280 - Elasia Saga

**Chapter 280** As the light and shadows dissipated, the small snow-white figure darted forward, only to find itself embracing empty air. In a matter of moments, the large cavern regained its silence. The patterns on the massive stone wall in front, once glowing with celestial fractures, dimmed to nothingness, as if nothing had ever occurred. “Chirp chirp…” The small medicine ball settled on the stone wall, tilting its head in puzzlement, issuing a couple of forlorn chirps, seemingly reluctant to watch Fu Juan's figure leave so swiftly. Hovering in mid-air, the demon spirit sighed lightly to itself. If it weren't for Fu Yan's restrictive powers binding it, it would have also darted into the Dragon Resting Place. The fortune inside could certainly elevate its strength to new heights. It was a thought too wonderful to bear. However, such thoughts could only remain as fantasies, leaving the demon spirit feeling deeply aggrieved. Fu Yan naturally disregarded the demon spirit’s sentiments. With Fu Juan safely returned to the Dragon Resting Place, her mind quickly refocused, recognizing that this was no place to linger. Without dwelling on anything else, she swiftly restrained the demon spirit once more, tossing it back into her mustard seed space. The demon spirit, tempted to shout, felt tool spirits deserved freedom too! It believed that the appellation 'demon spirit' fit Fu Yan herself far more suitably. After securing the demon spirit, Fu Yan casually dusted her hands and turned her gaze back to the small medicine ball. Letting out a gentle sigh, she reassured it softly, "Don’t worry, she’ll come back." But precisely when she would return, that was hard to say. Hearing this, the small medicine ball snapped back to awareness, its wide innocent eyes gazing at Fu Yan, "Chirp chirp..." Though its true form was a phoenix reborn from fire, its powers were currently sealed, preventing it from following Fu Juan into the Dragon Resting Place. Through the passing river of time, Fu Yan could guess that some significant events must have occurred involving both true dragons and phoenixes, resulting in the current situation. If the small medicine ball were to recklessly enter, it was unclear whether that would be beneficial or detrimental. Moreover, since Fu Juan had returned to inherit the powers of the Dragon Resting Place, having the little medicine ball tag along might cause complications. Until its seals were lifted, the opportunities inside wouldn't be of use. The dragon clan's barrier alone would be tough to breach. However, since the little medicine ball had absorbed a considerable amount of karmic fire for Fu Yan previously, she realized its powers were indeed extremely formidable, resembling those of an immortal like Bai Yue Li. It didn't truly need any fortune or inheritance. Fu Yan nodded in affirmation, unconsciously reaching out to stroke the little ball’s head before adding, "Alright, our senior sister is waiting outside; we should leave now." Upon hearing this, the small medicine ball fluttered its wings again, nestling onto Fu Yan's shoulder. Although it was indeed reluctant about Fu Juan's departure, it didn’t cause a fuss. Seeing this, Fu Yan's eyes softened with affection, her hand gently smoothing its feathers before making a swift move. Hastily, she headed towards the exit of the cave. A loud rumble followed. For reasons unbeknownst, just as Fu Yan stepped out of the cave, an enormous collapse sounded from within a second later. Pausing briefly, she glanced back to witness the cavern indeed collapsing entirely. The newly excavated passage by the Ghost Gate had been entirely buried. The entrance to the Dragon Resting Place, too, vanished within the mountain. Seeing the scene inside the cave, Fu Yan didn't think too much of it, considering Fu Juan had successfully carried the dragon egg into the Dragon Resting Place. The complete cave collapse saved quite a few troubles. Retracting her gaze, Fu Yan quickly surveyed the situation outside the cave. Although the beast tide was nearing its end, its remnants lingered, indicating it hadn't fully concluded. The forest was still being sucked into a massive whirlpool. Fu Yan ignored this, her gaze quickly lifting skyward towards Bai Yue Li's figure. The Ghost Gate's Immortal Da Neng, Gu Shi Dao Ren, was being pressured intensely, hardly afforded an opportunity to catch his breath. Yet, Gu Shi Dao Ren had quite a few life-saving trump cards on him. Despite Bai Yue Li's efforts, successfully killing him wasn't that easily achieved. Even so, Gu Shi Dao Ren showed no intention to flee, perhaps aware that reinforcements from the Ghost Gate were en route after receiving intelligence. His intent was merely to bide time. Observing this, Fu Yan couldn't help but scoff softly as she fixed her eyes on Bai Yue Li, quickly sending her a telepathic message. Instantly, high in the air drenched in demonic aura, Bai Yue Li comprehended the message without changing her expression. Her focus remained on Gu Shi Dao Ren as she flipped her palm over. In a flash, ferocious demonic energy surged forth, transforming into a gigantic serpent, swiftly ensnaring Gu Shi Dao Ren. He raised his hands in defense but remained trapped in mid-air by the overpowering serpent. No matter how he struggled, he couldn't break free. Undoubtedly, if Bai Yue Li pressed the advantage, she could've killed him. But with the Dragon Resting Place now sorted, there was no need to linger. Moreover, Ghost Gate reinforcements were nearing, and Central Capital's people were also involved. Neither Bai Yue Li nor Fu Yan intended to engage in a pyrrhic struggle with the Ghost Gate, only for Central Capital's people, including the male lead Fang Yu, to enjoy the spoils. Seizing this gap, Bai Yue Li vanished without hesitation, disappearing into the sky. Simultaneously, Fu Yan transformed into a beam of light, vanishing from the cave's entrance. Watching them leave, Gu Shi Dao Ren's face twisted in rage. Helpless, he could only watch as they came and went with ease. Meanwhile, the male lead Fang Yu successfully dispatched the Ghost Gate’s two Eight Generals. After collecting their storage spirit rings, he wasted no time and hurried towards the cave. Back when he was engaged with Ghost Gate’s Eight Generals, he perceived intense combat sounds from that direction, akin to a battle of immortals. It seemed another faction besides his own had also set their sights on Ghost Gate and the Dragon Resting Place. This realization caused Fang Yu to frown but prompted him to hasten his battles with the Eight Generals, promptly rushing towards the disturbance. Swoosh To avoid revealing his identity too soon, Fang Yu chose to weave through the forest. With the beast tide nearing its end, the risk wasn't as high. However, just as Fang Yu approached the cave, a black mass of demonic energy flashed past in the sky. If not for his intrinsic prowess, he might not have noticed, underscoring the adversary's power exceeding that of an immortal. Locking his gaze on the fleeting demonic aura, Fang Yu's mind instantly grasped the situation with incredulity, "It's from the Demon Realm." Realizing this, Fang Yu's eyes darkened. While he had plans against Ghost Gate, the Demon Realm's intervention implied his efforts might end up futile. Yet harboring a sliver of hope, Fang Yu still glanced towards the cave, only to discover the entire mountain had collapsed. It seemed only Gu Shi Dao Ren was left from Ghost Gate. Shaking his head helplessly, Fang Yu understood he was a step too late; the Dragon Resting Place must’ve already been accessed. So be it. The intel had been coincidentally acquired, and regardless of success, beyond the wasted trip, he hadn’t really lost anything else. With this realization, Fang Yu didn’t hesitate, swiftly turning to leave the area. … Given Bai Yue Li's demonic sovereign identity was exposed, Fu Yan ensured not to reveal her connection to Shuanghua Palace. So, as they departed, Bai Yue Li held her tightly, enveloping them in her demonic energy, swiftly leaving the scene. Beyond the forest, Bai Yue Li tore open a spatial rift, whisking Fu Yan and herself through. In mere moments, they emerged on the outskirts of the Eastern Domain. Thus, there was no chance of encountering Ghost Gate reinforcements. Moreover, the confrontation between Bai Yue Li and Gu Shi Dao Ren might have drawn the Central Capital's attention, likely causing these events to spread within a day. Once out of the Eastern Domain, Fu Yan deployed her spiritual boat, both she and Bai Yue Li casually boarding it, setting course back to Shuanghua Palace in the Southern Domain. Confirming no one followed or noticed them, Fu Yan finally exhaled in relief. Seated on the spiritual boat, she poured herself and Yue Li a cup of tea. “At last, it’s all over smoothly,” Fu Yan murmured, sipping her tea, as if to herself. Across from her, Bai Yue Li also took a sip, nodding gently. Setting her cup down, Fu Yan looked at Bai Yue Li, pausing momentarily before asking candidly, “Senior sister, did you nullify... the blood contract with Fu Juan?” "Mhm," Bai Yue Li responded calmly, not at all surprised. Back when the three of them were in the cave, Bai Yue Li had decided to take on Gu Shi Dao Ren herself, initially leaving with Fu Juan, with Fu Yan following closely behind. At that time, both still shared the blood contract. It wasn’t until Fu Yan and Fu Juan stood by the stone wall in the cave that she belatedly realized she couldn't sense Bai Yue Li's aura from Fu Juan anymore. It became apparent that Bai Yue Li had severed the blood contract. Settling herself, Bai Yue Li explained with a soft laugh, "The true dragon tribe has always been powerful and proud. If Fu Juan entered the Dragon Resting Place with a blood contract to a human cultivator, it probably wouldn't go smoothly for her." Indeed, the proud true dragons would never accept a black dragon bound by a blood contract to a human cultivator. Bai Yue Li had never put much stock in such matters. The blood contract with Fu Juan was an accident at the volcanic crater of the Ming family. With or without it, she believed it wouldn't make much difference in their relationship. Hearing Bai Yue Li’s explanation, Fu Yan suddenly understood. It made perfect sense, considering Bai Yue Li's meticulous nature. Reflecting on this, Fu Yan moved closer, grasping Bai Yue Li’s hand, her eyes sparkling as she gazed at her, filled with gentle affection, "Senior sister, you're the best." To which Bai Yue Li, surprised by the affection, held her hand back, playfully brushing Fu Yan's nose and softly retorting, "And yet, you didn't form a spiritual pet blood contract with the medicine ball, did you?" "That's different," Fu Yan replied. She hadn’t expected Bai Yue Li's sudden gesture, causing her to blink in surprise as a tingle spread across her nose, making her heart flutter involuntarily. Bai Yue Li, having just teased her, withdrew her hand with a soft, amused smile gracing her eyes. As Fu Yan’s gaze drifted to the little medicine ball, noting its slight downturn with Fu Juan's absence, she couldn’t help but bring out a few spiritual herbs, much to the delight of the little ball, whose eyes widened excitedly as it began feasting hungrily. Fu Yan: "..." Drawing her gaze back, Fu Yan chuckled with amusement before turning to Bai Yue Li, saying, "I initially picked it up because it was so cute when it was small. But it sure eats a lot. Without a blood contract, if the day comes when I can't afford to feed it, I'll just send it back." With that, a laugh escaped her lips. Bai Yue Li found herself chuckling at Fu Yan's jest. The small medicine ball: "???" The two of them went on, exchanging lighthearted banter as their spiritual boat crossed the boundary to the Central Capital. For the next few days, neither Fu Yan nor Bai Yue Li delved into cultivation matters, basking in each other’s company instead. Their journey back to the Southern Domain would take about ten days if they traveled leisurely. Fu Yan had anticipated their journey home to Shuanghua Palace to be filled with such warmth, but unexpectedly, they encountered a small interruption along the way. It was twilight, and Fu Yan had deliberately brought Bai Yue Li to sit at the boat’s prow. The evening breeze caressed their surroundings as they admired the sunset, its fiery glow tinting the clouds a vivid red. It must be said, the sunset that day was breathtaking. The sun dipped westward, and the clouds danced across the sky. Fu Yan leaned gently against Bai Yue Li, gazing at the sunset, feeling a serene passage of time. The air around them seemed to slow to a gentle pace. It had been a long time since they'd experienced such peace. Fu Yan thought that after the grand sect meeting in the Central Capital, Shuanghua Palace’s reputation would spread far and wide. Talented individuals would eagerly join their ranks, allowing a deputy palace master to be chosen. With those arrangements in place, Fu Yan could finally settle down, and she and Bai Yue Li could eventually embark on a journey through the lands, an exciting prospect. "What are you thinking about?" Bai Yue Li's voice cut through, sensing Fu Yan's wandering thoughts. Fu Yan shifted slightly, holding Bai Yue Li's arm, smiling as she gazed up, "I was just thinking, at a moment like this, wouldn't Senior Sister want to kiss me?" "Hmm?" Bai Yue Li seemed caught off guard. A soft laugh escaped Fu Yan, and with a sudden movement, she leaned forward, planting a quick kiss on Bai Yue Li's cheek. There, she thought, it's always better to take action oneself. Bai Yue Li: "..." Fu Yan quickly let go, her eyes forming crescents as she grinned mischievously, resembling a cat who'd tasted the cream, prompting Bai Yue Li to merely tap her on the forehead in resignation. The gesture was gentle and indulgent. Amidst their tender exchange, the spiritual boat passed through picturesque landscapes. Time faded until only a sliver of the sunset remained. Bai Yue Li suddenly straightened, eyes wide with urgency. Noticing the change, Fu Yan also sat up, concern lacing her voice, "Senior Sister, what's wrong?" Bai Yue Li's relaxed demeanor vanished, replaced by serious concentration. Something noteworthy seemed to have happened. Only after a few moments, Bai Yue Li furrowed her brow, speaking with an undertone of tension, "Just now, I felt the presence of the Demon Seed's heart." "What?" Fu Yan echoed in surprise, her pupils dilating. Previously, the Demon Seed's heart had vanished from the Demon Realm. Bai Yue Li had searched for it to no avail, and now it reappeared without warning. Both wondered if its disappearance and sudden return heralded the revival of the original Demon Lord. Without hesitating, they quickly stowed the spiritual boat and descended, swiftly making their way to the location where the presence had been felt. In a blink, Fu Yan and Bai Yue Li landed atop a mountain. "It's gone," Bai Yue Li said abruptly. Fu Yan froze, not fully processing, "Hmm?" "The presence of the Demon Seed's heart vanished again," Bai Yue Li explained, her brow remaining furrowed since earlier. Just a moment ago, while upon the spiritual boat, Bai Yue Li had sensed the familiar aura below. But upon descending, it dissipated. However, Bai Yue Li was certain she hadn't been mistaken; it had appeared fleetingly. Hearing this, Fu Yan showed similar surprise but soon recovered, urgently scanning her surroundings for any clues. "Look, over there," Fu Yan pointed to their right. Among the undergrowth under a tree, grass showed signs of disturbance, as if something had rolled there. Getting closer, Fu Yan noticed a few drops of dark red blood on a leaf. As Bai Yue Li joined her, she spotted a few shimmering scales, seemingly fallen from a beast. Clearly, something had recently transpired. Realizing this, Fu Yan and Bai Yue Li exchanged knowing glances and quickly pursued the trail. Within moments, they found the corpse of a gold-swallowing python in the underbrush below. Blood seeped from its eyes and mouth, its death gruesome. The scales Bai Yue Li had found belonged to the python. Its body temperature had yet to fully dissipate, indicating it had died recently. The gold-swallowing python, a large beast, rivaled mid-stage Core Formation cultivators in strength. Ordinarily, cultivators would avoid confrontation. Bai Yue Li placed her hand upon the corpse, eventually turning to Fu Yan with determination, "The creature died from demonic energy piercing its heart and bones." Indeed, Bai Yue Li’s brief detection of the Demon Seed's heart's aura hadn't been a coincidence. With that revelation, Fu Yan’s thoughts scattered, and she quickly harnessed her spiritual senses, enveloping the entire mountain, but found no anomalies. Once more, their trail went cold. Bai Yue Li withdrew her hand, pondering Fu Yan's earlier suspicion that the original Demon Lord might use the Demon Seed's heart to resurrect. "Let’s return," Bai Yue Li said finally, unable to uncover anything further. Fu Yan released a soft sigh, retracted her spiritual senses, and nodded, "Alright." Wasting no more time, they boarded the spiritual boat and continued their journey to the Southern Domain. More than half a month later, Fu Yan and Bai Yue Li finally returned to Shuanghua Palace. Coincidentally, they arrived just in time for the annual palace tournament, though this year it promised to be different. After all, preparations needed to begin for determining which disciples would attend the grand sect gathering in the Central Capital. Over the next three years, these chosen ones would have to undergo rigorous special training. The formidable strength of those prodigious talents from the Central Capital was not to be underestimated. Fu Yan would be quite satisfied if out of ten disciples in the Integration Stage, three could make it to the finals. However, Fu Yan did not heavily involve herself in deciding the disciples' quotas. The elders, being more familiar with the disciples' capabilities, handled that task. Upon returning, Fu Yan did not remain idle. She spent her time sparring with Lu Xiao Wen to gain insights while also planning ways to enhance the skills of the elders in the Nascent Soul Stage. Bai Yue Li didn’t stay long at Shuanghua Palace but spent a couple of months with Fu Yan before returning to the Demon Realm. The events in the Eastern Domain had indeed spread across half of the continent. However, little was known about the Dragon Resting Place, with most assuming there had merely been discord between the Demon Realm and the Ghost Gate, portraying the Demon Queen’s confrontation with Gu Shi Dao Ren as a skirmish. For the righteous sects, this was a welcomed development. Many feared an alliance between the Demon Realm and the Ghost Gate. Such a coalition could indeed plunge the continent into chaos. Fortunately, such an occurrence seemed unlikely for now. No matter the speculations outside, neither Fu Yan nor Bai Yue Li paid heed. Away from the public eye, the two continued to enjoy each other's company, finding joy in their time together. Time flew by for cultivators, and three years passed in the blink of an eye. Recently, excitement surged among cultivators throughout the continent. Notable figures from the four great domains—east, west, south, and north—were arriving in the Central Capital, all for one purpose: The Grand Sect Gathering was about to begin!