Chapter 3977: Panyuan Reveals Secrets
Jing Daoren was naturally grateful to Zhang Ruochen, showing none of the arrogance typical of older generation powerhouses. He clasped his hands in salute and said, "If not for Emperor Chen, I would have been dead for sure in this life-and-death crisis!"
An Indestructible Infinite cultivator was an absolute giant anywhere in the universe.
Bowing to a junior was the sincerest form of gratitude.
"It's not that serious! Crisis, crisis—danger within opportunity. This is your own fortune, Daoist," Zhang Ruochen said.
Jing Daoren shook his head. "If Emperor Chen hadn't arrived in time, preventing Seventy-Two-Pin Lotus from having more time to cast her spell, she would have discovered my divine soul hidden within the Ten-Wheel Golden Crow Great Sun Star. Otherwise, everything would have been lost!"
The Five Elements Temple Master, with his crane-white hair and childlike complexion, walked across the water, his previously furrowed brow now relaxed. "This isn't just a debt my junior brother owes you, but the entire Five Elements Temple as well. From now on, should Emperor Chen send even a single letter, my junior brother and I will cross endless star seas to come to your aid."
The Five Elements Temple Master hated evil as much as an enemy and could not tolerate any impurity. Years ago, he had harshly criticized Zhang Ruochen for saving the severely injured Feng Tian.
Such a conflict would never linger in Zhang Ruochen's broad-minded heart.
But subtly, Zhang Ruochen had proven through his actions to the Five Elements Temple Master that he had not fallen into degradation, nor had he brought shame to the Great Venerable or the Saint Monk.
Moreover, the Temple Master now owed Zhang Ruochen such a great favor—one could imagine the turmoil in his heart.
Zhang Ruochen said cheerfully, "There's no need to wait for the future. I have a matter right now that I'd like the Temple Master's help with."
The Five Elements Temple Master was more than willing to repay the favor immediately to avoid leaving any lingering resentment. "Please speak, Emperor Chen."
Zhang Ruochen said, "In the previous battle, the First Queen A Fuya was a great help; otherwise, we couldn't have banished Seventy-Two-Pin Lotus. I promised her I would help gather Arrow Dao Essence. I've heard that the Temple Master has ties with the Seven-Arrow God Venerable of the Primordial Realm. Could you make a trip on my behalf?"
"The Seven-Arrow God Venerable is considered half my disciple. When he was young, he cultivated at the Five Elements Temple, and I taught him for a time."
The Five Elements Temple Master did not immediately agree.
After all, Arrow Dao Essence was as vital as life itself to the Seven-Arrow God Venerable—how could he simply give it away?
Given the Temple Master's character and principles, he could never forcibly take his own disciple's essence.
Jing Daoren thought much more simply than the Temple Master. "I thought it was something major. Why does my senior brother need to go? I can handle Little Seven's side myself."
The Five Elements Temple Master frowned deeply, glaring at Jing Daoren.
Zhang Ruochen laughed. "I'm not one to demand repayment for favors. I only ask that you two make the trip. I believe that for the Seven-Arrow God Venerable, there are things more important than Arrow Dao Essence, and I might be able to trade with him on equal terms."
Few in the world dared boast such a claim, but the Five Elements Temple Master knew Zhang Ruochen indeed had the qualifications.
The resources and treasures he controlled would interest even Heavenly Venerable-level beings.
What Zhang Ruochen could accomplish with a single word might be something the Seven-Arrow God Venerable could never achieve in a lifetime of effort.
"I'll handle this matter," the Five Elements Temple Master agreed.
Jing Daoren added, "Just over ten percent of Arrow Dao Essence from Little Seven alone probably won't be enough. The Winged Clan in the Primordial Realm also holds a large amount of Arrow Dao Essence. Coincidentally, I have a good relationship with their old chieftain. How about I make the trip for you?"
Zhang Ruochen smiled. "If so, then many thanks to Daoist Jing."
"Repaying favors should be done early! Especially yours—better to settle it quickly. I've already projected a clone to the clay statue in the Primordial Realm, so there should be results soon," Jing Daoren said.
The Starry Sky Angler stood on his wooden boat. "Everyone has traveled far. There's no need to stand here in the sea breeze. How about some hot tea at Star Heaven Cliff?"
...
Star Heaven Cliff was originally located at the origin of the universe, "Sea Stone Star Harbor." Now, it had moved to the Sword Realm, situated on the western shore of one of the Sword Realm's five continents, "Cangjin Continent."
Star Heaven Cliff itself formed a separate world—a massive stone millions of miles high, named for its smooth cliffs and steep precipices.
Such a heavy stone world was no different from a high plane, nearly half a sacred realm, and ordinary large worlds could not support it.
Now it rested on Cangjin, facing the sea and rising above the clouds, becoming the most iconic and unique landscape of the Sword Realm, as well as the most coveted sacred ground for spiritual power cultivators across all worlds under the Sword Realm.
On the cliff, red crow trees were everywhere, blazing like fire.
Xu Tingting served everyone cups of steaming hot tea, the fragrance faint but lingering.
Years had passed, and this innocent, carefree girl had shed her naivety, becoming dignified and elegant.
Zhang Ruochen raised his teacup. "When the Kunlun Realm was in danger, the three of you rushed to help immediately. I remember this kindness. Today, I'll use tea in place of wine to toast you all."
The Truth Temple Master drank and set down his cup. "We didn't help much."
Zhang Ruochen said, "In my view, your mere presence at the Kunlun Realm is a great favor."
Xuan Yuan Lian, fan in hand and elegant as ever, said, "They say the martial world isn't about fighting and killing, but about favors and social graces. Today, I've truly witnessed it."
Zhang Ruochen looked at the cross-dressing Xuan Yuan Lian, his expression somewhat complicated.
After all, he had just banished Seventy-Two-Pin Lotus, and the grudges between them were hard to articulate.
In the future, Zhang Ruochen would inevitably have to settle things with Seventy-Two-Pin Lotus, life or death. How would he face this dear friend then?
Seeing through Zhang Ruochen's thoughts, Xuan Yuan Lian said, "Emperor Chen is now at the peak of glory, with combat power rivaling a Heavenly Venerable and a revered status. Surely you can take a little teasing?"
"Of course I can. Even if others cannot, you, Lord Lian, can speak freely with me. If I show even a hint of displeasure, may I be punished by the Tai'a Divine Thunder," Zhang Ruochen said.
Xuan Yuan Lian smiled. "All you seniors must bear witness for me."
Jing Daoren muttered under his breath, "How can we bear witness? You two will definitely outlive us old folks. Who knows what will happen in the future?"
The older cultivators present all knew that Xuan Yuan Lian and Zhang Ruochen were saying this to ease any potential resentment between them. So, no one took it seriously.
The Truth Temple Master said, "With Wen Tianjun and Fengdu Dadi joining forces, Di knew the situation was hopeless and chose to flee. The crisis at the Kunlun Realm has been resolved. Next, Emperor Chen... what plans does the Sword Realm have?"
Zhang Ruochen's smile faded. "According to Grandmaster's wishes, if Wen Tianjun agrees, the Kunlun Realm will likely be moved to the Wuding Divine Sea immediately to deal with the Ancestor Calamity."
The expressions of those present shifted.
The Truth Temple Master said, "No one knows how dire the Ancestor Calamity will be. In truth, the Heavenly Court and the Sword Realm joining forces might offer a better chance."
Zhang Ruochen said, "The Heavenly Court and the Sword Realm have always been mutually supportive. No matter how dangerous the Ancestor Calamity becomes, that won't change."
The Truth Temple Master knew many things were beyond recovery, so he didn't press further.
He fell silent.
After a long moment, Zhang Ruochen said, "The connection between the Heavenly Court and the Sword Realm won't be severed just because the Kunlun Realm moves away."
"Temple Master has always been one of the seniors I respect most. So, I want to emulate you and do something beneficial for everyone. I plan to fully activate the Sundial in the Sword Realm and invite cultivators from both the Heavenly Court Universe and the Hell Realm to cultivate within it, to prepare for the coming Ancestor Calamity and even the Calamity of Quantities."
"I haven't told anyone else yet—you are the first to know."
Jing Daoren's eyes lit up. "Excellent! I want to cultivate in the Sundial. Soon, I'll reach the peak of the Indestructible Infinite Middle Stage."
Zhang Ruochen said, "The Sundial can't yet support Indestructible Infinite cultivation."
"Tell Xiu Chen Heavenly God to work hard. Tell her I'm already at Indestructible Infinite Middle Stage," Jing Daoren said, taking a sip of tea.
The Truth Temple Master and the Five Elements Temple Master, both having cultivated for over a million years, silently pondered Zhang Ruochen's purpose.
They felt Zhang Ruochen was revealing his ambition, laying the groundwork for the future, aiming to become the master of the universe.
After all, anyone who came to cultivate in the Sundial would owe Zhang Ruochen a favor and form a karmic bond.
Just like Zhang Ruochen, who still remembered the Truth Temple Master's kindness.
More importantly, would the Sword Realm use this opportunity to absorb talent from the Heavenly Court Universe?
Zhang Ruochen knew their concerns but didn't explain. "Forced by circumstances, with danger closing in step by step, it's time to usher in a great era of cultivation."
"Once this matter is settled, I'll announce it to the world. I'm telling you in advance because I've never considered you outsiders."
"Swish!"
Xuan Yuan Lian snapped her fan shut. "Is Emperor Chen trying to recruit the Temple Master and the Five Elements Temple Master to the Sword Realm?"
"If Lord Lian wants to come, I'd welcome you even more. How about an eight-person palanquin?" Zhang Ruochen laughed.
Xuan Yuan Lian showed a proud and disdainful expression, stood up, and prepared to leave. "Since I can't personally pay respects to Tai Shang, I'll return to the Heavenly Court first. Oh, and..."
She turned back. "Zhang Ruochen, back at the Heavenly Academy, you seemed to have something you wanted to tell me."
Zhang Ruochen hadn't expected Xuan Yuan Lian to still remember.
The old-timers present all revealed meaningful smiles and left one after another.
After careful consideration, Zhang Ruochen said, "I had indeed heard long ago that Seventy-Two-Pin Lotus might be your birth mother."
"How long ago?" Xuan Yuan Lian asked.
"Before I entrusted the Time-Space Chaos Lotus to you," Zhang Ruochen said frankly.
Xuan Yuan Lian said, "So that's what you wanted to tell me?"
Zhang Ruochen said, "Because I didn't want to lose you as a rare friend. When I entrusted the Time-Space Chaos Lotus to you back then, I did have the intention of using your identity to prevent it from being taken."
Xuan Yuan Lian suddenly laughed. "Being a friend of Emperor Chen is truly my honor. For those words, I forgive you. Farewell."
Xuan Yuan Lian transformed into a beam of divine light, flew out of Star Heaven Cliff, and disappeared into the horizon.
Zhang Ruochen walked out the door, gazing at the sea of clouds.
Xuan Yuan Lian was indeed a woman worth befriending—her boldness and straightforwardness surpassed many men. Even learning that Seventy-Two-Pin Lotus was her birth mother, she quickly emerged from her emotional low.
Jing Daoren appeared silently behind Zhang Ruochen. "You beat up her mother, and you were just apologizing to her? I heard her laugh?"
Zhang Ruochen was in no mood to joke about this. "Daoist, any results from the Primordial Realm?"
Jing Daoren looked quite proud. "With me on the case, would the Winged Clan dare refuse? Do you know how much face an Indestructible Infinite Middle Stage cultivator carries?"
"Get to the point," Zhang Ruochen said.
Jing Daoren said, "The Winged Clan's old chieftain is old, with little lifespan left. Once he falls, the Winged Clan will have no Infinite Realm cultivator to guard them and will quickly decline. The old chieftain heard that Emperor Chen's First-Rank Divine Path can help cultivators absorb the power of the Calamity of Quantities in Lihentian, so he hopes Emperor Chen can help with that as a trade."
Zhang Ruochen said, "Does the Winged Clan have any talented Grand Ultimate Realm Great Gods?"
"Of course they do," Jing Daoren said, his expression slightly unnatural. "But I've seen them all—their chances of breaking through to Infinite Realm are slim."
Zhang Ruochen said, "If their chances were good, the old chieftain wouldn't have proposed this condition. How about this: have the old chieftain select ten of the most promising cultivators from the clan—it doesn't matter if they're Grand Ultimate Realm Great Gods or not. I guarantee that at least one of them will become an Infinite Realm cultivator."
"Such a good deal? That old fellow will be weeping with gratitude!"
Jing Daoren was overjoyed, stroking his beard as he considered how to present this to the Winged Clan's old chieftain. He felt he had not only repaid the favor but could also profit from the deal.
The Five Elements Temple Master soon brought good news as well: the Seven-Arrow God Venerable was willing to trade Arrow Dao Essence, but his condition was a divine pill to break through to Great Unbound Infinite.
The Seven-Arrow God Venerable was at the peak of Qiankun Infinite Realm, and his greatest pursuit in life was to step into Great Unbound Infinite.
Such a realm leap might seem trivial to Zhang Ruochen, but to countless Qiankun Infinite Realm divine venerables across the universe, it was like an insurmountable chasm. Once crossed, their status and the benefits they could obtain would be unimaginably elevated.
The Five Elements Temple Master was not at all surprised that the Winged Clan chieftain and the Seven-Arrow God Venerable agreed to this.
Facing Zhang Ruochen's absolute strength, being able to trade on equal terms was already a great show of respect. If you didn't accept this face, who knew what you might face next?
Zhang Ruochen said, "Have the Seven-Arrow God Venerable select ten cultivators with great potential to come cultivate in the Sword Realm. Leave the divine pill to me."
For the Seven-Arrow God Venerable to have cultivated to the peak of Qiankun Infinite Realm showed he was exceptionally talented.
With the Earth Cauldron in hand and Zhang Ruochen's current spiritual power, giving him a push forward was still feasible.
The Truth Temple Master and the Five Elements Temple Master did not stay long in the Sword Realm. After visiting the Five Dragon God Emperor in the Dragon Realm and the Thousand Star Divine Ancestor in the Thousand Star Civilization, they returned directly to the Heavenly Court.
Jing Daoren stayed in the Sword Realm to cultivate, claiming he needed to consolidate his realm.
But Zhang Ruochen knew that after fusing his physical body with the Bronze Divine Tree, Jing Daoren had formed a subtle connection with the Wuding Divine Sea. Cultivating there would naturally be faster than elsewhere.
Zhang Ruochen didn't expose this. He was now in the Dragon Realm.
The power of the Dark Hand had triggered the Ancestral Dragon's Roar in the Dragon Nest, which in turn awakened the ancestral blood within the Dragon Lord and the Ancestral Dragon Armor hidden in the Ancestral Dragon Scales.
But enduring the Dark Hand's attack had left the Dragon Lord severely injured, his divine soul still in a chaotic state, not yet awakened.
His condition was strange. This time, even Zhang Ruochen had no solution. He could only wait for Tai Shang to emerge from seclusion, or for the Dragon Lord to rely on his own ability to reassemble his divine soul.
"Uncle Dragon's ancestral blood is boiling, ancestral patterns flowing through his veins, and ancestral dragon energy surging, like the chaos at the dawn of creation. Uncle Dragon's talent and aptitude are already among the top ten in the world, with few comparable. If he can reshape his body within the chaos, how could the Heavenly Venerable rank stop his cultivation momentum?"
Zhang Ruochen had full confidence in the Dragon Lord. After discussing the Dragon Nest and the Ancestral Dragon's Roar with the Five Dragon God Emperor, the presence of Panyuan Ancient God appeared outside the realm.
The two immediately rose to welcome this master of the Eastern Universe.
Panyuan Ancient God had arrived with Feng Yan. After exchanging greetings, Zhang Ruochen and the Five Dragon God Emperor thanked him for his decisive intervention, then asked about the six escaped ancient tribal chieftains.
"The one I pursued should be the old chieftain of the Primordial Clan. After he fled to the Santu River, his aura suddenly vanished. If I'm not mistaken, after the battle thirty thousand years ago, the Nether Ancestor has appeared again!" Panyuan Ancient God's expression was extremely grave.
Zhang Ruochen and the Five Dragon God Emperor's faces tightened.
Seeing their expressions, Panyuan Ancient God said, "I imagine Hao Tian wouldn't tell you this. But in this great era, why hide these secrets? The one the Heavenly Court and Hell Realm's Twenty-Four Heavens fought thirty thousand years ago should have been the Nether Ancestor. Even though Hao Tian couldn't confirm it when he told me back then, who else could it be besides the Nether Ancestor?"
The Five Dragon God Emperor said, "The Nether Ancestor is an Immortal!"
"I know what you're thinking. So what if he's an Immortal? Even the Dark Abomination was dismembered—how much better could the Nether Ancestor be?"
Panyuan Ancient God showed no reverence for the Immortal. "When a mortal is angered, blood can spill five steps. Are we cultivators mere sheep to be herded by an Immortal?"
"In that battle back then, Hao Tian, the Sixth Patriarch, and the others didn't even know who they were going to fight. But knowing it was a near-certain death, they still went without hesitation, singing as they marched!"
"They were merely following the Great Venerable's final instructions, ambushing the severely wounded Nether Ancestor at a predetermined time and place—the Nether Ancestor who had been knocked into the future by the earth-shattering battle ten eons ago. If I had been qualified, I would have gone too!"
Zhang Ruochen began to understand.
The Heavenly War thirty thousand years ago was likely similar to his current ability to calculate where the severely wounded Seventy-Two-Pin Lotus would fall in the future, at what time and place. He could then tell future cultivators in advance to ambush her, denying her the chance to recover.
Unfortunately, with his current cultivation, Zhang Ruochen lacked the ability to calculate across the River of Time.
"It seems the future cultivators must fight their own battles and carve out their own path to survival. Could it be that the Great Venerable truly died in that battle ten eons ago?" Zhang Ruochen thought to himself.
The Five Dragon God Emperor's eyes held both grief and battle intent. "I regret not being listed among the Twenty-Four Heavens thirty thousand years ago. Otherwise, I would have gone to fight alongside my father. Even if I died in battle, it would have been a glorious end."
Panyuan Ancient God said, "Back then, Dragon Lord got that spot and was quite proud, refusing to let me have it, even though I was clearly stronger. I spent three hundred thousand years unable to figure it out, but after the Wa Divine Palace and the Dragon Nest emerged, I began to understand. Still, it doesn't matter. Since the Nether Ancestor has appeared, we can continue the battle from thirty thousand years ago. This time, we'll fight side by side. Who can exclude me now?"