154: Chapter 154 The Heavenly Mystery Pavilion and the "Heavenly Ranking"

"Tianji Tower," much like "Wanbao Tower," is a massive commercial organization that spans the entire "Donghua Immortal Domain" and even regions beyond.

However, unlike "Wanbao Tower," which primarily deals in physical resources such as Heaven And Earth Treasure, Medicinal Pill, Magic Treasure, and Cultivation Technique and Secret Manual, the core business of "Tianji Tower" is "intelligence."

It is claimed that as long as you can pay the price, you can purchase any information you wish to know here.

From the secret past of a certain Cultivator to the core Legacy of a certain Sect, from a detailed map of a certain Secret Realm to the cultivation insights of a certain powerful existence, or even some taboo secrets unknown to outsiders—as long as the offer is sufficient, you can find clues here.

Of course, the premise is that you can afford the price, and furthermore, "Tianji Tower" takes no responsibility for the authenticity of the information—they only sell information, not guarantees of truth.

However, for "Tianji Tower" to maintain a foothold in the Immortal Realm, credibility is its Foundation; most of the time, the intelligence it provides is quite reliable.

Lin Wan came here with two main objectives.

First, he wanted to inquire about clues regarding the fragments of the "samsara mirror" and the source of "the end."

This is crucial, as it relates to the perfection of his "Chaos Reincarnation Divine Kingdom" and the ultimate goal of his own Dao.

Second, he wanted to learn more about the deeper information regarding the "Ascension Conference" within the Immortal Realm, such as the strength of previous winners, which factions and geniuses require attention, and whether there are any hidden rules behind the Assembly.

This would help him better prepare for the Assembly.

Stepping into "Tianji Tower," an atmosphere completely different from "Wanbao Tower" rushed to meet him.

There was no shimmering treasure light, no fragrant scent of Medicinal Pill; instead, it was replaced by an aura of tranquility and mystery, carrying a faint scent of ink and old scrolls.

The layout inside the building was equally grand but much more profound.

The first floor was a wide hall with somewhat dim lighting.

The surrounding walls were lined with massive bookshelves reaching the ceiling, densely packed with Jade Slip, animal skin scrolls, bamboo slips, and even some strange crystals.

In the center of the hall were independent quiet rooms separated by translucent light screens, where "Tianji Envoys" wearing gray robes were whispering with guests, conducting intelligence transactions.

The passing Cultivators were mostly in a hurry, their auras restrained, their gazes vigilant, keeping a distance from one another.

It was clear that they were all people who did not wish to expose their identities while coming to purchase sensitive intelligence.

As soon as Lin Wan entered, an elderly man also wearing a gray robe, with a smiling face but sharp eyes, walked up to greet him.

The old man's cultivation level was not apparent, but Lin Wan could vaguely sense that this person was definitely not simple; his Divine Soul fluctuations were obscure and deep, clearly someone skilled in concealment and investigation.

"This customer, is this your first time at Tianji Tower?" The gray-robed old man's smile was warm, and his voice was low, as if it carried a certain power to soothe the heart.

"Correct." Lin Wan nodded without hiding it.

"This old man is the first-floor deacon here, surnamed Yu; you may address me as Elder Yu." Elder Yu smiled and said, "I wonder which aspect of intelligence you wish to purchase? Our tower's intelligence is categorized, and the prices vary.

Basic intelligence is inexpensive.

However, for matters involving secrets, rumors, specific individuals, or profound Legacies, the price is much more expensive, and may even... require bartering or exchanging with special conditions."

"I wish to inquire about two things." Lin Wan went straight to the point.

"First, regarding the fragments of the 'samsara mirror,' or powerful relics and Secret Realm clues related to 'Reincarnation.'

Second, regarding internal intelligence on this 'Ascension Conference,' the more detailed the better, especially regarding the geniuses who might appear and require attention, and whether there are any unknown rules or secrets behind the Assembly."

Upon hearing the three words "samsara mirror," a barely perceptible flash of light appeared in Elder Yu's eyes, but he quickly returned to calmness, his smile unchanged.

As for the intelligence regarding the "Ascension Conference," he did not seem surprised; after all, with the Ascension Conference approaching, people coming to purchase relevant intelligence were endless.

"Customer, please follow me, let us discuss in detail." Elder Yu made a gesture of invitation, leading Lin Wan to an unoccupied quiet room in the corner of the hall.

The quiet room was not large, containing only a jade table and two prayer mats.

After the two sat down, Elder Yu waved his hand to set up a sound-insulating Restriction before speaking.

"The two things you wish to inquire about are of high value." Elder Yu stroked his beard and said slowly, "Especially the first one, the 'samsara mirror'... This object involves a great deal; even if it is just a fragment, it is not something ordinary.

Relevant clues belong to 'Grade A' confidentiality in our tower, and the price... I fear it cannot be measured by ordinary Immortal Crystal."

"Grade A confidentiality?" Lin Wan raised an eyebrow. "What price is required?"

"That depends on what you can provide." Elder Yu looked at Lin Wan with deep eyes.

"Our tower purchases intelligence as well as sells it.

If you can provide secrets of equal value that our tower has not yet recorded, or... barter.

For example, certain special divine Materials, Cultivation Technique, or... a promise."

"A promise?" Lin Wan's heart stirred.

"Correct." Elder Yu nodded.

"For example, if you can achieve a top ten, or even top three ranking in the Ascension Conference, you will surely be a prominent figure in our Donghua Immortal Domain in the future.

Our tower can inform you of part of the clues regarding the 'samsara mirror' in advance, but it requires your promise to do one thing for our tower at some point in the future, or to provide three instances of assistance within your capability.

The specific matter can be discussed then.

Of course, you may also refuse; our tower will not force you, but the intelligence cannot be provided."

Is this an attempt to invest in advance and bind a potential stock? Lin Wan understood in his heart.

Tianji Tower was truly worthy of being in the intelligence business, with a long-term perspective, knowing how to invest when potential figures had not yet risen.

"And what about the intelligence on the Ascension Conference?" Lin Wan asked, neither confirming nor denying.

"Intelligence on the Ascension Conference belongs to 'Grade B' and can be purchased with Immortal Crystal." Elder Yu said.

"Our tower has detailed 'Ascension Conference Genius Roster,' 'Analysis of Previous Winners,' 'Detailed Explanation of the Secret Realm 'Myriad Races Battlefield',' 'List of Potential Targets for Various Factions,' etc., and can charge different fees based on the level of detail.

The most detailed one contains detailed information on all known Genius Cultivators of this Assembly who have the strength to break into the top one hundred or even the top ten, including their Cultivation Technique characteristics, combat power assessment, backing factions, etc., as well as some hidden rules, dangerous areas, and potential special Opportunity in the 'Myriad Races Battlefield' Secret Realm.

The price is... five thousand Medium Grade Immortal Crystal."

Five thousand Medium Grade Immortal Crystal? The corners of Lin Wan's mouth twitched slightly.

This price was almost equivalent to all the wagers he had just risked his life to win on the Fighting Platform.

This Tianji Tower was truly outrageously expensive.

No wonder the people who came here all looked mysterious and unwilling to stay long; I fear it was not just because they were afraid of exposing their identities, but also because they felt the pain of the Immortal Crystal.

However, this intelligence was indeed what he urgently needed.

Know yourself and know your enemy, and you will never be defeated.

He did not want to capsize in the gutter at the Assembly because of insufficient information.

"I want the most detailed copy of the intelligence on the Ascension Conference." Lin Wan pondered for a moment and then made his decision.

Immortal Crystal could be earned again if lost, but there was only one chance for the Ascension Conference, and he must seize it.

"A wise choice." Elder Yu's smile broadened.

He took out a pitch-black Jade Slip with complex silver patterns from his sleeve and placed it on the jade table.

"This Jade Slip records the most detailed intelligence our tower has collected regarding this Ascension Conference.

The intelligence will be continuously updated until three days before the start of the Assembly.

You may come to our tower at any time with this Jade Slip to obtain the latest supplementary information for free."

Lin Wan took the Jade Slip and probed it slightly with his Divine Sense, discovering that the Jade Slip had a Restriction set on it; he could only view part of the table of contents and introduction, unable to see the specific content.

He nodded and placed the Storage Pouch containing the five thousand Medium Grade Immortal Crystal, which he had won from the Fighting Platform, onto the jade table.

Elder Yu swept it with his Divine Sense, confirmed the amount was correct, and put away the Storage Pouch with a beaming smile, while simultaneously unlocking part of the Restriction on the Jade Slip.

"Customer, you may view it now.

However, this Jade Slip can only be viewed by you alone, and after viewing, it will automatically be destroyed within three days.

Please keep it safe and memorize it as soon as possible."

Lin Wan nodded, put the Jade Slip into his bosom, and did not view it on the spot.

He looked at Elder Yu and asked, "Then, regarding the clues about the 'samsara mirror'..."

"This matter is of great importance." Elder Yu's expression became solemn.

"My authority is limited, and I cannot decide.

I need to consult the Tower Master.

Customer, please wait here for a moment; I will return shortly."

With that, Elder Yu stood up and left the quiet room.

Lin Wan was not in a hurry; he sat quietly waiting while splitting a wisp of his Divine Sense to begin viewing the information in that black Jade Slip.

Inside the Jade Slip, the information was as vast as a sea, categorized and extremely detailed.

The first thing that caught his eye was the detailed rules of this Ascension Conference, which were roughly the same as the previously purchased "Detailed Explanation of the Ascension Conference," but more meticulous, even marking some loopholes in the rules that could be exploited.

Next was the detailed introduction to the "Ascension Tower."

The Ascension Tower has ninety-nine floors and does not purely test strength, but comprehensively tests a Cultivator's cultivation, Physical Body, Divine Soul, Comprehension Ability, Heart-Nature, and even Luck.

The test on each floor is different; the higher one goes, the greater the difficulty, and there is even a risk of falling.

The Jade Slip detailed the types of tests that might appear on each floor from the first to the eightieth, as well as some coping techniques and precautions summarized by predecessors.

As for above the eighty-first floor, the information was sparse, only mentioning that it is the Realm of true prodigies, not accessible to ordinary Cultivators.

The intelligence on the "Myriad Races Battlefield" Secret Realm was even more precious.

The Jade Slip pointed out that this "Myriad Races Battlefield" was not a simple illusion, but a real, ancient battlefield fragment that had been sealed and modified by powerful beings of the Immortal Court.

It was fraught with danger, with not only various perilous dead zones, Restriction, and residual Formations, but also countless sealed or naturally born Vicious Beast, evil spirits, and even some residual ancient battle souls with self-awareness.

At the same time, the battlefield also contained opportunities such as Magic Treasure fragments, Cultivation Technique legacies, and rare Spirit Medicine left over from the ancient war.

There were detailed analyses on how to survive, earn points, and avoid or hunt opponents within it.

What Lin Wan valued most was the "Genius Roster for the Current Ascension Conference."

On the Genius Roster, there were hundreds of names listed, and behind each name was a detailed introduction: age, cultivation level, background faction, Cultivation Technique practiced, skilled methods, combat record, personality analysis, backing faction inclination, estimated ranking, etc.

Lin Wan browsed quickly, and soon, a few names caught his attention.

First place: Qin Wushuang.

Background: Top family of the Donghua Immortal Domain—the Qin family.

Age: Under one hundred years old.

Cultivation level: Peak Human Immortal.

Cultivation Technique practiced: "Nine Revolutions Tyrant Emperor Art" (a secret of the Qin family).

Specialties: Close-quarters combat, god-like fist techniques, powerful Physical Body; once used Peak Human Immortal cultivation to defeat an Early Stage Earth Immortal Loose Cultivator in three punches (the Loose Cultivator was injured, but the suppression of Realms was real).

Personality: Domineering, arrogant, warlike.

Estimated ranking: Top five, has the strength to compete for first place.

Backing faction: Already internally slated to join the "Donghua Immortal Sect."

Second place: Saintess Ye Qingxue.

Background: Yaochi Immortal Palace (suspected to be a direct disciple of an Elder, but not publicly disclosed).

Age: Unknown, estimated to be around one hundred years old.

Cultivation level: Late Stage Human Immortal (suspected of hiding).

Cultivation Technique practiced: Suspected to be the core Legacy of Yaochi Immortal Palace, "Taiyin True Scripture."

Specialties: Ice-type Divine Ability, superb sword techniques, strange movement techniques.

Combat record: Once fought three Late Stage Human Immortal demon Cultivators of the same level alone in the Northern Underworld Cold Territory and won completely.

Personality: Cold, aloof, dislikes interacting with others.

Estimated ranking: Top five, extremely threatening.

Backing faction: Yaochi Immortal Palace.

Third place: Xiao Zhan.

Background: Loose Cultivator (suspected to have ascended from the Lower Realm).

Age: Unknown.

Cultivation level: Peak Human Immortal.

Cultivation Technique practiced: Unknown, suspected to be a combination of Body Cultivator and Lightning Method.

Specialties: Violent close combat, fierce Lightning Method, battle style fearless of death.

Combat record: Won twenty-nine consecutive matches on the Donghua Immortal City Fighting Platform, including three Peak Human Immortal opponents, with opponents either dead or disabled.

Personality: Battle maniac, bloodthirsty and fond of killing, both righteous and evil.

Estimated ranking: Top five; due to his uncontrollable battle style, the threat assessment is extremely high.

Backing faction: None, suspected to have been recruited by the "Divine Weapon Pavilion."

Fourth place: Su Muyun. Background: Top-tier clan of Donghua Immortal Domain — Su Family. Age: 120 years old. Cultivation: Late Stage Human Immortal. Cultivation Technique: 《Heavenly Sound Marvelous Technique》. Expertise: Sound-based Divine Ability, Divine Soul attacks, illusions. Battle Record: Once used a song, Mortal World Tribulation》, to cause three Late Stage Human Immortal Cultivators to lose their composure and kill each other. Personality: Gentle and elegant, refined, but deep and scheming. Estimated ranking: Top ten. Backing force: Su Family, on good terms with the 'Cauldron Immortal Sect'.

Fifth place: Zhao Wuji. Background: Divine Weapon Pavilion (Inner Sect Core Disciple). Age: 150 years old. Cultivation: Late Stage Human Immortal. Cultivation Technique: 《Geng Metal Body Refining Art》. Expertise: Body Refining, controlling various Magic Treasures, especially skilled with Flying Swords. Battle Record: Once controlled ninety-nine Low Grade Immortal Swords to form a sword Formation, trapping and killing a Peak Human Immortal Demonic Cultivator. Personality: Calm, decisive, ruthless in killing. Estimated ranking: Top ten. Backing force: Divine Weapon Pavilion.

...

On the Genius Roster, besides these five recognized strongest, there are dozens of names marked as 'has the strength to break into the top one hundred', 'has dark horse potential', 'needs special attention', etc. Among them, some names are even marked with 'suspected Ascension from Lower Realm, combat power unknown, requires vigilance'.

'Qin Wushuang, Saintess Ye Qingxue, Xiao Zhan, Su Muyun, Zhao Wuji...' Lin Wan silently noted these names, especially that 'Xiao Zhan'. He also ascended from the Lower Realm, also made a name for himself on the Fighting Platform, and his combat style is fierce and brave, not to be underestimated. Then there is Saintess Ye Qingxue, from the Yaochi Immortal Palace, mysterious and powerful. Qin Wushuang, backed by the Qin Family and the Donghua Immortal Sect, has a deep Foundation. Su Muyun, skilled in Divine Soul attacks, tricky and hard to guard against. Zhao Wuji, possesses numerous Magic Treasures and diverse methods.

'Sure enough, the Immortal Realm is full of geniuses, not to be underestimated.' Lin Wan thought to himself. These are only the geniuses on the surface, those whose information the Tianji Tower could collect. Whether there are more powerful and hidden existences in the dark is unknown. Moreover, the Ascension Conference gathers young geniuses from the entire Donghua Immortal Domain, and it is even possible that prodigies from other Immortal Territories, or even other worlds, will participate. The intensity of the competition can be imagined.

'However, this is what makes it interesting.' A flash of Battle Intent crossed Lin Wan's eyes. Having been invincible among his peers for too long, he had long been yearning to clash with true geniuses and verify his own Dao. This Ascension Conference is the perfect stage.

Just as Lin Wan was browsing the information in the Jade Slip, the door of the quiet room was pushed open. Elder Yu walked in again, followed by a middle-aged man wearing a moon-white robe, with an elegant temperament, a face like jade, and holding a jade-boned folding fan.

This middle-aged man's aura was restrained, like a Mortal, but Lin Wan could feel that the dao rhyme flowed around him, faintly merging with the world. His cultivation was definitely far beyond Elder Yu, perhaps even... an Earth Immortal, or even a Heavenly Immortal!

'Tower Master, this is the young friend Lin Wan who wants to inquire about the clues to the 'samsara mirror'.' Elder Yu said respectfully to the middle-aged man.

Tower Master? The Tower Master of this branch of the Tianji Tower? Lin Wan felt a jolt in his heart, stood up, and cupped his hands: 'Junior Lin Wan, greets the Tower Master.'

'Young friend Lin, no need for formalities.' The middle-aged man smiled slightly, waving his folding fan gently, looking refined, 'I am Su Wenxuan, serving as the Tower Master of this Tianji Tower. I heard that you want to inquire about the 'samsara mirror'?'

'Exactly.' Lin Wan nodded, neither humble nor arrogant.

Su Wenxuan's gaze fell on Lin Wan, appearing casual, but Lin Wan felt as if he had been swept by an invisible force, as if he were being seen through inside and out. However, the 'Chaos Reincarnation Divine Kingdom' in his body moved slightly, and an invisible, profound force field flowed naturally, isolating the prying force.

'Oh?' A flash of surprise crossed Su Wenxuan's eyes, but he quickly composed himself, his smile becoming even warmer, 'Young friend is truly extraordinary. To be able to break through the Realm and ascend by force, possessing a strange dao rhyme, and even my 'Void Tempering Eye' is difficult to see through, no wonder you could defeat a Body Cultivator like Bear Tyrant in one move.'

Lin Wan felt a jolt in his heart. This Su Wenxuan is truly not simple. Not only did he know that he broke through the Realm and ascended by force (perhaps learned from the Master of Yunxu Palace), but he also knew about him defeating Bear Tyrant on the Fighting Platform. The intelligence network of the Tianji Tower is truly terrifying.

'Tower Master is too kind.' Lin Wan said calmly.

'Young friend wants to inquire about the clues to the 'samsara mirror', this matter is indeed of great significance.' Su Wenxuan sat down on the meditation cushion, signaling for Lin Wan to sit as well, 'The 'samsara mirror' is the life-bound supreme treasure of the ancient Reincarnation Immortal Emperor. Legend has it that it possesses the ability to interfere with Reincarnation and pry into the past and future. During the ancient war, the Reincarnation Immortal Emperor fell, and the 'samsara mirror' shattered accordingly, with fragments scattered across all worlds, their whereabouts unknown. Any news about its fragments touches the nerves of countless people and also means endless trouble and danger.'

Su Wenxuan looked at Lin Wan with deep eyes: 'Young friend is inquiring about this item, are you looking for the fragments to repair this mirror? Or... do you have other uses for it?'

'Junior is just interested in the Dao of Reincarnation, and hearing that this item is related to Reincarnation, I wanted to inquire a little to broaden my knowledge.' Lin Wan naturally would not tell the truth and found an excuse to gloss over it.

Su Wenxuan did not delve into it either, smiled, and said: 'If young friend is unwilling to say, that is fine. Our Tianji Tower only does business and does not ask for reasons. Regarding the clues to the 'samsara mirror', this tower does possess some, but as Elder Yu said, they are of great value and involve too much, not something that can be purchased with Immortal Crystals.'

'Tower Master, please speak clearly. What kind of price is required?' Lin Wan asked.

Su Wenxuan waved his folding fan, pondered for a moment, and said: 'Young friend was able to break through the Realm and ascend by force, and possesses a strange dao rhyme. Your future achievements will be limitless. Our Tianji Tower is willing to build a good relationship with you. I can give you some clues about the 'samsara mirror' for free.'

'Free?' Lin Wan was stunned, a bit surprised. There is no such thing as a free lunch in the sky; free often means a more expensive price.

'Correct, free.' Su Wenxuan nodded, his tone shifting, 'However, I also have one condition, or rather, a request.'

'Tower Master, please speak.'

'I hope that young friend can strive to achieve the best ranking in this Ascension Conference, preferably... the top three.' Su Wenxuan looked at Lin Wan with burning eyes.

'Top three?' Lin Wan frowned slightly, 'Tower Master has such confidence in me? Qin Wushuang, Saintess Ye Qingxue, Xiao Zhan, and others are not easy to deal with.'

'I have confidence in you.' Su Wenxuan smiled, 'Based on the strength you displayed on the Fighting Platform, you absolutely have the qualifications to compete for the top three. Moreover, I observe that your aura is heavy and condensed, your Foundation is deep, and your dao rhyme is profound, which is by no means comparable to an ordinary Middle Stage Human Immortal. If you go all out, the top three is not impossible.'

'Why does the Tower Master need me to get into the top three?' Lin Wan asked. He did not believe Su Wenxuan simply thought highly of him.

'Does young friend know that the Ascension Conference is not only for selecting talents for the Immortal Court but also a stage for various forces to display their strength, compete for resources, and even resolve some grievances?' Su Wenxuan said.

'I have heard a little.' Lin Wan nodded. The Jade Slip mentioned that behind the Ascension Conference lies the game of various major forces.

'Our Tianji Tower, although we do not directly participate in the struggles of forces, we also need to maintain a transcendent status and demonstrate our influence.' Su Wenxuan said slowly, 'In every Ascension Conference, those who rank at the top not only receive rewards from the Immortal Court but also gain the favor and recruitment of various major forces. If young friend can accept the status of a 'Guest Elder' of our Tianji Tower as a top-three finisher, even if it is only in name, it will be of great benefit to the reputation of our Tianji Tower in this assembly, as well as subsequent layouts.'

'Guest Elder?' Lin Wan understood. The Tianji Tower is trying to invest in advance, binding him as a 'potential stock', and using his performance in the Ascension Conference to make a name for themselves and build momentum. Just like the 'promise' Elder Yu said before, only Su Wenxuan's conditions are more direct — achieve the top three, become a nominal Guest Elder.

'It is only a nominal Guest Elder, you do not need to do anything for the Tianji Tower, and it will not restrict your freedom. On the contrary, young friend will become a 'Purple Jade' level VIP of our Tianji Tower, enjoying many privileges, such as a 30% discount on purchasing intelligence, priority access to certain confidential information, and even, when necessary, the ability to mobilize some of the Tianji Tower's resources and personnel.' Su Wenxuan threw out tempting conditions.

'Purple Jade level VIP?' Lin Wan's heart stirred. The Tianji Tower's intelligence network spreads across the Immortal Realm. If he could become its high-level VIP, it would undoubtedly be of huge help for him to search for the 'samsara mirror' fragments and inquire about the source of 'the end' in the future.

'What if I fail to enter the top three?' Lin Wan asked.

'That is also fine.' Su Wenxuan smiled, 'As long as young friend does your best. Regardless of the outcome, I can tell you the clue about the 'samsara mirror', just to build a good relationship. However, the status of a Purple Jade level VIP will need young friend to strive for it in other ways.'

This Su Wenxuan is indeed good at handling people, with loose conditions and a balanced approach, making it hard to refuse.

Lin Wan pondered for a moment. Achieving the top three in the Ascension Conference was already one of the goals he set for himself. Now that he could achieve his goal, get the clues to the 'samsara mirror' for free, and become a Purple Jade level VIP of the Tianji Tower, it seemed there were no downsides.

'Good, I agree.' Lin Wan no longer hesitated and nodded, 'If I can enter the top three, I will accept the status of Guest Elder of the Tianji Tower. If I cannot, please tell me the clue, and I will remember this favor.'

'Straightforward!' Su Wenxuan clapped his hands and laughed, taking out a purple token that was neither gold nor jade, as well as an ordinary white Jade Slip, and handed them to Lin Wan.

'This is the 'Purple Jade Token' of our Tianji Tower, temporarily lent to you. With this token, during the assembly, you can enjoy part of the privileges of a Purple Jade level VIP, such as enjoying discounts at various properties of our Tianji Tower, and inquiring about some intelligence that does not involve core secrets. If you eventually enter the top three, this token will formally belong to you. If not, just return it after the assembly.'

'This Jade Slip contains a clue about the fragments of the 'samsara mirror'. Our tower has not been able to fully verify this clue, so it is for reference only; young friend needs to judge its authenticity yourself.'

Lin Wan took the Purple Jade Token and the white Jade Slip. The Purple Jade Token felt warm to the touch, with the words 'Tianji' engraved on the front, and a profound star map on the back, with faint Divine Soul fluctuations, obviously having special Restrictions. The white Jade Slip was very ordinary; when his Divine Sense probed inside, there were only a few lines of text:

'In the Donghua Calendar, year 98,731, a Loose Cultivator was suspected to have discovered a fragment containing the dao rhyme of 'Reincarnation' on the outskirts of the 'Ancient Burial Ground'. The aura was obscure and ancient, three parts similar to the 'samsara mirror' fragment recorded in ancient books. After obtaining the fragment, the Loose Cultivator was hunted by an unknown force and finally fled into the depths of the 'Nether Blood Sea', whereabouts unknown. The fragment is suspected to be lost in the border area between the 'Nether Blood Sea' and the 'Ancient Burial Ground'. Note: This intelligence source is vague and unverified. Both the 'Ancient Burial Ground' and the 'Nether Blood Sea' are among the nine forbidden lands of the Donghua Immortal Domain, dangerously unpredictable. Even if a Heavenly Immortal enters, there is a risk of falling. Proceed with caution.'

'Ancient Burial Ground... Nether Blood Sea...' Lin Wan recited silently, noting these two place names. Although the clue is vague and the location is a notoriously dangerous forbidden land, at least there is a direction, which is better than looking for a needle in a haystack.

'Many thanks, Tower Master.' After Lin Wan memorized the content of the Jade Slip, the Jade Slip turned into dust. He put away the Purple Jade Token and cupped his hands to thank Su Wenxuan.

'Young friend is too polite.' Su Wenxuan smiled, 'I wish young friend a stunning performance in the Ascension Conference and to win the championship. If you have any needs, you can hold the Purple Jade Token and come to the Tianji Tower to find me at any time. Before the assembly, you can use this token to Cultivate in seclusion in the quiet room in the tower. Any Medicinal Pills or Spirit Stones you need can be placed on credit and paid back after the assembly.'

'Tower Master's kindness, I am deeply grateful.' Lin Wan thanked him again. This Tianji Tower really spent a lot of money to win him over. However, he noted this favor. In the future, if he really achieves something, he would not mind reciprocating within his ability.

'Elder Yu, see young friend Lin out.' Su Wenxuan instructed Elder Yu.

'Young friend Lin, please.' Elder Yu said respectfully.

Lin Wan stood up, cupped his hands to Su Wenxuan again, and then, accompanied by Elder Yu, left the quiet room and walked out of the Tianji Tower.

Watching Lin Wan's departing back, the smile on Su Wenxuan's face gradually faded, and a deep light flashed in his eyes.

"Breaking through the Realm with strength, and harboring the embryonic forms of several supreme dao rhymes such as Chaos, Reincarnation, existence, and the end...? An interesting little fellow. No wonder even the 'All-Heavens Ascension Ranking' couldn't record him, and even the 'Ascension Reception Talisman' wasn't triggered... His Dao is not within the records of the 'All Heavens and Myriad Worlds'; he is a true 'anomaly'."

"Such a figure, if he can grow smoothly, will at the very least become a titan in the future, and perhaps even have the hope of challenging that supreme Realm... Forming a good relationship while he is still insignificant; this investment is worth it."

Su Wenxuan played with the jade-boned folding fan in his hand, muttering to himself.

"It's just that, the news about the 'samsara mirror' fragment... I hope he won't be too impulsive. The Ancient Burial Ground, the Nether Blood Sea... those are not places a Human Immortal can go. Even I wouldn't dare to venture deep into them easily..."

"Forget it, one's fate cannot be forced. Since he could break through the Realm with strength and ascend from the Lower Realm, he naturally has his own Luck. Perhaps, he might just create a miracle..."

Su Wenxuan shook his head, stopped overthinking, and his figure slowly faded, disappearing from the quiet room.

...

Leaving Tianji Tower, Lin Wan did not immediately return to "Tingyu Pavilion," nor did he go to the quiet room provided by Tianji Tower to enter secluded cultivation. He first visited several large shops in the city, using the remaining Immortal Crystals and some unnecessary Materials he had on him to purchase some Medicinal Pills and Talismans that would help with increasing cultivation, recovering magic power, healing injuries, and temporarily enhancing combat strength.

Among them, a type of Grade 3 Immortal Pill called "Condensing Yuan Pill" had a good effect on increasing the cultivation of Cultivators at the True Immortal (Human Immortal) Realm. It was quite expensive; one bottle (ten pills) cost five hundred Medium Grade Immortal Crystals. Lin Wan bought two bottles.

There was also a Grade 4 Immortal Talisman called "Minor Teleportation Talisman," which could instantly teleport one a thousand miles away in a critical moment. It was a good item for saving one's life, but the price was even higher, costing eight hundred Medium Grade Immortal Crystals for a single one. Lin Wan gritted his teeth and bought one.

He also bought some others, such as the "Returning Yuan Pill" for recovering magic power, the "Life Creation Pill" for healing, the "Giant Strength Talisman" for temporarily increasing physical strength, and the "Godly Movement Talisman" for increasing speed.

After all the purchases, the five thousand Medium Grade Immortal Crystals he had just obtained, plus what he had left before, were almost completely exhausted, with less than one hundred left.

"Spending money is truly like water flowing." Lin Wan looked at the few dozen Medium Grade Immortal Crystals left in his hand and shook his head with a bitter smile. In the Immortal Realm, without Immortal Crystals, it is hard to move an inch. It seems that after the Assembly, no matter what, he would have to find a way to earn Immortal Crystals.

After finishing the purchases, Lin Wan did not delay and returned directly to "Tingyu Pavilion."

He activated the courtyard's Restriction, entered the quiet room, and once again activated the protective, soundproofing, and Spirit Gathering Formation of the quiet room.

Inside the quiet room, Immortal Qi was dense, several times thicker than the outside world. The effect of the small Spirit Gathering Formation was indeed quite good.

Lin Wan sat cross-legged, but did not immediately take the "Condensing Yuan Pill" to Cultivate. Instead, he first took out the black Jade Slip he bought from Tianji Tower regarding the intelligence on the Ascension Conference, as well as the white Jade Slip given by Su Wenxuan (the content had already been memorized and destroyed).

He first repeatedly studied the detailed intelligence on the Ascension Conference, especially the information on the "Genius Roster" and the "Ten Thousand Races Battlefield," keeping it firmly in mind. He achieved a thorough understanding of the potential opponents he might encounter, as well as the dangers and Opportunities within the battlefield.

"Qin Wushuang, Overbearing Imperial Fist, strong Physical Body, need to be wary of his close-range burst."

"Saintess Ye Qingxue, Ice-attribute Divine Ability, superb sword technique, mysterious movement technique, skilled in control and surprise attacks."

"Xiao Zhan, combination of Body Cultivator and Lightning techniques, fierce combat style, uses strength to break techniques, must suppress with even greater strength."

"Su Muyun, musical Divine Soul attacks, impossible to guard against, need to solidify the Divine Soul, or use thunderous methods to end the fight quickly."

"Little Thunder God, numerous Magic Treasures, troublesome sword Formations, need to break his sword Formations, or use close-range rapid attacks."

...

The characteristics, weaknesses, and response strategies of each opponent were constantly being deduced and simulated in Lin Wan's mind. At the same time, he began to combine the characteristics of his own "Chaos Reincarnation Divine Kingdom" to think about how to use his power during the Assembly, so that he could defeat his enemies while not exposing all his trump cards too early.

"Chaos" encompasses, evolves, and assimilates; it can handle attacks of various attributes, and can also simulate and evolve methods to counter opponents.

"existence" stabilizes oneself, makes one immune to all techniques, and especially counters strange methods like Divine Soul attacks, curses, and Restrictions.

"Reincarnation" can wear down an opponent's power, reflect attacks, and even pull opponents into a Reincarnation illusion.

"the end" is the ultimate killing move, containing the power of "termination" and "annihilation," capable of shattering all techniques, but it consumes a huge amount of energy and is easily noticeable, so it must be used with caution.

"The first stage of the Assembly, 'Ascension Tower,' tests comprehensive strength. My 'Chaos Reincarnation Divine Kingdom' encompasses everything and should be able to handle it. The focus is on the 'Ten Thousand Races Battlefield.' In the chaotic battle, I must not only face other participants but also deal with the dangers of the Secret Realm itself, so I need to be even more careful. Moreover, there might be special Opportunities in the battlefield, so I need to pay attention..."

Lin Wan was immersed in deduction and preparation, completely unaware of the passage of time.

Until he had completely digested the intelligence on the Assembly and had contingency plans for various situations, he only then put away the Jade Slips and took out the two bottles of "Condensing Yuan Pill."

"There are less than three months left until the Assembly; I need to raise my cultivation to the Human Immortal Late Stage as soon as possible. If I can break through to the Human Immortal Peak, my chances of competing for the top three will greatly increase."

Lin Wan poured out one "Condensing Yuan Pill." The Medicinal Pill was pale gold, the size of a dragon's eye, with cloud patterns swirling on its surface, emitting a rich medicinal fragrance and pure Immortal Qi. He did not hesitate and swallowed the pill directly.

The pill melted upon entering his mouth, turning into a warm current that surged into his limbs and bones, finally gathering in his Dantian, where it was slowly absorbed and refined by the "Chaos Reincarnation Divine Kingdom."

The "Chaos Reincarnation Divine Kingdom" vibrated slightly, like a thirsty infant, greedily absorbing the pure energy provided by the "Condensing Yuan Pill." Inside the Divine Kingdom, the gray Chaos mist seemed to have become a bit denser, and the "existence" Dao Seed and "the end" Dao Seed at the center also glowed slightly, appearing more solidified.

"The effect is good, but... it's still not enough." Lin Wan sensed the slow growth of his cultivation and frowned slightly. The Foundation of the "Chaos Reincarnation Divine Kingdom" was too profound, and the energy required was far beyond that of Cultivators of the same rank. This "Condensing Yuan Pill" had a significant effect on ordinary True Immortals, but for him, it could only be considered a drop in the bucket.

"It seems that relying solely on Medicinal Pills to break through to the Human Immortal Late Stage, or even the Peak, within three months is not very realistic. I still need to find other ways."

Lin Wan pondered in his heart, his gaze falling on the "samsara mirror" fragment quietly floating in the center of the Divine Kingdom. The fragment was still dim, with only a faint light flowing, but the Reincarnation power contained within it was as vast as the sea, only he could not mobilize it at the moment.

"If I could find another 'samsara mirror' fragment, or some Heaven And Earth Treasure related to Reincarnation, and merge it into the Divine Kingdom, it would definitely greatly accelerate my cultivation speed, and even cause the Divine Kingdom to undergo a new transformation."

"The Ancient Burial Ground... the Nether Blood Sea..." In Lin Wan's mind, that vague clue surfaced once again. Dangerous forbidden lands are often accompanied by great Opportunities.

"Going now is undoubtedly courting death. At the very least, I must wait until I have Earth Immortal cultivation, or even Heavenly Immortal, to be qualified to explore the periphery of the forbidden land. The most urgent matter is still the Ascension Conference."

Suppressing the thoughts in his mind, Lin Wan calmed his heart and focused his spirit, starting to circulate the "Chaos Reincarnation Scripture" with all his might, absorbing the dense Immortal Qi in the quiet room while slowly refining the medicinal power of the "Condensing Yuan Pill."

Time passed slowly in cultivation.

Inside the quiet room, Lin Wan's whole body was shrouded in gray Chaos Qi, his aura heavy and vast, like an ancient sacred mountain slowly awakening.

...

Just as Lin Wan was in secluded cultivation, preparing for the Ascension Conference, the discussion about the name "Lin Wan" in Donghua Immortal City did not cease; instead, because of Tianji Tower's intentional or unintentional fueling, and the rapid spread of that battle on the Fighting Platform, it gradually fermented.

Especially when someone dug out that Lin Wan had actually come out of the "Ascension Hall" and was suspected to be a Lower Realm Cultivator who had "broken through the Realm with strength" to ascend, it caused quite a sensation.

"Ascended by breaking through the Realm with strength? Is that true or false? Isn't that something from legends?"

"I heard that the Hall Master Yunxu of the 'Ascension Hall' personally received him and even gave him a temporary pass!"

"No wonder he's so fierce! Whoever can ascend by breaking through the Realm with strength, which one of them isn't a Prodigy?"

"Now there's a good show to watch! This Ascension Conference actually has such a dark horse!"

"It's just that I don't know, compared to top prodigies like Qin Wushuang, Saintess Ye Qingxue, and Xiao Zhan, who is stronger and who is weaker?"

"I think it's doubtful. Those prodigies all grew up in the Immortal Realm since childhood; their resources, Cultivation Techniques, and horizons are not comparable to those of a Lower Realm Cultivator. Although Lin Wan is powerful, his Foundation is still shallow after all."

"Not necessarily! Being able to break through the Realm with strength itself shows that his talent, perseverance, and Foundation are far superior to ordinary people. I bet he can enter the top twenty!"

"I bet the top ten!"

...

For a time, the name Lin Wan, driven by interested parties, actually entered the sights of certain forces and certain geniuses.

In the west of the city, inside a luxurious mansion.

A giant with his upper body bare, covered in bandages, and exuding a strong medicinal smell, was listening to his subordinate's report, his face so gloomy it was almost dripping water.

It was precisely Bear Tyrant, who had been defeated by Lin Wan in one move.

"Lin Wan... ascended by breaking through the Realm with strength?" Bear Tyrant clenched his only intact fist, his knuckles turning white, his eyes filled with unwillingness and resentment. "Good! Very good! Daring to make me, Bear Tyrant, lose face in public and break one of my arms! I will remember this grudge! Ascension Conference... hehe, you had better not let me meet you in the 'Ten Thousand Races Battlefield,' otherwise, I will definitely tear you into ten thousand pieces!"

In the east of the city, in a quiet and elegant garden.

A woman dressed in white, with a temperament as cold as snow and a peerless appearance, was practicing sword techniques facing a pool of cold water. The sword light was like snow, the cold air piercing, and a layer of thin ice had already formed on the surface of the pool.

A maid walked over hurriedly and reported a few words in a low voice.

The woman's sword practice paused slightly, then resumed, as if she had heard nothing. Only deep within her cold eyes, a faint ripple flashed by.

"Lin Wan... breaking through the Realm with strength? A bit interesting."

She sheathed her sword and looked toward the cloud-shrouded Immortal Mountain in the distance, muttering to herself.

"Ascension Conference, I hope to meet a decent opponent. That brute Qin Wushuang and that madman Xiao Zhan are all too boring."

In the north of the city, in a valley shrouded by violent lightning.

A tall, bare-chested man, wrapped in purple lightning and looking like a God of Thunder, was fighting a Vicious Beast the size of a small hill, covered in black scales, with his bare hands. The man's punches were like thunder, each punch carrying terrifying lightning power, blasting the Vicious Beast back repeatedly, its scales shattered, blood dripping everywhere.

Suddenly, he seemed to sense something, punched the Vicious Beast away, let it escape, and wiped the blood from his face, grinning and revealing his white teeth.

"Lin Wan? One-shotted that trash Bear Tyrant? Hehe, it seems this Assembly won't be too boring. I hope you can take a beating, don't be like Bear Tyrant, who was crippled in one punch."

In his eyes, fanatical Battle Intent flashed.

...

Undercurrents were surging everywhere, but the center of the storm—Lin Wan—turned a deaf ear to everything outside and was wholeheartedly immersed in cultivation.

His aura, nourished by the "Condensing Yuan Pill" and the dense Immortal Qi in the quiet room, was steadily rising, slowly advancing toward the Human Immortal Late Stage.