Chapter 312: Proving The Dao Twice In The Eternal Universe! Ji Qing Enters Tian Wen City, Reunites With An Old Acquaintance!
Ji Qing was digesting the explanations of the three Ancestors of Dao regarding the cultivation system of the Cosmic Sea. While his heart was shaken, a more specific question arose.
He carefully asked, “Fellow Daoists, regarding Dao Enlightenment, are there any fixed ‘optimal combinations’ in the Cosmic Sea? For instance, if one comprehends specific Great Daos, will it inevitably lead to a smoother derivation of a universe and reaching the Beginning Realm?”
Upon hearing this, Ancestor of Huoyuan shook his head, a knowing smile appearing on his face: “Fellow Daoist Ji, this question touches upon the core of comprehending the Dao. The answer is no, there is absolutely no such inevitability.”
He continued to explain, “There are three thousand Great Daos, which is a figurative number, implying infinity. Seemingly, the ‘Saber Great Dao’ is the same, but my comprehension of it, and that of another Cosmic Level Lifeform, differs in subtle aspects and fundamental understanding, stemming from our respective experiences, temperaments, and even slight variations in the rules of our respective universes. It can be said that every Great Dao comprehended by every Cosmic Level Lifeform is unique, containing its own ‘Dao Rhyme’.”
Ancestor of Hundao chimed in, his tone carrying a sense of weariness from seeing through all phenomena: “Precisely because of this, deriving a universe is so difficult, and there is no fixed pattern to follow. Some have successfully derived it with the Five Elements Great Dao as their foundation; some have focused on Space and Time and also achieved the Beginning Realm; some have even used seemingly obscure Daos like ‘Nightmare’ and ‘Nirvana’ as their core, and still forged their own paths.”
“The key lies in whether these unique Great Daos you comprehend can achieve a unique, internal balance and harmony in your hands, thereby supporting the birth and operation of a true universe. The paths of others can be learned from, but not replicated.”
Ji Qing suddenly understood. It turned out that true cultivation, at its profound depths, was so ‘customized,’ with no shortcuts to be found. The fundamental aspect lay in one’s own unique understanding and integration ability of the Dao.
At this moment, Ji Qing remembered something and informed the three Ancestors of Dao about how he had once used the Three Corpses Fruit to cut out a Curse Clone, and that this clone had now also become a World Lord in the Eternal Universe.
Upon hearing this, a flicker of sharp light flashed in the eyes of the three Ancestors of Dao. They exchanged glances, seemingly reaching a consensus in an instant.
Ancestor of Qingming clapped his hands and chuckled lightly: “Wonderful! Fellow Daoist Ji, your clone might just be an unexpected brilliant move.”
Ancestor of Huoyuan’s eyes gleamed with calculation, and he continued, “We have resolved the crisis of the Devouring Origin Giant Beast for the Eternal Universe. The favor that fellow Siming owes is not small. When he returns, we will use this favor to secure a portion of the Eternal Universe’s Authority for you!”
Ancestor of Hundao explained in detail: “It will be legitimate to have your clone, who is a World Lord of the Eternal Universe, merge with a portion of the Eternal Universe’s Authority. At that time, your main body will be the Guixu Dao Ancestor of the Immortal Realm, and your clone will be one of the custodians of the Eternal Universe. With you overseeing both universes, their fortunes will be connected, and they will watch over and assist each other.”
“This will bring immeasurable benefits, both for your own comprehension of the Great Dao Rules of different universes and for stabilizing the alliance between the Immortal Realm and the Eternal Universe, in preparation for future risks that may arise in the Cosmic Sea.”
“You can then reside in the Eternal Universe permanently, serving as the extended eyes and strength of the Immortal Realm. Fellow Siming will likely be pleased with this as well. After all, having a Dao Ancestor-level combat power to help guard the place is something he would greatly desire.”
Ji Qing’s mind was deeply shaken by this.
A portion of the Eternal Universe’s Authority!
This was more than just gaining an additional source of power.
It also meant he could simultaneously perceive and mobilize the Origin Rules of two universes.
This would have immeasurable significance for his comprehension of his own unique Great Dao and for exploring the mysteries of deriving a universe.
Moreover, as the Ancestors of Dao had said.
This would greatly strengthen the connection between the two universes, forming a more stable alliance.
“Thank you, three Ancestors of Dao, for your guidance! This plan is excellent!”
Ji Qing suppressed the excitement in his heart and solemnly bowed to the three Ancestors of Dao.
If this move could truly be accomplished.
It would have extremely far-reaching implications for his future and the future of the Immortal Realm.
The three Ancestors of Dao nodded with smiles, feeling quite satisfied at being able to add such a firm foundation to the Immortal Realm.
The storms in the Cosmic Sea never ceased; preparation brought more composure.
With a clear path ahead, Ji Qing’s heart burned with fervor.
He immediately thought of the power he currently possessed and once again sought advice from the three Ancestors of Dao: “Fellow Daoists, I am untalented, but I have comprehended the Space Great Dao, the Five Elements Great Dao, and the Saber Great Dao so far.”
“Since Dao Techniques are infinitely powerful, may I ask the three of you to guide me and teach me some Dao Techniques suitable for me?”
“If I can cultivate them sooner, my strength will surely improve.”
He knew well that in the vast Cosmic Sea, comprehending three Great Daos was already no easy feat.
Looking across the entire Immortal Realm, countless Immortal Emperors spent their entire lives stuck within a single Great Dao. Only the three unfathomable Ancestors of Dao before him had mastered four Great Daos.
Being able to master Dao Techniques in advance would undoubtedly be a significant advantage.
However, Ancestor of Huoyuan slowly shook his head, dashing Ji Qing’s expectations: “Fellow Daoist Ji, we understand your eagerness. But Dao Techniques are by no means simply achieved by crudely combining the powers of several Great Daos. They require compatibility with the cultivator’s own unique understanding of the Great Dao, that is, that unique ‘Dao Rhyme’.”
Ancestor of Hundao further explained: “The Dao Techniques circulating in the Cosmic Sea are as numerous as the sands of the sea, but if they cannot perfectly resonate with one’s own Dao Rhyme, forcibly cultivating them will at best yield half the results for twice the effort, and at worst, could lead one astray and become a burden.”
“Your Space Great Dao is agile and ethereal, your Five Elements Great Dao is all-encompassing, and your Saber Great Dao is sharp and decisive. How these three can merge to derive a ‘Dao’ unique to you requires you to personally experience and choose.”
Ancestor of Qingming summarized, pointing the way: “Tian Wen City gathers myriad inheritances from the Cosmic Sea, and there are unique methods specifically designed to sense a cultivator’s own Dao Rhyme and assist in selecting compatible Dao Techniques. When you personally go there, you will naturally find the path most suitable for you. As for now, there is no need to rush.”
Ji Qing, though slightly regretful, also understood that the Ancestors of Dao were right. A solid foundation and the correct path were far more important than blindly pursuing power.
He suppressed the desire to become stronger immediately and said solemnly, “I understand, thank you, three Ancestors of Dao, for your guidance.”
Thus, the next step was to wait.
Both the Immortal Realm and the Eternal Universe seemed to enter a period of relative calm.
Ji Qing, while consolidating his cultivation realm and familiarizing himself with the Immortal Realm’s Authority, patiently awaited the return of that Lord of the Universe.
Time flew by, and ten years passed in the Cosmic Sea in the blink of an eye.
On this day, a boundless, majestic will, as if holding the destiny of all things, suddenly descended upon the Eternal Universe!
The Lord of Destiny had returned!
Without any need for communication, the three Ancestors of Dao in the Immortal Realm immediately sensed it.
“The time has come.”
Ancestor of Huoyuan opened his eyes, a sharp glint flashing and disappearing.
The three Ancestors of Dao immediately took Ji Qing and stepped out of the Immortal Realm, heading directly for the core origin of the Eternal Universe.
In a void hall that seemed woven from countless threads of destiny, Ji Qing met the legendary Lord of Destiny.
His form was indistinct, as if shrouded in the mist of all living beings’ destinies.
Only a pair of eyes, clear as if reflecting the stars of all ages, were so profound that one dared not look directly.
“Huoyuan, Qingming, Hundao… It has been a while.”
The voice of the Lord of Destiny was calm but carried an undeniable majesty.
His gaze paused slightly as it swept over Ji Qing, “This must be the newly appointed Dao Ancestor of the Immortal Realm, Fellow Daoist Guixu? Indeed, you are extraordinary.”
“Siming, let’s dispense with pleasantries.”
Ancestor of Huoyuan got straight to the point, “We have already resolved the crisis of the Devouring Origin Giant Beast for you. Do you acknowledge this favor or not?”
The Lord of Destiny nodded slightly, “Of course. Siming remembers the help from the three of you.”
“Good!”
Ancestor of Hundao continued, “Since that is the case, let us be direct. We hope that you will allow one of Daoist Ji Qing’s World Lord clones to… Prove the Dao in your Eternal Universe and obtain a portion of Authority.”
Upon these words, the surrounding threads of destiny seemed to pause slightly.
The gaze of the Lord of Destiny instantly became sharp, falling upon Ji Qing, then slowly sweeping over the three Ancestors of Dao. The atmosphere in the hall suddenly became somewhat tense.
A Dao Ancestor from a different universe wishing to take a share of Authority in the Eternal Universe?
This was akin to sharing a sliver of one’s lifeline with another.
Ancestor of Qingming spoke at the opportune moment, his tone calm but hitting the nail on the head: “Siming, that clone of Fellow Daoist Ji Qing was originally a World Lord nurtured by your Eternal Universe. Its foundation is here, so it is only proper for him to Prove the Dao. This action is not division, but connection.”
“Once successful, the fortunes of the Immortal Realm and the Eternal Universe will intertwine, and with a Dao Ancestor overseeing both realms’ Authority, watching over and assisting each other, it will be of great benefit, whether for confronting future risks or for dealing with the expansion of the Gods Universe.”
“For you, it simply means gaining a powerful ally who will never harm the Eternal Universe, to jointly govern it.”
The Lord of Destiny remained silent for a moment, countless light-shadows of destiny rapidly swirling and deducing within his eyes, weighing the pros and cons.
The three Ancestors of Dao remained calm and composed, clearly well-prepared for this negotiation.
After a long while, the swirling light-shadows in the Lord of Destiny’s eyes subsided.
He gave Ji Qing a deep look, then turned to the three Ancestors of Dao.
Finally, he slowly spoke, his voice carrying a trace of the weight and decisiveness of destiny:
“Yes.”
“It shall be as the three Ancestors of Dao have said. We permit Fellow Daoist Ji Qing’s clone to… Prove the Dao in my Eternal Universe!”
With the goal set, the next step was to prepare to Prove the Dao in the Eternal Universe.
This matter was not trivial; it was not a simple repetition of the process in the Immortal Realm, especially under the gaze of the origin will of a different universe. Merging its Authority involved many critical points that Ji Qing dared not be careless about.
He humbly asked the three knowledgeable Ancestors of Dao again: “Three Ancestors of Dao, are there differences in Proving the Dao in a different universe compared to one’s own? What critical points should I be aware of?”
Ancestor of Hundao stroked his beard and pondered, speaking first: “The key lies in two points. First, the cultivation system must roughly align with the target universe. Fortunately, your Curse Clone has already become a World Lord under the Eternal Universe’s cultivation system, so this aspect is worry-free. Second, and most importantly, it lies in the Mind!”
Ancestor of Huoyuan continued, his tone becoming more serious: “It is the nature of a different universe’s rules to repel outsiders. The process of Proving the Dao is essentially about using one’s own will to resist or even integrate parts of the universe’s rules. The pressure endured is far greater than in one’s own universe.”
“If the Mind is not sufficiently resilient, one will be assimilated by the different universe’s rules in an instant, or one’s will will collapse directly.”
Ancestor of Qingming looked at Ji Qing, his eyes carrying a hint of expectation: “Based on our observations, your Heart Realm has reached the Perfection of the Tenth Order, and you have given birth to the immortal Light of the Mind. This is your greatest reliance when Proving the Dao in a different universe!”
“As long as the Light of the Mind does not extinguish, you can withstand the pressure of the rules, maintain your true self, and then find the opportunity to integrate that unclaimed piece of Cosmic Authority.”
“The Mind is the fundamental basis for traversing the Cosmic Sea and establishing oneself in all realms.”
Ji Qing felt a sense of solemnity in his heart, and at the same time, he became more determined.
So, the value of the Light of the Mind was clearly demonstrated here.
He nodded solemnly: “I understand, thank you, three Ancestors of Dao, for clarifying this.”
In the blink of an eye, three months quickly passed.
After three months of adjustment, Ji Qing’s condition had also been optimized.
His Mind had reached the peak state of flawlessness, perfection, and completeness.
The day of Proving the Dao arrived as scheduled.
The location was chosen in a mysterious space closest to the Origin of the Eternal Universe.
Here, rules manifested, myriad Daos intertwined, creating a bizarre and magnificent scene.
The witnesses were few, but their presence carried immense weight.
The three Ancestors of Dao from the Immortal Realm stood to one side with solemn bearing.
The Lord of the Eternal Universe, Siming, shrouded in the mist of destiny, silently observed everything.
In addition, some of the top World Lords of the Eternal Universe, such as Star River Realm Lord, with whom Ji Qing had interacted, were allowed to observe from afar.
Star River Realm Lord and the others gazed at the figure in the center, exuding a chilling aura of curse yet subtly resonating with the origin of the Eternal Universe, their emotions a complex mix.
Astonishment, envy, disbelief… various emotions intertwined.
They had cultivated for countless years and still struggled to even approach the threshold of Cosmic Authority.
And this Guixu Dao Ancestor from the Immortal Realm was about to Prove the Dao in their Eternal Universe through his clone, becoming an existence on par with the Lord of Destiny?
This was truly shattering their understanding.
Ji Qing’s Curse Clone, with a focused mind, sensed that the time was ripe and invoked the origin of the Eternal Universe.
“Boom!”
Instantly, the entire Origin Sea boiled!
A cosmic rule pressure far more violent and exclusionary than in the Immortal Realm.
Like a hundred million invisible divine mountains.
It, carrying the unique terrifying pressure of the Eternal Universe.
Crushed down upon the will core of Ji Qing’s Curse Clone!
This pressure not only sought to obliterate his will but also carried a repulsive force of being an “outsider.”
It aimed to erase his existence entirely from the rule layer.
Ji Qing’s clone remained unshaken.
Within his Sea of Consciousness, the Light of the Mind bloomed brilliantly.
Like an inextinguishable lighthouse in a storm, it steadfastly guarded a single point of true spirit undisturbed.
No matter how the waves of rules crashed, it remained as it was, clearly sensing that one unclaimed piece of Cosmic Authority in the profound depths.
His will, like the most tenacious carving tool.
Amidst the violent waves of rules, it precisely captured that sliver of opportunity.
It began to use his own unique understanding of the “Curse Great Dao.”
To communicate with and merge with that Authority, which represented a portion of the Eternal Universe’s fundamental power.
This process was slow and steady.
To the outside observers, it appeared as though Ji Qing’s clone was enveloped by endless divine chains of rules.
Its aura would surge at times, and at other times, it would near annihilation, appearing perilous.
The three Ancestors of Dao remained calm, the Lord of Destiny’s gaze was profound, showing no emotion.
Star River Realm Lord and the others held their breath, their hands clenched in anxiety for Ji Qing, their emotions fluctuating with the rise and fall of his aura.
After an unknown period, which felt like both an instant and an eternity.
“Buzz!”
A new, vast, and perfectly integrated aura with the Eternal Universe.
Suddenly erupted from Ji Qing’s clone!
The divine chains of rules that filled the sky were no longer violent but resembled obedient dragons, encircling his body and emitting joyful hums.
The suffocating sense of rejection instantly vanished, replaced by a sense of perfect compatibility, as if a fish was in water, acting as an extension of his will.
Success!
Under the joint witness of the three Ancestors of Dao and the Lord of Destiny.
Under the watchful eyes of many World Lords of the Eternal Universe.
Ji Qing’s Curse Clone, using its supreme Light of the Mind, withstood the immense pressure of the rules.
It completely merged with a portion of the Eternal Universe’s Authority!
From this moment on, the Eternal Universe had its second Lord of the Universe!
Its title, in accordance with its fundamental Great Dao and its clone’s characteristics.
Naturally appeared in the minds of all beings in the Eternal Universe who perceived this change—the Lord of Curse!
Ji Qing’s Curse Clone slowly opened its eyes.
In its eyes, anomalies of universe creation and destruction, and curse reincarnation seemed to flash and vanish.
It looked at the Lord of Destiny and gave a slight nod.
Then it looked towards the three Ancestors of Dao from the Immortal Realm, everything understood without words.
From this moment on, he possessed the Authority of two realms.
His main body was the Guixu Dao Ancestor of the Immortal Realm, and his clone was the Lord of Curse of the Eternal Universe!
Just as Ji Qing’s Curse Clone was fully stabilizing the power of the “Lord of Curse,” with the vast aura of the Eternal Universe’s Authority still lingering around him.
At this moment, an unexpected change occurred!
It was as if a certain boundary was broken, or as if scattered puzzle pieces had finally found their place.
An even deeper and more profound Dao Rhyme emanated uncontrollably from Ji Qing’s clone.
The Space Great Dao fluctuated, causing the surrounding void to become layered, as if containing all heavens.
The Space Great Dao fluctuated, causing the surrounding void to ripple layer upon layer, as if containing all heavens.
The Five Elements Great Dao revolved, evolving creation and destruction, laying the foundation for material existence.
The Saber Great Dao’s sharpness was subtly revealed, cutting through illusions, advancing fearlessly.
And the newly integrated Curse Great Dao exuded an eerie aura that caused all things to wither and destinies to be diverted!
Four perfectly harmonious, yet incomparably clear, Great Dao phenomena.
Like four pillars supporting the heavens, they encircled the newly born Lord of Curse.
Illuminating this Origin Sea until it was filled with resplendent light and booming Dao rhymes!
Four Great Daos!
At this moment, a storm of waves surged in the hearts of all the powerful beings present.
The hazy mist of destiny around the Lord of Destiny churned violently, revealing that his inner heart was far from calm.
For the first time, his eyes, which could see through the River of Destiny, displayed an undisguised emotion and shock.
The Lord of Destiny stared fixedly at the four Great Dao phenomena, as if trying to see through them.
What kind of existence was he? He understood what this meant almost instantly.
This Ji Qing, before even venturing into the Cosmic Sea for tempering, had already accumulated such terrifying Foundation within himself!
This Heavenly Talent, this Potential, far exceeded his previous estimations.
He realized that he seemed to have been thoroughly “schemed” against by those three old fellows from the Immortal Realm.
With a piece of Eternal Universe Authority, they had ultimately cultivated a Heavenly Talent with boundless Potential, even one that could be considered top-tier in the Cosmic Sea!
The three Ancestors of Dao from the Immortal Realm, though their reactions were more restrained than the Lord of Destiny’s.
Yet, upon closer inspection, the corner of Huoyuan Dao Ancestor’s mouth twitched upwards almost imperceptibly.
A flicker of “as expected” understanding flashed in Qingming Dao Ancestor’s eyes.
As for Hundao Dao Ancestor, he gently clapped his hands. Although he did not speak.
That long-anticipated yet undisguised excitement was still transmitted through their subtle fluctuations in aura.
Their schemes had succeeded!
Proving the Dao in a different universe, with Authority bestowed, truly allowed for complete resonance and sharing of Great Daos between the main body and clones!
Ji Qing now possessed four Great Daos.
He was truly just one step away from “Half-step Beginning Realm,” which required five Great Daos!
This meant that in the near future of the Immortal Realm.
There was a high possibility of a Half-step Beginning Realm Great Power of their own being born!
While the Star River Realm Lord and other Eternal Universe World Lords observing from afar were all stunned, almost unable to believe their eyes.
They felt the supreme oppressive force emanating from the four Great Daos, their minds reeling, unable to control themselves.
“Four… Four Great Daos! Equivalent to the three ancient Ancestors of Dao of the Immortal Realm!”
“Guixu Dao Ancestor… no, the Lord of Curse, he… he actually managed to possess the Great Daos of both the Immortal Realm and the Eternal Universe?”
“Possessing four Great Daos before even going to the Cosmic Sea! This… this is simply an unprecedented miracle!”
“Half-step Beginning Realm… isn’t that just around the corner?!”
Endless shock, envy, and even a trace of awe, rapidly grew in their hearts.
They had initially thought Ji Qing had merely obtained Authority through a clever stratagem with his clone.
Only now did they understand that he truly possessed the terrifying Strength and Potential to match that Authority!
Ji Qing and they were no longer on the same level.
The scene fell into an eerie silence, with only the phenomena of the four Great Daos silently proclaiming the rise of a newly emergent giant.
After a long pause, it was the Lord of Destiny who broke the silence first.
The mist of destiny swirling around him calmed down, and he let out a hum of unclear meaning. His gaze swept meaningfully over the three Ancestors of Dao from the Immortal Realm, but he did not make a move.
With things having reached this point, it was a fait accompli. Ji Qing was now the rightful “Lord of Curse” of the Eternal Universe, and the stronger he became, the more beneficial it was, in a sense, for the Eternal Universe.
It was just that this benefit, “force-fed” to him, left him feeling somewhat displeased.
“Congratulations to the Lord of Curse on successfully proving the Dao, taking charge of the Eternal Universe’s Authority, and furthermore… possessing four Great Daos, with a boundless future.”
The Lord of Destiny’s voice returned to its usual indifference.
However, the phrase “possessing four Great Daos” clearly conveyed that he had seen through everything and accepted this outcome.
The three Ancestors of Dao from the Immortal Realm exchanged smiles upon hearing this.
Huoyuan Dao Ancestor spoke loudly, his tone filled with undisguised praise and anticipation: “Congratulations, Fellow Daoist Ji! With the Authority of two Great Universes in hand, your Four Dao Foundation is complete! Your Great Dao is promising, and the Beginning Realm is within sight!”
“This is the fortune of our Immortal Realm, and also the steadfastness of the alliance between us and the Eternal Universe!”
These words were both congratulations and a message for the Lord of Destiny, emphasizing the benefits of this action for both parties.
Star River Realm Lord and the others also reacted at this moment.
Suppressing the storm in their hearts, they stepped forward one after another, their attitudes even more respectful than before.
“Congratulations to the Lord of Curse, whose might pervades the universe, and whose Great Dao is supreme!”
“The Lord of Curse possessing four Great Daos is unprecedented in all of history and is truly the supreme glory of our Eternal Universe!”
“Congratulations to the Lord of Curse, your path to Half-step Beginning Realm, and even true Beginning Realm Dao, will surely be unimpeded!”
Their congratulations were filled with reverence for the absolute powerhouse.
And with the relief and anticipation of being able to attach themselves to such a powerful being in the future.
Ji Qing felt the surging Power of the Great Dao from the four paths and the Authority of the two universes within him, his heart also stirred.
He faced the Lord of Destiny and the three Ancestors of Dao, cupping his hands solemnly: “Many thanks to the Lord of Destiny for your fulfillment, and thanks to the three Ancestors of Dao for your protection. Since this body is the Lord of the Eternal Universe, I shall naturally share the governance of this realm with the Lord of Destiny, and also contribute my humble efforts to the alliance between the Immortal Realm and the Eternal Universe.”
The three Ancestors of Dao and the Lord of Destiny exchanged glances upon hearing this, and smiles also appeared on their faces.
The Cosmic Sea was fraught with peril, and no one knew where they would ultimately end up?
But with Ji Qing, if he were to advance further in the Cosmic Sea in the future, they might also benefit, and their Great Dao path could become smoother.
The Proving of the Dao was complete.
Ji Qing, as per their prior agreement, arranged for the Lord of Curse clone to reside in the Eternal Universe.
To jointly govern this vast Heaven and Earth with the Lord of Destiny, and at the same time serve as the most solid ally and vanguard of the Immortal Realm.
His main body, along with the three Ancestors of Dao, would return to the Immortal Realm.
There were some matters he needed to properly attend to before leaving.
He sought out Baoyue Zhenren, Yunmeng Goddess, and his sister Ji Yao.
These three were his deepest bonds in the Immortal Realm.
Facing them, Ji Qing spoke in a gentle yet solemn tone: “I am about to accompany the three Ancestors of Dao to Tian Wen City in the deep Cosmic Sea. My return date is uncertain. Matters of the Immortal Realm will be handled by the Heavenly Court, so you may cultivate with peace of mind. If you encounter truly intractable issues, or face danger, you may use this Mark to communicate with my clone in the Eternal Universe—the Lord of Curse. He will ensure your safety.”
Saying this, he flicked his finger.
Three faint streams of light, imbued with the aura of Authority from two universes and the consciousness fluctuations of the Lord of Curse.
Separately entered the foreheads of the three women, forming a hidden mark.
This was not only a token but also a promise and a shelter.
Baoyue Zhenren’s gaze shifted.
She had already understood Ji Qing’s current level and the responsibilities he bore. She laughed freely, “The Cosmic Sea is vast and perfect for you to roam. Go with peace of mind. With us in the Immortal Realm and your clone in the Eternal Universe, nothing will go wrong.”
In her words, she had already distinguished between Ji Qing’s main body and clone, appearing remarkably clear-sighted.
Yunmeng Goddess curtsied gracefully, her eyes showing concern and firm resolve, “Go forward with peace of mind, Fellow Daoist. We will diligently cultivate and not disappoint your expectations.”
She deeply understood that only by becoming powerful herself could she avoid becoming a burden.
Ji Yao, however, pulled on Ji Qing’s sleeve. Although reluctant, she appeared more mature, “Brother, the Cosmic Sea is dangerous, you must be careful. We will take care of ourselves, and when you return, we will absolutely not disappoint you!”
With everything arranged, Ji Qing’s heart was free of worries.
A year’s time passed in the blink of an eye.
On this day, outside the Immortal Realm’s barrier, in the Cosmic Sea where chaotic energy churned.
Four figures stood tall, namely Ji Qing and the three Ancestors of Dao from the Immortal Realm.
“Let’s go.”
As Huoyuan Dao Ancestor’s voice fell, Dao Rhyme flowed around the four figures.
They instantly transformed into four brilliant streams of light, tearing through the chaos.
And plunged into the boundless, vast, cold, and desolate depths of the Cosmic Sea.
The Cosmic Sea was as vast as to bring despair.
The Space Rules here were extremely stable, far from the ease with which they could be torn and traversed within a universe.
Even with Ji Qing clearing the path using the Space Great Dao.
Augmented by the Great Power of the three Ancestors of Dao, the distance of each space jump was extremely limited and consumed immense energy.
More often, they relied on their powerful Great Dao cultivation.
To engage in what seemed like an endless, long flight in the dead silence of the void.
As far as the eye could see, there was mostly eternal darkness and scattered, distant specks of cosmic halos like dust.
Violent cosmic sea currents, hidden spatial rifts, and occasional passing strange energy storms.
They even occasionally encountered Cosmic Giant Beasts from afar…
The journey through the Cosmic Sea was not entirely smooth sailing.
If not for the three experienced Ancestors of Dao, relying solely on Ji Qing to navigate the Cosmic Sea would likely have been fraught with peril.
Ten years!
A full ten years passed in the blink of an eye!
They crossed countless desolate star fields, avoided several natural perilous zones that even Dao Ancestors felt a sense of dread from, and finally, on this day, the scene ahead suddenly opened up.
The Cosmic Sea currents became gentle, and a unique Dao Rhyme, ancient, grand, and all-encompassing, began to permeate the void.
Hundao Dao Ancestor’s usually placid face now revealed a hint of relief, and he pointed forward: “Look, Tian Wen City has arrived!”
Ji Qing followed his gaze, and even with his current state of mind and knowledge, his heart trembled, and he was lost for words.
In the center of the boundless void, a giant city, indescribable in its grandeur, floated quietly.
It was not built upon any continent.
Instead, it was formed by countless interwoven divine chains of rules and converged with the radiant light of myriad Great Daos, directly coalescing in the void of the Cosmic Sea!
The city walls were unfathomably high, spanning trillions of miles.
Extending to the horizon, the entire structure seemed to be forged from chaotic jade.
Or perhaps like countless shattered universe fragments and laws compressed and melted into one.
It exuded a majestic aura of eternal indestructibility and immunity to all laws.
Above the giant city, phantom images of innate divine beasts such as True Dragons and Divine Phoenixes circled and cried out.
Golden lotus flowers of law continuously emerged and extinguished, scattering Dao Rhyme light rain that nurtured all things.
And vast rivers of stars flowed around the giant city like colorful ribbons.
Each “star” in them, upon closer inspection.
Was actually a floating immortal mountain, a divine hall, or the cave dwelling of a powerful being!
Innumerable beings with varying strengths, but at least at the Cosmic Level,
Appeared like dense stars throughout the city.
Streams of light, like a hundred rivers flowing into the sea, came from all directions of the Cosmic Sea and entered this ancient giant city.
Above the city gate, instead of a mortal plaque.
Two massive ancient divine characters, formed naturally from the most primordial “Great Dao,”—Tian Wen!
The two characters shone brilliantly, as if containing all the mysteries of the Cosmic Sea.
Merely gazing at them evoked an urge to confront the Dao Origin and explore the ultimate of the universe.
An invisible, vast, and boundless majesty enveloped the surroundings.
Causing any being who arrived here to involuntarily feel a sense of awe.
“This is Tian Wen City…”
Qingming Dao Ancestor’s voice carried a trace of emotion.
“The place where the myriad intelligent civilizations of the Cosmic Sea converge, the Holy Land where countless powerful beings pursue the ultimate of the Great Dao. Every time I see it, I feel as insignificant as dust.”
Huoyuan Dao Ancestor looked at Ji Qing, who was still in shock beside him, and said solemnly, “Fellow Daoist Ji, welcome to… the true Holy Land of cultivation!”
Ji Qing took a deep breath of the void air, which was thick with rich Dao Rhyme, suppressed the turmoil in his heart, and his gaze became firm and burning.
Ten years of arduous journey, finally reaching the other shore.
Passing through the magnificent city gate, which seemed to be directly condensed from Great Dao rules, Ji Qing officially stepped into Tian Wen City.
The scene within the city was different from the impression from the outside.
The aura of the Great Dao was even more concentrated, almost solidifying into substance.
The streets were incredibly wide, paved with a kind of divine cyan-gold stone, shimmering with a warm luster.
Sufficient to withstand the passage and energy fluctuations of Cosmic Level powerhouses.
The architectural styles on both sides were diverse.
There were ethereal Immortal Palaces, majestic Divine Towers, and even technologically advanced metal fortresses.
There were even strange residences composed entirely of elements or spirit bodies, showcasing the diversity of Cosmic Sea civilizations.
Beings of various forms, with different strengths, came and went.
But even the weakest exuded an immortal Dao Rhyme, capable of being a overlord in a universe.
The three Ancestors of Dao were clearly very familiar with Tian Wen City.
They led Ji Qing through bustling and tranquil districts, finally arriving at an area enveloped in a hazy immortal light.
Within the area, pavilions and towers abounded, with flowing springs and cascading waterfalls, and immortal cranes soaring.
A rich Immortal Realm aura permeated the air, forming a stark contrast to the chaotic vastness outside the city.
An ancient stone tablet stood in front, inscribed with four Dao characters—Xianyuan Dao Field.
“This place is where our foundation in Tian Wen City is located.”
Hundao Dao Ancestor’s tone carried a hint of imperceptible exhaustion and pride.
“Upon arriving in the Cosmic Sea, we were like rootless duckweed, facing hardships at every step.”
“After countless years of struggle, we finally accumulated this Foundation.”
“This Dao Field was established to provide a place for fellow Daoists in the Immortal Realm to shelter from the wind and rain and cultivate with peace of mind.”
Ji Qing’s respect deepened.
He understood that in Tian Wen City, where cultivators were as numerous as trees and resources were fiercely competed for.
What immense effort did the three Great Dao Ancestors put into creating and maintaining such a pure land?
Now, most of the early-arriving Immortal Emperors in the Immortal Realm are temporarily residing here.
Only when one’s own strength is sufficient, or when a new opportunity arises, will they choose to move out and venture forth alone.
After settling down, Ji Qing did not rush to explore Tian Wen City or search for Dao Techniques; he remembered an old acquaintance—the Heavenly Emperor.
Ji Qing asked someone for directions and soon found the Heavenly Emperor’s residence.
It was in a rather remote and humble Cave Dwelling on the edge of the Dao Field.
The Immortal Qi was thin, contrasting with the dense Immortal Qi in the core area of the Dao Field.
Inside the Cave Dwelling, the furnishings were simple, yet meticulously tidy.
The Heavenly Emperor sat upright on a Stone Platform, his spine still as straight as a pine tree.
However, a layer of lingering fatigue was cast over his brow, and a hint of unwillingness lay deep in his eyes.
The aura around him was not as grand and vast as it was in the Immortal Realm, but it remained condensed, exuding a resilience forged through adversity.
The former Lord of the Heavenly Court of the Thirty-fourth Heaven, even with a lower status in Tian Wen City than before, still possessed a dignity and pride that had not been completely worn away.
Sensing a visitor, the Heavenly Emperor slowly opened his eyes, his gaze like lightning. Upon seeing it was Ji Qing, that sharpness instantly turned into a complex shock, which he then concealed.
“Heaven Patrol Heavenly King, Ji Qing?”
His voice was steady, carrying a habitual authority from years of being in a high position, but it was also more somber than when he was in the Immortal Realm.
“You have also become an Immortal Emperor and have come to Tian Wen City?”
He stood up, his movements still imbued with his inherent grace, but as his sleeves fluttered, signs of wear were subtly visible.
His gaze swept over Ji Qing, his expression somewhat complex.
Back then, Ji Qing was merely a Heavenly King in the Heavenly Court.
Who would have thought that so much time had passed?
He had actually become an Immortal Emperor and even arrived at Tian Wen City.
The Heavenly Emperor sighed, “This Tian Wen City is not the Immortal Realm. It is vast and boundless, but also… starkly realistic. Since you are new here, if you have any difficulties, you can come to me. However…”
He paused, a self-mocking smile tinged with pride appearing at the corner of his lips, “The assistance I can offer now is likely extremely limited, far from what it was in the past.”
He did not complain or lament, but that sentence, “far from what it was in the past.”
And his still-straight Spine, despite residing in this humble Cave Dwelling, fully conveyed his fallen heroic state.
He was still that Heavenly Emperor, merely trapped on a shallow shoal for the moment, a dragon in shallow waters.
Ji Qing could sense the unassailable dignity in the other’s words.
He nodded calmly, without showing any pity or disdain: “I came specifically to visit an old acquaintance and reminisce.”
The Heavenly Emperor looked at Ji Qing deeply.
Seeing Ji Qing’s calm demeanor and unfathomable depth, his heart stirred slightly, but he asked no further questions.
He simply gestured with his hand: “Sit.”
The two sat opposite each other, and the Heavenly Emperor brought out some cherished Immortal Tea. Although not of the highest quality, its fragrance was still delicate and pleasing.
He spoke of his observations in Tian Wen City in a calm tone, his judgment still sharp.
Clearly, even in his difficult circumstances, he had never stopped observing and thinking, still aiming to achieve something in Tian Wen City.
However, Tian Wen City comprised the top powerhouses from various universes in the Cosmic Sea; how could one easily make a name for himself here?
Even the three Great Dao Ancestors had only achieved their current Foundation in Tian Wen City through countless years of Accumulation.
Three days later.
In the main Great Hall of the Xianyuan Dao Field, Immortal light shone brilliantly, and Dao sounds echoed.
The three Great Dao Ancestors summoned almost all the Immortal Emperors in the Dao Field to hold a welcome ceremony for Ji Qing.
The Heavenly Emperor stood among the crowd, not in a prominent position. His posture was upright, and he calmly watched the three Dao Ancestors on the high platform.
In the depths of his gaze, there was reverence, but also a restrained defiance and longing.
Huoyuan Dao Ancestor stepped forward, his voice resounding through the Great Hall: “We have gathered everyone here today, firstly to convene, and secondly to introduce a new fellow Daoist to all of you, who is also the fourth Dao Ancestor of our Xianyuan Dao Field!”
Amidst the astonished gazes of the crowd, Ji Qing slowly ascended the stage, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the three Great Dao Ancestors.
Huoyuan Dao Ancestor announced loudly: “Fellow Daoist Ji Qing has proven the Dao and achieved success in the Immortal Realm, merging Authority. He is the fourth Dao Ancestor of our Immortal Realm! Effective immediately, in Xianyuan Dao Field, Fellow Daoist Ji Qing and the three of us share equal status!”
“Proved the Dao to become a Dao Ancestor?!”
An uproar instantly erupted from below the stage, with countless shocked and incredulous gazes focusing on Ji Qing.
The Heavenly Emperor’s body trembled violently, his pupils contracting sharply. The calm expression he had maintained finally showed cracks!
He stared fixedly at Ji Qing on the stage.
The figure who had sat and debated with him, whose aura was as deep as the sea, clashed violently with his memory of that rising prodigy.
After the shock, a very complex Emotion surged into his heart.
It was not cowardice, but an ineffable sense of suffocation and bitterness, like a massive stone pressing down on his chest.
He recalled his meeting with Ji Qing three days prior and his words about “limited assistance.” Thinking back now, they seemed so… laughable.
Even if it was Ji Qing’s first time in Tian Wen City, as a Dao Ancestor, he was naturally different from ordinary Immortal Emperors.
In contrast, he himself was still struggling in the mud.
A sense of immense disparity violently impacted his mind.
But he was, after all, the Heavenly Emperor; how firm was his will?
After that momentary loss of composure, he quickly suppressed all outward Emotions.
His gaze merely became deeper, like a bottomless pool.
He slowly exhaled a breath of stale air, forcefully suppressing the turbulence churning within his heart.
When he looked at Ji Qing again, there was a newfound respect and an unidentifiable meaning in his eyes.
There was shock, emotion, perhaps a trace of unwilling envy at being left so far behind, and… a flicker of rekindled desire.
When he was the Lord of the Heavenly Court, he had somewhat favored Ji Qing.
Now that Ji Qing had become a Dao Ancestor, wouldn’t this be his Opportunity?
For a moment, the Heavenly Emperor’s heart surged, his mind filled with countless thoughts.
