71: Chapter 71 The Invitation of Tiandu

"Five Regions Dao Discussion Conference..."

"Tiandu Mountain..."

In the Asking Dao Pavilion of Lingyun Peak, Qingyun Sect, True Monarch Daoxuan, Peak Master Yue Lingyun, Lin Wan, Han Lingtian, and Liao Chen (representing the Vajra Temple of the Western Desert, temporarily stationed at Qingyun Sect), along with True Monarch Xiaoyun, Fairy Baihua, and Shanjun (the three of whom had become permanent Elders of the "Southern Region Anti-Calamity Alliance"), who had just returned from the Western Desert, were gathered together.

The atmosphere was even heavier than it had been months ago during the preparations for the "Southern Region Alliance Meeting."

Before them floated several jade invitations, shimmering with light and emanating the unique aura of different factions.

The most luxurious one in the center, intricately carved from five types of top-tier spiritual jade with faint, swirling dragon and phoenix phantoms inside, was the official invitation to the "Five Regions Dao Discussion Conference" jointly issued by the five top factions of the Central Plains (Da Yan Heaven Sect, Wuji Sword Sect, Yaochi Immortal Palace, Taishang Alchemy Sect, Heavenly Secret Pavilion).

At its signature, besides the seals of the five major factions, there was also a faint yet majestic Dao-Harmonization seal that seemed to trigger resonance with Heaven and Earth, highlighting the unprecedented high status of this conference.

"The Five Regions Dao Discussion occurs once in a millennium. Initiated by the five major factions of the Central Plains, it invites all Cultivators above the Soul Transformation Stage from the Five Regions, as well as some top prodigies and powerful leaders among the Nascent Soul Stage. Nominally, it is for exchanging Dao techniques and sparring, but in reality, it is a top-level gathering to delineate spheres of influence across the Five Regions, resolve major disputes, and distribute top-tier resources related to the Luck of the Five Regions."

True Monarch Daoxuan spoke in a low voice, explaining to those present who were not very familiar with the inside story (such as Han Lingtian, Fairy Baihua, etc.), "The last Five Regions Dao Discussion was eight hundred years ago. Now that it is being held again, and specifically naming Lin Wan, its intention... goes without saying."

"Hmph, what exchanging Dao techniques; it's just because they see Alliance Revered Master Lin integrating the Southern Region and being too prominent, so they want to take this opportunity to probe, suppress, or even... divide interests."

True Monarch Xiaoyun snorted coldly. As a Sword Cultivator, he was straightforward and pointed out the key, "Especially the remnants of the Skyfire Sect in the Eastern Wasteland and those in the Northern Plains; they will definitely fuel the flames in the dark, or even collude with certain factions in the Central Plains, wanting to embarrass our Southern Region at the Dao Discussion Conference and weaken the prestige of Alliance Revered Master Lin and the Anti-Calamity Alliance."

"Amitabha."

Liao Chen put his hands together, his face showing worry, "According to the message from Abbot Liaoyin, this Dao Discussion Conference is indeed unusual. It seems there are different opinions within the five major factions of the Central Plains regarding 'the end'. Some advocate for joint investigation and resisting the great calamity together, while others believe this is the Southern Region fear-mongering and expanding its influence. There is no lack of those colluding with the Eastern Wasteland and Northern Plains, wanting to suppress us. This conference is likely not a friendly place."

A hint of gravity flashed in Fairy Baihua's beautiful eyes: "Although Fellow Daoist Lin has unparalleled combat power, the Dao Discussion Conference is not purely about fighting. It involves political maneuvering between factions, exchange of interests, debates on Dao techniques, and even... some unknown conspiracies. The waters in the Central Plains are deep, with many Soul Transformation experts. It may be inconvenient for Fellow Daoist Lin to go alone."

"That is true, Junior Brother Lin, this matter requires caution."

Peak Master Yue Lingyun also looked at Lin Wan with concern, "Those old monsters in the Central Plains are all old foxes who have lived for thousands of years, and their cultivation is unfathomable. Although you are strong, you cannot fight many with only two fists. Moreover, the conference is held at Tiandu Mountain, a Forbidden Ground jointly controlled by the five major factions of the Central Plains, filled with Formations and countless Restrictions. Once you enter, it will be a dragon's den and tiger's lair."

Lin Wan naturally understood everyone's concerns.

His gaze swept over those invitations, especially the jade Talisman sent separately by the Heavenly Secret Pavilion, which was branded with the trajectory of stars.

In the jade Talisman, although Elder Xingyan's words were cryptic, the information revealed gave him a clearer judgment of the dangers and opportunities of this conference.

"I appreciate everyone's kindness."

Lin Wan spoke slowly, his voice calm but with an unquestionable firmness, "However, I must attend this 'Five Regions Dao Discussion Conference'."

He paused, his gaze becoming sharp: "Firstly, I integrated the Southern Region and established the Anti-Calamity Alliance with the purpose of uniting our strength to resist 'the end'. If I don't even dare to attend the highest-level Dao Discussion Conference of the Five Regions, how can I win the trust of other major regions? How can I persuade them to join? Closing the door and working in isolation will only lead to waiting for death. We must go out, place the threat of 'the end' before them, and let them see it with their own eyes and experience it themselves."

"Secondly, the higher-ups of the five major factions of the Central Plains, and even the entire Tiannan Continent, have an ambiguous attitude towards 'the end'. I need to take this opportunity to ascertain their true stance and distinguish friend from foe. At the same time, I must announce to the entire Tiannan Continent that our Southern Region Anti-Calamity Alliance has the strength and determination to shoulder the responsibility of guarding this world. This Dao Discussion Conference is the best stage."

"Thirdly..."

A deep light flashed in Lin Wan's eyes, "My Dao has reached a Bottleneck. Nascent Soul Great Perfection, there is no further way to advance. The path to Soul Transformation is mysterious, and it cannot be achieved by closed-door cultivation. By discussing Dao with the heroes of the world and competing with giants from all sides, perhaps I can find that glimmer of a Breakthrough amidst the pressure of life and death and the collision of wisdom. This Tiandu Mountain is my... whetstone, and also... a ladder to the sky."

His words were clear, his goals were specific, and he was full of strong confidence and determination.

Everyone was shocked when they heard this.

They could feel the indomitable spirit contained in Lin Wan's words.

Yes, with Lin Wan's current strength and the responsibilities he shouldered, retreating and avoiding was definitely not his way.

Only by meeting the difficulties head-on and carving out a bloody path in a wider world could he truly achieve the supreme Dao and lead the Southern Region, and even this world, through the great calamity of the future.

"Since Fellow Daoist Lin has such determination, this monk will naturally support you."

Liao Chen was the first to express his stance, "The Vajra Temple of the Western Desert will fully support you. Abbot Liaoyin may personally come to Tiandu Mountain at that time to provide assistance."

"My Xuantian Sword Sect is willing to go with the Alliance Revered Master! I want to see how much substance those arrogant guys in the Central Plains have!"

True Monarch Xiaoyun was bold and heroic.

"Hundred Flowers Valley is also willing to follow the Alliance Revered Master and go to Tiandu together!"

Fairy Baihua also said solemnly.

"Beast Taming Mountain, same here!"

Shanjun grunted.

Han Lingtian slammed his heavy sword down: "Junior Brother Lin, I will go with you!"

Seeing everyone expressing their stance, Lin Wan felt a little warm in his heart, but he shook his head: "Senior Brother Han, Fellow Daoist Liao Chen, Fellow Daoist Xiaoyun, Fellow Daoist Baihua, Fellow Daoist Shanjun, I appreciate your intentions. But this trip to Tiandu Mountain, having too many people is not beneficial; it is easy to give others a handle and fall into a passive position."

He looked at everyone and explained: "For the Dao Discussion Conference, those invited are either Soul Transformation Cultivators or powerful leaders or recognized top prodigies in the Nascent Soul Stage who can represent a faction. As the Alliance Revered Master of the Southern Region Anti-Calamity Alliance, it is reasonable for me to be invited. But if I take a large group of people with me, it will make our Southern Region look insecure and easily trigger unnecessary conflicts and suspicions. Moreover, the Southern Region has just been settled, and the Anti-Calamity Alliance has many complicated matters that require you all to sit in command, stabilize the rear, and guard against the scoundrels of the Eastern Wasteland and Northern Plains, as well as the potential 'the end' minions who might take advantage of the Chaos."

"Then if you go alone, Junior Brother Lin, wouldn't it be even more dangerous?"

Peak Master Yue Lingyun said anxiously.

"Revered Master, don't worry, I have my own measure."

Lin Wan smiled slightly, a confident light flashing in his eyes, "Besides, I am not alone."

His mind moved slightly, and the chaotic-colored Five Elements Guixu Dao Seed mark between his eyebrows lit up slightly.

An invisible fluctuation that resonated with a distant place quietly radiated out.

"The Five Elements Barrier has been initially under my control. Although I cannot move it entirely to the Central Plains, through the sensing of the Dao Seed, I can call upon part of its power at any time, and even... in a critical moment, use the Dao Seed as a guide to conduct ultra-long-distance 'Void Realm Guidance' and 'Barrier Projection'. Even if I am trapped in the Forbidden Ground of Tiandu Mountain, I have ways to protect myself and escape."

Hearing this, everyone was shocked.

The Five Elements Barrier was a war fortress created by the ancient Five Elements Sect with all their might.

Although they had not seen its power with their own eyes, judging from Lin Wan's description and the strength he had displayed, it was definitely beyond imagination.

With this reliance, Lin Wan's safety indeed had a few more guarantees.

"Moreover," Lin Wan continued, his gaze looking at the jade Talisman from the Heavenly Secret Pavilion, "This trip may not be entirely with enemies. The goodwill of the Heavenly Secret Pavilion, the support of the Western Desert Buddhist Kingdom, and even within the Central Plains, there may be factions inclined to unite against 'the end'. The key lies in how we respond and how we... demonstrate our value and strength."

Seeing that Lin Wan had thought carefully and was well-prepared, although everyone was still worried, they knew they could not persuade him anymore.

True Monarch Daoxuan finally made the decision: "Since that is the case, we will follow Lin Wan's intention. Lin Wan will represent our Southern Region Anti-Calamity Alliance to go to Tiandu Mountain and participate in the Five Regions Dao Discussion. Han Lingtian, Xiaoyun, Baihua, Shanjun, you four will take elite Disciples and station at 'Two Worlds City' at the border between the Central Plains and the Southern Region as support. Great Master Liao Chen, please contact the Western Desert, closely monitor the movements of the Central Plains, and be ready to support at any time. I and Junior Brother Yue will sit in command within the Sect and the Anti-Calamity Alliance to ensure everything goes smoothly."

"We will obey the Sect Head's (Alliance Revered Master's) decree!"

Everyone answered in unison.

Once the plan was set, they discussed many details in detail, including the accompanying personnel (Lin Wan decided to only take Liu Ruyan, Chu Qingyao, and Lin Jingyun with him, which was both training and appeared calm and unhurried, not like facing a great enemy), the gifts to bring, and strategies for dealing with various emergencies, etc.

When everything was arranged, it was already late at night.

Everyone dispersed to prepare.

Lin Wan returned to Guixu Peak, Listening Rain Pavilion.

Liu Ruyan, Chu Qingyao, and Lin Jingyun had been waiting there for a long time.

They had already learned from Peak Master Yue Lingyun that Lin Wan would go to Tiandu Mountain in the Central Plains to participate in the "Five Regions Dao Discussion Conference".

They had concerns about the unknown, but also excitement and anticipation for being able to accompany Lin Wan.

"Brother Wan, this trip to the Central Plains is unpredictable, do you really want to take us with you?"

Liu Ruyan stepped forward, holding Lin Wan's hand, her eyes full of concern.

"Father, I will definitely work hard and never hold you back!"

Lin Jingyun was full of excitement, his eyes burning with fighting spirit.

Although Chu Qingyao did not speak, the trust and support in her eyes were clearly visible.

"It's fine."

Lin Wan said warmly, pulling his wife and son into his arms, "Although the Central Plains is dangerous, it is also an excellent place for training. Jingyun, you have not been in the Core Formation Stage for long, so you need to broaden your horizons and meet the heroes of the world. Ruyan, Qing Yao, your cultivation has also reached a Bottleneck, perhaps the environment and opportunities in the Central Plains can help you break through. Our family going together and taking care of each other is actually safer. Besides..."

A deep light flashed in his eyes: "There are some things, some scenery, that I also want to witness with you all."

The family talked for a while longer, and Lin Wan distributed some life-saving and protective treasures and Talismans to the three of them, and gave them many precautions.

Afterwards, Lin Wan entered another brief period of seclusion. He needed to adjust his state to the absolute Peak and further familiarize himself with and deduce that "Divine Ability" still in its embryonic stage, preparing fully for the upcoming "Five Regions Dao Discussion Conference," which would likely be filled with both literal and metaphorical clashes of steel and tongue.

Time flew by amidst the tense and orderly preparations.

The one-year deadline was approaching in the blink of an eye.

On this day, as dawn broke, before the mountain gate of the Qingyun Sect.

A strange flying boat, thirty zhang long, shimmering with chaotic five-colored light, with smooth lines that seemed naturally formed, and radiating a faint aura of the chaotic Dao and immense pressure, hovered silently. The boat was shaped like a drawn sharp sword, yet also resembled a swirling nebula; it was the life-bound flying Magic Treasure that Lin Wan had personally crafted using the Artifact Refining techniques from the Five Elements Barrier, combined with the power of his own Dao Seed—the "return to ruins star boat". This boat was not only extremely fast and possessed astonishing defenses, but it also contained some of the profound mysteries of the Five Elements Barrier's Formations, allowing for short-distance void jumps, making it an excellent tool for long journeys.

Lin Wan, dressed in green robes, stood at the bow with his hands behind his back. Liu Ruyan and Chu Qingyao stood on his left and right, both having changed into practical, form-fitting attire, looking heroic and spirited. Lin Jingyun stood behind his parents, carrying the "Starfall Sword" on his back and with the Five Elements Guixu bag hanging at his waist, his eyes bright and full of anticipation.

True Monarch Daoxuan, Peak Master Yue Lingyun, Han Lingtian, Liao Chen, True Monarch Xiaoyun, Fairy Baihua, Shanjun, and other high-level members of the Qingyun Sect and the Anti-Calamity Alliance, along with countless Disciples, gathered at the mountain gate to see them off.

"Lin Wan (Junior Brother Lin / Alliance Leader Lin), take care on your journey!"

"May you achieve victory at the start and shake Tiandu with your might!"

The crowd offered their blessings in unison, their voices shaking the heavens.

Lin Wan nodded slightly to everyone, said no more, and stirred his mind.

"Hum—!"

The return to ruins star boat gave a slight tremor, and the chaotic five-colored light swirled, instantly transforming into a stunning streak of chaotic light that tore through the sky, shooting rapidly towards the north—the direction of the Central Plains—and vanishing at the edge of the horizon in the blink of an eye.

Those who had come to see them off gazed at the horizon for a long time, their hearts filled with both anticipation and worry.

The winds and clouds of the Southern Region had temporarily come to a rest.

Yet in the Central Plains' Tiandu, a greater storm concerning the future landscape of the Five Regions, and even the Luck of this world, was waiting for that "True Monarch Guixu" in green robes with a sword on his back to personally... raise the curtain.

...

Central Plains, Tiandu Mountain.

It was not a single mountain Peak, but a massive mountain range stretching hundreds of thousands of miles, shrouded in endless spiritual mist and immortal clouds, appearing as if it had existed since ancient times. This place was recognized as one of the "Ancestral Veins" of the Tiannan Continent; the richness of its Spiritual Qi and the clarity of its Laws were unrivaled across the Five Regions. Legend had it that in ancient times, True Immortals preached here, and Divine Beasts dwelled here, leaving behind countless legends and ruins.

At the center of the mountain range, five towering, majestic Peaks distributed in a lotus shape, seemingly supporting the heavens and the earth, were the "Five Peaks of Tiandu," which was also the venue for this "Five Regions Dao Discussion Conference." The five Peaks belonged to the five top powers of the Central Plains, and upon them, palaces, pavilions, and waterside structures were scattered like stars in the sky, with treasures radiating light to the heavens, creating a magnificent scene as if immortal palaces had descended upon the mortal world.

There was still half a month until the official start of the conference. However, the outer perimeter of Tiandu Mountain was already bustling with activity. Cloud boats, flying pavilions, spirit birds, and exotic beasts from the Five Regions and various major powers arrived in an endless stream, landing in designated areas according to instructions. For a time, the perimeter of Tiandu Mountain was filled with banners blocking the sun, the auras of experts crisscrossing, and Cultivators of various strange attires and different cultivation schools were visible everywhere, making it look like a super city where Cultivators from the Five Regions gathered.

On this day, above the "Yingxian Platform" on the southern foothills of Tiandu Mountain, which was exclusively for the docking of outside powers.

A streak of chaotic five-colored light arrived leisurely from the southern horizon. Its speed seemed slow, yet it was as if it were shrinking distance into inches; in the blink of an eye, it had reached the space above the Yingxian Platform and slowly began to descend.

It was the "return to ruins star boat" piloted by Lin Wan.

The appearance of the star boat did not cause much of a stir. These days, everyone had long since become accustomed to the rare treasures and flying artifacts from various regions. But when the star boat came to a stop, the cabin door opened, and Lin Wan's figure, dressed in green robes and carrying a sword, appeared in everyone's line of sight, the entire Yingxian Platform suddenly fell silent.

Countless gazes focused simultaneously on that figure. Curiosity, inquiry, scrutiny, wariness, hostility, awe... all sorts of complex emotions intertwined in the air.

"It's him! 'True Monarch Guixu' Lin Wan!"

"That person from the Southern Region? He actually really came? And he arrived so early?"

"So young! He looks to be only in his twenties, is he really as terrifying as the rumors say?"

"Shh! Hush! Don't stare! Didn't you see the two female Cultivators and that youth behind him? It is said that they are his Dao Companion and son... He actually brought his family members with him? Truly... what great confidence!"

"His flying boat... is so strange, I can't tell its grade, but it feels... not simple at all."

Low whispers spread through the crowd. Lin Wan's portrait had long since spread across the Five Regions along with his battle achievements, so his appearance in person naturally attracted great attention.

Lin Wan seemed not to hear the gazes and discussions around him. With a calm expression, he led Liu Ruyan, Chu Qingyao, and Lin Jingyun off the star boat. With a thought, the return to ruins star boat turned into a streak of light and vanished into his sleeve.

Central Plains Cultivators (dressed in the attire of the Da Yan Heaven Sect) responsible for reception had already come forward. Their attitude was neither servile nor overbearing; they checked the invitation, registered the information, and then led the four of them to a set of exquisite, quiet lodgings already arranged on the mountainside of "Yaochi Peak". As the Alliance Leader of the Southern Region Anti-Calamity Alliance and a key focus of this conference, Lin Wan's accommodation was arranged quite well; the environment was secluded, the Spiritual Qi was abundant, and the view was wide, allowing one to overlook a small portion of the Tiandu Mountain scenery.

After settling down, Lin Wan did not immediately enter seclusion or go out. He took his wife and son for a short walk around the lodgings to familiarize themselves with the environment, while also secretly observing the layout, Formations, and the auras of the Cultivators coming and going on this Tiandu Mountain.

He could feel that this Tiandu Mountain was indeed extraordinary. The Earth Vein Qi was as vast as the sea, and the Restrictions and Formations were layered upon one another, aligning with the Heavenly Dao; the power contained within them made even him, who had initially mastered the Five Elements Barrier, feel a trace of shock. Moreover, he could faintly perceive, deep within those five main Peaks, several terrifying auras—vast, profound, and far exceeding the Nascent Soul Stage—slowly rising and falling like sleeping dragons. Those were the Soul Transformation Stage True Monarchs of the Central Plains, or even... existences of an even higher level.

"Truly, it is hidden dragons and crouching tigers," Lin Wan thought to himself. He felt no fear; instead, a strong fighting spirit arose within him. Being in the same place as such opponents and competing in the Dao was the only way to truly test his own Dao and seek a chance for a Breakthrough.

Just as Lin Wan was preparing to return to his lodgings to wait for the conference to begin.

A voice, slightly frivolous yet carrying powerful confidence, came from not far away:

"Yo, I wondered who was making such a big commotion; so it is the 'True Monarch Guixu' from the Southern Region who 'slays evil with one sword' who has arrived. Truly... hearing of someone is not as good as meeting them, and meeting... is even better than the rumors."

Lin Wan turned around and saw several figures walking out from another set of lodgings not far away, heading in their direction.

The person in the lead was a young man wearing crimson gold battle armor. He was tall, handsome, but with spirited eyebrows and eyes, carrying an undisguised arrogance. His cultivation had clearly reached the Peak of the Nascent Soul Middle Stage, and his Foundation was solid, his aura scorching and explosive, with faint dragon-shaped phantoms surrounding his body. Clearly, he cultivated some extremely profound fire-attribute Cultivation Technique and possessed an extraordinary status.

Behind him followed several young Cultivators of equally extraordinary bearing, all at the early or middle Nascent Soul Stage. There were both men and women, dressed in luxurious clothes, and the gazes they directed at Lin Wan and the others carried undisguised curiosity, scrutiny, and a faint trace of... superiority and provocation.

"It is the Saint Son of the Eastern Wasteland's 'Skyfire Sect', Yan Wuji!"

"And the Saint of the 'Lihuo Palace', the Young Lord of 'Fentian Valley'... the top Prodigies of the younger generation of the Eastern Wasteland have almost all arrived!"

"Are they... going to find trouble with 'True Monarch Guixu'?"

The surrounding Cultivators who recognized the identities of this group immediately became excited, whispering and discussing, looking like they were ready to watch a good show.

Yan Wuji led his people to a stop a few zhang away from Lin Wan. His gaze swept over Lin Wan unceremoniously, lingered for a moment on Liu Ruyan and Chu Qingyao, with a flash of amazement and greed in his eyes, and then he looked at Lin Jingyun, the corners of his mouth curling into a sneer of disdain.

"Lin Wan, is it?" Yan Wuji lifted his chin, his tone carrying a condescending air. "I heard you are very impressive in the Southern Region, killing a few useless old trash with one sword and daring to call yourself 'True Monarch', and even starting some 'Anti-Calamity Alliance', self-proclaiming yourself as the Alliance Leader? Tsk tsk, that kind of backwater in the Southern Region really has no decent figures, allowing a frog in a well like you to sit and watch the sky, not knowing the immensity of heaven and earth."

The Eastern Wasteland Prodigies behind him also burst into laughter, their gazes towards Lin Wan filled with mockery.

Liu Ruyan and Chu Qingyao frowned slightly, and Lin Jingyun clenched his fists tightly, a flash of anger in his eyes.

Lin Wan, however, remained calm, merely glancing at Yan Wuji indifferently, as if looking at a noisy insect.

"Who are you?" Lin Wan asked calmly.

"Me?" Yan Wuji seemed somewhat annoyed that Lin Wan did not recognize him, raising his voice by an octave. "This Young Lord is the Young Sect Master of the Eastern Wasteland's Skyfire Sect, Yan Wuji! My father is the Sect Master of the Skyfire Sect, the Soul Transformation Stage True Monarch 'Yandi'!"

He announced his name, expecting to see a look of shock or fear on Lin Wan's face. However, Lin Wan just nodded, still indifferent:

"Oh, so you are the son of Yandi. Has your father not taught you that when you are out and about, you must be polite, especially... when facing someone stronger than you, you must learn to... shut up?"

"You—!" The arrogance on Yan Wuji's face instantly froze, then turned into rage. "Lin Wan! You dare to insult my father?! You are courting death!"

Crimson gold flames erupted from his body, and a scorching, violent, terrifying aura that seemed capable of burning through the eight wildernesses soared into the sky. Faintly, behind him, a massive phantom of a Flame Emperor formed! The surrounding temperature rose sharply, the space distorted, and many onlookers changed color and retreated.

Yan Wuji actually dared to directly attack Lin Wan here on Tiandu Mountain, on the eve of the Dao Discussion Conference?!