While Xiao Hua concentrated on merging the Heavenly Lightnings with the Primordial Heavenly Flames, Xue Yue and the nine Lightning Beasts withdrew from the void, sealing it off to prevent the terrifying fiery energy from incinerating the entire mountain range.
At the same time, Lady Azure entered Xiao Hua's body, beginning her fusion with the other four wills of the Primordial Heavenly Flames. Judging from the process, it would not take as long as before, yet it would still require months before she awakened.
Xue Yue simply gazed at her little brother's back while the nine Lightning Beasts stood watch, guarding the place so none would dare intrude.
After some time, Xue Yue suddenly felt a ripple from Xiao Hua's Mysterious Heaven Ring, even as her eyes remained fixed on him, who was wholly absorbed in his task. She instantly recognized the fluctuation—it came from a communication jade. Moreover, the distinct pulse was that of an emergency signal, causing her expression to tighten in concern.
Retrieving the jade swiftly, she read the message. Her eyes narrowed, and her brows furrowed as the weight of the news sank in.
"What does it say, Sister Xue Yue?"
Even while immersed in his refinement, Xiao Hua's calm voice drifted out. His focus was so profound that he required little effort to sense the jade's fluctuation himself.
Xue Yue lifted her beautiful eyes toward his back and replied softly, her voice heavy with gravity.
"Hall of Souls has attacked Moonlit Chaos Mansion."
"…I see."
Xiao Hua's words were quiet, his tone calm to the extreme.
Yet Xue Yue knew—this very calmness meant he had entered his most terrifying state of mind, focusing his entire being on the task at hand.
Seeing his state, Xue Yue could only shake her head, a faint trace of pity flickering in her eyes—not for the Hall of Souls, but for the Chaos Realm created by the nine Lightning Beasts. She understood well that this realm would inevitably bear the weight of Xiao Hua's wrath once he awakened.
"I only hope the destruction of the Chaos Realm will not be too great…" she murmured softly.
…
A few days before Xiao Hua's awakening, the Moonlit Chaos Mansion enjoyed peace and quiet, untroubled by outsiders. This calm was largely due to the shocking advancement of Ming Cheng, Li Mei, and Xin Yu, who had all stepped into the Dou Sheng class.
Yet another wave of astonishing news soon followed: Mei Ling and Wei Jie had also successfully broken through to Dou Sheng!
How could such news not shake the entire Central Plains?
With their rise, the Moonlit Chaos Mansion now commanded four Dou Sheng elites—a foundation surpassing that of many ancient powers. Were it not for the Hall of Soul's shadow looming over the continent, the Moonlit Chaos Mansion would undoubtedly have stood as the unchallenged overlord of the Central Plains.
As for the Pill Tower's Ancestor, he was a figure who seldom appeared in the world, preferring instead to wander freely in pursuit of his own pleasures. Other than a handful of old monsters from older generation, almost no one in the Central Plains even knew of his existence.
Had they known of him, they would have ranked the Moonlit Chaos Mansion as third, with the Pill Tower second.
Regardless, neither the old forces nor the newly risen ones could believe that such a young faction had already grown into a force that shook the entire Central Plains. In but a handful of years since its founding, the Moonlit Chaos Mansion had risen from obscurity to prominence—no longer a fledgling, but a mighty power none dared to belittle.
Thus, the Moonlit Chaos Mansion firmly established itself as the second greatest force in the Central Plains, surpassed only by the hidden ancient factions.
Within the Chaos Realm, countless floating islands of varying size drift in the void, each sustained by faint spatial fluctuations that kept them aloft, suspended in the endless skies.
Among them, eight islands stand above the rest in both size and significance. Five house the great halls where disciples cultivate and reside. The remaining four are reserved for the Mansion Palace, the Spiritual Medicinal Field, Mansion Plaza and the Mansion Master's Abode.
One such island is a vast stretch of water, dominated by an azure lake so deep it seems to mirror not only the heavens above but the very soul of those who gaze into it. Upon its surface, lotus blossoms drift, radiating a tranquil aura that soothes even the most restless spirit. Rising gracefully from the heart of this lake stands a magnificent hall, its presence exuding serenity and calm.
This place is known as the Tranquil Oceanic Island, where Xin Yu's hall—the Serene Lake Hall—is located.
Behind the hall, several meters away, a bamboo forest rose straight from the waters, its emerald stalks swaying gently with the ripples. At the very heart of the lake, upon a vast lily pad, a serene and graceful figure sat cross-legged, eyes closed in deep cultivation.
Whoosh—!
Her brows lifted ever so slightly as her senses stirred. Someone was approaching at astonishing speed. Recognizing the familiar aura, she did not move, merely keeping her eyes shut, calmly awaiting their arrival.
"Teacher! We've received troubling news from the outside!"
A moment later, a beautiful figure descended swiftly, her voice edged with alarm. She was Shui Lanxin, the beloved disciple Xin Yu had taken under her wing even before the founding of the Moonlit Chaos Mansion.
Hearing the alarm in her beloved disciple's tone, Xin Yu slowly opened her eyes, her gaze falling upon her.
Seeing that she had captured her teacher's attention, Shui Lanxin continued with grave expression. "The Hall of Souls is advancing toward us with a group of powerful experts. At most, they will arrive in two days!"
A chilling glint flickered deep within Xin Yu's eyes, sharp as a blade. "Have you informed your Martial Uncles and Martial Aunts?"
"Brother Lan Haoran and the others have already rushed to pass the news to them," Shui Lanxin answered swiftly.
"Good. Lanxin, recall all disciples who have gone out, and summon them back to the Moonlit Chaos Mansion. Announce that from this moment, the Mansion enters high alert. No one is to relax until I give the word."
Xin Yu knew well that once Ming Cheng received this report, orders would soon follow. Thus, she took the initiative to ensure preparations moved swiftly, wasting not a single breath.
"Understood, Teacher!" Shui Lanxin bowed, then turned sharply, her figure vanishing in a streak of light as she sped off to relay the command.
Watching her disciple depart, Xin Yu rose to her feet. Her graceful form flickered, vanishing from the lake's center as she shot toward the Mansion Plaza—aware that Ming Cheng would summon everyone soon.
…
The Mansion Palace stood as the seat of the Mansion Master's throne—a place where weighty discussions were held and decisive matters settled between the Mansion Master, the Hall Masters, and the high-ranking elders.
Though rarely used since its creation, today the palace was summoned to life, for a matter of great consequence demanded its use.
Within the vast hall, beneath the towering throne at its far end—empty for now—heated discussions stirred among Ming Cheng, Li Mei, Xin Yu, Wei Jie, Mei Ling, and the gathered elders.
"They truly intend to attack, then…" Wei Jie's voice carried a chilling edge.
"They have lost many experts," Li Mei replied softly, her eyes closed, her tone calm yet unyielding. "From high-ranking Tianzuns to even their vice-chief, whose strength was sealed. With the Hall of Soul's character, such a loss is something they could never swallow."
Mei Ling exhaled lightly, her tone tinged with resignation. "If not for the heavy casualties they suffered, they might have already struck at us long ago…"
"However, that also means the force coming against us is far stronger than before. It seems our investigation are true—that one of the Eight Ancient Clans stands behind the Hall of Souls…"
Xin Yu's fingers brushed her chin, her gaze sharpening as a cold glint flashed within her eyes. She recalled the time when Xun Er had spoken of this matter. Back then, she believed their connection to be shallow at best—yet reality proved otherwise.
It was now clear. The founder of the Hall of Souls was none other than the Hun Clan, using this faction as a hidden blade to pursue their own goals—goals no one could yet discern.
The others nodded faintly, solemn agreement reflected in their expressions. After all, the Hall of Souls had lost their First Tianzun, a Dou Sheng powerhouse, and even had their vice-chief's strength forcibly sealed. Losses of such magnitude would cripple most factions for decades.
Yet, in barely two years, they had already replenished their strength and were prepared to launch a full campaign.
This could only mean one thing—the Hall of Souls possessed an unimaginably terrifying backing. It did not take much thought to realize the truth: only an ancient clan could restore such power in so short a time. And among them, the most likely culprit was the Hun Clan.
"Regardless, thanks to Xin Yu's swift command, all disciples and elders outside have been recalled. From this moment, we shall remain on high alert and prepare for the coming battle against the Hall of Souls." Ming Cheng's deep voice resounded through the hall, steering the meeting back to its core matter.
"The reinforcements from the Pill Tower and Burning Flame Valley will arrive slightly late due to the Hall of Souls' sudden movements. But if we cannot even protect our own mansion before they come, then such aid will be meaningless."
Li Mei, Xin Yu, Wei Jie, and Mei Ling did not argue. They simply nodded in agreement. The gathered elders, too, remained silent—yet fierce determination surfaced upon their faces.
No matter the strength of the Hall of Souls, none among them harbored fear. Each elder understood the inevitable clash between the Hall of Souls and the Moonlit Chaos Mansion. Still, they had chosen this faction—whether for the sake of shelter or the pursuit of greater strength—and in return, they had been granted tremendous opportunities.
Those who once joined as mere Dou Zong had already risen to the rank of Dou Zun. Even those at the peak of Dou Zun had now stepped into the Ban Sheng realm. Having advanced so far under the mansion's banner, how could they abandon it now?
Yet, their unshaken resolve stemmed from more than gratitude or pride. A deeper reason silenced fear from their hearts.
"Hall Masters," one elder finally spoke, his voice carrying both reverence and hope, "is it true that the Mansion Master is about to emerge from seclusion?"
This was the very reason why none of them felt fear toward the Hall of Souls' campaign to eradicate their mansion.
"I have personally confirmed it. He is about to emerge from his retreat. Judging from the fluctuations, I believe he has already surpassed everyone present." Ming Cheng spoke firmly, without hesitation.
At his words, Li Mei, Xin Yu, Mei Ling, and Wei Jie only smiled faintly. They knew it was not Ming Cheng who had confirmed such news, but rather that Lady Azure herself had delivered word—Xiao Hua was indeed about to return.
The elders, however, could not restrain their expressions. Their faces shifted between disbelief and awe, their reactions almost comical. Yet such a response was only natural—for Ming Cheng's words implied that Xiao Hua had stepped into the realm of a Dou Sheng elite, surpassing even the strength of the Hall Masters.
'Could it be true? Did Hall Master Ming Cheng truly mean it when he once said the Mansion Master's Qi Method is so unique that, upon breaking through beyond peak Dou Zong, he would instantly step into peak Dou Sheng?'
The elders exchanged glances, shock and doubt flickering in their eyes. They had heard such claims before, but it was simply too outrageous to accept. Yet after spending time with the Hall Masters, they understood that none of them would utter such words in jest, nor attempt to lighten the current heaviness with false hope.
Even so, their Mansion Master's abnormalities were something they had long been aware of. From his achievements to his unfathomable strength, Xiao Hua had never been a man bound by the limits of common sense.
Perhaps it was merely something they forced themselves to believe, yet despite the absurdity of such words, they chose to accept them.
"Since this matter has been settled, there is no need to panic. Remain vigilant and respond swiftly to any sudden changes." Li Mei concluded the meeting, her calm gaze sweeping across everyone present.
Everyone nodded before dispersing, each preparing for the looming war against the Hall of Souls.
…
Two days later, Moonlit Chaos Mansion was placed under the highest state of vigilance, for today was the day the Hall of Souls was expected to arrive.
Yet, neither the disciples nor the elders displayed shock or fear before others. From the very beginning, they had known this day would come. The Hall of Souls had suffered grievous losses at the hands of their Mansion Master and the Hall Masters—such humiliation would never be allowed to pass unanswered. Thus, the disciples devoted themselves to relentless training, readying both body and spirit for this inevitable clash.
The news that the experts of the Hall of Souls were converging on Moonlit Chaos Mansion had already spread across the lands. Though the Hall of Souls had moved with utmost secrecy, their presence was still detected by those with keen perception, and the word was swiftly carried abroad.
Within two days, countless figures had rushed toward the Moonlit Chaos Mansion, eager to witness what was to unfold.
All understood that the enmity between the Hall of Souls and Moonlit Chaos Mansion had reached a point of no return. Their shame and losses had turned to bitter hatred—this confrontation was destined.
What surprised many, however, was the manner in which the Hall of Souls moved. Despite their status as one of the most formidable factions of the Central Plains, they advanced in silence, concealing their movements until they drew dangerously close.
Such secrecy from so domineering a power only heightened the tension. For the experts gathering at the Moonlit Chaos Mansion, it was certain—this would be a battle too spectacular to miss.
For that very reason, countless experts lingered in the distant skies beyond the Brightmoon Mountain Range.
Moonlit Chaos Mansion, however, held no interest in driving away those who had come merely to spectate. Whether they were there to witness the rise or fall of the Mansion mattered little. The disciples and elders simply gathered upon the Mansion Plaza Island, focusing wholly on sharpening their condition to its peak.
If others wished to watch, then let them watch. Such things were beneath their concern.
As they steadied their breath, the Chaos Realm suddenly quaked with violent tremors. A chilling cry, dripping with murderous intent, resounded across the heavens like a thunderclap.
"Moonlit Chaos Mansion, have you enjoyed your fleeting days of peace? Today, this old man shall drown this place in blood!"
Bang!
The disciples and elders instantly opened their eyes and rose to their feet. Their gazes turned skyward, sharp and unyielding, as vast and mighty auras erupted from their bodies. Each one stood ready—prepared to fight to the death for the sake of their new home!
Shua—!
In the next instant, numerous spatial ripples surged before the Mansion Plaza Island. One after another, figures stepped forth from the distortions, their gazes locking onto the distant sky with grave intensity.
At the forefront stood Ming Cheng, Wei Jie, Li Mei, Xin Yu, and Mei Ling. Behind them gathered the high-ranking elders, fighting intent burning openly in their eyes.
"There are quite a few powerful auras…" Xin Yu's eyes narrowed, solemness appearing on her serene, beautiful face. "This time, it seems the Hall of Souls truly intends to wash our Moonlit Chaos Mansion in blood, to serve as a warning to others."
"Whether it will be a warning or the joke of the century, however… remains to be seen," Wei Jie chuckled lightly, his tone deliberately easing the tension.
"Naturally, it will be the latter." Mei Ling's proud voice followed, her lips curved with confidence. "Once our little brother emerges, I wish to see how these people flee with their tails tucked between their legs!"
Their voices were far from subtle; they intentionally allowed every disciple and elder to hear them.
Ming Cheng, Li Mei, and Xin Yu could only shake their heads with faint, bitter smiles. Even the elders and disciples could not help but let out dry chuckles. Clearly, their antics brought a touch of amusement, easing the tension that had been coiled in everyone's hearts.
Xin Yu stepped forward, her jade hand forming a swift seal. The Lunar Radiance Myriad-Star Formation rippled faintly, and the surrounding space distorted. In the next moment, the situation outside was clearly revealed before everyone's eyes.
As the scene unfolded, every gaze within the formation sharpened. Beyond the Brightmoon Mountain Range, the heavens were shrouded in rolling black fog, spreading endlessly across the sky.
Nearly a hundred figures stood upon that black mist, their silhouettes looming like specters. Cold, oppressive eyes pierced through the formation, locking onto Ming Cheng and the others within.
"This is quite a lineup…" Ming Cheng muttered, his eyes narrowing like blades as he studied the gathering.
"At the front stands the Chief of the Hall of Souls, and beside him, their Vice Chief. If I recall correctly… the Chief's name is Hun Mie Sheng."
Li Mei's gaze swept across the enemy ranks, lingering briefly on the two at the front. She had seen their portraits before—sketched after their sudden appearance at Lightning Mountain, when they attempted to capture Xiao Hua. Their features matched without mistake.
"The most terrifying ones," Xin Yu added, her voice low and solemn, "are the two elders standing beside the Chief. Those men… are at least 4-Star Dou Sheng or higher."
Her gaze swept toward the two old figures flanking Hun Mie Sheng. One was a gray-robed elder with long, pitch-black brows that drooped past his eyes; the other, a withered figure leaning upon a wooden staff, his expression unreadable yet carrying an oppressive weight.
Ming Cheng's eyes narrowed, his expression hardening. A grave light flickered within his gaze as he sensed the boundless strength radiating from the two. Drawing in a deep breath, he glanced at Li Mei and the others before voicing his decision.
"I'll deal with the one holding the walking stick. Li Mei, you take the gray-robed elder. Xin Yu, the Hall of Souls' chief will be yours. Wei Jie and Mei Ling, you handle the Vice Chief and that other Dou Sheng expert. As for the rest—the Elders will restrain the Ban Shengs and Dou Zuns."
No one objected. Naturally, the disciples and elders knew their opponents were far weaker than the ones Ming Cheng and the others would face. Still, their hearts clenched tight at the thought of those ancient monsters—the Chief of the Hall of Souls, foremost among them.
"Since that is settled, I'll open the formation." Xin Yu's voice was cold as frost. "I'll be damned before I let these bastards shatter the formation left by Lady Xue Yue—my master and teacher, even if she didn't acknowledge it."
Ming Cheng and the others nodded solemnly. He then turned, his deep voice reverberating across the disciples and elders.
"Show them—the Moonlit Chaos Mansion is no easy prey! Fight to your last breath! Show no mercy! Slaughter every intruder!"
"Fight to the last breath! No mercy for the invaders! Slaughter the Hall of Souls!"
In that instant, a thunderous eruption shook the mansion. Majestic Dou Qi burst forth like a tidal wave as disciples and elders released their full strength. Terrifying auras swept in all directions, carrying murderous intent so dense it seemed to weigh upon the heavens.
For many disciples, their talents had once been mediocre, overshadowed in their former factions. But since joining the Moonlit Chaos Mansion, nurtured by its resources, their potential had flourished, transforming them into geniuses in their own right—something they had never dared to dream of.
How could they now allow this place, their new home, to be trampled?
Even if their bodies were torn apart, even if their souls scattered, they would not retreat. If they were to fall, then they would drag an enemy of the Hall of Souls down to hell with them.
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