Chapter 2207: Return to the Heart Lake

Qin Sang found himself in a realm of silver-white light, surrounded by a dense downpour of lightning.

The lightning bolts were incredibly fine, as delicate as raindrops, seeming as if they would dissipate with a mere breath of wind. Qin Sang felt waves of coolness, utterly devoid of the formidable power typically associated with lightning.

This either meant the lightning spell was unique, or the caster had achieved absolute mastery, controlling it with unparalleled precision.

The lightning intensified, filling the entire foggy expanse.

Qin Sang sensed something and looked up. He saw ripples forming amidst the lightning, and within these layered undulations, a faint azure phantom slowly materialized.

The moment the phantom appeared, it drew in all the surrounding lightning. Its outline quickly sharpened, revealing the distinct form of a dragon's head.

After the head, the dragon's body gradually took shape, eventually transforming into a lifelike azure dragon, gliding through the clouds.

This azure dragon was less than a zhang long, lacking the majestic presence of a true legendary dragon. Instead, it resembled a charming, immature young dragon.

It blinked, fixing its gaze on the Thunder Beast Guardian beside Qin Sang. With a flick of its tail, it swooped down.

Although the small azure dragon didn't seem to possess immense power, Qin Sang dared not be careless and promptly activated the Thunder Beast Guardian.

The Thunder Beast Guardian stepped forward, its left eye blazing with light, emitting a silver halo from the Huoshan Orb.

As the silver halo rapidly expanded to envelop the void, the small azure dragon plunged in. Its body swayed gently, causing the silver light to ripple violently and the Thunder Beast Guardian to shudder.

Qin Sang's expression changed. Just as he prepared to fully resist the impact, the small azure dragon suddenly stiffened and froze in place. The force of the impact vanished as well, a clear sign that the individual behind it had intervened.

Seeing this, Qin Sang felt a slight relief. This was precisely why he had sought the assistance of the Saint-realm expert; the individual's complete control over the lightning spell meant it would no longer impact the Huoshan Orb, thereby preventing any sudden backlash. He could now focus entirely on the sealing process.

The small azure dragon remained motionless, like a statue, its scales shimmering.

After a moment's thought, Qin Sang used the Thunder Beast Guardian to draw the Huoshan Orb's halo inward. As the small azure dragon remained utterly still, allowing the Guardian to impose layer after layer of 'shackles,' Qin Sang's confidence steadily grew.

Innumerable lightning bolts encircled the small azure dragon, completely enveloping it like countless chains, binding its entire body.

As Qin Sang's movements accelerated, the small azure dragon suddenly shuddered, then was pulled by these 'chains' deeper into the halo. The deepest part of the halo was precisely the Thunder Beast Guardian's left eye!

The halo continued to contract, and the small azure dragon slowly descended. As it did, its body diminished in size, eventually entering the Thunder Beast Guardian's eye socket.

The silver light receded, leaving the Thunder Beast Guardian's left eye brilliantly captivating. Within its pupil, the faint outline of an azure dragon was visible.

The seal was not yet truly complete. Qin Sang meticulously examined it, then stated gravely, "Senior, you may now withdraw your true essence."

The next moment, Qin Sang let out a muffled groan as a truly terrifying surge of thunderous power erupted from within the Thunder Beast Guardian, crashing over him.

At that moment, the azure dragon's shadow awakened. Its previously gentle gaze instantly turned fierce and malevolent. It raised its head high, seemingly ready to unleash its suppressed rage.

The Thunder Beast Guardian's entire body transformed into lightning, its thunder armor becoming ethereal. An endless torrent of lightning surged towards its left eye.

Qin Sang exerted himself to the utmost, pouring his spiritual consciousness and true essence into the Thunder Beast Guardian. He forcefully subdued the thunderous power, then, in a single surge, fully suppressed the azure dragon's shadow.

The azure dragon's shadow thrashed its head, displaying agitation and reluctance, but its movements gradually diminished until it became still.

"Phew..." Qin Sang exhaled.

Qin Sang exhaled a long breath, feeling as though he had just wrestled with a formidable creature. Thankfully, he had emerged victorious.

The lightning around the Thunder Beast Guardian dissipated, its aura calmed, and it returned to Qin Sang's side, standing still.

Qin Sang looked at the Thunder Beast Guardian's left eye. Within its pupil, he could still faintly discern the small azure dragon's shadow, but it emitted no special fluctuations that would alert an opponent. His adversaries could surely not imagine how terrifying this azure dragon would become once unsealed.

By now, Qin Sang fully understood the power of this lightning spell and was greatly satisfied. With it, his safety would be significantly enhanced.

"Thank you, Senior, for bestowing this spell!"

Qin Sang bowed, saluting the heavens.

The other party simply stated, "You may leave now."

"This junior respectfully takes his leave!"

As Qin Sang exited the sea of clouds and pondered whether to pay his respects to Hong Tian, Hong Tian's voice transmission echoed in his ear, summoning him.

He met Hong Tian in Cloud Mountain.

Hong Tian spoke directly, "Those Taoist sect successors who entered with you have also been chosen. Do they possess any more knowledge than you?"

Qin Sang considered, "I don't think so. When we first entered the Heart Lake, we met and collaborated there once. At that time, everyone was eager to explore, and their behavior wasn't particularly composed."

After a pause, Qin Sang countered, "Has Lord confirmed that location?"

"I am absolutely certain!"

Hong Tian nodded.

Qin Sang, understanding Hong Tian's unspoken question, explained, "That place was once a battleground for the various Taoist factions. However, our sect wouldn't disclose the full details to us juniors. We only know that it holds numerous opportunities, and each time the factions would engage in a major conflict there. We don't understand the complete situation."

Hong Tian hummed in acknowledgment, adding, "From now on, remember to pay close attention to their actions."

"Understood," Qin Sang replied. "Has that secret realm not yet been destroyed?"

"The changes are not yet complete, and nothing is certain," Hong Tian explained, pausing. "If it ultimately retains an intricate connection to the original secret realm, you may have an opportunity to gain an advantage. The upcoming contest between the Water and Sky factions will also unfold there. Go and make your preparations."

"Yes!"

Qin Sang flew out of Cloud Mountain and returned to the battlefield, where he found everyone resisting a beast tide.

The battlefield situation had vastly changed. There was no longer a need for anyone to risk charging; the spiritual array alone could withstand the beast tide's assault. Everyone safely remained within the formation, slaying monsters from afar.

Of course, there were exceptions, like Yuan Ren, who couldn't bear the solitude.

Wave after wave of divine techniques mercilessly culled the beast horde. Qin Sang informed Liu Li and the others of the news, then calmly awaited the opportune moment.

The spiritual array continued to evolve, though its intricacies were now beyond everyone's comprehension. They could only move with the formation, swept along by its flow. This change was undoubtedly for the better, making resistance against the beast tide progressively easier.

Several days later, several streaks of light suddenly descended from the sky. Two of them flew towards Qin Sang and his group: Hong Yue and Ji Xia.

"Greetings, True Immortal Qin," Hong Yue said, cupping his hands. A smile played on his face, a stark contrast to his previous arrogance.

"From now on, we hope True Immortal Qin will look out for us."

"I wouldn't dare! Fellow Daoist Hong Yue, you speak too highly of me!"

Qin Sang's heart stirred. It seemed Hong Yue would also accompany them; ultimately, Hong Yue was Hong Tian's most trusted confidant.

Ji Xia landed beside Patriarch Yuan Xiang, whispered a few words to him, then hopped onto Qin Sang's shoulder. "I originally recommended you to the old patriarch, but unfortunately, you've already been chosen by Hong Tian."

Qin Sang asked, "Did that Senior choose Patriarch Yuan Xiang?"

"Not necessarily," Ji Xia replied with a slight shake of her head. "It depends on their performance from now on."

Qin Sang understood. He had previously wondered why no Saint-realm expert had chosen Patriarch Yuan Xiang, as among all the various races' cultivators present, likely no one would dare claim a sure victory over him.

It appeared these Saint-realm experts were exceedingly cautious, intending to consider candidates only after the contest between the Water and Sky factions concluded.

Just then, a majestic voice boomed from high above.

"Attention, everyone..."

The voice captured everyone's attention, and they knew it belonged to a Saint-realm expert.

"Though the sacred land has undergone changes, the trials must proceed..."

The Saint-realm expert, in a calm tone, explained the situation to the assembled crowd. His account was largely similar to what Hong Tian had previously shared.

Everyone listened in silence. Upon learning the truth, a ripple of excitement and concern spread through the crowd. Some rejoiced, having believed the trial was lost, only to find a turning point. Others worried, as the Saint-realm expert made no secret that the upcoming trials would be even more perilous than before.

Naturally, one could opt out of the trials and remain to resist the beast tide, which would be safer under the protection of these Saint-realm experts, but it would also mean forfeiting any chance at treasures.

The Saint-realm expert granted everyone time to consider. Ultimately, the vast majority of cultivators chose to participate; only a small number, those who felt their strength was insufficient or who had sustained severe injuries, opted to stay behind.

Fiery streaks descended from the sky.

Qin Sang raised his hand and caught one; it felt scorching hot in his palm. It was a dark red iron token.

"Wear these on your persons; they will help you maintain clarity."

At the Saint-realm expert's command, everyone quickly exited the grand array, gathered at the edge of the Heart Lake, and then surged toward its depths.

Their destination was clear: the island housing the Coiling Dragon Cave. Even if dangers arose along the way, such a large contingent of top experts could easily overcome them.

High above.

Hong Tian slowly opened his eyes, gazing down until the streaks of light vanished into the dense mist, as if shrouded in shadow, and his perception gradually blurred.

Suddenly, his expression subtly shifted. He raised his head, his gaze profound, and stared beyond the heavens. There, shimmering light spread like a vast, dazzling sea—a sight of unparalleled beauty.

The shimmering light suddenly surged into colossal waves, within which a strange shadow seemed to tumble and churn.

"They are coming; everyone, be careful!" Hong Tian warned via voice transmission, then composed himself, focusing entirely on the impending impact.

Qin Sang and the others remained oblivious. They traveled continuously, crossing the Heart Lake and arriving smoothly at the island.

"This is the place!"

The leading female cultivator of the Merfolk race raised her graceful arm, signaling everyone to halt.

This woman, a queen of the Merfolk race, was said to be a trusted confidante of the Merfolk Empress. With the Empress currently absent, she naturally assumed leadership of the Water Faction cultivators.

On the other side, the Sky Faction was led by the Winged Human King's prince. Not long ago, the long-absent Winged Human experts suddenly reappeared, making it easy to deduce that the Winged Human King had likely broken through to the Saint realm.

This sacred land trial broke previous conventions, as the Water and Sky factions were no longer each other's primary opponents. However, years of rivalry made it difficult for the two sides to let go of their animosity. They remained clearly divided, mutually wary.

Qin Sang noticed that Zhan Yan was standing beside the Merfolk Queen, indicating he had apparently been recruited.

The Merfolk Queen looked around, observed for a moment, and exchanged words with Zhan Yan, then led the Water Faction cultivators onto the island. The Sky Faction, not to be outdone, also ascended the island.

"True Immortal Qin," Qin Sang heard a familiar voice transmission, from Young Master.

"Has the Immortal Child already been eliminated by you, True Immortal?"

Qin Sang's safe return sparked various speculations, particularly from Young Master and Emperor Si, who had been closely observing his every move.

"Fellow Daoist, why do you say that? This humble Daoist merely escaped by sheer luck, and I must thank you for not colluding with him to ambush and kill me," Qin Sang flatly denied.

Young Master fell silent. This was precisely the dilemma he and Emperor Si faced.

Just moments ago, the Saint-realm expert revealed that their upcoming opponents would be the disciples of the ancestors who had emerged from the Saint realm. However, those opponents' ancestors were also their own, which meant they would be fighting against their own revered forebears.

Even if they acquired treasures, would they live long enough to enjoy them?

To this, the Saint-realm expert explained that the true objective of those individuals was to secure benefits for themselves, not genuinely to act on behalf of their ancestors. Thus, there was no need to fear incurring their ancestors' wrath later on.

Everyone was skeptical yet unwilling to simply abandon this opportunity. Many adopted a wait-and-see approach.

Both Emperor Si and Young Master acknowledged Qin Sang's strength and intended to renew their previous alliance. However, if the Immortal Child was still alive, it would present a difficult dilemma.

Qin Sang waited for a moment but received no response from Young Master, realizing they had abandoned the idea of allying with him. While more allies were always beneficial, Qin Sang also didn't want others to overly estimate his strength. Since there were no witnesses at the time, he would never admit to it regardless.

Furthermore, he already had a good number of allies: Patriarch Yuan Xiang, Yuan Ren, and Ji Xia were all top experts.

At this thought, Qin Sang subtly glanced to the other side. Yuan Jian certainly had nerve; he dared to follow them in, seemingly unafraid of Qin Sang's retribution.

Yuan Jian had been stirring up trouble behind the scenes. If the opportunity arose, Qin Sang would show him no mercy; it would be best to keep him here forever!

However…

Qin Sang noticed that Yuan Jian had consistently, perhaps even unconsciously, gravitated towards the Winged Human race. Did he have some hidden advantage?

The group flew over mountains and ridges, eventually arriving before the secret realm.

It was unclear if Zhan Yan was leading the way, coincidentally guiding them to the gathering place of the ancestor disciples.

Upon returning to this place, Qin Sang and Liu Li both looked towards the secret realm. They saw that it was shrouded in gloom, the shimmering light far thinner than before, on the verge of vanishing. However, the storm had not abated; instead, it grew increasingly fierce, with relentless winds howling and an astonishing intensity.

At this moment, the ancestor disciples of the various races were gathered before the secret realm, waiting only for the shimmering light to vanish before entering.

Sensing the fluctuations behind them, they turned to see countless streaks of light approaching, and their expressions all shifted.

Everyone halted simultaneously, facing each other from a distance.

"What are you commoners doing here? Go back at once! Can you bear the responsibility if you ruin our ancestors' great undertaking?" an ancestor disciple from the various races angrily bellowed.

These words instantly darkened the expressions of some, as differing origins seemed to create a chasm between the two factions, even among those of the same race.

"True Immortal Qin, we meet again."

Qin Sang heard a familiar voice transmission, followed the sound, and spotted Yu Zhen in the crowd.

Yu Zhen nodded, signaling, "If an opportunity arises later, True Immortal will see my sincerity."