As Chen Nian's team drew closer to the summit, the spiritual formation protecting them continued to fend off the attacks of the shadow warriors, but its power was beginning to weaken. The fog grew thicker, obscuring their vision, while the mysterious aura emanating from the temple became increasingly oppressive.“This formation won't last much longer,” Zhu Que said, panic creeping into her voice. “We have to reach the temple as soon as possible!”Chen Nian remained calm. “We will. Don't let this pressure make you lose your focus.”Just as they were about to reach the temple gates, a thunderous rumble echoed from within the fog. A massive figure emerged—a gigantic shadow warrior wielding a black sword blazing with crimson energy. It blocked their path, its scarlet eyes radiating hatred.“This... is the final guardian,” Long Bihu said through gritted teeth.“We have no choice but to fight it,” Kang Ye prepared his demonic claws, dark energy surging violently around him.However, Chen Ni

“Everything you're doing is pointless, boy. My power is unmatched!” Yan Tie launched another attack. His golden dragon exhaled blazing flames, releasing a wave of energy that incinerated everything within the corridor. Kang Ye could only create a demonic energy barrier to block the assault, but cracks soon began to spread across his shield.“If you don't die now, you'll suffer!” Yan Tie slammed his staff against the ground, creating a massive shockwave that shook the entire temple. Huge rocks began collapsing from the ceiling, making the situation even worse.At the foot of the mountain, the villagers watched as a tremendous explosion tore apart part of the mountainside. Golden and black lights collided, creating a terrifying spectacle that left them too frightened to even approach.“What kind of beings are fighting up there?” one of the villagers whispered, his eyes wide as he watched the mountain on the verge of collapsing. Yet none of them dared to go near the source of the catastr

Chen Nian gazed into the distance, his eyes filled with determination.“We've been away from the Zetian Sect long enough. Throughout this journey, we've gathered countless resources, techniques, and artifacts. Now it's time to return. With everything we've obtained, we can further strengthen the sect and prepare for even greater threats.”Zhu Que smiled faintly.“At last, I can enjoy some peaceful days back at the sect. But don't forget—we might also be bringing new troubles along with us.”Chen Nian nodded slowly.“I expected that. That's why we must be even more cautious and vigilant. The power we've acquired is bound to attract the attention of many forces.”Kang Ye looked at the crystal sphere he was carrying.“This star map may lead us to another adventure. But before that, we need to make sure our sect is strong enough to support us.”Long Bihu, who had remained mostly silent throughout the conversation, finally spoke.“I agree. Individual strength is important, but the collecti

Shen Wu and his group hurried out of the restaurant, while Chen Nian calmly sat back down as though nothing had happened.Zhu Que grinned as she looked at Chen Nian."You made them run away with their tails between their legs. I almost feel sorry for them."Chen Nian shook his head."People like them never learn. If they show up again, we'll make sure they never cause trouble again."Lihua let out a sigh."Trouble seems to follow us wherever we go."Chen Nian smiled faintly."That's normal. Besides, both of you are exceptionally beautiful. It's only natural that many people become captivated. Let's finish our meal and continue our journey."Meanwhile, Kang Ye, who had not been eating together with Chen Nian because he had gone to buy something, finally arrived at the restaurant. Before he could even step inside, he was startled by the aura leaking from Chen Nian."There must be something going on!" he muttered as he hurried over.At that very moment, he saw several people fleeing in p

That morning, the main hall of the Zetian Sect was filled with dozens of disciples who had gathered to participate in the Core Disciple Selection. Their eyes were filled with determination, knowing that this opportunity was their path to receiving direct guidance from Patriarch Chen Nian, whose name had already echoed throughout the cultivation world.On the platform, Chen Nian stood calmly. Beside him, Zhu Que and Lihua observed the disciples with sharp gazes. Meanwhile, Kang Ye merely leaned against one of the pillars, appearing rather uninterested in the selection.Elder Dong stepped forward and spoke in a firm voice, "This selection is not only to find the strongest, but also those who possess an unbreakable will and intelligence in battle. If you wish to become a core disciple, prove that you are worthy."Chen Nian raised his hand, signaling for silence."This selection will consist of three stages. First, the Innate Talent Test. Second, the Strategy and Combat Test. And finally,