Yuan's Ascension

Chapter 332: Invitations From All Sides

True Intent perception experience of my choice? Wu Yuan's brow furrowed in surprise.

What was that?

But soon, Wu Yuan found a comprehensive explanation in his immortal path information interface, which appeared automatically after the Tower Spirit's voice had spoken.

He swiftly skimmed the contents.

The Seven Star Luminaries Tower is where innumerable talents from the Immortal Continent contend with each other. Clearing level 40 designates one as a true prodigy. Completing level 50 distinguishes one as a top-tier genius. But those who conquer level 60 are hailed as peerless prodigies, a rarity appearing less than once every 10,000 years?

Only geniuses of such caliber are deemed eligible to receive the immortal realm's reward and undergo a one-time True Intent perception experience. The details are as follows...

As Wu Yuan read through the information, he silently memorized it.

Such opportunities exist within the Redmoon Immortal Realm? No wonder prodigies from all factions are willing to challenge the tower. Wu Yuan mused inwardly.

It never crossed his mind that such an opportunity was possible. The marvels of the voidrealm exceeded his expectations.

For every ten levels cleared starting from level 40, each challenger is granted a one-time opportunity? Wu Yuan nodded in understanding.

Such chances were extremely hard to come by. According to the records of the one-star tower, the highest level cleared in the Redmoon Immortal Continent was just slightly above level 60.

To reach level 60 of the one-star tower is to be a peerless prodigy seldom born in 10,000 years across the entire immortal continent. Wu Yuan pondered silently. But, such a peerless prodigy only receives three opportunities for comprehension.

This was a gift from the Redmoon Immortal Realm to top-tier prodigies challenging the tower. Yet, this pertained solely to the one-star tower. Whether the two-star tower, three-star tower, or beyond granted similar rewards remained a mystery to Wu Yuan.

However, from the Redmoon Immortal Realm’s view, among those under 100 years old in the entire Immortal Continent, I am considered a prodigy? Wu Yuan wondered.

He was still far from being a peerless prodigy, having only cleared level 40, while the top-tier prodigies in the other spacetime planes could potentially reach level 70 or even 80.

Furthermore, given that this Seven Star Luminaries Tower is designed to encompass 100 levels, theoretically, there ought to be peerless prodigies capable of completing them all. Wu Yuan contemplated inwardly.

Even if they didn't complete all 100 levels, they should be able to come close. Otherwise, why set 100 levels of difficulty?

Even if I cannot measure up to the top-tier prodigies of eons past, I will strive to approach their level as far as possible. Wu Yuan vowed to himself.

In the Middle Land, he undoubtedly reigned as the foremost prodigy, unrivaled by those of his age. However, heaven and earth was vast. He already fell short of the top-tier of prodigies in the Redmoon Immortal Continent, let alone the immense Silvermist Immortal Nation, or the entirety of the macrocosm.

Nevertheless, I am only 37 years old. When I return to challenge the tower in my 80s or 90s, who's to say whether I’ll be able to shatter these records? Wu Yuan's gaze swept across the air.

The list of records lay in the corner.

"I wish to leave the one-star tower," Wu Yuan said.

He did not continue to challenge the next level. Though he had gleaned some insights from the non-stop series of battles, he needed time to digest them. All breakthroughs required time.

While it was possible for one’s strength to undergo a transformation while in battle, such occurrences were exceedingly rare.

To employ the Thousand Swords Array, my soul expended a tremendous amount of energy. Even if I were to battle the level 40 guardian once more, there is no guarantee that I can defeat him a second time. Wu Yuan understood his current condition well.

The Thousand Swords Array was his ace in the hole. The Redmoon Immortal Realm could restore his virtual mana and physical state, but it lacked the ability to alleviate the fatigue of Wu Yuan's soul.

Level 40 is enough for now; there is always the option to revisit the tower in the future. Wu Yuan decided.

...

The aquatic banquet hall on Southmoon Island was completely silent.

Numerous Amethyst Cradle Reverends from various sects and families were left astounded when Wu Yuan employed the Thousand Swords Array to defeat the guardian.

While Wu Yuan had breezed through more than 30 levels with relative ease, no one could definitively assert his success at level 40.

Similar to the qualitative shift in difficulty from level 19 to level 20, the leap from level 39 to 40 was a huge hurdle.

Those who conquered it were hailed as prodigies, while those who failed only had decent talent.

"Li Xia is amazing."

"Conquering level 40 of the one-star tower indicates he has the potential to be a Divided Soul Earth Immortal, worthy of a core position in any sect."

"His Dao comprehension may not have reached an extremely high level, but his soul is remarkably resilient."

"When I attempted the one-star tower in my youth, I was never able to pass level 40." The Amethyst Cradle Reverends murmured among themselves.

In their younger days, they too had challenged the one-star tower, yet the majority were unable to complete level 40. The number of them who passed level 40 could be counted on both hands.

He actually conquered level 40? Zhuo Haiyue's eyes betrayed a flicker of surprise. I had my doubts about his success.

It was only upon witnessing Wu Yuan unleash the Thousand Swords Array that Zhuo Haiyue was reassured of his victory.

From what Old Yu says, Wu Yuan's soul aura appears rather youthful, likely not exceeding 50 years of age. Zhuo Haiyue pondered. This suggests room for further growth, and he could potentially conquer level 50 and beyond in the future!

Zhuo Haiyue realized she had stumbled upon a true gem.

Progressing beyond level 40 and completing level 50 were two distinct concepts.

With this in mind, Zhuo Haiyue's gaze settled on Gu Sixing, who stood aloof nearby. She transmitted her thoughts over, "Big Brother Gu, I will be troubling you once more."

"Not at all, it's a mutually beneficial arrangement; this Li Xia shows promise. Nurture him well, and he may become your trusted aide," Gu Sixing's words resonated in Zhuo Haiyue's mind.

His tone was warm and soothing, like the way an elder brother spoke to his younger sister.

...

A streak of dazzling light flashed through the air, and Wu Yuan materialized in the banquet hall with a flourish.

Subrealms like the Seven Towers World were considered special spaces within the Redmoon Immortal Realm. Upon exiting these subrealms, individuals would find themselves back at the point of entry.

Everyone is observing me? The moment Wu Yuan's feet touched the ground, he sensed the intense scrutiny from all angles. Naturally, he knew why this was the case.

As per the Redmoon Immortal Realm's description of the Seven Star Luminaries Tower, conquering level 40 of the one-star tower symbolized the potential to reach the Divided Soul phase, a feat that left many awestruck.

Divided Soul cultivators, also referred to as Earth Immortals, were super powerhouses in the Redmoon Immortal Continent. Their longevity alone rivaled that of Dharma Body powerhouses, both boasting lifespans that spanned a staggering 90,000 years. It was an incomprehensible length of time!

Though the hundreds of Amethyst Cradle Reverends present were all elites of their factions, 99% of them would struggle to become Divided Soul Earth Immortal.

"Your Highness Haiyue, I did not fail my duty. I have successfully completed level 40," Wu Yuan gave a slight bow.

"Excellent," Zhuo Haiyue remarked with a smile, her gaze shifting to Gu Sixing. Her tone was cool and composed. "Gu Sixing, do you have anything to say?"

Gu Sixing rose slowly to his feet. "Daoist Li Xia, my previous behavior was uncalled for. I ask for your forgiveness," Gu Sixing stated without a hint of resentment or anger.

Wu Yuan glanced at Gu Sixing. This man was someone who knew when to pull back, he didn’t just stomp off in a fit of rage.

"I heard that you have yet to join a sect," Gu Sixing continued with a subtle smile. "Would you consider joining the Gu Family as an honored guest? We offer generous benefits and preferential treatment."

A flicker of surprise danced in Wu Yuan's eyes.

The Gu Family, a prince-rank family, wielded influence comparable to that of a first-rate sect, if not greater. After all, there were only four prince-rank families in the entire immortal continent.

"Thank you for the offer, Your Highness, but I have no intentions of affiliating with the Gu Family at present," Wu Yuan responded promptly.

After today's events, he knew that his loyalties lay with Zhuo Haiyue whether he liked it or not. When asked to choose sides, he could not afford to waver.

"Very well. I wish you luck in finding a sect that suits your preferences," Gu Sixing replied amiably, redirecting his gaze to Zhuo Haiyue. "Haiyue, I will transfer the 30 million catties of ethercrystal to you at a later time."

With that, Gu Sixing departed from the banquet hall in a single stride, his golden jiaolong chariot appearing and flying into the distance. It seemed as though he had no desire to continue staying there and losing face.

"The irritating fellow has finally left," Zhuo Haiyue announced, her gaze sweeping across the gathering of Amethyst Cradle Reverends as a smile graced her lips. "Let us all raise our wine cups in honor of Daoist Li Xia."

"Haha, to Daoist Li Xia," the Reverends chimed in unison.

"With Daoist Li Xia's talent, it is certain that he will achieve immortality and enjoy true longevity.”

“Congratulations, Daoist Li Xia.” As the gathering made a toast to Li Xia, none dared reply to Zhuo Haiyue's subtle dig at Gu Sixing. Even if they harbored any dislike towards Gu Sixing, none would openly criticize him.

However, their admiration for Wu Yuan only grew stronger. Initially, he was relying solely on Zhuo Haiyue's influence, thus many Amethyst Cradle Reverends looked down on him.

But after successfully completing level 40 of the one-star tower, Wu Yuan's own talent shone through, winning their respect.

Unbeknownst to those gathered here, Wu Yuan was only 37 years old. Furthermore, he possessed a third-degree immortal root and had cultivated nine lifebound flying swords.

Such remarkable qi refining talent would surely leave them flabbergasted had they known.

Just as the realm master said, although his qi refining self’s talent was slightly weaker than that of his body refiner self, it was still enough to be considered a prodigy in the vast macrocosm.

Amidst the festive atmosphere filled with clinking wine cups, the black-armored Beibo Tao approached Wu Yuan excitedly. "Brother Li Xia is truly remarkable. Your talent far surpasses mine."

Wu Yuan offered a faint smile. "How can I help you, Daoist Beibo?"

Beibo Tao replied with a chuckle, "I'll be direct, Brother Li Xia. Rumor has it that you have yet to align yourself with any sect. Would you consider joining our Great Yan Immortal Sect? With your potential, I believe you’ll not only be a hereditary disciple of the sect, but there's a high chance an immortal would accept you as a disciple."

The notion sparked a flicker of interest in Wu Yuan's mind. An immortal's disciple? It was a rare opportunity indeed.

Wu Yuan understood that only those who reached the Archimmortal level were true immortals, but achieving that was extremely difficult.

Typically, those addressed as ‘immortal' referred to Divided Soul Earth Immortals or Tribulation High Immortals within the vast immortal continent. As for the Great Yan Immortal Sect, its reputation preceded it as a powerful sect. However, Wu Yuan had yet to consider his options.

Suddenly, a seductive lady clad in red robes interjected with a laugh, "Brother Beibo, your Great Yan Immortal Sect is indeed strong, ranking top five in the Immortal Continent. However, it’s famous for its arrays, while Li Xia is a sword cultivator. Are there any Divided Soul Sword Immortals in your sect?"

Beibo Tao's countenance shifted slightly. While formidable in its own right, the Great Yan Immortal Sect lagged behind in swordsmanship among the first-rate sects.

"Daoist Li Xia," a robust figure stepped forward, exuding confidence, "Would you consider joining our Thousand Origins Sword Sect? We are renowned as one of the top three sects across the immortal continent."

"Daoist Li Xia, I..." Another cultivator quickly stepped forward.

These Amethyst Cradle Reverends quickly approached Wu Yuan, each offering better conditions than the last.

Overwhelmed by the slew of invitations, Wu Yuan finally understood what Zhuo Haiyue meant by establishing a reputation. Once he made a name for himself and garnered recognition and acclaim, it would no longer be a case of a sect selecting him, but rather him selecting a sect.

Wu Yuan clearly understood that while these Amethyst Cradle Reverends were core members of various factions, they were still considered disciples of the younger generation. They didn't truly have the power to dictate the benefits of joining their sect.

However, they were all knowledgeable and could roughly determine what conditions their sect would offer based on the talent he had showcased. For these Amethyst Cradle Reverends, successfully inviting a prodigy like Wu Yuan to join their sect was equivalent to making a significant contribution. Naturally, they would be rewarded for their efforts.

Wu Yuan graciously deflected each offer without commitment.

"Everyone," Zhuo Haiyue’s cold voice rang out, bringing the noisy banquet hall to a hushed standstill.

All eyes shifted towards Zhuo Haiyue.

"Daoist Li Xia has indeed expressed his desire to join a sect."

She continued with a light tone, "For the foreseeable future, he shall be residing within the Zhuo residence in Rising Dragon City. Should your sect wish to extend an invitation, they are welcome to visit him in Rising Dragon City."