Chapter 354-358 (Patreon)

354. The Master of the Dao Artifact

"Passed the test? So, you can be tamed now?" Lin Fei fixed his gaze on Dubhe, a glint of brilliance flashing in his eyes.

"Yes, I can now be tamed. Let's begin the process." Dubhe smiled faintly.

"Whoosh."

In the next moment, Dubhe disappeared, transforming into a jade pendant and directly entering Lin Fei's body. Furthermore, Dubhe entered Lin Fei at a particle level. This meant if someone's power couldn't destroy Lin Fei's particles, no one could snatch away Dubhe.

As Dubhe melded into him, Lin Fei closed his eyes. Visions and information about "Dubhe" emerged in his mind. For instance, he learned that Dubhe is a Dao Artifact, crafted by a true immortal at the Dao Integration level, named Dubhe. It is an entirely supportive instrument, containing various teachings of the Immortal Dao, Martial Dao, various secret manuals, formation methods, magic treasure crafting, and more - a vast collection gathered by True Immortal Dubhe after investing endless efforts. Before leaving, True Immortal Dubhe left behind the Dubhe Dao Artifact for someone predestined to find. Lin Fei was that person.

"Dubhe," With a thought, Lin Fei summoned Dubhe.

"Master," Dubhe reappeared.

"What is Dao Integration?" Lin Fei inquired.

"The stages of Immortal Dao are Qi Condensation, Foundation Establishment, Golden Core, Nascent Soul, Deity Transformation, Dao Integration, and Great Completion. Dao Integration is also known as becoming a True Immortal. It signifies understanding the Great Dao and achieving the status of a True Immortal!"

Lin Fei's eyes shone brightly. Dao Integration to become a True Immortal! So, the term "Immortal" actually refers to Dao Integration. The Dubhe Dao Artifact is indeed a great opportunity.

"Am I the first master of you?"

"No, Qing Yuzi was its first master. Initially, Qing Yuzi and Hua Xiangzi discovered True Immortal Dubhe's cave mansion and subsequently obtained the treasures of True Immortal Dubhe. Among them, Qing Yuzi received the Dubhe Dao Artifact. Later, Qing Yuzi and Hua Xiangzi became Dao companions.

However, in her pursuit of Deity Transformation, Hua Xiangzi ambushed Qing Yuzi, seizing his treasures. Gravely injured, Qing Yuzi fled here with only the Dubhe Dao Artifact left. He cultivated diligently, but due to Hua Xiangzi's betrayal, his foundation was damaged. He could only cultivate to half-step Deity Transformation, never truly achieving it.

When Qing Yuzi's life limit approached, he left the Dubhe Dao Artifact behind and sought Hua Xiangzi for closure. Unfortunately, he died, severing his connection with the Dubhe Dao Artifact. The Azure Flood Dragon King was specifically captured by Qing Yuzi to set up a large formation, utilizing the Spiritual Qi of the entire continent to nourish the Flood Dragon King's inner pill. This was all to refine the Jade Liquid in an attempt to repair his foundation. Alas, even the Jade Liquid couldn't restore him completely."

Lin Fei understood. Qing Yuzi was the first master of the Dubhe Dao Artifact. However, he didn't achieve Deity Transformation and was even betrayed by his Dao companion. In the pursuit of the Dao, even one's companion could prove unreliable.

"This Jade Liquid, besides repairing the foundation, does it have any benefits for martial artists?" Lin Fei asked.

"The Jade Liquid has little effect on martial artists. Yet, for one with a Golden Core, its impact is profound. In fact, the Jade Liquid has another name — the Nascent Soul Transformation Liquid. As the name suggests, it greatly aids the process of Nascent Soul transformation.

However, the concoction of the Nascent Soul Transformation Liquid is arduous. It demands the alignment of heaven and earth. For instance, the entire continent must absorb the Spiritual Qi from the heavens and earth for twenty thousand years to produce but a mere drop of this liquid. And only with the core of the Azure Flood Dragon, a sea creature of extraordinary talent, can this Jade Liquid possibly come into existence."

Lin Fei was somewhat disheartened for the Jade Liquid held no value to martial artists. Which meant it was currently of no use to him. He couldn't leap forward in strength due to this fortuitous encounter.

"Master, the martial path is different from the path of the immortals. The True Immortal Dubhe once said that the martial way is a journey to break one's own chains, all must be achieved through one's own efforts. Yet, once these chains are shattered, the accomplishments of the martial path can be boundless, possibly even surpassing that of the immortals!"

Lin Fei's eyes sparkled with realization. This was spoken by Dubhe, the true immortal. Once the martial path reached its zenith, it might even surpass the way of the immortals.

Of course, Lin Fei was still far from that peak. But on reflection, the power of a martial artist was inherent. There was no need to rely on external forces. Indeed, in this respect, the martial path seemed stronger than that of the immortals.

"The Dubhe Dao Artifact is merely a storage space, meant to hold manuals?"

Lin Fei felt that such a grand artifact, crafted by a Dao Integration true immortal, seemed a bit underwhelming in its prowess. After all, there were many magical treasures that could store techniques and scriptures. There seemed to be no need to specifically forge such an artifact.

"Master, aside from storing scriptures, the Dubhe Dao Artifact serves another crucial purpose. It can accelerate time! Anything related to time is a domain only those of the true immortal level can touch, if only just barely. In this aspect alone, the Dubhe Dao Artifact surpasses all other magical treasures."

"Time acceleration?"

A notion stirred within Lin Fei. Such an ability defied the heavens. To Lin Fei, sometimes, he indeed wished for time to move faster. After all, his lifespan was vast, yet his cultivation was young. There were instances where step-by-step cultivation could lead to the peak.

Yet, regrettably, Lin Fei didn't have the luxury of time. For instance, his Saber Domain! The direction of its completion was already clear to Lin Fei. He didn't need to worry about its cultivation. Time was all he needed to reach perfection.

But how long would it take? A year? A decade? Or a century? Lin Fei was uncertain. However, with time acceleration, Lin Fei could perfect his Saber Domain in a short span, preparing him for impending crises.

"How can I accelerate time?" Lin Fei inquired.

"Typically, only a true immortal can activate time acceleration. But Dubhe, the true immortal, forged the Dubhe Dao Artifact. It consumes vast energy to accelerate time. This energy is not ordinary. It is unimaginably vast. Certain Spiritual Qi stones, spirit liquids, and the cores of exotic beasts can serve this purpose."

Lin Fei pondered deeply. He realized that this energy must be truly extraordinary.

"Wait, can the Jade Liquid serve as this energy?"

Lin Fei's eyes lit up, gazing at the vast pool of Jade Liquid. That was what Qing Yuzi had set up with the great formation, taking tens of thousands of years, absorbing the entire Spiritual Qi of the Great Chang.

Now Lin Fei began to grasp why the Great Chang declined. Many exotic beasts had become extinct. Because the formation Qing Yuzi set was ceaselessly drawing the Spiritual Qi. With the decrease in Spiritual Qi, exotic beasts were affected. Some left the Great Chang, while others perished.

Naturally, the martial and immortal paths of the Great Chang faced hindrances. Many strong beings had to cross the seas, seeking the Ancient Continent. All could be traced back to Qing Yuzi's formation. All because of this Jade Liquid!

355. Hundred-fold Temporal Acceleration

"Jade Liquid? Of course. And indeed, nothing could be better!" Dubhe nodded in agreement.

"In that case, once we extract the Jade Liquid, we could accelerate time within the Dubhe Dao Artifact!"

Lin Fei's heart stirred. He promptly lifted his gaze, casting it towards the distant pool of Jade Liquid. Without hesitation, he took a step forward, drawing near to the pool's edge.

A hum resonated. In the next moment, within the Jade Liquid pool, a phantasmal figure in Daoist robes materialized. A mere illusory shadow.

"Fellow Daoist, I am Qing Yuzi."

"Qing Yuzi?"

Lin Fei was taken aback. Hadn't Qing Yuzi perished? Why was he here?

"Do not be alarmed, fellow Daoist. If you've seen this avatar of my divided spirit after all this time, I'm probably no longer alive. Considering you've made it here, even passing Dubhe's test, becoming its master, you must undoubtedly be exceptional, a peak individual with prospects of Deity Transformation!

If you wish to extract the Jade Liquid, feel free. But remember, this Jade Liquid is the culmination of my life's efforts, condensed over countless years. If you do decide to take it, all I ask is that when it's within your capabilities, you grant me a favor.

Should a day come when your power surpasses Hua Xiangzi, I implore you, in the name of our friendship, to slay Hua Xiangzi, avenging the grudges in my heart.

Of course, no vows are necessary, nor is it a demand. I merely hope that you'd consider our shared karma, take the Jade Liquid, and help me achieve my long-held desire..."

Upon saying this, the avatar of the divided spirit began to dissipate slowly, eventually vanishing without a trace.

"Dubhe, was that the divided spirit of Qing Yuzi? Could it be that Qing Yuzi has already achieved Deity Transformation? To even leave behind an avatar of his spirit?"

Lin Fei queried Dubhe. Leaving behind an avatar of one's divided spirit was no trivial matter. Even Nascent Soul powerhouses couldn't achieve this. Only those of Deity Transformation status could manifest countless divine senses, only then could they create a divided spirit.

Dubhe slightly shook its head, "Qing Yuzi isn't a Deity Transformation powerhouse. True Deity Transformation powerhouses, each of their divided spirits can dominate a region, possessing unparalleled skills. Unlike Qing Yuzi, who merely manifested an avatar.

This is merely a trace of Qing Yuzi's divine sense. He had a breakthrough, reaching a half-step Deity Transformation, hence his ability to leave behind an avatar of his divine sense. Yet, Qing Yuzi is still half a step away from achieving a divided spirit. In his weakened state, he couldn't bridge that half-step, no matter how hard he tried."

Lin Fei nodded, albeit clueless about Qing Yuzi's compromised foundation or the exact circumstances of the divided spirit. Nevertheless, these details were trivial to Lin Fei. He wasn't even a Martial King.

Moreover, martial arts didn't have the concept of a divided spirit. Martial artists didn't tread the path of divided spirits.

Lin Fei could extract this Jade Liquid freely. Moreover, Qing Yuzi didn't impose any oath upon Lin Fei. The terms were even quite lenient. Only if Lin Fei surpassed Hua Xiangzi in strength, would he act on his own accord whether to seek vengeance on Hua Xiangzi.

Hence, Lin Fei felt no moral burden in taking the Jade Liquid. However, having benefited from Qing Yuzi, Lin Fei nodded, "Should there come a day when my strength surpasses Hua Xiangzi, I shall avenge you."

With these words, Lin Fei extended his hand, and in his palm, the Dubhe Dao Artifact materialized.

"Go."

Lin Fei's thoughts stirred. The Dubhe Dao Artifact soared directly into the Jade Liquid Pool.

"So many Jade Liquid Pools, it can accelerate for a significant period," he mused.

"Dubhe, how long can time be accelerated within?" Lin Fei inquired.

"Inside the Dubhe, time can be sped up to a hundredfold," came the reply.

Lin Fei pondered this. A hundredfold acceleration of time. A single day outside meant a hundred days within the Dubhe. An entire year outside was akin to a century within. The thought was indeed daunting.

Lin Fei promptly entered the Dubhe. Inside, it consisted of several layers. There was a cultivation space. A space for martial arts manuals. And in the chamber, Lin Fei stumbled upon an unexpected discovery. Could this Dubhe Dao Artifact also serve as a protective magical treasure? After all, a Dao Artifact surely couldn't be easily destroyed, could it?

"Should danger befall me, I would retreat within the Dao Artifact. Would I be safe then? To what extent can the Dubhe shield from attacks?" Lin Fei pressed on.

The Dubhe clarified, "The Dubhe is but an auxiliary Dao Artifact. Neither attack nor defense is its forte. However, it remains a Dao Artifact, made of unique materials. Attacks below Dao Integration essentially can't harm it.

But, if the master hides within, safety isn't guaranteed. If the enemy seals or confines it, they likewise trap the master. Powerful beings, like Nascent Soul and Deity Transformation masters, could even forcibly refine the Dao Artifact. In such a scenario, the master would face certain doom. Hence, unless absolutely necessary, the master shouldn't seek refuge within. The enemy would surely covet such a Dao Artifact."

Lin Fei understood. Upon reflection, it indeed seemed so. Taking refuge inside the Dubhe Dao Artifact had its limitations. It might merely delay one's demise. Yet, in desperate situations... When there seemed to be no way out... It might just save a life.

Lin Fei was now deep in contemplation. To accelerate time or not? If he did, he could only cultivate his Saber Domain. However, he couldn't discern how long it might take to perfect the Saber Domain. Perhaps a year, maybe a decade, or even a century!

If his lifespan was mere centuries., he might not have opted for time acceleration. But Lin Fei was a Martial Sovereign. He had a lifespan of millennia! Such an extended life, even if he accelerated time and consumed some of it, wouldn't be a significant loss.

Furthermore, if he did accelerate, Lin Fei would closely monitor the situation, ensuring not overextend. At present, the only rapid advancement available to Lin Fei was the Saber Domain!

Once the Saber Domain was perfected, Lin Fei's prowess would surge. Possibly enough to deter any Golden Core cultivator or Martial Sovereign beyond the Great Chang.

"Dubhe, accelerate time. Accelerate it a hundredfold! Draw energy from the Jade Liquid."

"As you wish, master."

And thus, the Dubhe began to radiate brilliant luminescence. It then started absorbing vast quantities of Jade Liquid from the pool.

Inside the Dubhe's cultivation chamber, Lin Fei faintly felt a distortion in the void as if an intangible force was acting upon him. Of course, he felt little else. He simply closed his eyes, deeply immersing himself in understanding the Saber Domain.

Beyond the seas of Great Chang, a colossal ship slowly approached the shore. This ship seemed to be a magical treasure, Unyielding to the attacks of sea beasts, traversing the vast oceans as if it were solid ground.

A sharp sound echoed, as from within the ship, eight Golden Core True Persons emerged, taking to the skies. They landed on the soils of Great Chang.

"Yuanlong's life lamp has shattered; he has fallen."

"Who could possibly have slain Yuanlong?"

"This mere treasure-rich land, so barren, where even the Spiritual Qi is so sparse — how could it possibly harbor one who could defeat Yuanlong?"

"It must be other Martial Sovereigns or Golden Cores from the Ancient Continent."

"Hmph, no matter who dealt the lethal blow, any who dare kill an elder of my Heavenly River Dao Sect shall face retribution!"

"There's no need for a lengthy investigation. Let us sweep through this treasure-rich land and let everyone know it now belongs to the Heavenly River Dao Sect!"

"While we're at it, let's find and execute the one who murdered Yuanlong."

"Indeed, let us employ this method!"

Thus, the eight Golden Core True Persons transformed into a streak of radiant light, heading straight into the heart of Great Chang.

356. Perfection Realm Saber Domain

Inside the Dubhe Dao Artifact.

With a whoosh sound, Lin Fei abruptly opened his eyes. "Ten years! I accelerated time by ten years. So, only about 37 days or roughly a month has passed outside?"

After opening his eyes and through the Dubhe Dao Artifact, Lin Fei instantly grasped the time he'd accelerated: a full ten years. The reason he awoke now was that his Saber Domain had reached perfection!

Yes, in merely ten years, the Saber Domain was perfected. This was crucial for Lin Fei and even beyond his expectations. He had initially thought it might take decades or even a century for the Saber Domain to become perfect. Yet, it only took ten years.

"System," Lin Fei called out to inspect.

Host: Lin Fei

Martial Realm: Mid-stage Martial Sovereign

Great Divine Ability: Black Wind Prison: Perfection

Great Divine Ability: Gravity Domain: Perfection

Great Divine Ability: Dual-World Saber: Perfection

Great Divine Ability: Annihilation: Perfection

Great Divine Ability: Undying Seal: Perfection

Great Divine Ability: Pierce: Transcendence (Progress 2%)

Saber Domain: Perfection (Progress 0%)

Lin Fei's Saber Domain was indeed perfected.

"Hold on, the Divine Ability Pierce has transcended?"

It was then that Lin Fei noticed this. He remembered that his Pierce was merely at mastery, a fact he wouldn't mistake.

Delving into his memories, Lin Fei discovered the reason. The Pierce Divine Ability had seen some progression when it pierced through the seal on the glacier. Then, during the test of the Dubhe Dao Artifact, it pierced a giant python, further enhancing its progression. However, it hadn't transcended yet and was just slightly short.

Inside the Dao Artifact, as time accelerated for ten years, the Pierce Divine Ability was slowly cultivated and improved, even if it wasn't apparent. Therefore, after the ten-year acceleration, the Pierce Divine Ability had improved. And Lin Fei seemed to have missed the system's voice in his mind.

"Saber Domain perfected, Pierce Divine Ability transcended." Both the Saber Domain and the Pierce Divine Ability showed great progress.

Taking a deep breath, Lin Fei promptly left the Dubhe Dao Artifact.

"Saber Domain!"

Around Lin Fei, a white glow instantly emerged, signifying the perfection of the Saber Domain. Now it had fully transformed from illusion to reality, vast and boundless, like a colossal barrier separating the inner and outer worlds, forming its own space.

Moreover, Perfection Saber Domain's power was immense. Lin Fei faintly felt that even the previous python, despite possessing the bloodline of the White Dragon, might not be able to tear through his Saber Domain anymore. Whether the Great Mountain Divine Seal could break through Lin Fei's Saber Domain was something Lin Fei was uncertain about.

The power of the Great Mountain Divine Seal was indeed unfathomable, being a magic treasure of the Nascent Soul realm. Even if Lin Fei's Saber Domain had reached perfection, it was still only at the Martial Sovereign level, still a realm behind.

However, with the combined power of the Saber Domain and the Gravity Domain, facing the Golden Core and Martial Sovereign level, Lin Fei could now truly claim to be unmatched within the Martial Sovereign realm.

"Over a month has passed. It's time to return to the Nine Profound Sect."

Lin Fei, having discovered the secret of Great Chang and even possessing the treasure of Great Chang, quickly departed from the sealed location and even left the glacier, heading straight towards the Nine Profound Sect.

Within the void surrounding the Nine Profound Sect, stood eight individuals emanating the aura of Golden Core True Persons. These were the elite from the Heavenly River Dao Sect. They had come to Great Chang, sweeping all in their path, and had learned of the identity of the one who slew Yuanlong: Lin Fei, the Martial Saint of Nine Profound Sect, famously known as Saber Saint. But now, he had a new title, Saber Sovereign Lin Fei.

From Saber Saint to Saber Sovereign, the change of one word signified a massive difference in power, status, and identity. The title of Saber Sovereign, even within the Ancient Continent, was seen as supremely prestigious, representing the pinnacle amongst Martial Sovereigns.

"It's unbelievable that a mere place like Great Chang, a barren land, could produce someone like Lin Fei."

"He defeated Yuanlong in direct combat, which is truly extraordinary."

Witnesses to the battle between Lin Fei and Yuanlong recalled, "Yuanlong tried to use his water escape technique, but was trapped. He even shouted 'Martial Domain' during the battle."

"It seems that Lin Fei indeed deserves the title of Saber Sovereign. He most likely possesses the Saber Domain!"

"Only a Martial Sovereign who has evolved a Saber Domain truly deserves the title of Saber Sovereign."

These eight Golden Core True Persons from the Heavenly River Dao Sect did not underestimate Lin Fei. In fact, they highly regarded him. Yuanlong wasn't a pushover, especially with his Water Escape technique and the Heavenly River Orb. With the water escape technique, almost no one could capture or kill him. Yet, he was defeated and killed by Lin Fei, clearly indicating the power of Lin Fei's Martial Domain or more specifically, his Saber Domain.

"No matter what, we, the Heavenly River Dao Sect, are determined to seize this treasure-rich land!"

They then arrived directly at the entrance of the Nine Profound Sect. One of the Golden Core True Persons shouted with a booming voice that echoed throughout the sect, "Eight True Persons from Heavenly River Dao Sect request Saber Sovereign Lin Fei to grace us with his presence!"

The entire Nine Profound Sect held its breath in anticipation of what would come next.

The swift sounds of movement echoed through the Nine Profound Sect as the sect leader and Zhao Kongming immediately left their respective residences, looking up to the sky. Their expressions darkened upon witnessing the imposing aura of the eight Golden Core True Persons from the Heavenly River Dao Sect.

Understanding the gravity of the situation, Zhao Kongming clenched his teeth and responded, "Sovereign Lin is out and has not returned yet."

"Not back?" One of the Golden Core True Persons raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable.

Without further ado, the eight unleashed their divine sense, scanning every inch of the Nine Profound Sect. Confirming Lin Fei's absence, they exchanged glances. With their combined might, annihilating the entire Nine Profound Sect would be a trivial task. But the Nine Profound Sect was insignificant to them; their true objective was Lin Fei.

The Heavenly River Dao Sect's grand arrival was to proclaim to the Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core True Persons of the Ancient Continent their authority. They sought to dominate the treasure-rich lands of Great Chang and to achieve that, they needed to challenge, even defeat, its strongest: Saber Sovereign Lin Fei.

Destroying the Nine Profound Sect wouldn't serve its purpose and would only enrage Lin Fei further. They were cautious about pushing a formidable Martial Sovereign to his limits. If Lin Fei were driven to desperation and began operating from the shadows, the trouble for the Heavenly River Dao Sect would magnify.

With a decisive move, one of the Golden Core True Persons threw down a challenge scroll. Addressing the members of the Nine Profound Sect below, he announced, "We, the eight Golden Core True Persons of the Heavenly River Dao Sect, challenge Saber Sovereign Lin Fei to a duel at the ruins of the Hidden Sword Sect. Saber Sovereign must arrive at the Hidden Sword Sect ruins in three days. The victor will have authority over Great Chang. The loser will have to leave Great Chang forever and never return."

Without waiting for a response, the eight Golden Core True Persons turned around, transforming into streaks of golden light, disappearing into the horizon.

357. Accept the Challenge

The challenge set by the eight Golden Core True Persons of the Heavenly River Dao Sect to the Nine Profound Sect's Saber Sovereign Lin Fei spread like wildfire throughout Great Chang. Most natives of Great Chang had little knowledge of the Heavenly River Dao Sect. However, they were all too aware that eight Golden Core True Persons would be no ordinary threat, especially given their potential combined might.

But for the Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core True Persons hailing from the Ancient Continent, the news meant much more. They were well-acquainted with the formidable reputation of the Heavenly River Dao Sect, a sect renowned for its Nascent Soul lineage. With eight of its Golden Core True Persons challenging Lin Fei, it was a clear gesture of acknowledging Lin Fei's might on par with theirs.

However, regardless of the outcome between the Golden Core True Persons and Lin Fei, Great Chang was bound to come under solid authority. The other Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core individuals began to feel the pressure of the impending shift.

Upon his return to Nine Profound Sect, Lin Fei examined the challenge scroll, his expression a mix of surprise and anticipation. Was the sect using this method because they feared him?

"Sovereign Lin," the sect leader expressed his concerns, "Facing the eight Golden Core True Persons of the Heavenly River Dao Sect is daunting. Moreover, I've heard they are of the Nascent Soul lineage. They are not to be underestimated."

Shen Lianxin, however, was quick to interject, "Sovereign Lin has faced Nascent Soul lineages before. He single-handedly confronted a Nascent Soul lineage on the Ancient Continent."

Shen was well-versed with Lin Fei's achievements, including his assault on the Taiyi Dao Palace.

"Merely sending eight Golden Core True Persons is a miscalculation on their part," He concluded confidently.

Nascent Soul lineages were undeniably potent, but without their paramount Nascent Soul figures, they were vulnerable, especially to someone of Lin Fei's caliber.

"I will accept their challenge," Lin Fei declared, his eyes gleaming with determination. "Once I deal with the eight Golden Core True Persons from the Heavenly River Dao Sect, I'll designate Great Chang as forbidden grounds. Anyone who dares to step into Great Chang will be executed without mercy."

Lin Fei's confidence was palpable. As a Martial Sovereign, he was unrivaled. No one could stand in his way unless Nascent Soul cultivators and Martial Kings.

"And yes, I've gathered some martial techniques of the Martial Saint caliber. They can be stored within the Nine Profound Sect. Once someone achieves the Martial Saint status, they can cultivate these techniques systematically. They can ascend to Martial Sovereign without needing to wander in search of the Dao. As for the issue of the exotic beast's flesh and blood, it's rather simple. Great Chang may lack exotic beasts, but the vast seas are teeming with them. I intend to hunt some sea beasts or perhaps capture and rear them within Great Chang."

Lin Fei had everything meticulously planned out. In fact, due to the grand array set up by Qing Yuzi in Great Chang, the Spiritual Qi had been dwindling.

However, for martial artists, this wasn't much of a concern. Their reliance on Spiritual Qi was minimal, to begin with. At most, it impacted the survival of the exotic beasts. But even that was no longer a pressing issue. The seas brimmed with countless exotic beasts. Both Lin Fei and Shen Lianxin could hunt them.

And if, in the future, another Martial Saint emerges from the Nine Profound Sect, they too could hunt. With the emergence of a Martial Saint, Lin Fei's martial techniques could assist them in cultivating all the way to Martial Sovereign, eliminating the risk of navigating the treacherous seas in search of the Dao.

These Martial Saint caliber techniques were all contained within the Dubhe Dao Artifact. They were collected by the true immortal of Dubhe. Most of these techniques were of the Martial Saint and Foundation Establishment level.

Lin Fei had no intention of passing down any immortal Dao techniques. Great Chang didn't need the path of immortals, just the martial path. Pulling out these martial techniques, the higher echelons of the Nine Profound Sect regarded them as invaluable treasures. Though they might not be able to cultivate these techniques, they symbolized the Sect's profound heritage.

With these techniques in their possession, the Nine Profound Sect could consistently produce Martial Saints. Perhaps even a Martial Sovereign. Elevating them to the top martial sect in all of Great Chang. Or even transforming Great Chang into a martial sacred land.

Lin Fei's vision was to mold the Nine Profound Sect into such a revered place. Great Chang was compact, not requiring numerous martial sects. Let the Nine Profound Sect stand as the pinnacle, continuously attracting the finest martial prodigies from all over Great Chang. Only in such a manner could Martial Saints and even Martial Sovereigns emerge. This was the real way to ensure Great Chang's long-term stability, and fearless of external threats.

In the blink of an eye, three days had passed.

The former site of the Hidden Sword Sect. Lin Fei had executed True Person Youming and seven other Golden Core True Persons here. Now, another group of eight Golden Core individuals awaited.

Yet, these eight Golden Cores were leagues beyond what True Person Youming could match. These were the eight Golden Cores from the Heavenly River Dao Sect. Any single one of them could easily rival the combined might of True Person Youming and his seven counterparts.

Near the Hidden Sword Sect, prying eyes occasionally scoured the vicinity. These belonged to the Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core True Persons from the Ancient Continent, all converging near the Hidden Sword Sect, eager to witness this forthcoming battle.

After all, the eight Golden Core True Persons of the Heavenly River Dao Sect and Saber Sovereign Lin Fei were not forces that one witnessed in action frequently. Moreover, this battle might determine the future course of all of Great Chang. Those Martial Sovereigns and Golden Cores who had come in search of "treasures" needed to ascertain who would truly dominate Great Chang in the coming times. And so, they had arrived early. Yet, Lin Fei was still not present.

"The Nine Profound Sect has relayed a message, stating that Saber Sovereign Lin Fei will indeed arrive."

"Sovereign Lin is indeed confident. Did he accept the challenge of thinking that the eight Golden Cores of the Heavenly River Dao Sect are comparable to Youming?"

"A man who has the ability to become a Saber Sovereign wouldn't be so naive. Moreover, Lin Fei has slain True Person Yuanlong. How could he be ignorant of the strength of the Heavenly River Dao Sect's Golden Core True Persons?"

"Having accepted the challenge, he must have some assurances. Or perhaps, even if defeated, he's confident in his ability to escape unscathed."

Various Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core True Persons whispered amongst themselves. Indeed, if one were to rashly accept a battle without a means of escape, there was the potential for downfall. Saber Sovereign Lin Fei surely couldn't be so foolish. He must have something to rely upon.

However, while Lin Fei had his backup, did the eight Golden Core True Persons of the Heavenly River Dao Sect not have their own confidence? The outcome of this battle was still unpredictable.

Time trickled away.

Suddenly, from a distance, two streaks of light shot toward the Hidden Sword Sect. Beneath them, a large number of disciples and elders from the Nine Profound Sect had already gathered, having arrived much earlier. After all, their speed was no match for Lin Fei's, hence they had come in advance.

"Saber Sovereign has arrived!"

"Which sect in the Ancient Continent is Saber Sovereign affiliated with?"

"I'm not certain."

In truth, many were curious about Saber Sovereign's identity. However, thus far, no one knew the specifics about Lin Fei.

Lin Fei and Shen Lianxin hovered in the void. Shen Lianxin descended directly, while Lin Fei remained aloft. His gaze fixated on the mountains of the Hidden Sword Sect where the eight Golden Core True Persons stood. From a distance, there seemed to be a massive river, almost as if it spanned across the void.

A formation! These eight Golden Cores had evidently set up a formation in advance. Clearly, one of their sources of confidence was this very formation.

"Saber Sovereign, do you dare enter the formation for battle?"

The voice of one of the Golden Core True Persons boomed like thunder, resonating through the void.

358. Expulsion Order

"Enter the formation?"

Lin Fei's eyes narrowed slightly. He saw the eight Golden Cores, each positioned at distinct locations. The entire Hidden Sword Sect resembled a vast "river." Entering it would surely spell unpredictable peril.

This was a formation! There are three primary methods in the path of immortality: formations, magic treasures, and spells. Of these, formations can harness the power of many, often turning the tide from the weak to the strong. The great protective formations of the immortal sects have safeguarded countless sect gates from being trampled upon. Lin Fei would never underestimate any formation.

"You guys have planned well. Setting up a grand formation here, inviting me to step into it. This formation is surely treacherous. But if I don't step into the formation, I cannot get close to you, much less deal with you. This is the vulnerability of a martial artist."

Lin Fei's voice echoed through the void.

The purpose of the eight Golden Cores setting up the formation was clear to many. It was an open stratagem! And a very blatant one at that! After all, formations are one of the most critical methods for a Golden Core True Person. Not using it would be absurd.

The eight Golden Cores were very confident. The Heavenly River Formation they had set was one of the foundational formations of the Heavenly River Dao Sect. Combined with specific magic treasures, its power was earth-shattering. Any Martial Sovereign or Golden Core who entered their Heavenly River Formation, up until now, none had come out alive!

Moreover, they had been preparing this formation for today's battle for a long time. They believed that the formation's power had been amplified to its utmost. The moment Lin Fei stepped in, they were sure of his doom! This was their open stratagem. As long as Lin Fei accepted the challenge, he would have no choice but to step into the formation.

"Do you believe that without entering the formation, I can't deal with you?"

Lin Fei's gaze locked onto the eight Golden Cores of the Heavenly River Dao Sect in the distance. Everyone knew that a Martial Sovereign's greatest strength was their Divine Ability. However, from a distance, the Divine Ability's potency diminishes.

But Lin Fei was not just any Martial Sovereign. He was the Saber Sovereign, possessing the Saber Domain! Furthermore, it was the Perfect Saber Domain!

With a deafening "boom," Lin Fei's Saber Domain erupted. The Perfect Saber Domain had transformed from intangible to tangible. Upon the descent of the Saber Domain, it segregated everything into two separate spaces.

Within the Saber Domain, Lin Fei was the true sovereign! Moreover, the Perfect Saber Domain had increased in range and power tenfold. Any with a Perfect Saber Domain could be deemed invincible amongst Martial Sovereigns. Without using any Divine Ability, just having the Perfect Saber Domain was enough to claim such supremacy.

In a certain sense, achieving a Perfect Saber Domain might even be as challenging as becoming a Martial King. As Lin Fei's Saber Domain descended, it immediately enveloped the entire Hidden Sword Sect. The eight Golden Cores and the formation set by them were instantly shrouded by Lin Fei's Saber Domain.

"This is... Saber Domain?" The faces of the eight Golden Cores changed drastically. They could recognize the Saber Domain, but the extent to which Lin Fei's domain reached, even from such a distance, was beyond their imagination. The pressure they felt was as if they were under the influence of a top-tier Great Divine Ability. And not just one!

"Move, damn it!" The eight Golden Cores panicked. Just the mere presence of Lin Fei's Saber Domain, which was far stronger than they anticipated, had immobilized them.

With a swift movement, Lin Fei stepped forward, instantly appearing before the eight Golden Cores, bypassing their formation without triggering it. Witnessing this, a sense of hopelessness took over the eight Golden Cores.

How long had they prepared for this? They were brimming with confidence, thinking that even if Lin Fei had the Saber Domain, they had considered it and made preparations. They believed they could withstand his Saber Domain. But who could've expected Lin Fei's Saber Domain to be this terrifying?

"It's perfect, it must be the Perfect Saber Domain!" One of the Golden Core True Persons exclaimed in horror.

Lin Fei nodded, "Indeed, it is the Perfect Saber Domain."

Hearing Lin Fei's confirmation, the faces of the eight Golden Core True Persons turned even more ashen. The Perfect Saber Domain was a marvel in martial arts. In fact, for those who had understood martial domains, merely mastering them was an achievement. As for transcending or perfecting it? That was even more challenging than becoming a Martial King!

Many Martial Sovereigns could become Martial Kings, but they hadn't grasped the martial domains, let alone perfect them. Once the Saber Domain reached perfection, it could rival the power of four or five top-tier Great Divine Abilities, without any weaknesses, complementing each other.

With Lin Fei's Saber Domain, merely unleashing it had suppressed them. How could they fight against such power?

"We concede! We will leave Great Chang immediately and the Heavenly River Dao Sect will never step foot on Great Chang again," the eight Golden Core True Persons immediately admitted defeat. There was no need to continue the battle. Going on would only lead them to certain death. At this point, they were merely lambs waiting to be slaughtered on Lin Fei's chopping block.

Lin Fei stared at the eight Golden Cores, their faces ashen, completely dispirited, without the will to contest any further. Although Lin Fei had initially planned to kill them all, his ultimate goal was to make Great Chang a forbidden area. Once the members of the Heavenly River Dao Sect returned to their homeland, they would naturally spread tales of his might. Then, no one would dare to trespass again.

Lin Fei didn't need to eradicate them completely. Instead, driving them away was enough. As long as they returned to the Ancient Continent and spoke of Lin Fei's prowess, other Martial Sovereigns and Golden Cores would think twice before venturing to Great Chang.

However, this move might attract even stronger cultivators in the future. Still, Lin Fei was fearless against anyone below the Nascent Soul realm. If any Nascent Soul Great Being wanted to come, they would have come already. Whether Lin Fei was killed or spared lives, they would eventually make their move.

It was inconceivable for anyone to believe that Great Chang possessed a Dao Artifact. Ultimately, Lin Fei withdrew his Saber Domain. He turned to the eight Golden Core True Persons and the surrounding Golden Core cultivators and Martial Sovereigns, proclaiming, "Great Chang belongs to me! From today, you have three days to leave Great Chang. Afterward, it will become a forbidden territory. Any martial artist or Qi cultivator who dares trespass... will be put to death!"

Lin Fei's declaration resonated in all directions. Many Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core True Persons were in uproar.

"Leave within three days or face death? This is too tyrannical!"

"Even if he is tyrannical, given that he has perfect Saber Domain, making him nearly invincible below the level of Martial King and Nascent Soul. What can we do?"

Many, despite their indignation, prepared to leave Great Chang. Lin Fei's reputation for ruthlessness was well known. He had dared to kill even Yuanlong. What would stop him from killing them?

As for the eight Golden Core True Persons from the Heavenly River Dao Sect, they left immediately, not even lingering to mourn Yuanlong. Soon, the area was deserted, leaving behind only the astounded members of the Nine Profound Sect.

On the twenty-sixth day of the fifth month of the second year of Changping, Saber Sovereign Lin Fei fought against the eight Golden Core True Persons of the Heavenly River Dao Sect at the Hidden Sword Sect. Using his Perfect Saber Domain, Saber Sovereign Lin Fei overpowered the eight Golden Core True Persons. He also issued a decree to all Martial Sovereigns and Golden Core cultivators in Great Chang: Leave within three days or face death!

When this news spread, the entire world was shaken!

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Been a long time. The world was finally shaken again!