True Martial World - Chapter 1344: Item that must be obtained

The Nine Li Magus Maiden's mortality made it so that she lacked any form of life preservation. With so many riffraff in the crowd, it was naturally unsafe for her to walk through.

At that moment, behind the Nine Li Magus Maiden, Aged Blackrock pressed down on the air, forming an invisible wave that spread out. Anyone who came into contact with the wave was pushed back by a tremendous force. They retreated back further and further.

"What's the matter?"

The crowd was infuriated. They were people of standing, so the sudden push made them unhappy. However, they did not dare protest because it was done by Aged Blackrock.

The wave went deep into the desolate lands, forming a path a hundred feet wide that was clear of any obstruction.

The Nine Li Magus Maiden stepped into the passage and said to the crowd, "I'm sorry. I’ve suffered from a frail body since I was very young. I can only inconvenience everyone to make way. Sorry to anyone I’ve offended."

The Nine Li Magus Maiden's voice was gentle, like a whistling wind in spring. It made the furious mob calm down.

"Who is this woman?"

They could tell that she enjoyed an extremely high status from the way Aged Blackrock treated her. She was definitely an important figure in the Nine Li Magus Empire.

But what really vexed them was that the path that was opened up by pushing them away was not only walked by the Nine Li Magus Maiden, but Yi Yun as well.

Yi Yun followed the Nine Li Magus Maiden and walked almost alongside her.

Everyone there was a true alchemist. Yi Yun was only a junior. What gave him the right to enjoy such preferential treatment?

People were unconvinced that Yi Yun deserved it, especially those from the Pillheart Sect. They were even more frustrated. Their Pillheart Sect had always been treated as esteemed guests no matter where they went. Yet here they were, reduced to being small players and belittled.

"Curmudgeon Solitary, you have always claimed that your Pillheart Sect is the number one alchemy sect in the Heavenly South Great World. But aren't you still being pushed aside to make way for a junior and a mortal? It doesn't seem that impressive to me!" said a white-dressed middle-aged man standing beside Patriarch Pillheart with a smile.

This white-dressed man was none other than Ouming Yin. Like Patriarch Pillheart, he too was an alchemist sage. Although he was generationally lower in standing than the Patriarch Pillheart, he thought highly of himself. He never showed much respect to the Patriarch Pillheart. This caused quite a rift between them.

"Isn't it the same with you? You claim to be the number one genius in the world of alchemy but in the eyes of the Nine Li Magus Empire, you are nothing but shit," said Patriarch Pillheart coldly.

That put an end to the verbal war with Ouming Yin, so instead the Patriarch Pillheart followed Yi Yun and the Nine Li Magus Maiden into the depths of the desolate plains.

He held back his anger for he wanted to fully comprehend the Herb Nurturing Array, smacking the Nine Li Magus Empire's figurative face in the process. At the same time, he wanted to settle scores with Yi Yun. The Pillheart Sect's Elders would not have died in vain.

Behind Patriarch Pillheart, many alchemists followed him into the desolate lands.

They walked rather slowly and, after an hour, they arrived in the middle of the Herb Nurturing Array.

"This is the array's core."

Although the alchemists that were present could not fully comprehend the Herb Nurturing Array, it was not difficult for them to identify its core.

At that moment, they saw Yi Yun begin to probe the area. He would stop in front of every array pattern for a moment to ponder over it.

When Patriarch Pillheart saw Yi Yun's actions, his expression sank.

"This little bastard obtained the divine alchemist's heritage out of sheer luck. Does he really think that he's some figure of importance? There he is, deliberately acting mysterious and putting on a show."

The Patriarch Pillheart knew that the Herb Nurturing Array was no trifling matter. If one's cultivation level was lacking, it would be impossible to probe it. It was the same even if one knew the theory behind a tiny portion of the array patterns. Furthermore, how could the heritage left behind by the divine alchemist be so easy to fully understand?

"Blackrock!" Patriarch Pillheart spoke again. Although he was a lot younger than Aged Blackrock, he did not think himself as Aged Blackrock's junior. He called to him directly. "The Nine Li Magus Empire has not mentioned what rewards it will offer if the pill inside this massive array is completed."

When Patriarch Pillheart said that, everyone looked over. Instantly, the din subsided. Everyone looked at Aged Blackrock, for all of them were concerned about the question.

Aged Blackrock looked indifferently at Patriarch Pillheart and said, "Everyone has different needs. When the time comes, my Nine Li Magus Empire will naturally fulfill the needs of person who succeeds as a form of remuneration. By asking me this now, are you doubting that my Nine Li Magus Empire can afford it?"

"Hehe." Patriarch Pillheart sneered. "How could that be? After all, we will be spending a century or two here. Isn't it better to decide on the remuneration before we invest so much? Don't you think so?"

"No." Aged Blackrock disregarded him completely. "You seem to be mistaken on one point. My Nine Li Magus Empire has never invited your Pillheart Sect to study this array. It was one of your Elders named Seven Kills that kept pleading before I permitted all of you to follow. Why do you now speak as though your spending of a century or two here is sacrificing your time for the Nine Li Magus Empire? If you are unwilling to do so, just leave. If you want some remuneration, show at least some ability to complete this array before we negotiate any further."

Aged Blackrock's response left Patriarch Pillheart at a loss for words. He had a twisted expression on his face. There was nothing wrong in what was said. Indeed, his Pillheart Sect had tagged along voluntarily.

If this were any other time, the Patriarch Pillheart would have lost decorum. But now, he kept his calm.

Patriarch Pillheart said with a heavy expression, "You are thinking too lowly of the tens of millions of years of heritage my Pillheart Sect has. Although you are powerful, you do not know a thing about alchemy. Please do not draw wild conclusions or it will only end up incurring insult on yourself."

"If the Pillheart Sect can complete this pill, I do not want anything from you. All I would ask is for the Nine Li Magus Empire to not interfere with the matter between the Pillheart Sect and Yi Yun!"

As the Patriarch Pillheart said that, he suddenly looked at Yi Yun with a cold glint in his eye.

Yi Yun stopped and turned to look at Patriarch Pillheart. He locked eyes with the old freak that had lived for tens of millions of years. The old freak had set his sights on him again after reeling off on his spiel.

"That can't be done." Aged Blackrock simply and directly rejected it.

"You…" Patriarch Pillheart burned with rage. He yearned to massacre the Nine Li Magus Empire but his strength was greatly lacking.

"If you cannot accept that, just leave. My Nine Li Magus Empire would not stop you."

Aged Blackrock sneered inwardly. He did not care if the Pillheart Sect stayed. In the history of the Nine Li Magus Empire, they had invited alchemist sages to complete the array but all of them failed. What could a mere Pillheart Sect accomplish?

Aged Blackrock didn't even put any hopes in Yi Yun. After all, it was too difficult to mend the array left behind by Senior Divine Alchemist. Its nurturing could produce something that could defy fate itself. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

Just as the atmosphere turned tense, Yi Yun suddenly spoke out. "Senior Blackrock, thank you for speaking up for me. The Nine Li Magus Empire has already rendered a lot of help in my feud with the Pillheart Sect. I do not wish to trouble you any further."

Yi Yun smiled and looked back at Patriarch Pillheart. He knew that the Pillheart Sect would definitely not let the matter rest since he was still carrying the divine alchemist's heritage.

Besides, the Pillheart Sect had something Yi Yun needed. He needed the plantation methods for the Unwithering Grass so that he could make Longevity Extending Pills!

In fact, it was not only for Old Snake but for Yi Yun himself.

This plantation method involved the Pillheart Sect's most valued divine item. It could also be considered the core foundations of the Pillheart Sect!

Yi Yun said, "Your wish that the Nine Li Magus Empire would not intervene in our feud isn't anything at all. You want to obtain the divine alchemist's heritage from me and I happen to want something from you…"

"What do you want?" Patriarch Pillheart frowned. Yi Yun's indifferent expression made him extremely uncomfortable.

"Purple Numinous Herbal Soil!"

The Patriarch Pillheart's expression changed drastically when he heard Yi Yun's words.

The Pillheart Sect's possession of the Purple Numinous Herbal Soil was one of its core secrets. How did Yi Yun know?

Yi Yun continued, "You wish to obtain the divine alchemist's heritage without paying the price? Since you are that confident in your Pillheart Sect's alchemical heritage, we can give it a try. If you can complete this array, I will personally request that the Nine Li Magus Empire not intervene in our feud. But if I succeed in doing it, I want fifty kilograms of Purple Numinous Herbal Soil from the Pillheart Sect!"

Back when Yi Yun killed Su Boyang and company, he had used Poison Demon to devour and search their souls. He knew how the Unwithering Grass was planted. Unfortunately, it wasn't a problem with the technique but a result of the Pillheart Sect's special herbal soil—Purple Numinous Herbal Soil.

Through the use of Purple Numinous Herbal Soil, Unwithering Grass could be constantly grown.

Purple Numinous Herbal Soil was extraordinary. It was also recorded in the divine alchemist's manuals but even the divine alchemist had only received a tiny pot of the soil. Purple Numinous Herbal Soil was soil that had been stained with the blood of phoenixes and dragons, formed after absorbing the Heaven Earth essence for hundreds of millions of years.

Just like the Heretical God Fire Seed existed in this world, the soil also had its soil spirit that was even rarer.

If he obtained the Purple Numinous Herbal Soil, he could rear all sorts of spiritual herbs for double the results and half the effort!

True Martial World - Chapter 1343: Fate Changing

Patriarch Pillheart was an illustrious figure. Legend said that he had become an alchemist sage millions of years ago. Furthermore, he was not only an alchemist sage, he was also extremely powerful. Although they had been insulted by him, the crowd present did not dare retort. All they could do was put up with his tirade.

"Since Patriarch Solitary is that confident, quickly complete this Herb Nurturing Array and broaden our horizons."

Among the top alchemists among the ten-thousand-strong crowd, there were also other old fellows with great seniority. They did not agree with Patriarch Pillheart.

"The completion of the Herb Nurturing Array is definitely not something that can be done in a day or two. This array itself has been in operation for hundreds of millions of years. Spending a hundred years to complete would be considered too fast. If you have the patience, stay here and watch. If not, leave early," Patriarch Pillheart said with a sneer. As death was approaching him, he became more eccentric. He did not care if he offended others.

From Patriarch Pillheart's point of view, spending a hundred years or even a few centuries on studying the Herb Nurturing Array was a reasonable amount of time.

Many alchemists from large factions also had the same thoughts. To them, a few centuries wasn't considered long. Furthermore, they could understand more of the divine alchemist's Herb Nurturing Techniques from studying the array's processes. They were bound to reap immense benefits.

Of course, to Yi Yun, a few centuries sounded ridiculous. He had only cultivated for slightly more than a hundred years to date.

Yi Yun silently observed the Herb Nurturing Array left behind by the divine alchemist. He also understood the source of that familiar aura—

This was because the Herb Nurturing Array had too many similarities with the Herb Nurturing Array in the Sun Burial Sandsea!

Yi Yun had personally entered the Sun Burial Sandsea's Herb Nurturing Array. As he needed to help Ling Xie'er escape the array, he had conducted a detailed observation and study of the array patterns in the Sun Burial Sandsea.

Yi Yun felt that the Herb Nurturing Array in the Sun Burial Sandsea was more profound. It was a reasonable conclusion, as the Herb Nurturing Array in the Sun Burial Sandsea was the divine alchemist's last piece of work.

Back then, the divine alchemist had left the Heretical God Fire Seed as well as the Divine Alchemy Cauldron in the Sun Burial Sandsea, in order to refine an Elixir of Resurrection. Unfortunately, he failed.

Regardless, a pill that made the divine alchemist set up a Herb Nurturing Array was destined to be extraordinary. It was understandable why it was so difficult to refine.

This left Yi Yun somewhat curious about the pill's effects.

"Your Highness, sorry if I'm imposing. What pill is inside this Herb Nurturing Array?"

Upon hearing Yi Yun's question, the Nine Li Magus Maiden sighed slightly. She did not give him a direct answer.

"I was only curious. Your Highness, it's fine if you do not reveal it."

The Nine Li Magus Maiden shook her head. "Actually, there is nothing much to be said. Its name is the Fate Changing Pill. One pill can change one's fate, and reverse the effects of samsara."

"Oh? The Fate Changing Pill?"

Upon hearing the name, Yi Yun felt a jolt through his heart. Samsara Fate sounded abstruse. It was so abstruse that one wouldn't even know how to change it.

However, Yi Yun knew that Samsara Fate was a Great Dao law. However, there were fewer people that comprehended this Great Dao than the Chaos Dao. And those that truly grasped it was likely close to none.

Legends had it that if one grasped Samsara Fate, they would live a life similar to that of a god. One would control the samsara of all life.

At that stage, it was an unimaginable realm. No one present had any fate to be part of that.

Therefore, even though the Fate Changing Pill sounded impressive, Yi Yun did not know what it could be used for after it was successfully refined.

The Nine Li Magus Maiden seemed to read Yi Yun's thoughts and said softly, "The Fate Changing Pill was prepared for me."

"Oh? "What’s that?"

Yi Yun felt a jolt. Suddenly, he realized something.

"You can probably tell that I'm mortal. However, I was not born mortal. My fate has been changed by someone and now I'm cursed to undergo endless samsara, unable to cultivate or condense energy."

When the Nine Li Magus Maiden said this, she sighed lightly. Yi Yun was astonished when he heard that.

Back when he met Huan Chenxue, he already made similar guesses but he was unable to confirm them.

"Your Highness, how are you able to live for such long periods of time if you cannot cultivate?"

The Nine Li Magus Maiden said wistfully, "Time is a terrifying force. Without being able to absorb the Heaven Earth Yuan Qi, I'm no different from mortals. My lifespan is limited but my consciousness is indestructible. I can undergo samsara and be reproduced from Heaven Earth Yuan Qi, gaining new life."

"I have no idea how many years it has been. I have repeatedly lived through samsara and even though my consciousness does not fade, I cannot escape the natal fog. Every time I'm reborn from the Heaven Earth Yuan Qi, I have another portion of my memories sealed."

"There are many things I cannot remember after all these generations. Perhaps I will recall these memories after I defy my fate…"

"I see…" Yi Yun muttered.

The Nine Li Magus Maiden definitely had an impressive origin. If not, no one would use a curse of the Heavenly Dao to deal with her. What would happen if a Fate Changing Pill could restore her?

Huan Chenxue too. What if Huan Chenxue could be restored as well?

Yi Yun wanted to ask the Nine Li Magus Maiden what her relationship with Huan Chenxue was, but he decided against it after some deliberation.

After all, he did not know the history behind the Nine Li Magus Maiden and Huan Chenxue. It would be terrible if they were enemies. It did not seem like the Mirage Sea Realm was the Nine Li Magus Empire's match at all.

"Young Master Yi, this pill is extremely important to me. Unfortunately, the Herb Nurturing Array left behind by Senior Divine Alchemist is too complex. It will be a huge undertaking to fully understand it. I believe it will be extremely difficult for you. At least, it would be for your present self."

"Young Master Yi, I invited you here mainly to acquaint myself with you. At the same time, I also wanted you to have some contact with this Herb Nurturing Array. I hope that, one day, you would be willing to help me when you are more accomplished in alchemy. My Nine Li Magus Empire would be eternally grateful."

The Nine Li Magus Maiden's words were honest and poised. She did not conceal her motives at all. She even mentioned her hopes of befriending him. Such irreproachable conduct was something Yi Yun liked.

"Your Highness, you are being courteous. I'll do my best."

Yi Yun was also very interested in the Fate Changing Pill. After all, Huan Chenxue probably needed it to recover as well.

However, Yi Yun also knew that replicating the divine alchemist's Fate Changing Pill would be extremely difficult. There was, however, still some hope of him refining a weaker version of it. Together with the Mirage Snow sword that had something to do with Huan Chenxue's curse, perhaps that was a chance he could restore Huan Chenxue to normal.

Of course, all of this depended on him being able to complete the Fate Changing Pill.

The massive array left behind by the divine alchemist was excessively grand. Completing was not going to be a simple task.

"Your Highness, if it's convenient, I would like to enter the Herb Nurturing Array's core to take a look before making a judgment."

"Of course."

The Nine Li Magus Maiden smiled and nodded. She personally accompanied Yi Yun into the deep depths of the array.

True Martial World - Chapter 1342: Divine Alchemist's Legacy

It could've been a coincidence if only their eyes were similar, but the Nine Li Magus Maiden was also mortal. Her situation was identical to Huan Chenxue's. That made a coincidence quite unlikely.

The two women must have been related somehow.

"Senior Old Snake, regarding this woman…"

Yi Yun questioned Old Snake. Since Old Snake knew Huan Chenxue, he naturally had to understand the secret behind the Magus Maiden.

However, Yi Yun never expected Old Snake to spend a while pondering before sending Yi Yun a voice transmission. "I do not know who she is either."

"Senior, you don't?" Upon hearing Old Snake's words, Yi Yun was speechless. From Yi Yun's point of view, Old Snake had lived for eons. He should’ve known a thing or two.

"What's so strange about it? It's not like I'm omnipotent and omniscient. That lass Chenxue's race is even more ancient than my Soaring Serpent race. Although I have had some interaction with her, I do not fully understand the various secrets of that ancient secret race."

…

"My young friend, Yi Yun. This is our Magus Maiden," introduced Aged Blackrock.

At that moment, the black-dressed woman had already stood up. She walked towards Yi Yun. "Young Master Yi, it's a pleasure to meet you. Sorry for troubling you by making you come all this way."

Yi Yun cupped his fists and said, "Your Highness, it's nothing. The Nine Li Magus Empire helped extricate me from a tough situation in Cloud Pool City, so how could it be a trouble?"

Upon hearing Yi Yun's words, the Nine Li Magus Maiden gave a faint smile and said, "I heard from Senior Blackrock that although you were surrounded when he arrived, you appeared unflustered. I'm sure you would have extricated yourself from that perilous situation even without our help."

The black-veiled woman's voice was gentle and alluring. The way she spoke no doubt easily won a favorable impression from others.

Yi Yun smiled without a response. Instead, he asked, "Your Highness, I wonder what the Nine Li Magus Empire has invited me here for."

The Nine Li Magus Maiden shook her head and said, "Young Master Yi, there's no rush. My main goal in inviting you here is to acquaint myself with you. As for what must be done… I'll bring you there to take a look. However, the matter is just too difficult. Perhaps you might not be able to complete it now, but there will come a day when it can be completed. When that happens, my Nine Li Magus Empire will definitely be eternally grateful."

As the Nine Li Magus Maiden spoke, she stood up. Yi Yun and Aged Blackrock followed behind her as she went through a corridor and entered a massive square. There were already more than ten thousand people gathered there. These people were the alchemists and warriors from elsewhere.

The people from the Pillheart Sect were naturally there too.

"It's Yi Yun. That little bastard is coming."

Upon seeing Yi Yun, the Pillheart Sect members spoke in murmurs. As the saying goes, enemies see red the moment they meet. This was even more apparent when the Pillheart Sect realized that Yi Yun had received preferential treatment. He had been brought by Aged Blackrock to meet someone but they had been left waiting. They were naturally unhappy about it.

"Who is that woman?"

The Pillheart Sect crowd were baffled when they saw the Nine Li Magus Maiden. Wasn't she a mortal?

Why would a mortal appear here? Furthermore, she seemed to be of high standing?

"Since all of you come from afar, join us in witnessing this."

The Nine Li Magus Maiden did not mind the huge crowd in the square. She produced a tiny, exquisite dagger seemingly from nowhere and sliced her palm, causing it to drip blood.

The blood did not drip onto the ground and instead was absorbed by some energy. It flew into mid-air and the drop of blood seemed to land on an invisible water surface before disappearing. Simultaneously, the blood drop seemed to stir ripples across the water surface as beautiful ripples emanated outwards slowly.

"This is…"

At the moment the ripples appeared, people felt an ancient and vast aura inundate them. It made them feel like they had transmigrated to an ancient void where they witnessed the legends of the ancient world.

They saw an entrance appear in the middle of where the blood drop was. From the entrance, they could see the boundless edge of another massive world. That world seemed like a scene of devastation. It was filled with swaths of desert that resembled an ancient battlefield.

"Here is it. Those who want to see it, follow me."

After the Nine Li Magus Maiden said that, she slowly walked into that world.

At that moment, the entrance had expanded to two hundred feet wide. After a slight hesitation, the crowd from the square began to shuffle in.

When they stepped into the desert, it felt like they were stepping on the vestiges of history from hundreds of millions of years ago. The crowd proceeded slowly until a dark red ancient runic pattern appeared beneath the sand. It seemed to turn the sand into blood.

It was a massive array.

Everyone was astonished. The massive array was no trifling matter. It was unknown what its purpose was.

And when Yi Yun stepped in, he felt something extremely familiar. It was…

"This world is a pocket world created by my Nine Li race. Senior Divine Alchemist had set up a massive array in this world. This array has already existed for a very, very long time. Its goal is to… nurture a pill."

When the Nine Li Magus Maiden said those words slowly, everyone present felt a jolt.

Nurture a pill?

A massive array that filled a world was actually a Herb Nurturing Array!

There were many alchemists present. They knew how difficult it was to refine many pills. Alchemists would often choose to refine an incomplete pill before placing it in a massive array to nurture it for thousands of years before the pill would be ready.

But the massive array before them was not as simple as any ordinary Herb Nurturing Aray. Just from the numinous array patterns, they could appreciate how terrifying the massive array was.

"What pill is it that requires one to go to such great lengths?"

"It was said that Senior Divine Alchemist left something unfinished. Could it be this pill? Then, wouldn't it mean that this array has been in operation for hundreds of millions of years?"

People realized this conundrum as they drew gasps. It would be extremely shocking to nurture a pill or herb for a hundred thousand years using typical Herb Nurturing Techniques. A million years of nurturing almost never happened. After all, Divine Lords only lived for a few million years.

What did it mean to nurture a pill for hundreds of millions of years!?

The Nine Li Magus Maiden nodded. "That's right, this is a legacy of Senior Divine Alchemist. However, this array formation was not meant to be in operation for hundreds of millions of years. Unfortunately, Senior Divine Alchemist never returned after he left. He was unable to finish the pill within the array. And with Senior Divine Alchemist gone, no alchemist has been capable of finishing it. My Nine Li race has gathered alchemists from all over the world numerous times to study it but to no avail."

"We have been maintaining the operation of this massive array all these years. The worldly essence that has been accumulated over hundreds of millions of years has reached an unimaginable amount. We do not know how much the pill within the array has evolved…" said the Nine Li Magus Maiden lightly. Every word she said left one astonished!

If that were the case, the value of the pill was beyond imagination!

"That is truly a huge commitment…" An alchemist who was advanced in his years said wistfully. "Only Senior Divine Alchemist could leave behind such a miracle. I will not be able to attain Senior Divine Alchemist's level even after dedicating all my life to alchemy…"

"This array is too majestic in scale. We will probably not be able to complete it." another alchemist said.

They had come hoping to broaden their horizons after hearing about the item the divine alchemist had left behind. They also had the wish that they might be able to complete the item left behind by the divine alchemist. If they succeeded, not only would they gain fame, they would also receive immense benefits. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

But just from looking at the Herb Nurturing Array that had been in operation for hundreds of millions of years, they began bemoaning their inadequacies. How were they to complete an array of such massive scale?

Instantly, many alchemists decided to give up. All that was left was for them to broaden their horizons.

…

At that moment, an elderly voice resounded among the crowd. The person was an elder who wore a heavy cape.

"To think an unfinished Herb Nurturing Array frightens you that much. None of you even have the courage to probe the profundity of it. With such a disposition, how can you call yourselves alchemists?"

When they heard the elder's words, the alchemists who had previously commented were enraged. Who was it that spoke so arrogantly!?

Just as they were about to retort, they instantly shut up when they saw who the caped elder was.

The elder was standing amongst the Pillheart Sect delegation. It was unknown why no one noticed him in the beginning.

And what was more shocking was that the Pillheart Sect's True Lord Seven Kills was respectfully standing behind him.

"What…"

People knew True Lord Seven Kills's standing in the Pillheart Sect. He was nearly equal to the sect master. There was only one person that could garner True Lord Seven Kills's respect—Patriarch Pillheart.

"That elder is the Patriarch Pillheart!? The Patriarch Pillheart actually came here too?"

"Didn't he seal himself in Bloodcull Jade? It has been more than a million years since he last showcased his skill."

People were astounded. In order to extend their lifespans, patriarchs would seal themselves in Bloodcull Jade. Only when their sects experienced danger would they appear to ensure the light bestowed on the sect by providence lasted for tens of millions of years.

Old monsters that sealed themselves in Bloodcull Jade would have their lifespans greatly shortened every time they came out of it. People never expected that the Patriarch Pillheart would pay such a price to come personally for the divine alchemist's legacy in the Nine Li Magus Empire!

True Martial World - Chapter 1341: River of Forgetfulness

In the northern desolate lands of the Heavenly South Great World was a desert that spanned half a million kilometers. It was dry and silent in a way that made it seem untraversable.

Not only were beasts few in these desolate lands, the Yuan Qi was also extremely thin. It made it difficult to produce any natural treasures; therefore, few warriors would ever go there.

However, people did know that the most mysterious Nine Li Magus Empire of the Heavenly South Great World was located in this stretch of desolate land. It took up about five thousand kilometers of it.

Over the past few days, groups of warriors and alchemists would rush over to the northern desolate lands and locate the entrance to the Nine Li Magus Empire using maps.

From afar, one could see the Nine Li Magus Empire was situated on a lofty mountain that had clouds lingering around it. The entire empire was being enveloped in an array formation, as though it was sealed in an alternate dimension.

"This is the Nine Li Magus Empire."

"The Heavenly South Peaks Meet has ended. Yi Yun should be arriving here with Aged Blackrock. When that happens, the entrance to the empire will naturally open."

There were more than ten thousand people gathered outside the empire's entrance. Most of them were alchemists and many of them had come from afar. They had specially traveled there to witness the spectacle.

The red sun was gradually setting in the west as night began to fall over the vast wilderness. Aged Blackrock and company were scheduled to arrive anytime now.

At that moment, there was a faint phoenix cry. When they looked up, they saw a golden phoenix that reflected the blood sun as it flew in from the west.

The phoenix flew slowly but in moments, it had arrived outside the Nine Li Magus Empire's entrance. It circled the land before charging back up into the sky. A white-dressed middle-aged man landed from the phoenix's back.

He looked radiant and his skin was as tender as a baby's. He tied his hair with a band and looked extraordinarily handsome.

People were shocked when they saw him.

"West Desolate Alchemist King—Ouming Yin!"

Someone identified the newcomer. He was not from the Pillheart Sect but an alchemist sage from the West Desolate Great World!

Before Aged Blackrock and the Pillheart Sect arrived, an alchemist sage had already arrived.

The appearance of an alchemist sage overshadowed many alchemy sects. Many of the sects had never produced an alchemist sage since their inception.

People began to truly realize the massive stir the grand event had brought to the alchemy world. It was more intense than they had expected.

The sun finally set as the bright moon appeared in the sky. At that moment, people saw the gigantic Tenebrous City floating over from another direction in the sky.

The Nine Li people were finally here!

Following the Nine Li Tenebrous City was a massive cauldron. It belonged to none other than the Pillheart Sect.

It was obvious that the item left behind by the divine alchemist was something the Pillheart Sect placed great importance on. Furthermore, the Nine Li Magus Empire was involved. The Pillheart Sect had sent its strongest delegation, with even the Pillheart Sect's alchemist sage coming as well.

With the descent of Tenebrous City, the Nine Li Magus Empire's entrance finally opened. It was as though the skies opened up, revealing a passage into another world.

The extremely mysterious Nine Li Magus Empire finally pulled off its veil to the world.

The Tenebrous City directly entered while the Nine Li Magus Empire did not prevent any other faction from entering. However, they had set up a passage specifically for the visitors. They could only follow the pre-established path and were not allowed to wander around.

The number of people entering the Nine Li Magus Empire continued to increase. People discovered many mighty figures that they had never noticed while waiting.

The people followed Tenebrous City. The path set up by the Nine Li Magus Empire was extremely special. It looked like a meandering riverbed with its waters long dried up. Every spot on the riverbed had lingering vestiges of time.

They followed the dried-up riverbed and walked for a very long time. With the speed warriors could travel, they estimated they had far exceeded five thousand kilometers. If they were outside the Nine Li Magus Empire, they would have long traversed the empire in its entirety. But now, it seemed impossible for them to see the end of the riverbed.

"Little Yun, this riverbed is somewhat odd…"

In Tenebrous City, Old Snake's voice suddenly sounded in Yi Yun's ears.

Over the past few days, Old Snake had leisurely stayed in Yi Yun's God Advent Tower. Naturally, he came with Yi Yun to the Nine Li Magus Empire.

"What's odd about it?"

Yi Yun also felt that the riverbed was somewhat abnormal. As they proceeded across the riverbed, it felt like they were retrospecting history. Every segment they passed seemed as though they had just experienced a completely different time in space.

"This river's waters have already dried. I cannot be completely certain but the nomological auras left behind remind me of the River of Forgetfulness…"

Old Snake had lived for very long so he was extremely knowledgeable. His words left Yi Yun astonished.

River of Forgetfulness!?

The ancient twelve Fey Gods were Extreme Yang Illumination, Extreme Yin Nether Glow, Empress Earth Dao Tree, etc. They were all manifestations of the various laws.

They were not necessarily all in the shape of a lifeform. For example, the eighth Fey God, River of Forgetfulness, was an endless surging river. And what flowed in the river was not water, but time.

The river of time advanced forever and the direction in which it surged forward was the future. And the past was destined to be forgotten as history would eventually be buried by the vestiges of time.

Therefore the river of time was also named the River of Forgetfulness.

Both the eighth Fey God, River of Forgetfulness, and the ninth Fey God that represented the spatial dimension laws, Solitary Nothingness, represented the original space-time laws that were first formed in the universe's chaotic state. Therefore, how could Yi Yun not be astonished when Old Snake mentioned that he could sense the aura of the River of Forgetfulness from the dried riverbed?

"Senior Old Snake, are you telling me this riverbed is what it looks like after the River of Forgetfulness withers away?"

"I'm not sure. Perhaps it's just a distributary of the River of Forgetfulness. Perhaps the River of Forgetfulness's waters had flowed in it at one time. Regardless, the Nine Li Magus Empire is a lot more mysterious than I originally guessed."

While Yi Yun was conversing with Old Snake, Tenebrous City finally descended.

What appeared in front of Yi Yun was an ancient palace complex. Yi Yun saw the people living in the palaces. They were the people of the Nine Li Magus Empire but they looked no different from ordinary people.

In the middle of the palace stood a tall altar. Six massive columns, with each of them seemingly propping up the sky, maintained an ancient fortification array formation.

As for the dried riverbed, it did not end at the palace. Instead, it continued beyond the palace and stretched into the horizon with an unknown terminal point.

"We are here. I'll bring you to meet the Magus Maiden," said Aged Blackrock. When he said that, he walked straight into a palace.

Yi Yun silently followed. As for the others that had entered the Nine Li Magus Empire, they were still waiting outside the palace.

Yi Yun followed Aged Blackrock as he passed through numerous corridors. The Nine Li Magus Empire's palaces were oddly quiet and there were few people in them. It was spartan, lacking the commonly seen rockery and streams of other palaces. Replacing those fixtures were ancient and mysterious totem sculptures, as well as Nine Li hex imprints everywhere.

"It's here."

Aged Blackrock pushed open a door that led into a hall. Yi Yun looked at the door. On both sides of it were twelve carvings. They were none other than the twelve Fey Gods. Of course, after the ninth Fey God, Solitary Nothingness, the remaining three spots were empty.

The engravings of the twelve Fey Gods contained the laws that each Fey God represented. It made anyone standing in the hall experience a strong shock.

And following that, Yi Yun saw the owner of the hall. She was a women with a black veil across her face.

The instant Yi Yun saw the woman, he felt an extremely familiar aura. He could not help but falter.

Had he seen this woman before?

His gaze could not help but land on the Nine Li Magus Maiden's eyes. Searching through his memories, Yi Yun was astonished. The eyes resembled those of one person.

Huan Chenxue!

"You are…"

Yi Yun nearly blurted out the name Huan Chenxue but he immediately stopped himself from doing so.

He came to the realization that the Nine Li Magus Maiden in front of him was not Huan Chenxue. Although she had covered her face, he could sense minute differences between the aura effused by the Nine Li Magus Maiden and that of Huan Chenxue.

Huan Chenxue was like a lofty mountain in white snow. She reflected sunlight, pure and without blemish. Although she was cold, it made others wish to approach her.

As for the woman in front of him, her eyes were identical to Huan Chenxue’s. But they were not as clear as Huan Chenxue's. Instead, they were like a deep, bottomless lake. And her aura was even more mysterious, like an Abyssal Red Lotus.

However, there was one aspect in which she was identical to Huan Chenxue. Yi Yun could not detect any energy fluctuations from her body.

She was only a mortal…

True Martial World - Chapter 1340: Grand Event of the Alchemical World

In fact, many large sects had rather underhanded origins. It was difficult to be rich without a windfall, after all, so if one were stuck putting all their time into honestly gathering resources and cultivating, how was one to establish a formidable sect that dominated several Great Worlds?

However, to actually flaunt heritage that had been obtained from tomb robbing as the product of the sect’s own efforts and create many historical fabrications to conceal that fact, it would be embarrassing if that were exposed by others.

At that moment, Elder Seven Kills was undoubtedly feeling extremely embarrassed.

"So that's how your Pillheart Sect was able to thrive," said Jing Yuesha with a sneer. She was previously stifled by Elder Seven Kills and felt extremely uncomfortable. Now, she had finally obtained a chance to strike back. "You even accused Yi Yun of stealing your heritage. How shameless. You should give your heritage to Yi Yun."

In the quiet square, Jing Yuesha's voice easily resounded through the area. Elder Seven Kills's face turned as black as the bottom of a wok.

"You lass, you have no right to comment on my Pillheart Sect's history!" Although the Pillheart Sect's origins had been exposed, Elder Seven Kills continued gritting his teeth and said, "Senior Blackrock is right. However, who hasn't obtained a tiny portion of ancient heritage from ruins? Didn’t Yi Yun do the same? What right does he have to say that his heritage is more legitimate?"

"Your Pillheart Sect used an array fragment to determine that the Divine Alchemy Cauldron is with Yi Yun. If you weren't sure that Yi Yun's heritage was extraordinary, would you have gone to such great efforts? Since you have already made the judgment, why do you ask despite knowing the answer?"

Aged Blackrock's words left True Lord Seven Kills speechless.

He never expected that the divine alchemist had such deep ties with the Nine Li Magus Empire. With the Nine Li Magus Empire barging into the matter, it made it impossible for the Pillheart Sect to take Yi Yun away. But how could True Lord Seven Kills be willing to end up with nothing?

"Yi Yun, what's your opinion on the matter I discussed with you earlier?" Aged Blackrock did not even care about True Lord Seven Kills. True Lord Seven Kills's reaction towards Yi Yun's staying or departing was not something he cared about either way.

Yi Yun smiled. He naturally would not reject such an offer. He cupped his fists and said, "Senior, I'm willing to go with you. However, the Heavenly South Peaks Meet is about to begin. My companions are participating in the Heavenly South Peaks Meet, so is it possible to wait for a few more days? After that, can I head to the Nine Li Magus Empire with my companions?"

Yi Yun was worried that if he left with Aged Blackrock, the Pillheart Sect would harm the Clear Lunar Island people.

Aged Blackrock nodded. "Definitely. It has been so long since Senior Divine Alchemist departed, so a few days will make no difference. I will have Tenebrous City stay above Cloud Pool City. If you are interested, you can enter Tenebrous City with me and watch the Heavenly South Peaks Meet's tournament from there."

Many people from large factions had indescribable feelings when they heard Aged Blackrock's words. Yi Yun had truly lucked out!

They originally thought that Yi Yun was doomed but they never expected him to be invited to the Nine Li Magus Empire. Furthermore, he could step into the Nine Li Magus Empire with Aged Blackrock. Who knew how many opportunities would be made available to him!

"Senior, thank you for your invitation. I'll just watch here from the square."

When Yi Yun said that, Aged Blackrock nodded. Just as he was about to return to Tenebrous City, True Lord Seven Kills suddenly shouted, "Wait!"

"Oh?" Aged Blackrock looked at him.

"Senior Blackrock. I have a question. Was the item left behind by Senior Divine Alchemist in the Nine Li Magus Empire related to alchemy?"

Aged Blackrock hesitated slightly before nodding.

True Lord Seven Kills drew a gasp. A glint coruscated in his eyes. "Senior Blackrock, I will not deny that my Pillheart Sect's heritage comes from the Windsong Ruins as you mentioned. However, you should understand that the Windsong Ruins' heritage is only a portion of the various heritages my Pillheart Sect has!"

"My Pillheart Sect has been established for thirty-eight million years. Before we even entered the Windsong Ruins, we had already accrued a lot. After the Windsong Ruins, my Pillheart Sect similarly took in all of the ancient heritage and in the past ten million years, my Pillheart Sect has produced numerous elites. All of them have been geniuses with deep knowledge in alchemy!"

"Senior Blackrock, if you were to say that my Pillheart Sect is inferior to Senior Divine Alchemist, I would admit that!"

"But if you claim that my Pillheart Sect's ten million years of collective experience is incomparable to a lad like Yi Yun, I refuse to believe it!"

True Lord Seven Kills's voice was forceful. Furthermore, it was said with reason, winning him the agreement of others.

How could the famous Pillheart Sect be inferior to Yi Yun?

Aged Blackrock gave Seven Kills a nonchalant glance. "The item left behind by Senior Divine Alchemist is not something that can be mended with heritage alone. Although I have specially invited my young friend, Yi Yun, to take a look, I do not bear any hopes that he can accomplish the task. If you insist on participating, I will not stop you either."

After Aged Blackrock said that, he turned and flew away.

In fact, he agreed with True Lord Seven Kills on something. Yi Yun was still lacking in experience. Although the divine alchemist's heritage was impressive, what Yi Yun could have learned in his few years was limited. If the Pillheart Sect's alchemical experts joined, they might even give Yi Yun some inspiration.

…

The intervention of the Nine Li Magus Empire at the Heavenly South Peaks Meet caught many people by surprise, especially when the matter involved mending something left behind by the divine alchemist. It left many people excited. As for the Heavenly South Peaks Meet tournament, people’s interest in it waned.

In a few days, the news about the Heavenly South Great World spread. Even neighboring Great Worlds sent alchemical sages, with them hoping to probe the secrets of the divine alchemist's heritage. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

People knew very well that the item left behind by the divine alchemist was extremely important to the Nine Li Magus Empire. They could not help but be curious over what it was.

Three days later, the results of Jing Yuesha's participation in the Heavenly South Great World's tournament were out. Jing Yuesha fought very seriously and her final results were rather good. She entered the finals and obtained twentieth place. She deserved to be proud for obtaining such a ranking in a genius tournament jointly organized by numerous Great Worlds.

Clear Lunar Island Lord was very pleased with her disciple's results. With the tournament ending, it was time for Yi Yun to leave with Aged Blackrock.

And at that moment in Cloud Pool City, the number of experts from all walks of life increased instead of decreasing. It was very easy to see alchemists and their helpers on the roads. Over the past few days, all the alchemical stores in Cloud Pool City had a surge in business.

The name Divine Alchemist was just too influential. Even though he had been forgotten by ordinary warriors, he was a godlike existence in many alchemical sects with long histories. Being able to see the divine alchemist's heritage was a long cherished goal.

Aged Blackrock only watched silently as more and more alchemists entered Cloud Pool City. He did not stop them.

In fact, the ancient Nine Li had once gathered alchemists all over the world in a bid to complete the item left behind by the divine alchemist. Back then, the situation was no way inferior to what was happening now.

However, too much time had passed and that grand event was lost to the ravages of time.

True Martial World - Chapter 1339: Windsong Ruins

"Yes, I am Yi Yun."

Yi Yun cupped his fists and said in a calm voice. While the elder was observing him, he too was observing the elder. Yi Yun did not sense any animosity coming from the elder but he would not easily lower his guard. Old Snake had already sent him a voice transmission saying that the elder with the pigtail was very strong.

Old Snake's appraisal was enough to certify how formidable the elder was.

The elder smiled as he stroked his beard. "How true it is that heroes come from the youth. I heard that when you first arrived in Cloud Pool City, you restored the Love Seeking Phoenix In Clouds created by a particular Alchemist Zhang of the Pillheart Sect. Later you spent a great deal to purchase an Abyssal Red Lotus Seed. I made this trip here to Cloud Pool City especially because I am interested in befriending you, my young friend. Let me introduce myself. I have not used my name for a long time but I do hold the title of Blackrock. Just call me Aged Blackrock."

Upon hearing Aged Blackrock, everyone present felt their hearts jolt.

He was… Aged Blackrock!?

As the Nine Li Magus Empire had isolated itself, outsiders did not know much about the experts within the empire. However, the name Blackrock could chill a person's heart with at its mere mention.

Over the recent tens of millions of years, the Nine Li Magus Empire had faced several major wars. Some factions suspected that the Nine Li Magus Empire's tiny territory contained a astounding secret. And it was this secret that made the Nine Li Magus Empire fortify and stay sheltered in that tiny space for hundreds of millions of years.

They wanted to probe for the truth and perhaps obtain immense benefits as a result. They believed that if they waited long enough, the isolated Nine Li Magus Empire would lose all of its experts to the ravages of time. Therefore, they launched multiple wars against the Nine Li Magus Empire. But in several of those wars, Aged Blackrock would massacre the opposing forces, sending chills down people's backs!

Just a mention of the name Aged Blackrock would change the expressions of many. That was not even the most pertinent point. The most spectacular thing was that it had been nearly ten million years since Aged Blackrock had last been seen showcasing his strength.

How long had the old man lived? Based on the records in various canons of large factions, Aged Blackrock didn’t look much different from how he did thirty million years ago. That meant that he had lived for at least forty to fifty million years!

Why was he still alive?

Elder Seven Kills drew a gasp. In front of the elder, he felt flustered. Back when this elder was committing massacre after massacre, his master's master had yet to be born.

The older the elder, the weaker their vital potential would be. Their strength would also decline from that of their peak years. But there were some people who seem to exceed that limit. Their lives seemed infinite and were counted in units of ten million years. It left one despairing upon comparison!

Typically, Divine Lords that fused a Royal Seal would be addressed as True Lords. Even they could only live for a few million years. For instance, if the Patriarch Pillheart wished to live longer, he would need to seal himself in Bloodcull Jade. Through slumbering, he could survive for a longer period of time. He would not take action unless absolutely necessary. Only in this way could he live for twenty to thirty million years.

However, this was almost no different from living as an underground corpse. In comparison, Aged Blackrock was lively and could go anywhere he wanted. The difference was stark.

"Could this old man be a Godly Monarch…"

Elder Seven Kills had such a thought but immediately shrugged it away. It was impossible for him to be at the Godly Monarch realm. That was too difficult to achieve. Besides, a Godly Monarch's lifespan was even more terrifying.

"I see, you are Senior Blackrock. It is my honor to make your acquaintance."

Since Blackrock had shown kind intentions, Yi Yun naturally responded politely.

The elder smiled in satisfaction and added, "My young friend, Yi Yun, I came here for something your master left in my Nine Li Magus Empire."

Your master?

Yi Yun pricked up his brows but he soon understood what the elder meant. The master the elder was referring to was the divine alchemist.

Yi Yun had obtained the complete inheritance of the divine alchemist, and now Ling Xie'er was following him. It was not wrong to call the divine alchemist Yi Yun's master.

"I'm pretty certain you do not know what your master left behind. But in fact, it is extremely important to my Nine Li Magus Empire. If you are willing to help us complete this item, my Nine Li Magus Empire will reward you handsomely."

Upon hearing Blackrock's words, the people from the Pillheart Sect were stunned. Was the elder referring to the mysterious divine alchemist?

What was the thing that the divine alchemist left behind in the Nine Li Magus Empire? Whatever it was, it was something they called extremely important. They would reward him handsomely. Just the thought of it left people excited.

Furthermore, if they could just see the item the divine alchemist had left behind in the Nine Li Magus Empire, it would likely broaden their horizons, and was an opportunity in and of itself.

Not only were the members of the Pillheart Sect enticed, even Yi Yun's interest was stirred. He asked, "Senior Blackrock, what might you be referring to? If there is truly something left behind by my master, I believe it must be quite impressive to have been preserved by your esteemed empire to this day. I am still lacking in knowledge and might not be able to complete it."

Yi Yun was acutely aware how lacking he was when compared to the divine alchemist in terms of alchemical skills. Although he had the Purple Crystal Origins to make up for it, true mastery still needed immense amount of time and experience that could not be bridged with shortcuts.

"You will know once you come with me," said Blackrock casually. Upon hearing this, Elder Seven Kills turned anxious.

Aged Blackrock was clearly going to take Yi Yun away. With the old bastard around, his plan to surround Yi Yun would likely go up in smoke. Not only that, he needed to stop the old bastard from bringing Yi Yun into contact with something left behind by the divine alchemist!

"Wait!" Elder Seven Kills shouted.

"Oh?" Blackrock looked at Elder Seven Kills. "Fellow Daoist, are you trying to stop me from bringing Yi Yun with me?"

Elder Seven Kills naturally did not have the guts to nod. He knew well that, since ancient times, any faction that opposed the Nine Li Magus Empire was finished. He gritted his teeth and said, "Senior Blackrock, please do not be mistaken. The Divine Alchemist is my Pillheart Sect's Ancestral Master. And over the past tens of millions of years, my Pillheart Sect has used knowledge from myriad sources to constantly improve upon the divine alchemist's heritage. If Senior Divine Alchemist had left anything, it should be us from the Pillheart Sect that completes it!"

Divine Alchemist?

When the crowd heard this name, everyone was stunned. Most of them did not know who Elder Seven Kills was referring to but there were others who fell into deep thought before seemingly remembering something.

The divine alchemist was once extremely famous but as in all ancient history, illustrious figures were eventually buried and became mere vestiges of the past. Now, there were very few people in the Heavenly South Great World that knew of the divine alchemist.

When the Pillheart Sect surrounded Yi Yun, they made special care to avoid mentioning the name, 'Divine Alchemist.' In fact, they were afraid that other large factions would investigate the matter and learn just how impressive Yi Yun's heritage was.

Now, however, such an existence had been alluded to by the Nine Li Magus Empire. Elder Seven Kills felt there was no longer a need to conceal the matter.

"My Pillheart Sect is the true inheritor of the divine alchemist. Yi Yun only stole a tiny portion of our heritage and has used it to earn undeserved fame, deceiving and beguiling people in the process. Senior Blackrock, please investigate the matter!"

"The Nine Li Magus Empire has always stayed in its city, aloof from the matters of the world. Today, I wish for Senior Blackrock to be the judge and retrieve the heritage that belongs to my Pillheart Sect. Furthermore, Yi Yun machinated a ploy to kill my Pillheart Sect’s Elders. It is an unpardonable crime. Senior, please permit my Pillheart Sect to take him away for punishment! As for the item you want to complete, my Pillheart Sect will definitely complete it! We will guarantee your satisfaction!"

Elder Seven Kills spoke loudly with a voice filled will gusto. He had a hot temper but his tone was extremely polite. This was because he vaguely sensed that the opportunity before him was no trifling matter for the Pillheart Sect.

"Heh…"

Upon hearing True Lord Seven Kills's words, Aged Blackrock chuckled. The smile sent a jolt into True Lord Seven Kills's heart. He did not know what Aged Blackrock was laughing about.

"The reason you have the courage to say that is the Windsong Ruins, am I right?"

Aged Blackrock suddenly said something that did not make sense from any way of thinking. Many people present were puzzled by the question but True Lord Seven Kills's expression changed. He widened his eyes as he looked incredulously at Aged Blackrock.

How did he know!?

Aged Blackrock added, "The origins of the Pillheart Sect stem from the Windsong Ruins, isn't that so? Windsong was an ancient divine empire of the Heavenly South Great World. Back then, it had many correspondences with my ancient Nine Li. Its downfall is truly a pity. Ten million years ago, when its royal capital's ruins were opened, I too visited them. I went there with the intention of paying my respects to the ancient divine empire, never to take anything from there. It was a coincidence that I saw your Pillheart Sect ancestors there. They found some items, including a few manuals left behind by Senior Divine Alchemist…"

Aged Blackrock recounted this historical tidbit casually. When True Lord Seven Kills heard that, he turned stiff like a wooden block.

Aged Blackrock had actually been to the Windsong Ruins as well? He had lived for so long that the entire history of the Pillheart Sect was probably shorter than Aged Blackrock's lifespan. How could he not know of the Pillheart Sect's history if he had watched it develop from its nascent roots?

As for the Windsong ancient empire, it actually had correspondence with the ancient Nine Li. So how could the Nine Li Magus Empire not know of the remnants left behind in the ruins?

At that moment, many people present could not help but murmur. True Lord Seven Kills felt his face burn, and he wished that he could instantly vanish. Both he and the Pillheart Sect had frequently bragged about their deep roots and long heritage. Just moments ago, he had claimed his sect as the successor to the divine alchemist, mocking and scolding Yi Yun as nothing more than a thief.

But now, the truth of Pillheart Sect was revealed by Aged Blackrock. By rummaging through the ruins of the Windsong Empire, it made them no different from a band of tomb raiders that eventually hit it big.

Instead, Yi Yun had been addressed as the divine alchemist's successor by Aged Blackrock.

With such a reversal, how was the Pillheart Sect going to redeem its reputation?

Elder Seven Kills was someone who placed great importance on his reputation. This was also why he flared when he was teased previously. Now, hearing the murmurs from the crowd, the rage he felt nearly caused him to bleed internally!

And right at that moment, Aged Blackrock added leisurely, "The reason why the Windsong empire has manuals left behind by Senior Divine Alchemist was because he had once stayed in the Windsong empire for a rather long period of time. He even taught the juniors of the Windsong empire, and decided to leave a portion of his heritage there. None of it was intrinsic to his knowledge, however, so your Pillheart Sect cannot be considered the successors of Senior Divine Alchemist."

Aged Blackrock's explanation made Elder Seven Kills's face turn purple. He wished to kneel down and beg Aged Blackrock to stop. Any further, and he would truly vomit out blood.

True Martial World - Chapter 1338: Tenebrous City

After True Lord Seven Kills made his announcement, all the warriors present were itching for action. They were also wary of Yi Yun, knowing he was not someone easily dealt with, but there were a lot of them and only one of him. With the Celestial Vanguard's cooperation, Yi Yun was definitely at the end of his rope.

They were further enticed when they saw True Lord Seven Kills produce a red jade box. According to way the Pillheart Sect usually sold its pills, the red jade box likely contained Spirit Illumination Pills that could even allow Supremacies to make a subrealm breakthrough.

"I believe all of you can recognize this box. Inside are ten Spirit Illumination Pills. I will not be stingy towards anyone that helps in this effort! However, the heritage that Yi Yun carries belongs to my Pillheart Sect. We have to retrieve it. The Pillheart Sect's heritage has been handed down for hundreds of millions of years. Due to the long span of time, it was an unfortunate circumstance that some of it was lost. Yet, it was obtained by this little bastard. Now, he not only refuses to return it, he even uses our Pillheart Sect's heritage to deceive and beguile others, all while flaunting himself. He even schemed to murder my Pillheart Sect’s experts and pushed the blame to another party. I cannot stand to see him live a second longer!"

True Lord Seven Kills's voice resounded through the world. Many people began having ideas when they saw the Spirit Illumination Pills.

"They are actually Spirit Illumination Pills. Granny, even I want to take action."

Su Yushi looked at Yi Yun and made an impetuous decision. Although he was definitely no match for the expert protecting Yi Yun, he could deal with Yi Yun if the expert was held back by others.

The Tigercamel Mountain was lacking in strength due to a lack of resources. Su Yushi always believed that if he was supported by better resources, he could become the best genius in the Heavenly South Great World. The ten Spirit Illumination Pills greatly enticed him. Even for the monstrous Pillheart Sect, they were extremely valuable pills.

"Alright. Be careful. Don't hurt yourself," said the gray-haired woman.

"Don't worry. I'm only going to deal with Yi Yun. There won't be any danger." Su Yushi stared intently at Yi Yun as though Yi Yun was his prey.

A massive battle was imminent. As long as one person took the lead, they would immediately be followed by a barrage of attacks. Many people were waiting. Xia Zijian hung a teasing smile on his face. Although he wasn't planning on taking action, he was happy to see Yi Yun end in a terrible state.

He curled the corners of his mouth and looked at Jing Yuesha. He said derisively, "Junior Sister Jing Yuesha, why are you standing behind that punk? Do you want to accompany him in death?"

"Hmph! It's none of your business!" Jing Yuesha was infuriated. In fact, she had already received a voice transmission from Yi Yun. He had instructed her to get closer to him and not resist. She did not know what Yi Yun was planning on doing but Yi Yun had created numerous miracles before. She chose to believe in him.

At that moment, people were already gathering Yuan Qi. Some were walking closer to Yi Yun. But just as they were about to attack, there was a strange energy fluctuation that suddenly came from afar.

Oh? This is…

The energy fluctuation seemed to come from a wispy heaven. It resonated with people's souls in a mysterious manner.

Who is it!?

Some people looked toward the horizon and felt a jolt. They saw that, above a mountain range in the distance, a gigantic dark city was approaching!

A city was flying in mid-air?

The city was massive, casting dark shadows on the mountains. The city had many tall towers that shimmered with an ancient but simple black light. One could faintly hear the cries of ancient Fey beasts.

When the black city approached, people saw that the sides of the towers were embossed with a gigantic eye totem. In the middle of the eye were eight smaller eyes.

"Nine-eye totem. It's the Nine Li Magus Empire!"

Nine Li Magus Empire was an extremely mysterious country in the Heavenly South Great World. Its territory only spanned about five thousand kilometers. Compared to the Heavenly South Great World, it was like a drop in the bucket. But such a tiny country was ranked as one of the three divine empires of the Heavenly South Great World, alongside the Divine Empire of Thunder and Outcloud Empire.

Although the three empires were ranked equally, both the Outcloud Empire and Divine Empire of Thunder knew that they were completely incomparable to the Nine Li Magus Empire.

The Nine Li Magus Empire's history far exceeded both countries. Throughout history, the top factions in the Heavenly South Great World would always experience changes. At times, there would be three great factions and at other times, four. However, the Nine Li Magus Empire would always take the number one spot. Never had there been any change in that spot.

The Nine Li Magus Empire kept an extremely low profile. It did not enjoy dominance but no one dared to ignore it. History taught that any faction in the Heavenly South which fought the Nine Li Magus Empire was defeated soundly, eventually vanishing.

There were rumors that said that the people of the Nine Li Magus Empire were the descendants of an ancient mystic race. However, no one knew what the race was.

"Why is the Nine Li Magus Empire here? They seldom participate in the Heavenly South Peaks Meet. Even when they do, it’s only for the auction. But the auction has long ended and they should not be interested in the tournament at all. Why would they come today…"

King Yi was taken aback. In fact, he disliked the appearance of the Nine Li Magus Empire at any Heavenly South Peaks Meet. As the empire was too mysterious and powerful, they were not something he could control.

It was even worse now. They were just about to carve up Yi Yun's possessions. The Nine Li Magus Empire was the last thing they wanted to see.

Elder Seven Kills frowned as well. The Nine Li Magus Empire would usually practice isolationism. Massive arrays were set up around the Nine Li Magus Empire's territory and were forever active. It shut the country completely in and citizens of the empire seldom left its confines. Outsiders were also barred entry. In this way, both Nine Li Magus Empire and the rest of the Heavenly South Great World went about their own business. The Nine Li Magus Empire was almost forgotten by others, so why would they suddenly appear today?

Could it be that they were here to snatch food from the tiger's jaws? If that were the case, the Pillheart Sect had no chances of winning.

"True Lord, don't worry. The Nine Li Magus Empire does not have any alchemical heritage. This is known throughout the Heavenly South Great World. They do occasionally participate in the Heavenly South Great World's auction in order to buy pills. However, their people are likely unskilled in alchemy. They should not be interested in Yi Yun's heritage." a Pillheart Sect Elder spoke out.

Beside him, Elder Seven Kills nodded. "I hope so."

Although he said so, Elder Seven Kills could not relax when he saw the massive city's shadow approach. The feeling of losing control of the situation felt terrible. "Watch Yi Yun closely. He should not be given a chance to escape in the chaos."

As Elder Seven Kills spoke, the massive city was already floating above Cloud Pool City. One end of the city slowly entered the Cloud Pool City's fortification array and the next thing that happened made everyone draw a big gasp.

The fortification array that the Outcloud Empire had spent a sizable amount of resources to construct was no different from a water surface. It allowed the tenebrous city entry, sending ripples outwards. Yet, it did not pose any real obstruction to the city.

"Why… Why…" King Yi widened his eyes. As the overlord of Cloud Pool City, he knew how powerful the fortification array was. He had invested a lot riches over the recent years to maintain the array. It was difficult to penetrate the array even if five or six Divine Lords attacked it together. How did the Nine Li Magus Empire enter?

Old Snake was also watching in secret. He narrowed his eyes when he saw the scene happen before him. "It looks like I have underestimated the Heavenly South Great World. The various worlds in the Sinkhole with long histories are not to be looked down upon…" Old Snake muttered to himself.

He did not think much of the Pillheart Sect but the Nine Li Magus Empire managed to make him look at this world in a different light. noveltranslationweb.blogspot.com

The tenebrous city eventually came to a halt in mid-air, a thousand feet away from the square. A few shadows appeared from the bottom of the city and slowly flew over.

Leading them was an old man. He was scrawny and swarthy. His arms were thin like chicken claws. His gray hair was tied into a long pigtail that went from the back of his head to his waist.

Behind the elder were a man and woman. The man was middle-aged and he had a neutral expression. As for the woman, she was dressed in tight clothes. Her arms and ankles were revealed and were bound tightly in white cloth. She had an excellent figure but she wasn't pretty. In fact, she was rather ugly.

The mood froze when the trio arrived. Many a time the unknown was dreaded, and that effect was made more apparent when the opposite party was powerful.

King Yi's eyebrows twitched as he forced a smile, "I never expected that esteemed guests from the Nine Li Magus Empire would grace the Heavenly South Peaks Meet organized by the Outcloud Empire. We are greatly honored by your gracious presence!"

King Yi forcefully tolerated the gloom he felt and spoke as politely as possible.

"Nice to meet you."

The leading elder nodded at King Yi as a response. He ignored King Yi after saying the four words. He scanned the entire square and his eyes eventually landed on Yi Yun.

The elder did not seem to know of King Yi's identity, nor did he care about finding out who he was. This made King Yi's smile stiffen. He had a feeling that he was being left hanging. Instantly, his face twisted a little. As the overlord of Cloud Pool City, when had he ever been given the cold shoulder in such a manner?

"Might I know what the Nine Li Magus Empire is here in Cloud Pool City for?"

Upon noticing the elder's gaze, Elder Seven Kills's expression turned more twisted. He was of a violent nature so even against the Nine Li Magus Empire, he did not want to mince his words. He got straight to the point.

The elder smiled and said, "I heard of a fascinating matter that happened in the Heavenly South Great World. It's about an interesting youth so here I am…"

With that said, the elder continued looking at Yi Yun. "My young friend, I assume you are Yi Yun?"

Yi Yun stood out with so many people surrounding him. It was very easy to infer his identity.