Chapter 259-260 (Patreon)

259. Immortal Mansion Task

With a soft swish, Lin Fei had barely stepped into the grand hall when he immediately became the focus of many piercing gazes. Seated in prominent positions were two martial artists. One was a face Lin Fei recognized well — it was none other than the Chief of the Law Enforcement Hall, the esteemed Martial Sovereign, Wind Sovereign. Beside Wind Sovereign sat another martial artist exuding an aura of authority. Without needing an introduction, Lin Fei deduced that this must be the leader of the Ancient Origin Sect, another of the famed Martial Sovereigns.

Within the hall, other figures, though only martial saints, were key figures in the Ancient Origin Sect: the Chief of the Transmission Hall, the Master of the Treasure Exchange Pavilion, and the Chief of the Task Hall, among others. While these martial artists weren't Martial Sovereigns, each had harnessed the power of at least two flowers, marking them as formidable forces and core members of the Ancient Origin Sect. Besides the reclusive and meditating elder figures of the sect, almost every influential individual who had a say in the sect's affairs was present. The scale of the gathering indicated the gravity of the situation.

"Greetings, Sect leader, Wind Sovereign, and esteemed elders," Lin Fei offered a modest salute towards the Sect leader and Wind Sovereign. For the others, he simply gave a nod of acknowledgment. As the foremost elder of the Law Enforcement Hall and next only to the Sovereigns, his standing was second to none. At most, some might have had slightly more authority, but in terms of status, Lin Fei was undoubtedly at the core of the Ancient Origin Sect.

"Elder Lin, please take a seat," the Sect leader gestured after observing Lin Fei, and a chair materialized beside him. Without any pretense, Lin Fei settled down. Assessing his seating, he realized he had been given a prominent position. In certain contexts, seating arrangements symbolized one's stature and the Sect leader's gesture acknowledged Lin Fei's competence and standing.

"Elder Lin," began the Sect leader, "we've summoned you today for a consultation. Regarding the last matter you reported, concerning the appearance of a Foundation Establishment cultivator from Taiyi Dao Palace on the Fairy Mist Island. After you brought this to our attention, our sect took it very seriously and commenced an investigation into Taiyi Dao Palace. As it turns out, there was indeed a matter of concern.

Just a few days ago, Taiyi Dao Palace proactively contacted the Ancient Origin Sect, Profound Light Cave Heaven, and Red Hades Mansion, the three major forces. They admitted that they couldn't keep their secret any longer and revealed their reason for heading to Fairy Mist Island. In that maritime region lies an immortal mansion left behind by a Nascent Soul Great Being. They've even ascertained its approximate location. All three factions have dispatched Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core True Persons to explore that maritime region along with the cultivators from Taiyi Dao Palace."

"It is indeed an Immortal Mansion," the Sect leader continued. "But this mansion is no ordinary place. It is protected by a powerful array. Even for us, the Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core True Persons, it's challenging to break through.

Yet, since the mansion is without a master, we managed to work together and create a small entrance in the protective array, just enough for someone to enter. However, this entrance only allows Martial Saints or Foundation Establishment cultivators to enter. If a Golden Core True Person or Martial Sovereign attempts to go in, the array would exert a powerful suppressive force. If that happens, the mansion will disappear and become untraceable.

After discussions with Taiyi Dao Palace, our three factions decided to deploy our Golden Core True Persons and Martial Sovereigns to suppress the mansion's array for one month. This will give our Foundation Establishment True Persons and Martial Saints the opportunity to enter the mansion and search for treasures.

While the three factions will enter and exit together, we can't overlook the allure of the treasures inside an Immortal Mansion left by a Nascent Soul Great Being. Disputes might arise over the ownership of these treasures, especially with members of Taiyi Dao Palace present.

All factions will undoubtedly send their top-tier Foundation Establishment cultivators into the mansion. Although the Ancient Origin Sect is a martial arts sect, the treasures left behind by a Nascent Soul Great Being can be highly beneficial to martial artists too. Hence, we have decided that Elder Lin will lead our sect's elite Martial Saints to the mansion to secure these treasures.

Elder Lin, what are your thoughts?"

Everyone's eyes were now on Lin Fei. He took a moment to digest everything that the Sect leader had conveyed.

An Immortal Mansion! Beneath the waters of the Fairy Mist Island was a mansion left behind by a Nascent Soul Great Being. Even though Lin Fei was a martial artist, he was well aware of the cultivation system of the Immortal Dao. A Golden Core cultivator could live for a thousand years and was regarded as an ancestral figure. As for Nascent Soul, they could live for ten thousand years, with vast powers enough to destroy worlds. Becoming a Nascent Soul meant truly becoming a Great Being.

On the vast ancient continent, Nascent Soul powerhouses could roam freely and dominate. An Immortal Mansion left behind by such power could cause countless factions to become desperate for possession. It was now clear why Taiyi Dao Palace had secretly attempted to take control of Fairy Mist Island. They probably wanted to monopolize the mansion. Fortunately, their plans were disrupted by Lin Fei, and not only did they fail to gain control over the island, but their covert actions were also exposed. Knowing they couldn't keep it a secret, they openly communicated with the three major factions, proposing a joint exploration of the mansion.

The mansion's protective array, even without the presence of a Nascent Soul Great Being, remained formidable. It was not something that Golden Core True Persons or Martial Sovereigns could break easily.

The four sects joined forces and they barely managed to breach a tiny opening in the formation. It only allowed those at the Foundation Establishment level to enter the Immortal Mansion. The four forces, naturally, coveted the treasures within the mansion. Thus, they would send their Foundation True Persons and Martial Saints into the mansion.

Lin Fei weighed his options. With the might of a Nascent Soul cultivator, even if not a martial arts great being, the paths of martial arts and immortality converged. The remnants might very well benefit martial artists. Under no circumstance could the Ancient Origin Sect remain indifferent to this mansion.

As for the risks? Lin Fei had considered them, venturing into the mansion was undoubtedly perilous. But with his current prowess. Lin Fei was confident. Protecting himself shouldn't prove challenging.

Thus, Lin Fei had made up his mind.

"Sect Leader, Wind Sovereign, I wish to journey to the Immortal Mansion. However, I have a minor request."

Lin Fei stated, neither humble nor arrogant, in a calm tone.

"Elder Lin, state your request."

"To enter the mansion, only I should go. The other Martial Saints, I fear they would only be burdens to me. Therefore, for this venture into the mansion, I wish to go alone."

As Lin Fei's words settled, the crowd was abuzz. Especially the Martial Saints present in the grand hall. One by one, their expressions darkened. Their eyes fixed on Lin Fei, revealing their displeasure. What did Lin Fei mean by that statement? Was he looking down on all the Martial Saints of the Ancient Origin Sect? Even if they were the elders and leaders who stood at the pinnacle of Martial Saints, they were also the "burdens" Lin Fei spoke of?

"Elder Lin, you might be underestimating the Martial Saints of our Ancient Origin Sect."

"Indeed, Elder Lin's strength is awe-inspiring, capable of defeating Jiang Tianyun of the Illusion Worry City. However, the depth of our Ancient Origin Sect is unparalleled. Where can Illusion Worry City even compare? Even for Jiang Tianyun, there are no less than ten Martial Saints in the Ancient Origin Sect who can defeat him!"

"Elder Lin, having joined the Ancient Origin Sect midway, perhaps you do not truly grasp our essence. Our Ancient Origin Sect boasts a profound legacy. We have numerous formidable Martial Saints. Defeating Jiang Tianyun doesn't render one invincible amongst the Martial Saints."

"To view other Martial Saints as burdens, Elder Lin, you might be overestimating yourself."

For a moment, virtually all of the Martial Saint elders were discontented with Lin Fei. Only the Wind Sovereign and the Sect Leader remained silent. Both of them understood clearly. Lin Fei's accomplishments weren't just limited to defeating Jiang Tianyun. Lin Fei had also repelled the Golden Core level magic treasure, the Great Mountain Seal! He even killed the two proud disciples of the Taiyi Dao Palace.

With a swift glance, Lin Fei's cold voice rang out, "If any dissenters exist, you are welcome to test my strength in the arena! I don't wish to enter the perilous Immortal Mansion while being distracted by the need to protect others."

Lin Fei didn't intend to offend everyone. However, entering the Immortal Mansion posed undeniable risks. Lin Fei didn't want to be burdened with protecting others.

Furthermore, acting alone, he could operate without any restraints. The gains would surely be much more than if several Martial Saints acted together.

"There might be dangers within the Immortal Mansion. Elder Lin's concerns are understandable. If anyone truly has confidence, they can challenge Elder Lin on the platform. Even teaming up is permissible. Elder Lin, you wouldn't mind, would you?"

Wind Sovereign suddenly interjected. This was akin to pouring oil onto a raging fire! All the Martial Saints' faces turned unsightly. Only the Sect Leader and Wind Sovereign retained their composure. Their gaze toward Lin Fei carried a subtle depth.

"I don't mind. Team up if you wish. I'll take on all challengers."

Lin Fei responded indifferently.

260. Lin Fei Versus the Five Elders

Lin Fei's words caused an uproar amongst the Martial Saints present in the grand hall. Each one of them held status and prestige, standing high within the ranks of the Ancient Origin Sect, and wielding considerable power.

Yet today, there was a Martial Saint who blatantly disregarded their existence. He even belittled them, deeming them as burdens. How could they tolerate such insolence?

However, some Martial Saints found it curious that neither the Sect Leader nor the Wind Sovereign intervened. On the contrary, they seemed to be fanning the flames, as if they supported Lin Fei.

At that moment, the Wind Sovereign was secretly communicating with the Sect Leader.

"Sect Leader, these Martial Saints have become too complacent in the Ancient Origin Sect. We haven't clashed with Taiyi Dao Palace for several centuries. Look at these Martial Saints. Some have managed to form two flowers but couldn't cultivate the Spirit Flower. Many haven't even condensed their Saber Momentum. At this rate, when will our sect produce another Martial Sovereign? Lin Fei, who joined us merely half a year ago, lacks roots here. Yet his power is undeniable. Why not let him give these Martial Saints a proper lesson? Remind them that the Ancient Origin Sect stands upon martial prowess. Without formidable martial strength, all words are in vain."

The Sect Leader nodded repeatedly. Although he didn't always oversee the sect's affairs and just reserved his intervention for significant events, it didn't mean he was oblivious to the state of the Ancient Origin Sect.

Without external threats, many of the sect's Martial Saints had lost their ambition and drive. Thus, for centuries, the sect had failed to produce another Martial Sovereign. If this persisted, the lifespans of the Ancient Origin Sect's Martial Sovereigns would soon reach their end. At that point, the sect might find itself without a single Martial Sovereign, signaling the sect's impending doom.

In this scenario, Lin Fei appeared like a ferocious dragon, recklessly and audaciously asserting his might within the Ancient Origin Sect, relying solely on his martial prowess. This was commendable. In a martial arts sect, if strength doesn't dictate status, would seniority? If a sect starts prioritizing seniority over strength, then its downfall is imminent.

"Which among the Martial Saints is willing to spar with Elder Lin?" The Sect Leader spoke deliberately.

Hearing the Sect Leader's solemn tone, it appeared as if he truly wished to see a duel between the Martial Saints and Lin Fei. For a moment, some of the Martial Saints began to sense the underlying meaning. Was the Sect Leader indirectly supporting Lin Fei? Yet, these Martial Saints, esteemed as they were, could not swallow their pride.

"I would like to experience Elder Lin's techniques for myself."

"Count me in as well."

"Elder Lin has cultivated two flowers and has also grasped the Saber Momentum. He's not ordinary; include me."

"I am currently attempting to evolve my Saber Momentum. This would be an excellent opportunity to learn from Elder Lin."

And so, one by one, the Martial Saints stepped forward. Each of these Martial Saints was remarkably potent. Each had cultivated two flowers. Some had understood the momentum of martial arts, while others had not. Yet, once they descended from their mountaintop abodes, their powers were fearsome enough to sweep across all directions.

"Good. Five elders in total. Elder Lin, what say you?"

"Agreeable."

Lin Fei nodded. Facing the top five most formidable Martial Saints, each having cultivated two flowers, did place some pressure upon him. Battling against those of the Foundation Establishment True Person stage was, after all, not the same as battling martial artists.

"Very well, without delay, let's proceed to the arena."

The Sect Leader made a decisive call. Thus, Lin Fei and the five elders flew directly toward the arena. At this moment, in the center of the arena, several Martial Saint disciples seemed to be in the midst of a battle. However, with a mere wave of the Sect Leader's hand, an overpowering force descended, suppressing these Martial Saint disciples.

"Postpone your battle for now. Clear the arena. Elder Lin and the five elders will engage in a sparring match."

The Sect Leader's voice echoed through the void. The disciples in the arena were immediately and forcefully relocated outside of it.

"Is that the Sect Leader?"

"Not just the Sect Leader, but also the Law Enforcement Hall's Master, Wind Sovereign."

"Did the Sect Leader just say that Elder Lin is going to spar with the five elders?"

"Yes, Elder Lin has arrived, and so have the five elders."

"All five elders have cultivated two flowers. Are they joining forces to duel against Elder Lin?"

"What exactly transpired here?"

For a moment, many disciples were taken aback. Each of these five elders held significant power and influence. Within the entire Ancient Origin Sect, they belonged to the core echelon.

Yet now, they were joining forces to battle Lin Fei. Merely a friendly spar? Who would believe that? It was simply unimaginable!

Certainly, some significant event had taken place, though they remained in the dark about it. Consequently, many disciples immediately notified their friends. Within a short span, a multitude of disciples crowded onto the arena. The Sect Leader, without initiating the duel, seemingly intended for a vast assembly of disciples to witness the event.

By this time, the five elders were well-aware: they couldn't afford a loss in this battle. A defeat would mean a complete loss of face, making it impossible to retain their present dignified positions. They were trapped in a situation with no easy exit. Thus, this duel wasn't just a simple spar; it pertained to their identities, statuses, and prestige. Victory was the only option; defeat was unacceptable.

Before long, the arena below was densely packed with disciples. Among them, some elite true disciples had also rushed to the scene upon hearing the news. The Sect Leader, discerning that the crowd had gathered substantially, finally declared, "Enough attendees. Five elders, Elder Lin, spar gently and begin."

Upon the Sect Leader's command, the five elders moved without delay or courtesy. The moment the Sect Leader ordered, they took immediate action, holding nothing back. Above their heads, two blossoms materialized. Employing swift techniques, they launched direct assaults on Lin Fei. The might of five Martial Saints, each with two blossoms, was nothing to scoff at, especially in the confined space of the arena. The moment they acted, the elders could almost instantly close the distance to Lin Fei. Such a battle, in essence, placed Lin Fei at a significant disadvantage.

The pressure was indeed immense as the five elders combined their forces. Their formidable aura was overwhelming. The combined Energy Flowers and Qi Flowers in the void numbered ten, merging to form an overpowering force that swept toward Lin Fei. Moreover, the elders attacked with the force of a thunderbolt, not giving Lin Fei even a moment to catch his breath.

Facing such an assault, many disciples below the arena felt their hearts constrict. They believed that even a Martial Saint with three flowers, who hadn't stepped into the Martial Sovereign realm, would probably not withstand such a fearsome combined blow from the five elders.

However, in the next instant, Lin Fei made his move. A crimson radiance emerged from within him. The Blood Energy Domain!

Immediately, as the Blood Energy Domain enveloped the area, the five elders felt a sudden heaviness, as if the circulation of blood throughout their bodies became constricted. They were being suppressed! The Energy Flowers above their heads flickered and wavered violently, clearly under the intense oppression of the Blood Energy Domain. For a moment, the speed of the five elders slowed down considerably.

This was merely the beginning.

The hum of an immense force filled the arena once more. It was Lin Fei's Transcendent Saber Momentum. Among the five elders, one wielded a saber. But now, under the influence of Lin Fei's Saber Momentum, the elder's saber trembled violently. Drawing the weapon seemed almost an impossible task.

With the dual oppression of the Blood Energy Domain and the Transcendent Saber Momentum, the elders found their strength reduced by more than half. If it had been merely the Saber Momentum, the pressure wouldn't have been so fearsome. But combined with the Blood Energy Domain, the suppression was truly terrifying.

However, the confines of the arena meant that even while under suppression, the elders still had some strength left. They continued their approach to Lin Fei. A hint of a smirk even appeared on their faces. It was as if, once they got close enough, victory would be theirs.

In a swift movement, Lin Fei flicked his finger, unleashing the Rainbow Transformation Saber Technique. A streak of rainbow light, which instantly expanded to hundreds of meters in length, flashed across the arena. Above Lin Fei, a second flower appeared – the Qi Flower. As the Qi Flower materialized, the Rainbow Transformation Saber, now stretching over hundreds of meters, slashed directly at the five elders. Another streak appeared, the Flame Burning Heaven Saber. It was as if a blade comprised entirely of flames had emerged, causing the surrounding air temperature to surge dramatically. Yet another saber, the Holy Spirit Saber, emerged.

All three blades, reaching heights of several hundred meters, slashed forward with unmatched power.

The entire arena shook violently. It seemed as if the platform itself was on the brink of shattering. Wind Sovereign and the Sect Leader exchanged a glance and, with a gesture, a unique force enveloped the entire arena, preserving its integrity.

One of the elders, under the attack of the Flame Burning Heaven Saber, was severely injured, coughing up blood. Following him, the second, third, and the rest were all driven back, wounded.

With a mere thought, Lin Fei suspended the three massive sabers in the void.

"Merge."

The three blades united into one. These were the techniques of a Martial Saint level, imbued with saber intent. Now, as the three combined, they formed a divine saber stretching several thousand meters. Its mere presence and the aura it radiated were enough to make hearts race.

Lin Fei stood calmly atop the platform, his power evident for all to witness. The outcome of the battle was becoming clear, and the atmosphere in the arena was thick with anticipation.

"You're too weak!" Lin Fei expressed his disappointment with a tinge of sadness. He had initially thought that the five elders would be formidable opponents. However, after their encounter, he realized that these elders were not even a match for Jiang Tianyun. They might have possessed high cultivation realms, but in an actual fight, they were sorely lacking.

The complexions of the five elders grew ashen. Their gazes were fixed on the massive saber suspended in the air, its intimidating presence undeniable. Deep down, they all knew the truth – they had lost, and it wasn't just a mere loss. It was a crushing defeat. Lin Fei hadn't even displayed his full strength, and they had already been bested. Their internal pride was shattered, making them feel as if they were on the verge of vomiting blood.

They had previously thought that even though Lin Fei was powerful, they also had two flowers. Even if there was a disparity in strength, it shouldn't have been that vast. But now, after a fierce battle, the painful realization dawned upon them. The gap between Lin Fei and them was not just a mere difference; it was a chasm, a stark contrast.

"We... we admit defeat," one of the elders finally mustered the courage to speak, breaking the tense silence. Had Lin Fei's saber descended, they wouldn't even have had the opportunity to surrender; their fate would have been sealed.

With the elders' concession, the spectators surrounding the platform, all disciples of the Ancient Origin Sect, were left in utter shock.