assured, in front of the child, all dangers will be turned into nothing!"

"Hmm?!"

"Somebody is intruding the mountain!"

Boom!

Before they could argue about the result, a terrifying roar suddenly sounded, and the protective ancestral formation instantly shattered. A powerful aura swept over, causing many disciples of the Jade Unicorn Palace to faint, even the fourth realm elders felt immense pressure and were unable to move.

Only cultivators above the fifth realm could still move freely, but they were also limited by the oppressive force, only able to exert seventy to eighty percent of their combat power.

"Not good!"

"Quick, run!"

Wang Yulin was surprised and appeared in the sky in a flash.

Swish, swish, swish.

Figures flickered, and all the fifth realm elders of the Jade Unicorn Palace appeared, looking solemnly at the sky.

"Oh?"

"The Jade Unicorn Palace actually has seven fifth realm cultivators? This is inconsistent with the intelligence. It seems that the intelligence department should be punished."

"However."

"The outcome will not change."

"Annihilate."

Above the sky, a person wearing golden armor appeared, chuckled lightly, and then unleashed a palm strike.

Boom!!!

Golden light filled the sky, and the huge palm print was still clearly visible even from a thousand miles away. In an instant, countless people held their breath.

"The sixth realm!"

The leaders of the Jade Unicorn Palace gritted their teeth. Three of them had broken through by using their old resources. They thought that after reaching the fifth realm, they would be able to roam freely, but they didn't expect that the danger had just begun and they were already facing death.

"Run!!!"

Wang Yulin roared and summoned his divine weapon, giving it his all to resist.

Wang Teng's eyes instantly turned bloodshot: "Dad!!!"

At the same time...

Boom, boom, boom, boom, boom!!!

The direction of the Illusory Spirit Valley, Five Thunder Sect, Purple Duck Cave, Blood Blade Sect, and Crimson Flame Sect all erupted with terrifying attacks, all from sixth realm experts.

For third-rate sects, especially those like them who were in the middle and lower ranks of the third-rate sects, it was already a situation of certain death.

Embracing Moon Sect, main peak.

Lin Fan and others gathered, their faces extremely solemn.

The surrounding scene was too terrifying.

It was like a divine punishment descending!

As if there were angry gods in the sky, wanting to destroy everything.

But...

Embracing Moon Sect was not within the range of the attack.

Swish.

Liu Er appeared, his gaze cold: "It's people from the Chen and Jiang families. So, their target is these six sects?"

"They want to kill a chicken to scare the monkeys, to shake the mountain and intimidate the tiger."

In an instant, he understood the intentions of the Chen and Jiang families and inwardly criticized himself for his oversight.

Different ideas!

The Liu family understood that this alliance had nothing to do with them, it was something Lin Fan had created.

So they didn't think in that direction.

But these two families didn't know. They thought it was their doing, that they had some kind of action.

Although they didn't know what they were really up to, causing chaos was the right move!

And so they made their move.

Without any defense, it was a bit tricky.

He spoke quickly, "The distance is too far, and they attacked at the same time. I can only protect one sect at most. Lin Sect Master, which sect should I protect?"

Before he finished speaking.

Buzz...

The protective formations that had already been broken in the six sects suddenly reappeared, and their intensity was even stronger!

"Hmm?! There's actually a hidden move?"

Liu Er was surprised.

Then, the terrifying attacks from the six directions struck the formations.

The formations shattered, but the terrifying attacks were also neutralized.

For a moment...

The six sects, the Chen and Jiang families, and even most of the Embracing Moon Sect were somewhat dumbfounded.

But Lin Fan was not surprised at all.

He had talked to Fan Jianqiang.

This guy was very steady, but also very "rich".

The reason he didn't take resources from the sect was not because he was afraid of karma, but because he didn't need them...

And he even had extra!

These formations were created by Fan Jianqiang himself.

He had plenty of reasons to set up these formations for them, and he was confident in his words.

If there was any danger, they could buy some time for themselves to escape.

Just like being chased by a tiger, they didn't necessarily need to run faster than the tiger, as long as they were faster than their companions. And if their companions could hold on for a little longer, it would be even better.

So, these formations were set up.

However, even Fan Jianqiang himself didn't expect them to be put to use so quickly.

"Hiss!!!"

"Master, elders, shall we escape?"

He immediately requested to leave.

But at this moment, no one paid attention to him.

"With this obstruction and enough time, I can protect four of the sects."

Buzz!

Liu Er soared into the air, mysterious fluctuations gathering at his fingertips, borrowing the power of heaven and earth. Then, he pierced through the sky and attacked the three sixth realm experts.

"Liu Er, you have some guts!"

"Are you afraid of us fighting against you alone?"

"Then let's kill you first!"

The fifth Finger Mystic realm could comprehend the rules and gather all the mysteries at their fingertips. The sixth Knowing Destiny realm could understand the will of heaven and earth. In simpler terms, they could fight by borrowing the power of heaven and earth!

The four sixth realm experts made their move, instantly causing the sky to change color. Terrifying fluctuations swept through, and Ten Thousand Tons of Thunder exploded in the sky, making it even more terrifying.

"Go help!"

Lin Fan glanced deeply and said, "Elders, you go to Ziping Cave."

"I'll go to Chiyan Sect. Yulin Palace can hold on for now."

From a distance, Wang Yulin was covered in blood.

But he wasn't dead yet. A blood-red figure soared into the air, radiating a fierce light, using some unknown terrifying secret technique to barely hold on.

That was 'Posture of the Great Emperor' Wang Teng!

However, at this moment, Wang Teng's aura was completely different from before, making people feel extremely unfamiliar, but his strength was indeed not weak.

"Yes, Sect Master!"

The five elders immediately set off and went to help through the teleportation array.

Lin Fan didn't idle either and immediately set off.

On the way, he used his divine sense to transmit his voice, "There's no need for a big battle. Just show your identity and stand at the forefront. With us blocking in front, they won't dare to act recklessly. Then, bring the people into the teleportation array and return to Embracing Moon Sect. That will be considered saving them. As for what happens afterwards..."

Will it be that simple?

Lin Fan wasn't sure.

But he had made a solemn vow before, that unless it was impossible, he would not stand by and watch someone die without saving them.

So, the people had to be saved.

Soon, they arrived separately.

And immediately revealed their identities.

Just as the attack was about to come again, they stood in front, instantly angering the two sixth realm experts and forcing them to withdraw their attacks. "Is Embracing Moon Sect seeking death?!"

"We are seeking death."

Lin Fan spoke, his voice shaking the sky, "Do you dare to kill us?"

"What does this have to do with Embracing Moon Sect? Step aside!"

The sixth realm expert was furious.

Damn it!

They were clearly ants that could be killed with a flick of their fingers, but they didn't dare to kill them.

These ants were still jumping around, it was simply unreasonable!

"What people we want to protect has nothing to do with you."

While arguing, they quickly entered the teleportation array...

The two sixth realm experts noticed Lin Fan and the others' intentions and immediately tried to destroy the teleportation array.

But Lin Fan and the five elders suddenly rose up, directly using their bodies to resist the attack, scaring the two of them into trembling, and they quickly stopped.

"This is outrageous!"

Damn it!!!

The two sixth realm experts cursed, never before had they been so frustrated in their lives. No matter how they calculated, they never expected Lin Fan and the others to be so 'shameless' and use their bodies as shields!

Then, they could only watch as the people from the two sects quickly left through the teleportation array...

After that, Lin Fan and the others hurried to Yulin Palace and used the same method to protect the people of Yulin Palace and retreat to Embracing Moon Sect.

Wang Teng was still alive.

But he had been beaten beyond recognition.

Lin Fan brought him back as well.

The situation on the battlefield changed.

The two sixth realm experts besieged Liu Er. Although Liu Er was strong, the opponents were not weak either, and it was one against six.

But Liu Er was a man of principles. He didn't make a sound until he was seriously injured and fell into Embracing Moon Sect.

Just as they breathed a sigh of relief, a terrifying sword light cut across the sky and arrived.

(End of this chapter)